Crossover Fan Fiction / Bleach Fan Fiction / Saiyuki Fan Fiction ❯ Aint Nothing But Magick (reverse) ❯ Chapter 37 ( Chapter 37 )

Title: Ain't Nothing But Magick (Reverse)

Authors: J'dee, Mabelle, & Tobias

Rating: NC-17 some chapters, for sexual stuff, but mostly its for the smoking, drinking, and some fowl language.

Genre: Drama / Humor/ Action / Adventure / Romance

Author's Note: ANBM the original was an interactive fic for a 25 + authors in a self insertion in to DBZ/GT anime world…. This is more of the reverse… 25+ anime characters in OUR world…

 

Chapter 37

 

 

The waiting was the part that was killing her. She let out a breath not that she needed to breathe in astral form. She was just feeling a bit more tired; then again it felt like she had been awake forever. The down side to astral was the fatigue it took on the soul and even the body when one woke up.

“Hey honey…” She heard Gojyo's voice glancing up at him.

“Yeah?” She looked at the back of his head as he finally lit his cigarette.

“If you stay like that… how long do you have?” Gojyo questioned.

Ichigo turned to look at her as if he understood and realized. “That's right; your body, it'll die if we don't get you back in time. You don't have anything to replace your missing soul.”

J'dee saw Cloud glancing at her suddenly. “Is this true?”

She smiled and scratched the side of her face. “Well I guess so I think the max amount of time I did on the astral was sixteen hours once… when I came through though… boy did it hurt… everywhere hurt, I couldn't move right for a week.”

Gojyo didn't seem to be looking at her, but his voice displayed his concern. “How long has it been honey?”

J'dee blinked for a moment trying to think. “I don't know… I went to sleep yesterday afternoon I think, then Air came… he depleted the air of the room knocking Kira unconscious. I think that was round about five thirty… maybe.”

Ichigo looked at Cloud seeing him pull the cellphone out checking the time.

“Well?” The teen asked.

“It has been sixteen hours… But what's the time limit?” Cloud questioned.

J'dee blinked for a moment. “Well I think… people in comas have been known to live for years on the right life support.”

“You're not on life support are you beautiful?” J'dee could see Gojyo frown and she suddenly knew what he was thinking… or planning. It would be a brash probably dangerous escape that would involve crossing the path of Air or his minions or even one of the other elementals.

“No.” She knew she wasn't that would mean taking her to a hospital and putting her body out in the open.

“How long do you think you have?” Gojyo asked. “It's strange because I could feel you before, but that aura seems to be fading…”

J'dee bit her lip. “What do you mean, I thought you could only sense-” She stopped remembering Kougyoku's memories that she gained. “Never mind.” She sighed, the woman's spirit had probably merged with hers resulting in a slight hint of a demonic aura, not exactly what she wanted.

“You didn't answer the question honey.” Gojyo commented.

“Three days… maybe… two…”

“It took Roy all night to bring you back from here last time… we'll be cutting it close.” Cloud commented. “Even if we leave now.” He glanced to Kyo's unconscious form. “Especially if we have to carry him all the way.” Cloud added.

J'dee moved towards Kyo. “I wonder if it would work…” She glanced at the other orange haired teen.

“What?” Gojyo asked.

“If I hugged him.”

“What?!” Ichigo covered his mouth quickly after.

“He's a bit young for you beautiful.” Gojyo chuckled.

J'dee grumbled before moving over Kyo and wrapping her arms round him.

 

*POOF!*

 

Gojyo looked over his shoulder and blinked for a moment. “Honey what-?” He blinked. “Hey where'd he go?” He blinked seeing an orange cat amongst the black shirt and pants. “Dude seriously what the hell world is he from and do not send me there.”

“Yeah you'd probably turn into a dog.” Ichigo teased.

“Fuck you carrot top.”

“Oh rich coming from you red.”

J'dee sighed. “Do you to mind?”

“Well that does make transport easier.” Cloud commented. “You're not allergic to cats are you?” He asked glancing at Ichigo, who shot him a flat eyed look.

“Why do I have to carry him?” Ichigo complained.

 

~*~*~*~

 

“Hyakugan Maoh…” Hakkai stood there behind the shield of his chi barrier looking at the demon as he moved.

He could see the smirk and the demon lunged.

“Scatter!” Roy shouted and Hakkai let the barrier drop as they all rolled out of the way and their targets moved.

Hakkai had killed this demon once before for what it had done to Kanan, now he was working for the elementals responsible for killing Kanan's soul to prevent any form of reincarnation that her soul deserved.

Hakkai let his chi float dangerously in his hand. He was stronger now much stronger and he would make the demon pay… again and again every time he saw him no matter how many times these elemental's revived him.

Hyakugan Maoh would pay… Especially since Gojyo was now thrown into the mix. His eyes narrowed dangerously and his hand moved to his ear cuffs. “Gentlemen I will handle this one…”

“What taking off some jewelry gunna do yo?” Reno asked twirling his EMR round before zapping the woman as she lunged at him.

 

Hakkai felt the vibrations pulse through him and he held up his hand the nails seemed to grow instantly into long claws vines that started forming on his cheek began to snake down his neck. His ears stretched becoming the typical demon ears and he held his hand up before flaming it into the ground as the vines made there way across the ground and raced towards Hyakugan Maoh…

 

“Yo what the fuck…?”

Roy sighed. “Let him be Reno we need to break through this lot and move on.”

 

~*~*~*~

 

Belle stared at the sky from her balcony; she made the clouds into shapes. A Chappy Bunny was chasing Kon across the sky.

“You're getting good at that,” Kira whispered from the next balcony and Belle looked at the blond shinigami.

“Thank you,” she said as she stared at the clouds as the wind took them. “It's not your fault Kira. Air jumped you, no one blames you and really the only people whose opinions should matter on this are Toby, J'dee, and me. I know that I don't blame you and J'dee won't either. Toby…probably not after he cools down.”

“I should have expected an attack,” Kira hissed and Belle sighed as she went into her room, closing and locking her balcony door before moving into the living room to trap Kira on his balcony.

“Kira, these are ultimate bad guys, pretty much Aizen level bastards. I don't blame you and you shouldn't blame yourself either,” Belle said and Kira looked own. Belle sighed before slapping the shinigami. “You are Izuru Kira, Lieutenant of Third Division. Gin is a total prick and you are not weak or fragile or frail. You chose to stay and fight with Renji and Hinamori to help save Hisagi. Don't forget who you really are Kira. Aizen and Gin tried to make you doubt yourself but I don't doubt you and I trust you with my life. Don't let them defeat you.” Belle walked away feeling a little guilty as she entered J'dee's room. Zack sat slumped in the chair next to J'dee's body, his chin against his chest as he slept.

“Men,” Belle sighed as she went to J'dee's closet and got a spare blanket to place over Zack's shoulders. “You should sleep in a bed.”

“Need to stay with her,” Zack muttered and Belle shook her head as she moved to sit on the bed next to J'dee, waiting for the rescue teams to contact them.

 

~*~*~*~

 

Tobias hadn't been able to sleep as the others left. He never understood why it was so tortuous waiting for others to return from risking their lives until now. When Misato had woken to leave he'd had to let her go to do so. After the others left he'd stood on the balcony watching them leave. He still stood there, waiting for them to come back.

 

As he watched the sun rise Tobias swore he'd get Kari (or Fire or what ever the hell she called herself) back for this. He hands gripped the railing, making the metal heat up until it turned red. He'd never struck a woman before but Fire was him so she didn't count. Tobias intended to make Fire scream until she begged for him to kill her.

 

And he'd do it with a smile on his face.

 

~*~*~*~

 

Roy let out a breath the battle with the minions had lasted most of the night. They all had looked like they had endured better days.

Luckily near the end Hakkai and Roy had caught on that the fire and Hakkai's chi emitted enough light to drive the minions back. Hakkai was back to his normal human form he'd torn the Hyakugan Maoh demon limb from limb in a manner that was more like a beast than the normally well mannered person Roy had believed Hakkai to be, even so he'd seen worse things in his time during the war.

 

They had moved on and quickly taking a break in one of the hidden and empty rooms in the winding caverns.

Roy was looking over the map with help of the light from Hakkai's chi.

“Yo how far in are we?” Reno looked over lighting a cigarette.

Hisagi stood near the entrance peering out making sure the coast was clear.

“Half way…” Hakkai replied. “Near Earth's domain.” He glanced to Roy for that moment. Two people they cared about the earthy remains all that was left of their deceased souls.

“We can't stop there.” Hisagi stated “When we come back you both can pay your respects.”

“I don't know if I wanna come back yo.” Reno exhaled the smoke before standing up and scratched the back of his head before looking to Roy and Hakkai. You both paid your respects in your worlds you don't need to do it here.”

“Once is enough…” Roy stated. “I know Maes wouldn't want me hanging around at the cost of my life.”

Hakkai nodded. “Same with Kanan… Maybe one day her soul will truly be able to rest. Once Earth and the others are gone.”

 

~*~*~*~

 

Belle was making the clouds into shapes when the door to J'dee's room burst open. Ikkaku and Yumichika stood in the doorway, their eyes quickly landed on Belle.

“You have a creepy `There she is' look in your eyes,” she stated as Ikkaku marched over.

“You need to get ready,” he stated and Belle blinked.

“Ready?” she asked as she raised an eyebrow. Belle had only a moment before she was flung over the shinigami's shoulder like a bag of rice. “What the hell are you doing?”

“You need to train. She'll be fine, it's not like standing over her is going to make her soul come back,” Ikkaku grumbled.

“I know that, I'm still dealing with it emotionally!” Belle hissed as she struggled, finding Ikkaku's grip on her legs was pretty strong. “What brought this on?”

“I told them to train you. We've lost one of you, we can't afford to lose another,” Zack said and Belle glared at him as Ikkaku carried her out of the room.

“Watch your back Zack Fair, I'm going to freeze it when you least expect it,” Belle growled as she was dragged out of the apartment.

Ikkaku carried Belle to the small pond where she had been training. He dropped her on her feet and let her see Hugue, Ed, Al, Goku, Kenpachi, Armstrong, and Renji already there.

“You could have just asked,” Belle stated and Ikkaku snorted.

“Not as much fun,” he chuckled.

“Fine, but Al doesn't fight,” Belle ordered.

“I can do it Mo-Belle,” Al said and Belle gave him a look. “Ed and I are just going to throw things at you.”

“Fine,” Belle sighed as she held her arm out to the side and created her ice sword. “Let's get to work.”

Ikkaku and Renji rushed her as she threw herself back into the pond.

 

~*~*~*~

 

“Hungry?” Jim asked. Tobias shook his head, still staring off into the horizon. Jim sighed and set the breakfast plate he'd brought Tobias on the small table on the balcony. Jim glanced at Tobias and shook his head when he saw the section of railing under Tobias's hands was red hot. “Belle is going to be angry if she doesn't get her security deposit back because of you.”

 

“Huh?” Tobias said, blinking and glancing at Jim. Jim gestured at Tobias's hands. Tobias looked down at them and blinked at what he saw. “Shit!”

 

“I guess there's no need to ask if you're upset.” Jim said, pulling the small lawn chairs out of the corner where Misato and Tobias had shoved them last night so they could sleep comfortably in their sleeping bag. He set one on either side of Tobias and sat in one himself.

 

“No need.” Tobias said with a sigh, taking a deep breath. The heat around Tobias faded and he sat down in the other chair.

 

“They'll be okay. Gene, Misato, and Aisha know what they're doing. And you sent Mel with them too. She'll keep them grounded, so to speak.” Jim assured Tobias. Tobias grunted and picked up the plate form the table.

 

“Doesn't stop me from worrying though.” Tobias said, digging into his breakfast. Jim chuckled.

 

“And what would, oh great elemental?”

 

“That bitch Fire's throat in my hands.”

 

“That'd be nice.” Jim agreed.

 

~*~*~*~

 

J'dee lent on Cloud as he helped her move through the passageway. It seemed the minions had vacated the area. She looked over her shoulder at Gojyo walking behind them the taller red head taking up the rear his weapon drawn and ready.

“I'm sorry…”

“Honey you should be saying `fuck you asshole' to Air not sorry to us.” Gojyo chuckled.

“We could have looked for Sanzo and Vincent.” J'dee stated “So I'm sorry.”

Gojyo huffed. “The monk can take care of himself.”

“Likewise to Vincent.” Cloud added. “Besides I don't think Water would let us find them that easy.”

 

~*~*~*~

 

“Are you sure this is the spot?”

 

“For the last time, yes!”

 

“Well you're not exactly known for ending up in the right spot Misato.”

 

“Watch it Starwind, or I might finish today with a new Gene shaped scratching post for Aisha.” Misato snarled, watching Aisha heft a large boulder out of the cave entrance. Aisha tossed it down the hill, ignoring the destruction it made as it smashed and began rolling away.

 

“Okay according to this we go about fifty feet in before we hit a Y-intersection, then we go left.” Misato said, consulting their map. Gene pulled his caster gun out and slammed a #5 shell in.

 

“Let's do this.” He snarled, leading the way in.

 

~*~*~*~

 

Air crouched in the cavern above watching the group pass below him and he smirked. The girl was weakening, which was always a good sign. He watched the blonde pause for a moment to catch her before she stumbled.

The half breed mumbled something in complaint at not being able to see to help. While the teenager had the cat slung over his shoulder, the clothes draped over his arm, complaining about the fur.

Air was pissed off. Even more so like Earth wanted him to fail, she had called for Sephiroth last night in the middle of the silver haired General chasing Cloud down, like the puppet he was he had returned to her side.

“Guess I will have to do this myself.”

 

~*~*~*~

 

Water sat in his throne watching the water show images of the woman fighting. She was getting better, calling upon the memories of their parts to help her become a better warrior. Still, her body was not used to the strain while Water had been training for millennia. It was amusing to see how she was desperately trying to prepare for their final battle.

A shadow minion appeared and Water turned his head to the creature. It was frantic and he gave it a look for a moment before sighing.

“What is so important?” he asked and the minion hissed. “So we have guests. Let me see.” With a wave of his hand the woman was gone and in front of him was a small group of four. The pathetic water soul with red hair he had brought to this world, the alchemic warrior who controlled fire, the monk's taller demon pet, and one of the shinigami warriors. It was clear that they were in the caves and that they were searching rather quickly for some of the hostages. The rescue party was small until another shadow minion appeared and with a wave of his hand Fire's target's allies were moving through the upper caves.

“Hmmm a rescue attempt,” Water muttered as he realized something. “Clever worms, they purposely left the girl and Fire's man behind. I should give them more credit.” The shadows hissed and tugged at Water's suit pants. “Do nothing about them. Alert me if they get too close to my chamber. Fire will find them eventually if they get too close to her chambers and Air is playing with his toys at the moment. Earth doesn't need to know about our affairs.”

 

~*~*~*~

 

“Hmmmm…this was unexpected.” Fire mused, watching Gene, Aisha, Melfina, and Misato make their way into the caves. “I expected the boy to be with them, but no matter.”

 

Fire hummed to herself as she turned away from the image in the ring of fire. She made her way from her private quarters where her room holding her prisoners and other equipment was. She flashed a smirk at Shinji, who glared at her from the chair he was bound too. Moving past him without a word, Fire approached the five tanks. Only four of them were needed, but her fifth prisoner was so dangerous she needed to be in a suppression tank. Unlike the others, she was conscious, a testament to her prisoners remarkable will.

 

“Well my dear Washu, they're coming for you, finally. A pity the boy isn't. I'd have liked to be complete myself today but no matter. I do so enjoy watching one of my former mistresses bow before me rather then the other way around.” Fire cooed. Washu smirked at Fire.

 

“Oh I remember all too well myself, Fire dear.” Washu sneered. “I personally can't wait until Tobias becomes whole again. If I know him as well I do you won't even have an effect on him, why you'd be lucky if he doesn't completely erase you from existence.”

 

Fire paled at the thought of being erased. She snarled and slammed her hand on the red button of the tank console. Washu screamed as an electrical current coursed through the fluid in the tank. Fire held it for a minute before letting go. Washu fell to her knees in the tank, unable to stop herself.

 

“I think I'll let you go when I capture the others, Mistress.” Fire hissed. Washu raised her weary eyes to face her captor. “I wonder how Tobias will react when he learns I've killed Shinji in front of Misato before killing her shortly after?”

 

Washu's eyes widen as Fire cackled evilly moving to stand by Shinji. Fire pressed the intercom on the desk next to Shinji.

 

“We need to prepare for some guests.” She ordered

 

“Yes ma'am.”

 

~*~*~*~

 

“Shhh!” Hakkai held up his hand as he heard voices in the distance.

Reno stopped mid sentence. “Don't shush me yo.”

Hisagi rolled his eyes.

Hakkai knew that voice, how could he forget that arguing voice.

“Listen.” He stated.

 

“I don't want to carry the stupid cat! I'd rather carry her.”

“Like hell I'm letting you near her!”

“Would you two keep it down!”

 

“Gojyo!”

“Ichigo!”

“Cloud!”

 

Hakkai looked to Hisagi and Reno before he nodded.

Roy nodded. “That means if they escaped J'dee must have to.”

“So we just grab `em all and go then!” Reno raced forward.

“Reno wait!”

 

~*~*~*~

 

J'dee had her hands over her ears and Cloud shot her an apologetic look. “I'm sorry for shouting in your ear.”

“It's okay… you should hear Gojyo with Goku then it's a headache.”

“Oiy oiy oiy I may not be able to see you honey but I can damn well hear you.” Gojyo complained from behind.

J'dee paused for the moment feeling the direction of the air in the cavern shift and she shivered. “Shit…”

“What?” Ichigo looked at her.

“Fooooooooooooooooooooooooooound you!”

 

There was a giant blast of air directly in the middle of the small group sending them back in four different directions.

J'dee glanced up seeing the air was circulating around her, a shadow minion had caught Kyo in his cat form before sinking into the shadows of the wall.

“KYO!”

 

~*~*~*~

 

Water smirked as he watched Air's group rushing through the tunnels and he laughed when Air stole the cat from them. It was rather amusing, better than cable even. He felt a slight disturbance and waved his hand watching as Fire began setting up her attack. He felt rather confident that he could keep the group coming past his chambers from seeing his hostages.

“Which reminds me,” Water muttered as he waved his hand again and he could see the demon using chi to chase away some of the shadow minions. “Hmmm they're moving at a decent pace, they may make it here shortly. I suppose I better hide you four.” Water turned to look at his four tubes. The monk was writhing in his tube, trapped in his constant defilement nightmare. The plant was fetal and the vampire was catatonic. The alchemist's hands were fisting and relaxing as if he were planning to punch his way free of his nightmare.

Water held up his hand and the water from the pool became a wall of ice hiding the tubes behind it, creating an intricate throne. With a few more waves of his hand the entire chamber was filled with ice, making it seem like a simple throne room, not at all the prison it actually was. Water looked at his true throne and smirked as he allowed the water from the pool to suck the throne into its depths before he moved to sit on his throne and wait for his guests.

 

~*~*~*~

 

Air let out a smirk, his hand slipping round J'dee's neck making her gasp for a moment before shooting him a glance. She could feel the air contracting around them turning to ice. She glanced over seeing Gojyo, Cloud and Ichigo drop to their knees as the air was sucked out of the cavern.

“No… you… don't…”

Her hand slammed up against the inside of the tornado Air had formed round them.

She watched the skull shape shoot out from in dust form that had been whipped up in the fury.

“Ichi…go… stand up… please.”

She saw him look up seeing the skull shape flying towards him and he stood up taking the impact of the dust separating his Shinigami form from his body. He drew his blade before charging towards Air.

“Let her go!”

 

~*~*~*~

 

“I don't like this.” Melfina said. They were around the corner from the door that led to Fire's domain. An eerie red glow came from around the room.

 

“What do you mean?” Gene asked as he edge to the corner and peeked around. The hall looked safe and he could see an open door into Fire's domain.

 

“It's too easy.” Melfina said. “No one has tried to stop us at all. You'd think these halls would be crawling with their minions, but so far nothing.”

 

“You're just a worry wort, Mel.” Aisha chirped as they made their way around the corner and down the hall.

 

“No, Melfina's right.” Misato agreed. She un-holstered her gun and undid the safety; before pulling back on the slide to put a round in the chamber. “I don't like this.”

 

“As you shouldn't.” a voice came behind them. They whirled around to see five soldiers in heavy body armor. He gestured with his M16 that was pointed directly at them.

 

“Move. The boss would like to speak with you.”

 

~*~*~*~

 

“Damn, did it just get colder yo?” Reno asked and Roy felt his head ache.

“Yes, we must be getting deeper,” Hakkai stated as he held up a ball of chi to light the way.

“The tunnel continues, but there is a chamber to our right,” Hisagi stated.

“Better check the chamber, just in case,” Roy stated and the four entered the room. The chi was suddenly reflected back by the walls. The room was filled with ice.

“Shit yo, this is Water's room,” Reno hissed before they heard clapping. The four men got into ready stances.

“Well done,” Water said as he sat on his throne, his pale blue-grey suit blending in with the color of the ice on the walls. “I'm amazed you made it this far.”

“We are full of surprises,” Hakkai stated as he prepared a chi blast. Water smirked as he pulled his long hair to the base of his skull and tied it there with a ring of ice.

“I suppose I should introduce myself, but you already know who I am and I, frankly, don't care who you are,” Water said raising a hand and water from the pond in the side of the room began to slide out in thick tentacles.

“I hope training with Belle has paid off,” Hisagi sighed as he rushed at the water while Hakkai and Roy focused on Water. Reno reached into his jacket and pulled out a small flask.

“Why me yo?” he lamented before flicking the top to unscrew it and rushing at the nearest tentacle. The Turk ducked and leapt over the tentacle, dropping the flask into it before diving back near the entrance and pulling out his EMR. As flames flew through the air and chi lit up the chamber it was clear that the blood was part of the water as it leaked out of the flask, moving with the tentacle, giving it a pink appearance.

 

~*~*~*~

 

Ichigo hit the wall and he let out a grunt, he saw Gojyo kneeling near where the woman who resembled his mother was, right in front of her like a shield. Ichigo was about to charge in again when Cloud dashed past him.

“Get Aerith out of here!” Buster sword swung around and it met Air's blade.

Ichigo let out a low growl before he looked to where Gojyo was.

“Gojyo grab my body lets move!”

Ichigo raced up to the woman and she looked up at him blinking.

“We can't leave Cloud behind…”

“We don't have a choice right now.” Ichigo glanced at the shadow minions starting to seep out of the walls and he picked her up running Gojyo close behind.

“Dude why am I the one who always end up carrying the punk kids?”

 

~*~*~*~

 

“Reno should we retreat?” Roy asked as he turned another tentacle into vapor, which was making the air thick and hard to breathe. Reno caught on that the others were asking if he was done with Belle's test.

“I though you would never ask yo!” he grinned as he rushed at Water. The man seemed shocked at the cowardly seeming Turk rushing him.

“As if you would be enough to keep me from attacking your friends,” Water laughed as his hand landed on the sheath of a sword hanging from his ice throne.

“I found this technique worked great on Belle,” Reno grinned as he quickly stabbed Water in the neck with the business end of the EMR and sent the highest setting of electricity through the creature. Water's eyes bulged in shock as he began to thrash uncontrollably. The Turk rushed to the door as Roy and Hakkai aimed a joint attack of fire and chi at one wall. The blast caused the wall to collapse as Water twitched on his throne.

 

As Water regained his bodily control he glared at the door, shocked, literally and figuratively at the turn of events. He hadn't expected that, hell; he had never been exposed to electricity before.

“That was a learning experience,” he growled as he turned to look at the collapsed wall. He smirked at what he saw; the little diversion his guests had caused had actually exposed his hostages. If the `rescue' party had watched the wall collapse they would have seen a few more of their companions to rescue. “Well, not a total loss.” Water rubbed his neck, healing it instantly as he looked at the pool. At least Fire wasn't having an easy time either.

 

~*~*~*~

 

“Now what do we have here?” Fire sang. The four of them were pushed into a large room with numerous work stations and numerous tubes along one wall. Shinji was strapped and gagged to a chair next to her as Fire sat on a desk next to him, swinging her feet. She hoped down as they entered. “Four little mice coming into the dragon's den.”

 

“Give me back my Shinji!” Misato demanded as the troops disarmed them and placed their weapons on the desk Fire had been sitting on. Fire ignored Misato and hefted Gene's caster gun.

 

“Oooooo, I always wanted on of these.” Fire said. She popped the caster shell and happily tossed it to Gene who caught it with a sour look. “I don't need those, however.”

 

“Like you can fire a caster without shells.” Gene scoffed. Fire smirked and aimed at the wall opposite the tanks.

 

“Really, so Toby hasn't figured this trick out yet?” Fire said. Gene's caster gun began to light up and Gene stared open mouthed as red energy flowed from Fire's arm in streams to open slot of the shell. The gun slammed closed and Fire pulled the trigger. A huge explosion of red energy shot out of the gun, and hit the stone wall. A good chunk of the wall exploded, the rest was left an oozing, melted red.

 

“Shit.” Gene muttered as Fire turned her back on them to set the gun down. From her tank, Washu's eyes narrowed as she saw Fire set it back on the table. Fire was sweating and had a pained expression on her face. Fire wiped her face before turning around to face the others.

 

“Now that my little mercenaries have caught you, let's have some fun!” Fire said happily. She gestured to the leader who nudged Misato forward. Soon Misato was in front of Shinji, who stared at her with pleading eyes. Misato was about to say something when the leader jammed the butt of his rifle into her stomach. Misato groaned and doubled up and with another hit, this time to the back of her legs, she fell to her knees.

 

“I'm sure you're familiar with that position, Misato.” Fire said, smirking. Misato glared up at her.

 

“Using soldiers, huh? I guess that means your so called friends don't trust you with their little minions.” Misato snarled.

 

“Oh no, nothing like that.” Fire said cheerfully. “I can still use them but where is the fun in that? A few spells from the black bible, and presto change-o, five soldiers at my beck and call. Minus those pesky souls of course, they had to be destroyed.”

 

“You bitch!” Melfina shrieked, startling the others. Fire shrieked with laughter.

 

“Now, now, Mel, no need to be rude. I'll deal with you later, but for right now I think I'm going to re-enact one of my favorite scenes from End of Evangelion. But with a slight re-write.” Fire said. She nodded towards the soldier behind Misato. “Begin.”

 

“Yes ma'am.” He responded in a monotone. He moved around Misato to stand by Shinji. He set his rifle aside before pulling his pistol out. He placed the tip against Shinji's head, before speaking.

 

“Third Child found, commencing termination.” A pause. “Sorry kid, nothing personal.”

 

“SHINJI!”

BANG!

 

~*~*~*~

 

J'dee could feel it the moment the minions seemed to consume Cloud, the air seemed to freeze for that moment making her astral body shiver she couldn't feel the cold like she was used to but it was a different kind of chill one that froze the soul.

“Cloud.” She whispered.

She glanced up seeing Gojyo's face serious. “Well if we get you me and the kid outta here he won't be doing too much honey. I think that was blondies plan to buy us some time.”

 

“Hey ahead…” Ichigo interrupted them. He saw Hisagi and was glad to see a familiar face.

“Well I'll be.” Gojyo seemed to smirk as they came to a halt in front of the group.

“Good to see you guys are alright yo. Well the ones that I can see and all.”

“Trust me I wanna see her right now too…” Gojyo grinned.

Ichigo's foot connected with Gojyo's lower back. “Don't talk like that!”

“Oiy don't kick the guy whose got your body right here!”

 

J'dee let out a breath before smiling. “Well regardless we better keep moving I'm feeling mighty tired right now.”

Hakkai nodded before glancing at Gojyo. “It's good to see you're alright.”

Gojyo let out a breath before shoving another cigarette in his mouth and lighting it. “Yeah you too Hakkai.” His nose twitched for a moment as he took a drag of the cigarette. “And dude you better have some decent smokes when we get back.”

Hakkai smiled. “I can pick some up for you later. But isn't that your brand?”

“Water logged smokes are gross no matter what the brand.” J'dee chuckled.

 

~*~*~*~

Belle sighed as she stared at the phone, nothing yet, she looked at her cell phone, nothing there either.

“Staring at them ain't gonna make them contact you,” Grimmjow called from the couch and Belle glared at him over her shoulder.

“Ed four squares and a circle now,” she replied and Ed quickly did it, causing Goku to blast Vegeta into the ground.

“Hey! No fair!” Grimmjow cried and Ed laughed in victory.

“They will succeed,” a soft voice said and Belle looked up at Kira. He moved to sit across from her. “I may not have faith in myself, but I have faith in Shuuhei.”

“I needed to hear that,” Belle said as she stared at the phone again. “I just can't help but worry. They are up against those monsters.”

“The hardest thing we can do is stay behind in battle,” Kira said as his hand landed on Belle's covering her cell phone. “You need to do something constructive, should I get a sparing group together?”

“No, I've had quite all the training I can take today, I guess I'll go in with Zack, he's attached to J'dee by the hands now,” Belle sighed as she got up, squeezing Kira's hand. “Thank you. I did really need to hear that.” With that Belle walked down the hall tapping on the door before entering. Zack was sitting staring at J'dee and Belle sat on the bed next to her friend.

“Any word yet?” Zack asked and Belle shook her head.

“Nothing, still, it took a bit to get them out before, we have to give them time,” Belle sighed as she stared at the phone in her hand before placing her other hand on top of where Zack clutched J'dee's hand. Belle turned her attention out the window where the setting sun was turning the sky a bloody red.

 

~*~*~*~

 

Air walked into Water's area his shadow minions dragging an unconscious Cloud.

“If you haven't noticed the girl didn't come with them. If this lot succeeds in getting out, they'll try to comeback for the others without the girls again. I don't want that and I don't think you do either.”

Water glanced at Air his brow quirked. “Are you asking for my help?”

Air shifted with a grumble, he was uncomfortable enough right now, he'd been close so close, and then they showed up. “Yea… guess I am.”

“Then I guess we better stop them.”

Air let out another breath. He didn't get why Water was so calm right now, but if anything at least Water would have some idea on how to prevent the group from getting out.

 

~*~*~*~

 

“Follow me,” Water said as he moved through as vapor as Air followed, they came to a tight spot in the tunnels back to the surface, a bottleneck of sorts. He smirked as he looked at the area as he became visible.

“Here?” Air asked as he looked around. “I was hoping you had a better spot picked out.”

“It will be fine. Once they get through that chamber I'll seal that entry with ice, they won't see it,” Water said with a grin and a look at Air. Air's face broke into a smile as he looked at the narrow exit tunnel.

“That's not bad,” Air grinned with sadistic glee.

“We will wait till they pass through there, then I'll seal the exit. You can have your way with them,” Water stated. “I'll make sure they play nice and don't try to get back, even if I've already taken care of the exit.”

“I like that,” Air laughed and Water smirked.

“I thought you might,” he said. “We better go invisible to them. I think I hear them coming.”

 

~*~*~*~

 

Fire really should have kept Misato farther away. Just before the soldier pulled the trigger, Misato lunged, tackling him about the knees. They went crashing back, the shot going wild.

 

“Kill them!” Fire shrieked, disappearing in a plume of flames. Aisha whirled around in an instant, claws swiping at the other four soldiers. They had to duck out of the way, but that bought the others enough time to dive towards the desk with their weapons. They grabbed their weapons, and dove behind the desk, Aisha ignoring the weapons in favor of grabbing Shinji and pulling him behind with them, chair and all. Gene upturned the huge metal desk giving them solid cover. He turned to check on Misato and what he heard chilled him.

 

“Hey, none taken.” Misato whispered in a snarled as she shot the brainwashed man in the face with the gun she'd taken from him during the struggle. Then she scurried over, snatching the man's M16 as she dropped down with them.

 

“Bitch is hardcore.” Gene muttered, raising his head up to peak over. He ducked back down as gunfire roared at him, impacting the desk and shooting over him. He glanced at others. Aisha was cutting Shinji free with her claws, while Melfina watched. Misato was gazing at the tubes of Fire's prisoners.

 

“We have to get them out.” Misato said.

 

“Easier said then done.” Gene muttered as bullets continued to pound on the desk. “They're alternating fire which means whenever one reloads the others are still firing. They can keep us pined down long enough to break threw the desk and then we're dead.”

 

“Damn.” Misato muttered. She raised the M16 over the top with her hands and fired wildly. The gunfire fun halted for a moment before resuming. “I doubt I got any.”

 

“No but it give me an idea.” Gene said. He picked up his caster and pulled shell from his belt. Melfina's eyes widened as she saw which one he slammed in.

 

“No Gene, not a #9!” she cried, but it was too late. Gene jumped up and pulled the trigger. An explosion of wind shot out from the caster, throwing heavy furniture into the soldiers. The men cried out as they were slammed into the cave walls and then pinned down by the weight of the debris. Gene grinned smugly before falling to his knees as his energy was out of him by the spell's backlash.

 

~*~*~*~

 

Gojyo let out a breath. “Dude…” He stopped seeing his breath come out white.

“I know Gojyo… keep moving.” J'dee whispered leaning on Ichigo.

Hakkai looked back. “You okay miss J'dee?”

“Just keep moving.” Roy stated.

Reno huffed. “Easy for you to say you can do whatever that snappy thing you do is and keep yourself warm yo.”

 

“Whine whine whine… you complain to much red.” Air's voice seemed to echo through the walls.

 

Ichigo reached for his sword. “Doesn't this guy ever quit?”

Air landed right in front of him. Ichigo stepped in front of J'dee.

“There are more of us this time dude.” Gojyo stated.

Air smirked. “That's what you think…”

 

Water appeared out of the darkness with an unsheathed sword in his hand. “This is hardly a fair fight.” The elemental snapped his fingers and Roy's gloves were soaked instantly. “That levels the playing field a bit.” He looked at J'dee. “Don't you think, Girl?”

J'dee found herself staring for a moment blinking. “That's not good...”

Ichigo glanced from Air to Water and back again. “Damnit both you guys.”
Gojyo spun the jakujou around letting the blade separate and spin towards Air.
Air phased away, the blade moving towards Ichigo.
Ichigo barely dodging the blade shot Gojyo a look. “Hey watch it! You know who's behind me right?” He snapped glancing at J'dee who was still looking at Water.

    

Reno looked from one elemental to the other. “Shit yo, the party just got bigger.”

“Roy, can you fight?” Hakkai asked keeping his voice low and calm.

Roy looked to Hakkai words passed through the exchange of looks alone.
Hisagi motioned quickly. “Reno, help deal with Water, you're his soul type.”
Reno raised a brow. “What? He nearly killed me last time.”

Water looked at J'dee. “I have to say, I'm disappointed. I thought your little friend would lead this rescue party.”

J'dee blinked realizing Water could “see” her. “She's not stupid; she would have if she didn't know you were waiting for her...” She stated looking round before stepping back.

Gojyo let the blade clink back into place before looking round for Air glaring at the slightest shadow movement.
Ichigo glanced at Water in surprise noticing him looking directly past him at J'dee. “Damnit I think he can see her.”
Gojyo frowned. “Oh dude that is not fair...”
J'dee wrapped Ichigo's jacket round her frowning in Gojyo's direction.

Air reappeared behind Hakkai summoning his sword.

“No you don't!” Hakkai dodged before firing a chi blast.
Hisagi drew Kazeshini out from his sheath. “Just fight Gojyo.”
Reno moved towards Water. “This ain't gonna be fun yo.” He stated swinging his EMR.

Water's eyes catching J'dee's. “I will admit she is smarter than I gave her credit for, still, she's not going to escape me. I will take her soul and I will be complete.” He smiled as he pointed his sword at Ichigo. “Let her go before I'm forced to harm you, boy.”

Ichigo glared at Water. “And hand her back over... that's not going to happen.” He pushed J'dee further behind him. “Stay behind us... don't let them near you.”
J'dee moved to the center and knelt near Ichigo's unconscious form.

Gojyo rolled his eyes at Hisagi. “Yeah yeah” He spun the jakujou around letting the blade fly out again causing Air to phase out dodging the chi and weapon combo.
“'Ch... really... you think that will stop us...” Air reappeared standing in front of a wall, holding up his hand he let the gust of wind swirl round his fingers. The wind swirled in a constant circle and he flung the enlarging tornado like wind towards Hakkai and Gojyo.

 

“Reap Kazeshini! Hisagi held his transformed zanpakto. “Don't think that will stop me!” He flung one of Kazeshini's blades through the tornado at Air.
Reno smirked. “You won't be hurting anyone Water.
“Reno watch out!” Roy began drawing a circle on the ground.
 

Water looked at Ichigo's body. “It's so amusing how you fight us, the two elements you are so indebted to. Without Air you could not breathe and without Water you cannot exist. You should bow down to us before we make you.” He raised his sword in challenge.

Air dodged the blade from Kazeshini. His attention flickering to Hisagi as the tornado seemed to spin out of control at the distraction.
Gojyo pushed Hakkai down as the tornado spun and over them into the opposite wall. “Dude...” Gojyo looked at Hakkai, “seems he's got J'dee's attention span...”
J'dee glanced at Gojyo with flat eyes. “I heard that...”

Ichigo glared for a moment before pointing his blade at Water. “You would willingly destroy their lives and any that get in your way. You don't deserve respect.” He charged at Water swinging Zangetsu round aiming for Water's stomach.

Reno stepped back watching the two. “You can take him yo.”
Roy shot Reno a look. “Make sure they're distracted.”
“Gojyo you should not talk.” Hakkai fired a few small chi blasts at Air.
Hisagi pulled Kazeshini's chain pulling the blade back to his hand. “Don't let up on him.”

Water used his sword to shove Zangetsu to the side before kicking Ichigo in the chest, sending him flying to the ground next to J'dee and his body.

“Destroy, whatever gave you that idea? We are going to become one, a complete Elemental. These women will be the key to us becoming the closest thing to Gods that you have ever seen. They won't be dead, just a part of something greater. Us.”
“You're destroying their lives... shouldn't they be able to choose what they want. I don't think they want to become one with you otherwise.” Ichigo stated standing up moving his hand to his forehead.

J'dee looked up seeing Air smirk at her. The look drove a chill through her astral body if even for a moment. She looked round and she could feel the very air being sucked from the cavern they were in.
Gojyo jumped up picking up his jakujou and his hand moved to his throat before glancing at Air. “Dude you better not be...”
“Some of you might start feeling a little light headed...” Air held up his hand showing a reverse of the tornado sucking in the air pulling it between his fingers.
“Shit.” J'dee looked round before trying to counter Air's move, summoning her strength pulling the air back to the others trying to keep the air circulating round the group.
Reno blinked. “That's not good yo.”
“Gojyo deep breaths keep fighting!” Hakkai looked at Gojyo who was trying to suck in a breath.
Hisagi flung Kazeshini at Air again.
Roy started to add the lines to the circle in the ground.

Water looked at Air with a roll of the eyes. “Really, you should have done this from the beginning.” He then glanced at Ichigo. “We are going to become one anyway. Why do you think they look like your beloved dead? Simple we were destined to become one entity. Just look at Air and this woman, can't you see the similarity in their faces? We are each other, we just want to be one sooner rather than later and we want to be in control.” He smirked at Ichigo.
Air huffed. “Yeah yeah I would if they hadn't kept hiding like rats in a hole....” He dodged Hisagi's attack again before phasing behind him holding up the small ball of collected air.

J'dee trying to counter the move still, `This is not good I don't have the strength to keep this up sixteen hours without a physical body to draw strength from, now I know how those dead guys feel when they're trying to contact me.' She let out a breath feeling the control of the air sucking at her reaming strength.

Gojyo nodded his head at Hakkai before taking a deep breath. “Yeah... gotcha.” He charged at air swinging the jakujou round.
Air chuckled before phasing out again.
Gojyo growled. “Oiy you piece of shit stop moving!”

Ichigo looked at J'dee for the moment then back to water. “That gives you no right to take their lives!” He let the energy round him flicker as he begun to form the hollow mask.
Reno looked at the swirl of white forming round Ichigo's hand. “That is some freaky shit yo.”

Roy called out quickly. “J'dee use this!” He placed his hand on the circle causing a transmutation of carbon dioxide to turn into carbon-dust and oxygen.
Hisagi shouted as Air swooped in to attack. “Watch your backs!”

Gojyo hit the ground just as a blast of air knocked the wall causing some debris to scatter around them.

Hakkai glanced at Gojyo seeing his friend starting to look pissed. “He's too fast.”

“No shit since when as air been slow…” He paused and looked at Hakkai. “That was Rhetorical don't answer that!”

Hakkai merely smiled. “I wasn't going to say anything.”

“Yeah right.” Gojyo rolled his eyes but smiled none the less.

Water watched Ichigo. “Take their lives, oh no, you see, they're going to give their lives. At least mine is.” He looked up at Air for a moment before smiling at Ichigo. “You see, we have people very important to them and if they don't give us their lives, we'll kill those they love.” He then looked at J'dee. “Do you get where I'm going with this monologue?”
J'dee placed her hand on the ground using the oxygen and the ball to reverse the air into filling the cavern area with breathable air. “What?” She glanced over her shoulder at Water freezing for a moment. “That- That's not fair!”
Air phased in front of her grabbing her by the throat and lifting her off the ground. “What make you think you have a choice? Either you die or they die.”
J'dee's hand moved over Air's wrist as his hand squeezed round her throat.
Ichigo eyes wide before shouting at Air. “Let her go!”

Hisagi using his shunpo landed next to them, instantly slicing at Air's arm with Kazeshini.
Hakkai stood up “Miss J'dee!”

Gojyo blinked for a moment looking in that direction seeing the outline of J'dee's form and the collection of feathers that fell from around the two of them.
“Fuck yo, that's evil.” Reno looked on.
Water scoffed. “Fair? We're not playing children's games.” He looked at Air. “Hurry up, we don't have all night. I would like to work on my completion at some point.”
Air glared at Hisagi the air knitting up the gash in his arm. Before he dragged more air into his hand; draining the very breathing air from the cavern at an increased rate.

J'dee was on the ground glancing up at air.
Gojyo attempted to take a deep breath. He blinked for a moment seeing J'dee's form slowly become visible to his eyes. “Fuck...” He raced in grabbing J'dee and pulling her back.
J'dee looked at Gojyo pulling her away. “Gojyo save your strength...”
Air looked at J'dee. “Do you know why you're alive you're alive for one reason only... because I wished...”

There was a sudden flash of fire shooting round Air before Kougaiji phased behind Air holding his hand up the flames moving to Air's capture air, consuming in and moving toward his hand.

 

“Not so fast...” Kougaiji stated the white open jacket flapping about in the gust of wind, his purple eyes narrowed as his hair seemed to settle as the rush of air seemed to die out.

Air let the ball of air drop before the fire consumed his hand. He glared at Kougaiji over his shoulder.
Reno grinned. “Reinforcements yo!”
Roy crouched to where J'dee and Gojyo were. “J'dee are you alright?!”

J'dee nodded her head slowly. “I'm okay... just tired...”
Hisagi moved to stand between J'dee and Air.

Hakkai moved next to Hisagi.

Water looked at Kougaiji. “The demon prince? Didn't we threaten him with the trio in the deep caves?”
Air frowned. “We did. Obviously he's not co-operating very well...”
Kougaiji looked from one to the other again his eyes narrowed pulling his hands back to the side. “She promised me her help I prefer it if that promise was kept.”

Ichigo helped J'dee to stand up just as he heard Kougaiji start muttering a chant falling from his lips. “What's he saying?

J'dee raised a brow for a moment before looking at Kougaiji seeing the swirling of fire between his hands.
“On san maya sato maei sowakaonsharei jawamei unhatta... KAI! ENGOKUKI!”

Gojyo looked at Hakkai. “Oh shit... MOVE!”

The fire shot free from Kougaiji's hand and there was a rumble of fire shooting through the caves.

Reno was instantly running away.
Hakkai looked ahead at where Reno was already way ahead of them and sighed. “Why did Belle choose him?”

“Dude it was probably to get him out of the apartment and to stop hitting on her.” Gojyo snickered.
Hisagi grabbed Ichigo's body. “Run!”

Water looked back at the rumble. “That is a very bad noise Air.”
Air frowned. “Damnit.” He glared at Kougaiji. “You'll never get your friends back siding with them!”
Kougaiji scoffed his expression never changing. “I trust the witch will be able to reverse what you did to them... if not then she will answer to me later.”

“Lets go!” Ichigo picked J'dee up and running.

Engokuki burst through the caves behind Air and Water.
    

“I think we need to move faster...” J'dee looked back at Kougaiji standing there glaring at the two of them as the smoke suddenly blocked their view and the large roar of the hell fiend was heard.

Gojyo running just behind the group of them. “Keep moving before the ceiling collapses!”
Ichigo looked over his shoulder. “What was that thing?”
J'dee sighed. “Kougaiji's major summon... he doesn't seem to care for enclosed spaces much… regardless of it nearly killing us in the process, it means the separation between our worlds has thinned if he can summon him here...”
Hakkai looked to Gojyo. “That is not good; we're running out of time in too many ways.”
Hisagi looked at Ichigo hefting his body slightly. “Ichigo, you need to lose a few pounds.” He stated while carrying Ichigo's body over his shoulder.

Reno called back at them from way up ahead. “Couldn't he have given us more warning yo!”
Roy glared up ahead. “Shut up Reno.”

 

Ichigo shook his head. “Yeah yeah just get us out of here and I'll look after my own body....”
Gojyo shot Reno a glare. “Duuuude as if hair do would give US any warning....” Gojyo spotted the light in the distance before pointing. “Lets just get the fuck out of here....” Gojyo glanced at Hakkai grinning. “Still point to us... Air can't do jack shit now...”
J'dee shot Gojyo a look. “Gojyo don't jinx us...”

    
Water looked at the fiend made completely of fire. “Well, that's something one doesn't see everyday. I guess the worlds are almost ready to collide. Earth is going to be annoyed.” He sighed before looking at Kougaiji. “I will personally drain every last drop of blood from your companions for this.” He turned to Air. “A strategic retreat is necessary now. I will see you back in the main cave.” He turned to mist before vanishing.
Kougaiji stepped past Air Engokuki roaring from behind them. “Your move.”
Air glared at Kougaiji. “I will back Water up on that threat prince.”
Kougaiji scoffed. “'Ch then you will fail.”
“If you're here what makes you think you can protect her...” Air motioned his hand sending a cluster of shadow minions out before vanishing in a swirl of wind.
Kougaiji scoffed again. “'Ch.” The demon prince phasing out of the cavern.
    

~*~*~*~

 

“I'm alright Mel.” Gene wheezed, as Melfina slung his arm around her shoulders, helping her boyfriend to his feet.

 

“There's a reason why those are last resort shells, Gene.” Melfina scolded. Gene chuckled.

 

“And this wasn't a last resort?” Gene snickered but Melfina just rolled her eyes. Aisha smirked from where she stood with an exhausted Shinji cradled in her arms.

 

“Give a few minutes and we'll figure out how to get you guys out.” Misato said to Washu as she looked over the control panel on Washu's tank.

 

“You don't have the time!” Washu snapped, startling Misato. “Fire will be back soon, so you have to go now!”

 

“We're not leaving you!” Misato retorted.

 

“You have to, I'll be fine. But Gene!” Washu called, making the tired man look up. “But when Fire used your caster she drained herself. I have no idea for how long but she looked exhausted.”

 

“But what does that mean?” Gene wondered.

 

“I'm not sure but you need to go, go now!” Washu shouted, and the room shook as explosions rang out.

 

“But-!”

 

“I can take care of myself and Fire doesn't dare kill me! She'd be allowing me to become a goddess again!”

 

“Washu knows Fire from before.” Shinji said hoarsely from Aisha's arms. “She knows what she's doing.” Misato bit her lip.

 

“We'll be back, I promise.” Misato assured. Washu smiled.

 

“I know, now run!”

 

They ran.

 

~*~*~*~

 

Hakkai smiled seeing Hakaryuu perched in a tree waiting for them. “I'm glad you waited old friend.”

“Kyuuuu!” Hakaryuu flew down landing on Hakkai's shoulder.

J'dee lent on Ichigo her hand moving to her head.

“Hey are you alright?” Ichigo asked, his hand moving to her forehead.

“I'm tired… that's all really…” J'dee smiled.

Gojyo looked at J'dee. “Dude question how the fuck can we see you right now?”

J'dee smiled. “The demons of this world when enough energy is gathered can make themselves visible to the trained eye. I guess that little attempt to reverse Air's attack did it. Least I think it did. Regardless I may have the energy gathered it doesn't stop me from being tired.”

Gojyo walked in front of her and grinned looking at her. “Hey honey well you can share my bed-”

 

*WHOMP*

 

J'dee blinked for a moment before looking at Ichigo and blinked then looked to Gojyo realizing he was looking directly at her.

J'dee pulled the jacket around herself tighter. “I'm feeling a little exposed right now.”

“Well I'm not complaining yo.” Reno grinned.

Kougaiji phased in front of her pulling off his long jacket and dropping it over her head. “Put that on.”

J'dee looked up at him. “Um thanks.”

 

Gojyo frowned. “Dude just where the hell have you been all this time?”

“I was talking to my brethren of this world… do you have a problem with that?”

“Well we coulda used eyeball sooner ya know?!” Gojyo snapped.

Hakkai stepped in between them. “Now now Gojyo… Did they have anything to say Kougaiji?”

“They did but I will tell you later… We need to move away from here fast… Air has sent his minions out.” Kougaiji looked back to the entrance.

 

The shadows of the entrance to the cave seemed to darken and move a single hand reaching out from the depths before a body seemed to follow.

J'dee blinked seeing the flame like hair the darkened eyes. “No way…”

“What is it?” Hakkai looked over seeing the figure. “Oh my do you know him miss J'dee?”

“Vegeta… I know of him but he doesn't know me…”

 

Gojyo let out a breath pulling out a cigarette lighting it up slinging the jakujou over his shoulder. “They're coming out now we don't have much time and they're faster. They'll follow us all the way back… unless…”

Hakkai shot Gojyo a look. “Don't you dare Gojyo.”

“It's me, orange top and J'dee they're after if they get one, they'll be distracted enough. You made it here twice I have all confidence you'll make it back again Hakkai.” Gojyo walked back towards the entrance. “Just don't let me down.”

Hakkai let out a breath. “Really Gojyo… if you think I'll let you get away with this so easy you have another thing coming…”

“Sorry Hakkai I'll see you later okay?” Gojyo waved over his shoulder. “Besides I'm not that easy to kill you should know that.”

 

J'dee blinked for the moment doing up Kougaiji's white jacket before looked at Gojyo's retreating back. “Gojyo… be safe okay? Because if you die on Hakkai I'm going to revive your ass and let him kill you for dying on him!”

Gojyo nodded his head. “Understood honey. Now stop standing round and get out of here.” With that Gojyo swung his jakujou causing Vegeta to jump back avoiding it vanishing back into the entrance of the cave.

J'dee clutched at the jacket looking before Kougaiji picked her up hefting her over his shoulder. “Oiiiiy hey what's the big idea?! Kougaiji!”

“The Shinigami and I can move faster…” He looked at Hakkai. “Meet you back at the apartment.”

 

~*~*~*~

 

Belle jerked when she heard her phone go off and her head flew up into Zack's chin.

“Ow!” they both cried as they grabbed their injured heads. The phone rang again and both looked at it before Belle scrambled to answer it.

“Hello?” she cried, kicking herself for not looking to see what number was calling.

“Belle, it's us, we have J'dee,” Hisagi said and Belle sobbed.

“Oh thank God, Shuuhei, thank you,” she sobbed for a moment and Zack put a hand on her shoulder. Once she got control of herself she looked at Zack. “Did...did you manage to get anyone else?” There was a pause that had Belle worried that Hisagi had hung up during her crying.

“We managed to meet up with Gojyo, he told us Cloud was free, but we didn't see him,” he said and Belle looked at Zack.

“Cloud got free, he was fighting them, but our group didn't see him. So only Gojyo?” she asked.

“Gojyo stayed to buy us time to escape with J'dee. We did manage to get one more kid for you to mother,” Hisagi said and Belle could hear someone yelling about being called a kid.

“Is that…Ichigo?” Belle asked and Hisagi laughed.

“We got one of Air's sacrifices,” he said and Belle smiled.

“Well we didn't lose anyone, we got back J'dee, and we saved a sacrifice. That has to be a win,” Belle said with a smile.

“We'll be home shortly,” Hisagi said and Belle smiled as she dropped the phone and wept over her friend's body as Zack patted her shoulder.

 

~*~*~*~

 

“Toby?”

 

“Oh thank God.” Tobias said, feeling weak in the knees as he clutched his cell phone. Suzuka and Jim both let out sighs of relief. “Is everyone okay?”

 

“We're all okay, Shinji's a bit malnourished but okay.” Misato said. She hesitated. “We couldn't get Washu and the others though.”

 

Tobias winced.

 

“That's okay, honey. Just come home, you can fill me when everyone's back.”

 

“Already on it.”

 

~*~*~*~

 

Havoc lent on the railing cigarette in mouth, there was a sudden noise and he looked to the side jumping back seeing Kougaiji appear a figure draped over his shoulder wearing his white sleeveless jacket.

“What-?”

 

The sliding door to the balcony opened and Kougaiji stepped through, J'dee's astral form slung over his shoulder.

Zack stood up from where he'd been sitting staring off into space at the wall. “You got her back!”

“She's passed out on the way back; she doesn't seem to travel well… I'll need to find the right spell to fix her spirit chain. Give us some alone time.” With that Kougaiji walked into J'dee's room the door shutting behind him.

Zack let out a breath of relief before looking at Belle and just pulling her into a hug. “You picked a good team Belle.”

“Really they could at least to use the door like a normal person.” Havoc commented from the balcony.

The front door opened. Roy walked through with Ichigo, Hakkai, Reno and Hisagi.

“Miss Belle.” Hakkai smiled. “Next time might I advise you select a better water candidate than Reno.”

“Oiy shut up yo!”

 

 

To Be Continued…