Allegiances

Note: My bad got busy with assignments, Here's chapter 8, Uhh Potential Mass release if I get into the flow of things. Also don't forget to leave reviews if you enjoy reading (5 stars). I want to talk more, but I have nothing else to say. Enjoy Reading....

As Baki boiled with anger, his formidable presence apparent even in his controlled rage, Gin couldn't help but flash a sinister grin. "As strong as you are, my Shinso will pierce your skin," Gin taunted. Baki, though infuriated, wasn't about to let his emotions cloud his judgement. If Gin referred to the blade that had come hurtling toward him during the battle with Byakuya, Baki knew he couldn't afford to underestimate it. Furthermore, the capabilities of Aizen and the peculiar dark-skinned man remained wrapped in mystery.

Summoning all of his self-discipline, Baki managed to quell his rage. His hair fell back down, and his eyes reverted to their previous state. "How about we have a more civil conversation?" Aizen suggested with a smirk. Baki glanced around, not fully convinced, and remarked, "Well, it's not really civil if you still have your swords up." Aizen, maintaining his composure, replied, "Consider it a precaution for security purposes. I hope you understand."

With an air of confidence, Aizen began laying out his plans. Baki found himself indifferent to the fate of the Soul Society and its inhabitants – a sentiment he shared when he chose not to intervene in Rukia's ordeal. Aizen, sensing Baki's lack of reaction, felt a rise of trust towards the intruder.

Baki, cutting to the chase, asked Aizen, "What do you want from me now?" Aizen's mischievous smile hinted at ulterior motives. "You will be very useful in my later plans. For now, I need you to return to the human realm," Aizen declared. He cast a significant glance at Gin and Tosen, prompting them to lower their weapons. "Gin, direct him to the Senkaimon and help him get back to Earth. Tosen, come with me," Aizen ordered, before exiting the room with Tosen in tow.

Left alone with Baki, Gin couldn't help but express his surprise. "That was unexpected, but then again, you are an anomaly," he mused, stroking his chin. After some thought, he signalled for Baki to follow, Gin took off towards the Senkaimon, guiding him through the gate. 

After some time they arrived in the human realm, however this time Baki was aware of where he was. Gin smiled at Baki and opened the gate with his sword and left. Baki looked up at the night sky and took in the air. It felt like he had been away for decades. He jumped up onto a roof, lay down, and began contemplating the different options of where he could go – Orihime's place, Urahara's, or the run-down office where those delinquents stayed. The thought of the run-down office bothered Baki; it wasn't pleasant at all. It would also be weird to visit Orihime, even though he was sure she'd let him in. The only option left that Baki could think of was Kisuke Urahara's shop. After ensuring that his only most reasonable option left was Urahara's shop, he got up and began jumping on roofs towards the shop. When he arrived in the compound, he was about to enter the shop when an individual appeared behind him and put a walking stick to his neck.

Baki was starting to get tired of having weapons pointed at his neck. He very easily grabbed the stick and swung the person holding it over his shoulder. The man broke his fall and jumped back. It was hard to see since it was so dark, yet Baki could make out a hat that looked like the one Urahara wore.

"Kisuke, is that you?" Baki asked. The figure stayed silent for a moment before finally ending the tension by laughing. "It's been almost two days since I've seen you; what have you been up to?" Urahara said. Although Urahara appeared to be joking, Baki could sense the slight seriousness in his tone. Baki knew that most likely, the others who were at the incident had told Urahara what happened, so it was better to tell a partial lie than a complete lie. Baki explained how he entered the gate; however, when he arrived at the Soul Society, Gin told him that the prisoner was of top priority and that there was no reason for them to fight, which made Baki leave. Baki let out a nervous laugh; as strong as he was physically, he wasn't a good liar. Even though it was obvious from Baki's body language, Urahara knew that an intruder into the Seireitei wouldn't be let off so lightly. Although Urahara had his suspicions, he let it go because there wasn't any evidence that Baki was against them.

"Ah, I see. Well, right now Ichigo and the others are training so they can invade the Seireitei. Since you've already been there, maybe you can help," Urahara said. Baki knew Urahara didn't believe the excuse he made; he also knew the reason Urahara chose not to pursue it. "Yeah, that shouldn't be a problem," Baki said. The two both knew that the other was aware of their act but chose to keep it civil for the meantime.

"Well, why don't you start helping us now? Yoruichi, a subordinate of mine, needs help training two people. Do you mind?" Urahara asked. "Right, of course, but why don't you let me rest for today since I just got back," Baki said, playing along. Urahara simply nodded and pointed towards the shop. Baki, who was exhausted from all the events, went inside and called it a day.