Chapter 4

We've got the ruler of the swamp, the head of the Shiba Clan, and the legendary guardian of the Forbidden Land here, and you still can't beat me?

Ugh, sounds bad when you say it out loud.

Don't worry, we still have him outnumbered.

You guys should run. It's always been my job to take care of things here. I'll handle this somehow.

Don't be crazy. You didn't exactly get out of that scuffle unharmed.

And you won't get away from this unharmed, either!

Gck, !

Chad!

Stop tryin' to be tough and just fall back for now! If he takes the mirror, we're in big trouble.

Rukia, take the boy and get out of here!

Let go of me! I have to help Chad!

I'm just as frustrated as you are, but what good will you do by charging in?

Do you wish to save your friend?

Well, duh! Obviously I do!

Yes, of course. I do know of a way.

However, it is a very dangerous gamble. I can only guess as to whether or not it will succeed.

You are missing half of your powers, correct? And your powers are similar to that of a demon?

That means we could try and make up the other half of your powers with that of a demon's.

But where would we even find a demon right now?

Right here. Isn't that right?

Yes.

But...

None of us know if it will work, but we can't simply sit around and twiddle our thumbs.

Only two outcomes remain if we don't take action. Either the fox wins, or the other rampaging Grotesque takes everything.

Taking the risk is better than lying down and accepting defeat, wouldn't you say? Even if there's the slightest chance my powers can turn the tide, I believe it's worth trying.

So, what will you do? Do be aware, however, that there is a chance you may lose your life.

I... I want power. Do your thing, demon.

Not "demon." I'm Rukia Kuchiki.

Right. And I'm Ichigo Kurosaki. Nice to meet you.

............