Neo Soul King Yhwach

Timeskip - A Day Later: Location: Schatteninsel's Lab

After an intense negotiation, Yhwach successfully convinced Dragon to lend Shiki the necessary resources and support. The Revolutionary Army's influence and finances would bolster Shiki's ambitious plans, ensuring a more substantial impact on the World Government. With these newfound alliances, Shiki's vision began to take on a more formidable shape.

In the heart of Schatteninsel, once known as Thriller Bark, Yhwach and Shiki stood within the island's high-tech lab. The atmosphere was charged with an air of anticipation and purpose. The lab was a blend of advanced technology and the eerie remnants of Gecko Moria's reign, creating an unsettling yet intriguing environment.

Yhwach, with his commanding presence, stood over a table where the Kage Kage no Mi lay. The Devil Fruit had a dark, swirling appearance, almost as if it were absorbing the very light around it. The fruit had recently been ingested by Ethan, a member of the Revolutionary Army, who had unfortunately met his demise at the hands of a World Government spy. Yhwach had swiftly dealt with the traitor, ensuring that the Kage Kage no Mi remained within his grasp.

Shiki watched with interest as Yhwach tossed the Kage Kage no Mi to one of the scientists, signaling for them to take care of it. As the scientist hurriedly secured the Devil Fruit, Shiki turned his attention back to Yhwach, a curious gleam in his eyes.

Shiki: So, is that the Devil Fruit of that super rookie who fought Kaido? What was his name again... ah, it slipped my mind.

Yhwach nodded in confirmation, his expression impassive as he regarded Shiki.

Yhwach: Yes, that is correct. His name was Gecko Moria. He dared to come after me, seeking vengeance for his lost territory. Unfortunately for him, he underestimated my power. His Devil Fruit was later consumed by a member of the Revolutionary Army, a man named Ethan. However, his potential was abruptly cut short by a World Government spy.

Shiki raised an eyebrow in intrigue, his interest piqued by Yhwach's words.

Shiki: So, what happened to the spy? I assume you took care of them?

Yhwach's lips curled into a faint smirk as he responded with a hint of amusement.

Yhwach: Of course. The spy met a fitting end for their betrayal.

Shiki took a sip of his sake, his gaze focused on Yhwach as he listened intently to his next move.

Shiki: Enough about that. Tell me, what's your next move, Dragon Slayer? You don't strike me as a man who'll stay idle for long.

Yhwach's lips curved into a faint smile at Shiki's observation, acknowledging the truth in his words.

Yhwach: You're correct, Shiki. I have no intention of remaining idle. My next move is to travel to Wano.

Shiki's eyebrows shot up in surprise at Yhwach's revelation.

Shiki: Wano? Are you planning to start a war with Kaido?

Yhwach's expression remained composed as he considered Shiki's question.

Yhwach: Not a war, per se. But I do intend to forge an alliance with Kaido. With his power and resources on our side, we'll be one step closer to achieving our ultimate goal.

Shiki nodded thoughtfully, understanding the significance of Yhwach's plan.

Shiki: I see. Well, count me in. If you're going to Wano, I'll join you.

Scene Break - Location: Schatteninsel Docks

Yhwach stepped onto the brig, his commanding presence radiating authority as he approached the ship's steering wheel. The Schatteninsel docks buzzed with activity as soldiers and crew members prepared for their departure to Wano. The air was thick with anticipation and the scent of the sea.

Just as Yhwach's hand reached for the wheel, Shiki's voice cut through the air, laced with a hint of amusement and chiding.

Shiki: Seriously, Dragon Slayer? You're going to take the wheel yourself? You have soldiers for that. You're an Emperor of the Sea, not a deckhand! Speaking of which, where are they?

Yhwach paused, turning to face Shiki with a raised eyebrow. Shiki floated closer, his twin swords gleaming in the sunlight as he hovered above the deck.

Yhwach: I prefer to do it myself. Besides, I haven't experienced much about the seas and boats.

Shiki simply lit up his cigar and smirked, understanding Yhwach's sentiment. He then used his devil fruit ability on the brig, causing it to float effortlessly.

Shiki: Well then, Dragon Slayer, hold on tight. Let me show you what The Golden Lion can do.

Yhwach nodded. As Shiki began to maneuver the brig out of Schatteninsel, the Third King's eyes widened in surprise, his beak scratching in disbelief.

Third King: Is that a flying ship?

The Fourth King, ever pragmatic, chimed in with a nonchalant observation.

Fourth King: Yes. What a weird world we live in.

As Shiki steered the flying ship towards the direction of Wano, Zaegar, who had been flying back to Schatteninsel, caught sight of the airborne brig. His eyes widened in shock as he made eye contact with Yhwach for a split second, his voice echoing in Yhwach's mind.

Zaegar: (Mental Link) What the fuck?

With a flash of movement, Zaegar disappeared from Yhwach and Shiki's view, leaving behind a trail of confusion and intrigue. Within Yhwach's mind, Ginjo couldn't help but laugh at the unexpected turn of events, his amusement evident in his voice.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Hah! Looks like the Quincy King is taking to the skies! Who would've thought we'd be cruising over the clouds with a bunch of pirates and revolutionaries? Well, ain't this a sight for sore eyes!

Yhwach couldn't help but crack a faint smile at Ginjo's comment, his own amusement mingling with the former Substitute Soul Reaper's irreverent humor.

Yhwach: Indeed, Ginjo. It seems we're in for quite the journey. Let's hope Wano is prepared for our arrival.

As the flying ship soared higher into the sky, leaving Schatteninsel behind, Yhwach's mind buzzed with anticipation for the confrontation that lay ahead

Scene Break - Location: Marineford

 An officer came rushing into Sengoku's office with an urgent report.

Marine Officer: Sengoku-san! We've just received an urgent report. Golden Lion Shiki and Dragon Slayer have been spotted together in the New World!

Sengoku's brows furrowed in concern at the mention of Shiki's name.

Sengoku: Shiki?! It's been 22 years since we last heard of him, and now he's causing trouble in an emperor's territory, what is he planning?

His tone carried a weight of worry. The thought of Shiki and Dragon Slayer joining forces sent a chill down Sengoku's spine. The potential alliance between these two notorious criminals posed a grave threat to both the Marines and The World Government.

Garp: Munch-Munch…Bwahahaha! Looks like the bastard's alive and kicking! I thought he retired after escaping Impel Down!

Vice Admiral Garp chortled, holding a bag of cheese crackers in his hand.

Sengoku: Can you be serious for once, Garp?!...Sigh… We can't make any moves until we gather more information. Let's keep a close eye on them.

Scene Break - Location: New world, Wano Onigashima

King approached Kaido, who was busy drinking from his massive bottle of alcohol.

King: Kaido-san, we just got a report that Dragon Slayer's ship is flying directly towards Onigashima.

Kaido paused mid-drink, muttering to himself before crushing the bottle in his hand.

Kaido: ...Blah!... So you've finally come, Dragon Slayer.

King continued, noting the gravity of the situation.

King: There's actually someone else with him.

Kaido turned, his interest piqued.

Kaido: Someone else?

King: Shiki the Golden Lion.

Kaido's eyes narrowed, a mix of surprise and irritation flashing across his face.

Kaido: What the hell is that old man doing with him? He should've stayed hidden after all this time… Let them come.

Scene Break - Location: Flying Brig, En Route to Onigashima

The skies above the New World were clear, a vast expanse of blue punctuated by the occasional drifting cloud. The brig, under Shiki's control, soared through the air with an almost surreal grace. The wind whipped around them, carrying the scent of salt and adventure.

Yhwach stood at the prow of the ship, his cloak billowing behind him as he surveyed the horizon. His eyes were sharp, focused on the distant island of Onigashima. Beside him, Shiki hovered with a confident grin, his twin swords gleaming in the sunlight.

Shiki: Not bad for a first-time flyer, huh?

Yhwach: Impressive. I can see why you were once feared across the seas.

Shiki: Jihahahaha! It's all about making an entrance. Speaking of which, what's our plan once we land? Kaido's not exactly known for his hospitality.

Yhwach's gaze remained fixed on the horizon, his mind already calculating their approach.

Yhwach: Kaido respects strength above all else. We will present ourselves as allies, not enemies. He knows the value of powerful partners.

As the ship approached, all of a sudden, a giant, serpentine, blue-scaled dragon appeared from Onigashima flying towards the ship.

As the giant dragon approached the flying ship, Shiki wasted no time in speeding up their approach towards Onigashima. The wind howled around them as they closed in on their destination, the island looming larger with each passing moment.

Yhwach's hand moved to his cloak, swiftly drawing his sword as he prepared for the impending confrontation. The blade gleamed in the sunlight, a testament to the power it held within.

As the ship drew closer, the massive dragon began to transform back into its human form, revealing the imposing figure of Kaido. 

Yhwach's eyes narrowed as he focused on Kaido, his grip tightening on his sword. With a swift motion, he activated his Hirenkyaku technique, propelling himself forward with incredible speed as he closed the distance between himself and the Emperor.

Kaido, sensing the impending clash, swung his massive club with lightning-fast speed. Electricity crackled around him as he unleashed his devastating attack.

Kaido: Thunder Bagua!

Yhwach, however, was ready. As he soared through the air, he focused his spiritual energy on his sword, reinforcing it with the power of the Schrift I - The Iron. The blade glowed with a faint blue aura as it clashed against Kaido's club, the impact sending shockwaves rippling through the air.

The skies above Onigashima rumbled with the intensity of their clash as they descended towards the island's surface.

With a resounding crash, Yhwach and Kaido landed amidst the rocky terrain of Onigashima, their collision sending shockwaves rippling through the earth. The ground trembled beneath their feet as they rose to their full heights, facing off against each other amidst the chaos of the island.

Yhwach's eyes narrowed as he surveyed his surroundings, his gaze drawn to the massive skull dome that loomed over Onigashima's landscape.

Yhwach's expression remained stoic as he faced Kaido's oncoming assault, his mind racing with calculations and strategies. As Kaido's massive kanabo descended upon him, coated in Busoshoku Haki, Yhwach's eyes widened ever so slightly, a flicker of surprise crossing his features as he sensed the invisible armor surrounding the Emperor's weapon.

Within Yhwach's mind, Ginjo's voice resonated with a mix of curiosity and intrigue.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Did you sense that? Kaido's weapon—it's enveloped in spiritual energy. It's like an invisible armor.

Yhwach's response was calculated, his gaze fixed on the formidable Emperor before him.

Yhwach: (Mental link) Yes, I felt it. It appears Kaido wields Armament Haki. This complicates matters.

As Kaido swung his weapon with thunderous force, Yhwach's instincts kicked in, his body moving with preternatural speed as he evaded the crushing blow. The impact reverberated through the air, sending shockwaves rippling across the rocky terrain.

Kaido: Wororororo!

Yhwach sensed Kaido turning around, quickly approaching him with menacing intent. With lightning-fast reflexes, Yhwach activated his Hirenkyaku technique, propelling himself forward with incredible speed as he dashed toward the Emperor.

In a clash of titans, both Yhwach and Kaido surged towards each other, the air crackling with anticipation. As Kaido raised his weapon and Yhwach prepared to strike.

Yhwach's blade sliced diagonally across Kaido's chest, opening up the old wound from Oden's legendary attack. However, in the split second exchange, Yhwach couldn't evade Kaido's retaliatory strike. With a thunderous impact, Kaido's massive kanabo collided with Yhwach's head, sending him hurtling through the air.

Kaido: Tch…I didn't expect you to open up this old wound

Kaido stated, but he didn't look bothered by it, in fact, he looked excited as he finally met someone strong enough to fight him 

Kaido: Give me your best Dragon Slayer!!!

Meanwhile, aboard the flying ship, Shiki's attention was suddenly drawn to the incoming projectile hurtling towards him. With a quick turn, he activated his Observation Haki, sensing Yhwach's trajectory just in time to brace himself for the impact.

As Yhwach crashed into Shiki, the Golden Lion's body absorbed the force of the collision, his own strength and durability allowing him to withstand the blow without faltering. Anger flashed in Shiki's eyes as he pushed himself away from Yhwach, his gaze now fixed on the looming figure of Kaido.

Shiki's voice boomed across the battlefield, filled with righteous indignation and fury.

Shiki: Kaido, you little shit!

Kaido's eyes widened in surprise and recognition as he looked up to see Shiki descending upon him, twin swords gleaming in the sunlight.

Kaido: Shiki, you old bastard!

Kaido said with disdain as he started transforming into his human-beast form. His appearance started changing as he grew scales on his arms, outer torso, back, and legs as well as six horns on his head, claws on the hands and feet, and a long tail.

Scene Break - Moments Earlier

While the battle between Kaido of the beasts and Yhwach was raging outside of the Skull Dome in Onigashima, Yamato was seen running around the castle hallways making her way to the outside while followed by a dozen men. 

Yamato was wearing a hannya mask, which has a blue wig with an extremely long and wild mane attached to the top and a long blue goatee attached to the bottom, and a kimono that had long white sleeves. 

Beast Pirate #1: She's getting away! 

Beast Pirate #2: --Yamato-sama!

Yamato: Damn it! You guys are so persistent!

Yamato cursed loudly, the shackles attached to her wrists gave up her position as she ran away from Kaido's men, making her way outside the Skull Dome – Kaido's castle.

Hearing a strong and infamous pirate arriving at Wano and fighting her father, Yamato couldn't contain her excitement. She remembered the first encounter between Oden and Whitebeard in Wano, which she had read in Oden's personal diary. 

Yamato: Finally, the exit!

The moment she jumped outside, she was greeted by a rush of air, caused by the shockwaves nearby. The clash between two infamous pirates was a sight to behold, the bodies of unconscious weak individuals filled the entire area, and the sheer force of their attacks shattered the ground.

The first person she noticed was a figure flying in the air with two swords. Before him was her father whom she recognized very well, standing tall and strong in his human-beast form, he had an intimidating aura around him.

With each of their clash, she felt shivers in her body.

Yamato: Amazing!

Soon after that, Kaido retaliated and the battle between the two continued for a few more minutes before it came to a halt, and Yamato finally took the chance to show up. 

Kaido: Huh Yamato? What the hell are you doing here?!

Kaido looked shocked at Yamato's appearance since he made sure to lock her away before going out to fight Yhwach.

Kaido: Don't tell me you're still on that nonsense?

Kaido asked glaring at her.

Yamato: It's not nonsense, I told you before…I want to become Kozuki Oden!

She declared loudly, her face wasn't visible because of the mask, but you could easily guess by her tone of voice that she was not afraid of Kaido at all.

Kaido: Enough with that bullshit, you're not getting anywhere.

Kaido shouted at Yamato as his forehead veins bulged in anger 

Kaido: Stop playing around if you don't want to get hurt brat.

Kaido proceeded to smash the ground with his weapon, causing a massive shockwave that sent Yamato flying a few meters back.

But Yamato wasn't intimidated by Kaido at all and quickly got on her feet again and changed her attention to Shiki this time.

Yamato: I saw you fighting father just now, you're very strong…you're also a pirate right?...

Yamato asked Shiki in excitement.

Yamato: Then let me ride on your ship, I also want to explore the world just like Oden!

Kaido and Shiki: Huh?!

Yhwach reappeared beside Shiki, his expression inscrutable as he overheard Yamato's words. Ginjo's laughter echoed within his mind, the former Substitute Soul Reaper finding amusement in the situation.

Ginjo: (Within Yhwach's mind) Well, well, well, looks like Kaido's got himself a rebellious offspring! Ain't that a surprise? Guess even Emperors have family drama.

Yhwach couldn't help but chuckle inwardly at Ginjo's irreverent commentary, his amusement mingling with a sense of intrigue.

Meanwhile, Shiki's laughter resonated across the chaotic battlefield, the Golden Lion finding humor in the unexpected turn of events.

Shiki: Jihahaha! Kaido, you sly dog! I never knew you had a child! And a spirited one at that! Looks like the apple didn't fall far from the tree.

Kaido glared at Shiki, his eyes blazing with intensity as he processed the Golden Lion's taunts.

Kaido: Watch your mouth, Shiki! This is no laughing matter.

Yamato, undeterred by her father's outburst, turned her attention to Shiki with a determined look.

Yamato: If you're planning to beat father, then let me join your side! I'm strong enough to fight as well!

She hefted her giant kanabo, her resolve evident in her stance. Shiki looked at her, his expression a mix of amusement and irritation.

Shiki: Jihahaha! You think I'll let a hot-headed brat like you join us? You're dreaming! We don't have time for childish games.

Kaido, his patience wearing thin, roared with frustration.

Kaido: Enough with this nonsense! You're interrupting my fun!

With a swift motion, Kaido swung his massive kanabo, the weapon crackling with Busoshoku Haki. The ground shook as the mighty club descended towards Yhwach and Shiki. However, before the blow could land, Yhwach raised his index finger, his eyes focused and calm.

Yhwach: Burner Finger 1.

A concentrated beam of searing heat shot from Yhwach's finger, striking Kaido's hand with precision. The intense heat forced Kaido to release his grip on the kanabo, the weapon falling to the ground with a resounding thud.

Yhwach: We're not here for war or a fight, Kaido.

Kaido's expression shifted from anger to a calculated curiosity, his intense gaze locked onto Yhwach. The Emperor of the Sea let out a deep, rumbling laugh that echoed across the battlefield, causing the ground beneath them to tremble.

Kaido: Worororo! Not here for a fight, you say? You come to my island, clash with me, and now you say you don't want a war? What is it you want, Dragon Slayer?

Yhwach sheathed his sword, his eyes never leaving Kaido's. His calm demeanor contrasted sharply with the chaotic energy of the battlefield.

Yhwach: We're here to propose an alliance, Kaido. With your strength and resources combined with ours, we can challenge the World Government and the Marines. Our goals align more than you realize.

Kaido's interest was piqued, but his skepticism remained evident. He glanced at Shiki, who hovered nearby with a smirk, and then back at Yhwach.

Kaido: Worororo! An alliance, huh? And what makes you think I need allies?

Shiki floated closer, his eyes gleaming with mischief and a hint of respect for the towering Emperor.

Shiki: Jihahaha! Come on, Kaido! Think of the possibilities! The world quakes at the mention of your name and mine. Just like the good old days with the Rocks.

Kaido's gaze narrowed as he looked at Yhwach, his expression unreadable.

Kaido: Are you suggesting we rebuild the Rocks Pirates? Is that what you're after, Dragon Slayer?

Yhwach's expression remained impassive as he responded to Kaido's question, his voice calm and measured.

Yhwach: No, Kaido. I have no interest in rebuilding the Rocks Pirates or becoming a pirate myself. All I seek is nothing short of the eradication of the World Government. Their reign must end, and I will be the one to bring about their downfall.

His gaze shifted from Yhwach to Shiki, a flicker of irritation crossing his features as he recalled their tumultuous history. Shiki was one of the people that he detested most from the former Rocks Crew, merely due to Shiki once stealing his sake and beating him up when he was younger and without a devil fruit.

Kaido: And you, Shiki... You're the last person I'd want to ally myself with. The memories of our fights still burn bright in my mind. But if you're willing to put aside our differences for the sake of this alliance, then I'll hear you out.

Shiki's grin widened at Kaido's words, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.

Shiki: Jihahaha! You always were a stubborn one, Kaido. But I'm willing to let bygones be bygones for the sake of our shared goals.

Yhwach remained silent, his gaze steady as he observed the exchange between Kaido and Shiki. He knew that their alliance would be fraught with challenges and betrayals, but he also recognized the potential for power that lay within it. With Kaido's strength and Shiki's cunning, they could reshape the world in their image.

Yhwach: So, Kaido... What do you say?

Kaido's lips curled into a feral grin, his eyes gleaming with excitement as he extended his hand towards Yhwach.

Kaido: Let's make history, Dragon Slayer.

Yhwach clasped Kaido's hand firmly, sealing their alliance with a silent vow.

To Be Continued.

_______________________________________________________________

Hey there,

You might have noticed the title of this chapter: "Important Announcement." Don't panic—I'm not discontinuing the story or putting it on hiatus, well, maybe a kind of hiatus, but not exactly. I'll be pretty busy for the next month or two, so there won't be any new chapters during that time. And when I return, I won't jump right back into writing the next chapter for this arc. Instead, I'll be working on a complete rewrite, possibly even a reboot, of the first few seasons and arcs, which might have an impact on the recent ones.

During my break, I'll be delving deep into researching, analyzing, and understanding Yhwach's character and Bleach ( Every Single Verse ) as a whole from scratch. I'll be taking copious notes and compiling them into my own little textbook. There are quite a few things about Yhwach's actions that don't quite add up, so expect some significant changes.

Now, I have a few questions for you, dear readers:

Question #1: What do you think Zaegar's backstory might be if he even has one?

Question #2: Since I'll be making a lot of changes, what kind of alterations would you like to see? For example, I'm considering letting Zaegar kill Emi at the beginning or end of Arc 4.

Question #3: What are your thoughts, suggestions, and predictions for our current arc? I'd love to hear all your ideas, thoughts, and musings.

Question #4: Are there any specific plot points or storylines you feel need further development or resolution?

Question #5: Which characters do you feel deserve more focus or exploration in upcoming chapters?

Question #6: Do you have any favorite moments or scenes from the story so far? Conversely, are there any scenes or elements you feel could be improved upon?

Question #7: How do you feel about the pacing of the story? Is it too fast, too slow, or just right?

Question #8: How do you feel about the balance between action, dialogue, and exposition in the story? Are there any areas where you think it could be adjusted?

Question #9: What are your thoughts on the overall direction of the story? Are there any specific directions or twists you'd like to see it take?

Question #10: Lastly, do you have any general feedback or comments about the story that you'd like to share? Whether it's praise, criticism, or suggestions for improvement, I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Your feedback and engagement mean a lot to me, so please don't hesitate to share your thoughts. I'll see you all soon with some exciting updates!

8th World: Naruto ( Confirmed )