Chapter 4: Crossing Daggers

Chapter 4 – Crossing Daggers

"Ah!"

Isane Kotetsu woke up in a cold sweat from the bed she was sleeping on. Anyone who knew her knew one simple fact.

She always had nightmares.

Mostly these were nightmares based on rather innocuous things, like fishcakes. But much like the previous night, and the night before, these nightmares were anything but.

Her gaze drifted to the window. It was morning.

Oh….why do these keep happening to me?

The older Kotetsu rubbed her tired eyes, which only served to hinder her demanding work at the 4th Division. And worst of all, not even her captain could stop them.

Once again, they were about Aizen and company.

Isane was present when Aizen first revealed his true power – Kyouka Suigetsu – in the blood-stained chamber of the Central 46. His calm yet mocking voice when he described his plotting. The angered stare and shaking voice of her own captain when she questioned him.

She didn't know what he was plotting exactly, but he had played the Seireitei for fools. Worst of all, he had Hollows on his side now. A physical monster combined with a psychological one….

The silver-haired Shinigami yawned and quickly made the bed, noting she had to go to work.

Momo was to be discharged today, and the fact made Isane even more nervous. Not only was the girl – a fellow SWA member at that – not emotionally stable at the moment, she was a cruel reminder on how callous Aizen really was.

As she began to dress, she begin to think.

Vice-Captain Kusajishi….Kiyone said she seemed so serious in our last meeting in the clubroom. Does she even realize the gravity of the situation?

Yachiru was far from being an idiot, but she had a short attention span.

Even she's more confident than me…..maybe that's why the captain joined the club and likes her so much. Peas in a pod.

Isane sighed.

"Attention! This Captain's Meeting shall come to order!"

Gennryusai-Shigekuni Yamamoto banged his staff and opened one eye. All of the available Captains were present, although no one looked very pleased to be here.

Inwardly he was furious. Three Captains managed to deceive him and defect to join the Hollows….in the old general's case, an instant offense to be burned to a crisp. He did not tolerate disobedience.

"We have a lot to discuss, now that the dust has settled on….recent events."

Yamamoto opened the other eye.

"Does anybody wish to say something before we begin?"

Shunsui raised a hand.

"For the third time, Shunsui, no, you can't leave."

"So mean, Yama-jii."

"Anyway…Ichigo Kurosaki is dubbed our substitute Shinigami and for now, he will consider him an ally to the cause. So would you mind explaining why the two of you were running through the compound yesterday, Captain Zaraki?"

Kenpachi shrugged. "He's fast, I'll give him that."

"…."

"Sir, I have a question. What do you mean….for now? Ichigo-kun is to be trusted, isn't he? He's an honest boy." Jushiro said.

"Don't pretend the writing isn't on the wall, Captain Ukitake. Captain Kuchiki has confirmed he had a Hollow mask on during their battle. I do not know how, but he has Hollow powers. That is not something I like to see."

Retsu, Shunsui, and Jushiro all shared a brief glance at each other. The words rang true to an event long ago…

"I assume he is to stay on our side because having him rogue or worse, going to Aizen-" Soi grimaced at mentioning the name "-is a worse situation?"

"Indeed. We are to monitor him, and that is what the badge is for."

"Ridiculous." Jushiro frowned. "Captain Kuchiki also confirmed Ichigo removed the mask, so I don't see the point of deceiving him. He has control."

"For how long?" Byakuya asked.

The two captains briefly stared at each other. Ichigo wasn't the only person they had disagreed on.

"I'm with Jushiro, the boy seems harmless."

Yamamoto glared at Shunsui, his reiatsu rising slowly.

"It's all relative, you know."

"Can we talk about the other ryoka? What of them?" Sajin Komamura inquired.

"They are to be allies as well, due to association."

Retsu looked thoughtful. Yachiru had basicially kidnapped Orihime to join the SWA, so perhaps she could try to get closer to the girl overall.

"Perhaps we should summon these new allies and describe the current plight."

"They were present when Aizen made his declaration. We should focus on increasing the might of our own forces. And as well as make new appointments." The old general rumbled.

"We don't have any choices for Captains." Komamura pointed out. Then he thought of Kaname Tousen and cringed slightly. "All 3 positions are to be replaced?"

"Yes. Ichimaru, Tousen, and Aizen have willingly betrayed the Seireitei, so to even consider them returning if captured…..would disgrace the position. There is no forgiveness for traitors."

Toshiro crossed his arms. "But for now, the positions have to be vacant?"

"No. Each Captain should consider if there is anyone who is close to achieving Bankai. We need candidates for the future."

Retsu spoke up. "I speak for Captains Kyoraku and Ukitake when I bring this up, sir. Could….past Captains ever hope to reclaim their position?"

"I do not know what you mean. The four of us have held our positions for centuries, and other past captains have passed on."

"Not all of them." Jushiro said. "Remember, how did Ichigo Kurosaki come here? Who fought with Captain Fon?"

Soi gasped but quickly covered her mouth. Yoruichi-sama.

"As far as I'm concerned, Yoruichi Shihouin and Kisuke Urahara are still in exile for their offense. And I will not hear any other objections."

"But sir-"

"Enough! With the Central 46 gone, judgement for Soul Society lies on my shoulders alone. We should also replace them as well, when Aizen is disposed of."

"What?" Toshiro scowled. "You can't be serious. Aizen killed them with ease. What prevents one of us from doing the same thing? The system is flawed."

"It is not, Captain, and I would advise you don't imply yourself of murder plotting."

"Yes, it's not even." Mayuri intoned, scratching his chin. "46? The number should at least be odd-numbered for tie-breakers."

Toshiro, Jushiro, Mayuri, and Soi all glared at Mayuri. The man was the last one to give thought about a ruling body when his own methods were dubious.

"It's dumb." Kenpachi grunted. "Those geezers didn't yield a zanpakutou or fight. Why should've we listened to them anyway?"

"They were appointed by the Royal Guard at the inception of Seireitei." Byakuya said calmly.

"Ha! Listen to this joker! I guess you want your sister to get fried for another stupid offense? Maybe she'll get caught tying her sandals!"

Byakuya rose his reiatsu and glared very very harshly at the large captain, who just smiled. Sadly, the Kuchiki realized he had a point.

"ENOUGH!" Yamamoto growled and banged his staff. "Let us move to another topic. Captain, how fares Momo Hinamori?"

Retsu frowned. "She is stable and able to return to active duty, but only within Seireitei. She is still too emotionally scarred for combat. She needs time to recover completely."

"A shame. She must realize Sosuke Aizen is the enemy. He is everyone's enemy now!"

No one…..is allowed to hurt those in the club.

Soi and Retsu both shared a look at each other. The words seemed to be truer than what Yamamoto meant by them.

"I would like to go back to the ryoka for a minute." Mayuri said. "Their powers were quite unusual, if I do recall."

Every Captain all thought for a minute.

"That Inoue women…she made barriers and healed." Kenpachi said.

"The Sado fellow…..he was able to transform his arm and fire blasts." Shunsui said. "How interesting. I wish we could've had a drink. Maybe there's still time…."

"And Uryu Ishida….he was a Quincy." Soi remembered.

Quincy…..

Everyone was aware of the past actions taken against the group of reishi-controlling beings, but no one was truly aware of how one person added torture to the mix.

But instead of fearing guilt, Mayuri gave a toothy smile.

"Each of them would be worth studying, no?"

"I must say their powers are quite dangerous for regular humans to wield." Komamura said. "How did they get them?"

"That! That is the reason why we should study them, Head-Captain Yamamoto." The clown-face captain looked far too gleeful. "We cannot take risks with the unknown."

Yamamoto closed his eyes for a minute. "They can be dangerous risks if left unchecked as well. After all, there is no common link for Inoue's or Sado's powers. But I still insist Ichigo Kurosaki is the most dangerous."

"All of this suspicion can be avoided if we just reach out." Jushiro shook his head. "Make peace, not war."

"Let me ask you a question, Jushiro. These are teenager ryoka. There exists the possibility they might consider themselves to be superior as they broke through our defenses, made a few captains and vice-captains look like jokes, and challenged our centuries-old system on a whim."

Yamamoto locked eyes with his student

"What good does it do if it comes off as us begging them for help?"

"What good does it do to treat them as monsters to be feared?"

"They should be minded!" Yamamoto closed his eyes again. "After Aizen, I will not tolerate anymore surprises or treachery. We've ALL seen an example of an ally deceiving us. Do you want to repeat that?"

Jushiro was at a loss. "Well…no, but-"

"Then that is the case."

Soi's eyes shifted from Jushiro and Yamamoto. She wasn't as old as the four titans in the room, but she was in the service longer than Komamura, Byakuya, Kenpachi, Mayuri, or Kenpachi.

There's something more to this….they couldn't have been referring to Yoruichi-sama only. That night…..are they talking about that night? It would explain Head-Captain Yamamoto's aversion to those associated with Hollows…..

The twin-tailed captain would have to conduct her own research into the subject.

"So, you all aware of what must be done. Prepare ourselves for future war with Aizen, and to rebuild the cracks left by him. Understood?"

9 nods.

"This meeting is hereby adjourned."

Orihime gave a sigh as she entered Karakura High, schoolbag and uniform in tow.

The young healer was very very conflicted, and for good reason – the talk with Nemu Kurotsuchi revealed some disturbing news, and it linked to Uryu in more ways than one.

And now her friend Tatsuki wanted "in" on the battle against Hollows. She had a lot of things to worry about….

"Hey Inoue."

Orihime's heart skipped a beat when she saw Ichigo approach her, as the two walked to their classroom.

"G-Good morning Kurosaki-kun!"

"What's with you?"

"Yesterday….don't you remember?"

"Ah." Ichigo sighed. "That damn Yachiru….she's a pest. I guess we gotta tell Chad and Ishida about Tatsuki knowing now…."

Orihime flinched at the mention of the Quincy. As a consequence for releasing enough power to defeat Mayuri Kurotsuchi, he had lost his powers permanently. That made her worried. The target he lost the powers to…was still around.

The monster who treated his soldiers as living bombs. And that was not the only thing….

"Should we tell your friends too?"

Orihime squeaked as Ichigo looked directly at her. The orange-haired youth was honestly conflicted, and he had other problems to deal with.

After all, he had an inner Hollow now.

"I….d-don't know. Tatsuki-chan was asking me questions all night when I finally came home. She's serious, Kurosaki-kun."

"Yeah. Tatsuki's always been stubborn like that."

The irony not lost on Ichigo, he quickly raised his arm.

"GOOD MORNING ICH-!"

Keigo Asano's assault was silenced by the blow.

"Hey Keigo."

"Ow…!"

Keigo fell to the floor and rubbed his nose.

"Good one, I-Ichigo! But I kinda let you have that one."

"Good morning, Asano-kun."

"Ah Inoue-san! You're looking as cute as ever."

"Careful now, you don't want to summon that horndog Chizuru." Tatsuki said, now standing between the two.

"Arisawa…."

"Tatsuki-chan…."

Tatsuki gave a nod as she passed through, her gaze lingering on both students as she walked into the classroom.

"Oh….."

"Man, she's kinda pissed today now?"

"Get to class, Keigo." Ichigo deadpanned.

"Okay buddy!"

Keigo rushed into the room, leaving the two alone in the hall.

"She…..hates that we lied to her, Kurosaki-kun. We have to train her."

"Train? Inoue, you can't be serious. There's too much at stake right now. We don't even know if she's ever seen a Hollow before. If she really wants to help, it's gonna take a lot of time, and I don't think we have that."

"Time you say?"

Uryu Ishida adjusted his glasses and checked his watch.

"You'd better get inside, Kurosaki. The bell's about to ring."

"Ishida." Ichigo grunted.

Orihime now looked very upset, starting at the not-Quincy.

"Inoue-san, is there something the matter? Kurosaki being as rude as ever?"

"Hey!"

"Ishida-kun…..I have to talk to you privately today. Is that all right?"

Uryu looked surprised, but he simply nodded.

"But of course, Inoue-san."

He entered the classroom, and Orihime hesitantly followed.

Oh…I don't think I can do this….

"Hey Ichigo. "

Ichigo noticed the large form of Yasutora Sado standing next to him. The gentle giant gave a nod, and Ichigo nodded back.

"Hey Chad. Those two are up to something…."

"Hmm."

"Listen, there's a problem now. Tatsuki…..she knows."

Chad didn't need for Ichigo to elaborate. "…she does?"

"Yeah. We're in hot water, buddy."

Momo put on her second sandal and quickly tied the straps. She smiled as Isane handed Tobiume back to her.

"Ah…..thank you, Isane-san!"

"Ah, it's no trouble. You know what time is your first session, correct? The Captain asked me to remind you."

Momo's smile weakened.

"Yes. I won't be late."

"I'll escort you to the grounds, if that's okay."

The two Shinigami walked in tandem, Isane's heart filled with unease and Momo's heart filled with resolve.

"Do you know when the next meeting is?"

"I don't know. The President never tells us anything. But she's up to something…..I don't think I like what she's planning."

Momo hummed. "You don't have a boyfriend?"

Isane blushed. "No. I don't think I'll have the time for one. What about…..um, never mind."

"Huh? It's okay to ask. I don't have one either."

I'm really scared she was going to say Aizen. Oh gods….

"That president, always prying! Isn't our romantic interests supposed to be a secret?"

"Nothing is secret with Yachiru Kusajishi." Isane managed to smile.

"I guess not. Sigh…still, it was very sweet you girls gave me flowers. And she convinced Inoue-san to give some as well! If only everyone was so kind like that…."

Isane stiffened.

"Hinamori-san, please remember we're all of your friends. If you ever have a problem…..please, don't hesitate."

"Thank you." Momo smiled in turn.

Once the two were outside and headed to the boundary of the division, a familiar face ran up and hugged the chocolate-haired girl.

"Oh! Hinamori, it's so great to see you out of the hospital! You look much better in black than those musky gowns."

"T-Thank you, Rangiku-san…..um…..you're squeezing too hard…."

"Matsumoto."

Rangiku dropped the girl at Toshiro's command, who just smiled at his childhood friend.

"Good to see you out, Hinamori. We're here to escort you to the 5th."

"Oh really now! I'm not a child, Shiro-chan. I don't need an escort for the whole day!"

Toshiro's vein twitched, but only slightly. "Captain Hitsugaya, please, Hinamori."

Isane giggled slightly. "Somethings don't change."

Rangiku tussled Hitsugaya's hair. "This little squirt, am I right?"

"Get your hand off my head before I freeze you to your desk."

"Stop being so mean, Captain! Honestly….you and Hinamori go on ahead. I'll catch up."

The two began their walk, then Rangiku slowly leaned to the older Kotetsu.

"Here's the scoop. The President wants to throw a party. She told Nemu-chan who told me."

"What? For Hinamori-san's discharge? I don't think that's needed."

"Not just that! Apparently Orihime said yes to joining! Now we can really have some fun…."

"I think we have more important things to worry about….."

"Oh Isane-chan, you'll find a boyfriend some day! You just need to find someone who can match your height."

"No!" Isane shook her head. "How can she be so carefree half of the time? I….feel like I'm only the person worried about….you-know-who."

Rangiku knew exactly who.

She didn't like to think about Aizen, because that would involve thinking about Gin. And that was painful. But at the same time, she wanted to punch his face in for what he did. Either way, she shared Yachiru's dislike of the man.

"…..we're all worried, Isane-chan. But maybe we should look to the squirt sometimes. She's more focused on her friends and having fun, and maybe, that's what we all need to do."

"…..I guess. But denial isn't healthy."

"Pfft! I consider myself to be an optimist at heart, you know? If we're all panicking, can we really get anything done? Besides, I have the perfect way to help Hinamori."

"Oh?"

Rangiku winked. "I'm going to set up her and my captain."

"What?"

Isane hadn't considered the prospect of love to aid in Hinamori's recovery. Perhaps the president was thinking correctly after all….

"Matsumoto, stop wasting time!"

Rangiku gave another wink before flash-stepping away at the sound of Hitsugaya's angry voice.

Soi stepped into the Seireitei library and looked around.

Such an event would be classified….but perhaps there's some kind of clue afoot.

The short captain walked to the shelf in the back and began scanning through the shelf.

"Here to browse, are we?"

Nanao put a book back.

"Ise."

"What brings you to the library, Captain? I can't say I've seen you here often."

"What about you? Kyoraku won't get any work done if you're not there."

The two women shared a smirk.

"I was just returning something I borrowed earlier. How was the Captain's meeting?"

"I'm not at liberty to discuss the topics."

"I wasn't asking for details, Captain."

Soi glanced at the vice-captain but continued to look through the shelf.

"Ise. Let me ask you something. Do you remember that night?"

"That night?"

"You know."

Nanao looked stunned but she managed to find her voice.

"I was but a small girl, Captain Fon. However, I remember everything about that night. What I ate, what I said to Captain Kyoraku….."

"Good. Do you think…" Soi paused and looked around, checking for noisy individuals. "Yoruichi-sama was here, and Urahara was the one who sent the ryoka. They are still around."

"They are."

"What about the eight missing officers?"

"…..you're implying they are in the Living World somewhere?"

"The presence of Ichigo Kurosaki's powers made me think. Three of us captains were prodding Yamamoto if old captains could come back to their positions."

"I see."

"The Central 46 has been slain."

Nanao nodded. "They were the ones who gave out the sentence. There is no one enforcing it now."

"Ise, I'm not saying we greet them with open arms. Hollow powers are not something I take lightly. I have my own suspicions about Ichigo Kurosaki, but there's a piece of the story missing here."

"An impromptu investigation then? I shall assist you."

"In what way? You're not part of the 2nd nor am I giving you permission."

Nanao simply adjusted her glasses.

"You and I are two of the few people that are still around to recount the circumstances, Captain. And I work under someone else who would be willing to help out as well."

Soi looked away. "I want answers, not reunions, Vice-Captain."

"Certainly. But would you be adverse to Lady Shihouin re-entering your life?"

Soi looked shocked as Nanao gave a sly smile and walked away.

"By the way, the president wants a party. There's been recent developments."

"I know Hinamori was discharged. She's not completely healthy."

"No…..apparently Miss Orihime Inoue agreed to join us."

Silence.

"….What?"

"Achoo!"

Orihime wiped her nose and continued writing notes from Ochi-sensei's lecture.

Rukia slid back and shifted her stance, then quickly jumped forward to unleash another slash. Her opponent blocked, but she unleashed another blow.

"Ha!" Renji Abarai, Byakuya's vice-captain jumped back, nodding in satisfaction. "You're really getting better so quickly, Rukia. I guess your powers really have returned to their full level now."

"Not only that, Renji. Captain Ukitake is training me."

"Oh?"

Renji rushed and swung his sword, but Rukia dodged, resulting in only a few strands of her hair getting cut off.

"Yes."

Rukia gave a shout and swung her own blade, but now the two locked their weapons, trying to break each other's guard.

"I want to get stronger! If Ichigo can do it, why can't I?"

The two friends both slid back.

"Well…..you gotta remember Rukia, Ichigo was kinda pressed for time and used help, you know? There's no reason to believe you can't easily get stronger."

"…..maybe not stronger. Ichigo is special. I don't think a regular human could've pulled off his feats."

Rukia smiled and sheathed Sode no Shirayuki. Thanks to her captain's guidance, Rukia was talking to her zanpakutou much more often recently.

"…hey, Rukia, I hope you don't have any hard feelings over what I did, you know?"

"Not at all. You defied Nii-sama. You fought him. You tried to fend off Aizen as well."

Rukia's gaze intensified.

"He will pay. Not just for betraying the Seireitei, but injuring many in his wake…and…."

Rukia felt her chest.

"And….using me as a scapegoat."

The red-haired vice-captain adjusted his headband. "Yeah, I'd like to make that bastard pay too. Captain Kuchiki himself is probably really furious as well."

Rukia blinked.

"Renji, did you ever meet Nii-sama's late wife?"

"Huh? Oh yeah, that was your actual sister…nah. Why do you ask?"

Rukia sat down.

"Nii-sama promised Nee-san he would watch over me….but promised his parents he wouldn't defy the rules. You can see the problem."

"Look, Captain Kuchiki DOES care about you."

"He does! But….." Rukia fiddled with her sword hilt. "After what happened, is it so easy for us to get closer? Ichigo….he has two sisters, Karin and Yuzu. They get on each other's nerves every now and then, but they talk to each other. Before the execution, Nii-sama barely said more than three sentences a day to me."

"Ah, you think he's not trying to get closer?"

"I think it's harder than it looks. Maybe my likeness to Hisana is causing something?"

Byakuya watched from the distance, having gotten back from the meeting. In actuality, that was a problem. Rukia looked too much like Hisana Kuchiki.

Yet she was not the same person, in spite of every likeness. Byakuya mused to himself. Was I channeling some of my grief into indifference? Have I resented her for being the reminder of what I lost? I….don't know.

Despite what Kenpachi joked about, he would never try to arrest or execute her ever again. But….. a proper brother isn't supposed to be saying that in the first place.

"Rukia."

The two looked up as Byakuya walked over to them.

"Nii-sama, hello. How was the meeting?"

"Fine."

Byakuya thought for a minute and cursed himself.

"Actually, it was interesting. We discussed your friend, Ichigo Kurosaki. It would seem we disagree if his powers are a threat to us."

"What, Ichigo?" Renji asked.

Byakuya wanted to tell Renji to go away, but he had Rukia's full attention.

"Nii-sama, I know Ichigo lost control. But….I know him. He didn't give up when he was defeated before, and he didn't give up when Aizen had us cornered."

Byakuya marveled at the wide-eyed innocence in Rukia's eyes. Hisana would give him the same look when discussing his own battles.

Now the Kuchiki was cursing himself for thinking she looked cute.

"Anyway…..Rukia. Do you have plans later?"

"Uhhh…I think the SWA is planning something, but I didn't get any hard dates. Why?"

"….Would you like to accompany me in going through a photo album?"

Rukia looked surprised. "Me?"

"Yes. I can tell you….about Hisana."

"Oh really? Sure, Nii-sama!"

Renji whistled. Rukia had a look of pure joy on her face, and Byakuya realized something very important.

She wants to know her family…..

"Okay, Blondie. I think we should get a cake."

"A what? But that puts us over budget! We already have streamers, fireworks, a buffet, magicians….where are we supposed to get magicians?"

"Ask Ukki, he's pretty smart!"

Kiyone sighed and wrote "cake" on the blackboard.

The younger Kotetsu was actually the second person to join the club, a few days after Yachiru created it. She was bored, and naturally was very surprised to see the small vice-captain running it (with Nanao).

Unlike many, Kiyone loved to hang out with Yachiru, even if she was overshadowed by Isane (literally sometimes). She always wanted more sisters, and the pink-haired menace fit the bill.

In reality, she did feel ignored half of the time, but Yachiru (and Captain Ukitake~) always asked for her opinion on something, even if it was minor. She knew Yachiru looked more to Nanao and Nemu for club advice, but Kiyone didn't mind. Someone was paying attention to her.

"Hey Madame President?"

"Ooh I know! Let's add a disco ball!"

"Are you joking….." Kiyone groaned. "What is disco?"

"You know…with your feet?"

Yachiru stood on the table and did a little jig that definitely was not disco.

"How do you put it in a ball?"

"I don't have all of the answers, Blondie!"

"Listen. Rukia was asking me about something…..and now, well, it got me kinda thinking."

"Huh? What?"

"…..she wanted to know why you didn't stop the execution yourself."

Yachiru's eyes widened. She totally forgot about that. Rukia DID almost die, and here she was thinking about Momo and Orihime.

Why didn't she?

Yachiru was no captain-level fighter, but she never got things done through raw power anyways. Now her head was starting to hurt.

"um….."

The small vice-captain had no definitive answer.

It was great to see Kenpachi so excited to fight a strong opponent – it was the first time in a very long time that the captain looked so giddy. Yachiru was happy when Ken-chan was happy.

Maybe she just felt it would all blow over. Ichi was strong, so he would've stopped it anyways!

But Aizen had showed up and nearly killed him and Rukia.

Yachiru looked uncomfortable and sat down.

"Blondie…..I did something bad, didn't I?"

"President, it's okay. We're all okay now."

"No! Ruki-Ruki feels like she's not a member…..and it's all my fault!"

Kiyone looked taken aback as Yachiru's eyes blinked with tears. Her bottom lip was quivering now.

"Prez, please don't cry! …..just talk with her. Everything was crazy then. I mean, Captain Fon knocked me out on Sokyoku Hill, and you don't see me upset with her, right?"

Although it did smart…

"Cancel the party!" Yachiru exclaimed, before crying and flash-stepping away.

"Oh no….." Kiyone whispered.

The entirety of the 12th was working when Mayuri entered the lab, disinterested.

"Captain." Akon greeted. "The meeting's over already?"

"Ah yes….standard stuff, really. Aizen this, Aizen that…..it's really not as bad as it seems."

"That so?"

"Well, maybe it is. My interests lie elsewhere."

Mayuri scratched his chin in thought.

"There's so much research potential ahead of us, everyone. We have not seen the last of the ryoka, and they all have such interesting characteristics. It's almost uncanny!"

Nemu froze in her seat.

"Anyway continue your work, everyone, as per usual. I think I should change my appearance to something more…..majestic."

Mayuri took a minute to touch his long horizontal horns.

"Wait a minute…."

The cloud-faced captain stepped over to a young Shinigami working at her own station.

"What are you doing?"

"Ah Captain Kurotsuchi! I was running some tests…."

"Who are you, again?"

"Um….I joined yesterday, sir. My name is-"

Big mistake. Akon thought.

"I really don't care what your name is, so don't bother. You are running those machines incorrectly. See the dials?"

The recruit followed Mayuri's pointer finger.

"Oh…oh! I-I'm sorry, sir. I-"

"You understand I have zero tolerance for incorrect or faulty data…..right?"

"I….."

The recruit started to sweat and gulp at Mayuri's leering face, now inches from her own. His golden eyes were burrowing into her soul.

"Do you understand or not?"

"Y-Yes! I'm sorry….."

"Tch."

Mayuri stood up and headed for the door, not before gesturing at Akon and barking Nemu's name to follow him.

Oh no…..

Nemu immediately followed, heart filled with dread.

She will be in the next bomb, I know that look. And he's so interested in the ryoka now…..what have I done? I've put Inoue-san's life in danger.

Speaking of-

Just in time for a break before the next class, Orihime nervously turned to Uryu, who was finishing up some notes.

I can't do this, I can't do this. It's bad enough Ishida-kun lost his powers fighting that monster. He's supposed to know he's alive?

Nemu had told her many, many horrible things.

Fact 1 – Mayuri Kurotsuchi was well and alive, and somehow still had his position.

Fact 2 – He was responsible for the torture of one Soken Ishida, which Nemu stressed Uryu already knew.

Fact 3 – Making his subordinates into bombs was merely one of the many sadistic things he liked to. Beating Nemu was another.

Fact#4 – Said Nemu girl shyly admitted she had interest in the Quincy, but she herself didn't know if it was love. She said the notion was…..foreign to her.

It wasn't unreasonable to assume Mayuri's treatment had filled Nemu with nervous guilt at the revelations, as the girl begged her – begged her, the only time Orihime saw panic on her face – to not to tell anybody else.

Orihime shivered. If Kurotsuchi-san knew…he would hurt more people, including Nemu-san. But…why is he still in power?

"Ishida-kun, let's talk in the hall, okay?"

"Sure."

The two got up and left the classroom, earning stares from a few students.

"Where do you think they're going?" Keigo asked Mizuiro Kojima.

"Probably to discuss some private issue that doesn't need prodding, Asano-san."

"Augh! Stop calling me that Mizuiro! We're friends, not colleagues!"

"Yeah, I wonder what. Telling him too?" Tatsuki asked Ichigo hotly, implying a discussion about the spiritual world.

Ichigo rolled his eyes and wrote on a piece of paper.

Easy there Suki, he knows too. He was part of the rescue attempt.

When Ichigo passed the note, Tatsuki read it and gaped. Then she got another one.

Yeah Chad knows too. Ask him anything.

Tatsuki looked over at the giant, who gave a thumb's up.

XXXXX

Uryu and Orihime stopped a few feet from the door.

"So what is troubling you, Inoue-san?"

"Ishida-kun…..do you remember who you fought in the Seireitei?"

The question pierced his insides like a lead spear. He knew exactly who. He could never forget that evil face, that twisted laughter, his boasting…

"Yes. Mayuri Kurotsuchi." He spat.

"Ishida-kun…..I went to the Seireitei because of…..well, that's not important. Someone told me he has his position. He's still a Captain!"

"…that doesn't surprise me. This is the same society that was going to kill Kuchiki-san for power transfer. He probably covered up his tracks."

"But he beats his vice-captain and uses his people as bombs! He….tortured your….people…" Orihime whimpered. "He…doesn't it bother you he's still….around?"

"Inoue-san, there Is no other man I wish to kill so badly. But….what can I do? I have no more powers."

Uryu felt his eyes lower and his body shake.

"I…..have no more powers. How funny. I throw everything I have to avenge Grandfather, and the effort is futile in the end. Justice remains unserved."

Orihime frowned. Her friend's voice started to crack.

"What a strange world we live in, huh? You know, he's been in my dreams. Every night I hear the screams of my grandfather, and I can't do anything to stop them. Both in dreams and now, in reality."

"Ishida-kun….."

"Inoue-san…..might I inquire who disclosed this information to you?" Uryu had dropped to his knees, desperately wanting something else to discuss.

"Nemu-san, his vice-captain. She felt horrible when she told me. She feels so guilty that she's stood by everything. She wants to do something, but she fears him so much."

"I see."

Uryu's mind drifted to the fight. She was beaten and stomped, yet she offered to give him the antidote to Mayuri's poison.

"She thanked me for sparing him. I think I understand."

Uryu stood up and adjusted his glasses.

"If I were to kill him there, he would be dead, but I would painted as the monster. If his crimes were to be exposed in their entirety, everyone would see. And they would see the fate of the Quincy was an ill-fated one indeed."

Uryu wiped his eyes.

"I thank you Inoue-san. I know what I must do."

The Quincy dashed down the hall, his new goal firm in his mind.

"Wait!...Nemu-san likes you…..oh….."

Nanao was not surprised to find Shunsui laid on a rooftop, watching the clouds.

"Beautiful day, isn't it Nanao-chan?"

"Sir."

"I know, work and all that. But hey…peaceful days like this may just become rarer and rarer."

In spite of the incoming conflict with Aizen, Shunsui's statement had some truth to it.

"I need to discuss something you again."

"Sure, we can up the training. But only if I get some nap breaks. Being a Captain is exhausting! Maybe one day you can feel the same way."

Nanao had been working on her swordplay and Kido with Shunsui, but training was the last thing on her mind.

"It involves an incident a century ago."

Shunsui didn't look up, merely smiling and pulling his hat down.

"Let me guess…..Retsu spoke with you?"

"No…..it was Captain Fon."

"Right, she was there too. Retsu-chan was kinda bringing up the incident to Yama-ji, and so was Jushiro. We're all thinking on the same page, it seems."

"….do you know something I don't?"

"Hm."

Shunsui looked up and smiled again.

"Can you keep a secret? Let's take a walk."

"Okay! Let's begin the next lesson!" Ochi declared, clapping her hands once.

Ichigo and Chad noticed Uryu did not come back with Orihime.

"Where did Ishida go?" someone asked.

"Yes, where? Inoue, didn't he leave with you?" Ochi asked.

"Umm…yes! But he got a phonecall…..his father wanted him at the hospital. Ehehehe…..he wanted me to tell you, sensei."

"Hm, alright then. One of you be sure to give him the notes. Eh….you do it, Kurosaki."

Ichigo groaned.

"Inoue, something tells me that wasn't the case." Chad whispered in his seat behind her.

"No….no it wasn't, Sado-kun."

Tatsuki raised an eyebrow, but nearly gasped when she looked out the window.

Three Hollows had passed by. Her eyes darted to Ichigo, Chad, and Orihime. The three of them shared the same look. But before they made a move, Tatsuki raised a hand.

"Yes Arisawa?"

"May I use the bathroom?"

"Be quick."

Tatsuki was gone in a flash, but Ichigo just gritted his teeth. I guess I should use Kon or something, she'll get suspicious if the three of us leave too.

Then the fire alarm rang out.

"Oh!"

Ichigo deadpanned.

Damn she's smart.

Rangiku hummed as she walked into the 5th Division, smiling and waving at various Shinigami she knew.

"Hey! Hiya! How's it going?"

"Rangiku-san?"

Momo approached her, holding a stack of forms in her right hand. She looked a little frazzled.

"What is it? I'm very busy right now…..there's so many division things to go over, recruits to monitor….how did Captain Aizen handle all of this?"

Rangiku frowned at the name, but handed a form to Momo.

"Captain wanted me to give you this."

By "me", Rangiku meant Toshiro asked the eighth seat to do it but she convinced the latter to take the task to get away from work. All it took was a sultry wink.

"Thank you, is there anything else?"

"Yes actually, I would like to take you out tonight. The Captain and I."

By "and I", the buxom vice-captain meant Hitsugaya wanted to treat her and didn't invite Rangiku at all. The details were trivial. Rangiku Matsumoto had a mission. By darn, she was going to set Toshiro Hitsugaya and Momo Hinamori up! She had her reasons.

1 – the two were close friends, so they were familiar with each other. They would be happy.

2 – it would do Momo good, and maybe speed up her recovery.

3 – President would be so proud of me!

Rangiku was no stranger to slyly manipulating people, but she marveled at how the SWA head did things. Anyone outside the 11th would assume she was a moron, but Yachiru Kusajishi, despite her low attention span, childish behavior, and antics, easily was one of the smartest people out there.

She felt like she was working for a crime boss.

4 – perhaps it would take her mind off her own problems.

"Oh, sure! Um, what time?"

"Let's see…..how about?"

"Because I don't think I can get all of this done in a timely fashion!" Momo whimpered.

"I can help you."

"Toshiro would get very cross at you, Rangiku-san. He needs his vice-captain, and he doesn't like when you keep goofing off."

Rangiku blinked.

Oh how sweet….she's always thinking of Captain.

Momo had smiled and her eyes lit up.

Tonight….maybe I can apologize to Toshiro then.

"Well okay! I'll be off then."

"Wait."

Momo shifted her gaze. "Um…..if you ever need comfort about what happened, just ask."

"Huh?"

"You know….Captain Ichimaru? I'm sure it was the most painful for you, Rangiku-san."

Although the young vice-captain still believed he was the mastermind, not Aizen, the words were not false.

Now Rangiku felt sad.

She hated feeling sad.

"I'm telling you, I think something's going on with the vice-captain."

Ikkaku scoffed. "She's being herself, what's new?"

Yumichika Ayasegawa scoffed and ran a hand through his well-moisturized hair.

"She's been sprinting out and about. Even the Captain is confused."

"Her brain operates so differently, Yumi. "

The two friends were walking down an alley, having taken a break from training. Kenpachi told them to go look for the pink-haired girl.

"Wait! Hear that?"

Yumichika gestured to a cardboard box. The faint sound of sniffles could be heard.

"Oh come on, she's not even trying now. Usually she hides in trashcans or Kuchiki's backyard when she's playing games."

Ikkaku stomped over and lifted the box up.

"Stop screwing around, Vice-Captain Kusa-"

Yachiru looked up at the two Shinigami, her eyes red from crying. She sniffled again.

"Baldy….Feathers…."

"Vice-Captain…..what's wrong?"

Yumichika bent down and rubbed the girl's head. Yachiru crying was a very very rare sight to see for the members of the 11th, and it clearly didn't look like this was over lost snacks or something.

It was the unspoken rule of the division – no one makes the Vice-Captain cry and live to see another day.

"Yeah….who upset ya? Give me a name, so I can kick his ass!" Ikkaku said, smirking.

But the smirk faded when Yachiru didn't smile.

"I…I'm…..a bad friend."

"What? Says who?"

"Yeah, you're everyone's friend in the Seireitei."

Yachiru shook her head. "I screwed up. Ruki-Ruki hates me."

"Kuchiki, eh?" Ikkaku scratched his chin. "Okay, I don't mind beating up a girl. But her brother's Bankai stings….oh well, I'll take my chances."

"Stop Ikkaku." Yumichika grabbed his bald companion. "Start over, Vice-Captain. How did Kuchiki-san upset you?"

"I…..didn't stop her….execution."

"What?" Yumichika blinked.

"Ichigo did that." Ikkaku grunted. "Everything was going crazy, Vice-Captain. And you saw how much fun Captain was having, right?"

"But Ruki-Ruki could've died!"

"…..well, yeah."

Yumichika stepped on Ikkaku's foot.

"Ouch!"

"Have some tact." He turned back to Yachiru. "Don't blame yourself, Vice-Captain. Remember we also had some traitors operating behind the scenes and it took a few captains to actively resist it. Without them, I don't think Ichigo and his friends would have much success."

Yachiru sniffled again.

"Man, that SWA club really means a lot to you, eh? You didn't talk to Kuchiki before then."

Another stomp.

"Damn you! That shit hurts!"

"Baldy, Feathers…..can you keep a secret?"

The two men looked at each other, but Yachiru stood up.

"I…..want to be like Ken-chan. Everyone follows him because they like him. I want the SWA to follow me because they like me."

"But Vice-Captain, they do like you. How else do you explain Captain Fon of all people there?"

Ikkaku had a point. Soi joining the club was a mystery in itself, but Yachiru knew exactly what the reason was. She overheard her admitting to Captain Unohana she didn't have companions. Naturally she was all too willing to fit the bill.

"Yeah Bee-chan is nice."

Not the word either would use to describe her.

"I say you should talk to Kuchiki-san. All of the members matter to you, right?"

Yachiru blinked.

That's it!

Seeing Momo all injured sparked a defensive streak in the little girl. She saw a friend actively hurt for the first time, whereas Rukia herself was not physically injured. Either way, maybe it didn't matter.

Now she would protect everyone that belonged to the SWA, and hurt those that hurt them. Physically, mentally, or emotionally.

That was the president's job.

"I got to go! Thanks Feathers, Baldy!"

Yachiru flash-stepped away.

"Be like the Captain…..damn. Maybe one day she'll be the Captain."

Yumichika smiled. "She wouldn't let him die so soon, you know."

"Ah yes, Tessai, put those boxes over there."

Kisuke Urahara waved his fan around and pointed towards the corner of the shop's front. The sandy-haired owner had received a new shipment from um….sources.

As his assistant obliged, Ururu Tsugumiya started to sweep, as that was the job she liked to do.

The door slid open.

"Welcome to the Urahara Sh-…..oh. Ishida-dono."

Ururu blinked up at Uryu. Kisuke noticed and walked over.

"Hello, Ishida-san! What can I help you with? Today we have a sale on-"

"Can it, Urahara. I require your assistance."

Kisuke raised an eyebrow. The teen was out of breath, so it seemed he ran all the way here. But why?

"Yes? We do home delivery now."

"I….need my powers back."

Kisuke dropped his fan and tapped his foot.

"Well, is that so?"

"Yes. I…..can't rest another minute. I need them back, so I can finish something I started."

"Might I inquire?"

"Hm. You were once a Captain, weren't you? I wish to destroy Mayuri Kurotsuchi."

At that moment, the scientist's heart was filled with dread. He wasn't stupid, and could connect the dots. He knew of the mad captain, after all, he was the one who freed from the Maggot's Nest due to his potential.

And now an ex-Quincy wanted to destroy him.

It was pointing to something…..ominous.

"I see. I'm not sure if I can restore them for you, Ishida-san. You would have to ask another Quincy."

"….that only leaves Ryuken."

Would he even bother if I mentioned Grandfather's fate? Would he even care?

"I'm sorry. I could look into methods, if I find anything…."

"….I understand. I'm sorry for wasting your time."

Ururu whimpered at the crestfallen look on Uryu's face as he left, and Tessai frowned as well. Kisuke wanted to tear his hair out, but then a black cat appeared on his shoulder.

"You feel guilty, don't you?"

"He fought Kurotsuchi, and that is the battle where he lost his powers. And I know Mayuri. He did something. Something twisted."

The cat paused to lick his paw. "It's Kurotsuchi we're talking about. Twisted is normal for that creep."

Kisuke sighed. "What to do…after all, we can't just capture the man. I mean, I probably could, but he wouldn't talk."

"Are you forgetting who is on your shoulder, Kisuke?"

The cat didn't look amused, but the shopkeeper managed a smile.

"Are you up for some sneaking, Yoruichi-san?"

FIN