The Truth Behind The Shepard

By

Godell

Disclaimer: I don't own Bleach, only this plot and consequently this AT.

Chapter One

Momo

--

Momo knew she must be dreaming, but the image and sounds before her were too real.

"If you had brought that little Momo girl along with us, maybe we could have some fun."

"I know you're bored, Gin. Just be patient. We'll be having company soon."

Captain Ichimaru's smile broadened as he rested his elbow on Momo's beloved Captain Aizen's armrest. "Who might that be…Captain Aizen?"

Captain Aizen chuckled, resting his chin in his hand as his eyes turned toward Captain Ichimaru. "Your old…friend. And her little Strawberry."

Captain Ichimaru laughed outright, a sound that was chilling to Momo's frightened ears. "Thank you, Captain Aizen. I suppose Rukia found the letter I gave her?"

Captain Aizen ruffled Ichimaru's hair fondly for a moment—and Momo felt a pang of jealousy.

"I had Ulquiorra deliver it as soon as we entered Las Noches. Your request shall be fulfilled."

Captain Ichimaru hid his face with his sleeve in a way Momo realized in horror was a habit of hers. "Oh, Captain Aizen, you spoil me!" he cried in a mocking falsetto.

Captain Aizen smiled. "It's the least I could do for my most-trusted lieutenant."

--

Momo's eyes snapped open to stare at Izuru's surprised expression.

"I…Izuru…?" she croaked, wondering how long she had slept. "What are…?"

"Just Kira will do." Kira said a little gruffer than usual. He blushed and stammered out "Sorry, Hinamori, it's just—"

Momo nodded slightly. "I know. It's all right, Kira."

The two stared at each other for a moment, and then Kira went to get Captain Unohana, to tell her that Momo had finally awoken from her coma of 61 days.

The dream came back to Momo suddenly. "Kira?" she called, her voice still hoarse.

Kira was beside her in an instant, his blue eyes wide with worry and fear. "What is it, Hinamori?" he asked quickly.

"What happened to Rukia?" she asked, and she felt the worry settle on her chest like a thick, heavy rock.

Kira stared down at the floor, looking the picture of dejection. "She vanished yesterday. Renji's going ballistic, of course, but Captain Kuchiki isn't saying anything—but that's understandable. Apparently that ryoka boy, Ichigo, vanished with her."

Momo nodded. "I see. Thank you, Kira."

Before she drifted off into a dreamless sleep, Momo decided that as soon as she was well enough to stand up and hold Tobiume again, she was going to go get some answers from Captain Aizen.

She didn't want to be a blind sheep anymore. And besides, Rukia might be in danger—and Renji would never tolerate that.