Note: Story does not follow original sequence of actual Bleach timeline.

100 Years Ago (from current bleach storyline)

Ginrei sighed. He turned around and summoned one of the servants of the Kuchiki Mansion. The servant knelt and bowed, apprehensive of the tense atmosphere in the room. The Kuchiki Head had been acting strangely since the morning in a manner none could comprehend. During the weekly meeting with the Houses this morning, he had unknowingly picked up the wrong cup and drank the tea of head of the Delvon family, much to many open-mouthed stares of the nobles present. Even as head of the Shiba Clan, young Kaien Shiba could not help but utter a soft but audible 'oops', setting low chuckles across the meeting room.

Next, not long after the meeting, Ginrei had taken a small stroll outside the Squad six barracks. He was enjoying the refreshing air and the nature immensely. Stopping to admire one of the larger trees, he noticed an unnatural bump hanging from the trunk. Surprised, he reached out a hand without warning and squeezed it. Immediately, a loud shriek emitted and, in an instant, Ginrei and his squad members had been surrounded by members of the Stealth and Punishment force from the second squad. It appeared that the second division's newly appointed captain, Shihouin Yoruichi, had been taking a nap under the trees, much to the embarrassment of the Kuchiki lord. He hastened away after making a quick apology.

And now, appearing before the servant was a sight of Ginrei Kuchiki he had never seen before. Proud and dignified as he had always appeared, he could completely decapitate a man without so much of a glance. But now, it appeared that he was beginning to lose control. His hands were shaking ever so slightly and the wrinkles in his forehead deepened. He had wrapped his scarf the wrong way without even noticing it the slightest. The servant waited apprehensively for the command.

Ginrei frowned. This day had finally came, the day which he had dreaded. The day in which the hands of the newly appointed FirstSable would be stained in sin. In a barely audible voice, he whispered, "Summon Byakuya".

Two nights ago

"Kuchiki Byakuya? Are you serious?" Hirako Shinji, Captain of squad 5, snorted loudly. "Yeah, I know it's the tradition, but are you sure he's strong enough?"

"Please control yourself, FourthSable." Ukitake Jushiro stated pleasantly, seeming unsurprised by the sudden news.

"Well, it's not like we distrust you or anything, FirstSable Lord Ginrei," Tousen Kaname added. "We undoubtedly will lay down our lives right here and now for you and The Order, my lord." he bowed slightly. "Kuchiki Byakuya, however, has not even acquired the rank of a captain, not to mention achieving the shikai release of his Zanpakto. Allowing him to lead us of our worthy cause is unacceptable."

"He's right," Shihouin Yoruichi frowned thoughtfully. "Fate of the entire Order would rest fully on his shoulders. A single wrong move could mean downfall to the entire Black Order if Byakuya's inexperience gives us all away." She shifted slightly and glanced around at the secret underground basement, well hidden beneath the garden of Squad 6 – a creation of Urahara's. "By the way, where's the ThirdSable?"

"Oh, Kyoraku is drinking tea with the Captain Commander tonight," Ukitake winked slightly. "I know its Urahara's turn to keep watch, but he's having a bad cold."

"My decision is final," Ginrei announced firmly. At his voice, all four captains turned to face him and knelt immediately, their heads bowed. "Byakuya Kuchiki will succeed me as the next FirstSable of The Order should he acquire the rank of captain in the thirteen divisions. I will break the news to him in two days time."

"And should he decline the offer or fail to become a captain?" Tousen asked, raising his head slightly.

"If so, then I will kill him personally."

(end)

My first Fanfic! Please tell me what you think of this. Reviews and critics are all welcome.