…
…
She was in a daze.
Truly, she was. People were going into a frantic by now, screaming and shouting in hectic circles. Some woman were grabbing up their babies when they heard the shrieks from inside the shop, and others were already drawing their swords, prepared to fight for their lives. Orihime lifted the cloth of the door to see the havoc, and she was almost afraid to step into it, and possibly get carried away. Carefully, she stepped from the ledge of the shop and glanced around wildly for the man.
Her eyes shot around desperately, searching and searching.
Orange…Orange…Orange…
Her fists clenched against her sides, "Where…?"
There.
He was walking casually through the chaos, as everyone sped past him. There were a few shrieks from the crowd as she heard the horses and shouts of orders. Gasping, she watched as the guards surrounded him. Kurosaki didn't move, and didn't pull out his sword. Orihime quickly walked forward, trying to keep her eyes on the man.
"Kurosaki," the head captain called, "You're back in the area?"
Briefly, the orange-haired look towards the man, "Shūhei Hisagi," he greeted casually, as the guards readied their weapons, prepared for the murderer to attack, "Must you be such a nuisance? This is the second time you've tried to capture me."
Hisagi's eyes narrowed, "This is different. As you can see, you're surrounded."
Lazily, the orange-haired glanced around, as though realizing this, "I think you're right," he grinned widely, smugly. Quick as lightening, he pulled out his sword, and aimed, only for the Captain to draw out his own blade, clashing it viciously with Kurosaki's. The rest of the men drew as well, prepared to slice the young gent open.
Before she could stop herself, she was already yelling, "No!"
A rough jolt shoved her back, and she lost her footing, falling to the ground. Her kimono rose a bit to show her bare calves. The one soldier – that had propelled her back – glared at her, "Stay back, woman. This is none of your concern."
Luckily, he was too focused on Kurosaki to care for her looks or identity, but his eyes did linger on her legs a little too long. She repositioned herself, clenching her fists as they charged towards the man, and the war began.
Throwing her arms over her head, Orihime squeezed her eyes shut as the first spray of blood splattered against the ground. For some reason, she only hoped it wasn't the Kurosaki. There was another scream from deep inside the village, and the clash of swords rattled through the air. When she hesitantly pried her eyes open, she shrieked when a heavy body fell beside her.
Well, only a half of body. The soldier's being was cut in half, his legs missing, and blood gushing from the bottom. His intestines seemed to fall like rain from his severed body, and the puddle of crimson formed around him, as he flailed, slowed, and then died in front of Orihime's eyes. Her shout of fear seemed to gain some kind of attention, and Kurosaki's head turned briefly to see the young woman, large, hazel eyes staring up at him.
She was a distraction, it seemed, because the next second, they all pounced on the killer. Kurosaki grunted as he was shoved against the hard ground and his arms were yanked around to be chained together. He struggled against the bounds, and somehow, his eyes were able to find hers again.
"N-No…" She choked out, but it was a failed attempt.
Something went through her chest, and spread like wildfire through his body as she watched him be pulled up by the guards.
Onii-chan, what should I do?
…
…
Carefully, she tiptoed to the edge of the bricked gates, and made sure not to stumble. She was naturally clumsy when it came to these types of predicament. Peeking around the corner, she saw the one guard standing in front of the gates. There was no way she could get into the place without getting past him. When he glanced her way, she quickly maneuvered back into the shadows.
As she took a deep breath, she decided it was now or never. Slowly, she made her way to the entrance. The man looked up curiously and gasped in surprise when he saw the young, beautiful woman heading towards him. When she stopped in front of him, she gave a nervous, pretty smile.
Ignoring the flush in his sunken cheeks, the guard waved his sword threateningly at her, "Don't come near here, woman. This is private land."
Orihime bowed politely, "Sumimasen. I'm looking for someone."
He blinked in surprise, "Eh? No one's here besides the S.S. group and that damned Kurosaki," he spat his name like a curse.
Orihime rose, "Kurosaki is here?" She questioned, and she leaned around, as if searching for him. The guard stood in her line of view, "Do you know where I can find him exactly?"
His face hardened, "Kurosaki is a low-life. He's killed many people in this village, yakuza, people in his debt, soldiers, you name it. He's not someone you wish to associate with. Besides, he's being hung tomorrow for his sins."
Something in Orihime's gut twisted powerfully. Clenching her fists, she felt the familiar determination and anxiety pulse through her. "Sumimasen," she murmured and stepped around him, "but I cannot allow that to happen." The man watched in astonishment as she started past him. Growling in agitation, he gripped her slim, covered arm. Quickly, she reacted.
Of course, Tatsuki-san wouldn't allow her to leave without some kind of street-smarts.
She whirled around, her fine hair flying around her, and brought her leg forward, jabbing it directly in between his legs. He gasped and his face scrunched up in agony. Orihime felt his grip loosen and he slowly fell to his knees, and then onto his face, squeaking in pain and humiliation. Orihime bent down and searched his trousers, ignoring his whines of protests and disgusting curses. When she came across something in his pocket, she smiled.
"Ah!" She pulled out the small, dark key.
"You little bitch!" He crowed, continuing to cradle his privates with one hand, but trying to snag her ankle with the other. Orihime stepped back in time for him to miss. Standing, the princess took that chance to hurry away, her sandals making soft noises against the grounds.
As far as she could see, no one was near. The night made it very hard to see, and there were only a few huts. Stooping down, she tied the front of her dress into the obi around her waist, revealing her slender legs. This way, she could be faster. The first hut was bright and she was sure there were soldiers there. Just to make sure, she looked around the corner of the entrance, only to find three guards around the fire, chuckling and chatting about nonsense.
"…are you sure it's alright to just let Kenta watch the entrance? You know how gullible he is." One stated lazily.
"Ch," another scowled, grabbing up his spear, "I'll go check it out."
Orihime gasped sharply and quickly moved back as he walked towards her. Pressing her back firmly against the wall, she watched as the man yawned and then continued on his way, obviously unaware of her presence. Carefully, she turned towards the last hut. She doubted he was in the second one. As she sprinted across the dark grounds, she could hear the shouts of the man, and she was sure he'd already attracted attention.
She needed to hurry.
When she finally made it to the last, tiny hut, she realized it was rather quiet and dark. She didn't have time to hesitate. As she glanced it over, she found that there was no door, therefore, she skimmed her hands around until she found wooden bars, strong and durable.
"Oi,"
She gasped in shock. Her eyes widened and their gazes met immediately. Narrowed, long lashes electrifying his chocolate gaze, and his eyebrows were scrunched together. He was scowling at her, and he didn't seem very happy. She became nervous almost automatically under his hard eyes, and her stomach flipped over. Her heart sped up and she dropped her hands beside her, licking her dry lips. Her eyes roamed across his body; he was still tied by the wrists, but his shirt was removed and his hair was soaked with sweat, along with his body. His muscles rippled powerfully under smooth, sun-bronzed skin. His back was strong, yet lean, and flexed with his undeniable power. He was tired, she could see this, and there were smudges of dirt on his form and face, and she saw a couple of bruises dotting random parts of his arms and chest.
They had hurt him, and why did that make her chest split?
Suddenly, a feral grin lit up his handsome face, "Ah. If it isn't kitten."
Orihime's eyes grew and her heart skipped a beat. His voice was deep, sensual, a low husky tone that made her stomach flip once again. When she gathered her bearings, she frowned curiously, comprehending what he'd exactly said.
"A-Ano…" She swallowed, "are you talking to me?"
His smile fell and his scowl reappeared, "There's no one else here, yeah?"
She bent down to him. He was lying on his stomach, tied up, and drenched in sweat, but somehow had enough willpower to glare at her, "M-My name isn't kitten. U-Um, it's—"
"Does it look like a give a fuck?" He nearly growled at her, struggling in the bonds before giving up with an exasperated huff. "How'd you get in here anyway? I didn't think I would be allowed visitors."
"I-I'm not a visitor!" She chirped nervously and balled her hands into her soft pink kimono, "I'm…um…how do I explain it…?"
He watched her fidget and lower her hazel eyes to the ground. When she looked back towards him, her eyes were smiling at him, "Kurosaki-san, right?" She didn't wait for his confirmation, "I know you do not know me, but I was wondering if you could help me with something."
His eyebrows came together once again, "And with what exactly, kitten?" His eyes roved over her, and lingered on her exposed legs. Quickly, she loosened the tie and the kimono fell back in its rightful place. Too bad it hugged her body anyway. He grinned wryly and gazed back at her face.
She flushed and swallowed again. Her mouth felt abnormally dry. Pulling the key out, his eyes widened a bit as it glowed in the dull moonlight, "How about I let you out first and then we can talk?"
As she fell to her knees and placed the key in the lock of the cage, he chuckled. A shiver convulsed up her spine. His laugh was filled with mockery and smooth, but somehow had a hard edge.
"Eto—"
"Are you fucking serious?" He asked, and she jerked back when his eyes locked with hers. Truly, they were too intense for her. They rung with anger, violence that she hoped wasn't for her, but something about them said he'd been through a lot, blood and tears and hate. Her stomach twisted, and she thought she would choke from the unfamiliar emotions.
Hardening her features, she replied, "I am very serious, Kurosaki-san."
He continued to watch her eerily, penetratingly, "So you know who I am," it was rather a statement than a question. She nodded a bit, "Then why the hell are you asking me for favors?"
She blinked. "W-What do you mean?"
"I've killed people, stupid."
"…And?"
"…"
"…"
"…Are…Are you an idiot?" He deadpanned.
Leaving the key in the lock, she raised her hands to wave them in front of her, embarrassment coloring her face, "N-No! It's just I've stepped on insects before, and my family has cut down a tree once. I've killed things too."
There was another speck of silence before he snarled out, "Go away."
"E-Eh?"
"I don't want to help you. I'll be out of here soon enough." He spat harshly and lolled his head around to keep his gaze off of her.
"Kurosaki-san," she murmured, "they're executing you tomorrow."
It was quiet.
"…Why am I not surprised?"
"Eh? You're not? I would be very frightened." Lowering her hands to her lap, she nervously wrung her palms, "I-I don't want you to die…even if I do not know you that well." Sighing once more, he winced a bit when he tried to crawl towards her. Falling heavily back on the ground, he groaned, "K-Kurosaki-san! Are you alright?"
"No, stupid," he grunted out. "They've been beating me all day."
"HEY! I think I hear voices!"
Orihime's eyes widened, "Oh, no! They've must've figured out," she grabbed onto the key, and desperately turned. It was jammed, just her luck.
"Look, kitten," he ordered sternly and she instantly gazed up at him, "Get out of here."
"B-But you're—"
"I said go, idiot!"
Without thinking, she jerked up, "H-Hai!" And hurried away just in time for the guards to come around the corner.
"After her!" Hisagi crowed, jabbing a finger towards the fan of auburn hair vanishing in the dark. The soldiers cheered their consent before taking off after the girl. Hisagi turned his attention to the captive Kurosaki, his chocolate brown eyes diverted to the left, following the young woman until she disappeared. Leaning down, Hisagi pried the key from the lock, Ichigo scowling at the man.
The Captain only replied with a solemn look.
…
…
Orihime pried her eyes open. Her entire body was drawn towards the earth, practically reeking with exhaustion. She whimpered softly as she sat up with her heavy form. Her arms felt like led and her legs like iron. Something had woken her, but it wasn't the rising sun. She had fallen asleep on the ground, her head resting on a stack of hay.
"…eh? What is this…"
"…some kind of announcement…"
"…Kurosaki…"
"…must be serious…"
"…today…"
Carefully, Orihime turned her head to rest her weary eyes on the group of villagers. They all were crowded around a flyer, and she stood, wobbling a bit on her feet, to see exactly what it said.
Kurosaki Ichigo.
Hanging when the sun breaches the sky
And she was off.
…
…
I won't let them…
I won't let them…
I won't let them!
There were already a crowd of people at the entrance, demanding to get in while others were allowed to slip past with the guards' consent. Clenching her jaw, she searched for an opening. Finding none, she decided the best way to do this, was her way. Taking a few steps back, she ran forward, and ducked in time to slide between an unsuspecting guard's legs. She skidded to a stop on her bottom, and landed gracelessly in the dirt. As she stood, she saw the two soldiers and townspeople staring at her in astonishment.
That was when the first one lunged, pulling out a small dagger. Her eyes widened, but not before her instincts kicked in and she slammed her closed fist into his wrist. The knife was thrown from his hand and landed a few feet away. Orihime ducked in time to dodge his punch, and accidently brought her head up too quick to catch his chin with her head. He howled in pain as Orihime cradled her thumping head.
She began to flail in panic when he fell to the ground and lost consciousness, "A-Ah! Sir! Are you alright?"
"Sugoi…" The townspeople said in unison as the second guards watched in shock. Gathering her bearings, she saw the sun spill over the hilltop, and light up the castle just overhead. As she stooped down and grabbed up the small knife, she squeaked one more apology before heading in the other direction.
"Sumimasen!" She cried again as she scurried around the corner. The deck and the rope came into view, along with the few guards and bystanders. Orihime jerked to a stop as they brought a struggling Kurosaki onto the stage, his neck just right for the thick rope. Orihime's eyes bugged, and she felt her gaze sting a second later.
Even though he was a killer, and even though he was rude, she still needed him. She pushed past people, growing more desperate as the Captain placed the noose tightly around his throat. Kurosaki didn't even blink, much less move away. Just as the Hangman shoved Kurosaki's back, Orihime screamed,
"Kurosaki-san! Duck, please!"
Instantly, he jerked out of the way just in time for the knife to split through the rope. Orihime's eyes widened before she smiled widely.
"I-I did it!"
The orange-haired had his own feral, mocking grin, "Sure did, kitten."
Her smile fell, "T-That's not my na—"
"You little bitch!" A spear landed right next to her right sandal and she jolted, frightened, as the group of soldiers headed straight towards her. The townspeople shrieked and shouted in fear, scampering around wildly, creating chaos.
Kurosaki took that chance to head-butt Captain Hisagi, who instantly fell, his nose jerking from the correct socket. The Hangman slashed his sword angrily, and Ichigo bolted into the air – Orihime watched in amazement – his foot landing right in the man's jaw. She heard a bone pop out of place as the man fell with a groan. Kurosaki landed with sheer grace, like a flexing, big cat, dangerous and wild.
Pushing past the running people, Orihime found the dagger on the ground. Hisagi chose that chance to sit up, cupping one hand on his nose, "Catch the prisoner! Catch Kurosaki, dammit!"
The orange-haired grinned as the soldier's withdrew their swords, roaring out their battle-cries.
"Oi," Orihime whipped her head around to face Kurosaki-san. He had his naked back to her, and his hands were tied together. "Let me go, would you, kitten?"
Orihime didn't bother correcting him. Instead, she gazed into his eyes, his dangerous smirk, and his strong body. With one slash or one hit, he could easily kill her. She wasn't sure about anything anymore, she didn't care about a lot of things since Onii-chan died. The only way she was going to get anything out of life was taking a few risks. She bit into her bottom lip.
She was done being proper, being polite, being a Princess.
And with that, she sliced right through his bonds.
His smile widened until she thought it would crack his face in two halves. So full of malice and evil, yet intense and smooth at the same time. She nervously licked her lips, but kept a firm hold on the knife.
Better safe than sorry.
With agile indolence, Kurosaki leaned down and yanked the black sword from Hisagi's belt. Orihime's eyes widened again on her pretty face. That was the sleek black sword Kurosaki had had when he was in the shop, slaying all those men. It was even more stunning up close.
Whirling around to face the rushing, violent soldiers, Ichigo smirked once more, "Let's do this."
…
…
He fell.
She gasped, jerking around, "Kurosaki-san!"
"Dammit," he growled, thrusting his sword into the dirt to keep himself upright. He had multiple scratches all over his body, dirt, and blood. Some from other people, and his lip was cut. Blood stained his cheekbone, and he panted, shirtless, sweaty, and bloody. Timidly, Orihime walked towards him. He didn't appear to have any broken bones, but she was sure he'd bruised him ribs fighting with one of the guards.
"Are y-you alright?"
He cracked a wry grin, "Does it look like I'm okay, kitten?"
She blinked, "Not very much."
He stood up, and she jerked in surprise as his dark eyes met her large ones. He held her gaze for a few seconds before lazily place the black, sleek sword on his shoulder, "Why the hell did you do that?"
His mood swings are terrible.
Orihime bit her bottom lip and fidgeted, "U-Um…well, you see…"
"You don't look very dumb, but you act like it," he stated, "Why would you save someone like me?"
"I-I told you," she muttered, "I need your help."
He crooked his orange brows, standing straight now. Orihime darted her eyes to the village. It was very, very far away now, so far, she couldn't see anything but the castle she used to live in, breathe in, do everything in. The guards were probably still after them, and she was surprised Kurosaki-san could run this far with her, due to his injuries, but he gave no complaints.
"Hey," he grunted, and she blinked back into the outer world, "Don't act ditzy now. Tell me."
"Eeh? So that means you'll actually do it for me?" She clenched her hands together nervously.
"Tch," he turned his face away, "You saved my damned life. I might be fucking ruthless, but I owe you something. I stick to things, ya know. And besides," he glanced at her, his mouth going down in the corners, "I don't like to kill women."
Orihime's heart picked up in speed, "Oh."
"Yeah," he said, "Tell me."
"Well," she began apprehensively, "I need help finding someone."
His eyebrows crooked once more, "Finding someone? Look, lady, I'm not a detective."
Her hands waved in front of her swiftly, "N-No! Not exactly just finding him. I need you to help me locate him, and I'll do the rest."
He frowned. "You're going to kill him?"
A frown also went across her pretty face, "Kurosaki-san, killing is not all you can do for revenge."
"So this is about revenge?"
Placing her hand on the sapphire flowers, hidden in her kimono, she nodded, "Yes."
"And how do we identify this guy?"
She put a finger underneath her chin, as if to think, "…I don't know."
His glare hardened, "What the hell do you mean?"
Smiling brightly, she shook her head, "I'll know when I see him, Kurosaki-san."
He stared at her for a few seconds, scowling, "…You really are an idiot, aren't you?"
Her eyes snapped open. "E-Eh?" Pouting unhappily, she shook her head again, "I am actually very smart, Kurosaki-san. I can read and write very well, and my friends usually say I have very good eating habits."
Ichigo's scowl deepened, "What kind of friends do you have?"
"All kinds!" She exclaimed excitedly, "Like my bear—"
"—bear?"
"—and my leprechaun and my lucky rabbit, but I didn't want to chop off his foot because that would be mean, and Tatsuki-chan, and the little blue men that follow me around all the time, and I tell them not to, but—E-Eh? Kurosaki-san! Where are you going?"
She followed after him.
"Fuck this shit," he grunted, "You talk too damn much."
"B-But we had deal,"
"See ya, kitten." He ran, quick and agile, far away from her. Orihime gasped in surprise and then took off after him.
"That's not my name, Kurosaki-san!"
"Dammit, quit following me!"
"My name is Orihime. Please refrain from calling me kitten—" Orihime jerked to a stop when his sword was suddenly at her throat. Her lips trembled as her heart plummeted down to her stomach. Hard brown eyes locked with her large, honey eyes.
"I said I didn't like to kill women, not that I wouldn't, kitten," he nearly growled at her, his voice deep, low, and smooth. "Don't mistake me. I'll help you with this, but as soon as this shit is over, I'm gone, got it?"
To his surprise, she smiled softly, "Hai, Kurosaki-san."
Slowly, he withdrew his sword, "Great. I'm glad we have an understanding." Glancing towards the setting sun, he scowled again, "Which way is he?"
She blinked at the question before replying, "I have no idea."
"…"
"…"
"…What?"
…
…
I hope you liked it. Kurosaki is very mean, isn't he? Orihime isn't the canon, still bright and happy, but much more cunning. I would've loved her to have this kind of personality in the manga/anime.
Please review. It'll make my day.
-Star