A/N: Thank you all for the wonderful reviews! It made me so happy to know that you enjoyed reading my story! I'm so so sorry about the overdue update! I just got done with finals and finally found a moment to write this chapter. Again, I'm sorry for the long update! Please hang in there. I hope you all continue to read my story and I hope I meet your expectations. :)

Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach.

"Who are you?" Orihime whispered frantically. Her eyes landing on the mangled body across the alley before covering her mouth. Vomit covering the floor as she gagged.

"Woman," Ulquiorra said devoid of any emotion, "you will come with me."

Orihime dug her nails into the muddied ground. Her keeled over body shaking as tears flowed down her porcelain cheeks. Her eyes shut in an attempt to block out the gruesome scene before her.

Ulquiorra examined her closely. Unfazed by her reaction, or by the bloodied innards that lay just a few feet away. The hand he used to pierce through his enemies body hanging loosely by his side covered in blood. His sensitive nose picking up the foul odors now accumulating in the alleyway.

Disgusting, Ulquiorra thought.

"Woman," he repeated taking a step forward.

Sensing his movement Orihime looked up. Her grey eyes wide with fear. Her body shrinking back until it was flush against the stone wall behind her.

"W-What do you want with me?" she replied stammering. Her white dress now soiled by the different fluids covering the ground. The blood from her wound dripping down her neck slowly. Its red tint gleaming dangerously against her pale skin.

Ulquiorra paused before taking another step. His eyes focused directly on her own. His mouth set into a firm line as he approached her.

"I have business with you," he answered.

Orihime looked around frantically for a way to escape. Her eyes darting to the left as she gauged the distance to the end of the alley. I can make it, she thought determinedly.

"Do not humor yourself human," Ulquiorra said, as if reading her mind.

Orihime stood up, her hands trembling as she held the wall behind her for support. Her body never facing away from him as she rose.

"What-" Orihime paused. Letting out a shaky breath before continuing, "What business do you have with me?"

Ulquiorra stood an arms length away from her. The close proximity of his body making Orihime shiver. A moment of silence passed between them before Ulquiorra spoke. His monotone voice echoing in the alley.

"I've been instructed to bring you to my domain. Aizen wishes to speak with you."

Orihime gasped in surprise. Her heart pounding furiously against her chest. The pain in her neck numbing as she froze.

"A-Aizen?" she asked disbelievingly.

"Yes," Ulquiorra replied, "Now, come with me woman."

Orihime clenched her right hand into a tight ball against her chest. Should she trust him? Nothing was making sense. How did he know about Aizen? And what about Urahara?

Orihime shook her head. Confusion and shock not allowing her to think clearly. She bit her lip in thought. A few seconds passing by before finally looking up again. Grey eyes clashing with dark green. Ulquiorra's stoic appearance remaining unmoved.

Before she had any time to rethink her decision Orihime used all of her strength to push against him. Sending Ulquiorra a few feet back as she ran. Her breath coming out hurried and haggard as she gasped for air. The end of the alleyway coming into view.

She was almost safe. Almost home. She could make it.

Orihime's eyes widened in shock. A loud gasp falling from her lips as a sharp pain exploded behind her head. Her vision going black as she began to fall. Large arms surrounding her body as darkness consumed her.

Ulquiorra adjusted the unconscious woman in his arms carefully before turning back into the alleyway. The sweet scent of blood invading his senses as he held her. His mouth forming into a thin line as he watched the blood trickle slowly down her neck.

Useless

He stared for a second longer before turning his attention back onto the dirty alley. Four bodies the only remains in the quiet street as he disappeared along the top of the city. His figure a blur.

"Mmmmm," Orihime let out a soft moan as she stirred. A cold draft of air causing her to shiver as her eyes fluttered open. Hushed voices and frantic footsteps disturbing her peaceful sleep. Her mind still in a state of haze as she blinked.

What happened? she thought tiredly.

A dull throb in the back of her neck caused Orihime to sit up quickly. Black spots invading her vision and causing her to grasp her head in pain as she groaned.

Memories of what transpired rushing back to her as she opened her eyes in panic. Surprise entering her face as she stared into the contents of her own room.

What? She thought confused. Was it all a dream? No, it couldn't have been. But then, why was she here? Orihime looked down at herself and then around the room. A fresh, clean chemise hugging her curves and everything in the same condition as it was before she left.

What's going on? she thought in alarm.

"LADY ORIHIME!" The worried face of a plump maid rushed to Orihime's side. Pushing her down into the bed and pulling the cover over her.

"You mustn't move around mistress!" the maid exclaimed, "You slipped down the stairs and fell unconscious. If you move around your injuries might get worse!"

Orihime only nodded. A look of doubt and relief entering her features.

"The stairs?" Orihime asked dubiously, "And does Tatsuki know about this?"

"No, no m'lady!" the maid replied hurriedly. Smoothing over the sheets and tucking her in, "We didn't want to worry her."

"Thank you," Orihime whispered appreciatively.

The maid paused briefly before fluffing a pillow, "There is no need to thank m'lady. It is my job to ensure the safety of your well-being."

Orihime smiled gently. Perhaps it was all a dream, she thought happily.

"I will bring some food up shortly," the maid said bowing, "please try to get some rest before that m'lady."

The door clicked softly and Orihime closed her eyes. Exhaustion taking hold of her body and making her sigh. Maybe I should sleep, she thought tiredly.

"Your awake," a voice droned. The familiar footsteps coming to rest at the end of her bed.

Orihime sat up in surprise.

"But I-" Orihime shook her head in disbelief, wincing slightly, "I imagined you…"

Ulquiorra slid his finger against the edge of her bed slowly. Examining the rich quilt before placing his hands coolly in his pockets.

"You did not imagine me. Did I not properly explain myself earlier woman?" Ulquiorra stated.

"That didn't happen," Orihime mumbled in denial.

Ulquiorra narrowed his eyes. His frown deepening. He was getting tired of these games.

"I will not repeat myself."

Orihime clenched her fists. Her mouth opening to protest.

"You will not speak," Ulquiorra said cutting her off, "the next word out of your mouth will be yes. Anything else and-" Ulquiorra paused to stare at her. The air in the room suffocating as he spoke, "-I will not hesitate to harm everyone in this estate. If you wish for their safety I suggest you think about your actions."

Orihime shut her eyes. Fierce tears burning behind them as she nodded. Her clenched fists turning white as her body shook.

Ulquiorra took one last glance at the girl before turning towards the door. His coat sweeping behind him as he strode.

"I will be back to pick you up tomorrow. Remember woman, your friends fate, their lives, are in your hands."

The silence that penetrated the empty room engulfed her. The only noise Orihime could hear was the sound of her own breathing as she bit her lip to stop herself from crying out. The arms she couldn't even recognize as her own shaking as she held herself. The sun lighting up the room dying out as the moon began to take its place.

Orihime didn't know what to do. How did this man even know who she was? How did he know she was looking for Aizen? None of it made sense to her.

Orihime grasped her head in pain. A headache forming as she bit back a groan. She couldn't go the authorities. Whoever this mysterious man was one thing was certain. He was dangerous. Plus, he was going to take her to Aizen, and wasn't that what she wanted? She could finally learn the truth about her brothers death.

Decision made up, Orihime opened her eyes slowly to look around the room. Calmly removing the sheets that covered her body and moving to sit against the edge of the bed.

"Miss?"

A gentle knock on the door caused Orihime to pause. She had forgotten about the maid earlier. Sighing, Orihime sat back against her pillow. Pulling down her light chemise dress and making sure she was proper before muttering a quick, "Come in."

The door opened and the maid from before entered. Her steps light as she placed a silver platter on the rooms only table. Plucking the elaborate cover off to reveal a steaming helping of food. The sweet aroma filling the room and reminding Orihime just how famished she was.

"When m'lady feels better please eat something," the maid said bowing. Her expression kind as she regarded Orihime.

"It smells delicious, thank you," Orihime replied warmly. Smiling gently at the woman while tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

The plump woman smiled back before making her exit. Lighting a candle on her way to illuminate the dull room.

Orihime remained seated. Her attention focused on the candle flickering against the floral wallpaper decorating the walls.

"…and make sure to tell Lady Tatsu…" a shrill voice resounded outside the doorway, its echo becoming dimmer before disappearing completely down the hall. Listening, Orihime waited a second longer before standing up. Taking a seat to finally admire her food.

The intoxicating scent of roast mutton and fresh bread making her salivate in anticipation. Taking her first bite, Orihime sighed in pleasure. A burst of spices, juices, and flavor invading her senses as she chewed.

Rubbing her stomach in satisfaction, while promising herself to never go hungry again, Orihime began fishing out the items she needed to pack. Stuffing a worn trunk full of gowns, toiletries and parchment while glancing at the time. Finished, Orihime turned her attention towards her reflection.

Picking up an elegant comb, Orihime began brushing out the knots accumulating in her hair. Wincing slightly when she accidentally brushed against her neck. Pausing, Orihime gently pulled her hair away. Revealing a thin red line along her neck.

I wonder who cleaned it, Orihime thought curiously.

Running her finger along the skin, Orihime's thoughts returned to the green eyed stranger.

He really is beautiful…

Shaking her head at the ridiculous thought, Orihime resumed combing her hair. Humming a soft tune as she did so.

"There! All done!" Orihime happily exclaimed. Smiling at her reflection before wrapping a white cap around her head. Tapping her chin in thought, Orihime gasped before grabbing a piece of parchment.

Gripping a quill pen in her hand, Orihime began scribbling down letters in black ink. Her hand dancing gracefully along the parchment before folding and placing it gently against the dresser.

Smiling once more at her reflection, Orihime blew out the only remaining light before laying down.

The sound of crickets resounding outside her window lulling her into a deep sleep as she closed her eyes.

Paris

December 27, 1774

Ulquiorra was always very solitary. Years of being a vampire had taught him that life moved forward regardless if he chose to keep in contact with humans. He saw no need in learning their likes or dislikes because the moment he turned his back they were already dead. Twelve feet underground. Their carcasses rotting away until flesh was nothing more than the dirt surrounding it.

Glancing to his auburn haired companion, Ulquiorra stuck out his hand, signaling for the carriage to stop. His eyebrow rising slightly at the puff of air Orihime let out when they came to a standstill. Her eyes glancing over to him before quickly looking away. A small blush and bite of her lip the only indication she was affected by his presence.

She had succeeded to ignore him the entire time they traveled. The moment she entered the compartment she had followed by avoiding his gaze and staring outside the window. Her hands fidgeting against the material of her light gown. The only conversation forming between the two erupting when she had asked for his name.

His emotionless voice answering her coolly, "Ulquiorra."

She had then nodded her head, thanked him, and then proceeded to stare out the window.

Ulquiorra was only slightly impressed by her composure. She had managed to stay within his presence without warranting any fuss. Her defiant yet strong attitude sparking an interest in him. On numerous accounts he found himself examining her. If he was still human he could say she was rather appealing. The full ample curve of her breasts, slim waist, and red voluptuous lips stirring a lust he never experienced. However, he noticed her physical features weren't the only thing that interested him.

She had proven a challenge to him. The rebellious nature she showed in the alley and in her room something Ulquiorra had never dealt with before. Most interactions Ulquiorra faced with humans resulting in their full cooperation. Yet she was different. And this thought disgusted him.

"Woman," he said, "were here."

Orihime glanced from inside the carriage to his outstretched hand. Examining it as if it was poison before tentatively reaching out. Her delicate fingers touching his palm slowly before stepping out. A blush covering her cheeks as she avoided his gaze.

"W-where are we?" Orihime asked quietly. Her eyes darting to the building in front of her. A sign marked "The Red Queen" hanging loosely above the door.

Ulquiorra ignored her. Walking past before motioning to the carriage driver.

Orihime strung her hands together. Her mouth setting into a small frown before fingering the elegant gown she wore. Perhaps she was overdressed? Saddened by this realization, Orihime followed closely behind. Keeping an arms length away from her silent companion.

"When we get inside do not talk to anyone woman. Do you understand?"

Orihime nodded. Her eyebrows furrowing in understanding. Ulquiorra waited a second longer before pushing open the door. The stench of booze and smoke invading Orihime's senses as soon as they walked in.

"Ohhh~! If it isn't my old friend!" A charismatic man exclaimed approaching them. A wide grin stretching across his face as he greeted Ulquiorra in a friendly manner. The slants of his eyes making it almost impossible for Orihime to see the color of his eyes.

"Not now Gin," Ulquiorra replied stoically.

The man named Gin frowned. A mock hurt expression adorning his face. His white, almost silver tresses falling long around his face.

"Your no fun Ulquiorra," he said pouting.

Orihime watched the two with some amusement. A smile forming at the mans unusual personality.

"Oh! And who do we have here?" Gin asked curiously. Shifting his attention to Orihime. A wide grin forming on his lips as he placed a chaste kiss against her hand in greeting. His fingers brushing gently against her bracelet before standing up fully to introduce himself.

"My name is Gin Ichimaru miss," he said bowing, "it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

Before Orihime could respond Ulquiorra stepped in front of her. A heavy silence surrounding them before Gin smirked wider. The tense atmosphere gone in seconds.

"Alright, alright. Your acting as if I'm about to attack your pet kitten," Gin joked, looking over Ulquiorra's shoulder. "I'm sure well meet again Cherie! Until next time." Raising his hand in a goodbye gesture, Gin walked past them out the door. A whistling tune leaving his lips as he passed.

Orihime studied Ulquiorra's back before sighing. I hope I meet him again.

"Follow me," Ulquiorra stated dryly. Walking past a group of men who reeked of liquor.

"Right," Orihime muttered. Her eyes trying to take in as much of the small pub before following him up a plane of stairs. The dry boards creaking as they climbed up to a second floor. The hallway they entered consisting of four doors. Two doors on each side. A giant window at the end streaming in the only source of light.

Coming to a stop in front of the last door to the right, Ulquiorra opened it before motioning for her to step inside.

"This will be your room until I make the final preparations for our departure. You are not allowed to leave unless instructed otherwise. I will come along to provide you with your meals."

Orihime looked down, her voice defeated, "Yes sir."

"Your belongings will be sent up shortly," Ulquiorra looked down at her, his hat casting a shadow against his face, "I suggest you get used to this as your new home woman. Remember, you are under my authority now."

Orihime nodded once more. Biting her lip to stop herself from lashing out at him in anger. Ulquiorra's green emotionless eyes betraying nothing as he turned.

She waited for him to close the door before looking around her small room in detest. A desk and wooden chair decorating one corner and a mid-size bed taking up most of the rooms space. A door adjacent to the one she entered led to a small wash area. One window with red curtains and a giant rug the only other decorations she saw.

Orihime walked to the bed before sitting down. Glad it was soft before taking off her heels. A sudden sadness enveloping her as she covered her face. A sob racking her small body.

Done! For those of you who noticed, I put in a lot of elements that are from the manga. For example, the bracelet and Orihime's conversation with Ulquiorra. Did you notice? :3 However, I dont plan on using any more of their interactions in the manga in my story so sorry. Well as always REVIEW! It seriously makes my day and keeps me going with the story!

Oh and thank you for all the great reviews! For those of you who asked questions you'll just have to wait for them to be answered in the story ;) hehe

Thanks for reading~!