Chapter 3 of Painful Attachment Uploaded! I have to admit I didn't think the story would be as popular as it is, but I'm happy about that. Anyways I hope you enjoy the chapter and let me know what you think. Also I uploaded the next chapter of Yamada Clan for anyone interested. Happy Holidays. Italics= thoughts, "Dialogue, Place and/or time or word emphasis.

As Soifon shunpo'd her way through the streets she was careful to cradle Hanataro's body in her arms, lest she drop or wake the medic. She traveled through the corridors, her eyes darting to the shadows half expecting assassins to leap and attack her. She knew it was half foolish to think this way, the idea of an assassin attacking her was preposterous, but still considering a noble house was involved she couldn't allow herself to be caught unaware.

Flashing into view in front of the 2nd division she saw her lieutenant waiting outside the entrance, a nervous look on his face. Seeing her arrive he went to address her.

"Captain, Captain Kuchiki and Lieutenant Abarai dropped off a group of prisoners at the maggots nest. What should I do with them?" Soifon knew by them he meant Hanzo.

"The eleventh division members can be put in with the rest of the populace. As for Hanzo" Omaeda gulped at the venom she used in that name "Put him in solitary confinement until Captain Yamamoto is consulted on the matter." Omaeda nodded before looking at Hanataro, as if noticing him for the first time.

"Uh Captain who's the kid? Is he another prisoner?" No sooner had he asked this then he felt his captain's foot smash into his face. Flying into the wall he groaned, watching the captain stride by like nothing happened.

"What did I do this time?" Soifon stopped, giving her lieutenant a cold gaze. "This is Ha- 7th seat Hanataro Yamada; he is both the victim and a witness to the attack. At Captain Unohana's request he will be a guest of the 2nd division until the matter is put to rest. That reminds me, I want you to arrange a protection squad for him when I'm not around, omega squad members only."

Omaeda's eyes widened at this, knowing this squad was made up of members that had Soifon's ultimate trust. He wanted to ask more, but remembering his swelling nose he decided to simply nod. As she was leaving he saw a box had dropped out of her sleeve when she kicked him. He picked it up and yelled out to her.

"Captain, you dropped your box." He saw his captain stop, then marched back to him with stiff strides. Extending her hand he placed the box back in it, to which she silently turned and walked away. Sighing he turned to take care of his orders.

"Thanks Omaeda." Unable to believe his ears he turned round his jaw gaping like a fish, but she was already gone. Did she just… naaaa it couldn't be. Better go take care of this before I find myself tied up and surrounded by tigers. Again. He shuddered at the memory, then disappeared from sight.

Meanwhile Soifon had just entered her apartment, relieved to be back somewhere she knew was secure. Heading towards the bedroom she opened the room, noticing the sheets were already changed. He must have taken care of it before he left. Lowering the medic onto the bed. She walked off to the side of the room, placing their zanpakuto's against the wall, while she stripped discarded her jacket and shoes, leaving just her stealth uniform on. She was just about to lay down when she saw the box placed on the bedside. Opening it up she took the pendant out, admiring the craftsmanship. She debated putting it back in the box.

Screw it. She thought as she put the necklace on. Walking over to the bed she laid down across from him, being careful not disturb him. As her vision faded the last thing she saw was a faint smile before she slipped away from the waking world.


Next morning

As Hanataro returned to consciousness he became aware of that he was lying somewhere soft, although he felt sore all over his body. As he began to remember the events of last evening he felt something on the bed shifting close to him. Opening his eyes he saw Soifon laying in front of him, her back pointed towards him as she tossed and turned in her sleep. Sweat was visible down her back and her face was contorted in fear, tears running down her face.

Reaching over he shook her shoulder, trying to wake her up. The moment he touched her shoulder she began thrashing and kicking trying to break away.

"Soifon it's me Hanataro, your just having a nightmare, please wake up." Soifon's eyes snapped open, her movements slowing down. She gave out a shiver, remembering it was only a dream.

"I apologize if I woke you Hanataro, I was just having a nightmare. It's nothing to fret over."

"Do you want to talk about? It could help-"

"I don't want to talk about it. Leave it alone Hanataro." Soifon cut him off, her cold demeanor snapping back into place. Upon seeing his hurt expression she immediately regret it, guilt going through her as he lowered his head in a nod. Putting an arm around him she went to comfort him.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to snap. It's just a bad memory I'm not ready to talk about yet." Hanataro gave a small sniffle, but raised his head a little bit. Soifon decided now was as good a time as any to bring up yesterday.

"Hanataro, the men who were beating you yesterday were arrested, as well as Hanzo. Their being held until proper justice has been dealt out. However I need to know what happened yesterday, especially in regards to your interaction with the attackers." Hanataro looked a little ashamed by this, but went ahead anyway.

"I-I was coming back from the 11th division and was just passing through the ninth when they attacked. The two 11th members, they held me while Ha-Hanzo beat and insulted me. For the most part everything was going as it usually does, unti-" Soifon cutoff him off, a serious expression on her face.

"What do you mean as usual, are you saying this has happened before?" Hanataro looked down, a depressed expression on his face.

"I'm surprised by your question Soifon, I thought it was common knowledge. The 4th division has consistently been a target of hazing, assaults and even worse incidents over the past centuries. The largest source of the abuse comes from the 1th, but it doesn't end there, besides the 12th division we're pretty much treated like the pariahs of Soul Society. Unfortunately things have gotten worse since Captain Zaraki took over."

"Are you saying Kenpachi encourages this sort of behavior?" Hanataro quickly shook his head continuing with his explanation.

"It's not that he encourages it, if anyone does this it's probably Ikkaku. No it's that he doesn't really notice it, he's so intent on finding a good fight they pretty much run around uncontrolled. The previous captain allowed it to happen, but from what Captain Unohana tells me he could be forced to discipline his troops. How many people do you think can force Captain Zaraki do anything he doesn't want to do?"

Soifon did think about this and she could only think of three people capable of this. Captain Yamamoto courtesy of his grouchy demeanor, Captain Unohana with the dreaded smile and finally his sugar addicted lieutenant. Anyone else would likely be sliced into sushi and served to the division.

"But you said the 11th aren't the only offenders. What other divisions participate in this as well?" Hanataro gave a sigh at this question.

"A better question would be who isn't involved with this. The 13th is probably the only one that doesn't get involved, considering Captain Ukitake's illness and their friendship. The 8th and 12th also generally leave us alone. Besides them the harassment can come from anywhere." Soifon looked at him with an uncomfortable expression on her face.

"Would you include my division amongst those involved Hanataro?" While Hanataro did not have really any experience with women, could sense the potential danger in this question. Soifon despite her cold attitude towards them cared for her division members, and wouldn't have them slandered.

"Please understand Soifon I'm not trying to insult your division or any other, it's just… many 4th division members as well as myself have been attacked by members of most if not all divisions. We don't really know who to trust and not trust outside of the 4th and 11th respectively. As to your division, I don't think they physically assault anyone, but there have definitely been some pranks in the past I couldn't see anyone outside of this division besides officers being able to pull them off." Thinking he was done talking, Soifon was about to speak again when he said something that made her blood run cold.

"Although if someone from your division was attacking people, it's not like any of us would ever know or see it coming." Soifon's expression was grim, various scenarios already running through her head. She was confident the people under her were upholding the laws and conduct of the Seireitei, the few times someone had broken them they were severely punished.

Still, it's not something to push aside straight away. Hanataro has no reason to lie, perhaps I should snoop around a little, just to make sure. As she began thinking this out she felt Hanataro give her shoulder a little shake, bringing her back into reality.

"Oh sorry, I was a little, uh preoccupied. Anyways we're getting off track here. Please finish telling me what happened."

As the story went on two things were happening to those in the room. First as the story went on Hanataro and Soifon's moods became darker, Hanataro more depressed and Soifon more enraged. By the time he finished it was all she could do to not go into the Maggots Nest and finish what she started with that man's arm. Hanataro on the other hand felt ashamed that two unseated men were able to overpower him so easily.

The second thing was they were being watched. Yoruichi sat in a tree near the compound, peering into the window of the apartment. While she couldn't hear what they were saying she had long since passed the need to, being able to read their lips and body postures. As the story continued on her expression remained emotionless, but to the trained eye one could see her lips a thin line. It was ironic at this moment how similar she and her protégé looked.

Back in the room Soifon was just coming out of her revenge fantasy when she saw the state Hanataro was in, unable to look her in the eye, his gaze firmly planted on the floor. Putting her hand under Hanataro's chin she picked up his head, drawing his gaze to hers.

"Listen to me Hanataro, what happened yesterday was not your fault, what those disgraces to men did was inexcusable and they will not get away with it this time." Hanataro looked into her eyes, moisture beginning to gather in his eyes.

"But if I was stronger, if I could fight like them than instead of being so weak-" He was cutoff as Soifon slid her hand up his face, silencing him.

"Hanataro you are not weak. You allowed yourself to get beaten to protect something you cared about. You helped Ichigo save Rukia when none of us had a clue what was going on, and you aided our people in Hueco Mundo during the war. If you're not brave then frankly no else is either."

Hanataro was no longer moving, raptured by the woman's words. The events of the last day or so had pushed him close to his breaking point, to many things both good and bad were happening for him to be able to deal with properly. He was on the edge, and with just a little bit more…

"It's easy to be tough when you have both power and friends to back you up. You stood up for your beliefs despite standing against people stronger than you as well as your comrades. I don't know many people willing to do that."

She was going to say more but found herself caught off guard when Hanataro began crying. Soifon quickly wrapped her arms around him, pulling the boy into a tight hug as she rubbed circles into his back, trying to soothe him as much as possible. As he hugged her back she separated the distance between them.

"I wanted to thank you for the gift Hanataro, it's quite beautiful." Hanataro looked up, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips.

"But I need you to promise me something okay?" When Hanataro nodded yes she continued. "If something like this happens again, give them what they want as opposed to resisting them, they could have killed you." Hanataro pulled away his eyes widening.

"Bu-But they were go-going to break the necklace, I couldn't just…" Soifon sighed, understanding the medic's position. "I understand why you did it Hanataro, but you mustn't do it again. Your life is worth more than that and it would hurt those around you more to lose you like that. So promise me okay?"

Hanataro looked a little glum at this request, but nodded his head to show he would obey. Not liking to see him feel glum, decided to cheer him up (And herself as well).

"However because you were so brave, it would only be appropriate to properly award you." Hanataro found himself gently yanked forward as she pressed her lips to his. His eyes took on a half lidded expression of pleasure as the two fell to the bed. Soifon lay above Hanataro, being careful to put too much pressure on the sore boy. Hanataro on the other hand ignored the pain, what he was getting more than made up for it.

Yoruichi watched this from the tree side, a smile having graced her lips for the first time today. Well done my young protégé, you've taken a big step today as a person, even if you don't realize it. She was about to depart to share what she saw with Unohana when she felt a familiar pair of reiatsu signals approaching the division. Looking over she saw Byakuya and Rukia walking down the road, the latter's arms filled with a couple boxes.

Lil Byakuya along to spoil the fun once again, I'll need to teach that boy to relax once in a while. Oh well I better let the two not get caught unaware. Pulling a small pebble from her sleeve she chucked it at Soifon's apartment door, before shunpoing in front of the approaching two.

"Rukia-san, lil Byakuya how's it going? Here to see Bee-chan I take it?" Byakuya nodded a t the cat woman despite the way his eyes suddenly slanted. "Yes I'm here to see Captain Soifon, but I've also come to collect you as well." Yoruichi grinned at this, crossing her arms over her chest and leaning against the corridor wall.

"I always knew your heart yearned for me Kuchiki; tell me when the wedding is set?" A tick mark appeared on his forehead, but he continued regardless.

"It's not me that wants to see you; this request comes from the Shihouin clan." Yoruichi scoffed, turning her gaze from the two. "I've ignored those old geezers who dare to call themselves my elders, why would I listen now?"

"This request doesn't come from them. It comes from your father." Yoruichi looked back at him, a serious expression on her face. "You don't say."

As this scene was playing itself out, Soifon lifted her lips from Hanataro at the sound of the rock hitting her door. Hanataro was in a dazed state, only aware the kissing had ended.

"Uh Soifon, is everything alright?" Soifon didn't answer for a moment, stretching her spiritual tracking up. Outside the apartment she felt the Kuchiki siblings as well as Yoruichi-sama's, which was the most surprising as she usually hid her spiritual pressure without even knowing it.

"Captain Kuchiki and Yoruichi-sama are outside the apartment I guess they're here to talk. We shouldn't keep them waiting." Standing up she helped Hanataro stand up and straighten his Shihakusho, while doing the same to herself. Once she put on her captains coat and Zanpakuto on, she and Hanataro headed to the front door. Before they left Soifon remembered her conversations with Unohana the day before.

"Before we go I thought you should know your captain and Lieutenant know about us." Hanataro's face became a mix of surprise and fear. "I didn't tell them anything I swear."

He was on the verge of a panic attack when Soifon put her hand on his shoulder a small chuckle, placing a quick peck on his cheek.

"I know you didn't Hanataro, they figured it out on their own. I just didn't want you to get surprised by them later. Now shall we?" Give a nervous nod yes, they opened the door and headed outside.

The waiting shinigami turned to the approaching pair. Soifon walked up to the pair, her face set in its usual stoic expression while Hanataro trailed behind by a few steps a little intimidated to be near two head nobles.

"Captain and Lieutenant Kuchiki, I'm surprised to see the two of you together here. Is there something you need?" Soifon asked this while Hanataro remained silent, his nervousness kicking in.

"Yes, as you're probably aware I'm here in regards to the events of yesterday. Captain Yamamoto wants to see both of us as well as Captain Unohana to give an initial report before he decides how to handle this situation. I assume you have seat up proper accommodations for the witness?" While he may have said accommodations all both head and former head of the second knew he meant bodyguards.

"Yes I've taken care of it; Hanataro will be staying here till the matter is put to rest. May I ask why Lieutenant Kuchiki is here?" She turned to the violet eyed colored lieutenant, a curious expression on her face.

"Oh captain Unohana gave me some of his clothes and belongings to give to him, as well as some candy from my Captain." She held up the aforementioned items while giving the medic across from her a reassuring grin. For reason's Soifon generally only associated with Urahara, she suddenly felt the need to wipe the smile off the (slightly) shorter woman's face.

"And why are you here Yoruichi-sama? Were you coming by to visit me or is something happening in the human world?" Yoruichi looked at her protégé, a smile replacing her serious look.

"I came to check on you my little bee, but it looks like I have some business to attend to hear so I'll be here for a few days." Soifon developed a slight blush at the thought of being able to spend a few days with her idol. Yoruichi noticed Hanataro standing back, looking nervous as hell. Walking up to him she saw him straighten his back, trying to appear respectful.

"So you're Hanataro Yamada. Unohana-san's spoken quite highly of you just so you know." Hanataro beamed a little at this, happy to receive his captain's praise. He was surprised when her hand went to the top of his head, turning him side to side. His cheeks grew red as she inspected him like a piece of merchandise.

"You're not as tall as your brother was, and your features are a little different. Give it a few years however and you'll be a lady-killer like he was."

Hanataro's face was now as red as a tomato, while Yoruichi shot Soifon a knowing glance, making her feel a little embarrassed. Byakuya saw the state she was putting the two in and decided to come to their rescue. Clearing his throat he brought everybody's attention to him.

"We shouldn't keep the Captain Commander waiting, considering the current situation it might be good for you to come as well Yoruichi."

Taking her hands from Hanataro she nodded, and walked up besides Byakuya. Soifon responded in the same way, only stopping when she noticed Rukia wasn't following them. She turned to her, an annoyed expression barely recognizable on her face.

"Was there something else you needed Lieutenant Kuchiki before we head out?" Being a little caught off guard by the question, Rukia responded none the less. "Yes I was wondering since Hanataro can't leave the compound, if some of his friends and I could visit him? We haven't talked to him in the last few weeks and it would be nice to catch up."

Soifon was about to tell her that wouldn't be wise, due to the potential security risks involved (I'm not jealous damn it) but found herself beaten to the punch by Yoruichi.

"I'm certain my bee-chan wouldn't have any problem letting his friends come visit. Isn't that right Soifon?" For a moment she found she couldn't answer, caught between her romantic feelings and her devotion to her master. After an invisible struggle her older attachment won the day.

"Certainly not, I'm sure we can accommodate them quite nicely. It would be my pleasure Yoruichi-sama. Just give me their names and I'll give them to the guards."

Taking a list from Rukia she snapped her finger, five ninja's jumping into view. Handing the list to them the group bowed to her, and then disappeared from sight. Walking over to Hanataro she handed him a black and orange omega symbol.

"While I'm gone you'll have a small detail watching over you. Each member of my squad is required to carry a symbol like this, known only to me, my lieutenant and other members of their squad. If any approach you tell them to present their badge, those guarding you will carry the same one as yourself. Only trust those with this marking understand?"

When he nodded yes she simply turned away and headed off towards the first division, falling in step with the other two, leaving the younger shinigami alone. For a moment both of them stood there uncertain what to do. After a minute of awkward silence Rukia walked towards Soifon's residence, indicating for Hanataro to follow.


1st Division

As the three captains entered the outer layer of Yamamoto's office they were greeted by his lieutenant Chojiro. Giving a small but respectful bow top the three he lead them through the hall to one of the more private meeting halls. Knocking on the door his captain called for him to open the door, allowing the group in.

Standing at the head of the hall Captain Yamamoto waited, his mere presence exuding strength despite his lost arm. Close by Captain Unohana and her Lieutenant was standing by as well. Chojiro shut the doors as the three entered the hall behind him.

"Now that we have all gathered here, I would like a report on the situation. Captain Soifon, you may begin whenever you're ready." Soifon nodded, pulling the witness account from her sleeve. Just as she was about to begin speaking there was a loud commotion coming from outside the door. They heard Chojiro's voice filter into the room.

"Please sir you can't go in there, this meeting was called specifically for-. " No more was said as the doors slammed inward and an old man in a red kimono strode into the hall, flanked by two guards. On his shoulder he bore the Akihiro symbol and across his belt was a red Zanpakuto. In human age he looked like he was just entering his mid fifty's, his hair being a dull grey. Yamamoto looked at the man with a cross expression.

"Ryoi Akihiro, what is the meaning of entering my meeting hall both unannounced and armed?" The man in the kimono gave a huff at this, both an angry yet tired expression on his face. He responded to the demand in a raspy voice.

"Captain Yamamoto, I've just been informed by my sources that my son Hanzo is currently being held in the Maggot's Nest. I demand you release him to me immediately." Yamamoto gave a frown at this, his eyes opening to stare the clan head down.

"I will do nothing until I hear the charges put forth against him. You may wait with your fellow clan heads while Captain Soifon gives her report. Or you may excuse yourself from this meeting if that is your wish?"

The old man ground his teeth, but chose to sit off to the side, pulling a pipe from his sleeve to smoke. Yamamoto was annoyed at this feeble defiance, but chose to ignore it while turning his gaze to Soifon. Feeling everyone's eyes on her she began giving her report.

"At around 3 o'clock I was traveling through the 8th division when I felt 7th seat Hanataro Yamada's reiatsu begin to fluctuate wildly. Upon feeling this I immediately headed towards his location, with Captain Kuchiki and Lieutenant Abarai following. Upon arriving we found Hanzo Akihiro standing by as two members of the 11th beating him with their sheaths. It was at this point the Lieutenant and I apprehended the two members while Captain Kuchiki apprehended Hanzo who fled the scene. They took the prisoners to the Maggot's Nest while I brought Yamada to the 4th." Finishing her own account she stopped speaking, waiting for Yamamoto to speak.

"Captain Unohana, what condition was the boy brought to the 4th in?" Captain Unohana stepped forward, a serious expression on her face.

"His injuries were quite severe he was covered in numerous welts and bruises, some of his ribs were broken and his limb bones fractured. The damage was not life threatening but if the attack had continued I believe it could have been." Yamamoto nodded his head to the healer, and then turned his attention back to Soifon.

"What is your personal opinion in regards to this attack? Was there any provocation or reason behind it?" Soifon shook her head, a frown tugging at her lips, something that didn't go unnoticed by the old captain.

"As far as I can see, this attack was completely unprovoked and, after having talked to Yamada-san, I doubt it's the first time this has happened. That's something I would like to discuss later at a captains meeting later this week." Yamamoto sighed at this, having expected the answer but still not liking it.

"Lord Akihiro, Lord Kuchiki do either of you have anything to add in regards to your opinion of Hanzo? I have not personally met him so I know little of his personality or motivations. As his father and captain respectively you would be best to consult on this matter." Lord Akihiro stepped forward, his expression a little perplexed about how to describe his son.

"I have done my best to bring Hanzo up as an honored member of the nobility but it hasn't always been easy. His mother has been the one to raise him, myself too busy with clan matters and the royal court. Not that he needed my help my son is highly intelligent and has the potential for greatness. He has gotten into trouble a few times before, but nothing like this. I can't believe he would be capable of this." Finishing his sentence he stepped back, a hopeful expression on his face. This would disappear however as Byakuya stepped forward, a serious expression on his face.

"What Lord Akihiro says is true, Hanzo is above the average shinigami in terms of both power and intelligence, but he has developed an arrogance present in many of today's nobles. Multiple times I have caught him either abusing his position or bullying others. Lord Akihiro requested I take him under my wing in the hope that I could curb this behavior, but I'm afraid I have failed. He share's many of the same characteristics as Koga Kuchiki, so much so it's quite disturbing. The fact he drew his sword against me, unknowing or not is also concerning."

Akihiro looked at his opposing head clan in horror, his sources obviously not having learned this detail. Yamamoto felt sympathy for the man, but knew he had to ask this next question. He needed to know what threat the man potentially posed to the Soul Society

"Captain Kuchiki, do you feel that Hanzo could be reprimanded accordingly? I would hate to see such power potential go to waste."

As expected he felt the reiatsu's of Unohana and Isane spike, however lightly, at the thought of Hanzo simply being let off. What he didn't expect was a similar rise in both Kuchiki as well as in Soifon. Such interest in regards to the personal justice of a young whippersnapper, how interesting.

"I would not discount the possibility just yet, but my hopes for it grow lower and lower. As of now he is similar to Captain Mayuri, one who can be useful if handled properly. However unless he loses his particular elitist attitude I fear there's no hope for him."

Yamamoto motioned to Akihiro, giving him the signal that if there was anything he wanted to say, now was the time. Akihiro stepped forward, his earlier anger replaced by the fear of the potential mess his son had gotten himself into.

"I would ask for leniency in this matter regarding Hanzo. He is my only child and thus the heir to my clan. Any change to that position could have Disaster not just for us but for the Soul Society itself. If restitution can be made I would do so without hesitation. Lord Kuchiki ask for anything and if it's in my power you'll get it."

Byakuya looked back at him, feeling sympathy for the man. At the same time he remembered how Hanataro had been willing to die for Rukia's sake, and how Hanzo had been so quick to draw his blade.

"Hanzo may have broken a law in regards to me, but it is Unohana's subordinate who truly suffered at the hands of your son. The boy your son attacked is not only a friend of my adopted sister, but is also friends with the Shiba clan with whom you do much business with, as well as many other powerful people. If Hanataro Yamada and you can come to an agreement I will consider restitution. Otherwise my honor will not allow me to take such a deal." Akihiro gave a nod at this, understanding this was both a proposition as well as a warning. Yamamoto had heard enough, bringing his cane down to the floor.

"I have decided on the proper course of action in regards to this case. As the two 11th division shinigami are of common birth and clearly implicit in the attack, they will be returned to their captain to be punished accordingly. As for Hanzo there are a few details we need to take care of. Lord Akihiro, do you still wish to have your son released despite the claims against him?" For a moment Akihiro looked unsure, but decided to nod his head yes.

"In that case I'll be willing to release him on two conditions. The first of which is he will be confined to your estate and will wear reiatsu cuffs and a tracking symbol from the 12th. Until the matter is resolved we cannot risk him trying to finish the job. Second the Akihiro clan will be held responsible if he disappears or refuses to show for his trial at Central 46. Do you understand the implications of these conditions?" Akihiro understood this as did the different captains/former captains in the room.

"Then in that case you may collect Hanzo as early as tomorrow. Unohana how long will your subordinate need to fully recover?" Unohana answered a true smile on her face since the preceding began.

"I would give him at least a week to recover, his injuries have been healed but he shouldn't push himself so soon."

"In that case the trial will be set in three weeks' time, during which you can attempt to negotiate with Hanataro after the first week. I would recommend to everyone here to use this time wisely, is that understood?" All gathered gave a nod of acknowledgement, understanding the potential consequences.

"Then this meeting is finished with. All captains will be expected to attend a mandatory meeting in three days' time to discuss this as well." Having said this the old captain and his lieutenant left the room, as did Byakuya and Akihiro. Unohana walked up to Soifon a smile on her face.

"I figured we'd check in on my officer if that was okay with you? We've even got some gifts for him from the members of his division for us to snack on." Soifon nodded at this, having a difficult time resisting the smell wafting from the package on her comrade's hand.

"That should be fine; Yoruichi-sama would you like to join us as well?" Yoruichi looked tempted, but regretfully shook her head no.

"I've got a meeting with my father to attend to, sorry. I'll drop by later if it's not too late. See you Unohana-san, bee-chan." She disappeared from view, leaving the three women to start heading back to the 2nd.


Soifon's Apartment

"You're kidding me; you used Hanataro as a grappling hook? What the hell made you think that was a good idea?"

"We'll I wouldn't have had to if my original hook hadn't broken and I can't use shunpo, so I had to improvise. What you think you could have done any better?" Ganju said this with a stern expression on his face.

"Please I'm sure a trained chimpanzee could have thought of something that didn't involve using a person like a climbing tool." Rukia said from across the table, the two glaring at each other.

"Now now there's no need to bicker among friends, that's such an unseemly thing to do. Isn't that right Hanataro?" The boy in question gave a nervous chuckle, hiding behind the bag of candy from Ukitake.

"I-I'm sure there just having fun, they don't actually mean what their saying." He suddenly found himself out in the open, the bag of candy having been swiped from his hands.

"YAY CANDY. THANKS DROOPY-CHAN!" Yachiru yelled this out as she and Rin helped themselves to the treats, the two having bonded over their love of treats.

"Now Yachiru that's not nice to take someone else's candy. Don't you think you should give it ba…?"

He trailed off as the two gave him a frighteningly similar glare, just daring him to try. Besides the group at the table Renji and Rikichi were also in the room, the former helping himself to some of Soifon's sake while trying to fend off the latter's questions. Kira Izuru and Nemu Kurostuchi were also in the room, although they were silent for the most part except for an occasional comment from Kira and the flash of a camera from Nemu. And despite what it did to his nerves, Hanataro couldn't contain a small smile from his lips.

"Hey Hanataro, let me ask you something. What's it like living with Captain Soifon?" This question of course came from Renji, which drew the attention of everyone onto Hanataro. The boy unused to all the attention struggled to find an appropriate thing to say.

"W-Well I can't re-really say. I mean I-I've only been her si-since last night and mo-most of that was spent kn-knocked out. But she's been very nice to me so far." Hanataro did his best to speak non-descriptive to avoid more questions. Sniffing the air he stood up, motioning to the kitchen.

"I think the Unagi is nearly done cooking. Please wait here and I'll go get it." Despite his sore muscles he quickly stood up and exited the room."

While most of the people accepted this answer and went back to what they were doing, Rukia's eyes slanted in suspicion. She noticed Hanataro had gotten nervous when asked that question, and had only been able to speak succinctly when talking about the master assassin. He also seemed to be in a hurry to end the conversation. Excusing herself from the table she went into the kitchen after him. Hanataro had just pulled the eel from the boiler when he noticed her enter.

"Ah Rukia-san, is everything alright?" Rukia gave off her fake cheery smile, deciding to probe him a little.

"Oh I'm just fine Hanataro; I just remembered I hadn't put your things away for you. Where are you sleeping?" She noticed he went a little pale, while his reiatsu fluctuated slightly. "Oh just in the gu-guest room, it's the first be-bedroom to the right." Smiling cheerily she picked up his clothes and entered the room.

Looking around it looked like it could be a bedroom; it was fairly devoid of anything besides a bed, closet and dresser. Placing the items on the bed she pulled out one of his shihakushos and opened up the dresser. Upon seeing the black and yellow panties in the drawer, she felt her cheeks blush hard upon realizing she had opened Captain Soifon's underwear drawer. She quickly shut the drawer, embarrassed beyond all belief. Hornet color style, somehow that's not surprising. That beating must have scrambled his brain a little; he must have meant the other bedroom.

Turning to grab his things, she had just picked them up when she stopped dead in her tracks, the items tumbling from her arms. There resting against the wall was Hanataro's zanpakuto. Keep it together Rukia, there's obviously a logical explanation to this. Just go to the other room and everything will be explained. Leaving his stuff in a pile on the bed she headed out into the hallway to the only other room she hadn't been in besides the bathroom she took hold of the door handle and yanked it open. Where a mop promptly fell onto her head.

What the hell, this isn't a bedroom it's her broom closet. Removing the mop from atop her head she marched back into the living room, a determined expression on her face. Entering the living room she saw they were just starting to snack on the eel sticks Hanataro made.

"Oh there you are Rukia we were just about to… Rukia you know there's lint in your hair right?" She turned to him with her happy face on, one that made Renji immediately shut up. "That's nice Renji. Hanataro I'd like to talk to you for a moment please."

Not giving him a chance to answer she plucked him up by his shirt and half led/ half dragged the poor boy to Soifon's room, where she deposited him on the bed. Reaching over she plucked up his zanpakuto, waving it in front of her. At the sight of the blade Hanataro began trembling, his instincts telling him he was in trouble.

"Hanataro, can you tell me why your blade is in Captain Soifon's room? I noticed it when I brought your things in here." Hanataro's mind was scrambling to find a way out of this. For some reason it decided lying was the best course.

"Well uh, So-Captain Soifon mu-must have br-brought it in here la-last night. I'll ta-take it ba-back to the gue-guest room." Reaching forward to grab it he found it was lifted out of his reach, while Rukia's face was set in an expression eerily similar to her brothers.

"Drop the act I saw the other "guest room". Soifon can be tough, but I doubt she makes you sleep in a broom closet. You do know it's not wise to lie to me right?" Hanataro gave a sullen nod at this, having gone from happy to miserable in the span of five minutes. Noticing her friend's emotional state she sighed, knowing she was acting a little cruel.

"Look I'm sorry if I'm making you feel bad, but you're my friend and I don't like it when friends lie to me. I want to know, why are you keeping secrets from me, is it something bad? If it is I can help you deal with it." Hanataro shook his head no, trying to reach for the sword again.

"I-It's nothing bad, bu-but I can't te-tell you, I ma-made a pro-promise." Rukia gave a sigh at this, knowing she wasn't going to get anything more out of him. "Are you sure it's nothing bad, nothing you should be keeping to yourself?" He nodded at this, his eyes beaming with honesty. Rukia accepted this, putting the sword back against the wall.

"Alright just remember you can always talk to me if you need it. Now let's go back to the living room, hopefully they won't have scarfed all the food yet." Hanataro nodded at this, following Rukia back in the room.

As soon as they entered everyone looked up at them, wondering what the conversation was about. As the two sat down Renji looked up to ask only to be silenced by Rukia's hand. Living in the 78th district the two had learned to communicate to each other silently. Right now she was signaling Not now, we'll talk later. Renji frowned at this, but knew better than to push her, deciding instead to bite into his untouched Unagi. When did this his eyes widened, quickly stuffing the rest of it down his throat.

"Damn Hanataro this is delicious, if you can cook like this I should eat with me more." Renji said this with a smile and a raise of the sake jug, not noticing the shadow appearing behind him.

"That would be most unwise for him. You'd eat all his food just like you've helped yourself to my sake. Which is not cheap by the way." A flash of light flashed out courtesy of Nemu's camera, catching Renji's face transitioning from happy to fearful.

Turning around slowly he found himself face to face with none other than the owner of said sake jug, Soifon. His hand shaking he went to put the jug down, only to find it snatched from his hand. A hand came down on Soifon's shoulder, taking her gaze from the lieutenant.

"Now Captain Soifon, I'm sure Lieutenant Abarai will compensate you for the sake he consumed. Isn't that right, Liuetenant Abarai?" Renji simply nodded his head, doing his best to avoid that horror wrenching gaze. After a minute he felt it recede and the Unohana everyone loved returned.

"Good now I'm happy you all came to spend time with my officer, but Isane and I need to do a checkup on him. Please say your goodbye's now."

As the assorted officers and shinigami went up to him, each of them gave their goodbyes in a different way. Yachiru jumped on his back and hugged him around the neck, nearly choking the poor boy before Yumichika pulled her away, a sympathetic look on his face. Ganju and Renji both gave him a firm pat on the shoulder, almost knocking the boy over, whereupon Rukia muttered an apology and grabbed the two by the ear, dragging them out. Finally the last group left without incident, minus a final picture from Nemu which left the boy blinded. Still he was kind of sad to see them go.

"I'm glad to see you have made so many friends Hanataro, and how they support you. Now how are you feeling, suffering any pain besides sore muscles or stiff joints." Hanataro shook his head no, but Unohana began probing him with a healing kido regardless, while Isane put the stethoscope to his chest. Soifon smirked at this and began cleaning up the apartment, finishing at about the same time they finished the checkup.

"Well everything seems to be fine, how about we go enjoy the Unagi and these treats from your subordinates before we all adjourn for the night. Well also take the time to explain the details of today's meeting."

Hanataro gave a large smile at this, smelling the pastries wafting from the bag she was holding. Moving to sit around the table, they began helping themselves to the leftover food and drink. Hanataro hadn't really eaten like this with anyone since his brother died, but for the first time in a long time it felt like it. He didn't know what was coming in the future, but right now he'd enjoy the present.


Seireitei Corridors

As the collected group departed from the second division, they splintered off and headed toward their own personal divisions. Eventually the group was just composed of Rukia, Renji, Yumichika and a passed out Yachiru.

"Alright now that where literally halfway across the Seireitei, will you tell us what you wanted to talk to Hanataro about." Blurted out Renji as blunt as usual. Rukia was tempted to ignore him when Yumichika decided to throw in his two cents

"I must profess a curiosity myself Rukia-san, it was rather unusual to pull him away from his friends. Especially considering we were supposed to be there to console him." Rukia turned to the two, a little embarrassed by her actions. Not that she would ever admit it.

"I know I might sound crazy, but I think he's keeping something from us. Perhaps something important." Yumichika looked at her in a serious manner, knowing full well the power a secret could hold, as well as the consequences for it being exposed. He felt his zanpakuto slightly tremble in displeasure, but he pushed it aside like always.

"That would be hard to picture, I mean Hanataro's not exactly a secret person if you know what I mean. Do you have anything besides your gut to go on this claim?"

Rukia explained how Hanataro lied to her in the kitchen, as well as the ensuing conversation (altering the part where she inadvertently became a panty raider). When she finished the two had actually stopped moving, the two stopped to contemplate this. Renji predictably broke the silence, but not in a way she expected.

"I think we should leave this alone. If Hanataro says there's nothing wrong, then we should trust him. Besides he's under Captain Soifon's protection, if she can't keep him safe who can?"

Rukia wasn't entirely certain about this point, Hanataro had been willing to sacrifice himself to buy her and Ganju an extra second to run. And while this was a noble quality, it also showed he would needlessly put himself in harm's way if he felt it was the right thing to do.

"I have to agree with Renji Rukia-san. Hanataro is like anyone else entitled to their secrets. If we see anything that causes us concern then will investigate, but for now we should respect his privacy. Trusting him is the beautiful thing to do at this moment, and to do otherwise would paint us as untrusting, an ugly quality if there ever was one."

Rukia thought about this for a moment but nodded her head, finding this to be reasonable. It would allow her to keep an eye on her friend but respect his promise. Feeling relieved she began walking towards home, the other two finally splitting apart as well.

She may not have felt so serene at the moment if she had noticed a certain busty shinigami who had been eavesdropping on the conversation.

"So the shy boy has a secret huh? I bet the SWA would love to hear about this."


Shihouin Estate

Yoruichi stood before the Shihouin Estate, a place she hadn't laid eyes on in over a hundred years. Last she saw it was like something from a storybook, a palace of comfort and pleasure. This had stayed the same for the most part, minus a few areas like the garden's being unattended. Still it was a place most people would sell their left arms for to work in it, let alone live there.

If only they knew the place was a gilded cage, pretty but confining. Pushing these thoughts away she entered the compound, walking down the path to the front entryway. A number of servants rushed out of the house, some with treats others with kimonos that would cost a fortune. All of them were there to serve their absentee mistress, and all of them were ignored to the last. There was but one man she was here to see, and he as standing at the top of the staircase.

The last time she had seen him he looked pretty much the same as he did now, His form thin and proper along with his robes and demeanor. His face set in its ever serious demeanor, not a face that was ever truly meant for laughter. His skin might have been tan at one point, but was pale now in comparison to hers. That combined with his short slowly greying purple hair would have made most people think they were seeing a ghost if not for his eyes. His eyes held the same strength that could be seen in his daughters.

The two stared at each other for a moment, her standing two steps down from him while they both stared each other down. This had been the same stance the two of them had taken the last time they'd seen each other, and neither one was ready to change. Yoruichi the uncontrollable firecracker and Mikio Shihouin her unmoving father.

"Hello Father, I see the years have been treating you well." While the words said were respectful, the tone that said them were snarky to say the least. The man simply harrumphed, turning his back and walking into the house.

"Still the insolent child. Come, there are things that we need to discuss." Yorucichi almost considered bolting just to piss him off, but discarded this. Following into what had once been her home she walked behind him, only slowing down a little when she heard the doors shut behind her. She was home, yet she had never felt more alone.


Whoot finished with chapter three. Sorry for the delay, my other story was in need of a chapter boost and exams also got in the way. Happy New Year everybody.