This particular snippet is connected to the anthesis chapter. It was too easy of a plot not to use. On a side note, if you would be interested in being a beta for Libelula, please let me know. I am badly in need of one. I would prefer someone with solid grammar skills and who is familiar with the Bleach plot up until the Karakura Town arc. I hope that doesn't sound too stuck-up, but I am very particular about my grammar and, well, it helps if you know your Bleach! Anyway, as always, I dearly acknowledge Tite Kubo for his compelling characters.
Dendrochronology
1. the science dealing with the study of the annual rings of trees in determining the dates and chronological order of past events.
"The drill," Orihime squeaked, placing the tool before her T.A.
Misplaced for weeks, the drill was a standard tool for sampling tree rings in usual dendrochronology fashion. Her sharp eyes discovered it in a forgotten corner of the botany lab.
Ulquiorra glanced at it, then at her. Her stomach flipped when his piercing gaze lingered, but he gave no word of thanks.
As she turned to leave, his voice startled her.
"You've shown some competence. The board will receive a fitting review of you."
She mumbled her appreciation and scurried out before he could see scarlet emerging on her cheeks.