do not claim to own anything.
6 Degrees of Separation
Chapter 7
New Arrangements
2 weeks later
Being in her usual state of mind, grumpy and severely exasperated. Soi-Fon was diligently completing her paperwork, along with overseeing the known records of Roctis Karvei. Circles, incessant circles, for the past 2 weeks she had amassed a detailed history of around 500 years ago, but no new revelations were to be made. Any coherent events were either destroyed in the passing or safely kept away. Even Taylan the Commander of the Executive Correctional Unit was unable to discover any new information. The countless hours she had spent with Byakuya scouring the Kuchiki archives seemed pointless, her vision was doubling from pure stress and exhaustion. Like a hamster on a running wheel, required to make presences in countless places, as Commander of the Stealth Force and as Lady Shihouin. Managing to avoid, any interaction with the Shihouin she was becoming more like Yoruichi by the day. Further burying her was the request effective last week; she was to meet with the Captain-General weekly with a status report on her training and condition with Captain Unohana. Currently it was manageable under the watchful guidance of Captain Unohana and the rigorous regime of Yoruichi. Suzumebachi began interacting even more freely than usual, especially after Eli calmed down. Only once before had she been under the watchful eye of the Captain-General, it was 100 years ago when Yoruichi had left. Prejudicially accused of conspiracy and betrayal, forced to deal with half assed attempts on her life in broad daylight. The leash around her neck was shortening and constricting, leaving her no room for mistakes, Yamamoto was adamant about controlling any variables.
A short while ago it was made public about his hidden surveillance device, which was installed in Kurosaki's Combat Pass. It was her idea originally but who knew he would act upon it. For the first time in her career she slammed her head against the hard surface of her grand oak desk. To her dismay there were crumbs, closely examining them they turned out to be rice crispy chips. She needed an outlet and she needed one know, who better than her lazy bum of a lieutenant. "Ooh he's gonna get it!" chimed in Suzumebachi. The over-encumbered boxes of emotions that are usually tightly kept hidden were pouring out. Viciously her eyes glimmered a vibrant crimson, "OMAEDA! Get your lazy ass in here!" she roared, pouring her pent up rage into every syllable thoroughly annunciating. As the ferocious snarl, reverberated through the walls of the division, Omaeda sensed his blood run cold, the air chilled. Stumbling through the halls of the division he forsake stealth for speed, he knew all too well that if he wanted to survive the next 24 hours in one piece he best show up on time. Incessant crashes resounded, as he hauled his oversized body, each step shook the very foundation, advancing towards the dreaded Captains room; he inaccurately gaged the speed and angle of his turn VS his weight. Skidding, he dug his heel sharply into the parquet, like a speeding 18-wheeler trying to U-turn he tipped over crashing face first into the lion's den. Gingerly he unplanted his face, expression akin to a person with a deep seeded fear of Soul King. Springing from her desk, she loomed over the cowering form of the impudent lieutenant. Incandescent crimson orbs radiated pure blood thirst, fist clenched into a steel fist, face contorted into a venomous grimace, like a beast before its prey she glowered at the disgrace below. "C-Captain…" he murmured, clutching his head in hopes of deflecting any incoming blows. As the perilous moments lingered, Soi-Fon's brow twitched, "Spit it out!" she thundered, interjecting ferociously pressuring the feeble minded man. "I-I'm so-sorry I just…" once again he chocked out half the phrase before glancing at her enraged features. Exasperated by the incessant pauses, she dug her heel into his 7th Cervical Vertebrae, causing the burly man to squeak, while desperately muffling the undignified sound with his uniform. "Just what? Spit it out before I break your back and rid myself of your presence for the rest of eternity!" threatening, a bone chilling roar resounded through the room undoubtedly heard through out the Soul Society. Brutally she once again burrowed her heel into his pressure point, blinded by pain he shrieked on an earsplitting pitch. Feeling the foot slowly unearth from his back he angled his gaze, at the demon above, unable to see her face from the suns bright glare, he knew better than to prolong his response, "I-uh um C-captain I-uh, forgot…" he whispered instantaneously turning his gaze towards the floor.
"Lets jog your memory then." Came sweet derision, veiled by underlying malice and death. Seconds later all that was heard was the sublime hum of her swords as she unsheathed them at inhuman speeds. Sensing his impeding doom loom over him, in the form of his Captain he cradled in a fetal position.
Many divisions away, Captain Unohana happened to be tending to one Captain Zaraki who had miraculously come back from a week of Hollow hunting with no breaks and food. Her even concentration, shattered by a blood-curdling scream, it was all too familiar in Soul Society. A low chuckle escaped her lips as she refocused on her healing; "Soi-Fon seems to have found a distraction." she contemplated aloud rejuvenating her impeccable healing orb. The boorish Captain just rolled his eyes as another wave jingled his bells; "At least somebody gets a good fight around here." He mumbled, low enough for Unohana not to notice.
Surging through the Soul Society, the sound wave travelled far enough to resound in the 13th Division, as Ukitake was completing his daily paper work, his pile once again terrorized. Like a whirlwind the large stacks of paper flew through out the room. His serene mint eyes, dilated and twitched irately, as he witnessed a day's work become obsolete. Suppressing the urge to aid Soi-Fon in her malicious assault on her Lieutenant he exhaled, "Omaeda never learns does he?"
After many earth shattering pounds, broken screams and many-scared shinigami, later, Soi-Fon exited her office in a better mood leaving behind the broken thing. Arms twisted behind his head, legs inverted, while his face contorted and bruised, treasured purple scarf shredded. There lay the half dead Lieutenant of squad 2, clutching the message for his Captain,
Captain Soi-Fon,
I request that you arrive at the 1st Division promptly, our biweekly meeting will have to be pushed forward, and circumstance will be discussed once you arrive
Captain-General,
Genriyusai Shingekuni Yamamoto
Before fully shitting the sliding entrance she glanced back toward the mangled body, "Oh and Omaeda the paperwork best be finished by the time I return."
Kuchiki Manor
A brilliant sunrise greeted the Kuchiki manor as two nobles, enjoyed breakfast in one of their many elaborately decorated sunrooms. The glass walls let in the sepia light color the surroundings. The grand table covered with various human world delicacies as well as the standard healthy assortment. At the head of the table was Byakuya, elegantly entranced in his food as well as the report lying beside him. Fully prepared for the day ahead of him, he read over the latest report by his lieutenant Abarai, deciphering each and every syllable until it became a coherent paragraph. Stumbling towards the breakfast area was the second noble, still batting the sleep out of her eyes, not the slightest bit bothered by her inelegant actions. Nevertheless in her night robes, and untamed hair-do she sat opposing her brother, before cordially greeting him, "Good morning brother." She articulated with a slight yawn as she absentmindedly gathered the nearest plates pouring all the food in sight into her own dish. It was really unknown why Rukia out of all people would rise at this hour since it was her day off. It was decided by Ukitake that his Lieutenant has far too much overtime, and is severely overworked. As the second in command of the 13th Division, she basically ran the day-to-day operations whilst her Captain was too ill to complete the task. In the eyes of bystanders the only thing that distinguished Rukia from a Captain was the skill level, the ability to ban-kai and a haori. Groggily she devoured her king sized meal, not letting a single drop fall on her newest blue suede Chappy pajamas. In response to her muzzy attempt Byakuya nodded in acknowledgment, while refocusing on his croissant and peach tea. Occasionally lifting his gaze to glance over at Rukia's king sized portion consisting off a mountain of eggs with bacon and 3 buttery croissants. This amused him to no end; she would eat Omaeda sized meals while staying unjustly petite. Basking in the pleasant silence both relished each other's company. The serene calm, unmoving garden and sepia light, broken by a single black messenger in form of a majestic butterfly; fluttering through the Kuchiki grounds the jet black insect landed on the Kuchiki clan leaders, head-dress posing as another piece of jewelry as it announced another message. "Captain of Division 6 Kuchiki Byakuya, Captain-General of the Gotei 13 requests your prompt presence at the Division 1 Captains office."
1st Division
Soi-Fon arrived at the doors of the 1st Division Captains office, in a very timely manner contemplating what they will discuss at another useless meeting. The heavy and commanding atmosphere crushed all outsiders by the intimidating presence of the most powerful man in the whole Gotei 13, just behind two grand pieces of wood. The blazing reatsu could be felt from the cavernous hallway, the high ceiling and narrow passageway boxed in all passing by. Curiosity seemed to have been burning a hole straight through her conscious, the most pressing concerns she had were dealt with just 2 weeks before. Pressing her palm against the finely polished wood, in one powerful push she forced the large door open. Once again the Captain General sat behind his grand escritoire, in short order she sat on the sofa in front of the grand oak table. The coffee table already had tea prepared, along with some sweets, most likely left over from Ukitake's last visit. Wordlessly the ancient shinigami rose from his throne, slowly making his way to the seated Captain, not crossing his arms, he reached for the warm tea cup pressing the heated ceramic against his lips. His eyelid seemed shut impassive as he sipped the Chamomile tea, cordially she followed suit, taking the warm ceramic teacup, taking a shallow sip. All the while she never broke a calculating gaze, slightly paranoid from years of betrayal and problems with authoritarian figures. His permanent scowl etched on his face by the ages old scars and furrows, unreadable shrouding and concealing his true cynicism or underlying kindness and heart. Moments ridiculously prolonged, as the sip of his tea seemed boundless. In the ephemeral moments she envisioned many scenarios, maybe he was firing her as Captain, but why should that matter she still had the Stealth Force to fall back on, no, then would he force her to the meeting with her family, no once again he did not have jurisdiction, then what would he possibly need the status report should have been sent to him yesterday. Snapping her out of her dubious contemplations he set down the hot ceramic cup, "How was your week Captain?" he began politely, not bothering to unveil his lidded eyes. The slightly out of character question caught her off guard, deciding to humor the man she once again cordially followed suit, deciding to engage in the conversation, "I am well. I have continued to train under the supervision of Captain Unohana as you have suggested." Breaking the ice she once again reached for the warm cup, taking another now deeper sip.
Inhaling the sweet scent of the teach he awaited a few moments before once again inquired, "Any new techniques?" The sudden inquiry, caused her to momentarily falter, in that moments pause his lidded eyes widened slightly revealing the piercing grey orbs. Steeling her gaze, returning to her impassive masquerade, once again she spun her wheel as she wove another lie, "I have not named it yet." She replied solemnly matching his glare, the questions were becoming too subjective, she needed to cease this mindless conversation, "Captain-General is there a reason for this conversation, I am sure that my weekly report reached you yesterday." She rebutted, gaging his reaction, but all emotion or motion was ceased, only a slight smirk crept on his features.
"Even for a Captain she is brutally efficient, quite the opposite from her counterpart Shihouin Yoruichi." He mused, slightly disturbed that his inquiry was cut short, but what premise did he have to investigate. Lidding his piercing orbs once again he glanced at the girl before him once more, even since the winter war she has grown, even though every Captain has matured since then she took quite the unexpected route. Snapping back to reality, he cleared his throat, "The purpose of this mission is information, more directly to eliminate Aizen's beneficiaries. This is a threat that will surely directly affect Soul Society if not dealt with promptly. This is a request form Lukedonia, they believe with legitimate evidence that a human organization has a link with Aizen. The evidence was the sighting of bioengineered hollows not from a regular human soul but from the souls of Nobles, their power level per being is equivalent to two Espada."
As the explanation was uttered her heart began to slowly plunge into her stomach, gathering form the extensive negative history that the Nobles did sign a peace treaty with the shinigami upon departure, never had she imagined that they would be on speaking terms. The instant she realized that the fateful day of her visiting Lukedonia might arrive sooner than expected, her Nobles insignia began to throb unremittingly. This was not something that she should drag the Gotei 13 into, despite the fact that she swore never to drag emotion into her line of work this, however seemed inevitable. Exhaling the crisp air she concluded, "Captain-General with all due respect I would like to take this case into Stealth Force hands."
Intrigued, he arched his long silver eyebrow, narrowing his gaze as he took an inconspicuous sip of tea. He was an unbending man, but not to the point of irrationality, prodding her sudden stance he inquired, "Why is that Commander?" Dazed by his sudden use of her counter title, she steeled her gaze, sipping tea as he did in an unnoticeable friendly maneuver. Heavily she guarded her apprehension, however still carefully electing her words as she evened the board, "The Stealth Force is better equipped to handle reconnaissance missions." Her response was concise effortlessly proving her stance, but he had already decided, "No, the mission is not simply to gather intelligence, but if possible eliminate the beneficiaries." He countered offhandedly, exerting his apparent authority. Her guise visibly hardened as she exhaled casually sipping her tea, before asking the apparent question. "When do I depart?"
"I will disclose the details once your collaborator arrives." He answered simply once again fixating on the dancing flavors of his tea. Deciding not to argue against the man she sipped her tea in silence, while contemplating his exact reasoning. She was on a train once again, and it was not taking any more passengers, catatonic while the world continued to progress and regress around her, she simply coasted. Nothing could make this moment any more arduous, nonetheless never say never.
Prolonged minutes of serenity shattered by the unnerving racket of the ancient wooden doors. A fluorescent ray of light shone through the narrow crack of the 1st Division insignia masterfully etched on the grand doors. Eclipsing in the light was a silhouette graciously advancing ever forward, as the radiant beam bedimmed the features became more apparent. It was the Kuchiki noble clad in more formal clothing; his knew headpiece seamlessly fitted his visage, scarce of his pale green traditional scarf replaced by a finely woven collared haori. Angling her gaze her half lidded eyes slightly widened almost chocking mid swallow. Respectfully bowing in his silky black locks shuffled, as he continuously strode. Coming into earshot range he noted a biting remark, "Took you long enough." Glancing in the direction of the curt comment he found the form of the Captain of the Second Division, serenely fixated on her tea glowering in her usual manner. Across the small coffee table was the Captain-General also fixated on the tea, approaching the unnatural scene he wondered about the organized insanity in the Gotei 13? "I have arrived as soon as I have received the message." He replied curtly seeping biting venom into his rebut. Glancing toward the sitting woman, he noted that her hair was cut differently, longer but still with her traditional braids. Once again their egos began escalating dangerously, her glower unfaltering, cold, unjust to the burning crimson orbs, his steel like silver orbs unbending and rigid. Being the voice of reason, Yamamoto diffused the situation commandeering the unruly couple, "Quiet!" he roared, slamming the ceramic cup on the oak table, "When will you young'uns learn that bickering solves nothing!" Fuming the old man plumped into his seat once again lulling himself into his serene temper mentality. Continuing his elitist gait he sat next to Soi-Fon, focused only on the task at hand. Like a shadow Yamamoto's right hand man appeared refilling their cups with Unohana's special calming mixture (aka Unohana's special spiked tea). Simultaneously, each sipped the intoxicating tea, the flavors seemed more intense followed by a faint sourness, a group hmm, arose. "Captains, I have summoned you to request that you take this assignment. As representatives of the Gotei 13 before the Nobles, we have to make our stance known. The mission will be to gather information on the Union organization as well as the bionic hollow sightings. We believe that the Union is working along with Aizen; we may have a war on our hands. As Captain of the Second Division and Commander of the Stealth Force you will head the mission." He took a pregnant pause gaging their reaction, she cordially nodded while he impassively sipped his tea, "Then Nobles have had confrontation with the Union as well as the bionic Arrancar, and the epitome of these attacks is Ye-ran high school, commonly referred to as Kurosaki's school. Some Nobles stationed in Karakura town have disappeared, but you have been arranged to stay with our mediator Frankenstein. I request that only you two go. Deploy in the next few days I will give you a set date tomorrow. Dismissed." Bowing once again the two made their exit swiftly, the pill was not hard to swallow at all.
She seemed emotionless, heartless, tormented by her demons, however always collected and unwavering. Never had she seemed edgy on being assigned a vital mission especially one that she would lead at her discretion. Walking beside, her presence was guarded, chagrined, brushing it off as none of his business they continued their stroll. Glancing toward the stoic Kuchiki he always seemed heartless blank at times plain. Exhaling she focused on her future speech to her Division, curiosity brimming at the number of newest recruits who have survived. Slightly stunted when she heard Byakuya's deep baritone resound through the open hallway, "Captain Soi-Fon I would like to discuss any mission plans, it would be best to plan them in unison to have less disagreement during our time there." The suggestion seemed sound, stopping mid gait; she angled her gaze toward the impassive noble. "That would be wise where would you like to discuss them?" she cordially asked, giving him a moment to contemplate.
Without second thought he replied, "I prefer my manor, the access to the Kuchiki archives would be unhindered should we need some background information." He reasoned, nodding they exited the Division grounds. Focusing on the road ahead neither noticed their proximity. Elegantly they strode Soul Society's ancient walkways, passing nostalgic buildings, latest renovations and their subordinates. The midday heat, burned through the streets as they walked, maybe they were delusional but it seemed as if their subordinates were avoiding them, shrugging it off they continued their stroll. Walking past one of the most popular shinigami café's, they did not notice their fellow Captain Hitsugaya and his Lieutenant enjoying a cup of tea as Toushirou did all the work for the two. The Lieutenants acute slightly perverted senses were tipped off as the two passed by together. Her jaw unhinged itself as it toppled down to the table; it was the beckoning of the apocalypse in Soul Society. Absentmindedly her hand toppled the ink cartilage once standing upright on the table, feeling his superficial temporal artery sporadically pulsate, he snapped his feather pen. The report on the abilities of the queen of Hueco Mundo and the affect of his ice VS her water abilities was quite important. Enraged he slowly shifted his grimace from the paper to his stupefied Lieutenant, intrigued he questioned, "Matsumoto are you alright?" her facial expression did not change as she lifted her shaking index finger towards the source of her sudden anxiety. Tilting his teal pools towards the unfolding scene, his jaw drooped as well, watching the ice queen and king once again standing in their forbidden personal bubbles. "C-Captain d-do you see t-that?" her voice shaky she once again pointed to the strolling couple. Unable to articulate any coherent thoughts, he dropped his broken feather pen on his pristine haori.
The next to notice were the more experienced Captains, well more like two more adequate and one blithering and drunk. Carrying Kyouraku, on they shoulders were Nanao and Ukitake with Unohana in lead. Taking her time, she strolled at an even speed likely prolonging the at times incompetent mans suffering. Walking past Soi-Fon and Byakuya cordially nodded at them as they continued on their way still in close proximity. Gaping Nanao and Ukitake handed their paychecks to the healer sighing, while the healer pleased with the new funding for her Division. "No way." Was the single coherent thing that the Captain of the 8th Division had muttered?
The Kuchiki manor was a grand Japanese style manor, with a well-kept garden and koi pounds. The entrance was comprised of two grand wooden doors already opened, which led to a grassy field with a paved path leading to the door of the porch of the mansion. Making their way through the mazelike pathway of the Kuchiki manor, they arrived at the wooden patio that surrounded the house, overlooking the pristine training area, which was hardly at use now. Trailing the noble she shattered the silence, "This is nostalgic." Not stopping his even strides, a smile drew on his face, as he responded lightheartedly, "Yes, it is." Both smirked at the impromptu conversation. Arriving at the sunroom they sat at a glass circular table, as a dinky servant raced to serve them, "Lord Byakuya is there anything you would like? Anything I could bring you Lady Shihouin?" bowing in the direction of the two Captains Byakuya answered first, "Tea, how about you Captain" he asked cordially, not planning to call her a Shihouin knowing her first reaction. "Tea as well." Her voice steeled, as she crossed her legs under the table leaning back on the chair. Swiftly the servant escaped the tense atmosphere of the two Captains, facing his colleague he awaited her ideas on the situation.
"Before coming to Lukedonia I believe we should find out everything we can about these bionic Arrancar. I assume that Kurosaki and the two Lieutenants there have encountered them as well as the Nobles currently stationed there." She proposed steeling her piercing crimson pools, gazing at the noble before her his eyes narrowed but not dangerously so as he reclined ever so slightly as well.
"Letting Lieutenant Kuchiki and Lieutenant Abarai monitor Karakura town and send us daily reports would be best. Do you have any information pertaining to this mediator we are to stay with?" he was candid unusually so, smirking at the glint of challenge in his eyes. Surreal, how acquainted they have become with each other after strenuous weeks of research on Nobles and the Loyard case.
Before she could address her stance, the servant rushed back swiftly pouring fragrant tea into the ceramic cups. The fragrance was sweet a mellow blend of peach and smooth vanilla, lacing her finger around the warm cup, she took a taste, dancing together it was not vanilla but cherry, how peculiar to mix the two. Setting her cup down, she could not help but inquire, "What type of tea is this?" Smirking he set his cup down gently on the thick glass, "It is a special blend of peach cherry as well as some vanilla it is one of my favorites." He answered concisely, reaching for another sip of his fragrant tea. Despite the pleasurable flavor of the tea she continued to methodically assert her stance, "There should be an archive in the Stealth Force library. I will send for it immediately." Raising her hand she wove an intricate hand signal to nobody in his sight range. At once an Execute Militia officer appeared behind Soi-Fon, like a shadow he was neither seen nor heard silently he bowed to his commander. Not bothering to turn towards him she continued to fixate her gaze on the serene cup of tea, "You are to find the sealed file on Soul Society's mediator with the nobles and bring it to me, you are given the proper clearance should anyone ask. Dismissed." She commanded her voice like steel, icy however calling the utmost respect, silently the young shrouded officer dissipated as untraceably as he appeared. Byakuya sat in silence; he could not help but be impressed by how the Stealth Force functioned well, better than most Divisions.
"Would that not be undermining the Captain-General he trusts this man, I assume so should we? He has gained the trust of Soul Society as well as the Nobles" The Kuchiki countered, steeling her crimson orbs she exhaled, as she evened her breaths, "The Stealth Force does not function on blind trust, only on fact and premise. To blindly trust is a set up for failure. We have already blindly trusted and it proved to be our downfall." Her voice plunged from booming to solemn, memories of Yoruichi's betrayal began surfacing, unwanted and uncalled for. Noticing the sudden change he allowed the pregnant pause to grow, turning away from her 'and your point is?' gaze.
"In that you are correct the enemy may be Aizen-type so it would be anticlimactic not rule out all the factors. It is more than likely that he is an acquaintance of Urahara Kisuke." He suggested calculating her reaction. A malicious smirk crept on her features, followed by an almost unnoticeable blush, "That means we must first visit Lady Yoruichi."
A sudden gust of wind blew past them, chilling the atmosphere, as another Executive Militia officer appeared bind her holding a thin file. Glancing backward she exhaled, "Your entrance was too loud, you should be able to better control your reatsu, bring the file." She criticized her subordinate as he hastily laid the file on the table before them. Bowing, he apologized, "My apologies Commander" she glanced toward him, exhaling as she waved him another gesture, dismissing him. Unveiling the file it revealed a picture of a decent looking man with long blond locks and light blue eyes. Peering down both scrutinized each letter to find any coherent information
Frankenstein: Occupation Founder and Chairman of Ye-ran high school
Known alias: Lee/Chairman Lee, Age: Unknown
Close association with Nobles as well as the Substitute shinigami. Known for having a lot of trust and consideration among the Noble clan leaders, also known for close relations with the Noblesse, Confrontations with Union result; disruption of Union's hierarchy, current affiliation Lukedonia and Soul Society.
Turning the page they found a seal marker
Clearance Captain-General – Central 46. Other access denied.
Glancing at each other neither had any logical conclusion for why exactly his files were under such rare and high clearance. Quizzically both gazed at each other then reverted their gazes to the paper before them. There were many offhanded things that she would glance over, she had the right to question it, but before she could formally articulate anything a servant burst into the open sunroom. Bowing deeply and remorsefully he did not say a word, strenuous moments later he announced, "Lord Byakuya the elders are requesting your presence immediately, in the clan meeting rooms." Quickly turning to Soi-Fon he bowed once more, "Lady Shihouin your elders are requesting your presence in the Kuchiki clan meetings. My apologies for disturbing you." Hastily the servant left the two alone.
She sat silently pondering what had happened moments ago, she had done the best she could to avoid them both, like a shadow running from the sun. Once again a knife of responsibility was being shoved down her throat. Glancing towards the clock subtly he pondered how an hour could pass so quickly, judging from the haste that his servant was running the meeting between his elder and him was not going to pleasant and short. Standing up Byakuya offered to lead her to the Kuchiki clan meeting room, she walked like a sleepwalker through the manor. Simply recollecting the hate and aversion they had shown towards her, she was always their daughter's plaything. She was nothing to them may still even be nothing, to Takami Shihouin. The political maneuvers the shady deals that she had completed purely out of respect and reconciliation of the Shihouin name filled her with disdain and derision.
Finally arriving at the grand entrance of the clan meeting room, large shoji door, containing the den of snakes ready to kill. Another servant opened Pandora's box sending a chill down her spine. They were planning something again, did they once again want to crucify her and serve her head on a silver platter? She was there again in this place.
Proudly she strut into the well lit well decorated room, displaying a grand traditional washitsu, with a long table on the far end with elders situated on mahogany zabuton with red velvet lining. They sat in a row, their gazes unforgiving, with thinly veiled enigmatic prejudice, scrutiny and antipathy each one boasting their family wealth, finely made silk kimonos. Unfaltering she took another steady gait towards the center of the room, glancing toward her diminutive seat before the elders as if it was a murder trial. Moving ever forward the shoji door shut abruptly behind both of them; exhaling unnoticeably she shrugged off all anxiety. Both being war-hardened warriors, they did not show any weakness otherwise known as emotion, when dealing with predators never show emotion. Each step towards the zabuton became more reluctant, heavy, until she caught the insufferable gaze of Takami Shihouin, determined never to falter before them she sat ramrod straight in her designated seat, while Byakuya was beside her. Stoic both faced the elders in the center of which were the Kuchiki on the left were the Fon and on the right were the Shihouin.
A rush of blood rushed to her face, as hands becoming cold, knees weak thankful that she was sitting otherwise she would topple. Bowing low to the respected people she swallowed her derision towards the Shihouin, overpowering it with her respect for the Fon as well as the Kuchiki. Byakuya followed suit bowing respectfully, glancing around the room, he could not help but notice the contrite gaze of Lady Shihouin and the fuming guise of her husband. The panel before her was comprised of the main branches as well as the outer lesser members. Her gaze was fixated upon her family; her father was unreadable lidding his eyes dressed in expensive silk partially covering his face, while her mother was sitting beside him her gaze proud veiled by impassiveness. Despite knowing full well that she was not their daughter, they were the only ones that she had.
Observing the panel before her, each of them was too content, especially with the fact that they were sharing the room with lesser Nobility as their equal in standing at the moment. The main elder vaguely resembled Byakuya was dressed in black robes as well as a cap all etched with a golden floral pattern, his expression civil, faint civility veiling the malice and crude grimace desperately rearing its head through his thin disguise. With each moment seconds prolonged into minutes, tension grew as they sat uncomfortably scrutinized, not falling for the bait she did not glance to the man beside her; neither did she allow herself to speak first. At best she could not alienate the nobility it would surely jeopardize the Stealth Force then consequently the Gotei 13.
Snapping her out of her dubious contemplations was a monotonous tap of the main elder's judgment hammer. Clearing his throat he summoned the rooms undivided attention silencing all incoherent murmurs among the branch members of each respective family. "We the Noble clans of Soul Society have decided that we have gone heirless for long enough. The Shihouin and Kuchiki have always had close ties now those ties can be intensified, by your union." He took a pregnant pause before stating his conditions, this window was enough for Soi-Fon to launch her retaliation, and monopolize the opportunity to tell the Shihouin exactly what she thinks of them. "I am not of the Shihouin clan. Despite the fact that my father was Shihouin Eli former Captain of the Second Division before Shihouin Yoruichi, they have not justly claimed me for I have never agreed. " She clarified in a strident tone, angling her glower straight into Takami Shihouin's silver pools. Very subtly they recoiled, their exquisite kimonos slightly fluttered from the direct mutilation of the pride. Matching her grimace the regal Takami simply countered, " It was not that we did not want to claim you those years ago it was that we could not. We have gone through the correct procedures, the Fon clan has willingly compos mentis, relieved any claim they had on you." Beside him Haruna quietly observed, calculating the petite Captain's reactions with her warm gold orbs. Her face and vibrant orbs kindled a bit of amusement, in that moment Haruna was almost identical to her daughter Yoruichi. Snapping her head towards the Fon clan she evenly articulated, "You have willingly forfeited your claim as my clan." Despite her even tone it was obvious that her teeth were gritted, each word cut like a knife tearing once again at the stability she had amassed. Her gaze fell toward the cherry wood floor; she could not bear to further look at the man, who threw her away.
"You were never ours, who were we to stop you from attaining your dreams." Was all that her former father had said, his once comforting voice only brought sorrow that she was not allowed to display, one that should be locked deep within. Steeling herself once more she could only gaze at her parents, crimson orbs only embers, scares of their roseate glow. She turned away swiftly to face the main elder.
Byakuya was still surprised, the Shihouin clan is known for their tanned complexions, Soi-Fon's skin is nowhere as tanned as Yoruichi's. Despite her crimson orbs her eye shape seemed similar to Takami's, her hair color resembled his as well, and even her powerful jawline. Soi-Fon's nose and prominent cheekbone is the exact replica of Haruna's. Soi-Fon's complexion was a few shades lighter than Haruna's but not significantly so. Glancing over to Soi-Fon, Byakuya saw the face of pure malice, the contorted face of an assassin planning a massacre. He was displeased as well, he still had Hisana, she was his wife, he could not simply forget about her.
"Continuing, since both of you have not produced an heirs in a reasonable amount of time, both clans are vulnerable. The disappearance of either the Shihouin or the Kuchiki line is unacceptable. The risk that comes with being leaders of 2 elite organizations, call for producing an heir as top priority, in our agreement the two of you shall marry in the next year, however the formal engagement will be next month." The underhanded man then reached for an official paper, with the signatures of all the clans even the Fon. On the document the official seal binding her to her abominable fate had her name not as her normal name but as, 'Shaolin Fon Shihouin' she was no longer a Fon, the daunting reality set in. The name was like nails on a chalkboard; maybe just maybe this was a nightmare. No fisting her hand it was not a dream, she spaced out contemplating any means necessary to get out of this union.
Glaring at the elders before him, he could not help but wonder, he knew this was going to happen sooner or later but not with her. He was fuming; behind his impassive mask he was prepared to massacre the elders along with Soi-Fon. The situation in and of itself was too bizarre too surreal. It was one of those times he wished that he had brought Yachiru hyped on triple espresso simply to end his misery. He knew exactly what needed to be done; glancing over towards Soi-Fon he discreetly reached his hand for hers, in the midst of the elders rambling.
Unexpectedly she felt her hand be squeezed gently by a something cool, and soft. Glancing toward him, he let go, his facial expression said it all, "Follow my lead, I apologize for the unsavory things that I will say."
"The Kuchiki clan has sunk low enough to add a half breed to the clan. As the head of the clan I have the right to choose the spouse of my pleasing." He bellowed in contempt. Beside him she huffed, "Yeah, someone really wants to me on my Ban-kai list." She mused malevolently, glancing towards the fuming woman calculating the danger he was plunging himself into.
"The Nobles once stood atop Soul Society's nobility so in that sense it is perfectly acceptable. However we had reports that you were courting the Commander?" Answered Haruna, with another question unfazed.
There were a lot of rumors constantly circulating through out Soul Society, but for that specific one to reach people like the Shihouin there must have been some daunting proof. Cornered the two were bewildered, but that sudden annoyance reversed to killing intent. His eyebrow twitched in annoyance, how could his stoic and coerced act be interpreted as a debauched act of courting. Soi-Fon's eyes gleamed with rancor, but then again she was carried bridal style throughout the whole of Soul Society. Than ignited her final stance, "A loveless marriage is pointless and depraved." She rebutted, stunting Byakuya hearing the words love out of the mouth of the Commander of the Stealth Force was not common occurrence, despite it being a façade.
"Marriage is another duty, Commander, nonetheless Noble Byakuya surely you would not go back on the promise you have made to your parents to follow the rules, despite your feelings. Your engagement is already scheduled for next month this time. And after that engagement you both will share one household." The main elder countered, the room fell silent with now blatant derision, and tension so thick it was not breathable.
Glancing at each other neither could imagine a happy scenario for their loveless union.
There was no love.
Useless, the contract by which they are bound, marriage, like an iron shackle tying them to a sinking ship. Chained, two independent beings, like burning fires randomly exploding, suffocating, chocking in each other's presence. They were nothing to each other, once to a point they were acquaintances, it may have grown into something beautiful, naturally.
Soi-Fon feels nothing as she sheds the layers of her black armor, cold as the gear tumbling down. Empty heartedly gazing at the wall she did not want to be here, she could only imagine another place and time. Mechanically she dressed in her nightwear, like a shadow of a woman going through the motions. Absent of sensibility, she tread to the cold bed. She was not alone. As Byakuya lay there motionlessly, staring at his pristine garden through the open shoji door. Warding his mind away from the antipathy of the room, they did not speak, nor interact but the estrangement was evident. Hard-bitten by life and loss neither was as naïve as to believe that what ever they had, especially the antipathy and hostility would transcend in to love, or fondness.
Maybe by fate or chance, their obligation unified two people, broken by loss and life. At least they found each other, people as equally tortured by it's past, and who find no solace in the present. For mere seconds they could imagine that tow broken halves of can make one perfect whole. At times he would reach for her during the night, envisioning his late wife, at times she would reach for him, envisioning anything but what they had. A simple plastic phrase would be exchanged as they drifted off into their separate worlds, "Good Night."
An impeding truth lingers, they are not the right people, what they are doing is wrong, at best unhealthy. Nonetheless, they continue to fulfill their obligation, awaiting the rare sparks of lust. This institution, something thought to be so cherished rotted and poisoned two beings until they could not fight any longer, until they settled with the unforgiving reality. He, who knows loneliness absorbs hers quietly, letting the cold gust fill the hole that Hisana had left behind. She, who knows loss, allows him moments, to imagine Hisana, but an insatiable truth follows. She knows, but he hides it, she is not his Hisana. They are crippled by time, hard bitten by love and life, their only solace, the ephemeral night, when they would lay in silence.
At sunrise they would dress preparing for the journey ahead, as they clad themselves in their cold armor, feigning that the jagged sands of time have not withered away almost all-human emotion. Only fleeting eye contact is exchanged, mornings were never 'good' it only marked a new beginning, which they could never hope to achieve together.
She leaves before him, purposefully avoiding each other during the day, for the dark void they have both fallen through is too agonizing to face in the luminescent daylight. He would drown himself in work, premeditatedly, only to spend as little time in the broken ménage as physically possible. In cold-blood she would assassinate, as her duty dictates, she works herself past the breaking point, scattering the pieces on the battlefield, leaving nothing but a hollow shell to drag back. Resolute, both would regress, only to tear off the bandages of the now gaping and bleeding wound that is their marriage. As usual he would already be in bed, contemplating his day, dirty and beat she would drag herself too numb to care.
As they lay together, they could only imagine, that maybe just maybe he could be her flower and she his bee.
At that moment, the Commander of the Inner Court Troop, like a shadow he stood behind his Supreme Commander. "Yes Corps Commander Rin." She answered, before the Nobles had a chance to outrage. Solemnly she glanced up at the man, his short cut jet-black locks fell carelessly on his face, his slightly pointed ears, blazing cobalt blue orbs fell upon his commander. For the first time in ages he was in uniform, clad in his scarlet waist length haori. "Supreme Commander, reporting, there has been a hollow attack in the Western Rukongai forest, Corps Commander Taylan of the Executive Correctional Unit and his team was sent to intercept them. A rough message came back stating that these Arrancar are like nothing they have ever seen. None of the team members have returned we believe it is too dangerous to send the 4th Division." Shooting into a standing position, she dissipated following her subordinate. Leaving the Nobles stunted, as a hell butterfly landed on Byakuya's head once again bellowing a message, "All Captains report for an emergency Captains meeting." Like Soi-Fon he disappeared leaving the room stunted.
AN
Im hoping to atleast get 3 more reviews before posting the next chapter,
in the next chapter there will be an epic battle scene as well some more Byasoi. So stay tuned, i have read some fics and think that they fall in love to easily so i am giving them some obstacles. leave some suggestions as well how are u liking the story is it to oc are the charachters to oc i dont know leave behind some comments!
this chapter was based alot on Evanescence and Skylar Grey along with Play for Keeps by B.o.B and some parts were based on various eminem songs
