The Moon's Tears

by Arowen12

War took everything from Ichigo, family, friends, his reason for living. Unable to let all that has come to pass rest Ichigo rips apart time itself. Waking up in the past Ichigo struggles to overcome the pain of his memories and save all those who matter.

10. Chapter 10

Querencia

(n.) A place from which one's strength is drawn, where one feels at home; the place where you are your most authentic self.

Hello everyone here is chapter 10! Slowly but surely getting through this, we are finally finished with the academy which is quite exciting to consider as we are now going to delve into some fun things. Enjoy!

Bleach belongs to Tite Kubo

X= Used to indicate change in perspective or timing/scenery.

Old man Zangetsu speaking.

Shiro speaking.

X

Ichigo grasped at his knees, hunched over his breath came out in large heaving gasps. Looking up his eyes withheld a fearful glint as they scanned the long hallways that were the Shinigami Academy building. A rumble echoed ominously in the distance as if cautioning Ichigo against incoming doom, instantly his spine straitened orange locks whipping about in wild frenzy as his head swung to the side.

"Oh shit!"

The words escaped Ichigo's mouth unfiltered as he starred down the long corridor apprehension clear in his chocolate orbs. Nodding briefly to himself Ichigo gathered his reaitsu and fled the hallway, weary of the beasts that lurked behind him.

Arriving with a slight tumble Ichigo caught himself and looked around seeing a familiar oak door Ichigo let out a sigh and pushed the door to his first class of the day open. The classroom was near empty with only a select few male students and a single female student perched at their desks, letting his eyes cast over their collective heads he spotted Byakuya's raven hair. Plopping in the seat next to his friend he traded a tired gaze before slumping forward to rest his head on the cool desk.

"That bad already?"

Byakuya's voice while holding sympathy also seemed humoured by Ichigo's apparent misery. Turning his head so a caramel eye could gaze at Byakuya from beneath a wave of tangerine Ichigo frowned and shuffled his head in a rough nodding motion. Raising an eyebrow curiously Ichigo sighed and said, "How did you survive five years of this nonsense? It's completely insane."

Byakuya nodded and Ichigo thought of days long gone where the Shinigami Woman's Association had plotted many devious schemes themed with the time of the month, everything from stalking captains to take photos, to having Mayuri help them make concoctions unfit for any humans consumption.

"It is quite the wonder, I think I spent more than a few of those days barricaded inside my dorm, if not the Kuchiki mansion. I'm fortunate this year in that their attention now seems largely focused on you, what with senior year I can't miss a day (or so the teachers preach)."

Ichigo laughed softly as Byakuya's words scattered the thoughts that ran rampant in his mind, the raven haired student made a point, it seemed as if Byakuya was a sidekick in the attention Ichigo was receiving. Longing stares followed him throughout the hallways, girls would hastily step in front of him and nervously present something uniquely made, they would follow in hordes ready to tackle him and drag him to their homes.

Ichigo shuddered at mere thought of such horror. The sound of the classroom's door opening reverberated throughout the room the dull sound of unoiled hinges leaving a slight ache behind Ichigo's eyes. Looking up Ichigo could see the teacher marching in, tawny hair swept up into a long ponytail that flowed elegantly; behind her Ichigo's classmates streamed in their eyes raving about the classroom searching for… Ichigo hoped it wasn't him but lady fortune wasn't so kind as their beady eyes swung towards him.

Slowly Ichigo sunk farther in his seat letting his reaitsu swarm up to camouflage him if only slightly. The teacher made an impatient noise, something close to the croaking of a frog in sound; really the woman was quite unpleasant in her teaching spewing an array of useless knowledge as if it would assist them in life. Ichigo let out a relieved sigh as the penetrating stare abated and the students swarmed to their seats.

X

Ichigo paced in a small circle outside the main gates, hidden from view by the large pillars that held the iron wrought gate. The air was cool and a bitter wind nipped at his cheeks as if chastising him for his pacing. A short time later Byakuya's raven tresses made themselves visible as he prowled through the gates his eyes casting about like a prey searching for the hunter that would swoop upon him and grasp him with mighty claws.

"Any trouble escaping the mob?"

Ichigo asked an eyebrow arched in amusement, Byakuya huffed staring at Ichigo for a moment before nodding, Ichigo smiled and sharing a look they flash-stepped away from the school filled with the chatter of excitable students.

They arrived in Rungokai one of the cleaner districts with a hospitable reputation, and more than a few stores of unique interest. Ichigo led the two to a small building squished between two large shops, one a kimono retailer and the other a butcher. The petite building had walls of mint green with worn cedar wood encasing the light walls, the sign above in faded letters in need of paint read: Utsukushī Tea.

Ichigo pushed the simple wooden door open and a bell above let out a pleasant note, stepping inside the fragrant scent of freshly brewed teas floated on the air and pleased the senses. The room was filled with low wooden tables and plush mats of varying colours were scattered about unevenly, lamps hung from the ceiling and cast soft light upon all that it touched, and soft chatter filled the air. The store had a feel of well-worn comfort and a friendly atmosphere.

A waitress bustled up to them, small in stature and sporting a shy smile her voice was soft and pleasant when she asked, "Table for two?"

Ichigo nodded and the girl led them towards a low table her red kimono fluttering behind her, the table was set against a wall where a window cast fading light upon their table. Settling down on the plump cushions Ichigo smiled encouragingly and the waitress blushed before she said, "U-um we have ten select teas on the menu today, and um we also serve a variety of pastries and light snacks…um I'm Asami and I'll be serving you today… um what would you like to order?"

Ichigo smiled softly at the girl, his eyes darkening slightly, she reminded him far too much of Momo who had fallen prey to Aizen's charms with ease, stuck in the fourth raving delusions. She healed (partially) with time but the girl was never the same, and she still suffered from attacks, it was one of those that cost her life. Byakuya coughed disturbing Ichigo from his dark thoughts before looking at the waitress he said, "Do you have any jasmine teas? Also I think I'm in the mood for a treat, whatever's there."

The waitress blushed and responded in the positive before her gaze drifted over to Ichigo landing upon bright tangerine strands, Ichigo smiled and said, "I'll also have a jasmine tea please," Ichigo leaned in close to whisper into her ear, "Could you please add some sake to both teas? And a pastry for me as well please. Ukeire."

Asami looked like she wanted to protest but when Ichigo whispered the "password" she nodded and backed away to take their orders to the kitchen. The word wasn't so much a password as a symbol of your age (or so he had been told by debatable sources) it almost always worked so Ichigo was thankful for the helpful tip. Raising his head to peer through messy locks Ichigo saw Byakuya's gaze, pointed and full of curiosity.

"What did you whisper to the waitress Ichigo?"

Ichigo smiled knowingly and Byakuya let out a sigh of long suffering knowing well the meaning of that smile. They made idle talk for a few moments talking about class while avoiding the topic of their horrendous experiences and likely tragic memories of the day.

The waitress bustled back carrying a tray with a pewter teapot and two round cups, accompanying the tea was a small plate with two pastries of golden colour with a touch of red peeking out. Asami set it down gently, smiled kindly and said, "Thank you for coming you can leave the money on the table, and I hope you enjoy your date! Have a nice day"

The waitress blushed before scurrying off leaving a dumbstruck Ichigo and Byakuya. Ichigo let out a groan and mumbled, "This didn't happen nearly as much in my timeline." Letting his head rest on the table for a moment, Ichigo pouted and looked up to see Byakuya frowning a concerned expression resting on noble features.

"Do we just give off that aura? Why does everyone… and I mean everyone think that?"

Byakuya's question had sound logic, although Ichigo was certain that not everyone thought that, the idea still seemed to be common. Ichigo shrugged his shoulders with a tired sigh before picking up the steaming mug and tilting it towards his mouth. The rich fragrance delighted the senses and as the hot liquid trickled down his throat a pleasant sweetness rested on the tongue. Placing the mug down with a smile Ichigo looked at the treats that had been set before them wagashi biscuits lay in neat array with strawberries placed eloquently around them to present a beautiful image.

"You always know the most unique stores Ichigo, they are often a strange mix of nostalgia, comfort, age, and beauty."

The offhand comment from Byakuya startled Ichigo slightly and he looked up to see Byakuya nursing the cup of tea gingerly in his hands, a pleased smile resonated in his eyes, his hair glowed like sheets of ebony in the warm lighting cast by the oil lamps. Ichigo nodded his eyes drifting over the crowd of people in the restaurant a toasty homey atmosphere bubbling up and leaving a warm feeling in his chest.

"When one travels often, you see many things. Once I wanted to travel the world, let my feet lead me, no map, no compass just my spirit. But plans change and life attacks relentlessly I have things I need to accomplish before such dreams could be reality."

Byakuya looked up slightly startled noticing the whimsical gaze of Ichigo's eyes, nodding a pensive gaze in silver eyes Byakuya said, "Then one day when you have accomplished your goals, and we're both captains weary of subordinates we'll travel the world together."

Ichigo smiled and a soft laugh slipped from his lips. Shaking his head slightly Ichigo cast a mischievous glance towards Byakuya and said, "And this is why they think we're in a relationship… honestly though Byakuya what you say means a lot, though I don't know if we can last that long. Have you seen our classmates?"

Byakuya laughed the sound reverberating in Ichigo's own chest as he joined in a smile of pure happiness rested on his face untainted by the night. Byakuya turned catching Ichigo's eyes and said, "You spiked the drinks didn't you?"

Ichigo nodded no trace of guilt shining in his eyes, Byakuya shook his head and with a shrug smiled happily.

X

"What do you do if your subordinate is bleeding?"

Their blades clashed against each other, ebony against silver. Sweat dripped into Ichigo's eyes his breath a harsh heaving inside his chest as he swung Zangetsu in an overhead strike, Byakuya hastily raised his blade to block the incoming strike. Grinding his teeth, pushing Senbonzakura against Zangetsu he said, "Find source of injury and if need dispatch. Depending on size of injury wrap with gauze or clean cloth, if available cleanse wound first, calm subordinate and begin healing using Kido. If bleeding continues apply more bandages and do not take away old ones. Stitching may be required depending on size if materials needed are available sterilize needle and thread then begin."

Pushing away Ichigo nodded before stepping forward in a lunge thrusting Zangetsu in front of him, Byakuya stepped to the side and brought Senbonzakura down on Zangetsu. Moving at the last moment Ichigo twisted away and in Byakuya's confusion swept behind him holding Zangetsu to his throat. Shiro sang with glee bloodlust pulsing throughout Ichigo's mind he took a breath and tamped down on the feral instincts making a mental note to relieve some of the tension in Hueco Mundo.

"Well done Byakuya, almost all the questions I asked were answered correctly. Your skills in the blade far surpass that of the average academy student, I have no doubt you'll be fine."

Byakuya nodded his thank pulling ebony strands heavy with sweat back into the ponytail high upon his head, Ichigo fingered his own long locks thrown into a messy ponytail where stray strands scattered every which way. Perhaps it was time for a haircut? The adamant "no" he received from his zanpaktou spirits was answer enough for Ichigo who shrugged and plopped onto the training mats below.

"I still think it's ridiculous we have to take an exam, after all we also have to do the exhibition battles in the same month."

Ichigo nodded with sympathy their "exams" drew closer with every passing day hence the improvised studying/battle.

"It's a method to improve those not in the exhibition fights score, remember only the highest ranking students are permitted to fight."

Byakuya nodded laying down on the hard mats and staring at the wooden ceiling above, Ichigo smiled and shuffled over slightly to sit beside his friend before laying down and looking up at the same ceiling.

"Are you ready to become a Shinigami? I'm not sure if I'm ready for that kind of responsibility… I am excited to help Soul Society and serve under my grandfather. But what if I amount to nothing?"

Ichigo sighed softly a weight pressing onto his stomach lightly, turning his head to the side so he could look into Byakuya's eyes Ichigo saw a burst of conflicting emotions; sadness, longing, tiredness, happiness, and confusion. Ichigo lips quirked up slightly in an attempt at a reassuring smile he said, "I think in heart and soul you're already a Shinigami, you can handle whatever weight is put on your shoulders Byakuya. You have a will, a reason to fight. You are strong, it's in your eyes, your heart, your sword, and you won't amount to nothing that's not your fate, you're more than that. And if you think you can wallow in misery and let it weigh you down, I will personally kick your ass to remind you of who you are."

Byakuya smiled his eyes going slightly misty as his hand clenched Senbonzakura's hilt in a tight grip, nodding he slowly stood up stout resolution in his eyes. Ichigo nodded in kind and let his own legs lift him up. Was he ready to enter the fray, this web of politics and secrecy? He had no choice for them his blade would strike clean through all hesitations.

"Ready for round fifteen?"

Ichigo queried shaking his bangs away from sight and whipping Zangetsu forward in challenge, Byakuya nodded Senbonzakura elegantly poised at his side. With a somewhat sinister smile on his face Ichigo charged forward.

X

Ichigo sank into his inner world, the water swirling around him, closed eyes flickered open and he looked at the sunlight a far pinprick of light arched by towering buildings. Sighing softly Ichigo let himself float in the cool water tangerine locks dancing gracefully as bubbles floated past his lips, closing his eyes once more Ichigo let himself bask in the peace and utter silence. Stretching out like a cat Ichigo let himself be drawn to one of the many skyscrapers piercing the clear water below.

Shiro was hunched over on top of the building his shocking white hair clear against the sky, a mix of crimson and cerulean, Ichigo tousled his hair and sat down beside one of his zanpaktou spirits gazing at the vista below them. Specks of emerald made themselves visible in small clusters scattered throughout the submerged city, Ichigo smiled softly at the sight turning to look at the building closest where a gaping hole lay in one side of the building. Vines curled out from the hole wrapping around the sides and curling around chunks of debris, farther inside the hole rich brown bark made itself visible along with braches splaying out to display leafs of many colours.

"I see Old Man Zangetsu got his wish."

Ichigo's voice held the tone unique to his inner world, his voice seemed to bounce and tread softly upon the sound waves, Shiro nodded his spine straightening slightly as gold eyes surrounded by a sea of ebony connected with Ichigo's.

"It's thank to ya King, or rather ya "new" friends."

Shiro's dual tone voice rasped out echoing in the emptiness of Ichigo's inner world, nodding Ichigo tilted his head back looking at the sky once more before saying, "The colour in the sky is new. Was my world ever like this? Before it all happened…"

Shiro turned a concerned eye upon Ichigo as thunder clouds rumbled ominously in the distance. The hollow like being opened his mouth to speak when Old Man Zangetsu's deep baritone rang out.

"When your mother was alive, there was colours unbelievable and there was no skyscrapers. Afterwards the colours started to fade slightly and this city grew as your dream drifted farther away. I think once it was a mixture of landscapes, mountains, rivers, deserts, canyons, caves, forests. Time has changed that and time will change again."

Ichigo turned to face Old Man Zangetsu standing behind him cocoa hair flowing imposingly in the non-existent wind, blue eyes hidden behind ochre lens, and his ebony robe floated on an almost invisibly wave by his feet. Ichigo took in what his Zanpaktou spirit said considering the implications and meaning of such changes, his mind drew back to one of the passages he had managed to decode on one of the many nights hunched over brittle pages by candlelight.

"And I saw that all I once was, was changing it was not evolution…maybe this fragile feeling is hope?"

The writer was vague and often puzzling leaving far too many riddles to solve, sighing Ichigo let the thought go and leant back against Zangetsu's firm legs.

"Are you ready for the task at hand tomorrow?"

Ichigo nodded looking up into fiery lenses Ichigo said, "I will not hesitate, here is the crucible and we are just starting. The future is behind and ahead of me I will face it and all its burdens as I have before."

Zangetsu nodded satisfied, turning to Shiro Ichigo smiled and said, "Try to contain yourself tomorrow, I plan to venture into white sands soon."

"Aw but king ya not even gonna releasing ya real Shikai."

Ichigo smiled in reassurance at Shiro's pleading tone and said, "You know why I cannot release your true form yet, they would cower in fear and awe."

With Shiro's nod Ichigo leaned his head back and closed his eyes letting his mind rest and the moon above him soothe the emotions that raged war in his soul, and the bitter claws of memory were put to rest.

X

The air seemed to crackle with tension as chocolate eyes stared into Byakuya's own pair of slate eyes fierce and full of determination, mirrored in his own gaze Byakuya knew this battle wouldn't be easy. The crowd that once roared as they approached had quieted to the barest shuffling and whispers. The piercing gaze of his grandfather drove into his back reminding him of what he was fighting for, that and for Ichigo.

A stray strand of tangerine fell across Ichigo's eyes the rest pulled into a lopsided ponytail with curly ends. Byakuya felt a smile pull at his lips as they waited for the moment of battle to begin. With a sharp wave of his hand the referee stepped back and Byakuya released Senbonzakura from his plain scabbard, the hilt was worn and familiar beneath his grip, and the soft whisper of spirit at the back of his mind filled his muscles with strength.

Ichigo's zanpaktou was drawn from his sheath inch by inch, in a slow precise manner that displayed the silver of the blade, catching the harsh rays of sunlight. Flicking Senbonzakura in front of himself, pointed towards Ichigo, Byakuya shifted his stance, and as Ichigo shifted into a similar stance the moment seemed to suspend itself like a drop of dew caught in gossamer threads.

Ichigo struck first his blade swinging forward to disturb Senbonzakura's thrust position, nimbly Ichigo reversed his blade and lunged driving the tip towards Byakuya's eyes. Byakuya flicked his blade up and the two pieces of metal clashed with an ear-splitting sound, sparks flying off the blades like wayward fireflies. Byakuya pushed against Ichigo's blade, leaning back slightly to avoid the point centered near his forehead. A devilish smile curled onto Ichigo's face as he pushed Byakuya's blade back a contest of strength, feeling a smile of challenge whip onto his own face Byakuya twisted to the side letting Ichigo's blade fall flat and thrusting Senbonzakura at his unprotected side.

Silver flew up stopping Byakuya's rapid ascent, once more the two blades were locked. Stepping back Byakuya watched Ichigo noticing the peculiar tremor to his calloused hands, Byakuya was unable to think on the matter further as Ichigo stepped forward katana raised high overhead. Byakuya darted forward to catch the blade from underneath, Ichigo twisted letting the katana swing around to catch Byakuya from underneath.

The two traded blow after blow, making no move in advance against each other, Byakuya stepped back pushing sweaty locks aside and raised Senbonzakura to rest vertically, his spirit purred in the back of his mind excitement racing through his veins. Reaitsu gathered about him in soft folds of crystal blue, breathing in deeply Byakuya centered himself and let the reaitsu pool in his blade.

"Scatter Senbonzakura."

There were hushed gasps from the audience as the blade separated into thousands of tiny pink petals, or so the crystalline blades appeared. The air was suddenly filled with the luminous crystals that was his Shikai, flowing elegantly around them in swift swirls. Lifting his head Byakuya saw the excitements plain on Ichigo's face, chocolate orbs were alight with glee and his lips carved upwards to form a smile. It was Ichigo who had added Byakuya in achieving his Shikai but it was Byakuya who had trained it so it was a weapon, it would likely have taken many years before he was even close to touching Senbonzakura's Shikai.

Swinging the hilt downwards the petals flew at his command, coalescing and swirling to crash down upon Ichigo. With a quick use of flash-step Ichigo was but a blur the image fading like a mirage in the desert. The tiny blades flew after Ichigo trying to tear at his skin and clothes, Ichigo's blade dispersed the petals momentarily as the blade cut through the air in harsh and swift strokes.

Springing back Ichigo thrust out the silver katana in front of him, the blade slowly staining an ink in colour around the hilt. Reaitsu began to surround Ichigo a fierce wind lifting dust from the ground and relieving the trees of the few leaves budding into existence. Chocolate eyes seemed to glow blue for a moment, a frown of concentration laced his features, and his voice rang out in the silence as he said, "Rise Zangetsu."

Ebony reaitsu curled around the blade sheathing its form from sight. As the reaitsu faded away Ichigo's Shikai was revealed, the blade was pure onyx in colour and it was far longer than any regular katana, the hilt was a cross guard that wrapped around in a circle with pointed crests, sharp spikes curved from the blade near the hilt with deadly points, the hilt was covered with a fabric of deep sable and hidden beneath was crimson fabric, at the end of the blade a chain hung making a clear tinkling sound and at the end of the iron chain a crescent shape hung.

Rose petals raised in challenge and Ichigo responded in kind raising Zangetsu. Senbonzakura flew forward trying to engulf Ichigo in its swirling mass of blades, Ichigo was already gone drawing near to Byakuya. Hastily the blades created a wall and begin to surround Ichigo, a shock or orange and sadistic smile was all that Byakuya could see of Ichigo from beneath the cover of pink.

"Getsuga Tensho!"

A wave of obsidian and lapis burst through the collection of petals hurling straight towards Byakuya on a path of destruction, Byakuya stepped away letting flash-step carry him far from the carnage as it dispersed where he once stood. Turning around to face Ichigo Byakuya channeled his reaitsu into his outstretched hand.

"Hado number four Byakurai!"

Pale white lightning arched from his hand towards Ichigo who arched an eyebrow in surprise before raising his blade letting the hado clash against the onyx blade sending sparks ablaze. Byakuya could feel his strength being seeped by the spell, letting it fall through Byakuya raised Senbonzakura only to feel the cool press of metal against his neck. Byakuya's chest seemed to fall in great heaving blows as he struggled for breath cool sweat beading his face and running down his back. Where Zangetsu touched his neck Byakuya could feel muted whispers and a reaitsu that was utterly confusing in its duality.

"I surrender."

Ichigo nodded behind him and the blade fell away letting Byakuya breathe easy once more. Turning around slowly Byakuya let his Shikai fade and with a tired smile he eloquently sheathed Senbonzakura who whispered proud nothings in his ear, Ichigo mirrored him sharing the same look with a hint of amusement in caramel eyes. Bowing low to each other Byakuya whispered, "It would be a miracle for to me to win this battle, thank you for fighting with your Shikai."

Ichigo's eyes peered out from a curtain of tangerine and he nodded before they straightened up and extended their hands to shake. Cheers burst out around them, like a stadium of wild beast the noise rose seemingly endless. It was only when the Soutaicho rose did the noise fall quiet leaving an eerie silence in its wake.

"Well done that battle was most formidable whichever squad receives you should be honoured to have you amongst their ranks."

In sync they turned and bowed to the Soutaicho mischievous grins hidden under their bangs and presented as humble smiles. Together they turned and left the arena, there was still a few more battle to follow.

X

Kaien's mind was a crash site, it was as if a meteor had conveniently decided to destroy his brain after the duel he had just witnessed. The two had released their Shikai! And they were spectacular, Byakuya's was powerful with elegance, beauty and a million opportunities. Ichigo's blade screamed power in the curves of its hilt and in the screaming wave of power that it unleashed.

Stalking forward Kaien followed his senses letting them lead him to where Ichigo and Byakuya hopefully were, more than a few times Kaien had followed only to find empty space. Ukitake-taicho and Kyroraku-taicho followed behind him a small distance back a quiet conversation between the two, Kuchiki-taicho had opted to stay and watch the final duels preferring to confront his grandson at a later time. Letting his gaze raise from where he was staring pensively at the earth below Kaien spotted Ichigo and Byakuya.

The two students were under a great elm tree with furrowed branches where a few leafs of emerald budding in the fresh spring air caught the fading sunlight. Ichigo's vibrant orange strands were visible against the pale folds of Byakuya's uniform, the two were leaning against the tree soft whispers drifting from their lips. Ichigo's head tilted and caramel orbs locked onto Kaien's eyes and a small welcoming smile slipped onto Ichigo's face. Smiling in return Kaien bounded over much like an excited puppy, he could hear the huff of laughter behind him as the two captains followed him.

"That battle was excellent! Your sword strokes were swift, and your Shiakai's were amazing to behold!"

A light dusting of rose painted Byakuya's cheeks and Ichigo looked down hastily gathering himself for a moment before letting his gaze rise. Byakuya smiled kindly and said, "Your words are very kind thank you."

Kaien smiled and strained his ears to hear the mumbled "thank you" that slipped underneath Ichigo's breath, Kaien scowled slightly before brightening again as Ukitake and Kyroraku arrived placing a warm hand on his shoulder softly reassuring him.

"So have you made your decisions on which squad you're joining?"

Kyroraku's soft baritone rumbled inquisitively, Byakuya laughed slightly before pointing at the carved silver Kenseikan in his hair, a gift from Ichigo that the young Noble had appreciated greatly. Ichigo remained quiet for a moment, seemingly lost in thought till Byakuya jostled his shoulder slightly, Ichigo shook himself orange hair swaying wildly and said, "Yes I've decided the eighth is the best squad for me right now."

Kyroraku let out a pleased noise, trading a wink with Ukitake he leaned over and whispered into the white-haired captain's ear. Kaien nodded equally pleased, he trusted Kyroraku and knew the man would look after his baby brother, it also gave him an easy excuse to drop in any time and say hello. Stretching slightly the nip of a cool wind tickled his cheeks and left goosebumps rising along his arms.

"Well I think this call for a celebration. If I recall correctly tomorrow you are graduating?" Ichigo and Byakuya nodded hesitantly at Kyroraku's inquiry trading glances filled with meaning, "Well then surly you we can get you two drunk, the ceremony isn't till nighttime anyway. That's plenty of time to get over a hangover! I remember one time Ju and I were piss drunk for a captain's meeting, well more than once. I think we started writing a ballad about old Yam-jii."

Ichigo laughed at Kyroraku's words and Kaien couldn't help the chuckle that escaped his own lips at the mere image of the two hunched together during a meeting scribbling on a stray piece of parchment and murmuring like a band of thieves.

"Shu… it wasn't totally like that though I am quite sure Yammamoto was on to us if the eyebrows were any indication."

The name was said with long suffering fondness and an exasperated look was thrown Kyroraku's way, Kaien chuckled and cast a curious gaze towards the two students sprawled against each other and asked, "So are you two interested?"

The two shared a glance with Ichigo shrugging and Byakuya raising an eyebrow as if they understood each other through those simple gestures. Silence reigned accompanied by a an aura of good humour and warmth as the students debated, finally Ichigo turned to face them a strange light in his eyes like shards of gemstone hid within caved depths.

"We'll go, what have we got to lose, other than our dignity."

Byakuya let out a slight huff at Ichigo's boastful words glaring at his friend he said, "You know he's going to kill me, he's already after my tail thanks to the "biscuit" incident as you've so fondly dubbed it."

Ichigo doubled over laughing, clutching his chest as his face became an alarming shade of red. Byakuya just laughed and patted his friend on the back leaning over to whisper something that sounded vaguely like "Karma."

Byakuya shook his head and stood up before extending his hand to Ichigo who took it after a few deep breaths, the rouge fading slightly. Kyroraku and Ukitake shared conspicuous glances, Kaien pouted and said, "It's not fair you both have besties and here is Kaien the poor third wheel to your duets!"

Ichigo stepped closer to Kaien before extending his hand and patting the top of Kaien's head leaving a warm trace of heat where his palm rested. Ichigo's voice was mocking and full of sarcasm and with a smirk he said, "There, there Kaien."

Kaien batted Ichigo's hand away with a growl and Ichigo's laughter accompanied by Ukitake lifted his heart. Shaking his head Byakuya flicked Ichigo on the nose before gesturing in a "lead the way" manner.

X

Ichigo growled in enjoyment as Zangetsu cut through the hordes of hollows that surrounded them, mismatched eyes of chocolate and gold starring at a sea of white and red. Laughing his voice came out in the dual tone rasp familiar to Shiro. Ichigo smiled feeling the reaitsu he had constricted so tightly over the year spill forth and decimate the weaker hollows striking at them like a cobra. The sand rose up to swirl around them, the grains flying like small droplets of rain as a Getsuga Tensho tainted crimson and ebony raced over pale sand.

Ichigo could feel the tension bleed from his shoulders, screw Aizen and his readings! It was unlikely that the sociopaths readings even reached this far, or that any espada had ventured close to the swirling vortex that was the end of Hueco Mundo. Ichigo had stumbled upon it when he was separated from his team and was chased by Ulquiorra for five days straight. The apathetic hollow could be surprisingly determined when it came to Aizen's orders, but that was before Orihime convinced him to join Soul Society (after she raised him from the dead?).

Letting himself sink back into his inner world he let Shiro take the reins, the ivory horns and bone mask appearing along with the pale skin and red tribal markings. Shiro let out a crow of glee Zangetsu like a chainsaw in his hands as he whipped back and forth taking out hollows with a pleasured intensity. Ichigo looked up in surprise as he felt a warm hand resting on orange locks, blue eyes hidden behind the yellow lens of Zangetsu's glasses stared down at him fondly.

"You are not worried about falling off the edge?"

Ichigo shook his head laughing, he had done that once pushed by a friend turned traitor. Ichigo had flailed in wordless fear as the air seemed to escape from his lungs, his skin had felt cool like he was drawing near death's door when the sand wrapped around him and set him upon silk grains. It was a mystery for Kisuke or another time.

Looking up at the pale crescent moon in a sea of grey Ichigo sighed and let reaitsu trickle from his hands, sprouts breaking through the concrete to curl and wrap around his fingers. In the softness and silence of Hueco Mundo Ichigo could feel a quiet not easily found, the solitude of the place was like his inner world in some ways and yet the feel of sand beneath your toes and the release of pent up reaitsu had its perks.

X

"God dammit! Captain Kyroraku you can drink your sake all you like just please stop using your bottles as paperweights."

Ichigo sighed as he shifted the bottle off the stake of paperwork "Shunsui" was signing, really the man didn't have to be so surprised that Ichigo could copy any signature. Then again it probably wasn't a common skill and one well-suited to Shunsui's needs.

"Ma, ma Ichi so mean."

Ichigo did not usually yell at his eccentric captain but that was the fifth time this afternoon that sake had spilled on the paperwork. How there could be stacks hidden under the carpet was still a mystery Ichigo had yet to solve.

Lisa huffed in the other corner of the room ebony hair in two long braids, round glasses hiding piercing aegean eyes from sight, her short shihaksho swirled around her thighs as she stood up. Ichigo winced slightly in looking at her, guilt and grief, twin forces, still haunted him every time she spoke and his failure to protect her was a bitter reminder and resolving determination. Turning to face Ichigo she smiled slightly, shifting her glasses she said, "Want to come get lunch with me Ichigo? Kyroraku-taicho can stay here in this dim office and finish the paperwork."

Ichigo nodded heaving himself up from the desk and stretching like a cat he stalked towards the door Lisa following behind him blind to Shunsui's whining in the background. Exiting the barracks the two Shinigami entered Rungokai the familiar smells and sounds welcome to the stunted shuffling of paperwork that filled the small office. Walking down a crowded cobble street Lisa turned to face Ichigo with a friendly smile Ichigo could see why she was being so kind, he was a new face, they shared the same captain, and they were likely to be stuck together for more than a few years.

"Know any good restaurants Ichigo?"

Lisa queried eyes roving around the crowded streets glancing at the many shops where people traveled often and carved wooden signs, Ichigo nodded and said, "One up ahead serves fantastic sandwiches and tea?"

Aegean eyes sparkled beneath clear glass lenses and she nodded with a smile before frowning and asking, "Do you mind if I go and see Nano-chan first?"

Ichigo nodded his eyes understanding before slightly uncertain he asked, "Do you mind if I come with?"

She nodded and the two left the crowded streets in a flurry of dust and flash-step. Heading towards Nano Ichigo suppressed a slight shudder at the thought of seeing the stern lieutenant reduced to a doe eyed child.

X

"It's funny from what I hear the squad members already consider you co-lieutenant and it's only been a week you've barely settled in."

Ichigo arched an eyebrow in surprise as they walked towards the restaurant a comfortable aura surrounding the two. Lisa had been impressed with how easily Nano connected with Ichigo, and Ichigo was having a silent panic attack on the inside the whole time, but he was fine… mostly… Zangetsu was there so it's alright… kinda.

As they were about to enter the restaurant Ichigo a Jigokuchō of deep raven landed on Lisa's shoulder, cocking her head slightly a frown slipped onto her face and her brow furrowed slightly. Turning to Ichigo a serious light in her eyes she said, "They need us in district eighty-one, there's reports of a hollow attack."

Ichigo sighed and with a shrug nodded his head, determination pooling in caramel orbs Lisa connected with his eyes and they darted off leaving the restaurant behind once again.

They arrived on a scene of havoc, a few of the lower seats were scattered about the scene of chaos splotches of crimson staining the white of their shihakshos. The other Shinigami were surrounding a large hollow bleached pale white with trails of ochre down its body, it had the rough shape of a bear and claws like one too. Immediately Lisa and Ichigo loosed their zanpaktou from their sheaths twin blades of silver glinting in the sunlight.

On light feet they raced towards the hollow Ichigo inclining towards the front while Lisa darted around to the back. Distracting the hollow was an easy matter, hado and bakudo slipped from his outstretched hands and in one swift motion the hollow was finished as Lisa's zanpaktou cleaved through its mask. A roar sounded to the left of them as the hollow in front began to disintegrate another one barrelled out of the trees, Ichigo jumped letting his blade raise and in a graceful arch he sliced through the mask feeling bone crumble beneath his blade.

"Is that the last of them?"

Lisa asked one of the Shinigami standing about in dim wonder, the Shinigami startled and nodded her head repeatedly, Lisa questioned the female Shinigami for a bit longer before turning and striding over to Ichigo.

"We can head back to the squad she can handle the rest."

Ichigo nodded and mourned the lost lunch for a moment before following Lisa and letting his mind mourn the incoming paperwork in its stead. Lisa turned with a smirk as they skirted over Rungokai and said, "We'll have to make up lunch sometime?"

Ichigo nodded and her lips curved up slightly as they landed in the familiar courtyard of the barracks of squad eight. Shunsui came out to meet them the smell of liquor potent on his breath, and evident in the tip of his straw hat and disarray of his flowered kimono.

"Enjoy your lunch? Lisa-chan you're too mean leaving me here all alone and not inviting me, and Ichi you're supposed to stand up for me!"

Lisa snorted dismissively shaking her head sending twin tails swirling while Ichigo laughed a slightly apologetic light in his eyes in a sincere voice Ichigo said, "We are very sorry for this grave offense captain."

Shunsui snorted seeing through the blatant lie and turned hiding a smile under the plain straw hat. Sharing a conspiratorial glance Lisa and Ichigo followed their captain up carved steps and through familiar wooden doors.

X

I hope you all enjoyed the chapter reviews are always welcome!

Crystal!