I don't need any calming tea!'
~Zuko

Chapter Eleven

A Cup of Tea

Scars, as many people had told her, were simply a testament to pain. It was better if she chose to wear them with pride rather than a scowl or frown. Nanao had decided after much deliberation, that it would be too difficult to disguise her obvious dislike for her wounds. The scars they had created were monstrous, and most of them failed to heal in an attractive way. In fact, her hands remained bruised, even after days of treatment within the Fourth Division. All that remained were thick red lines and scabs. Soon she would be able to train with kido again, although that was thinking on the bright side.

While flexing her fingers, Nanao winced in discomfort. The pain was odd to say the least. It seemed to come from her bones, rather than her muscles or flesh. If it rained out, she knew that her hands would become useless. It was the kind of injury that had drawbacks, rather than benefits. The wound along her torso on the other hand, was alright. It's source was terrible, but had some advantages. For instance, if Rangiku tried to take her swimming, she could avoid the occasion entirely. No one could force her to wear a bathing suit again. She had a choice to stay inside and simply read a good book, rather than skip about partially nude.

"Are you ready?"

Nanao looked toward the door, discarding her foolish thoughts. After having a good cry, Isane, Momo, and Rangiku had insisted on packing up her room. They literally bundled her up in some random blanket, and sat her in a deserted corner. After that, they made a point of avoiding any subject that revolved around Shunsui. They talked her ear off about random topics, most of which revolved around the Women's Association and Yachiru's antics. Nanao had managed to smile a variety of times, which seemed to lift her friend's moods. There was a chance everything could slide back in place. Her situation would just have to be treated with absolute delicacy.

After the packing was completed, Nanao was rushed to the Fifth Division. She was told to relax while her friends dealt with everything. It was a nice gesture, but she felt as though she should have been a part of it. It was the only way she could have gained some piece of mind, but of course Isane, Momo, and Rangiku disagreed. They insisted that there were other ways she could confront her feelings, all of which had nothing to do with the Eighth Division office. The whole situation was depressing, but Nanao had to admit, she felt a little bit better. Crying had somehow lifted her soul and arriving to her new home—that was the cherry on top of the cake. She felt more confident, as if she could start anew. It was actually sort of nice.

"Are you listening, Nanao? We're going to be late."

For the second time, Nanao shook her head and looked toward the door. It was Momo. She had been wondering around her new room for days, attempting to made sure she was both safe and comfortable. Her behaviour was honestly touching, and Nanao was thankful. It felt like years since she had someone to lean on. After her mess with Shunsui, she literally believed in no one. Humanity was evil in her mind. For a moment however, she was glad to have the ability to depend on her friends.

"Sorry," Nanao said softly, "I didn't mean to ignore you. I was just thinking."

"About what?" Momo asked before gliding into the room. Her hands brushed against a nearby dresser, a gift that Nanao had received a long time ago. It was a warm honey colour, a hue that shone within the early morning light.

"I've only been here a few days. Are you sure I won't be intruding? I just don't want to be rude. I'm new and I don't know the rules—"

A laugh exploded throughout the air. "Don't be foolish! Azien-taichou requested this meeting! He wants to see you! How many times have I told you that he is a gracious man? He is simply wonderful! He'll help you, Nanao. I know it."

In reality, she didn't doubt his abilities. Nanao knew that Azien was a very talented man. Still, she doubted that her presence was worth his time. Her rank had been stolen from her, as well as her power. She was an empty husk that needed to be filled again. Many people would avoid her like the plague, as she was a daunting challenge. There was a small, almost infinitesimal, chance that she would become a skilled warrior again. Unohana-tachiou had said as much during the meeting. Nanao was basically a lost cause. The four months given to her were a gift—a simple declaration of sorrow. It was hard to admit, but it was the truth. The days given to her had to be used to say goodbye.

"Are you sure? I just don't understand his motives."

A groan danced throughout the air. "You are overthinking this whole situation, Nanao! Listen to what I am telling you! I know Aizen-taichou like the back of my hand. He wants to help you. Why else would he ask you become apart of the Fifth Division? He knows that you can be healed."

A sigh slipped through Nanao's lips. "Are you certain? You might be placing too much confidence in my—"

"Don't say that again! Negativity gets you nowhere! Just believe in Aizen-taichou, alright? I promise you'll be fine. Now follow me. We can't be late for tea!"

Nanao nodded and followed Momo out of her new room. Several days ago, after arriving to the Fifth Division, she was requested to join Aizen for tea. The demand had ben surprising, as she believed his time would have been limited. Despite her suspicions however, he seemed completely free. She appreciated his time, and would be sure to thank him after her arrival. It was nice to hear that he may have had the ability to improve her condition. She was willing to try, especially after all of her worthless tears.

"Any more questions? We are almost there, so if there's anything you want to know about the meeting, I'll tell you."

"Is there anything I should know?" Nanao said while starring at Momo from the corner of her eye. It was surprising that they were about to enter Aizen's office, as she still wasn't in the best condition for moving around. Still, she had to have faith in herself. Maybe she was beginning to heal after all.

"Not really. He might talk about training, if that's alright with you of course."

"That's fine."

Momo smiled and patted Nanao in the shoulder gently. "I'm glad to see that you are feeling a little better. Looking toward the future is always better than remaining in the past."

Those last few words were supposed to create comfort, but only served to remind Nanao of what once was. She sighed miserably and once again starred at her fingertips. It would take a long time before she would forget about the past. Sure, she could choose to look ahead, but there was no way she could disregard what had occurred. Her wounds, as many people chose to tell her, were a testament to her pain. They remained despite her desperation for them to simply vanish.

"Here we are!" Momo chanted cheerily while gesturing to a nearby sliding door.

It seemed familiar in an odd sort of way. Nanao had visited Azien-taichou before, but not to have tea. She had once dropped off a variety of documents, all of which had some relevance to money or security within the Seireitei. She might of shared one or two word's with Momo's superior, but never a full conversation. The whole situation was daunting, and Nanao didn't know what to think.

Before she could protest however, Momo had already knocked on the door. She smiled brightly before throwing the entrance open and quickly springing into the room. Nanao pinched her nose in worry. Doubt assaulted her brain again, which made her knees weak. Never in her entire life did she want to return to her room. She may have been an introvert, but always had some sort of priority. Unfortunately, she had no motivation today. Confidence refused to filer throughout her body. She honestly felt like another annoying and childish recruit.

"You can come in, Nanao! Don't be shy!"

Before Nanao could think, she chose to walk into the room. It was far better to follow Momo's commands, rather that question them. She was honestly surprised at what she saw. Her friend was chatting full heartedly with her superior, a smile plastered across her face. She looked incredibly content. Her mood seemed to stretch across the floorboards, quickly reeling Nanao in. She had no choice but to sit down. Otherwise she would have looked like a complete fool.

"I apologize, Hinamori-fukutaichou." Nanao said softly, allowing her professional nature to take over. "I didn't mean to ignore your request. I am not familiar with the environment surrounding the Fifth Division. It's quite peaceful." As she finished her sentence, her eyes came into contact with Aizen. He seemed incredibly at peace. The glasses along his face glinted in the afternoon light, which only seemed to enhance his smile. He appeared to be kind, but Nanao didn't know what to think. She wasn't one to base assumptions on first meetings.

"Ise Nanao, it is a pleasure to welcome you to the Fifth Division. I can assure you, the environment you see is unlikely to change."

"I would have to agree. Under your leadership, I'm certain it will continue to prosper."

A small smile stretched across Aizen's lips. "You're very kind. I see that your reputation proceeds you."

"Thank you." Nanao murmured quietly, adjusting her position along the cushions on the floor. She glanced at Momo, and wasn't shocked that a bright grin continued to bloom across her face. Her friend harboured a great deal of respect for her superior. She believed him to be the best person in all of Soul Society. For a moment, Nanao could see why. He was generous and exuded an aura of kindness that was simply unbelievable.

"Momo, would you care to pour some tea? There is plenty to discuss in such little time."

"Of course!"

When a steaming cup was placed between Nanao' fingertips, she chose to talk. She had promised to thank the individual who had chosen to take her in. It wasn't like her situation was desirable in any shape or form. She was certain that with any other circumstances, she would have been left on the street.

"Azien-taichou, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for what you have done for me. I am aware that my condition is undesirable in a Division such as this. Despite that, my services are at your disposal. I am a competent worker. I can control a crowd. I will help you in any means necessary."

"That is quite the offer, but I truly deserve nothing in return for my actions. Any officer with the correct frame of mind would have taken you in. You have a irreplaceable set of skills. True talent is very difficult to find these days." Azien said after a sip of tea.

Nanao shifted uncomfortably. "I appreciate your kind words, but my situation is quite detrimental."

"I have to disagree."

Another jolt of surprise travelled throughout Nanao's veins. "I beg your pardon, sir?"

Aizen sighed before taking another sip of tea. He took his time, seeming to enjoy the sudden pause in conversation. As he set his cup down, he met Nanao's gaze slowly. His stare was difficult to deal with. It was filled with knowledge and the desire to learn. She could detect understanding and compassion, something she needed to see for once. Many people didn't have the ability to comprehend what she had gone through, and yet Aizen already seemed to know.

"I know every detail about your case and condition, Ise Nanao. I discussed your experiences with Unohana-taichou and Isane Kotetsu. I would give you my sympathy, but I'm afraid you would deny it. That's not what you want to hear. I believe that you need something constructive, and you arrival to the Fifth Division is a testament to that."

"I'm afraid I do not follow."

"I can mend your condition, Nanao." Aizen said with certainty.

Those words sent Nanao reeling within her mind. "That's impossible."

"Quite the contrary. I know what ails you."

Confusion seeping into Nanao's brain. She didn't understand. Her condition went beyond that of the medical world. It was spiritual. Her energy, the life that once flowed throughout her body, was the source of her problems. It was slowly destroying her life. Without it, she would have no place to call home, or no skill to call upon in her moments of need. It was simply insane that one man believed he had a way to solve everything.

"I have difficulty believing that."

"Please listen, Nanao." Momo suddenly said softly. "Remember what I told you? Aizen-taichou can help."

"She speaks wisely." Aizen began, once again starring into Nanao's grey eyes. "I can truly assist you. The issue you have is far from spiritual. From what I have gathered, you have the ability to communicate with you zanpakuto spirit. I don't know the extent of those conversations, but that's hardly my concern. What I know, is that if you can accomplish that, the issue that concerns you stems from a different cause."

"What's that?" Nanao asked in a clear voice.

Azien smiled wearily. "Your mind."

Silence dominated the room for several moments. Nanao fiddled with her teacup as his words bounced around her head. She didn't want to admit it, but his idea held a grain of truth. Her zanpakuto had communicated with her numerous times, all of which had some sort of consequence that expended energy. It was certainly possible that her condition had been created due to her brain.

"Please explain, Aizen-taichou."

He nodded before continuing to speak. "I am aware that you have suffered physically, but has it ever occurred to you that one can suffer due to the mind? What you experienced was dreadful. In order to protect yourself, I assume some sort of natural reflex kicked in. Your spiritual energy drained into your zanpakuto."

"That was explained during the meeting." Nanao stated calmly.

"I am aware of that, although the Gotei Thirteen chose to discredit your worth. I believe you are suffering from a form of PTSD, or post traumatic stress disorder. Unohana-taichou seemed to share my beliefs. You fear conflict and the individual who may have caused it. Therefore, you chose to hide within yourself. Whether you are aware of the development or not, isn't relevant. What matters is that it needs to be solved."

"May have caused it?" Nanao quoted, bringing out a statement within Aizen's explanation.

He smiled before taking another swig of tea. "Kyoraku-taichou's innocence currently remains unknown."

Choosing to ignore the last issue, Nanao continued to speak. She had hundreds of questions, many of which she hoped Aizen would answer."You think my presence in the Fifth Division will heal me?"

"Of course. The environment here is quite suitable for your needs. I have a training proposal for you, one which I am sure you will enjoy."

Nanao remained silent, completely stunned by Aizen's words. It was amazing that he was already prepared to offer her some form of assistance. He was so confident that she could be healed. She could suddenly understand why Momo had been so positive. Her friend seemed to be surrounded by a constant stream of happy thoughts. It was impossible to be negative in an environment that promoted the wellbeing of others. In many ways it was beautiful and Nanao was truly grateful.

"I will hear your proposal," Nanao began in a light tone, "but I have been told by both Unohana-taichou and Kotetsu-fukutaichou, that I am in no condition to experience strenuous activity. My wounds have only just closed, and I must continue to be treated with kido for at least two weeks."

Azien nodded his head. "I am aware of your conditions, Ise Nanao, did I not tell you that before? The training schedule I have composed is hardly strenuous, and will likely calm you, rather than promote any harm. Momo, can you explain?"

"Yes, Aizen-taichou!" She paused to adjust her position along the floor. "Nanao, you are scheduled to begin training at the start of next week."

Surprise filtered throughout Nanao's veins again. That was far too early. More likely than not, she would end up hurting herself again. She had difficulty believing that it was even possible to begin training at such an early date. She was still and emotional wreck, not to mention a priceless fool. She had a long way to go before she would have to ability to wield a zanpakuto again, let along perform a kido incantation.

With worry, she ran a hand along the back of her head. "Are you certain that is wise?"

"Yes!" Momo said cheerfully. "You will begin some low key kido exercises with me, nothing spectacular. With Aizen-taichou, you will meditate in order to calm the mind."

"I apologize, but I don't want to infringe upon your time. Are you certain—"

"Don't be foolish, Ise Nanao." Azien stated while gathering all of the empty teacups scattered across the table. "I would be honoured to help you in any way. Four months is not a lot of time. I suggest that we make the most of it."

Nanao nodded in understanding. She slowly climbed to her feet, taking Azien's actions as an early dismissal. Her visit had obviously come to an end. The tea was gone and all that remained were the fragments of a long lost conversation. It had went well, and she was shocked to see that Momo had been right. The meeting was a a success. Aizen-taichou was a good man that certainly wanted to help. It was truly possible that her transfer to the Fifth Division had been a good thing. Sure, it was sad, but some good had to come from it.

"I'd like to thank you for your time. It was a privilege talking to you."

Another grin slid across Aizen's mouth. "Once again, your kindness proceeds you. Unfortunately, I have to disagree—it was an honour to meet you, Nanao. You have survived an encounter that was quite unpleasant. Your presence here is a testament to your strength and endurance."

"Thank you."

Aizen nodded his head before climbing to his feet as well. "Before you leave, I must remind you of something I'm certain you've forgotten."

Confusion slowly seeped into Nanao's mind again. "Okay."

"You have been ordered to attend to Jushiro Ukitake within the Thriteenth Division once a week. This was agreed upon during you meeting with the Gotei Thirteen. I will leave the time of your visit up to your discretion. I'm certain he will appreciate your presence."

It was impossible to forget such an order. Nanao knew what she had to accomplish once a week. It had haunted her every day since she had transferred from the Eighth Division. Jushiro was Shunsui's best friend. He would, without a doubt, think poorly of her actions during the meeting. She had insulted her previous superior in a manner that was absolutely degrading. If he didn't treat her with some form of disrespect, she would be completely surprised. She certainly deserved to be questioned.

"Yes, I am aware of that order."

"Excellent. I hope you have a pleasant afternoon."

Nanao nodded before following Momo out of the room. As soon as they reached a nearby courtyard, her friend seemed to explode. She praised Aizen's kindness and understanding, throwing her hands into the air like a happy child. It was amusing to see her act in such a way. It was more than apparent that she cared for her superior in both a professional and commendable manner. Nanao had once felt that way about another person once before. The thought of the relationship created a bubble of sadness within her mind. She had looked up to Shunsui despite his ridiculous behaviour. Her love and admiration flowed out behind her like a bright red cape. It was often hidden, but she couldn't deny her feelings. They had brought her to life.

In thought, Nanao looked up towards the sky, slowly blocking out Momo's enthusiastic voice. She may have cried the day before, but now she felt some form of hope. There was a chance she could become whole again. Her missing puzzle pieces, the remnants of her soul that remained trapped within the clearing, could be found. It was possible to build her body up from the ground. She would stand stronger—stand taller, and allow no one to push her towards earth. She was a marble statue. She would remain despite the elements that sought to destroy her.

A/N: Here is a new chapter for all of you wonderful people! It is definitely longer, but should make up for the next one, as I plan to make it quite short. At least I think I do, I'm really not sure yet. Anyways, despite that, here is a new chapter! We get our first taste of Aizen, which is interesting to day the least. I had a fun time writing this character, that's for sure. I apologize if this story is moving slowly—everything is beginning to fall in place, so things should get more interesting soon. I have to build the situation up, before I can tear it down. Please be patient with me everyone!

Like usual, thank you for continuing to supporting this fictional tale! I appreciate the feedback I receive immensely! It's quite the motivator, I can tell you that. Please enjoy this new chapter and feel free to leave a review!

*My family is moving at the conclusion of this week. I may have difficulty updating this story, so I apologize for any inconvenience!*

~IronEclipse