Chapter Eleven
It has been five weeks since Orihime came to Hueco Mundo. Szayel has upped Lilith's dose of spirit energy Booster to two a day. She is now about 8-9 months along approximately. The double dose has sped up her pregnancy considerably.
Lilith wobbled down the hall as fast as she could. "'Hime! ORIHIME!" She yelled down the hall.
Orihime opened the door, poking her head out.
"Orihime! Did you feel it? Tell me you felt it!" Lilith paused, huffing, holding onto the wall and her extreme swollen belly.
"I don't understand."
Ulquiorra appeared behind Lilith, his voice making her yelp.
"Your soul reaper has come with your friends."
"Why would they come here?" Orihime cocked her head to the side
"Oh my God idiot… to save you! YOU'RE GOING TO BE SAVED!" Lilith yelled out her excitement.
"They should go back. I came here to protect them."
"Orihime, sweetie, you're pissing me off. Don't be stupid. They're all stronger than you will ever be. They have more of a chance than you're giving them credit for."
Ulquiorra put his hand over Lilith's mouth. "Don't give her false hope. Remember both of you are on our side. Now say it."
"I belong to Lord Aizen. I am here for his will and-"
"Shut up Inoue. Ichigo will save you. He came against direct orders."
"Don't seems so happy about it." Ulquiorra's voice seemed a bit clipped
"I am NOT on Aizen's side. Anyone actually on his side is my enemy. I will cut them down."
"This is not the time, Woman."
"Orihime! He's coming for you regardless. You're almost out!" Lilith let out. Squeal of excitement.
Ulquiorra grabbed Lilith's arm, pulling her back down the hall. "Let go… I wanted to try something before she leaves me." Lilith pouted.
"Like what?" Ulquiorra stopped but wouldn't let her go.
"I want to try to make something beautiful with her reversal…"
"I get to watch."
Lilith rolled her eyes. "Yes. Now let's make a miracle."
Ulquiorra finally let go of Lilith, walking her pace back to Orihime's room.
"Orihime, may Ulquiorra and I come in?"
"You're wasting my time." Ulquiorra opened the door.
"Hime?"
"Be right out!" She yelled awkwardly from the bathroom.
Lilith walked to the bathroom door, slightly opening it. Peeping through, she saw Orihime struggling with the uniform. Lilith opened the door, walking in she saw bruises on Orihime's back.
"Did Ulquiorra do that to you?"
Lilith looked up, wide eyed, "No."
"Grimmjow?"
"No."
"Was he tall and wearing a patch across his left eye?"
Orihime said nothing.
"Fucking Nnoitra. Did he rape you, Orihime?"
Orihime shifted uncomfortably, "N-no." She looked down.
"I see. Did he finish?" Lilith walked over to Orihime, helping her with the dress.
"No. Someone stopped him. I don't know who."
"I'm glad to hear that. And I'm so sorry. I know you were saving your self for that blind idiot Kurosaki." Lilith gently hugged Orihime. "I want to try something with you. With your Shun shun Rikka."
"You want me to shake my what-a?" Orihime gave a light laugh.
"When you're done, please come out. Ulquiorra and I are waiting. And please, heal yourself."
Lilith wobbled out the bathroom, smiling at Ulquiorra until the door latched. Her smile instantly fell. "Where the hell were you, Ulquiorra?"
"In a meeting with Lord Aizen."
"Who saved her?"
"Probably Ichimaru."
"When we are done here, I have business to attend to."
"You will not and cannot." Ulquiorra knew her intent.
"You're going to stop me?"
"By all means necessary."
Orihime opened the door., her head down. "I…I'm sorry."
"Orihime, go to that corner. Shiore, return." Lilith's Zanpakuto disappeared.
Following Orihime to the corner, Lilith prepared herself for failure. "hold out your hands to the bottom corner. Use your Soten Kisshun and reject the space."
"I don't understand."
"Stop questioning me and do as I'm asking. You're being difficult."
Orihime slowly reached out her hands to the base of the floor in the corner. "Soten Kisshun, I reject." A small shield formed, essentially Healing the floor creating a small black hole.
"Chikyu No. Tsurino Ruto." Lilith placed her hands next to Orihime's. "Hana." A small twig like object appeared from the hole. "Saku!" the twig quickly grew into a small tree. Lilith put her hands down, allowing Orihime to continue healing the space. Soon cherry blossoms appeared.
"You can stop now, Orihime." Lilith whispered.
Orihime slowly put her hands down. Her mouth slightly opened, staring. "Wow."
"Ulquiorra. Can we keep this between us? And can we do two more rooms?"
"Three and I'll even let you try to kill Nnoitra with out stopping you."
"Orihime, are you up for doing this in three more rooms?"
"We can do this again? Can we do more than three? It's so beautiful."
"I know. Team work is a magical thing. Don't underestimate it. Come on. Next room. My old room."
Orihime walked behind Lilith. Her mood was considerably happier.
Lilith, Orihime and Ulquiorra finished the old room, Grimmjow's room and made their way to Ulquiorra's room. Both ladies stopping at the door he had opened, staring at each other in disbelief.
"When did he get a sense of style?" Lilith whispered to Orihime
"For what we have here, he sure made out well." Orihime whispered back.
"You made out with Ulquiorra?" Lilith asked loudly
"Oh my gosh! No! Not what I meant!" Orihime's voice squeaked as she blushed.
"You like him!" Lilith teased whispering again. "He's not bad company."
"He doesn't say much." Orihime said softly
"He's not bad to look at either." Lilith grinned, making Orihime blush fiercely. "He's quiet but very observant. He's strong and protective. He's curious and more knowledgeable than you'd ever think. He may not look it, but he does actually care. He just has a hard time showing it, or expressing it."
"He shows it pretty well with you. Most of them do here." Orihime walked into the room.
"Hime?"
"Yes?"
"It's about your spirit. Don't ever let them see your spirit broken. It will be the end of you. I am trusted because I don't have to fake anything here. They know my nature, they know my actions, they know I'm stubborn."
"Will you hurry up already, woman? You've given too many speeches. Stop." Ulquiorra's voice came from a corner
"You weren't supposed to be listening. Next time just ignore me." Lilith teased.
"Sometimes I wish I could." Ulquiorra retorted
"Ulquiorra Cifer! Was that sarcasm I just heard? Are you feeling well?" Lilith laughed shaking her head.
"Lily, just get over here. Now." Ulquiorra rolled his eyes.
"He…He just…rolled his eyes…" Orihime slowly stuttered
"Really must be sick." Lilith said to the side, walking over to Ulquiorra. Ulquiorra lightly slapped her on the head.
"I'm fine. Thanks for asking and not assuming."
"Orihime, are you ready?"
"Yes!" Orihime's smile was wide and her eyes were bright.
"Ulquiorra, yours isn't going in the corner. 'Hime, come over here to me." Lilith was bracing herself against the middle of the wall on the far end. "About a quarter of the way up."
Orihime did as asked. "Soten Kisshun, I reject." She began to reverse and heal the space.
Lilith brought her hands up. "Tsurino Ruto. Mmh!" She put one hand down to her stomach, wincing. "H-Hana!" Lilith said with a little more effort. "Argh! Ulquiorra!"
Ulquiorra was immediately at her side, his hand on her sides, slightly releasing spiritual energy.
Lilith let out a few deep breaths. "Saku!" She waited til she saw the blossoms before she put her hand down, her steps faltering.
"Orihime, stop. Focus on Lilith." Ulquiorra said, holding Lilith up.
"I'm-Agh-fine!" Lilith said through clenched teeth, her eyes squeezed shut.
"Soten Kisshun, I reject!" Orihime's shield enveloping Lilith's body.
Lilith looked up, gasping. "Ulquiorra, I'm so sorry…your tree…"
"It's amazing. It couldn't have been done better." Ulquiorra was still holding on to Lilith's sides.
"But, it grew awkwardly. Its shape isn't like the others."
"I'm also not like the others. Besides, it grew this way when my nieces were attempting to come out. They'll be here any day now. You've depleted your and their spiritual energy. We need to get it back up."
"Ulquiorra, will you really be there for the girls and protect them?"
"Yes."
"I need you to swear it. You will protect them from harm by anyone except me because I'm not stupid enough to hurt my girls. But you have to swear you will protect them even from Aizen and Grimmjow if the occasion calls for it. Even from soul reapers."
Ulquiorra paused a few moments. "I will die protecting them. You have my word."
"Thank you, Ulquiorra." Lilith put her hands on his giving a gentle pat.
"Do I want to know?" Grimmjow asked entering the room.
"Grimmjow!" Lilith held out her hand, shaking it. "C'Mere."
Grimmjow walked over slowly, "I think you're just fine in Ulquiorra's hands. Woman, let's go. Aizen wants to see you."
Orihime's smile fell quickly.
"'Hime, just remember what I've been telling you. You're going to be okay." Lilith took Orihime's hand giving it a slight squeeze and a smile. "Thank you, Orihime."
"Grimmjow, what's wrong?" Lilith could sense something was off.
"Nothing. Woman. Now before I drag you out of here." Orihime stood up quickly walking to Grimmjow.
Lilith got up as fast as she could, putting herself in front of Orihime. Grimmjow was reaching for Orihime's arm. "El Escudo." A weak shield formed, but still stopped him from reaching further. "You're a terrible liar, Grimmjow."
Grimmjow reached through the barrier, grabbing Lilith's arm tightly, pulling her to him by force. "You will get out of my way and you will do it now." He pushed her back.
Ulquiorra was quick to catch her, stopping her from falling.
"You're being an asshole to me. We don't appreciate it."
"I don't care about your opinion. Or theirs. Woman, get out and stand in the hall." Grimmjow pointed to the door.
"Yes, Sir," Orihime looked down, not daring to lock eyes with Grimmjow.
"What the hell, Grimmjow?" Lilith's temper rising. "What did I do to you? Or what put you in this mood? How can I fix it?"
Grimmjow walked up taking her chin in between his thumb and index. "You're obviously comfortable in another man's arms. I hope your ex fiancé comes here so I can kill him before your eyes."
"But you don't even know what happened." Lilith's eyes burned with tears
"Like I said, I don't care." Grimmjow let go of her chin. "Tears make you look like shit. Go clean yourself up."
Lilith took a sharp breath
"Grimmjow, you're being unreasonable." Ulquiorra sat Lilith down on his bed.
"It's none of your damn business, Ulquiorra. And if you're going to have your hands on what doesn't belong to you, be careful. But that," Grimmjow stared at Lilith, sneering. "Is all yours. And Aizen wants to see you too." Grimmjow turned, walking out of the room
Ulquiorra looked back at Lilith who was staring off, tears rolling down her face. "I'll be fine." Her voice was almost monotone. "Go ahead. It's not like there's much trouble I can get into."
"I'll talk to him." Ulquiorra turned to walk out the room
"Don't worry about it. He doesn't care."
"You're stupid if you believe that." Ulquiorra reached the door. "Stay here for a few and rest. I'll have Szayel come find you."
"Yeah. Thanks."
Ulquiorra hesitantly left Lilith alone in his room.
Lilith waited a few minutes until she could no longer feel the spiritual presence of any arrancar before she tried, and failed, multiple times to get off the bed. Lilith finally made it off the bed, moving slowly through Ulquiorra's room to the door. Although Lilith knew better than to leave and wander, she decided to walk the halls anyway. She wanted to be in her room. She wanted to be alone.
Finally making it to her room, she slowly opened the door, holding on to her stomach. It almost reached the door before her fingers could. Suddenly fluid fell from Lilith causing a searing pain that made her fall to her knees.
"GRIMMJOW! ULQUIORRA!" She screamed out, bracing herself on her hands and knees. Reaching out she pushed the door open with as much force as she could bare, crawling one knee at a time in between her contractions. Tears were rolling down her face from the unbearable pain. "Grimm…JOW!" She screamed his name through another contraction. She had made it half way through the room when she felt a spiritual presence.
"HELP!" She yelled out, hoping they'd hear her. "PLEASE!"
Lilith took a few deep breaths trying to calm herself. She wasn't ready. She didn't want to be alone anymore.
"Shiore! Help me. Please help me." Lilith sobbed between her contractions.
"I'm going to have to become a full hollow to stop this process until help comes. Bear with me, Lily. I can feel your pain too."
"Do whatever you can. Just hurry!"
Shiore quickly took over, Lilith's eyes completely golden. Reaching back, she touched her flower birthmark, sliding her hand across
"Chikyu No. Sakura no Shi." A burst of light exploded around Lilith's body, her body bowing backwards slightly. Her mask quickly began to cover her body in tatters, unevenly. Her leg was wrapped in a spiral mask up to her pelvis on the left leg. A Segment covered her private areas, wrapping around to her behind. The sides had two thin
pieces that were an inch apart. The formation also made a "Y" formation on her chest stopping at her navel. Her back was completely uncovered. Her Birthmark was now raised and blooming.
Shiore crawled the rest of the way to the bathroom, grabbing two towels on the way. Putting herself in the shower under warm water, she covered her nethers with the first towel. She leaned her head and back against the wall, closing her eyes.
"Just hold on a little longer Lilith. Try to hold on a little longer." Shiore whispered.
A few minutes later she felt a familiar spiritual pressure close to her. "HEY ASSHOLE! HELP!" Shiore yelled from the shower
She waited for what seemed like an eternity, when finally, a shadow was cast over her
"Who the hell are you?" Shiore heard Grimmjow unsheathe his Zanpakuto. "Where's Lilith?"
"I need you to get Gin, Orihime, Harribel and Ulquiorra stat before Lilith dies." Shiore opened her eyes
"Shiore? What happened?"
"This is my true hollow form. But seriously. We can't hold on much longer. She will die before she can give birth to the girls. Orihime can heal her. Gin has substantial Spiritual pressure which we need to get through this. The girls are quickly depleting ours. Please, be quick." Shiore squinted her eyes, feeling a contraction. She knew it was worse for Lilith.
"Fine." Grimmjow turned around walking out
"Hey Idiot. Mind lending some of your spiritual pressure so we might last while you take your sweet ass time?"
Grimmjow walked back over, placing his hands on Shiore, exerting a higher amount of Spiritual energy from him than she'd ever felt.
"Thank you. It won't last long. Please, hurry." Shiore closed her eyes again, trying not to move.
Grimmjow finally came back with Ulquiorra, Ichimaru and Orihime to find Lilith and transformed back and was laying on the floor. Her pulse was weak and her heart was barely beating.
"Suzuran?" Ichimaru bent down feeling her neck. "Orihime, heal her. Now!"
"Yes sir! Soten Kisshun, I reject!" Her shield formed around all of Lilith's body, repairing her. Shortly everyone heard a gasp followed by a scream from Lilith
"GRIMM-JOW!" She screamed his name, contracting.
"It's okay, Suzuran. I'm here, as are Ulquiorra and Orihime."
"Gin. Get behind me so I can brace myself. And pour your energy into me. Flood me."
"We just basically brought you back to life. I'm not going to-"
"DAMNIT GIN JUST FUCKING DO IT!"
Everyone stared at Gin, waiting for him to move. Hesitantly doing so he lifted Lilith, the water still running in the shower. Sitting down, he propped his knees up, letting Lilith rest her back against his bare chest. Gin put his hands on her stomach releasing energy.
"More." Shiore intertwined with Lilith
Gin did as asked, giving his energy a higher nudge
"That's perfect, Ichimaru. Stay steady. Ulquiorra, we need three towels. Now. And find Grimmjow. He needs to catch his daughters. Orihime, I'm going to need you at the end of the birth. Please, stay in here."
"I'm not catching them." She heard Grimmjow's voice from around the corner.
Ulquiorra walked out the door, punching Grimmjow's arm hard. "They need you. Regardless of your stupid opinion and thoughts."
"No." Grimmjow crossed his arms.
"You realize she was having contractions this morning. I was pouring energy into her to get them to almost stop."
Grimmjow's hardened expression changed.
"You really are an asshole. You should have asked." Ulquiorra left, finding more towels.
"Either come in and be a part of their birth and essentially their lives, or get the fuck out." Grimmjow heard Shiore snarl her words to him.
Grimmjow looked in, seeing her in Ichimaru arms pissed him off.
"I'll leave then."
"If you walk away you will have no part of Delilah or Grace's life."
"Whatever." Grimmjow turned back around
"You irresponsible adolescent jackass. Don't you understand?"
"What did you just call me?"
"I want you to be a part of their lives. I want you to be a family with the girls and I. I want you to be there. Fuuuucckkkk...ing hell. Grimmjow. Decide. Now."
Grimmjow said nothing. Ulquiorra walked in with a stack of fluffy white towels.
"By the way, I haven't forgiven you for this morning, so I'm pissed at you."
Grimmjow rolled his eyes walking into the bathroom. "What do you want me to do?"
"Take my pants off." She looked dead at him, slightly smirking.
"For fucks sake." He face palmed. "Even when you're in pain you find a way to be a pervert." He rolled his eyes
"Sorry Gin. But I trust you. And you're staying right where you are. And you get to see your nieces birth. You're welcome."
Gin looked at Grimmjow apologetically.
Grimmjow walked over bending down, gently removing her pants and loosening her shirt.
"When she…they…come out they will go straight to your chest. Let them feed." Grimmjow looked at Lilith. "Ulquiorra, when the first out is full you get tasked with holding her while we deliver the second. Orihime, stay back until we need you. Ulquiorra, hold her hand so she doesn't kill Ichimaru." Grimmjow took over commands, relieving Lilith.
"Where's Harribel?" Lilith remembered she wanted her there too
"We don't have time for that. They are coming fast. Ichimaru, let off your pressure. She needs to push. Ulquiorra, ready a towel."
"Grimmjow, Aizen is not allowed near them." She said quickly, feeling her lower region contracting painfully. "AHH!" She threw her bead back into Ichimaru chest, clutching his thighs tightly, her fingers digging in
"Ow. Ow…OW!" Gin winced.
"Nngghh aaahhhhh!" Lilith stared Grimmjow in the face, who was now squatting at her level.
"Breathe, Lily. I'm right here. Take a deep breath or two and push. She's ready."
Lilith listened to him, taking a few deep breaths and pushed. She did this a few times until she finally heard her baby crying.
"She's absolutely beautiful." Grimmjow used his Zanpakuto to cut the cord. He gently held her under the shower, letting the fluid wash off. Handing her to Lilith he asked, "What's her name?"
Lilith brought the newborn to her chest, allowing her to latch. Her eyes scanning over the newborn, she noticed she had a similar marking as Grimmjow on her face, but nowhere as big.
"Delilah Jaegerjaquez Suzuran. She even has your eyes."
"Delilah? I like it." Grimmjow beamed at Lilith who was resting on Gin. Gin was peeking over her shoulder. His eyes completely open and a smile on his face.
"She's beautiful, Lily. You did a great job. But you still have a second to deliver."
"Why'd you have to remind me? Can't she just stay in until I'm ready? OOOOWWW!"
"That would be a no." Ulquiorra said, giving her hand a light squeeze.
"That was rhetorical!" Lilith looked down at her belly. "Don't you sass me young lady!"
Grimmjow gave her an odd look.
"What? She kicked me." Lilith's face immediately dropped it's smile. "Ul-quiorra… take Delilah. Quickly and gently. Grace is getting to make a dramatic entrance!" Lilith took a deep breath, pushing hard. "Gaaahhhh!" She screamed, taking a quick breath, pushing again.
"Lilith, slow down."
"NO! Something is wrong!" tears fell down her face as she pushed again in agonizing pain. "Hold on Grace!" She said through clenched teeth. Bearing down again she gave another hard push.
"I've got her head, Lilith. Just a few more pushes and she's out…" Grimmjow gave a funny look to Ulquiorra who in turn raised his brow.
"You better stop that look before I smack it off both of you. What's …Wrong?" Lilith gave another push, feeling a jagged tear. "Damnit Grace! You're being a little shit! Cooperate!"
Grimmjow, Ulquiorra and Gin all laughed.
"Shut up. All of you." Lilith gave her final push. "Orihime!"
"Soten Kisshun, I reject."
Grimmjow held up Grace, washing her a little roughly.
"Why are you manhandling Grace?"
Grimmjow said nothing, putting Grace on Lilith's chest. "Are you sure she also isn't mine?"
Lilith looked over Grace who was in hollow form. "I'm sure. One hundred percent." Lilith gently opened an eyelid. "Welcome, Grace Ayasegawa Suzuran." The small hollow let out a tiny cry. "Shiore, this one is for you." Lilith reached back, touching her birthmark. "Chikyu No. Sakura no Shi."
Lilith was still holding Grace as she transformed. Completing her transformation, Shiore began to heal Lilith's body from The inside out.
Shiore looked down at Grace. "It's okay. You're safe now. I promise. You and your sister are both safe." Shiore cuddled Grace close to her chest, allowing her to latch. "Ulquiorra, hand me Delilah."
Shiore reached out, gently taking Delilah in her arm, cuddling her to her free breast, now feeding both.
"Ichimaru, Lilith is sorry that you have to see all this. But she's thankful you are here. She's completely trusting of you."
"May I hold one?" Ichimaru quietly asked
"No." Shiore response was quick making Grimmjow snicker. "Grimmjow. Shut up. Thank you for helping. Ulquiorra, one of you are free to go. One of you stays." She looked directly at Grimmjow.
Grace slowly came out of transformation, opening her eyes. They were purple like Yumichika's. The little hair she had was black with a slight purple twinge.
Shiore surrendered herself to Lilith after Grace became more normal looking.
Lilith looked up, exhausted, but smirking at Grimmjow. "We did good. They're going to break hearts…and faces." She grinned and laughed lightly.
"But they're going to do both with elegance, just like their mom." Gin chimed in from behind her.
Lilith slowly leaned forward. "Gin, take Delilah. She's asleep. And be careful with her or I will elegantly break all the bones in your body." Lilith slightly turned her body to Gin allowing him to take Delilah.
"Ulquiorra, come take Grace. Now." Lilith's eyes focused on the doorway. Ulquiorra slowly took Grace from her arms, standing next to Gin.
"Grimmjow, stand beside me."
Grimmjow slowly walked over.
"A bit faster."
Grimmjow looked at her awkwardly, but still moving faster.
"Chikyu no. Tsurino Ruto." She pointed her finger to the doorway. "Byakura!"
"BITCH!" Nnoitra yelled from the other side of the wall.
"Oh? Chikyu no. Sakura no Shi. Cero!" Her transformation was almost instantaneous. Her cero shot from her palm creating a hole in the wall, blasting Nnoitra backwards. "Sai." She lifted her two fingers successfully binding Nnoitra.
"Ulquiorra. Your promise?"
"I'm holding my niece. I can't stop you. Also, I don't think I want to stop you in this form."
Shiore walked to the bedroom, staring at Nnoitra. Striding up to him she put her fingertips to his abdomen. "Piasu." She firmly spoke, her fingertips becoming sharp, penetrating him.
"Who the fuck are you?" Nnoitra glared
"Hoippu." She dragged her nails downwards through his body creating long gashes.
"Argh!" Nnoitra yelled out. "Who the fuck?"
Shiore took her tips out of his body, trailing her fingers further down to his member. Gripping tightly, "Kurrashu!" She snarled.
"Aaahhhh god damnit Grimmjow! Help me!"
Grimmjow laughed, "Lily, Shiore…You've effectively neutered him. You can stop."
"Make me." Shiore took her hand off of him, placing it on his chest over where his heart should be. "Are you ready to die, Nnoitra?"
"You can't kill me. You're weak and inferior to me."
"Shoirema-" Grimmjow quickly grabbed Shiore, stopping her before she could kill Nnoitra.
"That's enough. You can stop now."
"ULQUIORRA! NOT FAIR!" She yelled back to the bathroom. Shiore allowed her transformation back to her host. "Nnoitra, you will not come near me, Orihime, Delilah, or Grace. We four are off limits. If I find you near anyone of us again, I really will kill you. And nobody will stop me… Because I will kill them too." She cut her eyes to Grimmjow.
"Orihime, come out here and heal Nnoitra."
"No." He heard from the bathroom.
"Grimmjow, he raped her too." Lilith stared at Nnoitra. "She has no reason to heal that bastard. He deserves to die. And he will."
Grimmjow looked at Lilith in disbelief. Looking over at Nnoitra, he wore a grin on his face. "Oh you fucking pervert. Was Lilith not enough that you had to fuck the human too?" Grimmjow punched Nnoitra in the face, a slight cero formed, blasting with the impact. "Fuck…Orihime, heal his face, that's it."
Orihime peeked from around the corner. "Soten Kisshun, I reject." She said with a look of hatred.
"Lilith, go check on your daughters." Grimmjow didn't take his eyes off Nnoitra.
"Thank you, Grimmjow." Lilith touched his arm gently, passing him.
Walking into the bathroom Lilith saw both Gin and Ulquiorra sitting in the shower, holding the girls, swaddled in towels. Lilith stood at the door way, smiling.
"See, Orihime. Didn't I tell you? And now I know he's also good with kids." Lilith whispered. "There's a lot to admire about him."
Ulquiorra and Gin both looked up. "I sure hope you say nice things about me too." Gin joked with her.
"She does." Grimmjow said from behind her, trailing his hands around her waist, holding his body to hers.
"Aren't they beautiful?" Lilith breathed softly
"Well, I mean, I'm not really into guys. But I don't think beautiful is the word we'd choose to describe another dude."
Lilith stifled a laugh
"I mean unless you're talking about Ulquiorra. I mean, have you seen his face? Isn't he gorgeous?" Gin chimed in
Lilith covered her mouth, trying to hold in her laughter.
Ulquiorra joined the banter, "Me? Have you seen Grimmjow? Mister Sexta Espada? He puts the Sex in Sexta. He's sexy and he knows it."
Lilith began to chuckle
"No. Gin over there. He's the real ladies man." Grimmjow grinned widely.
Lilith snorted letting out a burst of laughter, waking Delilah and Grace.
"I can be a ladies man…" Gin trailed off
"Oh my god. You guys… Really?" Lilith held her sides, laughing hard. "Gin is not a ladies man. If anything that would be Szayel. What with his pink hair and flamboyant and cocky personality. Who wouldn't want that?"
Everyone stared at Lilith, suddenly breaking into laughter. The girls began to cry louder.
"Guys, shut up for like two minutes, and hold them to your chest."
Ulquiorra and Gin both gave a quizzical look but followed her instructions. The girls quieted down and fell back asleep.
Lilith walked over to Ulquiorra and Gin, standing in front of them. "You have two options. Either you can stay here and keep holding the girls, which by the way, you two look natural doing. Or option two, hand me my girls So I can go to sleep on the bed. I'm exhausted. And if you choose option two, one of you must walk Orihime back to her room. Nnoitra won't be happy with either of us at the moment."
Gin leaned forward, holding out Delilah like a sacrifice. "You're going to be a great Mom, Lilith. Just trust your instincts." Lilith gently took Delilah, cuddling her in her left arm.
Gin slowly got off the floor, resting his back against the wall. "I'm soaking wet and need to change." He lurched forward gently giving Lilith a hug, completely surprising her. "I knew I liked you for a reason. From the first time I saved you from drowning in that damn tub." He squeezed lightly, then let go of her.
"Thank you, Uncle Gin. For saving me. For helping and guiding me. For watching out for me, and being a sarcastic little shit with me. You've always meant a lot to me, from the moment I had to protect Toshiro from that hollow you couldn't defeat." Lilith grinned.
"I can't help that it knocked me out the way. And you used Hitsugaya's Zanpakuto, I can't believe you did that to this day." He shook his head
"Ha. And that time shortly after Matsumoto thought I was trying to get the move on you." Both Lilith and Gin laughed lightly.
"Oh, how about when Aizen and Ikkaku collaborated and bought you your first dress and you beat the hell out of Ikkaku?"
"Or how about that time after that incident when Ikkaku said something insanely rude and I made Yumichika bring me out in front of him and I kicked his ass a little then?"
"Yeah, that was quite the show." Gin smiled softly
"You guys are assholes sometimes. Even if it's with the best intentions." Lilith shook her head. "Go get dressed, Gin. I don't want you getting sick… For my daughter's sake."
Gin kissed her forehead. "You did beautifully. Rest up and eat something." Gin began to walk out the bathroom. "And Lilith?"
"Yeah?" She turned around
"Kenpachi really is your father. I've known since you were two days old. Kenpachi thought you had died with your mom died in childbirth. And I'm glad you didn't die. You had something your mother didn't."
"And what's that?" Lilith asked seriously
"Support from her family." Gin looked at her, nodding his head.
"Thank you, Gin." Lilith shed a few tears, moved by his words.
Gin raised a hand, walking out the bathroom.
"Ulquiorra?" Lilith turned to him
"I think I'd like to hold Grace just a bit longer. If you don't mind." Ulquiorra looked up at Lilith who nodded her head with a smile.
"Grimmjow, would you mind taking Orihime back to her room please?"
"Sure."
"Orihime, thank you for saving my life. I owe you. Because of you, my daughters have a mother. You did a great job as well."
"You're welcome, Lily. Congratulations." Orihime beamed.
"I'll be back in a bit. Ulquiorra, watch this one. She's more than a badass now. She's the mother of my children. Orihime, come on, let's give Lily some peace."
Orihime and Grimmjow walked out the bathroom.
"Lilith, come sit down with me. Rest for a bit, because apparently you didn't listen to me the first time this morning."
"Hey, Ulquiorra…" Lilith held out a hand.
Ulquiorra held out his free hand, helping Lilith brace herself to sit down.
"Yes?"
"Do you remember the first day I was here and I fell into the forest of Menos, fractured my rib, and you guys were in the medical wing with me when I woke up?"
"Yes. I was super pissed."
"You said you would reprimand me and wouldn't go easy on me. You promised me a good time and didn't follow through."
"A good time, huh?" Ulquiorra's tone light, making Lilith smile
"You've had my back too. And I can't even begin to tell you how much I appreciate that."
"Oh…damn…here comes another one of your speeches." Ulquiorra rolled his eyes, placing his head against the wall.
"Ulquiorra Cifer! Stop surprising me with your lax attitude! It's scary!" Lilith giggled
"That's a nice sound." He said closing his eyes
"Ulquiorra?"
"Hmm?"
"You're intense and unreadable at times. And to most people, completely unreadable. You are observant, protective, cunning, smart, kind, fun…ish… You keep your word, you are serious most of the time, but once in a while you let loose and are sarcastic. That makes me feel more comfortable with you." Lilith scooted herself back against the wall next to Ulquiorra, resting her head on his shoulder. "You're…not beautiful… not…Not Gorgeous… But handsome, and compassionate. And weird."
Ulquiorra let out a sigh. "Shut up Lilith. Your exhaustion is getting the best of you."
"Ulquiorra?"
"…Yes, Lilith?" He said hesitantly
"If I had a choice and I knew you before I met Yumichika and Grimmjow… I think you're someone I could see myself with."
"Lilith. Shut up and hold your tongue. You're saying too much. That should have stayed in your head."
"In my heart."
"What is heart?"
"that feeling you obviously have holding my daughter. That feeling where you would do anything for her. You would protect her at all costs. It's a lot of things, Ulquiorra. And I hope one day you will be able to truly experience it."
Lilith closed her eyes, thinking of the long morning she'd already had. And the Substitute soul reaper was on his way to save Orihime. She made a vow before that she would protect her, and she planned to keep her word.
Lilith woke up to the sound of her girls crying. Opening her eyes, she could see someone tucked her into bed and her daughters were on one side of her, sort of tucked in. Their consistent kicking scooted the cover off. Lilith sat up getting as close to the wall as she could. She bent down picking up Grace then Delilah, making sure to feed both. Lilith braced her back against the wall, smiling down at the two.
"You both are so beautiful. I love you so much." She kissed the tops of their head. "I don't know what I did to deserve either of you, but I'm glad you are here. And I will give my life to protect yours."
"That's quite the sacrifice." Aizen's voice came from her bathroom door.
Lilith's grip on Delilah and Grace tightened. "What do you want, Aizen?" Lilith's tone short and to the point.
"I wanted to see the new additions to the family. This place is absolutely buzzing about their birth." Aizen walked into the room from the door way heading straight for Lilith.
"Stop. I don't want you near my daughters." Lilith's heart was beginning to race. Where was Ulquiorra or Grimmjow when she needed them?
"I'm not interested in your child. I'm interested in Grimmjow's child." Aizen still slowly walked over to her.
Lilith quickly leaned forward, letting the girls rest on the bed. Lilith put her body over theirs, hovering over them. "I do not give you permission to touch them." She snarled, her eyes turning golden
"I hear you castrated Nnoitra." He stopped a few feet from the bed.
Lilith's spiritual pressure was increasing quickly. "ULQUIORRA! GRIMMJOW!"
"They won't be hearing you seeing as they are getting ready for battle with the company we now seem to have in Las Noches."
Aizen reached out, having his hand smacked down by Harribel. "She told you not to touch. And these are my nieces. If she is ready to die for them, then so am I. But you will not be touching these girls right now. Please leave." Harribel stood between Lilith and Aizen
Aizen glared at her, retracting his hand and leaving. Harribel turned to Lilith
"Tier, why didn't you come?" Lilith still hovered over the infants protectively
"What do you mean? You never sent for me. I feel like you don't really want me to be here."
"I sent Grimmjow to get you, Ulquiorra, Gin and Orihime. He came back with all but you. When I began to ask, Delilah decided she wanted to come out and say hello."
"Mind if I meet them?"
Lilith paused slowly moving backwards on the bed. For the next few hours Espada and fracción were in and out of her room. Harribel stayed with her, watching over the girls.
Suddenly Lilith felt two distinct Spiritual pressures.
"Harribel, please find Aizen. Soul reapers have come." Lilith's eyes were wide and her heart was beginning to beat fast.
Harribel left, never returning. There was no sound around besides the breathing of Lilith, Delilah and Grace. Lilith had the idea to take the girls for a stroll around the place. She took the top sheet from the bed, wrapping it around herself, making small pockets for the girls to fit in as the slept. Both hugging her chest.
"Rukia and Renji are here." She whispered down. "That means you'll probably be meeting your grandfather." Lilith smiled. The thought of seeing any one them again was wonderful, but seeing Kenpachi made her happiest.
Making her way down the hall she made it to Orihime's room. Opening the door, she saw Orihime looking out the window, a sad expression on her face.
"I can feel them. But it saddens me that I can't see them."
"Are you sure you want to see them in battle?"
"I'm not sure." Orihime looked backwards. A quizzical look formed on her face.
"Come back here to the bed and hold Delilah and Grace?" it was more of an order than a question, but Orihime made her way to the bed, sitting down.
Lilith carefully took out Grace, setting her gently in Orihime's arm, followed by Delilah.
"Don't cry. If you cry and wake up my girls, I will be more than pissed at you." Lilith gave a slight glare.
"Understood." Orihime smiled down at the two girls who had turned their bodies towards hers for warmth.
"Orihime, put up a shield between the three of you and myself."
Orihime paused…." Santen Kesshun! I reject!"
"Thank you." Lilith faced the wall with the window. "Hado number fifty-four! Haien!" She slung her hand towards the wall creating an explosion in the wall, breaking through to the outside. "Hado number fifty-seven, Diachi Tenyo!" Lilith thrust her hands outwards, causing the rubble to fly out the new opening. "Perfect!"
Lilith turned around to see Orihime's mouth was opened.
"Stop staring, it's impolite."
"Ulquiorra is going to be so pissed when he sees that…"
"As much as I value Ulquiorra's opinion, I kind of don't care right now. You need hope. You need sunlight. You need-"
"To stop being corrupted by you." Ulquiorra's voice came from the door. He was holding a tray of food.
"I have never corrupted this child, Cifer!"
"Don't call me by my last name." He narrowed his eyes
"You're super sexy when you're angry with me." Lilith grinned. She knew she was hitting a nerve like she never had before. "Maybe I should call you Cifer when I'm pissed at you instead." Lilith laughed. "Keep your shield up, Hime."
"Woman, I did not come here to play games with you."
"Ulquiorra, I've never asked you. What's your Espada number? And where is it?" Lilith took a step towards Ulquiorra.
Ulquiorra said nothing. Keeping his eyes on Lilith, he walked in, putting the tray of food on Orihime's bed outside her shield.
"I am the fourth Espada. And when you can find it, you will see it. Til then quiet yourself."
Lilith flashed over to him, quickly being pushed aside by Ulquiorra.
"Great reflexes." Lilith had a smile on her face
"I'm not going to play games with you, Lilith. Stop now before I actually hold my word of reprimanding you."
Orihime's gasp was completely audible.
"It's okay Orihime, he won't actually do it." Lilith provoked Ulquiorra a little further
Orihime's face was a look between shock and horror. "But… aren't you afraid…"
"No. I'm not afraid of Ulquiorra. I've never been afraid of him. I'm more afraid of Grimmjow and Aizen honestly."
Ulquiorra's spiritual pressure had risen and both Lilith and Orihime could feel it.
"You should be. Orihime has the right idea. It's funny that you don't think I'd actually reprimand you. But since Orihime has the girls, I guess now is just as good a time as any."
Lilith took one step forward. "Bring it, demon."
Ulquiorra's spiritual spiked very high. "Fine."
Ulquiorra's movements were fast as he pushed Lilith against the wall, letting her body slam, then grabbing her throwing her to the door. Quickly he was on her, grabbing her, throwing her through the doorway into the hall outside. Lilith slumped to the floor, looking up at Ulquiorra as he made his way to her slowly.
"Do you like the pain? Do you like it when people are rough with you?" Ulquiorra grabbed her by her shoulder pulling her up. "You want me to do this to you?" His eyes were searching hers
"I don't know anything else here." She looked down
Ulquiorra took a step closer, Lilith's arm stretched out, touching his chest, as to stop him.
"You called me a demon. Let me show you what it means to be a demon." Ulquiorra pressed forward more, making her arm cave. Her hand still on his chest, just below his hollow hole.
"Ulquiorra…" Lilith's voice sounded pained
Ulquiorra grabbed her throat, picking her off the floor. Lilith immediately grabbed his jacket just before he threw her down the hall. Ulquiorra walked over to her, hands in pockets. His jacket torn open, showing his body and muscles clearly. Lilith began rolling over to face him, unaware of how close her really was. Ulquiorra pressed her ribs with his foot, harshly rolling her onto her back. As soon as she was on her back Ulquiorra straddled her, quickly grabbing her wrists, putting them above her head.
Lilith tried moving, failing. "Ulquiorra?"
Ulquiorra brought his face down to hers, inches from hers. "You've been left unchecked for far too long." Ulquiorra trailed his free hand down her jawline. His touched sent shivers down her spine.
"No, Ulquiorra." Lilith fought his grip as hard as she could. Her eyes were wide.
"I thought you weren't afraid of me?"
"I'm not afraid of you… I'm afraid of what you are capable of." She barely whispered to him.
Ulquiorra leaned in further, his nose almost touching hers. Her breathing hitched as she felt his bare chest against hers. Ulquiorra continued leaning in, slightly parting his lips, kissing her quickly.
"One more time. But close your eyes. It draws out the sensation." Lilith couldn't believe she had said that but Ulquiorra obliged quickly. He let go of her hands, cupping her face, kissing her hard.
When he final let up Lilith was panting and confused. Her body had Instantly responded to his touch.
"You should get the girls somewhere safe. And stop putting holes in the walls." He sighed heavily sitting up.
"Ulquiorra?" Lilith leaned up on her elbows.
"Yes?"
Lilith quickly pushed into his chest knocking him off, landing on his rear. Lilith was quick to straddle him like he had her. She rested one hand on his chest, opening his jacket. "Found it." She smirked. Ulquiorra's hands made their way to her hips, holding her where she was. Lilith bent down with out hesitation, returning the kiss Ulquiorra had given her but in a softer, more gentle way. Ulquiorra's grip had initially tightened, but now had softened when she let up.
"Woman, what are you doing to me?"
"Showing us both why you can't reprimand me. And also just returning the favor. You're welcome." She kissed his forehead before getting off of him.
"What makes you think I can't?"
"Because you're just confused about me as I am about you." Lilith walked back towards Orihime's room when she felt a spiritual pressure. "Kurosaki." She whispered
"I'll be back soon. I have something to handle."
Before Lilith could object Ulquiorra was gone.
Lilith walked into Orihime's room. She was standing by the open wall, staring out. Delilah and Grace were on the bed, quietly looking at each other, kicking their feet.
"Chad has been seriously hurt. And Ichigo is close."
"Orihime, Ulquiorra has gone after Kurosaki…"
"I know… I can feel it. They haven't begun to…never mind…" Orihime looked down. "Please win, Ichigo."
"Orihime, without using his hollow powers, Ichigo won't win against any of the Espada. But you need to be able to help him on. From what you tell me, he needs a purpose to fight and win."
"I can't do anything from here…" She trailed off sadly.
"No, but you can come with me and heal him." Grimmjow said from the doorway. "nice view you have there. I need that type of interior decorating in my room."
"Grimmjow, you can't just take Orihime. Besides, Ulquiorra will be back for her."
"Guess I better make it quick, huh?"
"Don't you normally?"
Grimmjow narrowed his eyes, not making a comment to Lilith. Grimmjow quickly grabbed Orihime, wrapping her wrists, then binding them with chain and putting her in a bag.
"You never brought those toys out with me." Lilith smirked.
"Lilith… Wait your turn." He grinned back darkly, running out the room with Orihime in a sack over his shoulder.
"Guess that means I can enjoy a few hours of freedom…" Lilith looked around Orihime's room. Looking out the clearing she calculated the distance from the ground up. She could do it.
Lilith picked up Delilah and Grace, putting them back inside the blanket, letting them latch and feed, covering them completely.
Lilith made her way over to the hole in the wall, bracing herself on the jagged edge.
"Where do you think you're going?" Ulquiorra asked from behind her, grabbing her arm, knowing he would startle her.
"Out. I'm going to take this time to enjoy my freedom because everyone is off somewhere fighting. Except you. You defeated Kurosaki."
"Where is Orihime?"
"Grimmjow took her to heal Ichigo."
"Damnit. Why didn't you stop him?"
"No. You're not blaming me on his habits of never listening."
"We will settle this later." Ulquiorra quickly turned, letting go of Lilith and leaving to go after Grimmjow.
Lilith took the time to jump out the hole before Ulquiorra could come back and stop her. The fall wasn't too long, just a few stories, in which she fell gracefully from.
"I couldn't do that again if I tried."
Lilith felt the spiritual pressure of more Soul reapers. Captain Kuchiki, Captain Zaraki, Captain Unohana. Renji and Rukia were here too. There really was hope after all.
Lilith knew Grimmjow was fighting Ichigo. She could see them not too far away. Orihime was standing up somewhere high protecting a small arrancar child.
Lilith wandered around the corner bumping into Kenpachi and Kuchiki.
"Captain?" Lilith froze.
Both Captains stopped, hearing her voice.
"Suzuran?" Kenpachi was the first to speak.
"Dad!" Lilith ran to Kenpachi, embracing him with one arm.
"You must have lost your mind, Suzuran. Let go of me. You have offenses against you." Kenpachi peeled Lilith off of himself.
"Suzuran, why are you wearing Ichimaru's Captain's jacket?" Kuchiki walked towards her, hand on Zanpakuto.
"If I may advise you, don't pull your Senbonzakura on me. I was pregnant and needed something to cover myself. I will protect my daughters til I die."
"Your what?" Kenpachi gave her a weird look.
"My daughters. I had them not too long ago. Mid morning I'd say. Would you like to meet your granddaughters?"
"I want to meet them!" Yachiru voice sounded from Kenpachi's shoulder. Both Delilah and Grace began to stir.
"I need you both to promise you won't draw your sword on My girls. And Kenpachi, Grace is Ayasegawa's child."
"And, Kenpachi, Suzuran is actually your daughter. That's why she was never allowed to join your division." Kuchiki said, blankly.
"You knew all this time? That my daughter was actually alive and never said anything to me?" Kenpachi balled his fists.
"So now that's covered. Would you like to meet Grace and Delilah Suzuran?" Lilith opened the blanket carefully taking out Grace. "This is Grace. She has Yumichika's eyes and hair." She gently placed Grace in Kenpachi's arm. "and this is Delilah." Lilith walked over to Kuchiki practically shoving Delilah in his arms.
"She has the mask of a Hollow." Delilah gripped his Shihakusho, cooing at him.
"How cute, she likes you, Captain."
"She definitely is your daughter." Yachiru was hovering over Kenpachi's shoulder staring down at Grace.
"Yachiru, you're an aunt. Meet your niece."
"Suzuran, get your clingy child out of my arms." Kuchiki was struggling with holding Delilah. "You never said this child belongs to Ayasegawa." Kuchiki paused. "Who is her father?"
"Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez. The sixth Espada. The guy Ichigo is currently fighting." Delilah let go of Kuchiki, clenching and unclenching her hands towards Lilith. Lilith gently took Delilah from Kuchiki, holding her to her chest, kissing her forehead.
"They were born at the same time?" Kenpachi frowned, looking at Grace.
"Yes. Delilah came first-"
"Was Delilah…. Were you willing…?" Kenpachi asked uncomfortably
"The answer to your question is no. She was conceived from rape. But that doesn't make me love her any less. She is my daughter. And they are your granddaughters. And Yachiru's nieces."
"Suzuran, that is an abomination." Kuchiki said from behind her.
"Neither of my children are abominations. They are small, defenseless children that were brought into this world, misunderstood and not loved by their fathers. Not understood by their families. No, Captain, they aren't abominations. I will die protecting them from Arrancars and Soul Reapers alike. Piasu!"
Lilith's Zanpakuto formed in her hand effortlessly. Lilith took her stance, still holding Delilah in her left arm.
"You would raise your Zanpakuto to me?"
"I would also use my Bankai. I am dead serious when it comes to my girls."
"Suzuran, when did you attain Bankai?"
"A few months after Aizen kidnapped me and left me here." Lilith took a seep breath, looking down and mumbling, "Right before he came here permanently and decided to rape me too." She looked at Kenpachi. "I'm not allowed to use my Bankai here."
"Told you Suzuran wasn't like that." Kenpachi smirked at Kuchiki. "Wait…he did what?"
Lilith looked over at Grace who was now fast asleep in Kenpachi's arm. "Dad, if you'd like to spend more time with Grace and Delilah, you're more than welcome to. Yachiru, come here and hold Delilah. I need to do something."
Yachiru happily jumped off Kenpachi, holding her arms out for Delilah. "She's super cute!" Yachiru squealed
Lilith put Delilah in Yachiru's arms. "Please, be careful with my daughter. I trust you."
"Lily!" Orihime yelled
"Hime! I TOLD YOU!" Lilith yelled back, smiling widely.
"Pet." She heard a sneer from behind her. Suddenly she was tossed into a rock, her body slamming hard.
"Argh! Nnoitra!" Lilith tried getting herself out of the crater her body had made.
"Lord Aizen no longer has use for you." Nnoitra raised his Zanpakuto
"LILY!" Orihime screamed, she was in the arms of Starrk.
"STARRK! NO!" He flashed and was suddenly gone.
"Let go of my daughter." Kenpachi's voice boomed from behind Nnoitra.
"Or what?" Nnoitra pressed the blade of his Zanpakuto to Lilith's throat.
"Scatter, Senbonzakura"
"Danku!"
"Idiot." Kenpachi quickly grabbed Lilith before Kuchiki's Senbonzakura could reach her and Nnoitra.
Kenpachi forced Kuchiki to hold Grace while he fought with Nnoitra.
"I have to go save Orihime."
"No, that's what I'm here for." Ichigo's voice came from beside her.
"You fought with your hollow… and kicked Grimmjow's ass… Thank you, Ichigo Kurosaki. He deserved it."
"Don't seem so surprised."
"We need to get Orihime. Then kill Aizen. Together. I have a plan if you don't mind working together. Visored to visored."
"Talk with me on the way to get Inoue?" Ichigo reached his hand out to Lilith.
Lilith took his hand, bolting from the ground. On the way up she discussed her plan with him, which he hesitant agreed to.
Lilith and Ichigo bolted from the floor into the grand hall to see Ulquiorra and Orihime
"Don't touch her!" Ichigo yelled
"II wasn't planning on it." Ulquiorra glanced over at Lilith
"They are with their grandfather. I promise they are safe with him."
"Kurosaki, you are a threat to Hueco Mundo and Lord Aizen. I have been left in charge to protect this place." Ulquiorra drew his Zanpakuto
"You finally think I'm a worthy opponent?"
"Shut it. Both of you." Lilith was standing next to Orihime. "Ulquiorra, I'm going to need your help. And I'm going to need Ichigo alive."
"Kurosaki and I have a score to finish."
"But the result of your score is death."
"precisely." Ulquiorra broke through the wall shooting upwards, Ichigo was quick to follow.
"Your boyfriend has a death wish. Ulquiorra will decimate him." Lilith looked out the smashed wall. "Why does he get to make holes in the wall but I don't? That's a double standard!"
Orihime laughed slightly. "Lily, can you take me where Ichigo went?"
"I can take you, Orihime!"
Lilith immediate put herself between Orihime and the newcomer. Uryu raised his bow.
"It's okay Lily." Orihime put a hand on Lilith's shoulder. "He's one of my friends. Uryu Ishida. He's a Quincy. And he's on our side."
"Take her quickly before Ichigo dies…again…but permanently this time." Lilith stepped aside, staring down Uryu. Putting down his bow, he quickly grabbed Orihime, going out the same opening.
Lilith felt a change in the spiritual pressure from above her. Ulquiorra must have changed into his resurrection. Lilith felt excited. She had to see this. Lilith quickly followed pursuit of Uryu and Orihime, bolting to the sky where there was now a hole.
Reaching the top, Ulquiorra was releasing his grand ray Cero. His form was weird. He really is a demon, a winged Demon.
Lilith looked up in time to see Ulquiorra punch a hole through Ichigo. Orihime screamed for Ichigo as he fell to the ground.
"Ulquiorra?!" Lilith watched him descend next to Ichigo's limp body. "Why?"
"This is where your hope dies. With him, with the other soul reapers. This is also where her hope dies." Ulquiorra looked down at a weeping Orihime
"You…broke her…you broke her spirit…twice in one day. Wasn't once enough?"
"Whose side are you on, Lilith?" Ulquiorra's expression darkened as he came closer to her.
"I am on the side that is against Aizen. I've always stated this. You know what side I am on. It hasn't changed." Lilith looked Ulquiorra in the eyes. "He was never my hope. I don't need him to defeat Aizen, but he would have been a plus with his hollow."
Suddenly there was a roar behind Ulquiorra. Ichigo's Hollow had now become a Vasto lorde.
Ulquiorra narrowed his eyes at Orihime before resuming his fight with Ichigo.
"Orihime, you look scared. And you should be. You just egged on the monster your boyfriend just became."
"I didn't want him to die." Orihime whispered. "I'm not scared… I'm terrified."
"Well…he isn't human at the moment, and kinda has the upper hand." Lilith began to walk towards the two
"Lily! DON'T!"
"Shush Orihime." Lilith looked ahead, "Heal the Quincy."
Lilith moved quicker. Ichigo's hollow was absolutely winning. Lilith ran towards Ichigo and Ulquiorra.
"NO! ULQUIORRA!" Ichigo charged a cero between his horns, Ulquiorra beneath him.
Lilith ran up, grabbing Ichigo's horn has as he blasted it, the cero partially hitting her ribs as her force broke his horn.
"Damnit Cifer! I need you!" Lilith yelled, smashing the hilt of her Zanpakuto into Ichigo's jaw, smashing his hollow mask.
Ichigo took a step back, looking at Lilith who had just fell to the ground, and Uryu who had Ichigo's sword through him.
"Did I do this?" He looked in disbelief.
Ulquiorra quickly leaned over Lilith. "See this is why I can't reprimand you. You're always doing something stupid and getting in harms way…Why did you save me?"
"Because my heart is with you and I wasn't ready to lose you."
"Heart?" He recited slowly. "Orihime, please also heal Lilith before she dies. She's going to do great things." Ulquiorra picked up Lilith, flying her over to Orihime.
"Ichigo. Captain Unohana is below us. Find her, get her to heal you. Go ahead of me. Spread the word when you get there?"
"I will. I promise." Ichigo quickly sped off, falling out of the hole leaving Orihime, Uryu, Ulquiorra and Lilith alone.
"I will eventually reprimand you if you stay here. As will Grimmjow-"
"Shit! Grimmjow! Ichigo defeated him…Ulquiorra could you please do a semi rescue and find a way to get him to his room? This place is uncharted. Captain Kurotsuchi will be here to try and collect specimens. That's something you don't want."
"What about the girls?"
"Also where you come in with my father. I'll explain that too when I can get healed." Lilith laid her head down on the floor, the entire space seemed to be spinning.
Lilith woke up, finding herself alone above Hueco Mundo. "Shit!" She yelled out, quickly getting up and stumbling from the head rush, falling face first into the ground.
"Are you really going to kill Lord Aizen?" Ulquiorra's voice came from on top of one of the broken cylinders.
"I have every intent on killing that bastard, even if it's the last thing I do." Lilith struggled, picking herself off the ground
Ulquiorra jumped down off the structure, his arms bowed into him. "Then feed your girls and say goodbye to them." Ulquiorra approached Lilith, both girls in his arms. They were fast asleep.
Lilith looked at Ulquiorra in a weird way. "They really, really like you." Lilith smiled and laughed out loud.
"Why is that funny?" Ulquiorra was very serious
"No…um. I'm imagining you as a father. It, for some reason, makes me happy inside." Lilith stifled another laugh. "But seeing they're already attached to you; I'd be surprised if they don't call you Daddy instead of Grimmjow or Yumichika." Lilith let out a sigh. "I have to face them." Lilith took her daughters from Ulquiorra, holding them to her chest. "And I have to do whatever it takes to keep these girls safe."
"But who will keep you safe?"
"You will. And even if it's only for the reason that my daughters need me right now."
"I don't understand your trust in me. I don't understand why you didn't just let me die. This would have been over for you."
"Cifer, this will never be over for me as long as my girls are alive. I face judgement from the people I'm getting ready to save."
"Then why protect them?"
"Because it's my duty. And less people will die. I just saved you from death. That's one less person that had to die because of Aizen."
"I'm not a person anymore."
"I don't have time to sort this out with you, Ulquiorra. I'm on a mission. I fully intend to survive and see my daughters grow up. I'm not saying good bye to them. Or to you."
"Very well then, stubborn child. Let's go." Ulquiorra put his arms around Lilith picking her up as to carry her using his sonido he raced from the ceiling to the ground below them to Kenpachi.
"Captain, I don't have time to explain, please come with us. Hold the girls? Ulquiorra, open a garaganta. I have souls to save."
"I don't think you should go." Kenpachi began
"With all due respect, Captain, I don't care about your opinion on this. This hell we are all experiencing is Aizen's fault. These souls that are dying are his fault. I need to stop him from making more people die, even though it's not at his own hand. I would sacrifice my life if it meant that no one else has to die."
"She's a difficult young lady, isn't she?" Kenpachi spoke sideways to Ulquiorra
"I can only imagine where she gets it from." Ulquiorra looked up at Kenpachi
"What are you trying to say?" Kenpachi faced Ulquiorra
"That if you are her father, surely she must have inherited part of your personality."
"Well she didn't inherit the love of fighting."
"Are you sure about that? She's a strong fighter. In many ways."
"Guys-"
"Though she partially inherited my eyes, and her mothers. My eyes show through her when she's mad."
"Kenpachi!"
"She really is stubborn though. And doesn't listen very well."
"Ulquiorra!"
"Yeah, she's always been one to basically do her own thing. But she also has a huge heart."
"GUYS!" Lilith shouted. Turning both heads towards her. "We don't have time for this. Kenpachi, take Delilah. Ulquiorra, take Grace and open the Garaganta."
"But I-"
"Damnit Ulquiorra, I swear…Just open the damn Garaganta so I can end this once and for all! Please!"
Ulquiorra took a moment to stare and scowl at Lilith before listening to her.
"We'll discuss the plan along the way. Let's go guys!"
"My subordinate's going to catch hell. Kenpachi, if you don't reprimand her for this, I will. Come on." Kuchiki was beside them.
"Actually, I'll be reprimanding her. I owe her twice." Ulquiorra interrupted as they were running down the reishi path together
"No one is calling dibs on reprimanding me. The slate will be wiped clean when I get rid of Aizen."
"Suzuran, you don't have the capabilities of even a Captain. You are no match for Aizen." Kuchiki said from behind her
Lilith stopped in her tracks, turning towards the three men running behind her. "You three and everyone else needs to stop underestimating me. You guys think I'm some fragile little flower that can't do anything by herself. I wish for once you would all have some faith in me. Believe in me. Be on my side. But if you aren't going to be with me, then step aside so I can finish my mission."
No one spoke, taken aback.
Kuchiki stepped forward. "I am on your side, Suzuran. I will stand by your side. Tell me what you need and I will help you."
"Thank you, Captain. That means the world to me. Let's go, Men. And little sleeping angels." She said softly, looking at her daughters in the arms of Ulquiorra and Kenpachi.
Lilith began running again, leading the two Captains and Espada to the other side. They finally reached the end, where Ulquiorra opened the Garaganta, exposing the battle that was happening. Lilith paused looking at the all the different battles, finally spotting Aizen, who was in a ring of dire with Ichimaru and Tosen.
"You three know the plan? Captain, please pass the word along, as far as you can."
"You'd make a decent third seat or Lieutenant. I will see you soon, Suzuran." Kuchiki used his flash step, leaving Lilith with Ulquiorra and Kenpachi.
"Are you two ready?" Lilith asked nervously
Ulquiorra stepped towards Lilith, stretching out his hand, touching her cheek. "the question is, are you ready. Are you ready to give your life, to sacrifice yourself?"
Lilith held his hand to her face. "Yes." She spoke as she shed a tear. Lilith leaned in kissing Grace's head followed by Ulquiorra's cheek. Moving towards Kenpachi she kissed Delilah's forehead and hugged Kenpachi.
"This isn't good bye. Remember?" Ulquiorra spoke softly.
"Yes." She said sadly. "Look out for my girls. I love them with my entire being., and I expect no less from the both of you." Lilith quickly jumped out of the hole as Aizen broke the barrier that head captain Yamamoto had set up around the three ex captains.
"Suzuran? What a pleasant surprise." Aizen barely turned his head to Lilith
"If you can hear me and are against Aizen and have heard my plan, Please, Take your places." Lilith called out loudly. "The blood shed ends here and now. Everybody stop fighting. Step back and join forces."
"Suzuran, just what do you think you're doing?" Aizen narrowed his eyes, his voice still smooth and cool
"Finishing this once and for all, Sosuke. This unreasonable bloodshed ends here. Piasu!"
Aizen rolled his eyes, running his hands through his hair. "I guess I can finish what I started those years ago. I can finally kill you, then your daughters."
"Her what?" Yumichika asked from behind Lilith
"Ulquiorra, come out here." Aizen looked behind Lilith as a garaganta opened
"No…" Lilith whispered horrified as Ulquiorra walked past her holding Grace. "Ulquiorra, please, you promised me." Tears filled her eyes
"And I can't believe you trusted him. He has always been on my side, Lilith. Ulquiorra, pass me the child."
Ulquiorra held out Grace, handing her to Aizen, who carefully took her into his right arm, cradling her. "Ayasegawa, this is your daughter, Grace Ayasegawa Suzuran. And this," Aizen put his hand against her chest, "is the end for her." Aizen plunged his hand into Grace's chest, crushing her heart, killing the child.
"NOOOOO!" Lilith screamed, releasing spiritual energy. "Sakura No Shi! BANKAI!"
"Hmm, so finally you release it." Aizen dropped the dead infant, letting Grace fall from the sky.
"I hate you. I have always disliked you, but now I truly hate you. You killed my child! She was innocent! Why her?" Lilith took her stance as the Arrancar and Soul Reapers took place around Lilith and Aizen.
"I told you. I', interested in Grimmjow's child. Not yours."
"They are both my children!" Lilith charged, running to Aizen, missing as he used his flash step to step aside, letting his elbow swing backwards into her skull, forcing her downwards.
"Delilah is a pure specimen for me to use."
"You will never lay a hand on Delilah!" She snarled, picking herself up charging Aizen again.
Aizen stood still this time, grabbing Lilith by the throat as she came near, squeezing, holding her in the air. Aizen turned her to face everyone.
"Nnggh!"
"You should have never been born, you shouldn't have lived when I tried to kill you. You should have died giving birth, just like your mother. But now, your time has come, flower." He whispered in her ear.
"Let go of her." Ichigo said from behind Aizen,
"No!" Aizen fiercely said, trusting his Zanpakuto through Lilith's chest
"AGH!" Lilith yelled out, turning her Zanpakuto around she shoved her sword into Aizen. "Kurrashu!" She dug her blade deeper into his body.
"AAHH!" Aizen yelled out in pain, his body caving in on itself
"Ichigo, Now!"
"Getsuga-Tensho!" Ichigo yelled, swinging his sword, the blow finishing Aizen. The hogyoku fell from the ashes
Lilith began to fall from the sky, Aizen's Zanpakuto still buried in her chest. Ulquiorra quickly caught her
"Shioremasu!" Lilith used the rest of her strength against Ulquiorra's arms, forcing his to drop her. His arms quickly turned to ashes in the wind. "I can no longer trust you. You gave my child willingly to that monster." Lilith closed her eyes as she fell father, her world turning black.
"What do we do with the Hogyoku now?" Toshiro asked
"We seal it away." Head captain Yamamoto said
"No." Lilith's weak voice sounded
"Suzuran?" Ukitake's voice came from beside her
"I have an idea that would be more beneficial. Allow me to use my Bankai and crush the Hogyoku or allow Orihime Inoue to reverse it and destroy it that way. At that point it will not be something that could ever be used against the soul society ever again, or for somebody else's selfish purposes."
Silence fell in the room.
"I agree." Kenpachi said.
Lilith opened her eyes, seeing she was in the fourth division Healing room. The captains had surrounded her bed, their lieutenants behind them.
"I also agree." Captain Kuchiki joined in
"I third the motion." Captain Ukitake joined in
"Fourth." Captain Kyoraku
"Fifth." Captain Hitsugaya
"Sixth." Captain Unohana
"Seventh." Komamura
"Well, that's all but three of us that are Captains that agree with Kuchiki's subordinate. Suzuran, you will attain Bankai and rid the Seireitei of the Hogyoku."
"Yes, Head Captain." Lilith closed her eyes again, rolling over in her bed, clenching her pillow, tears rolling out of her eyes
"Suzuran, what's the matter?" Captain Hitsugaya gently touched her back
"Aizen killed my daughter. He almost killed me. And now I don't even know where Delilah is. I don't know if she's safe."
"She's with her father." The head Captain said walking up to the foot of the bed. "I don't know what happened and where you stand, Suzuran, but we thank you for taking down Aizen. We owe you for saving countless lives. You will not be executed, as we had originally planned."
"I'm already dying. Aizen took part of me before I killed him." Lilith clenched her fist into balls.
"Lily?" Yumichika's voice came from behind everyone. "I have a surprise for you."
Everyone parted a way for Yumichika to come through. He was holding something in his arms.
The small bundle started to squirm the closer it came towards Lilith.
"Yumichika?" Lilith's voice confused
The bundle began to kick, throwing the blankets off.
"I think our daughter would like to see her mother." He said softly, coming around the side of the bed, sitting next to Lilith's balled up body.
"Delilah?" Lilith looked up, tears still in her eyes.
"No, Grace." Yumichika brought the child down for Lilith to see.
"No way!" Lilith began to sob, quickly sitting up throwing her arms around Yumichika.
"She really is quite beautiful, Lilith. You did a great job." Yumichika kissed her cheek lightly.
Lilith leaned back, taking a look at Yumichika and Grace. "I can't believe she's alive."
"Guys, let's leave them be for a few." Kenpachi ushered everyone out.
"I'll also leave Grace with you. She needs to eat. I've been using my energy to subdue her until now. But I don't want her to die…again."
"Don't leave me, Michika. Please. Not when I finally get to see you. I can't believe this is real. I was beginning to lose all hope. I began to not care about being rescued, as long as Orihime was safe. I came to terms with the fate that I'd never be able to see you again. Please don't leave. It'll break me. Please." Lilith begged him, holding his arm.
Yumichika sighed, crawling in the bed with her. He sat with his back against the headboard, letting Lilith take grace so she could rest in Yumichika's arms. Lilith brought Grace to her chest, feeding the child, leaning her head back so she could hear Yumichika's heartbeat.
"Lily?" Orihime's voice came from inside the room
"Mmh?"
"There are three of us here to see you. May we come in?"
Lilith felt Yumichika tense, making Lilith open her eyes.
Lilith walked towards the bed slowly, Ulquiorra walked behind her.
"Cifer." Lilith hissed "How are you allowed in the Seireitei?"
Ulquiorra said nothing
"Cifer, where Is Delilah?"
Ulquiorra opened his arms, exposing the sleeping child that was clutching his shirt.
"She's really attached to him." Yumichika whispered down at Lilith
"Lily, I-"
"Ulquiorra, I am livid with you. Please, hand me my daughter ad get out. I don't care where you go or what you do. I just want you to get out."
Ulquiorra slowly walked over to Lilith, gently removing his shirt from Delilah's hands. Delilah let out a small protest. "Shh, Delilah, it's time to see your mom. She needs you as you need her." He looked down at her softly. Delilah gave another short complaint. "No, no talking back. That isn't nice." Delilah looked up at him with sad eyes. "You're going to be okay. I promise. I'm not leaving you." He gave her a light kiss as he handed her to Lilith.
Ulquiorra gently placed Delilah in Lilith's arms, brushing her skin as he set the baby down, Lilith's eyes widened and her breath slightly hitched. Even Yumichika's touch hadn't made her respond that way.
"Thank you, Ulquiorra. Thank you, Orihime, for saving my daughter. You are the only one that could have saved her. I owe you."
"No, you saved me, and kept me alive. You kept my hope going the entire time I was in Hueco Mundo. You even made sure I was okay and saved Ichigo and Ulquiorra. So, thank you."
"Told you that you talked too much, Woman." Ulquiorra scoffed, walking out of the room.
Yumichika looked down, his head cocked.
"He's talking about the speeches I gave Orihime about keeping her hope alive and stuff. And now, my hope is rekindled as well, it just isn't a full flame."
"Lilith, how…why is Grace a visored? And what does that make Delilah?"
Orihime slowly walked backwards bumping into a wall, and running out the door.
Lilith took a few minutes explain to him all that she knew, from Aizen trying to kill her, to Shiore, to Grimmjow being Delilah's father, not Ulquiorra.
"huh, Delilah treats Ulquiorra like he is her father. She sure clings to him. And both the girls seem to like Kenpachi."
"That would make sense. He is their grandfather. Although have you seen Captain Kuchiki hold one of them?" Lilith stifled a laugh. "It's quite hilarious."
"Lilith, you're safe for now. Try to sleep. Ulquiorra and I will take turns watching out for you and the girls." Yumichika kissed Lilith on the head slipping out of the bed.
"Yumichika, I don't want you to leave me. I feel like if you leave I'm going to fall apart. I'm not ready to fall apart."
Ulquiorra walked in. "Yumichika, I will watch over her and the girls, besides I have to talk to Lilith."
"Very well." Yumichika walked out the room. Lilith's mouth fell open.
"IS IT THAT EASY FOR YOU TO WALK AWAY?!" Lilith yelled at Yumichika who paused, barely turning his head, then continued walking
"Lilith, it's been a long two days. You've given birth, defeated Aizen, and been pardoned as a soul reaper for your offenses. Please, try to rest. You've been through enough. He will come back."
"But what about Gin and Tosen? What about the rest of the Espada? Are they okay?"
"Grimmjow is fine."
"I didn't ask about Grimmjow."
"You didn't have to. He's recovered. And still an asshole as you would say. The Espada are in your debt, Lilith. We understand what you did made a ripple effect. You saved us from a most certain death, you saved us from Aizen. What you did, your sacrifice, wasn't easy, we know this. We are forever on your side, Lilith."
"Ulquiorra, although I'm still pissed at you, I don't want to be alone. And I can't believe I'm asking you, but will you stay with me? Here?" she patted a spot on the bed. Ulquiorra climbed in the bed, laying down on his side, taking Grace and Delilah putting them both in between himself and Lilith. Lilith moved her body closer to Ulquiorra's making a tight opening, safely keeping the girls between them. Lilith reached out across from her, taking Ulquiorra's hand in hers. "Thank you, Ulquiorra." Lilith closed her eyes, drifting off to sleep.
