DISCLAIMER - see chapter one
Orihime woke up with a start as the early morning sun shone through the kitchen window. She had been dreaming about Hueco Mundo again, about being in her cell, only this time when Ulquiorra had come in he hadn't tormented her. The worrying thing was what he had done, what she had allowed him to do. She could still feel the touch of his hand and the warmth of his skin on hers as she sat up.
She blushed at the thought of what had happened in her dream. Until now she had only ever had those dreams and thoughts about Ichigo, so why had all that changed? When she imagined Ichigo now, why did his eyes always turn from his warm hazel to a deep shade of green as she got closer? And why did his short orange hair lengthen and deepen to ebony? Why did he completely change to look like Ulquiorra when she took a second glance?
Thinking of Ulquiorra she glanced at the futon beside her, turning to it fully when she realised that her charge was gone. He hasn't left has he? She wondered fearfully, looking around the living room in the hopes of finding him, however he was nowhere in sight. She quickly got to her feet and hurried to the bathroom, noticing the closed door with a glimmer of hope.
"Ulquiorra?" She asked in a quiet voice as she knocked lightly on the wood, not wanting to wake Tatsuki. Not receiving an answer Orihime took a deep breath and slid the door open sideways, her eyes tightly closed as she stepped inside, just in case Ulquiorra was in an embarrassing situation. "Sorry, to come in like this but…" Orihime trailed off, daring to inch one of her eyes open to look around.
On her eye level there was no one, which left her puzzled until she looked down, gasping in shock as she found Ulquiorra lying unconscious on the floor. At least he woke up for a while…She reflected as she knelt at his side and put a hand to his forehead, feeling his fever still raging. She sighed as she shook him, trying to pull him into a more wakeful state, which she managed to her delight.
Ulquiorra's brow furrowed slightly and he made the cutest moan of protest she had ever heard as he turned over onto his back to get away from her pestering hand. With a smile and a quiet giggle Orihime shook his shoulder again, pausing as she noticed some vague red marks down his cheeks that looked as if someone had scratched him. As she watched the marks quickly healed and vanished, her hand gently reaching out to touch the soft skin of his cheek.
At her light touch Ulquiorra's green eyes snapped open, making the redhead jerk back in surprise, her grey eyes looking into his tired orbs. They said nothing for a few moments, both too surprised to say anything. Ulquiorra slowly took in his surroundings and remembered his earlier collapse with a slight flush of embarrassment, noticing the way Orihime smiled softly at the red in his cheeks,
"Gomen, it seems I'm causing you a lot of trouble." The Espada apologised, giving her a weak smile as he looked up at her. Orihime smiled and shook her head, her knees protesting at the hard feel of the floor beneath them. Orihime reached out and gently helped Ulquiorra into a sitting position, blushing and pulling back quickly as she realised how close they were and memories of her dream slowly crept back into her mind,
"It's alright, it isn't your fault…Come on, let's go back to bed. I mean separately. That is to sleep. Ano…" Orihime said quickly, blushing at her embarrassing mistakes as she looked at Ulquiorra's puzzled expression. He wasn't sure what she was panicking about. He understood her meaning completely, he couldn't think of what else could be taken from her words that would cause her embarrassment. This must be another one of those…Human things.
Without a word of response Ulquiorra allowed Orihime to help him to his feet, which was more difficult than she had first imagined. Ulquiorra seemed to have little energy, probably from lack of food more than anything else, and even as he tried to stand his legs shook and gave out in objection. The Arrancar looked truly frustrated, as well as embarrassed and Orihime couldn't help feeling sorry for him as he snatched his hand away from her and glared at the floor,
"Don't worry, I understand you're not well…I know you're usually much stronger then this, so don't feel embarrassed, okay?" She said comfortingly as she crouched at his side and put a gentle hand on his shoulder. Ulquiorra glanced at her a little uncertainly before nodding his agreement, receiving one of Orihime's bright smiles in return. After a few moments Orihime stood and held a hand out to him, "Let's try this again." She said brightly, Ulquiorra nodding as he gave her his hand.
It took a few moments, but Ulquiorra made it to his feet this time, leaning heavily on the edge of the bathtub for support as he panted. Orihime pulled his arm over her shoulders and took most of his weight as she helped him back to the living room, where he fell back gratefully onto the futon with a sigh. He was disgusted at his own weakness as his eyes already began to close, his mind spiralling into unconsciousness quickly.
As his eyes closed Orihime knelt beside him with a relieved smile, glad that she had finally gotten him back to bed, and more than pleased that he had actually woken up for a while. With a sigh the redhead pulled the thick blanket over his sleeping form before settling down beside him and peering across at him as he slept, memories of her dream rising once more to bring a blush to her cheeks. She couldn't help wondering if his skin would feel as good in real life as it had in her dream.
"Gomenasai Oto-sama. It will not happen again." Himeyuri apologised as she knelt before her father, only Syaoran and Ulorran present. They had just returned from the real world, and right now the King's expression was unreadable. Over the past twelve years the only thing that had changed about his physical appearance was that his cheeks were a little more gaunt and there were a few more lines around his eyes. Otherwise he was the same proud man he had always been.
Himeyuri remained bowed on her knees below the steps leading up to her father's place, where he knelt on a cushion looking down at her. She didn't dare move until she was told, this would be part of her punishment; waiting for her father's decision on how to deal with her. He would probably be a little more lenient since no Hollow had appeared, so no one had been hurt by her 'ignorance' as he called it.
"Do you fully realise the trouble you have caused?" Her father's voice boomed through the empty hall, Ulorran's folded arms stiffening slightly at the sound. He wasn't afraid of the old man, far from it, the King was like a father to him, however the man commanded respect. This respect came from his actions and the way he carried himself rather than from his birthright. Ulorran had no time for those who thought they deserved respect purely because of their rank.
"Hai Oto-sama. Fourth Lieutenant Ulorran has made me well aware." Himeyuri replied, keeping her face towards the tatami mat she was kneeling on, which barely took away the discomfort of the marble floor from beneath her knees, still she didn't dare fidget. It would be disrespectful and unbecoming to do so. This discomfort was part of her punishment. She heard her father shift, but didn't dare look up as he moved towards her.
Ulorran watched from his place in front of the door beside Syaoran as the King got gracefully to his feet, his grey silk kimono billowing around him as he did so. He was both graceful and kingly as he seemed to glide down the long steps towards his daughter, whom Ulorran could see just barely tremble. He knew she was trying not to move, not wanting to stir her father's rage, but unfortunately it seemed he had already been stirred.
"Look at me." He ordered as he reached her and stood before her, looking down at her small redheaded figure. Himeyuri trembled slightly, hesitating a little too long for her father's liking as he grabbed her orange locks along with the clip and yanked her head up so that her scared grey eyes were looking into his angry brown orbs. "You will look at me when I order you to do so." He stated coldly, Himeyuri barely able to choke out a reply through the pain.
"H-hai Oto-sama!" Himeyuri cried in reply, trying to stop the tears welling in her eyes, biting her lip as she looked up at her father's furious face. Since she was kneeling with her back straight and her head tilted up to look at him the King released her, however Himeyuri's relief was short lived as he struck her hard across the same cheek as Ulorran. The difference was that her father used a lot more strength and knocked her a few feet from her previous kneeling position.
"You shame me woman. Take yourself out of my sight." The King ordered as he turned his back to her and walked up the steps to his seat once more. Ulorran didn't realise it until the King was moving that Syaoran was holding him back, the younger man's arms wrapped tightly around his waist. I don't even remember moving…Ulorran thought as he took three steps back to his original place, not missing Syaoran's prying glances.
"Hai Oto-sama." Himeyuri's voice replied, and Ulorran looked across the hall to see her give her father one final low bow on her knees before gracefully rising to her feet and walking towards Syaoran and Ulorran. As she approached Ulorran looked into her grey eyes, seeing them give him a look that told him she was close to tears. He wanted to be able to reach out for her and pull her into his arms, but all he could do was allow his fingers to brush the light silk of her kimono on the way by.
Himeyuri felt the gentle tug on her kimono as she passed and couldn't help the small smile that graced her features, a smile that Syaoran didn't miss. At her exit Syaoran and Ulorran turned to leave, both of them knowing that their part here was done. They had brought Himeyuri home, she was safe, and there was nothing else to report, however it seemed that the King was not finished.
"Lieutenant. I have not yet dismissed you." His voice rang out, both Ulorran and Syaoran pausing and turning back. Ulorran neatly stepped forward, his wings spreading out as he fell to one knee in a show of respect. The King enjoyed these little displays, revelling in the fact that the last winged man was his to command. Ulorran knew this better than anyone, however the sway he held over the King was worth the small displays of respect he gave. They were displays he wouldn't give if he didn't truly respect his king.
"My apologies your Majesty. I assumed we were finished." Ulorran reported in his usual formal manner, looking up at the King's light chuckle. The older man saw him looking up and motioned for him to rise and approach, the formalities over it seemed. Ulorran automatically relaxed and let his usual grin cross his features as he walked up and slumped to the steps casually, something he could only get away with in the empty hall when only Syaoran was present.
"You are always so formal, even in the presence of my son." The King said with a chuckle. He had known Ulorran far longer than Syaoran knew, though he hadn't always been as friendly with the older Shinigami. It was odd how Ulorran seemed to stay young while he chose to age, using as much of his power as possible to make that happen. He knew Ulorran had far more power than he, had even seen it used once or twice, but still the boy didn't age. He must truly have a high reiatsu level…
"It is only proper your Majesty. This is the only level of informality I will allow myself." Ulorran replied, his voice still as respectful as ever, even though he was still smiling and acting casually. Syaoran approached in a similarly casual manner and sat on a higher step than Ulorran as was customary for them. "What is it that you wish of me?" Ulorran asked a little more seriously, knowing that the King had called him back for more than just a casual chat.
"I have a favour to ask of you, Ulorran." The King began, noticing the way Ulorran sat up a little on the step and turned sideways to give the King his full attention, his green eyes fixed on the King, waiting for orders. "I wonder if you might train my daughter." The King said finally, both Ulorran and Syaoran looking at him in shock. It wasn't just the fact that he had just slapped his daughter across the room and treated her as nothing, that was just his way of showing his displeasure; The King doted on his daughter. Their surprise came from the fact that women didn't learn combat.
"You wish me to train your daughter? How so?" Ulorran asked, thinking that perhaps he wished Ulorran to teach her some other subject. It was well known that, though he may not act like it, Ulorran was well versed in almost every subject. Ulorran had even had a hand in teaching Syaoran, knowing little details that the Prince's tutors didn't, which had impressed the King to no end.
"The same as ever Ulorran. I am well aware that this is a strange request, however my daughter, being headstrong as she is, is likely to get herself in some form of trouble one day." The King began, Ulorran trying to keep his expression neutral at these words. You're not far off…He thought privately, "I would like her to be prepared for that day…Do you understand?" The King asked. It was clear that this meant a lot to the King, so how could Ulorran even think to refuse?
"Very well. When shall I begin instruction?" Ulorran asked as he nodded, the King giving him a proud smile. The King may have been younger, but he always treated Ulorran like his own son, and he couldn't help but feel pride at the way Ulorran took his duties so seriously. He was lucky that his son had taken up with Ulorran rather than one of the other Lieutenants. Not all of them were as dedicated to duty as Ulorran, which would have made him the perfect First Lieutenant, but the winged man always insisted that four was a better number. The King smiled at the loyalty he had for his men, refusing to abandon them for a higher rank.
"Tomorrow morning. I shall have someone inform her this evening." The King replied, Ulorran having a sly thought as he looked up at the King. There was no reason he could think of not to try, after all the king had just asked him to train her, so there was nothing odd about his request. Putting his worries aside Ulorran cleared his throat in a subtle request for attention, which the King gave, knowing the gesture all too well.
"I would like to inform her myself. If I am to train her then I wish to make it clear before we begin that she shall receive no mercy for being a noble or a female. Is this acceptable to you?" Ulorran asked, watching as the King mulled it over. It was true that Ulorran had never taken on a student that he hadn't hand picked himself, which was why it had been so great a favour to ask. With the men he chose Ulorran knew he could trust them because his instincts told him so, but Himeyuri wasn't his choice, therefore he was being asked to trust her with his life. What he asked in return was a small favour in comparison.
"What do you mean you will not go easy on her? She's my sister!" Syaoran stated in disbelief while the king thought over Ulorran's request, eyeing his son in amusement as he did so. His son, though kind hearted and strong willed, was quite naïve when it came to the ways of the world. This was which was another reason the King was grateful to Ulorran, who had taken Syaoran under his wing and taught him many things, including how naïve he truly was.
"When she is my student she is my student. I will treat her no differently to anyone else, and if his Majesty had expected otherwise he would have asked a different man to train her. He asked me specifically because he knew I would not coddle her." Ulorran explained offhandedly as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. Syaoran looked back and forth between his father and Ulorran somewhat disapprovingly, not liking the situation one bit. He couldn't believe Ulorran would beat a girl the way he beat his other trainees, though he had noticed he was careful with Yama's more delicate frame.
"You worry too much my son." The King said with a hint of warmth as he looked at his son. He didn't let Syaoran know, but he could feel his daughter's reiatsu, and it was powerful, perhaps more powerful than Syaoran's. He wasn't thinking of turning his daughter into a warrior, however if she knew how to use her power then she could at least defend herself. "Ulorran, you may go to my daughter." The King decided, watching Ulorran get to his knees and bow formally before getting to his feet and leaving.
Having never been to Himeyuri's rooms from the inside Ulorran had no choice but to wander the corridors aimlessly, at least until he found a window. Feeling for her reiatsu helped him along, he could feel her in the general direction he was heading, but that didn't help him navigate the complicated maze of seemingly identical marble corridors. The winged man could have sworn he passed the same vase five times before he finally decided to turn off into a different corridor.
It finally seemed his luck was rising as he passed a young woman dressed in a plain kimono, telling him she was a servant of the house. He paused to ask for directions and she gave them, wary as she was. He knew that she would go and check with the King, however this time he had permission to be within Himeyuri's domain. He followed the path he had been pointed to, travelling up a staircase to the next floor and along the hall, Himeyuri's reiatsu burning through the wall ahead.
"Who is it?" Himeyuri's voice asked lightly as he knocked on the door. It wasn't a knock that she recognised, too light to be her father, too heavy to be her brother, and too firm to be one of the timid servants that walked about her floors. Whoever it was she had to tidy her appearance before she bid them enter. She was a sorry state for a lady, tears still streaming down her cheeks, one of which was slightly red, and her hair was out of place from her father's rough behaviour.
"Fourth Lieutenant Ulorran. May I see you?" Ulorran asked in reply, smiling as he heard rushing footsteps inside. He could picture her clearly in his mind running to a mirror to check her appearance, delicately lifting a hair brush, wiping away her tears and brightening her expression as best she could. Then she would sit somewhere, perhaps at her desk, and bid him enter.
"Enter." Her voice sounded, Ulorran quietly impressed with her speed as he opened the door and looked inside, finding her sitting on a cushion at a low table. It was at this moment that he realised this wasn't her bedroom, but a small room attached to it, the door to her room standing open to the left. As he stepped inside and closed the door Himeyuri nodded to the cushion to the side of hers at the table, and Ulorran took it, kneeling down and looking across at her.
"Your father gave leave for me to come here to deliver a message." Ulorran replied to the curiosity in her gentle features. She hadn't thought that Ulorran would ever be allowed to come to her rooms through the doors inside. Without a word she nodded for him to continue, knowing it must be something important for her father to send Ulorran. "Your father wishes for you to train under me." Ulorran said simply, Himeyuri looking at him with something akin to incredulity.
"Women do not train in combat." Himeyuri said, confused as to why her father would make such a decision. No one had ever attacked Seireitei, not in her lifetime or her fathers anyway, and there were no potential threats that she knew of. Though thinking about it, her father didn't speak of the outside world, so perhaps they were close to a battle of some sort.
"I know, however your father wished for you to be prepared in case you decided to disappear again." Ulorran replied, trying not to make her feel too bad about her earlier disappearance and subsequent punishment. Himeyuri blushed a little as she forced a smile, feeling Ulorran take her hand beneath the table. She looked up at him, his green eyes full of warmth as he looked at her. "Is it likely that anyone will come here?" Ulorran asked quietly as he shifted his gaze to the closed door.
"No one may enter without permission." Himeyuri replied, Ulorran grinning mischievously at her words, a look Himeyuri had never seen up close. When she had seen him before he had always been in the grounds outside with her brother, or passing through a corridor. Now that look was directed at her, and her alone. It sent shivers running up and down her spine.
"So we are completely alone…" Ulorran observed with a purring edge to his voice as he got to his knees and crawled to her side, Himeyuri looking at him with a blush on her cheeks. Before this moment it had always been her making advances on him, never the other way around. She wasn't sure what the light feeling in the pit of her stomach was, but she knew she liked it.
"Hai." She breathed in reply, the prowling look in his deep green eyes stopping her from speaking clearly. She let out a small gasp as Ulorran leaned forward so that his face was buried in her long loose hair, her cheeks turning even redder as he inhaled deeply. She sat still as he nuzzled her, unsure exactly what she was supposed to do in this situation. Before it had all come naturally, but now she could barely move,
"You smell nice…" He whispered in her ear, the throaty tone of his voice sending a strange new feeling running through her. She watched like a hunted rabbit as Ulorran pulled back so that he could look at her, his smile both warm and comforting as he looked at her, his green eyes half lidded as he leaned forward. Himeyuri couldn't help her short breaths as he drew closer, her body feeling as if it couldn't get enough oxygen.
Suddenly the distance between them closed and Ulorran was kissing her, his lips brushing over hers softly, the pressure between them slowly building. Himeyuri's grey eyes slid shut as Ulorran continued to pressed a series of long chaste kisses to her lips, not intending to go any further than that for now. Feeling Himeyuri lean back a little Ulorran edged forward, one of his arms brushing over her waist to support his weight on the floor beside her, his chest almost brushing her sizable cleavage as he leaned over her.
Ulorran enjoyed their closeness, swiftly pulling Himeyuri to the floor with him as he grew uncomfortable on his knees. Laying beside her on the marble floor he slid an arm over her waist and caressed her lower back through her white cotton kimono, which she had changed into for comfort since her return to her rooms. As a reflex he lowered one of his wings over her while the other lay behind him across the floor, his feathers brushing her clothed legs.
As they kissed Himeyuri raised one of her hands and stroked her fingers through his hair, swearing that she heard him let out a purr as she hit a spot just above his ear. She stroked there again and felt his head shift into her touch slightly, a smile gracing her features even as they kissed. She then remembered another place that had affected him even more than the place on his scalp.
Ulorran had been enjoying the kiss, her lips pressed softly to his as their breaths mingled. Her hand had reached up and stroked him, sending a wave of pleasure through him as she hit a particularly sensitive area, and he couldn't help the purr that escaped the back of his throat. When she did it again he knew she was teasing him, and then she did something that knocked the wind out of him.
He wasn't sure why, but the area below his collarbone had always been especially sensitive to touch, and when she ran her fingers in circles over the area he found himself completely at her mercy. He pulled back from the kiss and let out a light moan, breathing deeply as she continued to torture him with her touch. He wasn't sure whether he wanted her to stop or not, but at the knock on the door she had to pull back.
"Who is it?" She asked politely as she sat up, watching as Ulorran got to his knees and elegantly lowered his wings to his back. While Ulorran settled into a polite yet casual positioned Himeyuri righted her kimono, flattened out any creases and patted her hair neatly into place. She settled on her knees where she had been at the start, to the side of Ulorran, who looked towards the closed door warily,
"Syaoran." Her brother's voice replied in surprise. Himeyuri never usually needed to ask who it was, she always knew his knock. This was one thing that told him something was happening, and he wasn't sure he wanted to know what. He had his suspicions, which only deepened as he opened the door to find them sitting so cosily together. He didn't like the slight flush of his sister's cheeks, or the slight red of her lips, which was mirrored on Ulorran's. "I came to see if you were feeling alright." Syaoran excused as he stepped forward, his deep brown orbs shifting to Ulorran as he got to his feet.
"I shall take my leave of you Princess. I shall be here tomorrow at the eighth hour. Please be ready to leave by then, and wear something appropriate." Ulorran instructed as he got to his feet. Himeyuri gave him a puzzled look, having no idea what would be appropriate for combat training. She had never taken part in combat and had never seen real combat, just a few small sparring sessions between Ulorran and Syaoran that she had been lucky enough to spy from one of the upstairs windows.
"Father has already ordered clothes to be made right away." Syaoran filled in as Ulorran looked thoughtful. It had never occurred to the winged man that Himeyuri wouldn't have any clothes appropriate. Women of noble birth wore long beautiful flowing kimonos all their lives like dressed up dolls. They never wore hakama; it was rare to see even the poor women wear them, they too usually wore kimonos, though of a simpler design and duller colours.
"Very well. Until tomorrow Princess. Syaoran." Ulorran said, bowing to Himeyuri and nodding less formally to Syaoran, which was as much respect as Syaoran was going to get until he was king and no longer Ulorran's subordinate. Syaoran watched Ulorran go with a suspicious heir, turning back to his sister just as she tore her gaze away from Ulorran's retreating back. She had been hoping he would glance back at her, but with Syaoran there she knew he couldn't risk it.
Ulquiorra opened his eyes slowly as he felt a gentle hand on his shoulder. As his eyes opened he found himself staring up at Orihime, who smiled brightly at his reaction time, which seemed to have increased since earlier that morning. Ulquiorra couldn't help but be impressed by the speed he was recovering. In only a few short hours he felt a lot stronger, which he assumed was due to the medicine.
"You look a lot better." Orihime confirmed as he slowly sat up, feeling Orihime give him a helping hand on his shoulder, but he also found he didn't need it, which surprised them both considering how weak he had been a few hours ago. "Here, drink this and I'll get you some food." Orihime said as she handed him a small glass bottle of amber liquid, which Ulquiorra swallowed, unable to help the shudder that followed. The medicine was so sweet and sickly that he grimaced, looking up at Orihime's laughter as she handed him a plate of toast with bean paste and a glass of milk.
"Only toast?" Tatsuki observed as she came out of the bedroom fully dressed in her uniform, her grey pleated skirt barely reaching mid-thigh like most of the girls. She had black sweatbands on her wrists and was already headed for the door to slip into her shoes, an additional bag waiting by the door for her.
"Hai, I didn't think it was a good idea to give him too much. His stomach might not keep it down." Orihime replied as she wandered over to the door to see Tatsuki off. The short haired girl had already slipped into her shoes, tapping the toes on the stone path outside before hurrying off, "Have a good training session!" Orihime called, waving as Tatsuki turned and held up a hand.
"What do you mean 'keep it down?'" Ulquiorra asked curiously as Orihime closed the door, still wearing her pink pyjamas. As she turned she bit back a laugh, watching Ulquiorra examining the bottom of the plate as it he expected to find something, though Orihime couldn't think what. He looked up with confused green orbs as he heard her cough to cover over her slight chuckle.
"When some people are ill or haven't been able to eat for a while they have trouble eating. When they eat the food they throw it up, or 'vomit,' so keeping your food down is another way of saying that you haven't been sick, ano vomited." Orihime replied, glad that she could explain little things like this to him. Being able to teach him things made her feel a little better about needing his help with her work all the time. Ulquiorra looked reluctantly at the toast, apparently not fond of the thought that he might throw it up again. "Don't worry, I'm sure you'll keep it down." Orihime assured with a hopeful tone.
Ulquiorra remained unconvinced, however the discomfort in his stomach had gone beyond the point of making strange noises and now just gave him an unpleasant turning feeling. He slowly raised the warm toast to his lips and took a small bite, not liking how dry it was, though the bean paste helped as the flavour made his mouth water slightly, making the toast easier to eat. Interesting…human taste-buds help to encourage saliva…
"It's a little dry I know, so drink the milk with it if you like. I thought milk would be better than water since you haven't really eaten and milk is really good for you." Orihime said as she noticed the slight look of discomfort on his face as he chewed, a look she got herself when she was trying to eat bland or very dry food. It was also the look Tatsuki gave her when she explained what she had made for lunch.
Orihime watched Ulquiorra sip the milk cautiously, apparently deciding he liked it as he look a larger gulp, almost forgetting the toast in his hand before going back to it. She couldn't help but think of a small child experiencing something for the first time. He had the same look of surprise and wonder mixed with a childish delight, and though he tried to keep the expression from his face he couldn't keep it from his eyes, which were more alive than she had seen them in days.
"You like milk Ulquiorra?" Orihime said questioningly as he finished the glass and looked at it with a hint of disappointment, turning his attention to the other piece of toast, which he was quick to devour. At Orihime's question he finished the food in his mouth and swallowed, holding the remainder of the toast away from his lips with a slightly thoughtful look,
"I suppose I do." He replied, watching as Orihime laughed and got to her feet, heading to the kitchen. While she was out of sight Ulquiorra finished his toast and put the plate on the table, not trusting himself enough to get up and take it to the kitchen. If he fell he didn't want to risk breaking something of Orihime's. The redhead soon reappeared, his glass refilled with the white substance.
"Here, drink this and then I think you should rest some more." Orihime instructed as she handed him the half pint glass, watching as he drank some of the milk. As he pulled back from the glass a drop of milk hovered at the rim and he quickly licked it away, doing the same to the rest of the area his lips had touched. A slight blush coloured Orihime's cheeks as she thought how cat-like he looked at that moment.
"Are you feeling alright Orihime?" Ulquiorra asked as he paused. He had been about to lap the glass again when he noticed Orihime's slightly dazed look and the pink colour of her cheeks, thinking guiltily that she may have caught his fever. At his words her cheeks reddened further as she realised he was looking at her. She was glad that he couldn't read thoughts, since hers had once again returned to the dream she'd had earlier, and it wasn't the glass she had imagined him lapping. What am I thinking? I must be such a shallow person!
"I'm fine! I was just thinking! About ninja's and explosions of pink light and then pow and bam!" Orihime babbled incoherently. Ulquiorra, unaccustomed to these outbursts, got to his knees and pressed a hand to Orihime's forehead, though he was unsure how she was supposed to feel. She didn't feel particularly hot, but she wasn't cool either, she was just warm. Is warm normal?
"I don't think you have a fever…" Ulquiorra said with a puzzled expression, Orihime blushing as she realised how close he was, and he was at her eyelevel for a change. She was used to have to look up or down at him, usually up, so she took in his appearance at this level too. There wasn't much difference, except it seemed his eyes were far more intense this close up than they had ever been before.
"I have to get ready for school!" Orihime excused quickly as she got to her feet, leaving a puzzled Ulquiorra to enjoy his milk while she rushed to the bathroom. The Espada didn't really dwell on her exit, after all it was true, she did need to get ready for school. This show of conscious thought could well mean that she had been telling the truth and didn't have a fever at all.
By the time Orihime came out of her room Ulquiorra had finished his milk and was settled down in the futon, the covers tucked cosily up to his chin as he lay on his side for a change, his body clearly curled up beneath the blanket. Orihime smiled as she walked over and crouched beside him, seeing that he was half asleep, though his eyes were partially open as he lay there.
"I'm going to school now. I've left some clothes out for you on my bed, and some fresh blankets for this futon. If you feel up to it feel free to use the bath and change the sheets. You'll feel a lot better." Orihime assured in a quiet and gentle voice as she stroked his head, her fingers lacing in his slightly greasy hair. The grease didn't bother her, it wasn't his fault after all, so it didn't seem as disgusting as it would have if he had just decided not to wash. Ulquiorra stiffened slightly and let out something akin to a purr as she unknowingly brushed across where the remains of his Hollow mask had been. I always wanted a cat…
"I will, arigato." Ulquiorra replied sleepily as she took her hand away, not wanting to tease him. She wasn't completely naïve, she knew about intimacy from watching television and talking to others. Without a doubt she had found one of Ulquiorra's 'sweet spots' and she wasn't going to tease him as others might. She knew she wouldn't like it if someone teased her, so it was only fair that she behave sensibly. However the sound Ulquiorra made and the slight look of pleasure that crossed his features almost made the temptation worth it.
"See you tonight then. Yoruichi-san will be by a little later." Orihime called as she slipped into her shoes, Ulquiorra nodding as she looked over at him. He held a hand up in farewell before he watched her hurry out the door, and only once he was sure she was gone did he get to his feet with a surprising amount of ease. His legs still dragged a little, but it was much easier to move around and he knew he wasn't about to collapse.
Firstly he went into the bathroom and turned the water on, and while it was running he quickly pulled the old sheets and covers off his futon and shook it out a little before replacing it on the floor and heading back to check on the water. He wasn't sure how much he needed, but the amount seemed reasonable so he quickly stripped off and climbed into the tub.
It felt strange to be mostly submerged in water, strange but quite nice at the same time, therapeutic almost. Ulquiorra wasted no time in washing himself, borrowing some of Orihime's bathing products since he didn't have his own. While he washed he noticed the differences between their washing things. Orihime used soap while he used gel, and her shampoo was a pink while his was either plain or a dark colour, and hers smelled much lighter, and had the strong hint of flowers.
Climbing out of the bath he wrapped himself in one of the fluffy white towels from her cupboard and dried himself off before heading to her bedroom, where a new set of his own clothes waiting for him. He knew Yoruichi had been there the day before, he had heard her voice in his brief moments of awakening, so he wasn't too surprised at finding them there. He quickly pulled on the fresh boxers and T-shirt before grabbing the fresh sheets and returning to the futon.
It took a while for him to get the sheets and covers right, having a little difficulty getting the duvet even inside its cover, finding it lumpy and half filled the first few tries. Once he had finally managed it he felt fatigued and curled up under the fresh smelling covers gratefully, reflecting as he closed his eyes that Orihime had been right. He may have been tired, but he did feel a lot better.
"Were you even trying to hit me?" Ulorran asked with a superior grin as he watched Himeyuri stumble past him. They were once again in his training area in the forest just outside Seireitei, where he was training Yama too, the boy standing to the side watching uncomfortably. He felt unworthy of being in Himeyuri's presence, and hated calling her by name even though Ulorran had ordered it.
The king had given his full permission for Ulorran to take Himeyuri anywhere he pleased for training purposes, trusting that Ulorran would protect her from danger and return her quickly if anything happened. Dressed in normal training hakama with her hair in a high ponytail she looked little different to anyone else, and since few had seen her directly she wasn't recognised. The only problem was that she was female, and there were no females in any of the squads.
"Of course I was." Himeyuri replied, the frustration evident in her voice as she straightened up, her comb clip glinting as the sun hit the blue crystal flowers. She hefted the wooden sword once more, her grey eyes glaring at Ulorran in a very unladylike manner as he stood casually with his own wooden sword resting on his shoulder, the other hand resting low on his hip.
"It didn't seem that way to me…However you are a woman." He mocked, enjoying the way she looked at him, anger burning in the depths of her grey orbs. With a full cry of fury she rushed forward, swinging her training sword with little skill or control. With a grunt of amusement Ulorran sidestepped and bopped her over the back of the head with his own wooden sword.
Himeyuri fell to her knees for what felt like the fiftieth time that day, her knees scraped from falling so many times and her eyes tearing up at the pain that throbbed through her skull. Ulorran watched as she let her sword thud to the ground and grabbed the back of her head, biting back a cry but unable to stop at least a small strangled moan escape her.
"Himeyuri-sama!" Yama cried as he hurried to her side, ever the dutiful subject. Ulorran watched as he tentatively put his hand on her arm, blushing the whole time as he gently pried her hands away from her head. Himeyuri winced as Yama ran his hand over the area, not finding any blood, but there was a small lump. "Ulorran-san! You shouldn't be so rough with the Princess!" Yama said firmly as he looked up at his superior, who sighed and gave him an impatient look.
"For the last time Yama! The king asked me to train her, and if he doesn't like my methods he can get someone else to do it. In this squad she's treated no differently to anyone else. Understand?" Ulorran asked firmly, his expression leaving no room for dispute as he pointed his wooden sword at Yama's nose, the wood inches from touching him. Yama sighed and nodded reluctantly, still not satisfied with the result of his out burst. The training field was no place for a lady, particularly one of high status like Himeyuri, and it didn't sit right with Yama that she was there. "Himeyuri, rest over there. Yama, your turn." Ulorran said as he looked at the two youngsters.
"Hai!" Yama said quickly as he got to his feet and drew his Zanpakuto, waiting patiently for Ulorran to swap out his wooden sword for his real one, which he unsheathed, keeping the scabbard in his free hand. Ulorran stood casually as he had with Himeyuri, but Yama knew he was secretly on guard. Yama had improved over these few short years, and could now successfully release his Shikai.
"Come." Ulorran commanded as he always did when he was ready to begin. Yama nodded as he looked into his superior's intense green eyes, the concentrated expression making Yama's hands shake slightly. He knew he had no reason to fear Ulorran, but when they fought he couldn't help the nervous shivers that ran through his small form. Taking a deep breath Yama looked down at his dark purple hilted sword, his deep brown eyes suddenly looking a lot more confident as he held his sword at the ready.
"Reduce all Creation to Ash, Ryujin Jakka!" He commanded, his voice firm, loud and confident. Himeyuri couldn't stop herself from shaking as fire shot up from the ground around the clearing, circling the three of them, but somehow avoiding damaging the trees. Himeyuri could only assume that Yama had a level of control over the flames, or otherwise they were too weak to do any real damage at this level, though the heat coming from the flames pointed to the former option.
"Good Yama! Your release has become much faster." Ulorran praised as he held his sword defensively, a grin spreading across his once serious face, his eyes burning with a new life and excitement. Yama looked down at his sword, the metal blade now engulfed in flames, the heat just barely brushing his fingers. The heat didn't bother him, because when he released his Zanpakuto he could feel liquid fire running through his veins, his whole being interconnected with his Zanpakuto's.
Standing ready Yama waited as Ulorran took a careful stance, his foot poised and ready to throw him forward into Shunpo. Yama waited, not even daring to blink as he looked into Ulorran's focused green eyes. Himeyuri sat frozen to the spot as she watched them, Yama's fire still burning around her. She had thought the boy to be timid and gentle, but the fierce flames couldn't help but shatter that illusion. He was strong, and would only get stronger as he trained.
She gasped as Ulorran moved, leaning forward just a little and disappearing. He reappeared less than a second later, bringing his Zanpakuto down against Yama's. Yama leaned back, forced down under the strain of the older man pushing against him. With a loud cry Yama mustered his strength, his blade firing up as he shoved back, Ulorran jumping back and out of the way as a shot of flame was released against his blade.
"Good! Very good! Your flames are getting hotter, more deadly…A few more years practice and you will surely burn all but the strongest opponent to ash with just that one swing. Your sword truly is the strongest of its type." Ulorran complimented with a smile as he shook out his slightly smoking sword, cooling the abused metal. Yama looked up with a bright smile, his face looking fresh and innocent once more. Ulorran sheathed his blade, motioning to Himeyuri as Yama sheathed Ryujin Jakka too, knowing what was coming next.
"What are we doing now?" Himeyuri asked as she got up, the flames around her dying down immediately to leave scorch marks in a circle around the clearing. There had been no scorch marks before, so she could only guess that he and Yama had trained elsewhere when using fire. Either that or until now Yama's attacks had been too weak to leave scorch marks and damage the foliage. Again she suspected the former.
"We're going to find your Zanpakuto…You clearly have power; I can feel the reiatsu flowing from you. Your Zanpakuto either hasn't materialised yet or its taken a form other than a sword." Ulorran said as he sat down at the centre of the clearing, indicating that Himeyuri should sit down opposite him. Himeyuri watched in confusion as Ulorran laid his Zanpakuto across his crossed legs, his hands resting on it peacefully as his eyes closed as if in meditation.
"What is he doing?" Himeyuri whispered quietly to Yama as he sat at the edge of her and Ulorran's knees so that they made up three sides of a square. The Princess watched as Yama rested his own sword across his knees in the same manner, giving her a small smile at her question, his cheeks red from her direct attention. Yama was a shy boy at the best of times, but having a princess in his presence humbled him even more.
"He's communing with his Zanpakuto. When we talk to our Zanpakuto we get to understand them better, and we fight together more effectively." Yama replied with a bright smile before closing his eyes and falling into a concentrated state. Himeyuri looked between them for a few moments in confusion. He almost makes it sound like his sword is alive…but what am I supposed to do? I don't understand any of this! The redhead thought in frustration as she stared at Ulorran, whose lip quirked upwards in a smirk that made a blush rise on her cheeks.
"What are you waiting for? Summon your power." Ulorran ordered without even opening his eyes. Himeyuri frowned at his peaceful form, his posture so perfectly relaxed and comfortable with his Zanpakuto resting across his knees. She didn't understand what he meant, how could she communicate with something that she didn't even know she had? "Just close your eyes…reach deep inside…and call out." The ebony haired man ordered, barely moving a muscle. With a helpless sigh Himeyuri closed her eyes, but all she saw was the darkness she expected. Now how am I supposed to 'reach deep inside?' She wondered as she tried to focus, though what she was supposed to focus on she wasn't entirely sure.
"I can't do it!" She decided stubbornly after barely two minutes, puffing out her cheeks as she stretched her legs, leaning back on her arms. As if they could see her both Yama and Ulorran let amused smiles cross their lips, Ulorran letting out a small chuckle while Yama stifled his out of respect.
"You really are a child." Ulorran said patronisingly, his green eyes opening to be met with a sulky look of incredulity. Himeyuri's grey eyes looked at him with an almost cold edge, just as Ulorran had expected. He smirked as he looked across at her, his own training on pause for the moment as he tried to teach. "Only a child would give up so easily and sulk so soon." He added, daring Himeyuri to contradict him, and as he expected she pulled in her legs and sat cross legged, ready to try again.
"How do I do this?" She asked, knowing that she had lost whatever challenge he had set. With a satisfied smile Ulorran once again closed his eyes and rested his hands gently on his sheathed sword, Himeyuri watching him closely for a trick or hint, but to her it seemed he was just sitting there with his eyes closed.
"Just close your eyes, relax and keep an open mind…You'll know what to do when you feel it." He replied confidently, slipping back into his own thoughts. Himeyuri watched him for a few more moments before shifting her gaze to Yama, who also seemed to be deep in thought now. With a final sigh Himeyuri closed her eyes and tried to empty her mind, feeling that perhaps it would help.
It certainly helped to relax her body, and gradually her breathing evened out so that she was in an almost sleep-like state, but she was still wide awake, becoming more and more aware of the world around her. She could hear the breeze in the trees, the rustling of every leaf, the sound of her breathing and that of her two companions. She could feel a strange hum coming from the blades across their legs. Thinking that this was what she was supposed to look for Himeyuri focused on the hums, and gradually a third started, only it was different. Very different.
What is this? She wondered vaguely, a slight frown crossing her peaceful features as she focused a little harder on the new feeling. As she focused it seemed to split into two, and then to four and then six. She couldn't understand what was happening at all. Ulorran and Yama had only one strange hum, but she could feel six. Is something wrong?
No! Not at all! An almost high pitched voice replied. It was a girl's voice, almost like a child's only mature at the same time. Himeyuri fought the urge to pull her mind back and open her eyes, her curiosity pushing her on. She could feel the hums slowly taking on shape and form. Though each was small they were certainly powerful when put together, which she supposed was some sort of defence. If she wasn't very strong she was less likely to be noticed straight away.
Who is that? Are you…my Zanpakuto? Himeyuri asked hesitantly, gradually feeling the six parts grow a little stronger in her mind, all of them warping and separating in to six distinctive beings. She couldn't help her confusion at the six small hums in her mind, thinking that something was wrong since Ulorran's Zanpakuto was just a singular sword. It didn't make sense for there to be six separate entities.
We are similar to a Shinigami Zanpakuto, however we're different. We're the power borne of your heart. The same female voice replied brightly, a smile clear in her tone of voice. Himeyuri couldn't help but trust this hum, it seemed kind, and very much at ease in Himeyuri's mind, as if she belonged there.
Does this mean I'm not a Shinigami? Himeyuri asked in an almost worried tone. There was a bright laugh in her mind, and the voice slowly took on a physical presence in her mind, a shape forming in the darkness behind her eyes. By the outline she could see a slim feminine shape with a high ponytail, and two strange wing-like shapes coming from her shoulders.
Not at all! Your power is just different because of your blood! Remember that Royal blood is amongst the purest, so powers vary from time to time. The young woman assured with a wave of her small hand. Himeyuri couldn't help smiling as she paid attention to each hum in turn. None of the others became as clear as this one, but they all had the same familiarity, the feeling that they were all a part of her.
"Himeyuri!" Ulorran's voice called with an excited tone, Himeyuri biting back a growl of frustration as the six hums quickly faded and she was jerked back into reality. She opened her grey eyes ready to give Ulorran a piece of her mind, but seeing his excited smile she couldn't find it in herself to be angry,
"Himeyuri-sama! Your hair ornament!" Yama added as he appeared at Ulorran's shoulder with an equally excited look. Himeyuri gave them both a blank look before her eyes shifted to where Yama was pointing on her lap. How did it get there? She wondered, thinking that perhaps Ulorran had removed it to tease her, but if that was the case then why was Yama so excited? She couldn't believe that he would ever tease her. "Look closer!" The younger Shinigami urged as he leaned further over Ulorran's shoulder. Himeyuri looked down at the black comb again, the two blue crystal flowers glittering up at her,
"There! Did you see that?" Ulorran asked excitedly as to of the delicate petals glinted in a non-existent light. Himeyuri frowned at the clip, just two of the petals glittering at her as she slowly reached out, her fingers hesitating above the petals. She had an almost uncontrollable urge to touch them,
Say my name! The voice from her mind urged in an almost excited tone. Himeyuri's grey eyes widened as she pulled her hand back, the voice gone. Hesitantly she reached out again, and as her fingers got closer to the petals the voice grew louder. Go ahead! Call me out!
How? Himeyuri wondered as she lowered her fingers to touch the smooth crystal petals, the contours gliding beneath her soft touch. She smiled at the bright laughter that filled her ears, a strange tingle running through her,
Just call my name! Shun'o! The bright voice replied as if it were elementary, and Himeyuri couldn't help the slight blush that crossed her cheeks as she gave a small nod. Feeling very self conscious she glanced up at Ulorran and Yama before turning her attention back to the petals.
"Shun'o!" Himeyuri said, all three pulling back as a beam of light shot into the air and burst, leaving behind a curious looking lime green capsule with wings. It was very sleek and aerodynamic, and seemed to be made of paper, but then it unfolded into a familiar figure, "You're…" Himeyuri trailed off as she looked up at the fairy-like being.
"Yes, I'm Shun'o. Pleased to meet you at last, Himeyuri." The blonde fairy replied, Himeyuri smiling as she took in how cute the petite girl was. She wore long black stockings and an almost Chinese styled red kimono dress with an orange lining and matching sash, all of it made of a sort of silk.
"I never thought I'd see this! You have the Shun Shun Rikka! A very powerful technique…It was rumoured to be lost…It'll take a lot of time and effort to truly master it." Ulorran observed as he crouched beside Himeyuri, where Shun'o had glided down to float before her with a bright smile. The blonde shifted her head to Ulorran, her eyes always remaining shut, though Ulorran could feel her looking at him.
"You're a smart one." She complimented as she looked back to Himeyuri with a more serious expression, "He's right you know. We are your power, but you must learn to control us, especially Tsubaki. He's not the type to obey without a reason; you need to earn his respect." Shun'o warned as she looked up, seeing Himeyuri's expression drop slightly.
"You worry too much Himeyuri. You'll prove yourself, you have me as a teacher after all." Ulorran teased, winking as she looked up at him, a blush colouring her cheeks. Yama nodded his agreement as he crouched behind Shun'o and slowly reached out to brush her wing with his fingers, feeling the surprisingly soft limb with a small smile,
"Hey! Careful!" Shun'o warned as she hopped away, Yama blushing and giving his apologies sheepishly as Shun'o and Himeyuri laughed. Ulorran smiled softly as he looked at Himeyuri, very proud of her progress, but she had a long way to go.