Chapter 20: Blood and Water

*Happy (early) Mother's Day, after you read this chapter go hug your mother or mother figure and tell them how much you love and appreciate them.

So you know how I said I'd have ch. 21 posted next Saturday? Yeah change of plans. I don't when/if I'll find time to type it up so to compensate I'll post chapters 21 AND 22 on May 25th. How's that sound?

Naoko: Two chapters in one week? Can you do it?

Me: Please, I'll have that whole week entirely to myself. I'll get it done no problem.

Naoko: Why do I have a feeling you're going to be eating those words?

Gin: Well when she does you can say I told you so. Also congrats on surviving your finals EmpressSaix though if you actually passed them is another matter entirely. And bon voyage as you start your journey to the Grand Canyon tomorrow.

You know Aizen and the Espada went on vacation there once. Grimmjow and I were planning on pushing Aizen over the edge (literally) but Wonderweiss ratted us out. Little bastard. Anyway please review people!

Disclaimer: EmpressSaix doesn't own Bleach, just lots and lots of OCs.*

Naoko wrung her fingers and for the umpteenth time looked out one of the large windows to the courtyard below. The time for respite had passed and the nobles from other countries were slowly trickling in. Each regal and dignified in their own ways. At Seiichi's ingenious suggestion a formal/casual party was being held, a get together of sorts on a sunny summer's day.

White tents had been pitched up and tables being laden with large platters and bowels of food and drink. The victuals diverse as the people who would be eating them. People were milling about enjoying the warm or cool weather depending on who was asked and where they came from.

Naoko adjusted her teal obi belt which felt a little too snug for her comfort. The bun her hair had been twisted into felt too tight as wel. She chose to wear one of the kimonos she and Yumichika had found in her grandmother's childhood home. It was teal and purple with brown tree branches and sparrows. Yumichika insisted that warmer and lighter colors would be best for a summer event but Naoko was set on wearing this one.

It was the most beautiful of the kimonos and she wanted to look her best for her official debut as the Quincy princess.

Uryu though wore a light slate gray suit and blue shirt and darker tie. He stubbornly refused to wear a white suit and Naoko was pretty sure why. She shook her head and gave a light scoff; he really doesn't want any connection being made to him and dad.

Nemu wore a lilac kimono adorned with black butterflies and a violet obi. Purple really was a suitable color for her, it could be dark and gothic or light and gentle. Naoko remembered her statement about purple being the color of royalty. Maybe it's a sign that she'd destined to become royalty. A Soul Reaper being given the title of Quincy queen. Not that Naoko minded, that was an idea she fully embraced and endorsed.

Yumichika was clad in a sandy tan suit, white shirt and pale gold tie. The light colors of his suit highlighted his head of silky dark hair. He wore his feathers as well, so many people were dressed in different and odd outfits no one would really pay any mind.

Both Nemu and Yumichika were in gigais. The other Quincies would be able to tell that they weren't exactly human and perhaps Soul Reaper but without their swords and black uniforms they might be looked over. Part of Naoko was hoping for that and the other part was hoping they would be able to tell. She was set on showing them all that Soul Reapers and Quincies can be together harmoniously.

"Well hello there beautiful." Yumichika chirped walking up to Naoko's side and looking out the window. "You've got quite the attendance, dukes and duchesses, viscounts and viscountesses, earls and countesses well the list goes on."

"The creams of the crop are here from all corners of the world." Naoko took in a slow breath, "I can do this. I just have to act kind, cordial and regally dignified."

Yumichika nodded, "That's right. Naoko are you sure you want Nemu and me at this little party?"

"Yes, my brother and I are trying to promote the idea that peace is possible between are two races. What better way than to have a pair of Soul Reapers here?" She reasoned.

"I suppose that makes sense. I guess it would also make sense for us not to have our swords out in public right?"

"You got that right. These people don't need much in the way of provocation to fight or kill a Soul Reaper. We need to take slow measured steps if we want to change their views."

The pair continued to stare out below for a moment in silence.

Yumichika held out his hand, "Ready?"

Naoko shoved away her nerves and doubts and placed her hand in his, "Show time."

So far, so good. Uryu thought as he casually scanned the crowd. Nemu had her arm threaded around his and could sense his alertness.

"Everything will be alright Uryu, relax." She said leaning a little closer.

The Quincy prince rested his hand on hers, "I know but you can't be too careful."

After being announced the royal siblings were swarmed over by different people. It nearly sent Naoko's claustrophobia to a whole new level. Luckily the people gave them some room and approached them a few at a time. Most were there to introduce themselves and to meet them.

Seiichi took Uryu and Nemu while his partner in crime Sophia took Naoko and Yumichika. The elders led them through the courtyard introducing and meeting each respective nobleman and woman. Each time they did they would ask if Nemu and Yumichika were Soul Reapers which Uryu and Naoko would affirm. Apparently these people were more reiatsu sensitive then the siblings gave them credit for.

The regal members would either narrow their eyes in disgust or look at them with shock and surprise or perhaps horror. Honestly these people are acting as though they've never seen a Soul Reaper before. Uryu mentally scoffed. Then again at this time last year he was of a similar state of mind as them. But one of the reasons behind him changing his mind was draped over his arm.

Seiichi brought over a trio of Africans to the couple. "Prince Uryu and Miss Nemu I would like to introduce to you both the chieftain of the Afolayan Clan Ikenna, his wife Chausiku and their daughter Zola."

Ikenna Afolayan was a tall muscular man but nowhere near as much as Zaraki. His skin was a very dark brown almost black. His black hair was closely shaven and a silver speckled beard that covered half his face; brown eyes took in the sight of the pale prince before him and the Soul Reaper at his side. His orbs narrowed in disgust though he said nothing.

Chausiku was tall and dark skinned too but thin and lithe like an athletic runner. She walked and moved her limbs with fluid grace. Her hair was thick and curly black with small streaks of silver. She regarded the couple with a begin smile and nod.

Zola was quite close in appearances to her mother. She was tall, dark and lithe with burnt sienna eyes. Her hair had been wrapped in a head warp. The way she held herself spoke of power and unearthly grace. She held out her hand for Uryu to shake when he noticed her unusual hand jewelry.

It was a gold hand flower with rings on around her three inner fingers connected to the wide gold bracelet on her wrist by thin matching chains. There was a Quincy cross engraved on the bracelet.

"It is an honor to meet you both," She said smoothly with a smile.

"The pleasure is ours," Uryu responded shaking her hand.

Naoko was finally getting some food from the buffet. She had been paraded long enough and was starving. The meat dishes, beef, pork, ham and chicken, were all calling to her.

"Lovely party Princess." Someone to her right said just as Naoko was about to eat a piece of delicious grilled and marinated chicken.

She turned to see a slightly shorter woman there. She came up to Naoko's shoulder; black hair was braided into a bun top her head with two locks of hair framing her face. She beheld the princess with a pair of light jade green eyes. The silk of her pink hanfu dress hugged her slim petite body.

Naoko searched her memory, she was just introduced to this person she knew her name.

"Min Zhang right?" The girl smiled and gave a polite nod. "My brother and I can pull off a decent shindig huh?"

The Chinese princess chuckled at Naoko's informal and casual speech. "Yes you both can. It's nice to have a simple social gathering."

Naoko heard a little yelp and looked to see a small dog nestled in the crook of Min's arm. It was a bizarre dog to say the least. It was the size and build of a Chihuahua but with gray skin and patches of white fur on its head, tail and feet.

Min noticed Naoko's surprised look and chuckled again. She gently petted the dog's furry head, "This is Chen my Chinese Crested. I take him just about everywhere I travel. He's quite the good travel companion."

Naoko moved her hand so the dog could sniff her then allowed her to pet him. "He's very cute."

When Min moved Chen to make him more comfortable Naoko noticed a large ring on her finger on her right hand. It took up the whole length of her thin digit and was in the shape of a silver dragon with ruby eyes. Its mouth was open at her finger tip and covered downward a little. There was also an engraved Quincy cross on the dragon's back.

"Like my ring?" Min asked.

"It's nice. Family heirloom?" Naoko asked.

"You could say that."

"Bonjour Princess." A new voice rang out from behind.

Naoko turned to see Colette Desrosiers walking up to them. She wore a knee length red skirt coated with black lace and a black blouse printed with a few red roses. Black high heels added a few inches to her slim stature. Her pastel orange hair cascaded down her back in heavy coils and adorned with a few rose hairpins.

Oh dear God...why? Naoko mentally seethed.

Colette looked Naoko over, "Nice bathrobe though I really don't think its appropriate attire for this occasion."

"It's a kimono. In my culture it's considered formal wear. Yours on the other hand looks as though you're going to go bar hopping and whoring in the city slums." Naoko coolly retorted.

Min's jade eyes widened at Naoko's bold retort. Chen merely growled and gave small sharp barks at Colette. The French woman's eye narrowed a fraction before relaxing and giving the girls a slight smile.

"Well that's your opinion. I suppose different cultures have different takes on what is formal and what is not. I must applaud you and your brother this is a decent party and so far no one's been fatally wounded...yet at least." With that the French black widow sauntered away.

Yumichika was casually walking through the crowd. Naoko's plan about having Soul Reapers at a Quincy party seemed to be going well. He passed by a group of girls who started giggling like school girls and shyly looking and waving at him. Yumichika gave them a slight wave and smile which sent the girls giggling again.

Well you sure are enjoying yourself aren't you? Kujaku observed.

Why not? It's a party after all. Besides its best if I act relaxed and friendly less chance for confrontation. The Reaper responded.

I suppose you're right but don't act too friendly with the other women here. Naoko might get jealous. The sword spirit warned.

Naoko? Jealous? I highly doubt that's possible. She's just not the type besides we're not romantically involved with each other so she should have no reason to be jealous. Yumichika reasoned.

Kujaku didn't answer but merely shrugged. If his master wanted to make a blunder between him and that nice Quincy girl then let him. Yumichika caught sight of a young brunette about Naoko's age. She had long brown hair, large glasses and black eyes all of which gave her the appearance of a mousy bookworm. She wore a lilac dress with a frilly white sweater.

And he noticed Reginald talking or rather harassing the helpless dame.

He's the type of man who can't take a hint to back off and walk away. Yumichika sighed and decided to intervene for the lady's sake.

"I have a very nice villa in Paris, care to come by and check it out?" Reginald purred as he leaned closer to the girl.

"Um...Th-That's nice and all but..." The poor thing stuttered nervously.

"Excuse me." Yumichika interrupted.

Reginald glared at the Reaper and the young woman looked up nervously at him.

"What do you want Soul Reaper?" The French nobleman snapped.

"Just wondering if I could borrow the young lady that's all." Yumichika said smoothly while holding his hand out for the young woman.

She hesitantly placed her hand in his and he led her away from a growling and glaring Reginald. After a moment the young woman spoke up.

"Thank you for doing that. I'm not very good at getting people to go away and his advances were making me quite uncomfortable." She said meekly.

The feathered Reaper smiled benignly, "Think nothing of it young lady. I'm Yumichika Ayasegawa and you are?"

The brunette smiled softly, "I'm Mary Richards."

Sakura gave herself one more look over in the full length mirror. She wore a watery blue kimono and cream white obi belt. It was simple and beautiful if she wore anything more extravagant it would look suspicious. This was also why she was leaving her haori and zanpakutuo behind as well, seeing a normal woman walking around was a lot less suspicious then a captain.

She made her way out of her abode and alternating between Shunpo and Hirenkyaku, making her way to the small restaurant where she would meet Akane.

Which turned out not to be too difficult.

The woman was a sitting red beacon, impossible to miss in the sea of black clad or neutral color clad folk around them. She was waving and smiling at Sakura, signaling for her to come over. Akane truly lived up to her name; she was clad in a bright blood red kimono and maroon obi belt. Her hair fell straight to her shoulders and was a bright crimson as well. Her eyes were dark brown or red Sakura couldn't tell.

"It is an absolute pleasure to finally meet you Captain Ishida. My name is Akane Yamamoto." She chirped brightly.

"It's nice to meet you too. So what was it you wanted to speak with me about?" Sakura wasn't trying to be rude she just wanted this meeting to be short and sweet. The cheery cherry red woman was a little too cheery for the Quincy's comfort.

"Straight to business then? Very well. As I mentioned in my first letter there's been a bit of trouble brewing within our family. It seems Naomi, my dearest niece, her mother's mentality or rather sanity is beginning to wane. The two of them were quite close when Naomi was growing up. If I heard correctly you have children as well do you not?" Akane asked sweetly.

"I do, a son and daughter." Sakura replied shortly. The way the woman talked it was as if she were putting on an act.

The red head nodded, "So you know that deep parent child bond well, as do I with my children. Takehiko, Naomi's father, has been trying to contact her but to no avail. Those two have never really seen eye to eye and I know he could really use his daughter's support through this difficult time."

Sakura knew very well what that was like, a parent and child unable to communicate or even stand each other. An example being between her and her own mother and Ryuken and Uryu, though Sakura was working on fixing the latter.

"So what do you expect me to do?" The Quincy captain asked.

"I know a Quincy and Soul Reaper aren't really supposed to get along but if you could just be there for her I. We all have our dragons that we have to face every now and then. Such beasts can be hard to kill without help." Akane said smoothly.

Sakura's ears clearly picked up the slight emphasis on the words "Quincy", "dragon" and "to kill".

Her face remained blank but her mind started reeling. Is she hinting at something? And if so the only connection between Quincy and dragon I can make would for it to be about Uryu but he's in Germany. Wait...what about...

Her heart chilled at the thought of Ryuken being hurt...or worse.

"Is something wrong Captain?" Akane asked in too sweet of a voice.

Sakura recovered her wits, "No, I'm fine. Just...thinking. Was that all? I remembered that I have quite a bit of paperwork waiting for me back at the Division and I'd hate to put it off for later."

"I understand. It must be quite tiring with all your captain responsibilities. I believe we can call a close to our meeting." Akane rose from her seat and said slowly like a predator to it's prey, "It truly was a pleasure to meet you Captain Ishida."

Ryuken twitched. Something or someone was defiantly out there in the darkening yard. He let out a slow but agitated sigh as he closed his book. Damn it all if this is some trick being pulled by Kurosaki or Urahara there will be hell to pay. He thought as quietly stepped outside.

The sun was slowly sinking past the horizon bathing the outdoors with a dark orange and blood red glow. Even with the fading light Ryuken could still see well enough and he saw no one.

He sighed and ran his hand through his snow white locks, "God, I'm starting to become paranoid."

The last of the sun's rays slipped away and night's darkness over took. Ryuken turned and was about to go back inside when a kunai lodged itself in the doorframe an inch from his head. He dully looked at the small knife before turning to face his supposed assassin. Perhaps I'm not paranoid after all...

*This was one of my rare long as hell chapters but you guys deserve it considering I won't be posting for two weeks. Remember I'll be posting chapters 21 AND 22 on May 25th.

I've also given you a slightly deeper intro to some new characters. Out of the four girls who do you think is the true villain of this story?

Plus a lot of other details and info you'll need to keep in the backs of your heads. I put certain things in my story for a reason. Do you guys want me to post a character list, so you can keep track of everyone? ;D So enjoy, review and I'll see you all later!

Gin: Have fun on your trip EmpressSaix and don't worry about things here we got it all under control.

Me: Why does that worry me all the more?

Ayame: *comes in and whispers* Please review guys. *runs back out* Let's party!*