(Originally posted 6/15/2014 * Revision 12/06/2014)
Beta: OveractiveImagination39, Avid Vampire Hunter
Chapter 26: Allegory of Love – Part 2
Lord Aizen handed Orihime over to Lady Aivirrne and Lady Mallia. Unable to do anything else, she held on to the women, and with tears in her eyes she looked at Aziz. "Is he still alive? … Sir Grimmjow?" Orihime breathed out. Ulquiorra's name burned on her tongue, but she had sworn never to speak of him again.
Before Aziz answered, Nelliel appeared at her side and peeled Orihime out of the grip of the two obnoxious sisters. Both women swore under their breath about the taller maiden's behavior.
Giving her friend support, and aware of Orihime's inner turmoil, Nelliel asked in her place, "And Sir Ulquiorra, what about him?"
Aziz gazed to Lord Aizen and opened his mouth, but closed it again.
Narrowing his eyes, the lord gestured for him to answer.
The young man's throat was dry and he stayed silent for a moment longer, unsure how to explain the situation without causing either Sir Ulquiorra or Lady Orihime any more trouble.
Finally he said, "Sir Grimmjow is well and he did what my master requested..."
A displeased huff from Lord Aizen stopped the squire. "You repeat yourself, boy. Ulquiorra? What is his condition?"
"He is alive, but a kind of... of a-accident took place…" Aziz stuttered, wanting to avoid the explanation as to why Sir Ulquiorra had cut his wrists in his insane fight against the chains he had put on himself.
Lord Aizen waved the squire off, closed his eyes, and inhaled deeply.
Aziz's words took the weight from Orihime's shoulders. Taking in a deep breath, she studied her future husband, and for a single heartbeat she was sure Lord Aizen was equally happy to know Ulquiorra was alive.
However, this illusion was shattered in the next moment.
"How annoying, I lost my bet. And what is the meaning of this?" The lord pointed at the bandages in Aziz hands.
"The accident. My master needs treatment, and knowing Lady Orihime would have the necessary items at hand, I decided to go to her, instead of walking all the way to the outer ward for Sir Szayel," Aziz explained.
When he noticed Lord Aizen's features darken, he hastily added, "Lady Orihime was unaware that I came here on my master's behalf!" Aziz lowered his gaze, realizing that his lie was too obvious, and that it would have been better if he had kept his mouth shut.
However, Lord Aizen gave no comment. Instead, he turned around and pointed towards Orihime's precious healing utilities. "I do not appreciate that my future wife is wasting her time with such tasks. I already have a studied physician in my service. Aivirrne, make sure all these useless things are thrown away."
Without saying another word, Lord Aizen walked out.
In the doorway, Bram had just managed to stop his running and get out of the lord's way.
"With the help of Sir Grimmjow, Father Hachigen has brought Sir Ulquiorra to the chapel. Aziz... he is going to die," Bram spoke, anxiety obvious in his voice.
Not at all fully recovered, the words hit Orihime hard and threatened to bring her to her knees once again. Nevertheless, she summoned her courage. Now was not the time and place for giving in to weakness.
Instead, Orihime embraced Nelliel. "Go to the chapel, and look after him for me," she whispered into her friend's ear before she straightened herself completely. "Maiden Nelliel, you have heard my Lord Aizen. Please, clear the sideboard and take everything to Midwife Henna. Some of the things might be of use to her," she stated aloud, sure that her utilities would be safe with the midwife until the day she requested them back.
"I need a moment to myself," she told her new maidens with an attempt of superiority, but the sisters ignored her.
Orihime turned her trembling hands into fists and faced Bram and Aziz. "You are dismissed as well," she said with growing authority.
The squires bowed and rushed away while Lady Aivirrne began to walk towards the cupboard. Nelliel sprang into action as well, briskly passed the lady, and arrived at the cupboard before her. Once there, Nelliel began to pack all the bottles and boxes together.
The ringing of the chapel's bell muted Lady Aivirrne's nasty complaints.
Taking advantage of the situation, Orihime said, "It is time for the Morning Prayer, so you are dismissed to attend. I will stay here and say my prayers privately." She hoped the two maidens would finally do her bidding.
"Lady Orihime, it would be selfish of us to leave you alone after you have experienced such an emotional disaster. We will perform the prayers here with you," Lady Aivirrne crooned with a smile.
A smile that reminded Orihime of a snake. She returned the gesture with a kind smile of her own. "As you wish."
Shooting Nelliel a last glance, Orihime took her praying beads before lighting a candle, which she placed at the window looking onwards to the chapel. Facing it she knelt down, settling her knees on nothing but the stony ground.
The sisters stood behind her, showing no intention of following their new mistress's example.
"Please, ladies, join me," Orihime requested, but this time her words held the taste of an order suitable a woman who soon would become the castle's first lady.
Long-winded, and with aversion, Ladies Aivirrne and Mallia eventually bent down.
Her eyes fixed on the candle, Orihime started praying, begging the Lord to give her beloved Ulquiorra strength, and most of all: sending him the light of hope.
+o+o+
Only few truly devout people knelt in the chapel attending the Morning Prayer. All the others still lay in their own beds or another's because the main attraction was missing.
However, this was not the reason why Father Hachigen shortened Mass. He felt that he was needed in the chamber behind the Sanctuary. A lost soul was struggling to find his way back from darkness.
As a man, the pale knight was a mystery to the priest. Sir Ulquiorra was honest in his loyalty to Lord Aizen, and his love for the kind Lady Orihime pure. The latter was the reason why Father Hachigen held more sympathy for the obviously cursed man than he, as God's servant, should.
The father waited until the last person had left the chapel before he entered the room behind the Sanctuary. A moment before, Sir Ulquiorra's squires had snuck into the chamber using the back door as he had advised the younger of the two earlier.
"Any other man would long be dead after losing so much blood," Sir Grimmjow remarked as the father came to stand next to him.
Arms crossed, the former sixth knight leaned against the wall. "But if you ask me, it only will will only be a matter of time. His heart is broken." He scoffed to himself. "What a cruel destiny. A man known for having no heart now will die because of heartache." Grimmjow felt pity for the Fourth Knight. They had more in common than he ever had believed.
Holding his cross, Father Hachigen sorrowfully agreed and began whispering a prayer while Aziz began the treatment. The knight lay still on his back, eyes open, staring unblinking at the ceiling. When Aziz finished putting on the healing balm and placed the bandages on Sir Ulquiorra's chest, the door opened once again and Nelliel came in.
After a long and fierce kiss, Nelliel briefly turned away from Grimmjow and looked at the pale man. When she faced her mate again, Grimmjow shook his head, but she smiled with assurance. Surprised, his eyes darted to Ulquiorra
The Fourth Knight had closed his eyes, holding a handful of the bandages, and lifted them to his nose, inhaling deeply. Her scent, her unique scent of sweet autumn honey mixed with a warm breeze of summer, enlightened with mint sparkles of a cold winter's night, and tinted with the shy smell of first green in spring; Life in all its colors and fragrances filled him and enlightened the darkness in Ulquiorra's soul.
He breathed them in and sat up. "This is from her." His voice was raspy and sounded foreign to his own ears. He could still hear the demon within his tone. The beast was lurking near the surface of his human mind, waiting for a single moment of weakness to rise and break free. If this would happen, Ulquiorra was sure that he would never be able to conquer it again.
Nelliel approached the Fourth Knight and, settling in a curtsey before him, encircled his hand holding the bandages. "Her feelings have not changed, Sir Ulquiorra. And they never will."
Until this moment, desperation had clouded Ulquiorra's thoughts, making him believe he had lost her, that his Lady Orihime had abandoned their love. He lowered his head, his face heated from the shame of doubting her. She only had done what was necessary to protect him.
Without looking up, he nodded. "Maiden Nelliel, tell my lady I have not forgotten what I have promised her, and from now on I never will." His grip around the bandages tightened.
Though his words came out strong and were meant sincerely, they did not came from the heart. Fighting the demon was a hopeless task, and doubt was not as easy to chase away as Ulquiorra had wished for.
"Father, if you will allow, I shall proceed the nightly offices together with you. I am accustomed with their course and will be no burden," he said.
"You should focus on getting ready for the tournament instead of draining your strength with such foolish activities," Grimmjow remarked before Nelliel could stop him.
"This will help me to focus. Or do you prefer to stand guard the next nights as well?" Ulquiorra faced the other man. In the twilight of the room, his green eyes gleamed dangerously.
Grimmjow held the Fourth's gaze, ignoring the taunt. "Come to the mill whenever it pleases you and show me how good your focus is."
"Do not be so foolish, Grimmjow. Orihime and I were terrified that we had lost one of you. We all should stand by and not fight against the other," Nelliel exclaimed as she grabbed her mate's shirt.
Ulquiorra took the bandages from Aziz and finished the wrapping on his own. Then he stood. "You are needing exercise as well. If you want to regain your title, you should not underestimate Sir Luppi. I will come to the mill and train with you, Grimmjow. For both of us it is of benefit to do it without being watched."
The former Sixth Knight nodded.
+o+o+
"Grimmjow will have an eye on him, and they will start getting in shape for the tournament tomorrow," Nelliel spoke under her breath. She walked next to Orihime. Both were followed by the Ladies Aivirrne and Mallia.
Nelliel had returned after the breakfast, but Orihime's new maidens had given her little chance to speak about Ulquiorra without gathering their attention. As they now strolled around the training ground the other two women were distracted with admiring and chatting about the knights engaged in training fights.
Unnoticed by them, Orihime stopped and bent down. Her fingers carefully touching a lone white flower. She shifted the frail blossom a bit. "Now that my healing utilities are out of reach, what of importance can I do to show him my love?" she whispered.
"You will find other ways," Nelliel spoke in a low voice, keeping an eye on the ladies.
"It is more difficult than I could have imagined." Orihime's gaze followed Nelliel's to their two unpleasant companions.
The maiden took Orihime's hand and pulled her back to her feet. "You are not alone, and remember that the smallest of things are of great value when it comes from a beloved one."
+o+o+
In front of the main entrance of the white castle, a village of tents and makeshift stables grew day by day. As Lord Aizen had announced, more warriors and knights from all over the country and beyond found their way to Hueco Mundo. Some only came for the joy of fighting and gaining honor, but others also were looking forward to challenging one of the lord's high-ranked ten knights.
Now that the king's flag was waving next to the crescent moon high atop the Keep of Las Noches, Lord Aizen had become more relaxed about the showing of his power. The main force of his army, the one-hundred barbarian warriors that had survived the recent conquest of the castle of Hirako, had returned. Their camp was located at the back entrance near the outer ward.
Starrk stood outside, on the top of the Keep, and watched the growth of the camps on both sides.
Soon, another one-hundred and fifty of Rudobon's men would arrive. In secret, Lord Aizen had sent word and called the warlord upon the promise Ulquiorra had received months earlier. Starrk shifted his gaze towards the horizon. Lord Aizen indeed had become relaxed, and now that Lady Orihime had given him her promise, their lord and master set the gears into motion to reach his secret goal.
That Aizen believed the auburn haired girl with the starry eyes finally would turn the wheels of fortune for him into the right direction was obvious. As much as Starrk agreed with that, he was sure that Aizen underestimated his betrothed, as well.
Lady Orihime had lost a good part of her naivety and gained a respectable amount of inner strength. Starrk was convinced she would find a way to achieve what her heart truly desired. However, he was unsure if she was aware about the price she would have to pay, and if she was truly able or willing to do so.
For him, Starrk admitted bitterly, the price was too high. So he continued to stay the obedient and silent henchman Lord Aizen expected him to be. Lilynette's life was too valuable to put in peril. He loved his sister dearly, and he had promised their mother on the deathbed that he would take good care of the innocent girl.
Starrk's gaze fell. So far his success was rather pitiful, and had cost her dearly.
After the first disagreement with Lord Aizen and its horrible outcome, Starrk had stayed away from any suspicious activities, and the knowledge that the Lord of Las Noches had spies everywhere had even kept him away from making inquiries about Lilynette's whereabouts.
Only when she was brought to the castle during the tournament, he found himself thinking of simply running away with her. But he always scrapped the idea quickly. Though it was not obvious, she was guarded all of the time, and it was impossible for him to speak with her alone.
Maybe, Starrk thought at last, one day a solution would present itself. But, until then, he would have to hide his growing aversion behind the mask of disinterest and sleepiness.
+o+o+
"Have you noticed, my friends, how desperately our lost puppy is searching for a new master after his old one, and even his mistress, has abandoned him," Nnoitra sneered, looking at Ulquiorra with a grin. Aaroniero laughed noisily, like the rest of the knights sitting around them.
That the Fourth Knight was searching for solace in prayer was a constant topic for jokes during the meals. Nnoitra and Aaroniero especially never grew tired of enjoying themselves at the pale knight's expense.
Ulquiorra always stayed silent and never gave a comment to their taunts. Yet, Orihime was aware how hard he fought to keep his control and to project the facade of aloofness. Though she avoided facing him, and only glanced secretly in his direction, she always noticed when his shoulders grew rigid and one hand vanished under the table where it turned into an iron fist. Each time she saw his torment, her heart clenched painfully, and she pondered even harder how to show him his destiny and wellbeing was always on her mind.
As recommended by the Lord of Las Noches, the seating was changed and Ulquiorra now sat across from Orihime, guarded by Lady Aivirrne and Lady Mallia. Their constant chatter wore on him even more than the Fifth and Ninth Knight's taunts.
Since the preparations for the tournament had started, their only topic was which of the knights they would grant with a favour. For them, this was only for their own pleasure. They never would choose a knight because of sympathy or romantic feelings. To boast with their champion was their only goal, and none of the given tokens were ever sewn by their own hands. About which of the maid servants they would choose for this task, the ladies spoke about behind Ulquiorra's back.
He despised their doing, but endured it because of the distraction their talk and excessive behavior at the table caused. This gave Ulquiorra the opportunity for throwing hidden glances at his beloved one. Though each glance fueled the fire inside of him as much as it increased his desperation, he could not restrain himself from doing so.
The demon called for release. Draining the beast's strength with excessive training during the day he did with Grimmjow, and further keeping his mind busy by attending the nightly prayers, brought him to his limit faster than expected.
And every day his love was sitting right before him, and yet she was out of reach for all eternity. This took his resolve apart bit by bit.
Giving in to such thoughts was a dangerous matter. Ulquiorra's vision blurred. Remembering his promise, he gritted his teeth and battled once more against the rising darkness, ignoring the hopelessness that ruled his heart.
In the same moment, Lady Aivirrne spilled her full goblet. Shouting and furious, she and her sister jumped up and moved away from the table, in an attempt to avoid getting their gowns stained with the red wine that threatened to drip over the table's edge.
Orihime flinched as well. However, her action was not caused by the ladies, but because of the terrible look in Ulquiorra´s eyes. In all of the ongoing confusion, their gaze had met for a single heartbeat.
What she saw tore her apart.
While all others around the Fourth Knight left the table, he'd stayed seated, ignoring the rivulets of red wine flowing around his silver plate, dripping, and wetting the dark leather of his trousers.
After an awfully long time, Ulquiorra moved, stood, and left unnoticed by the majority still engrossed in watching Ladies Aivirrne and Mallia blaming each other for the mishap.
"My dear Orihime, it would be best for you to get out of the way as well. The lovely gown you are wearing today outlived its last owner. It would be a shame if it were to be ruined today." Lord Aizen offered her his hand.
Orihime swallowed the heavy lump in her throat, praying that the tears that had gathered in her eyes would not fall. Obediently, she followed her future husband, who abandoned her only a few moments later when, seemingly out of nowhere, Master Gin approached him with a bottle of wine in his hand.
A little lost, she stood in the middle of the great hall. Her thoughts returned to Ulquiorra. Besides ensuring him of her unwavering love, she wanted to tell him that she was trying to find some reliable proof of Lord Aizen's ill intentions.
Having such at hand, Orihime believed she would be able to convince Ulquiorra to risk an escape to the Kuchiki castle, and request support from Lord Byakuya and perhaps even the King himself. However, due to her promise, talking to her beloved one would only be possible with her future husband's permission. So far, a believable pretext had not come to her mind.
The loud voices of her obnoxious maids of honor caused Orihime to flinch again and cut her musing. Without taking a breath, their bickering had returned to the tournament and which knight would be worthy of gaining their favour.
Orihime sighed and pitied any knight the ladies would choose. The giving of the token was supposed to be an intimate act between the lady and her champion, a moment where they both were allowed some privacy. Her heart skipped a beat and she sucked in a deep breath. An idea took root in her mind and filled her with joy, yet at the same time the bitter taste of fear welled up and sat heavily on her tongue.
Ignoring it, Orihime lifted her gown and walked over to the First Knight. If her request would be too far-fetched, he would tell her. "Sir Starrk, would you grant me a moment of your time," she asked solemnly.
Starrk stopped his sorrowful observation of Tier, who still sat broodingly at the table, and shifted his attention to the young auburn-haired woman next to him. Lady Orihime waved him closer and he bent down.
"Sir Starrk, do you think it is suitable for me to give a token to each of my lord's highest ten knights? They all deserve my admiration as they fight for the honor of Las Noches and therefore mine as well," Lady Orihime whispered into his ear, her chest heaving but quieted.
Fully aware of the reason behind the lady's question, he admired her for this bravery. The Eighth and also the Ninth Knight had been cruel to her. Facing them would take a lot of courage. So he had been right, she was willing to pay a high price and suffer for the man she loved.
For a heartbeat, his thoughts returned to Tier once more. Lord Aizen had banned her from his bedchamber and Tier's disappointment, more so her growing anger, was always tangible. Nevertheless, she had nipped his tries to comfort her in the bud.
Starrk cut his musing. "Lady Orihime, I have heard other ladies do so in the past. It would a generous gift and I see no reason why Lord Aizen should turn down your request," he whispered back. Sure that the sly Lord of Las Noches would be more entertained than offended by such a request, and play along.
Orihime's conviction grew and she began to walk towards her future husband, only to hesitate after a few steps.
Sir Szayel was approaching Lord Aizen and Master Gin.
She stopped by the sight of the physician, and though she wanted, Orihime could not bring her feet to move any further. The examination and the disgusting joy the Eight Knight had so obviously felt in the moment he had invaded her private area was too fresh on her mind.
Starrk noticed Lady Orihime's rigidity midway. He looked over to Lord Aizen and frowned. Their lord and master was handing a bottle of wine over to Sir Szayel. And to Starrk it was certain, the Eight's presence had caused Lady Orihime to falter.
He followed her and offered his arm. A little encouragement was needed, and the First Knight was more than willing to provide it.
In the moment they approached the three men, Lord Aizen abruptly raised a hand to interrupt Sir Szayel's speech, but the physician was too engrossed to notice.
"... as I said, I have outdone myself! The wine's taste will not be influenced at all, my lord. And the requested effect will be delayed but the more wine is drunken the outcome is inevitable..." were the last words Starrk overheard when they came to stand next to the three men.
While Lady Orihime expressed her wish to Lord Aizen, Starrk followed Master Gin and Sir Szayel at a distance. Later on, he would seek out the Eighth Knight under the pretext of some health issue and then invite him to the tavern. Szayel was clever, but also a narcissistic bastard. With the help of some wine, a busty maid servant on the lap, and a mouth full of compliments, Starrk was sure he would be able to find out with what the physician had outdone himself.
+o+o+
Grimmjow's sword clashed against Ulquiorra's with utter force, sending the pale man to the ground.
This was not the first time, and Grimmjow swore violently under his breath using his mother tongue.
Ulquiorra's mind was elsewhere. The Fourth was not focused at all, his movements predictable and lacking his usual precision. The more days of training that passed, the worse it became. In the beginning Ulquiorra had surpassed the former Sixth Knight, and could have killed Grimmjow easily with a single stroke more than once. Now the situation was awkwardly different, and Ulquiorra had become far inferior to him. Grimmjow knew that it was not his own skills that had improved, but that his opponent was losing his will to fight, and was giving in to the despair he felt.
Grimmjow threw his sword away, stomped towards Ulquiorra, and pulled the man to his feet with brutal force. "By your God's cock and the lips of my double-minded Goddess, get yourself together. Love is true power! If you cannot live without it, then die fighting for it!" Grimmjow yelled into Ulquiorra's face before he pushed him back to the ground.
"You think you know what despair is? Believe me, you have no idea. Come back when you are ready to train seriously and give me your all," he reached down, picking up his sword, and proudly walked away.
Ulquiorra sat on the ground and gave no answer. Grimmjow's words had hit him hard, because they were true. The former Sixth Knight had held onto his love for years without having any sign that Nelliel was even alive. For a man as driven and easily guided by his emotions as Grimmjow, this was remarkable behavior.
Slowly, Ulquiorra stood and dusted himself off. His unwavering belief and willpower was the one thing, besides his demonic heritage, which had always contrasted him from any other. But Grimmjow was right. Love was power. His Lady Orihime was alive and well. Once, this had been all he wanted. That was what he should have concentrated on, instead of drowning himself in self-pity; something that did not suit him at all.
Ulquiorra lifted his own sword. "Grimmjow, come back. I am ready," he called out and took a stance, ready to fight against all of the despair and force the demon under his will.
He would defeat this darkness, and hold his Lady in his arms once more.
+o+o+
Ten white scarves were placed on the table in the library at the Keep's top; every one made out of the finest linen.
The tournament was to begin the next day, and Orihime had just finished the scarves in time. Each one of them were sewn and embroidered with a number and the emblem of Las Noches. With Nelliel behind her, she stood at the table watching, anxiety making her heart beat furiously in her chest.
Lord Aizen stood silently at the other side of the table, taking a close look at every one of the scarfs.
At first sight they all looked the same, but on closer inspection, the one with the number four was made with greater care than all others. The stitches were shorter and delicate, and every one placed with a prayer on the lips. The linen had been soaked with secretly shed tears whenever another day had passed with Orihime failing to find the proof she was looking for.
That she already had overheard an important conversation on the day she had started to sew the token had slipped from her mind.
After Lord Aizen's eyes slowly wandered over the scarves, his gaze returned to the one prepared for the Fourth Knight with a smile that caused Orihime's stomach to drop. She stood as still as she could, hiding the fear that her betrothed would notice the difference and revoke his permission.
Lord Aizen's gaze lingered on the scarf a moment longer, then he turned towards Orihime.
However, a knock on the door, and the voice of a page announcing the arrival of Dame Lilynette, interrupted whatever Lord Aizen intended to say. The page ushered a girl with blonde hair into the room. The girl cast Orihime a glance out of one sky blue eye, but the other was covered by her hair. Otherwise, she showed no reaction.
Orihime immediately recognized the girl as the one she had met in the nunnery, but kept this to herself as well.
"Very well, Orihime, take your token and do as you please. Do not forget to seal your appreciation with a kiss, as each of my knights should be treated equally," Lord Aizen said before he took Lilynette's arm. "Come, as usual your arrival is eagerly awaited."
The Lord of Las Noches left with the girl at his arm.
For a moment, Orihime looked after her, remembering their encounter and how hateful the girl's speech had been. Lilynette's revelations that day also prompted Orihime to believe that something serious between her and Lord Aizen had happened, and that this had not been resolved so far.
Suddenly another detail of their conversation occurred in her mind and she furrowed her brows. "Nelliel, listen: Dame Lilynette has a brother. Please, try to find out if he still is serving here," she whispered as they both collected the scarves together under the watchful eye of her obnoxious Maids of Honor.
+o+o+
Later, on the same day, Orihime gave the first scarf to Yammy, the Tenth Knight.
It was an easy task for her to do. The behemoth of a man with the mind of a child had done her no harm in the past. Without hesitation she entered his chamber, and wished him all the best for the upcoming combats on the following day. As answer he kneeled before her with a huff and she casted soft kisses on both his cheeks, after he had tied the scarf around his left arm.
When she left Yammy's chamber and turned towards the only other chamber in the bastion, Orihime faltered.
"My lady, here is the token for the Ninth Knight," Lady Aivirrne said sweetly, while she offered Orihime the scarf and Lady Mallia knocked on Sir Aaroniero's door.
Facing Sir Aaroniero caused her stomach to churn. She did not fear his appearance, or kissing his disfigured face. What caused her heart to clench was that the Ninth Knight might find fault in her doing and once again speak up against her, or find reason to put blame on the Fourth Knight.
Standing tall, Orihime pushed her anxiety aside. This was only the first obstacle on the way to see her beloved Ulquiorra. No, Sir Aaroniero was not at all the one she feared the most. This was the one she would have to face next.
Impatiently, Lady Mallia knocked again and pulled the door open with an annoyed huff.
Orihime inhaled sharply and immediately lowered her eyes to the floor, refusing to look any longer at the embarrassing scene playing out before her.
Sir Aaroniero laid in bed with a woman, both naked and engrossed in the task of shameless lovemaking. The giggles of the two obnoxious sisters caused them to stop. The woman below the knight shrieked, grabbed the blanket and covered her face while the disfigured knight turned around. The showing of his uncovered face effectively muted both sisters.
Orihime ignored Sir Aaroniero's loud cursing and took the scarf from Lady Aivirrne's hand. Her eyes downcast, she walked into the room and dropped the token at a chair near the entrance. "Forgive us this rude interruption. My maidens were acting too eager. With this gift I wanted to honor your knightly qualities and wish you all the best for the upcoming tournament," Orihime announced.
Aaroniero stared dumbfoundedly at her. Before he could open his mouth and demand to seal her gift with a proper kiss, Orihime turned on her heels and left without another word.
+o+o+
Later, Orihime lit the candle and carefully placed it on the windowsill. Behind the uncolored glass, the sun melted with the horizon and painted the chapel's white walls in a red shade. The chapel's bell rang, announcing that it would soon be time for the evening prayer.
She would stay in her room like she had done since the day she had made her promise to Lord Aizen. Her forehead pressed against the cold window. She waited, her heart fluttering in her chest.
Then he appeared.
Orihime lifted a hand and let her finger run over the smooth, clear surface, whispering her beloved knight's name.
+o+o+
Ulquiorra approached the chapel. Before the entrance he took the sword from his belt and handed the weapon, together with his surcoat, to Aziz. The young man passed the surcoat over to his younger brother.
Ulquiorra widened the hem of his shirt and reached for the cloth Father Hachigen always placed next to the entrance together with a bucket of water. The cold water washed away the sweat from a long and exhausting day of training with Grimmjow, and cooled the heat that started filling his gut.
The amount of people who came to attend the evening prayer had grown again. Yet most of them were visitors of the tournament, and only a few servants from the castle who could afford to pause their work. All had heard the ballads the minstrels sang of the cursed pale knight whose heart was broken by his forbidden love to a beautiful lady.
Many of the guests believed this to be a made up story. However, this was part of the Fourth Knight's growing popularity, especially among the foreign ladies visiting the tournament. Which increased with every token Ulquiorra turned down. All the women were beautiful and dressed in expensive clothes, and he knew as soon as he, if he would, accepted at least one favour, the unwanted attention would stop. Yet he could not bring himself to do so.
Ulquiorra's gaze moved upwards to the Keep. A token from his Lady was the only one he would take. Heat loomed on his insides, gathering in his gut and his heart ached with longing.
Maiden Nelliel, who came every day to the mill bringing food and treats for him and Grimmjow, had talked about Lady Orihime sewing tokens for all the ten high ranked knights. The mere prospect of seeing her again lifted him.
Nevertheless, Ulquiorra hoped that Lord Aizen would stop her from giving her tokens, even if it were at the last moment. He was not at all worth the humiliation the task would put on her. Most of the knights, at the head Sir Szayel, showed no respect and carried only ill thoughts for his Lady Orihime. Moreover, facing the Eighth Knight alone would be dangerous. The physician knew how to satisfy his needs while leaving her virginity untouched.
Anger and a feral jealousy welled up while Ulquiorra stared at her window. He narrowed his eyes. In the setting sun's light the candle's faint glowing was barely visible, and the red mist rose again and clouded his vision. Ulquiorra shook his head, trying to get a grip on his senses.
Behind the window, a shadow appeared, and a moment later the candle's light glowed stronger. Ulquiorra concentrated on the light and on slowing down his breathing, which came in gasps. The light was for him, and she'd taken great care of it. The candle burned all night for him to see whenever he stepped outside. A light in the darkness that surrounded him.
The red mist refused to fade and Ulquiorra reached down, grabbed the bucket and poured it over his head. The cold water effectively diminished the nagging heat for the moment. Finally, after brushing his eyes clear, all that was left were the red rays of the setting sun and the candle's golden gleam.
+o+o+
Clutching the scarf with the number eight embroidered on it tightly in her hand, Orihime stared anxiously at the door to Sir Szayel's private chamber. However, her hands continued to tremble.
"He cannot be trusted. Let me come with you," Nelliel whispered, shooting the two obnoxious sisters behind them an angry glance. The ladies already had declared they had no desire to face the Eighth Knight, especially not in the building that the man called his hospital. Most in Las Noches considered it a house of death, speaking so in hushed tones; often times blessing themselves as if to ward off the evil in this place.
After the breakfast, the physician had left the Keep in a hurry and one of the twins, who served Sir Szayel as page, had delivered the message that his master was waiting for her in his private chamber to recieve his token.
She should enter alone, the page had said.
Orihime shook her head. "I will be fine and back soon." She did not trust her own words when she knocked and entered as soon as she was called in.
The Eighth sat on his bed and smiled widely at her. "Welcome my little flower. Feeling dry?" He patted the free space next to him.
Behind her, the door fell shut. Orihime stiffened and her heart instantly leapt to her throat as fear washed over her.
"I can help to make the fluids flow again. My fingers are very skillful," he said and rose.
Orihime's breathing sped. She wanted to run away but, in the tight grip of anxiety, her body refused to move.
Sauntering towards her, Sir Szayel spread one hand high in the air, moving his fingers teasingly.
When he stopped before Orihime, she summoned all her courage, lifted the token, and held it between them. "I am only here to honor your knightly qualities and wish you all the best for the tournament." Her voice trembled as much as her hand offering the scarf.
The physician took both in his, lifted it, and placed a kiss on the cloth in her palm. When Orihime backed away, Sir Szayel grabbed her wrist and pulled her towards him.
"No, let me go," she pleaded and placed both hands against the knight's chest. Orihime pushed, but the lean man was stronger than he looked, his grip unbreakable.
"Do not worry, I will leave no trace," Szayel breathed in her ear. Then he stuck out his tongue and licked around her earlobe. A whimpering was all that came from the auburn-haired woman. He loved how helpless she was, it fueled his lust. Szayel brushed over her heaving chest, his fingers running lower, a victorious smile spreading his lips.
The Eighth Knight was so eager in his task that he missed the door being opened again.
A strong hand reached for the physician's shoulder, then grabbed and squeezed it painfully. "Take your hands off of her, Szayel," Starrk commanded.
Sir Szayel squirmed in the larger man's grip, but Starrk did not budge until Lady Orihime was set free.
Lightheaded, Orihime swayed on her feet and thankfully took Sir Starrk's arm.
Nelliel took Orihime's other arm as soon as she had left Sir Szayel's private chamber. "Are you alright? Those damn, twisted sisters kept me from following you," she complained and gazed over her friend's clothing.
Orihime nodded weakly. The encounter had shaken the resolve in her plan badly.
"From now on, I will accompany you," Sir Starrk announced and pressed her hand on his arm in assurance.
The First Knight's words relieved Orihime. But nothing came without a price, and having Sir Starrk at her side would cost her the privacy she had counted on during the giving of the token to her beloved.
+o+o+
On the next day, the tournament officially began. Lord Aizen curtly welcomed all guests and knights, and then the first combats already took place. Rather unspectacular fights, in which the winners could gain the right to challenge one of Las Noches' famous ten knights.
The fights were less skillful, due to the fact that most of the opponents were not even appointed knights. They were bloody clashes and each one ended with the death of the loser.
Orihime witnessed with growing fear, that her future husband constantly ignored cruel and unfair actions. Relaxed, Lord Aizen sat next to her on the high platform in front of the fighting area, the usual smile never leaving his face.
After the introductory fights, Sirs Yammy, Aaroniero, and Szayel were usually the ones challenged by the winners. The three knights were known for mercilessly slaughtering their hopeful opponents. And then the long awaited combats led by the rank knights would take place.
What Orihime knew so far Nelliel had told her, and all information the maiden had gathered from her mate, who would challenge Sir Luppi. Sir Grimmjow's request was already accepted by Lord Aizen; and his sign, the face of a spitting panther, was nailed on the large wooden board that showed the upcoming fights.
No longer willing to watch the ongoing combat, Orihime gazed to the left. On the lower platform, Dame Lilynette was sitting. The girl was Sir Starrk's sister and his only living relative, as Nelliel had found out. Nevertheless, Lilynette never sat at her brother's side during the meals, and Orihime never saw the two of them standing without company. However, most of the time Lilynette was ignored by the other members of the court, and neither Lord Aizen nor Sir Starrk had introduced the girl to her or any of the foreign guests.
An air of heaviness surrounded the knight and his sister, and it was obvious how much Sir Starrk loved the girl. As kind and honorable the First Knight acted towards her, it struck Orihime odd that he ignored the disrespectful way someone as close as Lilynette was treated. Once a chance to speak with him alone would arise, she would take it, and that she had met his sister before would be a good opportunity to start a conversation about why he allowed such rudeness.
+o+o+
Sweating, Grimmjow lay on the ground, his sword just out of reach. The sharp tip of a broadsword piercing his throat.
"Give up, you are defeated," Ulquiorra stated.
Grimmjow gritted his teeth and rolled over, ignoring the blade cutting his skin. With his own sword back in hand he, jumped up and took a stance. "Forget it, as long as I can stand I will never give up," the former Sixth Knight barked.
Ulquiorra lowered his sword. "Fool, keep your bravery for the real fight."
Grimmjow touched the wound at his throat. It was not deep, but still bled profusely.
"Remember, you do not have my condition. Your wounds do not heal as fast as mine. Sometimes you have to swallow your pride for the greater goal," Ulquiorra lectured. Then his attention was drawn to Nelliel, who approached them at full speed, a bundle with food dangling in her hand.
Food chosen for them by his Lady Orihime. Ulquiorra's mouth began to water and once more an unholy heat spread forth and filled his gut.
"You are the one to talk, my friend," Grimmjow said as he noticed the burning fire in Ulquiorra's eyes.
The pale man swallowed and concentrated on putting his emotions back in check. He needed more time every day, and not a chapel's bell ringing passed without him fighting an internal battle as well.
Whether he would be able to keep the upper hand against the demon in the heat of the tournament, Ulquiorra no longer was sure.
+o+o+
The giving of the token to Sir Zommari a day before the Seventh Knight would fight against the Eighth to prove his rank turned out to be as easy and uneventful as it had been with Sir Yammy. The dark-skinned man even refused her kisses, and just took the scarf with a bow from her hands.
Sir Luppi was charming and kept his hands away when Orihime placed a kiss on both his cheeks. If he would have done the same without being watched by Sir Starrk, she was not sure. The traitorous gleam in the young man's gaze and his too nice a smile caused an icy chill to run down her spine.
What the other two knights spared her, Sir Nnoitra redeemed easily with his wanton speech. Orihime showed no reaction, and the excitement of seeing her beloved Ulquiorra very soon helped her as well to ignore the man's hands on her bottom.
When she was finished and eager to leave, Sir Nnoitra took out a knife and cut his scarf into two, "See little girl, this is what I will do tomorrow with your lovesick puppy," he said, standing tall; his face painted with a gruesome grin as he towered over her.
Again, it was Sir Starrk who calmed her. "Be not so full of yourself, Nnoitra. As far as I remember, you have never won against Sir Ulquiorra, or could even land a single hit," the First Knight said, laying a hand on Orihime's shoulder before he led her out of the chamber.
Later on the same day, the moment Orihime had waited and longed for was close, and she was barely able to hide her excitement. Especially since her obnoxious maids of honor had left in a rush, whining about feeling very sick. Which was no wonder, after how they had gulped down a tray full of sweets. The sweets Nelliel had brought for her, despite the fact that Orihime had said she was unable to eat anything. However, Nelliel had insisted, but then had left the sweets to Ladies Aivirrne and Mallia without complaint.
When Nelliel left for the mill, Orihime noticed her friend exchanging a few words with Midwife Henna, and she wondered what was said to make them suddenly break out in laughter.
Finally, Orihime was also able to leave the tournament ground, and with only Sir Starrk at her side she walked along the path leading towards the chapel. The bell announcing the evening prayer would ring very soon, and it was arranged that she could meet Ulquiorra in the room behind the sanctuary.
They walked in silence, but it was obvious to Orihime that the First Knight was pondering about his sister, whom he had gazed at before they had left.
Going along with the bravery that suddenly swelled in her chest, Orihime plucked up her courage and told the First Knight what was long on her mind, "Did your sister tell you that we have met before?"
Sir Starrk became rigid and his step faltered. "No," he answered a moment later, his voice almost a whisper.
"Yes, and she mentioned that her brother was serving at Las Noches. It was a rather strange meeting," Orihime laughed nervously.
The First Knight suddenly glanced around. Then he turned on the spot, grabbing her shoulders and looking her deep in the eye. "Mute your voice! Where? Tell me, where have you met Lilynette?!"
The grave expression on Sir Starrk's face gave Orihime a chill. "In the nunnery where we stayed after Sir Ulquiorra was attacked by the thugs and received a severe injury," she answered in a rush, taken aback by the other's behavior.
Sir Starrk let her go and, seeing how moisture gathered in the always so composed First Knight's eyes, the truth dawned on Orihime. "You did not know that she was there? Why is that?"
Once again Starrk glanced around. "This is of no concern, Lady Orihime, but I owe you more than my life for sharing this with me. One last question before I beg you that we never speak about this matter again: The nunnery is the one located behind the border between Hueco Mundo and Lord Byakuya's country? Near the road that crosses the huge forest?"
Orihime answered the question with a clear nod.
Sir Starrk exhaled. After placing a kiss on Orihime's hand, they continued walking. The First Knight's steps lighter than before. What he'd wanted to find out for years had just fallen into his hands by accident. A drop of bitterness was left, though. He would have to leave Tier behind. Time would bring her around eventually, and then she would realize that Lord Aizen did not deserve her affection.
Yet, to wait until that moment, Starrk could not afford. Lilynette's life was too valuable and to take her out of Lord Aizen's grip was the only goal that mattered at the time.
What had just occurred confused Orihime, but the chapel was only a few feet away, and in only a few beats of her thundering heart she would be face to face to her beloved Ulquiorra. She pressed his carefully created token to her chest.
Inside the chapel, Father Hachigen awaited them. "He is already here, child. Today you are shining like the very sun. Go and bring light into his troubled soul," the priest said and blessed her when she curtsied before him.
"I cannot help it, Lady Orihime," Sir Starrk said following her to the room, "My order is not to leave you alone with him. But..." He smiled and closed the door, "Lord Aizen said nothing about watching you all the time," Starrk added and remained turned around, looking away from Orihime and the Fourth Knight, who'd leapt to his feet once laying eyes on his Lady.
Orihime smiled thankfully. She kept her gaze low, even though she had waited for so long to see her beloved Ulquiorra. But she was afraid. Would he able to endure her touch? Would she be able to keep a distance if he would request it?
"My Lady!"
A shiver ran down her spine. So much longing lay in his deep voice. She lifted her head and trembled. Ulquiorra stood only a pace away, his chest heaving, his eyes filled with a green fire; his hand reaching for her.
Orihime swallowed, finding her mouth dry. Her gown was too tight and the room suddenly too hot. She yearned for his touch. Not knowing what to do, she began, "I am only here to honor your knightly qualities and wish you all the best for the tournament." Orihime said the words, like she had done six times before, her hands holding the scarf moving up towards Ulquiorra.
Ulquiorra had prepared himself for this meeting. The best he could, he had forced the demon deep inside. He had wanted to avoid her touch, because it was better for them both. However, all of his preparations were suddenly useless. He closed the distance and pulled her into his arms. Ignoring Starrk and anything else, he kissed her.
The token fell to the floor when Orihime wrapped her arms around him. His kiss was soft and long, and took all her senses away.
"Orihime..." Ulquiorra breathed, hiding his face in her hair, trying to get a grip on his emotions while reveling in her sweet scent.
Soothingly, Orihime stroked his hair, holding her lover tightly. "I missed you so much," she whispered.
Ulquiorra kissed her again before he slowly set her free, and stepped back. Orihime let him go. Sweat covered his forehead, and the way he was shivering told her how much strength it took him to stay composed.
"I know you said that nobody would believe the words of a traitor, but with some proof at hand, the King has to help us. I am trying to find something valid, but so far without much success," Orihime said. She was aware of Sir Starrk's presence, but the talk they'd just had would prevent the First Knight from speaking.
Starrk did not move, but he listened closely. The two lovers' first talked in whispers, but soon Lady Orihime's voice rose. She spoke with urgency; that they needed to leave together for Sir Ulquiorra's sake.
Starrk had never given much care for rumors, but the Fourth Knight's case was different. The pale young man had his sympathy, like the fair auburn-haired girl he was so desperately in love with. Right then even more than before.
For another split second Starrk hesitated, but then he made his decision with a clenched fist. Fate had placed him in the position to give the lovers what they needed, and repay the information he had received so surprisingly with a secret of equal worth.
He turned around and cleared his throat. As soon as he had the two lovers' attention, he said, "I know that Lord Aizen is planning to poison the King."
Explanations:
The Rules of Courtly Love allowed a Knight to express his admiration even for married ladies. Knights begged "tokens" from ladies. And were presented with "favours" such as a veil, ribbon, or the detachable sleeve of a ladies dress. These 'favours' would be displayed by the Knight attached to his arm, his helm or tied to his lance. The lady thereby showed her favour to the knight who would dedicate his performance at the tournament to the lady.
Author's Note:
Speechless! In a good way, that is what I am! Inspired by the story the very talented artist Zelka94 drew an amazing picture. If you not have seen it so far, the link is on my profile.
Thanks again Zelka! I am very proud and more so honored.