Review Time:

Nomnomvore - For now, you'll have to wonder. I have the idea, but now isn't the time to hint at stuff. :)

Brutal Gloom - You raise some good points that I hadn't considered (the matryr angle). Good that you're thinking about something to "oppose" Reio. Keep that thought in mind...

aidansidhe - Not everything can be solved with brutal force right now. It was to teach an example, although I understand if you felt it was excessive. Orihime is one of my favorite characters and I don't like torturing her. :/

Chapter 36 – Pain for Gain

"Good job, Orihime Inoue. Everything should be fine now. Reio-sama and his ilk are pleased."

"…."

After that nearly-traumatizing event, Orihime (dressed again) was in no mood to speak. Her head was down, as she followed Shutara out, with Uryu and Chad walking behind her. The former sensed Tatsuki's rage behind him, so he tried to diffuse the situation:

"Was that…..totally necessary, Shutara-san? It seemed excessive."

"In a sense, it was, but one cannot hold back when it comes to these….overzealous types. I apologize if it's inconvenienced you."

"Un-" Tatsuki's string of curses was halted by Nemu clamping her hand over her mouth. "Hmphph!"

"Unfortunately, the task isn't fully complete until we know we've routed out all of the worshippers."

Chad looked to Orihime. "Are…are you saying we have to do this again?" The mere mention made Orihime tremble ever so slightly.

"Depends on what Reio-sama wishes. At any rate, you folks are excused. Tata." Shutara took her exit, just as the group stepped outside to the cool Seireitei air. Orihime mumbled out a weak "see you" and headed in the opposite direction.

"Umm….I need to talk to Tatsuki-san. Is that alright, Uryu-san? Sado-san?"

"Ok."

"If you insist, Nemu-san…."

The second they were gone, Tatsuki smacked Nemu's hand away with a snarl. "Talk to me about what?! They humiliated Orihime just to make a point!"

"Yes, and it was a step too far, in my opinion. What should we do?"

"….hng….she's not doing that again, EVER. Those royal bastards have some nerve! If we tell everyone, then it won't happen!"

"But-"

"Nemu, Ichigo's gonna lose his damn mind once he finds out. And Yachiru? She'll be ready to punch something."

Nemu shook her head. "On the night of our party for Yoruichi-san? We shouldn't discuss this to the club right now."

"Oh, so you want everyone to wonder why Orihime keeps sulking?" Tatsuki countered. "The NSWA fights back together! When one member is hurt, everyone is hurt."

"I think we should ask Orihime-san on what she wants to do."

"No! I'm not letting this slide!" She was ready to act but Nemu grabbed her arm.

"Did you forget what she was telling you? You would only end up in Reio-sama's attention the more you speak out against this!"

Tatsuki raised her hand, pointing to the mark. "He hasn't trusted me from the start. I would've told them all to go to hell if I had the chance."

"…."

"What's happening to this place, Nemu? It's only been two days and already we're being treated like prisoners. Don't tell me I'm the only one who feels this way."

"…..no," she whispered. "If you ask me, this was a long time coming."

"Huh?"

"Can't you tell, from the orders on the pillars to dividing us by status just to mark our foreheads? Reio-sama and the Royal Family want to reinforce their control over us Shinigami. Aizen's plan almost brought end to everyone, and the SSS's departure has only reminded them of the betrayal."

"So what? We get to a point where we get too afraid to speak out if we don't like something?"

"Currently, it is a bargaining game for Reio-sama."

Tatsuki and Nemu turned: a certain bandaged asauchi was standing there.

"Tsumiko…?"

She nodded. "If you show him you are willing to listen and obey, then he will ease in time. If you show him the opposite, you will only hurt the reputation of the rest of you."

"…"

"After Sosuke Aizen, he trusts no Shinigami but the Royal Guard. The trust must be relearned. The system has existed for millennia. It cannot crumble now."

"….."

Tsumiko looked towards the "education" center. "I am sorry Orihime Inoue had to learn this fact the hard way, but the rest of the NSWA shouldn't."

"We won't forget this," Tatsuki swore. "And I won't forgive them."

"That is your right. The most important thing you Shinigami can do….is be aware."

And with that, she walked off.

"I've been thinking…."

"What? I'm willing to go again but lemme stretch first."

Yoruichi Shihouin and Kisuke Urahara loved "performing together" as much as they loved fighting together, and they were all alone on a beach to "perform" all they wanted.

"It doesn't make any sense to recall the high tier Shinigami at the end of a Soul Society day. And I'm certain nobody leaves in the middle of the night."

"You've been wondering about that, huh? Hyosube was being vague last night. I guess Reio does something to the Living World.

Kisuke wanted to know the "why", "how", and "what". "Funny, he did nothing of a sort before the war."

"People like him? You know they only show off their power to make a point. Obviously this is a way to recondition all of us."

"And you're comfortable with that?"

Yoruichi laughed. "Does the fact that I'm laying here NOT looking for Hollows and talking to you tip you off? Guess being a free spirit for a century does that to you."

"….right. I don't like this either."

"Kisuke, I know you. You're thinking of some plan to stop this, but anything fishy will just get the Soul King on our backs. You're lucky you're mark-less." She pouted, looking up at her "disgraced Shihouin" mark.

"…that's it. Down here….we're expected to patrol. But Reio-sama's affairs lie with the Soul Society. Hmm…."

"No conspiracy-ing on our pre-honeymoon, hotshot."

"Oh that's right! Well, if we're doing this, how will we-"

"-you let Mother handle the details." Yoruichi grinned and moved to kiss his neck. "You'd better keep up, because I won't let you rest."

"Ohohoho if THAT'S how you want to play it…."

XXXXX

Hours later, when the group was heading back to leave, Byakuya raised an eyebrow when he caught a sight of Kisuke's dopey face and shoulder bite marks.

"I see you two have been busy," he remarked drily.

"Don't worry, Byakuya-bo, once Rukia gets Bankai you can take the train to Poundtown yourself."

"I'm going to pretend I didn't hear that, Yoruichi."

Back at the medical center, Kiyone was getting impatient.

"Sis, is this really important?"

"Ssssh. Just relax, Kiyone." Isane was washing and rinsing her sister's hair in a small basin. "Do you want me to give you a massage later?"

"Uhhh….I guess? Why is this part of my treatment?"

For Isane, she was still trying to reinforce the "caring gentle sister" over the "zombie murderous sister". "Well, we're trying to make you get used to a slower life. You had a fever earlier because of withdrawl, but it seems to have passed…"

"….."

"Kiyone?"

"Isane…I just remembered something. Nemu was asking me who gave me the second set of pills…"

"Y-Yes?"

"It was Kageroza….the traitor…."

The realization was quick. "He gave you a potent batch just to distract the Seireitei later?"

"Not that." she bit her lip. "He….he wanted to get access to the 1st's list of zanpakutou. I….I was so desperate I-"

"Kiyone, stop. That's not important. You needed help. What if you didn't have your attack? Who knows how long you would've used!"

"B-But that's probably powering up the Reigai!"

Reigai….oh no….our blood was taken too. I-If….he makes a clone of me…. Isane gulped. "I-It'll be fine, I promise. All of us have gotten stronger."

"…..I'm scared, Isane."

"Don't be. You have your sister, your friends, and even your boyfriend! Look, look!" Kiyone was soon greeted by a rose in her face. "Sentaro left this for you."

"T-That dummy," she replied, blushing. "Kinda brings back memories…"

"What do you mean?"

"You were busy at the 4th that day sis, but I brought roses for Momo after Aizen stabbed her. Rangiku-san had violets, Rukia had carnations, Nanao-san had tulips, and Yachiru had sunflowers."

"You remember that?"

Kiyone cracked a smile. "Like I'd forget our times at the club! Remember when we made those calendars of Yoruichi-san? Or when we made a pool at Kuchiki Manor?"

"Of course I do…thanks, by the way."

"For what?"

Isane put the wet cloth down. "You were the one that goaded me to join the club after all. I don't know what my life would be like without it, but it'd be a lot less interesting…"

"Aww! You're my sister, Isane! Together forever, that's our motto!"

She giggled. "That's your motto. I don't remember saying that!"

"Hey hey, I have a neat idea! Since the club is the reason why we both have boyfriends…how about a…um a…"

"Kiyone Kotetsu, are you asking me to double date with you?" Isane smiled back. "That sounds like fun."

For a second, the malicious zombie overlaid her face, but Kiyone blinked and it disappeared. Yeah. It does.

With the evening settling down, the work for the day was finished. Lessons at the academy were postponed for the following morning, which meant the students were dismissed. This meant three souls were trying to race out of there.

"C'mon sis! We need to see Rukia!"

"She's probably at that Byakuya's house!"

Then you had Sakumo. Oh, I hope Nemu finished the banner….

"Stop!" Hasuka said, holding up a sign. They had almost gotten past the front gates, but there was still asauchi keeping watch. "You guys are really hyper tonight."

"Can't we leave and come back tomorrow?" Homura asked. "We're technically Shinigami!"

"Shinigami in training. All of you don't have a zanpakutou!" Nimaiya appeared next to her. "Oh, Master!"

"Can't just have you guys running around the place. But if you live with someone in the system, then it's not a big deal."

Shizuku smiled. "We live at Kuchiki Manor! Ask anyone that lives there!"

Nimaiya gestured for Hasuka to investigate. One whistle sound later, she disappeared. Then, he looked to Sakumo, who technically didn't have a home.

"U-Um….with Nemu Kusamiya!"

"Hmmmm….you don't sound so sure."

"She's with me," said Kenpachi who had overheard the two of them talking. "Happy?"

"Yeah, whatever homie. Come back next morning, ya hear?"

"It's all I can do," he replied, dragging Sakumo away by the hand.

XXXXXX

"T-Thank you, Kenpachi-san."

"Don't start buttering me up, woman. I don't give a crap about you until Yachiru does. So don't start annoying me or her." he walked away, managing to avoid hitting the wall this time.

"….." Sakumo looked around. She didn't have flash-step yet, and a physical walk from one side of Seireitei to the other took multiple days. "…..aw crap. Nemu!"

"We're home!" an exhausted Ichigo announced, kicking off his sandals. If it was possible, he wanted to avoid writing a damned report. Isshin and Kukaku came in behind him.

"So son, how many Hollows did you defeat?"

"I don't remember, Dad."

"That's talk for not that many! Hahahaha! What about you, my niece?"

Kukaku smirked. "Well, it was-"

"ICHI-NII!"

Ichigo blinked. His sisters ran into the foyer, both equally upset. "What the….Karin, Yuzu, why the hell are you two wearing regular Shinigami uniforms?"

"You two graduated?!" Isshin whooped.

"That's not important right now, Dad." Karin pointed a finger. "We got your note. Apparently you found Mom's reincarnation?!"

"WHAT?!" Ganju shouted, who had just entered. "You found Aunt Masaki?!"

"When that Arturo guy attacked Karakura Town! I didn't hide it for months or something! I had to let you guys know eventually, right?"

Isshin punched his head. "No note for your father?"

Kukaku punched his head (with the metal arm) "And nothing for me?"

"OW! I was worrying about this Living World crap, okay?! I told Mizuiro to keep an eye on her."

"Tomorrow we gotta find her ourselves, Uncle!"

"Wait a second!" Yuzu gasped. "We d-don't have Bankai! How are we supposed to see her?"

Ichigo hadn't thought of that problem. "Uh….maybe a pict-"

"No pictures!" Karin snapped. "You have to convince that bearded guy that we can go to Karakura! She's our mother too, remember?"

"Karin…..she's a new soul now. She's not gonna remember any of us."

"You didn't ask her, did you? Hell, did you even introduce yourself?"

"Can she see you, brother?"

"Does she still look as beautiful as the day I met her?"

"She's four years old, Dad."

"I'm home."

The Kurosaki-Shiba family looked to the door, where a visibly depressed Orihime had come in. She removed her sandals and walked right past them, up the stairs.

"Orihime….? What's up with her?"

Isshin, Kukaku, Ganju, Karin, and Yuzu all glared at him.

"What?"

"ASK HER!" they shouted, shoving him up the stairs.

XXXXX

KNOCK KNOCK

"I'm not hungry, Yuzu-chan."

"Hime, it's me." Ichigo slid open the door. "Are you okay?"

"…..no," she murmured, hugging her pillow. "Come closer and I'll tell you."

"…" Ichigo sat down next to her.

"This God problem was worse than I thought. People from Rukongai came all this way just to see me. And now they probably hate my guts."

"What? How did-"

Orihime interjected with "-they saw me submit to Reio-sama and the Royal Family. I should've known he would known…"

"Submit? What do you mean?"

"I…..d-disrobed and did dogeza."

"Disrobed? Like…..in your underwear?!"

"No," Orihime whispered. "More than that."

"….."

"Ichigo, wait. I…didn't know what else to do. If I….said no, it would make the whole thing worse. Reio-sama would think I'm defiant and those people would only see me as being more powerful. I just…wanted it to stop." her voice cracked on the last word. And she couldn't help it.

She cried in her hands.

Ichigo, on the other hand, was visibly shaking. "They made you….do that….?!"

"Tatsuki-chan was mad too!"

"What?! She saw this?!"

"Shutara-san had summoned her, Uryu, Chad, and Nemu-san. They were the apostles, remember? You and Yachiru-chan would've been called too if you-"

"That doesn't make it okay!" he stood up. "Making you strip? He's got a grudge against you, Orihime."

She sniffled and wiped her nose. "I don't want him to get angry at me…"

"But you didn't call yourself a God, those people did! If it's such a big deal, he should've punished them and not you!"

"…..yeah….but who knows if there's more people that believe in me, out there? What if…I have to do this again?"

"You're not-"

"Ichigo." she got up and took his hand. "I'm glad you and everyone else cares about me so much. But….we've both got things to worry about. I don't want to stress you out."

"Your pain is mine," he replied. "Remember? The day we were in your room….talking about Tatsuki's death?"

Outside of the room, Tatsuki had froze. She listened in.

"I know. And if there's anyone that can make feel better, it's you. But the more this issue becomes a problem, the more….this God business can't escape me."

"At the cost of your dignity?"

"Better that than my life," she whispered.

"I hope Tatsuki didn't sock someone and get in trouble." Ichigo shook his head. "Because I definitely would've."

"She covered me up at first, but once she saw the problem….she stripped and did dogeza too."

"What? Really?"

"Yep. She really is my best friend in the whole world. I wouldn't trade her for anyone."

Tatsuki smiled, but it was a bittersweet one. Yeah, we'll always be friends, Hime. Nothing more.

You're never going to tell her, aren't you?

Hell no. Now if you'll excuse me, I've got a party to get ready for.

Tatsuki….

Really….I'm fine. I promise.

"It's complete!" Kirio announced joyfully. "All of them are done!"

"What?" Nozomi stifled a yawn. "The device Hiyori-san made?"

On the table there was dozens and dozens of what was dubbed "the Zan Sword", the blade to which any Shingami to stab through themselves and release the spirit within.

"Woooow…." Kon blinked. "Hang on, wouldn't that be pretty chaotic, letting all of those zanpakutou spirits run wild?"

"Hahahaha…..I'm certainly not going to give them to everyone at once." Kirio removed her goggles. "But this way, we have a way to combat the Reigai."

"Fascinating….fighting fire with the oxygen that makes it…."

"Hey, what's that thing?" Kon pointed to the other invention Hiyori made.

"That? This should provide a way to fix our population problem…."

"Our what?"

"N-Nothing." Kirio picked up one of the blades. "I have to show this to the Royal Guard. Thanks for the help, you two. You'll make great lab assistants!"

When they headed out, they bumped into Hiyori.

"Kirio-san….whatcha doing with that?"

"I finished the model, Hiyori-chan. It's ready for personal use!"

"…they helped you?" Hiyori pouted, ever so slightly. "Kirio-saaaaan. You better not finish the other thing without my help."

"Oh of course, Hiyori-chan."

"Anyways, I want you to come over later. I'm gonna make you something. Baldy Shinji will be there, so you can whack him if you get bored."

"Geez, Hiyori, you're acting like a housewife!" Kon laughed. "But you're anything b-" she punched him into the wall.

"Sounds great! I'll be there."

"You sure?"

"Yes, I will."

Hiyori nodded. "Okay. See you later then." Once the mother-daughter pair were gone, Nozomi picked Kon up.

"Owww…..her punches hurt more than Nee-san's….."

"Kon, do you mind hanging out with someone else for a little bit? There's a NSWA event I…don't want to miss. We can meet up after."

"Oh sure. Uhhh…." the mod-soul rubbed his chin. "who isn't crazy and/or willing to hurt me?"

"It looks perfect, Nemu-san."

"Yes…."

Nanao turned to face her. She and Nemu were currently the (first and only) ones in the clubroom. "Something weighing you down?"

Nemu picked the short-term issue. "Yachiru thinks her mother, Sakumo, made this. It was the only way she would be permitted to join the club."

"I see. Are you going to tell her?"

"….I don't know. Perhaps if Sakumo is serious about trying to be Yachiru's friend, then it won't be a problem. I just feel guilty about withholding the truth."

"Hmmmm. Yes, it is a conundrum."

"WHOA!"

Yachiru had entered, and her eyes saw the mural Isane and Kiyone made the night before. It was an upgraded version of the first one – and it included all of the members from Yachiru to Senna, Nozomi, and Xen. The looks on their painted faces filled the president's heart with joy and elation.

"Yachiru….you're early."

"This is amazing!" she exclaiming, running over to examine it. "And it's Blondie's work, I can tell! She made it for the club?!"

"Yes, she and her sister," Nanao smiled. "I've gotten all of the supplies you asked for, President."

"And the banner was completed on time," Nemu added. However, once Yachiru's brown eyes looked at it, she looked puzzled.

"….?"

"It's not as wonderful as the mural but-"

"Raggy didn't make this," she said.

Nemu was stunned. "Why….do you think that? This would be the first time you've seen her skills, Yachiru."

Yachiru shook her head. "This looks too good to be something she made."

"But perhaps she was an art prodigy in Rukongai."

"Nope. I need my art expert."

XXXXX

Rukia stepped back. "Yachiru's right. This looks too polished for a newbie. In fact…." she squinted. "Nemu, you made this, didn't you?"

"….."

"Nemu-chan?"

Nemu bit her lip. At that, Yachiru gasped.

"Oh my…." Nanao turned to Rukia. "Er, get the others, please. We…we should get this party started! Hahaha….ha…."

"S-Sure. Oh….m-may I bring some guests? One's technically a boy but-"

"Go ahead, Ruki-Ruki," Yachiru said. "I need to have a talk with Nemu-chan."

"I'll give you two some privacy."

"W-Wait! Nanao….!"

Yachiru grabbed Nemu so that she was looking back down at her. "Why, Nemu-chan? You work hard enough and you're a veteran. You didn't have to make it!"

"Sakumo….said she couldn't draw."

"…well she can't be my mommy then, because I can. So that's that."

"Drawing skill isn't hereditary, Yachiru. She begged me for help."

"Why help her? She probably mixed up your name and called you Kurotsuchi or something. You don't really think she's related to me, do you?"

Nemu sighed. "We can easily run a blood test. But I told her to try to be your friend before your mother."

"….I don't want her to be my mother."

"But why? You heard her. She apologized for what she said. Do you think she's going to take you away from the club?"

Yachiru's expression was neutral. "I won't let her. And Ken-chan is still the one that raised me."

"And she'll never take that away from you."

"….Nemu-chan, mommies are supposed to always care for their kids."

"…..?"

"They're always supposed to be there for you. Like Ichi and his mom. She….she wasn't."

Does….does she feel betrayed over what happened? Sakumo was taken away by rogues and it was only luck that Kenpachi-san found her. She didn't *choose* to abandon her but….

"….this is a unique opportunity, Yachiru. Many of us in the club either don't have a mother or our mother has passed on. You were lucky."

"I'd rather have all of you than Raggy," she whispered. "Even a thousand Raggies wouldn't be the same as just you."

"You can have both, Yachiru. You don't have to choose between one or the other."

"…."

"Y-Yachiru….."

Her tears were dripping down, onto the floor. "Are you sure? Because if I didn't have you girls….I dunno what I'd do."

"Yes."

"I know you girls won't ever leave me. ….who said Raggy won't do the same, again?"

Nemu leaned down and hugged Yachiru. "If she's part of the club, then she can prove she won't."

"…..I still don't want to call her Mommy, Nemu-chan. Not until I know."

"Yes. I understand."

Meanwhile, Rurichiyo was waiting anxiously by the special hot spring at the medical center. She gasped when her two servants arose from the water, out of breath.

"It…it worked?!"

"Sure did." Kirinji smirked. "You know there's no reason for them to follow you now, Kasumioji."

"Who cares?! Kenryu! Enryu!"

The two servants looked up and saw their lady. "R-Rurichiyo-sama!" they swam as fast as they could to the ledge, rising to hug her.

"All of your wounds are closed up…" she frowned. "Aside from those scars….oh, it's a miracle you didn't end up like that Akon fellow…"

"Rurichiyo-sama!" Kenryu bowed his head to the tiled floor, as did Enryu. "Forgive these weak servants for not protecting you during the raid! That bastard, Ganryu-"

"Save it. I'm safe now, and so are you." She handed back Enryu's sunglasses. "There's a lot to catch up on, boys."

"What….milady, what's that mark on your forehead?"

Rurichiyo winced. "That's….part of the story. As of now, I'm just a regular Shinigami, like the rest of you. …technically, you're no longer my servants."

"….." Enryu looked to his partner.

"….no offense, Rurichiyo-sama, but we have to refuse that command. We've protected you for years, and we won't stop just because there's a new guard."

"Are you sure?"

"We don't know anything else. Besides…your clan abandoned yet. They left you to die! ….your parents would be spinning in their graves. ….We have to correct them."

"…"

Kirinji picked his ear. "Okay, wrap this up. If you're not sick and you weren't part of the 4th, you can't stay here."

"Yes, thank you." Rurichiyo bowed in his direction. "Come along, boys. We….we should pay our respects to the fallen Kasumioji compound. As of a few days ago, it's just ash."

"….!"

"So these two really do live here?" Hasuka asked Byakuya.

"Yes. I have taken them in."

"Kay!" She checked off a form she had. "But they still have to report back to the academy in the morning."

"Understood."

"…I hate to say this, but this space….." Hasuka gestured all around. "….soon, it won't be so big. You're part of a disgraced noble house. Reio-sama won't allow you live in luxury."

"If that is the price to pay, then I accept. Is there anything else you need?" the Kuchiki head was in the middle of writing his report.

"Nope! Have a good night!"

"Mm-hmm."

She quickly left, and Rukia came in her place. "Byakuya? Welcome back."

"Thank you."

"I was going to go to a party for Yoruichi-san's wedding, if you need me. With Shizuku and Homura."

"Certainly. After this, I'll probably have a cup of tea with Grandfather, then spar with Renji."

"Spar with…..?" Rukia rubbed her eyes. "That's a shock."

"It'll be beneficial for the both of us," he replied.

"…..well, I hope to join you both on the daily missions. Just a little longer, and I'll be able to show off my Bankai as well. Sode no Shirayuki has been very accomdating."

"Excellent." Byakuya nodded in approval. "Perhaps you can aid in the search as well."

"Search for what?"

"You told me Ichigo Kurosaki found the reincarnation of his mother, Masaki Kurosaki. By the same token of logic, we could find the reincarnations of Kaien and Miyako Shiba."

"You're..you're right! They all would be four years old now….but, what of Hisana's reincarnation?"

Byakuya was silent for a few moments. "In all my years, I didn't consider it. Most likely because I thought it to be a worthless endeavor. Of all the souls in the Living World, the odds are stacked against my favor."

"But since Ichigo found his…."

Would it complicate things? Would I just be digging back into the grief I had moved on from? The new soul would be a middle-aged adult right now….easier to blend into the crowd.

He tapped his pen. "It is something to consider. But for now, let us concentrate on matters here. I would be very interested to see your Bankai, Rukia."

"I know you would," she smirked.

"…" Byakuya got up from his desk, and certainly surprised Rukia when he placed a tender kiss on her lips. She pulled him closer after a second. I have her. I may have lost my pride, but she is all I need now.

"Ugh….."

"Momo, you look terrible," Toshiro said. They were writing their reports before Momo went off to the party. "Maybe I should monitor you tomorrow."

"No, I can handle it. Tobiume and I have been working on Bankai for years! Besides, what good would I be if I give in after two days?"

"It's okay to ask for help..."

"…yeah…" But she felt a little ashamed to do it.

"Yo yo!" Gin walked in, smiling. "Felt great to stretch my wings and hunt some nasty Hollows. You guys finish your reports?"

"You couldn't possibly have finished it that quick!" the white-haired ex-captain said. "Finish it properly, Ichimaru!"

"Jealous, Captain?" Rangiku walked in, smiling. "Come on, Hinamori, finish so we can go to the party!"

"No fair! Me and Toshiro should have our own party!"

"No thanks," came the deadpan reply. "Can't you see she's a little winded, Matsumoto? These solo missions are a little out of her element."

"Really? Hmmm…..well, then you talk to Captain Unohana or someone."

"Yeah." Momo yawned. "In fact, I'll write it down in my report. No sense in hiding it."

Speaking of reports, the Royal Guard members were meeting in the chamber. Shutara slid over the reports from yesterday to Ichibe.

"They've carried over their Captain talents well, but some could use refinements in their tallying. Look at Madarame's handwriting, it's hideous."

"Hahaha, you're such a perfectionist, Shutara. ….hm?" Ichibe saw her post-it. "Yachiru Kusajishi didn't submit anything?"

"No. She is a child, granted, but she should whip into line. I'll give her time to do it."

"Okay…."

Now all five were seated.

"Academy's doin' well. But if you ask me, the new Shinigami need actual practice against Hollows."

"That won't be an issue," Ichibe assured. "After all, construction can't happen forever! Shutara, how goes the tallying?"

In one of her other hands were the lists from the former seated Shinigami that went off to the Rukongai. "I believe all of the districts are counted for. We have the list of the souls that have accepted to become Shinigami, and the rest that have refused. I'll bring them to Reio-sama tomorrow."

"Good, good. And you, Kirio? Got any news?"

The pink-haired woman placed the blade on the table. "Thanks to the efforts of my former vice-captain, I have finished a device that allows the user to separate their zanpakutou spirit from their bodies."

"Excellent. The zanpakutou must be conditioned as well." Shutara examined the tool. "However, that will be a trickier task than conditioning the Shinigami."

"Well, I don't want them to be all out at once."

"You're right. Proper screening measures will be in order. Good work, Hikifune."

"Got any other projects?" Kirinji asked, leaning back.

"W-Well….how did the morning physical go?"

The Yankee slammed the reports down onto the table. "Summaries of all female Shinigami. Only 15% or so can't conceive. Tomorrow the men are next."

Kirio gulped ever so quietly. "T-The invention here…." she placed it down. "….is intended for a…same sex situation."

"Marvelous!" Shutara was impressed. "That will avoid a lot of complications."

"It isn't ready yet, though. I've been focusing on the zanpakutou invention first. Nozomi Kujo and Kon have been assisting me thoroughly."

"The artificial souls?"

"Yes. What do you have there, Shutara?"

"The new uniforms for Reio-sama's subjects. I'll only need one more day to finalize the design, and once I'm aware of the amount of Shinigami, I'll start producing for all."

"You guys are doing well!" Ichibe grinned. "I think that's all for today."

"Wait."

"Hm? You have a question, Nimaiya?"

"…..these folks aren't stupid. Sooner or later, they'll be able to pierce together what's going on. You think 20+ Bankai users don't question how the world is handled when the day is done?"

"And even the simplest mind can realize why all of the females then all the males have to get a physical," Kirio added. "I….I'm feeling a tad guilty about all of this."

"They lost the right to have it their way," Kirinji said. "And you guys know Reio-sama's word is the law."

"All of these measures are precautions to ensure the safety of all of the worlds for the future. If they do well and exceed Reio-sama's expectations, then they will earn back more. Simple as that." Shutara folded her arms.

"They speak the truth, you two. I know we have some brilliant minds in our midst, but you can't treat anyone like an ally until they prove they're not an enemy. Anything else?"

Silence.

"Great! Dismissed!"

The news of a "party" being held on Sokyoku Hill attracted the attention of one fiery asauchi. Mera reached the top of the stairs leading up the base and saw the clubhouse.

"Hehehe….no one followed me here. Time to see for myself!"

"Fufufufu, Mera, you're terrible at being discreet."

"GAH?!" she fell down but got right back up. "Don't spy on me, Tokie! Why are YOU here? Don't you have a job to do?"

"I wanted to see this so-called party myself. With those Shinigami girls."

"Hey, no fair! Copycats!" Nonomi was behind them. "This was MY idea first!"

"N-Nonomi?!"

"You girls are mean!" shouted Hasuka, who flashed in next to Tokie. "I was gonna investigate this party first! I called dibs!"

"When?" Tokie looked amused. "You're always the last to do things, Hasuka."

"Yeah, you're too slow!" Mera mocked.

"Why are you girls on Sokyoku Hill?" asked Tsumiko, who appeared before them. They all jumped and spun around to look at her ever-neutral expression. "And why did you take my idea?"

"Okay okay!" the mohawked asauchi rubbed her temples. "So we're ALL here to check out this party for the SNWA-"

"NSWA."

"-the club we warned. What's our endgame, here? 'Cause I just wanted some cake."

"…we could join and get more parties," Hasuka suggested.

"But we would have a conflict of interest with our own duties."

"It's not like we're doing anything wrong, Tsumiko," said Nonomi. "Master would be fine with it."

"….."

Two seconds later, they were all running past each other to get to the door.

XXXXX

"Ah!"

The door opened up, knocking an unlucky Loly to the floor. The girls scrambled past Candice, Ururu, and more before they reached Yachiru.

"Oh hi! You're those girls!"

"Yeah yeah, listen. Are you taking any new members?"

"What?" Nanao frowned. "Well, this is slightly unconventional – taking asauchi – but-"

"Always!" Yachiru's happiness was returning. "You're just in time for our party for Boobies!"

They all looked to Rangiku.

"Not her!"

Then to Meninas.

"No, no! Don't you girls know who Boobies is?!"

Blank stares.

"Man! So many newbies, not enough time….oh, there she is!"

XXXXXX

"We're here!" Rukia stepped forward. "Are you ready?"

"…..what is this again? I thought we were going to spend some time at home, Rukia."

"Huh? I told you, it's a party for my friend. Usually it's a girls-only affair, but I managed to get the both of you involved. You'll be able to meet all of my Gotei friends!"

But Shizuku and Homura didn't want to share the attention, especially after a long, boring day at the academy. "Do we have to?"

"What? N-No, but-"

"Then let's bail," Homura suggested. "We can play hide and seek!"

"Yeah!"

"But I wanted to do this…..can't you stay for five minutes?"

"Nah," they said together. This made Rukia a little peeved.

"I'm not staying home just because you guys want to. They're my friends too."

"What? Then, then….we'll go home without you! If that's how you really feel!" the two turned and ran back, passing by Retsu, who had found and brought Sakumo.

"Wait!"

"Rukia, those are the Rukon children you befriended, yes? Do you want me to talk to them?"

Rukia sighed. "No. Just…just bring them back to Byakuya, please."

Grimmjow pushed his way through the double doors, sitting down next to Ikkaku. "You bozos getting annoyed with this crap too, huh?"

The bald man was writing his report, but he was barely getting anywhere. "Yeah. I can't even enjoy the fights."

"You picking fights with Ichigo again?" Yumichika asked.

"Oh bite me." the ex-Espada growled. "At least Aizen didn't make us write down what happened like we're fucking kids writing a story."

The server asauchi (replacing the Shinigami) all tensed up upon hearing the name.

"You know, I don't think you really have Bankai."

Grimmjow grabbed Ikkaku by the jaw. "You want me to kill you with it?"

"Grimmjow, can we go one day – one! – without you being a raging maniac?" Stark asked, about to go asleep from his long day. "Just drink and shut up."

"Tch." he snatched a drink from a passing tray. "So, Lilinette find out your little secret?"

Kira, who was sitting next to Stark, winced. "She…found me."

"Pffftahahahahaha! Aw man, I wish I was there. Or not. Did she find you with his dick in your mouth?"

"Grimmjow, shut up before I stab you in the dick," Ikkaku snarled. "I'm finishing this fucking thing so I can get drunk. Eh?"

He saw Hanataro sitting by himself, sipping some water while reading something.

"Yo Yamada! Come sit with us!" he called out. But the group saw that the boy was….visibly shaken up. He sat down next to Yumichika.

"…hello," he mumbled out.

"What's with you?" Grimmjow demanded. "And why in the name of loving fuck are you drinking water? It's a bar."

"….."

"So vulgar." Yumichika rolled his eyes. "If you have something to talk about, we'll listen Hanataro."

"Well…the other night…..I…..l-lost something."

"A tooth?"

"Your self-respect? You didn't have it to begin with."

"Grimmjow, don't be a dick."

"Don't touch one, Stark."

Hanataro passed the paper to Yumichika. When he read it, he had to take a shot. "Well, well. First off, it seems Hanataro enjoyed the finer sex, if you catch my drift."

Ikkaku cheered. "With McAllon, right? We need to get you the finest booze!"

"Not so fast, Ikkaku. The girls had a physical today, and I'm sure you know about the gizmo Akon made."

"…..?"

Yumichika patted Hanataro's back. "He had some strong swimmers."

Silence.

"…."

"…."

"HAHAHAHAHAHA!" Grimmjow was laughing so hard, tears were coming out of his eyes. He fell out of his chair as the realization set in for the rest of the table.

"Well….congrats, then." Stark and Kira raised their glasses. Just then, Iba came in, and sat down next to Kira. His sunglasses were off.

"Iba? What's eating you?" Ikkaku asked, nearly screaming when he spilled some booze on the paper.

"Just uh….got back from the 4th." he paused to order a drink….several of them. "Ma died."

Now that all of the NSWA members had gained, the party was underway: Yachiru had placed party hats on everyone while Nanao served the cake. Several of the girls were admiring the work of the Kotetsu sisters.

"Aww….I wish someone else made this cake," Rangiku pouted. "Momo or Yuzu-chan are much better bakers."

"I had little notice, Rangiku." Nanao said. "President, would you like to say a few words?"

"Oh yeah!" Yachiru bounced to the front. "Girls…let's give a big around of applause for Isa-chan and Blondie! The new mural looks amazing!"

Both sisters blushed and smiled when they did.

"And this party's for our future! We've been through some tough times recently….but I wanted you all to know…all of you mean a lot to me. And…it means a lot that you're sticking by me, even now."

Sakumo noticed her daughter's expression faltered, but only for a second.

"We've made so many new members in just a week! Raggy over there-" unlike before, the nickname wasn't meant maliciously- "is number 36! And these girls are 37, 38, 39, 40, and 41! Hooray!"

Everyone clapped.

"….actually, wait. I want to change that. Raggy's number 38, and we're up to 43." Yachiru looked to the Femritters. "Number 36 and 37 will be saved for Gigi and Bambi. For their memory."

"Who is….?" Sakumo began to ask, but Nemu's head shake told her to ask later.

"May the number get higher and higher!" Yachiru raised her cup. "Let's look to the future, girls!"

"Here here!" the room's unanimous declaration said. Candice, Liltotto, and Meninas had to take a moment to wipe their eyes.

"Oooh! Does someone have a camera?"

Ururu raised her hand. "Shall we take a picture?"

"You bet! Everyone get in for the group shot! Come on, come on!"

Everyone huddled together; the shorter members like Yuzu, Hiyori, Ururu, and Yachiru were huddled below, with the taller members like Harribel, Isane, and Kukaku standing tall. The president took the camera and held it out.

"Say cheese, everyone! We've got to look bright and happy for Boobies' wedding!"

"Cheese!"

"Cheese!"

Yachiru froze. The two voices certainly belonged to the two dead girls in her illusions, but they faded as soon as they turned their head. They weren't goading or mocking her.

"Cheese!"

CLICK

They were part of the memory. Part of the celebration. Even if they were still gone and would only appear in Yachiru's mind.

Sometimes, that's all you need.

FIN

Ending notes: I almost teared up writing the Yachiru-Nemu scene. The former's therapy isn't done, but we've gotten somewhere. If you'll remember, Kiyone in her scene was referring to scenes in SWA chapter 2, and a flashback in chapter...47, I think. I enjoy me some callbacks.

Next Time - more therapy for Yachiru and anger management for Grimmjow. Plus other stuff.