AN: Hey everyone, I hope you're all doing well. First, SORRY for the LONG Author's Note. After reading through the recent reviews I suppose I should help clarify some things.
1. Romance aspect. You'll find that there is a heavy emphasis on the romance between Kishin x Rukia for the CURRENT ARC in the story. The main reason is because just like in Canon, the Soul Society arc is heavily influenced around Rukia. She was the main driver for the plot in the Soul Society arc. She's the reason why Ichigo and the others stormed the Soul Society in the first place. While things may slightly differ this time than in Canon, it remains that she is still a large driver for our MC in the current arc. Kishin is still fleshing out his understanding and feelings towards Rukia. He is taking in the experience he has with his feelings of love for her because back when he unlocked the power of his Shikai, he fought his inner demons to control his power. During that time he gained two very important things.
The first was his recognition and acceptance of himself.
The second was the memory of his deepest desire. And that desire was to receive love, something that he never had. Some people who are psychologically damaged in this way and never had something but then receive it later on have a strong sense of possessiveness for the things that they were never granted. At least this is how Kishin was influenced. For Kishin in particular it was love. And so that is why there is a heavy emphasis on Kishin and Rukia's interactions.
AFTER the arc is over the heaviness on their romance will lighten up. That's because Rukia isn't being used as collateral against Kishin and his actions in the future. It is also because Kishin and Rukia would have then solidified what their relationship is like so there won't need to be as much build up of growing their closeness with each other in the later arcs. Aside from the above details there are also plot driving factors that align with the actions and characteristics of certain personality traits of the characters. For instance, Aizen being the main obstacle. Read point #2 for a more detailed explanation.
2. The main reason why Kishin hasn't made any serious moves against Aizen is because he understands just how powerful Aizen is. On top of that he respects Aizen's intellect. The fact that Aizen knows about Kishin means that Kishin also knows that Aizen would suspect him should Aizen's plans derail from his original calculations. He didn't want to risk Rukia's safety in favor of testing Aizen's limits due to his interference. At least not until Rukia was safely within his sphere of reach again. Now that Rukia is back within his reach he will start thinking of how to throw a small wrench in Aizen's plans.
Also, Kishin's best plan really is to strengthen himself as much as possible since he's the only one not under Kyoka Suigetsu's effect. At the end of the day, no matter how much he plans and tries to play tricks or games they are meaningless in the face of Aizen who can make the entire Gotei 13 see whatever he wants. The thing he is hesitant of the most is that he does something, Aizen suspects him, and then Aizen creates a huge scandal that makes things even worse for him or for Toshiro, or Kinji, or Yushiro, or Jushiro, or Rukia. That is why he's patiently biding his time by growing his own strength before trying to create any waves.
So it's not that he doesn't have ideas, but rather he knows things will possibly turn worst for him. He takes his queue from looking at what happened to Urahara and the Visored. At that time Aizen was only a Lieutenant, but he managed to not only trick and get rid of 4 Captains and 4 Lieutenants with ease, but he also got rid of Urahara and Tessai and framed them. What makes the situation even worse for Kishin is that he knows Aizen has already taken over command of Central 46 and so it's not Central 46's words that are law, but it is Aizen's words that are law.
3. I understand that as people continue to read, they'll have certain misgivings when they read a chapter and feel like there isn't any life in it or that the direction of the story won't be unique anymore. I promise that it will, but it's hard to see it when the story isn't yet complete. The direction a chapter takes and the actions characters make have a purpose to the overall story. If it seems like the story is heading towards a strong adherence to Canon, then there's a reason. If the story seems to diverge from Canon, then there's a reason. These details may not be obvious right now, but when placing oneself in the mind of these characters and seeing where the entire story heads, then it'll start to become more obvious.
Anyways, as always, thanks for your continued support!
Vocabulary Terms:
*Baka (Bakamono) = Fool/Idiot
*Onii-sama = Big Brother
*Obasan = Aunt
*Chappy = Most popular soul candy with a cutesy personality and depicted as a bunny.
*Ryoka = Traveling Evil(s)/ outsiders not associated with the Seireitei
Reading the story:
-Scene change: "888"
-Rated M Scene: "XXX"
-Hello, how are you? (Someone in their own thoughts)
-Hello how are you? (Zanpakuto Spirit speaking in a Shinigami's mind)
DISCLAIMER: I do not own Bleach.
Chapter 28
The darkness in the sky over Soul Society had begun to lighten up as the sun started to slowly peek above the horizon. It was currently still and quiet in the Seireitei despite the events that happened yesterday. For most of the division's in Soul Society the matters pertaining to the other day did not truly involve them, therefore they simply carried on their day as if nothing was amiss. As the sun continued to rise into the sky a streak of golden light was able to sneak through the cracks of a window curtain in a semi-dark bedroom casting a warm glow on two sleeping individuals. They were precisely Kishin and Rukia, both completely naked beneath the warm covers of the fluffy blanket snuggled and cuddled in each other's arms.
Kishin was the first to stir awake as he felt the warmth of the sunlight on his shoulder. He was glad that he woke first as he was able to take in the cute sleeping form of Rukia pressed up against his chest. Her steady warm breath tickled his torso and made his heart flutter. A smile found its way to his lips as he simply watched her sleep a little longer. Her arms bent up next to her chest as she slept on her side facing towards him. Her hair was a complete mess, but it only made her look more desirable. Her long lashes accentuated the cuteness of her face making her graceful even when sleeping. The skin on her body was completely smooth and milky feeling like silk that flowed in the wind through one's fingers. Her legs were intertwined with Kishin's locking their bodies in place. It was then he took note of all the marks he had left on her body from their vigorous activities last night.
She had tens of hickeys all over the crook of her neck that travelled down her shoulders and right into the valley of her breasts. A faint handprint could also be seen lining around the base of her neck where he had held her down into the mattress. He didn't move the blanket since he didn't want to disturb her sleep, but he knew that there were definitely more marks that travelled down the rest of her body. Once more his eyes landed over the pressure mark around her neck causing him to grit his teeth in shame. He propped himself up with his elbow, lying on his right side as he gently traced his fingers over the impression.
"I'm sorry Rukia...I thought I was careful…"
He felt guilty at the mark that he left on her because she was so delicate. He didn't want to hurt her, but he realized that he really could have even though he was careful when trying to control his strength. A deep breath escaped his lungs as he dipped down his head to place a soft gentle kiss atop her forehead.
She's so incredibly beautiful.
He bit the bottom of his lip feeling himself turn semi-hard. The feeling of Rukia's soft thighs locked with his own only made him more turned on. Soon after he felt her stir awake.
"Nghhhh…" She moaned out as she slowly began to open her eyes.
"Kishin?" She softly breathed out.
He smirked and brushed away a lock of her fallen hair from her cheeks. "Good morning senpai. Did you sleep okay?"
Rukia grinned and nodded her head. "Mhm. I feel-" She stopped mid-sentence as her cheeks suddenly turned bright red.
Kishin raised his eyebrow questioningly at why she suddenly stopped and asked, "You feel what?"
She simply buried her face into his chest not daring to look him in the eyes feeling completely embarrassed. "I feel your...your...down there…"
"Hm?" He pondered what she was getting at, but then a lightbulb clicked and he smirked in understanding. His erection was pressed up against her stomach which was the cause of her embarrassment. He gently gripped her hand and brought it up to his lips placing a soft wet kiss against it.
"Sorry Rukia. I can't help it. You're too cute."
She blushed at his comment and buried her head further into his chest. "You idiot…"
He smirked and rolled them over pinning her down into the mattress as he hovered above her. His move elicited a playful yelp from Rukia's lips as he laid quick gentle kisses all over her neck and shoulders. Smooching sounds and low moans filled the room for several long moments before Rukia covered his lips with her hand to stop him. She heavily panted trying to catch her breath to quell her building desire.
"Kishin...huff...huff...we can't."
He simply licked her hand that pressed up against his lips before pulling it away and landing a soft kiss against her chin.
"Why not?" He asked seductively.
She shuddered at the sound of his raspy morning voice, but in the end she shook her head. "I'm...huff...I'm still sore."
Kishin immediately stopped what he was doing as the feeling of guilt washed over him once more.
Right...I-I may have been a bit too rough yesterday…
He lowered his head down into the nape of her neck in shame and apologized. "I'm sorry. I got carried away last night. I should have been more careful with you."
"No." She quickly responded.
She gently ran her fingers along his strong muscular back and felt the long red scar lines that ran down his spine caused by her involuntary violent scratching. "I should be the one to apologize. I hurt you."
Kishin shook his head and nuzzled closer into her. "No." He smirked and kissed her cheek. "I love the feeling of your scratches. They make me feel even more alive when I fu-"
Fwip!
She slapped her palm over his lips to prevent him from finishing his sentence. Her cheeks flared up in bright crimson red knowing exactly what he was about to say.
"Ahem. L-Lets just call it even then." She meekly commented.
Kishin bit the bottom of his lip, his eyes still locked on his hand mark on her neck. "Rukia...I could have hurt you."
He traced his fingers over the red line and was about to apologize again, but she cut him off. "It's fine."
He slightly frowned at her response. "It's not fine. I want you to te-"
She cut him off again as she held his face in her hands, forcing him to look her in the eyes. "I said it's fine." Her cheeks turned red as she continued, "I-I know that you would never hurt me. And besides...I kind of liked it…" Her voice turned nearly inaudible towards the end.
Kishin's eyes widened in shock as he kept his golden crystalline eyes locked on her pure violet ones trying to see if she was lying, however there wasn't a trace of a lie in her.
She...She liked it?
An involuntary groan escaped his lips. He was really hard now, but he held back knowing that Rukia was feeling sore. He took a deep breath in before taking a deep breath out. He turned his head to look at the time and noted that it was still incredibly early. He focused his mind on more serious matters to calm down his hard erection and let out a sigh in annoyance knowing that things pertaining to Rukia and Hinamori's punishment would be discussed in even more detail today at a Captains meeting.
"What's wrong?" Rukia asked, noting the irritated facial expression on Kishin's face.
He just kissed the top of her eyelid and rolled out of bed. "Let's get cleaned up senpai. Unfortunately we still have to deal with discussing the details of your punishment."
Rukia's expression became solemn at his reminder. She sat up and bit the bottom of her lip in anxiousness. "Will Hinamori really be executed?"
Kishin noted the conflicted look in her eyes and remained silent electing not to answer.
Now that Rukia is back and within my reach I'll have to think about how to handle Aizen. Toshiro isn't going to sit around and let Hinamori get executed. I just know it. He'll probably try to do something that'll get him in trouble so I can't just sit by and watch him ruin himself. I need to be careful on how I go about helping though…
He simply strode over and pulled the blanket away from Rukia's body.
"Ah! Hey-"
He smirked and cradled her into his arms taking her to the bathroom and into the shower.
"Kishin?" She inquired whilst attempting to cover her naked body with her arms.
Kishin on the other hand just grinned and gently set her down. "Don't cover yourself up in front of me Rukia. I love you. Every part of you. You're completely flawless so there's nothing you have to be embarrassed about with me, okay?"
She blushed at his words but meekly nodded in the end. "O-Okay…"
Soon after the warmth of the water flowed down their bodies completely relaxing their muscles. Rukia winced every now and then when moving around as she still felt sore at her core. Her actions caused Kishin to feel a little guilty, but she continued to scold him for thinking that he hurt her. The longer they showered the more comfortable she started to become being naked in front of him. They helped scrub and wash each other's body to rid each other of the smell of sex. About an hour later they had become presentable once more in their Shinigami shihakusho, albeit a violet colored scarf was wrapped around Rukia's neck to cover up the love marks that Kishin had left on her there.
"Do I look weird?" She curiously asked while touching the scarf.
Kishin simply shook his head. "Nope. It matches your eyes. Besides, your brother wears a scarf all the time. Just cause it's not cold out doesn't mean you can't wear a scarf right?"
Rukia could only agree since she needed to wear the scarf so as not to die of embarrassment from other people asking her about the marks on her neck.
"What now?" She asked.
Kishin walked over to her side and gently patted the top of her head. "You stay here. When we arrived last night two Hell Butterflies informed Central 46 and the other Captains of our return. There should have been another Captains meeting this morning discussing the details pertaining to the status of both you and Hinamori. I had already sent an extra message to Captain Ukitake before I went to retrieve you yesterday to make arrangements for your punishment going forward."
Rukia clenched her hands into fists still feeling worried. Before she could voice any form of objection or questions she was interrupted from a Hell Butterfly entering the room.
"Hm?" Kishin stared expectantly at the butterfly and held out his finger towards it reading the contents within before it flew off into the distance.
"W-What did it say?" Rukia nervously asked.
Kishin looked down at her worried expression and grinned poking her nose. "Everything went according to plan."
She pouted at his action before tilting her head to the side in question. "Which means?"
"Well, originally your punishment was 6 months of house arrest. The problem was where to keep you prisoner."
"Then...was it decided where I would be jailed?"
He nodded his head with a triumphant look. "I told you yesterday didn't I? That you'd be my prisoner. The message I sent Captain Ukitake was to make arrangements for you to be held prisoner in the 13th division barracks until your sentence ends."
"Then...I'll be held in the 13th division prison?"
"Nope. You're going to stay here in my living quarters for the next 6 months."
"EH?" She doubtfully questioned. "That doesn't seem right though does it?"
"Why? Do you want to stay in the 13th division prison?"
"Ah, no! It's not that, but I'm just confused. How can my sentence be that light? At the very least I thought I'd be forced to be confined in a cell."
Kishin just shrugged his shoulders. "Originally yes. And truthfully you are supposed to."
Rukia gave a curious glance at his answer. "Then...why aren't I?"
He smirked and walked out of the bedroom with Rukia following in tow as he answered, "Since you're being held prisoner under the jurisdiction of the 13th division then we have a say as to how you'll be imprisoned. That's why, your prison will be my living quarters where I can keep an eye on you. You aren't allowed to leave the building, but I reckon it's better than being stuck in a cell right?"
Rukia felt a loving warmth invade her heart at how far Kishin was going for her. He came to personally retrieve her in Karakura Town. He prevented Byakuya and Renji from performing the finishing blow on Ichigo because she wanted to save him. He healed Ichigo's wounds because she didn't want Ichigo to die. He held back his rage and anger and didn't kill Renji nor did he fight Byakuya because of her. He reassured her that everything would be fine and gave her a sense of warmth and security. And he even arranged for her imprisonment to be within the 13th division barracks under his supervision in the comfort of his own home. She stared at his back and bit the bottom of her lip. She felt that she didn't truly deserve him, but she didn't think that she would be able to let him go. Her body moved on its own as she walked up behind him wrapping her arms around his waist and burying her head into his back.
"Kishin. What is our relationship?"
Kishin closed his eyes and recalled that they never really announced or made clear what their relationship was. In truth he didn't care because he was able to be with her, but he could tell that she felt a bit confused at this moment and so he turned around in her arms and kissed the tip of her nose.
Muah!
She cutely scrunched up her face and covered her nose. "What was that for?"
He just pinched the sides of her cheeks lightly pulling at them. "What do you want us to be? It doesn't matter to me because I've already given myself to you."
Realization struck her at that moment.
I see...so all this time he was only waiting for me to say something about it.
She stared confidently into his golden colored irises and said, "Then let's date."
Kishin just ruffled her hair. "Okay, then lets date."
A smile formed on both of their lips. Before they could get anymore intimate they were interrupted by the knocking on the door. Kishin let out a sigh and rubbed the back of his neck. Rukia noted his sour look and was about to ask what was wrong when she took note of the reiatsu on the other side of the door.
"Renji?" She questioned, however her facial expression turned a bit serious and nervous in the next moment as she also felt a much much more powerful and familiar presence approach as well. "Onii-sama…"
Knock. Knock. Knock.
"Alright alright. I'm coming." Kishin replied as he opened the door revealing Renji and Byakuya on the other side. He motioned for them to enter the room to which they did.
A complicated look shone in Renji's eyes as he took in Rukia's frame. "Rukia I…"
She just shook her head and gazed at him with an understanding look in her eyes. "It's fine Renji. I know. You were only following orders. I don't blame you for anything."
Renji clenched his hands into fists feeling incredibly guilty.
Byakuya on the other hand remained silent for several minutes just staring at Rukia. While his expression remained indifferent, the look in his eyes were complicated and conflicted. He especially felt curious as to why Rukia wore a scarf. An accessory he rarely ever saw her wearing. As if Rukia knew what Byakuya was staring at she anxiously shifted in place and carefully fixed the scarf around her neck slightly hiking it up a little to cover more of her skin.
Byakuya slightly furrowed his brow, but in the end he decided it wasn't worth his time to mention the article of clothing and instead, turned his attention to Kishin and asked, "What is the meaning of this, Lieutenant Chigetsu?"
Kishin already knew that Byakuya was eventually going to ask about the form of her imprisonment so he simply shrugged his shoulders unconcernedly. "This is where Rukia will be staying for the duration of her punishment. You didn't seriously think that I would throw her in a prison cell did you?"
Renji widened his eyes in shock. "What?! You mean to say that Rukia is going to live HERE in YOUR personal quarters for the next 6 months?! No way! I object! That's not right!"
"Why not?"
"It's not proper!"
"Then what do you want me to do? Throw her in an actual prison cell?"
"That…" Renji couldn't exactly agree to that, but then a thought came to him. "Instead of your quarters why not an empty one? Or another female's quarters!"
Kishin shook his head. "There is no one more suitable than myself, the 13th division Lieutenant, to keep watch over Rukia's sentence."
Renji fiercely shook his head in disagreement. "You've got to be kidding me! I think it's better if Rukia returns to the Kuchiki Manor and remains there for the duration of her sentence."
Kishin just waved his hand in the air dismissing Renji's suggestion. "Everything has already been settled. Rukia will be safe here. I can promise you that."
Renji wanted to continue and refute, but Byakuya interjected, "Very well. We did not come here to change what has already been decided."
Kishin raised his eyebrow in curiosity. "Then why are you here?"
Byakuya gave a quick glance at the surrounding space before turning around and heading for the door. "Renji. Let's go."
Renji clicked his tongue in annoyance but followed behind Byakuya obediently. He gave one last look at Rukia and let out a defeated sigh.
Haaah...in the end she's safe...I guess that's what matters the most...but Rukia, is there really no place left in your heart that loves me instead?
He noted the bright look in her eyes and sighed again. "I'm glad you're okay...Rukia." He then disappeared alongside Byakuya.
Rukia cocked her head to the side as she stared where Byakuya and Renji were just standing. "What...was that about?"
Kishin walked by her side and patted her head, an amused and knowing smile on his face. "Your brother may not show it but...he was secretly relieved that your sentence wasn't serious. On top of that he was silently observing the place to see if it was suitable for your imprisonment."
Rukia gave him a doubtful glance. "Onii-sama did? Are you sure about that?"
Kishin just nodded. "Yeah. Your brother and I may not exactly see eye to eye on most things, but he cares for you. He has his own troubles to think over."
"Own troubles? Like what?"
"He's struggling to find what the right answer is."
"Right answer? Stop speaking in riddles Kishin."
He smirked and ruffled her hair.
Whack!
"Ow!" He groaned rubbing his side as she pouted at his actions. "Fine, don't tell me what you know."
A hissing sound echoed in the air as he sucked in a deep breath whilst massaging his ribcage. "I'll tell you senpai. Don't be mad okay?"
She smirked and walked into the kitchen making some coffee. "If there's something burdening my brother then...I want to help if I can."
Kishin nodded and stood by the kitchen counter sipping the cup of coffee that Rukia handed to him. "Your brother is struggling with the idea of upholding the laws of Soul Society versus acting on what he thinks is right, and fight to protect you from harm."
Rukia furrowed her brow at his answer. "Onii-sama is...he would go against the law for me?"
Kishin shrugged his shoulders. "Can't say for sure. Right now? That'd be hard to judge, but I have a feeling…"
"Hm? A feeling? What kind of feeling?"
"Mmmm...I've got a feeling that maybe sometime in the future Byakuya might have a change of heart and see that the laws aren't as clear cut and infallible as they seem to be."
Rukia raised her eyebrow in suspicion, noticing that Kishin seemed to be hinting at something more than just what her brother was thinking.
Kishin smiled and simply stared in amusement at her expression that was lost in thought. He just watched her for several more minutes before he decided to ask, "Senpai, how would you feel if Renji dies?"
Rukia immediately snapped her head at him and stammered, "W-What are you saying?! Wait...you-you aren't planning to kill Renji are you? Just because I stopped you last night y-"
Kishin waved his hand and quickly interjected, "No, nothing like that." He then ran several different simulations of future outcomes in his head before continuing, "I'm not going to kill Renji or anything, but say…there's a situation where he might die…" He paused and noted the painful look in her eyes as she mulled it over so he sighed and gently patted her head. "Never mind. It was a silly question."
She slightly frowned and stared up at him with a worried look. "Kishin, is there a reason you asked?"
"Maybe…"
"Why?"
"Haaaaah…well, because I don't particularly like him."
She raised her eyebrow in curiosity at his answer still confused. "Errr...but what does that have to do with Renji dying?"
Kishin indifferently shrugged and sipped his cup of coffee. "Nothing really. It's just, if you can cope with his death then I won't have to go out of my way to help him if the time ever comes. That's all."
It took Rukia a good minute to let his words sink in before she stared at him with widened eyes in bafflement.
Whack!
"Ow!" He let out whilst rubbing his head.
Rukia crossed her arms and stared disapprovingly at his behavior. "Kishin, that's practically no different than saying you want to kill Renji."
He smirked and replied, "Ehhhh…well there's a slight difference."
Whack!
"Ow!" He replied once more, rubbing his head. "Alright alright. Don't be upset senpai. I get it. Renji is your childhood friend and even though he's made some questionable choices like attacking you before, it remains that you care about his well-being."
Rukia raised her eyebrow at him wondering where he was going with this. "Go on."
He smirked and sipped his coffee again. "Fine. I will reluctantly keep an eye on him IF I happen to be around."
Rukia glared at him for a bit before letting out a long sigh in confusion. "Kishin, what's going on exactly?"
For a moment he didn't answer and simply stared down at his cup of coffee.
"Kishin?"
He smiled at her confusion and quickly finished his coffee before heading for the door.
"Where are you going?" Rukia quickly asked still completely confused and feeling a bit sad that he was leaving.
"Don't worry senpai. I've got some things to do today. The Hell Butterfly from earlier informed me of Hinamori's situation. She's currently being held in the 1st division's prison cell and will be executed by the Sokyoku in 25 days."
Rukia jolted with a panicked look on her face. "But-"
Kishin cut her off and gave her a look of reassurance. "Just trust me senpai. I'll figure something out okay?"
She could only bite her tongue and nodded. "Sorry for the trouble. If it wasn't for me and not doing my job well then none of this would have hap-"
"Rukia!" His loud shout startled and cut her off. "Look at me." He commanded.
As their eyes met his gaze softened. "It's not your fault senpai." The image of Aizen appeared in his head as he said more encouragingly. "Seriously. It's really not your fault. There's more to the situation than you think."
Rukia furrowed her brow and vaguely recalled something from yesterday. "Wait...does this have anything to do with the strange conversation you were having with Urahara-san?"
Kishin smirked and opened the door. "Yeah. Just leave things to me."
He then closed the door behind him and dashed off into the distance leaving a semi-bewildered Rukia behind.
FWISH!
As he dashed through the Seireitei he headed in the direction of the 2nd division.
I've got no choice but to involve myself now. I can't let Toshiro ruin himself over Hinamori's sentence. The question is how do I go about this? Now that Rukia is safely back within my reach and Aizen is making large moves to obtain the Hogyoku, it'll be in my best interest to move in a way where I let Aizen expose his true colors to the rest of the Gotei 13, then before he can obtain the Hogyoku I'll make my move to stop him.
He focused his thoughts on what he knew and the events that were currently happening.
This time Urahara placed the Hogyoku in Hinamori's gigai. Even though it's not Rukia being executed, it seems Hinamori is still being executed via the Sokyoku. I already have a plan to stop that from happening, but if things go similarly to the events that I know of, then Aizen will have gotten his hands on the second method to remove the Hogyoku from Hinamori's gigai. Now then...will Aizen still fake his death and go through all of that fiasco?
Fwish!
He snapped out of his thoughts as he arrived before Yushiro's office quarters. He stood by the entrance door which was left wide open and took note of Yushiro sleeping with his head laid down on his desk. Shaking his head he knocked on the door causing Yushiro to jolt out of his chair.
"I-I was just resting my eyes for a moment Captain!" Yushiro shouted in alarm, drool still dripping from the corner of his mouth.
Kishin just gave an amused grin. "Oi, I'm not the Captain."
"Eh? AH? Kishin?"
He waved his hand and walked inside. "Yo, Yushiro. Been awhile. Seems you're doing well."
Yushiro awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck. "Aha...ahem. What brings you here? Wait, are you here to play?" He gave an expectant look in his eyes.
Kishin just shook his head. "You really love to play don't you?"
Yushiro pouted and crossed his arms. "Figures. If you aren't here to play then you're going to ask another favor of me aren't you...how come I never get a reward huh?"
"Reward? Do you really want one?"
"Eh? I was just saying and grumbling but are you really going to consider giving me something?"
Kishin thought for a moment before smirking. "Sure, why not."
Yushiro's eyes perked up at his answer. "Really? What is it? What is it? When do I get it?"
A mischievous look flashed by in Kishin's eyes as he replied, "How would you like to see your sister?"
Yushiro immediately froze and turned serious. "Are you...being serious right now?"
Kishin took a seat on a chair nearby and crossed his legs relaxedly. "I am."
Yushiro gave a doubtful look. "Really? No one's seen or heard from my sister for over a hundred years."
Kishin smirked and played with a cat figurine on Yushiro's desk. "Sure no one has heard or seen her for over a hundred years...except for me."
"AH?!" Yushiro's eyes widened in shock. "Y-Y-You, do you know what you're saying?"
"Of course I do. So? Do you want to see her or not?"
"I do I do!"
"Great. Then you'll do me a favor?"
"I will! What do you want?"
Kishin smirked in triumph. "For the next 30 days I need you to keep an eye on the western gate of Seireitei. Also, I need you to patrol the 1st district of western Rukongai at the same time."
Yushiro had a confused look on his face as he asked, "That's...it? I can do that in my sleep. What's the catch?"
Kishin put the cat figurine away and stood back up looking out the window. "Yushiro...do you trust me?"
Without question Yushiro immediately responded, "Duh. You're my good brother! Why else do you think I've done all these favors for you before?"
Kishin's lips curled into a smile as a warm feeling filled his chest. "Yushiro, sometime in the next 30 days there'll probably be some Ryoka that appear in Soul Society."
Yushiro slightly narrowed his eyes in understanding. "And these Ryoka will supposedly appear in the western district of Rukongai?"
Kishin nodded. "That's right."
Yushiro took a moment to contemplate what Kishin said, wondering how Kishin knew this, but he didn't pry and instead asked, "Then, is there something you wanted me to do with these Ryoka?"
"That's right. First, if something happens that would expose you then wait until the coast is clear for you to act. What I want you to do is to help those Ryoka into the Seireitei and bring them to the secret training ground beneath the Sokyoku hill."
"EHHH? You want me to HELP them infiltrate the Seireitei, not get rid of them? Isn't that equal to committing treason?"
Kishin just waved his hand in the air. "Here's where your reward comes in."
Yushiro cocked his head to the side. "I'm not following."
Kishin then pointed to the black cat figurine on the table. "Your sister Yoruichi. She'll be leading the group of Ryoka."
Yushiro flinched at his comment. "Y-You're sure?"
"I am." He replied with confidence.
Yushiro narrowed his eyes for a minute before his heart began to palpitate in excitement. "Heh...Hehehe-Hahaha! So big sister is coming back? Hahaha! Nice! Okay, I'm not sure exactly what's going on but if sis is gonna be among the Ryoka then something huge is going to go down. Alright, you can leave the west prefecture to me Kishin."
Kishin nodded in appreciation. "Thanks Yushiro."
Yushiro just gave a thumbs up and a wink. "Sure sure, by the way, is there anything else you need help with?"
Kishin thought about it for a moment running some simulations in his head before nodding. "Actually there is."
"What is it? Let me know and I'll get it done."
"Do you know how to activate and use the Shihoin Shield?"
Yushiro was a bit taken aback at the question, but he nodded. "I do, but the Shihoin clan isn't in possession of that item. We gave it away to Captain Ukitake as a gift."
"I know."
Yushiro scratched the side of his cheek. "That item-" he stopped mid-sentence as realization struck him causing him to stare at Kishin with an incredulous look in his eyes. "You...you're planning to destroy the Sokyoku? And the Ryoka...big sister...you guys are trying to stop the execution of Hinamori Momo?"
Kishin grinned in amusement wondering when Yushiro was going to put the pieces together. "That's right. We're going to stop the execution of Hinamori Momo."
"Ehhhh? What...is going on?"
"Even if I tried to explain you probably wouldn't get it. You'd only have more questions. Instead, ask your sister about it when you see her."
Yushiro had a complicated look in his eyes for several long moments before letting out a confused sigh. "Paaaaah...I don't get it."
Kishin just shook his head. "See what I mean? Instead of trying to think things through, just follow my plan."
"Okay. Since you say that big sis is gonna be there then I'll ask her about it when I see her." A giant grin appeared on Yushiro's face as he thought about being reunited with his elder sister again after being separated for so long.
"Alright calm down. Don't get all giddy just yet. And keep everything a secret."
Yushiro refocused and the aura around him became serious. "Roger. I am still the Head of the Shihoin clan as well as the leader of the Punishment Force. Keeping secrets is a specialty of mine. So let me just make sure I got this right. You want me to patrol and keep an eye out for the Ryoka and big sis in the west precinct of Seireitei and Rukongai for the next 30 days and help prepare the Shihoin Shield to destroy the Sokyoku before Hinamori is executed."
Kishin nodded. "That's right."
Yushiro gave Kishin an awkward look as he then asked, "But...it'll require myself and one other of the Captain class to unleash the full power of the Shihoin Shield to destroy the Sokyoku."
Kishin just smirked. "Don't worry about that. The unsealing of the Sokyoku requires the Kido Corps to take action. No doubt Kinji will be present. I'll have him join you on that front."
"Ehhh? Okay…but what about Hinamori afterwards?"
"Don't worry about that. I'm going to talk to Toshiro. One of the main reasons I'm doing all of this is because I know he won't sit still and let her be executed. Once you and Kinji destroy the Sokyoku I'll have Toshiro and Kinji take her and protect her. You help out on that front. With the three of you together then Hinamori should be well protected."
"Okay...but won't we all be hunted down by the Gotei 13 and be labeled as criminals and traitors? Where will we go? And...my clan...and what about the Captain Commander?"
Kishin gave an encouraging pat on Yushiro's shoulder. "Don't worry about all of that. Yushiro, listen to me and listen well. There are things happening in the shadows that have blinded the entire Gotei 13. These things will come to light very soon. In the aftermath of the entire ordeal no one will be faulted or blamed for the actions that they have taken. At least we won't. Just trust me on this. It's also the reason why your sister will be making an appearance here in such a long time. You don't have to worry about negative consequences."
Yushiro gave another suspicious glance at Kishin, but in the end he trusted this brother of his so he simply nodded and saluted him. "Then I'll put my faith in you brother!"
Kishin nodded in appreciation. "I'm counting on you Yushiro."
Without exchanging anymore words he blurred out of the office and left the 2nd division grounds heading straight for the 10th division.
Haaah...what a pain. With Yushiro's help then Ichigo should be able to infiltrate the Seireitei much easier, however the question is how strong he'll be at the time. If things go well then they won't use Kukaku's canon to force their way into the Seireitei. Now then...how exactly will you react...Aizen…
Fwish!
He soon appeared above the roof of the 10th division Captain's building and found Toshiro restlessly pacing back and forth just outside. A look of panic and stress was plastered all over his face easily giving away what he was thinking. He was so absorbed in his thoughts that he didn't even notice Kishin's presence.
Plop!
The sound of his loud entrance as he dropped down to the floor resounded in the air, but even then Toshiro didn't take notice.
"Oi." Kishin attempted to get Toshiro's attention, however Toshiro simply frowned to himself, gripping tighter and tighter onto the wooden railing nearby.
"Oi!" Kishin tried again, but once more he received no reply. In the end he walked right behind Toshiro and whacked him on the head.
BAM!
"AH!" Toshiro yelped out in shock. "K-Kishin?!" He replied completely flustered.
"Yo. Pay attention will ya? Others will think you're plotting something in the dark."
Toshiro immediately froze up at Kishin's comment.
"Heh. Guess I hit the nail on the head huh?" Kishin said nonchalantly.
"I-uh...I don't know what you're talking about." Toshiro attempted to act normally, however he failed miserably.
Kishin just smirked and gripped Toshiro by the collar, dragging him into the building.
"O-Oi!" Toshiro remarked confusedly and semi-nervously.
Kishin just walked over to a chair and took a seat before motioning for Toshiro to take one as well which he soon did.
"Look. I know what you're thinking."
"Y-You do?"
"You're planning to break Hinamori out when she's transferred to the Senzaikyu aren't you?"
Again Toshiro froze up in place having no good answer, so instead he remained silent.
"Thought so."
Toshiro clenched his hands into fists clearly frustrated and stressed. "Kishin, don't try to stop me. I know that I-"
"I'm not going to stop you."
Toshiro frowned and stood up as he shouted, "If you stop me I-EH?" He paused as he just realized what Kishin said to him. "You-uhhh...did you say that you WON'T stop me?"
Kishin smirked at Toshiro's bewildered expression. "That's right. I'm not going to stop you."
Toshiro felt completely lost and sat back down in confusion. "Ummm…"
Kishin just waved his hand and continued, "I'm not going to stop you. Since you're going to do something reckless anyways I'm going to help you."
Once more Toshiro felt completely lost and confused. He cocked his head to the side and asked suspiciously, "You're...going to help me? Like...help me FREE Hinamori?"
"That's right."
"Errr...but…"
"No but's."
"But-"
"I said no but's."
"BUT KISHIN! YOU will get into huge trouble for this and you'll be hunted by the Gotei 13 and-"
"Haaaah…" Kishin let out a long stressful sigh and pinched the bridge of his nose in annoyance at the entire ordeal. "Look. You don't even have a plan. I do."
Toshiro narrowed his eyes in curiosity. "You do? Wait...you have that look about you. What's going on?"
A mischievous grin found its way to Kishin's lips as he replied, "There are bigger things happening in Soul Society. Just listen."
He then proceeded to repeat the parts of destroying the Sokyoku that he discussed with Yushiro to Toshiro. After he was done Toshiro furrowed his brow in contemplation. After a while he returned his attention to Kishin and asked, "I suppose...this plan would work. But after the Sokyoku is destroyed and I have Hinamori, what'll happen to us? The Captain Commander isn't going to let this go."
Kishin nodded. "I know. That's why I'm enlisting help."
"Eh? Help? From who?"
Kishin frowned as a somewhat helpless look shone in his eyes, but in the end he leaned back in his chair and stared up at the ceiling deep in thought. "Captain Ukitake and Captain Kyoraku."
"Eh? Are you sure? Will they actually help us?"
"I don't know. It's asking a lot, but if I explain the situation to them then I think there's a good chance that they'll help."
Toshiro fidgeted in his seat feeling unsure, but he didn't have any better plans or any plans at all really so he could only grit his teeth and accept. "Where should I go after I take Hinamori?"
"Head to the secret training ground beneath the Sokyoku Hill and wait for me. If I don't show up within an hour then head to my office and activate the Senkaimon to escape to the World of the Living. Look for someone named Urahara Kisuke. Yushiro and Kinji will be your backup."
…
Silence.
After Kishin finished explaining his plan neither of them spoke for several long minutes. Toshiro felt conflicted because he knew that his rash decision in wanting to save Hinamori was going to implicate Kishin, Yushiro, and Kinji. Not only that but Kishin was going to ask Jushiro and Shunsui to help as well. The entire ordeal would involve many many party's and would throw the entirety of Soul Society into chaos.
Kishin smirked and knew exactly what Toshiro was thinking so he stood up and placed an encouraging hand on Toshiro's shoulder. "Look, don't think too much about it. I told Yushiro this already. Our plan and actions won't implicate anyone in the end."
Toshiro looked up clearly confused and bewildered. "What do you mean our actions won't implicate anyone?"
Kishin walked towards the door resting his hand on the handle. "Don't you find it strange?"
"Find what strange?"
"Don't you find it strange that Rukia's sentence was only 6 months of house arrest when she went missing for 2 months in the World of the Living along with Hinamori? Sure she's part of the Great Noble Clans, but when did Captain Kuchiki make a direct appeal to Central 46 to lighten her sentence?"
Toshiro furrowed his brow in thought. "Then...are you saying that someone is pulling the strings behind the scenes?"
Kishin smirked at Toshiro's quick thinking. "When I went missing for just a day Central 46 was ready to exile me. An extreme punishment, but it wasn't death. As for Hinamori, her crime was overstaying her time in Karakura Town and also turning a Human into a Shinigami. While it is known as a serious crime, her crimes do not warrant death by way of the Sokyoku."
Toshiro frowned in seriousness as he thought about it. "That's...That's true...then what's going on here?"
"Toshiro, when is the Sokyoku usually supposed to be used?"
"That's...it's used on the most dangerous and nefarious criminals that are at the very least Captain level in strength."
"That's right, but what about Hinamori? She's only at the Lieutenant level in strength and can easily be disposed of. There's no need to use the Sokyoku to execute her. Think back to the Vanishing Soul's Incident. You've heard about it before right?"
"I have. Didn't the previous 12th division Captain get exiled for Hollowfication experimentation?"
"That's right. Isn't that considered an even more dangerous crime than Hinamori's transfer of her powers to a Human? After all, during the Vanishing Soul's Case six Captains, four Lieutenants, and the Commander of the Kido Corps were implicated. That's a loss of nearly half the entirety of the Gotei 13's military force. You'd think that the perpetrators would have been sentenced to death by execution of the Sokyoku, but they weren't."
Toshiro frowned and frowned even more. "Then...what is going on here?"
"Toshiro, I'm telling you this so you don't have to think too much about the consequences of what we're doing. Just focus on the plan we have to save Hinamori. Everything else will naturally fall into place."
Toshiro stared at Kishin's back in wonderment. "You know something about this don't you?"
"I do."
Toshiro slightly flinched as he wasn't expecting Kishin to actually admit to knowing. "Is there a reason why you aren't telling me the whole story?"
Kishin just shrugged his shoulders. "Even if you knew there would be nothing you can do. Instead it would only serve to distract you from the goal you should be focusing on."
"How can you already know that I won't be able to help?"
"Do you really want me to answer that?"
Toshiro nodded. "Give it to me straight."
"Alright. Don't take it the wrong way Toshiro, but the truth is you aren't strong enough to make a difference."
"Wha-" Toshiro started, however he stopped himself from finishing his sentence and stared ashamedly at Kishin's back. "Am I...really not strong enough to help share the burden with you...Kishin."
Kishin simply nodded his head. "Sorry. You aren't strong enough."
Toshiro clenched his hands into fists feeling completely powerless. "Is the enemy that strong?"
"Aside from the Captain Commander, there isn't any other Captain that stands a chance."
Toshiro widened his eyes at the claim that Kishin just made. "How can that be?"
"You don't have to be so surprised. Just focus on the plan. Saving Hinamori is your top priority. Leave everything else to play out as it should. Just trust me on this."
Toshiro took in a deep breath to calm his nerves before giving Kishin a complicated look. "I...I trust you, Kishin. But how do you know about what's really happening?"
"Call it luck, or maybe I was unlucky. Either way I found out so let's leave it at that. Like I said, you'll only get distracted and get your priorities mixed up. When you aren't aptly prepared to know something then knowing too much is worse than knowing nothing. Just leave it to me."
In the end Toshiro nodded in defeat. Although he truly wanted to know what was going on, after hearing that he was completely useless in facing such a hidden danger he decided that he'd focus on doing what he can like Kishin suggested. And that was focusing on protecting and saving Hinamori. The sound of the door opening and closing could be heard as Kishin started his trek back towards the 13th division.
Now to try and convince Captain Ukitake.
"Eh?" He paused and turned his head to his left just as he stepped outside the 10th division grounds. "Kinji?"
Kinji also paused and leaned on his cane noting Kishin's presence. "Yo, did you just come back from comforting Toshiro?"
Kishin smirked and nodded. "Let me guess, you're here for the same thing?"
"Haha, was it that easy to guess? I know he's agonizing right now about Hinamori's situation." Kinji's eyes then turned serious as he made a quick tapping motion with his cane on the ground immediately erecting a transparent Kido barrier around the two of them.
Kishin raised his eyebrow and took a moment to look around. "A barrier to prevent others from listening in. Seems you have something to say."
Kinji sighed as he looked inside the 10th division, particularly at the building designating the Captain's quarters. "C'mon Kishin, you and I both know what Toshiro is like. Don't tell me that you haven't figured out that Toshiro's going to do something reckless?"
"Oh? So you figured that as well?"
"Obviously. How long have we known Toshiro? If I couldn't predict that much then I'm pretty much a failure as a friend don't you think?"
"Then what are you going to do about it? Try to convince him otherwise?"
Kinji just gave a look that said that Kishin was underestimating him.
"What?" Kishin amusedly asked.
Kinji just shook his head. "And how long do you think I've known you for? Obviously you already told Toshiro something."
"Hahaha, so you guessed that much huh? And?"
"And?! Don't beat around the bush Kishin. Just give it to me straight. What is your plan?"
"My plan? What makes you think I have a plan?"
"Oi oi, how dumb do you think I am? It's you of all people."
"Heh, alright fine. I was going to visit you sooner or later to tell you about it anyways. Good timing."
"Coincidence. So? What is the plan?"
Kishin took a moment to glance back within the 10th division grounds before he proceeded to tell Kinji about destroying the Sokyoku and protecting Hinamori. Kinji took a few moments to think the details over before nodding his head in approval. "That...should actually work. I can coordinate the timing of unsealing the Sokyoku with Yushiro's preparation of the Shihoin Shield. That should buy Yushiro enough time to complete the preparation and arrive right when I finish releasing the Sokyoku. It can be destroyed right after."
"Great. Then I'll leave that part to the both of you. You know how to activate the Senkaimon in my office so if things go south, take Toshiro and Hinamori and go to the World of the Living."
"Alright, but what about you? What'll you be doing during the rest of the time?"
Kishin narrowed his eyes as his expression became serious. "Kinji, I'm going to tell you something that I haven't yet told anyone else."
Kinji noted the atmosphere around Kishin become a bit heavy so he furrowed his brow and nodded. "Alright, I'm all ears."
"Remember when I asked you for advice on creating an original Kido spell that can counter illusions?"
"Yeah, I do. What about it?"
"Haven't you been wondering the reason why I was so specific?"
Kinji slightly frowned. "What's going on? Don't tell me that there's some sort of illusion that the Gotei 13's been placed under?"
Kishin smirked at Kinji's quick wittedness. "Ehhh, not bad. That's right. You've all been put under a spell."
Kinji's eyes immediately widened in shock. "Wait what?! I was just throwing that out there as a joke. Explain thoroughly."
"It's Captain Aizen. He's not the man that you all believe him to be. I reckon at some point he showed you the power of his Zanpakuto correct?"
"Y-Yeah...that's right. During our academy days he once substituted for our Zanjutsu instructor who happened to be busy that day. Captain Aizen taught us about communicating with our Zanpakuto and what the release of a Shikai looks like."
"Oh? So that's how it went."
Kinji noted that there was more to Kishin's words so he quickly questioned, "Exactly what is going on here?"
"Alright, listen well and keep it a secret Kinji. Aizen is the one behind everything happening in Soul Society. Even as far back as the Vanishing Souls Incident to right now and the execution of Hinamori. The power of Aizen's Zanpakuto isn't whatever he told you it was. Its true power is the power of complete hypnosis. The moment you see his Zanpakuto's release is the moment you fall victim to its power. It has the power to control all 5 senses of anyone who has seen its release. What makes it so deadly is that you only need to see the release once. After that you'll fall victim to its power every time Aizen utilizes his Shikai."
...
For a good long while Kinji took in the information that Kishin just gave him. He didn't move or speak or do anything, but with every passing moment his eyes would become wider and wider and wider turning from confusion to shock to seriousness to a bit of fear as he realized just how much power Aizen held over the entirety of the Gotei 13. He hesitantly stared Kishin in the eyes and asked, "I-If what you say is true then Central 46 and the orders they are giving a-"
Kishin simply nodded. "Naturally Central 46 has been disposed of. The one issuing the orders is Aizen."
"But why? Why would he do all of this? What's his goal? What does he want?"
"He wants the Hogyoku."
"Eh? Hogyoku? What's that?"
"It's too much of a bother to explain. What I can tell you is that it's currently implanted within Hinamori and Aizen needs the Sokyoku to destroy Hinamori's complete being in order to extract the Hogyoku from within her. That's why this is happening."
"I see. So that's why we're destroying the Sokyoku, but if what you say is true and Aizen has everyone under his hypnosis then how exactly are we to counter him? ...Eh? Wait, your Kido spell. Don't tell me...you knew. You knew all this time about Aizen and his powers. The-Then you were creating a spell to specifically counter his Zanpakuto's ability. Were you able to do it?"
Kishin awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck and shook his head. "I'm close, but it's not quite ready. Remember when I told you about Kido spells in the 100's not being impossible?"
"I do. Wait, don't tell me that the spell you're making to counter Aizen is a Kido spell that falls within the 100's?"
Kishin simply nodded. "It is...so you can imagine how difficult it is to complete it, but once it's done then I'm 100% confident that even if I fall under the power of his Shikai, I'll still be able to fight him without being influenced by his complete hypnosis."
"Eh? How? Exactly what kind of spell is it? And how did you surpass the limit of level 99?"
"Aizen's power deals with controlling the 5 senses, however spiritually aware beings possess not only 5 senses, but 6. My spell has to do with that. As for the matter of surpassing the limits of level 99, I simply combined and stabilized the force of a different source of power with my Shinigami powers and treated those two energy sources as one complete whole, it can break the limits and barriers that hold back the soul of a Shinigami."
"What? Combining and stabilizing two different energy sources as one to eliminate the barrier of a Shinigami's soul? Like wha-!" Kinji stopped himself from finishing his sentence as he carefully studied Kishin's frame. "Kishin, have you...are you...but wait...it can't b-"
Kishin just waved his hand in the air. "It happened a long time ago. I'll tell you in detail about what exactly happened another time. For now lets focus on saving Hinamori. Can I count on you to do your part?"
Kinji had a complicated look on his face, but in the end he sighed and closed his eyes nodding in defeat. "I got it. You can count on me." He then gave Kishin a concerned look as he asked, "Are you...are you alright though? You don't feel negative side effects?"
"C'mon Kinji. Who do you think you're talking to?" He gave one last look at Kinji and winked before dashing off into the distance.
It wasn't long before he arrived back in the 13th division grounds pacing outside Jushiro's room. Just as he was about to knock on the door he was interrupted by the sound of Jushiro's voice. "Shin-chan, it's okay. You can just come in."
Kishin stood in place for a second gathering his final thoughts before opening the door and walking inside. "Captain, how are you feeling today?"
Jushiro just smiled and poured two cups of tea. "I'm feeling much better today. Here, have a seat."
"Thanks Captain." Kishin made himself comfortable and took a sip of his tea.
The two of them sat in peaceful silence for a while before Jushiro broke the ice. "It seems Rukia is doing well. I went to see her not too long ago."
Kishin grinned as he wondered what Rukia was currently doing. "Captain, thanks for fighting over keeping jurisdiction of her punishment."
Jushiro just waved his hand relaxedly. "No no, don't thank me. It is as it should be. I don't want Rukia to suffer either. It's better if she remains here in the 13th division for her 6 month probation. That said, it's unfortunate that I was unable to be of any help for Hinamori's situation." Jushiro then noticed the look on Kishin's face as if he wanted to say something so he ventured to ask, "Shin-chan, there's something you want to tell me right?"
Kishin didn't hide it and simply nodded. "Actually Captain, I'm sure you're aware of Toshiro's close relationship with Hinamori right?"
Jushiro furrowed his brow and hesitantly asked, "Is...Hitsugaya-kun planning to do something?"
"He is."
"Haaaah...I thought it might come to this, though I had sort of hoped that he wouldn't act."
"Captain, what if I told you that I decided to help him?"
"EHHHHH?!" Jushiro's eyes widened in shock. "A-Are you really?"
Kishin gave a toothy grin. "I am."
Jushiro was a bit tongue-tied and couldn't form coherent sentences for several minutes at Kishin's confirmation of rebelling. Finally Jushiro was able to reign in his shocked state and took a long sip on his tea before refocusing his attention on Kishin. A serious expression was worn on his face.
"Shin-chan...you do realize what you're saying and doing right?"
Kishin simply nodded. "I am. That is why I'm here."
"Hm? What do you mean?"
"Captain...not only am I going to help Toshiro free Hinamori, I'm here to make unreasonable requests of you."
Now Jushiro was completely baffled. One, he never expected Kishin to tell him straight up that Toshiro was going to rebel. Two, he never imagined that Kishin would also choose to rebel. And three, he never imagined that Kishin would not only tell him all of this, but also request his involvement. Jushiro set his tea cup down and sighed.
"Haaaah…" He stared at Kishin for a good long while noting the confident and unwavering look in his eyes.
Shin-chan...Shiro-chan...what should I do…
Kishin noted the conflicted look in Jushiro's eyes so he smiled and said, "Captain Ukitake, at least hear me out."
Jushiro raised his eyebrow questioningly and nodded in defeat. "Alright. I'll at least hear you out."
And so Kishin proceeded to tell Jushiro most of what he told Yushiro and Toshiro leaving out the bit about the Ryoka. After he finished recounting what he discussed with the others, Jushiro frowned and rubbed the bottom of his chin deep in contemplation. "This...so using the Shihoin Shield...that would definitely work. And with Yushiro being the current Shihoin clan Head he would be able to prep the power of the Shield better than I could. And you have a point. Hinamori's situation does seem strange. Even though Central 46 is a bit unreasonable, to go even this far to execute Hinamori, a previous Lieutenant and now 4th ranked officer of the 13th division by way of the Sokyoku is overly excessive. Why go through the trouble of unsealing the Sokyoku for her?"
Kishin nodded. "Will you help Captain?"
Jushiro closed his eyes and thought about the entire situation for several long minutes. His brows wrinkled and his face scrunched up, but in the end he let out a defeated sigh. "Haaaah...I can't just let you handle this on your own Shin-chan. And things do seem to be quite suspicious. Alright, I'll talk to Kyoraku. If things proceed as you planned then Kyoraku and I will do our best to stall Genryuusai-sensei."
Kishin beamed at Jushiro's verbal confirmation in joining his endeavor. "Thanks Captain. I'm sorry to have sprung this on you so suddenly."
"No no, what you said makes perfect sense. Or rather, the events happening in Seireitei right now don't make much sense. There isn't much justification in the way things are panning out for Hinamori's case. Don't worry Shin-chan, you can count on me. Besides, while it was incredibly short, it remains a fact that Hinamori is still considered a member of the 13th division."
"Then I'll have to trouble you Captain."
"Mn."
Kishin respectfully saluted Jushiro once more before he took his leave. The moment he stepped back outside he took in a deep breath of much needed fresh air.
Haaaah...things are in place. Aizen...the question now is, how will you respond? If you thought I was just going to sit on the sidelines and do absolutely nothing then I'm sorry to disappoint.
He smirked to himself and headed back to his living quarters. As he opened the door the smell of something savory filled the air in the room. He immediately began to salivate while his stomach let out a growl. He followed the trail of smoke to the kitchen and happily grinned seeing Rukia cooking some lunch. Without warning he snuck up behind her and wrapped her in his arms.
"Ah! Kishin? Baka! I'm in the middle of-"
Smooch!
He immediately cut her off with a passionate kiss before he broke away licking his lips in satisfaction. "Mmmm…you taste good senpai."
Rukia blushed and stomped on his foot.
"Ow!" He yelped in shock.
Rukia just huffed and returned her attention to cooking. "B-Baka! You're distracting me."
"I don't mind." He playfully responded.
Rukia just gave him an incredulous look. "But I do! It's hard enough not to burn anything when I'm not distracted."
Kishin took note that nothing was burnt and was greatly impressed. "You're right...nothing is actually burnt...how?"
A thick vein popped off on her forehead as she pointed the spoon in her hands at him. "Hmpf! I've practiced!" A smile soon formed on her lips as she gave him a proud triumphant look. "Since I'm going to be here for the next 6 months I figured I should do at least this much…do you not like it?"
Kishin immediately shook his head and hugged her from behind. "No...I love it."
MISC.
Alright, so Kishin's gearing up to face Aizen. Next chapter Kishin and Ichigo will meet. I wonder how that meeting will go...will Kishin be able to prevent Aizen from taking Hinamori. What exactly is the power of Kishin's Kido Spell that'll help him counter Kyoka Suigetsu? Does Kishin have any other Kido Spells in the 100's that he's created? What is the true nature of Kido Spells in the 100's? Will Rukia really be safe the rest of the arc now that she's returned? Hmmm...a little bit of answers, many more questions to be answered.
Well, next chapter should be quite interesting to see. How will Ichigo react to seeing Kishin...