Meifu's Gate ::Third Chronicle::

by VraieEsprit

Ambition. Revenge. Betrayal. Soaked in blood, 7th District purges itself of its outlaw Urahara. At the Academy, Juu & Shun face new challenges, as well as the encroaching darkness. This time fate's hand may splinter their friendship & divide them forever.

30. The Council Of Elders

Chapter Twenty Nine: The Council of Elders

So they were inside Inner Seireitei.

Juushirou gazed up at the ceiling of the small hostel chamber, trying to make out patterns in the panelling in the night gloom.

They had arrived two hours before, with the sun already setting, and for the nervous Juushirou, it had seemed a long journey. They had been shepherded through a group of retainers clad in the neutral black and white of Inner Seireitei's guard, and Shirogane had immediately taken charge, holding forth his weapon for assessment and instructing Juushirou acerbically to do the same. They had been ushered to one of a small cluster of buildings next to the perimeter that divided the District from the illustrious area of governance for all of Soul Society, and despite himself, Juushirou had been glad to get inside.

As Genryuusai had told him, the accommodation was not fancy, and they had been fed only a simple, basic meal. Despite the plain nature of the food, Juushirou had found it sticking in his throat even after such a long trip. He was nervous, he knew that - terrified, if he was honest - and the thought of facing the Council had killed his appetite more effectively than any haibyou attack ever had.

Shirogane on the other hand had seemed unconcerned, not even commenting on the simple surroundings they now found themselves in. It was, Juushirou mused, as though it was a rite of passage that was accepted and that he considered a normal state of affairs. Sometimes, he had told his apprehensive student, there were more than one or two students waiting to be assessed, as Clans often sent batches of hopefuls to be reviewed at the same time. But Juushirou had no such companionship - and he found himself relieved to at least have the austere Kuchiki with him, even though their relationship was dubious at best.

At length they had retired for the night, to a small chamber with two simple pallets flanked by basic wooden units and a kidou lamp. Again, Shirogane had surprisingly made no demur about the sparse nature of the accommodation. In fact, Juushirou had had the distinct impression that his companion was glad to be away from the school for a day or two, though he did not know the reason why, and he theorised that perhaps it had to do with the opportunity to speak to the head of his Clan.

Though Ryuu speaks about Guren-sama as some kind of deity, as opposed to an ordinary man. I wonder if it's the same for Nagoya-senpai. Though if it was, maybe...he'd be more nervous than he is. Instead he seems quite relaxed about everything - or perhaps that's because it's really me being examined. He's done his job - when tomorrow's over, he won't have to do it any more.

"Are you actually going to sleep tonight?"

From across the chamber, a cross voice pierced through the gloom and Juushirou sighed, pulling himself into a more upright position and leaning back against the cool of the bedroom wall.

"I'm sorry, Senpai. I didn't mean to wake you."

"Wake me? With you fidgeting it's near enough impossible to even get to sleep." There was a groan of resignation, then a flicker of light flared across the room as the older boy activated the nearby kidou lamp. "You do realise how late it is? Tomorrow is an early start and you want to make a good impression."

"I know." Juushirou bit his lip. "I just…"

He faltered, and Shirogane sighed, reluctantly moving his body into a sitting position and crossing his legs as he settled himself more comfortably.

"Are you that intimidated?" He asked softly. "The boy who speaks to my cousin as an equal – and who has dealt directly with the Shihouin Shadow Cat without any sign of fear? I find that somehow hard to believe, Ukitake. That now you've decided at last to show some fear of the upper classes."

"This is different." Juushirou hugged his blanket more tightly to his chest. "Ryuu-kun is my friend. Midori-sama is the sister of another friend. And they're both…well…connected to the Academy because of those things. But this is…"

He faltered, then sighed.

"People from my level of society don't usually go to Inner Seireitei on any business except if they commit a crime too heinous to be dealt with anywhere else." He said softly. "It's a place we know about, but it's shrouded in mystery and the province of the ultra elite. For you and your family, Senpai, it's different. This is a part of your world. It's not a part of mine."

"Aren't you the one who's so fond of telling me that you'll show people by your actions not by your blood what you can do?" Shirogane asked lazily, twisting a stray lock of black wavy hair around his finger as he spoke. "I hardly think I'm talking to the same boy, listening to you say things like that now."

Juushirou reddened, lowering his gaze.

"I know." He admitted. "But even so…I'm afraid. The Council of Elders is…the most important place in all of Seireitei, isn't it? The people who sit there…are Clan Elders and their nearest kin. The people who will speak to me tomorrow…are…"

"People who may dismiss you for being District, perhaps?" Shirogane snorted, derision in his clever grey eyes. "Be sensible. You've been put forward by Genryuusai-sensei for this. Do you realise why it is that even though he is not the Head of his Clan, nor an active member of the Council of Elders, so many people give him such deference? Yamamoto Genryuusai Shigekuni-sama is the most powerful, experienced and respected Shinigami in all of Seireitei. Even my uncle, head of the Kuchiki-ke refers to him as Genryuusai-sama, although he uses that terminology with almost nobody else. For generations before we were even born, Genryuusai-sensei has presided over tests and examinations and the registration of many, many zanpakutou in the process. For him to say that he has a student who has successfully summoned his sword…those words will not be taken lightly."

"Did he…ratify…your zanpakutou, Senpai?" Juushirou asked hesitantly, and Shirogane shook his head.

"No. He put me forward, therefore he could not – just as he cannot with yours." He responded simply. "There has to be objectivity. Three members of the Council will adjudge your weapon tomorrow – but he will not be among them. Nor will Retsu-sama, most likely – in this regard, she can be seen as subjective, after all."

"Where I'm concerned, probably." Juushirou rubbed his temples. "Since because of my haibyou she probably sees more of me than she does of most of the other students."

"Do not mention that tomorrow, unless asked about it directly." Shirogane advised. "The Council do not look well on those who attempt to glean sympathy or make excuses for themselves, after all."

"I wasn't going to!" Despite himself, Juushirou was indignant. "I've no intention of doing either of those things! It's nothing to do with anything – I don't go around looking for sympathy from anyone!"

"Ah yes. That's more the Ukitake I've been forced to tutor." Shirogane offered him a slight, faintly amused smile. "Though you should have learnt by now that getting all hot under the collar doesn't endear you to Clan people, either."

"I know you don't like me." Juushirou sighed, shrugging his shoulders. "And I know you're only here because Sensei made you train me in the first place. You don't need to rub it in further, Nagoya-senpai. I already know all too well how eager you are to be rid of me."

"You've never called me Anideshi." Shirogane reflected. "Not once."

"It's hard to do that." Juushirou said frankly. "Anideshi is someone who helps his juniors. You really don't care about doing that – so I find it difficult to call you by that title."

"I'm not Urahara Yunosuke and I don't suffer fools like he did." Shirogane shrugged. "And with that attitude, some would see you as insubordinate."

He stifled a yawn, then,

"Tomorrow, the people you will meet are Heads of Clans, as you have said." He added. "This level of insubordination to those born above you will not get you treated favourably. So as you know, pandering to District children is abnormal. They will not dismiss you – but you should not expect to be treated by them as an equal. You'll never be that, after all – no matter how hard you work."

"I'm not trying to be Clan, Senpai. I'm just trying to do the best I can to protect the people I care about. And other people too, if I can."

"There you go again with your noble, airy fairy dreams." Shirogane snorted derisively. "I can't make out with you sometimes if you really mean them or if someone taught you them by rote before they sent you away to school. Still…"

He paused, then sighed.

"You do have considerable strength." He admitted reluctantly. "And you have worked hard. This is, probably, a deserved result. Just don't let it make you too cocky – there is a long way to go yet before you can call yourself a Shinigami."

"I know that." Juushirou fell silent for a moment, digesting this, then, "Senpai?"

"Mm?"

"Which Elders ratified your sword, then? If not Sensei, and not Kuchiki-sama – then who?"

"Endou Shouichi, Shiba Kyouki and Shihouin Kamuki." Shirogane said with a shrug. "There was quite a scandal, I remember – because my Uncle was cross a Shihouin had been selected to ratify a Kuchiki. Yet the process went without a problem – probably on account of my level of skill at the time. Not that I particularly take pride in being examined by a Shihouin – or that he has since been executed for breaching important Council laws. But such as it stands – nobody knew this then, and therefore they were the ones involved. Selecting the panel is always somewhat tricky in any case, to prevent bias from seeping into official judgements."

"Bias? I see." Juushirou pursed his lips, and Shirogane nodded.

"As I said, Unohana Retsu-sama will probably be considered too close an acquaintance to ratify you." He said simply. "And any representative she sends, likewise. As I have trained you, I think it unlikely my uncle will be one of the three chosen – although he will be present, as this year the Council is chaired by the Kuchiki-ke. Tokutarou-sama from District Eight is the only member of the Council of Elders who is not Gotei and therefore not considered knowledgeable enough to take part in such examinations – although he is well respected for his good sense, his zanpakutou skills are meagre at best. I think it is most likely that your judges will be chosen, therefore, from the remaining Clans. Possibly not the Yamamoto-ke, on account of Academy affiliation – which leaves Endou Shouichi, Urahara Nagesu, Shiba Kyouki and that Shadow Cat. Unless, of course, the Council know that you seem to be on good terms with her already."

"Why would they?" Juushirou sighed. "And Midori-sama is the Head of a District, now. She's ruthless and fair, Senpai. She'd probably judge me most strictly of all because of that."

"Mmm. Perhaps you are right." Shirogane shrugged. "The Kuchiki do not like her or her kind – but I have not heard negative things about her judgement in the time she has been in control of her Clan. Still, I think that if they suspect any level of partiality or acquaintance – such a selection is unlikely unless unavoidable."

"And how…did they…do they ratify the swords? With yours…how was it..?"

"They asked me questions, and bid me release my weapon so that they could analyse it and my reiatsu as well. I did so, and they approved it." Shirogane responded. "It's quite a simple process. Though I imagine they may ask you more questions – in the history of Seireitei I do not believe a District child has ever before come to ratify a weapon or add it to the registry that the Council of Elders keeps."

Juushirou reached across to brush the hilt of his sword, sheathed for travel in a flimsy wooden scabbard and lying as it was atop the polished surface beside his bed.

"Sougyo no Kotowari is a proper zanpakutou, though." He murmured. "Sensei said so. So that being the case…"

"It's a proper sword, Ukitake. Much as it annoys me to admit it, it is." Shirogane nodded his head. "So you really have nothing to worry about. Your nerves are, I suppose, logical for one of such inferior birth stepping into such a hallowed place. But for the Council, this is normal practice. Each one of them will have faced the same review and trial to register their own zanpakutou in the past – they know the system far better than anyone else."

He shot his companion a sidelong glance.

"Do not embarrass me tomorrow." He instructed. "What you say and do reflects on the school and Sensei, but also on me as your shishou."

"I'll do my best." Ukitake nodded. "I know that this is important for you too, Senpai. I know you need it – to be able to graduate the Academy and join your squad."

"My Uncle won't have me until I officially turn twenty, which isn't until the end of next month." Shirogane said with a sigh. "I can age quite easily without too much effort, but his other requirements of me are tiresome. Still…at least if I can prove I have trained you successfully, he may take seriously my intent and finally allow me to take up office in Sixth District's squad. I am the best qualified for the role, after all."

"Being powerful doesn't always make you the best." Juushirou murmured, and Shirogane's eyes narrowed.

"And what do you know about it, anyway?" He demanded. "You're more than aware of my capabilities. You have no reason to mock them."

Juushirou smiled.

"I'm grateful, actually." He admitted, and Shirogane's eyes widened.

"Grateful?"

"That you've worked so much with me and been so strict and uncompromising." Juushirou nodded. "Thanks to that, I've found my power and learnt to use it properly. I think you're a good teacher, Senpai – I think you'll be a good adjutant, too, when you're allowed to graduate and join the Kuchiki-ke's squad. I think Sensei knows that too, which is why he asked you to train me. He just wanted to be able to prove it to your Uncle, that's all – that you can train and lead, even if you haven't bothered to so far."

Shirogane stared, and Juushirou looked sheepish.

"You always see everything I say as rude in some way or another, so I thought I'd just say it." He said simply. "But I'm glad you were my shishou and that you taught me to raise my sword. I think anyone who works under you in Sixth Squad will know what you expect of them – and that's important, no matter who you are."

A droll smile touched Shirogane's lips.

"If I didn't know that my usefulness to you was ending tomorrow, I'd think there was a barb or a motive behind that praise." He reflected. "But then I've heard from Ryuu how you say surprising things and even more surprisingly, you mean them. So I'll take that at face value, Ukitake. I'll assume it was a compliment and meant as such."

"It was." Juushirou nodded. "Though you might think it's rude for me to compliment you – it's still how I feel."

Shirogane sighed.

"When Yunosuke and the others were here, there was no point in me doing anything. They always did everything – I was the junior of the Seniors and there really wasn't much to do." He admitted. "I'm not that interested in running around in the way he did – I admit it, I didn't care enough to try. And maybe I still don't. But…odd as it seems…I have somewhat enjoyed training you. Watching you progress. Seeing you take my advice and adapt it to your own techniques…and in the end, witnessing your success. This is the first time I have trained a junior to release his sword, but as a Vice Captain, it may not be the last. And perhaps giving orders is not so bad – if you can make sure they are obeyed."

Juushirou looked surprised.

"Senpai? Are you saying that…you've benefited from training me, too?"

"I suppose I am." Shirogane laughed wryly. "I'm not Yunosuke, and a lot of the time this year I've felt people look on me unfavourably because he was always involved in everything at a moment's notice. But I'm not a completely hopeless case. I dislike having to prove myself, I suppose. But at least now – perhaps I can say that I have."

"That's why you mentioned me not calling you Anideshi." Juushirou realised. "Because people still think of Urahara-senpai as Anideshi – they haven't transferred it over to you."

"Only the First Years really call me it with any regularity." Shirogane nodded. "As a Kuchiki, it's a disrespect – and a dent to my pride."

Juushirou pursed his lips. Then, slowly, he nodded his head.

"Thanks to you I have my sword." He murmured. "And that's something Anideshi would do for junior students, I think. So I will call you Anideshi, if you want me to. Your training me is proof that you should have the title, after all."

Shirogane chuckled.

"From you, Senpai is all right." He said, with a brisk shake of his head. "You're a strange boy, Ukitake. A very strange boy, with strange ways, manners and beliefs that I don't fully understand. Ryuu speaks well of you always, and I have never known him to be charmed by anyone of lower birth before, under any circumstance whatsoever. For that reason you make me curious – training you has maybe made me more so, since I can't find that there's any trick or scheme to your actions or your ability. You are that odd thing – an enigma – and I have this feeling that I will see more of you even when I have left the Academy. Sensei intends you to be ranked and seated among his fledgling Gotei 12 – of that I am absolutely sure."

He smiled.

"And when that happens, I will be the one who first trained you." He added. "So from you, Senpai is more than enough."

Juushirou looked startled for a moment, then he returned the smile with a sheepish grin.

"I hope I'm not going to disappoint everyone's expectations." He admitted. "People keep predicting that I'll do these wild and incredible things and they don't realise that for me it's not as easy or clear-cut as that. I make a lot of mistakes, Senpai. I'll no doubt make a lot more. But Sensei has hopes invested in me. Now you do too. And my family, of course – I want to make them proud most of all."

He sighed, flopping back against his pillow, then,

"Tomorrow I'll not shame anyone." He said frankly. "Whatever questions they ask, I'll answer. However they expect me to be, I'll be. I won't let the people down who've worked to get me here, Senpai – don't worry about that."

"Are you finally going to go to sleep now, then?" Shirogane arched an eyebrow, and Juushirou nodded.

"I guess so." He agreed ruefully. "I'm sorry for keeping you up."

"I suppose I should expect it, considering that my student is such a beginner at such social situations." Shirogane shrugged carelessly, reaching out a long and elegant finger to brush against and dim the kidou lamp. "Tomorrow, then. Good night, Ukitake."

"Good night, Senpai. And thank you. I think I'll be all right now."

Juushirou settled himself more comfortably, pulling his blanket up over his shoulders as he closed his eyes. At the back of his awareness he could feel the buzzing presence of his sword's spirit – and despite himself he felt comforted.

Because I'm not alone tomorrow, am I? Shunsui and Hirata and everyone might be back in District One right now, and that might seem miles away. But Nagoya-senpai is with me. And so are you – aren't you, In'you? You promised I'd never be alone, and that you'd always be with me. Tomorrow we're going to show everyone that fact – all right? Tomorrow…when the Council of Elders first get to see Sougyo no Kotowari.

---

"Step forward."

Juushirou swallowed hard, obediently taking a few paces into the chamber and then stopping, dropping down into a formal bow as Shirogane had instructed him to do before they had left their quarters that morning. Behind him, he was aware of his senpai following suit and the oppressive formality of the chamber seemed all around them.

They had left their chamber early, with a quick breakfast that somehow Juushirou had managed to choke down. He would need his strength today, he knew that, and had been grateful for the fact that the meal had consisted simply of grilled fish and o-chazuke. Even so, it had been hard going, and it had been almost a relief when Shirogane had got to his feet, telling him it was time to go.

A guard had been waiting for them, as if sent to summon them into the lion's den, and he had exchanged a few words with Shirogane before leading the both of them along the narrow, white-paved walkway towards the Council Chambers. All around them, the streets were silent, and Juushirou wondered if even the birds dared to fly here in such an exalted place.

Once they had reached the huge doors of the chamber, Shirogane had pushed his student forward, murmuring to him once more not to forget his obeisance, and then the huge divides had swung back to reveal a gaping chasm of light beyond.

It was the most immense room that Juushirou had ever seen, and terror had gripped hold of him afresh at the sight.

The echoing command from within had given him no chance to turn or flee, however. The time was upon them, and he could only go forward.

For a moment, a heavy silence hung over the whole room, thick enough that Juushirou felt sure that he would soon run out of air to breathe. Then,

"Nagoya Shirogane – stand."

The voice was commanding and electric, its tones carrying despite the moderation of volume being used. From his crouched position, Juushirou snuck a peek through the flopping fringe of his growing hair, making out the speaker hazily as he did so. The man was dressed impeccably in robes of cream and green, with a white woven scarf of considerably expensive appearance at his throat. Sleek black hair trickled over the shoulders of what Juushirou belatedly realised was a ceremonial haori – pearl white in colour and silken in design – and the young boy could just make out something white in the man's hair, holding the locks back from his face in a rigid, formal style. His complexion was as fair as Shirogane's own, and his slate grey eyes, cool and uncompromising, glittered with the confidence of one who knew he was superior and had every ability to back it up.

This was Kuchiki Guren, Fifteenth Head of the Kuchiki-ke, Fourth Head of District Six, and currently, the chair of the Council of Elders.

Juushirou swallowed hard.

This was the man about whom Ryuu had often spoken with pride…but more, this was the man who held the lives of Juushirou's own family firmly in his hands.

Behind him, Shirogane had got respectfully to his feet, and though Juushirou could not see him, he knew the older boy's head was still bowed in reverence to the man he would one day call Captain as well as Uncle.

"You are representing the Academy today, is that not correct, as senior student and Anideshi?" Guren's voice cut through the room once more like a knife, his intonation austere but yet not affected by his high level of birth. It would be a pleasant sound, Juushirou reflected ruefully, if every note of it did not pierce through his heart with fear.

"Yes, Guren-sama."

"From Yamamoto Genryuusai Shigekuni-sama – what message do you bring?"

"I bring a student to be presented for the Council's honoured ratification, Guren-sama." Shirogane's tones were even and calm, his language polite and distant although he was addressing someone with whom he shared a close blood bond. "Genryuusai-sama has charged me with bringing him before you – with the instruction that the Council is to examine him and judge him at will, in accordance with the regulations by which we all are judged."

"And you have personal knowledge of this boy, Shirogane?"

"Yes, Guren-sama. I have trained him thus far myself."

"And you believe that he is worthy to be examined today?"

"Yes, Guren-sama." There was no hesitation in Shirogane's voice. "I believe that he is, and carry Genryuusai-sama's assertions of the same."

"Then we will hear his case." Guren nodded, a fleeting gesture of his hand indicating for Shirogane to step aside.

"Student of the Academy – stand and raise your gaze to mine. I wish to speak to you direct."

"Yes, sir." Juushirou jerked to attention, getting to his feet and meeting the slate grey gaze with some amount of trepidation.

"Your name, boy?"

"Ukitake Juushirou, sir."

"And your place of origin?"

"District Six, sir."

"District Six." Guren's dark brows knitted together, then,

"You are, then, under the auspices of my Clan, the Kuchiki?"

"Yes, sir. I am."

"I see."

Guren was silent for a moment longer, then he nodded.

"Your name is Ukitake." He reflected. "I have heard that name before."

Juushirou bit his lip, as a long pause followed that statement. Then, at length,

"Tell me, boy. Your father was Ukitake Hidenobu – was he not?"

"Yes, sir." Surprise flooded Juushirou's features, and Guren nodded a second time.

"I see." He said, his tones suddenly grave. "Very well."

He paused, then,

"What age are you, Ukitake Juushirou?"

"Eighteen, sir."

"And you understand, I presume, the reason you are summoned here today?"

"Yes, sir." Juushirou bowed his head once more. "To be examined by the Council regarding the summoning of my zanpakutou."

"You have achieved this, then?"

"Yes sir."

"And you are ready and willing to display this fact before three select members of the Council, in a formal examination?"

"Y..yes, sir."

"Then we will proceed."

Guren raised his hand, and two black-clad individuals hurried forward to pull back dividing doors that till that moment Juushirou had not even perceived were there. This observation was soon forgotten, however, as he heard Shirogane's hiss of,

"Bow your head!"

And realised that the other members of the Council of Elders were about to make their appearance.

Juushirou did so, peeking out once more at the soberly dressed individuals that now filed into the room from the left and right of Kuchiki Ginrei's elevated seat.

From the left they were led by a man who was of height and build enough to be easily recognisable as a kinsman of Enishi's, his broad frame striding forward with pride and determination. His hair was grey and straggled down his back in a long tail, and his eyebrows were as bushy as Genryuusai's own. Somehow, in the tension of the situation this struck Juushirou as funny, and he fought against the urge to smile as he watched Yamamoto Hashihiko take his seat. Hashihiko was the current head of the Yamamoto family, he knew – but his exact kinship to Genryuusai he did not. Yet even though Genryuusai was known as the most powerful member of the Yamamoto Clan, Juushirou could tell just by a glance that this tall, grey and black robed figure was no weakling. His ceremonial haori hung over his wide shoulders almost as though it had been stretched to fit there, and only the substantial wedge of a distinctive zanpakutou hilt managed to prevent Juushirou from turning the man into a comical caricature of a Shinigami on duty.

Behind him, and looking ever more elegant and nimble for her well-built companion was the familiar form of Shihouin Midori, robed in black and gold with her haori delicately slipped over the top and her thick violet hair bound in a neat tail by a gilted clasp bearing the crest of the Shihouin-ke. As she caught his glance, she offered him a mischievous smile, and somehow comforted by this show of camaraderie, Juushirou managed the faintest of ones in return.

The tall, lanky figure that followed Midori was obviously an Urahara, his straw-fair hair confined in black clasps in an obvious attempt to tame it, although, Juushirou realised, the effort had still largely failed. Something in the man's appearance reminded him of the now graduated Yunosuke, yet his pale eyes were much more serious and partly hidden behind his glasses. In his shadow was a younger man, clearly his kinsman, and Juushirou was reminded of their earlier conversation back at school about the Council. Probably his companion was the heir to the Urahara family, he reflected, coming to the court to learn from experience about how the Council worked.

There was no representative from the Unohana Clan present today, and Juushirou realised with a jolt that the meeting had likely been convened simply to ratify zanpakutou. Perhaps it was entirely for his benefit, he reflected, somehow unnerved by the way that idea made him feel.

From the right hand door, a dark haired woman with bright green eyes was leading the way forward, offering him a wink and a grin as she passed him, and with a jolt Juushirou realised this casual, yet imposing individual was Sora's mother, the redoubtable Kyouki of the Shiba-ke. Behind her was an old man – old, yet not elderly – and gazing at him as carefully as he could from his awkward position, Juushirou realised that there was a distinct difference between the two terms. He was wizened, true – though not like Genryuusai was, and it seemed more like the cares of a thousand battles had taken its toll on his appearance over the years he had been in government. His haori hung heavily against his muscled body, yet he was not built in the same wall-like manner as his colleague from the Yamamoto. He was tall, but not overbearing, and in his pale eyes was a hardness that Juushirou found himself chilled by. There was no smile on this man's face, and Juushirou knew only too well why not.

This man was Endou Shouichi, Hirata's grandfather and head of District Seven.

In his stead came another man, resembling him enough to mark them out as kin, yet to Juushirou's surprise and relief it was not Seimaru who stood in the old man's shadow. This was an older man – old enough to be Seimaru's father – and at that thought, Juushirou chewed on his lip, taking in the stranger's appearance as if seeing him anew.

Endou Misashi-sama. Hirata's father. Oh, then the stories are true. He is all right. And more, Shouichi-sama is bringing him into the Council these days. Oh, I'm glad. I can tell Hirata myself, then – that I've seen his father, and that he's okay.

He eyed Misashi carefully. True, he conceded, there were as many elements of the hard-nosed old man in his features as there were the more retiring features that characterised his young friend. But unlike Shouichi, his eyes were not hard. And unlike Shouichi, he was not avoiding making eye contact with the District boy, instead offering him a glance and, quite possibly, the faintest of faint smiles.

At the rear was a familiar figure, and one whose presence gave Juushirou a sudden swell of comfort as the Clansman sent him a warm grin.

Tokutarou was unable to judge zanpakutou. Shirogane had said it, and Juushirou had already known it to be the case. There was no reason for him to be present – and yet, somehow Juushirou knew that he had come on Shunsui's asking, because Shunsui had not been able to attend the meeting himself.

For my sake, to give me courage – so I know I'm really not alone. Thank you, Shunsui. Thank you, Tokutarou-sama. You don't know how much it's reassured me, to see friendly faces even here.

At length, all the peers were seated, and Guren cast a glance around.

"Ukitake Juushirou has been presented to the Council by Yamamoto Genryuusai Shigekuni-sama, to be examined as per our requirements regarding zanpakutou." He said quietly. "He has been trained by my kinsman, for whose honour and word I will vouch. He will therefore be examined here today in accordance with the normal rules. So has requested Yamamoto Genryuusai Shigekuni-sama. So the Council will agree. Raise your head, Ukitake. You may now face your superiors and hear their words."

"Wait a minute." The old man raised his hand, shooting Juushirou a glance of dislike. "This child is not Clan, Guren-dono. Surely there is a mistake, to have one such as this brought before our revered Council in such a manner?"

"Don't be so fussy, Shouichi-sama." Before Guren could respond, Kyouki snorted, shaking her head in apparent amusement at the old man's prejudice. "When we voted to let District children enter the Academy, we voted for this situation to one day occur. It has come more quickly, perhaps, than we all expected – but that doesn't mean that the boy is at fault for studying his lessons well."

"I did not vote for any such change." Shouichi said gruffly, and Juushirou had the distinct impression that if looks could have killed, he would have quickly been dead.

"A majority decision is a majority decision, Shouichi-sama." The interjection was quiet, but forceful, and Juushirou knew it had come from Shunsui's older brother. "The Council elected to allow District children academic rights in Shinigami skills by a then majority of three to two with two abstentions. The Shihouin-ke and Urahara-ke have since both shifted their stance to being in favour of such an experiment, with the Kuchiki-ke still in abstention. On those grounds, we must entertain a District candidate in this manner. Otherwise we would be denying democracy."

"Democracy does not exist for the convenience of the peasantry." Shouichi snapped back. "And you have no reason to be here, Tokutarou! You are not Gotei and this business is nothing to do with you!"

"Tokutarou-dono is a member of the Council of Elders." That was Urahara Nagesu. "As such, Shouichi-dono, his presence here is explained."

"It is not explained." Shouichi grumbled. "He has never before attended an examination meeting – I find it suspect that this time he chooses to show his face."

"This isn't a matter for personal politics, Shouichi-sama." Kyouki cut across before Tokutarou could respond. "My kinsman came because he was curious. I too am curious. Before us stands something we have never before seen. Don't you want to see history made here, right in front of your eyes?"

"Or time wasted by an ingrate who would do better keeping his boundaries and not interfering in what he can't understand." Shouichi muttered.

Guren raised his hand to indicate an end to the discussion.

"By the promise we gave Yamamoto Genryuusai Shigekuni-sama, we are bound by the Council's honour to receive all such students of the Academy, whatever their level of birth." He said quietly. "I do not know whether or not I agree or disagree with the concept, Shouichi-dono. Certainly, my Clan and I are still undecided about the potential that these lower born individuals might provide. However, I believe in honouring our word. And therefore, we will examine him as we would any other sent to us from District One's Academy."

"There is a caveat stipulation, of course, Guren-sama." That was Urahara Nagesu once again, in his even, measured tones. "Or are we to examine District individuals irrespective of where they make their home? My Clan has shifted its stance in favour – as well you know – but on the understanding that all District applicants who seek to bear arms in their home territory do so with the knowledge and permission of their ruling Clan. Their pedigree must still be known to us, for the safety of all who live in our Districts, and that being the case…"

He trailed off, and Juushirou got the distinct impression there was a hidden meaning in his words.

"This boy is District Six." Guren said simply, as if answering Nagesu's unspoken question. "I have given the instruction to examine him. Therefore, I think, my consent to allow his being here is implicit. He has been trained by a Kuchiki – therefore I believe he will pose no harm to the people in my domain."

Juushirou's eyes widened at this revelation.

Did Sensei do that on purpose too, then? To give me to Nagoya-senpai to train because he knew that if Nagoya-senpai did train me, the head of the Kuchiki-ke would look on me more favourably?

"You are from District Six, boy?" Nagesu was asking him a specific question now, piercing eyes peering at him through the lenses of his glasses, and Juushirou pulled his wits hurriedly back together, bowing his head slightly towards the representative of Third District as he did so.

"Yes, sir. I am."

"And can you verify that fact?" Shouichi demanded. "Sixth borders Seventh. You might easily have crossed the divide."

"I can speak for him in this regard, Guren-sama." Tokutarou raised his voice now, and Guren cast him a quizzical glance.

"My brother has been to his family's land, and knows it well now." Tokutarou said quietly. "The Ukitake-ke live at the coast, near the border with Fifth District. He is indeed a citizen of your land."

Guren's lips twitched into a faint smile.

"I see." He murmured. "So the boy has the backing of your Clan too, then, Tokutarou-dono?"

"My brother considers him a close friend…if you consider that backing, then yes, I suppose so."

Guren nodded.

"As it happens, I am already familiar with the name Ukitake." He said frankly. "I am a Kuchiki, and my family hold records of all who live in the District. I know of a family by this name who live in the region Tokutarou-dono has specified. This boy is the son of Ukitake Hidenobu, a man who is known to my family through distant channels. I have accepted his word, and I have given my permission for him to be presented here. That discussion is now at an end."

"Guren-dono…"

"I have said it is at an end, Shouichi-dono." Guren's eyes became cold, and Juushirou saw his fingers hover towards the hilt of his blade. "While I hold the chair of the Council, I will not tolerate you speaking back against me in such a manner. The boy is under my jurisdiction. You will not supersede it."

Shouichi's eyes became slits.

"Very well." He said slowly. "But if that is the case, I wish to examine him. I want to be named as one of the three witnesses, Guren-dono – so as I can see there is nothing untoward going on."

"Granted." Guren nodded, and Juushirou's heart froze in his chest at this quick, casual confirmation. "Genryuusai Shigekuni-sama has requested as much himself, in fact – that you be one of the three chosen to examine this child's sword."

Sensei did? Why would he do that?

Panic rushed through Juushirou's body at this.

Surely he knows that Shouichi-sama hates District children – that in District Seven they are still being killed for having spiritual power? Surely he knows that…then why?

"Who else will examine him, Guren-sama? Has Genryuusai-sama made other stipulations?" Midori spoke up at that point, her words clear and concise, yet carrying a faint edge to them, and Guren shot her an annoyed look.

"Genryuusai-sama has left the rest to our judgement – however, you will not be included." He said dismissively. "Your brother is, I believe, also a friend of this boy…and you have had contact with him before. You are therefore biased in this matter."

"Whilst your kinsman here has trained him." Midori returned sweetly, waving a hand in Shirogane's direction, and Juushirou could sense the bristling annoyance from the older student at the gesture. "So you are also omitted – based on your own evidence."

"I will oversee, but will not examine. As chair of the Council that is my duty – but you are right. I am not objective." Guren agreed. "I will uphold the laws of this Council, Midori-dono. You need not worry about that."

His eyes flitted back to Juushirou.

"The other examiners will be Shiba Kyouki-dono and Urahara Nagesu-dono." He said quietly. "Urahara Shiketsu-dono and Endou Misashi-dono may attend, but are forbidden from taking part in the examination in any regard. All other members of the Council must recess until the examination is over."

He got to his feet.

"Shirogane, that also applies to you." He added. "You will not be needed as a prompt or helper for your student now – if you have trained him enough, he will no longer need your assistance."

"Yes, Guren-sama." Shirogane bowed his head.

"Then the examination will begin." Guren gestured, and the black-clad individuals ran forward to re-open the doors. "Midori-dono, Tokutarou-dono, Hashihiko-dono – please be at ease until the procedure is complete."

"With pleasure, Guren-sama." Midori said playfully. "Good luck, Juushirou. Though somehow I don't believe you need it."

With that they were gone, and Juushirou swallowed hard, trying to control the terror that now welled up inside of him.

Remember In'you. In'you is always with me. Even if everyone else is gone…In'you is always here. We work together. Together we can get through this. Together we can. Somehow.

"You look apprehensive, Juushirou-kun."

Kyouki's words drew him from his thoughts and he turned, eying her in consternation. At his expression, she laughed, shaking her head in amusement.

"We won't eat you. At least, I promise I won't. You're not a criminal about to face justice, after all." She said breezily. "You came here to present your sword for our approval. So long as you've achieved a state of release with it, then you have nothing to worry about. The Council will ratify any blade – even if it isn't one from a Clan child."

"You shouldn't make free promises, Kyouki-dono." Shouichi rumbled. "I have yet to see any evidence of this creature producing anything of any value whatsoever."

"Surely you can sense his reiatsu, Shouichi-sama?" Kyouki's eyes became wide with surprise. "Even controlled as it is, you must realise that he has potential."

"Many children might have potential…we're here to judge the actualities, not the possibilities." Nagesu said frankly. "While I share your curiosity and interest, Kyouki-sama – just because he is the first youngster from outside the Clan to stand before the Council like this should not make our judgement more lenient."

"Nor should it make it more difficult." Kyouki said with a shrug. "If Genryuusai-sama sees something of value here, I too am willing to see it with open eyes. I have no preconceptions, Nagesu-dono. Just as you do – I want to see the facts, too."

"So long as that is understood by all of us." Nagesu adjusted his glasses, then, "Boy, your name is Ukitake, correct?"

"Yes, sir."

"And the name of your weapon?"

"Sougyo no Kotowari, sir."

"Sougyo no…Kotowari?" Shouichi frowned. "What sort of a name is that?"

"The name of the sword isn't the boy's fault, Shouichi-sama." Kyouki said lightly. "Well, Ukitake? Can you explain to us, then, the power that resides in your blade?"

"I…it's hard to properly know for sure, Kyouki-sama." Juushirou admitted hesitantly. "The name…Sougyo means 'twin fish'…and…my sword's spirit is…two fish. In'you. They…"

"You have fish swimming around in your head?" Shouichi demanded, and at his right side, Juushirou saw Misashi flinch slightly at the blunt rudeness of his father's interruption. "Two fish? Two spirits?"

"N…No, sir." Juushirou shook his head slowly. "The sword has…one spirit. One spirit…with…two consciousnesses."

"What is he talking about?" Shouichi grimaced. "Nagesu! You understand all the theories and claptrap – is what he's saying possible? Or is this a ruse designed by Genryuusai-sama to vex us?"

"I have never encountered a sword with twin consciousnesses before." Nagesu said frankly, but his intense eyes were now burning with curiosity. "Ukitake, please, I would like to observe your weapon for myself."

"Yes, sir." Juushirou drew the blade self-consciously from its makeshift sheath, holding it out for the Urahara to take. Nagesu frowned, running his finger over the glittering metal, then,

"Tell us how you understand your power to be." He said softly.

Juushirou frowned.

"Sensei and I have talked about this a lot." He admitted. "And Nagoya-senpai and I have done so too. We think…I think…that the blade is…is storm and sea. That it has…two facets. And…two blades."

"Two blades?" Shouichi snorted. "Then where is the other? Did you leave it behind?"

"Ukitake?" Kyouki shot him a quizzical look. "Shouichi-sama is right – if there are two blades, where is the other?"

"They…there's only one right now, Kyouki-sama." Juushirou bit his lip. "I…it isn't always two blades. Just…"

"When you feel like it?" Shouichi sighed heavily. "There are no double zanpakutou, boy. A blade is a blade. A single weapon. A single consciousness. A single sword. You cannot expect us to believe otherwise – that weapon of yours is just one sword – and a fairly ordinary looking sword to me."

"Then perhaps Ukitake can show us what he means, if he cannot tell us." Nagesu held the blade out. "Please, Ukitake. Show us how your weapon is two bladed, even when it is one."

"Y…yes, sir."

Juushirou nodded, taking back the zanpakutou and gripping it firmly in his right hand. He took a deep breath, steadying his racing heart, then placing his left hand flat against the weapon's guard.

In'you, if you're listening, now I need you more than ever.

As a faint haze of golden light began to gather itself around the palm of his hand, he sent an inner plea to his sword's spirits for support.

Now I have to do this…and properly, the first time. Even though my heart is beating fit to burst – please, don't let me lose control and cause an explosion. Help me control it – help me do this right.

We're part of your will, Juushirou. What you want to happen will. Just call our name and all will be well.

Right.

Juushirou closed his eyes, then,

"Nami kotogotoku, wa ga tate to nare."

He muttered, aware that the glitter of light had now trickled up across the whole blade, illuminating it in a sudden, golden flare.

Do it calmly. Calmly. Calm enough to keep control – don't let it slip, just as Sensei told you.

He reeled in his reiatsu before it could sweep out of control, sensing the separation of spirit particles beneath his touch as one weapon began to split into two, their hilts connected by a pulse of irridescent reiryoku that condensed little by little into what appeared to be a cord of light.

"Ikazuchi kotogotoku, wa ga yaiba to nare."

He whispered, a jolt flicking through him as the two blades separated themselves fully from one another, morphing and changing their physical shape. Instead of the plain, deceptively simple looking katana that he had carried through the security checks the day before, the weapons he now held hummed with energy and life, their tips sharp and glittering and, flicked back at about halfway between guard and tip, a second blade jutted out almost like a fin - a representation of the twin fish that had given his weapon its true name.

As he felt the controlled surge of reiatsu well up within his body, he took a deep breath, then,

"Sougyo no…Kotowari!"

As he called his sword's true name, clear and crisp across the high-ceilinged Council chamber, he drew the weapons across one another, and the thread of reiryoku tightened and flexed, five links of silver glittering out across its length. A giddy feeling shot through him, and he took another breath to steady himself, knowing that at that moment his senses were as alert as they had been the first time he had managed to part his blades.

Yet unlike that time, this time he had somehow managed to keep it under his control.

"Two blades." Nagesu murmured, his expression now one of fascination. "From one. Just as the boy said."

"I've never seen a zanpakutou like it." Kyouki's eyes were also big with curiosity. "I can see why you struggled to explain it, Ukitake. It is unusual for a weapon to split at all, but into two very separate blades…and blades that are so distinctive, too."

"Your release was a long one. Does it take you so long to summon and control your reiryoku?" Nagesu asked, and Juushirou nodded.

"I'm still learning a lot about that, sir." He agreed, realising that the Urahara's reticence had now been replaced by genuine interest. "Sensei says it's because I have quite high reiryoku – and because he believes my blades represent those two elements; waves and lightning."

"Nami and Ikazuchi. Just as you said." Kyouki murmured. "And when you released them, for a moment, I felt it. Something touched my senses – like waves lapping against the shore."

"I felt it, also." Nagesu admitted. "And the way those weapons look now - two swords, quite definitely. When I held the weapon just now, what swirled within it was indistinct and unclear. Now, however, I think I begin to see. Your sword is one spirit, but it has two facets nonetheless. Fascinating."

"Impossible you might have said it was, Shouichi-sama – but the boy has proved at least in my mind that he not only has a zanpakutou, but a powerful one that he can release." Kyouki added.

Shouichi's eyes narrowed to near slits, and at first he did not answer. Then he raised a battle-scarred hand, twitching his index finger in the boy's direction.

"Hadou no Yon: Byakurai." He rumbled, and Juushirou's heart skipped a beat as the flare of Kidou shot out across the chamber, sharp and crisp as it broke through the heavy atmosphere and zig-zagged right towards his body. In that instant Juushirou realised that while Seimaru had little interest or aptitude for the demon arts, Shouichi did not view magic in the same light, and though it was a simple, basic spell, there was a considerable amount of intent behind its thrust.

For a moment fear paralysed him. Then at the back of his thoughts he felt the faintest crackle of lightning against a summer sky, and he screwed up his eyes, instinctively pushing his crossed blades forwards to block the attack as best he could.

As he did so, a gasp came from Kyouki's corner, and Juushirou opened his eyes slowly, a sudden surge of heat and power clattering against his own reiatsu as Shouichi's spell made contact with the weapon. Yet even as it touched the metal, Juushirou felt the intent behind the spell dissipating almost in an instant. The white-gold prickles of light that danced across the metal were not scars taken from Shouichi's attack, but instead the instinctive flickers of the zanpakutou's own native spirit – the secret storm that his spirit power had summoned at least three times before.

Don't be afraid, Juushirou. Lightning can't hurt you. You are lightning, when we are with you.

In's voice was soft and soothing to his shattered wits, yet sweat still beaded his brow as he realised Shouichi's attack had awoken the weapon's own latent attacking impulses. With some effort he lowered his blades, gritting his teeth as his feeble body struggled to keep the rebellious flares of reiryoku in check.

"That was an unfair blow, Shouichi-sama." Nagesu's tone was full of censorship.

"I am within my rights, Nagesu. The boy's blade may be tested by whatever means we see fit." Shouichi snapped back. "Do not think to discipline your elder – I know what I do."

"But the sword absorbed it." Kyouki whispered. "Or at least, dispelled the force of its attack. Your Kidou is not weak, Shouichi-sama. We'll all testify to that, having seen it on many occasions prior. But never have I seen a student's blade react so to Byakurai fired at any level. To meet your attack was one thing. To dispel it so easily using bare instinct alone…"

She trailed off, and Nagesu got to his feet, approaching the shaking Juushirou slowly.

Gently he rested a hand on the boy's shoulder.

"You said your power was storm and sea." He murmured. "Now I feel the storm brewing, as well as the waves. I understand, Ukitake – even if I'm not sure you fully do, yet. Tell me, how is your own Kidou? Do you like it? Or do you avoid it as much as you can?"

"I…I enjoy Kidou, sir." Somehow Juushirou found words, though it felt like a ball of cotton wool had lodged itself in his throat and his body was racing from hot to cold. "At school…it is…my strongest subject."

"I see." Nagesu nodded. "And Byakurai? You can fire this spell?"

"Yes sir."

"Well, I would have thought it came naturally to you." Nagesu looked thoughtful. "To my mind you have told us everything you believe to be true about your power, and have done nothing to cause me to doubt your word. Your storm is immature and even now you are struggling to keep it in check. But a storm you have, and a raging sea besides. You are quite an interesting young man, Ukitake Juushirou. I understand why Genryuusai-sama sent you to see us."

"It seems Shirogane-kun has finally found his vocation for training, too." Kyouki turned to offer the silently watching Guren a rueful smile. "Well, Shouichi-sama? Are you going to stand against the evidence we've all seen here and still maintain that the boy's sword cannot be ratified? Nagesu-sama and I are clearly in support of Genryuusai-sama's request. Guren-sama has witnessed the test and can be in no two minds about its results. Will you still stand against us, even so?"

Shouichi stood silent for a moment, and Juushirou saw the look of dark hatred that crossed the old man's gaze. Then, just as the atmosphere seemed about to become too oppressive for the young boy to breathe, the Endou leader sighed.

"I do not approve of this." He said quietly. "It goes against my grain as an Endou to show support to one like him."

"But this is not District Seven, Shouichi-dono." Guren interjected quietly at this moment. "This is Inner Seireitei and neutral territory. Therefore here your Clan laws do not apply…only Council Law must be brought to bear on this proceeding. You understand those laws, I think – and now you are called on as a member of that Council to pass judgement according to their stipulations."

The Kuchiki's words were calm and reasoned, yet they carried a message, and Shouichi bristled, turning to glare at the fine-robed Clan leader as he did so.

"I understand better than you do, Guren-dono, what my obligations are to this Council." He said blackly. "Since I have sat on it for longer than you have and have passed more judgements than anyone else here present today. I know my duty."

"In that case, I will hear judgement of the witnesses." Guren said mildly. "Shiba Kyouki-dono – do you find this child's sword worthy of the Register of Zanpakutou?"

"Yes." Kyouki said firmly, winking at Juushirou as she did so. "I do."

"Urahara Nagesu-dono – do you find this child's sword worthy of the Register of Zanpakutou?"

"Yes." Nagesu nodded his head. "Without doubt, I do."

"Then, Endou Shouichi-dono – do you find this child's sword worthy of the Register of Zanpakutou?"

There was a lengthy silence, then Shouichi's lips thinned.

"His sword I do." He said finally. "And it is his sword I must judge – though the one who wields it brings me no cause for joy at all. I will not endorse District vermin as future saviours of this world – but it is the sword I must ratify, and ratify it I must."

"A simple 'Yes' will suffice, Shouichi-dono." Guren said patiently, and Shouichi glowered.

"Yes." He said grudgingly. "I do."

At his words, Juushirou's heart flip-flopped in his chest as he felt the pressure rushing out of his trembling body. He slipped to his knees, the hilts of his twin blades beginning to slide from between his sweaty fingers. Guren paid him no attention, however, merely nodding his head.

"Then it is confirmed by all three witnesses that the zanpakutou Sougyo no Kotowari is hereby registered with the Council of Elders, and Ukitake Juushirou shall be hereafter recognised as a valid member of the Brotherhood of Shinigami. Notice of this registration will hereto be sent out to Yamamoto Genryuusai Shigekuni-sama as well as to the Official Archives of Ukitake's resident District number Six, as held by my own Clan, the Kuchiki. This decision is finalised in the sight of Council Representatives of fair mind and judgement. Ukitake,"

His piercing eyes now focused in on Juushirou, who gazed up at him blankly.

"You are now bound to follow the laws set down for those entering the path of the Shinigami." He said softly, his gaze never leaving the young boy's face. "You will do no harm with your blade to any who follows the course of justice and you will use your strength always to uphold the rights of those you are here to protect. You will continue and complete your training under the auspices of Yamamoto Genryuusai Shigekuni-sama, who has claimed responsibility for you until such a time as you can be considered useful to Soul Society. Do you understand these constraints?"

"Y…yes, sir." Juushirou's mind was whirling, and Guren nodded.

"Then this morning's test is concluded." He said softly. "Congratulations, Ukitake. You have now taken the first formal step as a Shinigami on your path towards the Gotei."

"As a…Shinigami?" Juushirou repeated blankly, and Kyouki laughed.

"Only Shinigami bear zanpakutou." She said briskly. "By raising your sword, Ukitake, you've proven that you have the skill and potential to be counted among those ranks. You still have a long way to go – this is only as Guren-sama says – your very first step. Even from here to being able to use your blade constructively in shikai is going to be a hard path and you will have to work to the best of your ability to attain those standards for yourself. But for now, you should take pride in what you have done. Tokutarou told me that you would be the one to change the form of the Gotei, and I start to believe it's true. The power I saw today…I'm looking forward to it already. To the time when you reach the standard to enter the Twelve Squads of Seireitei and put that power to good use."

Somehow Juushirou pulled his wits together, bowing his head hurriedly.

"Thank you, Kyouki-sama." He said quietly. "I will work hard. I promise. I'll do my best not to let anyone down."

---

"Ukitake."

As Juushirou sat alone in the yard beyond the Central Complex, a voice startled him and he turned, surprise and consternation crossing his features as he registered the speaker.

"Misashi...sama." He murmured, and at the sound of his name, the older man smiled, bowing his head in acknowledgement.

"Then you do know already who I am." He observed quietly. "I wonder if that was your close attention to Guren-sama's words, or whether there might be another reason that you so speedily identify me, though we've never spoken before."

Juushirou reddened, shaking his head.

"I...I assumed." He admitted. "Because you were with...Shouichi-sama, sir. But I...thought you must be...Shouichi-sama's Lord son. And..."

"Are you afraid of me?" Misashi frowned, and Juushirou's eyes widened in surprise.

"Afraid, sir?"

"Or is it the forbidding presence of my Father that makes you so uncertain now?" Misashi's lips twitched into a smile, softening his hard Endou features, and despite himself, Juushirou found he was returning it with one of his own.

"I'm not afraid, sir." He said honestly. "I'm sorry. I just...didn't expect to be speaking to you, that's all."

"So I can imagine." Misashi leant up against the opposite wall, letting out a heavy sigh. "And I dare not linger here with you for too long. At present my father is involved in some long discussion with Hashihiko-sama about a complaint dear to his pride. I trust I have a little time - but even so, I will not push my luck. I simply wanted to congratulate you - and perhaps, ask of you a favour."

Juushirou frowned, taking in the other man's appearance carefully as he did so. In the light of day he realised that though Misashi was little older than his own Father had been when he died, the individual who stood before him had silver streaks through his thick dark hair, and the tension of his Clan's problems were etched clearly onto his face. Yet again Juushirou realised that the pale eyes were not piercing or accusatory, and he remembered Hirata's words about his father with sudden fond clarity as he understood Misashi's meaning.

"About Hirata?" He asked softly, and Misashi started, then nodded his head.

"I cannot see my son, thanks to the foolishness of my nephew." He said frankly. "This is no secret, after all. He caused grave injury to Tokutarou-sama's brother and heir, and for that reason our entire family are barred entrance to District One. Yet he is often in my thoughts, all the same."

"Hirata is quite well, Misashi-sama. I promise he is - and working hard at his training all the time." Juushirou responded. "I know he worries about his family - but I can tell him, now, that I saw you and that you were safe and well, sir."

"Will you carry to him a message for me?" Misashi asked, and Juushirou nodded.

"With pleasure." He agreed, and relief glittered in Misashi's expression.

"Thank you." He said sincerely. "I had heard bits and pieces from the scraps of other conversations and I know that my boy thinks a lot of you. You and he are good friends, I believe - and even though that knowledge would bring my Father no joy, I'm glad Hirata is not alone in his exile. He has always been a timid boy, though not lacking in power or intelligence. And it is hard to befriend anyone when you come from the high ranks of a ruthless Clan like ours."

Juushirou did not reply, and Misashi spread his hands.

"If you would tell him that I, and his mother and his sister are all well, and fighting hard to keep so, I would be grateful." He said quietly. "We are in no danger...Father has honoured his word to us and things are stable. He is not to worry...just to work hard and achieve what he needs to achieve on this path that he's chosen. I have faith that he will succeed."

"I will tell him." Juushirou promised.

"And also, perhaps, one other thing." Misashi became grave. "With this sword you now hold...will you promise me one more thing?"

"Misashi-sama?" Juushirou was taken aback, and Misashi offered him a sad smile.

"I cannot protect him, though there are always dangers threatening." He said softly. "It is a lot to ask of you, when you know nothing of me or of my motives. But if you are his friend...what I am going to ask may not seem so reckless or selfish a request."

He sighed heavily.

"Hirata will one day be strong, but right now he is still weak." He reflected. "My mother died before seeing that strength come to fruition, but we both believed in it and I still do. But such things take time and he still lacks training. There are those who would seek to snare and kill him. At all costs, he must not return to District Seven - yet I fear people may try to bring him back by force or by threat. If such things happen, Ukitake, as his friend...will you stand by him? Help him, if he has nobody else?"

Juushirou paled.

"You think...someone will...try to kill Hirata?"

"Hirata's life has been threatened many times in the past. Mine too, and my wife and daughter's." Misashi said evenly. "My Father is not Hirata's enemy, however. He has given his word and he will live and die by it, whatever else he may do. But he is not the only one who might cause a threat. I speak so plainly to you because I know, Ukitake, that you have met my nephew and that he has given you reason to dislike him. You are under no illusions, I think, about the true nature of our Clan's chief heir. If Hirata was to return home, he would be in grave danger. Please promise me you'll help to keep him safe?"

Juushirou nodded his head slowly.

"Hirata is my friend. He's almost like my brother." He said honestly. "And I'd always do whatever I could, Misashi-sama, if a friend was in trouble. But Hirata has more than just me to fight his cause. He'll be all right. I'm sure of it."

"I trust so." Misashi looked pained. "But it is wise to be sure. Will you promise me anyway, Ukitake? That if danger comes, I can rely on you at least to take his part?"

"You can." Juushirou made up his mind. "I would never abandon Hirata. I promise, Misashi-sama. Whether with Sougyo or not - I will."

"By standing before the Council today, you have already surpassed what I can do even to protect those I hold dearest." Misashi sighed. "To ask such a thing of a young boy and a stranger is not honourable or fair - and nor is airing such doubts about my family to someone outside the Clan. But even so...for Hirata's sake...and these days what honour the Endou ever had is somewhat in doubt, I fear."

"I don't think the Endou-ke are bad." Juushirou said softly. "Hirata isn't, and I know that you helped Midori-sama when she needed it, so I know you aren't bad either, Misashi-sama. And...and even though he dislikes District students, I think...Shouichi-sama is also someone who has honour and keeps his word. Though he disliked me, he still upheld the Council's law above his own prejudice. The Endou-ke are not a dishonourable Clan."

Misashi smiled.

"You do say surprising things. Midori-sama was right about that." He reflected. "But even so, your words reassure me. That you can say that, even after my Father treated you so rudely -thank you, Ukitake. I appreciate it...and I see why my boy takes so seriously having you as his friend."

"I don't think I'll ever forgive Seimaru-sama for hurting Shunsui with his zanpakutou." Juushirou admitted. "But that was something he did. It wasn't something your family did. And I don't...I don't believe that Clan is everything. I...I'm District and I suppose...such things aren't so important there. But I...think everybody is an individual. A Clan should be a family. Not...not a reputation."

He reddened, suddenly realising who he was speaking to, but Misashi laughed, clapping his hands down on the boy's shoulders.

"You really might change Seireitei, thinking and acting like that." He said warmly. "Very well. I will remember those words and take them home with me. I entrust my son to you, Ukitake - please help him as much as you can to become strong and able...and to raise a sword, just like you."

"Misashi-dono, I apologise for the interruption."

Tokutarou's distinctive tones cut through the conversation at that moment and Juushirou saw his companion suddenly tense as he took a step backwards, releasing his grip on the District boy's shoulders. He turned, bowing stiffly in the intruder's direction, and Juushirou bit his lip, glancing from one Clansman to the other.

"I believe it is I who is in the wrong place." Misashi spoke softly. "Forgive my presumptiousness, Tokutarou-sama. I have many things to see to, and I am no doubt impeding on your own duties by being here now."

Tokutarou frowned, and Juushirou saw the consternation deep in the older man's eyes. He shook his head.

"My fight - and my people's fight - is not with you." He said quietly. "You need not bow to me quite so humbly, Misashi-dono. My argument with your Clan stretches as far as those who make the decisions - and whilst you attend Council, I know that that is not you."

Misashi raised his head in surprise, and Tokutarou nodded.

"My brother is friends with your son, yet enemies with your nephew." He said simply. "Such is the situation in which we find ourselves."

Misashi pursed his lips, his gaze flitting to Juushirou, then,

"My loyalties are as my mother's were. To the stable future of my Clan." He said at length. "And to the protection and safety of my family - whatever that cost proves to be."

"Misashi-dono." As the other man turned to leave, Tokutarou stepped forward, putting his hand on the other's arm. Misashi glanced at him questioningly, and Juushirou saw Tokutarou's gaze make a quick, sweeping assessment of the area, to ensure that Shouichi was nowhere nearby.

"The flow of people into my land must stop. Even for the sake of defeating the rebel Urahara - it must stop." Tokutarou said softly, and Juushirou's ears pricked up at the sound of the name 'Urahara'. "You understand that, don't you?"

"It is not my action to take." Misashi replied levelly, shaking his head. "The man my Clan seek is more dangerous than any of the others - more so than many who attend this Council. We cannot stop looking for him. It would be in contravention of Council law if we did."

Tokutarou eyed him long and hard, and Misashi met the other man's gaze with a cool, impassive one of his own. Juushirou was struck at the difference - that the man who had clasped his shoulders and spoken to him with laughter should now seem so cold and so distant, as though the suffering of the thousands of refugees meant nothing to him in comparison to tracking down a lone villain.

The many facades of a Clansman, perhaps?

He chewed down on his lip.

But this is Hirata's father. And Hirata loves him and admires him more than anyone in the world. I trust Hirata, and he knows Misashi-sama better than I or than Tokutarou-sama does. So I'm going to believe...that he's a good person. And that what he said to me...was the truth.

Misashi bowed his head now.

"My son is no doubt in your brother's debt, and perhaps in yours as well." He said politely. "Perhaps that friendship may pave the way for better relations between our families."

"That would depend, I suppose, on whether or not your son remained an exile whilst your father and your nephew plot and scheme." Tokutarou responded, his tones equally as impassive. Juushirou had never seen the genial Tokutarou quite so formal or so angry before, and the storm brewing in the older man's eyes told him for the first time that Shunsui's brother was more than just his ally - he was a soldier and a Clan leader and even though his zanpakutou was of a low level, he was not afraid of making his opinions known.

"That decision is the province of the Yamamoto-ke. We have not exiled him." Misashi said mildly. "And I would thank you, Tokutarou-sama, for not judging my Father's actions when you do not fully understand them. He is not the danger you believe him to be...and I have more than outstayed my welcome."

He bowed his head, first to Tokutarou, then to Juushirou, and then turned, crossing the floor without even the slightest of glances back.

Tokutarou pursed his lips.

"I didn't expect him to come speak to you." He said softly, as soon as the other man was out of earshot. "In fact, I'm very surprised that he did. Had I realised his intention - I would have come to you sooner. I'm sorry, Ukitake. I hope he didn't say anything that made you ill at ease?"

"No. Not at all." Juushirou was surprised. "He...simply exchanged pleasantries. That's all. Since Hirata and I are friends...he just asked me to convey a message to him."

And asked me to promise to help keep Hirata safe, but Tokutarou-sama doesn't need to know about that. I somehow don't think he'd understand my reasons, after all.

"Oh. Then I guess that's all right then." Tokutarou looked relieved, clamping his hand down on Juushirou's shoulder. "To be honest, he's an enigma to me. I thought, at one point, he was a voice of sanity within District Seven. Now he's aligned himself so closely with his Father - I'm less sure what his motives are. And it makes me a touch uneasy...that things in District Seven are more unstable than I thought them to be."

Juushirou was silent, and Tokutarou shrugged his shoulders.

"In any case, enough politics. You must be tired." He said, offering the boy his usual warm smile. "You need something warm to eat and somewhere comfortable to sleep, I should think?"

"To...sleep?" Juushirou stared at him. "Am I not...supposed to go back to school now?"

"Do you feel like making the journey?" Tokutarou demanded, and Juushirou looked sheepish.

"I am tired. And hungry." He admitted. "And I ache quite a lot, too. I suppose...I'll pay for today, later. You may be right, Tokutarou-sama. But even so, I..."

"Genryuusai-sensei has entrusted you to me for tonight." Tokutarou assured him. "I know you travelled here with that Nagoya kid, but I also know that Guren-sama will want to speak to him about Clan and squad matters, since those are becoming ever more pressing. He'll spend the night with his people - and Genryuusai-sensei was quite agreeable when I suggested you came to my lodgings for the night. It's not as grand as the main manor, since this is Inner Seireitei and we all have only the necessary room space in which to make ourselves comfortable when we need them. But even so, you'd be more than welcome."

Juushirou offered him a faint smile.

"Shunsui asked you to look after me, didn't he?" He asked softly. "That's why you came - even though you can't take part in the judging and ratification. Isn't it?"

"He did ask." Tokutarou agreed. "But I was coming anyhow. When Kyouki-sama told me that you were the candidate - I made the decision right away."

"You did?" As they walked out towards Tokutarou's waiting carriage, Juushirou shot him a startled look. "But...why? I don't understand?"

"You're an interesting kid." Tokutarou's eyes twinkled. "Besides, you stood up to an Endou, and you lived. More, you've helped my brother turn himself around in so many ways and I'm grateful. The Shunsui District Eight now has is a completely different prospect to the one I used to be worrying about night and day...and whether you believe it or not, that's largely down to you. So it's a very little thing that I can do, really, to offer you food and hospitality and to show some support."

"I really don't think I've done all that much, Tokutarou-sama."

"Really? I wonder." As they reached the carriage, a smartly-dressed retainer saluted Tokutarou, then hurried to open the door. He did not cast Juushirou even the slightest of glances, as if it was completely normal for his master to be taking a District boy as his guest, and as Juushirou climbed carefully inside, he realised that, simple and small though it was, it was a far cry from the big, rattling communal carriages that he was used to taking from home to school.

This is what Mitsuki was talking about, too. We're only going a short distance, yet the seating is comfortable and the windows clear. Even though it's not fancy or ornate - it's what Mitsuki meant when she said a 'good carriage'. I don't think it would be so bad, travelling such long distances if the carriage was like this.

"Are you okay there?" Tokutarou pulled himself into the vehicle, dropping down opposite with a grin. "It's not far - a few blocks - but a Clan leader unfortunately has to keep up a certain amount of appearance. Besides, you do look tired - it won't hurt you to take the weight off your feet for a bit. Your sword is something quite exciting, so I'm told."

His grin widened.

"Kyouki-sama will be joining us for dinner, too." He added. "She's good at inviting herself to things when she's curious or interested, and I think she's taken a liking to you, too. But you needn't worry - she doesn't stand on ceremony any more than I do. Not even for being such a powerful Clanswoman - you really needn't worry about being overly formal."

"She reminded me a little bit of Sora." Juushirou murmured. "But she was kind to me, when I was raising my sword."

"Yeah. A lot of people say Sora is just like her, only with less of the administrative brain." Tokutarou nodded. "In truth, she's someone I'm very fond of - well, you'll probably understand why. My mother died when I was young, like yours did - Kyouki-sama filled that gap."

"Just like Okaasama did for me." Juushirou agreed. "Yes. I understand."

He smiled.

"I don't mind. You're being generous already, in helping me - it's quite a few hours ride to the Academy and I don't really feel like making that journey alone after the day I've had."

He stifled a yawn.

"I didn't sleep much last night for nerves, either. So thank you, Tokutarou-sama. I appreciate it."

"It's all right. Like I said, it's a very little thing, really."

Tokutarou pursed his lips, then,

"If you ever need a Clan to come to your aid, Juushirou, you can call on us." He said quietly, and Juushirou was aware of the sudden seriousness in the older man's tones. "It won't be easy for you - as a District boy, even with a zanpakutou...that probably makes you more of a target than it does anything else. You have a family who supports you, but even they could be put in danger if they tried to shield you from the world you're now starting to enter. It's a Clan world - and Genryuusai-sensei can only protect you from it so far."

Juushirou's eyes became grave, and he nodded.

"I know. I discovered that for myself last summer, when I faced Seimaru." He said honestly. "It was a foolish thing to do then, and I still think so now. I'm learning, but it's very complicated. And a lot of it doesn't make much sense."

"The Clans have their own way of doing things." Tokutarou grimaced. "Even my Clan is full of rules and regulations and things that I would quite happily bypass if I had the right - which even as Clan leader I do not. The rules of tradition and honour and the pride of the family...well, that's why I'm getting married, because as things stand some of my relatives still do not fully accept my half-Shiba blood. By marrying a true-blooded Kyouraku, my children, hopefully, won't face the same dilemma. That's how things tend to roll, when you're in that kind of position."

"Shunsui told me about your engagement." Juushirou smiled. "Congratulations."

"Well, I'm fortunate." Tokutarou looked rueful. "Arranged marriages can be the stuff of nightmares, but fortunately Rae-hime is Yoshiko-dono's niece, and therefore, has common sense and logic as well as the right pedigree. No, I think it will work out very well, and she and Shunsui appear to be getting along just fine, too. It will be a relief to have it formally settled - yes, I'm fortunate, Juushirou. Not all Clan marriages are as free of complication as mine looks likely to be."

"Even in the Districts, that can happen." Juushirou glanced out of the window, a thoughtful look in his eyes. "I decided I wouldn't marry, because of that. Because it would be complicated and it would only bring my family bad luck. So it's not just the Clans, Tokutarou-sama. People do marry in the Districts for reasons relating to family or economics, too."

"No doubt they do everywhere." Tokutarou said wisely. "Although believing you'd bring bad luck is a little extreme, if I may say so."

"No..not really." Juushirou shrugged. "I'm the eldest in my family, and my siblings are all really close to me. But I'm also the only one who was born with the family's chronic disease - and because of it, my health and future have always been uncertain. Those born like me often don't have children who survive, after all - and...well, they themselves don't often live all that long, either."

Tokutarou stared at him, visibly taken aback, and Juushirou nodded.

"Even now, I don't know what my life expectancy is." He said frankly, shrugging his shoulders. "I've made up my mind to work hard and to fight it, and so far I'm succeeding - that learning to be a Shinigami is helping me to make myself stronger and maybe, eventually, strong enough to stop the haibyou threatening my life. But it's not the kind of thing I'd wish on a wife or children. So that's why. Genryuusai-sensei's Academy was a solution to the problem - and I'm more than happy with focusing my attention on that."

Tokutarou eyed him keenly for a moment, and then he sighed.

"Shunsui had mentioned your health was a bit uneven, and Sora, too. " He said at length. "But I didn't realise it was quite so severe. There's no active cure for it...for this...haibyou you mentioned? Not even if you were to consult Clan specialists?"

"Unohana Retsu-sensei says there's no cure." Juushirou shook his head. "But it's all right. I'm used to it - it's always been a part of me, after all."

He smiled.

"You don't need to look so worried, Tokutarou-sama." He added. "Though I appreciate that you are. I'm not someone who easily gives up - so I doubt it's going to kill me all that easily."

"Mm." Tokutarou offered him a rueful grin. "Somehow I find that I believe you. And I'm glad, too. Shunsui is very fond of you, after all - and Seireitei needs people like you to put the cat among the pigeons and shake up this sluggish, old Gotei system into something worthwhile. You're the first, but you won't be the last District Shinigami and I'm glad about that. I think it's the best thing for everyone - that those with talent are allowed to exploit it. And those, like me, who are less concerned with zanpakutou...we should be able to get on with the other duties ascribed us."

"But you do have a zanpakutou, don't you, Tokutarou-sama?"

"I do." Tokutarou confirmed. "But it's not really of much note. It's seen more battle in open swordplay than it has any kind of spiritual awakening. I'm not a Shinigami by nature, Juushirou. Those talents fall to my brother - well, as I'm sure you already know."

"Shunsui is...very talented." Juushirou looked thoughtful, sitting back against the carriage seat as he considered this. "Though he doesn't always use all of that talent, even so he's ahead of most of the class in most respects."

"Shunsui is his father's son. But slowly, I think, he's growing out of it." Tokutarou said evenly. "I loved my father a good deal, Juushirou - and still respect him for the man he was before his world started to fall apart. Shunsui never knew that man - nor really how much he lost from not knowing him. But my Father made that choice. He sent me away to be raised in a place where I couldn't be manipulated as a political tool. And he avoided contact with Shunsui so as not to taint him - he felt we were both better off without his influence in our lives. He was...a very sad man, when he died. And Shunsui...has a lot of the same characteristics."

"He's said that too." Juushirou agreed. "That he's like his father, in good and in bad."

"Well, more of the good is starting to come out." Tokutarou grinned. "Thanks to you and your friends at the Academy."

"I think it's more down to Shunsui himself, to be honest." Juushirou shook his head, and Tokutarou pursed his lips.

"Shunsui's always ended up alone." He said slowly. "And because of it, he kept himself alone. His father avoided him - and then was murdered in front of him. He was taken from his mother, and as I understand it, the one friend he had growing up with our Uncle was taken from him too on account of her inferior social status. He and I never met till he was fourteen, and by that time forging a fraternal bond is a uphill challenge. Uncle was never kind to him, and treated him as a tool and as a nuisance, so Shunsui made himself more of one. But inside, I'm sure, it preyed on him."

He sighed.

"The true crime of it is that Shunsui is perceptive." He admitted. "And always has been, from what I understand. He knew when his father died that his Uncle had murdered him. He understood Father's dying pain and absorbed it, even so young. He knew his Uncle hated him and only wanted to use him to kill me, and he knew that the young girl...Saku, was it...? was sent away because of the difference in their social status. Father became jaded because he was given the Clan and the duty of a Gotei Shinigami. But Shunsui...Shunsui was already somewhat jaded by the time he reached sixteen. Because everyone had always either wanted something from him...or abandoned him."

Juushirou frowned.

"I know." He admitted. "He's told me a little...that he felt like that, at times, growing up. He said that he liked me in the first instance because I didn't look at him or at anyone as Clan - I just went out to make friends and that was that. I didn't have an agenda, I think that's how he put it. And I don't. Even now. Shunsui's my friend - probably my closest friend, when all is said and done. But if he wasn't Clan, I wouldn't care. And that he is...isn't important to me, either. Those things really aren't important to me."

Tokutarou nodded.

"More than anything he's needed that." He said with a sigh, as the carriage pulled up outside a tall, flat-faced line of buildings. From the window, Juushirou could see the distinctive flag of the Kyouraku flying above the entrance, and he knew they had arrived at what Tokutarou had implied were modest dwellings - though to Juushirou they looked anything but. "He's needed real friends, and he hasn't had them. I was fine. I grew up with Sora's family and they accepted me wholeheartedly - even now I consider them particularly dear kinsfolk. Shunsui grew up alone...and it affected him. Even the friendship he began to develop with Sora – till the last year and a half, even that was a bond held at arm's length."

He shrugged his shoulders.

"I don't know what Shunsui may have told you about his exploits before I sent him to the Academy." He said softly. "And they're not things which bring any pride to my family, so I will not discuss them in greater detail. But those things...were the same path my Father fell onto, and the things from which he couldn't escape. Shunsui was unhappy - desperately unhappy - and I and nobody in District Eight could reach him. Not even his mother. But you - and your Academy friends, and perhaps Genryuusai-sensei himself - you have. You in particular. Thanks to you, he's learnt to talk about things, instead of bottling them up. You might not realise it," As Juushirou opened his lips to protest. "But you taught my brother to trust people. And because of that, he's grown happier. With that happiness, he's begun to blossom in other areas, too. He's proving to be astute and shrewd when faced with political subjects, and I can have faith in him as my heir now, which I could not do before. Most of all, I know he's accepted his destiny - and will work to wear the Kyouraku haori. All of those things are down to you and your companions. You've brought the best out in my brother...whether you believe it or not."

Juushirou reddened, shaking his head.

"I don't think I can take credit for it. I just made friends with him." He admitted honestly. "But that he's better than he was - we've all seen it, too. And I think...it'll keep coming. I think he's committed, now. To being a Shinigami."

"I sure hope so." Tokutarou laughed, leaping down from the carriage and standing back as Juushirou made his careful descent. "Well, we're here. I meant what I said, Juushirou. You can consider my family your family when it comes to Clan matters and the Council. We'll back you up, especially against the hostility from certain of our neighbours - so you needn't ever feel that you're alone in these things. The Kyouraku are your allies. Shunsui and I both. Understand?"

Juushirou stared at him for a moment. Then he smiled, nodding his head.

"Thank you." He said sincerely. "I appreciate that."

"Then let's go in." Tokutarou suggested. "And I'll show you what a Council member's temporary lodgings look like from the inside!"

---

Author's Note:

Some spookiness for all to consider.

I have had the scene with Juu and the Council written since March.

The manga chapters about Juu's zanpakutou did not come out until May/June.

Everything I wrote about Sougyo's power in this chapter was written and completed before the manga chapter came out.

Now is that spooky or what...?