Chapter Twenty: Lost Lamb
"Ryuu-sama and Edogawa-hime were escorted safely to their destination in District One as instructed, Seiren-sama."
Bowing low before his master, the weary retainer gave his report, thick dark hair falling over his shoulder in a long tail as he waited for his companion's response. It was the first day that mourning colours had been rescinded – a day which had dawned with Ryuu and Mitsuki's departure from the District and although Seiren had seen many cream and green clad figures milling about the estate, the mood was still strained and heavy in every quarter.
Guren had called a priority meeting of his inner court's most trusted members that evening, and Seiren had been on the verge of going to join the gathering when his senior retainer had entered, bearing his news. Despite the troubles that still weighed heavily on his mind, Seiren let out a sigh of relief, reaching out to touch his servant on the shoulder.
"Thank you, Shibata, for riding so quickly and reporting so soon after your arrival back here." He said softly, as the man raised his head to meet his commander's clouded gaze. "I can rest a little easier knowing that Ryuu is safe in Genryuusai-sama's jurisdiction. Only a fool and a simpleton would try and attack my son in that environment – and so I can cease to worry that his life is in imminent danger."
"Yes, sir." Shibata got to his feet, fumbling at his sash and producing a slim, greenwood box, simple in its design yet clearly distinguishable as a vessel for conveying an important message. "Also, as I arrived back here, I checked to find out whether there had been word yet from Kinnya-sama's manor regarding your letter. It seems there has been a reply – I thought you would want to see it before going to your meeting with Guren-sama this evening."
"Oh, indeed I would." Seiren's eyes took on a look of surprise and he held out his hand, taking the box and turning it over in his hands for a moment as he examined the container.
"This is unusual." He murmured. "Kinnya-sama doesn't usually send missives in this form – but this is undeniably the crest that belongs to his line of the Clan. Can you remember a time since Father's death when he sent a message with such ceremony and formality?"
"No, sir." Shibata admitted. "To be honest, I do not. The messenger was also confused by it. That's why he asked me to convey it to you directly, just in case there was some serious issue that needed to be dealt with urgently."
"Well, we'll soon see." Seiren broke the seal, opening the box and taking out the scroll that was neatly concealed inside. Carefully he unravelled it, glancing down the columns of kanji. It had been written by a manservant, for the characters were not Kinnya's own – yet at the bottom of the sheet the reclusive shinigami had written his own name, adding his crest for authenticity.
"From Kuchiki Kinnya, Incumbent of the Coastal Provinces to his nephew Lord Seiren, honoured advisor to the Head of Clan, cordial greetings.
Regarding the recent communication relating to your son Ryuu-dono and his claim to the Kuchiki inheritance; please be advised that we have no objections to your proposal. We are ready and willing to support Ryuu-dono in his claim if the young Lord himself wills it so.
Written this day by Mihara Keiichi, aide to Lord Kinnya and with his master's assent and seal below given."
He read the words softly, digesting them for a moment, then a faint smile touched his lips as he re-rolled the message, slipping it back into the box and replacing the lid.
"Then that is the last." He whispered, hope flickering in his heart as he did so. "Every major provincial landholder and significant member of the Kuchiki has replied to say they will either support or make no contest to the naming of Ryuu as Guren-sama's successor. This is good news indeed."
"With respect, sir, Kinnya-sama has not been to the centre of this Clan for some time." Shibata observed softly. "Surely even without his agreement, such a thing could progress?"
"Yes." Seiren rubbed his chin pensively. "It could, and you're right. Doubtless my Uncle would not bother about such things either way, since it's been many years since he was actively involved in the Kuchiki Clan. But even so, these things must be done by the book. Even if his view is that of a self-appointed hermit and exile, it can't be forgotten that he is Guren-sama's Uncle and mine as well. Once he held a position of high esteem here – and he still controls the coastal lands against the border of District Five. It is proper to ask for his support just as it is to ask the support of any landholder who bothers to give voice at the Kuchiki court."
"I see." Shibata bowed his head. "I'm sorry. I meant no disrespect."
"I know." Seiren tapped the box pensively. "And this was more than I expected from him, to be truthful. For him to simply say he wouldn't argue it is one thing – but an official writing like this bearing his seal almost implies a willingness to act if Ryuu needs his support. This is more than I could have hoped for from that difficult and incomprehensible man – I was always under the impression as a boy that he disliked me, but perhaps I was wrong to judge him so."
He got to his feet.
"I must be going now, to Guren-nii's meeting. I believe he intends to address the issue of succession today for the first time – and I don't want to risk losing my chance to impress on him or anyone else the importance of my son's claim."
"Seiren-sama! Seiren-sama!" As he made to leave the room, a young page boy of about fourteen burst into the study, tumbling over his own feet and almost sprawling headlong across the tatami covered floor. Shibata let out an exclamation, reaching down to grab the boy by the collar of his hakamashita and hauling him forcibly into an upright position.
"Where are your manners, boy!" He demanded, giving the youth a rough shake. "You know that you do not enter the chamber of a noble Lord in such a way!"
"I'm sorry, Shibata-dono." The boy coloured, wriggling against the older man's hold as he met Seiren's gaze with a penitent one of his own. "Seiren-sama, I meant…I meant no disrespect. Just an urgent message came. I was told…it must be conveyed directly to you, and I mustn't stop for anyone!"
"Another message?" Despite himself Seiren was confused, and he nodded, gesturing for Shibata to release his hold. Shibata did so, and the boy stumbled and almost overbalanced, grabbing hold of Seiren's desk for support. With his free hand he reached into the sash of his robes, pulling out a folded sheet of yellow-white parchment which he thrust eagerly in the nobleman's direction.
At the sight of it, Seiren felt his heart clench and he grabbed it, sending the youngster a troubled look.
"Boy, who gave you this?" He asked softly. "What manner of messenger commanded you to come to me?"
"I didn't see his face." The boy admitted, shaking his head. "I think he came from the town. He said that it was an urgent message for Lord Seiren, and that nobody else must read it. He said it had great importance for Ryuu-sama and I thought…I thought he must be one of Shibata-dono's men, coming to report. So I took it, sir. And I brought it, just like he told me."
"A man who came from the town?"
"I don't know, sir. He had a heavy black cape, and it's dark outside." The youngster shrugged his shoulders, clearly oblivious to the potential danger of what he had done. "He just gave it to me, and told me to run and give it to you. So I did sir. And now you've got it."
"Shall I take him and whip him for his idiocy, Seiren-sama?" Shibata asked quietly, and the boy flinched, staring at the commander in wary dismay.
"But I did what I ought to do, Shibata-dono!" He protested, his eyes wide with alarm. "I didn't do anything wrong. I brought the message and now Seiren-sama has it, so I didn't do anything bad!"
"Fine. I understand." At length Seiren spoke, somehow managing to keep his tones calm and even as he met the youth's gaze. "No, Shibata. The boy can be spared this time. He's carried out his errand and I don't have time to deal with such low ranking members of staff."
He flicked his fingers in the direction of the door, and the boy scrambled into a hasty bow, fleeing the room before either man could change his mind.
"Something is wrong, my Lord?" Shibata asked softly, and Seiren glanced at the letter, his fingers trembling slightly as he moved to break the seal. As he did so, he realised that the wax that had fastened the note together did not bear any particular insignia – and his misgivings grew.
So it was another communication from his unknown contact.
Quickly he unfolded it, his gaze racing over the contents in fear and apprehension of what it might contain.
I know your secrets. I will extinguish every enemy in this Clan, so nobody can stand in my way. You should watch out for me, for I am watching you…and I won't stay silent forever.
Almost before he knew what he was doing he had scrunched the paper into a tight ball, his fist clenched so tightly that his knuckles went white and his nails dug deeply into the palm of his hand.
"Seiren-sama?" Shibata was alarmed now, and Seiren struggled to find his composure, meeting his companion's concerned gaze with a stricken one of his own. Slowly he drew breath into his lungs, trying to calm down.
He opened his hand reluctantly, glancing at the crumpled parchment a second time as he tried to work out who had written the missive and from where it had come. Very quickly he recognised once again the superior style of good quality parchment, and as he scrutinised the letters, he was sure he could smell the distinctive odour of the expensive ink that Guren himself favoured for writing important documents.
Whoever had sent him the first letter had definitely sent him the second.
He folded the sheet with difficulty, sliding it into the folds of his Clan obi.
"I must go to my brother's side. This meeting cannot be delayed by idle nonsense." He said flatly, ignoring his companion's startled glance as he swept out of the room and into the hallway beyond. Shibata's footfalls on the landing told Seiren that his manservant was following him, clearly concerned for his master's safety, and something in this immediate loyalty soothed Seiren's panicked emotions just a little bit.
But even so, to receive another one. What secrets? Things I know? Things I don't know? And why? Is this really Shirogane's work? Could he be so brazen?
His eyes narrowed thoughtfully as he paced purposefully through the halls towards the court chamber.
He was brazen yesterday, before Guren, Futsuki and I all, almost hinting that he would draw his sword against me if the need arose. That reckless look I never saw in his eyes before Ribari's death – did that drug truly turn his mind to such a point that he now believes it's his God given duty to stand against me in every way?
As he reached the centre of Kuchiki administrative power, he was startled and alarmed to see the subject of his thoughts standing outside the door, leaning up against the wall with a dissatisfied expression on his features. He was robed in his shinigami attire, the band and badge of Vice Captain strapped provocatively to his left arm, and for a brief moment Seiren wanted to strike forward and rip it off, throw it in the boy's face and demand to know his motives.
But he could not do that. If Shirogane was or if he wasn't the one tormenting him, there were secrets that he could not let come to light.
For the sake of this Clan, Father buried those secrets. Probably more secrets than I even know. For the sake of this Clan, therefore…I can't speak about them either. Father had his reasons. If I can keep silent, so others must as well.
Out loud he said,
"What are you doing here? You're a shinigami, not a member of the Kuchiki inner court."
"And as you see, I'm outside, not inside the chamber." Shirogane raised his gaze to meet Seiren's, and Seiren was sure there was a faint flicker of defiance in those grey eyes. "Guren-sama asked me to come here. He wishes to speak to me. Therefore I am awaiting his pleasure."
His eyes narrowed.
"Of course, if you feel that your authority supersedes that of the Clan leader, I will return at once to my quarters." He said softly. "But you can explain to Guren-sama yourself why I have not obeyed his summons."
"Shirogane-sama, you should not address lord Seiren in such a way!" Shibata had caught his master up now, and he sent the young shinigami a reproachful look. "He is your Uncle and your superior in this Clan – you should bow your head and greet him properly, no matter what your standing."
"And you are a Clan retainer, in whose opinions I have no interest." Shirogane said flatly. "I will continue to wait here until my Captain orders me to do otherwise. But I would hate to delay you, Seiren-dono. Please, feel free to enter. It is not my intention to delay the legitimate members of the court going about their legitimate business."
Was it his imagination, or had there been a faint sneer to Shirogane's words then?
Seiren frowned, shaking his head as if to clear it. He cast Shibata a glance, then,
"I'll leave you here." He said quietly. "Make sure that nothing untoward befalls my nephew, since it seems he is once more in a peculiar state of mind. Since Guren-niisama entrusted his wellbeing to me following Ribari-sama's murder, I will delegate that duty to you in my absence."
"I don't need your nurse-maiding, Uncle. I am quite well, now."
"And as you wait for your Captain's orders, I wait for my brother's." Seiren said coldly. "Until he relieves me of this charge, you are under my jurisdiction as well as his. You should do well to note that and to keep in line – since I will report to him on everything that you do."
With that he pushed back the door, stepping into the chamber and striding across the room towards his usual seat. His heart was pounding unusually quickly in his chest, he realised, and the folded, anonymous letter seemed to burn a poisonous hole through his clan clothing as he remembered the look in Shirogane's eyes.
As though he knows something he shouldn't. Suspects something he shouldn't. The paper, the ink, the attitude…all fits. As though he discovered something and decided to act on it.
He took his seat, bowing automatically in Guren's direction as he contemplated this.
Could he have conspired in Ribari-sama's death? Could he have done that – betrayed my brother and his cousin so completely for his own ends? Or is this simply since that point? That now Ribari-sama is no longer here, he feels he has a right to a voice in this Clan beyond what he had before?
"Seiren, you seem troubled?" Guren's voice broke through his musings and he glanced up, realising that the eyes of his companions were all on him. He sighed, shaking his head apologetically.
"I'm sorry, Oniisama." He said gravely. "I have spent much of today worried about my son, and only just has my retainer returned with news of their safe arrival in District One."
"Ryuu-dono is in the custody of Genryuusai-sama now." Futsuki observed. "You should rest easy at that thought, Seiren. Nobody will touch him there."
"That is what I also believe." Seiren agreed. "I am relieved, but it has preyed on my mind all day and I suppose only now is taking its toll."
"Then perhaps the subject of this meeting will help lift your spirits somewhat." Guren said gravely, and for the first time Seiren registered his brother's attire and the sombre, almost ceremonial expression on the other's face. Guren was robed not in the dark colours of mourning that he had adopted since his son's death, but in his proper robes of office, the gentle cream silk and expensive emerald damask worn by a Kuchiki Clan leader at times of political significance. Cast about his throat was the expensive white silk scarf that had once been worn by their father, and his ebony hair was tamed back firmly into the distinctive white Kuchiki kenseiken that was the traditional sign of rank for the most elevated member of the Clan. About his shoulders was the cream ceremonial haori of the Sixth shinigami division and Council of Elders, and his elegant pale hands were half concealed beneath the sheer fabric of woven white tekkou gloves.
In that moment, Seiren understood. Despite the pain that still resonated in Guren's eyes, and the lines of tiredness and grief that crossed his brow, his brother intended to put the Clan first.
They would discuss the succession of the Kuchiki that night.
"Oniisama." He murmured, and Guren nodded.
"You are right." He said simply. "We must not dally any longer with the settlement of our future. I am a father and I remain in mourning – but I cannot do so as a Clan leader and let my family fall to ruin. I have been to Father's shrine this morning, Seiren – and I have prayed there for strength and conviction in the things I must do. Ribari is gone. To say so hurts me more than if someone had cut off my arm or my leg in battle – but it is true and I must face it. I can no longer provide this family with a male heir…therefore the Clan must now look to other claimants."
"There is only one legitimate claimant remaining." One of the senior Kuchiki clansmen put in at this juncture. "With all respect, Guren-sama, Ryuu-dono is the only blood heir through the male line with a connection close enough to your own. As the son of your own twin brother, it seems quite straight-forward that the succession now falls on his shoulders."
"I am in concurrence with that idea, as you well know." Seiren nodded. "Ryuu has always been raised to think of his Clan first and his needs second. He understands duty and responsibility and now bears a zanpakutou with which to defend those who serve under him. True, he is still young and lacking in experience, but even despite that fact…"
"Ryuu's claim is without doubt a strong one." Guren said evenly, and although his words were quiet, Seiren recognised the note of firmness in his brother's tones that indicated he would not be prevented from saying his part. "And I am considering that fact very carefully. Yet we remain in an uncertain political position, with my son's killer not found and no clues to it remaining. Only yesterday a disturbing incident occurred in our own grounds, when five good serving men were cut down by an unknown assailant. This is still a Clan under fire – and Ryuu is not only no longer here, but also not yet fully fledged in his role as a shinigami."
"Are you saying you don't consider him a claimant, Guren-sama?" Futsuki looked startled, and Guren shook his head.
"On the contrary. I must consider him first and foremost because he is the only claimant with the acceptable bloodline to meet the expectations of the whole Clan." He said grimly. "But I must also think of other things. Seiren, for example. I must think of you as well."
"Of me?" Seiren was taken aback. "Oniisama, I have every faith in Ryuu and intend to back him entirely. I have no concerns for his being able to do the job – I don't understand why you would think otherwise."
"I have lost my son, Seiren." Guren's eyes were heavy and sad. "And I do not wish you to feel what I feel now. Naming Ryuu before his training is complete may bring his life into danger. Ribari died because he was not yet well enough trained to defend himself or the men with which he was deployed. Ryuu is in the same situation. He is growing in strength – but what good is it for me to name him heir and put him in unknown danger when he is not yet even at Gotei standard?"
"You believe the assassin will strike again?" One of the other members of the court circle whispered, and Guren rubbed his temples.
"When my son died, I thought not. That Ribari and Ribari alone had been their target." He murmured. "But the incident yesterday has made me think on this again. I want to find out who killed my son and bring them to justice, if I can. Not because it can bring Ribari back, but because it can protect the future of this family. I do not want Ryuu – or any other member of this Clan – hurt because of someone's unknown intentions. Surely in this you can all agree with me – that we do not want more blood spilt."
"Guren-sama is right." Futsuki sighed. "With what happened yesterday in the stables, everything is uncertain again. Naming Ryuu might make him a target for these people, if they are trying to wipe out the ruling house. They must know that we have rules about inheritance and how strict those rules are."
"Perhaps its time those rules were changed." This time it was Mitsuki's father who spoke up, and Seiren shot him a horrified look.
"Teitou-dono?"
"I have long thought them to be out of date and potentially damaging to the future of our Clan." Teitou smiled, offering a sheepish shrug. "While we had a strong hope in Ribari-sama, surely we had nothing to concern us and we didn't look beyond. But – with all due respect, Guren-sama, we are not prepared as a Clan for this situation to arise. On the contrary, we are thrown into turmoil and chaos by it, to the point where the entire heart of the Clan has been disrupted. The loss of Ribari-sama is a tragedy without equal, admitted. Especially for Guren-sama himself. But even so…"
"What would you suggest then, Teitou-dono?" Guren asked quietly.
"That it's time we reconsidered the agnatic tradition and started looking instead to widening the pool of acceptance for future generations of this family."
"You mean…let a hime inherit the Clan?" The older Kuchiki looked scandalised, and Teitou laughed, shaking his head.
"I think it would take some great force of nature indeed to bring that change about." He said wryly. "No. I wouldn't suggest that – I don't suppose that the wider elements of this Clan would accept a female Clan leader, despite how successful our neighbours in Five have been since Kyouki-sama took control. But as for those sons born legitimately through a female line – what of them?"
"You mean, I suppose, Shirogane." Guren murmured, and Seiren's eyes widened in horror.
"Not a chance." He said emphatically, banging his hands down on the table to illustrate his point. "If the idea is to raise Shirogane as a potential candidate for this Clan, I will stand out against it and so will all of my people. We are talking about a boy whose mother may well have been my sister, but his father's bloodline was way beneath that required of a Clan heir and successor! No Kuchiki who does not carry the family's name has the right to inherit – that has always been our custom! And besides…"
"Seiren, silence." Guren held up his hands, and despite himself, Seiren subsided, anger and fear still blazing in his eyes. "Teitou was simply making a suggestion. There is no formal movement to change the Kuchiki's rules and regulations at this time."
"But Shirogane-dono would make an adequate candidate for leadership." One of the other court members said thoughtfully. "Futsuki-dono, what say you? You know more of the boy than I, but he seems a gifted and intelligent youth from the times I've encountered him."
"I believe he would make a very good candidate for the Clan." Futsuki admitted. "As you say, he and my daughter Meroka played together often before she married and moved to District Four, and so I saw much of him when he was small. He has a sword he can use to a high level and has proved his leadership skills in Sixth Division over the last few years."
"Have we forgotten whose leadership it was under which Ribari-sama lost his life?" Seiren demanded.
"Seiren!" Guren exclaimed, casting his brother a dark glare. "Shirogane is not at fault in the death of my son. That has been established and the matter has been closed. If you raise it again, I will be forced to take action – do you understand?"
"Oniisama…" Seiren was taken aback, and Guren nodded.
"Whether or not Shirogane is a suitable claimant for the Kuchiki in character and deed is one thing." He said, suddenly seeming tired. "But it cannot be argued that Ryuu – despite his lack of experience – has the stronger bloodline. I must therefore consider Ryuu to be the favoured candidate for the succession. However, I will not name him thus – or anyone else – until this matter is resolved and until he is safely graduated from the Academy in District One. You gathered members alone can know my mind in this matter. I will only offer the succession of the Clan to Ryuu himself if and when I feel the time is right to do so. This is my final word on this matter. No further discussion will be entertained."
Seiren stared at his brother for a moment, then he sighed, the tension coursing out of his body as he understood what the other man had said.
Ryuu will be his heir. He has accepted that – Ryuu will inherit. Once this is over, Ryuu will be named. Then everything will be well – because the family will acknowledge him, I'm sure. But Shirogane still remains a thorn in the side. That anyone would even think to raise his name here…perhaps that is the boy's aim all along. That he thinks he has a right to this Clan too. That's why he's been playing sweet with Teitou's daughter Mitsuki, in order to get her father to put forth such a monstrous and unconventional suggestion. Shirogane has no claim to this Clan and no position in it beyond that given him by Guren. That is the truth and thankfully, Guren seems to have seen it. For anyone other than my son to be named as heir…would be a travesty of justice that would have even Father turning in his grave.
"Then we must open discussion on the other matter." Futsuki said gravely. "And that is the incident in the stable-yard in which five men died. Edogawa-hime is no longer here – though Guren-sama, Seiren-dono and I have heard her testimony clearly already and she has helped as much as she was able. Shirogane, however, has been summoned here – he waits outside."
"Shirogane was also present during this incident?" The elderly Kuchiki asked, and Futsuki shook his head.
"He came onto the scene after Edogawa-hime did." He responded. "But with Guren-sama's permission, I wish to involve Sixth Squad in investigating this business on a deeper level."
"Bring Shirogane in." Guren gestured towards the servant that stood attentive at the door and the man bowed, hurrying to slide back the ornately carved divide. A moment later Shirogane himself entered, bowing properly before his Clan leader and avoiding Seiren's gaze with a haughtiness that only put his Uncle's nerves even more on edge.
"You sent for me, Guren-sama?" He asked quietly, and Guren nodded.
"Futsuki-dono has requested my permission to deploy agents of Sixth Squad in investigating the incident yesterday and any connection it might have to my son's death." He said quietly. "I am far too busy with other things to be able to do this myself, and so Futsuki-dono will assume overall command of the investigation. However, I would like you and some officers of your own choosing to assist him. Your skills as shinigami may come in handy, as well as your training in searching difficult environments and patrolling long hours. Do you understand?"
"Yes, sir." Shirogane's expression darkened and he nodded his head. "I want to find out the truth just as much as anyone else. The scene that I walked into yesterday…nobody should ever have to be in the position those men were, cut down for no reason at all."
"Then you accept my instruction?"
"Yes, sir." Shirogane inclined his head. "I will assemble some officers and begin immediately. I will report directly to Futsuki-dono on any findings so that he can report back to you."
"Good." Guren seemed relieved, and Seiren felt a flicker of envy at how easily his brother seemed to trust his Vice Captain. "Then I will entrust that to you. Thank you, Shirogane. You may go."
Shirogane bowed a third time, and then withdrew, shutting the door behind him.
"Are you sure about that?" Seiren asked softly. "That Shirogane is well enough to operate in such a high pressure situation?"
"Shirogane has made a full recovery, so Edogawa-hime and Retsu-dono have told me." Guren said simply. "And I believe them to be correct. He seems well enough, and I do not want him to dwell on the night my son was killed. More, though, the assassins are not interested in taking his life. They had their chance and disdained it, therefore I feel safe sending him on such an errand."
Seiren's heart skipped a beat as in that moment he realised the true reason why Guren had not named Shirogane as a potential heir.
He's protecting Shirogane too. Just like he's protecting Ryuu. He hasn't ruled out Teitou's suggestion at all – he's just glossing over it because he doesn't want to make Shirogane a target. I need to keep an eye on this – and make sure it has no chance to progress beyond theorising. Perhaps I've underestimated Shirogane's influence on my brother. It seems he has more of a motive to write those letters than I first thought…and I need to watch him all the more now he's supposedly healed than I did before!
"That was one of the most difficult things I've ever had to do since I came here."
Hirata sank down into an empty seat in the Senior study with a sigh, slipping his glasses off his nose and setting them to one side as he rubbed the bridge of his nose wearily. "Honestly, worse than fighting Seimaru, worse than taking on any of the things I did in District Seven. Teaching two completely unknown Third years how to calculate the speed of a flash-step in accordance with someone's reiatsu is definitely the most challenging thing that's ever come my way."
"That was very melodramatic." Ryuu lowered the Kidou book he had been reading, shooting his young classmate a curious look. "Was it that bad, then, tutoring people? Were they completely dull? I have to admit, I'm not sure how much patience I would have for such a thing...in my opinion, you either understand it or you don't, and if you don't, you should read more books."
He shut the book with a snap as if to emphasise his point, and Hirata grinned despite himself, shaking his head.
"I don't think they're stupid." He said cautiously. "But they were very confused. And I'm not...good at asserting myself if I'm on my own. I wanted to help them, but I don't know how effective I was. It's a bit pitiful really, Kuchiki-kun - I think I was a little scared of them, despite what I said to Sensei."
"It's the first time you've been asked to do something like that, though." Mitsuki set her own book aside, offering Hirata a reassuring smile. "And they're probably not a lot younger than you, are they?"
"One seventeen, one eighteen - so no." Hirata agreed heavily. "I think that was part of the trouble. They were polite and attentive enough, but I didn't feel very much their Senpai."
"This from the boy who faced his cousin in a pitched battle of life and death." Ryuu intoned wryly, and Hirata nodded.
"I know. But I wasn't alone then." He said seriously. "I had Midori-sama with me, and Kyouki-sama was there too. Even though they weren't at first - they were by the time things got really serious. If they hadn't been, I don't know if I would have succeeded."
He sighed again, stretching his arms over his head.
"Truthfully, though, I was thinking a lot more about that boy who was in Juushirou-kun's chamber earlier this evening. My mind couldn't have been further from Hohou."
"We've been talking about it a little too." Mitsuki admitted. "But we've only come back today, so we don't know anything about any of this. It's obvious that Juushirou being Anideshi has created a bit of a stir - that was clear from the meeting and the way Yamamoto-kun was behaving. But other than that...?"
"Mm." Hirata pursed his lips thoughtfully. "Well, it hasn't been plain sailing for him or for anyone, really. But it's not that. Not especially. It's more the boy himself. Something I saw in his eyes when Juushirou-kun and I met him in the hall. It was how he looked at Juushirou-kun. As though he was...I don't know..."
"Scared?" Ryuu asked. "We are Seniors. I seem to remember you were quite afraid of Seniors when we were First years."
"I wasn't all that keen on them in Second year, either." Hirata acknowledged sheepishly. "Yes, I know. But it wasn't just that. It was Juushirou-kun in particular, and it wasn't so much fear as...maybe...that he was sorry? That something was hurting him, and he wanted to get away from us before it hurt anyone else?"
"That sounds odd." Mitsuki reflected. "That he was physically hurting? Like sick? Or...emotionally? I didn't get a good enough read of his mood when he charged past us on the stairs - and I'll be honest, I was too tired to really try. But I didn't think he was in pain."
"Emotionally...perhaps." Hirata mused. "It's hard to explain. I only saw it, I think, because I've felt it. Like I was in a place I hated, but there was nowhere I could go and hide. That I was surrounded by things that terrified me and that I didn't know what to do about it. I wouldn't have ever reached out to anyone on my own. If Juushirou-kun hadn't..."
"But Ukitake tried with this kid, and the kid ran from it?" Ryuu asked. Hirata nodded, slipping his glasses back onto his nose and blinking experimentally to bring the world back into focus.
"Yes. Maybe you're right. Perhaps it is the age gap."
"Kyouraku-kun hasn't come back yet." Mitsuki sighed. "He went down to look for the boy almost as soon as you and Juushirou left, but he hasn't been back here. Nobody has, really. I saw Naoko-chan poke her head briefly around the door to see if Sora was back yet, and she wasn't - and we've otherwise just been studying quietly. Nobody else has been around - I almost feel we ought to go and look ourselves, despite what Kyouraku-kun said."
"We wouldn't achieve much if we did. We'd just find ourselves looking in the same places he has already been." Ryuu pointed out.
"I know." Mitsuki acknowledged. "But it was Juushirou's sword, Ryuu. And he looked so upset..."
She faltered, as the door slid back to reveal the subject of their conversation, and at the thunder that lurked in the boy's hazel eyes, Hirata's eyes widened.
"Juushirou-kun?" He murmured, and Juushirou shut the door with a click, moving across the chamber to the window and gazing out at the darkened skyline beyond.
"Juushirou, what's wrong?" Mitsuki was on her feet, but Ryuu reached out to grab her arm, pulling her back down.
"What happened?" He asked quietly.
"Shunsui's not back yet?" Juushirou did not turn to face his companions, instead resting his hands on the sill as he fixed his gaze on some unidentifiable object in the night world beyond.
"Not yet." Hirata agreed. "I expected him to be here before me, but he hasn't come yet. It's just us."
"I see." Juushirou was silent for a moment, then he sighed. "I see."
"Juushirou?" Mitsuki's eyes were troubled. "Something did happen, didn't it? Did you have a run in with that boy again? Or...something...in your class...?"
"Yamamoto-kun." Hirata's eyes narrowed, and at this Juushirou turned, meeting his friend's gaze. Once more Hirata was aware of the suppressed anger in the depths of the boy's gaze, and a deep sense of foreboding filled his heart.
"What did he do?" He whispered.
"To make Ukitake look like that, it must've topped whatever he did this afternoon in the library." Ryuu decided archly. "There is no point in trying to conceal it, Ukitake. It's clear to all of us that you're on the verge of losing your temper. I suggest that while it's just us in here, you do so - unless you want to risk causing an inadvertent storm in the world outside."
"The weather looks bleak enough without that. It's been raining hard for at least an hour." Mitsuki murmured. "But Ryuu is right, Juushirou. If something's on your mind, you can talk to us about it. We're on your side - even Anideshi has to let his feelings out sometimes."
Juushirou glanced at his hands for a moment, clenching and unclenching his fists. Then he sighed, dropping down into an empty chair.
"I don't want to shout and yell at any of you." He said heavily, running his fingers through his thick lank hair. "It's not your fault. And I couldn't yell and scream in front of those kids...but seriously...I wanted to. As it is...probably I said far too much. But I couldn't not say anything. I'm Anideshi, right?"
"Yamamoto did do something, then." Ryuu pursed his lips, and Juushirou nodded.
"One of the youngsters was rude. Iemura, I think his name was." He said wearily. "And Yamamoto-kun decided to box his ears for his attitude."
"Box his..." Hirata's eyes widened. "But...is he allowed to even do that?"
"I'm not sure." Juushirou admitted. "It happened so suddenly, I didn't really know what he was going to do until he did it. I prevented it from going any further, but...I put Yamamoto-kun's back up and he put mine up, too. What Iemura said...wasn't really that good, and I don't pretend I approved of it. But...even so..."
"What did the kid say?" Ryuu enquired, and Juushirou groaned.
"He said he wasn't going to be taught by a District student, even if I was Anideshi." He admitted, and Mitsuki let out a gasp.
"To your face?" She demanded, indignation surging in her own eyes. Juushirou nodded.
"So Yamamoto-kun defended you?" Hirata was confused.
"No...no, he didn't." Juushirou shook his head. "It was Iemura's tone after that he went for. Something in it he didn't like, and decided to go all out to prove to him the difference in their birth ranks or some such nonsensical Clan thing."
"Clans are full of such nonsense." Ryuu said darkly. "You should pay it no mind, Ukitake. It sounds to me as though the kid probably deserved to be punished."
"But not by Yamamoto-kun and not like that." Juushirou was frustrated. "I was angry too - it hurt me too, when he said it. It was in front of the whole group, and in front of Yamamoto-kun of all people. But slapping him about never achieved anything. He's just a kid, when all is said and done. One who was taught badly, or at least, according to outmoded traditions. I don't know what Clan he belongs to, and I don't really care. It doesn't interest me. But...you can't go around hitting kids whose attitude you don't like."
"Juushirou-kun is right." Mitsuki murmured. "No matter how badly Iemura-kun behaved, hitting him wasn't the answer. That kind of punishment should only be dispatched by a member of staff, and only if they deem it appropriate. It's nothing more than bullying, if we start doing it."
"But you stopped him from doing anything worse?" Hirata asked. Juushirou nodded.
"He was in high dudgeon, though." He said grimly. "And he challenged me to a spar. To prove once and for all what I can do."
"A spar? When?" Ryuu's eyes became big, and Juushirou looked sheepish.
"Tomorrow. Before breakfast. And before you ask, I accepted his challenge." He said simply. "I know," As Mitsuki arched an eyebrow. "It was done in the heat of the moment. I was angry, my pride was dented and I reacted quickly without giving it much consideration. But I don't think that it was the wrong decision. I'll fight him, and then that will be that."
"I don't know..." Hirata looked troubled. "Juushirou-kun, you didn't see...the spar between him and Houjou-kun. It was...Yamamoto-kun is...strong."
"From what Sensei said in our meeting, he ranked highly in Ouyoudou last year, too." Ryuu added. "You've never beaten Houjou in a spar of any kind, and you want to take on his cousin? Houjou wouldn't ever try and hurt you - but I get the impression that Yamamoto wouldn't mind if he did."
"Right now, I don't really mind who he thinks he is or what his rank is." Juushirou's eyes flashed with annoyance for a brief moment, and Hirata swallowed hard as he realised his friend's rage was still simmering just below the surface. "I don't intend to run away from him. If he wants to spar me, I will spar him. If I win, or if I don't win, that's not the point. The point is that I'm not afraid of him. And I'm not going to cow to him or his attitude."
"If he beats you, he'll probably crow it over you, though." A fresh voice came from the doorway at that moment and Hirata started, turning to see Shunsui leaning against the door-frame watching them. "Evening all. It seems Juu needs to work off some stress on someone, and so I thought I'd come intrude and volunteer to be it."
"You heard all that, huh?" Juushirou offered him a faintly guilty look, and Shunsui nodded.
"I also met Yamamoto coming up the stairs, muttering and cursing you out under his breath." He agreed. "So I got the gist of what had happened. I think you're an idiot, Juu, to rise to him. But I also know you when you're riled. Just don't let him carve chunks out of you, all right? If he's angry enough, he's someone who probably could."
"I don't intend on that." Juushirou said evenly. "Like I said, I'm just not going to run away from him. I'm not scared of him or his attitude. If he wants to pull Clan on me, I'll counter it with District determination. You shouldn't try and talk me out of it, because I won't go back on my word."
"Wasn't even going to try." Shunsui held up his hands. "Besides, we have a more pressing problem right at the moment."
"Tsukabishi-kun?" Hirata asked apprehensively, and Shunsui nodded, his eyes becoming grave.
"Yes." He said quietly. "That."
"You didn't find him?" Suddenly Juushirou seemed to realise his friend had returned to the study alone, and Shunsui shook his head.
"No sign. Not a trace." he said helplessly. "I checked everywhere I could think of, plus all the obvious places - nowhere to be found. And then I spoke to some of the other first years, and what they said bothered me even more."
"What did they say?" Mitsuki asked softly, and Shunsui entered the study proper, pushing the door shut behind him and leaning up against it.
"One of them - Oomaeda, that was his name - said that they've tried to cajole Tsukabishi into hanging out with them, but he seems to like to pull away." He said pensively. "Like he's frightened of something. Oomaeda's one of those kids whose full of his own opinions and I can imagine a scared little mite like the kid Kaoru described would run a mile from that, but despite it I think he and his coterie were worried. Apparently the last couple of nights Tsukabishi's been even more withdrawn. When he could get a word in edgeways, one of the other boys said that Tsukabishi had been crying in his sleep the night before, and that he'd been restless and upset about something last night, too. Then Oomaeda said he thought the boy was being hassled - by some unknown kids in the Fifth year."
"In the Fifth year." Hirata echoed slowly, and Shunsui nodded.
"Not Seniors, then?" Ryuu asked, and Shunsui looked surprised.
"You mean Yamamoto? Not his style." He said with a shake of his head. "That guy is an idiot and a bigot and full of his own arrogance and sense of self. But he's said what he thinks to Juu's face enough times. He's not the kind of person who'd send a kid like that to do his dirty work. This sword challenge is far more his kind of thing - he's unpleasant but I think he's up front about it."
"I think so too." Juushirou nodded, rubbing his temples. "But I seem to be generating enemies all over the school at this rate. Am I that bad as Anideshi that already people are mutinying against my leadership? Or is it just the District thing that's hanging like a weight around my neck yet again? Because I can't do anything about that, dammit - and I'm trying my best."
There was a note of frustration in his tones, and Shunsui sighed, shaking his head.
"Neither." He said quietly. "We've all seen you take charge at breakfast or dinner, and people listen to you. If there are a few who don't, they're a minority. And if they're bullying a scared first year kid and making him do things he doesn't want to do - we have to do something about that."
"Finding him would be a good place to start." Ryuu put in acidly, and Juushirou raised his head.
"He's really nowhere in the school grounds?" He asked.
"I can't find him." Shunsui agreed. "And his classmates haven't seen him for a while either."
"Maybe he ran away." Hirata suggested, his eyes troubled. "Maybe because they made him do something he hated, and to someone he didn't want to hurt, he was frightened and ran away. I would...I would have done the same, if I was him. I would've wanted to get away from everyone and everything - so maybe that's what he's done."
"Perhaps he's tried to go home." Mitsuki suggested, and Shunsui shook his head.
"From what the First years were saying, Tsukabishi doesn't have any family." He responded. "He doesn't get any mail or anything like that - and when one of them asked him about it, he got all tearful and upset and said his mother had died. After that he withdrew into a corner for a whole afternoon and so nobody mentioned it again. But it seems like he's a kid on his own. He doesn't have anywhere else he can go."
"Then where is he?" Juushirou's expression became one of concern. "Mitsuki, you said it was raining out - if he's really left the school grounds, then..."
"Perhaps we really ought to report this to Sensei." Ryuu suggested.
"No." Juushirou shook his head. "If we do that, we have to tell him what Tsukabishi did. And if he was being bullied, I want...to know by who and how. I want to deal with this, I said that before. This is my problem, and I intend to wrap it up."
"So you're going to look for him, is that it?" Shunsui cast him a resigned look. "Even though it's about time for dinner and its tipping down buckets out there?"
"I am." Juushirou nodded his head. "I can't do anything else. If he gets hurt, it's my responsibility. I knew he was missing, and as Anideshi...there's nothing else for me to do but go."
"Then I'm going with you." Hirata said firmly.
"Hirata?" Juushirou looked startled, and Hirata nodded.
"I know how this kid is feeling. I've been him." He said gravely. "I don't know if I can reach him, or if he can be reached that easily. But I need to go, anyway."
"All right." Juushirou nodded. "Then we'll grab our cloaks and head out right away."
"I'm coming too." Shunsui raised his hand. "My deshi was the one who raised the alarm, and since I've begun the hunt now, I feel I should see it through. Three pairs of eyes are better than two - so I'll tag along too."
"Perhaps we should all go." Mitsuki suggested, but Ryuu shook his head.
"Kuchiki roaming alone around the forests of District One at present is asking for trouble." He said bleakly. "No, Mitsuki. We will remain here and report what has happened to the others when they return. It will be our duty to help calm any fracaas at dinner - for the time being, that must be our responsibility."
"I suppose so." Mitsuki sighed. "All right. We'll do that. But...be careful, all right? All of you."
Her gaze rested on Juushirou, then,
"It's not good weather out there. If you can't find him, come back. We'll go to Sensei and get a proper search party sent out. All right?"
"All right." Juushirou agreed reluctantly. "But I hope it won't come to that."
"In which case, we shouldn't waste time." Shunsui said simply, pulling back the door. "Well? Let's cloak up and go track down our lost lamb."
The rain was falling in sheets and the sun had completely set by the time Hirata, Shunsui and Juushirou ventured out into the night, a chill wind whipping around District One in a reminder that it was not yet fully summer, in spite the fact they had had several bright days since term had begun. Despite himself, Juushirou stifled a shiver, pulling his heavy old cloak more tightly around his skinny body as he cast his gaze out across the school grounds. They would have to leave the safety of the school yard and venture out into the land beyond, he knew - but his mind was more on the safety of the missing boy than it was on anything else.
"Well?" Shunsui said softly. "It's not going to get any better, so we oughtn't linger here where it's sheltered and dry. If we're really going to find him, we need to get moving."
"I think we should split up." Juushirou cast another glance up the unforgiving sky as it continued to pour its deluge down onto the ground. Something prickled against his senses and he frowned, nodding his head more decisively.
"I'm pretty sure we're going to have a storm." He added. "We're dealing with a first year who can't do shunpo. Therefore he can't have got too far, even if we're talking about a couple of hours since he disappeared. If we split up and divide the surrounding area between us, most likely one of us will come across him, grab him and bring him back before it gets too late in the evening."
"On our own?" Hirata looked doubtful, but Shunsui nodded.
"I'm agreeable to that." He said frankly. "The less time you spend out in the rain the better, too. Even if storms are your friend, Juu - it won't do you any good any more than it will this young idiot."
"I'm fine." Juushirou flashed him a rueful smile. "Though I would like to spend as little time out here as possible. It's vile weather, even if I do like storms."
"Then we'll split up." Hirata said with a sigh. "And see what ground we can cover."
"I'll head towards the town then." Shunsui decided. "Just in case he's made it there to try and get some form of transport or shelter. I'll find him, if that's what he's done. I know that town pretty well, even though I don't sneak out there after curfew any more."
"Fine." Juushirou agreed. "Then that leaves the rest for you and I, Hirata. At the gate, you go left and I'll head right, up towards the mountains. I don't think he will have got even as far as the cave that Shunsui and I sheltered in in our first year - but those paths I'm familiar with, so I'll take that route."
"Which leaves me going down towards the river." Hirata nodded. "All right. That's fine with me."
"If one of you find him, send up a Kidou flare." Juushirou added. "Something that's visible, so we know."
"In that case, if all is well, fire Soukatsui." Shunsui suggested. "If you need help, fire Shakkahou. That way the other two will know if we're to head back to the school or if we're to come to the rescue. With shunpo we should be able to close in on a location quickly that way - so that seems like the best idea to me."
"Then it's settled." Juushirou agreed. "That's what we'll do. Come on - we can't waste any more time!"
With that he steeled his courage, darting out from the shelter of the school building into the drenching rain. Behind him he could sense his friends following as he hurried across the courtyard towards the rear gate that the three of them had used in the past to slip out of the grounds when they had been younger. It was that recollection that added urgency to Juushirou's feet, for he knew how unforgiving District One could be at night - and also the risk of them finding danger along the way.
The rain continued to fall, slicking Juushirou's lank white hair to his neck and running down the inside of his hakamashita to his body beneath. Despite his heavy cloak, it was impossible to prevent every drop of water from sneaking in and by the time he had reached the edge of the surrounding forestland, he almost wondered why he had bothered to bring the unwieldy garment with him. His feet were already drenched, the water splashing up to soak the bottoms of his hakama till they stuck to and flapped around his ankles in an awkward, unpleasant way, and a stream of water ran down the outside of Sougyo no Kotowari's black sheath, adding further discomfort to the Senior boy's progress.
Yet he knew he wasn't going to stop. Tsukabishi had fled the school because of something he didn't fully understand yet, but he knew that it involved him in some way, and therefore he knew that he would not leave the youngster scared and alone with a storm on the horizon.
Of course, if he sees me, he might yet run away further. If he's been bullied, it's because of me. It's because I'm Anideshi that this has happened to him, so I wouldn't blame him if he did.
Juushirou chewed down on his lip, remembering the last time the two had encountered one another and the frightened rabbit expression that he had seen in the young boy's eyes. Although he had encountered many negative reactions from people since he had joined the Academy, this one was one of those that bothered him the most, for as the oldest of a long family, his fraternal instincts automatically had wanted to reach out and help.
When Hirata said it - that he didn't want my help, it bothered me.
Juushirou sighed, reaching up to push a sodden lock of white hair from his eyes as he drove on through the endless rain. By this time his head and shoulders were so wet through that he was no longer as aware of the persistant flow of cold water that had begun to saturate his hair and his clothing. He raised his gaze to the horizon as the next second he saw a distant flash of lightning, followed by the soft yet ominous rumble of oncoming thunder. He had felt it coming before it had begun, and he had always loved storms, but the sight of it gave him no comfort this time.
And then there are things like what Iemura-kun said. That he wouldn't let someone like me help him, no matter whether I was Anideshi or not. Was it an arrogance, on my part, to expect that I can reach everyone just by talking to them? Did Sensei send me to tutor that class because he knew Iemura would react to me in a hostile way? Was that a test, too? Because if it was, how I feel now...I'm sure I failed. And with this too - even more. We're only just into the start of term...and already my being in this position is causing chaos.
Juushirou dodged a large puddle that was doing its best to become a small lake, his brow knitting together as he narrowly avoided a slick trail of mud that lay on the other side.
People always say it to me - about me - that I push and push till I win them over in one way or another. And Sensei's said that I'm a leader, whether I choose to lead or I don't. So I accepted this challenge of his and decided to see it through. But the way Tsukabishi looked at me bothered me. As though he was frightened of me. As though he didn't want to talk to me. Because I was the one causing him problems? And for someone to put him up to stealing my sword...surely everyone at the Academy knows how important a zanpakutou is to its master. The connection between the sword and the wielder is a soul connection. To try and steal Sougyo was an attempt to hurt me and hurt me in a way I wouldn't forget. But the Fifth years were our classmates last year, weren't they? Who have I made hate me that much since becoming Anideshi that they'd force a scared boy to do such a thing?
Focus on the task ahead, Juushirou.
You's voice broke unexpectedly through his thoughts at that moment, and Juushirou frowned, reaching down to touch the sodden hilt of his sword.
You. But how can I, clearly? The things are all woven in together. What Tsukabishi did, why he did it...I don't understand what's happened. Whether this is my fault, somehow, too. Whether I've upset people as Anideshi by trying to do my job.
"You will always upset people, Juushirou. That's a fact of life. By this point you should have discarded your naivety about popular opinion - and you should understand more clearly how this world works."
You, that's harsh." This time it was In's softer voice, and despite himself Juushirou was faintly comforted by the gentle tone in her words. "Juushirou is not at fault for the bad behaviour of others."
"No, but he will bear the burden of it just the same." You was unmoved. "The sooner he learns that and hardens himself to it the better. He has to realise clearly that his actions affect others - and deal with it accordingly."
"Juushirou's gift is that he doesn't do that. No matter how people are to him, he pushes on and doesn't let them bring him down." In reproached. "Juushirou, you shouldn't be discouraged by something beyond your control. Your friends said it too, didn't they? That if there are those who dislike you, they are not the majority."
But those are the opinions of my friends. People who are on my side - people I've already won over.
Juushirou's eyes were troubled.
Their opinions of me and what I can do are biased in my favour.
"Or they know you better than everyone else does, and therefore understand you better than others can." In suggested, and Juushirou was faintly aware of the swishing of a fish's tail across his senses.
"This world is not an easy one for someone like you." You added bluntly. "You've known this since you came to District One the first time. Nothing has changed since then. You've won people over, but you won't always win over everybody. Yamamoto Akira, for example - even if you fight him, even if you defeat him - I don't suppose that will change. And this...this too. Things like this will always be there. If you're so cast down by that that it hurts you now, perhaps you aren't ready to be involved in the Gotei at all."
You...
Juushirou faltered, almost stopping dead for a moment as he digested this.
Is that what you think? That even though I've come this far, you don't believe I'm ready?
"Juushirou, You and I react to your mood and speak to you the things that you don't speak to yourself." In said gently. "We are more bound to you than we ever were, and our emotions and yours connect far more closely than they did before. Those are not You's doubts, but your doubts - all he's done is speak them to you so that you can face them where you might have tried to push them aside. What you do with them is up to you - we can't answer the question of whether or not you are ready."
"You are our master. We are no longer your teachers in the same way we were when first you spoke our name." You added grimly. "People will always be against you. There is no such person in the world who achieves the approval of everyone around him. You are no different, Juushirou. You are no less flawed or more likely to succeed than any other in Seireitei. Whether you do succeed lies entirely in your hands. In and I are here to guide you and support you. We believe in you. But you have to believe in yourself - and that you are able to overcome their doubts and press on regardless."
Even though someone hates me enough that they'd try to steal you from me?
"One day, someone might hate you enough that they try to steal your life from you." You said gravely. "Such is the nature of a Shinigami's duty. Understand that, Juushirou. Your world is not perfect, and you cannot make it perfect alone."
"At present, a young boy needs your help." In added simply. "Whether he hates you or not - whether others hate you or not - that was your decision as Anideshi. Do you still believe that to be the right thing to do? Even if he pushes you away and rejects your help when you find him?"
Juushirou hesitated for a moment, then he nodded his head.
It hurts more coming from a young child like that, because it makes me think of one of my siblings pushing me away.
He admitted sadly.
But you're right. Both of you. Ever since this year began, there have been those nagging things at the back of my mind, digging into me and making me wonder about my position as Anideshi in this school. It's not just Yamamoto-kun, but other things. Little things. Things that shouldn't matter but things that...I haven't fully been able to shake.
His eyes narrowed.
Things like the attitude of some of the Fifth years who were kept down in order for us to be promoted. Thank you, In'you. Now you've focused my mind, I remember it - the confrontation on first day with Kamaki Azusa and the looks he gave me since. I had worried...the Fifth year was our year last year, and I had worried that someone I knew had been responsible for creating this rift. Someone I had studied with...someone I liked. But now I realise that I'd overlooked the most likely people to hate me. Those who have a reason to resent me - those who were kept down.
A sudden dark flare seeped across his senses at that moment, and he tensed, swinging around to the right as something sinister and unpleasant began to creep across the edge of his senses. He swallowed hard, all the hairs on the back of his neck pricking up as he interpreted what the sudden flood of tainted reiatsu meant.
A Hollow.
And then, almost at the same time he felt something else. Faint, and flickering, but clearly discernable - the reiatsu of a scared, lost young boy.
"Juushirou!"
You's voice was sharp and urgent now, but Juushirou had already reacted, his fingers closing around the hilt of the sword as he took to his heels, charging through the forest-land with no further thought to either the slick nature of the terrain or the torrenting rain that continued to pour down around him. All he knew was that there was a Hollow in the forest, a creature on the hunt for a vulnerable soul to steal and devour in the way one had once tried to devour him - and that its target was most likely the missing Academy student himself.
Without stopping to consider what he was doing, Juushirou released his own reiatsu, hoping against hope to draw the creature's attention away from the defenseless child and towards his own position. To do so was risky, he knew - he had no way of judging the strength of his opponent at this distance and although he had practiced many times with Sougyo no Kotowari against dummy hollows over the previous two years, he was still fundamentally terrified of fighting a real one face to face. He did not know whether Genryuusai would forgive him if he released his sword without permission outside of the school grounds, but as he heard the faint sound of a boy's tears, Juushirou threw caution to the wind, drawing his zanpakutou purposely from its sheath as he prepared to do battle.
A brief image of his father's bloody body flickered across his senses and he forced it away, gritting his teeth as he focused on what he intended to do.
I am not going to let anyone get killed by one of those things. I won't!
"Concentrate, Juushirou! It's coming your way - and the kid isn't far away either!"
You's voice steadied his rising panic, and he drew a deep breath into his lungs, trying to steady his reiryoku before it burned through his lungs and made him cough.
"Tsukabishi-kun!" As he broke through the densely packed trees into a clearing beyond, Juushirou could sense the boy's reiatsu more clearly, picking up the heavy waves of fear and despair that crashed over him. The Hollow was also close by, and the next moment there was a tremendous shriek as the air distorted, the rain spraying in all directions as a tree cracked and toppled across the path in front of him. Startled, Juushirou jumped back, his heart pounding as he realised how close it had come to hitting him, but there was not time to focus on near misses or uncertainties, for the next moment a clawed white and grey hand pushed through the undergrowth, and Juushirou saw his enemy face to face.
Its eyes glowed a horrible reddish in the night haze of rain and moonlight, and Juushirou could just about make out the edges of a jagged white mask as it opened its jaws to let out another shriek of despair. At the same time, the sky was split by a tremendous flare of white lightning, and as the copse was suddenly illuminated, Juushirou saw Tsunemori for the first time, huddled in terror at the base of a tree.
"Tsukabishi-kun!" He exclaimed, and the boy glanced up, as though startled by his senior's sudden appearance on the scene. "Tsukabishi-kun, get away! Run away from here - it's not safe!"
"Senpai." Tsunemori gulped, and then, in a panicked yell, "Senpai, I'm stuck! I'm stuck! I can't get up and the Hollow..."
"Stuck?" Before Juushirou could pursue this any more, the Hollow dropped its huge limbs down in the white haired boy's direction. Juushirou swung Sougyo no Kotowari desperately towards him, the blade resonating against the tough surface of the beast's skin, but it did not cut it, and the Hollow reeled back only for a brief moment, quickly lowering its terrifying visage towards Juushirou's body and breathing a hot, fetid burst of air towards him as though sizing him up for the kill. For a moment, the Senior felt his body paralyse with fear, and he swallowed hard, struggling even to breathe as the monster drew closer and closer.
I can't cut him. I can't cut him. I can't cut through with Sougyo. I can't...
"Senpai!" Tsunemori's hysterical scream brought him sharply back to the present, and he rallied his courage, tightening his hold on Sougyo no Kotowari's hilt.
If he did not fight this Hollow now - kill this Hollow now - he would be killed. He would be killed, and then the boy - the young First year he had come to rescue - he would be killed as well.
The beast's reiatsu was strong - stronger than the Hollow who had killed his father, and stronger than the one they had encountered in this forest when they had been camping. It was an angry beast, a creature full of despair and pain - but more importantly, it was a creature who was hungry and whose mind was set firmly on making a kill.
"Juushirou, calm down. You and I are here - you don't have to do this alone." In's voice brushed over him like a calming stream rippling over jagged rocks, and despite himself, the Senior found his panic settling as he understood what they had told him to do. He took an unsteady breath of air into his lungs as he made up his mind, lifting his weapon with shaking hands so that his left palm covered the hilt.
"Nami kotogotoku, wa ga tate to nare." He whispered.