Chapter Twenty Eight: Naoko Interferes
"Ukitake-kun, would it be all right to speak to you, just for a moment?"
As Juushirou fastened the lock on the door of the nest, he was accosted by a female voice and he turned, surprise and consternation flooding his features as he took in Naoko waiting at the end of the hall.
It was already late in the morning, and most of his classmates had gone on ahead to their morning Zanjutsu Theory seminar in preparation for the Senior assessments that would begin later on that day. After his antics in the storm and against Akira, Juushirou had not been to class or the library for the previous few days – and as a result he had stopped up late the night before, hastily revising notes by the light of his Kidou lamp and losing track of time. For that reason he was already running late, and now Naoko's sudden appearance had taken him off guard. They would both be late for their morning session if they weren't careful – and with Juushirou's resolve to succeed at his position of Anideshi, he was determined to do nothing more to make Genryuusai cross.
"It's almost time for class, Shikibu-san." He said now. "I'm afraid I overslept a little this morning and I'm behind myself – so I've only just got ready. Is it very urgent, what you want to say? Because I don't want to miss this class. I've missed enough already."
"It's Zanjutsu Theory. You're already good at that." Naoko said dismissively. "But if you like, we can walk and talk as we go. I don't mean to detain you for a very long time – I just think that, after giving it consideration…I ought to talk to you. When I saw you hadn't left yet, it seemed like a good time."
"I suppose that wouldn't hurt." Juushirou said cautiously. "If we talk and walk, then that should be all right."
"Good." Naoko's face cleared, and she fell into step with him, easily keeping pace as they made brisk progress towards the main stairs.
"It's unusual for you to want to speak to me like this." After a few moments of silence, it was Juushirou who spoke, casting his companion a quizzical glance. "Is this an Anideshi matter, Shikibu-san? Or something else?"
"No, it's not really Anideshi's." Naoko looked thoughtful. "And I'm thinking how best to address it. It's potentially a sensitive issue – that's why I wanted to speak to you alone."
"Shikibu-san…"
"You must be aware that Mitsuki and I aren't really speaking to each other at the moment?"
"Mm. Yes. Shunsui said…something about it." Juushirou was uneasy at this sudden shift in the conversation. "But I don't know what it was about, and I'm certainly not going to get involved. So if you wanted me to speak to Mitsuki about something for you…"
"No. No, nothing like that." Naoko dismissed this with a flick of her fingers. "I'm sorry if I gave you that impression – it's not that at all. Although it does concern Mitsuki, I wasn't going to drag you into the middle of a girls' disagreement."
"But it does concern Mitsuki?" Juushirou was startled. "In what way, exactly?"
"Mm." Naoko's expression became troubled. "I know you're fond of her, so I hope I'm not out of place saying the things I'm going to say. It's just that a lot of things have happened…and well, Mitsuki is…not always the quickest to see the implications of those things until it's far too late."
"Implications?" Juushirou was completely lost now. "I'm sorry, Shikibu-san. I don't know what you're talking about."
"I assumed Mitsuki had spoken to you about things at the Kuchiki estate?" Naoko seemed surprised, and Juushirou shook his head.
"Not a lot." He admitted. "Neither she nor Ryuu have. Well, it's not my business. Not anyone's, really. And I think they wanted to leave it behind them. So…no."
"Ah. Then that explains it." Naoko nodded, as if she had just confirmed something to herself. "Look, Ukitake-kun, the thing is that even though we've clashed horns lately, I still consider Mitsuki my friend. I know…I know that at the moment she's angry, and I understand why she is. She has reason to be – because when someone flings truth at you and you're not ready for it, well…"
She shrugged.
"I picked a bad time." She admitted. "But I was only trying to look out for her. And now I've calmed down, I'm still concerned for her well being. You know that some terrible things happened in District Six besides the murder – Sora said something about Mitsuki drenched in blood and trying to save servants from some unknown enemy, and even though Sora's given to exaggerating, I don't think…well, I think that was the truth. She's been under such a lot of strain, and now…it's starting to take its toll on her."
"Take its toll?" Juushirou echoed, looking bemused. Naoko nodded.
"The Unohana have a lot of healers, so I understand more than she thinks." She said quietly. "You know too, though, don't you? About Mitsuki's senses and how she picks up on the least thing. She's very susceptible to outside mood – and if I'm honest, I think what's happened at home has thoroughly upset her. There were people she couldn't save – and for the first time she had the eyes of the Clan on her."
"I don't quite understand what any of this has to do with you talking to me, though." Juushirou frowned. "And we're almost at class, so if you wanted to say something particularly, Shikibu-san…"
"I did." Naoko nodded. "And if you say it like that, well, then I'll just try and be direct and hope you'll forgive me if I've been too blunt."
"All right. I'll promise not to be offended." Juushirou offered her a grin. "What is it that's bothering you – if you're worried about Mitsuki and the strain, is it that you think while she's mad at you, some of the rest of us can keep a better eye on her than you can? Because you should just talk it out with her, if you feel like that. I'm sure deep down Mitsuki knows you care about her."
"Mm. Yes and no, but mostly no." Naoko pursed her lips, then lowered her voice.
"I am aware that Mitsuki harbours affection for you." She said softly, and despite himself, Juushirou's cheeks reddened at her words. "And that you feel similarly fond of her. I know that you've not pursued it, and that you're too sensible a person to do so, given your differences in class level – but even so, I know the emotions are there."
Juushirou did not reply, and Naoko continued.
"But the Kuchiki are currently in a bad state. Their heir is dead, and everything else is unstable. More to the point, though, Mitsuki was drawn to the centre of that Clan and acknowledged by Guren-sama because of her saving Nagoya-senpai's life. She's no longer on the fringes of her family – what she does will be far more closely watched from now on by many, many people."
"More closely…?"
"I know your family live in District Six." Naoko continued gravely. "And I know Mitsuki would not want any harm to befall any of them. Or you, for that matter. But I do remember that…your own bloodline, far from being purely District, has a significant Kuchiki scandal somewhere in its history. And I don't know whether the central Clan are aware of such connections, but…given Mitsuki's position now, and your own…"
She trailed off, and Juushirou stared at her, a stricken expression in his eyes.
"But we're only friends!" He protested, and Naoko nodded.
"I know how Clans work." She said frankly. "Especially when they're rattled. They look for weaknesses and do their best to close ranks. This year we graduate, Ukitake-kun. And whilst the rest of us have Clan to sponsor us into future roles, you alone do not. If you aren't careful now, you might find all your work is for nothing. You understand what I'm saying, don't you? That if you cross any Clan, you'll be in a poor state but…to cross the Kuchiki Clan…or have you forgotten which family it is that granted you permission to hold a sword in the first place?"
Colour drained from Juushirou's features.
"I don't intend on making an enemy of any Kuchiki." He managed at length. "Mitsuki and Ryuu are my friends – even if I'm fond of Mitsuki, we both understand the limitations. That's all there is, Shikibu-san. I know you're acting out of concern for both of us – but really, you needn't. We both know already where we stand."
"I'm glad." Naoko seemed relieved. "In that case, it won't be a problem…if things work out the way I think they might."
"Work out the way…?"
"Mitsuki is adamant she's going to follow Retsu-sama and be a healer in Fourth, without any help from her Clan." Naoko sighed heavily. "But I don't know if her Clan will really let her go. Even trained like this, now she's proven her worth to her family, they might try to keep her. Her father has never been overly fond of the idea of her vocation, and I don't know…if Mitsuki can really fight against it, no matter how strongly she believes she can. She has a lot of ideals, but in reality she's always been protected and she's never had to strike out on her own like she would need to in order to overcome those things. On top of that, there will be people in Fourth squad who she will have to compete with at a disadvantage. I'm not certain Guren-sama would sanction one of his kinswomen being subjected to anything like that. The Kuchiki take pride very seriously indeed."
"Mitsuki believes in this vocation, though. It's what she wants to do." Juushirou recovered himself. "Surely that's enough?"
"That's your District naivety." Naoko shook her head. "I wasn't talking about what Mitsuki wanted. Only what the Clans around her will decide for her when she graduates the Academy. We'll see whether she can claw a path for herself – but now Guren-sama has seen her, I suspect he'll want to keep her close to home and utilise her skills for his own purposes. Realistically, I don't think Mitsuki, even with all her idealism, is a match for Guren-sama and his government. And from the little I gleaned before we had our unfortunate disagreement…Mitsuki seems to have been pushed a lot into the company of Nagoya-senpai. Conveniently, he's a man of equivalent birth rank and suitable age and pedigree to whom she could make a very stable and successful match."
Juushirou stopped dead, reeling as if struck by his own sword, and Naoko eyed him keenly.
"Ah. You didn't know that, then." She murmured. "Mitsuki's spent a lot of time in Nagoya-senpai's company of late…that she's become fond of him even though they never spoke before, and that there are those who believe there's a potential future in their marrying? If Teitou-dono has sense, he'll work to secure that arrangement before Mitsuki finishes here and is able to protest. Girls are seldom listened to as much as boys in that Clan, and so if Nagoya-senpai was agreeable, she might find it a fait accompli before she even returned home. With the family unstable, such a match would help bring greater security and many people would be glad to have Mitsuki nearby. Now she's come out before her family as a Healer, I doubt they will want to lose her."
"You think they'll make her marry against her will?" Juushirou's eyes clouded, and Naoko laughed, patting him almost condescendingly on the arm.
"You really don't understand Clan." She said gently. "That's how most marriages are in noble families. But if you want my opinion, Ukitake-kun, I don't think that Mitsuki would find it against her tastes to marry Nagoya-senpai. By her own testimony, she likes him a good deal and they are now close. But…given the understanding you two already have…I'm surprised she didn't already talk to you about him. Perhaps she's fonder of him than I thought – too fond to know how to share it."
At that point they reached the classroom, and as the bell chimed out through the halls, Juushirou pushed the door open, stepping inside and somehow locating his seat. His mind was whirling after Naoko's revelations, and as he sank down behind his desk, he caught Mitsuki's eye by accident across the room. She offered him a faint smile, and something in her clouded grey eyes put Juushirou suddenly on his guard. With difficulty he managed to return the smile, but as Genryuusai came to take his place before them, he found himself feeling hollow inside.
Mitsuki and Shikibu-san aren't speaking at the moment, so it's possible that Shikibu-san simply misunderstood.
As the old man began to review the main topics for the afternoon paper, Juushirou tapped his finger absently against the wood of the desk, struggling to pay attention to what was being taught.
But also, Shikibu-san does know more about Clans. And even if it wasn't Mitsuki's will to marry someone else…the family might make her. That I know can happen. I've heard enough about the Kuchiki to believe that it could, even if Mitsuki didn't want it. Mitsuki did save Nagoya-senpai's life, which was a good thing. No wonder they'd become friends afterwards. But…oh, I don't know.
He rubbed his temples.
For now, I won't think about it. I have no proof, and I want to talk it out with someone else. If not Mitsuki herself, then Shunsui – see if I can make sense of what's going on. Also…maybe I'll ask Ryuu about Nagoya-senpai. About how he is – see if I can find out whether what Shikibu-san said was true about him and Mitsuki becoming closer. I can't think that she'd not tell me anything important, but because I've been ill, I suppose we haven't had much time to talk. And maybe she just didn't think it was important. I'm not going to let myself get upset about something until I know what the situation is.
A faint, rueful smile touched his lips.
Besides, I really don't have a right to be upset. Even if Mitsuki did become engaged to someone else, someone in her Clan, someone of her birthline – what right do I have to begrudge her it? I've told her enough times that she shouldn't tie up her whole future by saying she wasn't going to marry and that she was in love with me. I have too much to do and so does she - not just here, but out in the world beyond this school. We can't take our connection any further and we'd probably be stupid to try, so if she did marry someone else, I should be happy for her. If she did…if she did…
A lump rose in his throat, but he fought it back.
If it did, I'd accept it. If she wanted it, I'd accept it. Because we are just friends. And that's what friends do. They support each other and move forward to achieve their goals.
"Ukitake?" Genryuusai's voice cut through his words at that moment and he flushed red, scrambling to his feet as he realised all eyes were on him.
"Sorry, Sensei." He babbled, knowing that at the back of the room Akira's eyes were boring deep into his spine as if willing him to make a further fool of himself.
"I imagine you didn't hear my question?" Genryuusai asked gently, and sheepishly Juushirou shook his head.
"I didn't. I'm sorry, Sir. I suppose I wasn't…really following what you were saying."
"Then I'd ask you to try and follow more closely from this point on. The exam this afternoon won't make allowances for daydreaming, even for those convalescing from fever."
Genryuusai indicated for him to sit down, and Juushirou did so, his cheeks still blazing red.
After I'd made up my mind not to be a bother to anyone any more this year, too. It's one thing on top of another - I just deal with one insecurity when someone throws another one in my face. But it's not fever that's bothering me and it's not haibyou making me feel messed up like this. Shikibu-san might not have meant to upset me – and what she said might be complete fantasy. It's stupid for me to take any of it to heart, but I can't help but do it. I'll have to try to get to the bottom of it, and work out for myself what is and isn't true, otherwise I'm going to spend all my time thinking about it. I'd rather at least know for sure what the situation is - then I know what I'm facing and I can accept it properly and move on. If I don't do that, it'll just distract me and I'll never graduate at all!
It felt as though he had already been travelling for weeks.
Shirogane sank down beside the flowing river, relaxing his barriers as he bent to cup his hands in the clear, flowing water. He could see the darting tails of fish and the glint of sunlight against their scales deep below the water, and absently he wondered what chance he might have to catch a couple for food. He had undergone rigorous training for such things as a boy, both before and after his arrival at the Academy, but he had never been in a serious situation where survival skills had been needed and as a result he had eaten very little since leaving the main house, worrying instead about covering his tracks.
Now, though, he was a good way from the central Kuchiki estate, and from the lack of pursuers on his tail, he had surmised that Seiren and the others had already guessed his intended destination. They probably knew that he would head for District One – if they believed him to be plotting against Ryuu's life, then he would have to at some point broach Yamamoto land and try and reach his target directly. And if they did not believe him capable of that level of treason – well, Guren would know that the only person of any influence outside of the Kuchiki who Shirogane might call on for help was his old teacher, Genryuusai.
The quickest route to District One was through Districts Seven and Eight, and Shirogane knew the whereabouts of two or three newly built Senkaimon that led from his family's land to one of these two destinations. But he knew just as well that if he used his zanpakutou to unseal these doorways, his movements would be traceable, and so he had refrained from activating even one of the spiritual doors, instead preferring to stick to the land. It would make his journey all the more difficult that way, for Seiren's soldiers would be able to pursue him on foot and on horseback. Finally he had decided not to make for the Endou territory, and instead had begun to work his way towards the other side of District Six – moving ever closer to the divide with District Five.
I didn't realise how big District Six would be on foot, but I am almost at the coast, thank goodness. In another day I may be out of Kuchiki jurisdiction completely, if I have a little luck.
After splashing his face liberally with the gleaming water from the river, Shirogane cupped his hands beneath the flow once more, drinking thirstily and without restraint as he replenished his depleted reserves. If things had been normal, he would never have thought of drinking mere river water, preferring to wait until he could find a more suitable natural spring or other Clan inspected supply. But now he was out of other options, and so he drank, the bitter coldness of the water refreshing to his dry throat.
This river is clear enough to see through, and fish live here, so the chances are the water is all right. Ribari-sama, I can almost hear you laughing at me, for sinking to such depths and imitating the common people in the villages that we used to see when out on patrol. Neither of us understood their actions, but now I see that they weren't being foolish. I didn't know that river water could taste so good, but when you're thirsty…I suppose water tastes its best then.
As he sat back on the damp grass, he once more turned his thoughts to the problem of food.
I can camp near here tonight – I'm sure there's heavy enough cover for me to try and sleep at least for a little while. If not here, then the forests up ahead are supposed to be very thick and they run all down one side of the land towards the Shiba border. Since they'll probably be looking for me on the other side of the District, I should be all right for at least a day before they realise what I intend to do. And by that point I'll be well ahead of them…at least, so I hope. Even if they do realise what I've done and start sending men this side of the District, they probably won't expect me to take the gambles I've decided on. They'll move for the borderlands first and foremost – they won't think that it's the sea I'm making for. Only a madman would think to escape from the coves when good solid pathways exist to all other routes.
He clasped Ginkyoujiki's hilt loosely, pulling it from its sheath and gazing at its sharp, proud blade with a rueful smile.
I have never used my zanpakutou for something so mundane as catching fish before, either. I wonder what Sensei would say to me now, if he knew that I was drawing my weapon to fight and that my target were harmless river fish who just happened to cross my path. I suppose I should be grateful, though, that I have some limited experience of such operations. Camping in the second year seemed a bind at the time, but now I think I can use what we learnt then to survive on my own now. Kidou fires, gutting fish and collecting water. Who would ever have guessed that even I would one day need those skills.
He sighed, then directed his weapon's shining tip towards the sun-speckled surface of the river water, his gaze searching beneath the surface once more for any sign of the fish he had seen earlier. He would have to be completely still so as not to give them any advance warning, for the clearness of the water allowed the swift creatures to dart and dash away from any unexpected shadows falling across the surface. His weapon was both swift and efficient, though, and as he murmured the release command, a bevy of small silver petals shot like shrapnel through the water, sending wild ripples scattering in all directions as the fragments of Ginkyoujiki's blade penetrated deep below the surface.
The force of his zanpakutou's signature attack was enough to send most of the fish hastily fleeing for the safety of the river reeds that lined each bank, but not all of them were a match for Ginkyoujiki's speed, and as the silver petals made contact with their bodies, the force of the impact drove two of the unfortunate creatures out of the water, leaving them bloody and helplessly flapping on the bank.
Reforming his sword, Shirogane stood over them for a moment, watching their gills open and shut as the fish struggled for breath. Then he brought the weapon swiftly down, decapitating both in an instant and ending their distress.
A quick death is the warrior's way, even when hunting for food.
Carefully Shirogane set about gutting and preparing the fish, his techniques crude but well remembered from his Academy days. A flicker of Kidou energy began a small, controlled fire in a patch of dry grass not far from the river bank, and carefully he cooked his prize, the flavoured smoke only enhancing his appetite and reminding him that he had truly not given a thought to food since he had fled his home.
He made short work of his meal, wiping the fish blood and scales from his zanpakutou and sending it a silent apology before returning it to its scabbard. Ginkyoujiki hummed faintly in response, its disapproval resonating through his master's mind, but Shirogane knew that his weapon understood.
This is a matter of must, and therefore it had to be done. Thank goodness for a sword with such easy comprehension. It would not do for me to lose my one remaining ally over the need to gut a fish.
As he kicked apart the remains of his fire, trying to conceal proof of his having been here, he heard a rustle from the undergrowth and he froze, his fingers once more around Ginkyoujiki's hilt as he tried to work out what had made the noise. A flock of birds broke through into the sunlight and he drew breath sharply, berating himself for being so easily put on edge. The birds shrieked and flapped their way towards the clouds, clearly just as put out by his presence as he had been by theirs, and as he watched them, Shirogane found himself envying their ability to spread wings and soar beyond the District boundaries.
The next moment all thought of the birds was gone from his mind, as he felt the prick of a sword up against his back and he tensed, realising that it had not been his presence but the approach of another that had frightened the flock into flight.
"Release your sword hilt, Shirogane-dono. You will go no further today."
The man's voice was soft and respectful, but Shirogane felt the blade dig a little deeper against his spine, as if conveying an unspoken threat. Gathering his wits hurriedly he stole a glance out of the corner of his eye, trying to work out whether or not he could take his attacker off guard, but he soon realised that the man was not alone, for another retainer stepped out of the woodland, his weapon similarly drawn.
Ginkyoujiki was still sheathed, and as quick as he was, Shirogane was fairly sure he could not draw the weapon before the man behind him would be able to sever through his spinal column. They were not shinigami, simply retainers, but as the second man stepped more clearly into his line of sight, Shirogane recognised the soldier's badge and cursed himself for having let his guard down.
Out loud he said,
"Seiren-dono is being very attentive, if he sent you all the way here to find me."
"Our orders are to locate and bring you back to the main estate alive." The soldier said evenly, his own weapon rising towards Shirogane's throat. "But we can kill you, if you resist our arrest. Seiren-dono wanted us to be thorough – therefore men have been dispatched to every corner of District Six."
"There is nowhere to hide." The second man, whose weapon was still nestling uncomfortably against Shirogane's vertebra put in. "To avoid causing further distress to the local people, we don't intend on letting you escape a second time. Even injured or maimed, we will bring you back to face Guren-sama's judgement."
"Guren-sama has nothing to do with this." Shirogane protested, and the man before him smiled, a strange, unpleasant smile.
"On the contrary, Guren-sama has instructed that we are to bring you back to answer significant questions about your recent activity." He said quietly, putting his hand in his pocket and pulling out a folded sheet of paper. "Read it for yourself, if you don't believe me. This is our brief. It bears the Clan leader's seal."
Numbly Shirogane took it, skimming down the columns of formal kanji. It was written in Shibata's hand, but the soldier was right – at the bottom, alongside Seiren's seal was that of Guren himself. He bit his lip, his fingers trembling slightly as he handed it back.
So Guren-sama believes this fantasy as well? Is he now my enemy too – am I real traitor in District Six even in his eyes?
"Since you hurt our comrades back at the main house, nobody is taking any chances with you now." The soldier retrieved the parchment, pulling two narrow silver items from his obi and fastening them around Shirogane's wrists before the young nobleman could gather his wits. As they clicked closed around his skin, Shirogane felt a sudden sense of fatigue wash over him, his arms and legs becoming heavier and more difficult to move as his reiryoku was sealed away. Ginkyoujiki's comforting presence had also been forced far from his senses, and inwardly he cursed once more.
So it is true. Someone attuned to fighting with spirit power is weaker than an average person if they should lose that power. My body is used to running on reiryoku. Without it - how much slower will I prove to be?
"There'll be no repeat performance – not with your Kidou, nor with your zanpakutou." The soldier continued, as if reading his companion's thoughts. There was an unpleasant smile on his face, and despite the man's calm demeanour, Shirogane could see deep dislike burning in the other's eyes.
"Those bands will seal any spirit power still flowing through you – so I suggest you come quietly, and avoid more fuss."
Shirogane gazed around him hastily, looking for any angle of escape, but that sword dug into his back again.
"I wouldn't try that." The voice was now close to his ear, and Shirogane could feel the other man's hot breath against his skin. "Some of our comrades have stopped at the coastal manor and shinigami from Kinnya-sama's estate will soon be dispatched to hunt you down as well as our men. Even if you gave us the slip, with your spirit power sealed you won't be able to do the same with them. It will slow you down - you've realised that already, haven't you? That with your reiryoku sealed, you're no better than we are...perhaps considerably at a disadvantage. Your pathways are all closed now. There isn't anywhere else for you to run."
Kinnya-sama? Wait...this is his land?
Shirogane faltered for a moment, then his shoulders slumped, and he dropped his arms to his side, lowering his gaze to the ground as he thought furiously about what to do.
If Kinnya-sama bothers to dispatch anyone it will be a first – but it's true that I can't rely on any Kuchiki sympathy if even Guren-sama has endorsed this order. And of all the places to be found - this area has both a standing military unit and a shinigami unit to protect the local people hereabouts. I was in more danger coming to the coast than I realised...Seiren-dono has out-thought me. Anyone who sees the document that ingrate carries will know that to shield me is treason and therefore death by the blade. Nobody would risk that. There is nobody in District Six who can even hope to stand against Guren-sama if he was to release the wrath of his zanpakutou and if he is angry…as he must be…
He forced those thoughts away, focusing instead on his predicament.
But there are only two of them. Even if my power is sealed, it isn't impossible for me to elude them if I can get them to lower their guard enough. If I can. Those cuffs are stifling my reiryoku, and making me feel lethargic. But they aren't chained together, and I can still move. Because I fought with Ginkyoujiki at the main estate, they assume I can only fight with him released. So I'll let them believe that a little while. With my body like this, I'll need the element of surprise to stand any chance against them at all, but It's worth a try. Also, they clearly don't like me. Because I slashed up their comrades? Probably. I suppose I can't blame them for that, though. I'd be the same if it was one of Sixth...
Ribari's face flitted unbidden across his thoughts at that moment, and Shirogane faltered, forcing his mind away from his young deshi.
There was nothing on that parchment that said I could be killed - but those eyes struck me as the eyes of someone who'd be happy to take the risk and then claim self-defence if I put up too much of a fight. I'll just have to cooperate with them a while. Until they feel I'm their prisoner, and then…somehow…I'll escape.
Out loud he said,
"If Guren-sama wants to see me, I have no reason to flee from you. I wanted an audience with him anyway – I was just not granted it, because of Seiren-dono's actions against me."
"You'd be better of holding your tongue about Seiren-dono when stood before his men." The second man warned him, but the blade was gone from his back, and Shirogane found he could once more breathe more easily. "But if that's how you feel, then there's no need for further conflict. We'll take you to the Coastal manor and send word to Guren-sama – he can decide your fate."
Shirogane inclined his head in acceptance, all the time formulating a plan in his mind.
So I was right. They're not meant to kill me, even if they'd secretly like to. For all their threats, their orders are to bring me before the Clan leader. Guren-sama wants to hear what I have to say - unfortunately it's too late for me to be able to say it. When Seiren-dono has gone this far...and with Guren-sama's seal alongside his own - going back would be a mistake. Possibly a fatal one. Seiren-dono might be going by the book at the moment, but the truth is he wants me dead - and if I let myself be taken back, somehow he'll make it happen. He's probably told his men to kill me if I resist arrest - which is why I mustn't do that unless the right opportunity presents.
"Only a fool tries to fight when he's outnumbered and at a severe physical disadvantage." He said out loud, fixing his captors with an even, unhurried smile. "Providing you can promise me an audience with Guren-sama, I will go wherever you lead me."
"You have one hour."
Kazoe settled himself more comfortably behind the invigilator's desk at the front of the seminar room, gesturing with his familiar cane towards the students and the folded sheets of writing paper that lay on each desk. On the board behind him, scribed in chalk in his familiar, fastidious characters were the two questions for the afternoon's Zanjutsu Theory exam, as set by their Headmaster, and as Ryuu ran his gaze over each of them a second time, he groaned inwardly, tapping the dry end of his brush absently against the seamed wood.
All around him, the other students had already begun writing, and with a rueful glance back at the board, Ryuu swiped his brush against the ink stone, reaching for the first sheet of blank paper.
All the reading I have done, yet still such a badly worded question. Or maybe it is well worded – and I simply do not understand fully what it is asking of me.
After writing his name and the date, he paused, chewing on the wood tip of his expensive brush as he considered how to answer the first of the two demanding essay questions. As a young boy, he had been scolded perpetually for this bad habit, and once, after he had managed to chew so hard he got splinters in his lips, he had even been threatened with the cane if he did not desist. These days he had largely given it up, but that afternoon, as he found himself struggling to draw together a decent answer, it was all too easy to slip back into old habits.
I have missed only a few weeks of classes, and I have not done the research for the written assignments the others have, but surely a few weeks is no comparison to four years of careful study up to this point? They cannot have covered so many things in my absence that mean I cannot find something to say about this subject! Zanjutsu Theory is half Ouyoudou and half Sakusen in its construction – both subjects I have no trouble excelling in on a normal basis. Yet for the life of me I cannot see it. How to put into decent lexis something that will pass muster with Genryuusai-sensei as a Senior's work.
He stole a glance to the left, where Mitsuki, head bent and dark hair trailing over the edge of the desk, seemed to be having better luck. On her far side, he could see Shunsui lolling in his usual fashion all over his desk, lazily scribing characters as if he had all the time in the world. There was something calm and unhurried in his manner, and Ryuu gritted his teeth, unconsciously grinding the brush between his jaws as he reflected that probably whatever his classmate was writing in his hopelessly haphazard kanji, it would almost certainly net him a high mark.
Across to his right was Juushirou, and Ryuu was surprised to see that the District boy had also barely begun to write, staring off into space a little as though his mind was a mile from the exam in front of him. As Ryuu tried to work this out, he caught the boy's eye, and Juushirou offered him a faintly sheepish smile. It was no more than that, but Ryuu felt a little comforted by that glance.
Perhaps I'm not the only one confused by the choice of rhetoric. Although I'm sure Sensei set these questions to challenge us – somehow written in Kazoe's style, they seem all the more complicated.
He let out a sigh, taking the brush from his mouth and eying the chew marks that now adorned the end with a resigned air.
There were probably only fifty five minutes left now. He would just have to do his best.
'The fundamental ethics of blade science indicate that there are several key ways in which to best motivate and activate a sleeping sword into differing levels of reiryoku usage.'
He wrote carefully, filling the paper with small, identically sized and spaced kanji and kana characters.
'A zanpakutou is a living entity, and therefore should not be considered entirely as a simple form of weapon. However, there is no denying that the scientific principles underpinning a zanpakutou in a conflict situation are much the same as those relating to simple asauchi or other types of sword. In some instances, it is possible and even preferable to fight with a zanpakutou blade sealed rather than released.'
He glanced at the brush tip, resisted the urge to put it back between his teeth, then added,
'In a situation involving young children or those who are vulnerable to sudden blasts of spiritual energy, caution must be used when releasing a sword to shikai level.'
His mind flitted to Juushirou's escapade with Tsunemori.
'However in these instances it may be better to pursue combat with a more basic weapon, since using a zanpakutou at a restricted level may hamper a shinigami's ability to fight effectively. In most situations, a battle involving a zanpakutou would be conducted against other like spiritual opposition, such as the Hollow. When facing a Hollow, the strength and threat posed by the creature must be taken fully into account before engaging in full combat. There is no sense in using a full release Shikai on a weak opponent, but there may also be danger in releasing too soon or too slowly against a more obstinate target'.
A knock on the door of the classroom broke his train of thought and he glanced up, his brows creasing in annoyance as he saw one of the younger students sidle into the room, her eyes wide as she observed her seniors huddled so seriously and silently over their desks.
"This is an examination." Kazoe spoke quietly, but his words were pointed. "If you bring a message for me, surely it could have waited?"
The young girl swallowed hard, then scuttled over to him, bending her head low as she whispered the words almost into his ear. Ryuu, his attention firmly on Kazoe now, saw the Kidou master's expression become first one of consternation, then one of annoyance, and finally of resignation. At length he nodded, dismissing the youngster, who took the opportunity to flee to a safer location.
Slowly and reluctantly he got to his feet.
"Kuchiki Ryuu, Edogawa Mitsuki. Set down your brushes." He said, in a tone that told Ryuu something of considerable importance had occurred. He did so, knowing that every member of the class had now paused in their writing to stare at the front of the room.
"I do not like this, but you are both to go to Genryuusai-sensei's office immediately." Kazoe spoke softly, moving to collect both students' incomplete papers. "Since this is his exam, and he has sent for you, I can do nothing about it. If he tells you to return here, you must – if not, you are dismissed and may not re-enter until the exam has ended. Understand?"
Ryuu and Mitsuki exchanged looks, but there was no time for asking questions, and as Kazoe took the barely written sheet from Ryuu's desk, he got to his feet, moving towards the door. Neither one spoke until they reached the hallway, but once the divide had closed behind them, Mitsuki turned a frightened gaze to meet his troubled one.
"Something at home." She whispered, and slowly Ryuu nodded.
"It must be." He agreed pensively. "I won't pretend I'm not glad to be called from that exam, but if the circumstances are severe enough for Sensei to alert us during his own examination…"
"Yes." Mitsuki chewed down on her lip. "Yes, I thought so too. What do you suppose it is, Ryuu-kun? We've been back here only days. What could have happened?"
"If we move quickly, we'll find out." Ryuu said grimly. "Come on."
"I suppose we've both failed Zanjutsu now." Mitsuki said resignedly as they hurried through the quiet hallways towards the Principal's office. "It's a pity. I was hoping to get a good mark, since even if my sword techniques aren't combative, I can still understand how Yuyuugo works. I didn't think being absent would count against me in this subject – and now this happens instead."
"You seemed to be writing more fluidly than I was." Ryuu remarked. "I couldn't make head nor tail of what was being asked. But we shouldn't discuss it. Just in case Sensei tells us to re-enter the exam. It would be cheating, if we talked about it – that would not be fair on the rest."
"True." Mitsuki agreed. "All right. I won't say any more."
At that juncture they reached the office, and Ryuu rapped smartly on the door, waiting for the familiar voice to call them in. Genryuusai did so, and from the tone of his voice, the young Kuchiki greatly suspected he had not summoned them on his own choice.
Sure enough, on entering the chamber, he could see that the headmaster was not alone, and that by the desk stood a messenger clad in the green and cream retinue of the Kuchiki Clan.
His heart sank into his sandals.
From home then, with haste.
"Ryuu. Mitsuki. Thank you for coming quickly." Genryuusai gestured for them to come into the room proper, and Mitsuki carefully closed the door behind them. "I'm sorry to have disturbed your exam this afternoon, but we will address that matter later."
"Something's happened at home, hasn't it?" Mitsuki's voice was anxious, and at her words the messenger bowed his head towards her, raising it to meet her gaze solemnly.
"Edogawa-hime, Ryuu-sama, I have been sent with all urgency by Lord Seiren to convey a message to you both in person, as well as to Genryuusai-sama. My instructions are to deliver it in full and await a response – hence I asked to see you at once, if it was not too great an inconvenience."
"I suppose Father's orders are difficult to override or resist in the current crisis." Ryuu said quietly. "Well? What is this message?"
"Yes, sir." The messenger bowed again, his action suddenly striking Ryuu as ridiculously over-deferential, then, "I have been instructed to inform you both that there is grave suspicion lodged at present against Nagoya Shirogane-dono, son of Masane-hime and your own blood cousin. Evidence has surfaced of a nature strong enough to arrest him under suspicion of conspiracy against yourself, Ryuu-sama, and perhaps even against the late Lord Ribari."
"What?" Mitsuki paled, and Ryuu's eyes narrowed.
I knew it. I knew that Senpai would get too close to things if we left him behind…and now…
Out loud he said,
"Well? And what measures have been taken?"
"An attempt to arrest Lord Shirogane was made, but he attacked the officers and fled into the woodland." The messenger reported gravely. "His whereabouts are currently unknown, but it is believed he may head for this location. If his designs really are on…on your safety, Ryuu-sama, then Seiren-sama wants it known with the ultimate urgency in order that you can be fully protected."
"Your master does not believe that my Academy is a safe location?" Genryuusai interjected at this moment, and the messenger sent him a troubled look.
"I meant no offence, Genryuusai-sama, and nor does Lord Seiren." He said hurriedly. "But those are the words I must convey, and now I…have conveyed them."
"Indeed you have." Genryuusai's expression was unreadable, and Ryuu sighed, rubbing his temples.
"I understand the message." He said at length, meeting the messenger's gaze with a level one of his own. "I will be sure to keep on my guard. However, you may tell my Father that I have absolute faith in Genryuusai-sensei's ability to protect us as students, and I do not feel I am in harm's way. Besides, it seems likely that Shirogane will be apprehended before he makes it this far. There are several District barriers between Sixth and First."
"Yes, sir." The messenger saluted sharply. "I will return and relay your words in full. Thank you for your time."
And with that he was gone, the door of the study sliding shut behind him.
A moment of silence followed, then Genryuusai sighed, stroking his beard.
"Your father appears very busy at the moment, Ryuu." He said lightly, and Ryuu grimaced, shaking his head.
"I apologise for his actions, Sensei." He said quietly. "For the implied slight that you might not be able to protect me, and the inconvenience his messenger has caused. Mitsuki and I will expect to forfeit our Zanjutsu grades as a result of this incident."
Mitsuki nodded her head, her face pale and her eyes anxious, and Genryuusai pursed his lips.
"No. This was not your fault any more than it was mine." He said evenly. "You cannot return to your exam, of course – but I will not cast off your grades simply on the grounds of one overprotective Kuchiki lord. I will set you each an essay title instead – you may come to me for it before breakfast tomorrow, and may have the week to complete it. I will grade the pair of you on that, and you will not lose your marks."
"Thank you, sir." Mitsuki looked faintly relieved, though Ryuu knew her thoughts were still much on the missing Shirogane. "I had hoped…we'd escaped from home at last. But it seems…we haven't."
"Have either one of you heard from Shirogane in the few days since you came back?" Genryuusai asked, and both shook their heads.
"When we left, he had no plans to abscond the manor." Ryuu said heavily. "And he didn't believe himself in particular danger. But…Sensei…there are many things at work at home that none of us fully know how to interpret. What I am sure of, though, is that Shirogane-senpai poses neither Mitsuki nor I any particular threat. He and my father have clashed badly since my cousin's death, but that is all it is. A feud over ambition and bloodline – but…Shirogane-senpai does not mean me harm."
"I agree with Ryuu." Mitsuki nodded her head fervently. "I can read Senpai's state of mind more easily than some people can, especially since I used my healing powers to save him. He's still suffering badly from the shock and grief of Ribari-sama's death and it's made him impatient – perhaps incautious – in the things he sometimes says and does. But plot against Ryuu? I don't believe him capable of that. Seiren-dono has the wrong idea."
"Do you think Shirogane will come here?" Genryuusai's eyes were slits, and Ryuu shrugged helplessly.
"Not if he had any sense." He said acerbically. "Since everyone will be watching the border of Seventh like a hawk for him to try to cross. But it will be difficult for him to lie low in Sixth."
"He might go to Fourth." Mitsuki suggested. "Because Meroka-senpai lives there now, since her marriage. She and Shirogane-senpai were close as children."
"But Meroka-senpai's father is Futsuki-dono, who is right at the heart of Guren-sama's court." Ryuu reminded her. "So I don't think that would be a place for him to go, either."
"This is no concern of mine, I realise." Genryuusai said softly. "But you are both my students, and Shirogane was one in previous years. I do not wish to see any of you come to harm. If you say Shirogane is not guilty of a crime, I am inclined to believe you. But listen, Ryuu. Listen, Mitsuki. Your family are very proud and you must be very cautious in how you react to this latest drama. If Shirogane comes here, it would be a bad thing indeed for him to be connected to either one of you. Do you understand? You must not let your compassion or sympathy make you act recklessly."
"We understand, Sensei," Ryuu said gravely. "Again, we're sorry for causing so much trouble."
"You both are not trouble at all." Genryuusai assured him. "On the contrary, there is far more trouble for you both to face than for me. I am simply an old school teacher. I do not have a Clan to subdue or to lead."
He gestured to the door.
"You may go. You can't return to your exam, of course, but a few minutes to walk in the grounds may help calm your spirits. The weather is pleasant today – summer is on its way."
The two students bowed their heads, withdrawing from the study and closing the door behind them. Neither one of them spoke to begin with, as if by some mutual consent they had both agreed not to until they had reached the security of the Senior study. Though Genryuusai had encouraged them to go outside, with everyone else in an exam, the study would be empty, and as Mitsuki sank down by the window, Ryuu leant up against the door, taking a deep breath into his lungs.
"He's an idiot."
It was Mitsuki who broke the silence, and Ryuu could see the apprehension on her features.
"Acting recklessly, fighting with Seiren-dono's men…fleeing into the night. Even Guren-sama can't ignore that. If Senpai is caught he's in real trouble. He's an idiot. He'll get himself killed."
"Father would not mind if that happened." Ryuu said darkly. "I'm sure there's a manhunt the size of the night sky going on in District Six at the moment."
"From the message, Seiren-dono really does seem to believe that Shirogane-senpai did something he shouldn't." Mitsuki buried her head in her hands. "That he's plotting against you, too."
"Mm. I know. But Father is fixated with my future at the moment, so probably isn't seeing things straight." Ryuu responded. "Providing his motives are clean and innocent, and not based on something more sinister."
"Ryuu, I don't think Seiren-dono is any more guilty in Ribari-sama's death than I do Senpai."
"I know. And in some ways it makes no sense to me either for him to be involved. But there are nagging things that…mean I can't separate it completely in my mind." Ryuu groaned. "I was so glad to be back here, Mitsuki. Away from all of that at least for a while. But here it is again. Dragging us back."
"We will never escape that, will we?" Mitsuki murmured, her gaze suddenly clouding. "Being Kuchiki. No matter what we do…where we go. We can't ever escape it."
There was a note of wistfulness in her voice, and Ryuu sighed.
"No, but we can overcome it and not let it destroy us." He said pragmatically. "I am resolved, Mitsuki, and so must you be. Not to be broken by Kuchiki politics."
"Do you think he'll manage to escape?" Mitsuki twisted her fingers together, and Ryuu shrugged.
"Whatever I said to Sensei, I think it more than likely he will come here. And I don't suppose Genryuusai-sensei was at all fooled by my saying otherwise." He owned. "But if he does come to this District, Mitsuki – what Sensei said is right."
"Sensei didn't tell us not to help him. Or to report it, if we spoke with him." Mitsuki's eyes narrowed. "Did you notice that? He didn't say that at all. In fact, it was like the opposite was true. That if we did see him…speak to him…we were not to report it. We were to keep it a secret…and help him without drawing attention to it?"
"I heard it that way, too." Relief flickered across Ryuu's features. "Very well. If that's what Sensei wants from us, we should be good Senior students and obey."
"It would be difficult for Genryuusai-sensei to go openly against Guren-sama." Mitsuki observed pensively. "Even given who Sensei is, it would be hard in a matter like this. But he said he didn't want any of us to come to harm. So I think…he hopes that somehow we'll be able to help Senpai. If he comes here. And if he does…then…we must, Ryuu. Somehow. Until we can find a way to clear his name."
"We're jumping the gun, though." Ryuu pointed out. "He isn't here. He may not even manage to escape District Six. I will do what I can if he is captured – as heir presumptive, I will see what I can do to clear his name. But the only way to really resolve it is to find out who really did kill Ribari-sama. And why and how they're still targeting our family now. Because they must be. If you believe Father innocent, and we both believe Senpai is, where has the suspicion come from? What evidence did that messenger mean?"
"Someone manipulating from the shadows." Mitsuki shivered. "Someone who knows far too much and is always one step ahead. I have a bad feeling about this."
"I also." Ryuu nodded. "I would sooner be sitting that exam, Mitsuki, even if all I wrote was complete nonsense."
"What will we tell the others?"
"The truth, with emphasis on the fact we're not to get involved." Ryuu said firmly. "Especially Ukitake. For him in particular…Mitsuki, no matter how fond of him you are or how comforting talking to him is – we must not do anything that might jeopardise him or his family in all of this."
"I've already resolved not to talk to him about more than I must." Mitsuki looked indignant. "Give me some credit for that at least. I wouldn't do anything to hurt Juushirou, and you should know that!"
"I do." Ryuu managed a faint smile. "And I'm not trying to make you cross with me. I understand you and Shikibu already exchanged blows – I don't wish to be next."
"Oh. Naoko." Mitsuki pulled a graphic face. "Well, that wasn't just about Juushirou. I mean, part of it was. But the other part…was about other things."
She shrugged her shoulders.
"Ironically, Naoko thinks I should be marrying Shirogane-senpai." She added. "That it would solve my problems of Clan inclusion and give me a safe option – safer than Juushirou, you understand – for a life partner. Now Shirogane-senpai is apparently a traitor to the Clan, I wonder if she'd change her mind."
"Shikibu suggested that?" Ryuu was startled, then, "I suppose I can see why she would. It is not an unwise suggestion, if taken coldly and rationally."
"I'm not cold or rational about things like feelings, or my future." Mitsuki admitted. "And I can't see it that way. Besides, it's all academic now, isn't it? Senpai's in trouble, so it's far from a safe option."
"But you still intend to help him?"
"If I can." Mitsuki nodded. "But I don't want to discuss that with Juushirou, either. He might get the wrong idea, especially if Naoko started saying silly things – and she could, because she pokes her nose in like that. Or worse, being that Shirogane-senpai was Juushirou's shishou, he might decide he's honour bound to help."
She smiled.
"I'm only in love with Juushirou. But I care what happens to Senpai." She said simply. "And my instincts are always to help. So I'll help."
"I'd like to be able to decide so easily on what I should do." Ryuu confessed. "But my position is somewhat more complicated."
"The others will be back soon, so we should drop this topic." Mitsuki suggested. "And try, if we can, to forget what's going on at home. Senpai kept saying he was capable of protecting himself – and he does have a zanpakutou that's of a good level of power. If he can, I know he'll fight hard to get to us here, Ryuu. We're the only allies he has he can count on – I'm sure he knows that, no matter how solitary he likes to be. I'm certain he's going to come here – I believe in his power to manage it, and that when he does, we'll know more about what's at stake."