Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach; it belongs entirely to Tite Kubo. Mine is only fanfiction, my preference, and tribute to non-canon couples.

Author's Notes: Ohayou, Mina-san! New chapter up and sorry for the delay.

Many thanks to - Tuvstarr's lost heart - Glad you enjoyed the battle scene, truly they are not my specialty; darklover - thanks for continuing to read, still aiming to keep Hisagi in character, but also adding a little flair to him. Shisoukengo - Thank you, thank you for the awesome detailed review. You are such an Unohana lover, sorry I'll give her more time next chapter. A big thanks to my guest reviewer; here is your update.

As always and without further adieu, please, read, review and hopefully enjoy.


Chapter 6: Familiar Feelings

The persistent thumping grew louder, as the darkness began to dissipate. Hisagi clawed his way back to cognition and opened his eyes to a sunless sky that signaled it was early evening. His body swayed from side to side, the movement sending sharp, shooting pains up the shinigami's spine and he realized he was being carried. Without warning, the left, lower side of his body dipped to one side and, after what seemed like a struggle, it was lifted and realigned with his right. However, the jerking motion caused the pain to intensify and the 9th division lieutenant bit his lip to stifle a moan.

"Hanataro…" Hisagi heard Isane's voice somewhere above his head, "Be careful," she reprimanded the young medic.

"Sorry," the boy responded, out-of-breath. "For a skinny guy, he's kinda heavy."

"No kidding," Eiji's voice piped in, sounding as winded as Hanataro.

Another jolt sent pain shooting between Hisagi's shoulder blades and up the back of his neck and he wondered if his transporters could be a bit more gentle. The shinigami attempted to lift a hand to his throbbing head but found he couldn't because of the restraints holding him down. "What the hell…," he moaned in a raspy voice.

"Hisagi-san!" he heard Isane gasp. "Kira-san! Hisagi's awake... he's conscious."

"It's about time," the 3rd division lieutenant answered absently, his voice coming from the opposite side of Isane's. "Just a little further, Kotetsu-san, and you can exam him properly," Kira replied.

It hurt like hell, but Hisagi managed to turn his head in the direction of the voice and saw Izuru's blond head as he, Isane, Eiji, and Hanataro carried him on a portable stretcher. Hisagi tried to turn his head in the other direction to catch a glimpse of Isane, but the attempt only aggravated the pain at his mid-back that was slowly radiating into his lower spine and both legs. With a grunt, he flopped back, clamping his lips together to stifle another groan as the stretcher tilted again.

"Lie still, Hisagi-san," he heard Isane scold. "Hanataro and Eiji are having a hard enough time carrying you."

Biting back a smart-aleck retort, Hisagi ground his teeth irritated. It didn't take a genius to figure out what was happening. After being slammed by the Octopus-type Adjucha, their aid had arrived. Lt. Izuru Kira, because of his previous medical background with the 4th division, was assisting Isane with the injured. The 11th division, 3rd seat, Ikkaku Madarame, was engaging the enemy (Hisagi recognized that battle cry anywhere), and if he was there, it was assured that the 5th seat, Yumichika Ayasegawa, was fighting alongside him.

Finally, the jostling stopped, and Hisagi was lowered to the ground. A second later Isane's face hovered above him, blocking his view of the sky. "How are you feeling?" she asked, her grey eyes concerned.

"Not sure," Hisagi answered horsley, his mouth was dry, and his tongue felt swollen. As if on cue, Hanataro appeared, handed him a water bottle with a built-in straw, encouraging him to drink. The shinigami readily accepted, taking small sips as instructed by the young medic. "My legs are tingling," Hisagi murmured after quenching his thirst.

"A ruptured vertebrae?" Kira asked Isane, as he kneeled next to the patient on the opposite side of the stretcher.

"I hope not," she answered while removing the restraints; Hisagi had already spent too much time in the medical ward. "Ume, please assist me," Isane inquired of the girl that Kira had somehow managed to calm down after his arrival.

"The lieutenant really got slammed," Eiji piped in. "I was so sure his head was busted."

"Spoken like a true clinician," Isane muttered under her breath, at her subordinate lacking medical jargon.

"A head injury might have been better," Kira said with a straight face. "Hisagi's got a thick skull; probably would have caused less damage." That comment earned him a weak middle finger from the patient and an affirmative nod from Hanataro.

"That's harsh, vice-captain Kira," Eiji said and frowned at the blonde shinigami.

"The lieutenants' joking," Isane said, as her hands roamed over Hisagi's body. Eiji was fresh out of the academy and unfamiliar with the gloomy disposition and dry humor of the 3rd division lieutenant, nor did the boy realize Hisagi and Kira were friends.

"Uuuurah!" Ikkaku's battle-cry echoed across the plains, and everyone turned immediately to the sound.

Kira stood up and looked over at their comrades fighting with the Adjucha. Both Ikkaku and Yumichika were attempting to muscle their way between the creature's tentacles to locate the main body but were knocked back with each attempt. "I'd better go help," Kira stated with all the enthusiasm of one about to take a nap. "Guess you'll have to sit this one out, Hisagi."

"Guess so," the injured shinigami muttered, attempting to sit up, as Kira turned and hurried toward the battle.

"Oh, no you don't," Isane held Hisagi in place, her hands tender, yet firm as they pressed into his shoulders. "Please, stop moving around. I have yet to determine the extent of your injury; it's likely I won't get an accurate diagnosis until we get back to the Seireitei."

"We don't have a lot of time, Kotetsu-san," Hisagi informed her. "According to Captain Unohana, the temperature here drops to dangerous levels at nightfall."

"I know," Isane sighed and looked up at a sky rapidly approaching dusk. "We'll be in big trouble once the sun sets." Leaning forward, Isane reached over to peel back Hisagi's keso to start her examination. "Ume," she called out to the young student nurse, "...draw up an analgesic, please?"

"Hai," Ume nodded and dove into her backpack to withdraw a vial and syringe. "How many cc's?" she asked, glancing over at Hisagi to gauge his height and weight. The young girl got an eyeful of a muscular chest and a rock hard six-pack. "Pro… probably te… ten cc's for vice-captain Hisagi," she stuttered, her face turning red.

Isane smiled inwardly, as she came up on her knees and leaned over Hisagi, remembering the first time she had seen him nearly naked. Although an adult woman at the time, Isane's reaction was no more mature the teenage nurse. It was the same now as it was then; her cheeks grew warm at the memory, and her fingers trembled slightly over his bruised flesh.

"Only three cc's," Isane corrected Ume's calculation of the dosage. "The painkiller is for Masaru, not the lieutenant. You're a big boy, right Hisagi-san," she teased, looking down on him. "You can handle a little pain, hmm?"

Ume sighed and snuck another peek at Hisagi from beneath her lashes before turning away and moving over to her teammate. Masaru had been exceptionally quiet since their mad dash across the plains on the lieutenants back, and yet he had suffered in silence. Which, to Ume, was more admirable than what she had done. Lifting the filled syringe, the young nurse tapped the side of the vial and then pressed the plunger to release air before injecting the painkiller.

Hisagi waited until Ume had moved away, before turning narrowed eyes on Isane. "Do you talk to all your male patient's that way?" he asked.

"What way?" Isane responded puzzled, her grey eyes wide and innocent.

"Tch, never mind," the shinigami murmured and turned his face away to avoid her gaze. She was nearly lying on top of him, her subtle floral scent filling his nostrils and her hands were touching everywhere; albeit for clinical purposes, the woman was too close for comfort. Not to mention, her words just now were provocative as hell, at least to him, and she wasn't even aware.

"Sorry," Isane apologized, realizing what was bothering him. She pushed away and settled back on her knees. "Because of me, you're injured again, and I know how frustrating that is for you. I only wanted to lift your spirits a little."

She had lifted something alright, Hisagi thought gruffly, but it wasn't his spirit. Thankfully, Isane had moved away before she discovered how her closeness affected him. What was the matter with him? Why the hell was he acting like a pubescent teen with raging hormones? Isane mentioned frustration; damn straight he was. He was immobile; an injured invalid unable to assist his comrades, but that wasn't all. Hisagi wanted time with Isane - time alone, to delve into these awakened feelings. Having known her since her brief stint at the academy, he wondered what could have triggered this sudden attraction between them. The shinigami wanted answers, which wouldn't be possible until this mission was over.

"It's been one injury after the other," Hisagi murmured. "From the fight with the Arrancar to that damned beast, Ayon, and then finally Captai… I mean, Tosen. I've been healed less than a month only to end up back in a sick bed with you taking care of me."

Isane reared back as if he'd slapped her and turned to him in shock. Hisagi preferred activity and hated idleness; whether it was a mission or his duties as the acting 'chief editor' at the Seireitei Communications. Knowing this - knowing him, Isane had done everything possible to expedite his recovery, and now, he was right back where he was a few weeks ago. Although she understood Hisagi's frustration, he did not have to phrase his displeasure in a way that made her feel incompetent.

He heard her sigh, then felt her move. Hisagi watched Isane stand and back away, only then did his outburst echo in his own ears and he realized how it may have sounded. "Isane... wait," Hisagi pleaded; his hand reached out to her, even though it caused him considerable pain. "I didn't mean..."

"I advise you cease moving, Hisagi-san," Isane cut him off in an anesthetized voice. "We don't want to exacerbate your injuries. Ume..." the medic began issuing orders, "... administer Lt. Hisagi a painkiller if he needs it; Eiji... if he won't keep still, restrain him again and Hanataro... please, come with me." Without a backward glance, Isane headed in the direction of the fight commencing out on the plain.

Hisagi grimaced, as he watched her leave and berated himself. Dammit, how could he be so insensitive to a woman who gave so much? No one had taken better care of him than Isane Kotetsu, not even Captain Unohana. Time and again, she had healed him with gentle hands and a soothing voice. Although shy and a bit clumsy outside of the medical ward, as a healer Isane was the most skilled in her division. Her assessments were thorough and patient's felt comfortable with her. Isane was an excellent medic and caring person who deserved better than his ungrateful outburst.

Hanataro stepped forward but stopped to look down at Hisagi. The young medics blue gaze shifted from the 9th division lieutenant's wretched expression to the dejected slump in Isane's shoulders. Shaking his head, the boy sighed and then followed behind his superior.

"That wasn't cool," Eiji finally said, addressing Hisagi. "I think you may have hurt Lt. Kotetsu's feelings."

XXXXX

On the grounds of the 2nd division barracks, enclosed in a soundproof dojo, Lt. Marechiyo Omaeda conferred with the Patrol Corps in the Onmitsukido. The lieutenant stood at the front, with his hands clasped behind his back, stretching the fabric of his shinigami robes over his rotund girth. Each member was swathed in black, from head to toe with their head and faces covered; only the eyes were visible from the slits in the cloth. The members of the patrol corps conducted themselves as one unit, with no individuality in neither their manner, code or dress.

"Now listen up," Omaeda's voice boomed through the dojo; he lifted the list obtained from Captain Soi-Fong and held it up for the group to see. "The eight names on this list are suspected of rebelling against Soul Society." The vice-captain paused and looked out at the thirty-two stealth agents standing before him. "However, we of the Onmitsukido Corps will not allow that to happen."

"A group of four will be assigned to each individual on this list," Omaeda continued, as he lowered his arm, placed his hands behind his back and began pacing back and forth. "Our orders are to just watch them for now - just watch," he emphasized, staring out arrogantly at his subordinates. "The moment something seems suspicious in their activities or movements, you are to report to me immediately. Two to report, and the other two will maintain watch over the subjects. Whatever the reason, you are not to engage; our job is only surveillance. Do I make myself clear?"

"Hai, Omaeda-fukutaichou!" The group hailed in unison.

Omaeda grunted and nodded, feeling full of himself. He turned, as one of the members approached holding a clay pot with smoking embers. Pulling the list from behind his back, the lieutenant began to tear the sheet into small shreds and then dumped them into the pot, erasing the paper trail.

"Now," Omaeda began and turned back to his subordinates. Closing his eyes, he swept his arm out in a grand gesture. "You are dismissed!" he announced, reveling in his position. As he opened his eyes, he noticed the room had not emptied. The patrol corps stood still, their eyes wide and bugging through the slits in their mask. It wasn't until an agent on the front row pointed to him that Omaeda felt the heat on his arm.

"Itai, itai!" Omaeda yelled and began fanning the flames on the sleeve of his shinigami robe. The same arm that had swept the room in a dignified manner in his pompous theatrics had also covered the clay pot and caught fire. "Dismissed!" the lieutenant yelled and then fell to the floor and began rolling to douse the burning flames. "I-said-dismissed!"

XXXXX

Hanataro watched Isane; she was hurt but was not about to show it. His vice-captain was a gentle soul; she was shy, a bit timid, had a height complex, however, in the medical and surgical wards, or anywhere her skills were needed, she shed those inhibitions to heal, nurture and mend those in her care.

Just now, Lt. Hisagi's words were much too harsh and as a result, Lt. Kotetsu ran. It was her nature; she hated confrontation more than anything and chose to hide until situations either calmed down or resolved themselves. She may get mad, but somehow, she would ultimately blame herself, whether she was at fault or not. Isane neither challenged Hisagi's claim nor did she demand he explain. Instead, she shouldered her fellow vice-captains personal frustrations, making them her own.

He may be young, but Hanataro had noticed the two lieutenants were attracted to each other. Even though it seemed a bit sudden, he didn't know why neither would make the first move. In the young medics opinion, both were acting pretty childish.

Isane's shoulders were hunched with her hands clasped tight together in front of her robes, wringing them together. The young medic figured that habit helped calm her. With eyes glued to the battle taking place before them, Isane was probably using it as an escape from Lt. Hisagi's colloquy. It never took her long to recover, thought Hanataro; therefore, he stood silently by her side.

They weren't getting anywhere, Isane surmised, watching Izuru, Madarame, and Ayasegawa battle the Adjucha. The main body of the beast was still underground, yet its tentacles seemed to have increased in size and numbers. At this rate, the three wouldn't be able to end the fight before the sun set and the temperature dropped in this section of the Rukongai.

Isane gasped, as a tentacle whipped out and targeted Ikkaku who was planning a frontal attack. The shinigami came barreling through the debris of the demolished shed, taking the appendage head on. On impact, dust flew creating a screen of the collision. Shielding her eyes, Isane tried to peer through the airborne particles to see if Ikkaku was okay.

The naginata-type weapon didn't bend under the weight of the Adjucha's tentacle nor did Ikkaku's knees, as both wielder and zanpakuto held firm under the pressure of the overhead strike. His bald head gleamed with sweat, and his upper arm muscles bulged straining against the Adjucha's power. "Hehe... is that all you got?" Ikkaku leered. Releasing one hand from his weapon, he drew back his arm and delivered a bone-crushing punch to the side of the tentacle, slamming it to the ground. "Uuuurah!" he roared and with a maniacal laugh dived right into the next attack.

"Lt. Madarame is crazy fearless," Hanataro murmured, as he stood next to Isane, watching Ikkaku's frenzied, brawl.

"More crazy than fearless," Isane stated in a pragmatic tone. "You know he's afraid of hypodermic needles, right?" she found it necessary to add.

"I'll remember that," Hanataro said, making a mental note and recalled the constant teasing and incivility their division received from Ikkaku and the other 11th division members.

"If only he would use his true power," thought Isane.

Only a few individuals knew that Lt. Madarame had already achieved Bankai. As the 2nd chief medic, Isane was aware of the capabilities of every shinigami who had graced the halls of the medical ward; however, the laws of patient confidentiality and the medical ethics code forbade her to reveal that information. Not even Captain-Commander Yamamoto was privy to Ikkaku's secret.

From her peripheral vision, Isane caught sight of Yumichika's body hurtling to the ground. The shinigami hit the ground hard, bounced once and then rolled. She watched him pick himself up, needlessly dust himself off, flip his hair back before diving back into battle.

The 11th division 5th seat was another shinigami who hid his real power. Unlike, Madarame, Yumichika had yet to achieve Bankai; however, the full power of his Shikai could end this battle right here and now, if he were willing to reveal it. The narcissistic shinigami's zanpakuto was very similar to Isane's. Both transformed into multiple blades and both, once activated, worked nearly the same way. However, the 4th division vice-captain was not as adept at using hers as her 5th seat fellow.

"Hadou, Go ju hachi - Tenran!"

Isane and Hanataro turned, as the gusts of wind from Izuru Kira's kido spell blew back the group of tentacles trying to surround him. The 3rd division vice-captain was one of the most proficient fighters, but his methodical approach to battle usually resulted in lengthy fights. For Kira to show resolution and get serious, something had to trigger a response. On her return from Hueco Mundo after the Karakura Town battle, Isane had been informed that Kira had defeated, Abirama Redder, after the Espada had taunted him about his former captain, Gin Ichimaru's abandonment.

Unfortunately, they did not have the luxury of two hawks hiding their talons or waiting for a sleeping dragon to awaken. The sky was darkening, and Isane could feel the temperature dropping. If this fight went on any longer, even if they did defeat the Adjucha, their biggest problem was going to be exposure to extreme cold and possibly hypothermia.

"Have you noticed, Lt. Kotetsu..." Hanataro's voice broke through her musings. "... that the tentacles revive almost instantly if they're knocked down, but take longer if they're cut. See that?" he pointed to the feeler Hisagi had sliced off earlier. The tentacle was twitching on the ground as new growth pulsed from its stub.

Isane frowned, as she gazed at the severed lump of flesh. The boy was right, each time a tentacle was impaired, it was only temporary. And yet, even an appendage that was wholly severed could reanimate itself and join the others, that was the reason the numbers kept increasing. If only there were a way to...

"Hanataro-kun!" Isane whirled around with a big smile, a contrast to a moment before. She had just experienced an epiphany and leaned down to tousle Hanataro's dark hair. "Have I mentioned that you're a genius?"

"Huh... what?" The boy was bewildered by the lieutenant's sudden change but preened under her hand. His angelic vice-captain had used 'kun' when addressing him, and he lowered his head, feeling a warmth spreading into his cheeks.

"You may have just saved everyone," Isane murmured, removing her hand from his hair. "If we can manage to slice through every one of those feelers nearly at the same time, it will give us the advantage."

"That - that would make sense," the boy stuttered, "... bu... but, how do we do that?"

Isane's eyes twinkled; she laid a hand on Hanataro's shoulder and said softly, "Kazeshini."

"Kazeshini?" the boy questioned, and then it made sense. "I... I could see that, but Lt. Hisagi is injured," Hanataro said and frowned. "The only way we could...," the boy paused again and then blurted out, "No," realizing where his vice-captain was going with this.

"Yes," Isane said, as she let go of Hanataro and turned, heading back to where Hisagi lay. "It's the only way," she threw over her shoulder, running off.

Hanataro sighed, feeling the first change in temperature. Although he knew her plan was a good one, the young medic was concerned about his vice-captain. The few times Lt. Kotetsu had used her Shikai, he recalled she was unconscious for several days. However, if she was willing to take the risk, he would without a doubt support her. Hunching his shoulders against the impending cold, the boy raced after her.

XXXXX

"Is everything all right, Lt. Kotetsu?" Masaru asked in alarm as he looked up to see his vice-captain approaching at a hurried pace.

Hisagi, hearing footsteps, managed to partially turn his head in that direction. From the angle he laid, he was only able to see the bottom of Isane's shinigami robe, which was tattered and torn at the bottom and the white tabi socks matted with dirt from the terrain.

"We're running out of time," Isane responded, her eyes swept each member of her team. Eiji, Ume, and Masaru, who was revived from the injection, stood and moved toward their vice-captain. "There's no time to explain," she informed them, as Hanataro joined them. "Our number one priority right now is getting Lt. Hisagi healed and back out on the battlefront."

The three medics, looked at each other and then back at Isane, wondering how they were going to pull that off. Hisagi, who lay there listening, was also baffled.

Sliding her right arm from folds of her shinigami robe, Isane bared a shoulder and revealing a 'sarashi' (breast bind) wrapped around her upper torso. "This may seem a little strange, but I need you to trust me, Hisagi-san," Isane whispered. "We need Kazeshini... we need him to reap," she added, knowing how the 9th division vice-captain felt about his zanpakuto. "This is the best I can do right now; I leave the rest to you."

"Isane, what are..." Hisagi began, staring up at her wide-eyed, but his question was cut off by Isane's release command.

"Itegumo!"

Unsheathing her zanpakuto, Isane moved to stand over Hisagi, raising the gleaming blade overhead. The sword transformed; it reduced the length of a katana to a wakizashi and divided into three sections. Suddenly, frost began emitting from the blade before it dissolved and formed an icy mist, which circulated around Isane's head. The woman lowered the hand holding the hilt of her Shikai and swung it in the direction her shinigami comrades were fighting.

"Hashire!"

The icy mist 'ran,' obeying its master's command. As it left his line of vision, Hisagi turned back to Isane. His fellow vice-captain still stood over him with her eyes closed, concentrating. He noticed her arm trembled, probably from the effort of controlling her Shikai since it was apparent she hardly used it. Actually, Hisagi could not recall ever seeing her draw her zanpakuto.

Isane's breath was shallow, but Hisagi could see the pulse throbbing at the base of her throat. His eyes roamed across her bare shoulder to the sarashi and the swell of flesh spilling over the top of the binding, and he swallowed. Once again, his thoughts were drifting elsewhere, imaginings that had no place on this mission. Now was not to time to think of a silver-haired, statuesque beauty with braids dangling tantalizingly over creamy skin and he closed his eyes to blot out the visual. Instead, he decided to focus on how the woman planned to get him back on his feet.

XXXXX

"Damn!" Ikkaku spat, levitating in the air. He was frustrated that the more tentacles he took down, the more they multiplied. "These things breed like rabbits!"

"More slicing and less poking, Ikkaku," Yumichika tittered, appearing next to his comrade. He was also frustrated with how quickly the Adjucha could regenerate its limbs. "You could always... you know," the 5th seat motioned to Madarame's zanpakuto.

"Shaddup!"

"Fall back!" Kira's shout interrupted the two shinigami, as he materialized next to them. Both turned to him in surprise and noticed a freezing mist headed their way.

"What the hell is that?" Ikkaku snapped, moving forward to confront the new threat.

"Leave it," Kira shouted again. "That's Kotetsu's Shikai; whatever you do, don't intercept it and definitely don't touch it!" The 3rd squad vice-captain knew that if Isane was forced to use Itegumo, it must be an emergency. He remained still as the mist passed and felt the goosebumps crawl over his skin from the cold.

"That woman has a Shikai?" Madarame raised an eyebrow, but moved aside as the mist swept past. " Hah, what's it gonna do?"

"Just stay back and watch," Yumichika sounded serious for once, his breath formed a cloud as he exhaled. Although he had never witnessed the power of Isane's zanpakuto, he knew how it worked.

The icy particles floated toward the several tentacles grouped together, and the feelers immediately lashed out. The ice particles dispersed and then regrouped, spiraling around its target. As the shinigami looked on, the bound tentacles were encased in a thin sheet of light blue ice, which pulsated and started to glow; with each pulsation, the color turned from a sky blue to a brilliant sapphire. Next, the darkened ice dissipated and resumed its mist form. The tentacles that were captured turned black, withered and then fell over dead. The mist circulated once and then headed back in the direction from whence it came.

"Is that it?" Ikkaku sniffed. "Ahh... I shouldn't be surprised considering its the 4th division."

"Ikkaku..." Kira started.

"Aww... da widdle, mousy vice-captain took out a handful of the enemy for us," Madarame said in a condescending, whiny voice and then blurted out aggressively, "Thanks for nothin'!" With a sneer, he launched right back into battle.

Yumichika turned to Kira, his eyes questioning. The blonde smirked and then nodded the affirmative. The twinkle returned to the 5th seat's violet eyes; he turned, smoothed his dark hair, gave an excited, feminine shiver and then followed behind his comrade. Kira looked back at the small group huddled near the caves and had to applaud Isane taking drastic measures. Ikkaku's growl had Kira turning back to the business at hand. He reentered the fight knowing that shortly, Hisagi would be joining them.

XXXXX

"It's back!" Masaru gasped and pointed to the blue crystals racing toward the hilt their vice-captain held up high.

Hisagi's eyes popped open.

"It changed color," Ume said in awe.

"That's because it's filled with reiatsu," Hanataro said quietly, as he moved closer to Isane. "Lt. Kotetsu plans to infuse the energy into Lt. Hisagi to exhilarate healing his injuries."

"How can she..." Eiji began but was silenced, as Hanatarou pressed a finger to his lips.

"Just watch," the boy responded.

No one spoke or stirred, as the mist seemed to seep into the hilt of the zanpakuto. Isane's hand and bared arm began to turn blue, the same color as the mist, and a sudden cold enveloped everyone.

Isane was struggling, Hisagi could tell, but he waited. He knew nothing about 'Itegumo,' but it appeared that Hanataro was familiar with the zanpakuto and its ability; therefore, the shinigami decided to take the boy's advice and watch. If Isane was in some kind of trouble, he knew the boy would react immediately.

Suddenly, Isane dropped to her knees, straddling Hisagi, pinning his arms to his sides. Her eyes were glazed over, her grey orbs pupiless. The mist had reformed into three-pronged spikes, the tips dripping with blue frost. Isane's free hand covered Hisagi's chest, while the hand holding the zanpakuto flipped the blade from the upward position, facing down and in one swift motion, she plunged it into Hisagi's sternum.

His chest seemed to explode, and Hisagi's body flexed, reacting to the intense pain. He opened his mouth as if to cry out, but inhaled sharply and held his breath. Next came the extreme cold; Itegumo pumped its dark crystals into his body, freezing everything inside. Organs, the flow of blood; the word cryogenics popped into Hisagi's head before he experienced the worst case of brain freeze and overall numbness.

The four medics stood huddled together as the entire area suddenly felt like the inside of a freezer. Eiji's draw dropped, his mouth hanging wide open, shocked at what he was seeing. Masaru clutched his chest in a tight grip, watching horrified, feeling it was him instead of Lt. Hisagi. Ume made to scream at the brutality of the action, but Hanataro had anticipated her reaction and was quick to cover her mouth before she could make a sound.

"I know it looks bad," Hanataro whispered in Ume's ear, "But it'll be over soon." He felt her nod, before lowering his hand. He moved around the girl, who placed her own hands over her mouth, just in case she decided to scream again while Hanataro walked over and kneeled next to their vice-captain.

With the blue crystals fully ingested in Hisagi's body, Isane withdrew Itegumo and placed the blade beside her on the ground. Her right hand and arm had lost the blue tinge and resumed its natural color. In a trancelike state, the medic placed her other hand on his chest and shot a volt of energy into his body from her palms.

The sound was reminiscent of cracking nuts, thought Hisagi, as his brain started to thaw. Something was going on inside his body, but he didn't know what; he couldn't feel anything nor could he move. From the neck down, he was numb, yet he could sense movement internally. Finally, Hisagi was able to move his shoulders; he managed to lift his head just enough to see Isane over him. She sat on his stomach with her hands pressed to his chest; he was unable to see her face because her head was bent with her bangs shielding her face.

More crackling sounds vibrated in Hisagi's ears, more thawing and returning sensation in his limbs made him realize he was healing. The crackling sounds were his bones mending and as heat permeated he was finally able to move without feeling pain.

As the warmth reach his thighs, Hisagi was attempting to sit up when he saw Isane swoon. Her upper body swayed to one side, tilted back and then pitched forward. Using his core muscles, Hisagi sat up and caught her before she slumped over. Hanataro had also reached out to grab his vice-captain, but he touched her arm and immediately drew back.

"She's colder than a popsicle!" the young medic exclaimed, blowing on his fingers.

"Kotetsu... Kotetsu!" Hisagi shook her lightly, trying to rouse his fellow vice-captain. Although Isane's eyes were open, she lay unconscious in his arms. He felt the coldness of her body but somehow was able to tolerate it. "Kotetsu!"

"Leave her to me, Lt. Hisagi," Hanataro said softly. "Lt. Kotetsu used her Shikai to heal you," the boy said and proceeded to inform of Isane's plan. "Only Kazeshini's ability can get rid of those annoying tentacles and allow Madarame and the others time to find the Adjucha's main body."

Finally able to fully move, Hisagi carefully laid Isane on the portable stretcher he had just occupied and stood, looking down on her. As he turned away, the 9th division vice-captain flexed his shoulders, bent from the waist to stretch his muscles and then reached for his zanpakuto. "Ume, Masaru...," Hisagi addressed the young medics, "...pack up all the materials and supplies. Eiji... protect the perimeter and Hanataro... take care of Kotetsu. Be ready to move out; after we defeat this monster, we can all go home."

XXXXX

Isane floated between a state of consciousness and the unconscious. She remembered activating Itegumo, as well as the cold, numbing sensation associated with its abilities. After absorbing the reiatsu Itegumo drained from the tentacles, Isane's memory was a bit vague. It was the effects of the freezing and a clear indication she had yet to master her Shikai.

In her conscious mind, Isane could hear the voices of her team; she heard Hisagi calling out to her. Subconsciously, she was elsewhere; an endless sky with white clouds. It was cold - freezing, and Isane shivered.

"Are you not used to me yet?" an impudent voice asked.

Isane jerked up, her head swiveling around trying to locate the voice. "Who... who's that?" she asked.

"Who do you think, silly?"

"Itegumo?" Isane whispered.

"Itegumo-chan... but I'm pleased you got on the first try," the zanpakuto answered.

A vision appeared before Isane, floating above. A young youth levitated on a small cloud; azure colored chin-length hair blew back from an oval-shaped, angelic face and large cornflower blue eyes, stared back unabashedly with a huge grin plastered to a face with a light sprinkle of freckles across an aquiline nose.

"Are you cold?" Itegumo inquired, watching Isane rubbing her hands together.

"Ah... yes, it is quite cold here; wherever here is," Isane said.

"Oh." The smile disappeared. "That's too bad," Itegumo said, as her body began to fade away. "Maybe next time."

"Itegumo," Isane yelled after the fading image. "Itegumo-chan, wait!"

"Maybe next time," the human form of the zanpakuto whispered before it, the endless sky and clouds disappeared completely, and Isane was plunged into darkness.

XXXXX

Three days later...

The office of the Seireitei Communications was alive with activity. Computers hummed, the screens displaying various graphic images and the constant clicking sounds of writers fingers over keyboards reverberated in the busy room.

Sports writer, Mizuho Hayakawa, was debating with Shigeru Daido, the arts and culture critic, which was a daily occurrence. Mizuho's short brown bob swung around her face, as she shook her head in denial; her green eyes fierce in protest. "There's no way in hell your article on trimming bonsai will top my coverage of yesterday's baseball game. Are you off in the head?" she shouted, as she rose to her feet, a 5-foot 2-inch ball of indignation.

"Now, now," Shigeru said in a placating tone, waving a manicured hand for her to resume her seat. "There are more cultured shinigami in Soul Society than you guys who venture in from the Rukongai," he said smoothly, leaning back in his chair. Shigeru's appearance was contrasting to the articles he wrote. He was huge, with an athletic build but immaculately groomed; his black hair was slicked back with gel, and he sported a neatly trimmed goatee.

"Enough!" Hisagi snapped from his seat at the editor's desk, fed up with the bickering between the two journalists. "The best way to solve your argument is to quit yapping and start writing. Neither of you can win if your article never sees print," he informed them.

"Hai, fukutaichou!" Both writers answered in unison. The two glared at each other before resuming their seat and returning to their task.

With a sigh, Hisagi also returned to proofreading the society article written by Umiomi Ito from the 'style section. 'Umio,' as she was called by other staffers, was a tall svelte blond with blue eyes that missed nothing. If the woman didn't have standards, she would make an audacious gossip columnist with the information she could extract.

"How's it going?"

Hisagi swirled around in his chair to face the head of sales and marketing director, Ishinoue Sannen. The older man had approached in stealth mode, with two mugs of coffee in hand. In his younger days, Ishinoue had tried to get into the Onmitsukido Corps but had failed the exams. Apparently, the old guy's skills were still fresh, as Hisagi could never detect his presence until he spoke.

"Coffee, editor?" Ishinoue asked, holding out a mug to his chief.

"Thanks." Hisagi accepted and took a sip of the steaming brew.

"Lt. Kotetsu?"

"Not awake yet," the shinigami editor said abruptly.

"Oh," Ishinoue responded, watching his boss staring into his cup.

He had known Hisagi for a while, even before he replaced Tosen as the editor of Seireitei Communications. The young shinigami was responsible; always taking on extra projects and making himself available to those in need. Sometimes Ishinoue felt he was taken advantage of, especially when it came to the vice-captain of squad 11, Yachiru Kusajishi. The child shinigami was the president of the 'Women's Association' and had Hisagi at her beck and call.

Although Ishinoue knew that Hisagi could be hard on himself when missions went array; the lieutenant would normally harp on about his performance, or lack of, and what he could have done better to support his comrades, but this time he had barely said anything. From what the marketing director had deduced, Hisagi had returned from the Rukongai carrying an unconscious Lt. Kotetsu. After handing her over into Captain Unohana's care, he had stayed at the hospital all night, waiting to see if she would awaken. That was three night ago, and the 4th division lieutenant had yet to regain consciousness.

"Captain Unohana doesn't seem too worried," Ishinoue stated, before taking a sip from his own mug, hoping that would ease Hisagi's gloom.

"I know," he responded and forced a smile to his lips, looking up at his senior staff member. Ishinoue could have been Lt. Chojiro Sasakibe's younger brother, the two were so similar in looks; the same gray hair and tanned skin, but the director's eyes were dark and far too knowing. "It's just the waiting... you know I hate waiting," Hisagi said.

"That I do," Ishinoue laughed. "You going there again tonight?" he asked, meaning the medical ward.

"Yep," Hisagi said, leaning back in his chair. "Until she wakes up."

A silence stretched between the two men. Each was lost in their own thoughts; Ishinoue wondered about the reason behind the nightly vigils, and Hisagi remembered his conversation with Unohana the previous night...

"What's with Kotetsu's Shikai?"

"What do you mean, Lieutenant?" Captain Unohana asked without looking up from the files on her desk.

"Itegumo?" Hisagi inquired, inwardly irritated at the captain's evasiveness. It almost seemed deliberate.

Unohana's hands stilled suddenly, and she looked up from the growing pile on her desk to the vice-captain standing before her. "Oh my," she began, sounding amused. "Do I sense battle ki," she asked and stared directly at Hisagi. "Are you, perchance, upset with me, Lieutenant?"

"Ah... no!" The 9th division vice-captain backpedaled. "Uh... just worried is all..." he began, saw Unohana frown at his excuse and then started muttering, "... tha- that and its the first time I've seen Kotetsu use her Shikai. I was just wondering..."

"Wondering what?" Unohana asked in a silky smooth voice. "You've seen ice-based zanpakuto's before, Lieutenant."

"Yeah, but not ones that heal," Hisagi said and in his excitement, moved closer to the captain's desk. "How does Itegumo work, why hasn't Kotetsu mastered it and why hasn't she awakened; it's been 2 days now?"

"You're full of questions today, Lt. Hisagi," Unohana began, as she steepled her hands atop of the desk and then produced that eerie, serene smile that spelled trouble. "None of which I am obligated to answer," she informed him.

"Captain, please," Hisagi said and bowed low, appealing to the woman.

Several seconds ticked by, as Hisagi stared at his feet. He refused to rise until she said something - anything.

"Itegumo...," Unohana began and barely managed to keep a straight face as Hisagi's upper body jerk up in attention mode. "... is an ice-based zanpakuto that heals yet can also be used as a weapon in combat. It has many complexities so I won't bother going into the specifics."

"Why hasn't Isane mastered her sword's ability? I can only say she lacks the stamina to sustain it," Unohana stated. "Before yesterday, I would have said she was reluctant to use, but she did. To save her team, comrades and you, Lieutenant. Interesting," Unohana murmured, watching Hisagi through narrowed eyes.

"It's as you said," Hisagi said, not meeting her eyes. "Isa... uh, Kotetsu's quick thinking and use of her Shikai saved 'everyone,'" he emphasized.

"Mmhmm." Unohana continued to stare and then sighed. "Anyway, the reason my lieutenant is still unconscious is fatigue. You're worrying needlessly, Lt. Hisagi. Once Kotetsu's body has replenished its reiatsu, she will be fine."

"Thank you, Captain!" Hisagi said and bowed again. Unohana's words put him at ease, but not entirely, not until Isane regained consciousness and he could look into those gorgeous grey eyes again. "Unohana-taichou, has... has Lt. Kotetsu been like this before?" Hisagi had to ask.

"What? You mean this catatonic state?" the medic captain ask a question with a question and saw Hisagi nod. "The first time was right after the academy, during her Jinzen training. It happened again, her first year as a lieutenant and then now. Why do you ask?" Unohana raised an inquiring brow.

It was weird, but Hisagi couldn't help feeling he had seen Isane like this before. Back in the Rukongai, after she had fainted, he experienced a sense of deja vu. Except for the surroundings, it was almost as if that scene had played out before, but... that was impossible, he thought and answered, "No particular reason."

"I keep reminding you that Isane is also a lieutenant." Unohana's silky voice now had an edge to it. "Her skills are not yet on par with yours, Lt. Hisagi, but do not underestimate her power as they are now nor the future. Once Isane masters the full extent of Itegumo's abilities, she will be capable of healing a widespread area of injured in a matter of minutes."

The outer doors of the office opened and interrupted Hisagi's musings. The remaining journalist out on assignment had returned before the lunch hour, bringing more noise and disruptions.

"Ohayo, Fukutaichou!" the group greeted their editor in unison.

Akira Ichibanboshi - the business finance journalist, was the first to enter, going immediately to his desk. He was the office introvert, with a brilliant mind and methodical in his work. The next to arrive were the two journalists with the same name. Hiroyuki Yagamo (Hiro) was a young male, who dealt with public poll and opinion and Hiroyuki Ishishiro (Yuki) was a young woman into music and entertainment. The two parted ways at the door, with Yuki heading to Shunji Harigane's office and Hiro to Takehiko Higashiyama's office to discuss article design and layout.

"It's about to get busy," Ishinoue said, watching his colleagues scrambling about. "Save the daydreaming for later, editor; it's time to get back to work," the old guy barked, as he turned to head to his desk.

XXXXX

Isane awoke to cool air circulating, the smell of iodoform and the feel of crisp sheets at her back. Everything here was as familiar to her as breathing, and she knew immediately she was in the medical ward. With her headboard set at a 30-degree angle, Isane was able to look around the room without sitting up.

The room was empty, or so she thought; a solitary place, with a single bed, was typically set aside for the elite of Soul Society. Using one hand to grab the railing, Isane used it to help her sit up fully.

"What do you think you're doing?"

Startled, Isane turned to see 4th division, 7th seat seated in a chair close to the bed. "Hanataro!" she gasped, and made to swing her legs over the bed and onto the floor, but her subordinate stopped her.

"Back," the boy snapped, pushing her leg back onto the bed. "You know better," he scolded and smiled inwardly to see her settle back against the pillows. "The captain was here earlier; she's making rounds now, but she'll be back soon. Let's wait for her to check you out."

"Really, I feel fi..." Isane's words were cut off as Hanataro gave her the evil eye. "Okay, okay," she muttered, giving up. "How long have I been out?" she asked.

"Sixty two hours, nineteen minutes and forty-four seconds, to be accurate," Hanataro informed his vice-captain without looking at his watch.

"Are you for real?" Isane eyed the boy, before reaching over to smooth his bedhead. "Did you sleep here - in that chair, all night?"

"I worked the third shift last night," the boy said quietly. He didn't want her to know that he had stayed the night before also.

"Thank you," Isane said softly, somehow knowing the boy had never left her side.

"Everyone has come by to check on you - your sister, lieutenants Matsumoto, Kira, even Madarame-san and Yumichika-san," Hanataro told her. "Captain Ukitake dropped by and told me to let him know the moment you awakened. He seemed kinda busy right now and was sorry he couldn't come by often. Lt. Hisagi comes every evening; if it wasn't for his duties at Seireitei Communications, I think he would be here twenty-four, seven."

"Is that so," Isane said breathlessly, starting to blush. "Speaking of Hisagi-san, what happened after I passed out?" she asked, turning to Hanataro eagerly.

"All went according to plan," he informed his vice-captain. "Lt. Hisagi went out there wielding Kazeshini and mowed through those tentacles, clearing a path for the others to locate and destroy the Adjucha's main body. That thing was huge!" Hanataro got animated, as he stretched his arms wide. "I was able to get a glimpse of it before Lt. Haisagi rushed over to carry you back to the Seireitei. You really freaked him out, passing out the way you did."

"Hisagi?" Isane's eyes grew wide and asked, "Hisagi brought me back here?"

"Who else?" Hanataro asked innocently enough. "I surely couldn't carry you."

"What was that?" Isane's head jerked up. "You little..." she began, raising a hand to bop him on the head.

"Finally," Unohana's voice floated from the doorway. "You're awake."

"Taichou." Isane lowered he hand and bowed from the waist as her captain entered the room. "I'm feeling perfectly fine and ready to..."

"You must be feeling somewhat better to attack poor Hanataro here," Unohana interrupted. "You stopped her from getting up, didn't you?" the head medic inquired of Hanantaro who nodded with a sheepish grin.

"Traitor!" Isane mouthed at the young medic and returned his evil eye from earlier.

"Don't take it out on Hanantaro," Unohana read Isane's mind. "You know I always follow protocol; a patient is a patient, no matter who it is," the 4th division captain stated. "Now come, let's see if you're as perfectly fine as you say."

XXXXX

He was tired, had barely slept three hours knowing it was bad for his health, but Ukitake couldn't let it go. Each night he went over the information he obtained from the Onmitsukido, and although everything seemed routine, nothing out of the ordinary, the 13th division captain sensed he was missing something.

The reports on the suspects were strewn over the oak desk, separated by name and the nightly activity log. One thing Ukitake had learned in regards to reconnaissance was that most shinigami in the Sereitei led pretty boring lives (as if he were in a position to judge). Many could say the same of him, thought Ukitake, especially Soi Fong.

A tickling sensation started at the back of his throat, and the captain felt a cup of tea would quench his parched windpipe. As Ukitake opened his mouth to call out, he began coughing and heard rapid footfalls of both his 3rd seats rushing down the engawa.

"Taichou!" Sentaro Kotsubaki barked.

"Are- are you okay, sir?" Kiyone Kotetsu asked, sounding anxious.

The two had been asked to not enter his rooms without permission, especially now, with the ongoing investigations. Through the shoji, he could see their shadows right outside as they fidgeted about.

After the coughing spell passed, Ukitake cleared his throat and answered, "I'm fine you two, but a pot of tea would be most welcomed."

"Yes, sir!" Kiyone and Sentaro shouted in unison.

Ukitake watched, amused, as the two shadows tussled outside the room. Finally, Kiyone broke free and turned to run, but was tripped by Sentaro, who did a victory yell before running off.

"You are so dead," Ukitake heard Kiyone mutter, meaning Sentaro, as she picked herself up from the engawa. Rising to his feet, he walked over to the shoji and slid it open coming face to face with the petite blonde with large grey eyes, a shade darker than her sisters.

"Kotetsu-san."

"Hai, Taichou." Kiyone stood at attention. "Is there anything you need me to do, sir? If you don't mind my saying, you look like hell, sir. Would you like me to call Captain Unohana for treatment, sir?"

"No, I don't need anything, and although my looking like hell may be an appropriate sentiment, it is not appreciated," Ukitake said it with a smile. "And please do not bother the captain. I'm sure she's quite busy since she doesn't have your sister to depend on at this time. How is our dear Isane?"

"So far, she's the same," Kiyone sighed. "But Captain Unohana assures me my sister's fine and will awaken soon. I'm going over on my lunch break."

"Good," Ukitake said and stepped back into the room. "I'll visit Isane once she's back on her feet, which as Captain Unohana says, will be soon."

"If you don't mind me saying..." Kiyone began, which was usually the prelude to something she shouldn't say. "... I'm not sure what you're working on sir, but you must not let it affect your health. You've been keeping long hours and missing the required sleep. You cannot continue this way, sir."

Those eyes were sincere, and it warmed Ukitake. Although Kiyone Kotetsu was different from Isane in personality, the two had the same heart, reminding him why he was so fond of the two sisters. "Okay," I'll be sure to follow your advice," Kotetsu-san," Ukitake promised and bowed slightly before closing the shoji.

XXXXX

"Isane-chan!"

Rangiku Matsumoto hailed her fellow woman shinigami from the end of the hall. She had just run into Kira, who had informed her that Isane was awake and being sent home per the orders of Captain Unohana. As the red-head rounded the corner of the east wing, she noticed the taller woman standing at the discharge desk.

"Rangiku," Isane said and turned to greet her friend only to find herself engulfed in a boob hug.

"You scared the crap outta me," said the red-head, still squeezing tight and then, abruptly released Isane and swirled around, emitting a floral fragrance and bouncing boobs that had an orderly running a stretcher into a wall. "I'm running on loads of luck today," Rangiku said, arms akimbo wearing a smug look. "Not only did you wake up...," she pointed at Isane, "... but Momo has taken a turn for the better," she squealed.

"Really?!" Isane reached out and grabbed Rangiku's hands. "Oh my, but that's great news!"

"Captain Kurotsuchi thinks that by next week, we'll be able to move her to the medical barracks to complete her recovery," Rangiku informed Isane. "I must say, I have a new respect for that weirdo. I guess creepy guys aren't bad after all."

"Only you would say something like that," Isane laughed. "Captain Kurotsuchi may have his faults, but he's dependable when it counts."

"Whatever," Rangiku dismissed discussing the weird 11th division captain with a wave of her hand. "Hey, since you're all better now, let's celebrate both you and Momo's recovery. I'll come by your place tonight, and we'll have a few drinks."

"Oh... I don't..." Isane started to protest.

"Aww... come on," Rangiku said and then added enticingly, "I'm buying," she sang happily, sashaying her hips.

Rangiku buying her own liquor was somewhat of an honor, as the red-head very rarely, if ever, paid for her own drink. There was always a shinigami willing to pay, if for no other reason than to be seen in the company of the beautiful 10th division vice-captain. However, Isane knew that both Kira and Hisagi were Rangiku's comfort zone; she would rather drink with those two than any other in the Seireitei.

"Al-alright," Isane caved in. "But only one drink, you know I don't do well with spirits."

"No problem," Rangiku said and then leaned forward to whisper, "I can kill a half a keg on my own." She elbowed Isane playfully in the ribs and winked, before striding down the opposite corridor. "See you later tonight!"

Isane watched her go with a smile. Under normal circumstances, one would consider Rangiku a rival, but she had never felt that way. The woman was too friendly and had been a pillar of support during Isane's training and years as a lieutenant. Once the 'Shinigami Women's Association' had been formed, the two had grown even closer.

"Take it easy, Lt. Kotetsu," the discharge nurse said. "This place was a madhouse without you."

"I promise not to overindulge," Isane said, secretly preening at the praise. "I'd better go," she picked up her papers and turned to leave. Since Rangiku was coming over, Isane realized her place was less than presentable. She needed to go home and clean. So much for the 'rest' advised by Captain Unohana.

XXXXX

"Good night, editor!"

"Good night, fukutaichou!"

"Just leave already," thought Hisagi, as his head bobbed up and down, acknowledging the parting of each Communications staff. His recent hospitalization, therapy, and his last mission had put his editorial duties behind schedule. Although Umio's article barely needed tweaking and Akira's paper was, as usual, flawless, Hisagi found that Hiro was inflicting too much of his personal opinions into the public polls and Yuki and Shunji could not agree on the cover this month's music edition.

The editor-in-chief was so involved with his staff and their issues that he hadn't realized the time. By the time he closed the door on the last staff member, Hisagi would have less than thirty minutes to visit with Isane.

"No time to change," he murmured, looking down at the khaki fatigues and a black t-shirt. There were dust particles from the paper shredder all over him, but Hisagi brushed off what he could and grabbed his backpack. Locking the office door, he turned and started jogging toward the 4 division barracks.

"Shuhei! Is that you?" a voice called out, slowing him down. "We were just coming to get you."

Slowing down, Hisagi turned to the voice and then stopped altogether.

"Rangiku?" he peered through the dark and saw the redhead hurrying over to him, carry a white grocery bag. He assumed she was craving her favorite snack, dried persimmons, and then noticed Kira behind her carrying a case of beer.

"What are you two up to?" Hisagi asked; he shoved his hands in his pocket, watching them through narrowed eyes.

"Come with us?" Rangiku tittered. "We're having a double celebration."

"Sorry, I can't; not tonight, I've..."

"Oh," Rangiku moaned. "Why not?" she pouted. "Don't be a stick in the mud, Shuhei, come with us to celebrate Momo's recovery."

"Momo's in the clear?!" he gasped, grabbing Rangiku's shoulders and looked over to Kira for confirmation.

"That's right," she said proudly as if she was personally responsible for healing Lt. Hinomori.

"We heard from Captain Kurotsuchi today," Kira piped in, setting the case of beer on the ground. "It seems she'll be able to move to the medical barracks as soon as next week."

"How about that," Hisagi said in awe and shook his head. "Say what you want about Kurotsuchi, the guy really knows his stuff. I know how much you were worried, Rangiku," he said, patting her shoulder. Even though she was smiling, Hisagi thought she looked like she would start bawling at any moment.

"That's great and - yeah, of course, I'll join you guys to celebrate," Hisagi said, as he began backing away. "I just have to drop by the..."

A bell tolled, and the three shinigami realized the call for any available soul reaper to report to the designated area.

"Noooo," Rangiku moaned. "Not now, we were just about to have some fun."

"Duty calls," Kira said, gloomily which earned him snarl from Rangiku. "Hisagi," he turned to his friend and comrade. "You're out of uniform, so can you take that case of beer over to Kotetsu's place. Rangiku and I will go see what's brewing. It's probably a hollow."

"Kotetsu?" Hisagi asked. "You mean Isane?"

"Well yeah," Rangiku beamed again. "That's the other half of the celebration. Isane-chan is awake. Happened this morning; she was examined, cleared by Captain Unohana and told to go home and rest. She and I agreed to meet up at her place for drinks, although I neglected to tell her that you guys were coming with me. But, that should be okay with, Isane-chan," Rangiku grinned sheepishly, as she added, " After all, I heard you two saved each other today, plus the four of us have been friends since the academy."

The bell tolled a second time, and both Rangiku and Kira broke into a run.

"Just head over to Isane's, and take that with you," the redhead yelled over her shoulder, pointing to the white bag she had dropped suddenly. "Let her know we'll be along later."

Left staring after their departing figures, Hisagi couldn't believe his luck. Finally - finally, some quality time with Isane, he thought as he snatched up the bag and then bent down to hoist the case of beer on his shoulder before racing in the direction of the barracks of the 4th division.

XXXXX

Isane had just stepped out of the shower. She toweled dry, slipped on a flowered patterned flared short skirt that swirled around long, lithesome thighs and was searching for a blouse when a sharp rap at the door alerted her that Rangiku had arrived. In her haste, she quickly donned a satin bra and grabbed a hooded sweatshirt with a zippered front. It was an old hoodie, two sizes too large, but she wore it around the house because it was comfortable. A perfect item for a relaxing evening with a friend.

Bare feet slapped against woods floors, as Isane hurried down the hall while sliding slender arms into the sweatshirt and then zipping it up. As she reached the entrance, Isane swung the door wide with a beatific smile to welcome her guest.

"You're late, I was starting to worr.." Isane paused, and her eyes grew wide to see who was standing on her doorstep. "Hi- Hisagi-san?"

"Kotetsu," the shinigami returned the greeting and managed to bow carrying a case of beer on his shoulder. The woman was pale; she had yet to invite him in, holding the door in a tight grip and Hisagi thought to move quickly inside before came to her senses and slammed the door in his face. "Excuse me," he murmured; he had already removed his shoes and stepped over the threshold to squeeze by her in the narrow entryway to enter the living room. "Where should I put this?" he asked, turning around her humble abode.

"Eh?" Isane looked at him stupidly and then asked, "Uh - where is Rangiku?"

"Did you not hear the bell toll?"

"No, I was... uh," Isane ducked her head and murmured, pointing down her hall as if that explained anything.

"Ah... you were in the shower," Hisagi said. Brushing past her in the hall, he inhaled a bouquet of fresh soap and shampoo, which is how he made that deduction. The fact that he had guessed correctly had the woman bushing a becoming shade of pink. "Rangiku and Kira answered the call," Hisagi decided to change the subject. "Since I was out of uniform, they asked me to deliver the spirits," he explained and shifted the weight of the box on his shoulder. "Now - where can I put this?"

"Sorry," Isane whispered. The surprise of seeing Hisagi was starting to wear off and she decided it was best to just act normal. "Follow me," she said and moved past him to head to the kitchen area.

Following from behind, Hisagi was able to look around her home. A spacious living room, sparsely furnished was visible before entering a narrow hall that he assumed led the kitchen. In addition to the decor, Hisagi was also able to look his fill of the woman ahead. It was the first time he had seen her in regular clothes, and it was a revelation. The oversized hoodie with its long sleeves was surprisingly appealing. It rested an inch or two above her skirt, which was a floral, feminine pattern in intricate blues that swished against a set of insanely long shapely legs that would have had Hisagi pulling at his collar if his hands were free. His gaze lowered to her feet, which were slender with a high arch and painted nails in a soft pink color.

Isane stopped in front of a small refrigerator and turned to Hisagi. "Let's put them in here," she said with a smile. "Rangiku hates warm beer."

"Don't I know it," Hisagi laughed, as they both squatted down to transfer the beers from the box to the frig. Isane had finally relaxed, and he wanted to keep it that way. Maybe by the time they had 'the talk' he was planning, she would be receptive to hearing him out.

"What's in the bag?" Isane asked. Looking over at the white plastic Hisagi had set on the table.

"Not sure," Hisagi answered, as he stood and walked over to open the bag. "I was told to bring this too," he said, starting to pull out the contents. "Sausage wieners, persimmons, and containers of prepared tokoroten," he named each item. "Seems like Rangiku purchased everyone's favorite," Hisagi told Isane. "What's yours?" he asked.

"I don't eat much," Isane said from the opposite side of the table, and Unohana's words flashed briefly in Hisagi's mind.

"Why has Isane yet to master her sword's ability? I can only say she lacks the stamina to sustain it."

"That can't be healthy," Hisagi said, stuffing his hands into the pocket of his khakis. "Could that be the reason your energy is drastically drained when using your Shikai?" he asked cautiously.

Isane shrugged and tried to look away. However, her eyes drawn to Hisagi's physique. He looked good in street clothes; she loved how the fabric of the t-shirt stretched taut across his chest and shoulders. The khakis were slightly baggy but showed off his muscular thighs and rear. She never dreamed the two of them would be standing in her kitchen chitchatting. There was no way she wanted to spend this time with him discussing her diet habits.

"Look, I may be overstepping my bounds, but..." Hisagi began.

"Then don't," Isane whispered. "You're here to celebrate Momo's recovery; let's just do that, okay?" Her large grey eyes appealed to him.

He watched her for a moment and then decided not to pressure her - for now anyway. There would be plenty enough time for that later. "Okay," Hisagi agreed. "Now," he looked down at the ingredients on the table. "I'm assuming Rangiku wants to me cook, hence the sausages," he held up the package of links. "But I'm going to need an assistant," he said, moving over to the sink to wash his hands. "How about it, Kotetsu, are you up to the task?"

"I'll give it a shot!" she smiled, happy he let the matter drop. "Besides, I'm a quick learner," she smirked as she joined him at the sink.

XXXXX

In eight separate sections of the Seireitei, the Onmitsukido Corps tailed their designated targets. The night was their cloak, shadows blending into the darkness from up high - atop buildings, bridge towers and trees, to down low - dark alleyways, stairwells, and sewers. The 2nd division surveillance specialist never lost sight of their prey.

As the previous nights, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. It was the same - bar meetings after work, brief family visits, a night of bowling or karaoke; the majority just went straight home and called it a night. Only to wake up the next morning and repeat the routine.

However, for three individuals on the list, there was a radical change in their nightly regiment. Six cloaked figures stayed to continue surveillance, while the other six left to report the unusual activity of the three in question. After two consecutive nights of reconnaissance, maybe tonight would reveal the person or people who posed a threat to Soul Society.

XXXXX

"Mmmm, that smells great, Hisagi-san." Isane took a giant whiff of the octopus looking sausages piled in the saucepan. "And they taste just as good," she said replacing the lid to keep them warm.

"You've had them before?" Hisagi asked, rinsing the utensils in the sink.

"Remember Yachiru-chan asked you to prepare them for the annual 'Women's Association's' function last year," Isane reminded him. "They were a big hit with everyone; they were gone within 10 minutes." She laughed, as leaned back in the with her legs crossed at the ankle.

Hisagi folded the dish towel and took a seat opposite Isane, leaning forward with his elbows on the table. The woman was really relaxed now, her eyes sparkled with merriment, she laughed easily, and she had stopped pulling at the hem of her skirt, making sure it didn't rise up. "Oh... a beer," Hisagi remembered and prepared to get up.

"Oh... I got it!" Isane chirped, popped out of her chair and went to open the fridge. "Carry the tray into the living room for me, would you? There's more room for the four of us."

"Thanks," Hisagi murmured and picked up the tray of prepared food, but took a moment to watch her lean in to pull out a can. His dark eyes assessed those lovely legs, from her ankle to her calf, up the back of her knee to the creamy thighs her skirt barely covered and Hisagi found himself wanting to measure them. As he turned to move into the living room, the sound of refrigerator door closing interrupted his perverted thought, and Hisagi decided it was time for them to talk.

Isane followed Hisagi and sat, seiza style, between the sofa and low coffee table. She placed a coaster down, next to the tray of food, and then the beer on top and slid the cold can across to table to Hisagi.

"You're not having one?" he asked, picking up the can and popping the top.

"No, I'll wait for the others," she smiled, leaning back against the sofa.

There was a comfortable, not so comfortable silence that followed, as Hisagi took a swig and Isane started to hum a tune. One was thinking about how to broach a sensitive subject, while the other seemed content with just being.

The two had cooked together, had conversed on their past mission. Hisagi had given details on what happened after. His eliminating the tentacles with Kazeshini, leaving Ikkaku, Kira & Yumichika the glory of defeating the Adjucha while he hurried her back to Soul Society. Isane told him that both Hanantaro and Masaru had received praise from Unohana for bringing back evidence and Eiji for the use of his combat skills. Ume had been reprimanded for her emotional outburst and had been suspended from away missions for the time being. All that, and they had yet to cover the most critical topic.

A sudden movement from Hisagi drew Isane's attention. She looked over and saw him chugging his beer as if there was a drought somewhere. Once the can was empty, he set it down and then he got up, moved around the table and squeezed next Isane.

He leaned forward, she drew back, perplexed at his sudden mood swing. Was it possible Hisagi couldn't hold his liquor?

"Eh... Hisagi-san?" Isane inquired timidly, still leaning away from him.

"Just, Hisagi," he said, staring boldly. "We've known each other long enough that we can drop the honorifics, Isane." Hisagi was determined to pursue a deeper relationship with this woman.

"Oh... sure," she exhaled, and then smiled, straightening in her seat. "I-I'm fine with that. You didn't have to be that aggressive about it; you scared me for a second."

"Sorry, I didn't mean to," Hisagi said, but maintained eye contact as he continued, "... but there's been something I've been trying to say - to get off my chest for a few days now and I think now is the time."

"Okay." Isane turned to face him, responding to his seriousness. "You have my full attention. Is there something I can help you with?"

"I hope so," Hisagi smirked.

"Then I'm all ears."

"What's happening between us, Isane?" he asked pointedly. He noticed Isane stiffened at his words, but she remained seated, and Hisagi decided to get it all out. "Since that night, my last night as an inpatient, I've felt drawn to you. Since that night you have been constantly on my mind."

"I'll be honest," Hisagi shook his head, "I don't know how or why; believe me, I've considered every possibility, but my feelings are too intense. At first, I was baffled," he said and had the grace to look embarrassed. "I mean, we've known each other forever and I... I've never thought of you that way. And now, I can't seem to think of anything else."

"Each time I come to the medical ward, I look for you; I followed you to district seventeen - not because Captain Unohana ordered it, but because I requested to accompany you," Hisagi told her and watched Isane's eyes widen in surprise. "I find the more time I spend with you, the more I like being with you, Isane Kotetsu."

He ended there, allowing her time to think things through. Spilling his guts wasn't as hard as he thought, all things considered, this was Isane; the most non-judgemental person he knew. "It's kind of lame, right?" He asked, as the silence stretched and he tried to lighten the mood.

"No," Isane said softly, not looking at him, but at a spot on the wall across the room. "No lamer than having a crush on a guy that never noticed you." With a sigh, Isane turned to look Hisagi in the eye. "I like you Shuhei Hisagi, I always have; from our days at the academy until now. It's been hard watching you pursue another when I was right in front of you - waiting, but there was nothing I could do."

"I didn't have the nerve to approach you, let alone, tell you how I felt." Isane had started to fidget, a nervous habit, clasping her hands together as if in prayer. "Even now, with you saying what you are, that I could have a chance..." she paused with a tremor in her voice, "... I have no idea where to start."

A mixture of emotions ripped through Hisagi; relief that she had not outright rejected him, shock on discovering she had always had feelings for him, disappointment in himself that he was so blinded to not notice. He was also elated that they could move forward.

"Let's start here," Hisagi said, scooting closer to her. Gently, he turned Isane toward him; they were face to face, with their knees touching. "How about a kiss, Isane?"

"A kiss?" she repeated stupidly, and her gaze instinctively fell to his lips.

"Yeah... a kiss," he smiled, and his hands slid up her arms to pull her even closer. "You know you want to," Hisagi coaxed, his warm breath on her mouth. "I know I do. I've been thinking about kissing you all week."

Isane closed her eyes; this was a dream she thought. Hisagi attracted to her; wanting a relationship, wanting to kiss? This was undoubtedly a dream. She almost regretted having to reopen her eyes and wake up to reality. The absurdity of it made her giggle.

"I'll take that as a yes."

His voice, the hands sliding sensually up her arms and finally, the heat from his body had Isane's eyes fluttering open to find Hisagi's dark head and a blur of the '69' tattoo descending a moment before his mouth closed over hers. So surprised by his action, the 4th division medic sat stiff as her fellow vice-captain took liberties, planting butterfly kisses on her lips, his tongue gliding over their fullness and teasing the corners of her mouth. Isane blinked, but kept her eyes open, afraid that if she closed them, he might disappear.

Hisagi drew back and opened his eyes, leaning over Isane with a satisfied smirk. The woman's cheeks were all pink again, as she looked up at him expectantly. There were no sparks - no fireworks, no musical piece popped into his head during the one-sided kiss, and yet, it was not something Hisagi could write off. If he had to describe it, he would have to say the kiss was like Isane herself; fresh and - 'sweet.'

"Sweet?" the medic parroted, making her kissing companion realize he had spoken aloud.

"Yeah... it was quite nice," Hisagi stated; he was on his knees, leaning over her with his arm draped over her shoulder. "Might have been nicer if you would have kissed back," he told her as he lowered his arm and rested back on his heels, but Isane grabbed the front of his t-shirt.

Sweet... nice; Isane liked neither of those descriptions. She wanted... no, needed something more memorable, something better than - nice, she thought, tightening her grip on his shirt. Although she wasn't very experienced, she had been kissed before and wasn't a complete novice. However, it had been a while, before she became a lieutenant and Isane decided it was time to revive what she'd learned during that brief courtship. Just enough to 'wow' him, she thought as she pulled him to her and locked lips again.

Isane's kisses were wild, feverish, a bit rough and Hisagi a hard time following her pace. He sensed her enthusiasm but also knew she was trying a little too hard to improve on the last kiss. Pulling away, Hisagi gently removed Isane's hands from his shirt and rose to his knees again, looking down on her.

"I... I guess that was overkill," Isane gushed sheepishly, trying to make light of her overzealousness although totally embarrassed.

"Hmm, maybe," Hisagi murmured and reached out to separate the hands clasped tight together in her lap. "Kissing is like dancing; if the surefooted partner is allowed to lead, the results are much better," he told Isane. "Let's try again, but this time let me set the pace, okay?"

Nodding silently, Isane had to concede that Hisagi was the more capable of the two. After the feeble attempt to show her expertise, it's a wonder he wanted to continue, Isane was thinking when she felt Hisagi's hands cup her face and tilt her head up to look into his dark, penetrating gaze.

"Come here," Hisagi ordered softly, drawing her up as he lowered his head. Instead of her lips, he kissed her forehead first, applying gentle pressure at the center to settle her. Next, her eyelids; a light to peck each to close them, a relaxing gesture. Pressing his forehead against hers, Hisagi brushed his nose against Isane's; once, twice and felt her shudder. "Now," he whispered, his mouth inches away from Isane's, " Let's take our time."

Setting his head at an angle, Hisagi leaned in, their lips merging. He moved slowly, exploratively, coaxing Isane to do the same. She was tentative at first, her shoulders and arms stiff in his grasp, but the tip of his tongue sliding along her bottom lip had her relaxing enough to place her hands on his shoulders.

Isane was swooning; the patience and tenderness which Hisagi wooed her were foreign to her, and yet somehow she felt as if they had done this before. But, that wasn't possible, she thought, she would never forget something so exquisite, and yet she felt comfortable kissing Hisagi because it seemed so familiar.

Their surroundings blurred, becoming insignificant. The moment Isane opened up to him, Hisagi felt it and decided to take things a step further. His hands moved from her arms to encircle her waist. Spreading his knees apart, Hisagi wedged his thigh between hers and pulled her upper torso into him. Isane gasped but did not pull away, instead, she clung to him.

The room was swaying, and Isane held on for dear life. Hisagi's mouth was relentless, evoking sensations she'd only dreamed about. Her head rolled back, but Hisagi's hands slid into her hair as his tongue slid along her upper lip and plunged into her mouth. Beer had never tasted so good, she thought as her giddiness increased and she started kissing him back passionately, her hands shook as they searched for exposed skin. Pulling Hisagi's t-shirt from the waistband of his fatigues, Isane nails skimmed up and down his back and was rewarded, feeling his body shiver before he moaned into her mouth.

That simple touch and Hisagi's nerve endings were on fire; his body melting and hardening at the same time. He drew back, knowing things could escalate his heightened condition. However, opening his eyes was his undoing.

Isane was leaning into him, her large eyes wide with wonder, her lips plump from his kisses. That delectable pulse in her swan-like neck was beating rapidly, and her hands had started to move from his back, around his torso, traveling up his chest. "Isane..." he whispered, grabbing her hands to hold them still.

She kissed him, her lips brushed lightly over his cheek. "If you want to stop, I will, but I really don't want to," she whispered. Surprised, Hisagi couldn't respond. After a moment of silence, Isane once again leaned in and brushed her mouth against the tattoo on his cheek. "I've always wanted to do that." And then leaned to the other side to run her tongue across the scar on the opposite cheek. "And that."

"And—"

But Hisagi pushed her back and then down to the tatami mat, stopping the rest of her words with his mouth. He kissed her hungrily, much different than before. His gentleness had unleashed something wild, not just in Isane, but himself also. His hand knotted in her hair, pulling her head back to reveal that throbbing pulse and Hisagi's lips left hers to trace a path across her cheek, to her ear, and down her neck with soft bites.

Isane held him tight; her hands clutching his back. She groaned, disappointed as his lips left hers, but hissed, breathing raggedly as he explored other territories. Isane's hand found their way under Hisagi's t-shirt, this time caressing his chest and rippling abs. She felt Hisagi move and then heard a muffled curse, as he knocked his shoulder against the low table.

Hisagi winced in pain, but that did not kill his ardor. He sat up, leaned his back against the sofa, drawing Isane with him and pulled her over his lap straddling him.

"Is your shoulder okay?" he heard her ask, concerned. "Let me..."

He grabbed her neck, silencing her, and pulled her down to kiss her again. He didn't need Isane the medic right now, he wanted Isane, the woman.

His lips demanded and enticed. For the first time in a while, Isane felt desirable - feminine. Hisagi's hands, same as hers, had started to wander. Isane gave a small yelp, feeling his touch at her ankles, before sliding up the length of her legs to cup her bottom. He caressed the smooth skin, grasping each cheek and pressing her womanhood into his burgeoning flesh.

"Hot," Hisagi stopping kissing Isane and breathed into her hair. "Isane wearing a thong, I would never have imagined." His fingers slid under the strip of fabric at the base of her spine. "You're full of surprises, my sweet."

There was no response; Isane was overwhelmed with sensation, her body moving on its own volition. Fisting his dark hair in her hands, she ground against him as his tongue found the sensitive area at the column of her throat. Was that her voice, Isane recalled thinking? The mewling, whimpering grunts and squeals of delight. She felt wanton, and it felt good. Isane made no protest feeling Hisagi's hands at the zipper of her hoodie, nor did she stop him from peeling the material from her shoulders and down her arms. And then, time seemed to stand still.

He lay back against the sofa, his eyes drinking in the sight before him. Isane's heavy breathing only enhancing the vision of the most unexpected surprise yet. Encased in a satiny, black balconette confection, Isane's buxom breast presented a captivating cleavage, and Hisagi felt an urge to drool. His hand left Isane's waist, traveled slowly up to front opening; a flick of the thumb and an index finger on the clasp and he watched as her ample breast spilled from the fabric. They were perfect; firm and high. Her pink nipples were already coiled tight, and budding, inviting him.

Isane waited; with eyes closed. Same with her height, she had a phobia about her breast; they were too large and unattractive, or so she'd been told and felt the first decline in her rapture. As her habit, Isane's shoulders hunched forward, trying to shrink away, but gasped, feeling Hisagi's hands lift and began to massage the creamy mounds. Isane's response was instantaneous and spasmodic; she grabbed Hisagi's wrist, yet at the same time arched back giving him better access. Another sensation was rising from the pit of her core, Isane could feel; it was raw, all-consuming, animalistic in its intensity and she shied from it.

Her breasts were extra sensitive, Hisagi could tell from her reaction, but they felt good in his hands. His thumb brushed across a stiff peak, and Isane cried out, nearly unseated herself from his lap. The woman's reactions were contradictory; one minute she tried to pull away and the next she holding him tight, not wanting to let go. "We have to stop, Isane?" Hisagi said, even though he knew she was way past that point. Through his own haze of passion, Hisagi realized he had heard the bell toll, signaling Kira and Rangiku would be arriving soon.

Pulling Isane's shivering body close, Hisagi pressed her head into the crook of his neck and rubbed her back, trying to soothe her unfulfilled desires, not to mention his own. The two sat there allowing their bodies to subside from the frenzied passion moments before. "Okay now?" Hisagi asked softly, as Isane finally sat up, turning her back to him.

"Yes." Her voice was barely a whisper. With her hands folded over her chest, Isane twisted to and fro, looking for...

"Looking for this?" Hisagi smiled as he held up the black satin, the fine material dangling from his finger. "Come here and let me watch you put it on? I promise I won't touch."

"Hisagi!" Isane gasped, trying to sound offended.

"Let me be clear on something," Hisagi began, as he scooted behind Isane and turned her around to face him. He held the bra out of reach until she dropped her arms. "As of tonight, you and I are official," he informed her while enjoying an eyeful of her charms. "And if you get... never mind, we'll continue this later; they're here," Hisagi said, meaning, Rangiku and Kira.

Isane stopped to listen but didn't hear anything. She turned to Hisagi to inquire and found him standing behind her, the sweatshirt she had been looking for hanging over his arm. He held it while she slid her arms into it and then turned her around and zipped it as far as it would go. "Would you mind greeting them by yourself?" he asked.

"Why? Where are you going?" Isane asked.

"To your bathroom," Hisagi said. "Which way is it?"

"Down the hall, first door on the left."

Hisagi turned down the narrow passage, and a second later, she heard Kira's deep voice and Rangiku's throaty chuckle, just before the redhead opened the door to find Isane carrying the tray into the kitchen.

"Foods cold," she threw over her shoulder, as she padded down the hall. "I'll reheat it."

"As long as the beers are cold," Rangiku tittered and followed Isane.

With the women in the kitchen, Kira took a seat, his ever-observant eye taking in his surroundings. This was his first time at Isane's place. Her entry had limited slippers, and there were little to no scuff marks on the floor; that meant the 4th division lieutenant had few visitors. The same for her living room, Kira could tell Isane didn't use this room much, probably spent more time in a place where he imagined her medical book and logs were kept.

He heard the toilet flush, drawing Kira's attention to the hall leading to the back of the house and waited for Hisagi to emerge. He and Isane had spent over an hour together - alone. Only one beer can was on the table, and yet both the coffee table and sofa were askew; two people, one empty beer can and only one section of the living room sofa appeared to have been occupied. The numbers didn't add up.

Hisagi stepped from the hall and saw Kira sitting on the opposite end of the sofa. "You guys made it; it's about time," Hisagi sat on the floor in front of the coffee table. "What was the call? What happened out there?" he asked his friend and fellow lieutenant.

Kira smirked, arched a sadistic brow and pointed to the spot Hisagi seemed to avoid.

"Instead, Hisagi, why don't you tell me what happened in here."

'Til next chapter...