Hey one and all. This chapter took forever I KNOW but it is the beginning of something exciting (or sad, scary, OMG, etc.) Our two little love birds are safe for now but like I said, the future doesn't look so good. But I'll let you enjoy this while you can. MWAHAHAHA?!
Sui-Feng appears and hits me over the head. "Get on with it!"
"Yes ma'am!"
Chapter 9
The morning light shined gently through the windows of Yoruichi's room. The bodies on the bed were intertwined as if neither wanted to let go of the other. Yoruichi had her head over Sui-Feng's heart and was soothed by its steady rhythmic beat. Her arm was wrapped around the younger girl's waist, while Sui-Feng had a protective arm around her shoulder's.
Sui-Feng was the first to wake. Her eyes met an unfamiliar ceiling and she felt an unfamiliar form against hers. She looked down to see amethyst colored hair and blushed remembering last night. Yoruichi's request for her to stay was something she could not deny. However, Sui-Feng knew that this was something they couldn't continue if the relationship was to remain a secret from those who would not agree.
She looked down to observe her goddess. Yoruichi's face was one of peace. During the night her loose hair had fallen over them both. The hairs tickled Sui-Feng's partially open yukata. She blushed as she noticed Yoruichi's hand so close to her bare skin as it had come open to her navel. She shifted to pull it closed but Yoruichi's arm prohibited her from doing so. In fact the subtle movement brought a satisfied sigh from the dark skinned woman as she snuggled more into her protégé.
Sui-Feng didn't think the woman would be waking up any time soon. She had never been known to be an early riser, sometimes even sleeping until noon if able. Sui-Feng smiled realizing that thankfully, while they had ben apart for so long, Yoruichi had not changed. She was still the honest, playful woman she had grown up following. Though finding joy in that fact, it would take time for her to fully give Yoruichi what she wanted. Sui-Feng didn't think she could handle the woman's impending marriage. To see the woman she cherished and adored given to another made an anger burn in her belly that hadn't in a while.
'Is it worth it?' Sui-Feng found herself asking herself again. 'Can we put each other through the pain of having to hide? What will we do when Yoruichi is finally married? Do I have the strength to stand by and watch her have someone's child?'
These questions burned in Sui-Feng's mind. She was quickly finding herself in a hopeless situation. Yoruichi had asked her not to run anymore. Frankly, Sui-Feng was tired of running from the woman. Besides, she had vowed to serve her goddess with mind, body, and soul. So if the woman was requesting her heart, shouldn't she give her that?
Sui-Feng's thoughts were interrupted when felt fingers dancing along the exposed flesh of her stomach. She blushed and looked down only to be met by gold eyes.
"You're buzzing pretty loud for it to be so early in the morning little bee." Yoruichi said in a soft voice that sent shivers of desire down Sui-Feng's spine. The husky tone in the dark woman's voice and her half lidded eyes were enchanting.
Sui-Feng swallowed before answering, "Good morning Yoruichi-sama."
"Sui, we're in bed together. Can't you drop the formality all together?" Yoruichi said with a laugh before placing a kiss on Sui's chin.
"It's a habit." Sui-Feng answered. Yoruichi sat up before placing a hot kiss on the girl's mouth.
"Outside these doors I understand, but when we are alone, call me Yoruichi, okay?" She said softly.
"Alright...Yoruichi." Sui-Feng said softly feeling a bit weird leaving out the last part. They lay in silence a while longer while Yoruichi traced circles around Sui-Feng's belly button. This caused the young girl to squirm at the unusually pleasant feeling. She began to blush brighter and brighter with each pass of Yoruichi's fingers. The older woman noticed and while she was enjoying the activity decided to stop her torture. However, she made a note to pay attention to that particular spot when the time came.
"We should probrablyprobably get up. I have to go into the office today." Sui-Feng said making motions to get up. Yoruichi frowned and pushed the girl back down.
"Sui-Feng we have the day off." Yoruichi said. "You can't work all the time, it's unhealthy."
"But I practically had yesterday off so it's okay if I go in today." Sui-Feng answered.
"I want to spend the entire day with you." Yoruichi said with an expectant look.
Sui-Feng gave a stressed sigh. She would love nothing more than to do stay with Yoruichi all day, but she was behind on a lot of paperwork. She still had to write her report on the bathyms for the Commander and compile it with Kisuke's. "Yoruichi-sama-"
"Sui." Yoruichi pinched at Sui-Feng's rib for the honorific.
"Ow! Did you just?" Sui-Feng began before pushing them both over so she was on top of Yoruichi and. tThen began a mini wrestling match on the bed. Yoruichi tried to push them back over but Sui-Feng based out a leg to stop her momentum. Laughter was heard as the two enjoyed their game. It wasn't until they felt the feeling of bare skin on skin that they stopped moving. Sui-Feng had been victorious in keeping Yoruichi on her back but the older woman had pulled Sui-Feng into her body by hooking her legs around her waist so she could roll the girl over. She didn't get far.
Yoruichi gave an uncharacteristic blush at their position and Sui-Feng was in shock so embarrassment had not yet set in. The cat woman looked in her protégé's eyes raising her head to kiss the younger girl. Sui-Feng's shock slowly wore off when she felt soft lips on her's and began to return the kiss. It didn't take long before things turned heated and Sui-Feng's leg rubbed against Yoruichi's center by accident. This caused the older woman to give out a lustful moan into Sui-Feng's mouth making the girl give a throaty one back in response.
Sui-Feng pulled back, panting. The force of the emotions going through her was something she was unused to. This was happening too fast. Slowly pulling back from Yoruichi, Sui-Feng slowly unhooked her goddess legs from around her waist.
"Yoruichi-sa-, I mean Yoruichi, I have to go." Sui-Feng said slowly. She sat on the edge of the bed averting her gaze from her goddess open yukata while closing hers.
"Are we moving too fast?" Yoruichi asked pouting from losing the delicious feel of Sui-Feng's skin on hers.
"Yes, we are. I don't lose sight of what I need to do." Sui-Feng answered softly.
"Sign paperwork?" Yoruichi joked giving a small laugh. She stopped when she noticed the somber look on Sui-Feng's face.
"Protecting you." Came the reply. "I don't want to make a mistake and lose you."
"Little bee, I'm not going anywhere. No one can take me from you again. I promise." Yoruichi leaned forward and held the girl's face between her hands and looked into her eyes.
"Yoruichi..." Sui-Feng began but stopped herself. Someone needed to tell her the situation. There were things at work that could definitely take Yoruichi away from her and that's what scared her. She had to first focus on the problem of the bathyms, then she could spend what time she had left with Yoruichi. "How about we have dinner tonight when I get back?"
A smile lit up Yoruichi's face at the thought. "Taking the initiative? I like that. Where do you want to go?"
Sui-Feng mulled over the question for a few seconds. "Grandmother asked about you the other night. I'm sure she would love to have us for dinner."
"Jou Mou? Of course I'd love to see her." Yoruichi smiled pecking the girl on the lips. She loved the feel of Sui's lips on hers. Sui-Feng noticed. Standing up she went to her pile of neatly folded clothes from the previous night and began to dress. Yoruichi watched her as she dressed, enjoying the show. Sui-Feng noticed and turned her back after her pants were on. Yoruichi noticed the faint scars on her back and wondered what story each one told.
She stood as Sui-Feng walked to the door. Before she turned the handle Yoruichi pinned her with another kiss.
"Something to make you hurry back. Bye." Yoruichi purred. Sui-Feng blushed in reply and walked out going to her room for her uniform before heading to her division.
As expected there was loads of paperwork to sign and Sui-Feng angrily noted all the crumbs that Omaeda had left on her desk. Luckily he had the day off like everyone else. If he had been there Sui-Feng would definitely be kicking him around the office. She made a mental note to do so later.
She was currently writing up a report for the Commander on the current situation on the bathyms in the living world. She needed to speak with Urahara Kisuke to get his findings but they weren't scheduled to meet for another two days. She finished what she could before setting it to the side.
Sui-Feng leaned back in her chair and thought about the last month. Yoruichi's return had definitely made life a bitlt more interesting than it had been. Now the new threat made Sui-Feng wonder if she could really do her job and give Yoruichi what she wished. The woman had no idea of the threat targeting her or why. Sui-Feng had sworn no to tell her but she wished Satoshi would soon. The Commander knew the situation as well but Sui-Feng wasn't sure how much. She ran a hand through her hair in frustration. All this secrecy was like a puzzle waiting to be completed and Sui-Feng wasn't sure if she was ready for the big picture.
Urahara Kisuke was working on the schematics for a new invention when he heard Tessai call for him. Sighing at the interruption he stood up and popped the kink out of his back. He hated having to put his genius on hold when he was on a roll. He walked out of the room and up the stairs to the main floor where Tessai was eyeing a man in a blue and yellow haori with the Soul King's symbol on his back. This was a royal messenger. The man turned to face them.
"Urahara Kisuke I presume?" He asked in an authoritative voice.
"Yes?" Kisuke asked hoping he wasn't in trouble.
"I have a message for you that is not to be repeated in any way. Your comliancecompliance is mandatory. You will arrive at the gates of Kirinji Tenjiro's City 6 months from today at sunrise. Bring only your Zanpaktou and nothing or no one else. Is that understood?" The messenger eyed him.
"Yes, thank you." Kisuke replied his irritation from being interrupted was now replaced with curiosity. "Can I ask what this is pertaining to?"
"No, you may not." And with that the messenger was gone.
Kisuke said nothing for a while before shrugging. He'd find out what this was about when the time came. Hopefully he didn't forget or there would probably be hell to pay.
Smacking himself in the forehead he almost forgot to analyze and compile the data he had gathered on the bathyms.
"Well no time like the present." He muttered as he descended the stairs once again to his lab. There was junk everywhere from gadgets that the remained unfinished to paper with plans strewn all over the floor. Tessai had offered to clean it more than once but Kisuke declined. Although it looked untidy, Kisuke could find what he was looking for with minimal searching.
He sifted through some papers and photos he had collected on the bathyms and placed them on his desk. The photos were grotesque as many were of rotting humans or hollows but that was all that remained of the bathyms after they were destroyed. From what he had gathered the bathyms need any type of life to thrive whether it be hollows, humans, or spirits. Some had shown the ability to self- multiply and even evolve. One bathym in particular had shown signs of self- recovery and had been ridiculously hard to kill. Luckily, Uryuu had been there and since his specialty was turning others spiritual energy against them they were able to stop it. The findings were troublesome indeed.
Sui-Feng would be pleased with the amount of information gathered since they weren't sure how to go about finding the root of the problem. He frowned at the thought of the young captain. She had made an effort at the festival to be cordial and of course he had pushed her buttons but he wondered why the change in attitude now. Even Yoruichi seemed surprised so he knew it had to be on the girl's own volition. Part of him didn't want her to be as he had grown comfortable with her cold demeanor. Besides he was irked that Yoruichi had chosen her over him. He was stuck in what the living world called the friend zone and it fucking sucked.
He had always tried his hardest to make Yoruichi happy and the mistake he made that had gotten out of hand ruined whatever chances he thought he had with the Shihouin woman. She left as soon as things quieted down and didn't want to be near him and that hurt. She treated him like a work colleague only checking in for updates and leaving the next morning without even a goodbye. The friendship seemed over and call him crazy for it he missed that more than anything. He decided he'd rather have Yoruichi as a friend than nothing at all so he tried his best to make her happy even if it was at his own expense. So if she chose Sui-Feng as her lover than who was he to argue?
Yoruichi was on her way to the 2nd Division to see Sui-Feng. The girl had obviously lost track of time with her work as the sun was beginning to set. Leave it to Sui-Feng to enjoy working on her day off. When she arrived at the office she was surprised when the door opened for her. Sui-Feng blinked.
"Um, ready to go?" Yoruichi asked.
"Yes, I just finished up." Sui-Feng responded noting that Yoruichi was wearing her normal attire of black and orange. She had no idea why the woman loved the color so much. Interestingly enough, Sui-Feng had missed the color when she left. Before Sui-Feng could close the door behind her Yoruichi pushed her inside and kissed her deeply.
"I missed you." She sighed.
"I was gone for a few hours." Sui-Feng said quizzically.
"What I can't want to be near you?" Yoruichi joked.
"Of course. Anyway want to race to the compound?" Sui-Feng asked. Before she got a response Yoruichi had already taken off. "Cheater." Sui-Feng grumbled before giving chase.
They arrived at the Feng compound simultaneously. Yoruichi had a bright smile on her face to combat the scowl Sui-Feng had on hers.
"You cheated." Sui-Feng accused.
"You know I have a tendency to jump the gun." Yoruichi replied as she stuck out her tongue. They walked through the gates and Yoruichi looked around in awe at the newly renovated compound. The last time she had been there the compound was like a ghost town. There were very few people and the buildings looked ready to cave in. Now the streets were bustling with activity, the buildings were brand new, and people greeted her and Sui-Feng with admiration and respect.
Sui-Feng nodded a short greeting to each person they passed by and was surprised as a group of children surrounded her and one child wrapped himself around her waist.
"Feng-juĕyé! When I grow up I wanna be just like you!" The boy said. This made Sui-Feng give him a bashful smile since she was not used to much praise. Yoruichi laughed at the boy's remark finding it cute that the children looked up to her little bee. Sui-Feng patted the boy on the head as he released her and they continued on.
"Wow," Yoruichi remarked. "this place has really changed. I've never seen it so alive."
"After the fires there wasn't much left. When your father made me leader of the Onmitsukido I used all the money I made to rebuild and recruited those that had skills from the districts. Things were slow at first but I worked hard for the name of my family. I couldn't have done it without your father and with the new funding he's giving us, I'm more than grateful." Sui-Feng explained.
"Father has always valued loyalty. I know he has always said that our family owes yours a lot. Besides it seems that you're not only a great captain but a great leader for your people." Yoruichi gave the girl a look of fondness. It had been a while since she had looked at Sui-Feng like that and the girl noticed. She felt her face heat up and turned her attention back to the street.
When they reached the house Yoruichi gave a whistle. "I definitely don't remember your house looking like this."
Sui-Feng didn't say anything as she knocked once before walking inside. "Jou Mou, we're here."
There was a blur and next thing Yoruichi knew she was having the life hugged out of her. She looked down to see the top of a silver head.
"Shihouin Yoruichi, it's been a long time child." Jou Mou said joyfully before letting go. Yoruichi gasped for air before smiling.
"Yes it has. I see you're as strong and spirited as ever."
"Of course I have to make sure I can keep up with you kids. My, my you've turned into a full grown woman. Your breast are much bigger than her little bee stings." Jou Mou remarked pointing a thumb at Sui-Feng.
A tick mark of annoyance broke out on the girl's forehead, "Jou Mou." She said in warning.
"Oh please." Jou Mou huffed before going into the kitchen to start dinner. "Yoruichi how have you been all these years?"
"Exiled. I had to stop a grave mistake from occurring and had to escape with a friend. Now that all that is over I've been exonerated and reinstated as a captain." She said as she took a seat at the table.
"I'll be right back, I need to check on some things." Sui-Feng said as she headed for the door.
"Okay." Both women answered as the girl left. The second the door closed Jou Mou set the knife she had been using to cut the sea cucumbers down and took a seat at the table.
"Yoruichi I just want to make sure you know that you put my granddaughter through hell when you left. I don't know your reasons for not taking her with you nor does it matter. Know this, if you ever hurt my granddaughter like that again...I will come after you." Jou Mou said hell fire shining in her old eyes. Yoruichi had to gulp at the woman's seriousness and knew that she would make good on her threat to the best of her ability.
"If that ever happens I'll deserve it. Sui-Feng made me aware of everything and I'm sorry. I don't plan to leave her side again." Yoruichi said returning the look with one of determination.
"Good! Now how's that father of yours. I only saw him briefly about the renovations but he looked healthy enough." Jou Mou said cheerfully before going back to preparing dinner.
"He's well. The same as ever really. He seems stressed about something but I'm not sure what. I'm a little peeved with him because the elders are pushing for me to be married." Yoruichi answered.
"Of course you expected that coming back. Your clan needs to ensure their future. I'm sure you'll have suitors surrounding the estate." Jou Mou laughed.
"Ugh, I've already met about 30 last night. They were all so pompous it made me sick. One actually wasn't too bad. I wouldn't be surprised if I see more of him." Yoruichi sighed wearily. She hated thinking about her impending marriage.
"Do you already have interest in someone else?" Jou Mou prodded.
Yoruichi paused not knowing whether or not she should answer. They were trying to keep their relationship secret. She decided to answer vaguely. "Yes, but it's complicated."
"I'm sure that would be, especially since I have no idea how you two would have children." Jou Mou answered throwing some food in the wok on the stove.
Yoruichi blinked. "You know?"
"Now I do. Besides I know how close you are to Sui-Feng and how she feels about you but I wasn't sure about your feelings." The old woman smiled at the younger woman. "I hope you two understand the situation. I hope this doesn't turn into a fiasco."
"Very few people know but they are all trustworthy." Yoruichi answered.
"Does your father know?" Jou Mou asked before putting a dish into the stove.
"Yes and I think that's why Sui-Feng stopped running from me." She said.
"Running from you?" The silver woman asked curiously.
"Yeah, I guess she didn't know how to handle everything. Something, um, happened. Then father told us about the marriage and that she was being made my personal guard again. After that I didn't see her for weeks." Yoruichi said.
"Well at least she came to her senses. Her father used to run from women. He wasn't smooth as your father." Jou Mou barked a laugh at the memory.
"What was dad like when he was younger?" Yoruichi asked in curiously.
"A complete trouble maker. He and Sai terrorized Sereitei pulling pranks, sneaking into the women's bath house, and anything that could cause trouble. I remember when he was finally able to transform into a cat. He would go around peeking at women making them think he was a regular cat. His favorite thing was to switch back and strut around naked. I remember a particular woman he exposed himself to pushed him in to a large bush of poison ivy. He was itching in places that made me feel sorry for him after a while." Jou Mou cackled as she thought back to that day.
Yoruichi laughed at the thought. She was definitely her father's child. Not as perverted, but she and Kisuke were known to be terrors when they were younger. "He and your son were close?"
"Like brothers. They were always together. Even when your father became Gundanchou they remained close. Things were different because of their status but Satoshi still came around when he could. He was devastated when Sai died." The old woman sighed. "Anyway enough about that. Dinner is almost ready and Sui-Feng still isn't back."
"Would you like me to set the table?" Yoruichi asked.
"Heaven's no. You're a guest and I will not have any guest of mine helping out. You can go find Sui-Feng and tell her dinner is ready. She's probably at the dojo, it's just down the street." Jou Mou began setting the table as Yoruichi stood up and left.
Just as Jou Mou said Yoruichi found Sui-Feng pouring over records of the students being trained. She stayed silent in her approach and wrapped her arms around the young captain placing a kiss on her neck. Sui-Feng stiffened at first and then relaxed.
"Dinners ready." Yoruichi said softly in Sui-Feng's ear before giving it a kiss.
"Alright." Sui-Feng replied closing the book and standing up from the desk,
"Find anything interesting?" Yoruichi asked following the girl out of the dojo.
"Just looking at who might be the next to join the ranks. A lot of orphans come into the compound to find better lives and many of them hoping for the honor to join the Onmitsukido. Since they're orphans they can be inducted into the Feng family if they prove themselves worthy. It's the fastest way to rebuild. Blood is important to us but I don't have much choice and the family understands. None of them could become head of the Feng though. If I fall my cousins will take my place." Sui-Feng replied.
They entered the house and were greeted by a table full of food. Yoruichi felt herself salivate. Jou Mou's food had always been good.
"Well what are you waiting for? Dig in." Jou Mou said placing the last dish on the table before sitting down herself.
Not much talking was done as they ate their meal. Yoruichi was putting away the food faster than the other two., After a while she noticed Jou Mou's wide eyed stare.
"I'm sorry." Yoruichi said after swallowing a rather big bite. "I hardly ate today and your cooking is the best."
"I'm just glad I made enough. At least I won't have to worry about putting away left overs." Jou Mou shook her head with a laugh. " Sui-Feng how was your food?"
"Excellent as always grandmother." The captain answered as she stood up and placed her dish in the sink to wash it. She began to clear the dishes that were empty and wash them too, much to her grandmother's chagrin. It was a habit the girl had. She was always tidy and insisted on helping after a meal.
Yoruichi finished later and after both Feng women were done cleaning they bid Jou Mou good night. They began to walk at a leisurely pace talking about trivial things.
Before they knew it they were standing in front of Yoruichi's bedroom door.
"Are you going to come inside?" Yoruichi asked as she leaned back against the door.
"I think we should call a night." Sui responded nervously.
"Are you going to your room?" Yoruichi asked unable to keep the disappointment from creeping into her voice.
"It would be for the best. I can't stay with you every night. The servants will begin to notice if I'm not sleeping in my own bed." Sui-Feng answered with a blush.
"You could always ruff up the sheets and then come to my room." Yoruichi said with an eyebrow raised.
"Yoruichi...I enjoyed tonight but I really have to stay in my room." Sui-Feng stepped forward to place a quick kiss on the princess lips before stepping back.
"Alright. Goodnight little bee." She said with a satisfied smile.
"Good night Yoruichi." Sui-Feng replied as she continued down the hall leaving a sexually frustrated Yoruichi.
' I hope she's ready soon.' Was her only thought as she went to the bathroom to prepare for bed.
Days passed and Sui-Feng found herself outside of Urahara's Shoten. She looked at the shack with distaste. The man could at least make it look more presentable. Walking inside she was greeted by Tessai who went to fetch the genius. She wasn't waiting long before a disheveled and weary Kisuke entered to room.
"Ah Sui-chan so nice to see you. I take it you're here for the report." He said as he scratched his head.
Sui-Feng wrinkled her nose. It smelled like he hadn't showered in days. "Yes I would like to talk to you as well, if you have time."
"Sure." Kisuke replied as he made a move to sit at the table.
"Outside." Sui-Feng said quickly stopping him. She hoped the outside air would give her nose some relief. The man nodded and followed her outside. She leaned against the post as he took a seat on the edge of the porch.
"So how bad is it?" She asked.
"Well the Arrancars would probably give these things a wide berth. I've actually found that quite a few of them have different abilities that makes it harder to kill than most. They have the ability to self- multiply, self-evolve, and self-recovery. I haven't figured out what to call them. I'd advise anyone that runs into these types to have backup. It took Ichigo, Uryuu and myself to kill one that could self-recover. It seems that one not only uses the souls and bodies he's devoured as food but can absorb kido for energy. I have a theory that if in soul society it can pull spirit energy from the air making it even more formidable." Kisuke explained. "What is most disturbing is what you find after these things die."
He handed the captain a folder he had been holding. When she opened it she surprised at the gory images inside. She looked back at the blond for confirmation of what she was really seeing.
"So in short we're dealing with the walking dead?" She asked slowly.
"If you want to call it that. I believe the living call them zombies. I haven't been able to figure out what the substance is that's covering them since it fades away immediately after they die but my guess is its some form of kido." Kisuke answered.
Sui-Feng frowned at him. "What do you know about other types of kido?" She asked and narrowed her eyes. He looked back at her and leaned back on his elbows closing his eyes.
"Well besides the demon kido we use, nothing." He shook his head. "That's why I'm trying to get a sample of the substance that surrounds these things. If I can analyze it I might be able to figure out what it is and if they have a weakness." He explained
Sui-Feng gave him a look as if trying to gauge if he was holding back more than he let on. She let it go for nowknow but made a mental note to keep an eye on him.
"How's Yoruichi?" Kisuke asked opening an eye.
"Fine." Sui-Feng gave a short answer. She then sighed internally realizing that she had to at least try and make conversation. Slowly, she continued, "She's gotten back accustomed with running a division. Other than that she's the same as always."
"How's she taking to the whole impending marriage?" Of course Yoruichi told him.
"She's trying not to think about it. She found one suitor that might not be too bad. Thankfully, her father isn't pushing her."
"I didn't think she'd be wanting to deal with it seeing as she's already interested in someone." Kisuke gave Sui-Feng a steady look that was returned. "It wasn't hard to guess. When we left she was so distant. I didn't mean to put her through what happened, but I had to stop Aizen."
"Of course you did. It was your fault in the first place." Sui-Feng snapped. "The bumbling idiot scientist that almost gets everyone killed trying to prove his genius. Just don't poke around with anything like that ever again or else I'll kill you." Sui-Feng gave a glare to accompany her threat.
"And if you hurt her I hope you know I'll kill you. I know you'd do the same if she'd have chosen me." He said after a moment of silence. "Even if she doesn't want me I only care for her safety and happiness."
Sui-Feng thought on his words. They were definitely unselfish even though it was apparent the man was hurt with the outcome of things. He did make an interesting point, Yoruichi could very well have chosen to never come back and stay with him. The thought tugged at her heart as she swallowed hard. She suddenly became very thankful that she was not in Kisuke's place. He would never know what it was like to hold or kiss Yoruichi. She had definitely been blessed to experience the love the woman offered while they had the chance. For the first time ever Sui-Feng pitied the man. Yet, he blatantly let her know that he cared for Yoruichi as much as she did. Maybe there was a chance for them to be cordial with each other if not just for Yoruichi's sake.
"Well it seems we have more in common than we originally thought. I still think you're a lazy moronic slob." She said.
"And I think you're an uptight bitch." He answered back with a smirk. She smirked back. They made a silent agreement that they would try to look at each other in a different light.
Yoruichi knocked on the door to her father's study before walking inside. She found him pouring over what looked like an old scroll. He looked up and smiled when he saw his daughter.
"Kitten, how are you?" He asked setting down the scroll.
"Fine Daddy. Am I interrupting something?" She asked.
"No not at all. Just looking at some old documents your great grandfather wrote. I needed a break anyway." He said rubbing tired eyes. "Was there something you needed?"
"I talked to Sui-Feng the other day about what happened when I left. She told me something interesting about a were-panther named Kenta. Does that sound like anyone you know?" She asked with a knowing look.
"It's better she doesn't know. If she had known it was me she would have never opened up to me the way she did. She needed guidance." He responded
with a sigh. "If I had more time with her before the rebellion she would have been on par with you years ago. I guess it's a good thing I didn't. She might have actually killed you."
"Are you ever going to tell her?" Yoruichi asked. "She sounded like she really missed having Kenta around."
"I doubt it. After she vowed to kill you at her induction to captain I just didn't have it in me. Besides she became so emotionally detached that I didn't see the point." Satoshi answered.
"Well it seems that some of your personality still rubbed off on her." Yoruichi laughed.
"Oh? And what might that be?" He asked.
"Your sarcasm." She answered wryly. Satoshi laughed long and hard.
"I got that from her father so I guess it's in her blood." He answered.
"I heard from Jou-san that you and Sui's father were good friends." Yoruichi said.
"Yes, we were." He answered with a nod. There was a pause as gave a small smile before replying slowly. " I think that's the biggest reason why I approached her as Kenta after you left. I owe her father more than I could ever repay and so I plan to make amends by helping her in whatever way I can." Satoshi sighed.
"He would appreciate everything you did father. I know Jou-san does too. I am especially grateful." Yoruichi gave a small smile.
"You're my daughter and I'd do anything to make you happy. How are things with your duties?" He inquired.
"Fine for now. It wasn't that hard adjusting since Shunsui had everything under control when he left. I made his old 3rd seat my lieutenant and he has proven himself. A lot of renovations have been made to the barracks because they were falling apart. All together, I can't complain. I've actually been waiting for you to start handing me some of your responsibilities since people expect you to step down at any moment." She said.
"Well they'll be waiting for a while. After you come back from Tenjiro's City then we'll start giving you some more responsibilities. I'm only going to give you a few so that you can enjoy your freedom while you still can." He gave her a knowing look and she blushed looking away.
"I appreciate it. I was actually wondering if Sui-Feng and I could get permission to go to the living world for a week of vacation." The woman asked looking hopefully at her father.
"I'll have to ask her first." During one of Sui-Feng's reports she had made him aware that the bathyms were in the living world causing problems as well. He'd have to let Sui-Feng make the decision as she was the main one on the investigation.
"Okay..." Yoruichi said slowly. It was unusual for Satoshi to ask Sui-Feng's advice on a matter but she was sure he had his reasons. "Well I'll leave you to your dusty old scrolls. Sui-Feng should be back soon and I want to make sure I see her before she gets trapped in all the meetings she has lined up for today." Yoruichi stood up and made her way to the door.
"I'll think about revealing Kenta." He said before placing his attention back on his reading.
The senkaimon opened in front of the 2nd Division and Sui-Feng walked out of it and into her office. She quickly became annoyed as she saw Omaeda sitting at her desk with his feet on top of her paperwork all the while munching his favorite crackers. He was getting crumbs everywhere, the fat glutton.
"Omaeda!" Sui-Feng growled angrily. Omaeda looked up and paled.
"How many times have I told you not to eat in my office." She said icily as she began to make her way closer to the man.
"Many times Taicho! A thousand apologies Taicho!" He yelled out in fear as he scrambled to get out of the seat and away from the desk. More importantly, away from his irate captain.
Sui-Feng cocked back a fist to pummel the fool when she heard her name being called and paused her assault.
"Sui-Feng? I hope I didn't miss her!" Yoruichi's voice could be heard coming closer. Omaeda saw his chance to escape but Sui-Feng was faster. Grabbing him by his ugly collar she slammed him against the wall.
"Clean up this mess! If I find another crumb in my office I will make sure that they have to medically discharge you from the military!" She hissed quietly as Omaeda cowered from her wrath thanking the heavens that the dark skinned woman had saved him from what was sure to be a painful beating. He scrambled on the ground trying to pick up every miniscule crumb that had escaped his mouth.
"There you are. I thought I missed you." Yoruichi said as she came into the office to see Sui-Feng's lieutenant cowering against the wall.
"I actually just got back." The younger captain answered as she turned to look at Yoruichi. It was nostalgic seeing her in the captain's haori even if it was from another division.
"Do you have a minute?" Yoruichi asked.
"Sure. Leave Omaeda!" Sui-Feng barked and the man scrambled out as fast as he could. After he was gone Yoruichi gave a small laugh. "For a fat guy he can move pretty fast."
"Yes, especially when he's been saved from me beating the living daylights out of him." Sui-Feng frowned. "What was it you wanted to talk about?"
"Well seeing as we haven't had any time together since your grandmother's I was hoping we could spend a little time before your marathon of meetings." Yoruichi closed the shoji door behind her and went to sit on the desk.
"I have some time. Do you want to go for lunch?" Sui-Feng asked.
Yoruichi shook her head no and crooked her finger in a come hither motion. Sui-Feng swallowed knowing what the woman wanted.
While intimacy was something that Yoruichi evidently wanted Sui-Feng couldn't bring herself to take that step. It was becoming easier to share kisses and caresses but it seemed Yoruichi wanted a make out session whenever possible. It was becoming harder and harder to resist the woman.
She stepped in between the dark skinned woman's parted legs and placed a kiss on her lips. Yoruichi groaned in satisfaction and smiled into the kiss. The older woman's hands kept tugging at Sui-Feng's sash but she kept grabbing them and interlacing their fingers so they could not continue their mischievous quest. They continued for a little longer until a hell butterfly interrupted them. Both received their individual messages and began to straighten up their robes.
"The commander wants to start our meeting early." Sui-Feng explained as she retied the sash on her waist.
"The elders want to speak with me." Yoruichi replied and brushed a hand through her locks. She had a smirk in place as she watched Sui-Feng make herself decent. "Are you busy tonight?"
"I'm not sure. I might have to take a squad to the living world if this meeting goes the way I think it will." Sui-Feng answered as she gave herself one last look over. She saw the look on Yoruichi's face and knew that she'd better leave before the women jumped her again and made her late. "I'll send a messenger to let you know." Sui-Feng said hurriedly before pushing the shoji door aside and shunpoed away.
Part of Yoruichi wanted to chase after her but knew that she had somewhere she needed to be as well. It was getting harder and harder for her to keep her hands off of Sui-Feng. Something about the girl just made her hot. Maybe it was the way she moved; agile, fluid, and deadly. To Yoruichi that just screamed sexy to her. When Sui-Feng was younger the innocent expressions were the biggest part of Sui-Feng's appeal. Now the new mysterious part of Sui-Feng was the part that made Yoruichi crave the girl. She was very different from what Yoruichi remembered but the change was something that could be appreciated. Sui-Feng was a lot more confident and sure of herself now and it showed. She had become a different person that Yoruichi promised to familiarize herself with.
Getting off the edge of the desk she checked herself over to make sure she was presentable and went to meet with the elders.
Osamu over looked his bathyms as they terrorized a district. He needed to build his armies so he had to feed on the humans they brought him. He sat in a chair that had been brought out of the house. A bathym named Arcus brought him a woman no older than 17 years. He liked the fear that radiated off the women as it fed his dark soul. His eyes looked into hers as he paralyzed her body to where she could barely breath. Grabbing her by the neck her dragged his prey closer. The jaws of his humanoid face split to breath his rotting breath into her face. Unable to struggle the woman stared wide eyed into the jaws of death before he sucked the soul out of her. As he held her now soulless husk in her hands he began to gorge himself on her flesh. When there was nothing but the rags she was wearing left he threw the remnants from him and looked at Arcus silently commanding him to bring him more. Arcus bowed and vanished.
The demon licked the remaining blood from his lips as he once again mulled over his plan. One of his bathyms had snuck into the Shihouin Estate to look for relics from her childhood. The idea behind it was to use it to first catch a remnant of the spiritual signature she left behind on them. A person's spiritual signature as a child allowed one who used dark kido to infiltrate the dreams of their target and hopefully dream walk them to him. However, something useful had been found. The hair from the girl would allow him to transform into a mirror image of her. That way the as an imposter he could get close enough to the father to kill him. With Satoshi out of the way and posessing his soul he would have Arcus take the man's place to get close enough to the girl.
They would never see such deception coming. He would then bide his time until she led him to the Soul King or had the prophesied child. Arcus would be his eyes and ears letting him know when the girl was with child. He planned to devour the child the second it left her womb. Then he would make her suffer slowly before taking her life.
Another woman was deposited as his feet as cast his gaze on her. He fantasized that she was the illusive woman that had escaped his grasp for so long. Letting out a growl he grabbed her and violently tore into her defenseless body.
"This is the data collected by Urahara Kisuke on the bathyms from the world of the living. Apparently, they use the bodies of the the victims they devour as host and must devour other souls to continue to live. Three distinct characteristics have been found; the ability to self- multiply, regenerate, and evolve." Sui-Feng explained to Shunsui and Satoshi as they viewed the images on the projector.
"What do you mean evolve?" Satoshi asked leaning forward in his seat.
"From the way Urahara explained it, the bathyms can take on any form they wish as long as it is a creature that it has devoured." Sui-Feng answered.
"What about humans? Can they change into a human they have eaten?" Shunsui scratched the stubble growing on his face.
"We believe they have the ability but have as of yet to show it. We do know that their ability to self multiply goes for a 3 to 1 ratio. For every 3 human lives they can create 1 bathym. However they can choose not to self multiply and keep the souls and bodies they devour inside them for later use. Their level of intelligence varies from each bathym. All of their attributes are based on the number of souls they have taken which means that we have probably been dealing with just foot soldiers and the real threats are still in hiding."
"How frequent are the attacks?" Shunsui asked sounding tired.
"From what we can tell there is an influx of sightings on the night of the new moon or when the night is darkest. There have been no records of day time attacks so it is safe to assume we won't have to worry about a barrage of nonstop attacks." She said matter of factly. Satoshi set his mouth in a thin line. Although the girl had said that daytime was safe he didn't think it best to grant her request for time in the living world.
"Are the attacks organized like they're looking for something or completely random?" He asked trying to gauge his decision on what the girl's answer was.
"They are completely random. I think that whoever is sending them means to use them as a diversion or allow them to feed if not both." Sui answered.
"So if a certain person of interest was to be in the world of the living would they be able to sense it?" Satoshi asked slowly. Sui-Feng gave him a look of disbelief at his implication.
"I'm not sure but said person should stay within these walls." Sui-Feng answered after she recovered. "I don't think it's wise to use her as bait again."
"I wonder if those are your emotions talking or your deductive reasoning." Shunsui said interrupting them both before they could say anything.
"It's only common sense not to send the person you're protecting into the arms of the enemy. Especially when they don't know they're in danger." Sui-Feng growled out trying to keep her composure all the while remembering that she was talking to her superiors.
"Common sense would allow the enemy to read us. They would never suspect that Yoruichi would be in the land of the living. Unless they can sense her presence. I feel that is why she was never attacked during her exile. I don't think they could find her." Shunsui reasoned. Sui-Feng snapped her mouth shut. It made sense but they weren't seriously going to send the woman into danger again, were they?
"So we are to find out whether or not they can sense her by sending her to them." She grit out through clenched teeth.
"If they can't sense her it's a potential hiding place should things go wrong here. Besides if she decides to go visit Kisuke or anything of the sort how are you going to stop her?" Satoshi said giving the girl a look.
"This is insane." Sui-Feng breathed clenching her fist tightly. Taking deep breaths to calm herself she spoke again carefully choosing her words. "Forgive me Shihouin-dono and Sou-taicho but isn't it time that Yoruichi-sama was made aware of her predicament?"
"At some point." Shunsui answered for the Shihouin leader. "Right now I need you to follow orders. I'll leave it up to you to organize a team to observe and engage the enemy on the next new moon."
"Can I at least request that I take her when the moon is at its fullest? That way if something does go wrong we won't have to worry about being overrun by the enemy." She was met with silence.
"I think I agree with her commander." Satoshi said after a moment of silent contemplation.
"Alright captain, you may take her when the moon is full, which is in 4 days time. However this is to remain a private matter. No one is to know the true purpose of this visit." Shunsui answered.
"Make sure that Urahara Kisuke does not suspect the true reason of this visit, we all know how observant he can be. From what she told me earlier today she has already made plans to take you to the living world for a week. Isn't that right commander?" Satoshi looked to the man as he confirmed it.
"Yes she did. A week for the both of you. At first I was going to deny it but seeing as we need to know if they can sense her location I will let her go with her bodyguard who is leading said investigation. See? You can work and have fun all at once." Shunsui said with a toothy smile. Sui-Feng was not amused in the least bit. She had half the mind to attack the man for his careless attitude but refrained from doing so.
"If that is all, I think I should leave." Sui-Feng said as she bowed and walked toward the door.
There was silence between the two men after she left. Each thought about the decision made and knew that there was no other way to gather the intel they needed.
"Are you sure Uncle? I do remember you being ready to take my head off for sending Yoruichi directly towards the bathyms." Shunsui asked casting a side long glance at the older man.
"That was before I knew they were only foot soldiers." Satoshi answered with a glare. "It seems that whatever the King did weakened the demon enough that he has to send those vile things to do his dirty work. Besides, you sent them directly to a battle zone. They won't be expecting her to be there."
"Well lets hope not. It may even prove to be a safe haven if it comes down to that." Shunsui said as he patted his pockets.
"Looking for something?" Satoshi asked frowning at the man's antics.
"It seems my little Nanao-chan has struck again." Th commander sighed as he leaned back in his seat. "I have no sake."
"Drunk." Satoshi mumbled as he shook his head.
"So says the man who keeps a life threatening secret from his daughter." Shunsui grunted. "If I were you I wouldn't know what the word sober was."
"Correct me if I'm wrong but I'm pretty sure I never asked you advice for raising a child, boy." Satoshi growled.
"My, oh my, did I hit a nerve uncle?"Shunsui smirked knowing he had.
"How do I even begin to tell her? She'll have questions that I'm not sure I'll want to answer. I promised myself I'd let her be happy for as long as I could." Satoshi ran a tired hand through his hair as he stared at the now blank projector screen.
"Forgive me, but Yoruichi-san is no longer a child. I know you want to protect her but maybe it's time to let her be the adult she is. Besides, I'm sure Sui-Feng will keep her safe and if you haven't noticed there are many who would give their limbs, if not their lives to protect your daughter." Shunsui assured him. He stood up and stretched with a loud yawn. "Now if you'll excuse me, this drunk needs his nourishment."
Satoshi stayed seated for a long while after Kyoraku left. The man was right that he was trying to protect his daughter from the harsh reality that was her life. He never wanted it to be like this for her and she had so much to deal with already. His little Yoruichi had grown up so quickly. He could feel his eyes beginning to water so quickly blinked the tears away and cleared his throat. With a sigh he stood and exhaled slowly. He would tell Yoruichi before she left for her trip.
And there you have it. Just some small notes:
The little boy calling Sui-Feng; Feng-juĕyé is using what would be Feng-dono in japanese. It's just a mandarin honorific for those of you that didn't know.
Thank you again for all the wonderful reviews they are my inspiration and special thanks to MK Thrall!
That's all for now!