Chapter III
Settling into the Shiba family mansion was an interesting experience. Unused to having anyone except his father and sisters in the house, it felt weird having a maid that was responsible for picking up after him. While not as unbearable as the Kuchiki family, Ichigo knew it would take him a while to get used to being stared at with constant attention. At first, Ichigo thought it was because he was a newcomer and because he was occupying a room connected to the head family's wing of the estate. Then Ichigo thought it was because of his bright hair color. He had gotten a lot of attention back in Karakura because of his flaming locks, and then it was because he figured he looked like the head of the Shiba clan's twin. Despite dating Orihime for almost four years, he still never once thought about how attractive he looked.
The revelation to his confusion came in the form of a force of nature also known as Kukaku Shiba. Despite being physically the same as when he first met her during his assault on Soul Society to free Rukia from execution, Kukaku often acted much more immature. While she certainly had her moments of wisdom, she reminded Ichigo of a combination between Karin's gruff brashness mixed in with a hint of Yuzu's bubbly cheer and kindness. Kukaku finally revealed to him that the female staff members were not actually extremely diligent in asking him if he needed anything, but really they were looking for an excuse to get closer and speak to him.
Ichigo spent the next morning looking at himself for longer than necessary infront of the mirror trying to see what they were so interested in. Yes, Ichigo had to admit he was semi-handsome, but he couldn't get himself to see himself from a female's perspective. The look of his kimono stretching across his lean muscled chest as he would get up from his seat or his arms bulging as he stretched in the morning. And he also failed to ever see his features as he gave a soft smile to the staff whenever they helped him. He left more than one blushing servant staring as he walked away. He thought he heard the muttering about being as ass, but he couldn't think of anything he'd done to be insulted. But since she said it to herself, Ichigo saw to reason to confront her about it.
Giving up with a sigh Ichigo left the mirror behind in favor of approaching the breakfast table. Along with Kaien, Kukaku, Ganju, and his father, Ichigo was also introduced to Kaien's parents, individuals who were killed in the last timeline due to Aizen's machinations of having the Shiba clan executed under false allegations of treason. Kyoka Suigetsu was well equipped into deceiving the Central 46 about reasonable evidence of the Shiba clan conspiring to overthrow the government with the Rukongai's support. The Shiba clan has spent hundreds of years helping the Rukongai and trying to bridge the gap in classes between the citizens of the Rukongai and the noble families. In almost one night, Aizen destroyed all of their efforts and they were hunted down like animals. Not even the children were spared, the Shiba clan scattered into the deep districts never to be found again. Ichigo swore to himself that this would never happen. Even if he had to kill Aizen in broad daylight and take all the blame for the crime, he would protect his new family.
"Good morning Ichigo" came the sweet voice of Chisato Shiba. Kaien's mother held a motherly aura whenever she was surrounded by family. It didn't matter to her whether she had just met you or had known her for years, she would envelope you in a tight hug and refuse to let go unless you returned the favor. Isshin had a good laugh at Ichigo's face the night before during their introduction, she had grabbed Ichigo by the back of his neck and smashed his nose into her chest. While he was more concerned with getting air, it was only afterwards that Ichigo relized her chest size. It looked even larger than Kukaku's in the future!
Ichigo returned the greeting to look at the large feast forming on the breakfast table. Rice was topped with egg that seemed to glow in the morning light. The steamed vegetables offered the more nutritious part of the meal, while there was Ganju coming through the doors with steamed buns. Ichigo's mouth started watering at the sight. All he had to eat was hospital food for almost a week. If Ichigo wasn't already determined on stopping his clan's deaths, he certainly was now. If he was to receive this food every day in the morning Ichigo didn't care how long it took to stop his future nemeses, as long as he could keep eating this glorious food!
Ichigo sent his praises towards Ganju for helping cook the meal.
"Oh, I didn't do that much," he said acratching the back of his head. "It was mostly Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko who did the work. I just chipped in a little at the end." Ichigo honestly thought that Ganju's face looked kind of weird without the beard. Or at least, he was just so used to it that anything different was deemed unusual. Perhaps it would be easier to think of them as two different people? That way he wouldn't say something that would reveal he knew secrets they hadn't told anyone before. It would be quite awkward having to deal with Yoruichi knowing she had the ability to transform before ever meeting her. Or at least, this version of her? Wanting to scratch his head in frustration at the overly complicated thoughts of dealing with two timelines, Ichigo ignored it in favor of digging further into his meal.
"Ichigo," said Chisato, "While it is perhaps too soon, I think it is important to discuss what your role in this family will be."
Ichigo gulped at this. While Chisato and her husband had seemingly pleasant smiles on their face, Ichigo noticed Kukaku and Kaien were glancing micheviously between each other hiding grins behind their hands.
"But first we need to ask, would you like to remain as Isshin's son or would you like to be adopted by us?"
Shocked and confused by the offer that seemingly came out of nowhere Ichigo took a moment to respond, "Why are you offering to adopt me?"
"In the eyes of Soul Society, because Isshin hasn't married and you are born out of wedlock, you will be seen as a bastard. While amongst family we don't really care about that, but everyone else, the nobles mostly, they might view you negatively. In addition, you fortunately look alot like our own son Kaien so any doubt you are a Shiba will not be in question."
"I get that I might be seen as lesser from the noble families, but I never cared what others thought about me except for my family." Chisato smiled at the admission.
"Ichigo," she said, "Being adopted by us isn't just because of rumors. As the heads of the family, we can offer you greater protection."
"Protection?" He said confusedly. "Protection from what?"
Chisato's husband Daichi spoke up, "From the central 46, other nobles with nefarious intentions, it doesn't really matter who it is Ichigo. The point we are trying to make is that there are more enemies than just those waving a sword at you. If you remain known as a bastard they will take advantage of you. Please don't misunderstand, whatever you choose to do in the future, we will support you."
"Thank you," Ichigo said warmly. Without his sisters and a father and almost all of his friends who see him as a stranger, it was…nice having someone willing to support him. "Why does everyone keep mentioning central 46 as if they are something terrifying? While I don't know a lot about politics, isn't it possible for the Five Noble Families to overrule any decision made by them?" Ichigo asked. Ichigo never really needed to know about the government before because Aizen executed them all before, and afterward, the Gotei 13 was ruling in martial law against Soul Society's enemies. By the time replacements could be instated to restart the halls of central 46, there was no reason for Ichigo to interact with them.
Shunsui was doing an excellent job as the Captain Commander and he was given a Hell butterfly to travel back and forth between Soul Society and Karakura town. While they might have kicked up a small fuss that a non-registered shinigami permanently held access to the Soul Society, the reputation Ichigo had gained in the future from defeating two of the greatest threats to the balance quelled any possible resistance. And the fact that they were terrified about what he would do to them if they tried to stop him from meeting with his friends, especially since he had the ability to sneak in anyway, made that a moot point.
The only reason he used Kisuke's illegal senkaimon instead of his own was that Orihime was still human, and thus incapable of interacting with the Soul realm without the conversion process of turning matter into spirit particles. It was supposed to be a fun trip between the two of them which was, of course, ruined because he had the worst luck.
"Hmm, while it is indeed possible for the Five Noble Families to overrule them, it has to be a unanimous decision between us. While we are certainly close friends with the Shihōin, and to an extent the Kuchiki, the other two are," Chisato hesitated frowning, her eyes darkening in deep thought before continuing, "well let's just say there's some bad blood."
"If by bad blood you mean the bloody brawl you had with the Fujibayashi," Daichi snickered. Chisato smacked her husband while everyone else at the table quickly hid their own smiles at her expression. Her face flamed red in indignation.
"I did not brawl!" she shouted. "I simply couldn't tolerate that scarlet woman making passes at my innocent son." Ichigo choked seeing Kaien's own face blushing. There was no way he was letting him escape after this.
"Besides, her taking over the family was suspicious."
"I would hardly call her sick, elderly father having a heart attack being suspicious," Daichi countered. "You have disliked the girl ever since she drunkenly kissed Kaien during that party."
Kaien slammed his palms onto the table causing the dishes to clatter.
"Please, please, with all that is good and holy, stop. That was an accident! She tripped when her heel broke, I just rushed to catch her and well, she was drunk," Kaien finished lamely. Ichigo had a golden opportunity here. It was like the heavens were shining on him in recompense for sending him to the past.
"Are you sure you just don't want to give Isshin a chance to reveal your date with Miyako to Chisato?" Ichigo smirked at Kaien. Kaien's head snapped at Ichigo in betrayal. Kukaku finally lost it. All the expressions throughout the meal had added up and she could no longer hold in her mirth.
"Hahahahaaa," Kukaku cried into the seating pillow. Servants came in to clean up the table after breakfast was finished, filled with boisterous laughs and arguments at Kaien's innocents being lost as Isshin just sat back silently during the whole meal. A grin fastened on his face as he observed Ichigo setteling into the Shiba's abnormal family dynamics.
As Kaien left to fulfill his duty as a shinigami and Kukaku and Ganju left to experiment with fireworks, Ichigo stayed at the table thinking over his decision for the future. To be adopted and give up his Kurosaki name, his mother's family name, or stay a bastard and face countless insults and possible obstacles all for a sense of pride. It was an obvious decision to anyone. It should be an easy decision, but it wasn't. It was one of the only links he still had to his mother. While his father might have taken on the Kurosaki name to better hide from the Soul Society in the distant future for abandoning his post, Ichigo had lived with that name his whole life. Kurosaki Ichigo was his very identity. Can he really just give it up? Take the easy route?
Ichigo had always forged his own path, not caring for any opinion that conflicted with his desires. To some it was admirable, his stubbornness to never give up or back down. To others, it was pure foolishness. To fight for no other reason than it was inconvenient to choose one or the other paths available. But Ichigo also knew he couldn't afford to make too many waves right now. Not only was he powerless, he also didn't want to draw anymore attention towards himself in fear that he destroyed the future timeline. What if he was never born?
"Damn it!" Ichigo thought. "There is too many variables, too many unknowns. What if's are useless right now." Steeling his resolve he turned to the waiting parents who had hopeful looks across their features. He had made his decision.
Drawing in a deep breath, Ichigo silently went through form after form swinging his sword to regain his lost muscle. Along with shrinking a few inches with his deaging, much of his muscle definition had been lost in his undesired trip to the past. Exhaling as his sword stabbed through a mirage of a certain female quincy, before transitioning into a swing decapitating another mirage of As Noct, into another of Aizen, then another of Juha Bach, Grand Fisher, Ulquiorra Cifer, Nnoitra Gilga, hell form of Szayelaporro Granz, Kokutō, the bounts, countless hollows, every swing got faster with each slayed mirage.
Like a man possessed Ichigo swung, and swung, and swung his sword until his hand blistered and bled, all the while observing the spark inside himself. Trying his best to stoke it into the mighty conflageration it once was instead of the embers he currently held. Pathetic, pathetic, pathetic. He was weak! How was he going to protect anyone if he couldn't even protect himself? The spark seemed to burn hotter in his mind's grasp. Carefully he drew it out of his center up towards his wrists and then further into his sword. Faint flickering dark blue reiryoku shrouded his blade as he continued his forms beaten into him by Shunsui.
Swing, slash, stab, dodge, parry, elbow, slash, sweep the feet, stab. As Ichigo practiced he felt as if someone's gaze was on his back. Slightly pivoting on his foot to scan the courtyard, Ichigo continued with his routine to not give away his awareness. Ichigo counted three observers. One was well hidden in a tree off to the left, another sloppily hiding behind a bush, and the last was laying on the roof hiding almost imperceptibly behind the large structural beam. The closest was in the bush. If they were enemies going to attack
Despite lacking almost all of his reiryoku, Ichigo still had the instincts of a warrior, forged through his trials on the battlefield. Ichigo brought his kindling power to his legs. Stopping his workout slowly Ichigo lowered his sword to the side.
"Come on out," he called to the seemingly empty courtyard. "I know you're there." There was no answer for a minute as tension rose into the formerly tranquil yard. The bush shifted as two dainty rose in the air before a young maid came out of the shrubbery looking a mix between sheepish and scared.
"I'm sorry Shiba-sama," her voice small as she hunched over clasping her hands together before bowing low in apology. "I didn't mean to disturb your training. I was entranced- I mean your movements were beautiful- wait I…"
"Stop," Ichigo's baritone command shut her mouth quickly. Seeing her fearful face Ichigo took a moment to breath. The other two hadn't moved. Were they also part of the family's staff? No. The one on the roof felt familiar, but Ichigo couldn't place it because it was so muted. Ichigo's skills in sensing reiatsu was almost non-existent because he struggled so hard through trying to sense others through his own raging ocean of reiatsu that acted as a barrier before, but now he had a chance to sense the world through his budding power, it was kind of startling. Whoever was hiding on the roof was skilled. Ichigo thought the only reason he sensed it at all was because it was supposed to be someone he knew. Sighing, Ichigo left that alone for now in turn of focussing his attention on the maid anxiously waiting for him.
"I'm not mad, but why are you out here watching me?"
Gathering her nerve, the maid stood up straight before declaring, "Your mother assigned me to you as your companion last night!"
"What?" Ichigo looked at her dumbly.
"Shiba-sama asked me to look after you. I am to be by your side starting from this day onward to assist you in any task to the upmost perfection," her chipper voice echoed through the courtyard, though to Ichigo it sounded more like alarm bells bouncing through his skull.
"That isn't necessary," Ichigo denied resolutely. "I can take care of myself."
"I'm sorry, but that isn't your decision to make," she replied.
"Like hell it isn't!" he snapped back. "I don't need a babysitter!"
"Shiba-sama please, I implore you to stop being so unreasonable. Your mother made the decision and I must follow her orders. If you don't want me as your aide, you must take the issue to her."
"Fine, I'll go see her now."
"I'm afraid that's impossible," she maintained that cheerful tone. Ichigo was starting to think she was enjoying this situation.
"Why?" Ichigo asked dryly.
"Your parents headed to the registration office of Central 46 to inform them about you. Indeed, it was such a tragic story to hear about how you were born during their sabattical 19 years ago but fell sick, and only now with the combined efforts of Captains Unohana and Hikifune were able to synthesize a cure. It was only now that you are healthy do your parents feel safe to announce you to the rest of the nobility. To think that you've spent the last two decades fighting for your life nearly moved me to tears," she said with a straight face. Ichigo twitched subtly at the cover story his "parents" had come up with. It was also probably the reason this maid was hired as his attendant, to sell his previous life as an "invalid."
Gritting his teeth, Ichigo said, "Thank you for your dedication. As a son of the head of the Shiba Clan I am grateful for your efforts." The words made him want to barf, but Chisato insisted he say them the night before if he was ever helped by someone of lower standing that was a great help. While Ichigo was an independent person by nature, he would put up with this farce for now. Only until he gets his powers back. Then no matter what reason Chisato could give, he was dropping the maid on her ass for this humiliation.
Looking at the pint sized maid Ichigo sighed at his misfortune.
"Shiba-sama?" The maid asked.
"What?"
"May I look at your hands?" Glancing down Ichigo saw how they were swelling and several of his blisters popped in his overexertion. He had been out there for hours slaying his imagined foes trying to relieve all the stress that had been building from his time travel. Cradling one of his large hands into her own, her right hand started glowing a pleasant green showing her skill in Kaidō- the healing arts of kidō.
"You're a shinigami?" Ichigo asked in slight surprise. She shook her head.
"My brother joined the Gotei 13 a few years back. He tought me some tricks of his. I don't want to spend my whole life dedicating myself to the military. Your mother met my own many years ago. Shiba-sama saved her life, and in return, it is my duty to serve until she says otherwise." She sounded almost reverent when speaking about his "mother." Ichigo stared at the maid for a moment in thought.
"Ichigo. Call me Ichigo, not Shiba-sama."
"I'm afraid I can't do that Shiba-sama," her voice was cheerful again as she switched to the other hand to finish healing. "It would be improper of me to speak to someone above my station by only his given name in such a manner."
"There are almost a dozen Shibas in this estate at all times, how am I supposed to know who you're talking about?"
"I will be looking at you as you are my primary concern."
"Call me Ichigo. That's an order."
"I can not." Ichigo sighed at her response.
"How about a compromise," Ichigo proposed. She tilted her head in askance. "In public you can call me that, but at home you call me Ichigo. Do we have a deal?"
She bowed her head in thought for a moment before looking up with a teasing grin, "As you wish," she said, "Ichigo-sama."
He twitched.
"Cheeky brat," he grumbled. Well if he was stuck with someone for the foreseeable future, at least they had a sense of humor. It would also probably be a good idea to know her name.
"Shiba Ichigo," he greeted formerly. "What is the name of the person who will serving me?"
"Watanabe Misaka. I'm pleased to meet your acquaintance Shiba-sama."
"I thought we just agreed for you to call me by my name?" He said with a smile. She giggled quietly at that before nodding. "As you wish Ichigo-sama," she repeated.
"Well I need a shower," he announced.
"Shower?" Watanabe repeated in confusion. Ichigo jerked in relization. Showers hadn't been invented yet. Trying to downplay his slip up he said, "Um. A bath. I need to bathe."
"Ah," she said. "Yes, you smell Ichigo-sama."
Ichigo's eyebrow twitched. This brat certainly had a way with words. He idly wondered how other nobles would react as he walked through the halls towards the bathroom. Grabbing a towel from the closet he stripped his clothes off at the door before filling a bucket with water to rinse the sweat and grime off his body before entering the large tub. Sinking into the warm water Ichigo allowed himself to at last relax his tensed muscles. Throughout his entire conversation with Watanabe he was tracking the other two observers. It was only once he had entered the house that they disappeared from his senses.
While adding scented soap into the water Ichigo thought about what he should do. In order to better gain the trust of the Gotei 13, he would have to enter the same academy that Rukia had told him about, Shin'ō Academy. The academy that every member of the Gotei 13, Onmitsukido, and Kido Corps graduates from before selecting their choice. But after graduating, Ichigo honestly didn't know what to do; it was like leaving high school all over again. Deciding to worry about it later, his attention was brought towards the door as a quiet knock sounded before entering before he could get out a word. It was Mikasa who entered with a resolute expression on her face.
"Oh shit," Ichigo thought. "This means trouble."
Calling out to her, Ichigo shouted, "Watanabe what are you doing?"
"I'm sorry Ichigo-sama, I'm fulfilling part of my duties. I have been instructed to help you in all your tasks around the manor."
"Not in this! Leave me alone" Ichigo grabbed his towel and covered himself whilst still in the tub.
"It seems you have soaked your towel Ichigo-sama, I shall fetch you a new one," she sighed at him reproachfully like he was a child. She burst in on him bathing and somehow it's his fault for doing the decent thing by covering himself? And what the hell did she mean this was part of her duties?
"Get out," he screeched chucking the nearest thing he had on hand at her head…which happened to be the wet towel. Peeling the cloth off her face she looked shocked at the piece before looking back at Ichigo huddeling behind the walls of the tub. Turning on her heel and grumbling about difficult children Watanabe left out of the room to get more towels.
"Well now, that was certainly entertaining," sounded a male voice right behind Ichigo in the tub. Ichigo snapped his head at the sudden presence. A black cat was soaking itself on the ledge on the side of the tub's wall.
"Yoruichi!" Ichigo choked.
"Oh you know who I am in this form? That's a surprise. It's supposed to be a secret kept only amongst our closest friends and family members. After all, it is a very effective form of stealth. No one ever suspects a cat as being capable of listening in on top secret meeting between nobles or criminals," she said carefully. It was as much of a question as a demand for more information, something Ichigo was all too willing to give to someone he trusted with his life.
"When I went to get Rukia back, you came with me and some friends of mine as a cat. It was only when I needed to learn Kisuke's method of learning Bankai that you transformed in front of me."
"I transformed…in front of you?"
"Yes?" Ichigo said in confusion.
"I got naked…in front of you?" She changed her question. Ichigo blushed as bright as the other meaning of his name, a strawberry.
"Yeah."
"Ohhhh," she doubted, "prove it. Tell me something that only someone who had seen me naked would know."
Ichigo snapped his head away in embarrassment.
"I never saw anything," he stuttered. "I looked away before I could see."
"We both know that's a lie. Your face is way too red for someone innocent Ichigo." If it was possible Ichigo's face turned an even brighter hue.
"I-I-I…" He couldn't get himself to speak to his former sensei. Yoruichi let out a loud laugh at his expression. She would definitely tease him more if this was how he reacted to a little teasing.
"It's fine. If you knew about my transformation ability, I trusted you enough to reveal my body to you. It means I knew you wouldn't take advantage of me."
"There were so many things wrong with that statement," Ichigo thought. "It was a fact that there were less than ten people who actually stood a chance of defeating her in a fight; all of which were, if not morally good people, were at least not willing to perform any indecent acts on her. She's destroy anyone stupid enough to try to take advantage of her. But what was really bothering Ichigo was the fact that she was currently a cat. A baritone, male sounding cat saying someone might be willing to take advantage of…it? Him? Her? Whatever she classified herself as whilst being a cat. It made Ichigo cringe at the words.
As Yoruichi turned around and shifted onto her hunches to leave the tub, Ichigo said, "There's a scar on the side of your left breast." That stopped her cold. "It was small, almost the size of a dagger. It was located between your 3rd and 4th rib right next to your heart."
Turning around to face Ichigo she narrowed her eyes judging his worth. Tilting her head to the side she thought a moment before revealing the story behind the mark.
"My father gave that to me the day I first beat him in a purely hakuda match."
"Sore loser?" Ichigo rose an eyebrow. She huffed before saying, "No, it was a lesson. I gloated my victory that I was better than my father, and he wanted to reveal that there is always a way to defeat your opponent. He challenged me to another match, and while I may have been better at hand to hand combat than him, it did not mean he couldn't kill me with a knife. He stopped just short of my heart and told be that I still had much to learn of the world before I could become the Empress of the Onmitsukido."
"A bit harsh isn't it?"
"But it was effective. I learned never to underestimate an opponent even if I seemingly outclass them in everyway, there is still the chance they have a hidden ace or plan that could end in my death. But speaking of underestimating others, I never took you to be a peaker," she teased him knowing about her scar. "We must have grown quite close in the future."
"Yeah," Ichigo's scowl dropped from her teasing at her last statement, turning into a soft smile instead. His eyes warmed at the reminder of their adventures fighting enemies side by side in the Soul King's Realm. Seeing the softening features Yoruichi grew a cheshire grin. Her devious mind had an epiphany as she launched herself towards ichigo transforming in a flash to land in his arms. He squawked in surprise of her weight landing on his lap, covered only my his hands, and wrapped her dark skinned arms around his neck. Her golden gaze still slitted like her cat form as she leaned in to whisper in his ear. His face broiled feeling her breasts rub against his chest.
"Got you."
The door happened to burst open as Misaka reentered the bathroom with a stack of towels and a tray of rubbing salts and oils to prepare him for the rest of the day. He would be introduced to allies of the Shiba Clan in the coming days in several parties as they show off their "hidden son."
"Shihōin-sama?" Watanabe squeaked, seeing the two entwined together. "What are you doing with Ichigo-sama?" Yoruichi smirked at the servant girl.
"I was just getting to know Kukaku's little brother. He gets so flustered at the smallest things. His face just turns the perfect shade of red that I just had to see how far it could go." Patting his head like child who'd done an excellent job in pride, "That's my little Strawberry."
Ichigo couldn't even punch her in his indignation because she was sitting on his hands and crotch. If he tried to move, there was a great chance of her rubbing against him and also revealing himself to the females in the room. Forced to bear with her treatment, Yoruichi slowly stood sliding her soft hands up his chest, baring herself to him. Turning away so quickly his neck cracked and echoed through the room, Ichigo prayed she was done teasing him, but much to his horror she trailed her hand across his shoulders before grabbing his chin. Tilting his head into her gaze, her mischievous eyes glowed with mirth as she exited the tub to grab a towel as she walked away. Ichigo followed a trail of water as it cascaded down her shoulder blade before running over her swells and curves. Seeing his gaze was still on her Yoruichi offered a wink before exiting out the room to change.
"Fuck," he whispered. "She's going to kill me." A small hand smacked the top of his head-very hard.
"Ow, what the Hell?" Another smack landed on his head in the same place. "OW!"
"Don't curse, Shiba-sama!" Mikasa lectured bringing her fists to her waist.
"I thought I was your master. Why are you hitting me?"
"In addition to being your aide, Chisato-sama hired me to act as a tudor on the days she or her husband could not attend your lessons."
"You didn't think to mention that before?" Ichigo shouted.
"I apologize Ichigo-sama, I was more worried about your wounds that I forgot to mention my other tasks. I swear that acting as your aide is my primary duty whilst serving you. As I said, my tudoring is only on days your parents can not do so themselves."
Tudoring. Ichigo learned after he accepted to legally be known as part of the main branch of the Shiba Clan that he was required to learn all the required information and customs that would entail as part of one of the Five Great Noble Families. While the Shiba Clan preferred to relax amongst family and the citizens of the Rukongai, they still had to uphold appearances amongst the other noble families. They had many duties that was hidden from the rest of the Soul Society except for the highest echelon. What they didn't tell anyone was the real reason they were so close to the Rukongai citizens, and it wasn't just because they were decent people who didn't care about social classes. While they didn't say anything about what those duties are, that would come later, whether because they didn't trust him enough yet or because he didn't have enough knowledge to know was debatable, but Ichigo was told he'd learn eventually.
Mikasa worked quickly but professionally as she helped scrub his entire body until he was raw. While Ichigo was slightly mortified at having a woman, other than Orihime, touch all over his body, it was made easier at how little she reacted to anything she saw. Wincing slightly when she pressed too hard, Ichigo thought it best to let his mind wander to escape the situation and pain.
Once finished and clean to Mikasa's perfection, Ichigo at last was able to change and make his way back into his rooms for a while to rest. He sent Mikasa to flag down another servant for lunch to be brought to his room as he sat down in the backyard veranda connected. Once he was comfortable Ichigo looked back inside himself to feel his reiryoka. Creating tendrils of power Ichigo spent the next few minutes practically playing at the ease he could control his power. When he first was learning to master his reiatsu while practicing with the Reishūkaku it felt like he was trying to squeeze an ocean's worth of energy through a fire hose. It was either rushing out quickly or not at all, and at the time having not been formally taught, he had lacked the necessary knowledge of shaping and using his reiryoka efficiently.
Putting Hachi's and Tessai's lessons to good use, Ichigo marveled at how simple it was to do the same tasks he had struggled to do only a couple years before. Sending his energy to his hand Ichigo watched as a blue ball floated in the air. Deciding to have a bit of fun, Ichigo wanted to experiment with his powers as he commanded the orb to start spinning like a basketball player would a ball on their finger. Faster and faster Ichigo played with the ball before tossing it between his hands. Then he tried changing the shape of the ball, first stretching it into an ovaloid, then a cube, and finally taking a greater use of concentration Ichigo formed a five pointed star. The extra detail almost resulted in holes forming in the energy but, putting his bull headed determination to not fail, Ichigo succeeded. After letting out a laugh of delight at his accomplishment Ichigo put the other half of his heritage into practice. Using his firm hold of the energy Ichigo used his Quincy powers to absorb the energy back into his body.
Quiet clapping drew his attention towards Mikasa who had been watching his display with interest.
"Well done Ichigo-sama," she said with a bright smile.
Ichigo honestly didn't know what to think about his aide. She seemed to switch between acting like a cheerful or timid person who followed orders diligently, into someone with a large backbone who approached problems with such intensity she ignored any protest he could make.
"Your food has arrived. I asked the chef to prepare slightly less food because I received word from Kukaku-sama that she is having tea with Shiōin-sama in the living room. It would be impolite to keep them waiting," she finished.
Ichigo couldn't care less about being impolite to the woman who invaded his bath and jumped on top of him naked as a joke, but he also didn't want to create a hassle with Mikasa. Ichigo knew it would probably end up with him being the butt end of several jokes, but… Ichigo was curious to get to know these younger versions of his friends and family. Even if it came at the expense of his own misfortune, he was willing to bare the pain on favor of spending time with them. His friends were always worth any pain he had to receive. He only hoped they would come to see him as he does.
Quickly shoveling the food down his throat Ichigo made his way down the halls intending on joining his sister and friend however, a cry of pain echoed from outside a passing window. Glancing to see what was causing the commotion Ichigo saw an older gentleman holding the wrist of a female servant on the ground with his two guards surrounding the girl. Other servants had stopped in their duties watching unable to interfere.
"You fool," the man shouted. "I scheduled a meeting to meet with my grandnephew Daichi and you're telling me he isn't even here? Why am I only being informed of this now?"
"Please sir, you're hurting me," the girl said tugging her wrist to escape. "The Lord and Lady Shiba left to file their son's records this morning. I don't know when they'll return today. "
"What? That idiot boy left on such a menial task? Why didn't he just wait until after we met?"
"I don't know sir, but please let go of me," she cried.
"Shut up!" He raised his hand to smack her in the face, but the moment his hand started falling down, his shoulder jerked in protest. Appearing suddenly between the guards was Ichigo clenching the noble's wrist in an ironic turn of fate. Frowning at the man Ichigo said, "That's enough. There is no need for violence. She hasn't done anything wrong. Now do as she asked, and let go!" Ichigo stated firmly.
"How dare you! Guards show him his place," The man commanded. Ichigo sighed at how quickly things were escalating.
"I'm sure we can solve things peacefully. I have no desire to fight you or your men." The guards ignored him swinging a fist towards Ichgio. Easily dodging the blow by stepping to the side Ichigo hardened his gaze.
"This is your last warning. Leave these grounds or you'll end up in a world of hurt."
Scoffing the noble commanded his guards to continue. From the left one guard's bulkier frame came barreling over with a meaty fist flying for his ribs. Grasping his overextended arm Ichigo spun and threw him over his shoulder and then jumped back to avoid the other guards fast knife hand striking for his neck.
"This guy actually knows what he's doing," Ichigo thought. "The other guy's all brawn and no brains."
Focusing on the quick strikes that seemed to snake at odd angles Ichigo took a few blows to his arms before counterattacking with a palm strike to the guards sternum. Wheezing at the loss of air, Ichigo followed through with a punch to cheekbone and then a blow to the ear. The ear is an often overlooked target. It is easy to be disoriented by both the pain and also loss of balance. The brute got up and unsheathed his sword before once more charging forward.
"This is slightly more complicated," Ichigo thought. He didn't want to reveal his abilities to soon to the public, especially since he hadn't even entered the academy yet. Deciding discretion was the better option, Ichigo drew in a slight amount of reishi from the air and channeled it into the palm of his hand. Blut Vene, the ability he inherited from his mother that he had always been instinctively using in his fights. It kept him alive against vastly superior opponents in skill, experience, and power. The dim glowing veins went unseen as he waited for the right moment to deflect the brutes sword. Switching to the offensive form Blut Arterie, Ichigo punched the guards nose with a loud crack sounding through the yard. Howling as he fell back from the force of the punch and pain the guard glared at Ichigo with murder in his eyes.
"You piece of trash," the guard growled. Ichigo's normally warm brown eyes were staring at him coldly with an impassive expression. The quiet foot steps of the other guard sounded at the same moment as the surrounding servants gave a cry of warning. Turning his head over his shoulder Ichigo observed the other guard. He had a lean frame and a small amount of reiatsu. About the level of an unseated officer in terms of quantity, but Ichigo could tell that he used what he had effectively. His footsteps were muted slightly by a cushion of reishi, much like when standing in the air by creating a platform of reishi under their feet. He was trained, most likely he had received a job after graduating the academy as a guard to earn a better living.
The pay for unseated officers is pretty shit. While living expenses are taken care of by living in the barracks, they still had to pay for their own food, and they didn't have much money to play around with. A few nights of partying in bars would leave them broke.
Pivoting on his toes Ichigo continued fighting hand to hand with the smaller guard. Luckily he hadn't drawn his sword. Ichigo didn't think he would be capable of defeating him without drawing his own at his current level of strength, or without showing something he shouldn't. Allowing a blow to hit his side Ichigo moved with the blow to regain space before changing the flow of the fight. Speeding up he dodged another fist aiming for his face and placed one hand gripping the guards forearm and sent a palm strike to the joint. Another snap sounded causing the servants watching the fight in concern to flinch. The guard admirably didn't scream at the pain no doubt coursing though his arm. With a large grunt he sent a kick at Ichigo who only had to lean back a bit before sweeping the guard off his other foot. Landing on his back Ichigo stomped down on his stomach and then sent a kick to his face giving the second guard a matching broken nose. Turning his back to the downed guards Ichigo assessed the noble's shocked face at his guards having so easily been defeated.
"W-who are you?" He stuttered.
"Shiba Ichigo," his voice reflected his cold gaze. Flinching at both his gaze and name, the noble drew upon an unseen location for courage and puffed up his chest.
"So you're Daichi's bastard, huh?"
"Oh?" Ichigo questioned.
"Of course. The only reason you would be unknown to us is because Daichi was ashamed of having you! The only reason he's taken you into his family is because you have a small skill in fighting." Ichigo blinked at how he seemed to making up facts to reach that conclusion. He believed Ichigo was only accepted because he was an asset. A piece to be moved for their own advantage. Ichigo hated being thought of as a pawn. He had spent enough of his life fighting between two geniuses and used to slay the soul king without his consent. The feeling of his body moving on its own without his control as he bisected the king still had Ichigo sometimes sweating at night. Ichigo allowed the man to stick to his beliefs, they only further confused the populace of his background. Any irregularities would be seen as a cover up for his "bastard" status to Daichi. While it might be seen as the same issue as with Isshin, no one would be willing to step on the Shiba head's toes over a understood that Isshin is bound to the Gotei 13, while physically he is powerful and his rank is prestigious, politically he can't do anything to interfere with the noble families. Daichi on the other hand, would economically and systematically destroy anyone who would wish harm on a member of his family. But there was something that held his greater attention.
"What did you mean by "us" earlier?" If anything the man seemed affronted that Ichigo didn't know.
"I am a member of the Elder Council for the Shiba Clan," he said as if he didn't flip Ichigo's entire world. There were Shibas like this asshole?
"Genzou Shiba," he introduced himself with a small tilt of his head. Ichigo ignored him in favor of walking towards the downed servant and knelt at her side.
"Are you alright?" Ichigo asked.
Looking up at her savior she only nodded her head. Dressed in a deep navy blue Kimono and his orange locks providing a shocking contrast, the maid looked into his warm chocolate brown eyes checking her over in concern. While taking a closer look at the girl to see if she was hiding any other injuries Ichigo realized she was the one who had made his bed the previous night.
"Can you walk?" Another nod of the head was his answer as he grasped the other wrist than the one Genzou was crushing and pulled her to her feet. The suddenness had her falling into his arms as he awkwardly held her. Blushing bright red she stayed still for a while before backing away. She bowed low before leaving as quickly as she could to escape Genzou's gaze who had been stewing in aggravation at being ignored in favor of tending to the needs of a servant. She received knowing glances from the other servants as she passed which only hastened her pace to return to her duties. Many of the servants left with her now that the hostilities seemed to have settled, but some remained in favor of watching what came next.
"Well it seems I will return tomorrow. Daichi isn't here so this entire trip was meaningless. You owe me new guards boy!"
"I owe you nothing. I only defended myself from guards who attacked me. Now get lost." Ichigo complained. This was way too big of a hassle to deal with.
"Show me some respect," he demanded.
"Fine," Ichigo mock conceded with a grin, "Why don't you respectfully get lost?" Snickering could be heard coming from behind Ichigo as the elder gave a mighty huff and decided to cut his losses leaving his defeated guards in a bloody heap who were left groaning in pain on the ground. Ichigo almost felt bad for a moment, they were only following the old geezer's orders, but he quickly dismissed the thought. That brute hid try to kill him with his sword after all. The snickering was coming from the form of his sister Kukaku who was getting caught up on the situation from Mikasa.
"First Mikasa, then Yoruichi, and now the other servants, maa-maa Ichigo-kun, if I didn't know any better I would think you were a womanizer," Kukaku's teasing tone sounded across the yard. Ichigo stiffened. He did not want rumors of him being some kind of playboy to spread. He was a good man damnit! Trying his best to nip that in the bud he shouted, "What are you talking about? I just was helping her get away from that old geezer." Kukaku snickered again at the insult given to Genzou.
"I'm sure you were. So our little Akeno-chan wasn't swooning in your arms just a moment ago?"
"Akeno?" Ichigo mumbled the name of the servant. "I didn't do anything!" He defended.
"You really need to lighten up Ichigo,"Kukaku said with a smile. "I'm only teasing you. That frown seems to be stuck on your face, and as your elder sister, it is my duty to remove it!" She declared with a smile that split her face. Ichigo looked at her in disbelief at the incredibly stupid proclamation.
"Well done Ichigo," Kukaku said quietly as she wrapped him into a hug. "Genzou has needed to be taken down a peg or twelve for a while now. But you need to be careful Ichigo. While alone he isn't much of a threat if he gets the support of the other elders they can make your life hell."
"I guess that means all I have to do is impress the others then, right?" He asked with a smirk. A punch to his arm and a huff were sent his way. But Ichigo didn't miss the smile before she turned her head away.
"Come on," she said, "We were having tea before your fighting distracted us." Kukaku led the way to the living room and sat down on one of the large leather couches. Following her example Ichigo sat down beside her and it felt like sinking into a marshmallow. Yoruichi was lounging on the other couch stretched out in reminiscence of her cat form. A new pot of tea was brought out and after being served the room fell silent. Yoruichi rose in her seat and adopted a serious face.
"Ichigo, have you given any thought to what you wish to do after Shinō Academy?"
"Um- well, I guess I'll join the Gotei 13, but I really don't want to be in the spotlight." Ichigo feared his name spreading and any action he takes could erase his future self being born. All it will take is one large misstep and it's over. Aizen or Juha Bach will win.
"Then how about joining my division?"
"Yoruichi no!" Kukaku growled.
"It's his decision and he can change his mind at any point. No red tape, but I can't promise there won't be questions should you wish to leave. Security risks have to be taken care of. Should there be another reason outside of you not being able to stand the work required as a member of the Onmitsukidō and willingly leaving, I need to know."
"Why?" Ichigo asked.
"Why what?" Yoruichi said tilting her head to the side.
"Why are you asking me? I haven't even started the academy, much less shown you my skills."
"I was watching you practice earlier and I also saw you manhandle those pieces of garbage earlier. Defeating them both with pure hakuda. It was slightly impressive for someone with almost no reiatsu."
"I don't really have an answer to give you right now. Can you wait?"
"You have until a few weeks before graduation to make that choice. Which I suspect won't be long."
Ichigo looked at her with gratitude. Ichigo had heard the rumors of the Onmitsukidō, about how they leave their men behind to complete the mission. If someone is ever captured, it is up to them to escape. That went against almost everything he believed in. The words he spoke to Rukia when he first picked up the sword rang through his mind, "Are you any different!? You sacrificed yourself to save me that time! At that time, were you thinking about complicated stuff like "this is my Shinigami duty"!? That's not what sacrificing yourself is! At the very least, I'm different! I haven't accepted any commitment. If things get bad, I might run away, since I'm not a good enough person to be able to sacrifice my life for total strangers. But, unfortunately, I'm also not trash that can live happily without paying back his debts!"
After his mother Misaki died he had sworn on her grave to protect his little sisters. Family meant everything to him. However it also needed to be said that over the course of his life fighting as a shinigami he changed as a person. He had the power to protect more than just his family. Does joining the Onmitsukidō really go against his core though? They did the work that no one wanted to do. They act like scalpals in the darkness cutting away the infected flesh of Soul Society, so that the rest can thrive.
Then the words he said to Ishida popped into his head, "I'm not superman, so I can't say anything big like I'll protect everyone on earth. I'm not a modest guy who will say it's enough if I can protect as many people as my two hands can handle either. I want to protect a mountain-load of people." That's right. Perhaps that's where he changed for the first time. The amount of his people he wanted to protect the stronger he got. The Onmitsukidō are information gatherers, if he joined them he would be informed about Aizen's schemes and anything the Wanderreich had planned. Closing his eyes Ichigo debated what to do. What was the best way to protect his future and current family? Clenching his hair Ichigo growled at how complicated this was. He sighed. He would think about her offer after he started school. After telling Yoruichi his decision, she nodded and the serious atmosphere drained away.
"Well now that the annoying stuff has been taken care of, we can talk about the really important things." Kukaku said letting out a dark bloodthirsty smile. Ichigo was reminded of a shark hunting down its bleeding prey. "Did you enjoy Mikasa-chan entering your bath?"
"It was you?" He shouted incredulously. "Her damn hands felt like knives using that damn rubbing salt!"
"Rubbing salt?" Kukaku asked. "I just told her to bring in some towels to scare you." Everyone looked over to Mikasa who had slightly pink cheeks. With a simple cough to hide her expression, she turned her head to the side to ignore the shocked gazes. Yoruichi started cackling before grabbing Mikasa's shoulders and pulled her beside her on the couch.
"Shihōin-sama, it is improper for a servant to sit beside her Lord," she said trying to escape. Yoruichi's hands felt like steel vices clamping on her shoulders. Gulping in fear at what they had planned, she prayed to the Soul King for mercy.
"So Mikasa-chan," Yoruichi started sultrily. "After I left, was Ichigo hiding anything from you?" Her hands tightened around her shoulders.
"Yes," she gasped out in fear.
"Was it something–hard?" She nodded frantically saying, "yes."
"Don't answer her!" Ichigo shouted his face lit up like a neon sigh. He was struggling mightily to get out of Kukaku's arms who had shifted into some kind of ancient wrestling move. The back of Kukaku's was tightened around his neck.
"Was it something–long?" Another frantic nod had Yoruichi laughing. "Did you enjoy it?" Her whisper sounded through the room as Ichigo's face started turning blue. Her last question made Mikasa pale and hesitate, but the hands gripping her shoulders tightened one last time. "Tell me the truth Mikasa-chan," Yoruichi teased with a malicious glance. Mikasa was unable to say the words. Resigned to her fate she could only shyly nod.
"It looks like we have ourselves a couple of little pervs, Kukaku."
Ichigo's silent denials went unseen as the smirked at each other.
"The only question that remains," Yoruichi said, "is do we punish Mikasa who entered the bath, or Ichigo who refused to throw her out."
"How about both?" Kukaku asked. Ichigo finally got enough leverage to remove her leg from his throat.
"You're a bunch of sadists aren't you?" He coughed out finally his face returning to it's normal color.
The front door opened and Ichigo's parents entered the room. Looking out the door before it closed Ichigo saw the sun was setting on the horizon.
"Had it really been that long?" Ichigo thought.
"What's going on here?" Daichi asked in surprise at Ichigo was laying on the floor with Kukaku atop of him.
"Help!" Ichigo pleaded. "They're trying to kill me." Chisato helped him to his feet sitting with him on the couch before asking the room to explain. Kukaku quickly said, "Oh we were just punishing our dear Ichigo." Ichigo twitched violently at the falsetto of her voice. "You see we caught him ordering little Mikasa-chan into the bath with him."
"Is this true?" Chisato's hands suddenly clenched around him reminiscent to her daughter.
"No," Ichigo denied. "You got to believe me." Daichi said, "Whelp, I've got some more paperwork to take care of. I bet Genzou is going to be a pain in the ass tomorrow."
"Wait! You're leaving me?" Ichigo asked betrayed.
"I have found it best to let your mother and sister get whatever they need out of their system before approaching them. Have fun!" Left behind with demonic smiles Ichigo and Mikasa shared a look of horror before screaming out, "NOOOOOOOOO!"