Well, this is the second-to-last chapter of this series, and I'll have much more to say in the end notes, but for now, I just want to take this moment to stop and think the two people who've stuck around and remained the stalwarts of this story: RG-Guest and TheBretonBooksDragon!
TO FORGE A
BETTER TOMORROW
Chapter CV:
"The Long & Winding Road..."
The Living Realm...
Karakura City, 2034...
"Wha-? No way?!" Ichigo exclaimed, his mouth agape, looking on as a volley of missiles struck the mecha that he had just been 'piloting', slumping back in his seat, helpless as it exploded in a flash of cgi effects, followed by the words "GAME OVER" appearing on the screen.
"How...?" The orange-haired man asked himself, before pushing aside the curtain and leaning out the side of the gaming booth. "How are you so good at this?"
"Oh, really now," Ulquiorra replied effortlessly, mirroring the other man, flashing a confident smile as he met Ichigo's gaze with a smile. "You saw the same specs when choosing your Mecha."
At the same time as this was playing out, Ikumi turned her focus towards the nearby air-hockey table, where her son Ichiro and Sora Schiffer were in the middle of a heated match...
Their presence here wasn't random, nor was the location. The fact was, everyone was gathered in this game center as part of the celebration of her younger brother's sixth birthday. And amongst the guests was her first son, Kaoru- now in his early twenties- cheering on his little brother. The knowledge that her boys were living happy lives was a great comfort to the older woman, and gave her hope!
She noted as Orihime looked on with a smile as a similar yet different situation played out...
Ichiro had short spiky dark-brown hair and gray-brown eyes, and sported and intense look as he faced down Sora- the girl's jet-black hair pulled into a scrunchy in the back. Ikumi watched as her son deftly deflected the puck in a single fluid motion, sending it sailing across the table and into the gap that was his opponent's goal zone, the girl reacting with an appalled expression.
The curvy woman immediately spotted the indignant look on her face. And so, perhaps fearing than her daughter might utter something untoward, the redhead rushed over!
At the same time as this, Hideyoshi was seated at a p-v-p gaming 'station', an unflappable look on his face as he focused intently on the goings-on visible on the screen in front of him, dexterously working the joystick and buttons, his green eyes narrowing slightly as he piloted his player character in order to deliver a spectacular finishing-blow with surgical precision!
Hideyoshi exhaled softly as he allowed himself to relax a bit...
"Ah man..." The other boy protested, seemingly just about to speak further, only to be silenced upon the arrival of a heavily-tattooed and leather-clad woman!
"Yoshi-kun, you're just so cute!" Jinx had exclaimed with a big smile as she swooped in. The brown haired youth, with his sharp green eyes (and dark eyebrows), wore a resigned expression all the while as he remained caught him in her arms. "Look at you, it's like you're a... a grumpy little doll!"
Chad couldn't help give a small sigh and shake his head, still smiling in spite of this while he watched as the woman fussed over the boy. In the meantime, he was holding his four-year-old daughter Sofia in his arms... as her twin brother Mateo ran by, nearly indistinguishable amidst the other children!
Twins, he was was the father to a pair of TWINS... how was this even real?
Just the thought of this alone was insane! Both children had inherited his dark complexion, with the 'elder' Sofia possessing the same long dark wavy hair and eyes. At the same time, her 'younger' brother, Mateo, had the straight reddish-purple hair and the blue-green eyes of his mother...
"Jinx!" The swarthy broad-shouldered man, with his dark hair and eyes, called out to his partner in his usual restrained tone. "Try not to make too much of scene over Hideyoshi-kun."
Unlike the other couples that were present, Chad and Jinx weren't officially married, in spite of the fact that the unlikely duo happened to have two children between them...
In the middle of all this chaos, Tatsuki wordlessly took a drink from the beverage in her hand, smiling as the madness proceeded to play out around her. Prior to arriving at the gaming center, along with her husband and sun, the dark-haired woman had resolved to sit back and enjoy herself...
She quietly observed her son, Tatsuya, as the boy intermingled with the other kids. The ten-year-old had her dark brown eyes and the angular features and sleek dark hair of his father. She couldn't help but feel a rush of pride as she thought about her son. He was inherently intelligent and refreshingly athletic, but he'd also displayed an aptitude towards spiritual awareness and powers from an early age.
Incredibly, if not unsurprisingly, the scope of his powers was similar to those of Ichigo, what with her being a so-called 'normal' human and his father Uryu being a Quincy.
. . . ...o.o.o... . . .
The Soul Realm...
Eastern Branch Shihoin Estate...
Rukia Shihoin, seated beside her dusky-skinned husband, with his keen golden eyes, observed intently as the demonstration played out before the unlikely coupling of the petite woman and her partner in the rear courtyard. The petite woman looked resplendent, dressed up and adorned with the full regalia of the Clan she had married into. Meanwhile, a showing of martial arts played out...
Front and center, was her sixteen year old son, Yoshiro Shihoin. He possessed the dusky complexion and build that was typical of his father's lineage, as well as his wavy dark hair. Though, the young man also had inherited the same expressive violet eyes as his mother. And, far from being overly bulky, his figure was leaner and much more toned- what some might call "streamlined".
And then, of course, within various circles, he was considered to be something of a "catch". And the fact that he was the epitome of a loving, devoted son had only served to make him even more attractive to the countless high-class available women- who, it seemed, were always on the look out...
Of course, there was the additional factor that had to be taken into account, this being the reality that the Shinigami weren't under any pressure to rush off into something as serious as getting married, when considering that they had the luxury of taking their time in such matters. After all, what good was it to go blundering into something as serious and permanent as marriage, when you had the life-span to take your time in learning what you really wanted and needed in a partner?
And while it was true that Rukia and Haruki had actually bypassed (been spared?) the inherent hassle of the early fumbling stages of a modern courtship, their union was presented more as a suggestion than that of an ultimatum. And while her acceptance of the union may have initially been driven in part by a fear of loneliness, Haruki had more than proven himself as a loving and devoted partner!
Beyond the concerns of her immediate family- ie, her husband and son- there were much larger issues to contend with, such as the ever-evolving sociopolitical situation of the 'old families' and the roles they played in the future of the Seireitei and the Soul Realm as a whole...
Rukia had previously been a part of the Kuchiki, one of the four families with ties to Soul King, along with the Ukitake, the Unohana, and the Kyoraku. However, she was a part of one two families that had long been regarded as having "fallen". The other instance being that of the Shiba. And the prospective fortunes of the two families were now looking up, in light of recent events.
However, this particular line of thinking could wait, at least for the moment, as trio were alerted to the sudden arrival of a particularly high-profile visitors!
. . . ...o.o.o... . . .
Kiyoshiro Ukitake had arrived at the main entryway of the estate, where he was met by the standard reinforced doors that opened up into the front courtyard of the grounds...
The young Shinigami had a flowing main of dark-brown hair, which nicely complimented his similar dark brown eyes and pristine eyebrows, contrasting nicely with his fair complexion. In addition, he was decked out in the traditionally-styled black robes of a Soul Reaper, with a badge sporting the numeric character of the Sixth affixed to the sash tied around his waist.
It had hardly come as a surprise to most people that were properly in the know when the news came out that the young man had been formally inducted into the ranks of the Division.
Aside from this, the matched pair of the full-length katana and the shorter wakizashi that served as the dual components that made up his Zanpakuto were tucked away neatly into the layers of the hekko sash that was tied up around his waist, situated to the side- above his left hip.
Calmly, he watched- without comment- as the doors opened up, allowing him inside...
. . . ...o.o.o... . . .
Division Twelve HQ...
Szayel was preoccupied with monitoring the equipment, making sure that everything would be fully in order, in anticipation of the test that was about to play out...
Captain Soifon was situated in a chair, in the center of the room, with an array of diagnostic devices were hooked up to her and monitoring all of her vitals. In particular, her right arm was of great interest, with a related display appearing on one of the main monitors in the lab.
"Alight, we're going to start off with a series of short, controlled bursts." The pink-haired Espada and Captain announced, exchanging a quick look with the woman. "Captain Soifon, I just want to sure that you understand what exactly it is that your taking part in, and the possible risks involved..."
The slender, dark-haired woman exchanged a nod with the Arrancar. "Alright then," he began, almost reluctantly as he started up the machinery. "This isn't about triggering or activating powers, this process is intended as a means of recording and gauging the reactions to stimulus."
Ggio Vega was also present in the room, dressed in the increasingly popular inverted white and black Shinigami robes as he looked on at the scene unfolding. Soifon was in her sleeveless and backless top, her dark eyes shut as she clenched and unclenched her fist. The golden-eyes Fraccion looked on as his mate and wife tried to remain comfortable in the leather-bound chair.
"Soifon, sweetie," the cat-like Arrancar started eagerly, holding her white Captain's Haori- folded up neatly- in his arms as he looked on. "Everything's good, right?"
She gave a smile, followed by a quick nod, before returned her attention to the task at hand...
Everyone watched as her brow furrowed, focusing herself as the intricate lines of musculature of her arm began to twitch in reaction. "Captain Soifon," Szayel spoke. "Right now, focus yourself, envision the final form of your ideal Bankai," he continued. "Remember the previous evolution!"
Her arm morphed into a singer surface-to-air missile launcher, before it underwent a final change as it transformed into an imposing, sleek-black metal and composite sniper rifle- complete with an intricate scope- with the "pistole-grip" of the stock held firm in her restored hand.
"You did it, Captain!" Szayel exclaimed. "After all these years, you've finally managed to stabilize the perfected form of your Bankai!" He continued. "And, in the process of achieving this, your success has yielded definitive positive proof that Soul Weapons aren't bout to predetermined form..."
"C- Captain," Renji called out after a moment. "How do you feel right now, anything unusual?"
She smirked in response. "Not at all..." The Stealth Master replied, as she hefted up the "rifle" to bare with both of her hands. "On the contrary, In fact," Soifon went on excitedly as she exchanged glances with everyone. "Right now, what I feel... I- I'm feeling powerful!"
. . . ...o.o.o... . . .
Back in the Soul Realm...
Setting aside the matching swords that composed his Zanpakuto, Kiyoshiro took his seat on the cushion that had laid out for him, taking his place amongst his hosts as they were served tea.
"First off, I'd like to start things off by expressing my gratitude, to both of you, for your hospitality in receiving me on such short notice." He spoke as he was handed a cup. "Ah, thanks."
Rukia nodded, smiling as she blew the puff of steam from her own cup. "Please, there's really no need to be so formal around us." The female Shinigami reasoned. "While you may have been the first of the new wave of children, and the oldest, that doesn't change that I was there- to see you grow up."
"Yes, well, that is true." The brunette replied. "And the truth is, I'm very fortunate- what, considering that both of my parents just happen to be highly respected officers..."
At the same time as this was unfolding, Rukia and Haruki's son, Yoshiro, was directly in the heat of training with the Shihoin staff- evading their mock-blows with an ease of movement that bordered on downright acrobatic, deflecting their various attacks and using his hands to follow through and deliver unarmed counter-attacks. This water-like movements sending his 'attackers' to the ground!
The young Ukitake Heir smirked as the 'bout' unfolded. "To that end," Kiyoshiro continued, returning to his discussion with the parents across from him. "It's more than just fancy words, the fact is there's a practical aspect to it as well..." He paused, taking a sip of tea. "Since the end of the Winter War and the Death of the Supreme Commander, there really isn't a place for the remnants of the First Division."
"What about Lieutenant Sasakibe?" Rukia enquired, adding milk to her tea and stirring it, before she took a drink. "From what I understand, he's the last 'Hold-Out'..."
"Chojiro Sasakibe...?" Haruki spoke up, sipping from his tea. "I think I remember my aunt Yoruichi mentioning him a few times." The man recalled with a cute smirk. "Said he was 'stiff', and a 'bit too by the books' for her liking, but that he wasn't the type you could 'put out to pasture'."
"Wise words, and true." Kiyoshiro replied. "Thankfully, the Lieutenant is a gracious man, and he has accepted the position as the new Head Administrator of the Academy." The young Shinigami revealed in a cautious voice. "With this, the ghost of the First can finally be put to rest, allowing Soul Society to go forward in establishing the new institution that will be replacing it."
"I doubt you came here just to tell us this." Rukia spoke with a sly look. "So then, what really brings you to our home?" She asked coolly. "After all, I get the feeling you're after something."
"As observant as ever." Kiyoshiro quipped. "And you're right... The last thing we need is yet more of something that we already have." The visitor reasoned. "Internal security, intelligence-gathering, these are things we have in abundance..." He took another drink. "What we need right now, are diplomats, goodwill ambassadors, people respected by all parties involved."
"The reason that I mention all this, is because the prospective membership of this new Division won't be based on power or experience." He continued in a steady tone. "Instead, this means that membership will be determined by other factors- such as by means of recommendation... Meaning that the words of the old families with ties to the lineage of the Soul King will cary a lot of weight."
At that moment, Haruki leaned in close. "With all due respect," he began, his tone becoming low and deathly serious, his golden eyes narrowing. "I'd caution you and whoever else involved, that our son is the most important thing to us, and his happiness comes before family prestige or political gain."
To hear her husband utter those words, this alone was enough to give Rukia pause... It wouldn't be till later on that she would be able to put words to what she felt. The truth was that witnessing Haruki take a stand sent chills throughout her, igniting a spark of excitement within her body in the process!
Kiyoshiro regarded him for a moment, then nodded. "On the contrary, I would lose all respect for the two of you if I genuinely believed- even for an instant- that you were even willing to entertain the idea of turning over your son." The Soul Reaper responded pointedly. "My father once told me, that even if things had played out differently, he'd sooner die than turn over Lillynette and Stark."
Rukia was nearly overcome with emotion, but composed herself. "Just hearing you say that... Captain Ukitake, your father, he was a role model- not just as a Shinigami, but as a person." She replied as she looked into his eyes. "Your mother was just as good, and you take after them both."
"Myself, Meiling-san, Abarai-kun, and all the other 'children' who've been born in the years following the conclusion of the Winter War." The young noble began coolly. "While our parents would still have to fight in major conflicts, we were largely shielded from the hardships of this."
"In other words, a 'post-war' generation?" Rukia asked, refilling their cups. "Sounds familiar..."
"Thank you." Kiyoshiro murmured softly as he picked up his cup. "And, you're right, going by history, it's not as if the end of a major conflict suddenly lead to peace." He conceded. "But, even in th midst of the height of the so-called 'Cold War', diplomacy and negotiation saved lives."
He paused, taking a sip of his tea. "The thing about the recent history of the Living Realm, is that it's not without it's own lessons to be learned from." He set his cup down. "The Americans and the Soviets could have chosen a path of mutual annihilation, but their desire to live was stronger... In the same way that we and the Arrancar could have unleashed slaughter on one other, but we chose to talk."
"History is funny like that." Haruki quipped with a drink. "So then, what now? What exactly is it that brings you here?" The dusky-skinned man hastened to add. "What does the Council want?"
Kiyoshiro smiled. "Quite simply... Peacemakers."
. . . ...o.o.o... . . .
"Y'know, no matter how much I think about it," Ichigo had begun. "It's still seems insane when I stop to think about that you'd wind up as the father of twins!"
Before Chad had a chance to offer a response, Jinx had seized the initiative in the moment and wasted little time reply as she chimed in. "Well, as the proud mother in question, what can I say?" The tattooed woman went on to ask. "For starters, Chad's such a stud- what, with his genetics, and all!- that we got to have both a gorgeous princess and a handsome prince as our kids!"
Amusingly, Chad and Ichigo had blushed at the woman's sudden and abrupt declaration, though it was far more so in case of the former, who struggled with his partner and her antics as the woman appeared behind him, as the latter took in the interplay between his longtime friend and partner!
"You two, you're shameless!" Ikumi remarked as she arrived. Smiling and handing a bear to Chad and Jinx as she sat down beside Ichigo, handing him a bear and opening up her own. "But, what can I say? I mean, whatever you two have, it seems to be working pretty well you."
The four of them were seated in the den of Ichigo and Ikumi's house, the respective couples situated across from each on 'loveseat' style couched on either side of the room. At the same time, the three kids were keeping themselves occupied playing games in the living room.
"What about you guys?" Jinx enquired, taking a drink. "From the look of things, you two don't seem to be doing to bad for yourselves." She commented. "Business must be good, right?"
Ichigo nodded, tipping his can be slightly. "Things have been going well for us, ever since we invested in that moving company." He went on to relate. "Plus, it's not just people who need help in moving, but businesses as well, so we certainly don't lack for customers in this economy."
"What about the old 'Odd Jobs' business," Chad asked. "Is there still a place for that?"
"Oh, you know how it is." Ikumi chimed in as she took a drink. "These days, the work it brings in isn't quite so random as it once was..." The older woman paused to take drink. "Mostly, in practice, it's more of a staffing agency- ya know, finding the right people to fill job requests."
"A lot of the applicants we get are guys from the local college- either as regular part-timers, or short term part-timers during their summer break." Ichigo elaborated. "But enough about us, what about you guys, how are you two doing?" He asked as he took another drink. "Jinx, I read that article about you back in one of the trades, so the parlor must be doing pretty well?"
"I can't believe that interview I gave in 'Inked' got picked up!" The tattooed woman exclaimed with a smile as he took a drink from her can. "Considering how I must have come across to the average person just a few years ago," Jinx recalled with a smirk. "It's like Japan has done a 180 on tattoos!"
. . . ...o.o.o... . . .
The Living Realm...
Karakura City, 2038...
Much to the relief of both of her parents, Sora was very much above the fickle and fleeting interests of the vast majority of youths in her age group. What this meant was that rather than becoming fixated on earning the approval of her peers or fraternizing with boys, her priorities were focusing her energies on her studies and maintaining a high grade point average.
And, of course, it certainly didn't hurt that both of her parents happened to quite accomplished when it came to intellectual pursuits. Orihime, for her part, was uncommonly intelligent- which seemingly was was lost on most people, who only saw her eccentricities. And while he wasn't as wholly brilliant as his wife, Ulquiorra had rated near genius-level when it came to comprehension of linguistics and logical systems. And so, with them behind her, all signs pointed to her having a bright future!
Never the less, their son Hideyoshi was far from being a disappointment!
This was evident in the fact that, while he was still in primary school, he consistently scored in the top of his class, and the numerous ribbons dotted around their home served as a perfect reminder. The thing that set him apart from his elder sister was his more reserved nature. Unlike Sora, who was the far more outgoing of the two, he was more reserved, and unusually serious for his young age...
Ulquiorra would blame this on himself, as their daughter took more after Orihime, while he could see shades of himself in Hideyoshi. Still, it wasn't as if he lacked emotions all together, as it was obvious to anyone watching that he thrived on being fussed over- especially by his mother!
Setting all that aside for the moment, on what seemed like just another day, Ulquiorra and Orihime had both received urgent calls- from the Shinigami- that something was up with Sora...!
. . . ...o.o.o... . . .
The Kuchiki Estate...
Byakuya Kuchiki moved effortless, practically gliding across the floor. Given that he was presently in the confines of the wing of his family's expensive ancestral home that was reserved exclusively for his wife and himself, the dark-haired man felt sufficiently comfortable to lower his guard...
What this meant, in practical terms, was that the nobleman felt comfortable enough to be able to shed the usual armor of indifference and aloofness he normally clothes himself in. The reasoning behind this was the simple fact that the only other person with free reign was Kukaku!
Her name alone was sufficient in coxing a smile from the normally stoic man. Just thinking about the boisterous woman always threatened to ignite an array of feelings and stir passions within Byakuya that he otherwise would never permit himself to indulge in. She was fierce, she was wild, she was a deadly and seductive creature that had long ago gotten her claws into him!
"You seem to be in a good mood." A voice commented playfully.
He turned to the source of it. There she was, framed in the doorway, clad in a simple purple yukata. It was tied haphazardly in the front at her waist, leaving it just open enough in front to offer a tantalizing view of her cleavage, while also hanging off of her shoulders in an inviting manner...
In this case, 'inviting' in the sense that it allowed him to see the beginning of the tattoo that covered her left shoulder and forearm, though the latter part was hidden under a layer of fabric.
The fact was that women (or more precisely ladies) in her position were expected to possess pristine bodies, with pure 'unblemished' skin. The fact that a 'classy lady' like herself- to say nothing of the wife of the head of the Kuchiki Clan- sported such a blatant tattoo on her otherwise immaculate flesh would downright scandalous! But as far as he was concerned, the taboo was just more of a turn on!
In that moment, the sight her stoked something primal deep down inside of him. He didn't waist any time in appearing before her in a flash of movement, forgoing their usual pleasantries and banter as he leaned in close to capture her lips in an unusually passionate hungry kiss!
Even Kukaku wasn't fully prepared, as he drove her from the doorway, pinning her up against the wall and trapping her in place with his body as he deepened the kiss. "Shit! You really are in a good mood!" She exclaimed in a mix of shock and excitement. "Seriously, what's gotten into you?!"
As soon as she looked up into his eyes, she could tell something was different...
"The effect you have on me," he began breathlessly. "There are times, times when it's become almost too much to bare... you've awoken something in me." Byakuya went on. "This desire... I'm supposed to stronger, more disciplined... But the worst part is that I don't understand it, I don't know what it wants from me, or from you, just that it wants something... and I feel ashamed."
"Ashamed?" the buxom woman began, curious. "Ashamed of what?"
He didn't respond, instead wordlessly taking in the sight of her. "It's like there's different versions of myself, in conflict within in... The 'me' that wants to just be your husband, the 'me' that turned his back on his duty to his family." Byakuya confessed. "And then, there's the man before you..."
Kukaku closed her eyes, taking a deep breath before looking back to him. "Getting to know you, as I have, over the years, I think there's another 'you', hiding deep down inside you, and it's telling you that you don't deserve to be happy..." She paused, giving a sympathetic look. "And it seems to me, that in spite of everything you've accomplished, there's a part of you that feels like your failing to living up to the expectation- specifically, the ones you've set for yourself."
"And, on a personal level," she continued, hesitating momentarily. "You've been nothing but good to me, and an exemplary husband." Kukaku informed him. "But then, by that same token, I think part of you feels like you're not living up to the memory of Hisana." His eyes widened slightly, but her hand on his lips silenced him. "But I think she'd be proud of you, and would want you to be happy."
"Kukaku, I..." He faltered, words failing him.
The woman in question leaned in to give him a quick comforting kiss. "I want you to be happy, and I think the only way for that to be possible, is for become whole again." She reasoned as she drew back from to continue. "And I think that there might be a solution, and I might be able to help you."
"A solution... how?"
"I want to know more about you," she replied gently. "About your joy and your sorrow, your regrets and your hopes for the future." His wife remarked. "And, if the time is finally right, I'd like be a part of that future... in a way that, in my role as your wife, I can make possible."
"Kukaku?" He responded, his entire body tensing. "Do you fully understand what you're suggesting?"
"I'm talking about the two of us making a choice." She countered calmly. "I never gave much thought to having a family of my own, but... except, if it's with you, well, then that's a totally different matter." Kukaku went on with sly smile as she gazed up into his eyes. "And, the fact that our kid would happen to be the heir to some powerful family would be a completely secondary concern."efewfgwe
"Kukaku Kuchiki," he managed after a moment, even allowing himself a genuine unguarded smile as he reached out and placed his hands around her waist. "Regardless of whatever happens, I can say that you are not a woman to be taken lightly." Byakuya went on as he captured her lips in a kiss.
"How well you know me." Kukaku answered as she returned the gesture en-kind...
. . . ...o.o.o... . . .
"What the hells is going on?!" Ulquiorra exclaimed frantically over the phone line.
As soon as he'd received the call, he'd slipped out of his Gigai and rushed out of the house, all the while as the voice on the end of the line tried to explain the situation to him...
"Schiffer-san," a familiar voice spoke out, while taking over the line. "This is Toshiro." He explained to him in a cautious voice. "We're already in contact with both Kurosaki and Inoue-san, and our agents are in place- we're coordinating with Urahara-san, purely in an effort to contain things!"
"Captain," the Cuatro Espada started. "I've known you for a long time, well enough to recognize that you're trying to reassure me." The Arrancar continued as he rounded a corner, all the while as the array of emotions that he was experiencing in the moment barely restrained...
"But more importantly," the green-eyed Espada resumed coldly. "Right now, above and beyond any other considerations, what the hell is happening with my daughter?!"
The sound a the Ice Master exhaling was audible over the line. "Right then, as her father... you're well within your rights to ask." He replied. "About an hour ago, Ichiro-kun called his father, alerting him to the fact that your daughter suddenly began exhibiting 'strange powers'... He explained to Kurosaki-san that the two were studying in the high school library, when she suddenly became agitated..."
"Kurosaki relayed this information to Urahara-san, who- in turn- relayed it to us." Toshiro went on as he did his best to keep thing calm. "Now, what you have to keep in mind is that we had be sure that we had the right people on the scene first, before we reached out to you and Orihime-san."
Ulquiorra didn't respond at first. Closing hi eyes, he took a deep breath, then released it...
"...I understand."
Meanwhile...
It wasn't entirely clear what precisely had triggered the event, but the one point that all parties involved agreed on was that this was something that had to be contained and handled carefully...
For the moment, at least, Ichiro Kurosaki was frantically cycling through ideas in the hopes of landing on whatever might prove best for the situation. This was especially unusual for him, as he looked on at the sight of the dark-haired young woman standing before him. Despite not having any formal training in such matters, he could still sense that something was ver much amiss!
Sora glanced down, to her right hand as her entire body crackled with spirit energy. It was almost as if she was fully on auto-pilot, as she seemed to not even know what it was that she was looking for as she gazed intently down at her palm. Yet, more chilling, was the fact that her sclera had turned black, while her eyes were now a contrasting white... And then, an even more shocking event occurred...
In that moment, multiple things happened: first, Ichigo appeared and swept his son off of his feat an to safety; then next as Sora gained a pair of glowing wings and a circlet upon her brow!
As this was unfolding, others were already on the scene...
The pale-skinned Arrancar was intercepted by Yoruichi, along with the two Vizards- Captain Kensei Muguruma and his Lieutenant Mashiro Kuna of the Ninth Division.
"Wait, Ulquiorra," the shapeshifting noble started. "Just keep a cool head, and don't make this entire situation any more difficult than it has to be!" Yoruichi stated. "You're smarter than that!"
The Fourth Espada came to a complete stop. "Fine," he started. "Then at least tell what the hell is going in regards to my daughter." Ulquiorra conceded. "At least tell me that much..."
"Ulquiorra!" A voice he knew all too well called out to him. "Everything will be fine."
With that, Orihime swiftly appeared and took his hands in hers, the redhead looking resplendent in her glowing golden-white armor an flowing regalia. "Sora isn't in any danger, all that's happened is that her powers activated unexpectedly..." She explained. "Don't forget, that I'm human, which makes our kids half human and half Hollow, which- in other words- means they're naturally born Vizard."
With some assistance, Urahara managed to slip a bracelet onto Sora, which had the immediate effect of containing her powers and bringing her back to her senses in the process!
And just like that, the dark-haired girl regained her senses. "Huh, Urahara-san?" She asked, confused as she rapidly looked around. "Um, wait, what the heck is going on?"
"For now, just relax, Sora-chan." The former Soul Reaper remarked, smiling at her he reached up to adjust the brim of his striped hat. "A bunch of people are worried about you."
. . . ...o.o.o... . . .
The Soul Realm...
Ryusei Abarai regarded the sword that was laid out before him...
"As I'm sure you must know, this isn't just any weapon." Renji started as he took in the figure of his son as he sat in a kneeling posture before. "It might not look like all that much now, but with your prior training in the basics and what's to come, it's primed to become your Zanpakuto."
The individual in question had just turned eighteen, but he already broad-shouldered with a muscular frame, similar to that of his father. He had a long main of spiky hair flowing down his back, except that it was jet-black his mother's hair, and his eyes were deep crimson. He possessed the strong jawline and angular features of his father, except with a similar mask fragment adorning it.
"Still, don't forget that you're Half Arrancar," Arachne chimed as she knelt down beside him, giving a look as she went on "You have to be prepared that your Bankai will be more like a Resurreccion." She added as she kissed him on the cheek. "What's important is that we'll support you, regardless."
Elsewhere...
Public Recreation Area, Training Center...
Mika Matarabe Rose looked on as Meiling Vega fired off an arrow, the projectile landing dead-center on the target. The younger woman, with her dark-brown hair and blue eyes gave a look of a amazement the arrow landed perfected in the core of the straw practice target!
However, the golden-eyed dark-haired woman bore a look of indifference. "It's just not fair..."
"What do you mean?" Mika asked, confused. "I mean, look, just now- you're aim was perfect!"
"That's the problem." Meiling was quick to retort. "Why does my Zanpakuto have to be the one that turns into a bow of all things?!" She replied irately. "Why not a sword, like everyone else?"
"Well, er, your mom's is a gun," Mika responded. A- and before that, it was a giant cannon." She tried to offer the other young woman. "Honestly, try and look at it this way... Your Zanpakuto is unique, you can use it to fight silently and from a distance, and on top of that, your quiver's always full."
Meiling exhaled. "Yeah, I guess when it you put it like that, it isn't too bad."
"What are you two up to?" A new voice asked.
They both turned to behold an all too familiar figure before them. "Oh, hi, Josef." The two young ladies reacted simultaneously. "Did your Mom drop you off?" Meiling asked.
The sandy blonde-haired young man blanched at the tone and wording of the question, his aqua-marine eyes wide. "Are you saying that there's something wrong with being close with my Mother?"
"No." Mika interjected pointedly. "In fact, I happen to very close with both of my Moms!"
"Oh yeah, I sometimes forget that you're a science baby." Meiling quipped.
"No fair!" She replied pointedly, as she whirled around to face her. "Momma may have given birth to me, but that doesn't change the fact that they're both just as much my Moms."
"Woah, woah, Mika," Meiling fired back, holding her hands up. "Relax, I didn't mean for what I said to come off as such a dick things to say." She confessed. "Truth be told, the fact that you have two Moms is pretty amazing- my parents were different races, but yours overcame an even bigger hurdle!"
"I feel like I just walked into something." Ryusei spoke as he appeared. "Is something up?"
Meiling and Josef merely rolled their eyes, while Mika blushed at the sight of the newest arrival!
. . . ...o.o.o... . . .
The Living Realm...
Karakura City, Early 2040...
Ulquiorra exhaled as he looked over the contents of numerous documents...
The truth was, that over the course of the last few years, he had begun to feel the temporal effects that came with the experience of living as a human. Yet, he realized, that he was experiencing the effects of passage of time secondhand- through his Gigai- while his wife was experiencing it directly.
Rising to his feet from the table, he arched his back and extended his arms in effort to give his body a quick once-over, before moving to the kitchen, fully intending to make himself something to drink via the expresso machine. While the bubbling sounds of peculation coming from the machine serving as a backdrop, he reflected upon recent events... He couldn't help but smirk.
The truth was that as the years rolled on, the Cuatro Espada and his Human Mate found themselves becoming less involved in the affairs of the other realms. With perhaps the events surrounding the final days of the "Phoenix Dragon" being one of the few major exceptions. Even still, as time went on, their regular "visits" from the Shinigami had grown increasingly infrequent...
Not like this was really all that much of a problem, considering that Orihime and himself had far more pressing concerns in the Living Realm- chief of which, at the moment, being the fact that their daughter Sora would soon be heading off to college... a fact that left him feeling conflicted.
On the one hand, Hideyoshi would be starting his first year in Junior High, so it wasn't as if they were lacking for activity in their personal lives. And yet, while his son was just as important to him, thinking about the coming absence of his first cub stirred conflicting feelings within him. After all, as a parent, seeing their children go forth and succeed was the ultimate dream...?
Except... Sora was still very much his 'little girl'! And no matter how logical that he tried to be about it all, there was always a part of himself- in both his 'human' and Hollow sides- that desired nothing more than to be able to keep her safe and shielded, away from the darker aspects of Life!
Beyond this realization, there was the further understanding that these feelings were being driven by the human aspects of himself. For Arrancar, extraordinary and powerful females were looked upon as special beings, creatures that were meant to be feared and admired by the Hollows around them.
A short digital medley alerted him to the fact that his drink was ready...
Picking up his expresso and taking a cautious sip from it, he reflected on the fact that he- more so than his 'emotional' human wife- should be the one to have the most difficulty in such matters!
Nevertheless, with that all being said, after taking another sip from his cup, he made his way into the room that served as their den. Setting the cup aside, he checked the assembled birdcages that dominated the space of the room- which had been refurbished for their avian pets.
The reality was that while there was still two cages full of various finches, while the other community cage happened to house a pair of Diamond Doves, with the two larger peaceable birds living happily in perfect harmony with their smaller in-cage neighbors.
"Ah, yes," the dark-haired man began. "Hm, it appears that all of you are in need of a fresh change of water and food, along with cage lining." Ulquiorra commented. "You should all count yourselves lucky that I happen to care so much when it comes to your wellbeing."
With all of that now done- including fresh water and seeds, along with newspaper lining- he looked over to the remaining cage- which was tall and large. "Well then..." Ulquiorra spoke in his usual calm steady tone. "This just leaves us with your cage to deal with..."
Wordlessly, he went about opening the front door. "With all of that being said, Caesar," the Espada went on to state coolly. "I can only imagine the sort of mischief you're planning, I-"
Before he could say anymore, the very creature that he'd been addressing moved rapidly and leapt out of the cage, landing upon Ulquiorra's shoulder!
"Wagh!" The dark-haired man exclaimed, his vision momentarily obscured by a flurry of movement and white feathers. "Dammit Caesar!" He cursed aloud at the Citron Cockatoo as the bird waisted no time in settling down onto his shoulder and quickly made itself comfortable.
"I am not Orihime," Ulquiorra protested. "A- and I am not willing to indulge you as such!"
Another chime alerted him as someone arrived at the front door and let themselves in...
"Oh, I'm sorry," a voice inquired playfully. "Am I interrupting anything?"
It was at this point, as his wife appeared, that it instantly became clear to the pale-skinned, green-eyed man that any further discourse between himself and Caesar was pointless!
. . . ...o.o.o... . . .
Earlier that day...
The brown-haired twelve-year-old sighed, his full dark brows furrowing as he surveyed the contents of the screen in front of him. "First, you need to make sure you've equipped the Warrior character with the 'Holy Armor' and that he's wielding the 'Sword of Light', then you need to be sure that your Mage has the 'Staff of the Magus' and the 'Realignments of the Divine'."
"That way, the Warrior can 'spec' into the Paladin class, which gives him attack and defense bonuses against the Dark Lord, and also, the items that I mentioned for the Mage will boost the effects of their healing abilities and the damage of their offensive spells on 'evil' characters."
Tatsuki looked on, dumbfounded as Hideyoshi expounded upon the intricacies of the video-game that he and Tatsuya were presently engaged in. "Woah, that's incredible," her son exclaimed excitedly from his perch on the couch. "But what about the Archer and the Cleric?" The bespectacled youth asked the younger boy. "How do I make the best use of them in the upcoming battle?"
"Well in the case of the Archer, you need to make sure that they're wearing the 'Ranger's Cloak' and their wielding the 'Goddess's Bow', which majorly increases their overall damage in and the chances of landing a critical hit on an enemy." Hideyoshi replied. "As for the Cleric... Well, if you focus the Mage on offensive spells, you can put the Cleric in the 'Robes of the Divine', which will boost their healing powers and defense spells, but you'll have to keep an eye on them, since they're super critical."
Tatsuki Ishida had been silently and intently observing the interactions between her son and the son of her best best friend. She was forever grateful that the two boys wound up close enough in age that they shared a number of common interests. The truth was that their first child would have been closer in age to Sora... but things didn't work out. And so, a few years later, they had Tatsuya.
Tatsuki had always considered herself to be a practical person... but what had ultimately happened with their daughter had so tested both her and Uryu, in such a way that two loving people should never have to contend with, that a few years later- when their son was born- the gentle boy was their treasure!
"Wait up, just a minute, you two." Tatsuki protested. "Some of this sound suspiciously familiar, like the 'Warrior', the 'Mage' and even the 'Archer." She continued, folding her arms. "But surely, there has to other characters in this game- like other types of fighters?"
"Oh yeah, of course." He son was quick to reply. "There are points in the game, when magic doesn't work or where weapons get cursed, and then characters like the 'Monk' and the 'Martial Artist' are the key to getting through and winning those parts- because their bodies are their weapons."
The athletically-minded woman smirked. "Well that just makes sense."
"There're also points in the story where you can attack with healing magic."
"Hime?!" Tatsuki looked up in surprise, at the same time as their sons looked up in unison.
"Mom?/Orihime-san?" The two of them uttered aloud.
"Jesus, Orihime!" Tatsuki protested. "You startled the crap out of me, I was so caught in what the boys were talking about..." She confessed, starting to calm down. "When did you get back?"
"Oh, just a few minutes ago." The curvy redhead replied, moving in to hug her lifelong friend, before then moving to face her son, smiling and ruffling his hair. "You boys having fun, Yoshi?"
"Yeah, Mom." He blushed faintly under her show of affection, but didn't resist.
"Thanks so much, Tatsuki, you and Uryu have been lifesavers for me and Ulquiorra."
"No problem." She replied as she took on a more relaxed demeanor. "To be honest, I was never much of a gamer myself, but Tatsuya is." Tatsuki admitted with a shrug. "And it seems like your boy is a wiz when comes to these things, so I was eating it up listening to them talking."
"And, well, I try to make the most out of our time together." Tatsuki added, looking briefly to her son, before perking back up and exchanging meaningful looks with the fiery-haired woman.
. . . ...o.o.o... . . .
With Caesar still perched on his shoulder, Ulquiorra mentally shelved the issue of the interloping bird in the back of his his mind, as he looked to figures of his wife and son...
Ulquiorra exhaled, taking in his circumstances. "No, Caesar and I were simply having a difference of opinion, that's all." The disguised Arrancar went on to say, managing a smile, collecting himself as he relocated the cockatoo to a nearby perch. "Now then, tell me, how were you days?"
Orihime gave him a smile, before stepping forward to exchange a kiss with her husband!
Drawing back, still smiling, she noted the changes in the man before her. For one thing, she couldn't help but take note of the reading glasses on the table, which she was also guilty of making use of these days. But more nuanced was the fact the teal tear-lines looked to have darkened alongside the traces of lines around his eyes, and she could've sworn she spotted the occasional silver hair in his main.
Not that she was fairing all that differently. After all, there were mornings when she woke up and she couldn't sworn that she was finding feint unflattering within her own features...
However, all of that could wait for the moment, as it was more than clear to her that she and husband and mate had both had long days- no doubt filled with tales and intrigue.
"I tell you what," Orihime started in a gentle tone. "It's clear to me that you've more than done your part seeing to all of our little birdies," she declared, planting another quick kiss on his lips, before she went on, meeting his green eyes with her own. "So the way I see it, it's only fair that I figure out our plans for dinner... and pour us both some wine in the process."
Ulquiorra and Hideyoshi watched as she disappeared into the kitchen, the two of them sharing a silent look as they processed the totality of what the woman had just said...
"Dad..." The adolescent started uncertainly.
"Yoshi?" His father fired back, as the two of them sat down on the couch.
"Um, I love Mom, I really do," his son entreated. "But, the thing is, her cooking..."
Ulquiorra noted how his son had trailed off, and made a point of scooting across the cushions, until he was in close to him. "I love your mother, there's nothing I wouldn't do for her," he began, encircling an arm around his son and drawing him in close and hugging him. "But I completely understand what you getting at."
"Orihime!" He called out to the kitchen, still while holding his son in his arms. "Sora will be getting home late, so how about I order in for something?" Ulquiorra offered his wife from the living room. "I know, why don't we have sushi?"
(- End of Chapter CV... -)
This penultimate chapter had a lot to cover in terms of character and story content. And, perhaps not so unsurprisingly, it wound up being pretty long (at least by my standards). Even now, there are a few plot points and characters that I just couldn't work into the final draft...
Still, I am happy that I got to give some character development to Hideyoshi. His consternation at being fussed over is partially inspired by my Niece, who happens to be the only granddaughter of my Dad and Stepmother (stuck with a brother and three boy cousins) and doesn't like being picked up and hugged all the time. But like her, Hideyoshi's accepted the fact that he's gonna be treated like a cute little doll. As for the older "kids" in the Seireitei, I wanted to show finally show finally show Ryusei, Mika, and Josef. Still, there's one more I couldn't work in (there just wasn't enough room for them!").
Now, if it seems like there were a number of plot points that I only briefly touched upon even just aluded to, this is actually because I intend to pay them off in what will hopefully prove to be a fun successful supplemental series to the original. And, in the same way this story wound up being a kind of thesis statement on my tenure on (and how things have changed), the future bonus series will serve as a bridge for me to move onto new sites like AO3. And as long as there's interest, I'll keep at it!
With all of that being said, the fact is, that I'm thirty-eight! I've been through a hell of a lot and I'm in the middle of navigating my way through what hopefully won't turn into a full-blown mid-life crisis. So, I hope you guys will be patient with me as I try to sort my life out and get things in order.