The current head of the Kuchiki household, Kuchiki Sōjun, sat before the elders of the clan. With his back straight and shoulders back, he wondered if they reached the same decision as his. There was no one else who could be by his son's side in the near future.

However, tradition was law in the eyes of the Kuchiki clan. Nobility must wed nobility; high to high and low to low. Marriage between two different classes of nobility was unheard of. Perhaps Sōjun could make the persuasion; there were Five Noble Families, while there are two clans with daughters neither were willing to marry into the Kuchiki clan. Although the Kuchiki clan had much influence, forcing a marriage would drive a wedge into the peace between the Nobles. The only option left was to choose a daughter from the available lower nobility families.

Sōjun couldn't help but favor the Nomiya clan's eldest child, Kazue. Her father, Mamoru, was his closest squad mate in their younger years at the Academy. They had many debts to clear with each other. It also happened that their children would get along. Kazue had spent many hours and days at the Kuchiki estate, watching Byakuya train with his grandfather. They had grown so much from when they were children and there was still so much growth for their love.

Sōjun could favor any young woman for his son, but it was possible that the elders would choose another-one who has the highest nobility and the most to offer the Kuchiki clan. They only sought to better the clan, enrich the bloodline. It reminded him how he fought for his and his wife's relationship to be recognized by the clan. The elders attempted many times to rip them apart; however, they overcame every obstacle thrown their way and grew stronger together. They were soulmates, no other reason nor explanation needed.

Ginrei, Sōjun's father, cleared his throat, ready to relay the elders' decision.

"Sōjun, we have reached a decision on the betrothment of your son, Byakuya…"


The blue-purple eyes of Kuchiki Sōjun always felt kind and welcoming to Kazue; most of the Kuchiki Clan had calculated, steel grey eyes with a piercing gaze that unnerved her. She had to admit that her favorite eyes were Byakuya's. They reminded her of the river stones in the pond at the Kuchiki Mansion—wide and shiny. Brimming with youth and excitement.

Although Byakuya was hotheaded and quick-tempered, Kazue admired how hard he trained to carry his father's title as head of the family. He had always put 110% of effort and it never went without notice from his grandfather. As she had her own duties to carry out, she was very appreciative of the guidance that Byakuya and his grandfather offered.

The silent enjoyment of the ceremonial matcha green tea was interrupted by a loud clamoring just outside the shoji screen that opened to the grounds facing east.

"That damn cat-woman..." grumbled Byakuya to which Kazue stifled a giggle. That would explain his lateness.

The shoji door opened softly, Byakuya kneeling apologetically. "Father, Nomiya-san, please pardon my lateness. I was kept busy and lost time."

"That is quite all right, my son. I am sure Kazue-san could find it in her heart to forgive this one incident. Isn't that right?"

With a light blush, Kazue silently nodded her head. "Yes, it is forgivable, Kuchiki-sama." She returned the bow, causing Byakuya to sit up.

"Now, my son, there is much to discuss," Sōjun motioned for his son to sit opposite Kazue, with each father to the left of their children. "The clan elders have finally given their blessings to begin the betrothment between you and Kazue-san."

The two young teenagers stared at each other for a few moments, processing what they just heard. Marriage?

Their eyes widened with realization and hearts raced. Kazue dropped her gaze to her hands on her lap, heat radiating from her cheeks down to her neck. The color of her hair and flushing of her skin was almost indistinguishable. All Byakuya could manage was dart his vision between Kazue and his father, grey eyes fret with shock and embarrassment. Taking a slow inhale, Byakuya attempted to gather himself, reeling in his racing thoughts.

"We understand that this information may be difficult to accept," Kazue's father, Mamoru, broke the awkward silence. "However, it needs not be a binding agreement between you two. The Kuchiki elders have allowed this condition to stand. They have agreed to allow you to have a choice in this matter: you can either marry each other, or either of you can decline the arrangement."

"I do believe it will be best for you to discuss with each other without our presence. You may take as long as you'd like. Nomiya-san and I will take our leave now," the two fathers slowly stood and bowed to their children, leaving without another word.

"U-um, Kuchiki-sama.." Kazue finally broke the silence. "If it's all right with you, may I speak freely?"

Byakuya stiffly straightened his back, "Yes, of course. Please let me know your thoughts."

Kazue placed her hands on the brown tea cup, staring at the dark green liquid. "Honestly, I had thought the lesser noble families would never be considered for an arrangement like this. I am so honored that my family and I were given this opportunity. Despite being given this opportunity, I can't help but feel apprehensive."

"I know that nobility status is not something that we think about everyday, but I do worry about how this arrangement will be received by the other houses. I am sure you understand what I mean, Kuchiki-sama. The council chose me over the many girls in the upper houses."

Kazue stood up slowly and bowed, "Shall we take a walk in the garden, Kuchiki-sama? I think it would be beneficial for us to have fresh air."

"Y-yes, of course, Nomiya-san," Byakuya led her to the garden, just north of the room they were just in. They stopped at the koi pond in the west corner of the garden.

With a small smile, Kazue turned to Byakuya, "Do you know what is my favorite in this garden, Kuchiki-sama?" Sitting on the edge of the koi pond, she dipped her hand in the water, gently moving her hand, causing small ripples to radiate. Byakuya took a seat not too far nor too close to Kazue.

"If I had to guess? I would say it would be the koi?" Byakuya looked into the water, eyeing the small koi appearing near Kazue's submerged hand.

"That is very close! I do enjoy the koi; however, my favorite thing is a little more obscure than that." With a light blush across her cheeks, she looked to Byakuya. "The river rocks are my favorite, actually. They remind me of your eyes, Kuchiki-sama."

She covered her mouth as soon as the last word left her lips, embarrassment sinking in. "I can't believe I actually said that…! Please don't mind what I just said!" Kazue wanted to die on the spot; her ears felt on fire and her stomach was fluttering with butterflies. "Please excuse me!" Kazue stood up quickly, not paying attention to Byakuya's shocked expression.

He hadn't realized the girl had run away until he finally blinked his eyes several times to make sure he wasn't dreaming. "Wait, Kazue-san!"