Chapters 6

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~~Impending Doom~~

It had been a month or so since she had stayed in Las Noches. The routine was as same as every other day which was either training, sleeping or strolling endlessly around the dome. There wasn't really any interesting things or hobbies she could exactly find to divert her mind from the insistent boredom she found hard to releive. Training sessions with Ulquiorra had become much more intense and active. Like he said, they had gone out to Hueco Mundo to further enhance their training, mainly because there would be more damage than usual. Ulquiorra had also said she had improved albeit slightly, it was progress. She was gradually getting the hang of her sword little by little, her control over the metal piece much better than before, though that did take some hard work as Ulquiorra was not very lenient. He was strict and relentless but knew when to stop at times.

She hadn't heard from Grimmjow since the first training session she had and was glad. She didn't need any distractions or agitators to ruin her mood which was why she avoided him recently. Ulquiorra on the other hand has mainly been a snob and spoke to her only when he needed to for official duties. She was shunned most of the time and sometimes had a problem with it but didn't react. She knew he wasn't the type to really say much but she couldn't help but feel useless when he would only call her for training and avoid her again. Not to mention how he always referred to her in distant manners, calling her 'woman' most of the time. It was frustrating. Every single hollow in the dome was as hostile as ever, she didn't crave for friends but just needed someone she could at least tolerate.

Once, she had asked all three of Harribel's fraccions for a training session in which she got shamefully refused by them. They ignored her and told her to leave their quarters which she did bitterly. She didn't know why she was so disliked, but most of the time, wouldn't dwell on the thought. She assumed it was probably how hollows here abided. Ones they were fond of most likely had a past of their own or some sort of connection.

A lot of times, she would go to the training grounds and end up training alone though she had no problem with it, it was a usual routine. She also tried as hard as possible to avoid the blonde haired man she encountered weeks before as a heated fight would most likely get her badly injured and may get Ulquiorra upset with her for causing unnecessary damage and fights in the building. The last thing she needed to do was ruin Ulquiorra's mood...well he was never really in good moods but she definetly didn't want to see his provoked side.

She needed to work on her zanpakuto so she could be able to properly defend herself. Once she acquires her former hollowfied state, she wouldn't have to cower away from every hollow that seemed like trouble to her.

The dark-haired woman was sauntering down the hallways as usual, keeping her energy as concealed as possible. She was currently on her journey to retrieve some reports and deliver them to Ulquiorra. She didn't dare open them as Aizen's subordinate that she had come to know as Gin, handed her over the files also stating not to open it, though she was tempted, refrained from doing so. The only problem she had was locating his quarters. She had used Pesquisa to help sense his spiritual pressure, but the energy was quite far. She wondered just how secluded his chambers could be.

Noticing an amount of spiritual energy nearing, she didn't bother running away as usual as it began to be quite tiring and annoying. It's not like something could happen passing by an Espada...

A rather tall appearance came into view from the opposite hall, advancing forward in casual strides. Looking forward at the powerful arrancar, the raven haired hollow came to the anxious woman's vision, appearance not quite familiar. Not wanting to draw attention to herself, the lady walked quickly, an attempt to escape the arrancar.

Her breath hitched when his steps came to a halt, her nerves heightening. Swallowing loudly, the uneasy hollow clearly in a haste, strolled further, eager to pass by the man without disturbance. The girl had assumed she succeeded in her escape, the short euphoria dissipating as the unknown arrancar captured her ever slender arm jerking her backwards to keenly examine her appearance.

Her lips parted in shock, cognac eyes stared at dark ones in uncertainty as the man's grip tightened before releasing the delicate piece of flesh dismissively. Deciding if she ran away, she'd most likely get attacked or chased by, the dark haired female nervously bowed in respect, cognizant to the fact the man was an Espada. Rising up to peek at his expression, she quietly took in his appearance. Watching as his features set in a huge smile, revealing his obvious upper teeth, she cringed at the sight of him.

The rather scrawny male had long raven hair, concealing a part of his face along with an eyepatch that only made the man look all the more frightening. His choice of clothing was similar to the rest of arrancars around here, clad in a white jacket that entailed a freakishly large spoon like hood along with a wide opening starting at the neckline revealing his midsection before closing at his waist. He's hakama similar to that of every male here except the ends of his pants close inside long and curved boots. His extended blade kept the woman on edge as she awaited his response, anxiety seeping through, though she tried as hard as possible conceal the fear in her features.

"Your that bastard's fraccion aren't you?" The Espada spat as his eyes ran up her figure shamelessly only unsettling the freaked out hollow. She wasn't sure who he was referring to so she could only stare dumbly.

"Ulquiorra." he added, sensing her confusion. Her eyes widened as her mind couldn't reckon on how the creepy man could address her master in such manner, but the woman knew better than to counter his words or she'd be ordering a death wish. She already got the idea he probably didn't like her at first.

She could remember seeing an arrancar awfully like him the first time she had arrived to Las Noches during her entry into the army. He was an Espada certainly. His spiritual energy was oddly familiar but she couldn't quite recall the memory.

"Y-yes...he's my master." she stuttered, cursing inwardly at the sound of her voice. Her hunged head snapped up to the Espada, legs approaching her slowly, the scared Numero backed up as she took careful steps backwards, unaware of his deeds.

"It'a such a shame." he purred, his unsettling smile in place. Freezing at his words, she quietly observed his figure. The male took slow but careful steps towards her, satisfied to see the terror in her eyes. He would use this to his advantage, even if Ulquiorra didn't care about her enough to want to defend his subordinate, at least he wouldn't be too glad to find out his fraccion was severely beaten up or maybe...

The suspicious man stood before the dazed woman, pondering over what he could do. Serelah, wanting to rid herself of the uncomfortable situation, shifted slightly, a silent message indicating she had somewhere to be.

"I have a task to complete, if you don't mind." she spoke out as she stared squarely at the man.

"Like I fucking care." he retorted, not really caring whether he hindered her duties or not. Taking a step closer, Serelah's eyes widened at the proximity.

The confused lady moved her hand to gently shove him away on his chest before he grabbed her towards him roughly, the lanky arrancar now merely an inch from her, breath fanning her face. His long fingers brushed her dark violet bangs from her eyes as he traced her features.

"How's your training been going?" he taunted, his idle hand reaching out to cup her bosom as she gasped, the man smirking in content. This was what he wanted. He found her doable so it wasn't that bad. He would be more than glad to use her for his endeavors as she would be the tool to earning the fight he longed and deserved. His mind couldn't even begin to imagine how she would react if he explored other places. He could've resulted to attacking her and probably leaving a couple of scars as warning to the Quatro but he found this method much more interesting.

"How do you even stand that freak? Isn't he too...stiff for you." he continued as he squeezed her mounds even tighter. Serelah was petrified at his actions and the innuendo he shot in his words. Off handedly, the now irritated lady, furiously met her hand with the demented man's cheek, punching him square in the face before using sonido to vacate his vicinity.

Such vulgar act! She would make sure never to cross paths with him again. Perhaps he was the person Ulquiorra had warned her to stay clear of? If so, she understood his reasons. She came to a conclusion that he had some sort of grudge or dislike for Ulquiorra which she wasn't aware of. Though she wasn't so sure if Ulquiorra be willing to fully enlighten her on their relationship.

She needed to locate his quarters as fast as possible. Feeling the Espada trailing behind, she felt both annoyed and worried for herself.

Pulled back by an outstretched arm, the poor lady was jerked backwards towards his chest. How he had caught up so quickly, she couldn't understand.

"Let me go or I'll..." she uselessly tried to threaten the arrancar, knowing it was pointless. Her back was facing him as he used his arm to circle her neck, trapping her in place.

"Tell your master?" he taunted, seemingly annoyed with the fact she had walked out on him when he was clearly enjoying himself earlier.

"I'll teach you a lesson for that." he growled as he slowly lowered his head biting her delicate neck, sucking on the skin. Serelah felt utmost disgust for the Espada right now. If she could she would dismember all his organs into places, leaving contently. She bit her lip hardly, trying to contain the painful cry escaping her as his teeth deepened into her skin. She didn't want him to think he was being encouraged, that would be a bigger problem.

Carefully, she summoned a cero at the ground, the red sphere increasing. The man's eyes widened as he saw exactly what she was trying to do.

"What the-" crimson explosion seperating the two hollows, the courageous arrancar dared to watch the man escape the fading smoke as he leapt for her, surprising the Número.

Masculine hands enveloping her neck, he smashed her against the wall harshly then furiously captured her lips roughly as he explored her mouth.

"Don't...ever...try...that" he spoke between the kiss, the contact revolting. Her head was pounding from all the pain he excercised into her head when he had brutally hit her against the surface. She was a hollow and was capable of taking hits and attacks a normal human could probably die of, but that didn't mean she couldn't feel pain too to an extent.

By now the papers she helt firmly before had flew to unknown places. This action was...vile and he never even stopped to let her breath, she felt...sucked out.

She tasted delightful. He could if there was time, ravish her completely. If Ulquiorra couldn't use what he had to it's purpose, he would be more than glad to take up the task. This way, he'd be getting what he wanted.

He wasn't playing around when he told Ulquiorra he'd pay. He would find and use every means to get the attention of the cocky fourth.

Neck held in place, his left arm began to reach under her shirt, the woman flinching from the contact.

"What are you doing?" a smooth voice questioned, startling the two hollows.

Serelah gasped at the voice, recognizing the deepness of the tone. Offhandedly, the perverted man broke the kiss, throwing the petrified woman aside then facing the stoic Espada as he stalked forward meticulously.

"You finally decided to look for her?" he mocked, grinning wildly.

The Quatro blinked slowly as his gaze gradually fell to Serelah. She was somewhat sluggishly lifting herself from the floor appearing somehow dizzy, her shirt disheveld.

"I will ask again, what were you doing with her?" he asked blatantly ignoring his comment, his expression unreadable as he continued to stare intently at the mystified woman.

The fifth cackled to himself as he looked at the Espada.

"Concerned?" the psycho replied, grin broadening. "Well if you so wish to know, we were just havin an innocent first time greeting, it was...mutual." he said, trying to provoke the Espada.

This did not affect Ulquiorra in the least. He had simply been waiting for his fraccion to deliver the files he was supposed to receive. He noticed she was taking too long and had sensed her spiritual pressure along with Nnoitra's, with that alone, there was definitely something up. He didn't want to involve anyone into his business with Nnoitra, that was the only reason he intervened. He knew Nnoitra would result to this, infact he was waiting for the time to come. It was petty and expected of him. He wasn't going to fight him though, at least not yet. Nnoitra made him mad, but he never actually provoked him to that extent.

His eyes snapped to the smirking arrancar, eyes shown mischief. Walking to the tensed lady, he stood behind her, licking her neck slowly all the while staring at the fourth Espada. Serelah flinched at the feel of his saliva on her skin as she shut her eyes closed tightly, too stiff to react.

Ulquiorra watched in disgust at his actions, taking one step further to make him understand.

"Release the woman." he ordered, not having time to play along with his silly antics.

Serelah on the other hand was both angry and relieved to see Ulquiorra had arrived, perhaps he could aid her out of the cooped up position she was in. She really couldn't tell what he would do with his ever unpredictable persona sometimes.

The lewd man in question seemed unable to keep his hands to himself which was straight out disgusting. She made a mental note to take a long shower afterwards to expel the putrid odour of the filthy man off her skin.

She pleadingly looked to her master for any form of reprieve. As expected of Ulquiorra, he stared blankly before looking away from her to the mad man behind.

"I won't repeat myself Nnoitra." he blankly stated, shoulders shrugged.

"Are you trying to threaten me now? Please, don't make me laugh." he spat before tossing her aside again, having gotten enough of her for now. Dramatically stretching his arms, he feigned tiredness before grinning to Serelah, lowering himself to whisper her ear.

"I'll see you soon." he purred.

"Fool." she seethed in disgust earning a release of laughter from the Quinto.

"I appreciate the compliment." he replied before rising up to face the Espada. Serelah glared at his sarcastic retort before moving to get up despite herself.

"Till later...Quatro." With his valediction, the satisfied man stalked off though not before flashing his associate a smirk and exiting the hallways.

The taciturn Espada simply blinked away, clenching his hands in his pocket. Hearing a whining, his attention slowly diverted to his assistant, the female arrancar adjusting her shirt before quickly rushing to his side.

"Th-thank you my lord. What you did was pure intelligence, not starting a fight and al-" Fractional words were hindered by the dark male in rude respond to her utterances.

"Don't be mistaken. I didn't do it for you. I simply took care of the situation because it was my issue to handle. It was my fault for not describing him to you before." he explained as the lady looked down with a face expressing an 'oh' before looking to his shiny teal pupils.

"Still...thank you." she muttered, her voice much lower than before but audible enough to hear.

The pale hollow dismissing her reply, proceeded in asking her his question.

"Where are the files?" he questioned.

"Huh?" Staring blankly at his co-worker, he awaited her reply. Amber eyes lit up in rememberance before the submissive lady rubbed her neck nervously.

"Those...kind of got lost on my way here somehow. I apologize sincerely for my mistake." she admitted openly to her superior.

"What excuse will you give to Lord Aizen?" he interrogated, mildly surprising his subordinate. About to actually respond to his words she shamefully looked to the ground realizing it had been a rhetorical question.

"I... um..." Unable to construct words, she decided it was best to keep shut rather than embarass herself. Slightly annoyed with the situation, the raven haired arrancar simply stared at her, quietly chastening her with his eyes. He was aware she felt highly uncomfortable and knew the effect it had on her.

"Woman." His voice called sternly, face still impassive. The terrified lady snapped her eyes to his in dreadful anticipation.

"Those papers contained valuable information concerning a certain important issue Lord Aizen had wanted me to look through. Now that you've lost them, you don't seem to have a way of retrieving them back." he chastised, saddening the girl slightly. It was her fault for not being advertent enough, but half of her anger and hatred for herself drifted to the insane lunatic that had mishandled her earlier. If he hadn't been around that time, it would save her this scolding.

She bowed her head apologetically.

"I apo-"

"Quit apologizing. I find it rather irritating." he interrupted, silencing his assistant. He glanced to her bruised red neck, itching to touch it before keeping his hands remained in his pocket.

"Do you want me to explain the situation to Aizen?" Her unusually frail voice questioned. Immediately shaking his head in disagree, his ebony locks lightly slapping his cheeks, he replied.

"There will be no need for that. I will handle it." he responded, instantly disregarding the confused female as he passed by her frame. The purple head turned to further inquire before realising he had utilitised his sonido on her.

Retracting her outstretched arm, she clenced it to her chest before muttering.

"Damn it." She cursed in anger. She felt foolish for her actions, hatred for the earlier scrawny espada and irritation at herself. She kept making mistakes every now and then and was only providing him room to dislodge her as his fraccion and dreaded the prospect. She wasn't too fond of him but he was much more understanding than any hollows around here, also much different.

She had never encountered or come across someone so devoid of feeling even if just a little bit. Though that fact was also what made him quite slow to anger or annoyance. If he wanted, he could've punished her but he didn't. He most likely so no reason to though as the situation wasn't all that serious, but his ability to perceive things more logical than others was an admirable trait which was why she would prefer to remain in her position as his fraccion rather than anyone else. It was probably his analytical nature that intrigued Aizen too as she noticed he praised and gave him credit for a lot of things during her time here. She was aware of that.

"What're you thinking about?"

Jerking back from the voice, she let out a gasp as she turned to the source, relief washing over her tense features before glaring at the fellow in distaste.

"Woah, what's with the hostile stare? Already have an enemy?" the sapphire haired arrancar joked. Though she didn't find it that amusing, she couldn't help but sigh and close her eyes then opening her jewels before turning and walking out on the feline.

"Leaving?" The sexta said from behind, following her. Lips pinned together in irritation, she turned to the panther, their faces almost in contact before the cautious woman collected herself.

"What do you want Grimmjow?" she spat, venom dripping her words. Finding her attitude amusing rather than rude, he continued to bother the lady.

"Nothing. Just bored." he replied, his face confirming the fact. The Numero raised a dark brow at that, crossing her arms.

"So you decide to come to me?" she asked, clearly not understanding his reasons.

"You're right, actually I was roaming the hallways when I came across a lost puppy staring at the ceiling." he shrugged, face still blank, purposely aggravating the lady.

Her eyes narrowed in anger at the ugly metaphor he used to describe her earlier pondering.

"Leave me alone." she growled, not knowing her voice could omit such sound.

"Yeah I will." he obeyed, surprising the arrancar. She eyed him suspiciously, an attempt to read his motives.

"Thank-" Interjected by the Espada, he grinned as he spoke.

"If you spar with me." he concluded, crystal blue eyes sparkled with amusement.

Golden jewels widened before protesting frantically.

"N-no, I'm afraid I can't." she exclaimed, eyes defiant.

"Why?" The sexta questioned as he shrugged.

She was skilled in her martial arts section but wasn't so sure if she could keep up with Grimmjow. He was much stronger physically and energy wise too. She was no match for him. She'd rather go train herself than get involved in that. There was certainly a chance that she'd suffer a couple deep wounds and injuries that wouldn't be too easy to clean up. She was still recovering from the previous session she fought with Ulquiorra. How could he even request such from her? A mere fraccion, she didn't look down on herself but felt inferior to any Espada. He was aware he was much powerful than her so why do such. It seemed he was interested in fighting those weaker and under him or the opposite too.

"I have a job for my master." she shamelessly lied through her tongue.

"If you did, you wouldn't stand aimlessly at that spot before." he countered, shrugging, not convinced by her words.

"I don't care if you believe me or not, I have duties to attend to.'' she retorted, not sparing him any of her time as she passed by his muscular frame, preventing herself from looking back to gauge his expression.

"You do know you're supposed to obey your superiors right?" he said earning a halt from the woman he sought. "I won't go hard on you. Just need something to buy time away you know, plus I wasn't exactly asking you." he stated as the woman muttered profanities under her breath, walking up to him along with her glare set.

"Why do you need me of all people to fight with? Don't you have fraccions or something?" she almost yelled in his face. Where she acquired her confidence, she knew nothing of. He grinned at her reaction.

"I do, but I'm kinda gettin bored with them these days, I can read their moves like a book. A little something different isn't so bad is it? Besides..." Lifting the hair from her face, slender hands immediately wiping his hand away in offense before the panther captured it in his, grip tightening.

"I want to know how you fight. It'd be funny to see if you were just shit or actually worth living." he commented before roughly pushing her backwards, releasing her arm carelessly. She scowled bitterly in his direction.

"I wonder why you weren't so feisty when you were with Nnoitra." the sexta remarked resulting to her hues enlarging at his analysis. Not because of the observation she didn't notice earlier, but because it was the odd truth. She had been completely immobile when the Espada had assaulted her, her only retaliation was when she had punched him in the face which was honestly a big risk she took before.

Perhaps she was more...confident while being with Grimmjow, knowing he won't harm her like that.

She said nothing of it as she switched the topic immediately, not ready to settle on the matter before realizing something she failed to notice earlier.

Her expression formed to one of disbelief as she stared at the panther.

"How did you know?" she inquired, unable to fathom his detection. She hadn't seen Grimmjow anywhere during the transpired event, he shouldn't even be aware of that.

Not surprised by her questioning, he rolled his eyes in disinterest before passing by her to walk away. Honey coloured eyes narrowed in annoyance before she appeared before the blue haired man, making sure to block his path.

"Just answer the question, it can't be so hard." she pryed further, irritating the feline looking male as he glared angrily at her.

"Why does it even matter?" he mumbled as the curious female shot her thick brows up in mock surprise before crossing her arms, lips set in a hard line.

"Why does it matter? What do you even mean? Of course it matters. It's pretty creepy knowing someone was secretly watching you from afar...especially you." she spat the last part. The Espada scoffed as his stare sharpened resulting to the woman tensing slightly at his scrutiny.

"You know, I don't like you too much Serelah and I know you're not so fond of me either but you'll be highly flattering yourself if you think I'd actually waste my time spying on you. I have better things to do than watch you get fucked up by that dude." he replied, subtle anger surrounding his words. Serelah could only quietly stare, trying to grasp his words, her scowl gradually vanishing.

Her determined aura ceased to fade though.

"Then how did you know I was with Nnoitra." she contradicted, the tan male cursing under his breath before grabbing her neck suddenly, startling the slim lady. The ever bold walls behind her shiny eyes melting away in apprehension for the Espada. She had now crossed the line, it was obvious.

Effortlessly, his muscular arm lifted her up as his apparent anger shadowed his features. His cerulean irises now darkened in fury for the lady.

"Don't ask me anymore questions. I was simply around to witness the scene. Shit up my mood and I'll torture you." he growled, unceremoniously dropping her fatigue filled body to the cold marble floors.

Sadly, there was nothing she could do to retaliate or fight back. She didn't want to die just yet. It was very clear the Espada had issues in his anger related areas which was quite deadly for a hollow. It was why he always acted domineering when he felt like he needed to. Unfortunately, it was exactly what he was currently using on her to get what he wanted.

The urge to kill him was not present, rather she thought torturing sounded much better. Seeing him in pain for longer would be basking. Though those wishes couldn't be granted, she couldn't help but allow gruesome scenarios flash her mind towards the Espada.

The dark purple haired lady mechanically releived herself off the dusty floors, standing stiffly as her two fists clenched tightly beside her, the anger lingering inside refusing to dwindle.

"Shall we? I don't have time to waste." she uttered, glaring intently at the marble floors. The sexta smirking as he got his wishes, briefly replied.

"Good thing you learned your manners...and yeah, I'll let you have your time attend the 'duties' your master ordered you." he mocked as he turned to walk to the training grounds, his remark earning a harder scowl from the shorter woman.

The ashen hollow stood by his balcony, calmy looking over the sands as he gazed intently, mind deep in thought.

He had had a lot of things to do lately and now was a different task. Approximately in the next month or so he would have to undergo another expedition, fortunately without Serelah. She was mostly a bother to him and it was the main reason he didn't desire a fraccion. He liked completing tasks for Aizen on his own, he didn't need an associate.

Saving her from Nnoitra had been a voluntary move only because he wanted her to understand the kind of person Nnoitra was. He knew the mad Espada was with Serelah the entire time. He intervened when he noticed things were getting too detailed to desist the vulgar man from his act. The valid reason he had helped her out the disturbing situation was to retrieve the files Aizen said he'd collect. Next time though, if there would be, he wouldn't intervene as it wasn't his business nor his problem. She could die for all he cared and he'd be strangely glad. He didn't revel in seeing the woman die, but rather found it releiving - a weight off his shoulders.

She was the reason why Nnoitra would be troubling him more consistently and it irked him. Perhaps if he showed no concern for the woman, the deranged fifth would give up and dispose of her to no use. He was aware the Quinto planned to exploit the woman in order to gain a duel from him which was ridiculous. He would kill him once and for all except Aizen wouldn't be too pleased to find his valuable Espada killed over such trivial issues.

Pushing aside his thoughts over the lady, he proceeded his intent stare on the sands below.

Grimmjow, as it seemed was battling or rather training with Serelah as he could feel the light fluctuations of their spiritual pressure, mainly her's. It didn't seem like they were using energy attacks judging from their spiritual pressure. It looked like the two were engaged in physical contact if he was correct. It was going on for some time now which he wasn't sure why since the woman wasn't too fond of the panther.

Most likely behaving as demanding as always. The bat thought to himself.

The conservative hollow stepped out of the balcony, into his domain, instinctively observing the space before moving to lie on his bed, an arm on top of his forehead as he gazed at the ceiling, not ready to sleep any time soon. His ever melancholic aura spread across the room, giving anyone who'd arrive, ill at ease feelings.

His routine had always turned out the same. If he wasn't doing anything for Aizen, he'd either train when no one was aware or abide in his room where it was void of vexatious arrancars.

Although in a few months, things would be a bit different around Las Noches.

Grimmjow was the first to call an end to the intensive fight they were both just eagerly into. His entire figure was drenched with sweat releasing a rather foul odor as she chose to avoid coming too close to him for now.

He grinned evilly, knowing the reason for her distance before striding over to her. Serelah on the other hand had been trying to tidy up herself, back towards him. From behind, wet arms enveloped her figure tightly, the dusky woman gasping at his silly actions. She was sweaty all over too, but maybe not as profusely as the Sexta. Her bonded hair was now cascading down her back, hair splayed about her face. She would've taken off her jacket except she was only wearing a couple of bandages under and modesty was a huge part of her charisma.

The turquoise haired fellow looked down at her, obnoxious smirk in place before the now annoyed woman dabbed at his gut with her elbow fiercely. His earlier smile replaced by mild pain as he backed away from the aggressive lady.

"The hell?" he exclaimed as his arm hovered over his abdomen.

The girl rolled her eyes at his behavior before passing by him, seemingly trying to ignore him as she was still irked by how he had somewhat bullied her before.

She retrieved her zanpakuto from the ground, placing it in her sash before walking over to exit the place she never planned to stay in.

"Good session wasn't it?" The irking voice interrupted her foot steps. She looked over the Espada from her shoulder, offering him a small, though obvious fake smile, not trying to conceal the message behind it.

"Hmm..." she nodded. "It was great." she uttered sweetly.

Grimmjow who had expected her sarcastic responses, rose an eyebrow at the odd tone she used to articulate her words.

The purple haired arrancar closed her eyes in attempt to portray her smile as genuine but also forced.

"Though I'd prefer it much better if the agreement wasn't discorded don't you think?" she spoke through gritted teeth, her constrained smile wearing off.

The blue haired man stares at her a moment before chuckling to himself.

"Your not going to drop that?" he replied as his features turned to that of disbelief, the man not able to beleive she would still dwell on the matter.

Turning to face the man fully, the frustrated woman narrowed her eyes in annoyance to his antics in which Grimmjow merely smirked, not exactly bothered.

"Why wouldn't I? I mean I'm still pretty tired, you forced me here against my own will and you still have it in you to ask me not to drop that? You know, if I could I would make sure to barely come across you if I can..." Her words hung half way, stopping herself from making any rude utterances that might put her in trouble. The last thing she needed now was a busted nose and a torn lip.

His lips stretched, bringing out his infamous grin as he watched her, hands in his pockets.

"You always did that though. Avoiding me from time to time then you'd just vanish when I came close to avoid me. It was pretty obvious you were just another one of those scared hollows who ran away from every Espada they met." he stated matter-of-factly, shrugging along.

Her eyes widened at his words. She didn't know he was always aware she avoided him multiple times. She made sure to always vacate the area whenever she could sense even an ounce of his spiritual pressure. Had she been that obvious or was her energy that noticeable? Either ways, she chose not to care anymore as there was nothing she could do to make him beleive it wasn't the case. She would just look more stupid trying to convince him otherwise.

Gulping to herself, she looked downwards not having anything to say before her eyes lingered on his form swiftly, turning to leave the area.

"That's what I thought." She heard him mumble from behind, her lips jamming each other in frustration before letting his reply slip and walking out of the training grounds. Her jaw clenched in anger before suppressing a scream resulting a groan escape.

Not wasting any more time, she hurried to her chambers, eager to wash out the putrid smell of both her's and Grimmjow's sweat. Afterwards she would visit Ulquiorra's quarters in order to ask him whether he got what he sought for. Even if he would push away and ignore her, it would show she displayed genuine concern for her mistakes. She didn't care if he avoided or ignored her on most occasions, as long as she fulfilled his duties and appeared reverent, she didn't see any reason why he'd dislike her.

The drained lady opened the door to her quarters Immediately shutting it with ease. The vacancy remained the same with it's serene silence along the slightly cold breeze that escaped through the iron built windows. Her room was always arranged neatly and presentable, not for anyone specifically, but for her own sake. She was a hollow of decency and neatness so she didn't really know how to make her space messy.

The tired girl packed up her lavender colored hair to a rather rough bun, pieces of hair hanging around her visage. Sluggishly, she stripped her clothes off, her primary goal to dive into the enticing hot paradise that she knew as the bath tub.

Fully bare, she grabbed the towel from her table about to unfold the material before a door opened and a presence entered. She tensed as she immediately looked back to see that it was the ever dark cryptic aura that belonged to Ulquiorra. His being here already formed a bleak atmosphere seep in.

Muscles tense, she hugged the peach towel higher to her bosom, an attempt shield her open body from the stoic male.

His inky olive eyes drove over her exposed figure before landing on her face. The nervous lady quickly shutting her eyes in embarrassment.

"Why now?" she muttered under her breath, not sure if the ashen man heard her or not.

His deep voice caused her already pumped up muscles tremble further.

"Aizen requires of your presence currently." he stated, expression as devoid of emotion as ever. His tone was flat and his stare was unwavering which only confirmed the fact he wasn't interested in her flesh or exposed form which was expected but also odd at the same time.

Her intent gaze leveled at the ground in all nervousness. Adjusting the towel, she quickly made sure it enveloped her body suitably before fully facing him, though her eyes refused to meet with his.

She cleared her throat softly.

"I-is that so? I'll be present as soon as possible. Thank you for informing me of this my lord." she spoke, head poked downwards as she couldn't allow him see her crimson marked face.

She noticed he wasn't making any moves to leave yet so she shifted nervously before looking to the side expectantly. He should've gotten the hint she needed him to move out for a minute. Why was he making this so hard?

Ulquiorra had been mildly surprised to see her uncovered body as soon as he entered but didn't allow it show. He didn't fail to notice her red filled face and he found it quite odd if not amusing.

'Why does she do that?' he thought to himself before walking closer to her conserved form, all the while looking at her as he advanced forward. For some reason, she refused to look at him. Was it due to her coyness?

He put aside the thought as the taller male stood before the shaken woman, an appropriate considerable distance drawn between the two.

He angled his head slightly before grabbing her chin curiously and gingerly as he took in her face.

She was a petrified statue at seeing him up close. His pretty though masculine features more prominent for her to view more clearly than before. Sharp verdant eyes bored into her as he tried to convey her expression. His thick inky brows shot down slightly than before displaying a subtle frown as his sable lips twitched slightly as if in deep concentration.

His weak hold on her chin allowed her face hung downwards once again to avoid his scrutiny before pulling it upwards mildy more rough than before.

"Look at me." he ordered. Allowing herself gaze into his emerald pools, her closed lips moved to question him for his actions before he interjected. "I highly doubt your ill, so why is your face like that?" he inquired. The earlier flustered female frowned in confusion before realizing what he meant as she could truly see although mild curiousity and confusion trace his features.

She smiled lightly as she begun to explain.

"Um, that's cause I'm embarrased or...self conscious. It can happen to anyone." she explained to him. She saw that his mildly perplexed expression only wore off slightly as he spoke.

"I see." He finally let go of her jaw as he walked away from the dazed lady who was shocked by his actions.

His pale hand covered the knob as he was mere seconds to leaving the chambers when her soft voice was caught by the man.

"I-it could happen to you too." she whispered, though loud enough for the dark male to harken. His eyes remained on the floor as he waited for her to continue.

Meekly, she spoke.

"I mean...you could also get self conscious sometimes."

That statement had caught his attention as he turned to face her petite form.

"Impossible. Just because you could exhibit such a silly human emotion as a hollow doesn't mean it would be the same case for me woman." he elaborated as the stood lady further explained.

"Were both hollows, because it hasn't happened to you before doesn't mean it can't. You're capable of it too." she tried to convince.

"I beg to differ." he retorted. She sighed as she thought nothing was able to change his fixed mind. She knew he wasn't one to ever feel that way but it was because no one had ever made him to. If she could strike up something intriguing, she wondered if he'd be willing to agree.

Her honey filtered eyes sparkled as an amusing idea planted itself in her head.

Ulquiorra didn't fail catch the evident change in her demeanor as he quietly observed her.

"What if I cause you to?" she spoke out with as much courage as she could muster. Her inner self telling her to have stopped earlier, but her arrogance didn't allow herself keep shut before.

Mild amusement flashed through the Quatro's eyes and left as fast as they had arrived which made the female even question thoughtfully if she really had seen it.

He stepped forward intimidatingly.

"Is that a challenge?" he questioned, his face still expressionless matching his tone of voice.

She continued to stare down the Espada.

"Well...maybe." she briefly replied, unsure herself. He stared at her a moment before responding.

"You delude yourself to think you'd ever be able to make me do something like that." he countered as the woman went silent at that, unable to contradict his words. He was right. She was merely blabbering. There was absolutely nothing she could think of to make him react in such a way. The thought of it did make her smile lightly as she pondered over the amusing scenario.

"Though..." he started, earning the attention of the lost female. "If you are able to which I doubt you would, you can try, but it's a worthless effort." he articulated.

The lady beamed at his response before bending her head low politely.

"No problem my lord, I...won't dissapoint you." she replied.

She looked to him expectantly in which he tore off the gaze.

He opened the anxious door as he stepped out, about to close it off before letting his eyes linger on her once more as he swiftly turned and exited the quarters.

The woman allowed a heavy breath escape, not knowing she had kept it still all along.

His coming here had left her astonished and bewildered. The obvious energy that spilled from him was somehow mysterious and his actions were worth questioning sometimes. For a smart hollow, he found curiousity in the most smallest of things, she didn't know he was that cluless about emotions.

This whole occasion was...unexpected and it made her livid that he had to see her in such a strange state - in a towel? Yet, she was still somehow smiling lightly at what had just transpired.

Prior to when he arrived, she was so eager and happy to enter the bathroom, but now the confused lady was left standing in the middle of the vacancy, stiff as she closed herself to her thoughts, the pale hollow leaving Serelah flustered within the quiet confines of her room.

•

How was that? It took me a while to finish up this chapter cause I've been a busy wreck and I sincerely apologize as I know how it feels to wait so long for a chapter. It may take a while before I upload chap 7, but this story will not be discontinued...unless it's not that successful. Eithers ways, I appreciate reviews and comments of all sort cause they leave me elated and makes me know people actually care about my work. Criticizing is allowed as well as down straight complimenting, either ways it's up to you and all will be acknowledged.

Thanks for reading.

bye!