Dragon Guests: Dragon Courting
Jushiro and Rukia were walking with their blankets tightly wrapped around their shoulders. A bag, made from the boar's skin that was dried by dragon fire, hung on Jushiro's back. Whenever he shifted his shoulders, Jushiro could feel the boar flesh jumble around in its neat pieces. Rukia carried the map, extra cloth, and a few gold coins gifted from Ichigo in her pack.
Although cold, the day was noticeably nicer. The air smelled like a frosted wonder, and the greenery shifted in the slight breeze as if to mimic waving hands all around. The pathway appeared clearer than the first time Jushiro saw it: rocks, blades of grass, twigs, and other such pieces. The branches of nearby trees were outstretched toward Jushiro and Rukia, greeting them on their way back. The sun shined on their path, further warming Jushiro and Rukia in their cozy shields from the cool air.
Touching one of the branches, Jushiro blinked at the sudden glint from the ring on his finger. He brought his hand back. The ring shined from the tip of the sapphire to the silver band itself. A sudden emptiness filled his chest and spread to his gut.
Before Jushiro and Rukia had set off from their dragon partners, Grimmjow had stopped him and placed the ring on his finger. Despite Jushiro's protest at the glamorous gift, Grimmjow had insisted that Jushiro take it, explaining that the sapphire would keep them connected. Ichigo had done the same for Rukia, but he'd gifted her with a golden necklace that had a fiery diamond hanging on the very end. Rukia had given her rebuttal to the gift, but Ichigo had strongly insisted she keep it, adding that Rukia only deserved the best he could give.
"How are you doing so far?" asked Rukia, who glanced at Jushiro. "I know you said you were excited to walk, but I want to make sure that you're not hurting."
Jushiro shook his head. "I'm fine," he replied. "You worry too much, but if it weren't for such a trait in you, then we'd have been doomed two days ago."
"You're my friend now, Jushiro," said Rukia. "You can expect more worry from me more than ever."
"I welcome it," replied Jushiro. "How long do you think we'll get there on foot?"
"Hopefully by the end of tomorrow or the day after," answered Rukia. She fingered her necklace. "I would like a proper bed to sleep in, and I'd like to wear more clothes."
Jushiro agreed with her. The idea of a warm bed and some new clothes made him excited. Thinking back to the night before, Jushiro recalled the warmth from Grimmjow's hand and the pleasant burn of the mark on his palm. Who knew I'd be soulmates with a dragon? He gently touched at his ring. I certainly didn't…but what about Rukia? Is she Ichigo's soulmate, too? Did fate mean for us to go to that lake? The emptiness nested itself in his chest this time, and he touched just under his collarbone.
"Urahara is going to be happy when we get back," stated Rukia. She was holding her necklace against her chest, and Jushiro wondered if she was thinking about Ichigo. "He'll see you all better, and he won't look so stressed. Besides Urahara, I know my brother will be proud to know that I helped pay the debt and slew a boar during my journey." She glanced at Jushiro with a smile. "I'm glad fate brought us together on this journey, Jushiro. This has been the happiest I've been since my sister passed."
"I'm glad, as well," replied Jushiro. He touched Rukia's shoulder. "I'm alive because of you. Now, we have our futures to look forward to, and I have a new friend. I'll have to make plans to visit you and meet your brother; he sounds like an interesting character."
Patting Jushiro's hand, Rukia gushed, "You'll like my brother. He can be funny when he wants to, and like you, he prefers to have vegetable based dishes."
Just as he was going to reply, Jushiro heard a whinny from afar. He looked ahead and saw his black horse grazing. "Well, what a break!" he announced. He and Rukia approached the horse, pat it on its back, and took it with them. When they got tired, they saddled up and rode the horse until the dark swallowed up the daylight.
IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
The sun was low in the sky when Rukia and Jushiro entered the town "Bread Village." According to the smooth wood sign at the entrance, the town was famous for its breads. Businesses were still serving customers, horses were drawing various loads of products around, and a few chickens were being chased by a group of children. The air appeared smokier and crowded with noises, much busier than the calm lake.
"Let's find an inn," suggested Rukia. She dismounted the horse and started to guide the party when Jushiro dismounted. "Jushiro?"
"I'm able to walk," said Jushiro, "let's find the inn on foot together." Seeing the other nod with an understanding look, Jushiro followed Rukia's lead, looking around and waving at people who looked in their direction. As they walked, Jushiro noticed that different buildings were made with similar textures, but wall colors and any décor varied from place to place. He even saw the shop named Famous Breads: the shop was fancier than the other buildings around it, even having a sign that showed a special price on types of breads that day. They made a stop at the bread shop and purchased some twisty breads, and they made a stop at the next shop to procure another set of clothes.
Rukia was wearing a pair of brown pants, buckled shoes, a frilly shirt, and a small jacket. She'd had to convince the vendors that she was not a high-class lady but a warrior in training, showing her sword with the remnants of boar blood on it. Jushiro, on the other hand, was wearing a set of black pants, boots, simple shirt, and a heavy jacket. After leaving the shop, they continued on their trek toward an inn.
"This way," said Rukia and Jushiro followed. They set their horse up for the night in the stables the inn had and reserved a room from the owners, one tall woman with purple hair and another with short hair and blushing cheeks.
Sitting on his bed, Jushiro observed the small room as he ate his twisty bread. The walls were bare and browned, and the floors were wooden. Aside from the two beds, there was a chair by the window. They'd piled their belongings on the chair. Although the room was bland, the twisty bread wasn't. What a buttery delight!
When he finished his bread, Jushiro rubbed his hands together, feeling his ring rub against his skin. Jushiro caressed his ring, admiring how it shined in the room's light and reflected on his skin. He recalled the story of the god of wisdom, and he imagined the moment that the god's sword, as large as a castle, sliced his and Grimmjow's soul in half. He wondered if it had hurt when his soul was cut the way it did: did it burn or was it painless? Jushiro touched at his chest just under his collarbone again, where he believed his soul to reside. He wondered if his soul had a scar, what color it glowed, if the scar was smooth or jagged. He also wondered if Grimmjow's soul would mirror the condition of his own.
"Rukia?"
"Yes," replied the young woman as she sat on her own bed, occupying herself with her own twisty bread.
"Did your palm burn when you were with Ichigo?" he asked.
"No," answered Rukia, "Why? Should it have?"
Jushiro shook his head. "I was just wondering."
"Did Grimmjow burn your hand?"
"No!" Jushiro quickly replied. "He didn't set my hand aflame or anything. I just felt a burn in my hand when we touched." He glanced at his palm; the mark was there, slightly darker than the rest of his skin. "I just wanted to know if yours did the same."
"No," replied Rukia. "My hand didn't burn." She downed the last of her bread. "Mm! That bread was good. I'll have to save some for my brother." She laid herself down.
"Have you heard the story of split souls?" asked Jushiro as he turned himself toward Rukia.
"Of course," answered Rukia. "The story of the god of wisdom. My sister always told it to me when I was learning to walk and attending some school." She smiled as she reminisced. "She had a dramatic way of telling it, so she always had my attention… Are you Grimmjow's soulmate?"
Blushing, Jushiro nodded. "My hand burned bright, and it looked like this." He presented his palm. Rukia rose and cradled Jushiro's hand as she examined the darkened symbol.
"Amazing," commented Rukia. "My sister finding her soulmate in my brother-in-law was a rare sight for any one person to see. I have the privilege of seeing another find their soulmate."
Smiling and glancing at his palm, Jushiro replied, "I never knew I'd find my soulmate."
Chuckling, Rukia stated, "Well, you're one in probably millions. My sister always said she was the luckiest of a million." Her expression dropped. "Alas, my own hand didn't look this way, but that doesn't mean I can't be happy with a soul that doesn't match my own."
She sat back on her bed. "If I were to find my soulmate outside of Ichigo, I don't think I could bear the idea of splitting from Ichigo. I wouldn't dare to. If I could hem the edges of my soul to fit Ichigo's, I would."
Jushiro rose and sat next to Rukia; he put a hand on her shoulder, the muscle underneath stiff. Rukia looked back at him with a strong glow in her eyes, and Jushiro wondered if she was thinking deeply about the slice in her soul like he did his. Thoughts aside, Jushiro smiled. "Rukia," he said, "you don't need to hem anything of yourself. Rather, you can create a new pattern together with Ichigo." He touched at his ring again. "I apologize if this stirred negative feelings in you. I was just curious."
Rukia shook her head. "I just talk my thoughts aloud sometimes," she replied. She squeezed Jushiro's shoulder back. "You've done nothing wrong."
IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
Jushiro fell asleep, yearning more for Grimmjow's presence. The emptiness was heavier than ever, but a different feeling came over him during the night: a lift in his chest. He opened his eyes, and he was back by the lake. The shore was the same, the trees still swayed like they did before, the water was calm, the air contained a warmth that even made the starry sky and frosty bushes appear unworldly. Jushiro glanced about and approached the water. He wondered if Grimmjow was asleep in this dream of his, and he thought about just how vivid the lake appeared. He peered toward the deep end of the water for a sight of sparkling blue.
Nothing stirred.
"I'm not in the water," came Grimmjow's voice.
Turning with a slight jump, Jushiro backed away and gulped. "Grimmjow?" He could see the other kept the wrap on his hips.
Laughing lightly, Grimmjow held out his hand. "Come," he said, "you might not like the feeling of falling in the water this way."
With a quick look behind, Jushiro understood he was only one step away from stepping into the dark water. He took Grimmjow's hand; the feeling of being warm and whole came back to him. "I don't understand." Jushiro came closer and touched at Grimmjow's hair and cheek. The smooth and vibrant texture of Grimmjow's skin remained the same compared to his memory. "This is…This is absolutely…I…"
Grimmjow smiled as Jushiro fumbled for the correct words that escaped him. "You're wondering about this place," he guessed. When the other nodded, Grimmjow continued, "This is where I live. You know that. Though, the air is different to you." He brought up Jushiro's hand, bringing the ring in to view. "This ring allows us to see each other. It's the only one of its kind that is linked to me. In sum, we can see each other at my home, but you're with me spiritually." He revealed the glowing mark on his palm and compared the glowing blue color with Jushiro's.
Smiling and further entangling his fingers with Grimmjow's, Jushiro replied, "This is amazing. I thought I'd have to wait days or weeks until I could see you again."
"You miss me already?" Grimmjow lightly joked. He led Jushiro toward the trees.
"Of course," answered Jushiro. He caught up to Grimmjow's pace. "I felt it right here." He touched at his chest. He sucked at his lips when Grimmjow's eyes glinted in the spare moonlight.
"Hm," hummed Grimmjow as he touched at his chest, too. "I felt the longing here, as well." He stopped in his trek. "This is where the god of wisdom cut us apart." He approached Jushiro, embracing him so that their chests touched. Their faces were only an inch apart when Grimmjow rested his forehead against Jushiro's.
Jushiro's heart pumped wildly, beating at his lungs for room. He stared deep in to Grimmjow's eyes and felt that Grimmjow was embracing him with every fiber possible. He felt smaller in size. "This?" he stated quietly as he rested his hands on the other's firm arms. His hands fidgeted.
"This," said Grimmjow, "is how we came to be before we were separated." He blinked and glanced at Jushiro's hands. "I'm sorry." He pulled away. "I shouldn't have done that."
"You're fine," Jushiro quickly excused. "I—"
"—No," Grimmjow cut in. "I shouldn't be excused. You're uncomfortable. I can see it in your eyes and your hands."
Jushiro quickly took Grimmjow's hand. "Stop," he said. "Please." He embraced Grimmjow this time, his hands firm on Grimmjow's back and his head resting on Grimmjow's chest. "I didn't dislike this. I—I just never felt like this." He shut his eyes as the emptiness melted away completely. "I've never felt myself connect to someone else like this before." He felt the other's warm hands on his back again. "I'm embracing this feeling in my own way. I won't run away from you."
"Jushiro," whispered Grimmjow. He rested his cheek against Jushiro's head and took a deep breath as he relaxed.
Hearing the other's heartbeat, Jushiro sensed a familiar excitement. He wondered if Grimmjow spent all his time under the water, waiting for him on this night. Then, he thought about what little he knew of his soulmate. "Tell me about yourself," said Jushiro.
"What do you mean?"
Easing from the embrace, Jushiro held on to Grimmjow's hands. "Tell me anything you want me to know," explained Jushiro. "Tell me what you love or what you dislike. Tell me your favorite memory."
"Ah," said Grimmjow. He started to walk again. "Well, I was born from the confines of a blue shell. I remember that part vaguely, but I remember seeing the faces of the gods when they appeared in front of Ichigo and me. They said, 'You're guardians of blessed water. Let no one profit from this lake and forbid its use to those with tricky hearts.' Then, they placed us inside the lake. I'm not a big fan of being dropped from high places, and I learned that on the same day."
"They dropped you?"
"The god of wisdom thought it was hilarious," continued Grimmjow with a shrug. "Our mother, the dragon goddess, took one step in the lake and named us. Then, she left. My brother and I raised ourselves and connected with other dragons that passed by. We didn't make many friends. You and your friend are the only ones we've come to embrace."
Jushiro frowned. He imagined two baby dragons waddling along the lakes' edge and attempting to understand what they're supposed to do with themselves. "That sounds lonely," he commented.
Stopping at a tree, Grimmjow replied, "There was no choice. I don't feel anything toward the gods or my mother. My brother and I were there for each other through the centuries, and we got along fine. We are doing as we were born to do. Visitors remained strangers, and we were content that way." He looked up at the trees' branches; an unsettling sound came from his throat.
"You don't sound happy," Jushiro said as he observed Grimmjow give a heavy frown, lips tight. He squeezed Grimmjow's hand. "You're worthy of happiness." At that, Grimmjow's eyes sparkled like cut sapphires. "The gods can't command you to be alone like this. I wouldn't dare to leave you alone. Find happiness with me at your side."
Grimmjow embraced Jushiro tightly. "How could I not?" he replied. "You're a beacon of hope and good, a source I never thought I'd see in man." He ran his fingers through Jushiro's hair. "I wish I could speak more, but the day is coming."
"What!" exclaimed Jushiro as he looked up at his dragon. "But we just—how could I find you in my dreams again?"
"Summon me," answered Grimmjow. He softly kissed Jushiro on top of his head. "Call for me when you sleep." He pulled away and held on to Jushiro's chin. "Call for me."
IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
Rukia opened her eyes and saw the area where she slew the boar. Spatters of blood were gone. The trees were frosted, and the grass beneath her feet tickled her ankles. She glanced downward and confirmed that her clothes were still on. She sighed and turned about, looking for anyone else.
"What am I doing here?" she asked herself.
"Well, you summoned me," came Ichigo's voice.
Rukia jerked herself back as she faced her golden dragon man. "You scared the crap out of me," she quickly said as she touched her chest. She couldn't help the blush at the sight of Ichigo, a man more beautiful than any other she'd laid eyes on. She was glad to see him still wearing the wrap on his hips.
"Why are you staring, little witch?"
"I'm not a little witch," Rukia bit back. She crossed her arms. "How did we get here anyway?"
Ichigo approached Rukia and held out his hand, which Rukia took. "Like I said," he answered, "you summoned me here. When you sleep, all you have to do is call my name, and we can see each other. The necklace I gave you gives you the power to see me during your slumber." He pulled her to his chest and hugged her.
Rukia hugged back, her arms wrapping around Ichigo's thick and muscled waist. "I honestly thought I'd never see you," said Rukia, "not for months…" She sucked at her lips.
"So you missed me," stated Ichigo, a smile wide on his face.
"Yes," answered Rukia. "I did." She shivered when Ichigo's fingers combed through her hair and slid to the middle of her back.
"Have you made it home?" asked Ichigo. He repeated combing through Rukia's hair and down her back.
Shaking her head, Rukia replied, "No. Not yet. We're in a town that's famous for its bread."
Ichigo laughed. "That stuff that you humans eat?" he said. "That's a fun one."
"I thought so, too," Rukia chipped in. She pulled away a bit to look up at Ichigo. She felt a warm feeling enter her chest as she stared in to Ichigo's eyes. "You have such beautiful eyes…"
Smiling wider, Ichigo stated, "That's just what I was going to say about yours." He touched at her cheek. "Much more beautiful than the gems housed in the heavens."
"You've seen the heavens?"
"When I was born," explained Ichigo, "I was sitting among the fragments of my egg shell with my brother. Aside from the gods surrounding us, gems and gold framed the very existence of the heavens' grounds. I'll never forget how it all slipped so quickly when we were dropped into the water."
"They just dropped you?"
"The god of wisdom is a jackass."
"What."
"They don't care that I insult him sometimes," said Ichigo. "My mother, the goddess of dragons, excuses my actions most of time. Grimmjow is usually insulting him with me."
Seeing Ichigo groan at his mention of his mother, Rukia inquired, "Are you okay?"
"I don't want to talk about it," replied Ichigo. He looked up at the trees. "I'm sorry. Let's forget I mentioned any of those losers." He wrapped an arm around Rukia's shoulders and led her deeper in to the trees.
For some time, the only sound that came about was the crunch of the grass and the occasional sway of the branches above. Rukia kept glancing up at Ichigo and wondering how he felt regarding the gods, his mother, etc. She wanted to know more, but Ichigo's words, their strength in his tone, were a final seal on the subject. Rukia wouldn't pry if Ichigo didn't want to talk about it. Now that he was silent and brooding over what Rukia thought to be the end of their conversation, she felt the need to apologize.
"Sorry," said Rukia.
"For what?"
"For bringing your thoughts to a negative place," explained Rukia. She felt his fingers rub at her shoulder. "I didn't mean for you to feel unhappy. I want nothing but to see you happy, Ichigo."
"You make me happy," said Ichigo as he stopped them. He said down and gestured for Rukia to sit next to him. She followed. "There's nothing you could say that could make me unhappy, Rukia." He held her hand as he gazed down at her face, which was shaded from specs of moonlight. He could see her clearly. "No other person makes me feel as light as the swaying leaves like you. You're sweeter than dew and brighter than the moon. Look." He gestured toward the moon's rays. "They can't even outshine you here, where I can see you as clear as the water itself."
A warm feeling enveloped Rukia's face and shoulders. She lightly touched her own face, feeling the warmth radiate. "Ichigo," she said, "when you say such things, I—" She looked away. She'd never heard a praise like the ones Ichigo had just given. As a warrior, Rukia only heard criticism from other soldiers and commanding officers. The feeling that filled her chest was something foreign, for she'd always felt the cold in its place. Her gaze was brought back to Ichigo; she smiled at him. "No one has ever said such things to me."
"Then I'll tell you every day," promised Ichigo. His eyes were soft in the rebounding moonlight. "I'll remind you of your beauty, your bravery, and your brightness."
"I'll stay by your side," Rukia promised in return. "I'll stay by your side and strive to strike happiness in you every time." She hugged at his shoulders this time, her hands caught up in Ichigo's glimmering hair and her nose engulfed in the scent of the lake water. She thought about what Jushiro had told her during the day. She promised to herself that would make that new pattern with Ichigo. "I wish I could hold you like this forever."
"Summon me every night, Rukia," said Ichigo. "Summon me, and I'll hold you until the sun rises."
"Why must the sun rise."
"To bring another night with you."
IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
Jushiro and Rukia sat up at the same time in their beds. The sounds of people talking and shuffling around outside filled their room. The sunlight brightened the room's dull interior and glossed over the faces of the sleepy patrons.
"Good morning," yawned Jushiro as he stretched.
Twisting her hands and feet in her stretch, Rukia answered, "Good morning, Jushiro." She sat up and added, "What's all that noise about?"
Jushiro rose from his bed and approached the window with his hand blocking the sunlight from his eyes. "I'm not sure," he mumbled through his sleepy voice. He yawned again. "Everyone is out, and I can barely see anything with so many people blocking the view. Though.." He squinted and noticed the sparkling gold encrusted carriage slowly making its way through the street. Heavy footsteps sounded out and mixed with the voices of the people outside. "I think there's royalty here."
Rukia joined her friend at the window. "Yeah, looks like it," she observed. "But why? This village isn't prestigious enough to even hold a lesser ball."
Shrugging and rubbing at his eyes, Jushiro returned to his bed and sat down. "Well, what matters is that we can get out of town before the streets become overcrowded," he said. "Should I get the horse, Rukia?"
"We should let the horse rest a little longer," suggested Rukia. She picked up her belongings and handed Jushiro his own. "We still need to get another horse from around here. It might be harder with a royal family hanging around."
When both were packed up and ready, they exited the inn and did their best to walk to a nearby tradesman, who had three horses with him. Jushiro fanned himself as he bargained with the tradesman for the spare horse; he brought up the boar meat he had stored in his bag. Rukia, on the other hand, stood by and watched out for any other spectators moving in their direction; no openings came about.
Taking the horse by the reigns, Jushiro led the horse toward a more secluded part of the street. Rukia followed. "Looks like we'll have to go around," said Jushiro. "The horse won't get by, and we'll be asked to move anyway."
"That much is true," replied Rukia as she looked around, too. "We should cross over soon. That way, we can walk around everything with little trouble." She gestured for Jushiro to follow her. As they walked, Rukia and Jushiro bumped in to people who shoved and shuffled along. Rukia and Jushiro did their best to keep from falling.
Once in the middle of the road, a loud voice boomed over the crowd. "Is that Rukia Kuchiki? Famed warrior and Royal Knight of King Genryusai?" People started to look about themselves, whispering and talking aloud amongst one another.
Jushiro noticed Rukia cringe at the voice. "Rukia?" She was resting her hand on her sword. Thinking quickly of their time together, Jushiro didn't recall ever knowing about Rukia's occupation. A Royal Knight was one of the most honorable positions one could hold, and Jushiro felt himself wanting to drop to his knees and acknowledge her position. He tightened his jaw and willed himself to keep himself standing.
"Gerard Valkyrie," Rukia sighed. She looked over in the knight's direction. Jushiro's gaze followed hers. Gerard was a tall and muscled man; his blond hair shined almost as brightly as his armor, a shimmering silver and white suit. A sword sat on his hip, and a shield rested on his back. "What the hell is he doing here?"
Approaching the two, Gerard smiled and greeted, "What brings such an esteemed warrior here? Is it the bread?"
At that moment, people bowed themselves briefly in Rukia's direction. No whisper disturbed the cold air. The tone. Jushiro pursed his lips; his gut was unsettled at Gerard's tight smile. Even if Rukia was a peasant, Jushiro was certain she was worthy of more respect. "You question a noble warrior with such arrogance," defended Jushiro.
"Jushiro," said Rukia, "I can handle this." She stepped in front of Jushiro, her arm over him protectively as she did before.
"Who is this man?" asked Gerard. "He judges me. Me of all people!"
"His name is none of your business," answered Rukia, a bite in her tone. "We're on our way elsewhere. Continue with your duties, Gerard. We won't give trouble." She quickly gestured for Jushiro to keep moving.
"As a great warrior," cut in Gerard, "it's only noble of me to address someone of near equal caliber." He put his hand on his sword. "We never did determine who was the best." At that, people started to talk amongst themselves. Some were noticeably taking out coins and pointing with smiles, grins, and even frowns.
"Picking a fight isn't wise," advised Rukia. She eased her hand to grip the hilt of her sword. Looking at it, Jushiro noticed the symbol of royalty on the very end of the hilt. "Remember, it was our fight that determined I take the place as one of the thirteen Royal Knights of Genryusai's high army."
At the mention of that, Jushiro could see the smile drop from Gerard's face. The air froze once again. Jushiro knew that he wasn't the only one quietly watching this show now. "Rukia," he said, "don't do anything hasty."
"Worry not," replied Rukia. She eased her shoulders. "As a Royal Knight, I have the power to strip Gerard of his reputation and title, even if he's in a sub-kingdom as he is now… I know that I never mentioned my true occupation before, Jushiro, but trust me when I say that my title only gets me in trouble outside of the king's courts."
Gerard grimaced. "Why you—" he started.
"—Why did we stop?" came a high-pitched voice. Suddenly, all in attendance were bowing on their knees.
Turning and bowing, Gerard quickly apologized. "Princess Orihime," he said, "I'm sorry for the delay. It turns out that the king has business in this town."
The princess was dressed in a lime green dress that exaggerated her small waist and wrapped around her body in layers of silk and golden thread. Her orange hair cascaded over her shoulders and down her back in curls. "Valkyrie, I want to keep going," she said. "We're so close! I can feel it."
"My deepest apologies," Gerard repeated.
"Princess Orihime," Rukia greeted as she bowed. Jushiro did the same, but he noticed that Rukia gave the informal bow, a bow only reserved for those who are not equal to the king. He knew that Rukia was taking advantage of the well-known fact that her position was higher than a lower princess.
"Royal Knight Kuchiki," greeted Orihime. She picked up her dress as she walked forward a little. "Gerard, stand." The knight followed the order without fail. "What business does the king have here?"
"His business isn't to be shared," replied Rukia. "I ask that you be more careful when asking about any of his affairs."
Orihime gave a soft frown. "I apologize," she said. "I didn't mean to offend you." She glanced at Jushiro. "Who is your friend? Any friend of the king or his knights is also mine." She gave a small smile in Jushiro's direction.
Coming forward, Jushiro gave his name. "I'm nothing more than a small farmer, your majesty," added Jushiro. "Royal Knight Kuchiki is my dear friend."
"Oh my," Orihime complimented, "you're such a charming character." She returned her gaze to Rukia. "You know, I think I'll stay the night here. Royal Knight Kuchiki, you and your friend must join me for dinner tonight. It'll be grand."
Jushiro glanced at Rukia. He noticed the tightness in her jaw and the sudden stiffness of her shoulders again. "We'd be honored to join you," replied Rukia. "We were just thinking of staying another night ourselves." Jushiro put a hand on Rukia's shoulder.
"Calm yourself," whispered Jushiro. "Whatever it is you hold, don't embrace it now."
"We shall see you tonight," finished Rukia. She gave a small smile and led Jushiro away with the horse, ignoring any other words from the princess. When they were alone in the back-alley ways, Rukia sighed loudly and leaned against one of the buildings. "Of all times…"
Jushiro clutched the reigns of the horse, which was idly standing and looking at Rukia. "Royal Knight," stated Jushiro with a small smile. "That's quite an honorable position." Rukia didn't respond; her hand fiddled with the hilt of her sword. She was biting at her lip and looking intensely in the direction of the cold ground. "I can see the stress in you. We don't have to stay."
Without looking elsewhere from the cold and icy ground, Rukia explained, "Jushiro, I'm sorry. I know that this is untimely, but now that you know, you must understand that even in the presence of my brother, I'm the king's sword first."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean that I am never off duty in front of the king's subjects," answered Rukia. "I carry out everything in the king's name. Every step and word is attached to him, especially on the small, crowded streets. I have to be careful. There was no way I could decline the princess' invitation, even if her family is on thin ice with the higher crown. The people would talk."
"Thin ice?"
"Her family nearly waged war on the king for the high crown, but they were foiled."
"Oh. I see."
Looking at Jushiro this time, Rukia added, "I'm sorry to accept the invitation like that, especially without your input. I should've known that being in public without anonymity would get me in trouble. I'm such a fool." She pushed off of the building and held out her hand to take the horse's reigns. "After this meal, we should leave…Let's get ready for a dinner."
IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
Later that day, Jushiro and Rukia were walking toward the outskirts of town, where they saw the princess' tents set up for the night. Like the princess' dress, the tents were a lavish make up of gold and green. For the event, Rukia wore a new outfit, one befitting of a Royal Knight, while Jushiro wore a finer set of clothes that weren't wrinkled. Once they entered, Jushiro was immediately struck at the amount of riches that decorated the tent. The dinner table was no exception. Thinking about all of the gold reminded him of Grimmjow; he wondered if his blue haired dragon man would be amused at the décor.
Within minutes, they were seated. Jushiro struggled to find comfort in the small chair's support. He could see Rukia looking back at him: her posture was without flaw and her sword was resting on her lap, just out of sight of those who would sit across from them.
"Oh!" came Orihime's voice. "You made it!" She took a seat at the head of the table; Gerard was standing next to her at attention.
"We were excited for tonight," said Jushiro with a smile. "Thank you for inviting us." He shifted again when Orihime's glamorous face made no move to look at him. Her gaze was frozen as if no one had spoken to her at that moment; even her hands hadn't moved from their tight clasp on the table. She was looking past him, at Rukia.
"Thank you for the invitation," said Rukia.
At that, Orihime gave a big smile and snapped her fingers. Servants brought in their course. As Jushiro shifted once again in his seat, he caught sight of Gerard staring at him. Is he angry with me about earlier? The knight winked with a smile that Jushiro thought could really be a grin. Bringing his attention back to his plate, Jushiro gulped and touched at his ring.
"Please, eat," commanded Orihime as she picked up her spoon. Jushiro and Rukia followed along. "Rukia, how do you like the soup? My chef is quite proud of his work tonight."
Rukia gave a small smile. "It's smooth and really has a pleasant blend."
Orihime nodded in approval at the answer. Jushiro sipped carefully at his soup as he watched his host and his friend. Silence made the room heavy in that Jushiro felt his posture failing him from the weight.
"What business do you have in this village, your majesty?" asked Rukia. She sipped at the last of her soup and gave her attention to the princess, who put her spoon down and gave her attention back.
After snapping her fingers for the next course, Orihime replied, "I'm here on personal reasons." She paused to watch her servant put down the next plate. She thanked them. "I've been feeling ill lately, so I came to find the magical lake that cures all."
At that, Jushiro froze. From the corner of his eye, he could see Rukia also stopped herself from grabbing the fork. "Are you so ill?" asked Jushiro. He watched her ignore him and take a bite of her food. The princess' skin was fare as it was in town earlier, and her cheeks weren't reddened or puffed.
"Jushiro asked a question," stated Rukia, who quickly picked up her fork. "What is so serious that it brings you all the way out for the water?"
"So you know of it."
"I am not unaware."
"I've coughed a bit and felt older than usual."
Jushiro frowned. "If you go," said Jushiro, "you should know that it is guarded by two dragons. They're not friendly to strangers."
"He's right," added Rukia. "Are you sure you're prepared for such an encounter?"
Orihime patted her lips with her napkin. "I'm very aware of it all," she replied. She held up her hand and revealed a symbol that belonged to the gods. "I am soulmate to Ichigo the gold, the golden dragon that resides there under the lake water."
Jushiro quickly looked to Rukia, who had her hand on her sword. He quickly put his hand over hers before she could touch the hilt. Rukia's eyes were unmoved, but her body was stiff from her jaw to her arms.
"You have such fine jewelry," commented Jushiro, who saw Rukia struggling to move from under his hand.
"Yes," Rukia dryly agreed. "Very fine. Are you to bargain those for your health?"
The princess shook her head. "Ichigo and I are madly in love," she said as she clasped her hands and gazed at no one. "He wouldn't dare lay a claw on his beloved. Well, I should say fiancé."
Jushiro pressed Rukia's hand down with as much force as possible. "You're engaged?" he asked.
"We're getting married this week," continued Orihime, who babbled on and giggled to her own jokes.
"We should leave," whispered Jushiro to Rukia. "You're not well." Rukia's breathing was becoming uneven. "Rukia."
Orihime suddenly stood, grabbing everyone's attention. "I'm sorry," she said as she gazed down at a part of her meal, "I'll be back in a moment." Gerard asked if she was alright, to which the princess only nodded. She left the table, coughing quietly in her fist.
Before Jushiro could say another word, he was cut off by Gerard's voice. "What a nice ring, Jushiro. Where did you obtain it?"
"Please," said Jushiro, "now is not the time."
"What do you mean?" inquired Gerard. "I'm just complimenting the second most beautiful piece in this room."
Feeling an uncomfortable shiver rush over him, Jushiro clutched at his knee to keep from shivering completely. Raising a brow, Jushiro replied, "I don't see your point."
"You're the most beautiful piece in this room," Gerard said bluntly.
"You gain no ground in trying to befriend me so suddenly."
"Befriend?" replied Gerard. "No, I'm offering a spot on my bed and a place of comfort under my support."
Jushiro grimaced. "You make little sense," he said. "I'm already seeing another, and even if he weren't my partner, you wouldn't be my next choice." He could feel his sense go on alert when Gerard's smile turned into a sneer.
"You—"
"—Enough!" cut in Rukia. "You clearly haven't left behind such old habits, Valkyrie." She stood. "Jushiro and I will be on our way out. You may notify the princess of our leave." Jushiro followed her out of the tent and toward another part of the outskirts.
"Rukia, please," begged Jushiro as he watched her pull out her sword. "Rukia, listen to me. You're not feeling well."
Rukia paused in her trek and looked over at Jushiro. "I need to release some stress," she said. "What we saw in there may not be true, but the thought of it being otherwise makes my entire being boil hotter than the rivers of hell itself." She took up a stance with her sword up. "I would slice at the jewels on her body." She swung and twirled, bringing her sword to point at her imaginary opponent. "I would reveal the truth from one of the broken pieces." She thrust her blade. "Then, she would have to tell me that her words are untrue." She stopped after chopping off the branch of a nearby tree.
"Rukia," said Jushiro as he came closer. He touched at her shaking shoulder. "Say what you need to. I'm here."
"Jushiro," said Rukia, determination heavy in her voice, "if her statements are false, then I shall continue on peacefully. If her statements are true, then I'll declare Ichigo an enemy."
With a shake of his head, Jushiro reassured, "You're Ichigo's only one. You have to be."
"Why would that be?"
"You hold the only gift Ichigo could give to show his dedication," he replied as he gestured to Rukia's necklace. "Last night, I saw Grimmjow. He told me that I was the only one who could link to him at night through the ring. This ring is the only one of its kind. The same has to be for the necklace. You saw Ichigo, didn't you?"
Rukia nodded.
"Then, you're his only," concluded Jushiro. "Your necklace is the only one of its kind. The only link. The princess doesn't have it; she doesn't have his heart."
"Even so," said Rukia. "Dragons have powers beyond our comprehension." She put up her sword again and eyed the mutilated tree. She swung and took off another branch.
"You doubt Ichigo's loyalty?"
"I doubt the princess."
"The princess can't cast such a spell, Rukia."
"Then," said Rukia as she cut off the last branch of the tree, "I must seek the truth." She sheathed her sword. "My chest is on fire, Jushiro. I can't help the anger that is threatening to blind me even now." Looking back at him, Rukia wiped at her face. "I trust you. I trust your judgement. However, I must speak with Ichigo if I'm going to have this resolved within myself."
Nodding, Jushiro walked over to Rukia and laid a hand on her shoulder. "Come," he said, "let's rest here another night."
IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
Rukia entered the lake's area with her eyes open. She glanced back at the lake, spotting where Ichigo had burst from the water and had complained about the ripples. She gave a small smile.
"You summoned me," came Ichigo's voice, "my Rukia."
Turning to his voice, Rukia couldn't help but feel the comforting warmth in her chest and the churn of excitement in her gut. "Ichigo."
"You're breath taking," commented Ichigo as he stepped forward and took Rukia's hand, running his thumb carefully over her fingers and knuckles. "But you have a clouding feeling in your eyes and a stiffness in your arms." He stared in to her eyes as he gently caressed her neck. "What troubles a beautiful rival of the moon like you?"
Sucking in her lips and controlling the sudden shudder of her breathing, Rukia quietly replied, "Your soulmate."
Writer's Rambles
Hey,
I'm just fixing a few errors to this chapter. My thanks from the last update is still there to the people who reviewed last time.
Thanks,
W