Disclaimer: I own nothing
A/N: Thank you for the response, it has been inspiring to know that this obscure pairing is well liked amongst you all. I would like to send my thanks to Lilinoe, my beta who does a wonderful job at editing this.
Summery: "Chichi-Ue, could you tell me how you met Otou-San?" Byakuya asked as he snuggled into his father's embrace. Wrapping his arms around the boy, Sojun smiled fondly at the orange haired man sleeping beside them, "It all began…"
Warnings
Time Travel
AU
Mpreg
Mild Violence
Descriptive Birth
Black Peninsula
III. White Admiration
19.
'Why is it that every time I interact with that man, he manages to confuse me?' The Kuchiki heir sighed as he entered his chamber after the battle. Undressing and preparing himself for a bath he thought back to what Ichigo had told him.
"Sojun," The voice used to say his name, made him immediately look up and meet the man's soul penetrative gaze. There were a handful of times that Ichigo has referred to him by his given name, however this was the first time he had spoken dropping the honorific. For some odd reason, he thought speaking without an honorific suited Ichigo's personality; he always had a tendency to make everything personal.
"I know it makes no sense my background, but does it have to?"
'What a strange thing to say.' The Kuchiki heir thought as he lowered himself into the hot springs. Allowing the heat to sooth his worn muscles and lazily stroking his abdomen, he mulled over the day's events.
"What I have told the Shinigami and yourself has been nothing but the truth, not the whole truth, but nevertheless the truth." Ichigo continued as he lowered himself to sit on the ledge of the roof. "It was the truth when I said that my old man was a Shinigami, powerful one but an idiot, which is why I cannot for the life of me figure out why mother who was smart powerful Quincy would marry him; regardless of her problem. I did have younger siblings, a pair of fraternal twin sisters. I was trained by Shinigami and I had many friends; Human, Hollow, Quincy, Shinigami and everything else in between."
Motioning the Kuchiki heir to take a seat beside him, Ichigo looked at the battle taking place in front of them. "I'm not from around here." He stated simply after a long pause.
Despite the mistrust he felt towards the male, Sojun couldn't stand that faraway look that Ichigo wore. He had seen glimpses of it flash across the man's face as he watched the battles that claimed the skies. "Then where are you from? Where is your home?"
Ichigo made eye contact with him, red eyes possessing no emotion at all before the man sighed and looked back at the Shinigami fighting the Hollows. Adopting a defeated smile he answered, "Home is not a place, it is with people." Looking down at his hands, "And there was no one left."
An uncomfortable silence descended upon the pair, but Ichigo continued, "If you think I'm here to harm the Seireitei, your family and your child; then you are mistaken."
"Why should I believe you?" The Kuchiki heir asked, desperation lightly covering his tone. He wanted Ichigo to be trust worthy; and something deep within his heart and soul told him the man seated next to him bore them no ill will. However feelings and instinct have no place in dealing with the law and duty.
"I've lost everything I cared for, and know nothing I do will bring them back." Ichigo's tone took on a colder and harder note, "With nothing to die for, with nothing to protect; tell me, why should I fight? What could I possibly gain by attacking the Soul Society?" There were many answers that flooded Sojun's mind, but none of them seemed to match Ichigo's character. 'Power' would have been the most obvious option, but the man was a perfect combination of all four races. His power or potential would surpass anything that the Seireitei would have to offer.
"Let me put it into perspective." Ichigo began, interrupting his thoughts. "If you had lost the very things that fueled your reason to fight, what would you do?"
The Kuchiki heir pressed his lips into a thin line. It was a simple question, yet he couldn't answer. If he lost his pride, if he lost this child, what would he do? Revenge would be a petty self-sacrifice; it would only provide purpose momentarily until it's fulfilled. There was nothing sustainable nor honourable about fighting for revenge. The reason he couldn't give an answer was because he didn't have one to begin with. The thought of losing either his pride or his child, sent a chill down his spine. 'Was this what he felt?' He wondered meeting Ichigo's patient and understanding gaze.
"I would be lost." Sojun answered slowly. "I wouldn't know what to do."
"Losing your purpose is worse than losing your life."
"How are you still sane?"
"We are all insane, only the degree of how much varies." The taller male retorted with amusement colouring his tone before adopting a more sober note. "One thing you must understand, no matter how bad the situation is, life goes on." Turning his gaze to meet the clan heir, Sojun felt his heart lurch at the amount of conviction flowing through those ruby eyes. "I failed and I learnt to accept that. Ending my life would be cowardly and it would humiliate those who I represent. I will not soil their image. As long as I'm alive, they will continue to live in my thoughts and memories. It is the least I can do considering it was I who led them to their demise."
The amount of determination flowing from the man was breath taking. Deep down Sojun wished he could have seen how Ichigo was before he lost everything he stood for. It also held an awfully sour note to it, for it was almost palpable the amount of guilt the man carried.
Feeling his child's reiatsu push against his fiercely, the Kuchiki heir smiled to himself. Ever since he held his child's reiatsu back from interacting with Ichigo's, the babe had been throwing a tantrum. 'Children are far more perceptive than we adults can ever hope to be.' He recalled Unohana-Taicho mention randomly during one of his check-ups.
'I really hope you know what you are doing, Little One.' He thought glancing down at this lower abdomen, before releasing his hold on the babe's reiatsu.
The results were instantaneous.
Soon as his child's spiritual energy made contact with Ichigo's again, the taller man's posture relaxed and adopted its laid back demeanor. Looking closely, the male's lips lifted slightly into a small smile. Seeing there was no pretense in that reaction, Sojun relaxed as well; focusing on his child's interaction with the other male.
Sojun sighed as he lowered himself further into the warm spring water, bringing his knees up to his chest and wrapping his arms around them. He really didn't know what think about the entire situation, logic told him to treat the man as a threat; but his instincts, his child, his heart and soul told him Ichigo would not bring him any harm.
"I will tell you the truth. The whole truth." Ichigo stated finally before rising from his seat. "Not today but one day."
"Is this what people call taking a leap of faith?" The young Kuchiki thought out aloud, directing the question at the star that twinkled above him.
His child nudged his reiatsu gently, smiling he nudge back in response and the babe went back to sleep.
'It's terrifying.' He thought, answering his question.
20.
Koga gazed intently at the hell butterfly resting on his right index finger.
It has been about three months since he had left the Seireitei and began dealing with the rebels, and making a small mental calculation, he verified the authenticity of the information.
It would be correct that his spouse had just entered his second trimester.
His father-in-law had announced to the Kuchiki Clan about his son's condition and the elders had sent a Jigokucho to his camp in congratulation. Strangely enough he wasn't bothered by the fact that his husbands hadn't informed him about his pregnancy when he met him on the roof with the Drifter a month and a half ago. Sojun would have known by then, for the symptoms would have made their appearance prompting the man's suspicion. Even if there were no symptoms, Koga remembered his mother mentioning that a carrier would sense when they were pregnant. Not in the sense that they were aware of their change in condition, but there was an inkling in the back of their minds that they were no longer alone. Given they were trying for a child and coupling up with the symptoms, there was a high chance of his husband knowing about his pregnancy and intentionally not informing him.
Koga let out an amused noised as he waved the black butterfly away. He wasn't annoyed or angered at his partner's antics; he wasn't even surprised by it. Although he was amused that the young Kuchiki tried to keep his condition away from him. He had a feeling that the male would have only told him if Koga had noticed the changes of his body. He didn't blame Sojun for his reluctance and defiance. Truth be told, he would have been surprised if the Kuchiki Heir had informed him about the conception.
Leaving his tent and walking away from the centre of the campsite towards the lake they had settled down by, Koga lowered himself to a fallen log on the ground as he poured himself some sake. He held up the cup to toast as a silent congratulation, before downing it in one go. Filling his glass again, he looked at his reflection that rippled in the liquid.
His marriage was a farce. He had accepted that a long time ago, probably before it was even finalized. Being the cause of that failure, he accepted that as well as time passed. It wasn't that he hated Sojun, the man's attitude was pleasant and he was pleasant to look at. He hated what Sojun embodied.
Kuchiki.
Noble.
Privilege.
Although his clan was from nobility as well, unlike the five Great noble clans, they were in the bottom half of the social ladder. He hated how those from five Great noble clans, would be given preferential treatment. He had witnessed it at the academy, at social gatherings and in general day to day activities. Unlike the other smaller clans, his was known for their strong kido based zanpakuto, which was why many of the higher ranking clans would not look down upon them so easily. However that wasn't enough for them to feel less in comparison.
"He's from one of The Five. Obviously he would be strong."
"Put them first, they are much better. It's practically in their blood."
"I'm sorry, I know you're talented but I have to cancel our training session. A student from the Nobel Clan's wanted me to train her."
Ever since he was old enough to understand what being a Shinigami was, he wanted to be one. He wanted to bring his clan the acknowledgement they rightfully deserved, but ever since then, the favouritism towards those from the Great Nobel Five always held him back. He was considered a genius amongst his peers at the academy. He had graduated in three years, setting a new record and had unsealed his zanpakuto just before his official graduation.
All the division were eyeing him and he chose the Sixth, purely because of who the Captain was. Kuchiki Ginrei, the current head of the Kuchiki Clan. He had heard that the Kuchiki heir had also joined the Sixth, so he assumed that if he surpassed the Kuchiki heir he would make a name for himself and his clan. It was a known fact that children of the Nobel Clans would receive private training and be allowed to graduate early. However he hadn't expected the situation to turn into what it did.
As expected he ascended the ranks quiet easily throughout the years and so did Sojun. The man did fight well despite his ailment, but Koga knew he was stronger. Therefore when the lieutenant position became available and they challenged each other, it was expected that Koga would win the match. However before the match could be concluded, Kuchiki-Taicho interrupted it, claiming it was a spar and not a battle to the death. He admitted that he went all out and may have been a 'bit too brutal' on the other male, but he wanted to show the world and his Captain that he was as talented and strong as he claimed himself to be.
Instead of acknowledgement, he received humiliation. The Kuchiki Head claimed that he was too headstrong, overconfident and lacked the control needed for the position of lieutenant. Therefore he would award his son the position instead of Koga despite him winning the match. The underlying resentment that Koga held for the Nobel Five reared its ugly head, and made the man loath everything about the Noble Clans. His need to prove himself grew along with his hate, to a point it was almost was pathological. Had he been without the goal to prove to the Noble Clans that just because they were on top of the food chain doesn't mean there wasn't something bigger to top them; he would have taken Ginrei's criticism as constructive.
Which was why the old man didn't know about Koga's hate towards his clan, and offering his son's hand in marriage was not a wise decision in any sense. The Kuchiki Clan Council had received a report about their fight, and witnessing his power, it wasn't shocking to have a proposal sent their way. The Nobel Five wanted to stay on top, and to do that they married their children to different clans. Koga had a feeling they wanted to save face of their heir's defeat in the spar, by marrying them to gain some control over his person. Being from a noble family he wasn't offended by the clan politics and intentions. Marrying for love was for the Shiba's, lesser known clans and the commoners.
It was obvious his clan would accept the proposal, refusing one of the Noble Five was unheard of. At the time it was the most difficult thing he had done; to swallow his pride and marry into the clan he detested and marry the very person who was the cause of his humiliation, his anger and his wounded pride. What made it worse was that he had to take the Kuchiki name and wear their accessories. He didn't want to be a Kuchiki. It pained him to be with the person who had everything provided for him while he slaved away to earn the same acknowledgment the Kuchiki had handed to him on a silver platter.
Despite who his husband was, Koga couldn't forgive the man or treat him with respect. The resentment and hate he held prevented him from being warm and caring towards his spouse. He realized that if he couldn't explicitly put the Great Noble Clans down through an honest battle, since they claim he lacked many things, he would break them slowly from the inside. Gradually it became known throughout the Seireitei that Kuchiki-Taicho was treating him unfairly and his son wasn't qualified for his position. He even manage to convince the Clan of their heir's incompetence, lowering Sojun's standing during meetings. He took out his frustration on the man through the union, since he couldn't show it when they were Shinigami.
The ceramic cup in his hand shattered. Staring at his now sake soaked hand he sighed.
Truth be told, he didn't hate Sojun, he hated the Kuchiki Heir. He would have treated the man right had he been anyone other than the very thing he hated.
"And it seems that I am the Soul King's cosmic joke." He muttered to no one, trying to swallow the fact.
The fact his child was to be the Kuchiki Heir.
'Irony.' He thought, now drinking directly from the bottle.
Regardless of his burning hate, he couldn't bring himself to hate his child. After all the child would be half of him, and the babe would grow to become the very thing he wanted to break. Even though he didn't hate the child, he couldn't bring himself to care for the babe either. There was a strange sense of apathy that flowed through his veins when he thought about it. He never really gave much thought about the concept of a child, he always considered it another thing the Kuchiki clan wanted done and he was their lapdog. However since the child has passed the first trimester and was on it's way, Koga didn't know what to think or feel about it.
Emptying the sake bottle over his conundrum, he went back to the base.
He still hated the Kuchiki that would never change. He was neither the ideal husband nor did he want to be to the Kuchiki Heir. However the one thing he knew was that he wasn't a failure. He loathed failure just as much he loathed them, so he wouldn't shirk his duties as a father because of his hate. He wouldn't hate the child, neither would he love him or her; instead he would provide the protection they required and that would extend towards their carrier. Despite the resentment he carried towards his husband, it was beneath Koga to antagonize those who carry, nor was he the type to abandon one of his own.
21.
"Honestly, you have to calm down." Sojun mutter glaring at his growing torso.
Ever since the announcement of his pregnancy was made to the clan council, the news spread like wildfire. Congratulations were sent from all sides of the Seireitei, from formal letters to casual conversations. Not that he minded the attention, but he felt a little more exposed and a little less safe. However that uncomfortable feeling was nothing compared to the constant nagging from the council, to stay behind the desk. He understood the reason behind the concern, but he couldn't stand the idea of being seated while there was a war taking place outside the wall. He knew he lacked the fighting spirit many Shinigami possessed, but that didn't mean he wanted to do nothing. At the end of many arguments the council had agreed in allowing him to do field work, but the frequency and the quantity of work would be reduced. Meaning he would continue performing his supporting role away from the heart of the battle, and he should only do so once a week instead of every few days.
However those terms were only present until he entered his third trimester. Sojun knew the clan and his father would not allow him to set foot outside the Kuchiki Manor, let alone the Seireitei, for his Shinigami duties. Dreading the inevitable suffocation, he flash stepped to a nearby roof in Rukongai to watch the battle.
The only good news he received during this entire situation was a month ago, where Unohana Taicho confirmed the gender of the babe.
He was having a son.
Although he had his suspicions, the confirmation left a pleased smile on his face. He wasn't partial towards which gender he wanted the babe to be, but he had a small reservation to the physical appearance of the child.
"Relax." Ichigo chuckled lightly, "That babe's reiatsu is literally the twin of yours, so there is a high chance he will end up looking like yourself."
The seeds of fear immediately dissipated when he recalled Ichigo's voice from one of their previous conversation. Once he re-built his confidence in the other male, he informed about feeling his babe's reiatsu and sensing Ichigo's interaction with his child. The larger male smiled sheepishly and fumbled out an explanation about him being a susceptible to children. The Kuchiki heir never doubted the male's claim, for he had seen many times how Ichigo interacted with the children of Rukongai. There was always a stray child who had nowhere to seek shelter during the battle, and the man went out of his way to ensure their safety. Even after the end of the battle Sojun would see the man, more often than not, leaving the grounds carrying a child in his arms. Out of curiosity, He had followed the man, and found Ichigo re-uniting the child with either their family or friends. Something that was not required to be done, but never the less he did. Sojun smiled, even though the male was a dangerous combination of all four races with limitless power and control, it was nothing short but amusing to think that the man was a big softy towards little children.
'He would make a good father.' The Kuchiki thought idly as he waited for his partner to show.
Along the way, Sojun had come to realize that he had grown accustomed to Ichigo's presence and begun to seek it out as well. It wasn't hard to like the man, he practically embodied power, confidence and protection. Though the first two elements held little to no value for the Kuchiki, it was the latter that drew him to the male. It was strange, but he would always feel calm and safe in the man's presence. Not that he would admit it, but Ichigo's reiatsu acted as his security blanket. Maybe it was the pregnancy talking, either way Sojun liked being with the male.
Which was part of the reason why he didn't want to be confined to the walls of the Seireitei. He was always restless and agitated when he was not beside the male, he doesn't know the reason behind it but he assumed it was his son's feelings transferring through to him.
Wincing slightly at another sharp kick, he let out a tired huff.
He expected to feel his son's movement's around this time; he was half way through the second trimester after all. What he didn't expect was the child to be this active. Ever since he could feel the child's reiatsu, Sojun noticed the babe would always seek out Ichigo's when he was away from the field and within the Seireitei. It did concern the Kuchiki Heir, it was typical behaviour expected from an unborn child to seek out his non-carrier parent. However considering what took place over the months it wasn't surprising his son thought Ichigo was his father.
He played with the babe's reiatsu and wrapped them both with his, when a particular spiritual pressure was malicious. Sojun was aware of how Ichigo calmed and comforted his son and himself during their last meeting with Koga. He was also aware of how his son acted in front of his actual father and he couldn't help but worry about the future. The young Kuchiki hoped the babe's instinct would not be too confused and hamper his growth. His child was afraid of his actual father and thought another man as his sire. It was a complicated situation, and it would only further complicate itself once the babe was born.
Feeling another flurry of restless kicks, he sighed. It was already complicated enough.
Previously Sojun was able to lock in the seeking reiatsu of his son as he slept, but once the kicks started to become more noticeable sleeping was virtually impossible. The boy would shift around restlessly, punching or kicking his current abode. Which was inside Sojun. Ultimately he had given up trying to sleep and instead waited until the babe wore itself out to grab some much desired rest.
"I always knew you would be a handful."
"Who's a handful?" a familiar voice cut it.
Upon that, his son's reiatsu spiked up and the kicking returned with vigour. He hadn't been to the field for a week and since then his son was making his life 'very difficult' by searching for Ichigo's presence. Placing his hands on his stomach and letting out a tired huff, he replied, "Him." Before elaborating, "He is always impatient to meet you."
Ichigo stared at him for a moment, "May I?" he asked as he raised a hand towards the Kuchiki's belly.
Sojun nodded slowly, watching carefully as the man placed his palm against his stomach. The kicking was strong enough to be felt through his shihakusho, and there was a brief pause that took over them as Ichigo did so. As expected, the babe sensing where the male had placed his palm and kicked that area. The taller male let out such a gentle smile, Sojun couldn't help but flush slightly at it.
After a few minutes has passed, Ichigo's palm still flat on him his stomach, the Kuchiki felt a sudden thick wave of the other man's reiatsu wrap around him. It wasn't thick enough to cause any discomfort but the potency was such that he knew, his uniform would be saturated to a point it would lightly emit the man's signature. Sojun had seen Shinigami do this to their children as a form of protection, so if they wandered off or were taken away they would be able to sense their child or someone else would know who the child belong to. Though it wasn't common it was done among lovers as well as a form of claim, which made his cheeks tinge with red. Sojun assumed Ichigo wasn't aware of this for the man seemed nonchalant about doing it, and it was a pleasant feeling so he didn't have the will to stop the other male. Though it would cause a few problems when other's sensed Ichigo's reiatsu on him.
However it wasn't that common, it was only those whose reserves would allow it, for it took a lot of control and reiatsu to soak a person. He would just explain the male was fighting and he happened to be within the vicinity. Flimsy but plausible.
"That should calm him down." Ichigo said after a few moments, "When I'm not there, the babe would be able to sense my reiatsu from your uniform, so if he kicks up a storm at home, just place the garment near your belly." Directing his attention to Sojun's midriff, "Listen up brat. You are currently stay in an all-expense paid apartment. If you want your needs met on a daily basis with the same quality you better allow your landlord, your father, some rest."
Sojun let out a short laugh. His son's reiatsu stilled and withdrew as if he were sulking and he gave a petulant kick at Ichigo's palm as if to communicate his unhappiness.
"Don't give me that attitude brat." Ichigo replied, "You misbehave, I won't play with you next time we meet." For which his son kicked his hand in what they interpreted as anger.
"Oi." Ichigo huffed.
The conversation went on, and Sojun watch the two of them in amusement. It was inappropriate and would land himself in a mess if someone made an issue out of it, but right now he couldn't care less.
He was happy.
22.
Ever since he first spotted Aizen on the battlefield, he couldn't help but follow the man's movements every time the Shinigami made an appearance. Obliviously if he sensed Sojun's reiatsu in the area he would abort his personal mission to approach the Kuchiki. Though since the male had entered his second trimester he hasn't made much of an appearance. Not to say he was disappointed, it made following the brunette much easier, but he still missed the Kuchiki's presences. They had grown close after the somewhat clearing the suspicion about his origins.
'You're on borrowed time, King.' His sword spirit drawled, 'Sort this shit soon, so you and your man won't have soap opera worthy breakup.'
'I'm not in a relationship with him to have a break up.'
'Skipping right passed the 'your man' part.'
'I've long since given up on correcting your delusion.' And with that he shut off the connection to his sword spirit, placing his focus back to Aizen.
The man was obviously not as powerful as he was back in his timeline, but after some careful observations, Ichigo assessed that the man had considerable power given his current rank and age. It did take him aback seeing the once power hungry Shinigami as a simple, sane and kind seated officer. He hadn't been made a lieutenant yet by Shinji, which was a small blessing in disguise. For once, he understood what his Shinigami friends talked about. From the way the man interacted with his subordinates it was impossible to see the Aizen he knew. The man was caring, compassionate and considerate of others. He would look after the Shinigami placed under his authority, and other officers would always refer to him with respect and admiration. It made Ichigo secretly glad the man decided to show his true face when they invaded the Seireitei all those years ago. It would have been virtually impossible to prove that Aizen was the mastermind behind the whole plan, with the personality he used to interact with them.
Seeing their behaviour Ichigo worried that Sojun had fallen prey to Aizen's 'Nice Guy' act; given he was a criminal mastermind with a god complex under that façade.
"Aizen Sosuke?" Sojun repeated, clearly not seeing the relevance of the name, "From what I remember, he recently was made fourth seat of the fifth division. Pleasant man to be around and talented from what I've heard."
"You don't interact with the other officers?" Ichigo asked, "I'm sorry, that sounded too much of personal question. I was just wondering, since he seems to be close with most of the other lieutenants."
"No. It's fine." The Kuchiki waved his hand dismissively, "Apart from the official lieutenant meetings and gatherings, I have very little time to socialize with them. My status as heir and my ailment does take up much of my free time."
"That's unfortunate." Ichigo compromisingly replied, 'Not really.' He added silently.
Stealthily following his target on the battle field, he clamped his reiatsu tightly. Aizen was talented and even though his level of skill wasn't confirmed, Ichigo wasn't taking a chance with the man. Using a conscious effort to control his reiatsu, he watched the brunet's movements. He knew it was morbid to wish that the man was evil, but if he did by some form of miracle turn out to be good, Ichigo would have to isolate himself from the man until he could handle being in the same vicinity without the strong urge to kill him.
So far the brunet hadn't done anything that was even vaguely suspicious, but this was only observing his movement outside the Seireitei.
Watching the man cut down another hollow, Ichigo promised, "I am watching you."
'One wrong move and I will bring you down.'
23.
When the word first came to Sojun that his husband was charged with murder, he didn't know what to feel about the situation.
Since he had returned from his mission, he had noticed a change in Koga's attitude. The male neither sought him out nor did he intentionally antagonized him. If anything the man had begun ignoring him, for which Sojun was secretly grateful for. Although he would catch the male staring at him from time to time, especially at his enlarged torso. The first time they met after the meeting on the roof top, was when he was seven months along, so he was considerably large. Koga had simply paused for a moment studying his frame before walking towards his chambers without so much as a greeting. Sojun suspected he was informed of his pregnancy prior to their meeting due to the lack of surprise, but the lack any scathing remark had unsettled him deeply.
Despite Koga's vindictive nature that he was well acquainted with, Sojun didn't believe the man was capable of killing in cold blood. Koga loved his position and power in the Seireitei far too much to throw it all away on murder. If he wanted to destroy someone he would break them down internally, humiliate them and ruin their image, similarly to what he did with Sojun. Murder was unrefined and as far as he knew, Koga was never unrefined. Although he was rather pleased with his husband's predicament, Sojun could not allow a man to be persecuted for a crime he did not commit. It stood against his pride as a Kuchiki and it was fundamentally wrong. Though he detested the man, he would detest himself further if he allowed the trial to proceed.
Placing a hand on his belly, he hopelessly wished to be with Ichigo. The man's calming presence worked wonders on his rattled nerves and his son wasn't much better. Ever since he had entered the third trimester, he wasn't allowed out of the Seireitei. His babe had thrown his version of a tantrum, by kicking and lashing his reiatsu, but as a week flew by the boy had understood he wasn't going to meet the other male anytime soon. It pained Sojun to feel the once vibrant reiatsu settle down into a far more sullen version of itself. What made matters worse was in Koga's presence his son would withdraw further into himself, scaring the Kuchiki heir for his child's well-being.
Not a week had passed when Sojun and his father were sharing a cup of tea, when word came informing them that Kuchiki Koga escaped his confinement and had killed a number of Shinigami officials. Soon as his father dismissed the servant, Sojun allowed his fear overtake him and all he remembered was his vision fading into blackness.
When he came to his senses, he saw his father and Unohana-Taicho kneeling on either side of his futon.
"Kuchiki Fukutaicho, you have to be careful." The fourth division captain stated looking into his eyes with her serene smile. "The stress of these recent events has aggravated your sickness."
Sojun nodded slowly, before feeling for his son's reiatsu. Noticing the unnatural quietness about it, he rapidly asked, "What about my son? Will my son be alright?"
Unohana raised he hand motioning him to stop, "Calm down, your child is fine. Although he was a bit worried at first. He wouldn't allow anyone near unless it was your father." Taking a small pause she added, "That outburst must have tired him, for it was fairly powerful given his current age."
Turning towards his father, the younger Kuchiki sent a small smile towards his father, who in return placed a hand over his. Unohana motioning to stand up, "I recommend bed rest for some time and less stress, although that would be impossible given the recent events." Sojun nodded and thanked her before she left his chamber.
Staring at the ceiling with heavy thoughts and taking comfort in his father's presence, he came to a decision. "Otou-Sama, I cannot stay here any further."
His father met his gaze but didn't say anything, taking it as a sign to continue, "Koga has not been himself lately and these recent developments are in no way improvements. You are aware of his attitude towards me, and I have a feeling he would have considered me as abandoning him to the trial."
After a brief pause, Ginrei nodded in agreement, "We could ready one of the family residences for you and have a guard assembled if he does come after you."
Sojun shook his head, sitting up and placing his hand on his stomach, "I'm sorry Otou-Sama, but you and I both know just how powerful he is. Especially with his zanpakuto's ability, stopping him would be problematic."
"Then what do you have in mind?"
Fidgeting slightly, "There is one person, Koga hesitates to approach and I would be safe with him until this is over."
"You cannot possibly mean-" Ginrei began, soon as he realized who his son was referring to.
"I do." Sojun cut it father off, "There is no one else apart from the Head Captain who could defend against Koga's ability."
"How are you certain that he will help let alone defend you from Koga?"
"He has done it once before." Recalling the conversation between Ichigo and Koga, "Additionally, he is quite fond of my son."
His father raised an eyebrow at the latter bit, but he didn't say anything. Sojun knew his father wasn't so welcoming of Ichigo, but given the circumstances, there wasn't anyone else he could seek refuge in. 'There was no one else you wanted to seek refuge in.' a traitorous voice whispered silently in the back of his mind.
After a few moments of uncomfortable tension, his father let out a breath of resignation, "Alright." He agreed finally, "However I am escorting you." Sojun suppressed the smile threatening to explode on his face, his son's reiatsu flickered awake clearly curious of the sudden good mood he was in.
"Do you have a method of contact him?"
"I have an idea of where he is."
24.
Sojun panted as they rested on top of a roof in Rukongai. For the past two days they have been traveling south towards the furthest districts, they would have made it sooner but in his current state his stamina had withered to the state of when he first entered the Gotei Thirteen. His father watched over him, passing him a container of warm water to drink. They had decided to travel by night and rest during the day; the fewer people who saw him, the less chances of Koga knowing where he was. This was the reasoning why only his father accompanied him. However it was the middle of the winter season which was doing him no favours in terms of his health.
They were headed for the 78th District of South Rukongai. Sojun had noticed that no matter where they met up for battles, Ichigo would head towards the southern districts after they were concluded. He also remembered asking the man about his current accommodation and received one of his irritatingly vague answers.
"I am fond of canines." He replied impishly, "The loyalty they possess towards their owners is something I have come to respect. So I settled for a place that represented them"
The only district that had a connection with anything canine related in the southern districts was the 78th.
Inuzuri.
Sojun was willing to bet his pride that it was where Ichigo resided. Though his father was far from pleased that his son was going far away into essentially a lawless land.
When they arrived in the district it was sunset. Flickering onto the tallest building in the area, both nobles masked their presence. As suspected, it wasn't hard to confirm their assumption that this was where the male resided; for as they patrolled the town, there was residue of the males spiritual signature left at random places. The strongest presence was on the highest roof top in the district. Glancing at his father to silently inform the man of what he had in mind, Sojun let his reiatsu spike.
He didn't have much to let out, but the effort wasn't in vain, because a second later Ichigo appeared before them.
His son's reiatsu immediately went into a frenzy once it sensed Ichigo and the vigorous kicking returned with a vengeance. Being tired from the strenuous journey coupled with the sudden surge of his son's spiritual energy triggered another coughing fit. Since Sojun began interacting with Ichigo, the frequency of the coughing fits had reduced over the time. When he went for his routine check-ups, Unohana-Taicho commented that his lungs have shown some improvement. He never really paid much attention to the change, since the pregnancy kept him pre-occupied. However since he had entered the third trimester and been away from Ichigo, his condition had taken a turn for the worse.
Losing his centre of gravity, Sojun felt himself falling to the ground. Only to be stop by two familiar strong arms wrapping around his person. Smiling weakly at Ichigo in gratitude, he allowed darkness to consume him once more.
Ginrei was hardly surprised when he felt his grandchild reach out for the Ryoka. From the report he had read from other Shinigami, his son and the drifter had spent some time together during battle. His son had confirmed his suspicion earlier saying that the male was familiar with his child, but he didn't expect the bond to be this developed. It was almost as if his grandson saw the male as his sire instead of Koga and Ginrei didn't know what to feel about that.
'Lesser of the two evils.' He couldn't help but think.
When he saw Sojun faint with exhaustion, Ginrei cursed. He was proud his grandchild was this strong but the child's distress caused more harm than good to his carrier. Preparing to flare his reiatsu to calm the babe as he reached out to catch his son, it caught him by surprise when the Ryoka himself flared his more potent reiatsu, catching his son and placing a palm on his belly. The clan head was about to tell the man to let go of his son, when he realized the babe's reiatsu didn't flare up. Instead it was wrapping with the drifter's in comfort.
"Hush, you." The male spoke looking at where his palm was, "Your father is alright, he is just a bit tired." Pausing for a bit as if he was receiving a response, "Don't worry, I'll look after him. Now you go to sleep and behave. Your dad need you to be on your best behaviour to recover." Much to his surprise he felt the child's reiatsu quiet down upon command.
Seeing his confusion, the taller male smiled and explained, "It's a natural response that unborn children use to call their sire when their carrier is in distress." Gesturing to sleeping figure in his arms, "Normally it is meant for small areas, since the child's reiatsu is weak, but if they are strong enough it is possible for them to reach quite a distance."
"You seem well versed in this." Ginrei stated perceptively.
The Ryoka shrugged his shoulders, neither confirming nor denying the observation. Instead he scooped his son into a bridal carry before saying, "Follow me."
They stopped at a dilapidated shrine at the bottom of the cliff, placing Sojun down on wooden floor outside, Ichigo turned towards the Captain. Catching his questioning gaze and tenseness of the jaw, he flippantly stated, "Don't worry, I don't live here." Looking at the sleeping Kuchiki, "I just want to take you both to a place we could talk."
Shifting his gaze back to Ginrei, Ichigo adopted a more serious tone, "So tell me, why are you here?" Glancing at Sojun, "Considering his condition, the threat of rebels and hollow invasion; something must have happened in the Seireitei for you to come to me."
"Don't think so highly of yourself." Ginrei responded clearly unsettled by the situation. The incident with Koga, and his son's safety was deeply troubling him.
"Then tell me what wrong." Ichigo replied adopting a less threatening tone.
Realizing his error of snapping at the boy, Ginrei sighed. They had come seeking this man's protection and he did deduce the gravity of the situation correctly. Though it bruised his pride, he need the Drifter's aid, since he couldn't capture Koga and protect his son at the same time. He needed to guarantee his son's safety and if it was in the form of this strange man, then so be it. Seeing the way his grandchild interact with him, it was safe to assume his son was in good hands.
"I've been informed that you have met Sojun's husband." He began, watching the Ryoka closely. Seeing the man briefly wrinkle his face in distaste, Ginrei relaxed a bit at the knowledge of their common adversary.
"Kuchiki Koga." Ichigo supplied and the Captain nodded in confirmation.
"This past week has been very stressful for my son." He supplied, "Koga has been accused of murder, which we suspect was frame up. Unfortunately the man couldn't wait patiently until we could uncover the false evidence and broke free, killing the officials who framed him in the process."
Ichigo nodded soaking up the information, but remained silent waiting for the Captain to continue, "Koga's zanpakuto, has a peculiar ability in which it turns the opponent's sword against the wielder. Although he hasn't achieved Bankai as of yet, that ability alone is problematic. So seeking refuge and protection for my son and his unborn, we have come to you."
There was a brief pause where they both assessed each other, Ichigo broke the stillness by questioning, "I understand the threat he can pose to the Seireitei, but that doesn't explain why you think your son would be in such peril."
Ginrei almost smiled in approval, the boy was sharp, "Is it safe to assume that you are aware that my son and his husband are not on good terms?" Ichigo nodded slowly not breaking eye contact.
"It is highly probable that Koga blames the lack of support from the Kuchiki Clan on my son and myself."
"But isn't the child your son is currently carrying his? Surely he isn't so vindictive as to harm his carrier and his child."
"Given the circumstance I am not going to bet my son's life on an assumption."
Understanding that Ginrei wasn't talking as a Captain, or as a Clan Head but as a Father, Ichigo made-up his mind.
"I will protect your son and his child. I promise."
Ginrei bowed his head in gratitude.
25.
Taking in the male's appearance as he sipped his tea slowly to warm himself. Gone was the black hair and red eyes, and in its place was sunset orange and warm amber.
'Suits him.' Sojun thought at he studied the males feature.
Waking up, Sojun felt disoriented. Blinking away the mental fog that crowded his mind, he tried to recall what had happen. Looking around and not recognizing his current location, he immediately checked on his child. His son was unnaturally calm, his reiatsu flittered around the room indicating happiness and contentment. Feeling around he understood, that he was in Ichigo's abode, for the man's reiatsu was everywhere but he felt a concentration of it approach him and his son stirred awake.
Just as he guess, Ichigo arrived into his room, wearing a plain yukata, bringing a cup of steaming tea. Kneeling down beside him and handing him the warm liquid, "Drink, it has some herbs to calm you down." Inhaling the scent of the tea Sojun recognized the herbs used.
Watching him sip the tea, Ichigo broke the quiet that settled around them, "Your father explained the circumstance of your arrival to me."
The Kuchiki heir nodded and bowed his head, "Thank you."
"He also explained that it was you who was adamant to come this way and seek my aid." Meeting his gaze, Ichigo continued, "Since you trust me with your life and your child, I should return the sentiment."
Closing his red eyes and adopting a slight pinched looked, Sojun gasped as the man's appearance changed. Though his complexion hadn't changed, his hair lightened into an uncommon shade of orange and when he opened his eyes the red bled away into a soft amber. "I used the previous appearance as a counter measure, since my original hair colour is a bit too unique. I would have informed you earlier about this disguise but there was never an appropriate time or place."
Understanding the reasoning, Sojun nodded in agreement and acceptance.
There was an odd charm about living with Ichigo, Sojun mused as he watch the male chop some firewood outside the cave. Life was tougher, but despite the roughness of the living conditions, but it made him feel at ease. For once in his life, Sojun didn't have to worry about how he held himself. There wasn't anyone to watch his every step, to spin rumours about his actions or feeling the almost unbearable pressure of being the Kuchiki Heir. For once in his life he felt liberated.
Taking in his surroundings, he studied his current living accommodation. The cave wasn't naturally formed from what he could see. The walls and roof were far too smooth for it to be done by the environment and there were rooms and a hot spring included. When he had asked Ichigo about the construction, he has flippantly replied that when he first arrived to Soul Society he wanted find a suitable lodging where he could live in peace, but his spiritual energy would gather too much attention if he lived amongst the citizens.
"My control over my reiatsu is limited." He had explained, "I cannot keep it under my thumb like you do yours, so I have to let it loose, but I can control how far it can spread." Patting the entrance of the cave, "I lined all the openings with Sekkiseki Stone, so that none of the spiritual energy I release would escape the cave."
"How did you come across this place?"
Scratching his chin thoughtfully, "I saw this opening by chance, but the cave was shallow and it was useless to do anything with it." Gesturing to the surroundings, "So I blew it out with my reiatsu and carved the place." Pointing in the direction of the hot spring, "The underwater spring was present, but I had to blow a hole in the roof for the steam to escape and cut out a drain. Was a bit tricky but nothing too difficult."
Sojun could only stare blankly at the man.
"I carved you a room as well, while you were asleep." He added later pointing to one of the holes leading from the main den. "It's opposite mine, so if you need anything let me know."
"Thank you." Sojun whispered weakly, still trying to digest the information he had just heard.
"No problem."
'I bet.' He thought sarcastically as he moved slowly towards his room.
Like the rest of the cave, the room was covered with tatami mats and the décor was very Spartan. A new futon was folded in the corner, a chest that acted as a cupboard and grooves that were carved into the earth acted as shelves. Holes were located strategically to allow the natural sunlight to illuminate the room and glass was fitted to prevent any water from leaking in. At the entrance was an old, used shoji door, which seemed to belong to another building, none the less it was functional. It was small, but it was sufficient.
Glancing at Ichigo, who was still chopping the week's worth of firewood, Sojun let a soft smile grace his face. The man was a typical Alpha male. Confident and competent. There were skills he wasn't so talent in, such as repairing clothing and his cooking was basic. However when it came to the rougher work, he would provide quite efficiently. It had taken a fortnight, for both parties to reach an agreement on the work. Ichigo would do the heavier work, such as gathering firewood, hunting and cleaning the hot spring; while Sojun took over the cooking, cleaning and other light maintenance work.
Basking in the day's sunlight and the steady thrumming of Ichigo's reiatsu, the young Kuchiki relaxed. Since he was in Ichigo's constant presence, his illness had subsided to its previous dormant state and his son was content with the change in living arrangements. Although he would kick up a fuss here and there during the night when they parted to separate rooms, but would quickly settle down since it was more a half-hearted tantrum in comparison to his previous crazed state at the Kuchiki Manor. Sojun was taken aback when he realized his son could sense Ichigo moving further away in the cave. The cavern was practically saturated with the male's reiatsu, amateur reiatsu sensors would not be able to pin-point his exact location. He knew children were more sensitive to reiatsu, but he was not expecting it to such an extent.
'Could be considered prodigious.' He thought rubbing his enlarged stomach, smiling at the kick on his palm. 'That he got from him.' Sojun thought taking a darker tone.
"What are you planning for dinner?" Ichigo interrupted his musing.
"I was thinking of having some of that beast you caught yesterday."
"It's a pig, no matter how you look at it. It is a pig."
"There is no way that was a pig." Sojun shot back, recalling the previous day's event.
Realizing he was never going to win this argument, Ichigo changed the topic, "I remember you saying that we needed more vegetables." Looking at the sun, "There is still time before the market closes, so let me grab a quick bath before we go."
Sojun smiled to himself, 'No matter how competent you are, you still can't select the fresh fruits and vegetables.'
Nodding in agreement, he stood up and made his way to the entrance. Although he was advised not to flash step over large distances, he figured a few movements here and there wouldn't do any harm. The entrance was only accessible through shunpo, steps made out of kido or if anyone was brave enough to scale the cliff wall. Ichigo had chosen it due that reason, he didn't want any civilians or animals to stumble in. Washing the cup and making the preparations for dinner, he waited for Ichigo to finish his bath.
After about fifteen minutes he heard the other male's voice call from behind him, "I'm ready." Smiling slightly, Sojun nodded washing his hands and fixing his hair. He no longer wore his kenseikan, since it would garner unnecessary attention, but the lack of their presence was rather difficult to become accustomed to. Allowing Ichigo to hoist him into a bridal carry and shunpo outside the cave. It was the only way he could carry Sojun, and since they were a considerable distance away from the main town, it wasn't advisable for the Kuchiki to use flash step.
Feeling the wind zip across his face and listening to Ichigo's steady heartbeat, Sojun ducked his head away hiding the red tinge that coloured his cheeks.
Once arriving at the heart of the town, Ichigo landed in a lonely street and gently lowered the Kuchiki in arms to the floor. Nodding at the taller man in thanks, they made their way to the busy market place.
"Ichigo-san!" People shouted his name from time to time, approaching him to speak. Ichigo was well known due to his hair colour and acting as some form of law enforcement. The times he had accompanied the male to the town, Sojun was surprised to see the man become so involved in helping others. Sojun wasn't well known among them, since he was still new to the area, but people did throw him some curious looks. He was well aware of his appearance, so it wasn't surprising to see some men leer at him, but they didn't approach him out of the respect and fear they held towards Ichigo.
Approaching the stand which was owned by a jovial old woman he had come to know, Sojun greeted her with a small smile and nod of his head before shifting through her stock. Not that she had the best vegetable or fruits in the market, considering the poverty of the area, her goods were of reasonable quality, and he felt more comfortable dealing with her than the others. She had some sense of decency that the other vendors sorely lacked.
"I'm sorry, but I'm not interested." The Kuchiki turned towards the voice. He saw Ichigo shaking his head at small group of young prostitutes, consisting of both male and female. Although a majority of the town's population avoided Ichigo out of fear and respect, the resident commercial sex workers somehow possessed the courage to approach him.
"Are you sure? Boss says it's on the house for you, since you kinda saved us by ridding him of a bad customer." One of the young boys whined.
"Yes, I am." He replied simply, "Now scram, I have work to do and so do you." Catching the innuendo the group laughed and sauntered to their designated location waving flirtatious goodbyes. Seeing Ichigo chuckle lightly as he slowly approach the stand where he was, Sojun felt a familiar tightness in his chest. First he thought that it was his sickness acting up, but there was no expected coughing fit that would usually follow, then he realized it only appeared if he saw someone approaching Ichigo in a non-platonic way. Pressing his lip into a thin line he glared at the fruits and vegetables in front of him.
"I wouldn't be getting jealous over a few boys and girls, child." The old woman giggled at his questioning gaze, "They're just children and your man is their handsome hero."
Sojun fought an embarrassed flush as he wrangled out, "He is not my man."
She placed a weathered pipe in her mouth and lit it up, "Really now?" Drawing a long breath from the pipe and releasing it slowly, "Well, you sure look at him as if he was though."
This time he blushed deeply as he shouted, "You must be imagining things."
Chuckling, "I maybe old but I ain't mad, child." Taking another puff, "If it helps, that man only has eyes for you as well."
Turning a deeper shade of red he went back to selecting his goods, muttering under his breath about delusional nosy old women. Engrossed with his feelings and thoughts, he jumped when he felt a palm on his forehead and Ichigo's voice, "Sojun, are you alright? Your face is quite red."
The old woman laughed as Sojun shot her a glare before smiling tightly at him, "I'm alright, just overheated, that all."
26.
It had been a month and a half since he first started living at Ichigo's home. His father would regularly meet them outside the shrine at the bottom of the cliff. Although Ichigo trusted his father and himself, he wasn't comfortable to bring the man into his abode, for which Sojun accepted as part of the Ichigo's wariness of the Shinigami and his own anti-social tendencies. His father had met them earlier that day, informing them that they had located Koga in the Living World and that he and the Head Captain were going to apprehend him. It was good news, considering his due date was rapidly approaching and he had to return to the Seireitei to give birth. However as he was packing away his clothes, he didn't feel happy about the situation.
Glancing at the room that held more happy memories in a month and a half, than his one at the Kuchiki Manor held in his lifetime; Sojun was sad to leave. He didn't want to leave, but unfortunately he had to end this dream and return to reality. His son kicked him as if to break him out of his low mood as his reiatsu curled around him in comfort. Smiling lightly he rubbed his abdomen, "At least, I'll have you in my life." He whispered before wincing when he felt something twinge painfully.
Blaming it on the additional weight and sitting posture, Sojun slowly stood up. The pregnancy had really limited his movements, although recently he felt a bit lighter and it had become easier to breath.
"I really have gained weight." He grumbled as lowered himself into the hot spring with Ichigo's aid.
Joining him soon after he was settled, "No." Ichigo corrected studying his form, "You've gained life."
Sojun sincerely hoped the male assumed the hot water and steam to be the cause of the colouring of his cheeks.
Finishing his packing and arranging the room he walked towards the den, he spotted the vase of White Camellia flowers. Rearranging the bouquet, he recalled when he first brought them into the den, two weeks ago.
Carrying a load of firewood into the den for the fire place, Ichigo paused and stared at him as he arranged the flowers. Not that he took up courses in Ikebana, it was only compulsory for the female members of the clan to learn, but he knew the basics of flower arrangement.
When Ichigo didn't say anything but kept on staring at the flower arrangement, Sojun wondered if he overstepped his boundaries, steeling himself he asked with false casualness, "Is there something wrong?"
That snapped the man from his daze who sheepishly smiled as he placed the firewood next to the burning hearth. It was winter and even though Kido could keep the wind from entering the cavern, it couldn't keep the chill from entering.
"No. There's nothing wrong." He replied warming himself. "It just reminded me of my mother."
Catching the underlying sadness, the Kuchiki cursed, "I'm sorry. I didn't know. I'll remove them."
"Don't." He said waving his hand, touching the flowers gently, "I really don't mind them at all." He added smiling gently at them.
Turning away from the flowers, he walked towards Ichigo's reiatsu. During their time spent together, Sojun felt that he had gotten to know Ichigo a bit better, but he knew that he was only scratching the surface. He had never seen the man use his zanpakuto, in battle he would slice through hollows as he was batting flies, but he never shouted a release command, a name or an attack. Looking back at the direction of Ichigo's room, he thought back to the very first time he had seen the man's sword. Like everyone else, he assumed the male possessed only a single blade that was a constant release type. He didn't expect that male had another blade strapped to his side.
Sojun found him seated near the living room's hearth, polishing his zanpakuto. The large khyber knife like blade was leaning against the wall, black gleaming in the fire light, the smaller trench knife lying on Ichigo's lap as he ran a cloth over its surface. Judging by the similarities between the two swords, it was obvious they were a daisho pair.
Sitting down opposite the male, Sojun commented, "I wasn't aware, you were a dual wielder."
Not pausing his work, "I don't use this one as much as the other." Holding the smaller blade to the fire light as he inspected his work. "Only when there is a need do I pull him out."
"Him?" Sojun picked out, "Meaning that the other blade has a separate spirit?"
That made Ichigo look at him, his expression was blank for a moment taking on an amused but impressed look, "Yes, and they are very different."
"Similar to Kyoraku-Taicho's zanpakuto then."
"No." Ichigo replied returning to his work of polishing, "Couldn't be further apart."
He didn't elaborate and Sojun didn't press him, because he knew that he wouldn't receive the explanation he wanted.
Sojun found him standing at the entrance looking at the blizzards outside, "We'll have to wait until this settles to return." Pausing for a moment before meeting his gaze, "It is possible we may have to leave tomorrow.
Sojun smiled slightly before replying, "I don't mind." For which Ichigo smiled in return. They stood in comfortable silence as they watched the wind blow the snow outside their home. However after a few minutes, Sojun bent over almost falling to his knees as he gasped at the sudden surge of pain. Immediately Ichigo was by his side, one hand on his back and another holding his hand.
"Are you alright? What is the problem?" he asked in concern. Although he didn't want to admit it, the pain he first felt in the morning a few hours ago, had increased and the frequency had increased as well. He had dismissed them not wanting to over think the situation, but it seemed his instincts were correct.
"I think, I'm going into labour." Sojun wheezed out as the throbbing faded away.
27.
Ichigo cursed when his suspicions were confirmed. Mentally calculating the date he felt like kicking himself. It was the end of January, and from what he remembered of Rukia's jabbering, Byakuya was born on the last day of January.
"We are definitely not leaving today." He said as he guided the Kuchiki inside to his room. "Has your water broken?" At the shake of his head, Ichigo sighed in relief there was time to ready the place.
When they arrived in Sojun's room, he gestured, "It seems that the brat is too impatient to wait for a more convenient time." The smaller man let out a huff in amusement, and Ichigo continued adopting a more calm and controlled tone, "Walk around, gravity helps speed things up in the long run. There is no way we can reach the Seireitei in this blizzard, even with my speed. So I'll prepare this room for you. Time the gaps and once they occur every five minutes and the contractions last from forty to sixty seconds each, let me know."
"You seemed to be well versed in this." Ichigo held back an amused snort, 'Like father. Like son.'
"My father became a doctor in the Living World, so child birth is nothing new to me."
"But human males cannot carry."
"Yes, but there isn't much of a difference between female and male. I was also present during the labour of many of my friends." He answered wording his explanation carefully. He didn't want to dig himself a complicated situation. Even though he only had Yumichika's labour to base himself on, it was enough for him to draw parallels between his experiences in the Living World and Soul Society. Watching the hollows birth as well did give him the hang of how the male gender would deliver. Though hollows and Shinigami were on opposite sides of the spectrum, anatomically they were similar.
Giving him a brief contemplative look, Sojun nodded his head hesitantly accepting the answer. Unfolding the futon, Ichigo left the room to boil some water. Taking a brief bath, the Kuchiki changed into a more worn out yukata and began walking around the cavern. Soaking two sheets in the boiled water with medicinal herbs, he laid it one on the futon and the larger one underneath it. He couldn't disinfect the room, the way his medical knowledge had instructed, but he could at least clean it the best he can.
Gathering the things such as clean cloth, towels, a small blade and sucker in a pot of boiling water, he glanced at the Kuchiki who was leaning against a wall breathing heavily. Standing up and approaching labouring male, he thought 'It's now a waiting game.'
As expected, given that it was his first child, the dilation of his cervix was slow and his water broke six hours ago. Before he entered the active labour phase in which he remained for two hours, Ichigo managed to force some liquid into the man for him to remain hydrated. Once he entered the transition phase of active labour the following hour, Ichigo admired the man's pain tolerance, for until the last few centimetres of dilation, Sojun held back his pained cries.
Once fully dilated and feeling the decent of the child, Ichigo helped the Kuchiki to a comfortable position. Judging from the slow rate the labour was progressing, he guided Sojun on to his hands and knees. He gauged that squatting would be too strenuous on his body if he had to hold the position for a long time, and the male had less restrictions to shift around. Two hours later after some pushing, the crowning began and a patch of familiar black hair began to emerge. Byakuya's reiatsu was quiet and sedated due to the hormones released to keep the child calm.
Ichigo guided Sojun's hand to the babe's head. Feeling the soft wet hair of his child the Kuchiki's exhaustion vanished for a moment as his face broke into a blinding smile, which stunned Ichigo for a moment. Gathering strength from the knowledge he was about to meet his child, Sojun began to push harder. Clearing the nasal passage and mouth with the sucker, Ichigo gently supported the child's head as it slipped free. Luckily the umbilical cord wasn't wrapped around his neck, which was a major concern for Ichigo, for he would have tell Sojun to stop pushing until he unwounded it. Allowing the other male to catch his breath, he coached him through pushing out the shoulders one at a time and slowly the rest of the new-born followed.
Once the babe was out Sojun collapsed to his side when he heard his child's first cry, eyes wet and panting in exhaustion. The total labour up to now was twelve hours, and Ichigo internally winced. It was one of the longer ones he had aided. Placing the now crying and squirming babe, with reiatsu flaring wildly in the carrier's arms he cleaned the area. Using the lukewarm water he had boiled, he cleaned the babe, male's thighs and opening. He wasn't well-versed in healing kido, but what he knew was enough to heal majority of the damage. Wrapping the child in a clean towel and making sure his airways were clear Ichigo placed him back into his father's anxious arms.
Cutting the umbilical cord, it wasn't long for the after-birth to appear; which Ichigo caught in a soiled cloth, wrapped it and placed it along with the items he would later dispose of. Clearing the area, he left the room to give the new father and his son some privacy to bond. "If you are breastfeeding him, try now." Ichigo informed the tired man as he tightly clutched the new-born to his chest.
He returned an hour later with a simple broth. Neither of them could stomach anything rich or heavy, due the physical and mental exhaustion. When Ichigo entered, he found Sojun laying on his side staring at his child cuddled into his chest in awe, while the babe soundly slept as his reiatsu flickered lazily around room, pushing against his father's and his gently. Placing the bowl of broth on the floor, Ichigo lowered himself next them.
"What are you going to name him?"
There was small pause from the Kuchiki, before replying, "Byakuya."
Ichigo smiled at the sleeping babe, "How appropriate."
A/N: Yay! Byakuya is finally here.
Please take the birth scene with pinch of salt. I haven't been through labour and nor do I plan to be for a very long time. A lot of reading went into that section purely because I am very detail oriented and I hope it didn't come out too clinical. If I got some things wrong or missing parts, don't hesitate to message me or review with the correction, I take pride in staying close to the truth as possible. Hence being fanatical about sticking to the cannon details.
Feel free to drop a comment and anything is welcome; constructive criticism, questions, suggestions, opinions, comments, corrections etc.