Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach; I'd have it full of ByaYoru moment. It belongs to Tite Kubo.
A/N: Sorry it's taken so long between updates. Between grad school, work, family obligation, and injury it's taken me a really long time to finish this chapter. This is a long chapter. It's actually two chapters combined. I've been waiting to post these chapters for almost a year. Thanks for all the support, the reviews, comments, favs, and alerts you don't know ho motivational they've been and I thank you once again.
Quietness filled the 6th Division Byakuya. Byakuya was thankful for the quietness it helped with his productivity, and he wanted to be as productive as possible. He wanted to surprise Yoruichi and take her to a jazz concert in the real world this weekend.
Byakuya pushed his work aside and stared at the tickets Rukia had given him earlier. "Yoruichi, you're not the only one with surprises. This weekend you will be mine Demon Cat."
A familiar spiritual pressure interrupted Byakuya's thoughts. He hurried to the source of the spiritual pressure. Byakuya found a treat: a sleeping Yoruichi in his futon. She's naked; hmm you really do know how to make it hard on a man, Yoruichi. Suddenly all thoughts of work danced from his head. He took one step forward and the floor creaked alarming the sleeping beauty.
Yoruichi lifted her head slightly off her pillow and cracked open one eye. "Byakuya, are you coming to bed soon?"
"Yes, I", Byakuya's eyes scanned over Yoruichi's curves: teasing him under the sheet, "I'll join you once I am finished with my shower."
"OK", mumbled Yoruichi into her pillow. She quickly returned to slumber land.
Byakuya proceeded to take the coldest and quickest shower of his life. His teeth chattered a little as his skin met with the cold air of the small bathroom. He dried off quickly and hurried to his sleeping beauty. Byakuya took a moment to gaze upon Yoruichi. He pulled back the covers and heat surged through his flesh.
Byakuya's body made contact with Yoruichi's as soon as he entered the futon. Yoruichi welcomed Byakuya. She laid her head on his chest, hugged his waist, and wrapped one leg around him. "Good night, Byakuya."
Byakuya relaxed in the warmth of Yoruichi's hold, "Good night, Yoruichi"
Yoruichi's lips covered Byakuya's lips pulling him from his dreamland. "See you later, Big Pooh"
"What?" Byakuya's eyes opened just in time to see a black fuzzy object streak out of his quarters. Byakuya shook his head; "I guess I'll have to surprise you at lunch, Lovely Peanut."
Lunchtime didn't seem to arrive fast enough for Byakuya. He hurried through the morning in anticipation of spending lunch with Yoruichi. Byakuya was feeling good about today; every time he looked at the tickets a good feeling filled him and his men benefited from his good mood. Of course he did not smile or socialize with the men, but he did let Renji run the drills and that made every 6th Davison member happy. Others benefited from Byakuya's good mood as well; he even accepted an offer to go out for drinks with Ukitake and Shunsui after the next captain's meeting.
At lunch Byakuya practically glided to Shihoin manor. He immediately felt Yoruichi's spiritual pressure and headed in her direction. Byakuya's good mood change quickly. "Sho", Byakuya mumbled under his breath. His mood became more sullen as he heard Yoruichi's laughter fill the courtyard. Yoruichi was not alone the roar laughter of other Shihoin members boomed like thunder.
No one seem to notice Byakuya's arrival at least that is was Byakuya thought until Yoruichi greeted him with "his smile". The smile eased the tension in Byakuya's jaw.
"Hey B, long time no see." QT smiled and leaned forward blocking Byakuya's view of Yoruichi. QT's smile was a smug as ever. His turquoise eyes sparked with anger as he sized Byakuya up.
Byakuya frowned at the disrespectful greeting. He looked passed QT trying to get a glimpse of Yoruichi. Byakuya was not subtle and everyone noticed. Adaeze smiled; Emeka sighed he knew it was the start of trouble.
Yoruichi continued to smile she was happy to see Byakuya. He had been on her mind since she left him this morning. "Byakuya, glad you've decided to join us for lunch. Come and sit by me."
Byakuya did not notice QT's twisted face after Yoruichi's offer; Byakuya instead continued to focus on Yoruichi. He did not like that Yoruichi had to move closer to QT to make room for him, but even that thought was quickly pushed out of Byakuya's mind as soon as Yoruichi placed her hand on his knee.
"Byakuya, you're in for a treat today Pa Pa made his special catfish stew". Yoruichi noticed Byakuya's noise scrunched as if he smelt something unpleasant.
"You do like catfish stew Kuchiki".
Byakuya turned to the elder Shihoin, Emeka's face told Byakuya that his reply should be "yes". Not one to be forced into a reply Byakuya gave an honest response, "I have never had catfish stew."
"What never, unbelievable, B," QT lean in closer to Byakuya, he smiled as his thigh made contact with Yoruichi, "you're in for a real treat. Emeka-sama makes the best catfish stew in the universe".
Emeka smiled, "QT, I am not sure about the universe, just the Soul Society and the human world."
"I'm so lucky," Adaeze kissed Emeka on the cheek, "I married such a modest male."
Everyone started to laugh except Byakuya. Byakuya was too busy watching his enemy. QT was too close to Yoruichi; too friendly with Emeka and Adaeze for Byakuya's liking, and he knew why QT came back.
QT left with Ai and Az over a month ago; Byakuya thought he'd seen the last of the arrogant prince. He thought QT had given up, but Byakuya was wrong. It makes no difference that foolish brat will not interfere with our relationship.
Byakuya thought back on the past few weeks. He and Yoruichi had spent a great deal of time together during the day, even more so than when they were senpai and khoai. Plus, he and she spent most nights together. Yoruichi even joked she'd developed Stockholm syndrome. Byakuya didn't have to kidnap her she'd just show up like she did last night.
QT should have stayed wherever he was.
"Here Byakuya take my bowl," QT placed his bowl in front of Byakuya, "QT was lucky enough to get two heads."
"That's very nice of you, QT", Yoruichi turned to Byakuya, "it's delicious Byakuya."
All eyes were watching Byakuya waiting for him to start eating. Byakuya stared at the bowl of stew and it stared back. Byakuya hated when his food stared back at him. He wanted to push the bowl away and refuse the meal, but he did not want to be rude especially, after QT's ode to how wonderful Emeka's stew tasted.
Why couldn't I have gotten Yoruichi's bowl, it looks edible at least. "Yoruichi, take mine, I am sure you wanted a head now you can have two."
Adaeze smiled, Emeka pretended not to notice, and QT's jaw tightened. Yoruichi rubbed Byakuya's forearm lightly and said, "Thank you, Byakuya." She smiled so big you'd think Byakuya gave her a pair of diamond earrings instead of a pair of catfish heads.
Byakuya tasted the stew and to his surprise it tasted good. He ate his stew slowly, but Yoruichi and her grandfather went through bowls of catfish stew like a hurricane. The big pot of stew was empty before anyone else could get a second helping not that Byakuya cared.
"Great now that everyone is finished lunch we can get ready for practice," QT turned to Byakuya, "plus, QT is sure you have many captain things to do B", QT stood and stretched, "QT hopes, you will find time to attend the concert, Byakuya."
"Concert"
"Byakuya, we're playing for the Neros' anniversary. It's this Saturday," Yoruichi rubbed the back of Byakuya's hand; "you will be able to come won't you?"
"Saturday," it would have to be this Saturday, "yes" his voice trailed off.
The week seemed to slowly pass for Byakuya. It was a lonely week, the first lonely week Byakuya had since Yoruichi's return to the Soul Society. There were no nightly visits from his demon cat this week. Yoruichi spent every evening practicing for the concert. Every time he'd stop by to see her QT was there. When QT wasn't around neither was Yoruichi, she was on some covert mission for the Shinigami Women's Association.
Tonight Byakuya was going to get his alone time with Yoruichi even if he had to resort kidnapping. He looked at himself one more time in the mirror making sure not a hair was out of place.
"Byakuya, how long are you going to stand in front of the mirror? It's getting late we should go."
"Yes, grandfather."
The two Kuchiki men boarded the family carriage. Ginrei handed Byakuya a blue gift box. "Byakuya," Ginrei started to cough, "darn cold, just give that to the Neros as a gift from the clan. Then you can spend the rest of the evening with Yoruichi." Ginrei waited but there was no defensive statement from Byakuya. "Hmm."
The carriage soon stopped at the Neros' manor. The Nero clan was a very old and established lower noble clan. The couple had been married longer than Ginrei had been alive. The hall was packed with guest, but Byakuya only wanted to see one.
His eyes quickly scanned the room, but Yoruichi was nowhere to be found, much to Byakuya's disappointment. Byakuya sighed.
"Yoruichi, you look lovely this evening."
Byakuya quickly turned to see Yoruichi standing just a few feet away talking to Ginrei. He took a moment to admire Yoruichi from a far he loved her in kimono. His eyes roamed up to her face where he found her smile. She was giving him "his smile", and it drew him like metal to a magnet.
Yoruichi's eyes locked on to Byakuya as he moved closer to she and Ginrei. "My don't you look handsome this evening, Byakuya."
"Thank you, and you're-"
Byakuya's statement was cutoff by Ginrei's coughing.
"Are you okay?"
"It's just a cold, Yoruichi." Ginrei turned to Byakuya and looked at the gift Byakuya was still holding. "Byakuya, take the gift to the Neros. I need to speak to Yoruichi about something."
Byakuya returned quickly from presenting the gift, but when he returned again Yoruichi was nowhere to be found. "Grandfather"
"She had to get ready for her performance. We should find a spot now, before the other guests realize it's almost time for the concert to start". Byakuya and his grandfather moved near the stage. Soon a crowd surrounded them.
The concert began and everyone in the crowd got lost in the music. Byakuya even heard Ginrei humming along to a few songs. During the last song Byakuya and Yoruichi's eyes met for just a few seconds, but it was enough to let him the last song, Dance With Me, was for him.
Byakuya waited for Yoruichi as she received praises from fans. Only a little while longer and she'll be mine again.
"Byakuya"
Byakuya was torn as he heard his name coming from two different directions. He tore his eyes from Yoruichi and turned to his grandfather. "Grandfather"
Ginrei opened his mouth to speak but only coughing came out.
Yoruichi's attention was drawn to the older Kuchiki. "Are you sure you're okay? Your cough sounds worse."
"Grandfather"
"I just need some rest," Ginrei coughed some more, "and maybe a hot toddy."
"Byakuya, you should take your grandfather home before the night air becomes cooler."
"You're a very wise woman, Princess Yoruichi," said QT as he stepped in between Byakuya and Yoruichi, "B you should listen to her. QT would step up and take Kuchiki-sama but we have another song to play." QT turned to Yoruichi, "I hate to interrupt princess, but it's that time."
"I have to go. Byakuya, I know you'll take good care of your grandfather," she turned to Ginrei, "I hope you feel better."
-=-
Byakuya did not get to kidnap Yoruichi the night of the concert, and she did not come by to visit with him after the Nero's party. It had been over week since he and Yoruichi had spent more than five minutes alone. Byakuya decided it was time to do something about it. He stopped watching his men run drills and started walking the Shihoin estate.
Byakuya was greeted by a smug QT instead of the lovely Yoruichi when he arrived. "B, I've been waiting for you."
Byakuya slanted his eyes and stared at QT. I am not in the mood for your foolishness today.
"QT was wondering when you would man-up and come looking for QT", QT smiled and added, "what's at matter B, the cat got your tongue, oh wait no she doesn't cause she got better things to do."
"Watch your mouth or you will force me teach you some respect boy."
"Boy, QT, is all man if you don't believe me ask Yoruichi-sama." QT licked his lips.
That's it QT. Byakuya gnashed his teeth but calmly responded, "I have had enough you."
"And I have had enough of you Kuchiki Byakuya and that is why I am challenging for Yoruichi."
"What? You want to fight me."
"No, race you," QT stepped closer to Byakuya, "we'll race in 10 days if you win I'll return to the Royal Realm, but if I win you'll step aside and not interfere anytime while I am with Yoruichi."
"A race, are you really foolish enough to think that you could win against me?"
"What's a matter, B, afraid you'll lose to the better man?"
"Me afraid of you, you really are fool."
"I am no fool, but you're a coward."
"I told you before watch your mouth boy."
QT stepped back and shook his head. "I knew it you're all talk and no action."
This little brat needs to be taught a lesson. "You're the one who is all talk. When I beat you there will be no talking your way out of returning to the Royal Realm."
" B, the only person I'll be talking to is Yoruichi-sama as she lays in my arms under the moonlight."
"Young Kuchiki, what brings you by?" Both men turned to see Adaeze and Emeka approaching.
"I came to see Yoruichi, Adaeze-sama."
Emeka spoke, "She's not here".
"Sorry young Kuchiki, but," Adaeze nudged Emeka, "we'll be sure to let her know you came by."
Byakuya took his leave. He could feel QT's smug smile follow him as he left the garden. In 10 days I'll be rid of that arrogant brat. How dare he think he could win against me? He really is a fool.
QT left shortly after Byakuya. Red had arranged for QT to meet with a certain mad scientist. QT and Red entered a secret chamber deep within the 12th Division laboratory.
"Red, oh he's defiantly the one, only a man with a dark heart would work in such a creepy place."
"Prince, this room is only the half of it, wait until you meet him."
"Captain Kurotsuchi, will meet with you in a moment," said a blank faced Nemu. She stood lifeless in the corner of the room and stared at the wall across from her.
QT's eyes ran over the vice captain stopping at Nemu's bare legs. "Oh, he can take all day as long as QT can spend time with you." QT smiled but Nemu appeared to ignore him and continued staring forward. QT opened his mouth to speak, but Red grabbed his shoulder before he could say anything.
"Prince she is the one I was talking about."
"Bummer she's even hotter than you said."
"What do you want? I don't have all day". Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi walked between the two men and sat down. Nemu hurried by his side. "Are you deaf? Is that why you came?"
"No QT just wanted to."
"Who is QT? I thought this meeting was for a Prince Sho. "
"I am QT. I am Prince Sho."
"Why are you here?"
"I spent some time with Kisuke Urahara. He's quit the man. He has an awesome hentai collection."
"Do you think I want to hear about the perversion of you and Urahara? You're here just to waste my time, be gone. I have important work to get back to. "
"My apologizes Captain Kurotsuchi, I did not mean for it to come out that way. I was only saying what a great guy Urahara is, but the reason I am here is because I need a great scientist not a great guy." QT paused as Mayuri beady little yellow eyes found him. "Yes, you are great scientist and the only one who can help me."
"Help you, why should I"?
"Because you're the only one that can put Byakuya Kuchiki in his place."
"What does that arrogant Captain Kuchiki have to do with this?"
"He's challenged me to a race in 10 days, but I want to do more than just defeat him. Kuchiki has an attitude problem and he thinks he better than others including you. That's why he never shares information with the 12th. He doesn't see your division as being equal. In his eyes you're playing in the lab while others are actually doing something."
"If I kill him they'll take away my lab. I don't have time for this." The painted face scientist waived his hand and turned away.
"No, there's no need to kill, humiliation will be worse than death for someone like him. I am sure you can find away. Byakuya says Urahara is the smartest shinigami outside of Aizen, but I say he's wrong. What say you Captain Kurotuchi?"
"I say it's time for me to try out my new serum and see how it effects shinigami as a opposed to hollows."
"I have the perfect specimen, just let Red know what you need. I am leaving the Soul Society tomorrow but Red will remain here".
The following day Byakuya walked into the captain's meeting room. Byakuya never socialized and today was no different. He walked passed a staring Mayuri in silence and took his position. Byakuya wanted the meeting to end as soon as possible so could finally spend some time with Yoruichi. He certainly wasn't going to delay the start of the meeting with useless chitchat.
Byakuya was in luck the meeting was short. Captain Yamamoto had a cold and after Unohana's encouragement shortened the meeting by 15 minutes.
" Glad the old man cut the meeting short, I could use some sake."
"Me too friend", "Ukitake gave Shunsui a warm smile "me too," Ukitake grabbed Byakuya's shoulder as Byakuya made it to the doorway, "let's go Byakuya."
"Go?"
"Out for drinks". Shunsui tipped his hat downward and walked out the door.
I forgot I promised to go out for drinks after the meeting, damn, but I gave my word. "One drink."
"One is enough." Ukitake gave Byakuya a warm smile.
"Only for you, Ukitake", added Shunsui.
The three captains headed to Yasu's. When they arrived a female hostess ushered the men to Ukitake and Shunsui's usual room. Byakuya expected Feke to show up and faint but he did not. QT showed up instead and for the first time in Byakuya's life he wished he saw the sweaty balding Feke.
Ukitake warmly greeted QT, "Prince Sho glad you could join us."
"The pleasure is all mine, Captain Ukitake", QT took a seat directly across from Byakuya, "and the first round is on me. I hope Brimm's sake is to your liking."
QT spoke and a waitress came in carrying a pitcher and four cups of sake on a tray. She gave each of the men a cup before sitting the pitcher in the middle of the table.
She turned her attention to QT, "Well there be anything, sir?"
QT smiled and the young woman was bedazzled. "No that's all for now, but I'll be sure to call on you before the night is over."
Shunsui smiled as he picked up his cup. "Prince Sho, I am sure you want have to call too loudly."
Everyone laughed except Byakuya and QT noticed. "Byakuya, I am surprised to see you here. I thought you'd be abstaining as part of your training for our race."
"I don't have to abstain from anything in order to beat you."
A smile cracked QT's face. "You're too serious Byakuya. I know lets toast everyone, to fun and sportsmanship."
Ukitake and Shunsui were both curious about the race. The two waited for Byakuya and QT to explain, but they were too busy in a stare down to explain anything to the senior captains.
Shunsui got tired of waiting and asked, "What race?"
"B and I are having a friendly little race in nine days"; QT filled everyone's cup, "you two should come watch the race and afterwards we can all go out for drinks again".
Meanwhile Yoruichi was waiting for Byakuya to return to his office. She needed to talk to him. She needed to tell him good-bye. Yoruichi wasn't going to sneak off in the night this time she was going to give him a proper good-bye.
"Where are you Byakuya? What's taking you so long?" She sighed after waiting for an hour. Byakuya's one drink turned to four. I guess I just have to leave a note. She wrote a short note stating that she would in the Royal Realm for a few days.
Byakuya never made it back to his office that evening. He instead went home and passed out on his bedroom floor. Byakuya woke up groggy the next morning; even with his head in a fog Byakuya knew something was wrong. He immediately tried to sense Yoruichi's spiritual pressure but there was nothing. He continued trying as he walked to his office and there was still nothing. Maybe she had to go to the human world for some reason.
Byakuya found Yoruichi's note as soon as he sat his remembered that QT left after the second round of drinks because he was leaving that evening to go to back to Royal Realm because it was the perfect place to train. He also remembered QT's smug smile as he stated, "Don't worry I'll be back in time for the race".
The race is in eight days. Did she leave to train QT? She wouldn't have done that? Byakuya's head started to pound as he thought back to when Yoruichi trained Ichigo. That was different, or was it, does she just want to prove that another one of her students can beat me. No, she wouldn't. What if she really wants QT to win; she hasn't come to see me since QT's return.
Byakuya's head felt like it was going to explode. "I need some fresh air." Byakuya walked out his office and almost walked into Renji. "Renji have the men clean the division headquarters. I'll be back later to conduct an inspection."
Byakuya walked away before Renji could respond. Byakuya continued walking until he reached his grandfather's koi pond.
"Byakuya, you here early. Are you here to see Estelle and Cy's off spring? I figured you'd be sooner or later to pick out a couple of koi for your pond."
"No, I just needed some fresh air."
"There's no fresh air at the 6th Division," mumbled Ginrei. He raised his voice, "I see. Why don't you help me feed the koi while you're enjoying the fresh air."
Ginrei handed Byakuya, a small bag with koi food. "Byakuya, did I ever tell you I could've married Ai."
"Ai-sama of the Shihoin clan"
"There's only one Ai Byakuya. Don't get me wrong I loved your grandmother and she returned my love 100 times over. I have no regrets about being loved by your grandmother she was a special woman, but I do regret not trying to marry Ai. Come and have some tea I'll tell you the story."
Byakuya was quite intrigued by he grandfather confession. He followed Ginrei into the house. Ginrei continued with his story after the servant finished serving the tea.
"When Ai came of age the Shihoin clan decided she should marry. Of course this did not sit well with Ai so she and her twin brother, Areli, devised a plan to keep her out of wedlock. They created a three-day hakudo tournament. It was open to anyone including non-nobles. Those who survived the first three rounds would have to face Areli and then Ai.
I knew there was no way I could beat Yamamoto and even if I did there was no way to beat Areli in hakudo he was the second only to Ai. I didn't even enter the tournament. Az on the other hand did not care about the odds, or that Ai didn't want him to win. She thought Az was arrogant, boring, and demanding. Plus his nose bled so much he was pale.
Everyone thought Az was a fool. His status couldn't help him this time. They thought he was an even bigger fool by fighting after Yamamoto and the 7th Kenpachi. But everyone was wrong it was the smartest decision of the entire tournament.
Areli and Yamamoto fought to a draw with both men being severely injured. Ai refuse to let Areli continue so Yamamoto moved on to fight the 7th Kenpachi in a special match. Yamamoto's injuries were so terrible he lost to the 7th Kenpachi after a valiant fight.
Despite life threatening injuries Yamamoto still managed to injure the 7th Kenpachi weakening the insane fighter. Az's spiritual pressure was so immense he was able to use it to paralyze the 7th Kenpachi for a moment. Az knocked Kenpachi out in one blow.
Az could barely stand after using so much of his spiritual pressure. Everyone thought it was over for Az. His next opponent was Ai. She took him down in one hit. There was so much blood we thought Az was going to die. Ai went to check on him and he trapped her in the same almost unbreakable hold she taught his family. She would have had to dislocate her shoulder and elbow to break free.
Ai's mother, Hinata, knew Ai was too stubborn to give in so she declared Az the winner. After Az's three-day stay in the hospital he took Ai to the Royal Realm ".
The story made Byakuya's head hurt more. Great the royal family has history taking Shihoin women. Maybe that was QT's plan all along to get Yoruichi back to the Royal Realm.
"Byakuya, do you know why I told you about the tournament? I heard about your race with Prince Sho." Ginrei sighed at Byakuya's surprised face. "Byakuya, I don't know the specifics of your race, but I do know you shouldn't underestimate the prince. He's not going into the race without a plan. Byakuya he's counting on your over confidence the same way Az counted on everyone discounting him".
"Grandfather, don't worry grandfather I will not dishonor the clan. I will train for the race. I will defeat Prince Sho." I won't lose Yoruichi to that arrogant brat.
"Very well Byakuya, you may leave to start your training." Ginrei watched Byakuya leave. Byakuya looked confident, but Ginrei had a bad feeling about the race.
-==-
Seven days had a passed. Byakuya trained every night for the race. He would train until his chest burned and his legs got heavy. Then he'd take a five-minute break and train for an hour more. His determination to win was unshakable.
Byakuya breathed heavily as he reached is normal resting spot. He took of a drink of water just before an unwelcomed guest appeared. "What do you want, Captain Kurotsuchi?"
"I want to help you," said Mayuri with a yellow-toothed smile.
"Hmph. What could I possibly need from you?"
"You need this", Mayuri pulled out a syringe filled with a green fluid, "with this you'll win the race".
"I'm not interested, I don't need your help to win."
"You'll regret not accepting my offer." Mayuri disappeared into the darkness.
As soon as Mayuri left Red appeared. "Captain Kuchiki, here is the route for the race tomorrow. Prince Sho will meet you at sunrise." Red bowed and left just as quickly as he arrived.
Byakuya looked over the route. The route was a challenge. QT made the route difficult. I wasn't a circle it was an oddly formed figure eight. He thinks by making the route confusing he'll gain the advantage. Little does he know I've chased Yoruichi around the Seireitei using almost every possible route.
Byakuya flash stepped the route once to make sure there weren't unexpected difficulties. After running the route Byakuya was exhausted. Byakuya headed home, he knew he needed to rest up for the race.
The next morning Byakuya arrived early at Shizune Hill, the race starting point. QT wasn't there waiting when Byakuya arrived. A small crowd consisting of Ginrei, Rukia, Renji, Ukitake, Shunsui, and Emeka had gathered at the starting line. However, there was no Yoruichi. Yoruichi not being there disappointed Byakuya more than his cold exterior showed. Where is she? Byakuya knew she was near he could sense her.
QT was as confident and smug as ever as he and Red walked slowly to Shizune Hill. "It's a great day for a race, Red. Stop looking so worried."
"Prince I can't help it what if something goes wrong or if someone finds out. You can bet Kuchiki on your own, Prince."
"Red, of course I can beat him, but I have to humiliate him. Then his pride will step between he and Yoruichi and I won't have to do anything else. Don't worry there is no way we'll get caught. Even if the waitress mentioned I brought in the bottle of Brimm's sake to Yasu I drank from that bottle along with Ukitake and Shunsui."
Meanwhile Yoruichi was asleep in her bed until Adaeze pulled back the covers. Then she was stuck between a dream and almost awake. "Nin Nin, no school," she let out a fake cough, "I don't feel well." She started drifting back into her sleep state.
Adaeze pulled Yoruichi up by her shoulders, "Get up are you'll miss the race."
"Race", said Yoruichi as her eyes fluttered open.
"Byakuya and QT are about to race."
"Why?" Yoruichi stretched and let out a huge yawn.
"I believe has something to do with you."
"Me"
"Don't play innocent, Yoruichi Shihoin. I know you must've have noticed that those two don't get along."
"Yeah, because their egos can't fit in the same room." Yoruichi laughed but stopped when she saw Adaeze serious face.
"Yoruichi, that's only part of the problem. The other part is you. Don't frown up you know I am telling the truth. Just like you know QT flirts with you all the time."
"Nin Nin he flirts with every breathing female". Yoruichi stood up and stretched.
"That maybe true, but young Kuchiki only cares when he flirts with you."
Yoruichi started walking to her bathroom. "Nin Nin Byakuya knows he has nothing to worry about."
"Oh so you told him he has nothing to worry about."
"No, Nin Nin, I shouldn't have to." Yoruichi continued on to the bathroom.
"Is it because he's developed psychic abilities and can read your mind?"
Adaeze's statement was enough to stop Yoruichi at the bathroom door. Yoruichi frowned but did not turn around.
"Don't frown because you know I am right. He's a man Yoruichi and sometimes you can't be subtle with men. Men confuse easily baby. I suggest you hurry Yoruichi. Even if young Kuchiki knows you're coming."
Back at the race
Byakuya was tired of waiting, 15 minutes had passed and still no Yoruichi. He walked quietly to the starting point. QT on the other hand decided to joke around and talk to the crowd.
This annoyed Byakuya. He glared at QT. "I thought you wanted to race."
QT walked over slowly, "B, you're not a morning person are you?" He flashed his dimpled grin at Byakuya.
Rukia yelled, "Go nii-sama" as Byakuya and QT readied to start the race.
"B at least you have one female who cares enough to cheer for you," said QT just as Ukitake gave the command to start the race.
Yoruichi arrived a minute after the race started. Byakuya and QT were completely out sight by then. Yoruichi whispered, "Good luck, Byakuya."
QT was even faster than Byakuya imagined. QT and Byakuya spent most of the race neck and neck.
Then Byakuya could see the crowd off in the distance. He felt Yoruichi's spiritual pressure and it gave him a boost; he turned up the speed. He started to create some distance between he and QT. Byakuya continued to push himself as he felt QT gaining ground. Byakuya's heart was racing; it felt as if it was going to burst out of his chest. His entire body started to tingle. Then his legs went numb. What's happening?
QT took the lead. Byakuya tried to catch up but his legs started to spasm and every time he took a step it felt as if Senbonzakura's blades were slicing all the muscle fibers in his legs. Byakuya saw QT cross the finish line just before he fell to one knee. Byakuya's right knee crashed into the ground just as he saw Yoruichi moving towards QT. He tried to stand but his legs refused.
Yoruichi ran passed the victorious QT to a falling Byakuya. She took Byakuya into her arms catching. She watched as his glossy eyes slowly closed. "Byakuya can you hear me?" There was no answer.
"Ukitake, Shunsui, go and get Unohana and have her meet us at my office", yelled Yoruichi. The two friends did as they were told. Everyone except QT and Red ran over to Byakuya and Yoruichi.
"Pa Pa I need for you to get a stretcher from our medical supply room."
Emeka left before Yoruichi finished her statement.
"Nii-sama" gasped Rukia
Ginrei asked with concern in his voice "Yoruichi what happened?"
"I don't know."
QT and Red observed the scene from a far. Red was worried. He did not like the sound in Yoruichi's voice. "Prince Sho"
"Red I said don't worry."
"I know but I don't trust Mayuri."
"I don't trust him either, but trust has nothing to do with it. That mad man will do anything to keep his lab there's no way he's going to tell on us. He's in too deep. He even switched B's water bottle last night so no one would know he's secretly been poisoning B the past three nights".
"But Prince Sh-"
"No worries Red, we're not the ones who poisoned B, and besides it's not like B will die. He'll just whimper in the corner". QT walked over and looked at the unconscious Byakuya being held in Yoruichi's arms. "Maybe QT pushed him too hard, sorry sometimes QT takes it the extreme."
Yoruichi ignored QT's comment her eyes and concern remained focused on the man in her arms. Emeka soon arrived with the stretcher.
"Thanks Pa Pa, Red I need you to help Renji get on Byakuya the stretcher. Then take him to my office."
Unohana arrived couple of minutes after Red and Renji placed Byakuya in Yoruichi's bed. She ushered everyone except Yoruichi out of the room. Yoruichi wasn't going to leave Byakuya's side even for Unohana. The small crowed waited outside the door as Unohana started her exam.
"QT is sure B is fine. B just pushed himself too hard trying to keep up with QT. He just had cramp and passed out."
Unohana opened the door and announced, "Captain Kuchiki is awake."
"See, QT knows even things medical."
Shunsui grabbed QT by the shoulder, "QT lets go get breakfast and come back later."
Ukitake grabbed QT's other shoulder, "Yes much later."
"My we see, nii-sama, Captain Unohana."
"Rukia, you all can come in but just for a moment. I gave him something for pain he'll be asleep a few minutes".
Unohana opened the door and the others packed into the small room. They just stared at Byakuya who just stared back. The room was silent until Emeka spoke.
"Kuchiki"
"Emeka-sama", responded Byakuya in a raspy voice.
"Nii-sama"
"Rukia"
"Captain."
"Renji"
"Byakuya"
"Grandfather"
"Good Byakuya, you know everyone's name."
Byakuya cut his eyes at Yoruichi's comment. Yoruichi was sitting on the bed next him but Byakuya refused to look in her direction.
He turned his head slightly and looked at the wall.
Adaeze asked with motherly concern, "Young Kuchiki, do you need anything?"
"Thank you for asking Adaeze-sama. I just need some time alone to rest."
Unohana clapped her hands together. "You heard him, you all can come and visit later."
The crowd quickly left the room. Yoruichi still remained by Byakuya's side.
"Yoruichi I said alone." He gaze remained glued to the wall. "You know how, you've left me alone on many times."
"What's with the attitude Byakuya?" I can't believe you. This better be a side effect of the medication. Yoruichi waited but there was no answer. "I am not leaving Byakuya."
"Fine I will." Byakuya moved and the pain was excruciating. He hurt from his lower abdomen to the tips of his toes.
It was painful for Yoruichi to watch Byakuya suffer. What the hell is wrong with you? She wanted to scream at him but she didn't. "Byakuya where are you going without your hakema?" Yoruichi knew Byakuya wouldn't walk around the Soul Society pant less.
Byakuya frowned and turned to Yoruichi for the first time. "Where are my clothes?"
Yoruichi placed her fingertip between his brows. "I am not telling you."
"Fine." Byakuya laid his head back with his frown still in place and Yoruichi by his side.
He soon drifted to sleep. Yoruichi eased off the bed. She did not go far; she sat in the chair across from Byakuya and watched him sleep hours. Byakuya open his eyes and saw Yoruichi was not next to him.
Before he could comment on Yoruichi's absence Rukia spoke, "Nii-sama do you need anything?"
"No."
Rukia give Byakuya a fragile smile and dashed out the room. She returned shortly with Unohana and Yoruichi.
"Captain Kuchiki", Unohana handed Byakuya a sake glass filled with an elixir, "I need for you to take this every four hours."
Byakuya's face screwed from taking his first sip. The red liquid burned his throat and his stomach.
"There is also some sap to put on your legs at night." Unohana opened the jar and everyone's face screwed up. "It doesn't smell good but it will pull the toxins from your system. Are you hungry Captain Kuchiki?"
"A little."
"Byakuya I'll get you something. Unohana says no spicy or greasy foods, but I'll find you something you'll like". Yoruichi turned to Rukia, "Please stay with Byakuya until I return".
"Yes, Yoruichi-dano"
Byakuya and Rukia sat in silence for 15 minutes before he drifted back to sleep. He woke to the sound of Yoruichi humming a couple of hours later.
"Oh so you're finally awake Byakuya. I'll get your food." Yoruichi disappeared then reappeared in less than 10 second. "Banana crème pie, it's not spicy or greasy and it's made from bananas."
"Yoruichi, only you think of dessert as a meal." Byakuya's stomach urged him to try the pie. The pie was like a little bit of heaven on a spoon. Byakuya let out a little moan of pleasure after the first spoonful.
The sound made Yoruichi very happy. She sat in the watched Byakuya eat over half the pie. Then there was an uneasy silence between after Byakuya finished eating. Yoruichi wasn't sure what to do about it or why he was acting the way he was.
Byakuya didn't act like any sick man she encountered. Emeka turned in to a big baby when he was sick but every time Yoruichi tried to do something for Byakuya he got an attitude. "Byakuya it's time to put the sap on."
"Very well give me the jar."
"Byakuya I'll do it."
"I can do it myself Yoruichi."
"No you can't, stop being so stubborn, Unohana gave me the jar and the instructions."
"Fine."
Byakuya allowed Yoruichi to apply the sap. The stench was overwhelming. Yoruichi felt as if she was going to throw up, but she continued applying the sap without one compliant.
Yoruichi looked at the greenish brown goo covering Byakuya from his hips to his toes; it was quite the disturbing sight. "Unohana said to wash it off after an hour or two." Yoruichi returned to her seat.
"The smell doesn't bother you, Yoruichi."
"Yes, it does."
"Then why are you sitting there?"
"Byakuya, I am here just in case you need anything."
"Yoruichi I am not a baby."
"You could've fooled me. I am going into my office." Yoruichi walked out the bedroom and into her office. The smell filled that room as well, but at least she could open her window.
Yoruichi tried to work but could not concentrate. Every time Byakuya moved he groaned and Yoruichi had to fight her need to be with him.
What's wrong Byakuya? Why won't you talk to me? Are you upset because I wasn't there for the start of the race? It's not like you told me about it. I am not psychic, but neither are you. Maybe you're just a spoiled brat when you're sick.
Yoruichi went to the bathroom and Byakuya did not say a word as she passed the bed. She returned with a foot tub full of warm water. He stared at sponge in Yoruichi's hand to avoid staring at her.
"Byakuya it's time to remove the sap."
"I can do it."
"I know Byakuya, but let me, let me take care of you," said Yoruichi with such sincerity in her voice that Byakuya knew it had to be real. She slowly dragged the warm sponge removing some sap from his thigh. "I am not hurting you."
"No", whispered Byakuya. It actually felt good maybe just a little good. He could feel his anger towards dissipating.
"See Byakuya that wasn't so bad." Yoruichi stood up. "I'll get some more water for your sponge bath".
I can't let her give me a sponge bath. "Yoruichi, I'll bathe myself"
Byakuya, you and your pride, "Sure I'll take a shower while you bathe." She handed Byakuya a light blue hopi set. "I had Rukia bring you some clothes. Are you sure don't need any help? I am sure if I ask Unohana she'd send Blue and Gray right over." Yoruichi smiled wickedly.
"You are an evil demon cat, don't you dare bring those two near me," calmly responded Byakuya.
Yoruichi laughed. At least you haven't lost what little sense of humor you had. Yoruichi disappeared into the bathroom.
Byakuya took a moment to breathe. It was becoming harder and harder for Byakuya to stay angry with Yoruichi. If he remained angry at her losing her wouldn't hurt so bad, but every time Byakuya would try to rebuild the wall between them Yoruichi would come and kick it down. Why is she doing all this? Is it out of pity? She trained QT to be beat me and when he won she ran to him to celebrate. I lost the race. I lost Yoruichi. She'll leave with him and won't return just like Ai.
Byakuya struggled to get dress and Yoruichi struggled not leave the bathroom. I wish you'd let me in just a little more, Byakuya. I want to take care of you. I won't push; you and your pride may not be able to handle that right now.
Yoruichi took a deep breath and entered the bedroom. "Byakuya it's time for your medicine".
Around midnight there was a pounding on Yoruichi's door.
"Yoruichi-sama, Princess Yoruichi, open up," sang QT. His melodic voice pierced Byakuya's ears like a knife.
Yoruichi opened the door and a very drunk QT fell into the room and on to Yoruichi.
"That was a damn good catch princess".
"Sho"
His arms wrapped around Yoruichi. "You know you're a damn good looking woman."
"Sho, you're drunk."
"But not blind" he smiled.
"Leave," Byakuya's voice came from the doorway of the bedroom.
"Byakuya, you're not supposed to be up". Yoruichi knew Byakuya was struggling to stand as he leaned against the doorway. Yoruichi leaned QT against her desk. She pointed at QT, "You stay."
"B, see she wants me to stay."
"I said leave." Byakuya took one step and the pain ripped through his leg and his abdomen. He didn't let it stop him. He tried to take another step but that leg cramped so bad his knee locked in place.
"That's enough Byakuya." She wrapped her arms around his waist and before Byakuya knew it he was back in the bedroom sitting on the side of the bed. "Byakuya lay back down," she softly caressed his cheek, "please"
After seeing the plea in her eyes Byakuya couldn't refuse. She helped Byakuya get in the bed. Byakuya frowned as he saw QT in the doorway.
Yoruichi gently caressed his cheek. "I'll take QT to his room. You just rest."
The medication started to kick in and Byakuya's eyes started getting heavy. Before Byakuya's closed his eyes he saw QT mouth, "She's coming to my room".
Yoruichi kissed a sleeping Byakuya on the forehead. She stared at Byakuya resting for a few heartbeats. She took a deep breath then turned her attention back to her drunken guest. "Let's go QT"
QT leaned on Yoruichi as they walked to QT's room in silence. She helped QT into his room. QT plopped down on the bed and stared at Yoruichi. He took her hand. "Princess you really care about him".
"Yes I do."
QT groaned and rolled his eyes. "But princess why? He so uptight."
"True, but he is my uptight prince and I wouldn't trade him for anyone else."
"Not even for the real Prince Charming." QT smiled.
"No not even for a 100"
QT looked down at the floor and with a sad smile responded, "Oh I see, good night Yoruichi-sama."
"Good night, QT."
Byakuya woke up and can't feel Yoruichi laying next him. The spot where she once laid was cold. She didn't comeback. The crushing weight of loneliness covered him. He cursed under his breath, "Damn."
In a gruffly sleepy masculine voice Yoruichi says, "What's wrong?"
Byakuya lifted his had and saw Yoruichi in her cat form lying at the foot of the bed. "Yo-Yoruichi" he cleared his throat, "it's nothing."
Yoruichi yawned and stretched her black furry body. "I figured it would be better if I transformed in to my cat form. I didn't want to take the chance of hurting you while we slept; it allowed me to stay near you just in case you needed me". She stretched out her little black paw and touched his shoulder. "Are you feeling better?"
"Yes" He closed his heavy eyes and she watched him fall back to sleep.
Byakuya woke at the crack of dawn just in time to see Yoruichi transform and walk into the bathroom. It was a beautiful but painful discovery as his natural reaction caused him severe pain. It was a cruel reminder of something else he could not do.
Yoruichi soon emerged from the bathroom wrapped in a white towel. "Byakuya good you're awake. It's time for your medicine. Would you like something to eat?"
Byakuya was so busy watching the remaining droplets of glistening water cling to her mocha skin to answer. Yoruichi managed to knock down Byakuya's new wall before he could lay the first brick.
"Byakuya are you hungry?"
"No."
"I am going to get ready. I have to take care of something this morning. I plan to be back before you wake up. Nin Nin will be in periodically this morning to check on you until I return".
Byakuya tried to fight the medication and stay awake at least until Yoruichi left, but it was a loosing battle. He fell asleep before Yoruichi left the bathroom. When he woke up he found his red hair tie tied around his wrist.
Byakuya stared at the tiny red string that had tied he and Yoruichi together for so long. Why did she give this back to me? Maybe the game is over, she doesn't want me to chase her anymore. After the race she knew I'd never be able to catch her. I really have lost.
Byakuya tried to get up. He ignored the pain he needed to leave. It took awhile but he was finally able to stand. The pain sliced through his legs and abdomen so much so it shortened his breath. He only took a few steps before his body gave up and he had to sit back down.
"What up B?" QT stood in the doorway.
He came to gloat. "What do you want?"
"I just wanted to check up on you", QT dropped his head a little and shifted his eyes to the side, "I thought you just had cramps and passed out. If had known you would've suffered this much I would've called off everything." QT scratched the back of his neck, "Sorry man." There was no air of smugness about him for a change.
Now Sho feels pity for me too.
QT continued, "I just wanted to tell you that before I returned home." QT paused at Byakuya's bewildered look. "I won the race but you won Yoruichi. Now I don't know why she'd pick you over me" QT brushed his shoulders off and smiled, "maybe she really likes puppies." QT's face became very serious. "You better treat her right. Kuchiki Byakuya, if you slip up once I'll swoop in and take her". QT left without another word.
Before Byakuya could fully digest what QT said not so happy Yoruichi arrived. "Byakuya I told you to stay in bed. You're the worse patient ever".
Byakuya looked up and saw Yoruichi standing in the doorway with her arms folded under her breast and a scolding look in her eye.
"Why are you doing this? Do you pity me, Yoruichi?"
"Pity you, I am going to have to talk to Unohana about your medication. It's turning you into a wacko."
"I am not joking Yoruichi."
"I am not either Byakuya."
"I lost the race. I don't need pity from Sho or from you."
"Pity, the race, I don't care about the damn race." Yoruichi stared at Byakuya she couldn't understand why he thought she pitied him. Byakuya you can't be that thickheaded. You're sick and it was just a race. "Byakuya, why'd you race QT?"
I can't tell her why. She'll walk away for sure, but I don't want her to be with me out of pity. She'll blame herself and feel obligated to care for me. He didn't answer he just struggled to inch his way along the side of the bed.
Byakuya's silence answered Yoruichi. Her heart ached as she watch her once strong and confident Byakuya-bo struggle to do something so simple. The race was about me. Damn. "Byakuya"
"Don't worry, I'll check myself into the hospital. I'll finally be out of your hair for good."
"Byakuya I like you in my hair," she smiled softly, "well at least your fingers. Remember the night we spent together after Sierra concert." Please remember Byakuya, remember the good times we spent together.
Byakuya remembered that night. He and Yoruichi ate ice cream and stared at the stars for hours before he fell asleep with his finger in Yoruichi's hair. I can't even walk with you outside. Byakuya looked up and saw the sadness in Yoruichi's eyes. "Yoruichi don't have to take care of me."
"I know that Byakuya but I told you before I want to take of you. It's not because I pity you Byakuya, it's because I care about you."
"Then what's this?" Byakuya held up his arm and pointed to the hair tie.
Yoruichi raised an eyebrow and responded, "It's a hair tie".
"Don't pretend Yoruichi. I know why you gave it back to me."
"Because you won" Yoruichi walked over to Byakuya who was speechless. She sat down and looked Byakuya in the eye. "You caught me." She raised his chin lightly with her fingertips, and her lips meet with his, as softly as sakura petal falls to the ground. "I've stopped running," she kissed him sweetly once more, "please don't run away from me." She caressed his cheek gently. She gave him one of "his smiles".
Byakuya stared at her for few heartbeats as happiness started to fill him. His fingertip lightly traced her bottom lip. He quickly recaptured her lips stealing her smile. Its not settled Yoruichi not until…"Say you'll never leave me," mumbled Byakuya against Yoruichi's lips.
"I'll never leave you". Yoruichi playful bit his bottom lip before kissing him fully. "However, we should stop before you hurt yourself." Byakuya frowned and Yoruichi kissed his forehead melting the frown away.
She gave him one of "his smiles". The corners of Byakuya's mouth curled upwards in response. Yoruichi couldn't resist tasting Byakuya's smile. It was so tasty she purred in response, "Maybe just a little while longer".
"Like a 1000 years", responded Byakuya. He laid kisses from the nap of her neck back to her lips.
"Byakuya I was thinking more like 2000 years". A mischievous catlike grin covered Yoruichi's face.
"You're a greedy woman, Yoruichi Kuchiki."
"Wha-"
Byakuya captured Yoruichi's lips interrupting her response and crushing any argument to the new name at least for now and maybe the next 2000 years.
A/N:
Velveteen: Byakuya and Yoruichi won
Miko: Yes! No more QT, but I've gotta admit he's not such a bad guy. I still don't like him, but I don't hate him anymore.
Peace and Chaos: QT is not a bad guy.
Velveteen: He should've never gone to Mayuri. Mayuri is sadistic.
Peace in Chaos: Yeah Mayuri probably had a big smile on his face when Byakuya was taken away on a stretcher.
Miko: He's probably got it on video too. It didn't stop Yoruichi and Byakuya from getting together.
Velveteen: It's nice that Byakuya and Yoruichi's relationship moved up a whole new level in the last chapter. So this is good-bye.
Miko: Yeah and Yoruichi Kuchiki sounds better each time I hear it. I guess this is good-bye.
Peace in Chaos: Good-bye gees good-bye until you all show up to talk about Fantasy. This is the last chapter for The Uptight Prince and the Free-Spirited Cat. Thank you all so much for reading this story and making it to the last chapter. Wow, over a year and over 150,000 words, thanks so much for sticking around until the end. I am thinking of adding a epilogue, not sure the story is really long already. As always please leave a comment or review until next time peace.