Chapter six
Yeah that's right!
Ulquiorra laid in bed next to his mate waiting for the tiny arrancar to awaken. Paquena was still badly shaken, she hadn't allowed him to leave her side since they'd been reunited. Ulquiorra quietly stroked her shoulder as she slumbered. Downstairs was an entirely different. The children had been up for almost an hour. Aledjandro was literally up to his waist in his siblings. They were all hungry and grumpy. Momo was busy cleaning up the mess in the kitchen. Grimmjow and Yammy on the other hand were lounging on the couch reading the newest soul society gossip pamphlet. Gin Ichimaru ( the editor and chief of the magazine) had apparently outdone himself.
Grimmjow: Aledjandro! Can't you keep those brats any quieter!
Aledjandro promptly smacked Grimmjow in the head as he passed him. Grimmjow yelped.
Aledjandro: Lazy ass.
Momo kissed Aledjandro as she hurried past him.
Dionisio: Where's mommy?
Aledjandro: Sleeping, finally.
Lagarato poked his food and grimaced.
Lagarato: It's still not edible….
Aledjandro: God damn it Lagarato! You're a natural born you can eat human food!
Chiquita giggled as she sucked on her bottle.
Lagarato: lucky.
Upstairs Paquena began to stir.
Paquena: Ulqui…
Ulquiorra: You've woken.
Paquena: I feel much better.
Ulquiorra: Good, you're children need you.
Paquena: Oh! That's right Aledjandro's been in charge!
Paquena quickly dashed out the door and down the hall to her children. She quickly descended on the large group to the cheers and squeaks of her offspring. In a whirlwind of quick motherly motions she managed within a half hour to set the household back in order. The adujcan babies were back in their kennel and properly fed. The Vasteo Lordes children were also fed something which they could stomach properly. Grimmjow and Yammy were up and at um working in the kitchen to cook the hollow she had just had them catch in Hueco Mundo. And to top it all off she got Aledjandro and Momo to sit down and relax. By the time Ulqiorra walked down stairs properly cleaned and dressed the homestead was back in order.
Ulquiorra: I see everything is in order you did very well Aledjandro.
Aledjandro sighed and collapsed onto Momo's shoulder.
Paquena: Yes, I think you did wonderfully.
Aledjnadro: But it wasn't-
Paquena: And you think someone else could do a better job?
Aledjandro/Momo: …
Ulquiorra nodded in approval. He then turned to his eldest son in a sterner fashion.
Ulquiorra: Aledjandro I believe we have some business to tend to?
Aledjandro slowly rose in interest.
Aledjnadro: I thought we'd agreed not to force a conflict.
Ulquiorra: I've changed my mind.
Aledjandro smirked with intrigue. Momo looked to Paquena with concern. Paquena had gone into the kitchen to wash dishes. She hid herself so she wouldn't have to deal with her own family's hate for her first born son.
Nanba walked to his company with a slight spring in his step… Okay a huge spring in his step. He was beside himself with joy. Suddenly he ducked and hid as he spotted Gin on the horizon. Gin mossied along reading his own gossip pamphlet, cooing all the while. Nanba relaxed deeming he hadn't been spotted. He then continued along to 10th company unhindered.
Nanba walked into the company hanger, he was surprised to see that no one was present. He looked left then right. Even the captain and Matsumoto were gone. He then turned around to go looked for them when he suddenly halted. Silhouetted by the bright mourning sun were two arrancar whom he'd come to fear. Ulquiorra took his right hand out of his pocket and pointed in forward.
Ulquiorra: Cero…
The blast of energy carried Nanba fifty feet back into the hanger. Nanba was initially shocked at the swiftness of what had happened. He hit the tan peat and sand floor with a thud. Dust flew up from all sides as he landed straight on his back. Ulquiorra approached. He stopped, slamming his foot on Nanba's throat. Nanba grimaced.
Ulqiorra: … that should have killed you.
Aledjandro scowled at the realization that Nanba's skin was capable of withstanding cero. Just like his.
Nanba had survived but he was badly burned. His chest and arms took the brunt of it. His flesh steamed as the residual energy of the cero faded away.
Ulquiorra: To think you were alive all this time and I didn't know.
Nanba just starred at him in confusion.
Ulquiorra: You never wondered?
Nanba's brow furrowed.
Ulquiorra: You've lived your whole life not knowing who your own mother was!
Ulquiorra roared with anger.
Ulquiorra: You're a bastard you know, a horrible mishap. You're parents were even to ashamed of you to keep you with them! All these years…
Ulquiorra trailed off glaring at Nanba's dark purple eyes.
Ulquiorra: …and you have your mothers eyes… how could I have not know you were the child of my mate.
Nanba's eyes widened in disbelief. He began to struggle and thrash under Ulquiorra's foot. Ulquiorra kicked him in the head to silence him. Nanba passed out.
Aledjandro: We didn't agree on that!
Ulquiorra turned his head to face him.
Ulquiorra: Agree on what?
Aledjandro: Telling him! I thought we would just kill him and be done with it!
Ulquiorra: Whether I like it pr not he's still he child on my mate and your older brother. I can't know that and still destroy him, Paquena would never forgive me.
Aledjandro: I could!
Aledjandro lunged forward with a hand on his sword. Ulquiorra lifted a hand calmly top stop him. At that time captain Hitsugaya entered.
Toshiro: Stop!
Aledjandro halted turning slowly to face the captain. From the look on his face, you'd swear he'd been planning to strike Toshiro. Toshiro looked very stern as the rest of the Captains walked up next to him on either side.
Toshiro: That boy is the son of the Captain General and a proper member of Soul Society, we can not allow you to harm him.
Byakuya: Should you choose to persist-
Kenpachi: We'll flatten you.
Gin; When did this intervention become so rehearsed?
They all turn to face him rather annoyed. Gin slowly shrugged.
Gin:… it just seemed like you planned that, that's all.
Aledjandro: It doesn't matter.
He threw down his sword.
Aledjandro: This is stupid anyway.
He glared at his father and walked out. He roughly brushed past Toshiro as he passed. He then stopped and turned around to face the captains.
Aledjandro: Oh and next time you feel like threatening me…
He glared sharply at them.
Aledjandro: Put your kid in Nanba's place then imagine what would happen if you hadn't walked in!
He snorted and walked out.
Ulquiorra paused after he left for a few moments processing what to say.
Ulquiorra: Forgive him. He's young and….
He paused again thinking of something to say.
Ulquiorra: His mate is very cranky.
None of the captains laughed. Gin then burst into an earth shattering cackle which quickly reminded them of the other reason he creeps everyone out.
Toshiro: Right then, lets go. There doesn't seem to be a problem anymore.
Kisuke: I'll take him home, he's going to have a million questions tonight. Is it alright if he has tomorrow off captain?
Toshiro: He can have the week.
Ulquiorra still seethed hatred for the boy. Kisuke quickly approached Nanba to interfere incase Ulquiorra changed his mind.
Kisuke: I suppose this was particularly hard for you Mr. Shiffer.
Ulquiorra looked up at him.
Ulquiorra: How did you know the topic of our argument?
Kisuke: We'll there's only one reason I know of for you to come attack Nanba that's all.
Ulquiorra: No, I mean how did you know about the reason.
Kisuke: Oh, I delivered Nanba. In fact I was the one who cared for your wife while she was pregnant with him. Truth be told his parents met in my shop… well reunited I'd say is more accurate.
Ulquiorra scowled.
Ulquiorra: I see. How many more people are aware of who his mother is?
Kisuke: Well lets see. Me, you, Paquena, Ichigo, Hichigo, Aledjnadro and your family, and Yuroichi. Other than that no one.
Ulquiorra: So it will be kept at a minimum then.
Kisuke: Yah, Ichigo always thought it was better he didn't know for his own safety, but now that the cats out of the bag he might as well know why you all hate him I guess. There isn't any chance you'll come try and kill him again is there.
Ulquiorra: No.
Kisuke: I see. I won't bother you further.
He then picked Nanba up over his shoulder and posed to carry him off.
Ulquiorra: Wait. You said my wife has met that man before. What did you mean.
Kisuke stopped and turned to face him again.
Kisuke: I mean her other side knows him from before Paquena existed. In fact I'm pretty sure they were mates.
Ulquiorra nodded slowly. Kisuke turned and left the hanger. Ulquiorra followed the dispersed captains several minutes later.
Nanba awoke in a panic in his dark bedroom. He sat up throwing the sheets off himself scrabbling to prepare for battle. It took him a minute to realize he was not in danger. After he stopped panting he grabbed his head and started bawling realizing the implication of what he had recently learned. Kisuke opened the door to his room.
Kisuke: Oh, you're awake finally.
Nanba continued to sob. Kisuke sat down next to him slowly waiting to see if Nanba wanted him to leave. Nanba continued to cry for several minutes. Kisuke just sat there until curiosity made Nanba stop.
Nanba: You knew didn't you, you knew everything and you never said a word.
Kisuke: It's funny how often that happens.
Nanba punched him in the face. Kisuke didn't move.
Kisuke: I understand you'll want to ask some things?
Nanba: Yes! Everything! Tell me everything you left out about who I am! I'm half Hallow! I've been half Hallow and never known!
Kisuke: Well that definition depends on what you label your mothers as seeing as how her genetic markers-
Nanba punched him in the face again. This time Kisuke grunted.
Nanba: I don't want to hear your stupid rationality! I want the truth!
Kisuke: Alright you're half Hallow. Has it ever bothered you?
Nanba: It bothers me now!
Kisuke: Has it ever bothered you before now?
Nanba: No! But it would sure explain why I heal so fast, why I move quicker than soul reapers do, why I can deflect energy with my bare flesh! Why I occasionally get hungry and nothing will feed me! Am I hungry for human souls? Is that it!
Kisuke: No not at all, you're hungry for Hallow meat, that's entirely different.
Nanba: That's...(he calms down quickly) disgusting! Really?
Kisuke: Yes, your mother only eats Hallows there's no reason you should eat anything else.
Nanba: So why haven't I starved?
Kisuke: I've been giving you this vitamin supplement I invented that gives you the nutrients you would get from Hallows.
Nanba: When! I've never eaten any vitamins.
Kisuke: Who said they were vitamins?
Nanba: You! Just now!
Kisuke: Well that doesn't mean they're in pill form.
Nanba: … wait what form are they in.
Kisuke: I've been injecting you in your sleep once a month your whole life.
Nanba's mouth hung open for a moment.
Nanba: That is so creepy…
Kiuske: *chuckle* I know. What else do you want to know?
Nanba became much calmer all of a sudden. He stopped yelling and looked down at his knees.
Nanba: Why didn't my parents want me?
Kisuke: Well… Ichigo really isn't your father to begin with, Hichigo is. And Paquena's not your true mother either. You're really the son of Paquena and Ichigo's other halves. Those two are well… lets just say old friends. It was never a matter of want, they couldn't keep you. Paquena had a mate waiting for her in Hueco Mundo and Ichigo had no idea if he'd still be able to control his others side further down the line. It was deemed for your safety…
Kisuke put a fatherly arm around Nanba's shoulder.
Kisuke: That you should just stay her with us. Nanba you know these things, you know why. The only difference now is the who. It's not important who your mother is. Sure it may cause a few complications in your social life, but kid…
Nanba turned to face him.
Kisuke: You're going to do fine.
Nanba smiled a little. Kiuske stood up and walked toward the door. Before he left he turned back to Nanba.
Kisuke: Now, get some sleep. Taro came by earlier. He's having a party at his place tomorrow, and your invited.
Nanba: Thanks.
Nanba rolled over and got back into bed.
Kisuke turned off the light and closed the down behind him.
Yuroichi was waiting in the hall.
Yuroichi: Well? How is he?
Kisuke: Doing well. We raised a strong kid. Would you do me a favor and put some water on for tea?
Yuroichi: Sure.
The two of them walked down the stairs.
Yuroichi: So do you think the Hallows are going to try and hurt him anymore?
Kisuke: No Ulquiorra seemed very steadfast in his decision. That boy of his might pull something though. But between you and me I think our Nanba can take that punk.
Yuroichi: *Snort* Maybe now that the kid knows what he's capable of he'll start fighting like the Soul Reaper he could be.
Kisuke: Yes this should defiantly give him some extra confidence. I was surprised today. He took one of Ulquiorra's ceros from point blank and lived. Hell, I was just up there and as far as I can tell he's not even in pain.
Yuroichi: All he needed was a good nights sleep?
Kisuke: Yes. Just like…
Yuroichi: His father?
Kisuke: Well, now. Ichigo used to have lots of help from that nice little red head girl. What ever happened to her?
Yuroichi: Oh I heard she got married to some business man who made a fortune in craft sales. They have a family of their own if I remember correctly.
Kisuke: She must be almost forty now.
Yuroichi: And look how little we've changed? Isn't being a Soul Reaper great?
Kisuke: Just look at Ichigo he'll out live his friends by a hundred years plus.
Yuroichi: I'd say he'd miss them if he still talked to any of them.
They both became quite. Yuroichi went and picked up the tea. She gingerly poured two glasses for them both. Kiuske watched her do so. As he observed her he smiled. They'd never spoken of their romantic fondness for one another but every now and then Kisuke would show it slightly. Yuroichi turned around with the tea. Kisuke's eyes snapped up to meet her face. Yuroichi smiled. She enjoyed catching him starring, it was one of the reasons she wore tight clothes. The two sat down together. Kisuke sipped the tea. Yuroichi gracefully stirred her cup. The two paused for a few moments before they looked at one another at last. Yuroichi paused for a long while gazing at her best friend. Kisuke did not smile, in fact his look could be described as almost pained. Yuroichi leaned forward to him for a moment then Kiuske smiled and stood up.
Kiuske: I must be off to bed now or else I won't be able to get to work on time.
Yuroichi: Yes…
She trailed off a bit disappointed. Kiuske went up stairs to the master bedroom. Yuroichi looked back down at her tea for a moment. She then sighed and smiled.
The following night at Taro's house.
The whole house was in state of general rejoice it was Taro's nineteen birthday and everyone was ecstatic. It was a small party between Taro's friends. Ai, Nanba, Neyoshi, Momo, and Aledjandro were all present. Aledjandro was on his best behavior even though he was still furious. Taro was chatting Neyoshi's ear off about some woman he saw earlier and how much he wishes he got her number. Ai had been sitting on Nanba's lap for the past half an hour. The two of them had been very intimate since Nanba had told her about the day before.
Ai: I really wish you would have called me or something, I could have helped you.
Nanba: It's all right Kisuke had it covered. I'm all right now.
Ai: That's you, Always suppressing emotions.
Nanba: Good thing too or you'd be indecent at the moment.
Ai: Nanba!
She squeaked with delight at her new boyfriends teasing. She sat up and walked into the kitchen to go get some punch. Nanba stayed where he was. He leaned his head on his hand as he admired the party.
Neyoshi: So why the celebration usually we just go spar on your birthday so something like that.
Taro: Well if I shamelessly defeat you in front of your fathers company one more time they might loose total respect for you entirely.
Neyoshi: Oh so this is all on my behalf?
Taro: Pretty much.
Momo: Why aren't your parents home?
Taro: Oh I think their on a date or something like that.
Momo: Okay, whatever you say tiger?
Taro: Why does it matter?
Momo: It's just their always at your parties. It's weird not having them here.
Taro: Speaking of parents, when are you and "Natural Boy" over here going to have kids. From what I hear you're serious.
Momo blushed red and hid her face in Aledjandro's arm. Aledjandro didn't seem to mind the comment though.
Aledjandro: Why? What have you heard?
Taro: I heard you two are "mates".
Aledjandro: That's true.
Taro: So doesn't that imply "mating"?
Aledjandro: That's true.
Taro looked surprised.
Taro: You're not denying it!
Aledjandro: Why would I? I've worked to hard for this relationship to be open to hide it now.
Taro: That's true but what will people say! I mean she's not a Hallow like you!
Aledjandro: What's that supposed to mean?
Taro: Well for one thing she's not to maturity yet!
Momo; Hay!
Taro: Sorry it's a fact you're only eighteen! And another thing! Isn't Hallow physiology different than a humans?
Aledjandro: What do you mean?
Taro: Well your stuffs different than say mine or Neyoshi's.
Aledjandro laughed shortly at how immature Taro was being.
Aledjandro: Sure if that's how you want to put it. Why do you want to know so much about this stuff?
Taro: You're changing the topic! My point is-
He addressed Momo.
Taro: Your intercourse can't be comfortable.
Ai: Okay we're talking about intercourse and I'm not invited, what's going on!
Ai strutted back in with new drinks for her and her boyfriend.
Momo: Ai, Taro's being grows he keeps asking about our genitals!
Ai: So Al, are the rumors true? What's it like?
Ai sat down on the couch next to Nanba again.
Aledjandro: I really don't think this is the topic for a birthday party.
Taro: Nonsense! It's my party and I'd like to study Hallows someday. Maybe not hallow reproduction but something like that.
Aledjandro: So you do want to be a biologist of my kind.
Taro: Yah, I've been interested in Menos Grande behavior for awhile now. In fact I've been offered a job in science division.
Everyone got quite.
Neyoshi: But… there's a hundred year study period required for a field like that. You'd have to leave-
Taro: Immediately I know. I made my decision a week ago I leave tomorrow.
Everyone looked at him in disbelief.
Taro: This isn't my birthday party, it's my goodbye party.
Everyone stayed quite for away. Ai stirred her drink. Momo looked down at her feet. Nanba turned his face toward Ai's neck and Neyoshi just starred at Taro.
Neyoshi: So that's it you're just leaving?
Taro: Yah, I catch a transport with some other guys in the morning.
Neyoshi: Will we hear from you at all?
Taro: Whenever I can get the time sure. I'll write to you guys all you want.
Neyoshi nodded fighting back a few tears.
Taro: Sorry guys I've got to go…
He was really speaking just to Neyoshi now. Taro looked down at his feet unable to meet his gaze. Taro then walked out of the house leaving all of them to their thoughts.
Ai: Wow, I never thought he'd be the one to grow up the fastest.
Neyoshi: That's not growing up that's running away.
Momo: Neyoshi! He's just trying to make his way in the world. Unlike you he's not going to inherit sixth company someday.
Neyoshi threw down his glass and yelled at Momo.
Neyoshi: WE'VE BEEN PLANNING TO RUN SIXTH COMPANY TOGETHER SINCE WE WERE FIVE!
Momo hid behind Aledjandro. Al moved his arm to protect her behind him.
Aledjandro: You don't have to yell. Why do Soul Reapers always yell?
Neyoshi: Because I'm angry! Haven't you ever been angry!
Aledjandro slowly glanced over at Nanba who quickly glanced away.
Aledjandro: Yes.
Neyoshi: He's my best friend and now he's abandoning us, ME!
Aledjandro: Did you really expect him to live in your shadow his entire life?
Neyoshi stopped a bit taken back.
Neyoshi: He's never… we've always been… he's my best friend we're equal…
Aledjandro: Actually you remind me of the Prince and the Popper.
Neyoshi: That's not true!
Aledjandro: Think what you will. Come on Momo let's stop by your father's house before we go home.
Momo nodded and walked with him. Nanba and Ai left with them. Neyoshi stood alone in the house. He could here the cat coo-coo clock on the wall down stairs chiming. He finally moved. As he walked down the stairs he leaned heavily on the wall. By the time he got back to the Kuchiki house hold it was past dinner.
Hisana: Neyoshi what wrong you look horrible!
Neyoshi: Just some bad news mother nothing to be worried about…
Byakuya walked in from one of the side rooms carrying a lantern.
Byakuya: Neyoshi what's happened?
Neyoshi: Taro's going to study Hallows for awhile.
Byakuya's brow furrowed.
Byakuya: That must upset you.
Neyoshi: Not too greatly.
Hisana glanced at her husband with a worried expression. Byakuya gently glanced at a hallway. Hisana nodded and left the two to talk.
Byakuya: I suppose you'll need another second captain then.
Neyoshi: Or I'll wait until he comes back to inherit the company.
Byakuya chuckled under his breathe.
Byakuya: I'm fairly sure it's my decision when you inherit the company.
Neoyshi jumped at his blunder then bowed low to his father in a hurried fashion.
Neyoshi: I'm sorry father I didn't mean to be so presumptuous.
Byakuya: It's alright. You are my son and a teenager I'm surprised you don't say more things like that.
Neyoshi looked up at his father very confused. Normally Byakuya would never be so informal with anyone. Neyoshi smiled to himself.
Neyoshi: I'd like to retire now.
Byakuya: Yes I think that would be best. I won't be home until later tonight, there is an emergency captains meeting which I must attend.
Neyoshi: An emergency? Has something happened?
Byakuya: No nothing yet. But we fear something will.
Byakuya passed his son in the door way. Neyoshi watched as his father strode down the street toward the captain's meeting place. Neyoshi gulped and quietly prayed for his father's safety.
Aledjandro and Momo walked back into the Shiffer household. The children were all in bed already Grimmjow and Yammy were both out somewhere. Ulquiorra sat in the living room looking at a family photo album that Paquena had put together. Every time they had a new baby they'd had their picture taken over the past eighteen years, as he flipped through the pages he got a small glimpse of his family in intervals of three months. Ulquiorra lightly hummed at some of the pictures which he found particularly charming. Like the first one with Aledjandro. The picture showed him clumsily holding the rather large baby by infant standards. Paquena tenderly stood at his side bracing the child with her arms laced around Ulquiorra's. The three of them looked radiant together even with Ulquiorra's blatant awkwardness.
Aledjandro: What are you looking at?
Ulquiorra gestured for him to come look. Aledjandro approached his father as Momo went to hang up their coats.
Aledjandro: *chuckle* Is that me?
Ulquiorra: Yes, when you were born.
Aledjandro: I was huge!
Ulquiorra: Your mother never complained.
Aledjandro smiled and sat down next to his father.
Aledjandro: Where is mom?
Ulquiorra: She's gone out, I'm not sure where. She just said she needed to finish something.
Aledjandro looked confused and slightly angry.
Aledjandro: Wait she just left?
Ulquiorra: No, she's been gone for three hours.
Aledjandro suddenly noticed his father's left hand clenched onto his left knee. While the rest of Ulquiorra's features were calm and collected his hand looked like he had a death grip o his knee. The hand twitched as Ulquiorra noticed Aledjandro's glance. Ulquiorra removed the hand he held it lightly above the knee for a moment then clenched it into a fist.
Ulquiorra: I'm worried.
Soft grunts and hisses caressed the walls of the room. A long segmented tail with a barb at the end flicked out of the end of a makeshift bed in a torn down room in the outskirts of Soul Society. The room where the pair was nested was on the top floor of an apartment building which had once caught fire. Braced bits and pieces of original framing now comprised a room which was for the most part open. The ceiling was a mixture of tag board and tarps, the chard walls had huge holes for windows which exposed the couple at all sides. This scene occurred at comfortable altitude to look down at the ants that were out this time of night, infrequent passerby. Ichigo's second hallow form sat intertwined with a very beautiful but monstrous female Hallow. Paquena had sub come to her other half and now the more deadly side of her lay with her mate.
(Paquena's other half is named Casta) Casta: *pur* I missed you.
Hichigo: Likewise.
They spoke in a serious of low hums which comprised their language.
Casta: What have you been doing all this time?
Hichigo: Killing things mainly. You?
Casta: Having a crap load of kids, not exactly what I wanted.
She nudged the side of her headdress up against his mask affectionately. Hichigo playfully butted her to the side. She hissed at him then sank her claws into the side of his abdomen. Hichigo grunted then pinned that hand to their bed. Casta moaned and flipped over submissively. Hichigo pushed his body over the top of her compressing her to the mattress. She whimpered suddenly. Hichigo smiled sinisterly at her protests. She forcefully nipped him on the neck just below his mask in further protest. Hichigo sat up and used both hands to slam her body down onto the mattress. Her black scaled skin gleamed in the moonlight. Her soft hair spilled over the blankets as her completely black eyes stared back at her partner with loathing. Casta panted for a moment.
Casta: Does the boy know who you are.
Hichigo: No and I'd appreciate it if you didn't tell him.
Casta: Can't a moan your name in our language?
Hichigo: I told you no.
Casta smiled wickedly as she pulled her legs to either side of his hips.
Casta: Ama-
Hichigo: I told you no!
Casta: He can't speak our language.
Hichigo: It all gets translated in our head.
Casta: Communal living eh?
She softly traced the outline of the marking on his lower abdomen. Amador groaned and fell back onto her, successfully pining her again. She grunted again at the weight.
Casta: Don't you have some meeting to go to?
Hichigo: I don't hurry for them, they wait for me.
Casta: Funny how their best defense is an out of control monster.
Hichigo: Is that what you think of me?
She whispered in his ear.
Casta: They don't know you like I know you.
Hichigo sat up, this time preparing to leave. Now Casta genuinely protested. She pulled on his arm to try and get him to come back to bed. Amador brushed her off easily and went about getting ready to leave. Casta thrashed backward dramatically onto the bed, she snarled at her mate. Her nails dug into the fabric, her toes clenched as her feet struggled to find a foothold. Her knees bowed together as her whole body arched. Hichigo stopped what he was doing to watch for a moment. She turned her head to face him. Barley lifting one side of her mouth she snarled at him. Hichigo finished what he was doing then walked back over to his mate. Her tenderly bent down and nuzzled the side of her head for a moment. He then snickered and flash stepped away unexpectedly. Casta screeched and torn into the mattress.
Casta: AMADOR!
The Captains hall was cluttered with several representatives from each company. As many officers as possible were invited to see to the matter they were to meet on. Komamura frowned at the realization that Ichigo was still not present. Kisuke was standing at the head of the table next to the captain general's seat. Renji and Rukia were gathered around Byakuya.
Rukia: Brother what's this all about? What's happened?
Byakuya: There was an energy spike in Hueco Mundo. A scouting team had already confirmed Aizen has mobilized for full scale invasion.
Rukia: There's no way we're ready! We've barley fixed the city let alone fortified it!
Byakuya: It's too late for that now. We've called the meeting to discuss our options.
Renji turned to Rukia.
Renji: You should get to 13th company Ukitake might need you.
Rukia nodded and scurried off.
Renji turned to Byakuya again.
Renji: What are there forces like? Is it as bad as we thought?
Byakuya remained silent. Renji closed his mouth and hung his head. Ichigo bust into the room followed by the Hallows. Ulquiorra, Grimmjow, and Alejandro all walked into the meeting room. Some of the lower officers got them chairs. The three of them sat at the end of the table across from Ichigo's seat. Ichigo moved to his chair swiftly.
Gin: Where have you been?
Ichigo: None of your concern.
Ichigo sat down.
Ichigo; Are we ready to begin?
Komamura sat up to take attendance.
Ichigo: Save it. We don't care who's here.
The captains and the guests all settled in.
Ichigo; Alright someone explain to me what's happened?
Mayuri stood up.
Mayuri: 93 minutes ago we got a report from the research and monitoring department that one of our instruments monitoring the flow of Hallow energy in Hueco Mundo had broken. Upon attempting to fix it we discovered that it had in fact not malfunctioned, t was simply indicating a spirit pressure several hundred times greater than what are instruments could measure.
Mayuri sat down as Gin stood up.
Gin: In response my company and Hitsugaya's company went to go investigate. While in transit four of our lower ranking officers were overwhelmed by spirit pressure and were forced to return. Once we arrived we did not find any standing army, however from what I know of Aizens work it seems apparent he's mobilized.
Ichigo: How do you know?
Gin poped one hip.
Gin; No offense sir, but Aizen isn't stupid enough to parade his army around in front of us.
Ichigo: Thanks for the info.
Ichigo rolled his eyes and stood up.
Ichigo: Kisuke, I think it's time we start discussing that option you shared with me.
Kisuke: What certain death and impending doom?
Ichigo: If by that you mean the bomb, then yes.
Kisuke: Ichigo that is suicide!
Ichigo: So is trying to combat them head on.
Kenpachi: Says you.
Ichigo: Says Yachiru!
The room fell silent as they waited for Kenpachi's response. He simply sat down and removed himself from the conversation.
Gin: Excuse me but Cap' what's eating you?
Ichigo: Nothing. Kisuke's right it is suicide for one of us. If we use his secret weapon we will have to kill one of our own. And not just anyone, most likely someone in this room now.
Gin: Oh great here comes the storm.
Within moments everyone was shouting complaints and suggestions. Komamura's roars for silence we drowned out by the flood of sound.
Ichigo: ALRIGHT I KNOW!
Ichigo panted.
Ichigo: I know this is not going to be easy, we don't normally pick people out to die we just take care of them once they're dead. I'd like to act before I have to watch my…. All of you die.
Byakuya: And who exactly would you suggest captain?
Ichigo: Me.
The room erupted into arguments again.
Toshiro: Pardon me but this council has already elected you once this month I'm not about to elect you again!
Byakuya: Surly we aren't in such a poison to sacrifice our own captain general!
Komamura: If we destroy you we'll be back into chaos where Aizen wants us!
Gin: This is like Jerry Springer!
Komamura: Oh shut up, you!
Ichigo: It won't be a success unless someone with extremely large amounts of retsu uses it. Someone like myself or maybe one of the Hallows.
Toshiro: How exactly would something like this work?
Ichigo: Kisuke says it's just like using Bankai.
Kisuke: Though let the record show I have never personally tested it.
Gin: That's not exactly encouraging.
Ichigo: I've already decided.
Ukitake: Shouldn't we at least put it to a vote?
Komamura: Is there another option?
Ulquiorra: Yes.
Everyone turned to face Ulquiorra as he broke the silence at the end of the table. Ulquiorra stood up.
Ulquiorra: Nanba Kurosaki has the same amount of retsu to offer.
The room broke into shouts again.
Grimmjow: It makes sense! The kid is younger weaker, and a whole lot more useless!
Kisuke: That's my son you're talking about!
Ichigo: My son, actually.
Kisuke: No offense Ichigo but you haven't exactly earned the right to be called his father!
Silence took over no one wished to speak after that.
Byakuya: Put it to a vote.
Ichigo: Honestly could you let your son take your place!
Byakuya: No but, this isn't our family we're talking about. If you wish you can remove yourself from the voting.
Ichigo: I'm supposed to be Captain General aren't I? Don't I get to say if we vote or not.
Byakuya glared coldly.
Byakuya: The situation is too close to you. You're bias.
Ichigo: Like hell I am all of you are bias! You either know my kid or you're a father your self! Please don't send him to die!
Kisuke: Ichigo! Leave!
Everyone stared at the two of them. Ichigo turned and walked out without facing anyone.
Kisuke turned to face the group. He waited for the door to slam before he chose to speak.
Kisuke: Morally it's wrong to condemn a child to die. But these are extenuating circumstances, and I'll understand your decisions. Even if I personally think you
damned for choosing him.
The room stayed silent.
Kisuke: Lets vote.
Toshiro: Before we do are we sure that there is no other option? Can't we simply use one of our other weapons until we're certain?
Ignore this line it is a mistake.
Ulquiorra stood up and faced Toshiro. The two of them still hadn't patched up all of their disagreements over Momo, but at least then the two of them were calm.
Ulquiorra: I realize my people have been seen as enemies by most of you for as long as we have existed. I also realize that co-existing like this is a bit awkward for everyone. However as a member of the community against Aizen I feel I should express my feelings with you as one of you rather than a Hallow. Unless this council does something to stop that man he is going to use the Espada to destroy everything you and yours will have and have ever had! I am telling you as the level four Espada, that those above me will conquer this city in mere moments if that is there actual goal! They have been kind to us so far! But you are out of your mind to think they will grant us with peace permanently! For the sake of my children as well as yours, please DO SOMETHING!
He paused and regained himself.
Ulquiorra: Even if it means this kind of sacrifice.
Kisuke: I'm sorry I have to go.
Kisuke left the room abruptly after Ulquiorra finished talking. Kisuke turned to face them all in a haze.
Kisuke: Please just promise me what ever you decide that you'll choose because it's the right thing to do. Not because…
Kisuke glared at Ulquiorra.
Kisuke:.. Of old wounds.
Kisuke left the room through the opposite door that Ichigo had existed through.
Ichigo sat in the hallway for about half an hour. Hichigo gloated in the back of his head all the while. Ichigo turned when he heard the door open next to him. He looked away lethargically as Rukia entered. Rukia tried not to make eye contact by looking off at a nearby wall.
Ichigo: Any news?
Rukia: They've decided.
Ichigo: And?
Rukia: You got your way, they chose you.
Ichigo exhaled and relaxed.
Rukia: I've never seen someone so happy to get a death sentence.
Ichigo: It's better than letting him die. I already have enough blood on my heads.
Rukia: Well good I'm glad you're happy.
She said curtly.
Ichigo: … Rukia-
Rukia: Save it I don't want any last sappy confessionals now just because your going to die!
Rukia stormed back into the meeting hall where the rest of the Captains were sitting. The crowed didn't falter in their argument as Rukia stomped in. As soon as the door was shut she walked with more dignity. She slowed her pace and walked with her hands clasped together in front of her. Renji leaned forward to comfort her as she passed but she didn't pay him any mind. Renji tightened his hand to a fist and grimaced shaking his head. He sat down again behind Byakuya. Rukia sat down beside Ukitake as the discussion finally slowed. Gin stood placing a long tin hand on the table.
Gin: Well what ever you arrange do it fast. Rani and I are going home to…
He smiled devilishly.
Gin: Sleep, if anyone's looking for us send Izuru.
Izuru sagged and wined slightly. Gin casually struck him upside the head sending comically careening to the floor.
The rest of the Captains began to leave as the commotion ended. Kisuke still sat in the hall. Ulquiorra walked up to him.
Ulquiorra: That was uncalled for. You didn't need to make a scene like that.
Kisuke: I had to make a point.
Ulquiorra: What point?
Kisuke: You may be on our side but we are still enemies you and I. I'll always be there to protect Nanba and no you know that. So which one have they elected to die? The boy who was my student? Or the man I raised?
Kisuke smiled already knowing the answer to his own question.
Ulquiorra: They chose Ichigo.
Kisuke stood up and looked him in the eye. He nodded his head respectfully then walked off.
Kisuke: So they did.
Hay guess what chapter six boooyy!
Wooohooo!
Alright no preview this chapter because next chapter is the end! Woooooohhhh! Thanks for waiting!