Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach.

*If I did- well that end… NOPE. Not gonna rant here- ya'll know I'm an Ichiruki-er and I'll stay that way- 'nuff said.

Soo… Hiya! Sorry bout the wait.

FYI: I played a little fast and loose with Isshin's character (he's a goof, but seems to be a good, stalwart father in Tite's Bleach)- you'll understand when you read the first scenes and get an idea of the reason for the less than warm reunion between father and son.

Previously:

In the audience hall- Ichigo stands at attention, is distracted by "Sheth's sister", is bored by his commander's speech, and finally shocked by the appearance of his long lost father. Rukia is blindsided by Ptolemy's intrusion, her handmaiden's display, and Byakuya's nonchalance regarding it all. Here we are.

I hope this chapter is enjoyable!

Seducing Setesh

Chapter 7

His fury gave his feet pattern. His sandals slapped the sandstone, when normally his steps were silent. The afternoon had slipped into evening and he was grateful as the heat of his anger was enough to cause him to perspire.

Ichigo wasn't even certain what wing of the palace he had ended up in. But the atrium was quiet and shaded, the stone cooling as the daylight waned. He'd yet to notice any of his fellow officers or any of the household's staff, which was truly a gods' send. He could not be sure that his temper would remain in check if he were to be confronted. An hour, then two passed and the words spoken by his estranged sire replayed over and over.

"I found what I needed here. Harsh as that may sound to your ears- it is true. I'm a better man for having ventured here as I could not have come to terms with your mother's death in that house. I… had no intention of lingering for so long- I was swept up- I was lost in my grief in the Seireitei- caged in it. It's a poor excuse- I know- I… Well- it's not always convenient how a man finds solace and sanity- so often he is forced to leave things behind in the seeking."

He had shaken his head in refusal. He could not accept such reasoning. Surely a man's family was his true foundation- and any storm could be weathered with such strength behind him. It did not take a journey of thousands of miles to find resolve- to find one's self again. The young man had said as much to the man, but Isshin had simply listened, a steady calm in his eyes as though he had been expecting such argument.

"And what about what we needed? Your family? We were trying to cope too- while you were off gambling and drinking in every shithole in the Rukon, we were tryin' to keep it together! We didn't have to go half way across the world to deal with mom's death… For those four years we found what we needed with each other- but you- you sad fucking excuse- you couldn't lift your head from your own puddle of sick long enough to acknowledge our own struggle- to be our father! Four years and you couldn't find solace with your own family and took the first opportunity to ditch them… What man does that?"

He could still taste the bitter saliva gathering in his mouth- the words burning on his tongue as he spat them out. Barely had he restrained his fists; there was just no telling what might happen if he had started swinging.

In the end he had only been able to walk away- turn his back with next to no understanding spared for the man he left behind. Isshin had not attempted to follow him and he was uncertain whether to be relieved or further angered by this.

Finally he paused in his pacing, leaned back against a pillar, shoulders slumping. Ichigo closed his eyes, tipping his head back, letting the light still angling in from the sinking sun bathe his skin.

"The purpose I serve here- I think you shall comprehend in time…Son… Whether I've been right or wrong in taking this path- I am standing before you now. You were deserving of an explanation- perhaps not the most desirable- but I have laid one before you. It is up to you whether to find some worth in it- if there's any to be found. I'm in no way excusing myself- I've been a wretch- a degenerate… Your sisters- you- ought to have had a better man to call father- I- I know that… I hope you do not find it insulting at this point, but…" He had bowed forward- deeply, dropping his head in true contrition. "I sincerely apologize."

"He apologizes…" He sneered, a bitter laugh passing his lips. But despite the explanation and contrition, only questions burned a path in his mind.

An apology… For what- leaving? For staying away so long without any word? For being a drunkard and pissing away the family's money? For… mother? What does he want- to reconcile? With those words- words I once hoped to hear- what am I to do with them now?

Perhaps it was the sunlight pouring in through his eyelids, the sting at the corners of his eyes… He slapped a hand over his weak, traitorous eyes, gritting his teeth against the burst of overwhelming anguish in his breast.

…

She had practically fled.

As soon as the Domino had deigned to retire after the too tense and utterly awkward meeting, Rukia had quit the hall with a polite excuse. Somehow, the Domino had known better than to approach her after, and even this set fire to her already heated blood.

It had certainly not gone as expected as the majority of the court was dismissed, leaving Ptolemy and his retinue, Rukia and her staff, and the Domino and two of his officers. The air was even more fraught with palpable unease and mistrust as the two rival factions sat across from one another, the Domino acting as mediator between. It was bad enough that Rukia could barely keep a cool expression when facing the men that had conspired to kill not only the queen, but her- she could not even look in the Domino's direction without her jaw clenching.

Too, she did her best to ignore Renji's gaze as while he tried to seem neutral (standing at attention behind his captain)- every time the alliance was mentioned he flinched slightly, eyes shading to near black. But what man would be completely indifferent to talks of his former fiance's marriage negotiations?

This she tried not to think on either.

It all made the young Queen-to-be rather sick to her stomach, but she braved through it, even managing to nibble at the food offered by servants who seemed just as anxious in every coming and going. But she was not the only one with little appetite; she noted as Ptolemy's band eyed every dish with suspicion, passing on the majority.

The meeting was brief- the hostility never truly leaving the atmosphere, only dulling slightly as it went on. It was only the beginning of a tentative negotiation. While they'd all left with what might be considered a partial truce in mind, both parties knew the feud was far from settled. It had only been the Domino's presence that kept matters civil and drove any talk of a political joining of houses.

One of the twins fell in line behind her when she left the hall, quietly, a large silent shadow at her back. By his energy she knew it to be Andros and couldn't help but feel a bit more at ease with him near. She hated to play favorites, but between the two Nubian mercenaries, Andros took top bill over his brother. Neither wasted words, in fact speech from them was rare, but while Dax loomed, somewhat imposing, Andros was unobtrusive. He knew how to offer his employer privacy.

However, Sanura, as servant's go, was a different matter. Her presence couldn't be ignored.

When Rukia felt the other woman fall in at her heels as she hurried down the corridor, her defenses rose in a blink.

Finally Rukia turned on her heel, stopping to face her meddling handmaiden, clear anger in her stance. The alcove around them did not echo, keeping sound muffled so each word might pass only between the two.

Her fists were trembling at her side and her frustration only rose as she traced the familiar features of her handmaiden who reflected utter calm. No- not calm- there was an edge of triumph quirking her lips slightly and lighting her eyes.

Turning her head away Rukia cursed in Latin under her breath- words very unbecoming of a noble lady- more suited to any mobster in the Rukongai.

When she was able to speak without shouting or spitting bile her gaze was icy fury, "What are you playing at Sanura? You've known things and kept them from me!"

In response the woman's head bowed in reverence to her, the look of satisfaction dying away in the face of her mistress' anger.

Evenly she answered, "I only made an assumption. I knew the Domino would not put the state in jeopardy by simply installing you alone as queen. I had to put forth your bid before him- it was a test that proved my theories."

Eyes flashing, Rukia was forced to take another breath before responding, "I realize he needs time and strategy. He cannot want my opposition raising a rebellion. For the time being- he is really just appeasing them- isn't he? He cannot be fool enough to believe Ptolemy and his council will suffer my title as queen- whether it is- at Ptolemy's side or not."

Sanura nodded slowly, taking a step closer, her voice lowering yet gaining in intensity, her words earnest, "He is certainly biding his time… Taking opportunity to consider his position… As you should, my lady…" There was a degree of anxiety now ringing in the woman's voice- urgency and excitement warring. Rukia swallowed uneasily. "My lady, think what can be done if you consider making this alliance with Ptolemy real! You two might band together to cast that pompous man out! Make this country strong with the mingling of Seireiteian and Ptolemaic blood!"

"Sanura!" Rukia stared wide-eyed, shocked by her maid's words. She shook her head slowly, her heart speeding up in sudden fear, "You cannot be entertaining this idea of… marriage?" A wave of nausea hit her as she considered the implications.

But the handmaiden's gaze did not waver, her eyes jade fires, "Unite with Ptolemy- send the Domino on his way! After that- well- Ptolemy will have served his purpose. You can gather your allies-,"

"What allies?!" The young heir countered swiftly, "Ptolemy's camp will not suddenly turn to me because I've married their child-pawn! And Seireitei has lands across the east in its pocket- those who wouldn't dare oppose it!"

Sanura frowned momentarily, but shook her head in denial, insisting, "If we take a stand- others oppressed by Seireitei will rally! We have the resources- you know that is why those dogs sink their teeth in!"

"Those resources are the reason those dogs will keep their jaws locked tight!" Rukia hissed, "They won't just roll over! Even if we manage to drive them off they will return in force and make us submit until the land is broken and bleeding- all due to some over-zealous pride!"

Sanura's lips sealed tight in frustration for a moment before they parted to argue again.

But Rukia cut her off sternly, raising a hand for silence, "No." She closed her lapis lazuli eyes to gather herself, taking an audible breath. When she met the other woman's eyes again there was no sign of relenting, "I did not want his help. I did not want him here. But Auletes had one thing right and that was to garner Seireitei's backing… I need… Kuckiki Byakuya's assistance to gain sole ruler-ship- I realize that now." She watched closely as the other woman dropped her sights to the floor, biting hard at her lip.

There was silence between them for a time before Sanura seemed to concede with a nod.

Yet, before she bowed to her mistress and retreated she murmured, "The Two Lands was once so glorious in its own… Must we bear a future of always bowing our heads?"

Rukia felt her stomach flinch at the soft words, her eyes following as Sanura turned away. She had no answer to such a disheartening query.

Brown eyes met hers from the entryway, the concern in her guard's gaze just barely concealed. She offered a small smile to Andros and a nod. The mercenary gave a nod in return and disappeared to trail the priestess.

Again her stomach seemed to protest all the roiling emotions balling up and settling into its pit.

"I need air," She whispered to herself a hand pressing to her abdomen. With a sigh she dropped her hand to her side and quirked a brow in a light smirk, "Or a good spar!"

…

She swept out into the atrium and while it was not the place she intended to idle she paused and took a deep breath. This small courtyard was closer to the mainland, and positioned just so that one could hear a bit of the din from the harbor. On the breeze she could hear faint voices, a busy port city with thousands of people. Scent accompanied this murmur, sea and palm, fire and of course the surrounding greenery of the ferns and flowers in their limestone beds. The white chiton ruffled about her ankles and she dug her hands in the fabric at her thighs as she inhaled and exhaled in a deep pattern.

Just as she began to feel a sense of stability return, she realized she was not alone.

Ichigo watched the woman closely, eyes scanning the lines of her body from where he was obscured by the stately white column. Her posture and actions betrayed her.

Perhaps he was not the only one who had faced uncomfortable truths today. He found it rather ironic that the young maid he'd been shamelessly eyeing in the audience hall was the one that he should find seeking the same sort of privacy as he himself.

Ah, Fortuna favors me- or so they say. He grimaced briefly. Many a man had made an envious remark about the ease with which things seemed to come to him- having no idea of his real struggle. But he refused to let an opportunity pass him by- especially when he was in need of a distraction.

And such a distraction. He unconsciously passed his tongue over his lip as the breeze swept her scent to him. He wasn't familiar with the fragrance- it was exotic and entreating. He took a step, let his presence be known as his sandals clicked on the stone beneath him.

She pivoted toward him, a fierce expression on her face as she looked up to meet his eyes. She appeared forbidding and all the more alluring for it.

A smile formed on his face, a strange current tingling along his nerves as he stared at her.

It had been so long since he'd allowed himself to look at a woman in this way. He'd found himself in too much trouble- his charm a natural draw to all sorts of women- even those with overprotective kin- or husbands. He had a reputation indeed, but it was truly only half deserved.

Finally he spoke, offering a light bow of his head to her, a gentlemanly gesture that only made her eyes narrow.

Amused he greeted, "Miss… Something I can assist you with?"

Truly, the gods must find great joy in tormenting me today! Why him?! The young woman lamented for a moment.

The smug way in which he spoke glided along her skin with an indescribable sensation. Rukia's frown deepened and she replied tightly, "I think not." As a maid she knew to offer a bow in acknowledgement to his station, thus she dipped her head to him. She took a step to leave, but he too had moved and she found herself retreating.

The lieutenant raised his hand offering quickly, "You look upset…"

The young woman drew herself up taller, stiffening further as she considered him from head to toe with a less than subtle look of disgust. Her pink lips pouted now, though she likely didn't realize, "How is that your business?"

Clearly she had no idea how fetching her opposition to him was. Women were unusually drawn to the orange-haired man, despite his sometimes sullen appearance. Having such attention had become somewhat of a bore. A challenge peaked his interest… And such a pretty one...

Ah, her skin looked so soft… That delicate face and frame was similar to her brother's-

Shit. He visibly startled and shook his head briskly. That was a weird thought… Um…

All the while, Rukia watched him with a lifted brow, both curious about his odd behavior and wary. She eyed him as he seemed to inwardly debate with himself, hands twitching at his sides. A small smile helplessly curled on her lips, amused by the seemingly indecisive lieutenant.

Thus when he impulsively stepped close and looped an arm around her waist, she was unprepared. He bent slightly, lips at her ear, pressing her against him, "Whatever it is that's upset you… I can help you forget… Leave your burden to me…"

The husky voice and sweet words forestalled her anger momentarily. His free hand touched her shoulder, glided down it slowly, fingers gentle, leaving gooseflesh. As he thought, her skin was like silk.

He did not expect the pain that burst beneath his breastbone as she shoved the heel of her hand into his chest.

As he tottered back with a grunt, releasing her, she faced him with furious sapphire eyes, "Lecher! What makes you think I want your filthy hands on me?"

Rubbing his hand on the likely bruised spot beneath his leather cuirass he could only stare at the red-faced young woman in awe. How could such dainty hands create such force?

Rukia knew that she was blushing and this only heightened her embarrassment as she sputtered, "If you- dare touch me- or- or any other woman of the palace in such a manner I will- ensure you're punished!"

"Pint-sized lil harpy…" Ichigo muttered the insult under his breath as the ache refused to leave his flesh. But soon he was smirking, helpless against his increasing attraction to the spitfire before him. "What," He teased smugly, "Gonna call your brother?"

The flush in Rukia's cheeks dimmed slightly as surprise barreled in and she gasped, "What?" Had he finally recognized her? If so- shouldn't he fear Byakuya's wrath? Then again this brash idiot was too foolish to acknowledge danger. She grimaced.

He shrugged carelessly, finally dropping his hand to his side, smirk still present, "I know your brother's a guard here… You're twins, right?"

Rukia blinked and then her face fell in a deadpan stare, before she finally turned on her heel, folding her arms over her chest. She shot him a warning glance, "If you know well that he is a soldier, why would you venture to accost me, you fool?"

At this Ichigo gave a snort, leaning back against the column he'd abandoned with all the nonchalance and easy grace of a prince, "Well- no offense- but he doesn't look that formidable…"

Rukia gaped in indignation, spinning on her heel, hands dropping to her hips, "He could grind you into the dust!" You dare underestimate me?

He chuckled in response, and she tried not to let the crooked grin affect her. He put a fist to his mouth, smiling from behind it, "You would say that- you're his sister."

She opened her mouth, but the look on his face gave her pause. There was something soft about his expression, as though thinking upon her- or perhaps a memory- with affection. Narrowing her eyes at him she turned away again, arms crossing over her chest once more.

"No," She finally muttered, "I'm saying that because he knows how to fight."

Ichigo's smirk returned, but he stood up straight and mirrored her, folding his arms. "Alright… Say he has some skill… How about a wager?"

It was Rukia's turn to give him a haughty, half smile over her shoulder, "Oh? So not only are you a lecher, but an unrepentant gambler?"

While his brow twitched slightly at this, Ichigo replied smoothly, "If you don't think he can keep up- just say so…"

Clicking her tongue in irritation whilst rolling her eyes the young woman pivoted towards him, "What's the wager?"

Brown eyes simmering with confidence, Ichigo met the maid's eyes. He raised one hand, spreading his fingers, "We spar to five. He wins- he can name his price… I win…" He took the few steps toward her until he was looking down at her, only a step between them. Rukia held her ground, ignoring the way her breath wavered due to his sudden proximity.

"I win," He continued, "You meet me back here… And we talk."

A black brow winged upward, a huff of disbelieving laughter passing her lips, "Talk? You would have me believe that's all you want considering your behavior earlier?"

She was taken aback by his response as the lightest of blushes flashed across his high cheekbones. He angled his arm back, scratching at the back of his head as he turned his gaze aside, "Ah, well- about that… Sorry. Impulse control is not always one of my strong suits."

Rukia's brows drew inward, frowning at this unexpected admission. How could he go from playful charmer, to shy boy so easily? Perhaps that contrast waspart of his appeal. She could think of nothing to say and it was just as well as he suddenly turned chocolatey eyes upon her.

"You are quite the beauty, you know?" He said, his gaze piercing and his voice, low and rich.

Make up your mind! She inwardly screeched, trying to fight off a blush. She steadied herself however and managed to glare at him, stating flatly, "You're despicable."

A grin lit up his face and he put up his hands in surrender, "Look- I mean it- we can just talk." Looking at her face, her suspicion of him was still plain. He gave a laugh and began to back away at an idle pace, "Seriously- you're one of the only people outside my men that speak Latin. You can tell me a lot about this place. Perhaps give me a tour?"

How arrogant! As though I have the time to play at guide! She inwardly fumed still giving him the stink-eye. Her eyes widened fractionally however when she realized what he'd said. Had she been speaking in Latin to him without realizing? So much for helping keep her cover.

As the young lieutenant turned he gave a wave, "After I win I'll have your brother let you know when we should meet. Hey- and you should work with him on his Latin. His skills are rather sad."

The tension sloughed off her like a rain shower. Oh right, he's an oblivious idiot. A soft laugh escaped her and she shook her head lightly as he disappeared from sight. The smile that had helplessly appeared fell into a scowl. As if I'd let such a man win a spar.

But as she swung around the smile re-emerged.

…

Far across the harbor and deep into Egyptian quarter in a two-story mudbrick dwelling, a merchant entertained his informant as his black cat listened from the windowsill.

The black fur was a stark contrast against the amber and orange rays of sunset pushing beyond the creature to fall languidly upon the carpeted floor. More than once did the informant falter in speech, distracted by the feline enough to offer the merchant a compliment regarding the pet. He seemed wholly taken by her- not simply due to his Egyptian heritage, but because he couldn't help but notice the strange shimmering shift to the ebony fur as though waves of gold were passing over it continuously.

Strange and lovely indeed. He thought as he took his leave.

While the man convinced himself his eyes must have been playing tricks on him (he was a busy man, working for the palace kitchens, yet living away from the main residence), any passerby beneath the window who may chance to look up might also find their eyes lingering on the regal cat gracing the window. For in truth this was no mere cat, but a Demi-goddess, whose true form only the merchant might now see.

Truly, framed by the dying sunlight was a tamarind-skinned beauty, naked, back leaning against the side of the window frame, her feet planted on the sill. Her hair was the most unique black as to have a plum hue, this she wore in a thick tail atop her head that cascaded down between her shoulder blades. Her honey-colored eyes absorbed the last of the light, luminous beneath the black lashes.

Upon his return from escorting his guest out, the merchant's eyes glided over the ample curves of the female fondly; he was the only one she could not conceal herself from as she was granted more of her earthly power. He moved past the threshold of the receiving room, sandals padding soundlessly over the intricately woven rug that spread the length and width of the room. He paused in the middle of the room and sank down on a cushion, picking up his neglected pipe. Smoke curled into the air as he exhaled from the side of his mouth. Out of the corner of his eye he watched the woman to his left stretch, his eyes lingering on the generous breasts as they jutted forward.

He allowed himself an indulgent smile and closed his eyes, bowing his head slightly as he took another drag of the fragrant herb nestled in the long-handled pipe.

"Just as you thought, things seem to be progressing toward the inevitable confrontations, my lady." Kisuke Urahara offered in an unconcerned tone.

With a knowing smile the Demi-goddess unfolded from the window and sashayed the few feet to mirror the merchant on the cushion opposite him, clearly unashamed by her nakedness.

"Indeed," She purred, leaning forward, chin in hand, elbow propped on her knee, "I much prefer this sort of happening to all that waiting about in the sand."

One pale grey eye opened to regard the woman, carefully remaining on her face, "Even if that means a war that might truly divide Alexandria?"

Stretching out her legs fully her toes brushed the man's pant leg as she leaned back on her hands. She shrugged her trim shoulders, "As you said, it's inevitable." Still her eyes darkened a bit, gold dulling enough that the merchant could see the conflict within their depths. But the light trace of concern fell away quickly enough; she knew the game of the world and understood the rise and fall necessary to the continuity of human existence.

Abruptly did she close her eyes, tilting her head back, before a smile stretched widely across her face.

"There are indeed many battles to come and not all will be played out on the killing grounds."

AN: Next chapter things pick up- relationships should progress and some historical plot points will unfold rather quickly to insure that the characters have more significant interaction. By the end of the chapter Ichigo might just make some realizations! And more canon characters will appear.

Thanks to all who've taken time to read and review!