The Lost King

by Liam G

Six years since they last saw each other last. Six years since they spoke those words to each other. Six years they've waited for the other to return. Now that wait is over as two childhood friends once again reunite on the eve of history and to begin their journey together to reclaim what is his by right. AU-non canon Universe.

1. Six Years Later

Disclaimer insert here: I don't own or have ever owned Bleach. Please make sure to buy official releases of Bleach to support further works. Thanks.

All characters belong to their rightful owners, all OC are for entertainment use only. As usual an M rating is for future violence, dismemberments, gore, language, very foul language, and of course lemons will be in, but don't expect a ton of them. Again, enjoy your time here.

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Response to reviews will now be located at the end for this story and any new story from this moment on.

Edited and co-authored by regfurby; please include in your reviews and comments, thanks.

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"Speech"

'Thoughts'

'Memories'

"Hollow Zangetsu"

"Quincy Zangetsu"

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A head with spiky orange hair slowly rises up from behind a bush, the brown eyes of the five year old boy darting left and right fleetingly before he steps through the bushes; he knows that she is near, his body instinctually alerting him to her presence. Cautiously, he pushes through the next set of bushes and finds nothing in the clearing but a lone tree, standing tall; he is confused as to where his playmate is until she taps him on his shoulder, causing him to jump in surprise.

"Gotcha Ichi-kun." Tia says as she hangs upside down from branch just over the young boy's head.

She giggles when he crosses his arms and scowls at her fiercely then. "Not fair Tia-chan, you climb trees better than me."

"Ah, come on Ichi-kun…it's the only way I know how to beat your speed." Tia pouts cutely much to the orange-haired boy's dismay.

Kicking the dirt under his tabi, Ichigo begins to smile at her. "Okay, fine you got me. Now can we go swimming?"

"Yes!" Tia drops from the branch and grabs her friend's hand before running to the nearby lake.

Once they are there, they strip down to their swimming clothes and jump in holding hands. For an hour, the two swim lazily with each other, when they near the deeper parts of the lake, he lets her hang off his neck to help her stay afloat. Finally, they both begin to feel tired and decide that they swam enough for the day, Ichigo lifts the smaller blonde out of the water when they reach the lake's edge before helping her wrap herself up with a towel.

"So, what now?" Ichigo says as he pulls his cotton shirt back over his head.

Tia pulls her pants up but leaves her shirt in the pile. "I think I need a nap…"

"…sounds good." Ichigo waits for her to put her shirt on but when she doesn't he shrugs his shoulders when she leads them to their spot under the lone Sakura tree.

Lying down first and using her towel for a pillow, the blonde-haired girl giggles when his orange hair tickles her stomach when he lays his head on her. Neither remembers how it started, all Ichigo knows is that he usually falls asleep within minutes once her hand starts threading his hair. This time is no different as Ichigo is lulled into sleep by the continuous motions of her fingers through his spiky hair. Looking down at his sleeping form, Tia smiles as she holds his head still as she moves into a comfortable position. Wrapping her arms around his waist, she curls against him as his warmth permeates her body.

'My dream is that… one day Ichigo….' Those are her last thoughts before she too joins him in sleep.

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Tia's eyes snap open as soon as she hears her maids outside her bedroom arguing once more. Groaning that her dream is once again interrupted by their ceaseless bickering, Tia tosses her blanket aside and rolls to her feet. Stretching, she gets up and walks to her bedroom door and snaps it open with a loud crash.

"Mila Rose! Sung-Sun! Apacci! Dammit to hell! I…I was having the best dreams again!" The three named Hollows snicker then as one as they turn their collective gazes upon their mistress.

"Oh? It wouldn't be about your boyfriend again would it your Highness?" Mila Rose taunts as she opens the door to the private bathroom.

"Must have been, look at how flushed her face is…only time it gets like that is when she's thinking about…" The lavender-eyed woman giggles out from behind her cloth covered mouth when green eyes focus on her.

"…Icchhhiiigggoooooooo!" Apacci exaggerates her mistresses' voice as she ends the taunt for her fellow Fracción.

Glaring at her three maids, who are also her bodyguards and best friends, Tia stomps her way towards her waiting bath. "So what if it was…is that a crime or something?"

The Fracción follow behind their mistress, Apacci checking the water, while Sung-Sun readies her white uniform for the day, leaving Mila Rose to wash Tia's back when she sits on her stool after discarding her soiled shift. Noticing how tight Tia's shoulders are, Mila Rose inquires what is troubling the blonde-haired princess.

"Father and Mother told me today that I would be receiving news concerning my future…" All three maids freeze then.

Sung-Sun puts down the white uniform of the Espada Elite she had picked out for the day; instead she turns her eyes to the rack of dresses that line the adjoining walk-in closet. "This… doesn't mean they have accepted someone else's offer of marriage Tia…"

Wrapping her arms around her mistress, Mila Rose whispers encouragingly into Tia's ear. "I'm sure they have taken in account of your wishes Tia. This arranged marriage from when you were born can't be enforced after all these years and besides… we all know who you are in love with. Even if it has been six years since you last saw Ichigo."

"I won't marry anyone else… not as long as I love him and he loves me."

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Brown eyes open slowly to the sound of someone pounding on his door. Pinching his nose he yells at the offending party.

"Dammit Suki! I was having a new dream!" Ichigo shouts as he sits up and runs his hands through his damp hair.

"Well you best hurry up or we'll be late again dammit! Ukitake Taichō wouldn't appreciate his Fuku-Taichō or Third seat being late today of all days! Especially with the all the rumors swirling around these past few months Ichigo, now get dressed so we can eat breakfast at home for once this week!" Arisawa Tatsuki shouts out as she leans against the wall outside of her friend's door.

"Yeah, yeah, yeah, I'm coming." Ichigo replies.

Walking to his closet, he grabs a freshly laundered uniform courtesy of Ishida Orihime, the miracle healer of the Shihōin-Shiba Clan. As he puts his uniform on, he suddenly thinks about how the young woman came to his Clan when she was six years old. Her family was originally from Hueco Mundo; she had been born to a human mother who prostituted herself so she could support her Hollow father, a drunk who was kicked out of the military because of his legendary and uncontrollable temper, Orihime only knew this because of her now deceased brother. It was because of those conditions that Orihime became the target of her parents combined abuse that eventually forced her brother Inoue Sora to snatch her away in the middle of the night and flee Hueco Mundo.

After crossing the border, the two settled in one of the smaller Shihōin-Shiba villages and began to live simple lives as farmers. Sora worked hard day and night in the fields to ensure his younger sister had everything she could possible want and for a few years the two lived peacefully until the night of her sixth birthday. That night renegade Hollows looking for easy prey crossed the border and raided the village. After a night of plundering and other horrible crimes that had been committed throughout the village, a few Hollows stumbled across Orihime and her brother hiding under an overturned cart.

Sora tried valiantly to protect his sister, but the Hollows were too strong in their released forms and after toying with him they killed him in front of his screaming sister by slitting his throat. It should have been the end for Orihime who still remembers the Hollows speaking to each other about selling her to one of the many brothels that existed in Hueco Mundo. Instead fortune would have it that a column of five hundred Shihōin-Shiba mercenaries and assassins on their way home from Seireitei came across the destroyed village and set upon exacting revenge for their people. Orihime had been one of the few survivors they found afterwards and not knowing what to do with her; they brought her to his family's main compound.

His mother needed only one look at Orihime's dirty and tear-stained face for her to decide to take her into the Clan proper. After speaking to the commanding officer of Shihōin-Shiba mercenaries, Masaki pleaded with Isshin to allow her to live with them, which he eventually did after only ten minutes. Orihime soon became one of his best friends when he was growing up; the first two had been the green-eyed Tia and his older cousin Uryū.

Uryū was another example of his family's strange relations. Ishida Ryūken was once a prominent doctor back in the Kingdom of Silbern until a coup d'état forced a number of Quincy to flee their ancestral homeland. Having nowhere to go with his young wife, the late Ishida Kanae, Ryūken took the chance that his Aunt might still be living in Las Noches. Ichigo was never sure why a Quincy would be living in Hueco Mundo as both races had an extreme hatred for the other, but the story he was always told was that he made it there safely and was taken in by the then Queen that ruled there. It was how Ryūken found out about his cousin, Ichigo's mother Masaki, was a member of the Queen's court.

A few years later, Ryūken and Kanae followed his mother to Soul Society when she married Isshin and gave birth to him soon after. Again the orange-haired Shinigami snickers at the possibility that he was a love child, but he knows that wasn't the case. His parents truly loved one another and the stories and tales he has heard since his first memories proved that, plus his batshit crazy father had a fifteen-foot portrait of Masaki painted in the main entrance of his family's home. It was in those early memories of his that he remembers meeting his glasses-wearing cousin for the first time. After getting his butt trounced by both his grandmother and grandfather, Ichigo was practicing his Shunpō when he accidentally crashed into his cousin for the first time.

Of course, it set the tone for their friendship; they had to be broken apart by the family retainers after starting a fight with the other. Even though they always treated each other antagonistically, they always came to the aid of the other; blood before all others was their unwritten bond. It was why he was Uryū's best man after his Quincy cousin finally got up the courage to ask Orihime to marry him. Laughing as he remembers how she had refused his cousin until after she got permission from a grinning Isshin that is was okay for her to say yes, Ichigo was thankful to see Uryū and Orihime find happiness after the years of tragedy that seemed to follow their families.

After setting his lieutenant badge in place on his upper right arm, Ichigo grabs his partners, the dual blades of Zangetsu and puts both of them on. He places the larger blade over his shoulder while the smaller blade slides through his obi. Once he feels his two spirits give their acknowledgment of their readiness, he opens the door to see Tatsuki's grinning face.

"What's with you?" Ichigo irritably asks the spiky haired Third Seat.

Shaking her head in amusement, she answers him as they walk down the hallway to the stairway. "How long has it been Ichigo? Six years since you last saw her, yet you dream about her every night. Why don't you use some of your leave and just visit her for Kami's sake."

Dropping his head in shame, Ichigo answers back. "That's the problem Suki, I haven't tried to see her, written to her or done anything in that time to contact her…what if she's moved on already…found someone else? I would feel like a fool just showing up out of the blue like that. No, I think it's best if I just leave it alone for now, I still have that other problem to deal with yet anyways."

"Goat-Chin still hasn't told you who you are arranged to yet?"

"Nope and I can't argue against it either…it was Okaa-san's greatest wish that I marry the girl she picked for me. I just wish…" He sighs as he sees Tia's tear filled emerald eyes again in his vision.

"She's right Ichigo. Maybe you should at least write and find out what the princess is doing. What's the worst that could happen?" Zangetsu mumbles out.

Frowning at the sudden interest from his white carbon copy, Ichigo asks his normally reserved spirit what's going on.

"The dreams have changed and become more incessant Ichigo. We feel that there is change coming in the near future, but we cannot say what that change will be. Also, her Royal Highness has become too clingy and pushy as of late, we do not like her aura or the feelings we get when we are near her Reiatsu... it feels… possessive." Juda Zangetsu answers.

Groaning in agreement, Ichigo pinches his nose as he descends the stairs behind Tatsuki; just thinking about Kuchiki Rukia was draining on him. Ever since his promotion to Lieutenant of Squad Thirteen, the only child of Prince Kuchiki Byakuya and Princess Kuchiki Hisana hasn't once hidden her feelings for him in private or her wish that he become her betrothed. Her less-than-subtle advances have already caused him to receive several private lectures from the Prince himself on his keeping his distance from his daughter and emphasizing the fact that he comes from a lower Clan then theirs. Snorting, he wishes Byakuya would tell his bitch daughter that so she would leave him alone.

Finding a seat between Tatsuki and Chad, another of his family's retainers, Ichigo bows his head as Orihime gives thanks for their meal. Once the customary prayer is done, he lets Orihime load up each of their plates.

"Eat up everyone; I fear it will be a busy day for all of you today." The burnt-orange-haired healer says as she sits next to her husband.

Drinking from his cup, Yasutora Sado asks the healer if she has heard anything new.

"Sorry Sado-kun, but the wild rumors and gossip that the younger nurses and doctors keep whispering haven't changed much from last week. Since Uryū is the Chief Surgical Resident of Seireitei Hospital, he and I will be attending the announcement as well as several other representatives for the hospital. I've also heard that a large number of civilian officials will be in attendance as well for their respective government branches. Has the Clan told you anything yet Ichigo-kun?" All eyes turn to him.

Chewing his food slowly, he washes it down with some tea before he grimaces. "No, sorry you guys. I'm in the dark just as much as you are. All I've heard is there have been messengers leaving Soul Society for months now and no one knows where they have been delivering messages to or from. Hopefully you're right about today Orihime, maybe we'll find out what's going on."

"So that means you haven't heard anything from your Otou-san Ichigo?" Uryū inquires as he looks over one of his patient's charts.

"Nothing, not even Yoruichi Sobo or Kisuke Sofu have said anything to me since showing up." The knowledge that his grandparents are in Seireitei has him on edge, not because of the news they might have knowledge of, but from the fact that he hasn't had a single decent night of sleep since their arrival a few days ago, at least until last night.

Thankfully he was able to slip away from the bar rather early with the arrival of his own Captain and the Captains of both Squad Four and Squad Eight of the elite Gotei Thirteen, the thirteen strongest divisions of the Reiō's armies. Kyōraku Shunsui and Unohana Retsu were among the strongest and oldest of the Captains, both easily over a thousand years old each. His own father had been a Captain until he disobeyed orders one day and left after receiving word that the Shihōin-Shiba Clans were fighting Hollows that were forcing themselves over the border to pillage their villages and towns as a result of the civil war raging throughout Hueco Mundo. It was also around the same time that his father first met his mother.

"You ready to go Tatsuki, Chad?" Ichigo asks ten minutes later as he walks his empty dishes to the sink.

Both get up with their own empty plates and thank Orihime for her delicious meal once again, Ichigo adding his as well as giving his cousin-in-law a kiss on her cheek. "Thanks, Hime, we'll see you and Uryū at lunch after the announcement."

"Okay Ichigo-kun, see you later Tatsuki-chan, Sado-kun." Orihime walks them to the door and waves to them as they begin to move away in a slow Shunpō.

As they cross over the myriad of rooftops, Ichigo's mind wanders back to his newest dream. It was strange that he would start to dream about the day he and Tia said their goodbyes when he left for the Capital, Seireitei. He remembers the tears his twelve-year-old best friend had in her eyes as she hugged him as if it was going to be the last time they would see each other. She was returning to Hueco Mundo to take her place as the younger Princess alongside her sister Lilynette who is ten years older than both Tia and him. Ichigo remembers the conversation easily this time unlike some of his other dreams.

'Please Ichi-kun; please remember to write to me at least once a month. And I'll write you back when I get your letters, I promise.' Her arms quiver as she tries and fails to keep her misery from showing.

Holding her waist as if his life depended upon it, he whispers into her blonde hair that he would. 'I promise Tia-chan, I promise to write to you at least once a month. I'll include your letter to the ones I send Karin and Yuzu.'

When she begins to break away from him, he stops her as he wipes her tears away. 'Can't let Mila Rose or Apacci see those, they'll try and kick my butt if they thought it was my fault.'

Giggling hoarsely as she murmured into his neck. 'I'm going to miss you so much…'

'…Not as much as I'm going to miss you. You are my bestest friend in the whole world…' Ichigo can feel his own tears forming; his prayers answered when his father finds them.

'Ichigo, Tia-chan it's time…I'm sorry Tia-chan but he has to train hard for a few years before he enters the Shinōreijutsuin. He has a chance to make a name for himself as only the third Shinigami ever to wield dual Zanpakutō.'

The two friends slowly separate from each other reluctantly, her hand holding onto his until the very last moment. Stepping backwards, he waves to her before turning to follow after his father. He doesn't get far when he hears something that almost causes his mind to shut down, Tia whispers four words that both healed a portion of his heart and sealed his fate to hers forever. 'I love you Ichigo.'

Stepping off a shingled rooftop, Ichigo leads his two friends to their Squad's parade grounds just in time as both the Fourth Seats are beginning to line up the on-duty Shinigami for roll call. Kotetsu Kiyone and Kotsubaki Sentarō both roll their eyes as Ichigo and Tatsuki land behind them, while Chad takes his position as Sixth Seat in the first row. Kiyone huffs out as she hands Ichigo the duty roster allowing herself and Sentarō to take their places in the first row as well. Coughing, Ichigo begins roll call and in less than ten minutes is satisfied that nearly every non-stationed Shinigami is present, minus the two currently at Squad Four for injuries sustained during training.

"All right everyone settle down, I know most of you have heard something special is going to happen later today with the big announcement from the Sōtaichō. No, I don't know what it is going on either, so let's not get crazy with the B.S. With that said, today will be a free day and I expect everyone to be on the parade grounds in front of Squad One at least by ten of twelve. Dismissed!" Ichigo watches the Squad disperse before leading the officers towards the conference room where he can feel their Captain's Reiatsu.

Sliding open the shoji, Ichigo is the first to greet their cheerful white-haired Captain as he sits at the conference table with various reports in front of him. "Morning Ukitake Taichō."

"Ohayō Ichigo-kun. I take it you made it on time today?" Ukitake Jūshirō smiles when he sees his two excitable Fourth Seats grinning in anticipation.

"Of course, Taichō, last second as always…" He smirks when he hears Kiyone and Sentarō both stumble at the blunt statement.

Kiyone snickers as she lifts Sentarō to his feet. "Yeah, you're a shining example for our younger members Fuku-Taichō …"

Scoffing, Ichigo takes his place to the right of his Captain, while Tatsuki takes her place to the left of Ukitake. They wait as the civilian staff brings in fresh tea and edible snacks before withdrawing and closing the shoji to give the officers privacy. After pouring tea for his Captain first, Ichigo fills his own cup then hands the teapot to Tatsuki, sipping his tea, Ichigo glances at the paperwork in front of his white-haired mentor. His Captain catches his look and closes the folder before Ichigo can discern any information.

"Now that we are here, first I'd like to thank each of you on the exceptional handling of the bandits in the Western Forty-Seventh district. Squad Two also would like to extend their appreciation at the quality of prisoners you sent them for interrogation and they are most pleased to inform me that because of your efforts, they have finally broken the criminal trade by former members of the Misoka Clan."

Many of the officers' clap except for Ichigo and Tatsuki, both remember the few times that they had to sit in during those interrogations; not that the torture used to extract the information bothered either of them, but what had been gleaned from their prisoners had left a sour taste in both the Lieutenant's and Third Seat's mouths. Ichigo's Aunt Shaolin Fon flew into a rage when she learned of whom some the clients had been, but due to their stations and the power they held, assassinations had been issued for those named to keep the truth that nobles were involved from the general public.

Both the orange-haired Lieutenant and the black-haired Third Seat being members of the Shihōin-Shiba Onmitsukidō were among the few entrusted to carry out those orders; Ichigo was still miffed that noble offenders were even given a choice of Seppuku while those not of noble blood were outright executed, but his Aunt held him under a tight rein. Those few nobles who refused and tried to flex their political might didn't last long when Ichigo simply removed their heads before disappearing into the shadows. Tatsuki had taken to slow strangulation of her targets when they refused.

Once the clapping dies down, Ukitake informs them of the next bit of news.

"As many of you are aware of, the Sōtaichō will be making an important announcement; while I'm aware of what will be said, I have been ordered to say nothing until after the Sōtaichō concludes delivering his message at noon. What I can say however is that our Squad has been picked for a special assignment and we will be given our official orders then. Ichigo-kun, Tatsuki-chan I will have to ask both of you to change into your dress Shihakushō for this event, our honor as a Squad will be put forward today." Ichigo doesn't miss the slight merriment in his Captain's eyes when he meets Ichigo's gaze.

"Captain?" Ichigo suddenly feels nervous.

After standing to his feet, Ukitake Taichō smiles down at him. "There is nothing to worry about Ichigo-kun. By the way, when did you last speak to Shiba-dono?"

Groaning at the honorific for his father, he crosses his arms in annoyance. "You know Goat-Chin would have a conniption if he heard you speaking of him like that Taichō. You are his Elder Taichō and he has never approved of you calling him that, you or Kyōraku Taichō or Unohana Taichō included…"

"Ichigo-kun, while I don't call you dono as is your right being a higher noble than myself, I must speak of your Otou-san as such when in public, you know proprieties must always be observed. So if you don't mind, when was the last time you spoke to Isshin-dono?" Ukitake rolls his eyes when he sees his Lieutenant scowling even harder.

"Damn fruit-loop sent me a letter last month informing me that within a year I would be meeting my betrothed. Asshole still won't…Dammit! What's that for Suki!?"

"You best remember your place and Shiba-dono's place jackass…" Suki says as she rubs her hand to regain feeling after hitting what she claims always felt like a stone wall.

"Fine…anyways he and the twins are okay, I think he 'threatened' to come this weekend for a visit. From his letter, it's because Kūkaku made it clear if she didn't see Karin and Yuzu soon, she was going to send Yoruichi Obā-san to bring them here to Seireitei herself." Ichigo grins when he sees Tatsuki pale at the mention of his cousin's and grandmother's names, both had shanghaied her for several 'girls' weekends once she became an officer.

Looking up at his Captain, Ichigo finds even more amusement when he sees the memories of Kūkaku and Yoruichi flashing through the green eyes of the older nobleman. Coughing politely into his hand, Ichigo does his best to keep the smile off his face.

"I see you understand my sentiments Sir?"

Nodding quickly, Ukitake responds. "Let's keep them out of this if possible Ichigo-kun. However I do expect you to bring your Onee-chan to my family's estate for dinner at least once when they are here. My Kaa-chan has mentioned missing them on more than one occasion."

"Will do Sir. Anything else or are we free until noon?" Ichigo hopes to give the lower ranking officers some time off as well before the big event.

"Of course, today I think almost every Squad will be on relaxed duty until then, no reason why we shouldn't either." Ukitake then accepts the combined bows from his younger officers of his staff and lets them all leave except for Ichigo, Tatsuki and Chad.

As soon as the shoji closes again, the three younger Shinigami show varying degrees of surprise as their Captain places a barrier around the room. Waiting a few moments, Ukitake turns his back on them and stares out towards the tallest walled-in buildings in Seireitei, the Sōkyoku, where Squad Zero, Squad One, and the Royal family reside behind the impenetrable first walls that form the inner-city. He motions the three younger Shinigami to stand next to him as he gazes across the numerous streets, courtyards, and alleyways between the various structures within the second walled-in sections that form the commonly known second city.

"Ichigo-kun…your Kazoku's lands have always bordered those of Hueco Mundo?" The white-haired Captain asks suddenly.

"Yes…" Ichigo shares a look with both retainers of the Shihōin-Shiba Clans, neither know what to make of his question either.

Frowning, Ukitake begins to speak again. "Your Kazoku has also had a long history with the Court of Hueco Mundo."

Now his interests and those of his Zanpakutō spirits are piqued. "Yes, again Sir. May I ask why you're suddenly interest in our relations with Coyote Oji-san and Nelliel Oba-san…"

"Shiba Fuku-Taichō …from this time forward please address them as Starrk-sama." Jūshirō gives Ichigo a meaningful sideways look.

"Of…. course Sir."

"As for my interest, I just wanted to know what you remember of them. I've only ever had fleeting interactions with Hollows; mostly during our wars with Hueco Mundo over the centuries, as such I have only met them in battle, never under peaceful terms. I was ill during the signing of the cease-fire that was delivered by envoy to Seireitei by their then Queen, Kurosaki Masaki. Rumors of the Hollow Queen's release form were…daunting to say the least. If I remember correctly, only the elite of Hueco Mundo truly knew what she looked like in her sealed form. Your Okaa-san's name was Masaki wasn't it Ichigo-kun? Named after the Queen who took her in."

"Yes, it was Sir. Kaa-chan didn't remember her Kazoku's name because she was very young when she was left an orphan after her family died defending Las Noches during one of the battles in their civil war."

Ichigo can feel Tatsuki shifting behind him; her family too had suffered the results of war. The Arisawa's were originally from the mid-fifties Northern Rukongai of Soul Society, forced to flee their lands when their village was deemed a strategic point between the two feuding Clans, after months of wandering and searching they finally settled near the Shihōin-Shiba main estate. Tatsuki's parents were both master weavers and when word of their works reached Isshin, he took Ichigo to look at new rugs for their homes. It was there he met the brash young black-haired Tatsuki for the first time, when she had mistaken a lone Ichigo for a thief when she caught him looking through the window of her family's shop. A bloody nose for him and a black eye for her was how the two became friends, Tatsuki's strength leading to her being inducted into the Clan for training to become a member of the Shihōin-Shiba Onmitsukidō when she was only ten.

Shifting his gaze to look at the last of his best friends, Yasutora Sado, Ichigo sees his eyes staring blankly across Seireitei in deep thought. Unlike the rest of them, Chad immigrated to Soul Society from Hueco Mundo when he was nine after his last living relative, his grandfather died from a long illness. Finding the village his mother had lived in as a child, Chad tried to find work any way he could. Starving and looking for a place to sleep, Chad was found by Yuzu and Karin when they went to get eggs for breakfast. After the fright the three shared, it was a five-year-old Yuzu who dragged Sado by his hand into main house so she could feed him. Masaki was giggling as she watched her husband try vainly to explain to his daughter that they couldn't keep him.

A foot stomp, hands on her hips and that strangely powerful pout she learned from their mother had their father caving in quicker than a snowman in summertime. Ichigo and Uryū had both taken to the quiet Chad quickly themselves, especially after he saved Orihime from being taken advantage of by some older boys from outside noble houses. He had fought all seven of the teenagers relentlessly until he was ready to succumb due to the beating inflicted on him, which was how Ichigo, Tia, Lilynette, Cyan Sung-Sun, Tatsuki, and Uryū found them when they didn't get home in time for dinner. No formal charges were ever filed by either party when Yoruichi and Yūshirō politely reminded the families of the young nobles that they had started a fight against a retainer of the Shihōin-Shiba Clan, a crime in the Clan's eye. That night Chad was formally inducted into the Clan as an adoptive member of the family, the same way Orihime and Tatsuki had been made adoptive members of the Shihōin-Shiba.

Their friendship only grew stronger during the passing years; even joining the same Squad after all three had breezed through the Shinōreijutsuin after enrolling at fourteen; Ichigo graduating in one year, his two friends following him to Squad Thirteen a year later. They were among the youngest Shinigami ever to graduate since Hitsugaya Tōshirō and Ichimaru Gin, each now currently Captains in the Gotei Thirteen. Ichigo had arrived at Squad Thirteen as a seated officer and within two years accepted the offer of Lieutenant, the same position his late cousin Shiba Kaien once held. It always bothered the Shihōin-Shiba Clans as to how such a powerful Hollow was able to penetrate the borders of Soul Society without anyone being alerted to its presence until it had killed numerous members of Squad Thirteen, including both his cousin and Kaien's wife Miyako.

The Hollow was finally cornered and eliminated by teams of Shinigami lead by both Ukitake Taichō and Aizen Taichō as it tried to escape near the southernmost border with Hueco Mundo. The worst part of the purification was learning that the beast had been an older Hollow of legend; one that still followed the old ways of devouring souls of its victims, a practice outlawed by the last King of Hueco Mundo and strictly enforced by the late Queen after her ascension to the throne. Ichigo has heard numerous times how he and his late cousin looked almost exactly alike; the differences being his bright orange hair and brown eyes. It was partially the cause of his one-way relationship with the Kuchiki princess, it was rumored that she had tried to seduce Kaien during her tour with the Thirteenth.

Looking towards his Captain, Ichigo sees him looking back at him. "Captain?"

Folding his hands into the sleeves of his haori, Ukitake Jūshirō begins to speak again. "I can only tell you this Ichigo-kun, when you are given your orders today, remember your rank and remember your honor. That is as much as I will say at this time, as I must attend a Taichō meeting within the hour. You are free as well until we assemble before Squad One. Dismissed."

Ichigo bows, as do Tatsuki and Chad before leaving their Captain behind. Making a beeline for his office, Ichigo hurries the other two in and closes the door behind him. Standing there with his back to them, he voices his thoughts out loud.

"Why do I have a bad feeling about this? Mentions of my Kazoku, the Starrk's and…my Haha-ue…"

Tatsuki begins to pace her friend's office, offering her own opinions then. "Do you think we are going to war with Hueco Mundo Ichigo? A test of our loyalties? Us or them? I admit I have no desire to fight Hueco Mundo because of who rules now, I remember the Starrk's from our childhood just as well as you and Chad do Ichigo. I just wish we could talk to Suì-Fēng Taichō and see if she'd be willing to tell us something."

Turning around to face his best friends, Ichigo looks at the Sixth Seat. "Chad, any thoughts?"

The larger Shinigami shakes his head briefly. "I do not understand why Taichō would ask about Coyote Oji-san or Nelliel Oba-san. Nor do I understand why he would ask about the Clan's dealings with them. They have made great efforts to keep the peace and keep the rogue Hollows on their side of the borders. My only guess is that something may have changed in Las Noches Ichigo."

Ichigo feels both of his spirits' moods shift menacingly. He never understood the reasons why they felt so protective of the Starrk's but he knew he was just as protective of the current Hollow King and Queen, their daughter Lilynette, and even more so of their youngest daughter, his best friend. All three Shinigami would feel torn between fighting for them or against them; Ichigo was more than willing to pick a side he felt most at home with. Finding a seat, he sends for tea for him and his friends, none of them have any interest in doing anything until they have to leave for the announcement.

'Maybe I should find Yūshirō Ōoji and see if he knows anything…even if I havta beat it out of him.'

XXXX

Six members of the Shihōin-Shiba Clan sit around the low table with raised saucers waiting for the man with the two-day old stubble to make his toast, which he does with a smile as he speaks jovially.

"To the beginning!"

The five others sitting with him toast as well. "To the beginning!"

XXXX

Tia stands in shock after hearing the news her parents had just delivered to her. Looking at the grinning faces of her fellow Espada, she sees none of them are being deceptive, even Ulquiorra shows signs of a smirk forming when observing her face for her reactions.

"You…you aren't joking are you Dad? Please don't be joking!?" She sees both her mother and father smiling.

"Your father and I speak the truth Tia, he will be…" Tia's mind begins racing excitedly as the news sinks in.

XXXX

"It's time Ichigo." Tatsuki says as she stands and straightens the dress uniform she donned no less than fifteen minutes prior.

Standing up as well, Ichigo and Chad walk out of his office behind her to the courtyard; there they are met by the entire Squad. Glancing at his two friends, Ichigo looks over the ensemble of Shinigami with an approving look in his eyes.

"Well, we'd best get there on time for once." Ichigo's smile widens when laughter greets his words.

As a whole, the Squad heads towards the courtyard that stands before the walls of Sōkyoku. Making good time, the Squad finds their place at the far-left side of the nearly full courtyard. He shivers unconsciously when he catches the Lieutenant of Squad Twelve looking him over as he orders Squad Thirteen into formation, but is relived when he doesn't see the insane clown-faced Captain that inherited his grandfather's Squad upon Kisuke's sudden retirement. Watching as the seated officers line up the Squad into long rows, he turns when a familiar voice breaks his concentration.

"Yo Strawberry!"

Faking a punch to the other Lieutenant's stomach, Ichigo greets his fellow Shinigami with his usual retort. "Those tattoos still make your face look repugnant, Pineapple."

Shaking hands with Abarai Renji, Ichigo sees the questions in his eyes as well. "Not a clue Renji, honest. No one in my Clan has spoken to me about anything. What about Kuchiki Taichō, I figure he might have slipped a snippet or two by now in front of you."

"Ditto, not a word, but then again he is next in line for the throne, so you know what that means. By the way, Rukia wanted…"

"Listen Renji, I don't have feelings for her. I really don't. Besides there are things I haven't told her yet because until I am certain, I didn't want to say anything in front of her 'Bitchiness'." Ichigo says to assure his friend.

Ichigo and a fair number of their fellow Lieutenants were aware of Abarai's crush for Rukia, but since their childhood when the Princess left to receive a private education, she hadn't once made an effort to speak or see the red-haired Shinigami, not even when she became a permanent member of Squad Six. While Renji normally handles all the non-seated members of the Squad, Rukia is the sole exception. She always took her orders directly from her father in private. The few times Renji actually got to speak to her, Rukia would turn her nose up at him and generally spoke to him with the Kuchiki's infamous tone of indifference.

"Well she wants you to come see her today after the announcement. Something about making arrangements or…" Renji sees Ichigo's eyes narrow angrily.

"Not happening… when is she going to get it through that thick skull of hers!? I've told her repeatedly I have no interest in her." The Squad Thirteen Lieutenant bites out lowly so no one but Renji can hear him.

Renji's hand grips his shoulder and Ichigo sees a puzzled look on his fellow Lieutenant's face. "Ichigo, what's so wrong about courting the prospective heir to the throne?"

Ichigo's brown eyes stare back into Renji's brown orbs as he speaks. "She… isn't the one I am meant for Renji."

A sudden flash of surprise shows on the face of Ichigo's friend. Looking at the dais that will soon hold most of the strongest and politically powerful beings in Soul Society, the Squad Six Lieutenant speaks in a low voice.

"Best tell her soon Ichigo… I hear she is trying to push her Otou-san and Okaa-san into seeking an Omiai with your Clan."

Ichigo steps backwards upon hearing the news. "She wouldn't!?"

"She is Ichigo. Face it; you are only the third Shinigami ever to wield dual Zanpakutō. You are on the fast track to becoming a Taichō as soon as one of the current Taichō retires or falls in battle. Lastly, despite your Clans' checkered pasts, your rapid rise to Fuku-Taichō has helped bring them back into prominence once more. I hear that they might have had a hand in whatever is going to be said today…so you better start thinking about your future Ichigo, and I mean your immediate future." Hearing commotion from the slowly opening large gates behind the stand, Renji gives him an encouraging nod before Shunpōing back to his Squad.

Taking his Captain's place for the soon-to-be announced news, Ichigo glares at the stones under his feet.

'Fuck! Why is she pushing so fucking hard!?' He has to consciously reign his Reiatsu in so as not to affect his Squad or the Squad next to his.

Before he can reflect upon the news his friend gave him, the Captains begin to ascend the stairs, each parting to either side of the stage as if they were in an actual meeting. The even numbered Squad Captains walking to the right, the odd numbered Squad Captains to the left. Making his way to the front between the two lines of Captains, Ichigo and every other Shinigami feel the age and power emanating from the highest-ranking being other than the Royal Family. Behind them, Ichigo almost face faults when he sees not only his grandparents standing with a member of Squad Zero, Hyōsube Ichibē, but the face of his father grinning stupidly at him. Ichigo narrows his eyes as he stares at his family standing with his Kidō Sensei and mentor, however all thoughts stop when the aged Shinigami bangs his concealed Zanpakutō three times.

"Today I am here to put an end to the rampant speculations and wild gossip that has been spreading throughout the Gotei Thirteen and Seireitei. Three days from now, we will be hosting the King and Queen of Hueco Mundo as well as their elite, the Espada for the signing of a formal treaty. Squads Two and Thirteen will be in charge of their safety during their visit to our Capital. As such, I am here to ensure each Shinigami now standing before me understands that each of you will show them the greatest courtesy and honor for their positions. I have waited many long centuries to announce this news. The purpose of their visit is to sign a lasting peace treaty between Hueco Mundo and Soul Society…"

A large roar of cheers erupts from the thousands of Shinigami and civilian officials standing before the Captains, Sōtaichō, members of the Royal family and the delegates of Central Forty-Six. Letting them have their way for a few minutes, Yamamoto Sōtaichō once again bangs his Zanpakutō until silence is once again achieved.

"By the end of this week, we will achieve something many Shinigami and Hollow have died to make possible, I will not allow anyone to stand in our way of reaching this lasting conclusion of our struggles."

Looking over the jubilant crowd, the Sōtaichō begins to speak once again. "Third Seat Arisawa Tatsuki and Shiba Ichigo Fuku-Taichō of Squad Thirteen, present yourselves."

Both named officers Shunpō forward and kneel before their commanding officer, heads bowed to a respectful degree.

"Stand Shiba-dono, Arisawa-san." Once they do so, the white-bearded commander speaks again.

"As requested by Hueco Mundo, Arisawa Tatsuki, you have been given the honor of commanding Lilynette Starrk's protection detail as well as act as her guide during her stay in Seireitei."

"Hai Sōtaichō!" Tatsuki responds diligently.

Ichigo's heart begins to beat very fast as an impossible dream seems to be coming true.

"Shiba Fuku-Taichō you will be in charge of their youngest Musume's protection as well as act as her guide per personal request of their King and Queen. I understand you have a prior relationship with Tier Starrk, is this true?"

Barely keeping his nervous excitement out of his voice, Ichigo answers truthfully. "We are childhood friends Sōtaichō. She and I were very close when we were younger and she would stay with my Clan whenever her Kazoku visited Soul Society. I admit I haven't seen or spoken to Ti…Tier Hime in over six years."

"I see… as such though, you will mind her station in life and treat her as you would the Kuchiki Clan. Do you understand Fuku-Taichō?"

"Hai!" Ichigo lowers his head to hide his smile, all but one missing it.

Violet eyes narrow in deep-seeded anger at seeing the happiness etched on his lips. Watching him smile was the last straw for the Kuchiki princess; since meeting him, she has tried desperately to win his heart, but seeing how he responded to being made a tour guide has her blood boiling that a Hollow could illicit such a reaction from the Shinigami she desires.

"Return to your Squad." After Ichigo and Tatsuki take their leave, the Sōtaichō turns to the future Reiō of Soul Society.

"Is there anything else you wish to add Kuchiki-dono?"

"There is." Kuchiki Byakuya strides to stand before the Shinigami of Soul Society.

"I will make myself very clear right this moment. Any Shinigami who disgraces our nation will face severe punishment, up to and including a public flogging and exile. We have worked very hard these past few years and we will not be the ones to blame should this peace treaty fail to be signed. Remember, this is not only for us but for future generations to live for. Everlasting peace." Byakuya simply walks back to his place in line with his fellow Taichō when he finishes.

Banging his Zanpakutō once more, the Sōtaichō gives his last order. "Return to your barracks and await your assignments from your Taichō. Dismissed!"

In groups as small as three to as large as a dozen, the voices of excited Shinigami and others are ignored by Ichigo, Chad and Tatsuki as they wait for their two friends to join them before they head to the restaurant where they have lunch reservations with the head of the Shihōin-Shiba Clan. Spying his father and grandparents leaving with the other Taichō, Ichigo sees Yoruichi signing to him in the Onmitsukidō hand language.

'We'll talk tonight at the estate.'

'Okay Obā-san… I hope you guys had a good reason for keeping this from me.' His fingers deftly reply.

He feels a vein popping after his grandmother smirks and sends him a wink. 'Of course, we did… surprise Ichi-kun.'

Glaring when he sees his grandmother begin to laugh with his father and grandfather as they leave the stage; Ichigo huffs to himself before he starts waving to Orihime and Uryū as they thread their way through the thinning crowd. Stopping before him, he sees the excitement in the burnt-orange-haired healer's eyes.

"I can't believe it Ichigo! She's really coming here! They're all coming here!" She grabs his hands while dancing from foot to foot.

Uryū pushes his glasses up before speaking next. "So, do you have any idea of what you are going to say to her?"

His friends see him gulp nervously before he simply turns on his heels and motions for them to follow; Orihime slips an arm through his and her husband's arm as they begin to walk. "I have an idea or two, but that's between me and Tia."

XXXX

Yoruichi, Kisuke, and Isshin leave the Taichō meeting when it becomes clear that they are no longer needed to answer any more questions. The former Captains walk down the hallways of Sōkyoku towards the main entrance of the grand palace. Once they are safely away from the fortress and past the Seki-Seki walls, they begin to break out in conspiratorial grins.

"Did you see Ichi-kun's face when he found out his assignment?" Kisuke questions while laughing behind his trademark paper fan.

Isshin can't help his own laughter then. "It was priceless Kisuke; I'll bet he's worrying about how much trouble he's going to be in once she's alone with him. It's been years since they last spoke to each other, and I'm pretty sure she remembers the promise he didn't keep. Hopefully he takes his beating without complaint."

The golden-eyed grandmother chuckles her agreement. "She always knew how to handle that boy of yours Isshin; I really won't be surprised if they fall right back into their comfort zone with each other once they spend enough time alone, which reminds me that I need to talk to Shaolin into making sure that happens as much as possible. So, when are we going to tell them, I hope it's soon? I mean it's only right he should learn who his intended is going to be."

"I'm gonna wait for Coyote and Nelliel to give me the okay Okaa-san…it also means we might have to divulge who he and his Imouto really are." Isshin sighs in resigned acceptance.

"Sooner or later he is going to have to learn the truth. If not, he will be very unhappy with all of us if he learns of it from the wrong sources." Kisuke points out to his wife and step-son.

"I know…Masaki always worried about Ichigo and the twins learning the truth as to who they really are too soon. It's was those same worries that eventually caught up to her that day and someone stole her from us. I still haven't forgiven myself for letting her go to the market alone with only Ichigo that morning; I should've listened to my gut and had her followed by Onmitsukidō. Maybe she would still be alive today if I had...and we would have only known a happy Ichigo, not the one who drives himself relentlessly to gain the power he has in him to protect his Imouto, to keep them from losing someone else they love." Isshin breathes in deeply to alleviate his own feelings of sorrow.

"Whoever it was, was able to get close to her without raising any suspicion with Masaki-chan. And we all know it wasn't a Hollow." Yoruichi speaks quietly to her husband and second oldest child.

Kisuke then answers the obvious. "Shinigami, no Quincy would dare trespass on our lands, so it leaves Shinigami assassins. Shaolin-chan has already confirmed that the orders weren't from Central Forty-Six or from any of the main Noble Houses. So that leaves us with a mysterious rogue or rogues operating deep within the Gotei."

Kisuke and Yoruichi grimace together; a rogue Shinigami or a group of them could potentially bring Soul Society to its knees if they are in strong positions of power. Their second biggest fear is that if these rogues are were working with the false King of Southern Hueco Mundo, Baraggan Louisenbairn, the Gotei will have few candidates available to replace them if they openly defect, and only one who can succeed in such a short time. Neither grandparent nor father wants to place that burden on Ichigo's shoulders if at all possible; both want this peace so they can slowly groom him to eventually take his rightful place when the time comes for him. Walking towards the restaurant they know Ichigo and his friends are having lunch at, the trio who are on their way to surprise the younger members are stopped when a messenger of the Kuchiki Clan Shunpōs in front of them.

The kneeling member of the Inner Court Troops holds a letter out for Isshin to accept, which he does hesitatingly. Breaking the seal and quickly reading the letter, he gasps when he reads what it says. Handing the letter to his mother, Isshin glares down at the messenger and tightly controlling his voice, he speaks.

"Tell his Highness we will speak with him at the Shihōin-Shiba compound within the hour." Next to him, Isshin hears his mother hissing as she too reads the part that has him so angered.

Waiting until the messenger bows and leaves, Kisuke mutters out their shared feelings. "So little Hime makes her move…"

"…Pity that we have to decline before we even speak to them." Yoruichi growls out as they speed off to the main estate.

XXXX

Tossing a grape into the air, the orange-haired Shinigami watches it expectantly for it to fall back towards his mouth to catch. Grinning, he opens up only to see it disappear when Tatsuki's fingers intercept it and pops it into her mouth instead.

"Getting too slow Ichigo." The Third Seat smirks out.

Tossing another, he fends off her hands to catch the next one easily.

"Well it's been a long time since I saw you in such a good mood Ichigo." Uryū says as he cuts into his chicken.

Orihime nods her agreement as she steals the cut piece from her husband's dish. "I agree Otto, the last time was…"

Ichigo smiles as he watches Orihime tap her chin in thought. They were right; even he can't remember the last time he has truly smiled like this. Even Zangetsu, both sides of his Zanpakutō are pleased with the current events that are now occupying their wielder's mind, the weather is perfect. Chad is leaning back in his chair as he too has a small smile showing on his face. The fact that a missing piece of their lives is soon going to be among them once again has each of the five friends sitting anxiously and waiting for the arrival of the Shihōin-Shiba Clan's current head, Shihōin Yūshirō, Ichigo's great-uncle.

Glancing up at the clock on the wall, Ichigo frowns at the time. If his great uncle doesn't show soon, he, Tatsuki and Chad would have to leave for their Squad. Uryū has the afternoon off because his father is taking over the afternoon hours. Orihime is free for the whole day, as her next shift at the hospital isn't scheduled to start until seven A.M. the next morning. Picking up some of his curry, Ichigo stiffens when he sees a set of golden eyes staring at him from his peripheral vision.

"I swear to Kami, why do you and Sobo always do that shit!?" Ichigo snaps at his great-uncle, alerting the other occupants of the room to the man's presence.

Shihōin Yūshirō chuckles as he finds his seat between his great-nephew and Tatsuki; piling his plate high with food, the current head of the Shihōin-Shiba Clan starts eating with gusto. When he is halfway finished with his plate, he sets his chopsticks down and rubs his steel abs contently. Seeing the looks of wonder on Orihime's face the black-haired Clan head winks at her.

"Not as good as yours Hime-chan, but it will have to do for our meeting. Now before we begin, I should explain why I'm so late. And don't worry, I already sent word to Jūshirō that I would be keeping you three until I'm done. Now, the reason why I'm late is that we had a surprise request that the Clan had to deal with immediately."

Slipping his hand into his haori, Yūshirō pulls out a scroll and hands it to Ichigo who opens it and begins to read it. The room suddenly grows heavy with his angry Reiatsu as the orange-haired Shinigami slips with his legendary control. Immediately covering the four others in the room with his own Reiatsu, Yūshirō gently prods his great-nephew.

"Ichigo… you need to control yourself." Brown eyes snap up and the suffocating feeling disappears as Ichigo reels his Reiatsu back under control.

"That…. bitch! I've told her time and again I had no interest in an Omiai with her! What the fuck is this shit!? An end around or some crap!? Please tell me that you, Sofu and Soba didn't agree to this!?" Ichigo's pleading eyes stare into the eyes of his senior clansman.

Grabbing the younger Shiba's shoulder, Yūshirō shakes his head disbelievingly at Ichigo before slapping him in the back of his orange head seconds later. "Are you being purposely dense or something Ichigo? You were promised to someone long ago, the only person in the entire world that you were meant for, just as she is meant for you. Now stop being stupid and think; your Okaa-san arranged your Omiai with her blessings, no one and I mean no one can fault her logic as to who she chose for you Ichigo. Maybe it's better we tell you who it is you are arranged to before something like this happens again. As of tonight, all of you will begin staying at the Shihōin-Shiba manor until our guests leave… no excuses. Besides, I know of two young Imouto desperately in need to see their Ani…"

"They're here!? What the hell Yūshirō! Why didn't you say something earlier dammit! I haven't seen Yuzu or Karin since their last visit here." Ichigo tries getting to feet to leave until his great-uncle stops him by pulling back into his seat.

"Ichigo they'll still be there tonight and for the following week, stop worrying so much. In case you forgot, you still have your duties to attend to yet, so you best get back to Jūshirō before those two Fourth Seats kill him with their… behavior."

"Oh crap!" Tatsuki and Chad both jump up and run out of the private dining room.

Ichigo is about to follow when the Head of the Shihōin stops him. "Six years Ichigo, you have a lot to answer for…"

"…I know, I know."

Slipping out of the room behind Tatsuki and Chad, Ichigo leaves via Shunpō to catch up to them. Smiling as he digs in to the rest of his lunch, Yūshirō pauses when he remembers he forgot to tell Ichigo and the others what happened at the Taichō meeting. Shrugging his shoulders, Yūshirō points at Orihime and asks.

"So Hime, tell an old man what ya thinking you and Zu might make for dinner tonight?"

XXXX

Kuchiki Byakuya walks through the halls of his squad, barely aware of the bows being directed towards him. His face showing only the icy coolness he is easily recognized for as he makes his way to his office, inside though he is raging at the audacity of the Shihōin-Shiba Clan, especially his former Sensei and her second oldest son. Sliding open the shoji to his outer office, he gives a cursory nod to his Lieutenant as he slides open the last set of shōji leading to his private inner office. Once inside, he places Senbonzakura on its stand behind his seat, and slips his haori off to hang it behind him as well. Tucking his feet under his knees, he leans forward and cups his mouth with his closed hands, thinking back to the meeting he had left not more than thirty minutes ago.

XXXX Flashback Start XXXX

The moment he and his wife, Hisana, walked into the room, they were met not only by Shiba Isshin, but by Isshin's mother Shihōin Yoruichi, Isshin's step-father Urahara Shihōin Kisuke, and Isshin's uncle Shihōin Yūshirō as well. Keeping the surprise off of his face, the future Soul King of Seireitei settled his wife on a cushion directly across from the grandmother of the young Shinigami in question. Since the boy's own mother was murdered years earlier by unknown assailants, Yoruichi being the closest female member to Isshin would speak on Ichigo's behalf. Once tea was served and the servants left the room, the elder Kuchiki began to speak.

"I assumed that this would have been an informal inquiry Shiba-san." Byakuya says to Ichigo's father.

Shaking his head ruefully, the man points to his purple-haired mother. "Your messenger delivered it while I was with them, so you can guess what happened then."

Inwardly scowling at his messenger's lack of tact, the Kuchiki does not allow any of his displeasure to show on his features. "I see. Well I will make this simple. My Musume has expressed her unwavering desire to marry Ichigo, your Musuko-san. I will admit after careful thought I am in favor of such a union between our Kodomo…"

"Sorry to interrupt Bya-bou, but haven't you told Ichi-kun on more than one occasion that he is a lesser noble…" Yoruichi remarks before she takes a sip of her tea.

Glaring at the mention of his old nickname she had given him when he was still her student, Byakuya continues nonetheless. "That may be true Yoruichi-san, but over time it has become obvious that he is destined for greatness and has a bright career as a future Taichō. I am willing to overlook the fact that he is a member of the Shiba side of the Shihōin-Shiba Clan due to your place as the second Kodomo of the Shihōin side of the Clan, we also understand that only Yūshirō-dono's Kodomo will be allowed rights to the Shihōin name as he is the eldest Musuko. Therefore, I and Hisana wish to proceed with Omiai negotiations between our Kazoku to unite our Clans."

For several moments, Byakuya and Yoruichi stare at each other in silence before the current head of the Shihōin Clan speaks. "Unfortunately, Kuchiki-dono that will not be possible…"

"…And why not?" Hisana politely asked Yūshirō, who obliged her.

"Forgive me Kuchiki-dono, but when Ichigo was only six months old, we signed an Omiai with the Ryōshin of his future bride. It was a match approved by not only my Clan, but by Masaki herself before her death."

"Six months old!? That is very young for an Omiai Yūshirō-san." Hisana says as she leans forward. "Why so soon?"

The Kuchiki can't miss the looks in the eyes of the four that sat across from them. It is Kisuke who speaks next.

"When we tell the two who are arranged when Ichigo first reaches the age of nineteen, you will see that neither of them would have wanted anyone else…it has always been a love match between the two."

Byakuya scoffs then. "You expect me to believe that Shiba Fuku-Taichō will instantly fall in love with this woman?"

Isshin's hand slams the table in anger at the dismissive tone he heard from the Prince. "Forgive me Kuchiki-sama, but these are the facts. Ichigo will marry her because that was one of his Okaa-san's wishes and he would never go against Masaki. He will be more than overjoyed by who we have arranged him to marry. And lastly… lastly, I know my Musuko… if he is to marry it will be for nothing less than love. Something he clearly doesn't harbor for Rukia-sama. I'm sorry, but she is the wrong match for Ichigo, something I believe he would tell you himself if you ask him, he harbors no romantic inclinations towards your Musume."

Hisana sees that the meeting is clearly over and her hand covers her husband's before he could do anything rash. "Would you mind telling us who Ichigo is arranged to, Yoruichi-dono?"

"I'm sorry Hisana-sama, but it is a private matter for our Clan. Because of this meeting we will have to tell Ichigo sooner rather than later. Word will somehow leak that you came here to discuss Omiai and when others learn that you failed in your attempt, they will wonder why. For all concerned, maybe you should act as if this was nothing more than discussions on the upcoming visit of the Hueco Mundo Royal family and that you have arranged for Lilynette and Tia to stay with us instead of staying at Sōkyoku seeing as we have close ties with Coyote-sama and Nelliel-sama." Yoruichi remarks while trying to calm her son.

"There is nothing we can offer to change your minds then?" Hisana hoped she could make her daughter happy, but the prospect of it being with the orange-haired Lieutenant looks rather bleak.

"He will be happy with his Okaa-san's choice… we all know this in our hearts." Isshin says with finality.

XXXX Flashback End XXXX

That was how the meeting ended with Hisana and himself walking back to Sōkyoku empty handed. Once he was sure his wife was safely back in their portion of the fortress, Byakuya Shunpōed his way back to his Squad in deep thought, wondering who the Shihōin would so adamantly defend as the right choice for the Squad Thirteen Lieutenant. He knows that once Rukia learns that the Shihōin weren't going to budge, he would be forced to start looking among the other Clans for a suitable partner for his daughter. One name that stood out from the rest was one he wasn't sure if he was ready to consider yet.

'Only time will tell…'

XXXX

Rukia stands before her mother in a rage, her violet eyes frosting over in her anger when her ears learn of the news. That the Shihōin-Shiba Clan would deny her was unconscionable to her, she would one day rule Soul Society and yet they dismissed her request to marry Ichigo out of hand. Then she remembers the smile on Ichigo's face when he was told his assignment, how happy he looked when he was informed that he would be escorting that lowly creature, that fake noble from Hueco Mundo. Hollows were nothing but animals in her eyes as well as many of the other Noble Clans. Why is all she wants to know? Why wasn't she good enough for Ichigo? Why would they listen to the wishes of a dead woman? She makes the mistake of voicing that last question out loud, and a loud slap echoes through the room.

Holding her hand to her slapped cheek, Rukia looks at her angry mother through tears. "Haha-ue?"

"That 'dead woman' as you so callously called her, is still held in the highest reverence by the Shihōin-Shiba Clan. How dare you dismiss Masaki-san so coldly? Ichigo loved his Okaa-san more than life itself; even I know this after meeting Masaki-san just once during her only visit to Seireitei when Ichigo was four years old. He followed his Okaa-san around everywhere, wherever she was, he was right beside her. I heard that the day she died, she died protecting him with her own body Rukia. Do you know what kind of damage that must have done to him, to see his own Okaa-san's dead body covering his? I will never hear of you speaking of her that way again, do you understand me Musume?"

"Hai…" Rukia face reforms the ice-cold mask that all Kuchiki are famous for.

"Rukia… it is no secret that Ichigo has never loved you nor did he ever show any kind of infatuation for you. I understand he is well sought after, but his Clan has already secured his future bride. You will respect their decision and leave it alone. Whoever she is, the Shihōin-Shiba Clans are more than certain of her acceptability, in fact they are excited that the wait to tell them is nearing an end. He is out of your reach; it seems he was out of every eligible noblewoman's reach since his birth." Hisana gently grabs her daughter's hands as she speaks.

"Rukia dear, there are other eligible nobles for you to consider, or perhaps someone who isn't a noble? It has happened before, a noble marrying a commoner…"

Rukia face scrunches at the thought. "A… a commoner… disgusting…"

Quirking an eyebrow, Hisana shakes her head sadly at her daughter. "What about your Otou-san's Fuku-Taichō? You were once close friends with him; I know you looked upon him fondly when you were children."

"Renji? He and I are no longer close Okaa-san; we don't speak to each other even though we are in the same Squad. Besides he… doesn't interest me that way. That hair and those tattoos, I would be horrified to show up on his arm. No Okaa-san, my wish is for someone just like Ichigo or Ichigo himself. No one else can compare to him…"

"Are you sure this has nothing to do with Kaien-san?"

"Those were baseless rumors, nothing more." The violet-eyed Shinigami says quickly.

Lifting a single eyebrow at how fast her daughter answered, Hisana presses her. "Are you sure? I seem to recall Shiba Fuku-Taichō demanded your transfer on several occasions. In the end it didn't matter, his and Miyako's deaths ended any further gossip and friction in the Squad ended once you left."

"As I said, they are baseless rumors. I would never pursue a married man. He was nothing more than my Sensei helping me achieve my Shikai release." Rukia turns away and grabs a glass of wine to drink.

"If that is true, then I will hear no more about you pursuing Shiba Fuku-Taichō from this point onwards, am I understood Rukia?" The daughter shivers at the commanding tone with the power of her mother's forgotten race reinforcing that order.

"I hear and obey Haha-ue." Rukia bows her head submissively.

XXXX

Ichigo sits before the fire with his fifteen-year-old sister Yuzu cuddled on his lap, she had insisted on sitting there like she has done since she was a small child. Of course, his light-haired sister was fast asleep after the joyous reunion and the family dinner that the brother and sisters shared after he walked through the doorway of his Clan's estate in Seireitei. After getting his hugs and kisses, the twins made sure to give the same greetings to the Ishidas, Chad, and Tatsuki, who also graciously accepted letters from her parents. Dinner was spectacular, a shared duty between Orihime and Yuzu taking over the kitchen for the first night of their visit.

Afterwards, he and the others listened to the stories the twins had to tell them, most included Isshin getting punished in one way or another for his numerous embarrassing antics. But the few that causes Ichigo the most unease are the stories of noble Clans and their branch families sending requests to discuss possible Omiai between his younger sisters and their sons; some potential suitors are as old as himself, a few who Ichigo know personally are even older. Thankfully his father had diplomatically declined all offers, telling the requestors that Yuzu and Karin would marry in due time to those they chose for themselves, if and when they felt they were ready for marriage. His protective nature kicked into high gear until Karin had slapped his hand and told him not to worry; neither twin was interested in anyone…yet.

After a few rounds of Sake and more storytelling, Yuzu had fallen asleep in his lap and Karin wasn't that far behind, dozing off and on against his shoulder. Giving a nod to Chad, he and his friend take the younger Shiba siblings upstairs to their room and let the servants change them for bed after handing them over and returning to wait outside in the hallway. Kissing them each on their foreheads once they are changed, he leaves their room and makes his way back downstairs where the Clan Elders have assembled. Ichigo and Chad know that Clan business is going to be discussed when both see Yūshirō wearing the Shihōin-Shiba Clan Head's haori.

Finding his place between his father and Tatsuki, Ichigo picks up his saucer and waits with the other members of the Shihōin-Shiba Clan.

"To Peace." The Head of the Clan intones.

Everyone follows his example. "To Peace."

Waving for refills, Yūshirō grins at Ichigo when he sees his great-nephew's growing impatience as to why he was left in the dark. "You didn't see it coming did you Ichi-kun?"

"No, you bastards! How the hell could you keep that from me!? I swear I hate all of you right now." He scowls hard as he scans the faces of his Elders.

Yoruichi falls backwards laughing then. "But your face was priceless Ichigo! I swear I'm gonna have a portrait painted to capture that moment forever!"

Facepalming at her mother's antics, Shaolin Fon mutters between her fingers. "Why was I born into this Clan?"

Ichigo snorts at his Aunt's unanswered question. "See Shaolin Oba-san, it's not just me, is it?"

Shaolin Fon, Ichigo's only aunt and the oldest of Yoruichi's three children with his deceased grandfather Akihiko, Kisuke having only been married to his grandmother Yoruichi for the last fifty years after a rumored long and oftentimes painful courtship. As the oldest child and only daughter, Shaolin was first to get married and that was to the youngest of the Fon sons, Fon Michio. But after just a year of marriage, Michio was killed along with his older brothers during a botched raid in the far reaches of the Rukongai, the lawless outer Western districts of Soul Society where few Shinigami dare to patrol due to centuries of neglect. Named as both the Fon Clan Head and the successor for her mother upon Yoruichi's early retirement, Shaolin Fon became Suì-Fēng Taichō of Squad Two and the head of all of the Onmitsukidō, including the independent units of the Shihōin-Shiba Clan. Her first task as Captain was the total annihilation of the criminals who killed her husband and in-laws, and the less-law abiding citizens in that area still shudder in fear when speaking her name.

Hearing her twin braids clinking together; Ichigo sees her eyes roll at his comment. "One day Ichigo, one day we will learn the truth."

Both raise their saucers and toast. "To the Truth!"

Both also receive head slaps from their respective parents.

"You two done?" Seeing his niece and great-nephew nodding, Yūshirō begins the meeting in earnest.

"The reason we didn't tell any of you what was going on is that we didn't want to get your hopes up. This treaty has been in near stalled negotiations for almost twenty years Ichigo, since before the Hollow Queen died and the Starrks became the regents of Hueco Mundo. They feel it is time for the true ruler of the Hollows to seek the throne and Coyote and Nelliel wanted to ensure a peaceful succession."

"Wait… regents?" Uryū suddenly stops the golden-eyed Shihōin Clan head.

"Yes… they are only the regents; the Starrks have been waiting for their true King or Queen to mature enough before handing the throne over to them. No one outside of this Clan knows this and it will remain so until the coronation of that King or Queen, do I make myself clear?" Yūshirō eyes Ichigo, Tatsuki, Chad, Orihime, and Uryū to accept their agreement.

"So, who is this King or Queen?" Ichigo asks.

"Even we don't know that one. Coyote and Nelliel have always been tight lipped about that one; even to us they won't spill." Yoruichi huffs out.

Isshin grimaces then. "All we do know is that they are the Queen's Kodomo and the true inheritors of her throne, Baraggan's claim is just that, a claim. He is a very distant offspring, a byproduct of a wild night the rumors say. How he even learned of his bloodline, no one knows, but after years of research, they found some proof of his words, just not enough for him to take the throne. His blood compared to the late Queen's Kodomo isn't enough for him to sit on the throne of Hueco Mundo."

"Well if he is a noble of the line, why can't he rule for now?" Orihime asks of the Elders.

Shared looks hold a silent conversation and when it was agreed to, Yūshirō speaks. "Simply put, Las Noches isn't just a Palace Orihime-chan, it is a living, breathing aspect of Hueco Mundo; like the thrones for Soul Society and Silbern, the throne of the Hollows grants the true ruler the power needed to rule the populace. It is also how the Hollow Kings and Queens have kept their people from devolving back to the ways of their ancestors. Take all the stories and legends you have learned over the years and multiply them a hundred-fold, and you only scratch the surface of the true horrors that existed during the earliest days of known history."

The five younger members swear quietly as a group. Most of the stories used to scare children today were based upon real facts of how the early Hollows of the world were truly the monsters of their time. It was after centuries of warfare with the Hollows that the Shinigami and the Quincy separated themselves from everyday humans over the generations; they were able to develop powers from the Reiryoku of their soul or the Reiatsu that permeates the world to help combat the soul-stealing Hollows that roamed the lands. From there, three distinctive cultures rose from those bloody millennia of war and bloodshed.

The Shinigami were the first to find and usher their Reiō to his place as their supreme ruler, followed by the Quincy, leaving the Hollows the last to find their King. As each race ascended to greater heights, their center of power took hold in their capitals as well. Power was infused into the thrones over time that would allow only those descendants of the purest blood of the three first rulers to sit upon them and rule over their race.

The Kuchiki Clan was one of six Clans who could claim the throne for themselves, which they did two thousand years ago. They barely beat the Shihōin as the Clan was known back then by only a few hours after a long civil war to seal their claim of the throne. Once they took control, they set about enforcing the peace; realizing how close they were to losing everything thanks to the civil war, the five other Clans readily surrendered to save Soul Society. From there, all six Clans formed the basis of the governing body, Central Forty-Six to rule over the lands in their names. Besides the Kuchiki and Shihōin Clans, there were the Yamamoto, Aizen, Kyōraku, and the Fujiwara.

However, the Shihōin became the largest Clan once Yoruichi married Shiba Akihiko and the two Clans officially merged to create a single new Clan. Akihiko took his wife's name but his three children were only able to take the Shiba name due to Yūshirō being the oldest of the Shihōin siblings. Yūshirō's children would inherit the main Clan's name once he married and had children, while Yoruichi's children already inherited the Shiba side of the newly combined Clan.

Of course, no one remembers the name of the first Hollow King or their descendants. The only proof that they were the true inheritors of the throne was the form of their Resurrección. The form that they inherited from the very first Vasto Lorde crowned as King, who also became the first Arrancar, was passed down from mother to son or father to daughter. All the Kings and Queens of Hueco Mundo were said to have two forward pointing horns on top of a menacing skull mask, their Hollow Holes surrounded by black tribal marks leading outwards, and their pale-white bodies had claws for hands and feet with tufts of fur of varying colors, the final distinguishing feature were their tails, powerful extremities that could just as easily kill as it could grapple objects or foes.

No one had any idea of how the Quincy proved their bloodlines, Ryūken has never spoken of it during his years of exile, nor has he told Uryū the details.

"So then... what is missing that this King or Queen needs to do to claim the throne?" Ichigo asks bluntly.

"Combat. He must prove himself in combat before he or she is even allowed to sit on the throne. If he is weak, it is possible that the throne will kill him before giving him the power. The throne of Las Noches is infamous for killing weaker claimants according to Nelliel and Coyote. It is said that those that fail are absorbed by the Palace to serve forever the ones that do prove worthy in the future. Pretty easy to see why no one goes rushing to sit on the thing." Isshin explains to his son and his four friends.

"No shit Shiba-san." Tatsuki remarks after her brief shudder. "Who the hell wants to become a living piece of rock?"

"So why the secrecy then? I mean won't the treaty hold if this new King or Queen takes over or not?" Uryū presses for an answer.

"It will; there's no doubt because the future heir of Hueco Mundo is said to be a great proponent of protecting the weak, something you rarely see in the higher echelons of the Hollows." Kisuke takes the opportunity to answer this time.

Snapping his fan open, the former assassin himself speaks further. "It may be a few more years before we learn who this young Hollow is, but I think we will all be pleasantly surprised by who it is I wager. If the Starrks and the Espada are willing to wait this long for their future King or Queen to mature, I see no reason why anyone should rush in and try to unveil who the future heir is before it is time."

"So, Tia can't be Queen? She isn't… you know… to this Hollow, is she?" Ichigo asks with downcast eyes.

"Ichigo, she has been promised to someone who… loved her. Perhaps is still in love with her. Someone with orange hair and brown eyes I believe…" Isshin says with a hint of satisfaction in his voice.

"Your Okaa-san chose well before we all saw the proof of her intuition." Yūshirō adds to the growing shock of the five younger members of the Clan, none more so than Ichigo.

Ichigo stares first at his father; seeing the confirmation in his eyes, he scans the rest of his family. First is Yoruichi's approving smile, next is Kisuke smirking without hiding it behind his fan, and finally the Head of his Clan pulling out an aged scroll that he hands to Tatsuki.

"If you don't mind Arisawa-san, could you read it out loud for everyone to hear? I doubt Ichigo could finish reading it without making a fool of himself."

Staring at his great-uncle in stunned fashion, Ichigo begins to listen as his friend opens the document in her hands.

Coughing to clear her throat, Tatsuki begins to speak as if she were addressing the Squad.

"On this day, January Fifteenth of the year One Thousand Nine Hundred and Ninety-nine of the reign of Kuchiki Reiō, Shiba Masaki and Shiba Isshin pledge their eldest Musuko, Shiba Akihito Ichigo to wed the Musume of Coyote Starrk and Nelliel Tu Starrk, Tier Starrk when each comes to the age of twenty. This contract is hereby witnessed for Shiba Akihito Ichigo by: Shihōin Yūshirō, Shihōin Yoruichi, and Ishida Ryūken. Witnessed for Tier Starrk: Sung-Sun Cyan, Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez, and Ulquiorra Cifer. All witnesses attest that both parties agree to the terms without hesitation or malice. Sealed this day by Urahara Shihōin Kisuke."

"Is that blood Yūshirō Ōoji?" Tatsuki says as she points to the signatures next to each printed name.

Yūshirō nods his head. "All legal documents between nobles are sealed with Reiatsu-enriched blood Tatsuki-chan; it is the only way to authenticate each signature. No one can fake Reiatsu."

Ichigo scarcely hears Orihime as she squeals loudly when the burnt-orange-haired woman finally realizes what is going on. Chad for the first time in years has both eyes showing not only his surprise, but also the smile on his face shows how happy he is for Ichigo.

Uryū though jumps up and begins yelling at the spiky-haired Third Seat. "Blood!? You are wondering why there is blood!? Don't you understand what you just told us Tatsuki!? Ichigo and Tia... are... engaged..."

Uryū drops back to his seat when Tatsuki shrugs her shoulders at him. "What's so amazing about that? A blind dog could see that one coming a mile away... wait... you... you guys didn't see it!?"

Uryū and Orihime begin sputtering their excuses, while Chad sheepishly looks at his friend with a look of apology.

Ichigo however keeps staring at the piece of parchment silently letting the words sink in.

'I… I'm… I'm betrothed to…'. A small imperceptible smile forms on his face.

"Well shit King. What the hell are you waiting for than!?"

"I agree with Zangetsu, what are you waiting for Ichigo? You should be thanking your Kazoku for informing you of these developments."

Jumping to his feet, Ichigo races around the table and tackles Isshin to the floor in a bear hug. "You… you damn lunatic bastard! I could kiss you if you weren't so damn ugly! Thanks Goat-Chin, thank you, thank you, thank you!"

Yoruichi is next to be grabbed and hugged by her grandson, patting his back as she tightens her hold on him, she speaks to him affectionately. "Masaki knew before any of us that when the two of you were born days apart that your fates would forever be tied together. Throughout your childhood, you and Tia proved it by sharing the closest of bonds between our Kazoku. With each passing year until you left for Seireitei everyone sensed that there was something more than just simple friendship growing between you and Tia-chan. I know that is why you dream of Tia-chan every night Ichigo, your soul longs for its other half, to complete itself and the only way that will happen is for you and Tia to bind to each other in both marriage and by Reiatsu."

Ichigo stiffens in his grandmother's embrace. "How… what does that mean Sobo?"

Pushing Ichigo backwards slightly so she can look him in his eyes, Yoruichi cups his cheek. "On the day you marry Tia, if you marry Tia, we will use Kidō to bond your Reiatsu to hers and hers to yours. Once it is done Ichigo, you will never find happiness in love with anyone else for the rest of your life. In essence, you two will imprint part of your soul into the other. Choose wisely Ichigo…"

"I said 'I love you Tia' the day I left for Seireitei." Ichigo says for the room to hear.

"When she said it to me I said it right back to her, so she would know that I meant it. Then I came here and… fucked it all up. I got so caught up in my studies and with each month that passed I promised to write the next month. Then that month came and went until six years passed and here I am." Ichigo head hits the table hard. "I am so stupid…"

"Yes, you are Ichigo." Isshin says agreeing with his son. "But it doesn't mean you won't be given a chance to make it right. When you see her, you better make damn sure she knows where her place in your heart still lies. If it doesn't Ichigo, tell us now. Do you love Tia-chan?"

Lifting his head, Ichigo stares back at his father, the same goofy, aloof, and sometimes childish man that raised him and his sisters with the help of the three other Shihōin-Shiba elders sitting with them. Day to day life was full of chores and lessons, but the important things about life were always taught to the Shiba siblings by this man in front of him. When their pets died, Isshin explained the reasons for their deaths. When a new horse or chicken was born, Isshin told them how and why. When their mother died, Isshin despite his own anguish told them the truth; how the bad men took their mother from them for no good reason. Shiba Isshin promised to remain a widower for the rest of his life because as he told his children on the fifth anniversary of her death, no one could replace her in his heart.

Looking at his own hand, Ichigo places it on his father's heart and looks him in his eyes. "Now you know Chichi-ue."

"Then when the Starrks arrive, we will have to make arrangements for you Ichigo. If you intend to marry Tia-chan, then we need to find a reason for you to see her more than once every six years." Yūshirō laments with a fake sigh.

"Why can't she stay here?" Uryū asks the Clan Elders.

"Well it seems Ichigo hasn't been the only one growing stronger and dedicating their life to service of their people, Tia-chan is the Tercera Espada, she inherited her Okaa-san's place in the Elite. Oh, and she earned it by kicking some serious ass on the deserts of Hueco Mundo." Kisuke chirps out.

Tatsuki begins laughing at Ichigo. "Oh, you are so dead now Ichigo. Not only did you not write her for six years, but she went and became an Espada, one of the elite. You. Are. Dead."

Ichigo's head hits the table again. "Espada… she's an Espada… Oh… fu…"

"Yeah, that about sums it up Musuko." Isshin says as he claps Ichigo's back.

Yoruichi dumps the pain on. "And you remember Sung-Sun, Apacci, and Mila Rose don't you Ichi-kun?"

"No… no… no… please… don't tell me…"

"…They became her Fracción the day she became the Tercera Espada. So, you not only get to try and fix your mess with Tia, you get to try and do so with the three of them hovering all over you."

"I hate my life."

Yūshirō shakes the orange-haired Lieutenant's shoulder. "Look at it this way Ichigo… what's the worst she can do to you?"

Twisting his head to look at the Clan Head with disbelief in his eyes, Ichigo moans out his response. "You remember that one day I came home with a black eye and Tia didn't talk to me for that whole day."

Isshin and Chad nod their heads in remembrance as Ichigo continues. "Well… I accidentally… sort of… teased her about her clothes that day… and she didn't take it too well and she popped me one. That's what I have to look forward too, her punching me until I'm black and blue all over. She's never held back either… thanks to you Sobo."

Yoruichi lifts her saucer in mocking thanks. "You should be thankful Ichigo… Tia-chan isn't like Kuchiki, she'll at least blitz you openly when she gets you alone. Rukia loves to stab you in the back."

"Haha-ue, you're not helping here." Suì-Fēng mutters out.

"I know." Isshin and Kisuke crack up while the younger members roll their eyes at her answer.

Sensing that he needs to hurry things up, Yūshirō clears his throat. "All kidding aside, Ichigo you will have the full support of the Clan behind you and Tatsuki-chan. Ask and you will have it, anything understand?"

"Yes Shihōin-sama." Ichigo acknowledges his great-uncle as due his position.

"Of course, Shihōin-sama." Tatsuki replies.

Pouring until every saucer is filled, Kisuke lifts his saucer first, when everyone has his or hers raised, he speaks solemnly. "To Peace and to Shiba Masaki, may she smile down on us from the Heavens."

Ichigo sips his Sake slowly while he has visions of Tia's fist flying at his face. 'Okaa-san, I hope she holds back at least a little this time.'

XXXX

Looking in the mirror, Tia's green eyes scan the clothes she is being forced to wear. For the last three days, she has been subjugated to the worst tortures imaginable by seamstresses, tailors and even her own sister and Fracción who took part in the tortures. Now she is standing in front of the mirror looking at…

"I look like…" Tia begins only to be cut off by Apacci.

"You look like the Princess you are Tia-chan. Now stand still while I tie the obi properly."

"I still look like…" Again, her whine is interrupted.

"You look beautiful Tia-chan… really would you stop complaining already. Your mother will be upset if you don't look perfect." Mila Rose adds while holding Tia's arms up and away from her body.

"I look like… like a…"

"I wonder what Ichigo will say when he sees you." Sung-Sun remarks as she finished curling the last of the pouting blonde's hair.

Glaring at her reflection, Tia wants to rip the pale-yellow Kimono off and change back into her white Espada uniform. "He would say what I am thinking; I look like a lemon or some other kind of yellow fruit! I look ridiculous! Look at the obi Lilynette picked out… it's orange! Why did she pick that color!?"

Lilynette growls at her younger sister. "Stuff it you brat! When you see Ichigo's face you'll be thanking all of us for making you look beautiful for your IICCHHIIGGOO! Now shut up and finish getting dressed, we'll be leaving soon!"

Frowning as the human staff finishes dressing her, Tia closes her eyes trying to imagine what Ichigo could look like now. Last night as she paced her room in nervous energy, she had to listen to her Fracción and her mother as they teased her mercilessly. It took everything in her power not to snap out and unleash Tiburón on them when they started to speculate if he might have a girlfriend or not. Then the talk shifted to subjects she'd rather not think about now or she'd have to take yet another cold shower like the one she had to take before she finally felt exhausted enough to fall asleep.

Still, just thinking about his lips touching hers again had her mouth parting slightly as she slowly succumbs to her memory of their first kiss, the only one they shared when they hid behind the curing shed when they tried to delay the inevitable. It was the last time she saw her best friend, the day they both said those words that she forever holds in her heart. Her eyes open wide as she suddenly remembers the promise that he didn't keep.

"I'm gonna rip his head off!" She growls out suddenly, the staff freeze then as their mistress words echo throughout the room.

"Well at least we know she still loves him, it should make their first meeting go smoothly." The older Starrk sister remarks loudly, causing the room to erupt in laughter.

Nelliel Tu Starrk giggles upon hearing her oldest child's remark when she walks into the room and thanks the servants before making her way over to her two daughters. Scanning both, she nods her head in approval at their Kimono.

"It's time." With those words, the entire household becomes an army on the move.

Leading her daughters out of the room, Nelliel sweeps through the halls of Las Noches with an air of calmness surrounding her, inside however she is just as nervous as Tia. Six years have passed since she last saw the majority of the Shiba side of the Clan, six years since she last saw the young man her youngest was promised to almost nineteen years ago. Inside she prays that Ichigo is still the same young boy she remembers, as a mother she can only hope he hasn't changed too much. Looking over her shoulder, she sees Lilynette is walking as calmly and gracefully as she does, but when she looks at Tia, she wants to scream inside.

"Tier Starrk, you will walk like a proper young lady not as if you are in your uniform, am I clear?" Nelliel infuses a bit of her Reiatsu into her command.

"Yes Mother… I can't help it when these clothes are so restrictive compared to my pants and vest. Arrgghhh, how can the women of Soul Society wear this mess all the time?" Tia remarks back.

"You do realize a majority of the men in Soul Society wear Kimono as well?" Coyote Starrk says to his youngest when he suddenly appears next to his family as they walk.

Rolling her eyes, Tia huffs out at her father. "I'm sure not all the men of Soul Society wear this Father."

"You are right Tia-chan, only about eighty five percent do, the rest wear clothes we would deem as normal, which does not include the pure white uniforms of the Espada Elite. Remember Tia, you are not the Tercera Espada this week; you are our youngest daughter and a Princess of Hueco Mundo. Try and remember your manners too. Soul Society is very different from Hueco Mundo; there are very strict social standards you must observe. I'm sure your teacher mentioned them when she was here."

"She did Mother and I remember my lessons, I will not embarrass our Family." Tia shifts from a military swagger and begins to imitate her mother and older sister effortlessly.

As the family arrives at the main entrance to their part of the palace, they are greeted by the Espada who would be their escort. The first person Tia sees is Ulquiorra Cifer, the Cuarto Espada. Standing with his hands in his pockets as is his norm, watching everyone and everything with his piercing emerald eyes. As he nods his black-haired head towards her, she returns his greetings with a smile of her own. She has always known that he was her secret bodyguard, even in battle he was never far from her place, always keeping a close eye on her since her earliest memories. He was also the one who made sure she and Ichigo were never disturbed when they were alone as children.

Standing just to the right of the Cuarto are Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez, the Sexta Espada and Nnoitra Gilga, the Quinto Espada, both laughing at something Nnoitra's Fracción, Tesra Lindocruz must have said while they were waiting. Blue hair shakes violently as Grimmjow holds his ribs with one hand and the other hand rests upon the dirty-blonde-haired Fracción's shoulder. Nnoitra's black hair swings as he is the first of the trio to see them.

"Yo Tia, betcha pretty excited? What's it been… six years since you laid eyes on Ichi-chan?" He along with the rest of the older Espada knows she despises their nickname for him.

Frowning as she finds her way among the Elite, she pouts at the Quinto. "You know I hate that name for Ichigo."

"We all know that Princess, still it's gonna be fun to see that orange-haired runt after so long. Wonder if he's ready to spar against us now? He's supposed to be some kind of Lieutenant or some nonsense rank among them Shinigami." The Espada then leans against his half-moon Zanpakutō.

Tia smiles at hearing the hidden pride in Nnoitra's voice; he had been one of the few Espada Ichigo got very close to besides Grimmjow and Ulquiorra. Ichigo was generally very friendly with most of the Espada except Szayelaporro Granz, Ichigo always whispered that the pink-haired Espada creeped him out when he accompanied the family during their visits to Soul Society. Yammy Llargo was the only Espada Ichigo hadn't met as a child, he had only been granted the privilege after much debate on allowing him to replace the renegade, Baraggan Louisenbairn.

"I'm sure Ichigo is looking forward to some friendly duels with you as well Nnoitra. From what Mother has been able to learn, he has grown very strong in the Shinigami ways of fighting… he did make Lieutenant in nearly the same amount of time as his cousin Shiba Kaien." Tia remarks as she waits for their means of travel.

Outside the sudden voices of the various Fracción become louder when the doors open and bright sunlight pours in. Following behind her family, Tia freezes when she sees the carriages pulling up in front of their palace steps. Confusion clearly showing on her face, she leans towards her sister and asks what was going on.

Lilynette whispers back to her. "We can't simply show up walking out of a Garganta Tia, so they made arrangements for us to arrive in these just outside of Seireitei's walls. We are to come out a few miles away in a clearing where the Shihōin-Shiba Clan will be waiting as our official escorts."

"Are those horses going to be all right traveling through the Garganta, Sister?" Tia questions, wariness evident in her eyes as she watches as the twenty plus wooden contraptions being loaded with their possessions.

"They better be Tia or this will be one very unpleasant trip." Lilynette replies.

"Tia! Lilynette! Come along you two, your carriage is the one behind ours!" Nelliel suddenly shouts from near the first carriage.

Both sisters gulp as they descend the stairs, behind them the Espada and their Fracción begin moving swiftly to take their places as escort. Tia notices Ulquiorra and Grimmjow jumping to the top of their carriage, while Nnoitra, Yammy and their mother's Fracción Dondochakka Birstanne and Pesche Guatiche hop on her mother's carriage. Tesra joins Ulquiorra and Grimmjow up on top of their carriage. Down the line, Espada, their Fracción, and the human servants begin to file into their respective carriages, all but her father. Standing in wait, the former Primera Espada for the late Queen watches all activities until he sees that everyone leaving Las Noches are ready to begin their journey.

"Kick about, Los Lobos." Tia and Lilynette watch through the windows as their father releases his Zanpakutō and he takes on his true form.

Tia can't help the sense of pride and awe she feels every time she sees her father's released form. Standing in his Espada uniform, Coyote Starrk's power is clearly above every Espada including her mother's. From his fur leggings to the fur cape hanging off his hips and the smaller fur tufts hanging off his shoulders; his two pistols holstered on either side of his rib cage and his Hollow Hole showing slightly through his white double-vested shirt with sleeves that are also trimmed with white fur. The only color is his black skin-tight pants and the black holsters holding Los Lobos. Sending her a wink, Tia smiles as her father snaps his fingers and a black void opens up that is large enough for the horses and carriages to pass through.

Waving to the first carriage operator, Coyote issues his orders. "Let's bring about the end of these senseless wars once and for all."

With that, the large convoy leaves Las Noches to the cheers and shouts of nearly the entire domed capital's population watching from nearly every free space. Waving to the crowds of Hollows and humans, Tia hopes that when she returns, she has more than just a few memories of the time she is going to spend with Ichigo.

XXXX

Ichigo sits quietly as Yuzu brushes his hair and after hearing her mutter about why she was given the impossible task of taming his spiky orange locks for the hundredth time, he finds her hand.

"Zu, you can stop now. I doubt anything is going to help and I am not letting you put any of those damn chemicals in my hair." He says when he sees his light-haired sister reaching for one of her strange jars.

"But Ichi-nii don't you want to look dashing and handsome for Tia Onee-san?" Yuzu giggles when she sees her brother blushing nicely at hearing her call Tia her older sister even though she and Karin don't as of yet know of his Omiai with her.

"I doubt she'll be looking at my hair Imouto, I figure she'll be thinking of the best way to hide my body when she gets me alone first." Ichigo remarks back with a smile on his face.

Both siblings laugh as the door to his room opens and Karin walks in, her arms bearing Yuzu's Kimono with both the Shihōin and Shiba crests embroidered on opposite sides of the panels. Striding to Ichigo's bed, she sets her sister's pale blue Kimono down as well as Yuzu's Zanpakutō. Lifting an eyebrow and frowning when he sees the yellow silk-wrapped Tsuka sticking out from the black sheath, he watches his other sister shifting her own Zanpakutō around her waist.

"Goat-Chin said Yūshirō Ōoji-san wants everyone in the Clan wearing their Zanpakutō, just in case anything should happen." Karin remarks after catching her brother staring at her Zanpakutō.

Ichigo frowns even harder, he knows his sisters are going to apply for the Academy next semester, but it doesn't mean he wants them involved with the business of war; with the peace treaty, maybe he'd get lucky and neither would ever have to fight.

"They are strong Ichigo, just because you are already Shinigami, don't deny them their right to defend and protect. The three of you come from very strong bloodlines; war is second nature to you as it will be for them." Ichigo wonders why his Zanpakutō would speak so suddenly, normally his white doppelganger keeps to himself or interjects at the worst times in an attempt to embarrass him.

'What's with you today?'

Ichigo swears he hears Zangetsu growl lowly. "Just… be wary Ichigo. That's all I'm gonna say, be wary of anything strange that might happen while they are here."

With that Ichigo feels his Zanpakutō fade to his hiding spot, Juda continues to reside openly but says nothing to him or about the words his other half just spoke. Fighting down those feelings that he himself has had over the last three days, Ichigo turns his attentions back to the twins. Both were finishing with touching up their hair, makeup and during his brief interlude with his Zanpakutō, Yuzu had managed to slip away and change into her Kimono, her Zanpakutō hanging from her waist. Standing up, Ichigo looks over his sisters and gives them both a nod of approval. Opening the door, he lets Yuzu and Karin out first before following two steps behind them as they descend into the madness of the Clan.

As he makes his way downstairs, Ichigo gives a nod to Tatsuki as she stands with Orihime and Uryū, both the Ishidas are wearing the silken stoles of the Shihōin-Shiba Clan over their pristine white clothes, Ichigo lifts one eyebrow when he spies the Quincy emblem underneath the Clan's but says nothing. Ichigo knows his cousin is very proud of who and where his family was from before joining the Clan officially years ago. Orihime smiles enthusiastically and waves at him and the girls once she spots them coming to join her and Uryū.

"This is so exciting Ichigo. I can't wait to see Tia-chan and Lilynette-chan and Coyote Oji-san and Nelliel Oba-san. Or the Tres Bestias for that matter, I wonder if Cyan Sung-Sun learned how to cook yet, it would be so much fun if she did, she can cook with me and Yuzu when they stay here during their visit." She stops when she sees everyone looking at her.

"What?" She nervously grips her husband's arm.

"Nothing Hime, nothing at all." Tatsuki says with a warm smile before looking at Ichigo. "What about you Ichigo? You excited yet?"

Ichigo shrugs his shoulders. "Something like that."

Yuzu and Karin both snicker at their brother's attitude, the black-haired twin smirks as she speaks. "Ichigo is worried if Tia Onee-chan is going to pop him one in front of the whole Seireitei or not."

"Well it is a legitimate worry, isn't it?" Ichigo grumbles out.

A mocha-skinned arm wraps around Ichigo's neck then. "Well a good fight is always the best way for lovers to resolve their disputes Ichigo. I'm sure yours and Tia's will… be fascinating, but knowing her, she'll wait until you two are alone before she kills ya."

"Thanks a whole bunch Obā-san, I'm a nervous wreck already, Zangetsu is acting odd and these past three days relearning all those damn dances and etiquette again didn't help me get much sleep, so if you could just please give me something other than death at the hands of my best friend, one I haven't seen or spoken to in over six years, I'd appreciate it immensely." Ichigo says in one take, only to facepalm when Yoruichi begins laughing at him.

"Nope, no can do Ichi-kun. Face it, this is your screw up, you fix it the best way you can and if that means taking a beating, you do so with pride. If I hear that you whined or otherwise act in a manner unbefitting a Shihōin-Shiba I'll toss you out of the Clan myself." Her golden eyes telling him she means every word.

"Any one wanna step in and help?" Ichigo asks of his closest friends and family.

"No."

"No way Ichigo."

"Uh uh."

"You're on your own."

"Sorry Ichigo."

"Please live Ichi-nii."

"Traitors, each and every one of ya!" Ichigo stomps off to the front of the Estate with the laughter of his family and friends following him.

As they make their way outside, Ichigo pauses when he sees Yūshirō, Goat-Chin, and Kisuke each dressed as Yoruichi is. All three wearing their Shihakushō, but instead of their Captain's haori, the four are wearing either the dark blue of the Shihōin or the light blue of the Shiba Clans. In front of them is nearly every available member of the Clan's legions in Seireitei, Shinigami assassins or the extremely spiritually aware humans who make up the bulk of the Mercenary Companies. Each group of two hundred and fifty lined up in perfect squares, their uniforms crisp and clean and their weapons polished to perfection.

The moment Ichigo and the others step outside of the manor, the legions snap to attention as Yūshirō holds his right hand up.

"In less than an hour you will meet the King and Queen of Hueco Mundo and provide them escort and security. Suì-Fēng Taichō will be in command of the detail until the moment you arrive back in Seireitei, and then you will be under the command of Shiba Ichigo Fuku-Taichō and Third Seat Arisawa Tatsuki. From this moment until the Hollows of Hueco Mundo return to their home, we are their shields and swords. We will give our lives so they may live to ensure the peace we have worked so hard to achieve here this momentous week. We will hopefully be the last of the generations that know only of war and strife with the Hollows. In a year or two I hope that I will be able to send you back to the Rukongai, to your former homes you left to find a better life, so you can share your good fortune as we sweep aside the criminals and gangs that rule many of the outer districts now. Soul Society will regain its former glory so all may share in her wealth; you of the Shihōin-Shiba will be the vanguard of our people for generations to come. Now go! Our Clan has been given a great honor and I expect each and every one of us to live up to those expectations!"

A roar erupts from the mouths of those assembled as they raise their weapons and shake the ground with their pounding feet. Soon a drum begins to beat a cadence, which is soon followed by more drums as young boys and girls take their positions at the front of the columns and at their Clan Head's approval they begin to march out onto the streets towards the Eastern Blue Stream Gate. As each of the squares pass Yūshirō, the men and women forming them snap their heads towards him and raise their weapons again in salute. Bowing in response, the Shihōin-Shiba clan's men and women return their acknowledgments. After ten minutes, the drums are all they can hear at first until loud singing begins to echo back to them from the narrow streets.

Listening until it fades away, Ichigo sighs softly. 'It won't be long now.'

"Yeah, it won't be long until our Queen kicks your ass for breaking ya promise Ichigo! Hahahaha, she's so gonna own you!"

'Shut up you! If I remember right, Tiburón gonna make you pay as well for not making sure I kept that promise.' Ichigo can see his white carbon copy's face stop mid laugh and swallow in fear.

"You… you're bluffing King. She… she wouldn't do that to me? Would she? You bastard! This is all your fault!" Ichigo winces when he feels Zangetsu kicking the ground of their shared inner world.

"I disagree Zangetsu; this is a fault we all shall share in equally, ours for not reminding Ichigo to fulfill his promise to Tia-sama, Ichigo for being the procrastinator that he is. As such we will each take responsibility for our inaction." Ichigo and Zangetsu both share the shock they feel at being reprimanded by the third entity.

"Well fuck me…"

'No shit…'

"Ichi-nii? Are you okay Ichi-nii?" Yuzu's brown eyes are staring at him worriedly when he shifts his focus onto his youngest sister.

Nodding his head in the affirmative, Ichigo smiles down at the light-haired twin. "Sorry Zu, the guys wanted to talk to me."

"Oh. What did they say?"

Ichigo feels everyone's eyes on him then as they too want to know what his spirits had to say. Shifting his blades, he begins to walk towards Sōkyoku. "Nothing much Imouto, come on I'll carry you there."

Kneeling down, he grins when Yuzu jumps on his back and wraps her arms around his neck. "Don't go too fast Ichigo, you'll mess my hair up if you do."

Karin finds her way to Chad's back, while Orihime giggles when Uryū wraps his arm around his wife's waist. Yūshirō, Yoruichi, Isshin, and Kisuke join with Tatsuki and the remaining Onmitsukidō members as they follow after Ichigo's slow Shunpō. As they travel, Ichigo can't help but glance at the Eastern gate that now stands open, the columns of the Shihōin-Shiba escort party long gone on their way to meet with the reigning King and Queen of Hueco Mundo.

'It won't be long now… Tia.'

XXXX

"What is taking so long Lily!?" Tia growls out as the vast group waits for their Shinigami escort.

Waving her fan to cool herself off, the older sister sighs as she repeats herself yet again. "We are early Tia, so please… SHUT UP!"

Dodging the now thrown paper fan, the youngest daughter of Coyote and Nelliel Starrk folds her arms under her breasts and huffs out in annoyance. "Sorry Lily. I just hate all this waiting…"

"…He'll be there Tia. He's probably just as nervous as you are now… so don't be so hard on him. Remember there were high expectations for him being only the third Shinigami ever to wield dual Zanpakutō. It may have a lot to do with why he didn't write you, Uncle Kisuke mentioned he studied under the best Soul Society had to offer him including members of Squad Zero. If that is true, it may well mean the rumors of him becoming a Captain are very true. If that does happen Tia-chan, what will you decide to do?"

Before Tia could answer, the sounds of drums beating begin to reverberate through the air. Both sisters move to look out the windows of their carriage, and as the drumming gets louder they soon see two long lines of humans and Shinigami wearing the Shihōin-Shiba crest on their uniforms approaching. In the lead at the middle-front is a small woman wearing the white haori of the Gotei Thirteen, her twin braids unmistakable as Suì-Fēng followed by her Lieutenant, Ōmaeda Marechiyo march towards the waiting group of Hollows and their human servants. Tia scans the men and women in black looking for his familiar orange hair but soon realizes that Ichigo is not among them. Casting her eyes downward, she begins to doubt her heart.

"Shaolin!" Grimmjow shouts as he drops from the top of the carriage, causing both Tia and Lilynette to grab a handle from the sudden shift in weight.

Watching the small Shinigami captain raise her hand up in greeting, Tia watches Grimmjow, then the other Espada begin to swarm around the petite daughter of Yoruichi. Desperately wanting to get out of the carriage, Tia snaps her head when a dark hand grabs the handle and effective keeps her from leaving the carriage.

"Mila Rose!" Tia shouts out.

The dark-skinned Fracción shakes her head at the princess. "Queen Nelliel ordered us to keep you in the carriage until our arrival in Seireitei. So, you stay put Tia."

Slumping back into her seat, she can hear the voices outside talking but isn't able to understand anything they are saying to each other. Soon the carriage shifts again as Grimmjow, Ulquiorra and Tesra retake their places up top. However, the door opens and the short Shinigami makes her way inside and smirks when she looks at Tia. Finding a spot between the Fracción, Suì-Fēng closes her eyes and leans back.

"Aunt Shaolin?" Tia questions the smaller woman.

Holding her hand up, Suì-Fēng grins as she speaks. "I was told not a word until you see him for yourself, sorry Tia-chan orders from the Clan."

"Dammit… why the secrecy Aunt Shaolin? I… just want to know… anything…"

"Because Tia-chan, your Ryōshin and my Clan think that torturing both you and Ichigo is hilarious. They seem to be correct by the look currently on your face." Shaolin says as she snuggles into the seat.

XXXX

Nelliel looks at her husband as he sits in deep thought as the carriage moves quickly over the smooth road surface. The news that the Kuchiki Clan had attempted to make an arranged marriage between Ichigo and their daughter was unsettling at best. Both Starrk's know their daughter and Ichigo would never agree to marry anyone else and now they are going to have to tell their daughter tonight when they have dinner with the Shihōin-Shiba Clan. Shaolin informed them that the Clan had no choice but to tell Ichigo early because sooner or later rumors are going to spread that they refused a marriage to the possible future ruler of Soul Society.

"What's on your mind Husband?" Nelliel asks as she leans forward and taps Coyote's hand.

Propping his chin on his closed fist, the current ruler of Las Noches eyes the column of mercenaries shielding the winding carriages. Sighing softly, he glances at his hazel-eyed mate of thirty-five plus years and speaks in tones of remembrance.

"Do you remember the day she took the throne, how her power filled the capital and everyone knew we had a new ruler, one who could have changed our history forever?"

"I remember Coyote. She was awe inspiring in her release form, just as her Father was before her. Why do you bring this up now? Because of the news that the Kuchiki were looking to marry their daughter to Ichigo?" Nelliel tilts her head watching for his reactions.

"Partly Nel, partly. It's just... everything is going to change again. Twenty years since we swore our oath to the Queen and now part of that oath has been fulfilled. All we have to do is complete the second half of that oath…"

"…The hardest is yet to come. Coyote… they will succeed… together. The Queen had that gift, one that allowed her to glimpse the future, how else did she predict the events of today?" Nelliel Tu Starrk's green hair swivels as she laughs softly.

Looking over at his mate and the mother of his two daughters, Coyote Starrk sees the playful side of the Hollow he fell in love with all those decades ago. Shifting suddenly and before his startled wife can react; Coyote Starrk is holding his wife's face in his hands, his nostrils flaring slightly as he looks into her eyes. Leaning his cheek into the palm of her hand, the King of Hueco Mundo leans forward and just before he captures his wife's lips, he speaks.

"Do you really believe she'll try and kill him after so long?" Coyote shudders as Nel's lips brush against his.

"There is no doubt in my mind. You remember our courtship, don't you?" Her lips seal his before he can answer.

'I'd never trade those nights for anything.' Coyote pushes his wife into the cushion as he deepens his display of affections.

XXXX

Tatsuki sends a worried glance to her friend as he stands next to her, her eyes occasionally catching Ichigo's emotions playing across his face. She hopes that when he sees his best friend after six years of separation it will be enough to calm the slowly boiling Lieutenant after his brief but nasty talk with the Kuchiki princess. She didn't hear what was said, but the fact that Ichigo's Reiatsu nearly crushed the few unseated Shinigami that got caught in his release had most of the Captains and Lieutenants speaking in hushed tones. Deciding she needs to help him clear his mind, the Third Seat twists her body to face him and to keep anyone from seeing what she is going to say to him.

"It's over Ichigo. Forget that bitch and what she said. In a few minutes, your life is going to get back on track. As soon as you see her, everything will go back to the way it was meant to be, albeit with a few bumps and bruises, but normal again." Tatsuki glances over her shoulder towards the direction where the cause of her friend's recent trouble stands with her escort for the week.

Ichigo's smoldering brown orbs follow the spiky-haired Third Seat gaze and he lets loose a growl. "She was told I was spoken for, my Kaa-chan even gave her blessings for my future marriage, and what does she do? She tries to sabotage it again by asking Ukitake Taichō if I could be her escort for the coming week! It's not my fault she doesn't have one of her liking. Hell, most would be honored to have Tōshirō on their arm, yet she bitches at me as if it was my fault that her Otou-san picks a Taichō to partner with her for the week of festivities."

"She'll get over it Ichigo. Just keep your distance from her and it will all blow over soon enough."

He keeps his head down when he speaks again. "Gonna be hard to do if she wants to spend time with Tia and Lilynette. Rukia will get pretty petty if she thinks that Tia or Lilynette are trying to dodge spending time with her, you know how strange nobles are Tatsuki, we see it all the time when they come see Yūshirō Ōoji at the estate. Imagine that but stuck in a four foot eleven inches vengeful, spiteful ice-cold bitch."

Arisawa chuckles her agreement, but she still keeps him hidden for the most part. "Ichigo, listen to me now as your friend. No matter what she tries you already know who you are going to marry and if the dreams are any kind of indication, you're pretty glad that Masaki-sama made sure of your happiness. Now I'm just wondering how the Clan plans to get you and Tia together more often…"

"…I could always resign." He interrupts his friend.

She stares at him wide eyed then. "No Shinigami has ever resigned, retire yes, dismissed yes, resign no. You've been a Shinigami for less than five years Ichigo, I doubt they'd let you go that easily, especially since you are possibly the next Taichō for a Squad, perhaps Squad Six if Kuchiki-dono takes the throne."

Staring into Tatsuki's disbelieving eyes, Ichigo lays a hand on her shoulder and pulls her in even closer. "There's something I've never told you Suki… but the dreams… aren't just dreams anymore. Sometimes they feel like memories… memories I can't explain having. I see a desert under a night sky and a figure standing with their back to me… then they speak but not once have I remembered hearing what they said to me. The weird thing is… I don't feel afraid but more like I am safe with what or who that person is… does that sound crazy?"

"If it was anyone else I'd say yes but this is you were talking about so…"

"…So…"

"Ichigo ever since we were children, you have always been different than the rest of us… special somehow. You're the strongest Shinigami in a thousand years, even before Masaki-sama's passing; you were always trying to get stronger so you could protect the twins and us, even if we didn't want you to. These dreams you are having just might be someone trying to tell you something important, I don't know what exactly I'm just guessing here Ichigo, but I don't think you have anything to worry about. From what you said, they seem like they want to speak to you, not attack you, and so just try harder next time to hear them speak to you. That's the best I can tell you right now." Tatsuki grips his forearm tightly.

"Thanks Tatsuki… for everything." Ichigo smiles at her as their Captain approaches them.

"Shiba Fuku-Taichō, Arisawa-san how are you two holding up?" Jūshirō asks as he approaches his two highest ranking officers, slyly giving Ichigo a once over to make sure his Lieutenant has a better grasp on his Reiatsu after his brief but violent release.

"Good Sir."

"Fine Sir."

Smiling at his two younger officers, Ukitake gauges his Lieutenant's face as he speaks to him. "You must be very excited to see the Starrks after so long Ichigo-san?"

"I really can't describe how I feel right now Taichō… happy and, well to be honest… worried." Ichigo says as he rubs the back of his head nervously.

"Why is that?" Now the Captain's interests are piqued.

Tatsuki snickers as she helps her Captain understand. "He's afraid of what his best friend is going to do when they are finally alone Taichō. Ichigo broke a promise he made to Tier-sama when they were both twelve."

"Thanks a lot, Tatsuki." The Lieutenant glares as he crosses his arms in annoyance.

Ukitake smiles at the two but decides he isn't going to let Ichigo off the hook just yet. "So Shiba-san what promise did you fail to keep that has you so nervous?"

"I…" Ukitake and Arisawa both raise eyebrows when Ichigo's voice drops in volume.

"Tell him Ichigo or I will."

"Fine. I promised I would write Tia once a month but I never did Taichō. I… put my studies first and over time I just put it off until… well… this." Ichigo shrugs with his hands up.

Ichigo and Tatsuki stare at their Captain when he whistles lowly. "Normally I wouldn't say such things Ichigo, but in this case, I believe you are in hot water as they say. I hope you made plans to correct this situation with your friend Ichigo-san, very good plans."

Nervously rubbing the back of his head, Ichigo admits to what his first plans are. "Well I figure I would tell her I'm sorry and then let her beat me like Yoruichi Obā-san suggested.

"A good start, but I hope for your sake you have more than that to appease your friend." Turning away and folding his hands into his haori, Ukitake offers Ichigo his next advice. "Flowers and groveling work just as well, or so Shunsui tells me. Ise Fuku-Taichō seems to think her Taichō has had many years of practice…"

The sounds of distant drums beating causes everyone to stop and look towards the Eastern gate, in a moment the parade ground become a hive of activity as Shinigami race for their places, and the Royal Family, Sōtaichō, Taichō and Fuku-Taichō begin to assemble in wait. Ichigo and Tatsuki take their places behind their Captain just as the first carriage and their escort appears through the middle roadway leading to towards Sōkyoku. Standing towards the front to greet the King and Queen of Hueco Mundo are the Sōtaichō, Kuchiki Byakuya, his wife Hisana and finally Rukia.

Ichigo ignores the glare of the Kuchiki princess as his Captain and Suì-Fēng, who arrived a minute before the first carriage, take their places behind the Royal family and the oldest serving Shinigami. Ichigo eyes the first carriage and is puzzled by the hulking form sitting on top; he doesn't remember an Espada of that size who nearly covers the entire roof he occupies. He shifts from foot to foot until a swift and painful fist hits him in his short ribs and Tatsuki's voice whispers that more pain will follow if he doesn't stop fidgeting. Fighting to keep still, Ichigo finally breathes a sigh of relief when he sees Nelliel's Fracción Dondochakka Birstanne and Pesche Guatiche emerging from the shadow of the larger Espada.

However the next carriage has his nervousness and his joy climbing when he sees both the blue-haired Grimmjow and the black-haired Ulquiorra sitting with Tesra up on top. Trying hard to peer into the shadow filled carriage, he thinks he sees a head of blonde hair but isn't sure. However, he does see a face he can't ever forget when Emilou Apacci looks out the side window and motions to someone inside, then his vision is blocked by the angle of the wooden coach as it stops. For five minutes, the winding column forms up neatly in the parade ground. Ichigo's senses grow wary when the aged Shinigami slams his Zanpakutō down once to quiet the populace who have gathered to witness history.

A male's voice begins speaking loudly through the use of Bakudō Number Seventy-Seven, Tenteikūra.

"Soul Society, please welcome the King and Queen of Hueco Mundo, Coyote Starrk and Nelliel Tu Starrk!"

Loud cheers erupt from thousands of voices, Shinigami and human alike as Ichigo watches the Hollows his family have always had close ties to for over twenty years disembark from their coach. Waving to the crowds, the Squad Thirteen Lieutenant watches as Coyote and Nelliel approach the Sōtaichō only to stop a few feet from the white-bearded elder Shinigami. Holding his wife's hand, Coyote Starrk bows with just his head as does Nelliel before he speaks, his words carried by the Tenteikūra.

"Greetings Kuchiki Byakuya-dono, Hisana-dono, Rukia-dono, Yamamoto Genryūsai Shigekuni Sōtaichō. It is a great honor to be here with you this historic week that will see an end to war between our two lands."

"The honor is ours as well Starrk-dono, on behalf our Reiō, Kuchiki Kami, please be welcomed to Soul Society." Byakuya intones and the crowds cheer wildly again as the two leaders shake hands.

Both Royal Families turn and wave for several minutes to the crowds until Yamamoto Sōtaichō taps his sealed Zanpakutō three times. As the population quiets down, the aged commander turns and motions for his two Captains to step forward.

"Starrk-sama I would like to introduce Ukitake Jūshirō of Squad Thirteen, and you already know Suì-Fēng Taichō of Squad Two. Their Squads will be in charge of your safety as well as providing guides for you and your followers so they may enjoy the sights of our grand capital."

Ichigo's nerves were fraying as he watches his Aunt and his Captain greet Coyote and Nelliel and after a few pleasantries, Ukitake turns towards his younger officers and motions to them.

"I believe I don't need to introduce my Fuku-Taichō or Third Seat…" Jūshirō and the Shinigami watch with amusement when Nelliel rushes Ichigo and Tatsuki and grips them both in one armed hugs and crushes them against her large breasts.

"Ichigo! Tatsuki!" She hugs them both tight until the spiky-haired Third Seat begins tapping the Hollow Queen's shoulder rapidly.

"Can't… breathe… Nelliel… Oba-san!"

"I… agree… can't… breath!" Ichigo sucks in much needed air when he and Tatsuki are suddenly released.

"Opps, sorry Ichigo, Suki… you'll forgive me, right?" Hazel eyes blinks with faked hurt.

Ichigo pinches the bridge of his nose while Tatsuki glares at the older woman. "Yeah, yeah we do Oba… sorry Nelliel-sama."

Nelliel and Coyote stare at Ichigo and Tatsuki with confusion before they both realize what is going on. Turning towards the Kuchiki noble, Nelliel points at the two and speaks.

"While we are here, we don't expect Ichigo or Tatsuki or any of their friends to address us as anything but what they did when they were younger and that is as Nel Oba-san and Coyote Oji-san."

Sōtaichō tries to explaining to the teal-haired Hollow how that was unacceptable until Nelliel puts her foot down.

"I have known the Shihōin-Shiba children all their lives, and as a close friend to Masaki Shiba, I must insist Yamamoto Sōtaichō… they are regarded as close kin to us… as such I won't accept anything less."

"As you wish." All eyes turn to look at Kuchiki Byakuya then. "If it wasn't for the hard work of the clan mentioned Sōtaichō, this day would not be possible. As Starrk-sama stated, they are as close as Kazoku can be without being blood."

Bowing his head in acceptance, the Head Captain turns back towards Ichigo and Tatsuki, neither miss the slight glare in his one open eye. Nelliel elbows Ichigo and points to the second carriage where Grimmjow and Ulquiorra are standing on either side of the unopened door. Gulping, he hears Coyote speaking once more.

"My oldest daughter, Lilynette Starrk." Tatsuki and Ichigo grin when said person hops out and begins waving wildly as she walks up to the gathered nobles and Captains, cheers and yelling following her movements until she is standing before Byakuya and his family.

Bowing respectfully, Lilynette greets her hosts. "Thank you for the wonderful welcome Kuchiki-dono."

Then as fast as her mother was, the light green-haired princess begins to giggle when she hugs the spiky-haired Shinigami. "Tatsuki!"

She pauses then and glares at the orange-haired man next to Tatsuki. "Oh, it's you Ichigo."

Resisting the urge to facepalm after the greeting Tia's older sister gives him, Ichigo rolls his eyes as he bows to Lilynette. "Nice to see you too."

Twisting so she can see the carriage she just left, Lilynette leans towards the orange-haired Lieutenant and whispers to him. "You got a lot to explain idiot; I hope you put your affairs in order."

"Fuck me." He says so low only Tatsuki and Lilynette hear him, or so he thought until he sees Coyote and Nelliel both grinning at him, the wife of the Hollow King mouths to him alone.

'Don't worry… it'll be quick… maybe.'

"My youngest daughter… Tier Starrk." Coyote says to the Kuchiki noble.

The crowd grows silent when Ulquiorra reaches inside and a tan hand grips his for support. Stepping out into the light, the crowd begins to speak words of radian, lovely, gorgeous, and alluring beauty to describe the blonde-haired goddess. Tia ignores the hushed whispers and immediately begins to scan the place her parents are standing at when she sees him. The twelve-year-old bright-haired boy who left her is now standing as a handsome young Lieutenant of nearly nineteen. Her face flushes when she sees his mouth hanging wide open until Tia watches as her sister gently snaps it closed, his brown eyes latching onto her green orbs as she and the Cuarto Espada approach the dais. With each step, she feels her heart beating faster and faster as she gets closer to person she confessed to six years ago. Stopping just a few feet away, she bows and speaks.

"Greetings Kuchiki-dono, I am Tier Starrk and I am pleased to meet your Highnesses." As she rises, she is momentarily shocked by the hostile look she is receiving from the raven-haired Kuchiki princess.

"A pleasure to meet you Tier-sama, I believe you know your escort from your childhood…" Byakuya then motions for Ichigo to approach.

"Oh, damn did she grow up King…"

"I have to agree Ichigo…Tia-sama has become very beautiful."

Walking up to the younger Starrk daughter, Ichigo pauses an arm's length away and bows deeply to Tia. "Welcome to Soul Society Tia…"

Ichigo instinctively wraps his arms around Tia when she shyly pulls him into a hug and begins to speak to him in a near whisper. "Six years I've waited to see you again Ichigo… Six years my heart has waited to feel yours against it again…"

"I know Tia… I'm… sorry." He gently responds so no one can hear him.

His ribs begin to feel an unusual amount of pressure and then the ominous future becomes more certain when she whispers menacingly into his ear. "Not as sorry as you will be tonight, you ass."

XXXX

AN: First off, I'm sorry this isn't the Naberius Heir chapter many of you are still waiting for. As of now, I'll be honest; it has been slow going to find something I like in regards in how the meeting between the Devils and Shinigami is to go, until recently. Hopefully starting this week after I edit the next chapter of The Lost King, it will begin to take shape enough that I can start sending more to my beta to edit so I can get it out soon. So again, I apologize for the wait. Now about this story.

Well for those of you who have read my other stories, I've mentioned I was looking for a story that was once on the defunct site called Your FanFiction. Basically, Ichigo's mother was the Queen of Hueco Mundo and she married Isshin after a failed assassination attempt. Once Masaki did die from the second attempt / or other causes I don't remember, rule of Hueco Mundo went to her two most trusted generals, Coyote and Nelliel, whose daughters are Lilynette and Tia. In the original story Tia and Ichigo were friends for years until he left for Seireitei and from there…well the story I'm gonna write will follow those elements I can remember, the rest I have to make up on my own.

Since I didn't download it or copy it in anyway, I figure I would go with what little I could remember of it and make my own version. If anyone remembers the story I am talking about and/or knows the author could you send me a PM so I can find him/her and see if they still have their story available, or even if you remember a similar story and can provide me with details that would be great. If you any other questions, just send me a PM and I'll answer as soon as I can. Lastly, this story won't be updated nearly as often as my others as I try to remember the story I am basing this off. The major sticking point right now is I forgot how Rukia got Ichigo exiled and taken in by the Espada to train them in their ways, secretly instructing him without his knowledge so he can become the next King without revealing to him who his Mother really was before he is ready. So I hope this jogs a few memories for any of you reading this. Thanks.

Next, for those of you who have never read my stories before, a guide is provided below for nearly all the Japanese honorifics and familial terms. Any new or irregular phrases will also be translated so you don't have to go looking for them.

Also of note, I may delete certain sections and post this story as well on AO3 and AFF due to future graphic scenes, I'll let you know when those chapters are posted so you can read the full chapter the same day as the edited version is loaded up here. So, enjoy and I look forward to both positive and critical reviews, please note this story takes place in an Alternate Universe, so don't expect anything but an original story. Parts of the Bleach universe will be used, terms, items, powers for the most part, after that with some help from a few great writers here; I do hope to bring you all something very enjoyable to read.

Liam.

Translations List

Honorifics

-san (さん) : Used to address people with a generic level of respect (equivalent to Mr/Mrs/Ms)

-sama (様) : Used to address people with a higher level of respect (equivalent to Master/Madam)

-chan (ちゃん) : Used to address people with familiarity (usually females)

-kun (君) : Used to address people with familiarity (usually males)

-dono (どの): Used to address people with great respect (equivalent to Lord/Lady)

-ue (上) : Used to address one's parents with great respect

Addressing people by their family name without honorifics can be seen as disrespectful.

Addressing people by their given name without honorifics implies a high degree of familiarity.

People may not always use the same honorific when addressing the same person; it depends on the situation and what they are feeling at the moment.

Special

-tachi (たち) : Used as a suffix to refer to a group

Family Titles

Chichi (父) / Otō (お父) : Father, usually addressed as Chichi-ue or Otō-san/sama (also written as Otou)

Haha (母) / Okā (お母) : Mother, usually addressed as Haha-ue or Okā-san/sama (also written as Okaa)

Ani (兄) / Onī (お兄) : Older Brother, usually addressed as Aniki or Onī-san/sama (also written as Onii)

Ane (姉) / Onē (お姉) : Older Sister, usually addressed as Aneki or Onē-san/sama (also written as Onee)

Otōto (弟) : Younger Brother, usually addressed as Otōto-san/chan (also written as Otouto)

Imōto (妹) : Younger Sister, usually addressed as Imōto-chan (also written as Imouto)

Sofu (祖父) / Ojī (お爺) : Grandfather, usually addressed as Ojī-san/sama (also written as Ojii)

Sobo (祖母) / Obā (お婆) : Grandmother, usually addressed as Obā-san/sama (also written as Obaa)

Oji (叔父) : Uncle, usually addressed as Oji-san (not to be mistaken with Grandfather/Ojī-san)

Oba (叔母): Aunt, usually addressed as Oba-san (not to be mistaken with Grandmother/Obā-san)

Itoko (いとこ) : Cousin (can be written with different Kanji depending on age, gender and which side of the family they come from)

Oi (甥) : Nephew

Mei (姪) : Niece

Kyōfu (教父) : Godfather, usually addressed as Kyōfu-san/sama

Kyōbo (教母) : Godmother, usually addressed as Kyōbo-san/sama

Ōoji (大叔父) : Great-Uncle, usually addressed as Ōoji-san

Ōoba (大叔母) : Great-Aunt, usually addressed as Ōoba-san

Sōsofu (曽祖父) : Great-Grandfather, usually addressed as Sōsofu-sama

Sōsobo (曽祖母) : Great-Grandmother, usually addressed as Sōsobo-sama

Keifu (継父) : Stepfather

Keibo (継母) : Stepmother

Mamamusuko (継息子) : Stepson

Mamamusume (継娘) : Stepdaughter

Relations

Otto (夫) / Goshujin (ご主人) : Husband, usually addressed as Goshujin-san/sama

Tsuma (妻) / Oku (奥) : Wife, usually addressed as Oku-san

Musuko (息子) : Son, usually addressed as Musuko-san

Musume (娘) : Daughter, usually addressed as Musume-san

Magomusuko (孫息子) : Grandson

Magomusume (孫娘) : Granddaughter

Ryōshin (両親) : Parents (also written as Ryoushin)

Sofubo (祖父母) : Grandparents

Keifubo (継父母) : Step-parents

Fūfu (夫婦) : Married Couple

Kyōdai (兄弟) : Brothers (can also refer to Siblings in general)

Shimai (姉妹) : Sisters

Itoko (いとこ) : Cousins

Kodomo (子供) : Children

Mago (孫) : Grandchildren

Kazoku (家族) : Family

Shinseki (親戚) : Relatives

Dōhōshu (同胞種) : Siblings

Nakama (仲間) : Comrades

Tomodachi (友達) : Friends

Senpai (先輩) : Senior (also written as Sempai, can be used as a suffix '-senpai')

Kōhai (後輩) : Junior (also written as Kouhai, can be used as a suffix '-kouhai')

Sensei (先生) : Teacher, Doctor, Respected Person

Deshi (弟子) : Student, Apprentice

Informal

Tō-chan (父ちゃん) : Dad (also written as Tou-chan)

Kā-chan (母ちゃん) : Mom (also written as Kaa-chan)

Nī-chan (兄ちゃん) : Big Bro (also written as Nii-chan)

Nē-chan (姉ちゃん) : Big Sis (also written as Nee-chan)

Jī-chan (爺ちゃん) : Gramps (also written as Jii-chan)

Bā-chan (婆ちゃん) : Granny (also written as Baa-chan)

Disrespectful

Oyaji (親父) : Old Man

Sochi (其方) : Junior (usually son)

Jiji (爺) : Old Geezer

Baba (婆) : Old Crone

Bō (ぼう) / Bōzu (ぼうず) : Boy (also written as 'bou/bouzu', can be used as a suffix '-bou/bouzu')

Boya (ボヤ) : Boy (literal translation, used as a suffix '-boya')

Insulting

Teme (てめ) : Jerk, Bastard etc. (can be used as a suffix '-teme')

Dobe (どべ) : Dumbass, Moron etc. (lit. Dead Last)

Baka (バカ) : Stupid

Hentai (変態) : Pervert

Chibi (チビ) : Midget, Runt

Gaki (ガキ) : Brat (can be used as a suffix '-gaki')

Speech

Yare Yare (やれやれ) : My my (exasperation)

Ara Ara (あらあら) : My my (surprise)

Maa Maa (まあまあ) : There there (comforting / calming down)

Moshi Moshi (もしもし) : Hello (greeting over a phone)

Hai (はい) : Yes

Ano (あの) : Umm...

Are (あれ) : Huh?

Yosh (よし) : Alright! (excited)

Yosh yosh (よしよし) : Good good (approval)

Itadakimasu (いただきます) : Let's eat (appreciative)

Gochisousama deshita (御馳走様でした) : Thank you for the feast (appreciative)

Arigatō Gozaimasu (ありがとうございます) : Thank you very much

Dōitashimashite (どういたしまして) : You're welcome

Ohayō (お早う) : Good morning

Konnichiwa (今日は) : Hello/Good day

Konbanwa (こんばんは) : Good evening

Nicknames

Geta-Bōshi (ゲタ帽子) : Hat-and-Clogs (refers to Kisuke's choice of clothing)

Yagi-Ago (山羊顎) : Goat-chin (refers to Isshin's scruffy beard)

Ichigo (苺) : Strawberry (a play on Ichigo's given name)

Ichi (一) : Shortform for Ichigo (一護)

Tats (竜) : Shortform for Tatsuki (also written as Tatsu)

Suki (好き) : Shortform for Tatsuki (also means to Like)

Hime (姫) : Shortform for Orihime (also means Princess)

Yori (ヨリ) : Shortform for Yoruichi

Soul Society

Sōtaichō (総隊長) : Head Captain (also written as Sōtaichō)

Taichō (隊長) : Captain (also written as Taichou)

Fuku-Taichō (副隊長) : Vice-Captain / Lieutenant (also written as Fukutaichou)

Kidō (鬼道) : Way of the Demon, the Shinigami Spiritual Arts (also written as Kidou)

Hadō (破道) : Way of Destruction, Spiritual Arts focusing on attack (also written as Hadou)

Bakudō (縛道) : Way of Binding, Spiritual Arts focusing on capture (also written as Bakudou)

Kaidō (回道) : Way of Returning, Spiritual Arts focusing on healing (also written as Kaidou)

Locations

Seireitei (瀞霊廷) : Court of Pure Souls, the Inner District of Soul Society

Rukongai (流魂街) : Wandering Soul City, the Outer Districts of Soul Society

Daireishokairō (大霊書回廊) : Great Spirit Book Gallery, the Repository containing all the Knowledge and History of Soul Society

Shinōreijutsuin (真央霊術院) : Spiritual Arts Academy