Eyes of the Soul

by operation meteor

Passing beyond the veil, Itachi finds himself in an afterlife that is far from the hellfire he'd steeled himself for. With a chance encounter involving a pervy sage, a Flash Goddess and a healer whose angelic appearance hides more than a hint of steel, the bane of the Uchiha Clan finds a chance at a second life... and perhaps redemption. Slow burn. M for language and violence.

20. Chapter 20

Author's Notes: Hello there! Bet you weren't expecting the new chapter to be posted this quickly, were you? Well, here's my first stab at trying to get things back to short chapters. This one's definitely got a lighter mood to it than the previous two, and the title should be more than enough hint as to why.

Not much else to say at the moment. Enjoy!

Chapter Twenty: Meet the Parents

One year later…

140 years before Rukia Kuchiki's arrival in Karakura Town

As the commander of both Squad Two and the Stealth Force, Yoruichi prided herself on knowing the Seireitei like the back of her hand. Such knowledge was essential for espionage, patrol, and, on those rarest of occasions when an active threat was within its walls, assassination. However, even she had never seen the chamber that she found herself in now. It wasn't the same size as, say, the secret underground training room beneath Sōkyoku Hill, although that certainly wasn't for lack of trying. Its smooth tiled floor, soaring walls and flat ceiling were all made from the same material; Sekkiseki, the same kind of stone that comprised the great walls of the Seireitei and those of the Shishinrō within the Senzaikyū. Constructing such a chamber would've been both incredibly labor intensive and ludicrously expensive, but seeing as it was meant to serve as the Head Captain's personal training ground and therefore had to survive the awesome power of both the man himself and his Zanpakutō, nothing less than the absolute best would do.

I suppose I should've expected a room like this to exist beneath Squad One's compound, she mused as she watched Itachi's black blade dance around him while swirling flocks of crimson firebirds filled the air, It's not like the Head Captain can use their normal training courtyard if he truly wants to cut loose. The barracks wouldn't survive that, and neither would his subordinates.

She'd known this day would come, and had frankly been amazed that she'd stalled the Head Captain for as long as she had. Ever since he'd evaluated Itachi following his recovery from the soul fracture all those years ago, the venerable commander had been keen to track the young man's progress. When he'd summoned Yoruichi and her freshly promoted Eleventh Seat, she had expected him to either observe Itachi in Squad One's main courtyard or perhaps take him to one of the Seireitei's wider plazas for this test. Going to a chamber like this had not even crossed Yoruichi's mind, although she certainly appreciated the Head Captain's discretion.

Standing to her right, the old man's brow furrowed as he watched Itachi's performance. "Such tight control, yet with the potential for great destruction… he walks a fine line with his Shikai. I see now why you wanted to give him more time to hone his abilities before letting me observe him, Captain Shihōin."

Yeah, that was totally it, she thought nervously, It had nothing to do whatsoever with wanting to make sure we could keep the Sharingan hidden from you. Nope, nothing of the sort.

She still couldn't believe how lucky she'd gotten with Ukitake, his subordinates, and Isshin; none of them had spoken so much as a peep about Itachi and Shisui's special eyes. Out of both gratitude and discipline, they'd all kept their mouths shut, and the same went for all of the Squad Two members that had been present too.

"I know what the Central Forty-Six would do if they learned of the Uchiha Clan's gift," Ukitake had said during a private meeting following their victory celebration, "Detainment would be the least of Itachi and Shisui's worries. I can understand why the judges might have concerns about their abilities, but I also know that none of us would've survived that fight without them. The Thirteen Court Guard Squads needs them, and Squad Thirteen will not serve them up to the Central Forty-Six after what they've done for us today. We'll keep their secrets, Yoruichi. You have my word on that."

"Mine as well," Isshin added, "We owe them both big, and I'm not about to sell them out. Besides, I wouldn't be able to have another sparring match with Itachi if he got thrown in prison!"

Ukitake smiled. "Our mission was to take out the third wraith, not investigate hidden native tribes or people with strange eyes! The way I see it, we've accomplished our objective. The wraith has been destroyed, and that's all we really came out here to do. Anything beyond that wouldn't really be relevant to the mission, so why overburden the report with needless extra details?"

Isane had proven to be remarkably agreeable on the matter as well, and Yoruichi suspected that part of that might have had to do with her friendship with Jiraiya. She must have known that Itachi was friends with him and likely was willing to help out as a favor to him. As for Citlalli, the shaman had given his word not to speak of what he'd seen. Besides, as the man himself had pointed out, he and his tribe lived so far off the beaten path that it wasn't like word of the Sharingan could spread far anyway. Silence was also owed from the Soul Reapers to the shaman and his people; the last thing the surviving tribes needed was the Central Forty-Six catching wind of them and launching an investigation. It was the kind of agreement that Yoruichi was well-versed in, and thankfully Ukitake and his subordinates had been willing to play along as well. With their peace returned, Yoruichi hoped that the shaman and his surviving people were doing better now; the Kurai Hebi Jungle was healing nicely from what she'd heard since the mission, but that didn't change the fact that the native villages had been hit hard by the wraith and its minions.

Yoruichi couldn't afford to worry about that now, though; the Head Captain was waiting for a response from her. "I appreciate you being so understanding on the matter, Head Captain. It's been a long road for Itachi, but I'll say he's coming along quite nicely."

Yamamoto nodded. "Yes, he certainly is. He's earned his promotion, but I do have to wonder if Eleventh Seat is really appropriate for him. The power he's displaying here is at least a few notches higher than that."

Yoruichi smiled; if this was where the old man's concerns lay, then things were going better than she'd hoped for. "I agree. You know how it is with unit bureaucracy, though. Only so many promotional slots available even after reshuffling personnel. Once I get another chance, he'll be bumped up again in short order."

She knew that Itachi didn't mind his current position. The young man's ambitions were more directed towards his personal life and coming to terms with his past rather than climbing the ranks of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads. Yoruichi felt he deserved better, but was willing to let him move along at his own pace.

"His mother will appreciate that," Yamamoto replied, "I imagine she'll make a similarly quick ascension once she graduates, at least if what I saw from her yesterday was any indication."

Yoruichi raised an eyebrow; this was news to her. "You were at the Academy yesterday, sir?"

Yamamoto nodded. "I was giving a guest lecture in the advanced track's Zanjutsu course. Miss Uchiha performed quite well in that day's drills, along with the challenge matches. It seems martial prowess runs in the family."

You have no idea…

She turned her gaze back towards her Eleventh Seat, smiling again. "I'm sure Itachi will be honored to learn that his mother garnered such praise from you, Head Captain."

"She has earned it," said the old man, "as has he."

Yoruichi wouldn't argue with her boss on that point. Out in the middle of the chamber, Itachi went into a series of flowing and swift slashes. A river of blood red fiery crows was constantly streaming forth from his black blade; there had to be nearly fifty thousand airborne right now, and that was just a fraction of what Itachi was capable of. He made a brief spiraling motion with his left hand, and the firebirds quickly formed themselves into seven blazing pillars that began circling around Itachi.

Yamamoto nodded in approval. "An elegant display. Perhaps he should perform at one of the Seireitei's various festivals. I imagine his Shikai would be quite a popular one."

"I'm sure it would, sir," Yoruichi concurred, "However, Squad Two's normally not in the habit of showing off our prized techniques. You know how we operate; keep your sharpest blades hidden until you're ready to plunge them into your target's back."

"Yes, that is true," said Yamamoto, "In any case, I believe I've seen enough. Eleventh Seat Uchiha, stand down!"

Itachi immediately dispelled the pillars of fire and returned his sword to its sealed state. Sheathing the blade, he then approached Yoruichi and Yamamoto.

"Is something the matter, Head Captain?" Itachi asked.

Yamamoto shook his head. "Not at all. What you've shown me today will suffice as a demonstration of your power. Hold your head high, Eleventh Seat Uchiha; you've done quite well. The Thirteen Court Guard Squads are most fortunate indeed to have you in their ranks."

Itachi inclined his head. "Thank you, Head Captain."

"Do you require anything further from either of us, sir?" asked Yoruichi.

The Head Captain shook his head. "No, this is more than enough. I will continue to expect nothing less than the best from the two of you, so remember to keep sharpening your skills. You are both dismissed."

The old man led the two of them from the chamber and up to the main Squad One administrative complex. Yoruichi took over from there, with her and Itachi parting ways with the Head Captain and heading out into a pleasantly warm early summer afternoon.

"We were down there for longer than I thought," Itachi noted as he shielded his eyes, needing a moment to readjust to the sun's light, "Sorry for taking up so much of your time."

Yoruichi smiled and shook her head. "Hey, you've got nothing to apologize for. I'm always happy to show off your skills to the Head Captain. Makes us both look good!"

"I suppose you're right," Itachi replied as the two of them strolled through the streets of the Seireitei, "Do you think the Head Captain suspects anything?"

"Doubt it," said Yoruichi, "You put on a good show, and that's what he was looking for. He'll still be keeping an eye on your progress, but at this point I think you're merely a curiosity for him more than anything else. You shouldn't be facing any scrutiny like this again until you come up for Lieutenant and Captain."

"What makes you think that I desire either of those positions?" asked Itachi.

Yoruichi grinned. "With the way your power's growing, it's only a matter of time! Hell, I'd say you're already at least the equal of most Lieutenants in the Thirteen Court Guard Squads. If you took the exam today, you'd pass with flying colors."

Itachi gave her a small smile as the breeze ruffled his hair. "I appreciate the vote of confidence. That being said, a major leadership position like that… I don't know if it would be a good fit."

Yoruichi gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "I'm not saying you have to go for it. I know that you've got different priorities than most Soul Reapers. Given your unique circumstances, that's natural. I won't push you into any role that you're not comfortable with, Itachi. I just want you to be mindful of such possibilities, okay?"

"I will," he said, his smile taking on a somewhat wistful tone as he looked up at the sky, "You know, there was a time when I thought differently… when I believed that I could eventually take on the highest office in the land."

Yoruichi was curious. "You mean back in the Leaf Village, right?"

"Yes," Itachi confirmed, "When I was very young, before I got sucked into the dark maelstrom that was the conflict between the Uchiha Clan and the Leaf Village leadership… I dreamed of being the first Uchiha to become Hokage."

Yoruichi whistled. "Talk about shooting for the stars! That's some lofty ambition, although in your case I think it's perfect. You would've been a great Hokage."

Itachi closed his eyes for a moment, and when he opened them again Yoruichi saw that he looked haunted. "I once believed that, but in hindsight, with the choices I made… with the clan, with Sasuke… to tell you the truth, I don't really trust myself to be in a position of power. So many of my decisions were driven by ego, by the belief that I alone knew what was best..."

Yoruichi shook her head. "Itachi, you were in an impossible situation. Yes, you made mistakes, but you were doing the best you could in unbelievably harsh circumstances. That's more than most can say."

"Maybe so," Itachi replied, "but leaders are called upon to make difficult decisions in harsh circumstances. In such trying times, a true leader should be someone who knows that they can turn to others for counsel, who can trust others and place their faith in them. That was a lesson I didn't learn until it was far too late."

"But you did eventually learn it," Yoruichi reminded him, "It might be too late to apply such lessons to your old life, but it's not in this one. From what you've told me and what I've seen since getting to know you, I'd say you've come a long way from who you once were. You're compassionate, empathetic, experienced, wise; the Soul Society could use someone like you in a position of authority."

She was relieved to see a small smile appear on his face as he looked at her. "Perhaps… if I could stop others from going down the road that I did… I might be able to do some good."

"I think you could," said Yoruichi as they descended a broad flight of marble stairs, "Tell me, why did you want to become Hokage when you were young?"

"It was during my Shinobi Academy days," Itachi answered, "After the attack of the Nine Tailed Fox, children of the Uchiha Clan were looked upon with suspicion by some of our classmates. With my talents, I was more than capable of rising above it and distinguishing myself. I didn't quite understand it all at the time, but I could sense that there was a rift growing between the Uchiha Clan and the Leaf Village. I wanted to bridge that divide, and I believed that by becoming the first Uchiha Hokage I could go a long way towards accomplishing that. There was also another reason… one rooted in what I had seen before coming to the Academy."

Yoruichi had a feeling she knew where this was going. "You mean when your father took you to that battlefield, right?"

Itachi nodded. "Yes. In my youthful naivete, I wanted to become someone who could stop all fighting and bring peace to the world. The way I saw it, becoming Hokage would give me the power to change the world and eventually end such petty conflicts. Of course, reality wound up being much more complicated than that. It was a child's foolish dream, nothing more."

Yoruichi shook her head. "Maybe it was a child's dream, but not a foolish one. I'd call it a hopeful one, and that's something that people could use more of."

She watched as Itachi looked out over the Seireitei, and she saw his gaze settle on Shin'ō Academy. "Hope… it was something that I had little of towards the end of my first life, at least not for myself. What hope I had in those final days, I ultimately placed it in Sasuke and Naruto. Here in the Soul Society, though… well, there's far more cause for hope within the walls of the Seireitei these days than I would have imagined when I first came here."

Yoruichi smiled and took his hand. "Why don't we go pay that hope a visit? It's been a while since you and I have seen her together, after all."

"Do you have time?" asked Itachi.

"For you and your mother, I'll always make time," she replied.

He smiled. "Well, then, what are we waiting for? Afternoon classes should be getting out soon, so if we hurry we can catch her before she starts her homework."

Yoruichi winked. "Try to keep up, if you can!"

Itachi chuckled. "With the Flash Goddess? I'll give it my best shot."

And with that, the two of them became little more than dark blurs against the afternoon sunlight.

….

Itachi took a deep breath, savoring the scent of the Academy's courtyard. He always enjoyed coming back here, basking in the memory of his student days with Jiraiya and Visaelya. The various plants had been freshly watered, the grass and trees were as meticulously trimmed as ever, and students were milling about freely as they relished in their liberation from the last of the day's classes.

Looking back on his time here, he probably hadn't needed the full six years to learn all that was necessary to pass the final exams. However, Itachi had wanted to make the most of his student days in his second life, unlike how he'd blitzed through the Leaf Village's Academy at lightning speed during his first one. Perhaps the lessons that Shinobi children were supposed to learn hadn't been particularly challenging to him, but upon recent reflection Itachi had begun to realize just what he'd missed out on. Apart from Izumi, he'd made no real friends in his brief time at the Shinobi Academy; Shisui had already been an active Shinobi at that time, and Sasuke was still far too young to attend. Even those who would become the members of his first team as a Genin hadn't been true friends, but simply acquaintances. Here at Shin'ō Academy, though, he'd taken things at a slower pace, and it had more than paid off.

The bonds I made with Jiraiya and Visaelya wouldn't be what they are now if I'd rushed through here like I had in the past, he thought, and my second life would be less bright for it. Taking the gradual and scenic route, as it were, was definitely the right choice.

To his right, Yoruichi gave him a friendly nudge with her elbow. "Getting lost down memory lane?"

"A little bit," Itachi conceded as he opened his eyes, "This place… I didn't realize it at the time, but my days here… they were fun. Perhaps the first real fun I'd truly experienced since… well, I'm sure you can guess."

Yoruichi nodded. "I've got a pretty good idea. The Academy can have that effect on people, and I'm glad you're one of them. After all you went through, you deserved the chance to loosen up and enjoy yourself a bit."

"So does my mother," he replied as he looked around, "and it seems she's doing so. Hard to believe she's getting into her fourth year here now…"

Yoruichi smiled. "It'll be her graduation day before you know it. I'll have to start thinking up a good sales pitch to get her into Squad Two! Can't let Shunsui or Jūshiro swipe her out from under me."

"I don't think you'll have anything to worry about there," said Itachi, "Every time I've spoken to her, she's made it clear what her preference is."

"Never underestimate how persuasive the other Captains can be when they put their minds to it," Yoruichi argued, "She's currently the top performer of her year, and I know at least a few colleagues who have their eyes on her. The only real competition she had was Kaien Shiba, but he was in and out of here in almost no time at all."

"Two years, if I recall correctly," Itachi mused aloud, "He caused quite the stir with his pace of advancement."

"He was always going to hit the ground running," said Yoruichi, "The Shiba Clan pulled out all the stops in prepping him. Even so, getting through here so quickly was really something else; he took everyone by surprise, not just the Academy faculty. Ukitake did a great job in snagging him given just how fierce the competition was. Mikoto might not garner that kind of attention when her class's turn at the recruitment exhibition rolls around, but she'll still be a hot commodity!"

That was when Itachi spotted her walking across the courtyard, surrounded by several other female students. "It seems she already is."

Yoruichi grinned as she caught sight of Mikoto. "She's as popular with the ladies as her eldest son! Must run in the family. Well, shall we?"

Itachi nodded, and the two of them crossed the courtyard to intercept her. As they did so, Itachi's eyes zeroed in on the Zanpakutō tied to his mother's hips. The weapon had changed since he'd last seen it; it was slightly shorter than the average Soul Reaper's sword, with dark purple wrapping on the handle and a black guard.

Yoruichi picked up on it too. "Well, now… when did that happen?"

"Let's find out," said Itachi.

His mother's eyes widened as she caught sight of them, and a series of gasps and giggles rippled through the young ladies around her. Itachi found it rather amusing as he realized that he wasn't sure if the girls were more distracted by his presence or that of Yoruichi.

Good thing we didn't bring Jiraiya along for this, he mused, I can already picture the trouble he'd be getting himself into here…

Stepping forward from her companions, Mikoto wasted no time in embracing her son. "Itachi, it's so good to see you again! I had no idea you'd be coming here today!"

He smiled as he gently returned her embrace. "It's good to see you too, Mother."

"Hey, Mikoto!" Yoruichi chirped, "How've you been?"

"Yoruichi!" Mikoto cheered, surprising both Itachi and her friends by moving to hug Squad Two's Captain, "Oh, it's been far too long!"

Her friends gasped, and for a moment Itachi feared his mother might have overstepped her bounds, but Yoruichi readily accepted the embrace; she didn't seem the least bit bothered by it. "It really has. You seem to be doing well."

Mikoto was beaming as she released her. "I'm even better now that the two of you are here. Why don't we go to the dining hall for a quick bite? Afternoon classes always leave me so hungry once they're through."

Yoruichi nodded. "I know the feeling. What do you say, Itachi? Bet you could use something to eat after the show you put on for the Head Captain."

"A meal would be nice," Itachi conceded.

After bidding her companions farewell, Mikoto led the two of them to the dining hall. At this time of day, Itachi expected it to be fairly busy, and he wasn't disappointed; some things never changed. The three of them dished up on rice bowls, choice meats and tea before grabbing a table off in one of the corners for a bit of privacy.

"What's this I hear about you performing for the Head Captain?" Mikoto asked as they dug into their meals.

"The Head Captain's been interested in Itachi's progress ever since his Academy days," Yoruichi explained, "Today Itachi got to show him just how far he's come."

Mikoto gave Itachi a hopeful smile. "How'd it go?"

"Quite well, I believe," Itachi replied.

Yoruichi smirked. "He's being modest, as usual. I might not be particularly close with the old man, but I can usually get a pretty good read on him these days. He was impressed, Itachi. That's no mean feat."

"That's wonderful!" Mikoto cheered, "I'd expect nothing less from you, Itachi. What did he want to see from you?"

"My Shikai," Itachi answered, "and I was able to deliver."

Mikoto looked back and forth between Itachi and Yoruichi. "And he doesn't know about…?"

"Your family's unique gifts?" Yoruichi finished for her, "No, not at all. We've kept him firmly in the dark. Hasn't been easy, but it's for the best."

Mikoto nodded. "I agree. Our clan's reputation back when we were alive… it was one of both awe and fear. The power of our bloodline inspired as much envy as it did praise, and the former became dominant during our final years. If we can keep word from spreading in our new life, I would infinitely prefer that."

"We're doing our best to keep it under wraps," said Itachi, "We've had a few close calls, but so far it's all held together."

"We've got quite a few people to thank for that," Yoruichi noted, "Isshin and Ukitake in particular. I was more worried about them than anyone else that was involved in the expedition last year, but they've remained true to their word. We owe them."

Mikoto looked concerned. "Will they exploit that for leverage?"

Itachi shook his head. "Neither strike me as the type to do something like that. I believe our secrets are safe with them."

Yoruichi gave them both a reassuring smile. "They will be. Trust me."

Mikoto took a deep breath before nodding. "Very well, then."

Itachi gave her a closer look; his mother appeared somewhat distracted. "Is something the matter?"

Mikoto's eyes widened slightly. "Oh… it's nothing major. I really don't want to trouble either of you with it…"

Yoruichi shook her head. "Mikoto, we're both here because we want to make sure you're doing all right. If something's wrong, tell us so we can help."

"Please, Mother," said Itachi.

Mikoto hesitated a moment before relenting. "Okay. It's got something to do with my sword."

She beat us both to the punch, thought Itachi as his mother lifted her Zanpakutō, I guess Yoruichi and I will get our answer sooner rather than later.

"It's changed since the last time I saw it," Yoruichi noted as she studied the weapon, "When did that happen?"

"A few days ago," Mikoto answered, "I had this strange dream one night. One moment, I was just lying in bed, and the next I was in the most unusual of places."

Itachi and Yoruichi traded looks, and he suspected they both knew where this was going. "What kind of place was it?"

"It was a temple," Mikoto replied, closing her eyes for a moment as she recalled the dream, "It reminded me of the old Naka Shrine in the Leaf Village. The door was open, so I walked in, and the main hall was lit by candles. They all had these odd violet flames. There was a bronze statue at the far end… I think it was of a woman meditating. The left half of it looked burned, and its eyes were glowing with the same light as the candles. That wasn't the most unusual part, though."

Yoruichi leaned forward slightly. "What was?"

"There was a woman standing in front of the statue," Mikoto explained, "She was pale, almost deathly so. Black hair, crimson eyes… I almost thought she had the Sharingan, but there was no tomoe in them. She wore a black kimono with a purple flower pattern, and she was holding a strange weapon. It was a two-pronged spear; when I looked through a weapons book in the library the following day, I learned that it's called a bident. The weapon was black, except for a round ruby embedded in the shaft just below the blades, and there were violet flames dancing along the edges. It was oddly beautiful, almost hypnotic. For all I know, I could've been staring at it for hours."

"Did the woman say anything?" asked Itachi.

Mikoto's brow furrowed in thought. "I think she tried to. I saw her lips move, but I couldn't hear anything. When I tried to lip read, there was this strange distortion in the air… a ripple of some sort, just enough to prevent me from making out what she was saying. After a while, I woke up in a sweat. I was back in my room, like the whole thing had never happened. Eventually, I was able to go back to sleep. I actually didn't notice until the following morning that my Zanpakutō had changed."

Yoruichi scratched her chin. "Have you had the dream again since then?"

Mikoto nodded. "Last night. I don't think it lasted for quite as long, but it was still the same shrine and woman. Have either of you ever experienced anything like this?"

Itachi nodded. "Yes. Mother, this might come as a shock to you, but what you saw wasn't a dream. I believe you were taken to your inner world."

Mikoto's eyes widened in shock. "Really? But… I thought you had to be practicing Jinzen in order to transport yourself to your inner world!"

Yoruichi shook her head. "Not quite. Jinzen is the most effective way to communicate with the spirit of your Zanpakutō and reliably enter your inner world. For budding Soul Reapers, it's not uncommon for one's first experience with their inner world to actually come while they're asleep. Our Zanpakutō find it easier to pull us in when we're in that unguarded state, and that's often where our first introduction with them will take place."

"Your power must be growing faster than either of us had anticipated if you're already entering your inner world," said Itachi, "I entered mine quickly due to the soul fracture I experienced when the Edo Tensei was cast, so I didn't get the introduction through sleep that many Soul Reapers do."

Yoruichi smiled. "This may sound strange, Mikoto, but what you experienced was both natural and an encouraging sign. Very encouraging, in fact. Most Soul Reapers don't start experiencing such dreams until well after they've graduated from the Academy. You're only getting into your fourth year, yet you're already having them. That's remarkable."

Mikoto looked down and shuddered. "I'm not so sure… it felt so eerie, especially since I wasn't controlling it."

"That'll change with time," Itachi reassured her, "You'll get used to it, perhaps even come to look forward to it. Make sure to carefully observe as much of your inner world as you can whenever you go there. You'll find that even the smallest of details can have meaning, especially since they tend to reflect our current state of being in some form or another."

"It's natural to be nervous about this," said Yoruichi, "After all, you're being pulled into a world that's completely alien from what you're used to. In time, though, you'll find your inner world to be a comforting place. After all, it's part of you, just as much as the spirit of your Zanpakutō is."

Mikoto smiled. "All right, then. Thank you, both of you. I wish I'd sought you out rather than wait to talk about this. It's been bothering me ever since that first night."

Yoruichi nodded. "If you ever have any questions, feel free to come by the Squad Two barracks. Students aren't usually allowed such freedom of movement within the Seireitei, but exceptions can be made. I'll let my subordinates know that you're welcome at our facilities. If any Soul Reapers try to stop you, just tell them I gave you permission. That should be more than enough to get them off your back."

Mikoto nodded. "I appreciate that. Still, I don't want to be an imposition on either of you. You're both active-duty Soul Reapers, after all; you have more important things to do than be on call for my every little concern."

Itachi shook his head. "You'll never be an imposition, Mother."

With that, the mood lightened, and the three of them spent the rest of their meal together engaging in idle chit-chat. By the time Itachi and Yoruichi said their farewells to Mikoto and started heading back towards the Squad Two barracks, the late afternoon sun was slowly beginning its westward descent.

"I'm glad we stopped by there," said Yoruichi, "She really needed someone to talk to."

Itachi sighed. "I should be better about visiting more often. I let far too much time pass as it was."

Yoruichi put her hand on his shoulder. "Hey, you're a busy young man with a lot going on in his life. Your mother gets that, and she knows that you try to make time for her whenever you can. Don't go beating yourself up about this, okay? I know it's the last thing that Mikoto would want."

Itachi nodded and smiled. "You're right. Thanks for making the time for this today. Seeing her was definitely something I needed."

"Anytime," she replied, "I know you feel like you need to make things up to her after what happened with your family in your previous life. If there's anything I can do to help with that, don't hesitate to ask."

"You've done more than enough for us already," said Itachi, "We're in your debt."

Yoruichi shook her head. "There's no debt as far as I'm concerned here. Now, what do you say we head home? We've been gone for most of the day; Lieutenant Ōmaeda might start getting ideas if I leave Squad Two unattended for too much longer."

Itachi chuckled. "Can't have that, can we? His head's big enough as it is."

And with that, the two of them took off, racing across the rooftops of the Seireitei as a pair of black blurs.

….

A few weeks later…

There was a loud 'bang', and the cavern around her shuddered as Yoruichi made her way through the entrance tunnel into the secret training ground. Given that Kisuke was running one of his tests down here and had Itachi helping him again, she didn't take the shaking to be a good sign. The tremors subsided after only a few seconds, but the clouds of gray smoke up ahead didn't bode well.

Yoruichi picked up the pace, and as she entered the training ground, she pulled out her Zanpakutō. "Hadō 58: Tehran!"

The blade spun in the air before her, and a great spiraling gust blew forth a moment later. That served to disperse a good deal of the smoke, enough to at least clear a path for Yoruichi. There was still plenty of it in the training ground, but now she could at least make out two silhouettes.

"Okay, sound off!" she heard Kisuke shout, "Itachi, you still alive?"

"Yes," her Eleventh Seat replied in between coughs, and she saw one of the silhouettes start leaning against a rocky outcropping, "You in one piece?"

"Let's see," said the Third Seat, and the other silhouette began patting itself over, "Arms? Check. Legs? Check. Fingers? Check. Family jewels? Check!"

As the smoke cleared out more, she saw Itachi make his way over towards Kisuke. "Well, I think we can call that test a failure."

"Sounds about right," Kisuke confirmed.

Enough of the smoke had now dissipated that Yoruichi could see her two subordinates fully, and suddenly it took every ounce of her composure to keep from keeling over in laughter. Both men's faces were covered in soot, and their hair was frazzled by the earlier blast.

Oh, Soi-Fon would've gotten a kick out of this!

Kisuke looked around. "I'm not seeing our prototype anywhere… Itachi, you got anything?"

Yoruichi saw Itachi pick up a few tattered scraps of white cloth off the ground and pass it to Kisuke. "I think that's about all that's left of it."

Kisuke sighed. "That's what I was afraid of. Where did we go wrong?"

"It might have been the shape," Itachi suggested, "When I was watching it with my Sharingan, the spirit energy was writhing, like it wanted to take a form that we weren't allowing it to do so. We might need something more complex than a sphere to properly channel the power that's going through it. Our chosen material might be a bit too flimsy as well. I know flexibility is important, but we might need something a bit sturdier than what we're currently using."

"Back to the drawing board, then," said Kisuke, "I'll have some new sketches worked up by tomorrow. Thanks for the help again."

Itachi nodded. "Anytime. You know where to find me when you're ready to test the next prototype."

It was only then that the two of them caught sight of Yoruichi, with Kisuke giving her a sheepish smile. "Oh… hey there."

Yoruichi grinned. "You boys having fun?"

"Not the word I'd use for it," said Itachi.

Kisuke smiled. "Hey, don't be like that! Having you around is making this way more entertaining than it would be if I was working on this project by myself."

"I'm not here for your amusement," Itachi shot back.

Kisuke held up his hands in surrender. "I know, don't worry! Look, the whole thing just blew up in our faces, literally. That wasn't what you came here for, so I understand if you're a bit miffed right now. I'll give you a bit of time to recover before asking for your help with the next experiment. Catch you later."

As Kisuke left the training ground, Yoruichi approached Itachi. Her Eleventh Seat tried to dust himself off, but it wasn't doing much good. His robes were going to need a good washing, and so was he.

She shook her head in amusement. "What did he drag you into this time?"

"Same thing as last time," Itachi replied, "His Zanpakutō spirit forced materialization scheme. The concept is proving to be rather difficult to put into practice."

She looked him over. "You sure you're okay? That felt like a pretty powerful blast earlier."

"I've dealt with worse," said Itachi, "I just hope we didn't give ourselves away. I don't think this is the kind of research that the Central Forty-Six would look to highly upon."

Yoruichi shrugged. "I felt some shaking, but anyone outside will probably brush it off as an earthquake."

"Earthquakes in the afterlife," Itachi muttered, "I still can't believe something like that actually happens."

"Hey, the Soul Society's weird," Yoruichi pointed out, "You've been around here long enough to get a good taste of that by now."

She was relieved to see him smirk. "I suppose I have. So, what brings you here? Did you want to spar, or were you just checking to make sure Kisuke didn't accidentally kill me?"

Yoruichi smiled. "Neither. I just got a letter from my mother."

"Is she doing well?" asked Itachi.

"Very much so," Yoruichi answered, "In fact, next week's her birthday."

Itachi gave her a small smile. "Is that so? Please, give her my congratulations."

"You can do that yourself," said Yoruichi, "Her letter was also an invitation, and not just for me; she wants to meet this Uchiha that I've mentioned to her in our recent correspondences, and I don't mean Shisui."

It wasn't often that she saw Itachi look genuinely surprised, but he certainly did so now. "She actually wants me to attend?"

Yoruichi nodded. "Yup! It's not just her, either; my father's been asking about you lately, too. They're both quite keen on meeting you, and this party's the perfect occasion to do so."

Itachi inclined his head. "I'm honored by the attention. If it's what they wish, then I shall gladly join the festivities."

Yoruichi playfully punched him on the shoulder. "Hey, don't go all stiff on me like that! You know I'm not like most nobles, and the same goes for my parents. I mean, they're not quite as laid back as me, but they're still pretty relaxed compared to most of the aristocracy. Politeness is fine, but don't let it stifle who you are. I want to do more than just introduce you to them, Itachi; I want them to get to know you. The real you, not a formal and rigid version of you."

Itachi hesitated. "The real me… Yoruichi, I don't think that's wise."

Her expression softened as she realized what he meant. "Itachi, I didn't mean it like that. I'm not going to ask you to tell them all about your past. They're going to have questions, sure, but they won't be about your previous life. Remember, for polite society in the Seireitei, asking about someone's past life is a taboo. What happened with your clan isn't going to come up here, I can promise you that. I just want you to show them the kind and intelligent young man that I've gotten to know, both on and off duty."

She felt better when she saw him smile again. "Oh, of course… I should've guessed as much. In that case, I'll do my best… although I'd be lying if I said the prospect of such conversation with your parents didn't make me nervous."

Yoruichi winked. "I'm pretty sure that's how all boys are supposed to feel when a girl brings them home to meet her family!"

Itachi chuckled. "I suppose so. It's not something that I've ever experienced for myself. First time for everything, I guess."

She gave him a confident smile. "You're going to do just fine, trust me. I know my parents pretty well, and when they see that you're the guy I'm bringing home, they'll probably be more relieved than anything else. Just keep calm and don't let all the aristocratic shenanigans intimidate you, and you'll pass with flying colors!"

Itachi nodded. "I'll keep that in mind. Who else is coming? Given your mother's position in the nobility, I imagine it'll be quite the gathering."

"It'll be a good crowd, but probably not the size that you're thinking of," Yoruichi replied, "For some Great Noble Houses, an important family member's birthday is a chance to show off their wealth, so they'll invite everyone that they've got so much as the slightest connection to. That includes rivals; got to rub their own affluence and power in the faces of their social adversaries, after all. My parents don't really feel the need to play that game, though. There will be more than a few other nobles in attendance, especially from the Shiba Clan given our close ties with them, but the rest will be a more informal and familiar bunch. Close friends and allies, valued retainers and servants; that sort of gathering."

"I see," said Itachi, "Would I be wrong in assuming that would include other Soul Reapers?"

Yoruichi smiled. "Right on the money! Soi-Fon's naturally going to be there, both as a family friend and my bodyguard, and she won't be the only one. Kisuke comes every year he's able to, and so does Isshin. Tessai will be attending as well, and there'll probably be a few more familiar faces in the crowd."

"Do they attend as Soul Reapers, or in another capacity?" asked Itachi.

Yoruichi smirked. "Is that your way of asking if you're going to have to dress up for the occasion?"

"Pretty much," Itachi confessed, "Outside of my Soul Reaper robes, my wardrobe is rather sparse."

"I figured that would be the case," said Yoruichi, "Since this is a party hosted by a Great Noble House, you definitely will be expected to wear something that's fitting for such festivities. Don't worry, I'll get you taken care of on that end. The Seireitei has more than enough shops dedicated to fine clothing; the nobility's their biggest source of revenue, after all. You'll be dressed to kill by the time the party rolls around, and I'll pay for it."

Itachi shook his head. "You don't have to do that. I'm sure I can find something that's within my price range."

Yoruichi grinned. "Oh, no, I insist! I've got a few different looks I want to try out on you, and I know just the places to go for them. You're not getting out of this one, Itachi. Besides, even if I wasn't the heiress of the Shihōin Clan, I'm still a Captain; my income's more than enough to cover a bit of high-end fashion shopping."

Itachi nodded. "Very well, then. Is there anything else I should be aware of? Any customs or manners I should practice before the occasion?"

"Only that you'd better come to the party with an empty stomach," Yoruichi suggested, "Trust me; you certainly won't leave with one. If there's one thing Great Noble Houses are good at, it's giving their guests the best food in the Soul Society, and I'd hate for you to miss out on it!"

….

One week later…

Strictly speaking, this wasn't the first time Itachi had seen the Shihōin Clan's Seireitei estate. He'd patrolled the heart of the Soul Society enough times that he could point it out as a landmark, just like he could the residences of the other Great Noble Houses. Still, there was a difference between using it as a point of reference for navigation versus actually visiting it, and it was a much grander structure when viewed up close.

Like the bulk of the dwellings within the Seireitei, the estate's architecture was predominantly in the East Asia style. The outer wall had a thick stone base, but as it rose up the stones disappeared, replaced by a sheet of white polished so that it gleamed even in the setting sun, and topped with the traditional sloped and curving tiles. Beyond that was a complex of structures dominated by the main residence, a four-story mansion that towered over the neighboring buildings by a considerable margin. Jade statues of cats featured prominently at the ends of the roofs, and banners displaying the family crest hung from walls and several scattered posts. The design of the clan's emblem was one that Itachi actually rather liked; an outer hexagon encasing four five pointed stars that in turn surrounded a droplet falling upon a crescent moon. It was elaborate, but not overly so; grand and stylish, but not to the point of arrogance and pretentiousness.

The sounds of cheerful conversation and laughter echoed over the walls, and Itachi turned to Yoruichi. "We're not late, are we?"

To his right, Yoruichi shook her head. "Not even close. It's typical for many guests to try and arrive as early as possible in order to curry favor with the hosts at these parties. The typical aristocratic hobnobbing and the like. That's not expected from us, so we're fine showing up now."

To his left, Kisuke gave him a pat on the shoulder. "Still nervous, Itachi? Relax, Yoruichi's parents don't bite!"

Soi-Fon rolled her eyes. "Of course, they don't. That's hardly behavior befitting of nobles!"

Yoruichi giggled. "Sometimes, I wonder if we really fit that mold! We are a bunch of desert cats at heart. Regardless, you've got nothing to worry about, Itachi… especially looking like that!"

Giving himself a look-over, Itachi hoped she was right. They'd spent quite a bit of time before Yoruichi had finally settled on an outfit for him, and he would hate for her efforts to be wasted. It was definitely the fanciest kimono he'd ever worn, and he felt that the dark blue base and black feather pattern was quite fitting for him. His Zanpakutō was tied to the black sash at his hip; even off-duty, Soul Reapers were still expected to keep their weapons handy.

Even so, he actually felt almost underdressed compared to his Captain. For her ensemble, Yoruichi had gone with a yellow kimono with dark vines and leaves running across it. Her hair was held up with a golden comb that shimmered in the crimson light of the setting sun, and her sword hung from the orange sash that topped off the outfit. She looked positively radiant, and Itachi was finding it very hard to keep from staring at her.

By contrast, Kisuke and Soi-Fon had gone with much more subdued looks. Squad Two's Third Seat had contented himself with a simple blood red kimono, rather fitting given the nature of his Zanpakutō. As for Soi-Fon, she'd gone with black robes not too dissimilar from the regular Soul Reaper attire, but with honeybee patterns woven into it. While she seemed more comfortable with her formal wear than Itachi was with his, she still appeared somewhat stiff in it. Doubtlessly she preferred her normal work attire, especially given that it allowed her much greater freedom of movement.

"Well, no sense in putting this off," said Yoruichi as the quartet arrived at the front gate, "Shall we?"

Itachi nodded. "After you."

There was a line of guests waiting to be checked in, but as soon as the guards saw Yoruichi they immediately waved her and her companions through. Being friends with Soul Society's nobility definitely had its perks, although Itachi couldn't help but notice he got more than a few stink-eyes from the guests they were passing by. He didn't let it bother him; the only opinions he was worried about tonight were those of Yoruichi and her parents.

"Kūkaku Shiba was supposed to be handling the entertainment again this year, right?" asked Soi-Fon as they entered a spacious courtyard already brimming with people dressed in a veritable rainbow of fancy kimonos.

Itachi looked skyward and noted the lack of colorful explosions. "Seems a bit quiet for a party that involves her."

"That's because I don't roll out my prized babies until they've got the perfect canvass to display themselves on!" barked a familiar female voice, "Yoruichi, I thought you taught your proteges better than this?"

Yoruichi smiled as the tomboyish daughter of the Shiba Clan separated herself from the crowd and came to greet them. "Kūkaku! You're looking good tonight!"

She might've been out here for a job, but the Soul Society's legendary pyrotechnical maniac had apparently decided to up her wardrobe game for the occasion. She was adorned with a dark blue kimono that, appropriately enough, had red and purple firework patterns embroidered in it. It was a surprisingly elegant look for her, but one that she pulled off quite well. Kūkaku might have left the noble lifestyle behind her, but she could clearly still dress with the best of them when she put her mind to it.

"So are you," the Shiba Clan's wayward daughter replied as the two friends embraced, "Haven't seen you dressed up like this in a while!"

As they separated, Kūkaku looked at Itachi and smirked. "You better appreciate it, boy; she went the extra mile for you!"

Much to Itachi's surprise, he caught just the barest hint of a blush flash across Yoruichi's face. "Kūkaku, I was always going to look nice for this occasion, you know that."

Kūkaku grinned. "Hey, who do you think you're trying to fool here? You're forgetting how well I know you! There's looking nice for mom and dad, and then there's looking damn good for a special friend of yours."

Yoruichi winked at Itachi. "Well, maybe! No reason I can't do both, right?"

Now it was Itachi's turn to blush; she did seem to be good at making him do so. "Either way, I'd say you've more than succeeded. You look magnificent tonight."

Yoruichi batted her eyelashes at him. "Aw, thanks! Keep that up, and you might be in for some fireworks of a different sort after the party tonight!"

Soi-Fon looked mortified. "Lady Yoruichi! Please, refrain from that sort of talk in front of a crowd like this."

Yoruichi waved her hand dismissively. "Relax, Soi-Fon. Most of the people here know how I like to talk. They won't make any big deal out of it."

"Speaking of people," said Kisuke, smiling as he scanned the crowd, "I think we've got another friend inbound!"

Following the Third Seat's gaze, Itachi saw Tessai making his way through the throngs of guests to greet them. The bespectacled head of the Kidō Corps might not have been as large as his second-in-command, but he was still of more than sufficient height to tower over the crowd. Rather than his regular black robes and dark blue over-robe that signified his rank of Kidō Corps Commander, Tessai had gone for a surprisingly bright ensemble, with a light green kimono flecked with yellow birds. The contrast with his usual attire almost made Itachi's eyes hurt, and he could not help but question the man's fashion sense.

Yoruichi waved as her old friend approached. "Hey, Tessai! Glad you could make it!"

Tessai smiled as he and Yoruichi exchanged a warm embrace. "Of course, Yoruichi! You know I never miss your mother's birthday if I can help it. Speaking of which, I just had a pleasant chat with Lady Yoriko a couple of minutes ago. She's quite eager to see you."

Yoruichi looked around. "Where… oh, there she is! Guess I'd better go say hello. We'll catch up a bit later, okay?"

Tessai nodded. "I'm looking forward to it. Kisuke, what say you and I hit up the buffet table?"

Kisuke grinned. "Sounds good to me! I've got a few things I want to pick your brain over. Hey, research assistant, want to come?"

Itachi couldn't help but smirk. "Is that all I am to you now?"

Yoruichi grabbed Itachi's arm. "You can talk shop with the boys later! I think it's time for an overdue introduction, wouldn't you say?"

Itachi gave Kisuke and Tessai an apologetic shrug. "You heard her."

Tessai bowed. "So we did. Until next time, Eleventh Seat Uchiha."

"Have fun!" Kisuke teased.

"I need to finish setting things up for the show," said Kūkaku, "Catch you all later!"

As Yoruichi pulled Itachi across the courtyard with Soi-Fon dutifully following, the nervousness from before began to reassert itself. "None of us even brought gifts for your mother… is this truly acceptable?"

Yoruichi rolled her eyes. "Itachi, we've been over this already! Birthday parties for the leading members of a Great Noble House aren't like your typical family traditions. They're not meant for exchanging gifts; in fact, bringing one is usually considered to be a poorly-disguised attempt to curry favor. These parties are really meant as a chance for the family to flaunt their wealth, gather with close friends an get reacquainted with allies, and above all to let off a little steam. We're dressed for the occasion, and we're paying the hosts the respect they're due. That's all that matters."

"Besides, Great Noble Houses have more money than entire countries in most Realms of the Living," Soi-Fon pointed out, "Any material possessions they may desire are trivial to come by. Gifts are for pure sentiment, and there are other occasions where they might be expected. This is not one of them."

Itachi took a deep breath. "If you say so."

Yoruichi smiled and patted him on the back. "Just relax, okay? I know they're going to like you! Remember, just be yourself. Everything else will fall into place from there."

As they reached the eastern end of the courtyard, Itachi saw a man and a woman holding court in a stone square shaded by several cherry trees. Based just on the way the people around them behaved, Itachi knew that they had to be Yoruichi's parents. The guards standing quietly off to the side watching the guests like hawks were also something of a giveaway.

The woman laughed at some joke Itachi didn't hear, and for a moment he could've sworn it was Yoruichi herself laughing; save for a slightly deeper inflection, their voices were almost identical. That wasn't all that Lady Yoriko Shihōin had in common with Squad Two's Captain. While she was about half a head or so taller than her daughter, she still had the same dark skin tone, gleaming amber eyes, and even the dark hair with purple highlights, although hers was worn long and fell well past her shoulders. She had a much more matronly figure, well-curved and muscled, and although she was relaxed Itachi could tell just from the way that she carried herself that she'd be more than capable of holding her own if a fight broke out. Her violet kimono was interwoven with golden fibers embroidered in an interlocking series of flowers, and in the setting sun they glistened with hints of scarlet. Her eyes glimmered as she caught sight of the trio approaching, lighting up like beacons when she saw her daughter.

Politely excusing herself from the people she'd been conversing with, Lady Yoriko strode forth quickly and wasted no time in embracing Yoruichi. "Oh, my dear, it's so good to see you again! Yoruichi, it's been far too long."

"It has," Yoruichi concurred as she warmly returned the hug, "I've missed you. Happy birthday, Mom!"

Yoriko kissed her daughter's brow. "I'm so glad you could make it! I mean, I know you've rarely if ever been forced to miss this party, but you've been so busy ever since Squad Two got saddled with the wraith hunt. Dreadful business, that… I've been so worried about you!"

Yoruichi gave her mother a comforting smile. "Mom, I promise that I'm all right. There's been a few close calls, sure, but I'm still standing. That's thanks in no small part to the guests I've brought with me tonight."

Yoriko's smile grew as her gaze turned to her daughter's bodyguard. "So you've told me in your letters. Soi-Fon, thank you so much for taking care of Yoruichi. I know she can be a handful, and your dedication to her safety means the world to me."

Soi-Fon smiled as she inclined her head. "It's been my honor and pleasure to serve as her companion and protector. I swore years ago that I would defend Lady Yoruichi with everything I have, and I will hold to that oath for as long as I draw breath."

Yoriko nodded. "I've never doubted your devotion, Soi-Fon, but to hear such an affirmation of it is always comforting. Your family has served mine faithfully for generations, and we truly are indebted to you. Should you ever require our aid, you need only ask."

"I'm honored, Lady Yoriko," Soi-Fon replied, "and I will remember your kind words."

"I should hope so," said Yoriko as she turned to Itachi, "Of course, I would be remiss if I did not give credit where it is due. Soi-Fon has protected my daughter for many years, but now it would seem that she has another companion that's just as devoted to the task. Word has reached my ears of your exploits, Eleventh Seat Itachi Uchiha. I must say, I've been wanting to make your acquaintance for quite some time now."

Itachi inclined his head. "It's an honor to meet you, Lady Yoriko. Yoruichi has spoken often of you, and quite fondly at that."

Yoriko raised her eyebrow. "You speak of her in such a familiar manner, and in such company…"

For a moment, Itachi feared he'd made a mistake, but then Yoriko smiled again. "As I would hope for one that my daughter has told me so much about. Hardly a letter of hers goes by without a mention of you, and it's always in a positive light. Seeing you now and having spent time studying your official record, I can understand why. For a new Soul Reaper, your exploits have been quite remarkable, and I believe my daughter owes you her life."

Itachi shook his head. "I wouldn't go that far, Lady Yoriko."

Yoruichi's mother held up her hand. "I can appreciate modesty, Itachi, but do not sell your achievements short. I may not know every detail as to what transpired during Squad Two's encounters with the wraiths, but I'm more than capable of reading between the lines of the official reports. You were present both times when my daughter clashed with the demons of the old kingdom, and she made sure to commend you repeatedly in her writings. You fought as fiercely as Soi-Fon to keep her safe."

Squad Two's Captain smiled at Itachi in pride. "He certainly did."

Yoriko stepped forward, and before Itachi knew what was happening she embraced him. "Thank you, Itachi. She may not be my only child, but Yoruichi… she truly is the light of my world. Knowing that she has someone like you standing by her side in combat, dedicated to protecting and serving her… it helps make my constant fears for her safety at least somewhat easier to manage. The Shihōin Clan will always count you as a friend, Itachi. If you ever need help, please do not hesitate to seek us out."

Itachi gave her a small smile as she released him. "I will. Thank you, Lady Yoriko."

Yoriko regarded him curiously for a moment, looking back and forth between him and Yoruichi. There was a glimmer in her eye, and Itachi wondered just how much she truly knew or suspected regarding the two of them. Almost as soon as it appeared, though, the look vanished, replaced by a motherly smile.

"Well, as much as I'd like to hog you all to myself, I'm hardly the only person here who's eager to see you," she said as she gestured to the man she'd been standing with earlier, "Yoruichi, why don't we go say hello to your father?"

Yoruichi nodded, and Yoriko lead them through the crowd towards her husband. Studying the man, there didn't seem to be too much that Yoruichi had inherited from her. They were about the same height, his build was surprisingly slender, and his skin was only a little bit lighter than hers, but the family resemblance ended there. His black hair was neatly trimmed and included a thin and well-maintained beard and mustache, with just the barest hint of grey to be found. His brown eyes had a jovial light in them, and he was entertaining multiple guests with casual ease. His kimono was quite a unique one, patterned after the setting sun with crimson on the lower portion and gradually shifting to violet in the middle before ending in a deep and dark blue at the top. He definitely wasn't a fighter; not only did he have no weapons on him, but he didn't carry himself like he had anything beyond perhaps a very rudimentary knowledge of combat. A party like this was very much his element, and he was reveling in it.

Almost certainly the scion of another noble house who married into this one, Itachi mused, or perhaps a member of a wealthy merchant family. Definitely civilian in every sense of the word, but that's not a bad thing. Not everyone can be a warrior, and the world would be a grimmer place than it already is if that were the case.

"Satoshi!" Yoriko called as she approached, "Mind if I steal you away for a bit? Our daughter's home, and she's brought some lovely friends to visit us!"

Satoshi Shihōin politely extracted himself from the gaggle of followers he'd amassed and quickly moved to join his wife. The ease and speed at which he'd acquiesced to Yoriko's request was all Itachi needed to know just who held the reins in this family. Clearly, the women in the Shihōin Clan were the leading players, but that wasn't exactly a surprise. Then again, the man was clearly doing more than simply following the commands of his wife if the enthusiastic way he greeted Yoruichi was any indication.

"My dear, you should've said so sooner!" Satoshi exclaimed, giving his wife a quick kiss on the cheek before rushing forward to embrace his daughter, "Oh, Yoruichi, I've missed you! Come here! Who's daddy's favorite little kitty?"

Yoruichi laughed, blushing even as she eagerly returned her father's embrace. "Dad! Oh, what did I expect? I've missed you, too. You been doing okay?"

"As well as I can be, given all the dangerous assignments that have been going your way lately," Satoshi replied as he released her, "I swear, I'm tempted to march right into Squad One's barracks and give the Head Captain a piece of my mind! I appreciate his faith in your abilities, but these missions Squad Two has gone on… two wraiths, for Soul King's sake! Surely other units can handle the rest from here on out. You've done more than your fair share of work in this matter!"

Yoruichi smiled. "I appreciate the concern, Dad, but please, don't go picking a fight with the Head Captain. Even if it's only a verbal one, we all know how that would end; not well for you."

Satoshi reluctantly conceded the point. "Yes, I suppose we do. That doesn't mean I have to like it, or like just how comfortable he is with throwing you into harm's way!"

Yoruichi shook her head. "I can handle myself, Dad. We've been over this. Besides, I've got some great friends jumping into harm's way with me. It's not like I'm taking on these monsters alone."

It was only now that Satoshi turned to greet his daughter's companions. "I suppose you're right about that. Soi-Fon, it's good to see you again. As always, thank you for continuing to look after Yoruichi."

Soi-Fon bowed. "No thanks are necessary, Lord Satoshi, but they are appreciated all the same."

Satoshi smiled as he held his hand out to Itachi. "And I see we have a new face here this evening, although I've heard so much about you from Yoruichi over these past few years that I'd be hard pressed to call you a stranger by now. It's a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance, Itachi Uchiha."

"Likewise," Itachi replied as he shook Satoshi's hand, "I appreciate you and Lady Yoriko inviting me to join your family's celebration this year."

"It's the least we could do," Yoriko chimed in as she gave him an appraising look, "Yoruichi's always gone out of her way to note your abilities and contributions to Squad Two during her correspondences. While she's not above giving praise for her subordinates, it's not often that she has one that she'll bring up so frequently in our private letters. We felt that an introduction was long overdue, and tonight seemed like the perfect occasion for it."

"We'd love it if you joined us at our table tonight," Satoshi added, "In fact, I think now would be a good time for us to dish up and make our way over there. Dear, what do you say?"

Yoriko smiled as she rubbed her stomach. "Yes, I do believe I hear the buffet calling my name. Shall we?"

"Not just yet," said Yoruichi, and Itachi saw her look around, "Where's…?"

Before she could complete her query, a high-pitched voice rang out as a blur darted out from behind one of the trees. "Yoruchi!"

A small human cannonball rushed through the crowd, and Yoruichi's face lit up with joy. "Yūshirō!"

Itachi smiled as he watched Yoruichi kneel and embrace her little brother. She'd only mentioned him relatively recently to Itachi, but despite how little he'd come up in conversation it was clear that Yoruichi was quite fond of him. The newest addition to the Shihōin Clan, Yūshirō appeared to be only about four or five years old, although with the slow pace that souls aged at his true age was difficult to guess. He shared his older sister's dark skin, amber eyes, and dark hair with purple highlights, although his was rather disheveled at the moment. He smiled as Yoruichi picked him up and giggled when she kissed him on the nose.

"Yoruchi!" he cheered, "Yoruchi's home!"

Yoruichi smiled as she shook her head. "Now, Yūshirō, we've been over this! It's Yoru-ee-chi! Come on, try it. I know you can get it right!"

The little boy's brow furrowed in concentration. "Yoru… Yorui… Yoruee…"

Yoruichi nodded. "That's it, you can do it. You're so close!"

Yūshirō grinned. "Yoru…ichi! Yoruichi!"

Yoruichi laughed as she tussled his hair. "There you go! You really are growing up, aren't you?"

A servant girl ran out from behind the trees, bowing before Yoruichi's mother. "Forgive me, Lady Yoriko! I looked away only so I could grab a cup of water for him, but when I turned around…"

Yoriko gave her a reassuring smile. "It's quite all right, my dear. No harm done. Besides, Yūshirō's been so eager to see his big sister, so you were never going to contain him for long!"

"Yoruichi! Yoruichi!" Yūshirō chanted, quite pleased with himself at finally getting his big sister's name right.

Itachi smiled as he watched the two of them. Not surprisingly, his mind flashed back to the innocent days of his youth, when little Sasuke had just entered his life. With just how messed up his relationship with his little brother had become, seeing Yoruichi play with her sibling was a most welcome sight.

Perhaps they'll meet someday, he mused, A day many years from now… I would like to see that.

He was so distracted by the thought that he almost didn't notice when Yoruichi turned so she and her little brother were facing Itachi and Soi-Fon. "Yūshirō, I brought some friends. Recognize one of them?"

The boy's eyes lit up when he saw his sister's bodyguard. "So Fo! So Fo came to play!"

A rare laugh escaped from Soi-Fon's lips. "It's Soi-Fon, Lord Yūshirō! You still need a little practice, it seems."

"He'll get there," said Yoruichi before shifting her stance so her little brother could see Itachi, "Yūshirō, want to meet another friend of mine? This is Itachi. Can you say that?"

Yūshirō's brow furrowed again as he focused on the new face. "Ita… chee! Itachee!"

Itachi had to chuckle. "Not bad for a first attempt!"

He then leaned forward and gave Yūshirō a playful poke on the forehead. "Maybe you'll get it next time."

Yūshirō grinned. "Itachee! I wanna play with Itachee!"

Yoruichi giggled and batted her eyelashes at Itachi. "Well, you heard him! What do you say?"

Itachi's mind went back to the Leaf Village once again, and he had an idea. Kneeling next to Yoruichi, he looked up at her and nodded. Immediately grasping his intent, Yoruichi carefully lowered her little brother and placed his hands on Itachi's shoulders.

"Yūshirō, wrap your legs around Itachi and hold on tight, okay?" she said.

"Okay!" Yūshirō chirped.

Shifting his grip to make sure he had the boy held securely, Itachi then stood up. Yūshirō wasted no time in taking advantage of his new position.

"Race!" he shouted as he pointed forward, "Race Yoru… race Yoruichi!"

Itachi smirked at her. "Care for a little run? One lap up on the estate's wall?"

Yoruichi turned to her parents. "Mom, Dad, do you mind? I promise that Yūshirō will be safe in Itachi's hands."

Yoriko smiled. "Of course. This should be fun to watch!"

Satoshi chuckled. "Doesn't seem fair, does it? The Flash Goddess against her Eleventh Seat with a passenger in tow? At least give him a handicap, Yoruichi!"

Yoruichi winked at Itachi. "We'll see! Soi-Fon, want to give us the starting signal?"

Soi-Fon smiled. "Get into position and I'll start the countdown."

All it took was a quick leap for Itachi and Yoruichi to get up onto the estate's outer wall. She let Itachi take the inside half, and that wasn't the only concession she offered.

"Want a head start?" she asked.

Itachi shook his head before looking up at his passenger. "We don't need one. Isn't that right, Yūshirō?"

"Nope," the little boy agreed, "We're gonna win!"

Itachi and his Captain shared a knowing look. She'd go easy on him this time, of course. They needed to make things fun for her little brother, after all.

"Soi-Fon, you ready?" Yoruichi called out.

Her bodyguard nodded. "I am. I'll shadow both of you after the start just as a precaution. Not that I don't trust Itachi with your little brother, Lady Yoruichi. I simply want to be careful."

"It's fine," Yoruichi replied as she stretched her legs, "Ready whenever you are!"

Soi-Fon raised her right arm as both Itachi and Yoruichi crouched. "On three, then. One… two… three!"

The two Soul Reapers shot forward as soon as Soi-Fon's arm dropped, little more than a pair of blurs darting along the wall. These were hardly the fastest Flash Steps that either of them was capable of, of course. Neither of them was willing to go full-tilt and possibly endanger Yūshirō. Yoruichi's brother didn't seem to mind that they were holding back, though.

"Go, Itachee!" he screamed in the Eleventh Seat's ear, "Win! Win!"

Glancing at Yoruichi as they two of them rounded the first corner neck-and-neck, he saw that she was grinning from ear to ear. She matched his pace with ease, allowing herself to periodically fall back or get just a little bit ahead in order to present the illusion of a close contest. From the way that Yūshirō tightly gripped Itachi's hair and continued to cheer, her little brother was clearly enjoying every second of it. Itachi could feel little flecks of spittle from the boy fall into his hair, but he didn't mind in the least. His passenger was having fun. More importantly, so was his Captain.

To see her smile like this, he thought as they rounded the second corner, is more than worth a little mess.

All too soon, they hit the home stretch. Itachi poured on a bit more speed, and he felt Yūshirō's head weigh down on his as the little boy leaned forward, lowering himself to reduce wind resistance. He might have been a child, but he was definitely smarter than he let on. Yoruichi had moved back up to put the race at a dead heat, but Itachi saw her wink at him just before they reached their end point, and she let the two of them get just a few centimeters ahead of her at the last possible moment.

As they came to a stop, Yūshirō threw his arms into the air in celebration. "We won! Itachee, we won!"

Itachi nodded before they hopped down from the wall. "We sure did."

Yoruichi laughed as she ran her hands through both boys' hair. "Nice going, you two! I thought I had you there!"

"You nearly did," said Soi-Fon, smiling as well.

"Again!" Yūshirō ordered, "Race again!"

"Now, now," Yoriko gently chastised her son as she and her husband approached them, "don't get greedy, Yūshirō. It's time for Yoruichi and her friends to enjoy the party. What do you say to Itachi for giving you a fun ride?"

"Thank you, Itachee!" said Yūshirō, still grinning as his mother lifted him off of Itachi's back.

Yoriko kissed her son on the cheek before setting him down. "Very good!"

Yūshirō looked up at Itachi, a hopeful smile on his face. "Itachee, race again!"

Yoriko shook her head, although she was smiling too. "Oh, goodness… as unrelenting as your sister, I see."

Itachi knelt down next to Yūshirō and gave him another gentle poke to the forehead. "Not this time, Yūshirō. How about next time I visit, okay?"

"Okay!" the little boy chirped.

Yoriko waved the servant girl from before over. "Maki, can you make sure he gets something healthy for dinner tonight and seat him with the other children?"

"Of course," the young woman replied, "I'll keep a closer eye on him this time, too."

Yoriko nodded. "Thank you. Let him have some fun, but make sure he doesn't get out of hand."

Maki smiled as she reached down and offered her hand to the boy. "Come on, little Yūshirō! It's time for dinner!"

Before taking her hand, Yūshirō went over to hug his sister. "Yoruichi race with Itachee next time too?"

Yoruichi smiled as she ran her fingers through his hair. "Of course, I will."

"Promise?" the boy insisted.

Yoruichi leaned forward and gave him a light kiss on the forehead. "Promise!"

"Yay!" cheered Yūshirō before letting Maki lead him away.

"Thank you so much for indulging him," said Satoshi, "Sorry to put you on the spot like that."

Yoriko smiled as she looked at Itachi. "You handled him remarkably well. I appreciate Soi-Fon shadowing you during the race, but it doesn't seem to have been necessary. He truly was safe in your hands, Itachi."

"I'm just glad he was able to enjoy himself for a bit," Itachi replied.

"He definitely did," said Yoruichi as she put a hand on his shoulder, "I haven't seen him having so much fun in a while! Makes it worth throwing a race or two just to see him smile like that."

"We should have another race," Soi-Fon suggested, "Just between Itachi and yourself, Lady Yoruichi. If only to set the record straight."

Yoruichi rolled her eyes. "Soi-Fon, that's not necessary. I might like my title of Flash Goddess, but there's no need to assert my speed like you want me to here. Like I said before, I don't mind letting someone else win a race if it means that my little brother will be happy. Besides, does Itachi really strike you as the kind of guy to brag about something like this?"

Soi-Fon sighed. "I suppose not."

"If you want to give a proper demonstration of you speed, you can always do so in our next sparring match," said Itachi.

Yoruichi smirked. "You know you're asking for trouble with that, right?"

Itachi smiled. "Of course. I wouldn't have it any other way."

Yoruichi grinned as she looped an arm through Itachi's and looked at her parents. "Now do you see why I can't shut up about this guy?"

For a moment, Itachi was worried that her forwardness would get them both in trouble. They'd been trying to keep things between them discrete in order to avoid undue scrutiny from others, especially the aristocracy. Was she going to throw it out the window now?

Fortunately, both mother and father didn't seem the least bit bothered by it. In fact, from the knowing look that Yoriko was giving her husband, she at least seemed to have already suspected just what was really going on between them. Satoshi appeared to be in a state of almost resigned amusement, as if he'd just lot a fun little wager. With the way the heads of the Shihōin Clan had behaved so far, perhaps he had.

"Indeed, I do," Yoriko replied after a moment, "and I'd very much like to hear more."

There was a distinct rumbling, and Satoshi sheepishly smiled. "Yes… perhaps over dinner?"

"Dinner sounds lovely," said Yoruichi before looking at Itachi, "Don't you agree?"

Itachi nodded. "I do. Lead the way."

….

He's doing quite well, Inazuma On'na noted, I must admit, I'm pleasantly surprised.

I told you he'd be just fine!

They'd settled in at the center table in the courtyard, with Yoruichi's mother to her right and Itachi to her left. Soi-Fon was to Itachi's left, while Satoshi had taken the spot to the right of Lady Yoriko. Various guests had come forward to exchange pleasantries with their hosts, but apart from that the five of them had been able to carry with delightful conversation in between bites. Yoruichi could tell that her parents were trying not to be too intense in their interrogation of Itachi, but temptation was getting the better of them. Her Eleventh Seat was under some very close scrutiny here, but Yoruichi knew he was up to the challenge.

And Itachi had more than proven that her faith in him was well placed. Whether it was questions about his duties, his time at the Academy, or how he and Yoruichi had become close, he handled it all with the cool grace that Yoruichi had come to expect from him. The race with her and her brother had been more than just a bit of fun; it had served as an icebreaker of sorts, and Itachi seemed much more relaxed now as a result. Making her little brother laugh and smile, thereby winning him Yūshirō's immediate friendship, certainly hadn't hurt the impression he was making on her parents.

"I don't think I've ever seen Yūshirō have so much fun with anyone other than his big sister before," said Yoriko, "Itachi, you must tell me; what's your secret?"

Itachi gave a small smile. "No real secret, Lady Yoriko. I simply know a thing or two about what little brothers like."

"Do you have any siblings in the Seireitei?" asked Satoshi.

"None here or anywhere else in the Soul Society," Itachi replied, "Hopefully not for many years to come, at least."

Yoruichi saw her parents trade looks; Itachi's words were all the hint they needed to recognize what ground they were treading on. She knew that they wouldn't press the matter. After all, most nobles didn't go about breaking major Soul Society social taboos at their birthday parties.

Yoriko gave him a soft and understanding smile. "I'll second that notion. In the meantime, if you're looking for someone to serve as a foster sibling of sort, I imagine Yūshirō would be quite happy to fill that position."

Yoruichi winked at Itachi. "Does that mean I should start calling you 'brother' as well?"

Itachi winced. "Please, don't."

Satoshi laughed. "I think Yūshirō might get jealous if you do that! He usually doesn't take too kindly to someone competing with him for his dear 'Yoruchi's' attention."

Yoruichi rolled her eyes. "If he wants my attention, he can at least get my name right."

"Oh, he can and does," said Lady Yoriko, "His speech and grammar lessons are coming along quite well; he can both pronounce and write your name with ease. I think he mispronounces it just to see your reaction to it now. He does like it when you coach him. You're around so little, after all, so he feels like he needs to do whatever he can to make sure you focus on him."

Yoruichi sighed. "I know. I'm sorry I haven't been able to come by much lately. Even with my workload as a Captain, I should do a better job at making time for both you and him."

Yoriko put a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Sweetheart, it's quite all right. We'd all like to see you more, but we understand just how important your duties are. It was something we accepted the day you entered the Academy, and we'd never hold it against you."

Satoshi smiled. "It seems like hardly a day goes by lately that we don't hear of Squad Two's accomplishments. You've done your grandmother proud ever since you stepped into her shoes."

"She sends her regards, by the way," said Yoriko, "You really do need to make the time for a trip out to see her soon. With everything Squad Two has done over the past few years, surely the Head Captain would allow you a bit of a vacation."

"We would certainly welcome it," said a familiar male voice from behind her.

Looking over her shoulder, Yoruichi smiled as none other than Kiemon Shihōin approached their table, wearing a simple dark green kimono and a warm smile. "Grandfather! You made it!"

Kiemon laughed as he leaned down to kiss her on the forehead. "Of course, I did! You didn't think that I'd miss my daughter's birthday, did you?"

"I had no idea you were in town," said Yoruichi, "When did you arrive?"

"Just yesterday," Kiemon replied as he took a seat next to Satoshi, "I've been hoping for the chance to see you, granddaughter."

"Lord Kiemon," said Soi-Fon, her eyebrow twitching in annoyance; she clearly hadn't forgiven him for his part in the Blade Dancer Festival incident years ago, "Good to see you again."

Kiemon chuckled. "Likewise, Soi-Fon. Don't worry, I have no intention of serving you monkey booze this time!"

"That may be so," said Soi-Fon, eyeing him warily, "but I'm sure you'll understand if I still refuse to accept any drinks whatsoever from you tonight."

Kiemon nodded before turning to Yoruichi's Eleventh Seat. "Of course. Itachi Uchiha, glad to see that you're in attendance as well. I've heard that you're moving up in the world. My granddaughter seems to be getting the most out of your talents."

Itachi inclined his head. "She certainly is."

Kiemon looked up at the sky, his brow furrowing. "I heard a certain Shiba Clan firecracker was going to be lighting things up for us tonight, but there hasn't been so much as a spark! I do hope she hasn't lost her touch."

"The fireworks aren't set to begin until after we've eaten and taken our places on the upper balcony," Yoriko explained, "Kūkaku has assured me that she's brought only the finest of her products for tonight's festivities."

Kiemon smiled. "Ah, excellent! I'll be looking forward to it. In the meantime, thought, I think we could do with a little warmup before the big show. It's only right to whet the appetites of the guests, isn't it?"

Yoruichi smirked; this promised to be amusing. "What exactly did you have in mind, grandfather?"

She wasn't disappointed in the least when Kiemon turned to her handsome subordinate. "Itachi, you've had a chance to eat your fill, right? What do you say to a bit of after-dinner exercise? A little exhibition match between you and me for the crowd's entertainment? If I recall correctly, there should be some wooden practice swords in one of the nearby storehouses."

Itachi took the challenge in stride; in fact, based on the small smile that appeared on his face, it looked to Yoruichi like he'd almost been hoping for it. "I suppose that's one way to work off my meal. Wouldn't you like the chance to eat first, though?"

"I've already had my fill of snacks from the tables," Kiemon answered, "These parties certainly never lack for delectable goodies, and it can be all too easy to overindulge. Besides, I'd rather fight you now while I'm still mostly sober!"

Itachi nodded as he stood up. "Very well, then. Shall we?"

Kiemon chuckled as he joined Itachi. "Yes, let's. Yoriko, do you mind having your servants clear out a little space for us?"

Yoriko smiled in eager anticipation. "Of course!"

A chorus of excited murmurs rippled through the crowd as a round impromptu sparring ring was prepared. Kiemon and Itachi stepped into it a few minutes later, each holding a wooden training sword. The servants had set things up so Yoruichi and everyone else at her table had front row seats to the show, and none of the guests wanted to be the one that blocked the view of Shihōin Clan heads.

"Any conditions?" asked Itachi.

"Let's keep things simple," Kiemon replied, "This isn't the Blade Dancer Festival. First one to land a hit with their sword wins. Beyond that, anything goes."

Itachi's eyes narrowed. "Anything? You do remember what unit I'm part of, right?"

Kiemon's smile was all teeth. "Oh, yes, I very much do."

Itachi nodded. "As long as we're both on the same page."

"Well, now, this looks like it'll be fun to watch!" a familiar male voice chimed in, "Want me to play the role of judge?"

"I'd appreciate that, Isshin," said Itachi.

Squad Ten's Third Seat, garbed in a bright red kimono and with more than a hint of booze on his breath, took up position at the edge of the ring, grinning at the prospect of a good fight. "Okay, then! We'll kick things off on three, got it?"

He raised his right hand high over his head as both fighters brought their weapons up into a ready position. "One… two… three!"

His arm dropped, and the two fighters lunged forward.

….

Training with Yoruichi had helped Itachi hone his skills in fighting fast opponents, but even with that experience he was still caught off guard by just how quickly Kiemon had closed the gap with him. The old man wasn't as swift as Squad Two's Captain, but he was definitely faster than someone his age had any right to be. The two of them had met in the center of the sparring circle, yet despite being the younger and spryer of combatants it was Itachi that found himself on the defensive.

From the way he carried himself the last time I saw him and what Yoruichi said, I knew he'd be good, Itachi thought as he fended off a series of slashes from the old man, I didn't imagine he'd be this good, though.

Age might have slowed Kiemon down a step or two, but Yoruichi's grandfather more than made up for that with experience and skill. His wooden sword was barely more than a blur even to Itachi's trained eyes, and it hit his own weapon so hard that the former Shinobi was surprised it hadn't shattered. High slashes gave way to thrusts at his gut, only for the old man to almost immediate shift to hammering away with powerful overhead swings. Itachi found himself wishing that the sparring ring was bigger; he didn't have nearly as much room to maneuver as he'd like to against such an opponent.

Even when taken aback by the agility and ferocity of his foe, though, Itachi refused to back down. He met Kiemon's vicious offense with a deft defense, focusing first and foremost on tight swordsmanship and careful footwork. Itachi had never seen this particular opponent fight before, and he needed to give himself a chance to study his tendencies.

Kiemon stepped back, and another fighter would've used the chance to take the initiative, but not Itachi; he knew a trap when he saw one. Sure enough, the old man's sword flashed through the air in two incredibly fast strokes, a horizontal slash going upwards followed immediately by another going down and crossing the path of the first. Had it been done with a real sword, Itachi was positive that Kiemon would've sheathed his weapon first; this was almost certainly a move meant to begin with a quickdraw. He narrowly dodged the first strike and parried the follow-up one, and Kiemon grinned as Itachi counterattacked.

"Not bad!" the old man complimented as the former Shinobi struck at him with a veritable whirlwind of slashes, "It's not everyday I get to see a fighter who can defend himself from the Shihōin Cross!"

Itachi smiled as he pressed his assault, hammering the old man's defenses with blow after blow. "I take it that's a Shihōin Clan secret technique? I've never seen Yoruichi use it when we spar."

"She knows it, but it doesn't mesh well with her style," Kiemon replied as he fended off every strike that Itachi threw at him, "It's meant more for a regular sword than the short one that she uses. Besides, her preferred Zanjutsu forms are always a mix of the blade and her Hakuda abilities."

"So I've noticed," said Itachi as Kiemon parried a thrust and swiftly countered, forcing Itachi back onto the defensive.

The various party guests cheered and laughed, but neither combatant paid them much mind. Continuing to face his opponent with only Zanjutsu was looking to be a losing proposition; Kiemon's experience and talent with the blade was far beyond that of most Soul Reapers. Had the man been a member of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads, Itachi was certain that his swordsmanship alone would've been enough to earn him a recommendation for the rank of Captain. The ravages of time might have sapped what had surely once been incredible speed and power, but the remaining cunning and instinctive grasp of combat were beyond formidable.

It's as if he's a sword himself, Itachi mused as he fended off a hurricane of blows, one whose edge has been constantly sharpened, always cutting away imperfections and impurities. What's left behind might be thin and may not last much longer, but its cuts are all the deadlier for it.

Luckily for Itachi, the contest wasn't one of pure Zanjutsu. Kiemon had known exactly what he was getting into when setting the terms as anything goes, and Itachi wasn't above taking advantage of that. Blocking a swing from the old man, Itachi then ducked low and made a sweeping kick. Kiemon leapt over it easily enough, but it gave Itachi a chance to go back on the defensive. He shifted the wooden sword over to just his right hand, and when he spotted an opening, he reached out to grab Kiemon with his left. Itachi managed briefly to seize a fistful of the old man's kimono and tried to pull him forward, but Kiemon simply allowed his momentum to carry him forward rather than fight it. The result was actually Itachi barely being able to step out of the way as the old man thrust his sword forward, missing his gut by the slimmest of margins.

Kiemon chuckled as he swung at Itachi's legs. "Very good! I was hoping you'd make this more than just a swordfight. You'll have to do better than that, though."

Itachi allowed himself a small smile; if Yoruichi's grandfather wanted him to step up his game, then he'd happily deliver. Deflecting a hard overhand strike from the old man, Itachi then ducked and rolled to the left. As he came up, he made a horizontal swing, but the move was a feint. Kiemon blocked it easily enough, but Itachi then lunged for the man's legs, aiming to grapple and haul his opponent to the ground. Unfortunately for him, Kiemon was quick on his feet, and Itachi had to pull back in order to avoid eating a foot to the face. Fully upright, Itachi only had time to get his sword up into a guard position, and it wasn't a moment too soon. Kiemon had his sword raised over his head and brought it down hard, and the first blow was immediately followed by another. What little energy the elderly warrior still possessed was focused wholly into his sword, strike with such ferocity that Itachi's defenses were starting to buckle under the withering assault.

The old man grinned as he drove Itachi back, a tiger bearing his fangs at the prospect of an imminent kill. Itachi refused to let him have it easy, though. He Flash Stepped behind Kiemon and thrust his sword at his opponent's back. The warrior quickly brought his sword behind his back, deflecting the attack without even looking at Itachi himself. Itachi then rolled to the right before lunging forward, succeeding in tackling the old man to the ground. He brought his sword down hard, but Kiemon had thrust his up at the same time, with the end result being Itachi atop the old man with his sword hitting his shoulder at the same time as his opponent's weapon struck him.

"And that's a draw!" Isshin announced as the crowd broke into applause.

Kiemon laughed as both men lowered their swords and Itachi pulled him to his feet. "A draw! A draw! How long has it been since I last experienced one of those?"

"For what it's worth, you made me work for even that much," said Itachi, "You're a formidable swordsman. Had our contest been one purely of Zanjutsu, I would have lost."

Kiemon scratched his chin as he regarded Itachi thoughtfully. "I'm not so sure about that. Your swordsmanship is quite impressive, and that was in a rather constrained environment. I'd like to see what you could do sometime in a more open setting… and with your real blade."

The challenge was clear, and Itachi wanted to keep the window open for it. "That would be interesting. Should circumstances allow in the future, perhaps such a match can be arranged."

Kiemon grinned. "Oh, I imagine one could."

"One that would be very interesting to watch, I'm sure," said Yoruichi as she approached the two of them, "In the meantime, I think the rest of us can settle for what we just saw."

Yoriko clapped. "Excellent match, both of you!"

Yoruichi smiled as she patted Itachi on the back. "I'll say! I've never seen grandfather lose or tie with anyone in a swordfight. Nicely done!"

"Bravo!" cheered Satoshi, "I couldn't ask for a better show than that."

From the sidelines, Kūkaku cleared her throat. "Oh, really? Perhaps I should just pack up my wares and leave, then?"

Yoruichi laughed. "Oh, come on, Kūkaku! What's the matter? Don't like it when your babies have to share the spotlight?"

Kūkaku smirked. "You're lucky that we're friends, Yoruichi! I don't even let Kaien get away with talking like that to me."

Isshin chuckled. "Or me, for that matter!"

Kūkaku grinned. "You got that right! Now then, since the crowd's suitably worked up, what do you all say we get the real show on the road?"

"Sounds good to me," said Yoruichi, "but that's not my call to make. Mom, what do you think?"

Yoriko smiled. "I think we've all had enough time to chit-chat and dine. Kūkaku, give us about ten minutes or so, and then you're free to do what you do best!"

Kūkaku looked like a kid who had just been told she had free run of the candy shop. "Yes, ma'am!"

….

Although the third-story balcony overlooking the courtyard was both spacious and strong, even it wasn't sturdy enough to handle every guest attending the party. As was tradition, the immediately Shihōin family and their closest friends and retainers were given this prime viewing spot for the evening fireworks show. All others would have to make do with finding good spots in the courtyard, but Kūkaku always put on such a dazzling show that Yoruichi had never heard of anyone left on the ground floor complaining about missing out.

A few tables lined with snacks and drinks were set up at the back of the balcony, but apart from that it was completely cleared of furniture to make room for the masters of the estate and their companions. For the first time, the second category included Itachi, and Yoruichi would've been lying if she'd said that she hadn't been waiting for the chance to show this place off to him.

"Hell of a view, eh?" she asked as she sidled up next to him at the railing.

Itachi nodded. "I'll say. Whenever I saw this place during my Seireitei patrols, I always wondered what it'd be like to survey the area from this vantage point. I figured it'd be a good view, but being here and experiencing it firsthand is something else entirely."

Yoruichi smiled. "I'll take that as a compliment. We try not to go too over the top in flaunting our wealth, but… well, we're a Great Noble House. There are certain expectations to meet, and having a giant house with a good view of the Seireitei is one of them. I'm pleased to say that we pass that particular test with flying colors!"

"You certainly do," said Itachi, and she was pleased to see him smile as well, "Speaking of expectations… it seems some of mine were completely misplaced, and definitely for the better. I know that you told me not worry, that your parents weren't like other nobles, but even so… I had my apprehensions about coming here tonight."

No one was paying attention to the two of them at the moment, so Yoruichi felt safe in placing her right hand over Itachi's left on the railing. "I know you did, and that's perfectly natural. I've always tried to keep myself from being defined solely by my family name and status, but I'm not blind to the effects that it has on those around me and how they might perceive me. From the moment I met you, you've always treated me first and foremost as my own person, respecting who I am and my abilities rather than my lineage. There are only a few other individuals that I have that with, you know? Even so, those that I'm close with can still be intimidated by my family whenever we're in a setting like this. You had your concerns, and there's nothing wrong with that, but I hope you feel a little more welcome here now than you did before."

"I do," Itachi replied, meeting her gaze, "Your family… your mother, father, brother, grandfather… I may not know them well, but I've seen enough to know that they're all good people. It'll still probably take some time for me to truly become comfortable visiting them at a place like this, but I'm willing to try… if they'll have me here again, of course."

Yoruichi grinned. "Are you kidding? Did you see the way they were looking at you when you raced me with my brother, or when we were all chatting at dinner? Tonight's the first time Mom and Dad have met you, and they already can't get enough of you! They're going to start inviting you to every minor family function or celebration that they can think of, and soon you're going to be begging me to hide you from them!"

Itachi chuckled. "Well, that doesn't sound so bad. I'm so used to being the bad kind of popular. Resented child prodigy at the Academy, world-wanted criminal after the clan's destruction, resurrected to be used as a valuable pawn for a world war… being in demand as a guest at your parents' estate sounds like a nice change of pace."

"You might change your mind once I tell them about your mother," Yoruichi teased, "I think Mom and Mikoto would really hit it off, and once that happens… well, you think the teasing you get from me and your mother is bad? Just wait until you throw my mother into the mix!"

Itachi actually laughed at that. "The horror… I can already imagine it! Perhaps I should run and hide while I still can."

Yoruichi winked. "Think you can run from me? Even if I gave you a head start, I think we both know how that would end for you!"

"Yes, I think we do," said Itachi with a smile, "Of course, that assumes I'd ever want to run from you in the first place, and that's the last thing I would desire."

Yoruichi actually found herself blushing at that. "Itachi…"

She looked longingly into his eyes, tempted to kiss him and say to hell with the consequences. Unfortunately, her parents picked that moment to come over, and Yoruichi's sense of discretion won out this time as she pulled her hand away from Itachi's. Of course, from the wink Yoriko gave her, it was clear that she at least had already figured out what was going on between her and Itachi, and she'd probably shared those suspicions with Satoshi. There probably wouldn't be much harm from a public display of affection in front of them, but there were other nobles on this balcony as well that might start spreading inconvenient gossip.

"Not interrupting anything, are we?" her mother asked with a knowing smile.

Yoruichi shook her head. "Not at all. We're just admiring the view."

Satoshi grinned. "Never fails to impress, does it?"

"It certainly doesn't," Itachi concurred.

"It'll look even better in about a minute or so," said Yoriko.

"Yoruichi! Itachee!" cried a familiar male voice.

Turning around, Yoruichi and the others saw Yūshirō race away from his attendant and bolt right for her and Itachi. Yoruichi smiled as she knelt to greet her little brother.

"Yūshirō, I thought Mom told you to behave!" Yoruichi gently chided.

Yūshirō didn't even pay attention. "Fireworks! I want to watch fireworks with you!"

Yoriko turned to her husband. "Satoshi, mind giving out boy a lift so he can enjoy the show?"

Satoshi nodded before holding his arms out for Yūshirō. "Sure. Come on, Yūshirō! Ready to sit on daddy's shoulders so you can see the fireworks?"

Yūshirō actually shook his head before looking at Yoruichi's subordinate. "Itachee! I want Itachee's shoulders!"

Satoshi shook his head, although he did look more than a little amused by the situation. "Yūshirō, Itachi's a guest! You can't have him carry you on your back whenever you please. He's here to enjoy the party too."

"It's all right," said Itachi, "I don't mind, really."

Yūshirō cheered. "Itachee!"

Yoriko shook her head. "Itachi, I appreciate that you're willing to entertain him, but you don't have to. Satoshi and I can mind him for the moment."

"I'd actually like to do this," Itachi pressed, "It's no inconvenience or anything. Far from it, in fact."

Yoruichi smiled as she felt her heart skip a beat; she had a feeling she knew why Itachi was so willing to do this for her little brother. "Mom, Dad… let him lift up Yūshirō. Please."

They might not have known about Itachi's past, but they could both tell that this meant more to both him and Yoruichi than just indulging the boy. They both relented, and Itachi wasted no time in crouching and letting Yūshirō climb up on his back just like before. He laughed and began messing with Itachi's hair in short order, while the man holding him up had a nostalgic smile on his face.

"You did this with Sasuke, didn't you?" she whispered in his ear.

"Yes," Itachi replied, "Just a few times… I should've done it so much more."

"When he finally comes here, maybe he'll let you," said Yoruichi with a wink, "He might be a bit heavier than my brother, though!"

Itachi chuckled. "Just a bit."

A string of shells suddenly shot up from the courtyard, and they burst into brilliant blossoms of yellow and purple light. Cheers rang out from the onlookers as a second salvo quickly followed; Kūkaku's show was underway. Satisfied that everyone else was watching the fireworks, Yoruichi took Itachi's hand again. They shared a brief look, with flecks of blue and red light from Kūkaku's next volley glimmering in their eyes. In that moment, everything else faded. Yoruichi's parents, the guests on the balcony, and even her little brother clinging to Itachi's back and laughing with glee at the pyrotechnic spectacle unfolding before his wide eyes. It felt like it was just the two of them, with the show and crowd little more than set dressing.

Yoruichi was no fool. Sure, she enjoyed flirting and teasing, having some fun and enjoying herself with a friend and paramour, but she wasn't blind to the way her heart fluttered as she held Itachi's gaze. This wasn't something she'd felt with past lovers. Whatever was happening between her and Itachi, Yoruichi knew that it was slowly growing into something more than just a 'friends-with-benefits' deal.

Where would their path ultimately take them?

What fruit would their relationship ultimately bring forth?

Yoruichi didn't know, but she very much wanted to find out.

Now wasn't the time for that, though. For now, it was simply enough to take comfort in his companionship, to enjoy this moment of joy and peace as Kūkaku's pyrotechnic wonders illuminated the sky. The future for her and Itachi could be pondered later. She had him with her here and now.

And that was all she wanted.

Author's Notes: Well, I can't promise that future chapters will be this short, but I do want to shoot for ones around this length going forward. It was much easier to edit this one than the longer ones, for starters, plus I can get these out at a much faster rate! Of course, chapters with major battles will definitely be on the longer side. Anyway, it's all very much a work in progress, so I hope you'll all bear with me as I experiment and refine my style going forward.

Oh, if any of you are into the game Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, then a couple of Kiemon's moves in the sparring match might have been familiar to you. Yup, those were the Ashina Cross and the Ichimonji: Double.

For the next chapter, the focus is going back to Jiraiya. Our Pervy Sage is moving up in the world, and he's due for a little vacation! Where's he going to spend that vacation? Where the land is cold and the women have wings and can beat his ass seven ways to Sunday with him enjoying every second of it! If that ain't hint enough for you, then I don't know what is.

Hope you all liked the chapter! Please review, stay safe, and I'll see you next time.