Bleach is owned by Tito Kubo, however my OC's are my own.

Apricot Parfait

Ch.11 Please Don't Kill Me, Miss

"Welcome back, Kenny"! Greeted Squad Eleven's Lieutenant, Yachiru Kusajishi.

"Yachiru". Captain Kenpachi Zaraki nodded down at her.

Having been greeted by her captain, Yachiru giggled and ran to climb up his back hanging from her favorite spot on his shoulder. "So~. How'd the meeting go"?

"Terrible. Ichimaru let a ryoka in". Kenpachi grumbled walking up the steps to the Squad Eleven dojo.

"Uh oh, that doesn't sound too good. What are we going to do about it"? Despite her words, Yachiru was not worried. In fact she was her usual cheery carefree self.

"Nothing. The Head Captain wants us to be on the lookout and take in anyone who looks suspicious. What a bore. A ryoka gets in and we can't kill them? If I see that ryoka, I'm going to slaughter 'em regardless of what Yamamoto says." Kenpachi brooded. Irritation clear on his face.

"Sounds fun Kenny, but what if they're strong? I mean they gotta be if they made it past Captain Ichimaru, right"? The pink-haired lieutenant put a finger to her chin in thought.

Captain Zaraki stopped walking. "If the ryoka is strong..."? A bloodthirsty grin slowly spread on his face at the new perspective Yachiru had brought up. He was going to slaughter the ryoka regardless, but if they were strong then... Kenpachi's eyes shone with excitement. "Maybe this situation isn't a bore. Yes~, Yachiru may be right..."

"You're smiling, Kenny! I hope we can meet this ryoka. That way you can smile lots"! Ha ha ha hee hee hee.

"Oh yes. I hope I meet this ryoka too, Yachiru, and I hope for their sake that they're strong".

Continuing his way to the dojo, Captain Zaraki was greeted by fifteen or so of his squad members when he entered the wooden building.

"Good morning, Squad Captain"! They said in unison.

Waving them off, he sat down on the green cushioned bench lining the dojo's wall. Yachiru, who had jumped off his shoulder onto the bench, was laying on her stomach waving her feet happily in the air. Kenny being in a good mood always made her happy.

"My, don't you look chipper this morning, Captain". Fifth Seat, Yumichika Ayasegawa greeted.

"Yumichika. Well, that's not the exact word I'd use, but I've come across some rather uplifting bit of news".

"Oh~? Do tell, Captain".

"Uplifting? Does that mean you're going to kill someone"? Third Seat, Ikkaku Madarame had walked from the far end of the dojo once he saw his captian enter. Coming to a stop, he stood next to Yumichika.

Kenpachi's grin turned nearly bestial at hearing Ikkaku guess correctly. To anyone else, they would liken Captain Zaraki to having the look of a rabid animal, but to his lieutenant, third and fifth seats this meant the promise of battle was on the horizon, and that made their captain excited beyond words.

"So, it's true then? Well, I feel sorry for the poor soul. To get caught on our captain's radar. I hope they're strong whoever they are". Ikkaku crossed his arms over his chest.

"Hee hee, tell them, Kenny". Yachiru giddily waved her arms patting Kenpachi on this thigh.

"I'm not supposed to make an official announcement just yet, but a ryoka is currently on the loose in the Seireitei, and I'm going to fight them". Kenpachi's eyes sharpened. An unspoken promise that when he found this ryoka he'd make them fight with all that they had. It was only proper if they were as strong as Yachiru thought they were.

"A ryoka?! What are your orders, sir"? Ikkaku's eyes widened in surprise. "If a ryoka entered the Seireitei, they must be dealt with immediately. We can't just let them roam freel-".

"Relax. Captain Yamamoto doesn't want us to do anything other than take them into custody which I'll do after I have my fun with them". Kenpachi's feral grin returned at the thought of battling this ryoka. The Head Captain never said they couldn't fight the ryoka before bringing them in. Just don't use war methods to do it.

"My, I don't believe I've ever seen our captain smile so much in one day. It's making me want to smile a beautiful one of my own". Yumichika smiled to no one in particular. His perfectly whitened teeth sparkled in the sunlight that trickled through the dojo's windows.

"Yay, everyone's happy! Smile too, Baldy! Ha ha ha hee hee hee".

"I told you not to call me that, Lieutenant"! Yelled Ikkaku. A frustrated bulge protruding from his forehead

"Smile! Smile"! Yachiru used her index fingers to lift the corners of her mouth in an attempt to show squad eleven's third seat how to do it. Thinking she was funny, she bursted into a fit of giggles much to Ikkaku's chagrin. Not amused he ignored her and focused on his captain.

"I think I'll head out for a bit. If any of you find the ryoka. Let me know". Kenpachi stood from the bench waiting for Yachiru to get back on his shoulder.

At these words, Yachiru jumped on her captain's back ready to go on an adventure to see if they could find this ryoka and make Kenny smile more.

"Ok, Kenny! Let's go"! The pink haired lieutenant cheered.

"What? Already? But we haven't started morning training".

Pausing, Kenpachi turned to Ikkaku. "It can wait till after I get back". Continuing forward to exit the dojo, Yachiru's distant voice could be heard telling their captian that she'd be his guide and knows all sorts of secret places for ryoka to hide.

"Is that so? Well, lead the way, Yachiru".

"Ha ha hee hee, Ok! Turn, left over here, Kenny"!

Watching his captain leave, Ikkaku stared at the dojo's entrance till his captain was no longer in sight. "I hope for you sake you're strong, ryoka". Shaking his head as it was useless to hope for anyone his captain took an interest in, the third seat of squad eleven walked to the center of the dojo. With Kenpachi and Yachiru gone, he was now in charge.

"Alright, listen up everyone! Our captain and lieutenant headed out for a bit, but that doesn't mean we can slack off. Prepare for morning training. Now"!

"Yes, sir"!

A young woman with dark hair tied into a bun with cloth hurried down the corridor leading to the Squad Five barracks. She'd just gotten back from delivering papers to another squad. Opening the shoji screen door to the captain's office. Lieutenant Hinamori bowed at the threshold before entering.

"Good morning, Captain Aizen. I'm sorry for not greeting you earlier. I had an errand to run this morning".

"Ah, Momo. Good morning, and it's ok. The head captain called an unscheduled meeting this morning, so you wouldn't have seen me anyway". Captain Sosuke Aizen was filling out paperwork. A cup of freshly steeped tea steamed from the handcrafted yunomi on his desk.

"An unscheduled meeting? Is everything ok, Captain Aizen"? Momo looked worriedly to her captain.

Tapping the stack of papers he just filled out on his desk to neaten them, Aizen put them down giving his full attention to his lieutenant. With a warm and gentle smile, he invited her to take a seat.

Taking this as her cue to enter, Momo shut the shoji screen door. Taking one of the two chairs that were positioned in front of her captain's desk, she sat down. Once seated, he spoke.

"This morning a ryoka entered the Seireitei. I'm not sure how, but they somehow managed to get past Captain Ichimaru. The meeting was regarding how Head Captain Yamamoto wanted us to proceed with the matter".

"A ryoka inside the Seireitei? Oh my… "How could this happen? Isn't the Seireiheki that surrounds the Seireitei impenetrable? What does Head Captain Yamamoto want us to do"? Momo had several questions swirling in her head. A ryoka inside the Seireitei was big news, after all.

"As of right now, our objective is to take them into custody. Head Captain Yamamoto doesn't want us to treat this like a full-scale threat just yet and would like the news to stay between captains and their lieutenants, but we should still treat this matter seriously in case the ryoka proves to be more troublesome than we initially thought.

"I see". Momo closed her eyes. The thought of a ryoka having gotten in the Seireitei was too much. She hoped they didn't hurt her captain.

"Why the distraught look, Momo? It's unfortunate that a ryoka got in, but it's just one, and I'm sure someone will catch them soon". Standing up from his chair, Aizen walked around his desk to stand in front of his lieutenant. Placing his hand on the top of her head he gave her a warm and gentle smile as he patted her head lightly. His lieutenant was prone to worry, and he'd do what he could to comfort her.

Realizing that everything would be ok. Momo returned a soft smile of her own. "Captain Aizen always knows how to make me feel at ease. I need to trust in him and do my part to make sure no harm comes to him. I hope that ryoka is caught soon. ".

Removing his hand, Aizen made his way back to sit in his desk chair. "Now if you'll excuse me, Momo. I have some work I must finish". Captain Aizen gave his lieutenant another smile. Reaching into a desk drawer he grabbed an ink stick and began grinding it on his inkstone.

Mesmerized by this action, Momo realized that she had been staring. "O-oh, of course, sir. I'll be leaving now". Momo stood up from her chair and bowed her head before leaving the office. The sound of the shoji screen shutting signaled her departure.

Having made enough ink, Aizen put the ink stick back in his drawer. "What a dutiful lieutenant I have" Aizen mused to himself fondly.

With a content sigh, he reached for his tea cup taking a sip of the masterfully brewed green tea. Taking the next stack of papers, he dipped his brush in the ink and started filling them out.

"Captain. We should find this ryoka and take them into custody ourselves".

Lieutenant Kira Izuru was currently filing paperwork for his captain. Getting up from his crouched position from filing paperwork on the bottom drawer, he stood up to reach the highest drawer in another one of the seven olive-green colored filing cabinets that lined the east wall of squad three's captain's office.

"My my, you worry too much, Izuru". Captain Gin Ichimaru put a packet of papers in the "completed" section on his desk. Grabbing the next stack, he began filling out a request by squad six for an information collaboration based on one of his squad members having stumbled upon information regarding the where abouts of a noblewoman and her forbidden lover on their most recent mission.

"It's just that-".

"I was planning on heading out later to see if I could catch the ryoka myself to make up for my error this morning. Would you like to come with me, Izuru"? Gin gave his lieutenant his signature snake-like grin causing the man to shy away. Maybe he was pushing his captain a little too hard. Still, his desire to assist his captain no matter the danger was stronger.

"I just want to be of help, Sir. Squad three's reputation is in question right now. Please. Allow me to organize a small task force so that we may help you catch this ryoka an-"

"I'm kidding, Izuru. The Head Captain doesn't want this turning into a full-blown search cuz it'll make the other squad members nervous. You're the only one I'm permitted to tell this information to, so please keep this to yourself for the time being. If this ryoka is harder to catch than what I suspect, I'll bring you along with me on my next outing. You're the only one I can count on for this, Izuru". Gin smiled at his lieutenant. Though it looked more like a snake that was ready to unhinge its jaw to devour prey.

"Captain"... Izuru couldn't help the look of admiration that had rooted itself in his eyes. His captain trusted him enough to keep such serious information to himself, and he'd be the first to know if his captain needed help. Captain Ichimaru was the best. "Thank you, Captain. I'll be sure to be of great help to you".

"I'm sure you will, Izuru. Now, would you deliver these papers to Squad Six for me? I'd go myself, but I don't feel much like going". Gin waved a stack of paperwork at his lieutenant.

"O-of course, sir. Right away". Taking the stack, Izuru ran out of the office. The Sixth Squad was the furthest from Squad Three, so if he wanted to be on stand-by for his captain he had to hurry.

"Such a good boy that Izuru is. I almost feel bad for him…Well, almost". Gin grinned at this thought. "Poor Izuru".

Deciding to take a break while his lieutenant was out, the Captain of Squad Three closed his office door behind him, and headed toward an unknown destination.

"Good morning, Captain".

"Mornin'"!

One moment Hanataro was sweeping the street, and the next, he was whisked away with a firm arm around his chest and a hand over his mouth preventing him from calling out for help. Judging by the view in front of him, he appeared to be deep within a shadowed alleyway. He had been abducted.

Feeling the person behind him shift, he could tell his captor was a woman based on what he felt pressing against the back of his neck. The blush that lightly tinted his cheeks didn't stay for long because when he felt something else pressing against him, this time on the lower left side of his back, he realized it was the hilt of a sword. Now panicking, he shut his eyes tightly trying not to think of the various ways his captor would use the weapon against him. Hearing a feminine voice, he slowly opened his eyes realizing that he was being told to do something.

"Nod once if you can hear me".

Hesitating for a few seconds, Hanataro nodded his head twice vigorously. Sweat started to form on his brow. He didn't know what this person could possibly want with him of all people, but he hoped that whatever it was they'd leave him unharmed once they got it.

"I'm looking for someone. Rukia Kuchiki. Do you know her"?

"Rukia? What does this person want with her? -Wait that's not important right now. My life is in danger"! The young soul reaper mentally chided himself for thinking about such a trivial thought. Nodding his head twice, he let out a shaky breath through his nose.

"Do you happen to know where she is currently located"?

With another nod of his head, the woman seemed to be in thought because she didn't ask him anymore questions.

Now that he had a moment to organize his thoughts, Hanataro was beginning to think that the person behind him was the ryoka he'd overhead Captain Unohana and Lieutenant Kotetsu talking about in the captain's office that morning. He didn't mean to eavesdrop on their conversation, but he had been in the general supply closet grabbing syringes, packs of gauze, and antiseptic when he'd heard his captain's voice filter through the rooms' shared ventilation system. The news had frightened him at first, but now that he was standing chest to back with the person that he thought was the ryoka, he found it odd how he couldn't sense any reiryoku coming from them. It was all so confusing. How could someone with no reireyoku manage to get into the Seireitei? Hanataro was sure he was missing something, but he didn't have much time to ponder this thought when the woman behind him spoke again causing him to tense his body out of fear.

"Please. Just let me go. I don't want to die~"! Hanataro was an internally quivering mess of sobs. If he hadn't of volunteered to sweep the street, he wouldn't be in this predicament. He should've kept his head down when the squad leader asked for volunteers at the miscellaneous duties meeting that morning.

"I'm going to remove my hand and arm, and you're going to keep your eyes forward. If you do anything other than what I just said, I will be forced to knock you out. Nod if you understand".

Hanataro nodded. Feeling her remove her hand, he dared not move a muscle.

"Where is she"?

"R-rukia is currently being held in the Repentance Tower".

"Where is it"?

"It's a ways away from here, but I can show you where it is if you want"… "Ahh! Why did I just offer to show the ryoka where the tower is?! C-calm down, Hanataro. Calm down. Maybe they'll decline and let me g-".

"Are you a friend of Rukia's"?

"What..."? Hanataro flinched caught off guard by the woman's question. "Is she implying that she's a friend of Rukia's? Ah. What if she has a grudge against her or something, and is seeking out anyone associated with her?... That means I'll be... killed..."

Hanatatro's eyes spun rapidly in thick black spirals. Being a captive was so frightening. How should he answer? Was it safe to tell her that he'd been her caretaker when she was placed in the cells? Was that considered a close enough relationship to be friendship?

"All I asked was for you to tell me where she was being held. You didn't have to offer to show me, so I asked if you were a friend of hers".

"Um, yes. I suppose…". "Please be the right answer! Please be the right answer"! The back of Hanataro's head started sweating and he swallowed hard. This was the moment of truth. If this was the wrong answer he'd apologize and beg the ryoka for forgiveness like he always did. Not hearing her voice, he assumed that meant he'd displeased her and got ready to beg for mercy.

"I'm-", but before he could do that. The woman cut him off.

"Do you want Rukia to be saved"?

"Do I want... Rukia to be saved…"? "I, um. I mean. I'm sorry this is such a sudden thing to as-".

"It's a simple "yes" or "no" question. By revealing Rukia's location, you wouldn't really be doing anything wrong. It's not like it's some big secret to begin with. You could've told me that you didn't know who Rukia Kuchiki was from the beginning, and I would've sent you on your way, but you chose to tell me the information I asked of you. You even took it a step further by offering to show me where the Repentance Tower is located which now makes you guilty of the crime of aiding a ryoka. Should you be be found guilty of such a crime you'd likely face harsh punishment. What I'm really asking you is can I count on you to be an ally while I get Rukia out of here"?

"…" Hanataro froze. "This really is the ryoka. What should I do…"? He had never had to make such a difficult decision before. On one hand he'd face harsh punishment for aiding her, on the other there was a chance that Rukia could be saved. The ryoka had no reiryoku, but she was able to get past Captain Ichimaru, and by the way she spoke it sounded like she was confident that she could get Rukia out of the Seireitei. "I..."

"I…You can count on me"! Despite his nervousness, Hanataro was able to finish his sentence with unfettered resolve. He knew the reason behind Rukia's imprisonment, but he didn't think she deserved to die for it, especially not when she'd saved a human's life. She had even told him things about the living world that were interesting and treated him with kindness. He had to repay it.

Surprised, Hanataro heard the soft sound of laughter coming from behind him. "Was what I said funny? I was being serious. Maybe I should apologize"?

"Alright, I believe you. You can turn around now".

Turning his head cautiously in case it was a trap. Hanataro was surprised to see a pair of light blue eyes and a black shihakusho uniform. Looking to the side, he could see the red hilt of a sword peeking from the belt that held up her hakama. "She's a soul reaper"?

Maybe it was due to his initial fear of being whisked away to a secluded alleyway with an unknown person, but he'd expected his captor to be more… scary looking. Instead, she looked like a regular person. He'd even say she was pretty.

"Well, do I get the pleasure of knowing my accomplice's name"? The woman grinned teasingly. Her arms were crossed loosely across her chest.

"I, uh. It's Hanataro Yamada, Miss…".

"What a cute name. My name is Anju Mitsukoji. It's a pleasure to be working with you, Hanataro". She held out a hand to him which he shook. He'd never shaken hands with a ryoka before.

"Oh, the pleasure is all mine. Really". Taking his hand back, he nervously shuffled. "Um… so now what happens"?

"Now, we need to find a place so we can talk privately. Would you happen to know of such a place"?

"Actually, I do. Follow me, Anju".

Hanataro walked out of the alleyway followed by Anju. He knew the perfect place to take her to.

"Such insolence! How dare that Captain Ichimaru make excuses for his failure to prevent that ryoka from getting in! The Head Captain should've had his head for such an obvious lapse in duty"!

Clenching his fist in the air, Captain of Squad Twelve, Mayuri Kurotsuchi was in an incensed mood.

"Captain Kurotsuchi! You're adding too much buffering solution"!

"Wha-". Before Captain Kurotsuchi could get the word out, the regenerating solution he'd been working on exploded causing the lab to get covered in a black soot like material. The sprinkler system immediately activated thoroughly drenching everyone and everything it touched followed by the evacuation alarm signaling for everyone to exit the lab.

"Master Mayuri, is everything ok"? A woman with long braided black hair and dark green eyes walked into the lab. While her expressions were often subtle, concern for her captain was present on her countenance. "Here take this towel and dry-".

"Nemu! did you do what I asked you to do"? Not one for exchanging pleasantries when he didn't need to, Kurotsuchi was eager to hear how his lieutenant's assigned mission had gone. Tossing her back the towel, he exited the room with Nemu following close behind.

Walking down several corridors, he made his way to his private quarters intending to bathe and reapply his makeup now that it was ruined, but first he needed to go to his office and grab the file he'd created for the ryoka. If Nemu did what he'd order her to do, he needed to update the file with any information she provided.

When he'd first heard Captain Ichimaru recount the tale of how the ryoka got in, he hadn't paid it any mind as he was more occupied being displeased with the Captain's failure to prevent the ryoka from getting in than he was with how they got in. He'd demanded that Captain Ichimaru be punished for his grievous error. Head Captain Yamamoto did no such thing. It wasn't until the meeting was dismissed and he'd calmed down a bit that he realized that Captain Ichimaru never stated how the ryoka was able to get in, so like any good researcher he decided to do his own investigation.

Lowering her head, Nemu delivered the disappointing news. "I'm sorry sir, but I couldn't find a reiatsu sample from the ryoka that managed to enter the Seireitei this morning".

"What?! You incompetent girl! Why not"? Kurotsuchi demanded. According to the timeline, the ryoka got in some time this morning, he dispatched Nemu to collect a reiatsu sample sometime after twelve when'd finished going over the research team's lab reports, Nemu had returned from her assigned task around four when he'd accidentally caused the regeneration solution to explode due to not paying attention because his brain was occupied with a certain silver-haired captain. As far as he was concerned, Nemu was not only late taking her time with a task that should've taken her thirty minutes at the most to complete. She also had the audacity to tell him that she couldn't complete the task because she couldn't find a sample. Captain Kurotsuchi was furious.

"Forgive me, Master Mayuri. I checked where you said the interaction took place, but no matter where I pointed the scanner, I wasn't able to find a foreign reiatsu signature that trailed into the Seireitei no matter how far or wide I expanded the search".

"Impossible! Even those with low or hidden reiatsu manage to leave behind a residual reiatsu trail". It was true. Reiatsu residue could exist for a few weeks depending on how concentrated the original source of the reiatsu was. "Am I to believe that a ryoka with no reiryoku managed to somehow get past the gatekeeper, Seireiseki, and Captain Ichimaru, and is now gallivanting around to who knows where in the Seireitei? Preposterous! What has the Gotei Thirteen come to? Can't even mange to keep out one simple ryoka, and one with apparently no reiryoku at that". Kurotsuchi continued to complain to himself.

"And another thing, I-... Nemu what is this thing on my desk"? Pointing to a plastic wrapped mass of dark muted orange, the Captain demanded to know why an unknown object was on his perfectly organized desk.

"It was delivered this morning by Lieutenant Kira, sir. He said it was handmade hoshigaki from Captain Ichimaru. He distributed a bag to each of the captains".

"…"

"…"

"Get it out of my sight this instant"! Kurotsuchi angrily bit out

"Yes, Master Mayuri". Nemu quickly took the offending item off her captain's desk and threw it into the trash receptacle.

Having calmed down now that nothing related to Gin Ichimaru was in his peripherals, Captain Kurotsuchi dismissed Nemu.

Writing a few notes into the ryoka file, he placed it back into his desk drawer and made his way to his personal quarters. Removing his captain's haori and shihakusho, he tossed the wet clothes into the clothing hamper for Nemu to wash at a later time.

Heading into his bathroom, he turned on the showerhead. When the water was hot enough, he got in and stood under the shower spray letting the black soot rinse off his face and chest.

"So, this ryoka really has no reiatsu signature… How very unusual".

Lips parted revealing yellow stained teeth.

"Yes how very unusual, indeed".

Taking a bar of soap and a wash cloth, he began washing himself.

His head filled with all sorts of experiments he would like to perform on the ryoka. He'd still keep them mostly in tact so that the Head Captain could question them, of course. One thing did concern him though. If what Captain Ichimaru and Nemu said were true, this ryoka may prove to be tricky to catch, but wouldn't that mean that he'd just have to look for someone with no reiryoku and persuade them to come into his lab? Oh, yes. He would surely catch this ryoka with false gentle beckoning or by force through the use of his Ashisogi Jizo.

Turning off the water, Captain Kurotsuchi dried himself off and reapplied his white makeup. Donning a fresh shihakusho and captain's haori, he made his way back to his office. Checking that Nemu wasn't inside, he snuck up to the trash receptacle and took out the packaged hoshigaki. Looking it over he rubbed it on his haori and was bout to slip it into the fabric of his shihakusho when he heard a knock at the door. In his surprise he nearly dropped the plastic wrapped treat.

"Ah! I-I mean, yes"? Quickly putting the snack into his shihakusho, he opened the door.

"Master Mayuri, the lab team is ready to restart the experiment".

"Very well. Let us head for the lab, Nemu".

Following behind her captain, Nemu could've sworn she saw the outline of something in the left breast of his shihakusho".

"We're here".

Hanataro opened the door to a large wooden storage shed closing the door once Anju was inside. Along its walls and in the center of the shed there were different sized crates that were covered with canvas and tied down with rope exactly like the ones she saw in the open space she'd came across that morning, crates that had their lids ajar, and wooden boxes that were either labeled "non-perishable medical supplies", "rations", or "linens". In the far-right corner, there was a broom and a dustpan. Up top there was a loft with a wooden ladder attached. It stored several boxes that were stacked on top of each other. At the top of the back wall there was a wooden gable vent allowing fresh air to circulate, preventing the air in the shed from becoming stale.

"And you're sure this is a secure place"?

"Oh yes. A long time ago this shed, and several others, were strategically placed throughout the Seireitei so that Squad Four members would have access to medical supplies in the event they weren't able to make it back to the fourth division to restock during wartime. I don't know about the other locations, but I'm the only one who uses this shed. Mostly to store cleaning supplies and any other miscellaneous items I might need for cleaning duty".

"I see". Anju made her way further into the shed choosing to sit on one of the crates that were clumped together in the middle of the room.

Hanataro put the broom he used to sweep the street next to the one in the corner. Walking over to Anju, he sat on a crate that was next to her. The adrenaline having worn off, and not really knowing what to say, he decided to offer her some refreshments.

"Um, I don't have any tea with me right now, but I could go get some if you'd like"? he shyly offered.

"It's quite alright. I wanted to first apologize for dragging you into this mission. I promise the only thing I need from you is to show me where the Repentance Tower is. After that I'll stay out of your hair. Does that sound doable"?

"Yes". The boy nodded his head. "But I'm curious how you know Miss Rukia"

"Oh, it's a long story full of bloodshed, crimes, and other incriminating details. I'm sure you wouldn't want to hear about it". Anju pursed her lips and shook her head side to side.

"Incriminating information? It couldn't be that bad could it"? Hanataro didn't know Anju, but he'd gotten an idea of the kind of person Rukia was, so if the story involved her it couldn't possibly be as bad as Anju described it.

"I-"

"No, no" Anju put her hand up. "I couldn't possibly tell you such a atrociously deplorable story. You're already risking your life to help me, so I won't incriminate you further". The blue-eyed woman dramatically put the back of her hand to her forehead. Peeking one eye open she looked to see if Hanataro would question her further. Having opened both eyes and putting her hand down when she saw he was going to drop the subject.

"Uh…Ok, then. You don't have to tell me, but why are you trying to rescue Rukia if how you met is so deplorable"?

"Atrociously deplorable". Anju corrected him.

"Atrociously deplorable".

"Because she's my friend and I don't believe her crime warrants death. Do you"?

"No, but Rukia never talked about you, so I'm having a bit of a hard time figuring out what kind of relationship you two have. I've never heard of soul reapers and humans being friends before".

"Oh. Well, I'm not human so you don't have to worry about that".

"You're not? But your reiryoku is so low, and if you're a ryoka you can't be from Soul Society, but you're dressed like a soul reaper. I'm just a little confused is all".

"Well… the truth is…I…" Anju hid her face in both her hands shyly.

See the change in her demeanor, Hanataro was on edge of the crate he was seated on. "Is the reason as bad as how she met Rukia"? Sweat began forming at his temples and the back of his neck.

Hanataro could not see the mischievous smile that was behind Anju's hands. She knew the moment Hanataro spoke all nervous and twitchy that she'd have fun messing with him.

Quickly removing her face from her hands, she pointed her finger up and closing one eye in a wink she revealed the answer "was born this way"! Anju laughed at having tricked Hanataro into thinking the reason was more serious. This was too easy.

"Ahhh"! the boy screamed falling over himself. He really thought Anju was going to reveal some deep dark secret that could get them both killed. "B-but you managed to get past Captain Ichimaru. No person who is truly weak could ever do that". Hanataro picked himself off the floor and got back on the crate rubbing his forehead which he hit when he fell on the floor.

"You sure ask a lot of questions for an accomplice who isn't supposed to get too involved".

"Ah! W-well, I'm just curious is all. Forgive me for being nosey". Hanataro bowed his head.

"I'm just messing with you. I really was born this way and no matter what my reiryoku just can't seem to be sensed. It's a pretty useful ability to have. I always win at hide and seek. Anju playfully added.

"So, does that mean you're a soul reaper, then"?

"Do you think I'm a soul reaper"?

Confused by her counter-question, Hanataro wasn't sure, but if she wore a black shihakusho and had a zanpakuto then she had to be one, right?.

"I.. think so…".

"Then I'm a soul reaper". Anju nodded her head.

Sweat dropping at her answer, Hanataro was at a loss for words. "What's that supposed to mean? She doesn't look like a hollow and she doesn't appear to be a quincy"... Is there another option besides soul reaper"?

Seeing how Anju wasn't going to answer any questions about herself, Hanataro decided to shift the focus back to Rukia. He had a feeling that the blue-eyed woman wasn't the type to volunteer information let alone say more than she needed to.

"After I take you to the Repentance Tower what will you do after"?

"After you show me where the Repentance Tower is, I'm going to hide out till the rest of my comrades get here. Once they enter the Seireitei, we'll bust Rukia out and take her back to the human world".

"There are more ryoka… trying to break…. into… the Seireitei…"? The sweat on Hanataro's brow returned tenfold his pupils started to spiral. He could calm his nerves enough to help one ryoka, but several more? What did he get himself into? "No, this isn't the time to falter". Hanataro shook his head and smacked his cheeks with both hands. "These ryoka are going to risk their lives to save Miss Kuchiki. I have to do my part too".

"I know you said you just want to show me where Rukia is, but do you need anything else like supplies..."? Hanataro wasn't sure if he was overstepping this time, but if he was already involved enough to face punishment, he thought he might as well be helpful in anyway he could".

"If it's not too much trouble, would it be possible to procure three soul reaper uniforms". Anju held up three fingers wiggling them. "I need one for a girl a bit shorter than me, and two for boys. One is of average height and build, and the other is tall and muscular like this". She used her arms to show how big Chad's muscles were.

"Ok, I'll see what I can find". Hanataro nodded. "I have to head back and give a report in less than two hours, so I can show you where the Repentance Hall is right now if you'd like? I'll come back sometime later with the supplies".

"Sounds good. Lead the way".

Getting up from their makeshift seats, Hanataro led Anju out of the shed further into the Seireitei.

"So, what does your captain have to say about all this"?

"Captain Tosen told me to not worry about it. That somehow this ryoka would be brought to justice sooner or later and that there are more pressing matters to focus on at the moment".

Lieutenant Hisagi sipped his tea. He and Lieutenant Kira were sitting at one of the Seireitei's tea shops enjoying a cup while they had a rare moment of free time.

"Our captains may not think this ryoka is a serious threat, but I can't help but feel like this should be a bigger deal. I mean they did past my captain. Though I'm sure it was a fluke" Izuru mumbled that last part under his breath. "What do you think Shuhei"? The blonde soul reaper turned to his friend.

"I feel the same. I respect my captain's judgement, but I also want to deal with this threat before it becomes a bigger issue. I don't have anything going on tonight. Do you want to go on patrol with me and see if we can catch this ryoka"? Hisagi looked at Izuru.

"That's exactly what I was thinking". Izuru's eyes shone. His captain may not have wanted him to get involved just yet, but he couldn't let him go after the ryoka alone. He had to help his captain.

Taking another sip of tea, Kira wondered if Nemu was able to give Captain Kurotsuchi the carefully wrapped hoshigaki that his captain dutifully prepared. He didn't know why, but he had a feeling that the creepy captain wouldn't appreciate such a gift. Oh well, it wasn't his business what the captain did with the dried fruit, but it would be a shame if let it go to waste.

"You know. These are pretty good. I should ask another squad member to ask Captain Ichimaru if he has anymore".

Chewing his third dried persimmon, Captain Kurotsuchi was in the surveillance room reviewing live- footage from the nemerous cameras he planted into the Seireitei. So far there was no sign of any suspicious activity anywhere.

"How boring. It appears everyone is doing as they should". Swiveling lightly in his chair, Kurotsuchi decided to see what his own members were up to. He wouldn't call it "spying" per se. Just the captain's duty to ensure that his squad functioned as it should.

Clicking out of the screen he had up he clicked on live camera icon for the labs. Waiting for the screen to load, he took another persimmon out of the bag. Opening his mouth, he dropped it when he heard a voice startling him".

"Master Mayuri? It's time for you to check the results of the-"

"Blast it, Nemu! Can't you see I'm busy. Was there any need to sneak up on me"?

Reaching for a new piece of Hoshigaki, Captain Kurotsuchi was perturbed to see he'd dropped the last piece.

"My apologies sir, but the tech division successfully created the device you asked for".

"You mean the reiryoku extraction device"?

"Yes, sir".

"Well why didn't you say that in the first place? Let us make haste, Nemu, and have someone clean this mess up. I have no idea how this hoshigaki got in the surveillance room in the first place. I should discipline whoever it ones and have them clean the labs for a week".

Clicking out of the tabs, Kurotsuchi stood from his chair, and started walking towards the exit of the surveillance room followd by Nemu.

"Of course, sir".

"It's really not that big a deal". Hanataro rubbed his cheek with his index finger. A small smile graced his lips.

"Of course it is. Squad Four is like the immune system of the Seireitei. Without it all the squads would get sick. It's just too bad the majority of the grunt work falls on you guys. Was that why you were sweeping earlier"?

"Yes. Cleaning can be boring at times, but I enjoy being in squad four. I don't think I'm suited for any of the other squads, so it made sense to join when I graduated from the academy". Hanataro held his hands in front of him. He'd never really been asked why he wanted to join squad four or had someone taken an interest in what his daily duties were. It was kind of nice talking to someone about it.

"You see that tower"? Hanataro pointed to a large tower that was connected by a bridge to a somewhat oval shaped piece of land.

"Yes".

"That's the Repentance Tower. I could take you closer, but I don't know if anyone is monitoring the area".

"That's ok. I can handle it from here. Judging by sun's position I'd say it's almost six o'clock so you'd better hurry back to your squad".

"Right". Taking off in the direction they came from, Hanataro paused. Turning back to Anju he started running back. "Wait"!

"What is it"? Anju turned to the young soul reaper wondering if something was wrong.

"Good luck, Anju. I hope your mission is successful". Hantaro clasped his hands in front of him.

"Thank you. It shouldn't take me too long to scope out the area, and if someone comes, I'm sure I can figure out a way to hide. You're information regarding the layout of the Repentance Tower was easy to understand".

"Oh, I'm glad I could be of help". Hanataro nodded his head. He felt like he should say more, but wasn't sure what.

Sensing his reluctance to leave just yet, Anju gave him some encouraging words.

"Don't worry about me. You'll find that I'm capable of a lot of things including sneaking around. You've been a big help to already. Now all that's left is for me to do my part". Eyes lighting up, Anju remembered something the visored would occasionally do when she was little, and now that she was an adult, something only Mashiro would do. "Why don't we make a pinky promise".

"A pinky promise"?

"Yeah. It's when we interlock our pinkies and make a promise". Holding out her pinky Anju waited for Hanataro to hold out his. Not sure if he was doing it right, Hanataro held out his pinky and felt Anju interlock hers with his.

"Now repeat after me: I promise to meet you back at the shed".

"I promise to meet you back at the shed".

"There you go. Now we both have to meet back at the shed, or that'd make you a liar and you'd have to stick a needle in your eye".

"What! I-I don't want a needle in my eye! Take it back! Take it back"! Hanataro waved his hands franticly causing Anju to giggle with a hand to her mouth. Seeing that Anju wasn't freaking out, Hanataro stopped waving his hands.

"Ha ha, it's just a saying. You don't really get a needle in your eye if you don't keep your promise. It'll just make me worry that something happened to you, so be sure to come to the shed even if you can't get the supplies. I'll be off now. Goodbye, Hanataro". Turning toward the entrance that led to the Repentace Tower, Anju stopped when she heard Hanataro's voice.

"You too, Anju. Stay safe". The boy had an honest look in his eyes.

"Thanks, Hanataro". Anju gave him a gentle smile. "You too".

Seeing the woman disappear beyond the stone entryway. Hanataro checked to make sure that no one had followed them, and ran in the direction of Squad Four.

"What a nice kid… He's so easy to tease too. The look on his face when you told him about your lack of reiryoku signature was hilarious".

Walking past the stone entry way, Anju headed for the red rail bridge she could see from the third archway.

"Yeah, it was pretty funny. Huh? That's strange".

"What is it"?

"There's no one in front of the tower. Shouldn't there be guards or something? Don't tell me they're really banking on a seki seki stone tower to keep Rukia in and everyone else out"?

"It's not that hard to believe. I mean they relied on one man and a seki seki stone gate to keep people out for three hundred years... they probably don't have enough people to constantly be on guard duty which works out just fine for us".

Coming to the bridge, Anju noted how exposed it was. Deciding to flash step across, she landed on a spot that was covered in shadow. Keeping herself down, she walked to the door to the tower.

"Looks like it requires a key of some sort to open. I'll have to ask Hanataro if he'd know where to find it since he mentioned that he had been Rukia's caretaker for some time before she was transferred to the tower".

Taking a few steps back to the shadowed area, Anju took several stones out of her shihakusho.

When walking with Hanataro to the tower she had picked up several small-sized stones and stored them in her shihakusho. Hanataro had asked her why she was picking them up to which she explained that she was going to try to send message to Rukia. Having picked up six, Anju led Hanataro to a secluded area telling him to turn around and no peeking. Extending the nail of her index finger she carved kanji into the stones. Putting them back in her shihakusho when she was done and telling Hanataro that she was ready to go. While he heard the sound of scraping, Hanataro decided it was best to not question it. He had a feeling Anju wouldn't give him a straight answer or tell him to not worry about it.

Taking several steps forward and backwards like a boxer, Anju ran to the side rail of the bridge. With a great push she was able to jump up high into the air. As gravity forced her to descend, she threw the stones into random windows hoping she didn't hit Rukia. When she threw the last stone, she made contact with the side rail and flash stepped across the bridge to the stony archways that made up the entrance for cover. She hadn't sensed anyone in the immediate area, but should someone have seen her while she was in mid-air she didn't want to expose herself to the open in case they were on their way to investigate.

"We're done here. Let's look for more hiding spots then head back to the shed".

"Sounds good. Hopefully Rukia gets your message".

"I hope so too. It's actually kind of hard to carve stone with a nail. I hope it's legible".

"From today onwards, you will be known as Rukia Kuchiki".

Opening her eyes slowly, Rukia awoke on the floor of the Repentance Tower. Using her right arm, she pushed herself up.

"I had that dream again. The dream where Byakuya officially adopted me into the Kuchiki clan. He must be so disappointed. All that effort just for me to bring shame to the Kuchiki name".

Seeing what little sunlight that filtered through the windows had turned a dark yellow, she figured it must be early evening. In an hour the guards would bring her meal.

"I might as well pretend like I've been climbing steps all day".

Stretching her arm across her chest, she was about to make her way to the tower's steps when she heard something land behind her. Looking back, she walked over and picked it up.

"How did a stone get in here? And why does it say "cat"?

Another plop sounded several feet to her right. Picking up this stone she felt something rough on its bottom. Turning it over she saw the kanji for "glasses" on the back. Before she could question what was going on several more stones were thrown prompting Rukia to run around with her arms over her head as she attempted to dodge them.

Hearing that stones were no longer landing on the tower floor. Rukia gathered all that she could find. Someone was trying to give her a message, and she had to decode it. Putting the rocks engraved side up, she read the kanji for "princess", "strawberry", "apricot", and "muscle".

"What the- ah" !

There was only one person she knew that would think to do such a thing.

Hurriedly running up the steps, Rukia darted from window to window to see if she could see the bridge that led to the tower. When she got to a window that had a good enough view, she saw that no one was there. Looking at the stones again, she was sure of it. Her friends had come to rescue her, but the feeling of hope was short lived. Replaced by a mix of emotions from fear, sad, happy, relived, and a hint of anger. She dared not hope that anything come out of it. She had sinned and was determined to atone for that sin with her life. Wiping her eyes with the sleeve of her yukata, she gave the area one last look before sitting in the windowsill.

"Please… everyone… go back…".

"Our search for the ryoka proved to be a waste of time, Yachiru. You said you knew where you were going"! Kennpachi bit out. Having been out for hours with no sign of the ryoka, Kenpachi decided to call it a day and was on his way back to the Squad Eleven barracks.

"I did. I did, but you turned the wrong corner Kenny"! Yachiru defended herself. It wasn't her fault that Kenny doubted her and didn't turn when she told him to.

"Oh yeah? Then why did you lead me into several dead ends"?

"Oh, that? I-, Uh-. Well you see-", Yachiru tried to dodge the question. As she said it wasn't her fault that Kenny didn't follow her directions.

"Save it. We'll try again tomorrow, and this time you better know where you're going".

"Kay"! Despite being scolded, Yachiru was as bright and cheery as ever. She had fun running around the Seireitei with him today.

Walking into the Squad Eleven Barracks, Kenpachi entered his office. With a tap, Yachiru landed on the floor having jumped of his back.

"Captain, you're back. How'd it go"? Ikkaku entered the office followed by Yumichika.

"Pitiful, Yachiru kept getting me lost". Kenpachi pointed to his lieutenant with his thumb.

"Hey, don't blame this on me! You kept making the wrong turn, Kenny". Yachiru pouted her lips.

"Because you kept telling me to turn, Yachiru". Kenpachi countered.

"You're mean, Kenny. It's not my fault that the Seireitei is so big. Anyone would get lost".

"So you admit that you were lost"?

"N-no! Wat I meant was-" Yachiru turned to Yumichika hoping that he'd bail her out.

"I think what the lieutenant means, Captain. Is that there is limited information on this ryoka, so even if she knew where they were its not like you'd be able to pinpoint them out when you don't even know what they look like".

"Exactly! Thanks, Yumi"! Yachiru threw her arms in the air. She had be saved. Kenny couldn't continue to blame her for not finding the ryoka.

Yumichika smiled at his lieutenant. While Ikkaku couldn't say the same. The fifth seat had a soft spot for the pink haired girl. He even modified her zanpakuto and put wheels on it so it was easier for her to carry.

"So does that mean that you're going to keep searching"? Ikkaku stared at his captain.

"Yes. I'll do another search tomorrow, and hopefully this time our search will be fruitful". Kenpachi grinned. Though not as wide or feral as it had been earlier in the day. The promise of battle was always something to get excited for.

"That should do it".

"Seven hiding spots. Not bad".

"Yeah, and they're scattered too, so even if the Gotei thirteen catch wind of our intentions, we can always hide away from Rukia's direction until it's safe to approach the tower. Let's head back to the shed and see if Hanataro was able to find some shihakusho".

It was around 8 pm in the Seireitei. The crescent moon and occasional lit lantern were the only light sources that lit the darkened streets.

"I wonder when everyone will get here? Sometime early in the morning would be best. I'm so jealous that they all get to meet Kukaku. I should ask Yoruichi to introduce me to her, I think I could learn something from her fir- someone's coming".

Anju had sensed two above average reiryoku about three streets back, but they didn't seem like they would come in her direction. While it probably would've been best to turn around, she decided that would look unnatural since there was no other entrance she could've taken to enter this particular street.

"Plan cuttlefish don't fail me now".

Continuing down the street, she immediately glimpsed both soul reapers were wearing the arm bands of lieutenants.

"Crap"…

When the lieutenants were a foot away from her, she bowed her head respectfully and kept her voice as neutral as possible. "Good evening, lieutenants".

Passing by her, she let out an internal sigh of relief.

"I did it ! I thought I was going to puke, I was so nervous".

"I know, I was scared for you. I nearly pi-".

"Hold it".

"Oh my god~"… Anju internally squeaked.

Stopping, she turned around and walked the few steps back to where the lieutenants stood.

"Is everything alright, lieutenant? I hope I didn't do anything wrong"?

"I don't believe I've seen you in the Seireitei before. State your name and the name of your squad including seat number and captain". Lieutenant Kira ordered. He held a lantern up to the woman's face scrutinizing her. Looking for any signs that she was a ryoka.

"I doubt anyone's heard my name, but just in case…".

"My name is Aira Miyagawa. I'm currently an unseated officer in Squad Thirteen led by Captain Jushiro Ukitake".

"And how long have you been on Squad Thirteen, Miss Miyagawa"?

"Since the last selection a couple months ago".

"I see. Next question. What are you doing out here by yourself'?

"I-" Looking down, Anju had a sad look in her eye that didn't go unnoticed by Lieutenant Hisagi.

"I-I did something terrible". Anju got choked up. Meeting the dark haired lieutenant's eyes. Her eyes lightly watered.

"Something terrible"? Questioned Lieutenant Hisagi.

"Yes, I got into a fight with my younger brother this morning and I haven't seen him since. I've been looking for him for a couple hours now, but no matter how hard I look, I can't seem to find him. I'm scared that something happened to him because no matter how bad our fights get, he always comes back to me. He promised". Anju's tone had indicated that she was about to cry. "It's all my fault. Because I was selfish, Yuiji ran away and now I don't know what to do".

Feeling something wet on her cheek, Anju wiped the tears that fell from her eyes with the sleeve of her shihakusho. Sensing that something was in front of her, she looked up seeing that Lieutenant Hisagi was offering her a handkerchief.

"Thank you, Lieutenant Hisagi". She wiped her eyes. "I must look so unsightly. This isn't how a future seated officer of the thirteenth squad should conduct themselves".

Unbeknownst to her, Hisagi was looking at her with a sympathetic look.

"Well, I guess she's not a ryoka if she knows my name".

"What does your brother look like? Maybe we can help you find him".

"Shuhei, what are you doing, we're on a mission. Remember"? Kira whisper-hissed at him. The lantern he held shaking from side to side.

"You're on a mission"? Anju lightly clenched a hand to her chest, the other still holding Lieutenant Hisagi's handkerchief. "I'm so sorry for troubling you both with something so minor". Anju bowed her head. "I'll be sure to clean your handkerchief properly and return it to you". Willing her eyes to water ever so slightly, Anju Emitted the aura of delicate innocence. She could see a tint of blush creep on Hisagi's cheeks.

"Heh, too easy".

Rasing a fist to his mouth to clear his throat, Hisagi wouldn't let the matter go.

"It's no trouble at all, Miss Miyagawa. We'll be out for a while so should we come across your brother we'll tell him that you were looking for him and to go back to his squad barracks. As for the handkerchief, you can deliver it to Squad Nine barracks and ask for me by name. I'll come to collect it. What does your brother look like"? Hisagi knew all too well the pain of losing a comrade. Seeing Aira cry for her missing brother had brought back memories of the scared little boy he was before entering the academy. He didn't want anyone to feel the way he did back.

"Thank you, lieutenant. My brother's name is Yuiji Miyagawa. He's tall and has light brown hair with the same blue eyes as me. He's an unseated officer in Squad Thirteen with me, but he wants to transfer to Squad Eleven. I know it's not my place to ask, but please convince him to stay in Squad Thirteen with me". Anju slightly hunched her shoulders and cast her gaze downward. "I've heard Squad Eleven goes on the most dangerous missions which is why we got into a fight earlier. I couldn't take it if something happens to my dear brother. He's all I have". Tears began streaming down, Anju's face. Taking the handkerchief she gently wiped her eyes. Looking at Lieutenant Hisagi with pleading eyes.

Seeing that his friend was going to help this woman regardless of their self-imposed mission being far more important, Lieutenant Kira spoke up.

"Look, it's dangerous for a woman to be out by herself at night. Lieutenant Hisagi and I will pass along your message to your brother, but on the condition that you go back to your squad, alright"? Kira was agitated, it was his squad that was the most affected by a ryoka getting in. As far as he was concerned helping this woman shouldn't even be on thier list of top priorities, but if Hisagi wanted to help her, he might as well appease them both so they can get back to ryoka hunting. He would clear his Captain's name.

"Thank you, Lieutenant Kira. I'll head back right away". Anju wiped her eyes with the handkerchief for a final time before bowing deeply. Feeling relived at the thought of her non-existant brother being found, she walked away heading back to her non-existent room in the Squad Thirteen barracks.

"Thank, God, Hanataro pointed out the different directions of each squad on our walk earlier".

Watching Aira leave, Hisagi kept his eyes on her retreating figure. "Poor thing, I hope we're able to find her brother".

"What was that about"? Lieutenant Kira turned his attention to his friend. His voice demanding.

Turning to his partner, Hisagi had a questioning look on his face. "What do you mean"?

"We're supposed to be ryoka hunting not helping siblings who've had a fallout".

"I…". Hisagi closed his eyes taking a breath before opening them. "When I looked into that woman's eyes, I saw pain. Pain that I, myself have felt. I vowed the day I got out of the hospital due to injuries from the training incident that I wouldn't let anyone under my command suffer the loss of losing a loved one. That woman wasn't under my command, but it just felt like the right thing to do".

Looking down, Kira closed his eyes at the memory of the training accident. If it weren't for Captain Aizen and at the time, Lieutenant Ichimaru, he and his classmates would've been killed.

"I can understand where you're coming from". Looking at Hisagi, Kira gave him a small smile which Hisagi returned.

"Alright, enough reminiscing about the past. Let's go find this ryoka". Hisagi started walking prompting Kira to fall in pace beside him.

"That's more like it".

The two continued their search stopping several soul reapers and interrogating them the same way they did Aira Miyagawa. It didn't matter how long it took they'd search all night if they had to.

Over 20 pages everyone. I finished adding new scenes, and changed some stuff to make the story flow better. If you haven't already, please give chapter 1-10 another re-read and let me know what you think about the changes I've made. I'm pretty happy with how the story is turning out. I worked out some kinks with Anju's personality and think the changes I made show it off better. This chapter I wanted to focus on different perspectives regarding a ryoka getting into the Seireitei. As for page length some chapters are going to be longer. Some shorter. For the most part I'm going to try to shoot for 15 minimum, but we'll see. Next chapter I'm going to bring some cannon events and explain how Anju knows who Kira and Hisagi are.

A yunomi is a tall Japanese tea cup.

The seireiheki is the gate that surrounds the Seireitei when Ichigo and the others are stopped by Jidanbo from entering.

Hakama are the pants.