Bleach is owned by Tito Kubo, however my OC's are my own.
Apricot Parfait
Ch.13 The Dog That Bites The Moon
"By inserting the needle into either one of a person's reiryoku vents located on their wrists. This device will allow the extraction of reiryoku and keep it in a raw state inside the vial so that it can be studied. What do you think, sir"?
Picking up one of the devices. Kurotsuchi held it up to the light turning his wrist from side to side in order to inspect it from multiple angles. Attached to a retractable needle was a slightly bulbous vial about two inches long. Two wing shaped protrusions were attached where the top cap connected to the vial. Once inserted in a reiryoku vent, the wings would extend and contract as the reiryoku was sucked out of the subject by a pressurized device attached to the needle inside the vial. After the meter in the pressurized device reached full capacity, the needle would retract, and the wings would close keeping the reiryoku sealed tight inside the vial. It was quite genius, and for the research lab to create something he'd ask for just a day ago was good time management on their part.
"Hmm... The design is a bit peculiar, but your demonstration was simple and to the point. Put the reiryoku extraction devices somewhere secure for the time being".
"Yes, sir". Taking the case that displayed the devices, the head of the research team responsible for this reiryoku extraction project did as he was told.
With the head of the research team gone, Mayuri turned to his lieutenant.
"Nemu, you know what is expected of you. Go find that ryoka and bring them back to Squad Twelve. If anyone questions you tell them that you happened upon the ryoka and are taking them back to your captain for interrogation purposes. Should anyone prevent you from doing so. You know what to do".
"Yes, Master Mayuri".
With those words, Mayuri left his lieutenant.
While Nemu was trained to obey, she couldn't help but feel a bit sad for the ryoka. No doubt her master would conduct all manner of experiments on them. Some would be cruel and invasive to the point of altering their chemical and physical composition, but no matter her personal feelings it didn't matter. This ryoka's fate was to end up on her Captain's operating table, and she would be the one to shepherd them there.
Exiting the research lab, Nemu set off to complete her assigned task. If she did not bring back the ryoka sometime today, her master would surely take his anger out on her.
But should another being really suffer for something she was already used to?
"Is it dangerous"?
"Of course. We even have one of our own inside the Seireitei right now doing reconnaissance".
"Reconnaissance, eh? Sounds like you're serious, Yoruichi. And you really trust this person to succeed on their own? What if they're killed before you enter the Seireitei'?
"Oh, this person won't die, you can trust me on that. You'll find they're rather… unyielding. Like a certain someone we used to know.
"Unyielding"? Kukaku's eyes widened. A core memory from a distant past flooding her mind causing her to grin.
(Flashback)
"Leave those children alone. Fallen clan or not. It's unbecoming to pick on those just because you deem them beneath you".
"You'll pay for this, Ichirou. Don't think that just because Head Captain Yamamoto backs you up that we won't get you back for this. Let's go boys". The group of thugs left the front yard of the Shiba residence.
"Are you alright little ones"?
"Mhmm". A boy wearing a yellow sleevless haori and green hakama pants wiped the tears from his eyes.
"Thank you for saving my little brother and sister, Captain Ichirou".
"Not a problem, Kaien. If those thugs bother you again. Let me know. I'll have guards from my squad stationed here in case they try to retaliate".
"We'd appreciate that, but lately they've also been terrorizing the villagers".
"I'll make a report to the head captain, then. You won't have to worry about this anymore".
Turning to the youngest two siblings, Ichirou took something out of his shihakusho.
"Here have some candy".
A girl with green eyes wearing a red yukata took one of the offered candies and plopped it into her mouth.
"It's sweet".
(Flashback end)
"Ha! If what you say is true. I want in".
Standing, the head of the Shiba clan walked to where the four brats that came with Yoruichi stood outside the greeting room's entrance.
"Listen up, kiddies. My name is Kukaku Shiba, and I will help you enter the Seireitei, but don't think I'll go easy on you just because you're fresh out of your mother's womb. Got that"? Taking a drag from her pipe, she blew the smoke out with a smirk.
"Um… this person is really Kukaku Shiba"? Ichigo looked at Yoruichi pointing at the madly grinning woman.
"What? Did you think she was a man because of her name"? The cat teased.
"I mean. Well, sort of"…
"Me too".
"Same".
"Me as well".
The teens all agreed. Leaving out the part where they thought she would be a cat like Yoruichi or even a dalmatian who happened to be a sage.
"Haah, you four have much to learn. Appearances aren't everything you know. Now come along. Kukaku is going to show us how to enter the Seireitei, so everyone must pay attention. I leave them in your care, dear friend".
"Excellent, but before we get started. There's someone I'd like you all to meet. You can think of him as your overseer while you do whatever you're going to do in the Seireitei".
Walking to a side door, Kukaku slid the shoji screen open.
"Hello. I'm very pleased to meet you. You can count on me". A man with a rugged face beamed at the teens who had the displeasure of already being acquainted with the man.
"How many days has it been since I last saw Rukia look so alive. Maybe I shouldn't have told her about that orange haired soul reaper that had been spotted at the gate. There's no way he could've survived that".
Lieutenant Abarai was currently heading back from the Repentance Tower to the Sixth Squad Barracks. Earlier, he had visited Rukia to see how she was doing. Under normal circumstances, prisoners in the tower were not allowed visitors, but using his higher rank, he was able to threaten the guards into giving him five minutes alone with her. It wasn't much, but it allowed him to see how she was fairing. He couldn't say seeing her so devitalized made him feel good, but it was not his place to challenge Central Forty-Six's ruling. Just uphold it. That was the way of the soul reaper. Uphold the balance of the worlds and punish evil doers for their sins. "… is Rukia truly an evil doer though"?
Shaking his head, he walked past a alleyway.
"Ah". Feeling something small hit his back, Renji came out of his thoughts. Turning behind him to see what hit him, he looked around but saw nothing. "Must've been the wind picking up debris or something".
Not paying any more attention to what just happened, he carried on till he felt something slightly bigger hit his low back and skittered on the floor. Turning around, he saw a small pebble on the ground. Not sure what to think, he stared at it, but hesitantly turned around and kept walking.
Keeping a slight eye behind him. He stopped when he felt something hit his chest and land on the floor before him. It was another rock. Crouching down, he picked it up staring at it as if the small mass of minerals would tell him what was going on. "Someone's messing with me". With narrowed eyes, he tossed the rock on the floor and looked around seeing no one standing on the walls lining the street, or on the street itself.
Looking to his left he saw something dart into the alleyway that he had passed earlier. Figuring whoever threw the rocks must be that figure, he entered the alley determined to find out who they were and report them for their misconduct. When he was three fourths of the way in, he saw slight movement in the shadows at the far end. Standing straight and crossing his arms to give off an air of superiority, he spoke.
"Hey, you. I don't know why you're throwing pebbles at me, but you're assaulting a senior officer of Squad Six. Come out where I can see you and explain yourself".
Waiting for an answer, Renji was losing his patience.
"Not going to answer me? Well then, I'm just going to have to-"
Feeling a rock hit his shoulder, he grinded his teeth in anger. How disrespectful could one be? Did this person think he was joking about being a senior officer, or somehow believe that he wouldn't report them to their captain?
"That's it. Stay where you are. I'm coming to get you".
Walking further, Renji was now cloaked in the darkness of the shadows. His visibility had lessened considerably, but he could still make out the outline of the figure before him.
Feeling a rush of air, followed by something jabbing the area above his bellybutton, he realized he had made a mistake, but it was too late. The lieutenant blacked out.
Retracting her hand, Anju let the now unconscious man down gently on the floor.
"Damn, couldn't even give the guy a warning. Low-key deserved it though", the zanpakuto spirit commented. Maybe it was his authoritative attitude, or the way he carried himself, but Enma wasn't sure he liked this soul reaper. He seemed kind of arrogant.
"I can't believe he walked into the alley without preparing himself in case it was a trap. Isn't Renji supposed to be the lieutenant of squad six? That's not very good investigative skills on his part".
"I don't think rank really means much here. Those other two lieutenants weren't that bright either. Especially that blonde one. Man, I wanted to shove that lantern up his a-"
"Enma! Your mouth. I need to figure out how I'm going to get this guy to the shed without attracting attention. I wonder if he has anything on his person to hide his hair. It stands out even more than mine. I knew I should've kept the black cloth I used to sneak in with".
"The shed? Anju that's one of our key hiding spots".
"Not anymore. As soon as those two lieutenants entered the shed last night it became a suspicious location. When everyone gets here, those lieutenants will order their squads to check the area including the wooden shed they came upon last night in case any ryoke decided to hide there. I'll have to move our hideout to one of the other locations sometime today. I'll do it after I tell Hanataro. I'm sure he's worried about me since I missed breakfast this morning. I'll have to apologize properly for worrying him".
Anju was about to part Renji's shihakusho to see if he had anything to use when she froze. Someone was coming fast, and it felt like they were headed in her general direction. Quickly stopping what she was doing, she dragged Renji's body to sit him up against the back wall. Crouching down herself so that she would be hidden. Whoever was approaching had slowed down when they were several streets away.
Two minutes later, the figure of a woman wearing a short kimono-style soul reaper uniform and lieutenant's badge came into view. Observing quietly, Anju noted that she looked like she was searching for something even peeking into the alleyway she was hiding in. She saw her flash step down the street when she didn't find what she was looking for in the other alleyway.
Opening Renji's Shihakusho, the silverette quickly checked to see if he had anything she could use. She found nothing.
"I'll just cover his head with my bandana". Untying the bandana from her head, Anju began securing it around Renji's.
"I wonder what that was about. You think she was looking for you"?
"More than likely. If Captain Ichimaru's earlier attack was anything to go by, he's likely not the only one who's trying to capture me. Though, I'm pretty sure he was just trying to kill me"...
"Ha ha, you sound excited".
"Can't I be? Rukia said Soul Society is an interesting place with just as interesting people, so I'd be disappointed if it weren't true. Though, I confess that Captain Ichimaru concerns me. He's definitely the one who's been watching me from afar, but I can't seem to figure out why. How could he have time to watch me so casually when he should be busy with paperwork and squad duties? Something's off here, but what"?
"Maybe he has a twin brother, and they take turns being captain for the day. Wasn't there a story on the news about a twin who tried to take an entrance exam or something for their sibling, but got caught"?
"Yeah, but I somehow don't think it's as clear cut as that".
Having mostly hid the soul reaper's hair, Anju slumped him over her back and carried him piggyback style.
"Alright, let's get our dear lieutenant out of here and see how he feels about all this".
Flash stepping into the light, Anju stayed low making her way to the shed for the last time.
"Thank you for coming to see me on such short notice, Shunsui. I have an urgent matter to discuss with you".
"Of course. What is it"?
Both Captains were seated in Jushiro's private quarters. While Shunsui preferred to sit out on the engawa and sip sake while Jushiro and he talked, he found the smell of their tea and the slight essence of medicinal herbs to not be too unpleasant.
"I've been keeping something from you for quite some time now". Lowering his head, Jushiro felt ashamed for essentially lying to his best friend for all these years.
"Hey, why the down look? It can't be that bad can it"? Shunsui chuckled trying to lighten the mood.
"Well…Ichirou didn't give up his post for the reasons the Head Captain told us, and that's not all. He… he had a child". Jushiro looked at his friend trying to gauge his reaction.
Not sure how to react, Shunsui was momentarily stunned. Softening his expression, he gave a small smile. "And you're going to tell me all about it, right"?
"Yes, of course". Jushiro nodded smiling back. "Well, only what I'm allowed to". Scratching his cheek with an index finger, the white-haired captain gave his friend a look that said "sorry".
"Heh. A story with forbidden information? Can't wait to hear about it".
"I hope Anju was able to make it back to the shed. The water I brought is probably cold by now, but it's still usable. I should check back at lunch time. Maybe she'll be back by then".
"Looking up from sweeping the street, Hanataro could see the Repentance Tower in the distance. Trying not to worry about something he couldn't do anything about, he tried to finish his task as quickly as possible. Another squad member had fallen ill, and he was asked to take their place with delivery duty after he had finished his regular cleaning duties. If he wanted to bring Anju lunch on time, he needed to pick up the pace.
"My my, aren't you just the ever-diligent worker".
Hearing a voice behind him, Hanataro turned to see narrowed eyes and a wide grin.
"C-captain Ichimaru and Lieutenant Kira. What are they doing here"?
"I hope you don't mind if I take a moment of your time. You see, I've been looking for something, and I wanted to know if you've possibly seen it."? Gin beamed down at the squad four soul reaper. Watching his every movement despite his eyes seeming closed.
"W-what have you been looking for, Captain"?
"It's something quite important to me. You see, I've been looking for a mouse. I thought I got it yesterday, but when I checked. I couldn't find a trace of it. You wouldn't've happened to have seen it scurrying around here would you"? Gin's mouth opened as his grin spread wider causing Hanataro to squirm. An action that made Gin feel excited.
"A mouse? Why would I know where a mouse would scurry off to? Squad Four does a good job of cleaning the streets and buildings, and I haven't heard anything about infestations from the head cleaning manager" … Hantaro put a finger to his chin trying to recall if he'd heard anything from his fellow squad members about mice recently.
"He's asking if you've seen the ryoka". Izuru stated impatiently.
"The ryoka? N-no, I haven't, sorry. I've just been cleaning the street".
"I see, and do you always clean the street at this hour"? Gin clasped his arms behind his back walking to the side of Hanataro and leaning down close to his face.
"Uh… yes, everyday unless I get called to make a delivery or something". He gulped. "Does he not believe me"? Memories of what happened last night in the shed flashed through Hanataro's mind. "Stop! I can't falter now. I must be a cuttlefish like Anju said, or I'll get eaten".
Trying his best not to give any indication that he knew something, Hanataro and Gin were staring at each other. One with a predatory look. The other, a prey animal trying to conceal their true feelings from the predator's gaze.
"Please let me go. Please let me go. Please let me-"
Gin pulled back acting as if he hadn't just scared the living daylights out of the young soul reaper. "Well, if you haven't seen the mouse, then it can't be helped. Come along, Izuru. Let's see if we can find someone who has".
"Right away, sir". The blond lieutenant followed dutifully behind his captain.
"Whew. That was close. Does this mean that Captain Ichimaru knows about Anju? But how? She can't be sensed, and she doesn't particularly look suspicious- I should hurry up and see if she's ok".
Finishing his part of cleaning duty, Hanataro rushed to the Squad Four barracks to deliver packages to various squads across the Seireitei.
"Let's enter the academy and live in the Seireitei together, Renji".
"Rukia"!
"Oh, it was just a dream". Catching his breath Renji felt like something was off. Something flat pressed against his back and it felt like his hands, arms, and legs were restrained. Looking down he saw this was the case. "What the? Did someone abduct me when I was walking back to the barracks"?
"Looks like you're awake".
Hearing a voice from above, Renji looked up to see a woman sitting on a low hanging ceiling beam "Wha! Who are you? Are you the one who put me in this state? It's a punishable offence to-".
"You said that earlier when I threw pebbles at you. Do you always threaten people with punishment, or do you actually do something when someone wrongs you'? The woman spoke without looking to him, seemingly more interested in polishing her sword with a handkerchief.
"I-I don't have to answer you. State your name, squad you're from, and seat number". Renji tried to gain some control of the situation despite being flustered. How dare someone with lower rank speak to him in such a manner.
"What will you do if the answer isn't what you expect"? The woman brought her sword up to her face inspecting its shine. Deciding it needed more polishing, she continued rubbing the handkerchief along its blade.
"Lieutenant Hisagi's handkerchief sure does make a good buffing cloth".
"I'll say. It's the perfect texture too. Can you go a little lower"?
"Here"?
"Yeah and go a little harder- Oh ho ho~! That's the stuff~".
"It doesn't matter if the answer is expected or not. The results will be the same with me reporting you to your captain", Renji narrowed his eyes. The woman still wasn't looking at him, but when she did, he'd give her the most intimidating look he could muster. It's how he got criminals to confess their crimes during interrogation. This woman would be no different.
"Gah". A bright light was shined in his face.
"If you continue to stare at me like that, you'll burst a vein, Renji". Anju lowered he sword stopping the beam of light she had flashed in the lieutenants eyes.
"How did you know I was staring at you, and- Did you just call me by my first name?! We're not close enough for that. Its Lieutenant Abarai to you", he bit out.
"Yes, we are. You told me we could be friends because I gave you food when you were on a mission in the human world".
Deadpanning, Renji couldn't believe what he had just heard. He told this woman they could be friends because she gave him some food… "This woman must be nuts".
"Look, I get it you're one of those people who thinks things that didn't happen happened, but-"
"Do you think Rukia deserves to die"? The woman turned to him looking like she didn't just ask him something serious. She no longer polished her sword instead sheathing it and letting it rest on juncture between her leg and hip
Renji's eyes widened.
"In your personal opinion. Does Rukia Kuchiki deserve to die"? The visage of his previous captain flashed in his mind. Followed by the depressed expression Rukia wore when he went to visit her. She had been upset when he told her that the soul reaper with orange hair had been spotted trying to enter the Seireitei. Should he have also told her that one of the ryoka managed to get in? Or would it have been cruel to give her false hope when he knew the ryoka would be captured and tried for illegally entering the Seireitei? Why couldn't he comfort her when she needed him? Why did he always have to make things worse for her?
Remembering himself, Renji shook his head to clear his expression before sneering. "Of course she does. She broke the law and must pay for it with her life".
"Did she? I thought soul reapers were supposed to protect humans. Does it matter how they do it"?
"Of course it does. It's against the law for a soul reaper to give humans their power. Why are we even having this conversation? When I untie myself, I'm taking you to the Head Captain for discussing conspiracies with a lieutenant. Just give me a minute. Ngh ah". Struggling to free himself, Renji heard the light patter of footsteps stop in front of him. Seeing the woman look down at him, he could see slight disappointment in her eyes.
"That's disappointing to hear. I was under the impression that you and Rukia were friends who promised to become soul reapers together. I've been friends with her for much less than you have, but I'm willing to risk my life to save her".
"Save her? Then that means this woman is the ryoka".
"Did you figure it out"? The woman grinned down at him. It was irritating how she didn't seem to understand how serious of a situation she was in.
"You bet I have! You're the ryoka that got past Captain Ichimaru, I have to take you into custody. Stay right where you are. I think I'm almost free. Ah mmrgh". Renji struggled harder trying to free his hands and would've fallen over from losing his balance if the woman in front of him hadn't caught him by the collar of his kosode.
"Whoa, there. If you're truly firm in your belief that Rukia must die. Then there's nothing I can do. I'll let you go, and you can take me into custody".
"Really"? He blinked.
"No, you buffoon! How could you seriously think that Rukia deserves to die? Are you really throwing away a century of friendship for some stupid law"?
Renji didn't understand how this woman could be so insistent in changing his mind. Even if he wanted Rukia to be saved, neither he nor she could change her fate, and it pissed him off how she couldn't understand this.
"I don't have time for this! Untie me now and I'll give you a lighter punishment. Just don't ever bring up Rukia's name in my presence again. Do you hear me"? He gritted out. He hated that he couldn't change anything. That because of his weakness, his friend would die. It wasn't fair. Why was he so useless when it mattered? Rukia had always been there when he needed her, but when she needed him most what did he do? He taunted her and left her hurt and alone in that dark cell. He was the absolute worst.
"Oh, I get it. You're like a dog that barks at the moon, but when the moon comes to see what the dog is barking about, instead of confronting it, you walk away with your tail between your legs because the moon scares you, but when the moon leaves because it's not amused by a dog who just barks, you start barking again as if you were the reason for its departure. The moon doesn't care if a dog barks at it, but if the dog were to bite it? Now that would surely shake up the moons in the solar system. That's why the Seireitei is so scared of ryoka getting in because they represent the unknown which could uproot the system, but what if that dog turns out to be a fellow soul reaper? What then? Would the moon known as the Seireitei be more inclined to listen if this known dog bit it"?
"Is she talking about me"?
Although the woman did not yell at him. Her voice was firm and the look in her eyes was challenging yet soft. She was even smiling at him. So, that left the question. Why didn't Renji challenge the moon? It wasn't like he was scared to; he just didn't think he could. How could anybody bite the moon? Even captains had a hard time challenging the rulings of Central Forty-Six on their own. In fact, he was sure no captain had ever succeeded in changing Central Forty-Six's mind on anything, so if he was the dog in the example. Did it really matter if he tried to bite the moon if it'd just break his jaw with its overwhelming size?
"Renji, we did it! The other children will be able to eat now".
"Renji. Let's become soul reapers so we can enter the Seireitei".
"Renji, please. I don't want to hear anymore. I know my fate, and it's to die at Sokyoku Hill. Just… just stop it".
Renji had heard enough.
"Why are you so insistent on saving Rukia when it's impossible! It's useless! No one can! You have no idea what kind of beasts lurk in the Seireitei! There are captains who wouldn't have to lift a finger to kill you! They won't show mercy just because you're a human! It's a pipe dream to think you or anyone else can save her! Not even me"! Renji panted. Realizing what he had just said, he lowered his face in shame.
"You're just going to get your jaw broken. You wouldn't even be able to bark at the moon anymore". The overwhelming feelings of frustration, hurt, sorrow, and guilt were evident on his face.
"Is that really what you think"?
Lifting his head, he was surprised to see the woman still kept her determined stare.
"After what I just said, she still wants to bite the moon? This idiot. She could die"!
"What if there was a way to save Rukia? Would you still walk away with your tail between your legs"?
"What are you talking about"?
"It's about time I introduce myself. My name is Anju Mitsukoji. I am a friend of Rukia's and although you don't remember. Which hurts by the way". Anju quickly added. "We're friends too. During my short time in the Seireitei I've accomplished everything I've needed in order to save Rukia. All I need now is to secure an exit. After hearing what I just said, can you still say that rescuing Rukia is impossible when the person in front of you is willing to bite the moon"?
"I…"
(Flashback)
"Don't listen to them Renji. I thought your eagerness to answer was endearing. These other students come from nobility. They only know how to look good for appearances and one-upping each other to keep their status. They don't know the meaning of aspiring for something greater than themselves no matter how painful it is. That is why I won't ever stop being your friend. Because I understand you, Renji".
(Flashback End)
"Rukia, was this how you felt when you said we should become soul reapers so we could live a better life in the Seireitei instead of dying in the Rukon like our friends did? Were you willing to bite the moon for our sake no matter how bad it hurt even if it broke your jaw"?
Renji was still skeptical, but if everything this woman said was true. Then maybe… Rukia could be saved.
Letting a breath out, Renji looked her straight in her blue eyes.
"If your plan fails. I will deny having any knowledge or involvement in it. You will break your jaw alone".
"That's good enough for me. I guess I should untie you now".'
"That would be nice".
"And you think this ryoka could be our beloved Ichirou's daughter"? Shunsui rubbed his chin. He didn't doubt what Jushiro told him was true, but the odds of the ryoka being the baby Jushiro met two decades ago just because he had a dream didn't seem plausible to the Eighth Squad Captain.
"I know it sounds difficult to believe, Shunsui, but I vividly remember the day I found Ichirou in that candy shop. His wife was kind and loving, and his daughter had the sweetest giggle. I can't tell you why he had to leave the Seireitei because I swore to him that I'd keep it a secret, but I also swore to him that if his daughter should one day come to the Seireitei for whatever reason that I'd protect her. So please, help me find this ryoka to see if they're Ichirou's daughter. I must keep my promise to him".
"And what if this ryoka isn't Ichirou's daughter"?
"Then… we will bring them to the Head Captain and let him decide what should be done with them".
"I can agree with that. Was his wife pretty"?
"Shunsui, this is serious".
"I'm kidding. I must say though. Being told that Ichirou had a wife, and his child could possibly be in the Seireitei at this very moment is not something I thought I'd ever hear. He was such a dedicated captain, and he prioritized the wellbeing of Soul Society so much so that he never entertained the idea of romance. Saying it wouldn't be fair to marry someone when he couldn't properly dedicate his time to them. I don't know how he could turn down all those beautiful women. The man must've had the will of a sage or something. Remember when Old Man Yama asked him when we'd get to see little soul reapers running around the Head Captain's Office? Ichirou got so flustered he almost incinerated his paperwork, heh heh. Well, I'm glad he could focus on something for himself for once. I wish I could've seen it. What does Ichirou's daughter look like anyway? I doubt they're still that happy giggling baby you saw. They must be all grown up by now. At least by human standards".
"Well, let's see... She had silver hair, much lighter than Ichirou's, and blue eyes that sparkled". Jushiro waved his hands imitating the sparkle he saw in that adorable baby's eyes.
"Ok… and what about her name"?
"Oh, um. I think it was some sort of fruit. It seems to have escaped me at the moment".
"Alright. Let's play a word "?
"No".
"Mikan"?
"No".
"How about Suika? That's a cute name".
"I think so too, but that wasn't it either".
"Ume"?
"No".
"Momo"?
"No".
"We're running out of fruit here, Jushiro".
"I know. I just can't seem to remember".
"I just can't imagine Ichirou would name his daughter something like "Cheri" or "Merron". Poor, kid".
knock, knock*
"Captain Ukitake. Captain Aizen is here to see you".
"Oh, my. I must've forgotten the time". Jushiro started straightening the table. "Just one moment"!
"I'm sorry Shunsui, but if I turn down Captain Aizen it'll leave a bad impression. If I remember the child's name, I'll send word to you. In the meantime, keep an eye out for a girl with silver hair and blue eyes".
"I will, and Jushiro, don't get your hopes up. I don't want to see you sick with grief if this ryoka turns out not to be Ichirou's daughter. He meant a lot to us, Old Man Yama and me, but you and him shared an especially close bond. He was like a little brother to you. Well, I'll get out of your hair now. You shouldn't keep Captain Aizen waiting too long".
Opening the shoji screen, Shunsui exited Jushiro's quarters.
"Good afternoon, Captain Aizen". He tipped his sugegasa at the bespectacled captain noticing he had a package in his hands.
"Good afternoon, Captain Kyoraku, he bowed his head".
Walking down the hallway, Shunsui made his way back to the Eighth Squad. He needed to see if anyone put in a report detailing a ryoka sighting. Hopefully, they described their physical description and gender. That would make his job so much easier.
"Oh hello, Captain Aizen. I apologize for the delay. You can come in now". Jushiro invited, waiting for the captain to enter before sliding the shoji screen shut.
"So, what brings you to my quarters this afternoon"?
Both captains sat at a small round table. Jushiro had put on a fresh pot of tea pouring one for Aizen and himself.
"I hope I am not being too forward, but I wanted to check on you and make sure your health wasn't worsened by the news of your lieutenant's upcoming execution. I wanted to offer my condolences. It's a hard thing when one is about to lose a squad member".
"My, that was thoughtful of you Captain Aizen. Yes, it's a hard thing, but I plan to appeal to Central Forty-Six in the next couple of days to see if they'll lessen Rukia's sentencing. I know it's not my place to say, but to condemn one to death for such a misdeed hardly seems like a fair punishment for the crime committed".
"I agree. I can't help but feel like something more is going on, but when I think about it, I can't seem to figure out what it is. If you need another Captain's appeal don't hesitate to ask me. I've heard good things about Rukia. It would be such a shame to lose such a talented soul reaper". Aizen smiled at Jushiro. A gesture he hoped showed him he wasn't alone in his thoughts involving the young Kuchiki.
"Thank you, Aizen. I'll try on my own first before I rope you in. I wouldn't want Central Forty-Six to think I was ganging up on them, and I'm sure you're busy with matters in your own squad".
"Aren't we all? But when I took up the position of Captain, I made a promise that I'd protect those under me like Captain Yugetsu did. This is one of those times. So please don't hesitate to depend on me".
"That's right. Aizen was in the same squad as Ichirou. I'm sure his untimely departure affected him as well".
"Thank you, Aizen. I appreciate it".
"Oh, I brought you a little gift. A friend of my lieutenant's told her that you had been feeling better, so when I heard the news, I thought I should get you something to congratulate your recovery since you weren't taking visitors while you were sick. I hope you like apricots". Aizen took the package from his lap and placed it on the table in front of Jushiro.
The white-haired captain's green eyes widened.
"I went to the market this morning and the fruit seller told me this particular variety is the perfect balance of- Is everything all right, Ukitake? If you don't like apricots, I can always…".
"N-no no, it's fine. It's just, I remembered something that I had been having trouble remembering, and now I feel relieved. I'm sorry if I made an expression that was unbecoming". Jushiro waved his hands.
"It's quite all right. I know how that can go. I remembered something important when my lieutenant was handing me a cup of tea one time, and she thought I was displeased with it when really, I'd just realized that I sent the wrong paperwork to another squad. Thank goodness, I was able to send someone to intercept the delivery in time. It would've caused quite the confusion".
"Oh, mine wasn't as serious as that. I was just trying to remember a name, but seeing your gift jogged my memory. It's a good thing you came to visit me". Jushiro smiled.
"Yes, well. I'm glad I could be of help. I should get going and let you rest. I hope you enjoy the apricots, Captain Ukitake".
"Thank you, Captain Aizen. I'll have to invite you over for tea sometime and repay you for the kind gesture".
"That won't be necessary. I'm just grateful that you're doing better. Your squad members seemed rather down. It's hard to smile when the sun's not out".
"That's nice of you to say, Captain Aizen. Thank you".
"My pleasure. Take care Captain Ukitake".
Closing the shoji screen behind him, Aizen headed down the corridor exiting the Thirteenth Squad Barracks.
"What a thoughtful person Captain Aizen is".
Now that he had a name, Jushiro immediately called for his third seats.
"Kiyone, Sentaro. I need you to deliver something to Captain Kyoraku for me".
"Yes, sir".
"Yes, sir".
"Here, deliver this to Captain Kyoraku quickly and tell him, "Captain Ukitake remembers". He should know what you're talking about". Taking most of the apricots out, Jushiro left some in the bag Aizen brought and handed it to Sentaro.
"Right away, sir".
"We'll do our best, sir".
Exiting their captain's quarters, Kiyone and Sentaro rushed to the Eighth Squad. The urgency in their captain's voice did not leave them any time to bicker.
"Ichirou…. If this ryoka really is your daughter... How much should I tell her"?
Biting his thumb, Jushiro tried not to put all his hopes on this one ryoka. Shunsui was right. He'd be disappointed if she weren't that giggling baby he saw in the candy store, but a large part of him still hoped it was her.
"Anju? I need to talk to you-. L-lieutenant Abarai! I mean, what are you doing here"?
Hanataro stood in the threshold of the shed unsure of what to do. Now that the red-headed lieutenant of Squad Six was in the shed Anju was supposed to be hiding in, his brain swirled with the worst-case scenario possible. Anju got caught and has been detained in Squad Six where she is being tortured for information by Captain Kuchiki, and she admitted that he was her accomplice. "No! Anju wouldn't do that. Everything was going so well. There must be another reason why Lieutenant Abarai is here. The lieutenants from yesterday must've asked him to check the shed because they didn't believe me. That means I'm the reason that Anju got caught".
"It's ok Hanataro. He's going to help me bite the moon. Thanks for the water by the way. I was able to clean myself well".
"Huh? Anju? And what's this about biting the moon"?
Looking around the room, Hanataro saw movement above to his left hand side. Anju had gotten back on low ceiling beam with one leg dangling over, and the other crossed in her lap.
"Oh, thank goodness. I was so worried".
"So, you're the one who's been hiding the ryoka"? Lieutenant Abarai crossed his arms over his chest narrowing his eyes at Hanataro.
"Oh, come off it, Renji. You're now involved in this just as much as he is".
"I told you, its Lieutenant Abarai. Learn to respect your superiors or you won't make it here long". The man grit his teeth continuing to stare at Hanataro.
"Oh, my sincere apologies Lieutenant Abarai. Please don't report me to Captain Kuchiki for disrespecting a higher ranked officer". Anju's voice dripped with mock apology. "Though, I'm sure he'll wonder how we met and why you chose to aid a ryoka instead of detaining them". Her voice became sly.
"Tch. I'm not aiding you. I'm just making sure you don't break your teeth since you're so sure that you can rescue, Rukia". The man turned his head away from looking at the woman.
"Of course, and I'm ever so grateful, Lieutenant Abarai". She clapped her hands together beaming a smile at him.
Hopping down from the ceiling beam, Anju waited for Hantaro to walk over to where she was before speaking.
"So, what do you need to speak to me about, Hanataro"?
"It's Captain Ichimaru. He's looking for you. Did something happen"?
"I figured that was the case. This morning, I was looking for an exit route, and out of no where I suddenly felt a zanpakuto extend towards my general direction. I can sense reiatsu pretty well, but he was out of my range, so I didn't sense him at all. It was strange. I'm sorry you had to interact with him. Do you think he suspected you"?
"I'm not sure, but-"
"Hold on, Captain Ichimaru knows you're the ryoka"? Renji interrupted.
"I think he does, but that doesn't mean the mission is compromised just yet. Remember what I said about the moon, Lieutenant Abarai. Captain Ichimaru is just one of several. If we walk away with our tail between our legs over everything that scares us, we'll never be able to rescue, Rukia".
Renji didn't like the look in Anju's eyes. It made him feel weak, like he really was a dog who only knew how to run away, but she was right. If they gave up just because someone suspected them, they'd never save Rukia. As it was her execution date had moved up to twenty-five days from now instead of the normal thirty. They were running out of time. Now was not the time to get cold feet. The lieutenant crossed his arms. Maybe this wouldn't be as big of an issue as he thought.
"Alright. I get it, but don't think I was lying when I said you'd break your jaw alone. If Captain Ichimaru asks me about you, I'll deny having any knowledge on the matter, and you better not mention my name if you're caught, or being executed won't be the only thing you'll have to worry about". Renji stared at the blue-eyed woman hard. If she were to imply his involvement in any way, he'd make her grace period a living hell. He'd personally see to it.
"Sounds fair, and what about you Hanataro"?
"I was scared when Captain Ichimaru interrogated me, but I still want to help you in anyway I can". Making a cuttlefish sign, Hanataro waved it at her. Causing the red-haired lieutenant to wonder what the hell he was doing. Curious, he tried it for himself thinking it must be some strange human thing.
Nodding her head. Anju was more determined than ever to make this mission succeed. In addition to her comrades, two soul reapers were counting on her. It was empowering. She was needed, and she would not let her comrades down.
"Alright. Let's go over a game plan. My comrades should be coming tomorrow, and I'd like their arrival to the Seireitei to be as smooth as possible".
"You have more ryoka coming into the Seireitei?! That's-".
"Yes, Lieutenant Abarai. You didn't really think I was going to rescue Rukia on my own, did you? If that were the case, I would've gotten her out by now, but it's as you said there are people here that could kill me without lifting a finger, so it'd be stupid of me to try to take Rukia out of the Repentance Tower by myself when I don't even have a way to get out of the Seireitei yet. That's where I need both of your guys' help. Do any of you know a way to get out of the Seireitei that doesn't involve using the gate? A senkaimon that is in a less frequented area, perhaps"?
"I don't think so. The only way out is through the gate or a senkaimon, and the only senkaimons I know about are closely monitored and constantly dispatching soul reapers to the Human World". Renji sighed. He wasn't being much help, was he?
"I'm sorry, Anju, but I wouldn't know either".
"That's ok, I figured as much. I'll have to go with an option I thought of earlier. It's risky, but we should be able to sneak out if someone creates a diversion".
"You're really going to try to use a senkaimon? But Renji just confirmed that they're-".
"If we have to, yes".
"How reckless… count me in"!
"Of course"!
Hearing a voice, Anju turned to Hanataro.
"I've been thinking since my interaction with Captain Ichimaru… it'll be harder to navigate the Seireitei now that he suspects you, you'll need another method to get around safely. I know a way to do that. Allow me to show you".
"Alright. I'm sure Lieutenant Kira's told his Captain by now about yesterday's incident, so let's go take a look at this new place and move our base there. I'll grab the supplies".
"Hold it you two. I'm coming with you to check whatever this place is too. I'm the highest-ranking officer here, so it's my duty to make sure things go accordingly".
"Whatever you say, Lieutenant Abarai~".
"Why does it sound like she's teasing me"?
"Um, right. Follow me".
"Anju, huh? Well, I can't say that I've ever met a girl with that name. Hey, these are tasty". Shunsui chewed a piece apricot.
knock, knock*
"May I come in, sir"?
"Nanao, you have to try these apricots that Jushiro received as a gift from Captain Aizen. They're sweet and juicy".
"No thank you. I checked the reports for the day, and there have been no sighting of the ryoka. Why did you ask me to do such a thing? You didn't seem too concerned when you first heard the news that a ryoka entered the Seireitei".
"What, maybe I've had a change of heart".
"I don't believe you, sir".
"My, ever the perceptive one, Nanao, but don't worry yourself over what's in my heart or not. This isn't' something you need to think too hard about. Just keep an eye out for any reports with the description I told you about".
"Alright, sir".
"Here, take this".
Tossing his lieutenant an apricot. She caught it.
"I said I didn't want one".
"Sure you do. It'll sweeten the rest of your day my sweet Nanao".
"You're incorrigible, sir".
"Why thank you, my wonderful lovel-"
"That wasn't a compliment".
"You're mean, Nanao~". The Captain whined.
Entering his office, Aizen saw his lieutenant brewing tea.
"Hello, Momo". He made his way behind his desk.
"Wha! Stopping what she was doing, his lieutenant turned to him. "You scared me, Captain Aizen", she pouted.
"Ha ha. I'm sorry, Momo. I didn't mean to startle you". He lightly chuckled. "I've just come back from my visit with Captain Ukitake. I didn't expect that you'd still be here. It's almost time for dinner isn't it"?
"Oh. Well. I wanted to wait for you and check up on you. I've barely seen you all day today since I had to go to a lieutenant's meeting and run errands all day. Forgive me, Captain".
"There's nothing to apologize about. You were just doing your job, and we can't control how busy our days will be". Seeing that his lieutenant was staring at the pile of apricots in the basket on his desk with a look of hunger in her eyes. "She must've been so busy today that she didn't have time to eat properly". "Would you like some, Momo? I bought them earlier and gave some to Captain Ukitake as a congratulatory gift for recovering, but since I still have so many left over, I'm at a loss for what to do with them. I can only eat so many on my own, you see. How about we have some with our tea"?
"I'd love some, Captain. The tea will be ready in a minute. I'll bring it to you".
"Sounds good", Aizen nodded.
When the tea finished steeping, Momo grabbed a tray and placed napkins, two yunomi, and a kettle on it bringing it to her Captain's desk.
"Here you go, Captain. I hope it isn't too hot for you"?
"It's fine, Momo. Why don't you have a seat, so we can share these wonderful apricots".
While his lieutenant was sitting down, Aizen took an apricot from the pile placing it on the napkin in front of her.
Taking one for himself he twisted it in half, taking a bite.
"Delicious. How's yours Momo"? He inquired.
"Oh, uh I haven't eaten it yet… Ah, I mean. I'll take a bite right now". Momo scrambled. She had been lost in thought, mesmerized by the way her captain was eating the apricot. From the way the juice from the fruit moistened his lips shined like the luster on porcelain to the way his eyes indicated he was pleased with the flavor. It made Momo's heart flutter. "He's so perfect"…
Taking a bite herself, Momo found the taste to be sweet with a light tartness to it.
"I can tell by your expression that you like it. I was surprised myself. Usually, apricots are tart and it can be tricky to judge if they are sweet or not, but I find this particular variety to be the perfect balance of sweet and tart. The more I chew, the more these two opposing flavors blend and become something new entirely It's rather unique.".
"Yes, I agree. And it's so juicy, too".
"You know, Momo. I used to not like apricots".
"You didn't, Captain"?
"No, I thought they were a strange fruit. Where I lived in the Rukon District. There was an apricot tree, but because the conditions weren't optimal, the fruit it bore was small and sour. I found the taste unpleasant, but it was the only thing we had to look forward to in the summertime. In the Rukon, they were nicknamed as "the poor man's cherry blossoms". We'd even have viewing parties pretending those apricot blossoms were cherry blossoms and we'd drink cheap sake and eat homemade mochi under them pretending that we were nobility, but no matter how hard I tried to convince myself. I realized that an apricot blossom could never be a cherry blossom. I came to resent those apricot blossoms because I couldn't see them the way others could".
"Oh Captain… I've never heard him tell this story before".
"But one day, As I was walking, I stumbled upon a lone apricot tree and noticed that it bore something I'd never seen before. On its branches were those same small bitter apricots I had seen in my home district in the Rukon, but on its lowest branch hidden among the blossoms there was an apricot that looked different from the others. Despite its struggling brethren it looked like it was determined to escape its fate. As if it were defying the very laws of nature itself. Intrigued, I kept coming back to that apricot tree, and little by little that tiny apricot grew while the others stayed small and bitter. I couldn't believe it. Something that shouldn't be possible was happening before my very eyes. I then made the decision that when that apricot fully matured, I'd be the one to pluck it from its branch and taste it". Aizen took a sip of tea.
"So… did you end up picking it? How did it taste, Captain"? Momo was fully invested in the story. It wasn't often her captain told her about his past, but when she did, she found his stories to be inspiring. She was sure her captain would tell her that it was the best apricot he ever tasted, and it was what made him change his initial opinion on the fruit.
Putting his yunomi down, Aizen smiled at her "Not yet. It's been a while since I've checked on the apricot myself, but something tells me that it will finish maturing soon, and it will be the most delicious apricot I've ever tasted".
"Oh, I guess I was wrong".
Taking another apricot from the pile, Aizen held it in his palm looking at it as if it were the most precious thing. Momo found his actions towards the orange fruit endearing. She had no idea that something so small could inspire such fond memories in her captain. It made her happy that he thought their relationship close enough to share such intimate details with her.
"You know, Momo. Whenever I face something challenging, I always remember that little apricot, that despite the small bitter fruit it was expected to turn into, was able to defy those pre-determined expectations and become something splendid. It gives me hope that I too can achieve splendid things one day, and I hope I can inspire that same feeling in our squad members as well". He smiled warmly at his lieutenant still holding the precious apricot.
"That was a lovely story, Captain Aizen".
"Ha ha, I'm glad you think so, but I also think peaches are quite delicious in their own unique way. Don't you agree, Momo"? He smiled at her.
Blushing, the dark-haired lieutenant patted her cheeks to make the flushed tint go away. "Y-yes, captain. I actually prefer peaches over apricots, and they're more versatile as you can eat them in many different ways".
"Is that so? Next time I'll have to bring some peaches so we can eat them with our tea. Would you like that?
"Yes, Captain. I'd like that very much. Though it doesn't really matter to me which fruit you bring. I enjoy drinking tea with you like this and hearing your stories". The lieutenant smiled brightly at her captain. Before her Captain could say anything. The sound of a bell could be heard through out the barracks.
"Oh, it sounds like the dinner bell has rung. Why don't you go eat, Momo. I have some paperwork to finish up, so I'll eat sometime later".
"Oh, yes, sir. Thank you for the apricot. I quite enjoyed it".
"Here, take some more with you". Aizen handed three more apricots to the dark-haired woman.
"Thank you, Captain. Goodbye".
"Goodbye, Momo. Have a nice dinner".
Watching the back of his lieutenant leave, Aizen opened one of his desk drawers and lifted a hidden compartment pulling out a map that had been marked in different colored ink and dotted with unknown symbols. Taking his index finger, he traced a newly marked area on the map tapping his finger where it ended.
"I see. It appears you've come up with quite the strategy. You may just be able to get what you came here for, but I think you'll find that no one ever truly escapes their fate. So keep maturing my little apricot. I look forward to seeing just how much you've grown since I last saw you.