Updated: 14th February 2015 (a slight change in the events' order + cosmetic changes)

Updated: 24th October 2016 (cosmetic changes)

As promised, here's the next chapter!

Thank you very much for your reviews! In my wildest dream I didn't imagine I would receive so much feedback, so I was truly dumbstruck when I opened my mailbox. You made my day— no, a whole week! Thank you, everyone:

Sweet Scrifice, Red Princess, Auel Nader, konkira, phoenix-aerith, deirdre's dreams, Psy trance, eeza77 and anonymous reviewer mk.

As for this chapter… Well, it's another one from the category "had to be done", so… yeah… But it's better than the previous one, or so I hope. At least there are things happening, and there's some dialogue, too, hahaha ;)

For more interesting things, you'll have to wait for the next chapter, which I think will be fun for me to write and – hopefully – for you to read. Most importantly: there will be Rukia!

朝霧 -Asagiri-

The Frozen Whisper
by Asagiri

Chapter 2
Machinations

Ulquiorra intended to inform Aizen-sama of the situation as soon as possible, but first and foremost he had to make sure the intruders would leave Hueco Mundo without a big fuss over the supposed death of Rukia Kuchiki. Also, he had to convince them that there was absolutely nothing left of their companion – he needed the leading captains to think that the mission was over and to order everyone back to Soul Society.

However the tricky part began here.

He had to plant a doubt in Orihime Inoue's mind (and her friends' too – the more heads to mull over the subtle hints, the bigger the chance for his plan to succeed), that perhaps not everything was as it seemed to be, that not everything added up…

That perhaps Rukia Kuchiki was still alive, when they were departing Hueco Mundo.

If in the end they didn't get it, then, Ulquiorra guessed, their friendship wasn't strong enough. If that was the case, he would just send a finger or a whole hand or perhaps an eyeball of this little Shinigami to the Human woman with a note explaining the only possible way to help her friend. Then he was sure she would grasp everything instantly.

Ulquiorra returned to the hall where the fight between Aaroniero and Rukia Kuchiki had taken place.

If her companions wanted to look for her body, they would most definitely start their search from here. And if he played his cards right, then they wouldn't feel the need to venture farther into Las Noches, too devastated by the loss of their friend.

The ice on the hall's walls and floor was slowly beginning to melt. Her broken sword was still there, where she'd collapsed. He remembered that she'd been holding the hilt despite being unconscious. It must have fallen down when he'd lifted her. He picked it up, as well as the severed blade that had been cast few feet away. Perhaps later he could find a use for them.

"So Aaroniero has been defeated?" a deep voice asked from behind.

Ulquiorra turned his head to see Zommari Rureaux. "Yes," he answered simply.

"This is how the last of the original Espadas ended… Quite pitiful," the dark-skinned Arrancar commented. He looked around the hall, eyeing the foul remains of Aaroniero. However unable to locate the body of the one that brought him death, he inquired, "Where is the carcass of that Shinigami?"

"Actually, she survived. Aaroniero's report was inaccurate."

"Did she?" he asked surprised, contempt for the Shinigami clearly audible in his voice. "Have you finished her off, then?"

"No, I took her to the infirmary. She might be useful," Ulquiorra replied. Then in an afterthought he added, "Aizen-sama already knows." A lie, but Zommari didn't know this…

"Is that so?" the 7th Espada remarked. "But to die at the hands of a woman. She wasn't even a lieutenant… Truly disgraceful."

The green-eyed Arrancar nodded his head in agreement, but in fact wasn't listening to his associate's words. Instead, he was contemplating different possibilities and solutions, and came to a conclusion that he might use Zommari to his advantage.

Having the higher rank, he theoretically could order those below him, even if they were fellow Espadas. And the man before him wasn't the type to disregard a command, provided it was rational and beneficial to their master. Even Grimmjow was cautious to ignore him, so it should go smoothly with Zommari.

"I expect someone from the intruders' party to arrive here any minute now. Take care of them. With your skills and abilities it should be an effortless exercise," he coaxed him, just in case. He knew the man was rather vain and keen on flattery. "If they ask about the fight between Aaroniero and that Shinigami, tell them he devoured her. Keep it simple."

Ulquiorra's scheme seemed to go well, because the 7th Espada grunted an affirmative response.

"The enemy must think that Rukia Kuchiki is no longer amongst the living, that there isn't even a hair of hers left. This is Aizen-sama's wish." He added the name for the effect and wasn't disappointed.

"I understand the importance of this task," Zommari replied. "What to do with the enemy?"

"Whatever you want as long as they believe in this made-up story. You can either kill them or let them retreat to Soul Society, the choice is yours," the green-eyed Arrancar replied, making it as if his associate had any say in this matter. Truth be told, sensing the strong reiatsu of Shinigami captains, Zommari's victory wasn't certain, but that was none of his concern, as long as his plan succeeded.

His mind was working at high speed as he elaborated the plan's details. "In case they wondered why Aaroniero is dead as well, you were the one who delivered the final blow. He lost control over himself and broke loose, so you could do nothing but kill him, as he posed a threat. Is that clear?"

"Yes," the dark-skinned Arrancar answered dutifully.

"Good. Then I entrust this task to you. Your role is crucial and Aizen-sama won't overlook a failure." With these final words Ulquiorra left the hall. It felt good to have authority.

If things went according to his plan, then Zommari's act itself would cause the enemy to retreat without searching for the body of Rukia Kuchiki. He didn't think they came here to actually seize the castle. Not with this little force, and not when Aizen-sama and the Arrancars had clear advantage. They wished to retrieve Orihime Inoue without any casualties and then prepare themselves for the final showdown in winter.

Unfortunately for them, one member of their little party wouldn't be returning from their little venture.

After arriving at his room, Ulquiorra laid the zanpakutō parts on the table. The sheath was still on the Shinigami – he would have to bring it later.

Quickly changing his bloodied jacket, he hurried to Aizen-sama. His main purpose was to report the capture of Rukia Kuchiki and to suggest the most efficient way of exploiting her, but he also expected to hear his master's opinion regarding the intruders. After all, he might have different plans for them (and for the Shinigami woman, too).

Ulquiorra knocked gently on the door leading to the personal study, where Aizen-sama usually resided during the day, besides the Throne Room.

"Come in," he heard the voice of his master after a short moment.

Opening the door, the 4th Espada entered and respectfully bowed in greeting, "Aizen-sama."

The room was spacious, but not overwhelmingly so. It was mostly white, as was typical for the great part of Las Noches, except for a rich crimson and gold carpet. There wasn't much of furniture – only five bookshelves filled with many thick volumes and scrolls, stylish glass table, and a set of cosy-looking sofa and two armchairs with red cushions.

His master occupied one of the armchairs. He was alone – there was no sight of those two annoying bimbos that always seemed to follow him, drooling all over him. Aizen-sama was too kind to let such trash near himself.

It seemed that his master was reading a book, while drinking a cup of tea. For any outsider it might have looked as if he wasn't keeping track of the situation in the castle, but Ulquiorra knew better. Even if nothing in his posture or manner implied it, the man was aware of almost everything that was going on, probably even regarding the most recent occurrence he just came to relay.

"They will most probably take Orihime Inoue away, if nothing will be done on our part," the Espada spoke matter-of-factly, but inwardly he felt distaste with himself. He had failed, after all.

"I know," his master smiled and returned to his book.

Sensing he wasn't to speak more at the moment, Ulquiorra continued, feeling it was only appropriate to make an apology for being unable to properly fulfil his duties.

"I apologise for my incompetence," he said and bowed, this time a little bit deeper than before, bringing his closed right hand to his chest.

"Worry not, Ulquiorra," Aizen-sama replied, waving his hand in a dismissive manner; his smile didn't fade a bit. "She isn't very important. As Nnoitra calls her – she's more of a pet than a tool. The Hōgyoku, too, will fully awake any moment now." Setting the teacup on a saucer on the table, he brought his hand to his chin in a thoughtful manner and added after a pause, "Although there was one more thing that I wanted her to do… It isn't something I won't be able to do by myself, but she could provide a… shortcut, if my assumptions are correct."

"In that case I have captured Rukia Kuchiki – I am confident that Shinigami can be used to retrieve Orihime Inoue. For now she is in the infirmary after receiving severe wounds during her fight with Aaroniero Arruruerie, whom she defeated," Ulquiorra explained. "But if you find her of no use, Aizen-sama, shall I kill her?"

"Kuchiki, you say? Hmm… Yes, she might be useful," the master of Las Noches mused. "Make sure to keep her alive for the time being." The smile on his face seemed to grow a bit. "The situation has turned out to be far more interesting than I anticipated. You did well, Ulquiorra."

The Espada bowed at this small praise. "I have—"

Suddenly a knock on the door was heard, followed by a cheerful "Comin' in," as none other than Ichimaru Gin ambled into the room.

"Hullo, Capt'n Aizen. Quite an excitin' afternoon, ain't it?" the fox-faced Shinigami saluted. Noticing the Arrancar, he addressed him as well. "Yo, Ulquiorra. What 'r'ya doin' here?" he asked with that annoying smile, which seemed to be always plastered on his face.

Ulquiorra acknowledged his presence with a small, almost unnoticeable nod. He didn't respect the man enough to greet him properly. Not to mention he didn't like him. The reason probably was that he couldn't figure him out in the slightest. Every time he saw him, it appeared to him that the man was up to something and he had this feeling it wasn't anything good. However what it was, remained well hidden behind that creepily buoyant demeanour. Quite often he wondered why Aizen-sama trusted this man in the first place.

"Ulquiorra has just captured Rukia Kuchiki," his master informed.

"Oh? Rukia-chan's ours?" Ichimaru asked sounding surprised, but the damned grin didn't change a bit.

"Yes," Aizen-sama confirmed and then turned to his subordinate. "Continue, Ulquiorra."

The Espada gave a respectful nod. "I have also ordered to put her behind a barrier that will not let through her reiatsu. This way the enemy will think her dead, which might give us time to thoroughly consider the most efficient use of this woman."

"Indeed," his master agreed. It appeared that he was considering something for a moment, but whatever it was, he must have decided to keep it to himself, at least for now, because his next words were, "Take care of her, Ulquiorra. Inform me when she wakes up."

"As you wish, Aizen-sama." The Espada wasn't looking forward to keeping an eye on another woman. A Shinigami, nonetheless… He would prefer something else, something that required an actual action or elaborate scheming, for example, and babysitting wasn't anything close to this. Unfortunately, he had no say in this matter. Orders were orders, and he could do nothing but comply.

"And what shall I tell her? After all, she will ask questions regarding her situation and her friends. Shall I tell her she was left behind?"

"Yes, that'd be good," Aizen-sama replied. After a pause he added, "For the time being let's try and make her feel welcome here. But I must warn you, she's a stubborn one. She won't believe you easily. But if you skilfully use the words, I'm sure that even in someone as pertinacious as she a seed of uncertainty might be sowed."

Ichimaru snickered. "Oh, ya'll have fun with Rukia-chan, I guarantee that."

Ulquiorra didn't like happy Ichimaru. And gleeful one was even worse. Anything that made the fox-faced Shinigami blissful, usually didn't turn out to be pleasant for anyone else. He made a self-note to be extra cautious. Just to be safe.

"Take care of Rukia-chan, Ulquiorra," Ichimaru continued in a somewhat more serious tone, but then added in his regular, jeeringly blithe one, "An' take care of yerself." The illusion that he indeed might be concerned couldn't last too long, apparently.

The 4th Espada decided to ignore his comment. Thinking deeper into it would probably be a waste of time. Ichimaru Gin was known for having a warped sense of humour or actually having none. It was probably a poor attempt at a joke on his part that only the man himself understood anyway.

"What about the intruders?" Ulquiorra changed the subject. "Shall we get rid of them?"

"No need. They know their way out, so let's be charitable today and let them live a little bit longer," Aizen-sama replied with absolute confidence, a mocking smile gracing his lips. "The bigger their hope is now, the more devastating their despair will be later. And I have every intention of seeing that despair in their faces."

Ichimaru chuckled wickedly. "Ya sure like to play god, don't ya, Capt'n Aizen?"

The master of Las Noches shot him an amused glance in response.

"Capt'n Kuchiki-san will go amuck, tho'," the fox-faced Shinigami noticed out of blue. "He won't leave without his lil' sis, even if she were dead." He must have sensed the reiatsu of his former companion.

Aizen-sama looked at his second-in-command and nodded in agreement. "You're right. Byakuya probably won't retreat without her or her body."

"Poor Capt'n Kuchiki-san," Ichimaru commented. Not even a jot of sympathy could be heard in his voice. "I feel sorry fer 'im."

"If I may…" the 4th Espada chimed in. "I took the liberty to leave Zommari to engage the enemy and convince them that there is nothing left of Rukia Kuchiki but bloodstains. They should clash any second now."

His master nodded in his direction with approval. "Quick-witted as always. I'd expect nothing less from you, Ulquiorra."

"It is an honour, Aizen-sama."

Ichimaru snickered, clearly entertained. "Uh-oh. It's Capt'n Kuchiki-san headin' his way… Poor, poor Zommari. Hope his death ain't gonna be fer naught."

After a pensive moment Aizen-sama spoke again, "Ulquiorra, if Zommari turns out to be unsuccessful, use your eye ability. You should be able to forge a fitting image for Byakuya to believe there's nothing left of his sister, not even a scrap."

"Understood, Aizen-sama."

"If there's nothing else, you can leave now. I'm sure you know what to do," his master dismissed him with a smile.

"Of course, Aizen-sama." The 4th Espada would do everything in his might to meet the expectations bestowed upon him, especially after his failure. Bowing respectfully, he left the study.

Back in his room Ulquiorra decided to stay here and wait to see how the situation would develop, and whether there was any need for him to join in the fighting or not. But for now he would rest. His reiatsu had yet to return to the usual level.

Sitting in his armchair, he closed his eyes and tried to sense what was happening in Las Noches.

Zommari was fighting with someone of captain-class strength, Rukia Kuchiki's older brother most likely. By the look of things, he was going to lose – or rather get massacred. It didn't concern Ulquiorra much, as long as he managed to persuade the enemy to believe in the death of the Shinigami woman. If the 7th Espada died, it would only mean that he wasn't strong enough to serve Aizen-sama.

Grimmjow hadn't moved from his last position, so he assumed the bastard was now unconscious. Serves him right. He couldn't care less if he bit the dust there. Actually, he was tempted to go there and make sure that he would never wake up again.

As for Nnoitra, he was on the verge of going down. His opponent was definitely on a higher level than him with his brutal reiatsu. The 5th Espada had met his bestial match at long last. Few more minutes and the fight would end. And with it maybe the nuisance.

Szayelaporro Granz was still alive, but everything pointed to the fact that he'd been defeated. His reiatsu seemed a little bit odd and was moving away from his Laboratory. Had the enemy captured him? Well, Ulquiorra didn't like the smug jerk anyway – his exalted or lewd comments were always redundant and thus vexed him.

As he'd foreseen, Zommari got slaughtered, but his act must have been convincing, for his opponent was heading in the direction of his companions instead of going deeper into the castle. It had been quite a clever idea to use the 7th Espada – he had to congratulate himself on coming up with it.

It seemed the intruders were slowly gathering outside the walls of Las Noches. Those who weren't fighting were waiting for others to end theirs combats. None of them had left for the Human World or Soul Society yet. Ulquiorra assumed that they were prepared to back up their companions in case things went awry.

Before long all the intruders got together and departed Hueco Mundo, unaware that Rukia Kuchiki was still in Las Noches, alive.

This – more than anything else – proved him how those bonds and attachments were meaningless in the end. They hadn't even made an attempt to seek revenge – they'd just quietly retreated, disheartened. It was ridiculous how easily those people could lose their motivation because some trash had died. Or maybe they didn't find her revenge-worthy?

At any rate, he knew she was rescue-worthy in their eyes, otherwise he wouldn't have bothered to even think of capturing her alive.

Surprisingly, they left Nnoitra alive, though he was barely breathing. Ulquiorra wished that nobody would have the bright idea to patch him or Grimmjow up and they would just die from their wounds. If it wasn't considered a treachery, he would go there and finish them off himself. It would take two nuisances out of his life…

In the end the Espada ranks had been purged of three weaklings. A favourable outcome, really. Aizen-sama didn't need trash like this – they would only hinder him.

Satisfied that he didn't have to break a sweat for his plan to run smoothly, Ulquiorra got up and went to the infirmary to check up on his captive.

A/N:

So I've killed the Pumpkin Guy… Yaaay! Is it only me or has he annoyed you as well? By the way, I really hope that in the manga Kurotsuchi will capture Szayelaporro. His words that he'll need the Espada's name to properly label him when he'll bottle him up were simply the best ;D

Oh, and Ulquiorra is kind of manipulative, isn't he? ;) I really like him like this, though I wonder if his manipulations will have any effect on Rukia…

朝霧 -Asagiri-