The Frozen Whisper Chapter 11: Cuatro, a bleach fanfic

Updated: 11th April 2020 (bigger cosmetic changes, more drama, and new omakes)

Yo! ('-^*)/

It's been a while, hasn't it? But this time it really wasn't my fault! To cut the story short, the hard disc in my laptop crashed （ｉДｉ） and unfortunately with it around 90 percent of this chapter was lost and I couldn't have any data retrieved… Truly a hopeless case!

Anyway, thousands and millions of thanks to:

CookieMonster666 (!my 200th reviewer!), kluxces, Auel, Tsunayoshi, sadbird, -StrawRabbi-, yume girl 91, VampireCabbit, phoenix-aerith, Byakuya Sama, ColourPearl, SoraXNamine, SweetestChick, scarlet white cross, Yaruki, VirgoStargirl, Kita of Nature, Sweet Scrifice, Artemis2013, Lorraine C., Ulquiorra/Rukia, leslie (you haven't left any e-mail, so I answered your question on my profile, hoping you'd notice it!), Anjiska, LavenderSkies, realityfling18, Paper Bullet (Ami), Red Princess, mae-ann, Hitsugaya X Yachiru, kitti0cat, Just me and myself, Amaiii, yuri-chan1713, Sailor Panda, wickedsistah1024 and YOU!

You're all wonderful! Hope you don't hate me for such rare updates and you're still going to read this story! (｀・ω・´)

As for this chapter, it's getting a little bit more dramatic. And hot xD And quite silly.

And I think that for the most part I liked the lost version better, but oh well… Please forgive many mistakes, but I wanted to upload it as soon as I wrote the last word (＞＜;)

Do enjoy! So far it's the longest chapter! Tee-hee (≡^∇^≡)

朝霧 -Asagiri-

The Frozen Whisper
by Asagiri

Chapter 11
Cuatro

After Rukia's supper Ulquiorra went to Aizen-sama to report the progress of his plan. If everything went well, he should be able to execute it soon, in two–four days at longest, provided the other side involved acted according to his expectations. However he was almost sure he hadn't overestimated them and they would rise to the bait. From the intelligence he had received, Kisuke Urahara apparently had requested Orihime Inoue's help in Human World, which brought her a step closer to Aizen-sama.

"I see," his master said and after a moment of careful thought he spoke again, "You have a free hand in this operation, so act however you see it fit. I trust your judgement, Ulquiorra."

"Thank you, Aizen-sama," he bowed slightly. "I shall not disappoint you."

Aizen-sama smiled kindly. "If that's all, then you're dismissed."

Having nothing else to report, Ulquiorra bowed once again, but this time deeper than before, and left the Throne Room. On his way out he passed Ichimaru in the doorway. The Fox only smiled widely in the response to his greeting, as if he said or did something amusing. Thinking nothing of it, he headed to the Espadas' dining hall for late supper.

Almost at his destination, he suddenly heard a familiar female voice calling his name from behind. Turning to face her, he saw the now 7th Espada. Wondering what she wanted from him, he waited for her to approach him.

"Nelliel," he greeted her when she got nearer.

"Late supper, huh?" she asked with a smile, and seeing him nod, she added, "Me too."

So without any other words, they resumed their steps and soon they reached the dining hall. Neither of them was saying anything, but the silence surrounding them was if not comfortable, then neutral.

Ulquiorra didn't know her well, but didn't mind her company. From what he could tell, she was quite agreeable, if not the most agreeable among the Espadas. At least she didn't scowl or scoff at him whenever he was near, nor did she try to corrupt his mind with a perverted blather. She also didn't fall asleep and start snoring during a conversation. Moreover, she didn't take everything too seriously, didn't ask completely retarded questions, nor did she go on about how it was better in some distant, ancient times that didn't matter anymore.

Yes, definitely the most agreeable associate he had.

Ordering their meals, they sat down by the same table.

"So, how are you doing? How's Rukia?" Nelliel asked casually as a start of small talk. "Haven't seen the two of you since the dinner."

"She's doing fine, and I'm quite busy," Ulquiorra answered after a pause, choosing the simplest option. After all, he wasn't going to list her all his observations and the hurdles that came with taking care of Rukia. There were hardly any merits of this duty, and yet…

"She seems like a sweet girl."

"She can be that when she wants to be," he replied truthfully, calling to mind today's breakfast and her smile. Still it was just a small fragment of her, whereas the rest of her was oblivious to her place, temperamental, overbearing, and stubborn.

Nelliel gave him an odd look, and started chuckling. "I'm sure if she hasn't yet, she'll warm up to you soon. Give her some time and encouragement. And be patient."

Ulquiorra refrained from commenting on this. He didn't particularly care if Rukia liked or hated him, it was more that when she was civil, his duty was somewhat pleasant. Also, there was that curiosity of his – how did she act when she wasn't only civil but sweet? Genuinely sweet, not her fake sweetness…

Noticing Rukia was too much on his mind, he changed the subject, "Why have you come back? Aizen-sama knew everything about you, yet he didn't do anything. There was no need for you to return."

Nelliel's eyes widened slightly for a second and she averted her gaze.

He didn't understand it. After all, she didn't seem like the type that liked bloodshed, yet she had returned to lend a hand in a massacre that undoubtedly would occur. Why? He himself didn't particularly look forward to the battle; he didn't mind fighting an opponent on the same or higher level, but slaughtering trash wasn't his cup of tea. It always left a bitter aftertaste.

Yet, being greatly indebted to Aizen-sama, he would do anything for him. Aizen-sama's ambitions were his ambitions. His hands and his sword existed to fulfil them for his master, even if it meant killing thousands. Even if it would be unjust or wrong, or even pointless. Aizen-sama would make it just, right, and meaningful in the end, anyway.

・

Nel looked closely at Ulquiorra, wondering what to answer him. She knew she couldn't tell him the full truth, she didn't trust him. He was the most loyal to Aizen-sama, after all. Though the fact was she didn't trust anyone with the truth. She even had hard time admitting it to herself.

So all she could do was give a general answer, "I know, but I couldn't stay away, not during times like this. Besides, there are debts I have to pay and things I need to do."

Thankfully he didn't pry, only nodded his head in understanding.

In a way she admired Ulquiorra. He was a perfect soldier, the best subordinate anyone could get. Dutiful, always so calm and collected. Deadly intelligent; in the field of analysing, out of the people she knew, only Aizen-sama could excel him. He rarely made mistakes.

But she had never seen any emotion disturb his features. If it was his mask, then it was perfect. If not, she pitied him. He had his reason back, but without emotions he was just a step away from that hateful nature of a Hollow they, even if unconsciously, so desperately wanted to run away from. Part of her fancied the idea that perhaps Rukia could kindle that unfeeling and empty heart of his, yet the other dreaded the possibility – for the girl's sake.

An Arrancar servant chose this moment of silence in their conversation to appear with their meals and after serving them, she bowed and returned to the kitchen.

"By the way, have you seen Nnoitra today?" Ulquiorra asked after some time.

"No," Nel replied. An uneasy feeling sank in the pit of her stomach. "Why?"

Now that she was a lower rank than Nnoitra, he at last left her alone… At last… He no longer had that mad and desperate need to prove her that she, as a woman, was inferior to him and therefore should be at his bidding. Yet, oddly enough, he wasn't approaching her to point his finger at her and with a sneer tell her she finally had the rank she deserved. Not that she was complaining…

"I need to talk with him," Ulquiorra explained. "He took a little bit too much interest in Rukia."

For a flick of a moment she thought she saw something in his eyes or heard in his voice, but what it was, she couldn't tell, as it was too unexpected and disappeared too quickly for her to be able to actually grasp its nature. Or maybe it was just her imagination…

"You mean…" Nel trailed off, furrowing her brows. What did that idiot do this time?

"Today morning, if it wasn't for Ichimaru, it's better not to think what he might have done to her."

She almost choked on her food. Once she regained her composure, she cried incredulously, "He got into her room?!" It was Nnoitra, all right, but she didn't think he would go as far as to invade someone's private room. It wasn't his style.

"No, she left it and he found her in one of the corridors, though I don't know if by chance or by choice. I suspect the latter," Ulquiorra said.

"But why did she leave her room in the first place?" Nel wondered out loud. It wasn't safe in Las Noches for Rukia, a Shinigami, and she should be smart enough to realise this. She had to have a reason. Was she trying to find a way to escape?

"Apparently she wanted to take a walk, but I'm not sure if that's entirely true."

Nel looked at him with her eyebrows raised, but didn't comment.

"So, can I ask you to help me keep an eye on Nnoitra?" he asked.

Ulquiorra's request – an unwanted burden – didn't surprise her, yet she still froze. Nnoitra… He loved to make her suffer, didn't he? Even if he was unaware of it, or maybe even if he didn't understand nor cared how much pain he had and was inflicting on her, on her soul. She didn't want to go through this once again, despite it being inevitable. It was difficult to admit it to herself, but she knew what she had to do, yet couldn't find it in herself to follow through. Perhaps helping out would in return make it easier for her to come to a resolve.

After a long moment of pondering she returned his question with her own. "Why ask me?"

"You know him best. From what I've heard you used to work together a lot," Ulquiorra replied matter-of-factly.

"Work together, huh? Old news and not really true… All I ever did was try to keep him out of trouble. But I did spend quite a lot of time with him because of that, I guess," Nel said absent-mindedly and after a moment she smiled slightly. "I'll see what I can do."

・

Ulquiorra nodded in silent gratitude, though her reluctance didn't escape his notice. Not that it surprised him – dealing with that degenerate wasn't the most pleasant thing in the world. What did surprise him, though, was her smile. Sad. It complemented her eyes, which were full of melancholy like always. Despite this, her face never betrayed anything else, making her difficult to read.

"Anyway, how's your plan going?" Nelliel asked, changing the subject.

"Good," he answered. "If everything goes according to my calculations, I should execute it in a couple of days." On his part everything was ready, so for now all he could do was wait for the other side to carry out their part of his plan.

"A complete success?"

"It would seem so," Ulquiorra replied. If a third party didn't get involved, everything should go smoothly. The only complication – or rather a headache – would come from Rukia, but it would be only after he executed his plan, so it didn't really matter. He had no idea what he would do with her then. Killing her would be the most reasonable course of action, but he wasn't sure if that was what he wanted.

"As expected from you," Nelliel praised him. "Not that you need it, but I'll keep my fingers crossed that everything goes well."

He nodded once again, grateful.

The rest of their late supper was spent in comfortable silence, both of them deep in their thoughts.

"Say hello to Rukia for me," Nelliel said, once they were standing in front of the dining hall, ready to go in their respective directions.

"I will," Ulquiorra replied. That reminded him that Grimmjow, too, had been sending his regards…

"Bye, then."

He returned the good-bye and watched her as with a wave of hand she turned around and went on her way. Soon she disappeared behind a corner.

Returning to his chambers, he took out Murciélago from behind the sash and put it on his bed. Today had been a long day, and that quarrel he had with Rukia didn't help too, though this one was on him. Still, he'd rather his room wasn't this cold… There was frost on the table with her zanpakutō. Perhaps he could consider taking her on that walk, maybe it would cheer her up and in return bring the temperature in his bedroom back to normal.

Taking a fresh underwear from the wardrobe, he went to the bathroom to take a shower. He opted for a warm one tonight.

Back in his bedroom he didn't feel the cold anymore, but he took a blanket to the sofa with himself, just in case. He would read some, and then he would go to sleep.

・

Pressing her body against the wall, Rukia could only stare. Flabbergasted, her brain had a difficult time processing what she was seeing. Is that a '4'? And, once the initial shock was over… oh boy, the sight sure was something. It completely took her off guard. She didn't know what it was, but even if she wanted to, she was unable to take her eyes off Ulquiorra.

What is he doing here? Half-naked, too?

Is that a '4'?

Yup, a '4'… Frankly, she had thought he was at least '3', if not even '1'… Oh well…

Why is he half-naked?!

It took Rukia a surprisingly long moment before it dawned on her that it was because they were in his room, so it was only natural he wore whatever he pleased when in private. Thankfully he didn't have a habit of walking around his room naked…

Not that there was anything Ulquiorra should be ashamed of – a little notion she made, while a blush started creeping up her face. Slender, yet muscular, with his pale, alabaster-like skin, he looked like one of those ancient Greek gods' statues she had seen in one of Ichigo's History books, chiselled by artists of finest skills. His physique was in perfect harmony with his height, and – she was sure – with his spirit as well. When he put his hand under his head, she couldn't help but notice how his muscles moved… With damp hair and… casual clothing, engrossed in a book, he appeared almost like a normal person, relaxed at their home. All Arrancar marks suddenly weren't as discernible, and for the first time she saw in him someone more than just Aizen's lackey.

Then his frown deepened and he slowly sat up, as if he had just noticed or remembered something. Bookmarking the page, he closed the book, and standing up, walked towards Sode no Shirayuki.

Rukia instinctively held her breath. Ulquiorra was very close to her. If she wanted, she could just stretch out her hand and touch him. Such proximity also gave her a better view of his body and his face. With fascination she observed him. Up this close, she was able to notice the slightest changes in his expression and to her surprise she saw he was gazing at her zanpakutō with something akin to curiosity. His index and middle fingers were gently touching the hilt. Then with an even bigger surprise (and worry) she saw his face darken and his body tense. It lasted a couple of seconds. Before she could wonder what it was all about, he relaxed. And again there was curiosity in his eyes. He tilted his head to the side, and she just couldn't help but find him handsome. All of a sudden his emerald-green eyes weren't only gorgeous – they were mesmerising.

Rukia, realising she was practically ogling him, blushed an even darker shade of red. She silently berated herself for thinking such thoughts about her enemy. Yet, her heart was pounding in her chest like crazy (though she blamed it on the troublesome situation, and not his attractiveness). She could hear the throbbing in her ears, and feared he could hear it as well.

Luckily it seemed her Kyokkō was holding up all right, because nothing indicated that Ulquiorra had noticed she was here. When he turned around and away from her, it further assured her that she was fine.

He sat back on the sofa, but didn't pick up the book. He was looking around, when his eyes met hers. Rukia's whole body stiffened, and her heart almost stopped. When he soon looked somewhere else, she realised it was just a coincidence, but still it shook her enough. It was high time she got away from here, before he noticed her. There was no way she could maintain Kyokkō for much longer, too.

She started taking small steps towards the archway and into the front room… Then his quiet voice stopped her in her tracks and again almost gave her a heart attack.

"You're here, aren't you… Rukia?"

Shit… Luckily he didn't sound angry nor annoyed, and more like curious.

"Show yourself."

Like hell I will! she screamed at him in her head, and took another small step backwards.

"That's pretty clever, I must say."

Did he just praise her?

"But don't think I won't find you."

Blast of his reiatsu took her by surprise. It was dark and intimidating, and depressing; it made her hair stand on end. Before she knew it, Kyokkō was dispelled and soon enough his overwhelming reiatsu suppressed.

They stared at each other for a few seconds, until an impulse made her dash towards Sode no Shirayuki, and unsheathe her, pointing the blade at him.

・

Ulquiorra wasn't sure what to think of Rukia invading his private chambers. Yet, weren't it for the temperature in his room rising due to her zanpakutō calming down in her presence, he might have not even noticed that she was here. That alone was praiseworthy.

Not to mention, it was better she was here than in Nnoitra's claws. For a moment there, when he couldn't have found her reiatsu in her room, he had been ready to go and kill that degenerate. Nnoitra's reiatsu, though, was calm, unstirred by anything. Adding one thing to another, he realised she had to be here.

And sure, there she was. Uncertain, determined, scared, and proud. Always so proud. And stubborn. Ulquiorra presumed he wouldn't be able to just talk her round to give him back her zanpakutō, but nevertheless he would try before she left him with no other choice but to settle this with more… persuasive measures.

"So this is why you left your room this morning, isn't it? To get your zanpakutō back." Now that he thought about it, how come he hadn't realised it earlier?

When Rukia didn't reply, he added, "You don't think you stand a chance against me, do you? And that zanpakutō has just healed herself. It would be a shame if she shattered again in such a short time. Put her away."

She didn't want to fight him, it was obvious from her stance and face expression. But if forced to the wall, she would. She was one of those fools that kept on fighting even when there was zero chance for victory, when there was nothing but despair left. It was unfathomable to him. And he'd rather avoid encouraging her self-destructive tendencies.

"She's mine," was her only reply.

"She is."

"I'm taking her with me," she said and started backing away.

"You're not." If she thought he would let her leave with that zanpakutō, she was gravely mistaken.

・

"Am too." Rukia sent him a glare, and tightened her grip on Sode no Shirayuki. She was no match for him, it was painfully obvious. However she wouldn't give up. Not now, not when she was finally clutching her precious zanpakutō. Simply holding her in her hand made her feel complete again. The cool aura of her friend calmed her nerves and soothed her troubled heart. It was enough for her to feel more confident, to feel as if she was able to do something.

She took another step back towards the door, when Ulquiorra disappeared. She whirled around to run away, but he stopped her, grasping her hands from behind, and forcibly sheathing Sode no Shirayuki.

Rukia froze at the contact. All of a sudden she felt warm… no, hot. But it wasn't because his bare torso was pressed against her bare back, definitely not.

"Now, let go," he said quietly, loosening his hold on her right hand a little to encourage her action.

"No, keep your hands off," she growled, finally finding voice in her throat.

"The more you struggle the more uncomfortable it'll get for you," Ulquiorra warned her. And before she got the time to respond, with ease he tore her right hand off the hilt to prove his point. Then, still holding it, he encircled her midsection and pulled close to himself, entrapping her.

"Don't touch me! Let me go!" She panicked and tried wriggling away, but his hold was iron.

"Once you let go of that zanpakutō."

"Never!" Rukia shouted, tightening her grip on the sheath as if her life depended on it.

"I'd rather not use force, but I will, if you continue this foolishness."

She managed to – or he let her – make a half-turn to glare at him, but her narrowed eyes immediately widened, once she realised just how close his face was. She froze, and stared at his eyes, then at his lips that were almost touching her nose, then at his eyes again. She felt her face heat up. Embarrassed, she turned away.

・

Ulquiorra noted her blush with a surprise, unable to pinpoint the reason behind it. Was it because he was holding her close? Was it because he was a man, and underdressed? He wasn't doing anything lewd, was he? He wouldn't step this low to get the zanpakutō from her, he wasn't Nnoitra. He'd rather just pry her hands off; it would be easier this way, too. The only reason he hadn't done it yet was because he first wanted to try and make her admit her defeat and let go of it by herself. Perhaps it could be a lesson for her that obstinacy would take her nowhere. If that failed, he would use force. He didn't have any ulterior motive and she should be well aware of that.

Yet Rukia's face did turn red and her glare did falter. When any proximity shouldn't have affected her… After all, she disliked him, didn't she?

On the other hand, her reaction did warrant some investigation. So, in order not to antagonise her any further, he decided to change his approach. When it didn't seem she would respond to his warning, he tried to reason with her. Choosing a gentler tone, he said, "Is this how you want to spend the night? You won't be able to wear me down, you know that."

To his amusement, she stiffened.

Regaining her composure, she bristled, though her voice was a note higher than usual, "I won't—"

He cut her off by resting his chin on the top of her head. "If you insist, we might as well make ourselves comfortable."

She stiffened even more.

・

Rukia's heart was racing. She could feel it erratically throbbing under her hand pressed to her lower ribs by his hand. She really hoped that he couldn't feel it. Why all of a sudden his uncomfortable hold started to feel like an intimate embrace? When did his dispassionate voice become seductive? Why did totally neutral words sound suggestive – coming from him out of all people?!

A droplet from his damp hair fell on her shoulder and she was surprised it didn't evaporate with a siss. But it did wake her up from her stupor.

"Get off me!" She shook her head, but the motion only ruffled her head.

Without budging an inch, Ulquiorra replied, "First you let go of that zanpakutō, Rukia."

"No," she refused automatically, when in fact she was focusing all her strength on suppressing the shiver he caused by saying her name. Why all of a sudden did she like that he was using it? Why did his voice sound so tender when uttering it? She must have been mishearing things, there was no other explanation!

"Don't be a fool. You have no chance against me," he said softly, close to her ear.

Rukia knew that. She had known it from the moment she had seen him walk into the room. But she didn't want to give up. She had no idea what it was, but he made her resolve wane. It wasn't as if she hadn't seen a half-naked man before – she had seen countless of them. But somehow he was different. He made her feel different. And she didn't think him fully-clothed would change much in this regard. His warm embrace was melting her strength and made her go weak at the knees. She couldn't let that weakness show, and so she kept defying him, even if it didn't make any sense.

・

Ulquiorra sighed, inwardly wondering why he was even allowing this stalemate. Perhaps this was his amends for causing Rukia grievance today, even though taking her zanpakutō away from her would have the same result. Perhaps he wanted to check how far her stubbornness would take her, until she finally gave up. Or perhaps because he actually enjoyed holding her, oddly enough… Her small form fit perfectly against his body. Her hands compared to his were much smaller and softer. Her skin, freezing cold at first, gradually warmed up and now felt nice. Her hair was soft against his check. Her scent, sweet and fresh, entranced him…

Rukia's presence, so close to him, seemed to engulf his senses and somehow made him feel cosy. Her warmth permeated his skin, awakening a certain feeling – a yearning – deep down in him that was alien to him, but not unwelcome. A forgotten feeling that was long lost in the sea of time and in his existence as a Hollow. It was similar to thirst for souls, but then again completely different. Less violent, and far more gratifying.

How could he attain it? Devouring her wouldn't do. It would give him only a temporary satisfaction, whereas this yearning promised something more permanent. Not to mention he didn't want to go back to devouring souls, even if she was a Shinigami and sweetest of them all…

"Stop it…" Rukia's voice broke him out of his trance-like state. She was desperately wriggling in his hold, too.

"You're… hurting me…" she uttered between laboured gasps.

Realising he was crushing her, almost squeezing the life out of her, Ulquiorra immediately loosened his hold. She coughed a few times, catching her breath. He was confused. How come he hadn't noticed he was hurting her? He wanted to apologise, but he didn't fully understand what had happen, and so had no valid excuse.

So instead, he decided to pass it off as a threat, and asked, "Are you going to let go of it?"

After a pause she replied softly, "No."

Why did she have to be so stubborn? This was a losing battle for her, and it was obvious from the very beginning. The stakes weren't even that great, and she wouldn't prove anything with her tenacity. It wasn't admirable, but simply foolish to be fighting until the very end.

Grudgingly he said, "Then you leave me no choice."

・

Rukia braced herself for more pain. Something about his hold moments before terrified her. Not only because she couldn't have breathed. He clearly had intended to kill her, and that was somehow unlike him.

She felt Ulquiorra's hold tighten around her again, but to her surprise it wasn't crushing. It wasn't frightening, either. Then he moved his left hand from hers and onto the sheath, and began raising Sode no Shirayuki up. With horror she realised what he was doing. Her grip on her zanpakutō was beginning to be more and more uncomfortable as he also twisted his hand slightly. The difference in height was doing the rest.

But even now Rukia didn't want to give up. Despite her wrist starting to hurt, she strived with all her might to maintain her grip on Sode no Shirayuki for as long as possible. She was on her tiptoes now, but with his strong hold around her, that was as far as she could reach. And he still had a room to go higher.

"I will twist or even break your arm if I have to," he warned her quietly.

Rukia didn't know why, but his words hurt her more than the twisting wrist.

They were enemies, she was well aware of that, even if he had said otherwise. He might be using her name, but she wasn't Rukia Kuchiki – a person – to him, but an object that was to serve some kind of purpose. Only Aizen's order kept her alive. Once that was fulfilled, she would be back to being a mere trash, disposable. Ulquiorra might have been displeased that Nnoitra had hurt her, but it didn't mean he wouldn't hurt her himself. As long as her life wasn't threatened, it didn't matter if she was injured or her bones broken.

She knew all that, yet when he openly implied it, it filled her with bitterness.

The worst thing was, though, that she was losing her hold on Sode no Shirayuki.

"Shit." With overwhelming heartache, Rukia could do nothing but watch her fingers slip off the sheath one by one, until she was holding her no more.

・

"I told you, you can't win against me," Ulquiorra said gently, almost soothingly, still holding her close to him.

Rukia completely lost her will to fight. Her head that had been proudly raised just a while before was now lowered in defeat; her hand that so tenaciously had clutched her zanpakutō was now hanging lifelessly by her side. Her whole body was slouched, as if all determination and will just evaporated from her.

He brought her zanpakutō to his side and after a few seconds, he slowly released her, making sure that she wouldn't fall to the floor. The moment he stopped touching her and lost the warmth of her body, he realised that, when he had held her in his arms, he felt less empty. It made him think he almost grasped why people found comfort in proximity and physical contact. Curious.

Taking a couple of steps backwards, Ulquiorra watched her for a moment. He expected her to make an attempt to retrieve her blade once again, but it didn't come. Perhaps she learned her lesson.

So, he put her zanpakutō back on the rack, and disappeared in a small wardrobe adjacent to his bedroom, where he changed into his daily clothes. He didn't bother zipping his jacket up, just as he didn't bother taking Murciélago.

Rukia stood still in the same spot. It was almost unnoticeable, but she was trembling. Her left hand was clutching her right arm, digging in her nails – she was trying to calm herself down. She wasn't making any sounds, but he was almost sure she was doing everything to prevent herself from crying.

He didn't want to see her tears, especially since he was the one who upset her. He would rather see her angry, sarcastic, bossy, annoying… smiling.

He didn't pity her, though. She must have known what she had been venturing at with all its consequences. After all, her defeat was obvious from the beginning. She had to face the reality that it wasn't her who had the control over the situation and even over her life.

Deciding she had enough time to get a grip on herself, he said, "Come, I'll take you to your room."

・

Rukia struggled to hold back the tears that were brimming in her eyes. She was a failure. What kind of a Shinigami was she, unable to even keep a hold on her own zanpakutō? Pathetic. It was the second time she lost her, too, though the first time had been by a miscalculation, when she had wanted to save Ichigo. But now? Would she still be worth wielding the most beautiful blade in Soul Society? She could only hope Sode no Shirayuki would forgive her this incompetence.

However, she wouldn't get back into her favour with such pitiful expression on her face, so firstly she had to wipe it off. Not to mention, she was a Kuchiki! And Kuchikis should never let emotions disturb their features, especially when they manifested a weakness. Breathing deeply in and out for a few times, she calmed down enough for the trembling to subside. Straightening herself, she let go of her arm and using the fabric of her gloves, she wiped her eyes as inconspicuously as possible.

Clearing her throat, she asked. "Why can't I have my zanpakutō?" Pleased that her voice didn't crack, she felt confident enough to face Ulquiorra with a scowl. "After all, there's nothing I'd be able to do with it. I stand no chance against most of the population of Las Noches."

・

"You killed the 9th Espada, so that contradicts your statement," Ulquiorra pointed out, and put his hands in the pockets.

Rukia wasn't about to give up, and tried a different argument, "If I had her with me today, I could have protected myself from Nnoitra."

He shook his head. "You wouldn't. And it's for the better you didn't have her, or you might have got the stupid idea of trying to fight him. Fleeing was the only right action for you. With zanpakutō or not, you stand no chance against him."

One on one with just her Spells she could most probably defeat anyone but Espadas and maybe Privaron Espadas. And against both highest-ranked Arrancar groups her sword wouldn't be of much help, anyway. Not without a Bankai, and so far she hadn't achieved it. So, whether she liked it or not, if she was in real trouble, only he could help her. And her zanpakutō could notify him of any distress or danger she was in, and thus help him rescue her in time.

Still, everything would be fine if Rukia just quietly stayed in her room, but her being her…

"Let's go, it's late already," Ulquiorra said, and started going towards the door.

But, of course, she wouldn't comply. She followed him only with her eyes, while she stubbornly kept standing in the same spot. Once he stopped and looked back at her quizzically, she glared at him quite dangerously and asked, "Why are you ignoring my question?"

"I'm not," he lied.

・

"Then why can't I have my zanpakutō back?" Rukia repeated her question in a manner that should leave no doubt that she would be very unhappy if he didn't answer it.

Her silent threats didn't seem to impress Ulquiorra, because he only deadpanned, "I'd think the answer is obvious."

She stared at him incredulously. What the hell was he talking about? What was obvious? Renji could fall for that, not her! Was he trying to make a fool out of her? Did he decide that today was the day he would make her snap by being an arsehole? Because he was really close…

"Now, let's go," he said, taking the advantage of her silence.

"No," she growled, crossing her arms in front of her chest.

・

"Rukia…" Ulquiorra warned.

"I'm staying."

He actually had to process her words a couple of times, and in the end all he could say in response was, "Don't be ridiculous."

"I'm not," she huffed. There was determination written all over her face – she meant it. "If Sode no Shirayuki can't go with me, I'm staying with her."

"I will drag you all the way to your room if I have to." He was slowly getting tired of her obstinacy, and in consequence he soon would be prone to more drastic methods of correcting her behaviour. After all, he could already hear her saying 'no' again.

"No."

His point exactly.

Ulquiorra unhurriedly approached Rukia in an attempt to intimidate her, however she didn't waver – she actually raised her head proudly, as if daring him to touch her. Did she really think he wouldn't do that if it made things easier for him? She honestly couldn't afford being stubborn, and so he decided he would teach her some complaisance here and now. So without a word and before she got the time to prepare herself or even react, he swiftly hoisted her up on his right shoulder.

"Wha—?!" She actually was surprised by his action. "Put me down!"

Ulquiorra ignored her screams and squirms and opening the door, he made his way towards her room.

"Put me down, you bastard! This instant!" Rukia yelled. He held her legs firmly, so she couldn't kick him, but her hands were free, so she made use of them by hitting his back repeatedly. He felt almost nothing.

"You're going to hurt yourself more than me," he told her impassively. "Your little punches have no effect on me."

・

Rukia fumed, provoked by his words. He'd better not underestimate her!

"Hadō—" she started, but before she got the chance to finish the Spell, she felt her body being roughly yanked backwards. Instinctively she put her hands in front of her, and kept her eyes wide-open. The time seemed to slow down. What would take a second, kept on going and going. She saw Ulquiorra's face and his eyes as wide as hers. A question crossed her mind – why was he surprised?

She was beginning to brace herself for the impact, but it never came. Instead she felt another pull – this time forwards. She didn't know when, but his hands moved from her hips – one to her back, the other to the nape of her neck. Her whole body was suddenly pressed against his, her face buried in his chest. There was something protective in his hold. For a second there she thought she heard his heartbeat, but before she could confirm it, his hands were on her shoulders and she was gently pushed against the wall.

Ulquiorra was close, too close for comfort. But his proximity didn't repulse her, unlike Nnoitra's. He didn't scare her as much, too. His stance wasn't threatening, nor his reiatsu intimidating. More than anything else he confused her.

・

Ulquiorra stared at Rukia. She was looking back at him in a mix of confusion and fear, and had her hands up, balled into fists, ready to defend herself. He didn't like that she was afraid of him, but he didn't blame her. His action was regretful, he shouldn't have let her provoke him… Yet, she actually made him lose his patience. She was lucky he was quick to realise what he was doing and stopped himself from cracking her skull open!

He narrowed his eyes at her and told her off, "You're really trying my patience here, Shinigami! Why do you have to act like a stubborn brat?"

Rukia blinked a few times before scowling at him. "Stubborn? Stubborn? Me? That's rich! I try to be civil, even friendly, but you?" She began to jab him in the chest with her forefinger. "Half the time you don't even treat me like a living being! You just order me around or force me to act according to your own will, and if not that you belittle me! And you wonder why I put my foot down whenever I can?!"

To say she was irritated, would be an understatement, but at least she wasn't afraid of him anymore. Good.

Ulquiorra gave her some time to calm down, and once she caught her breath, he let go off her shoulders and gently caught her hand that was still poking him. "Is that all?"

Rukia snatched her hand away as her cheeks turned pink, making him wonder whether it was from anger or his touch.

Eventually she replied surlily, "More or less. I spoke my mind."

Ulquiorra sighed. He didn't want to agitate her any further, so he spoke carefully, "If I made you feel that way, then know it wasn't my intention, Rukia."

When he said her name, the cold fury in her violet gaze seemed to subside a bit, unmasking resentment and with it her unhappiness. Her voice was now quiet, yet strong, when she said, "I'm not an object. I'm not a trash. I have emotions, my own mind, and my own needs. If your try to deny me that, I won't stand for it."

"I know," Ulquiorra assured her. It was the only thing he could answer her, for it was something she wanted to hear him say. He might as well as oblige her, as it cost him nothing. He did find her curious, but never really reflected on her deeper beyond his duty and that odd effect she had on him. Perhaps it was a mistake he should rectify.

Rukia's expression was gentler, though sceptical, so he added, "The only explanation I have is that I'm a Hollow, and you're a Shinigami. As such we're bound to have antipathies, even unintentional."

She raised her brows at this, but remained silent.

After a pause he risked saying, "Still… you don't make it particularly easy neither for me nor for yourself."

・

Rukia narrowed her eyes at his last remark, but let it slide. He wasn't entirely wrong, too. She preferred to focus on his other words, which could be taken as some sort of an apology, even though it was a bit of a stretch. At least he acknowledged the issue, which was a start.

"You serve a Shinigami, even though it's supposed to be against your nature," she pointed out.

"Aizen-sama's different," Ulquiorra replied, a bit stiffly.

Rukia wanted to ask how come, but bit her tongue. It would surely lead to another argument, and they had enough of those for today. So she clarified, "What I mean is that clearly you're capable of, if not a positive, then at least a neutral attitude towards a Shinigami."

"And you're capable of that, but towards Hollows?"

"I don't hate your kind." Most of the Hollows weren't even bad souls, just unfortunate. It wasn't their choice to feed on other souls. She might not be the best judge of characters, but Ulquiorra struck her us such. He didn't seem evil nor violent, just… troubled.

His green eyes were on her, but they weren't as cold and calculating as usual. There was curiosity in them. Since her anger subsided, she again noticed just how close he was. The heat of his body and his pleasant scent surrounded her. It took all her will to prevent her gaze from straying and again tracing his form. She would really appreciate it if he zipped up his jacket and took a few steps away from her!

"But you did say you hate me," Ulquiorra said quietly in a tone she couldn't describe.

Did I now? Distracted by him, Rukia struggled to remember. Eventually it came back to her. "Because you hurt my friend. Not because you're a Hollow."

"Then why do you even want us to be civil?"

She sighed. "I don't know about you, but I'd rather have a civil relation with someone I see every day three times a day. It makes things less strenuous."

・

Ulquiorra considered her words for a moment, while contemplating her soft expression. Her cheeks were again pink and her lips slightly pouted, making her somewhat cute and innocent. He heard himself say, "Very well, I'll be more careful of how I act and speak."

"You could start by giving back my zanpakutō, just saying," Rukia muttered, but in a good-natured way. The corners of her mouth slightly twitched upwards.

He was quick to retort, "And you could start by understanding that I don't have a say in this matter. Rest assured, however, that no-one will damage nor destroy her. You have my word."

She nodded and lowered her gaze, hiding her face away from him.

Ulquiorra caught himself wanting to lift her chin up and make her look at him. Why, though, he didn't know. Since he couldn't find a valid reason for it, he refrained himself from doing it. Instead he stepped away from her, and said, "Let's go, it's late already."

"Yeah," she replied and followed him without even a sign of complaint.

・

They spent the walk to her room in complete silence, but it wasn't nervous nor awkward, though wasn't companionable either. They had had quite an eventful day behind them. From time to time Rukia stole a glance at Ulquiorra, but was unable to read what he might be thinking about or even his mood. He was a closed book to her.

Noticing they were already in the vicinity of her room, she mentioned casually, "It wasn't that bad, was it now?" Met with his quizzical look, she added, "The walk."

After a pause Ulquiorra replied, "I guess it wasn't. Though I didn't appreciate that you wanted to fire a Spell at me."

"I'm…" Rukia started, but the words got stuck in her throat. Yet, she had to admit that her behaviour had been far from exemplary. In fact, she had acted like a spoiled brat, and such disgraceful actions couldn't be excused. No wonder he had lost his patience with her.

While she wrestled with her thoughts, they reached the door to her room. It was now or never, so she straightened up and said, "I'm sorry, anger got the better of me."

Ulquiorra only looked at her, appraising her words.

Embarrassed, she looked away and mumbled, "It's just… frustrating, you know."

"What is?"

Rukia exhaled deeply. "Being…" Realising what she was doing, she quickly shook her head, thinking better of it. There was no point in whining about her shortcomings to him. She would only make a bigger fool out of herself this way. She would sort it out later, once she was alone, so pushing down her emotions and putting on a mask, she corrected herself, "Never mind."

Before he got the chance to say anything, she hid herself in her room with a quick, "Good night, then, Ulquiorra."

・

Ulquiorra raised his eyebrows at her odd behaviour, but decided against reflecting on it. He would most probably only get more confused, and if he were to question her about it, she would only get defensive. It was best to just drop the matter.

A couple of steps away from Rukia's door, however, he remembered that Nelliel and Grimmjow asked him to pass their 'hi's to her. He considered forgetting it altogether, but then he might as well as do it and get over with it. So, back at her door he knocked and opened it.

To his surprise he found her sitting on the floor by the door, hugging her knees.

Rukia looked up at him with wide eyes, but then quickly sprung up and hid in the shadows of dark room. Not quickly enough, though, for him not notice her forlorn expression. She wasn't crying, not yet, but her eyes were moist.

"What is it?" she asked, almost coldly.

Ulquiorra weighed his options in his mind. Eventually he stated, "Something's bothering you."

"No, nothing," she denied. It was obviously a lie, and they both knew it.

He considered playing along, but with a sigh he offered, "You're clearly upset, and I'm willing to lend an ear."

Rukia stood still in the darkness. He wanted to turn on the light to see her more clearly, but knowing it would only discourage her, he didn't.

Ulquiorra wasn't sure why he did all that. Perhaps because he knew she wouldn't say anything, stubbornly pretending everything was fine. Perhaps because he wanted to feign – or prove, he wasn't exactly sure which – that he saw her more than just his duty, to address one of her complaints she had against him.

Or perhaps he was just tired and wasn't thinking clearly.

・

Rukia found it odd – his sudden interest in her. But not entirely unwelcome. It almost made her feel as if he saw her as a person, which was nice in this godforsaken place.

Ulquiorra kept looking at her expectantly, and unable to stand this tension, she blurted out, "I… I just hate being so weak and helpless." When he didn't comment, she added quietly, "Left behind by my friends, I can't even retrieve my own zanpakutō… What does that make me?"

She expected him to deride her, proving she was better off keeping her mouth shut, but he only asked, "So, are you giving up?"

"No, it's just that…"

Ulquiorra took a couple of steps towards her, entering the shadows with her. "Will you cease to fight?"

Rukia shook her head fervently. "No, never."

His eyes scrutinised her, making her have second thoughts about her sudden honesty. Finally he said, "Then you're not weak and helpless. You're too stubborn and prideful to be that, anyway."

She stared at him, completely perplexed. The only response she had was, "And that's supposed to make me feel better?" It did, though. His words made her feel better.

"Do you want me to tell you some empty motivational prattle?" Ulquiorra asked back.

She snorted at the idea. "No, I'm fine." She paused. In the darkness he was somehow more approachable. "That was… oddly kind of you. Thank you."

He nodded.

They kept looking at each other, and Rukia was thankful for the shadows, because she felt her face heat up under his intense gaze. She had no idea why he was staring at her this way nor what it meant. Feeling too awkward, she looked down and her gaze fell on his torso. The memory of his warmth and scent of his skin made her blush spread further to the tips of her ears.

・

Ulquiorra observed her. She averted her eyes, now gazing at some random spot on the floor. He wanted to brush away that one annoying strand of hair that crossed her face, so it wouldn't obstruct her features; so she would look up at him, and so he could read her more clearly in this dim room. He did notice her cheeks hue a darker shade, but was unable to identify the cause.

At length, Rukia cleared her throat, and asked, "So… what is it? Is there something you wanted to tell me?"

It took him a moment to remember why he had come back in the first place. "Nelliel asked me to say hello for her. Grimmjow, too, for some reason," he told her, only now realising it sounded rather ridiculous. Just a redundant courtesy, nothing more; nothing worth of his time… yet he wasn't vexed he was here, telling her it.

"Oh… What?" she asked, bemused. Then she tilted her head to the side, knitting her brows, "Grimmjow?"

Ulquiorra only shrugged, though it was safe to assume the 6th Espada had done that only to ridicule him.

"Thanks, I guess…"

He nodded and turned around to leave. By the door he heard her soft voice wish him again a good night, so he looked back at her. "Good night, Rukia," he said, deciding that he liked the way her name rolled off his tongue.

OMAKE I

When it didn't seem she would respond to his warning, he said, choosing a gentler tone, "Is this how you want to spend the night? You won't be able to wear me down, you know that."

To his amusement, she stiffened.

Regaining her composure, she bristled, though her voice was a note higher than usual, "I won't—"

He cut her off by resting his chin on the top of her head. "Do you want to take it to the sofa or to the bed?"

In his arms Rukia almost swooned.

OMAKE II

"Rukia…" Ulquiorra warned.

"I'm staying."

He actually had to process her words a couple of times, and in the end all he could say in response was, "Don't be ridiculous."

"I'm not," she huffed. There was determination written all over her face – she meant it. "If Sode no Shirayuki can't go with me, I'm staying with her."

Ulquiorra sighed, knowing this could go on forever. Maybe after a good night sleep they would be able to reach an agreement. So he said, "Very well… I prefer the left side of the bed. You take the right one."

Rukia regarded him with unreadable expression. Eventually she nodded her head. "Deal."

OMAKE III

"Never!" Rukia shouted, tightening her grip on the sheath as if her life depended on it.

"I'd rather not use force, but I will, if you continue this foolishness."

・

Ulquiorra with surprise observed her face turn red and her glare falter. When any proximity shouldn't have affected her… After all, she disliked him, didn't she?

To reconfirm her sentiments towards him, he cupped her cheek and gently made her look at him. She didn't resist. In her eyes he saw mainly panic and confusion, but there was no hate, repulsion nor fear. Then something else surfaced… Something that captivated him and drew him to her.

He traced his thumb over Rukia's mouth. A sight escaped her, while she fought back her deeply hidden emotions. He didn't want to let her win, so he leaned in and softly brushed his lips against hers. To his delight, she didn't push him away. Encouraged, he tried again. Soon she relaxed and started kissing him back, sneaking her arm around his neck.

Her other hand still held onto her zanpakutō, even though Ulquiorra moved it behind her back in order to keep her closer to himself. He would have to work on her a bit more. And so, he deepened the kiss.

A/N:

Hope you liked it!

Anyway, I've been wondering what to do with Nel. I mean, she's an Arrancar and all, but she has this special bond with Ichigo, doesn't show any signs of hostility towards Soul Society and doesn't appear to be really keen on fighting… So, what ought I to do with her?

A. Ichigo's ally, but fights on Arrancars' side.
B. Ichigo's ally and fights on Soul Society side.
C. Shouldn't participate in the final battle, regardless of her alliance.
D. Arrancars' ally and fights on their side.

I don't plan anything major for her. She might appear once or twice in the future, don't know yet. Whether she'll live or die, I'll weigh later, but all your comments are more than welcome!

And Happy New Year! Hope that for all of you it'll be just gorgeous!

朝霧 -Asagiri-