Hello everyone :)

Here goes Chapter VIII

Usual disclaimer, reminder and warnings.

Friendly reminder: this story will be slightly AU and some characters might be OOC. For anyone who is not into YAOI, please do not go or read any further, this is not going to be your cup of tea :)

Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach or any of its characters, they all belong to Tite Kubo-Sensei etc., etc.

WARNINGS: Spoiler alert for anyone who is not up to date with the manga and only watched the anime! Somewhere along the way might contain but is not limited to include dark themes, suicidal thoughts, heavy sexual contest, yaoi (again xD) and some other themes not suitable for under-age reader. Read at your own risk and discretion! And if you don't like, please don't hate too much :3

I would like to dedicate this chapter to Tite Kubo-Sensei. Thank You for Your creation which inspired this story and many more.

I wish, to everyone who celebrates and also to those who do not, a remarkable Christmas Eve filled with happiness and joy and Merry Christmas to everyone :D

Chapter VIII

Shirosaki had went in the opposite direction from Ossan and Masaki, choosing to enter the forest, where he could open a Garganta unnoticed. The breeze was caressing his form bringing a dash of fresh air his way. It was a really nice day. Excellent for scouting.

Entering the forest, he looked around to assure no one was present, he also searched with his senses. Nothing. Perfect. With a motion of his hand a Garganta opened right in front of him. Heh, boy was he ever glad he inherited the best of both worlds. In his humble opinion, Garganta's were ideal for traveling. Flawless and precise without the drawbacks of Senkaimon's which were constantly supervised.

He came right where he wanted, back at the destroyed mansion. He was not expecting to find many clues other than what they had already gathered with their wits. But, heck, it was way better then shopping.

Using his heightened instincts and senses he searched every nook and cranny. A few scrapes here and there. Hmm… Aha! Would you look at that, a medallion with the Quincy insignia. It was easy to tell the item was new and not used to its full capacity. He'll get this little doodah to Ossan. If anyone can figure out how to use it, it will be him.

'I could give it a shot. But, I'm no Quincy expert. Meh, he'll figure something out. Well, he'll have to if he wants to get more info.'

Satisfied with his conclusion, he searched on.

Three hours later, he finally stopped. He found not even one additional lead. There was residue reiatsu and reishi, yet nothing he could work with. He moved to the messed-up garden and was about to open a Garganta for his next task when he stopped dead in his tracks. He was so stupid. So far, he had been looking around the mansion and its close surroundings, but he never thought of looking outside. If he remembered correctly, there was supposed to be more. The secret passage was already inspected, so, no that was not it.

Rather, it was the plantation on the opposite side of the house's entrance, the triangular part at the bottom of the star. Heh, as expected, a green tea plantation. A little further ahead of the tea plantation was a tall hedge maze. The thing was really huge and over 30 feet! Sheesh! Talk about complex. That's not something you see every day. A woodland extended beyond that point for as far as the eye could see.

Without a second thought, Shirosaki moved on to the tea plantation. Nothing here either. Next was the hedge maze. Really? How big is this maze? Oh well, he would use his skills to avoid losing time and getting lost within the labyrinth. Using his reiatsu and the reishi around he was able to jump high above the hedge and explore to his heats' content. It did take another hour since he left no stone unturned. The outcome were just a few scattered pieces of fabric. He had absolutely no idea whether these pieces used to belong to the household members or to the intruders. Yet another clue for Ossan. Joy.

Here comes the last site, the dense forest. No way would he be able to explore it from above. The trees were so tightly packed and overgrown it made it impenetrable, not to mention creepy. Even the suns' rays were not enough to pass through the thick branches which were so intricately fastened together. Seriously! If you had a few loose screws and wanted to check which branches belonged to which tree you'd go even more nuts. No lucid individual would scrutinize such an absurdity.

'Che. I'll have to do this the old-fashioned way. Sightseeing on foot. Yay me. Thank the sweet, whatever and whoever I should thank, for Shunpo and reiatsu. If I had no other option but to go through this jungle-like part with no reiatsu, I'd go bazooka. Now that I think about it, maybe it wouldn't be such a bad idea. Blow the whole thing up, problem solved. Nah, then I wouldn't be able to find any traces from the attackers. Damn it! Old-school with a hint of Shunpo it is.'

Poor Shirosaki. He was truly not fond of enclosed spaces like this one. They gave you the false feeling of being in the open, but were closed from all angles. Perfect for ambushes and scouting's.

'There better be something useful here, else I may be tempted to burst this place into nothingness.'

He finally entered the forest. Of course, the area around the entrance yielded zero results. The farther he went the more he had this sensation of foreboding. Something was there or at least there used to be. Encouraged, he continued with added fervor. At this point, Shirosaki was hoping for anything. An assault would be most welcomed. At least it would serve to take away some of the anxiety from his mind.

Suddenly, something hit his metaphorical radar. A reiatsu imprint. It wasn't particularly strong per se. The user must have been hiding it and quite well at that, if the frustrating bits were an indication. But that meant he was on the right track! Ha! He went deeper, following the precious trail. His instincts were ablaze, overjoyed at the prospect of getting somewhere. There was also a nagging feeling coming from his instincts, begging and poking in the futile hopes of gaining his attention.

His overheated instincts were screaming: 'Fishy! Fishy! Something's fishy with this reiatsu!'

He had to stop and figuratively slap himself. Hey! A guy needs to know when to pull the breaks and do it without causing unnecessary bodily harm to oneself. That would be counterproductive. That's what you use your enemies for, they make excellent punching bags. Either enemies or really annoying, bothersome and infuriating people. Although, modern times prevent you from actually hurting them. 'Cursed new age and its laws!' Wait, there was always the solution to hit them and say 'There was a fly.' or, his favorite 'Mosquito!'

Indeed, it was time to cool off. All these thoughts were not helping him concentrate. Shirosaki closed his eyes and took several deep breaths. Finding himself relaxed, he opened his eyes and moved forward. It was about time to finish this tedious task and get to the next. Alert and prepared he went ahead. The residue was getting stronger, just like the feeling of familiarity.

So, that was the purpose of the nagging sensation. It was telling him he knew the owner of the reiatsu he was tracking down. Good. By the end of the day, he would know whose head he was after.

By now, he reached the heart of the forest and the reiatsu leftover was at its peak. Man, whoever it belonged to, must have been into espionage and secrecy. Why else would anyone allow themselves to be less cautious in the wilderness? There was a large clearing right in front of him in its middle stood a bush surrounded by many stones placed in a large circle.

Shirosaki was no expert, but even he was able to tell the gravels were not a part of the original landscape, meaning these were brought from another location. Interesting. He'd say this place was used for meetings. Perhaps it was still used. He came in direct contact with the closest stone. Judging by the reiatsu on top of it, he'd say this place had not been used for its purpose in a long time. That did not mean another person could not have found it and sat while contemplating or planning.

He went around from his left. After the fifth stone he finally got a grip on the reiatsu he had been following. A wide smile stretched across his face. His discovery was both a blessing and curse. No wonder the reiatsu had been familiar. There was no way in heaven or hell he would ever forget it. The reiatsu of the damned man who murdered him! Shirosaki would have been able to recognize that reiatsu among millions.

"Well, well, well. Ossan's hunch proved to be accurate. Go figure. The one probability we did not want to be correct. There is no mistake. This reiatsu is irrefutable proof. Soren is back. Heh, I'm glad I called dibs on him first. I failed back then… This time I won't. This time will be different. Ichigo… I'm not sure if you will… would approve or not, but right here right now I swear I'll put an end to him and his plan or plans, no matter what it/they might be. This time he won't get away with neither his past nor present crimes. Should we meet again, would you forgive me?"

Shirosaki knew none of his questions would be answered. He was well aware his pledge and words went unheard, yet he would keep this vow even at the cost of his soul. Deep inside, he felt he would have been forgiven. That's just the kind of person his Ichigo had been.

Now comes the difficult part. Get the evidence and present it to Ossan. Without it, Ossan would give him a hard time and say he was imagining things. He called forth his Zanpakuto. The beautiful long white and black sword materialized out of thin air.

The sword is as tall as Shirosaki himself, the sharp exterior pure white with a thin black layer on top. A dip at the tip of the sword fashioned in a crescent shape, starts from the top black portion and narrows inwardly toward the white, making the back film appear an inch longer. The handle wrapped in black cloth, while the guard consists of two white half-moons with their backs touching. Ossan tended to ridicule the guard whenever the subject was mentioned. Looking from a certain angle, Ossan claimed the guard seemed in the shape of a butterfly. Such nonsense! The nerve of the guy! And that is one of the reasons he makes sure no one discusses sword hilts in front of Ossan.

Sword in hand, Shirosaki chipped the stone emitting Soren's reiatsu. He just needed a piece, not the whole thing. Task completed he made his Zanpakuto disappear, opened a Garganta. His destination? The parks' woodlands close to the inn. He couldn't just magically show up at the inn. The humans would have cardiac arrests. It was also way past lunch time and he could use a snack.

Once he reached the park, he spotted a small restaurant nearby where he made his lunch break. After paying the bill, he made his way towards the next assignment. The place where that Shinigami died. He made sure to hide his reiatsu as best he could as he had to be sensed as a regular person unaware of the spiritual world. Who knew what the crazy Shinigami would do if they realized he was a Hollow?

Shirosaki paused a block before reaching his goal. The whole place was infested with Shinigami. There was a shop close at hand selling all kind of trinkets. Pretending not to see the Shinigami running around, he went to the shop's window giving the impression of checking out the store. This gave him the advantage of seeing reflected through the window what the Shinigami were doing without looking suspicious.

Luckily for him, there were a few incompetent fools who were babbling about what they thought happened right behind his back. Two males to be precise, both at an average 5'6 and 5'7. The taller had curly black hair cut short and dark brown eyes. The slightly smaller male had his long hair tied in a high ponytail, fringe and all since he must have let it all get overgrown. His light blue eyes held sympathy and remorse. No other noteworthy features. They felt like low level officers.

"The Research and Development Department made a thorough investigation. They say it was an accident. How tragic, he was a newbie too. Does anyone have any inkling as to how it occurred?" Spoke up the little male.

His partner grimaced and spoke up. "Seems like the greenhorn was dealing with a lowly Hollow, but both got killed. Idiot, he was whining about wanting to go on a mission only to end up dead."

Surprise was evident on the short man.

"So, you knew the guy who worked here?"

"Yeah, he was from the fifth division, arrogant little prick. Guess he can't complain now."

It took all of Shirosaki's restrain not to scoff at the last uttered words. Stupid grouchy Shinigami, never doing their jobs properly. Their research must have had the investigation at some point after he left the night before. Or maybe even during the morning today? He was glad he chose the mansion as the first job.

Meanwhile the smaller had a confused look on his face. It was soon clear why.

"Wait, I thought this city was under the jurisdiction of the thirteenth division? How could the deceased have been a member of squad five?"

"Karakura is under the thirteenth, that's true. But the guy was from the nearby city, Narukishi. The fool came to the border between the two and even stepped into another squads' territory. Can you believe that?! Not only that, but the girl in charge of this town had to be called back the moment his reiatsu disappeared as no one knew what happened. She was interrogated to remove any doubts that it had been her work."

"Why would anyone think it had been her fault?"

"They hated each other's guts. Don't know how that story started, but they had several confrontations during their times at the Academy. If you want more gossip, go to the bars later tonight. There will be a service memorial for the dead and afterwards, everyone will go out drinking."

The two Shinigami continued with their chat, but were getting too far away from Shirosaki's location. There was no reason to follow and listen to the rest of the conversation. He got his intel. Who knew he would be able to get all he needed without even trying. With a crazed smile back in place, Shirosaki took a small street to leave the area, just in case more Shinigami decided to pass by.

He was halfway through the dark and unkempt street when a sword was abruptly pressed at the front of his throat, just a hair from cutting his jugular vein.

"Bad, bad Hollow-san… Coming back to the crime scene. Not the smartest of moves. Just what is it that you are after?" The voice belonged to a man. The voice was calm and overly cheerful, with a hint of deadly intentions.

'Well shit.' Inwardly cursed Shirosaki.

A pause followed by words of doom. "Would you consider taking Kurosaki Masaki in your custody?"

The conference room was extremely silent after those words. Not a fly could be heard. The Ishida's minds had been blown up. To adopt a Kurosaki? And not one of their branches but a member of The Kurosaki family? It was an unusual, but plausible suggestion. Not unheard of, since it did happen on a few turns in the old forgotten times. Weddings between the two families were also not uncommon.

The Lady of the house was viewing the opportunity in front of her as golden. There weren't many pure-blood left or remotely close at hand. If they could embrace the girl in their family, raise her in the Quincy ways and get a marriage unification between the two… The family could continue as pure-bloods. It was wonderful. A chance like this did not offer itself frequently. A golden opportunity. They had to take it.

Soken was thinking around the same lines as his wife. He was aware the kids would need to be informed and he was sure it would require some time for Masaki to accept marriage. But that could wait till they both grow up a bit. He was more intrigued as to the reason behind the offer, since it had not sounded like an order.

Seeing the calculation in both eyes and wanting to reassure them of his good intentions, Ossan added: "This is not an order, but an inquiry. You are free to decide."

Soken, still doubtful, responded in a low voice.

"Heika, with all due respect. May I inquire as for the reason behind your question? From the little interaction between Masaki-san and yourself, I did not get the impression she was aware of this. Perhaps I am wrong. Though my main concern lies in the motive. Why do you wish for us to have custody over Masaki-san? Is it just due to the recent events or do you wish to marry her off into our household?"

Else was fuming on the inside. Who cared about the reason? An offer like this would not repeat itself. Though she would admit of being intrigued. Her curiosity won and she remained silent, awaiting an explanation.

Ossan, having expected the questioning, responded in kind.

"I already spoke with Masaki. I never said it would happen, but we did have a conversation about the possibility for her to live with you. You see, an associate of mine and I tend to travel a lot. We never stay in one location for extended periods of time. This consequently could prove to be an issue for Masaki's education. She could never have one school and would be constantly on the move. I want to give the child the possibility to choose her own path. Whether she wants to stay or leave will be her own decision. I do not want to pressure her. On the other hand, I do not wish to impose our wishes upon you and your family either. Thus, the reason why this is a question rather than an order. As far as wedding plans, I believe it may be too soon. Again, Masaki will have free will to select her partner. Another thing you have to consider is the fact her family was recently eradicated. The mastermind behind the attack might still be on the lookout for Masaki. If you do decide to take Masaki, you have to be aware of the possible complications and dangers involved since she may still be a target."

Dead silence befalls the room once more. Heika was right. To accept Masaki meant to accept all the circumstances that had brought her in the first place. It means taking her with all the luggage and risks.

Else strongly believed the positive outmatched the negative of the situation. Especially considering the fact that they were aware of the occurred incident. They could prepare and be alert for anything. Their place was also filled to the brim with reishi armors, gadgets and weapons, not to mention servants. All were Gemischt, there was not a single spiritually unaware individual within the house.

Soken's mind was running in the same fashion. There really were no reasons to decline. He only hoped the girl would decide to stay. Who knew, perhaps both children could fall in love and start a family. He glanced at his wife and for a moment they were gauging each other out. Agreeing to whatever they had been conversing with that staring contest, Soken spoke up.

"Very well Heika. I thank You for Your generosity in giving us a choice on the matter. We would be most delighted and honored to care for Masaki-san."

Ossan was visibly more relaxed. This truly removed a huge weight from his mind. To know that Masaki could have a stable home again filled him with joy. He knew the decision was on Masaki and no one else, but to also know she would be accepted in the Ishida household was a relief. Shame his delight was not visible on his features. Blame it on the centuries of holding his stoic front.

"In this case, it is about time we informed the children. On the topic of marriage, I do wish to make a request. Should the two decide to wed and Masaki take the Ishida name, I would be very grateful if you would allow for one of the heirs to carry the Kurosaki name. As previously mentioned, Masaki is the last living Kurosaki. It would give me a great peace of mind knowing it would be possible for my bloodline to continue on."

The two Ishida's had no qualms regarding the matter. It had been a given. It had become an unspoken rule for children to carry one of the two parents last names. That way in case one family was left with no other heirs the last member could marry in a different house and give their name to one of the newborns.

"Certainly, Heika. We will without a doubt assure the request is heard by Masaki-san and Ryuken. I am positive Ryuken will welcome the idea. May I suggest to inform the children at the table for supper? It would be a great privilege if You both could stay for dinner."

"Please, the pleasure is mine." Blessed by formalities. Although, Ossan never complained when food was in question

Soken knocked on the table and the butler from before came into the room.

"Cord*, would you be so kind as to ask for dinner to be served? Our guests will accompany us. May I also ask you to advise the children?"

The now named Cord bowed respectfully and assured everything will be arranged as requested. He left the room to perform his tasks. The remaining three stood up and made their way to the dinning room with the Ishida's at the lead. Ossan was thrilled with the results of his day. He was hoping Shirosaki had equal luck in his errands.

That's it for Chapter VIII ^.^

Looking forward to any and all criticism, just please don't hate :3

*Cord* = German name meaning honest adviser. Pretty useful right xD

Quick recap: English is not my mother language so if I made any mistakes or any errors, please let me know. I am the writer and the spellcheck person all in one. I know this is getting old. But better safe than sorry xD

Wishing everyone a great day/night ahead and once again Happy Holidays to all :)