Hello everyone :)
Merry Christmas!
Chapter IX
As 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
Strawberry (Guest) thank you so much for your kind words. They do motivate me to do more and better. Thanks for all the reviews everyone, I can't explain how much each and every one means to me.
This Chapter, however, is dedicated to the most important person in my life. I am sorry I was unable to find an appropriate present. Although, nothing in this world could possibly be enough to express just how much this special person influenced and helped me. Merry Christmas! This is a gift for you! For my achievements are yours too :3
Chapter IX
A maid was rushing through the house. Her destination, the outside gardens. She was notified the Young Master was there along with a highly esteemed visitor. Alike all the servants, she too heard the news. The Quincy King was here along with a little Miss. They were all wondering what kind of connection the two had. That's where she stopped listening on the chatter. It was not her place to speculate.
She reached the gardens. Seeing the Young Master so animated was a first for her. She's been in servitude for several years now, but never had she seen Master Ryuken so alive. Was it caused by the Miss? She quietly came closer, trying not to intrude on the conversation. Nevertheless, she had been seen by the ever perceptive Ryuken.
"Ah, Katagiri. Glad you could join us. I was just showing Masaki-san around."
Katagiri dutifully bowed. "As the Young Master wishes."
Masaki carefully examined the new arrival. The maid must be around her age or a bit older. She seemed to be a very nice, albeit a bit shy. Masaki was aware of the etiquette when addressing servants. However, she always fought to find ways to make them feel more comfortable and open and this time was no different.
"Hi, I'm Kurosaki Masaki. It's a pleasure to meet you. May I ask what your name is?"
The poor girl was surprised by the candor and kindness Miss Kurosaki was displaying. There was no trace of ill intentions. She could sense it in the radiating reiatsu, this Miss was hiding nothing and was genuinely curious.
A small smile appeared on her face. "My name is Kanae Katagiri, Kurosaki-sama, the pleasure is all mine."
Masaki noticed the smile which cheered her even more up.
"Please just call me Masaki, I believe Kurosaki-sama is more appropriate for the Heika."
Katagiri was astonished, but nonetheless accepted the request. "As the young Miss Masaki-sama wishes."
Masaki was a little put off by the "sama" suffix, but knew better than to try and dissuade the other from using it, aware that it would be impossible for Katagiri to break rules. She looked back at Ryuken her bubbly personality overrun by sheer excitement.
"The garden is beautiful. I wonder what else is there? Do you have a library? If so, how big is it? Do you read? How many books do you have? Which is your favorite type? I love adventure. All the quests and journeys make me feel part of the story."
She barely stopped at that. Trying to receive an answer from the other two members. Ryuken was at first silent, then he erupted in a suppressed laugh. He could not believe just how open the girl was. She was curious, delicate and so full of life. Composing himself, he failed to sense that a smile was firmly stuck on his features.
"There are still many rooms all over the house. Yes, we do have a library with many different genres. We have everything from classic to science. I am mostly fond of classic novels like 'Gone with the Wind', 'The Count of Monte Cristo', 'Pride and Prejudice'. Since I plan on becoming a doctor, I also read many books and scripts related to anatomy, chemistry and physiology."
"Oh, wow. You probably spend all your time studying." Masaki was impressed. Ryuken did not seem that much older than her and he already knew what he wanted to do in life. She looked at Katagiri, hoping to get an answer from the other girl. The maid was silently observing the conversation and remained quiet. With her many duties she had little time for herself.
"How about you Katagiri-san? I am sure you also enjoy reading."
Since it was a direct answer, Katagiri responded as appropriate. "I do not have much time, Kurosaki-sama. However, I do aspire to read as much as possible. I am very fond of plays and poetry."
This time it was Ryuken's turn to be surprised. Not by the fact Katagiri read in her spare time. He was aware of that having met her on many occasions in the library. No, he was surprised Masaki included her in the conversation. Most acquaintances he had ignored the servitude, as though they were above all other humans, just for being raised in an old family.
They spent several hours exploring the house and its surroundings complacent and happy, until called for dinner by the butler Cord. Katagiri took her leave to assist with the preparations. While Ryuken made sure to be a proper host and escorted Masaki to the nearest washroom and from there they made their way to the dining room.
By the time they arrived, the dining table was already prepared. The intricate white wooden table was covered by a blue mist satin tablecloth. The cutlery is silver plated, polished to perfection and has elaborate flower design at the handles. The glasses are of a fine and sturdy crystal with silver starburst etchings centered low and rising toward the top. Finally, the plates are elegant white ceramic shaped as petals. There were also three different jugs. A crystal plain pitcher containing water. The second, a pearly white ceramic jug which was filled with fresh orange juice. Lastly, a silver pitcher with hand-crafted Quincy Zeichen with wine for the grown-ups.
Speaking of the adults, they were all at their proper seats. Naturally, the Family Head Soken, was at the center of the table, Kurosaki-sama to his right, while Lady Ishida to his left. As per traditions the younger members sat as well. Ryuken by his mother's side, while Masaki by Kurosaki-sama's. Not wasting any time, the attendants began to serve the meal. Everything was truly delicious from starter to dessert.
They began with pan-seared crab cakes served with lemon sauce, followed by creamy cucumber-avocado soup. The main course consisted of tender filet mignon dressed with butter mushroom cream, carrot and rosemary infused mashed potatoes all laying on top of a mangold and spinach bed. Oh, the dessert was simply to die for, a tricolor tower. Vanilla, strawberry and cinnamon cream each separated by chocolate waffles and glossy dark chocolate ganache spilling from the top layer.
Yummy. Meal completed and servers done with clearing the table. Coffee and tea were served. And the important discussion began with Ossan in the lead.
"I would like to thank you for the meal. It was outstanding."
Soken was right on track and followed. "Think nothing of it, Heika, we are delighted You could join us. And I mean both You and the little Lady. I do hope we will get the opportunity to share another supper as joined families. How about you, Masaki-san? Was the meal to your liking?"
Masaki, who nearly dozed off, assured everything had been more than exquisite and was looking forward to another reunion. Ryuken was getting used to Masaki's enthusiasm and positive energy and found it particularly hard not to smile along with her. Masaki had the unique power to shine anywhere she went, bringing a dash of fresh air and optimism. He was not the only one to see it. He too was looking forward to the next time.
Bringing up their agreed agenda, Ossan initiated the discussed topics.
"Masaki dear. Remember we spoke recently about the possibility for you to either travel with Shirosaki and I, or choose to live here in Karakura with the Ishida's? Should you so wish, Soken and Else confirmed they would be more than happy to let you stay here with them. I could enroll you in high school and you would be able to continue your life in a stable home. Due to the way of life Shirosaki and I have, it may become a challenge for you. It would mean constant movement and traveling. Therefore, we would like to let you decide what you feel would be better."
Masaki was taken by surprise. She did remember the little chit-chat. Although she came to like very much both Kurosaki-sama and Shirosaki-san, the fact that they could not be in one place for extended periods of time would be difficult. Especially with school and stuff. She would be able to see many different locations and explore the world, but she knew she would much prefer staying put in one spot. She had her plans to travel once she was a little bigger. She may have never left the mansion, but even she was aware of the beauty and dangers the world had to offer to all those who went on journeys. Alluring, charming and magnificent sights to see were calling her attention. Yet, dark, menacing and treacherous challenges and obstacles awaited unsuspecting travelers and kept her at bay.
Across from her, Ryuken was anxiously waiting for Masaki's verdict. He had not known what his parents and Masaki's guardian had spoken about. To find out they were considering her permanent stay was making him giddy with anticipation. He could already see the house being filled with Masaki's warm energy. Should she decline the offer, he was sure the place would feel as though the sun left.
Masaki nodded her head, as though agreeing with herself.
"I… Kurosaki-sama, I know I just recently met you and Shirosaki-san and I enjoy being around both of you. But… Umm… If it would cause no trouble, I would love to stay here. I am looking forward to go to high school and gain some friends… But I do not wish to disturb or inconvenience all who live in this beautiful household."
Ryuken was glad to hear Masaki's answer, which did not go unnoticed by his parents. They momentarily looked at each other and nodded in understanding.
"Masaki-san, I can assure you it would be no trouble at all. On the contrary it would bring us joy. You seem so vibrant and full of life. I am positive you will liven the whole place including us and the staff."
Masaki was ecstatic. She would have jumped out of her chair, but refrained from doing so. She gave a shy peak at Kurosaki-sama, praying there would be no disappointment or worse sadness. She had promised to make them happy. She was relieved to see the other was gently smiling. Giving her courage and his support. Ossan would definitely miss her when they separate, but he too knew this way was better.
"I am glad for you Masaki. I can clearly see your excitement. To know you are happy is enough a reward for me."
This time Masaki could not stop herself from abruptly standing up from her chair and hugged the life out of Kurosaki-sama. Indeed, she was happy and thankful. After the horrible experience of loosing her home, she was given a new one. It was all thanks to Kurosaki-sama and Shirosaki-san. She would remember all the events for as long as she lived.
"Well, I think it's about time we make our way back to the inn. We can rest and if everyone agrees start preparing for your move. What do you say Masaki?"
Masaki was rendered speechless by all the happenings, thus, only nodded her head. Soon after, they finalized the last of the pleasantries and made their way back to the car.
It had been a long day. Masaki was ready to collapse and fall asleep. Ossan drove in silence, occasionally glancing at the now sleeping girl. It will be his duty to explain the situation to Shirosaki. Hopefully the other finished with his tasks.
'Well shit.' Inwardly cursed Shirosaki.
The blade at his throat had been unexpected. He was sure no one was in the alley he took. Yet, here he is, blade and all. Since the guy was behind him, he had no idea as to what he was dealing with. He decided to deal with the situation at hand as per his usual ways. A mix of brashness and confidence with bits and pieces of sarcasm and whatever else he felt like adding. It all depended on the receiver and their attitude.
"You know, it is rude to call people names. If you are looking for money, it's in the front left pocket of my jeans. You can either take it, or I can give it to you and we can both be on our merry way."
A light chuckle escaped his captor. "My, my Hollow-san. Playing games? Pretending not to know thyself is not the best way to get away. You may be capable of hiding your reiatsu to the point of making it feel human. But we both know there is no mistake. How about you tell me what I want to know and I won't have to cut you to pieces? You can start right about now. Also, who gave you a gigai? I will admit, it is remarkably well made. Was it Aizen?"
Shirosaki was getting confused. A gigai? The heck was that? And who was this Aizen?
"Listen here dude, I just said it was not nice calling people names. Besides, what in the world is a gigai? I hope for your own good it's nothing perverted, dirty old creep. And who's Aizen? Your boyfriend, girlfriend or something? I can tell you, I've been single for the longest of times and I'm not looking for a new relationship anytime soon. You can keep whoever that Aizen is for all I care."
The hidden male stiffened his hold on the weapon. Hehe, he hit a nerve there. He had to figure out just which part caused the reaction. He was not given the chance, as the assailant recovered.
"You are telling me, you are not using a gigai? That is impossible. How could you feel and look so solid to the point where humans can see you and you can interact with them. You are a mystery, Hollow-san. How about I take you to my laboratory? I'll get to figure you out and you won't have to be taken to Soul Society? So, why not cut through the chase and stop with this parody?"
If there was one thing Shirosaki hated even more than shopping, it would be crazy scientists. He was not particularly in the mood to call forth his Zanpakuto and cut the guy from behind. But he would do it, if it would assure his safe escape. There were other options, but he was in a really good mood. Most of all, he was curious to see if he could get even more data. He'll made do with the nut-case, for now.
"Oi, are you saying you want to kidnap little old me? You know that is a serious crime?"
He received no response for his efforts. Huffing he proceeded.
"Look, I will assume you are a Shinigami, for Hollows don't tend to talk much. That means you will anyway take me to Soul Society. Yes, I am partially Hollow and no, I'm not using a gigai or whatever you call it. I have a solid form thanks to a friend who taught me a neat trick. That was a long time ago and I don't feel inclined to explain more than that. As far as your friend Aizen, I've never even heard the name until you just mentioned it now. Happy?"
Silence. Seems like his opponent was calculating one thing or the other. Shirosaki was soon proved right, when the other spoke again.
"You are telling me you are not using a gigai and that you've never heard the name Aizen. Yet, here I find you in a suspicious area. Now, Hollow-san, let us be reasonable. You look to be a shady individual. Why would you be roaming around with Shinigami all over the place.
"Che. Would you believe me if I said yes? As far as for the reason of me being here it's simple. Last night a Hollow attacked nearby. I sensed something off in here and went to investigate. I came to find nothing but disappearing reiatsu of what must have been a fight. Also, the air smelled of fear. All indicating that it was one sided and very fast. I returned now to check up what was the update. The best way to figuring this out was to come in broad daylight, pretending to be human and listen on conversations of the Shinigami passing by."
Seeing the other was not talking, Shirosaki picked up the conversation. "Do you really think I couldn't have escaped from your grasp by now? I'm being civil and I'm cooperating. So, why don't you try and extend the same courtesy and show yourself? Oh, and since we are at it, why not remove your Zanpakuto from my neck? That would make us both feel more at ease, don't you think?"
More snickers followed by an amused voice. "Hollow-san you really want me to believe such absurdity? You would ask me to set you free? Ma, I guess I could at least show my face to a comedian like yourself."
The blade was removed. Shirosaki was in no rush to have it back on him, so he slowly turned around to see whom he had been talking to.
Yup, it had been a guy. About his height, lean, light skin, messy light-blond hair with strands framing the sides of the face and hanging between his eyes, chin stubble and gray eyes. Shirosaki was not sure about the eyes as they were mostly shadowed by a striped dark green and white bucket hat. The male wore what looked like a dark green kosode and pants of the same color as well as a dark coat with white diamond patterns along its bottom half. On his feet he had traditional Japanese wooden sandals. What were they called again? Oh, right, geta.
Ok it was official. Shirosaki had never in his entire existence seen a Shinigami like this one. He was not even interested in the males' name, he already had the perfect name in his head for the guy. Getabōshi, 'sandal-hat'. He was tempted to laugh till he would drop to his knees. The only reason he refrained from doing so, was the opportunity to gather more information. It was most certainly not the little sword. Seriously who in their right mind goes around with a silver blade embed in an umbrella handle or is it a cane's handle? Judging by the wooden case the guy pulled out, he would go with the cane presumption. What was that design at the bottom of it? A blue skull? Why would he have a decoration at the bottom of a cane? It was not visible at all! Shinigami and their stupid sense of fashion.
With a critical eye, the unknown man was carefully analyzing the Hollow in front of his eyes. He was astonished. Never had he seen a patient or tranquil Hollow, such as this one. Had it not been for his eyes and pale nearly white skin, he could be easily mistaken for a human.
The newcomer, lowered his hat, obscuring his eyes even more than before. A smile on his face. 'This is going to be very interesting.'
"Hollow-san, how about we go elsewhere? We would not want to be spotted by other Shinigami around, now would we?"
Shirosaki scoffed and crossed his arms around his chest.
"Seeing you are a Shinigami yourself, shouldn't that be more convenient for you? Or are you not supposed to be here either? Anyway, you are really rude. How about you introduce yourself before asking for favors?"
"Of course, where are my manners? Urahara Kisuke, owner of a humble candy store in this lovely city. Am I to correctly assume I will get a name in turn?"
Shirosaki's grin stretched across his face in record time. "Shirosaki Ichirou." He said he would introduce himself, not that he would give his history.
"Shirosaki-san huh? Care to join me on this late afternoon for a cup of tea? Night will fall soon and I have the feeling neither one of us wants to be found by other Shinigami."
Shirosaki weighted his options. Yes, he could always get away without Getabōshi even noticing. But he really wanted to figure out what the hell was a gigai. He did not like the name Aizen either for some reason. He'll blame it on his instincts and Soren's reincarnation. It would be beneficial to know if they were trespassing on someone's territory.
"Sure, by all means lead the way Getabōshi-san. But let me give you a fair warning. You try messing around or doing something stupid like attacking me, and I will not have a choice but to fight back. I may have appeared meek and I am in high spirits, but don't test my patience. You may end up disliking my temper." All was said in a casual manner as thought they were talking about the weather and not about possibly killing each other.
Urahara was once again shocked. 'Oh, yes. Indeed, this is about to get very interesting.'
Another Chapter out ^.^
I am so happy to see my story is so well liked. Again, a big thank you to everyone and particular shout-outs to Strawberry (Guest) as well as to my Super Special Individual for being there for me and supporting this humble creation of mine.
Looking forward to any and all criticism, just please don't hate :3
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 :)