Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach or any of its characters.

Intro to OC:

Atsuko Ukitake, (atsu) "warm", 篤 (atsu) "kind, cordial" or 敦 (atsu) "honest" combined with 子 (ko) "child".

Atsuko is a timid girl who is always analysing the people and events around her, even more so when she's in a fight. When talking one-on-one (or in a small group of people she's familiar with) she's very approachable, talkative and friendly, often expressing lots of emotion but while in a crowd she's frequently seen as quiet. She dislikes violence and tries to avoid confrontation, mostly because she lacks confidence in, and doesn't like, her powers but also because, as she often says, "Hurting you is one thing, I have a reason to do so, however I have no reason to hurt the people who care for you who have done nothing wrong, and by killing you, I will surely hurt them."

She will accept no bad words when it comes to her Captain and regularly ignores her dislike of violence if someone says anything bad about him. She's speculated on more than one occasion that she would surely be dead without him and in helping her, Ukitake saved her life. She's always strived to be kind and loving, hoping to pass on the compassion she received from Jushiro. "Our squad symbol signifies hope, Ukitake-taichou gave me hope and honours our squad's symbol. I too, wish to be able to bring hope to others!"

When Junshiro is sick she looks after him and nurses him, however when he is unwell, despite telling other's not to worry, she frets about his wellbeing and frequently goes to Captain Kyoraku for emotional support as they both share concern for the sick Captain. As part of the thirteenth squad, Ukitake's devision, she's always given time to care for the Captain, even though at first she had to bully the lieutenants into letting her do so.

Despite seeming calm and collected Atsuko often feels confused and conflicted which leads her to dislike being in a position of responsibility as she worries that she will lead people down the wrong path. She's gotten bad habbits from her uncle Shinsui for becoming lazy when there's nothing to do and frequently ends up visiting her friends at such times instead of helping the lieutenant and Captain with paperwork.

Zampacto: Fukohime. (unhappy/sorrow/death princess)

Shikai: Cry, Fukohime. To release the katan must be held with the hilt pointing east and the tip of the blade pointing west with the wielders right hand gripping the hilt and the left resting against the blunt edge of the blade.
Once released it remains in the form of a normal katana but with a chain from the hilt which connects to a curved blade (can hook into the chains to bind the opponent) It's attacks consist of...
Spark - (when cutting an opponent or if they're in contact with the weapon an electric shock radiates through them which shatters the nerves and can leave limbs useless),
Blast, - (the chain forms a circle from the hilt to the tip of the blade of the katana and surges with electrical energy before firing an attack - ofton compaired to a cero blast),
Crusify, - (a cross is draw using the sword, either on the target or in the air and then fired at the target, once it's attached it pulls their limbs into a cross shape and sends electrical currents throughout their body causing them terrible pain and makes any injuries the opponent already has far worse, Eg. a cut can be pulled open or a burn can spread),
Make them scream, Fukohime! (the chain extends and wraps around the foe, trapping them and leaving them unable to move, it then electrocutes the opponent and sends high foltage currents causing through them, this goes on for several minutes until their nerves are useless, organs shut down and the brain ceases to fuction, however it takes a large ammount of spiritual energy to use and is only affective in one-on-one since it can take up to five minutes to complete and in that time the blade must be held still or the current could be disturbed. Can be used on more than one opponent - wrapping several people together - however it is often harder to trap more than the one foe)

She's also working on a way to use its power to heal people, she hopes to be able to use the elecrtical currents to repair nerves rather than damage them and also burn away disease, though she's still unable to do so.

"I believe that a battle should be without pleasure, this sword enjoys watching its opponent suffer and die. It's disgusting."

"Uh, how did you get here?" The long, white haired man asked. He was tall and wore the shinigami uniform with a white robe on top, which I presumed was a Captain's haori but his smile seemed far too kind for him to be a Soul Reaper, let alone a Captain. He knelt down and gave my head a gentle pat as he examined my dirty, tattered clothes. "Oh dear, shall we get you some clean clothes?" I looked down at myself and blushed, I hadn't bathed in a while so my hair was a matted mess while I was sure my body stank of sweat and dirt. "There, there, don't be embarrassed." He chuckled as he saw my eyes fill with tears. "I'll ask someone to give you a bath, perhaps Rukia would be kind enough to do so." I looked up at him once again, his green eyes seeming to shimmer along with his kind expression. "I'm Jushiro Ukitake, what's your name?" I shrugged, unable to answer such a simple question. "Well, that's alright, we'll find you a name. You haven't said a word yet, can you speak?"

"O-oh, yes!" I answered timidly.

"Well, I'm glad you can understand me. That makes things easier, at least." He got back to his feet and held out his hand. "Shall we go?" I nodded and took hold of his hand, his skin was warm against my cold hand. The autumn meant that the days weren't as warm and I, more than most, felt that. The rags I had on were enough to cover me but not enough to keep me warm so it felt nice to have another's body heat against my skin. In fact, it was the first time I'd ever felt such a thing, another person's warmth, it was new to me. I was simply glad that I'd felt the warmth of such a kind person.

As we walked along the open hall a black haired man rounded the corner and stared at us, eyeing me suspiciously before looking to the man beside me, Ukitake. "Urm, Captain, who's this?" The new man asked as he glanced down at me. He too was tall and wore the shinigami uniform, his voice was light but deep, however it wasn't soft like the Captain's, who seemed to sooth your whole being with just one word.

"Oh, Kaien! I haven't decided on a name for her," he admitted as he looked down to me, I looked up at him and gave a shy smile. "I was thinking maybe something to do with blue because of her eyes, don't you think they're a beautiful colour?" I'd never seen my own eyes before, I'd never gazed at my own reflection so I didn't know if he was lying or not. The Kaien man seemed to double check before he smiled and nodded.

"Indeed they are," since they'd both said so I took their word for it and felt rather proud of the eye colour that I'd never seen. "But I more meant, where did she come from and what is she doing here in Squad thirteen's barracks?" The Captain thought for a moment and his expression resembled confusion so he simply answered with a shrug. "So, you're just letting a strange child wander around!?"

"She's not wandering around, I'm taking her to get a bath and some new clothes."

"Captain, is that such a good idea?" The Kaien man sighed.

"Of course, look at her, she's harmless!"

"U-urm, excuse me." I cleared my throat to try and get their attention. "If I am being a bother I am very sorry, I did not mean to trouble you."

"You're so polite!" Ukitake beamed. "But don't worry, you're not a bother. Come on, let's get you that bath!"

We walked past the dark haired man and continued until we came to the bathroom, he then told me to stay there while he went to find someone to help wash me. I looked around the big room, disliking the feeling of being alone in a strange place, but I stayed quiet and walked to the corner, squatting down and hugging my knees to my chest as I waited for him to return. I wasn't sure why but it felt safer in that spot, perhaps it was just a strange habit of mine but I rationalized it down and figured it was because if my back was to the wall I couldn't be attacked from behind or caught by surprise. I could see everything that was going on around me.

He came back the best part of fifteen minutes later with a shorter, yet still taller than myself, girl. She looked young and had short, black hair, the same as the men she wore the black Shinigami uniform. "This is her," Ukitake said as he opened the door. "Oh dear, don't sit in the corner like that." He rushed in and helped me to my feet, dusting me off with a smile.

"It is alright, really." I smiled as he tended to me. Kindness, it was nice to experience.

"I'm Rukia Kuchiki," the girl smiled as she bent down to my height. "It's nice to meet you, what's your name?" I took a step back and grabbed onto Ukitaki's sleeve. The girl's expression seemed both shocked and concerned, I hadn't intended to offend her neither was I scared of her, I simply disliked new people. Even though Jushiro was new to me I felt at ease with him which is why I'd taken to him so quickly.

"She doesn't have one yet," he explained. "I'm trying to come up with one for her, we can't have her without a name now, can we?"

"I see," Rukia breathed as she stared at me. I returned the look and we shared eye contact for several moments before Ukitake went to step out of the room, however I clung onto his clothing as tightly as I could to stop him.

"I want you to stay," I pouted. He looked down at me in shock and blinked several time before seeming to realize what I'd said.

"I'm afraid I can't, but Rukia will look after you." He turned back to me and bent down once again, patting my head and softly stroking my filthy hair. "I'll be waiting for you when you're finished, okay?" I slowly nodded and released him so that he could exit the room.

After he was gone and the door was closed once more, Rukia rolled up her sleeves. "You ready to get clean!?" She asked with an energetic grin. I could easily tell she was forcing the vigour but I appreciated her attempt. I nodded and slipped off my rags before she picked me up and gently lowered me into the large tub of water. I stayed still as she scrubbed me and washed my hair, only winching as she rubbed over the scrapes on my hands, elbows, knees and shins. I'd stumbled and fallen over a lot before making it to the place where I'd met Ukitake, I couldn't remember much but I did recall falling over on the streets as I wandered around the Seireitei.

After almost half an hour of scrubbing, water being dumped over my head and towelling dry, we'd finished with the bath. Rukia seemed worn out and kept wiping sweat from her brow. "Oh no, we forgot to get you some clothes!" She gently wrapped the towel around my shoulders before standing up and stepped over to the door, opening it just enough so she could pop her head out. "Captain!" She called.

"Yes?" His voice was strained but was faint so I guessed he'd gone to a different room as he waited for us to finish.

"Could you get her some clothes, please?" Rukia asked. I stood still and watched as the steam exited through the gap and the cool air wafted it, despite having been dried my skin was still damp and I grew chilled rather quickly. I tried to contain my shivers but after just a moment I found that I was unable to and my teeth began to chatter. "Oh, I'm sorry!" Rukia gasped as she dashed back to me, putting her arm around my back and gently rubbed her hand against my upper arm as she tried to warm me. A minute or so later the Captain appeared at the door with some black robes. "Thank you, Captain." Rukia smiled as she took them from him.

"No problem," he replied with a smile. "Did you have fun in the bath?" He asked me as Rukia sorted out the clothing, she seemed confused at first but quickly worked it out.

I nodded in response to the question asked of me. "It was nice."

"I'm glad!" His smile seemed to become childish and excited as he went out of the room again. "Hurry and get changed, okay? When you're done we'll all get something to eat." I nodded and he closed the door behind him. Once he was out of the room Rukia removed the towel from around me and helped me get into the clothes that had been provided for me. It was a smaller version of the uniform which the others wore and I was happy that I would blend in with them. I disliked standing out or being different.

Once I was fully dressed Rukia gave my hair one last towel dry which made my head bob about as my hair began to flick and curl, though strangely it felt rather nice against my scalp. "All done!" The girl beamed. My hair was still a little bit damp but dry for the most part. Reaching up I picked a bunch of my hair and gazed at it, now that it had been washed it looked shiny and the black looked glossy and silky rather than grimy. In fact, the colour resembled a dark blue rather than a deep black.

"Thank you, Rukia." I gave a wary smile as I looked up at her. It struck me that we could very well be sisters as we had a strong resemblance, though her eyes were a deeper and closer to a purple colour while her hair was closer to black than blue. "C-can I call you 'nee-san'?" I asked nervously.

She looked at me in surprised before laughing. "Of course!" She stood up and offered her hand to me. "Come on, Nee-chan, let's go show the Captain how pretty you look!" I couldn't help but get embarrassed as she referred to me as pretty. Together, we walked out of the bathroom and along the corridor. Rukia seemed to know where we were heading so I followed her and took note of the two corners we took, just in case I needed to return to the bathroom, before coming to a large room where Ukitake was knelt by a desk writing on some papers. "Ukitake-taichou," Rukia prompted so he'd know we were there. She bowed respectfully as he turned to us. I looked from her to him and then back to her before gasping and mimicking her posture.

"Now, now," he chuckled. "There's no need for that." Rukia straightened up so I did the same. I wasn't sure how I should act since everyone seemed to address the man with respect and admiration, he also appeared to be superior to them so I guessed he was my superior as well. With his hand he motioned for me to go closer, I looked up to Rukia to double check that such a thing was okay.

"What are you waiting for?" She asked, her voice seemed as if she wanted to laugh but didn't wish to sound mean.

"Oh," I looked away and blushed, embarrassed that I was so unsure, in fairness though, I was young and everything was rather new and confusing. After a moment I turned back to the white haired Captain, slowly released Rukia's hand and cautiously stepped closer. He waited patiently as I grew closer, smiling kindly the whole time. "Th-thank you!" I stiffened and fell to the ground, bowing my head to the floor. "Thank you for your kindness!"

"There's no need for that," he laughed, however his soft laugh turned into a cough.

"Captain!" Rukia gasped. He waved his hand, motioning her not to worry but I guessed there was a good reason for her to be concerned. I peeked up at him and examined him closely.

Despite his light hair colour his eyebrows were still dark so I guessed there was some reason behind the difference in colour, his eyes were a soft green which was accentuated by his pale complexion. He didn't appear unwell but he certainly had a sickly look to him. His hand reached out and patted my head once again. "So, where do you live, little one?"

"Oh, I don't have a home." I said with a smile. "I sleep in trees and eat whatever I can find." I wasn't embarrassed by my answer because I thought that was what everyone did, for as long as I could remember I'd seen starving people doing the same so I knew no better.

"I see," he sighed. I sat up and stared at him as he pondered his thoughts. "I'll get someone to make up a room for you so that you can stay here, though I'm not sure the room will be ready tonight... You could sleep on the couch, though." He said as he motioned to the sofa in the corner of the room. "I'm sure it'll be comfier than a tree, is that alright?" I looked at him in shock. The thing that bugged me was my inability to understand his reasoning, it wasn't like he'd gain anything by being kind to me, in fact it would only cost him. To feed and house me would cost him money and to care for me would cost him time. However, I didn't want to deny his offer. I liked him, his gentle smile and comforting presence, it was certainly nicer than being alone.

"Urm, will you be here?"

"No, I'll be sleeping at my family home so you'll have the place to yourself." He said it as if it were a good thing. I knew I was asking a lot, especially since he was already being so kind, but I couldn't help myself.

"Can I stay there, with you?" I asked as I glared into his eyes.

"Oh," his expression shifted from stunned back to his tender smile. "Of course!"

I grinned happily and before I could think to stop myself I jumped up and hugged onto him. "Thank you!" He appeared taken aback but soon chuckled and patted my back.

"Now, let's go get some food. Rukia, will you join us?" I found myself unable to let go, I was truly overjoyed that someone had shown me such compassion that I didn't want to let go of that person. Whatever reasons he had, I was glad for them. He was my first friend.

"Yes, of course! Thank you, Taichou." She said, I could feel her eyes on me and I wondered if it was a happy look she wore. I wasn't sure if she was happy by my sudden appearance, though she didn't seem upset by it.

"Good! We'll ask Kaien to come, too. Oh!" At his idea the Captain gave a grin and got to his feet, pulling me with him he supported me with an arm around my back and his other just under my butt so it acted as a seat for me. "We should make a party out of it, invite your friend Renji and your brother, I'll ask Shunsui to come and to bring Nanao, it'll be to welcome Atsuko!" Since I was the newest arrival I assumed he meant me. I pulled back from the hug, enough to look at him but not enough to pull my hands off of him completely. "Do you like that name?" I nodded and felt tears begin to sting at my eyes. "In return for the name you have to promise always to be kind and honest, okay?"

"Yes," I sniffled as I felt the warm tears drip from my eyes. "Thank you, thank you very much, Ukitake-sama!"

"Nonsense!" His eyes turned serious as he glared at me. "'Jushiro-san' will do just fine." Throwing myself against him once more I hugged onto him tightly and sobbed, each and every tear was simply my happiness overflowing. "Now, now." He chuckled as he patted my back. "Come on, we're going to have a party, you can't cry at your own party." I sniffled as I tried to calm myself but it was impossible. So many times I'd wondered if I was going to die, unable to obtain food or water, many days my legs had felt so weak that I was unable to walk, and yet by meeting just one person my whole world seemed to be changing. "Rukia, why don't you give everyone a call and see if they can make it?"

"Of course, Captain!" She went to walk away but turned and stepped forward, gently adding a second pat to my back. "Welcome to the Seireitei, Atsuko-chan."

That night we had a small party with all a lot of people including most of the Captains and lieutenants along with several other shinigami. I learnt a lot of new names and faces however for a long time I hid behind Ukitake. Once I became accustomed to them all, one by one, I began to play and interact with them. The small, pink haired girl, Yachiru, seemed to take an interest in me and I played with her for a while until her scary friend tried to join us. I then moved on to Rukia's brother, he was calm and seemed irritated by all of the comotion which led me to be rather fascinated by him. He sat patiently as I stared at him but took objection to me trying to play with his hair, to which Jushiro pulled me away. I enjoyed most of the lieutenants, Rangiku, Momo and Isane were all very kind and cooed over me, however Rangiku called it odd how I seemed to be analyzing them all. The short Captain amused me and seemed to be taken with me until I pulled on his hair, though I think he was mostly annoyed that I could reach his hair and not the likes of Byakuya's.

Most of the Captain's scared me, Kenpachi for sure, Mayuri too along with Soi Fon who called me a little snot, Unohana was kind but I got the feeling she was hiding something and when I tugged on her long plat I got the feeling she wanted to rip me apart. I got the same feeling from the brown haired man who wore glasses, Aizen. The dog man was kind and I enjoyed patting his soft fur and watching as his ears flicked, though he only took off his large bucket-like helmet for a short while. The blind man seemed cold to me so I kept my distance and simply observed him from afar while I played with the sliver haired Captain who strongly resembled a sly fox. I rather liked Gin, he played with me without complaint and even endured my curious poking of his eyes and pulling on his hair.

When Gin had had enough to ammusing me and wished to drink and talk with the other people I went back to the people without the white haori but the women were too busy chatting about various matters so I poked my nose in on the boys. They all seemed happy to play with me so I sat on the strange man, with feathery things on his face's lap. Yumichika messed with my hair and styled it to match his own while the bald man, Ikkaku poked at me. His jabs grew annoying so I huffed and bit his finger. Enraged by my attack he started to challenge me to a duel, but the other's calmed him and pointed out how flawed his challenge was. The blonde man with the blue eyes, Izuru, entrieged me. He appeared happy enough as he talked but his eyes seemed sad to me. I rather liked the red-head, he was funny enough and happily played with me, poking my nose in a gentle way as he tickled me. In my excitement I released some gas and Yumichika threw me from his lap.

"How disgusting!" He exclaimed. I fell on my face since he hadn't been kind enough to be gentle with me.

"Ouch," I mumbled as I sat up, looking down at the ground with red cheeks and a sniffle.

"Now look what you did!" Ikkaku hissed.

"Appologize," the man with a scar running down his face, Hisagi, said. Renji was the only one who thought to pick me up and make sure I was okay.

"No way, she farted on me!" Yumichika yelled. "She's disgusting."

I sniffled again as I tried not to cry. "There, there." Renji said nervously. "Don't listen to him."

"She's just a kid," Izuru pointed out.

"Yumichika, you appologize. The Captain won't forgive you for hurting a kid." Kaien said as he glared at the purple-haired man.

"I told you, no way! She's a disgusting creature, I won't appologize."

I couldn't help but burst into tears as he continued to refere to me as disgusting, I thought the 'creature' remark was uncalled for too. Renji seemed to freak out as he hesitated about patting my back. "No! Don't cry!"

"What's going on here?" I looked up and saw a fuzzy ladied with black hair. I'd earlier seen her with the girls and also hanging out with Ukitake's friend with the pink Kimono. Nanao. "Yumichika, you picking on a kid?!"

"Atsuko, what's wrong?" Behind her I saw my white haired Captain and without hesitation I climbed off of Renji's lap and walked to him, clinging onto his leg as I sobbed. He bent down and picked me up, noticing the red mark on my nose. Before I knew it, all of the women and Captains were surrounding us, glaring down at the gay-looking man.

"Hey, Yumichika!" His Captain growled. "You didn't go picking on Yachiru's new friend, did ya?"

"N-no! Of course not Captain. It was an accident, I'm sorry Atsuko-chan." He said in a panic. I realized if I made him look any worse he might get into serious trouble and I decided I didn't want to cause that kind of trouble.

"I-it's alright," I sniffled as Jushiro dried my tears. "I'm sorry for... For..." My cheeks went red as I tried to fight through the embarrassment. "I'm sorry I farted on you!"

Everyone laughed and the night continued however I mostly stayed with Ukitake after the incident since I grew shy once again, especially of the guys. The time creaped past and my eyes grew heavy until I could no longer stay awake. Sleepily I shuffled over and rested my head on Jushiro's knee, yawning to display my lack of energy. He smiled gently as he stroked my hair, the motion felt soothing and I soon drifted off to sleep.

"Aw, pass her here." Shunsui cooed as Jushiro lifted me to him. My jaw hit against my shoulder as my head flopped about limply, I was tired, far too tired to move on my own, but I'd woken just enough to be aware of what was happening around me. Kyoraku hugged me against him as Ukitake grunted and got to his feet.

"Can you take her to my room? I'll let her sleep sleep with me tonight since I don't want her waking up in the morning all distressed." I felt his hand touch my back as he peered at my sleeping face. I could tell it was his hand because it was much thinner than Shunsui's and he smelt like flowers. I felt the slight shake as Uncle Shinsui nodded and began to head out of the room.

"Aren't you coming?" He asked in a hushed tone however it was at the same volume of his general speach.

"Yes, I'll be there in a moment, I just want to tidy up a bit."

I yawned again and snuggled against Kyoraku, compared to Ukitake he was a lot warmer though it was as if Jushiro was a soft heat with gently warmed you and kept you safe while Shunsui's was a bright heat which warmed you quickly but gave you that odd tingling as your temperature shifted too sharply. Either way, it was nice and comforting. He walked slowly, I guessed to try and avoid disturbing me, but his strides were long and it didn't take very long for us to get to the place where I slept for the rest of the night.

The next morning I woke up as soon as the sun rose, I opened my eyes to see Ukitake's chest. I looked up to see his eyes were closed and his breathing was slow yet deep so I guessed he was still asleep. He'd bundled me up and hugged me tight before going to sleep and we'd remained like that as we slept. "Jushiro-san," I whispered, feeling bad that I was waking him. He grumbled and tilted his head down to look at me as his eyes opened slightly.

"What's wrong, Atsuko?" He asked before yawning.

I began to wriggle as I tried to get free of the blanket which was tightly wrapped around me. "I need to pee!" I exclaimed as I realized just how desperate I was. He continued to look at me for a moment before he jumped to his feet.

"Right! The bathroom!" He held me at arms length as he dashed to the toilet, each step bounced and made me even more uncomfortable. Thankfully, he got me there in time, putting me just inside the door before shutting it and allowing me to do my thing.

Once I was comfortable again I flushed the toilet, fiddled and complained but finally managed to get my hakama tied right and then washed my hands. I walked out to see Jushiro slumped against the wall with his eyes closed so I went to him and poked his cheek. He failed to wake up so I decided to pass the time by playing with his long hair.

Ukitake proceeded to sleep for another hour or so and by the time his eyes flickered open I'd finished platting his hair in two long pleats. He didn't notice at first but once he'd gone to the bathroom and looked in the mirror he saw what I'd done. "Atsuko-chan, did you do this?" He asked with a chuckle.

"Yep," I nodded. "You were sleeping and I got bored..." I trailed off as I looked down, worried he was going to scold me. He simply laughed and patted my head.

"Thank you for leaving me to sleep."

I spent my young years happily with Ukitake, being passed around the different squad's for babysitting when I was still small and he was sick which occured a lot since he would tire himself playing with me. I was mostly looked after by Shunsui Kyoraku but when he was busy people such as Byakuya, Renji, Gin, Rukia, Unohana, Toshiro and Rangiku not to mention Isane and Momo looked after me. I grew up around them all and they all became like one big family to me. Though Jushiro refused to allow Mayuri or Kenpachi to look after me despite them both offering to on several occations, he also said it wasn't fair to Kaien to make him care for me when he was acting as Captain a lot.

When I was roughly nine Jushiro adopted me as his daughter, that day was the happiest of them all since it meant I officially had a family.

Once I was a little older and able to look after myself my life wasn't as happy though I still enjoyed each day. I spent a lot of time at Ukitake's bedside, attempting to nurse him back to health. I witnessed Kaien's death after following them into the battle field. I'd been worried about Jushiro since he had only just recuperated after getting badly sick and I'd only just managed to catch up as Rukia 'freed' Kaien from the hollow which had possessed him. I'd gone to Byakuya along with Ukitake and begged him to save Rukia when she was sentenced to death. I'd watch all of my friends being torn up by the betrayal of the three Captains, Aizen, Gin and Tozen. I'd mostly been upset over Gin leaving since I'd gotten along with him rather well, however the other two I'd always disliked and questioned. Something had always seemed off with them, nothing that I could pin-point or observe out-right but it was a gut feeling.

I met Ichigo and the human bunch at that incident, I mostly got on with the Quincy but I befriended the others as well. I would often visit them in the world of the living and blew off my training at the academy since my classes were easy and I was getting through the academy far too quickly. I easily got permission from Grandpa Yamamoto on the promise that I didn't interfere with the humans, which for the most part I didn't. I certainly didn't attend their school or anything so intrusive, unlike some people.

The enterance exam into the Academy had been a breeze, I'd grown up learning the ways of the sword and Kido by many different people so when it came to attending the academy, along with having to defend myself, it was easy enough. However the happy days of a trainee weren't for me since my time there was clouded by the war with Aizen and his Arrancars. I wasn't comfortable around large crowds of new people which made making friends difficult but I didn't mind since I already had so many friends in the Thirteen Court Guard Squads. I'd graduated a week before the big show down and straight away I was placed as the seventh seat in Ukitake's squad, it wasn't a big surprise since I'd been training with the best all of my life. My Otosan had asked Grandpa Yamamoto if I could go to either squad thirteen or eight and he decided on thirteen. Since I'd just become an officer and was able to fight I requested that I be allowed to go to the world of the living to assist against the enemy.

Jushiro-san refused. No matter how much I requested it he continued to deny me. Though, he allowed me to train with them, saying it would do me no harm to do the kind of training that they would be up to. I'd helped Orihime and Rukia with their training however the human had needed to gain expierence against a shikai but mine wasn't the best for that since mine was mostly for causing pain, so I simply used Kido and sword against her.

Once the two had left for the world of the living the Seireitei became caotic as everyone prepared for battle. I hated it more than anything, watching everyone get ready to put their lives on the line while I sat back and waited to hear the outcome. So, naturally, I decided I would follow them through to the material world. I just wish my family were the kind who wouldn't of thought that I would do such a thing. Before they left, I said goodbye to everyone, giving each and everyone a tight hug and wished them luck. Jushiro and Shunsui had been the last to go through the gate and before they went they bound me in several bakudos.

"Take care of her," Ukitake had said to Sentaro and Kyone.

"See you later, Atsuko-chan!" Kyoraku waved as they both disappeared through the Senkaimon.

"Damn it," I sighed. "I really wish they weren't so smart."

It had taken me just over an hour, along with a lot of energy, to break through the eight layers of barriers and chains which bound me. By the time I'd gotten free the two lieutenants had lost interest and gone to get something to eat so I'd been able to summon a hell buterfly and pass through the Senkaimon. However by the time I'd gotten to the world of the living it had been too late, it made my chest hurt that I'd been of no use to them and was unable to help them after everything they'd done for me. The only thing that I was able to do was help heal wounds which I did for Ukitake, Kyoraku and Toshiro along with the vizards who had less life-threatening injuries while Unohana healed those who had more serious wounds such as the blonde girl they called Hiyori.

I scolded the two Captains who also happened to by my father and uncle for trapping me in the Soul Society and for getting hurt. Jushiro responded saying he felt proud that I was able to escape from such strong bakudo and be able to heal them so effectively. However Shunsui commented that I didn't seem to be annoyed when I lectured them, I apparently had such a serious expression that he thought I was going to cry. I later thought that perhaps I had wanted to. Which just proved to me how much I loved them.

Before I knew it over fifty years of my life had gone by, even though that wasn't very long for us souls it still felt like a long time, a long and happy time.

As our seats were reassest after the war with Aizen our ranks got rearanged along with the new apointing of captains, while Rukia became lieutenant I was able to become the third seat and Kyone and Sentaro were pushed down to joint fourth.

"Jushiro-san?" I asked that night. We were in his study, both doing our own thing as we enjoyed the silent company the other offered. I was laid on my stomach on the floor beside Ukitake while he worked at his desk.

"What is it, Atsu-chan?" He was sorting through paperwork as I flitted through the latest aditiong of the Seireitei Communication trying to find the latest chapter of Rejection of the Twin Fishes.

"Why did you apoint Rukia as lieutenant and not me? I've beaten her in training before..."

"She has more expierence than you, Atsuki. You're still young, you have plenty of time to become lieutenant and even Captain." He turned to me and smiled brightly. "Besides, I didn't think you would want the responsibilties."

"I don't," I admitted. "I don't think I deserve the rank of third seat, let alone lieutenant. But if you'd of apointed me as lieutenant then I'd be able to stay by your side more often."

I felt his eyes on me and wondered what he was thinking as he chuckled. "Actually, in truth my decision was selfish, because you're wrong. You'd spend just as much time with me at work but then when I'm sick you'd be too busy running the squad to look after me, see?" I looked over my shoulder at him in surprise, his expression resembled embarrassment but he didn't seem flustered. "So, tell me, what do you think of the new Captains? You're good at observing people, what do you see in them?"

"I think they're good aditions to the family, though that one, Rose, seems a little odd to me." I said honestly.

"The family?" He asked with a raised brow.

"Yeah!" I smiled. "You're the dad, Uncle Shunsui... well, he's an uncle. Nanao is the bookworm cousin. Rukia, Momo, Toshiro, Hisagi and Izuru are the various siblings while Rangiku, Renji and Isane are the close cousins who feel more like siblings. Soi Fon's probably the emo cousin who tries not to care but can't help herself so does the best she can to act un-caring. Oh, I forgot Byakuya, he's the cool older brother and Kenpachi is his best friend/rival guy with Yachiru being his sister... or daughter. Tetsuzaemon and Sajin are probably the distant relatives who only come to town every now and then, Saskibe's like that too. Mayuri is the crazy uncle who gives everyone the creaps and Unohana is the nice Aunt who you want to keep in a good mood and not to piss off. Then of course you have Grandpa Yamamoto." I pondered who I'd forgotton but couldn't think of anyone so I was left with the new additions. "I guess Shinji and Kensei are the strange, yet cool, older brother types while Rose is the weird uncle."

"You seem to have put a lot of thought into this," Jushiro laughed. "Though, I suppose you're right." I nodded as I returned to my magazine. "But... Who's the mother?"

"Hmm," I pondered the idea for a moment before shaking my head. I went to say perhaps Unohana but as soon as I thought it I shook my head. I pushed myself up onto my knees and shuffled over, throwing my arms around his neck and hugging him tightly. "Otosan isn't allowed to find a wife! She would take all of your time and attention which is specially reserved for me!" He looked at me in surprise with raised eyebrows before he chuckled lightly, reaching up and patting my head.

"I meant in our 'family'." He laughed. "Nobody will take my attention away from you." His laughs soon became coughs and I let go and began to gently rub his back. The cough grew into a fit as he wheezed to catch his breath, covering his mouth as it turned into a retch.

"Otosan..." I watched in worry as I saw the red stain on his clothing. Once it had settled down he looked at me with a weak smile as he reached and held his hand over mine which was resting on his shoulder. "You need to rest, you'll only get worse if you push yourself."

"I suppose you're right," he sighed as he observed the blood which was on his hand and sleeve. "I'm sorry to ask you, but will you help me to bed?"

"Of course," I scanned over him and noted that he looked paler than normal. I always kept a close eye on him and made sure he didn't push himself too hard however no matter what he seemed to become ill. I took his arm and helped him to his feet before guiding him towards the door. With a sigh he leaned over me, resting his arm around my shoulders as we walked out towards his room. I was considerably shorter than Jushiro since he stood at 6'1"/6'2" while I was only 5'8", my head came up to his chin so it was a comfortable position for us both. I remembered when I was small, several times I'd had to run and ask Shunsui for help when Otosan was unable to get to his own bed, once there I looked after him however Shunsui often stayed or got Nanao to stay with me through the night until Rukia or another member of the squad came to check on us.

We remained quiet as I lowered him onto his futon and pulled the quilt over him. I laid my hand on his forehead for a moment and was relieved when I felt a normal temperature. "At least there's no fever," I smiled.

He nodded ad he closed his eyes. "I just need some rest, I'll be better in the morning."

"Otosan, I'm just going to check your breathing, okay?" He nodded slightly but I guessed he was already half asleep which just proved he was tired. I pulled open the black kosode and the white shitagi which was underneath to expose his chest. He inhaled sharply and I knew the cool night air would probably sting his weak lungs. I leaned down and rested my ear to his chest however my hair got in my way so I had to pull back and quickly tie it into a bunch at the back of my head. My black-blue locks had grown long since I'd failed to cut them since Aizen's defeat and they rested half way down my back. I didn't mind wearing my hair long but it often got in the way so I made a mental note to cut it as soon as I could. Once it was out of the way I attempted again and pressed my ear to his chest.

His breathing was laboured but steady, each intake of oxygen was consistant with the output of carbon dioxide which meant he was processing it well. I breathed a sigh of relief as I covered him up once again and tucked him in. I hoped it was simply tiredness which was far easier to cure then the other possiblities.

I looked over my shoulder to the opened window and knew the harsh air wouldn't be helping him so I got to my feet and walked over to it, slowly shutting it as I gazed up at the stary sky. I closed my eyes and offered a slient prayer to the darkness, unknowing whether anyone would hear it or do anything of it, but I simply felt useless while I watched him fight through the illness, unable to stand in and assist him. That thought made me laugh, possibly harder than it should have. "Even when you're sick, you're still you. No letting me help and trying to keep me from the battlefield, you're probably glad that you're the one who's facing the sickness and not me or anyone else. That's so typical of you..." My brows furrowed as I looked at his weak, sleeping state. "Just don't push it, 'kay? I don't want you doing anything dumb like dying. You can't break up the family, do you hear?" I knew I was talking to the walls which surrounded me but it somehow helped me to say the words out loud, even if they simply drifted in the night air and vanished. They'd been lifted from my heart and that was enough.

After I'd finished by the window I returned to my Otosan's side, curling up on the floor as the time creaped into the early morning hours and slowly, but surly, I drifted off beside him.

A/N: I know I rushed through a lot there in the middle but I didn't want to basically re-write the whole anime/manga so... I jumped a bit! I hope I explained enough and it all makes sense. I'll probably do some looking back at time in the Academy, etc. in later chapters.

Please leave a review and tell me what you thought! Also, thanks for readying, I hope you enjoyed it.