Theirs wasn't a friendship forged like a clap of thunder. It was neither immediate nor earth shattering. Even as their eyes met, there was no inkling, no hint of what they'd grow to mean to each other. There was no violent clash of personalities (though not to say they didn't clash). Their first meeting was. . .unremarkable, and they walked away with the other already trickling from their mind. They were young men. Hot-blooded. Passionate. Intelligent. And prone to anger. But they would grow.

And their friendship would become the stuff of legends.

~.~

Many Centuries Ago...

Darkness hung thick and heavy deep in the Rukongai. Too poor to afford even the wax of a candle, those of the distant districts felt the night more keenly than those from the Sereitei. With the shadows the closest they'd come to a blanket, those of the 78th District wrapped themselves tightly in its embrace. As if the blood and secrets and death surrounding them could be muffled. Like somehow the horrors of the night could be masked by the intangible.

Three hooded figures passed through the streets of the 78th. They were lucky, for in it's greed the shadows swallowed even the light of the moon, masking their cautious and confident progress. Lucky, for even their stride set them apart from those who clung to the walls and crept down its alleys. Had they been spotted they'd have been robbed, beaten, and left for dead. And everything would have been over before it began.

They were lucky. But you could have fooled them.

Swiftly and silently they passed through the reeking streets, crossed—with only the slightest hesitation—over swollen bodies, and left the district as silently as they'd arrived. Just as they crossed the outermost border, a muffled hiccup shattered the twilight stillness. Twin blades tore from their sheaths like the crack of lightening, their owners frozen, ready for an attack. Meanwhile, the third dropped his chin and cooed tensely at his chest, his shoulders taut with fear. Several quiet minutes passed before swords were hesitantly returned to their sheaths.

Lucky again. For the cry of a child, if heard, summoned the vilest of men.

With new urgency, those three phantoms moved off the dirt road and into the dark forest. Silence fell again, interrupted only by the wheezing, watery breaths of the now awake child. It was to the sound of its tiny whimpers that they reached their destination. All three breathed a sigh of relief.

The tiny shack before them was old and decrepit. With rotting wood and questionable shingles, it looked as if a lone breeze would send it folding in on itself. The figure holding the child started forward eagerly before the hand of his companion fell on his shoulder. Keeping him in place, the second motioned to the third. At the cue, he drew his blade and stepped forward, the two behind him waiting anxiously as he opened the teetering door and entered. Time stretched, but he soon came out nodding his head.

The cloak hiding the babe swiftly left the other two and entered the shanty. Whispered words between the last two were shared before the second man entered as well. The third stayed outside as was his place. He was merely a guard, and what happened behind that door—good or bad—was not for his eyes.

Entering the shack, the second man noticed his companion had already lit their candles in the moments he'd been outside. The flickering light cast morbid shadows about the tiny room, making the darkness weigh upon him even more heavily. The scraping of flint was followed by a lit match, and another candle glowed. Even in the dim light, he noticed trembling shoulders beneath the others cloak.

Kneeling down, he pulled the smaller figure to his side and curled his large hand across the babe's back, it's quiet gasps tearing at his heart.

"We made it," he murmured, rubbing soothingly at the infant. He was met with only silence. With a sigh, he slowly pulled back the hood and long, jet-black hair tumbled from its confines and fell across dainty cheekbones. Only then did her watery eyes meet his.

Yes, she was a woman. And that woman was his wife.

"And with only this ancient shrine to show for it," she whispered brokenly. A lone tear fell silently before being brushed away.

His wife was beautiful, body and soul, but despair had sapped the life from her. With every weak cough from their only child, she'd lost a little more of herself. And now? With her sunken cheeks, and ashen skin, and trembling hands? Her beauty was a mere shell of what it had been.

"We've been reduced to chasing the whispers and rumors of the superstitious." Though her words were angry, they were too infused with tears to have any bite.

He pressed his forehead to her temple. "Whatever it takes." His grave words drew her eyes. She nodded in agreement just as their little boy coughed with a cry. Tears silently filled her eyes again as she quietly unwrapped the boy from her cloak and set him before the shrine of Mimihagi as if in offering. His wife settled into a kow-tow and began her whispered prayers.

The man stared at the wooden figurine atop the minuscule shrine. An odd god, for it was shaped like a clenched fist with a closed eye on its back. A simple tunic covered its body—or its arm?—and a band floated above its 'head'. An odd god with odd powers, he'd been told.

Slowly, so slowly he'd barely noticed, what with the candles warm light and his wife's soft pleas, he settled into himself. His breathing deepened, his heart slowed, and his eyelids drooped in time with the flickering candles. With only an absent awareness, he watched as the flames slowed and stretched. Slowed and stretched. As though, like he and his wife, they were reaching out, desperately crying for that little figurine. And slowly, ever so slowly, his eyes were dragged back to the shrine of the little fist-god.

The little fist god with its squinting eye.

The wind, with its gentle rustling, fell silent. The symphony of night time insects hushed. His wife's mumbled prayers died.

And the eye snapped opened.

Terror gripped him at its blank stare. He panted through his flared nose, his lips sealed by an unseen force. A darkness seized his soul and held him captive, and he despaired. He was a caged beast pinned by a predator so monstrous he couldn't even cry out in fear.

And slowly—gods so slowly!—the shadow of that vile god grew and stretched and his torment spiked as he watched it creep toward his son, lying helpless at the feet of the beast. With muffled screams of panic, the man shook with fright. For it looked like a great, dark fist reaching out to strike the life from his tiny body. Too soon, its shadow swallowed the child, softening his outline until only his whimpering cries could be heard.

A pulse of reiatsu shook the shack. A second knocked the breath from his lungs, and a third sent him sprawling, gasping for air. A humming crashed into him so fiercely and deep it ripped a scream from him. His mind was stripped of its reason as he succumbed to his primal fear.

It was to his mindless relief and horror that just when he thought he was to die, he slipped swiftly into unconsciousness.

He woke to the cry of his name. Peeling his eyes open, he saw his wife hovering over him with tears in her eyes. "What happened?" he croaked, sitting up slowly. His head pounded.

"It worked!" she cried. Shifting something in her grip, she grabbed his face and kissed him everywhere. "Look at our boy! Our healthy boy!"

Unsteadily, as if in a dream, he looked at the bundle in his wife's arms. The boy—his son—yawned deep and clear before falling asleep, breathing near silently.

"His hair," he breathed.

"A gift from the gods," she sang, dropping kisses on their son's little face.

A cold sweat broke out across his body. Hesitantly, he turned to face the shrine with its close-eyed fist god.

"My little Jushiro," his wife whispered as an icy chill crept down his back.

~.~

That Same Evening...

Darkness fell in the Sereitei unnoticed by its residences. The night held no such evils for those blessed by its safety, so its swift approach went on without comment. Especially in one particular Noble home.

It was in that home of opulence that a boy could be found in its sitting room atop a plush purple cushion. Across the table, a man much older than he sat in patient contemplation. It was a peaceful silence, broken only by the crackling of a roaring fireplace and the tapping of moving game pieces.

The boy was as diminutive as the man was broad. Round and soft as his elder was hard and angular. With angelic cheeks and curly chocolate hair, his look of intense concentration would have made even the least maternal of women cluck and coo.

The child held no such charm on the older. "Your move, boy," he said gutturally.

The boy's lips pinched. "Yes, Ojii-sama."

Between them sat a go board. Black pieces dominated the board, surrounding their fairer opponent at every turn. The old man sighed as he waited. It would have been obvious to even the most mediocre of players that the boy had already lost. Determination and enthusiasm could only carry the lad so far. Experience, something Yokuto had centuries of, would come with time. No amount of wriggling or whining would change that. Nonetheless, the boy was making marked improvement, so the head of the home was pleased. Whether at home or in battle, strategy was a skill best learned in youth.

The boy had just raised his hand to move when the entrance of a servant distracted him.

"Kyoraku-sama, you have a guest. Shall I send him in?"

The wrinkles on his brow deepened. "Is he unaware of the hour?" he growled. "Who is it?"

"Yamamoto-soutaicho, my lord."

Yokuto Kyoraku, head of the Kyoraku Clan, huffed disdainfully. "Soutaicho? The man's arrogance continues to surprise. Send him up, Isao."

The door slid shut. Steepling his fingers, Yokuto hummed quietly to himself. What could that thrice-damned idealist want now? He already had his school for those Rukongai filth, if it could even be called a school in the first place. A small tug on his sleeve dragged him from his thoughts.

"Who's Yamamoto?" the boy asked.

"A dreamer," he replied tersely. Reaching forward, he rested his large hand atop the boy's curls. "Watch and listen before you speak, boy. Observe first. Ask later."

The boy frowned cutely. "Yes, Ojii-sama," he grumbled, leaning back with crossed arms. Yokuto couldn't stop his chuckle any more than he could stop his unwelcome guest from entering the study.

"Yamamoto-sensei," he greeted gruffly. He'd be damned before calling him something so pompous as soutaicho. "Time must have escaped you. Now is hardly the time for house calls.

Genryusai nodded sharply. "It was important I see you as soon as possible, Kyoraku-sama. No matter the hour."

Yokuto hummed ambivalently, gesturing smoothly for Genryusai to sit. As his guest settled, Yokuto sensed the restless shifting of his grandson. No matter the audience, the lad wasn't used to being ignored.

Their guest was old, thought the boy. As old as Ojii-sama. Caverns burrowed deep into the man's face—lines like his elders. Ones born from frowns and glares. Two scars criss-crossed his balding skull, holding the boy's enraptured gaze. His eyes widened at what must have been a fierce injury.

"I have a proposition for you, as head of one of the Noble Families," the old warrior said over the boy's head.

The young lad drew in a deep breath and held it, a look of deep focus settling on his features. Even he, in his inexperience, could sense the vast presence of this newcomer. Shakily, he reached out with his untrained reiatsu, for this man Yamamoto had yet to be explored enough to satisfy the child's curiosity. After several seconds of red-faced determination and stretching near to his limit, his tiny reiatsu finally brushed the surface of Yamamoto's.

A bolt of fire shot up his nerves and stiffened his body before what felt like a mighty seal slammed shut. Panting, and with eyes wide in wonder, the boy stared heavily at the man whose gaze had been drawn.

It was huge! Larger than anything he'd ever felt! Bigger than Otou-sama's. Bigger than Ojii-sama's! And scorching to the touch. His own reiatsu ached after making contact.

Something flicked his ear. "You know better, boy," his grandfather barked barked. "Keep your damned reiatsu to yourself."

He only rubbed his ear absently. "Yes, Ojii-sama," he said dutifully, eyes still reverently locked on Yamamoto's.

"No harm done, Kyoraku-sama. He learned." His eyes lingered on the boy before turning away. The lad was both disappointed and relieved. "Perhaps a more private venue? One without distractions."

The boy frowned as his grandfather conceded. "To bed, Shunsui-chan."

Young Shunsui Kyoraku's protest was quelled in light of his elder's glare. "Yes, Ojii-sama." And he left.

And all the way back to his room he felt a faint pressure on his reiatsu. As if someone were watching.

~.~

Several Years Later...

The Kyoraku gardens were something of a marvel among the noble classes. Gazonias took root next to plumeras, while the beautiful nicotiana sweetened the air around them. Ivy vines dotted with scarlet morning glories delicately wrapped around stone fountains. The cherry blossom trees littered the paths with their blooms while the mighty pines stoically stood guard.

The Lady of the home boasted of hundreds of species all maintained by her hand and a small crew. During her tours, her fingers trailed lovingly on the bark of the trees and gently pulled the blooming flowers to her nose, daintily sniffing with a pleased smile.

Magical, the women sighed. Beautiful, the men admitted.

And most definitely maintained solely by the help, they'd whisper smugly.

By one gardener in particular, and a select few of her choosing. Ayaka Ohmae was a gentle, middle-aged woman with soft features and kind eyes. Beautiful? Not really. The trials of life had stolen her youth early, and gray hairs already had a premature presence on her head. Life danced in her fingertips, however, and flowed into whatever she touched; Lady Kyoraku guarded her talents fiercely for it.

It was a compliment, she knew. It wasn't often a servant was able to do something they loved all day.

Leaving the hustle and bustle of busy servants, Ayaka made her way to one of the gardens far corners, gloves in hand. Unfortunately, the more hidden sections of greenery were often neglected for the sake of the more visible. Lady Kyoraku had a show to put on after all, epecially with the upcoming festival. Luckily, the Lady was pleased with what she'd seen, thus allowing Ayaka to care for the patches of plants most in need.

The inner Kyoraku gates loomed higher and higher as she slowly approached them, dwarfing her and even the trees around her. One only had to look upon the Kyoraku gates to know this family valued privacy. Spotting an unruly patch with her sharp eye, Ayaka donned her gloves, enjoying the scrape of its familiar fabric. She'd just settled into her work when a large and heavy sigh above her head startled both her and a nesting sparrow. With a small smile and quiet laugh, Ayaka put her hands in her lap and looked up into the tree above her. She knew of only one who enjoyed the scrape of bark against his back.

"My lord?" She called up, shading her eyes against the sun.

A beat of silence before rustling branches parted and a boy—very nearly a young man—emerged. "Oh, it's just you, Ohmae-san."

Her smile grew at his sheepish grin and poorly masked relief. "Indeed, only me."

The young nobleman disappeared amongst the leaves, so Ayaka returned to her pruning, listening the boy's not-so-silent descent. A quiet thud hinted at his safe return to the ground.

"What are you doing, Ohmae-san?" he asked curiously.

She turned and smiled teasingly at him. "Gardening, my lord." She watched him fight against rolling his eyes.

"I know. All you do is garden."

She laughed musically at his put-upon expression. Pausing in her pruning, she pulled a pair of gloves the young lord's exact size from her apron and held them out in offering. "Would you like to assist me?"

He nearly snatched the gloves from her before dropping to his knees at her side. She began instructing and guiding him, watching as he absorbed the information like a sponge.

The young Kyoraku had an endearing and enthusiastic interest in her work. So much so, she'd begun carrying around a pair of gloves for him in case she came across him in the garden. He didn't have a natural talent for it, she thought, but he was learning and followed her instructions very well. Conversation died as her directions ceased, the quiet between them a comfortable one.

"Are you going to tell my parents where I am?" he asked, breaking their companionable silence as she knew he would.

A stubborn weed pulled free. "I'm afraid I've no idea where you are, my lord," she said, eyes twinkling. "My attention tends to wander when I garden." Though he didn't answer, she saw his smile.

A few seconds passed as they together pruned the overgrown patch. "You should wear a hat, Ohmae-san," he said suddenly.

She shook her head fondly at the swiftness of his thoughts. "Oh?"

"It's hot. You'll burn."

She laughed again at his serious tone. "I'll keep it in mind, my lord. Though you should consider getting one yourself, if you'll forgive my saying so. You're nearly as dark as I."

He waved a dignified hand. "You're forgiven." She turned away lest he see her amused smile. It always tickled her when the young Kyoraku boy played at being Lord. Ayaka was by no means young and had been a servant for the Kyoraku's most of her life. She remembered the boy's birth and had fondly seen him grow with each passing year. She could scarcely imagine him as a grown man, let alone an esteemed nobleman of the honorable house of Kyoraku.

The conversation died naturally, and Ayaka left the lad alone with his thoughts, as that seemed to be his preference of late.

The boy could charm a Hollow with his grin, Ayaka knew as much. Especially since he often and successfully turned his charisma on her. A sweet child, who she'd seen raise a lost kitten behind the backs of his family.

He was already proving to be handsome. Though baby fat clung to his face, one could tell it was just barely keeping its grip. With his steel gray eyes and thick unruly curls, all the servants said he'd grow to look identical to his father and grandfather before him. Tall, broad, and angular. The Kyoraku blood ran deep in this one, and it wouldn't be long before the young noblewomen would swoop upon him like a pack of harpies.

His ceased movements caught her attention. Glancing at him from the corner of her eye, she watched as he stared into the distance.

And yet, for all his laughter and smiles and good looks, there was a sadness in him. A sadness that cloaked itself in anger, for she'd seen how viciously he sparred with his brother.

She turned her eyes back to her work just before a muffled thump sounded beside her. It certainly wasn't proper for a member of the Kyoraku House to lay in the dirt, but Ayaka held her tongue. She was only a servant.

"I know I should be in there. With everyone. I just don't want to be."

Ayaka continued gardening quietly, for now they were getting to the heart of it. He very rarely hid in the garden unless something troubled him.

"There's no point in me going, you know," he said matter-of-factly. "Kenzo-ani's starting to take on more responsibilities so Okaa-san will be showing him off to everyone. Not that I care or anything," he added quickly at Ayaka's look. His cheeks reddened and he sat up. "It's just," he paused, shrugging rather hopelessly. "If no one's even going to look at me why should I go? I'm only the second son." He stared at her oddly.

Ayana's heart fractured, and she couldn't help reaching for him. He didn't react when she touched his shoulder or lean away when she slowly drew him into a hug. His breathing hitched in her neck once before settling.

"I'm too old for hugs, Ohmae-san," he mumbled beneath her ear.

She rubbed his back soothingly. "Of course, my lord." His arms shifted to wrap around her tightly. Their hug was warm and sweet, and her heart swelled when she felt him lean into her. "You're not just a second son, Shunsui-kun," she said, startling the boy into staring up at her. She cupped his young face in her small, soiled hands. "You are kind and you are strong." Indeed there were rumors he'd already surpassed his elder brother's skill. Prodigy, they whispered. She brushed a curl away only to watch it settle back into place. "You have so much good in you. Even if others cannot see it."

The boy's eyes shimmered for a moment before they dropped. "I just-" he cut himself off with a sigh, "wish I didn't have to go," he finished lamely.

Ayaka placed a feather-light kiss on the boy's crown. "I know, my lord."

"Shunsui," the boy blurted. Ayaka's confusion reddened his cheeks. "Could you call me that?" he asked, shifting his weight. "Shunsui?"

The middle-aged gardener smiled gently. "As you wish, Shunsui-kun."

~.~

Festivals of any kind had a rather rabid effect on the people of the Soul Society. The common folk flooded the narrow streets with shouts and laughter, all in search for pleasure and distraction to break up the monotony of their existence. If one was lucky, one lived in the Sereitei and was in the employment of a noble family, or at the very least lived on their land. There was safety in such an environment, one that allowed for the optimal festival experience with all the drinking and carousing one desired without the added paranoia of danger lurking at every corner.

The nobles were no different in their pursuit of pleasure, but more than that, festivals had become a pissing contest among the Great Houses. Who brought the best food? Drink? The most attendants? Whose daughter was the most stunning? Whose son the most accomplished? It was a competition of comparison where there was no clear victor and everyone was a judge. No one was exempt from high society's harsh standards.

~.~

A Few Years Later...

That Same Festival...

"Are you feeling okay, Jushiro-ani?"

Jushiro turned around from his seat on the porch. In the doorway of his room stood a girl a bit shorter than himself with a suspicious frown on her face and dark ebony hair tied up into an intricate and fashionable style. Affection cooled the irritation that churned his belly. "I'm fine, Kimi," he sighed, rising to his feet. Entering his room he shut the door, quieting the heavy wind that had been tearing across their land.

"Well then hurry up. We're getting ready to leave and the servants need help with the twins." She left the doorway with an expectant air, knowing her elder brother would follow her, and he did so with little prodding. He lengthened his stride, catching up quickly. "I don't know why the servants don't just leave the boys to us. All they do is make them hysterical," Kimi scowled angrily as he came up beside her.

"It's not their fault, Kimi. They're just doing their duty."

She whipped around and glared at him. Jushiro rolled his eyes, and Kimi smacked him in the chest in response. "Watch it, Nii-chan." He rubbed his chest amusedly.

Servants bustled back and forth, stopping with a swift bow to their young lord and lady before hurrying on to complete their duties. Each show of respect was acknowledged with a nod without ceasing their conversation. Or more like without a halt in Kimi's complaining. As they moved through their estate, it wasn't long before the two eldest of the Ukitake family heard the screams and wails of two of the youngest. With a quick resigned and determined look, Jushiro and Kimi sped up in silence.

A door in front of them suddenly slammed open, and a severe looking boy with a pinched frown and coal-black hair in a low ponytail emerged. He scowled down the hallway as if the two howling children could sense his displeasure before noticing Jushiro and Kimi. "Shut them up," he said, his clipped tone belying the obvious anger on his face. "I can't even think with all their whining."

"How about instead you shut that damn book behind your back and get ready yourself," Kimi hissed, her ire getting the better of her.

Isamu's ears heated and eyes narrowed. Sensing the oncoming eruption, and before Isamu could offer a scathing reply, Jushiro spoke up. "He can read as long as he's ready in time," he said, shooting a disapproving look at his sister. She huffed at him indignantly. "But we do need you to herd Kenshin and Kazuko. Otou-san is getting everything prepared to leave, and Okaa-san is probably with Masami."

With a curt nod and a sharp glare at Kimi, Isamu slammed his door shut. Kimi looked ready to kick it in when Jushiro dropped a steadying hand on her shoulder. "You really need to control yourself," he said, squeezing her tightly when she tried to shake him off. "You're not going to find a husband with that attitude of yours."

"Piss off," she snapped, pinching his hand harshly to get him to let go. "You sound like Otou-san."

Ignoring the sharp pain in his hand, Jushiro chuckled lightly before heading toward the still-shrieking twins. "Perhaps because he's right."

The screaming grew louder as they got closer and peaked when they entered their twin brother's room. Both were only semi-clothed, and their cries bounced off the walls, reverberating maddeningly in Jushiro's mind. Several servants stood by attempting to calm and coerce the little ones into their clothes, the strained look on some and the panicked look on others only heightened the distress of the young ones.

Kimi strode in aggressively, the servants releasing the boys and backing away at her approach. Paying them no heed, she marched right up to the crying children and halted in front of them. Jushiro knew just from her back that she was restraining from raining veritable hell down on the boys. Leaving her to her devices, and the boy's quickly dying screams, Jushiro approached Sayuri Kurosawa, the twins head attendant. At his approach Sayuri bowed low in embarrassment. "Forgive us, my lord. It seems we've upset them." Again hung unspoken in the air.

With a wave, Jushiro dismissed her concerns. "Kimi and I will tend to them. I'm sure Okaa-san could use some assistance," he hinted with a genial smile.

"I'll see to her, my lord." She left swiftly, her gaggle of helpers following like ducklings.

Jushiro turned and saw Sora and Masa standing beneath Kimi's cold glare, rubbing their wet eyes with tiny hands. Jushiro couldn't help the softening of his gaze, but he remained silent, knowing they'd seize upon his weakness in a heartbeat.

The twins were identical in every way. The same round face framed with the same black hair and the same pouted lips. They were still young enough that Okaa-san wanted them dressed the same, so unless one knew them well, they were impossible to tell apart. Only the Ukitake's and the boy's attendants could distinguish the two. Sora, for all his crocodile tears, was far more outspoken and stubborn than his twin. Masa, though quieter, led them both into far more mischief than they'd have gotten into by themselves. Individually they were a handful. Together, they were impossible.

"Sorry, Kimi-ane," Masa sniffled.

"No you're not," Kimi snapped. "If you were, you wouldn't do this over and over again." The boy's eyes filled with tears again.

Gently gripping his sister's elbow he said, "Why don't you go check on Isamu? I'll get these two ready and meet you out front."

She shot him a look that said she knew he felt guilty for their youngest brothers' tears. Not able to deny it, Jushiro shrugged and could only smiled sheepishly. Kimi snorted in response before turning without a backwards glance and leaving.

With her angry presence gone, Jushiro turned and focused on the little ones in front of him. They looked up at him guiltily, obviously unsure whether their eldest brother was upset with them. With a sigh, Jushiro squatted until he was eye level with the twins. "Have you calmed down?" They both nodded furtively. "Good. Now get dressed. We're leaving soon." He mussed their hair to their obvious delight.

"Okay, Jushi-ani," they chorused before plopping down to pull at their tousled clothing.

Once they'd finally righted their outfits, Jushiro took each in hand and led them out. The hallways were quiet. Catching up the babbling twins in his arms, Jushiro quickened his steps, his long strides eating the distance, for the silence could only mean the rest of the house was ready to depart. With the added pressure of his pace and the twins squeezing his chest, his lungs tightened painfully. Coughing lightly, Jushiro cleared away the invisible obstruction with not a hitch in his step. It was so minor an occurrence it barely registered.

Exiting onto the front lawn, only slightly paying attention to the twins chatter, Jushiro and Masa and Sora entered the sea of people just inside their inner gate. Attendants and cooks and guards and all others bustled about with shouts and clattering and laughter.

"My lords?" a voice called, immediately catching Jushiro's attention. "Your parents are waiting for you at the gate." Jushiro thanked the servant politely, ignoring the twins as they playfully yanked his white hair.

It took only moments to locate the rest of the Ukitakes.

Yuudai Ukitake was a whirlwind of movement, stopping only long enough to greet his eldest and youngest sons with a warm smile before continuing on, shouting orders as he went. He was a tall, lean man with tousled black hair and thick brows to go with his full beard. Yuudai was a man of action, and these grand ventures out of the Ukitake land provided him with just enough excitement to get him bouncing in his shoes.

Lined up outside the gate were two carriages, and it was there Jushiro spotted his mother and the rest of his family.

Hana Ukitake had a maternal beauty. If anyone were meant to be a mother it was she. Kindness could be found in her smile. Patience in her every word. Hana carried herself with a grace and dignity not found in most women, even as a tough mother with high expectations for her children. And each of them truly longed for her approval. It was in the midst of her children, giving them all one last look-over, that Jushiro saw her. Each child was being assigned to a carriage all while she patiently answered the non-stop barrage of questions she received from the servants of her home. And dead asleep in her arms, little Masami's face scrunched cutely against her.

Next to Hana, Kimi had just finished herding Kazuko and Kenshin into the last carriage when she noticed Jushiro and the twins. "Masa," she said as Jushiro lowered the two to the ground, "climb in with Kenshin and Kazuko. Sora, you'll be with Jushiro-ani."

To Jushiro's surprise, Masa simply nodded and climbed up into the last carriage. Apparently he'd not yet forgotten Kimi's anger. "You're with kaa-san and tou-san, Jushiro-ani," she ordered before climbing into the second carriage. "If you see Isamu, tell him he's in this carriage with us," she threw over her shoulder before shutting the carriage door.

A little hand settled into his own, and Jushiro looked down into Sora's wide eyes. "Let's go sit, Jushi-nii," he said, giving Jushiro a gap-toothed grin.

Jushiro eyes crinkled at his little brother. "Go ahead and save me a seat. I'm going to speak to Okaa-san." Little Sora pouted before slipping out of his eldest brother's hand and heading to the first carriage. Keeping an eye on him to make sure he got in without difficulty, Jushiro headed over to his mother.

She'd just sent away a servant when she saw him. "Jushiro," she exclaimed, a wide grin splitting her face. Quickly running her eyes over him and his festival attire, she reached up to cup his face. "My handsome son!"

Jushiro rolled his eyes at her enthusiasm. "Thanks, Okaa-san," he said, reaching out to take his sleeping sister from her. "I'll take Masami so you and Otou-san can finish up."

Hana gratefully handed her over before pressing the back of her hand to his face. "Are you sure you're feeling okay? There's no shame in it if you need to stay home this year."

Jushiro shifted Masami to one arm and pulled his mother's hand from his face. "I'm fine," he told her, not completely able to mask his irritation. He'd already missed last year's festival due to his illness. A heavy hand suddenly clapped him on the shoulder.

"Leave him be, Hana. He said he was fine," Yuudai boomed, shooting a wink at his startled son's grateful look.

Hana glared at her husband. "Oh be quiet, you great baboon. You'll wake Masami."

Yuudai leaned over Jushiro and dropped an affectionate kiss on his youngest's sleeping brow. "A horde of Hollows couldn't wake this one," he smiled, running a finger lightly down her cheek.

Hana humphed impatiently. "Ignore your father and get into the carriage. He has things he needs to be doing," she hinted with a glare.

The Ukitake Head threw back his head and laughed. "And to think I was wondering where Kimi gets her attitude," he declared before hurrying away, his wife hot on his heels.

With an amused sigh, Jushiro carried his dead-to-the-world sister into the front carriage and sat next to the already chattering Sora. Luckily, it wasn't as much a conversation as it was a childish monologue, and Jushiro didn't need to contribute much. Instead, he tucked Masami's warm body into a more comfortable position and settled in to wait. It was to be a long ride and there was much to think on.

~.~

Later That Same Evening...

"Head of the Ukitake Family, Lord Yuudai and his wife Lady Hana with sons, lords Jushiro, Isamu, Kazuko, Kenshin, Masa, and Sora, and daughters, ladies Kimi and Masami."

Damn. What a mouthful, Shunsui thought as he nursed his drink in a corner of the vast hall, watching silently as the Ukitake's entered and began mingling with the crowd. That minor noble family had always been a source of mild entertainment for Shunsui, as it seemed there was a new addition to their numbers each year.

However, they were merely a distraction, and not even a decent one at that. Turning his attention to far more pressing matters, the young lord scanned the crowd over the rim of his cup searching for one person in particular. Spotting a bold purple kimono, Shunsui grinned and threw back the rest of his drink, quickly replacing it with another as he made his way through the crowd.

Every few paces someone called him over, successfully distracting him from his target. With men, there were pounded backs and raucous laughter, inappropriate jokes and sloshed drinks. With the woman, there was giggling, and flirting, and not-so-innocent touching before Shunsui stole away after planting a parting kiss wherever she allowed him.

He worked a crowd easily and enjoyed the adrenaline that drove him forward, that pushed him into toeing the line of propriety. He loved seeing just what he could get away with. And he got away with so very much.

It was in the midst of a particularly dirty joke that a flash of violet caught his eye. Though he continued to the punchline without a hitch, his gaze locked onto another's.

Hinaka Tsukuda, with her painted eyes, teasing smile, and revealing purple kimono, easily caught the attention of every hot-blooded young man in her vicinity, and Shunsui was no exception. He felt her gaze wander up and down his heated body before shooting a searing look his way. Seemingly unaffected by his own returning stare, she turned to her companions and giggled lightly before leaving the circle. With not even a backwards glance, she exited the hall.

Quickly wrapping up his joke to the roaring approval of those around him, Shunsui excused himself and headed lazily to where Hinaka had disappeared. Several attempted to catch his attention but he waved them off or ignored them entirely.

Once out from under the eyes of the crowd, Shunsui loped down the hallway, peeking around corners and opening doors in an attempt to find her. A few servant girls caught him searching a closet, but he winked roguishly at them and watched them giggle out of sight.

"Looking for someone?"

He whipped around swiftly. Hinaka stood just behind him, with her hands clasped innocently behind her back, a ploy to push her chest out. Not that he was complaining. Shunsui chuckled lightly. "Only for the most alluring creature at this party," he said with honeyed sweetness, approaching her slowly.

"Oh?" She raised a teasing brow. Her painted lips parted for enchantingly white teeth. "And who might that be, my dear Shunsui?"

Shunsui snorted in response. "You're false modesty doesn't fool me, Hinaka-chan," he mocked teasingly, pulling her against him. His thoughts muddled now that he had her soft curves pressed against him. "You've bewitched me," he murmured.

"Now see who lies," she teased back before pressing her lips lightly to his. She attempted to pull away but he followed her, her soft groan heating his blood. Twisting her head away from him, Shunsui placed undeterred, warm kisses down her neck.

"Do you plan on accosting me in the hall, Lord Kyoraku?" she asked breathlessly.

Chuckling into her collarbone, Shunsui slid up until his lips brushed her ear. "I plan on accosting you anywhere you let me, my lady." His eyes closed in bliss when she shivered against him. Suddenly, her hand pushed against his chest, making him lean back.

Her heavy breathing drew his eyes to her chest. "Perhaps another time," she teased, grabbing his large hand in her little one. "Come with me. I've learned a trick or two since I saw you last." He couldn't have stopped his body's reaction even if he'd wanted.

She swiftly led them to a room far from the party for an hour's worth of pleasurable distraction.

~.~

Too soon for Shunsui's taste, he left the warm arms of a woman and was out surrounded by the racket of the evening's festivities. The party had spilled out into the garden in his absence and was going just as strongly as when he'd left. Laughter and music filled the air as did fireworks and the sizzling sounds of dinner. Children scampered around the adults, their squeals and games an entertainment to all, while their parents looked on in amusement, drinking their fill of sake as the night wore on. He was very nearly disoriented with all the colors and lights and noise. His dear mother had certainly outdone herself.

After his extremely pleasurable workout, Shunsui felt relaxed and very lethargic. He strolled lazily amongst the crowd until he found a table with servants pouring cups of sake. Grabbing one for himself, he toasted the servant with a lazy grin, tossed it back, and picked up another before turning to wander the crowd again.

A large hand gripping his upper arm stopped him in his tracks. "How is it the party's barely started and you've already managed to bed a whore?" a low voice hissed in his ear.

A simmering heat boiled in his stomach, but Shunsui plastered a smile on his face. "Now, now Nii-chan," he said genially. "Are you listening to rumors again?"

The grip on his arm tightened painfully. "You've already embarrassed our family, Shunsui," Kenzo growled. "Keep your damned whoring under control. The Kyoraku House will not be home to any bastard children you sire."

When Shunsui said nothing in return, Kenzo gave him one last disgusted look before stalking away, the crowd swiftly hiding him from view. Mood thusly ruined, Shunsui scowled and downed his second cup darkly. Kenzo had such a remarkable talent for pissing him off.

A cruel smile twisted his lips. A pregnancy scare. Now that would be funny.

The hours wasted on. What had been exciting at first quickly grew tedious as Shunsui consumed more and more alcohol to fuel his exuberance. As his boredom and inebriation increased, so too did his frenzied desire to stay entertained. He quickly bounced from group to group, leeching what little stimulus he could before moving on to the next.

He'd just begun feeling bored again when he noticed his brother some distance away. His mood fell once more. He was about to turn away and drown himself in more booze when he noticed Kenzo speaking with a dark-haired girl.

Now, Shunsui prided himself on being a high-functioning drunk. But this late into the evening and after as many drinks as he'd had, even his thoughts were sluggish and unfocused. However, he was pretty sure he'd seen his brother several times over the past few hours speaking to that same girl. His curiosity was piqued. And to his great pleasure, he watched his dear older brother bow in farewell to the girl before she left his side and made her way down one of the garden paths.

With barely a thought spared for his actions, Shunsui headed toward the object of his sudden drunken interest.

~.~

With each step she took, the raucous sounds of the festival dimmed until only the loudest cries of celebration could be heard. Soon, she was surrounded only by the serene sounds of nature and the crunch of gravel beneath her feet, much to her relief.

Kimi was a girl accustomed to noise. Her family was a large and boisterous bunch that encouraged a semi-chaotic atmosphere even amongst the help. She herself contributed a fair deal to the racket, having a fuse unapologetically shorter than most. In fact, she'd say the quiet generally grated her nerves and set her teeth to grinding. However, though she thrived in the mayhem, even she needed time for herself.

Aimlessly following the lit path, Kimi quickly came across a bench at the edge of a scenic little pond. Pleased at her find, she lifted the hem of her kimono and quietly made her way to her new seat, eying each of the aesthetic blooms around her. The Kyoraku's certainly had a magic touch. She couldn't say she was interested much in flowers or anything of the sort, but even she could find her surroundings pleasing to the eye.

Knowing she wasn't being watched, Kimi sat heavily and kicked off her shoes, stretching her toes with great satisfaction. With a hearty sigh, she slouched into the bench, though taking great care to not ruin her hair. The servants spent so much damn time on it, she'd be pissed if it got ruined.

Finally comfortable after what felt like an eternity of fake giggling and polite exchanges and pleasant smiles, Kimi allowed herself a frown. She'd lost track of Jushiro fairly quickly upon arrival and her best friend, Akira Masuda, wasn't able to attend this festival, so Kimi had to resort to socializing with people she normally avoided.

One in particular was rather persistent. Kenzo Kyoraku. Oh, how Akira would squeal. With his strong jaw and hooded eyes and broad shoulders, he could work the girls her age into a frenzy if he so desired. He was a stoic man, not prone to smiles or frowns or any other displays of emotions. Level-headed, the people thought, as one who'd soon lead the clan should be.

Kimi had just slipped away from a group of insipid shrews and was wandering aimlessly when he'd first approach her. He'd introduced himself-as if she didn't know him already-before coolly offering to give her a tour of the grounds. Obviously unable to decline, and rather startled at his attention, Kimi followed him. He was polite and refined, offering his hand in assistance whenever appropriate and never touching her longer than propriety demanded. Conversation was light, and he listened politely when she spoke, chewing on her words before responding in kind.

Having been raised with six boys, romance tended to occupy very few of her thoughts. There just never seemed time to daydream of such things. She was swiftly approaching marriageable age, however, and she knew she was particularly eligible. With smooth skin and her mother's delicate features, Kimi was well aware of how many stares she caught, and just how much it appealed that her family was particularly fruitful in a world where children were particularly scarce. She was no fool. Marriage was a political tool. Not a means for love.

She could definitely do worse than catch the attention of the most eligible bachelor in the Seireitei, she thought with a noisy yawn. It certainly would benefit her family.

The crunch of approaching footsteps signaled someone's approach, and Kimi groaned softly at the interruption. As the noise grew louder, Kimi slipped on her shoes and sat up straight, turning to face the newcomer, hoping they'd simply continue past without noticing her.

No such luck.

"Hellooo," a deep voice rumbled musically. A man a bit older than herself came into view. Noticing her, a wide grin split his face and he bowed unsteadily. "I hope I didn't startle you, my lady."

Kimi raised an eyebrow at her obviously inebriated guest, saying nothing. Undeterred, the man turned and approached her, leaving the path without concern. Making sure to mask her annoyance at his intrusion, Kimi waited for him to come closer.

It was painfully clear the youngest Kyoraku stood before her. He was nearly identical to his brother in stature and girth, though the youngest's hair hung shaggily to his ears while the older's was worn short. Kenzo and Shunsui obviously hailed from the same line. However, though their similarities were unmistakable, their differences were impossible to ignore.

One could tell just by his gait that Shunsui was the more relaxed of the two, if his shit-eating grin didn't already give it away. His over-the-top movements coupled with his flair for the dramatic made him seem bigger than he was. Rumors abounded with this one, Kimi knew, his life of indulgence second only to his father before him. It seemed Shunsui bore his sins and vices with little shame and much celebration.

Akira would fall for him in a moment. Just from his reputation, Kimi knew him to be an ass.

He halted a polite distance from her. "Forgive me, but I seem to be lost. These gardens are massive and I'm afraid I've gotten a bit turned around." She narrowed her eyes suspiciously. Was he serious? Shunsui looked as helpless as a pup. He suddenly brightened with childish glee. "If only I had a beautiful escort to guide me through this maze!" he cried dramatically, playfully peeking at her from the corner of his eye.

Definitely drunk, Kimi thought as she rose from her seat. "Odd that a Kyoraku would get lost in his own garden," she said, casually smoothing the front of her kimono. He froze as she strode past him. Maybe if she distanced herself now nobody would see her with him. Shunsui Kyoraku's reputation was a mile long. She most certainly didn't want to soil her own.

"Stunning and perceptive," he sheepishly complimented from her back. He pulled up beside Kimi and grinned down at her. "I shall count myself lucky for every moment I have your attention."

Scarcely containing her rolling eyes, Kimi continued on without comment.

"And mysterious," he continued, obviously not put off by her silence. "I come across such a lovely creature in my own garden, one who already knows my name. And yet here I find her unwilling to grace me with her own." He reached down for her hand, stopping her. "Doesn't quite seem fair to me," he smiled charmingly, gently tugging her a step closer and capturing her in his steely gaze.

He was as smooth as the rumors said, and while she couldn't say she was entirely unaffected, if her pulse was anything to go by, Kimi was far from losing her wits. She shot him a light glare before sliding her hand from his. "Ukitake Kimi, as it pleases you, my lord," she said evenly, bowing politely before ducking around him.

"An Ukitake!" he cried exuberantly before rapidly praising her family and loudly expressing his fondness for them.

Luckily for Kimi, she'd been moving swiftly and could now see the fringes of the festival between the trees. With the youngest Kyoraku yakking away at her heels, Kimi sped up though Shunsui hardly seemed to notice. A white head among a small circle of nobles caught her attention.

"Jushiro," she called, interrupting whatever flirtation Shunsui was spouting. Her brother turned at his name and spotted her in a moment. He turned to excuse himself and headed toward them. Kimi nearly sighed in relief. Jushiro was unnaturally good at being available when she needed him. She felt her older brother scan her face briefly before offering a cordial smile to Shunsui.

"Good evening," he greeted pleasantly.

Shunsui, having suddenly fallen silent at her cry, nodded politely in return.

Feeling calm with Jushiro's steadying presence, Kimi remembered her manners. "Kyoraku-sama, may I introduce my elder brother, Ukitake Jushiro. Jushiro-niisama, I've recently had the pleasure of meeting Kyoraku-sama," she said, smoothly gesturing to each of the men.

"A pleasure to finally meet you, my lord," Jushiro said, politely bowing to the noblemen.

Shunsui waved a dismissive hand. "Likewise, likewise," he rushed. "I must tell you what a courageous sister you have!" he cried out, throwing an arm across Kimi's shoulders. She stiffened though held her tongue while Shunshi prattled on. "There I was, betrayed by my own garden, lost among its blooms, when out stepped this enthralling women to save me and bring me home!" he declared, just before planting a loud, smacking kiss on Kimi's cheek.

Kimi eyes popped as his lips left behind a warm imprint.

"Keep this one safe, Ukitake-san," he jokingly whispered to the shocked speechless Jushiro. "After I tell everyone of her selfless acts of bravery, men will lay prostrate at her feet."

Ignoring the dangerous red tint creeping up her face, Shunsui took hold of her shaking hands and pulled them once more to his chest. "Remember me fondly, my dear," he bemoaned, dropping a kiss to her knuckles. From his stooped posture, they were able to lock eyes. "I look forward to the next time you sweep me off my feet," he said coyly with a wink.

Tearing her hands away, Kimi's ineffective glare did nothing to dampen his energy, and with an exaggerated bow, the nobleman departed, quickly losing himself in the crowd.

~.~

Shunsui grinned madly as he downed another cup of sake.

How thrilled he'd been when he'd watched the Ukitake girl wander his garden, slouch on his bench, and curl her feminine little toes. Even the frown on her face had excited him for all he'd seen were feathers begging to be ruffled. And to kiss her in front of her older brother? Shunsui's fingertips still tingled from the rush.

Shunsui felt a familiar, scalding glare pierce between his shoulder blades as he threw back another.

Perhaps he imagined the dark giggling in the back of his mind.

~.~

The two Ukitake's were silent for a beat before Kimi let out a long-withheld, frustrated shriek. Fortunately, with the chatter and music hanging thickly in the air, nobody noticed the fit being thrown.

"What the hell," she hissed. "What the actual fucking hell!" Jushiro laid his standard calming hand on her shoulder, though his amused expression did little to settle her. "You think this is funny? What kind of big brother are you? You're supposed to be pissed!"

Jushiro shrugged sheepishly. "You seemed to have everything under control," he admitted. His brows pinched. "He didn't do anything did he?"

Kimi scowled at him. "Are you telling me you didn't notice how annoying he was? That he kissed me?"

Jushiro tossed his head in laughter, placing her arm in the crook of his. "He's harmless, Kimi-chan," he teased. "Just don't think about it anymore."

"Easy for you to say," she pouted as she followed her brother into the crowd.

The evening went on with little other excitement. Kimi stuck to Jushiro as they wandered, occasionally running into family and mutual acquaintances. Unfortunately for Kimi and her anti-social tendencies, Jushiro was her complete opposite. He was friendly and kind with a generous sense of humor that drew people to him like a magnet. He responded to their flocking with patient amusement, making time for all who approached. It was annoying. But to her great satisfaction, neither of the Kyoraku's attempted to speak to her for the rest of the evening, and, even with their constant crowd, she felt herself grow lighter with each passing hour.

Jushiro, however, was another story.

It wasn't obvious. He still smiled and laughed. He spoke without hesitation and with a grace Kimi could never hope to emulate. He was indeed making a very apparent effort in maintaining normalcy. But no one knew Jushiro better than her. And something in the way he was carrying himself set her senses ringing.

Kimi held her tongue as Jushiro entertained the people around them. Privacy was key. Jushiro would never admit to anything with a crowd surrounding them. And so the evening wore on while Kimi bided her time.

~.~

"What the hell is wrong with you?"

Startled from his thoughts more from Kimi's angry tone than her actual words, Jushiro looked ahead and saw Kimi several feet ahead of him. "What?" he blurted.

Kimi rolled her eyes. "You stopped walking," she grumbled, stepping back toward him.

Smiling self-consciously, Jushiro said, "Sorry. I don't know what I was thinking." Instead of her coming to his side like he'd anticipated, Kimi planted herself in front of him and crossed her arms.

"Something's been bothering you since before the party began," she waved her hand at his confused look. "Oh, stop playing stupid. Tell me now or I won't shut up about it."

Jushiro swallowed thickly and quickly glanced around. They'd somehow managed to wander to where the children were playing, and they were much more devoted to their games than the conversation between he and Kimi. "It's nothing, Kimi. Really," he muttered.

"Out with it," she demanded fiercely. "I don't know why you even thought I wouldn't notice."

After spending several seconds avoiding her eyes, Jushiro finally looked at her. Her posture was angry but her eyes were earnest. His shoulders sagged.

You either loved or hated Kimi, and Jushiro most definitely loved her. She was harsh and brash, but you could find no one with more honor or loyalty. Obstacles barely slowed her down when she fixated herself on something, and he knew she'd never ignore a problem she believed could be fixed. It was foolish to hide something from her, for there was no two people who knew each other better than he and her.

He shifted his feet nervously, and she raised an eyebrow. Jushiro sighed, ignoring the slight hitch in his breath. "I know what you're going to say," he began slowly. "But it doesn't much matter to me. I've made up my mind." She eyed him suspiciously.

"I'm going to become a Shinigami."