Hello again. It took me a bit longer than I thought to get this chapter out. Honestly, it was going to be almost twice as long until I realized I might as well just cut it in half and update. I do want to thank everyone for their support on my first chapter and appreciate everyone who took the time to review! You guys are great ^_^. Haha, I didn't think to clarify that this story was IchiHime but after glancing over the previous chapter, I could see why people were left unsure. Enjoy =D!

Disclaimer: Bleach belongs to Tite Kubo

It's been almost three months, and I still can't believe he's gone.

Orihime sighed into the cool morning breeze, and hoped that the sun would return from its hiding place soon. It was an uncommonly chilly summer day, and the sky was filled with clouds stretching as far as the eye could see. She pulled her shawl close and took another sip of her afternoon tea, wishing that her cousin would join her soon. She couldn't stand being left alone for long anymore.

She sat unaccompanied at the glass table on the patio and listlessly gazed at the empty grounds. Everything that had enthralled her as a child might as well have been monochromatic now. What she had originally imagined to be an enchanted everglade, home to a variety of sea creatures, was but a man-made pond, stocked with common trout. The magical forest that she had secretly desired to get lost in every night was now a grove of perfectly manicured trees, planted so as to not upset the symmetry of the garden's sophisticated design. This opulent mansion, the castle playground that she had shared with Sora, was now little more than a brick building, whose massive size taunted her with the emptiness of her home now that he was no longer here.

Everything that her class seemed to value and criticize, ridiculous details and superficial customs, all suddenly felt meaningless. She had always felt out of place among its people—the refined women who used to comment with authority on everything from the color of her hair to the eccentricities of her behavior. Thankfully, Sora was always there to tell her how special she was regardless, as simply Orihime. To him, her smile was worth more than anything his money could buy.

What could she do then when she showed up to his funeral and was told that there was no room for her to speak during his eulogy? She had listened long and hard for someone to bring up Sora's sense of humor, his silly forgetfulness, or his secret ability to sound just like a wizard when he had entertained her as a child. She watched as politicians and businessmen brought up his numerous endorsements, investments, and contributions to the city. While they spoke of his alertness, ambition, and decision-making skills, it wasn't until Sosuke Aizen said some words that she heard anything meaningful. It meant the world to her to hear him speak about Sora's commitment to his family and how his success was best measured by how much time he set apart for them. Everyone else, however, only seemed to appreciate him according to how much he had shared his pocketbook.

All of the condolences she received afterward seemed empty and insincere, as if though they were acting out of mandatory charity. She didn't blame them for extending their pity, but why did she feel so helpless in their company? How could she possibly tolerate standing out amongst this crowd if there wasn't someone to tell her that it was all right? She was frightened and lonely. More than anything else, she yearned to be embraced by the protective arms of her brother.

Clack. Clack.

She heard the clatter of her cousin's heels approaching.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, hun." Rangiku apologized and sat down. "I just got off the phone with the dressmaker and she says your gown will be delivered this evening!" She had expected to see a beaming Orihime jump up and down with excitement but witnessed a forced smile accessorized by teary eyes instead.

"Oh Hime, maybe it was a bad idea to move up the wedding date," She sadly voiced. "We should call if off." Rangiku was about to get up and leave but was stopped by Orihime after she launched herself across the table.

"No! Please don't call it off," she cried. "You've all worked so hard to get everything ready and I couldn't let it all go to waste now!"

"Relax, you silly girl!" The blonde exclaimed as she tried to free herself from Orihime's grip. "I only meant to postpone it. There's no need for you to get married tomorrow if you're not feeling well yet."

"But, Rangiku," she murmured softly. "I don't think there's any point in waiting a couple of days for me to feel better. I know you've all been worried about me, and want me to be happy again… I'm sorry if I'm letting you all down." Orihime shielded the gathering tears by allowing her head to drop, causing her auburn bangs to fall over her face. She felt a painful knot materializing at the back of her throat, making it impossible for her to say what she was truly feeling. Couldn't they all understand that a part of her had been lost forever? If she were a different person… someone braver… then perhaps she could smile for them like they wanted her to.

Rangiku lifted the girl's chin and pulled a white handkerchief from the collar of her blouse. "You really are a silly girl," she said teasingly as she wiped away the droplets on her cheeks, "when will you learn to smile for yourself?"

Orihime's lips trembled as Rangiku nodded her head, encouraging her to let go. The young girl could feel the aching in her throat slowly dissolving.

"Oh… Rangiku!" Orihime tumbled into the woman's generous bosom and wept freely. Rangiku embraced her in a maternal fashion and stroked her head as if she were a small child. She held the younger girl in her arms for a couple minutes until her sobbing quieted down.

"There, there, Orihime," she said consolingly, "you don't have to be strong if you don't want to. Taking time to tend to our wounds is all part of being human, and so is asking the people you love for help."

"—but I wanted to be strong." Orihime whimpered. "I need to be strong for my friends, so that they don't feel like they need to protect me… the way brother would've wanted… I want to be someone he can be proud of!" She yelped avidly.

"He IS proud of you, Hime," Rangiku stated firmly, taking a fierce hold of Orihime's shoulders. "We all are. You're kind, generous, and full of light. Everyone wants you to be happy because you deserve it… Me… Tatsuki…Uryuu… and don't forget Ulquiorra, too!"

Ulquiorra, she silently uttered. She pulled away from Rangiku's comforting chest and tried to remember those long forgotten feelings of anticipation. Before her world had come crashing down, she had been the luckiest girl in the world, hadn't she? She was in love with a great man, and his words had made her feel wanted. Her life-long dreams of marrying the man she loved were about to come true, and now that the day was closer than ever… she doubted in its authenticity.

"Forgive me if I've troubled you," she murmured as she regained her seat at the table. "The truth is, I am glad the wedding is tomorrow, but—. "

"—is it because Ulquiorra hasn't come to visit?" Rangiku asked quietly, her powder blue eyes displaying a sign of disapproval.

"I know he's been busy with his own preparations," Orihime said timidly, fidgeting with her hands in her lap, "but I haven't seen him since the funeral and it makes me think that…"

"Don't be unreasonable, Orihime!" She quickly shot back. "Of course he still wants to marry you!"

"Ever since that night… even during the funeral… it's like he refuses to look at me."

"Oh, he's probably trying to give you some space what with everything that's happened," Rangiku said dismissingly. "Why do you think he's been sending flowers like crazy? Men like that wouldn't know what to do with themselves at times like these."

It's true, Orihime thought, flowers have been arriving every day. It's understandable for him to feel uncomfortable around me. Still, couldn't he have attached a single note? Or have sent me a single message bearing his wishes?

"But Rangiku… I just don't think—"

"Begging your pardon, Miss Rangiku, but Mr. Schiffer is here to see the young Miss." The family's butler had suddenly appeared, pulling open the opaque glass doors to reveal a very fatigued Ulquiorra.

"I'm sorry for coming unannounced," he said briskly, "but may I have a word with Miss Orihime… in private?" He eyed Rangiku seriously and the older woman nodded understandingly. Orihime watched her cousin fulfill his request with confusion.

"Rangiku! Isn't it improper for us to be completely alone together before the ceremony?" Orihime inquired, praying her cousin would read into her pleading look.

"Nonsense," Ulquiorra replied, "we were alone together during the engagement party."

"Yes, Orihime, don't be absurd!" Rangiku whined while getting up from her seat. "I'll be inside if you two need anything!"

Orihime painfully observed as her cousin gave her a playful wink and strolled out, shutting the glass doors behind her. Ulquiorra took a seat in front of her, expressing some discomfort of his own, but unaware of her fretful fidgeting. She didn't feel any different from a school child who had been caught saying a bad word by her most beloved teacher. She nearly jumped when he started speaking.

"You've been disheartened by my absence, haven't you? It wasn't my original intention to distance myself from you these past few months."

Orihime gaped with incredulity at his frankness and frightening accuracy. Surely, he couldn't have overheard their conversation. It was almost as if though he had read her mind. Somehow she wouldn't have found it hard to believe him possessing supernatural abilities. Although… he was certainly stunning enough to be an angel of some sort… but perhaps instead of feathered wings, they'd be composed of something darker, like those of a bat's… oh, and horns!

Sensing that she was on the verge of another one of her daydreams, Ulquiorra tiredly pressed on.

"Orihime, I'm here to tell you I haven't been well."

The troubling news ruptured Orihime's imaginative bubble, and she reached forward to grasp his hand. She even naively pressed her hand against his forehead, presumably searching for a sign of a fever.

"Oh, then you must see a doctor! Ulquiorra, if you are feeling ill, then perhaps we should postpone the ceremony until you've recovered."

"Don't be ridiculous." He snapped, removing her hand abruptly from his forehead. She was forced into a standstill as he roughly seized both of her hands.

"I'm going to marry you, Orihime, and there's nothing on this bitter earth that can change that."

Her dazzling, gray eyes widened in shock, as she expelled a small noise of surprise. Deep inside, she felt her heart revitalized, as the final wall of skepticism was breached. Like a bashful child, she subconsciously formed her lips into a small smile and dipped her head to stare at their joined hands.

Did my words really mean so much to you, woman?

Ulquiorra looked on, with narrowed eyes, and fought against the enchantment of her loveliness, currently enhanced by the newfound hope that filled her gray orbs to the brim. Even on a sunless, dreary day, she still managed to be the most beautiful creature he'd ever seen. The gentle wind tugged at her freed, russet-colored locks and the sweet scent of her aroma hit him like an ocean wave… What the devil was wrong with him?

He forced himself to look away, and focused instead on the soft, warm hands within his grasp. She watched him peculiarly as he slowly brought her left hand to his lips, providing it with a gentle kiss. Ignoring her fervent blushing, he proceeded to play freely with the ring that resided on her finger. He silently wondered where such pointless customs came from. How could something so small, cold, and unfeeling come to symbolize the love that this stupid woman so ardently worships?

Something like this couldn't possibly convey the terms of the new disease that had infected his body ever since this woman handed him a piece of her heart. It's as if he wasn't himself anymore…

What are you even doing here? He asked himself angrily. He hadn't been able to get one good night of sleep since he gave her this ring, but the clarity he sought still eluded him. He was wrong to think that she'd be able to help. No… her presence only exacerbated his condition—an unmistakable feeling of lament.

What good did it do him now?

Uryuu examined his pocket watch one more time, hoping that someone in the vast mansion had heard his knocking on the heavy oak doors. It was getting late, and he still had one more stop to make today. Upon hearing slight footsteps on the other side, he quickly adjusted his spectacles, just in time to see Tatsuki appear through the door.

"Uryuu!" She exclaimed happily, "What brings you here? I didn't think we'd see you until tomorrow."

"I came by to talk some business with Orihime." He explained as Tatsuki stepped aside to allow him into the main hall.

"Is this really necessary?" She responded grumpily. Something told her that Orihime wouldn't be up to discussing tedious office matters today. Understanding her concern, Uryuu pointed to the black leather briefcase he brought with him.

"I have Sora's will."

"She's in the patio."

Tatsuki reluctantly accompanied Uryuu through the quiet hallways that had been devoid of laughter for the past three months. Despite her and Rangiku's best efforts, they had not been able to cheer Orihime up or get her involved in much of the wedding preparations. She wasn't sure how she'd take the subject of today's visit.

"Pardon the stupid question, but how is she?"

"Not well. I keep hoping that she'll open up about it to someone but she just smiles when we ask her."

"Perhaps, it's her way of coping."

Tatsuki suddenly stopped. She thought back to the days when they were both little girls and she could protect her friend from anyone who made her cry. It used to be as easy as baring her fists. How could she help her now if the enemy was Sora's memory?

"Coping isn't good enough for me," she sighed resignedly, "I want her to be okay again."

Uryuu placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, which she returned with a wry smile. They had just entered one of the sun rooms leading into the patio when they spotted someone's wriggling rear end peeking out from underneath a tangled train of curtains by the window.

"Rangiku, what on earth are you doing!" Tatsuki shouted as the buxom blonde jumped at the sound and hastily attempted to release herself from the fabric's many folds.

"Tatsuki! Don't frighten me like that… I almost popped out of my corset!" Tatsuki rolled her eyes while Uryuu nervously coughed.

"I was just checking to see if Orihime and Ulquiorra needed anything, but I seem to have lost my eavesdropping glass." She chuckled sheepishly. "Would you two mind helping me out of this velvet monstrosity?"

Tatsuki groaned disapprovingly and bent down to untangle her from the twisted curtains. As Uryuu helped her up, Tatsuki lectured her irately.

"You know, for someone who's supposed to be the head of the house now, you sure do act immature!"

"What? I was acting out of consideration for my adorable cousin! She could need my direction at any moment!"

"Direction? HA! I'd hate to think what kind of a role model you'd be!"

"Oh Tatsuki! Why must you always be so overly critical of me? After all these years… having to raise you all on my own…"

"Give me a break. I practically raised myself."

"Orihime… Sorry to interrupt, but could you give me a moment of your time?"

Tatsuki and Rangiku halted their habitual banter. They had been so caught up in their squabble that they hadn't realized that Uryuu had already left them. They quickly shuffled on after him.

Out in the patio, Orihime shyly turned her gaze from the newcomer to Ulquiorra, who had quickly stood up in greeting.

"Please don't leave on my account, Ulquiorra," Uryuu clarified, "I've been meaning to talk to you as well."

"Perhaps some other time."

Before Uryuu could contest, Ulquiorra bowed to everyone present and hurriedly walked out. Rangiku watched him leave with a strange look, wondering what type of interchange had just taken place. Meanwhile, Orihime smiled happily and gestured for Uryuu to take the now empty seat.

"What can I do for you, Uryuu?"

"I have Sora's will," he said deftly, raising his briefcase. "I can leave it here for you if you don't want to talk about it now."

"No, Uryuu," she firmly replied, giving Rangiku a positive wink. "I'd like to know what Sora's last orders for me were."

"All right."

He smiled kindly and snapped open the leather briefcase, removing several white sheets of paper from one of its compartments. Tatsuki and Rangiku came to stand behind Orihime as Uryuu began to read out loud Sora's written words, detailing the extent of Orihime's inheritance. It wasn't surprising to hear that he had left her practically everything. Upon hearing the long list of properties, stocks, and funds under her care, Orihime wondered how she would ever manage everything. She really hadn't given much thought to these things until now. She knew little about the business world, aside from small things Sora had mentioned every now and then.

What frightened her most was that in addition to leaving her the estate in New York, he also left her the family's ranch out west. The Shun Shun Rikka Ranch had been in the family for generations and was responsible for most of the wealth comprising the Inoue fortune. Although it was now known as one of the most prosperous livestock-raising operations in the west, she remembered how Sora used to tell her stories of how her grandfather had started the project with just a single barn, slowly outworked his competition, eventually culminating in the creation of a formidable empire. Sora himself had trouble overseeing it while on the east coast, making it one of the main reasons he had to travel so much. How could she be expected to administer to its needs personally? Though Sora made several trips a year, she hadn't been there since she was a little girl. She had preferred it this way since the house was stocked with many memories of their parents and their crumbling marriage. Needless to say, she could also expect to find many memories of Sora there as well.

Though she'd try her best to stay involved, she'd rather Uryuu and Mr. Aizen continue handling everything. Maybe after they married, Ulquiorra could assume ownership over it all and take it out of her hands. Still, she wondered, this ranch always took so much of Sora's time…

"Uryuu, if it's all right, I want you to keep taking care of Sora's possessions, like you've always done... until I can figure out how to manage everything myself."

Uryuu nodded in approval and began to put away his paperwork.

"As for the ranch, I want you to sell it."

"Orihime!" Tatsuki cried out, "Sora adored that ranch. You two practically grew up there!"

"That's right." Uryuu counseled, "The reason Sora tended to it so carefully was because he wanted to share it with his family one day."

"But when will Ulquiorra and I ever have a need to go west as far as—"

"Hold on to it, Hime," Rangiku warned, "this is a decision you should wait to make with your husband."

Orihime remained uneasy about the matter but ultimately surrendered to the joint recommendation of her friends.

"Fine then." She said with an amused sigh. "I'll leave everything in your hands until then, Uryuu."

The dark-haired youth nodded enthusiastically and stood up to leave.

"Uryuu, dear, will you be joining us for supper?" Rangiku asked warmly.

"Sadly not, Rangiku, I have other matters I must attend to before the day is out. I do look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow though."

He quickly collected his things and all three women escorted him to the front door. He bid them a good evening with a bow, and then quickly departed. Now, in a much more pleasant mood than she had been in days, Orihime joyfully inquired about the status of the wedding preparations and of her dress, prompting Rangiku and Tatsuki to excitedly drag her away into the house.

The night sky had yet to dispel the day's cloudy visage, which effectively stifled the mystical glow of the amber-colored summer moon. Though the imperious wind was firm in its resolution to dominate every object in its realm, it found itself unable to penetrate the thick stone walls of the illustrious Aizen estate. Beyond its walls and the underlying barricade of imposing tall pines, remained a formidable looking chateau, reminiscent of a war fortress.

Within the frame of one of its lighted lofty windows, was the distinguishable stationary silhouette of a man, seemingly unperturbed by the glimmering activity behind him. While Sosuke Aizen and his horde of subordinates indulged themselves with the endless flow of wine and the brash clamor of billiards balls, Ulquiorra stood meditatively to the side, his hands buried within the pockets of his coat. He tuned out the raucous laughter, hoping to numb the internal throbbing caused by his jarring thoughts.

I've gone and used that ridiculous word again… hope.

"How long ya gonna stand there?" Gin giddily inquired after he stealthily crept up to his side. Ulquiorra dismissed the smirking man completely.

"Hmm. Not doin' so well, ain'tcha? Yer lookin' a lot more dreary than normal."

"It's all in your head."

"…Or maybe it's what's in your head." Gin said with an uncharacteristically serious tone, causing Ulquiorra to face him with slightly widened eyes.

Is it possible he's noticed this much?

"Oh my… You're not gettin' cold feet are ya?" he teased while shaking his finger disappointingly. "An' she was such a pretty little fiancée too." Ulquiorra groaned angrily at his associate, frustrated but undeniably relieved.

"Let him be, Gin." Aizen scolded lightheartedly. "I'm sure he has a lot on his mind right now." Gin smiled even wider and meandered over to the laughing group of men by the hefty pool table. Aizen, however, walked over to his melancholy ward and joined him in staring at the night sky.

"Do try to look a little bit less miserable, Ulquiorra." He murmured with a dark chuckle. "You've played your part well and I'm sure Miss Inoue will make for a very satisfying wife, indeed."

Ulquiorra's prominent jade eyes shifted to look at the imposing man to his left. It was so easy for Sosuke Aizen to toy with the lives of others, including his. He dare not protest as it was better to be considered useful by Aizen than to be thought expendable. He, like every other man in the room, willingly offered his life and power in the service of this man without complaint or compensation. Whenever they looked to their leader, his commanding eyes held no fear, and that bold display of effortless supremacy kept them in submissive awe. He was their king.

Suddenly, the door to the drawing room opened, disrupting the party's unruly ambience. Uryuu Ishida wearily eyed the suspicious members of Aizen's social gathering and nodded politely on making eye contact with the host.

"This certainly is a surprise, Uryuu! What brings you to my humble abode this evening?"Aizen strutted forward with an arrogant air. "Please join us for some celebratory drinks." His offer was derailed by Uryuu's immediate headshake.

"Uh no, Sosuke. I came because I've finalized the details of Sora's will."

"My boy… I find it hard to believe that Sora left me anything, unless it was solely intended for the benefit of Miss Inoue. Sora told me himself that he had designated her as the exclusive beneficiary of his fortune when he first demanded the drafting of the will."

"As you say, Miss Inoue remains the sole beneficiary, but I thought that you and your ward should be informed of a particular clause concerning her inheritance." At this, Ulquiorra turned his head to face the two men while Aizen lazily signaled for Uryuu to continue.

"The clause's purpose is the permanent protection of Miss Inoue's interests and states that in the event that she takes a husband, both parties' assets must remain separate. If there is no premarital agreement guaranteeing her financial sovereignty, Miss Inoue will be barred access to her funds and, consequently, inherits nothing."

"This must be some sort of joke!" Aizen protested irritably. "I've never heard of such a thing! Did Sora really think that Ulquiorra's interest in Orihime was purely advantageous? Clearly, his sense of humor had deteriorated—"

"—Mr. Ishida." Ulquiorra interjected. "Does Miss Inoue know about this… clause?"

"No, she doesn't. It wasn't something meant to be kept secret, but if this new development has in some way caused you to change your—"

"—Of course not."

"Very well, then. I'm sorry to have disturbed your celebration. Good evening." With one final curt bow, he left them. All witnesses to the interchange immediately looked to the unwavering figure of Sosuke Aizen, who quickly expunged the decadent scowl from his handsome face.

"I should have known." He growled menacingly, "Sora wasn't as big of a fool as I thought."

"Aww… Does this mean the wedding's off?" Gin whined with false disappointment.

"No, the wedding will go on as planned." Aizen affirmed forcefully, while turning to face his silent ward. "Ulquiorra, you will marry the girl and make her completely obedient to your demands. Manipulate her… threaten her… torture her into submission if you have to… I could care less. Once I figure out a way to destroy this bothersome clause… Sora's last pathetic attempt against me… I will destroy the Inoue line."

Ulquiorra observed Aizen's cruel smile expressionlessly, as if though completely unabashed by the virulent drops of malice in his master's voice. He remained silent and turned away to stare through the transparent panes of delicate glass, his jade eyes fixed on the now visible moon, looming alone in a sky void of stars.

His mind plummeted once again into its earlier complicated conduits, desiring to answer the questions that had been put on hold to Ishida's interruption, just now, and earlier that afternoon…

What good does it do me now?

After thoughtlessly inspecting the fine detailing of his fiancée's engagement ring for a couple more seconds, Ulquiorra looked up to face her, instigating more fervent blushing from her part. He opened his mouth to speak, but hesitated, as if though the words he sought savagely resisted expulsion from his very lips.

"Orihime, you trusted your brother with your life, am I right?"

Taken aback by the question, Orihime looked at him curiously, but then slowly nodded.

"Do you still trust your family… the people you love now?" He could tell that her curiosity was steadily fading into troublesome concern.

"Yes, I do."

"Then can you trust in me?"

Orihime was understandably startled by such a request, not because it was unreasonable, but because it possessed a passion that she had yet to see from her melancholy fiancée. She smiled genially in response, conveying her belief to his anxious jade eyes.

"Orihime," he uttered with delicate tenderness, "I promise to protect you."

Before she could say a word, he leaned in fluently for a gentle, though resolute, kiss that neither she nor he was capable of preventing. During this flash of thoughtless impulse, he felt himself melting away into nothingness, succumbing to the softness of her warmth. For the first time in several months, he had finally experienced a momentary taste of soothing relief.

Still, as with the union of their lips, it went as swiftly as it came.

He sighed heavily and contemplated his next move. As uncertain as the situation was, there were still a few things that remained as true and assured as ever. The chains clasped around his liberty tightly bound him to the laws of his world and his punishment, should he fail to serve his master. To think that glaring sentiment alone was enough to overcome the raw spite of reality was childish and something he wasn't willing to wager his existence on. However, what could he do now that his existence was forever entwined with the happiness of that woman? He couldn't find it in himself to struggle against it anymore. Months of torment have finally brought him to this point—to the regrettable realization that he cared for Orihime Inoue.

Despite how much it agonized him to accept the pain of sacrifice, a cold compromise was necessary, even if it meant suffocating this newfound light within him.

Orihime felt as though she was about to burst with delight as Rangiku adjusted the floral tiara on her head, allowing the headpiece's delicate veil to fall gracefully in front of her gleaming face. As she glanced at her reflection in the tall gilded mirror of her room, she barely recognized herself. Her long auburn locks had been swept into an elaborate, elegant bun, exposing the natural radiance of her striking facial features. The gown's embroidered bodice and waistline accentuated her womanly figure while the long translucent laced-trimmed sleeves hugged her fine, slender arms. All around her, the long trains of white, satin fabric glowed effervescently under the rays of the morning daylight. The jeweled embellishments along her gown's hem glittered like powdered diamonds.

"Hime," Rangiku lauded tearfully, "you look like an angel!"

Orihime giggled excitedly as she twirled in front of her two lilac-garbed bridesmaids, giving herself a couple more moments to fully appraise her magnificent appearance. While Rangiku messily wiped away her tears, Tatsuki retrieved the young bride's fragrant bouquet, generously arranged with white orchids and roses. Once it was handed to her, she leapt to embrace them both, droplets threatening to spill from her silvery gray eyes.

"You know, it's still not too late to take Uryuu up on his offer," Rangiku confided gently. "I'll even do it myself if you'd like. To hell with tradition!"

Orihime smiled graciously but shook her head. Months ago, Uryuu had offered to walk with her down the aisle, convinced that someone should still undertake Sora's duty now that he was no longer here. Although she cared for him dearly and understood his intentions, she couldn't bring herself to accept. Since she was a little girl, she couldn't imagine anyone other than her brother walking at her side and giving her away. And even though she knew very well that Rangiku had no qualms with defying tradition, she'd rather her cousin cheer her on from the altar, and allow her to make this special journey on her own. Sora would've wanted to see her stand on her own two feet and this was the perfect time to prove it to her family.

"How could I possibly ask more of you? Rangiku… Tatsuki… Thank you! Everything was perfect!"

"Just wait," Tatsuki chuckled, "you haven't even seen the cathedral yet."

"Speaking of which, we should be leaving soon." Rangiku busily reminded them. "I'll go check to see if the carriage is here." She bustled out of the room, leaving the two girls alone.

"Come on," Tatsuki urged, "we should probably get going too."

"Wait, Tatsuki," Orihime shyly pleaded, "I wanted to tell you something, just in case everything gets too hectic later today." Tatsuki, slightly surprised, nodded and granted her nervous, fidgety friend her full attention.

"I can't help but think that everything is going to be… different now. That my whole world is about to be turned inside out but in the good way. I-I'm so happy… and grateful… to be marrying Ulquiorra. After everything that's happened, he's really made me believe that every cold, dark night has its dawn. Even though I'm completely scared to death right now… because of him… I just know it'll be all right."

"You don't know how glad I am to hear that," Tatsuki whispered.

"Mhmm," Orihime beamed, while clasping onto her friend's hands, "but I also know, that no matter how much everything is sure to change, you'll still be my friend—my Tatsuki."

"O—Orihime…" She mumbled softly.

"I'd feel silly asking you not to change," Orihime laughed embarrassedly. "So I'll just thank you in advance!"

"Oh Hime!" Tatsuki pulled her giggling friend into a new loving embrace.

Seconds later, they heard what seemed to be Rangiku's resonant calls from outside. Like small children, the two girls squealed with anticipation and ran out of the room, through the mansion's long hallways until they clamored down the main staircase. Orihime bid farewell to all of the startled servants as Tatsuki yanked her out past the front doors. Rangiku anxiously waved for them to come over. She stood in front of a marvelous, ivory carriage, completely covered with floral chains of white blooms. The entire scene looked as though it belonged in the pages of a fairy tale. Orihime's mouth was still agape when the kind chauffeur extended his helping hand. She took it enthusiastically and climbed happily aboard one of the luxurious seats. Once her cousin and friend joined her, the alabaster stallions at the front began their magical trot. Now, she thought, take me to my prince.

"Ulquiorra! They're all sayin' the bride just got here. Ain'tcha gonna try to sneak a peek?" Gin asked amusingly. He, along with Aizen and Tousen, were keeping the young man company while he waited to be called out of the groom's quarters.

"No." He responded sourly, as he finished tying the black bow on his stylish, white suit. Once again, another one of society's stupid customs was proving to be bothersome. Determined to see this ploy through to the very end, his associates were having some last celebratory drinks in his room, under the façade of committed groomsmen, effectively ruining any likelihood of much needed tranquility.

"This stuff ain't cheap. Ya really went all out on this shindig." The smirking man remarked as he examined the bottle of champagne before pouring himself another glass.

"One of Sosuke Aizen's wards is about to marry Sora Inoue's only sister." Tousen uttered matter-of-factly. "Obviously, no expense could be spared. Everyone else expects it." Gin's mouth formed a small "o" in surprise but he conceded after surveying his surroundings. The modest sized room they were in was cluttered with white lilies and roses, while ribbons and bows hung from the ceiling. Outside, the cathedral was even more impressively decked out, with flowers and silk fabrics streaming along the aisles. With a full orchestra providing background music to their snobby conversations, the supercilious guests would certainly be satisfied if not astounded.

"I suppose it's time we make an appearance then." Aizen passively ordered after checking his pocket watch. "Let's give them a show they won't ever forget." As if perfectly timed, the humming sounds of violins pierced the room's walls, beckoning all wedding players to take their place.

"No kiddin'." Gin heaved a sigh in disbelief.

"Well, it's not every day that one of my charges takes a wife." Aizen chuckled maliciously. "Though I'm sorry to say, this will probably put some unwanted pressure on you, Gin. I can personally attest to the unforeseen annoyances of prolonged bachelorhood." He laughed cruelly before exiting, with Tousen following close behind.

"We all know there's no use in tryin' to please that crowd." Gin shrugged his shoulders playfully and left shortly after, permitting the groom to exhale with relief at his newly regained solitude.

He couldn't have afforded to show even the slightest trace of hesitation while those three were present, especially while he was present. No, if Sosuke Aizen had even the remotest idea of what thoughts pervaded Ulquiorra's mind at this moment, his existence would be forfeit. Desperately clinging onto the remaining clarity that he had left, he remembered the decision he reached last night.

Strolling across the room, he scooped up a fragile, white rose, and sat down at the nearby vanity cabinet and mirror. He gently rubbed his thumb over the soft, velvety petals. It hit him with the same sensation from that night three months ago—when he first submitted to his corporeal weakness. It was as if her delicate, creamy skin was in his possession right now, and just like then, her purity threatened to burn right through him.

Even in the dark, I could see that you were a precious flower.

Ulquiorra placed the rose on the tabletop and stood, momentarily glancing at his own reflection in the mirror.

To watch you wither away in this cruel world…

Shoving his hands in his pockets, he stared into jade pools identical to his own.

… is something my heart just won't allow.

He then turned to leave, the tails of his suit swishing liberally in his tracks. The melancholy, young man headed towards the increasingly intense cries of the violins, but not before the shutting the hollow, wooden door behind him.

Orihime Inoue stood alone outside the cathedral's entrance, steadily being consumed by her nuptial nerves. Her overwrought heart was skipping beat after beat, while her shaky legs threatened to fail her. The horrible debilitating sense of anticipation had her leaning on the open door for support, still hidden from the hungry glances of the crowd. Though the orchestra's music had somewhat quieted down the banal chatter of the guests, it took all her strength to prevent her ostentatious bouquet from slipping away.

Just moments ago, she had assertively sent away her bridesmaids, allowing them to take their respective places with peace of mind. Even though she secretly wanted nothing more than for someone to hold onto her hand right now, this was the way it had to be—what she needed. They had unknowingly allowed her to fend for herself these last few months and she ended up being eaten away by her fears from the inside. No matter how much despair ravaged her heart on that fateful night, she had to find the courage to live on. Whatever pain she felt, she couldn't bring it into her marriage, not when it was meant to be the beginning of a new, much happier, time. Ulquiorra was counting on her to believe in him and everything he could offer her. Just like she had believed in her brother…

A touch of electricity shocked her body when she felt someone's firm hand suddenly rest on her cheek. She immediately fell into the spell cast by a pair of smoldering brown eyes, belonging to the handsome best man.

"A princess must never be seen with her head lowered."

Orihime held her breath as he ran his fingers down to the end of her chin and pulled it upwards, her face now dangerously close to his own.

"Your subjects are waiting for you."

He slowly retracted his rousing touch and smiled at her, before confidently striding through the entrance. She heard faintly how his appearance stirred up another wave of conversational buzz, and Orihime tried to calmly regain control of her senses.

That man still managed to mystify her with his commanding presence. It seemed unfair how a single mortal man could hold so much power over the wills of others. And yet, she couldn't help but naively admire him for his resonance… and unexpected kindness. His words had taken her back to the endearing moments when Sora had referred to her as his princess… his Hime.

This is it. My moment of truth.

The prelude piece was about to conclude and in a couple of seconds, she would hear a series of fanfare initiating the bride's processional. She was going to be the woman she'd always wanted to be. While she apprehensively imagined the numbers of faces that were eagerly waiting for her beyond the doorway, she couldn't allow her fear of these people to stand in her way now. Her happy ending was just a walking distance away.

Sora, give me strength.

Upon perceiving the dying whimpers of the violins, she defiantly shut her eyes and held her breath once more.

She waited…

Silence.

… for several minutes…

Silence.

… but the triumphant clamoring of trumpets never came.

Yes, of all places, I chose to cut it off here. I may change it later but hopefully this is better than making you guys wait longer for updates. I can already tell that next chapter will be a challenge because of all the stuff I'm trying to set up for later but hopefully you guys will bear with me on the characterization. Some of you may already be able to guess what's in store for our heroine. Oh, and for anyone who is wondering where our male protagonist is… he's on his way =).

R&R!