Five days had passed since the last events. Tsunade stood in front of the door of the Gotei 13 First Division barracks. Shizune was by her side, as usual, even though she was not in favor of what her Master intended to do. The door opened, and the two entered the place, being received by Captain-Commander Shunsui Kyouraku.
- Tsunade-sama, the illustrious ruler of Konoha Gakure in the Land of Fire. To what do I owe the honor of such an illustrious visit? - he asks calmly, already with a small glass of sake in his hands.
- Well, Kyoraku-sama, you know very well that the relationship between Ninjas and Shinigamis is extremely restricted, and that we can only meet in cases that are important to one of the sides.
- Exactly. But please, sit down. Will you join me for a drink?
- I accept, of course. - she says excitedly, and Shizune looks at her reluctantly.
- So please tell me the reason for your visit.
- It's like this: I came to inform you that the great ninja war in our village has happily ended, and with that, I have left my position as Hokage. - he explains this part at once, before getting straight to the point.
- But that's great news! We're happy to hear that. But is that what brought you here? - Kyoraku asks, looking at her curiously, as he imagined that there was still more to come.
- Well... actually, I'm here because I need your help with a very important matter. - he sighs, taking a long sip of sake, feeling the liquid burn his insides as he drinks - As you well know, the war is over, but an extremely dangerous Shinobi decided to start his life over in Karakura Town, and since this place is under the responsibility of the Shinigamis, I came to ask for your cooperation in monitoring this individual very closely.
- I think I understand, but who exactly are we talking about?
- This man was practically one of the causes of the war. Look at this. - He hands him a folder with Kabuto's summary file, and Shunsui's expression drops.
"Kabuto Yakushi: 22 years old. High-class Medical Ninja, whose skill even reaches the point of being able to revive the dead. High-level ANBU and S-class ninja, having been trained by the Root ANBU under the command of Danzou Shimura. Place of birth: unknown. Son of unknown parents. Formerly served the Root ANBU as a highly skilled spy, and later became Orochimaru's right-hand man as his spy and personal physician."
- Right... My question is: why is a Ninja with a record like this and who caused a war free out there?
- It's a long story... - he sighs in disgust - It was a determination of the current Hokage. He is claiming that this guy no longer poses a threat and let him start over somewhere else, but I was extremely against it.
- I see... So, what request do you want to make of me?
- I would like you to lend me one of your Shinigamis to help me watch over Kabuto Yakushi as a precaution. - he says bluntly, and the older man scratches his beard, processing what he just heard.
- Okay. Wait here. I'll be back in a few minutes.
In another room of the Division, Kyoraku meets with some of his Captains in order to discuss the request of the former Hokage. In the ranks were Rojuro, Shinji, Byakuya, Lisa and Hitsugaya. They all find it strange that there is such a difference of opinion between the current Hokage and the previous one, and come to an agreement to send two Shinigami to fulfill Tsunade's request. At the end of the meeting, Shinji notices Lisa handing Byakuya a small piece of paper very discreetly, but says nothing. After the time spent in this small meeting, Shunsui returns accompanied by the two Shinigami in question, to Tsunade's surprise.
- Well then, Tsunade-sama, your request for help has been accepted. I will assign these two high-ranking Shinigami to assist you. They are experienced Lieutenants and will be able to provide support. - He points to Izuru Kira and Rangiku Matsumoto.
The blonde raised an eyebrow when she saw the redhead's cleavage, and just by looking at her, she could already deduce that she was the forward and exhibitionist type. But her feelings softened when she looked at Izuru, because besides finding the blonde very handsome, she also had the impression that he was cute and somewhat shy.
- So, what do you want my boys to do for you? - the veteran asks smiling - After all, it's hard to believe that such a young man with such a delicate appearance is capable of all this and has these skills that even the most skilled Shinigamis don't even dream of having.
- Don't be fooled by appearances. We need to keep a close eye on Kabuto Yakushi. Preferably, get close to him to gain his trust, and thus find out if he intends to do anything wrong. And considering that he already knows us, I couldn't do it personally, understand? - he explains in the simplest terms possible.
- Okay. That makes perfect sense. So that's it. From now on, two of my dear Lieutenants will be under your command. You can act as you please for as long as you need.
- Thank you very much! Believe that you are helping to keep the world safe.
The veteran, along with Shizune and the Lieutenants, leave the place, and set off again for the World of the Living…
...:~X~:...
Shinji and Rose were walking through Sereitei after leaving the meeting, where each of them would head to their own base later. Rose suddenly stops walking when she notices a somewhat serious expression on Shinji's face and promptly questions him.
- Did something happen? You're worried about that high-level Ninja that the girl who was Hokage is chasing.
- Not exactly. I think the Lieutenants that Kyoraku decided to send will handle this well. Actually, I'm uneasy about Lisa. - he reveals, scratching his chin.
- But what do you mean? What's wrong with her? - he arches an eyebrow, intrigued by his old friend's observation.
- That Yadomaru… I'm sure she's in love with the well-groomed Kuchiki.
- WHAT?! - Otoribashi shouts in disbelief, receiving a slap from Hirako afterwards.
- Sssshhhhiiiii! Don't scream like that! Are you crazy?
- You do something like that and I'm the one who's crazy? - he complains as he massages his aching head - And why do you think that, after all?
- I saw the two of them secretly exchanging notes during the meeting. That is, to say the least, very suspicious.
- And just because of that you think the two of them are jumping around in the same bed? What a dirty mind you have. - he laughs heartily, and the blond frowns.
- What's the problem? I think our friend is too little for that old jerk? - he retorts annoyed.
- Not at all. Our friend is worth a lot. But we have to admit that Lisa is a rather… peculiar kind of woman, you know.
- I know... the "Noble" Kuchiki wouldn't go out with a frivolous woman like Yadomaru. - he makes air quotes with his fingers, being ironic - But I have a feeling we might have a surprise soon...
Shinji leaves his thoughts hanging in the air, and continues on his way to Division Five.
...:~X~:...
Some time later, in the main room of Division Eight, loud moans of pleasure could be heard. But only for the two involved, as the room was protected by a convenient barrier in order to prevent any intruders. Lisa had just enjoyed an overwhelming orgasm, and practically fainted on her partner's strong chest, where once again their exhausted bodies fused into one. The brunette captured Byakuya's lips with vigor, not giving the handsome man time to catch his breath.
- I came to see you at the time you wrote in the note. This all seems crazy. - he says with difficulty, when his thirsty female leaves his lips.
- But it's a very nice madness, you have to admit. - she answers provocatively, biting his lip - So, Bya, what did you think of this meeting?
- Unnecessary. These Ninjas should be able to solve their own problems, first of all. - he runs his hand over his face a little tiredly - This woman seems to be overreacting a lot in her concern about a guy that their own authorities let loose.
- You're right, dear. Let's forget this nonsense and focus on what matters.
Yadomaru takes Byakuya's lips with impetus and uncontrollable desire, riding him mercilessly, until all his strength is exhausted. They would have trouble finding the sheet to cover their naked bodies.
...:~X~:...
Kabuto was exhausted. After all those days of analyzing and analyzing the hollow's genetic material, the Medical Ninja finally reached the end of his research. He already had the necessary information from that side, now, he just needed to evaluate Uryuu's condition and compare it with his own result.
The platinum-haired man lay down on his bed, which, despite being a single bed, was a little bigger, but a little smaller than a conventional double bed. It could easily accommodate two people. Kabuto liked a good space to sleep. He took off his glasses and began to massage his temples and eyelids with his fingertips. As a doctor, he uses this technique very often when he needs to relax.
After staying like that for about five minutes, Yakushi felt the pressure of fatigue in his head ease considerably, so he stood up, heading towards the kitchen, where he quickly prepared some noodles, using simple seasonings for a pleasant-tasting broth. Kabuto always preferred to make his own food, and only resorted to instant ramen when it was strictly necessary.
Once he had finished preparing his meal, the young doctor went to the bathroom, and after relaxing under the hot water long enough for his food to be at a good enough temperature to be consumed and changing into his pajamas, he ate while watching the news on TV, and finally went to bed.
Looking at the ceiling of his room, the ex-ANBU found himself thinking about how he was going to help cure that stranger, who, by the way, showed no sympathy whatsoever for him, but that was the least of it. If there was one thing Kabuto had learned throughout his life, it was that a doctor should heal people, above all else, and no matter how many lives he had taken in the past, anything he could do to help save someone would be worth it. Maybe that way, he could try to redeem himself and make amends for his behavior by doing good, even if he was unable to heal his own heart.
The platinum-haired boy concluded that Kukkaku was the person who would make him have contact with the injured boy, and he was determined to return to her house the next day. What he didn't know was that several people were gathered at Karakura Hospital with extreme concern, as Uryuu was hospitalized in an induced coma, in a desperate attempt by his father to try to prolong his life as much as possible
At Ichigo's house, Kukkaku paced nervously, and was about to make a hole in the living room floor, she was so restless. She had been biting her nails with impatience ever since she found out that Uryū was in the hospital in serious condition. It wasn't that she was worried about young Ishida, not at all. Her real concern was for the aforementioned man's father. When her eyes gazed upon Ryūken's figure, she simply thought that she was in front of some kind of God of beauty, and if her drunken state could produce such a vision, she wouldn't even regret drinking again. Since then, the handsome and mysterious doctor had taken over her mind in such a way that the former noblewoman only felt that she needed to see him again and throw herself into his arms, until she could smell his irresistible perfume... feel in her hands every shape that made up Ishida's body. Such a remote thought made the woman's body boil like hot coals, as if she were actually making her thoughts come true. This was all Shiba had been dreaming about ever since.
Kukkaku knew that Ryuuken needed a lot of support at that moment, but she didn't know where to start, because the platinum-haired man probably had a bad impression of her because of their last meeting. She couldn't just show up at the hospital and offer her friendly shoulder (and full of ulterior motives) without further ado. Most likely, his bad impression would only get worse if she approached him so impulsively, causing the mysterious Quincy to take her like any other woman. That was the last thing Shiba wanted...
It was then that Kukkaku had the brilliant idea of thinking about Kabuto. Of course! The ultra-cool Medical Ninja would be the perfect person to help at that moment, and she wouldn't rest until she had dragged the young platinum-haired man to the hospital. She would also take the opportunity to learn everything she could about Ryuuken. It couldn't be more perfect. The brunette took off at a run, only forgetting the "small" detail that it was still dawn...
...:~X~:...
Kabuto was fast asleep when his apartment doorbell began to ring insistently. Exhausted, his black eyes found it difficult to open due to the weight on his eyelids. He was forced to get up when he was overcome by the annoying noise of the doorbell. Practically still asleep, the platinum-haired boy opens the door. Kukkaku enters like a hurricane and slams the door shut. Yakushi sees nothing but a figure passing by. Shiba looks at the sleepy boy and wants to laugh. The silver locks loose and spread across his face and torso, his eyes narrowed with nowhere to focus... He was so cute and funny that he almost awakened a brotherly tenderness in Shiba, who wanted to hug him.
- Kukkaku-san… what are you doing here in the middle of the night? - he asks in a whisper as he rubs his eyes.
- I need your help, doctor kitty. The brat Ishida is in serious condition at Karakura Hospital, and I'm sure you can help cure him. - he says at once, but Kabuto can barely process the information, as his consciousness is still asleep.
Hearing this, he just walks to the room, lies down on his bed and closes his eyes, pulling the sheet up to his chin.
- Hey! - she shouts, shaking the boy by the shoulders and pulling the blanket - Didn't you hear me? We need to go to the hospital fast! Wake up!
- Sorry, Kukkaku-san... I've spent the last few days working hard on analyzing a specific material and I'm exhausted. I won't function if I don't sleep at least eight hours, and since it's still early morning, I'll keep sleeping. - he hides his eyes with the sheet, discovering a gap afterwards - And you should do the same. - he smiles at her and shrinks back down.
Shiba hears Kabuto's words and snorts in defeat. The best thing she could do was follow the boy's advice and go back to sleep. Without any ceremony, the brunette opens the closet and grabs a blanket, going to throw herself on the couch until sleep overcomes her.
...:~X~:...
The atmosphere at Karakura Hospital was one of emotion. Ryuuken was devastated. Orihime cried desperately at Ishida's bedside, being comforted by Ichigo.
- Why, Kurosaki-kun? Why didn't Ishida-kun tell me anything? Why didn't he tell me that my powers hadn't worked and that he wasn't well? - he says, sobbing and crying.
- Don't be like that, Inoue. If Ishida didn't say anything, it's because he certainly didn't want to make you cry, like he's doing now.
- That's not fair…
Orihime hugs Ichigo, who does his best to keep the redhead calm. Meanwhile, Isshin tries to calm Ryuuken down in his friend's room.
- Damn it! Can't we do anything else? - he hits the table in anger, receiving a worried look from the brunette.
"I'm sorry, Ishida, but Ishida-kun's condition has deteriorated too quickly. We didn't even have time to suggest that he go to Soul Society to be evaluated by Divisions Four and Twelve when Inoue-chan found him passed out at home. We would need their diagnosis as soon as possible, but since Kuchiki-san hasn't returned with the request yet…"
- To hell with your damn bureaucracy, Shinigamis! - he raises his tone nervously - I just put my son in an induced coma. Do you know what it means for a father to be forced to do that? - he retorts angrily.
- I understand your desperation, brother, but you won't gain anything by losing control like this. I've requested their help, and I'm waiting for their contact.
- Okay, and in the meantime, what? We don't even know how long Uryū will still be able to resist. - runs his hand through his hair worriedly - I can't just wait for a solution to fall from the sky...
He had barely finished speaking when both he and Isshin were surprised when Kukkaku entered the room accompanied by Kabuto, and the Quincy looked directly into Yakushi's black eyes, being overcome by a strange feeling, a feeling that was difficult to explain. Something like... familiarity? He couldn't say. Ryuuken turned his gaze to Kukkaku, and although he didn't like her personality at all at first, he couldn't help but admit that she had very beautiful eyes.
- What are you doing here, Kukkaku? Why did you come in like that? Don't you understand the difficult time we're going through? Don't be irresponsible! - he reprimanded her, only to receive a middle finger in response, to which everyone preferred to ignore and hide their faces in shame. Ryuuken gave a small hint of a smile at her attitude, which did not go unnoticed by Kabuto's sharp eyes.
- Don't be annoying, dammit! You should thank me for coming. We're here to help that brat Ishida, cough cough, I mean, Ishida-kun. - she disguises it with a cynical smile as she looks directly into the doctor's blue eyes, melting inside, lost in the beauty of those two blue jewels that adorned the masculine face.
- Don't joke about it, Kukkaku. Besides, you've been too attached to this young man lately. Don't be depraved. He's still just a boy. - Kurosaki reprimands her, imagining something sordid between the two, coming from his niece, and Yakushi rolls his eyes in boredom as he crosses his arms, visibly uncomfortable and blushing.
- Your idiocy makes me lazy! - Kukkaku also blushes with shame for being denigrated in front of her crush - Don't talk about me as if I were just anyone, much less in the presence of your friend. What will he think of me if he keeps hearing these untruths? - Shiba complains, and his uncle just scratches his head.
- You yourself build your image in front of others, my niece. Don't forget that.
- Enough of this useless spiel! I'm telling you that I brought the person who will cure the young Quincy. - he reveals bluntly, pointing at Kabuto, making Ryuuken and Isshin assume an expression of astonishment - But what are these faces? It almost seems like I said something from another world. Are they making me crazy or what? - he retorts impatiently.
- It's not about that, Kukkaku, but this boy...
- My name is Kabuto Yakushi. And I'm not a boy, I'm a man, if you haven't noticed... and I'm also a doctor. - he says as calmly as possible, adjusting his glasses, which makes Ryuuken smile slightly, very satisfied with the firm answer and the tremendous slap on the wrist he gave his friend.
- Hahaha! There you go, Uncle Isshin! Well done! How ugly to judge people by their age or appearance! - Shiba scoffs with his hands on his hips - Well, you should know that Kabuto-sensei is a great doctor! I'm sure he'll be able to help.
- Okay. Sorry about this, but Ishida and I are also doctors, and yet, we weren't able to do anything for him.
- Can you help me examine the patient? I need all the information about the case and see how he is doing so I can do what is necessary.
The two agree, and follow the Medical Ninja to the room where Uryū lies unconscious. Ryūken shows him the location of the wound, which by this point, has consumed a good part of his upper arm, as if it had a will of its own.
Kabuto examined the cut pattern carefully, taking a sample of the blood and some of the skin material. He then read the medical record carefully.
- Could you take me to the hospital laboratory? I need to analyze this carefully. Ryuuken looks at him intrigued.
- To analyze?
- That's right. As soon as I know the source of the cause, I can work on the countermeasure.
- A-ah… okay. - the platinum haired man agrees, adjusting his glasses.
Ryuuken then takes Kabuto to the large laboratory of Karakura Hospital, giving him a white lab coat so he can work more comfortably. The ex-ANBU was quite impressed with the modern and incredibly large structure of the place, but he would leave it to think about it later, as he would analyze it, and would compare it with the Hollow's pattern that he himself analyzed beforehand.
...:~X~:...
A few hours later…
- Ishida, are you sure this boy can do something different from what we've already done?
- I don't know about that, Kurosaki. But I must say that he impressed me quite a bit.
- Seriously, brother? Why?
- He seemed very precise in what he did and quite confident in his abilities. Something like that coming from someone so young is incredible… and mysterious…
- That's very intriguing. I want to see what he'll do next. I'll be there when this stranger examines the Ishida boy again. Who could this guy my niece brought? - he reflects, scratching his chin for a few moments - Could it be possible that he's a Shinigami?
- I don't think so. - he replies categorically.
- How can you be so sure?
- Did you feel any Reiatsu on him?
- Hmm… not really, but…
- Let's let the boy work. In the meantime, we'd better eat something.
Kurosaki gladly accepts the rare invitation from his reserved friend, and heads to the restaurant floor accompanied by the hospital owner.
...:~X~:...
Kabuto analyzed the sample of blood and residue from Uryuu's wound. It didn't take long for him to compare it with the material he had taken from the Hollow, concluding that the composition was the same. The platinum-haired man didn't need to know beforehand that Hollows were poisonous to the Quincy to understand perfectly that Uryuu's life was being taken by a potent toxin, and he certainly already knew how to take the countermeasure. He also found it interesting that they both had the same blood type, but a transfusion wasn't, in fact, necessary. Furthermore, Kabuto himself had modified his blood with Orochimaru's organic material, and he couldn't donate it to someone else, anyway.
Using the two materials, he worked on making a vaccine to stop the toxin from spreading and eliminate its effects. The rest would be up to his own medical ninjutsu.
Ryuuken and Isshin were waiting for Kabuto to return to Ishida's room. They were still nervous, waiting for some progress. Yakushi entered with a syringe in his hands, ready to apply the antidote, attracting the curious looks of the elders. Soon, Orihime and Kukkaku also entered, as they wanted to witness the mysterious doctor's performance, despite Ryuuken and Isshin's protests.
- How was it? - Ryuuken asks him apprehensively.
- I can't say with all the details, but I believe we have a 90% chance of success.
- Is this serious? - Isshin's eyes shine at the hypothesis.
- Yes. After analyzing the cause, it was not difficult to make the antidote. If you will allow me, I will begin the procedure.
What he didn't know was that Kukkaku would mischievously record everything with his cell phone. Kabuto ingests a food pill to accelerate the replenishment of his Chakra, something that no one there understands, but he asks for no questions or interference. Then, he injects the antidote directly into the vein in Uryuu's arm, touching the muscles with his fingers, as if he were analyzing the inside.
- It's a fully human body, but it seems that there is a kind of conflict of energies here that a normal human shouldn't have. - he explains more to himself - The antidote I injected will cut this conflict, that way, the cells destroyed by the process can be rebuilt, and his arm restored.
- Cellular regeneration? But wait a minute, boy, that's humanly impossible. In that case, unfortunately that part of Ishida-kun's arm can't be recovered. - Isshin counters, and Ryuuken takes on a mournful expression, fearing that his son would be mutilated.
Yakushi limits himself to remaining silent, entering a state of deep concentration, gathering the Chakra from his body in his hands.
- In yushou metsu!
Having his eyes dyed gold, the Medical Ninja invokes his Yin Release Ninjutsu, and as soon as the antidote took effect, Ishida's muscles, skin and all the rest of the damage began to heal, a fact that left everyone there with their jaws dropped, especially Orihime, who thought she had succeeded, but seeing someone healing another person as skillfully as she did left her impressed.
Kabuto then used the Mystic Palm Technique on Ishida's forehead to free the Quincy from his coma. It didn't take long for his blue eyes to open. He was practically as good as new. Yakushi stepped back from Ishida's bedside, took off his glasses, and covered his eyes with his right hand. Kukkaku immediately ran to him, supporting him by the shoulders.
- Kabuto-sensei, are you okay?
- Yes. I'm just a little tired, as this jutsu requires a large amount of Chakra. - he answers calmly, and the brunette watches his eyes return to their usual color.
- Can someone explain what happened here? How did you do it? - Kurosaki asks dumbfounded.
Kukkaku looks at Kabuto, and he nods in agreement.
- I'll explain it bluntly, Uncle Isshin. It turns out that Kabuto-sensei isn't just a doctor… he's a Medical Ninja.
- Ninja… Doctor…? - Ryuuken and Isshin blink several times, speaking at the same time, as does Orihime, who is unable to contain her surprise - What exactly does that mean? - the platinum-haired man asks curiously.
- If you are a Shinigami, and you are a Quincy, I believe you should know about Shinobi for yourselves. - He looks at the two without much desire to give explanations about himself, since his mission there was already over. He just takes out another pill from the supply and ingests it, in order to recover his Chakra completely. - By the way, Kukkaku-san, I made this for you. - He hands her a small box, and the brunette looks at the object questioningly.
- That's it…?
- This is a medicine I made for hangover symptoms. It will be very useful to you from now on. In it, I have gathered several herbs and components that will alleviate your discomfort in a matter of minutes. - he says in his usual polite tone, making Shiba smile broadly and give him a tight hug.
- Waa! Thank you so much, Kabuto-sensei! You're the best! - she replies euphorically, admiring the metal box.
- I'm glad I could help. Can we go now?
- What? You're already going? - the former noblewoman asks in surprise.
- And why not? I've already finished what I came here to do, haven't I? - he takes off his lab coat, handing it to the platinum-haired Quincy, who looks at him intrigued - Besides, it's almost night, I'm tired and I still don't know the city very well. I don't know how to get back to my apartment.
- Wait. - Ishida bows emphatically before the young platinum haired man - Thank you very much! I owe my son's life to you, and I won't live long enough to thank you. - He is sincere in his words, and Kukkaku smiles as he observes every gesture and action of the beautiful man before him - Keep this. - He hands him the lab coat back, and Kabuto doesn't know how to react to the thanks.
- No need to thank me. You are also a doctor, and as such, you know that we do not charge or expect anything when we are on the noble mission of saving someone's life.
He is honest in his words, especially in the nobility part. Yakushi was willing to become a new man. That was the goal of his current journey. He deleted from his mind all his false personalities from his time as a spy thanks to Izanami, and now he would strive exclusively to use his abilities for good, and not to heal bad people or create armies to culminate bloody and senseless wars.
- You're right, but even so, I wanted to compensate you, even if just a little, for your help, and…
- Please don't offend me. - In a quick movement, he adjusts the circular-framed glasses in the center of his face - Money is not necessary.
- In that case… - he stands behind the youngest and places the lab coat over the boy's shoulders - I humbly ask that you work with me in this hospital.
- Work… here? - he doesn't hide the surprise on his face.
- But isn't that great news? - Kukkaku comments happily, squeezing Kabuto's shoulders in a sign of comfort - You really need to work, and what better place than here? - she says happily, because with Kabuto working there, she would have the perfect excuse to frequent the place and thus invest in the coveted Quincy - By the way, you look cute in that white coat. I must say that men in coats are incredibly sexy. - she makes the last comment looking at Ryuuken furtively, and he prefers to feign dementia and ignore the true intention behind those words.
The ex-ANBU looks into Kukkaku's eyes, and sees in his friend's orbs a lot of confidence, and the feeling that he was doing the right thing in accepting.
- Alright, then I accept, Ishida-sensei. - He extends his hand to him, which the platinum Quincy returns the greeting willingly, feeling the boy's Chakra for the first time, and realizes that it wouldn't be difficult to get used to.
- Thank you very much. I wish I could do more to thank you, but I am very happy that you accepted such a humble invitation. For now, you can work in the analysis and research laboratory that you are most familiar with, and then you can decide which area of the hospital you prefer to work in.
- Okay. And when do you want me to start?
- It could be tomorrow or next week. Take as much time as you need to organize yourself before you start.
- We're agreed then.
- Can someone explain to me what's going on here?
Uryuu's question draws everyone's attention to him, to which Orihime quickly goes to him, wrapping her hands in his, placing a sweet kiss on it.
- Ishida-kun. Thank God you're okay. I was so worried thinking that… - she doesn't finish her sentence, and kisses his forehead tenderly.
- What am I doing in this hospital? And why are you all around? - he asks, still in a daze.
- It turns out that the injury you made sure to hide from everyone got considerably worse, so Inoue-chan found you passed out at home and we brought you here. - Ichigo's father explains, and the brunette arches an eyebrow - By the way, we have a lot of "privileged humans" here. We have Inoue-chan, the two Quincies, we even have an incredible Medical Ninja... and Kukkaku. - he says his niece's name in a dejected tone, teasing the brunette.
- What do you mean? Are you calling me a rest, you big idiot?! - he shouts at him, but is frustrated when he doesn't get an answer.
- And what are Shiba-san and her new friend doing here too? - he continues with the interrogation, intrigued by the fact that his father thanked the young man and even offered him a job.
- Well, you should be grateful, since it was Kabuto-sensei who made you brand new with his incredible medical and healing skills. - Kukkaku says without much patience because he used the word "such" to define his friend.
- What about you, Ryuuken? You didn't have to go to all the trouble of taking care of me.
Hearing that string of words of pure disdain, Kabuto narrowed his gaze in annoyance. He didn't care about any possible ingratitude from a patient, but if there was one thing the Medical Ninja hated, it was disrespect and insubordination of any kind. Hearing Uryuu calling his father by name and speaking so harshly bothered him, just as he felt every time he heard one or another unsuspecting person addressing Orochimaru without adding the corresponding honorific.
- Your gratitude doesn't interest me at all, but you should at least treat your father with a minimum of respect. - he reprimands him, crossing his arms, just like he did with Sasuke some time ago.
- And who do you think you are to tell me what to do? - he cuts him off harshly, but the platinum-haired man is not affected - If I call you that, it's my business. You don't know anything about our family.
- I'm nobody. I'm just an orphan who grew up without a father or mother. Someone who didn't have father figures to show his respect, but fortunately, unlike you, I know how to treat everyone accordingly. - he explains in a few words, however, his tone is cold.
- Well, I'm curious about the word you would use to address a "father" like Ryuuken, so that you're "in agreement."
- Uryuu! - Ryuuken speaks under Kukkaku's sharp gaze - Shut up. Is your anger towards me so stupid that you would mistreat the person who just saved your life? This fills me with shame. - he says disappointedly, and without looking at his son, he leaves the room accompanied by Kurosaki.
Kabuto and Kukkaku also leave the place, and go towards the hospital restaurant, leaving the patient and Orihime alone. The redhead approached her beloved, and without warning, slapped the brunette in the face, which only didn't make his glasses fly off his face because he wasn't wearing them. Ishida just focuses his blue eyes full of astonishment on Inoue's figure.
- Inoue-san… why…? - the shock was evident in his expression, as he never imagined seeing the sweet girl adopt aggressive behavior towards him or his friends.
- That's what I'm asking. What happened to you, Ishida-kun? - she confronts him, distraught, so disappointed - Why did you do that? Why did you hide your health condition from me and your friends? Why didn't you trust us? Why?! - her suffering tears as she said that were painful for Uryuu, who looks down, feeling ashamed - Not only did you not trust me, but you also showed yourself to be ungrateful to your father and the Medical Ninja who healed you. I don't understand why you act like this.
- I just wanted... to keep you from suffering, worrying and crying because of me, like you're doing now. I wanted to spare you all this anguish.
- You had no right to decide alone! - she shouts, upset, causing even more astonishment in Ishida - Do you have any idea how we felt afterwards? The terrible days we lived? The suffocating feeling of helplessness and despair thinking that maybe you would never wake up again? How selfish!
Ishida stands up, because thanks to Kabuto's powers, he feels brand new. He goes to his beloved and wraps her in a warm and tender hug.
- Forgive me, Inoue-san. You have every right to think that my silence sounded like a lack of trust and consideration, but believe me, I was thinking more about you than about myself. I love you, and I didn't want to see you cry under any circumstances. - He strokes her red hair with extreme care - Understand that for me the anguish was too great. I just wanted to spare you and everyone else from that pain. - He finishes, placing a chaste kiss on the top of his beloved's head.
- May this be the first and last time you do something like this. - she answers tearfully - And try to apologize to your father and to the skilled Ninja who cured you.
- Ern… - he scratches his head awkwardly - Can we skip this part? - he replies cynically, and Orihime frowns - The mysterious guy must have already left, and as for my "daddy"... well, you know.
- Okay. - she sighs resignedly - It's up to you if you prefer to continue acting like this.
He smiles and thanks her for her understanding. After putting on his clothes, the Quincy heads home and Inoue does the same.
...:~X~:...
At the hospital cafeteria, Kabuto and Kukkaku were enjoying a well-served burger with fries and a soda. Shiba was shoveling several fries into her mouth at once, and Yakushi thought it was incredible how she ate like crazy.
- Don't pay attention to him. That brat Ishida is very ungrateful. Did you see how he treated his father and you too? Stupid brat... - he says with his mouth full, putting even more potatoes in his mouth, still talking with his mouth full - How different from his father, who was so kind to us.
- I appreciate you thinking that about me.
Ryuuken's imposing voice could be heard behind Kukkaku, as he and Isshin passed by the restaurant, and saw Kabuto and Kukkaku eating peacefully. The beautiful brunette almost has a heart attack, and begins to cough uncontrollably.
- Are you okay? - the platinum haired man asks, seeing Kukkaku cough.
- Yes! - she drinks some of the soda, in order to recover, because her face was red as a tomato after having been caught by him talking badly about her son - I hope you didn't hear anything I said about your stuck-up son. - she scratches her head, trying to fix the mistake, when she had just made another one.
- Don't worry about Uryuu's behavior. But I'm glad you're still here. I want to thank you again for your help. By the way, Shiba-san, I didn't thank you properly, and I apologize for that. You were the one who brought Kabuto-kun here, and I really appreciate that. Of course, I don't need to say that everything you can eat here will be on me. - He kisses her right hand elegantly, and Shiba's body immediately starts to burn, as if it were on embers, just with that minimal contact.
Kurosaki pulls the strip on the back of Ishida's lab coat, bringing him to a corner.
- Don't do such a crazy thing! - he whispers in the platinum haired man's ear, who tries to get out of the way - If you give Kukkaku any opening, no matter how small, she'll come after you until she can drag you to the nearest bed.
A look of pure shock appears on the Quincy's face, who was only trying to be kind, as it was the least he could do. The former Captain then notices the enraged face of his niece right behind him, and she had to hold back as much as she could to keep from beating him up.
- What did you say, my dear uncle? - she clenches her fist in hatred - Are you by any chance making my skull for the illustrious Doctor Ishida? Well, take back what you said right now, do you hear?
- Did I say something? Did you hear me say something? - he answers as cynically as possible.
Kukkaku prefers to ignore her relative's nerve, and with the best smile she could muster, she turns to Ryuuken.
- I accept your thanks, but on one condition: a dinner together.
- I knew it… - Isshin thought as he slapped his own forehead.
- A dinner? You and me? - he asks, surprised.
- And why not? Enjoying your company, even if it's just for a few minutes, will be the best way to thank him. - She offers him her kindest smile, although it doesn't succeed in breaking the serious posture of the handsome platinum haired man.
- Okay... this is my card. Call me whenever you want, then we'll have dinner. - He hands the small piece of paper to her, who takes it delightedly, only to later see her object of desire being dragged by the arm by her inedible uncle.
- You have no idea what a stupid thing you just did. - He slowly shakes his head in denial - Ishida, my friend, you're screwed.
A dry chuckle could be heard beneath the Quincy's bored gaze.
Back at the table, Yakushi was enjoying a delicious milk pudding, while Kukkaku caressed the card given to her by Ishida as if it were something precious. She brought the little piece of paper to her face, and there she could inhale the traces of Ryuuken's perfume still contained in it.
- Wasn't this the best of days? - the bankrupt noblewoman comments, rubbing the paper on her face with a dumbfounded expression - Kabuto-sensei got a job at this wonderful hospital, and I have that hot Quincy's card. It couldn't be better.
- Yes. I'm happy for you. - he gives a short answer, as he was more interested in eating, as the sweet was delicious.
- And you kept putting us off coming. Did you see what we would have missed if it weren't for my incredible intelligence?
- Yes yes…
The two spent hours there eating. Kabuto tried almost every dessert on the menu, each one more enchanting than the last. He had never tasted desserts as delicious as those served there in any of the Shinobi countries he had spied on, and he was already loving the idea of working in such a fancy place, as long as he could eat something so delicious
At the 3rd Division headquarters, Kira was packing his suitcase with all the things he would need to take to the World of the Living in order to fulfill the mission given to him by Kyoraku. In a way, even though he felt honored to have been chosen, the blond wasn't so excited about the new task. And it's not that he didn't like the World of the Living or anything, but... watching over a highly dangerous, troublesome Ninja...? That was... troublesome, from his humble point of view. He closed the small suitcase with some clothes more suitable for the Human World and headed towards the door, getting a fright as soon as he opened it.
- Hinamori-kun! - Izuru takes a small jump back, avoiding bumping into the sudden visitor - Do you want to give me a heart attack?
- I was going to knock on the door, but how could I have guessed that you were already behind it? - she answers amusedly with her usual smile - I heard about your new mission, and I'm glad I arrived in time to say goodbye. How long will you be gone?
- I don't know yet... - he scratches his chin thoughtfully - But it could be that I ended up taking longer than we think.
- But in a way, isn't that good? - She winks mischievously at him, and the Lieutenant doesn't understand his friend's sudden gesture.
- What do you mean?
- Because Kira-kun will be on this mission together with Rangiku-san. Don't you think it's a great opportunity to get closer and tell her how you feel?
Kira choked upon hearing that, and began to cough uncontrollably. His face was already turning blue when he finally managed to compose himself.
- What's this idea, Hinamori-kun? Do you realize what you're saying? - he replies, annoyed.
- It's precisely because I have a good idea of what I'm saying that I'm saying it. - she winks again at the blond's annoyed face - Anyway, I'll be rooting for the bridesmaid to be the bridesmaid soon. - after saying what she wanted, the sweet Lieutenant runs like lightning, letting out one last sentence before disappearing - Good luck, Kira-kun!
The blond sighed in defeat before closing the door behind him. How was it possible that Momo knew his most secret feelings for his Lieutenant friend? Granted, they had been close friends since their time at the academy, but Izuru never thought that his feelings would be an open book to Momo. Either way, he just hoped that his friend would be discreet and not mention such a conclusion to anyone, especially the voluptuous redhead in question.
…:~X~:...
Hours later, everyone was already in the World of the Living. They went to the cabin rented by Tsunade, where they could stay at ease, since there were several empty rooms. After Izuru and Rangiku settled in, the two met with the former Hokage, where they would hear from her what they would do next. The two Lieutenants introduced themselves briefly, and Tsunade began to look at the two, analyzing the duo meticulously. The blonde was surprised by Matsumoto's exaggeratedly sexy appearance. She had to admit that the redhead was very beautiful, and she hoped that her skills were, at the very least, equivalent to her beauty, or that, at least, this beauty could bring some advantage to the mission.
Then, his gaze remained on Izuru, who in turn seemed embarrassed and uncomfortable with the woman's wide-open and incisive gaze on him. He was shy. Couldn't she notice? With his face red as a tomato, he felt Tsunade approaching, but he didn't move, even when she held him by the chin, so that he could look at her with those beautiful blue eyes.
- But look what we have here, Shizune. - she comments to her subordinate as she analyzes Kira's face - Are there so many beautiful Shinigamis up there? - Tsunade mentions Soul Society as if it were heaven, while moving Izuru's long bangs aside in order to admire the shy boy's eyes - And those blue eyes! How divine! You're so cute! You should put a little more joy in those beautiful eyes.
- Did she really say that? I never thought I would live to see Tsunade-sama call a man "cute". - Shizune thinks to herself, as she observes the scene, considering that her Master was not drunk yet.
- Excuse me… - Rangiku interrupts her, already uncomfortable with the busty ex-Hokage's hands roaming over Kira's blushing face, as she knew her friend also felt uncomfortable - Can we know what we'll have to do here, after all?
- You're right. What we need to do is keep an eye on a certain Medical Ninja. Here's his full file. - He hands the duo a copy of Yakushi's files, who immediately begin to analyze them - As you can see from his history, I must emphasize that you shouldn't be guided by appearances. From the photo, it may seem like this boy is harmless and without skills, but he is a deadly, highly skilled and powerful Ninja. Under no circumstances should you underestimate him, much less engage in any kind of direct combat with him.
- I understand the situation, but how are we going to watch him? With all due respect, wouldn't it be more appropriate if you Ninjas took care of this yourselves? - Izuru asks, still not knowing what to do.
- But that's exactly why I need your help. Kabuto Yakushi was an elite spy for the Root ANBU. He's not the kind of person who's easy to fool, he's the deceiver, and that means that neither I nor anyone he knows will be able to spy on him without raising suspicions. - he sits up straight in his chair and takes a deep breath before continuing - The spy will be spied on. Do you think you can do it?
- It is true that we are extremely skilled Shinigami, but neither Division 3, much less Division 10, are experts in espionage. In that case, Commander Kyoraku should have provided an officer from Division 2. - Kira brings up an important detail, but Matsumoto looks at him with great interest.
- Come on, Kira! I think the two of us are more than enough for this mission, and there's more! I can seduce this boy, sneak into his house, and find out if he's really planning something evil or if he's posing some kind of threat. - He blurts out all this madness at once as if it were no big deal, to which Izuru and Shizune look shocked. Tsunade, in turn, is delighted, and opens a huge smile, bordering on evil.
- I love that idea! - the blonde claps her hands euphorically - That would be great! In fact, it would be ideal. If you can make him fall in love, you can get any information you want. So I'm counting on you, Matsumoto. Kira can cover for you, and you can pass on to me everything you find out. I don't think we'll have any problems.
- Tsunade-sama, this is crazy - Shizune protests, trying to make her mentor come back to her senses - Playing with a person's feelings like that...
- Since when does Kabuto Yakushi deserve anyone's consideration, Shizune? Did he have any consideration when he started that damn war that resulted in so many victims? Besides, I highly doubt that this guy could ever love anyone, so you don't need to be so sensitive about our methods of action.
Shizune simply didn't answer. For some reason, she didn't have a good feeling about the whole thing. She preferred to agree with Kakashi and leave Orochimaru's former right-hand man alone, but she knew that nothing in this world would make Tsunade change her mind and she feared that her crazy obsessions would end up causing problems.
- So that's how we agreed. The first thing we have to do is locate Kabuto Yakushi in this city. Then, we just have to think about what your first interaction with him will be like.
The Lieutenants agree, and after drinking a little, each one goes to their room to rest. Kira hears light knocks on his room door as soon as he enters, and when he opens it a crack, he ends up seeing Shizune.
- Excuse me, can I come in for a moment?
- Oh, of course. Please. - he says kindly, opening the door for her to enter.
- I apologize for coming after you. I'll be brief. Can I get your opinion on all this?
- I think the same as yours... - he sits on the bed, giving a long, annoyed sigh - This all seems crazy to me, and from what I could see, your superior and Matsumoto-san are very similar. - he gives a half-smile of defeat.
- You seem to have read my mind. I think we're going to have our work cut out for us to keep these two in line.
- Shizune-san really thinks so? Because I have an even more pessimistic feeling - she shakes her head in denial, attracting a curious look from the Kunoichi.
- Those two won't listen to anyone. Honestly... I fear how this mission will unfold.
Shizune ends up agreeing with the blonde, and goes to her room with the same feeling of regret.
…:~X~:...
At the end of that day, Kabuto rested on his bed, staring at the ceiling of his room, while he shifted his gaze to the left through the glass of the huge window to watch the sun set. He reflected on everything that had happened in a single day. The ungrateful Quincy he had healed, the father of the ungrateful Quincy who had offered him a job, the existence of Quincies and Shinigamis in general... There were so many strange things. The platinum-haired man never imagined that that city held so many mysteries. He expected to live a quiet and peaceful life in that place, but he ended up discovering that Karakura was more "interesting" than he thought.
Thinking about this, his thoughts ended up going to Kukkaku. In a way, he owed all of this to her. He wanted to thank her, and what better way than by giving her a new arm? He promised he would bring it up the next time he saw her, and now that he was an official employee of the city's largest hospital, doing such a favor to a friend would be child's play.
But there was something else… The strange energy that Kabuto felt in those beings. It was nothing like any Chakra he had ever felt, but he had already learned to recognize such energies, even after spending so little time with them. The functioning was not that different from Chakra, anyway.
Kabuto's thoughts wandered through several things that had happened in such a short space of time. As he remembered years ago, he thought of a certain person he had met when he was still serving Orochimaru... a person who, somehow, had never stopped being on his mind, even if in a somewhat confusing or controversial way. He thought of her with a mixture of admiration and perhaps even... respect? He couldn't define it clearly.
What the Medical Ninja had no idea was that his presence at Karakura Hospital would change his life, and even less that the former spy would be the target of espionage very soon…
…:~X~:...
It was late that night. Shinji was walking slowly through Sereitei towards the 5th Division headquarters after leaving a restaurant where he had dinner with Rose and Kensei. As he made his usual way down a dimly lit street, he noticed someone else nearby. Sneaky and very clever, Hirako tried to hide his Reiatsu and followed the person, whose silhouette he had only seen. As he followed, the blond soon realized that it was Lisa when they passed a brighter street, and wondered what on earth she was doing there, since his own Division was on the completely opposite side.
If there was one thing Shinji was extremely skilled at, it was his perceptiveness. He soon noticed that they were making their way towards Division 6, and was about to confirm that his small suspicion at the last Captains' meeting was completely correct. Yadomaru was about to enter the barracks silently, trying to jump over the wall without being noticed, when she was startled when she felt a grab on her left arm.
- Since when have you been hanging out with the starched Captain? - he asks in a low, playful tone with a huge smile on his face.
- What the hell, Hirako! Do you want to scare me to death?! - he fills his hand and pulls a long lock of Shinji's hair with desire, who groans in pain as he is also caught by surprise.
- Damn, let me go! This hurts, you know? - he retorts, upset - It even looks like Hiyori. I don't understand this aggressive instinct of yours.
- It's your fault you let your hair grow back. With it short you wouldn't be in such danger. What do you think you're doing here, you crazy guy? Did you manage to follow me now? - she retorts irritated, because she still couldn't believe she had been caught so easily like that - You have no right to demand explanations about my life. So what if I'm sleeping with Kuchiki? This is something that only concerns the two of us, and for no reason are you going to open that gigantic mouth to anyone, do you understand, you big gossip?! - she tries to speak as quietly as possible so as not to be noticed, because she wanted to shout loudly in the ears of the nosy blond, whose amused expression remained unchanged, so, seeing that he wasn't shocked, she continued - Mind your own damn life and try to find a woman who finds that strange face of yours pretty! - she points to Shinji's nose, whose expression changed to a completely serious and desolate expression.
- I'm just going to make two things clear to you: first: I wasn't following you. It was just a coincidence. Second: I'm not demanding explanations about your life, because I'm no one to do so. I just asked the question in a joking tone, because you're not obligated to answer me anything. If I decided to come after you, it was because I consider you a sister and I care. We all know very well the ridiculous rules and prejudices that infest these members of the nobility, and for no reason did I want to see you hurt or suffer eventually. - he turns his back to her before finishing his outburst - Don't worry. No one will know. No matter what they think, I look better with long hair. - he says smiling, trying to hide his discontent, tossing his long locks to the side with his hand in a relaxed gesture - Enjoy the night as I know you will. We just can't forget who we are. And just one more thing. - He looks back at her, who swallows dryly - Unlike you, I don't need anyone between my legs to be happy. - He says goodbye with a brief wave as he uses a shunpo, leaving the brunette with a bitter feeling of guilt before continuing with her original plan of spending another night with Byakuya.
Arriving at his Division, Shinji goes to the kitchen to quench his thirst. He was very upset by Lisa's reaction, and that she had thought he would deliberately follow her. He was just worried, which was natural, and couldn't help but feel sad for having been so misunderstood. The blond was so focused on his thoughts that he didn't even notice that the light was on, and that his body had bumped into someone else.
- Hinamori-chan! - He turns quickly and holds Momo in his arms before she hits the floor, making the sweet Lieutenant blush with embarrassment, seeing that her Captain was analyzing her embarrassed state - I'm sorry. I didn't see you were here. - He stands her up as he recovers - At this time I thought you were already asleep.
- Sorry, Captain Hirako. I couldn't sleep, so I came to make some tea.
- Chamomile?
- Eh? - he blinks several times, because Shinji had hit the nail on the head - How do you know?
- I smelled it.
She smiles, holding out a cup to her Captain, who looks at her in surprise.
- I did a lot. I hope it helps the Captain sleep well, because he seems a little worried. - he comments naturally, and Shinji is surprised that his Lieutenant was so precise about his condition, or maybe he himself was a very transparent and easy-to-read person. He preferred to think of the first option.
- Thank you very much, Hinamori-chan.
The two of them drank their tea in silence. Although Momo could tell that something was bothering Shinji, she thought it would be disrespectful to ask, although in her opinion, he needed to open up at this moment. So, each of them went to their respective rooms, in order to rest for the next day that would not be long in coming