Adult-FanFiction.org : Bleach

For The Love of a Friend	By : orionshadow Category: Bleach > Het - Male/Female Views: 32416 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach, nor the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 41
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Tite Kubo owns Bleach and the characters depicted therein.   Most of the characters in this story are not mine, except for the original characters. I make no money from the publication of this work.
Lovers Division
Soi walked, not certain if the lieutenant would follow her, but intent on her destination and making her thoughts on how matters had been handled very plain.
“I think it’s a bad idea to keep the 11^th under lockdown, especially with that trouble maker. They’d be more useful maintaining the borders of Soul Society and the Seireitei. They could watch for incursions from the Hollows or Arrancar and they’d be on full alert, not thinking about revenge.” Matsumoto stunned Soi by speaking to her so clearly and without any sign of fear.
She stopped and looked at the woman who bit her lip, suddenly appearing uncertain of herself. From confident to concerned within minutes. Was she so unused to expressing her opinion or was it she worried no one would listen to her, or mock her words?
In an effort to provide some support for her reasonable suggestions, Soi replied, “I will inform the Captain-General of your suggestion. I agree that the borders need to be carefully patrolled at this time. Normally, Divisions are kept here, but if we can at least entrust the 11^th Division with manning the walls and especially providing support for the gate guards of the Seireitei our security will be increased.”
The woman was quiet and didn't respond. Was she shocked, or did she genuinely have nothing else to add?
They continued walking, and despite everything she'd promised herself she found she was asking, “Did your Captain look well?”
The women turned looked at her and answered with a questioning look in her eyes, “Actually the last time I saw him he looked relieved. Iemura had just asked Momo to marry him.”
“Iemura? From 4^th Division? He is going to marry Momo Hinamori?” She hadn't noticed she'd stopped walking. She didn't wish to admit that there may have been a tinge of hope in her voice. The news astonished her and the slight thrill that sang in her heart had to be squashed.
Shrugging Zaraki's wife replied, “They haven’t asked for permission, yet. He’s promised to take care of her and the child.”
Soi lost control of her facial expressions for once. It was impossible to hide her joy, but she hoped it wasn't that obvious.
Matsumoto continued, after looking at Soi intently, “My Captain is relieved. He’d asked me if he should offer to marry Momo and I told him it was a bad idea. A marriage based on pity is a bad idea.”
Soi frowned. That seemed odd. For most of this time she'd thought Toshiro was in love with Momo, a love thwarted by her obsession over Aizen. “Pity? Not love?”
Matsumoto nodded and said with a great amount of honesty, “He loves her as a friend, but he was only thinking about marrying her because he felt sorry for her. He’s always been overprotective of Momo.”
Soi tried hard not to scowl as she spoke. Overprotective seemed too simple for the way most people treated Momo. “As have many people. And you forgave her even though she tried to kill you." It was hard to keep the surprise out of her voice.
It was hard for her to comprehend forgiving anyone, least of all a friend who tried to murder her. Yoruichi had fought her, but not sought her death. If Soi wasn't able to forgive enemies for their natural inclination to end her life, how could she understand forgiving someone who was meant to be a friend? Yet, she'd forgiven Yoruichi. How could she withhold forgiveness from her beautiful goddess?
Matsumoto's face took on a sad and compassionate expression. The woman genuinely felt sympathy for the silly fool. “She’d lost everything. She adores Captain Aizen and can’t accept he deserted her, or what he did to me. When she heard that he’d ordered Gin to come after me and not her, I think that hurt the most. It’s almost like Aizen discovered all her little dreams and has set out to crush them, one by one. Toshiro told me not to trust pity, but I feel so sorry for Momo and guilty.”
The woman felt guilty? Her friend tried to kill her and she felt guilty? Once again Soi recognised she didn't understand people, and women were more difficult to understand than men. “Why do you feel guilty?”
The answer was quickly given. “Because when Zaraki returns I’ll have everything I want,” as a soppy look appeared.
The woman seemed to display increasing obsession every time she talked about her husband. How could one man mean so much? “The return of a man will make you happy?”
“Not just him. I have my friends, my Division, Captain Hitsugaya and everything that’s ahead of me. But I miss my husband.” Was the woman protesting too much? Her husband, her friends, her life were important.
Suddenly Soi wished her friend, Retsu was there. And that she was at least on speaking terms with Toshiro. Rather than think these melancholy thoughts, she decided to change the topic of conversation to one which was at least more comfortable and was something she'd wondered for some time.
“Don’t you aspire to bankai, to become a captain of your own Division?”
The startled look on the woman's face showed she hadn't expected that question and the answer shocked Soi. “And have to do all the paperwork? There’s so much responsibility in being a captain. You’ve got to think of your Division and monitor what’s going on. There are so many rules, people watch you all the time and there’s all the politics.”
All this was true, but didn't everyone want power? “But you naturally slipped into the command role when we visited 11^th Division,” she commented, “and your comments about keeping them busy show’s a Captain’s knowledge and responsibility.”
Matsumoto's face went carefully blank and she seemed to be thinking before she answered. She shrugged and said, “I’ve watched Captain Hitsugaya and other captains. I tried to think what they would do and what Zaraki would want. It wasn’t anything.”
Only half the question was answered. The woman didn't want to be a captain, yet there was the other matter. “But bankai?”
“My Captain tried to help. It didn’t. I’m no closer to bankai than I was a year ago." A short reply and it seemed odd. Soi couldn't decide if the woman was upset over her failure, or pleased. Either way, it appeared she might be hiding something.
There was a pause and finally Matsumoto added “I was working on it." She seemed to be embarrassed by the admission.
“I think I could help you,” she hadn't anticipated making the offer, but everyone needed to improve their abilities, especially now.
The look of shock on the woman's face amused Soi. Until now, it seemed Matsumoto had very carefully maintained control over her expression. There was no denying she was pleased at the suggestion.
“My Zanpakuto is closer in spirit to yours than your Captain’s. You need to understand your potential. After we visit the Old Man, we’ll work together for a time,” she sighed, her eyes becoming clouded with memories. “I recall working with Yoruichi and how she helped me." She shook off the memory. "But that was long ago.”
They walked toward 1^st Division again. The walk was quiet while Soi wondered about the letter. Would it contain any revelations, or was it a request they become friends. She didn't want to be friends, not anymore, unless it meant friends who ...
She killed the thought before it could lead to any idle fancies or whims. The meeting ahead was important and the distraction of Toshiro was something she didn't want or need. Time enough to think about it afterward. She even tried to stifle any wash of anticipation as that too led to problems with concentration.
To her surprise Captain Yamamoto agreed to see them. As usual he remained seated while she talked, offering neither refreshment or the offer of a seat. Straightening her back she began. "11th Division are not reacting well to lockdown."
"I didn't do it for their entertainment," Captain Yamamoto replied.
"Trouble is brewing. For the moment it is under control, but these people are used to physical activity and constantly working otherwise they start drinking and get into fights."
"Even when they are not under lockdown they drink and get into fights," was the pointed response.
She nodded in agreement, but then proposed Matsumoto's idea. "The 10th Division lieutenant suggested they be put on patrol, accompanied by members of my Division to make certain no further trouble arises. We don't know what Aizen is planning, or if there will be other incursion or attempted abductions. Vigilance is important."
"No. If I release the 11th Division from lockdown, it will be seen as favouritism. To be fair to all would require lockdown be lifted from all the Divisions. I am not prepared to do this."
"The problem has been resolved. Lieutenant Matsumoto is well and Lieutenant Hinamori is now in her right mind and will not attempt any further attacks."
The Old Man thinned his lips and looked dour. "No."
"Captain, we need to be at full strength. If we cease the lockdown and make certain all Divisions are busy at all times there will be no further issues. Make them train. Patrol. Anything, but this inaction will be our undoing."
"Prove it."
"Why does she have to prove anything?" Matsumoto burst out. "It's silly."
Soi smiled briefly and added, "I have an undertaking from both 10th and 11th Division that they will take no further action, provided they are released from lockdown." It was a small lie, but easily fixed.
"If you do not accept, I will withdraw my Division from further participation as is my right."
A small stunned silence followed her announcement.
"You are forcing my decision, Captain, and I do not appreciate being dictated to by a subordinate."
Soi bowed and said, "I can understand your position, Commander-General, but these are unusual times."
"I agree on the condition you will be held responsible for any problems arising from this. Do you understand my meaning?"
Pleased at the concession, Soi nodded. "Fully. A Captain is always responsible for the actions of her Division, further responsibilities do not bother me."
"I will place an interim commanding officer in charge of 12th Division. Someone from outside."
It seemed fair as Akon was now held in a cell and the chain of command was not clear. Soi guessed his next pronouncement and interjected before he said it.
“I would also like 10^th Division to work with mine, providing information about how to fight the Arrancar.” She kept her tone firm and forbidding. “I am certain that if we train together we will increase our abilities and as Captain Hitsugaya and the lieutenant have experience with the Arrancar in both the human world and here, their input will be invaluable, Sir.”
Captain Yamamoto opened his mouth to protest, but before he could speak she made her final demand.
“You will also release Ikkaku Madarame and Yumichika Ayasegawa. I will take the lieutenant to see them so they can be assured she is well and she can reassure them. They were, after all, only carrying out their Captain’s orders to protect his wife. You can punish them after this is over, if you must, but the 11^th need them.” This was essential as it was obvious to her the Division needed firm leadership in the current situation.
“Request denied!”
He was stern in his refusal, but this was too important to permit him to make the wrong decision.
“You must listen. Discipline is declining rapidly in the Division and there are a few troublemakers who are already causing more dissension. If the 3^rd and 5^th seat are there they will keep the rabble-rousers busy.”
Surely he must see the sense of her request. On many occasions during the Captains meetings he'd made it clear to Zaraki his Division required firm leadership. He'd emphasised the importance of discipline and indicated that unless matters improved he might take a more personal interest. Was he deliberately choosing to forget?
“I would remind you, Captain Fong, that yesterday these men tried to kill a senior officer. They would have succeeded if Captain Hitsugaya, Lieutenant Izuru and Captain Kyoraku weren’t there, guarding both lieutenants, without my permission or knowledge. If Captain Hitsugaya had been with his Division they may not now be under lockdown.” Why did the Old Man have to be so difficult?
Why? Because he was a man and men hated to listen to advice, especially if it was good advice or it originated from a woman. Yet, perhaps she wasn't being fair. This particular male didn't appreciate advice from anyone.
Soi suppressed a groan which ended up sounding as if she were contradicting him. “And Momo might be dead. Release both men or expect consequences, worse than those I have threatened previously. Put some of your own men to watch them if you must, but they’re needed. I warn you, Captain Yamamoto.” It pleased her that her voice sounded firm and authoritative.
He opened his eyes and she saw a flash of anger. The man hated being contradicted, warned or even listening to another person's advice. Well, too bad for him.
“Sir, please. Their Captain has given them orders to be with me at all times if I’m not with another Captain. I’ll make them promise not to hurt Momo.” Matsumoto spoke before the Old Man could reply, her tone gentle and persuasive.
“You are not the first two to make these demands,” said the Old Man grumpily. He rubbed his chin, thoughtfully and then looked at Soi, a meaningful expression on his features. This did not bode well. Each time she'd seen the expression it had meant some new difficulty. “I’ll agree to release these men on a number of conditions to which they must agree. Captain Fong, you will have your people monitoring them at all times and there will be a cost to you which we will discuss now. Lieutenant, leave us. Wait outside.”
This was something Soi had been waiting for. He was preparing to make additional demands and add conditions, making everything unworkable. She needed a witness and for some reason she found Matsumoto' s support reassuring.
Once more she needed to be firm and decisive or all the effort so far expended might well be wasted. “No. She remains. I make no deals. You need to do this for the good of the Seireitei and the Gotei 13, which you created,” leaning forward for emphasis, she tried to look into his eyes. “Think on this. I can reverse Captain Shihoin’s decision regarding my Division.”
The threat was real. Her special position within the Seireitei had one difference to all the others. When 2nd Division was created, the position of Captain was designated to be filled by members of the Shihoin clan only. Soi had often wondered why none of Yoruichi's family had challenged her appointment to the Captaincy. As she was also the Commander of the Secret Corps and administered the Maggots Nest, among other responsibilities, many of her duties were autonomous and functioned outside the rules normally placed on other Divisions.
In other words, she could administer the Special Forces wholly at her own discretion, without reference to the Captain-Commander, or so she believed. He would lose the additional sources of information she supplied and other valuable infrastructure and knowledge.
Staring at Yamamoto, determination etched firmly on her features, she waited for his response. There was the possibility he might consider her threat was pure bluff, but she knew it wasn't. Recent events had caused her to question where her loyalty should be directed and this man's actions were on the point of estranging her completely.
As expected, the man searched her face, while attempting to appear calm and in control of the situation. She didn't lower her eyes, instead staring at him, ready to meet any challenge he issued to her. His reiatsu pushed at her, trying to sway her in some way, but she stood firm and pushed back with her own. No man would best her, not now, not ever.
It almost seemed an impasse, but she sensed a softening as he gauged her determination and an expression, almost of respect, crossed his face and he emitted a sharp bark of laughter and nodded. “I have no doubt that you would do that, Commander. We will have our reckoning after this crisis is over.”
Was this a win? For the present she had prevailed, but of course the threat she'd made was too important to overlook. At least he was prepared to wait until the looming threats were neutralised, however long that might be and assuming the Seireitei existed. It might happen, it might never happen, but if the two senior Eleventh Division men weren't released now, none of them might be there to help with the inevitable battle.
Nodding curtly, Soi turned on her heel and said over her shoulder, “Issue the command to release the 3^rd and 5^th seat. We will explain matters to them and escort them to their Division.”
Her own bravery impressed her and she automatically straightened her shoulders as she prepared to leave the room, but Yamamoto had to have the final word.
“You can wait. I will speak to them first and explain the conditions for their release, then you may escort them.”
Always exerting his authority. At least he'd agreed to the release and arguing with him over a small matter might cause him to change his mind. Deciding to agree, she tried to make it appear it suited her plans.
“Very well. We’ll go and reassure the 10^th Division of their lieutenant’s survival and then we will return,” her voice was clear and firm and she left the room, hoping that the Tenth Division Lieutenant had the sense to follow without prompting.
Soi hadn't realised how fast she was walking until she heard the sound of sandals slapping against the ground as the woman ran to catch up with her. She slowed slightly and wasn't terribly surprised when the woman began to ask a question, by not asking. “Captain, I won’t ask why you are angry with Captain Yamamoto."
There were so many reasons, but it was futile to outline them. “Good, because I will not answer that question. I can’t,” she said trying to curb the anger which seemed eager to find an outlet.
“But what did you mean about 2^nd Division?” So much for hoping that the woman wouldn't ask any further questions. Were all women this curious, or just Matsumoto? None of her subordinates questioned her to this extent, until recently. What had changed? Was it her, or the way people saw her, or the whole set of events which had led them to this time?
In the heat of the moment she'd said something which should have never been said in front of a witness, but it was too late now. She would appeal to the woman to keep it quiet. “I should have said the Special Forces under my command, not the whole Division,” sighing angrily she pushed at her hair. “I was too angry to think the threat through correctly. Like most men he can be so stubborn and it infuriates me that he…” Before she could say anything more she stopped and took a deep breath and swallowed. Another near accident with words. “I can’t really carry out the threat unless I receive the full backing of the Shihoin clan. The Special Forces, which include the Punishment Division, the Executive Militia and the Patrol Corps, traditionally answer to the head of the Shihoin clan, not the Captain of the 2^nd Division. I was merely reminding Captain Yamamoto of this. The control of these elite forces should have reverted back to the family when Yoruichi left, but it was considered an imposition on the people already shamed by her defection.”
Why had she explained? It was too late to take back the words, and she noticed the woman seemed both impressed and shocked at her explanation.    She watched expressions pass across the lieutenant's face until it took on that longing unfocused expression it had when she thought of her husband. Now might be the time to administer a warning, while she was open.
“I am very serious, so think before you question me. It would be wise to leave the matter there, Lieutenant,” she said.
A quick nod showed the woman understood, but of course the questions didn't cease. The one good factor was she changed the subject. “Why are you escorting me?”
Once more anger surged through Soi. Her Division, her Special Forces had failed. The Seireitei had been infiltrated despite their heightened alert status. Had her words to her subordinates been wasted? Her urging of them to be extra cautious and vigilant, or had everyone relaxed thinking that a wedding celebration wouldn't be interrupted? The stigma of her Division's failure might never be expunged and her pride wounded as a result. “You were abducted when you were meant to be under my protection and I feel responsible. I hate it when any of my people fail. I am accountable.”
To her surprise, Matsumoto shook her head, as if denying her words, but she didn't permit her to speak. It didn't matter what she said or thought. It was her shame and couldn't be denied. Instead, Soi changed the subject. “Captain Hitsugaya is staying at 4^th Division in case another attempt is made on Lieutenant Hinamori’s life, or so I have been informed.” Still protecting Momo. Always protecting Momo. “The news about Hinamori’s engagement changes nothing. People may still wish to see her die, especially as the identity of the father of her child is now widespread.   I promised Kenpachi that I would protect you if Tos… Captain Hitsugaya was unavailable, or if anything happened to Madarame or Ayasegawa. It seemed unlikely at the time, but he was in earnest." She'd failed Kenpachi once and a second failure was unthinkable. Then she admitted another reason which felt like it was being wrenched from her and her cheeks flushed as she remembered that night when she had sought comfort and been gently deflected. “Also you never mentioned my mistake, to anyone. Captain Unohana approves of you and as I value her judgement I have decided to overlook our history.”
The woman's eyes widened slightly and she nodded and then shook her head as if confused about the correct response. Soi began to walk toward 11th Division again and Matsumoto followed. Too much had been said and revealed and she felt uncomfortably vulnerable. How much had she exposed, how many of her emotions had she unwillingly displayed.
A quiet voice broke through her thoughts. “I decided to forget about it. I’ve made so many mistakes that I’d forgotten other people make then too. You could have used your position to make my life difficult, but you didn’t. Anyway, Zaraki distracted me.”
Did this mean that if Kenpachi hadn't come into the woman's life she might have said something, but she's already stated she knew it was a mistake and people made mistakes. It appeared she was expressing compassion and consideration and again she reassessed the woman she'd dismissed so easily before this series of events. Light headed and hearted, not a fitting lieutenant as she seemed too intent on drinking, having fun and men. Now all those beliefs were being questioned the more she learnt.
Rather than say anything, Soi nodded in reply, not daring to look at the woman.
“Captain, I promise that that incident will never be mentioned to anyone." There was sincerity in the words, but why believe anyone? Yoruichi had told her she loved her and then left her.
This woman wasn't Yoruichi and now she knew there was love after disappointment. She said, “I will kill you if you do, " but relief made her smile. If they understood each other, they could move on and the incident might be forgotten, especially if the woman was reunited with her husband.
The woman responded with a gentle but amusing reminder. “Zaraki won’t like it if you kill me.”
Soi nearly laughed. Who knew conversations could be so amusing? However she sobered as she recalled how quickly the situation might have deteriorated. “No. He won’t like it if he can see any sign of harm. It’s good for all of us that Toshiro acted so quickly and no damage is perceivable. Hanatoro, for all he acts like a fool, can repair most physical damage." Examining Matsumoto, it wasn't possible to detect any visible signs of the damage inflicted on her by Momo's blade.
Briefly she wondered why a member of 12th Division wanted the 11th Division's lieutenant dead, unless it was to cause the problems they were currently facing. But why Matsumoto? it had been a attack directed only at her and it was obviously planned. The strangest part was Akon usually didn't act unless it was at the direction of his Captain. Why did Kurotsuchi want the woman dead? What deep seated hatred drove him?
There was no answer as it appeared her companion was lost in thought. The silence suited Soi as there was a great amount to think about and not all of it pleasant.
For some reason as they neared the Division she recalled how they had prepared sushi for the wedding feast. She'd even tried some and found it to be palatable. The thought of Toshiro preparing food amused her but she wondered if anyone found it amusing she'd assisted in the preparation of ramen. Her lieutenant had eventually been forcibly evicted from the kitchen as he'd insisted on tasting everything and then eaten most of the first attempts. A taster they didn't need. Otherwise he'd been in the way of the people working, providing useless advice. Obviously the man didn't know how to cook and now Soi knew he'd never needed to even think about making his own food. Her lips thinned as she thought about him, but then remembered the camaraderie which had grown between those who were cooking. It may have been a catalyst for the women seeking to talk to her about the problems they were experiencing with him. Rather than continue the line of thought she said, “This shouldn’t take long. I don’t think you’ll be required to make sushi or ramen. You are here to provide reassurance that you are alive and without any visible damage.”
Without meaning to she muttered under her breath, “Lockdown is a real pain in the craw. Three divisions locked down at the same time are almost beyond our resources to maintain. If the Old Man doesn’t listen to me, things will get dangerous.”
The astonished look showed she'd spoken louder than she's planned. “But I thought 10^th wasn’t under lockdown anymore because they will be training with your Division." Matsumoto protested.
The conversation with Yamamoto had not been clear, now she thought about it. She was used to dealing with him and how he expressed himself. “You weren’t listening, or maybe you don’t understand the bargain. 10^th Division will be allowed to leave, but only in the company of members of my Division. In other words, they are guarded at all times, but allowed more freedom of movement. Toshiro should be here, not skulking around Lieutenant Hinamori. He takes loyalty too far." Why was she thinking about the woman again? Momo was engaged but it seemed Toshiro was as devoted as ever.
The response thankfully interrupted her thoughts. “Without his loyalty I’d be either dead or badly injured. If you ever take the time to get to know him, Captain Fong, I’m sure you’ll like him. You have a lot in common. “He can relax sometimes and even make jokes.”
Did the woman know something? It seemed she did as she was providing information about her Captain and his friend. Not knowing what to do, she considered Matsumoto's words. Toshiro making jokes? Memories of some of the absurd situations in which they'd found themselves made her smile. The stupid things he'd said, the near escapes when they'd accidentally met in the linen room. It was absurd. Everything was ridiculous. Her smile turned into laughter and she tried to prevent it from escaping. How could she explain her laugher as it only made sense to her? She felt the woman's eyes on her and wondered how she'd react.
“He can be fun,” Matsumoto insisted, her voice rising slightly as if disturbed by her suppressed laughter.
Taking a deep breath she managed to quell the amusement. “I’m not doubting you Lieutenant; it’s just I’ve never heard you speak about your Captain like that. I haven’t heard anyone tell me he has a sense of humour." It was hard to stop smiling or keep the amusement out of her voice. She knew Toshiro could be fun and amusing and amusing and angry.   She missed it.
More protests followed. “Captain Hitsugaya works very hard and most people treat him like an infant. I don’t think that’s fair." Until now she hadn't realised how very fond the lieutenant was of her captain. There were deep feelings of friendship there and she was glad. It made her aware that Toshiro was capable of rousing emotions in others which indicated care and concern for his welfare.
However, one particular comment amused her even more. She certainly hadn't treated him as an infant. Infants were not suitable sexual partners and he'd proven a certain talent in that direction. “I don’t treat him like an infant." Immediately she worried she'd revealed too much. The next questions indicated it was indeed possible.
"Can you tell me if there’s anything I should know about? New relationships? Why Rukia delayed her wedding to Renji?” Interesting questions, especially about the relationship between the Kuchiki female and her brother's lieutenant.
How could she answer? The reason presented for the delay had raised more questions. It had seemed likely the marriage would take place before this ill planned excursion to the Arrancar stronghold, but it hadn't happened. Gazing into the distance, she frowned. So many relationships had formed so suddenly.   It didn't seem natural. What could she say without revealing anything?
A non-answer was the best solution. “Many things have happened but most of them I cannot discuss. You will find out; depending on how matters progress."
Before any more difficult questions were asked, Soi was relieved to see they had arrived. Quickly she changed the topic. “Let’s get this over with." Leading the way she walked to the place which had been purposely set up for this. If people couldn't see their lieutenant, it would be more difficult to convince them she was alive and well. Waiting for silence she scanned the crowd to make certain there were no threats. “Your Lieutenant is here and well, as you can see. Her injuries were minor and she is fully recovered and able to resume duty.”
The expected calling of questions prevented her from saying anything further and she listened to what was being asked, or what she could make out.
"Let her speak for herself!"
"Where's Captain Hitsugaya? He should be here."
"Lieutenant, can you stop the lockdown?"
"Is Momo dead? I hope she is."
Soi shot a quick look at the last person who spoke. While she shared the sentiment, even thinking about Momo still aroused her irritation. How could Toshiro failed to recognise her flaws? “Lieutenant Hinamori is recovering and Captain Hitsugaya is on guard to prevent any further attacks.   Your attitude does you no service.”
The man who spoke didn't appreciate the reprimand but he muttered “Sorry,” with bad grace.
Now that was explained, the rest of the instructions had to be delivered. “Once I clear it with your Captain you will be working with my Division to prepare for battle with the Arrancar, Hollows and traitors.”
The expected ruckus followed the words and Soi decided to wait until the Division expressed their outrage/concern/interest or whatever emotion her words created. There was time, but she still dearly wished to read the letter Toshiro had written. Her hand slipped into her pocket where the letter rested and the act of simply touching it made her impatient to get this finished, make the Old Man release the 11th Division Officers and get all this out of the way.
She wanted to read the letter. Was it one worth reading? Why had Toshiro written it now? Had he written it before or after he discovered Momo was engaged and no longer required him to step in and play the role of husband? Or had he been considering severing their relationship formally, by letter?
Now she'd thought about the letter, after denying its existence, the urge to read it and know its contents consumed her, but her work required her attention. Once she'd managed to get the lockdown situation resolved, then she could read it. She tried to force any thoughts of the letter out of her mind, instead concentrating on the events in front of her.
“You are still under lockdown and your actions will be monitored, but it will give you more freedom of movement. If merely one of you acts in a manner that causes complaint, the whole division will be returned to full lockdown, without privileges.”
Blessed silence followed. Why she didn't know, but it was better than the recurrent noise which had accompanied each of her announcements. Finally one lone voice spoke.
“Will you be staying here with us, Lieutenant?" At last, a sensible question and Soi decided it was best if Matsumoto answered it.
“No. I have something I have to do. I’ll be back later, but please don’t try to hurt Lieutenant Hinamori. She is Captain Hitsugaya’s friend and he would be annoyed if she was injured.” She smiled gently as she spoke, but the hint of reproach in her words made a few member of the Division look at the ground and shuffle their feet in shame. Who could have guessed her simple words delivered gently might have more effect than a forceful statement delivered by a Captain? Soi again considered the woman seriously. She had so much potential but was too lazy to use it.
One person clearly remained unimpressed, but not willing to reveal their identity as the voice was disguised. “You’d think he’d be more upset that his lieutenant was attacked and nearly killed.”
Soi waited for the answer, wondering if the lieutenant would once more manage to make her case clearly and simply. “He is upset and he’s the one who saved me."
“Remember, comments like that will keep us under lockdown,” the woman who'd asked if Matsumoto was remaining added. These two women were obviously friends and Soi guessed they could be formidable when they worked together. Toshiro had some very good officers working for him.
The desire to read the letter clawed at her and this discussion was over. She wanted to go, now. “I will return your lieutenant in a while.”
Her hand still rested on the letter as they left the Division.
==========================================================================================================================================
A.N.
Finally finished it. Didn't think it would happen, but made some time while hiding from family, friends and other demands.
This chapter is dedicated to DN. Thank you.
Soundtrack
'Falling Hard' The Crystal Method
'Locking Down (Dead Guy's Mix)' Chicane
'Cusum Perficio' Enya
'Talking with Myself '98 (Canny Remix)' Electribe 101
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