Chapter 3: Rukia's Worries

Our orders today are to find and deal with the Zanpakuto that escaped to the world of the living.

Are you listening, Rangiku?

I get it, Captain. Why are you picking on me?

I just want to make sure you understand the purpose of today's trip.

Don't worry. Let's get it over with so I can go shopping at the mall near the station.

I knew it! Get your priorities straight!

I'm just kidding. Right, Rukia?

Huh? Oh, yes, right!

Whatever. As long as we get our work done quickly. Let's go.

So that's why you're here in the world of the living? Is there anything I can help you with?

We can't really move until we get the enemy's reading on our Soul Pager anyway.

You've done more than enough already, letting us rest here.

Yeah, thanks.

I haven't done much, really. And having you guys over is a big help for me too.

I went to the bakery to buy some bread, but they gave me a lot extra. I thought I'd have to go give them out, but feel free to eat as much as you want.

They look delicious. I think I'll take one.

Isn't this one your favorite, Captain? Here you go. Which one do you want, Rukia?

............

Rukia, are you okay? You don't look so well.

Huh? Oh, uh... I'm sorry. I was just thinking.

You've been like that the whole day. Is everything all right?

I'm very sorry.

You don't have to apologize. Just tell us what's on your mind.

If it's something we can help with, feel free to talk to us about it. I mean, you don't have to, but...

Well, you see...

And I haven't seen Byakuya at home ever since. He wasn't there yesterday night or this morning.

I see.

I understand that the Zanpakuto Rebellion incident isn't completely over.

I'm worried for Byakuya. What if he's in trouble, trying to work things out on his own again?

............

I hope you get to talk to him soon.

Though, I may not be able to get a straight response even if I do see him in person.

But you can still try. I suggest asking him anyway.

Orihime...

Hmm. I have a feeling it's just timing. I know Captain Kuchiki is a very busy person.

Yeah, I haven't heard of any problems at Squad 6. There's nothing to be concerned about.

I truly hope so.

Cheer up! You're only going to get yourself depressed if you keep worrying.

If you're still having trouble even after we get back, then come to us and we can talk about it. Right, Captain?

I'm pretty sure it's nothing serious.

Captain Hitsugaya, Lieutenant Matsumoto...

*Beep* *Beep*

Ah!

Wow, can't they be a bit more considerate? Why does it have to go off now?

This isn't the time for that. Let's go!

Oh, Rukia!

What is it?

If there's anything I can do to help, I'll do whatever I can. Don't hesitate to talk to me.

It might not be easy for me to go to the Soul Society, but I'll ask Kisuke and rush over if you ever need me.

Thank you, Orihime.