Corridor's of Masanobu Manor
Jul 10, 2024 20:58:54 GMT -6
Post by Makino Tori on Jul 10, 2024 20:58:54 GMT -6
"Balancing Order in the Dark": (continued)
Makino had just returned from her efforts cleaning up the Soul Society, her steps lighter with the satisfaction of a job well done. Jiro, her constant companion, was with her. As they entered the house and started down the hall toward the kitchen, their laughter filled the air, a stark contrast to the night's tranquility.
Suddenly, Makino stopped mid-step. Jiro continued to chatter and move forward, oblivious. With swift precision, Makino grabbed his arm, pulling him to a halt beside her. "What—?" Jiro began, but his voice trailed off as he noticed the wide-eyed look on Makino's face.
Following her gaze, Jiro's eyes widened too. Down the hall, Kouen was approaching from the opposite direction, and behind him, the imposing figure of Captain Byakuya Kuchiki followed silently.
Both Makino and Jiro froze, instinctively stepping aside as Kouen and Byakuya drew nearer. Makino's eyes locked with Kouen's, seeking answers in his usually expressive face. Tonight, however, his expression was unreadable. She quickly lowered her eyes and bowed slightly to the Kuchiki head, her heart pounding. Neither man spoke as they passed.
Once they had moved on, Makino continued to watch them, her mind racing. She nudged Jiro, who still stood in shock.
"What!" Jiro exclaimed softly, rubbing his side where she had elbowed him. He looked back down the hall. "What do you think he's here for?"
"I don't know," Makino replied, her voice hushed with concern. "But let's hope it's nothing bad."
"Didn't Kouen and Kin have a job tonight?" Jiro's eyes widened with sudden realization. "You don't think they messed up, do you?!"
Makino scoffed, though worry etched her features. "Never!" She kept her eyes on the direction Kouen and Byakuya had gone. "Let's go listen." Her voice was urgent as she started toward the sitting room.
"Makino," Jiro whispered frantically, glancing around the hall. He quickly caught up with her. "If we get caught, I’m blaming you."
Makino shot him a dirty look. "Seriously? What do you mean 'we'? You got a mouse in your pocket?" She shook her head in disbelief. "If you get caught doing this, you need more training."
They crept forward, every step careful and quiet. The tension was palpable, the air thick with the weight of whatever business had brought Byakuya Kuchiki to their home in the dead of night. As they neared the sitting room, Makino's heart raced with a mix of fear and curiosity.
Moved