Fathers in White and Black 6/7 Bleach Bigbangfic
Title: Fathers in White and Black
Author: StarbearerTM
Beta: Nerdowl
Pairings: Isshin/Ryuuken, Ishida/Orihime, implied Rukia/Ichigo
Genre: Romance, yaoi, het
Rating: NC 17
Word count: 40,283
Warnings: M/M relationships, Het M/F, language, lemon
Summary: Two people who meet in college can hardly foretell where their futures would take them. Two decades later, two friends carry on a secret relationship that will soon become known to their families, but how do their sons relate to this?
Within the heart of the mall echoed the sound of hollows. Drawn like moths to a huge searchlight they headed towards the reiatsu of the two girls under the protection of the Quincy doctor. He frowned carrying both of the girls, one under either arm.
Eventually he put both of them down to face the wave of spirit pressure crashing towards him. He stood and set them down slowly, deciding that they would just keep rushing after him if he did not make a stand, albeit a reluctant one.
“Stay behind me,” he mumbled. “And keep your eyes shut.”
“I’m not stupid,” said Karin suddenly. “I know you’ve got powers. Just like…”
“Do you?” Ryuuken said. “Well then if you are so observant you will be sure to stand clear.”
Yuzu looked at Karin, blinking. “What are you talking about?”
“Just keep your eyes closed,” muttered Karin as she hugged Yuzu tightly.
Yuzu muttered, “I’m not stupid either.”
“Nobody is saying you are,” Karin murmured.
“But you’re always trying to hide things from me, as if I couldn’t handle them!” she half choked.
“Be quiet if you please! Now’s not the time to discuss such things,” mumbled Ryuuken to them both as he held out his arm. Karin saw the formation of a bow solidifying from a whitish blue glow. A spread of blue arrows emanated from the metallic curve sailing towards the oncoming hollow. Between half closed eyes, Yuzu spotted blue flashes.
Crunching herself close to her sister Yuzu waited for the worst to happen, and found that it didn’t. Still Karin held her tightly but the grip relaxed the slightest bit. The sound of nasty howling seemed to evaporate along with the crashing rumble of ruin. All that reached her ears was a silence full of promise. She opened her eyes to look up at her sister still frowning slightly but mumbling, “Are you ok?”
“I’m… I’m all right,” she murmured a bit shakily. Both sisters glanced at the back of their rescuer, his hand at his side the other dispelling his bow. Light flashed off Ryuuken’s glasses as he turned to both girls. He bent down the slightest bit and rested his hands on both their shoulders saying, “The threat has passed, and those trained to handle these emergencies have taken over.”
Karin’s eyes gleamed glancing up into the Quincy doctor’s though she did not smile. Instead that sarcastic tone in her voice was absent when she commented, “About time they showed up.”
“Wh… who? The firemen and medics?” Yuzu murmured, clinging tightly to her sister.
Immediately Ryuuken mumbled, “I suggest both of you tell me if you feel lightheaded, dizzy or feel pain in any way?”
His silver haired head ducked into place before their faces, scanning their eyes to see if their pupils were dilated, both girls guessed. Since they had worked at the clinic they knew what he was checking for. Taking their pulses and consulting his watch, or scanning them for any bruises. His hands moved brusquely over their scalps in search of any bumps or contusions. Karin noted that it felt impartial but she still tried to process what was going on.
“Young ladies, if you feel capable of walking, I strongly suggest we vacate the premises,” Ryuuken said to them, extending a hand to both of them.
Yuzu still shivered, clinging to Karin as tears pooled in her eyes. She whimpered, “I want tou-san!”
Karin took in great gulps of air as Ryuuken inhaled deeply. He struggled to think what Isshin would do before he bent down and slowly wrapped both girls in an awkward hug they compared to embracing a tree. Immediately he pulled back and said, “We need to leave now.”
To his surprise Yuzu still held tightly to him and Karin. Ryuuken shook his head and then bent down and picked up Yuzu without a second thought, not minding the death hold she gripped to his neck with. His arm wrapped around her bottom to hold her with one arm so he could extend the other to Karin handing her his cell phone.
She took it and quickly dialed her father mumbling, “I hope that old goat answers.”
“Follow me please,” Ryuuken said, reaching out to her once more. She took his hand and moved after him as he led them towards the nearby crews.
“He’s not answering,” she mumbled.
“I will be needed at the hospital,” he said quietly to them. “We will wait for him there. I suggest you call your brother.”
“All right,” muttered Karin, leaving a message for Isshin. She handed him back the cell phone and followed him as he took her by the hand again and they emerged from the area.
“You’re not one of them, but you’re something else,” whispered Karin quietly.
“I protect the living,” said Ryuuken crisply, his arms around both girls. “And they protect the dead. That is sufficient for your knowledge.”
Karin noticed the gleaming pendant that he had slung around his neck, from behind his tie. She recognized it from Ichigo’s friend Uryuu, and something clicked into place. Mouth close to his ear she muttered, “You’re a Quincy aren’t you?”
“Correct, even if I don’t wish to be saddled with such powers. I have no interest in them,” he murmured back to her as he pulled them along, carrying Yuzu in his arms with one hand while holding Karin’s tightly in his own.
“I didn’t want to see dead people either,” Karin said as she looked up at Ryuuken, his eyes hidden behind gleaming glasses.
“That gives us something in common does it not, young lady,” Ryuuken said as he squeezed her hand gently. “Who gets paid for dealing with the dead? When he has a family to provide for?”
“Oh,” muttered Karin quietly. “But you used those powers just now.”
“Must I repeat myself? Your father asked me to protect you, and that is precisely what I plan on doing, Karin,” said Ryuuken sternly, tugging her behind him to the shelter of another building. He felt Yuzu’s tears dripping down his neck soaking into his shirt.
Slowly he lowered the girl down as he crouched and Karin bit her lip. “I’ll take care of her,” she muttered.
“We’ll take care of her, young lady,” Ryuuken corrected her as he wrapped both arms around Yuzu and awkwardly tried to quiet her. Nudging in beside Ryuuken, Karin wrapped her arms around her sister and shushed her.
“C’mon, it will be ok. You’re a big girl. Stop crying,” Karin whispered.
“Young lady. You are safe,” Ryuuken mumbled, his words harsh but his voice filled with sincerity. “Your sister is right. I will take care of you till your father returns. You have my word.”
Yuzu’s lip quivered as she pulled back and looked at both with tear stained eyes. “Really?”
“Really,” Ryuuken said as he managed a tiny smile, something he didn’t normally do. “Now please take a few deep breaths and try to calm down. And give me a smile.”
Most of the EMTS recognized the man in the grey suit with the two girls in tow, and soon Ryuuken had the two girls in the back of an ambulance riding back to Karakura Hospital.
**
Ichigo burst into the hospital, suitably pissed as he ran to the reception desk and shouted, “Where are my sisters?”
“Sir if you please?”
“Shut up! Where are my sisters?” Ichigo shouted. “I’m Kurosaki Ichigo! My dad knows the director!”
One of the nearby doctors came over and said, “Please follow me, Kurosaki san. We’d been expecting you.”
Ichigo grumbled as he was motioned into the hospital, but to his surprise was led not to the ER but up a flight of stairs to an office. The door was opened revealing his two sisters sitting quietly on a sofa in the director’s office. With them was someone who looked like a medical professional of some kind and he guessed he should be glad that they weren’t alone.
“Ichi nii!” Karin shouted at the same time Yuzu cried, “Onii chan!”
“Karin… Yuzu… I’m here, don’t worry,” Ichigo said as he immediately wrapped them in an embrace. Both of them hugged him tightly as he sat down with them on either side. Ichigo seemed to be shaking as much as either of them.
“Onii chan… where is Tou-san?” murmured Yuzu.
“I can’t get a hold of him,” mumbled Ichigo quietly. “Diid Ryuuken bring you here?”
“Ryuuken Jii-san did,” mumbled Karin quietly. “But he’s doing his job. He told us to wait here till you came. Where’s Rukia neesan?”
“She’s handling things,” mumbled Ichigo quietly. “I’m sorry I wasn’t here… I…”
“It’s ok,” mumbled Karin quietly. “You had a job to do, right?”
“I’m going to take you two home,” muttered Ichigo. “This is no place for you two.”
“We should tell him first shouldn’t we?” mumbled Yuzu, poking her head up.
“Who?” Ichigo asked as he grabbed his sister’s hands and led them towards the door.
“Ryuuken Jii-san… was supposed to look after us,” said Yuzu shyly, in response to Ichigo’s frown.
Rubbing the back of his neck and sighing Ichigo replied, “I’m sure the old man has enough to do around here. I mean he IS the director of this hospital and there are a lot of people hurt.”
“I… I will inform him that you came to pick up the girls,” said the hospital worker quietly.
“Thanks,” Ichigo said as he led his sisters out. It wasn’t long before he called a taxi and took them both back to the Kurosaki clinic.
Waiting for them there was Rukia, with a grim look on her face. Both girls embraced her briefly, and she wrapped an arm around Yuzu without a word. Yuzu murmured, “Rukia nee.”
“I’ll get you a bath and help you get cleaned up ok?” Rukia murmured. Ichigo nodded to her.
Karin mumbled, “Ichi nii?”
“Why don’t you do the same? I’m going to check to see if I can get a hold of the old man and find out where the hell he is,” muttered Ichigo.
“All right,” mumbled Karin as she followed Rukia. Sighing Ichigo suppressed his desire to pound Isshin, saving it for when their father arrived.
His cell phone rang and he answered it, “Yeah?”
“Ichigo san, you got home safely I trust?” came Ryuuken’s analytical voice out of a background of dinging bells and hospital chatter.
“Yeah. Thanks for making sure they were safe,” said Ichigo quietly. “I just…”
“Spare me the speech about how you wished you were there to protect them,” said Ryuuken. “I was charged with their protection and they are fine.”
“Damn it!” shouted Ichigo. “Don’t give me that!”
“I know well what your priorities are,” said Ryuuken coldly. “It is obvious that your duties lie in dealing with the dead. You were the one who chose to put that priority over…”
“Shut up! You don’t know WHAT you’re talking about!” Ichigo yelled.
“Don’t I?” Ryuuken asked unfazed by Ichigo’s tirade.
“Don’t push my buttons. I’m their brother, not you!”
“Is that a threat?” asked Ryuuken. “Do you think for a moment that the safety of your family is not a concern of mine?”
“Why do you give a damn?” asked Ichigo coldly.
“Because I am involved with your father, that is why,” said Ryuuken. “And unlike you, your sisters are alive.”
“Yeah, out of duty because they’re along with the deal right?” Ichigo muttered. “Spare me.”
“Despite what you think or say, the reality is that I am involved. The fact that your father despite his many failings and idiocy entrusted me as their protector is a reality that irks you does it not?” Ryuuken said.
“You can’t take my place you asshole. Just don’t even go there!”
Ryuuken merely pushed up his glasses and sighed. “Name calling. How immature.”
Ichigo frowned. “Look. I’ m sorry I called you names, Ryuuken Jii-san. Thanks for protecting my sisters. But remember, you’ll never replace my mom. Maybe you’ll be some sort of step parent, but don’t you dare think you can…”
“Who’s making presumptions young man?” Ryuuken tisked. “Now if you will excuse me, I must get back to work.”
“Bye,” Ichigo mumbled. “You do that.”
He clicked off the phone once Ryuuken ended the call and sank to a sofa, his head in his hands. Fortunately the small clinic was closed, but millions of emotions ran rampant in his brain. So caught up was he in his stewing that he almost leapt a foot out of the sofa when Rukia’s hand rested on his shoulder.
“Don’t DO that!” he gasped.
“I’m not the one whose reiatsu sensing stinks,” Rukia said.
“That’s not funny,” Ichigo said grimly.
“Your sisters are in bed now. I thought you should know,” said Rukia quietly. “Ichigo don’t you dare blame yourself for this. “
“Why not? That old jerkass was the one babysitting them, and he had the nerve to give me shit about choices,” said Ichigo.
“What did he say?” asked Rukia. Ichigo told her.
“So basically I get that he’s saying that it’s my choice to be a substitute shinigami,” he said.
“He is right even if he is an ass,” said Rukia quietly. “I did tell you that you could leave things to the soul society once in a while.”
Ichigo’s brown eyes gleamed in understanding as he nodded. “So that’s why you told me to go to the hospital.”
“Exactly, idiot,” Rukia said. “Let Nii-sama handle this. Soul Society’s grateful you handled the immediate problem, but why else would I ask you to go find your sisters if we couldn’t handle things.”
“I know but…” he sighed.
“Look, Renji can handle things, and so can Nii-sama. Squad six is doing its part. So let’s just sit here and see what happens. And I’m telling you that we only have to worry about fighting hollows if they actually come here and attack this house.”
He sighed and looked up at her, conflict in his dark eyes because he could feel the clashing of spirit pressures from other shinigami battling and driving the problem away from Karakura town. She simply rolled her eyes, but then wrapped her arms around him from behind. Ichigo swallowed hard, and then turned to her. Only the knock at the door startled him, and he got up to answer it. To his surprise he saw Uryuu and Orihime standing there worriedly.
“What are you two doing here?” he asked.
“I came to see if you and your family were ok, Kurosaki kun,” muttered Orihime.
“We’re fine… thanks Inoue,” muttered Ichigo.
“Well are you going to invite us in, or stand there glaring daggers at us?” Uryuu asked.
“Come in,” mumbled Ichigo, not sure if he wanted company, but he didn’t want to be rude to Orihime. Right now he didn’t mind his friends coming over. It wasn’t long before Chad too showed up, and Ichigo was sitting in the kitchen with all of them. It didn’t escape his notice that his two classmates held hands.
Ichigo got up and found the kettle, then started to hunt for the tea. Fortunately Sado had beaten him to it and handed the canister to him. Both friends quietly took out food and set it aside on plates so they could have fuel for an awkward wait.
“You guys all didn’t have to come,’ Ichigo mumbled.
“Of course we did,’ Chad murmured softly. “Even you must be able to feel how thick this reiatsu is still…”
Her ear occupied by her soul pager, Rukia spoke softly on the phone with someone on the other end, no doubt involved in Soul Society. She saw Ichigo’s questioning look but Ichigo had gone to the phone and quickly dialed another number.
“Urahara’s shop? Sorry but we’re kinda busy right now,” said Jinta’s voice.
“Where’s Urahara san?” Ichigo asked.
“The boss isn’t here right now. Look carrot top, I know it’s you. He said if you called to tell you not to worry and just sit tight,” answered the boy.
“Just sit tight? What the hell IS Urahara doing?” Ichigo snapped.
“Taking care of the problem, what do you think?” Jinta snapped. “My boss isn’t just sitting and spinning you know! Look I gotta go!“
The sound of the phone clicking off caused Ichigo to jolt backwards slightly. Whirling around to his friends he muttered, “What if there are more hollows?”
He suddenly felt Chad’s hand on his shoulder guiding him back to sit down at the kitchen table. Glancing over at Rukia his eyes held a question.
“What other reason do you think we are here for?” asked Uryuu quietly. Ichigo’s head spun, making him wonder just what in the name of the world had been unleashed, who had unleashed it, or just what damage it may be doing. Though he suspected, no hoped, that it wasn’t anything to do with Aizen.
“So what is Soul Society saying to all this?” asked Ichigo once Rukia clicked off her phone.
“They say that you should still keep out of it. And that the matter’s being taken care of,” said Rukia.
“Let me guess that Hat and Clogs is part of it? Considering that he’s NOT at the store now?” Ichigo mumbled. “And forget calling my dad. He’s not answering his phone.”
Orihime reached over and squeezed Ichigo’s hand while Rukia took his other in hers. The Quincy sighed and pushed up his glasses looking at Ichigo. “Look, believe it or not I know what you are going through, even though I do not see why I am bothering to bring it up.”
“Since when did you share about your feelings?” Ichigo asked Uryuu, surprised the Quincy would even approach him.
“Well considering your sisters were in immediate danger I cannot blame you for being upset. Whatever babysitting arrangements your father made were hardly your fault were they till you could..”
“I’m surprised you didn’t know who was watching them,” Ichigo said, blinking at him.
“What do you mean?” asked Uryuu, confused especially at Ichigo’s laughter.
“No… c’mon are you SERIOUS?” Ichigo laughed, shaking his head at Uryuu.
“What do you mean Kurosaki kun?” asked Orihime letting go of Ichigo’s hand and moving towards Uryuu.
Rukia slapped Ichigo on the back of the head mumbling, “Idiot I don’t think he knows!”
“Knows what?” asked Uryuu, frustrated.
Still rubbing his head Ichigo said, “Didn’t you know your old man was watching my sisters? Seriously I know you said you two don’t talk much but that’s just crazy!”
Uryuu pushed himself away from the table, slowly rising to his feet. He spun around, not facing any of them. Orihime moved over to him as well as Chad but Ichigo remained where he was. He said nothing for a few minutes, figuring that his words were just now sinking in. Rukia’s sapphire gaze met his showing she understood that Ichigo knew how to read a mood far better than he sometimes let on.
“Uryuu?” muttered Chad reaching out to him but Uryuu gently removed his hand.
“Please Sado san, do not touch me right now,” he said softly, wandering towards the door.
“Ishida kun maybe you need some air?” said Orihime softly, her hand on the knob.
“You are correct,” muttered Uryuu as he stepped outside, however as he exited he held up a hand to stop Inoue from following.
“Okay you need time to yourself,” she said with a forced smile on her face. Immediately Chad’s hand rested on her shoulder giving it a reassuring squeeze. Ichigo only waited a few minutes before he got up and walked outside himself to see if Uryuu had wandered far.
**
With his back still to the clinic, Uryuu sat on the front steps staring off into the night. He had actually pulled out his damaged uniform that he stitched neatly. Always wanting to do something with his hands perhaps to hide his thinking.
“Sewing by streetlight?” Ichigo asked sitting next to him.
“Did they send you out to check on me?” Uryuu said flatly. “It’s really unnecessary. I am not going to irrationally go jump off a bridge.”
“I came out because I wanted to see if you were getting mauled by a hollow,” said Ichigo.
“As if that would hardly happen. Look, what Ryuuken does is hardly my concern. Whatever is going on between your father and he is not something I wish to know about. So please spare me…”
“Shut up and listen,” Ichigo said as he glared at Uryuu. “Don’t pretend you aren’t pissed off to find out!”
“You are the one who handles such news immaturely. I do not!” said Uryuu emphatically.
“Bullshit,” said Ichigo, as he glared at Uryuu. “How damn hard is it to stuff it down? C’mon Ishida I know we aren’t best buddies but we ARE friends right? And Rivals?”
“Rivals, but hardly close friends. The thought of Ryuuken becoming involved with your father makes me ill,” said Uryuu. “No offense to your father.”
“My old man would drive anyone nuts. Imagine how I felt huh?” Ichigo asked.
“It’s his life,” said Uryuu.
“How can you just sit there and say that! I don’t care WHAT you call him; he’s STIL your flesh and blood!” Ichigo said.
“You don’t know ANYTHING!” the Quincy snapped, as he whirled on Ichigo, shoving his sewing into his bag.
“Then TELL ME!” Ichigo snapped, grabbing him by the front of his shirt.
“Release me, Kurosaki or I shall…”
“Beat the shit out of me? Go right ahead. At least it’s better than your mister Spock act!” shouted Ichigo. “C’mon, be pissed off. FEEL something!”
“You don’t think I haven’t for years?” Uryuu said bitterly, face twisted into a scowl as he pushed Ichigo’s hands away. “Do you know what that man has put me through? And now acting in a paternal matter to someone ELSES children?”
“Is it the fact he’s hanging out with my sisters that’s bugging you?” asked Ichigo. “What do you care since you hardly ever speak to him anyway?”
“That’s NOT the point!” Uryuu snapped. “He’s an absolute bastard! Can you honestly say you want him around them?”
“They’re not easy to deal with,” Ichigo said. “I told that stiff if he hurt their feelings I’d rearrange his face. And my dad may be a dumbass but I figure that your old man would not act like an ass in front of girls.”
“Maybe so,” muttered Uryuu. “But the thought of it sickens me.”
“Because you don’t like the idea of two men together?” Ichigo asked.
“It’s not that,” said Uryuu. “I’m more open minded that the thought of two men in a gay relationship hardly fazes me or that the idea that Ryuuken may be bisexual but you can hardly think of your parents doing certain acts can you?”
“Ugh NO WAY!” Ichigo snapped holding his two hands in an X shape. “Who wants to imagine their parents doing the nasty?”
“And this is the same man who forbade me to have any contact with shinigami so that…” Uryuu
said bitterly, voice cracking.
“You’re worried that because he’s associating with my family since he probably knows I’m a shinigami…” said Ichigo quietly. “That he’s being a hypocrite.”
Uryuu nodded to this, fighting back the gleam of tears that threatened to form behind his glasses. He didn’t’ let them fall however. Sensing the tension Ichigo then queried, “Or are you going to throw up because you’re thinking you’d have to put up with me as a brother?”
Uryuu saw the gleam in Ichigo’s eyes and heard the sarcastic tone in his voice. He spun around and muttered, “Then I’d have a legitimate reason to beat your ass wouldn’t I?”
Just the hint of a laugh tinged Uryuu’s voice at that moment yet Ichigo could not see his eyes behind the light reflecting off those glasses. He dug in his pocket and pulled out some tissues, handing them to Uryuu saying, “Here, clean your glasses. They’re dirty.”
Uryuu accepted the tissues and removed his glasses to polish them. Still he sat with his back to Ichigo so that the other boy did not see his eyes without such shields. For a second Ichigo did glimpse Uryuu without them before he put them on again, remembering how Uryuu looked in the hospital those years ago during the Bount situation.
“I suppose I should be thankful you are nowhere near as insane as your father,” muttered Uryuu quietly. “But the thought of being in his proximity does not bother me to the extent of…”
“My sisters wouldn’t mind having another brother,” Ichigo said.
“Aren’t we presuming a good deal? I doubt Ryuuken is the sort who would set up house here when he has an apartment downtown within distance of the hospital,” Uryuu said as he shook his head.
“But the fact my dad and your dad are dating means that dad considers you part of the family already and you know he’ll have me drag you to dinner here, so you’ll have to be here like it or not,’ said Ichigo. “And you’ll have to swallow every crumb of Yuzu’s cooking.”
“This is so sweet, two men bonding as brothers, just as I hoped it would be!” said a voice that made them both whirl their heads around in unison like two cats watching a toy.
Uryuu and Ichigo both took a look at each other and Ichigo leapt up, kicking his father in the head hard enough to propel him into the tree. Uryuu’s hand flashed out and hit Isshin in the solar plexus hard enough o knock the wind from him.
“G… good job my boys,” said Isshin.
“I don’t even know what to say to you right now,’ muttered Uryuu, his voice wavering. Before he could say anything further he was enveloped in a huge bear hug by Isshin himself. At first Uryuu pushed against the embrace.
“You’re crushing my glasses,” he gasped. Ichigo rolled his eyes, doing nothing to stop his father’s embrace.
“Not only do I have another daughter, I have another son!” Isshin proclaimed as he squeezed Uryuu into a tight embrace, tears in his eyes.
“I… you cannot be serious… I…” Uryuu stammered out. Whatever control that came over him shattered with the breaking of his voice.
“Oi… wait a minute…” Ichigo said. “Dad…”
“You’re just as choked up and moved as I am,” Isshin said with stars in his eyes. “Truly he appreciates a bonding family moment.”
“Whatever Dad,” muttered Ichigo rolling his eyes. He guessed however that Uryuu wasn’t used to such treatment but welcomed it far more than he realized. Then he moved back to the house.
“Isshin… san…” muttered Uryuu, his face and eyes red from crying. “You do not realize what you are saying.”
Isshin pulled away and held onto Uryuu’s shoulders. Seeing the boy in tears hardly fazed him for he said, “go ahead and show me your manly tears of joy at this occasion…”
“That’s hardly… I mean… I… I am not accustomed to physical displays of affection,” muttered Uryuu, pulling off his glasses.
“Well get used to it,” Isshin said with a chuckle.
“Am I to understand that you intend a long term relationship with Ryuuken?”
“Ah ah, is that any way to address someone who’s your flesh and blood?”
“You don’t know anything!” Uryuu got out but Isshin continued to hold onto him.
“Maybe that’s so, but he is your father,” said Isshin quietly. “And while you may call him whatever in conversation… for the sake of family unity can you at least try to use a formal title?”
“You’ve no say in this, with all due respect,” Uryuu muttered as he glared up at Isshin.
“How… how can you just presume?”
Uryuu’s choking voice and glares of anger were swallowed up in another hug as Isshin refused to let go. “Maybe because I want to know,” he said quietly. “Maybe because you and that sour puss of a father of yours need it?”
At least this time Uryuu had removed his glasses so they were not crushed against the tall man’s chest. He saw that there were no spectators as he let this strange man and father of his rival embrace him as a son, and realized it was sincere. His own flesh and blood would never do such a thing but Isshin would. Not only was Isshin crazy, but he had a huge heart that was large enough for many.
Author: StarbearerTM
Beta: Nerdowl
Pairings: Isshin/Ryuuken, Ishida/Orihime, implied Rukia/Ichigo
Genre: Romance, yaoi, het
Rating: NC 17
Word count: 40,283
Warnings: M/M relationships, Het M/F, language, lemon
Summary: Two people who meet in college can hardly foretell where their futures would take them. Two decades later, two friends carry on a secret relationship that will soon become known to their families, but how do their sons relate to this?
Within the heart of the mall echoed the sound of hollows. Drawn like moths to a huge searchlight they headed towards the reiatsu of the two girls under the protection of the Quincy doctor. He frowned carrying both of the girls, one under either arm.
Eventually he put both of them down to face the wave of spirit pressure crashing towards him. He stood and set them down slowly, deciding that they would just keep rushing after him if he did not make a stand, albeit a reluctant one.
“Stay behind me,” he mumbled. “And keep your eyes shut.”
“I’m not stupid,” said Karin suddenly. “I know you’ve got powers. Just like…”
“Do you?” Ryuuken said. “Well then if you are so observant you will be sure to stand clear.”
Yuzu looked at Karin, blinking. “What are you talking about?”
“Just keep your eyes closed,” muttered Karin as she hugged Yuzu tightly.
Yuzu muttered, “I’m not stupid either.”
“Nobody is saying you are,” Karin murmured.
“But you’re always trying to hide things from me, as if I couldn’t handle them!” she half choked.
“Be quiet if you please! Now’s not the time to discuss such things,” mumbled Ryuuken to them both as he held out his arm. Karin saw the formation of a bow solidifying from a whitish blue glow. A spread of blue arrows emanated from the metallic curve sailing towards the oncoming hollow. Between half closed eyes, Yuzu spotted blue flashes.
Crunching herself close to her sister Yuzu waited for the worst to happen, and found that it didn’t. Still Karin held her tightly but the grip relaxed the slightest bit. The sound of nasty howling seemed to evaporate along with the crashing rumble of ruin. All that reached her ears was a silence full of promise. She opened her eyes to look up at her sister still frowning slightly but mumbling, “Are you ok?”
“I’m… I’m all right,” she murmured a bit shakily. Both sisters glanced at the back of their rescuer, his hand at his side the other dispelling his bow. Light flashed off Ryuuken’s glasses as he turned to both girls. He bent down the slightest bit and rested his hands on both their shoulders saying, “The threat has passed, and those trained to handle these emergencies have taken over.”
Karin’s eyes gleamed glancing up into the Quincy doctor’s though she did not smile. Instead that sarcastic tone in her voice was absent when she commented, “About time they showed up.”
“Wh… who? The firemen and medics?” Yuzu murmured, clinging tightly to her sister.
Immediately Ryuuken mumbled, “I suggest both of you tell me if you feel lightheaded, dizzy or feel pain in any way?”
His silver haired head ducked into place before their faces, scanning their eyes to see if their pupils were dilated, both girls guessed. Since they had worked at the clinic they knew what he was checking for. Taking their pulses and consulting his watch, or scanning them for any bruises. His hands moved brusquely over their scalps in search of any bumps or contusions. Karin noted that it felt impartial but she still tried to process what was going on.
“Young ladies, if you feel capable of walking, I strongly suggest we vacate the premises,” Ryuuken said to them, extending a hand to both of them.
Yuzu still shivered, clinging to Karin as tears pooled in her eyes. She whimpered, “I want tou-san!”
Karin took in great gulps of air as Ryuuken inhaled deeply. He struggled to think what Isshin would do before he bent down and slowly wrapped both girls in an awkward hug they compared to embracing a tree. Immediately he pulled back and said, “We need to leave now.”
To his surprise Yuzu still held tightly to him and Karin. Ryuuken shook his head and then bent down and picked up Yuzu without a second thought, not minding the death hold she gripped to his neck with. His arm wrapped around her bottom to hold her with one arm so he could extend the other to Karin handing her his cell phone.
She took it and quickly dialed her father mumbling, “I hope that old goat answers.”
“Follow me please,” Ryuuken said, reaching out to her once more. She took his hand and moved after him as he led them towards the nearby crews.
“He’s not answering,” she mumbled.
“I will be needed at the hospital,” he said quietly to them. “We will wait for him there. I suggest you call your brother.”
“All right,” muttered Karin, leaving a message for Isshin. She handed him back the cell phone and followed him as he took her by the hand again and they emerged from the area.
“You’re not one of them, but you’re something else,” whispered Karin quietly.
“I protect the living,” said Ryuuken crisply, his arms around both girls. “And they protect the dead. That is sufficient for your knowledge.”
Karin noticed the gleaming pendant that he had slung around his neck, from behind his tie. She recognized it from Ichigo’s friend Uryuu, and something clicked into place. Mouth close to his ear she muttered, “You’re a Quincy aren’t you?”
“Correct, even if I don’t wish to be saddled with such powers. I have no interest in them,” he murmured back to her as he pulled them along, carrying Yuzu in his arms with one hand while holding Karin’s tightly in his own.
“I didn’t want to see dead people either,” Karin said as she looked up at Ryuuken, his eyes hidden behind gleaming glasses.
“That gives us something in common does it not, young lady,” Ryuuken said as he squeezed her hand gently. “Who gets paid for dealing with the dead? When he has a family to provide for?”
“Oh,” muttered Karin quietly. “But you used those powers just now.”
“Must I repeat myself? Your father asked me to protect you, and that is precisely what I plan on doing, Karin,” said Ryuuken sternly, tugging her behind him to the shelter of another building. He felt Yuzu’s tears dripping down his neck soaking into his shirt.
Slowly he lowered the girl down as he crouched and Karin bit her lip. “I’ll take care of her,” she muttered.
“We’ll take care of her, young lady,” Ryuuken corrected her as he wrapped both arms around Yuzu and awkwardly tried to quiet her. Nudging in beside Ryuuken, Karin wrapped her arms around her sister and shushed her.
“C’mon, it will be ok. You’re a big girl. Stop crying,” Karin whispered.
“Young lady. You are safe,” Ryuuken mumbled, his words harsh but his voice filled with sincerity. “Your sister is right. I will take care of you till your father returns. You have my word.”
Yuzu’s lip quivered as she pulled back and looked at both with tear stained eyes. “Really?”
“Really,” Ryuuken said as he managed a tiny smile, something he didn’t normally do. “Now please take a few deep breaths and try to calm down. And give me a smile.”
Most of the EMTS recognized the man in the grey suit with the two girls in tow, and soon Ryuuken had the two girls in the back of an ambulance riding back to Karakura Hospital.
**
Ichigo burst into the hospital, suitably pissed as he ran to the reception desk and shouted, “Where are my sisters?”
“Sir if you please?”
“Shut up! Where are my sisters?” Ichigo shouted. “I’m Kurosaki Ichigo! My dad knows the director!”
One of the nearby doctors came over and said, “Please follow me, Kurosaki san. We’d been expecting you.”
Ichigo grumbled as he was motioned into the hospital, but to his surprise was led not to the ER but up a flight of stairs to an office. The door was opened revealing his two sisters sitting quietly on a sofa in the director’s office. With them was someone who looked like a medical professional of some kind and he guessed he should be glad that they weren’t alone.
“Ichi nii!” Karin shouted at the same time Yuzu cried, “Onii chan!”
“Karin… Yuzu… I’m here, don’t worry,” Ichigo said as he immediately wrapped them in an embrace. Both of them hugged him tightly as he sat down with them on either side. Ichigo seemed to be shaking as much as either of them.
“Onii chan… where is Tou-san?” murmured Yuzu.
“I can’t get a hold of him,” mumbled Ichigo quietly. “Diid Ryuuken bring you here?”
“Ryuuken Jii-san did,” mumbled Karin quietly. “But he’s doing his job. He told us to wait here till you came. Where’s Rukia neesan?”
“She’s handling things,” mumbled Ichigo quietly. “I’m sorry I wasn’t here… I…”
“It’s ok,” mumbled Karin quietly. “You had a job to do, right?”
“I’m going to take you two home,” muttered Ichigo. “This is no place for you two.”
“We should tell him first shouldn’t we?” mumbled Yuzu, poking her head up.
“Who?” Ichigo asked as he grabbed his sister’s hands and led them towards the door.
“Ryuuken Jii-san… was supposed to look after us,” said Yuzu shyly, in response to Ichigo’s frown.
Rubbing the back of his neck and sighing Ichigo replied, “I’m sure the old man has enough to do around here. I mean he IS the director of this hospital and there are a lot of people hurt.”
“I… I will inform him that you came to pick up the girls,” said the hospital worker quietly.
“Thanks,” Ichigo said as he led his sisters out. It wasn’t long before he called a taxi and took them both back to the Kurosaki clinic.
Waiting for them there was Rukia, with a grim look on her face. Both girls embraced her briefly, and she wrapped an arm around Yuzu without a word. Yuzu murmured, “Rukia nee.”
“I’ll get you a bath and help you get cleaned up ok?” Rukia murmured. Ichigo nodded to her.
Karin mumbled, “Ichi nii?”
“Why don’t you do the same? I’m going to check to see if I can get a hold of the old man and find out where the hell he is,” muttered Ichigo.
“All right,” mumbled Karin as she followed Rukia. Sighing Ichigo suppressed his desire to pound Isshin, saving it for when their father arrived.
His cell phone rang and he answered it, “Yeah?”
“Ichigo san, you got home safely I trust?” came Ryuuken’s analytical voice out of a background of dinging bells and hospital chatter.
“Yeah. Thanks for making sure they were safe,” said Ichigo quietly. “I just…”
“Spare me the speech about how you wished you were there to protect them,” said Ryuuken. “I was charged with their protection and they are fine.”
“Damn it!” shouted Ichigo. “Don’t give me that!”
“I know well what your priorities are,” said Ryuuken coldly. “It is obvious that your duties lie in dealing with the dead. You were the one who chose to put that priority over…”
“Shut up! You don’t know WHAT you’re talking about!” Ichigo yelled.
“Don’t I?” Ryuuken asked unfazed by Ichigo’s tirade.
“Don’t push my buttons. I’m their brother, not you!”
“Is that a threat?” asked Ryuuken. “Do you think for a moment that the safety of your family is not a concern of mine?”
“Why do you give a damn?” asked Ichigo coldly.
“Because I am involved with your father, that is why,” said Ryuuken. “And unlike you, your sisters are alive.”
“Yeah, out of duty because they’re along with the deal right?” Ichigo muttered. “Spare me.”
“Despite what you think or say, the reality is that I am involved. The fact that your father despite his many failings and idiocy entrusted me as their protector is a reality that irks you does it not?” Ryuuken said.
“You can’t take my place you asshole. Just don’t even go there!”
Ryuuken merely pushed up his glasses and sighed. “Name calling. How immature.”
Ichigo frowned. “Look. I’ m sorry I called you names, Ryuuken Jii-san. Thanks for protecting my sisters. But remember, you’ll never replace my mom. Maybe you’ll be some sort of step parent, but don’t you dare think you can…”
“Who’s making presumptions young man?” Ryuuken tisked. “Now if you will excuse me, I must get back to work.”
“Bye,” Ichigo mumbled. “You do that.”
He clicked off the phone once Ryuuken ended the call and sank to a sofa, his head in his hands. Fortunately the small clinic was closed, but millions of emotions ran rampant in his brain. So caught up was he in his stewing that he almost leapt a foot out of the sofa when Rukia’s hand rested on his shoulder.
“Don’t DO that!” he gasped.
“I’m not the one whose reiatsu sensing stinks,” Rukia said.
“That’s not funny,” Ichigo said grimly.
“Your sisters are in bed now. I thought you should know,” said Rukia quietly. “Ichigo don’t you dare blame yourself for this. “
“Why not? That old jerkass was the one babysitting them, and he had the nerve to give me shit about choices,” said Ichigo.
“What did he say?” asked Rukia. Ichigo told her.
“So basically I get that he’s saying that it’s my choice to be a substitute shinigami,” he said.
“He is right even if he is an ass,” said Rukia quietly. “I did tell you that you could leave things to the soul society once in a while.”
Ichigo’s brown eyes gleamed in understanding as he nodded. “So that’s why you told me to go to the hospital.”
“Exactly, idiot,” Rukia said. “Let Nii-sama handle this. Soul Society’s grateful you handled the immediate problem, but why else would I ask you to go find your sisters if we couldn’t handle things.”
“I know but…” he sighed.
“Look, Renji can handle things, and so can Nii-sama. Squad six is doing its part. So let’s just sit here and see what happens. And I’m telling you that we only have to worry about fighting hollows if they actually come here and attack this house.”
He sighed and looked up at her, conflict in his dark eyes because he could feel the clashing of spirit pressures from other shinigami battling and driving the problem away from Karakura town. She simply rolled her eyes, but then wrapped her arms around him from behind. Ichigo swallowed hard, and then turned to her. Only the knock at the door startled him, and he got up to answer it. To his surprise he saw Uryuu and Orihime standing there worriedly.
“What are you two doing here?” he asked.
“I came to see if you and your family were ok, Kurosaki kun,” muttered Orihime.
“We’re fine… thanks Inoue,” muttered Ichigo.
“Well are you going to invite us in, or stand there glaring daggers at us?” Uryuu asked.
“Come in,” mumbled Ichigo, not sure if he wanted company, but he didn’t want to be rude to Orihime. Right now he didn’t mind his friends coming over. It wasn’t long before Chad too showed up, and Ichigo was sitting in the kitchen with all of them. It didn’t escape his notice that his two classmates held hands.
Ichigo got up and found the kettle, then started to hunt for the tea. Fortunately Sado had beaten him to it and handed the canister to him. Both friends quietly took out food and set it aside on plates so they could have fuel for an awkward wait.
“You guys all didn’t have to come,’ Ichigo mumbled.
“Of course we did,’ Chad murmured softly. “Even you must be able to feel how thick this reiatsu is still…”
Her ear occupied by her soul pager, Rukia spoke softly on the phone with someone on the other end, no doubt involved in Soul Society. She saw Ichigo’s questioning look but Ichigo had gone to the phone and quickly dialed another number.
“Urahara’s shop? Sorry but we’re kinda busy right now,” said Jinta’s voice.
“Where’s Urahara san?” Ichigo asked.
“The boss isn’t here right now. Look carrot top, I know it’s you. He said if you called to tell you not to worry and just sit tight,” answered the boy.
“Just sit tight? What the hell IS Urahara doing?” Ichigo snapped.
“Taking care of the problem, what do you think?” Jinta snapped. “My boss isn’t just sitting and spinning you know! Look I gotta go!“
The sound of the phone clicking off caused Ichigo to jolt backwards slightly. Whirling around to his friends he muttered, “What if there are more hollows?”
He suddenly felt Chad’s hand on his shoulder guiding him back to sit down at the kitchen table. Glancing over at Rukia his eyes held a question.
“What other reason do you think we are here for?” asked Uryuu quietly. Ichigo’s head spun, making him wonder just what in the name of the world had been unleashed, who had unleashed it, or just what damage it may be doing. Though he suspected, no hoped, that it wasn’t anything to do with Aizen.
“So what is Soul Society saying to all this?” asked Ichigo once Rukia clicked off her phone.
“They say that you should still keep out of it. And that the matter’s being taken care of,” said Rukia.
“Let me guess that Hat and Clogs is part of it? Considering that he’s NOT at the store now?” Ichigo mumbled. “And forget calling my dad. He’s not answering his phone.”
Orihime reached over and squeezed Ichigo’s hand while Rukia took his other in hers. The Quincy sighed and pushed up his glasses looking at Ichigo. “Look, believe it or not I know what you are going through, even though I do not see why I am bothering to bring it up.”
“Since when did you share about your feelings?” Ichigo asked Uryuu, surprised the Quincy would even approach him.
“Well considering your sisters were in immediate danger I cannot blame you for being upset. Whatever babysitting arrangements your father made were hardly your fault were they till you could..”
“I’m surprised you didn’t know who was watching them,” Ichigo said, blinking at him.
“What do you mean?” asked Uryuu, confused especially at Ichigo’s laughter.
“No… c’mon are you SERIOUS?” Ichigo laughed, shaking his head at Uryuu.
“What do you mean Kurosaki kun?” asked Orihime letting go of Ichigo’s hand and moving towards Uryuu.
Rukia slapped Ichigo on the back of the head mumbling, “Idiot I don’t think he knows!”
“Knows what?” asked Uryuu, frustrated.
Still rubbing his head Ichigo said, “Didn’t you know your old man was watching my sisters? Seriously I know you said you two don’t talk much but that’s just crazy!”
Uryuu pushed himself away from the table, slowly rising to his feet. He spun around, not facing any of them. Orihime moved over to him as well as Chad but Ichigo remained where he was. He said nothing for a few minutes, figuring that his words were just now sinking in. Rukia’s sapphire gaze met his showing she understood that Ichigo knew how to read a mood far better than he sometimes let on.
“Uryuu?” muttered Chad reaching out to him but Uryuu gently removed his hand.
“Please Sado san, do not touch me right now,” he said softly, wandering towards the door.
“Ishida kun maybe you need some air?” said Orihime softly, her hand on the knob.
“You are correct,” muttered Uryuu as he stepped outside, however as he exited he held up a hand to stop Inoue from following.
“Okay you need time to yourself,” she said with a forced smile on her face. Immediately Chad’s hand rested on her shoulder giving it a reassuring squeeze. Ichigo only waited a few minutes before he got up and walked outside himself to see if Uryuu had wandered far.
**
With his back still to the clinic, Uryuu sat on the front steps staring off into the night. He had actually pulled out his damaged uniform that he stitched neatly. Always wanting to do something with his hands perhaps to hide his thinking.
“Sewing by streetlight?” Ichigo asked sitting next to him.
“Did they send you out to check on me?” Uryuu said flatly. “It’s really unnecessary. I am not going to irrationally go jump off a bridge.”
“I came out because I wanted to see if you were getting mauled by a hollow,” said Ichigo.
“As if that would hardly happen. Look, what Ryuuken does is hardly my concern. Whatever is going on between your father and he is not something I wish to know about. So please spare me…”
“Shut up and listen,” Ichigo said as he glared at Uryuu. “Don’t pretend you aren’t pissed off to find out!”
“You are the one who handles such news immaturely. I do not!” said Uryuu emphatically.
“Bullshit,” said Ichigo, as he glared at Uryuu. “How damn hard is it to stuff it down? C’mon Ishida I know we aren’t best buddies but we ARE friends right? And Rivals?”
“Rivals, but hardly close friends. The thought of Ryuuken becoming involved with your father makes me ill,” said Uryuu. “No offense to your father.”
“My old man would drive anyone nuts. Imagine how I felt huh?” Ichigo asked.
“It’s his life,” said Uryuu.
“How can you just sit there and say that! I don’t care WHAT you call him; he’s STIL your flesh and blood!” Ichigo said.
“You don’t know ANYTHING!” the Quincy snapped, as he whirled on Ichigo, shoving his sewing into his bag.
“Then TELL ME!” Ichigo snapped, grabbing him by the front of his shirt.
“Release me, Kurosaki or I shall…”
“Beat the shit out of me? Go right ahead. At least it’s better than your mister Spock act!” shouted Ichigo. “C’mon, be pissed off. FEEL something!”
“You don’t think I haven’t for years?” Uryuu said bitterly, face twisted into a scowl as he pushed Ichigo’s hands away. “Do you know what that man has put me through? And now acting in a paternal matter to someone ELSES children?”
“Is it the fact he’s hanging out with my sisters that’s bugging you?” asked Ichigo. “What do you care since you hardly ever speak to him anyway?”
“That’s NOT the point!” Uryuu snapped. “He’s an absolute bastard! Can you honestly say you want him around them?”
“They’re not easy to deal with,” Ichigo said. “I told that stiff if he hurt their feelings I’d rearrange his face. And my dad may be a dumbass but I figure that your old man would not act like an ass in front of girls.”
“Maybe so,” muttered Uryuu. “But the thought of it sickens me.”
“Because you don’t like the idea of two men together?” Ichigo asked.
“It’s not that,” said Uryuu. “I’m more open minded that the thought of two men in a gay relationship hardly fazes me or that the idea that Ryuuken may be bisexual but you can hardly think of your parents doing certain acts can you?”
“Ugh NO WAY!” Ichigo snapped holding his two hands in an X shape. “Who wants to imagine their parents doing the nasty?”
“And this is the same man who forbade me to have any contact with shinigami so that…” Uryuu
said bitterly, voice cracking.
“You’re worried that because he’s associating with my family since he probably knows I’m a shinigami…” said Ichigo quietly. “That he’s being a hypocrite.”
Uryuu nodded to this, fighting back the gleam of tears that threatened to form behind his glasses. He didn’t’ let them fall however. Sensing the tension Ichigo then queried, “Or are you going to throw up because you’re thinking you’d have to put up with me as a brother?”
Uryuu saw the gleam in Ichigo’s eyes and heard the sarcastic tone in his voice. He spun around and muttered, “Then I’d have a legitimate reason to beat your ass wouldn’t I?”
Just the hint of a laugh tinged Uryuu’s voice at that moment yet Ichigo could not see his eyes behind the light reflecting off those glasses. He dug in his pocket and pulled out some tissues, handing them to Uryuu saying, “Here, clean your glasses. They’re dirty.”
Uryuu accepted the tissues and removed his glasses to polish them. Still he sat with his back to Ichigo so that the other boy did not see his eyes without such shields. For a second Ichigo did glimpse Uryuu without them before he put them on again, remembering how Uryuu looked in the hospital those years ago during the Bount situation.
“I suppose I should be thankful you are nowhere near as insane as your father,” muttered Uryuu quietly. “But the thought of being in his proximity does not bother me to the extent of…”
“My sisters wouldn’t mind having another brother,” Ichigo said.
“Aren’t we presuming a good deal? I doubt Ryuuken is the sort who would set up house here when he has an apartment downtown within distance of the hospital,” Uryuu said as he shook his head.
“But the fact my dad and your dad are dating means that dad considers you part of the family already and you know he’ll have me drag you to dinner here, so you’ll have to be here like it or not,’ said Ichigo. “And you’ll have to swallow every crumb of Yuzu’s cooking.”
“This is so sweet, two men bonding as brothers, just as I hoped it would be!” said a voice that made them both whirl their heads around in unison like two cats watching a toy.
Uryuu and Ichigo both took a look at each other and Ichigo leapt up, kicking his father in the head hard enough to propel him into the tree. Uryuu’s hand flashed out and hit Isshin in the solar plexus hard enough o knock the wind from him.
“G… good job my boys,” said Isshin.
“I don’t even know what to say to you right now,’ muttered Uryuu, his voice wavering. Before he could say anything further he was enveloped in a huge bear hug by Isshin himself. At first Uryuu pushed against the embrace.
“You’re crushing my glasses,” he gasped. Ichigo rolled his eyes, doing nothing to stop his father’s embrace.
“Not only do I have another daughter, I have another son!” Isshin proclaimed as he squeezed Uryuu into a tight embrace, tears in his eyes.
“I… you cannot be serious… I…” Uryuu stammered out. Whatever control that came over him shattered with the breaking of his voice.
“Oi… wait a minute…” Ichigo said. “Dad…”
“You’re just as choked up and moved as I am,” Isshin said with stars in his eyes. “Truly he appreciates a bonding family moment.”
“Whatever Dad,” muttered Ichigo rolling his eyes. He guessed however that Uryuu wasn’t used to such treatment but welcomed it far more than he realized. Then he moved back to the house.
“Isshin… san…” muttered Uryuu, his face and eyes red from crying. “You do not realize what you are saying.”
Isshin pulled away and held onto Uryuu’s shoulders. Seeing the boy in tears hardly fazed him for he said, “go ahead and show me your manly tears of joy at this occasion…”
“That’s hardly… I mean… I… I am not accustomed to physical displays of affection,” muttered Uryuu, pulling off his glasses.
“Well get used to it,” Isshin said with a chuckle.
“Am I to understand that you intend a long term relationship with Ryuuken?”
“Ah ah, is that any way to address someone who’s your flesh and blood?”
“You don’t know anything!” Uryuu got out but Isshin continued to hold onto him.
“Maybe that’s so, but he is your father,” said Isshin quietly. “And while you may call him whatever in conversation… for the sake of family unity can you at least try to use a formal title?”
“You’ve no say in this, with all due respect,” Uryuu muttered as he glared up at Isshin.
“How… how can you just presume?”
Uryuu’s choking voice and glares of anger were swallowed up in another hug as Isshin refused to let go. “Maybe because I want to know,” he said quietly. “Maybe because you and that sour puss of a father of yours need it?”
At least this time Uryuu had removed his glasses so they were not crushed against the tall man’s chest. He saw that there were no spectators as he let this strange man and father of his rival embrace him as a son, and realized it was sincere. His own flesh and blood would never do such a thing but Isshin would. Not only was Isshin crazy, but he had a huge heart that was large enough for many.