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With Nemu as a success, Kurotsuchi Mayuri stated that the Humanoid Division would begin a new project. When the humanoids are released to the public, two subunits would be incorporated. The Lover Department and the Labor Department. Hisagi almost choked on his coffee when he heard the first sub unit's name. The Lover Department would contain humanoids made for physical pleasure and the Labor Department would contain humanoids created for manual labor. Kurotsuchi Mayuri stated that many customers would pay for a lover humanoid to fulfill their sexual desires and the labor humanoids would be purchased for construction workers or other labor jobs that companies could buy, without having to pay their employees or worry about injury. Hisagi hated the idea. If more humanoids were created for these two purposes, then the humanoids would be seen as nothing more than machines made for people to play with.
"Sir, I seriously believe that selling humanoids is a bad idea," stated Hisagi to Kurotsuchi Mayuri.
"You do realize that this is the reason they were created, insect?" Responded Kurotsuchi, as he ignored the young scientist by looking through files. "Horses were used for transportation for hundreds of years, dogs and cats are used as domesticated pets, and cows for feeding purposes. Species that are not human are used by humans."
"Sir, after studying Nemu for almost three years, I know that she is capable of more than book smarts and orders given to her. Sir, she is capable of human emotions!" defended Hisagi.
"Nonsense. If that were true, why does she continue to keep a stoic face? Human beings are the only known species capable of human emotions. Animals do not have them and neither do insects. So why should humanoids posses such things? They may look human, but they are not human. What sets us apart from them is not only the increased amounts of elements in their bodies, but also the rock in their chest," declared the ugly scientist.
"But sir-"
"They are not human and therefore, should not be treated as such," interrupted his boss. "As of now, we will begin on Humanoid Number 2."
Hisagi was removed from his boss' office before he could cause more havoc. The tattooed scientist was frustrated with himself. Not only did he feel stupid that he couldn't convince his boss to stop the project, but he also felt pained that another humanoid would be created.
What will happen to this one? thought Hisagi as he rubbed his temple.
------
"This time we're going to try something a little different," said Szayel to the employees. "We're going to throw in a microchip with the ingredients."
The employees bowed, obeying the Vice President's command.
"A microchip? Why a microchip?" asked Hisagi, weirded out by the statement.
"Perhaps," said Kurotsuchi Mayuri. "With this small microchip, it might give the humanoid instant information and it will be able to learn faster than the other one."
Hisagi clenched his fists when he heard his boss refer to Nemu as 'the other one.' Hisagi held back as he watched the scientists pour the elements, blood, part of his skin, a small microchip, and finally the rock, into the water-filled tank. Hisagi hoped the creation of a humanoid was a one-time miracle, but he was mistaken. In less than a minute, the process began. With the floating rock and revolving elements, the skin began to replicate itself. Only this time, as the limbs began to grow, Hisagi noticed that they were more toned and muscular than Nemu's arms and legs. In fact, even the chest was toned.
It's male, thought Hisagi as he observed the evolving humanoid.
As its facial features began to even out, its hair, like Nemu's grew super long (reaching below its bottom) was black. The humanoid male automatically wrapped itself in the fetal position when its 'birth' was complete. The scientists read the data aloud, stating that everything was normal and like Nemu, the male was infertile. As a bonus, the microchip seemed to have planted itself in the middle of the brain.
"Perhaps humanoids cannot procreate," whispered Szayel to Kurotsuchi Mayuri.
"We might have to prove this with more humanoids to come," responded Kurotsuchi.
Hisagi looked at the boy in the tank.
I wonder what we'll name this one? thought the tattooed scientist.
Hisagi's thoughts were interrupted when the computer screen began blinking. Turning his attention towards it, he realized it said 'Eject.'
"EJECT?!" shouted Hisagi, bewildered.
"Who pushed the eject button?!" shouted Kurotsuchi Mayuri.
"I'm sorry!" piped a scientist.
"You despicable insect! Do you realize what you have-"
The tank's water began to bubble and soon, a door at the bottom of the tank opened, spitting out the humanoid along with gallons of water. Hisagi rushed to the humanoid on the ground and turned him over on his back. His eyes were closed and he wasn't breathing.
"You insignificant worm!" shouted Szayel to the scientist, who had released the humanoid. "The humanoid needs at least a day in the tank before being ejected! This one might be dead!"
Hisagi was freaking out. Not only was the humanoid released prematurely, but it looked like his hair was changing color!
"The early exposure to oxygen must be the reason its hair is changing color! It's turning orange!" shouted Kurotsuchi Mayuri.
Hisagi saw that the orange had finally reached the top of the humanoid's spiky hair. Helplessly, Hisagi began to perform CPR, by continuously pressing down on the humanoid's chest. After about forty compressions, he thought about giving up, but he suddenly felt the humanoid twitch. Hisagi performed twenty more compressions until finally, the humanoid began coughing up water. He clenched his fists as he breathed heavily. Hisagi removed his lab coat and wrapped it around the naked humanoid. All the scientists in the room stared at the tattooed scientist and humanoid in shock. It survived. The orange-haired creation rapidly began to move his amber eyes around, as it took in his surroundings. Hisagi petted the humanoid's long orange hair, as if to congratulate him on surviving.
------
"Nemu-chan, this is your new baby brother," said Hisagi as he presented the male.
The scientists decided to perform tests the next day. For now, they gave the orange-haired humanoid patient's clothes and he would remain in the white room with Nemu. Nemu smiled and neared her little brother. He stared at her curiously. Nemu touched his long orange hair and smiled.
"Are you sure he's not my baby sister?" giggled Nemu.
Hisagi chuckled.
"Yeah, we have to do something about his hair," he said.
The orange-haired humanoid looked at them, confused.
"What is his name?" asked Nemu.
"Actually, he doesn't have one," muttered the scientist. "Kurotsuchi said he would be referred to as #2."
Nemu frowned.
"Yeah, it irks me too," he responded.
"Why don't we give him one?" she asked innocently.
"Well, we'll give him a temporary one for now," said Hisagi.
Nemu chuckled as she said, "How about 二 (Ni)?
"Ni?" asked Hisagi, confused.
Nemu held up two fingers.
"Oh! Ni!" chuckled Hisagi. "Sure thing."
"Little one," said Nemu to the confused humanoid. "For now on, we shall call you Ni."
------
'Ni' as Hisagi and Nemu referred to him as, had tests run on him the next day. Unlike Nemu however, when asked simple questions, he would raise or lower his hand in yes or no questions.
"It must be the microchip. It's helping him learn faster," stated one of the scientists performing tests on him.
Ni's long hair was cut later on that day, now becoming a short spiky orange. Some of the scientists questioned if someone was willing to buy an odd-haired humanoid. After hearing that statement, Hisagi realized that he had forgotten Ni was to be sold. He felt horrible and even worse when he broke the news to Nemu. Her eyes widened and began to glisten as she looked at Ni. Soon, tears began to fall down her cheeks. Hisagi never thought he would see or wish to see Nemu cry. Tears continued to fall down her shocked face, that it almost made him want to cry. Nemu usually had a stoic face and to see her smile was heaven for the scientist. He never wanted to make her cry. Suddenly, Hisagi saw Ni move his hand forward. The orange-haired humanoid touched the bottom of his sister's eye, catching a tear on his thumb. He looked at it in curiosity and Nemu stared at the tear as well. Ni looked back at her and wiped both her eyes. Nemu thrust herself forward and hugged her little brother. Ni laid on his bed, frozen. However, he soon wrapped his arms around her. Hisagi sighed in sadness and frustration.
Why does it have to be like this?
------
"Hisagi-san!" piped a scientist, fretting.
“Hm?” muttered Hisagi, finishing off his sprinkled donut.
“We can’t find Kurotsuchi Nemu!”
The tattooed scientist almost choked on his donut.
“What?!”
“We’ve searched everywhere, but we can’t find her!”
Ni, who was sitting on a chair while other scientists performed tests on him, looked at his co-creator, confused.
“Uh, don’t worry creation. Nothing’s wrong-”
“Insect!”
Hisagi cringed at the sound of his boss’ angry voice. Hisagi knew he was pissed now that he lost his ‘daughter.’ Turning around, ready to face his anger, he opened his eyes. The scene in front of him, however, shocked him. Kurotsuchi Mayuri was holding Nemu by the neck. His boss looked infuriated as he threw Nemu to the floor. Nemu raised her head up and Hisagi almost felt his vision go red. Nemu had a blackened eye, a split lip, and blood coming out of her mouth. Hisagi rushed towards her.
“This bitch actually believes she can convince me?! Who does she think created her? Who is the one who graciously replaces her Kurosium? Yet she believes she has the audacity to be greedy and demand that Number 2 be kept for her own selfish reasons, rather than to be sold?!” yelled Kurotsuchi Mayuri as he gave Nemu a hard kick in the back.
Hisagi was about to attack his boss, but someone beat him to it. A flash of orange rushed past him and punched Kurotsuchi Mayuri’s face. Hisagi watched in shock as Ni continuously punched his boss mercilessly. Several scientists rushed towards the humanoid, attempting to pull him off their boss, but Ni was too strong and pushed them off. It wasn’t until a scientist with a white cloth, lathered in a knockout drug, covered Ni’s nose, rendering him unconscious. Hisagi held Nemu closely as the other scientists dragged Ni away. Kurotsuchi Mayuri spat out some blood and a tooth. He smiled maniacally as he watched the humanoid being dragged away. Slowly, he rose up from the floor, trying not to lose his balance.
“Interesting. Write down that it attacks when provoked,” responded the alien-like scientist.
Hisagi glared at his boss as he left the room. The other scientists deemed Ni to be locked in the white room until further notice. Hisagi treated Nemu’s injuries in that room later in the day.
“Why did you do that Nemu-chan?” he asked as he finished stitching her lip.
Nemu kept a poker face, but her attention shifted to her sleeping brother, in his bed that she had moved next to hers. Her hand roamed through his orange locks.
“I didn’t want to lose him,” she responded.
Hisagi sighed as he looked at the two.
Why do we have to sell Ni?
------
“Nee-san, what are you reading?” asked the orange-haired humanoid.
“A manga called Death Note, Ni-kun,” responded Nemu to her younger brother.
It had been a year since Ni’s creation. Ni, in many scientists opinion, showed faster results in less than a few months compared to Nemu. The microchip implant as a success. With data overflowing the folders, Kurotsuchi Mayuri stated that the next humanoids would have microchips as well. As an added note, with Ni’s rapid advancement, he was now ready to be auctioned. However, since Ni was the first humanoid in the Lover department, he would first be given to a willing female, who would answer a questionnaire of qualities she found attractive in a man. Once she submitted the questionnaire, the qualities would be embedded into the microchip for him to follow. This female participant would only have Ni for a limited time, i.e. 11 months. If he was a success, more lover humanoids were to be created. If he was a failure, tests would have to restart from Step 1. Surprisingly, Nemu was ordered to go out and find a willing participant. As a precaution, Nemu would appear to be selling Kurotsuchi products and she was told not to reveal too much information about the humanoids. Nemu didn’t want to do this. She loved her brother dearly and wished to continue their nights reading or drawing, but she had no choice. Wearing a simple black dress with her hair braided and a handbag full of Kurotsuchi products, Hisagi led her out.
“Don’t stay out too late. I don’t want any weirdos attacking you,” he said concerned.
Nemu bowed, “Don’t worry Hisagi-san. I know how to defend myself after reading that self defense book you gave to Ni-kun,” she said, smiling.
“Just be careful,” he said as he ruffled her hair.
Nemu left the building. She stilled remembered the route Hisagi took her the first time she went out. This would be the second time she would be out of the building. She felt sad that Ni hadn't been out of the lab and would only be able to, once he was given away. Nemu continued to appear with a stoic face even though conflicted feelings were running through her head. Before she could even notice what was going on, she bumped into a lady. It was the perfect opportunity to convince her about purchasing Ni, but Nemu did not like the lady. The woman huffed in frustration at the humanoid, saying she ruined her make-up. To fix her blunder, Nemu asked if she would like to buy cosmetics from Kurotsuchi Businesses. The woman's face lit up and she complied. As soon as she left, Nemu was glad her baby brother wasn't going to be sold to that witch.
Don't worry Ni-kun, thought Nemu as she walked. I'll find a good person for you.
Nemu's statement was easier said than done. Five women out of the whole day either acted like her first customer or they weren't interested in any products whatsoever. Nemu sighed and decided to sit down on a park bench. The Sakura trees were in season again, just like the last time. Watching the trees, she noticed that there was a couple, cuddling under one. In fact there seemed to be a lot of couples out today.
What's today's date? thought Nemu. February 12th, right?
That meant almost two days until Valentine's Day.
I believe Hisagi-san said that the holiday is a couple's holiday. And if I remember correctly, girls give chocolate to their friends and boyfriends. Strange holiday.
Nemu looked around, with her vision still being greeted by couples.
I can't ask any of these girls if they would be interested in a lover, thought Nemu, sighing.
Yet, out of the corner of her eye, barely missing her, Nemu saw her. A lone high school girl, walking into the park. Nemu noticed that she was short in size, had black hair that extended to her shoulders, and she had amethyst eyes, big and bright. She looked slightly annoyed and frustrated as she walked past the couples with her grocery bag. Yet, there was something about her that Nemu couldn't name. Something that seemed to shine within her, saying that she could be trusted.
"Is anything wrong Miss?" asked Nemu to the high schooler.
The amethyst-eyed girl turned to see who was talking to her.
"Oh no ma'am. I'm okay," she responded reassuringly.
A kind response for once, thought Nemu, remembering her other rude customers.
"Are you sure Miss?" asked the humanoid.
"Yes, I'm quite sur-"
One of the tree branches behind the girl cut a hole in her shopping bag, causing all of her cooking supplies to fall out.
"Aw man," whinnied the high schooler, facepalming.
Quite clumsy, thought Nemu.
"Here, let me help you Miss," she said as she bent down to pick up the fallen contents.
"Thank you," said the petite girl as she bent down.
As Nemu helped her store her groceries in her schoolbag, she noticed that the cooking supplies were meant for baking chocolate.
Oh dear, perhaps she has a boyfriend, thought Nemu, despondently. I don't believe I'll be able to ask her now.
"Thank you Miss, uh-" stuttered the girl, not knowing the humanoid's name.
"Nemu. Kurotsuchi Nemu," she responded stoically.
It wasn't until a second later that she realized she shouldn't have told the teenager her full name. Kurotsuchi Mayuri had no family records released to the public and stating that her surname was Kurotsuchi, caused her to mentally slapped herself for her stupidity.
"Kurotsuchi. As in Kurotsuchi Businesses that sells almost all types of products from make-up to cars?!" exclaimed the raven-haired girl on stupor.
Oh dear, thought Nemu, freaking out. Maybe it's best if I simply answer with the truth rather than deny it.
"Yes Miss. Kurotsuchi Mayuri is my father," she said with an indifferent face.
"Oh my goodness, it's an honor Kurotsuchi-sama!" said the high schooler, fumbling with her bag as she bowed.
"Thank you Miss," said Nemu stoically.
I must change the subject quickly.
"Are you going to make chocolate for your boyfriend?" she asked.
The statement seemed to catch the girl off guard.
"Huh?" she said.
"Well, I noticed that your shopping bag contained chocolate and baking supplies."
"Oh no. Not really," she answered, slightly despondent.
Perhaps she wishes to give chocolate to a boy or maybe she's having troubles with her boyfriend, thought Nemu. Maybe she is not meant to have my brother.
"Oh, okay. But would you be interested in these new beauty products that will capture any man's heart?" asked Nemu with a straight face, holding advertisement fliers from her bag.
Perhaps I can mend the relationship.
"Uh, no thank you," she said, shaking her head.
"Are you sure? We have vitamins that make your hair grow longer and pills that help your breasts get bigger," she responded by taking the products out of her bag.
Hisagi-san told me most men prefer bigger physical aspects in women.
"Uh, no. I think I'll be going now. It was nice meeting you," said the girl trying to leave.
I might get in trouble with Kurotsuchi-sama if I don't sell at least one more product.
"Wait ma'am! Isn't there anything you would really want?" asked Nemu.
The girl huffed and said, "Fine, I want a boyfriend."
The girl must have realized her mistake because her face turned from annoyed to embarrassed. Nemu knew in that moment, that this girl was perfect for her brother.
"Oh. Well consider it done ma'am," said Nemu as she put her other products away in the bag.
"Huh?" questioned the high school girl.
Nemu took out the small business card with the private website for the survey and gave it to her.
"Go to this website and you'll find what you're looking for," she said bowing.
As the amethyst-eyed girl read the card, Nemu quickly ran away, back to Kurotsuchi Businesses. When she returned, she told Hisagi that she gave the card to a high school girl.
"A high schooler?!" he asked, surprised.
"Yes," she responded bluntly.
"I'm not sure if we're supposed to entrust Ni to a high schooler, but she was the only one interested in a lover," he said shrugging. "The only thing we have to worry about is if she'll take this survey seriously. For now, good work Nemu-chan," he stated.
Nemu gave him a small smile, before returning to the white room. Hisagi sighed as he sat down on his chair.
Kurotsuchi didn't want to name Ni and he even said the customer might name him, thought Hisagi as he stared at the ceiling. If this girl gets him, she better not give him a plain name.
------
The next day, Hisagi and the other scientists reviewed the results the girl filled out on the survey. Her name was Kuchiki Rukia. Her wishes in a man were all listed on the screen, so Ni was seated next to the large computer.
"Good thing she typed in orange hair creation Ni," stated Hisagi as he attached a wired cap to the humanoid's head. "Otherwise, we'd have to dye your hair."
Ni snorted.
"This cap is going to program the qualities into that microchip in your brain," affirmed the tattooed scientist as he walked to the keyboard.
Plus I added an extra quality for her enjoyment, he thought, smiling pervertedly. He was created to be the perfect lover.
"Is this gonna hurt?" asked Ni, trying to look at the wired cap on his head.
Nemu stood beside her brother, looking at the co-creator, concerned.
"Well, you might feel a little shock, but don't worry. The qualities going into the microchip take no more than a minute!" he said, trying to calm down both humanoids.
Hisagi typed in three codes, allowing a progress bar to appear on the screen. Ni felt himself blank out for a moment until a sudden shock brought him back to his senses.
"Ow," he said as he rubbed head.
"See. Barely even took 30 seconds," stated Hisagi as he took the wired cap off Ni.
"Does it hurt, Ni-kun?" asked Nemu, with worry etched on her face.
"No, I'm fine Nee-san," he said, not wishing to worry his sister.
"Those qualities won't kick in until you're delivered to Kuchiki Rukia, Creation Ni," said Hisagi, walking back to the keyboard.
When he came back, he held a small piece of tape in his fingers.
"This is a synthetic body heat sensor, creation," said Hisagi as he showed him the small piece of tape. "When I put this on your bottom lip, it will painlessly sink in."
"Why do I need it co-creator?" he asked.
"Tomorrow, when we send you to Kuchiki Rukia's house, you're going to be asleep. You'll only wake up when she kisses you. When she does, the tape will implant her body heat into the microchip so you'll recognize her as your lover."
"Okay," responded the orange-haired humanoid as his co-creator put the tape on his bottom lip.
"I'm surprised you're perfectly calm with this," said the scientist.
Then again, he hasn't fully retained human emotions like Nemu, he thought as he watched the tape dissolve.
"Now that that's done, no more testing today!"
Nemu squeezed Ni's hand and led him to their white room.
"Let's finish reading The Sign of Four, Ni-kun. Before you...have to leave," whispered Nemu somberly.
Ni gave his older sister a small smile.
------
"Kurotsuchi-sama said these two injections need to be administered to the humanoid," stated a scientist holding two shots.
It was the day Ni was to be delivered to Kuchiki Rukia, and Hisagi was listening to the messenger scientist his boss sent him. As Hisagi looked at the injections, he noticed that one was a bright blue, while the other was a bright purple.
"The blue injection needs to be administered first because it puts the humanoid in a state of rest. The purple injection needs to be administered last and most importantly, in the temple."
"Wait. Why?" interrupted Hisagi.
"The purple injection will erase its memories from the lab. We need this as a precaution just in case it begins to talk about classified information about the Humanoids Division," stated the scientist as he gave the shots to Hisagi.
"So he just forgets everything?" asked Hisagi, shocked.
"Yes, why?"
"W-Well, I'm just wondering if we administer the second one, will it affect his memories on language and mannerisms?" covered up Hisagi.
"It still has the microchip in its brain, so it shouldn't forget," said the scientist.
"Alright," responded Hisagi.
When the scientist left, Hisagi pocketed the blue injection and hid the purple one behind his hand. Out of the corner of his eyes, he saw the security cameras positions and the other scientists, too absorbed in their own work. Carefully, he walked over to the sink and turned it on. As he placed his hands in the water, from behind his hand, he quickly ejected the purple liquid into the water, draining it away. Once he disposed the needle, the bell rang, indicating that it was one in the afternoon, aka, lunch break. Once the other scientists left, Hisagi quickly ran to the white room.
"Guys," he said as he opened the door. "I need you out, now."
The humanoids exited their room and followed the tattooed scientist. Hisagi took out a large cardboard box that read Kurotsuchi Products and dragged it to the corner of the lab, where the security cameras couldn't see them.
"Is this what I get into?" asked Ni, staring at the large cardboard box.
"Yeah. I want you in there now because if I wait until the other scientists get back, I would have to do something I don't want to do," said Hisagi.
The manual and certificate are already in there, and, oh wait.
"I can't have you leaving in a patient's outfit, creation. So, I'm giving you a pair of my jeans," he said, handing him clothing from a bag.
Ni quickly slipped into the pants and took off the patient's clothing.
"Nemu-chan, in this letter, write a thank you card to Kuchiki Rukia. Give her instructions and tell her we'll come to her house on a few days to check on him. Oh, and tell her I added an extra quality for free," said the scientist as he handed her a letter and envelope.
Nemu quickly began to write as Ni placed himself within the box.
"We'll come see you in a few days creation. Until then, don't reveal anything about us or the Humanoids Division to Kuchiki Rukia. Act like you're new to the world," said Hisagi as he prepared the blue injection. "Plus, she might give you a new name."
Ni nodded. Nemu, who had finished writing, sealed the envelope and handed it to her little brother.
"Ni-kun," said the elder sister as she stroked his hair for the last time. "Don't worry. I know this girl is the one for you."
Ni looked at her, slightly confused.
"I'm going to miss you little one," she whispered as she gave him a small kiss on the forehead.
Ni gave her a small smile.
"I'll see you soon, Nee-san," he said.
Hisagi bent down to the floor and carefully inserted the blue liquid into the Ni's arm.
"See ya, Ni," said the scientist, before the humanoid fell into a deep slumber.
------
After three days since Ni's delivery, meeting Kuchiki Rukia (who had renamed him Ichigo), the results of progression were accounted for. To Hisagi, Kuchiki Rukia was trustworthy, even though he had to tell her a few lies about the humanoids. Somehow, he also managed to convince his boss to allow Nemu to go with him.
"Hisagi-san," said a scientist. "Kurotsuchi-sama and Granz-sama want to begin the process for the next humanoid!"
"What?!" exclaimed Hisagi. "It's only been three days since we've released Ichi- I mean, Number 2 out of the lab."
"Kurotsuchi-sama says since we've released a male humanoid for results, it is only fitting that we create a female for the lover department for results as well."
It's still too fast. What the hell is he thinking? thought Hisagi. This project is developing faster than anticipated.
------
"We are running out of your skin tissue, insect," stated Kurotsuchi Mayuri as the other scientists began filling the tank.
"With all due respect sir," said Hisagi, holding back his irritation. "Are you sure we should be creating a third humanoid this quickly, when Number 2 has only been out of the lab for a few days?"
"We will be receiving results from the female participant. If we wish to create both male and female lover humanoids, we need results from both," said the hideous scientist. "Moreover, quit fretting. In science, you have to take risks. Whether they are dangerous or not."
"Sir, how will we even know this one will be female? It could become male," said Hisagi.
"Whether it's male or female, we will still send it out," he responded.
As the creation process began, Hisagi paid attention to the limbs forming. Agile and strong arms and legs grew, as well as a curvy torso and breasts.
Female, thought Hisagi as he watched the same long black hair grow. Since they have some of my DNA, that must be why their hair starts out black.
As usual, the scientists read the data for the humanoid, stating that everything was functioning normally, her microchip was in the center of her brain, and she was infertile.
"After three successful humanoids, with data to back this up, it's safe to say that all humanoids are created infertile," stated Szayel to Kurotsuchi Mayuri.
"Shame," said Kurotsuchi Mayuri. "If humanoids could produce offspring with humans, it would have been fascinating to dissect and study them."
It took a lot of willpower for Hisagi not to punch his boss at that comment.
"Before we forget," said Szayel.
He motioned for a scientist to come forward.
"Open the top of the tank, grab a strand of its hair, and expose it to oxygen," he ordered.
"Why are you exposing her hair to oxygen this early?" asked Hisagi confused.
"Since Number 2's hair was exposed to oxygen early, it's hair turned orange. I wonder if the same result will happen," said Kurotsuchi Mayuri.
The scientists watched as the employee climbed up a ladder to the top of the tank, opening it. With wooden tongs, the employee grabbed some of the humanoid's hair and brought it out of the water. Instantly, the long hair began to change from jet black to teal green.
"Interesting," said Hisagi's boss. "Green rather than orange."
------
"Neliel Tu Oderschvank," stated Nemu as she gently combed her new baby sister's hair. "Nel for short."
Hisagi smiled as he watched Nemu automatically become a caring big sister to the new, silver-eyed humanoid. While Number 3, as Kurotsuchi Mayuri referred to her as, had been taken out of the tank after a day and studied the rest of the day, the end of the day was always reserved for Nemu to bond with her new siblings.
"Sounds Germanic," he said as he observed the two. "But it fits."
Nel, like her brother Ichigo, began showing quick advancement and in less than two weeks, she began speaking. It was a bit difficult at first for Nel because she spoke like a child, using phrases like, "Ya over dooed it," or "What's dat thingy cawed." But as time progressed, Nel eventually began speaking normally. She also enjoyed drawing with her older sister and was always excited to hear stories from her. The stories she liked to hear the most were Nemu's trips outside the lab.
"Will I ever get to go outside with you Nee-san?" asked Nel, curiously.
"I don't think so Nel-chan," said Nemu somberly.
"Why not?" she asked confused.
Kurotsuchi-sama won't allow it," responded the black-haired humanoid. "In fact, I've only been outside a few times. Most of them to visit your big brother Ichigo."
Nel frowned.
"I wanna go outside one day," said the green-haired humanoid.
------
Nemu changed into one of her gothic lolita dresses, but she noticed that her simple black dress was missing. She didn't pay much attention to the matter as she tied her shoes.
Hisagi-san must be running tests on Nel-chan, thought Nemu, noticing her sister's absence from their white room.
"Sorry Nel," said the distinctive voice of Hisagi. "It's time to run more tests."
Nemu looked at Hisagi, surprised.
"She's not with you?" she quivered.
"No."
Automatically, the two ran out of the white room and began searching the lab. The other scientists freaked out as they searched the lab as well. Hisagi decided to search through the security tapes, in hopes to reveal where Nel might have taken off. The security tapes showed that she left the lab early in the morning, while Nemu was still asleep and before any of the workers came to the lab.
How did she get a hold of a security key?! Only employees have them, he thought, freaking out.
Other tapes revealed that she left the Kurotsuchi Businesses building, causing uproar amongst the scientists. The entire Humanoid Division was ordered to find Nel and retrieve her immediately. Nemu went with Hisagi as they ran all over the town. They checked the stores, the alleyways, and watched the sidewalks for any sign of green hair.
We have to find her, thought Hisagi frantically. We have to find her before-
A howl was heard. Hisagi and Nemu quickly ran to the noise, coming from an alleyway, two stores away. When they reached their destination, the scene shocked Hisagi. Nemu ran to Nel, who was lying on the dirty floor, wearing her black dress. A man was on the ground as well. He had long black hair, sharp white teeth, a skinny body, and an eye patch on his left eye. He was unconscious and Hisagi could see why. His right hand was gone. It seemed as if the hand was cut clean off as it bled. But, where was the hand? There wasn't even a bloody knife on the ground.
"Hisagi-san," stuttered Nemu's voice.
The tattooed scientists rushed towards the humanoid's side. Nemu was holding Nel in her arms. Rain, slowly began to fall and he could see that Nel's eyes were closed as her sister held her closely. A few Sakura petals were in her hair, flowing down as if they were in a clear, green sea. Hisagi closed his eyes as he saw a gaping hole in the middle of her chest, where a green-blue liquid was dripping from the wound.
------
The man was rushed to a hospital. The scientists told the doctors that they found him by dangerous, abandoned machinery and he must have caught his hand in it, cutting it clean off. When he woke up, he said he couldn't remember anything, possibly from shock as the doctors put it. The doctors told him the story the scientists fed them. At the alleyway, some of the scientists at the scene found a security camera. Stealing the tape, they took it back to Kurotsuchi Businesses. The video revealed that the man tried to harass Nel, but she punched him, defending herself, and kicked him before she walked away. However, the man got back on his feet and took out a hidden knife, in which he grabbed Nel and stabbed her in the middle of the chest. He had stabbed the Kurosium. The man's menacing smile changed when his hand suddenly began shaking. As he took out the knife, the metal was disintegrating! He stared at the weapon in shock, but suddenly, he grabbed his hand. He screamed in pain as his hand, literally began to disintegrate in front of him. From what the scientists could see, his skin was dissolving down to the bone and eventually; the bone was gone as well. The scientists were shocked that the Kurosium could, quite literally, destroy a hand, skin, bone, muscles, and all. Hisagi could care less about the injured man. Nel was gone. Fruitlessly, they attempted to replace her Kurosium like they did to Nemu and Ichigo, but her body rejected every Kurosium they attempted to put in her body. Nel was dead. Kurotsuchi Mayuri ordered the body to be disposed of and Hisagi volunteered to do the job. He and Nemu drove to the outskirts of Karakura, where many Sakura trees were in full bloom. It was there, where the pink petals blossomed so beautifully, they buried Neliel Tu Oderschvank. Nemu cried her eyes out at the loss of her beloved sister. Hisagi held her closely as he cried quietly in her hair.
------
"I'm glad you could make it Shūhei-kun," said the lady's sweet voice.
Hisagi nodded as he sipped his green tea. Only a week after Nel's death, Hisagi was dealing with another loss. His uncle had passed away. He asked his boss for a break and now here he was, in Hokkaido. His old neighbor, Unohana Retsu, was serving him tea as they sat in her living room on a tatami mat.
"You've grown so much since I last saw you, Shūhei-kun," said the lady, smiling. "Your uncle told me that you now work for Kurotsuchi Businesses too."
The scientist nodded glumly.
"Your uncle was a good man, Shūhei-kun," she said.
They all said that at the funeral, thought Hisagi, remembering the mourners.
"But I couldn't do anything," he finally responded.
"What do you mean?" asked Unohana.
"The main reason I took the job at Kurotsuchi Businesses was to help my uncle," he revealed. "I knew he was struggling to pay for his heart medication, so I took the job because my boss offered to give him free medication. If I took the job so he wouldn't have to struggle anymore. And yet..."
Unohana looked at the sad scientist as he held his tea.
"He took me in after my folks died in a car accident when I was six. He made sure I went through school and college. He played soccer with me on the weekends and cooked takoyaki every Wednesday," he rambled as tears began to fall down his cheeks. "He knew I was smart. I skipped a grade and continued making straight A's on my report cards."
Unohana gave him a sad smile.
"Why couldn't I help him?"
Me. The one who was part of an experiment that created a new species. It's my fault that Nemu-chan suffers. It's my fault that Nel is dead. I, who bred new life, yet I couldn't save their lives or my Uncle's! Why did I take part in this damned experiment?!
"There was nothing you could do about heart failure Shūhei-kun," said Unohana as she held his hand. "Once someone has a heart attack, they are at greater risk of receiving heart failure. While that person can be prescribed so many medications, eventually, they die."
Hisagi shook his head.
"He wasn't even seventy-five," he said. "I took the job to save him!"
"Shūhei-kun, it doesn't matter how old we are. There is only so much that science can do for us. It can save lives, but sometimes it can't. Nature handles the rest. However, your uncle did not fear death. He lived a good life because he had you. He enjoyed life because you were like a son to him. He made sure you were happy, so he was happy," she said.
"How do you know that?" he asked, sniffing.
"The last day we talked, your uncle was practically glowing when he told me that you graduated and finished your P.H.D in less than two years. But he also said that in your letters, when you wrote that you had a full-time job at Kurotsuchi Businesses, he felt as if you weren't happy with the job. But, he said he wasn't going to worry about you, because it would be your decision with what you wanted to do in the future. You would learn from the mistakes you made and you would make decisions you knew would be not only right for yourself, but right for others."
Hisagi wiped away his tears as he looked at the middle-aged woman.
"I think you know what he means," said Unohana, smiling at Hisagi.
The tattooed scientist nodded.
"There are people, who will eventually need your help Shūhei-kun."
------
"Number 4," stated Kurotsuchi Mayuri as he stared at the water filled tank. "It will be the first humanoid for the Labor Department."
Hisagi grunted. A few days after his return from Hokkaido, they were already beginning the creation of the fourth humanoid. Kurotsuchi was still infuriated that they lost Nel only three weeks after her birth. Now he was concentrated on starting the 2nd sub-department of the humanoids.
"We'll work on creating more lover humanoids later," said Szayel.
Nemu, who was out of her white room, stayed near Hisagi and away from her 'father.' Everyone watched as the Kurosium was dropped into the tank. As usual, the same process repeated itself and Hisagi watched as the body began to form.
Male, he thought to himself as the humanoid with long, black hair positioned itself in the fetal position.
The scientists read the same information that all humanoids possessed. Functioning vitals and infertility. However, something changed in the habitual routine. A purple light began flashing on the screen. The scientists checked the data and said something was wrong. The humanoid's average, functioning vitals were becoming agitated. Almost as if it was in a state of frenzy. The scientists began shouting out the mishaps, but Hisagi watched the humanoid in the tank. Once peaceful in the fetal position, it was now twitching. Suddenly, its mouth opened as bubbles sprouted from it. Was it screaming?! It began to hit its head continuously with its hands and Hisagi saw blue-green liquid fall from its eyes. Kurosium. Something was wrong with the Kurosium in its body that it was beginning to leak out of its eyes. The humanoid then began scratching its skin as its head came in contact with the glass. It banged its head against the glass continuously as Hisagi shouted at the scientists to push the eject button before it broke the tank, but it was too late. As the humanoid continued to hit its head against the glass, the tank finally broke. Water sprouted onto the floor as the humanoid fell of as well. A scientist tried to grab it, but the humanoid scratched him across the chest, leaving bloody marks. The scientist screamed in pain and the black-haired humanoid screamed as well. Hisagi and Nemu rushed towards the humanoid, but they acted quickly. Before it could scratch Hisagi, the tattooed scientist grabbed both of its hands and pushed them down to the ground. The humanoid was about to bite Hisagi, but Nemu put her arm out, allowing it to bite down on her wrist, hard. Nemu winced as her new baby brother bit down on her skin, allowing blood to flow from the wound. Hisagi looked at the humanoid. His long, black hair had not changed color as it clung to his wet, naked body. He had bangs that covered his face, but Hisagi could see the green tear-marks on his cheeks. They were burned onto his face. How had the Kurosium leaked through his eyes? It’s possible that the Kurosium was also responsible for why his skin was pale and his upper lip was black. Slowly, the humanoid’s eyes opened, revealing green, pained, eyes. Nemu felt his teeth loosen from her wrist but they stayed on her skin. Hisagi and Nemu’s attention remained on the haggard humanoid, until they heard footsteps walking towards them. Kurotsuchi Mayuri stared at the naked humanoid.
“Failure,” he stated in disgust. “Not only has it destroyed the tank, but the Kurosium seems to have leaked through its eyes.”
Hisagi stared at his boss.
“Failed experiments are meant to be disposed of. I have no use for this thing,” he said simply.
Szayel snapped his fingers. The other scientists obeyed and cautiously walked towards the pale humanoid.
“No! Stop!” shouted Hisagi.
“No? Insect, it is a failed experiment. Do you honestly think it can learn even with the microchip in its brain? It has caused brain damage just by hitting its head against the glass,” spatted Kurotsuchi Mayuri in disgust. “The Kurosium has also leaked from its eyes! The tank is destroyed, the results are faulty, and you wish to stop its disposal?!”
“Please sir! I’m begging you! Allow me to keep him! I’m begging you! I’ll let you cut my salary in half in order to pay for the damages!” he said, standing up to defend his position.
“Simply cutting your salary isn’t going to help the situation! This failure has also used the last of your skin tissue! We cannot create any more humanoids because of it! Therefore, its skin will be used for future humanoids!” shouted the boss to his employee.
Nemu held her brother closely, in shock. Her baby brother’s skin was to be torn off and harvested?! This can’t be happening!
“Take my back!” stated Hisagi as he glared at Kurotsuchi Mayuri, straight in the eye.
“What?” said the hideous scientist.
“I’ll give you two layers of skin from my entire back. That should be enough for more than one hundred future humanoids!” exclaimed Hisagi.
The room was silent. His entire back?! Such a process would be painful! Kurotsuchi Mayuri searched for any sign of hesitation or fear. All he found was determination. Hisagi was dead serious. Kurotsuchi Mayuri smiled maniacally.
“We have a deal,” he said as he shook the tattooed scientist's hand.
------
*End of Flashback*
“Now my boss is infuriated that there have only been two successful humanoids. So now he’s pushing for more progress,” stated Hisagi.
The cafe became quiet. All that could be heard was the buzzing of the lights. Rukia and Orihime stared at the tattooed scientist as they allowed the information to sink in. Nemu? Ulquiorra? Both humanoids?! Ichigo wasn’t the only one. Two stood in front of the girls! Orihime had more trouble digesting the information. Not only did it turn out that her best friend's boyfriend was a new species created by scientists, but the green-teared teenager she met in the summer turned out to be one of them too! While Hisagi’s boss said that they were not capable of human emotions, she disagreed.
Kurosaki-kun may not be fully human, but those looks that were always reserved for Rukia, couldn’t be false! she thought as she looked at her best friend’s troubled face.
Rukia turned to Orihime as she said, “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you the truth about Ichigo, Orihime. But even I didn’t know all this new information.”
Rukia looked at Nemu and Ulquiorra, becoming accustomed that they were humanoids. Orihime gave the amethyst-eyed teenager a sad smile.
“It’s okay. Hisagi-san told you not to tell anyone. If I was in your place, I would have done the same thing,” she said.
“Kuchiki-san,” said Hisagi as the teenagers turned their attention back to him. “I should be saying sorry. I wasn’t fully honest with you.”
Rukia looked at him.
“Well, the first time you visited me, it took some time for me to accept that Ichigo wasn’t really human. Now, with this new information...it’s a lot to take in.”
The cafe became silent once again. The scientist stared at the thin white scar on his hand and sighed.
“Hisagi,” said Rukia, breaking the silence. “I need to know what ‘renewed’ means.”
Hisagi sighed, not wanting to break the news.
“Now that your time with Ichigo is up,” divulged the tattooed scientist. “My boss wants all the information from Ichigo to be implemented in the future lover humanoids. In order to do so, Ichigo will have his memories wiped clean.”
“What?!” shouted Rukia.
“He will also be sold to a new buyer once the humanoids become public.”
Rukia stared at Hisagi in shock.
“I’m sorry Kuchiki-san,” he said as his hand covered his eyes.
Rukia clenched the table, trying to grasp the bad news. This couldn't be happening!
“B-But, there has to be something we can do, right Hisagi-san?” stuttered Orihime, helplessly.
“My boss refuses to listen to me anymore. I can’t buy Ichigo myself since I bought Ulquiorra and now he wants him destroyed and Ichigo’s memory gone. The only other option is to steal him, but it’s too risky-”
A slap echoed across the room. Rukia, Orihime, and Ulquiorra stared at the scene, speechless. Hisagi had a red handprint on his cheek, but he was attempting to register what just happened. Turning to the side of the perpetrator, he saw that Nemu had her hand raised up with a disgusted face.
“Baka!” she shouted at her co-creator. “This is Ni-kun, no, Ichigo-kun we are talking about! My baby brother! You saved him when he was released prematurely! You saved his memories he had of us by discarding the second injection you were ordered to give him! You saved Ulquiorra-kun by taking the risk of your health! Two layers of your skin were practically ripped off your back in payment for him! Now you say you can’t take the risk of saving him?! This isn’t the Hisagi-san I know that practically raised me and treated me as if I was another human girl! If you won’t save him, I will!”
Everyone stared at Nemu. The usually stoic-faced humanoid now showed conflicted emotions of anger, disgust, fear, sadness, and determination. No one said anything, least to piss off Nemu even more than she already was. Only Hisagi was brave, and possibly stupid, enough to speak.
“I know you would Nemu-chan,” stated the scientist. “But what about you Kuchiki-san?”
The attention was turned back to the silent, raven-haired teenager.
“Would you be willing to save Ichigo?” asked Hisagi. “You already know everything about him. He’s not human. He was a new species created by scientists in the lab from my skin, my boss’ blood, and a rock. Even though he’ll age like a regular human, he will still need his Kurosium replaced every 11 months. You might face the possibility that his body will reject the Kurosium and he’ll never wake up. You also face the dilemma that he can never provide a family for you. He’s infertile, so you will never have children in the future. Are you willing to risk everything for a humanoid who can’t give you new life and needs a rock to survive?”
Rukia stared at Hisagi as his question hung in the air. After a moment of silence, Rukia stood up and looked at the scientist, straight in the eye.
“I’m not going to just sit here and cry while Ichigo gets his memories taken away,” she said. “Nothing matters to me as long as I have Ichigo. I’ll save him.”
Hisagi looked back into Rukia’s eyes, searching for any hint of doubt. He found only determination.
She really does love him, he thought.
“Kurosaki-kun is important to Rukia,” said Orihime as she took her best friend’s hand into hers. “I’ll help too.”
“I’ll come,” said Ulquiorra.
All four stared at the scientist, waiting for his answer.
Hisagi smiled as he said, “Let’s go save Ichigo.”