"I suppose so," Rukia conceded. "But it seems unlikely. I know of no one who dislikes me so intensely as to conduct my murder. It serves little purpose, as we do awaken a short time later." She settled the stuffed rabbit on her lap and folded her arms. "So why go to the effort at all? It makes little sense."

His second remark stirred her out of her reverie, and she blinked for a moment before lowering her head contritely. Naturally she hadn't intended to cause worry to anyone, but it was somewhat touching to think that even her temporary death would have an effect on anyone at all. It was little more than an unplanned absence, so why worry? Why court sadness?

"Then I should go to see them personally," she concluded. "Once we've finished our business and the staff sees fit to release me."