Chibiusa spotted Rukia and hurried to meet up with her. "Rukia-san? Have you seen Kuchiki-san?"

A solemn expression was on Rukia's face, but she smiled slightly. "Nii-sama is speaking with my sister."

"With Hisana-san?"

"Yes."

She said goodbye to Rukia and continued to quietly explore.

Finally she saw Byakuya emerge from his room. Her footsteps echoed against the wood floor as she ran and threw herself at him, hugging him. He looked surprised but did not say much.

"Chibiusa."

One last squeeze and she let go, smiling, but felt only sadness inside.