Seeing Castiel's hesitation, Rukia easily takes the lead, seating herself down on one of the cushions, knees first. She smiles, appreciative for the sympathy, but also not wanting to mislead Castiel into thinking that she's grieving the loss of Urahara Kisuke. She isn't.

The city may be a touch more lonely without his presence, but his is not a loss she mourns.


"I appreciate that. But, to be honest, Urahara-san and I were never the fastest of friends, and it won't be hard for me to return to a city that lacks his presence," Rukia admits, tilting her head as she looks up at Castiel. "Most of all, I simply wanted to point out the spiritual shift in the city, now that he's gone. It may have some implications. Some Hollows may be more willing to come out of the shadows than ever before, now that his strength no longer permeates the streets. I wasn't sure how best to bring that up to Dean, but I may need his help more often in the near future."

Reaching forward, Rukia turns over a small, hidden panel in the table, revealing a small stove. "Would you like some tea?"