So I thought a lot about whether or not to do this fanfic or not, considering has been quite dead over the last few years. I thought about the fact that I could literally post a story now and literally NO ONE will review it. Ever. Then I thought to myself that if I never try, I will never truly know what could happen. I'm going to take a risk and pray that hopefully this will go well. This is my first Bleach fic, so here we are!
Also, I hate that I must make his disclaimer, but it's necessary: IF YOU HAVE NOT READ THE MANGA IN IT'S ENTIRETY, THIS MAY NOT BE FOR YOU BECAUSE IT WILL CONTAIN SPOILERS.
In addition, this is story will deviate from what the ending of Bleach is, but that's the whole point of writing a fanfic; everyone has their own opinions, likes, etc. I am going to try my best to keep things canon for the most part, but I will warn you that there will be pairings obviously, that don't correspond with the ending (if you've read it) and some that are completely non-canon.
Throughout the story, there will be a progression of years. I do know that the ending of Bleach takes place 10 years after the Thousand Year Blood War Arc, but I'm going to cover the years leading up to the ending of the manga (how it SHOULD have been).
Day One of Eternity
Summary: Once he stepped through the Senkaimon that would be the first day of eternity. All Rukia's and Ichigo's adventures and life changing moments with their friends and family throughout the years. [Post Thousand Year Blood War Arc]
"If you give me wings, I will soar for you even if this whole land sinks down to the water. If you give me a sword, I will fight for you even if this whole sky shoots through with your light."
~Ichigo Kurosaki
June 29th
Four days.
Four days have passed since the war had officially concluded. Destruction, agony, and loss clung to the air like a thick cloud of smog, despite the remaining captain class soldiers and seated officers left in the Thirteen Court Guard squads. The remaining members of each division began rebuilding; a slow, and tedious movement. The events inspiring to some while others had heavy hearts.
Two days.
A mere forty-eight hours passed since the captains and officers Yachiru Kusajishi and Jushiro Ukitake, were laid to rest. To Lieutenant Kotetsu's utter dismay, the former captain of squad four's body was not found in Muken, where her last battle took place. Though she was told by Captain Zaraki's own mouth that she was dead, Sui Feng and the Stealth Force confirmed that a body was not found in the underground prison. The lieutenant nearly went into shock, but instead shed even more tears of suffering for not having the chance to properly say goodbye to her former superior.
Presently, the new Head Captain Kyoraku sat in his home office, head strolling through his lost emotions. He never thought that he'd be giving eulogies to his former colleagues, but more importantly, his best friend, this soon. He could still remember choking, not being able to go on after half of his tribute; of course, Nanao concluded the service in his place, but tears could not stop trailing down her subtle cheeks. With the rebuilding taking place, he also had the matters of having to fill the vacant captain positions. Emotionally, he would never be ready to fill those vacancies; however, his duty was to Soul Society and his feelings would have to be pushed aside.
"Have you decided?"
He looked up with his one operative eye, seeing his young niece that has been by his side for years, clad in a plain nightgown and his famous, floral kimono standing in his doorway. She gave him new purpose after the war; the events that transpired brought them closer together as family. He always sought to protect her, but he knew now what she was capable of and could take care of herself.
He pinched the bridge of his nose. "I'll get around to it eventually."
She looked at him, clearly not gratified with his casualty. "You don't have a lot of time, you do realize."
"Can't say that I'm unaware." He said, watching her join him behind his desk.
She gently sat in the chair across from his desk, wrapping his kimono around her small frame. "It's going to be very difficult, but he wouldn't want you to do this to yourself."
"You're probably right about that. Things just won't be the same without them, you know." He set his hat on the top left corner of the smooth mahogany.
"We're never ready for a loss like this, dear uncle. It's always imperative during times like this we stay united after being forcefully divided." Nanao gave him a very weak smile.
"Let's go to bed." He patted her shoulder, as she gave him an awkward hug on their way out.
It will get better, that I promise you, she thought, blowing out the candles on the wall.
August 30th
A lieutenant standing at four foot, eleven inches sat under a sakura tree in the gardens of the Kuchiki mansion, twiddling with her raven black hair. She hadn't had any desire to cut her ever growing hair; then again, where was the time to think about trivial things. For weeks, her life was constantly changing at every turn. She could still remember learning bankai, meeting the members of squad zero, and not knowing who you were going to lose next put an enormous weight on her very small shoulders. When Rukia thought she was going to lose her brother two months ago, she never felt so empty, even with all the trials and tribulations that she endured. Not even persevering through Rukongai would be comparable to the loss of Byakuya or even her orange haired companion, who was more than just a companion.
Ichigo.
His face appeared through her thoughts for the last several weeks and continued to plague her inner thoughts. Rukia knew that on multiple occasions that Ichigo was always at risk, but this war caused a metamorphosis with her emotions and feelings for the teenage, substitute soul reaper; she began to accept those feelings as love and lust. At the moment, said boy was back in Karakura Town and she didn't know if she would be returning or not. Under the orders of the Head Captain, no one was allowed to travel to and from the World of the Living, unless told otherwise.
Byakuya mentioned something about safety precautions and giving the humans some time, she thought, still twiddling with her hair, letting out a sigh.
"I knew I'd find you here." A large, black shadow revealed the somewhat chipper person to be the lieutenant of squad five and Rukia's best friend, the newlywed Momo Hitsugaya.
The smaller lieutenant smiled to herself a little bit. She felt overjoyed that she and Momo grew closer during the war. Momo knew precisely how Rukia felt about losing Captain Ukitake; the only difference between he and Aizen was that the former didn't betray his squad and Soul Society. Captain Ukitake was like the father she never had, and it would be hard to follow in his footsteps.
"The Head Captain wants to speak with me later, as well as Byakuya." She muttered, still messing with her hair.
"You don't think it's to discuss promoting you, is it?" Momo raised her perfectly arched brow with curiosity.
Rukia visibly flinched. "I hope not. I just learned bankai not even three months ago! I could never fill Captain Ukitake's position."
"Kiki, you're a very strong woman. If they are considering you to be promoted, I would think about it. If you're not emotionally ready to go up for the captain's exam, then don't." She used her endearing nickname for her.
The Chappy loving girl used to hate it, but it began to grow on her. Her deep violet eyes glanced at the diamond encrusted wedding ring. "I still can't believe you and Toshiro are married now."
"It's hard for me to absorb too. I'm not used to being called Lieutenant Hitsugaya, but I'm happy I married my best friend after all the years we've known each other." Momo earnestly gazed down at her ring, "Have you heard from Rangiku lately?"
"Sadly, I haven't. I know that she decided to invest in real estate not too far from the squad ten barracks and has been moving her belongings in the last few days," Rukia could hear the chimes ringing at the time, "Well, looks like I have to report to Head Captain Kyoraku. It's a quarter past one."
"Be careful, okay? I'll come by after my lunch with Toshiro." Momo gave her a giant hug before flash stepping off the Kuchiki mansion grounds.
It wasn't too long before Rukia found herself flash stepping across the rooftops to get to squad one.
"Ahh, Hamlet! One of the best tragedies ever written!"
That was the one thing that brought Ichigo Kurosaki out of his thoughts. He was exhausted. It had only been about two months since he won the war for the survival of all dimensions. Ichigo hadn't spoken to anyone, especially Uryu. The dark haired Quincy had been on a leave of absence, not due to return until the middle of September. Even from the accumulated missed days of school, his grades were better than when things were normal; movement to the top fifteen in his graduating class was always welcomed. Two days prior, he opened an acceptance letter along with the words 'full scholarship' and 'early admission' being the best news he's heard since last year.
He initially thought to skip class, but anymore missed days of school would result in not receiving his diploma; therefore, it would also risk the scholarship he earned to Karakura University. He completely forgot he even took his entrance exams, let alone applied for college in the first place. When you and the lives of everyone you love could cease to exist, none of that remained significant; it was obsolete. The thought of his family, friends, and his home being extinguished was heart wrenching; it nearly killed him to think of a petite, lieutenant screaming in terror as her life flashed before her big, doe eyes.
Rukia.
His innermost, secret thoughts couldn't seem to focus on other matters; all he saw was her. He often times wondered when Shunsui would allow her to come back.
Or if she'll come back. He bit the inside of his cheek as he looked out the window at the wind rustling the trees. Rukia being gone was a somber, murky part of his life he didn't want to reflect on. Her not coming back to him would be a devastating blow he couldn't bear again, especially because of his newfound love for her. Things were to the point that his thoughts were not suitable for school or work; his sex dreams were becoming vivid and more incessant.
Just picturing her petite curves in a black lace bra and panties, with five inch, black stilettos made blood rush to below his belt. He could see her right on the desk and see himself grabbing her ankles, while pulling down the lacy undergarment, ready to push his well-endowed girth in between her thighs—
"Ichigo, can you explain the first soliloquy in scene two of act one? What is Hamlet feeling right now?"
And Ochi calling on him made the tent in his pants deflate in a heartbeat. To say he was embarrassed was putting it lightly. "Ummmm, well….he's still mourning his father's death, his mother got married to his uncle not even two months later, and then his uncle and mother asked him to quit school. Everything that's happening to him is taking its toll and he's suicidal, but he knows that suicide is a sin. He's pretty unhappy with life right now."
The teacher adjusted her glasses nervously. "That's correct, Ichigo, but make sure you keep the daydreaming to a minimum."
Further in the back corner, a very tall, well-built Japanese-Mexican noticed his best friend was preoccupied with his thoughts as of late. The friendly giant was skeptical with the conclusions he drew the last couple weeks, but if he wasn't mistaken, the substitute soul reaper has finally come to terms with his feelings for the squad thirteen lieutenant.
To Chad's chagrin, however, there was an unsettled matter that had yet to be mended; an auburn haired matter that shared the same class.
He's put off this confrontation long enough; he's got to let her down at some point. On the other hand, it's quite ludicrous that she still has this image of what she wants him to be, or that he reciprocates her feelings. Chad let out a frustrated sigh. He knew that Rukia was perfect for his orange haired friend, but everything could get messy rather quickly if he continued to ignore the giant elephant in the room.
"Soooo, do you know when Rukia is coming back….you know, to visit from college?"
He momentarily drew a blank. Ichigo recalled her modifying Keigo, Tatsuki, and Mizuiro's memories. They know everything, with the exception that Rukia stayed in Soul Society instead of coming back to the World of the Living. As far as they know, she was able to start college a year earlier at Tokyo University.
"I don't know, I'm wondering the same thing," He continued sipping on his juice box, "She'll be back whenever she's ready."
I wonder what she looks like…I mean, I know what she looks like, but it has been two months. Her hair might be longer…, hell, maybe she finally hit puberty…hehe. Ichigo looked out at the beautiful rooftops and nature that was Karakura Town. His-no, their home.
"Hi, Ichigo!"
He nearly jumped over the edge of the gate to the roof. "Orihime…., hey."
"How have you been?" She asked
Ichigo was collected on the outside, but on the inside he was cringing. After the war, Uryu and Chad explained to him that Orihime's held strong feelings for him since before he became a soul reaper and met Rukia. Sitting back and being observant, Ichigo berated himself for not noticing prior to now that she felt this way. He gave his word to his two friends that he would talk to her and set the record straight, but he put the conversation aside in fear that he would break her heart; damned if he does and damned if he doesn't.
As their conversation began, Tatsuki appeared from the shadows. She took note of the demeanor change in her childhood friend over the last two years. It amazed her seeing him finally grow into the man that he was meant to be; it was all thanks to Rukia. Her eyes glanced over to her best friend with a very large bosom. Sadly, Orihime was still on the Ichigo bandwagon and vehemently refused to get off.
She needs to get over him. It's just going to hurt her more if she can't come to terms with what everyone has been trying to tell her. Tatsuki spent many a day emphasizing to the innocent girl that maybe it was time she moved on and find another guy that's not Ichigo; however, the other girl wouldn't hear of it, she would just smile and convince herself that things will work out.
"How have you been lately?" She could hear Chad's baritone from behind her.
She turns looking at him with a smile. Her crush on Chad blossomed after the Winter War with Aizen, and things between them were continuing to be great. "I'm getting ready to go to the UK once school's over, so life is good."
"That's cool. It'll be a good experience I'm sure." He shifted, glancing over at Ichigo trying to hold himself together.
Tatsuki noticed the saddened look on his chiseled face. "I'm just traveling before I start school at Karakura University. No big thing."
The gentle giant smiled more so to himself. He held mutual feeling of attraction to her, but wants her to be sure that her feelings are definite. He was about to talk before hearing the bell chime for the end of lunch. "Come on, I'll walk with you back to class."
As the rest of his friends trickle down the staircase, Ichigo's auburn gold eyes looked toward the sky, letting out a sigh.
Rukia, come back soon, okay?
"You wished to see me, brother?"
The Head of the Kuchiki clan turned his attention from his superior to his younger sibling. Just from her body language alone, Byakuya could tell the more she was composed on the outside, the more terrified and fearful she was on the inside.
"Ah, Rukia! Come, come and sit!" Shunsui welcomed her, allowing her to take a seat next to her brother.
"There is no need for you to be tense. Everything for the most part is fine." Byakuya added, taking a sip of tea.
"Okay." Rukia said, relaxing into the soft couch cushion.
"Well, given that rebuilding the Seireitei is progressing very quickly in the last couple months, your brother and I agreed to letting take up your post back in Karakura town."
"I'm sorry….what?" Rukia blinked a couple times in disbelief.
"Ichigo Kurosaki's powers have increased since training with the former royal guard; however, he has a great deal to learn before he is privileged to be captain, whenever he takes permanent residence in the Seireitei." Byakuya explained, trying not to let his annoyance with the young boy leak from his mouth
Shunsui playfully rolled his eyes at the young captain's disdain. "You will be there unless we need you to come back. It'll be good for you to see the boy again."
Rukia looks at him with shock. Just before she can open her mouth, she hears a low chuckle from the Head Captain. "Rukia, dear, I may be old, but I'm not blind."
"Thank you so much, sir! I'll get ready right away!" The young girl chirped, walking out quickly.
"So are you excited to see him after all this time?"
Rukia looked up at Rangiku, while folding another few articles of clothing. For whatever reason, it was at Rangiku's suggestion that she invite herself, Momo, and Isane over to the Kuchiki mansion to have a small gathering to see their friend off.
She let up a small smile; she just couldn't lie, "I'll admit I'm feeling very pleased to see my best friend again….what? Why are you all staring at me?"
"Kiki! It's no secret to anyone how you and Ichigo feel about each other. It's obvious the two of you want to be together." Momo sipped her tea, grimacing at how cold it is.
Rangiku flipped her newly dyed, dark burgundy hair over her shoulder. "I agree, the sexual tension between the two of you is ridiculous."
"I think you're being absurd. Ichigo and I are just.., well, we're really close friends." Rukia bit her lip at her busty companion's mention of sex. Her dreams have been increasingly risqué and sexual since he's been away; images of intimate massages and him throwing her on her bed and pouncing on her like an angry beast.
Momo poured herself a fresh cup of tea, but the small sigh she let out gave away her tone. "Even Byakuya, the biggest pru—well never mind, he might be listening."
"I don't think you should feel ashamed at all. You both are a cute pair." Isane chimed in after remaining quiet since her arrival.
A blush creeps on her cheeks. "Okay, I really do have feelings for him…I just don't know how to really tell him."
Rangiku grabbed her small friend and crushed her into her bosom. "No need to worry, I can definitely show you how to charm a man, especially one like Ichigo."
"Ran, you're gonna kill her doing that." Momo pried Rukia out of the massive breasts that belong to Rangiku.
She let out a couple coughs after gasping for air. "Thanks, Momo! And anyway, what exactly do you mean 'charm' him?"
Rangiku came up behind her and attacked her chest. "Look, after all these years of you looking like a damn kid, you finally have boobs! You can finally attract a real man and not the perverted ones who use your prior looks as a fetish."
Momo rolled her eyes, momentarily in discomfort from witnessing breast fondling. "Not all of us can act whorish like you do."
"Hey! I'm not a whore!" The taller woman pouted, "Plus, Keeks, you need to purchase a nice lingerie set, preferably something dark to set off your complexion. Then you can surprise him by sneaking into his bed while he's asleep and give him the best surprise in the morning!"
"Or you can just be yourself and not act like a whore. Plus, Byakuya would torture Ichigo with his bankai for all eternity." Momo crossed her arms, being the only one thinking logically.
Isane continued nibbling quietly on the little sandwiches provided. "I concur. Guys like Ichigo appreciate modesty."
"Flaunting your goods never hurt anyone either." She was really not letting this suggestion go from what Rukia could see.
Momo tapped her finger to her chin with a thought. "Well, when you attempted to do that with Ichigo, didn't he reject you when you tried to bribe him into letting you stay with him before the war with that…thing. Man I'm so glad he's stuck in that fucking chair! Son of a bitch."
Rukia felt even more lost than she was prior to them spending the night. Ever since her adoption, she had no other alternative to being modest; any Rangiku type behavior would bring shame and dishonor to the Kuchiki clan. Her role as the perfect porcelain doll remained that way for years, and would continue to do so. Nevertheless, what Rangiku proposed may just work.
The small lieutenant zipped up her last bag for her trip in the morning. "I never thought I would say this in my life, but I'm going with Rangiku's idea."
"What?"
"Really?"
Hearing the mixed response from her fellow lieutenants almost made her snort (almost…Kuchiki's never snort). "I know it sounds….asinine, but it can't hurt to try."
"Rangiku one, modesty zero!" She teased. As the girls shut off the lights and blew out the candles for the night, Rukia hoped deep down inside things would not go haywire.
Byakuya sat in his office. His dim, inadequately lit office. On the dark wood stood a rather large bottle of the finest sake amongst the noble clans. Usually, Byakuya had no interest and did not care for liquor on a consistent basis; this occasion, however, called for a glass…..or five of the fine liquor. In just a short, six hours, his sister would be taking her post as watcher of the World of the Living once more. More than a handful of thoughts were tangled in his head and had no idea how exactly to make sense of things.
This war with Yhwach put many things in perspective for him. As a soul reaper, you could lose your life at any point in time; however, having his bankai stolen from him and then almost being murdered at the hands of your own power changed you. He appreciated his sister all the more and was immensely proud that she achieved bankai; a magnificent, yet powerful one at that. Their relationship continued to grow little by little each day, though there's much room for improvement.
His heart was set on being a better brother instead of just being head of the clan. Byakuya envied the orange haired human because of how fond his sisters are of him, and wishes to have the same relationship with his.
I'd rather perish with my wife than to ever admit that to him. He chuckled, taking another swig of liquor straight from the bottle.
She definitely has matured. Rukia is not the same little girl he adopted long ago. Byakuya took precautions once her body started to change into a woman's from a child's; the fact that the men in the squads noticed too boiled his blood like no other. The unfiltered, abominable, vulgar thoughts that could be running through men's heads, along with the distasteful stares they give her now pissed him off.
She's a woman, not a piece of raw meat. He rolled his eyes, not recalling how much liquor he's consumed all evening. He was starting to feel the effects later than he thought he would; his tolerance must still be intact.
The nail that would put him in the coffin: Ichigo Kurosaki. Byakuya, like anyone else, knew a while ago how the young ryoka felt about his sister. The amusement he gets from the two of them being oblivious was crazy to him; that boy's hormones are out of control at seventeen years old.
If he ever defiles my sister, I will torture him to the severity that he regrets the day his parents conceived him. After glancing at the bottle of sake for a few moments, the head of the clan decided to ditch the glass and drink straight from the bottle.
Amid getting as much rest as possible, the reigning Princess of Kuchiki was lying in her bed. Her thoughts wandered back to the orange haired man whom she experienced significant parts of her life with. Ever since the war with Aizen, she internally battled and came to terms with how she feels about the adolescent strawberry. Rukia always assumed that Ichigo saving her life was customary because they were best friends, and that the great majority of what he's done for her was because of their friendship.
It wasn't until that unfortunate day that her love of him began. She wanted him to be able to look in her amethyst eyes and see how she truly felt for him; mind, body, and soul. It was that very day that she left him when she realized that her love for him went beyond a platonic form. Rukia Kuchiki was madly in love with Ichigo Kurosaki. She didn't have to hesitate to be herself with him. She could be bossy, witty, and argumentative while being loving and kind all at the same time, and be completely unapologetic for it.
I've never felt that comfortable around any guy, other than strawberry head. Well, he's my strawberry head, but doesn't know it yet. She smiled, holding her warm quilts closer to her small frame.
Though she was overjoyed and full of happiness, Rukia was suddenly reminded with a pending concern that was her other close companion. She had prior knowledge that Orihime was still infatuated with Ichigo, or in her opinion, the idea of being with Ichigo. Everyone and their mother knew that Ichigo didn't reciprocate the same feelings as the large busted girl, but Rukia didn't want to be the one to crush the girl's heart into pieces.
I know the feeling of it. I won't deal the same damage that fate gave me not too long ago.
Randomly her thoughts went to the girl talk that recently occurred with Rangiku and company. It was definitely out of her comfort zone and completely against anything Kuchiki approved, but the Chappy loving girl was growing into her femininity and wanted to do things from an alternative approach. It sounded risqué and fun, but she wasn't entirely sure about going through with it. Ichigo wasn't the kind of guy that paid any attention to the superficial side of a person, which she absolutely adored about him.
There's no guys like him in the squads. They could learn a thing or two from him.
The princess could drift to sleep, with new found determination. She wanted to be honest with him about her true feelings for him, with the hopes that Orihime will be empathetic and that Ichigo will not put her through rejection.
Tatsuki thought it would be a nice change of pace to treat her best friend to sushi, after a long, boring day of school. She had been so focused on homework and her future endeavors that she hadn't caught up with Orihime.
"Can I just have a glass of water with lemon and mint please?" The auburn girl was looking through the menu pensively.
"I'll have the same." Tatsuki noticed that there was something on her best friend's mind. She wasn't excitedly going on about how she would mix different sushi with chocolate or any weird and disgusting combination she could think of on the spot.
"Hey, I noticed you and Chad have been getting closer. Tell me the details." Tatsuki was taken aback that the normally timid girl just come out the wood work asking her about Chad.
Oh, something was definitely up. Orihime and forward didn't go in the same sentence. "Well, he's been getting a bit flirtier lately."
"I've noticed. I wonder if he's going to ask you out to the prom." The chipper girl gave a huge smile, a larger smile than normal.
"I don't understand why we even have to do this stupid prom thing, honestly. It's an American thing anyway." Tatsuki rolled her eyes, letting out a sigh she had been holding in.
"It's part of our culture requirement for graduation, unless you plan on participating in some other activities during the year. It seems people want to go anyway." Orihime took tiny sips of her water.
Tatsuki could hear her stomach grumbling before she can get a word out. "I wouldn't mind going with Chad if he asked me, but I'd still have to go anyway. I'm not going to find any alternative. How hard can it be to dress up and dance for a few hours?"
"It can't be too bad." Orihime shrugged, taking another generous sip of water.
Tatsuki had an idea of what she wanted and gently set the menu aside. "How would you feel if Uryu asked you out?"
"I'm not speaking to him. You know that." Orihime casted her glance away from the table. How could her best friend forget so easily that the war hadn't been over that long?
Tatsuki could tell that she had stricken a nerve. She wanted to desperately reason with Orihime, but it was going to take a lot. "You need to talk to him. Maybe if you let him explain what happened, you can have some closure to the situation and move on. You can't keep lusting after Ichigo forever."
"I'm not lusting after him. I have feelings for Ichigo and I'm not comfortable talking with Uryu so soon. We all need healing." Orihime was feeling more uncomfortable as the conversation continued. Ichigo was no longer a subject that others seemed to want to hear once Rukia gave him his soul reaper powers back. She couldn't tell if her friends were annoyed or just felt sorry for her.
"Hime, I love you like a sister, but you can't keep wishing to be with someone who doesn't feel the same way." Tatsuki almost mentioned that Ichigo was actually in love with Rukia, but she didn't want to totally break the girl's spirit.
The little girl in Orihime's heart wouldn't hear of it. "But you don't know that. He could be having a rough time expressing himself."
Tatsuki tried to be patient with the innocent girl, but it was just so hard explaining this to her best friend without being too blunt with her. Maybe I'll have to just let her figure it out on her own.
With rebuilding came a breath of fresh air. A new home away from the squad ten barracks was the change that Rangiku needed after trying times. Investing her money in her own home was quite rewarding and gave her a sense of happiness. As she opened her fifth box, being a zombie popped into her mind for the umpteenth time. It felt haunting and still rather disturbing.
The most bothering piece of her changing story was her love life, or lack thereof. Shuuhei and Izuru still have their fair share of flirting and trying to get her drunk on the weekends, but she hadn't given them the time of day or even thought about having sex. Unwrapping the thick newspaper, she found a picture of her and Gin. She gently wiped away the small trace of dust as thoughts of love, adoration, and mourning overwhelmed her state of mind once more.
There's not a day that passes that I don't miss him. She hugged the frame close to her chest, letting out a gentle huff.
"Knock, knock!" The squad 10 lieutenant was interrupted from her thoughts when a very chipper Momo Hitsugaya walked in. "We brought a housewarming gift."
"An antique? Hmmm, you've got great taste." Rangiku smiled, giving her best friend a gentle hug.
"Actually, Toshiro found it while we were out finding décor for the family room." Momo recalled how not that long ago, Toshiro had a family home built into the barracks once reconstruction had begun.
"Huh, I didn't think him of all people would be into finding décor and the whole shebang. It doesn't seem like his cup of tea." Rangiku set the vase down on the plushy, dark grey faux fur rug.
"Usually I don't make it a habit, but I was willing to do anything for my wife." Toshiro materialized next to Momo, gracing her cheek with a kiss. "Your garden is significantly larger than mine."
Rangiku shook her head as she giggled to herself. "My mind cannot wrap itself around your growth spurt. I keep wanting to call you shorty, but that's all changed."
"Trust me, I didn't either at first. I didn't think I'd see the day. I'm now taller than my own wife by a foot. How is everything going?" Toshiro focused his teal eyes on the coffee books on the side table parallel to the glass doors to the garden.
"It's slow, but I'm just about done unpacking. I'm loving how everything looks." Rangiku took in the surroundings of her living room. Everything was falling into place for her.
Momo sat down on the huge, grey sectional. "Are you absolutely sure you're okay? I know a couple nights ago, was really rough for you."
Rangiku hesitated because she didn't wish to be reminded of her night at the Kuchiki family manor with her girlfriends. "I'm better now. The nightmares are less frequent than they were before. I can actually get six hours of sleep."
Toshiro placed a gentle hand on his lieutenant's shoulder. "It was never your fault. I don't want you to blame yourself. Gin betrayed us all because of his unconditional love for you. I know that you feel responsible because you never wanted him to die for you."
"I'll be fine, Captain. I promise." Rangiku let out a small huff that she had been holding in.
"If you're sure, then Momo and I ought to be going. I have to hold up my end of our agreement….and finish your paperwork." Toshiro gave Rangiku a hug before helping his wife up from the couch.
Momo gracefully took her husband's hand. "That's his way of saying we're leaving to have sex."
"Really, Momo?" Toshiro looked incredulously at his wife. Since when was their sex life an open forum?
"Oh, Shiro, stop being such a prude. You'll end up like Captain Kuchiki if you're not careful. Ran already knows we're trying for a baby." Momo playfully rolled her eyes, tugging at his haori.
Rangiku nearly pissed herself from laughing hard. "I keep telling her it's going to be when you guys aren't trying and are just screwing like rabbits because you feel like it."
"I should have known you were partially behind this." The squad ten captain took his leave with his wife closed behind.
"Get some rest, Ran. We'll talk later." Momo gave her a wink, as Toshiro wrapped an arm around her and quickly disappeared.
Rangiku couldn't help but smile. At least someone close to her was truly experiencing happiness. After all that Momo had gone through with Aizen not that long ago, it was amazing how she could finally get the love and adoration that she deserved.
The love that the spouses shared brought her back to Gin. She had been in love with him since they both decided to join the academy years ago. It crushed her heart that they had sex before being betrayed by him, Aizen, and Kaname Tosen. Not long after that, she sees him dying in a pool of his own blood.
Maybe I shouldn't have made plans. God laughs when you make plans….
Trying to let the thought go once more, she idly goes back to packing. Her focus needed to be on her now. This was a chapter of recovery for everyone, and she wasn't an exception.
Big Ben was a beautiful sight in the evening. Hearing the bell ring at the stroke of noon, Uryu was taking a nightly stroll due to boredom. The war was still weighing on his mind, recalling all the bad choices that he made. Him joining the Wandenreich to avenge his mother he didn't feel was the wrong intent, but there could have been a better alternative. He needed his own time to process the consequences of his actions. London had been the first thing that came to mind when fleeing away from the faces of your closest friends. One face would break his entire resolve.
Orihime…
He loved her, that much was certain. No matter how much loved and adored her, he would not stand and watch her lust after him when he knew for a fact that the orange-haired buffoon didn't feel the same. While he thought her naivety was somewhat adorable, it was a bit disturbing at the same time. Most people would eventually move on and pursue a different relationship; however, Orihime wasn't a standard case. As much as he didn't want to admit it, he was hoping that Rukia and Ichigo would hurry and make their relationship official, so that Orihime would finally understand that her crush didn't wish to be romantically involved with her.
Quite frankly, everyone except Rukia and Ichigo can see how much they like each other and need to just make it official. They belong together in their own unique way. It would be wrong for Orihime to try and pry that bond apart, regardless of innocent intent.
He remembered the letter that he spent a good portion of his time in London writing to her. Uryu wanted everything out in the open; the war, his mother, being a Quincy, and how he'd go to the ends of the Earth just to call Orihime his. She leaked kindness and compassion from her very soul, had a grace about her that set her apart from other women, and was there when he needed her most…., except for now.
I know she doesn't want to see me. I'm pretty sure the others, and even the entirety of Soul Society wouldn't be too pleased to look at me…
What gave him a small glimpse of hope was that he needed to forgive himself. Part of him knew that his friends may understand, and have already forgiven him; that wouldn't matter if he didn't let his heart lay to rest and take the burden off himself.
Orihime, my love, forgive me…
It wouldn't be until just before his return that said young woman would receive the letter. He would keep high hopes in his prayers for the subsequent nights.
September 1st
Tatsuki never saw herself in such a situation in her wildest dreams. Morning sex from her experiences had always been the best sex. Locking lips with the friendly giant that was Yasutora Sado was an unexpected plot twist that was her life. It was a heaven sent that her parents were out of town for the next two weeks on cruise in the Caribbean, or she wouldn't have a story to tell.
Her lips continued to lock with his, until she lied her head down on his shoulder. "I could stay in bed all day and not get tired of this."
"I agree. I couldn't see myself leaving an attractive woman alone in bed." He gently pushed a few strands of hair out of her face.
The tomboy could feel the heat in her cheeks. Because of her nature, she playfully hit him, knowing it wouldn't bother him. "Stop! I'm not used to such…. feminine compliments."
It wasn't that she didn't appreciate it from him, but ever since her and Chad had been sexually active with each other since before Ginjo came into the picture, she wasn't very certain how to process a man treating her well. Most guys ran for the hills with her because of her seemingly brutish and overbearing personality.
It's almost like I get lost on how to express myself to him. I know eventually he's going to want definition to what we've been doing. It's what guys like Chad want.
"I don't understand. Why don't you see the beauty inside yourself? You might be rough around the edges, but your personality is great." He lifted her chin to look into her eyes.
His soft baritone tugged on Tatsuki's heart strings, but she remained silent. He decided to continue. "I've known you quite a while now, and I've grown to like you a lot. I just don't want to keep making love with you and not being clear on what's happening. I'd be foolish to look like I'm playing with your emotions."
"I….I feel the same way. I'm just not so great at verbally communicating my feelings. I've never really been in touch with them because I considered it a weakness. Then I got closer to you and….I just don't want to lose you is what I'm trying to say." Tatsuki bit her lip, hoping that she didn't sound too cheesy.
"Well, it's good we're on the same page now. You're amazing and I don't want to give you up." He got up to put his underwear and pants back on, watching her roll over on her stomach.
Tatsuki smiled a bit, just before playful smacking his butt. "If that's the case, show me how much you give up a good breakfast in the morning. I like my eggs hot."
"They'll be ready in no time." He suddenly was on his way into the other room.
She couldn't help but let out a girlish giggle once he was out of sight. Her mind wondered how a guy could suddenly open her eyes to a different side of life? The old Tatsuki would tell a guy how he was a little bitch and probably karate chop them.
I'm really like this new, lively side of myself. She found herself smiling again as she grabbed her underwear and got ready for the day.
Rukia thought this was going to be the greatest day of her life in the last couple of days. A talk with Renji earlier that morning took a little joy away from her, but she was determined not to lose it for the rest of the day. She explained to Renji that she would be taking her original post in Karakura Town once again until Ichigo is done with his training to prepare him to be a Captain, or even Captain Commander. Renji wasn't hearing of it and stormed out of the Kuchiki family manor. She had appreciated that Byakuya was close by to make sure she was okay seeing as how Renji was quite loud and had knocked over the small table in one of the family rooms.
"He will come to terms with the decision that has been made in due time. It is of no concern to you how he chooses to handle his personal problems." She recalled her brother saying briefly.
She completely understood what her brother told her, but this wasn't just some random person. Renji was her best friend for many years. It hurt inside to know that he still felt some type of way about Ichigo. She couldn't pinpoint why he would even have an issue with Ichigo when both men got along great with each other.
How can they get along, but he gives me the impression that he hates Ichigo? I will never understand men…
"Hey, are you okay?" Her amethyst orbs looked up to Momo. Her fellow lieutenant was kind enough to see her off.
"Yes, I'm just still disturbed at the conversation with him earlier. It kind of ruined my mood." Rukia ran her hand delicately through her curled locks.
"Keeks, don't worry about it. It's like Byakuya told you. If Renji has a personal issue with you going back to Karakura Town, then that's something he's got to deal with on his own. You were given orders by your superior and if he can't respect that, then that's not for you to worry about." Momo felt for her best friend. The situation sounded similar to years back when Byakuya adopted to her into the Kuchiki clan and the dynamic between her and Renji changed dramatically.
Momo had also known Renji for quite a while as well, but she knew that Renji's feelings for Rukia were beyond platonic standards. For quite some time, Momo knew that Renji decided to work towards joining squad six because he wanted to prove to Byakuya that he was worthy of his sister. While it sounded noble, the only loophole was that Rukia's heart was with another already. Ichigo had won Rukia's heart when they were separated.
And she couldn't think of anywhere she'd rather be than with Ichigo...
"I'm trying not to. I just want to focus on being positive and not having any worries. On the bright side, the first thing I'll be doing is shopping." Rukia made sure that Sode no Shirayuki was tightly tied to her side.
"You're seriously going to go through with Rangiku's suggestion?" Momo tried not to say anything too loudly, seeing as the squad six captain was due to make an appearance before his sister left.
Rukia giggled at Momo's somewhat disturbed look. "I mean, I'm not really that spontaneous, for obvious reasons, so it gives me an opportunity to not breath in the air of prudish, old people in my family."
"Ah, Rukia! You've made it." Both women could hear the Captain Commander approaching them with Byakuya not too far behind.
Rukia had to resist the urge to roll her eyes. Captain Kyoraku was unique, but it wasn't very Kuchiki-like to show personal disdain of others. "We've been waiting here for a good twenty minutes, sir."
"If anything, you made it." Momo giggled, letting her curly locks blow in the wind.
"Oh, goody! I made it before you left!" Rangiku appeared just behind Momo, "Now, do you have the con-, snacks I packed for you?"
Rukia felt a wave of relief go over her. If her brother heard anything related to condoms, sex, or anything of the like, he would lock her away in the Kuchiki family home and never let her see the light of day again. She could imagine him making a personal trip to the World of the Living to kill Ichigo and demolish his dead corpse.
Poor strawberry…, Byakuya would love making him squirm.
"Yeah, I think you packed her enough snacks, Ran." Momo nearly choked on her spit, trying not to let out a laugh with Byakuya right in plain sight. Rangiku bit her lip to hold in her laughter in front of the two male captains.
"Thank you, Ran. I'm pretty sure my snacks will come in handy." Rukia tried her best to not let the awkward tension get the better of her.
"Not that your nourishment isn't important-," The squad six captain tried to begin his sentence, but heard an obnoxious snort from Rangiku, who had tears strolling down her face from holding in her laughter. Momo cleared her throat and turned her attention away.
"As I was saying, just be mindful and observant. I know you are more than capable of taking care of yourself…," The normally reserved captain was at a loss of thought. He was at a rather awkward transition with his sister, not knowing if he should sound less parental or more relaxed.
"I'll be fine, brother. I know you're…apprehensive, but Ichigo and his family are amazing people. I'm in safe hands." Rukia gave him a genuine smile.
"I'll always be here, Rukia, should you ever need me." He gave her a brief hug and quickly disappeared.
"I've never seen you two hug before." Rangiku turned her attention to the very short lieutenant.
"He never used to feel comfortable displaying his affection as my sibling in public. But I like the fact that he's trying to be my brother, and not so much a parent anymore." Rukia did one last check to see if the condoms Rangiku had stashed in her shihakusho.
"Be safe, KiKi! Let us know when you're settled. I'm sure Byakuya will love knowing that you're comfortable." Momo gave her a gentle squeeze.
"Make sure you use the strawberry flavored ones first. I heard they're the best." Rangiku whispered, giving her a quick pat on the shoulder.
"Rukia, it's time dear." Captain Kyoraku watched the Senkaimon open, watching as the young lieutenant began her journey to the other dimension.
As she took her first few steps, Rukia had wondered what the young teen looked like now. She imagined that he still grew another few inches and was almost six foot, had his killer eight pack, the sides of his hips that were contoured so nicely, his deltoids, arms.
Uggghhhh, I'm obsessed with that body! It's a crime to look that good!
She had to refrain from drooling, but the strawberry was a freaking God! The washboard abs are what had her buckling at the knees every time. Rukia thought about how much she had changed too. Her body went from looking like a twelve-year old to a woman's overnight, or so it seemed. Like Rangiku mentioned, she finally had decent sized breasts for someone of her height and small size. Her butt and thighs were more toned, but weren't overly large like Rangiku's. Rukia had grown into her hips, but it was more noticeable because she always had a slim waist.
Noticing that her path was getting a bit unstable because of her spirit energy fluctuating, Rukia did her best to keep her mind on actually getting out of the Senkaimon and into the World of the Living safely. This was surely going to be an interesting time with the strawberry she had come to love, she just hoped she'd be ready for the ride.
Well, after not having barely enough time to breath in between school and working, this first chapter is finally done. I hope you guys enjoyed this and that it's not too bad, since this is my first Bleach fanfic ever. Don't forget to review and tell me how things are going. Pros, needs improvement, etc. Thanks again guys!
Much love,
Cherries