Disclaimer: Do not own BLEACH anime or BLEACH manga, nor am I in any ways related with the owner of BLEACH.
Things happened quickly. The surroundings shifted from winter to spring. The war left a scar in everyone's heart and now gazed on what was left of Karakura town.
"It's finally over" Rukia sighed. No more fights, no more burdens. Back to normal.
But what was the definition of "normal" again? The fight had been going on for four years, though it felt like an eternity since someone had experience anything "normal" in their lives. Everyone had given their effort in protecting something or someone they wanted to protect, tossing away everything that was defined as "normal".
"This town has endured so much pain, and it will still need our protection from today", Toshiro calmly told Rukia while gazing towards the town. "Maybe it was not a happy ending for us Gotei 13, but your ending is determined on what you want to do onwards" he added and gave Rukia a warm glance. All the remaining Gotei captains stood not far from Rukia and Toshiro, with a look in their eyes. Not the look of victory, as their fellow shinigamis had fallen during the battle, nor was it the look of defeat as the town was protected and the enemy had vanished for forever.
"This mission is over. We will head back to Seretei" Yamamoto said as an order. Even the old man could not stand properly; neither did he request a helping hand from the other captains.
Byakuya glanced at his little sister, before turning his face to Ichigo. "Say your farewells" he stated firmly to Ichigo. Looking at him straight in the eyes, Ichigo didn't know what was worse. The wounds he substained from the battle or saying farewell. Byakuya did not need to explain to Ichigo, as Ichigo knew himself that Rukia no longer was needed in Karakura town.
"Rukia", Ichigo called out. There is no excuse. I will not be the excuse either. Just let her go.
"Bakamono! Why are you not being healed by Orihime?" Rukia bluntly shouted back at him.
"I guess this is our farewell", Ichigo replied while looking straight into Rukia's eyes.
This caught Rukia by surprise. She tried to pull out a smile, but her eyes showed a different emotion. Their shadows came closer towards each other, Rukia now stood infront of the boy who was her companion for four years.
"What the hell are you talking about?" Rukia screamed and kicked Ichigo down.
"I will escort you back to your room after Orihime has healed you. For now, do not talk about farewells", she said and helped Ichigo up.
Ichigo took her hand, which had gotten paler but still the warmth flowed into Ichigo's heart. Ready or not, he wanted Rukia to make her own decision as he will no longer be the excuse for her to stay in this town.
I drove myself crazy thinking of the future without her hand.