Author's Note: I have edited this fic again to fix all the spelling and hopefully the grammar mistakes. When I was watching the souls society arc, Rukia's scenes were just so sad. This is my view of her thoughts. Thanks to all who read and hope you like it.
Disclaimer- I do not own bleach. I'm just having some fun with the characters.
I am ready.
I am ready. I am at peace. I have done everything that I need to do. I keep telling myself these things because that is what I want myself to believe.
When I took that mission, those months ago, I had no idea what was going to happen. I didn't realize that my beliefs would be tested and my priorities would change so drastically. Then I met him.
It was Ichigo. As far as first impressions go, I don't think ours was very good. I never realized that you would ever be able to see me. I didn't even consider that you would try to get in my way. Then in order to save the people I promised to protect from the hollows, I transferred my power to you. I never expected you to keep it, even as I tried to keep a low profile while living in your closet. As I think back on this it makes me smile. You were so fiercely protective of the people you care about. I could see it even then.
Over time I came to know you for the person that you are and not for the annoying, troublemaker you appear to be. You didn't understand the way of Soul Society. You had no way of knowing that the act of my transferring my power to you was a punishable offence. I was glad you didn't know. I didn't want to add to your burdens, so I kept this from you in the hopes that you wouldn't ever need to know. You wanted power to protect those you cared for. I understand how you feel, and I was proud to help you in your task. I never expected to become one of those wonderful people whom you cared for.
I know you came here to save me. However false your hope of succeeding is. I know you did this because you think that you owe me for something. But that can't be further from the truth. Ichigo, it is I who should be thanking you. You showed me friendship, amity, and camaraderie that I have only ever experienced from Kaien-dono. You may never know what that has meant to me, but I do and I thank you for that.
I am ready. I am at peace. I have done everything that I need to do. No, that is not true, but tomorrow before I die, I will make my final request. That you will be returned to the real world unharmed.
With that request made: I will be ready. I will be at peace. I will have done everything that I needed to do. And I will meet my destiny with a steady mind and a full heart.
Reviews are welcome and appreciated. Thank you for reading. I hope you enjoyed it.