BLEACH: Listen To Your Heart
A/N: I must apologize for this extremely late update. I've been having trouble with my computer again! The same problem! I tried to clean it out again, but it still didn't turn on. It's Windows XP 1998-2001 version. *sigh* So old. But still. It won't go past the load screen. It freezes, and then just...won't go. *smacks head* I hate computers. lol. But still. I hope you guys enjoy this...though I know you might hate me by the end of the chapter! XD Read on, dearest fans!
CHAPTER 20: Hope
PREVIOUSLY:
Ichigo swallowed, but his throat was suddenly drier than a desert. 'What have I done?' Ichigo thought. He knew he was caught…and by the look of things, Yamamoto was not pleased. No, he was far from 'not pleased'. His large, white eyebrows were drawn together in a scowl, and the white-haired lieutenant had his hand on his sword. Ichigo suddenly saw black-clad men appear all around him…and he recognized them as agents of the Punishment/Discipline force. The gig was up, he realized. He was screwed. But, on top of that, Rukia would be caught unless he acted immediately.
He took a deep breath, and saw everyone around him tense. He whipped out Tensa Zangetsu, and roared, "RUN!" Then, he brought Tensa Zangetsu up and blocked a blow from one of the black-clad agents. He cursed, as one slipped past him and slashed open his back. He yelled one last time, as his red blood sprayed across the polished wooden floor. "RUN, RUKIA!"
CONTINUATION:
Rukia was standing next to Byakuya, leaning against the wooden railing of the hallway, waiting for Ichigo to finish his negotiations. Byakuya had attempted to convince her to wait with him in his office, but she had politely refused. She wanted to wait for Ichigo here…so she would be the first thing he saw after such a stressful situation. She was aware of how nerve-racking it would be to talk to the Captain-General when the fate of his 'race' rested on his shoulder.
"I believe that your guard did a good job today. His strength is surprising." Byakuya said, breaking the brief silence. She smiled at her brother, glad that he was at least attempting to not be so distant.
"Yes, he's still the weakest of them all, though. Can you believe that? If he's that strong, imagine how strong all of the others are!" She said. Byakuya nodded slowly.
"That is indeed a very disconcerting thought." Byakuya said, his eyebrows drawing together in a slight frown. "What's more disconcerting is his level of growth. From months ago, when he was born…to now. In a matter of months, he's gained Bankai, and his second Bankai Phase as well. His potential is frightening." Byakuya said softly, glancing at the wooden doors.
"Yes…" Rukia admitted. "But even with his strength, he's not cruel. He does what he has to in order to protect those he cares about." She said, defending Ichigo. Byakuya nodded.
"Yes. So I've seen. I wasn't implying that he would abuse his power. I was just stating how disconcerting it is that he gains power so quickly. It wasn't but a few weeks ago that he reached Captain-level power…and now he's surpassed that level." Byakuya said, reassuring Rukia. She nodded, understanding.
They were silent for a moment, before Byakuya pursed his lips. "Rukia…what would you do for Ichigo?" He cast a quick glance at the guards, who were a good fifteen feet away, and added, "If he were still alive?" He was so smooth, Rukia would have thought the pause was planned…if she hadn't have known better. Byakuya's eyes darted to the door again, and then back to her.
She bit her lower lip for a moment, glancing at the ground. "I would do anything for him." She murmured. She felt Byakuya's hand touch her shoulder, and she looked up at him. Usually he forbade physical contact…though he was getting better at allowing it.
"Even if it were to flee a battle? If he wanted you to run away from something you couldn't defeat or hope to win…would you?" He asked. She blinked, puzzled.
"It would be difficult…" She said carefully, making sure she meant what she was saying. "But I would do it if he told me to. I trust him to know what I can or can't handle." She said. Byakuya nodded. "Good."
She opened her mouth to speak, but closed her mouth and frowned. She opened her mouth a second time, and asked, "Why do you ask?"
"Because…that's what you're required to do now." Byakuya said, his face no longer emotionless. His eyes were tortured, showing the depth of his emotion, and she recognized the sadness. It was the same sadness she had seen once, when he thought of Hisana…her sister and his deceased wife.
"What? What do you mean?" Rukia asked. As if in answer to her question, she heard a yell from inside of the meeting hall.
"RUN!"
She recognized Ichigo's voice immediately, or rather she recognized the Hollow voice, and her hand darted to her Zanpakuto. "We must leave now, Rukia." Byakuya said, his voice soft.
"RUN, RUKIA!" She heard Ichigo yell again…and she looked up at her brother. "What's going on?" She asked, preparing to draw her sword and run to assist Ichigo.
Suddenly, she was flying. Byakuya had grabbed her into his arms, and flash-stepped away. As the wind whistled past them, he said, "Ichigo made me promise that if he was found out…I would get you away from here."
"Let me down! We can go back and get him!" Rukia cried, straining against Byakuya's impossibly strong arms. He held her bridal style, but his arms were like vices.
"Rukia, contain yourself." He said softly, as he landed on a rooftop and flash-stepped again. "I sensed twelve cloaked Reiatsu in that room, and I believe they were from the Punishment/Discipline division. Not even I could take them, Captain-General Yamamoto, and his Lieutenant long enough for Ichigo to flee."
"Please…" Rukia whispered, tears stinging her eyes. Byakuya looked down at her, his gaze tortured. "I can't. I promised him I would get you safely to the Vaizard."
Tears streamed down her eyes, and she whimpered, "Ichigo!"
Byakuya landed gently, in front of the Kuchiki gate, and summoned two Hell Butterflies. He stepped into the gate, as Rukia sobbed into his Captain's coat. He could almost see it, in his mind, Ichigo valiantly fighting off the agents even now. He probably would take down two or three…but he would succumb under the sheer numbers. Byakuya cast a glance down at Rukia, who now had one hand inside of her Shihakusho. She pulled out the Soul Pager Ichigo had given her, and was trying to go through the list of contacts. Tears were streaming down her cheeks, overflowing from her eyes, and dripping onto her Shihakusho.
Byakuya stepped out of the gate, having kept in mind his destination so he would appear there. He glanced around, and nodded. They were in front of the Kurosaki Household. He knew that Rukia's Gigai, that had been left alone down in the courtyard of Yurimoto's house, would only cause a minor distraction. Once Ichigo was dead or detained, they would chase Rukia, only to find her Gigai. They would come here, searching for her…and he hoped he had enough time to make it to the Vaizard before they found the Gigai.
"Shinji?" Rukia sobbed, holding the phone to her ear. Byakuya could hear the voice of the leader slightly, demanding to know what was wrong.
"They've got Ichigo." She cried, and sobbed harder.
"Rukia, where do I need to go?" Byakuya asked softly. Rukia pointed and said, "Go that way…until you get to a large group of warehouses…" She sobbed, and the voice on the phone asked who she was talking to.
"Byakuya. Ichigo…made him promise…to take me to you." Rukia sobbed. Byakuya flash-stepped, scanning his surroundings quickly. He felt several Reiatsu's react to the sudden appearance of his. He could identify Kisuke Urahara's, his assorted crew, several of the Ryoka…and a few Shinigami who were here. He could even feel Hitsugaya's. Hitsugaya was on the move towards him, obviously going to demand to know why Byakuya was back in the world of the Living. Byakuya pushed himself to the limit as he soared over Karakura town.
"No, Byakuya said…he said there were twelve different reiatsu's in the room with Ichigo…including the Captain-General and his lieutenant." Rukia choked out, and Byakuya winced as he heard the Vaizard leader curse loudly.
He had to Shunpo once more, before he reached the large group of warehouses Rukia had said. "No, I don't think he'll survive." Rukia whispered, and then she pointed a trembling hand at a specific warehouse.
Byakuya flash-stepped once, and appeared directly in front of a warehouse. He blinked, surprised, as an orange barrier seemed to flash into existence a few inches in front of him. "We're here." Rukia spoke into the phone.
Instantly, the warehouse door opened, and one man whom Byakuya recognized appeared. "Shinji Hirako." Byakuya breathed, as the blond ran to the Barrier. He made a hand motion, and a bubble appeared in the orange barrier. Byakuya stepped through immediately, and the bubble closed behind him.
Shinji, back when Byakuya had known him, had had long blond hair…long enough to rival Ukitake's. But now, it was cut short, and it radically changed his looks. Shinji wore black slacks, a yellowish-gold long sleeved dress shirt, and a black and gold striped tie. He was flipping shut his phone, and he shoved it in his pocket. Rukia did the same, and Byakuya said, "I have to go, before they realize what I've done." Byakuya said. Shinji regarded him coolly, and nodded.
Byakuya transferred Rukia to Shinji's arms, and prepared to leave. He paused, after he turned and was about to jump. "Rukia…I promise, if Ichigo is still alive, I will do whatever it takes to free him." He said, and he heard her start crying even harder. He said, "Shinji…you need to relocate. I would suggest staying in this town. They wouldn't expect you to stay in this town, after what has happened. Just relocate to a different area. I suggest you do it as soon as you can, before the Secret Remote Squad come barging through." Then, he flash-stepped away.
*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*
Ichigo woke, sorer than he had ever been in his entire life. Even more sore than when he had been sliced up by Zaraki. He groaned, and fought to open his eyes. He heard a gasp, and several quiet voices start whispering. He opened his eyes, but everything was fuzzy. All he could see was white.
"Mr. Ichigo!" A voice whispered excitedly. Ichigo saw a dark blob enter his line of sight, and blinked rapidly until the features became visible.
"Hanataro!" Ichigo gasped, as he saw the tearful Shinigami.
"I thought you were dead! I was so glad when they told me you were alive, even if you were severely wounded!" Hanataro cried. Tears were starting to leak down Hanataro's cheeks. Ichigo instantly felt horrible for having hurt Hanataro.
"I'm sorry I hurt you, buddy. I…I had to fake my death, or I'd end up…well, like this." Ichigo said, and tried to sit up. But, his wrists were shackled in thick cuffs. He blinked, as Hanataro eagerly helped him up. He examined himself, and realized he was as bandaged up as when he had tried to rescue Rukia from execution. He almost laughed. But then he remembered how badly he had been cut up from resisting capture. He shivered, and glanced around. He was in a jail cell, on the only cot in the quite large and spacious cell. There was a chair in the middle of the cell as well, and Ichigo frowned. He hadn't been put in a cell before…and he didn't like it.
"Hanataro…back up." Ichigo warned. The fools. Had they really thought he could be kept prisoner with some measly shackles? He raised his hands as Hanataro stumbled backwards, a confused look on his face. He tried to pull on his power, to form a Cero, but stopped when he realized he couldn't feel his spiritual energy.
"What?" Ichigo muttered, and Hanataro cautiously walked forward. "Those cuffs…they cut off any spiritual energy in a person." He said, his face apologetic.
"Ah, that bites." Ichigo sighed, and popped his neck. "You know…I ought to just hire you. It seems every time I get bashed up here, you're the one to heal me." Ichigo said, smiling at his friend.
Hanataro smiled, laughing slightly even though a tear escaped from his eyes. "I…I missed you." He suddenly said, and Ichigo's smile died. He looked down, ashamed. "I'm really sorry, Hanataro." He murmured.
"No, don't apologize! I understand why you needed to…" Hanataro said, and sat next to Ichigo on the cot. Ichigo dimly realized he was in a new Shihakusho…without any cuts or stains. The top was pulled back so that Hanataro could work on his severely damaged chest…but Ichigo was glad he was at least partially clothed.
"It's just, a lot of us thought you were really dead." Hanataro murmured. Ichigo glanced around, and raised an eyebrow. Outside his cell were three Shinigami, glaring at him. He didn't doubt that they were his guards, but he bet even with his reiatsu-sealing cuffs on…he could beat them.
"Well…I'm not dead. Yet." Ichigo said, lamely attempting a joke. Hanataro's lip quivered, however, and Ichigo sighed. "So do you know everything?" Ichigo asked.
"Yes. They've explained a little bit about how you were half-Hollow and half-Shinigami, how you joined up with a group of traitors, like you, named 'Vaizards'. It was confusing, how they said you helped kill a man convicted of treason for attacking Ms. Rukia…but they're still going to kill you." Hanataro whispered.
Ichigo pursed his lips. "So…when am I scheduled to be executed?" He asked.
"They don't know. They're considering doing several things: making a new Soukyouku, banishing you to Hueco Mundo with the reiatsu-sealing cuffs still on, or just killing you without a Soukyouku." Hanataro said, his voice trembling. "So until they decide on the method…they won't know when. The Ruling Families, along with Captain-General Yamamoto, are all discussing it."
"LET ME THROUGH, DAMMIT!" A voice roared, and Ichigo and Hanataro both looked up towards the doors that led to this jail area. The doors flew open, and the three guards unsheathed their Zanpakuto.
"Lieutenant Abarai!" They cried in unison, bowing and sheathing their swords. Renji strode in, glaring. Ichigo blinked, mildly surprised, and Renji stormed past the guards and to the bars of the cell. Renji paused when he saw Ichigo and Hanataro sitting on the cot, and then sighed.
"You're okay." Renji breathed, and rested his forehead against the bars. Ichigo raised his eyebrows, surprised.
"Renji…" Ichigo said, and Renji looked up.
"Thanks, Hanataro. Looks like you haven't lost your touch." Renji complimented, and Hanataro nodded. "So, he's fine?" He asked.
"Yes. He's not bleeding anymore, and his cuts are healed…but his bruises will need to heal on their own time." Hanataro reported, standing and walking to the bars.
"Good. Thanks a bunch, 'Taro." Renji said. Hanataro bowed. "I was glad to do it." Hanataro replied.
"Hey, Ichigo, you dumbass!" Renji called, glaring at Ichigo. Ichigo rolled his eyes. "Yeah, Renji, you redheaded bastard?" He called back. A vein throbbed on Renji's forehead.
"Do you think you're up for some visitors?" Renji asked, and Ichigo blinked in surprise.
"Visitors?" He asked, and Renji grinned. "Yeah. When news got 'round that you were alive…you'd be surprised at how many people started to line up so they could visit." He laughed, and Ichigo raised an eyebrow.
"Really?" He asked.
Renji nodded. "Really. Now, you guards might wanna make some room. It's not that big in here…and there are a lot of people who wanna see him." Renji said, turning to the guards. The Guards looked confused, and Ichigo laughed. "Yeah right. There aren't that many people."
******
Ichigo stared, dumbfounded. The area in front of his cell was packed, though that wasn't really much of an accomplishment, and he recognized every face in the room. Ganju and Kukkaku Shiba along with their large Twin companions (Ichigo couldn't remember their strange names), Ikkaku Madarame, Yumichika, Yachiru, Kenpachi Zaraki, Nanao, Isane, Ukitake, Renji, Rangiku Matsumoto, Toushiro Hitsugaya, Kyouraku, Kira Izuru, Shuhei Asagi (though Ichigo only knew him from the few weeks of recovery), and Iba Tetsuzaemon (a friend of Ikkaku's that Ichigo had been introduced to during the weeks of recovery). Ichigo shook his head, blinked, but when he looked they were still there.
Everyone was talking at once, except for Ukitake and Hitsugaya and Kyouraku. Those three Captains were silent…staring at Ichigo. Ichigo stood, and turned to Hanataro. "Could you put the Shihakusho over my shoulders?" He asked, and Hanataro nodded. He lifted the Shihakusho's top, and draped it over Ichigo's shoulders, and Ichigo nodded. "Thanks."
"Everyone, seriously…shut up!" Renji roared, and finally…everyone quieted.
"I know we're all curious, and wanna know everything that's happened…but he can't frickin' hear our questions if we're too busy tryin' to talk over each other!" Renji said. "Why don't we just ask Ichigo one question at a time, and start with rank or somethin'? The Captain's should go first." Renji said.
"Hmph. So where does that leave me?" Everyone heard Ganju mumble.
Ichigo couldn't help but rib, "Probably dead-last…as usual."
"WHY YOU!" Ganju roared, and threw himself at the bars. Kukkaku whacked Ganju on the head and yelled, "Knock it off!" Ganju held his head, and whimpered, "Yes, ma'am."
"Okay…if anyone doesn't have objections…I'd like to ask a question." Jushiro Ukitake said. Everyone was silent. "Thank you. Now…do you know if Rukia is safe? We haven't been able to find her, thank gods, but I'm worried." Jushiro asked.
"Yes. She's safe. She's currently with the others of my kind." Ichigo said, and several people started to murmur.
"I'm next." Kenpachi grated out. Yachiru popped up from his back, yelling, "Go, Kenny!" Several people muttered about how annoying she was.
"Do you think they'd let you fight before you die?" Kenpachi asked, grinning viciously. Everyone groaned at his question. Ichigo laughed nervously, at the thought of fighting Kenpachi again. "Uh…ahaha…I don't know."
"Hmph. That's boring." Kenpachi said, frowning. "Fine then."
Kyouraku raised his hand, a lazy smile on his lips. "Mind if I ask a question?"
Ichigo nodded at the Captain. "Yeah, go ahead."
"Well…so we all don't have to keep asking generic questions, and get bored standing here…will you just explain everything from the beginning? How you came to be a Hollow, and so on and so forth?" Kyouraku asked, and Ichigo nodded.
"Sure. But you all might wanna sit down or something. It might be a long story." Ichigo said. He stretched, popped his neck, and sighed. "Okay. It all started one night, a few months ago. I was up in my room, bringing Rukia dinner…because she slept in my closet. She wasn't there…"
********
Ichigo told them just about everything, excluding Chad and Orihime and Uryu's involvement…in case the Captain's decided to try to somehow punish them. He didn't tell of his father being a Shinigami, or the specific number of the Vaizard. He kept anything Vaizard-related very vague...he wouldn't betray his family.
When Ichigo told of the fight with Renji, Kenpachi, and Byakuya, people didn't bother to interrupt. Most of them hadn't witnessed these battles for themselves, so they wanted to hear about them. When Kenpachi listened to the tale of his and Ichigo's battle, he licked his lips. "Hmmm…that was a great fight." He chuckled.
Ichigo told them slightly of his and Rukia's involvement, nothing too personal…just that they had decided they were an item. They were together, and she had helped him escape. They already knew that much, however, and he refused to elaborate on anything more.
He ended his story with what had happened earlier, him being cut apart and yelling for Rukia to run. He hadn't said that Byakuya had taken her…just that he had told her to run, and that he knew she was with the Vaizard now. At the end, everyone was silent.
"So, you're part human, part Shinigami, part Hollow?" Yumichika asked suddenly.
"Yeah, that's about right." Ichigo said. He had decided to sit in the chair in the middle of the cell sometime during his tale, because his legs grew tired.
"Hm. What an ugly mixture." Yumichika murmured.
"So, won't your buddies come to bust you out?" Ikkaku asked, frowning.
"I hope not. If they do, there would be a lot of casualties…" Ichigo murmured.
"Let me guess. On our side?" Shuhei Asagi asked sarcastically.
"Yes. I'd hate to see you guys try to fight off the Vaizard. I have trouble enough fighting them during sparring sessions…but you guys wouldn't stand a chance if they were serious." Ichigo replied, glaring at the Lieutenant.
"You weren't so tough to bring down." Iba pointed out. Ichigo scowled even more.
"I'm the weakest of the Vaizard, and the newest, remember? I still managed to bring down six men before the remaining six finished me, though. Imagine what a few ex-captain's and lieutenants could do." Ichigo said, glaring at Iba.
"Besides…he was more worried about tying them up so Rukia could escape. He could have killed the agents, but he was focusing on distracting them." Hitsugaya said. Everyone looked at the young captain, who had his arms crossed over his chest and his eyes closed. "The men he did stab, he only disabled. Non-life threatening wounds were inflicted, but it was enough to disable the six men. I saw the video." Hitsugaya explained.
"That's so sweet." Matsumoto crooned, and Hitsugaya opened his eyes. "You should have escaped while you could, Ichigo. Now things will be worse off for everyone."
Ichigo glared. "No offense, but at that moment I was focusing on not being hacked apart. I couldn't have escaped anyways, not with the Captain-General there. If he's half as strong as I've heard…I wouldn't have made it out alive. Besides, things aren't worse off for anyone but me. The Vaizard have relocated by now, they're off the radar as they've always been, and Rukia's safe. My family and friends think I'm dead, and you all know I'm a half-Hollow. Some of you want me dead, some of you don't, so how is that worse off?" Ichigo retorted.
Ganju spoke up. "I don't want you dead. Sure, you're annoying, but I don't want you dead."
"I'd second that." Renji snorted. "Especially on the annoying part."
"Enough." Ukitake called, and coughed once. "Ichigo…the fact remains that you never should have come back. What would possess you to run straight into the arms of those who wish to kill you?"
"The fact that Rukia needed someone strong to take out Yurimoto." Ichigo fired back. He sighed. "And I wanted to prove that we Vaizard aren't evil. We're Soul Reapers, or ex-Soul Reapers for that matter, and we're people. Just because we have Hollow masks and powers, doesn't mean we're evil. I'm still the same I've always been." Ichigo said, raising his chin defiantly. "Vaizard or not, Hollow or not…I'm still Ichigo Kurosaki."
Suddenly, the prison doors opened. Byakuya Kuchiki swept into the room regally, his half-lidded eyes giving him the appearance of being bored. Ichigo recognized the Kuchiki mask, and he wondered what was going on.
"It's been decided." Byakuya said, so everyone could hear. A black butterfly fluttered into the room, and suddenly the voice of Captain-General Yamamoto filled everyone's head.
"The ex-Substitute Shinigami, and traitor, Ichigo Kurosaki's punishment has been decided. For the murder of several Kuchiki Shinigami early in the day, as well as resisting Purification, and being a Hollow Entity…Ichigo Kurosaki is sentenced to be banished to the white sands of Hueco Mundo…the Hollow World. His banishment will take place within the next day, so we may prepare to send him safely to Hueco Mundo using a transportation Kido. That is all." Yamamoto's voice growled, and then the butterfly flew off to spread the message elsewhere.
Ichigo felt his mouth drop open slightly, and his eyes widened. Everyone was silent, staring in shock at Ichigo. Ichigo blinked, too shocked to say anything. He was being banished to the Hollow World, where he would be killed not mercifully quick by Shinigami…but torn to pieces by Hollows.
"I didn't murder them." Ichigo whispered, as several people whispered amongst themselves.
"I know that. I pled for them to drop that charge, but I was outnumbered." Byakuya said softly. "You killed them to protect yourself, as well as Rukia and several other captains. But, the Royal family council overrode my vote."
"That…that's not fair! At least execute him in an old-fashioned style! It would be painless…unlike going to Hueco Mundo! It's not fair! Don't send him there!" Hanataro cried, running up to the bars.
"Actually, they believe it is fair." Byakuya said. "They believe that since he's part Hollow…he should go where he 'belongs'."
"He belongs with his family, back in the World of the Living!" Ganju roared, and several people agreed.
"The Captain-General says that the matter is closed. No complaints, nor protests, will be heard." Byakuya said. "Your fate…is decided." Then, he turned and left.
----------------------
"Hello?"
Shinji stood next to Rukia, who was laying on Ichigo's bed. His phone had just rang twice, before he answered.
"Yeah…hold on." Shinji said. Rukia had lain in bed almost the entire day, crying. "It's Urahara." Shinji told her. "GUYS!" He yelled, covering the phone mic.
The room was suddenly filled by Vaizard, as they stood close to Shinji. "What's with the yelling?" Hiyori demanded.
"It's Urahara." Shinji said, gesturing to his phone. "He says he has some news, and wants to be on speakerphone."
"Well, then put him on, dumbass!" Hiyori said.
Shinji complied, pressing a button on the phone. "Okay, Urahara…you're on."
"Goody. Everyone can hear me?" Urahara asked, his voice deceptively cheerful. Rukia wondered how he could stand to be so cheerful, considering Ichigo was dead.
"Yes." Hiyori replied for them all.
"Good. Are you doing well, Hiyori?" Urahara asked kindly, his voice more serious.
"As good as can be expected after what we've heard." Hiyori said gruffly.
"Ah…well, about that. That's why I called." Urahara said. Rukia looked at the phone, though she didn't feel very interested.
"Spit it out, then." Hiyori snapped. Urahara chuckled, and Hiyori fought back a smile. Rukia realized, this is how it must have been for a long time and this was how their relationship worked.
"Well, Yoruichi just sent me a letter from Soul Society, express delivered via Secret Remote Squad Messenger." Urahara said, and Rukia listened dully.
"She says that Ichigo is still alive." Urahara said, and almost everyone gasped. Rukia sat up, her eyes wide.
"What?" She asked, and Urahara said, "Oh, Rukia…I'm so pleased to hear you."
"Ichigo's alive?" She asked, and Urahara's voice grew completely serious.
"He was severely wounded, almost dead. From what Yoruichi's told me, she says he disabled six Discipline agents, but the other six overwhelmed him. She thinks that he could have killed them, but she has a feeling he was buying Byakuya time to get you safely to the Vaizard, Rukia." Urahara said. Rukia closed her eyes, feeling more alive than ever. He was still alive. "The fool." She whispered affectionately.
"However…the Ruling families have met with the Captain-General, and they've reached a verdict. Ichigo's punishment has been decided. Within the next day, Ichigo will be banished to Hueco Mundo…" Urahara said, and Rukia's eyes snapped open once more.
"No!" She gasped.
"I'm afraid so…" Urahara said, and Shinji pursed his lips.
"Well, that's good." Shinji said.
"Good? Good?! How is that GOOD?!" Rukia cried, feeling the little hope she had suddenly received explode into thousands of pieces…along with her heart.
"He'll be banished, alone on the sands of Hueco Mundo! The Hollows will sense his spiritual power, and eat him! They'll tear him to shreds in minutes!" She cried, burying her face in her hands, as the images of him being torn to pieces by the Hollows filled her mind. She could even see the white sands of Hueco Mundo becoming stained red as his blood was sprayed from his torn limbs.
"Rukia…that won't happen. Not if we can help it." Shinji said confidently.
"What plan do you have? I hope you don't plan to invade Soul Society…" Urahara said, and Shinji laughed.
"Please. As if we would go there? No…a few of us can use a move known as 'Garganta'. It's primarily a move from the Hollow Arsenal. It takes a lot of concentration, and a lot of Spiritual Energy…but I've mastered it. With it, I can rip a hole through the fabric of this world, and step in to Hueco Mundo. I can bring all of the Vaizard, and we can scour Hueco Mundo for him. If you give us rough coordinates…we can get even closer to where he'll be transported, and then we can retrieve him before a Hollow can hope to even catch his scent." Shinji said, his eyes shining with excitement.
"You're sure?" Urahara asked, surprised.
"I suggested it, didn't I?" Shinji retorted.
"Of course. My apologies." Urahara said, placating Shinji. "If you can do it…I'll have Yoruichi retrieve a rough estimate of where he'll be transported to. Though, I'm sure the Hollows will sense the Spiritual Energy that will be used to transport him, so you'll have to be extremely fast." Urahara said.
"This is a lucky turn of events." Shinji said, grinning. "We'll be able to find him quickly, and bring him home without any trouble!" He said, and Urahara agreed.
"It's very lucky. I'll call you again with the rough estimate of his location. Urahara out." Urahara said.
"It's not a radio. Just say goodbye!" Hiyori snapped.
"Oh. Well, Goodbye!" Urahara chirped, and Shinji ended the call.
"That man." Hiyori sighed. "You can't live with him, and you can't live without him."
"Can…can you really do what you say you can? You know how to get to Hueco Mundo, and how to find him that fast?" Rukia whispered, looking up at Shinji. Shinji looked down at her, a kind smile on his face.
"Yeah. While perfecting Garganta, I mapped out Hueco Mundo. So, I know where mostly everything is. I can get is within one Ri (2.4 miles) of the target, and the rest is up to us finding him. We're all Shunpo Masters here, we've had decades to perfect it, and we can cover the area faster with all of us there. Once one of us has found him, we'll fire off a blast in the sky, locating our position. Once we're all gathered, I'll bring us back here. We save Ichigo, get to stretch our legs a bit, end of story." Shinji said, reassuring her. She breathed a sigh of relief. If there was anyone in the world that she would trust more than her brother, Ichigo, or Renji…it would be Shinji, the leader of the Vaizard.
"Now, get some rest, Rukia. Compose yourself, get cleaned up…and get ready to see Ichigo. It wouldn't do for you to be all raggedy and messy and worried-looking when he gets back." Shinji said, and turned to Hachi.
"Why don't you fix her up some of your specialty pasta, so she can have some when she gets out of the shower?" Shinji suggested, and Hachi nodded.
"Of course." Hachi said, and lumbered out of the room. "Go ahead and use Ichigo's bathroom." Shinji said, and all of the Vaizard turned and left, giving her some privacy. Lisa, the last one out of the room, paused before she shut the door behind her. (They had replaced the door, after they had blasted it open to get to Ichigo after the whole previous incident with Ichigo struggling with his Hollow.)
"Get some rest. He'll be even happier if he sees you're in good condition, and safe." She said, and then shut the door. Rukia nodded, and wiped away a stray tear. "Thank you…Ichigo. Thank you for staying alive." She whispered.
*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*
"And so, seeing as we cannot trust you not to attempt to escape…we will leave the restrictive cuffs on. You will be transported deep into Hueco Mundo, where there will be less Hollows. Through our studies, we've learned that Hollows tend to stay near the borders of Hueco Mundo, on the verge of entering the World of the Living. So, hopefully, you will avoid any Hollow's straight off." Mayuri said, guiding Ichigo down the halls of the prison compound. There were five Discipline agents as well, making sure Ichigo didn't try anything.
"Oh, gee. So I'll get to enjoy the view for a while, before I die." Ichigo said sarcastically.
"Well, would you prefer we drop you right into a nest of Hollows?" Mayuri replied, cackling.
"No. I'd rather you just chop off my head and get it over with." Ichigo sighed.
"Well, the bureaucrats feel they're being just. I'd be interested in doing experiments before we sent you…" Mayuri sighed. "But they wouldn't allow it."
"Thank the gods for some mercy." Ichigo muttered.
Ichigo had been unable to sleep for the past fifteen hours, as he sat alone in his cell. He had been thinking a lot…mainly thinking about Rukia. He wondered if the Vaizard would attempt to rescue him. He hoped not. He had already told the Shiba's, Renji, Eleventh Company, argued with Byakuya for about an hour, and everyone who had visited him…and told them not to bother with a rescue attempt. He didn't want them to get into any more trouble. He didn't know how, but somehow he would survive. Once he got the handcuffs off, he'd be able to defend himself from any Hollows, and he'd be able to find his way back to the World of the Living. Once there, he'd scour the world for the Vaizard and Rukia. He would be able to defend himself from any of Soul Society's goons, as he searched. He wouldn't allow them to take him again. The next time…he wouldn't be afraid to kill.
"Well, Mr. Kurosaki…" Mayuri said, as they stopped. Ichigo looked up, and saw that they were in front of a set of double doors.
"These are your last moments. Enjoy them." Mayuri said, and then stepped forward and opened the double doors. The Disciplinary Agents marched Ichigo out, and Ichigo blinked. He was in the middle of the Seireitei…in a giant courtyard. Countless Soul Reapers lined the roofs of the buildings surrounding the area, filled the courtyard, and were cheering as he was brought out. He saw at least fifteen masked men, and he instantly knew that they would be the ones to do the Transportation Kido. He saw all of the Captains in attendance, along with their Lieutenants. He was marched to the middle of the courtyard, and abruptly knocked onto his knees so he was on his knees before Ganryusai Yamamoto…the Captain-General.
Ichigo squinted his eyes, trying to keep the blinding morning sun from getting in his eyes. Yamamoto looked down at Ichigo, his eyes just barely visible underneath his massive eyebrows. Ichigo was thankful the old man was in front of him…he provided a shadow so Ichigo wouldn't have the sun in his eyes. Ichigo was also thankful for the Shihakusho top draped over his shoulders, keeping him protected from the crisp morning air.
The cheering continued for a few more minutes, though he heard a small number of people yelling for those cheering to shut up. He felt glad some people liked him. However, Yamamoto growled, "Quiet!" His voice carried far, without the use of a microphone.
The cheers died immediately, and Ichigo glanced around. He met the eyes of almost every Captain…Soi Fong, who met his gaze but then looked away. He met Retsu Unohana's gaze, who didn't look away. Hanataro was at her side, with her lieutenant Isane. Ichigo nodded at Hanataro, and Hanataro wiped away tears in his eyes. He moved on to Byakuya and Renji, who met his gaze solidly. Renji seemed to be battling with the urge to spring forward and fight…and Ichigo knew he would have if Ichigo hadn't requested him not to. Byakuya kept his gaze, and Ichigo knew he wanted to free Ichigo. Ichigo locked eyes with him…and then he looked on. Next was Komamura, who glared at Ichigo. Ichigo met Iba's gaze, though he couldn't be sure if Iba was glaring behind his sunglasses or not. He moved on to the next Captain, Kyouraku, and Kyouraku gave him a mournful gaze. Nanao did as well, when he met her glance. She turned her head, and he saw her wipe away a tear. Ichigo met Shuhei's gaze, but Shuhei's gaze was hard…and he didn't flinch from Ichigo's look. Ichigo then moved on to Toushiro and Rangiku…and both of them looked away. Finally, he made it to eleventh company. Kenpachi was standing there, looking sulky, while Yachiru openly cried while sitting on his shoulder. Ikkaku and Yumichika both stood at Kenpachi's sides…and they met Ichigo's gaze. He heard Ikkaku mutter, "It's not right. He won't be able to go down swinging. He'll be defenseless.." Then, he made it to Twelfth. Mayuri and Nemu met his gaze solidly, and Mayuri seemed bored. And last…he made it to Thirteenth company. Ukitake seemed even paler than usual, and his gaze was sad. At his side were his two ex-third seats, who were both recently promoted to Lieutenant to replace Rukia. They all looked morose, and then Ichigo returned his gaze to Yamamoto. Yamamoto stared down at him…and spoke.
"You've been charged with the murder of two Shinigami of the Noble Kuchiki family. You've also been charged with being a traitor, and being a Hollow Entity. And as such, you have resisted Purification." Yamamoto growled, his voice echoing around the courtyard. Ichigo clenched his jaw at the false accusation of murder, and wanted to scream at the old man.
"As punishment, you will be banished to Hueco Mundo…the Hollow World. As a Hollow resisting Purification, you will be devoured by your brethren, beyond Purification and redemption. You will be sent with your restrictive handcuffs, so you cannot escape. Once you are in Hueco Mundo, the other Hollows will undoubtedly sense the Spiritual Energy used to send you there…so they will head towards your position. If you wish to live longer, you can run…they will not be able to track your energy with the restrictive cuffs on. However, you will eventually be caught…and killed." Yamamoto said. Ichigo closed his eyes, and fought back the rising panic in his chest. This was it.
"Do you have any last words?" Yamamoto asked.
"Yes." Ichigo said, opening his eyes. He turned his head, and once again focused on meeting his friend's eyes. "When I became a Shinigami, I didn't realize everything it would entail. I only wanted to be able to protect my family. Thanks to Rukia, I realized that with my powers…I could protect not just my family, but everyone precious to me. When I came here, to rescue Rukia from being wrongfully executed," Here he paused and cast a glare at Yamamoto. Then, he returned his gaze to the Captains. Every person met his gaze and didn't look away. "I expected to find enemies. Instead…I found friends. Sure, I had to beat the shit out of you in the first place to get you to respect me…but you all became my friends." He said. "I don't regret anything I've done, except for hurting you guys. I wanna thank you for being my friends…and for making my life memorable." He said. He smiled at Hanataro and Renji. He was surprised to see Yoruichi appear at Byakuya's side as well, and he was even more surprised as he noticed her eyes were puffy and red…as if she had been crying. She tried to give him a confident smile…but he was sure it was an act.
"You were all there for me, and I thank you. I don't blame any of you for anything…I only blame you." Ichigo said, turning his gaze on Yamamoto. Yamamoto, to his credit, didn't flinch. "You were the one to sentence Rukia to death, when you could have stopped it. I had to interfere then to stop it. Now, you're sentencing me to death…when I've never been a threat to Soul Society. You're the problem here." Ichigo said. Gasps, shouts, and angry words filled the air at Ichigo's statements. "So…I promise all of you this…" He said, raising his voice.
"I promise you…I'll survive. I won't die. But…when Aizen comes to attack Soul Society with his Arrancar…I won't come to your aid. The Vaizard will not take part in your war." Ichigo swore, making sure he was heard by everyone. He looked around and saw his friend's shocked faces. "I'll sit back, and watch the Seireitei burn. Maybe Aizen's got the right idea. Destroy Soul Society…or at least the Captain-General. You've tried to kill me, but I've never been a threat. I've only wanted to help you, and you've been intent on destroying me." Ichigo said, and he heard Komamura growl. Yamamoto raised a hand and calmed the giant Captain. "I don't know how I'll get a hold of any of you…but, If you see how twisted Soul Society's rules are…I'll welcome you." Ichigo said. As soon as he was finished, angry shouts filled the air, and people started hurling insults at him.
"Enough!" Yamamoto called. The silence was immediate. "He has said what he wanted…now, we continue with his punishment." He growled. Cheers filled the air.
"Begin the transportation!" Yamamoto called, and the fifteen masked men took up their positions. They surrounded Ichigo in a large circle, and Yamamoto left the immediate area to stand in the line of Captains. The masked men faced Ichigo, and knelt on the ground. They started making symbols in the air, that would stay there, glowing, while they chanted.
Ichigo glanced around, swallowing…and ground his teeth. 'Here it goes.' He thought. He nodded confidently at Renji, sent a reassuring glance to Hanataro, and smirked at Yoruichi. Suddenly, golden symbols appeared in front of each masked man, and a line of letters scrawled towards Ichigo. They stopped before reaching him, and then spiraled into a circle so he was in the middle of it. The circle glowed bright yellow, and Ichigo had to squint his eyes.
Then, blinding pain ripped through his body, pain that was only second to the pain Hichigo had inflicted on his body while he had been having a breakdown. Ichigo couldn't help but scream, and the force of the scream ripped his throat raw immediately. With a flash of golden light…he was blinded, and his voice was silenced.
------------------------------
Shinji's phone chirped, and Shinji answered it immediately. He listened for a moment, and then replied, "Okay. Thanks."
Shinji snapped the phone shut, and glanced around. Rukia stood there, clean and pristine, next to him. All of the Vaizard had their swords unsheathed, but didn't have their masks on. They wouldn't don their masks unless they engaged in a fight.
"That was Urahara. Yoruichi called him, and said they just transported him." Shinji said.
"Okay. Let's go get Berry!" Mashiro trilled. Shinji nodded.
"Rukia…we'll be back soon. Don't worry." He said, grinning. He raised his free left hand from the grip on his sheath that was tucked into his belt, and pointed at the air. Immediately, the air seemed to pull back in a move that Rukia recognized.
"That's the move Ulquiorra used to flee." She whispered. Shinji grinned. "See? No worries, if a Vasto Lorde uses it." He teased. She couldn't help but smile.
"Okay, let's go!" Shinji said, and turned to the gap that opened. All of the Vaizard stepped into it, and Shinji was the last. As the gap closed, he said, "Just be patient. We'll bring him back in no time!" Then, he was gone.
Rukia took a few calming breaths, and went to sit on a couch that the Vaizard had placed in the room. This was a large, abandoned business building with fifteen floors. They were on the top floor at the moment, and they had knocked down all the walls so there was nothing but a wide-open space. The white fluorescent lights illuminated the area perfectly, but they didn't have to worry about someone seeing them. All the windows were either completely boarded up or painted black so no one could see in. This top floor was filled with couches, chairs, and recreational things. She sat on the closest couch, which was white leather, and put her hands on her lap. All she had to do…was wait.
--------------------------
Ichigo hit the ground hard. He was face-first, so sand immediately got into his mouth. He spat it out, and rolled onto his feet. He was alert, ready for any Hollows…and he listened. There was nothing but silence, as he stood on one of the innumerable white sand dunes. He wiped the sand off his tongue onto the bandage on his right bicep. He spat once. "Yuck." He muttered.
Not in danger yet, he allowed himself to actually examine the area around him. He looked around, surprised. He couldn't see anything but white sand, and large black rocky things that resembled pillars. They were far out, however, and Ichigo bet they were perfect for Hollows to nest on. He shivered. The sky above was cloudy, grey, and foreboding. The clouds rolled across the sky like a living being, and he pursed his lips. He'd have to be careful here. His imagination could help kill him just as much as his lack of a weapon could.
He took a step, listening to the sound of the shifting sand underneath his feet, and glanced around. Yup. He was alone, for now. It was just him, and the white, limitless dunes of Hueco Mundo.
"Okay. First thing's first…figure a way to get these things off." Ichigo muttered, and plopped down onto his behind. He hadn't tried to take the cuffs off yet, because he had been under constant watch from guards. These thick manacles would be fairly easy to slip out of…assuming he could find a way to grease them off his wrists. He knew how to form his hand in a way that would make it just as thin as his wrist…but he would have to somehow lubricate the manacles so he could slide them off.
He thought for a moment, glaring at the handcuffs, and decided on using saliva. He had nothing else. He frowned, and let saliva fill his mouth. He worked on his spit, gathering a large amount, and then held his hands in front of him. He let his saliva leak down onto his wrist right before the manacle started, and then he tilted his wrist so the saliva leaked down into the manacle. He started to twist his wrist, coating the insides of the black manacles with his spit, and spit some more. He made his hand slim, and grunted as he placed his right foot on the chain between the cuffs. He braced himself, and pushed at the chain with his foot. He pulled his right hand, and grunted. Almost immediately, his hand started to slide very slowly out of the cuff. Ichigo grunted as he pulled and pulled…and after a few solid minutes…his hand came out with a wet 'pop'!
He grinned, ecstatic. He hadn't thought it would be that easy. "Haha! Bite it, Yamamoto!" Ichigo crowed. He wiggling his right hand's fingers, grinning even wider. Then, he wiped his hand off on his Shihakusho pants. Ichigo raised his right hand, and tried to form a Cero. He grunted, strained…but still couldn't feel his spirit energy. He frowned.
"Damn! Looks like I have to take both of them off…" Ichigo muttered, and quickly worked up some spit in his mouth. He quickly, and rather efficiently, did the same thing to his left wrist that he had done to his right wrist. He gingerly started to pull his hand out, and was surprised when his hand slid out even easier. His hand was halfway out…when he heard something behind him. It sounded a lot like something flying through the air at him…like he had heard countless times over the years when giant claws or such tried to kill him. 'Hollow!' He thought instantly, and rolled to the side. Almost instantly, the place where he had been sitting…exploded. Ichigo rolled to his feet, pleased at his reaction time, and faced the spot.
"Oh shit." Ichigo whispered. Standing with its massive claw buried in the ground…was a Huge Hollow. Rukia had briefed him on different kinds of Hollows. There were the standard Hollows, then Strong Hollows who were a bit larger than the average Hollow, then the Huge Hollows who were twice as big…and then came the Menos Classes. This…was a Huge Hollow.
It's large, white skull mask regarded Ichigo with curiosity, clearly wondering how Ichigo had managed to evade him. It pulled its claw, which looked more like a crab's pincer, from the sand, and growled, "Must…devour…"
Ichigo glared, and grabbed the chain of his handcuffs in his right hand. He pulled hard on the chain, and pulled his left hand to try to get it free. It gave a little, slowly, as the Hollow regarded him. "Hey, listen…I…uh…I'm part Hollow!" Ichigo said, trying to stall. Just a little more.
"I don't sense your reiatsu…and you have no mask or hole." The Hollow replied, sounding as if it were annoyed.
"That's because I have these cuffs on! I was caught by Soul Society, but I managed to escape…just barely!" Ichigo said, and yanked harder on the cuff. His hand was almost free. It was just his large knuckles keeping his hands in the cuffs now.
"Hah…as if. You're wearing a Shihakusho. You're a Shinigami, banished here." The Hollow laughed. Ichigo gritted his teeth as he pulled harder on the chain and cuff…desperate to get it off. Just a tiny bit more!
"So, I'll be doing all of us a favor, by killing a Soul Reaper!" The Hollow cackled. Ichigo yanked on his chain, right when the Hollow raised its clawed hands into the air. Ichigo almost laughed, now that he could see its body. It was a crab, with a skull head. Strange. The claws flew at him, and he turned and ran. He pulled hard on his cuff, and the ground behind him exploded.
"GAAH!" he cried, as he flew forward and tumbled through the sand. He rolled onto his knees and gave the cuffs one last good wrench. Ichigo pulled his wrist free. Ichigo sprang to his feet, and grinned. "Oh yeah!" He roared, and the Hollow glanced at him. He tossed the manacles aside. Once his flesh stopped touching the manacles…his Spirit Energy exploded into existence.
Sand and dust billowed out from him as his Spirit Energy, in its full potential, was unleashed from its bondage. Ichigo brought it under control, as the Hollow in front of him backed away. Ichigo heard screeches from all around, no doubt Hollows who had already been coming here were running here. But, this Hollow was a coward. Ichigo gingerly put his arms through the sleeves of his Shihakusho as the Huge Hollow backed away. He closed his shirt, so only half of his chest was revealed, and cracked his neck.
"Now…where were we?" Ichigo asked the Huge Hollow.
"Uh…" The Hollow said, and Ichigo smirked. "Oh yes…I remember."
He planted his legs apart, and tucked his right hand near his left hip…and clenched his hand around an invisible sword hilt. He grinned as the Hollow turned and fled, not bothering to protect itself. "ZANGESTU!" Ichigo roared, and pulled his sword into existence with a blaze of Spiritual Power.
Zangetsu's gleaming white edge shone, and his blade flashed. 'Ichigo…' Zangetsu's voice echoed in his head. Ichigo grinned even wider, pleased to hear his Zanpakuto's voice. 'Hey there. That whole spirit energy restriction cuffs thing really sucked.' He replied.
'I agree. I suggest next time, you don't get captured.' Zangetsu said sarcastically. Ichigo laughed aloud, and holstered Zangetsu on his back. The familiar weight was comforting.
Ichigo suddenly felt a familiar reiatsu approaching, and unslung Zangetsu. He narrowed his eyes, as he faced the direction of the approaching power. The fact that it was familiar, was what put him on guard. He ripped his mask into existence, though he was growing tired of wearing his mask, and prepared himself.
With the faint, high-pitched phasing sound of Shunpo…someone appeared at the top of the dune in front of him. Ichigo grinned behind his mask, and ripped it off and cast it aside. It dissolved instantly. "Love!" Ichigo yelled, greeting the jumpsuit-wearing Vaizard.
The Vaizard, holding his sheath in his left hand and sword in his right, grinned. "Hey, Ichigo. Let's get you out of this place, huh?" He asked. Ichigo sheathed Zangetsu and nodded.
"Absolutely." He laughed, and jogged up the dune to Love's side. Love sheathed his blade and held the sheath and sword in his left hand. He raised his right hand to the sky, and said, "Path of Destruction 31, Shakkaho (Red Flame Cannon)!"
A red ball of fire erupted from Love's palm, and shot into the sky. Love re-drew his sword, casting a cautious look around. "The others will be here any moment. Keep on your guard. There are tons of Hollows crawling around." Love cautioned.
Ichigo nodded, and unslung Zangetsu. He couldn't help but grin, though. "Man, I'm glad to see you. I was afraid I'd be stuck here for a long time, until I could figure out how to get back to the World of the Living."
Love grinned back, looking over the rim of his sunglasses. "Well, thanks to Urahara and Yoruichi, we knew where you'd be." He said, and Ichigo laughed. "I'll have to thank them."
With seven high-pitched bursts of sound, Ichigo found himself suddenly surrounded by his Vaizard Family. Ichigo felt a sense of belonging…of a homecoming, and he sighed. Everyone greeted him with grins. "Ichigo." Shinji said, smirking.
"Hey guys. You missed a Huge Hollow." He laughed. "He wanted to eat me for dinner. It's a good thing I got my restriction cuffs off before he did, though."
"They left the restriction cuffs on you?" Shinji cried, his face changing to an enraged look. Ichigo nodded. "They said they couldn't risk letting me have them off, because I'd try to escape."
All of the Vaizard exchanged looks. "Back when we were around, you were banished after being placed in a restraining Kido. It was a ten minute restraining Kido, which kept you immobilized while they transported you. That way, you could at least defend yourself before you succumbed to hordes of Hollows…it was an honorable way to go, even if you were banished." Shinji said, his voice becoming grave.
"I have a feeling that they made an exception for you." Lisa said, and Ichigo frowned. "Probably." He admitted.
"Well, enough with that. We need to get you back to Rukia." Shinji said, and Ichigo immediately felt his heart miss a beat at the sound of her name. Everyone sheathed their swords, and gathered around Shinji.
Ichigo holstered Zangetsu, and stepped up to the Vaizard Leader. "Okay, now…I'm going to open a dimensional rift. You step into it, and relax, okay?" Shinji instructed.
"Okay." Ichigo said, and nodded. Shinji raised his right hand, pointing at the air. At the tip of his finger, the air opened, and Ichigo blinked. The grey void in the background seemed foreboding, but all of the Vaizard stepped into the opening maw. Ichigo stepped in, as did Shinji, and then it closed behind him. For an instant, he felt like he was on a rollercoaster, and his stomach lurched to his throat. Then, the air in front of him opened, revealing a wide-open space filled with chairs and a ping pong table, air hockey table…all sorts of recreational things. But…the one thing Ichigo noticed more than anything, was the petite Shinigami sitting on a white leather couch in front of him.
Her eyes widened in surprise, and she bolted to her feet. She stood no more than five feet away from Ichigo, her eyes shining with joy as she stared at him. Ichigo looked down into her violet eyes, and whispered, "Hey."
"Hey, yourself." She whispered back, and smiled.
Someone patted him on the back, he couldn't tell who. "Welcome home, Ichigo." They said. Ichigo thought it might have been Rose. He didn't care at the moment. He was too busy staring at the most beautiful Shinigami in existence, her pale skin glowing in the lights…and her violet orbs shining with tears of happiness.
Someone pushed him forward, so he stumbled a step forward. "Go on. Kiss her." A voice grunted, and Ichigo dimly recognized it as Hiyori's voice. Ichigo did as she bid, and crossed the remaining few feet between him and Rukia. However, before he could kiss her, the face of a pale, broken Kuchiki flashed into his mind. He froze, and cautiously reached his hands out to Rukia. He had to remember to give her time and space to recover. It wasn't like she could get over what Yurimoto did to her in the blink of an eye. She took his hands, cocking her head in confusion, and he murmured, "Can I hug you?"
Her eyebrows shot up in surprise. Then, she laughed softly. "I think I can manage that." She murmured, and did something surprising to him. She leapt into his arms, wrapping her legs around his waist to anchor herself, as she wrapped her arms around his neck and shoulders, and kissed him…just as she had the first time they had admitted they had feelings for each other. He instinctively cupped her bottom in his right hand to support her, and reached his left arm up to her back and neck to support her and press her tight to him as they kissed open-mouthed. She kissed him hard, passionately, and he responded just as vigorously. He hadn't kissed her in so long, and it felt just like the first time all over again. His blood burned in his veins as he suckled on her lower lip slightly, and she responded by crushing her mouth to his in a ferocious kiss. He wasn't sure how long they kissed, but he was sure it was a while.
When they were done, at least momentarily, they broke apart…panting for breath. "What…brought that on?" Ichigo gasped, and she seemed to realize what he meant.
"He doesn't…have any hold on me." She breathed, and leaned down and kissed him chastely on the lips. "When I thought you died…I realized that I had wanted to hug you, hold you, kiss you…" She blushed. "Love you, and I'd never get that chance again. That experience helped me. I'm not over it…but I've dealt with it. He can't hurt me again, and I'll always be with you. I love you, and he can't stop that…even with what he did. I'm comfortable, doing anything and everything I can with you." She murmured, and kissed him again on the lips. Not with a roaring passion, or as a chaste kiss…but gently, and with a slow passion that emphasized the truth of her words. They kissed gently, their lips moving in a soft synchrony, and he enjoyed the soft caresses as she stroked his head.
Even though Ichigo had one of the worst few weeks in his life…he didn't care about it. Soul Society had turned its back on him, tried to condemn him and send him to his death, his girlfriend and lover had been raped and hurt, he had lost control to his Hollow, fought his Hollow almost non-stop, and faked his death and hurt his friends. It was one of the most stressful weeks in his existence. But, none of that mattered as he kissed her.
She pulled away, smiling. "Welcome back…Ichigo." She murmured.
Ichigo glanced around at his friends…no, his family, and smiled. Yes. He was home. He was back, healthy, strong…and among those who cared for and loved him. Here was where he belonged. Maybe, someday, his friends from Soul Society would contact him. Maybe someday he could allow them to join him here, with his new family, and they could all live together as a giant family. He could picture Hanataro, the Urahara Shoten gang, his family, Renji and Byakuya, Ganju and his family, Ikkaku and Yumichika, Kenpachi and Yachiru…all of his friends living with him and enjoying life with him. He smirked at Rukia. "Yeah. It's good to be back."
He kissed her again, and believed for the first time in a long time…that there was hope. On the horizon, loomed the threat of Aizen, Soul Society, and various other unknowns. He didn't care. He had his family, friends, Rukia…and hope. Hope and faith. Those were the most powerful weapons he knew of. With those, he could gain the strength to face a new day, face a new threat…and defeat it. He broke from the kiss slowly, enjoying the lingering taste of her on his lips. "I'm home…and I'm here to stay." He murmured.
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And that's the end of the story. :)
That's the end of BLEACH: Listen to Your Heart. There will be a sequel to this, depending on if you guys review and let me know you want there to be one. The sequel will encompass everything that happens with Soul Society and Aizen and the Arrancar…and how Ichigo, Rukia, his new family, and his friends deal with them. Let me know if you want more! I realize I sprang this on you without warning, but I felt that was a good way to end this segment of the story. Depending on reviews…I will make the sequel. And, I expect more than just 'great story, make the sequel' in a review. Lol. Tell me what you thought! I enjoy hearing from my readers!
Your Eager Author,
FlexRhysode1