A/N:

Hey, guys. I MADE IT! The last chapter for Ichirin no Hana is finally up.

I wanted to thank all of you who reviewed my story & told me you wonderful thoughts. I absolutely loved 'em XD

I am thinking of doing a sequel sometime soon, so those of you who want to read more, do not fear.

Chapter 26

Under the Apple Tree: Fulfilled Desire

(Tōshirō's POV)

I opened my eyes, slowly but surely. My body ached all over, causing my breath to hitch. I moved my head and looked around. I instantly recognized the place as the Fourth Division Infirmary. Sitting up, I saw my Captain's haori folded nicely on a nearby chair. I got up and reached for it. There was a note on top.

"What's this?"

I opened the letter and read it.

Dear Captain Hitsugaya,

I am to inform you that the situation within the Seireitei has been brought to a conclusion. Aizen Sosuke, as you may already know, has betrayed the Soul Society, alongside Captains Gin Ichimaru and Tousen. I am also to inform you that the Ryoka are now allying with us, as their intentions have been brought to justice. They have been deemed innocent for their disturbance. Also, I would like to let you know that a friend of yours has been by your bedside for the past three nights. Do not fret over her condition, as she is healthy and walking without difficulties. When you are intent on seeing her yourself, come to meet us in the Eleventh Division training grounds.

Captain Unohana

I raised an eyebrow. Why the Eleventh Division? I shrugged off the thought and got dressed. I had a strong feeling that it was Jennifer who sat by my bedside those nights. I shook my head in shock, Three night? I can't believe that I've been out that long. I found Hyōrinmaru laying in the corner and strapped him to my sash. The images of what happened with Aizen flashed through my head as I walked out of the Infirmary. The blood. Momo's body laying, bleeding profusely. Then, that voice and familiar flash of red and purple. Jennifer. I hope she's alright. 'She is a strong Soul Reaper, Master. Do not fret too much or you might give yourself a heart attack.' I mentally nodded.

Things were rather hectic when I got to the Eleventh Division. There were numerous Soul Reapers standing around, some of which had to sit on the rooftops and walls to see what was happening. All I could hear were the screams and yelling from the courtyard.

"GOD DAMMIT! I DON'T WANT TO FIGHT YOU," one person sounded rather frantic. "ARE YOU FRICKEN CRAZY?"

A tall man ran by. He was wearing the standard shihakusho of a Soul Reaper, yet there was no Squad badge on him. A Ryoka. The one thing that did strike my attention was the massive Zanpakutō he was carrying.

"ICHIGO, YOU COWARD! GET YOUR STUBBORN ASS BACK HERE," there was that familiar voice. "Must I do everything on my own? God. I hate you."

There was a yell and the clashing of several swords. My curiosity got the better of me and I went to investigate. After being unsuccessful in getting through the crowd, I Shunpoed onto the barracks. My mouth dropped as I stared in bewilderment. There was a blurred figure that ran straight at Ikkaku and Kenpachi. A long Zanpakutō met their blades. The person I was staring at had her usual smirk and cocky aura surrounding her.

"JENNIFER! WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING?"

The said person looked around, having heard my voice. The moment she looked in my direction, she grinned. Unfortunately, that made her drop her guard as Kenpachi took the move to push her back. Right into the wall of the barracks that I was standing on. I panicked and Shunpoed down to her.

"JENNIFER!"

"Hey, Tōshirō," her voice being right behind me. "What's up?"

I jumped and turned around, glaring at her. All she did was grin and Shunpo away. Right in Kenpachi's direction. I went to grab her, but she was too fast for me.

"Sorry, buddy," she called out over her shoulder. "But I've got to finish up this fight. Talk to ya when I'm done."

The grin on Zaraki's face made me panic even more. I Shunpoed right between them, preventing them from trying to kill each other. The crowd gasped in shock.

"Jennifer," I growled, without looking at her. "What did I say about-"

"Like I said, let me just wrap this up."

I spun around and found Jennifer's body missing. Dammit. How did she? I heard a crash and looked at the barracks. The debris flew everywhere. All I could see were three Zanpakutōs flashing in the dust. I let out another growl.

"JENNIFER!"

There was another crash. Someone landed on my left. I could just feel her taunting spirit energy floating in the air.

"Yes, Snowball," she smirked at me, glancing form the corner of her eye.

"Stop...HEY! WHAT DID I SAY ABOUT CALLING ME THAT?"

There was laughter everywhere. It only fueled my rage and embarrassment. Jennifer Shunpoed away before I could make another grab. I glared at her back, then up at the sky. I hate you. Curse the Fates. 'Now, now. That's not exactly a good thing to say,' Hyōrinmaru teased me. I pushed his presence away and Shunpoed away from the large building debris came at me. I glared down from the rooftop at the three Soul Reapers. The fellow Soul Reapers who were watching hollered out and routed for whomever them wanted to win. I was surprised to hear Jennifer's name being called out a few times. I saw Captains Unohana, Ukitake, and Shunsui standing watch at the scene. I Shunpoed over to them.

"Care to explain to me what the hell is going on here?"

"Oh, Captain Hitsugaya," Ukitake patted my head, earning a growl. "I thought I saw you out there."

"You didn't answer my question," I had to refrain from snapping at him and the others. "And why is Jennifer fighting Kenpachi? Doesn't she realize that she could kill herself. It two against one."

"Correction," Shunsui tilted his hat to get a better look. "Ichigo was supposed to fight alongside Jennifer, but he backed out and made a break-away. If you are to blame anyone, let it be him. Jennifer volunteered to fight the two of them."

"But..."

"Hitsugaya. I know you care for Jennifer, but you need to let her fight this one," Unohana put her hand on my shoulder. "It was the Captain-Commander's choice to have her fight."

I stared at her, mouth agape. What. How. Why? I glanced at the other Captains. They grinned at me and looked away. I felt a headache coming up, along with a soon-to-pop blood vein. I rubbed my forehead.

"The Captain-Commander?"

"Yes. It would seem that he has taken an interest in our young Jennifer Starr," the way Shunsui said nearly drove me insane.

"What is that supposed to mean?"

"Why don't you ask Jennifer after the battle. Til then, just sit back and wish your friend luck."

I groaned and leaned against the wall. It was definitely a heart-ache to have to watch Jennifer fight the two crazed Soul Reapers, especially those of the Eleventh Division.

(Jennifer's POV)

I glanced at the two men from the corner of my eyes. Zaraki came at me from my right while Ikkaku came at my left. I smirked and raised Kurakeshinmaru across my shoulder, blocking both attacks at the same time. The fight was leaving me revitalized, even though 'Strawberry' chickened out at the last second.

"Ha, you're not bad for a woman," Zaraki laughed.

"I'll take that as a compliment," I smirked and Shunpoed behind Ikkaku.

Ikkaku yelped as my foot made contact with his ass and was sent flying at Zaraki, who merely stepped aside. He then came at me, grinning like the mad-man he was. I grinned back and lunged at him. Sparks flew everywhere as our blades met. Still, the strength this Captain had was unbelievable and I was glad that I was just as acceptable. Narrowing my golden eyes, I channeled my spirit energy into Kurakeshinmaru and pushed back. Zaraki, of course, Shunpoed away from the blast and grinned. I chuckled and Shunpoed away from Zaraki's attack, using Kura to deflect most of the blow.

"That is enough for today," the Captain-Commander's voice boomed over the crowd.

I lowered my Zanpakutō and glanced at Zaraki. I smirked when I saw the pissed off look on his face. He was so itching for a fight. Too bad Ichigo couldn't stay to enjoy the fun. I placed Kurakeshinmaru's blade on its holster and turned to Zaraki, bowing.

"I would have to say that this was rather fun, Zaraki," I stood back up and turned to walk away. "Maybe next time our fight won't go interrupted."

"Ha, then so it be, kid."

I walked up to Yammamoto and bowed. I thanked him for allowing me to test my skills. He nodded his head.

"I expect great things from you, Jennifer Starr," his low, raspy voice filled with admiration. "Will you still consider joining the Gotei 13?"

"Sadly, I'll have to pass for the time being" I grinned. "The offer is nice and all, but the Soul Society is not the only place being targeted by Aizen. Karakura still needs an extra hand, and I have yet to complete my training. If, for any reason, should a situation arise, I will be sure to alert you of any problems."

I waited the Head-Captain's reaction. He was disappointed for sure, but he knew I was right.

"Very well. Take care of yourself, Miss Starr."

With that, we bowed and departed. Why can't people just call me by my first name? It makes me feel old, I shook my head. As I walked to the Squad 11 barracks, my memories of the fight with Gin Ichimaru came back. I just can't believe that I'm Aizen's daughter, I glared at the sky. No. He's no father of mine. The only real family that I have are Nathan and Dad, I whimpered silently. The thought of them made my stomach churn. It had been so long since I last saw them. I pushed aside all thoughts as I walked passed Ikkaku and Yumichika, getting a pat on the shoulder and a "Job well-done, beautiful" from the former. Yumichika would be if Snowball wasn't in the vicinity to hear his comment.

"Hey, Kiddo," Yoruichi came up to me, with Soi Fon in tow. "How are things coming along?"

"Fine, I guess," I shrugged. "Nothing new except Soul Society and the fact that I'm gonna kill Aizen for what he has done."

Should I tell her? I saw the look Yoruichi gave me. I shook my head and gave her a weak smile.

"Just don't take it too personally," Yoruichi gaze softened. "Whatever happens in the future, do not let your anger overcome you. It'll bring nothing good. Okay?"

I nodded my head and noticed something in Soi Fon's hands. I asked her what it was that she had. She brought out her hands and presented me with my long-awaited, new 'shihakusho'. My face immediately lit up.

"Seriously? Oh, Goddess," I tried not to burst out. "Thanks, Captain Soi Fon."

"No problem, kid," she gave me the clothes and smirked, having seen my fallen expression at the nickname.

I growled and glared at Yoruichi. All she did was chuckle and walk away. Dammit, Yoruichi. Why did you have to tell her that cursed nickname? I heard Kura laugh and fade away, having heard the entire thing. I sighed and gave Soi Fon a lop-sided grin. She nodded her head and walked away. I Shunpoed in the other direction, towards my temporary 'dorm' as I liked to call it. Once there, I immediately got dressed and looked in the mirror. I absolutely loved the new uniform. It was a sleeveless, backless shirt with a high collar. A zipper ran down the front and stopped just above my bust line. Covering the bare skin on my stomach, chest area, and upper arms was a see-through, laced that was actually sewn to the vest.

The hakusho pants were all-black and two, large slits opened the sides for easy movement. They were tied together loosely with string. The bottoms were untied and flared out at my ankles. The pants weren't too tight, but tight enough to 'hug' my legs and thighs.

'Not bad. The size fits and it's much more comfortable than that ridiculous outfit the perverted, old man gave you,' Kura mocked at the thought of when I got my first shihakusho. Yeah. I'm just as thankful. I heard a knock on my door, drawing my attention to the door. I felt a chill go down my back, instantly recognizing the Reiatsu.

"JUST A SECOND!"

I grabbed my white sash and tied it around my waist, leaving a good amount of the cloth to flow down to my knees. Walking over to the door, I waited a moment and opened it. I was instantly met with a pair of teal eyes staring at me in shock.

"J-Jen," the white-haired Captain stuttered.

"Hey, Snowball," I almost immediately turned serious. "How are you feeling?"

Tōshirō stared at me for a moment before turning away, blushing. He mumbled something, so I had to lean in to hear.

"I'm...fine."

"That's good to hear. How's Momo?"

"She's," he glanced at me, worry and guilt filled his eyes. "She's fine as well. She currently sleeping at the Infirmary."

I nodded and let him in. He walked over to the nearby window, not casting a second glance at me. I saw his shoulders begin shaking, evident that he was on the verge of crying. I came up behind him and gently wrapped my arms around his shoulders.

"I'm...s-so...sorry, Jen," he was trying not to cry. "All the things that are going on...I-I just can't...b-believe...any of it."

"Everything'll be alright. You don't have to hold back," I whispered so only he could hear me.

With that, he turned around and embraced me. I could feel my shoulder getting wet from his tears. I knew that it took a lot to make him cry. And in him not seeing me for ten years, then having me miraculously appear on his doorstep during Rukia's rescue, and now with Aizen's deceit and Momo's injuries, I knew he needed someone there for him. We stood there, in each other's embrace for several minutes before Tōshirō finally calmed down, rubbing his eyes. He looked like a child that lost everything he had. Tōshirō looked at me and wiped a tear from my face. Had I been crying as well? I smiled weakly. It was strange. I hoped that no one was nearby to witness the situation. I motioned for him to follow me outside. We climbed onto the rooftop of the barracks and watched the sun begin to set. It had been a long day, and an even longer week. I sighed and looked at Tōshirō.

"Are you leaving with the other Ryoka tomorrow," Tōshirō glanced at me.

"Sadly yes," I sighed, knowing very well how he'd react. "I have some special training that I have taken cared of."

I saw the look in his eyes. It hurt me to even say the words. I cared for my white-haired friend a lot, but some things had to get finished.

"Why can't you stay here," his voice was nearly a whisper. "I could help you with whatever training you need."

"It is not something that you can help me with, Tōshirō," I touched my right arm unknowingly. "But don't you worry. I'll visit you whenever I can, even if I have to sneak passed the old cat and Mr. Hat-and-Clogs."

"Who?"

"Yoruichi and Urahara," I shrugged and smirked. "They piss me off with the nicknames that they give me, so I give them a taste of their own medicine. Hmph, but I promise I'll visit. I cross my heart."

He chuckled and smiled. It was faint but it was still a smile. I felt him touch my hand, immediately allowing him to wrap his fingers around my own. We stared at each other for a few minutes before returning our gaze to the sunset, well I did at least. I sensed Tōshirō's gaze on me for a little while longer before turning away as well.

"I hope Momo won't panic when she realizes Aizen is no longer her Captain," I saw Tōshirō cringe at the name.

"I'm sure she'll get over it," he let go of my hand and wrapped his arm around my shoulder. "She might be a bit emotional over the issue, but she'll find the strength to move on."

"Yeah. That's for certain." I then chuckled, "Do you remember when we first met?"

Tōshirō glared at me, suddenly having a scowl in his face. It made me grin all the more. It was great times like those that I cherished the most.

"How can I not? That mouth of yours has never made me forget anything, no matter how long ago it was."

"Oh, yeah," I mock-saluted him. "Hey, you've gotta love the American freedom of speech."

Tōshirō rolled his eyes, earning a playful punch from yours truly. We sat on the roof and talked and laughed even after the sun was gone. We had caught up on a lot of things. I found out that he had managed to achieve Bankai after my abrupt 'death' so that he can be better able to protect those close to him. I told him of my own experiences and how I had met his Grandmother in the First Rukon District. His eyes lit up and mumbled to himself, saying something about visiting her soon. I saw Tōshirō's gaze shift to my Zanpakutō.

"I sensed your Reiatsu back underground," he spoke calmly. "It was...different from before."

"Huh? Oh, you sensed that," I shrugged. "Believe it or not, I had managed to achieve Bankai, even with Kura being the bitch that she is. Unfortunately, the change did more to me than what was expected from a normal Zanpakutō."

"What do you mean by that?"

I glanced at Tōshirō. We're friends and friends can't keep secrets from each other. I breathed in and turned to face him. Hesitantly, I lifted the removable sleeve. The darkened flesh underneath glowed faintly under the moonlight. It looked almost like cracked magma with the smooth scales. I heard Tōshirō's breath hitch.

"What," he touched my arm, causing it to brighten for a second. "...happened?"

"It is a part of the change when I got Akairo Zankō Kurakeshinmaru," I lowered my gaze from Tōshirō's turquoise eyes. "It is the reason why I have to stay in the World of the Living. Kisuke and Yoruichi, especially Yoruichi, know of what to make of it."

"...I see."

I felt Tōshirō wrap his arm around my shoulder again and pulled me against him. I leaned my head on his shoulder, closing my glowing, yellow eyes. I was sure that Tōshirō was going to have to get used to them, but I knew he didn't care. I was content with just that alone, especially with my friend by my side. My right arm pulsed slightly, indicating my feeling over the matter. Do I love him? I don't know. I'd rather keep our friendship than accidentally screw it up. I felt something brush against my cheek, causing my skin to flush. How can I not remember that feeling? It was the same as back at home. I tilted my head up and gave Tōshirō a kiss on his own cheek. I felt him blush and smiled.

"At least Rangiku or anyone else isn't here to..."

There was a failed attempt to hide a certain flash and snapping noise. There was also some slight cursing over to our right. Obviously, someone was spying on us and failed to remove the flash on a camera. Tōshirō and I stared at each other. We've been jinxed. I knew we were thinking the same thing. We both shared a growl and got up, glaring at the direction that the flash originated from. I was able to make out the busty woman's hair and two other Soul Reapers next to her: a certain red-headed Pineapple and Carrot-Top.

"MATSUMOTO/ICHIGO, RENJI," we both screamed out at them.

Tōshirō and I shared another glance. I smirked evilly, while Tōshirō sighed/growled. We walked towards our intended targets, smiling evilly. Might as well have fun with the dumb ass before our departure tomorrow, I smirked even more.

"Oh, Ichigo," I tauntingly drew Kura, her blade vibrating for wanted pain and torture.

"D-DAMMIT! RUN!"

Ending Theme "Anthem of the Angels" by Breaking Benjamin

The End.