Chapter 56
Rukia's feet became lead so Yuzu had to convince her they were not going to see Ichigo instead they are sitting in a park bench sipping on apple juice boxes. It is in the evening time since they sat in silence a while so Rukia could calm down.
"I am sorry Onee-San. If I had known you were going to get upset I wouldn't have suggested it".
"Its okay Yuzu-Chan, you are only trying to help".
"Do you feel better"? Rukia nods for an answer. "Onee-San do you trust me"? Rukia nods at her again. "Then listen to me for a bit. I know I have yet to turn fifteen and I don't really have the right to tell you what to do. I have not experienced life enough to do so".
Rukia tries to talk but Yuzu places an imaginary zipper over her mouth. Yuzu has been spending way too much time with Byakuya.
"But I love Nii-Chan and you both so much that I cannot keep quiet. When I finally met the person responsible for my Nii-Chan's change I wanted to shower you with so much love and appreciation but I held back because sometimes I come off as pushy". Rukia's eyes soften but she doesn't interrupt.
"I have seen the change in Nii-Chan since he met you and there are no words to describe it so it gives me the right to say Nii-Chan would never abandon you for anything in this world or the next".
"Nii-Chan must be feeling awful and the truth is he has never grieved for Okasan in front of us or anyone instead he gave us his shoulder to cry on and swallowed his right up so this must be no different not to mention being too difficult".
Rukia takes her hand and squeezes it knowing this must be hard for her. "Deep down inside we know he feels guilty for taking her from us and blames himself for her death but he will not allow us to tell him those words saying he is not".
"Onee-San If something awful like this was to happen to me I would want to be close to my loved ones but Nii-Chan has yet to learn that lesson. You are going to have to be the strong one and find him first help him learn that lesson…sorry for asking since you are in pain too but I honestly believe you two need each other".
Rukia hugs Yuzu so hard she feels like she'll pop like a balloon but does not pull away instead she returns her hug with vigor.
"How did I end up with such a great family such smart and wonderful sisters"? Rukia is smiling as she wipes her eyes.
"Great minds think alike". They both laugh as they wipe their tears. "Are you ready to go home"?
Rukia shakes her head. "I am ready to find your Nii-Chan".
Yuzu has a bright smile on her face as Rukia pulls her out of the park.
Byakuya walks away from a heavily guarded room. He is trying to digest everything he just learned. He has to be very careful over how he is going to handle this. The situation is rather complicated. Byakuya finds himself relying less and less in Soul Society and that it is disconcerting at best. Adding to his troubles is the fact he is confiding more and more with Captain Hitsugaya a kid compared to him yet here he is standing in front of his office after using shunpo. The truth is they have been facing this together since this whole mess with Rukia started.
Toshiro opens his door. "You have been standing in the doorway for about five minutes thought I'd help you make up your mind".
Byakuya walks inside and takes off his sandals then sits on a comfy chair. Toshiro closes the door and goes to pour him some tea Byakuya is looking rather pale and worried.
"Indeed I have". Byakuya answers rather late and it unsettles Toshiro.
Ulquiorra is in his apartment with Orihime, Nel and Jaeger. They are watching TV and drinking lemonade.
"Ulqui-Kun, you seem troubled what's wrong"? Orihime rubs his shoulders trying to loosen his tensed muscles.
"Something is troubling me. I originally thought the target was Ichigo but I am not so sure anymore". He gets everybody's undivided attention.
"To defeat a man you attack his pride and you accomplish that by attacking his ability to protect those he cherishes". Nel turns off the TV.
"In Ichigo's case Rukia and his unborn children but why turn around and try to give him a clean slate by using Senna thus erasing the memories of what happened in Hueco Mundo".
"In other words why go through all the trouble of making him forget if you're trying to destroy him in the end"? Jaeger chimes in.
"Well maybe they were counting on him remembering like he did. It worked he remembered and it nearly cost him his sanity so much his Hollow had to take control. Ichigo-kun lost himself". Orihime says it solemnly.
"I have to agree with Cifie I do not think they counted on him doing so. They would have tried to control him as soon as Rukia-Chan was out of the picture. Matter of fact when he turned Hollow they did not try to control him at all". Nel rests her head on Jaegers shoulder.
"Who suffered most of all knowing and remembering everything trying desperately to keep everyone from remembering just to have it all blow up in her face and still had to die? Rukia is the only one from the very beginning who kept getting knocked down hard watching and enduring every painful circumstance occurred alone in silence, starting from Orihime's relationship with Ichigo to Senna taking her place".
"She was given a family and then had it taken from her. So who could it be? Who could be so twisted cruel"? Orihime asks utterly saddened.
"It is definitely female an extremely jaded one at that". Ulquiorra wraps an arm around her.
Yuzu and Rukia come out from a public bus.
"The pharmacy is this way it is quite quaint. Karin-Chan and I would come by and bring Nii-Chan some good treats to eat. Akane-San is really nice and helpful".
"Ichigo worked here"? Rukia asks rather surprised. She always thought he would work with his father or somewhere closer to home.
Yuzu nods. "Nii-Chan didn't say it directly but we knew he wanted to get away from a lot of things including any memories of…" Yuzu cuts herself off.
"It is okay Yuzu-Chan, Ichigo and I worked through that already at least I hope we did". Rukia visibly gets saddened no matter what she hates he felt abandoned by her and Soul Society. Being left behind is not a good feeling.
"It seems we arrived at closing time that's good Nii-Chan will be able to speak to you without interruptions".
As they walk closer they hear voices coming from the alleyway next to the Pharmacy. Rukia recognizes Ichigo's but not the female that's with him. Rukia signals Yuzu to be quiet and so they tip toe closer and hide behind a large recycle bin. Ichigo and some female are sorting through trash separating them for the garbage collectors.
Yuzu whispers to Rukia. "That's Akane-San". Rukia nods as they settle quietly the lighting is rather poor so Rukia cannot see clearly Akane's face or Ichigo's for that matter.
"All I am saying it's a real shame Orihime-Chan and you are not together anymore. I watched you change little by little with her by your side". Rukia flinches upon hearing that. Yuzu squeezes Rukia's hand offering comfort.
"I had all of my friends helping me Akane…not just Orihime". Rukia smiles as Ichigo says so. "Do not get me wrong Orihime did help me through some trying times and I am grateful".
"Aha, so what happened? I remember you being totally love struck". Akane winks and nudges his side with her elbow.
Rukia once again begins to scowl.
"I was not".
"Was too, I remember a certain someone asking, no more like begging for advice". Akane makes her voice deeper to imitate Ichigo. "Oi, Akane don't be like that. Come on help me out. Akane-Chan okay I'll call you Nee-San and throw in weekends taking the medicine to old grumpy Takanaka-San for a month".
Akane starts laughing hysterically while Ichigo is red as a tomato reliving his awkward stage in asking Orihime out on their first date.
Yuzu finds that she is losing blood flow in her right hand though grimacing some she sucks it up for her Onee-San. Rukia is squeezing so tight she can compete for the yearly hand squeeze lemon competition in her school. Don't ask why her school does such a lame contest but they have a reputation of selling the best lemonade in the district all flavors too.
"I'm sorry; it's just that you were adorable asking advice for your first date".
Ichigo crunches a bottle out of embarrassment and frustration on not being able to ring Akane's neck.
"I didn't sound that pathetic besides it's not my fault I am socially inept". Akane is laughing harder if that's even possible. "It was a hell of a month dealing with that old man and his touchy feely hands turns out he's only grumpy with females". Ichigo grumbles and Akane almost falls over form laughing.
"Please stop, my sides hurt from so much laughing". Akane leans on the wall for support and wipes her eyes.
"You knew he was didn't you"? Ichigo looks appalled. "Do you know how sore my behind was after all that pinching"?
Akane nods. Rukia and Yuzu actually chuckles a little picturing Ichigo getting sexually harassed by an old man.
After a few moments Akane has calmed down.
"All jokes aside Ichigo my protector, when you were with Orihime after that first date it was like a weight was lifted. Your permanent scowl kind of went semi permanent. I just want your happiness I'm quite fond of you in case you didn't notice. You are one of the few people who truly deserve to be happy and I honestly thought or rather still think Orihime-Chan is your happiness".
Akane catches Ichigo off guard and hugs him. Ichigo hugs her back.
"Thank you Akane but…" Ichigo doesn't get to say anything else as they hear movement coming from the door leading back into the pharmacy.
Rukia lets go of Yuzu's hand.
"Sorry to interrupt Akane-San, Ichigo-Senpai but the last customer needs advice on the proper cold medicine for her daughter".
"No problem thank you kohaku-Kun I will be right there". Akane elbows Ichigo again. "You're okay"?
Ichigo nods and so she heads inside to help the last customer along with Kohaku.
"Now is your chance Onee-San he is alone". Yuzu looks to see Rukia is not there anymore. Yuzu stands up completely forgetting they were hiding.
"Yuzu…is that you"? Yuzu tries to walk away ignoring her name as if she was someone else. "Kurosaki, Yuzu, stop right there".
'Crap I am a baka'. Yuzu slowly turns around to find herself smack right onto his chest.
"Yuzu what are you doing here so late and alone? Did something bad happen"?
Yuzu jabs her index finger on his chest hard. "What are you doing here is a better question Nii-Chan? As your Imōto (Japanese word for little sister) I am disappointed mister". She jabs her finger repeatedly to get her point across.
"First of all I haven't done anything wrong and second of all were you eavesdropping on my conversation"?
"No we were not…well I mean yes we were but it was unintentional…well sort of. Okay, yes we were". Yuzu is pouting.
"Yuzu, you were raised better than that. And what do you mean by 'we were'"?
Yuzu opens her eyes wide realizing who left. "Nii-Chan I asked Rukia to come with me to get you".
Ichigo gasps out loud. "Rukia heard everything"?
"Well from the part Akane-San said it was a shame you and Orihime-Chan are not together".
"Shit this is so wrong on so many levels. Yuzu go inside and wait till we get back apologize to Akane for me".
Yuzu nods and Ichigo runs off wearing an apron from the pharmacy which reads "Dai 13 no kokoro no hizashi" (Japanese for "sunshine of the Thirteenth Heart" hopefully I got it right).
Yuzu yells to tell him something else. "Nii-Chan, Onee-San is really scared you do not want her anymore and that's why you're avoiding her"! Ichigo almost trips listening to her. Ichigo picks up the pace.
'I am a jack ass for not noticing Rukia or Yuzu's presence. What the hell is wrong with me? Rukia, that is not why damn it'! Ichigo stops for a few catching his breath and trying to feel Rukia. "Damn it Rukia don't hide from me"! Ichigo says this out loud earning him some weird looks from onlookers.
Rukia is running blindly and in an unfamiliar part of town. She suddenly feels guilty over leaving Yuzu but she just couldn't listen anymore it was making her ill literally. Her heart feels heavy and there's a sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach. She wants to wash everything out to stifle the horrible sensations.
"Rukia you're so stupid it's not like you didn't know she is better for him"! Rukia yells at the top of her lungs.
Ichigo wants to pull off his hair in aggravation he clearly knows Rukia cannot be found unless she allows it. Rukia on the other hand can totally feel his all over the place Reiryoku.
"Might as well wear a bulls-eye baka…" Rukia trails off spotting a family coming out of a 2012 Honda CR-V red in color in a driveway.
The man is carrying a baby in a carrier. The woman is pregnant with a belly, a young boy comes out of the car holding his sister's hand they seem close in age range. The man and woman give each other a small kiss on the lips before they head inside with their kids whom are making kissing sounds to make fun of them. The girl runs back outside and throws a teddy bear in a bin before running back inside and closing the door. Rukia walks over from across the street and picks up the teddy bear.
The bear is missing its left ear and eye. It is dark brown with a light green eye. It is big enough to cover both Rukia's hands but small enough to be grabbed by one of her hands. Rukia continues to walk after picking it up.
Rukia sits on a park bench it's kind of chilly tonight. "It must be really lonely being thrown out". Rukia's vision is blurred by the fresh moisture in her big eyes. "To not be wanted or needed anymore…" Rukia sighs heavily and sniffles.
"Rukia…" She instantly looks up upon hearing his voice saying her name. It's the most gentle and gut wrenching way she has ever heard him say her name.
He cups her cheeks using both of his hands as he's crouched down in front of her.
"I will always want and need you with me. You are my oxygen my blood". Rukia cries uncontrollably as she leans into his touch but then she stands up putting some distance between them. Ichigo stands up ready to follow.
"No, don't, please don't come any closer". Ichigo stops mid step. "Is this how you need and want me? You couldn't get away fast enough from me! I was still sleeping yesterday morning"!
"Rukia…" Ichigo flinches as she continues to scream at the top of her lungs.
"Please do apologize to Akane-Chan for me not being Mrs. Sunshine like Orihime-Chan since she's so fucking perfect for you". Rukia is using her high pitch high school voice.
Ichigo runs his hand through his hair. "Oh no don't start that again. I thought we were over that hang up". Ichigo is talking calmly and that seems to make it worse.
"Oh it's a hang up now? Kami help me not kill him"!
"Rukia, when you were eavesdropping did you hear me say I think Orihime is better for me? Did you hear me say I should get back together with her"?
"Your boss seems to think so and you clearly didn't deny her did you"?
"I didn't get a chance to rebuke it". His voice is low but tight.
"You weren't in any hurry to do it besides…" Rukia places a large Cheshire grin on her face… "Akane-Chan only wants your happiness and Orihime-Chan is it or maybe Akane-Chan herself wants a shot at it. Anybody but me she'll probably make a better mother and give you lots of kids…" Rukia blurts it out before thinking and she lowers her face after.
Ichigo is really angry now so much his nails are digging into his palm drawing blood.
"How can you say that to me"? His voice is loud and hardened.
"Ichi-go, I…" Rukia makes a step to get closer but stops.
"You just don't trust me to be the father of your kids anymore". Rukia's eyes are open in horror. "You don't think I could protect our family isn't that it? I do have the horrible track record on letting loved ones die…except now it was by my own hands".
Ichigo looks up with such heartbreak and pain reflecting in his watery eyes. His hands are shaking. Rukia wants to run her Zanpakuto through her own heart right now.
"No Ichigo, Kami no, never…It wasn't your fault. There is no one better I tru…" Ichigo cuts in.
"What you trust me? Is that why you kept every fucking thing from me"? Ichigo is back to being angry.
"Kami, I wanted to protect you from all of this…from your self blame, guilt and anguish"!
"By giving me away to someone else and dying? Rukia, nothing could give me more pain than losing you"!
"You were not supposed to remember me at all"!
"Oh that makes it better! Fuck you don't even know how hypocritical you sound right now! You trust me in good times but not in bad times so you leave me in the dark! You trust me in lies but not in truth Rukia. Don't you see there really isn't any trust"?
Rukia shakes her head. "No, no, no…"
"No to what Rukia? You left the first time around without a word thinking Soul Society was coming to get you and you ended up taken back ready for execution"!
"They almost killed you Ichigo! I was right I would do it again"!
"We will never know the outcome if you would have told me. I could have gone to train with Urahara sooner and gained more power plus my Hollow's power! Way to have faith in me Rukia the one you trust so much! I did go and save you didn't I"?
Rukia's eye is twitching in anger.
"That's the point baka! I was ready to die! I didn't want you to suffer or gain more power or a Hollow! To keep adding to your burdens…" Ichigo glares at her… "And don't fucking glare at me Strawberry I wanted you to live a normal plentiful life"!
"Oh and that's right go off and die almost twice keeping me blind and deciding stuff on your own and I'm the baka! How come I have to find out about your life through fragments that slip from people here and there? I feel like a fucking fool"!
"Yes you are the mother of fucking baka's plus infinity! And I know Baka's try having a best friend for one for hundreds of years. As for 'fragments of my life' they hurt like salt on open wounds but I was going to tell you all of them. I thought we were going to wait together and not trudge through our misery"!
"Rukia you're still missing the damn point! How is any of this a justification"!
"Damn it Ichigo how dense could you be? I LOVE YOU AND I'D RATHER DIE A MILLION SLOW AND TORTUROUS DEATHS THAN TO SEE YOU SUFFER! I have said this to you before, Kami, look what you did I'm crying again. I DON'T WANT TO FUCKING CRY ANYMORE"!...
Ichigo eyes are popping out again..."I wanted to spare you…I feel empty like there's a whole the size of my fists where my heart use to be! I wanted to stop living after losing our miracles! If I had not been jealous, irrational, stubborn and prideful that night Grimmjow never would have captured me! How can you not hate me when I do"?
Rukia drops to her knees and Ichigo is right there on his knees pressing her up against his chest.
"I gave them over to you on a platter instead of running so why don't you hate me"! Rukia starts pounding on his chest repeatedly. "Why, why, why does tragedy follow me? Why do they get to die and I get to live"?
Ichigo lets her hit him as hard as her body allows. He is trying to cradle her body into his. "I'm sorry I'm sorry, please forgive me Rukia…" Ichigo keeps repeating those words and his tears are soaking her shirt. Rukia's sobbing is so full of devestation Ichigo is shaking from the raw emotion behind it his own tears cascading down.
After a few minutes Ichigo is sitting on grass up against a tree with Rukia in between his legs. Her face and body are buried into his chest looking so fragile and defeated. Ichigo's arms and body are securely wrapped around her as if shielding her form the cruel worlds they both know so well.
He has been whispering encouraging words of love and devotion enough to last her lifetimes. His warm Reiatsu is completely enveloping her like a blanket. His shirt is soaked with snot and tears but he doesn't care. His head is covering hers to shield her even more. His face is also obscured from view.
"Ichigo…"
"Hmm…"
Neither move from their position.
"Don't blame yourself for anything anymore. Don't run from me anymore. Share your grief and burdens with me. Stop thinking you are not able to protect those you love and care about. You are the strongest man I have met and will ever meet. Promise me…"
The grip he has on her tightens.
"I promise…but I expect you to not hide anything from me ever again. Never decide to keep me in the dark no matter what. Promise to stop blaming yourself for what I did…" Rukia bites his chest to let him know she doesn't like what he said…
"Okay okay I get it don't blame yourself for things that happened before or after knowing me. Always share your burdens and don't run from me either. You are the best thing that has ever happened to me. No more putting yourself down there is no one who can or could ever replace you. I love you and only you Kurosaki, Rukia so only you can be the mother of my kids and only you can have my heart".
Rukia snuggles into to him and places a lingering kiss over his heart. "I love you so much that only you will ever posses my entire heart and own my soul. Only you will ever be the father to my kids Kurosaki, Ichigo".
Ichigo smirks and kisses the top of her head.
"Curious though how did you remember and over power Zangetsu"?
"A phrase I read on the letter you left for me the night Yuzu was admitted to the Hospital and my Hollow. If it wasn't for him…" Ichigo trembles a little holding her and his voice gets choked up with emotion... "Luv I almost didn't make it to you in time".
"Ichigo…"
"Don't you ever even dare think of doing that to me again! Understand that if you cease to exist I cease to exist you got that? Just imagine if the roles were reversed? I'd probably need new shins".
"Better recognize you would need to surgically attach new ones. I am sorry though Strawberry…so my Shiro broke through and handled everything like a boss huh"?
Ichigo smiles yet again at Rukia's modern day word usage. He just nods to give her an answer.
"That's my King". Rukia beams with pride.
"Oi, I thought I was your king".
"Just share the title this once. Don't get your panties in a twist besides you're still the primary one". Rukia's eye's bulge out and sits up to look him directly into the eyes of a Kami. Rukia just understood he said Kurosaki, Rukia when addressing her. "You still…want to marry…me"?
"Were you paying attention at all just now"? Rukia starts fidgeting with the apron he's still wearing and pouting at the same time. "You're so cute when you're clueless and yes I want to marry you". Rukia smiles at the loving insult.
Their foreheads are pressed together.
"Kami, how I missed touching you…" Rukia sighs running her hands everywhere… "I want to be in your arms forever".
Ichigo is closing his eyes with Rukia's touch leaving a trail of fire in her wake. "Ru-ki-a…it never felt right when she touched me".
"Hmm…" Is all Rukia says as she places soft kisses throughout his neck.
"Luv, if you don't stop I will take you right here right now". Rukia has found a nice spot on the right side of his neck just below his right earlobe to lick and suck. That spot always gets Ichigo's self control and thinking to slip.
Ichigo is starting to gasp and moan into her ear. He is putty in her hands.
"Who's stopping you"? Rukia's wicked left hand is rubbing lower and lower and Ichigo is already standing at attention. If her hand comes any closer he will be saluting her six ways from Sunday.
Rukia abruptly stops. "Yuzu-Chan, we have to go get her. I just left her there". Rukia stands up and dusts her jeans.
Ichigo exhales and stands up fixing his jeans trying to get his soldier to stand at ease. "You're right let's go".
Ichigo spins her so she is facing him, holds her cheeks and plants a brutal releasing pent up frustrations seething kiss on her lips. His tongue brutally assaults her mouth stealing her breath away. His head is unpredictably tilting left and right thoroughly devouring her. He is letting her know he is the only one who can dominate her.
Rukia is doing her best to keep up but all she can do is get weak in the knees and ends up slouching against him so much so Ichigo wraps his left arm around her waist to hold her up to not let her fall.
His right hand is behind her head to keep her in place. He smirks into the kiss and slants his mouth over hers to slide his tongue further down her throat. Rukia is moaning and gripping his back and rear simultaneously. nothing gets her juices flowing like a passionate kiss from Ichigo.
Ichigo pulls his mouth away from hers stands back and places her standing straight then stops holding her.
"Now we can go". Ichigo starts walking away leaving Rukia drunk and weak from his mind blowing kiss. Her body sways a little and she brings her right hand to touch her lips.
Rukia is in a daze. "He must have Strawberry wine in his saliva. Damn…I am so whipped".
Akane is sitting with Yuzu eating Ohagi (Meaning white sticky rice balls with sweet bean paste) coated with different ingredients.
"I definitely need to get the recipes for these Akane-San they are delicious. Akane-San, cheer up you didn't do it on purpose".
"I still feel bad about it. Had I known she was there I would not have said such awful things".
"If you got to know Onee-San you would know she is perfect for Nii-Chan. Prior to meeting her, Nii-Chan would never befriend anyone let alone date anyone. Onee-San changed him for the better".
"If I knew her…" Akane closes her eyes… "If I knew her, indeed…"
Byakuya and Toshiro are sitting with their legs underneath them.
"Do you understand now? The situation is dire Ukitake Taichou". Toshiro sips from his tea cup.
"Jūshirō this is a very personal situation and I believe, we believe you should have a say in how to handle the matter". Byakuya sets the cup down then picks it back up matter of fact he has done so since he received the aromatic liquid.
Jūshirō has his eyes closed in deep thought.
"I just do not understand how it became this way. My heart and mind are at war with each other but Yamamoto-Sama must know. There is no way to avoid it things must not be allowed to progress any further".
When he opens his eyes they reveal such deep sadness and it is taking all of his will not to shed the tears fighting to break free. Byakuya and Toshiro nod and stand up to leave. Byakuya walks over and places his hand on Jūshirō's shoulder and gently squeezes.
Rukia finally caught up to Ichigo and are holding hands. She still has the bear in her other hand.
"Hey, where did you get this apron"?
"It is the name of the Pharmacy".
"Daijūsan no kokoro no Sanshain…something about it rings familiar to me". Rukia continues to repeat it in her mind as if the answer will pop out repeating so much. It annoys her to no end when something like that happens it consumes her mind. The answer is on the tip of her tongue.
They pass the house where the teddy bear was dumped and Ichigo feels Rukia tense up in his hand as well as the energy change. Her gaze is set on the window where a little girl is playing. Ichigo doesn't know what she's looking at but that does not matter.
He tugs her hand and places it on his chest right over his heart. He doesn't stop to look at her but he doesn't have to just like always. They have such a deep connection that words become the third wheel. His heartbeat speaks volume and Rukia fights back tears. His Reiatsu is slowly enveloping her once again and reassuring her.
They make it to the pharmacy and there's a note on the closed large window. Ichigo grabs the note to read it. Rukia looks at the sign of the pharmacy and once again the phrase makes her think.
"Ichigo I have Yuzu-Chan with me at my house. Come over and bring the love of your life so I can properly apologize for being a half wit".
"Rukia come on were going to get Yuzu". Rukia follows as he tugs her hand. "Rukia you feel different".
"I am different, how so"?
"Your Reiryoku, your very soul, I don't know everything, do I"?
"Ah that, it's Sode no Shirayuki…she's missing. I can't hear or feel her". Ichigo stops dead in his tracks.
"How did that happen"? Ichigo stops to fully look at her.
"I honestly do not know. When I came to after you roused me from oblivion I couldn't feel her. Sadly I realized as time passes nothing changes. She remains gone".
"Luv this is serious. What can we do"?
"Captain Ukitake says I should go back and have Captain Unohana take a look at me".
"I agree with him you definitely should not be here with me. You come first and Sode no Shirayuki is part of you". He cups her face again and his eyes are shining with adoration and pride. "The both of you have saved my family and friends not to mention saved my ass several times. I have to say she jolted life into me that fateful night so finding her is top priority".
Rukia takes a shaky breath fighting back tears. "Ichigo if you continue to talk like that I am going to melt into a puddle mess on the street".
"Don't worry I'll mold you back up. I have got magical hands but inappropriate innuendos aside you are going straight to Soul Society and I am coming with you. Well after we get Yuzu home".
Ichigo pulls her and they arrive at Akane's neighborhood. Rukia knows her mind should be on Sode no Shirayuki's whereabouts t but all she can think of right now is raping Ichigo till he loses all ability to think let alone speak.
'Damn I am whipped'. Rukia muses inside her mind how it is not appropriate for a Kuchiki to behave and think such primitive thoughts.
Captain Yamamoto is holding his cane in a vice grip looking at Ukitake. Byakuya and Toshiro have already left.
"Why is it that the past does not remain buried where it is supposed to remain? It is at times like this when we must understand the importance of a Shinigami's duty to be fulfilled thoroughly and without regrets". Yamamoto sighs after stating so.
"Aa, Yamamoto-Sama it is sometimes duty that leaves us with regrets". Ukitake has his eyes closed as she speaks his thoughts. "There are things in this world and any other world where words or actions left unspoken hinders one's ability to rest in peace. We often forget we are beings with feelings and emotions not just enforcers of law".
Yamamoto looks at his subordinate and one of his longest and dearest pupils. This is wearing him down a lot more then he has seen in a while. What could he say at a time like this? Words will be of no comfort so instead they sit in silence. Yamamoto releasing his strong and unyielding Reiatsu hoping his feelings are conveying to one of his dearest friends.
Renji, Byakuya and Toshiro are with Isshin now at his house. . Shūhei is with Karin back at Urahara's. She would have raised hell but with her current escort there really is no reason to create a fuss.
"This is serious you should definitely get to them fast". Isshin exhales loudly and his face is serious.
Rukia and Ichigo are two houses away from Akane's home.
"Ichigo are you sure you're still not mad at me"?
"Rukia I would be lying if I said no. I feel like you didn't believe in me anymore like what we had been not worth fighting for". Rukia's face becomes troubled again. "I just think we both need time to handle our issues together". His grip on her hand tightens which makes her hopeful and Rukia nods with determination.
"Yes, together…" Rukia freezes on the spot. Ichigo looks at her with concern… "I do want you to know that you are definitely worth fighting for Ichigo but sometimes letting go is the way to fight to protect what you love". Rukia places a finger to his lips to silence his protest at the letting go to fight part.
Ichigo sighs heavily and will let the subject drop for now. "What's up midget you look constipated"? Rukia smacks Ichigo across the back of his head. "Ow, midget…"
"I had wondered why no Hollows had showed up to the park with all that Reiatsu you were spewing there when we were arguing".
"Yeah, so what of it? Maybe we got lucky or got frightened away by your loud yelling". Ichigo is rubbing his head to take off the sting from her hit.
Rukia hits him again in the same spot a little harder. "Hollows do not get scared away that easily smart mouth Strawberry. Once again kido spells run right past your slow senses. Ichigo is this your friend's house"?
Ichigo is pouting and mutters… "Yes this is Akane's house".
"Can't you feel it? Slow your heart and clear your senses". Rukia lets go of his hand. Ichigo does what she says for a few seconds and then his eyes open with understanding.
"You're right something is coming off of this house but I can't tell if it's good or bad".
Rukia is standing right in front of the house. "Ichigo we need to find Yuzu-Chan and your friend". Ichgio nods his head and stands in front of her before knocking on the door. The door opens slowly and Ichigo pushes the door the rest of the way to walk in.
"Ichigo wait a… " Rukia tries to pull him back but he walks inside before she can touch him. Rukia follows inside but Ichigo is nowhere to be found matter of fact there is no furniture or a single soul around. The door behind her folds onto itself like a piece of napkin being folded into a small single square until it totally disappears.
"Damn it I was afraid of this. Ichigo, Yuzu-Chan, can you guys hear me"? Rukia cannot sense anyone or anything. The kido spell is confusing her doing its job well. It is nothing but empty space like a void. Rukia knows better than to walk around she would end up nowhere or get farther in.
A path with foot prints appear leading farther inside. Rukia doesn't hesitate and follows the prints. Rukia suddenly feels like she has vertigo so she shuts her eyes trying to get her bearings.
'Shit'! Rukia feels like hurling but she holds it in. Once the horrible sensation lessons she opens her amethyst orbs. Rukia is in a long hallway with sick paintings on the wall.
Rukia takes a deep breath and exhales trying to stay focused. She can feel Ichigo and Yuzu somewhere nearby so she picks up the pace. It seems the paintings become grimmer as she walks closer to the huge door. The place feels cold and the loss of life in the macabre paintings just makes your stomach turn.
Rukia pushes the door completely open and there is a throne with a cloaked figure occupying the seat. It is definitely the figure of a woman. Rukia has no more patience left but must hold back until she knows where Ichigo and Yuzu are.
The cloaked figure moves her hand and a window unfolds showing Ichigo and Yuzu appearing to be suspended in animation. Each has a red ring around their necks their hands are spread outwards on their sides as if being crucified. Yuzu is out cold but Ichigo is conscious and trying to get out from the restraints. Rukia can tell he is yelling at the top of his lungs.
"Ichigo I am here do not worry! I am going to get the both of you out of there"! Rukia's voice sounds more terrified then she would like but memories of that horrible night are creeping up into her mind. Rukia feels her heart racing and not in a good way. She pushes away the tears threatening to slip out.
Once again she takes a deep breath to calm down she also realizes Ichigo can see and hear her. He is mouthing the words... "It will be okay, I love you, we are okay, and I am coming to you"… Rukia rubs her eyes hard and nods at him.
"My, my already showing weakness…" Rukia looks away from Ichigo to look up at the figure. The voice sounds familiar… "I thought Kuchiki's showed not such emotion".
"Who are you and what have you done to them"?
"I am the same one that tried to cleanse your guilty soul".
"What do you mean by that? Are you a Shinigami"?
"I am no such thing".
"We have been playing cat and mouse long enough. Who are you"? Rukia's voice and eyes are cold as ice.
"Ahh, there is the Kuchiki we all respect. The name demands respects, prestige, honor, loyalty…though you are not a descendant you command it none the less".
"My lineage is irrelevant here. What do you want from me"? Rukia's voice is sharp, devoid of emotion and Ichigo wonders if Rukia really is not Byakuya's blood relative.
"What do I want from you? Dai 13 no kokoro no hizashi…"
Rukia remembers the slogan from the pharmacy. "You are Akane".
The cloaked figure turns away from Rukia to face the painting over the throne.
"Can you really give me what I asked? I suppose Akane is the right name for the world of the living. Has it really been that long? I tend to lose track Kuchiki, Rukia. It has been a truly long grueling time for me".
"CAN YOU REALLY GIVE ME BACK WHAT I LOST"! Akane's voice is loud like a shriek and Rukia covers her ears. She looks over to Ichigo who seems to be grimacing due to the awful sound. The place vibrates.
Rukia has a moment of clarity Dai 13 no kokoro no hizashi… (Reminder: Japanese words for Sunshine of the Thirteenth Heart) Rukia's hands drop from covering her ears, her eyes are open to their fullest extent, she visibly becomes pale, her body is trembling and Ichigo sensing the change in her demeanor starts struggling harder. Of course Kaien's heart was like the sun in the Thirteenth Division and to many outside as well.
"Finally it all falls into place for you…" Akane lowers the hood of the cloak but doesn't turn around to face Rukia… "So I ask you again Kuchiki, Rukia, can you return him to me"?
Rukia starts gasping for breath and is perspiring too. Ichigo shuts his eyes trying to get to his inner world.
'Zangetsuhell Shiro, can anybody hear me"? Ichigo gets a jolt throughout his body. 'Shit! Every time I try to transform it doesn't work I just get zapped'!
"Yuzu, sweetheart, can you wake up"? Ichigo has tried calling out to her ever since he woke up and saw her tied up like this. He cannot sense if she is even alive. This place is covered with Kido. He can hear and see everything clearly. Not having any control is driving him insane. He needs to get Yuzu and Rukia out of here. 'Who the fuck is Akane really'?
"What, cat got your tongue Kuchiki"? Akane turns around to face Rukia. "My sunshine, my heart, you ripped it all from me for that damned Kuchiki sense of duty of pride and you think no one would make you pay"?
"Mi-ya-ko…Dono…" Rukia's voice is small and pained. Ichigo looks terrified.
'Miyako…isn't that Shiba, Kaien's wife'? Ichigo is confused.
"Do not call me that! That woman died a long time ago when you gutted my heart without a second thought"!
Rukia bites her lips through the tears and though she would love to hug one of her inspirations her legs fail her. The guilt makes her legs feel like they are in wet cement sinking along with her heart. Just like that Rukia is back to being the insecure frightened undeserving unseated officer.
"Rukia, look at me! Luv, look at me"! Ichigo is trying to get her attention desperately.
"Rukia, do you think it would be alright to kill my husband and be rewarded with a happy life"?
"Akane please stop. This is not you"! Ichigo is trying to reach her.
Miyako continues as if she doesn't hear him.
"Do you deserve to have a husband and kids after killing Kaien? I was expecting a baby just like you"!
Rukia looks straight at Miyako surprise etched onto her face.
"That's right I too was planning to have a family of my own with my husband". Miyako's voice actually softens.
"I never knew…" Rukia trails off.
"Of course you didn't. No one did. I wanted to surprise him. I had found out three days before that Kami awful mission. Something or someone always interfered and our paths barely crossed taking my options away. Rukia-Chan how could you take him away from me"?
Rukia shakes her head.
"I had no choice. He was gone. Don't you think I wanted to save Kaien-Dono"!
"You do not have the right to call him as such! I noticed the way you looked at him. You wanted him for yourself and when you realized it would never be there was a bitter taste left".
Ichigo is concentrating stilling his body in place. Every time it looks like he will break it he gets jolted painfully like Rukia did that horrid night. He is really starting to freak out wondering if his Hollow side will be controlled again. It is high Kido skill. He tries not to make noise but the pain is making him grunt.
Rukia snaps her head to look at him.
"Ichigo stop moving please".
"Listen to her it is too much for you and it will only intensify with resistance". Miyako warns him. "I really don't want to hurt you anymore".
Byakuya, Renji and Toshiro are inside the house. They can feel Rukia, Yuzu and Ichigo but cannot pinpoint where exactly. They also feel Miyako's dark presence.
"Captain what do we do"? Renji sounds desperate.
"There is a doorway to somewhere else here we just need to find it". Toshiro states matter of factly.
"What we need is a Kido spell to counter the existing one. Hitsugaya is accurate but the spell must be broken to open that doorway. 'I am coming Yuzu, Rukia, even Ichigo the brat. Wait since when does Kurosaki, Yuzu comes first'?
"Kuchiki, Kuchiki keep it together you are zoning out". Toshiro snaps Byakuya from his inner turmoil but has enlightenment written all over his face.
"Miyako-Dono please let them go. They have no reason to pay for what I did". Yuzu is waking up which goes unnoticed by Ichigo.
"I wanted to kill him at first in the same manner you had Kaien but I got to know him and my plans changed. I told you not to call me that! You are not nor ever were my Nakama you indeed are my enemy and was from the beginning. You lusted after my husband and wanted to be me".
"You are right…" Ichigo snaps his gaze up to look at her. Miyako is also looking intently at the confession.
"I did want to be you so desperately. You had everything I wanted. Respect, honor and love everything a woman dreams off. The warmth in which you basked in from your Nakama and husband was something unheard of to me. I came to realize it was admiration and I inspired to be like you. The gentleness and care you gave me and others everyday was unmatched. You were my role model. You truly were sunshine".
Miyako narrows her eyes.
"Kaien-Dono awakened in me foreign feelings. He helped me find my resolve made me believe in myself. I achieved Shikai with him. It was the first time I felt empowered and that I deserved to be where I was. He treated me like anyone else in the squad. I did love Kaien-Dono how can I not. He taught me self worth and also taught me where to leave my heart…" Rukia places her right hand over her heart… "When the time comes that is".
If looks could kill Rukia would be dead due to Miyako.
"But it was never romantic or lust he was my mentor as you were and I loved you both…" Rukia shakes her head… "Captain Ukitake tried to save him but there was no way to separate him from the Hollow…"
"Silence I have had enough of your treacherous tongue! Ichigo has an inner Hollow why haven't you impaled him yet"! Miyako pulls off the cloak and pulls out her Zanpakuto. She is wearing black boots up to her knees with a short red kimono reaching mid thigh.
"I let you carry your babies and let you believe you would have it all and when the time came strip you bare of everything you hold dear and leave you barren inside out. I wanted to drag out your pain till the last minute even reliving each and every minute of it until you ceased to exist".
Rukia has not told anyone that fact she suffered through all her memories along with the physical pain. Ichigo is fuming in anger. Rukia is too saddened to feel anger yet.
"I used Senna-Chan to get rid of you and thought perhaps she could console Ichigo since you stole him from under Orihime-Chan. How does it feel to rob the cradle? You couldn't steal my husband so you stole her boyfriend. Well my plan almost worked"!
"I made it so easy for you…from the very beginning. You had everything planned out. You played Kami with so many lives".
"No one died except you and your unborn but do not fret…you will be joining them soon enough".
Ichigo is screaming his lungs out and doesn't realize his voice is unheard by Rukia though he can hear everything.
Yuzu has been mumbling however Ichigo has not noticed her doing so.
"Your life is forfeit Kuchiki, Rukia it became so the moment you ran your Zanpakuto through my husband's chest. You didn't give him a chance. Funny I never understood what 'Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned' meant and now I am consumed by it"
Ichigo feels the rings on him become loose when he notices Yuzu's mumbling with her eyes closed.
"Yuzu, are you okay? Does it hurt anywhere"? Yuzu opens her eyes for a moment and they are no longer their normal hue instead they are green. "Yuzu…"?
"Gomenasai, it is all I can do at the moment". Yuzu smiles apologetically and shuts her eyes once again concentrating.
Rukia still has no power not even enough to counter any Kido spell let alone use her Zanpakuto. Miyako lunges at Rukia which she dodges. Ichigo turns to look at the sudden breaking sound of furniture but on close inspection it is not exactly breaking. Miyako's Zanpakuto upon touching the furniture explodes it in fire. Smoke is starting to form everywhere. Rukia is coughing.
"Oh Kami, Rukia look out! Damn it all I need to get free"! Ichigo continues desperately to get free.
Rukia now has some cuts and bruises since all she could manage to do is doge the attacks.
"Stop dragging out the inevitable and accept delayed justice"! Miyako screams.
Yuzu is perspiring from effort but manages to get the rings to fall off her and Ichigo. As they are suspended in midair once the rings lose power they fall to the ground. Ichigo manages to grab Yuzu and spins her so that he lands on his back with her on his chest. Yuzu is unconscious once again.
"What the hell was that? Yuzu stopped the Kido…but how"? Ichigo grimaces a little feeling the brunt from the fall.
Ichigo sets down Yuzu gently. "Thanks Yuzu though I do not know how you managed to do this". Ichigo tries to transform but no dice.
"Rukia I will take your life"! Miyako lunges full force at Rukia with her Zanpakuto precise and straight to Rukia's chest. The tip about to enter. Rukia does not flinch and remains put.
Ichigo screams at the top of his lungs. "RUKIA, NOOOO…"!
Author's note: Hi my wicked ones! There was extra mush in this chappy but come on our favorite couple need it after all they have been through. After their loss they need to vent out to help with the healing process. Hope you guys enjoy it! =D In regards to the argument I am pretty sure some of you have witnessed ones where they start on one particular subject then that opens a whole other can of worms. Lol I have been through it and yelled for almost the entire time =( lol Anyhow Thanks RT, TKZ, RB and QT for the reviews you guys are awesome! =D
Disclaimer: I do not own Honda or any of their vehicles
