Author's Note:
As promised; here is the epilogue! This story has been so much fun to write, and I am very happy I finally have a HitsuKarin fic to my name :-D I have loved this pair for years, and read so many amazing pieces focusing on them from several amazingly talented writers. There are too many to name, but some of my favorite authors for HitsuKarin stories include: Adobo-chan (#1 Fav author), Ichilover3, GrnEydDvl, and Glowing Blue. Check out their work, if you haven't already! I hope that my stories are just as high quality as these wonderful writers', and I sincerely hope you've enjoyed it.
Thank you all so much for the reviews, kind words, and for sticking with this till the end! Now, let's see this story off with a big farewell!
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach. All credit goes to Tite Kubo. I only take credit for my own OCs in this chapter.
Their wedding day, while far more labor-intensive than Karin would have wished, had easily been one of the best days of their lives. If it had been up to Karin and Toshiro, they would have been happy to simply elope, and avoid the absolute chaos that usually came with the planning and execution of a full wedding. They both knew, however, that Yuzu and Rangiku would never forgive them if they did, so they'd opted for an actual ceremony instead.
All in all, they'd ended up being very glad that they didn't take the easy route, and just go to the registry office. They'd chosen to get married on New Year's Eve, so they could ring in the new year with their new life together. Christmas and New Year's decorations were everywhere, making the small town of Karakura look like a scene out of a Hallmark movie. While Kisuke had offered up the mansion again for the ceremony and reception, the couple decided they wanted to do something different from Yuzu and Jinta's special day; so, they politely declined Urahara's offer.
In the end, even though it was winter, they'd decided to exchange their vows in the very same park that they first met in thirteen years ago; hoping the weather would hold. There was a gazebo in the center of the park, with the soccer field just barely visible in the background, which they felt would be the perfect spot for the ceremony. What made it even better was that, given the time of year, the gazebo had already been decorated in garland, lights, and holly. It looked less like a park, and more like a winter wonderland; complete with a fresh coating of snow. Chairs and lanterns were placed outside on the day, and everyone except Karin, Toshiro, and the bridal party dressed in a warm winter coat and gloves for the ceremony itself. Yes, it had been cold standing outside at dusk in December, but it had been worth it. From their spot in the park, the lit up Karakura town could be seen in the distance, and the setting sun cast the most beautiful peachy-pink glow across the sky; the dark of the evening just starting to creep in on the array of color as the ceremony began.
Yuzu had been the maid of honor; with Rukia, Rangiku, Momo, and Orihime acting as bridesmaids. Karin let them choose out their own dresses, like her sister had done, and only stipulated that they be green. All of the girls (minus Momo) had opted for long-sleeved, floor-length gowns; but the styles differed slightly between them all. While Yuzu's was comprised entirely of a delicate floral lace pattern, with her sleeves being made of just the lace; Rukia's was a velvet, off-the-shoulder gown. Rangiku's was, of course, a plunge neck style made with polyester fabric; and Orihime chose a high-neck dress made from a shimmery fabric. It had a teardrop-shaped opening on her chest, which just showed a small portion of her large bust. Momo was the only one who had opted out of long sleeves; choosing out a strapless, plain green dress, and accessorizing it with a black bolero jacket.
Toshiro's choice for best man had been a surprise to everyone, including the best man himself. Ichigo had been shocked when the young prodigy had asked him to fill the role, but agreed none the less. The two men had grown closer during Hitsugaya's time with them while training Karin; and, overall, their relationship was solid. With Jushiro gone, and Isshin being the one giving Karin away, he thought that the substitute Shinigami would be the best person to ask in their stead. He really didn't have many friends other than Hinamori and Matsumoto to begin with, so his choices had been slim to start; however, he really did want Ichigo as his best man for more reasons than just a lack of choice. He respected the young Kurosaki, despite Ichigo's repeated threats of violence against him whenever it came to Karin, and Ichigo's 'boundaries' with her. He and the substitute still went at it verbally quite often, but they had a mutual respect and appreciation for each other that Toshiro valued; plus, he was Karin's brother, and Toshiro wanted to strengthen their bond; since he would soon be a part of the family. He'd been glad that Ichigo had agreed so readily, despite his confusion at the choice.
Toshiro's groomsmen had consisted of Shuhei, Izuru, Renji, and Ryohei Toba, one of Karin's childhood friends. While she had kept in touch with all of her friends on her old soccer team, she had remained closest to Ryohei. Consequently, Toshiro had seen quite a bit of the young man during his stay in the world of the living, and the two had bonded to a certain extent. While Ryohei maintained his perverted nature from childhood, he was much more careful to keep it under wraps now; knowing Karin would beat the crap out of him if he made any off-color remarks. Outside of that, however, he'd grown into a mature and relatively serious young man; so he melded decently well with Toshiro, and the two had formed a friendship. Ryohei still lived close by; that being the main reason Karin had remained closest to him. The others had moved away for college, and settled down in the cities they'd gone to school in. They didn't come back very often after graduation, so Karin didn't see much of them. Ryohei no longer sported his mop of long blonde hair on top of his head; having abandoned it in favor of a short haircut in his natural black. He'd grown a short, well-maintained beard, and was now around Isshin's height; sporting the same build as the elder Kurosaki. Toshiro had been glad Ryohei had agreed to be the final groomsman, as the only other person he would consider asking would have been Shunsui, and he wasn't super keen on asking the Head Captain of the Gotei 13 to be in his wedding. Knowing Shunsui, the man would have tried to stage some sort of elaborate stunt during the ceremony to embarrass him.
Everyone in the bridal party had been very helpful with organizing the event, and getting everything set up; and the ceremony had gone perfectly. Watching Karin walk down the aisle towards him had been one of the proudest moments of Toshiro's life. He couldn't believe that he was standing there, and that in just a few minutes, he'd be able to call her his wife; to stand beside her, and be her helpmeet and companion for the rest of their lives. She looked absolutely stunning, and he found himself unable to take his eyes off of her for the entire ceremony. Karin was a woman of simple taste; she didn't like frills, lace, or anything puffy and frou-frou. While Yuzu's wedding dress had been more akin to something you'd see in a Disney princess movie, Karin's dress was simple and elegant. It was a mermaid-style; made of simple, plain white satin. The dress was long-sleeved, with a deep V-neck, and simple beading along the V cut. She decided she didn't want a veil, despite Yuzu's, Rukia's, and even Matsumoto's protests. She had let the girls persuade her on her hairstyle, though, and it had come out perfectly. They had fashioned her hair into a relatively loose fishtail braid that came over her left shoulder; with small white roses and pearls intermixed throughout the hairdo; her bangs lightly curled into soft waves to frame her face. The only jewelry she had on was her engagement ring, and the locket he'd given her for her birthday. She had on a light amount of makeup, and sheer lip gloss. She looked breathtaking, and Isshin stood next to her with the biggest smile on his face that Toshiro had ever seen.
When his soon-to-be father-in-law had handed Karin over to him, the two men nodded to each other; smiles on their faces as Isshin relinquished the care of his last child over to another man that he knew he could trust with her heart and happiness. Karin herself was half-smirking, half-smiling at her soon-to-be husband; the look on her face saying 'Are you ready for this?'. Toshiro had smiled back at her, giving her a very subtle nod in confirmation; his face looking happier and more at peace than she'd ever seen. Her smirk disappeared completely; replaced by a contented smile as the priest began the ceremony.
When they had finished their vows, and solidified their union with a kiss, the entire audience had stood up, and cheered. No one who was there had thought this day would happen until Karin passed on to the Soul Society, but here they all were; celebrating an event that would have been impossible just thirteen years ago. Ichigo had been the first person to break down the thousands of years of rigid institutionalism and bureaucracy of the Soul Society; and now, just thirteen years later, events like this were no longer an impossibility. Instead, they were a sign of things to come; a future where their two separate worlds could interact more freely, and mix in new and exciting ways.
After the formal ceremony was over, everyone headed over to Furin Hall; now named the T.W.O (Two Worlds, One) Family Dojo in honor of both Ichigo and his connection to the Soul Society, and the Arisawa and Hitsugaya families' new co-ownership. The place had been decorated with lights, sheer white fabric, garland, ornaments, and even a Christmas tree; it was beautiful, and perfectly befitting the winter wonderland theme the entire town had adopted for the holiday season. There wasn't a trace of the standard dojo left. It was a huge building, so there was plenty of room for dancing and refreshments. Karin and Toshiro had decided to keep things simple, so the only thing they did at the dojo in terms of food was finger foods, and cutting the cake. They had wanted to keep their wedding smaller than Yuzu and Jinta's had been, so they didn't invite as many people. Neither of them had as many friends, either, so it worked out well. Aside from her family, her bridesmaids, and her brother's childhood friends whom she grew up with, Karin also invited Yoruichi, Kisuke, Ururu, a handful of people she'd become friends with through school, and the rest of her old soccer buddies; plus a few Shinigami she'd gotten to know during her short visit to Soul Society for her Bankai training, like Hanataro and Yumichika. Toshiro had invited all the captains and their lieutenants, his groomsmen, a few members from his former division, and of course Head Captain Kyoraku and Nanao Ise; along with the remainder of the Visored who had returned to the world of the living after the war.
The rest of the party had been a blast, with Karin and Toshiro opening the evening with their first dance as husband and wife; followed by Karin and Isshin's father-daughter dance. After that, everyone had joined in, and the dancefloor remained packed for the remainder of the night. Ururu had agreed to be the photographer again, and was flitting around the dojo with her camera for most of the evening. There was plenty of laughter, jokes, and sweet moments between the bride and groom that yet again made some of Toshiro's old subordinates question his usually icy nature. The maid of honor and best man's speeches were sweet, and humorous, respectively; with Ichigo, thankfully, only taking a couple of good-natured shots at the groom. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and Yuzu even told Karin that she would soon be an aunt again; a revelation that had the dark-haired twin over the moon, and giving her six-week pregnant sister a big hug. She made the announcement to the guests, and everyone cheered; congratulating the Hanakaris on their soon-to-be expanded family.
Toshiro had given Yuzu a congratulatory hug as well, before taking Karin's hand in his, and giving it a light squeeze. When she looked at him, she could see everything he wasn't saying reflected in his eyes, and she smiled lovingly back at him. She knew he was looking forward to expanding their own family soon. While they'd agreed they didn't want kids right away, deciding it would be a good idea to get themselves established in their new married life first, they definitely wanted children in the next two to three years. They were looking forward to starting this new chapter in their lives, and seeing what would come out of it.
At midnight, everyone rushed outside to see the New Year's Eve fireworks that the town put on every year. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day, and Karin and Toshiro couldn't have been happier about how everything had gone. When the fireworks show was over, everybody headed home, or to the places where they were staying for the night; with Toshiro bidding a final goodbye for the foreseeable future to his former lieutenant, his childhood friend, and the captains he'd served with for decades. Rangiku had been in tears; giving him the biggest hug she could manage as her former captain tried to pacify her with a promise that they would visit when they could. Momo had been able to keep the tears at bay, but her eyes had definitely been shining when she gave them both a hug goodbye, and ruffled his hair one more time before bidding 'Little Shiro' a final farewell. All of the captains had given the young prodigy either a hug or a handshake; wishing him the best of luck with his new bride, and his new life. Finally, Shunsui gave him a firm handshake; thanking him again for his many years of service, and giving him the best wishes of both himself as Head Captain, and Central 46. Shunsui reiterated that he and Karin were welcome any time, and that he'd look forward to updates as their life in the world of the living progressed. Toshiro had nodded, and thanked Shunsui once more for letting him take this chance, and pursue a different path; with Shunsui responding that he was happy things in the Soul Society were changing enough to be able to facilitate this. After that, all of the Shinigami departed back to the Soul Society; with only Rukia, Renji, and Ichika staying to visit for a few more days with Ichigo and his family.
The Kurosaki Clinic was putting up the Abarais, and Tatsuki had agreed to let Karin's old soccer buddies stay with her for the night. So, the newlyweds decided to spend the night at their newly purchased home just down the street from the clinic.
Saying a final goodnight to everyone; giving Yuzu, Isshin, and Ichigo a hug goodbye; and thanking Tatsuki again for the use of the dojo, the couple had headed back to their house to get a few hours of sleep before leaving on their honeymoon. Karin had always wanted to visit America, and take a tour of the major cities, as well as see the more rural portions of the country; so, that's what they decided to do. Their plane was taking off in six hours, so they had about three and a half hours to get some sleep before heading over to Haneda Airport.
Surprisingly, Toshiro had been looking forward to this new adventure almost as much as he was looking forward to the new adventure of his life with Karin. He couldn't believe how much everything had changed in the course of just one year; but, looking at Karin dressed in white, and with the official last name of Hitsugaya, he knew he wouldn't have it any other way. They were like Yin and Yang; destined to be together, and circling each other in an endless cycle. He couldn't wait to see what would come next for them, and he knew they had a great future ahead.
After all these years, and everything that had happened in the interim, they'd finally found each other again. What started out as a simple assignment became a journey neither of them expected, and changed the course of their lives forever. That journey had now ended the moment they said their vows, and it was time to embark on a new one…
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Ten Years Later…
"Come on! The senkaimon won't stay open forever!" Toshiro hollered after landing on the ground of the Seireitei for the first time in over ten years; his old captain's haori billowing behind him. Nothing seemed to have changed, though he wasn't surprised; things rarely ever changed in Soul Society, and everything was just as he remembered. It felt good to return, in a way. Even though he loved his life in the world of the living, he missed his old home, and the people he'd left behind. He wouldn't trade his life with Karin for anything, but he did look back on his time as a captain with fondness.
Karin landed beside him; her hands on her hips as she surveyed the scenery before her. "Man, it feels like ages ago that I was here for Bankai training. Nothing seems to have changed." she said; looking over at her husband.
Toshiro gave her a small smirk in response. "Things don't typically change much in the Soul Society."
She returned the smirk with one of her own before looking briefly back out in front of her…until they heard a very loud, high-pitched shriek in the distance. Spinning their heads towards their right, the former captain was pulled into a hug by a very excited busty blonde. "Captaaaaaaiiiiiiiiiin! It's so good to see you again! It's been WAY too long!" Rangiku said as she pulled back, and took a good look at the young man. He hadn't changed much at all; he was still just as handsome as ever, and the wrinkles that were present around his eyes from pictures she'd seen of him were gone. 'Urahara must have made him an updated gigai that ages like a normal human body, so his aesthetics match Karin's.' she thought as she turned her attention from her former captain to his wife. Karin now sported just a few wrinkles around her eyes, but she clearly kept herself in very good shape; as she was still just as thin, fit, and curvy as Rangiku remembered. "Karin! How are you?! I can't believe it's been ten years! You look great!" she said excitedly; giving the young woman a hug.
Karin smiled back at the bubbly captain; happy to see her again. "Thanks, Rangiku; I've been really well. Yeah, it's been way too long. I'm sorry we haven't come for a visit till now; life's been crazy these past ten years. How have you been? How's being a captain treating you, and how's Shuhei doing?" she asked; curious to get an update on the busty blonde's life face-to-face instead of through sporadic notes and pictures between the two families brought back and forth by Ichigo whenever he had business in Soul Society.
Rangiku's smile widened, and her eyes shone with happiness. "I hear you about life being crazy the past decade. I've been good! Being a captain is hard work, but I've discovered how rewarding it is when you commit yourself to it. Besides, I also have subordinates that I can pass work off to, now!" she said gleefully; making Toshiro sigh in irritation beside his smirking wife.
Giggling to herself, she continued. "Thankfully, Shuhei is incredibly understanding when I have to put in late nights at the office, so he takes care of things at home for me. He's super busy, too, but his captain makes sure not to overload him with work when he knows Shuhei needs to be home with the kids."
Karin was glad to hear that things in Rangiku's life seemed to be going well, although she noticed that a few people were absent from their little reunion. "Speaking of the kids, where are they? I want to finally meet them." she asked; raising a curious eyebrow.
Rangiku pointed to her left, and both heads pivoted back in that direction. In the distance, Shuhei waved a hand in greeting; a smile on his face as he walked toward them. "Hey guys! Sorry we're a few minutes late; I had to pick up Kaname at the academy first." he said as the nine-year-old boy at his side came running up to them. He had spiky black hair, like his father, but he'd inherited his blue eyes from his mother. "Uncle Toshiro, Aunt Karin!" he hollered; running up to them, and giving them a hug. He'd never met his adoptive aunt and uncle before, and he'd been looking forward to their visit for weeks.
Smiling happily, and hugging the boy back, Karin and Toshiro observed that, while he was practically the spitting image of his father, he seemed to have inherited his mother's bubbly personality, and bright smile.
Upon releasing the boy, Toshiro shook Shuhei's hand in greeting; Karin opting to give the lieutenant a hug. Looking around, they tried to spot the final missing person from the Hisagi family.
Rangiku smirked, knowing who they were looking for, before pointing once again to her husband; Shuhei stepping aside to reveal a little girl with strawberry blonde hair and bright green eyes hiding behind his legs; uncertainty evident on her face.
Karin smiled at the little girl; bending down, and waving to her. "Hi Asami. I'm your Aunt Karin, and this is your Uncle Toshiro." she said; pointing to her husband. Toshiro bent down to meet the little girl's gaze; a soft smile on his face. "Hi there, Asami. I know we may seem strange, but I promise we're your friends. Your mom has known me since I was a kid. I've been looking forward to meeting you." he said; reaching into his pocket, and pulling out a lollypop. The little girl's eyes lit up, and she rushed over to the former captain; taking the lollypop from him, removing the wrapper, and shoving it into her mouth with a smile on her face. "Okay, I like you." she said; giving him and Karin a hug as the adults chuckled at the child's actions. For being only five years old, she clearly had a mind of her own.
Rangiku watched the interaction with a warm smile on her face; happy to see her children accept the man she herself considered a little brother/adopted son. "Sorry; she inherited Shuhei's shy personality, but doesn't she look a lot like me?" she asked; pride in her eyes as she looked at her daughter. Little Asami definitely favored her mother in looks, having the same silky and wavy hair as Rangiku. She also inherited her mother's beauty mark, fair skin, big eyes, long eyelashes, and facial structure; there was no doubt she would live up to her name, and grow up into a beautiful young woman one day.
Karin and Toshiro nodded their agreement in unison. "Yeah, she does look a lot like you, Rangiku. Shuhei, you'll have a hard time keeping the boys away." Karin replied; a sly smile on her face as she watched the lieutenant's face contort with paternal protective anger. "Oh, trust me, I won't have any trouble 'filtering out' the boys later on." he said; a rather dark smirk on his face which made Karin laugh. She knew that look well; Toshiro had adopted it a couple of times already, and their daughter was only eight. 'Oh, speaking of Yue, where is she?' she thought as she looked to her husband; confusion on her face. "Hey, Toshiro, where are the kids?" she asked; watching as surprise, followed by slight panic, made its way onto his face. "Dammit" he muttered as he looked around for his brood, but saw nothing, and no one. "I'm not sure. Hang on a second; I'll be right back." he said; shunpoing out of sight.
Karin sighed, and wondered yet again why this always happened whenever they took the kids on a trip. "We need to get leashes for them or something." she muttered; just loud enough for Rangiku to hear, which caused the blonde to laugh. "Oh, I sympathize, Karin, I really do." she said through her laughter.
Not five minutes later, Toshiro returned with everyone in tow. "They hadn't gone far, but I reminded them again that they need to stay with us while we're here. The last thing I want is Zaraki getting a hold of them." he said; an exasperated and protective look on his face as he let everybody go.
Upon seeing the kids, Rangiku let out a squeal of excitement that could shatter glass, before rushing over to one of the twin boys. "EEEEEEEEEECK, it's a mini-captain!" she shrieked as she scooped up Karin and Toshiro's son who could pass as his father's twin from when he was that age. He had the same white hair, turquoise eyes, and scowl as his father; even his facial features were identical to the ex-captain's.
The last time Ichigo had needed to come to Soul Society was a week after the boys arrived, so Rangiku hadn't been able to see any pictures of the twins besides the family picture Isshin had taken of the Hitsugaya clan just an hour after the boys were born. Karin had been holding one baby, and Toshiro had been holding the other; both of them sitting on the hospital bed, with Momo holding Yue; everyone smiling at the camera as the little two-year-old girl in her aunt's arms sucked her thumb. The only thing Rangiku had known about the twins were their names, and she was thrilled to see that one of them, at least, took after their father in terms of looks.
Toshiro smirked as he watched his six-year-old son struggle against his former lieutenant's suffocating grasp; the young boy's face almost completely smothered by her large bust. "Let go of me! I can't breathe!" he hollered at her when he was finally able to get his face out of her ample chest for just a moment. Rangiku looked over at her now chuckling captain; a massive sense of déjà vu overcoming her from when she first met Toshiro in the market all those years ago. "Wow, captain, he even has your personality! He's literally your carbon copy." she said while the boy struggled to break free.
Toshiro smirked, and nodded at her. "Yeah, he really is; the similarities are almost frightening. Now, Rangiku, I'd appreciate it if you didn't suffocate Jushiro on our first day here."
Rangiku smiled fondly at hearing the familiar name. "I still love it that you named him after Captain Ukitake. Are you going to visit while you're here?" she asked; fond memories of the boy's namesake flooding her mind.
Toshiro merely smiled, and nodded; fondness for the late captain reflected in his own eyes. "We'll stop by his grave during our visit, so Jushiro can see it. I thought it would be good for him to pay his respects while we're here."
"That's a great idea, captain." Rangiku replied before putting Jushiro down, and looking over at the other two children now standing next to Karin. Contrary to his twin brother, the other small boy had inherited his mother's black hair, though both the boys wore their hair in similar styles to Toshiro's when he was a kid. While he looked like a mix of his mother, his uncle Ichigo, and his cousin Kaien in both facial and body structure, he did inherit his father's turquoise eyes; the only trait the two boys seemed to share. Standing behind him was a very pretty girl with pin-straight, silky, snow-white hair, her mother's big stormy grey eyes, and long eyelashes. She'd inherited Karin's facial and body structure, but Rangiku could also see traces of her grandmother Masaki in the young girl. The 10th division captain could already tell that she would grow up to be a real beauty, just like her mother and grandmother.
Toshiro, noticing his former lieutenant assessing his other children with a huge smile on her face, decided to officially introduce everyone to her. "Rangiku, these are your niece and nephews: Yue, Jushiro, and Kenji. Kids, say hello to your Aunt Rangiku, Uncle Shuhei, and their children Kaname and Asami."
The three children greeted Rangiku and Shuhei properly before walking up to the Hisagi kids, and saying hello; the two boys trying to get Asami to play with them while Yue and Kaname started talking about Shinigami training. The four adults stood by watching their children play and interact with each other; enjoying seeing the next generation begin forming what they were sure would be life-long bonds.
While they watched the kids play, Rangiku glanced over at Karin and Toshiro; a question on her mind. "So, what made you two choose Yue and Kenji? I know you, captain; you always have a thought-out reason for every decision you make." She said; a knowing smile on her face.
Toshiro smirked back as he heard Karin chuckle beside him; unable to disagree with his former lieutenant this time. "Yue was born during a full moon, so it seemed fitting at the time that we name her after it. Her name also means 'beautiful dream', and she was our beautiful dream come true; our first child. The name seemed like the right one to us. Besides, it fits well with her hair and eye color. As for Kenji, it means 'strong and vigorous, a wise second son'. He's definitely going to be a strong Shinigami one day, and he takes after Karin in terms of personality; so, he's got lots of energy and attitude. All three of our kids are highly intelligent and perceptive, but Kenji in particular seems to have a deeper understanding of things than his siblings. He's also the younger twin, so the name was a perfect fit. We chose it hoping he'd grow into it; and, so far, he has." he replied as he watched his children; pride evident in his eyes.
Glancing over at his wife, who smirked at him, and nodded her head, he looked back over at the kids as he spoke again; a smirk of his own on his face. "As for the next name, I'll tell you the meaning once we know whether it's a boy or a girl."
The Hisagi couple's heads snapped over to them, and Rangiku's face broke out into a huge smile; while Shuhei stared at them in shock. "Karin, you're pregnant?!" the 10th division captain asked excitedly as the raven-haired woman nodded her head. "Yeah, eight weeks. It wasn't planned, but of course we're happy about it."
Rangiku ran over to her adoptive sister-in-law, and gave her a big hug; while Shuhei walked over to Toshiro, and shook his hand. "Congratulations, Toshiro. That's awesome news." the 9th division lieutenant said; a broad smile adorning his face.
Toshiro gave a small smile in response. "Thank you, Shuhei." he replied, as his former lieutenant came over to him next, and smothered him in another big hug. "Oh, I can't wait to meet the new little one! I hope it looks just like you, Karin; you don't have a carbon-copy yet. Kenji's close, but not quite." she said; releasing her old captain, and looking at his wife.
Karin smirked back; her hands on her hips. "Yeah, I know. It would be cool to have every possible physical trait combo in the family, but we'll have to wait and see."
Hearing happy laughter and surprised shrieks, all of the adults turned their attention back to the five children nearby. All of the kids had now started playing with each other; the Hitsugaya clan currently trying to teach the other two how to play tag. They were running around everywhere; hollering, laughing, and having a great time. The sight made all the adults smile; Toshiro and Karin both making mental notes to make sure they planned regular visits from now on. They'd wanted to come before now, but it had been incredibly difficult to even just get out to the grocery store when the kids were younger. Life had been chaos, and their jobs were incredibly demanding. Karin had just recently managed to cut her schedule back to four days a week at the family clinic while her father took the other three days, but Toshiro was still at the dojo a minimum of five days a week, twelve hours a day, for classes; sometimes six or seven days a week when necessary. They'd hardly had time to think for several years; with the kids coming along, and the dojo business expanding beyond anything Toshiro and Tatsuki had anticipated. They now owned and operated five dojos across Japan, and had just recently started construction on three in the United States; one in Dallas, Texas; one in Jacksonville, Florida; and one in Boston, Massachusetts. Life had been crazy for the longest time, but once the twins and Yue were all old enough to operate by themselves to a certain degree, Karin and Toshiro had jumped on the opportunity to go to the Soul Society to see everyone again. They'd been lucky enough to have a slow period in both their schedules, and had booked the time off as soon as they could. They missed their old friends, and they wanted their kids to be able to meet everyone. Besides that, the kids were technically ¾ Shinigami; it was only right that they see where more than half of their family history came from.
The four adults enjoyed watching the kids play for a few more minutes before they decided it was time to get going. Walking over to the merry band of children, Toshiro crossed his arms over his chest; a slight smile on his face. "Alright everyone, time to get going. Come on." he said; gesturing for them to follow him back to the others.
The kids let out disgruntled moans, but filed up behind the former captain. The Hitsugaya children knew to listen when their father spoke, as they discovered early on that he was scary when he was pushed too far, angry, or frustrated. That didn't stop them from misbehaving, however, and they would still get sassy with him at various times; Kenji more than anyone else.
Yue was learning to mellow out a bit, and obey her parents more readily now that she was getting older. She definitely took more after her father in terms of temperament, but she had her mother's self-confidence, care and concern for both people and souls alike, and sarcastic tongue; which, she would be the first to admit, had gotten her into trouble more times than she could count. She tended to be pretty mellow, but was a ton of fun once you got her going on something she enjoyed, and was passionate about. Like her mother, she was a bit of a tomboy; preferring to spend her time either training, or on the soccer field rather than shopping with her Aunt Yuzu and cousin Amaterasu. While the beautiful little red-head loved all things girly and dainty, Yue much preferred to get her hands dirty outside.
She knew she possessed great instincts, which she inherited from her father, and used that to her advantage many times. She read people very well, and often used that ability to get her way; much to her parent's frustration. She seemed to be the one with the most equally-blended personality between both sides of the family, and she was a powerhouse-in-training, too; having achieved her Shikai last month. When it came to her Shinigami instruction, she trained mostly with her mother in Kido, but she was becoming a master swordsman under her father's guidance. She took after her cousin Kaien in that her zanpakuto's abilities were water-based; making fighting her father in training very difficult. They're abilities were so similar that she was forced to think of creative ways to utilize her Shikai, and work around her father's ability to control water for his ice-based attacks. It was a good learning experience for her, and it broadened her knowledge of her own abilities.
Jushiro, on the other hand, was exactly like his father in pretty much every respect. While not quite as wise and insightful as his twin brother, his intellect rivaled Toshiro's at the same age; easily being called a prodigy by his friends and teachers. He was consistently at the top of his class, and outperformed everyone else his age and older at school.
Where he excelled more than his siblings was in his Shinigami training; having achieved his Shikai last month alongside his sister, despite their two-year age difference. He proved to be incredibly naturally gifted, much like his father, and advanced rapidly through training. Given that his zanpakuto's abilities were ice-based as well, he trained almost solely under his father. His mother would help him with Kido at times, but Toshiro was his primary and regular instructor. He tended to be more serious, calm, and mature than his siblings, though he could be a brat when he wanted to. His scowl almost never left his face, and he didn't get excited about much of anything. While his sister and brother were sarcastic but kind to most people, he was blunt, cold, and standoff-ish. He was honest with people to the point of coming across as brutal and rude; something his parents were trying to correct, but so far not succeeding in. in many respects, his brother Kenji acted almost as a foil to him.
Kenji had the Kurosaki temperament, and the Hitsugaya intelligence; as well as his cousin Kaien's, and his mother's, love and care for people. He was rambunctious, loud, sarcastic, self-confident, stubborn, and obnoxious at times; but also wise beyond his years, incredibly discerning, and highly perceptive. His big mouth and lack of care for convention got him into trouble quite often, but he always rolled with the punches; managing to come out on top more often than not. He was a very powerful Shinigami, even at his young age of six; though, he was not as powerful as his twin brother. Much to his chagrin, he was the only one out of his siblings who hadn't achieved Shikai yet, though it was something that his mother, who was his primary and regular instructor, was helping him work on. What made his progress more difficult was that his zanpakuto spirit was just as stubborn and hard-headed as he was; making trying to communicate with it very difficult. Despite how frustrating it was, though, he was determined to achieve his Shikai within the year; so as not to fall too far behind his twin. He already knew that his zanpakuto was an elemental-type, like his siblings' and parents'; having accidentally set the kitchen on fire one day when his reiatsu flared because of a heated argument he'd gotten into with his sister. After that, his father had given him extensive lessons on controlling his reiatsu.
While Jushiro could be described as something of an ice prince, Kenji was more like a bull in a China shop, and Yue could be compared to the ocean; calm on the surface, with powerful and raging currents hidden below, ready to swallow you up if you made a wrong move. All three were very different, but their family shared a strong and unique bond; similar to the Kurosaki siblings' own bond with Isshin. They all loved and respected each other deeply.
Yue, especially, idolized her father, and was very much a daddy's girl. While she loved her mother dearly, and had a great relationship with her, her father was the person she almost always turned to for everything. Unless she was on the soccer field with her mother or friends, she was in the dojo with her dad; either helping teach the younger kids, or taking classes from him with the other students. Toshiro was softer and gentler with her than he was with the boys, but the two of them would still throw sarcastic remarks back and forth at each other; similar to how Karin and Toshiro usually communicated: full of affection and good humor. She saw her dad as her safe haven; her white knight. To her, he was strong, powerful, and unbeatable; but, also, the kindest and most loving man she knew. She hoped to meet and marry a man like him one day.
Jushiro had a stronger bond with Toshiro than Karin as well, but his mother was the only one who could ever make him laugh. He and Toshiro were so similar that they butted heads relatively frequently, making his relationship with his father run much more on respect than adoration; though, it was their similarities that also allowed them to bond so easily. They could relate to each other, and whenever Jushiro had problems, Toshiro was always the one he turned to for advice; knowing his father would be able to understand him, and help him through in a way that his mother simply couldn't. They were more than just father and son; they were best friends; something Jushiro greatly valued.
Kenji was a mama's boy through-and-through, being the most similar to Karin. Their fun and sarcastic personalities provided a lot of entertainment and liveliness around the house, and they were often the ones making everyone laugh. They were the heart of the family, and everyone would freely admit that; just as their grandmother Masaki had been the heart of her own family. Despite their Kurosaki temperament sparking occasional arguments between them, he was proud to call himself his mother's 'mini-me'; full of life and fight, just like her. He and his father had a good relationship, but; like Jushiro's unique relationship with their dad, his mom understood him in a way that Toshiro couldn't. He was also the favorite of their cousin Kazui; something he took pleasure in rubbing in his siblings' faces, much to their frustration.
Toshiro looked back over his shoulder to make sure the kids had listened to him, and were following him back to the other adults; pleased to see that they were indeed obeying him this time.
Returning Asami and Kaname to their parents, Toshiro and Karin rounded up their brood, and the band of Shinigami started making their way over to the 10th division barracks; passing several Shinigami who stopped to say hello to the former captain, and meet his family.
When they made it to the entrance of the 10th division, Toshiro looked around, curious; not finding one familiar face he had expected to see either at the senkaimon, or the barracks. "Hey Rangiku, where's Momo? I thought she'd be here." he asked; a puzzled expression on his face.
Rangiku's face adopted a confused look before lighting up with recognition, and then breaking out into a huge smile. Toshiro instantly knew he'd missed something important. "Oh, that's right; no one ever told you, captain. Momo's on maternity leave right now. She's only a couple days away from her due date, so she won't be back until after the baby's born."
A look of utter surprise came over both Karin's and Toshiro's face; Karin adopting a huge grin of her own. "Why the hell didn't anyone tell us that Momo was pregnant?!" she asked; excitement, but also irritation, in her eyes and voice; not pleased they'd been kept out of the loop about this important development. She and the pretty young lieutenant had become friends during her training in Soul Society, and had bonded more after her and Toshiro's wedding. Hinamori had been able to come for a few extended visits over the years, and she'd even come to see all the children when they were born. Karin had been especially grateful for her presence when the twins had arrived, as Momo had looked after Yue for a few days when Karin was released from the hospital. She and Toshiro had been very appreciative of the help, because they'd been able to get things sorted with the boys at home without having to worry about their young daughter.
Rangiku looked sheepishly back at them; slight guilt on her face. "Sorry; I meant to send a message, but I just got so busy, I-" she began before being cut off by her husband; a smirk on his face. "When she heard the news, she passed a lot of her paperwork off to her lieutenant, and went out for a celebratory drink. By the time she woke up at the bar the next morning, she'd forgotten all about telling you." he said; a humorous look on his face. "It only occurred to her yesterday that she never passed along the info."
"I thought you loved me, Shuhei?" Rangiku mumbled as she gave her smirking husband a disapproving frown; causing Karin and Toshiro to chuckle.
Walking up to his former lieutenant, Toshiro put a hand on her shoulder. "It's alright, Rangiku; we'll just have to make sure we visit her while we're here."
Karin nodded beside him; excitement in her eyes. "Yeah, hopefully the baby comes while we're here, so we can see the little tyke." she said, before a smirk made its way onto her face. "So, is Izuru excited, or is he scared half to death?"
Rangiku smirked in return; humor dancing in her eyes. "Both, I think; you should've seen him yesterday. Momo was having Braxton Hicks contractions, and he totally freaked out; thought the baby was coming, and completely panicked. He called me, but by the time I got there, she was fine again." she said; chuckling slightly.
Toshiro could sympathize with the father-to-be; remembering when that panicked mess was him eight years ago. Fatherhood was a scary but exciting prospect for any man, because you knew that you weren't just responsible for yourself and your wife anymore; now, you had a helpless, vulnerable human being that was relying on you to take care of it, raise it, and keep it safe. Looking over at Shuhei, he could see in the lieutenant's eyes that he shared his thoughts.
Suddenly, everyone was brought out of their conversation by a voice that sounded an awful lot like his father's. "Mom, Dad, are we going inside, or are you guys just gonna keep talking?" Jushiro asked beside his parents; his arms crossed over his chest, and a frown on his face.
While Rangiku started laughing at just how much of a carbon-copy the boy was to his father, the former 10th division captain and his wife weren't amused. Putting her hands on her hips, Karin looked down at her son with a disapproving frown, while Toshiro sighed in frustration beside her. "Jushiro, that was extremely rude. At least try to be polite while we're here, understand?" she said; an edge to her voice that the young boy recognized. That was his mother's 'This isn't up for debate; obey, or you'll regret it.' voice.
Sighing, the white-haired Shinigami nodded once in defeated understanding. "Yes, Mom."
Nodding once in response, Karin was glad he wasn't fighting her this time around. Turning back to the rest of the group, she looked over at her husband; taking his hand in hers. "So, ready to be reunited with your world?" she asked; affection in her eyes, and a smile on her face.
Toshiro gave her a small, affectionate smile back before leaning in, and giving her a quick peck on the lips. "Yeah, I'm ready. As much as I love our life, and wouldn't trade it for anything, it is good to be back. Come on, let's go." he replied as the group opened the doors to the barracks, and were greeted by the entire 10th division; plus Momo, Izuru, all the captains and lieutenants, Ichika, Nanao, and Head Captain Kyoraku.
Walking up to the former captain, Shunsui extended his hand out; a smile on his face. "Welcome back, Captain Hitsugaya. It's good to see you again."
Giving a small smile in return, Toshiro shook his superior's hand before motioning for his kids to step forward. "It's good to be back, Head Captain; let me introduce you to my family. This is Yue, Jushiro, and Kenji. Kids, this is the Head Captain of the Gotei 13, Shunsui Kyoraku."
Watching as the children bowed in greeting, Shunsui's smile grew larger. Giving the boys a pat on the head, and Yue a handshake, he looked back at the former captain. "Ukitake would be very proud of you…as am I." he said; watching as the young man's smile grew ever so slightly.
As Shunsui motioned for the family to come in, Momo waddled over to them; her face lighting up with excitement. "Shiro! It's so good to see you! It's been a few years. Look at you, you haven't changed a bit! Neither have you, Karin; you still look great!" she said; giving both Karin and Toshiro the best hug she could manage, given the size of her large belly.
Kenji and Yue ran up to her, and gave her a big hug; with Jushiro extending his hand out for a handshake. "It's good to see you again, Aunt Momo." the little white-haired boy said; the signature indifferent Hitsugaya frown adorning his face. His siblings released the lovely young lieutenant, and she walked over to the small boy; smirking down at him before glancing up at his father. "Are you sure he's not a clone, Toshiro? I feel like it's impossible for a kid to be so similar to his parent. There's gotta be at least a little bit of Karin in him?" she said good-naturedly; shaking the boy's hand, and ruffling his hair playfully; causing Jushiro's frown to deepen.
Toshiro smirked in reply; watching as his disgruntled son tried to fix his spiky white hair. "Believe me, it's possible. The only thing he inherited from the Kurosaki side is Isshin's natural affinity with Kido. He'll be more proficient in it than I am by the time he's a teenager." he replied; pride in his son evident on his face.
Momo chuckled, and stepped aside, as Shunsui motioned for them to go say hello to everyone; all the Shinigami lining up to welcome their old captain back formally.
As the Hitsugaya family made their way over to everyone, and greeted friends they hadn't seen in many years, a genuinely happy smile adorned Toshiro's face. After all these years, they were still his subordinates, his friends…his extended family.
Watching the love of his life joke and laugh with his former division and fellow captains, and seeing his kids play with Ikkaku, Yumichika, and a now grown-up Ichika, he found himself greatly looking forward to being back many more times; making memories with them in this world he cared for so deeply. Many sacrifices had needed to be made to get him and Karin to where they were now, and a lot had changed in the many years he'd been gone, but he wouldn't trade what he had now for anything.
Life is filled with constant change, but one thing remains the same…the bonds you form with those you hold dear.
And that's a wrap, everyone! I'm sad to see this story come to an end, but I think it turned out well, don't you? :P
I hope you all enjoyed Toshiro's and Karin's kids :-D They were fun to dream up, and write…especially little Jushiro X-D dWho doesn't love a mini-Toshiro, am I right? ;-) I wanted to give one of them a fire-type zanpakuto, since I really do think that's a fitting zanpakuto for the Kurosaki temperament, lol. So, I thought giving it to Kenji made sense.
Since there are hardly any (I think only one: Kaien's?) water-type zanpakuto in the Bleach universe, I thought it would be cool to show the family connection between Kaien and Karin by giving Yue a water-type zanpakuto. What did you guys think? Did you like the choices? And let me know what you thought about Rangiku's and Shuhei's kiddos! After everything Rangiku and Momo have been through, with love and loss, I felt like they both deserved a happy ending.
Alright all, I hope to see you back at my page for another HitsuKarin fic in the near future! I'm toying with the idea of writing an AU story for these two, but I have a few ideas…we'll see which one I land on!
Love you all, and thank you for your support!
EF-F
Links:
Karin's wedding outfit inspirational photos:
Dress: (Google: pinterest dot com, with /pin/600526931568974855/ attached to the end) - I absolutely love this dress :-D
Hair (scroll down to section 4 – photo 3 on website): Google: shinecoco dot com, with: /30-gorgeous-and-elegant-wedding-hairstyles-for-your-big-day/ attached to the end.
Bridesmaid dresses inspirational photos: (Sorry, I couldn't really find a photo for Orihime's)
Yuzu: (Google: lulus dot com, with: /products/natural-beauty-forest-green-lace-long-sleeve-maxi-dress/660042 dot html attached to the end)
Rukia: (Google: lisposa dot com, with: /de/products/hunter-green-velvet-gown attached to the end)
Rangiku: (Google: Plunge Neck Split Thigh Dress, and it should be the first image, under SHEIN)
Momo: (Google: dessy dot com, with: /dresses/bridesmaid/alfred-sung-style-d755/?pcid=28&source=instock attached to the end)
