Dragon Guests

by Writer's-411

Worn by illness, Juushiro is advised by his friend, Urahara, to embark on a trip to save his life. Taking the chance with Rukia, a woman indebted to Urahara for saving her life, Juushiro is able to find the magical lake that could heal anything. The trip takes a turn when two dragons burst out of the water and attack. Appealing to their nobility, Juushiro proposes a trade.

3. Dragon Custom

Dragon Guests: Dragon Custom

Warning: If you are sensitive to material regarding sexual assault in any way, please, don't read this. Your happiness and comfort are more important.

Throwing back his head with an opened mouth laugh, Grimmjow held on to the nearest tree. He bent over and held at his gut as a tear slid down his face.

"I fail to see the humor," stated Jushiro, a frown clear on his face, as he crossed his arms.

"Say that once more," requested Grimmjow. "Tell me again how a human princess claimed my brother as her own."

"Grimmjow," Jushiro said a little more sternly, "I ask that you hold yourself during this conversation." He watched as Grimmjow took in a deep breath and leaned against the tree, where he exhaled and nodded. "Like I said before, I told Rukia that Ichigo and this princess can't be together when he's already promised his affection to her. I'm concerned about her well-being." He sighed at the other's escaped bits of laughter.

Nodding again and gently pushing off the tree, Grimmjow embraced Jushiro, who eased himself in the other's arms. "My Jushiro," he said softly. "Ease your worries here. You and your friend have nothing to fear of this princess. It's not custom to take more than one partner as a dragon. My brother has already expressed his desire to court Rukia and has given her his only line of connection. My brother has no other partner."

At Grimmjow's answer, Jushiro felt relief wash over him. A part of him wanted to run out and tell Rukia that she had nothing to fear. However, the princess' claim still stirred up in the back of his mind. "Why would this princess lie? She gains nothing for it. What's the point?"

Grimmjow lifted Jushiro's chin and kissed him on the cheek, close to the corner of his mouth. "This princess must be confused," he replied. "Which princess is this? Many royals have come here and tried to connect with us with romantic trickery. A frivolous bunch, I'd say."

"Princess Orihime."

At the mention of her name, Grimmjow froze. He looked at his partner with, what Jushiro could see, concerned eyes that twitched with a sharp blue spark. "Orihime?"

Jushiro nodded. "Is something the matter?" he inquired. Jushiro touched at Grimmjow's arm and wondered again what the other was worried about.

"She's his soulmate," stated Grimmjow. He released Jushiro and sat down at the base of the nearest tree. He smoothed his hair from his face and grimaced harshly at the ground. Jushiro joined him, feeling a heavy weight in his chest: the princess didn't lie about being Ichigo's soulmate. "That little beast!"

"Grimmjow?"

The blue haired dragon man looked back at his partner. "No good can come from her," said Grimmjow. "She's already forced her feelings and herself on my brother before. Ichigo couldn't come from under the water for years because of her. He looked so lost… You said she's coming here, right?"

Jushiro nodded. He watched as Grimmjow's beautiful face contorted into expressions of rage and worry. "Grimmjow," he said, "I'm so sorry about what happened to your brother. I didn't know…"

Shaking his head, Grimmjow replied, "My brother and I banished her from these trees, from our home. She can't step foot past the first trunk." His hands curled into tight fists.

"And if she were to violate your ban?" Jushiro asked. He held on to Grimmjow's arm and rubbed small circles on his shoulder. "What would become of the princess?"

"As per custom," replied Grimmjow, "she'd be killed. Either I or my brother would do it."

Taking his hands back and touching at his ring, Jushiro also looked toward the ground. "I see," he said.

"A fate worse than the depths of hell," continued Grimmjow, "my brother would be in such pain. Had they remained ignorant of their connection, my brother wouldn't feel her death. However, the opposite is true. The idea of my brother experiencing agonizing pain over his soulmate's violent death for hundreds of years…it infuriates me."

Jushiro looked back at Grimmjow; the blue haired dragon man was clawing at his own skin now. Immediately, Jushiro grabbed Grimmjow's hand and guided his hand from clawing. As he did so, no words came to him as the dragon man's news concentrated itself in his head and in his gut. Pain. It wasn't something that he'd anticipated when finding he'd found his soulmate. He'd only felt pleasure in Grimmjow's presence and longing when he'd be up during the day. Jushiro wondered if pain was to be expected with his short life span.

Would my eventual death pain Grimmjow? wondered Jushiro.

"Can't something be done?" asked Jushiro, coming back from his brief thoughts. "Can she live even if she passes the tree?" Grimmjow shook his head. "Even to spare Ichigo?"

"Even if my brother and I turned a blind eye to her entrance," explained Grimmjow, "she'd die. Our ban isn't just verbal." He shook his head again and rubbed at his face. "A spell, one that can't be broken in any way, covers the forest. Animals and choice vegetation wouldn't hesitate to smite her."

"The princess is…she'll just die."

"Exactly."

"We have to stop her," proposed Jushiro. "We have to." He knelt in front of Grimmjow and took his face in his hands. "I've experienced pain that nearly took my life. I'd hate to see a higher pain inflicted on your brother…I'd hate to see it spread to Rukia, as well."

Grimmjow took Jushiro's hands in to his own and gazed in to Jushiro's shining eyes. "A heart of pure intention," commented the blue haired dragon man. He kissed his partner's hands, his lips hovering just above the other's skin. "Oh my. I think I've fallen in love."

Feeling whole didn't describe how Jushiro's entire being blazed with emotion. A smile spread on his face. He could see his own happiness reflect in Grimmjow's smile. The darkness couldn't cover the professed love radiating like a bright flame in his partner's eyes. Jushiro approached Grimmjow, their faces only an inch a part.

"It must be," whispered Jushiro. He glanced at Grimmjow's lips. "I feel as if the hottest fire has taken over me." Seeing the other glance down at his lips in return, Jushiro kissed Grimmjow. As he expressed himself through his lips, Jushiro embraced his lover and firmly grasped his lover's hair. Lost in Grimmjow's soft lips and warmth, Jushiro barely felt Grimmjow's strong arms suddenly wrap around his waist.

When Grimmjow finally broke away, he gasped for air. His cheeks were rosy, matching Jushiro's flushed face. From just a kiss, Jushiro could see his lover was more relaxed and focused on him, just as he was on Grimmjow. "My Jushiro," said Grimmjow. "You're so beautiful. Inside and outside." They embraced under the tree.

Like that, both remained in each other's arms until the sun rose to end it. Right before Jushiro faded from Grimmjow, he promised, "We'll save your brother and in turn, keep my dear friend safe."

IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

Ichigo took a step back at the mention of his soulmate. Rukia could see the confusion and, from what she could see, fear come over her partner's face. As she stepped forward, Rukia watched Ichigo stumble in place. "Rukia," he said, "I—I don't understand."

With a frown, Rukia pointed in the general direction of the village she stayed in and explained, "Beyond those trees by a day, your soulmate rests in a tent. She's intending to see you." She couldn't help but feel the warmth in her cheeks, squint at the blurring tears, and hiccup. "Princess O-Orihime. She intends to visit you, use your water, and marry you." She moved away from Ichigo's outstretched hand. "She told me you were engaged to her."

"Rukia."

"Is it true?"

"My Rukia."

"Is it true?" exclaimed Rukia again. She watched Ichigo frown sadly at her. She shook her head.

"I have no interest in the princess," answered Ichigo. He approached Rukia and embraced her.

At Ichigo's touch, Rukia returned the embrace, her entire body leaning in to the warmth of the other's body. Refusing to look up, Rukia said, "I saw the symbol. It was as clear as the silverware she dined on."

Drawing the other's gaze to him by her chin, Ichigo firmly answered, "Another god's mark means nothing to me. I promise you: I feel nothing for that princess. I want nothing to do with her." The tone in his voice struck Rukia to her very core. For a moment, it halted the shivering in her body. "My Rukia." He gently wiped away a tear. "I only have feelings for one person in this world, and that person is you. I apologize that such a thing has brought tears to your wondrous eyes. I'm sorry that I brought those tears."

Sucking at her lips and sniffling, Rukia held on tighter to Ichigo. "I—I," she stuttered, "believe you." She wiped at her face.

"What else did she tell you?" asked Ichigo. He guided Rukia to sit next to him on the ground. As he listened to her retell the day from morning to night, not excluding her occupation as a Royal Knight and her jealousy and rage, Ichigo rubbed soothing circles on Rukia's back. "Such claims… She makes them in vain. She shouldn't expect such things at all. She's undeserving of such affections! I shall not forgive her!"

Rukia took Ichigo's hand upon seeing him glare off in the distance, his eyes tinting a blinding gold. His hand was shaking, his palm hotter than the summer sun. "I know she's not such a charming person," said Rukia, "but you're burning. Your eyes, Ichigo, appear ablaze with fire when you talk about her. What did she do to make you despise her so?"

With a grunt, Ichigo rubbed at his eyes and looked up at the sky. "My Rukia," he answered, "that woman has wronged me in such a way that I-I can't stand the thought of even uttering her name." He brought his gaze to a particular spot by the lake and pointed at the water's edge. "There, she and I realized we were soulmates. I was ambivalent about it all, especially since she'd pursued me since the first hour of her arrival. She was full of happiness, but I saw a dark heart in her breast. There was nothing loving in her eyes and in the manner of her smile. She ignored the well-being of her companions in favor of giving her attention to me... She proposed that same night. I rejected her."

Rukia squeezed his hand as she saw his jaw twitch and his lips purse. "I'm here with you," she reassured. "You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to."

With a shake of his head, Ichigo slouched in his place, further shrinking in to, what Rukia could make out, a ball shape. "I will share with you my pain," said Ichigo. His eyes were now glossed. "When she looked down at her hand, it was as if watching a spoiled snake admire its own scales. I wasn't in her eyes; it was all eerie. One evening, I decided to rest under a tree. My brother was there napping by my side, but he'd risen to fly over the forest and hunt for our meal. I was brought from my own sleep when I felt a pressure on my body."

Seeing Ichigo's face becoming red and his gaze dipping toward the ground, Rukia could barely make out the drops of tears that spilt from his tightly shut eyes. "Ichigo," she said.

"No matter the pain," whispered Ichigo. "I must tell it. I must! If you don't hear it, then the pain will stay here with me forever. I can't carry it here anymore." He looked at the lake water and took a deep breath. "S-She-She was—Gah!" Ichigo grit his teeth. "Dragon custom doesn't allow for such things, not on the first day of meeting…" He squeezed Rukia's hand back. "S-She was touching me, and she kept telling me how divine our offspring would be as a godly king. She had the gall to try to kiss me and tell me that she belonged to me and me to her. T-That our feelings were meant to be shared. Only when she tried to mount me did I move away, out of my frozen state and out of her arms… In the end, I kept asking myself how I didn't realize she was touching me while I slept. I-I..."

Rukia didn't let go of her partner's hand. "It wasn't your fault," she said. Ichigo looked at her; tears were gliding down his face. "You're not a fault, Ichigo. You never were." She slowly wiped away the tears from her partner's face. "You're so strong, Ichigo. So strong. I will always be here when you feel otherwise."

"M-My Rukia," said Ichigo. He embraced her. As they remained in each other's arms, Rukia bashed away all feelings of anger and spite toward the princess. She wanted to remain a stronghold for Ichigo. As she remained still, Ichigo's tears soaked her shoulder; they were warm. She stayed this way until Ichigo's shivering ceased and his breathing evened.

"So you're a knight," Ichigo said as he slowly pulled away.

"Indeed, I am," replied Rukia as she watched her partner wipe away his last tear and look back at her with red and glossy eyes. She brought forth her sword and revealed the symbol at the end of the hilt. "I am a Royal Knight under King Genryusai." She gave a small smile.

Ichigo smiled, but the smile fell. "Ichigo?"

"She needs to be stopped," requested Ichigo. "My Rukia, I must be honest once more. If that fiend enters this forest, she will die. There is a spell around here that upholds a ban that my brother cast upon her. If she enters, everything in the forest will not hesitate to kill her."

Frowning, Rukia looked at the forest. "She's your soulmate, Ichigo," she said. "If she dies, you…" She glanced back at him. "You'll suffer."

"It's not a matter of my own suffering I worry about," replied Ichigo. "It's the matter of knowing that her putrid soul will come to find me again when it has a mature body." Rukia watched as the dragon man cradled his face in his hands. This vulnerability surrounded them both. Rukia never thought a dragon could be brought to their knees, especially not the way Orihime brought Ichigo down past the mud. It couldn't happen again. She pursed her lips; Rukia would protect Ichigo this time.

Swiftly drawing her sword, Rukia placed it down and bowed completely as if she were bowing to her king. This, Rukia knew, was a bow reserved only for the king himself. She could only think of how Ichigo deserved better and deserved to feel safe as she pressed her forehead to the cold ground. "Ichigo," she vowed, "with this blade, I will guard your body and your heart from those who seek to destroy them. Consider me, Ichigo the gold, your sword and your shield. When you are in need of me, you need only to send a word, and I will come to your side. From this point until defeat is evident, your enemies are my own."

"Rukia," started Ichigo, protest evident in his voice.

Shaking her head, Rukia rose to her feet and sheathed her sword. "It is my duty to protect those within the king's realm," she explained, "but, as someone who cares about your wellbeing and your happiness, it is my duty to smite those who think you deserve otherwise." She gave her hand to Ichigo, who took it. "I will do all I can to stop the princess from coming here."

"My Rukia."

IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

When Jushiro rose from his bed, he caught sight of Rukia polishing her blade as she sat on the room's only chair. "How long have you been awake?" he asked her through his yawn.

"I've been awake for a couple of hours now," replied Rukia as she continued to polish her blade. From where he sat, Jushiro could see just how magnificent her sword was, but he could also see its sharp edge matching Rukia's eyes. "Jushiro, I must ask that you continue on home without me." She finally sheathed her sword.

"What do you mean?"

"There is a task that I must complete," answered Rukia as she rose from her chair. "If I don't complete it, then Ichigo will suffer."

"He told you, didn't he?" said Jushiro. He rose from bed and slipped on his boots. "Grimmjow told me, as well. However, I am curious as to why you wish to go on alone."

Rukia shook her head. "I've kept you here selfishly another night," replied Rukia. "If I take you with me, Jushiro, I fear that it'd be even more selfish and dangerous."

"You're going to stop her, aren't you?" guessed Jushiro.

"I must."

Jushiro shook his head and replied, "I made a promise to Grimmjow that I'd help prevent the princess from going in to the forest. If you're going, I'm going."

"This matter could turn bloody," said Rukia. "I can take the pain, and I'd rather not risk your safety." She sheathed her sword with a crisp click. "If you got hurt, I don't know how I'd face Urahara or your soulmate."

"Rukia."

"I can't risk your life."
"I can't let you go alone."

"You wouldn't be spared."

"Would the princess slice at me with a sword?" asked Jushiro. "Would her knight come for me? I don't see this. The princess has to be reasonable in some way."

"She isn't," said Rukia, "and that's the problem. This princess supported her father's wishes to overthrow the king. She's been sent to advertise a new ruling on behalf of her father and has challenged the authority of other Royal Knights, including the first rank Rangiku Matsumoto and second rank Uryuu Ishida. She's also wronged a person I care about, and that in itself is enough reason to raise my sword. If she decided to challenge me with you at my side, you risk death."

With a soft frown, Jushiro approached his friend and said, "Rukia, I care about you, and I understand your feelings. However, I can't let you go alone. I refuse to be sent home. I may not know how to fight like a Royal Knight, but I can tell you that I can't stand idly by and do nothing." He crossed his arms and stood as tall as possible. "Never have I felt so close to another being before you and Grimmjow. Allow me to stand alongside you in this act of bravery and righteousness."

Looking up at her friend, Rukia gave a small smile. "You're such a strong person," she said. She held off for a moment, resistance laced in her brow. She rubbed at her face and looked about, appearing to be at odds with the consideration. Her face fell into defeat. "How could I refuse you?" She reached into her bag and pulled out two masks; she handed one to Jushiro, who looked it over in awe. The mask, Jushiro recalled, was only worn by a Royal Knight if the knight were going in to battle. The mask would cover half of the face and replicate the terrifying maw of a dragon. Stories have been told that armies have fled from just the sight of the Royal Knights in their masks.

"Am I really allowed to wear this?" asked Jushiro as he watched Rukia put her mask on.

"If you are to ride alongside me," explained Rukia, "then all must know that you are also riding on behalf of the king and as my partner in battle. Today, you are a Royal Knight." She stepped forward and helped Jushiro put on his mask. "Come, we have to catch up to the princess if we're to stop her."

"She's gone from the village already?"

"And she's not going to stop," added Rukia. "When we catch up, our intentions will be known from the start. If any soldier raises a sword at you, I will cut them down." From her tone, Jushiro believed her.

From there, both packed and retrieved their horses from the stable. The set off in the direction they journeyed from. Jushiro witnessed random travelers step aside for them to pass through on the road; he even glimpsed them falling to their knees to bow down. A sliver of pride welled in his chest. This must be it. This must be the honor of a Royal Knight.

IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

Just as the sun was setting, Jushiro caught sight of the princess' caravan and the familiar trees. The carriage was being followed by a large wagon that was coated by a large tarp. Squinting, Jushiro was able to make out the caravan's halt.

What are they doing? wondered Jushiro.

"Prepare to engage," yelled out Rukia to him.

Are we to go in to direct battle? thought Jushiro as he clutched the horse's reigns.

Within minutes, both Jushiro and Rukia slowed their horses as they came to a stop in front of a wall of soldiers. Rukia pulled her horse before Jushiro as she laid her hand on her sword. Hesitation and even awe was evident among the rattling soldiers. Gerard Valkyrie came to the forefront and laid his own hand on his sword.

"Royal Knight Kuchiki," called out Gerard, "what reason do you have in coming here with intentions of conflict?"

Looking down upon him without dipping her chin, Rukia answered, "I have come here to warn you, and if you fail to heed my warning, then I shall show you your error at the draw of my sword."

Jushiro pushed away strands of hair blowing in his face from the frosted wind. To Jushiro, the frost must've frozen them all still, as only wisps of breath came from the soldiers and Valkyrie.

Gerard grunted and requested, "Come on, let's hear what you have to say."

Rukia shook her head. "I came here to warn the princess."

"The princess remains in the carriage," said Gerard sternly.

"You leave me no choice," said Rukia. "I, Royal Knight Kuchiki, command that the princess step out of her carriage. If she declines the order, she declines an order of the king." Her voice boomed, making some soldiers take a step back.

Within a second, the carriage door was flung open and the princess stepped out. She held her head high as she strode forward in a white gown and gold jewelry, one of which was a decadent crown on top of her head. Jushiro could clearly see she was dressed as a bride; he glanced at Rukia, catching only the consistent gaze one would expect from a warrior of her status.

"I have stepped out on order of the king," said Orihime as she bowed in Rukia's direction. "For what reason does the king ask I be stopped in the midst of my journey? I don't go in hopes of stressing his majesty." She smiled.

"Jushiro," said Rukia, "warn her of what is to come."

Brining his horse forward, Jushiro cautioned, "Princess, you are aware of the dragons' existence within the forest. You've told us that you are on good terms with them, but we come with news that otherwise is true." He could see that the princess wasn't looking at him. Even in this moment, she wouldn't spare a glance in his direction. Before he could continue, Rukia cut in.

"Princess," said Rukia, "address Jushiro. As of today, he holds status as a Royal Knight by my side. He only comes to keep you safe."

With a twitching eye, Orihime turned her attention to Jushiro. Doing his best to keep his head high, Jushiro continued, "You are in danger. If you pass the first tree, you forfeit your life. There is a spell that prevents your existence within the forest. We ask that you turn around and go back home, utilize your own doctor's medicines, and live on as you are."

At Jushiro's warning, Orihime only frowned. "You came to tell me lies?" she accused.

"They're not lies," Jushiro quickly replied. "They are facts."

"Then, what proof do you have?" asked Orihime, snide heavily laced in her tone. "No farmer or temporary knight could possibly know anything of a royal. You're a poor bluff."

Heat rising in his face and pressure surrounding his mind, Jushiro brought up his hand. "Look, princess," commanded Jushiro. "Lay your gaze upon my palm. It is the mark of the gods, one like you have. This mark was revealed in my flesh when I realized that I was soulmate to Grimmjow the blue, Ichigo the gold's brother. Grimmjow informed me of your doom if you were to disobey his ban, a ban you know well exists."

Jushiro watched Orihime sneer. "Lies, still," claimed the princess. "No dragon from the heavens would be soulmates with a being not of noble descent. Wash your hands farmer."

"What he says is true," said Rukia. "I was also given the same information regarding the ban. I was given such information from Ichigo the gold himself."

"There is no way that'd happen!" exclaimed the princess. "You lie, as well, Royal Knight."

"My lady," cut in Gerard, "please, do not insult the Royal Knight. To do so is to insult the king."

"Shut your mouth," seethed Orihime. She turned her sight back on Jushiro and Rukia. "I am soulmate to Ichigo the gold. I am destined to have him by my side. I am destined to have a king of divine descent. King Genryusai wouldn't compare in status to me or my children."

Jushiro didn't feel fear. He didn't feel anger. He watched as the princess' secure demeanor crackle and morph in to a heated monologue, the ranting becoming louder and raspier. With a frown, Jushiro shook his head.

"We didn't come here to argue about what you wish for!" spat Rukia. "We came here to help you choose life. What does the princess choose?"

"My ascent to queen!" bit Orihime.

Jushiro's eyes widened. His attention immediately went to Rukia, who dismounted her horse and drew her sword. "Rukia…" His friend didn't look to him.

"Jushiro," said Rukia, "please, don't interfere." She stepped forward, triggering the sudden rush of soldiers to shield their princess. "To fulfill my oath, you shall not pass through the forest. If you wish to pass those trees, you must kill me first." She held up her sword, ready to battle.

Gerard set himself between his soldiers and Rukia. He drew his blade. "Princess," he said, "allow me to step in." He brought up his sword to oppose Rukia's blade, slowly bringing himself toward her. Gerard made eye contact with Rukia, who made no move at his closing proximity. "Is it true, Royal Knight? Is it true she'd die if we went past the trees?"

"As per my oath," replied Rukia, "I don't lie."

A Royal Knight never does, thought Jushiro. He held his breath at the first touch of the knights' swords. His hands tightened around the horse's reigns as he watched the two remain still.

"Then, I fight for her death," stated Gerard. He pushed away from Rukia and planted himself near his soldiers. He held up his blade horizontally and took a moment to stare at the blade as it shined in the frosted air. "My princess, I cannot fight a battle that would mean your death if I were to be the victor." Slowly, the blade fell from Gerard's hand and landed on the ground, a heavy thud finalizing its descent.

Pushing her way to the front of the wall of the soldiers, the princess yelled, "If you're too weak to take down one person, then I'll do it! Soldiers, orders are to cut down the Royal Knights and arrest Valkyrie for failure to represent me in a duel!"

Making no motion or show of reaction, Valkyrie crossed his wrists and watched his soldiers place heavy cuffs on him. The soldiers took him aside. The rest drew swords, save a few who drew their bows, which were aimed at Jushiro.

"R-Rukia," stuttered Jushiro. He glanced her way, seeing that she was completely focused, her eyes peacefully glaring at all those aiming for her. His attention was brought back to the archers. Utter vulnerability settled in as Jushiro felt naked in front of the array of arrows. He knew that Rukia could take them all down, but Rukia had more swords to deal with than he did. Jushiro figured if Rukia held her head high in a time like this, then he should do the same. He held his head high. Rukia had stared down death in her first match with Ichigo. Thoughts of Grimmjow came to mind as he raised his chin even higher.

The archers stepped forward. Their bowstrings pulled back and body aimed just like their arrows. Their armor had a dull glow that didn't compare to Grimmjow's scales. They didn't compare to Jushiro's partner at all.

"I've stared death in the face before," Jushiro said to the archers. "Your arrows don't compare to the teeth I've seen my own reflection in." He observed the archers' eyes, all narrowed.

The bowstrings groaned as the archers pulled them back further. Just as the archers prepared to release their arrows and as the foot soldiers took their first steps, a series of roars shook them from their primary targets. Jushiro pulled tight on the reigns and balanced himself on his unsettled horse, which reared and backed away from the source of the sounds, the trees. Rukia was at his side within seconds and grabbing hold of the reigns to bring the horse down.

"Rukia," repeated Jushiro. "I—Are you okay?"

"I should be asking you that," replied Rukia.

"It's him!" came the princess' voice.

Jushiro and Rukia looked to the princess, who was gazing out toward the trees. The foot soldiers made a protective circle around her, while the archers kept their arrows pointed at Jushiro and Rukia. The princess yelled out Ichigo's name and even pressed against her soldiers to get closer to the trees. As the princess screamed Ichigo's name again, two figures emerged from the trees, their sparkling hair waving gently along with the breeze. Ichigo was positioned just behind Grimmjow.

"Grimmjow," said Jushiro under his breath as he stared at his blue haired partner. At that moment, he felt as if Grimmjow was staring back at him, a feeling that brought a smile to Jushiro's face.

Both dragon men wasted no time in coming closer, closing in on the entire caravan and the knights within seconds. Just like before, Grimmjow stood in front of Ichigo, who glared at the soldiers. Ichigo suddenly appeared next to Rukia and touched gently at her cheek.

"My Rukia," said Ichigo.

After giving a brief smile, Rukia wasted no time in putting herself between the soldiers, the princess, and Ichigo. She raised her sword again. This time, she was protecting two people. Although the soldiers were standing and staring right at Jushiro, Rukia, and Ichigo, their stares didn't match the grimace that laced the princess' face.

"You were warned to stay away," growled Grimmjow. "No person of impurity may re-enter our forest. Your ban is proof of that." Seeing that the princess wasn't paying him mind, the blue haired man moved in her line of vision next to Jushiro. "You threaten people my brother and I care about. We are merciful and will offer you to leave and never return."

The princess made no move to answer Grimmjow.

"How dare you," growled Ichigo. He made brief eye contact with Orihime. "How dare you!" The princess appeared shocked at his raised voice. Rukia put her hand on Ichigo's shoulder.

"Get your hands off him!" yelled the princess. "He's mine! We're meant to be together! We will have a divine family that will supersede the king himself!"

"That's just it!" argued Ichigo. Anger was etched in to his furrowed brow and bared teeth. His eyes glowed. "You're selfish and dark hearted!" Jushiro dismounted his horse and stood next to Grimmjow, who was watching Orihime with eyes that were dark and narrowed in on her. "Your only interest was in my divinity, and I saw it. You knew I wanted nothing to do with you, so you forced yourself on me. There's no love between us." Grimmjow moved toward Ichigo and held his hand as he kept his sight on Orihime.

"But we're soulmates!" protested the princess. "You can't disobey the gods! You belong to me!"

"No," replied Ichigo. "My brother and I are known to be at odds with the beings who roam the heavens. As descendants of the dragon goddess, my brother and I are also gods." He held up his and his brother's hands. "I will not be bound to you anymore."

The soldier stood still against their princess' movements, and the archers quickly moved closer to their princess in order to aim their arrows at the dragon men. Valkyrie still stood aside, remaining silent as he watched. Jushiro and Rukia stood side by side.

The frosted air stilled.

Eyes glowing and power pulsing visibility all around Grimmjow and Ichigo, the two dragons' combined hands glowed. "As a god," said Ichigo, "I command that my soul be bound to Rukia's."

"No!" screamed Orihime.

Rukia felt herself freeze at this, and she held on to Jushiro's arm. Supporting her, Jushiro held on to Rukia and watched the dragons continue to face off with the screaming princess, who was trying to push apart her soldiers.

"As gods," continued Grimmjow, "it is our right to command such power. I command that Ichigo's soul be bound to Rukia's."

At the last of Grimmjow's words, Ichigo, Rukia, and Orihime dropped to their knees. Ichigo was curled in to himself and growling as he held at his chest; Grimmjow didn't let go of his brother's hand. Orihime was screaming out; her soldiers were holding on to her and yelling at one another to help somehow. Jushiro held tight to Rukia as she clawed at her chest; she pressed her forehead against Jushiro's chest, grunts and whines escaping from her mask.

"Rukia," said Jushiro as he sat down with her, letting her lean against him. Patiently, he comforted her while he watched her come down from her pain. "Rukia?"

"I-I think," replied Rukia, "my soul.." She trailed off and brought up her hand. "Am I his…" A symbol burned bright in to the palm of her hand. "I'm his soulmate."

Touching at Rukia's hand, Jushiro smiled. "There it is," he observed. "You're one of a million."

IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

Yawning and stretching, Rukia hummed her content up to the ceiling of the cave. Her clothes were wrinkled and pulled in different places. She turned her gaze from the ceiling to Ichigo, who was still asleep. Ichigo's hair was draped over his shoulders and stretched out over his chest and back. Seeing his shining beauty and peace, not a wrinkle in place, Rukia felt a warmth enter her chest and radiate throughout her body. She smiled.

Rukia turned and placed her hand on the furs beneath her. Smiling, she gazed at her partner's face. She watched his lips curl slowly into a smile. With this feeling, Rukia wondered if this was what Jushiro felt when he met Grimmjow. She asked herself if this feeling is what helped keep Jushiro so strong in the face of danger. Thinking of her dear friend, Rukia smiled. The gratitude that overwhelmed her at the moment had to be expressed. She'd see Jushiro later; she needed him to know that he was one of the most amazing friends she'd ever had because he'd helped her with Ichigo.

"You're watching me," Ichigo suddenly whispered.

Feeling her face warm, Rukia sucked her lips. "Your eyes are closed."

Ichigo chuckled. "I don't need my sight to see someone so beautiful laying by my side," he said. After opening his eyes, Ichigo laid his hand on Rukia's. "After all, you rival the moon's radiance. According to dragon custom, you're more precious than jewels if your soul is more beautiful than the moon."

As she stared in to the golden-brown mirrors of his eyes, Rukia felt an intense rush overcome her. "I have this warm feeling in my chest," she said. "And when I look at you…your eyes just…I'm without words."

Gently brushing aside a lock of Rukia's hair, Ichigo replied, "I, too, can't describe this feeling." His teeth gleamed as he smiled at her. "This is the feeling, my Rukia, that I wished to have with you."

"I wished for this feeling, too," replied Rukia.

"My Rukia," said Ichigo as he embraced her. "Let us spend the rest of our lives together. You continue on as the bravest knight, and I will support you." He kissed the top of her head. "To say that I'm in love with you would be an understatement. My heart bursts for you in a way that'd shake the heavens and rock the gods from their silken cushions."

Wrapping her arms around Ichigo's waist, Rukia buried her face in her partner's chest. "Ichigo, your words," she said. A twist occurred in her gut. "You shower me with such praise, but you're the brave one here." She looked up at Ichigo. "You summoned such courage to face the one who made you feel terrible. I think it's more than fair to say you're more radiant than the sun."

For a moment, Rukia thought Ichigo smiled through his eyes as he gazed at her. "My Rukia," he said. He kissed her. The warmth spread from Rukia's lips to her cheeks and beyond. He broke away, leaving Rukia blushing madly. "And so the dragon fell in love with the knight." They met in a kiss again, kissing away the time and cool of the cave.

IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

Juhsiro and Grimmjow lounged on the pile of furs in the dragons' cave. Grimmjow was napping, his head on Jushiro's chest. As the dragon man slept peacefully, Jushiro combed through his hair, being careful not to tangle the shining stands. Only a few days before, he'd been holding his dear friend as she was in pain. After the ordeal, the princess had passed out from the pain, so her soldiers took her home in her carriage with Valkyrie back at the helm of the caravan. Ichigo had been relieved; he'd taken Rukia home to the cave, where they'd laughed and cried loud enough to keep Jushiro a bit worried throughout that night.

At the moment, Jushiro thought about the whole ordeal with Orihime. He thought about his vulnerability at the point of the archer's arrows and his lack of fighting skill to aid Rukia. Coupled with thoughts of Grimmjow in pain at his death in the future, Jushiro asked the cave ceiling if it was possible to keep Grimmjow free of all pain and to aid his friend as an equal warrior of some kind. Jushiro sighed, his lips pursed as he frowned.

"If you continue to worry," came Grimmjow's sleepy voice, "you will always be tired." He raised his head and smiled at Jushiro, who smiled back.

"I am not worried," Jushiro replied. He gently touched at Grimmjow's face. "I'm just thinking."

"What do you think of at this hour?"

"It's only midday."

"That's quite early for me."

Chuckling, Jushiro explained, "I'm thinking about you. I'm thinking about Rukia."

"So you're worrying?"

Jushiro shook his head.

Sitting up, Grimmjow looked down at Jushiro, tilting his head as he studied his partner's eyes. Jushiro could see the inquiry in the other's gaze. "You expect me to believe that you're not full of worry?" stated Grimmjow. He touched at his partner's cheek. "One so beautiful doesn't make such a face out of carefree wonder. What has you asking questions?"

Shaking his head again, Jushiro wrapped his fingers around Grimmjow's hand. "My love," he answered, "I was just thinking about keeping you free of pain and being able to support Rukia."

"Keep me free of pain?"

"When Ichigo was still soulmates with the princess, her death meant pain for him," elaborated Jushiro. "When I die, you'd be in pain." He clutched Grimmjow's hand. "I fear the impending pain that I'd cause you."

Grimmjow pressed his forehead against Jushiro's. "My dear Jushiro," whispered Grimmjow. His deep voice soothed Jushiro. "You worry so much. Your death wouldn't come to fruition."

"What do you mean?"

"I am a dragon," answered Grimmjow. "Dragon custom decrees that our lifespans match in length. I'm immortal. You and I have eternity to love each other… As for your friend, you did all you could to support her. Your strength will allow you to support her in the future."

"Grimmjow."

"My Jushiro," said Grimmjow as he raised his head. "You love so hard, and your love is so rare. Rukia, I—no, this world is blessed with your walking the earth, giving love to all who open themselves to you. Though, I think I am the luckiest of all to have you in my arms."

Grimmjow's words surrounded Jushiro's mind. With tears in his eyes, Jushiro replied, "Then, I shall love you the hardest."

End

Writer's Rambles

Hey all,

Here is the last chapter to this fic. I hope you enjoyed it. I know that I enjoyed writing it.

Big thanks to the following people for reviewing: Gui1313and Kgvision. I would also like to thank the guests that gave positive reviews, as well. Hopefully, I'll see you in the next one shot I have coming up.

Thanks,

W