Author's note:
Hi everyone! It's been a while, but I'm back with another chapter. First of all, my apologies for not uploading last month. Life's been pretty hectic, but I'm back with not one but two chapters! So excited to share this with you all.
For now, enjoy!
A month before the big Kuchiki celebration, Ichigo was summoned by his parents for an important meeting, and right now, the orange head was standing in front of his father's study. He had absolutely no idea what it was about. Just like always, he entered the room without knocking and was pleasantly surprised when he saw his two younger sisters sitting together with his mom. "Yuzu, Karin, mom? Aren't you guys supposed to have tea? I thought dad just wanted to see me?" Ichigo said while taking a seat across his father's desk. "Good morning to you too, Ichigo." His mother replied, while Karin gave him her usual grumpy glare. Yuzu pouted as she said, "Onii-chan, aren't you happy to see me? It feels like ages since you have hung out with me and Karin-chan." The way Ichigo's sisters reacted made him chuckle. He loved it when he saw his sisters and especially see their lively reactions to his usual cold words. "Yes, yes. I'm thrilled to see you, Yuzu. You know that you can stop by my room anytime, right? It's a two-way street, just so you know." Karin laughed at her brother's words while Yuzu crossed her arms over each other, her pout returning once again, mumbling. "Karin says I can't just come and visit. She says that if I visit unexpectedly, I might find you engaging in d-dirty and s-shady business." Ichigo's eyes widened as his face turned red, slamming his fist on the table. "W-What are you talking about?!" The reaction of their older brother turned out to be more amusing than Karin had ever thought, causing her to chuckle. Replying to Ichigo in a teasing tone. "You're a young adult now, who knows what we might find you doing if we visit without announcement. I have to protect our innocence." Ichigo deadpanned at Karin's words, growling, "You're saying that already shows that you're not that innocent."
Kurosaki Masaki suddenly burst out in laughter. She had watched her children interact the entire time, and it made her feel at ease. Lately, both Ichigo and Isshin had been so tense, but seeing her children tease and joke together made her remember the old times. The times her children were young and were just busy being children instead of worrying about the calling that rested upon their shoulders. Masaki's laugh caught her children off guard, and all three simply watched their sun brightening up. This caused Yuzu, Karin and Ichigo to smile and hug their mom. "Such a lovely sight. I'm making a brain picture of this to keep forever." Isshin was standing in the doorway, his fingers positioned as if it was holding a frame. Ichigo immediately returned to his seat, the girls leaving their mother's embrace. The orange top cleared his throat, addressing his father. "So dad, let's get to it. Why did you call us all here? I'm sure it wasn't for just a family moment."
Isshin chuckled and loved the straight forwardness of his son. "Goat-chan, Ichi-nii, is right. I have other things to attend as well. Would be nice if you hurry a bit." Karin added. She loved her dad, but she also knew that he could take forever, and she really wanted to visit the soccer game and root for their kingdom's first match of the season. "Now it's even coming from my lovely daughter, I feel so attacked." Isshin said dramatically, his face saddening as he took his seat. "We're not to attack you Oto-san, you just know how these two are." Yuzu added. "That's correct my smart daughter. Yuzu, what would I do without you?" Isshin once again teared up. Ichigo's eye started twitching, his fist ending once again on the table. "Old man, now please."
The Kurosaki dad returned to his normal composure and nodded. "Alright. I called you together because I have something to announce. Your mother and I will visit Unohana for a week. They have suffered the past few months many losses, and your mother and I want to discuss how we can support Unohana and her people as much as possible." Ichigo turned pale at the mention of Unohana's name. He still felt guilty about his past relationship being partially the cause that they had so many losses. "Dad, if there's anything I can do..." Isshin immediately interrupted his son. "Son, I know you feel guilty and want to help, but for now, your mother and I really need to go without you. However, there is another way you can help me. During my trip, I want you to be the one that is looking over the palace. My ministers will take responsibility for the kingdom, but I just want you to make sure the palace is safe. Can you do that for me? Keeping your sisters safe." Ichigo's head was now faced towards the ground, but slowly his eyes shifted from the ground to his sisters. Feeling guilty was indeed something that would not help in this situation, and going to Unohana's without her consent definitely wasn't a good idea. Keeping his sisters safe sounded like a much more fitting thing to do. "Alright dad. You can trust me."
"Thanks Ichigo." Isshin's dark eyes met his son's dark brown ones, nodding contently. "I'm counting on you."
A few days later, Isshin and Masaki left to visit Unohana, who was presiding as a head over the eastern part of the country. That same night, Ichigo was doing his last round through the castle before going to bed. Usually, he would avoid going to his father's study if he was not present, but for some reason he felt an urge to take a seat into his father's chair. When Ichigo was a little boy, he would always sit in his father's chair and act like he was the king. Now he wasn't going to do that, but he did wish his father would share his burden with him as well. All those nights being locked up in his study to study battle plans, new laws for the kingdom and more. Ichigo entered his father's study and took a seat in his big chair that was located in the middle of the study behind his old wooden desk. The desk was tidy and clean, just like his father liked it. Ichigo's eyes roamed through the study, reminiscing the times he came here as a little child. Just like in his memories, Ichigo tried to open his father's drawers, but all were closed except one. The drawer on the left side of the desk was still opened and to Ichigo's surprise it contained a green folder with written on it: the chronicles of the future.
The male cocked a brow and chuckled at the sight of the title. What kind of title is that? Was his old man planning to write a novel or something? He wasn't going to peek inside the file until a white envelope fell out of the folder when he picked it up to take a closer look. Gold letters on it that said: to the Kurosaki's. He couldn't contain his curiosity and opened the envelope, his eyes widening as he read the invitation to Rukia's appointment. Why didn't his old man tell him about this? After reading the invitation, Ichigo went through the file and read the following report:
To Zanges 01
I've been doing business with family K for 3 years now and have been observing what they are planning. Just as I feared, they are making advances in Unohana's territory. Besides making advances, it seems that they are taking women of the villages as prisoners. Reason: unknown. For now, I know they are busy introducing a new project. It has to do with creating the perfect warrior. I'm not sure what and how, but I know that your family is probably in great danger. Family K is planning something, and I'm fearing for your safety. Miss Sode no Shirayuki suddenly has been appointed as the new heir. This might mean that family K has already made their next move. It seems they have something grand in store, but exact details remain unknown. Creating superior warriors should not be an immediate threat to you, but I still worry about you and your family. For now, I'll try to find more information about the women and the prisons they have build. What the purpose is for. In the meantime, I trust you will fix everything with Unohana and make sure that son of yours stays away from family K! He's quite unpredictable, so I'm trusting you to keep him in line. If not, what knows might happen? His previous relationship makes me uneasy, especially because of the appointment right after the breakup. Could this mean she has anything on your strawberry? Maybe you can ask him if there was anything suspicious after the breakup. We should meet soon and have a cup of tea.
— Your loyal subject.
Ichigo's jaw tightened as he read the report. His dad had someone infiltrate the Kuchiki family? How does this person know the name of Rukia's Zangpakto and Rukia is appointed as the next heir in line, and he didn't even know?! But his dad was aware of this whole situation? Also, there is an evil plan that Rukia's family is plotting against his own? All this new information came like a shock to Ichigo. Memories of his last night with Rukia coming back to him, along with all other happy moments they shared. He started analyzing every word she said and every move she made. The day after when he found her letter and how confused he was after reading it. Ichigo gripped his head as the kept analyzing his memories. He groaned and mumbled: "So she left me purposely that night, all because she would be appointed as the next heir? I can't believe this..." It took a while for Ichigo could recollect himself and gathered his mind together. He once again read the report as determination filled his eyes. He was going to find out what plan the Kuchiki's had in store for his kingdom and his family.
It was an early Saturday morning, the sun shining bright and the streets decorated with bright-colored flags and flowers. The atmosphere in the Kuchiki kingdom seemed light and cheery. People were leaving their houses to visit the Sakura square, the main square of the kingdom, where a big screen was placed. Today was the day of Kuchiki Rukia's appointment ceremony. An event that all the people of the kingdom looked forward to. An appointment ceremony was maybe not as special as a coronation, but it was an event to celebrate and also to show others how wealthy and prosperous the kingdom was.
"Rukia-sama!" A raven haired woman around 1.70 cm came running into the room, her glasses almost falling off her face as her hair was messy and face flushed from the running she had done. When she entered the room, she looked around, not fining a clue of the woman she was so desperately looking for. A huff escaped her lips as her hand now was placed on her hip, with the other hand pressing up her glasses. "She's nowhere to be found. How odd..." The raven haired woman walked around the room, in search of the woman of the day. "Rukia-sama. It's time to get ready for the ceremony."
"Lisa, I'm here." A calm voice suddenly said, coming from the bathroom. Lisa, the raven haired, made her way to the voice, a sigh once again leaving her. "Rukia-sama, you're not even dressed. Why are you taking so long? Hanataro is already waiting with the Furisoda Kimono." Rukia was now looking up at the woman. This whole morning, Rukia had been sitting in her bathtub, overthinking her new position. The past few weeks had not been easy. Day and night, she had to follow additional classes, learning about strategy and what tasks were expected from her as the next heir in line. She also had to learn all the names of the people who were working within the Kingdom, train with the army and also her brother made sure she would also learn about his new plans. All this exhausted the petite woman, and she couldn't help to doubt herself. Thoughts of self-doubt and anxiety kept creeping in her mind. What if she wasn't good enough? What if she couldn't measure up to the expectations of her brother and the entire kingdom. Eventually last night her thoughts and feelings became too much that she decided to take a long hot bath, which eventually ended with the petite female sitting in the bath all night, the tears streaming down her face.
Lisa took Rukia to Hanataro, the fittest of the Kuchiki family. He was known as a humble man with a unique personality. Most fitters and stylists in the kingdom are known for their flamboyant and arrogant behavior, but Hanataro was the opposite. He was shy but honest and a very pleasant man to have a conversation with. Rukia actually enjoyed his company and could even confide in him with things she could not even trust Renji with.
"Rukia-san, the day is here!" Hanataro greeted Rukia happily, but his expression immediately changed as he saw her haggard face. "Are you okay?" He asked concerned, his hand touching her arm lightly. Rukia nodded and offered him a faint smile. "I'll just be glad to be in my bed once the day is over." She admitted. "Let's get to business." Hanataro looked worried but decided to let Rukia be. Being appointed to be the next heir in line comes with its own worries and fears, the designer thought. He walked to the back of the room and came back with a silky white kimono, light purple flowers embedded on the fabric. He handed the kimono to Lisa and walked towards the door. "Lisa will help you get dressed. Let me know once you're done!" A few moments later, Rukia was all dressed and called Hanataro back into the room. He immediately gasped as he entered the room, nodding in approval. "You look breathtaking. Kuchiki-sama will be very pleased with you. He's so lucky to have such a beautiful, talented sister standing behind him." Hanataro kept on rumbling while adjusting the purple obi and golden obi-dome around her wait. It was if his words were not even registering in her brain. Rukia simply stood there as a lifeless doll. Her thoughts for some reason wandering back to her childhood memories. Flashes of her running in the snow with Renji and Ichigo flashing before her eyes. Was she going crazy?
After getting dressed, Rukia was sent to the hairdresser to fix her hair. Her hair was placed in a beautiful bun with a golden hairpin in the middle. The hairpin was made from pure gold, a flower in the center with emerald stones in it. After getting her hair done, it was time for make-up. Lisa managed to put on some subtle light make-up, enhancing Rukia's natural beauty. Just when Lisa finished, a certain red hair entered the room. "It's almost time. I don't hope you have cold fe-..." Renji could barely finish his sentence as he looked at the female in front of him in the white kimono. Rukia looked breathtaking with her up do hairstyle, her snow-white skin even brighter due to the make-up she was wearing. Renji's stare made the female uncomfortable, her cheeks slowly turning a shade of pink. "W-What? Is there something o-on my face?" Rukia stuttered, fidgeting with her sleeve. "N-No... I'm sorry to stare like that. That's rude of me." The voice of the red head trailed off, his eyes adverting. "I just came to pick you up. It's time to go to the ceremony hall." Rukia adverted her eyes downwards and nodded, clasping her hands together in her lab. "Lisa just finished. I'll be ready shortly." After a few minutes, Renji walked to Rukia and extended his arm for her to hold. He knew it could be quite tricky to walk alone with a kimono. Rukia took his arm and a small but genuine smile appeared on her face. "Thank you Renji."
After the ceremony ended, there was a huge reception where all the nobles and guests from other kingdoms were gathered. Each of the guests were seated at big round tables for mingling. Rukia passes by each guest to give them their thanks for support and making the time to visit the appointment kingdom. In between greetings, Rukia managed to get away. All these people made her feel exhausted, and she just needed a bit of time for herself. Smiling and paying full attention during the whole ceremony and her nervousness ate her energy. Sneakily, she made her way to the back side of the estate and walked up the balcony, the cold wind meeting her skin. It felt refreshing and soothing at the same time. Rukia spread her arms as she closed her eyes, enjoying the feeling of the air.
"You must feel so great." Rukia's eyes shot open, her body tense at the sound of a voice she could recognize in a thousand. Immediately, she turned around, searching the balcony for the man she thought she would never meet again. "Ichigo, is that you?" She asked, her eyes finally setting sight on her past lover. His bright orange hair still visible even though it was already pitch-dark outside. He was wearing a marine blue suit with golden embroidering on his shoulders, one of those suits princes would usually wear in a fairy tale. She hated to admit it, but Ichigo was taking her breath away. The way he was walking towards her, two brown chocolate eyes meeting her violet ones. "W-What are you doing here?" Ichigo's usual scowled rested on his face, arms crossed, while he came closer. "I'm here to congratulate you. What else? I never expected Byakuya to make you an heir of his kingdom. He must have trusted you more than I thought."
Rukia was so puzzled by the male's presence that she could not utter a word. She simply stared at him until she managed to get herself together. "Didn't I write that the next time we meet, it will be as enemies? You are not supposed to be here. Leave or I will call the stealth force." Rukia said firmly, her hand now forming a fist.
"I'm here as a representative of the Kurosaki kingdom. It wouldn't be nice to throw out a guest, would it?" The envelope with the golden letters appearing in his hand. He said calmly. "Besides, why are you so nervous? Is it because you are scared, or is it because you still have feelings for me?" Ichigo gave her a stern look, which caused Rukia's heart to beat even faster. "N-No. My brother would not allow you to even set foot on his estate. Tell me what you are doing here?" She now turned, closed the gap between them, meeting him face on. This surprised Ichigo as he stared right into Rukia's eyes. "What's your deal, Rukia? Why are you so nervous to be standing in front of me? It seems you are hiding something from me." The orange top's eyes still on the petite woman's form. "I have nothing to hide." Rukia said bravely with a straight face. "Of course." Ichigo said, chuckling softly, this ticked Rukia off for some reason as she said firmly "Are you accusing me of lying?"
"How could I accuse a new appointed heir of lying? That would be the dead of me." His jaw tightened as he came even closer, never losing eye contact in the meantime. "Look Rukia. I'm here to congratulate you, but also to ask you one thing. Why did you break up with me? Was it because of this whole heir thing?" Rukia could feel her throat getting dry as she tried to find any saliva in her mouth to swallow. It took her a few moments before answering his question. "Didn't I make myself clear? I broke it off because I felt disgusted being with you. It had nothing to do with me being appointed as a new heir" Ichigo nodded simply. "If I really disgust you, why did you come that night? If I was so disgusting, why did you act like you were desperate and helpless? Why did you touch me as if you never wanted to let go?" Looking into Ichigo's eyes from up close suddenly made Rukia sick, as she was suddenly reminded of her brother's wish. The words about creating the perfect warrior coming back to her. 'We'll make sure that Kurosaki Ichigo's own flesh and blood will kill him cold-blooded.' A little boy looking just like Ichigo appearing in her imagination. Currently, there was a baby coming, and he wasn't even aware of it.
Quickly she turned away as she stumbled to the other end of the balcony, gagging at the thought of what she had done to the male beside her, the one she loved so dearly. Ichigo saw Rukia's reaction and stood there cold and not caring for the woman in front of him. He wanted to walk towards her to continue the conversation. He wasn't quite done with questioning her. But before Ichigo could even lay a hand on Rukia, Renji stopped him. "Ichigo, you're not supposed to be here." Renji said calmly, his arms now holding Rukia firmly so that she would not fall unto the ground. "Renji, such a surprise." Renji glared at Ichigo, ushering Rukia inside. "Ichigo, please stay the heck away from us. From the Kuchiki. You being here is already dangerous enough. Get the out!" Renji hissed before leaving with Rukia. Ichigo rubbed his face, an unease came over him. Renji's words held some sort of warning and were heavier than he would expect from his friend. It made his inside stir because he still cared deeply for his childhood friends, and seeing Renji leaving with Rukia made him feel even worse. Why did their families have to be in this feud?
But Rukia's reaction and the way she reacted to him was a definite confirmation that she was hiding something and that her decision had something to do with the Kuchiki agenda. He knew that Rukia wasn't one to have a sick stomach easily, so whatever has made her like this, it made him even more suspicious. Ichigo shook his head as he remembered the purpose of his visit. Like Renji said, he wasn't supposed to be here. His parents didn't even know he left the palace, but he was there to find more information about the thing the Kuchiki's were plotting. He needed to find out more about the prisons and their plans.
A few weeks have passed since the ceremony and Orihime was sitting in front of the window of her room. Staring into space as her hand was on her little bump. The auburn beauty was now 16 weeks into her pregnancy and slowly the signs of her pregnancy were noticeable. Her weird cravings for food were increasing even more, as well as her morning sickness. These past few months had been a rollercoaster for the girl. Getting blood tests done every now and then, Urahara was making sure the baby was healthy and growing. Yoruichi was there for her mental support, and then there was Uliquorra, her childhood friend and her guard. In these past few months, Orihime wasn't able to communicate much with her friend. She still was mad at him for leaving her and making her think she was dead. Also, he was now a minion of the people who held her captive. He couldn't be trusted.
"Are you still staring, woman? All day you stare but nothing changes. Stop hoping for someone to help you." Uliquorra said in his usual cold tone while placing Orihime's breakfast on the table next to her. She decided to ignore his comment and gazed to her food. It was oatmeal again with a few berries on the side. "Thank you for the food." She mumbled before taking a bite. Uliquorra watched the female from afar. He couldn't understand Orihime. She had always been a lively and bright child that was brought up in a positive environment. Always hoping and seeing the best. But couldn't she see that the situation she was in was too great and too horrible to be saved from?
"Ulquiorra-kun." Orihime suddenly said. "I would appreciate it if you would keep such comments for yourself. It's not good for the baby. Every harmful word could impact the baby's life in a bad way." Ulquiorra came closer as he looked down at the woman, a very faint grin could be detected on his face. "Woman, you keep surprising me. In all these years, you have never changed, and I'm not certain how to feel about that." He now extended his hand and hesitated to touch her auburn hair, which he was so used to stroke when he was a little boy. "Not that I have any feelings." He added while taking back his hand, turning around. "Woman, do you really think you will be able to raise this child? You are merely used as a shell to carry and birth this being. It will be taken away from you." Orihime closed her eyes while putting her spoon down, collecting her thoughts. Those words of her old friend made her heart sink, but it wasn't the time to be discouraged. "Ulquiorra-kun... I don't want to hear about this. Not another word. It is not good for the baby." She once again repeated. "I would appreciate it if you leave the room." The male simply granted her request and left the room.
Orihime had always been an easy yet hard to read human being. She was always cheerful and open about what she was feeling. Whether she had pain or was the happiest person in the world, she would make sure to share this with everyone. Seeing her send him away reminded him of the times they used to fight, and Orihime would always honestly tell him that she disliked him at that moment. Thinking back at the moment momentarily brought a weird sensation in Ulquiorra's body, but he soon shook off the feeling. "Humans are useless emotional beings." He whispered to himself as he hardened his eyes once again.
Right at that moment a loud siren was echoing through the walls, guards appearing from all floors, making their way to the main entrance of the building. Uliquiorra watched all guards make their way downstairs. Each floor of the building had a security station, where all guards would stay during their shifts. Uliuqiorra made his way to the station on his floor and peeked inside. The whole station was empty. Uliquiorra entered the room and noticed a presence sitting in the corner of the room, not even making eye contact. "I suppose there is trouble in paradise?" Uliquorra said, still walking around the room, looking for any machinery he could use or take. "You can say that. You and Orihime-san need to leave right away. It could be dangerous for her to remain here." Ulquiorra isn't the one to share feelings, but within himself he was chuckling. It isn't like Orihime would be safe here either, but that was besides the main point. "Where do you want me to bring her?"
"Ocean side. It is a strictly private resort owned by the Kuchiki. They arranged your stay. In two hours, the car that will escort you there will leave from this place. Make sure not to startle Orihime-san, she's been quite sensitive these pas few weeks." Uliquorra nodded, finally turning around to meet his employer. "Urahara-san. I'm asking this simply because I don't like to be kept in the dark on details that could negatively influence my assignment, but why was this decision made? That woman surely will notice something is amiss."
Urahara's focused stare was now meeting Uliquorra's cold one, as he sighed loudly. "I will tell you because you asked. We received word that someone wants to commit a raid to this place. Who it exactly is we don't know. It could either be the Kurosaki's together with Unohaha. Or... probably most unlikely, but it could also be the rebels." As Urahara was speaking, he kept looking at Ulquiorra, who remained staring as well. Neither of them breaking eye contact. It looked like it was a contest to see who could intimidate the other. "Rebels. You mean those barbarians that are trying to overthrow the entire monarchy? Those fools don't stand a chance. Believing in something so ridiculous." Uliquorra answered.
"I'm glad you feel the same way. But that aside, we need to bring Orihime-san in safety. I trust you will protect her with your life." Urahara stood up from his corner and walked towards the door, handing the other male a piece of paper. "This is the location of where you two will be staying. Oh, and before I forget. Kuchiki-sama and Rukia-san will be here to see you two off. They haven't seen Orihime-san, and they would like to make sure she leaves this place alive and well." Honestly, Uliquorra didn't care about the Kuchiki's, but he tried to act interested and failed. Causing Urahara to grin. "At least put an effort to try to act like you care about them. Kuchiki-sama isn't fond of people who don't act like they care. It's rude."
"It's not like I can change my face, but I'll make sure that woman will be presentable." Uliquoirra said while checking the paper before leaving the room. Urahara at the same time left as well, making his way downstairs to the other guards to fill them in about the situation.
Two hours later, Orihime was escorted downstairs by Uliquorra and two other guards. Youruichi came to her room and filled her in about the situation. She would change location because they all agreed it would be better for the baby and her body to stay at a place where she could relax. She was told that her new house would be near the oceans. Orihime had never seen an ocean in her life, so the thought about staying and living near an ocean made her above and beyond excited. Could you believe it? A young woman from a small-town living in a house near the beach? This was too good to be true, and after staying at such a horrible facility for so long, she knew that not all people could be trusted. Despite her good relationship with Yoruichi, Orihime did not want to get hurt again.
So, here she was, two hours later, wearing a beautiful pink A line dress. Her hair flowing down her body and her hairpins attached to her dress. Besides the situation, Orihime was also told that she would meet Byakuya Kuchiki and his sister Rukia Kuchiki. They were supposed to be responsible for arranging her new place to stay. Orihime didn't know how to feel about that. Weren't they the one responsible for all this? Raiding her village, killing her brother and taking away Tatsuki-chan? But rather than resisting, Orihime obeyed and did as she was told. She put on the dress, which graced her small bump elegantly. "I need to put up with this... for baby-chan." She softly whispered to herself as she was ushered inside a big dining hall. It was the dining hall where Urahara-san brought her the news that she was pregnant.
Inside the dining hall, the Kuchiki's were already seated and waiting for the guests to arrive. "My apologies for the delay, Kuchiki-san. You know, pregnant women need to take their time." Szayelporro-san said. Byakuya didn't bat him an eye as he turned to his sister, who was staring in front of her the whole time. "How are you holding up, Rukia?" Byakuya asked, studying her body language, which clearly pointed out that she was nervous. "I'm okay, Nii-sama. Just curious about this pregnant woman. She must be truly grateful that we are moving her to a better place." Rukia said, feeling sweat emerging on her skin, heart beat raising. "Haven't you seen her picture? I'm sure you did." Rukia wanted to panic and didn't quite know what to reply, luckily she was saved by the doors that opened on that moment.
Four people made their way into the dining room. Urahara together with Yoruichi and Uliquiorra with Orihime. Byakuya and Rukia stood up from their chairs to greet the four. "Kuchiki-sama, I'm glad you were able to make it." Urahara said to start the conversation. "Of course. I'm quite curious about this lady who's bearing this wonderful child." Byakuya's gray eyes landed on Orihime, an intrigued expression on his face. Orihime in turn bowed down before the Kuchiki's and politely introduced herself. "I'm the one who's expecting. My name is Inoue Orihime and I want to thank you for your kindness." Her soft yet lovely voice filled the room, taking Byakuya surprised. He hadn't seen such a graceful person in a long time. She wasn't graceful like Rukia, but had a different feel to her behavior. For some reason, it reminded him of his late wife, Hisana. However, he wasn't going to be impressed by her mere introduction. "Inoue-san..." Rukia softly replied, causing the auburn haired beauty to look up at the petite female in front of her. "You have a beautiful name. It suits you, just as your looks." Rukia replied kindly, a faint smile on her lips as her eyes noticed the little bump under her dress. "T-Thank you." Orihime blushed as she returned the faint smile with one of her own. Rukia inside her heart, however, wasn't satisfied with this meeting. Instead of feeling jealous or mad, she was upset and ashamed to present herself in front of this woman. The woman who's bearing the child of the man she so dearly loved, shared fond memories with. It was her own fault, she was responsible for this happening, but she couldn't help to wonder and feel a pang of pain in her heart. But she had to remain strong, strong for herself and for the kingdom.
After the whole introduction, the Kuchiki's, Urahara and Yoruchi brought Ulquiorra and Orihime to the car that would escort them to the ocean villa they would be staying. "I hope to see you at the ocean house, Inoue-san. I will make sure to visit you and make sure everything is to your liking. Until then, stay safe and let me know if you need anything." The leader of the Kuchiki clan said, escorting the woman to the door of the vehicle. Orihime was quite surprised by how such a gracious and noble person could have executed such horrible deeds towards her village. She noticed that she found it hard to be in his presence. It was if the air was thick, and she found it hard to swallow, but she could not muster up the courage to refuse his help. "Thank you for being so kind to me, Kuchiki-sama. I will not forget your kindness. Until we meet again." She said, bowing her head in respect. Uliquorra watched this whole interaction and could not understand how Orihime could obey and show such respect to a man who had hurt her brother. But just like her, he had to endure this whole facade until the end. After Urahara left a final message with Ulquiorra, the car left the facility and the Kuchiki's watched the car leave. Byakuya pleased with the decision he made, and Rukia feeling more guiltily and also slightly jealous of Orihime.
Orihime looked outside the windows and could not believe she was actually leaving this facility where she had stayed more than 5/6 months. It felt so surreal. Memories of the nights she cried her eyes out coming back to her, as well as memories of her walking with Yoruichi in the garden. As the car kept on moving, the female could feel the weight that she didn't notice she even had fall off her shoulders. Orihime was too occupied with her thoughts that she didn't notice Uliquorra offering her a piece of bread.
"Woman, don't forget to eat. If you don't eat it, I'll have to shove it through your throat." Orihime sulked at Ulquiorra's words. "Don't be such a meanie. Like I'll ever let you do something like that." Without noticing, Uliquorra chuckled, and this surprised Orihime. Seeing the sun shine and sitting in a car with her old friend reminded her of the time they were children. "You seem more relaxed, Ulquiorra-chan." She said playfully, taking a chomp of her bread. "Please refrain from calling me that. I'm not the same person anymore." "W-why won't you yell me, why?" Orihime asked with her mouth full, still chewing on her bread. "There's a time for everything, woman. Right now, I can't really tell why, but perhaps in the future they might be a time." Uliuqiorra said coldly, adverting his gaze from the woman to the front of the car.
After their bite to eat, both Ulquiorra and Orihime dozed off in the car. Little did they know that their driver also dozed off and without anyone being conscious, a big blast hit the car. It was a laser blast created by kidou that went straight through the car, causing the vehicle to blow apart in pieces.
Meanwhile, a certain carrot top was making his way from his home to Sado's home in the Unohana kingdom. After much consideration, he received approval of his parents to finally visit the Unohana estate after many months. Unohana decided to give Ichigo another chance, as she could feel that the young man had reflected on his actions.
On long journey's Ichigo liked to travel by horse instead of car. With a car, he would need to travel with enforcement, but most of the time he preferred to travel alone. While he was travelling he noticed that a few kilometers from his location something had been taken place. Smoke was now coming out the southern direction, and with such a kind heart as Ichigo, he couldn't help it but to see what happened and if there were people in need. While riding his horse to the place of the incident, he came across a yellow / brown light that surrounded something that looked like... a body? Ichigo stopped his horse and jumped off to see what this light was. As soon as he tried to approach it, the light disappeared and revealed an auburn haired female, her hands covering her stomach as her chest was going up and down, indicating that she was still breathing. Resembling sleeping beauty. Ichigo was taken aback by her appearance and flinched a few times before kneeling and checking her pulse.
"Miss, are you okay? Miss?" He softly tried to shake the woman, but without any response. He even wetted a piece of clothing and held it against her face, but without any luck. "Crap... I think she might need to see a doctor." He grumbled as he picked her up and placed her upon the horse. "If I go to Unohana right now, I might make it before dinner." He said to himself, looking at the woman. "Keep hanging in there. I'll bring you somewhere safe." And with that, Ichigo made his way to the Unohana estate.
What a wild rideeeeee! I feel so bad that I couldn't write any IchiHime moments, but this really was needed to build the story. Also, I left out the whole ceremony for Rukia. I might incorporate in one of my future chapter. Aaaaand, as promised, here are my shout-outs to my lovely reviewers who keep supporting me. Much love for you all!
sapphirehimitsu: Thank you so much for your kind words and patience! In this chapter Orihime and Ichigo finally meet each other, sort of... hehe.
tipipkd: Your words always encourage me so much! You really deserve all the credit for getting me back to writing. I must say it's a challenge, but since I've aged, I guess I also have a different perspective on things now? But I'm glad you still like it!
Mdelcsw70: So happy that you like the story, but I feel bad for not being able to corporate many IchiHime moments in this chapter T^T... but from the next chapter onward there should be more!
hiMe-iChi-uLqUi-gRim: Ulquiorra really is a character close to my heart, so he had to appear in this story! Kubo really made an interesting character, but I find it hard to write his thoughts and actions, so he might be OCC. So sorry for that! But I really appreciate you showing interest in my story. Please be patient, Ichihime moments are on the way!
dhianarndraha: Thank you so much for your patience! Your words really encourage me to keep on writing.
Please like a review! See you next chapter :)