Epilogue:
It has been two years since Ichigo entered that Senkaimon, leaving Rukia and the Sereitei behind. It has been six months since he regained his shinigami powers in full. In truth, he was stronger than ever. Now, he has returned to the Sereitei to continue the life he left behind.
XXX
"Kurosaki Ichigo, you are hereby appointed with the rank of Captain of the 5th squad of the Gotei 13. You have been appointed this rank due to your defeat of former 5th squad captain, Sosuke Aizen. Do you accept?" Head Captain Yamamoto asked.
"I do, and I promise that I will do all in my power to protect the Gotei 13, as well as my squad, as a captain," Ichigo formerly responded, while kneeling.
"Very well. Rise, Captain Kurosaki, and go to your new squad to establish your leadership."
Ichigo did just that. He exited the 1st squad barracks and was met by Lieutenant Hinamori outside. She delightedly led him to his new quarters, where he would live from now on. Then, Ichigo prepared to speak to the 5th squad; this was the only part about being a captain that he dreaded. Ichigo stepped up to front of the room, Momo at his side, and faced the shinigami seated at the tables.
"Good morning, Squad 5. My name is Ichigo Kurosaki, but most of you probably already know that. What I'm here to tell you is that I will be replacing Aizen as your new captain. As your captain, I intend to repair all the damage Aizen has done, as well as improving the shinigami of the Sereitei for the great threats of the future," Ichigo finished, and then waited for a response. The room erupted with various cheers and applauds. Apparently his speech was better than he thought it had been. Momo turned to him and bowed, then she walked away to complete her other duties. Ichigo had the position of captain, the respect of his squad, and now there was only one more thing he needed, Rukia.
XXX
Ichigo approached the Captain's Office of the 13th squad. He entered after being welcomed in by Ukitake, who he could now call Jushiro, which still felt a little strange. At this point, Jushiro already knew what Ichigo was here for, but he would let this play out, nonetheless.
"Good morning, Ichigo. How the position of 5th squad captain treating you?" Ukitake asked cheerfully.
"Being a captain is great. How's everything with Squad 13?"
"Fine, fine. You know, I'm still being treated like I'm helpless, due to my disease, but I'm used to that by now. Has Momo grown accustomed to you yet? I'm sure the loss of Aizen is still somewhat hard on her."
"Hinamori seems to be fine, for now, but I'm watching out for her. I'll be there if she needs a shoulder to lean on. Have you gotten a new fukutaicho yet?"
"Yes, actually, Rukia Kuchiki is my new lieutenant."
"Really? I mean, I think she was a great choice for vice-captain. Speaking of Rukia, do you know where she is?"
"I'm right here Strawberry-taicho," Rukia's voice called out from behind Ichigo, who turned around with a smile on his face."
"Now, now, Midget-fukutaicho, let's not be disrespectful," Ichigo retorted.
The two stayed there for a few moments, taking in the sight of each other after so long. Rukia wiped a tear of joy from her eye, and Ichigo rose from his seated position to approach her. When he reached her, he wrapped his arms around her, planting a kiss on her forehead. Rukia returned his warm embrace with one of her own, snuggling her head into Ichigo's chest. Ichigo and Rukia turned around when they heard Ukitake's warm chuckle behind them. They released each other and blushed profusely. Then, they exited the office together.
Ichigo had everything he needed and more than he could ever want, just by having Rukia at his side. Now as 5th Squad captain, Ichigo will continue his life in the Sereitei, as it should be.
The End