Guest: (I use google translate so it might not be accurate) And I'm wondering - how do the spirits and illusions of Roubaul interact with the physical world? Clothes cannot be made from an illusion, and Ichigo and Wendy cannot be fed food made out of thin air. Besides, I doubt that Roubaul can hold an entire village of ghosts, everyone! Of which there are individuality and occupations. If it were the Community of Souls, I would still understand. But illusions... I hope you clear this up. That is a great point but don't worry, I have come up with an answer. I think it'll answer your question. I plan on Roubaul explaining this to Ichigo in a future chapter.

Chapter 11: Wendy's birthday

After the big announcement was revealed. Roubaul had been working hard. Despite getting the approval from the magic counsel. He still had to work on many things. Common trade, managing the infrastructure of the guild hall, etc. Currently, he had to decide on what the architecture of the guild hall was going to look like. After he makes the decision, he would have to inform the magic counsel. Honestly, it was a big headache. But after some thinking, he decided that the guild would resemble a cat. With the main building resembling a cat's head. It didn't take too long for the citizens to build the guild hall.

It had almost been 2 years since then. Throughout that time, there weren't many major events other than celebrating birthdays, cultural festivals, Christmas, and New Year. Ichigo and Wendy would continue to live out their lives in the village, it was peaceful. Wendy had grown since then. She grew a bit taller and her hair grew longer than before. Wendy and Mio's shy behavior has decreased as they continue to spend time together, becoming best friends. With the two making new friends up until recently. Wendy even became familiar with the village's citizens, greeting them without any trouble whenever they would say hello to her. Much to Ichigo and the other's delight. She even started to learn how to cook a year prior from Hina. She didn't want Ichigo to do all of the work.

Ichigo, on the other hand, hasn't changed much. He was still a bit quiet. He was currently 10 years old. Even though he didn't know his actual age back when he first arrived here. He decided to go at the age of 9. He could've said 8, that way he would have more time to train. But he thought that joining a guild would be beneficial. The boy had gotten taller, his physique became more toned and fit. A six-pack could be visible. The boy had trained hard. Other than physical strength, he also worked on his stamina. He even learned and practice material arts. Even though he had his sword, he wanted to learn another skill just as a precaution. There might be a time or situation where he isn't able to use his Zanpakuto. The orange-haired boy continues to work on the farm since he's unable to join the guild because of his age. He even got to know some of the workers in the time that had gone by. Unfortunately, he didn't learn anything about Roubaul or this village. But he decided to wait patiently for the Chief's answers.

Despite the positives that came, there were still the negatives. Even though the time they spent here was peaceful and unforgettable. Ichigo didn't achieve much. They haven't found Grandeeney even though it has been so long. And he still didn't know what the curse was despite the boatload of information he collected over time. He didn't wake up early as often when he first came here. However, he would sometimes have nightmares, remembering the past events before coming here. He couldn't move past what had happened. He was glad Wendy haven't found out about his sleeping problems. He didn't want to worry her or anyone else nor want to make a big deal out of it. Thankfully no one has noticed or addressed his behavior.

It was currently February 27 X779, Ichigo and Roubaul were outside, wandering around, searching for anything that their interests. Today was a special day. It was Wendy's 7th birthday. They were both looking for a gift for Wendy. Ichigo didn't have to go to work today. He should have enough time to find a present. While Roubaul was just avoiding work. Two days prior, they planned for Wendy's surprise birthday party. The plan was for Mio and Hina to go over to their home and preoccupy Wendy. While Ichigo, Roubaul, Anisa, and Wendy's friends were to go to Mio's home to decorate the place. They planned on celebrating Wendy's birthday at her place.

"You sure you should be avoiding work?" Ichigo asked while eyeing a store.

"It's fine, I don't want to miss Wendy's birthday party" The chief reassured "I also don't want to work," Roubaul whispered, mostly to himself.

"...If you say so."

While the two continue to look for a gift. Hina and Mio had arrived at Ichigo's place. Hina was carrying ingredients and aprons in a big. While Mio knocked on the door, they saw their blue-haired friend slowly opening the door.

"Happy Birthday Wendy!" Mio said with excitement. While Hina was calmer. "Happy Birthday Wendy"

"Thank you!" Wendy exclaimed while hugging the two. She couldn't contain her excitement. They returned the embrace. "But why are you here?" she released her hugged and asked. Ichigo had informed her beforehand that they will be going to Mio's place to celebrate. Since their place was much bigger than their own. And Wendy could always invite others. She didn't know about the party that was going to be held.

"We're here to make a cake with you," Hina explained

"But I thought nii-san was going to get the cake?"

"We talked to Ichigo and he said he didn't mind" Hina was the next to speak. "Plus, I believe it would be fun and a good learning experience."

"Oh ok," she accepted her explanation. "What cake are we making?" Wendy asked as she welcomed the two into their home.

Hina and Mio both made themselves inside, "a chocolate cake" she responded. The mother didn't think they should make a complicated cake. The two children never had much experience with making cakes. After her response, Hina explained and instructed the two girls. They went to the kitchen and grabbed all of the necessities before starting. Wendy and Mio grabbed an apron from Hina and quickly washed their hands.

Hina assigned the two girls their roles. Mio was going to mix the dry ingredients, while Wendy would be mixing the wet ingredients. Hina quickly preheated the oven to 350 degrees. While grabbing two pans and apply grease and flower on top of them. Mio grabbed a bowl before pouring the ingredients.

2 cups of sugar

1 and 3 quarters cups of flour

3 quarters cup of cocoa powder

1 and a half teaspoons of baking powder

1 and a half teaspoons of baking soda

And lastly, 1 teaspoon of salt.

The girl soon stirred all of the dry ingredients together. It wouldn't take too much time for the girl to mix the ingredients. After the girl had finished mixing, it was Wendy's turn to add the wet ingredients.

She added 2 eggs

1 cup of milk

Half a cup of vegetable oil

And 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.

Afterward, she starts to mix the ingredients. It had taken a bit of time, they didn't have an electric mixer. The batter soon turned into a creamy texture. She was pretty tired after mixing the ingredients. After a little break, Hina grabbed boiling water and slowly poured it into the batter. She asked both Mio and Wendy to mix it with the batter. At first, the two thought the batter looked thin, but Hina ensure the two that the batter will set up just fine. The three poured the batter into the two pans they had earlier, before putting it in the oven. After the batter was baked, they left it out to cool off, before putting on the frostings. Hina let the two on the frosting. She didn't want them to feel left out. As the two made their final touches, the woman packed the cake inside a white cardboard box.

They went to their next destination. It was a 10-minute walk from Wendy's home to Mio's. It had been quite some time since Wendy last came to their home. She was excited to see if anything changed. Hina grabbed out her keys and unlocked the door. Wendy looked inside, the place looked a bit dark. She couldn't see what was about to happen. As Mio flickered the lights, everyone behind the furniture popped out of their position.

"Happy birthday!" everyone inside the home yelled out.

Wendy was caught off guard by the sudden event. From what Wendy could see there were many blue ribbons and different colors of balloons surrounding the room. In the center of the room, there was a giant poster that wrote "Happy Birthday Wendy,". Ichigo and the others had already decorated the place.

She stood there, quietly as her tears slowly flowed down her eyes. She would have never expected everyone to be here. She had never had so many people celebrate her birthday before. Nor did she think they would go out of their way to do this. The year prior, it was only herself, Ichigo, Rabaul, Anisa, and Mio. But now, there were so many who were here to celebrate her birthday. She tried to wipe her tears but they kept flowing. Most of the kids in the room rushed to comfort the girl.

"Wendy don't cry," one of the friends said, she started to cry after seeing Wendy teared up. Some of her other friends comforted the girl. While Ichigo and the other adults looked at them, showing a smile, knowing that Wendy wasn't upset. Hina made her way to an empty table to put down and unbox the cake that they made.

"Don't cry Wendy, I don't think you would want to spend your time crying," Hina looked back and said.

"Y-you're right" she wiped her tears away. She even presented a smile, while talking to her friends.

As the party continued, Roubaul called out to everyone, getting their attention. "I believe it is time to eat the cake!" he said, craving the food.

Everyone agreed and walked up to the cake, Wendy's friend group couldn't wait to eat the cake. They got themselves a plate and utensils, even Wendy joined them. But before they cut up the cake, Ichigo stopped them.

"...Aren't you forgetting something?" Ichigo asked

Everyone looked at the boy and quickly realized that they did forget something. They had to sing the birthday song to Wendy. They apologized to Wendy. However, Wendy quickly disregarded the apology, since she had also forgotten about it. Wendy went to one side of the table while everyone else was on the other side. They started to sing the song in unison. Each voice could be heard, some better than others. Wendy started to tear up once more as the song continued. Despite the crying, the mood had never changed. It was bright, beautiful, and heartwarming.

"What did you wish for dear?" Anisa asked after Wendy had blown the candles.

On Wendy's 6th birthday, the girl had already wished to reunite with her mother. They all hoped her wish would come true someday. But now Ichigo and everyone else didn't know what was on Wendy's mind. Wendy had never really touched on this kind of topic before this. She wasn't selfish. Everyone waited for her response.

"I wish…to make another friend" the girl smiled, she honestly didn't have a wish in mind and was smart enough to not repeat a wish.

Everyone was silent, they didn't expect that kind of answer. She didn't need to make such a wish, she could easily grant that wish. However, none of them wanted to judge her decision. They left it at that, they couldn't say much because of her innocent behavior.

"..I hope your wish comes true," Ichigo said with a gentle voice. As he walked up to the girl.

"Thanks" her smile even brighter than before. He expected the boy to pat her head as he walked closer.

However, the boy had different intentions as he pulled out a small box behind him. It was wrapped in blue paper with a light blue ribbon tying it together. "...Happy birthday..Wendy" he displayed a gentle smile as he handed Wendy the present.

The girl looked at the present that was in his hand, before taking it. Her smile grew bigger as she opened it and saw the content inside. She saw a white braided woven bracelet with turquoise patterns around the bracelet. It was said to be waterproof. However, the bracelet didn't have a clip-on, only strings. Meaning Wendy would have to tie the bracelet together onto her wrist. Ichigo looked at the astonished face that was on Wendy's face. He hoped she would like it. He wasn't an expert at giving someone a gift, especially if it was the opposite gender.

The gift on her 6th birthday was a hair clip, it wasn't much. Just a blue clip with white wings on the side. But to his surprise back then, she loved the gift, even to the point that she would wear it every day. Now, he had hoped this would meet his expectations. There wasn't a reason why he had gotten it. He just thought that some of her favorite colors were used and it would look good on the girl.

"C-can I wear it?" she stuttered, as she continued to look at the gift.

Ichigo was kinda confused by the question but answered. "It's yours, I don't see why not,"

Everyone looked at the girl who struggled to wear the bracelet. It's not like they didn't understand Wendy's difficulty. It was hard to tie the bracelet with one hand. Ichigo helped her tie the bracelet together.

The girl moved her wrist after the bracelet was on. She looked at every position, even presenting it to everyone. She enjoyed the gift, hugging Ichigo in the process.

"Thank you!"

"..You're welcome," as he returned the hug.

"Wait, you didn't open my gift," someone behind them said grabbing the two's attention. While others said something similar. The two laughed, Wendy made her way to all of the presents that were in front of her.

(After opening and eating the cake)

After Wendy had opened all of the gifts and everyone had thoroughly enjoyed their dessert, many talked to one another. No activity, just talking. Wendy was with her friends, while the adults were talking among themselves. Ichigo wasn't talking to anyone, he was enjoying his meal. He didn't mind the atmosphere in front of him as he continues to take his time.

"You guys wanna play hide in seek?" Roubaul asked grabbing everyone's attention. The man seemed like he wanted to do an activity and see how everyone had finished eating (except for one). He thought it was appropriate to do a group activity.

"Sure, that sounds like fun," Wendy said while everyone else agreed. Ichigo still silently eating his cake, oblivious to the whole exchange.

"Alright, who will be the seeker?"

The room became quiet. The children looked around, most didn't mind being the seeker, but it was more fun hiding. Even the adults thought the same. While Anisa, didn't feel like playing, she was convinced by her husband. They needed adult supervision.

With no one volunteering. The chief himself picked a person to be the seeker. "Ichigo, will you be the seeker for this round?" The man looked toward the quiet boy.

Ichigo looked back at Roubaul as he swallowed a piece of his cake. "...huh…" he wasn't aware of this development. The man asked the question once more. Apparently, he's asking if he wants to be the seeker. "...I don't mind, just let me finis-"

"Well there you have it, the seeker will be Ichigo!" the old man announced for everyone to hear.

"...I didn't get to finish my cake.." as he was forced to go outside.

Everyone made their outside. There weren't going to play in the backyard. Everyone could see the backyard wasn't big, but there was a barn nearby with a forest up ahead. Thus, agreed the boundaries were going to be the barn and some part of the forest. Everyone knew better not to wander around too far, and with three adults with them. There shouldn't be a problem.

"...I'll start counting then," the boy announced as they got to the area. Closing his eyes, he counted. Everyone started running in different directions. While Wendy and Mio went together.

After the 60 seconds was up, Ichigo opened his eye and wandered around. He first went to the barn, since it was closest to him. He found 3 people in the barn. One was behind the door, while Roubaul and another kid were hiding behind the hay. Originally there were 10 people including himself at the party. Everyone participated in this game. Meaning he would need to find 6 more people.

He went to the field after inspecting the barn. He soon spotted a pair of legs behind a horse. The horse wasn't that big. It covered most of the kid's body. It wasn't as stupid of a hiding spot as it seems. Unfortunately for the kid however, the horse moved out of the way, leaving her wide open. The two stared at each other, an awkward silence surround the two as they continue to look at each.

"Sorry...but you're out"

(2 people remaining)

Searching everywhere, Ichigo had managed to find most of them. However, he wasn't able to find Wendy or Mio. He asked everyone to help him find them since it would be harder to do it himself. He was currently in the forest. He called out their names but no response. They probably still think he hasn't found anyone yet.

As the boy wandered further into the forest. He heard a tiny voice off in the distance. He recognized Wendy's voice, there wasn't any hint of urgency or panic in her voice. He walked over to some bushes and saw Wendy with Mio. "..This brings back memories," the kid recalled, his mood brightening up.

Wendy was the first to see Ichigo walking up to them. Her eyes were met with Ichigo's. Glad to see Ichigo had found them. It was taking quite some time. As Ichigo made his way to them, he noticed a big white and pink egg behind them. "What the," he thought to himself. Why did Wendy and Mio have a huge egg with them?

"Hi, nii-san" Wendy's outburst which caught Mio off guard. The boy waved back.

"Are we the first ones to be found?" Mio asked Ichigo before he was able to question.

Ichigo shook his head "No, you two are actually the last ones who were found. But what's with the egg behind you?"

"We found it, we walked around to find a good hiding spot and we saw the egg there" she pointed at a nearby tree behind them.

"Why did you bring it with you?"

"Because we wanted to ask Roubaul what it is," she said not aware of Ichigo's concern.

"...Did you get it from a nest?" the boy trying to imply something.

"No, we didn't," Wendy answered once again, while Mio shook her head. They both didn't know what Ichigo was indicating.

"Do you think this egg would belong to someone else?"

Wendy and Mio finally understood his concern. They must have stolen this egg from its mother. They apologize to Ichigo for being oblivious, but Ichigo wasn't mad. Just glad they finally understood.

"Wendy, Mio!" Roubauls voice could be heard. The three were glad to see him. Maybe he had the answer to what this egg was, or if this was a dangerous act. They called out to him.

"Whoa, what's with the egg?" The old man asked astonishingly. He had never seen such a big egg before. Wendy asked what the egg was but he had no answer shocking the rest.

"For now we should probably take it with us to a warm place. If the mother were to find it with us, we could always return the baby." the man said. Ichigo didn't protest. At least he knew what he was doing.

After grabbing the egg and making their way back to everyone else. Everyone was shocked to see Ichigo carrying a big egg. The chief slowly explained the situation to the group. Some worried about what will happen, while others were looking at the egg with excitement. They couldn't wait to see what was inside. They all returned to Mio's house and tried to take care of it. Putting blankets around it to keep it warm.

3 hours passed and nothing happen. Everyone went back to resume the party. With Ichigo finally finishing his cake. They played cards, board games, etc. As they continue to spend their time, a cracking sound could be heard. It was subtle and nobody noticed it. But the sound gradually became louder. Anisa was the first to notice, grabbing everyone's attention. It sounded like the egg could hatch at any moment. They stared at the egg and waited patiently. As the cracks became more visible on the egg. Everyone was holding their breath, excited to see what was inside. Maybe it was going to be a unicorn or a dragon. Most kids had that thought.

The structure of the egg slowly crumbles as a white figure was slowly appearing. Everyone spotted a female white cat inside. The animal crawled out of the egg and presented itself for everyone to see.

"...She's soo cute!" All the girls shouted in unison, startling the newborn cat. Ichigo and some others wondered why a cat would be in the egg. A big egg at that.

"Not so loud…you're hurting my ears," the cat said. The group paused, realizing who the voice had come from. They all screamed at what had happened, much to the cat's annoyance. Bombarding the cat. They were all surprised. Ichigo, however, was more than surprised. After hearing the cat talk. He was instantly reminded of Yoruichi. His heart sank. He didn't want to be reminded of the woman's death. He took a deep breath before looking back at the group.

"Do you have a name?" Wendy asked the cat, the possibility of her knowing her name was extremely small. She was a newborn after all. But Wendy was curious, if she didn't she would like to name her.

"...my name is Carla"

I know that Carla and Wendy met much sooner in the anime than in this chapter (Or at least I believe so, because of the flashbacks in the anime). Honestly, I think this was an appropriate time for Wendy and Ichigo to meet.

Just letting everyone know that I might not be able to post more chapters as frequently as I do now. I have school soon. Not only that I am a bit tired, I wrote 11 chapters in a span of 3 months. That might not look too much for some. But it's quite a lot for me. I hope you understand. I'm going with the English version of the cat's name. I realized that Sharuru kinda sounds weird.

P.S I might rewrite this chapter, it feels rushed but I don't know if I'll actually do it. Just a heads up.