Rukia awoken with a jump. She heard the commotion outside the doors of her shabby dirty room.
"Momo!" She whispered to her best friend, who was sleeping beside in her cot next to her.
Momo groaned softly, " what?" She rubbed her eyes tiredly.
Their door suddenly burst open, their other friend Hanataro, was breathing hard, eyes wide. "We have to hurry."
"What for? It's not even light out yet." Rukia was confused. Usually they woke at sunrise and prepared for the day.
"The King of the Karakura Kingdom is getting married. He has requested help."
Momo and Rukia turned to each other with looks of concerns. Help? They don't request that. They demand it.
" Who is going?" Momo asked quietly.
Hanataro gulped loudly, " It is random. They are rounding us up. We better hurry."
The girls quickly dressed in their shabby light maid dresses. Their shoes were almost completely torn and ripped.
A loud voice boomed over the intercom installed in the hallways, " Report to the kitchen area."
Rukia tuned out all the whispers, mumbling and whimpers of her fellow humans.
For as long as she could remember, this was all she knew. Working and living to serve the Beasts.
She heard of tales when she was smaller of simple times. Times where human ruled. And then one day they came and took the world in their hands.
The humans were no match for them. The Beasts were strong, tall and immortal beings.
Only the strong humans survived, the ones who had enough will to survive. They were captured and breed like animals.
Their purpose was to serve the Beasts now. That was over 200 years ago.
Generation after generation of humans slaved and tortured throughout the world of the Beasts.
Rukia was only 8 when she started working in the castle. The first time she saw a Beast, she was memorized. He was huge with shiny sleek, black hair. His eyes were a dark brown and his face was kind.
She had been playing when she should've been washing laundry. She had accidentally bumped into him.
"Hi there little girl." He had spoken. His voice loud and rough but kind.
Rukia had bowed and quickly apologized for bumping into him.
"No need to worry young one. It was an accident." He smiled softly at her.
Then she heard a hiss from behind him and the next words she heard would chill her to the bones. " She looks tasty."
Another Beast had joined him and was looking at her with hunger. Rukia teared up and bowed completely to the ground.
"She is far too young Gin. You know we can't until they are of age." the kind Beast nodded to Rukia, " Go on now. To your chores."
Rukia bolted out of there. She was foolish to think they all were kind like that one. She had to be careful from now on.
And ever since that, Rukia was always on time making sure her work was done.
She never encountered another Beast alone again nor did she want too.
Many times she saw one by one of her coworkers disappear and replaced.
Many Beasts would snatch up one of them in their time of need and almost all of them never came back.
A few would. She knew Hanataro himself was once snatched up for 3 days and she thought he was dead.
When he came back though, he was never the same.
She was not dumb. She was now 25 and knew the Beasts would sexually and physically abuse the servants around the castles.
That's why Rukia stayed doing the hard work that the other servants hated. She never wanted to be noticed by one.
Momo was recently noticed by one who was a young Beast with white hair and a mean scowl, though he only took her for a day. She didn't complain. He was hot and Momo was okay with it.
That was her though, always looking for a happy ending. Rukia would scold her. They being born human, there will never be a happy ending.
Several Beasts entered the room and nodded to each other. Many of them being grabbed by one of them and lined up against the walls of the kitchen.
Rukia held no emotion in her face. She couldn't let them see or smell fear.
She suddenly saw Momo being grabbed and lined up with other humans. She shot her a worried look.
Momo mouthed to her, " It's gonna be okay." And she smiled.
Rukia felt a large hand wrap around her slim boney arm and roughly shoved her to the other side of the room. After about 15 minutes, there was 2 sections of them divided.
One of the Beasts spoke, " This side will remain. The other, you will be traveling to Karakura Town. You will serve the King."
And that was it. Rukia felt the warmth of her body leave. Her life changed from one day to the other. Although this was no life for anyone to live, it was the only one she knew.
She could not cry. She had to be strong but when she looked at Momo, she felt her tears slip. Momo had her mouth opened and no sound coming out.
Her eyes were filled with tears staring back at Rukia. She wanted to scream and yell no but there was no point. They were nothing but slaves to the Beasts.
Her group were instructed to quickly gather their items and then dragged to the loading vans. There was no times for goodbyes or anything.
Like animals, they were loaded and tagged, with a K logo on their ankles. Rukia didn't even flinch when she felt the familiar sting of the iron.
And then they were off. Rukia slightly turned her head to look back, she was sure this was the last time she would ever see home.
The ride to Karakura Kingdom took 3 days. The Beasts in charge of them were kind.
They let them out and stretch their limbs and use the bathroom. They were fed water and sandwiches which Rukia enjoyed.
She was small and petite to begin with so she needed all her food and hydration.
When they finally reached their destination, it was nightfall.
"Tonight is the rehearsal reception for the King and his new Queen to be." One Beast spoke, " I wish you all luck" he simply said.
They were unloaded and brought to a door that was behind a dark black castle.
" Soi-Fon!" She heard someone call. " The new shipment has arrived. Unload and assign. We need at least 25 of them for the ball room."
The one named Soi-Fon rolled her eyes and glared at Rukia and her fellow humans.
" All due to losing a bet and I deal with you useless humans." She spat angrily.
For a beast, she was tiny and slender. She quickly separated them into 3 groups.
" Group A, B & C" she said mainly to herself. She held her hand to her ear and said " Ready."
Rukia knew they wore earpieces to communicate faster among each other.
Another Beast joined soon after and lead Group A & B away. Rukia was in Group C.
" Lucky you! You get to party with us Beasts tonight." Soi-Fon chuckled darkly pointing her finger at them. "Let's hope you survive."
The castle was beautiful, Rukia quietly admired the dark walls and the dark interior it was decorated in.
Her group were lead further inside the castle and soon she could hear music playing just around a corner.
Soi-Fon bursted through the door and Rukia was not prepared for what she saw.
She was not surprised of how many Beasts there were or how many of them looked downright terrifying.
No, she was surprised of how many humans she saw were dead or half dead laying around.
The realization of what was to come shocked her to her core. Her fellow humans also coming into the terrible realization.
They were food.
"Ahhh! About time!" A Beast with bright red hair approached the group. " Fresh" he sniffed the air around. " Smells good."
" Hold it." Soi-fon annoyingly shoved the red haired Beast, "Renji, these are for after the reception."
" Why? You know Ichigo is not fond of this tradition." Another Beast approached them. " You shouldn't have brought this many to begin with."
" Who asked you 4 eyes?" Renji hissed.
"Shut up." The Beast with the glasses glared at the red hair Beast named Renji.
" Seriously though Soi-Fon, whose idea was this?" He asked.
" It was a bet. " she mumbled angrily.
"With who?"
" With me!" A blue haired man joined them laughing. " How pissed do you think Ichigo will be?"
" Grimmjow.." Soi-Fon growled at him.
"Man Renji, Uryu, you should've seen the look on her face when she lost!" Grimmjow continued laughing.
Uruyu , the kind Beast sighed heavily, " I'll have to get Orihime to revive them quickly before he sees this."
Grimmjow scoffed loudly, " Why? We have more. What sympathy should I have for these useless humans anyways?"
Uruyu glared at Grimmjow, " Your King will not take well to this."
Grimmjow rolled his eyes, " Whatever, heal them. " Just as he was turning, he stopped dead in his tracks. He breathed in sharply and turned to their group.
His blue wild eyes set on Rukia. "You." He pointed at her. Rukia felt a coldness fill her body.
Grimmjow quickly approached her, tracing her small face with a finger. " You smell delicious."
Her fellow peers visibly shaking beside her. Rukia held no emotion in her face though. She learned young that they loved seeing fear from them.
"she's coming with me." He simply stated. And pulled her away with him.
No one did anything. Rukia didn't expect any different. They did whatever they wanted to them. She watched as her group were led away.
She felt Grimmjow's strong grip around her waist as he walked to an elegant table.
There were several other Beasts at said table, with humans at their feet. One woman Beast even had a young man kissing her neck while she casually held a conversation.
He sat down and sat Rukia on his lap. He was erected and purposely sat her on it.
Rukia had been lucky all these years she never had to endure sexual abuse.
What could she do? They had no feelings towards them. She felt the little will of life leave her body. She had no escape.
He began to slowly touch her neck and her thigh. " Hmm " he moaned.
But before he could go any further, everyone stood up.
" His Majesty and his Queen to be.!" Someone announced.
Everyone in the room bowed.
Grimmjow still had the idea in his head though. He lingered around her neck and shoulder and then harshly bite into her.
Rukia whimpered in pain. He was feeding on her! He'd suck the blood out of her body and she'd be dead.
" STOP!" she heard someone roar.
And then she felt herself be snatched into strong muscular arms.
Her vision was blurry but she could make out the Beast, he was tall and muscular with orange hair and a sharp jawline. The last thing she remembered was looking into his soft amber eyes.
Ichigo woken with a groan. He was to be wed today. His father thought it would be best to strengthen their Kingdom since he was still an eligible bachelor.
100 years had passed and Ichigo was yet to find his mate. He had heard of some Beasts never finding their mate but to be in the line of Royalty was utterly insulting.
He had chosen the Princess from the Inaba Clan, Senna Inaba. She was average height, purple hair, orange eyes and was fairly pretty.
The few dates they have had, he found her to be decent in conversation. She would make a good wife and mother to his children.
His castle was buzzing with servants and humans getting the wedding ready. Ichigo was a soft king. He could be ruthless in the battlefield but in his own home, he was himself.
The humans here though afraid of him, still respected him and he did not like to treat them like they were animals. He did not see the cruel hatred towards them.
Some humans even traveled far to live in his kingdom where they are treated fairly.
" You could at least smile" he heard his right man, Uruyu Ishida say as he walked into his office.
Ichigo managed a tiny smirk, "Would you ?"
" Senna is an excellent match. She'll make a good wife."
Ichigo frowned. Probably but she was not his mate. The one his Beast desired and he'd forever feel a void.
" I know." He simply answered.
Uruyu nodded at him and cleared his throat, "75 humans are being transferred here tonight."
"75? Why so many" Ichigo frowned.
" Yamamato's gift."
" I don't need anymore humans" Ichigo sighed.
" They're on their way already."
"Fine. Fill their positions." Ichigo scratched his head in thought, " Senna will need help and once children come in, she will need more eyes on them."
" Of course." Uruyu bowed. "I shall get to it."
Ichigo rolled his eyes at his formality , " yeah, yeah"
After about a few hours, it was time. His servants came in and helped him dress and prepare for his reception.
Ichigo watched down from his room when the shipment of humans arrived. As they were getting out, he felt a sting in his chest.
A sudden ache filled his chest and he felt a pull urging him to go down there but a knock at his door brought him back to his senses.
" Your Majesty ? Are you ready?" His bride to be, Senna quietly came in.
"How many times do I have to insist Senna? Call me Ichigo." He sighed. Formalities seriously annoyed him.
Senna blushed and bowed, " Forgive me.. Ichigo."
"Stop bowing too. Now let's go." He lead her to the grand hall where they were to make their entrance.
As he was nearing to the door, he felt that pull again but even stronger this time. What was going on?
" His Majesty and His Queen to be!" He heard being announced and as he walked in and everyone bowed, he caught her scent.
His Beast hungrily sniffed for her and his eyes desperately seeking her.
The terrifying roar his Beast let out even surprised him, the smell of her blood assaulted his whole being with a rage.
As he located her, he rushed to snatch her from the very being who was feeding on his mate. KILL HIM!
" STOP!" His Beast roared ferociously.
His General, Grimmjow looked shocked at him, as to everyone else in the room.
Everyone did not move for Ichigo's Beast was one of the most frightening and terrifying to be born. He was King for a reason.
He held the human girl in his arms. He sniffed her slowly and whimpered softy. His mate.
And before any could blink, Grimmjow's headless body fell to the ground with a heavy thud.
"Let that be a lesson to everyone. Do not touch her. Ever." Ichigo's Beast spoke.
Still, no one made a sound. Shock and fear stunned them to silence.
" Uruyu, Orihime. My chambers at once." His Beast spoke again to his 2nd in command and his wife, who was the top Healer.
He walked away slowly holding the girl in his arms tightly against him followed by the couple.
Everyone took a good 5 minutes after Ichigo left to even make a sound.
Renji was the first to speak, "Wha..wha..what the FUCK just happened..." he stuttered.
They stared at Grimmjow's headless body, already turning into dust. His head was a few feet away, his eyes and mouth opened in shock.
" That human girl...who was she!?" Everyone wondered what just happened and why their King reacted that way.
Senna called some of the guards over and ordered to have Grimmjow's body taken away.
Renji approached Senna, giving her a look of sadness, " I'm sorry this is happening Senna."
Senna returned a small smile, " I'm not really sure what's going on..
Just then Uruyu and Orihime came back through the doors, "Princess Senna, please meet us in His Majesty's office."
She nodded and immediately headed to Ichigo's office.
Uruyu sighed and rubbed his temples, this was going to be a nightmare.
" Everyone else..go home. There is no wedding." He loudly announced.
There were gasps all around the room. "No wedding? What is he talking about!"
" Your King will explain later." He then pointed at Soi-Fon, "Where are the rest of the humans that were with the girl?"
"They were for after the reception.." she was still confused, " who was she?"
Uruyu ignored her and proceeded to walk where the other humans were left dead , beckoning his wife to follow.
" Oh my.." she gasped as she laid her hands in the air and an orange glow fell over the humans.
Renji approached them, "What's going on?"
Uruyu sighed and rubbed his temples again, " let's just say, things are gonna change soon."
Rukia felt warmth around her. Was this death? She felt no pain or weakness, no fear or bitterness.
She slowly opened her eyes and stared at the beautiful ceiling above her. She could feel the soft cool sheets under her. She sighed in content.
Although she knew she should feel concerned, she wasn't. Death did seem nicer than what she was looking forward too.
How long was she gonna lay here? She guessed she could get up and see where she was even but she realized she was being held to the bed.
A sickening feeling in her stomach, was she slowly being abused and tortured?
She moved her legs, they aren't tied down.. she took a deep breath and reached out with her arms. Her right arm connected with something.
And that something spoke. "Oyi." Rukia turned her head slowly and again her eyes saw those amber soft eyes.
He was laying next to her. Shirtless. But he wasn't even physically touching her.
His eyes were locked into hers, his mouth parted and his breathing slowly increasing.
"Beautiful." He whispered softly. He reached his hand out to touch her but held back just before he did. " May I?"
Rukia's eyes grew in shock. A Beast was asking? She nodded out of habit.
The Beast slowly traced her face, his soft hands leaving tingles behind. She knew she should be scared and the fact that she wasn't, terrified her even more. Was this a spell?
" What is your name?." He asked.
Rukia couldn't even speak. She had never been treated this way by a Beast. One wrong move and he'd kill her.
Ichigo sensed the fear within her. His Beast was growing impatient. He was able to calm and take over before the Beast claimed her that very second.
He knew she was a human. He was little disappointed at that fact. All these years and this tiny fragile human was his mate? Cruel indeed.
Starting out slow was better. Her reactions indicated she must've been treated poorly. His Beast growled at the thought.
Again, he tenderly traced her features and softly assured her, " I won't hurt you. I promise."
Maybe it is a spell, Rukia thought, the softness of his voice, the sincere look on his face, she actually thought maybe she could trust him.
"Rukia." She croaked. She cleared her throat and spoke more clearly, " My name is Rukia. Rukia Kuchiki"
Ichigo was surprised at the sound of her voice. It held strength in it, resolution even. It wasn't a squeaky or shrilly voice he thought he'd hear.
" Ru-ki-a.." he tested her name on his tongue. His Beast sighed in content. He liked it.
Rukia watched the man smirk softly and then looked over at her again. Now the real question was, what did he want with her?
" I'm Ichigo. Ichigo Kurosaki. King of Karakura." He said as if reading her mind. He got up from the bed and as soon as he was standing up, Rukia felt like something lifted off of her.
She was able to move and sit up, shocked to hear she was laying on the bed of the King of Karakura !
Ichigo walked towards her , standing beside her on the side of the bed. He extended a hand towards her, " Come."
Rukia took his hand immediately as she decided not to disobey the King himself.
He pulled her into his arms, carrying her bridal style. Rukia tensed at his movements. Her thoughts going wild.
Ichigo tried to read her face but she held no expression. She was interesting indeed.
He carried her to another room, a room darker and decorated in dark red colors. He sat her on the bed and walked to a door leading to another room, " I'll be back." He said and walked out.
Ichigo entered his office where, Uruyu, Orihime and Senna were waiting.
" Ichigo.." Senna bowed formally, "What is going on?"
How could he tell her that he had found his mate? No matter what, he had too.
Ichigo took her hand and bowed down to a knee, shocking Senna, " My King! Please stand up!" She gasped.
" Senna..I am deeply sorry. It seems I have found my mate. There for, I cannot marry you." Ichigo really did feel bad, his Beast not so much. Hairy bastard.
Senna's mouth fell open in shock, that girl..that human girl.. she's his mate? " Are you..sure?" She squeaked.
Ichigo chuckled standing upwhile his Beast lowly growled at her tone when she said human. So what?
" I'm 100% sure Senna." He confirmed. Uruyu spoke up, " you know this will cause shock."
" So be it." Ichigo shrugged his shoulders, " I don't care. She is mine. "
" And you killed Grimmjow." Uruyu pointed out, " The army won't forgive you so easily."
Ichigo's Beast growled loudly now, the scene flash-backing in his mind, " They can challenge me then. I'll kill every single one." No
Uruyu simply rolled his eyes, "Calm down. Now, what's the next step?"
" What else? She will be my mate. Prepare the ceremony." Ichigo ordered. He turned to Senna again, sadness in his eyes, " I will make sure you get home safely. Again I am truly sorry."
Senna smiled sincerely at her King. " No need Ichigo. I hope she brings you much happiness." She bowed. " Please keep in touch."
Orihime walked Senna out his office and escorted her to her transportation.
Ichigo watched her leave and sighed loudly when she was out of sight. " Man. I do feel awful."
Uruyu placed his hand on his shoulder for comfort, " It had to be done. Now, where is she?"
"In my chambers. The maids should be dressing her now."
" Are you ready? You know this will bring a new era to our world." Uruyu smirked.
" I'm ready."
Rukia jumped at the sound of the bedroom being opened. Three young maids walked in with products in their hands.
They bowed before her and then proceeded to help her off the bed. Rukia could tell they were human.
" What is going on?" She asked.
The girls giggled and shook their heads. One of the girls spoke up, " His Majesty simply told us to help bathe you and dress you for dinner."
Rukia was even more confused. Why was she being treated this way?
The maids lead her to a big bathroom with an elegant shower and bathtub in it. She had only cleaned these bathrooms before, never used one.
One of the maids encouraged her to take off her clothes, "Sorry, please don't be shy. We are human as well as you are."
Rukia nodded confidently and removed her clothes, she could see her reflection in the huge mirror before her. She gasped at what she saw.
The bruises and cuts of years of work were no longer there. Her skin was smooth and pale, her curves beautifully filled. There was no sign of her ever being mal-nourished.
Her face was no longer sickly, like she hadn't slept in days. Her cheeks pink, her lips full and her eyes bright. What had happened to her?
She observed the maids then, they didn't even look like what she was used to human maids looking like usually.
One of the maids noticed the shock in her face, "We are treated fairly here, our King is a fair King." She explained.
They hurried her into the bathrub and washed her body and hair. " When was the last time you bathed?" One of the maids asked.
" I don't remember." Rukia answered truthfully. Her body felt so nice and relaxed, she wanted to stay in the bathtub forever.
They pouted and shook their heads, "They should be ashamed."
After bathing and drying her, they lead her back to the room where a beautiful purple gown was laying on the bed for her.
They helped her get in , applied some make up and tied her hair back with some of her hair falling around her face.
" Ta-da!" They excitedly giggled and showed her , her reflection in the bedroom mirror.
Rukia stared at the girl before her. Was this really her? She didn't recognize herself. She moved her hand, the reflection following her movements. It was her.
The two of the maids hurriedly ran out the room while one stayed behind. She sighed loudly, " Ugh, You're so lucky to dine with his Majesty."
Rukia was still confused, why was she so special?
"You're the first human to ever dine with a King." She continued, "You're very beautiful, are you a witch?"
"Dana-chan!" One of the maids came back in, "Shut that mouth of yours and let's go. His Majesty is coming."
The girl, Dana-chan , squeaked and hurried out the room, leaving Rukia alone.
She could feel the fear setting in, what the hell was going on? Why was she dining with the King? No, she shouldn't be afraid. They loved the fear.
The King walked in and Rukia really took a look at him. He was tall and broad like most Beasts, his hair coming to his neck and his bangs hanging loosely around his eyes.
His lips full, cheekbones strong, his nose a slight crook in it but what captivated her the most was his eyes. They were amber and held softness to them. It gave her shivers.
Rukia had never been attracted to a man. Let alone a Beast but here she was, her traitorous mind wondering how a Beast could look so handsome.
Ichigo felt the air leave his lungs, his mate, his Rukia looked so beautiful standing there. She was cleaned up and dressed and he could take her right then and there.
She was tiny but curvy in every right place. Her eyes were sad and he wished he could take it away. She watched him as he watched her. Could she feel it?
He extended his hand out to her, her immediately taking it. "Join me." He said and lead her out the room , guiding her to the dining area.
He wrapped his hands around her waist, pulling her along to walk beside him. As they walked, several humans bowed to them.
Rukia felt so out of place having her fellow humans bow to her like she was one of the Beasts.
They entered the dining area where several butlers and maids waited for their orders.
Ichigo reached and pulled a chair out and guided her to sit and sat across from her, still able to reach out and touch her if he wanted too.
A butler handed her a menu, Ichigo eagerly waited for her like a child, watching her.
Rukia looked at the menu, her expression serious. What did he want her to do?
" Well?" He finally asked, "Order what you want."
Rukia felt her cheeks flush in embarrassment.
Ichigo noticed her embarrassment, " Please Rukia. Act like I am an old friend, I'd like to get you know you. Don't be shy."
Rukia still did not make a move. She just sat there staring at the menu.
Patience was never a strong trait of Ichigo's and as time ticked, he was seriously getting annoyed.
"Oyi..midget. Order something already."
Rukia suddenly snapped her head up, " What did you call me?"
" Aha! She speaks!" Ichigo clapped mockingly.
As a little girl, she never liked to be called a midget. She was a normal height! The word would trigger her so bad!
" I am not a midget, strawberry.! " The words were out of her mouth before she could stop herself. She gasped and covered her mouth and squeezed her eyes shut waiting for the impact.
Which never came. Instead she heard laughter.
He was laughing!?
Ichigo had never laughed so hard in his life. Everyone always treated him like the King as soon as he could walk. It was refreshing.
"Strawberry huh?" He raised his eyebrows. "That's funny. But no, it stands for "Best Guardian."
He watched her further her hands down and had the tiniest of smirks.
"Come on though, I'm starving." He urged.
Rukia wanted to feel scared, she wanted to stay silent but something about him was different. He was like no other Beast she had ever encountered.
" I can't read..." she finally mumbled. As a Beast he had sharp hearing of course so she knew he would've heard her.
Ichigo was utterly surprised. What the hell did Yamamato do with his humans?
He sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck, " Fuck, I'm sorry..Shit..Man I'm sorry." He apologized.
He snapped his fingers and ordered them just plain spaghetti and meatballs.
Rukia felt her cheeks flush admitting her embarrassment. They didn't receive schooling or anything. They wore born, taught to walk and talk and straight to serve the Beasts.
"I'll get a teacher for you right away. I'll never let you be embarrassed by that again." He told her.
Rukia decided to finally just ask. " Why are you doing this? I don't get it... you..you Beasts.. you don't treat us like this..ever."
Ichigo's Beast whined softly, he could hear the sadness and sorrow in her tone. He wanted nothing more than to comfort her.
He reached over and grabbed her hand and caressed it softly, "I'm sorry for any mistreatment you have experienced up until now. Look at me Rukia."
Rukia looked up and stared into his smoldering amber eyes, there was... love... in them.
" You are mine...you are my mate." Ichigo declared.
Rukia felt her mouth slightly part in shock..she was... she was...his...his mate?
She shook her head in disbelief.." Ho...w... how...is that...even..possible?!"
Ichigo simply shrugged, " I dunno. But you are. " the food arrived and Rukia was still sitting in shock.
"Eat." He commanded.
Rukia still in shock she felt like she was going to have a panic attack, " Why me? I'm just a human! I'm no match for you!"
Ichigo with his mouth full of spaghetti simply stared at her. He knew she would be shocked. I mean he was until he was beside her on that bed and looking at her sleeping face, he knew there was no mistake.
" Maybe it's up to us to change this world. I have never viewed humans as animals. My ancestors came and conquered. I didn't choose that. I never agreed to it." He grabbed both her hands this time.
" Accept me. You feel it don't you? You're not afraid. I know you're not." Ichigo kissed her hands softly.
Rukia would be lying if she said she was afraid. From the moment she locked eyes with him, she felt a pull towards him. Deep down she knew he was true to his words.
He let go of her hands and continued to eat, pushing her plate towards her. " Eat." He commanded again.
This time she did as told and she moaned in delight. She had never ate spaghetti before and it was heaven in her mouth.
Ichigo felt his eye twitch, hearing her moan in delight was exciting his Beast a little much. He figured this maybe her first time eating spaghetti. Which made him ask a certain question.
" Are you a virgin?"
Rukia choked mid swallow hearing him ask such a question, " excuse me"? She coughed.
" whoever it was, he will be killed." He simply declared as if saying the sky was blue.
" That's crazy! And it will be no one because I fortunately have never been touched in that..that way." She blushed.
Ichigo smirked lightly towards her, " That's what I like to hear."
Rukia rolled her eyes at him and continued to finish her meal. " I'm sure you aren't."
" Why? Because I'm a King? Or a Beast?" He chuckled.
"Both" she mumbled, why was she feeling jealousy? What's wrong with her! She barely knows him!
Ichigo laughed out loud and shook his head in disbelief, "I'm not your average King, can't you tell by now? I am actually, I was waiting for my mate."
Rukia was genuinely surprised at his answer and then it dawned on her.. she was originally sent here for His wedding! " Oh no..." she whispered.
Ichigo figured she just put 2 and 2 together. " Don't worry, my ex queen to be knows and left on good terms. She will visit when we are wed."
Rukia sat there in stunned silence again, wed? Was she really going to marry this Beast? Then again, what choice did she have?
The maids came and took their plates after they were done, Ichigo stood and walked to her and extended his hand out again, " Come, let's take a walk in the garden."
Again, he held her by the waist and walked her beside him, people passing by them, bowing to them showing their respect.
They reached the garden and Rukia was in awe. The garden was beautiful. Flowers and roses bloomed and light's dangled from above, illuminating it.
Ichigo stared at her in awe. She was truly beautiful. He wanted to grab her and taste her lips.
"Tell me about yourself Rukia. I want to know everything." Ichigo held her hand as they walked.
Although Rukia was still uncertain, she could somehow feel their connection. It was a surreal feeling for her.
Rukia began with her childhood, growing up as a slave and the every day life she lived. At some parts, Ichigo would squeeze her hand in either anger or sympathy.
At the end of her life story, Ichigo got on his knees and bowed before her, "I'm sorry Rukia. I truly wished I were to have visited sooner and then I would've met you sooner."
Rukia quickly got on her knees too, " Your Majesty! Please don't bow for me."
Ichigo rolled his eyes, " Don't call me that. Call me Ichigo. I never liked formalities. They're stupid."
She couldn't help but giggle at him, he certainly was not like any Beast she ever met.
" Whats so funny?" He teased.
" Nothing strawberry, nothing." She teased had never felt this way before. The more time she spent with him, the more her heart was opening to him.
Ichigo inched closer to her, his eyes on her lips. " May i?" He whispered softly.
" I might be bad it..." Rukia sighed. She had never kissed anyone.
" Impossible." He whispered against her lips before fully capturing them.
The next few weeks happened in a daze, Rukia couldn't wrap her mind around it.
Ichigo and her spent every minute together. He sure was an arrogant ass but a softie at heart. She watched him interact with her kind and genuinely saw the appreciation he had for them.
She grew to fully let herself be with him. She'd playfully smack him when he was being stubborn and scold him when he was being childish.
He was almost like a child, having to grow up quickly to take over the Kingdom.
They spent alot of time outside in the gardens, walking and talking, running and teasing each other. He would tackle her and take her breath away and not due to the tackling.
The sparks she felt when his lips would devour hers, she never wanted that to go away. When she first heard his Beast, she surprisingly wasn't afraid. She actually would be proud of herself that she could have that power over him.
She met his right hand man Uruyu and his wife Orihime. They were nice and could tell were very fond of each other. Seeing Ichigo be happy made them happy.
They saw how Rukia would set him straight and mock him for it too.
" You will make a great Queen, Rukia." Uruyu said to her one day while eating lunch together with their respective partners.
"Oyi! That's Your Majesty to you 4 eyes." Ichigo pouted jealous.
" Shut up Kurosaki."
Rukia smirked and comforted her jealous king. "Stop being a baby."
Ichigo just pouted away.
"The ceremony is tomorrow, there will most likely be an uproar about it. A human and a Beast. Leave it to you to be different Kurosaki " Uruyu chuckled.
"Yeah? Well they'll get over it. Change is good." Ichigo said confidently. "
Although Rukia could feel her heart beat faster at the thought of the other Beasts wanting to hurt Ichigo, she was quite confident he could take them on.
She watched him train a couple of evenings and was amazed at his strength. He certainly was no normal Beast.
Tomorrow finally came, Rukia was to be announced to the entire Kingdom of Karakura as Ichigo's fated mated and Queen.
Nervousness didn't even begin to describe what she felt. Again she looked in the mirror and didn't recognize herself.
She wore a white V-neck long corset mermaid dress that flowed over the floor. Her hair had been pinned up in a bun that sat on her head with curls flowing.
The young maids from the first night giggled and were in awe of her. " I can't believe you're going to be our Queen! You look so beautiful Your Majesty." Dana-chan gushed.
"Dana-chan!" The other maid scolded, " Shh! No one knows! "
Dana-chan pouted and rolled her eyes, " Its just us in the room sheesh."
A knock at the door made them all jump.
Uruyu made his way in. " I am your escort Miss Rukia." Rukia shook her head, " Did Ichigo make you call me that?"
He rolled his eyes in conformation.
Rukia took a deep breath, it was now or never. She walked with Uruyu to the grand hall.
She heard a booming voice just outside the doors, " And now presenting your future Queen, Queen Rukia!" The doors opened wide.
Loud gasps and shocks were heard as she walked down with Uruyu but in that moment she couldn't care less.
Ichigo was waiting for her, he stared at her with so much love in his eyes. He extended his hand out to her like he had many times.
Rukia took it and tearfully smiled. Was this real?
"She's a human!" A woman shouted. Rukia recognized her from when she first arrived, Soi-fon.
That brought alot of noise in the room, everyone expressing their concern. Ichigo squeezed Rukia's hand in reassurance.
"Silence!" His Beast roared. Which everyone went quiet immediately.
" Do not forget who your King is. She is my fated mate. She is mine. Respect her. If you do not wish too then die right now." Ichigo growled.
No one dared to move or utter a sound now understanding why he killed Grimmjow so quickly. A Beast's mate was sacred.
Without another interruption, they were wed. They genuinely received claps and cheers. Most of his people did in fact love their King and saw how his smile reached his eyes.
Ichigo carried Rukia bridal style and hurried to the honeymoon suite. He couldn't wait to make her his. His Beast growling in lust.
Once they were mated spiritually, physically and lawfully, no one would be able to break them apart. A new era was coming. Ichigo always felt that the humans deserved better in this new world.
Now with Rukia as his mate, it was destiny.
He could tell she was trying not to be scared, not to act nervous. He knew she was a virgin. But Rukia being Rukia, she acted like she did know what to do. He chuckled.
Rukia felt the butterflies in her stomach, she never had been with a man. Ever. Never And now she was expected to fill full her marriage duty.
Ichigo set her down softly on the bed, his arms still wrapped around her. "God you're so beautiful." He mumbled against her neck
Chills filled her body, he was so handsome, she couldn't believe he was hers.
He laid her down, hovering over her, locking eyes with each other. " I can wait Rukia. I know you've never been with a man."
Rukia crossed her arms over her chest, pouting stubbornly. " What? You think I can't handle you?"
Ichigo chuckled softly and roughly cupped her breast, prompting a yelp from his wife. " Can you?" He teased.
Rukia stared into his lovely amber eyes and knew that she could trust him with her life. She teasingly thrusted her hips upward, meeting his middle. " I can." She whispered.
Ichigo couldn't wait any longer and captured her lips, his Beast growled lowly.
He was careful with her and rough when he had to be. Her pants and moans driving him insane.
She was so beautiful, her soft white skin glistening with sweat. They made passionate love all night, Rukia proving Ichigo wrong. She sure did take all of him.
Rukia crossed her arms and tapped her foot impatiently against the floor. "Kenichi!" She yelled. "Come here, now!"
Her 5 year old black haired, amber eyed son tumbled towards her. "Yes , mama!" He smiled sheepishly.
Ichigo walked in just in time, planting a soft kiss on his pregnant wife's lips and rubbing her growing belly.
The world had in-fact changed, in Ichigo's kingdom at least. There were towns now were humans could reside as they wished. Some coming to the castle to earn a living and some continuing to live in the castle.
His kingdom was the most powerful in the land, many humans declaring their loyalty to him. They heard of the Beast king with the human mate.
Although many thought that his kingdom would fail and be conquered, it was quite the opposite.
Most of Old man Yamamato's humans pled and moved here, Rukia being overjoyed that Ichigo's kingdom defended them and she was able to reunite with Momo & Hanataro.
Rukia smiled at the scene before her. The sun was setting and she could see Ichigo goofing around with Kenichi. She never thought she would ever experience another life than the one she lived 5 years ago.
She was glad she was chosen as the strawberry's mate.