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"People have hope, because they cannot see death standing behind them."
Tite Kubo, Volume 2
There was no realm that hadn't been untouched by Aizen's grandiose maneuverings to impose himself as the supreme ruler of the universe. The Royal Realm had lost its Royal Guards and the Soul King himself. The Soul Society, Rukongai and Seireitei alike, had suffered great losses. Many Human lives had perished in Karakura and the surrounding towns. Aizen's siege had demonstrated that the Gotei 13 were clueless as to how much he had changed Hueco Mundo's make up with the Hōgyoku. There were reports that quite a few Arrancars and other higher-level Hollows had managed to flee to Hueco Mundo. The unknown number concerned the Gotei 13 given that they currently weren't prepared to deal with such powerful Hollows that were normally so few.
Aizen had succeeded in upending the status quo, and it was all thanks to him.
He was the one that had created the tool that facilitated his ambitions.
His consolation was that that very tool had stabilized the universe and that he had indirectly produced the soldiers that thwarted Aizen.
For many years he had aspired to strengthen Shinigami souls, but he'd never imagined that he would ever find the natural means to produce a soldier that possessed the resiliency and rapid progression of a Hollow. Kurosaki Ichigo had been the unexpected guinea pig that had produced such unbelievable results. He owed the young man he'd inadvertently transformed into a soldier a tremendous debt.
Who would've thought that his leaking Reiryoku would yield Human soldiers with remarkable abilities?
He'd heard a lot about how Reiryoku could affect Humans, but he'd never believed that a Human adolescent could possess a powerful soul imbued with the conviction to reject reality. It was far outside what he or anyone thought was possible. A Human with the ability to manifest Hollow abilities that allowed him to stand toe to toe with Eleventh Division members was also quite astonishing.
Their unexpected abilities had certainly proved helpful in the war against Aizen.
No matter what he did, he could never truly repay them or the Soul Society.
He'd already spent countless hours doing his best to support the Soul Society to get its bearings back.
Sleepless nights had been his penance every day since Aizen's fateful invasion.
In the immediate aftermath, the precarious state of the balance had required constant supervision for any fluctuations in the balance. Although the Hollows had left the Seireitei, many had remained in Rukongai and needed to be stopped. The Kidō Corps before departing for Karakura to help stave off the realms colliding had sealed off some of the creatures and had to teleport to where they were as soon as they were finished in the World of the Living. They had also had to take care of the remaining creatures still lingering in areas they hadn't reached.
He'd spent hours monitoring the critical areas in Rukongai and devising a plan to help bring back the survivors, including those that the system had potentially overlooked. He'd had to redirect the surviving Fourth Division members, including Yamada Hanatarō who had had remained in the artificial Karakura with the injured Seventh Division Shinigami, to meet up with any surviving Shinigami and to verify the status of the ill in their area.
Thankfully, the survivors managed to come back safely. They had all been tested for the virus prior to entering the Seireitei.
He'd been closely examining the data concerning the virus and his cure in Rukongai since then. It was going to be a while before they could determine whether Rukongai was truly free of the virus that had been unleashed there but so far things looked okay though the damage had been done.
Every day since the fighting had stopped felt like a blur. He'd never been so occupied with one thing or another. There seemed to be an endless number of things to tackle.
Recently, he'd been working on potentially replicating the Sekkiseki stone since the Shakonmaku had shattered and the Seireitei didn't have that much of the rare stone. The Soul Society had been relying on the Kidō Corps along with Tessai to keep the Seireitei protected from any unexpected Hollow attacks with a powerful Kidō barrier.
The Seireitei's longstanding safety had been shattered thanks to Aizen enhancing the attacking Hollows. He suspected the density of their attacks must've been altered by the Hōgyoku so that not even the Shakonmaku could constantly repel them without imploding at some point.
He hoped to restore the Seireitei's security soon.
The Soul Society was nowhere near where it should be, but it was on the mend.
"Urahara-san, Kurosaki Ichigo and Inoue Orihime are ready to leave the Soul Society." Akon's voice intruded his thoughts.
"Is that so? Please make sure that Kurosaki-san's Reiryoku is sealed. I believe he no longer has his badge."
"Yes, Sir."
Traipsing alongside Ichigo as he escorted her to her apartment, Orihime felt a heavy knot swelling in her throat and chest. She'd known that Karakura would be in a disarrayed state just like the Soul Society, but the knowledge hadn't helped quell the painful emotions that seeing the earthquake ridden town had evoked in her.
She truly was grateful that Kurosaki Ichigo had insisted on accompanying her to her house, but this was far from the gallant display of chivalry she had envisioned so many times of the day the boy she liked would finally walk her home. Never in her wildest dreams had she ever imagined that it would be under these somber circumstances.
It truly was very kind of him.
It was the first time he had returned to Karakura since he'd left it so many months ago.
He hadn't said much but she knew that it was painful for him to see his hometown in such a state, especially because she knew he felt responsible for not preventing it. She knew he had really believed he could prevent Karakura's terrible fate. Merely maintaining its existence had never been part of his aspirations.
They arrived at her apartment door, and she unlocked the door after she found her spare key hidden underneath a plant (she'd lost her original key at some point in Hueco Mundo). Ichigo entered the dark apartment and carefully navigated the fallen items scattered around her place. Her sofa had flipped over along with her storage dresser. At the center of her living room, her media table had fallen forward, and her television had crashed into the ground. The moonlight streaming through her window illuminated the broken glass littering the floor.
Orihime suddenly hurried past Ichigo and carefully fished out the only item that really mattered to her.
The glass protecting the beloved image of her deceased brother was shattered but at least his likeness was still intact.
A relieved but melancholic smile appeared on her face.
"I'll have to buy a new frame," she murmured.
"You'll have to buy a lot more than that," Ichigo pointed out quietly.
"I'm sorry about your apartment, Inoue." There was a beat. "Seems like your apartments can't catch a break. I wrecked the other one myself when I tried to stop…your brother."
"Don't worry about it, Kurosaki-kun. It was just a wall. You saved the soul of the most important person to me and for that I'm very grateful. Come to think of it, I never did get a chance to thank you."
"There's no need to…You're the one that made your brother realize it was better to pass on." Ichigo furrowed his brow. "If it weren't for Rukia, you would've died. I should've done a better job at protecting you. You know, Inoue, I never meant to turn your life upside down by making you spiritually aware. If I'd been able to, I would've spared you getting caught up in this war."
"I-It's okay, Kurosaki-kun. I'm glad to have been able to use my power to help you…and everyone…It's all I ever wanted to do since I learned I had developed these powers."
"Thanks, Inoue, for everything," he said earnestly.
"Everything? I didn't really do much…"
"Are you kidding, Inoue? Without you, there's no way any of us would be standing right now. We all owe you so much. You've been amazing throughout this war."
"I just wanted to do my best. I didn't want to be a burden to you…"
"You've never been a burden, Inoue. You've always been helpful in your own way," he assured her. "Rukia wouldn't be here without you. Remember, you're the one who helped me find my resolve to rescue her," he pointed out with a grateful smile. "When I defeated Byakuya, you said you weren't much help and that you felt bad that you couldn't protect me, but Chado told me it was thanks to you that he and the others were freed from jail. It's pretty amazing you got Kenpachi to be on our side…"
"I didn't actually convince him…he just wanted to find you…"
"You still played a role in finding them. There's no way he would've found them himself. You rode around on his back to direct him, right? You know, Inoue, you're too modest for your own good."
Orihime looked mildly sheepish.
"I knew you were smart though a bit out there, but I never imagined that you'd be brave enough to deal with Kenpachi. I can see why Tatsuki considers you her best friend. You're a lot tougher than you look and very loyal. I never imagined that you'd gone willingly with Aizen to spare us from getting hurt. I had assumed you were just kidnapped though I was confused that you had somehow managed to heal me. Putting yourself on the line for everyone's sake that took a lot of guts. You're one of the most selfless people I've ever met. You've done way more for me than I've done for you."
"T-That's not true…"
"It is…I failed at keeping my promise. I remember now what happened against Ulquiorra…I didn't just hurt Ishida. I nearly got you killed when I lost control of my Hollow. You, on the other hand, came through when I needed help the most."
He gazed at her intently.
"I-I did?" Orihime stammered, her cheeks growing rosy.
She could feel her heart jackhammering in her chest. She couldn't believe he was speaking so highly of her let alone gazing at her with such an intense look. His sincere yet earnest words engendered butterflies in her stomach.
"Of course. My powers were useless against Aizen. There's no way I could've defeated Aizen without you. I would've died," Ichigo said matter of fact.
Orihime gazed at him for a moment, recalling the terrible scene of a bloodied Rukia and Ganju that had met her eyes when she had entered the Royal Palace and Ichigo's own wounded form restrained before Aizen and how Uryū had prevented him from landing a killing blow.
There was no doubt that Aizen's immortality would've meant that he would've died.
A cold shiver ran up her spine at the thought that he'd been on the verge of dying at that moment.
She was grateful her power had played a role in preserving his life. She'd been devastated to learn that he'd been dead all this time. All she had ever wanted to do was protect him.
It was a marvel that he was standing before her even if he was a spirit.
When she had left for Hueco Mundo, she had braced herself for the possibility of her own death.
This is why she had been tempted to kiss him even if he had been unconscious. In the end, all she could manage was a confession of sorts about her feelings. She had revealed to him that she wanted to fall in love with the same person in all her lifetimes, but she hadn't been able to voice that it was him whom she desired to be with.
She had wished that perhaps in another lifetime she would get that chance to tell him, but she'd never imagined she'd ever have him in front of her again in this one let alone in her apartment acknowledging all the things she'd done for him. It was as though fate was giving her a chance to finally do a proper confession rather than a list of her lamentations.
A flicker of indecision appeared in her eyes before it was overshadowed by determination.
"K-Kurosaki-kun, t-there's something I have to tell you…"
"What is it?'
She took a deep breath and blurted out. "I-I care about you, Kurosaki-kun."
He stared at her for a moment. "I care about you, too, Inoue."
She looked surprised. "Really?"
"Yeah, you're a good friend."
"A good friend?" Her countenance became subdued.
"What, is that not good enough?" Ichigo joked, confusion shining in his eyes. "You're a great friend, Inoue." He smiled reassuringly.
Orihime shook her head. "N-No, it's just I meant you're more than a friend to me…"
Ichigo stared at her in surprise and his cheeks became warm.
All this time he had assumed Inoue Orihime's random blushing and desire to help him was just due to her modest, sympathetic nature. Her idiosyncrasies had always made it hard for him to discern through her mental processes, but it had never occurred to him that she could possibly harbor a crush on him. Her kindheartedness was remarkable. She cared for enemies and friends alike. Never had it crossed his mind that something else fueled her actions.
Unsure of what to say, Ichigo stayed quiet and glanced around the room.
He moved a hand towards the back of his head and nervously scratched it as he racked his brains for how to respond. He had no desire to hurt her feelings. She was a wonderful friend, but he had never thought of her as anything but.
Keigo and Mizuiro had not wasted any time informing him that she was the most beautiful girl in their class when he had befriended them. He couldn't say he'd been oblivious to her beauty but at the same time it had never mattered to him. Unlike, Keigo and Mizuiro, dating was not something he cared about.
He'd initially just seen her as a rather unusual, clumsy girl that had somehow befriended Tatsuki, her polar opposite. When Inoue had shared with him the story about her hairpins, he'd found that her bubbly personality was the most remarkable thing about her given the loss she had suffered three years ago. He'd realized then that she possessed a lot of inner strength to be able to smile so much.
He'd been surprised that she didn't seem to remember him though at the same time he'd been relieved. He hadn't wanted to be a reminder of her loss. He also hadn't wanted her to resent him for his father's inability to save her brother in case she harbored feelings of resentment.
Her brother's death was one of the worst things he'd ever witnessed at his dad's clinic. He recalled feeling awful that his old man hadn't been able to save her sibling. He supposed it was because it hit close to home. He'd been somewhat gratified that as a Shinigami he'd allowed her to get closure with her brother though she wouldn't know it. He'd been stunned when he found she could remember it but hadn't bothered to ask him about his Shinigami life until Rukia disappeared. She'd been very curious prior to getting her memory wiped.
Perhaps, it was his Shinigami self that had attracted her. He wasn't so sure that a girl like her would ever be interested in a guy like him. His negative reputation wasn't something he ever thought girls would find attractive. Hell, he hadn't been so sure he'd be able to make friends.
He couldn't help but feel as though he'd unintentionally brought more pain to her life due to involving her in the spiritual world. She had always repelled his pain with her abilities, but he hated that he couldn't do that same. He didn't want to break her heart.
How could he lessen the blow?
It was a shame he lacked Mizuiro's charm. That boy could easily come up with a suave rejection that wouldn't earn him any hatred. He'd seen him do it countless times as he rejected girls that weren't his preferred type. Alas, his attempt was nowhere near as good as his.
"I-I'm flattered…but…I don't see you that way…Inoue…I'm sorry."
"I-I understand, Kurosaki-kun. I-I just needed to tell you…I never got a chance to tell you before," she said softly.
Orihime had known since learning that he was technically dead that her chances with him were slim but for the briefest of moments she had allowed herself to hope that there was a possibility he would want to be with her. She supposed it was a silly dream. Urahara Kisuke had made it clear it was illegal for Humans and Shinigami to inhabit the same world. However, she had believed Kurosaki-kun would've been willing to fight for her if he felt something for her. His father had somehow married a Human after all. In her mind, it would've been a rather romantic tale…but she supposed realistically Ichigo could not evade the Soul Society forever. The only reason his father hadn't been discovered was likely due to Urahara Kisuke himself.
Even if she were dead, she now understood that Ichigo could only offer her friendship.
It was a bittersweet realization.
Friendship was something she had coveted from him though she had never imagined it would be under these circumstances.
She had wanted to believe that Ichigo could return to living a normal Human life despite the growing evidence he wasn't one anymore.
Kuchiki Rukia hadn't just changed his world; she had led him to his true path.
She could see now that Kurosaki-kun was meant to be a Shinigami.
She'd witnessed firsthand how he had seemed so at ease training with Kuchiki-san. How natural it had seemed for him to wield his sword and how much he'd seemed to be enjoying it. He'd seemed more talented than Kuchiki-san. Now he would get a chance to fulfill his potential now that he would remain in the Soul Society.
He would also be able to train with Kuchiki-san on a regular basis.
She'd noticed that Kurosaki-kun and Kuchiki-san had grown closer though to what extent she hadn't been sure. She'd had this feeling that things were different somehow though she couldn't explain why exactly. She had hoped it was simply comradery between soldiers due to their training sessions, but maybe that wasn't the case….
Maybe this was why Ichigo couldn't see her as more than a friend.
Time would tell if anything would happen between them now that they were going to live in the same world.
No matter what happened she just wanted both to be happy.
Though she could not be part of their world, her heart would always be connected to them.
She supposed she'd known deep down that Kurosaki-kun's friendship would have to be enough for her.
Surviving Hueco Mundo had given her the hope that she could rectify her weakness and prove to Kuroksai-kun that she could assist him. Her deepest wish had been that it would make such a deep impression on him that it could potentially spark interest in him, but upon realizing he had become a spirit, she knew her chances had become nearly nonexistent.
She truly was glad that she had managed to prove herself useful to him. It was something that she was always going to treasure.
"Kurosaki-kun, your friendship is more than enough," Orihime declared in a rush, startling Ichigo. "I know you're a Shinigami and all, but it'd be nice if you'd come visit whenever you could…I'd love to hear any news about Tatsuki-chan or my brother if you ever come across them…"
"I'd like that, too." Ichigo smiled, relief shining in his eyes.
"Inoue, as your friend, I can't let you stay here. You should stay with my dad…He temporarily got a place in Naruki City. He wanted to wait until Karakura was in a better state to come back."
"Oh no, I couldn't do that. I can stay one night here. I'm going to call my aunt and then I'll…." she trailed off as her senses tingled.
"Hollows," Ichigo noted. "I'll take care of them quick."
He ran off before she could she say anything, disappearing through her walls in an instant.
Ichigo could sense several Hollows in the distance. His Zanpakutō was already in his right hand. The creatures' roars were getting louder. He rounded the corner, muscles ready to spring into action but what met his eyes caused him to skid to a halt.
"What the…"
Various small pale blue arrows pinned three Hollows in their respective places. One was neatly restrained against a building while two others were held in place against some trees. Ichigo was amazed at the precision of the thin arrows puncturing the Hollows' skin. They seemed threaded in rather than speared through. Despite the creatures' efforts to dislodge them, they remained in place.
"You're slow," noted a familiar voice above him. "As Shinigami usually are."
"Ishida?" Ichigo stared at him in surprise as he glanced up.
The Quincy dropped down elegantly from his perch on the roof of the nearest building.
"I could've exterminated these Hollows three times over before you showed up."
Ichigo frowned slightly. "Why didn't you?"
"My only interest is to protect people from Hollows, not upset the balance. Since the Shinigami's numbers have dwindled due to the war, my father has been willing to teach me the defensive techniques my grandfather never got a chance to teach me. I've been focusing on how to delay and capture Hollows."
"Is that so? Does this mean he's allowing you to work with Shinigami?"
"He's not allowing me to do anything. It's my choice to do what I want with my power." Uryū gazed at him for a moment. "Kurosaki, I have a proposition for you and the Shinigami. Karakura no longer has an assigned Shinigami, but I can be the first line of defense against Hollows in Karakura. I'll delay or capture them so that the Shinigami can take care of them. Things have been relatively quiet since the earthquake but eventually Hollows will show up more as things normalize. These Hollows must've been drawn to you and Inoue-san."
"I'll pass the message along. We could use the help. I doubt the Shinigami would refuse the help even if it's from a Quincy. If it weren't for you, Aizen wouldn't have been stopped after all."
Uryū said nothing for a long moment.
"I don't know if that's enough for the Shinigami but since you're the one who killed Aizen, they'll probably be more willing to hear you out. You should give them the assurance that you'd kill me as well if I ever endanger the balance. Afterall, didn't you say you were going to kick my butt for endangering Karakura before?"
Ichigo smirked. "That's right. I still you owe that ass kicking, and I will take you down if you risk the balance. Ishida, you better not make me regret talking to the Shinigami on your behalf." His eyes flashed with a warning glare.
"Kurosaki, if I ever betray my grandfather's ideals again, I'll hold you to taking me out." Uryū's lips twitched into a solemn grin.
"So, is this your weird way of saying we're friends now?"
Uryū adjusted his spectacles. The lens flashed opaque, and he said coolly. "Not at all. It simply means we're allies."
Ichigo half smiled. "Close enough."
He leapt towards the Hollows and swiftly split their heads.
"Thanks for the assist, Ishida," Ichigo said, reappearing next to the Quincy after finishing his work.
"Don't mention it."
There was a beat. "How is Inoue-san's home? Is it habitable?"
"It's livable, but it's a mess. I was trying to convince her to stay with my dad and my little sisters at least for tonight before the Hollows showed up."
"I see. Well, if she'd prefer to stay at a hotel, my father could help her. He's set up a relief fund to assist displaced Karakura residents affected by the earthquake. He's even accommodated people who've lost their home at his own residence."
"Is that so? That's very generous of him."
Uryū glanced across the city.
"I suppose for him it is. I never thought his money would be helpful in a spiritually induced catastrophe. My father has always cared more about money than being a Quincy. At least that's what I grew up thinking. He tried to make me believe that it was worthless to be a Quincy so I wouldn't become one, but I could never understand how he could prefer to leave spiritual matters to the Shinigami. I have always felt that I couldn't just stand on the sidelines waiting for the Shinigami to arrive knowing I had the ability to help. Be it spirits or Humans, I wanted to protect anyone that was being hunted by Hollows. Up until he restored my powers, I thought he had gotten rid of his."
"I see. So, he only showed up in the Soul Society because the universe was on the line then?"
"That's right."
"I can see why your dad wouldn't want to be a Quincy and why he also doesn't want you to be one because of what happened to the Quincies. I didn't grow up knowing what Hollows were…It was my dad's way of making sure I lived a normal life but if I had known, I'd feel the same way as you. I've never been the type to sit back if I could help someone."
Uryū furrowed his brow slightly. "Was the first Hollow you saw the one that took your mother's life?" he asked quietly.
"That's right," Ichigo replied after a moment. "I didn't know it at the time…It had the ability to disguise itself as a regular spirit. I was just a kid back then and couldn't tell the difference between spirits and Humans. It had disguised itself as a girl that looked like she was about to off herself in the river. I tried to help her thinking she was a Human. I never actually saw her transform because somehow, I lost consciousness and when I came to I found my mother dead. I had no idea she'd been killed by some kind of monster. I only realized this because I ran into him while burrowing Rukia's powers. I tried to kill him but I…wasn't strong enough. Only managed to drive him away. It was my dad who eventually got him when he returned. He'd managed to recover his powers at that point. He'd been powerless back then…."
"Do you resent your father for not telling you?"
A silence engulfed them.
"I can't blame my dad for not telling me about Hollows. Knowing wouldn't have changed anything. The Hollow hid its nature, and I was just a kid…It should've been a Shinigami or a Quincy that should've stopped him…Found out it was Urahara who drove away the Hollow before it got my soul."
You're a better son than me, Uryū thought solemnly. Even though Ichigo's reasoning was sound, he knew that he would've blamed his father for not telling him about the spiritual world if he'd been in Ichigo's shoes. He'd resented his father's disdain for their Quincy heritage to the point he had moved out on his own. He'd only resumed living with his father recently due to the earthquake. Withholding information was not something he could've tolerated. He would've felt that knowing would've given him a chance to act and would've begrudged his father for it.
The irony was that his knowledge about the spiritual world and training hadn't helped him save his grandfather. Though he had held the Shinigami liable for his death, he'd been ashamed of himself that he hadn't done anything. Deep down he'd always believed that if he had acted, he could've saved him somehow….
The bitter truth was that his aid would've probably resulted in his death as well.
All he could do now was ensure that his master's dream came to fruition.
"It seems both our father's methods were ineffective at keeping us from getting involved with the spiritual world," Uryū said after some time.
"Yeah..."
"Ishida-kun?" Orihime exclaimed when Ichigo and Uryū entered her apartment. "What are you doing here?" She straightened from moving around the debris in her living room.
"I was in the area due to the Hollows when I ran into Kurosaki. I realized he was here because you'd finally returned so I thought I should come say hello."
"I was wondering why Kurosaki-kun was taking so long to take care of the Hollows. Were they really that troublesome?"
"Not at all. I captured them for him."
"Really? Did you father teach you that cool barrier that he used on all those Hollows in Soul Society"
"I'm working on that one. It's complicated."
"I'm sure you'll master it soon." Orihime flashed him an encouraging smile.
"I hope so. It's a very useful barrier to capture a multitude of Hollows. Definitely could use it since the Shinigami's dependability has only worsened due to the war. It would help save lives."
Orihime wrinkled her brows in concern.
"Now that I'm here I could help you out, Ishida-kun."
Uryū and Ichigo stared at her.
"That isn't necessary, Inoue-san. I can manage on my own…"
"I'm sure you could, but I'd like to assist you. We made a good team in Soul Society, didn't we? There's no reason I can't help you here. We're friends, aren't we? I wouldn't want you to get in trouble with Soul Society."
"I've proposed to Kurosaki an alliance with the Soul Society to officially help them. Whether they approve it or not, they shouldn't get upset with me if I'm not destroying Hollows."
Orihime beamed. "Really? That's great. You'll need my help though in case you can't capture all the Hollows, or the Shinigami take too long. I can't just do nothing when I have this power that can help save lives."
Uryū frowned slightly.
Fighting defensively was far more difficult than fighting offensively. It really was a matter of when the Hollows would break free from his entrapments if they were strong enough to do so. The longer the Shinigami took, the higher the possibility of the Hollows breaking free. He'd either be forced to kill them or be killed himself.
He'd witnessed firsthand how fighting defensively could place a Quincy on the brink of death. He understood now that that his grandfather had been doing his best to stall the Hollows rather than fighting to kill. It must've been incredibly taxing on him due to his old age, yet he had been committed to seeing it through.
He was willing to put himself on that same path, but he didn't want Inoue-san to needlessly put herself in danger just because she wanted to assist him.
Inoue-san had seen him struggle as he pushed himself to fight defensively in ways that he had never tried before. He didn't want her to put herself in danger on a regular basis just for his sake. This was her chance to live a peaceful life. She'd already been through enough.
"Inoue-san, if that's how you really feel about it, then I suppose I wouldn't mind you helping. However, that's a conversation for another day. We should focus on where you'll be staying tonight."
"What do you mean? I'm staying here. I know the place's a mess, but it's not that bad…"
"It'd be best for you to clean up properly before moving back in. If you'd like, my father could help you stay at hotel. He's been assisting Karakura residents who've lost their homes. He has a relief fund set up."
"Oh wow, that's really nice of him, but I don't think I need the help…"
"Inoue, we aren't going to let you stay here," Ichigo chimed in.
Orihime raised her eyebrows and pouted slightly.
Although Inoue attempted to continue protesting against leaving her apartment, she ended up accepting Ishida's offer. Ichigo had left shortly afterwards.
Walking through Karakura had felt surreal. The destruction of the artificial Karakura had not truly prepared him for what had transpired in the real one. The less damaged areas were in different stages of restoration, but the hardest hit areas were undoubtedly still years away from being restored. Just like Soul Society, it was gonna take a while for the town to be rebuilt.
He'd heard from Ukitake-san that Don Kanonji had helped save people from Hollows that had overrun the town. Who would've thought he'd be in town to play the hero? The Shinigami that had spotted him had told him to leave the Hollows to him, but he'd been adamant about protecting all the people he could. He was glad to hear that the medium had done some good for the town.
It was a shame that his friends hadn't been saved by him.
Ikkaku had confirmed his fear that his friends, Asano Keigo and Kojima Mizuiro had lost their lives. A part of him had been hopeful that since they lived in Naruki they would be spared, but he'd known that an earthquake meant to destroy a town would likely be enough to affect the surrounding areas as well. The quake had impacted the outskirts of the bordering cities. He'd heard that the Kidō Corps had tried to lessen the damage, but he knew at the end of the day, lives had to be lost for the balance.
How he wished things could've gone differently for Karakura. It was hard to shake off the slew of thoughts…. If he had been in full control of his Hollow and had been able to stop Aizen that day in the artificial Karakura, the war could've been stopped then…. He knew it was futile to think about what he could not change. Changing the past was impossible after all.
All he could do now was attempt to find his friends in Rukongai.
He supposed now it was going to be his turn to befriend them.
It had been quite a surprise that they hadn't minded becoming friends with him and Chado since he knew their reputation preceded them.
After seeing various points in the town, he reached the Karakura cemetery. Rain had soaked him on his last visit but this time a light mist enshrouded him. The pale veil layering the area might've felt eerie to some, but he found it strangely calming. The vague sensation of water droplets caressing him as he traversed the cemetery was far more comforting than hard, pelting rain.
Somehow it was lifting his mood.
He'd never witnessed mist here before (he'd never come early or this late) yet there was something about it that felt oddly familiar though he couldn't quite explain why.
As he tried to recall if he'd ever been somewhere else when it was dark and misty, he felt a twinge of pain. He shook his head, and it was gone as fast as it had come. It was such a weird sensation. For the briefest moments, he thought he saw a flash of orange. His brain must be too overwhelmed with his thoughts.
Realizing that he had arrived at his destination, he came to a standstill.
He stared at his mother's grave. It was mostly intact save for some cracks that lined its surface. He was glad though he supposed the stone would need to be updated anyway. As bizarre as it was his own remains rested below the ground before him.
A part of him didn't want to entertain this uncomfortable truth, but it was the reality. He was no longer alive.
Funny, how it should've been a grave for him and his mother from the start.
Back then, he would've died for someone that hadn't been worth protecting.
His mother's sacrifice had allowed him to die for someone that was worth protecting.
The last time he'd been here he'd only lamented his failure to avenge his mother and hadn't bothered to address her since her soul had been eaten…but now his outlook was different thanks to his father.
"Hello, Okaa…" he said quietly. "It's been a while…So many things have changed since I was last here, but don't worry…we're all okay. I know now why I've always been able to see ghosts …I know who Oyaji really is…He now has his Shinigami powers again. I couldn't save your soul, but he did…I hope you're doing okay whenever you are."
He stared at the grave for a moment, thinking back to his countless treks to the river hoping he'd catch sight of her soul but never did.
He was pleased to know a part of her was out there rather than being completely gone.
"Thank you…for protecting me that night…." he murmured. "I never meant to put you in danger…All I ever wanted to do was to protect you…"
He didn't really recall what had had happened that night, but the images his mind conjured now due to the truth made his blood curl. How scary must it have looked to her to see her son rushing off towards the edge of an overflowing river. His mother must've caught up with him thanks to her adrenaline and longer legs. She must've grabbed him just as Grand Fisher made his move, and he must've thrown her onto the ground. The contact must've knocked him out.
She had unknowingly spared him from losing his soul.
"I'm a Shinigami now like Oyaji…I want to protect people from Hollows with the power I was born with… I don't want to waste the life you gave me…"
A tingle shot up his back as he felt a familiar presence.
He remained facing the tombstone. "Rukia? What are you doing here?"
"I'm sorry…I had wanted to accompany you…but…."
"It's okay, I know you were busy."
"I've come to escort you back since you don't know how to use the Jigokuchō."
"I see. Can you give me a little bit more time?"
Rukia's gaze shifted towards the grave. "Sure."
How strange must it be for Ichigo to be looking at his own grave? She'd never met any Shinigami that knew where their grave was in the Living World.
"I'll let you be," she added, taking a step back.
"Don't go," Ichigo said, surprising her. "C'mere, Rukia."
"I want you to meet someone," Ichigo said when she reached his side. "Okaa…this is Rukia…. she's the one who saved our family when a Hollow attacked us…She's the reason I became a Shinigami…She shared her power with me and got in trouble for it, so I paid her back by saving her with my own power."
For a moment, Rukia felt unsure what to say. "Hello, Kurosaki-san. It's an honor to make your acquaintance." She bowed her head.
"Just so you know, I never asked your son for any help."
"You don't need to tell her that. She knows I got these powers to help others. Whether they want it or not has never factored in my decision to help."
"I suppose she should know how stubborn you are better than anyone. You must've been born stubborn."
Ichigo smiled slightly at this. "You should be grateful she didn't raise me to be ungrateful."
"You're right," Rukia agreed, surprising him. "Thank you, Kurosaki-san, for raising him to be somehow who pays back his debts. I wouldn't be here without him," she said, inclining her head.
"Well, Okaa, Rukia and I must go back to the Soul Society. I'll come visit when I can."
They walked a short distance away and Rukia wordlessly opened the gate to the afterlife.
"Sorry if that was weird, but Oyaji said even though her soul was eaten it still lives on," Ichigo said as they walked through the Dangai.
"It's not weird at all," Rukia replied quietly. "I was taught that the heart of those who pass on live on in those they had a bond with. It technically shouldn't matter whether a physical or spiritual body exists. A person's only truly gone if they never leave their heart in someone else. Your mother's heart has always been within you."
"Who taught you this?" Ichigo pondered softly.
"Kaien-dono."
"Sounds like he was a pretty wise guy."
"Sometimes he was," Rukia said softly. "I'm ashamed that I let myself forget this teaching when I shouldn't have…"
"Seems like you remembered it when you needed to."
They exchanged a look for a moment.
"His heart has always lived on in you whether you remembered or not. I'd like to know more about him. I mean, if you're willing to share."
The sound of their footfalls was the only thing that was audible for a minute.
"Only if you're willing to share about…your mother," she replied.
"Deal."
They shared a faint smile.
A little over three years after the war-December 2004
Renji glanced up at the clear blue sky, mindlessly scratching at his shoulder as he briskly marched towards his destination. The white fabric draped around his shoulders scrunched up slightly with the motion. The sleeveless haori he wore over his Shihakushō was something he still hadn't quite gotten used to even if it'd been a year since he'd started wearing it. He'd known that the Gotei 13's top brass were due for a change but he hadn't figured he'd take part of those changes.
"A fukutaichō couldn't possibly defeat a taichō," Byakuya had told him as a means of encouragement to take on the responsibility of being a taichō due to him possessing Bankai.
Truth is he'd never aspired to reach the top for the sake of merely defeating Kuchiki Byakuya. He'd craved both to prove himself that he was worthy of reuniting with Rukia. Reaching the top of the Gotei 13 had been the only way a commoner like him could be on par with the nobility. Kira had made it clear to him that the Four Great Noble Families would not allow its members to associate with anyone of lesser status than them least of all a commoner. Attaining the Sixth Division vice-captaincy had been a dream come for him since it would allow him a chance to prove himself against Kuchiki Byakuya and to rekindle his relationship with Rukia in one fell swoop, or so he thought.
Aizen's machinations, however, had forced him to face off Kuchiki Byakuya sooner than he had wanted to. His taichō had shown him that he still had a long way to go to be able to defeat him, but he'd at least managed to garner some respect from him. He was certain this was why he had allowed him to interact with Rukia as she recovered her Reiryoku.
He hadn't given up on his dream of growing strong enough to surpass the living legend that was Kuchiki Byakuya since he genuinely wanted to be as strong as him, but the thought that it would take him becoming a taichō had simply never factored in his mind. He had wanted to remain his fukutaichō, but the terrible state of the Gotei 13 had made him accept the offer of captaincy. He knew he had no choice but to push aside his own desires for the sake of the Soul Society.
To a certain degree he'd felt honored that his taichō would be willing to recommend him for the job, but he also felt underserving because he wasn't truly at the right level. He'd been striving to grow strong enough to genuinely merit the title but whether he could surpass Kuchiki Byakuya remained to be seen. It was a goal post that kept him centered. He could not afford to be complacent. No one could.
The Court Guard was not what it was.
He knew feelings of inadequacy were rampant throughout the Gotei 13.
Ikkaku didn't feel worthy of his promotion as taichō of the Eleventh. He didn't want to be considered the new Kenpachi but was ardently training to beef up his skills in hopes of truly deserving the traditional title of the Eleventh Division leader.
He really felt for Ikkaku. Filling the shoes of the Kenpachi was a massive thing. He sure as hell didn't feel like he could adequately replace Komamura-taichō as he was nowhere as strong, as loyal, or as courageous as him. He certainly felt it was rather ironic that he'd been placed in the division that valued courageous soldiers. He couldn't help but see himself as a coward still despite his attempts to make up for his past cowardice. He supposed it was another thing he had to work on.
Iba-san had always had a strong sense of determination and ambition and had never been afraid to go for what he wanted. He better embodied the Seventh Division's motif than him. He would've been a better candidate than him in that sense.
He probably felt that he was.
He couldn't blame him.
Poor Iba-san was stuck kicking his behind whenever he screwed up. Case in point today, he had taken a nap after training and had overslept a bit which was why they were rushing right now. He probably never had to do this for Komamura-taichō.
Iba-san would've probably preferred carrying on as an interim taichō until he obtained Bankai unlike Kira and Hisagi-san. The latter felt like they weren't taichō material but as far as he was concerned, they had more potential as true leaders than their traitorous leaders. They were doing the best they could to work on achieving Bankai to eventually become full-fledged taichō.
Hinamori had also been keenly honing her skills alongside Hitsugaya-taichō to gain strength. He was glad to see the spark in her gaze again despite the pain of Aizen's betrayal. He knew Aizen-taichō had meant a lot to her. It was nice to see her moving forward.
Rukia had likewise taken upon herself to train diligently. He had taken part in building her strength whenever he could. It was the main way they could spend time with each other. She'd grown a lot since he had first trained with her as she recovered her strength after Aizen's defection. He'd seen then that her skills were seated level. He'd always questioned why Rukia had never advanced in her Shinigami career since he had figured the Kuchiki Clan had chosen for her skills.
Seeing that she was training so hard had made him wonder if she was trying to attain a rank. Rukia revealed to him that Byakuya had held her from advancing but now he would no longer do so, and she wanted to merit the promotion. He never would have thought Byakuya would go to such lengths to protect the sibling of his deceased wife.
Rukia had initially been promoted to a sixth seat sometime after the war. When Ukitake had eventually selected her as the Thirteenth Division fukutaichō, she'd been hesitant about taking the position. He could tell she felt underserving despite giving her the reassurance that she deserved it.
To be honest, he had a feeling it was Ichigo that had ultimately swayed her to accept.
He didn't know the specifics, but he knew she spent most of her time with him. She'd been primarily training with him and showing him the ins and outs of the Soul Society. Somehow, he must've gotten her to accept Ukitake's offer.
She'd been training incessantly to be the best fukutaichō she could be since she'd been promoted a few months ago. The fact that she was the acting taichō of her division was another load of pressure on her shoulders.
The Soul Society was in a strange state but at least it was progressing.
The Central 46 had finally been reformed six months after the war and it took them six more months to sift through the all the information presented to them regarding Aizen's maneuverings. They permitted the reinstatement of Urahara Kisuke and Shihōin Yoruichi to their former positions. Tsukabishi Tessai, the former taichō for the Kidō Corps, became a teacher at the Academy.
Unohana-taichō relinquished her temporary role of sōtaichō as she needed to focus exclusively on the Fourth Division and Ukitake-taichō was selected as Kyōraku-taichō could not be bothered.
Kurosaki Isshin, the predecessor of Hitsugaya Tōshirō, had been pardoned of his supposed crimes and had been offered the captaincy of the Fourth to attempt to keep Unohana as the sōtaichō but had declined it, citing that he needed to be close to his daughters. Surprisingly the Central 46 granted him permission to remain the World of the Living until his daughters were of age to be on their own. He was technically on a yearslong assignment in the World of the Living serving under his old division, the Tenth Division. He supposed he had his renewed noble status to thank for that along with the fact that the Gotei 13 needed whatever soldiers they could get.
He couldn't believe that Ichigo had been born to a true blooded Shinigami and a Human woman. He'd craved to know how Urahara Kisuke had managed to elevate Ichigo's skills in such a short amount of time, but he'd never fathomed that he was inherently talented due to his bloodline. He had believed Urahara had some sort of secret training techniques. Learning that Ichigo possessed a Hollow within him had made him realize that Urahara had strengthened him artificially.
He hadn't bothered asking Ichigo any questions because he was grateful that he'd been strong enough to stop Rukia's execution, but he had found the concept of Ichigo possessing a Hollow rather disquieting. He was surprised that Urahara would resort to such a method, but he had been curious to get answers about it if he could. He hadn't expected the man to put him to work for the answers though.
The formerly exiled Shinigami had offered him the answers he owed him sometime after the war, but he had dismissed him because he had pieced enough to know why Ichigo had surpassed him so rapidly.
Ichigo had unlocked his own power due to leaving his Human life behind. He had somehow avoided becoming a Hollow and had instead become a Shinigami-Hollow hybrid.
His naturally large reserve of Reiryoku with his innate capacity for learning paired with Hollow abilities had allowed him to speedrun his strength.
Ichigo's growth had been instinctive mirroring how a Hollow became powerful.
Even prodigy Shinigami couldn't grow at such an accelerated rate.
There was no doubt Ichigo's growth was record-breaking.
No wonder Urahara had gone this route with him.
Would it have worked if Ichigo hadn't technically carried noble blood in his veins?
Somehow, he doubted it.
Whether he liked it or not, Ichigo was yet again proof that those hailing from the nobility were inherently stronger than those from Rukongai. He had wanted to believe Urahara's training had merely strengthened him, but the reality was that Ichigo was innately different from every other Shinigami.
He was truly in a class of his own.
Ichigo had been hailed a hero due to ending the war, but the boy couldn't care less. He'd brushed off any comments of the sort. Power and status meant nothing to him if it wasn't for the sake of protecting others. He'd happily carried on as a substitute Shinigami albeit this time as an officially recognized substitute Shinigami for all the divisions in the Gotei 13. Any other Shinigami would've readily jumped at the chance of being promoted and would've enjoyed the attention, but not Ichigo. He'd been eager to pick up the slack for the Gotei 13's depleted personnel.
Sado had eventually joined him in his work. The former Human with strange abilities had developed his own Shinigami powers in the afterlife. His soul had become a normal soul upon death. He'd engaged in training with Urahara to increase his Reiryoku and he harnessed his Shinigami abilities. Sado was a remarkable example of someone that had benefited from Urahara's tutelage. His progress was nowhere near Ichigo level, but it was lot faster than that of the average Academy recruit. He supposed it was because he already knew how to fight. Nevertheless, he was a welcome addition to the Gotei's ranks.
"Abarai-taichō, pick up the pace! We're gonna be late at this rate."
To his chagrin, Renji could sense that he was the last one to arrive.
He quickly entered the First Division meeting hall.
Rukia gave him a disapproving look as he walked past her, Iba-san trailing him. A ghost of a grin appeared on Ikkaku's impassive face.
Ignoring them, Renji rushed to his place alongside Shūhei. Iba following close behind. The right-hand spot was absent but beyond it was Kira. The sōtaichō was at the head of the room.
"Now that the Seventh Division is here, we can officially begin the meeting," Jūshirō said. "We are gathered here for the appointment of the new Fifth Division taichō."
He paused as he surveyed the room.
"It's taken a while to find a suitable candidate. As you all know, Hirako Shinji, the former taichō has opted to be promoted to be a Hell Warden after being exonerated along with Muguruma Kensei and Kuna Mashiro. The individual that we are inducting today technically gained appointment through all three taichō approval methods. He has proven himself in the Soul Society's direst need."
He deliberately paused once more. "Please come in, Kurosaki Ichigo."
The door swung open a minute later, revealing Ichigo clad in a long-sleeved white haori. Hinamori stood behind him, looking slightly nervous.
"Yo," he greeted everyone as he stepped forward.
All the taichō wore smiles save for Byakuya.
"About time," Renji muttered as Ichigo claimed his place to the right of him.
Rukia gazed at Ichigo with mild exasperation and pride.
Who would've thought that the strange Human boy she had met years ago would ever don the most respected garment in the Soul Society?
Ichigo hadn't had any interest in becoming a taichō. She couldn't blame him. It was a huge responsibility. He'd been content patrolling the World of the Living and collaborating with Ishida and Inoue whenever he could. Karakura had technically ceased to being a Jūreichi, but the Gotei 13 had welcomed Ishida's assistance to help control the Hollows in the town. They had even asked him to patrol the surrounding cities due to the Shinigami shortage. Urahara had improved the detection system and had it made easier to for advanced notices to be sent to him.
Ukitake-sōtaichō had been pleased with Ichigo's work. His assistance had given the Gotei 13 a bit of a reprieve due to their losses. He had wanted to respect Ichigo's wishes to simply be an independent agent but ultimately he decided Ichigo was needed to fill the vacancies in the top ranks and had tried to offer him the captaincy of the Fifth Division within the last few months, but he'd shied away from it. Ukitake-sōtaichō had noted he was just like Kaien-dono had been. He'd refused getting promoted because protecting was more important than earning a title to him. He'd only accepted the position as a favor to Ukitake due to his formerly declining health. She wasn't surprised that friendship had motivated Kaien-dono. He had been such a remarkably humble man that strongly valued bonds.
She hadn't realized to what extent that applied to their bond as well. Ukitake-sōtaichō's revelation that Kaien-dono had planned to promote her if he ever became the taichō of the Thirteenth Division had been shocking to her. He had wanted to spite Byakuya because he had been upset that he was preventing her from advancing. She'd been stunned that Kaien-dono would've been willing to do such a thing. It was hearing these words along with Ichigo's encouragement that had led her to accept her appointment as fukutaichō though she didn't feel good enough. Despite all her training, she still felt she needed to grow stronger. Kaien-dono had believed in her potential and she wanted to honor it with her best.
Though she had known Ichigo didn't want the captaincy, she ended up getting him to accept the captaincy of the Fifth. She couldn't help but want to return Ichigo's belief in her that she was fit for a high-ranking role.
Whether he liked or not, he was a symbol of hope for everyone.
He was the man that delivered the Soul Society from oblivion with that final stroke.
It was only right that he restored the division that had been betrayed by its leader.
Unlike Aizen, Ichigo was humility incarnate. He knew what it meant to sacrifice himself for others. He was a better match for the Fifth Division than Aizen ever was.
She was certain Hinamori-fukutaichō would benefit from having a reliable man like him at the helm of her division.
Ichigo had proven to her that he was capable of teaching and leading others. She'd had him help with training others even before she became fukutaichō. Other Divisions also sent their rookies to him whenever they wanted them to gain experience in the field. He had become the World of the Living point man. Of course, he still had a long way to go, but at least he wasn't a complete novice.
She had no doubt he would get the hang of it.
"So, Kurosaki-taichō, how does it feel to be a taichō?" Rukia asked as she and Ichigo walked towards the Fifth Division grounds. Hinamori-fukutaichō had gone ahead to prepare for the troops for his arrival.
"Tch. It's gonna take a while to get used to. Don't think this haori is practical for fighting."
"Since when have you ever been practical?"
"Oi, I can be practical."
"You have a long way to go before anyone thinks you're practical. Anyway, I doubt the haori will bother you much with fighting. Your Bankai Shihakushō is on the long side, and you manage just fine with it. You shouldn't complain about something so trivial."
"That isn't the same," Ichigo snapped. "And I'd be more respectful if I were you, Kuchiki-fukutaichō. That isn't the proper way to speak to a taichō." He smirked smugly.
"Forgive me, Kurosaki-taichō," Rukia said in a mocking tone. "I didn't know becoming a taichō had made you more sensitive to hearing the truth."
"Don't be such a smart ass, Kuchiki-fukutaichō." He glared at her. "Didn't you find wearing your badge annoying when you first got it?"
"A badge is different than a haori. It's an accessory, not clothing. Shinigami are discouraged from wearing any accessories that could hinder them in battle, you know."
"It's not even mandatory for you."
"In the past it wasn't but it now is. My division doesn't have a taichō. I need to wear it to remind them that they do have a leader."
"Are you sure it's not because you love your title so much, Kuchiki-fukutaichō?"
Rukia shot him an annoyed look. "You're the one who seems to love it so much. I've told you to quit calling me that when no one's around. Besides, you're now the one with the higher rank, Kurosaki-taichō. Don't call me Kuchiki-fukutaichō. I am Kuchiki Rukia," Rukia corrected him.
"Fine, I'll quit it if you do the same for me. This haori changes nothing. I'm still Kurosaki Ichigo."
They stared at each other and smiled.
Ichigo wasn't entirely sure about becoming a taichō. Rukia had been the one that had pushed him to take the role. For whatever reason, she thought he could handle the role. He hoped she wasn't wrong.
He didn't know what the future held for him, but no matter how things changed, he knew that if Rukia was by his side, things would be okay.
Fin
Chapter notes:
Per chapter 27, Keigo and Mizuiro are residents of Naruki.
Per the Radio Kon Interview in Volume 12, Uryū lives alone.
Ever since Orihime thought Uryū liked Rukia, I thought that her character arc would involve her realizing that Ichigo wasn't into her and coming into her own with her powers. Kubo ended up going a different direction though he did plant seeds of both. He tried to fulfill the latter, but it wasn't truly satisfying to me. Though admittedly Orihime isn't my type of character, I've grown to appreciate her character more by diving into her headspace through my writing and understanding how others perceive her. Like any defensive player on a sports team, she just doesn't get enough credit. It's a shame that Kubo didn't give her proper development for both her powers and relationship. The reality is that Ichihime happened post time skip and not because of series events. This is the only way it makes sense. Kubo said they didn't get together until after college (Bleach Jet Artbook). It's a shame he didn't do mutual development for Ichihime if that was his intended couple. I understand that he wanted to shy away from making romance the main focus, but he still needed to lay a better groundwork for the couple so that the ending felt more natural.
It's interesting that in Volume 3, Orihime wishes to be the rain to connect the heavens and the earth. This is kinda ironic because her name is from the Tanabata legend which is about a weaver princess who gets separated from her lover and can only meet him on July 7th if it doesn't rain (July is rainy season in Japan). I know a lot of people think that application of the legend to Orihime is romantic, but I don't think it is. Tragic romance is only meaningful if the two characters really care for one another and Kubo didn't really depict Ichigo and Orihime in that manner. It seemed to me like it highlighted their incompatibility especially since rain in Ichigo's case is a metaphor for despair. Fulfilling the legend would've meant Ichigo and Orihime couldn't be together in a way that wasn't a tragic romance (he has a thing for these). Kubo has always written about people's paths diverging in the supplementary chapters (-17, -.08, 25.5) and within the story itself, so it's not like he's against this concept.
I essentially tried to fulfill Orihime's desire to be the rain, a positive force that connects the heavens (Soul Society) and the living world. I tried my best to give her the relevance she deserves.
Final AN:
It feels strange for this to be the last chapter of Ascension. I put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears (literally cried tears of frustration) but I never meant for this story to take as long as it did. I had hoped it would take me 3 years. I had always envisioned that I would've moved on to its sequels by then but sadly that wasn't the case. I know a lot of you have been antsy for more chapters but trust me I'm the one who's probably been agonizing the most about not being able to produce them fast enough. My passion for this story and your support is what kept me chipping away at it despite the time.
This fic was never supposed to be a story about Ichigo and Rukia developing a romantic relationship due to them encountering their future child. I tried to make it clear in the writing and author's notes. The reason I wrote that it would have hints of Ichiruki in the summary is precisely for this reason. I always saw Ichigo and Rukia getting together years after. They're both not in the position to fall for each other at this point in time. I consider this story an alternative arc called the Ascension arc.
For me this fic has served as solace from Kubo's canon story. It has always comforted me from his writing, and it reeled in my discontent with the ending. I know many of you probably felt so upset with the series that you had to step away from it for a while. I personally didn't feel as upset because I had to a degree braced myself for it. The problem I had been having with Bleach since the final fight with Aizen has been that the series stopped making sense. I know a lot of people out there are satisfied with it making partial sense and exciting fights but personally that wasn't good enough. I wanted Bleach to be a coherent story like it had mostly been in the first arc. Honestly, Kubo's ability to make a coherent story even though he was just making up as he went along was impressive. The Aizen twist was something he decided on the last minute (interview in the Masked book).
Kubo in the final arc attempted to up himself with his plot twists/revelations. He attempted to make everything line up, but if you look at the finer details, they don't line up. He had to break his own universe logic to continue writing. Writers are supposed to avoid doing this. I know he was trying to make an exciting final arc, but it shouldn't have come at the expense of breaking his own world logic. I think he was capable of doing it without such a thing. For some plot elements, he nearly did it. I really feel for him because I think he bit off more than he could chew, and he ended up physically hurting himself with continuing the story for so long. It's a shame he didn't take a break.
Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this story. I humbly admit my writing isn't the greatest, but I tried the best I could to make a decent, coherent story. I'm fully aware working hard doesn't mean your writing will turn out great. I'm deeply grateful to all my readers. I have enjoyed getting to know some of you. It has been quite a gift to interact with you. You gave me the motivation not to give up writing this story. Please feel free to share your thoughts (please share in your native language if you don't feel comfortable writing in English) now that this story is over.
This fic may be over but please keep your eyes peeled for its sequel. Here is a preview:
Resurrection Summary: 15 years Post Ascension. Kurosaki Ichigo survived the horrific Winter War and the reconstruction of the Soul Society. He never imagined the greatest challenge he would face would be marrying Rukia and dealing with the Kuchiki elite. The ways of the Gotei 13 had not prepared him for the ways of the nobility.
This fic will be on the short side. 5-10 chapters.