Chapter 22: The Blade's Call
Author notes:
Greywolf: I'm glad you liked how they bonded last chapter. I feel like Rangiku never has moments of being in her emotions, just always being a flirt. Try and remember the Fairy Grove though. I have some plans for a future idea.
Weeks had passed, and Soul Society had reached a quiet understanding about Link. While his presence still caused a stir among many, it became apparent that only a few women had truly forged meaningful connections with him: Momo, Rangiku, Soi Fon, Yoruichi, and Rukia. Of these, Momo and Rangiku seemed to have formed the deepest bonds, their interactions with Link growing increasingly natural and heartfelt.
On a calm afternoon, Link received an unexpected visitor: a servant from the Kuchiki household. The servant delivered a formal invitation from Byakuya, summoning him to the old Shiba clan estate. The message was cryptic but intriguing—the elusive Squad 0 had sent one of its members to meet him.
As Link considered the significance of this invitation, Momo and Rangiku, who had been nearby, were equally taken aback. Neither of them had ever met a member of the Royal Guard. Their curiosity spurred them to accompany Link, despite not being formally invited.
The Shiba clan estate had been left largely abandoned after their fall from noble status, but it still carried an aura of importance. Byakuya awaited them at the gate, his usual stoic demeanor unwavering. Without wasting words, he guided them inside to a central courtyard, where a man exuding an almost chaotic energy awaited them.
The man was a stark contrast to the serene surroundings. Dressed in colorful, eccentric robes, he was grinning ear to ear as he leaned casually against the courtyard's centerpiece, a massive ornamental pillar. When the group entered, he leaped up with exaggerated enthusiasm, his voice booming as he introduced himself.
"Yo, yo, yo! The name's Ōetsu Nimaiya! Creator of zanpakutō, master of blades, and the coolest guy you'll ever meet!" His voice carried an infectious energy, and his grin widened as he took in the group. "And you—you must be the Legendary Hero! Link, right?"
Link blinked, momentarily caught off guard by Ōetsu's flamboyant nature. "Uh, yes. That's me."
Ōetsu strode over, his piercing gaze examining Link from head to toe. Then, without warning, his attention snapped to the Master Sword hanging at Link's side. His grin faded, replaced by a look of reverence and intrigue.
"So that's the blade I've been hearing about," Ōetsu murmured, his voice quieter but no less intense. "I've felt its presence ever since you arrived in Soul Society. It's... different. Old, but alive in a way no zanpakutō has ever been."
Rangiku, sensing the shift in tone, hesitated before speaking. "You're... the creator of all zanpakutō? You made Haineko?" she asked, referring to her own sword.
Ōetsu flashed her a quick grin. "That's right, sweetheart. Every zanpakutō in Soul Society? They all come from me. I'm the master craftsman. But this blade…" He gestured to the Master Sword. "It's something else entirely."
Momo stepped forward, her curiosity piqued. "Why are you here, then? What do you want with Link's sword?"
Ōetsu's grin softened, and he crossed his arms, looking almost serious. "To study it, of course. To understand it. A blade like this doesn't belong to the Soul Society—it's not part of our world, and yet it exists here, stronger than almost anything I've seen. I need to know how and why."
Link's hand instinctively rested on the hilt of the Master Sword. "Study it how?" he asked cautiously.
"Relax, kid," Ōetsu said with a wave of his hand. "I'm not gonna break it or anything. But I do need to see how it interacts with you. A zanpakutō is a reflection of its wielder's soul, but this blade... it feels like it's got a soul of its own. You and it are connected in a way that's totally unique."
Momo and Rangiku exchanged uneasy glances, but Link nodded. "Alright," he said. "What do you need me to do?"
Ōetsu's grin returned. "That's the spirit! First, we'll do a little test—nothing too crazy. I wanna see if your sword responds to my reiatsu. If it doesn't, no big deal. If it does..." His eyes gleamed with excitement. "Well, then we'll have some fun."
The group moved to an open training ground on the estate, where Ōetsu prepared for his test. Byakuya, who had been silently observing, remained nearby, his arms crossed and his expression unreadable.
Ōetsu raised his hand, and an invisible wave of reiatsu rippled outward. The Master Sword began to glow faintly, its blue light flickering in response to the energy. Link tightened his grip on the hilt, his connection to the blade strengthening.
"Interesting," Ōetsu muttered. He unleashed a second wave, stronger this time, and the Master Sword's glow intensified. A low hum filled the air, and the ground beneath their feet seemed to vibrate.
Link closed his eyes, focusing on the sword. He could feel its energy resonating with his own, just as it had during his battles in Hyrule. He drew the blade from its sheath, its brilliance illuminating the training ground.
Ōetsu watched with wide eyes, his grin growing ever larger. "Incredible. This blade... it's not just a tool. It's a living thing, tied to you in a way I've never seen before. The balance of power between you two—it's perfect."
Momo and Rangiku watched in awe, their earlier unease giving way to admiration for Link and the weapon he wielded.
"So, what does that mean?" Link asked, lowering the blade but keeping it in hand.
Ōetsu crossed his arms, his grin fading slightly as he considered his answer. "It means that sword is something special. And so are you, kid. You've got a bond with it that even we in Soul Society can't fully understand. But one thing's clear—this sword's power isn't limited to just one world. It's connected to something bigger. And that connection could be the key to figuring out where you truly belong."
Link nodded, the weight of Ōetsu's words settling over him. He sheathed the Master Sword, its glow fading as he turned to Momo and Rangiku. Both women offered him small smiles of encouragement, their faith in him unwavering.
Byakuya stepped forward, his calm voice breaking the silence. "The Royal Guard has shown interest in you for a reason, Hero. Perhaps this meeting is only the beginning."
As the group prepared to leave, Link couldn't shake the feeling that his journey in Soul Society was far from over. The path ahead was uncertain, but for the first time, he felt a glimmer of hope that he might find where he truly belonged.
As the group prepared to leave the training grounds, Ōetsu suddenly froze, his lively demeanor replaced with a rare look of intense concentration. His gaze fixated on the Master Sword, which began to hum softly in response to his reiatsu. Before anyone could ask what was happening, the air around the sword shimmered, and a glowing, ethereal figure emerged.
Momo and Rangiku gasped in surprise, taking a step back. They stared at the figure, who floated gracefully above the sword, her body a radiant blue with geometric markings that seemed to pulse with a quiet rhythm.
"Fi?" Link asked, his voice laced with confusion. He hadn't summoned her and rarely saw her appear unless something urgent was at hand. "Why are you here?"
Fi turned her serene gaze to Link, bowing slightly. "Master, I have detected an anomaly. This individual possesses an extraordinary ability to sense the energies within the Master Sword. Such an occurrence holds a probability of only 0.001%."
Ōetsu smirked, crossing his arms as he addressed Fi directly. "Well, now. Ain't you full of surprises? You must be the spirit of this blade, huh? I gotta say, I've never seen anything like you before. Tell me—what's your story?"
Fi floated closer to him, her voice calm and unwavering. "I am Fi, the spirit of the Master Sword, created to serve the Hero chosen by the Goddess Hylia. My purpose is to guide and support my Master in fulfilling his destined role. You, however, are unique. I calculate that you have the rare capacity to sense the sword's true essence. It is likely that you perceive the connection between this blade and the many Heroes who have wielded it."
Ōetsu's grin widened. "You got that right. I can feel it—the echoes of every soul tied to this sword. Their memories, their struggles, their triumphs—they're all in here, woven into its very being. It's like a library of heroism."
Momo and Rangiku exchanged astonished looks, clearly overwhelmed by the implications.
Link frowned slightly, stepping forward. "Fi, what does he mean? Are you saying the spirits of the previous Heroes are... still here?"
Fi turned to Link, her expression as serene as ever. "Yes, Master. Each Hero who has wielded the Master Sword leaves an indelible mark upon it. Their experiences and memories are stored within the blade, serving as guidance for those who come after. However, one anomaly remains."
Ōetsu raised an intrigued eyebrow. "Anomaly? What kind of anomaly?"
Fi paused for a moment, as if contemplating how best to explain. "Every Hero's spirit is accounted for, save for one—the first Hero, the one who stood alongside the Goddess Hylia during the earliest days of her realm. His presence has not been sensed within the blade, nor does any trace of him remain in its essence. It is as though he has vanished entirely from its history."
Ōetsu stroked his chin thoughtfully. "The original Hero, huh? The one who started it all... Now that's a mystery worth solving."
Rangiku and Momo were captivated, their earlier concerns about the Squad 0 meeting completely eclipsed by the revelations unfolding before them.
Link's voice broke through the tension. "Fi, why is this important now? What does the first Hero have to do with me?"
Fi floated closer to him, her gaze unwavering. "Master, the Goddess Hylia's will persists even across dimensions. She entrusted the Master Sword to the line of Heroes to protect her realm and the balance of power. The absence of the original Hero's spirit represents an unfinished mission—a fragment of the Goddess's design left incomplete. I believe this may be connected to your presence here in Soul Society."
Ōetsu clapped his hands together, his grin returning in full force. "Well, well, kid. Looks like you're at the center of something way bigger than we thought. I'll tell ya what—if you decide to stick around and accept the role being offered to you, I'll help you figure this out. Finding that wayward spirit sounds like a challenge I'd love to tackle."
Link's mind raced. The thought of becoming a new noble family in Soul Society had already been daunting, but now it seemed his connection to the Master Sword carried an even greater responsibility. The idea of searching for the first Hero's spirit, of uncovering the truth behind the blade's origins, filled him with both excitement and unease.
Momo placed a gentle hand on his arm, her eyes filled with quiet encouragement. "Whatever you decide, we'll be here to support you."
Rangiku nodded, her expression more serious than usual. "Yeah. You've already done so much for us. If this is something you need to do, we'll help however we can."
Ōetsu's grin softened into something more genuine. "Take your time, kid. This ain't a decision to rush. But if you're up for it, you've got the potential to make history—not just here in Soul Society, but across worlds."
Link took a deep breath, the weight of the moment settling over him. He glanced down at the Master Sword, the blade that had been his constant companion through countless trials. He thought of the Heroes who had come before him, their spirits lingering in the sword as a testament to their deeds, and of the original Hero whose absence still echoed across time.
The path before him was clear, if daunting. But it was his path.
He lifted his head, meeting Ōetsu's gaze with quiet determination. "I'll do it," Link said, his voice steady. "I'll take the position you're offering. If this is what it means to belong in this world—and if it means I can continue to protect the balance here—then I accept. I'll become the new fifth noble house in Soul Society."
Ōetsu grinned broadly, clapping his hands together. "That's what I like to hear! You've got the heart of a real Hero, kid. I had a feeling you'd step up to the challenge."
Momo and Rangiku looked at Link with a mix of awe and pride. Momo's eyes glistened with emotion, and she reached out to place a gentle hand on his arm. "You're really going to do it? You're going to stay?"
Link nodded, a small smile breaking through his serious expression. "I've always been guided by the idea of protecting others, no matter where I am. If this is how I can do that here, then it's the right choice. This world has given me a purpose when I thought I'd lost everything."
Rangiku, for once, seemed speechless. Her expression softened, and after a moment, she gave him a warm smile. "Well, Hero, looks like you've got a new adventure ahead of you. Just don't forget to lean on us every once in a while, alright?"
Link smiled back. "I won't. I promise."
Ōetsu clapped him on the shoulder, his grin as wide as ever. "Alright then, kid! Welcome to the big leagues. The Shiba clan's legacy might be gone, but with you stepping in as the fifth noble house, Soul Society's future just got a whole lot brighter. I'll start arranging the official proceedings. And don't worry—I'll help you figure out this whole first Hero mystery too. We've got work to do!"
As Ōetsu turned to leave, Link glanced back at Momo and Rangiku, both of whom stood by him with unwavering support. For the first time since arriving in Soul Society, he felt a deep sense of belonging. He had a mission, a home, and allies who believed in him.
And as he gripped the hilt of the Master Sword, Link silently vowed to honor the legacy of every Hero who came before him—and to forge a new one for himself in this world.
As they walked away from the Shiba estate, Link's steps slowed, his thoughts swirling. Byakuya's earlier words about the expectations for a new noble family replayed in his mind: he would need to take multiple wives to secure the legitimacy of his house and meet the expectations of Central 46 and the other noble families.
He froze mid-step, his face heating up as the weight of the realization hit him like a hammer.
Momo, walking slightly ahead, noticed he had stopped and turned back with a concerned expression. "Link? What's wrong? You look... flustered."
Rangiku, catching on to his expression, smirked and leaned closer. "Oh, I have to hear this. What's on your mind, Hero?"
Link stammered, his usual composure completely shaken. "I… I just realized something about… becoming the head of a noble family. There's, um, a requirement I didn't think about before."
Momo tilted her head, her concern deepening. "What requirement?"
Link looked at her, then at Rangiku, and finally dropped his gaze to the ground, his face now bright red. "To create a strong noble house… I might have to… take multiple wives."
The air went silent for a moment. Momo's eyes widened in surprise, her cheeks immediately dusted with pink. Rangiku, on the other hand, burst into laughter. "Oh, that's what's got you so worked up? Poor guy, they really didn't ease you into this noble stuff, huh?"
Link frowned, his embarrassment growing. "It's not funny, Rangiku. I don't even know how to begin thinking about something like that. Back home, I never—" He cut himself off, unsure how to explain.
Rangiku waved a hand dismissively, still chuckling. "Relax, Hero. It's not like they're asking you to decide right now. Besides, it's not the worst thing in the world, is it?" She gave him a sly look. "I mean, you've already got plenty of admirers."
Momo looked away, her face now fully red as she tried to suppress her flustered feelings. "It's… a lot to take in, I'm sure," she murmured, her voice soft. "But… if it's for the good of Soul Society, and if it's something you're comfortable with, then… maybe it's not such a bad thing?"
Link glanced at her, her quiet support soothing his nerves somewhat. He managed a small smile. "Thanks, Momo. I just… I'm not used to this kind of responsibility. And I don't want to make the wrong choice. I want to do what's right for everyone, not just follow some rule because I have to."
Rangiku's laughter softened, and she looked at him more seriously. "And that's why you'll figure it out, Link. You've got a good heart. You'll find the right path. And hey, if you ever need advice…" She winked. "You know where to find me."
Link sighed, still overwhelmed but feeling a bit more grounded with their reassurances. As they continued their walk, his mind remained a whirlwind of thoughts. While the idea of taking multiple wives seemed daunting, he couldn't deny the bonds he was forming with Momo, Rangiku, and others.
Still, the weight of the decision loomed large, and he knew that whatever path he chose, it would shape not just his future, but the legacy of the new noble house he was about to build.
Later that night, Link walked through the quiet streets of the Seireitei, heading toward the Kuchiki estate. The air was cool, but his mind was anything but calm. The weight of his new responsibilities and the looming expectations surrounding marriage pressed heavily on his thoughts. He knew he needed guidance and hoped Byakuya would provide some clarity.
Upon arriving, a servant quickly escorted him inside. As he walked through the grand halls, the soft sound of footsteps behind him made him turn to see Rukia approaching.
"Link?" she said, surprised to see him. "It's late. Why are you here?"
Link hesitated for a moment before deciding to confide in her. He trusted Rukia's wisdom and kindness, and her connection to Byakuya made her someone he could be honest with about his concerns.
"I came to talk to Byakuya," he admitted. "It's about the expectations that come with being a noble head. Specifically… about the marriage part."
Rukia's eyes widened slightly. "Marriage?"
Link nodded, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. "I've agreed to take over as a new noble clan head, replacing the Shiba clan. But to solidify the position, I'll need to take multiple wives eventually. I just… don't know when or how to even start. I'm not sure I'm ready to ask anyone, let alone more than one person."
Rukia stopped walking, stunned by the revelation. "The Shiba… really won't be reclaiming their status? I always thought they might…" She trailed off, looking thoughtful for a moment. Then, her expression softened, and she gave him a small smile. "If that's the case, Link, then you'll need support. If you need to marry someone soon to fulfill those expectations… I'd be willing to help."
Link blinked, taken aback by her offer. "Help?"
Rukia nodded, her tone steady but warm. "I mean, I could marry you—at least as a figurehead wife. I wouldn't expect anything romantic from you. It would just be to help you adjust to the role of a noble and guide you through the responsibilities. I know how overwhelming this world can be, and I'd want to make it easier for you."
Her words struck a chord in Link. The sincerity in her voice and the selflessness of her offer left him speechless for a moment. But then he shook his head, a small blush rising to his cheeks. "Rukia… that's incredibly kind of you, but I couldn't ask that of you. You've already done so much for me. Besides…" He hesitated, his blush deepening. "You're one of the people I was thinking of asking anyway. If I did, I'd want it to be because I truly care about you, not because of some obligation or convenience. It should be special."
Rukia's breath hitched at his words, her own cheeks flushing a faint pink. She stared at him, stunned into silence as he gave her a reassuring smile and continued down the hallway.
When Link finally reached Byakuya's quarters, the nobleman greeted him with his usual composed demeanor. "Link," Byakuya said calmly, gesturing for him to enter. "You've come with questions, I assume."
Link stepped inside, gathering his courage. "Yes, Byakuya. I need to know—how many wives will I need to take to secure my position, and when will I need to choose the first one? I want to honor the traditions of the Seireitei, but I also want to be true to myself and the people I care about."
Byakuya studied him for a moment, his gaze calm but firm. "The specifics of noble traditions vary depending on the family, but for a new house to be accepted, it is customary to have at least three wives. This ensures the continuation of the family line and demonstrates stability to Central 46 and the other noble clans."
Link nodded slowly, absorbing the gravity of the situation. "And the first wife? When do I need to secure that marriage?"
Byakuya's expression remained neutral, but his tone grew more serious. "The first wife must be chosen and the marriage finalized by the day your new noble house is formally announced to the Seireitei. This will signify your readiness to lead and the legitimacy of your claim as a noble head. Central 46 and the other families will not accept a single man as the head of a newly established house."
Link's heart sank slightly at the deadline. "So… I don't have much time."
Byakuya gave a slight nod. "No, you do not. The announcement is expected in the coming months. While there is no specific requirement for the remaining wives to be chosen immediately, the first marriage is critical. It must demonstrate that you are prepared to uphold the responsibilities of a noble family."
Link exhaled deeply, the weight of the timeline settling heavily on his shoulders. "Thank you, Byakuya. That's clear."
Byakuya's gaze softened, though his tone remained firm. "This path will not be easy, Link. But you have shown great strength and character. I trust you will approach this responsibility with the same resolve you've shown in battle. If you require further guidance, the Kuchiki family will offer its support."
Link gave a small bow of gratitude. "Thank you. That means a lot."
As he left the estate, his thoughts returned to Rukia's offer and the faces of the other women he had grown close to. The knowledge that he needed to propose and marry one of them in the near future felt daunting, but he resolved to approach the matter with care and honesty. He wouldn't rush into something just to meet a requirement—he would make sure it was meaningful and true to himself and the people who had come to mean so much to him.