Chapter 24: A Timely Proposal
Author notes:
Greywolf: From the start I have felt Momo would be the best girl from Bleach for Link, they are similar in how calm they are and both need someone there for them after everything they have gone through. For the rest of the girls, I have some ideas in place for who is next but I'm mostly going to put my next favorite girl in next. She's very fun to have in the story and deserves way more love than she gets.
MonsterKing: You and the rest of the readers made it so, so many people here want Link to get more attention than usual. There is always room for girls not yet chasing him to take a chance, so he may get even more love.
After spending the night at the Shihōin estate, Link was approached by Byakuya early in the morning. Byakuya's typically calm demeanor was accompanied by an unusual sense of urgency as he informed Link that the announcement of the new noble house had been moved up. Link would now be officially named the head of the new clan the very next day, and with it, his marriage had to be announced as well.
Link froze, his heart pounding. He had thought he still had more time to prepare, more time to build the courage to speak to Momo. Before he could process it fully, Yoruichi, who had been nearby, strolled over with a teasing grin. She poked him lightly in the side, snapping him out of his daze.
"Hurry to the one you want," she said, her tone playful but her eyes sincere. "She'll understand."
Link looked at her, her support steadying him. With a determined nod, he bolted from the estate, his thoughts racing. He prayed silently to Hylia as he ran, hoping with all his heart that Momo would say yes.
Link found Momo in one of the serene gardens near her division's barracks. She was seated beneath a cherry blossom tree, a peaceful smile on her face as she admired the falling petals. For a moment, he hesitated, taking in the sight of her. She seemed so calm, so pure, that he almost felt unworthy to disturb her tranquility. But he knew he couldn't wait any longer.
"Momo!" he called out, his voice trembling slightly.
Startled, she looked up, her brown eyes lighting up with warmth when she saw him. "Link? Is everything okay?"
He stepped closer, taking a deep breath to steady himself. "Momo, I need to talk to you about something important."
Her expression grew concerned, and she stood up, brushing petals from her lap. "What is it?"
Link hesitated, searching for the right words. He thought of Yoruichi's advice: speak from the heart. Taking another deep breath, he began.
"Momo, since I've come to this world, I've felt out of place, like I didn't belong," he admitted. "But you… you've made me feel grounded. You've been my light, my friend, and someone I care about deeply. Tomorrow, I'll be announced as the head of a new noble house, and with that, I have to… I have to marry someone to fulfill the role of Lady of the house."
Her eyes widened slightly, but she didn't interrupt, waiting for him to continue.
"I don't want this to be about duty or obligation," he said, his voice steadying. "Momo, I want you by my side, not because it's required, but because I… I love you. I don't know what the future holds, but I know I want to face it with you. Will you marry me?"
For a moment, silence hung in the air, the only sound the rustling of the cherry blossoms in the breeze. Then, tears welled up in Momo's eyes, and a radiant smile spread across her face.
"Yes, Link," she said softly. "I will."
Relief and joy flooded through him as she stepped forward and took his hands in hers. They stood beneath the cherry blossoms, their hands entwined, the world around them seeming to fade away.
The rest of the day passed in a whirlwind as preparations began for the announcement. Word quickly spread among the other captains and lieutenants about Link and Momo's engagement. While some were surprised, many were thrilled for them, especially Rangiku, who made it her mission to tease Momo endlessly about becoming the "Lady Hero."
By the time night fell, Link found himself reflecting on the day. Though the challenges ahead still loomed large, for the first time, he felt truly ready to face them. Momo's acceptance had given him strength, and with her by his side, he felt he could take on anything.
Tomorrow, the world would know of the new noble house—and of the bond that would help guide it into the future.
As the day began to wane, Link sat with Momo in the quiet garden, the soft glow of twilight enveloping them. He felt a deep sense of contentment, knowing she had chosen to stand by his side. Their conversation was lighthearted and easy, with both of them basking in the newfound bond they shared.
Out of nowhere, Yoruichi appeared with her characteristic stealth, causing Link to jump slightly. "Sorry to interrupt your little love fest," she said with a teasing grin, "but I need to borrow your fiancée. It's time for her fitting for the big announcement tomorrow morning."
Momo blinked in surprise but allowed herself to be pulled to her feet. Before leaving, Yoruichi turned to Link, her golden eyes gleaming with mischief. "By the way, what colors will represent your noble house? You're running out of time to decide."
Link didn't hesitate. "Gold and green," he said firmly. "The colors of my tunic and the light of my world's Goddess, Hylia."
Yoruichi nodded, clearly pleased with his choice. "Bold and fitting. I like it. Alright, Hero, we'll take care of things from here." With that, she whisked Momo away, leaving Link alone with his thoughts.
As Yoruichi led Momo to the Shihōin estate's fitting room, her teasing began almost immediately. "So, Lady Hero," Yoruichi said with a smirk, "how does it feel to be Link's first wife? The founder of his noble house? Pretty big deal, huh?"
Momo's cheeks turned crimson. "Y-Yoruichi, it's not like that! I… I just want to support him, that's all!"
"Oh, sure, sure," Yoruichi replied, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "Supporting him by being the first to warm his bed, right?"
Momo nearly stumbled at the comment. "Y-Yoruichi! That's not—! I mean, we haven't even—!"
Yoruichi threw her head back in laughter. "Relax, Momo. I'm just teasing you. But seriously, you do know he adores you, right? You've got the jump on the rest of us girls."
Momo looked down, her blush deepening. "I… I don't want to take anything for granted. I just want him to be happy."
"Which is exactly why you're perfect for him," Yoruichi said with a rare note of sincerity. As they reached the fitting room, Yoruichi ushered Momo inside and began sorting through fabrics in shades of gold and green.
As Momo tried on the elaborate garments, Yoruichi's teasing resumed, though her tone was more curious this time. "So, what's your plan for the wedding night?"
Momo froze mid-button. "P-Plan? What plan?"
Yoruichi arched an eyebrow. "Oh, come on. You're marrying the guy tomorrow. You haven't thought about how you're going to, you know, seal the deal?"
Momo's face was practically glowing red at this point. "Yoruichi! I-I haven't even thought about that! I wouldn't know what to do!"
With a sly smile, Yoruichi leaned closer, whispering conspiratorially. "Well, lucky for you, I've got some ideas. Let's just say if you want to leave an impression on him, I can help you out."
"W-What do you mean?" Momo stammered, unsure if she should even be asking.
Yoruichi chuckled, leaning back with a smirk. "Oh, don't worry. It'll be subtle. Just a little… incentive to remind him why he chose you."
As Momo tried to focus on the fitting, her mind swirled with a mixture of embarrassment and nervous anticipation. Yoruichi's confidence was both intimidating and oddly reassuring, and though she wasn't sure she'd follow through with any of the older woman's suggestions, she couldn't deny the advice was… intriguing.
By the time the fitting was done, Momo was exhausted from both the preparations and Yoruichi's relentless teasing. But as she looked at herself in the mirror, draped in elegant gold and green, she couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. Tomorrow, she would stand beside Link not just as a noble Lady, but as someone who would face the challenges of this new life with him.-
The morning sun rose over the Seireitei, casting a golden glow over the bustling preparations for the grand announcement. Link felt the weight of the day pressing on his shoulders as Byakuya ensured every detail of his appearance was flawless. Dressed in formal robes adorned with golden and green accents, Link stood rigid as Byakuya adjusted the ceremonial sash across his chest.
"You are about to step into history," Byakuya said with his usual stoic tone. "This is not only a moment for your house but for Soul Society as a whole. Carry yourself with dignity."
Meanwhile, at the Shihōin estate, Momo was undergoing her own whirlwind of preparation. Yoruichi flitted about, alternating between teasing remarks and rapid-fire lessons in noble etiquette. "Alright, Momo, chin up. Back straight. You're a noblewoman now—well, almost. You're going to wow them all, especially your husband-to-be."
Momo's cheeks flushed. "Yoruichi, please! I'm already nervous enough!"
"Good," Yoruichi said with a smirk, adjusting the delicate gold and green gown Momo wore. "That nervous energy will just make you more radiant. Trust me, when Link sees you, he'll forget how to breathe."
As the clock struck noon, the grand courtyard of the Seireitei was filled with the gathered captains, lieutenants, and countless onlookers. The Head Captain stood at the center podium, his imposing figure commanding silence as he raised his hand. Link stood beside him, the weight of the moment evident in his posture.
"Today," the Head Captain began, his deep voice resonating through the courtyard, "we mark a historic occasion. For the first time in centuries, a new noble house will rise within Soul Society. This house, Hylia, bears the name of the Goddess from the world of its founder, Link, a warrior whose deeds and commitment have earned him this place of honor."
A murmur rippled through the crowd, but the Head Captain's raised hand silenced it again. "To signify his dedication to Soul Society's future, Link has chosen a wife who will stand by his side and help him build a legacy that will endure for generations."
At that moment, the doors to the hall opened, and Momo stepped out, her every movement poised and graceful. Her gown shimmered in the sunlight, the gold and green threads catching the light in a way that made her look almost ethereal. Link's breath caught in his throat as he stared at her, stunned by her beauty.
The crowd erupted in whispers as Momo walked to stand beside Link. Among them, the reactions of those closest to Link were varied.
Rangiku crossed her arms, a faint pout on her lips as she muttered, "Well, I guess I lost my chance at being first."
Soi Fon looked visibly tense, her hands clenched into fists. Before her anger could escalate, Yoruichi leaned over and whispered something in her ear. Whatever it was, it caused Soi Fon's face to turn bright red as she quickly averted her gaze.
Rukia, standing quietly near Byakuya, smiled softly. "He'll be happy with her," she said to herself, feeling a genuine sense of relief and joy for the pair.
As the ceremony concluded, Link turned to Momo, offering her his hand. She took it with a shy smile, her heart racing as she felt his warmth.
"You look… incredible," Link said softly, his voice barely audible over the applause of the crowd.
"And you look like a true leader," Momo replied, her confidence growing as she stood beside him.
In that moment, surrounded by the cheers of the Seireitei, Link and Momo felt the first steps of their new journey together. Though challenges surely lay ahead, for now, they had each other—and the promise of a future they would build side by side.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, Link and Momo walked through the quiet streets of the Seireitei toward their new home. The weight of the day's events began to ease, replaced by a serene joy shared between them.
Their new estate was modest for a noble house, reflecting Link's humility, but it carried an aura of warmth and elegance. Stepping inside, Momo marveled at the intricate designs that incorporated elements of both Hyrulean and Soul Society aesthetics.
"It's perfect," Momo said softly, her hand still clasped in Link's.
"It feels more like home because you're here," Link replied, his voice tender as he smiled at her.
They shared a quiet meal together, laughter and light conversation filling the air. For a moment, it felt as if they were just two ordinary people enjoying each other's company, far removed from the burdens of nobility or duty.
As the evening wore on, they retired to their shared bedroom, the reality of their new life together settling in. Momo excused herself, leaving Link to sit on the edge of the bed, his mind swirling with thoughts of their future.
A few moments later, the sound of the door opening caught his attention. When he looked up, his breath hitched. Momo stood in the doorway, her cheeks flushed, wearing a delicate green lingerie set that shimmered softly in the candlelight.
Her voice wavered slightly as she stepped closer. "Link… I wanted to surprise you."
Link froze, his face turning as red as a Goron's tunic, unable to take his eyes off her. She was stunning, and the sight left him at a loss for words.
Momo, her confidence bolstered by his reaction, climbed onto the bed and straddled his waist, her hands resting lightly on his chest. She leaned forward, her lips brushing against his ear as she whispered, "Tonight… I want us to truly be husband and wife. I want to be your first, Link."
His heart raced, and he placed his hands gently on her hips. "Are you sure, Momo? We don't have to rush anything. I don't want you to feel pressured."
Her blush deepened, but her determination shone through. "I've never been more sure of anything. If I don't do this now, I might never work up the courage again. And I don't want anyone else to have this moment with you—it's ours."
Moved by her sincerity, Link smiled and cupped her cheek, pulling her into a tender kiss. The rest of the world faded away as they sank into the bed together, their hearts beating as one.
The screen fades to black, leaving only the soft sounds of their laughter and Momo's shy but loving whispers echoing through their home, a testament to the bond they had sealed that night.