#I checked with Rukia and Renji

[substituted-shinigami]

[black--sun]

Ichigo wonders if that wording is supposed to sound so pointed. Especially after that remark about keeping promises. Maybe Shiro has some caustic commentary for him after all. Or Ichigo’s just reading into things. Either way, it sends a sharp ache bolting through his chest before he exhales it on a breath. 

Shiro seems so sensitive, he can’t help spreading his other hand out to flatten on Shiro’s stomach, feeling out smooth skin as it passes over his breastbone. He gets it. There’s a constant urge to touch Shiro buzzing around the back of his mind, like contact alone could fix everything wrong between them. It won’t. It’s just drawing it out. His forearm brushes Shiro’s cock, but he doesn’t pay it any more attention than he pays Yuu beside them or the ruffled blankets, because he is a prick. He smirks at that complaining, though the expression is mostly in his eyes. “Yeah, I know. You’ll be glad for it anyway in a second.” Glad for the extra stretch, even if Ichigo was being a dickhead. 

He slicks himself with that lube, one hand twisting all the way to the tip, then clicks the bottle shut and tosses it aside. He’s already lined up with the way he has Shiro spread in his lap, and Shiro looks more than ready. Ichigo pauses just long enough to contemplate rolling him onto his stomach. Just for the distance of it. But he’s already had Shiro’s hands and mouth all over him tonight. Maybe it won’t hurt anything. 

He’s aware he’s too still while he thinks it over, stretching the moment out while Shiro’s already impatient, so he presses into him. He bites back a groan as he pushes in slow but steady, only pausing halfway through, teeth locking against the desire keep going while he gives Shiro a moment to adjust to his size, closing his eyes against the instant spike of need that bubbles up.

He's breathing a little harder than he should be, between just fucking Yuu and the anticipation of what's to come. His brows furrow when Ichigo says that, thinking for a moment that he's making fun of Shiro and his habits or something, before he realizes he's probably talking about himself. Too sober to be that big of a jackass. Lucky for Shiro's ass. Which also means he's too sober to blame any of this on anything other than it being exactly what he wants. Which, he supposes, is the same as yesterday. So his only excuse is that he wants it, and nowhere Shiro is, overthinking it while he's about to get fucked in all the ways he likes most. He shakes himself from his thoughts but wonders if he's not too sober for all of this, not just taking a dick cold.

He scoffs. "I don't charge my mind once I commit. About anything. You know that." He's stubborn like that, and wants exactly what he decides he wants. But that finger teasing a second before pushing in earns a small shudder. His dick is so hard from being inside Yuu and now saluting untouched between them it's genuinely maddening.

The second finger and the way Ichigo looks at him like a starved man looking at a whole meal has him groaning, as much as frustration and want as appreciation for the added stretch. And then there's a third finger and, "Goddammit, Ichigo you prick-" it's an exasperated, huffed out curse. They're not together, he doesn't have to be nice. In fact, it's probably better for both of them if he's not.

[reikorun]

KlubOutside Q&A 501-600 [Translation]

Translated by @reikorun

Q501.

2023.08.14

How old is Riruka? (At the time of the Lost Agent of the Shinigami arc.)

A501.

She's 15 years old.

Q502.

2023.08.14

Sensei, when drawing manga, do you pretend to be the central character at that moment, before drawing? Or do you always maintain an objective perspective? 

A502.

Rather than getting into the role of the character, I draw them as if they were right in front of me. When I try to fully embody a character, I feel that the range of the character narrows because there are limits to my own perception. 

Q503.

2023.08.21

Why is it called "Karakura Town"?

A503.

The name comes from the mental image of an empty body with a missing soul (in other words, a corpse). 

Q504.

2023.08.21

Among the Shinigami, there are some who hide the abilities of their own Zanpakutō, and there are some who remain silent about the fact that they can perform Bankai, but aren't there any rules that require them to declare this information?

A504.

Of course, they have an obligation to report on these things.

Q505.

2023.08.21

With respect to BLEACH, I get the impression that there are few explanations of the situation or a character's abilities which resemble a 'voice from above'. Is there something you're particular about with regard to this aspect? 

A505.

I feel like it kills the immersion so I make an effort to avoid using it. Though, I don't particularly dislike this aspect when it comes to reading.

Q506.

2023.08.28

I love the Visored! While there may be differences in the balance of mastery or ineptitude over the Zankensoki, strictly speaking, who is the strongest among those eight when it comes to battle? If the ability of the Zanpakutō is direct attack type, I somehow feel that the user may not have an aptitude for Kidō too, so I would be glad if you could also tell me who is the most adept at Kidō, putting aside Hacchi!

A506.

If we take "adept at Kidō" to mean "a wide range of Kidō variations can be used" then after Haachi, it's Rose. As for who the strongest is, that's hard to say because it depends on the conditions.

Q507.

2023.08.28

How did the Visored previously make a living? Also, Hiyori has a part-time job, but are Love and Hacchi working too?

A507.

Hacchi collaborates with Tessai to develop Kidō goods for use in the Soul Society. Love works part-time at a second hand clothes store.

Q508.

2023.08.28

What specific tasks does Kubo-sensei do when taking on the role of "supervisor" for things like Brave Souls, movies, anime, etc.? For things like Brave Souls, do you check and make corrections to the designs that have been submitted to you?

A508.

The degree of supervision varies depending on the case, and that's the way it is for Brave Souls too.

Q509.

2023.09.04

It was explained within the story that Zaraki Kenpachi took a sword from a Shinigami, but if the Shinigami who had their sword taken were still alive and had achieved Shikai and Bankai, would they end up having a similar ability to Zaraki's Nozarashi?

A509.

That wouldn't happen. Abilities can be overwritten prior to Shikai acquisition (and depending on the person, even after its acquisition).

Q510.

2023.09.04

Rukia and Renji are a working couple, but did Ichika go to nursery school or a daycare center when she was very young, prior to entering the Shin'ō Academy?

A510.

Even though they both took childcare leave, several nannies dispatched by the Kuchiki clan were always stationed at the Abarai residence.

Q511.

2023.09.04

Is the marriage rate low for the Captains and Vice-Captains of the Gotei 13? Are there any Captain class Shinigami we don't know about who are actually married?

A511.

There is no one among the current members. I feel like there aren't many among that lot who seem capable of maintaining a married life…. 

Q512.

2023.09.11

Previously, in response to a question about the names of Hollows, you answered that "there is a person in charge of naming them", but do they name each Hollow one by one? Or are these names only given to Hollows who have murdered Shinigami, or caused a great deal of damage to the Human World 

A512.

It's the latter. Other Hollows are assigned numbers and such based on what is captured. 

Q513.

2023.09.11

About Unagiya Kaoru, he is the son of Unagiya Ikumi and who else? My personal prediction is that it's Tsukishima-san! 

A513.

What a frightening prospect.

Q514.

2023.09.11

Are all the artwork which appear in Guidelines on KlubOutside drawn by Kubo-sensei while your assistants draw the background and other elements?

A514.

That's right. Characters, drawn lettering and effects are my job, while the background, motion lines and screentones are my assistant's job. I thought that if I continued drawing the motion lines by hand, I wouldn't be able to finish the whole piece so halfway through the series I decided to hand that over to my assistants.

Q515.

2023.09.18

It is mentioned that Urahara created his healing hot springs by imitating Kirinji's baths, but do these baths still remain in Soul Society? Or did he go to the Soul King Palace and analyze them?

A515.

A few still remain in a remote area of Rukongai.

Q516.

2023.09.18

Why does Bakudō #81. "Dankū" possess the anti-Hadō capability to "completely block Hadō numbered 89 and below"? Hadō is meant to be used by fellow Shinigami,  in other words, by allies, therefore the anti-Hadō capability is presumably based on the premise of defending against attacks from allies. I speculate that in the past, Shinigami who were skilled in Hadō numbered 89 and below had turned hostile, so Dankū was created as a countermeasure to that. 

A516.

That's a good guess.

Q517.

2023.09.18

Why does Orihime call Grimmjow "Grimmjow" but Ulquiorra "Ulquiorra-kun"?

A517.

That's because the atmosphere on their first meeting was not one where she was able to address Grimmjow with the -kun honorific. Though, I also think Ulquiorra is the same in that regard.

Q518.

2023.09.18

Please tell us the gender of Nianzol Weizol. 

A518.

You'll know when you hear his voice in the anime, but he's a man.

Q519.

2023.09.25

Are the attack methods which utilize Gintō and the Medallion chant used by Ebern all techniques which are classified as "Kirchenlied"? 

A519.

"Kirchenlied" is the equivalent of a Shinigami's "Kidō", therefore that is the case for most techniques which correspond to a spell.

Q520.

2023.09.25

Does Driscoll's Overkill become stronger based on the number of people killed from the time he received his Schrift to now? Or does the buff expire at the end of the battle or some other point? 

A520.

The buff is removed by sleeping, eating, or loss of consciousness.

Q521.

2023.09.25

Are there any characters among the BLEACH cast who wear perfume, or has an image of their scent been decided upon in Kubo-sensei's mind? Recently, perfumes and fragrances that capture the image of one's favorite character or idol have been released regardless of whether they are fictional or real, so I wonder if we'll get some released out of the BLEACH universe as well.

A521.

I've been asked quite frequently to release perfume, so I'm starting to think it might be nice to do so. I don't use perfumes but sometimes I'll buy them when I want the bottle….

Q522.

2023.10.02

Nimaiya Ōetsu makes the Asauchi, but did he create them with Shikai and Bankai in mind from the very outset? Or did he realize that the shape and properties of the swords changed with each individual as they used it, and that phenomenon was then given the name Shikai and Bankai by the Monk?

A522.

That is the correct order of events.

Q523.

2023.10.02

Shishigawara-kun's Fullbring "Jackpot Knuckle" has a characteristic where the probability of hitting the jackpot ends up decreasing with continuous use, but will the probability of a jackpot be restored once it has already been decreased? If it does, I would also like to know what the conditions are.

A523.

There is a gradual recovery from misfortune (taking damage, etc.) Full recovery occurs when crossing over to the next day at midnight. 

Q524.

2023.10.02

When did Hirako Shinji get his tongue pierced? It wasn't pierced during The Past arc, was it…?

A524.

I always forget to draw it, so I may not even include it anymore.

Q525.

2023.10.09

Is the hierarchy of strength for the Bambies: Liltotto > Giselle > Meninas > Bambi > Candice? 

A525.

If they engage in battle with Blut, then that's probably the order. If it's a bare-handed fight then it's: Liltotto → Meninas → Candice → Gigi → Bambi.

Q526.

2023.10.09

Vice-Captain Madarame comes from a distinguished family, but what about 3rd seat Ayasegawa? 

A526.

Yumichika was an abandoned child from Rukongai.

Q527.

2023.10.09

When I look at Rickenbacker, I get a buddy-like vibe and at the same time a faint sense of some maternal quality, but do Dragons even have things like gender?

A527.

They do. By the way, Rickenbacker is male.

Q528.

2023.10.16

The Kōtotsu was completely destroyed by Aizen, but after that, didn't any problems arise within the Dangai? Are there multiple Kōtotsu, or perhaps it was restored through a self-purification function or something?

A528.

It will be restored within the next seven days.

Q529.

2023.10.16

Urahara-san runs a small-time candy shop in the Human World, but is there some specific reason why he chose to open up a candy shop? 

A529.

It's because Kisuke thought that candy shops were the best in that he could open and close the shop as he pleases, and even if he stocks strange items, it's harder to suspect anything is out of the ordinary.

Q530.

2023.10.16

Will there not be a BLEACH themed pachinko machine released? I'm just allowing myself to imagine that the staging effects and so on would be so fun, LOL.

A530.

There are no such plans, but the staging aspect certainly sounds entertaining. ×[1]

Q531.

2023.10.23

When Ichigo wears his sword, he carries Zangetsu on his back, but how is it held in place?

A531.

The sash on the hilt is wrapped around the chain along with the blade.

Q532.

2023.10.23

Is Yukio unmarried in the Echoing Jaws of Hell arc?

A532.

He's unmarried. It doesn't seem very likely that he'll marry….

Q533.

2023.10.23

When I was looking at the art of BLEACH, I got the impression of ballet movements, like the way in which characters use the tips of their toes and the lower half of their bodies. Sensei, do you ever watch ballet?

A533.

I sometimes watch Lausanne on TV, but I'm not very familiar with it. If anything, I suppose the sharp-tongued humor is the thing that I find interesting to watch.

Q534.

2023.10.30

Kotetsu Kiyone and Kotsubaki Sentarō share the same birthday, are they twins related by blood?

A534.

They're unrelated, but every year, they were made to sit side-by-side by Ukitake and celebrate their birthdays together.

Q535.

2023.10.30

How do Arrancar acquire a Zanpakutō? Do their broken mask pieces transform into Zanpakutō after they become Arrancar?

A535.

I'll tell you because I don't particularly feel like drawing it, but the torn part of the mask becomes the sword. So you are correct.

Q536.

2023.10.30

During the Quincy invasion, Mayuri modified his room and clothes to make them glow so that they wouldn't cast shadows, but wouldn't a shadow be created in Nemu's cleavage if left like that? This is a serious question.

A536.

Now that you mention it, that's true…. I should have placed a glow stick or something between her breasts. 

Q537.

2023.11.06

How did you feel when BLEACH was parodied in Gintama?

A537.

When we first met, I was the one who told Sorachi-san "you can do whatever you want"…. Yet, he still apologized to me.

Q538.

2023.11.06

Is Hikifune Kirio-san's Tree of Life based on a similar principle to Kidō?

A538.

It's similar, but since it can only be used by one individual, I guess it's something closer to Ganju's Seppa….

Q539.

2023.11.06

Findorr Calius adjusted his own strength by breaking his mask, but is it also possible to restore his broken mask and strength back to their original state.

A539.

It's possible. Even if it's left alone, it will gradually return to its original state. It's kind of like an injury.

Q540.

2023.11.13

My prized possession is a copy of KaraBuri+ which I bought when I was in the 6th or 5th grade. Would you consider composing something like another official spin-off that is drawn in a light-hearted and humorous manner? I'd even like to see something similar to a Hueco Mundo version of KaraBuri!

A540.

If someone else were to draw something amusing, I'd also like to see it.

Q541.

2023.11.13

I have a question about Ayon and Orihime's abilities! After creating Ayon, if the arms of Apacci and the others were healed via Orihime's powers, could something like an 'Ayon duplication bug' occur? If the arms of the three individuals who create Ayon are restored through Orihime's abilities, would Ayon also disappear? It's just a hypothetical scenario, but I'm intrigued.

A541.

If the bodies of Apacci and co. can endure the rapid continuous regeneration process, a duplication bug is possible. 

Q542.

2023.11.13

I was curious about the differences in size between Minazuki's first appearance, published in volume 18, and the time they landed on Sōkyoku Hill, published in volume 21. Can Minazuki's size be changed at will? Or did they become smaller as a result of the lifesaving measures Unohana gave Hitsugaya and Hinamori at the Seijōtōkyorin? (*The enclave where the Central 46 reside.)

A542.

The size can vary considerably. The smallest size is around the size of a puppy.

Q543.

2023.11.20

I totally want the shoes that Rabu is wearing in the new artwork (color version) from the art exhibition. They're exceedingly stylish, are there any plans to turn them into merch in the future!!!!?

A543.

I love shoes, so I'd be happy if merchandise in the form of shoes that a character is seen wearing could be sold, but I wonder if that can happen.

Q544.

2023.11.20

Quilge Opie used Ransōtengai, but no other Quincy were seen utilizing this technique. Is this simply because Quilge Opie has both the talent and understanding, and has therefore mastered Ransōtengai?

A544.

That's right. Quilge is the combat instructor of the Sternritter, and Quilge's students can also be found among the current Wörtlich.

Q545.

2023.11.20

Gin's Bankai, Kamishini no Yari, had the ability to leave a piece of the sword within the body of his opponent, and then dissolve and break down cells with the poison inside the sword, but will the part that was lost through this process never return to its original state again just like other Bankai? Also, assuming it doesn't return, if this ability is used frequently, will the blade eventually be reduced to nothing meaning his Bankai is rendered unusable? 

A545.

The part left inside the body is made of poison, and since the poison is a secretion of the sword, it will return to its original state after a certain amount of time.

Q546.

2023.11.27

Each Division among the Gotei 13 has its own Squad Flower and a set meaning within Hanakotoba (*the Japanese language of flowers), but are there opportunities to study Hanakotoba as part of a Shinigami's cultivation at the Academy, for instance? (I was curious because there was a scene in chapter 323 where Kira talked about the 3rd Division's Squad Flower.)

A546.

They learn about the Squad Flowers, but Izuru seems to be well-acquainted with things like Hanakotoba in a general sense.

Q547.

2023.11.27

Are there any characters that you wanted to present as enemies even though they are allies, and are there any characters where the reverse is true?

A547.

There isn't any. Each character can only come to fit into their role because of the relationship they have with those around them. 

Q548.

2023.11.27

Before the establishment of the Shinigami Research and Development Institute, was there no research institution in Soul Society?

A548.

At one point, there was a group who, though unofficial, were close in that regard (in the sense that they created things). That group disappeared and there was a period of time where no similar organization existed. What was formally established after that is the Shinigami Research and Development Institute. Mayuri belonged to the first group. Senjumaru was their leader.

Q549.

2023.12.04

It is explained in the manga that Lloyd R, the younger brother, can imitate physical likeness and memories, but why is he able to use Yhwach's abilities and weapons? Please tell us if he inherited his elder brother's ability, or if Yhwach granted him some of his own power, or perhaps there is some other reason? 

A549.

Each Lloyd brother can either 'perfectly' copy memories, or 'perfectly' copy powers respectively, any aspect outside of that can be copied on a scale of 70-80%. This is because being able to copy only memories or only powers is of little use. 

Q550.

2023.12.04

Do you have a PS5?

A550.

I don't have one.

Q551.

2023.12.04

What are the future plans for the floor of the 9th Division barracks which Mayuri destroyed with his eye beam in the one-shot? Will Hisagi and Kensei pay for the repairs?

A551.

They'll submit the bill to the 12th Division, and if that does work, they'll submit the bill to the 1st Division, and if that still doesn't work, then one way or another Shūhei will probably end up paying for it.

Q552.

2023.12.11

Who is the President of the Shinigami Women's Association by the time of the Echoing Jaws of Hell arc? I think the President is Lisa and the Supervising Chairwoman is Isane….

A552.

The President is Rangiku and the Chairwoman is Yoruichi. By the way, Soifon calls herself Vice-Chairwoman without asking anyone.

Q553.

2023.12.11

Is the aspect of death governed by the Espada the same for different people, as long as they have the same number, like Harribel and Nelliel, for instance? If it's different, I'd like to know what it was for Nelliel when she was an Espada!

A553.

It's the same. Nelliel is also "sacrifice".

Q554.

2023.12.11

Q: Does sensei have an ability to sense the supernatural? 

Q: When I read Bleach for the first time, I allowed myself to think “the author definitely has a sixth sense!" But do you really?

A554.

I don't. But I've been told a few times "you must have a sixth sense, for sure!" But, I don't.

Q555.

2023.12.18

Thank you for the wonderful posters at the art exhibition. I bought both the A and B collection. If the posters will be expanded on in the future, will the designs from the Shibuya poster takeover be made into merch? It was super cool and I was walking around Shibuya at the time while becoming all the more proud that BLEACH is my favorite manga. If there is even the slightest possibility, please consider it...!!

A555.

I like those posters too, so I'm hoping they'll sell well in the FC.

Q556.

2023.12.18

Does the blade grow as a Zanpakutō develops? 

A556.

The length of an Asauchi does not change, however when Shikai is used it will change in accordance with its development.

Q557.

2023.12.18

Is there some special relationship between the Komamura family and the Shihōin clan in BLEACH given that they are dogs and cats?

A557.

"Komamura" is the surname given to him when he was taken in by Genryūsai, it is not associated with his family lineage.

Q558.

2023.12.25

Were Yumichika and Yachiru's hair ornaments (or other accessories) made by Ikkaku?

A558.

Yachiru's hair ornament is handcrafted by Ikkaku. Yumichika bought his accessories himself. 

Q559.

2023.12.25

Did Mizuiro's parents pay for his high school tuition? 

A559.

It was paid for with child-support payments from his father.

Q560.

2023.12.25

Does the position of Substitute Shinigami come without compensation? Do you gain some sort of reward? Ichigo is a high school student and doesn't seem the type to accept rewards as far as his personality is concerned, but I'm curious if there has ever been any offer of reward from the Gotei! I think other Shinigami fight while receiving a salary and incentives as part of their job, so I'd like to know how the Gotei's substitute positions are handled.

A560.

In the beginning, the position was without reward. After receiving the Substitute Badge, it's now come to be that a reward will be deposited within a Seireitei account. Ichigo hasn't been informed though.

Q561.

2024.01.01

Will sensei be eating osechi* during New Year's? (*Assortment of traditional New Year foods.)

A561.

I eat it every year. Currently, I'm in the process of searching for osechi that suits my tastes. After all, you only get one chance a year. If only we had a New Year holiday like three times a year.

Q562.

2024.01.01

When Don Kanonji first appeared, he was performing an exorcism at an abandoned hospital, was it Ishida who tried to stop Kanonji's exorcism at the beginning?

A562.

Yes.

Q563.

2024.01.01

I noticed something in the Echoing Jaws of Hell arc section of BLEACH EX. the "Taka" (*hawk) which came out with Rindō Atau's Zanpakutō ability was "Washi" (*eagle) in the rough draft, right? What was the reason for the change? Is it because the hawk seems faster…?

A563.

I believe this was because eagle in sign language is the same as hawk and was derived from hawk to begin with, and also because hawks have a stronger Japanese image. 

Q564.

2024.01.08

Ayon ended up being defeated both times in the story, but let's assume he wasn't defeated, would he continue to exist forever…? If so, that would be awfully frightening. I'm curious about what he got up to when summoned in the past!

A564.

After a short while, he will self-destruct, and not long after that, the arms of Apacci and the others will grow back.

Q565.

2024.01.08

Due to the actions of PePe Waccabrada, Shūhei and Byakuya fought each other, but Byakuya behaved as if he were trying to avoid hurting Shūhei as much as possible. Personally, I think that Byakuya before he met Ichigo would have killed Shūhei. It might be presumptuous of me to talk about Byakuya like I understand him, but as I read on, I feel that Byakuya's views and personality have changed. What do you think?

A565.

I think you're right.

Q566.

2024.01.08

What time does sensei wake up every morning?

A566.

I've been quite busy lately, so ten o'clock. I can't even watch Love It! in real time anymore….

Q567.

2024.01.15

Was it because her five older brothers had passed away that Soi Fon succeeded as the head of Fon family? Or is there some kind of custom where a woman always becomes the head in the Fon family like a "queen bee".

A567.

The strongest person in that generation becomes the head of the family, regardless of gender.

Q568.

2024.01.15

I would like to know the Shikai abilities of the three seated officers of the 3rd Division who were instantly killed by Bazz-B in volume 56!

A568.

Those abilities which never got a chance to be showcased are a secret because I may use them somewhere else.

Q569.

2024.01.15

Kubo-sensei, you mentioned that you draw illustrations on the larger iPad pro, so I also want to try an iPad for the first time, but looking back do you ever feel like… there is something about it that could have been done better? Additionally, I would like to hear about the types of brushes you use in Clip Studio Paint when line drawing and when adding color, and also how you divide your drawing into layers!!!!

A569.

I hope it becomes lighter. As for pens, I often use a pen called Kasure Kashi (*machine translated as “Casper pen” in Clip Studio) and for brushes I use one called Muk01. I separate the layers depending on my mood.

Q570.

2024.01.22

I would like to know the name of the technique that was used when Kirinji Tenjirō got behind Soi Fon. Although she's supposed to have top-class speed among the Gotei 13, Soi Fon couldn't read his movements at all, thinking "what was that move just now…!" Is this because the Hohō used by Kirinji Tenjirō was not "Shunpo"?

A570.

It's the same Shunpo. Shunpo consists of a three stage process: Joritsu, Bakkyaku and Shunpo. Tenjirō is incredibly skilled at the second stage, "Bakkyaku", which allows him to achieve unbelievable speeds. ×[2]

Q571.

2024.01.22

Can't Orihime heal Izuru's body?

A571.

She may be able to heal him, but Izuru probably likes it that way….

Q572.

2024.01.22

Did sensei have any involvement in selecting the songs and characters for Burikon: Bleach Concept Covers? Also, is there one in particular that you liked among the Burikon covers?

A572.

I wasn't involved at all, but I remember liking Mayuri and Nemu's part.

Q573.

2024.01.29

What material is the Substitute Shinigami Badge made of? I want to make one myself as perfectly as I possibly can, so please tell me what it would look like in reality! 

A573.

The Substitute's Badge is made of metal. Iron would be too heavy for something of that size, so maybe aluminum would be a closer fit…?

Q574.

2024.01.29

Does Ise Nanao wear glasses because her eyesight has deteriorated by reading too many books? Or is it that the Ise clan are by nature a family with poor eyesight?

A574.

It's a family with poor eyesight.

Q575.

2024.01.29

In volume 62, Urahara-san mentioned that the Quincy are "a race that have no 'antibodies' at all to defend against Hollows." However, Ishida Uryū was at the receiving end of Fornicarás's abilities during his battle with Szayelaporro, and he had his lower arm torn off by Ulquiorra. Was this at a level that is not applicable to the "erosion" that Urahara-san talks about? Or is Uryū special?

A575.

Uryū is special.

Q576.

2024.02.05

Why does Akon have horns on his head?

A576.

They're implants (transdermal implants).

Q577.

2024.02.05

Dordoni, Cirucci, Luppi and Chuhlhourne were all revived at the hands of Mayuri-sama, but while the former three had suture marks on their faces, Chuhlhourne is the only one who had suture marks on his abdomen, is this perhaps the benevolence of Mayuri-sama? 

A577.

I too looked at and thought "who knew Mayuri could be so kind!" 

Q578.

2024.02.05

In the scene where Ichigo is taught the Final Getsuga Tenshō by Tensa Zangetsu, Ichigo is told "you feared taking on this form in which your mind is suppressed by your own destructive impulses, and as a result you've even become incapable of properly Hollowfying." However, if he were able to Hollowfy properly, would he have been able to manifest the mask with horns that covered his entire face as shown in the battle against Ulquiorra?

A578.

If he were able to "properly" Hollowfy, then he would take on that form.

Q579.

2024.02.12

While in the Dangai, what mechanism did Ulquiorra use to show Orihime the situation in the Human World as images via Garganta?

A579.

There's no lore about this at all!! What kind of system is it!? Ulquiorra!!?

Q580.

2024.02.12

Among the spirits of her Shun Shun Rikka, the ability belonging to Orihime, Tsubaki is the only one who is rebellious towards his master. Is that a reaction stemming from Orihime's dislike of conflict and hurting others given her personality? Tsubaki is her only means of attack, but Orihime does not want to use him too actively. Deep down, she hesitates (fears) to attack her opponent, that is, she unconsciously rejects her means of attack, which contradicts the reason for Tsubaki's existence, and I thought for a moment that maybe he was irritated by that fact.

A580.

That's correct. How impressive, I didn't expect someone to read so deeply into Rikka like this. 

Q581.

2024.02.12

Regarding Orihime's ability, Shun Shun Rikka: Sōten Kisshun, it is weak at recovering Reiryoku because Sōten Kisshun is based on the rejection of events and Orihime rejects the form of a wounded individual, in other words, the underlying force is her desire to restore their condition to its original state, to make it out as though it never happened, could another reason be that it's difficult for her to recognize how much intangible Reiryoku needs to be recovered? Is it that Shun Shun Rikka's abilities come from Orihime's own feelings of rejection and denial, or to put it another way, does it stem from wanting things to be a certain way? 

A581.

You are more or less correct. The things that can be restored with Sōten Kisshun are, for the most part, what is visible to the eyes and what can be touched with the hands.

Q582.

2024.02.19

Kubo-sensei, is there a character in BLEACH that you consider to be closest to you in terms of your own personality? 

A582.

There isn't. No one that I draw resembles me!

Q583.

2024.02.19

When Kūkaku sends Ichigo to the Soul King Palace in the Thousand-Year Blood War arc, she appears to be aware of the connection between Ichigo and Isshin saying "even if it means making uncle sad." Did Kūkaku somehow sense this, or was there some interaction between her and the Shiba clan or Shinigami she was acquainted with in places that are not depicted within the story, after the situation with Aizen was resolved, for instance? 

A583.

Kūkaku has been aware of this through Ichigo's Reiatsu since the beginning (volume 9). That's why she let Ganju go with him. Of course, she also received a message from Kisuke at a later time.

Q584.

2024.02.19

The masks of Loly Aivirrne and Menoly Mallia appear to have a design that forms a pair with the left and right eyes, perhaps they are Arrancar with a relationship like that of twin sisters?

A584.

Although these two are not sisters, they have taken a sisterly vow and shaved down their masks in order to resemble each other.

Q585.

2024.02.26

I believe there are works which publish illustrations drawn by readers in the tankōbon of the manga. Bleach didn't have that, but is it that you have a certain preference towards your own tankōbon, Kubo-sensei?

A585.

As a child, I was the type of kid who thought "I didn't buy this to see drawings from readers" when looking at the illustration segment of the manga I used to read, so I didn't do it with my own manga. However, I have kept all the illustrations that were sent to me during the series.

Q586.

2024.02.26

The Captains of the Zero Division are each given one of the five cities atop the Zeroban Riden (*the disc-like structures which are their estates), but if the number of Zero Division captains increased, will a new Zeroban Riden be added? Or is the capacity for Captains limited to 5 individuals in accordance with the number of Zeroban Riden?

A586.

The upper limit is 5 people.

Q587.

2024.02.26

What does the "chain" in Tensa Zangetsu (*Heavenly Chain Slaying Moon) represent? Is it the Chain of Fate? 

A587.

"Tensa" means "to lock the heavens", and it's a chain used to link and secure two things together.

Q588.

2024.03.04

What material is the black part of Riruka's clothes made of?

A588.

It's stretch cotton.

Q589.

2024.03.04

I would like to know the nationality of the Sternritter!!!

A589.

In order to avoid a fixed nationality for the group as a whole, I name them in a way which appears to contain spellings from various regions.

Q590.

2024.03.04

In what way did Yamamoto and Unohana come to meet?

A590.

I might draw it someday, so it's a secret.

Q591.

2024.03.11

In his KaraBuri profile, it is noted that the food Hisagi dislikes is sea urchin, but where did he eat it? Or perhaps he came to dislike it because he was teased about the fact that his hairstyle resembles a sea urchin?

A591.

He ruined it for himself after eating the cheap sea urchin he could afford on his salary.

Q592.

2024.03.11

When Rangiku woke up from Hakufuku, she said "this sensation… it's Hakufuku…" I don't think there were many instances of fellow Shinigami fighting each other in Soul Society before Aizen's rebellion, so it seems unlikely she'd recognize the sensation of being put under Hakufuku. Could it be that she is acquainted with the feeling because Shinigami experience it during their time at the Shin'ō Academy in Kidō classes?

A592.

They experience this in class, but Rangiku also has the experience of falling victim to it. 

Q593.

2024.03.11

In the Thousand-Year Blood War arc, I believe Captain Komamura takes on a human-like form through the Humanization Technique, however, did he suddenly turn into a wolf after the battle because the technique's time limit had expired? Or is it because Captain Komamura himself was consumed by a desire for revenge? If the reason is the latter, is it correct to assume that as long as Komamura had maintained good intentions such as "protecting Soul Society", he wouldn't have turned into a wolf?

A593.

You are pretty much correct. The "Humanization Technique" is a technique that allows him to maintain a human form while withstanding his great-grandfather's curse. The moment the purpose of Humanization becomes a selfish desire, the curse is forcibly fulfilled, and one transforms into a beast.

Q594.

2024.03.18

No matter how many times I read the manga, I still don't quite understand the relationship between Nelliel and Nnoitra. I would like you to explain it in a way that even an idiot can understand. 

A594.

Even if you don't understand, it doesn't mean you're stupid. Just enjoy it when you do understand.

Q595.

2024.03.18

If "Qualkreis" is broadly classified as a Quincy tactic, could it also be considered one of the Kirchenlied? Please let me know if there is any lore around this.

A595.

"Qualkreis" is one of the Quincy spells. "Kirchenlied" is not a classification, but a "chant" for "Sankt Zwinger".

Q596.

2024.03.18

During the Decisive Battle of Karakura Town, is it because of an illusion created by Kyōka Suigetsu that Mashiro's mask broke away without her noticing the depletion of her own Reiatsu? 

A596.

It's because Mashiro is just that kind of person who would allow a slip-up like that to happen.

Q597.

2024.03.25

Izuru was quite cheerful during his student days, so why did his personality become gloomy?

A597.

Wait, he was cheerful…? Izuru has been gloomy since the minute he was born.

Q598.

2024.03.25

Captain Unohana named herself "Yachiru", but her current name "Retsu", is that originally her real name? Or is it that, after becoming "Yachiru", she named herself once again, this time to "Retsu"?

A598.

"Retsu" is the name given to her by her father.

Q599.

2024.03.25

After absorbing Ayon, Quilge's appearance steadily returns to its original form, but could this be because his Heiligenschein was destroyed by Ichigo, causing the abilities of his Vollständig to gradually wear off?

A599.

It's because his Heiligenschein was destroyed and thus his "Piskiel" collapsed. The essence of Quilge's "Piskiel" ability lies in the fact that he has the highest capacity for the capture and enslavement of Reishi among all Quincy.

Q600.

2024.04.01

I'm debating whether or not I should have my son take lessons in English conversation. Is sensei able to speak English? 

A600.

Since being able to speak English is an advantage, please allow him to learn it. I can't speak it myself, though.

Translation Footnotes:

×1. Staging in this context means staging of the frenzied screen/sound effects of the roulette for stirring up the gambling spirit of players.

×2. These are terms which appear to be coined by Kubo: 序立(じょりつ) - "Joritsu" means "opening stance". 抜脚(ばっきゃく) - "Bakkyaku" means "to draw out one's leg", and judging by the way we use 抜 in other terms, it alludes momentum that is created suddenly and rapidly by lifting or drawing out one's leg from the starting position. For example: the word Battōjutsu (抜刀術) - “the art of drawing out one's sword”, that is, getting the sword into action as quickly as possible in response to a sudden attack or some other situation which requires the rapid drawing of one's sword. I believe Bakkyaku is a similar concept except in the context of Hohō as opposed to swords. 

[gallusrostromegalus]

I love everything you are doing with Orihime, if it's not too much troble, I wanted to hear more of what she does when she get kidnapped. Also did Rukia try anything when she got sentenced to death for bulshit crimes? It's been forever since I read the manga, so I don't remember what rukia was feeling exactly during this time, if she accepted the whole thing bc she has spent way too much time in the soul society that she just didn't see it how much bulshit it was or something else, or if it was just your standard damsel in distress thing

Rukia behaves in the calm, rational but firm way you'd expect out of a seated officer, especially a lieutenant that earned her position through hard work and demonstration after demonstration that she could be trusted with such a position.

...Byakuya, on the other hand, was appointed to his position by birthright as the latest scion of a long but narrow line of people who retained their power by violence as social standing. So when Byakuya experiences the psychotic crisis of "the people you respect the most want the person you love the most dead", the coinflip of his emotions lands on tails in AEIWAM.

*****

"...To Death?" She asked, staring at Renji.

"Yeah." He winced, shifting uncomfortably.

"...For a Misdemeanor Infraction that, per code 3.15.27846 sub-section 42-4, carries a MAXIMUM penalty of a month's suspension without pay while a performance review is conducted, and, pending the review, possible termination of my job, not my whole person?" She continued.

"...Um. Yeah, yeah that's the official rules per the Shingami Legal Manual." Said Renji. "It's real fuc- it's very peculiar and I'm honestly not sure what to make of it. Also, when did you learn to quote the manual like-"

"I'm a Goddamn Lieutenant, I know the law, and this stinks on ice." She glared. "I know I'm not allowed to question the orders or ask who issued them, but did you double-check that this is, in fact, what they meant to send, and didn't give you the memo for someone else or send out the wrong butterfly?"

"Um." Renji winced, pointedly studying the wall to his left. "Kuchiki-Taicho went to do that as soon as he saw the order."

Rukia blanched. "Renji. When did he leave?"

"He left for the central 46's liaison office directly from the 6th division's office when we got the order about an hour ago. I wanted to go with him, but he insisted that he could handle it and that you should get the news from me rather than a stranger."

"Abarai Renji." She spoke, voice low and dangerous. "Do you remember what happened the first day I came home from the 13th division boot camp with that shiner?'

"Yeah, Kuchiki-taicho broke into Ukitake-taicho's house with Senbonsakura at 2AM because he thought someone had hit yo-" Renji laughed then stopped. "-Oh."

"You let my brother, the absolute last person you can expect to behave in a rational and restrained manner to any perceived threats to my person, go off to visit someone who just issued an order for my extermination? UNSUPERVISED?" She growled.

Renji stood, paralyzed in wide-eyed horror. "I. uh. I gotta go prevent some treason." he sputtered, before bolting from the room.

***** "I fucked up, I fucked up, I fucked uuuuuup-" Gin hissed under his breath as he ran through the maze of buildings that made up the central government's compound. "Sure Gin! Keep feeding him spiritual power Gin! It'll fix everything Gin! No way he's going to cause a massive inter-dimensional destabilization event Gin!"

He turned the corner to the central 46's liaison office, just to the side of the sealed gate, and sprinted for the small office at the base of the tower all Hell butterflies issued from, where the Gate's security guard and the Liaison worked.

"Hey guys sorry to burst in here but it's kind of an Emergen... cy." Gin shouted and then sputtered as something warm splashed underfoot. He looked down to find that the previously-beige carpet of the Liaison's office was now a deep and unpleasantly wet crimson. Behind him, there was a faint creak as the unsealed and unguarded gate swayed lightly in the breeze.

"Oh." Gin realized, wilting. "I'm in deep shit."

[recurring-polynya]

Procrastinating from writing my fanfic to ponder this question: Which lieutenants are good at math?

Sasakibe: He's fine. Really enjoys writing out long columns of numbers in his fancy-ass handwriting. Is the primary reason that the Gotei made the shift to Arabic numerals for math, against Yamamoto's vehement objections.

Omaeda: Absolutely not.

Kira: Too gay to do math.

Isane: In a high-pressure situation, like emergency surgery, can crunch numbers like a calculator. Can also do math fine if she's in a quiet place and can concentrate. If she has do math in her head during a low-stakes interaction with people watching (say, calculating a tip...do they do tips in Soul Society??), gets completely flustered and loses track of what she's trying to do.

Momo: Perfectly competent, took all the higher level courses at the Academy.

Renji: Oddly good at math, but pretends he's not. Can add stacks of numbers in his head, took all the same school courses as Momo and claims she carried his ass, which is absolutely not true.

Iba: Doesn't like it and is not good at it, but slogs through and always double checks his own work. Is not too proud to ask Renji to calculate things for him.

Nanao: Fantastically good at it, including topics in pure mathematics like formal proof and number theory (I assume this kind of stuff has application to kidou, particularly the creation of). Has authored numerous monographs.

Shuuhei: Severe dyscalculia. :( It's okay, he's got many other fine qualities and he's pretty.

Matsumoto: Pretty decent at it, especially calculating things in her head. Like, Renji, pretends to be bad at it, but she does it to get out of being given work (he does it for image-related reasons). She makes mistakes in her paperwork because she gets bored with it and doesn't like to check her work, plus she knows Hitsugaya is gonna check it anyway. She says she leaves the mistakes in "for his enrichment."

Ikkaku: Marginally better at math than he is at spelling, but that's saying basically nothing.

Yumichika (included here because he actually keeps the books at Squad 11): Very competent and detail oriented. Also enjoys his own handwriting. Not above using his accounting skills in slightly unethical ways.

Nemu: This goes without saying.

Akon: Compared to other people on this list, he's a genius, but does not consider himself a "math guy" by Squad 12 standards. Extremely well versed in applied math and statistics, but those are just tools for doing his other work, y'know? Would always rather write a script or make a spreadsheet than actually calculate a thing himself.

Kiyone and Sentaro: Oh, no. Oh, dear.

Rukia: Decent, but it's not her favorite. Also not too proud to ask Renji to calculate things for her.

[animeloverskylarmoon]

Ichigo Kurosaki (Bleach) - Extra 1

It’s been a few weeks since the incident and you feel much lighter. 

You’re also very grateful for Byakuya’s intervention. While he’s very curt with his words and orders, there’s that underlying care that’s forever present. Like whenever he’s around Rukia. Her rank as a Head Captain demands respect, you know that’s why he tends to stick closer. Regardless of how much her abilities have improved, he’s still rather protective of her. 

“Kuchiki-taicho, is there anything else?” 

He shook his head, and Rukia smiled, placing her cup of tea down. 

“You’ve gotten stronger.” 

You blinked, cheeks flushing as you scratched your head. 

“I-I guess so.” 

You’re still getting the hang of controlling said strength. Renji is grinning from his spot and from the look you know he’s about to say something stupid. But the door before you slides open aggressively. 

“WHY THE HELL WON’T YOU GUYS KEEP KENPACHI ON A LEASH!!” 

It’s Ichigo. 

His robes are torn and from the bruises on his cheek, it’s clear he’d made a narrow escape. Rukia looks ready to scold him for his intrusion, but his eyes turn in your direction and he straightens. You’re just sort of staring. While you’re no longer cowering at the sight of him, there’s still a level of intrigue when he does show up. 

“It’s you again..” 

He murmurs. 

You’re once again a bit flustered. You were hoping the next time he showed up you would be more sure, helpful. After all, you owed him at least that much. You’re not sure how to really act, and you just end up bowing. 

“O-Ohaiyo Kurosaki Ichigo!!” 

He sweat drops at the manner of address. 

“Just Ichigo is fine.” 

“Hai, Kurosaki-san.” 

“Ichigo.” 

“Hai!!” 

You still haven’t straightened and he just sighs. Rukia looks a bit relieved, and Byakuya watches silently. 

“You look like crap, you should head over to Hanataro.” Renji advises. Ichigo just looks annoyed and when you rise, you notice that he does look a bit worse for wear. Knowing Kenpachi he probably tossed him around before he managed to get away. 

You realize now that he’ll be off again and you haven’t fully apologized or made up for what happened. 

“This is my chance!” 

“I-I can escort you over Kurosaki-san!” 

Your determination is a bit alarming. 

“I-It’s fine. I know how to get there.” 

He takes a step, but you block his path. 

“Please! Let me escort you!” 

It’s clear that you won’t take no for an answer. Ichigo relents. 

“Fine.” 

He grumbles. 

Your eyes light up as you turn back to Byakuya. 

“I will return with him fully healed Taicho.” 

“I expect nothing less.” Byakuya states. 

You beam, moving back to Ichigo. 

“Let’s go.” 

Ichigo is about to step forward, but he’s startled when you lift him and heave him over your shoulder. 

“W-What the hell!!” 

“You’re injured, leave it to me!!” 

Before he has a chance to complain, you’re gone. Renji just snickers. 

“That poor idiot, now he’ll never get rid of her.” 

That was in fact very true. 

After that encounter, you were stuck to his side throughout every visit. You were keen to know the days he would drop by and you were the first person he would see when stepping out of the gate. You made a habit of getting there before Kenpachi to avoid past situations. 

Ichigo understood that you were just trying to be helpful, apologize, but it seemed that you’d taken it completely to heart. For the next few months with every visit, you were like a maid at his beck and call. He wasn’t sure how to respond, because you’d say outrageous things with a straight face. 

“You look tired, would you like me to carry you?” 

“Your robes are torn, let me sew it for you!” 

“If Kenpachi ambushes you again I will gladly be a decoy and withstand any injury, even death if necessary!” 

“Please let me check your body, you might have other injuries!”

He wasn’t sure how to act. The most recent visit he decided against telling anyone. He just showed up hoping to avoid the hassle. Unfortunately he wasn’t as slick as he thought. He managed one step before you were right in front of him. 

“I knew I felt your reiatsu crossing through the gate. You should be careful, Kurosaki-san. I would hate for you to run into someone like Zaraki-taicho.” 

Running into the crazed reaper felt almost better at the moment. 

“I’ll be fine.” 

He stepped around you and you just trailed behind with a smile. 

There was a part of him that knew he should be happy, after all, you weren’t running away from him or looking at him like he was some monster. The circumstances should be a relief, but at the back of his mind he couldn’t fight the feeling that it was all just a way to make up for it. Even the moments with you that he did enjoy, like when you both stopped by Jushiro’s for a treat.

“Ukitake-taicho this is delicious!” 

You were eating the soup hurriedly. 

“Oii! Slow down, it's hot!” 

Ichigo’s scolding words made you look up with a blink. There was a small piece of beef stuck to your cheek and he reached over with a napkin wiping it off. It was instinctive, at the time it felt no different from what he did for his sisters when they were younger, however the smile you sent him had caught him off guard. 

Your cheeks were red, whether from the steamy meal or your general enjoyment of it all. 

At that moment, all he wanted was to see that again. The pure joy you seem to emit. You looked so carefree and it left a warmth in his chest. 

He didn’t realize how much he appreciated your crazy presence until that moment. That’s why your attentiveness was disheartening, because it wasn’t for him, not really. It was some obligation towards a situation you felt guilty about. 

He stopped abruptly and you did too.

“Is something wrong Kurosaki-san?” 

“You can leave now, I know how to get to the barracks without causing an issue.” 

“It’s really no problem, I’m happy to-” 

“No.”

His tone was firm and he still wouldn’t fully look at you. 

“I’ve got it from here.” 

With a blink, he was gone, flash stepping away. You just stared, a bit unsure of what you’d done because he was clearly upset about something. 

Now without any tasks, you just drifted back to your squad. You tried to rid it from your mind, but it wouldn’t leave you. After an hour or two of moving aimlessly in the sixth squad, you intended to pay Rukia a visit, if nothing but to walk Ichigo back. 

“He’s already left.” 

Rukia’s words confused you because he always came to see you before he would head back. Now you were certain you’d done something wrong. 

You couldn’t leave things like this. 

There was only one thing to do. 

~Karakura Town~

“That was a quick trip, did they get tired of you?” 

Jinta was laughing boisterously. He expected a retaliation, but Ichigo just walked past him. 

“See you later Kisuke.”

He exited the shop, heading down the street. In the back of his mind he understood that it was childish to leave without even telling you, but he couldn’t get his mind to stop thinking about it. 

“Is your hair really natural?” 

“You’re really nice even though you look scary.” 

“T-This candy is melting in my mouth, it's delicious!”

“Don’t worry, I’m sure Zaraki-taicho just really respects your ability, that’s why he tries to kill you every chance he gets.” 

These were all things that you’ve said to him, moments he’d shared. With how crazy your first meeting was, he supposed it made you unapologetically honest, and there was a part of him that appreciated the transparency. 

It just made it harder for him.

The sound of your call was forever engraved in his mind and more than anything, he just wanted it to be more. 

He wanted more.

“Kurosaki-san?

“Kurosaki-san..” 

“Kurosaki-san!!!

The last call had him blinking and he was surprised when you dropped right in front of him. 

“I found you Kurosaki-san! Why didn’t you say goodbye? Is everything alright? Were you injured by Zaraki-taicho again?” 

You moved to check and he stepped back, this time glaring. 

“You don’t have to keep chasing after me, I know you just feel guilty.” 

From your expression it's clear you weren’t expecting that. You seemed hurt, and he immediately regretted it. With a soft exhale, he turned. 

“Forget about it. Just go back.” 

He intended to disappear again, if nothing but to save face. It was wrong to take it out on you, but he was agitated. You following him all the way here was just proof that whatever this was would never be genuine. 

Just as he planned to leave, you grabbed his sleeve and he halted. 

“I-It’s not just guilt.”

Your lips quivered and Ichigo looked down. 

“W-We’re friends aren’t we?” 

You sounded like it would break your heart if he said otherwise. He felt the uncomfortable twist in his gut, because the last thing he wanted was to make you feel bad. He fully turned and you released his shirt. 

You weren’t sure what you were expecting, but a hug wasn’t it. Your eyes were wide, face partially buried into his chest. He was holding you so tightly, and when you felt the soft breath he let out, you found your body relaxing. There was just something right about being this close to him. 

“We’re friends.” 

He finally spoke, and your eyes watered as you returned the hug. 

[firebirdsdaughter]

Also…

… Just bc I feel bad saying I was lukewarm about him in my other tags… I do like Ichigo. He's one of the more well rounded shonen protags in that he's actually allowed to fail from time to time and while he's overly powerful, isn't treated as the super ultimate power, necessarily. He just happens to be a weird chimera of powers that allows him to to do things people of one aspect can't necessarily do.

And he doesn't insist he's the most powerful either. Him chronically trying to help everyone is his nature, not him looking down on them. He respects the powers of all the Captains and his friends, he just wants to help.

And everyone else is allowed to be strong, too. Kenpachi is an absolute wild card, and I think Byakuya's also up there (not favouritism, I swear—okay, maybe a little bit) if he's fighting without being conflicted (I've come to theorise that first big fight between them would have gone on longer/differently except Byakuya didn't really have his heart in it, he'd just convinced himself he did), Hitsugaya's got a massively powerful sword and he's probably just going to keep getting stronger. Renji and Rukia achieve their own bankais and defeat enemies on their own. Ikkaku and Yumichika are no slouches, either. Despite some questionable writing, Orihime is allowed to be strong as well, having powerful defence and healing abilities, and her kindness is often treated as a strength. Her having no killing intent isn't treated as a bad thing. You've got Shunsui, Ukitake, and bloody Yamato in the mix. Uryuu fights on even footing with plenty of super powered enemies, and though he does go out of focus, Chad is never made out to be the weakest or anything.

Like I liked that in the end, they defeated the overpowered invincible big bad through teamwork the Old Men Brigade set things up, and then even Ichigo couldn't get a hit in until Uryuu used what their fathers made to help (and I'm glad that it was Ichigo and Uryuu working together, bc that was super poetic).

I'm just rambling now, but the point is, Ichigo is a good example of making powerful protag who doesn't (always) come off as too overpowered.

It's often treated as more he happened to be the right combination of things or the right circumstances to prevail. Wasn't hypnotised, already had a little hollow in him, is just really bloody stubborn. He's also just a nice guy! He cares about people he befriends and will work his ass off to help them bc that's his belief.

Anyway, to complete in another direction (sort of), I was thinking about this bc of how when he reaches the Soul Society in the blood war arc, the first thing he does after getting Akon to help is go to see Byakuya. Probably bc he saw that Rukia and Renji were unconscious and Byakuya was fading, and probably knew he'd want to now they were alive, but like. While they're not personally very close, I do think Byakuya is one of the Captains Ichigo is closest to bc he's so close w/ Rukia and Renji. Just by virtue of that, he'll end up interacting w/ Byakuya more often. And he does respect him (I think he got over the 'I'll kill you' the moment Byakuya took Gin's sword for Rukia). He goes to check on him, and reassures him that Rukia and Renji are alive, even saying 'don't worry.' Like I said before, I totally think he would have lied there, if they hadn't been, bc he'd be well aware that information would completely break Byakuya. He thinks he's dying, he wouldn't leave him thinking he'd completely failed to protect them. But more to the point, he doesn't respond after Byakuya talks about how ashamed he is and begs him to help. He responds to the first question, but goes silent after that. And…

I love tranquil fury. I love it. I love this moment bc Ichigo's already fuming from sensing/hearing everyone being hurt. He's already super pissed. But to me there's some thing about the way he goes silent during that talk that feels like a switch is well and truly flipped at that moment. After that, he doesn't stop or pass go, just heads directly to Yhwach and is clearly completely enraged.

Bc until then, there's been a little bit of distance. He's angry bc he could hear it, he's even angrier when he gets in there and sees what's happening, but then he goes over to Byakuya and has one of the strongest, proudest, most level headed and noble people he knows break down in tears and beg him, while apparently dying, for help. The one who had previously told him that none of the Captains would ever need his help.

And that just hits the unstoppable rage button.

[celebratebleach]

I apologise for how long it took to post this, but a big thank you to everyone who participated in this year's BLEACH Anime Celebration! If you haven't already, check out this year's entries:

Day 1: Before the war / Stars / Teamwork

Before the war by @bigjumpervibes [fanart featuring Ichigo Kurosaki, Orihime Inoue, Sado 'Chad' Yasutora, Uryu Ichida, and Rukia Kuchiki] Stars by @my0vershareworld [fanart featuring Askin Nakk le Varr] Stars(fanart) and Stars (fanfiction) by @toshiro-taichou [fanart and fanfiction feautring Toushiro Hitsugaya, renruki, Ichika Abarai, and Rangiku Matsumoto] Omaeda by badluckdog [fanfiction featuring Omaeda Marechiyo and Sui Feng]

Day 2: Warm tones / Scar / Underneath the sycramore

Scar by @bigjumpervibes [fanart featuring Shuhei Hisagi] Warm Tones by @my0vershareworld [fanart featuring Askin Nakk le Varr] Scar (fanart) and Scar (fanfiction) by @toshiro-taichou [fanart and fanfiction featuring Toushiro Hitsugaya, Ichigo Kurosaki, and Hiyori Sarugaki] The Shinigami Women's Association by badluckdog [fanfiction featuring Isane Kotetsu, Rukia Kuchiki, Iemura Yasochika, Rangiku Matsumoto, and Momo Hinamori]

Day 3: An unlikely duo / Poem / The high school warfare

The High School Warfare by @bigjumpervibes [fanart featuring the Visoreds] The High School Warfare (fanart) and The High School Warfare (fanfiction) by @toshiro-taichou [fanart and fanfcition featuring oc] An Unlikely Duo by @my0vershareworld [fanart featuring As Nodt and Askin Nakk le Varr] The High School Warfare by @jushiro-ukitake [fanart featuring Sado 'Chad' Yasutora, Tatsuki Arisawa, Orihime Inoue, Momo Hinamori, Rangiku Matsumoto, and Rukia Kuchiki] Yasochika by badluckdog [fanfiction featuring Iemura Yasochika, Renji Abarai, Rukia Kuchiki, and Ikkaku Madarame]

Day 4: Classic / Protect / Inspired by a song

Protect by @bigjumpervibes [fanart featuring Orihime Inoue and Neliel tu Odelshwanck] Classic by @my0vershareworld [fanart featuring Askin Nakk le Varr] Inspired by a song (fanart) and Inspired by a song (fanfiction) by @toshiro-taichou [fanart and fanfiction featuring oc]

Day 5: Heart / Hobbies / Let’s discuss this over drinks

Heart by @bigjumpervibes [fanart featuring Riruka Dokugamine] Hobbies by @recurring-polynya [fanart featuring Renji Abarai, Tetsuzaemon Iba, Isane Kotetsu, Retsu Unohana, Momo Hinamori, Nanao Ise, Rangiku Matsumoto, Toushiro Hitsugaya, Kenpachi Zaraki, and Kaien Shiba] Heart by @my0vershareworld [fanart featuring Askin Nakk le Varr] Hobbies by @toshiro-taichou [fanart featuring Toushiro Hitsugaya and ocs]

Day 6: Saihate / Animals / Battle

Battle by @toshiro-taichou [fanart featuring ocs] Animals by @my0vershareworld [fanart featuring Askin Nakk le Varr] Battle by @bigjumpervibes [fanart featuring Yachiru Unohana]

Day 7: Always by your side / Betrayal / History

Always by your side by @jushiro-ukitake [fanart featuring Ichihime, Tatsuki Arisawa, and Kazui Kurosaki] Always by Your Side/Betrayal/History by @recurring-polynya [fanfiction feautring renruki] History by @bigjumpervibes [fanart feautring Shinji Hirako] Always by your side by by @my0vershareworld [fanart featuring Askin Nakk le Varr]

Day 8: Hope / Vacation / In remembrance

In rememberance by by by @my0vershareworld [fanart featuring Askin Nakk le Varr x oc] Vacation by @bigjumpervibes [fanart featuring Gin Ichimaru]

If I have missed any entries, please tell me ASAP so I can add them here.

Depending on when the next cour is set to release, I may end up doing this event again. In the meantime, if you have any ideas for what we could do as a community to celebrate and create for BLEACH, don't be afraid the message me!

In the meantime, thank you again everyone!

[professorsparklepants]

Welcome to Fanfic I Won't Write Fridays, where I talk about fanfic I won't write

Today is bleach: part 2! Now instead of genderbending we are doing my other favorite trope, role reversal! This is an au where Karin is the one with shinigami powers and it's explicitly a magical girl anime instead of just borrowing heavily from them.

ichigo went missing 1-2 years ago on the anniversary of their mother's death, and the kurosakis are barely coping.

when Karin accidentally steals someone's shinigami powers, Yuzu is present and also in danger from the hollow -- more, even, than Karin, which is why she jumps in to help in the first place

I was considering using toshiro as the rukia substitute because I think that anime only crack ship is HYSTERICAL but the more I thought about it the more I wanted it to be someone in Rukia or Renji's age group, to have them stepping into and fumbling around to try and fill Ichigo's role in the family. It'd be a great way to emphasize some of the obvious parentification Ichigo went through from an outside lens.

(however toshiro DOES eventually get sent undercover at Karin & Yuzu's school because he's one of the handful of shinigami young enough to pass. And it is VERY FUNNY.)

Ishida inserts himself into the story eventually no matter what but I do still want Chad and Orihime in here. Chad was already friends with Ichigo so I can see him coming by to check on the Kurosakis, and maybe vice versa since they know he lives alone. Orihime might befriend them *after* the incident with her hollow brother.

I just find it funny to imagine this group of high schoolers being the point guard for a middle school girl who's a foot shorter than them. Karin and Yuzu have their own friends and Ururu and Jinta would probably feature more prominently, it's just very funny to me to imagine Karin leading a group of high schoolers who are all a foot taller than her.

Hueco Mundo arc is where it gets spicy because the REASON Ichigo is missing is because he's become Aizen's amnesiac arrancar science experiment. Imagine Grimmjow's introduction but instead of some new guy punching their arm through your friend's abdomen it's your missing older brother who RAISED you, except now he seems to be dead and a bad guy and looks at you like you're a stranger.

Yuzu might eventually awaken her Quincy powers because of the [makes twinkly hand movements to symbolize the reality warping object i can't spell] so we can have a full sibling set of hollow/quincy/shinigami going. I like my trinities too much to pass that up.

Why I won't write it: AGAIN, I have not read bleach since I was 13, and a lot of this would involve filtering bleach's worldbuilding through the lens of a different genre that I don't have enough experience in to properly pull off.

[substituted-shinigami]

Stray Holiday

Forty dog years ago, two stray pups tried to celebrate the holidays the best they could. 

Hello again, everyone!☺️ It has been a bit of time, hasn't it? I took last week off, which was great for resting and coming up with new ideas! Until of course, I stopped resting to execute those ideas.😅 But, oh well! 

In this AU, I imagine both Rukia and Renji started out as strays, with Rukia getting adopted by a rich family later on. I haven't decided too much about their separate owners yet, it depends on if they make an actual appearance, a "peanuts" appearance (often referenced, but never physically appear), or just an assumed reality without ever being mentioned!👍👍👍

More Bleach Dog AU art: The Stray, 6th Division, Senzaikyū, Beach Day, Dog Show

More about this piece and an end-of-year note from me underneath the cut!

Originally, this idea was going to be a written piece for Rukia's birthday. I was trying to think of what Renji might get her, and remembered that Rukia liked eggs, something that they might actually be able to find in Rukongai. It also worked well for the Bleach Dog AU, so I decided to put the ideas together. I moved it up for the holidays though, because my original holiday piece wasn't working out, so I swapped them. I had to do a little rewriting, but I think it worked out.

I tried a lot of new art ideas for this piece. Some of them worked, some of them less so. I like the general idea of the gradients, but they didn't end up blending as well as I hoped. Well, except for the pink one which became all one color. 😅 Oh well, I think I was able to get the mood across with them, which was the main idea for them to begin with. 

Well, that's it, y'all! Happy Holidays to all who celebrate, and to all of us, a GOOD NIGHT!🥳😴(I could certainly use the sleep, haha!) Thank you all for being such a good community and a special thank you to the RenRuki discord I'm a part of!☺️  You all have been so wonderful to me, and have made my crummy year way better.🥰 I will see you all next year for RenRuki week!✌️

[renjirukia]

i could never keep up with bleach during it's og run battles are way too tedious to follow one chapter a week (fake karakura arc im looking at you👁️👁️) and tybw was no different i stopped caring after rukia and byakuya had their big moment and then checked in every one in a while to see what renji and rukia were up to

[reikorun]

KlubOutside Q&A 201-300 [Translation]

Translated by @reikorun

Q201.

2021.09.20

I like Luppi. I was absolutely overjoyed when Luppi made an appearance as a playable character in Blade Battlers 2nd which was released on PS2. In this game, Luppi's arms transform into tentacles and he could extend them to attack. I was surprised because there was no such depiction in the original work. Did sensei also supervise the settings for attacks in this game?

A201. 

I can't recall so I probably didn't touch it. Luppi fighting with outstretched arms is so entertaining to me. I think that outlaw kind of feeling is one of the greatest qualities about games back then.

Q202.

2021.09.20

Of all the characters you have drawn, which one did sensei consider the most difficult to design?

A202. 

Shun Shun Rikka, or rather the image of Orihime's abilities is the one thing which changed the most without quite clicking together. Initially, the story was that Orihime herself would grow Horns and sprout a tail, becoming sort of like a dragon girl.

Q203.

2021.09.20

Sensei, is there any character that you have drawn who makes you think "this guy is insufferable"? 

A203.

There isn't. I draw while thinking “this is so scummy, that's the best thing about it.”

Q204.

2021.09.20

Does Kubo-sensei have any fetish? When I look at sensei's drawings, I can't help but speculate that you like slender wrists and long fingers, regardless of gender. 

A204.

I don't have any particular fetish. I think it's because I draw illustrations using my own hands as reference.

Q205.

2021.09.20

Regarding Ichimaru Gin's eye color, I believe it was red around the early days of the anime, and then changed to blue in the latter half. What does Kubo-sensei think of his red eyes around this early stage? Also, as far as Kubo-sensei's canon is concerned, is it safe to assume Ichimaru Gin's eye color is blue? 

A205.

In the early days, the checks were not being handed down to me so they ended up being red. For the record, the anime related mistakes were errors made by my editor at the time who didn't bring the checks to me. Because of this, I drew Gin with his eyes open on the cover of volume 20.

Q206.

2021.09.20

Rukia's visuals in the live-action adaptation has become quite a hot topic of conversation, but was the matter reviewed by Kubo-sensei?

A206.

I had made it clear from the beginning that I would not be involved with the live-action project, so basically the whole thing was given the okay. Even regarding Rukia's hair, there was a conversation where they said "we'd like to go ahead with this" so I assumed there was a clear vision but it turns out there wasn't. I don't dislike the movie itself. Renji was extremely good.

Q207.

2021.09.27

Kubo-sensei, to what extent do you supervise merchandise and so on? I'm very happy that a lot of BLEACH merch has been released recently.

A207.

I feel like I'm supervising the things my editor can't make a judgment call on. Speaking of editors, they try their best to avoid handing over supervision duties to authors so that they can allow authors to concentrate on their creations, but after the series had ended, I had some free time so my editor has started bringing me more supervision duties than before.

Q208.

2021.09.27

If it were to come true, would you ever wish for a BLEACH anime adaptation, which faithfully follows the original work, to be broadcast by way of a remake?

A208.

I think I would.

Q209.

2021.09.27

It seems that the 2021 art exhibition will only be held at one location in Tokyo, but would it be possible for you to consider holding it at a variety of other locations? I'm really looking forward to it, but I'm sure there are many people across the country who live a considerable distance away and can't make it. It's a wonderful opportunity, so I think it will be easier to visit if it is hosted in various locations. I think it's a really difficult task, but I would be grateful if you could consider it just once.

A209.

I also want to show the exhibit to my parents, so I hope it will be held in Hiroshima.

Q210.

2021.09.27

Even though Byakuya and Ichika-chan never interact in the original work, I can easily imagine Byakuya being an uncle. I wonder why that is?

A210.

I can imagine it too. Byakuya's face whenever he tells her "kamawanu*"…. (*It's fine/I don't mind)

Q211.

2021.09.27

In volume 58, chapter 518, when Grimmjow was trying to interrupt Urahara and Ichigo's communication, Urahara instructed Orihime and Sado to "use the you-know-what to chase him back outside the tent", but what exactly was the "you-know-what"? What in the world is it, that it can throw Grimmjow off balance to such a degree…? I've been wondering about this for a long time.

A211.

It's a device which emits a sound that Grimmjow dislikes.

Q212.

2021.09.27

Is Ninny-chan easier to draw than Noel-chan?? I was curious because there are more illustrations drawn of Ninny-chan!

A212.

This is because the clothes I want to draw tend to suit Ninny better. If you have big breasts, it's probably difficult to find clothes that suit you.

Q213.

2021.10.04

Ginrei is Byakuya's grandfather, but Kyōraku did not mention his name as a Shinigami who has been Captain for 100 years or more, so perhaps his career as a Captain was rather short?

A213.

I forgot to mention him! Let's just pretend it was Shunsui's blunder.

Q214.

2021.10.04

Do you find that characters of a certain age group are easy to draw, and conversely,  characters of a different age group difficult to draw? 

A214. 

I'm not very good at drawing children or toddlers.

Q215.

2021.10.04

I have been curious about Tsubokura Rin-kun of the Shinigami Research and Development Institute. Rin-kun's hair wasn't filled in when he was in monochrome, I thought for certain he had pale blonde or white hair. However, in the anime his hair was dark brown … so as far as you are concerned sensei, what colors did you imagine when designing him? 

A215.

Was that the color it turned out to be? The image I had in mind is a pale sepia-like color.

Q216.

2021.10.04

Isn't it too bothersome to draw Grimmjow's hairstyle??

A216.

It's too bothersome isn't it? I wonder if you could give him a stiff pompadour instead?

Q217.

2021.10.04

Do you remember the first game you ever played?

A217.

It's "GeGeGe no Kitarō - Yōkai Daimakyō" which was purchased for me together with the Famicom unit itself.

Q218.

2021.10.04

Do you get asked to draw portraits by acquaintances?

A218.

I have always refused all portrait requests from both friends and celebrities.

Q219.

2021.10.11

What is Kensei's specialty dish? 

A219.

It's "Whole Pumpkin Gratin". The highlight for him is the part where he gets to use his bare hands.

Q220.

2021.10.11

When I saw the Playlist on KlubOutside, I was surprised at the wide scope of Sensei's music choices. How do you discover new music?

A220.

SoundHound is my recommendation.

Q221.

2021.10.11

Is the bellyband worn by the Shinigami Men's Association the same as the one worn by Kirinji Tenjirō?

A221.

It's different. The bellyband Tenjirō wears was made by Senjumaru.

Q222.

2021.10.11

Now that I think of it, what does "Whiskrs" mean? I looked into it, and although there are some existing terms, I couldn't find anything in particular with regard to its meaning. I don't know whether sensei came up with the name or not, but perhaps it envelopes some special meaning? 

A222.

It's a modified spelling of the word "whiskers". I came up with the name, or to be more specific, it's originally the name of a store that exists within the BTW universe. Though, this still has yet to make an appearance in the story.

Q223.

2021.10.11

When you go out, have you ever had a fan recognize you as Kubo-sensei and then attempt to speak with you?

A223.

A long time ago, another author wound up uploading a photo of a drinking party I was with to Twitter in the middle of the get-together, the restaurant was identified from the photograph and I was ambushed. It was late at night and I was on my way home alone, so it was really scary. That was probably the one and only time I was approached on the street.

Q224.

2021.10.11

Sensei, have you ever felt negatively about your own work in the past? I am currently creating works with the goal of becoming a designer, but unfortunately I feel embarrassed to display even the things I have created very recently in front of others. How do you overcome this from your perspective, sensei?

A224.

When I first became a manga artist, I felt embarrassed when my editor read my draft right in front of me. If you are creating something that personally satisfies you, you're just not accustomed to showing it to the average person, so you have no choice but to show it to a bunch of people and get used to it. 

Q225.

2021.10.11

Have you ever had a character Awakened in Brave Souls? If so, I would like to know which character it is.

A225.

It's Fierce Battle Aizen. Though, it's more like I just ended up Awakening him when I was targeting others.

Q226.

2021.10.18

In the work, it was never once stated from a  reliable source that Tōshirō's Bankai comes undone once his petals dissipate, but what actually happened when his petals fell away during the period he had an imperfect Bankai? 

A226.

Hitsugaya would injure himself after going through an imperfect growth.

Q227.

2021.10.18

When Rangiku had collapsed, Gin said "the fact that you passed out from hunger, it means that you have it too, right? Spiritual Power." and in Volume 11, there is a description from the exchange between Rukia and Renji that those with Spiritual Power feel hungry. But why didn't Hitsugaya realize he had powers until he dreamed of Hyōrinmaru?

A227.

Because his grandmother taught him that "only children get hungry.”

Q228.

2021.10.18

Why did Orihime's Rikka grow larger when Chad and Orihime returned from training in the final arc? I was curious because no one touched on the matter.

A228.

That's because Kisuke modified it to match her clothes (a cover was installed on the outside of the pins to make them difficult to break), but nobody said anything because they didn't think it was particularly worth mentioning.

Q229.

2021.10.18

When I was looking at "Hirako glasses" which was updated on the Gallery's Graffiti section, I became curious, what is that thing Hirako Shinji is holding in his mouth? Considering the hot drink in his left hand, maybe it's a cinnamon stick or something?

A229.

It's a cigarillo that he's holding in his mouth purely for fashion. I looked into it when I drew it but I couldn't find anything that matched the size I imagined.

Q230.

2021.10.25

Good evening! The work titled "maturity" in the gallery that was released on April 3, 2021, could that be Mayuri-sama?

A230.

It's Mayuri. When I tried to type the title "mayuri", I accidentally tapped on the wrong suggestion and entered that instead, I left it as it is because it's a pain to change it.

Q231.

2021.10.25

Did Ikkaku make the strap that Ichika has attached to her bag in JET?

A231.

That's right.

Q232.

2021.10.25

In BLEACH, how much influence did the ranking results of popularity polls have on a character's level of activity?

A232.

It's irrelevant. I'm the type who thinks "isn't that kind of thing discourteous to characters with few votes?"

Q233.

2021.10.25

Regarding the art exhibition, is it possible to increase the number of venues? I would absolutely love to participate, but due to the current situation, it is quite difficult to travel to Tokyo. Nevertheless, there are many fans of sensei and his work around the world. Although this is a very presumptuous request, I would be extremely grateful if you could consider it. Best regards.

A233.

I'll let my editor know! Murakoshi-saaan!!

Q234.

2021.10.25

Sensei, given that you play a lot of Dragon Quest, I was curious, is "Zaraki" - the district of Rukongai which Zaraki Kenpachi took as his name - based on the spell "Thwack" (*Zaraki in Japanese).

A234.

That's correct. Hold on, have I never mentioned this before?

Q235.

2021.11.01

Is there any reason why Kyōraku-san couldn't grace the cover of a tankōbon? I wanted him to have a cover.

A235.

It's just a coincidence. I wanted to draw it too.

Q236.

2021.11.01

Are Renji's tattoos only on the upper half of his body? Do they not continue down to his thighs?

A236.

They don't continue down. Wait? Have I never drawn his thighs before?

Q237.

2021.11.01

Is the double chant that Rukia recited during the fight against Aaroniero, simply the Sōren Sōkatsui chant split in two, with the Rikujōkōrō chant sandwiched in-between? Or does the substance of the chant change slightly depending on whether each is invoked independently or as a double chant?

A237.

It's a shortened version of Rikujōkōrō inserted between the full version of Sōren Sōkatsui. The effectiveness of the spells will increase if you perform both chants in full, but the time efficiency will decrease, so that would diminish the purpose of a two layered chant.

Q238.

2021.11.01

When a Zanpakutō is inherited from another person like in the case of Tōsen and Kenpachi, will the essence of its soul be overwritten? Or will it be made to mix with the essence of the previous owner?

A238.

Generally it is overwritten, but in some cases it may mix.

Q239.

2021.11.08

Were there any foreshadowing elements that made you go "ultimately, nobody noticed, huh?" up to the end of the BLEACH serialization? If so, is it likely there will be an opportunity to present it somewhere?

A239.

After I've finished playing a game or watching a movie, I like spending time alone thinking about what happened here and there or discussing with others about this and that. I want to create moments like that, so there are some parts where I try to depict things in a way that is not easily noticed, that's why unless someone correctly points it out, I try not to say much. 

Q240.

2021.11.08

Why didn't Ryūken give Uryū the "ken" (弦) character in his name? ×[1]

A240.

Because he was thinking that he didn't want to let Uryū become Quincy.

Q241.

2021.11.08

How far have you progressed in Monster Hunter? If there is a monster that you like among the monsters that appear in this title, please tell me about it!

A241.

I haven't played in a while. In this title I like Goss Harag.

Q242.

2021.11.08

Can I post the photos from the gallery on social media??!?!?

A242.

I guess it's not allowed, going by the FC rules. You can post my dog from Deskside at least.

Q243.

2021.11.15

Have you ever had to change a scene you originally wanted in order to make the depiction more in line with Jump guidelines? If so, which scene is it and how did you truly want to draw it? 

A243.

During the time Jump had a large circulation, extremely graphic depictions were not allowed, so I had to redraw some of the places where Mayuri appears. The first thing I fixed was the scene where his squad members die in an explosion.

Q244.

2021.11.15

There are characters for whom the theme music feels perfect, and on the other hand, others for whom the theme music is unexpected. By listening to each character's song, I feel like I am able to learn more about a character's inner being, it's so much fun! When deciding on a song, which does sensei place more importance on: the lyrics, or the melody?

A244.

It's only about the melody, sound and vocal quality. If it's the case that the lyrics also match, it's just a coincidence.

Q245.

2021.11.15

The market for e-books has grown larger, but when it comes to electronic and physical copy, people often say things like "you should buy the physical book!" What do you think? 

A245.

Either one is fine. Even I read most of my manga electronically now. I like making paper books but I think physical paper copies will become more of a collector's item in the near future.

Q246.

2021.11.15

Kubo-sensei draws many animals, but are there any that you particularly enjoy drawing?

A246.

Right now it's dogs. Since owning a dog, I've started to grow fond of animals, so I feel like I may reach a point where I'm able to draw animals a little better now. 

Q247.

2021.11.15

If there was an entrance song for Chad's boxing match, I wonder what kind of music it would be? If you have a song in mind that you can imagine for this scenario, please share the artist's name and song title with us.

A247.

It would be "Apache" by Michael Viner's Incredible Bongo Band.

Q248.

2021.11.22

An illustration of Tatsuki wearing a Shihakushō exists, did you originally plan to have her transform into a Shinigami? 

A248.

The one I drew for Jump Festa a long time ago, right? That's just an illustration I drew for Jump Festa that one time.

Q249.

2021.11.22

It seems like Rukia often wears dresses in the Human World, is there some reason why? If you have any particular preferences regarding the clothing choices of the BLEACH cast, please by all means, tell us about it!

A249.

I'll give you three example reasons for why they wear what they wear:

Orihime's body type makes it difficult for her to wear a dress.

I wanted to make a physically active Rukia stand out by making her wear clothes that are ill suited for physical activity.

Rukia was wearing hakama in Soul Society, so she's not familiar with fitted clothes.

Q250.

2021.11.22

You may not remember this … but during an autograph signing session, I was the one who announced "I'm getting married to my boyfriend who I initially became friends with through BLEACH!" We broke up at lightning speed after that! (Peace sign.) But sometimes we hang out and are on good terms as friends. Now my question is, what is sensei's favorite color?

A250.

My condolences. It's orange.

Q251.

2021.11.22

In the JET Q&A segment, you replied that the Vice-Captains of the 13th Division ten years later would be Sentarō and Kiyone, but I believe Kiyone was also the Vice-Captain of the 4th Division, so does that mean that they are concurrently serving as Vice-Captains?

A251.

That would be a mistake. Sentarō is the only Vice-Captain of the 13th.

Q252.

2021.11.29

Please tell us how Unagiya Ikumi-san and Ichigo met in the first place.

A252.

Their meeting came about when Ichigo delivered Kaoru, a lost child (and Ikumi's son) back to his mother. (Ikumi encountered them en route.)  

Q253.

2021.11.29

Ichigo remembers the time Orihime carried her older brother Sora to the Kurosaki Clinic, but does Orihime remember meeting Ichigo at this time? When Ichigo entered high school, he noticed that Orihime was the girl from back then, does Orihime realize that it was Ichigo who greeted her at that moment?

A253.

Ichigo is the only one who remembers. Ichigo remembers that scene clearly because he felt a strong sense of one-way sympathy for Orihime, who was on the verge of losing her family.

Q254.

2021.11.29

Sensei, what's the one thing that makes you think "I'm second to none when it comes to this!"?

A254.

My Mickey Mouse impression.

Q255.

2021.11.29

I got the impression that Aizen-sama was often drinking black tea at Las Noches, but I wonder if likewise he drank Japanese tea during the time he was in Soul Society in the role of a Shinigami? Or is it that Western style food and drink like black tea also exist in Soul Society, and he has been a black tea enthusiast since long ago?

A255.

I drew that because I wanted a scene where Aizen eats the same thing as the Espada, but when it came to eating, there were some characters (like Ulquiorra) who I didn't want to depict in a dining scene (at that point), so I merely chose black tea as a compromise, therefore it's not that I was paying any particular attention to tea itself. 

Q256.

2021.12.06

Is it possible for a member of the Gotei 13 to transfer to another Squad at their own behest? Recruitment of Captains or Vice-Captains from other Squads has been portrayed, but what is the situation like for ordinary soldiers?

A256.

It is possible if they make an application and obtain permission through their superior officer all the way up to the Captain. However, If they don't have any accomplishments their superior will reject it so it's difficult for an ordinary soldier.

Q257.

2021.12.06

Do you have a favorite coffee shop?

A257.

The place I frequent the most is Hoshino Coffee. I want to go to Komeda but I haven't had the chance to go yet.

Q258.

2021.12.06

What kind of life did Ikkaku-san and Shino-chan lead in Rukongai? I'm not sure if they're related by blood or not, but are they still family?

A258.

They're ordinary relatives. The Madarame family are a distinguished family and Ikkaku is treated like an oddball.

Q259.

2021.12.06

What do you order when you use services like Uber Eats for delivery?

A259.

The thing I order the most is Starbucks' White Mocha. By the way, I don't use Uber because I had a scary experience in the past.

Q260.

2021.12.06

I would like a YouTube channel or something to be created for Uni-chan. 

A260.

If I could get someone to do the editing for me, then I would like to make one to document my dog's growth, but I don't think I would update it often….

Q261.

2021.12.13

If you were to spend a day with any character from "BLEACH" or "BURN THE WITCH", who would you like to be with?

A261.

I seriously thought about it, but maybe being with Balgo would be the easiest….

Q262.

2021.12.13

Speaking in terms of BLEACH characters, who would you compare the breast sizes of Noel-chan and Cquntnire-san to? 

A262.

It's more or less that I'm drawing Noel like Orihime and Cquntnire like Nel.

Q263.

2021.12.13

What is Kubo-sensei's favorite rock or metal band?

A263.

I haven't been listening to much metal lately…during my high school days, I liked ROYAL HUNT and IN FLAMES.

Q264.

2021.12.13

This is closer to a request than a question, but I would like for you to issue and sell, the currently trending, NFTs with BLEACH illustrations! If that were to happen, I would definitely buy them!

A264.

I'll let my editor know about this also. Murakoshi-saaan!

Q265.

2021.12.13

What is your favorite ice cream?

A265.

Lately, I've been liking HERSHEY'S Chocolate Ice Bars. It's also nice that each bar is small and just the right size.

Q266.

2021.12.20

I have a question regarding BTW Magic. In chapter 0.8 which is a one-shot, Noel-chan uses Absolute Dragon Shatter in Front London, but in chapter 1, numbered Pipers spells known as "Magic" made an appearance. As a premise, I believe that Magic and Absolute Dragon Shatter are alike (as they both use Witch Kits), I suspect that the reason why Noel-chan adopted this unnumbered attack method in Front London may be due to one of the following two points:

1. Magic is an attack method that utilizes the medium of Witch Kits to feed on a special energy similar to Reishi which exists only in Reverse London, on the other hand, Absolute Dragon Shatter is an attack method made for Front London, which does not require this special Reishi. 

2. Given that it was an attack against a Disguiser Dragon who had remained hidden for ten odd years, Absolute Dragon Shatter was used as an arcane means and is considered the highest order of Magic or even a method surpassing Magic itself.

I'm really interested about the relationship between Magic and Absolute Dragon Shatter, will it be revealed within the story in the future!?

A266.

How insightful, I'm not sure whether or not I'll get to write about it in the future so I'll explain. In Front London, you can basically only use spells through items that are "charged" with magical power. The gun-pipe is not a rechargeable item, but Noel habitually fills it with magical power of her own accord, the release of that power is Absolute Dragon Shatter. Only Noel is able to use it. 

Q267.

2021.12.20

The person Ichigo respects is Shakespeare. Given this fact, does it follow that this is a universe where eminent figures like Mozart and Napoleon existed?

A267.

Eminent figures certainly exist within the Soul Society too, but if I were to touch upon that, the manga would end up in a completely different place, so I didn't bring it up.

Q268.

2021.12.20

Do Szayelaporro's glasses have lenses? Since it's a mask, there should be no lenses so I assumed it was the frame alone. However in the anime, there were depictions of lenses reflecting the light and gleaming so I was confused! 

A268.

There is no lens.

Q269.

2021.12.20

Were all the designs of the Zanpakutō which materialized in the Zanpakutō: The Alternate Tale arc, created by you, sensei?

A269.

I came up with some ideas and had an image in mind, Kudō-san designed them, I checked them. They pass for various reasons like being "just as I imagined!" or being "interesting because I wouldn't have come up with this design myself!"

Q270.

2021.12.27

Do you have a favorite character from Dragon Quest numbered titles or spin-off works?

A270.

It's King Grossner (Dragon Quest 10).

Q271.

2021.12.27

I heard that you like figure skating, Kubo-sensei, but do you have a favorite athlete?

A271.

It's Candeloro.

Q272.

2021.12.27

It is mentioned in the novel "WE DO knot ALWAYS LOVE YOU", that when Shiba Kaien died in battle, Isshin was the Captain of Squad 10. Why didn't Rukia, who was already serving as a member of the Gotei 13 at the time, realize that Ichigo's father was Shiba Isshin when she was freeloading off of the Kurosaki family? 

A272.

There are two reasons for this: for one, his outward appearance was completely different. Secondly, he was a Captain from another Squad and she was a regular soldier, so they didn't have much point of contact in the first place. To go further, given that there is no way for a Shinigami to have children with a human (only Kisuke knows how), the idea that a "Shinigami may become human and produce children in the Human World" did not occur to Rukia.

Q273.

2022.01.03

I like the accessories (hats, sunglasses, etc.) and clothes that the characters are wearing in KlubOutside's Graffiti, they are exceedingly stylish. Is it possible to put them up for sale? 

A273.

I will let the FC manager know about this. Totani-saaan!

Q274.

2022.01.03

Sensei, do you have any plans to publish, for instance, the yonkoma you drew for the magazine into a single book someday?

A274. 

It might have been published in JET.

Q275.

2022.01.03

When you were writing BTW, who came to your mind first between Ninny and Noel?

A275.

Out of all the characters in BTW, Noel was the first.

Q276.

2022.01.03

When Rukia entered her name into the family register, it's assumed that she did not change her last name, but now that she has become a Captain, it means there will be two Captain Kuchiki, so how do the other troops distinguish between the two when addressing them? Is it possible that she will revert to the Abarai surname?

A276.

Many of the troops differentiate between them by calling them Captain Kuchiki and 13th Captain Kuchiki. 

Q277.

2022.01.10

Did Zangetsu eventually return to being a single blade? The "Ten Years Later" version of Ichigo was implemented in the social game - Brave Souls, and he wielded the "Zangetsu which emerged from a broken Tensa Zangetsu" as seen in the final stages of the Thousand-Year Blood War arc. Zangetsu which was reforged into two swords for Hollow and Quincy, became one as Tensa Zangetsu in Bankai, so I thought for sure it would return to two swords once the Bankai is disengaged.

However, does this mean that Zangetsu did not return to two swords due to the fact that after activating Bankai, Ichigo's Hollow and Quincy powers were absorbed by Yhwach, and that his Bankai was damaged among other factors? Or is it that it's possible for Ichigo to wield both the dual swords and the single sword if he so desires?

It may just be game original staging to begin with, but I was intrigued.

A277. 

Since I haven't described this in detail nor do I plan to portray the matter any further, I'll give you an answer. The two blades of Zangetsu are the "sword" and the "sheath". The correct form of a Zanpakutō is one that has a sheath, and there are only two swords without one: Sayafushi and Zangetsu. What fixed Zangetsu into its "correct form" is the dual swords state, and in Bankai Zangetsu is placed back in its sheath, what emerged after that sheath was shattered is the "True Zangetsu". The shattered sheath was absorbed by Ichigo, so I think he is also able to return to dual blades if he wants to, but I suppose that depends on Ichigo himself.

Q278.

2022.01.17

I've always wondered about this since reading volume 12, but was there a physical relationship between Aizen and Hinamori? I think it's more fitting for Aizen to not engage in this sort of thing, so I'm on the side that says it didn't happen.

A278.

I won't answer this because I think it'll be more fun to leave it unanswered.

Q279.

2022.01.17

Is Hōzukimaru a rare type of Zanpakutō which always requires the sheath for its Shikai.

A279.

That's right.

Q280.

2022.01.17

Kubo-sensei, when it comes to TVs, are you in favor of wall-mounted? Or do you prefer freestanding?

A280.

Mine is attached to a wall storage unit with an extendable arm.

Q281.

2022.01.24

Upon being granted a letter, does the Schrift allow abilities to manifest based on the nature of an individual? Or does His Majesty already know what they are before granting it at the epithet stage. 

A281.

Yhwach can see words almost as if they were engraved on the individual's body. Those who are bestowed Schrifts, which were previously lost through death in battle and so on, are discovered from the words engraved on them and then given power.

Q282.

2022.01.24

Do Yōkai and Yōsei exist in the world of BLEACH?

A282.

It would be more fun if they did.

Q283.

2022.01.24

A color version of the BLEACH e-books exist, but does Kubo-sensei decide on the color scheme and such?

A283.

There are parts that I check and parts that I don't (I only check what my editor asks me to check), but even the parts that I do were decided upon rapidly in the intervals between my work schedule during serialization, so when I look at them afterwards, I often come to think "was this the kind of color I chose??”

Q284.

2022.01.31

Sensei, if you had the opportunity to be involved in a project in the future, what sort of creative work would you like to be involved in? (Live-action film, animated movies, manga, dramas, YouTube, etc.)

A284.

If I could get involved with the story aspect, then it would probably be a game.

Q285.

2022.01.31

If you could actually sell any kind of merchandise at the fan club shop, what kind of items would you want to sell?

A285.

Bracelets with the text from the opening poems.

Q286.

2022.01.31

Is the reason why Uryū was not affected by Auswählen connected to Uryū's grandfather?

A286.

There's a bit of a complicated setup regarding this, but it might appear in the anime adaptation of the Thousand-Year Blood War arc. (Depending on the composition.)

Q287.

2022.02.07

It has already been decided that the Thousand-Year Blood War arc is getting an anime adaptation, but will there also be an anime adaptation of the side story novels? I'd especially like to see "WE DO knot ALWAYS LOVE YOU" in the anime which depicts Rukia and Renji's marriage and the progress of Ichigo and Orihime's relationship.

A287.

Ah, I see. If there is enough room, then it may be possible.

Q288.

2022.02.07

Is it not true that Gigi is a girl? It kind of seems like Yumichika only said otherwise to provoke her.

A288.

Giselle is a man.

Q289.

2022.02.07

Who was the one to slash Rukia from behind during the first invasion by the Sternritter?

A289.

The plan is to depict this in the anime version.

Q290.

2022.02.14

Is the giant spoon used by Hikifune Kirio of Squad Zero actually her Zanpakutō?

A290.

That's correct.

Q291.

2022.02.14

During the performance of the ROCK MUSICAL BLEACH, Kubo-sensei personally talked to Tsuchiya-san, who played the role of Gin, about Gin's true intentions and purpose, as he was having a difficult time interpreting the character, and Gin's true intentions had not yet been revealed within the story at the time. I remember there was an episode which went something like that, but in so doing, did you also discuss everything which occurred with regard to Rangiku and Aizen? Also, did you not have any reluctance to divulge information which has not yet been revealed in the story?

A291.

I feel that we talked about things like how Gin viewed each character rather than the story itself. If it is necessary for the performance, then there is a possibility that I may also convey undisclosed information to the voice actors so it's not limited to this particular occasion.

Q292.

2022.02.14

Is the "table with English language BLEACH quotes suspended inside its transparent legs" which you wrote about in the cover flap comment of Volume 44, still being used? I would love to see photos of sensei's favorite furniture and more!

A292.

I use it when I'm composing my drafts at home. The tabletop is in disarray, so I hope a photo of the legs will do.

Q293.

2022.02.21

With regard to the role of a Shinigami, it involves cleansing Hollows of their sins by way of a Zanpakutō and sending them to Soul Society in peace, but was this role simply to extinguish Hollows until Nimaiya Ōetsu showed up?

A293.

It was only after the creation of the Gotei 13 that the role of a Shinigami was properly defined.

Q294.

2022.02.21

At what age did Chad get his tattoo? Was it when he moved to Mexico? Or did he get it inked in his own hometown in Okinawa? I would be grateful if you could tell us.

A294.

He got his tattoo in Mexico when he was 9 years old.

Q295.

2022.02.21

I heard that the Lost Agent of the Shinigami arc concluded earlier than planned, is that true? If so, I'd like you to tell us about the story you were actually planning to write.

A295.

You mean the rumor that I was planning to compose an episode for all the classmates but I got bored and decided against it? If so, then it's true. I feel like I mentioned that in a character book or something.

Q296.

2022.02.21

Have you ever wanted to draw Oiroke manga? (*Manga with light erotic content.)

A296.

I'm not confident that I'd be able to draw it well.

Q297.

2022.02.28

In the BLEACH PS2 game "Bleach: Erabareshi Tamashii", techniques such as "Hadō #20: Shōtenkyū" and "Hadō #26: Gōensai" made an appearance, but were these Kidō Kubo-sensei's ideas or the creations of the game staff? If it's the former, I'd also like to know how to write it in kanji!

A297.

I had no involvement with that so they're the creations of the game staff.

Q298.

2022.02.28

I really love the relationship between Ichigo and the store manager, Unagiya Ikumi, and you can sense in the air how Ichigo suddenly turns back into a child. Please tell us if there was anything you paid extra attention to when creating Ikumi-san.

A298.

Ikumi is a character that was born because I wanted to create a place for Ichigo where he could be himself outside the Kurosaki home due to a plot development, that is, the sudden loss of a place where he belongs in the Lost Agent arc.

Q299.

2022.02.28

In "BURN THE WITCH", it seems that each division is armed with a different type of weapon, but in the event that they change affiliations, like how Bruno encouraged the witches to do in the story, do they undergo training with new weapons?

A299.

They train with new weapons. It is also among the Director's faculties to ascertain an individual's suitability for a weapon and then offer an invitation to them.

Q300.

2022.03.07

Is the thing under Hisagi's left eye, tape? A tattoo perhaps?

A300.

It's a tattoo.

Translation Footnotes:

×1. 弦 means bowstring and is in both the names of Sōken (宗弦) and Ryūken (竜弦).

[findroleplay]

Looking for Discord RP partner!!

Discord base, but i am okay with tumblr! If you want to do multiple I can make a server

DNI if youre a minor please!!! I will ask and double check!

I like either multi para, semi para (its only okay if you make sure to still have details and feelings!!) I can try novella but I mainly do a most 3 paragraph!

3rd person only please! a lot easier for me

nsfw is okay and i'm down but i don't want it to be the main plot point

I like angst, action, au's, comedy, romance, smut, i'm okay with crossovers!

I also would love to be able to chit chat with you! sending memes and what not!

Fandoms

characters i’m looking to write with || who i’m looking to write as

listed in order of preference.

canon, canon divergent, AU friendly

OCS Welcome as well! some pairings I'll be using my OC

One of my OCs I use for more than one verse

Bleach

Renji, Ichigo || Rukia

Avatar / Avatar: The Way of Water

Jake || Neytiri

Lo'ak || Tsireya

Rotxo, Ao'nung || Kiri

Neteyam, Rotxo, Ao'nung || my oc ( Ma'via)

How to Train Your Dragon

Hiccup || Astrid

Marvel

Spider-man, Peter Parker || Flora (my oc) MJ

Avatar the Last Airbender

Zuko, Sokka || Toph, Mei

Code Lyoko

Ulrich || Yumi

Odd || Flora (oc)

Teen Titans

Robin || Starfire, Raven, Flora (oc)

Beast Boy || Terra, Raven, Flora

Legend of Korra

Bolin, Mako || Flora (oc)

Asami || Korra

Naruto

Naruto || Hinata

Shikamaru, Kiba || Flora

Disney

Shang || Mulan

These are all off the top of head right now, if there something that isn't on here or a pairing, we can discuss, dm me or interact with this post and I will hit you up so we can discuss // note: I'm looking to be the female role! I'm not great at playing male roles

-

[recurring-polynya]

Request Time!

I am sure this is a categorically terrible idea, but I am too squirrel-brained to pick a writing project to work on, but also I'm tired of not writing and additionally, I am puffed up on my own hubris from hitting 1M words on AO3, so let's gooooooooo!

I am taking requests from now until I get tired of this! I promise I will write at least one thing! I do not promise when that will be!!

This is a fanfic event

I will do the ones that speak to me the most. It’s not first-come, first-served! If you have a good idea, send it in! It's fine to send in more than one!

I delete the requests that I don’t accept.

No theme this time! Anything goes!

Here are some tips:

I do have anon asks on, but if you log in, it means I can ask questions if I need to, plus it makes me feel like we’re friends when I get a name with the request.

Ideally my short fiction comes out between 1k and 2k, so we’re usually talking just a scene or two. I am notoriously bad at sticking to this.

You can see all my previous short fiction here. (Each yearly volume has a table of contents in the first chapter). Try not to request things that I’ve done before, unless it’s explicitly a continuation. Alternatively, you can check out some of my previous request tags like 500 Follower Drabble Weekend or What If Requests

You can request extra scenes from my existing fanfics.

The best requests are specific enough to be inspirational, but not so overconstrained that you’ve basically written the whole thing yourself. Specifying a set of characters is okay, but it’s better if you add a setting or a scenario or a mood. Think about what the description would be if you had to post it to ao3 yourself.

If you read my blog and/or my fanfic, you will probably get a good idea of which characters I love and the kinds of things that delight me and the things that do not. I primarily do these requests for the benefit of my regular readers, so if this process is biased towards them, that is by design.

Here's a list of stuff I am probably going to say no to. If you feel like you know me really well and have a killer idea that you think I'll love, go ahead and hit me with it, but otherwise, please don't.

Reader/x (this is a hard no, don't even ask)

Kidfic

Any ships that are captains/their lieutenants or Karakura Kids/shinigami. No Aizen ships period.

The only endgame romantic ship I will write for Renji or Rukia is Renruki. I might be open to some explorations during their separation years or like some weird AU thing that's Wrong on Purpose, but in both these cases, you're getting undercurrents of Renruki for free, whether you want them or not. The only Byakuya ship I will write is Byahisa. Friendships and other kinds of non-romantic relationships are always welcome!

Anything featuring Sternritter, aside from as villains. Actually, same goes for Nnoitra and Szayelaporro. Mayuri also on extremely thin ice, but I have a lot of Mayuri-loving pals on this site, so I might be convincible with the right prompt.

I am not explicitly ruling out NSFW, but you gotta give me a good hook, I’m only good at writing smut if it’s weird. The only smut I will write is Renruki. Also, my smut is always super consensual, no exceptions.

Send your requests to my Askbox!

Aug 24: Requests are now closed! Thanks everyone!

[animeloverskylarmoon]

Ichigo Kurosaki (Bleach) - Oneshot

It was a bit crazy how it all got started. 

There was a part of you that thought you were going crazy. Those masked monsters, well it was terrifying, but like a guardian angel he was just there. 

That sword, those robes, that striking orange hair that looked so bright it was almost impossible for it to be natural. 

There was part of you that thought you imagined it all. But when the monster disappeared right before your eyes and he moved to check on you, well, maybe it was then you decided that he was a friend you didn’t want to lose. 

“Ichigo.” 

He turned at the call, bag over his shoulder casually. 

“Hey, you got out early.” 

You nodded. 

Activities tended to take long, that’s why it was just the two of you. You were sort of looking forward to walking home with the rest of your friends, but you understood. It was nice that he’d been able to stick around. There was also a slight appreciation for the one on one, because there’s something you needed to talk to him about. 

“I found a sword.” 

He turned at you words, confusion on his face. 

“A sword?” 

You nod. 

“I think it might be mine, but I’m not sure where it came from. Maybe..maybe it’s the same as Orihime-chan or Sado-kun.” 

Your eyes were trained ahead and Ichigo just observed. He’d heard Kisuke explain that each of their abilities manifested differently, so it’s possible this was another expression of that. After all, you could see hollows. It wasn’t so hard to believe that you might have been sporting the same kind of spiritual pressure as the rest of them. 

“I’ll take you to Kisuke.” 

Your head lifted. 

“Kisuke?” 

“Yeah, he might be able to help you figure it out. He’s a creepy bastard, but he’s good at that stuff. He’ll show you how to use it, how to control it.” 

Ichigo trusted this guy, so you saw no reason not to. At the moment you were grateful for any assistance. 

“Arigatou, Ichigo.” 

You were smiling at him and his face flamed up as he placed his hand on top of your head. 

“Don’t go getting smug.” 

You were flapping your hands around wildly, because his hand was blocking your vision. 

Life was somewhat simple then. 

There were hollows, and you needed to protect people. You never really saw yourself as much of a fighter, but you’d seen Ichigo and Renji train one time and you were amazed. They were extraordinary. Fearless almost. 

Every battle that came seemed scary enough, but Ichigo had faced it without fail and still managed somehow to support and protect his friends in the process. He was there for you when you were still figuring it all out. Your abilities, that power. He stood by you even when he was battling his own demons. Literally and figuratively.

“Oii!” 

You stumbled and Ichigo flash stepped, pressing a hand to your shoulder to keep you upright. With the battle between the Soul Society and Aizen quickly approaching, you needed to be stronger. Although, you might have been pushing a little too hard. 

You sent Ichigo a bashful smile. 

“Gomen, I overdid it.” 

He was frowning as you finally regained your footing, sword at your side. 

“Quit being an idiot.” 

He whacked you on top of the head and you glared. 

“That hurt!!” 

“Good, maybe next time you’ll be more careful!!” 

You wanted to argue further but he was right, you were being reckless. You deflated, eyes moving to your sword and Ichigo’s hand lowered from its raised position. You knew he’d intended to give you another thump for good measure, but his gaze softened when he saw that look on your face. 

You were scared. 

It was impossible to hide. This time when his hand came down, it dropped on the top of your head softly, ruffling your locks. 

“Don’t worry, I’ll protect you.” 

Your eyes locked with his and you saw it, the determination that followed every time you’d all run into an obstacle that felt impossible. When Rukia was taken he’d said the same thing. That he would protect her, he would save everyone, and he’d done it. The reapers that were once enemies were now comrades, fighting on the same side. It was incredible and something you felt like only Ichigo could accomplish. 

Now you’re once again facing a big bad and instead of worrying, or showing fear, he was giving you another guarantee that it would all be okay. That he would be there. 

There was nothing that could describe how amazing he was, because his words were never empty.  

So you fought. It was terrifying, but you won. 

Just as he promised, he’d protected you, he protected everyone. 

The Vizards had stepped in and Aizen was sealed away.

He did it, it should have been a joyous occasion, but when the realization of what tapping into that power meant, it was heartbreaking. 

“My abilities are disappearing.” 

It was like a gut punch. You were seated on a swing set when he broke the news and your eyes grew wide. Despite what he just told you, he was smiling, staring at the sun that was hanging low in the sky. The red and orange hues gave off a glow that even now made him seem like some angelic figure. 

“I can’t stop it, and I can’t say that I regret anything that has happened until this point.” 

Your grip tightened on the metal as your body slowly stopped rocking. It’s not like he was giving up. He was graciously accepting the situation. Another show of his strength. You should have been supporting him, but you just started crying. Ichigo turned, startled. 

“W-What the hell!”

“Y-You’re so cool Ichigo!!” 

You just continued to wail. 

“I-I get it so quit crying!!!” 

Even then he’d managed to keep it all together. When Rukia left you knew it was tough, that’s when you decided that it was your turn to protect him. To be his guardian, the way he’d done for you and so many others. 

“From here on out I’ll protect you!” 

Ichigo just sweatdropped. 

“What are you going on about?” 

He looked generally confused and you just huffed. You worked up all that courage to look cool and unaffected and with one look you felt silly. 

“Never mind, fend for yourself jerk!!” 

“Oii!! Why are you getting angry!” 

He was clueless, but to be honest, so were you. You never really thought about why it was so easy to be at his side. You were friends, it was natural. He was there, he’d always been there. You just assumed you admired him. After all, he was the one who helped you find your strength. 

That’s why when the fullbrings showed up and he was able to regain just a fraction of what he lost, you were ecstatic. You could tell he was too. Ginjo was an ally, a friend. 

At least that’s what you thought. 

The enemy was supposed to be Tsukishima. When your friends started talking about the guy like he was a buddy, you were convinced you were going mad. But you weren’t the only one. Ichigo had encountered the same. So the only option was to ask Ginjo for help. Except when you both got there, the truth became clear and it was painful. 

You hadn’t even been able to move when he stuck his sword into Ichigo's chest and stole his powers. The rain beating against your clothes should have been at least sobering, but all you could do was stare from your spot on the ground after he’d knocked you down. 

Ichigo was on his knees and at that moment you knew you’d failed the very promise you made him. You were supposed to look out for him, protect him, but you’d so easily been taken down. 

Even without power, Ichigo had still faced off against Ginjo.

Then when you saw that dark hair and those eyes, in some crazy way you just felt like it would be alright. Rukia had stuck her sword into Ichigo’s back and in a blink, everything changed. He was stronger, much stronger than before and you felt like there was nothing else to worry about. 

A few years later, another war was overcome. 

Old enemies had come back to join the fight. 

It was strange, getting help from some like Aizen, Grimmjow, Harribel, Tsukishima…Ginjo. 

You realized that now that Yhwach was defeated, everyone could relax. Standing in the Soul Society conversing with Ginjo, it was still hard to grasp. Rukia and Renji were discussing it with Kisuke. Ichigo at the side. Ginjo and Tsukishima were standing right in front of you and the entire time you just kept your glare in their direction. Ginjo looked over with a smirk. 

“Ichigo, I see you still have your guard dog.” 

An irk mark popped up on your head. 

“I’m stronger than the last time we met Ginjo!!” You were furious, and you intended to attack but Ichigo grabbed you by the collar. 

“Calm down, he’s on our side.” 

With an agitated scoff, you finally stopped, sheathing your blade. Tsukishima stood at the side with a smile of his own. 

“So you haven’t realized yet.” 

Your brows were furrowed.

“Why are you speaking in riddles, realized what?” 

“The reason why my fullbring didn’t work on you.” Tsukishima’s words weren’t making sense and now everyone is invested. 

“What are you talking about?” Rukia asked. 

“I was able to manipulate all of Ichigo’s friends, even his family. At the time it was simple. Yet (Y/N) was unaffected.” 

Now that you thought about it, he was right. You were strong, there’s no doubt about that, but even Sado had been tricked, Uryuu too. Now that you weren’t trying to rip Ginjo’s head off, you really wanted to know. 

“Why didn’t it work?” 

He was looking at you as if it were obvious, but the curious tilt of your head must have spoken for itself. He chuckled. 

“It’s because you’re in love with Ichigo.” 

The statement caught everyone by surprise. For a moment you could just stare, as if still trying to process his words. When you finally got yourself to look at Ichigo, it finally set in. 

“I’m..in love with Ichigo..” 

You repeated as if doing so would make it somehow make sense. You expected him to look just as startled as you by the revelation, but his expression showed neither. There was understanding, longing..hope..

“(Y/N)..” 

He took a step forward and you flinched, flash stepping. They all blinked, because you were in a building quite a distance away. 

“I-I have to go!” 

That’s all you said, just like that, you were gone, no doubt running back to Karakura. 

Ichigo sighed in defeat. 

“Looks like she’s just as dense as Ichigo.” Ginjo commented. 

“SHUT UP!!” 

Certain things would never truly change. 

[bendingwind]

Writing Update 1/10/24

I really enjoy writing these so I'm gonna start again even if not very many people in the fandoms I'm actively writing for follow me here!

I'm still editing & posting the stories from The Art of Life's Distractions series, though I've slowed down to about one per week now that I met the last-minute goals I set for 2023. At this rate I imagine I'll finish posting sometime in April, since I still have to write parts 23 and 25 (I posted part 18 today). I might try and pick those up next week so they're done in advance.

Meanwhile I have largely kept to my goal of writing 500 words a day, with the exception of days when I had wedding stuff for my friends happening! I've made up for those days on other days though, especially since I'm in the last three days at Current Job before I start New Job and I have just, fully checked out. None of this is my problem any more! Why should I work when I could be writing for fun and no profit!

I wrote a little on Ten Billion Words About Kel, but mostly I've been focusing on a Secret Love Child fic for Dragon Age I started in 2022 (y'all don't even know, I've been looking for an excuse to write this trope since I was a BABY TWEEN). So far I have a) trashed the entire second part, about 6k words, after realizing that the reason I got stuck on it in the first place was that the characterization driving the plot was all wrong and b) almost made that wordcount back up with much better story content. I stand by part 1 of the story, which is 🔥

I think I'll take a break next week to wrap up The Art of Life's Distractions and then hunker down and finish the Secret Love Child story. After that I kind of want to go back to the Bleach pre-academy Renji/Rukia smut because I maintain the first part is one of the funniest things I've ever written and the world deserves to have it, but we'll see! That one's going to be hard to write if I'm not on an ✨inspiration✨ streak.