#Senkaimon

[recurring-polynya]

rip twitter, if it weren't for you i would never have known about the only good moment from the bleach dub

[the-narwhals-awaken]

Bloody Hearts Bingo Day 17

Prompt: Hug Me, General | Holding onto someone and not wanting to let go

Ichigo scowled, even though nobody could see his face. He shifted position slightly, burying his face better in Inoue's hair- eyes just clear enough to see the doorway and keep an eye on things, even if the combination of Chad across his legs and Ishida tucked against his side meant that he wasn't moving even if something happened. Inoue was the one best positioned to defend them- she'd curled up first, back to the door but fairies glinting in the evening light, and it hadn't taken any words to settle in order.

They needed this. The Shouten was warded well- he could feel it in his teeth, every time he crossed the property line or pressed his hand to an external wall. The world had been remarkably awful recently, and it seemed that only the Shouten was entirely safe- home had the twins, but they'd made friends with Ururu (and Jinta, a little bit) and started coming over to do homework or run around for a bit.

Chad was the most irritated at the way that the Shinigami had assumed that they'd be perfectly willing to help out without reading the contract all the way through. He'd read it, too used to people trying to scam him, and altered it just enough to let them stay free. It had been a dick move, Ichigo knew, but part of him was just too tired to protest- already saving up energy for the next fight instead of going into one they were doomed to lose.

Inoue had been furious at the representative who'd attempted to haul them all off to Hueco Mundo. Ichigo still wasn't certain which had pissed her off more- the fact that he'd ignored the contract that they'd delivered, or the way he'd called her 'functionally irrelevant' and tried to grab her ass. He'd ended up bodily hurled through the Senkaimon the second it had opened, and they'd promptly decamped to the room that they slept in at the Shoten.

Ichigo kind of felt bad that his anger was less big. It felt settled, though- just like it was pointless to be angry about a mountain existing in your way, it was pointless to get mad at the fact that they were being betrayed and used for either profit or power- he wasn't quite sure which. He was, instead, angry at the Visored- for a variety of reasons, of course, but it boiled down to the fact that they were hypocrites.

They'd told him not to be so open about his powers then flaunted their own inhumanity every chance they got. They'd told him to accept himself then said that his Hollow (named Shiro, because apparently none of them were very good at naming things) was a monster and needed to be held back. They'd told him that the fangs and senses and hunger for meat was part of being part-Hollow and it was perfectly normal, then told him to file down his teeth and eat more vegetables instead.

Mama had told him to lie, to hide parts of himself, but she'd never told him that he was wrong for being the way he was- just that he was different, and that it was dangerous to be some kinds of different and that he should get to make the choice to tell people about it instead of having everyone know. He kept his mouth a bit closed when he spoke, but he'd never filed down his teeth no matter how sharp they'd grown in. He lied about how well he could see in the dark, but never bothered with glasses or turning himself into a living ghost to avoid questions. It hurt, being told that part of him was fundamentally wrong- and though Shiro didn't say anything, he knew it hurt him too.

To soothe the ache of hurt feelings, Ichigo had instead leaned more into being a wild, feral thing. The Visoreds weren't even that good at holding Hollow power- even so early into learning how to work with each other, Ichigo and Shiro were already able to hold themselves in unison for longer then all of them combined (save for Mashiro, who was nice but tiring to be around) and Shiro had promised that once Ichigo had gotten a bit more settled into listening to his instincts and accepting the fact that he was going to be a bit monstrous all the time, he'd teach him more of the Hollow-specific stuff.

This meant piling up with his best friends when things got rough, and Ichigo had no idea why the Visoreds wouldn't want this. Even Ishida, shaking with the delayed betrayal he'd refused to deal with for the past two weeks, had relaxed when they'd stripped away street clothing in favor of yukata and piling under a heap of blankets in what had become their bedroom. Ichigo was mad about that, too- it was one thing for Goat-Face to be useless, but he didn't know anything- it was another for Ishida Ryuuken to know far more than his son and have the skills to back it up and not only tell him nothing, but actively try to get him to stop training and learning. Ishida genuinely liked being a Quincy, Ichigo knew, liked learning about the Quincy arts and mastering new skills, and it had kept him alive even before he'd met Ichigo and gotten dragged into all this. Ichigo was fairly glad he'd gotten into the habit of avoiding the hospital, because now it meant he was far less likely to do something that he'd regret before Ishida had decided what he wanted to do.

For now, Ichigo shifted his grip, prised up his fingers when Inoue made a slight noise of protest till he just had a loose grip on her wrist instead of a death grip, and settled in for a long drowy night. He had his friends. They were safe. The future would come when it would.

[despairforme]

1.1k orbs and still no nnoi.....

[ MAN anon that sucks !! There is still time to get him! You can do it !! I ended up having to spend 2550 orbs, but FINALLY !!!! He's here with me and I'm stoked !! Praying for you to also get him, and ( hopefully ) having to spend less orbs than I did T - T For me I'm actually pretty happy with only having to spend 2.5k because the last Nnoitra cost me I think over 6k LOL fjfjfjf ]

[uraharashouten]

Her hand was small and warm in his, and he breathed a relieved sigh at this gesture of trust and cooperation. "I assure you, Ayame-dono, that it is my priority to ensure the comfort and safety of those who reside here," protested Tessai, who had no capacity for speaking in any mode besides formal. "So please do not be concerned on my behalf. It would be my pleasure to escort you."

Gently releasing her hand, he put his palms together and began to incant, then made a series of broader gestures. Before them, shimmering panels slid aside to open a dimensional doorway, through which could be seen the main Senkaimon plaza of Soul Society, facing inwards from the gate. As he led her through, he took a moment to orient himself. It had been an age. But after a moment, he led off in the direction of Fourth Division, to the best of his recollection. "I believe it is this way."

She wasn't really trying hard, just needing a minute to think and really… Trying to pull this Kido right in front of someone, let alone that someone being a master of kido, wasn't the wisest thing she's done.

Ayame looked at him from behind that little curtain she made and let out a sigh. He was right, and she needed to get looked at. Figure out if she was pregnant or not for sure. Then… what? She had no idea how her parents managed dealing with herself and her brother. For some reason, her memory shorted out trying to remember that far back, but she could remember playing with Shinji.

Maybe having someone along is what she needed, "If you have time an' all, I don' wanna catch ya in the middle'a sump'in." Hopefully having someone with her will keep her nerves settled, "an' ya don' gotta be all formal with me y'know." That at least put a smile on her face, before reaching out to take his hand, "Let's go?"

[my-my-my]

Happy belated birthday Shinji!

Had this idea running for a while, and decided to share it for his birthday! I’ve been obsessed with Severance and it gave me an idea. You don’t have to have watched Severance for this one-shot. Also Kubo acknowledged the inconsistent timeline with jazz and TBTP arc lmao, so I’m not gonna fix it either.

Summary: Shinji learns, in real time, how much music brings people together, time and time again.

CW: Angst, mild horror, time skipping, but it has a happy ending. SFW!

Word count: 4570

For what it was worth, Shinji dreaded most of the bureaucratic duties he was tasked with since becoming captain. He didn’t quite see himself as a leader, but oddly enough, it felt natural to command the Fifth Division. There were times where he wondered if he was doing what was right, what was necessary for his squad, but those doubts left as fast as they came. He never liked to entertain any unnecessary thoughts.

But it didn’t help that Sakanade was gleeful about Lieutenant Aizen. It left Shinji uneasy around his subordinate. An immediate repulsion that someone his zanpakuto resonated with made Shinji wary.

But there were perks to being a captain, he couldn’t deny that. One such perk was visiting the World of the Living more freely. Soul Society is, understandably, too militaristic for his liking. The breath of fresh air amongst living mortals was a one Shinji readily accepted.

He envied their exploration in the arts. It was something him and Captain Otoribashi bonded over. Living mortals were incredibly creative in their short lifespans, music, visual arts, storytelling, all of it left Shinji wanting more.

It had been a few years since Shinji’s last visit. One he was looking forward to. He wondered what new things humans discovered and shared amongst themselves.

Shinji’s gigai was as stiff as ever, as he trudged down the bustling streets. He cranked his neck from time to time, scoffing at the rigidness of the artificial body, “they need to get better at makin’ these” he grumbled.

But his sour mood wouldn’t stay for long. Springtime was in full bloom in the World of the Living, as trees were dotted with buds and blossoms, signs of warmer weather to come. He took his time exploring the city. There were new art trends, galleries to visit and clothing stores to shop at. And his new Captain income was certainly another perk in coming here.

Yet he didn’t buy much at this visit, not many things caught his eye, but as he walked towards the area of where his Senkaimon gate was, he heard music playing in an innocuous-looking store.

“Sure, why the hell not.” Shinji mumbled.  

He stepped into the group of people as he tried to make his way through the front of whatever they were circled around. The music grew louder and louder the closer he approached.

In the centre of the throngs of people, stood some kind of device, it was spinning something, with a horn-like object playing music from it. “What the hell is it?”

“It’s a phonograph!” You chirped up. Shinji looked at you, but you were enthralled in the device, your eyes sparkling with wonder and enjoyment.

You seemed… friendly and you seemed to know what it was about. He scooted his way over to you as more people piled in his spot. He had questions he needed answering.

“So how does it work?” He asks, standing right next to you.

You jumped at the sound of his voice, to which he chuckled. “Oh,” you sheepishly said, “gimme a moment and I’ll get back to you.”

Shinji stood there, listening to the music, and watching you. He didn’t quite… care for the music, it sounded like a western military band for his tastes, but he enjoyed the reactions you gave to it. Well, not to the music…

As Shinji watched you from the corner of his eye, he could see your eyes dart around the device. The music was secondary, it was the device itself that you were starstruck by. He wasn’t sure how long the two of you stood there for, but he realize, the song had started again.

“Hey, so how about my question earlier?” He mumbled.

You looked at him with surprise, “I didn’t think you’d still be here!” And now you felt guilty. You took a glance at the phonograph, then back at Shinji. Maybe it’ll be quick and you can come back inside?

So you pulled him out of the shop. Dusk was settling into the streets, with the faint hum of cicadas fading away.

“You asked me how it works, right?” You asked him, finally getting a look at him. You had never seen this man before. He looked a bit unusual to you with his long blonde hair, and his straight, yet white, teeth.

“Yeah, you knew what it was.” Shinji explained, wondering if he was wasting his time.

“So that was a phonograph, the first of its kind!” You exclaimed. “That disc you saw, that was going round and round,” you twirled your fingers in the air, “has vibrations recorded on to it.” Your eyes were sparkling again, and with the glow of dusk behind you, Shinji had to admit you were pretty cute. “Those vibrations are music!”

“Wow, how do you know about this?” He asked, giving her a look.

You looked embarrassed, flustered even, “I’m a maid at the inventor’s house,” you looked at the ground.

Ah right, Shinji surmised. The few drawbacks of the World of the Living, the sorry state of women’s education.

“Well ya did a good job explaining it to me.” He ruffled your head, “you did your boss proud.”

You blushed at the compliment, “thank you!”

“I’m Shinji by the way.”

You introduced yourself as well, as you began to relax around the man. He had more technical questions about the device, and you hoped you could answer them as well as your boss explained to you.

Night was drawing near, and so was your hunger. Your stomach grumbled loudly, leaving you embarrassed.

“Hey, I took up a lot of yer time today.” Shinji drawled, “I’ll treat you to dinner, least I can do.” He shrugged his shoulders, “I’m new here though, so take me to a place ya like.”

“Oh, ok!” That would explain the foreign air the man, Shinji, gave off. His accent was oddly charming. The two of you strolled down the street, enjoying the light conversation and the fading sound of the phonograph.

Shinji, the mysterious man of your youth, made frequent visits to you once he found out your days off or when your shift ended. It embarrassed you at first, for him to see you in your maid uniform, but he would give his Cheshire grin and say you looked cute regardless.

Hand in hand, the two of you would walk across the city, as you instilled in him a love for music. So much so, you would sing for him. At first, you were embarrassed, but Shinji was enamoured. You wrote lyrics to the music that the phonograph would play and eventually sang them to Shinji. “I’ll always be your number one fan, babe.” He would chuckle, kissing you on the lips.

Tonight though, you told him that your boss hoped that his invention would bring people together.

“I think he did that, eh?” Shinji chuckled, squeezing your hand.

You smiled, squeezing his hand in return, “he did, but –”

“But?”

“I hope this means we hear more and different kinds of music.” You murmured, as the two of you listened to the phonograph in store.

“Like what?”

“Oh, I don’t know, but this gives people something to think about, you know?” You said softly, wondering what kind of music, sounds, noises, people would record. “I just think it’s exciting.”

 Shinji couldn’t help but smile at your thought, “yeah, yer right about that. And that means I can hear you sing more and more.” You blushed as you shoved Shinji away, his laughter filling your ears.

Shinji decided to buy a phonograph for you (and for him). A gift from him you could hold on to when Soul Society was too demanding of him, and he couldn’t see you. His heart fluttered as you cried at his gift, shocked that he would buy something so expensive for someone like you. You wrote a particular song for him that night, a song to show your appreciation and love for him.

But you were special to him – special in a way he couldn’t say. Unlike you, his words bubbled up in his throat, to only pop and vanish once he opened his mouth. He could only hug and kiss you. Physically showing his sincerity for you.

But maybe, his gift was too much for you.

Shinji stared at the barricaded apartment – he had only been gone a few days. But in that small window of time, someone had broken into your home and murdered you, stealing the phonograph in the process.

Human lives… were short… but this was cruel.

Music filled Shinji’s office in the Squad 5 barracks. He fixed his bangs in the mirror. Sometimes, he could hear your voice, song and laughter, as if teasing him about how transfixed he was on his hair.

He made his record player louder.

How many years had it been since your murder? 20 years? 40 years? It bothered Shinji that he continued to grow and “live” (or live as well as any Shinigami could), while you were becoming a distant memory, one he dreaded losing to time.

Some days, like today, he wondered if it was worth exploring Rukongai for you. “But that’s like finding a needle in a hay stack,” he mumbled, lowering the volume of his music.

“Finding what, Captain?” Lieutenant Aizen asked, appearing at the door of Shinji’s office.

It grated Shinji to no end how his lieutenant appeared at such convenient times, as if he was trying to catch Shinji off guard.

Might as well give this dog a bone Shinji thought to himself, wondering what motive Aizen was playing at.

“Can ya get me the records of the souls that entered in the past 50 years?”

Aizen gave a confused look, “what for, sir?”

“I got a bone to pick with a human – they owe me something.”

“I see…” Aizen said, disbelief covering his face, “I’ll get on that.”

“Ya better, now get outta here Sosuke, got a Captain’s meeting comin’” He shooed Aizen away, wondering if the lieutenant would be a nuisance somehow.

As much grief as Shinji and Sosuke gave each other, Shinji hated to admit that the man did do his work diligently. After the captains’ meeting, Shinji was greeted with a stack of entries of all new souls that had entered in the past 50 years or so.

Soul Society, for all its bureaucracy and idiosyncrasies, collected information on souls that were entering, documenting their age, and if possible, their “category” of death. Shinji waded through the papers, scanning and skimming to find your name amongst the thousands that have passed.

He started with the oldest entries. He knew Sosuke would get overtly suspicious if he asked him for files from a specific set of years, so he would feign interest with the newer souls that had passed.

And within a few hours, he found your name. Shinji let out a sigh, partly of relief – knowing that you passed on without having the need for a Shinigami nor did you interact with a hollow, but sad that you were now in Rukongai District 48 South. Not as dangerous as those past 60, but he knew the conditions of many of the districts were in poor shape.

“Captain, I may be of help since you’re looking for someone specific.” His lieutenant approached. Shinji wanted to roll his eyes but wanted to mess with his lieutenant a little.

“If ya want to, sure.” Shinji responded, flipping through documents haphazardly. “I’m looking for a Taichi Suzuki, from Nakasu.”

Sosuke nodded his head and began to flip through the newer entries, as Shinji pretended to flip through others. The office began to darken as nightfall approached. Only the sounds of paper shuffling could be heard.

“I think I found them, sir.” Sosuke said calmly, holding the paper.

“Gimme that…” And Shinji wanted to laugh, there was a Taichi Suzuki from Nakasu in District 48 South.

"Great find, Sosuke!" Shinji wanted to cackle but gave a cheshire grin as he swiped the document out of his lieutenant’s hands.

“Let’s call it a day, see ya bright an early tomorrow.” Sosuke nodded his head as he made his leave.

Once Shinji was certain he was alone, he rubbed his face, sighing. It was one of the rare times in his life where he felt nervous. You had been in Soul Society for 50 years; would you even remember him?

But that was a problem for tomorrow. For now, his bed was calling his name.

Rukongai District 48 South was an inconspicuous place, like many of the other districts in the 40s. The houses were shabbier than the ones before it, but there was still some semblance of a town that people resided in, rather than the scant huts that were in the 50s and 60s.

Shinji casually strolled down the worn paths, opting to leave his captain’s haori in the Squad 5 barracks. He wasn’t here on official business, so there was no need to scare off the townsfolk of his presence. He would look like any other random fodder of Shinigami passing by.

There wasn’t anything remarkable that made the district standout. Some districts were known for their agricultural endeavours, while others for fashion or even furniture. But District 49 South was as unremarkable as they come. There wasn’t a even a flutter of spiritual pressure in the vicinity.

Shinji walked into a busy tea shop. He wasn’t particularly hungry or thirsty, but oftentimes these were the best places for information. Finding an empty table, he strummed his fingers waiting to be served. The conversations seemed to be irrelevant to what he was looking for.

“What nice weather we’re having.”

“We haven’t had much rain though. Not good for the crops.”

“Well the river is teeming with fish.”

He let out a yawn as he continued to wait, with nothing of interest to capture his attention.

“Sorry for the wait, sir! What would you like?”

Shinji’s eyes widen at you, deep in an apologetic bow, not yet lifting yourself up.

“Hey, doll. Long time, no see.” Shinji cooly said, a small grin on his face.

You gasped and screeched, alerting the other customers. You quickly apologized to the other patrons before heading to the back, asking for a small break.

Shinji couldn’t help but smile. You remembered him just fine.

Shinji conveniently paid the tea shop owners a hefty sum to let you free for the day, and they didn’t bat an eye. Just like when you were alive, Shinji continued to amaze you.

“How are you likin’ it here? You ok?” He asked, as the two of you sat along the river.

“It’s… fine? I guess. It’s strange not needing to eat.” You explained. “But some nights I get to sing to customers.” You gave a sheepish smile, “I think I’m getting better.”

“I miss hearin’ ya sing for me, doll.” Shinji murmured, cupping your face in his hand. You gave him a warm smile and began to hum an old tune, a song he hadn’t heard in decades. You began to sing softly to him, words long forgotten that he yearned to remember.

But once your song was over, you opened your eyes, confusion evident in them, “I don’t get it, Shinji – are you dead too?”

Shinji sighed and scratched the back of his head. He had a lot to explain to you.

“I can explain it to you if ya want, but it’s long.”

You gave him a gentle smile, as you placed your hand on top of his, “For you, I have all the time in the world.”

Shinji felt his heart flutter.

It took another decade, but Shinji was adamant on moving you into Rukongai District 2. He kept that paperwork separately, lest Lieutenant Aizen find out. But Old Man Yamamoto was a traditionalist, and moving a random soul between districts was unheard of, and almost always, immediately rejected.

Unless you were married.

Did… did you want to be married to Shinji? His mind wracked with all the ways you would say no.

There’s just no way you would agree, right? Maybe if he phrased it as a mutual, as a beneficial thing for you?

But you weren’t like that, Shinji knew as much. You didn’t ask for much, especially from him. You had repeatedly told him that seeing him again, being with him again and being together, was more than enough.

“Ah fuck it.” He grumbled, pulling an ornate box out. It was a kimono of exquisite silk and hand painted gold embellishments… his heart thudded loudly.

He made his way to District 48 South, to where you lived near the tea shop. Shinji had paid the board and rent for you, letting you keep your earnings. But as he made his way through the town, there was not a soul in sight.

Shinji grew tense with every step he made towards your home. There was no one, not a single soul present. Normally he would hear the chattering of everyday conversation, of some random children playing, but it was completely silent.

He flashed stepped towards the tea shop, dropping the box on to the ground. Blood and torn clothes were strewn all over the entrance to the shop. He could hear something inside the shop, something moving. The spiritual pressure was insignificant compared to a hollow or a seated Shinigami member, but in a district where there was no one with spiritual pressure to begin with, this was unusual to him.

Shinji quickly entered the shop and drew out his sword. He took in a deep breath as he witnessed the scene in front of him. There, in the middle of the once busy tea shop, were half eaten bodies, and some… creature gnawing on your lifeless one.

They looked hollow-like, but human sized. Without hesitation, Shinji swung his sword, killing the creature. Your body dropped onto the ground, your lifeless eyes staring at him. Shinji fell to his knees, cradling your body before running his fingers over your eyes.

His heart began to sink as your body began to fade. He quickly weaved a message to his squad, knowing that an investigation would take place soon.

But before they would come, Shinji weaved a kido spell, setting alight the kimono.

Shinji sighed as he stared at the city lights out over the horizon. Being exiled was strange. He was… free, yet not free. He could roam the World of the Living to his hearts content, but…

He hated to admit it, but he missed Soul Society.

But one thing the World of the Living did better were clothes, food and music. He didn’t care much for food, but the sheer variety astounded him. Lisa had brought pizza which he had never heard about before, but devoured immediately (much to the fury of Hiyori). Tiramisu? Hamburgers? Smoothies? He felt like he was quicker on the pulse here compared to whatever Soul Society was feeding its soldiers.

But then… there was the music. Him and Rose bonded over the different genres of music humans were producing. There were some genres he didn’t care for, but others that grabbed at him. Rose was partial to classical and rock music, but Shinji’s tastes were more “eclectic.”

He grew fond of the radio, hearing the Top 40 of any country he could find his hands on. He began to collect vinyl records of musicians he enjoyed, of unique and interesting instruments he had never heard of (Shinji immediately bought a theremin for his personal collection).

In a small part of his mind, he wondered what you would think of this. What genres would you like? The slow and calming sounds of ambient music? Or the clever and witty rhymes of hip-hop? Would you enjoy concerts? Dance clubs?

But those thoughts were becoming less frequent. He had to move on. He would hold on to his grudge for Aizen, crave revenge for not only him and the Visoreds, but also for you, but his “exile” would be to experience life for you.

 Tokyo was as bustling as ever in the night. Party goers laughing, crying and shouting, enjoying their night as Shinji walked by them. He could hear different songs play from the many shops and establishments he passed by, some were songs he recognized, others he didn’t particularly cared for.

Until he heard a familiar voice.

He swung his head to a random bar blasting a song. Shock was all over his face as he recognized that voice.

It was you!

Shinji barged inside to the few patrons enjoying their drinks and conversation. In a small corner of the bar, laid a TV with the singer, the singer with your voice.

“Oi, barkeep” Shinji shouted, trying to catch the bartender’s attention. The bartender, an older man, looked at Shinji.

“I’ll take an old fashioned and –” Shinji pointed the TV, “do you know who that is?”

The bartender looked surprised at the question but shook his head.

A patron next to Shinji, in a drunken stupor, laughed and slapped Shinji’s back, telling the name of the singer.

“She’s up and coming ya know! Got quite a following.”

“Do ya know if she’s playing a concert anytime soon?”

“Nah, but she’s got a fan club if yer interested.” The man burped, taking a pen out. He wrote the address of the fan club.

Shinji slapped his change for the drink, but bolted out the bar as soon as the song ended, his drink completely untouched.

Shinji was aware of idol culture, but he didn’t expect a similar culture for up-and-coming singers, such as you.. well was it you?

The singer sounded exactly like you, the mannerisms were eerily the same, you just wore modern clothing, your hair styled with the current trends of the time.

And you still smiled the same way that would make his heart flutter.

He had never spoke to you though, watching from a distance as you sang to the crowd. You would close your eyes at some lyrics, as if in a trance. Your songwriting astounded him, how much it sounded as if you from the past wrote it.

It had to be you. It had to be your reincarnation.

Tonight your manager, or whoever this person was organizing the event, announced that there would be a meet and greet at the end of tonight’s show. The crowd cheered as you waved politely.

Shinji took a deep breath; it was now or never.

The meet and greet was a fairly short affair. To his surprise, not many people wanted to meet with you, but that worked in his favour.

He was one of the last remaining concertgoers and he could see the weariness in your eyes. You were becoming exhausted, but you kept your smile for every fan that came your way. And now it was his turn.

Shinji extended his hand, “yer songs are beautiful.” He murmured.

You immediately grabbed his hand but jolted at the touch. Your eyes met.

“I – thank you.” You stammered, “have we met before?”

Shinji shook his head, letting go of your hand, “no, I’m just a fan of yer music.” He grinned.

You gave a look to your manager, but Shinji let go, making way for the next fan to come to you.

He slowly began to walk out of the venue before he heard yelling behind him, it was your manager. “Wait!”

Shinji stopped, letting the manager catch their breath. “I – she wants to talk to you once she’s done.”

Shinji raised his eyebrows, a flicker of hope growing inside him, but he knew better to have any expectations. He would hear you out and the two of you would go your separate ways.

He was ushered into your changing room. It wasn’t much of a room, he could see a backpack, water bottles, and some snacks. He felt guilty for some reason – should he have brought flowers?

He leaned against the wall, closing his eyes. Memories of you over time flashed over his mind, frustrating him. It didn’t help your voice was stuck in his head too.

“Thank you for waiting.” You barged into the room, bowing deeply at Shinji.

“It’s no problem.” He replied, waving his hand. “What’s up?”

“I just – are you sure we haven’t met?”

Shinji shook his head, “you probably saw me around a lot at yer shows.” He said softly. “I’m a big fan.”

You looked at him with confusion, “no, I swear I’ve met you before…”

Shinji shrugged his shoulders, “maybe yer used to seeing me in the crowd. This is my first time going to your meet-and-greet though.”

You sighed loudly, examining Shinji’s face. This man looked so familiar to you. His voice even sounded familiar too.

And then realization hit you, with heat spreading to your cheeks. Shinji looked at you with a curious expression, wondering what had gotten you quiet and flustered.

“This is so embarrassing,” you mumbled, “but I think I remember where.”

“Where?”

“… my dreams.”

Shinji raised his eyebrows, “I mean, maybe because I’ve been in the crowd.”

“No!” You yelled, “I mean, you looked a bit different.”

Shinji shut his mouth, letting you continue.

“You had… longer hair, much longer.” You clicked your tongue, “and I don’t think you had a piercing.” Shinji grew alarmed. “You also wore… some kind of white haori with black clothing? And carried a sword.”

Shinji sighed. He could deny this, letting you wonder, and never appearing again… but what kind of chance was this? “Fate is truly a fickle woman.”

You gave him a confused look.

“How long have ya got? There’s a lot to tell you.”

“All night.” You grinned proudly, “tell me everything Mister…”

“Shinji, just call me Shinji. Ya never did call me by my last name anyways.”

You stared at him with another confused look on your face.

Momo ran down the halls of the Squad 5 barracks in a hurry. She clutched the paperwork to her chest tightly as she sprinted past her fellow seated members, down to Captain Hirako’s office.

She panted as she entered, “I have some –” as she exhaled, “papers that require your immediate signature, sir.”

Shinji placed a new record into his player, letting it play as he got seated into desk, “sure thing, Momo. Bring ‘em here.”

Momo dropped the documents on to his desk and immediately sat down on the other chair, letting the music play as Shinji skimmed through the documents. The voice sounded familiar, “sir, is this by that one popular singer in the World of the Living?”

“Yeah it is,” he said, without looking up from his paper, “I’m her biggest fan.”

“Really?!” Momo exclaimed, “I like a lot of her songs, she’s so talented.”

“She sure is,” Shinji grinned, putting down his pen.

“But I haven’t heard this song of her’s before. Is it new?”

“I wouldn’t say new…” Shinji drawled, “but a limited, unreleased one.”

“It’s beautiful.” Momo sighed, as she continued listening to the song. Shinji smiled, humming along to the song.

For just anyone, It is not, I told you, It is only just for you I do not want it to be just once I want my song to reach you right now And the next year too Let the two of us together Go watch the cherry blossoms

Reader made a special EP for Shinji's birthday hahaha. THANKS FOR READING!!! The song at the end is the translated bits from "Yamazakura" by Taeko Onuki.

Edit: forgot to explain some things LOL

Taichi Suzuki from Nakasu is a reference to Yakuza 5 (Kiryu’s alias in the red light district)

Wedding rings weren’t really a thing in Japan until post-WWII. Usually a woman wore her obi and kimono a particular way to signify that she was married. I decided to have Shinji gift her a kimono as an engagement present of sorts.

[wheelsome]

Klub Outside QnA (601-700).

Q604

This is a question about Kidō Corps. In the original story, there is a description of them opening the Senkaimon, but what do they usually do? Like covert operations, depending on their characteristics

A604

The Kido Corps are in charge of the research & development of Kidō, more specifically in “making Kidō easier to use”. Shinigami can use Kidō is because the methods of learning it have been well established thanks to the Kidō Corps research.

Q605

Regarding Kyoka Suigetsu's complete hypnosis, for example, if you use a camera to photograph something that appears to be something else during hypnosis, will the photograph or video appear to be the original thing?

A605

If the person taking the photo or video is already under hypnosis then they will not be able to see the real thing.

Q606

Byakuya addresses individuals outside his family either by their last name or full name, so is there some reason why he calls Renji by his first name?

A606

It’s because Rukia called him by his first name. 

Q607

In volume 35, chapter 313, there’s a part where Nnoitra says in a flashback, “I want to be cut down…”, but is that a scene where he was talking to Tesla rather than being a monologue to himself? If so, was Tesla the only one who knew about Nnoitra’s wish (if that’s the correct way to word it)? I love the flow of those scenes from the words in that flashback to the moment when Tesla collapses, and it’s forever etched into my memory. 

A607

That’s correct. He’s speaking to Tesla.

Q608

I’d like to ask about the change of shape in the Zanpakutō belonging to the 5th Espada, Nnoitra. In the flashbacks, during the time he was 8th Espada, there was one crescent-shaped part, but later it increased to two. What is the primary cause behind this change of shape in his Zanpakutō? I’m thinking that it involves factors such as amplifying the amount of basic Reiatsu and changes to the mind and body through training, but what do you say?

A608

It’s a change in the quantity and inherent quality of his Reiatsu. An Arrancar’s sword is their power itself, so changes in Reiatsu are likely to manifest in its shape.

Q610

Is Captain Ukitake's grave on the site of Ukendo? Or was it built somewhere else?

A610

Ukitake’s grave is located in the old site of the Ugendo Quarters found in Squad 13.

Q611

When souls arrive at Ryukongai after being buried, do they just appear out of nowhere? Or do they pop up in a predetermined location once they're buried?

A611

After the souls are exorcised they just spawn randomly in Rukongai.

Q614

Genryusai Yamamoto Shigekuni was erased by Yhwach, but Szayelaporro told us that is in Hell. So, will a Shinigami not be destroyed even if he is hit by the Quincies spirit bow?

A614

Quincy arrows were originally designed for Hollows, so they cannot erase anything else.

Q616

What do Gigi and the others think of Bambi? Also, do the five of them get along?

A616

It would be hard to explain that here but all four of them have different opinions on Bambi and whether they get along with each other depends on how you view things.

Q617

Regarding the captain's haori, in the First captain's and Gokui Meimei-hen versions there was a slit at the back hem, but is it possible to choose whether the slit is made with the sleeves or without it?

A617

The first gen captains haori, which used to have a slit in the back to make it easier to carry their zanpakutō but it's not there nowadays because the captain's rarely carry their zanpakutō's due to a long period of peace.

Q619

I love how cool the Arrancars mask patterns are! Are the mask pattern different for each individual? Or was it given to them by Aizen as an influence when they became Arrancars, like the numbering of the espada?

A619

Each design is unique and differs between individuals.

Q622

If Hōzukimaru is in sealed state and chants "Rip" Hōzukimaru, will he be released into the Sansetsukon state? Or is "Rip" not a release command, but rather a way to turn from a spear into the three-section staff?

A622

Hozukimaru’s release command is “Stretch”, which assumes the spear form. Whereas “Rip” is a special command which assumes the Sansetsukon form when releasing his Shikai.

Q623

Shinji Hirako has been appearing since the first volume, but was he scheduled to appear earlier? If so, I'm curious as to what role he was supposed to play...

A623

Even though that was the initial plan, he ended up not becoming one of Ichigo’s classmates, because I thought people would go like “Oh, he’s been in Ichigo’s class this whole time. Just like Uryu?”. His character would’ve been the exact same though, regarding everything else.

Q625

During the TBTP arc, Tessai was shocked saying " Did the vice-captain stopped my Hadōwith a chantless Danku". Would Tessai’s Hadō 88 have broken through the barrier and ignored the “block all Hadō's underneath 89” property if the chantless Danku had been casted by an average Lieutenant?

A625

Yes, it would have and prior to Aizen, no Lieutenant has ever used a chantless Danku.

Q626

Is it possible for Yhwach to bestow holy letters to Shinigami, Hollow & Arrancars?

A626

If he so wishes, he could grant them schrift as well.

Q627

If a member of the Gotei 13 is not granted permission to carry a Zanpakutō, where is it stored?

A627

All the Zanpakuto's that haven’t received a usage permit yet are stored within the personal office of each Captain, VC and soldier station.

Q628

Can Ginjo's bankai be stollen by the Sternritter's medallion? Or is it impossible because it has hollow power mixed in?

A628

It cannot be stolen by the Medallion, due to it being mixed with Hollow power.

Q631

100 years ago, the 9th squad captain Muguruma wore a special white uniform similar to captain's haori, but why did commander-in-chief allowed it? Did he not get angry and say "No it's too complicated!"?

A631

Captain commander did get mad but since Muguruma already made it he was using it.

Q638

I believe that the Loyd & Granz brothers are identical twins while Karin & Yuzu are fraternal twins. Is that correct?

A638

You are right.

Q640

I have a question about Mayuri's makeup. Mayuri-sama's makeup doesn't come off even in intense battles, so does he uses cosmetics that contain some special ingredients (ingredients that never come off?).

A640

He has a specialized device that draws a pre-programmed pattern on his face when inserted in.

Q644

Is Hikifune Kiryu's normal state, plump or skinny? I believe it's the skinny form because Shinji didn’t recognized her in her fat form and she loses a lot of weight when cooking, so she stores up fat for that process specifically.

A644

I believe the "form" she spends the most time in is her normal one.

Q647

Do Arrancars take bath? If they do, wouldn't Nelliel for example be unable of wash because of the mask on her head?

A647

The mask remnants are not stuck on arrancars bodies and actually hover above the skin slightly, which should allow them to wash underneath.

Q648

When Toshiro's Bankai was stolen by the medallion, He described it, as if the soul of Hyorinmaru itself was also stolen. However, does the fact that he could still use Shikai does mean that Shikai can be used without zanpakutō spirit?

In the Zanpakutō Rebellion arc, only those who had learned Bankai could use Shikai even though their Zanpakutō had materialized and defected. So does this mean when a shinigami masters Bankai, the power of Shikai becomes shinigami's own power rather than that of the zanpakutō spirit?

A648

Shikai is the state in which the wielder’s power is reflected onto the sword. While Bankai is the state in which the "ego" born is developed and manifested onto the sword.

Q651

Akon was portrayed in the Hell chapter to mainly fight by using various substances and devices. While Mayuri does have a zanpakutō which he uses, do the other members of R&D don't have one to carry with themselves?

A651

Akon certainly has a zanpakutō, as well as other members.

Q652

At the end of Volume 6, Episode 50, it is reported that Rukia was found in this world, is the search for these missing Shinigami also the work of Onmitsukidō? Or is it work of a special division yet to be revealed?

A652

It is indeed the 4th Onmitsukidō division, called Hichoutai that is in charge of locating missing shinigami's and due to the nature of their work, the unit has deep connections with the Research & Development Department, sharing a lot of their work.

Q654

By removing their mask, an Arrancar takes on a human-like appearance. But do any further changes happen due to aging and other such factors? Or is it like in Nelliel’s case where her appearance changed due to external factors like having been weakened?

A654

It ranges from those who change after a few years to those who stay the same for hundreds of years. In general, physical changes occur. However, it’s more so due to spiritual and reiatsu changes rather than aging.

Q655

In case of Arrancars who have a human appearance, does it reflects the original appearance of the soul that the Hollows consumed when they become a menos? Or is the appearance of the souls that they’ve attacked up until then also mixed in randomly?

A655

Generally, it’s the appearance of the “devourer” that remains.

Q657

If by the time a person in the Living World has already awakened some spiritual sort of power before they pass over to SS, could they enroll in the Shin’o Academy or even become Shinigami, if they wish to do so? Also, are there any characters that have gone through this process?

A657

It’s possible. But I will neither confirm nor deny the existence of such individuals.

Q658

When I was discussing about the wound on Hinamori's chest with a friend, it came up how in the Arrancar Arc Kisuke said how the 4th Division Captain and Vice Captain's Kaidō was better than Orihime's power of rejection, which got me curious and made me leave this question. Leaving aside the recovery of Reiatsu, which one provides a more efficient treatment?

A658

All three of them use different methods so they can’t be compared with one another. Kisuke’s statement was in regards to Orihime’s prowess at that point in time as well as a means of keeping her away from the front lines.

Q660

Does Aizen decide the Espada replacements? Or is it similar to the title of Kenpachi, in which the victor replaces the previous one and Aizen simply assigns them a number?

A660

Both scenarios are applicable.

Q661

Are the standards for appointing seated officers in the Gotei 13 differ from squad to squad? Considering their distinctive characteristics, I assume seated officers appointed for the 4th and 12th divisions are also accounted for their healing and research capabilities apart from their combat skills.

A661

Generally, the upper ranking seats are appointed by the captain. So rather than the standards differing from squad to squad, they differ from captain to captain.

Q664. 

In "Hanketsu ni Saku (Blooming in the Cold Moon)" Rangiku and others showed fireworks to Hitsugaya but did Rangiku requested Kūkaku or the 12th Division to launch those fireworks? If it was Kūkaku, I wonder when the two made contact and whether Kūkaku would accept a request from a Shinigami, given the incident with Kaien.

A664 

Those were set off by a fireworks maker in the Seireitei. There are several schools of fireworks makers in the Seireitei, one of which was founded by the Shiba family.

Q665

"Are Aaroniero and Szayel doing well in hell?"

A665

Yes.

Q666

What are the abilities of Isane Kotetsu’s zanpakutō, Itegumo? Since she’s a member of Squad 4, I imagine they’re healing related.

A666

It’s an ice-snow type with healing properties.

Q667

Ukitake gave Hitsugaya candies because their names were similar. Was there any other reason for doing so besides this?

A667

Ukitake is simply affectionate towards children by nature so he doesn’t need any particular reason to do so.

Q670

I have a question regarding Yayahara Yuyu. When she arrived to the Living World in the Hell arc, I didn’t see her carrying a zanpakutō, but instead she was fighting with her bare hands. Was she using Hakuda? Or does her zanpakutō transform into her nails while in Shikai?

A670

Her Shikai is indeed her nails. She often uses her Shikai for styling, despite being scolded about it from the members of other squads, that is.

Q671

Did Katagiri and Masaki ever talk to each other when they were at the Ishida Residence? I thought it would’ve been cute for two girls of close age talking to each other. Katagiri’s tenure as a servant seemed quite long and it didn’t seem like she had many friends either.

A671

They did. Since Masaki is the type of person who talks to everyone, Katagiri who was close to her age was like a friend to her.

Q673

Is there any male character from Bleach media out of the Living World, Soul Society, Hueco Mundo or among Quincies that you think is the most handsome (or that you consciously draw in a way that would be considered handsome)?

A673

Hitsugaya, Byakuya, Szayelaporro and Haschwalth. All of them fit the “beautiful character” archetype so I draw them accordingly.

Q674

I have a question regarding Stark. How strong is he really? I can't imagine him being stronger (or more lethal) than Barragan, so I guess it’s his spiritual pressure?

Also, regarding the timing of him joining Aizen's forces, judging from the way it was depicted it appears that he joined the Espada after Aizen had already acquired the Hogyoku.

If so, then:

1) His spiritual pressure was so strong prior to splitting that even someone of Aizen class couldn't detect it.

2) Aizen had sensed it, but considering his spiritual pressure it could have been difficult to deal with him, so I guess that Aizen decided to leave him until the situation had settled.

I really like Stark, but he doesn't appear much and I have little hope that he will return in any future media. So I would like to know more about him!

A674

 It’s 2). I think Stark's appeal is that he's a guy who’s difficult to read.

Q675

If Chad, Orihime and Uryu were to be given an Asauchi and they trained properly with it, could they also obtaine Shinigami powers in the form of a zanpakutō in addition to their own unique powers?

A675

I think they can.

Q676

In the past, when Urahara was promoted as the captain, Aizen seemed to have a somewhat meaningful answer to Hirako's response. However, since Aizen’s reply seemed a little deeper, could it be that Aizen had Urahara in his sights since before he was even made a Captain? Did Urahara already make a name for himself by that point through some kind of research? Or were they classmates during Academy days?

A676

Aizen had known Urahara since before he started getting involved with Yoruichi.

Q677

Even among all the defeated characters, I feel like Szayelaporro is the one character that has returns the most. Is he one of your favorite characters?

A677

Szayelaporro is a very eccentric man so even for short lived scenes he stirs things up, which is why I end up using him.

Q678

Q: When Hiyori kicked Urahara in the groin back in the TBTP arc, she was left in agony. What did Urahara had hidden under his hakama?

A678

It was an iron loincloth.

Q679

I’m really happy that the scene with kid Shunsui made it in and wasn’t cut!! Thank you so much!! When did you come up with the visuals for it?

A679

It’s not just Shunsui, but as I was drawing their kid versions the story just happened to flow like that. It’s not something I consciously thought about.

Q680

The Monk is said to be the person who gave names to all things, but how are the names of Zanpakutō techniques decided upon? Are the techniques named along with the name of Zanpakutō?

A680

Techniques that make use of Zanpakutō abilities are mainly decided by the Zanpakutō themselves.

Q681

I believe Chad has been living alone for a relatively long time, but how good is he with housework?

A681

Regardless of his skills, Chad likes cleanliness, so he keeps his room real tidy. He doesn’t cook much because he’s always focused on training, but he’s good at it.

Q682

Where do the ingredients that Seireitei residents and Shinigami eat come from (mainly meat, fish, and fruits and vegetables)? I can't really picture it, but are there any fields or ranches in Seireitei? Or are they procuring meat and cultivating fields in the mountains and forests of Rukongai? I feel like the latter is likely to be ravaged by people with spiritual powers or Hollows.

A682

There are Seireitei territories in various parts of Rukongai, where hunting, farming, livestock farming, and fishing are carried out.

Shinigami are also assigned to manage each area and management is passed down from generation to generation.

Q685.

What’s the difference between Shunpo and Sonido? I'm especially curious about Sonido which has the characteristics of slipping through the perception senses.

A685

Shunpo is mainly done through training the physical body, Hirenkyaku is done by training the ability to manipulate Reishi, while Sonido is executed by converting the Reishi within the body into “something that is not Reishi”.

Q688.

Are the names “Kojaku” and “Ginrei Kojaku” passed down through the Ishida family? Or did Uryu come up with them himself?

A688

The names come from documents regarding Japanese Quincies, which are found in the Ishida family.

Q689.

Regarding the Aushwalen that was used in the later part of the story, the Bambies & Bazz-B still continue to use their Schrifts and there’s no evidence of them having lost their powers. Taking into consideration that they’re relatively part of the younger generation quincies, is it safe to say that they survived due to Aushwalen targeting old quincies first and having already taken the necessary amount of power that was needed at the time?

A689

The necessary amount of power is taken from old and weakened Quincies, in that order. Also, Bazz-B and the girls are young and their abilities are also high level, therefore their protection against Aushwalen is naturally high which resulted in them only having their powers “reduced”.

Q692.

Do Ichigo and Renji ever cook?

A692

Renji can cook, although it doesn’t look or taste particularly appealing. Ichigo thinks he can cook better than him, but he sucks at it in reality.

Q694.

When you thought of the name “Hirako Mako” (「平子真子」), was there something that inspired it? I found it unusual to read "Mako" (「真子」) as "Shinji" (「シンジ」), so if there was an original source, please let me know.

A694

Since Hirako’s theme is “upside down” , I chose letters that were almost symmetrical so that they could also be read when written upside down.

Q695.

Is Yūshirō, Yoruichi’s only sibling? I wonder if she has other brothers because her name contains “numbers” and “time of day” (Night & Evening). If others do exist, do their names also include “numbers” and the characters for “Morning” & “Noon” respectively?

A695

Whether there are other siblings or not is a secret. However, children who can potentially become heads of the family receive names containing characters that represent “numbers” and “time”.

[theanimeroom]

NSFW UNDER THE CUT

SINCE WE’RE ON THE TOPIC…

💎 feral!hichigo who waited for exactly the right moment before he made his move.

💎 he’d been watching you through ichigo’s eyes for some time now, taking in all the times you pranced around in that carrot tops line of sight.

💎 he despised ichigo for having you in such close proximity, yet not ruining you the way you were asking to be. he saw the way you always wore scandalous clothing, leaving a little too little to the imagination while walking around the house. it was a disgusting display, but oh how he loved to watch you try so hard.

💎 the longer he waited in the shadows, the more the hollow became convinced that you were doing it more for him than for ichigo. you were so lewd in all your actions; the way you sat down with your legs almost inviting him in, or the feeling of your hand as it caressed his bicep upon greeting him at the door.

💎 even when ichigo had managed to get you underneath him, you always taunted him with those sly whimpers, staring straight through the carrot top and into hichigo’s dangerous eyes. you pleaded for him to take you, begging with everything in you for him to finally give you what you really wanted.

💎 you were the devil incarnate, and that was saying a lot coming from him. he’d seen his share of bad guys in the past, but you were cruel in ways he’d never known possible.

💎 hichigo knew then that you would have to be punished at some point, but knew that you’d never learn your lesson if he left it up to that dumb ichigo. he was too gentle with you, to afraid of you cracking under the pressure, but only hichigo knew that that’s exactly what you needed.

💎 that’s exactly why on the day hichigo knew his counterpart would be busy, letting his mental state fatigue, he took advantage of the situation. ichigo had been running around all day, stopping hollows here and there while still managing his job. he knew today was the day when the soul society had requested his help with a mission, forcing the carrot top to leave you alone for the next few hours while he traveled through the senkaimon. by the time ichigo had gotten back home, his shoulders were stiff and his body was tight with stress and fatigue.

💎 he let him have his fun in the beginning, watching mischievously as ichigo kissed patterns up and down your body, your small mewls and jerks making him wonder what you’d look like when he got his hands on you. ichigo toyed with you the way that he liked, teasing your supple body until you were begging for his cock.

💎 it was only when ichigo let out a tired sigh, pausing his movements as he wiped a line of sweat from his brow line. that hichigo breached the surface.

💎 “out of my way, carrot top. you’re letting down your girl,” he snarled when he felt ichigo resist his advances. the strangled groan ichigo let out led you to ask what was wrong, the momentary distraction of your voice being all the alter ego needed to slip past ichigo’s defenses, chuckling to himself as he listened to the complaints in the back of his head.

💎 you’d only registered the situation when ichigo’s movements paused, a sinister laugh erupting around the room. your eyes widened at the distorted sound, realizing immediately that your boyfriend had been overwhelmed by the hollow within him. you didn’t say a word when hichigo lifted his head, rabid eyes locking with yours as he grabbed both of your cheeks with one hand.

💎 with a squeeze your lips were puckering together, a nearly demonic growl emanating from the back of the hollow’s throat. your hips jerked when two of his fingers plunged into you, curling and prodding the spongey area that made your knees buckle. his place started out absolutely brutal, your throat growing tired rather quickly from the cries of pleasure that coursed through you.

💎 “been waiting so long to finally teach you a lesson,” he chided, moaning when your hips lifted off of the bed, spastically trying get more out of the man above you. you weren’t quite sure what he was talking about, but as long as he kept wrecking you the way he was, he could say whatever he wanted.

💎 feral!hichigo who felt his heart rate increase when you started calling out for the orange-head, a whimper leaving your mouth when he ripped his fingers from your cunt and instead shoved the digits against your tongue. you gagged as he forced his fingers down your throat, the taste of your own essence staining your taste buds. “ichigo’s not here right now.”

💎 feral!hichigo who fucked you like a madman the moment he forced his cock into you. he wrapped his hand around the expanse of your neck, squeezing the sides tightly until your eyes were crossing and you were digging your hands into his wrist, mind so foggy you could barely even form a single word.

💎 feral!hichigo who made sure ichigo was watching the whole thing as well. he’d speak to him occasionally when he was particularly proud of his work, feeing the main man’s blood boiling from within. “see? didn’t i say she’d look much prettier with a hand wrapped around her throat?”

💎 feral!hichigo who didn’t stop thrusting into you until he felt your cunt pulsing around him for the 5th time, your body so exhausted that it could barely even tremble anymore from the pleasure.

💎 feral!hichigo who didn’t feel bad in the slightest when he saw tears running down your cheeks, body still twitching without him even touching you. “did you learn how to fuck her yet?” he asked carrot top, smirking to himself when your eyes slipped shut, your lack of energy leaving hichigo with a sense of a job well done.

💎feral!hichigo who returned to his place in the shadows without a single complaint, now completely content watching as ichigo played with your hair, apologizing profusely for his shadow sided actions.

you mentioned later when you regained your senses that you weren’t mad about the turn of events, although you could barely move your legs once the impact took its toll on your body. you made sure to mention that if he ever was okay with it, you didn’t mind if he let his demonic friend out every once in a while.

don’t plagiarize, it’s not nice <3

©️ theanimeroom

[fangirlingpuggle]

Half asleep dumb Bleach AU where Quincy war goers really bad and they have to pull a time travel fix it but the only 2 strong enough to not die are Ichigo and Aizen.

The 2 ending up in the turn back the pendulum arc and Aizen instantly goes into full xanatos gambit mastermind planner mode... only to realize that is fucking impossible when you are working with Ichigo Kurosaki.

Every time he thinks he has found a way to create a long plan that will result in the Quincy end (And maybe himself as the soul king or all powerful) he turns around and Ichigo has already completely changed the time line AGAIN! Totally fucked up someones tragic backstory and he just takes a deep breath throws all his planning in the bin and has to go back to the drawing board (Since he can't actually murder Ichigo... he's tried)

Ichigo isn't trying to change much he doesn't have any grand plan just kill Yhwach, make sure his friends are safe and don't let Aizen do anything to Aizeny.

He ends up bonding with Gin, because Gin sees how powerful Ichigo is and more importantly how much he pisses off Aizen. He basically becomes Ichigo's shadow and just makes everything 10x more chaotic.

It becomes worse when Byakuya joins in he sees Ichigo shunpo at a speed that puts Yoruchi to shame and pretty much insists he teach him. And thus Ichigo has 2 shadows who mange to fuck up everything Aizen tries to plan.

(They disappear for a few days and Ichigo has somehow become king of Hucheo mundo no ones even sure how, there's also an adjuchas grimmjow following Ichigo around either trying to kill him or maybe court him no one can tell. Aizen takes one look at this pretty much throws months worth of planning in the bin and then goes and then just disappears into the Senkaimon to scream into the void)

Shinji is confused but he knows Aizen's planning something still he's sure of it and hasn't realized the plans have changed. Ichigo just watches the two for a bit and just turns to Aizen like 'So trying to murder and hollowify the guy you have a huge crush on is taking pigtail pulling to the extreme right?' Gin is dying laughing and Aizen is pissed and not happy because he has been doing fine with repressing and ignoring these feelings for centuries and can keep on doing it just fine thank you very much.

Thus begins Ichigo and Gin trying to match make him because that may make Aizen less crazy evil since Ichigo has watched the man stare all pinning and stupid after Shinji and stop staring at the many many maps and plans he have (most of them Ichigo thinks are plans for trying to murder him) and well it's fucking hilarious. Also he's pretty sure Shinji is just as bad since the man can ramble about Aizen for hours... literal hours Ichigo timed him and not all of it was how he's planning something evil...though a lot of it was.

Plus it's embarrassing to Aizen and hilarious.

[bleachbleachbleach]

dear bleachbleachbleach. i recently got a very boring (but very fulfilling!!) job and i can't help but think about your boring bleach larp. every second i am setting up i'm thinking 'man, i wonder who prepares the rooms for all the meetings and extracurricular clubs. does joe shinigami ever have to deal with there being one table short and having to go through last week's schedule to try and track down which meeting room it's been taken to? who is keeping tabs on the amounts of ink and paper used for the caligraphy club?'

i highly recommend it to anyone else. imagining your job in the seireitei is awesome. thank you for the idea, it's been genuinely a lot of fun!!

Awwww yesssssss join us in boring Bleach LARP!!! Literally yesterday I was thinking about how unfortunate it is that Senkaimon probably don't have enough materiality to be genuinely familiar or unique, and are more of a repeating, conceptual, ephemeral construct than something that has an opportunity to be weird and worn-in or just have like, weirdly regionalized features. But THEN I was like, "at least Rukongai got me!!!!!!" Even if Rukongai is also kind of conceptual and repeating, too, it still inhabits just enough of some kind of material uncanny that it definitely has weirdly regionalized travel outposts!!!

--I was thinking about airports. Specifically, I was thinking about "ugh, I love that this airport has Bojangles." But also the Soul Society equivalent, Rukongai travel outposts. Alas my connection was too tight to Boring Bleach LARP my way into imagining the Soul Society equivalent of Bojangles (which is a North Carolina-based chicken and biscuit joint).

--

I feel like the furniture question in the Seireitei is particularly fraught because it's always felt to me that the Gotei lacks clarity around how furniture should be used and how much of it makes sense to have in a given room. I'm sure some of this is lingering confusion around "is this a Western- or an Eastern-style room, anyway" but they are constantly standing around in gigantic rooms with singular tables too small for the space:

Or gigantic tables too big for the space:

There's no in-between!

Who decided what furniture went where, or what furniture to own at all? I would love to meet the Joe Shinigami in charge of facilities management. WHAT A JOB, WHAT A JOB.

[toomanydamnmuses]

@bleachbrainrotbro

Well. This is certainly inconvenient. The senkaimon to take him to the world of the living has taken him...

Well, not where it was supposed to. He can tell from the energy signatures around him that he is certainly within a realm of the living. But given the variety of... beings around him, he is given reason to believe that this is not the one to which he is semi-accustomed. Not to mention the energy within the air itself, almost feeling more akin to what is found in Hueco Mundo or the Soul Society, than the world of the living.

The architecture, too, is different. He supposes it is reminiscent of other regions within the human world that he is used to, something he remembers Rose showing him once or twice in a book. From somewhere called. Rope? Your-Rope? He can't remember what it's called, but it was something like that he thinks.

The script upon many of the signs are unfamilar, too. Thanks to Rose, he can at least read some of it. After much staring, that is. And only the words that haven't been overly decorated or otherwise made illegible from how curly they are. One sign catches his attention, and it takes him a moment to decipher it. 'Elfsong Tavern' sounds promising enough. After all, if he remembers correctly from some of Rose's attempted lessons on the human world, taverns are commonly a place to drink and rest. And, perhaps more importantly in his case, to gather information.

He doubts that this place, wherever it is, would take the little bit of currency that he carries with him. But perhaps there are some pests that might need handling, maybe a troublesome hollow even here. That he could easily take care of in exchange for information at the very least.

With this in mind, he steps into the building, pausing for a moment to take in the occupants. Given how dark it is outside, and therefore how late into the evening it likely is, he isn't terribly surprised at how reasonably empty it is. Certainly, there are a few patrons here and there, a musician half-heartedly strumming away at some stringed instrument in their lap. His gaze passes onto and pauses at a pale man with silver hair don't think of him, it isn't him, it's the right color but the wrong style dressed in very expensive clothing. Aside from the hair, however, what catches his attention are the ears.

He's only seen ears like that on the ressurreccion of the Sexta Espada. While this man has a strange energy around him, it does not feel hollow. So, feeling that the scene is secure enough, Izuru steps forward to the bar beside the man and clears his throat to catch the barkeep's attention.

"Apologies, but I seem to have gotten a bit turned around at some point. I'm... Far from here. Very far. Could you tell me where this is, perhaps?"

[recurring-polynya]

Once was one thing...

...but I feel like this is not just a "I'd have two nickels," situation, I think Renji really is the designated shouter for situations where everyone wants to stand around and do a two-page spread look cool. Is it because he won the All-Gotei Trash Talking Championship, or is this one of those things like tenteikura and opening senkaimon that are just traditional lieutenant duties? He's the only lieutenant present in the first situation. In the second, and in the second, he's the only lieutenant whose...captain is present?

He's also very tall and projects well. Ikkaku is also good at hollerin', but this happens two panels later, so it's unsurprising that he's been banned from spokesperson duties:

[themultiverseheroines]

Closed RP w/@muses-of-the-memory

Its been about a few months since the fight with Yhwach and repairs to the Soul Society has continued. Much of the buildings still are in need of repairs, the casualty count is has finally finished, and some parts of the 13 Court Guard Squads have managed to resume with their duties.

Out at the Senkaimon, Captain Toshiro Hisugaya is seen standing in front of the gate. His arms within the sleeves of his coat as he appears to be waiting. Waiting for someone to appear from the gate. He was informed by the Head Captain that some very important people will be joining them soon, so he was asked to go greet them.

That and Toshiro was the only captain available, since most of the other captains were busy with other matters.

Toshiro sighed softly as he looks up at the gate, waiting for these so-called special guests to show up. "I wonder how long do I have to wait till they arrive? I know I was told to get here early just in case they arrive early, but its been over and hour and they're still not here yet."

@muses-of-the-memory

[my-my-my]

KINKTOBER DAY 12 - Fucking Machine/Sex Toys: Akon x Female Reader

Summary: A busted senkaimon gate has seen an influx of curious humans entering Sereitei, and unfortunately, Squad 12 can't close it remotely. Akon decides to inspect the gate and fix it for himself, but finds that the humans have other ideas on what is on the "other side" of the mysterious gate.

TW: MDNI! Use of bakudo as sex toys, actual use of sex toys, oral sex (both m and f receiving). Reader believes in aliens.

Word count: 1915

Read on AO3 here.

“Lieutenant Akon, there are peculiar readings coming from the eastern side of Karakura Town.” Hiyosu reported. Akon, who was busy with the readings from another region, looked at Hiyosu and narrowed his eyes.

“What do you mean by, ‘peculiar’?” He asked Hiyosu. Nothing the Twelfth Division did was particularly “normal,” so for it to be flagged as “peculiar” by Hiyosu, must have been something truly strange.

“There have been humans wandering around the senkaimon gate there.” Hiyosu scratched his head, his bulging eyes reading the results properly. “I’m not sure they know what it is though, but I can’t close the gate remotely from the lab.”

Akon sighed and rubbed his temple. If Hiyosu couldn’t close the gate from the lab, there was a bigger problem worth investigating, and the last thing Soul Society needed were curious humans roaming about, again.

“I’ll deal with it then.” Akon said, patting Hiyosu on the back, “if Captain Mayuri needs me, just send me a message.” He grumbled. As he walked out of the Squad 12 barracks, Akon flash stepped towards the malfunctioning gate in Sereitei.

Out of habit, Akon pulled out his pack of cigarettes and lit one up, exhaling as he inspected the malfunctioning gate. His cigarette hung from his mouth as he reached out and tore parts of the gate apart, yet the gate did not disappear.

“Whoa!” A head appeared through the gate, Akon froze and stared at you, his cigarette falling to the ground. “Aliens do exist!”

“Alien?” Akon sighed, “do I look like an alien?” Akon glared, staring at the head coming through the gate.

“You speak Japanese?!?” You exclaimed, as more of your body came through the gate.

Akon closed his eyes, his headache coming back in full force. He pinched his nose and stomped on his cigarette.

“I didn’t know aliens smoked?” You gasped, seeing the stub and smelling the faint smoke from him. “Did you pick that up from your visit to Earth?” You asked, your eyes roaming over the being in front of you.

The being looked… human, more or less, with black hair, sharp eyes, no eyebrows though, instead three protruding horns from their forehead. They seemed a bit pale, but very human-like.

“I’m not—wait you can see me?” Akon asked, his eyes narrowing as he looked at you.

“I’m not supposed to see you?” You gasped, covering your mouth in shock. “There were rumours that the abandoned inn became a UFO hotspot.” You spoke.

Akon, ever the scientist, was curious about the rumours, “care to tell me more about these rumours?” He asked, politely.

“Oh sure! Some friends of mine saw a weird looking alien, kind of round, green skin and kind of waddled around.”

Hiyosu…

“Is that so?” Akon asked, “anything else?”

“No… that’s it.” You mumbled, completely out of the gate now. You took a look around your surroundings and noticed that it was an abandoned home. “Am I in your spaceship? I wanted to see an alien for myself.”

Akon’s lips twitched, trying not to laugh. “Yes, this is my spaceship.”

“No way!” You exclaimed, taking a better look, “but it’s so dusty though? Or are you forcing me to see this.” You glared and pouted at Akon. Much to his dismay, he thought you looked cute.

“I don’t think the human mind can comprehend my race’s superior technology.” Akon said, sarcastically.

You walked around the abandoned home, and quickly sprinted to the door, to which you found locked.

“If you opened that, you’d fall into space and die.” Akon said with a deadpan expression, “we don’t want that, do we?”

You yelped and jumped away from the door, “nope, definitely don’t want that!”

Akon pulled another cigarette from his pocket and lit it up, thinking about what to do and how Hiyosu was going to get an earful later. He heard you rambling about something but didn’t pay attention.

“Hey – um, are you listening…?”

“You can call me Akon.” He replied dryly, exhaling the smoke away from you. Akon looked at you again, narrowing his eyes as you suddenly appeared shy for some reason.

“Oh, ok!” You stammered, avoiding his gaze, “Well Akon, I asked if you were going to probe me.”

Probing?

Oh right, living beings think aliens probe humans. Akon thought to himself.

Akon let out another drag from his cigarette and thought about his options.

A distraction might be nice.

“Do you want to be probed?” He asked, taking another puff.

“You’re asking me?!” You exclaimed, your eyes wide at the question.

“If you don’t, then it’s fine. Someone else will come by and we can probe them instead.” Akon said in a matter-of-fact tone. “We still don’t know how far that rumour of yours spread.” Akon chuckled, looking at you.

You swallowed nervously, but looked at him directly, “go ahead.” As you extended your arms out together, as if he would shackle you immediately.

Akon laughed, “put your hands away and relax.” He said, and with a snap of his fingers, you were pushed into some sort of chair, but your legs were spread wide open. “What were you hoping for when you asked me to probe you?” Akon asked, as he stood between your legs.

“I…” you stuttered, unsure of how to answer.

“Something violent? Like taking out your organs.” You yelped and tried to close your legs, but something was keeping them apart, something you couldn’t see.

“Or something that’ll make you feel good?”

Panic crept in your voice, “feel good! Definitely that one, yes!” You shrieked, nodding your head.

Akon laughed, “good. I wasn’t expecting you to say violence.” He gave you a gentle smile, putting you slightly at ease.

“What are you going to do to me then… Akon?”

Akon didn’t answer immediately. He wondered if it was worth explaining any of this, but you seemed curious, and he wasn’t one to deny someone seeking to know more.

“I have some devices that haven’t been tested yet. You’ll be my tester.” Akon gave you a reassuring smile as he pat the top of your head. “But first, you need to be prepped for it.”

“Prepped? I can’t get out of here though.” You whined, you could lift your arms or your legs, invisible shackles holding them down to the chair. It almost felt like… magic?

“Don’t worry about that.” Akon calmly said, “I’ll help you with  that.” And with a snap of his fingers, your clothes were gone, as you sat naked in front of the mysterious being.

Cold air hit your body and you shuddered at the sensation, until you felt something warm and… wet licking your stomach and traveling its way up to your breasts. You couldn’t see what it was, but there was a faint, almost golden glow.

And it felt amazing. You arched your back and moaned loudly as the sensations continued at your breasts, but another one was added to your pussy. Akon stood there, smoking as he watched you writhed in the chair, mentally noting a new use for the modified bakudo spell he cast.

You saw Akon pull something out of his pocket, it looked so small, almost like a beeper, with an assortment of buttons of different colours on it. He pressed one and a poof of smoke appeared.

You gulped at what was in his hand, it was a very thick, large dildo.

“That won’t fit inside me!” You shrieked, then moaned as the bakudo binding swiped your folds again, while a segment slipped inside your dripping hole, slightly filling you.

Akon gave you a smirk, “it’ll fit” watching you gulp, as he positioned the bulbous head near your wet hole. “Your pussy looks greedy for it.”

He gently pushed the toy inside you, letting you adjust to its girth. Akon began to pump it slowly from you, as he watched you groan from the feeling of it. Then he stepped away, the dildo securely inside you. He pushed another button and you let out another loud moan as the toy began to pump itself, whirring away as the bakudo continued to lick at your clit and play with your nipples.

You licked your lips and moaned, never having felt such pleasure before. You didn’t realize the seat unfurled itself until you felt a hand in your hair. Akon stood above you, with a very prominent erection poking through his clothes.

“Another test for you.” Akon chuckled, his cock inches away from your lips. You licked your lips again and let Akon push his shaft inside your mouth, as you moaned around him. Akon set the pace as he held on to your head and fucked your mouth. You were too lost in pleasure to care as the squelches of your pussy and the toy echoed loudly in the room.

Akon’s pace was steady, but gentle. He would gently pet your hair, murmuring how good your mouth was. You pulled your mouth away and screamed as the toy continued pushing itself out of you as you squirted on the chair. Akon watched in amusement and began to fist his erection, before spraying your face with his cum.

“I think that’s enough tests.” He said calmly, as he put himself away. Akon pushed a pill into your mouth, forcing you to swallow, as he casted a kido spell to clean you up. You were trying to catch your breath in the chair and didn’t even notice your clothes were back on your body. You also, surprisingly after what you had gone through, didn’t feel weak.

But before you knew it, you were near the bizarre hole that led you to Akon in the first place.

“Did you enjoy being probed?” Akon laughed, his arms crossed in front of him.

You huffed and were silent, but let out a quiet “yes.”

“Well then, my job is done.” Akon gave you a smile, and another pat on your head. He held some bizarre toy in front of him, with a toy duck head on the top of it. “You’re not going to remember any of this, sorry about that.” Akon apologized, a wry smile on his face as he pushed the duck head down. A bright flash erupted and you found yourself in the abandoned inn.

“What the hell?!” You yell. You pulled out your phone and the time didn’t change from once you entered the inn to now. You remembered seeing a stray dog run into the inn, and wanted to find it and bring it to safety, but there was no dog around!

“How strange” you murmured, leaving the inn. You called a taxi to get home, looking at the inn with confusion.

“Are you alright ma’am? Strange place to pick you up at.” The driver said through the rear view mirror.

“Oh, I’m alright. I thought I saw a dog run in there and wanted to find it. But I didn’t find it at all.”

“Well I heard the inn is an alien hotspot now.”

“Alien hotspot? You believe in aliens?” You scoffed. “I just saw a dog and went after it. I thought it was hurt or something.”

“I see…” the taxi driver said, as he drove you home in silence.

As you entered your home, you felt something strange in your pocket, a mahjong tile? Where did you get this?

But you had enough strangeness for one day, and decided to sleep, making note to visit the local mahjong parlour for questions.

I always hc'd that Akon has created a sex toy or two haha, he seems like the kind of guy to want to have his partner test it out for him!

The title comes from the Dandadan OST "Paranormal Funk" by Kensuke Ushio, and Dandadan was a loose inspiration for this chapter as well!

Thanks for reading! :) Next up will be Uryuu.

[akaluan]

Building the Senkaimon

During the week that Urahara Kisuke takes to build the Senkaimon to transport the teens to Seireitei, Kaito ends up spending his nights in the training basement while the man works.

[rays-of-fire-and-ice]

Returnal: Summer

Two Weeks of Hitsuhina 2024: Day 5 - Go with the Clouds / Hobbies

Rating: K/General

Setting: between the ten-year time-skip and No Breath from Hell oneshot.

Synopsis: While visiting a town in the World of the Living with Toshiro, Momo begins to have a strange feeling she’s been there before.

AN: this has been a stop-start fic since March of this year. It first came to me when I happened to be listening to World #07 Blues from the DiamondDust Rebellion OST (YT | Spotify) and looked at the clouds towering high in the sky on the horizon (in scientific terms, the formation is referred to as a cumulus congestus cloud… yes I looked it up in case anyone was curious XD). Since then, I was struggling to figure out what this fic was going to be about, because it felt like there was more to it than Momo and Toshiro have a day off int he World of the Living.

It didn’t really crystalise until I was thinking on the theme 'go with the clouds' and I figured out why Momo was feeling the way she was about the town.

A few notes before we begins:

In terms of what they’re wearing in this fic, imagine whatever you want, but I saw Toshiro in the Black Hole Disco attire (not with the headphones and wearing a pair of three quarter pants instead, but yes, he’s wearing the bucket hat), and Momo is in the outfit on the left here and her hair done up in a side ponytail

A shoutengai is a type of shopping district in Japan. It can be considered a market of sorts, where you can buy the usual things you’d find at marketplaces like groceries, meals and snacks, cosmetics, clothes, housewares and more. They vary in size from town to town, but regardless they can also host big social events like festivals. Most of my research for this came talking about them with a friend who’s been to Japan and from quick google searches. If I got anything inaccurate, please let me know so I can fix it.

The rats Hitsugaya mentions are the Ryukyu long-tailed giant rat. It’s a rodent native to Japan, specifically the Ryukyu Islands and it has long hairs that look like spikes.

The cup mentioned in this fic is here.

Momo is acting out of character at certain points, and is harsh at one point, This is deliberate, and I hope it makes sense why this is the case as you read along.

If I had to recommend any music to listen to, anything from the Clannad anime soundtrack will work.

I hope you all enjoy this one!

__________________________________

The sun bears down on the back of Hitsugaya’s neck. He tilts the brim of his hat back to shade it, and despite the heat, he’s not experiencing the usual sluggishness that comes with the summer weather.

Regardless, the action gets Hinamori's attention. “Are you all right?”

“I’m fine,” he assures.

“It’s not far,” she encourages, gesturing to the buildings ahead of them on the horizon. “I wonder why the senkaimon dropped us off here? I thought it would be near one of the shrines.”

He shrugs. “It’s probably an old pathway. There might have been a shrine here once but it’s been lost to time. We’ll have to make a note to Twelfth Division when we get back”

She only nods, then continues towards the town. He doesn’t immediately follow.

The senkaimon had taken them to the outskirts, and he might have complained if not for the view and scenery it offers them. Aside from the sidewalks bordering either ride of the road, the powerlines coming down the hill and going into the town, there’s no other human-made structures out here. They’re on a flat plane in a valley, with flowers and tall grass on either side of the road. Bordering the area in far distance are hills and mountains, and towering high above them are clouds that slowly move across the sky.

Save for the few cars that have passed them, their shoes scraping along the footpath, and the swaying grass, it’s quiet. There’s a peacefulness here that is rare in most places he’s been to in the World of the Living.

He looks back to Hinamori, watching the ends of her skirt flutter in the wind and her cloth bag jostle around her shoulder. Out of everything, however, it the purposefulness in her strides that catches his attention the most.

“Why here?” he’d asked when she’d shown him pictures of the town on her denreishinki.

She’d given a small shrug, but her gaze never left the images. “I just thought it looks like a nice town to visit. I didn’t want to go somewhere too cold or hot, and I didn’t feel like going to a city. It's built up, but it also has a lot of nature. Maybe we could go for a walk there or do some shopping?"

There was something about her in that moment. She wasn’t being dishonest, but she hadn’t told him the whole truth, maybe even didn’t realise there was more to her choice than she knew. As if an unconscious force made her pick this place for their visit.

He brushes the thought aside for now, catching up to her and taking in the serenity around them.

_________________________________

It’s that feeling again. Something clinging to the edge of her heart, and fluttering at the back of her mind, hazy and out of reach.

Hinamori can’t decide if she should be perplexed by it or find it uncomfortable. It had started when she’d been searching for places she and Hitsugaya could visit for their day trip. More specifically, when this town showed up more than once as a recommended day trip destination.

The feeling intensifies now that they walk down the town’s main street. She tries to focus on her surroundings, taking in the architecture of the buildings around her. They’re mostly modern, but occasionally there’s a building that’s out of place, as if transported from another time. They’re well maintained, with obvious repaired having been made to their roofs or walls, but still maintaining their traditional look. They remind her of the buildings in the Junrinan’s business district.

There aren’t a lot of people around to considering it 'bustling', but there's enoguh to make her think the town isn't as small as one might assume based on the maps and pictures she'd seen. There’s a few residents that even have their pets with them, either carrying them or keeping them on leash.

“Look at that dog, Shiro-chan!” Hinamori quietly gushes when she spots a small, white Japanese Spitz with it’s owner across the street. “It’s so fluffy!”

Hitsugaya only snorts and watches the dog trot down the footpath.

“…You know, it kind of looks liked you.”

He lets out a strangled sound which briefly catches the attention of a few around them. “How?!”

“Well, it’s fur looks like your hair, it’s got a very determined stride, and…” She raises a hand to her lips, stifling a giggle and covering the teasing smile curling her lips.

He glares at her, even as blush faintly colors his cheeks. “We didn’t come here for you to compare me to a dog.”

“No, I suppose we didn’t.” She fishes out her denreishinki from her pocket, bringing up the map of the main and connecting streets. “Come on, lets go find the shoutengai.”

 There are a few in this town, but the one that’d been recommend on a several Human websites she’d browsed through was the biggest of them all. It’s home to the usual types of shops, like clothing and homeware stores, but also obscure places like a tiny café that has hedgehog-themed food and beverages, a bookstore selling rare novels and collectables, and a confectionery shop with candies in all sorts of shapes and sizes and flavors.

It's several minutes later when they come across it. It’s hard to miss with the crowd gathered within and the different colored lanterns swaying beneath the shoutengai sign.

Hinamori stops before they cross the street to it’s entrance. “You sure about this?”

“Why wouldn’t I be?”

“I know you’re not a fan crowds, so…”

He shrugs. “It's not like we're staying here the whole time."

She smiles in gratitude. “Okay.” Even so, she can’t help but offer, “After this, we can go wherever you want.”

“There's that walking trail you mentioned before, I guess.” Before she can agree to it, he walks past her. “Come on.”

Crossing the street, they manoeuvre their way through the crowds in front until they’re inside. When they enter, Hinamori has to stop to take it all in.

Above them is a semi-circular glass roof, and hanging from it and the beams dotted every several meters are lanterns. Beneath them are smaller signs for all the store and stall within the alleyway. Despite the crowds packing the district, there’s an airy feel to the place. Something lively and cheerful. She grins, finally knowing she made the right decision to come here.

She grabs Hitsugaya’s wrist, and while he lets out a surprised grunt, she points to the nearby candy store, “I saw that one in the blogs! Let’s go check it out.”

They didn’t stay in the store long, with Hinamori buying several bags of sweets for Women’s Association members – Nanao had been keen for everyone to get ideas for their next event, maybe making and selling sweets might inspire them, Hinamori reasoned to herself – and for her captain – he likely misses treats from the World of the Living, she further reasoned.

Hitsugaya stays close as they wonder from store to store. A part of her wishes he’d peel off and go look at something himself, but he’s never been much of a shopper.

From there, she peruses all the store fronts, ducking in when something catches her eye. When she comes upon the hedgehog-themed café, it takes everything in her – and Hitsugaya's small lecture about saving funds – to not buy several of the hedgehog-shaped foods or pay to pet one of the hedgehogs there.

“I’m surprised,” he mutters when they leave.

She lets out a nervous laugh. “At least I only got one thing.” Said thing is packet of two cookies, stowed away with the other candies.

“Not that.” He shakes his head. “Since when have you liked those sorts of creatures? You used to run from the spiny rats in the Junrinan.”

“That was different! Besides…I was younger then, I didn’t know they were harmless.” She turns back to the front windows of the café, watching the Humans hold and pet the tiny creatures. “Besides, those little guys wouldn’t hurt anyone.”

“They literally have spikes!”

“Sounds like you are the one scared of them, Shiro-chan.”

“I am not!”

She laughs at his outrage. “You know, I think they remind me of you too.”

With a loud grumble, he stalks ahead of her. “I’m going to the bookstore.”

"You mean the one we were in before?"

"No, the other one."

That makes her stop. “There was a bookstore?”

He spins on his heel, and when he notices her surprise, his embarrassment turns to teasing. “How did you miss it?”

“You should’ve pointed it out to me!”

He shrugs. “Well, I’m going there. You’ll have to find it yourself.”

She blinks at his audacity, then scrambles to catch up to him. “Hey, wait up!”

She avoids bumping into Humans while trying not to lose sight of him. When a couple comes in front, she has to skid to a stop.

“Ah, sorry!” she quickly apologises, before going around them. Hitsugaya is gone. She sighs wearily. Well, at least he decided to go somewhere on his own.

Deciding to join him later, Hinamori wonders from shop to shop. She comes to another homemade housewares store a few minutes later, browsing the shelves at the front packed with cutlery and ceramics, varying in shapes and designs. She thought to buy a new cup for herself, something different from what she typically found in the Soul Society. When her eyes fall on a black and blue cup, another idea comes to mind.

It’s not his birthday yet, she thinks, and I don’t really have an occasion to give this to him anytime soon. Still…

She picks the cup up, turning it around in her hands. It’s mostly black, but there’s a shiny sliver of the brown clay at the base and blue colors the inside and covers the rim, as if water were spilling out over the lip. It’s the perfect size for tea and light in weight despite the sturdy construction.

The price tag makes her purse her lips, but after a beat, she walks into the store and straight to the cashier before she changes her mind.

Maybe I can wait until his birthday? she wonders after coming out of the store, bag now a bit heavier with the boxed up purchase. It’s only five months away, it’s not too long of a wait, right? It’ll save me having too…

A painting displayed on an easel catches her eye. It makes her come to a complete stop in the middle of the arcade, with Humans wondering around her none the wiser to the shock that thrums through her. She can’t understand this reaction, and that feeling that’d been lingering rushes forward like a tidal wave crashing up against the walls of her mind.

With slow steps, she treads to the painting. She barely registers that it’s a part of a small stall belonging to an artist, with several other paintings on display. She only sees the landscape rendered in muted acrylic paints. There’s a forest, with trees to thin but so tall they obscure the clouded sky. At the base of the trunks is a rocky bank, with stones colored brown and grey, and a small ring of dirt separated it from the green grass and flora of flowers and shrubs. The lake lapping at the bank is a pale blue-grey.

However, she’s seen that lake with her own eyes so many times, knows that it's actually a brighter, more vibrant blue. But how can she?

 _________________________________

Hitsugaya walks out of the bookstore, a parcel in one hand and with his brow furrowed deeply. He’d expected Hinamori to follow him; she never misses the chance to visit a bookstore whenever they go out. Then again, she rarely gets to visit the World of the Living and she always gets caught up in the sights and sounds she’s never experienced before.

Hitsugaya will never admit he likes seeing her like this. This peace the Seireitei has been experiencing for the past eleven years allows her to be happy again without worry or restraint. Yes there had been the few strange moments before and during this trip, but seeing her in the stores gleefully browsing and picking up things to decide if she should buy them or not, even watching her debate whether or not she wanted to pet a hedgehog, it’s a balm for the part of him still unable to let go of what happened over ten years ago.

He scans the district, first to the left towards the exit, then to the right. He puts his hat back on and begins walking the way he’d come before leaving her. Worst case scenario, he can call her denreishinki and meet up at the strange café again. Proving to himself that she can be happy, that he can be happy, as times goes on.

He glances down at the parcel. It has string wrapped around it and tied off in a bow with a tag dangling from one of the ends.

She’s going to want to know about it. It’s rare for him to buy anything on any shopping venture he goes on. I could give it to her now and make the apology. He glances at the Humans around him. No, not here. When we go on the walk.

Through the crowds, Hinamori's profile into view. He makes his way to her, but the closer he approaches, the clearer her expression becomes and the quicker his steps get. She clutches the straps of her bag tightly, and her widened eyes stare at a painting. The furrow in her brow, something caught between distress and confusion, makes him surge forward, bumping into Humans without care.

Someone approaches her, however, knocking her out of this state. He forces himself to a stop, well within her view. Still, she focuses on the stranger as she raises her hand in reassurance and offers a wobbly smile. The Human – the artist of the painting, Hitsugaya assumes – bows her head, and again, Hinamori waves her hand and says something. They speak for a moment, and at one point Hinamori points a trembling hand at the painting.

He finally catches her eyes when he takes slower steps towards her. Hinamori visibly relaxes when their gazes meet.

“Ah, here’s my friend now. I better get going!” She bows to the artist. “Sorry again, I didn’t mean to cause a scene.”

“Oh, no, you didn’t! I was worried my painting had affected you somehow.”

“No, really, it was fine. Thank you for telling me about it.” Then, a bit too quickly, she leaves.

“What was that all –?” She walks past without so much as glancing at him. It only alarms him more. He catches up to her in a few steps and grabs her wrist, forcing her to stop. “Hinamori?”

She doesn’t look at him, staring ahead at the exit. After a shaky breath, she lowers her head, her bangs falling over her temples. “Can we leave? I need to get some air.”

He loosens his grip. “Yeah, sure.”

They make their way out, ending up on a quieter street. He lets her lead the way, taking a short walk through a park. He thinks to speak, to ask about what happened back there, but he waits, knowing she’ll bring up in her own time.

By the time they get to the other side of the park, where a road curves down a hill lined with building on their side and giving them a view of a forest sprawled out below. She opens her mouth, but closes it and presses her lips into a thin line.

“Looked like you were affected by that painting,” he offers.

Again she hesitates, but after a shake of her head, she says, “Yeah. It sounds crazy, but I’ve made a drawing of the place in that painting.”

His brow furrows. “Huh?"

“The thing is…I don’t know where that place is.”

“What?”

They’d been walking down the incline, and she brings them to a stop. “Remember when we were in the Junrinan I started drawing pictures of my past?”

He nods.

“I'm certain one of those drawings was of that place. By the time I was drawing it, I’d started to forget where it was and why I remembered it.”

“You're saying the place in that painting is from when you were a Human?"

"I think so..." She lets out a soft, choked sound. "But it might not be. Maybe it looks a lot like one of the places I drew, but it's not it."

Does this explain her strange behavior at certain points? Did something about this town resonate with long forgotten memories for her? Could this town even be...?

He’s out of his depth with this one. What can he say or do to make this better? “It’s not unheard of for a Shinigami to remember places from their past.”

Hinamori blinks. “Huh?”

“When I was a seated officer,” Hitsugaya continues. “I remember rumours among the officers too, about Shinigami acting strange when they were assigned to certain places, and as a result they needed to be transferred. I never paid it much mind, until one of my subordinates came back from a posting requesting to be transferred. He recognised certain buildings in a city he thought he’d never been too. He couldn’t understand it, and tried so hard to explain it to Matsumoto and I when he returned.” He tries to make his shrug casual, but it's too stiff. "That might be happening to you now."

“I guess. It was considered strange I remembered my past life for as long as you did when I arrived the Soul Society.” She sighs. “Sorry, our trip wasn’t supposed to be like this.”

“It’s fine, you couldn’t have known.” He steps closer to her. “Do you want to head back to the Soul Society?”

He expects her to either nod or say something to the effect of, ‘Not yet. I still need to make this a trip worth going on.’ He doesn’t expect the pursing of her lips or the balling of her hand into a tight fist around the straps of her bag.

“The thing is,” she says, “I asked that artist where that place was, and she said it’s here.”

The air around them changes, becoming thicker. It's all the confirmation he needs.

When a car rushes past, it jolts him to speak. “And you want to go looking for this place?”

She becomes rueful. “Yeah, I do.”

His eyes narrow slightly. “Are you sure that’s wise? Considering how you reacted before, it might not be a good idea.”

She vehemently shakes her head. “I need to find it! I don’t know how I know it, but if I go there, I’m certain I’ll understand.”

“But it’s from before your life in the Soul Society. What do you hope to gain from it?”

There’s a flicker in her gaze. “I don’t expect you to understand, and if you want to head back to the Seireitei, you can.” She turns and begins walking away. “She told me where I can find it, and I’m going there.”

He’s certain she meant no ill intention or malice behind her words, but he can’t help the pang that runs through his chest. He’s left speechless while watching her go. What’s gotten into her?

“As if I’m leaving,” he grumbles, rushing after her.

She doesn’t look back at him, her gaze searching for something around the town. They walk in tense silence until Hinamori points out a street sign for a shrine that's on the right. "She said to go left of this sign into the forest."

He doesn't like the grim determination in her eyes as they cross the road and walk between the tall trees. There's a dirt path winding around, leading from the flat they stand on down a gentle incline. "Then what?" he asks.

"Follow the path. At some point there's an old broken statue with white and purple flowers at the base."

She presses on, those purposeful strides back again. His hand balls into a fist at his side. "Oi."

She stops but only half turns back to him.

He sighs and folds his arms. "If we don't find anything in twenty minutes, I'm strongly advising we turn back."

She narrows her gaze at the ground.

"Hinamori."

She gives a curt nod. "Fine."

They continue on, walking in silence once more. He doesn't like this, and yet, he can see something softening in her. Is doubt creeping in? He finds he likes that even less.

But what would she want to get out of returning to something she can't remember? That causes her to act like this? He can't think of a similar experience, and even if he could, it's likely he still couldn't fully relate to what she's thinking and feeling right now.

He's certain they're comign up to the twenty minute mark. He pauses on the path to check his denreishinki, but something bothers him in his periphery. To his right, in the far distance, past the tree and shrubbery, there's something grey.

“Hey,” he says, tapping her shoulder, then pointing it out.

When they get closer, Hitsugaya still can’t make out what it is. It’s what was described to Hinamori, but it could be the base of a lantern or a statue, maybe even the broken remains of a pillar. Nothing in the area gives him any clues. As the painter had said, however, at it's base are white and purple flowers either swaying or trying to cling and snake their way by the stone surface.

He’s about to speak, but stops at Hinamori’s intense gaze. It’s like the one had with the painting, as if she were caught somewhere else.

“Hinamori?” When she doesn’t respond, he touches her shoulder. “Oi, you’re spacing out again.”

She jolts with a hitch of breath. “I…” Her head tilts up. “Do you hear that?”

Now that she mentioned it, there’s a sound, one that isn’t like the birds chirping or the rustling of leaves. “Sounds like water.” Lapping water, to be exact. “We must be getting close.”

She nods, but stops. She looks down, finds something, and her gaze scans further down the hill. He frowns, trying to see what she does. It’s several heartbeats later when he notices the path hidden amongst the grass and foliage. It hadn’t been trodden on in quite some time, maybe even decades.

He startles when she sudden runs away, sandaled feet scrapping on the path. He nearly drops his parcel when leaps into action and sprints after her.

_________________________________

She’s gone into a state between shock and something heartfelt. She can feel tears burning in the corners of her eyes, but she can’t understand why. Shrubs and grass scratch at her legs and skirt, but none of it stops her. She’s utterly compelled to keep running, following something she doesn’t understand. The feeling from before has gotten worse, clawing at her heart.

The sound of water, the stone ruin they’d come upon, it fired something old within her, like a muscle memory she hadn't used in a long time.

Through the trees, a lake glitters ahead, and it only makes her run faster. She hears Toshiro call out behind her, sounding alarmed and confused.

The trees and foliage thin out the closer she gets, until all she can see and hear is the waves lapping on the shore. The stony bank rushes up to greet her, and she comes a skidding, abrupt stop before she falls into the water.

“What’s gotten into you?!” Hitsugaya exclaims from behind her. “You can’t just run off like that!”

She ignores him, is too caught up in the sights and smells. The tree line, the rocky bank, and beyond them are the valley’s mountains. The lake is shaped like a tear drop, wide up one end and narrow down the other, likely leading to a river or some larger body of water. There’s a small pier on the wider end, and judging from the bleached patches of wood, it hasn’t been maintained. She looks beyond it, tracing along the tree line. There are pockets where there’s no flora, as if something had once been there but has since crumbled away, left to age and vanish with time.

Something had been there, something she knew.

She lets out shuddering breaths, inhaling in the fresh, floral air. The smell of several flowers, some dangling from the trees, others from the shrubs that are dotted within the forest. It’s the smell of a distant time.

“I know this place,” she says, breathless. “I’ve been…” She shakes her head, dislodging a tear from the corner of her eye. “But that’s impossible. I-I’ve never been here.”

Hitsugaya’s shoes crunch in the pebbled bank as he comes to her side. He watches her for a moment longer, a deep furrow in his brow, then looks around the area. “What makes you so sure?”

“I-I’ve never heard this town,” she insists. “I’ve never even had to come to this part of the World of the Living for missions! Yet, I know it. I drew it! I…” She sobs without tears. “I’m so confused.”

She’d hoped coming here would explain why she felt these strange emotions, why she had drawn a picture of this lake and forest. She doesn’t understand the ache in her heart or the threat of tears. Her head is light, bordering on spinning.

The gentle but firm grip around her forearm bring her back to her sense. She meets her friend’s concerned gaze. She’s mostly found him to be a calming presence, and looking his eyes and focusing on her breath, it’s no different now. "Shiro-chan..."

He doesn't react to nickname. She might've laughed if not for the situation.

She thinks back on what he’d said before about subordinate who also experienced the same emotions as her. It occurs to her again that Hitsugaya can’t fully understand what’s happening to her. His life has always been in the Soul Society. He had no Human life to forget.

Yet here he is, trying to understand, and how had she reacted? She bows her head and rests a hand on top of his. “I’m sorry. I said some harsh words to you before.”

“Forget about it.”

“No, it wasn’t right. I don’t know what possessed me to come here. I don’t know why I thought I’d know what this place is if I came here. If anything, it’s just made me more confused.” She shakes her head. “I took out my frustration on you, I shouldn’t have. And I shouldn’t have come here, either. I really am sorry."

Hitsugaya breaks his gaze away, staring off to the side. For a time, there’s just the lapping of water, the distant calls and chirping of birds, and a gentle breeze that sways the branches of the trees and flora.

“You filled our sketchbook with so many drawings of places and people I didn’t know.” The furrow in his brow deepens. "I felt...I wish I could..." he clenches his jaw, clearly frustrated he can't bring himself to fully express how he felt about it. Still, the fact he's trying warms her heart.

“I wouldn’t know anything from those drawings anymore.” She shakes her head. “I wish I knew more. I wish I knew why know this place. I don’t know what to do, Hitsugaya-kun.”

“Are you certain about that?”

Is she? On one hand, coming here had only left her with more questions and confusing emotions. On the other, it doesn’t feel right to leave yet, as if something keeps her tethered here.

“What would you do?” As soon as she asks the question, she wants to take it back. He isn’t like most Souls. He has no earthly connection of any kind; no ancestors or memories to forget from another world. For him, there is the older woman he calls ‘Baa-chan’. She has no bloodties to him, but she is family to him nevertheless.

She can tell he's weighing whether they should leave or stay. She lifts her hands off his and slips out of his grip. “Let’s just head back.”

He sighs. “It’s not what you want though, is it?”

She presses her lips together. “What good will staying here do?”

“You tell me.”

She can’t help but chuckle, and the small twitch in the corner of his lip only makes her smile involuntarily. “You’re not being fair right now.”

“I think I’m being very fair. This is your decision, Hinamori. You’ve clearly been to this place before in your past and returning to it is making you existential. What say do I have in that?”

"But you do! I feel like I'm dragging you into this."

"I'm not a child anymore, I chose to come here."

He’s right really, but she still expected him to try and convince her to leave. He can worry too much, after all. But then again, the eleven yearlong peace has also mellowed him out a little. What moves her more is that he’s willing to stay and see whichever choice she makes through to the end. He’s always been like that, but it never ceases to amaze her how kind and loyal he can be.

She looks to the pier. “Maybe we could walk over there? I don’t really know why, but…”

“All right.”

Before she sets for the pier, she gestures to the parcel he holds. “Do you want to put that in my bag? You shouldn’t have to carry that the whole time.”

She nearly frowns at his hesitation. Before she can ask, he leans towards her bag. “Sure.”

She opens it for him and he drops the parcel in. “I’ll give it back to you when we get return to the town.” It’s only then it occurs to her he’d actually bought something. She grins as she starts up the bank and he follows. “What is it, by the way?”

“A book.”

“Oh? Are you getting back into reading?”

“Something like that.”

She pouts at his vagueness. “Aw, come on, you can tell me.”

“I will later. In the meantime, lets get to the pier.”

She decides to let it go. It had been a small diversion from the tumult of emotions going through her. She finds, however, walking along the bank with only their food steps and the sounds of nature is somewhat calming. If it weren’t for how she is feelings, she could take in just how beautiful the area is. She had tried to draw it from memory, but if only she could sketch it now.

Does she want a memento of this place? That begs the question: what happens when she leaves? Will she long for this place for the rest of her days? The thought of that makes her clutch a hand to her chest. She’s dealt with far worse, but knowing this place could haunt her for decades to comes fill her with a dreadful anxiety.

“Hinamori?”

She shakes her head. “No, I’m fine.”

She senses he wants to ask more, but he says nothing. Again, she’s reminded of his kindness. She presses her lips together hard to ignore the burn of tears tingling at the backs of her eyes. She’ll have to make it up to him somehow. None of this was right, not when today was about having fun and relaxing together.

As they near the pier, her heart flutters anew. “Do you think it’s safe to walk on?”

“Only one way to find out.”

She raises a brow at him.

Hitsugaya shrugs. “It doesn’t look that old. Besides, the lake seems shallow, you'll barely get wet.”

Is he trying to lift her spirits again? It doesn’t quite work this time, but she still indulges him with a small smile.

They comes to a stop where the ground transaction between dirt and wooden planks. Hinamori twists slowly in all directions. Behind them is one of the patches without trees. To the untrained eye, there’s nothing to see here, but she notices the strange bumps in the dirt and the odd what a hedge is shaped. Moss and a shrub have completely overtaken a featureless stone sculptures – not unlike the one that saw before – and there’s raised lines running through the dirt and grass. The shrubbery had completely grown over something round and wooden propped against a tree; she can’t make out what it is.

“I don’t think anyone has been here for a long time,” she says.

“Given there’s no official path to here, yes,” Hitsugaya replies.

“I wonder why?”

He walks over to the strange shrub. “Some things are just left to be forgotten. The World of Living is not like ours. The Humans move on quicker.”

The flicker of sympathy in her chest almost makes her forget about why she’d come over here. Still, she offers, “But we do move on, for better or worse or without even realising.”

He looks over his shoulder at her. His expression unreadable, but his usual frown has softened away.

Swallowing against the growing tightness in her throat, she returns her attention to the pier. She places a careful step on to the wooden planks. At the next, there’s a groan. Still, it feels stable.

She treads the rest of the way slowly, coming to a stop near the end. The view is even more beautiful from here, giving her a vista that’s only the lake below, the trees in the middle, and the sky. The clouds have gotten taller since they first arrived.

Her heart seizes and the air is squeezed out of her lungs. A spark. No, a flash, like the afterimage of a lantern after she blinks – the form is there for a second, but quickly dissolves into something shapeless, and then into only colors that fade into nothing. Two hands, one smaller than the other – she’s certain hers is the bigger one – and the lake in the lower half, the line of trees and bank in the middle, and high above is the sky. The hands reach – no, one points – to the clouds towering over the forest and reflecting in the water. The arms are clad is yukata sleeves, here’s in white with Sakura blossoms, the other in yellow and white flowers. Is there a boat on the waters too? With a fishing net cast out on one side? There’s laughter, childish and high-pitched.

She’s held by the memory, unable to breathe for a second that seems to stretch on forever. There’s clouds, but they’re not from the memory. She’s back in the present, Hitsugaya standing at her side. She gasps, trying to catch her breath and hunches over.

“Hey!” He shifts to stand in front of her and holds her shoulders. “What’s going on?”

She wets her lips before she looks to him. “I think…I think I remembered something," she struggles to get out. “I think it’s of me and…a sister?”

She can’t explain how she knows the other hand belongs to a sibling, but saying it aloud makes tears suddenly form again. “I had a sister.”

Hitsugaya only nods, prompting her to keep going.

“I had a sister, and now…she’s gone. I had…parents too.” It’s so obvious, and yet it’s as if it’s only occurring to her now. She’s never had to think about since losing her memories. Her heart hammers against her chest and she’s struggling to regain her breath. “I died before them. I have no idea what happened to them. I could have seen or met them in the Soul Society and never even known it.” A more horrifying thought takes hold. “They might even be Shinigami right now and I’d never know it.”

“Hinamori.” Hitsugaya says her name more pressingly. “Slow down. Breathe.”

“I can’t I –" Tears blur in the corners of her eyes. "What can I do? They’re gone. What am I supposed to do?”

She grunts at the sudden cold pressed near the nape of her neck. Hitsugaya’s hands had left her shoulders and now hold the underside of her jaw. Her tears stop, her mouth agape, but her breath returns.

Seeing her calm down, Hitsugaya’s gaze turns apologetic and he sips his hands away. “You decide, and tell me what I can do."

She’s going in circles. How can she come to terms with all of this? The wind picks up, throwing her ponytail off her shoulder and billowing her skirt. Leaves and petals scatter in the air, some falling on the lake and others amongst the grass.

She takes one of his hands and squeezes it. “Thank you, Shiro-chan.”

Letting go, she walks off the pier and he follows. She goes to the ruins, coming to a stop in the middle of the raised lines. It feels right to stand here, she can’t explain it. “I think there used to be some kind of boat shed here. I’m guessing my… family would come here to fish.” She shrugs weakly. “I don’t know for sure, I’m only guessing.”

She looks to the strange shrub. When approaching it, she can’t explain the uncertainty that it evokes within her. There’s nothing threatening about it, but there’s nothing familiar or knowing about it either.

The shrubbery is more like vines, with branches winding around the tree trunk, and it’s leaves shiny and big. She pulls at a clump, breaking it apart with ease. She takes a few more handfuls while Hitsugaya comes to stand behind her. Again she expects him to voice his concern, but he remains silent.

When she brushes several branches aside, she can make out what’s beneath. The wheel of a cart. It’s so aged she’s certain even applying the tiniest bit of pressure to any part of it would reduce it to splinters beneath her fingertips. Yet it still had its shape.

She thinks about her sketchbooks, stored in the back of her closet and collecting dust. She hasn’t looked at her first ones in years, and she didn’t have any reason not to. But maybe, she was scared to look and remember a time when she had memories of another time. It shouldn’t matter to her, that life ended, had been gone for close to a century.

She wonders if she was blessed or cursed with remembering her old life when she came to the Soul Society. The desperation she’d had the time when trying to draw everything from that life tells it’s the latter, yet she can’t discount the former either. To know one has lived a life before this, no matter how short, to have experienced things – good and bad and somewhere in between – that they may be experienced only once or for the first time again.

She looks back to Hitsugaya then. She’d experienced a lot with him, he makes up a lot of her childhood memories. In the first years of knowing him, the special and novelty of discovering a new world captivated her, but as both wore off, it made a part of her long for the place in her memories. She’d wanted to go back, until the memories went and she didn’t know what she could miss from her life as a Human.

Perhaps this is what all these emotions are, returning to her after all this time. The grief of a girl who wanted to go back, now has to find it’s all gone and the shame having forgotten about it.

It couldn’t be helped, was inevitable for every Soul. Hers. Her Human family too. The Soul Society is so vast that it’s incredibly rare for one to find their family from when they were a Human. She recalls rumors in the beginning of lieutenancy that Ikkaku had a younger sister he’d reunited after she became a Shinigami – despite how dismissive many were at the time, it turned out to be true.

However, in the event it old families found each other, it’s not always for the best. She’d heard whispers in her Academy days of Shinigami born in two very different districts, and finding each other again, only to resent each other for being born in a district higher or lower than each other. She even heard a story where an officer found their brother, only for them to die by his hands because he resented him for ‘leaving their family behind’. The validity of such stories is always contested, so rare is it for Shinigami to find old family members.

If she did meet her sister or parents again, she can’t say for certain how she will react. Would the memories of her previous life come flooding back to her? Would she simply just know it’s them but not remember a thing? Would they know who she is?

She stands, not breaking her gaze from Hitsugaya. She has this life to live, to be with him and everyone else. New family and friends to make and be with, and perhaps, one day even, someone to spend the rest of her life with until she’s reincarnated back to the World of the Living and starts that new life.

Hitsugaya opens his mouth, about to speak, but she stops him when she strides forward and pulls him into a hug. “I’m okay now,” she reassures. “I think I’ve figured it out.”

Hitsugaya is too stunned by her actions to speak at first. Eventually, he relaxes but doesn’t hug her back. “You have?”

She nods. “Thank you for coming here with me. I couldn’t have done this without you, really.”

Several heartbeats pass his arm come loosely around her shoulders and torso. She can sense his confusion, and why wouldn’t he be? It’s like the subordinate he mentioned: how can she express this experience in words? Could she even draw it?

She pulls back just far enough to meet his gaze. “I’m sorry again that I derailed our day.” She offers a rueful smile. “It’s hard to explain. I may never be able to –”

“It can’t be helped.” His words would sound cold if not for how soft his tone was. “So long as you’re all right, then it’s only for you to know.”

She blinks, stunned at first, then her smile widens into a grin. “Thank you.”

But it's not as simple as that. Not yet. Time would help it to make it that way. No, right now, it's too much. Her grin wavers, and that grief, that overwhelming shame, crashes over her like a wave. She bows her head, and the tears fall. "I'm..."

Hitsugaya isn't alarmed, doesn't even utter a word. He tugs on her arms, signalling her to return to the hug, and she does, sobbing into his shoulder.

If only he could've met her old family. If only her two lives could exist at once. If only she didn't know such feelings as these. It's life. It's hurt and relief. It's knowing he's here, has always been, even at her worst moments.

She stands with him for several minutes, coming up when she's certain there' s no tears left to shed. She wipes her face with the back of her arm and quietly apologies for wetting his shirt's shoulder. He says nothing, only raising a hand to catch the few stray tears clinging to the edge of her jaw.

After a beat, they watch the waves of the lake, the swaying of the flora and trees, and the slow migration of the clouds across the sky. Perhaps she should find a way to say goodbye to this place, to this old life. She can’t think of a way, and perhaps leaving with someone from her new life is fitting.

It feels like the right time to leave, but they remain for quite some time, even ending up sitting on the bank in companionable silence. In a moment of boldness, she rests her head on his shoulder, exhaustion slowly seeping into her. He doesn’t go rigid like she half expects.

“Will you come back?”

She glances at Hitsugaya, but he continues to stare out at the lake. He’s always had a striking appearance, but it’s in moment like these she questions if her feelings of friendship are something more.

“No,” she eventually answers. “I won’t.”

When she leaves, will the memories that led her to this place disappear again? Will she recall this day with fondness or melancholy? She doesn’t know, only time will tell.

An hour later, when they make their way back to the hidden path, she only looks back to the pier once. The feeling of rather than the visual of the memory burns in the back of her mind. It might be the last time she remembers it. It could be gone forever, buried like the wheel beneath the vines and flora. There will be no traces of it left in this world or in the Soul Society. She had already forgotten it once, and she will again.

It didn’t mean it didn’t happen or never mattered. So many things are forgotten, big and small, and yet, they live on in some way, consciously or not. She carries the memory and her old life in every step she takes into her new one without knowing. Every experience, remembered or not, has made her who she is.

________________________

Later, after coming through the senkaimon, giving her gigai back, and then parting ways with Hitsugaya, she returns to her room. Exhausted, she considers not joining everyone in the mess hall for dinner, but she’s hungry and it might concern them she isn’t there.

The clothes and bag she’d worn are her own, bought while on a mission in the World of Living just over a decade ago. She changes back into her uniform, ready to go down to the mess hall until she remembers her bag. She lifts it from her bed and takes out the boxed-up mug. She'd strongly considered giving it to him once they returned, another apology for how today turned out.

 She makes a mental note get wrapping paper tomorrow in her break before putting it in her closet. It’ll be there for a while, but at least she doesn’t have to worry about getting him a birthday present for this year.

She goes to take out the bags of candy and the hedge-hog shaped cookie, but halts at the parcel. I forgot to give it back to him! Taking it out, she drops her bag and makes for the door, intending to sprint to Tenth Division before going to dinner.

The tag on the parcel flips over, and the characters written on the back make her pause. It’s her name, and beneath it ‘Sorry it’s late’. She frowns. This is meant for me?

Thinking back to before they parted, Hitsugaya had stared at her bag for longer than she expected. She wouldn’t have needed to remind him of parcel, he knew it was still in there.

She walks backwards until the backs of her knees hit her bed and she sits down. What had he meant by ‘Sorry it’s late’? White day had been and gone, there wasn’t any special event where she was expecting anything from him. If only he were here so could ask. Shell have to ask him when he sees her next.

 She pulls on the string bow, then tears away the brown paper. A book. One she’s never heard of before. The cover shows a green valley and sky sparsely clouded. A woman stands in the foreground, back facing the reader, her head tilted upwards. The title, Gone with the Clouds, and the author’s name are high above the woman, making appear she’s looking at them.

She raises her head to the bookcase against her wall. There’s two rows of books, with a third starting to be occupied by the last three novels she’d gotten – one she bought earlier in the year, the other two collections of haiku poems from Izuru for her birthday. It contends with a purple vase that needs flowers in it and the gift from Hitsugaya and Rangiku for one of her birthdays of tiny figurines of a boy, short-haired and in a blue kimono, and a girl, pig-tailed and in a floral white and red kimono.

On other shelves are old copies of the Seireitei Communication that feature articles or creative contributions from her friends, a tea set she’d bought but has yet to use, the wooden box of color pencils given to her by Shinji last year for her birthday, the box of her colored and black charols, a stack of unused sketchbooks, a baking recipe book, a clay Chappy made by Ichika, a star plushies given by Kazui, a framed photo of her and then Women’s Association at their festival stall, the chest with her old hair accessories – her hair cloth, ribbon, clip, and a bandana given to her by Renji – and an lavender scented candle she’d last lit a few years ago.

She rises from her bed and goes over to slide the book in next to haiku collections.

A birthday gift. It’s a birthday gift.

She lets out a chuckle at the realisation. Honestly, he couldn’t have written it on the tag? This years had been like one of the few others where she didn’t get a gift from him, until today almost three weeks later. Maybe he’d intended to give it to her himself, but then her search for the past diverted things. In the end, she got a memento for this day, and there’d be no way to detach it from it. Not that she’d want to, because for better or worse, today happened.

She slides the book on to the shelf, becoming a part of everything she’d either brought herself or received from someone else. All from her life here.

[dreadsuitsamus]

Ichigo Kurosaki x Reader Blurb 1

author's note: not entirely in line with the canon as far as timelines go, ichigo is around 22, reader is a soul reaper, angst, not entirely orihime friendly

"So what will it be, Ichigo?" Like ice frosting over grass, your voice is calm. Too calm, too quiet, too unlike what he's used to.

And he doesn't need this right now.

"What do you mean?" Ichigo feigns ignorance as bad as ever now, not even meeting your gaze, missing the way your infuriated eyes stare him down but he surely feels the hatred you're spewing.

"It's very simple." Jaw tightened so much it might just crack, your words only barely slip past your lips. "Orihime? Or me?"

His heart is doused in flames by the question. It's not a fair one, to start off, and his mind says one thing while his selfish heart yearns for your own selfishness. But his integrity as a man with morals, integrity as a friend is stronger, beating against his skull like a caged animal and roaring at the troublesome road ahead. Orihime is in immediate danger.

You, not so immediate.

"Why would I choose?" Anger begins flaring in Ichigo himself; are you really so crass? Is life not sacred to you?

He knows it is.

Your fist curls at your side, fingers itching to reach for your zanpakutō and force some sense into him, should it come to blows. Time is of the essence, Soul Society has required everyone to come back and prepare for battle! The Arrancar threat, Aizen is looming and the girl that's never defended herself once isn't at the top of your list of priorities. And on a bad day, you'd feel she's not on that list at all.

"Your life may turn out quite differently depending on this choice."

"Will it?" Ichigo's brown eyes cut sharply to finally look at you, staring you down with the heat of a thousand suns behind it.

"It will certainly depend on if I remain in it." Your heart leaps at the look in his eye. Would he really choose her? "Do you trust me?"

"I want to." Ichigo shoots back.

"We will save her when we can. You can lead the charge, if you want. But she's not-"

"If you say she's not important, then you can just go." The blood in his veins burn at how nonchalant you are, at how uncaring Soul Society is for Orihime. She's been on this journey too, right by everyone's side!

"Your choice."

"I won't let you make me choose, like this is about what I want for dinner! Orihime is our friend! She needs us! What don't you understand about that?! You'd let her suffer? Over what? For what?!"

Ichigo steps toward you, leering over you and taking your shoulder in a strong grip. "You are the one I love. But Orihime is my friend, and she needs me. And if you won't choose me, then tell me how to get to Hueco Mundo before you go."

The answer dances on your tongue, an internal ticking racing in your mind. Go against your direct orders and personal beliefs, or follow Ichigo's heart and save a girl in need of it? Keep your status in Seireitei but lose Ichigo? You don't even know if the girl is alive!

Ichigo's chocolate eyes silently plead with you, his grip like an iron vise. This wouldn't be the first time you've stuck your neck out for him, no. He's fully aware what it could cost you— but it isn't like he wouldn't come for you too. If there's anyone in this world or any other he'd protect, it's you.

"Come on." He whispers, ignoring the way his vision starts to blur. You won't look at him, and his heart sinks. "Do what's right!"

Do what's right in whose point of view, Ichigo?!

The light of a Senkaimon gate lights up behind you and panic floods Ichigo down to his very bones as the door slides open. Just as you were starting to waver! Byakuya, stern and cold as ever, though he speaks quietly, his voice cuts through the room like a bullet.

"Leave him."

The hand on your shoulder means nothing, as Ichigo feels like he's free falling now. You turn away from him, breaking free of the grip easily and walking towards your captain's order without even a second glance behind you. So easily, you'll follow this command?! He means nothing to you?

He's not so sure anymore.

The room goes dark as the door closes and vanishes, leaving Ichigo to fall to his knees. How could you do this to him?

As you walk alongside your captain, your face is stony and unbreaking even against the torment of your breaking heart.

How could he do this to me?