thanquan

[thanquan]

Just the evelator (Aizen x Male!OC)

College au, the original version was written by Hạ Chi Lăng (FB) in Vietnamese, This is merely the translated version of the piece.

(Please insert elevator music while reading this because idk it’s funny)

Today was just an ordinary day.

Or at least, that’s what Quan thought. He woke up like a normal person, went to school without a fuss, and walked into his class calmly just before the bell rang. He responded composedly when the lecturer called his name, slipped out of the lecture hall through the back door without a care, and then peacefully stepped into the elevator, ignoring the strange looks from those around him as he pressed the “close door” button. He thought everything would go according to his usual routine—that he’d spend no more than a few minutes showing his face in class for attendance before disappearing to who-knows-where. Well, except for the billiard players at the local pool hall, who always knew his whereabouts better than anyone else. After all, not a single one of them had dared to challenge him without tasting defeat at his hands, leaving them both bitter and wary. Although, there were always a few thick-skinned souls who kept trying their luck.

But it seemed today wasn’t destined to be a lucky day for him. Somehow—perhaps as a cruel joke from life itself—he found himself under the harsh white fluorescent lights of an office instead of the warm, familiar glow of the pool hall, face-to-face with a refined and charming lecturer.

Quan quietly fidgeted with the smooth ceramic surface of a teacup, feeling the warmth slowly seep into his large hands. His eyes, however, never left the man sitting across from him. His gaze drifted over to the neatly placed nameplate on the desk, occasionally studying the focused expression of the man, as if trying to decipher some kind of answer from his calm demeanor. But all he received was a faint smile and an unreadable look, one that didn’t seem easy to provoke. So, being a perceptive and understanding individual, Quan accepted the reality of the situation and continued sipping his tea, allowing himself to sink into the truth of the matter: P.T.Q, valedictorian of the Computer Science department, a model student with five-star ratings but whose fourth and fifth stars were purely hypothetical, had been caught skipping class by a lecturer of a course he had registered for on a whim. Said lecturer had nabbed him in the elevator while attempting his escape and dragged him straight to the office, where he now sat like a statue. This left Quan thoroughly puzzled, though his hand naturally poured himself a second cup of tea.

“…Am I bothering you by sitting here, prof?”

“You’re free to return to your class if you’d like. I assume you have some lesson to attend today,” Aizen, or rather, Aizen Sousuke—the lecturer of the philosophy course Quan had impulsively signed up for—replied gently, though his eyes never left the stack of papers on his desk.

Hearing this, Quan merely raised an eyebrow. He gave a faint smile.

“You must be joking. I’ve already left class; how could I dare go back now?”

Sometimes, being upfront is the best choice.

“Then does that mean you’d leave my class and not come back as well?”

Or maybe… it isn’t.

“But this isn’t your lecture, is it?”

Aizen suddenly put his pen down, the faint smile on his handsome face growing more pronounced, which gave the student in front of him a foreboding sense of unease. But before Quan could think too deeply about it, the man’s response left him speechless and returned the room to its academic silence.

“Well, who’s to say you wouldn’t do the same in my class?”

And with that, the conversation ended. Aizen returned to his work, while Qun sat quietly, holding onto the tea kettle. He silently drank cup after cup, his golden eyes carefully watching groups of female students giggling as they entered the office after class, one nudging the other forward awkwardly, only for all their laughter to vanish the moment their eyes met his. They froze, staring at the tall man sitting in the corner of the room, drinking tea like it was water. Hesitant, they shuffled over to Aizen’s desk, only to quickly turn and leave once again, leaving a strangely awkward and silent atmosphere in their wake.

They came and went with a mix of excitement and embarrassment, and by the time Quan had counted five groups of female students, the tea kettle was empty. The distant sound of the bell signaling the end of class rang in his ears, prompting him to habitually bow his head to the lecturer and gather his things to leave. Aizen gave an unspoken nod of approval, allowing him to go. Quân walked out, enduring the discomfort of an over-caffeinated stomach and the stiffness in his lower back from sitting in one position for so long.

That was enough for today.

[thanquan]

KlubOutside Q&A 501-600 [Translation]

Translated by @reikorun

Q501.

2023.08.14

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

A501.

She's 15 years old.

Q502.

2023.08.14

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

A502.

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

Q503.

2023.08.21

Why is it called "Karakura Town"?

A503.

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

Q504.

2023.08.21

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

A504.

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

Q505.

2023.08.21

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

A505.

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

Q506.

2023.08.28

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

A506.

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

Q507.

2023.08.28

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

A507.

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

Q508.

2023.08.28

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

A508.

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

Q509.

2023.09.04

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

A509.

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

Q510.

2023.09.04

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

A510.

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

Q511.

2023.09.04

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

A511.

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

Q512.

2023.09.11

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

A512.

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

Q513.

2023.09.11

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

A513.

What a frightening prospect.

Q514.

2023.09.11

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

A514.

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

Q515.

2023.09.18

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

A515.

A few still remain in a remote area of Rukongai.

Q516.

2023.09.18

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

A516.

That's a good guess.

Q517.

2023.09.18

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

A517.

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

Q518.

2023.09.18

Please tell us the gender of Nianzol Weizol. 

A518.

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

Q519.

2023.09.25

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

A519.

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

Q520.

2023.09.25

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

A520.

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

Q521.

2023.09.25

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

A521.

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

Q522.

2023.10.02

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

A522.

That is the correct order of events.

Q523.

2023.10.02

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

A523.

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

Q524.

2023.10.02

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

A524.

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

Q525.

2023.10.09

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

A525.

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

Q526.

2023.10.09

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

A526.

Yumichika was an abandoned child from Rukongai.

Q527.

2023.10.09

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

A527.

They do. By the way, Rickenbacker is male.

Q528.

2023.10.16

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

A528.

It will be restored within the next seven days.

Q529.

2023.10.16

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

A529.

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

Q530.

2023.10.16

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

A530.

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

Q531.

2023.10.23

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

A531.

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

Q532.

2023.10.23

Is Yukio unmarried in the Echoing Jaws of Hell arc?

A532.

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

Q533.

2023.10.23

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

A533.

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

Q534.

2023.10.30

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

A534.

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

Q535.

2023.10.30

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

A535.

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

Q536.

2023.10.30

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

A536.

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

Q537.

2023.11.06

How did you feel when BLEACH was parodied in Gintama?

A537.

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

Q538.

2023.11.06

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

A538.

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

Q539.

2023.11.06

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

A539.

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

Q540.

2023.11.13

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

A540.

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

Q541.

2023.11.13

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

A541.

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

Q542.

2023.11.13

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

A542.

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

Q543.

2023.11.20

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

A543.

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

Q544.

2023.11.20

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

A544.

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

Q545.

2023.11.20

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

A545.

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

Q546.

2023.11.27

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

A546.

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

Q547.

2023.11.27

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

A547.

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

Q548.

2023.11.27

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

A548.

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

Q549.

2023.12.04

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

A549.

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

Q550.

2023.12.04

Do you have a PS5?

A550.

I don't have one.

Q551.

2023.12.04

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

A551.

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

Q552.

2023.12.11

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

A552.

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

Q553.

2023.12.11

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

A553.

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

Q554.

2023.12.11

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

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

A554.

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

Q555.

2023.12.18

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

A555.

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

Q556.

2023.12.18

Does the blade grow as a Zanpakutō develops? 

A556.

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

Q557.

2023.12.18

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

A557.

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

Q558.

2023.12.25

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

A558.

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

Q559.

2023.12.25

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

A559.

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

Q560.

2023.12.25

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

A560.

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

Q561.

2024.01.01

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

A561.

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

Q562.

2024.01.01

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

A562.

Yes.

Q563.

2024.01.01

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

A563.

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

Q564.

2024.01.08

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

A564.

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

Q565.

2024.01.08

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

A565.

I think you're right.

Q566.

2024.01.08

What time does sensei wake up every morning?

A566.

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

Q567.

2024.01.15

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

A567.

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

Q568.

2024.01.15

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

A568.

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

Q569.

2024.01.15

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

A569.

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

Q570.

2024.01.22

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

A570.

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

Q571.

2024.01.22

Can't Orihime heal Izuru's body?

A571.

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

Q572.

2024.01.22

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

A572.

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

Q573.

2024.01.29

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

A573.

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

Q574.

2024.01.29

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

A574.

It's a family with poor eyesight.

Q575.

2024.01.29

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

A575.

Uryū is special.

Q576.

2024.02.05

Why does Akon have horns on his head?

A576.

They're implants (transdermal implants).

Q577.

2024.02.05

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

A577.

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

Q578.

2024.02.05

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

A578.

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

Q579.

2024.02.12

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

A579.

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

Q580.

2024.02.12

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

A580.

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

Q581.

2024.02.12

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

A581.

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

Q582.

2024.02.19

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

A582.

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

Q583.

2024.02.19

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

A583.

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

Q584.

2024.02.19

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

A584.

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

Q585.

2024.02.26

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

A585.

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

Q586.

2024.02.26

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

A586.

The upper limit is 5 people.

Q587.

2024.02.26

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

A587.

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

Q588.

2024.03.04

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

A588.

It's stretch cotton.

Q589.

2024.03.04

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

A589.

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

Q590.

2024.03.04

In what way did Yamamoto and Unohana come to meet?

A590.

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

Q591.

2024.03.11

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

A591.

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

Q592.

2024.03.11

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

A592.

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

Q593.

2024.03.11

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

A593.

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

Q594.

2024.03.18

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

A594.

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

Q595.

2024.03.18

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

A595.

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

Q596.

2024.03.18

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

A596.

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

Q597.

2024.03.25

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

A597.

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

Q598.

2024.03.25

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

A598.

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

Q599.

2024.03.25

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

A599.

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

Q600.

2024.04.01

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

A600.

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

Translation Footnotes:

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

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

[thanquan]

Orihime deserves better, let me take the ginger-head pls

[thanquan]

Someone did this as a joke on Twitter... Boy, they're closer than they think to the truth!

It's funny watching people shipping these two, joking about stuff in the manga like this and not understanding that no, Ichigo was not there for her in the sense they want it to be.

He'd be there for basically anyone else, if you that meant he could fight!

His instinct is that of a warrior.

The ending is bad because it directly contradicts the earlier hints that Kubo himself had five us...

That Inoue had an unhealthy obsession, a Knight In Shining Armour syndrome.

That Ichigo was a ferocious warrior, that is will was to fight, to win.

That the narrative was supposed to bare the bones of what doesn't constitute a relationship.

That these two people couldn't be more different, more far apart in their dreams, objectives and paths.

The tiny little town... Where Ichigo didn't fit...

A killer instinct.

Not very romance prone, is it?

But the perfect quality for a Shinigami!

Left Inoue in Hueco Mundo...

Came rushing to his place... To Soul Society... To protect them...

His very heart and soul screamed for these people! Not for one minute did he think about Inoue or Chad. That he'd left them there...

He didn't care. He cared about these people. This place.

There's a line separating the Soul Society and the World Of The Living here...

As @mondengel already pointed out, Uryu thinks he knows Ichigo, but he doesn't... The truth about Ichigo's heart and soul comes from the mouth of Hitsugaya himself, speaking of what this particular group of Shinigami always knew to be true deep down inside...

Remember who said these words?

The girl who's supposed to love Ichigo... The one who couldn't fight Tsukishima's power (which again, did not erase Ichigo's presence. Just inserted himself into the narrative.) and trust the man she's supposed to have feelings for.

She fought against him. She was prejudicial to his path so many times...

And people still think what they got was a happy ending...

Please... A happy ending would have seen the people from Karakura make the right choices in life, instead of burying themselves into the exact same things they claimed to hate at the beginning of this story.

A happy ending would have radically change Soul Society, with Ichigo there on a pivotal role within the Gotei 13.

[thanquan]

Burnt sunset (Hisagi Shuhei x Male! OC)

Please don’t blame me for only daring to admit it in my dreams. You are the person I love most in this wretched world.

Probably OOC. Depressing contents and smoking below.

Shūhei sat alone on the rooftop of a crumbling warehouse, the wind carrying the faint scent of rust and salt from the sea. The twilight bled into the horizon, the sun retreating like a coward, leaving behind streaks of orange and red that smeared the clouds like old scars. His fingers trembled as he lifted a cigarette to his lips, but he didn’t light it. It was just something to hold on to—something to keep his hands busy so he wouldn’t punch the wall.

The world hadn’t been kind to him lately. Or maybe it never had been. He couldn’t tell anymore. He felt like he’d been drowning since the day he first touched a blade, and the water had only grown darker, heavier. Some days, it was like he was living someone else’s life—a man who smiled too easily, who played the role of lieutenant, of hero, of someone who mattered. But when the mask slipped, when he was alone in the shadows, all he could feel was the weight of his own insignificance.

The sun still burned the dusk with its own hands.

And then there was him.

He hated him for it. For the way his laugh could cut through the silence he wrapped himself in. For the way he saw him—really saw him—when he couldn’t bear to look at himself. It was terrifying how much he wanted him, how much he hated wanting him. But that was the thing about Shuhei: he was a man made of contradictions. A soldier who hated war. A lover who didn’t believe in love. A survivor who sometimes wished he hadn’t been spared.

The rooftop door creaked open, and there he was, standing in the doorway with a six-pack of cheap beer dangling from one hand. His other hand rested on the doorframe, like he was trying to decide whether to step into his darkness or leave him to rot in it. He wanted to tell him to go, to save himself from whatever black hole he’d become, but the words got caught in his throat.

“You look like shit,” he said, stepping out into the dying light. No hesitation. No pity. It was one of the things he liked about him—how you didn’t sugarcoat the truth. He dropped the beer between them and sat down, his shoulder brushing against his. The warmth of his skin made Shuhei flinch. He wasn’t used to it, but he didn’t move away.

“Thanks,” he muttered, his voice rough, like he hadn’t spoken in days. He picked up one of the cans and cracked it open, the hiss of carbonation filling the silence between them. “You didn’t have to come… Quan.”

Inferiority always kills people in the dead of night.

“Yeah, well, I figured you’d be up here brooding. Thought I’d join you. Misery loves company, right?”

He snorted, a sound that was half-laugh, half-sigh. “You could do better than me.”

“Probably,” he said, chuckling dryly as he took a sip of his beer. “But I’m not going anywhere.”

The sun sank lower, the sky bleeding into darkness. He stared at the horizon, at the way the light fought so hard to hold on, only to lose to the inevitable. It was beautiful, in a way—how even the most radiant things could be consumed by shadows.

“Do you ever think,” he started, his voice barely above a whisper, “that some people were just… born wrong? Like they weren’t supposed to exist?”

The other guy didn’t answer right away. Instead, he reached over and took the unlit cigarette from his hand, rolling it between your fingers like he was trying to understand why he held onto it without using it, before lighting it up for himself. Finally, with the cigarette between his lips, he said, “Everyone feels like that sometimes. Like the world’s too big, and you’re too small, and nothing you do will ever matter. But you’re here, Shuhei. You’re alive. At least, you don’t get to be alive without meaning. Even luck is a form of meaning.”

He wanted to believe him. He really did. But the weight in his chest wouldn’t let him. “Sometimes, I think… I think I was supposed to die a long time ago. That someone else deserved to live more than me.”

He didn’t look at him. Instead, he gave the lit cigarette out to him, the flame flickering between your fingers. “Maybe. But you didn’t. So stop wasting time wishing you weren’t.”

He took the cigarette, his hand brushing against him. The warmth lingered, even as he brought the cigarette to his lips and inhaled. The smoke burned his throat, but it was a welcome distraction from the ache in his chest.

“I don’t deserve you,” he said finally, the words slipping out before he could stop them.

Please don’t blame me for only daring to admit it in my dreams.

“Probably not,” he agreed, nodding thoughtfully as he downed his can. “But I’m here anyway.”

Shuhei looked down at the scene below.

“Figures.”

The wind picked up again, colder this time, biting at his skin. He thought about getting up, about going back inside, but he didn’t move. He just sat there, staring at the place where the sun used to be, holding onto a cigarette he wouldn’t smoke.

And Quan.

And maybe that was the worst part of it—knowing that this was it. This was all there was. The rooftop. The silence. The cigarette he would never smoke. Him.

“Of course.”

You are the person I love most in this wretched world.

[thanquan]

Lieutenant Quan but chibi version

(C): Trang Chang (FB)

[thanquan]

The 4 types of BANKAI in Bleach

Combat-type Bankai: Summons a Weapon or increases your basic atributtes

Elemental type Bankai: Allows it's user to create and manipulate a element of nature

Summoning-type Bankai: Summons a creature to assist it's user in combat

Territorial-type Bankai: Creates a large area that is under the control of it's user

[thanquan]

A letter lost in the piles of documents and papers (Ukitake Jushiro x Male! OC)

Perhaps it was just another letter from countless of admirers.

Set in pre-TYBW.

From the barracks of Squad 13, where the moon is high and the night is as peaceful.

To my Lieutenant,

As I write these lines, a gentle breeze brushes through the tree canopies in the garden, carrying with it the whispers of time. In this fleeting moment, I wonder if you, too, can feel the same breeze as I do. But I suppose not—after all, you are carrying out your duties in the Human World. We are so far apart that this breeze could never reach you. Yet, even so, I want to believe that it carries whispers to you—words I lack the courage to say aloud.

Perhaps I am not skilled at expressing my feelings. Perhaps I fear that once spoken, these words will shatter the fragile peace in our relationship. It would be better if we remained nothing more than superior and subordinate, I know that. But I have failed to keep my own resolve. I’ve tried, Quan, and I’ve failed. Do you know? When I look into your eyes, I finally understand the allure of treasures that drive people to risk everything for a fleeting chance at wealth. And when those eyes lower slightly, veiled by your thick lashes, I find myself wishing time would stop for just a moment—like the noonday sun casting its shadows still beneath the trees. I think your eyes hold my soul captive in just the same way.

My dearest Quan,

I’ve always thought myself unworthy of anyone’s affection, and that I should not disrupt anyone’s feelings with my fleeting existence. My body is frail, as fragile as a blade of grass trembling in the storm; my life is but a small ripple navigating through jagged rocks. Ukitake Jushiro—someone teetering between life and death—should steer clear of the extravagance of earthly emotions. And yet, somehow, you’ve drawn back the curtain of moonlight and reached a corner of my heart in a way no one else ever has. You didn’t have to say much or do much, and before I knew it, your mere presence became enough to calm the storms within me.

There were long nights when I lied awake, thinking of you. My dear lieutenant, am I being selfish to keep you in my thoughts like this? To wish that you could stay here forever?

I do not hope for you to read these words, and perhaps that is for the best. Let this letter rest quietly among the many you receive from admirers who hold you in high regard. Writing this has lightened my heart somewhat. Unlike Shunsui, you know I am not one to drown my sorrows in drink, so I have chosen to bare my soul through the tip of my brush instead.

I’ve always tried to maintain a certain distance between us. And my dear lieutenant, I don’t know whether to be grateful or disappointed by how naturally you’ve accepted that awkward gap. Perhaps it’s for the best; at least I don’t have to worry about whether I’m expressing myself well—because, after all, it seems you wouldn’t give it much thought either. I’ve always thought you were a bit indifferent by nature. I once admired that cold, composed side of you—when I hadn’t yet fallen for you. But now, my heart is trampled underfoot, just like so many others who’ve been ensnared by you. I now understand their pain, though I suppose I am still more fortunate than most. At least you cannot entirely distance yourself from me overnight, as you so often do with others. I am still your captain after all. I don’t want to cling to you through the ties of rank, but at the same time, I can’t help but feel a selfish satisfaction when you show me care in those moments. It turns out I am not as virtuous as I thought—I should have realized that sooner.

I do not wish for you to reciprocate these feelings, my lieutenant. I only hope you know that you are more than just my subordinate. You are the lighthouse guiding me through the thickest storms of my soul. You know, you often say that you will always stand by me, that you will shoulder the burdens of Squad 13 with unwavering dedication. I know you say those words with the loyalty of a lieutenant—but sometimes, I can’t help but wish that somewhere deep within, they carried another meaning. A meaning I don’t dare hope for, but cannot stop yearning as well.

If only, my dear.

From your captain,

Ukitake Jushiro

[thanquan]

I'm gonna pretend that Aizen was not heavily OOC-ed here in TYBW anime adaption and just be a brainless beauty admirer because I am too tired for this. What's with the Aizen-stepping stone-Sousuke trend going on???

[thanquan]

Lil snake came home and not his dad 💔 I guess I should start drawing Aizen as some sorts of lucky charm for gacha games

[thanquan]

Quick 2-dollar sketch comm for a friend while we're hanging out on Discord. It's fun I guess.

[thanquan]

Lip balm, lip, balm (Kurosaki Ichigo x Male! OC)

The original version was written in Vietnamese, by Khuất Linh Vi Lang on Facebook. This is a translated version of a writing piece that I have commissioned her to do, do not repost under any circumstance.

The land veiled in mist and the damp road beneath one’s feet have never been anything too promising, for no prophecy exists to forewarn us of what lurks behind that hazy curtain. Even the footprints we leave behind fade into obscurity, so how could one possibly expect clarity of thought or a well-lit path forward? Ichigo loathed this haze — loathed it to the point that he knew he’d lose his mind eventually. To stumble upon ominous signs at the break of dawn, only to end up entangled with someone so maddeningly peculiar by midday, was enough to push anyone to their limits.

If there was any “principle” to speak of, Ichigo could admit he hadn’t exactly adhered to it with any reverence. For a relationship that didn’t hold any official position in either of their lives, he probably should have remained more detached. But people are bound to make mistakes at least once in their lives, and Ichigo wasn’t about to claim he was above that. So here he was, caught in the spinning wheel of restless thoughts, wandering endlessly, his brows furrowing as his lips felt the indifference of a kiss that had suddenly grown cold.

Ngô Hồng Phúc wasn’t, by any measure, someone overly daring or bold — at least, Ichigo still believed so for now. Though he had a habit of playful flirtation, his kisses were always restrained, never involving the tongue, and their touches were fleeting, barely grazing through thin layers of clothing. Somehow, Hồng Phúc managed to imbue even the briefest contact with a sense of reverence, as though he truly respected these moments they shared. It was a contradiction to his outward demeanor, which gave no such impression. But today, perhaps because a pesky gust of wind had ruined the hairstyle he’d spent half an hour perfecting, Hồng Phúc seemed moodier than usual.

“Hm? What’s with the staring? Am I so handsome today that you can’t take your eyes off me?”

He turned to face Ichigo’s scowling expression, his lips curling into a teasing grin, followed by a few rhetorical questions that Ichigo had no intention of answering. Hồng Phúc leaned back slightly, his hand resting lightly on a broken slab of concrete, while the backlight of the sun cast his shadow onto Ichigo, enveloping the younger boy in a heavy, somber hue. Perhaps Ichigo should have known — this was the universe’s way of warning him about an elaborate prank, one that Hồng Phúc had orchestrated with precision.

“It’s nothing.”

Of course, Ichigo would deflect. Hồng Phúc had predicted as much. Ichigo was always perceptive enough to sense when something was going off course, yet too stubborn to admit that it was weighing on him. It wasn’t himself, not directly, but one of the two had to be the cause of Ichigo’s tightened lips and restless thoughts.

Hồng Phúc’s long legs remained positioned on either side of Ichigo, and his soft, fragrant hair was within perfect reach of resting against Hồng Phúc’s shoulder — though naturally, Ichigo would never initiate such a gesture. But if Hồng Phúc, on a whim, were to pull him close, trapping him within the lingering scent of cigarettes clinging to his body, Ichigo wouldn’t squirm or pull away. His cheeks might flush a deeper shade of red, but he wouldn’t fight it. If statistics were to be believed, nine out of ten times when they found themselves in this position, Hồng Phúc would pull him in. Yet today, a day no different from any other, was the one exception. This time, he didn’t.

Instead, Ichigo felt the light ruffle of his hair being tousled, only for Hồng Phúc to smooth it back into place. He smiled, still as dazzling as ever, but it only weighed Ichigo’s chaotic thoughts down further.

“Go home early today, okay? I’ve got plans.”

Hồng Phúc’s hand cradled Ichigo’s face as if preparing for another kiss, yet no kiss came. Instead, Hồng Phúc’s fingers brushed softly against the corner of his eyes, and that was all.

“What? Of course, I can go home on my own. I’m not some three-year-old.”

Ichigo felt the heat rise to his neck, ears, and face, guessing he looked every bit like the ridiculous nickname Hồng Phúc often teased him with — “Strawberry” — red and sweet (according to Hồng Phúc’s elaboration). Swatting his hand away, Ichigo took a step back, retreating just far enough to escape his grasp. He cast a quick glance back at him, as if hoping for some sign he might do something more. But no, there was nothing. That casual indifference was enough to make Ichigo wish he could forget it entirely.

“I’m heading home.”

Hồng Phúc shrugged. Oh, how infuriating — Ichigo didn’t even bother to scold him for that mocking smirk today.

—

But bitter as it was, Ichigo couldn’t help but realize that just because you want to avoid floundering doesn’t mean everything will fall into place. He didn’t wish to cling to this nameless, rootless feeling, yet his chest ached each time it lingered in his thoughts. If the restless nights filled with endless tossing and turning made him anxious, then those fleeting, hurried kisses were pushing him to the brink of an emotional eruption.

Ichigo took a deep breath — one more time — as Hồng Phúc only glanced at him briefly before looking away again. The scattered words Ichigo could catch from three steps away became the sole thing occupying Hồng Phúc’s world.

Ichigo knew something was off. His kisses were colder, his gaze less attentive. But that wasn’t enough to accuse him of apathy, betrayal, or cruelty. So, Ichigo found himself scolding his own mind, whispering, “Come on, Ichigo, you’re overreacting.”

Turning away, he tried to pull himself out of the endless loop of fragmented thoughts. His fingers absently fiddled with a pen, and for reasons beyond him, Ichigo found himself wondering how many seconds Hồng Phúc’s lips would linger on him if they kissed today.

“I must be losing my mind.”

The classroom suddenly fell silent, awkwardly so, and all eyes turned toward Ichigo. It seemed the loud “thud” from him smacking his forehead against the wooden desk had startled his classmates. Shrinking into his shoulders, he prayed they wouldn’t focus on him for more than a minute, lest his face truly combust.

—

When it came to Hồng Phúc’s gentleness, the clearest evidence was in the way he kissed him — tenderly, without any overly audible sounds, even when they were alone in a room. His demeanor suggested something far more careless, and truth be told, he wasn’t all that serious. Yet he was no crude playboy with empty charm. The boundaries he quietly established and the subtle care he wove into their ambiguous relationship always put Ichigo at ease. Ichigo never thought he’d grow tired of it.

But now, he might have to take that back. Four kisses, each lasting no longer than two seconds — even someone not particularly enamored with affection would struggle to find peace with such brevity. Ichigo wanted to ask, wanted to demand an explanation for what had changed, what had turned Hồng Phúc from someone who once adored his lips as much as he did his cigarettes into someone so rushed and distant. His eyes burned, whether from unshed tears or some unseen agitation, and no matter how many times he bit his lip, the words he longed to say refused to come out.

“Are you mad at me for something?”

“No? What makes you think that?”

Hồng Phúc raised an eyebrow in response, seemingly unbothered by the turmoil Ichigo tried so hard to bury — or so Ichigo thought. In truth, Hồng Phúc had noticed, but he decided this wasn’t the time. “Just a few more minutes,” he silently promised himself and the boy before him.

Poor Ichigo, so caught in the web of someone who delighted in setting traps just to watch him squirm. And yet, how fortunate he was — for this would be the most harmless scheme he’d ever be ensnared in.

Ichigo furrowed his brows, his gaze flitting up and down, searching for any hint of deceit in Hồng Phúc’s lashes or the depths of his eyes. But he found none, not even the faintest flicker of boredom. His breaths grew heavier. Perhaps the problem didn’t lie with this infuriating man after all? Ichigo’s cheeks flushed as he touched his lips, then his nose, and finally exhaled softly into his palm.

“There’s no smell, though…”

It took all of Hồng Phúc’s self-control not to laugh aloud at the ridiculous mutterings he overheard. Wrapping an arm around Ichigo’s shoulders, he pulled him close, pressing him gently into his chest until their shadows overlapped on the ground.

“What are you mumbling about? What’s this? Did I do something to make you think I’m mad at you?”

How could he possibly explain this? It was hard enough for Ichigo to take control in the key moments of their relationship, always so naive against someone as experienced as Hồng Phúc. And now, to bare his vulnerable heart completely, to let Hồng Phúc see every hidden thought and feeling he’d never voiced… No, Ichigo couldn’t handle that. But he also couldn’t stand the constant unease, the endless wondering. The answer was within reach, if only he dared to ask.

“Well… uh, it’s just… you’ve been kind of… distant these past few days. I don’t know if you… don’t like kissing me anymore or… something.”

Hồng Phúc’s shoulders shook with laughter, and Ichigo’s face burned crimson. Shutting his eyes tightly, he shoved at Hồng Phúc’s shoulder, trying to push him away. He understood now — he’d walked straight into a trap. Hồng Phúc, ever curious and mischievous, had been toying with his mind all along.

Hồng Phúc tilted Ichigo’s chin upward, holding it lightly, his gaze fixed on the lips he’d been longing to claim again. From somewhere, he produced a small pink tube of lip balm that Ichigo vaguely recognized. Popping the cap off with a practiced ease, Hồng Phúc twisted it up, his movements both gentle and teasing as he smeared it across Ichigo’s lips.

The sticky film on his lips made Ichigo uncomfortable, and he instinctively tried to lick it off — but Hồng Phúc was quicker. With a firm but tender grip on Ichigo’s chin, he stopped him, his touch gentle yet commanding enough to make Ichigo forget he could still stick out his tongue if he wanted to.

“Lips get dry easily this time of year, you know. Saliva makes it worse. So don’t even think about licking it off, or it’ll just disappear. Dry lips feel scratchy when you kiss, don’t they?”

Such a lie — he was just using it as an excuse to mess with Ichigo.

“Well, well, isn’t this a surprise? My little Strawberry even cares about how I kiss him. You like it, huh? Want me to kiss you more?”

The answer was no, obviously. But even if it were yes, Hồng Phúc wouldn’t have backed off. Ichigo’s lips would remain his playground until they turned bright red. Not that it mattered — Ichigo didn’t even get the chance to answer.

His breath brushed against Ichigo’s lips, so close there was no more space left between them. And then, Hồng Phúc kissed him — lingering for a few seconds before softly sucking on his lower lip. A gentle nibble, a playful tug, a slow, deliberate press — his lips moved against Ichigo’s like the wind stirring the surface of a lake, relentless and intoxicating. In that moment, Hồng Phúc thought to himself, this would have to be the most passionate embrace yet. No matter what happened afterward, no moment could ever make Ichigo’s heart race like this one.

—

“Your lip balm is completely gone now. What was the point of putting it on?”

“Keep it.” Hồng Phúc tossed the tube into Ichigo’s hands with a slight chuckle. “Only used it twice anyway.”

[thanquan]

A letter from Muken (Aizen Souske x Male!OC)

A letter written from a particular prisoner.

Set in post-TYBW arc.

From Muken, where time has lost all meaning,

To my dearest lieutenant.

I write this letter with a hint of curiosity, mixed with the rare amusement I seldom grant anyone. You might be surprised to receive it, but I can’t help but wonder: what is it about you that caught my attention? Is it the way you act toward me, or the apathetic viewpoint of you toward everything - neutral, detached under all of that flimsy enthusiasm? Or perhaps I am simply drawn to your existence – like a moth rushing toward the flame, unaware that it’s burning itself alive.

I don’t blame you, of course. Even here in Muken, where light cannot reach, I find it intriguing to think of you. Someone like me – labeled a demon, a betrayer – finding joy in recalling the look in your eyes. That gaze of yours is so peculiar. It wasn’t the look of someone in fear, nor was it the look of admiration. You looked at me as though you have known me since the birth of Hell. As if you thought I was an old puzzle being praised and looked at for over a thousand times, yet unsolved. A melancholy look, dare I say, yet almost sympathetic, and I wonder why.

Though, let me share a secret with you, and only you my dearest lieutenant: I am not a puzzle. I am the answer.

But do you know what’s most interesting? This answer is never fixed. It shifts, it evolves – and I can’t help but feel a thrill at the thought that perhaps you’re the same as me. A being always changing, always seeking something far beyond itself.

I once thought I was the only one like this. But then you appeared.

Isn’t it ironic? Someone who once stood at the pinnacle, controlling everything at will, is now imprisoned in darkness. Yet even in this darkness, I can feel your presence - from miles, far far away from above, perhaps somewhere in the barracks of Gotei 13. You are a question without an answer – and I, though I find it rather unpleasant to admit it, find myself drawn to unraveling you.

No, I’m not saying I love you, Lieutenant Quan. Love is far too cheap a word for this, and I know you don't do "love". You are not like me, but you are also not like anyone else. You are a contradiction: rational yet emotional, caring and uncaring being put on top of each other and repeating that for a hundred times. Perhaps it is precisely this that caught my attention. I'm not sure what this feeling is – I don't usually name things I don't understand. But I know that if there is one thing that makes me not regret looking back on everything, it is that I met you. I would call this a game between us. A game in which both you and I are not just the players, but also the rules. Do you find that intriguing, Quan?

Think of this letter as an invitation. An invitation for you, even if only in your dreams, to step into my world. And if you are bold enough to reply, surprise me. I enjoy surprises – especially from you.

I don’t expect a reply. Partly because I don’t think you will write, and partly because I don’t need one. But if you do write, I will read every word. And if you don’t, I will simply smile, like someone who already knows the outcome of the game but still relishes every moment of it.

Sincerely,

Aizen Sousuke

[thanquan]

Warm up sketch

Ichimaru Gin my beloved snake

[thanquan]

Quick rambling because pspsps this is so true (delulu is my solulu)

This morning, I came up with an idea: a single dad university lecturer teaching philosophy—Aizen Sosuke—and a computer science student, Q, who signed up for this elective course.

Basically, Q moves into a new rental home, only to unexpectedly end up as Aizen’s neighbor without realizing it. After attending the first class, he suddenly goes, “Wait, my neighbor is the lecturer for this course I just signed up for?” From there, the story develops further.

Aizen is a single dad who adopted Gin for some reason (Aizen and Gin just have that dad-son dynamic to me). In this AU, Gin is probably a high school student (I pick the reference from the key visual novel game Bleach Highschool Warfare)—a genius-level kid who gets top grades but is constantly breaking school rules and picking fights. And yet, Aizen turns a blind eye to everything, as long as Gin keeps his grades up. Q, on the other hand, is always grumbling internally about their situation: “A father who’s a teacher, while his kid burns the rulebook,” even though he himself wasn’t much better back in the day. In the manga, Gin is a genius that Aizen nurtures for his plan, so the single-dad Aizen setting fits perfectly. Plus, Aizen used to teach at the Shin’o Academy in the Soul Society, so his role as a university lecturer makes complete sense to me.

(Here is Gin from the game)

Q, on the other hand, is the CompSci valedictorian—top of his class—who leans more toward self-studying than structured learning. He’s the type to show up for roll call and then leave, often heading to a billiards hall or somewhere similar. One day, after signing in and planning to skip class to play pool, he ends up bumping into Aizen in the elevator. Somehow, from heading to the billiards hall, Q suddenly finds himself in Aizen’s office instead. Aizen, of course, is the hot, intelligent, and sophisticated lecturer everyone admires on campus. So when Q hangs out in Aizen’s office, it’s inevitable that a few students will drop by, using excuses to talk to him. But then they see this compsci valedictorian sitting there, casually drinking all the tea in their professor’s office. Some female students, hoping to flirt with Aizen, are immediately met with the sight of this ominous presence occupying the room.

As the story progresses, Q ends up having meals at Aizen’s house (you know how cooking is tiring for someone who's living alone). Aizen is a decent cook, favoring light and healthy dishes (since, in the manga, he liked tofu and disliked eggs when he's still in Gotei 13, so I headcanon his taste as leaning toward subtle and clean flavors). Usually, Aizen cooks while Q handles the cleanup. At first, Gin is super snarky and sarcastic toward Q, but Q is just as sharp-tongued. Over time, it evolves into playful banter—kind of like those stepmom/stepchild dynamics but much more lighthearted. Eventually, Q stops being scared of the “little snake” because he’s already got the “big snake” wrapped around his finger lmao.

Yes, I do call Aizen-Gin duo as the snake family, change my mind if you can.

[thanquan]

Little strawberry boy and his boyfriend doing crossdressing.

(C): Marilyn Makana (FB)