#byakuyaxreader

You’re casually having tea with Byakuya, but you've adjusted yourself in your seat at least a dozen times already.

Byakuya is sitting as elegant and calm as ever.

“Is there something you’d like to say?”

You jump, shaking your head.

“N-No of course not!!”

You start laughing stupidly.

“I’m such a coward.”

It’s hard to find the appropriate words. So when you finally stop laughing, you notice that Byakuya has placed his drink down and he’s just waiting patiently for you to voice your views. There’s no use pretending or avoiding it. He’s always been pretty good at reading you. You might as well own up.

“Taicho, why have you never tried to..”

Your words fall off at the end, and you fidget in place. It’s hard to broach the topic without being embarrassed, but given some of the things you’ve already done, you really shouldn’t be. Your flushed cheeks give you away and he understands.

“I never realized how insensitive my proposal was until that day.”

The statement has you a bit puzzled, but you seem to get what he’s referring to. His proposal in front of all the captains when your father tried to ruin everything.

In all honesty, just the idea of marriage used to bring you dread. You could never get excited like some of your other squad members when they would gush about such topics. The very word was almost paralyzing to you, because you could only associate it with all those painful and unwanted memories.

Yet that day, when Byakuya stood in front of everyone and bared his heart, it was touching. You knew the proposal was an impulse, but the fact that he’d thought so far ahead, that he saw a future with you, it was the very first time that the idea of being married hadn’t brought you fear. You almost felt comforted, because you could picture it with him.

“I cannot remove any of those painful memories, but I can prevent creating new ones. More than anything, I would like to make love to you.”

His confession has your heart beating harshly against your chest.

“But I refuse to force you into a situation that you are not prepared for. I have no interest in tying you down or putting you in a position that will bring you more pain. When we are both sure that marriage is what we want, then we can take that step together. Until then, I have no problem fulfilling all of your desires, your wants.”

The way his eyes run over your body makes your flush, and you’re once again blushing. You have no idea what you’ve done to deserve any of this, but you're grateful.

“Do you want to get married, Taicho?”

He seems hesitant to answer. You know he wants to be honest, but he doesn’t want to put you on the spot.

He finally voices his response.

“I do.”

You nod, and when you take his hands, you can see the confusion on his face. You work up all the bravery you have to say these next words.

“I-I love you more than anyone in the world Taicho!! P-Please be my husband!!”

You bow your head, and Byakuya looks stunned. Your hands are shaking, he can feel the tremors, but he’s still trying to process what just happened.

“You..want to marry me?”

“HAI!!”

He’s speechless, truly. He urges you upright, maybe to assure you that you don’t have to make such a proposal for his sake, but when your eyes meet, he can see the sheer adoration, the love in your eyes. Whatever he’d planned to say has completely left his mind. Your blushing, that flustered expression so easy to read on your face, yet he can’t help but think that you’ve never looked more beautiful.

His hand reaches over and he cups your cheek.

“Once you become my wife, it will be impossible for me to let you go.”

Your eyes water, and you nod happily.

“Please make me your wife.”

He doesn’t need any more encouragement. You squeal when he pulls your right into his lap.

“Please take care of me.” 

He states.

Your tears fall, and you hold unto him, laughing.

“You’ve grown to be such a beautiful young woman (Y/N)-sama.”

The maid spoke, pulling back your hair. You wish you could share the sentiment, but the extravagant kimono and careful hairstyles were just another show to sell you off like a piece of property to some other high status family.

Akemi Shiba has always worked for your family. When your mother had passed, she’d become your primary caretaker. Your father had done very little to support you.

Then again, emotional parts of your relationship had always been lacking.

The giggles of your younger sisters drew your attention. They ran into the room and you just lowered your head. You were merely a year older, but they looked far more desirable for marriage.

Aio and Ai Shikimori. They were tall, slender and beautiful. Something any husband wanted from a wife.

At least that’s what they kept saying. All your life, all that was ever spoken was marriage.

You weren’t opposed to the idea, at least you hadn’t been when you were a child. Your mother told tales of romance, and true love, family.

When she died that had all changed and it became nothing more than a contract for wealth. Of course you tried to keep a positive outlook. You still wanted to marry someone, just not for the sake of status or wealth.

“Tou-san really likes wasting his time. Does he really think he can find someone that will marry you?” Ai spoke.

“Exactly, all you do is run around training like some kind of brute. Oka-san would be disgusted.” Aio added.

Akemi looked over at you, trying to offer reassurance, but all you could do was smile.

“Gomen.”

You’d long stop trying to combat their words. Maybe it was the poison from your father, but they were not much better than him. All you ever wanted was to pursue your hopes, your dreams, outside of that of a wife. But it was forbidden.

Opposing marriage was the same as treason, at least in a noble family. You had no choices, no will, no say in the matter of anything unless it revolved around choosing a husband who could further advance the Shikimori name.

When they both moved to your side, helping you to your feet, you had to admit you were suspicious.

“Tou-san has finally found a husband willing to marry you.” Aio grins.

The contradiction of their earlier words is concerning.

They took either of your arms, guiding you out the door. Akemi looked worried, but there wasn’t much she could do. You followed them into the main room, and when you spotted your father, you bowed your head. He barely gave you a glance, or anything that wasn’t associated with a scowl.

“We’ve found you a match. You will marry him and fulfill all your duties. That includes the bearing of children.”

Your eyes moved to your guest, and the sight of the older man made you freeze in place. The smiles from your sisters were wide.

He stood, gray hair noticeable, body so wrinkled you were surprised he was able to move. His expression was vile. All you wanted to do was run and you were just standing next to him. How were you expected to lay with him?

“What a beautiful bride you will be.”

His eyes ran over your body and your blood went cold. For a moment you thought it was a joke, some kind of ruse, but your father’s expression held absolution and your sisters just continued to giggle softly in the background.

“Goro Feng is one of the eldest in his family. He is regarded in the highest respect. Your wedding will be set in the spring and you are expected to produce heirs. Both sons. You will do as he wishes and continue to represent our family. Do you understand?”

You wanted to say something, anything, but words would not form. All you could do was nod.

After the official arrangements were made, you were dismissed to your room. Akemi had been there, her son behind her with a basket of your washed clothing. Your eyes were trained at your feet.

“Hey princess, why the long face?”

Akemi smacked his shoulder.

“Danuja! I’ve told you not to address the (Y/N)-sama so casually!” She scolded. Usually you had a retort to his question, but you just felt sick to your stomach.

“Akemi.”

The sound of your father’s voice made them both stiffen. In a matter of seconds they bowed and he just gave a look. Nothing else needed to be said. They were both exiting the room, and your father entered, followed by both your sisters.

“I hope you understand how important this arrangement is. You have no right to refuse.”

Your lips quivered.

“T-Tou-san…could you have not at least found someone my age that I could…that I could love..”

Your voice was pleading, and when you looked up at him, all he did was glare. There was nothing but malice in his gaze.

“I could have gotten you a younger husband, but why should I make you comfortable when all you’ve done is rebel against me.”

Your eyes widen in shock.

It must be a lie. There is no way that your own flesh and blood would do something so hateful, so horrible.

“You’ve soiled our name with your brutish antics and constant ruffian behavior. Your actions have consequences. You will submit to him without complaint. This is your duty.”

You couldn't believe that your own father would do something so cruel.

“What’s so wrong about getting married. You’re so selfish. At least he has all of his teeth.” Ai spoke.

Both your sisters start laughing, and there isn’t much you can say.

Just like that, they were walking out the door.

Maybe it was at that point you realize it. They didn’t care much for what would happen to you. There’s a part of you that wonders how someone as kind as your mother had married someone so cold.

Unfeeling.

Unloving.

Maybe she’d been in a similar situation.

Now you feel as though death was more of a gift than a tragedy. Because if she’d indeed experience the same, then leaving this world might have been the only grace she ever got in life.

At that very moment, the reality of your life was right there in front of you.

That night, it was obvious what you had to do. There was only one choice.

Possible the first one you’d ever be able to make for yourself.

Your intention was to run. With the dark clothing around your body, and the makeshift bag on your back, you were ready. Your eyes moved to the window and you took a step.

“(Y/N)-sama!!”

The yell made you flinch, and the women stood at the door, eyes wide in fear. Your eyes shook as you stared back at her.

“Akemi..”

There was no way for you to make it look like anything different than an escape. She’d seen you sneak off to train countless times, but you’d never left with a bag. You expected her to yell, call for the guards, or worse, your father, but instead she raced to your side, hugging you desperately.

“Please reconsider (L/N)-sama, you cannot survive out there!! There are so many threats. You’ll die!!”

She sounded panicked, devastated at the idea of you going out there. For the first time in years, someone was worried about your wellbeing and it wasn’t solely because of your duty to marry. You would have cried had you not used up all your tears long ago.

“I would rather die out there, than stay with these people who call themselves my family.”

It was a harsh truth. Akemi pulled away shakily, and all you could offer to comfort her was a smile.

“Thank you for everything. Kemi-san.”

You bowed, and without another word, you moved to the window, jumping out.

You grunted, picking yourself up off the ground. The call of another reaper drew your attention. Increased activity in the Rukongai isn’t anything new.

You were however not expecting half a dozen hollows. You’d managed to subdue two, and your friends had gotten a few. But it didn’t happen without injury. Despite your strength, there were still a lot of factors.

Like the speed of this hollow that seemed to rival that of a captain’s. You had just barely avoided a beam. The slip up had caused one to get in a cheap shot. Now you’re still facing two significantly huge hollows and your shoulder is bleeding profusely from where the beast had bit you.

Forcing your blade into the ground, you did your best to stay upright.

“Shit.”

Your vision was going in and out. For a moment you’re able to focus just enough to spot a figure in the trees ahead.

“A…reaper..”

It couldn’t be. He’s not with the rest, and there’s a flash of a smile on his lips.

You could vaguely hear another reaper calling, but his voice was faint. You groan at the flash of pain that runs through your body.

“Watch out!!”

All you could get yourself to do was prepare for the attack. The very real enemy coming for you at incredible speed was anticipated. You lifted your sword, or tried to. You prepared for it, the pain, but you were lifted off the ground and the soft hold of your protector was confusing. When you opened your eyes, you stared.

“T-Taicho..”

He was holding you to his chest with one hand, his sword drawn with the other. The mass of flower petals were all you saw. Just like that the space was encased, and all you could hear was the cry of the remaining hollows as they were easily subdued.

The second his blade returned to normal, the area was cleared. The reapers present looked a bit relieved. Byakuya lowered his blade, looking down at you.

“You were reckless.”

You could just offer a weak smile.

“Gomen…Taich..”

Your head dropped to the side, and before the others could panic, he was gone, most likely to the fourth squad.

~

“Unohana-taicho, we have a few more from the Rukongai.”

Isane rolled up her sleeves as some of the squad members continued to guide injured reapers into the room. She was dispersing people as she saw fit. Thankfully only a handful of reapers had truly been hurt. So far there hadn’t been any detrimental wounds.

A body landed within the space, and when she lifted her head, she saw the blood. Both on the injured reapers' robes, as well as her savior. Byakuya’s eyes were resolute. Hanataro seemed startled.

“(Y/N)-san..”

Your eyes were closed and all he could process was the amount of blood.

“Place her over here.” Unohana instructed.

Byakuya followed to the empty bed, placing you gently down. Your body sank against the mattress.

“Hanataro, we need some washcloths and a new set of clean robes immediately. “

He was still, just watching the scene in fear.

“Hanataro.”

This time her tone knocked him out of it, and he was nodding.

“Y-Yes Taicho!”

He was off without a second thought, and Unohana raised her hands, the familiar glow present. Byakuya sheathed his blade, staring down at your form. Unohana sighed when she saw that the wounds hadn’t been as deep as she initially thought.

With a soft smile, she spoke.

“Her wounds are not as bad as I anticipated. With any luck she should make a full recovery within a few days.”

Byakuya was relieved to say the least.

“It was nice of you to look out for her.”

“She is my subordinate.”

He said it like that explained everything. Unohana merely released a soft laugh, and the little sound you made drew both their attention.

Your eyes began to open slowly, and you looked up.

“Kuchiki..taicho..?”

Your words were a bit slurred, and Unohana sent you a smile.

“Try not to move (Y/N)-san. Everything is under control. You should rest.”

Your brows were knitted.

“Taicho is so nice..you always protect me Taicho…I really like working for Taicho..”

You were just muttering and Unohana sent a look at Byakuya.

“Oh my, it seems she’s become quite honest.”

She was teasing, but he paid no mind.

“Taicho’s hair is so pretty….just like his zanpaktou… so handsome..” Your smile was warm, and his eyes widened just a fraction before he turned abruptly.

“It seems you have it all handled. I’ll be taking my leave.”

He was gone before she could respond, and Hanataro returned, relieved when he saw your eyes were open.

“(Y/N)-san!”

He raced to your side with the items in his hands. Your little smile was a bit puzzling to him.

“Taicho’s arms are so warm..”

You mumbled some other words and Hanataro turned to Unohana for an explanation. She just gave a grin.

“Even someone as prideful as him can get bashful. How cute.”

Rukia seemed overall happy that the both of you visited and Ichigo promised to keep an eye out in case anything else happened.

So there was really nothing else that could be done.

The next few days were a bit uneventful.

Maybe that’s why you’d retired to your quarters a bit earlier that evening. The intention was just to take a nap. Sliding your zanpakuto off your waist, you were now laying on your futon. It didn’t take long to drift off.

Maybe your dreams would give you a bit of relief. At least for the time being.

Sleep…

“What’s a soul reaper?” The girl asked.

“They are protectors. When I’m older I’ll be one just like my grandfather.” The boy declared.

“That sounds so cool. I-I want to be one too!!” She cheered.

“Well maybe when you get into the academy we can train together. How does that sound?” He advised.

“I’d really like that!!”

Blinking your eyes awake, you stare at the ceiling.

“A new dream…”

You vaguely remember the discussion. You just can’t seem to place the voice or the face of the other person.

Nevertheless, it’s clear that you won’t be getting any sleep. It seems reasonable to just find a way to occupy your time. Ultimately you decided to head back to the sixth division to make yourself useful. You spot Renji who’s seated at his desk that’s adjacent to Byakuya’s. There’s a stack of paperwork. You grin.

“Abarai-san, so you do complete paperwork after all.”

“Of course I do!!” He fires with a glare.

You just laugh it off. Byakuya’s seat is empty so you have to ask.

“Where’s Taicho?”

“He’s at the manor.”

“Hai, I’ll head over. Unless you need me for anything Fukutaichou~.”

Your teasing tone makes a pulse form on his head.

“Just get out of here!!”

Giggling, you head out the door. It’s fun to mess with him sometimes. Taking off to the manor, you find yourself wondering about the dream. This one wasn’t particularly unpleasant. It was almost comforting. You smile to yourself, jumping down from the building when you land at the entrance of his manor.

The guards nod at you as you head inside. You’ve been here enough times to know where he might be. There’s a beautiful cherry blossom tree at the back of his home, along with a koi pond he’s very fond of.

You still remember the encounter with Yachiru. It was always humorous to see his reactions when the pink haired reaper was around. Your feet tap against the wooden floors and you find him seated at the back, eyes trained ahead.

“Taicho.”

You bow, even though he doesn’t turn to see, right before you take a seat.

“Did you not return to your quarters to rest?” He asks.

“Ah, I did. But I guess my body is a bit wired right now. With the recent report of strange activity it's probably best if I remain vigilant. “

He casually looks in your direction and you offer a smile.

“Taicho, recently I’ve been reminiscing and I remembered my days in the academy. It sort of reminded me of when we first met in the Rukongai. It’s been such a long time that you probably don-”

“I remember.”

You pause, watching him curiously.

“You do?”

“Yes. You were covered in bruises.”

You laugh a bit bashfully.

“I wasn’t much of a reaper back then.” You joke.

“You were just as much a reaper as anyone within the Gotei 13.”

That statement catches you by surprise.

“You were defending another soul, even though you were frightened. I was there after the incident, but I saw the fear in your eyes, but you still fought. Regardless of your standing at the time, it was the first I’d seen a soul with such strength that you displayed. Even if your swordsmanship was lacking.”

You’re not sure what to say. You didn’t think he would remember such a thing. Byakuya is rarely the sentimental type. At least you don’t think so. It’s easier to read him when Rukia is around. He seems more honest, even if his words don’t reflect it. But the fact that he not only recognized your ability, both then, and even now, it’s heartwarming. You can’t help but smile, a flush on your cheeks.

“T-Thank you Taicho!!”

You bow, hands in your lap, somewhat crouched.

“You do not have to keep thanking me. It’s the truth.”

Raising, you nod vigorously.

“Of course!”

You’re still beaming.

It’s always nice to get praised.

Byakuya directs his gaze back ahead, contemplating.

“Back at the shop, she was concerned. Now she’s unable to rest.”

He lectures himself to remain vigilant as well. Kisuke was a fool at times, but he’s undoubtedly the smartest, maybe a close second to Kurotsuchi. They’re both great strategists. A skill that should never be overlooked.

You still seem to be sprouting flowers around you when he chances a look over. It’s at that moment that he realizes.

“(Y/N)-chan!!”

You smile at Hanataro who’s waving aggressively in your direction.

Easy days like this are appreciated.

You’d asked to meet up with him to grab some items for your trip to the word of the living. The pills he carries are good for when you’re in a bind.

You drop right in front of him and he holds out the small pouch.

“Please be safe (Y/N)-chan, the world of the living can be scary too.”

He’s still the same old sweet guy.

“I will, I promise.”

You give one last smile before you take off. Byakuya is waiting for you at the entrance. It’s not unheard of for him to go on trips. Rukia is in Karakura Town with Ichigo, so you guess that’s why he’s agreed to follow on such a lower level mission. Hollow activity isn’t anything new. But there’s also the meeting with Kisuke that’s good for keeping tabs on any significant changes.

The trip there isn’t long. He’s already waiting to step through the Senkaimon. You catch sight of his captain’s cloak before you truly see him. His back is turned, and when you land at his side, he looks down. The huge door has always been a marvel to you, regardless of how many times you’ve seen it. You haven’t been to the world of the living enough times to ever not be in awe of its differences.

“Are you ready?”

“Hai.”

He turns back and those huge maroon doors open, the light illuminating the entire area.

The journey between your world and theirs might be the distraction you need. As your feet move through the space, you keep your eyes forward.

“What does it mean?”

There must be a reason that these memories have been plaguing you. You haven’t thought about your past in what feels like centuries. You wish you could stop thinking about it, or banish the idea that something bad is coming, about to happen. It’s that lingering sense at the very back or mind.

“(L/N)-san.”

You blink, surprised. You’ve already stepped into the world of the living and you hadn’t even noticed.

“Ah, we’re here.”

He glances at you, but says nothing.

“We must see Kisuke.”

You nod.

“Alright Taicho. We should probably get go-”

The distinct cry of a hollow draws your attention. The shift in spiritual pressure is not lost on you.

“Taicho.”

“Yes.”

Nothing else is said, you both take off in the direction of the disturbance.

Byakuya is much faster, not that you’re surprised. Keeping up with him has always been a challenge. But you’re doing pretty good considering that he’s a prodigy. You both end up a few miles ahead. You’re in the air and the sight of the bigger hollow is a bit of a shock. You notice the familiar head of orange that joins right at Byakuya’s side.

“Kurosaki-san.” You smile at him.

When you give him a once over you realize that he has a few scratches on his cheek.

“There were two over at the clinic. I’m not sure what’s drawing them in.” Ichigo reports gripping his sword.

“Understood. (L/N)-san.” Byakuya states.

“Hai taicho!”

You charge forward and Ichigo seems a bit shocked.

“A-Are you going to let her handle it on her own!” Ichigo protests.

He’s about to jump in.

“You shouldn’t underestimate others Kurosaki.”

Ichigo pauses, a bit confused. It’s not that he thinks you’re defenseless. He’s never really seen you in battle, but the hollow is a bit bigger than most. Even with his abilities taking on the two earlier still took a bit of effort.

Ichigo expects you to at least draw your blade, but instead you clench your fist, and when the hollow takes a swing, your fist connects with the palm of its hand.

At first there is no change, but then he hears it, what sounds like bone cracking, then the noticeable wave of wind that bursts behind the hollow is a shock. Ichigo lifts a hand to cover his face at the residual shock wave, and when he moves his hand, there is a crack on the hollow’s mask.

He’s stunned.

“But she..she didn’t even touch its face..”

Byakuya nods.

In a matter of seconds, those small cracks turn into bigger breaks and just like that, the white is falling away and its body is beginning to disintegrate right before his eyes.

It’s gone in under a minute. Just like that you’re back at Byakuya’s side.

“I don’t sense anymore in the area. We should probably head right to Urahara-san, Taicho.”

Byakuya nods and Ichigo is still gaping as he points at you.

“W-What kind of crazy strength is that!!”

Sado is the only one he knows that displays such raw physical strength.

You blink, then lift a hand, rubbing your neck.

“Ah, it’s nothing really. To be honest I’m not much of a swordsman. I’m better now, but back in the academy I was pretty pathetic.”

You begin laughing and Ichigo’s eyes just twitch.

“T-That’s probably for the best.”

He can only imagine the damage you would do if you were at his level, or Byakuya’s.

“It’s time to leave.” Byakuya states. Just like that he leaves, and you follow behind. Ichigo flinches.

“Oii! Wait for me!!”

The squeals were the only indication you needed. Whenever new reapers came in this is typically how it went. They’d gush over the captains.

Especially him.

At this point you should expect it. Standing at attention, you watch as the captains walk pass. Truthfully you admire their strength. Your ultimate goal was to someday obtain such a position. It was far-fetched, but you couldn’t help it.

There’s a powerful aura that seems to emit from simply their presence. Your eyes follow every movement. When they connect with a pair of steel gray hues, your body froze. It’s just a glance, nothing more, but it holds much more than you expected. You break eye contact hurriedly, looking down at your feet, flustered.

“What the hell am I doing..”

Why the hell would you look directly at him?

It felt quite the same as declaring a love confession. You huff, agitated and you keep your eyes planted down for the rest of the time that they are there. Once it’s finally over, you feel as though you can finally breathe easy. The lieutenants begin ushering the reapers to their designated squads and you follow as people begin to divide up.

The rest of the week is preparation and training. You’re grateful that you’re a member of the thirteenth squad. Being as far away from Byakuya was ideal. He’s too much of a distraction. You know it’s wrong to harbor any feelings for him. He’s emotionally detached. His views are of duty and protection of the integrity of the Soul Society. Even though that’s the case, you can’t help it. You’d seen him in battle one time and you haven’t been able to get over how effortlessly extraordinary he is.

“This is aggravating.”

Jushiro chuckles and you straighten, flushing. You hadn’t realized that you’d been talking to yourself. You’ve been doing that a lot.

“Is there a reason you are aggravated (Y/N)-san?”

You scratch your head with a laugh.

“I-I was just rambling, it’s nothing really.”

You hope that’s enough for him to drop the topic. There’s a part of you that wonders why you couldn’t have fallen for someone like him. Even if he had rejected you, he probably would have done it so nicely you would end up apologizing. You laugh internally at your thoughts and Jushiro gives you a curious look.

“Ukitake-taicho, is Rukia-san back yet?”

“Ah, no she hasn’t returned. If I remember correctly she should be coming in a few weeks. The head captain has asked that she stay close to Ichigo for the time being to ensure his powers have fully returned.”

“That sounds so cool! Rukia-san always gets the cool missions.” You mumble.

“Given her relationship with Ichigo, I believe the head captain was just trying to avoid the inevitable. Abarai-san has a bad habit of getting into fights when he’s there. He wanted to avoid damage to the town.” You giggle.

“I suppose you are right.”

It’s funny to watch the way they bicker, you’ll admit that. Renji would never say it, but he respects Ichigo. You would too if you’d survived the things he’d been through.

“Do you think that-”

The fluttering of black and crimson wings startles you.

“Ukitake-taicho, there is hollow activity in the tenth squad.”

The alert makes you clench your teeth. It’s not a shock that hollow activity is increasing. With the recent shift in energy, the head captain has accounted for just about everything.

You both take off without so much as another word. There’s a part of you that expects chaos when you land. But Jushiro is wearing the same comical expression at the sight before you.

“We got them Taicho!!”

“Take that stupid hollows!!

“Leave some for me!” Kenpachi calls.

There was obviously no need for cavalry, because members of squad eleven are handling the distress call.

If anything you feel a bit sorry for the hollows. A few of them appear to be running for their lives. One is grabbed by the leg, and you sweatdrop when Kenpachi grins down at the very large beast.

“Where do you think you’re going?”

It’s sweating profusely. All he does is swing his hand. It’s flying into the air. You know he intends to go after it. At least you think he does. There’s nothing but a glowing light in the distance like a star of its descent into another world.

“Kenny you threw it too far, he’s gone.” Yachiru comments.

“Damn.” He looks unaffected and you just sigh.

“I don’t think our services are needed.” Jushiro sheaths his blade and you do the same.

“We should do a sweep of the squads around to ensure no others have breached.”

You nod.

Jushiro goes left and you go right.

With your eyes fixed ahead, you’re ready for anything. You’re jumping from building to building, but you don’t see a thing. You’re a bit relieved that there isn’t any damage. At least none that the hollows made. Kenpachi is definitely going to leave a mess wherever he goes.

By the time you make it to the sixth squad you realize that the area is clear. You intend to keep going straight up to the first, but the pink petal drifts into your line of vision and you turn your head. Your eyes widen when you spot him. He’s standing next to a tree and the entire atmosphere feels as though it has changed. Your arms drop slowly and your feet touch the ground quietly.

All he’s doing is standing there. You’re possibly fifty feet away at best, but you can’t stop staring.

He just looks so..

“Beautiful..”

Apparently you said that aloud. His head turns and once again you’re completely frozen. That harsh gaze is fixed on you. You should say something, inform him that you’re only doing a patrol. Words refuse to form and when he steps away from the blossom tree, your heart is going much faster than it has ever gone.

Even in battle.

His steps seem to echo, and you want to swallow, but you can’t. None of your usual body functions are working.

He’s right before you and he stops.

“Were you referring to me.”

He’s talking to you, he must be. But you can’t formulate a sentence, much less respond.

“I asked you a question.”

You flinch and bow fully. It’s an instinct.

“G-Gomen!!”

Why are you even apologizing, it’s not like you’ve done anything wrong. You just feel like you have.

“I-I was just doing a sweep for hollow activity. I didn’t mean to interrupt.”

You’re almost afraid to lift your head.

“You said that I was beautiful.”

The statement made your eyes widen. You feel absolutely embarrassed.

“Gomen!!”

That’s all you can get yourself to say at this point.

“Are you so superior that you refuse to meet my gaze.”

Just the insinuation makes you panic.

You jolt upright.

“O-Of course not Kuchiki-taicho I-”

Your words come to a stop, because you expect his eyes to hold irritation, or at the very least anger for saying what you did. Yet, his expression looks almost…soft..

How could such a stoic person look so effortlessly attractive?

“I was right, you are beautiful..”

The slight change in his eyes alerts you that you’ve once again opened your big mouth and blurted out something that should never leave your lips. Your face heats up immediately as you begin to stutter.

This is mortifying.

“G-G-Gomen!!”

He says nothing. He just watches you as if trying to make an assessment. Without so much as another word, he turns.

“Let’s go.”

“G-Go? G-Go where?”

He just glances back at you, and a pleasant shiver rushes up your spine.

“Y-Yes Kuchiki-taicho!”

His hand lifts when he finally grounds his feet, skidding to a stop. When he looks over, your body is levitating.

Renji and Rukia can only stare.

Byakuya turns slowly, stunned when he sees your once lifeless body upright.

Danuja’s eyes widened at the scene.

He can barely process what he’s seeing because it couldn’t be…

“Emiko-sama..”

He was hard to believe. He truly thought it was her. For a brief moment he felt guilt, but it was gone in a second.

His jaw is clenched tightly.

He expected injury, pain, at least some indication of your previous detrimental circumstances. But your robes were beating against the wind, and when he had a better visual, he was stunned at your attire. You were now wearing a lengthy pink floral patterned kimono, similar to what he’d seen you wear countless times at your old manor. So elegant, a vision of beauty.

Your sword is drawn, but it’s not the blade it was before. It has grown significantly in size and there’s a similar pink string attached at the base of your blade. It has expanded at least ten times the size it was before, and your blade’s hilt has changed to a more curved angle.

Your hair is now a startling fiery red.

Your eyes look hollow of any emotion, and the subtle glow that is emitting from your body isn’t lost on him. Even after the wind has dissipated, your robes are still swaying.

“This shouldn’t be possible, she was barely conscious, so how did she activate Bankai? Especially in that state.”

He didn’t like this.

“I need a distraction.”

He snapped his fingers and the large amount of hollows had them once again bracing for battle. Ichigo and Byakuya prepared for the worst, but before they could make a move, the mass of red spears stopped them cold.

Each hollow present had one going right through its head.

Danuja’s eyes widened in fear.

“T-That’s impossible!!”

Their bodies were fading out, and Ichigo looked around, just as astonished.

Renji was still keeping at a distance, protecting Rukia.

“She..she killed all of them…”

Ichigo muttered.

Byakuya’s eyes moved in your direction. He could still see the blood from your earlier wounds, but you looked normal. If he could say that.

Your irises were glowing as blue as the rest of your body.

“(Y/N)...”

He didn’t like this.

Usually Bankai was activated as a means to control the battle, the fact that you were close to death wasn’t exactly uncommon. This isn’t the first time any other reaper has been in such a position. It’s the lack of reaction that worries him.

He’s more than grateful that your wounds seem to have healed themselves. But to what extent has this altered your consciousness or perception of reality. Your only focus seems to be Danuja, and the attack of ruby spears that previously appeared had vanished just as quickly. They seemed like an extension of your now colored hair which has also grown in similar length to your robes.

Danuja looks agitated, and he charges at you angrily.

His jaw is clenched tightly, and when he disappears, Byakuya is ready to defend, but there seems to be no need. You swipe your blade at the back of you, both hands holding the hilt. At first glance they don’t see a thing. It looks like you’re just attacking the air. But in a matter of seconds, all that’s seen is a diagonal line of blood, and then his body appears.

Now visible, Danuja lets out a strangled gasp, and the thorns that he had summoned before surround his body before they deteriorate very similar to the way the hollows had. You look completely unaffected, and he looks ready for another blow from your sword, but you clenched your fist this time and he doesn’t have a chance to react before you're mere inches away from him. Your knuckles connect to his jaw and it sounds like a bomb has gone off. Ichigo is startled, along with everyone else.

Danuja’s body goes barrelling to the ground at a speed that is alarming. When his body connects with the ground, the impact echoes, lifting a significant amount of dirt and causing a mass of debris.

Your body is gone again, and Byakuya follows, along with Ichigo.

Danuja grunts in pain. There’s a crater the size of a building and his body is wedged into the ground. His jaw was swollen, which was a compliment if anything given the force of the blow you delivered.

“She completely removed the connected thorns. I..I can’t get reinforcements.”

That seemed like the least of his problems at the moment. Even if he’d managed to get more hollows, he would still need a separate plan of attack. After what you’d done the first time, he would have a few seconds to make a move. As it stood, even an hour would do him no good.

“I can’t move..”

He’d never experience strength like that before. When he saw you land a few feet before him, he swallowed.

“I…I underestimated you.”

He didn’t expect a reaction.

He could tell by the emptiness of your expression that you were far gone. Your brain must have only been able to process him as the enemy before you were able to use your Bankai. It’s clear that you’re going on pure adrenaline.

He’s not sure what’s more terrifying. The fact that you’re this powerful, partially conscious, or that you could have killed him ten times over if you’d actually been in a normal state of mind when you’re Bankai activated.

At this point, he accepts his faith.

If by some miracle you didn’t kill him, the other reapers would surely have him executed for what he’s tried.

You were now standing right before him, and when you lifted your blade, he closed his eyes, preparing for it. But the brief brush of air changed his focus. He opened his eyes just in time to see Byakuya grab your wrist. You were looking at him, hand still lifted. There was nothing warm or inviting about your eyes.

“(Y/N).”

There was no reaction to your name, but no further resistance or attack. You’re stronger, he knows that. If you were to land one of those blows on him, surely he would not be in much better shape than Danuja, but he knows you. If you truly were gone, you would not have cared for who you were attacking right now.

Everyone would be an enemy.

Ichigo, Renji and Rukia land.

All watching.

“He must die.”

Your tone sounded so casual and Ichigo’s brows furrowed, preparing for just about anything.

“Our duty was to apprehend the intruder. There’s no need for added action. He is subdued. Release your Bankai.”

“I refuse.”

You pulled back your wrist, adjusting your stance and Byakuya did the same.

“The second he aimed his attack at my pride, he guaranteed his death.”

Byakuya was a bit startled, because he’d once uttered those very words for Rukia. Your eyes looked resolute, unshakeable, yet your hand, it wasn’t steady. Byakuya could see it, your hesitance. They’d all been reacting under the assumption that you weren’t conscious, in control of your actions, but it was the complete opposite.

Byakuya stepped to the side, and Ichigo’s eyes widened.

“W-What the hell are you doing!!”

He flash stepped, but Byakuya was quicker, blocking his way.

“Stand down, Kurosaki.”

Ichigo just glared.

“You’re going to let her kill him in cold blood!!”

Renji and Rukia seemed worried about the same. You stepped over to Danuja, and Ichigo anticipated it, but you did nothing. Your eyes still held a level of emptiness, but his eyes shifted to your hands, and when he saw the tremors, his shoulders dropped slowly, expression evening out in realization. Byakuya turned around, now facing in your direction. You were standing over Danuja, but you didn’t move, couldn’t move.

Gritting your teeth, your head lowered, and the changes to your attire and hair seemed to almost crystallize right before their eyes as it all faded out. The transition sounded like ice breaking, and just like that, both your hands dropped at your sides, zanpakuto hitting the ground as your knees buckled. Byakuya was right next to you in an instant, catching you midfall.

All you could do was look up at him, eyes shaking.

He could still see the holes in your black robes, but the injuries were gone. Relief washed over him, and you looked about ready to plead your case.

“I-”

He shook his head, lifting you into his arms.