[Soul Society Arc] Part 100: Going Home with a Gift

# Seireitei - August 12th #

During their stay in the Soul Society, the young ones became familiar figures among the shinigamis.

Ichigo had become a familiar face in the 11th Division, often visiting to engage in casual conversations and observe the intense training sessions. However, he strategically left his zanpakutō with the 4th Division, providing a convenient excuse for avoiding any direct sparring sessions with Captain Zaraki.

Orihime, dividing her time between aiding the 4th Division's patients and exploring, found an unexpected companion in Lieutenant Matsumoto. Their shared eccentricities, especially in culinary preferences, created an unusual but genuine bond.

Tatsuki, defying her need for rest after the intense battle with Captain Soi Fon, dedicated herself to rigorous training within the 2nd Division. The occasional sparring sessions with Soi Fon, often at the playful insistence of Yoruichi, added an interesting dynamic to her routine.

Chad continued his occasional visits to the 7th Division, but he never lingered for an extended period in the Seireitei. His preference was to journey to the Rukongai, fulfilling his promise to visit the child Yūichi Shibata.

Uryū dedicated the majority of his days to the meticulous craft of sewing. His skilled hands worked tirelessly, creating garments for the female members of the 4th Division.

During these days, Yato found himself gravitating toward the places where his friends usually gathered, with the notable exceptions of Ichigo and Tatsuki. Dealing with Soi Fon's stern demeanor or Zaraki's unpredictable behavior wasn't on Yato's agenda. This led him to spend more time in Orihime's vicinity, unintentionally subjecting himself to the antics of Lieutenant Matsumoto whenever she indulged in sake sessions with Lieutenants Hisagi and Kira.

Thanks to these encounters, Yato had the opportunity to meet Captain Hitsugaya and Captain Kyōraku. Hitsugaya harbored no ill feelings towards Yato; in fact, the young captain was grateful since Yato played a crucial role in preventing Hinamori from falling into a coma. Captain Kyōraku occasionally shirked his duties to join Matsumoto, Hisagi, and Kira for a drink.

Since Yato refrained from drinking, he often found himself sharing tea with Captain Hitsugaya. Together, they observed the lively chaos caused by Matsumoto, Hisagi, and Kira during their sake-filled gatherings.

# 4th Division Barracks, General Medical Station – First Floor: Shinigami Uniform Sewing Room #

After receiving the news that the Senkaimon would be ready to take them home, Yato, Tatsuki, Orihime, and Chad gather where Uryū was sewing.

The Quincy was sewing some clothes for their peers since most had either had their clothes torn or simply lost them somewhere, causing everyone, except Yato, to have to wear the black Shihakushō of the shinigami.

Tatsuki: "Where the hell is Ichigo?" - She asked with crossed arms.

Yato: "Probably at the 11th Division." - He casually replied.

Uryū: "Done! Finished everyone's clothes." - He exclaimed while handing the respective clothes to Chad, Orihime, and Tatsuki, and it didn't take long for them to notice some changes in their attire.

Chad: "The design is a bit different..." - He commented, noticing that unlike his old shirt, which had a single linear pattern, it now featured both vertical and horizontal lines, forming a cross.

Uryū: "I added my personal touch." - He proudly commented while handing Inoue's clothes. - "This is yours, Inoue-san. I didn't have any dyes to work with, so... I used lace instead. And I added little rosettes at the bottom."

Orihime: "It's... kinda cute." - She checked after stepping away to change.

Uryū: "This one's for you, Arisawa-san." - He handed Tatsuki a white Gi, which at first glance seemed like a typical one he would wear. However, upon closer inspection, she noticed a distinctive alteration.

Tatsuki, examining the Gi, raised an eyebrow.

Tatsuki: "I don't recall my Gi having this cross on the back." - She remarked, a hint of confusion in her voice.

Uryū: "I thought it would suit your style. A little extra flair, you know?" - He responded with a smirk.

As everyone changed into their newly tailored outfits, Chad casually strolled over to Yato.

Chad: "Hm... I meant to ask this earlier, but..." - He turned his head towards the corner of the room, where a woman sat with an impassive expression, silently observing the group's interactions. - "Who is she...?"

Yato glanced at Nemu, who had maintained her stoic presence since the gathering began.

Yato: "I think she adopted me as her dad." - He nonchalantly remarked, his words drawing quizzical expressions from both Chad and Tatsuki.

Tatsuki: "Adopted you as her dad? Seriously?" - She asked with a raised eyebrow.

Yato nonchalantly brushed off the situation, and in the midst of it, Uryū carefully picked up a dress he had just completed.

Uryū: "I make this dress for Kuchiki-san, for when we return to the world of the living."

Orihime: "It's absolutely gorgeous!" - She exclaimed, her eyes lighting up as she admired the intricate details of the dress.

Chad: "Ishida...I think you're better at making woman's clothes." - He said with a bemused expression.

Yato, with a mischievous grin, couldn't resist a playful comment.

Yato: "Looks like Ishida-san doesn't see you as a woman..." - He whispered to Tatsuki in a teasing tone.

Tatsuki, not one to let a remark slide, shot back a warning.

Tatsuki: "Careful, or both you and him might get a beating..." - She threatened, crossing her arms with a challenging glare.

Meanwhile, Orihime, caught up in the excitement of the moment, chimed in with enthusiasm.

Orihime: "I have to show this dress to Kuchiki-san!" - Her eyes sparkled with anticipation as she envisioned Rukia's reaction.

Observing Orihime's bubbling enthusiasm and her imminent sprint to share the dress with Rukia, Yato intervened.

Yato: "Inoue-san, if you're on the lookout for Rukia, she's likely over at Kūkaku's place. Seems she's got some business there, but you can head over and grab Ichigo in the meantime."

Orihime: "You're right!" - She handed the dress to Yato, her eyes sparkling with eagerness. - "I'll give Kurosaki-kun a heads up and check if he needs any outfits too!" - Orihime dashed towards the door.

Uryū: "I think there's not enough material left to make another piece of clothing..." - He muttered.

A comical sweat drop appeared on Chad's head, having overheard Uryū's comment, and he turned his attention to a pile of leftover fabrics on the table.

Yato: "What's the deal with you and Ichigo anyway?" - He asked, genuinely curious.

Uryū: "Don't speak as if I'm a child." - His demeanor was composed yet firm as He adjust his glasses with a hint of annoyance, clarified his stance.

Yato, with a teasing smirk, couldn't resist adding a playful jab.

Yato: "I'd stop if you stopped acting like one..." - He grinned.

Yato's comment elicited laughter from Tatsuki, and soon the group resumed their casual conversation.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Ichigo and Inoue seamlessly joined the gathering. When Yato mentioned his plan to check if Rukia was still at Kūkaku's house, the group, now complete, unanimously decided to tag along.

When the group arrived at Kūkaku's residence, they witnessed a scene with Rukia facing the woman, seemingly on the receiving end of a scolding. However, as Kūkaku spotted the approaching group, her stern expression quickly transformed into enthusiasm.

Kūkaku: "Finally, you guys show up!" - She smirked. - "You're leaving tomorrow, right? How about staying for dinner?"

Ichigo: "No, thanks, we–" - his response was abruptly halted by an unexpected punch from Kūkaku.

Tatsuki: "Nice punch." - She commented with an impressed smirk and Yato couldn't help but chuckle in agreement.

Kūkaku: "You want me to repeat myself?!" - her irritation palpable in the air.

Orihime wasted no time, her steps light and eager, as she retrieved the dress left in Yato's care and dashed over to Rukia to deliver it.

Yato, observing the exchange, speculated that Rukia might be considering staying in the Soul Society after their departure. Sensing it wasn't the right time to broach the topic, he kept quiet.

The dinner at Kūkaku's house was a lively affair, filled with laughter, shared stories, and the clinking of glasses. The playful banter between Ichigo and Ganju added an extra layer of amusement, drawing smiles from everyone.

As the night wore on, and the others retired to sleep, Yato decided to take a quiet stroll. Outside the house, he paused, savoring the tranquility of the night and the refreshing breeze.

Rukia: "Are you okay?" - Heard suddenly. Rukia, noticing Yato's solitary contemplation, approached him and took a seat beside him. She looked at him intently, her concern evident in her eyes.

Yato, feeling the weight of Rukia's concern, couldn't help but offer a small, reassuring smile. He glanced at the night sky, its expanse adorned with shimmering stars.

Yato: "Just taking in the moment, you know? It's been quite a journey."

Rukia, however, saw through the facade. She nudged him gently.

Rukia: "You can't fool me, Yato. I can tell something's been bothering you."

Yato: "Guess I can't hide much from you, huh? It's just... a lot on my mind lately." - He sighed, appreciating Rukia's perceptiveness.

Rukia: "It's hard to keep secrets when we can access each other's inner worlds, isn't it?" - She responded with a small smile.

Yato and Rukia sat in a companionable silence. The twinkling stars above seemed to reflect the quiet understanding between them, words unnecessary in the embrace of the tranquil night.

The moon's gentle glow illuminated the contours of their expressions, revealing a shared contemplation of the vast expanse that stretched beyond their earthly concerns.

# Next Day – Seireitei - August 13th #

The group, comprised of Yato, Ichigo, Tatsuki, Orihime, Chad, and Uryū, stood before the imposing Senkaimon, the gateway that would usher them back home.

Behind the teenagers the majority of captains and lieutenants formed a distinguished presence. Notably absent were Captain Zaraki and Kurotsuchi.

As the anticipation lingered in the air, Yato couldn't help but observe the approaching figure of Rukia. His eyes caught the elegant flow of the azure dress she wore.

Yato: "Why are you carrying that backpack?" - He questioned with a note of curiosity in his voice.

His question earned him a raised eyebrow from the determined shinigami.Rukia, crossing her arms, retorted

Rukia: "I'm coming with you. Why do you look so surprised?" The subtle challenge in her stance spoke volumes of her resolve.

Before Yato could formulate a response, Captain Ukitake took deliberate steps forward, his presence commanding attention.

Ukitake: "Just a moment, Yato-kun, Ichigo-kun." - He called out to the young ones. - "I would like to present these to both of you."

Yato observed the scene, noting that Ukitake carried two Substitute Shinigami Badges. Despite the captain's outward calmness, a subtle tension lingered beneath the surface. Yato had anticipated that only Ichigo would receive the emblem, sparking a flicker of curiosity.

Ichigo: "What's this?"

Ukitake: "A Substitute Shinigami Badge. It's an ancient custom of ours to bestow this emblem upon individuals whom the Soul Society deems beneficial. When worn, it allows you to transform into a shinigami when the need arises." - He explained with a serene demeanor. - "I know this doesn't make up for everything you've done for us, but–"

Ichigo: "It's okay." - He interrupted, a warm smile breaking across his face as he accepted the badge.

Yato: "No need for gifts... I kinda just did all this for Rukia's sake–" - His words were halted by a gentle elbow nudge from Rukia.

Rukia: "Don't be rude. Just accept it."

Yato, still grappling with his reluctance, sighed. He looked at the emblem in his hand and, with a nod, acknowledged the significance of the gesture.

Yato: "Thanks..."

Yoruichi: "It's time." - Yoruichi, now in her feline form, conveyed the message to the young ones.

Before stepping through the Senkaimon, Nemu approached Yato with a respectful bow.

Nemu: "I would like to accompany you, Yasakani-sama, but I find it more convenient to continue my duties as lieutenant. This way, I can keep you informed of everything." - She spoke in a hushed tone, ensuring only Yato could hear.

Yato, appreciating her dedication, nodded understandingly.

Yato: "Alright... take care...Nemuri-chan." - He said with a warm smile, his hand gently tousling the lieutenant's hair in a playful gesture and no one seemed to notice the gasp that escaped Nemu upon hearing Yato's words.

As the young ones approached the gateway, Yato glanced back, smirking at Nemu.

Lieutenant Nemu, still processing Yato's earlier words, found her gaze lingering on the departing group. The faintest trace of a smile crossed her features, a subtle acknowledgment of a moment shared.

The captains and lieutenants observed in a moment of shared contemplation as the group of young individuals made their way toward the Senkaimon, disappearing from the sight.