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Post by Shiori Miyazaki on Nov 2, 2024 2:16:57 GMT -6
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Post by Shiori Miyazaki on Nov 2, 2024 2:17:56 GMT -6
Bleach Unrated: REBOOTEDCurrent Arc: The ChaosEpisode 567 "Depth of the Soul": (continued) Shiori Miyazaki stepped onto the worn stone path that led to her family’s shrine, its familiar and comforting presence blanketed in a soft morning light. The air was crisp, carrying with it the faint scent of pine and old wood, mingling with the incense that drifted lazily from the main altar. She took in a deep breath, savoring the freshness of the mid-morning air. Her family shrine, a modest structure nestled on a hill just beyond the Noble village, had been her sanctuary since she was a child, a place filled with memories and quiet peace.
The shrine was an elegant, traditional courtyard designed in a Zen garden style with sloping tiled roofs, painted a muted red that had faded over the years. Its wooden pillars and beams were a rich, earthy brown, polished smooth by countless hands and the passage of time. The main hall’s paper screens had been meticulously maintained, allowing soft, filtered sunlight to spill into the inner sanctum where the shrine’s ancient relics were kept. Stone lanterns stood sentinel along the path, their bases covered in a fine layer of moss, and the edges of the stone steps were lined with tiny wildflowers peeking out of the crevices.
Shiori had a list of morning chores, but before she began, she paused at the main entrance, bowing in reverence and pressing her palms together in a prayer gesture. As she closed her eyes, a face came unbidden to her mind’s eye—Captain Toshiro Hitsugaya, with his snow-white hair and piercing teal eyes, a face that had been drifting in and out of her thoughts since she’d met him a few days ago. She’d only spoken to him briefly, but his image lingered, as clear as if he were standing right beside her.
With a small smile, she shook herself free from her thoughts and focused on her tasks, making her way toward the storage room to gather the supplies she needed for her morning routine. She collected a bucket, an old but sturdy broom, and a soft cloth for wiping down the wooden surfaces. Her first task was to sweep the stone steps leading up to the shrine, a daily chore that she had long since grown accustomed to. The steps wound up in a gentle incline, each stone slightly uneven with age but beautifully enduring.
As she swept, her mind wandered back to that day with Captain Hitsugaya. He had been so polite, a hint of curiosity in his gaze as he spoke to her. She hadn’t expected someone with such a powerful reputation to be… well, so approachable. When he greeted her in his office, she noticed the contrast between his sharp features and his gentle mannerisms, a balance that felt both intriguing and admirable.
She sighed, her sweeping movements rhythmic and steady, sending small clouds of dust into the air as she worked her way down the path. Captain Hitsugaya’s hair had caught her attention immediately—so brilliantly white that it almost glowed. It was rare to see anyone with hair like that, and the unusual color had made him seem almost ethereal. She had caught herself staring, quickly averting her gaze when he'd turned toward her, embarrassed but curious. There had been something about him, a quiet strength, a kindness that softened his serious expression.
Finishing the path, she emptied the dust into a small trash bin tucked behind the storage shed. Next, she moved to the courtyard, where she would wipe down the wooden beams and lanterns around the main hall. Dipping her cloth into the bucket of fresh water, she wrung it out and began to gently clean the polished wood, careful not to leave any streaks. As she worked, she hummed a little tune, the sound blending with the chirping of the birds that darted through the nearby trees.
She couldn’t help but wonder what it was like to work under Captain Hitsugaya’s leadership. Rumor had it that he was a strict but fair leader, demanding discipline but caring for his subordinates with a protective fierceness. She imagined him at work, giving orders with that serious look on his face, his voice low but steady. The thought made her smile—he had seemed so focused, so in control. But there had been a softness to his gaze that made her think he wasn’t just a captain, but someone with a heart full of unspoken kindness.
As she moved from one wooden pillar to the next, Shiori’s thoughts lingered on his voice. It had been calm and steady, with a hint of something deeper, like an undercurrent of water flowing beneath the surface. She remembered the walk back to the shrine, bowing slightly before he left. There had been a weight to his departure as if he’d truly appreciated her company. She hadn’t thought much of it at the time, but now, in the quiet solitude of the shrine, she replayed the moment in her mind, wondering if he often showed such gratitude or if she had witnessed something unusual.
Her cloth grew damp with dust, and she rinsed it in the bucket, watching as the water clouded with dirt. She set it aside for a moment and stood, stretching her arms and looking out at the tranquil landscape that surrounded the shrine. A gentle breeze ruffled her hair, and she closed her eyes, letting her thoughts drift back to her encounter with him once more. It was silly, she knew, to get so wrapped up in thoughts of someone she’d only met briefly, but something about him had struck her in a way she couldn’t quite explain.
Finally, she moved to the inner sanctum, where she would light fresh incense and arrange the offerings. She placed a small bowl of fresh fruit on the altar, along with a few coins for good fortune. Lighting the incense, she watched as the smoke curled upward, carrying with it her silent prayers for the shrine’s protection and prosperity. As she watched the tendrils of smoke drift toward the ceiling, she felt a quiet sense of peace settle over her.
Captain Hitsugaya’s image surfaced once again, his teal eyes watching her with that gentle intensity she had found so mesmerizing. She wondered if she’d ever see him again, if he’d remember her as she remembered him. Shiori smiled to herself, realizing she had been daydreaming for far too long. Chiding herself for her silliness, she gathered her cleaning supplies and put them away, her morning chores complete.
Yet as she left the shrine and stepped back onto the stone path, her thoughts drifted once more to the snowy-haired captain, a soft blush warming her cheeks. She wasn’t sure why he lingered so vividly in her mind, but for now, she was content to let the memory of him accompany her as she walked back into the world beyond the shrine, carrying with her the quiet hope that perhaps, someday, their paths might cross again. |
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Post by Captain Toshiro Hitsugaya on Nov 2, 2024 12:35:32 GMT -6
Toshiro entered the shrine area of the Miyazaki Shrine, which was nearby what he assumed was the Miyazaki estate proper as well as their academy. The grounds were a series of buildings, each seemingly for one purpose or the other. He wasn't sure what each of those purposes were, but he was curious to find out. He had no idea where Shiori might be, or if she was even here. Maybe she was out performing her duties as a Mystic of the Miyazaki clan. He tried to picture what those duties might look like beyond patrolling and resolving simple issues the people had.
The shrine was rather beautiful despite its modesty and had a calming aura surrounding it. It was peaceful. Serene. He walked the stone pathway further into the shrine, wandering around and looking at the many pathways, buildings and traditional stone statues, lanterns, and toriis. Toshiro looked around for someone to speak to about where to find the main alter, but there didn't seem to be a soul in sight. At least not yet. It was still early, after all. Yet the grounds looked well kept. Surely there was someone assigned to morning chores before the shrine officially opened.
Unless he stumbled into the wrong area.
Toshiro hummed and crossed his arms, pausing in place. He didn't want to venture any further, lest he wander into an area where he wasn't welcome. "Maybe I should have come later..."
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Post by Shiori Miyazaki on Nov 2, 2024 13:51:20 GMT -6
Shiori was just returning from dropping off her cleaning supplies when she stopped short at the sight of him. There, standing on the stone pathway that wound through the Miyazaki Shrine grounds, was Captain Toshiro Hitsugaya, looking as composed and ethereal as she remembered. His snow-white hair gleamed under the soft morning sunlight, and his teal eyes took in the shrine’s surroundings with curiosity.
A thrill of surprise, excitement, and something sweeter jolted through her, and Shiori instinctively fought to suppress her reaction. She tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear, straightened her posture, and carefully smoothed out the look of surprise from her face. But beneath her calm exterior, her heart fluttered. The image of Toshiro she had been unable to shake all morning had somehow become reality.
For a moment, she simply observed him. He looked slightly uncertain, like he was not sure whether he should continue forward. His eyes scanned the grounds, lingering on the toriis and stone lanterns, seemingly appreciating the shrine’s serene beauty. Shiori smiled to herself, charmed by his thoughtful gaze and the care he took in respecting the space. She took a quiet breath, regaining her composure, and walked toward him with a soft, steady stride.
“Captain Hitsugaya,” she greeted, bowing politely as she approached. Her voice was steady, yet a subtle warmth seeped through her words. “This is a pleasant surprise. What brings you to the Miyazaki Shrine so early?”
Toshiro turned, slightly surprised himself to see her so suddenly, but he quickly collected himself. He gave a respectful nod, his usual stoic expression softening ever so slightly as he met her gaze. “Good morning, Miss Miyazaki,” he replied, his voice carrying its usual calm authority, though there was a hint of something lighter, almost curious, in his tone. “I hope I’m not intruding. I thought I’d visit the shrine, as it was nearby. It seems I arrived earlier than I intended.”
Shiori shook her head, her hands folded neatly in front of her. “Not at all, Captain. The shrine is always open to visitors, and the Miyazaki family welcomes anyone who comes with respect.”
She tried not to let her gaze linger on him, but his presence was almost magnetic. Toshiro’s eyes drifted toward the surrounding buildings and statues again, as though memorizing each detail of the place. He cleared his throat softly, looking a bit sheepish.
“I… wasn’t sure if I was in the right area. I didn’t want to disrupt any ceremonies or intrude upon restricted parts of the shrine,” he explained, glancing back at her. “The grounds are impressive, though. I can tell a lot of care goes into maintaining it.”
Shiori felt a small surge of pride in her family’s shrine, though she remained modest. “Thank you. The Miyazaki Shrine has been a part of our clan’s history for generations. We believe in preserving its beauty as a way of honoring our ancestors. And… well, I help with some of that care myself.” She looked down, gesturing to the faint traces of dust on her hands from her morning chores.
Toshiro’s gaze softened, and she thought she saw a glimmer of admiration in his eyes. “That’s admirable,” he said, nodding. “The care you take is evident in the atmosphere here. It’s peaceful.” He glanced at her hands, noticing the traces of her work, and gave a slight, almost hesitant smile. “A place of peace doesn’t come about without effort, I suppose.”
Shiori couldn’t help but feel a bit flustered by his compliment, but she hid it behind a soft laugh. “It’s true. Even the simplest tasks, like sweeping the pathways or refreshing the offering trays, contribute to the shrine’s energy. And speaking of tasks… I was just finishing my morning rounds.”
“Ah,” Toshiro replied, nodding. “I didn’t mean to interrupt, then. Please, continue with your duties. I won’t get in the way.”
But Shiori quickly shook her head, feeling a pang of disappointment at the thought of him leaving. “No, please. I… I wouldn’t mind the company, if you’d like to see more of the shrine,” she offered, her voice softening. “It’s not often we get such a distinguished visitor.”
A moment of silence stretched between them, but then Toshiro nodded. “If you’re certain I’m not imposing.”
“Not at all,” Shiori reassured, a quiet smile brightening her expression. “It would be my pleasure.”
Together, they walked along the stone pathway, and Shiori found herself pointing out little details—the shrine’s main altar, the sacred trees adorned with paper wishes, the koi pond near the far side of the grounds. As they strolled, she found herself relaxing, her initial excitement giving way to a quiet contentment.
“Each building here has a specific purpose,” she explained, gesturing toward the structures. “Some are for prayer and meditation, others are for rituals or for storing sacred texts and artifacts.”
Toshiro listened intently, his gaze following her gestures. “It’s impressive how each element is designed with intention,” he said, his voice thoughtful. “I don’t often see places that feel… connected, like this.”
Shiori smiled. “That’s the goal. We hope that people who visit the shrine feel a sense of belonging, even if they’re only here briefly.”
As they continued, Toshiro occasionally asked questions—quiet, respectful inquiries about the shrine’s history, the rituals performed, or the significance of certain statues and symbols. Shiori answered with care, each response giving her a sense of pride in her family’s legacy.
Eventually, they reached the koi pond, where Shiori had planned to skim the surface and ensure the water was clear. She knelt by the edge, glancing at Toshiro as she picked up the small net she’d brought earlier. “The koi are rather lively in the mornings,” she said with a light laugh, watching as one of the brightly colored fish surfaced, creating gentle ripples.
Toshiro knelt beside her, watching the koi with an almost childlike fascination. “They’re beautiful,” he murmured. “I’ve always found koi to be… calming.”
Shiori’s heart fluttered at the unexpected moment of shared admiration. She looked at him from the corner of her eye, taking in the rare softness in his expression. For a brief, unguarded moment, he seemed more than just a captain—more than the stoic leader she had met before. He looked almost… at peace.
A warm silence fell between them, broken only by the gentle splashing of the koi. Shiori felt her cheeks warm, and she returned her attention to her task, feeling both grateful and a little shy to share this quiet moment with him.
Eventually, she stood, brushing off her hands. “Thank you for indulging my explanations, Captain. It’s not often I get to speak with someone who truly listens.”
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Post by Captain Toshiro Hitsugaya on Nov 2, 2024 17:57:09 GMT -6
Toshiro blinked at Shiori and tilted his head at her. He stood up beside her, continuing to watch her. "I can't imagine why. You're rather easy to talk to. And you have many interesting things to say. I have to admit, I'm rather curious about your duties as a Miyazaki priestess. And about your clan in general. Though I'm wary of sounding too nosey."
He looked around the shrine, his eyes following the path around the grounds they had taken. "You see... I lost my connection with my zanpakuto. I've been trying to gain it back, but... nothing seems to have worked. I'm trying not to force it, as I have been advised not to, but I still feel like there's more I could be doing. More I could be learning." Toshiro looked back at Shiori. "I would like to learn more about your world. But not for my own gain only. I'm genuinely curious about you and your clan."
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Post by Shiori Miyazaki on Nov 2, 2024 19:38:07 GMT -6
Shiori listened to Toshiro’s words, her smile warm and thoughtful. After a moment, she looked toward the koi pond, watching the gentle ripples before turning back to him with an intrigued expression.
“Captain Hitsugaya, what you’ve said reminds me of a practice that some within the Miyazaki clan perform,” she began, her voice soft and reverent. “It’s similar to jinzen, but… deeper. In our family, it’s called Shukusei.”
Toshiro’s eyes sharpened with curiosity, and Shiori continued, sensing his interest.
“Shukusei is a form of meditation that not only allows us to communicate with our zanpakutō spirits but also to truly merge our consciousness with theirs,” she explained. “In standard jinzen, we reach a state of connection to learn from our zanpakutō, to understand its nature and communicate. But Shukusei goes beyond that. It’s… a path toward unity, a bond where the boundaries between our soul and theirs blur.”
She paused, glancing down at her hands as she reflected on the significance of this practice. “It’s a way to harmonize completely with our zanpakutō spirit, to feel as they feel, to see as they see. When performed properly, it brings out the zanpakutō’s truest nature, their deepest abilities… and sometimes even aspects of their spirit that we weren’t aware existed.”
Toshiro listened intently, his expression serious as he considered her words. “A state of unity… Does that require more than simply calling upon their power?”
“Yes,” Shiori nodded. “It’s a delicate process. Shukusei requires a lot of trust between the Soul Reaper and the zanpakutō spirit—a willingness to surrender some control and open oneself completely to them. It’s not something most try lightly, as it can be… unsettling, even dangerous, if one’s resolve falters. But if successful, the bond it forges is profound, and it can unlock abilities that can only be wielded through such a connection.”
She tilted her head, her gaze meeting his with a gentle smile. “In the Miyazaki clan, it’s often practiced in times of great change or personal growth, or when a Soul Reaper feels their connection to their zanpakutō has matured to a new level. It’s almost like a rite of passage—a confirmation that one’s spirit has reached a state of harmony with their blade.”
Toshiro nodded, a contemplative look in his eyes. “Shukusei… It’s unlike anything I’ve heard of. Most Soul Reapers see their zanpakutō as a partner, a separate entity. But this… this sounds almost like becoming one spirit.”
Shiori’s smile softened. “Yes. That’s precisely it. It’s like looking into a mirror that reflects not just our own soul, but theirs as well. The process is… humbling, and it has the potential to bring out the best of both the Soul Reaper and their zanpakutō.”
They stood in silence for a moment, the peaceful sounds of the shrine around them filling the space. Shiori felt a warmth in her chest, grateful to have shared something so deeply rooted in her family’s legacy with him.
“If you’re ever interested in learning more about Shukusei, Captain, I would be honored to guide you through the first steps,” she offered, a hint of hesitation in her voice. “It’s… not something most outsiders have tried, but you strike me as someone who seeks growth beyond traditional means.”
Toshiro considered her offer, his gaze thoughtful, yet there was a faint gleam of interest in his eyes. “I’ll consider it. It sounds… intriguing. And perhaps, one day, I’d be willing to learn.”
The words hung between them, a quiet promise of something more profound—a chance to connect in ways they hadn’t before. As Shiori watched him, she wondered if this might be the start of a journey that would lead them both to new depths, not only with their zanpakutō spirits but also with each other.
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Post by Captain Toshiro Hitsugaya on Nov 2, 2024 20:57:30 GMT -6
Shukusei. A deeper connection with one's zanpakuto spirit. The result being that the two of them--shinigami and zanpakuto--became one. How would that work? The Arrancars had their Resurreccion and Segunda Etapa. But did Soul Reapers have something similar? Something that took two halves of themselves and... merged them? And if it was dangerous, as Shiori mentioned, then in what way? These were all questions Toshiro wanted to ask Shiori, but he restrained himself. He had asked enough questions for now.
But it was something to think about.
Toshiro turned to Shiori and smiled slightly at her, bowing to her. "Thank you, Miss Miyazaki, for sharing the knowledge of your family's technique with me. I appreciate your trust in me. I think for now..." He looked back towards the building where the altar was. "For now I think I would like to visit the altar." He turned back to her. "If you are not busy... you can join me if you would like."
He wasn't sure why he offered. Usually he preferred to do such things alone. Maybe it was her kind demeanor and calming presence. She wasn't loud or rambunctious or too full of energy. He sensed that maybe underneath her calm exterior there may exist some part of her that could relax and be herself when she wasn't on duty, but her presence wasn't a source of anxiety for him. There was no need to monitor her to keep her out of trouble or worry that she was going to get herself hurt. There was no assumption that she would drag him off to gods knew where for some reason or another. She wouldn't baby him or treat him like a child. And despite the fact that those were all traits that people who were important to him held, sometimes over the years he felt like he needed a break... Until they were no longer there. Until only one remained.
Shiori. She felt like someone who could take care of herself. Who would walk with him, not in front of him or behind him. Who he would feel comfortable fighting back to back with and not just fighting on his orders. She felt like someone who could easily match another's energy.
It was... refreshing.
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Post by Shiori Miyazaki on Nov 2, 2024 21:14:35 GMT -6
Shiori's face softened with a gentle smile, a warm, almost serene expression as she dipped her head respectfully. “It would be an honor to join you, Captain Hitsugaya.” She fell into step beside him, her movements graceful and unhurried, as if the tranquility of the shrine itself had imbued her with an extra layer of calm.
As they walked along the stone path, passing lanterns, weathered statues, and the delicate maple trees casting their shadows over the grounds, Shiori spoke thoughtfully, her gaze on the path before her.
“Perhaps, when we reach the altar, we might take a moment to pray for the fallen of the Gotei 13,” she suggested softly, glancing up at him. “They sacrificed so much to protect the balance of our world. A moment of remembrance feels fitting in a place as peaceful as this.”
Toshiro nodded, his expression respectful. “I think that would be appropriate.”
There was a pause as they continued their walk, the sounds of birds and a gentle breeze filling the silence. Shiori stole a glance at Toshiro, noting the contemplative look on his face. She wondered if he was still mulling over the concept of Shukusei—the technique that allowed a Soul Reaper to merge with their zanpakutō spirit on such an intimate level. Few outside her clan knew of it, and she could sense his curiosity. Yet he had restrained himself, showing a respect for boundaries that made her feel even more comfortable in his presence.
“It must sound… strange,” she ventured, her voice soft. “The idea of Shukusei, I mean. Becoming one with your zanpakutō spirit. Many find it unsettling, and not without reason. It requires a willingness to confront all parts of oneself, even those we’d rather ignore.”
Toshiro looked over at her, his expression still thoughtful. “It’s not so strange to me, actually,” he replied, his voice low. “Perhaps because I’ve already had to rely on my zanpakutō spirit, Hyōrinmaru, so many times. There are battles where I feel like I’m closer to him than to anyone else in the world.”
Shiori smiled at that. “It’s said that our zanpakutō spirits are a reflection of our souls. And through Shukusei, that reflection becomes… less of a mirror and more of a fusion. Like two rivers flowing into one.”
Toshiro’s gaze softened, and he seemed to consider this deeply as they approached the main shrine building. The altar stood at the heart of the shrine, a simple yet elegant structure adorned with small offerings left by the Miyazaki family and visitors who came to pay their respects. Shiori felt a deep sense of reverence here—a connection to her ancestors, to those who had walked these paths long before her, and to the countless spirits who had found peace within these grounds.
She knelt before the altar, gesturing for Toshiro to do the same beside her. Together, they bowed their heads in silent prayer, honoring the memories of those who had given their lives for the Soul Society. Shiori closed her eyes, picturing the countless faces of those who had fallen, each one a reminder of the duty she bore as a priestess of the Miyazaki clan, and of the delicate balance she was sworn to protect by protecting those who couldn't protect themselves.
After a moment, she whispered softly, “May their spirits find peace, and may we carry their strength within us.”
The air felt still around them, as if the very shrine itself acknowledged their prayer, the gentle breeze stirring the leaves in response. Shiori opened her eyes and looked at Toshiro, her expression contemplative.
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Post by Captain Toshiro Hitsugaya on Nov 2, 2024 21:42:08 GMT -6
Toshiro took his time praying at the altar, picturing Momo, Rangiku, and all of the others they had lost. He also pictured the people who had survived who were still overcoming their demons. Including himself. Despite how long Rangiku and Momo had been gone now, he still couldn't seem to fully move past it. Things were different. Too different. He would give anything to go back to how it was. Back to Rangiku pestering him and slacking off. Back to Momo treating him like a child. Back before Aizen revealed his true face. But none of that was possible. They were gone, and he was still there. He knew their spirits weren't really gone. They had just been reincarnated back into humans through the cycle that was the life of a soul. One day he too would die a second death and be reincarnated into someone new with no memories of any of this.
The thought was... terrifying. That one day he would never remember this life and the people he lived it with. But the thought that a death god could fear death... No. It wasn't death that he feared. It was the not remembering. The separation. The erasure of who he was now.
Toshiro turned to Shiori. "If you don't mind... one last question for today... Have you... Have you ever lost someone? Someone close to you. Someone you thought would be there forever, until they weren't."
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Post by Shiori Miyazaki on Nov 2, 2024 22:07:49 GMT -6
Shiori’s gaze softened, a hint of sadness flickering in her violet-magenta eyes as she looked down, collecting her thoughts. She folded her hands together, the gentle weight of the memory settling over her like the soft rustle of leaves around them.
“Yes,” she murmured, her voice barely more than a whisper. “My grandfather. He was the head of our family and... one of the most important people in my life.”
She glanced up at Toshiro, her expression a mixture of fondness and melancholy. “I always thought he would be here forever. He had this strength about him—like nothing could ever shake him, no matter what happened. He taught me everything about being a Miyazaki and a Mystic. He even introduced me to the art of Shukusei.”
Her eyes drifted away, as if she could see her grandfather’s face somewhere in the gentle morning mist surrounding the shrine. “I think... losing him was the moment I understood that even the strongest bonds can be taken from us. And that realization... it’s like a wound that never fully heals.”
She took a deep breath, steadying herself. “But he’s still with me. I see traces of him in the way the trees sway, in the strength of the mountain, and in moments like this, when everything feels so still.” Shiori paused, her gaze meeting Toshiro’s, searching his face as though trying to convey something deeper. “Even though he’s gone, his teachings and his spirit live on within me. That’s what gives me the strength to keep going.”
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Post by Captain Toshiro Hitsugaya on Nov 2, 2024 22:29:11 GMT -6
Toshiro nodded slowly. He understood that feeling. All too well. Seeing those you lost in everything. Feeling like the wound would never fully heal.
He took a deep breath and spoke. "I lost my sister and my lieutenant--my friend. Momo Hinamori. She was incredibly strong. One of the best kido practitioners I had ever seen. Better than me even. But she... Sometimes I thought she cared too much. That it got her into trouble. It did, but still she cared. When I think of her I try and remember that kindness she showed everyone."
He took another deep breath. "And my lieutenant, Rangiku Matsumoto... I'm here because of her. Everything I am is because of her. If she had not found me that day in Junrinan... I don't know where I would be. My grandmother would certainly be dead because of me. Because of my reiatsu. But more than that, she was my first true friend. She--and Momo--reminded me that I wasn't alone. That I didn't have to shoulder burdens alone. And now that they're both gone... I see them everywhere. I feel like I'm going insane. Even though I should be past this by now, I don't think I am. I pretend that I am but... That ache hasn't gone away. Not completely... I don't think it ever will."
Toshiro looked back at Shiori. He wasn't sure what his eyes were giving away, but he imagined it was similar to the ache he saw in Shiori's. "How do you talk about the good times when sometimes it hurts just to remember at all?"
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Post by Shiori Miyazaki on Nov 2, 2024 22:51:16 GMT -6
Shiori’s gaze softened with empathy as she listened, feeling the depth of Toshiro's pain in every word. When he finished, she let the silence stretch for a moment, allowing the weight of his memories to settle around them, almost as if his lost loved ones were present with them, listening too.
"Captain," she began, her voice a gentle murmur, “it’s natural to feel that ache, even years later. The heart isn’t made to just ‘get over’ losses like that. The people we love… they’re woven into us, into everything we are. Trying to live without them feels like trying to walk without a shadow. We know they're not physically there, but somehow they’re always with us.”
She paused, her eyes meeting his with a quiet intensity. "The pain… it’s a reminder that they were real. That they mattered. And I think that’s where talking about them helps. It doesn’t erase the ache, but it keeps them alive, even if only in memory. It lets their stories breathe, and their spirits linger with us a little longer.”
Shiori tilted her head slightly, her expression thoughtful. “You ask how to talk about the good times when it hurts. I think… we remember the love first. Love is what makes those memories hurt, but it’s also what makes them precious. When I talk about my grandfather, I feel his warmth. His pride in me, his strength… even if it brings a tear, it’s like I can feel his hand on my shoulder again."
She glanced down for a moment, collecting her thoughts. "With Momo and Rangiku... maybe you could try speaking of the ways they made you feel. How Momo’s kindness taught you about compassion. How Rangiku’s friendship showed you that you weren’t alone. When you talk about that, Captain, it’s like calling them back, if only for a little while.”
Her gaze returned to him, gentle but unwavering. "When you keep their stories alive, they become part of the world again. Even if it’s only in your words, only in your memories, they’re still here. Still with you.”
She smiled, a faint, comforting curve of her lips. “And maybe, as you share those memories—little by little, in moments like these—you’ll find the ache softening. Not because the pain is gone, but because you’re allowing yourself to feel the love they gave you. And that’s something grief can never take away.”
She placed a hand gently over her heart, then extended it towards him, her palm open as if inviting him to lay his hand over hers, to feel the unspoken support she was offering. “So, if you ever want to speak about them… I’ll be here to listen. Because they’re still part of you, Captain. And as long as you carry their memory, they’ll always have a place in this world.”
Her voice grew softer. “Maybe that’s what Shukusei is really about… merging two spirits to make them inseparable. Just as we do with those we’ve loved and lost. We become whole with them—together, even if only in spirit.”
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Post by Captain Toshiro Hitsugaya on Nov 2, 2024 23:12:58 GMT -6
Toshiro reflected on Shiori's words, taking in eveything she said. Keeping them alive through his words. Not letting their memory fade. Talking about them, sharing things about them, kept them alive. If their memories were alive, then so were they. And it would be that way for him too. Once he was gone, the people who cared about him would continue to tell stories about him. People like Tsukiro, Suzume, Kita. Maybe even Captain Shiba.
Toshiro hesitated then slowly reached out to take Shiori's hand. Her hand was warm. Burning even, compared to his own cool skin. Though her hand was slender, it held untold strength in the way she squeezed his. Her palm, though somewhat calloused from training with a sword, was also soft and gentle.
"Shukusei... Purging the negative energy... by uniting two souls into one..." He nodded slowly in understanding. Or at least he believed he understood. He was sure there was deeper meaning he was still missing, still not fully seeing the bigger picture, but the pieces were there and they were fitting together one by one. Toshiro looked up from their joined hands into her blue-violet eyes, burning with emotion. He gave her a soft smile. "You do your clan proud, Miss Miyazaki. You are a splendid priestess. Thank you for your guidance. You have no idea how much you've helped me today." He gave her hand a squeeze in return.
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Post by Shiori Miyazaki on Nov 2, 2024 23:23:04 GMT -6
Shiori felt her heart swell at his words, warmth flooding through her. She looked at him, seeing not only the gratitude in his eyes but also the flicker of something lighter, as though a small weight had lifted from his spirit. She smiled softly, meeting his gaze, and held his hand a moment longer, wanting him to feel the solidity of her support.
“Captain Hitsugaya,” she began, her voice a gentle murmur, “I want you to know… my door is always open to you. Day or night, I’ll be here if you need someone to talk to. If you ever need a friend, or simply a listening ear, you can come to me. Grief has no schedule, and neither does healing.”
Her fingers gently squeezed his, a grounding gesture as she added, “And know this—whatever burdens you carry, they don’t have to be yours alone. I believe that’s one of the hardest lessons for any of us to learn, but it’s also one of the most powerful. We’re stronger together, even in our pain.”
She watched him for a moment, then released his hand slowly, as if not wanting to break the moment too soon. “You’ve given so much to the Soul Society, Captain. So let others be there for you too. Even if it’s just in small moments like these.” She inclined her head, her smile never fading. “I’m honored to walk beside you, whether it’s on a battlefield or a quiet path like this.”
With that, Shiori took a gentle step back, creating space for him to feel what he needed to without pressure, her presence a constant reassurance. The peace surrounding the shrine seemed to amplify her words, wrapping them both in an unspoken promise.
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Post by Captain Toshiro Hitsugaya on Nov 2, 2024 23:37:02 GMT -6
Toshiro nodded to her, lowering his hand casually. "Thank you, I truly appreciate it." He paused for a moment before chuckling, giving her a grin. "And if you ever need a nosey captain who's willing to listen to you speak about your clan--or anything at all really--then feel free to drop by my division. We may be up to our elbows in work most days, but my door is always open."
He thought for a moment before he added, "Things have been hard on everyone in Soul Society. Many things are not the same for pretty much all of us. I try not to overwork my officers. They've been through enough already. No need for me to add more stress to their plates. In fact, I'm sure they could use your guidance as well. You have this... soothing aura around you. I'm sure you'd be a welcome presence in any division, if your duties allow."
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