At long last, here's Chapter 13…the epilogue...

Main Pairing: Ichigo x Rukia

Disclaimer: Bleach belongs to Kubo

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3 years later

"Onii-chan! Today is finally the day!" Yuzu chirped happily while fixing Ichigo's robe and gently tapping away the invisible dust. "Wow, you look so cool, Onii-chan!" Yuzu said as she clapped her hands together. Yuzu was wearing a like pink tulle dress which suits her innocent like personality.

"Yuzu, better take one long last look at your beloved Onii-chan. After today, Ichi-nii belongs to Rukia-chan." Karin teased Yuzu to which the cheerful girl quickly turned red. In contrast to Yuzu, Karin wore a navy blue bodycon dress which is really fitting to her body, showing her curves. Her body had grown a lot in these 3 years with a more mature chest and toned body from soccer practices.

"Geez, Karin-channnnn! It wasn't anything like that!" Yuzu pouted and grabbed Karin by the shoulders, shaking the black haired twin in embarrassment.

"Karin, stop teasing Yuzu." Ichigo chuckled. "But it sure feels weird wearing this outfit." Ichigo said as he examined the delicate workmanship of the ceremonial kimono that was specifically ordered by Byakuya as a gift for this special day.

"You look great, Ichi-nii. Don't worry." Karin reassured Ichigo. "Besides, Rukia-chan will still a buffoon like you no matter how stupid you look." Karin smirked.

"Why you-" "ICHIGOOO! My son, I'm so proud of youuuuu!" Ichigo was cut off when Isshin suddenly came flying into the room towards Ichigo but missed when Ichigo instinctively dodge his attacker. "What the hell, you old fart! Trying to mess up my outfit?!" Ichigo barked.

"Oh, Masaki! Our son is getting married! He's so lucky to have an angel like Rukia-chan to love him! Masaki, can your see our son now? Masaki, oh, Masa-" Isshin was immediately shut up with Ichigo's foot to his face.

"Shut the hell up, you crazy old man!" Ichigo yelled as he continued to stomp on Isshin.

"Ara, ara, you shouldn't treat your father like this Kurosaki-san. He's going to get hurt." Urahara walked in with a green paper fan in his hands as usual with Yoruichi beside him. "Yo, Ichigo. You're making a huge ruckus as always!" Yoruichi laughed.

"Urahara-san! Yoruichi-san!" Ichigo turned around to face them.

"Anyway, congratulations on your wedding with Kuchiki-san." He continued merrily.

Yes, today is the day Ichigo and Rukia finally get married. Two months ago Ichigo had approach Byakuya to ask Rukia's hand in marriage. To his surprised, Byakuya gave them his blessing without much hesitation.

"Though I do not favor you much. However, I have seen how both you and Rukia have endured much trials and tribulations and yet that did not stop break you apart. Rukia may not be a weak woman, but she still needs someone who will always be by her side to support her. Perhaps, Kozo, you are who she needed the most. May I wish the both of you happiness." Those were the words Byakuya had said to Ichigo but he had also warned Ichigo that should Ichigo cause any harm to Rukia, he will see to it that Ichigo will not live for tomorrow, to which Ichigo shuddered at the thought of being shredded by Senbonzakura.

"Yoohoo! Kurosaki-kun!" Inoue came along with the rest of Ichigo's friends. All of them had dressed for the occasion as well. The girls are in their evening gowns while the guys dressed in suits.

"Even when you're dressed like a noble, you still can't act appropriately, can you Kurosaki?" Ishida said as he adjusted his glasses.

"Shut up, Ishida!" Ichigo retorted.

"Ichigo! How could you?! I thought we were best buds. You can't take away Rukia-chan from me like this! She's mine…" Keigo whined as fake tears flowed down his face.

"Yo, Ichigo! Congrats!" Tatsuki said and looked at Keigo. "You just won't give up do you, Asano."

"You said like you had a chance with Kuchiki-san. How oblivious you are, Asano-san." Mizuiro sighed and turned to Ichigo. "Ichigo, congratulations. You look great."

"Congrats, Ichigo." Chad greeted Ichigo while grabbing Keigo by the collar to prevent him from getting to Ichigo.

"Thanks, guys." Ichigo smiled. Suddenly, sounds of bells chiming can be heard. "Oh, it's almost time! I have to go to the ceremonial shrine! You guys know how to get there right?"

"Just go, Kurosaki. We can handle ourselves." Ishida urged Ichigo to move on. With that, Ichigo thanked them and left with Shunpo.

"Kurosaki-kun sure is happy." Inoue said with a content sigh, slightly envious of both Ichigo and Rukia.

"Don't' worry Orihime, you'll get your happiness soon, isn't that right, Ishida?" Tatsuki snickered as she gently pat Inoue's head.

"W-wh-what?" Ishida blushed.

"Don't be shy! Both of you have been dating for 2 years, isn't it?" Tatsuki laughed.

"Not my Orihime-chan toooooo!" Keigo cried again. The group except Keigo laughed merrily.

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At the Kuchiki Mansion

Rukia stood in front of the mirror, staring at her gorgeous white bridal kimono. She was amazed at how elegant it was. Chiyo, Rukia's personal attendant, was behind her gently brushing her hair. The cheerful girl was constantly giggling, feeling giddy at how beautiful Rukia looked.

"You look splendid, Rukia-sama." Chiyo chirped. "Wahh… Rukia-sama as a bride…how blissful…"

"Thanks, Chiyo." Rukia smiled.

"No problem, it's my job after all!" Chiyo grinned at Rukia's reflection in the mirror. "Oh! It's almost time. Should I put on the veil for you, Rukia-sama?"

"Thank you, Chiyo. It's in the box on the table over there." Rukia said as she pointed towards the dressing table.

The wedding veil was a gift from all Ichigo's and Rukia's friends. Inoue came up with this idea after consulting Riruka, who is now a fashion designer, on what to give as a handmade wedding gift. She wanted to make sure everyone had a chance to do something for the couple so she took the trouble of travelling from one place to another to allow others to sew their part of the embroidery. Ichigo's family and real world friends, the Visoreds, people in Urahara's shop, their friends in Soul Society and even Kukakku and Ganju are a part of it. Byakuya was supposed to sew the embroidery as well but his attendant, Seike would not allow his master to something like this so he had sewn the embroidery in Byakuya's stead.

The veil was beautiful as it is decorated with strawberry flower embroidery sewn using golden thread. Inoue had told Rukia that the flower represents happy family or respect and love. Rukia was really touched by her best friend's actions and gave her a big hug, thanking her and other for their effort and sincerity.

After Chiyo had placed the veil over Rukia's head, she led Rukia out of the room and into the palanquin that was ready for the bride. "May I wish you happiness, Rukia-sama!" Chiyo bowed respectfully to Rukia who smiled back at her mouthing a 'thank you'.

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Early evening, at Kuchiki Clan Ceremonial Shrine

The golden ray from the setting sun spread across the sky as many Shinigamis had already arrived at the shrine, gathering on both sides of the red carpeted path. Kyoraku had announce that on this day, all Shinigamis are allowed to dismiss two hours earlier from work. This allow all of Ichigo's and Rukia's friends in Soul Society to attend to their wedding without any problem. It wasn't long until the rowdy atmosphere was immediately silenced when the silver bell echoed loudly.

"Bridegroom, proceed!" The shrine maiden then spoke with a commanding air. The gates slowly open and there stood Ichigo. Everyone let their gaze falls onto the orange head bridegroom as Ichigo bagan walking in with confidence towards the stairs leading up to the shrine. Once he turned to face the gate, the bell rang once more.

"Head of family, bride, proceed!" The shrine maiden's voice resounded.

The gates open once again with Byakuya, who was dressed in grayish blue kimono, holding up a red umbrella in front of the palanquin that pulled up outside the gate. The bamboo blinds were lifted up from the inside and Rukia stepped down. The crowds began to cheer at her appearance. She looked extremely elegant clad in white under the setting sun. The golden embroidery shone brightly due to the sunlight causing the opaque veil to look as if it is sparkling. Ichigo's eyes widen at the breathtaking view of Rukia's elegant form. She looks almost like she's in her bankai form. Rukia slips under the red umbrella that Byakuya is holding up and the two start walking side by side on the path approaching the shrine.

Inoue cried as she took pictures of the beautiful bride, feeling incredibly touched that Rukia is wearing her gift. Ishida gently wrapped an arm around Inoue and Tatsuki took the camera from Inoue and helped her took the pictures. Renji beside them feeling happy for Rukia. 'Be happy, Rukia.' He thought to himself.

The two calmly walked down the path along with the music. As they finally reached Ichigo who was waiting in front of the shrine, he bowed with respect towards Byakuya. Byakuya closes the red umbrella he was holding before handing it over to Ichigo.

"I want you to be happy, Rukia. And I believe this boy can make you happy for eternity." Byakuya said in a low voice only Rukia can hear.

"Nii…sama…" She looked up at Byakuya, whose eyes relaxed. Her eyes began to fill with tears.

"Don't cry." Byakuya said and gently place a hand on Rukia's upper back giving her a gentle nudge in Ichigo's direction. Ichigo held up the red umbrella and welcomed Rukia under it. Under the umbrella, Rukia gazed at Byakuya with gratitude and bowed deeply.

As the couple ascend the stairs of the shrine one step at a time, Byakuya gazed at their backs with pride. The priest recited the prayers and blessing the couple. Both Ichigo and Rukia exchanged ceremonial sake cups three times with three different cups, taking three sips from each cup. With that, the marriage ritual is finally complete. Unexpectedly, Ichigo gently took Rukia's left hand and with the other hand, he took out a tiny velvet box. Inside the box is a silver ring with a small diamond on it.

"I know it's not your tradition but here-" Ichigo said as he slips the ring onto Rukia's ring finger. "For you."

"Ichigo, I don't know what to say." Rukia was touched.

"It used to belong to my mom. I want you to have it."

"What? I can't- Your father-" Rukia started.

"He wanted you to have it too. When Kaien died, he really wanted to cheer you up. He regretted it so much at the time for not reaching out to you. So now, he said he wanted you to be the happiest person in the world. I'm sure my mom would want you to have it too." Ichigo explained.

Rukia was left speechless. For the first time in her life, she never felt so happy. Tears began to overflow but was immediately stopped when Ichigo lifted her veil and cupped her face, gently wipe the tears away with his thumb. Slowly, he brought Rukia's face closer and they both shared a passionate kiss. Upon their kiss, the crowd cheered even louder.

During the ceremony, there were lots of cheers and the ladies were constantly around Rukia wanting to take pictures with the beautiful bride. The men chat and congratulated Ichigo. After the ceremony, everyone passed their personal gifts to both Ichigo and Rukia, wishing them happiness. Ichigo had also offered to send off his friends and family to the Senkaimon.

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That night, Rukia moved into Ichigo's home. The newlywed couple lay in bed with Rukia right under Ichigo, sharing long passionate kisses.

"I've been waiting for this day for so long." Ichigo said between kisses.

"Me too…" Rukia replied breathlessly.

Ichigo continued giving hot kisses to Rukia and slowly brought his lips to her neck. Rukia moaned softly at Ichigo's gentle touch. Before Ichigo proceed, he look at Rukia's face seeking approval.

"Rukia, are you sure about this? If you don't want to I can-" He stopped when Rukia placed a finger on his lips, silencing him.

"Ichigo, stop talking…" She commanded in a soft and loving voice.

And the couple had a blissful moment that night, letting themselves sink into pleasure.

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7 years later, Kuchiki Manor's garden

"Kazu-nii, stop being such a wimp! You're gonna get bullied!" A black haired girl with a long ponytail said.

"B-but Ichika…"The orange haired boy whined timidly.

"Ichika, stop picking on your brother." An orange haired man reprimanded while walking towards the kids. It was Ichigo. His spiky hair was slightly longer than before and his bangs brushed slightly to the side.

"Otou-san!" "Papa!" Both children ran to their father with a big hug. "You're early today, Otou-san. Where's Okaa-san?" The boy asked.

"Well today is an important day. Your mom should be here soon." Ichigo replied. "And Ichika, be nice to your brother."

"But Kazu-nii keeps getting bullied whenever we were in Rukongai! I have to save his butt from those losers." Ichika said with pride.

"Wait! Who let you go to Rukongai without permission?" Ichigo questioned the kids. "Did you two sneak out again, Kazui, Ichika?!"

"Oops!" Ichika quickly clasped her hands on her mouth.

"Ichika! Why'd you tell Otou-san?" Kazui scolded his sister in a low voice.

"But papa! We're big enough to go out on our own, aren't we? I mean we are already Shinigami Apprentices." Ichika whined.

"You just got approval to become apprentices, doesn't mean you can go wandering around without supervision. What if a hollow attacks? Or what if some bad guys kidnapped you?!" Ichigo chided.

"Don't worry, mama always say I'm strong enough to kick butts!" Ichika said proudly.

Ichigo's eyebrow twitched at Ichika's statement. 'What are you teaching our kids, Rukia?' He thought and reminded himself to have a talk with Rukia later.

Speaking of the devil, Rukia had arrived at the scene. At their mother's appearance, both kids were extremely delighted and ran into their mother's open arms.

"I'm back! My precious babies!" Rukia said happily.

"Mama! We're not babies anymore. At least, I'm not." Ichika said mischeviously.

"I-chi-ka!" Kazui argued.

"Alright, alright. Let's not argue for today. You know what day is it today, right?" Rukia asked and the kids immediately grinned. "Happy birthday, Kazui, Ichika!" The shared a group hug which Ichigo joined in and wished his kids as well.

Rukia became pregnant when she and Ichigo had their first night together after their wedding. The following year in Spring, she gave birth to a pair of fraternal twins, a boy named, Kazui and a girl named, Ichika. Kazui came first and Ichika next, making Kazui the elder twin. Kazui looked similar to Ichigo's younger self but the spikes on his orange hair is softer compared to Ichigo's. His personality mostly resembles Ichigo when his mother was still alive, the clingy and cheerful momma's boy. He is also very curious like Rukia and would sneak out to Rukongai to explore but is often easily bullied due to his soft personality.

Ichika on the other hand have both Ichigo's and Rukia's stubbornness and is very strong-willed like Rukia. Her appearance and presence often reminded Ichigo of Rukia. She had Rukia's face, eyes and hair colour. The way she talks resembles Rukia, prideful but like Ichigo, she often get into fights with others. The twin are adored by their uncle, aunts, grandfather and every single one of their parents' friends. Both kids have a vast amount of spiritual pressure like their parents and due to that they are able to become Shinigami Apprentices at a very young age.

Today, the twins turned 6 six and Byakuya had prepared a banquet in the Kuchiki Manor's garden to celebrate the twin's birthday and also for flower viewing. The garden is filled with cherry blossom during this time of year, making it a beautiful place for a party.

"Go on and have fun. We'll come get you once the party is about to start." Rukia said, motioning her children to go.

"Okay!" The twins said in unison and ran off.

Rukia looked at the kids, smilling. Ichigo smiled as well and wrapped both arms around her from behind. "You know, you really need to stop Ichika from being violent with others." Ichigo said softly.

"It's not my fault that she's stubborn like you." Rukia chuckled.

"Oh? And you're saying you're not?" Ichigo smirked and brought his face close to hers.

"Let's see who's the stubborn one then." Rukia challenged Ichigo. Then, the couple had a long passionate kiss.

"Ewwwwww!!!" Ichigo and Rukia was surprised and quickly looked in front of them. Turns out their children, had been spying on them from behind a tree. Kazui covered his eyes by crossing his arms in front of his face while Ichika stuck her tongue out, making a disgusted face.

"Spying on your mom and dad, huh?" Ichigo smirked. "I'm gonna get you two!" He playfully spread his arms wide while running towards them and catching them. The trio laughed as the father tickled the kids. Rukia walked over and the kids broke free from their father. Both of them hid behind Rukia, asking for their mother to save them to which Rukia play along. The rest of the day was filled with cheerful laughter.

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This is the end.

Hope you enjoy the whole story! This chapter I actually borrowed some parts of the wedding ceremony from Miss StormCaller's translations on the Bleach Novel : We do KNOT always LOVE you. Although, I don't really like the fact that Rukia did not end up with Ichigo but the story is still cute.

Thank you very much for reading my story…