After the War

"You react pretty quickly, kid."

"Hehe, that's..."

Bang.

Ichigo had a huge lump on his head and a blank look on his face. "W-Why did I get hit for this too?"

Yuko withdrew her fist and muttered, "So hitting people really does make you feel physically and mentally refreshed."

Ichigo: "..."

You definitely just said something outrageous.

Yuko put away her fist and turned around.

"What are you doing!" Ichigo covered his head and took two steps back.

Yuko rolled her eyes at him. "Idiot. Your body's fine. They're all minor injuries. Just have that aunt treat you later."

As she spoke, she pointed toward Retsu Unohana, who was treating Byakuya Kuchiki's injuries nearby.

At this point, Retsu Unohana and Kotetsu Isane were probably the two most exhausted people there.

Although no one had died, quite a few injured people needed immediate treatment.

Byakuya Kuchiki leaned against a broken rock. Green light surged from Retsu Unohana's hands as the wounds on his body slowly healed.

"Done. The bleeding has completely stopped. There's no serious problem, but avoid strenuous activity for now."

After leaving him with those words, Retsu Unohana hurried off to treat the others.

Byakuya Kuchiki's body relaxed as he leaned against the rock and slowly closed his eyes.

Rukia had been hesitating for a long time. Finally, she gathered her courage and walked over.

"Brother..." Rukia's voice was very soft, carrying a trace of guilt and unease.

Byakuya kept his eyes closed. His face was still somewhat pale, but his breathing had steadied considerably. Hearing Rukia's voice, he slowly opened his eyes. His gaze remained as cold as ever.

But then...

"Rukia."

"Yes!"

"I'm sorry."

Those three simple words made Rukia's eyes widen instantly, tears welling up in them.

Yuko watched the scene, the corners of her lips