Disclaimer: I don't own Bleach/Attack on Titan

Let me start off by saying, 'Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you all have a great holiday!'

I know I promised that this chapter would be 10,000 words long but I regret to inform you that while this is my longest chapter, I failed reaching the 10,000 word mark. The reason for this is explained in the author's note below.

This chapter mainly consists of character interaction and especially on the Ichigo x Mikasa relationship and what happened between them in 749. This will be the last chapter for a good while that will focus on romance and all of that other fluff because as you will plainly see while you read the chapter, is that I suck at it. The only really good thing about this chapter was the appearance of everyone's favourite character.

After this chapter comes the blood, gore, death, destruction, awakened powers and bad ass moments, in other words, the real reason you're reading this story. There is a very, very light smut scene in this chapter.

Chapter 7 – Perspective

It was the morning after the graduation ceremony, and the sun was shining brightly, showering the town with another beautiful day. Although for several cadets that were waking up, they didn't appreciate the bright light of the sun because of their pounding headaches. They had drunk far too much last night and they were regretting it immediately. Some cadets were even shocked to discover that they weren't alone in their beds after having drunken sex.

One person that didn't have either of those problems was Ichigo Kurosaki. The orange haired cadet had managed to get a good sleep in the house that his sisters had been living in with the woman that Kaien had been dating when he was alive. Ichigo was glad that his sisters had been staying in a place like this since it was located behind Wall Rose and when the Titans attacked, his sisters would have plenty of time to retreat to Wall Sina.

"Here you go, Ichigo!" Akira said happily, handing her beloved big brother a plate with two pieces of toast.

"Thanks, Akira." Ichigo replied gratefully, taking his seat at the kitchen table. After taking a few bites of his toast, the orange haired soldier looked up and he grinned at the sight of Tsukiko entering the room in her pyjamas and her out of control bed hair. Her hair had gotten longer over the last few years and he could barely see her face due to how out of control it was. He thought that Denryū's had been the worst he had seen, but that opinion was immediately changed. "You look lovely today, 'Kiko." Ichigo greeted her.

"Shut up," Tsukiko mumbled tiredly, rubbing her eyes. "What's for breakfast?"

"Toast!" Akira answered her cheerfully, immediately handing her sister her own plate of toast.

Tsukiko mumbled something about having toast yesterday, but she didn't hesitate to dig into her breakfast.

"You haven't told us yet, Ichigo," Akira took her seat at the table, devouring her own breakfast. "But what military force are you joining?"

Ichigo froze mid bite. He had dreaded this moment for a couple of years now because he was afraid at how his sisters would react. He quickly shook his head and he prepared himself for their reactions. While he knew that this was going to be a tough talk, he knew that he could handle it. The tough talk that he and Mikasa had to have back in 749 after their spar turned into something more was much more uncomfortable than this.

"I'm joining the Scouting Legion." Ichigo answered her honestly.

Tsukiko choked on her food for a moment before looking at him with wide eyes. Ichigo was confident that Tsukiko would understand his reasons and accept his decision with few tears. Akira, on the other hand, won't take the news so calmly and so he wasn't surprised when he saw her eyes widen in horror.

"Why?" Tsukiko narrowed her eyes at him, suddenly fully alert. It was hard for Ichigo to take her seriously though, with how messed up her hair was.

"You can't!" yelled Akira, with tears in her eyes, interrupting Ichigo's chance to explain. "I've seen them all leave over the last couple of years and so many don't come back! I don't want you to go out there!"

Ichigo closed his eyes for a moment and he took a deep breath as he prepared to explain, "I know what the odds is, Akira," he said gently, "but this is something that I have to do. All of Eren's ranting may get annoying, but he is right. If by the off chance that I can help eradicating the Titans, no matter how small my contribution may be, then it will be worth it as you both won't have to live in fear."

Tsukiko sighed and looked down at her leftover toast. A small smile appeared on her face, it was just like Ichigo to do whatever it took to protect them. By no means did she want Ichigo to join the Scouting Legion but she knew that she wouldn't be able to convince him to not go through with it. He was far too stubborn.

Akira, however, wasn't going to give up without a fight. "It wasn't Titans that took our mother away." she reminded him, "There is always the chance that someone could hurt us again but at least we can be together and protect each other!"

"This isn't the same." Ichigo rebutted quickly, "You have been trained by me and Anka over the last few years to be able to protect yourselves against other people. Titans are far more powerful and much harder to fight against. I believe in both of your abilities to protect yourself should more men like those come after you again."

Akira shook her head fiercely and she launched herself out of her chair into her startled brother's arms. A sad smile formed on Ichigo's face as he felt her tears soak his shirt and he rubbed her back comfortingly. A few moments later, Ichigo was surprised when he felt Tsukiko lift his arm up and she ducked under it, joining the hug. The family of three stayed huddled up for a good ten minutes before Ichigo broke it. In those ten minutes, Akira tried every argument that she could think of to convince Ichigo to join the Garrisons but the rebutted them all. He needed to join the Scouting Legion.

Once Akira and Tsukiko were back in their seats, Ichigo looked into Tsukiko's downcast eyes and Akira's red eyes from all of her crying and he gave them a confident, reassuring grin, "Don't worry, I'm not going to die anytime soon." Ichigo promised them.

The rest of breakfast was a subdue affair and Ichigo eventually had to leave. He had been assigned to wall duty on Wall Rose. The thought that he didn't have to work until he picked the military force he wanted to join had entered his mind briefly but that dream was quickly shattered when he received his orders after the graduation ceremony. Eren, Armin and Mikasa also had duties to attend to.

When Ichigo left the house and felt the warm sunlight hit his face, it managed to cheer him up slightly, judging by the small smile that appeared on his face. He had always loved a nice, warm, sunny day. He glanced back at the house, his smile fell away immediately, and he felt guilty for having to leave after such an emotional talk.

It had been over a year since he had felt this rotten after a big talk but fortunately, in the end, things worked out and it actually helped strengthen Mikasa and his bond. He couldn't help but think back to what happened back then. He could still remember the lead up to the event, what happened, the fallout and the reconciliation as if it only happened recently.

Flashback – 749, Trost District

14 year old, Ichigo grunted as Mikasa placed another wooden crate on top of the one that he was already holding and he carried it over towards the wagon. It was filled with cans of food and tanks of fuel for the 3DMG that were to be sent out to the Scouting Legion. When he reached the wagon, Eren was already there preparing to take a crate off of it. The crates on the wagon were filled with empty fuel tanks that needed to be refilled. He looked surprised that Ichigo was able to carry two heavy crates at once and he was even further shocked that Mikasa was able to carry three. He was struggling to carry one filled with empty tanks.

Once Mikasa placed the crates on the wagon, she attempted to assist Eren by taking his crate, but Eren harshly pushed her away.

"Hey, leave it!" Eren snapped at her, but she ignored him and attempted to take it once again but she was shoved away. "Leave it!"

Ichigo sighed at the two of them, ignoring the uncomfortable in his chest at their interaction. He didn't understand what he had felt towards Mikasa over the last year but he knew that something had changed because she was more than just a friend to him now.

"Excuse me..." a soft voice interrupted them and they turned to see a middle aged woman carrying a basket staring at them hesitantly. "Do you know if Jean Kirstein is around?"

"Yeah, he is inside the cafeteria." Ichigo answered her, and he pointed to the door that would lead her there.

"Thank you." The woman said gratefully and she headed inside.

The fight was forgotten as Mikasa and Eren shared a curious glance with each other, causing Ichigo to sigh. "You guys go ahead," he assured them. "I can finish up here."

Eren quickly followed the woman into the cafeteria and Mikasa followed him but not before giving Ichigo an 'are you sure?' look that Ichigo easily deciphered and he responded with a quick nod. Mikasa smiled at him before going after Eren.

"You're really into her, aren't you?"

Ichigo spun around to see Marco leaning against the edge of the wagon, a sad, understanding smile on his freckled face.

"What're you talking about?" Ichigo narrowed his eyes at him.

Marco shook his head and he walked over to the orange haired cadet, "Let me give you a hand."

Ichigo was grateful for the help but he still wasn't going to let Marco off the hook, "What do you mean I'm into her? She's my friend!"

Marco chuckled lightly, lifting a crate off the wagon, "That doesn't matter. Friends can fall for each other. Although it must be hard for you considering how close Eren and Mikasa are. They say that they are family but none of us have been able to truly figure out if that is all they truly feel for each other."

Ichigo couldn't argue with that. When they were younger it was easy to accept at how close they were but as they grew older, Ichigo couldn't deny that he felt jealous that they seemed much too close to be brother and sister. The only thing that helped Ichigo control his jealously to conceal it from Mikasa and Eren was that Eren was so driven to kill all the Titans that he may not pay attention to those kinds of feelings.

The orange haired cadet wouldn't admit that he was jealous out loud though. "Eren's only interested in getting stronger to fight the Titans... He doesn't strike me as the type that is interested in having a girlfriend but if Eren and Mikasa do get together, then I will be happy for them." Ichigo informed him firmly.

Marco looked at him surprised, "You're sure?"

"Yes!" Ichigo snapped at him, picking up a crate off the wagon.

"Huh?" Marco muttered with wide eyes, "I guess I was mistaken about you."

Ichigo turned his back and smirked, glad that he had been able to get off this topic. Unfortunately for him, Marco had a sudden realisation and a teasing grin formed on his face.

"I see, if you don't have feelings for Mikasa, then it's Annie that you like!"

Ichigo's eyes widened at the declaration and he almost dropped the crate in shock, but he just managed to keep hold of it. If he hadn't, he probably would have broken at least a toe.

"Annie?!" Ichigo spluttered in shock, "Where the hell did that come from?!"

Marco placed a crate onto the wagon, "Apart from Mikasa, Annie is the only other girl that you really interact with. You two spar together all the time."

Ichigo grunted, lowering the crate onto the ground, "She just wants to get stronger and so I am helping her. Plus she has some interesting fighting moves that I have picked up. That's all!" Ichigo said strongly.

Marco didn't seem to buy it, though. "It's nothing to be embarrassed about." he assured the orange haired cadet, "I know that we are here to train to join the military and fight the Titans but it's understandable that we get distracted by the opposite sex. Pretty much every guy in the squad is interested in someone. Jean has made it obvious that he is interested in Mikasa," Marco grinned at the disgruntled look on Ichigo's face, "despite her lack of interest in him. Connie has a crush on Sasha, Thomas on Mina. Don't get me started on Reiner's feelings for Krista, but I guess you can't blame him." Marco chuckled awkwardly, a light blush on his face, "I'm also pretty sure that Bertolt likes Annie."

"Enough!" Ichigo snapped thoroughly annoyed, "First of all... how do you know all this? Second of all, I'm not interested in either Mikasa or Annie! I'm not interested in anyone as a matter of fact!"

Shirosaki scoffed in his head, "That's the biggest lie you've ever said. You have a thing for them both." Ichigo's inner self fell silent for a moment, before mock sniffing, "My boy is into two girls... I'm so proud."

'Shut up!' Ichigo was starting to get incredibly frustrating with this discussion, especially since he knew that they were right. It was a topic that he hated talking about, especially with Shirosaki, since he was really the only one he could talk to about it. He was ashamed for feeling this way about them, Mikasa had been his friend for a long time and he couldn't believe that he was thinking of her in a sexual way.

It was slightly different with Annie. Ichigo didn't know much about her past, except for the fact that her father was the one that taught her to fight and that she seemed to both love and resent her father. The interaction that they really only had was their constant sparring matches and Ichigo couldn't deny that he was attracted to her. Ichigo realised that Annie and Mikasa were actually a lot alike, more than either of them wanted to admit. Like Mikasa, Ichigo never acted on his attraction with Annie. He didn't know how Mikasa felt about him and how she really felt about Eren and that stopped him from even thinking about acting on his feelings. With Annie, it was different. He knew that it was a one sided attraction on his part and he discovered this during one of their sparring sessions. In order to counter one of her attacks, he accidently grasped one of her butt cheeks and flipped her over him. He hadn't realised it at the time until after he had thrown her. Annie hadn't appreciated this and hadn't talked to him for two weeks. Whenever she had been forced into a position to talk to him when they were alone, all she did was call him a pervert.

"I hang around them all, of course." Marco interrupted his thoughts, answering his previous question. "I notice the signs and of course whenever they get drunk, they tend to spill their secrets."

"Drunk? Reiner and Bertolt?" Ichigo skeptically questioned him. Despite them being older than him and most of the other cadets, he had never seen them drunk. Sure they drank alcohol but they didn't drink enough to become intoxicated.

"No, they are mostly guesses." Marco chuckled lightly, "Everyone else revealed their crushes when drunk, except Jean, he isn't exactly subtle about his crush on Mikasa."

Ichigo shook his head, and he hurriedly began stacking crates onto the wagon. He had enough of this conversation.

Flashback – Later that Night

Ichigo was bored, very bored.

Eren was off hanging with Bertolt, no doubt trying to learn something new about the military training. Bertolt and Reiner were among the best soldiers in the squad so it made sense for Eren to go to one of them. Denryū was nowhere in sight, not that Ichigo particularly cared. Reiner, Connie, Armin, Sasha, Jean and Annie were off doing this crazy cooking match but he had no interest in checking it out. He was quite surprised that Annie was participating in something like that.

Fortunately for him, there was one person that was free tonight and that Mikasa. When he first went to her room to find it empty, he immediately knew where she would be and so he immediately went to the training rooms.

He came across a locked door and he knocked on it, "Mikasa, you in here?" the orange haired cadet called out.

Ichigo heard the sound of the door unlocking before it was swung open and the sight took Ichigo's breath away. There stood Mikasa in nothing more than a pair of purple shorts, fingerless gloves and most noticeably, wearing a white sports bra. He was able to get a clear picture at her lean yet muscular body and her abs, which may put off some men, but Ichigo thought that they suited her perfectly.

"Doing some training, are you?" squeaked Ichigo, a blush of embarrassment forming on his face at the sound of his own voice. Shirosaki snickered in his head.

Mikasa gave him a curious tilt of her head, having never heard Ichigo say something in such a squeaky voice. She couldn't deny that she found it amusing.

"Yeah," Mikasa smiled slightly, "Want to spar?"

Ichigo didn't trust himself to speak, in case that damn voice came out again and he nodded. He had nothing better to do. When Mikasa turned around, allowing him to come him, Ichigo's eyes shamefully fell to her backside.

"She is smoking." Shirosaki whistled.

Ichigo tore his eyes away from Mikasa. 'Shut up!' he snapped at Shirosaki. He already knew that, and he didn't need him commenting on it. He wiped some sweat that had suddenly appeared on his forehead and he suddenly realised that the room was quite warm. That didn't surprise. Mikasa was willingly to do anything to get strong and one of the ways was to make the room warmer to increase the difficulty of her training.

Deciding to make things a little easier, he took off his jacket and shirt leaving him in only his brown pants. One of the problems with the uniform was that it was heavy and hot and under these conditions, it wouldn't be idle to wear it. In the process of removing his shirt, he didn't see Mikasa's eyes wandering his upper body with interest, and the light blush that appeared on her face.

"Okay," Ichigo smirked, raising his arms up in a defensive stance, "Show me what you've got."

Mikasa shot towards him, throwing a punch to his face but it was evaded, and Ichigo followed up by ducking under her right hook. Mikasa brought her knee up towards his knee but Ichigo crossed his arms under his chin and blocked the kick. With a quick manoeuvre, Ichigo grabbed the leg that she tried to kick with and flipped her over him but Mikasa landed into a hand stand before gracefully flipping back onto her feet. Ichigo was forced to block the next barrage of punches and kicks, flinching every her blows made contact with his arms. It continued to amazing at just how much sheer power Mikasa had behind her blows. After deflecting another punch, Ichigo made a fatal mistake. His eyes were drawn to her bouncing breasts, freezing him for a moment before Mikasa slipped a punch into his stomach. Ichigo managed to catch Mikasa's wrist when she attempted to continue her attack with a punch to his head, but his footing was off and along with her momentum caused Ichigo to fall back towards the floor. He pulled a startled Mikasa with him.

Ichigo landed on his back with Mikasa lying right on top of him and they were both breathing heavily. When Ichigo had come looking for a spar, he hadn't planned on it getting that intense but they both really got into it. Ichigo suddenly realised the position that they were in, he could feel her breath on his lips and her covered breasts pressing into his chest. He knew that he should roll her off him and gain some distance, but he didn't do it because he thoroughly enjoyed the feeling of her body lying on top of his.

A:N - Very Light Smut Scene

"Ichigo..." Mikasa murmured softly, staring intently into his eyes. She was suddenly aware that he wasn't wearing a shirt and she was only in a bra and shorts. However despite the embarrassment of her position, she couldn't pull away, nor could she break eye contact with him. This was the guy that had saved her life, the guy that pulled her out of the darkness... the guy that she had unshakable faith in.

Mikasa couldn't resist and she pressed her lips softly to his. It was a light, and hesitant kiss but it was enough to convey everything that she felt for him. When she pulled away, Ichigo could see the fear in her eyes, scared of his reaction, but she didn't need to be. Ichigo immediately lifted his head up and lightly kissed her back. He had absolutely no idea what he was doing and he relied heavily on his instincts.

When he pulled away, Mikasa looked down at him with a light blush on her face and she didn't hesitate to eagerly kiss him again. This time she was no longer hesitant, and this time the kiss was fiercer and more passionate.

After a few minutes where they just lay there with Mikasa on top, kissing passionately, Ichigo gained a moment of clarity when their lips broke away. He tried to end this before it went too far and he tried to push her away but Mikasa ignored his attempt by claiming his lips again in a heated kiss. In that moment, Ichigo gave in to his desire, thrilled that Mikasa seemed to feel the same way and he experimentally ran his tongue along her bottom lip.

Mikasa ran one of her hands through his orange locks and her other hand along his naked torso, loving the feel of his hard chest. The black haired girl grinned into the kiss when she felt his hardening member on her thigh and she adjusted her waist so she was sitting directly on his member and she slowly began to grind on it. Not for a moment did she break from the kiss.

Ichigo moaned into mouth when he felt her grind him and he slowly caressed the back of her thighs with his hands. His tongue prodded her mouth and to his delight, she opened her mouth to give him better access. Their passion and eagerness easily made up for their inexperience and their tongues danced. When Ichigo's hands cupper her thighs, just under her buttocks, he hesitated, breaking the kiss and he pulled back to look in her eyes, wanting to know if he had permission to continue.

Mikasa whimpered at the loss of his lips on hers and she answered his unasked question by grabbing one of his hands and placing it on her backside. She moaned lightly at the feeling and with wide eyes, Ichigo clenched her cheek slightly, amazed at the soft feeling. Considering how muscular she was, Ichigo was surprised at how soft her backside was and he didn't hesitate to claps her free cheek with his other hand. As amazing as this felt, he knew he wouldn't last much longer because of how she was grinding on his member and so he flipped her onto her back, taking control.

Mikasa gasped in surprise at the sudden change and Ichigo's hands moved from her backside to her waist. Then they slowly slid up her stomach, closing in on her breasts and he hesitated when he reached her bra. Mikasa looked up at him, there was only lust and delight in her eyes, and when she gave him a small smile, Ichigo didn't hesitate. The orange haired cadet hurriedly pulled off her exercise bra and he threw it to the other side of the room.

Mikasa giggled slightly at his eagerness but her amusement immediately ceased when she noticed Ichigo staring at her intently. His eyes intently looked over her naked torso, in awe of her abs that suited her perfectly, the handful size and perkiness of her breasts. He had never seen such a beautiful sight in his life.

Mikasa blushed after he did nothing but stare at her for a few seconds, "What is it?" she shyly asked him, and she looked away. The usually tough girl was suddenly feeling very insecure about her appearance. Over the past few months, she had overheard boys talking about girls and sex and suddenly she was very self conscious of her abs. It was a feature that she had that guys wouldn't like and she feared that Ichigo was about to realise how ugly it was.

"You're gorgeous." Ichigo whispered sincerely, looking directly into her eyes. "No, gorgeous doesn't cover it. I can't find any words to describe just how amazing you are."

In his own mind, Shirosaki rolled his eyes at the cheesy line. However he kept quiet, not wanting to interrupt the special moment that Ichigo was having.

Mikasa knew Ichigo better than anyone, and she was easily able to identify whenever he was being sincere and when he was lying. Her heart felt like it was going to burst out of her chest in happiness when she heard the sincerity in his voice and she gave him the most passionate kiss she could give him. Mikasa tried to lift her hips in order to grind into his member again and Ichigo put one hand on her waist to stop her. Her legs wrapped around his waist, and Ichigo drove his hardened member along her covered core.

"Ichigo..." Mikasa whispered his name longingly, breaking the kiss.

Ichigo had never heard her say his name in such a breathless and loving tone before and all he knew was that he wanted to hear it again and again and again. He had never wanted anything more in his life. He managed to reign himself in though and ceased his thrusting before he released. With his free hand, he cupped her right breast and gently squeezed it, marvelling at how firm it was. Mikasa let out an approving moan and Ichigo stared at the nipple of the breast in his hands. Unable to resist, he lowered his head and gently nibbled the nipple. Mikasa arched her back, groaning loudly at how nice it felt. Just as Ichigo released his grip on her waist and proceeded to rub her remaining breast with it –

*SLAM SLAM*

The loud knock on the locked door killed the moment entirely and Ichigo jumped off her and Mikasa instinctively raised her arms in front of her breasts.

"Will you hurry up and finish training in there?!" a loud voice shouted outside the room, "Some of us want to get some training in tonight!"

Mikasa hurriedly put her bra and shirt back on and Ichigo also changed back into the uniform he had been wearing when he came in. It took them under a minute to get fully dressed and Mikasa opened the door and allowed some older soldiers in to use the training room. Ichigo followed Mikasa out of the room, with his hands in his pockets in an attempt to hide the evidence of his reaction to what he and Mikasa had been really doing in there.

Once they were in the clear, Ichigo looked over at Mikasa and it sunk in just what they had done. What he had done to his friend.

Their eyes made contact, but there was no continuing what they had just done. The moment had past.

"I think we need to talk about what just happened." said Ichigo reluctantly. It was like a bucket of cold water had just been dumped on him and he began to comprehend what they had just done. How would Eren react to what they had just done? Would he be angry like a protective brother or would he be furious as a jealous guy that had feelings for Mikasa? Would his friendship with Eren be over? Armin was Eren's friend first... what would he say about this?

Mikasa nodded, like Ichigo, she was unable to believe what just happened. "Do we just ignore this?" she asked him, wonderingly. They were here to train and fight the Titans, not to fall in love. Eren needed her to be as strong as possible in order to protect him, even though he didn't wish it. Mikasa had made a promise to Carla that she would protect Eren no matter what and she couldn't allow herself to be distracted like this. No matter how much she may want it.

"We could," Ichigo conceded, "or we could just get this out in the open and go from there."

Mikasa remained silent and Ichigo understood that he would have to make the first move.

"I'm not going to deny that I have feelings for that go beyond friendship," Ichigo informed, blushing slightly in embarrassment. It didn't help that Shirosaki was laughing at him internally. "However –"

"You also have feelings for Annie." a blunt Mikasa interrupted him, a dangerous glint in her eyes.

Ichigo's eyes widened briefly, "I was going to say that getting strong enough to protect my sisters was my main priority." he admitted softly, not anticipating Mikasa's astute interruption. Ichigo could look anyone in the eye and be able to lie to them... everyone but one, and it was the girl standing before him. "I am attracted to her, somewhat." Ichigo reluctantly admitted.

Mikasa looked away, a scowl instinctively formed on her face at the thought of Ichigo liking Annie.

"What about you?" Ichigo needed to know, "Do you have feelings for me?"

Mikasa didn't answer for a moment, "I wouldn't have done that with you if I didn't, but –"

"You also have those feelings for Eren, too." Ichigo assumed, with a heavy sigh.

Mikasa couldn't meet his eyes, a sign that Ichigo took to say that he was right. "Now things are going to get all complicated and awkward." Ichigo complained loudly, "Perhaps we should take some time apart," the orange haired cadet pondered, "Maybe then we can move on from this."

"Yeah," Mikasa muttered softly in agreement, sadness lacing her voice. Considering that they had been together for so long, it might be best to get some separation for the time being but she knew that it wasn't going to be easy. She could already admit that her feelings towards Ichigo were stronger than the ones she had for Eren, in a romantic and physical sense but at the very least, Eren was her family and she had promised Carla that she would protect him, no matter what. How could she possibly put her own desires in front of the wishes and promise of her adopted mother?

"Man... we are pathetic." Ichigo chuckled, "Worried about our feelings when the human race could be wiped out at any moment."

Mikasa smiled in agreement. It would be the last thing that he said to her for a month, outside of training.

Flashback – A Couple of Weeks Later

"Are you fighting?"

"Did she beat you in a fight and you're sulking?"

"Why aren't you two talking anymore?!"

"Tell us!"

Ichigo grunted, leaning his head back against the headboard of his bed, annoyed by the constant questions of his roommates. Currently Jean, Marco, Reiner, Connie, Thomas and Bertolt surrounded him and all of them were demanding to know what was going on between him and Mikasa. Since the day that the two of them crossed the line between friend and more than friend, they had rarely talked. The only times that they had talked were whenever they were together in training exercise. Needless to say that it had become noticeable among the other members of the squad.

"Will you all quit nagging me?!" Ichigo snapped at them, "This is between me and her and no one else! I've told you all to back off for over a week now! The next person here to ask me about what is going on with Mikasa, I'm going to deck!"

That shut them all up and Ichigo took this chance to storm out of the room. This separation from Mikasa was hard enough without all of them bugging him. Honestly, he hadn't even spent much time with Eren or Armin either and that had been by his doing. He was the one that suggested that they should spend some time apart and so he thought it was only a common courtesy to allow Mikasa to spend more time with them than him.

Another reason was probably because like those idiots just before, whenever he did hang out with either of them, they always tried to bring the Mikasa topic up. The only ones that he could safely hang out with that didn't mention what were going on with Mikasa were Annie and Denryū.

Speaking of Annie, Ichigo saw that she was already at the training grounds, waiting for him. A couple of months into their first year, Ichigo and Annie had sparred and Ichigo defeated her convincingly. From that day on for a couple of weeks, Annie would approach him every day, wanting to train with him. At first he had refused but eventually he relented after she kept persisting.

They trained together about three times a week, all at the same time and that was about an hour after dinner. While majority of cadets used the time between dinner and curfew to relax and hang around with their friends, for those three days, Ichigo and Annie would spar, honing their skills.

"You're late." Annie greeted him coldly, and Ichigo gave her an annoyed look. She had her tied up the usual way and she wore a hooded sweatshirt underneath a jacket accompanied by dark gray pants. "I thought you were going to blow me off." Ichigo could pick up the underlining anger in her cold tone. He shivered at the thought of what she would do to him if he had forgotten to meet her.

"Sorry," Ichigo apologised, "Everyone was ganging up on me asking what happened between me and Mikasa. I threatened to kick their asses if they asked again."

"Using fear is an effective way to get what you want." Annie acknowledged, "I, however, don't care about your personal life. Let's just get started."

Their training lesson only lasted ten minutes as Annie slammed Ichigo into the ground for the third time.

"This is pointless," a blunt Annie declared, staring down at the downed orange haired cadet. "You're clearly not in right mind to train. I've noticed that for the last week, you're skills are getting more sloppy. Like I said earlier, I don't care about your personal life. I don't know what is going on with you and the beast, but sort it out. It's unfortunate that you're the kind of man that allows such nonsense affect your fighting abilities." Annie turned away from him, and she began walking away, "Come back when you're ready to train seriously."

Ichigo sat up and watched her walk away with a scowl on his face. His skills weren't being affected by his separation from Mikasa, he thought stubbornly. He just had one of those weeks where he really couldn't be bothered fighting.

Unknown to him, Denryū had been watching from a far, "It looks like I have found your weakness, Kurosaki." the black haired boy murmured softly, a smirk appearing on his face, "Now the real question is... just what will I do with his knowledge?" He fingered his crossed shaped bracelet, lovingly, "What to do, indeed?"

Flashback – Another Couple of Weeks Later

Ichigo and a few other cadets that he didn't really know had been sent to Trost in order to gain some needed supplies. The group had split up to go get the required equipment. Each month, cadets were sent to collect supplies from the Trost district and bring it back to the academy. The instructors had informed them that the reason the cadets had to do this was to help teach them the way to escort important supplies to a base and how to deal with any problems along the way. For a while all of the cadets thought that this was bullshit until they had a camping mission and Eren's group had been attacked by bandits. In the end, that situation was taken care of by the cadets without any casualties. From that moment on, cadets stopped whining about having to do these missions.

It had been another two weeks of little to interaction with Mikasa and it was beginning to get to Ichigo. Although that he had proven to Annie that it wasn't affecting his fighting skills after he defeated her several times a couple of nights after she stalked off. He just really missed talking with Mikasa, hanging with her, really... he just missed being in her presence. He had thought that by gaining some distance he would be able to work out how he felt between her and Annie but all it did was make his feelings for Mikasa to grow stronger, without lessening the ones that he had for Annie.

Ichigo was so lost in thoughts that he accidently bumped into someone, although the force wasn't enough to knock either of them onto the ground, it was forceful enough that they both had to cease walking.

"I'm sorry; I wasn't looking where I was going." Ichigo quickly apologised to the man. His eyes widened when he took in the man's strange appearance, having rarely seen someone dress up in such a way. He wore a green and white striped bucket hat, he had long blonde hair and he had a lean build. He wore a dark coat, which sported a white diamond pattern along its bottom half, with a dark green shirt and pants underneath and he wore a pair of sandals. He was also carrying a cane.

"Don't worry about it," the man assured him happily, waving a fan in front of his face. "It must have been serious for a soldier to lose focus on his surroundings."

"Yeah, you're right." Ichigo admitted, feeling slightly shameful about causing an obvious slip up. He couldn't get distracted like that, he knew exactly how dangerous humanity could be and that meant that he should always be prepared for an attack.

"A bit of advice from a veteran to an upcoming soldier." The man offered him, "Fear and despair are key elements that will zap a soldier's abilities. These emotions come from all sorts of scenarios and the only way to get over them is to face them head on. Nothing good comes from fear and despair, only heartbreak and death. Remember this saying, 'When you dodge, I won't let them kill me. If you protect someone, I won't let them die. If you attack, I will kill them.' That's the single greatest piece of advice I can give you."

Ichigo looked in awe at the man. He had never heard of a saying like that in his life and he couldn't deny that it just made perfect sense to him. For some reason, he felt that it really suited him.

"You're a veteran soldier? You don't look that old." Ichigo replied, curiously.

"I'm a veteran," the man grinned widely, "I've never considered myself as a soldier, I was much more valuable than that, but now... I am just a humble candy shop owner!"

Ichigo could on respond in one way and that was with a dull look.

The man began to walk off but not before offering one last bit of advice, "Never forget, this life is incredibly short. You should spend less time worrying about things and more time trying to enjoy every minute of your life as you can."

Ichigo was startled by the last piece of advice and when he blinked his eyes, to his astonishment the man had disappeared. "Enjoy every minute of your life, huh?" Ichigo murmured softly, caressing his bracelet. He also grabbed the necklace and he remembered when his sisters had given them these for his birthday. His attention focused in on the black chain bracelet and then he felt his other wrist that had no bracelet. He had given it to Mikasa when they first met... after that horrible night.

Ichigo's eyes widened in horror as he remembered something important about that night. The orange haired cadet cursed and he hurried to the store that he had to go to. 'I am an ass!' Ichigo thought furiously, how could he have forgotten about something so important? Ichigo thought that what he had done with Mikasa a month ago was crossing a line but he had gone ahead and done something far worse.

He had broken the promise that he had made her.

He didn't know what he was going to say but the moment that he saw her, he would know.

Flashback – A few hours later

Ichigo had been restless all through dinner. He had only got back a few minutes ago, but he resisted going over to talk to Mikasa. He would wait until they were alone; it was a private matter, after all. Fortune seemed to smile upon him today, as she, Eren and Armin were among the last to leave. In fact, it seemed that Eren and Mikasa had got into an argument and Ichigo assumed that it was the usual Eren being angry because Mikasa out performed him. Soon Eren stormed off, with Armin following him but Mikasa stayed in her seat, with a sad look on her face.

Ichigo glanced around to see that it was only the two of them left in the large cafeteria room and he walked over to the table that she was sitting at.

"Hey, you okay?" Ichigo slid into seat next to her, startling his best friend. Mikasa looked at him with wide eyes and Ichigo could see the surprise and delight, Ichigo hoped it was delight, shining in her eyes. It was kind of a lame thing to ask but what do you say after a month of no talking?

"Yeah," Mikasa answered softy, not breaking eye contact. It had been a long time since she had been able to look into his comforting hazel eyes. "What about you?"

"What's happening with me doesn't matter." Ichigo brushed that off, he needed to get right into the matter. "I owe you a huge apology, Mikasa."

Mikasa looked confused, "What do you mean?"

"I'm not here to tell you that I have worked out my feelings because that isn't true. However after what happened between us, I forgot about what was really important and that was my promise to you." Ichigo explained to her, and he rested his arm that had his bracelet against her arm that had the other bracelet. Mikasa's eyes widened briefly and she immediately remembered what promise he was referring to. "I promised you that no matter what, I would protect you. I promised that no matter what we will always be friends and that I will always be there for you!" Ichigo said passionately, fiery determination burning in his eyes, "The fact that I forgot about that is unforgivable! And that's why..!" With that, Ichigo turned his hand around so his palm was facing the roof and with his free hand, he pulled out a knife.

"What're you –" Mikasa tried to say but it was too late.

Ichigo slashed his hand open deeply, a blood poured thickly out of his hand. He raised his arm up, his teeth clenching as the pain course through him and the blood descended onto his bracelet, "That's why; I swear to never forget or break that promise ever again. No matter what happens between us, I will always be your friend! I will always be there for you... and I will always protect you!"

Mikasa looked shocked at his declaration for a moment before tears gathered in her eyes, and a smile blossomed her face. The pain in Ichigo's hand vanished for a moment when he felt Mikasa wrap her arms around him and buried her face in his neck. He could feel the tears soak into his neck and he smiled softly.

For the first time in over a month, Ichigo felt whole.

"Not to interrupt the moment or anything," Shirosaki drawled in his head, "but you might want to get the cut stitched up."

When Ichigo broke the hug and told her that he was going to the infirmary to get cut fixed, Mikasa pretty much carried him out, much to his embarrassment.

End of Flashback

Ichigo stared at the hand where the scar was. There was absolutely no chance now that he would ever forget that promise. It was permanently marked on his skin. There was also dried blood staining his bracelet as a further reminder.

Ichigo looked out over the city of Trost. Standing on top of Wall Rose enabled him to have a great view of the entire city. The despair that had engulfed humanity five years ago seemed to have vanished and humanity was once again at peace.

He never thought that he would feel like this again. He had lost his father, his mother and his uncle. The moment that Ichigo had learned of his uncle's fate, he never in a million years thought that he would feel happy again. To be at some kind of peace.

For the first time in years, Ichigo was enjoying life.

The moment of clarity, of peacefulness was suddenly sliced in half by the hand of fate not a moment later.

With wide eyes, Ichigo could only look on in horror as a bright light appear in front of the Trost gates. Even from this distance, there was no mistake to what he was seeing.

The Colossus Titan had appeared before the city of Trost and in a single horrifying moment, the gate separating the humans from the Titans was obliterated.

In a split second, everything was put into perspective.

Ichigo's girl troubles, the confusing feelings he had between Annie and Mikasa were suddenly in the distant past. All of Ichigo's problems in the past three years gave away under the power of the scene before his eyes.

He could feel the phantom heat from the Titans bodies tickle his skin. The phantom smell of their stinking bodies entered his nose. The image of their sickening faces flashed before his eyes.

It was time for humanity to experience Hell once again.

End of Chapter

If you like it then please leave a review. If you don't like it, then don't read it!

Attack on Titan season 2 confirmed! YYYYYYAAAAAAAYYYYYYY!

In 2016... That's too long! I want the second season so freaking much!

Also, it's unfortunate but I am going to have to close the book on the Ichigo x Annie pairing. I attempted to write it in this chapter, that's why I had promised that this chapter would be 10,000 words but it turned out horribly. Far worse than the rest of the crap you read in this chapter. However the interaction between Annie and Ichigo will still be important as they both respect each other and the consequences when Annie's true allegiance is revealed.

On to more pressing news, thanks to the recent chapters, I'm starting to get a better idea on how the Bleach-powered villains will be incorporated into the story.

Kisuke won't play a large part in this story. He will just pop up randomly to give Ichigo advice.

Omake:

Yoruichi leant against the door to the Soul King's throne room with her arms folded under her large breasts, with a wide grin on her face.

Inside of the Soul King's throne room, she could hear objects being thrown into the walls and she could practically feel the Soul King's fury burn in the air.

"What's going on, Yoruichi?" a young man with black hair and dark grey eyes approached her, with a slightly fearful look on his face. Unlike the rest of the royal guards, he wore a white Shihakushō and a black Captain's cloak over it. The man's name is Kurosaki Takeshi, he is Karin's eldest son and he is the only Quincy among the newly formed royal guards. He was a lynchpin in the alliance between Soul Reapers and Quincy.

"The Soul King is throwing a hissy fit, that's all." Yoruichi grinned.

"DAMN YOU, KISUKE!" they heard the Soul King scream and they flinched painfully, covering their ears. His voice probably reached all the way down to the Soul Society.

"What did Kisuke do now?" Takeshi asked her dully.

"He is interfering in the Soul King's game." The feline-like woman answered him, "I don't think we will be seeing Kisuke again for a good while."

In that moment, the large walls surrounding the Royal Realm suddenly fell down back towards the Seireitei.

"Is the Soul Society under attack?" Takeshi frowned in confusion. That was odd, it had been quite peaceful for decades and so he had no idea who would be attacking.

"What is going on?!" The Soul King snapped, after throwing open the doors. It was astonishingly rare for the Soul King to get this emotional.

"Nah, it's no big deal." Shinji Hirako flashed stepped into the room. His hair had grown out back to the length that it had been before he was turned into a Vizard. "I just got a message from the Captain Commander. Apparently the Soul Society heard the Soul King shouting and immediately assumed that they were going to be attacked."

The three royal guards grinned up at the Soul King and if they didn't know any better, they would say that the Soul King looked embarrassed.

The Soul King immediately spun around, "Tell them it's nothing to worry about. I do not wish to be observed." He closed the door to his throne room but while it swung closed, the three royal guards heard him mutter, "When I get a hold of that man for this humiliation..."

The moment the door snapped shot, the three royal guards burst into laughter.

Kisuke Urahara managed to even embarrass the Soul Kings. Was there anything that man can't do?

Answering the Readers:

Q: Will Shiro start to try to take Ichigo over after he unlocks his powers again, or will Shiro remain more of a mentor/friend throughout the story?

How about Shiro be a friend and mentor kind of figure?

A: Shiro at some point will try to take over Ichigo's body. He is Ichigo, or at least a part of him, but unlike Ichigo, he will do whatever it takes to protect those that he cares for. However if Ichigo proves that he is strong enough, then Shiro will happily aid him.

Q: Will some lives be saved thanks to Ichigo's and Denryū's presence?

A: There may be but at the same time, there might be more deaths because of them.

C: Hichigo...wants to protect people...that would be a cold day in hell

A: Not people, just those that Ichigo and he care about. He would slaughter thousands without hesitation, man, woman or child if it meant protecting them. He is a darker and ruthless version of Ichigo, but with the same desire to protect. That's the essence of Ichigo's character.