Chapter 5: Welcome

That sure was a pain in the butt. What on earth is going on?

Is this really the world of the living?

I hope so, but I don't know anything anymore.

And I know it was a split-second decision, but it was a dangerous move to enter some suspicious building.

It was our only choice. We couldn't let ourselves get beaten down out there.

I know. Anyway, we can't stick around here forever. Let's find another exit.

What's with the commotion?

Sorry, wrong door.

What the heck are you doing?!

There was some stranger in there! Is someone living here?!

Like I'd know! That's why we're looking around!

Over here. I'm going to open this door.

Who is it?

I remember you. You're the one Lord Aizen mentioned: Ichigo.

Run, Renji!

Why did you run off like that all of a sudden?!

Shut up! That lady just now said "Lord Aizen," which means that...

Hello there. Long time no see.

What the heck are you all doing together?!

What are we doing? We're having a New Year's Eve party. Care to join?

Of course not!

And you could at least be clearer about whether it's a New Year's Eve party or a fancy dress party!

Might as well make it more fun since we've made the effort, right?

This isn't fun at all.

Do whatever you want. I'm busy.

We've already discussed this today. We have no intention of fighting you here right now.

It's strange that you've wandered into this place, though.

Could you please leave quickly?

Ichigo, be careful!

Right!

Ichigo, Renji! Over here!

Rukia?!

Ah! Sorry, Ichigo, Renji.

It was really supposed to be a safer surprise party.

A surprise?!

That's right. Welcome to the surprise New Year's Eve party!

Are you two okay?

You look exhausted. What happened?

You're here! The hot pot's ready!

It's Orihime's specialty hot pot. Aren't you happy, Ichigo?

Everyone's here?! Why are you... Wait, what is this place?

The Soul Reapers were having their own thank-you party, so I arranged for a joint gathering to show my appreciation.

Renji seemed free, so I was going to ask him to lead you here, but then I ended up butting heads with a certain group while I was deciding on a venue.

Sorry for putting you in danger. I was late to inform you. No need to worry anymore, though.

A certain group?

Anyway, that aside, I actually came to get some detergent.

Huh? But I asked Ururu to give it to you when you arrived.

I left earlier, so I delivered it to your house.

What was the whole point of me coming here, then?!

Well, you got what you were after in the end, so everything's worked out, right?

I guess.

I even invited your family while I was at it! You should be grateful!

My brother and the others are apparently coming, too. They don't get much time to relax, but they should be able to forget about fighting for a bit.

I'm looking forward to another year with you, Ichigo.

Right.

But I hope I don't have to deal with anything like this next year!