Harry and Ichigo stepped out of the hot springs, steam rising off their rejuvenated bodies. Neither had sustained injuries severe enough to linger long, and their natural resilience made the healing process almost trivial.
Ichigo stretched his arms over his head, letting out a satisfied sigh. "Man, those springs are insane. I feel like I could fight a hundred Sternritter right now."
Harry smirked. "Save it for later, hero. Let's go see what Kirio's cooking up. I heard her food is legendary."
The two made their way to Kirio Hikifune's domain, the enticing aroma of her culinary creations growing stronger with each step.
Kirio greeted them warmly, her motherly demeanor putting them at ease. She gestured toward a massive table laden with an assortment of dishes, each one more mouthwatering than the last.
"Dig in, boys!" Kirio said, her smile radiant. "I made plenty for both of you."
Ichigo didn't need to be told twice. He immediately began piling his plate high with food, muttering praises as he ate. Harry, meanwhile, took his time, savoring each bite. Kirio's cooking wasn't just delicious—it had a revitalizing effect, like it was imbued with spiritual energy.
Halfway through the meal, Ichigo paused, glancing around. "Uh, where's the bathroom?"
Kirio pointed toward the far edge of her domain. "On the other side of the island. It's a bit of a walk, but you'll find it."
Ichigo groaned, shoving a final bite of food into his mouth before bolting out the door. "Who designs a place like this?!" he yelled as he disappeared into the distance.
Kirio chuckled, turning her attention back to Harry. Her gaze lingered on him, a playful glint in her eye.
As Harry continued eating, Kirio leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand. "You know, Harry, you've got a way of making even the simplest meal enjoyable."
Harry raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Compliments will get you everywhere."
Kirio laughed, winking at him. Without another word, she slipped beneath the tablecloth, vanishing from sight.
Harry froze for a moment, then let out a low chuckle. "Well, you're full of surprises, aren't you?"
The meal continued, albeit with a… unique addition to the experience. Harry maintained his composure, calmly finishing his plate while occasionally glancing down with an amused expression.
By the time Kirio emerged from beneath the tablecloth, she was positively glowing, her smile smug and satisfied.
"Thank you for indulging me," she said, her voice soft but teasing. "I hope the meal was to your liking."
Harry leaned back, grinning. "Your cooking's incredible. And you're pretty good at sneaking around too. I might just have to keep you around."
With their bellies full and spirits high, Harry and Ichigo made their way to Ōetsu Nimaiya's domain. The palace was unlike anything they had ever seen, its vibrant, neon-lit style a stark contrast to the serene elegance of Kirio's place.
The Zanpakuto creator himself greeted them at the entrance, his energy as electric as his surroundings.
"Yo, yo, yo! Welcome to the coolest spot in the Soul King's palace!" Nimaiya exclaimed, throwing his arms wide. "You're lookin' at the one and only Ōetsu Nimaiya, the man who made all your zanpakuto dreams come true!"
Ichigo blinked, his expression a mix of confusion and mild irritation. "Why is this place so… loud?"
Harry chuckled, clapping Ichigo on the shoulder. "You're just not used to a little flair, kid. Relax."
As they stepped inside, they were immediately surrounded by a group of zanpakuto spirits, each one taking on a human form. They were stunning, their presence radiating power and beauty.
Harry took in the scene with an appreciative nod. "Now this is style. You've got good taste, Nimaiya."
Ichigo, meanwhile, looked like he wanted to crawl under a rock. The zanpakuto spirits were eyeing him curiously, some giggling at his awkwardness.
"Why do I feel like a zoo exhibit?" Ichigo muttered, his face red.
Harry smirked, giving him a light shove. "Because you are. Just enjoy the attention."
The day ended with Ichigo grumbling about Nimaiya's eccentricity while Harry seemed to be having the time of his life. Despite the stark differences in their reactions, both men couldn't deny the importance of the journey they were on.
As they settled in for the night, Harry glanced at Ichigo with a sly grin. "You know, this might just be the most fun I've had in a while."
Ichigo groaned, pulling a blanket over his head. "You're impossible."
Harry laughed, leaning back against the wall. "And you're predictable. Get some sleep, kid. Tomorrow's going to be even more interesting."