Bleach2004

[facing the released blade of the Soukyoku, "Ki-Kou-Ou", a large fire-bird, before it performs the execution; thinking, calmly]

Kuchiki Rukia:
I am not afraid. I had a good life. [the screen shows her memories as she thinks about each person] Meeting Renji and the others... taken in by Nii-sama... led by Kaien-dono... and... being saved by Ichigo. [pause; now we see her w/ eyes closed & head bowed] I am not in pain. I am not sad. I have no regrets. [looks up at Ki-Kou-Ou] And my heart... is not burdened. [seeing the eyes open wide] Thank you. [mind-voice quieter w/ each 'thanks' she 'speaks'; we see a flash of Ukitake's group] Thank you. [a flash of Orihime, Uryu, 'Chad' & Ganju] Thank you. [Byakuya standing on the side by the Soukyoku, not looking at anything] Thank You. [& an image of Ichigo, facing away wearing his old Soul Slayer's scabbard, completely still except for his hair & robes blowing in the wind; finally we see Rukia's face; despite her peace of mind, she cannot stop the tears coming to her eyes; she blinks & they run down her cheeks; speaking out loud] Good-bye.