[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]
Kuchiki Rukia: 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]
Kuchiki Rukia: I am not in pain. I am not sad. I have no regrets.
[looks up at Ki-Kou-Ou]
Kuchiki Rukia: And my heart... is not burdened.
[seeing the eyes open wide]
Kuchiki Rukia: Thank you.
[mind-voice quieter w/ each 'thanks' she 'speaks'; we see a flash of Ukitake's group]
Kuchiki Rukia: Thank you.
[a flash of Orihime, Uryu, 'Chad' & Ganju]
Kuchiki Rukia: Thank you.
[Byakuya standing on the side by the Soukyoku, not looking at anything]
Kuchiki Rukia: 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]
Kuchiki Rukia: Good-bye.