Buyers benefit. Escrow.com tracks the shipped merchandise and verifies it was delivered. The Seller isn't paid until the Buyer accepts the merchandise, or the inspection period expires. Sellers benefit. Escrow.com confirms when the Buyer receives merchandise.
But I have developed views on them. In my opinion, Rukia and Ichigo's relationship is very...complex. I don't view them as just close friends, but I can't view them in any sort of romance dynamic either. In my opinion, Rukia has a love for Ichigo. And Ichigo has a love for Rukia.
While Ichigo Kurosaki underwent training to gain his own Shinigami powers, Kisuke Urahara puts Ichigo's soul through a process called Encroachment, where if Ichigo does not gain Shinigami powers on his own, he will become a Hollow. Tessai Tsukabishi severs Ichigo's Chain of Fate.