Much Needed Vacation

[Yuri Nakayama]

Ooc| Since the main storyline hasn't progressed for some time, it will be put on hold. Future posts will be dealing with this new arc unless otherwise stated.

It was like any other day. A clear sky and a very peaceful atmosphere. However, something seemed missing. Something needed to be done to take away the boredom. As of right now, Yuri was in her own apartment in the real world to more or less blend in. She was in the real world to check and see how everything was doing and to make sure the town was safe from Hollows. It's all we ever do. Kill one hollow, kill the next.. Over and over. It gets kinda tiring after a while. Hm.. How can this be solved?

She sat down on the couch, crossing her arms as she stared up at the ceiling as she thought. Well, we all need a break once in a while.. Hm. Break.. Break equals time off. Time off equals.. Vacation! Yeah! That's perfect! I wonder if the Commander General will agree with it. It's just for a few days, right? Where would the vacation be? It couldn't be too far away from the town. Though they were gonna be on vacation, they still had to be within reach of the city just in case a hollow decides to come out of nowhere. What's a perfect place? Hm.. I know! The Beach! The same spot Ronin and Nori took me!

She jumps up , getting her soul phone, making a call to Soul Society. "I was wondering if it's alright for me, Jiro, and Shukumei took a few days off for a vacation? It won't be far from town. Yeah? I could make night patrols to make up for what tie we don't search in the day. So we have the go ahead? For how long? A week? Thank you so much Commander General! Everything was perfect. Now all she had to do was starting fixing things and gettign everything ready. She knew the exact person to contact. Yuri picked up the phone in the apartment after finding a piece of paper with a number on it. Azumi had given her the number in case she needed anything while she was in the world of the living.

"Hey Azumi, how's everything? Yuri quickly moved the phone from her ear as she heard Azumi scream more or less from being excited that she called. After she calmed down, Yuri went back to talking. "I just had a good idea. Let's go on a vacation to the beach! I was hoping you could help me surprise the others with it. Especially Shukumei and Ryouji. It's been a while since they've been out, I'm sure. The Commander General said it was alright if we had a week, but at the end of each day I had to do a patrol. I think it's only fair. You think you could come over and help me make some snacks? Uh.. No one is over right now. It's just me. Cooking materials? Uh.. hold on just a moment."

Since the phone was cordless, she could travel to the kitchen to take a look into the refrigerator. She opens the door to take a look. "Let's see.. Eggs, ham.. cheese.. some different kinds of meat.. Enough to make a lot of things. Maybe we can make some desserts too. So how long will it be until you get here? Ah okay. I'll start preparing what I can. Just wait? Alright alright, I'll wait. I'll call in the others and you bring in Ryouji, alright?" As she hung up the phone, she giggled in excitement. It was going to be so much fun. Now she spends the rest of time calling Jiro and Shukumei and anyone else she could think of to get them to come over to the apartment.

[Azumi Onigata]

After getting off of the phone with Yuri, Azumi turned over to Ryouji who was sitting there waiting on her hand and foot, though it was for good reason. It feels like it had been forever since she's seen everyone, so the idea for the beach was perfect.

"Honey, that was Yuri, she got clearance for a little vacation and since its been what six months since we've seen everyone. I think it would do us some good to see everyone and catch up. Mei-mei has been so busy tracking the arrancars and I'm sure Jiro and Yuri have had their hands busy with keeping the town safe. We need a little fun. Will you help me stand? I want to gather some things."

With Ryouji's help, Azumi stood up, she was eight months pregnant now and she felt as big as Karakura town itself. She waddled into the kitchen and opened it up. Now that she was eating for two, the refridgerator was overly stocked on food. Grabbing the basket she leaves on top of the fridge itself, she begins stockpiling it with a little bit of everything, bread, lettuce and of course, pickles. With that taken care of.

"Oh my I can't wear a swimsuit can I? Well you know I am pregnant and I am proud of it and if others don't like it, to bad!!"

She didn't know why she asked, he never cared what people though of him and he couldn't assume that she didn't care what people thought. She was always the friendly, fun kind of girl and Ryouji was just...Ryouji.

Azumi went into the bedroom to change. She had the perfect bathing suit to wear. After finding it, she had begun to change. It was a Red and orange two piece bikini with a matching long skirt. She looked down at her stomach and and rubbed it gently.

Now she just had to find a matching pair of sandles to wear. She couldn't bend over and Ryouji walked into the room at just the right time. In fact she hadn't see them in a long time. Then she remembered that they were under the bed.

"My sandles are under the bed, can you put them on for me."

She giggled, but she felt bad at the same time. Ryouji was going through so much to make her feel comfortable. Though she couldn't feel to bad, it was partially his fault that she is the way she is. After having her sandles put on she stood up. Now all she needed was her beach chair since she wasn't planning on being physically active at all. She waddled her way into the kitchen and grabbed the basket with the extra food supplies.

She grabbed her giant cup and filled it with ice cold water with her flexible straw. Once she had everything,she stood and waited at the door for Ryouji. Ryouji followed carrying her beach chair. She handed him the basket and once making sure they had everything, the two left their home and made their way across town to meet with Yuri at her apartment.

After walking for quite sometime the couple finally arrived at Yuri's apartment. Good thing there wasn't a lot of steps or anything. Once knocking on the door they stood by waiting for her to answer.

"Hehehe the baby is kicking, she's going to be a strong one. You aren't going to be the type of father who is over protective are you? What if she brings a date or something home, are you going to try and hurt him?"

When she saw Ryouji's expression, hers changed to one of dread. Even though he didn't say anything, she knew good and well that he was going to be the most overprotective father on the face of the planet. I guess it could be a good thing, but she hoped it wouldn't strain there future relationship. She did know that he would be a great father.

[Yuri Nakayama]

While there was still time, Yuri was cleaning up the house, making sure that everything was neat and clean. She looks over to the clock as soon as she heard knocking. "My, that was quick." She opens the door, helping them bringing everything in, setting it down. "Well, I thought the beach would be a good idea since this place isn't that far from it. Guess I chose it since I could still hear the ocean. It's peaceful to listen to at night." Of course this was gonna be a bit childish, but hey, being childish is alright once in a while, right?

Without much warning, she tackles Ryouji on the floor, hugging him tightly. The way she was acting, it was like she hadn't seen him in years. "It's been forever! I missed you! Why couldn't you come over often? Or Called?" She had him by his shirt, shakign him just a little. She remembered the last time she shook him. MAde the poor guy dizzy and a bit senseless. Of course she wasn't mad, but just playing around for old time sake. "Nah, I understand you've been busy." She got up, stretching, soon forgetting he was on the floor. She was reminded when she looked down. "Hehe.. oops.. It's just like that time looong ago when I thought he took something of mine. I shook him senseless. It seems the same thing happened again, but I barely shook him.."

She chuckled nervously, putting the food in the refrigerator so it wouldn't spoil. Yuri then goes over to Azumi, giving her a light hug. It was then she noticed how far along she was. "It's nice to see that you and Ryouji are gonna have a family. I have to admit, I'm kinda jealous. Well, I'm sure things will happen when they're ready, right?" It was obvious Yuri was trying to resist the urge to rub Azumi's stomach. It just seemed so.. there, after all. "Uh.. What are you going to do about Ryouji?"

[Azumi Onigata]

Azumi giggled upon watching Yuri tackle Ryouji to the floor. It was safe to say by the way he took the hit, he wasn't expecting it to happen at all. She never quite understood how someone who has fought and killed countless Hollows, couldn't handle being shaken. It was kind of embarassing. Though it was for good reason, with Azumi keeping Ryouji all to herself, it was natural that Yuri would probably miss him. Though it was good that she didn't apologize for doing it. Maybe she did learn that lesson to stop apologizing for things she wasn't in control of.

"I'll wake him up in a moment. I must say Yuri, you're looking well even though its only been six months, it looks like you've grown up quite a bit. You're becoming a woman. Your apartment is great. I'm glad to see that your mission funds are going toward something quite spectacular"

Then she heard Yuri say that she was kind of jealous that Azumi of her family. It caused her to smile a little. There was nothing to be jealous of, if she enjoyed over eating and having swollen feet, then...well it was kind of a silly thing to be jealous over, but she knew the point.

"There is no reason to be jealous, you are family to me as well. Don't rush things though, take your time. I've put in centuries with this big oaf. When the time is right. You will have a family of your own, but for now, Squad three still needs its captain! Speaking of Captains, have you been able to contact Mei-mei? I haven't spoken to her much lately, she's been very busy running back and forth to the Soul Society and tracking the Arrancar. I've only seen her a few times well the last time we were all at Urahara shop"

Azumi waddled over to the sofa and sat down. She slouched a bit and placed her hands on her belly. Honestly the sofa was so comfortable she had forgotten all about Ryouji until she saw him laying there. She sighed before leaning over as best she could, once she could reach, she slapped his face and yelled for him to get up.

"Silly, Ryouji you should have know that she was going to do something like that. Now lets start making things to eat because I'm starving. Do you want to make the sandwiches Yuri while I make the deserts?"

[Shukumei Onigata]

Having kept herself quite busy over the past six months, Shukumei has been doing everthing within her power to find the Arrancar. It was strange...there was no sign of recent activity at all. Its as if they've vanished comletely. Hollow Activity is down to an all time low, which is a good thing. It was just strange and it was something that bothered her.

"This is a different tactic all together...what are they up to. Its not like Shiva to vanish off the grid completely, but I suppose if they aren't terrorizing this city then it doesn't matter. I wonder how Azumi's doing. I've neglected my friends and family this entire time."

Her soul phone rang, she glanced down at her sleeve before reaching reaching in to grab it. She flipped it open slowly and placed it to her ear to answer the call.

"Yes? A vacation...I don't need a vacation right now, what I need is to find the Arrancar...do I really have to? Captain Nakayama requested it huh? Alright fine, I suppose a few days wouldn't kill me. I'll get to see my friends and family again. Thank you for telling me."

Closing the phone, she placed it back into her sleeve and side before rubbing the back of her head. Should she bring her 'friend' as well? Eh she would much rather find out what was going on all together before dropping in unexpected. Shukumei narrowed her eyes and turned her head back slightly. She scoffed before lowering her head.

"How long have you been standing there?"

Shukumei turned around and looked down at the ground as a clone of her brother started to take shape from her shadow. She folded her arms and shook her head. It was pointless for him to even attempt to hide, even though its not really her brother, they all still carry the same spiritual pressure.

"So whats going on with this vacation thing?"

The clone moved closer to Shukumei before kneeling down beside her.

"Apparently, little Yuri requested from the old man herself. None of us can disagree that it has been a while since we've seen each other. Yuri thought it would be a good idea for us all to catch up. So she's planned a trip to the beach for everyone and I know it would mean a lot to her and to Azumi and I guess me as well if you came. You can bring your friend too, I'm dying to meet her"

The Ryouji clone through up a peace sign before laughing. Shukumei kind of blushed a bit before actually thinking through what it was he said. In her embarassment she rammed her fist directly into the side of his head, destroying it the clone completely.

"Stupid idiot, thats what you get for spying on me. Well I guess it couldn't hurt to go and see if she wants to come."[/b]

[Future Shizune]

Having finally reached the end of the time stream. The Shinigami from the future had arrived at her destination. She traveled for what seems like years, but it was only really a few hours or so. Landing the roof of a building, she glanced around, the city was lively...bustling. It reminded her a lot of the soul society in her time. This was her officially her first trip to the human world. It was a little overwhelming. There was really no time to take in the scenery.

"Where did that bastard get to. You can't run and hide for long. I'm going to find you and I'm going to make you pay for what you did to my family!"

She glanced down to the necklace and locket hanging from around her neck and she took it into her hands and held it firmly before sighing. She was wearing a traditional Shinigami uniform. with her Haori draped over top. Both shoulders of her Haori were covered with guards, and draped from them was her AUnt's robe and Father's robe respectively. She wore them for strength and courage. Her Zanpakuto Mikomi rested in her sash. On her lower back she carried two extra Zanpakuto which belonged to her father and Aunt.Each was facing a different way and would use which ever she wanted when she felt a need to do so. Since they were no longer inhabited by spirits, they were more or less normal swords.

"Lady Yuri warned me that my family lives here in this city. I don't remember my mother or father....it would be great to see them for the first time since I was little. Unfortunately I'm not hear for that. Once I've finished my mission I will see them with my own eyes."

She jumped off of the roof of the building and flash stepped as she began to persue the one she came to this time era to find and she would find him no matter what it took. The man responsible for killing her mother, father and Aunt. She was warned how ever to stay focused and to keep a level head although she was more or less angry; yet quite serious. It was a trait her mentor told her she had in common with her father.

She continued to search around the town as fast as she could before the escapee decided to do something much more drastic, she could not allow him to interfere with the Shinigami of this time period, or there could be serious rammifications. A problem in which there could be no solution.

[Yuri Nakayama]

As Yuri was going to step into the kitchen, she noticed what time it was from the clock that was placed in there. It would seem like making the food would take up a lot of time. Maybe it would be less time consuming if they were just to order out. "Well, I got to thinking. Making the food and desserts would take up a lot of our time. No offense of course. So why don't we order something out? Maybe like.. Uh.. Well, I'm open to suggestions. Either way, I'll pay for it. It's so exciting that everyone is coming over. Everyone? " For a moment, Yuri just stared off in the distance for a moment before shaking her head. "Hehe, Guess I forgot Ronin. Well, not really forgot. I just figured he'd be too busy. Guess it wouldn't hurt to try."

She tried giving his phone a call, only to leave a message. She sighed, shaking her head. However, she wasn't gonna let it get to her. Her plans won't be ruined. Then she made a quick call to Jiro since no one had made a decision on what to order yet. "On your way yet? They'll all jealous about the vacation thing huh? Well, let them know they can have their break as well. About a week should do. Just let them know their duties will resume as soon as I return. Nah, we're still in my apartment. I'll let you know when we get there. I kinda want to retrain from using anything that deals with spiritual pressure. Don't want any Hollows or anything of the like ruining this. We may stop by Urahara's for supplies and to make sure everyone else has their gigai. You do the same. See you there."

She hangs up the phone, turning to the others. It was obvious she was very happy. It was going to be so much fun. "Well, I tried calling Ronin and no word yet. Jiro has to take care of the squad for a bit and then he'll be on his way. Any word from Shukumei? Oh uh.. Maybe we could stop by Urahara's just in case we needed any supplies there. So, made up your mind on what you guys wanna order?"

[Ryouji Onigata]

After being tackled and slapped by his pupil and wife. Ryouji held the side of his face, wanting to ignore the throbbing sensation that had overtaken the right side of his face.

"I've already spoken with Shukumei. The angry amazon will also come. I tried talking her into bringing her female friend along for the ride as well. I personally hope she does because it will be fun to embarrass her the same way she use to embarrass me."

Ryouji rubbed his hands together with evil intentions. He couldn't wait to meet this 'friend' of hers. The very thought of exposing her for the the enormous amazon she is will make this day worth living.

Upon glancing over to his wife, she saw that she was staring at him angrily and his expression changed from one of excitement and ill-will to one of fear. Tangling with Azumi while she's in the current state she's in did not excite him in the least; actually he was pretty much terrified of her. This was the reason why he always did everything she asked to keep her happy.

"Pizza sounds like a good choice. I can only count how many times Azumi's sent me out for pizza and juice! Its like pretty much all she eats. I will split the bill with you. You have no idea how much she can eat..."

Ryouji leaned closer to Yuri and covered his mouth with his hands to whisper something Azumi isn't supposed to hear.

"It's scary how much she can eat now that she's pregnant. Imagine what Shukumei eats and then triple it. That still doesn't cover it."

Ryouji lowered his hand and turned to face his wife only to notice she was standing right near him the entire time. Ryouji put extended his hands forward, pleading with his wife not to do anything irrational but before he had the chance to apologize, she through one of her sandals at him. The sandal plowed into his face before knocking him over onto the floor. He shouldn't have said anything, now he's going to be sleeping on the couch. Could this day possibly get any worse.

[Azumi Onigata]

Azumi could not believe Ryouji would say that about her. It was heartbreaking to hear that her own husband thought she was a glutton. She couldn't help it, she had to eat for herself and for the baby. As she glared at him, she began to sniffle before bursting into tears.

"You big stupid jerk!!!! How could you say such awful things about your own wife?! I knew it...the second I started showing, you were no longer actracted to me. Thats it...isn't it. You think I'm a cow!!!"

Azumi covered her face with her hands as she began to sob. She knew that he didn't mean it like that, but it was so easy to manipulate him to do her bidding. Not to mention she loved all of the attention and affection she was getting from him. She uncovered her face and wiped away the tears and continued to 'sniffle'

"Don't forget meanieface, that it's your fault I'm like this to begin with! If only you'd...."

Azumi turned and glanced at Yuri before clearing her throat. Clearly this was not a conversation she needed to hear or be apart of. Azumi runs her fingers through her hair and smiles.

"Okay, I forgive you...though I can't help that I eat a lot. I am eating for two you know. Now bringing me my sandal and give me a kiss!"

She giggled as she watched Ryouji crawl over to her and slip her sandal back on to her feet before kissing her. She patted the sofa next to her. Wanting Ryouji to sit next to her. Once he did so, she jumped into his lap and leaned back onto him. She grabbed his hands and placed them on her stomach.

"She's kicking a lot today. Maybe she's excited. Pizza and Juice sounds delicious to me, then again everything that tastes good sounds good!"

[Yuri Nakayama]

It looked like pizza and juice would be ordered. But before that, Yuri was going to try calling Ronin one more time. She calls his phone, leaving him a message to call her back as soon as he could. After handing up, she picks up another phone, calling up a pizza place she knows. Just to be safe, she ordered a few different kind of pizzas. One with all meat, just cheese, veggies, anything she could think of so there was some variety. "Yeah, see you when you get here." She hangs up the phone, soon gong back to the kitchen to fix them something to drink, handing Azumi and Ryouji their glasses.

"I'm really looking forward to this. Oh uh, does everyone have like.. swimming attire and whatnot? If not, I know a shop that's on the beach where we could buy some stuff. Like chairs, swim wear, and sun block. Stuff like that, you know?" She giggles, taking a seat in one of the chairs. Hopefully Ronin would call back before they had to leave.

[Ronin]

Ronin had just finished up an assignment, checking his messages. He smiled when he heard Yuri's voice, listening to her message. His smile faded when he heard there was a chance of running into his former Captain. They had not left on good terms. He shrugged, calling Yuri back.

"Oh come on, I know you're there, pick up.... Oh no... did Ryouji say something stupid about his wife... AGAIN!?"

[Yuri Nakayama]

Picking up the phone, Yuri started to talk with Ronin a bit. She caught him up with what wa going on and to meet them at the beach since they were going to head there as soon as the pizza arrived. After hanging up, she started packing a few things like the drinks in the cooler, some snacks, and other essentials. There was a knock ont he door aq little bit afterward, Yuri going to it. The pizza had arrived and both she and Ryouji both paid for it. "Guess that means we can head on out. I told Ronin he can meet us there along with Nori if he wanted to come. There's a shop not too far that has the folding chair thingies if you guys didn't bring any along with some swimsuits and trunks too."

How exciting this was gonna be. But Since Shukumei didn't show up yet, she'd have to call to let her know that they were gonna head to the beach. Well, maybe picking a spot should be doen first so that way she's not searching the whole beach. After gathering all the stuff, she opened the door, helping everyone out, closing and locking the door to the apartment. After heading to the beach after a few miles (give or take of course), she finds a nice spot for them all, setting everything down. She looks around, spotting the store, pointing over to it. "Hm.. I'll head to the store to pick up some last minute stuff. Mind setting things up here? Oh, is there anything you guys need? More drinks, chairs, sunblock? Anything??"

[Azumi Onigata]

After settling into a chair Ryouji set up for her, Azumi leaned back into the chair and sighed happily. They had only just arrived and she was already so comfortable. It felt so nice to be out of the house for once. The breeze was nice and gentle.

"Mmm this is great. I wonder when Mei-mei will arrive. I hope she really does come soon, the pizza will get cold if she doesn't come soon. I wonder if Ronin will show as well. I don't see why he wouldn't, this is something that we all need."

She smiled as she placed her hands on her enlarged tummy and rubbed it gently while looking out at the ocean. It was such a pretty and wonderful day. She honestly believed that this day couldn't get any better.

"This day will be one we all cherish and remember for quite some time."

She grinned heavily while wiggling in her chair to keep herself comfortable while continuing to rub her tummy;hoping that Shukumei would show up soon.

[Ryouji Onigata]

The only thing Ryouji was looking forward to was embarrassing his sister in front of her new 'friend'. He often hoped for the day she would meet someone so he could pay her back for all of the pranks and embarrassment she caused him so many years ago. It was going to be an experience, one he never would forget. The only thing that continued to make him second guess was the thought of having to sleep on the sofa and angering his wife. Death wasn't nearly as terrifying as she was when angry.

All in all, aside from the mass embarrassment she was going to receive he was looking forward to being out of the house. He would finally be able to stretch and get some exorcise. It would also be a good time to communicate with Shinkuoremasu since he was sort of forced into retirement with Azumi needing him around the house constantly.

In any case he was...happy. It did him good to see Azumi enjoying herself, plus she had all the pizza she could eat, and more than enough juice to drink to keep her happy for the next year. Grabbing his Zanpakuto, Ryouji pulled Shinkuoremasu from its sheath and shoved the sharp end of the blade into the sand. The blade began to glow slightly before the spirit of his Zanpakuto manifested itself in front of him. It stood tall in its darkened armor, its cape fluttering in the gentle breeze.

Shinkuoremasu was nothing more than a mere shadow, it didn't have a face, only blood red eyes and a somewhat bad attitude. It glared at Ryouji before turning away from him,staring toward the ocean.

"Still holding a grudge against me, for not wielding you in so long? Not my fault, honestly, but I promise that you'll get some well deserved exorcise today. Shukumei will be here soon and we have to engage in our usual sibling greeting. Only this time will win!"

Shinkuoremasu chuckled with evil intentions, he too looked forward to meeting with Tatsumaki again after so many months, hell maybe even years since they've clashed blades. Ryouji clinched his fists, in anticipation. With Shinkuoremasu,looking forward to it with its trademark chuckle. There was no way in hell they would be defeated.

[Yuri Nakayama]

After buying a few more chairs, sunblock, drinks, and anything of the sort, Yuri stepped out of the store, walking back to the others, Only thing was that since she went a little overboard with the buying,s eh could barely see what was in front front of her. Uh let's see.. Chair for Ryouji.. Shukumei.. Her friend.. Ronin.. Nori.. I think that covers everyone.. Oh, and of course myself, can't forget myself. Just so excited is all. As she ran to get there faster, she started to stumble a little due to having a little to much momentum. "W.Watch out! N..no don't fall!" With a rather loud thud, Yuri fell to the ground, buried by the very stuff she was carrying.

"Hehe, at least drinks were in bottles." she crawled from under the mess, putting the bottled drinks near Azumi as she started setting up the chairs. "Well uh, I wasn't sure if Ronin, Nori, Shukumei and her friend were gonna bring chairs so I brought some for them. I brought lots of sunblock too. I heard sunburns are really bad for humans so we gotta be careful! The bottle also says waterproof so we can play in the water for some time too!" It felt like she was being stared at and she just laughed, stood up and brushed the sand off of her. When she looked over to Ryouji, she saw him with his Zanpaktou out. It made her tilt her head to the side out of curiosity. Was he talking to it or just letting it sunbathe or something?

Either way, he must be enjoying himself or so she hopes. She wanted everything to go smoothly. No missions, no Hollows, no nothing. It was a chance for them to just relax and kind forget about being Shinigami. She smiles, taking a seat next to Azumi. "Is it me or is he ready to fight or something?"

[Shukumei Onigata]

After having walked half way across town, Shukumei and her 'friend' Miyuki had finally arrived on the beach, dressed in matching Bikini's. She narrowed her eyes upon seeing her brother sitting there with the spirit of his Zanpakuto and smiled. It was always a ritual of there's, to fight if they hadn't seen each other in a long time, this would only be the third time such a travesty of family relations had befallen up on them. Both have scars to prove how seriously the twins took this.

It was for that same reason that she brought Tatsumaki along with her. There was no way in hell she wasn't going to fight with him, especially since he planned on embarrassing her. When Ryouji looked up and over in her direction. She flash stepped and appeared in front of him. She platted the bottom of her foot directly into the center of his face, sending him skidding back along the sand before he crashed, creating a rather large sand cloud.

"I'll get to you in a second dumb ass!!"

Shukumei shoved the sheathed Tatsumaki into the sand before turning to face Yuri and Azumi. Her serious looked changed to one of happiness. She was very happy to see them all again.

"Azumi...you're huge!!!!"

Had it really been that long since she's seen her bestest friend in the entire world? She felt kind of bad, her obsession with tracking down the Shiva and the Arrancar, she hasn't had much leisure time. She knelt down and rubbed Azumi's belly, giggling as she felt the baby move and kick. After amusing herself for a few moments, she gave Azumi a rather big hug and then moved on to Yuri, nearly squeezing the life out of her.

"I feel like so much time has passed since I've seen the both of you. I'm sorry for not staying in touch over these few months, but finding the Arrancar kept me busy. Everyone, this is Miyuki she's my friend, that I'm sure my idiot brother has already told you about. She's spiritually aware, and she pretty much knows everything about me and the soul society."

Shukumei looked around and noticed that her former Lieutenant was no where in sight. She sighed a little and felt a little sad. Hopefully Soi Fon didn't kill him. She shrugged before smirking.

"I'll be back as soon as I deal with Ryouji and then we can all catch..."

Out of nowhere Shukumei was sent flying as her brother ran into her with a shoulder block, after she tumbled backwards, she hopped up to her feet and her happy expression changed again to one of a more violent nature. Her hair was drenched in sand and she didn't like it one bit.

"YOU IDIOT, DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA HOW LONG IT TAKES ME TO GET SAND OUT OF MY HAIR!!!! I WILL KILL YOU!!!!"

Shukumei was going to enjoy this more than she should. Shukumei flash stepped over to her Zanpakuto and pulled it from the sand, she unsheathed it and tossed the sheath aside, before holding the hilt with both hands. Ryouji, did the same, and both moved further out onto the beach so no one would be caught in their rampage.

Once the two had distanced themselves away from the others,the two began to run toward each other with their Zanpakuto gripped tightly.

[Yuri Nakayama]

After being let go from Shukumei's hug, Yuri coughed a little to catch her breath. It was really good to see that she was able to find a friend that she could share everything with and not worry about keeping things a secret. She smiled, turning to Miyuki. "It's very nice to meet you. I'm Yuri Nakayama." Right as she was about to say something else, she hears Shukumei scream, laughing nervously. Then the two twins started to fight one another. With a smile, she just shook her head. "Don't worry about those two. I guess you can say it's a tradition of sorts. But hopefully it doesn't go too out of hand.."

She takes a seat in her chair, just watching the two go at it. Of course, she would like to stop the fight, but she knew what would happen if she tried. So it's just best to let them get it out of their system. "Taking all bets now!" Of course she was kidding. Yuri was just trying to make things seem well, what not they were or something.

[Azumi Onigata]

Sitting back in her chair watching this typical fight between her husband and sister-in-law/best friend, Azumi's left eye began to twitch uncontrollably. In the rare instance that they are separated, they have to fight with each other when they reunite. It was all pointless. Frankly it angered her since she would be the one to dress up the wounds each of them would get.

Such a beautiful day, ruined by usual twin behavior. She sees why they were dubbed the Terror Twins...they are truly terrible and will ruin everything near them as they fight.

Watching as the two continued to run toward each other. Azumi sat up and performed three sets of hand signs before extending her arms out in front of her.

"Hadou Eighty-one...Danku!!"

After the two ran smack into the barrier, Azumi sat up slightly while flailing her arms about in an angry manner, she wasn't going to allow the two of them to beat each other senseless, they would have to resolve their issue in another way.

"You two are going to have to settle your ritual another way. My feet hurt and I'm pregnant so angering me is not a option!! This day is far to beautiful for you battle hungry idiots to ruin it. HAVE A RACE and no putting on the mask Ryouji."

After huffing, Azumi leaned back into her chair and continued to rub her belly while glaring at the the twins as they stared back at her. After taking a deep breath and sighing, she put on a huge smile. Looking forward to watching both of them race it out rather than give each other more scars.

[Yuri Nakayama]

Yuri never realized how scary Azumi could be when she was mad. The race definitely seemed like a better idea than fighting. IT could of brought about unwanted attention or whatever. How were they going to make it work though? The beach was too long to do a race that way. Then it occurred to her. "I got it!" She goes up to the twins, drawing a line in the sand with the heel of her foot. "Alright, this will be the starting like. As for the finish line.." She runs a couple of feet (We'll say about 4 to 10) away from the starting line, drawing another line that will serve as the finish line. Now that they have a start and a finish, they need some kind of rules.

Yuri goes back up to the twins. What kind of rules indeed? Definitely no Hollow Mask. Maybe no Kido either. AFter all, Ryouji has told her how Shukumei would bind him if she didn't get her way. Now the main question would be if flash stepping should be allowed or not. Well, maybe don't include it. Let them do the race with just their own physical strength. If the track was longer, then maybe. Seeing how it's not, what's the point? "Alright guys, I've got the rules set up. No Hollow masks, no Kido, and no flashstepping either. The finish line is what, just a way bit ahead? Using either of those will get you disqualified. Anything else like pushing and all that is allowed."

Yuri then runs over to the Finish line, holding her right arm up. "Alright you two, I'll be standing here so I can watch and see who the winner is. When you see me lower my arm, I want you two to start. On your marks.. Get set.." Yuri quickly lowers her arm to signal the start of the race. "Go!!"

[Shukumei Onigata]

[Combined post for now]

After both Shukumei and Ryouji ran face first into the splitting void barrier Azumi set up, both twins sat up and glared at each other. It was no fair that Azumi felt the need to stop them. It didn't matter, the race seemed perfectly fine.

After collecting themselves the two grumble fought all the way to the starting line. At that point Yuri explained the rules after setting up the starting line. Neither one of them bothered to look at her for they wer to focused on themselves to really care.

While continuing to grumble fight. they both heard the "GO!!" from Yuri and both of them in unison performed a vicious flash step which kicked up sand everywhere from where they had started.

(Insert Mood Music: Ditty for Daddy:www.esnips.com/doc/f9dbc381-cf02-4be3-aeae-827ceccc987b/Bleach---Ditty-)For-Daddy

About half way from the finish line, both of them appeared out of their flash step, running for the dearest of dear life. Both of them had their heads down and as they continued to remain evenly matched in this foot race. Like twins do, they both looked at each other angrily and shouted to each other

"I'm not going to lose to you!!"

Shukumei dug down deep and started to pull ahead of Ryouji. Much to his chagrin he growled and dug deep and caught back up to her. Both looked up exactly at the same time and saw that they were near the finish line. War cries were emitted as both of them started running faster.

Shukumei heard a very high pitched scream, and looked up into the sky wondering where it was coming from. From out of nowhere, this tiny bodied kid falls out of the sky, screaming her head of. Shukumei's eyes widened and she began to scream loudly as the child collided with her and knocking her down. With the unseen interference, Ryouji jumped over Shukumei and crossed the finish line to win the race.

He turned around and pointed while laughing maniacally. He finally beat her in a race and he wasn't going to let her live it down ever, even if a kid did fall on her. After thinking about it, how the hell did a kid fall on her anyway.

"Kid or no kid Shukumei,you got smoked!! FACE!!!!"

Shukumei just laid there in the sand and just twitched ever so often. That by far was more painful for her than being stabbed, and slashed by anyone. It was...horrible.

[Megumi]

After landing on Shukumei, Megumi slowly sat up, tears in her eyes from the landing. Though Shukumei did soften the blow a little, it still kinda hurt. She stood up, rubbing her bottom, looking down to the fallen woman. She remembered seeing her around her mother when she used to be alive. Megumi thought she looked familiar. "Uhm, thanks for catchin' me old lady. What is this place, anyway? It's all..sandy and stuff." She wasn't sure if she liked it or not. Sand was getting in her socks and sandals and it was kinda hot. Then again, how could Shukumei of noticed her? Even the older man noticed her too. Were they Shinigami too? "Oh! I get it! You guys can see me because you're Shinigami too!" After all, it would of been annoying if people couldn't see her to give her the attention she deserved. But now, she was kinda worried. She was expecting someone to be here but they weren't around at all.

"Ha! That means I win! I said I would make it first!" She just giggles, moving her arms around her back. She looked from Ryouji, to Shukumei, and to all the others who were here.So this wasthe past? That means that she wasn't around in this timeline at how. Just thinking about it made her head hurt, signified by her holding it. The others may think of it like she migh t of hit her head or something. "So uh, where are we? And is the old lady gonna be alright? She hasn't gotten up yet or is she that old someone hasta help?" Was she being a little mean? Well, it's the truth after all. Most of the people here did seem familiar. She looked from each one, trying to place the name with a face.

"So you're the..what's the word..twins, right? Shukumei and Ryouji Oni..Oni.. pfff, whatever the last name is. And uh.." She looked over to Azumi, tilting her head to the side. She saw pictures of her in her Mother's photo albums so she had to be a friend too. She runs over to Azumi, smiling wide. She looked friendly enough. More friendly than the twins, that's for sure. How would she introduce herself? She did sneak by the Squad twelve officials so she didn't hear the do's and don'ts. Well, she knew she couldn't give her last name. That would cause too much trouble. Her first name should be enough. "Hi there. I'm Megumi. Nice to meet ya!"

[Azumi Onigata]

After watching Shukumei get destroyed by a child who fell from the sky,she sat up in her comfy chair and literally spit up her juice. She couldn't believe something like that actually happened. She watched the little one up until she was approached by the mouthy energetic child. When she introduced herself. Azumi's eyes grew big and googly. Megumi without a doubt was the cutest thing she's ever laid eyes on. Instinct took over and she pulled the child into a tight hug.

"Awww hello you little cutie you!!! I'm Azumi!!!."

She began to squeal as she continued to nuzzle her cheek against Megumi's. She was adorable, she only hoped her daughter would be just as cute as she was. The long pretty hair, the adorable eyes, even down to the clothes she was wearing, it was all to cute for her to bare!!!

"Megumi is such a pretty name, now tell me something okay? You mentioned Shinigami, are your parents Shinigami too? Mm never mind it doesn't matter. You are the cutest most precious thing I've ever seen in my entire life!!! It's to hot for you to be dressed like that, what say we go to that store over there and get your your own swimsuit? You can stay here with us until your parents come and get you"

Azumi was smiling from ear to ear. From the moment Megumi introduced herself, her entire day had gotten much better than she thought possible.

[Megumi]

Megumi just blinked as she was basically being hugged to death by this Azumi person. Well, she was just being friendly, so how could she deny that? She hugs back, letting go at the mention of her parents. They had no idea that she had even come here. Neither did Shizune for that matter. If she finds out, she would be sent back for sure. So she had to make up some kind of story about her parents. "Uhm.. Yeah, they're Shinigami. They're.. uh.. On a mission! Yeah, that's it! They came on a mission! I was suppose to stay with them but when we came through, we got split up!"

It sounded like a tall tale, but maybe Azumi would believe her. It's time to work her magic. She tears up, starting to cry a little. "I..It's my first time in the real world so I dunno where they went.." Upon hearing that she could stay with them, she stopped crying, hugging Azumi right away. "Thank you so much! But uh, what's a swimsuit? And why is everyone so dressed funny?"

[Shukumei Onigata]

[Another Combined Post]

After recovering from being fallen on. Shukumei turned to Ryouji, figuring that this was some sort of scheme he concocted to beat her. She narrowed her eyes balled up her fist as she slowly but surely power walked her way in front of him and stood there glaring at him.

(Insert Mood Music: Comical World www.esnips.com/doc/5dcc1ee6-3d74-4ec0-b752-c3a3eec3083d/Bleach---Comical-World)

"YOU BASTARD!!! you think having some kid fall on me is fair. How the hell did you do that anyway. Is that some sick twisted clone of yours that you created to distract me! I know this was all your doing!! It's all your fault."

Ryouji glared back while balling up his fist, bending it at the elbow while shaking it furiously How the hell could he create a clone of some kid he's never seen before. Now that he thinks about it, he can't create clones of anyone but himself!

"How the hell is it my fault?!? I've never seen that kid before in my life. Shinkuoremasu can only create clones of me. ME! Don't be made because you got owned in a race. Own up to it and face the facts drama queen, you lost!!!!"

It was at that point that the two of them began butting heads angrily. Both trying to push the other into submission but neither one of them was gaining ground on the other. After a few minutes of shoving each other they both had a thought at the exact same time and in unison said "Hey wait a minute!"

They both shot angry looks at the little girl before approaching her with their arms folded across each of their chests. Shukumei was quite angry at the fact that it was because of this kid that she lost the race. That didn't even matter, it was the fact that this child knew who they were.

"First you fall out of the sky and land on me, you call me an old lady and you address me by my first name. Listen hear kiddo, I'm a captain of the Thirteen court guard...and you will address me as Captain Onigata, is that clear!"

Megumi stuck her tongue out at Shukumei which prompted her to launch herself toward the little brat but Ryouji restrained her with a full nelson arm lock to hold her back to keep her from doing something drastic.

"Grrrrr, I will hit a child!!"

Shukumei kept pushing herself toward the little one but Ryouji kept holding her back. Shukumei's left eye kept twitching until she finally calmed down. Ryouji released her sighing. He glanced Megumi and narrowed his eyes. He couldn't help but think that the little girl looked familiar but he knows he's never seen here before.

"How do you know our names little one?"

[Megumi]

As the twins got close to her, she hid behind Azumi's chair. What was she going to say? She remembers seeing them at her mother's place now and then, but that was when she was a bit younger than what she was. Come to think of it, Shukumei used to be a captain. As for Ryouji, she'd have to make something up on the spot. "Well, a lot of stories were spread. I know Shukumei because she use..er.. She's a captain! She just said so! There are a lotta captains!" What was the point in saying Captain Onigata when there were basically three in one area? "I'm not gonna call you that! You and your brother have the same last name! It's too confusing!"

She wanted to say she learned about the stories from her mother and Shizune. Would that be alright? Shrugging, she might as well come out with it. "Well, Mama and Daddy used to be from your squads. They told me all kinda stories. They said that in the end, you were people to be trusted and counted on. Sorry you lost the race. Maybe you should work out more!" She sticks out her tongue again, giving an 'eep' sound like a child would when they know they're in trouble. As if on cue, Yuri steps up to everyone. For some odd reason, she was mad. Well, mad and confused. Maybe she was mad that the twins didn't listen to her rules. Confused as to who this Megumi girl really is. There was a sense of something familiar, but she couldn't place her hand on it.

Actually Ryouji, you didn't win either. You both were kinda disqualified during the race. Don't stare at me like that! I told you guys the rules and you broke them both!

From hearing Yuri speak, Megumi turned her attention to her. She looked so young and very pretty. How she wanted to just run over and hug her, but she knew she couldn't. She gave a frustrated sigh. She needed to get away before anymore questions were asked. To get Azumi's attention, she lightly tugged on her hand. "Uhm...Miss Azumi? Can we go to the store to get the uh.. swimsuit or whatever you called it? I wanna go play in the water!"

[Azumi Onigata]

Azumi glanced at Megumi and nodded before shuffling around in her seat before standing up. She took the little angel by the hand before shooting her husband and sister-in-law and evil glare which caused both of them to step back. She didn't like how they were ganging up on the poor little sweetheart and she wasn't going to stand for it.

"You two leave this poor little sweet angelic cutie alone! She's been separated from her parents and she doesn't need to be hassled by the two of you. Come on sweetheart, lets go and find you the cutest swimsuit they have and leave my husband and Shukumei to think of an apology to give to you for being such meanie faces."

Azumi waddled off across the sand while holding on to Megumi's hand and giggling. She hoped she could have moments like this with her child when she was born. She couldn't get past how cute Megumi was.

"We're going to have to find you a swimsuit that matches your hair. I think that would be one that suits you most. Or maybe a normal blue color. We'll have to see what they have, this is the first time I've ever bought a swimsuit for someone other than myself. Maybe we should let you pick one you like the most but we have to hurry, I'm getting hungry."

She did wonder who the mother of little Megumi could be, its been so long since she's left the soul society, there was no possible way that she could know who it is. Azumi also hoped that these parents would come for her soon. They must be worried about her.

[Megumi]

Megumi followed Azumi to the store to pick up her swimsuit. She looks around at the different ones, unable to pick out which she liked. Finally, she picks one that's the closest to her hair color, a wide smile on her face. She was then shown to the dressing room, putting on the swimsuit. It seemed kinda embarrassing, but with the weather being so hot, it did seem a lot cooler too. What kind of story can she tell them about her parents now? Well, they didn't know that she came to this timeline, so maybe she could use that.

Stepping out holding her clothes, she tugged lightly on Azumi's hand. "uhm.. My parents don't know that I followed them so they might of head back.. I got so excited that they were coming here I just had to follow! It's my first time here after all!" She never thought the real world be this exciting. Of course it was scary, but she had a feeling that Azumi and even the twins, even though they don't like her for some strange reason, would make sure nothing bad happened to her. She wasn't that bad to get along with, right? "You don't think those two hate me, right? I didn't mean to mess up their race.."

[Azumi Onigata]

Azumi glanced down at Megumi upon hearing the question of whether Ryouji and Shukumei hated her for messing up their race. Why on earth would she think such a thing. She was far to cute to be hated. Azumi covered her mouth and giggled like that was possibly the over-statement she's ever heard.

"Of course not. Its been a long time since they've seen each other. When they are separated, and then meet they are anxious to test and see how strong the other has gotten so they clash until I stop them. They are competitive, and have been that way for as long as I've known them, they were about your age when I first met them"

Azumi giggled before finding out that Megumi's parents might not know that she's here with them. Azumi gasped extra dramatically before kneeling down in front of the little one.

"Oh no that's...that's terrible!! Well you can stay with us for now. Eventually we're going to have to find your parents, but for now enjoy our day at the beach with us. Come on lets pay for your swimsuit and go back and meet up with the others."

After paying for the swimsuit, Azumi takes Megumi's clothes and holds them for her while taking her hand and leaving the store. She looked so cute in her swimsuit. She wondered if Yuri brought the camera to take pictures.

[Megumi]

Megumi walked out of the store holding Azumi's hand. Everything seem to be going just fine. It really did seem like she bought the story she told. Well, it was kinda a white lie, anyway. Her parents don't know that she's here and they were back in Soul Society. She wasn't gonna pass a chance to see the real world. goes back to where Azumi's chair is, sitting just a little bit away from it. She started playing with the sand, starting make a sand castle or was attempting to anyway. It was her first time trying. She was trying so hard to make it look all perfect.

Yuri was watching, still rather confused with the events that had happened but quickly shook it off. She did bring a camera with her to take pictures. She promised the Women Shinigami Association she would. After seeing little Megumi build her sand castle, Yuri took a picture of it and well, everyone else for that matter. If they didn't like it, oh well then. Megumi was too busy playing to even notice what was going on. She only had about this much fun bossing around Shizune's squad. For a moment, she stopped messing with the sand, looking to the water for a moment. She could only wonder where Shizune was. What would she say if she found that the she came along? Probably angry or something. So if Shizune ever showed up, she'd have to hide immediately.

[Ronin]

<combined post as I am too lazy to separate it into parts, had I done so, it would probably be much longer...>

Ronin and Nori seemed to appear out of nowhere, as Ronin had been chasing Nori since town. Nor appeared from thin air, sprinting away from nothing until Ronin appeared in a flash of fire and sprinted after him. Nori ran past a girl making a sand castle, Ronin jumping over the girl and the castle to pursue his best friend.

"I said I was sorry! It was an accident! Calm down!"

Ronin was quickly gaining ground on Nori, and what was even more amazing was the fact he was not leaving any footprints in the sand. It was due to his training with his new Captain, she had seen the fighter's spirit within him and taught him something to aid him, focus. Only someone who was an experienced warrior would notice this fact and what it meant.

"Those were for Yuri, and you made me drop them.... DOWN THE SEWER!!!!"

He appeared in front of Nori in a burst of fire, in a new fighting stance, one that left him guarded on all sides. This stance was another gift from his new Captain, for some reason she took him under her wing and made him an even better Shinigami than he could have ever hoped to be. He smirked as Nori took up his own custom stance, the two narrowing their eyes at each other. <Insert theme music - www.esnips.com/doc/2945f1e7-3838-4e06-9548-2440439a62cb/Kamen-Rider-Dragon-Knight-Extended-Opening-Theme> Both vanished, appearing near the water with their fists colliding. What happened next varied depending on who saw it. To a normal person, it looked like they each threw three punches before Ronin knocked Nori back to the others. To Ronin's friends, it was a massive exchange of punches, kicks, dodges and blocks, Nori ending up on his back with Ronin suddenly having his knee in Nori's chest. As Ronin raised his fist, they both suddenly burst out laughing. No matter how old the two got, somethings would never change between the pair.

"How was i supposed to know you would drop the flowers? And that they would somehow manage to go down into the drainage system? How could I have known?"

"Why he hell did you have to thrust kick me in the back for!? I didn't know you were there!"

The two bickered back and forth the way they usually did, despite how different they looked. Nori for the most part looked the same, but Ronin had changed a lot, and not just on the outside. There was a calmness about him that wasn't there before. Also, there were scars, LOTS of scars. He had been training non-stop with his new Captain, attaining these scars as a result, including one that went through his left eye. Thanks to the doctors, he was fine, but the scars remained. Each served as a reminder that his training will never be complete, there will always be more for him to learn. He helped his friend up, looking to the group there for the first time. It was also their firs good look at him, as he had not been standing still since he arrived. He saw that some of them were taking a good look at him, raising an eyebrow as they did. His eyes then shifted to Azumi, and then on the kid near them.

"Azumi, good to see you. I don't care What Ryouji says, you look good. Umm, who's the runt?"