Much Needed Vacation

[Megumi]

Megumi shrieked as the two men jumped over her. When she hunched down in reaction, she bumped against her sand castle, it messing up. She just stared at it for a moment. It was like, she worked so hard to make it just the way she wanted to and those two just made her mess it up. Of course she was angry and upset. Well, mostly upset anyway. "Aw no.. My..castle.. you two ruined it!" Of course she thought it was the twins at it again, so at first she didn't realize who she was talking to. She stood up and was about to start fusing at the twins until she saw Nori and Ronin. It had been a long time since she's seen her father since he was gone a lot on missions. It wasn't like she could follow him around like she could with her mother and Shizune. His work was a little more dangerous.

She steps over to them, inspecting them a little. "Hey.. it was you two and not Ryouji and Shukumei who made me bump into my art work, right?" When they turned to look at her, they had just finished talking to Azumi. Well, Ronin anyway. When he called her a runt, she huffed, pointing her finger at him, her arm shaking a little. "I'm not a runt! I'm just not old enough yet! Just wait! When I grow up, I'll be taller than you and and.. I'll be a captain some day! That would mean you'd have to listen to me!" She was fuming and it was easy to tell. It was kinda funny. First she wanted to hide from Shizune, but now she wanted to borrow her Haori jsut for the day so she could boss these people around save for Yuri and Azumi, of course. "I'll get you back for calling me that!"

[Future Shizune]

After scouring the city and with no luck, Shizune stopped for a moment to catch her breath. This was her first time to the human world and she never knew it was so vast. Not nearly as big as the rukongai districts, but still pretty vast in its own right. All of the traveling wore on her a bit, but she still had a job to do.

"Hm?"

Upon standing there resting, she felt several collective spiritual pressure signatures and narrowed her eyes. None of them felt like Zetsumei, but being that he was a shinigami hunter, there was no way he would pass up the opportunity to kill more shinigami. She knew she had to get there before he did.

She began to flash step once again, heading in the direction in which the collective spiritual pressures were gathered. Eventually they lead her to the beach where several shinigami appeared to be relaxing or what not. Landing on the sand in front of them, Shizune, had her back to the lot of them.She dusted off her haori before turning to face them.

It was at that exact moment where she saw her parents for the first time in quite sometime. She only has seen them in photographs that Lady Yuri showed to her, but seeing them in the flesh, frightened her a little bit. She gasped before taking a few steps back, trying to gather her thoughts, but there was nothing to gather,here they were. She stared at her mother as she sat in her beach chair staring back at her. She was even more beautiful than in the photographs. Then she stared at her father who was staring at her with what Lady Yuri referred to as his serious look. Even her aunt was with them...she looked to be just as young and as vibrant as ever.

The experience was a little overwhelming for her. She began to tear up slightly but she quickly wiped them away and noticed that Emi was here too. It didn't register right away since there was no possible way that the Lady Yuri of this time would have a child so young. Then it hit her, Emi's favorite play spot was the squad twelve laboratory. Did she follow Shizune here or was this some sort of accident. Knowing Emi, it wasn't an accident, she planned this and followed her back here to this time line. It didn't matter, she was happy to see that she was alright. Shizune walked over to her and gave her a ginormous hug.

"Emi, what on earth are you doing here? I can't believe you managed to get here on your own!"

She wondered if Lady Yuri, knew that she had used the device to come to this time line, but it didn't matter, she would have to go back where she would be safe, as long as she's here, she is a target for Zetsumei.

[rai]

Rai looked to where he sensed a collection of spiritual pressure. He knew that his Captain would be there so he had to beat her there. He flash stepped toward the pressure, making great time as he was near the area to begin with. He got there very quickly, seeing Megumi. Once he saw Emi, nothing else mattered. He knew that if his Captain saw her, she was going to rip him apart, possibly literally. He flash stepped to her, picking her up without looking around to see who else was there.

"Emi, Come on we need to get out of here quickly! If my Captain sees you here, or me for that matter, she'll go off like a fire cracker! Come on, why are you staring at me like that, let's get going, you know how she gets..... She's right behind me.... isn't she.... Crap, not again...."

[Megumi]

First she was hugged by Shizune and then picked up by Rai. It seemed like they found her but there was no way she was gonna go back. She liked it in the real world and wanted to stay for a little while longer. She squirmed free from Rai, landing on her feet as she backs away a little so that both Shizune and and him were in view. Now that Shizune and Rai said something like that, she was gonna have to think of something to fit in with the story she told Azumi. But what?

When she got an idea, she had one palm flat and made a fit. That fist hit her palm. She laughs a bit nervously, trying to act like she had jsut gotten in trouble or something. Then when it seem she realized why they were here, her attitude changed. "Ohh I get it. Mama and Daddy realized I got left behind huh? So they sent you guys but it was kinda like a game right? To get here before the other?" Of course, she wasn't gonna let either of them talk her out of leaving. "You guys are gonna talk me into going back, huh? Well, I don't wanna! I know they're worried, but I wanna stay here and play!"

She then formed her hollow mask in her hand, waving it up and down frantically like it was on fire or something. If she had to, she would tyr to fight or run away so she can stay. "They said I can stay with them for a while! Mama and Daddy know them, you know! So it's not like their gonna mind! Make me try to leave and I'll.. I'll.. Hit you with this mask!" It was an empty threat, but it sounded good or at least to her it did. Instead of wearing it normally, she placed it on top of her head like it was some kind of hat. She didn't know what it could do. Just that since she could remember,s he could always form it. So, she just treats it like anything else she doesn't know about: A playtoy. But now that those two were here, she'd have to figure out soem kind of story for them too other than they were jsut there to bring her home.

"So uh, these are my friends." She points to Shizune first. "That's Uh..uh.. Shi! Yeah, that's her name. Her name's too long to remember. I mean it's like.. seventeen letters long or something! Who would think of using that many letters just for a name??" Of course she was lying, but hopefully they would buy it. Then she points over to Rai. "That's R..Rai. He's just.. uh.. my babysitter! It's kinda fun to pull pranks on him. He's a nice guy though."

[Shukumei Onigata]

Shukumei watched the actions of the little brat before huffing. Never in her life has she heard so much back peddling. Whoever her parents were,should be ashamed. For having such a terrible little lying monster for a child. The constant 'uh's was a clear indication that her little mind couldn't keep up with the constant changing situations. So she was winging it all. It was a little to obvious. Then there was that mask she conjured with ease. To have such a mastery of it at such a young age was unheard of. What parents could have that kind of power. Ryouji dealt with his inner hollow twice before he got it under control and that still doesn't mean he won't have another episode if he becomes angry enough.

"You're lying! Nothing of what you've told us here makes any sense, none of it makes sense. You're a Vizard, I have no such parents within my squad, and nor does Yuri now that she's captain. We two are the only captains left with that sort of power."

Shukumei glanced up and stared at the female wearing a haori regularly with the haori of squad three and five draped over each of her shoulders and narrowed her eyes. Three haori, three Zanpakuto and a impressive command of spiritual pressure which she is masking just the same. None of this is making sense to her and she was beginning to get a major headache trying to process it all. She sighed and sat down near Miyuki and rested her head on her shoulders.

[Future Shizune]

Shizune lowered her head upon hearing her Aunt speak. She wasn't wrong in saying what she said. It was obvious that the Shukumei in this time was a lot more brash than the one that she knew in her time. There was a lot she wanted to say, but was forbidden to. Telling them the truth would only jeopardize things in the future of this time line.

She stared down at Emi, even though she was threatened to be hit with her mask, there wasn't any time to take her back, and even though her Lieutenant came without official orders, he too would have to remain here. How quickly things became so complicated in such a few short minutes.

"If you two mess up this mission I'm sending you both back! It makes things much harder to do when I have to worry about the two of you getting into harms way. Just remember why I came here and I'm not leaving until the job is finished."

She turned and glanced at Yuri before approaching her and bowing before her as a sign of respect. Of course there was no way that Yuri would know who she is, at least not yet anyway.

"Captain Nakayama, may I have a word with you in private please? Its urgent and you are someone I trust and respect a great deal."

Shizune remained in her bowing position while awaiting an answer from the younger self of her mentor. She hoped that she would agree to speak with her in private. She doubted that her mother and father would believe her. Her aunt was already catching on quite quickly. There was no question that she is one of the most intelligent Shinigami of this time.

[Yuri Nakayama]

Everything was becoming a little out of control. First it was the small child coming in and now it was another woman who appeared to be a captain. When the female addressed her, she just had a feeling that she could be trusted. After all, if she was here to do harm, she would of already done so, right? What caught her attention was the haori's that were over her shoulders. Furthermore, the young child was able to produce a hollow mask. So that would mean that her parent or even both of them were Vizards? Who though? She only knew of herself, Ryouji, and Shukumei. It was took confusing to think about at the moment.

"Uh, yeah sure. Hey guys, I'm gonna go talk to her. Oh, don't give me that 'it could be a trap or something' look. If she wanted to hurt us, she would of done it already. You guys just enjoy your day and let me take care of it. 'Sides, makes sense for me to. It is what I promised the Commander General after all. And no following either!" She walks away out of hearing range of everyone, facing Shizune. "I have a hunch that you know what's going on. So, out with it. What's the deal with you, Megumi, and your male friend."

[Future Shizune]

Shizune lowered her head slightly, how exactly could she explain everything without sounding like a complete nutcase? There was no other choice but to tell her everything. She trust Lady Yuri more than anything this younger version should be no different.

"What I am about to tell you from this moment on is strictly confidential. I ask that you are careful in what you tell the others for it could jeopardize my mission and my life."

She took a glance back and saw her family standing there in the distance. A heavy sigh followed while she shook her head. This was against her orders as she was not to have any sort of contact, but she couldn't exactly go to anyone else.

"My name is Shizune...Shizune Onigata, The Captain of Squad Nine. I am the only child of Ryouji and Azumi Onigata. I after hearing that I suppose you concluded that am the niece of Shukumei Onigata as well. With the help of Captain Kurotsuchi I was able to travel here to this time to locate, detain and return the a fugitive that has escaped to your time. His name is Zetsumei, and he is responsible for nearly eight hundred Shinigami deaths, including the deaths of my parents, and Aunt Shukumei. His power and mastery of Anti Shinigami combat forms are frightening. He's a terrible commodity and if he isn't stopped, I'm afraid that what happened in my time will also happen here. He is referred to as the Hand of Death, and his combat skills show it"

Shizune sat down on the sand and brought her knees up to her chest. She rested her chin on her knees while thinking of what it was like to see the deceased body of the only family she had left. There was never a more horrible sight for her and Zetsumei was responsible for every bit of it.

"I was only a small child when that monster took my parents from me. Aunt Shukumei's body was delivered to the sereitei nothing short of five or six days ago. The man who stands there with Megumi is my Lieutenant Raikurai. For whatever reason I do not know why he is here. He was not authorized to be here to my knowledge but I will need him here to aid in the battle;. It is their old Haori that I wear draped over my shoulder. When my parents were killed, it was you who took me in and trained me and taught me everything I know. I suppose you understand why I am telling you everything."

Shizune looked up to Yuri wondering if anything she's said thus far was being absorbed or if she was confused by it all. It was a lot to take in. She knew that she had already told Lady Yuri enough about her and briefed her on Zetsumei.

"I beg of you Lady Yuri, please don't tell my parents who I am, no matter how hard they attempt to badger it out of you. You're the only one I can trust with this information. I would like you to tell everyone of Zetsumei. They trust you more than they trust me."

[Yuri Nakayama]

Yuri just stared at Shizune for a bit after she said all that needed to be said. She tilts her head to the side in order to get a glance of Ryouji and the others. It was hard to believe that the woman before her was their child from the future. Either way, she has endured quite a hardship. At least someone was there for her to help raise her and to teach her the things she needed to know. A small smile formed as Yuri moved over to Shizune and placed a hand on her shoulder. "You have my word that I won't tell them your heritage. After all, that's your right in and of itself and not mine. I'll tell them what I need to. That the Commander General had warned me that Shinigami were being killed by an unknown force and you were sent to figure it out. From the looks of it, you've been in combat too, so it should fit that you learned his name before dying. As for your name.. I suppose I'll use Megumi's nickname for you."

As for explaining why Shizune was a captain, that was gonna be a doozy. The captain has already thought of something and maybe it would help Ryouji and Shukumei trust in her. "If you don't mind, I'll share a bit of your past to them. After all, it's not exactly a lie that I'm about to tell them, right? Well, I guess thei nfo on the Commander General is but hey, if this Zetsumei is a big a threat as you say he is, I'm sure calls will be coming in." She helps Shizune back onto her feet. She then heads back to the others to share the details. "I'm sure you guys are wondering why she's a captain. Let's get some details outta the way. To put it simply, I found her one day when she was still a child. She had explained to me that a horrible fate had fallen on her family and she was all alone. I didn't want to ask what since she was you know, still shocked at the loss. I accepted her into my squad and as she grew, she went from an unseated position to a seated one. Seeing how she had a lot of potiential, I recommended her to be a captain. The others agreed, tested her abilities, and thus became a captain."

Hopefully her lying is a lot better than Megumi's. She hated to, but she didn't want to put Shizune in more trouble or any more trouble for that matter. "Squad's three and five were taken, so she went with nine. I had told her stories about you guys and she just fell in love with them. So as a sign of respect and I suppose fandom, she had haori's made, with permission of course, of the two squads you two were in charged in. Well. still in charge regarding Shukumei. Anyway, it happened around the time Azumi was kidnapped. I'm not sure if you remembered, but I took a trip to Soul Society for a few days before we went to go get her. That's why you guys don't know or recognize her and her lieutenant."

It seemed like a mouth full to say, but she was almost done. Now came the part about Zetsumei. "The reason why we're on the vacation is that I was able to talk to the Commander General and we agreed that I was to take shifts during the night. The reason for this is because he has gotten wind of many shinigami, both in the real world and Soul Society, are being killed. It was Shi's first mission to find out who he is. So as she searched, she ran into him. Shi had told me that this being as Anti-shinigami abilities, so he must of prevented her of using Shikai/bankai and Kido. He was about to strike her down after he mentioned his name. That name was Zetsumei. However, Shi was able to stall him long enough for his abilities to diminish for the time being and got away. So, she is now on another mission to find him and kill him"

She looked to the others, hoping they bought everything they said. Hopefully with her saying that she more or less handpicked Shizune to be a captain, she had good judgment. Now all she can do is wait.

Ooc| Shizune, if that's not what you had in mind, then message me (Either via forum or msn) and let me know so I can edit it.

[Ryouji Onigata]

Ryouji rubbed the back of his head upon hearing the story Yuri told to him and the others. There was entirely to much information to process so it didn't make a bit of sense for him to try. Besides Yuri was his prodigy, there was no need to question anything she said. One thing did bother him and it was the name Zetsumei.

The fact remained that this was serious. If a there was a soul who was strong enough to kill Shinigami, then he had to agree to help this Shi woman bring him to justice. There was no denying that fact.

"This Zetsumei...is he really that strong?"

Ryouji's eyes shot over to Shi. She nodded in response to his question and he turned his back to the group before folding his arms across his chest.

"Then I will help you. This sounds serious, if he knows Anti-Shinigami combat abilities then it makes sense that he is able to kill Shinigami. I'm not giving another soul the chance to hurt or come after my wife and child. You're going to have to put this to a vote. You are either in, or you are out. Chances are if you decide not to fight, you'll be killed anyway. Are you going to fight to help this woman Shukumei? Ronin? Nori?"

[van]

Nori nodded, looking to the others.

"It appears that this person in in dire need of a beat down, I'm sure that between all of us gathered here, he will indeed get what he deserves!"

He shifted his eyes to Ronin, hoping he didn't do anything that would embarrass him or anyone else.

[Ronin]

Ronin closed his eyes, listening to everything that was said. He knew that there was a lot that Yuri wasn't telling them, but it was not important. He believed everything that he heard, and opened his eyes slowly. He shot Yuri a glance that said 'I know you are omitting details, but you probably have your reasons', shifting his eyes to Shizune. He then spoke the way he did when his new Captain gave him a task.

"Mission parameters: Locate target. Disable target. Bring target to Shi.

Secondary parameters: Keep Megumi safe. Ensure the safety of all others involved. Neutralize target as last resort only.

Mission..... Accepted....."

His eyes flashed a light red as a small fire burned in his eyes. He saw his former Captain smile lightly, probably something about him finally growing up. What none of the others gathered with him could possibly know was that he had been in charge of many missions, VERY dangerous ones. He had lost people, and even came close to death himself a few times. He was basically forced to grow up, to become a true soldier, willing and able to kill in an instant and at a moments notice.

[Ayame Kojima]

What a pile of Ludicrous bull. Did the future captain honestly assume that the Shinigami of this era would be anymore helpful than those in the time where they originated. The forthcoming of destruction Zetsumei would unleash in this time would be far more devastating than anything he's done in his own time. Perhaps these Shinigami would provide him with more of a challenge but the end result would be the same. He would crush all who dare cross his path, including the younger version of the captain who 'captured' him.

"Absolutely pathetic..they elected you to be the one to return me, but even with the help of those of where we come from 'Shi', you will still fail miserably. The best you've got are two people who've I already killed and a half-wit who talks like a science fiction manga robot. I suppose the bright side of this situation, with all the spiritual pressure going off over here...the lot of you made it easy for me to find you."

Appearing out of a flash step. The criminal Zetsumei, landed in front of the group of Shinigami while laughing. His uniform had been returned to him, in fact. He was quite angry that he was unmasked to begin with.

"Does it anger you, that my escape was planned from the beginning? Does it bother you 'Shi'? How rude of me...I haven't introduced myself. I am Zetsumei...better known to the shinigami of my time as The Hand of Death. Don't let what this girl told you fool you. We are not from this time period. We hail from a much more chaotic time. Shinigami are being slaughtered. With my arrival to this time period. Chaos and fear will ensue just the same."

Zetsumei chuckled before vanishing with a flash step, leaving the shinigami to plot and plan before he crushed their plans and hopes with a swift crushing blow.

[Shukumei Onigata]

Shukumei stood there with a look of disbelief on her face. That man...was the criminal this Shi person was supposed to capture, he came so quick and then vanished. There wasn't spiritual pressure or anything. It angered her, to be caught off guard like that was so beneath her. She turned to Yuri and Shi and glared at them.

"That entire story was fabricated, That man, this Zetsumei just debunked everything you've stated. How the hell am I supposed to believe that this girl came from the future or whatever. None of that makes sense. I want some answers. Just who in the hell are you! This little brat that you know is also from the future isn't she. I suggest you start telling us the truth."

Shukumei stood up slowly while gripping the sheathed Tatsumaki. If there were more lies to be spilled, then she would have no problem fighting until she got what she needed to know about this situation out of the one who knew all of the answers.

Although she didn't want to show a much more serious side in front of her 'friend' Miyuki, she couldn't help but to be seriously peeved that she was lied to and this Zetsumei person appeared out of nowhere. How could they possibly help someone against another individual that they know nothing about aside from the fact that he knows Anti-Shinigami combat techniques.

When she didn't receive an answer, she stepped forward, but was immediately cut off by her brother who extended her hand and blocked her from approaching the young woman dressed as a captain. Upon noticing the look on Ryouji's face,she lowered her head and took a few steps back.

"Very well"

Shukumei turned away from Shi and Yuri and sat down again near Miyuki. This situation was becoming more and more odd with each second, but with Ryouji stepping forward, it would prove to be interesting.

[Ryouji Onigata]

After blocking his sister from fighting with Shi, Ryouji decided he would be the one to get the answers from her. Its been a while since he's fought with anyone, and he needed the practice. Honestly he didn't understand why Yuri would lie to the them like that, nor did he care. Perhaps it wasn't her fault at all, maybe she was only telling them what Shi originally told her. However the fact remained that he was going to get the answers they needed, if he had to kill someone here today. He turned and glanced at his wife who had a look of disapproval on her face, he closed his eyes and sighed before turning back and staring at Shi.

"I'm sorry Azumi, but this must be done and done now. I will do what it takes to get the proper information. I agreed to help you Shi, and I will stand true to my word but that's only after you've told us the truth."

When Shi said nothing in response, Ryouji raised his hand and pointed further down the beach a little ways away from where the group had set up their beach spot. He lowered his hand, grabbed his Zanpakuto and made his way toward the very spot he pointed to.

She didn't have to tell them everything, only what they needed to know in order to defeat Zetsumei. There was no reason to him to make such a big deal out of this situation however, there was also no reason to lie to them. They offered to help, only to realize that the fabrication of what was told to them was only half-truths. Fighting with Shi would give him the full truth or at least convince her into telling them something other than what was told to them already.

[Yuri Nakayama]

Yuri let out a deep sigh as she watch the events unfold. It seems in order for everyone to trust Shizune, the truth would have to be told. Well, about her coming from the future anyway. She'll still keep the fact that she's related to Ryouji, Shukumei, and Azumi alone. Though Ryouji was already away from the others, she believed that he would get the information he needed from fighting her. "I'm sorry for doing that, but she came to me to share her story with. She wanted me to be careful of what I said to you guys. I hated to do it, but you know how I am. I was trying to please both sides. I know it's a lot of information to take in, but don't fall for what Zetsumei had said. It's always a task for the opponent to cause distrust among their opponents so please, don't let it happen. The fact remains that Zetsumei is our opponent. Does it really matter what time she came from?"

She could feel their stares and it was rather unsettling. Were they going to be upset with her for the rest of the day? Though she would play it off like it didn't matter, it still would bother her. Anyway, she had to at least try to be the voice of reason. "I know the story I made was half truth, but it still remains that she needs our help. Who are we to turn down help? If it was one of us and not her, we'd jump right to it and you know it!"

Maybe they just needed some time alone to let everything sink into their heads. Although a fight may not be good at this point and time, but there's no way she could stop either of them. All she could do right now is to put the vacation to an end and report to Soul Society. "Funny how things work out.. Well, you guys can stay if you want, but someone has to report back to the Commander General to tell him the news about Zetsumei. I'll go ahead and do that. Just.. be careful alright?" She went over to her belongings, packing them up. Hopefully the fight won't get too out of control. Once everything was settled, she looked over to where Ryouji was standing, smiling a little. "Hey Ryouji! Good luck! I'll see you guys back at my place when you're done! Be sure to bring Shi and Megumi and uh.,. Rai too!"

Yuri then starts carrying the items home. Thank goodness it wasn't so far away. For now, she needed to get away from the others to give them their space. Things will get better eventually, or so she hoped. If it didn't, Shi's future history may become their own future.

[Megumi]

After seeing Yuri leave, Megumi was mad and wasn't afraid to show it. How could they say such mean things to both Shizune and Yuri? If they didn't want to tell everything, then they shouldn't have to. Now Ryouji is gonna fight her? It seemed kinda funny. There was no way he could stand up to Shizune. She was really strong and smart too. No way would she let a guy like him beat her. From out of nowhere, Megumi pulled out some folding fans that had Shizune's name on it (Well, at least Shi on both of them), waving them around like crazy in attempt to cheer her on. Of course she knows the fight hasn't started, but it didn't matter to her. "You can beat him! I'm cheerin' for ya! But uh, I wanan borrow your Haori though. I dont' want it getting all dirty."

Well, that wasn't all of it either. She loves wearing the haori and wouldn't want anything bad to happen to it. Not only does it let her have fun, but it's like a way for her and Shizune to bond. However, when she heard Shukumei call her a rat, she glared over to her, waving the fans frantically again. "Hey! I'm not a brat! I was gonan say sorry for calling you old, but not anymore! I won't say it until you say it first!" She pointed one of the fans at her, still steaming. "Just wait! When I get older, I'll be really strong! Well, that has nothign to do with anything, but just you wait! I'll get you back one way or another!"

[rai]

When Rai heard that his Captain's 'father' wanted to fight her, he growled. How could he want to fight at a time like this? He decided it best to stop him before the fight began, taking a single step before a giant flame burst up from the ground. Without thinking, Rai activated his Shikai, glaring around at everyone there.

"Who did that? Tell me! Which one of you did that?"

His eyes suddenly fixed on Ronin, seeing as he was staring at him with an expression that said that it was him.

"Why you... Take this!!!"

He shot an arrow, one with no intent of hitting Ronin but enough to tell him it was not wise to mess with him.

[Ronin]

Ronin scoffed as he saw the arrow come at him. He looked at he kid as his flame barrier incinerated the arrow, seeing him become fumed. He rolled his eyes as the young Shinigami ran at him, seeing two small blades sprig out of the ends of his bow. As Rai swung at him a few times, he simply shifted his weight to avoid them, letting the boy get more and more frustrated. It was then that he saw Yuri gathering up the things, deciding to end this display of childishness. He caught the bow, using it to toss Rai into the air. In a move that was too fast to be seen by anyone other than his former Captain, Ryouji, or Yuri, he appeared above Rai and hammered him down to the ground before appearing on the ground again and catching him before he slammed into the sand. He then dropped him on his face, shaking his head.

"If I was this Zetsumei, you would have been dead. Recklessness will only get you killed eventually. I used to be a lot like you, but I grew up, I only hope you get the chance to do so. You two, try not to kill each other, Ryouji, make sure you make it so she can speak, I have questions that WILL be answered, you know how to find me..."

He suddenly appeared beside Yuri, taking everything she had in her arms. He nudged her lightly with his elbow, smirking lightly as he carried everything to her house.

[van]

Nori just sat quietly. He did not like being lied to, but e knew that he was still going to track down this person no matter what. He closed his eyes, replaying the instant in his mind. Before Zetsumi appeared, he had an uneasy feeling, something he got when he was around another fighter of greater or equal ability to him. Judging by Ronin's expression, he had felt it too. The other Shinigami did not seem to notice, perhaps it was simply because it was a human feeling and they did not have an equivalent. All that was certain was that this was going to be one hell of a fight.

[Future Shizune]

After smiling at the support she was receiving from Megumi, Shizune removed her Haori and placed it over her shoulders. She gently patted Megumi on the head before turning to stare at her father. Lady Yuri told her of how deadly a weapon was in his hand, as did the records within the central library. Even though she wished there was some other way to detour him from wanting to face her to get the answers they needed. There was no way she would be able to sway him.

"I don't want to fight with you here. I will tell you everything,but you must understand for the protection of the future, I cannot reveal everything."


She sighed before reaching back and gripping the hilt of one of her Zanpakuto and pulled it from her sheath slightly. Once leaving the others behind to meet with him in the area he designated, she pulled the blade free, holding it in the inverse position. Although she did not want to hurt her father, she may have no choice if it will keep the others from attempting to attack her as well.

Listening to Emi cheer her on in the background made her smile, though she knew deep down that this was nothing to smile about, she was ready and willing whenever he decided to bring for his attack. One attack she knew she had to be cautious of was his famed Shadow blade attack, the one that allows Ryouji to warp distance to slash his opponents from anywhere he deemed necessary.

[Ryouji Onigata]

[Combined post]

Ryouji narrowed his eyes slightly before nodding. He's seen the sappy sci-fi anime movies. He's well aware of the risk of revealing something if you hail from a different time. He didn't care about any of it. The only thing he wanted to get out of her was the truth about herself and Zetsumei, how he came to be, and mostly what happened to them in the future since Zetsumei said he killed them.

Sliding his right foot back he quickly gripped Shinkuoremasu's hilt and pulled it from its sheath. Upon pulling it free, he slashed the are vertically and released a getsuga type attack which hurled for Shizune.

She narrowed her eyes quickly and flash stepped, to avoid the attack. Shizune quickly appeared behind him preparing to strike him down, but Ryouji raised his sheath above his head to block the attack. From his shadow,a clone appeared behind Shizune preparing to use his shadow blade technique, but she quickly flash stepped away from the her father and his clone.

"It is true, you are able to produce clones of yourself from anything with a shadow?! In actuality you can be anywhere at any time. Truly an amazing technique."

Everything Lady Yuri told her was true, he was a lot better than she hoped he would be,and he did it so effortlessly that if she hadn't sensed it, she could have been struck down at that exact moment.

Without word or Warning, Ryouji sprung forward and closed the gap between himself and Shizune as quickly as he could before launching another attack. Shizune knowing that she couldn't avoid confrontation for to much longer, met her father by countering his attacks with one of her own.

Both Shinigami were violently slashing at each other with their Zanpakuto, each countering the other with blindingly quick strikes. Ryouji flash stepped backwards before creating a little distance between the two of them.

She was actually keeping up with his attack speed, it was hard to believe that such a young shinigami would be able to keep up with him. Unfortunately for her, he was able to attack faster still. Seems as if the time for testing the waters was over, and he would have to get much more serious.

Thrusting Shinkuoremasu back into its sheath, Ryouji slowly lifted the now sheathed Zanpakuto out and held it in front of him. With his hand resting underneath the cross guard of the Zanpakuto he turned his hand slightly, with the sheath pointing away from his body.

Shizune grunted before flash stepping toward Ryouji, She thrusts the blade forward quickly and with all of her might but Ryouji parried it as quickly. She jumped back and skidded along the ground until her momentum ceased to carry her. Once stopping, her eyes widened as she quickly turned around and noticed that Ryouji was standing behind her. She was staring at him the entire time, but then she remembered his ability to produce clones out of anything with a shadow.

Raising her Zanpakuto quickly she uttered "Blind them..Mikomi!" Her Zanpakuto began to glow very brightly before a white light blinded everything looking into the area. Once she sheathed the blade, she watched as Ryouji stumbled around with his hands covering his eyes. It was a quick diversion,but a necessary one if she wanted to win this battle. Now with him blinding she could quickly end this. Unsheathing her Zanpakuto again She attempted to lunge herself forward, but her feet wouldn't move. She glanced down and noticed that two hands were holing her to the ground in place of her own shadow...she couldn't move.

"What the hell?!?"

While she struggled to get free, the piercing sound of a sword leaving its sheath was heard, and when she looked up, blood ejected itself from the wound she was just given in her shoulder. Ryouji cut her shoulder while she was struggling with being caught.

Ryouji appeared behind her and stood there, staring down at his Zanpakuto. Having been in the punishment squad, building up immunities to certain types of attacks was a great deal of his training.

Shizune dropped down onto one knee while holding her shoulder while the hands of the clone that grabbed her, vanished. She looked up while grunting.

Shizune slowly pushed herself up to a standing position after resting a moment. She sighed knowing that she now had no choice. If she wanted to win, she would have to put on her mask.

"Just tell us everything and be done with it Shi, You have proven that you are a strong and determined individual, you managed to parry and counter an onslaught with my Zanpakuto at my exact speed. You are a worthy opponent, however I have no intentions of bringing harm to you again."

Ryouji lowered his head and placed Shinkuoremasu back into its sheath before turning and walking away from Shizune,leaving her standing there with her hand covered in blood as she tried to keep the wound pressurized so that she would not lose any more blood.

She lowered her head as the spiritual pressure she was releasing began to increase slowly,but steadily. Her eyes were covered by her hair. Ryouji stopped and turned around, glancing at her upon noticing that her spiritual pressure was climbing.

[Future Shizune]

[This will be another combined post, but with what I have planned, most of this battle Shizune's point of view.]

Lifting her head slightly, Shizune turned around and glanced at her father. She removed her hand from her wounded shoulder. Her disposition was much more serious as her spiritual pressure continued to climb. If he only knew that she was his daughter. Shizune wondered if Ryouji would be proud of her, the many hours, days and weeks spent training, hoping to live up to the reputation he has as a strong shinigami.

"I can't allow this to continue any further. At this rate with your abilities. You are much more capable of defeating me. You're reputation doesn't do you justice. Sadly, this is the end of our battle. Forgive me, I did not want things to go this way, but you've left me without a choice."

After standing up straight she raised her left hand and covered the left side of her face. Within seconds, her hollow mask began to form into her left hand. Once it was fully formed,she closed her eyes and placed it over her face.

With a huge surge of spiritual pressure, the hollowification process was complete, with her mask she would now have what it takes to defeat her father. Her eyes shot open, her eyes were completely black, with the yellow iris'. Turning her attention to her mother. The look on her face made her feel horrible. She grabbed her locket and held it tightly.

"Forgive me Mother..."

She once again directed her attention to her father before flash stepping. She appeared in front of him just as quickly and forced her Zanpakuto into his forcing the two into a clash. Ryouji narrowed his eyes up on attempting to push Shizune back, but with the added strength she gets from her putting on her mask, he wasn't getting very far.

With a distorted yell Shizune pushes her father backwards. Ryouji grunted before forcing his feet down onto the ground, causing him to skid backwards. He tilted his head to the side slightly, popping his neck. Once he came to a stop he lifted his head again only to find Shizune right there in front of him preparing to attack. He manages to raise his Zanpakuto up to block a great deal of the damage, but he still took a hit and began bleeding through his shirt.

It wasn't often that he squared off a Visored aside from Yuri, but this girl was not like Yuri at all. She knew exactly what she was doing and if he wasn't careful he could be injured or even killed.

Performing a flash step of his own, Ryouji gave himself a little distance. Once he appeared he quickly raised his Zanpakuto above his head.

"Ban..."

Before he could finish uttering Bankai...Shizune was standing right in his face. glaring at him. Was The darkness being snuffed out by this girl and her her light based Zanpakuto?

"Sorry Ryouji, I'm not going to give you the chance to use Bankai or to wear your mask."

Bringing her Zanpakuto up above her head, she brought it down with all of her might but it was blocked by Ryouji's Zanpakuto. While she stared at him and noticed that he wasn't afraid or even surprised...in fact he was grinning. Shizune grunted before realizing why

"Damn it!!"

Ryouji performed a flash step causing Shizune to stumble forward as a clone appeared directly front of her slashing at her chest, opening up yet another wound before vanishing. She stumbled back slightly before gripping her Zanpakuto tightly in both hands.

Ryouji reappeared once again and stared at her from across the 'battlefield' He never would have thought that she would give him such a workout. It wasn't over yet however.

Shizune extended her blade out in front of her before turning it sideways. The blade began to emit a bright white light . She began to move it slowly in a horizontal motion and one she finished Several light daggers remained in place of the motion in which she originally moved her Zanpakuto.

"Let's go... Mikomi!!"

Upon her command the blades hurled themselves toward Ryouji. Knowing that he would parry them without question, she already had planned a follow up attack. Ryouji jumped back, and quickly slashed his blade around, battling off the blades as they each came toward him.

Once he was he was finished. He looked up and saw Shizune pointing at him. He narrowed his eyes and gasped. He was so content on keeping from getting hit again, he didn't keep his focus on her.

"Bakudo sixty-one....Rikujōkōrō"

Six rods of light, slammed themselves into Ryouji midsection paralyzing him right where he stood. Shizune raised her blade slightly and began to flash step continuously, quickly bridging the gap between the two of them. After her final flash step, She jumped into the air and brought her sword as high up as she could while yelling.

[Shukumei Onigata]

[After this post we can move forward with the arc where Shizune explains everything and planning to confront Zetsumei...etc]

This battle was far beyond anything she's ever seen before in her life. How was it that this woman was able to best her brother who had been bested. It wasn't like Ryouji at all to lose a fight. Regardless of the situation, Shukumei found it shocking and hilarious all at once. Losing the foot race because some munchkin fell on her was nowhere near as embarrassing as this. Something else bothered her though, from the outside, she fought exactly as Ryouji did. It was nearly mimicking him but with her own spin. Was Shi, trained by Ryouji in this future. Whatever the case, she was now a believer. On top of it all, she was also a Visored. Just who are these girls and how and why are they Visored? Aside from Shinji's group, she, Yuri and Ryouji were all that were left.

Upon noticing Shizune preparing to deal what could be a killing blow, she knew that she could no longer sit by and watch, she had to intervene for her brother's sake. Jumping up from her rather cozy spot near Miyuki, Shukumei flash stepped, appearing in front of Ryouji who was still bound by the binding spell. As the blade neared them both she extended her pointer finger and used it to stop the blade dead in its tracks.

"That's quite enough, Shi. I'm sure you're enjoying this all, but I can't exactly allow you to seriously harm my brother. I'm sure you understand."

While she was completely lost to the concept of two more visored resurfacing...and the appearance of this Zetsumei. There was apparently a lot that needed explaining. Hopefully the truth would come of it this time, she would hate to see anyone else fight with Shi. Though she would prove to be an interesting opponent, perhaps once this business with Zetsumei is settled, the two of them could fight.

Shukumei lowered her arm after Shi planted her feet on the ground. She shifted her attention to the little brat and rubbed the back of her head. Both of them looked so familiar it was ridiculous, she didn't even know what to say next.

"So much for our beach day...I didn't bring Miyuki here to watch a battle. Maybe we got off on the wrong foot. Oh well, once this Zetsumei idiot is dead, we can have another. I believe its time we regrouped with the others."

Shukumei raised her pointer finger a second time and it began to glow a bright white color.She turned around gently poked one of the six pillars of light, breaking down the composition of the bakudo spell, causing it to disintegrate. She pulled Ryouji up to his feet and slapped him on his back as hard as she could. Passing it off as it was a pat on the back.

"I'll bandage you up once we get to Yuri's place. You really need to cut lose one of these days. If you keep at it, I'll always end up saving your butt. Hey munch...erm Megumi, will you help Azumi. If you do, I will buy you ice cream and be nice to you!"

Shukumei laughed before helping Miyuki pack things up.

[Megumi]

How could she say no to free ice cream? Just the thought of it made Megumi excited. Well, even without the bribe, she would of helped Azumi anyway. "Yes Ma'am!" The little one ran over to Azumi, helping her pick up things like the beach chair, the pizza boxes, and well, anything heavy that Azumi wasn't suppose to carry. Of course, she was struggling, but after watching Shizune and Ryouji fight, she was determined, if not stubborn, to carry everything herself. "I knew Shi was gonna win. She's the best!" Most of all, she was just happy that Shizune was alright.

There was a problem though. Where was Yuri's apartment? The whole town was a big place and to her, all the houses look the same. Maybe Azumi will now. Megumi lightly tugs on her hand to get her attention. "Uh.. Ms. Azumi.. Where are we going? I mean.. Shukumei.." Well, Shumumei was gonna be nice and give her ice cream if she helped out, so maybe the least she could do was show a little inkling of respect. "Uh.. I mean.. Captain Shukumei said we were gonna head to Yuri's place. Where's that at?"

[van]

Nori saw the kid wasn't going to let anyone help her carry anything, so he did the next best thing. Once she had everything in her hands, Nori picked her up, putting her on his shoulders.

"Your friend is alright, but I know someone better.... he just doesn't know it yet..."

He grinned, walking Megumi over to the ice cream stand, letting her pick out what she wanted. He then continued walking as Shukumei paid the man. There was no doubt that the questions Ronin was going to ask were going to be less than subtle, but he hoped his friend had learned restraint with his word as well as with his fighting.

[rai]

Rai followed the man that was carrying Megumi, grumbling to himself. He was thinking over in his head how he lost so easily. He was supposed to be one of the fastest in his time, so how is it that this guy way so much faster. He couldn't even see the attack it was so fast. There was something about his words though, something familiar. The way he spoke, it reminded him of that guy that was always around Yuri. He was always out tracing Zetsumei, and surprisingly, he always returned. Rai shook his head, still grumbling as he walked.

Next time... next time I will beat him... but that fire, it's not a Shinigami ability, and humans can't do anything like that.... what is he?

[Azumi Onigata]

That battle, everything about it just seemed so wrong to her and she could not give herself a reason why. She was glad no one was seriously injured but she was still worried. After everything was packed up she walked over to Shi and stared at her. Upon noticing that Azumi was staring, Shi glanced back and blushed before looking away shyly. Azumi giggled before patting Shi's shoulder

"Once we regrouped with Yuri, I will restitch your Haori and Uniform. We're going to need to find you some clothes to wear first. Ryouji honey will you run home and bring Shi and me something to wear? My maternal clothing is much to big for Shi...but she is a little taller so anything you pick for her will be cute!"

She smiled again before rubbing her tummy and following the others to the ice cream stand. She needed something to snack on. With of what happened she still hasn't eaten yet.