A Sliver of peace

[Azumi Onigata]

After returning to the shop...finally. Azumi burst through the front door, running at full speed to the kitchen. She had to make a huge breakfast not only for her sister and herself, but for everyone to enjoy. After throwing the refrigerator door open, she grabbed everything from, eggs to pork and from fruits to vegetables. She placed all of everything she could find on the counter top and pulled her apron free from the stove handle.

"SHI, MEGUUUUMI!! COME IN THE KITCHEN AND ASSIST ME!!!!"

After grabbing an appropriate knife she began to dice all of the vegetables. She grabbed a big bowl and cracked nearly a dozen eggs and used a whisk to stir them all up as fast as she could. Perhaps she was over cooking or over working herself, but someone had to do it. Not to mention she enjoyed it. She could have Megumi, be her cute assistant and see if some of her culinary genius was passed on to Shi through her awesomely good genes.

"Yuri you can help too you know...between the four of us, we'll have things done in no time!!"

[Yuri Nakayama]

To be honest, she didn't see why Azumi wanted her to help. Sure, it gets the job done quicker, but as she said it herself, she smelled rather..disgusting. Who would want that scent to be on theiir food while eating? Then again, Azumi can get really scary if she doesn't get what she wants so maybe she could clean at least her hands so she can at least help out. She watched Little Megumi run into the kitchen, ready to be told what to do. Yuri steps into the kitchen and over to the sink, cleaning her hands.

After drying her hands off, she turns to Azumi, tilting her head to the side. "So uh..what do you want me to do?"

[Megumi]

Megumi ran into the Kitchen, seeing Azumi work hard with cutting the vegetables and putting the eggs in the bowl. She just watched in awe. She wanted to be able to do something like that when she grows older. She remembered all the goodies that Azumi made her in the future. Well, not just sweets, but full course meals. They were so yummy that she decided that she woudn't eat anyone else's food but hers. Also her mother's too since she learned her cooking from Azumi. Seeing that Azumi was running out of room to do things, the little one climbed into a chair and started to 'clean' off the table by shoving all the useless things off the table. Yuri who had witnessed Megumi's cleaning method just giggled to herself, picking up behind her.

"With all the food we're gonna be cooking, we're gonna need more bowls! Plates too!" She was so worked up. It could be seen as she zoomed back and forth from one place to another, getting a large bowl here, a few plates there, stacking it all on the table for Azumi to use. Maybe she'll cook some of her yummy sweets! So that means I need to get uh.. whatever you put cakes in. Emi went over to the cabinets and just stared up at them. Sometimes she downright hates being so young and short. She wasn't going to let that stop her. She goes back over to the table, dragging a free chair back over to the cabinets, standing in it with no luck still. "This is no fair!" She hops down, trying to think of how to reach what seemed so far out of reach.

Who needs all that stuff anyway! I'll help set the table! Won't Miss Azumi be proud when she sees me do it all right and stuff! She puts the chair back into place, taking all the dishes she got, doing her best to set the table and impress Azumi. With the stack being over her head, she couldn't see. When taking a step forward, she trips over her own feet, staggering and trying her best to keep the plates from falling and crashing. The inevitable happened. The plates were up in the air and Megumi fell on her bottom. Looking up and seeing the plates coming down, she caught one which lead her to catch all of them, not a single one broke in any shape or manner.

Megumi lets out a sigh of relief, setting the plates on her lap. She was a little frustrated because she was trying so hard to help and she wasn't doing anything useful at all. She felt like she was getting in the way. Oh how she wanted to just break down and cry. Water was already forming in her eyes, but she was trying to hold them back. "I..I didn't mean to! Honest! I was just trying to help.." She lets out a sniffle, not sure how Azumi was going to react. Was she going to tell her to get out of the kitchen or was she going to get a lecture?

[Azumi Onigata]

After seeing that Megumi was upset by falling down. Azumi placed her bowl of eggs on the counter top and washed her hands. After which she walked over to Megumi and knelt down in front of her and smiled. Poor girl just wanted to be helpful.

"Oh sweetie don't you worry about it, thank you for trying to help, but I do have a better idea. Why don't you come and keep me company while I cook. Oohhh you are just so cute!!"

Azumi lifted the plates from Megumi's lap and placed them on the table and helped her up to her feet. Once she was standing Azumi leaned over and planted a kiss on her cheek to make her feel better.

Afterward she took Megumi's hand and walked with her into the kitchen before lifting her up and sitting her down on the counter near where she was continuing to whisk the eggs. Azumi smirked before glancing back to Shi whom was still standing there not sure of what to do. After thinking long and hard about how she was to break the news to her about knowing who she really was. Azumi giggled and decided that the best way to tell her would be to spring it on her unexpectedly.

"Hey Shizune, do you mind setting the table for little Megumi, she's going to stay here and be my cute little supporter. Besides you need something to do and once you're done with that, you can come back and cut the meat, with a KNIFE not your Zanpakuto. I don't want to have to pay for a new counter again"

Even now after all this time she still wasn't completely over having her counter destroyed by Ryouji. Who would have thought he would be capable of something like that, but then again he is who he is and she loves him for it. After speaking with Shi olr rather Shizune, Azumi continued to whisk the eggs.

[Future Shizune]

After watching her mother help Emi, she smiled a little bit. She was a lot kinder and much more caring than she originally thought she would be. Its hard to believe that the woman who gave her so much hell about the her clothes could be so understanding and kind. Then again Emi was by far the most adorable child she's ever seen in her life so perhaps that was the cause of all that kindness. Once her mother spoke to her and gave her the job of setting the table, she nodded and set out to do exactly what was asked of her.

"Setting the table... Lady Yuri had me doing this too in our time in my younger days."

She was truly helping her mother out. This was like a dream come true for her. Why on earth did she insinuate the fact that she shouldn't use a Zanpakuto to cut the meat...who on earth would be that stupid. Zanpakuto were weapons...not cutlery. In any case, Shi moved into the dinning area and began to set the table, spacing out the plates and silverware just as she was instructed to do. Once she finished with that she returned to the kitchen and washed her hands and began to slice the meat into small and even pieces.

While she was cutting the meat, she dropped the knife onto the cutting board and turned toward her mother and screamed loudly. She continued to stare at her with a shocked and surprised look on her face. She can't believe it took her this long to catch on. Shizune covered her mouth with her hands and continued to stare in disbelief.

"Wh...what did you call me!?!?!"

So this entire time, the sudden change in attitude and demeanor...She figured out who she was after all. She was going to be in so much trouble when she got back, they would probably strip her of her Haori! It was far to late for her to try and play it off now, she gave it away with the scream. There was no point in h9iding it anymore. She lowered her head and turned toward the pork she was cutting and continued to cut it.

"Does he know as well? I mean does, my father know who I am?"

She would be totally surprised if he didn't, he was smart after all, though its well noted that her Aunt Shukumei was in a league all her own when it came to intelligence. She wouldn't be surprised if she didn't get the notion right away. This was all so weird now, how was she supposed to act now that her mother figured out who she was.

[Ronin]

Ronin sat outside the kitchen, putting his feet up on the couch. He heard the kid scream something about not meaning to do something and he was suddenly glad he was not inside with the women. He sighed, shrugging as he continues to wait. He shook his head, scoffing to himself.

"It's probably like a war zone in there... Oh well, lucky for me I'm out here. Poor kid. Better her than me..."

[Yuri Nakayama]

Yuri just stared at Azumi in disbelief though she knew it would of been a matter of time until she realized who Shi really was. Who's to say Shukumei and Ryouji know or not? Regardless, Now she doesn't have to worry about working so hard to impress Azumi. Now the two can bond since they didn't have a chance in her time. Though now she thought about it, she wondered her Megumi's parents were again. She looked familiar and Yuri couldn't think why that was the case. Anyway, the cat was out of the bag and there was nothing that can be done about it. "Don't feel so bad about it, Shi. Now you don't have to be nervous anymore. Well, not that you were but uh, I think you get what I mean." She giggled to herself, starting to help Azumi cut a few things here and there, helping Shi as well, and making sure nothing gets overcooked and under cooked.

She then looks to Ronin who was just sitting there and not doing anything. She puts her right hand on her waist and just sighs. He was going to help cook whether he liked it or not. She goes over to him, soon standing in front of him. Though talking to him was going to be awkward, she wanted to show she wanted to mke up for whatever she thought he thinks she did or something along those lines. "Don't just sit there! Come help us out! Please?"

[Ronin]

Ronin looked up to her, blinking at what she said. He scratched the back of his head, shaking his head.

"You want me to help out? In there? With you ladies? Last time I tried to cook Azumi was turning all different kinds of colors. Are you sure you want that?"

He knew that she was trying to make up for her Hollow, but now it was time to actually see if she would talk to him about it.

"Is everything alright? You do not seem yourself. Is there anything you want to talk to me about."

[Yuri Nakayama]

Yuri blushed when he asked her if everything was alright. She wanted tot ell him everything, but how would he react? Maybe if she just summed it up, it would be alright. Well, not really since it was the full information. How would they know if someone is watching, waiting to hear the vital information? "Well uh, I'd like to go into more detail, but I should cut it short since I don't know if enemies are listening. In short, my Hollow's been acting up more than usual. I don't know why. Maybe just because it can, I suppose. I'm just a little stressed from trying to keep control. So I'm sorry if I said anything that could of hurt your feelings."

She had a feeling he wouldn't be satisfied with the answer, but in a way, it was the truth. She is struggling fro control and it's taking all she has to just stay in control. It was leaving her more exhausted than an actual battle. Even so, she had to keep pushing herself so that she can make sure that her friends and loved ones were safe from harm. "I should of said something, but I didn't want to burden you guys with my problems. It's silly and I guess childish, but I just saw it as a problem only I could solve. I mean.. I know you'll be there, but I'm scared that one of these days.. I won't be able to hear your voices call out to me."

She shook herhead to rid herself of the thought. She'll be fine as long as they're willing to try to keep her safe from harms way. "Anyway, I better go check on the food. Thank you for listening." She smiled, walking back into the kitchen, putting the cooked food on the plates, checking over everything. It was all going so well. It felt nice to talk about what was bugging her, even if it wasn't the full truth. It would would have to do for now. "Azumi, what would you like me to do now?"

[Ronin]

Ronin watched her leave, shaking his head. He knew that she told him the truth, but there was more to it than she was telling him. He accepted it for now, letting her go back to the kitchen. He knew he should press, but he knew now was not the time. He walked to the kitchen, watching them prepare the food. He noticed the kid staring at him, tilting his head to the side. there was something familiar about her, something his 'other half' seemed to recognize. He shrugged, shifting his gaze to Yuri. For some reason, he could not stop staring at her. He blinked, looking around the kitchen. It was nice to see them semi relaxed for a change. If only it would last.

[Azumi Onigata]

Upon hearing her named called, Azumi's head shot up and she turned to Yuri who was asking for something else to do. Azumi tilted her head back and saw Ronin standing in the kitchen along side her. She narrowed her eyes before finishing with the eggs and began to fry them.

"I forgot there was a man around, and here we ladies are working so hard to feed everyone. Yes Yuri, there is something you can do. You and your boy-toy can begin to wash the dishes we used."

Azumi moved closer to Yuri and covered her mouth with her hands to whisper something in her ear.

"That way you two can be alone for a little while"

She giggled and held up her peace sign before returning to her eggs. Once they were done she rolled them as tightly as she could before moving them on to plates. She can't recall the last time she cooked so much for so many people.

"Shizune, I refuse to believe you are my baby girl until you show me you can cook. Wait... you said Yuri was your mentor in the future right, so didn't she teach you anything besides how to swing around a Zanpakuto and that weird hollow thing the four of you have going on?"

[Future Shizune]

When hearing her mother ask if she could cook or not or rather if Lady Yuri taught her anything culinary like. She nodded her head a bit but it was rather complicated. How could she possibly tell her mother that she sucked a cooking and was more of a fighter like her father.

"Well I uh can dabble a little. Lady Yuri taught me all that she could but I uh...I'm not good at it like you! I am a fighter, Like daddy and Aunt Shukumei! Not all of us Onigata's are the complete package. Aunt Shukumei is a tall beautiful strong willed woman and a proud captain. Daddy's determination and willingness to protect all he cares for and even those he doesn't care for is well noted. You are well known for your supreme kido mastery and your beauty and your culinary prowess are unmatched; and how can I compare to that?"

She lowered her head and looks away from her mother. It was all of her sadness speaking. While she was happy she and her mother could finally bond, she was still upset that she never got to know them the way a child should know her family. Ever since she could remember, the only thing she wanted to do was to learn of her parents and meet them and now she has had that opportunity now she realizes how she could never live up to being anything like them. She wondered if her mother viewed her that way upon learning how badly her cooking is or how she isn't strong like her father and aunt. Or how she doesn't come close to measuring up to her mother's beauty.

[Azumi Onigata]

Azumi looked down for a moment before turning to her daughter and approaching her from behind. Azumi wrapped her arms around Shizune and held her tightly. Azumi never believed that anyone should have to live up to expectations and should be their own individual self rather than follow a crowd or do things a certain way.

"Your name is Shizune Onigata. Not Ryouji Onigata, not Shukumei Onigata, or Azumi Onigata. As your mother I want you to know that I don't want you to be anything like your father or Aunt. Being like me is cool because I'm your mother and I'm totally awesome. Even if you are nothing us, you are still you Shizune, and that's all I could ever want you to be. Its not your fault you can't cook...its Yuri's fault!"

As if she vanished, Azumi appeared directly in front of Yuri and gave her the coldest glare ever. How dare she not ensure that her baby wasn't awesome at cooking like all the females in her family were.

"You!! You turned my baby into a muscle head just like her father! I...I will never forgive you Yuri Nakayama. When my baby is born, you will teach her to be a strong fighter and a great chef do you understand me!!"

Azumi narrowed her eyes while waiting on a proper response from her first pupil.

[Yuri Nakayama]

From Azumi appearing in front of her, Yuri let out a shriek before stepping back. Settling down and realizing it was Azumi, she sighed, rubbing the back of her head. Why was she being blamed? Wouldn't it need to be her future self that she argues with? Then again, she's not here so she must be the next best thing already. Laughing nervously, tapping and her index fingers together. "D..don't be blaming me! It's the future me you should be yelling at! And don't scare me like that! I've had enough of things trying to...scare me to death!" She stuck out her tongue at Azumi, soon blushing at the thought that she would want her to train the soon-to-be present Shi.

"Though it means a lot for you to say that, Azumi, but you and Ryouji will be around. You two can teach her. Uh.. Not saying that I don't want to of course! I'm uh.. I'm just saying that you two are gonna be there indefinitely to help her along the way!" Though for some odd reason, Yuri felt like she just dug herself a really deep hole to where she couldn't get ouf. She let out another nervous chuckle. "Eh heh.. Sorry if that came out wrong. You don't have to worry. I'll be there when you guys need me."

[Ronin]

Ronin shrugged and started washing the dishes. He put them back in their proper spot, watching what the others were doing. He saw the kid watching, wondering why she was so fascinated with him. He shifted his eyes back to the dishes, drying the dishes. He then resumed washing the other dishes, wondering how long this 'peace' was going to last.

[Megumi]

Megumi just watched Ronin cleaning the dishes. When he looked over to her, she jsut looked away, looking at all the food that was being cooked. Then when she heard Azumi fussing at Yuri, she wanted to step in and say something. But what? "Shi's cooked a lot of yummy things! She had a hard time though since I'm really picky on what I eat though. When she got it right, I just couldn't say no to the yumminess!" She was trying to take up for both her mother and Shi, hoping it would be good enough to save them. She took a quick look around, seeing everyone. She did feel bad for Shi. She had lost bother her parents but she (Megumi) had both of hers still.She often wondered about something, no matter ho silly it seemed. She was happy when she first saw Shi, even if she can barely remember. It seemed like a long time ago.

Megumi just giggled, looking over to Azumi. "Is it done yet? I'm still hungry~" If her verbally trying to defend them wouldn't work, she'll just have to try being more cute than she already is. Seems Azumi just goes gaga for that. She let tears form in her eyes, but not yet crying exactly. They better be thankful for this, especially Yuri. "I'm so hungry, I can't stand it~"

[Azumi Onigata]

Upon hearing Megumi defend Shi's cooking, followed by how hungry she was, Azumi turned around and grabbed the little cutie and took her to the table to eat.

"Alright honey you don't have to cry, lets eat so you can be happy and cute like you always are, okay? Oh what about Shukumei and Hina...they can't possibly feed themselves"

It was a dilemma but she was going to have to feed them both, good thing there was plenty of food for both of them to eat. Especially Shukumei for well noted how she can always eat and never gain anything close to resembling body fat. Now she was wondering if there was enough food.

"Maybe I should make more food...what if Ryouji comes home too. No this is plenty right. Everyone has enough?"

She always worried if she's made enough food for everyone but it seemed like it was plenty. Well the only thing left for her to do was to bring Hina to the table.

"Everyone dig in and enjoy it!"

Azumi stood up and waddled into the back rooms to bring help Hina to the table to assist her in eating. Once the sister's returned, Azumi moved a plate in front of Hina on top of gathering her own. It was nice having mostly everyone here, though she wished Ryouji was here to eat with them, but she was well aware of him being able to take carfe of himself.

[Shukumei Onigata]

After waking up, Shukumei limped her way into the dining area seeing everyone eating food and narrowed her eyes. Had they forgotten about her, after all she did get destroyed by Zetsumei. Why were they all here. What about Zetsumei. It didn't matter, she just wanted to eat and heal up a bit more before being tossed back into her captain's lifestyle.

"Someone...fill me in on whats been going on. Where is Zetsumei and Ryouji...oh...food. Excellent! I need to get my strength back."

Shukumei lowered herself down in front of the table sitting near Megumi and glanced over to see Azumi feeding a fully grown woman. She wanted to ask why or even question what was going on but she figured it would be best if she didn't know, it just looked weird for a grown woman to be feeding another grown woman.

Her hair was all over the place but she didn't care, for once she deserved to look like she just rolled out of bed..which in this case she really did. She had no idea how long she's been out or how much time has passed. Though she needed to report in but it could wait until she had some of Azumi's yummy food in her stomach. Although originally she decided not to question why but she had to know.

"Azumi why are you feeding this woman...who is she?"

[Yuri Nakayama]

Yuri sat down at the table along with Megumi who was already eating. Yuri took a few bites, enjoying the warm meal. As she heard Shukumei's voice, her glance went over to her. It was a relief to see her up and about. Though now, she was going to have to be a bit more careful with how she acts and talks. She was sure she was going to ask what happened to her. After all, Azumi said it herself: She looked like hell. She had to be careful too. She still felt uneasy and still slightly sick, but it seems the after effects were starting to diminish. After stomaching as much as she could, not that she didn't like the food or nothing, she had to stand up and give Shukumei room to sit down. "The food was delicious, Azumi. I would like to eat more, but I'm starting to have that 'sick on my stomach' kinda feeling. Oh.. Hello Shukumei! It's good to see you up!"

She rubbed the back of her head as the woman asked about Hina. She might as well come out with it, though she's not sure how it happened. "I don't know the exact truth about it, but this is Hina, Azumi's sister. There was a bit of a misunderstanding earlier, but everything's fine!" Then there was the fact she had to explain where Ryouji was. Well, it's not like she knew where he was, just that he had something he needed to take care of. "As for Ryouji, he mentioned something about doing something he should of done some time ago. So my guess he's off somewhere being Ryouji you know?"

Now that she was done eating, now she can focus on taking a bath and getting her Shinigami garbs fixed. Now if she could get away without a hitch, things would be going good. She jsut couldn't help but to feel awful of the events that happened. If she had of been stronger, she wouldn't of been taken along by Shin even if it was Ronin who gave her up willingly. If that happened of happened, then.. She had to block the thought from her mind. It's not like he knew what had happen would of happened. "Well uh..I'll..be around..if you need me, alright?"

[Ronin]

As soon as Ronin had finished his food, he washed his plate. He then went onto the roof, as he was sure it would be best if he was away from everyone. He looked out over the surrounding area, taking in how peaceful it all looked.

"It won't last... It never does. Even in my own town there is no peace for me, there will never be peace for someone like me. Heh, even in death fate will probably have a sick sense of humor and make me fight once more. Oh well, complaining won't help, may as well play my part."

He continued to watch over the area, his gaze soon shifting to the stars. He found slight comfort in looking at them, but not enough to put the situation out of his mind.

"Since as far back as I could remember I was always forced into fights. Heh, I even became very good at it. No one ever asks if I want to fight, they just assume that since I am so good at it, I must like it. Heh, why the hell am I talking to the sky? It's not like it's going to open up and give me some kind of divine insight on the problem."

[Hina Kusanagi]

After receiving a not so proper introduction, Hina sat up and glared at Shukumei. There was somewhat of an instant dislike toward Shukumei, but she didn't know why. There was just this vibe that Hina could not ignore. As Azumi was about to feed her, Hina took the chopsticks away from her and began to eat on her on strength while continuing to glare at Shukumei. It was strange, Hina knew nothing about this woman but yet she...angered her for some reason. Did she feel threatened by Shukumei, or was there some deeper reason. Even though Yuri told this captain of who she was, the captain didn't introduce herself which she found to be extremely rude. Then again she didn't give a proper introduction either...so now was as good a time as any.

"My name is...Hina Kusanagi...the last head of the Kusanagi clan. One of the original seven noble families and who might you be. From the way...Yuri was it answered to you, I assume that you must be the Captain in charge of this band of soul society deviants. Captain's in my day were much more disciplined and well mannored. I don't get that vibe from you miss."

Azumi sighed and shook her head upon hearing her sister speak. She could not help it if she was to be addressed and spoke to in a certain way, she is...or was rather of nobility. She commanded respect and would see to it that she got it at any cost. Due to her frustration she began to eat a bit faster, perhaps she was attempting to intimidate Shukumei into acknowledging her. Though at the moment it doesn't seem to be working very well.

"Fine choice in friends dear sister. I cannot believe the life you've chosen to live for yourself. You were supposed to lead our house when I left for my mission yet you've thrown it all away...and for this? I do not understand! You sit here and act as if you've done no wrong, clearly your arranged marriage fell through. You sit here now pregnant, cooking for people who should be serving YOU. Such a life of mediocrity. You should be ashamed of yourself!"

Hina began to shovel more food into her mouth while attempting to avoid staring at her sister or Shukumei.

[Yuri Nakayama]

After hearing that both she and Azumi were nobles, Yuri just rubbed the back of her head before turning back to face the others. Was Azumi worried that if they knew, they'd treat her differently? Well, life for the nobles is completely different than the lives of well...commoners. As for the serving part, she thought that in a way she kind of was serving Azumi. Hell, if she didn't get her way she'd pitch a fit. The least she could do was try to show Hina some respect. If Azumi was scary when she was angry, she'd hate to see Hina angry as well. So for now, she'd have to come up with some story and hoped it passed. Well. lying is unbecoming of captain, but whatever it takes for a mission, right? "Don't be mad at Az... I mean, Miss Azumi, Miss Hina. In a way, we were kinda helping her out. The food that she made was made with help. Taking care of you was done by more than one person."

She had to be delicate with what words she said. She didn't want to come across as being rude or nothing. As she saw Hina glare at Shukumei, Yuri laughed nervously, deciding to introduce Shukumei. "You're right, Miss Hina, to say Shukumei is a captain. She's the Captain of Squad Five and is indeed the leader of the group that represents Soul Society. We may not look like much, but please don't judge us. We do the best we can given the circumstances. You may be furious that you were released along with the Original Six but.." Even with them on the loose, they didn't have to be sorry. They knew the rest of Soul Society will do their very best to make sure that they're killed for the sake of everyone. "I give you my word as a Captain that when the time comes, we will put an end to the Original Six. I know the battle will be long and more allies will die, but we will do it!"

How was she going to react to that? Maybe her words would anger Hina more, but she just couldn't let her keep attacking her sister like she was. No one knows how fate is going to be played out. As for Shi coming back to prevent a future that might of happened, in a way, she was kind of glad. With knowing what was going to happen, they can prevent the dark future Shi had come from and provide a better one for the next generation and for themselves. "So please, Miss Hina, don't be mad. If you want someone to yell at, then by all means, let it be me. Azumi's stronger than what you're making her out to be."

[Azumi Onigata]

Azumi sighed upon hearing Yuri defend the group of Shinigami, there ws really no point in it. Azumi never once saw herself as a noble which was why she never married who she was supposed to marry. Marriage should stem from love, not an agreement spawned between two groups of people. Their house fell long ago, Azumi enjoys her life now, sure it has its ups and downs but she wouldn't give it up for anything.

"You don't have to address me with such respect Yuri. I never considered myself to be of nobility regardless of my upbringing. In fact I was hoping that no one would have ever known. When I was exiled for my display of forbidden kido and when I was my clan fell. I am still the same Azumi you've always known hehehe"

Azumi giggled while rubbing the back of her head. She was doing her best to not concern herself with Hina's rants but even she could only take so much.

"Hina I know you're angry with me for what I did, but I have my reasons. Don't take it out on them! They are not servants, they are people, they have feelings just like you and me! They are family to me Yuri gave you her word that the Original Six will be destroyed and Mei-mei will too. I want you to get to know my friends and I want you to meet Ryouji when he finally comes back! Just don't fall for his tough act. He's a total softie! Sure at times we fight amongst ourselves but that's what friends do. The past is the past Hina, you have a chance to live life the way you chose! Try it...its totally fun"

Azumi grinned before sighing she was still hungry...she couldn't wait for Shizune to be born...if she continued to eat like a pregnant woman she'd become a totally squishy belly. Upon seeing Shukumei and Hina empty there plates, she grabbed them and refilled them before bringing them back.

"Ooh HINA!!! We have to teach Shizune how to cook while she's here! Although she didn't inherit my culinary prowess. Not to mention since she is a female. She has to learn the family secret! Oh wait...I never introduced you either of you to each other. Hina I know this is going to sound weird and everything but um...This pretty pretty girl is my baby. She's from the future or something. In her time we're all like dead except for Yuri so Yuri took care of her and raised her and trained her and stuff! So like...she's my baby girl all grown up. Isn't she gorgeous?! Since she is also a member of our family, she has to be taught the family secret!"

Azumi threw her arms around her daughter and kissed her cheek while giggling. It was then Azumi gasped before turning to Yuri...she almost forgot! Azumi stood up and took a deep breath and smiled.

"Oh Yuri, haven't forgotten about you. I also think this is a good time for the three of you to get talk and try and get along. While Yuri and I umm..leave for a little while. Yeah! Play Nice Mei-Mei and Hina!"

Walking up to her, Azumi grabbed her by the back of her Haori and dragged her into one of the backrooms to take care of the little issue she was having earlier.

[Yuri Nakayama]

Yuri tilted her head to the side. She was confused by what Azumi meant by not forgetting about her. When Azumi coems up behind her, she turns her head to look/ It wasn't before long her Haori was grabbed and pulled with enough force to make her fall flat on her butt. Laughing nervously, she just waved at the others as she was being dragged along. "Oh don't worry about me~ I'll be fine.. with whatever happens~" Of course she was teasing. She couldn't think of anything to say in a situation as this. It's not every day she gets dragged. Still, it made her laugh since it made her remember the times Ryouji was incapacitated and Shukumei dragged him along as well.

"Well, this brings back memories. Er.. Uh.. What I meant was.. This reminds me of the times Shukumei dragged Ryouji after something silly had happened that caused him to be passed out. But uh, why drag me? You could of just told me to follow you back here. Are you gonna tell me something that you don't want the others to hear??" To be honest, she had forgotten what Azumi said before they even got to the shop. What was it? When it finally donned on her, she tilted her head back to look to the person carrying her along. "Waaait, I get that you want me to take a bath. So uh.." What was she going to do, bathe her herself or something? Just the thought was kind of embarrassing, even if they were both women. "At least let me bathe in privacy?"

It's not that she didn't mind it, it just seemed kind of awkward was all. She was going to let her take her bath by herself..right? "Sooo, Uh... The bath thing.. How's it gonna work? What I mean is uh.." By now, her face was red from blushing. She knew what she wanted to say but was having difficulty saying it. "Are..you going to uh..supervise me.. or something? I mean.. I know we're both women and all.. but uh.. N..Nevermind! It's just..R..Rambles.. don't mind me at all~"

[Hina Kusanagi]

After hearing Azumi's long winded speech about everything, Hina sighed and shook her head slightly. Azumi was always like that, so caring. She never understood why she was so bubbly and giggling and denies what she really is. Maybe it wasn't for her to understand but her sister was right. She did have a have a second chance now...perhaps now she can truly experience life although she was nearly three times older than everyone here.

Now what was she to think of her 'niece' and sister in law. Shukumei was quiet and still eating...meanwhile this Shizune was avoiding looking at anyone. Was she really to believe that this young woman was truly her niece from some future. Now that she thinks about it, she does sort of resemble a younger Azumi.

Hina narrowed her eyes while she continued to stare at her.

"So you're my niece from the future are you? None of it makes any sense to me, but Azumi's giggle when she mentioned it; wasn't that of a nervous one..so she isn't lying about who you are and you do resemble her quite a bit. Perhaps you are a Kusanagi after all. Have you some knowledge of Kido? If so, I wish to see it with my own eyes. First however I do wish for you to answer a question, When I attacked Azumi...earlier. The mask you wore...I wish to see it again as well. It resembled that of a Hollow, and your spiritual pressure changed as well it was almost...Arrancar like. Where did you learn of such power?"

Things in this day and age...are strange. Shinigami with hollow powers? Where did she develop such a thing and why isn't everyone freaking out about it. This Shizune...was an interesting character, as was all of the others. Who else had such an ability...how did she learn it...where did it come from! She had to know everything.

[Future Shizune]

Shizune continued to avoid staring at her auntie Hina...for some reason, she made her very nervous and somewhat afraid. The kido she blocked from hitting her mother...while she's doing her best to hide it really hurt her even with her mask on, she could still feel it. Yet why did she want to see her wear the mask again. Were their no shinigami like her when she resided in the soul society? She let out a nervous giggle before doing the responsible thing and responding to her.

"I uh...do have some knowledge of kido and I learned much more from my mentor back home. If you want me to demonstrate, I will be happy to show you if it means gaining more knowledge to live up to my families honor, then I will do whatever you ask. As..for my mask; I inherited the power from my father...its uh difficult to explain. I will show you that as well if you so desire it."

There was one mask she's yet to see or even hear of and that was Aunt Shukumei's...Although she too was a Visored, why does she never wear her mask.

"Umm Auntie Shukumei? I know its weird hearing me call you that but that's what I use to call you when I was younger. Umm...there was something I've always wondered and wanted to ask you...but I never had the opportunity. Why don't you wear your mask?"

For as far back as she could remember, even when she accompanied her Auntie on missions, she has never seen her mask although she's known to possess the ability.

[Shukumei Onigata]

Shukumei raised her head from her plate of food and looked to Shizune. Honestly she was in her own little world like most days when she was eating Azumi's cooking but after having overheard the truth of Shizune's origins, it was hard to imagine that the she was really the little one Azumi was carrying. It was difficult to explain about her hollow powers.

"My powers when hollowfied are underdeveloped. I...used the Hyogyoku to free myself from my inner hollow thus my capabilities are limited while wearing it. So I focused and trained as much and as hard as I could so that I wouldn't need to use it ever. There are times where I know I would benefit from it. If I wear it...its like I accept what my former mentor did to me. I do not accept that power nor do I call it my own."

She quickly resumed eating her food...it felt like she's been eating for hours but she still hasn't had her fill and still wanted more. She stood up from the table and went and made herself another plate before coming back to the table and sitting down to resume her gluttonous actions.

[Megumi]

From hearing the way Hina talks, it kind of bothered her. It just had this creepy sound to it that she didn't like. After eating all of the food she could stand to, she moved closer to Shi, and soon hid behind her. Normally, Megumi wouldn't visably show that she's afraid, but with this person, it just seemed like the right thing to do. If that was the case, she'd have to be scary back. She wasn't gonna let some stranger scare her. She then pointed a finger at Hina before speaking. "Shi knows a lot of Kido! I should know 'cause I've seen her use them! Shi takes after her Mama, of course! So that means not only is she good at cooking, she's good at everything else too! So don't be mean to her!"

She wasn't sure if Hina was being mean or not, but she was trying to make it understood that she wasn't going to allow anyone to pick on Shi. After all, that's something that only she can do. As for the Hollow mask, Emi didn't know how to explain it either. Her mother tried explaining it to her and it just made her more confused. She would at least try. "Uh..Well.. The Mask thing.. Like Captain Shukumei said, a person hasta have a inner Hollow. How you get one I dunno. I think something big's gotta happen. Like.. Like.. I can't remember what she said.. I think each person got theirs in a strange way. Anyway.. I have a mask too! So be nice!"

It wasn't like she would hurt anyone. She just wanted it to be made clea she wasn't gonna be scared or at lest for the time being anyway. Megumi then turned to Shukumei, tilting her head to the side. Something she said confused her. Hyogyoku? What was that? "That thing you mentioned.. Hyo..whatever right? What is it? Is it one of those fancy soul candies like Chappy? What's it do? Is it special? Who has it?" That's how it usually goes. Something catches her interest and she has to ask every possible question that she can think of in order to satisfy her curiousity.

[Yuri Nakayama]

it seemed like an hour or so since she was dragged off by Azumi to get her bath. Not that she was complaining or nothing. She did need one after all. At least now her wounds were cleaned and bandaged so all that she had to do was take it easy and make sure that they don't reopen. While she was taking her warm bath, Azumi was kind enough to fix her Haori and uniform. That was something else she would have to learn from her if she was willing to teach her. After putting on her clothes and haori, she turns to Azumi. "Thank you so much, Azumi. Not to uh, seem like I'm asking a lot or nothing but..Could you also teach me how to..What do the humans call it..sew? Not that I don't mind you fixing my outfit or nothing, but I'm sure there's going to be time where I won't be able to see you and I'd like to learn how." She chuckled, moving her arms behidn her back. "You don't have to say anything now. Just give it some thought, alright?"

She looked toward the direction of the kitchen and was starting to wonder how everyone was getting along. She would have to go and find out. Also, it seemed like Azumi didn't get a chance to eat her own food. The least she could do was to see if she wanted any. "I was thinking about going to check on the others and get some more food. Would you like some? It seems like you've been going nonstop ever since you got here. You need a break too, you know. So, go sit down and I'll get you some food. I'm pretty sure Megumi misses you." She knew where Shi came from, but had no idea about Megumi other than the fact that she came from the future. If she remembered right, the little one made mention that her father and mother used to be in Ryouji and Shukumei's squads. Who could it of been? Not only that, one of her parents, if not both, had to be a Visored. Or was she a normal Shinigami who was forced to go through Hollowification? So many scenarios was starting to get to her.

"I wonder who are her parents. She seems so familiar, doesn't she? Like you've seen her before but just can't remember where or when. Maybe we'll find out one day, right? Anyway, we better get going back. I have no idea if they're getting along or if the whole kitchen is in shambles. Then again, if that was true, I'm sure we would of sensed something. Oh, one more thing. I know this is gonna seem like a silly question, but why do you like Megumi so much?"

[Azumi Onigata]

Azumi smiled, Yuri was reminding her a lot of Megumi with how helpful she wanted to be for her, but doing the cooking and the sewing was as helpful as she could be in her condition, though there would be times where she can't do anything to help with Shizune due any day now. Taking care her baby is all she can do, though she'll always be here them to support them.

"Yuri I will be more than happy to teach to sew, its not hard at all. Though it is kind of cliche that a pregnant woman sews hehehe. I suppose it doesn't matter though. I can't assist on the battlefield anymore but I refuse to be useless. You all do so much to protect the people of the city. Its the least I can do ugh and no more food I don't think I could eat anymore. I uh...feel kind of weird."

Upon hearing Yuri ask what does Azumi like Megumi so much. She turned to face her. Her eyes were all googly like one would be when staring at their soul mate. Megumi was totally the most precious awesome little angel she's ever laid eyes on. She was sweet and so determined to be helpful how can anyone not fall in love with that precious sweetheart!

"How can you not like totally love her. She's absolutely adorable! She's so sweet and innocent and I can feel it she's going to be a total heart breaker when she grows up. Don't you like her?"

Azumi walked back into the the dining room where her sister, daughter and mei-mei and Megumi were. Megumi was standing behind Shizune and Mei-mei and Hina were still eating.

"Glad to see everyone is getting along better now. Megumi honey, why are you standing behind Shizune, is something wrong?"