Arrival and Departure

[Shukumei Onigata]

After being practically attacked by her Zanpakutou spirit's head. She sighed, it wasn't often that she was able to see Tatsumaki being so..quiet it was almost to good to be true but then there was the snoring. How could someone whom claimed to be the most beautiful Zanpakutou snore and the only way she would quiet down is if she sat there and stroked her hair like she was some sort of pet. Reluctant at first, Shukumei raised her hand above Tatsumaki's head and hair before running her fingers through her hair as slowly and as gently as she could. For her efforts she received that weird coo-ing purr thing she always seems to do when she's happy and her snoring ceased. Maybe now she could finally watch the fight between Yuri and Ryouji with little interruption.

Even though she knows why Tatsumaki came out without being summoned...it wasn't helping her keep the urge to jump into the fight herself submerged. She wanted to be in there more than anything. This shiva...the one she took back is not the one she oriignally released. She's much stronger...much more powerful and its taking everything she has to keep herself from losing control. She had to be relaxed and focused on something that wasn't fighting otherwise her newly returned inner hollow would take control of her and Shukumei was well aware that she might not be able to make Shiva submit. She needed to keep Shiva long enough to see Zetsumei defeated, then she could re-release the inner hollow and things would return to normal. Although keeping Shiva did possibly put an end to everything she may or may not haved had planned. A shinigami and his or her inner hollow are supposed to share knowledge, but she knows nothing of Shiva's future plans.

It doesn't really matter...in the instance she may lose control. Ryouji is strong enough to defeat her at least in that form he is...but if Shiva were to gain full control and completely hollowfy while within Shukumei...there is no telling what kind of things Shiva would do with a new body and Shukumei's strength on top of her own. Maybe she needed to go into seclusion. There was so much to think about and prepare for especially incidents of which she was originally thinking of.

Without word or warning, Tatsumaki's wings wrapped themselves around Shukumei and it caused her to smile. She continued to stroke Tatsumaki's hair that is until she was belted in the nose when Tatsumaki turned to get comfortable. She growled and just shook her head while using her free hand to check to see if she was bleeding.

"Shizune, is your Zanpakutou spirit this unruly and wild? Does it give you a hard time!?"

[Future Shizune]

When being spoken to by her Auntie, Shizune looked up and glanced over at her. She was in her own little world completely freaked out by the fact she was holding...herself more or less. She couldn't really compliment how cute the baby was because she was again...talking about herself more or less. It was just weird. She gave a funny look to the sleeping baby before shaking her head to answer her auntie Shukumei's questions.

"Mikomi doesn't speak much. She's very quiet and well behaved. I got lucky when we chose each other. All this time I've had her, we've never really had a conversation, but I know that she knows that she completes me. I would be lost without her. She is my Zanpakutou and I cherish her regardless if she rarely speaks or not. She just has this weird obsession with hair. I remember cutting mine ones and she didn't even look at me or point until it grew back. I guess all of our Zanpakutou have their weird quirks. Though I wonder what Daddy's Zanpakutou is like or mommy's. I wonder if either of them will allow me to see them!"

If it wasn't apparent know...Mikomi got her curiousity from her master. She was always wondering about things like that. It was a dream of hers to be able to meet her parents and now that she has she wants to see there Zanpakutou spirits...she would even let Mikomi come out and play if she wanted to.

[Yuri Nakayama]

Th battle between Yuri And Ryouji seemed to of lasted forever. Both were bloody and past the point of exhaustion. Neither wanted to stop regardless of how tired or injured they were. Blow after blow, they kept on fighting, removing parts of the Hollow shell. By now, there was just a few remnants left. "I haven't had this much fun in years! Don't think it's ever yet though!" The battle continued at full course until finally Yuri was unable to maintain the Hollow form or her Shikai. She removed what was left and a surge of pain coursed through her body. It appeared that the Hollowfied form was helping to suppress most of the pain and now that it was gone, it would hit her full force. It was enough to nearly put her down on her knees. As Yuri tried to take a step forward to continue fighting, she just collapsed.

With all the strength she had left, she tried to push herself up. She was only able to sit upright. "This won't stop me.. I can..keep going!" By sheer force of will and determination, Yuri was able to slowly stand on her feet, but that was all that she could do. Trying anything else would cause her to fall and if she did that time, she just wouldn't have the strength to get back up. "Do..Do you understand why I had to do this? Do you see..why fighting you was so important?!" Yuri was slowly stepping forward to Ryouji, holding onto her shoulder from it being injured. "When I first went to Soul Society, I didn't understand what was going on. I thought it was some dream or delusion that I was still alive. Then I got caught my Mayuri for whatever reason. Then, you saved me. I don't know if it was from pity or because it was the right thing to do but.. it meant a lot." By now, she was able to close the distance between her and her mentor.

"You took me in.. Gave me a place where I belonged. You taught me all that you knew even if I didn't believe in myself at the time. You were not only my Captain.. You were the first friend I made. More importantly.." The whole time she was speaking, she was trying to hold back her tears. Now, she just couldn't. Her head was lowered as the tears started to flow. "You were like a father to me! That's why I didn't want to believe you were evil! That was why I wanted to fight you after it was revealed you were alive! You did a lot of things for me.. Protected me and helped me grow. When You were killed.. It just..hurt. It was the same with Shukumei and Azumi. " It felt so awkward to be crying. she was trying to stop, but it was no use.

"Maybe I did depend on you too much. When things went wrong, you were always there. It just made..a void. I had to grow on my own after your death.. More so when Shukumei and Azumi died. Even though I knew it wasn't true, I felt so alone.." Letting go of her shoulder, she looked over to her arm that at the first mark of Zetsumei's insignia. In a way, it was like a reminder of what happened to her mentors and a strong influence to protect not only her family, but the rest of Soul society as well. Her legs started to wobble and eventually gave way, causing her to fall onto her knees. "So..Now you know why I was angry. Kind of stupid, isn't it? me, a grown woman crying like this.. Heh..seems a bit embarrasing..doesn't it?"

Yuri had started to rub her eyes to rid them of the tears. She was hoping that he and everyone else didn't see it. It appeared as the victory of the battle went to Ryouji. At least she gave it her all. "I..really did enjoy the fight. It was exciting to finally see you cut lose. It's.. kind of funny.. you know. Even in the past.. You're still..stronger than me."

[Ryouji Onigata]

After finally hearing the reason why Yuri wanted to fight him was because she lost someone important to her on the day his future self died. He couldn't help but feel sad for her, honestly he really didn't know how important he was in Yuri's life. He had almost nearly forgotten about saving her from Mayuri all those years ago...in fact it was almost as if she was always there to him at least. Finally he was able to revert back to wearing just his mask, he pulled it off and glanced down at her. This was rather awkward for him since he's never upfront about his feelings usually he hides behind witty retort and whatever other thoughts people have of him but this was something entirely different. She even shed tears for him...thats when he knew the severity of how she felt.

"I don't know what to say...I don't really know why he decided what he decided. Maybe he realized that it was time for you to grow up and become your own person. Maybe it was for revenge...or maybe it was for his daughter. It could have been any combination of the three. However I do know that if he lost Azumi than his reason for living went with her. I can relate. Sure I may not act like a typical husband acts, or buy her all of the things she desires, but she and my daughter are the most important things to me and without them I would have no reason to continue on. I live for them, just as you do for Megumi"

Ryouji glanced over and saw Megumi sitting there, she even cheered a little for him too which was a little strange but in any case he now knows what its like to have something of value and something you need to protect even if it does cost you your life.

"Yeah I figured she was your daughter. She looks just like you it was kind of hard not to notice especially when she stood next to our Yuri here. In any case I understand nor am I upset about it. Maybe this fight gave you the closure you've sought for so long. I on the other hand didn't benefit at all from this fight. I do know now that our Yuri will grow and become a fierce and strong Captain. Its also good to know that everything I did taught you has stuck with you. Its always good to have a student who listens. I can't take back the promise I made to you way back when, however I can promise you here and now that for as long as I draw breath in this body I will fight to keep our Yuri and everyone safe."

Shinkuremasu returned to normal and Ryouji placed his Zanpakutou into its scabbard before gripping it tightly within his left hand. He extended his right hand to Yuri to help her up. Upon doing so he hugged her before quickly releasing her and turning his back to her. He cleared his throat and lowered his head slightly.

"That never happened"

Several cut wounds began to show themselves on Ryouji's arms and chest and back, adding to the already large amount he already possesses. He grunted in pain before pushing it aside as best as he could though it was highly obvious that he was doing his best to ignore it. She got him good, he just wouldn't let her know how close he was to losing that battle himself. Though deep down, I think she knew that he was running on empty. If she had not been a visored like he was...then he was pretty certain he would have beat her effortlessly. However her determination, was something that made her stand apart from anyone he's ever seen. Today was a day that Yuri made Ryouji very proud to have been her Mentor.

"The next time you want to fight...just ask. If you punch in me in the face again I'll cut your arm and shove it through your left eye socket..."

Once he got in that last rub so to speak, he stopped in front of his wife and sat down next to her when he battles he refuses to be healed and would much rather let his wounds heal naturally.

"Will you bandage me up once you have a moment Azumi that is of course if you do not mind."

[Ayame Kojima]

After witnessing the touching moment between Captain Nakayama and the man whom he usurped the title of Zetsumei from he could not help but feel 'touched' in a sense. All of that frustration and pent up aggression all caused by the hand of death himself was shown to him. Perhaps the Captain was stronger than he originally gave her credit before. He began to clap slowly at the marvelous performance put on by the two of them. He was truly happy to see that all wounds heal themselves in time, especially emotional ones.

"Simply marvelous, I must say that I am truly touched by the battle the two of you put on. However I am afraid that the applause you two are receiving on my end must be cut short. It has been quite some time since we've last seen each other has it not Captain Nakayama? However I knew that you could not leave your pupil to do the job, so you came yourself to see how things were going...and you landed yourself a battle. Ironically, if I chose now to kill you, you wouldn't even be strong enough to stand on your own two feet, let alone stop me."

He stopped clapping and appeared in front of the large group of Shinigami, by the looks on their faces it was apparent that they had nearly forgotten about him, sure he vanished from view, but he never once leaves a mark on a victim unfinished.

"It's funny you know, isn't one of your codes to expect the unexpected? There isn't anyone here strong enough to stop me from slaughtering you all thus completing what I set out to do so long ago. Really you should have known better than to engage in such battles Captain, I'm truly disappointed in you. Just look at you! Shinigami are helpless, truly pathetic advocates of a lost cause. I'm going to enjoy slaughtering you Captain Nakayama and then I'm going to enjoy picking off those whom you hold dear once again and I'm going to start with Azumi...and then I'm going to move on to Ryouji...and then I'm going on to Captain Onigata...and then I'm going to move on to the one you call Shi...and then finally I will end your legacy by killing the one thing you love most. Your sweet innocent daughter."

Zetsumei began to laugh in a crazed rage. The conclusion of their personal feuds will end today. Then he would return and finish off the Shinigami one by one until none remain. This would definitely go down as the day all Shinigami fell starting with those whom he's killed once before.

Reaching for his blade, he slowly pulled it from his scabbard while continuing his crazed laugh. He began to speak in a strange tongue, praying for their souls before turning his head toward the rather unprotected younger version of Azumi Onigata.

"Have you made peace in your heart. Have you anything to say before your soul is destroyed Missus Azumi Onigata?"

[Future Shizune]

After watching the assassin Zetsumei make his claims to take everyone's lives...she couldn't believe it was like she was going to have to watch everyone she loved dearly be murdered. She couldn't let it happen...no she wouldn't let it happen. This was the man responsible for taking away her family and she wasn't going to allow it to come to fruition again at least not if she could help it. She...refused to sit by and let this man repeat the damage he's already caused to her. She was already angry...but when Zetsumei threatened to harm little Emi...that was when he crossed the line. She stood up slowly and turned to face her mentor. She had this feeling that she new what Shizune herself was about to do.

"I know you don't want me to fight him and I know you've always looked out for me and protected me Lady Yuri. I can't sit by and watch as he kills everyone I love. Its weird...in a way I owe him thanks. If he didn't come back to this era...I would have never met all them. I would have never seen them, or have gotten to know them."

Giving the baby over to her mother. She didn't even want to look at her, she could feel her fear as if she was going to lose her, but she wouldn't lose, not if she was going to protect everyone she loved and cherish. She doesn't want to forget anything she's learned while here. She would rather die than to let her baby self grow up without her parents like she had to in the future.

"Don't do this...he's strong and I don't want to see you get hurt! Let me heal Ryouji and he can fight...I just don't want you to be killed!"

Shizune stood up in front of her mother before turning to face Zetsumei even though it wasn't to long ago that she found out that Shizune was really the very baby she was carrying and now holding in her arms. She expresses concern for her and really does care about her well being, but this was a personal matter that she had to deal with herself or risk losing them all again, even she couldn't let something like that come to pass.

"It's okay. I promise!"

Stealing a play from her mother's book she used her mother's peace sign against her with a smile to boot. Her mother's expression changed almost instantly. Somewhere in her heart she could feel that her mother knew something. Shizune pulled off her haori's and handed it over to Emi.

"Wear it as long as you like and keep my mother and the baby safe. I'm counting on you Emi!"

It was almost like she was saying her goodbyes at least that's what it felt like for a moment. She wasn't going to lose to Zetsumei...not like when they first met. Shizune didn't know what to expect, but she knows how he's able to seal reishi to prevent Kido from being used. She wouldn't need either of those. Not anymore...

After stepping away from Emi she felt like she said what she needed to say and wouldn't stall for time any longer. She turned to face Zetsumei with her Zanpakutou tucked into her sash. She didn't know if putting up a barrier would be a good idea and all since he could easily break it down by activating his little device. To be safe, she did it anyway and set up a rather long rectangular style barrier.

"You took them away from me...you threatened the most important person in my life. No more running, no more hiding. It ends here for you Zetsumei. I swear on my families graves that you will die here."

Reaching for her Zanpakutou she gripped it by the hilt pulled it free while simultaneously swinging it in a horizontal motion. A trail of light followed her horizontal motion.

"Bankai"

A pure white wave of reishi surrounded her and when it vanished she stood there holding two medium length Kodachi, one in each hand and she was wearing her hollow mask. She took a deep breath before opening her eyes. They too had changed when she hollowfied herself during her Bankai transformation. She was ready now more so than ever before. With a flash step, she appeared directly in front of Zetsumei and attacked him head on. She had to stay on him or else she risked being injured or worse. If she had to keep him on his toes then maybe, just maybe she could finish this fight sooner rather than later.

[Yuri Nakayama]

Upon hearing and seeing Zetsumei, Yuri had to force herself up on her feet. Though she was in no condition to fight, she was going to fight him in order to end everything. That is, until Shi stepped up. Of course she wanted to tell her not to fight. she had raised her from a small person into the young woman she sees in front of her. However, she couldn't keep protecting her forever. Eventually, she would have to be on her own and stand up by herself just like how Ryouji wanted herself to do. With a heavy heart, Yuri let her go. "I understand. Do what you must. I shouldn't have to tell you to be careful." Watching Shi go over to Emi and hand over Haori did raise some concern. She just had to believe that Shi is strong enough to endure what was about to happen.

Slowly, she made her way to Azumi and Emi, sitting next to the two of them. when Emmi saw her mother, she just ran over and clung to her. the poor thing was sniffling and was on the verge of tears. "Please Mama! You can't let Shi fight! She's gonna get hurt more than last time!" It was too late to say to Megumi to mention that she was her daughter. Ryouji and Zetsumei already revealed it. All she could do now was to comfort and console her. She held onto her, keeping her close just in case something were to go wrong. "If I could stop her, I would. She isn't going to fight because she wants to, Megumi. She's fighting for what she believes in. Revenge as well. All we can do is cheer. We're here to help her if it is needed."

Megumi just held onto Yuri, not wanting to watch the battle. It was going to be rough, but they would just have to watch. If need be, Azumi and her sister could probably break down the barrier that Shi had put up. She was going to see her student fight without any restraint. "I have faith in her and you should too, Little One. We all do. Don't forget: I taught her what she knows and I was taught by Ryouji. She knows what be both know. There's no way she can lose."

[Future Shizune]

[Combined post for Future Shizune and Zetsumei for this portion of the battle.]

Now that the battle had begun, the two met on the center of the battlefield, each harboring malice and hatred for the other. Shizune was determined not to lose this battle for she wanted to avenge all of the family she had lost and to protect those whom she considers family now. Zetsumei on the other hand was determined to kill her and everyone else mainly because he knew he could, but if he had to go through this Shi woman than that's what he would have to do in order to finally be rid of the Onigata's once and for all. The have proven to be the most trouble some out of the group because for whatever reason they seem to posses the need to hinder the plans his hunters have had for quite sometime, even now with the last Onigata that remains in his time, her very existence angers him like no other.

"Playing the Hero will get you killed Shi...you will fail your master much like you've done in our first meeting. I will carve you up and feed your remains to the hollows!"

Shizune doing everything she could mentally not to allow his words to affect her fighting, continued to push forward. She found no openings in his offense or defense, he was truly a master of battle as the rumors claimed he would be. Even still, her father should not have fallen to this man, to only see how strong he is in this era...he should have been even stronger in her time. It just doesn't make any sense why he would die willingly. Its a thought that would always haunt her for she will never have the opportunity to learn why.

Shi jumped back to avoid a rather quick slash from Zetsumei's weapon and lunged forward to attack him head on, but when she went to strike, Zetsumei had vanished from in front of her. She quickly turned around to see him standing behind her. Zetsumei rushed forward and sliced her stomach with his blade. Her blood had stained his blade for a second time and it was apparent that his sword had hungered for more blood and it would be granted its wish by its wielder. Shi placed her hand over her stomach before shrugging off the pain. It was true it was like she couldn't even feel it while wearing her mask.

Zetsumei on the other hand stood in front of her and brought his sword down with a vertical slash Shi crossed her blades to stop the sword dead in its tracks. Zetsumei forced her down on to her knees where she stood. He began to laugh at her, he could sense that she was somewhat distracted. Even her arms were beginning to shake from all of the pressure she was holding off from his blade.

"What's the matter Shi...? If you want to defeat me...you're going to have to focus on me and only me...but who am I kidding. You'll never beat me even if you had a millions of years. The Hand of Death will not fall to an Onigata...not now and not ever!"

Zetsumei raised his blade and quickly turned it and jabbed it into her right shoulder, piercing it to the point where the blade exited through the back. Shizune screamed...she was being overwhelmed by his strength and his speed. Zetsumei chuckled and as he shoved the blade in further which caused Shi to scream even louder. Even her mask couldn't keep her from feeling what she was going through. He continued to chuckle, watching as his victim remained kneeling before his might. Even with all of her training, everything her mentor taught her, it still wasn't enough. Why isn't she able to overcome him, what made him better than she was. Is...is this what her family went through when facing him. Did Zetsumei just over power her father...did he really overpower her Auntie Shukumei...

Shizune grabbed on to the blade in her shoulder to keep him from pushing into her even further. She was afraid of losing and shaming her family's name. She felt like she couldn't beat him like she could going into this battle. Maybe she was destined to join them in death.

[Yuri Nakayama]

As everyone heard Shi scream, Emi reacted by staying close to Yuri, covering her ears. The poor thing was terrified. It was as if she wasn't feeling her own fear,but Shi's as well. All Yuri could do for now is rub her daughter's back to keep her calm. Yuri kept an eye on the two. Though Shi had the the resolve to fight, she didn't have the courage to go on with it. Is she scared? It was a silly question to ask herself. Of course she's scared. A lot is riding on this battle. If Shi doesn't win, she'll die which would break Megumi's heart and everyone else as well. How could she encourage her? She wanted to say 'don't be afraid', but she felt like that's something that Azumi and/or Ryouji should say.

"ignore what he says, Shi. He will do and say anything to unnerve you. You cannot and will never disappoint me. You've made me proud on how much you've grown from a small girl to the Shinigami Captain I see before me. Remember what not only what I taught you, but what everyone else did even if it seems faint. We're all counting on you." She looked down to Emi who had gained the courage to look at both Shi and Zetsumei. It was as if what her mother had said gave her the strength to look at the battle. Emi didn't want to lose her best friend in the world. She needs Shi as much as she needs her mother, father, and her new friends.

"You can beat him Shi! You're a Captain after all! You gotta beat him! Mama's right! You have us cheering for you! Don't let the big meanie get to you! You're my best friend! Kick his butt for all of us! You can do it! Right, Mama?"

Yuri gave a smile and nodded. "Of course, Little One. All she needs is more encouragement. So, let's cheer for her, okay?" Emi did just that. She was cheering her little heart out. Yuri then glanced over to Azumi, seeing that she still looked kind of worried. It was to be expected though. "I know you're concerned, but you're going to have to push that fear aside. Not only is Shi feeling her own fear, but everyone else as well. She's scared that if she can't beat him, she's letting her down. I would tell her to not be afraid, but it's not my place to. It's something that only you and Ryouji can do. Give her the words that she needs to hear the most."

Maybe hearing her parents say not to worry and just let go will give her the strength she needs. She's counting on them just as they were counting on her. "Be strong, Shi! With your hands, history will change!"

[Ryouji Onigata]

As badly as he wanted to get in there and help her out...she should not have to fight him alone but it would take far to long for him to be healed in order to join the fight and help Shi properly. He would probably be more of a bother than anything and it was that fact that bothered him more than anything. Even with the encouragement from Yuri and Megumi. It seemed like she was still afraid. Something was holding her back...

"Whatever it is Shi, if you want to live, then you need to let go of whatever is bothering you. You told us all that he killed your parents. You are a Captain of the Gotei thirteen. Stop letting whatever is bothering you bother you and let go. All that anger and pain are holding you back. Stand up on your own feet and fight! Azumi and I believe in you. Yuri and Emi, even Hina and Shukumei know you can do it. Give it everything you've got!"

There was nothing else he could really say to her. It was something that she was going to have to do on her own if she wanted to not only live but to avenge her lost family. If this was important to her, she would win on her own strength and nothing more. She had the strength to win, he could sense it from the moment she used Bankai...he felt that she was holding back...maybe it was the fear of losing or maybe the fear of losing everyone she loves. Maybe she was afraid to cut loose in general. Somewhere in Shi was a monster ready to be let out. He turned his back to the battle to speak to Yuri.

"Yuri...gauge Shi's spiritual pressure on a scale of one to ten with ten being the highest and be honest about it."

He was convinced that Shi was a lot stronger than she wanted people to know...who the hell were her parents. It was hard to describe what he was thinking, but he knew she wasn't fighting her best.

[Yuri Nakayama]

Upon being asked, Yuri tilted her head back to think. She wanted to give an honest answer and for that, she would need some time to think. She remembered when Shi was just a small girl and was in the academy. Even so young, she had the power to tear a large whole into the academy building. Upon her graduation, Yuri trained her further. All those years, she taught her all that she was. Each day she got stronger and stronger. When Megumi was born, the two just seemed drawn together. Of course, there was hardships, but Shi was able to cross them without trouble. She loves Megumi as her own sister. Was she scared of showing Megumi that other side? Regardless, Yuri had her answer.

"Let's put it like this, Ryouji. Ten just doesn't cover it. You should of seen her as child. So energetic and so strong. Though originally she was put in the academy for protection, I think it was more so that her full potential could be reached. Shi, if you're scared of letting go, don't be! It's not going to change how we think about you! Ryouji's right! You have to let everything go! You couldn't save your parents back then but now is different!" She had the power to protect herself and her family and to make sure her past self grows up with something she never had the chance to experience. "You can protect them now! If you let your fear hold you back, then you are letting Zetsumei win. It's scary, I know. Scary that if you do something wrong, then all your hard work will be undone. If you need more encouragement.. Think about what Zetsumei has threatened you with."

There had to be a way to get her to let go. Yuri thought that if she could at least give her the push that was needed, it would be worth it. Shi had the ability to end this once and for all. "He threatened our friends, Shi. He threatened the most important people in your life. Turn that anger into your own strength! You can do it! We all have faith in you but most importantly.. Have faith in yourself! Don't think 'I can't beat him'. It should be 'I will kill him'. It's not 'I can't catch him. It'll be 'I will catch him'. Don't think 'I can't kill him.' Think 'I can and will kill him'. Stop holding yourself back!"

[Future Shizune]

After receiving encouragement from her father mentor and even Megumi, Shizune knew that they were right. She couldn't be afraid of Zetsumei, not if she wanted to win. It was just that this man was responsible for singlehandedly killing her family, but that wasn't necessarily true at least not now. She turned her head slightly and saw that her family was behind her, not only literally but supportively as well. Regardless of what may have happened to her parents and aunt in her time, she still had them here and as long as they lived, nothing else mattered to her.

[Insert Mood Music: The Greatest Jubilee www.youtube.com/watch?v=QV3wFRy23cY]

Gripping the blade of the sword tighter, Shi began to chuckle quietly. With the force in which she was gripping Zetsumei's sword, her hand started to bleed and slowly she began to pull the blade from her shoulder. Zetsumei watched and laughed as he put all of his weight behind his thrust but the blade wouldn't go into her any further, not with her severe grasp on it.

"Aww the pep talk motivated you did it? Are you going to do your best now Shi. Even I know that its a lost cause and so do they...you are weak! You are nothing and soon you'll be joining your family if you think it will help you then by all means...show me your true power!"

He continued to laugh while standing there keeping his weight on the sword. It seems that the two reached and impasse. With neither of the two giving or gaining any sort of advantage with the other. Shizune continued to chuckle, with them behind her, she wouldn't lose...not anymore.

"Has anyone ever told you...that you talk...entirely to much? Say what you want...but regardless of the situation...I no longer have a reason to fear you. If it wasn't for you...I never would have had the chance to see them. They aren't dead...they are alive and well and intend for them to stay that way!!!"

With almost an explosive rage, Shizune's spiritual pressure began to climb at a steady pace. With her continued grasp on Zetsumei's sword, she continued to push the blade towards Zetsumei and in return pull it free from her own shoulder. Once the blade was free she didn't let go of it. It was with his sword's blade in her hand, she found her first opening in his defense. With one of her Kodachi in hand and with all of her hollowfied might behind it, she swung and cut his chest. Blood covered her blade, mask and hands once the slash was completed, she released his blade and picked up the one she dropped when she was stabbed. Upon glancing down at his chest Zetsumei laughed as the battle was getting interesting at long last, someone who was finally able to injure him.

"Its going to take more than that to be rid of me Shi. One of us is going to die here today"

Going on the offensive again, Zetsumei charged for Shizune as quickly as he could. Drawing back his sword, once nearing her he swung it with all of his might. Shizune raised her left arm and stopped the blade with her forearm before pushing the blade off and charging forward herself. She flipped the right Kodachi over and rammed her fist directly into his face, forcing him back. She knew his game plan and it was sad that so many have died for not seeing it sooner.

Shizune decided to keep the pressure on him and as he stumbled back she ran toward him. Zetsumei regained his composure. Zetsumei shrugged off the blow and laughed before running toward her in return. Zetsumei went on the offensive again and brought his sword around, while gripping it with both hands.Shizune performed a flash step and quickly appeared behind him.

Now she was certain of it...Unless he's on the offense up close he can be beaten. His defense wasn't his strongest suit, it was his weakest link, and now that she knew this...she was going to make him sorry for everyone he's ever raised his sword against. As the two turned around, their blades met once again and the struggle for strength had begun. Zetsumei had begun to laugh as he was able to force Shizune back a bit and then down on to her knees. Shizune grunted as she dropped down onto one of her knees, there was to much pressure on her shoulder, not only that she needed to keep him off of his game. She began to fends back on by concentrating and it wasn't long before she managed to reach a vertical base once again. She pushed Zetsumei back, however Zetsumei quickly countered and thrusts his sword forward, going for the killing blow. Shizune stopped the blade by grabbing hold of it. At the same time she tossed one of her own blades into the air before extending the arm forward, holding it directly in front of Zetsumei's face. She began to form a Cero and fire it at point blank range.

Zetsumei grunted and released the sword before flash stepping to avoid it. Shizune closed her hand to stop the formation of the Cero. When Zetsumei reappeared again she turned to face him. She reached up and grabbed her blade and began to slash both in several different directions before stopping. Light daggers had begun to form in the areas in which she swung her blades. She pointed at Zetsumei and all of them in unison headed toward him. Zetsumei jumped into the air to avoid them but Shizune extended both of her blades and swung them in an upright manner, changing their direction. Zetsumei looked down and noticed that they were still coming for him. As he had begun to move. Shizune appeared behind him with a flash step of her own and grabbed him from behind. She flipped over and hurled him down into the ground and then quickly changed the direction of the blades before they hit her, sending them down to Zetsumei once again. All of the daggers plowed into the ground one after another until none remained.


She floated there in the air waiting to see if Zetsumei was hit or not. Zetsumei crawled up out of the hole he made and it was obvious that he was hit in quite a few places. She narrowed her eyes before flash stepping and appearing in front of him. This was it, she would finish him here. She readied her blades and ran toward him and as she went to finish him off... he caught both of her hands with his own and stopped the assault before it even began. Thrusting his head forward, he headbutted her mask causing most of it to break off with the contact. While he was injured severely he wasn't going to stop, he wouldn't let this be his final battle He lifted her off of the ground and spun around before tossing her nearly half way across the room they were standing in. Once she hit the ground she grunted before slowly pushing herself up to a standing position. Began to breathe heavily before growling. She looked up as Zetsumei appeared above her. She extended both of her arms out to her side and gripped her blades tightly before jumping into the air with a veil of spiritual pressure coating her body. She performed a flash step and appeared in front of Zetsumei cutting him a second time. Using a combination of flash steps, she continued to vanish, appear and cut Zetsumei over and over again before stopping. Once finished she appeared above Zetsumei and kicked him down to and through the ground again before landing in front of the hole.

[Megumi]

After seeing the battle that Shi had to fight, Megumi left her mother's arm after seeing Zetsumei being dropped down to the ground. She was so happy to see that Shi was alright. She ran over to Azumi, soon tugging on her hand to get her attention. "Miss Azumi, can you please break the barrier? Shi won! We can tend to her now!" Azumi smiled, granting the little one's wish by breaking the barrier(s) that was keeping Shi from them. Emi runs over to Shi, jumping up as she tackles her onto the ground. Her eyes were filling with water as she sat on Shi's stomach.

"Shi! You did it! You beat the bad guy! I mean, I knew you would! I'm just so happy!"

Looking down to Shi, Emi sees the injuries that Shi had gotten, she just starts crying and hugging onto her. It was like before when she first got hurt by him, but worse. If only she were a bit older and stronger. Maybe she could of been some help or something. Well, that's not important. The main thing is that she's alright. Now that the battle was over, that would mean they would have to go back home. Emi just wasn't ready for it. "Mama, we can't go home just yet! We have to stay a bit longer! Can we? Please??" Yuri, who was getting up, made her way over to the two. She helped Shi sit up in which Emi just sat beside Shi. Yuri smiled, kneeling down to rub both of their heads.

"I suppose we can stay for a few days. That is, if our kind hosts wouldn't mind. Anyway, it should go without saying how proud I am of you, Shi. You've done well."

Yuri smiled, standing up and moves over to the hole, glancing down. It has hard for her to believe that it was really over. It was about time too. "Yay! You hear that Shi? We can stay for a few days! Yay!" She got up and ran over to Azumi and the others, smiling widely. She was happy that she decided to follow shi after all. If she didn't, she wouldn't of met everyone. "Hehe, isn't it great?? We get to stay for a few days!"

[Future Shizune]

After being tackle hugged by Emi and receiving praise from her mentor, Shi was actually very proud of what she accomplished. She finally was able to avenge her parents and her aunt and hoped that wherever they were now they were proud of her as well. Not only that, but she was able to protect everyone here especially Emi whom was the most important person in her life. Once Lady Yuri explained that they could stay a while, Shi fell backwards, almost collapsing to rest.

"Good...I don't think I could make the trip back right now anyway. Besides...I'm not ready to go either. It would be nice to just relax for a few days. Besides I believe Emi loves it here more than she does being at home. She gets so much attention and spoiled for her cuteness. I want too be spoiled to Lady Yuri!"

She sighed and closed her eyes. How could she even think to want attention like that. She should know better, it was nice to see Emi enjoying herself. She was a sweet kid so having fun was important. Right now however, she wanted to sleep more than anything but if she did she would probably bleed to death. Was it really over, the fight with Zetsumei? What happened to his speech of killing all Shinigami. He couldn't have been truly that weak she couldn't worry about it right now at least. She just wanted to catch her breath.

[Yuri Nakayama]

Yuri chuckled from hearing Shi's desire to be spoiled like Megumi was. She sat down beside Shi, taking off her Haori, tearing off both the sleeves, soon tearing them into strips as she starts tending to her great injuries. "Before you protest, it's fine. Have to stop the bleeding somehow, don't I? Just relax. You deserve it." She carefully wrapped the strips around the injury on her shoulder. It wouldn't be enough, but at least it would slow the bleeding process down. She used the remaining strips for the minor cuts and gashes. In all honesty, it was like taking care of her as a child all over again. The thought made her smile. "You now, it's not the first time I had to do something similar to this and I'm sure it won't be the last. I wouldn't change it for anything though."

Yuri then glances over to Megumi who was watching over the baby. If Shi could see Megumi being spoiled, then she would have to keep it to a minimum then. It would be hard with her having that cute, sad look on her face when she doesn't get what she wants. "Well, I guess it is to be expected she would enjoy being here more. It was always "you can't go outside. It's too dangerous". Here, she can actually be a child. It's natural to feel the way you do, Shi. You never had a chance to be a child. You were forced to be an adult at an early age. Now.. Now is different."

She can already see Shi and Megumi coming back on frequent trips. In a way she felt sad as people closer to her were slowly drifting away, but knew they would always come back. Plus, she wouldn't be entirely alone. She had Ronin to keep her company. She was reminded that only Shukumei knew that he was the father. Yuri chuckled again while shaking her head. "Now, you can get to be with your important people. Want me to help you up? Azumi is worried, after all. Maybe you could get her to heal your shoulder or something."

[Azumi Onigata]

After watching her baby go through what looked like hell. She was relieved that it was over. If it wasn't apparent to anyone else, she noticed without a doubt that Shizune was her father's daughter. She fought exactly like him with her own twist. It was something to behold. Maybe she noticed because she doesn't fight like everyone else or maybe it was because she relied on Kido or that she wasn't very strong in a physical sense. In any case, now more than anything she was happy that she was safe.

Looking down at the baby, she smiled before handing her over to Hina. Azumi stood up and walked over to where Yuri and Shi were congregating. When she approached the two of them she just stood there looking at her baby. Without word or warning she bear hugged her and held onto her for dear life, which prompted a rather loud scream from Shi since she was very much in pain from her battle.

"I'm so glad you're okay! Don't you ever...ever do that without help. That's why we are all so close, no matter what happens we support each other! We're a family!"

She released Shizune from the powerful bear hug and just hugged her normally. She was all torn up and hurt. If she kept fighting like this she too would have scars just like her father.

"It doesn't matter, I'm just glad you are alright. I know I've only know you to be my daughter for a little while now...but I don't want to see you hurt or worse. You beat him and I"m proud of you for doing it. In your honor I'm going to cook up a celebratory feast unlike you have ever seen! We're going to have a girly sleepover at my place we're going to cook and stay up all night sharing secrets and...eat a bunch of sweets!"

It would be nice to just sit back and relax its been so long since she's had any real fun. She was pregnant for the last 9 months then with the baby and all this fighting she wanted everyone to wind down and stuff there faces full of her amazing cooking.

"Ryouji serve us our food and we can make him do silly things like clean up behind us! It'll be like awesome to have a man slave wouldn't it! Oh and if you are thinking of saying no...you can't you're both coming even if I have to drag you there by your cute little cheeks."

Azumi smiled before skipping off to go be with the baby again while giggling