Back to a Familiar Place

[Megumi Nakayama]

Who knows how long it has been since she has seen Soul Society so full of life? People were out and about, talking as if nothing happened. How could they be so blind to the potential danger that lurks in one of the many different futures? Then again, they had their protectors. They had all of the Shinigami. Unlike her, there was nothing left to keep fighting for. It was gone and gone it was in a flash. Luckily for her, she managed to escape the onslaught even only for a short amount of time. The warrior wasn't without injury, however. At least her Shinigami robes will hide her injuries or so she would hope.

Each step was painful. Megumi never realized the extent of her injuries until entering this timeline. She knew where she had to go, but was it still where she remembered? Everything was pretty much gone. She was lucky enough to escape with what little belongings she could gather. It was mostly a few possessions that belonged to people closest to her. She got her hands on a scarf that her mother would often say belonged to Ryouji. She got her mother's Haori and would keep it safe no matter what. Most importantly, she managed to gather a group photo (courtesy of her Mother) of everyone together before she and Shi was born. Of course, there were other things, but she carried only what mattered the most.

Megumi had to stop, resting against one of the many walls within Seireitei. She couldn't stop, but it was as if her body would refuse to take another step forward. She knew if she couldn't get there in time, she too, may fade away as the others have. She couldn't just yet. She had to warn the others before it was too late. It may not happen here, but who knows? Her future is one of the many possible paths this timeline can take.

Forcing herself to continue walking along the pathway Megumi found herself in front of the Kusanagi residence. Thank goodness luck was on her side. Now, She had to go inside and warn everyone. Though, something did come across her mind. She looks so much different than what she used to be. Would they view her as an enemy since, well, they won't recognize her?It was a risk she had to take. If they did decide to fight her, she would have no other choice but to fight back and make them realize who she is.

Making her way inside the residence, she started searching. She was trying to sense everyone's spiritual pressure. It was kind of difficult due tot he fact she hasn't been around everyone for so long. Though faint, she could sense a few people inside the house. She couldn't make them out, but decided if they were who she thought they were, then it just made things a lot easier.

As she went to take a step forward, she felt weak and soon collapsed to the floor. It was embarrassing, but at least it was in a familiar place. She tried to push herself up to no avail. so, she would do all that she could do: Call out to the very people she came to see.

"Miss Azumi..M..Mama..If..either of you..or someone..is ther.. please..help me.."*

*To note, it sounds like she's barely able to talk, so it'll sound very faint.

[Azumi Onigata]

After hearing what seemed like a subtle voice and a thud, Azumi sat up slightly, it could be the twins playing some sort of game or something, but there wasn't any giggling or anything so she ruled that out, plus she thought that they had been put down for their afternoon nap. It was hard keeping up with all the children of the house. She placed her feet down on the floor and scurried to where she thought she heard the noise come from. She peeked around the corner with stealth like intentions. Maybe it was a burglar, in which case, she had a very nice kido for just such an occasion. Then again why would someone wish to rob them, they did live in District 1 of the north rukongai. Crime was almost non existent in this area. Plus its where the noble families lived. After sticking her head out further, all she saw was a hurt person with bruises and a bloody Shinigami uniform.

"Don't bleed on my floors! They were just cleaned earlier."

When she didn't receive a response from said person she hurried over and kneeled down in near the persons head and turned her over onto her back. She was so beaten up, poor thing. She quickly brought her hands together and performed a set of hand signs before hovering her hands over the persons body and began to heal them. There was so many bruises. Even with such a high level healing technique it could be a while before she completely recovered. At least for now she could heal her enough to the point where she could at least speak or move or something.

"What on earth happened to you. You seem like you've been fighting for weeks, your uniform is torn, you're filthy. Can you tell me your..."

As Azumi was giving this girl a look over, she noticed that scarf she was wearing...that scarf was unmistakably her husband. Has this girl known Ryouji at some point, not to mention has she seen him at some point. He has been gone for a little over thirteen years. Its possible that this girl could have seen him somewhere or something.

That scarf, it belonged to my husband. Where did you find it. Did he give it to you? Have you seen him within the last few years? Please give me some sort of information!""

[Megumi Nakayama]

[Megumi could hear someone talking, but couldn't make out their voice. Then, she could feel a warm light, or whate felt like it, and her strength was slowly returning. Someone must have found her and was using some kind of Healing Kido on her. After her vision returned to normal, she noticed who it was. She wanted to hug onto Azumi so badly and even attempted to, but stopped from the pain that was caused from moving.

Then, all the questions started to come at once. It made her chuckle. It turned out to be as she thought. They weren't going to recognize her. If she were to try, there would be no way o proving it, though lying wouldn't be a good thing either. She couldn't make them believe her. All she could do was just try and speak.

"My..mother often said it was his.. As for seeing him..can't say..I'm not from this era.."

Realizing what she said could be easily misunderstood, Megumi had to think of something else to say before it gets worse than what it already seemed like.

"My mother..being Yuri, that is."

She could see the look of disbelief on Azumi's face. She might as well tell her everything. Though her kido was indeed helping, she couldn't let Azumi continue to do so. Forcing herself to sit up, she looks to Azumi and gave a faint smile before letting it fade away.

"Does my news trouble you so? It was to be expected.. I don't expect you to believe me, but why would I lie? I would have no reason to.. As I stated, I am not from this time line, nor the one you may think when I tell you who I am. It's me.. Miss Azumi. It's Megumi."

Most of the injuries that were still fresh and bleeding had been healed. Still, should she elaborate in case there are still doubts? It wouldn't hurt.

"You could say..My time is more or less a break off of what you may already know. Confusing, yes, and I apologize. I know no other way to explain. This scarf is indeed Mister Ryouji's. Mama gave it to me the day.. On the day where what we knew became no more. I don't know if you recall or even know, but the twins are.. Are triplets. Jin Onigata... A monstrosity that should have never existed.. In a single week, he managed to not only destroy Soul Society but.."

Just thinking about the events saddened her. That day was suppose to be a grand one. The scarf was going to be a birthday gift, but a birthday soon turned out to be the beginning of the end. Everyone was gone and she was left alone and left with no other choice but to run away.

"Does running away from him make me a coward, Miss Azumi?I could have tried to fight back, and I have been, but to no avail. I had to run away.."

She hugged onto Azumi as tightly as she could, though doing so caused her to exhale a bit sharply. The physical pain meant nothing to the pain that was caused to her heart. Though, her actions were not without consequences? What if she was followed? There was no way she could let history repeat itself. Still injured or not, she has to get away.

"I thank you for healing me, Miss Azumi, but I am afraid I must cut our visit short. I would hate to be the reason of any bloodshed. I have no idea if I was followed. I cannot and will not let any harm come to you or your family and friends. I wish we could have met under better circumstances.."

[Azumi Onigata]

After taking in what this Megumi has told her, she felt so sad for her. Everything she's known and loved was gone, she was just by herself. No Yuri, or Ryouji, or Shi...anyone. Yet she knew about Jin, in fact it was because of him that Ryouji was gone. When she asked if she was a coward, Azumi shook her head.

"No, it doesn't make you a coward, there is no shame in retreating from a battle you have no chance of winning. You don't have to worry about us here, we're fine. You are more than welcome to stay."

After being hugged by her, Azumi sat there, she wasn't sure if she should try to console her although it wouldn't change much of anything. She was all alone in her time line. She wrapped her arms around her and held her as close and as tightly as she could without harming or injuring her further.

"Ryouji and Shukumei, followed Jin into the Dungai and haven't returned. Part of me wants to fear the worse for my husband and best friend, but I also want to keep my hope that they are both alive and will come home soon. I miss them terribly, but I have the girls here and my sister and Ayame and my evil cousin Harumi to keep me company. Megumi I know you may feel like you have to avenge everyone since its only you but, you are more than welcome to stay here with us. I wouldn't ever want you to face that monster all on your own. Whatever trouble comes we can face it together, as a family!"

Perhaps it was her maternal instincts taking over, regardless of what she wanted, this Megumi was a grown woman and could make her own choices. She didn't like the thought of her...well adopted niece out fighting. She could end up falling in battle and being killed and that scared her more than anything else.

"Oh goodness, how long has it been since you've eaten some decent food? Come with me I will dress your wounds and get you some food so you can keep your strength up."

Azumi released Megumi from the Kusanagi death hug and helped her stand and into the dining area so she could bandage her wounds and then make her some yummy food.

"Now lets get those bandages on, don't worry there are nothing but girls here, and the occasional guy but he is usually very good at announcing when he visits. Not to mention that..."

Azumi gasped as she felt like the weight of the world on her shoulders and head she was nearly flattened. That was a massive spiritual pressure, but it wasn't Ryouji. It was...Luna...that damned Arrancar was back.

"Its...Luna, no matter what Megumi you have to stay inside and don't get involved, she usually shows up to see Yuri but...she's been angry and wanting to avenge the loss of her Mistress."

[Megumi Nakayama]

There was no way Megumi could just sit and do nothing. Slowly standing up, Megum placed her hand on the hilt of her Zanpakutou, soon unsheathing it. She would have to fight Luna instead of Azumi. As it stands now, She has nothing else to lose. it wouldn't be fair for Azumi to be hurt when she has so much to look for.

"I..just can't do that, Miss Azumi. I..will fight her instead."

Azumi just couldn't let her go off to battle with the kind of injuries she has. Sure, they may be healed, but that doesn't mean Megumi was in the right condition to fight.

"You can't, Megumi! If you fight in the condition you are in, you will be killed!"

It felt nice after so long to hear someone be worried for her, but she has made up her mind.

"Then.. I won't get killed. I can't let you fight, Miss Azumi. You have people you have to protect. They need you more than I do. please.. Keep them safe. I will try to lead Luna away from here."

Before Azumi could stop he, Megumi used a flash step after getting up to make it outside to greet Luna. She understood the risk she was taking. Perhaps it was a deathwish, but still.. she will do her best to survive the upcoming battle. After picking up on Luna's Spiritual pressure, Megumi uttered the name for her Zanpaktou's Shiki, Flash stepping as fast as she could to where Luna was. After meeting up with the Arrancar, she stopped in midair in front of her, taking a fighting stance. The battle has barely started and she was already out of breath.

"This is..as far as you go, Luna. If you wish to go any further, you must go through me."

[Luna Cortez]

After seeing this fool approach her in an attack stance, Luna merely tilted her head to the side slightly and glared at her, she wasn't really in the mood to play around, she came to beat up on Yuri and then feel better. Even though that battle between her mistress and the traitor happened years ago, she could not get over how Shiva was defeated. The woman she loved and admired more than anyone or anything in the world was taken from her and she was itching to return the favor. Luna sniffed the air, she could smell the blood and hear how tired she was. This one was different than the one she was use to, the one that she practically watched grow up from that mouthy child to the girl she is today, this one had a look like she didn't care if she lived or died there was no mistaking it, their scent was nearly identical, this was a Megumi without a shadow of a doubt.

"Idiot, you're barely standing on your own, and you expect me to take you seriously, go back to Azumi and send your mother. I'd rather not kill you today. Even if I did want to rip the flesh from your damned bones, no one would come to your aid in time."

With Sonido Luna appeared in front of this weakened fool and wrapped both of her hands around her little neck and lifted her off of the ground while snarling. She felt herself squeezing harder and eventually slammed her down on the ground. Using her hand to brush the hair covering her eyes and face aside. She lifted her foot and pressed it against Megumi's throat, to choke her where she laid.

"You will die..."

Unsheathing her Zanpakutou, Luna slowly lifted it above her head slowly and a wide smirk formed to her face, her fascination of death was about to get sated for the first time in quite a while. As she went to end this wretched fool her blade was stopped by that of another Zanpakutou

[Ryouji Onigata]

[This will be a combined post between Ryouji and Luna]

After stopping Luna's blade, He narrowed his eyes and turned and glanced at her out of the corner of his left eye. For Thirteen years he's been attempting to find his way back home and now that he has, he wouldn't allow Luna to harm anyone else. With a flick of his wrist he caused Luna to stumble backwards and away from Megumi. For what ever reason he always had good timing in showing up just in the nick of time. Perhaps it was circumstance, it didn't matter all the same, Megumi was safe. The way Luna stared at him was as if she too was in disbelief as to who he was. He leaned over pulled Megumi up to her feet and produced a clone to watch over her. Once Megumi was out of harms way he stood up slowly and glanced to before turning his attention to Luna. When he turned to face her, she took a step back out of reflex to analyze the situation.

There was no way in hell that this man was the man she nearly killed so many years ago. She was staring into a dark void or sorts, there was no feeling or emotion, he was just there. It didn't make any sense to her. Ryouji has always been the type to be vocal about protecting his loved ones. He didn't even speak a word to Megumi. She was convinced that it wasn't him. The spiritual pressure was completely different, it was as if he became something else. Jin said that his family could transcend themselves and evolve,but she's only known him to be able to do something so drastic, it seems that he wasn't kidding when he said that they weren't like others. Ryouji sheathed his Zanpakutou and slowly began to walk toward Luna. She growled and jumped back to keep her distance from him.

He kept walking toward her and in her own rage she used Sonido and appeared high into the air. Ryouji glanced up as she appeared. She opened her mouth and unleashed a rather large Cero. He stopped moving as he watched the Cero fall down on top of him which created a large explosion of sorts. Luna began to laugh as she watched the cero collide with him.

"I see all that time away hasn't made you smarter, however I have become that much stronger! Lunamir Cortez is not to be trifled with, Shinigami! Now to finish the girl off and..."

Her eyes widened as she stopped talking. She was so caught up on hitting him with the Cero she didn't even notice that he moved and escaped her Pesquisa completely. Anyone with an ounce of spiritual pressure couldn't move through her pesquisa that way, not to mention her sense of smell was absolute. The thing that pissed her off the most was that he made no indication of telling her that he moved and appeared behind her. It was then she realized, that it wasn't him at all, but a clone. They don't produce spiritual pressure, She glanced around and noticed that there were several clones standing in different spots throughout the area.

If these were merely his clones then where was the real one? There was absolutely no telling where he was or could be for that matter. Mind games were not his style of fighting. He must have learned that from Jin. Using Sonido again she appeared at a distance with her Zanpakutou unsheathed. She turned the blade downward as it had begun to glow brightly.

"Eclipse...!"

Before she could finish, Ryouji was standing right there in front of her again. She was in disbelief, since when was he able to produce so many clones and not be weakened by the amount he's created.

She jumped back again and glared at him. A black reiatsu had begun to bleed from his arms and shoulders. Without word or warning, Ryouji quickly gripped his Zanpakutou and charged forward. Before he could strike Luna, she used Sonido and vanished and appeared on the ground. Ryouji glanced down at her. She decided that it would be best if she left, there was no reason for her to remain, she wasn't prepared to face Ryouji, in fact she was certain that he had died within the dangai, but his arrival says otherwise.

"We'll finish this later Ryouji!"

Opening a Garganta, she entered it and vanished completely, leaving Ryouji and Megumi to themselves. Once she had gone, Ryouji returned his Zanpakutou back to its sheath and turned and glanced at Megumi before walking in her direction. After reaching her, his clones had vanished and he continued staring at her. It wasn't his Megumi, but it was still Megumi nevertheless.

After giving her a look over to check on the severity of her Injuries, he picked her up and carried her to his home. There was so much he could say but opted not to say anything at all. There was nothing he could say to her at this juncture. He wondered why she would attempt to do battle with Luna alone, she herself was much different as well. There had been a change within her. He would have to find out the full story from the others later, right now the only thing he wanted her to do was to rest and regain her strength.

[Megumi Nakayama]

[this is a Combination post of present Megumi, this Megumi, and the twins.]

Was this man that was carrying her really Ryouji? He could produce clones like her mother said he could.. though he looks different, there was something familiar about him. The way he protected her.. how gentle he's carrying her.. Even the look in his eyes could tell who he was. So, it was offical, Ryouji was back. If he was back, then Shukumei had to be as well. She smiled faintly just before passing out.

After the present Megumi was done eating and sensed Luna's spiritual pressure, she quickly went to go find Azumi. Luckily for her, she was right at the door. However, Azumi looked very worried. What on earth for? Was it because Luna was getting close? she might not be a Shinigami, but she and Hina did teach her a lot of Kido techniques.

"Don't worry, Auntie 'Zumi, I will keep you and everyone safe!"

It was around that time that the twins came into the room, curious as to what's going on. They may not be able to sense things clearly, but they definitely knew something was wrong and it was scaring them.

"Emi.. Auntie 'Zumi, what's going on? Why does everyone look so scared?"

What could she tell the little ones? If she told them that a scary person was coming, then it wouldn't be good. She had to think of something that wouldn't make them more scared than what they already are.

"Well, someone is coming for a visit. We aren't ready for anyone to visit so we're gonna try and send them back home. After all, we're waiting for..."

Then, something just hit her. It was an unbelievable amount of Spiritual Pressure. It wasn't Luna's. she was sure of that. She saw enough of Luna to get a hunch on what it would always be like. This.. This was a lot stronger. Then, it finally came to her. With a wide smile, she turned to look to Azumi, even giving her a big hug. Poor thing seemed confused, but she would understand what she would say. Azumi was very aware of her 'ability' to sense out Ryouji even if he had clones out and about.

"We won't have to do anything, Auntie 'Zumi. I can't sense Luna anymore. I know you sensed that other Spiritual Pressure.. It seems really different.. but I know it's him. He's finally back! Uncle 'Ouji's on his way home!"

[Ryouji Onigata]

[This will be a combined post between Ryouji and Azumi]

After traveling the distance, Ryouji appeared out of a flash step in front of his home. Finally at long last. He honestly had no idea how long he had been gone, considering that time within the dangai its much more dense than in the Soul Society or down in the human world, seconds seem like days to him. He glanced at Megumi, she was out cold. It seemed that her injuries had caught up with her. As he took a step near the door, Azumi burst from the door and stopped and stood there, looking at the man and Megumi.

She couldn't tell if it was really him or not, the hair was longer, but it was black instead of white, his eyes were red instead of their usual color. There was barely any spiritual pressure to recognize him with, he was just there.

"Is...is Megumi all right? She wasn't hurt severely or anything was she?"

Ryouji took another step forward before kneeling down and placing her down on the ground. He stood up again soon after and turned and glanced at Azumi. There was so much he wanted to say to her but nothing would come out. He lowered his head slightly before returning to stare at her. Azumi took another step forward, wanting to get a closer look at the man who brought Megumi home.

"Are you really my Ryouji, are you finally back? You've been gone thirteen years. You've missed so much. Shi's a captain now in the Soul Society, Ami is working on becoming a Lieutenant herself. Emi, has grown up so much and she took your words to heart that day in the hospital while visiting your sister. She's studying to become a doctor"

She was on the verge of tears herself...the man she waited for was standing right in front of her and she wanted nothing more than to hug him and kiss him. She noticed the bandages on covering most of his face and kneck and well half of his upper body and torso. Was he injured that badly? She was so happy to see him but at the same time she was so angry with him for leaving, he missed his own daughter's birthdays and Shi and Ami's graduation from the Academy. Even the twins being born. She ran up to him and punched him as hard as she could, but when his head didn't even jerk from the impact Azumi stood there for a moment before dropping down on to her knees, while holding her wrist. She couldn't move her fingers or hand or anything her hand had gone completely numb. It was like attempting to punch solid steel.

"Damn it Ryouji...why did you leave us!?"

He turned his head to the side, it wasn't as if he had planned it all long, it just happened, if there was anyone who was going to defeat Jin, it had to be him and Shukumei...whom he hasn't seen in a long time. He was hoping that she would have beat him back, but he couldn't feel her spiritual pressure or anything. At last he turned to Azumi who had tears streaming from her face. He lowered his head again and decided it would be best if he answered her question.

"To protect you and the children..."

There was no other reason why he left in the first place. With Jin around there wasn't a guarantee that they would all be here now. He learned a lot about himself and Shukumei and the family as a whole while trapped in the dangai. There was a lot she wouldn't understand about him or Shukumei. Even as a captain, he was alienated from others because he was different. Now he knew why. The three of them while triplets, are not like anyone else. were created, right down to the fabric of their DNA and birthed.

They only had one mission, the reason they were born was to destroy everything the soul society stood, their 'mother' died after giving birth to the three of them and she was the only one who knew who their father is. It was a lot he had to cope with over the years, the information, why he was constantly able to evolve and get stronger, push his limits even further, his resiliency and all was factored into his genetic make up. He wasn't normal. His life wasn't meant to be what it is. Even if there was a slight chance of him actually living up to what he was created to do, then everything he knew and loved were in danger still. The danger would never be over and he wouldn't risk their lives any more than he already has. He turned away from Azumi who looked up at him.

"Azumi, I want you to know something, but I don't know exactly how to say it. I want you to know from the bottom of my heart and with every fiber of my being. I love you. It was because of you and the kids that I was able to find my way back to you. Despite it all, I can't stay here anymore. I.."

Azumi stood up and glared at him, she was angry and crying. How dare he say such things. That it was because of her and the kids that he managed to find his way out of the Dangai but now he can't stay because they are still in danger.

"You aren't leaving us Ryouji. I won't allow it. Those girls in there, including myself have waited a long time for you to come back and you have the nerve to tell me something so stupid! Protecting your family is your job Ryouji and if you aren't here to protect us then yes we could all very well be killed. You are my husband, damn it. I won't let you leave us. Those girls in there won't allow you to leave us and neither will Yuri."

Before he could say anything else she throws her self onto him and hugs on to him as tightly as she could. She began to cry even more. Thirteen years was a long time to be separated from the one you love.

[Little Emi]

[this is a combination between Megumi, the little twins, and Yuri. I also have permission to use Azumi]

As Ryouji made his appearance in the house, the little twins hid behind her. Maybe it was okay for them to be scared. they've only heard about Ryouji but never saw him. Granted, he looks very different. It didn't matter to her. Whether he looked the same or not, she knew it was him. She, too, was crying, but these were more or less tears of happiness on finally being reunited with her lost uncle.

"Uncle.. Uncle 'Ouji!"

She tried to more or less tackle huggle, but it was lilke hitting a brick wall. Granted, he did budge back just a few inches, but other than that, he stood in place. It wasn;t just now that she realized that she more or less flattened her Auntie and it made her freak out a little. Though, when inspecting things closer, she noticed her Auntie moved at the last minute. It made Megumi sigh in relief.

"I knew you'd come back! You've missed so much! While you and auntie Shukumei were gone during the battle, Mama won against Shiva! It was a very close call, but Mama did! Oh! You have to meet my little siblings! Ayane.. Ayumi, come here! Meet your uncle!"

They were a little scared to, but soon they went over to their big big sister. all they could do was star up at the rather tall man. They figure if their sister and auntie Azumi were safe around him, then they would be too. Soon, one twin clung to Ryouji's leg, huggling it as tight as they could. They were happy to finally meet him!

"Hey, uncle Ouji! We're happy to see you! Mama has told us a lot abotu'cha! I am Ayumi and that over there is Ayane!"

It wasn't before too long Yuri came into the house, seeming worried. She could sense Luna's Spiritual pressure from earlier and was on her way to deal with her. Now, however, couldn't sense anything at all. It was for the best. She was going to ask what happened, she noticed Ryouji. She was speechless. She wasn't sure if it was really him. She did notice how the twins were clinging to him. Not only that, Azumi and Megumi were both crying. It had to be him.. It had to be! He was finally home at last.

"I..I don't believe it. After all these years.. You've come back! It's about time! Where is Shukumei? Surely, if you have returned, so has she. Are you two alright? I'm sure you're hungry or..need tending to! Just let us know, okay?!"

[Megumi Nakayama]

[This is a combination post between the two Emi's]

While she was unconscious, Megumi was dreaming about all that happened. The loss of her mother, Shi, and everyone else. With her own hands, she buried her family. She was doing everything she could to make herself wake up, but could not. Then, came the dreaded words she never wanted to hear again. It was hisvoice. She would forever be haunted by that sound. There was nothing she could do to make it stop.

GYou still have much to learn. I will extend your time to think about it. Go talk to those who you cherish in the past while you still can. Trust me, I know everything that you and everyone has been doing for years. I know about your little visits. I could easily go there and turn their world into ours. You don't want that, do you? Go talk to them and I hope you come back with good news. If not, I will make good on my words. I will make you watch not only losing your family again, but also any version of yourself in that world. I hope we have come to an understanding.”

It was at that moment, she finally woke up, jolting up, and gasping for air. When she noticed her surroundings, she was back in the mansion in one of the rooms. Sitting beside the bed was another version of herself, using some kind of healing Kido. As much as she wanted to stop her, she couldn't. After resting back on the bed, she then let her other self continue to tend to her injuries.

"Why are you doing this? For all you know, I could be an enemy."

When the present Emi heard what was said, she just smiled and shook her head. She doesn't realize that she was there when Ryouji brought her in. She would make her see that and help her realize.

"You were out cold when you were brought here. It was obvious that uncle 'Ouji brought you here. He would never willingly bring someone that would hurt any of us here. Besides.. from how you look and by your Spiritual pressure.. you and I are the same or close to it, aren't we?"

She was amazed that even though there were differences, her other self could easily pick up on it. She chuckled a little before looking away. There wasn't much she could talk about nor did she want to talk about. At least, not to herself. It was no offense to this Megumi, but she would rather talk to the others alone about it.

"It's alright, you don't have to talk. I've managed to heal what's been done on the outside. The rest is up to you. I'm glad Uncle 'Ouji is back. Not only that, he saved you. Now please, get some rest."

Rest? Good luck with that. How could she be so...however she was about this? She was so..upbeat and happy.. Everything she was, this version wasn't it. At least.. one time line was as happy as they can be. She had to make good on her promise. She has to make sure she does the right thing so that no one gets hurt.

The present Emi went to where the others were and noticed how worried Azumi looks. Why was she looking like that? The only way she could know was to ask. When she got the answer, no wonder she looked so mad and upset.

"There's no way you can leave again, Uncle 'Ouji! You don't know what it was like for us with you and Auntie Mei-mei gone. Every little thing that we would do or say would remind Auntie
'Zumi about you. If you're worried about us being in danger, don't worry! We're okay now! Didn't you tell me when I was little that you fight for us so we wouldn't have to fight? With you gone, Shi and Ami had no other choice but to become Shinigami in order to keep everyone safe. I.."

She could understand why he wanted to protect them. Still, aren't they allowed to be selfish and make him stay here? He deserves to be here! She wouldn't let him go!

"I also remember the words you told me when I was little. " I would much rather you use your mind rather than your fists little one. It is never easy being a Shinigami, I fight for you and Shi and Ami so you won't have to when you get older". You can argue that they've already become Shinigami but.. That's besides the point! We need your! We may be old enough to take care of ourselves, but what about my little siblings? They need you! Auntie Zumi needs you! Mama needs you...and I do too! We need your support but more than that.. We want to be a family again!"

[Ryouji Onigata]

[This will be a combined post between Ryouji, Ayame, Shizune and Ami. I also had permission to use Present Megumi]

After hearing the pleas of his wife and niece, he lowered his head and sighed. He was certain if Shizune were here she'd be pleading with him just as her mother and Megumi were at this moment in time. It wasn't like he could tell them no and leave anyway. Megumi always had the ability to find him, and now that he was back and she could sense what little spiritual pressure he was producing, she could easily find him again. This was one battle he realized he couldn't win. Not to mention he wanted to be here when Shukumei finally showed up.

"To be a family again..."

Ryouji glanced down at the young one who was clinging to his leg, Megumi use to do that when she was young as well. He leaned over and picked the young one up and began to carry her as he made his way over to Megumi. He stopped and stood in front of her and just stared at her. She had gotten so big, she wasn't his little niece anymore at all. Rather than say anything at all, he merely placed his hand on her head and began to rub it like he would do Yuri.

"You've grown up and you're even taller than your mother. No matter where I am or where I go...we will always be a family. Don't you forget that."

After having the top of her head rubbed and hearing her Uncle speak, Megumi gave him another huge hug. She was so glad to have him back. Ryouji took a step back before putting the little one down for her to go and play. As he turned around, he had three swords pointed directly at him. They obviously caught him off guard as he was distracted by receiving a hug from Megumi, as he stared at them, he recognized one of them almost immediately as his former teacher and mother figure Ayame, who didn't look different even after thirteen years. As he started at Ayame, she approached him and rather than giving him a hug, she merely rammed her fist into his rib cage.He looked down at her fist as she left it planted in his side and sighed.

"You know you could have hugged me first. Always quick to fight, even after all this time. You won't ever change will you Ayame?"

Upon staring at him, he didn't even flinch, he just took it and kept talking like it never even happened. He was stronger, much, much stronger and she couldn't wait to see what he was capable of now. She also wanted him to see how well trained and versed his daughter's were now in combat. However, Shizune was sniffling, fighting back tears as she stared at the man, she knew it was her daddy, yet she was trying to keep her composure since she was an adult and a captain now as well. Ami on the other hand didn't seem to happy that he came back, it was as if she preferred it the way it was before he returned.

"So you've finally come home after thirteen years. Do you have any idea how many birthdays and dinners you missed father? How many nights mommy cried out for you, only for you not to be there when she needed you most. Do us all a favor and go away again. We haven't needed you in thirteen years, and we sure as hell don't need you now!"

Upon hearing Ami speak that way to her father, Azumi approached her and scolded her for speaking to her father that way. Azumi attempted to explain it to her but Ryouji stopped her before she could even start.

"No Azumi, I can see that she feels a little jaded from my leaving. Ami, It was never my intention to abandon you or leave for that matter, but Jin had to be stopped, so your Aunt and I followed him. I understand if you...."

Ami pointed her Zanpakutou at her father's neck. She was already beginning to get angry at the mere sound of his voice. He always had a reason for everything. Yet nothing he said made a difference. He wasn't here and she hated him for it.

"You don't understand a thing. My mother put on a front so that the rest of us wouldn't be sad that you left. She did her very best to keep your memory alive in our hearts. I made up my mind years ago that you had died. Yet you've come back, you just show up out of nowhere and expect everything to go back to the way it was before you left. She use to tell us stories about how you always came and saved her and how brilliant of a swordsman you were. I want to prove that I'm better than you father. I want to fight you and show you how strong I've gotten without you here!"

Ayame forced Ami's Zanpakutou down. She was...really upset that he left but she hides it behind that attitude problem of hers. However she did like the idea of fighting against Ryouji now. He had to have learned a few new tricks.

"I like the idea. However I want in on the action. There is no way I'm going to allow my little niece to have all the fun. Shizune, don't you want to prove how strong you are as well?"

She nodded to. She wanted to follow in his footsteps and became a captain just to make him proud, she was more than anxious to fight against her father for the first time ever. In fact its all she ever dreamed about even as a little girl. Showing him how strong she was and making him proud of her.

"I do indeed Auntie, sorry daddy! After the fights over I want to give you a big hug...okay?"

Ryouji on the other hand was just in awe, they were his family more than he hoped they would be, well with the exception of Ayame who loved fighting more than she loved breathing air. Now his daughter's were shaping up to be little battle mongrels themselves and Shizune...a captain herself. She's come a long way from being the little girl who loved to be held in his arms. He turned to Azumi who didn't want them to fight at all but this is how it always was, even with Ryouji and Yuri always fighting for some reason or another. Azumi took the little ones around back so they could watch the fight.

"Very well then"

The four of them performed a flash step and reappeared in the training area behind their home. He glanced around, this wasn't really big enough to contain the battle that was to come.

"Azumi..."

She already knew what he was going to ask and erected a four layer barrier to separate the battle from the house and well the little ones as well. She didn't like this at all, this wasn't going to end well and she could feel it. She was more worried about Ami acting the way she was. She's never been so vocal or disrespectful before.

"If this is going to happen, I want the three of you to not hold back.

Ryouji turned his back and distanced himself from the three of them. He gripped his Zanpakutou's scabbard tightly as he closed his eyes and waited for them to prepare. Ayame couldn't believe how arrogant he was acting, keeping his back to an assassin and her two students was well foolish. She gripped her blade and turned to Shizune and nodded. Shizune smirked before stepping forward.

"Bankai!!"

Shizune jumped into the air and was swallowed up by a huge wave of water. Eventually she dashed through the water and appeared above it, hollowfied and all.In her hand she held a two trident like spears in her hand, both linked together by a chain. She raised one of the trident's into the air and it had began to rain.

"AMI!!!"

Ami nodded and raised her Zanpakutou above her head and extended it out in front of her, pointing it at her father. A smirk formed to her lips

"Sear....Kajiame"

As her Zanpakutou took its new form she slammed the tip of her blade into the ground and released a huge wall of fire. Shizune raised her trident into the air again before pointing downward, causing a huge wave of water to fall from the sky. When the fire and water met a great deal of steam was created around the area. Shizune performed a flash step and landed on the ground near Ayame and Ami. Shizune turned to her Auntie Ayame and nodded. Together the two of them charged in to attack Ryouji head on.

It was a nice distraction, but they forgot one thing. He could sense their spiritual pressure. Ryouji raised the scabbard up slightly and gripped the hilt of his Zanpakutou. As he pulled it free, several walls of reiatsu formed around himself and the area before him. Himself Ayame and Shizune were trapped within. Moments later the walls vanished and he stood on the opposite end of both Shizune and Ayame. He placed his Zanpakutou back into its scabbard and both of them fell down onto their knees, covered in cuts and blood. Ami moved toward Shizune and Ayame. Shizune's mask shattered and she was breathing heavily.

Ami's eyes changed from blue to red as she turned and stared at her father. She gripped her Zanpakutou even tighter as she turned to him, glaring at him in anger. Ryouji raised his head slightly and glanced at her. She was being intoxicated by her own anger.

[Little Emi]

Emi could only stand and watch in awe. She watched the battle from behind the safety of the barrier, unsure of who to cheer for. She could tell by the look on Azumi's face that she hated the fighting. To be honest, Emi did as well, but could understand why they were doing it. She honestly believe it wasn't about being mad at Ryouji for leaving. It was more or less to show him how strong they had become during his absence. They put on a very vibrant display of power and showing a great deal of cooperation and teamwork. Still, all of that didn't seem to matter as Ryouji was making short work out of them.

There was nothing she could say nor do to make it stop. Though, she could tell how angry Ami was becoming. Usually when she does, her spirit pressure would change dramatically. When it became clear to her on how she could always find her Uncle no matter if he was hiding his spiritual pressure, she set out to hone that skill and more or less be a 'reader' of spiritual pressure. Of course, anyone can do it. It's just that she has a nature talent for it. She had to calm Ami down. If she didn't, then her Hollow would take advantage of her and she could end up getting hurt really badly.

"Ami, please calm down! Getting angry will not improve your chances to win!"

Unfortunately, her plea went unheard as she watched Ami continue her onslaught against her father and it wasn't turning out too well. She had to get in there and try to calm her down before the worst becomes a reality. Knowing the risks that were involved, she pleaded with Azumi to let her inside of the barrier. Azumi was really hesitant to do so. To let Megumi in would be putting her in harms way and if she got hurt, she would never forgive herself. Against her judgement, Azumi does open a path into the barrier so Megumi could get in to confront Ami. It was then closed off once she was inside safe and sound.

After seeing Ami hit the ground, she quickly went over to her and knelt down beside her. Even if Ami wouldn't listen, she would have to attempt to calm her down and get her and everyone else to stop the senseless fighting.

"Ami, you, Shi, and Auntie Ayame have done enough. You've proven how strong you all are to him. He may not say it, but I know he is proud. Please, can you just stop fighting? If you lose control of your anger, you'll lose control like you did before. Please, I don't want to see that happen to you. Will you and the others stop? Please?"

She had no idea if Ami would listen or not. Usually, when she gets mad enough, she lets go of reasoning and just goes..berserk. She had to stop that before something happens that Ami might regret.

[Ami Onigata]

Has he always been the way he was now...so damned strong. He took them both down in one move...how dare he show up and flaunt such strength, where was that strength when her auntie Yuri needed it to defeat Shiva...it was angering her. Even with Emi attempting to calm her down, it wasn't helping at all. She was so angry at him for not being here, it was like she couldn't even control it anymore. She used her Zanpakutou as a crutch to help her stand. She eventually fell back down to her knees...

"Emi...get...away from me..."

Upon hearing Ami tell her to get away, she shook her head no and hugged on to her tighter, she wouldn't let Ami lose control of herself again. She gave her word that she would always be there for Ami and she meant it. Not to mention she didn't want to see Ami and her Uncle 'Ouji fighting.

"Ami you don't have to do this...please. I don't want to see either of you get hurt!"

Ami pushed herself up to a standing position There was no reasoning...she was already struggling to listen to Emi while her inner hollow was feeding into her anger.Telling her to attack him...to fight with him and use that anger as a weapon. To make him regret ever abandoning her. She never believed he abandoned her family...but she was just angry at him for leaving them for so long. Her arm was shaking as she raised her Zanpakutou up into the air and she pointed it at her father.

Ryouji narrowed his eyes as he watched his own daughter raise her blade to him. She was angry and that was to be understood, this was reminiscent to him, it was just as he went through all those years ago with his inner hollow. She was losing control of herself, but fighting to stay in control of her own actions at the same time.

"Emi...get away from ME!!!!"

With a rough shove, she pushed Emi away from her as she began to growl rather loudly. She began building up spiritual pressure; it even made Azumi look on in shock. Who would have guessed that her baby had that much spiritual pressure? Ryouji glanced over to Emi and attempted to head over to her to at least console her or tell her not to worry, but Ami cut him off by standing in front of her.

"B...b...ban.."

Ryouji narrowed his eyes, judging by the spiritual pressure she was building, it wouldn't surprise her at all if she was about to utter what he thought she was going to say. With Emi standing that close to her, it was more of a risk than a reward. Emi wasn't a battler like the rest of them. With a flash step he vanished and appeared in front of Emi and vanished again moving back to where he was standing.

Upon seeing him touch Emi...that was it...she couldn't contain herself any longer. She had begun to scream as she began to pour out every ounce of spiritual pressure she had. Ryouji was even a surprised. She was...a monster in her own right. What could he possibly do to stop her from raging that way without harming her?

[Insert Mood Music: What can you see in their Eyes]


As Ami stopped screaming, she looked to her father with half of her hollow mask formed. She rushed toward him and as she went to strike he performed a flash step and appeared where she was originally standing. As he went to turn around his face was palmed by Amy and she pushed him up against the barrier and eventually the two of them broke through it and crashed through the wall to the house.

Harumi who had been lying on the sofa relaxing, screamed as the wall was blown through and Ami and Ryouji kept moving at full speed and eventually crashed through another wall and ended up in the front of the house. Ami raised her blade above her head and attempted to stab Ryouji he gripped the blade and forced himself to sit up before throwing Ami off of him. As she landed, she used her Zanpakutou to slow herself down and eventually stopped as the blade cut through the yard. She ran forward again in her blinded rage, as she moved in even closer, Ryouji raised his right hand and pointed at her.

"Bakudo number sixty-one...Rikujōkōrō"

Six thin beams of light rammed themselves into Ami's midsection and paralyzed her on the spot. she kept struggling and trying to free herself, she roared even louder as she began to release even more spiritual pressure. As Ryouji watched, he had no choice but to put an end to this before she continued to hollowfy and became a complete hollow.

Reaching for his Zanpakutou, he gripped the hilt and pulled it free and slowly raised it above his head. He turned his wrist slightly and prepared to unleash an attack to put Ami down for a little while so she could calm down. As the reiatsu gathered Emi appeared in front of Ami with her arms spread wide, she was protecting Ami from her uncle to prevent him from hurting her.

"Don't do it Uncle 'Ouji, please just let me talk to her and calm her down please!"

After hearing from Emi and sensing the seriousness in her tone, Ryouji closed his eyes and sighed before sheathing his Zanpakutou to allow her to attempt to talk some sense into Ami before things got further out of control.

[Little Emi]

It really broke her heart in seeing Ami fight like she was doing. She was fighting without regard for her own safety. Having to watch her mother fight Shiva and barely surviving is what made her change her mind about becoming a Shinigami. That was when she decided to follow what Ryouji had told her in the hospital. That was when a dream was born. It may sound childish or impossible, but that dream was to make sure no one else would have to fight. If there was fighting, both sides were going to get hurt no matter what. She was going to put a stop to this battle one way or another.

"Ami, it's me. It's Emi. Please, you must calm down!"

Ami just let out a thunderous roar as she continued to struggle free of the Kido. Though she understood why Ryouji did it, but it seems without the freedom of mobility, it would only serve to make her more angrier than she was. she turned her head back to Ryouji, giving a light smile. She knew what she was going to do was a risk, but even if she doesn't care to fight, she can easily defend her own if she had to. Not that she would against Ami.

"Forgive me for doing this, Uncle 'Ouji, but this kido is doing more harm than good"

Placing her hands on two of the beams, Emi focused a little, and with some effort, she broke Ami free of the binding kido. Now, she had to keep Ami focused on her before she goes back to fighting Ryouji again.

[Mood Music insert: Here to Stay

"Come on, Ami. What has you so mad? You put up a good front, you know. But.. What truly has you angry? You don't believe he abandoned us, do you? You just.. really missed him, haven't you?"

It seems like she had Ami's full attention. It was very nerve racking. She had to be careful with what she said. Though she knew that Ami would never hurt her, She couldn't say the same thing about her Hollow. The Hollow feeds on anger.. If Ami were to attack her..it could easily persuade her that it was all because of Ryouji. She wasn't going to let either of them get hurt.

"You said it yourself. He missed so much. He missed us growing up. He missed us doing so many things. He missed greeting my siblings into this world. He missed seeing Mama finally getting over the doubts she had locked away. However.. He was suffering as well. Like you, he hides it very well. He did what he had to in order to keep us safe. If we were in his position..would we do the same?"

Emi slowly went up to Ami who slowly backed away. It was as if she was beginning to realize what's going on. Still, Emi approached her and once again, hugged onto her. Ami had always been there for her as they were growing up. What kind of person would she be if she didn't help in her time of need?

"He only did what parents are suppose to do. We may not agree on his methods nor understand..but he did it to protect us. If he didn't care, Ami, he wouldn't be here. You heard what he told me. It doesn't matter if he's here with us or not. We're always a family. So please.. Let go of your misplaced anger. Let your true feelings shine.. More importantly.. Become the person that's always been there for me. I believe in you, Ami."

[Ami Onigata]

[This will be a combined post between Ami, Shi, Azumi and Hina. I also have permission to use Little Emi]

Hearing what Emi had to say, Ami calmed down a little bit. She made sense of it all but she was still angry for leaving. Why couldn't he have stayed with them and defeated Jin here, there were times where she wanted to spend time with him and hug him and tell him how much of a good father he was to her and Shi, but she never had the chance. reaching up to her half formed mask, she began to tug on it. The hollow attempted to stop her but it was to little to late. As she pulled the mask from her face, Ami returned to normal and fell down onto her knees while breathing quite heavily.

After Emi helped her up she turned and looked at her father who was still staring at her. She couldn't tell if it was a disappointed look or one of surprise. It was just vacant. She turned to Emi and gave her a huge hug, if it were not for her things could have turned out quite differently.

"Thank you Emi...for helping me find my way back."

After releasing Emi from the hug she stumbled toward her father and stood in front of him with her head lowered, she was actually sad that she allowed herself to get that angry, even though she didn't really mean what she said, she was just so frustrated with him not being here.

"I'm sorry, father...I just...was so angry. I wanted you to be here to congratulate me on graduating from the academy..."

Ryouji placed his hand on Ami's head which prompted a slight gasp from her, she wasn't really expecting it. She thought he would have been angry with her for allowing her hollow to take hold of her again. She looked up at him after he removed his hand from her head. Honestly he felt bad for having left them the way he did, he didn't realize that he had been gone for thirteen years, Time within the dangai passes much more slowly than on the outside, be it the human world or the Soul Society.

"Ami, I want you to know something. It wasn't my plan to leave you or your mother or Shi or even Emi. I've caused a lot of unrest with everyone. There is nothing I can do to make up for the lost time, but I want you to know that I am proud of what you have become and I know you can become a captain one day just as Shi has and I'll be here to help you, no matter what."

After hearing her father speak so positively to her she looked up at him and began to sniffle. He was still just as caring as he was before he left, from what she can remember. She wanted to be just as strong as him...stronger even. Regardless of which she was glad that he had finally come home.

As he went to hug him, Shi, jolted passed her with her arms wide open while screaming "Daddy!!!" but before she could steal her moment, Ami pounced on top of Shi to stop her.

"No, Shi!!! I get to hug him first!!! He's my dad too!!"

Shi rolled over and literally kicked Ami off of her and turned around and clawed her way to her father. but before she could touch him, Shi had grabbed her leg and pulled her all the way back toward the house before getting up and running to him again. Shizune was always a daddy's girl, but Ami wanted to be a daddy's girl too!

Ami pushed herself up and performed a flash step to catch up with shi and the two began to race toward their father with their arms spread wide open.

Azumi on the other hand watched as her babies fought over who got to hug their father first and giggled. Even though they were older now, they still acted like little girls. Ryouji on the other hand merely shook his head. At any case, before either of them reached him, he put his hand up and forced both of them to stop. He looked at what Ami was wearing and didn't approve at all his little baby had the body of a woman twice her age and it just didn't sit well with him, Emi's outfit wasn't right either. Then again he couldn't really say much, if he was here, neither one of them would be wearing what they are wearing now, that's for certain. Eventually he lowered his hand and sighed allowing the two girls to continue their little foot race for their father's affection. As they got closer to him, the two of them ran face first into a barrier which knocked them both over onto their backs. Emi giggled before stepping up to her Uncle and gives him a rather huge hug.

When Ami and Shizune realized what happened they looked to Emi and was upset that she did that, stealing the father and daughter moment that they had raced for!

"Emi you little cheater!!!"

Upon hearing Shi call her a cheater, she merely turned her head and gave her a raspberry before going back to hugging her Uncle again. The sisters got up and ran over to Ryouji and joined in on the huge hug that Emi was giving to him. He shook his head before wrapping his arms around all three, hugging them back.

While the four of them were wrapped up in their hug, a senkaimon appeared behind them. As the doors slid open, the head of the Kusanagi clan stepped out with her bodyguards and servants following her. As she looked around she noticed that her nieces were hugging some strange man. She shrugged, honestly she couldn't care less who it was, she was happy to be home after being away for a few weeks. As she walked passed them she stared at Azumi before waving.

Her attention however was diverted from her sister to the gaping hole in their home. Her jaw literally hit the ground as she stared at it. Immediately she went on a tirade in their native tongue. Things were said that are better left unmentioned but none of them were particularly good. Azumi merely rubbed the back of her head and giggled before calling her Zanpakutou. She walked into the house and used her Zanpakutou's ability to revert time within the area of the house, returning it to before Ami and Ryouji tore the house down...literally speaking.

When she came out, Hina tackled Azumi to the ground and began to shake her violently for allowing such a travesty to happen while she was in charge. She shook her head before releasing a huge "hmph!" before entering their home to make sure things were exactly they way they should be.

[Little Emi]

Emi could only giggle as the four of them were hugging each other. After seeing Hina come back and the house more or less being fixed, she could only laugh a little. She then decided now that it was time to heal the worn out out fighters. She went over to Ayame and pulled her over to where the others were at. Now it was her chance to show Ryouji and everyone else what she has learned!

"This is something I kinda came up with myself. It's a bit of a mix so.. You'll just see in a bit!"

Since she more or less studied under Azumi and Hina in Kido besides the other stuff she has learned, she has picked up on their handsigns over the years. After they were complete, Ryouji and the girls (Ami, Shi, and Ayame) were surrounded in a small, transparent barrier. She could tell that they seemed a bit un-at-ease and decided to tell them as well as show them. The barrier then started to emit a glow, beginning to heal the people inside of it.

"It's been something I've been working on for a while now.. It's my first time trying it."

Of course, it was taking all that she had just to keep it up and get them healed. At least the injuries were just minor cuts and bruises and would be done in no time. As the cuts faded away, so did the barrier. Emi just smiled widely, trying to hide the fact that she was already exhausted. She didn't realize it was going to be that difficult.

"See? You're all better now!"

As she was going to stand near Ami, she could feel her legs give way and caused her to fall. Her cover was now blown. She could already hear it now. They were going to tell her to not over do it and to take it easy. It's easy for them to say! Though it was kind of funny. She was wondering why she wasn't on the ground looking up. As Emi glanced up, she got her answer and smiled a little. Finally, things were returning to normal.