A Family Reunited!

[Saya Tatsuya]

It had been ten long years since the last visit and so much has changed. First and foremost. The most awesome duo of cousins ever Saya and Aysane Tatsuya were teenagers. Totally cute teenagers who could get away with things most children their ages couldn't. Why? Who knows...aside from the fact that they were amazingly quick learners and hard as hell to catch in the slight instance that they did do something wrong. It was far easier to allow them to have their way or else well you'd get exhausted trying to catch them for their punishment! It didn't matter though, today was a special day. A day that Saya and Aysa have both been looking forward to for quite sometime.  After many many moons of begging and pleading and behaving to an extent. Megumi has finally agreed to take the girls on a trip to see the rest of their family in a different time era.

This wasn't their first trip as the last time they had gone back it was Aysa's third birthday! Saya and Aysa got to meet the younger versions of their mother and Aunties and even Ryouji and Azumi! Saya was quite excited in all actuality. For the longest time she's wanted to see her mother, at least in the era they were traveling to. Her mother passed away 8 years ago after not being able to fight anymore. It was with the help of her Auntie Shiori that she was able to fight for an extra two years through a rather unorthodox method of Kido and medical practices. She wasn't sad about her mother's passing. She merely wanted her to no longer suffer. Aysa, Megumi and Yuri took it far harder than she did. She had the chance to say goodbye and tell her how much she loved and would miss her and that was all that mattered. Sure it sucked that her mom was gone but she was still alive and young and awesome in the era they were traveling to visit! 

She only wondered why Megumi took so long to agree to take them back. It didn't matter, still the Tatsuya cousins were beyond excited! They were all packed up and ready to go! After saying their goodbyes to Yuri and their fathers and Ryusei, Saya's now adult big brother. The three had left and eventually arrived to their destination. Ten years had passed and everything looked exactly the same. Nothing was out of place and their was silence as they stood near the front door. According to the time it was almost breakfast.  Granny Azumi should be hard at work fixing this huge feast! She hoped that they made extra because now the true black holes had come back for their first visit in forever! The two girls began to take off for the front door when they were stopped by Megumi almost instantly the two of them in Unison let loose a huge "Awwww!" in response because they couldn't wait anymore. She reminded them that nothing would change even if they were around family, they are still expected to train and train hard and to behave themselves. They agreed and instantly rushed for the door. As they moved to knock, they sensed and felt several different Reiatsu. Saya and Aysa turned to Megumi to see what she wanted them to do. She pointed upwards and the girls followed the point of her finger to see where she was telling them to go. They looked at each other and smiled and in Unison performed Hirenkyaku (The Quincy Equivalent to Shunpo/Flash Stepping) to reach the roof as they were instructed.  Following behind her daughter and niece, the three of them remained as inconspicuous as possible while seeing what was going on. Saya activated her Kisagara to get a better look at the Reiatsu or Spirit Signatures of those involved.

The fact that they had been gone for so long made it hard for her to see who was who. Clearly she could see that they were training. They had to do their best not to be caught but it wouldn't be easy, considering that aside from herself, her Grandmother, Azumi, Her Aunties, Ami and Shiori also had Kisagara to which they could use to see everything. There were several that felt familiar, and three that did not. She still couldn't tell the difference without making a mental note of who was who. To even perform such a task she would have to associate people and their Reiatsu Signatures and commit them to memory. It didn't matter. She was ready to see everyone! The three attempted to ease away from the edge of the roof so they could sit up. The moment they were out of view they turned around and were caught immediately by Azumi, Shizune and Ami who had their Zanpakutou's sheathed but ready to defend themselves should the moment arrive.

It hadn't even been six seconds and they were caught already? Saya and Aysa couldn't contain their excitement anymore.  They both stood up and upon getting a good look (and saya memorizing what their Reiatsu looked and felt like) at everyone.

"Grandma!!"

It was the only thing she had to say...Azumi immediately stopped using her Kisagara and got a good look at the one who addressed her. She had grown quite a bit and looked almost identical (with the exception of her hair color) to her mother!

"Saya? Aysa? Megumi!! We were wondering when we'd see you three again! Well don't just stand there get up and give me a hug!!"

Before she could finish a her sentence completely, Saya and Aysa ambushed Azumi and hugged on to her tightly. Even going as far as to squeeze her as they hugged her! Saya was super happy to see her grandma again, considering when they first met it was under completely different circumstances, she actually saved her mother from being pinched to death because she reminded her grandmother that she was actually a grandmother! After releasing Azumi, Saya and Aysa saw whom both wanted to see for forever! Saya glanced at her mother who was standing there in shock as well. Both were on the verge of tears. Eight Years was a long time to stare at pictures of someone you missed terribly. 

Shouting at the same time "MAMA!!!!" and "AUNTIE SHI!!!" the two girls tackled and hugged onto Shi so hard and tightly that the three of them fell off of the roof of the house and crashed onto the ground. Shizune screamed as she forcibly fell over but once she hit the ground she wrapped her arms around both of the girls who were sobbing and happy to see her.

"I can't believe how much you two have grown! Hi to you Lady Emi! I would hug you but as you can see my hands are a bit full but I'll give you one soon!"

The cousins couldn't even speak as they were kind of sobbing. Shizune forcibly sat up and kept her arms around the girls. It wasn't hard to figure out what happened. Her future self had to have passed on which would explain why they were so happy to see her again after all this time. She just sat their and rubbed their backs while attempting not to tear up herself.

"The next time you two want to hug me at the same time, can we please not be on a roof when you do it. That kind of hurt...a little! In any case I'm so glad to see you two again. You're Aunties and I have hoped you would have come back a lot sooner! Either way I'm so glad to see you two again!"

Saya wiped her eyes quickly and smiled at her mother. She was beyond happy to see her again too and Aysa hadn't moved since she latched on to Shizune's waist! She did take it quite hard when The Future Shizune passed so it's not totally unbelievable that she missed her the way that she has. Shizune was her most favorite Auntie ever and enjoyed when they spent time together which they did quite often. 

"I'm happy to see you too Mama!! Where is everyone else?"

Shizune answered by telling the two that everyone else was inside. Forcing herself to stand up she pulled the girls up with her so they could stand on their own feet. Saya dusted herself off. Since she wore all white, it was easy for her clothes to get dirty. Aysa on the other hand still hadn't released Shizune from her much awaited huggle! She didn't want to not huggle her favorite Auntie, eight years when you lose someone at her age at the time had to be difficult for sure.

"Shizune, I'm going to go inside now, I figure with our guests, I should help and make a lot more breakfast. Ami dear, bring their things inside, I think Shizune will be a while."

Shizune nodded before turning her full attention to Aysa who was hugging on to her still. She wrapped both of her arms around her niece from the future and hugged her as tightly as she could. Shizune rubbed her back and stood there for as long as she needed to keep Aysa happy. Shi wondered if she was going to hug her father that way too. She was very close with the one she often called, Mister Uncle 'Ouji. It was quite cute actually when she was a little girl and met Aysa's mother for the very first time, she called her Miss Lady Emi! Her mother told her that Lady Emi even held her when she was a baby, so she is quite fond of not only the future Emi but the present Emi was her bestest best friend in the world too! Still this was about Aysa for now, the girl who sneaked into her room as a toddler and just laid on her chest just to be near her. She was a tad to big for that now but she would huggle Aysa for as long as she wanted to.

[Ryouji Onigata]

Completely Unaware of the visitors who had come to see the family. Ryouji stepped outside into the backyard he was followed by his sister of course whom happened to take the day off from her duties as a Captain of the Gotei 13. He stretched so hard that his back had popped loudly and sighed after all. Shukumei approached him and stood next to him as they looked off into the distance. Honestly in ten years, nothing had changed between the two, despite being a tad bit older, they were still the same overly-competitive twins who would do anything to secure a victory over the other. Yet instead of immediately beating each other up at the behest of Azumi, they would converse first, and then beat the unholy hell out of one another.

Ten years ago, nearly to the day, their eldest sister, Rini or Rin as she preferred to be called was defeated by their shared pupil Yuri who had sought revenge for the death of her husband; and her best friend. With that victory, they haven't really had a need to fight. Nothing has gone wrong at least not yet nor did they hope it would. They basically spend all of their time talking and training together, remembering how things use to be during the chaos. Things were not easy...when Azumi revealed herself to be Zetsumei or at least the original, things were tense for a while but eventually they got better. Shiori and Megumi are doctors with their own clinic in the human world and in the Rukongai.

Honestly he hated the fact that they would travel to the Human World but at the same time, they were adults and he couldn't stop them, not even if he wanted to. Ami and Emi finally married! So not only is Emi his adoptive niece of sorts, but also his Daughter-in-law. Their relationship could never change. She will forever be the little girl that had so much love for him that she always wanted to spend time with him. Little Uri or Yuriko was a teenager and quite book smart. Unlike when she was a child, she doesn't sleep all day. She enjoys reading and helping her sister Shiori in her clinic as much as she can.

Then their was the youngest Onigata, Asuna. She was the child that Rin spared when Azumi attempted to fight with her and discovered that she was pregnant. She had always smiling and happy until you begin to treat her like she's small and a child, then she frowns and becomes angry. Ryouji and Azumi had all daughters and not once did he complain. Unless they were trying to date or something, then he becomes full blown over-protective father. He's even like that with his nieces! Does that make him a bad Uncle or father figure, he doesn't seem to think so. With him being so protective over his family, they don't have to ever worry about being hurt emotionally or physically...unless they are in a battle.

In all honesty, now that things were rather peaceful, he found himself bored to tears. Fighting is all he knows and it's all he's ever done and now that that has been taken away from him, he feels sort of empty. He enjoyed spending time with his family but that wasn't enough. Training with the girls didn't satisfy that need. He would fight with his sister but they've done that so many times there is never a decisive winner anymore. Granted she use to beat him at everything, now the stood on equal footing, especially now that she can hollowfy and truly benefit from it.

He could return to work but he wouldn't be a Captain anymore, there weren't any vacancies left. Not to mention he didn't think Shizune or Ami would enjoy being cmpared to their father and his work ethic now that they were Captains themselves.

"You know Ryouji, I could actually use your help with whipping my squad back into fighting form. Truth be told, our runs and training have become rather stagnant. Perhaps it would be a good idea to go and let you fight with them. It worked wonders when Ayame visited Shi's squad all those years ago, they are actually afraid that she may come back to train with them again."

Ryouji smirked, it did seem like a lot of fun and it would definitely be different than training with his daughters for sure. He nodded and agreed, it'll be a good way to work off all the rust he's gathered. He folded his arms against his chest and sighed. Considering everything that he's gone through in his life. Discovering his origins, the origins of his twin brother and sister and Older sister. To Rin proving herself as the final Test for Yuri. To his wife revealing that she was this ultra badass. It was a good life. While he was deep in thought, he was snapped out of it by hearing someone shouting "Grandpa!!" When he glanced over in the direction it was coming from he saw a flying teenager heading in his direction. He flash stepped out of the way and when he reappeared in a different spot. He glanced around and was immediately tackled from and thrown to the ground from the force.

"Grandpa!!! I missed you so so so so much!"

He was immediately squeezed and it made him grunt in pain. Saya was giggling the entire time. She absolutely adored her grandfather. Ryouji pushed himself up from the ground and then stood up and glanced down at the girl hanging from his waist.

"Saya?"

She nodded and let him go and stood up and immediately wrapped her arms around him again and squeezed him a second time. It has been so long since they've seen each other. She's grown to be quite a 'strong' young lady. To be honest it was an understatement, she was crazy strong. He returned her hug with one of his own. He looked around expecting Aysa to crash into him from somewhere but when Shizune came around the corner she saw Aysa litterally being dragged as she walked.

He chuckled upon seeing her not wanting to let Shizune go. It was clear how much she loved Shizune. He didn't know if there was anything he could say that would cause her to let go of Shizune, it wasn't fair that she got a hug from her and he didn't, considering how much they bonded on her birthday all those years ago. Aysa seems to be a tad on the tall too.

Either way it was good to see them again after so long. Shiori had plan to spoil them rotten for all the holidays and every year on Aysa's birthday she brought more and more gifts, not just for Aysa but for Saya as well. Sadly a great deal of them were clothing and they are much much to big for most of it now but it was the thought that counts.

"Where is Megumi, shouldn't she be with you? I would like to see how she's doing and ask her if you two have been behaving for her!"

[Aysa]

Eventually, Aysa did let Shizune go. She only done this since she saw Ryouji looking over to them and she was beginning to feel bad since she didn't give him a hug! The teenager then got up from the ground, giver her favorite Auntie one more hug.

"Don't worry, Auntie Shi! I'll be back!"

With a giggle, Aysa Shunpo'd away in attempt to tackle hug her uncle. However, since he had fallen for that with Saya, he was prepared.. somewhat. Next thing the girl knew she was skidding of the ground and her uncle wasn't there for her to give a hug! So for a moment or two, the two were tryng to out shunpo the other but aysa was right on his tracks! She was then able to appear right in front of her uncle and tackled him onto the ground, hugging as hard as she could like she hasn't seen him in forever! Which she hasn't, so it all works out!

"I've missed you, Mister Uncle 'Ouji~"

It wasn't before too long that the Future Emi showed up. She looked..exhausted! Who wouldn't be after trying to keep up with those two? Hayate wasn't too far behind and like his wife, he too, was exhausted from trying to keep up with the overly energetic girls. The Emi from the future gave a wave to Ryouji, watching as her daughter went from hugging him to going back to Shizune and hugging back onto her again! Looks like she won't be getting a word to Shizune. That's alright! Just as long as her daughter was happy, that's all that really mattered.


Coming to see the commotion, Hina slid open the door of her room and ventured outside, seeing her uncle, nieces, Shizune, and her sister from the future. Saya and Aysa have grown up a lot! That, and they seem to be able to keep up with Ryouji just well. Would today be the day she finally gets to talk to Ryouji? Hina did slowly approach everyone, glanching to her uncle as she tried to gain the courage to speak to him.


"H..Hey.. Uncle R..Ryouji.."

After Hina had the attention of her uncle, she totally freaked out if it wasn't evident by a astonished gasp which made the girl scurry off. It wasn't that she wasn't afraid of him. It's just that her vision can't tell his personality and that's what has her so skittish. She knows that if she ever needed him, he would be there for the time being. So, once Hina was back inside the house, she went and found Azumi to give her a big hug and to tell her hello.

[Azumi Onigata]

Azumi was quite happy to see Saya and Aysa again. She loved their energy and how they were so full of life and love for their family. Not to mention they were absolutely gorgeous! She was a little jealous of them being so young and all but she loved them dearly all the same. She walked into the kitchen to help the servants with preparing extra food for their guest. She even put on her favorite apron and everything. As she reached for a knife to help out one of the servants smacked her hand causing her to draw it back and gasp. "Lady Azumina, we will take care of the food preparations for everyone including your guests. Your granddaughter has come along way and you should be out there with them catching up!" Azumi still couldn't believe she had her hand smacked like she was six years old! She sighed and took off her apron. She did have a point, she would much rather be outside with Saya and Aysa and her husband and everyone else.

Azumi put her apron up on the rack and made her way to the back door area when she was ambushed by Hinata who greeted her with a big hug and greeted her. Azumi wrapped her arms around her tiny niece and smiled happily. She loved all of her nieces but Hinata had a very special place in her heart because she wasn't shy around her at all like she was with Ryouji. It actually made her feel loved that someone wasn't all about Ryouji like Emi was. Though Emi was still very special to her as well as were Ayumi and Ayane!

"Morning sweetie, did you run away from your Uncle again? You know I have special eyes too and I can tell you, if he wasn't a good person, I would have never married him! I know it's different because he hides himself. It's only so that people who may attempt to hurt you or your cousins and sisters can't read what he really feels! If an enemy could see it, they could use it against him. Even if he does make you extremely shy, I'm always here for hugs!"

Azumi smiled before pulling Hinata outside with her. She sat down on the steps and pulled Hina down to sit with her and keep her company while she watched Ryouji, Saya, Aysa and Shizune interact with one another. Hard to believe that this was her family, it wasn't so long ago that she felt that she and Ryouji would never be together. Yet here they are, five children, four nieces and two grand kids later, still very much in love!

There was a bit of a rocky road when she spilled the beans about her being the Original Zetsumei or Azumina The Fang but time does indeed heal all wounds and now it's like they aren't even bothered with the fact that Azumi no longer has to pretend to be the damsel in distress. She honestly wish she had done it sooner. There should be no secrets in the family, she was just so afraid of how they would take it. Yuri from the future especially. Considering a Zetsumei murdered her future self and Ryouji's future self. It just made everything even more difficult. She wouldn't want that to deprive Saya or Aysa of coming to visit them again. After all it has been ten years.

[Saya Tatsuya]

Saya was having so much fun being around her family again. She was super glad that her Auntie decided to bring them to visit! Even though she and Aysa were ten years older than when they originally visted, it was like nothing had changed at all! Her grandmother Azumi never looks like she ages! Which is amazing because she's like mega old. It was told to her that even know she's STILL older than her grandmother Yuri! Grandma Yuri was mega old too! She wondered if her grandmother Azumi could keep up with her, because Yuri and Megumi couldn't catch neither she nor Aysa even if they wanted to! She's never actually seen Azumi fight or anything but she has to be strong right? She was curious to find out. After breaking away from her Auntie, and Grandpa, she scurried over to her grandmother who was sitting down with her Auntie Hinata! Word had it that she was super shy around people and didn't want to frighten her off so she merely waved before returning her attention to Azumi.

"Hey Grandma! You know, I was curious. I know you're like nobility and stuff, but I was wondering how come you don't fight like everyone else does? Did something happen to you that keeps you from entering battles yourself? When we got here I saw you helping train Mama and Auntie Ami but I've never seen you pick up a sword or anything! I know you are a master kido user! I also know that because you're nobility you are cut above normal Shinigami...so tell me. Why don't you fight?!"

Azumi looked to Saya and shook her head. What sort of question was that to ask and ask to be answered. Saya was never around when she did fight so naturally she's never seen it. Shizune turned around and brought little Aysa with her as she approached her daughter from the future and her mother who was staring at Saya oddly. Shizune attempted to interject herself into the conversation by answering on her mother's behalf but Azumi covered Shizune's mouth with her hand. She knew her daughter meant well but Azumi was capable of answering a question of the sort on her own.

"I fight plenty Saya dear, it's just that you're never around to see it! Now that there is nothing going on that would require me to fight, I don't really have a reason to...at least not at the moment. Why do you ask? Do you think because I'm your grandmother that I am incapable of fighting? Certainly you cannot believe that to be true considering your Yuri remains in tip-top shape and pristine fighting condition!"

Saya shook her head. She knew that just because she was ancient, didn't mean that she was out of shape or wasn't capable just merely curious because she's never seen her fight at all. She's seen her grandpa fight and that's only because she sparred against him. She' seen Shiori fight and Ami and even her mom fight but never her grandma and she just found it rather weird considering their whole family enjoys it way to much! Saya sat down on the opposite side of her grandma  and stared at her.

"I would never say something like that Grandma! Your age has nothing to do with anything! It's just I've seen everyone battle with the exception of you! I am just curious is all!"

Azumi smirked and Shizune was shaking her head in the background attempting to relay the message to Saya to not ask anymore questions but it wasn't working at all. There was nothing wrong with being curious after all. Shizune knew what her mother was capable of and has been on the receiving end of her mother's rough training. To put it mildly, her mother was even more of a monster than her father let on to be. She's her some crazy stories about her father and how strong he was! Yet her mother was different. You could tell she was dangerous just because she never stopped smiling and smirking! It was creepy!

"I tell you what dear, after breakfast, how about you and I come out here and have a sparing session of our own! It'll be interesting to see what Megumi, Yuri and your father and Uncle have taught you. Considering you have the means to use not only Shinigami abilities but Quincy as well.Seems to me that you favor the Quincy side of things and it's been a very long time since I've seen a Quincy in action so I hope that you would be willing to show me!"

The look on Shizune's face was of sheer horror, even to the point where Aysa glanced up at her and hugged on to her tighter and asked what was wrong. Shizune snapped out of it and glanced down to Aysa and rubbed her head. She was afraid worried. Saya learned the hard way about how strong her grandfather was, but now she was going to learn the real secret of the Kusanagi, the truth behind why everyone with Kusanagi blood are the way they are. Azumi glanced up at Shizune and giggled. She could see it on her face and it was as clear as day! She was worried but she had no reason to. Azumi merely put this option on the table to see how much Aysa and Saya have progressed with their abilities. Saya nodded and cheered and agreed. She couldn't wait to show off for everyone and make her Auntie Emi proud!

[Yuri Nakayama]

Yuri was in her office, working as usual. However, instead of reports, she was helping oversee the Seireitei Communication paper to make sure everything was going as it should. The editorial office was chaotic as various Shinigami were running aroundd, doing this and that. Despite the Without a word, the captain left. What had her anxious to go there? The woman shunpo'd as fast as she could to get to the clinic. It wasnt just a normal clinic. It was operated by her eldest daughter and niece. Well, nieces, really as Yuriko (Will check the post later to see if this needs changing) worked there as well with Shiori.

Once arriving, Yuri saw the damage and her instinct as a mother was to worry. Not that she wasn't. Regardless, Yuri kept a calm disposition and walked inside, looking for her family members. Thankfully, once she found everyone, they were alright though.. wait..

The captain contemplated calling for some backup, but considering what she saw, there wasn't need for any. Emi agreed to stay while Yuriko went with her aunt. Once they made their way back home, Yuri had just arrived to hear Azumi suggest a sparring match with Saya. What brought that on she has no idea but unfortunately, it would have to be postponed.''

"I hate to interupt your plans for a spar, but something came up. I had received word that the clinic Megumi and Shiori runs. It was a complete mess, but Yuriko should be able to explain what happened. Speaking of Shiori, she's.. Not fairing so well. She's being treated at the Fourth Division barrack."

Yuri was surprised to see that someone could knock Shiori down. It wasn't like her to get beaten at well.. anything. It wouldn't seem too farfetched that she must have been caught off guard.

[Ryouji Onigata]

Upon hearing Yuri deliver the news of what happened to Shiori at the clinic she and Emi owns, Ryouji, Azumi, Saya, Aysa, Shizune and Hina were sharing a similar expression of shock and awe to say in the least. She was at the squad four headquarters, hurt. Who could have done such a thing to her? Who could be strong enough to do such a thing. He wants to know who is responsible for the attack. Yuriko ran from her Auntie over to her father and hugged on to him. She was worried for her big sister whom was attacked and she saw it all. She explained everything as she remembered it. Yuriko was quite upset and demanded to be taken to see her sister to be with her while she recovered. All of them wanted to go and check on her but it wasn't a good idea. If Shiori was being targeted, then whose to say the entire family as a whole isn't being targeted.

"Shizune...take her and stay with her. I'm going to head to the Clinic to see what I can find out. Azumi I could use your Kisagara as well. You may be able to notice spiritual signatures and help track whoever did this. Saya and Aysa, will you stay and hold down the for us until we return? I know..."

Before he could even finish, Saya was shaking her head. She wanted to help too. Shiori was her favorite Auntie next to her Auntie Emi, she wanted to help in any way she could and staying home wasn't going to help anyone. Then again she thought about it. Her grandpa wouldn't intentionally ask her to stay behind if it wasn't important, especially with something like this happening. What if the people came and her grandma Yuri and Ami couldn't handle them, at least with her and Aysa here, that person wouldn't stand a chance against the duo. He was trusting both of them to keep everyone safe.

She nodded and hugged onto her grandpa and her Auntie Yuriko both. Ryouji stood up and placed his hands on both Saya and Yuriko's heads. He forced a smirk but truth be told he was angry as hell. Who ever did this to Shiori was going to pay for it dearly. No one ever gets away with harming his children or grandchildren. He would have to find his sister and Ayame and ask them to come here to keep an eye on things as well.

"Alright Azumi...lets head to the clinic."

She nodded and hugged on to Hinata once again before standing up. As the two prepared to leave two individuals clad in hooded cloaks appeared some distance away from the group and grabbed everyone's attention instantly. Ryouji narrowed his eyes upon staring at the two out of the corner of his eye. With a confident chuckle, one of the merely said "If you are looking for the two responsible for harming the woman with the Kisagara...you needn't look any further...we are they."

That was all Ryouji needed to hear with a flash step left where he was standing and appeared above the duo with his Zanpakutou in its Shikai form. As he moved in for the attack, the taller of the two stepped forward and gently pushed the smaller one back and stopped the blade with a bare hand. With a hard shove, Ryouji was pushed back where he landed on the ground with a bit of distance between the three. Azumi shouted for Ryouji to stop but he wasn't going to listen. That was his baby who was harmed by these two. Azumi was actually quite bothered. He knew of Shiori's Kisagara...yet how? Perhaps while Ryouji was distracted with the bigger one, she could move and subdue the smaller one for answers.

Ryouji rushed in for round two and once again his blade was caught in the bare hand of the taller individual and pushed back a second time. Ryouji slowly raised his hand up toward his face but before his hand could cover it, the larger individual's hand was gripping Ryouji's wrist to stop him. Ryouji smirked as Azumi jolted toward her husband and the individual and quickly ran past the them as she headed for the other individual. As she closed the distance. Azumi was cut off be the larger individual who attempted to cut Azumi off by throwing a kick directly into her ribs but before she could connect. Ryouji was right there to block the kick attack to his wife. Azumi rushed ahead but her leg was grabbed and she was sent hurling backwards after being thrown. Ryouji jumped back and caught his wife before putting her down on the ground. Once again thet four were separated by a distance.

"Who are you and why did you attack our daughter?"

The smaller individual stepped forward to answer the question.

"We hail from a time to where vengeance was stolen from me. I've come back to this time frame to take it and make you suffer as you have made me Suffer. The Kusanagi and Onigata's will be finished. Your daughter did her very best to stave off the beast that is Zetsumei The Destroyer but she failed just like you will fail and fall."

Another Zetsumei? This one is being called the Destroyer...what time frame could he have come from? Where they supposed vengeance was stolen. Could they be from the very same future that Saya and Aysa hail from? They had to be, how else would they know how far to come back to find them. Azumi and Ryouji were both ready for round three, only this time it would serve to work in their favor. Azumi and Ryouji both raised their hands to their faces and hollowfied immediately and both rushed in a second time only for an unexpected individual to cut both of them off by grabbing their hands and flipping them over onto the ground to stop them. Ryouji glanced up at the individual and saw it to be Aysa who stopped them.

"Aysa...? Why did you stop us!?"

[Aysa]

It did bother Aysa that she had to stop Ryouji and Azumi from attacking one of the individuals, but it had to be done. Even Yuri was surprised that her grandchild could stop the two of them so effortlessly along with the fact she was even stopping them in the first place. To make sure they wouldn't try attacking again, Aysa stood in front of Ryouji and Azumi although her back was turned to them.Why couldn't they sense the same thing she could? Perhaps their anger of Shiori being hurt was clouding their ability to sense Reiryoku and Reiatsu altogether.

"I'm stopping you two from making a horrible mistake. I won't let you attack this person!"

That was when the teenager pointed to the larger individual in front of her. She had a feeling that the reason why Shiori was beaten so badly was that she, too, figured out who this individual was and refused to fight back. she wasn't happy that it had come to this. She was very upset, but in times like these, you have to control your feelings unless you wanted to end up getting hurt. Still, she had to explain why she stopped her uncle and aunt from attacking the person she was pointing to.

"You can stop hiding, Auntie Shi!"

Everyone had a shocked look on their face. Why would the Shizune from the future suddenly change this much to become a Zetsumei. That's when her grandmother spoke up.

"You must be mistaken, Aysa. There's no way that that person can be Shizune! She died from her illness, remember?"

Aysa knew very well that Shizune had died. It really had left her empty as that was her most favorite aunt besides Shiori and the present version of Shizune. She also knew that others would doubt her so she was going to have to stomp it out and prove that it is who she says it is.

"I wish I was, but I am not. I know without a shadow of a doubt that this is Auntie Shi! I know it's her just like Mama from this time can sense where Mister Uncle 'Ouji is at. I can't explain it, but it doesn't change the fact that I know! I don't need any special ability to see! Doesn't it strike you funny that Auntie Shiori got hurt in the first place? She came to the same conclusion as I did and couldn't bring herself to attack her. That's why I had to stop you and Auntie Azumi from attacking her. If you had attacked and found out it was her, you two would have felt really bad!"

Aysa's eyes then shifted to the other individual, narrowing slightly. She just knew that he was controlling her aunt and if there was any way she could stop him, she would.

"I don't know who you are and at this moment, it doesn't matter. You either release whatever hold you have on Auntie Shi the easy way or we can do it the hard way. Just know that if you do choose the hard way, it will be the last mistake you'll ever make."

It may sound out of her normal cheerful demeanor, but she will not stand for someone hurting her family! She was itching to use her Quincy abilities, but was unsure if she should or not. If she called correctly, everyone seemed rather surprised of Saya's Quincy Spirit Weapon. Would they know that she was half Quincy as well? More than likely but just in case, she would only rely on her Shingami abilities in this time period to play it safe. Aysa then unsheathed her Zanpakuto and with a Shunpo, she quickly closed the distance between herself and the larger individual, preparing for an attack. For now, he was her main focus. If she could get rid of him, then perhaps whatever was making Shizune act this way would be done with.

[Saya Tatsuya]

Upon hearing what Aysa had to say, Saya had no response. She couldn't even formulate a sentence. The thing is that she believed Aysa. No one would know her mother better than Aysa as they were incredibly close. The way she stopped her grandparents and protected the one she said was her mother. She wouldn't just do that for any particular reason. Aysa would never hurt anyone she cared about but she would do anything to protect those very same people. Despite all that, how was it possible that her mother was alive again? Who was this guy and how could he have the power to resurrect the dead. By what she knows, Shinigami who die at least pure ones are meant to be resurrected and live again as humans. That was when the male of the two approached her mother and took off the mask she was wearing and revealed it to be true...Aysa was correct...and the collected looks that everyone shared spoke volumes as to how they were feeling.

"M..m...mom?!"

Saya dropped to her knees. There she was...but her eyes were lifeless. It was like she was a shell. She didn't even recognize her or speak or say a word. How long has she been like this? So many questions and she wanted answers. She pushed herself to her feet. Saya reached up to her neck and pulled off her locket and wrapped it around her left wrist. She extended her left arm out and conjured her spirit bow. She quickly aimed it at the male and drew back on the string and let loose and arrow which was caught by her mother as it passed her. The man laughed as Shizune crushed the arrow in her hand and moved in front of him to protect and shield him from further arrows. Saya lowered her bow. She was acting like a total puppet!

"How interesting, Saya and Aysane Tatsuya, the half Quincy and Shinigami duo. You two are quite famous for your antics. Tell me, how does it feel to see your mother and Aunt again after so long? How does it feel to know that your voices will never reach her. How does it feel to know that she is a slave to my power? She is no longer Shizune Onigata-Tatsuya but Zetsumei the Destroyer! Destroy your niece and you can have your daughter for desert my puppet!"

Shizune raised her hand to her face and hollowfied. Upon doing so Future Megumi attempted to rush toward her daughter but was stopped by Saya. She demanded that Saya step aside so that she could protect her daughter. What her Auntie didn't know is that Aysa could take care of herself and she was a lot stronger than what she appears to be. Considering that she'll do nearly anything to save her Auntie Shi means that she was motivated and that made her even more dangerous.

"Auntie Emi, I know what you're feeling right now because I feel it too. I'm confused and at a loss for words, my mother is standing right there and is a puppet but I regained my composure. You have to gain yours too! Don't worry, Aysa's got this, no problem! Just sit back and watch!"

Emi glanced down to Saya who was smirking with an absolute confidence. Did she know something Emi didn't. With a roar. Shizune rushed forward in all of her hollowed might and thrusts her fist forward. Aysa remained calm and quickly raised her hand to stop her Auntie's fist from connecting with any part of her and she did it with such ease and quickness that it shocked the male who turned Shizune into a puppet, The Future Megumi, Ryouji, Azumi and the present era Shizune as well.  Aysa glanced at Shizune's hand and then up to her masked Auntie. There was no intent to harm her and she could sense it. It was like he Auntie was still in there somewhere trying not to hurt her but she couldn't control what she was doing.

"Auntie Shi...that punch. You are in there somewhere, I know it! Come back home to us Auntie Shi...I've missed you so much! Don't let this person control you. You are so much stronger than that!"

Saya narrowed her eyes upon being glanced at by Aysa. She nodded and with Hirenkyaku she moved to capture the male who is responsible for this while Saya kept The Future Shizune occupied. The male smirked and jumped into the air and vanished appearing a distance away from Saya who remained on his tail by appearing behind him as result. He noticed and jumped into the air to avoid being caught and captured by the half-Quincy and Shinigami. As he glanced down, Saya wasn't chasing him from below. He narrowed his eyes before glancing upward . Saya rotated her body and rammed her foot into the guys face, kicking him down onto the ground. She activated her Kisagara and began to perform hand signs, she then reached in the direction of the falling man with open hands. "Bakudo number sixty-three... Sajō Sabaku" She then clinched her hands into tight fists, calling forth two bright yellow chains that zoomed past her and quickly wrapped themselves around the falling man. Once they entangled him they tightened, binding him and rendering him motionless. She then landed on the ground near him and sighed. She deactivated her Kisagara and smiled. She then cheered in celebration!

The Future Megumi was more or less amazed at how well the two worked together and more importantly how skilled they were. No wonder they were bored with training and everything. They had advanced so far beyond what she was actually teaching them. The Tatsuya cousins, were dangerous when they worked together and apparently dangerous when they didn't. It's like they knew what the other was thinking without saying a word!

[Aysa]

Aysa had also cheered for her cousin who effortless stopped the man that's controlling Shizune right in his tracks! She did try to warn him, after all. She was just glad that she can now talk to her Auntie with no interruptions, but before she does, she has one last thing to say to the individual who was binded with Kido.

"If you know so much about us, then you should have just done the easiest thing to do! I told you you if you chose the hard way it'll be the last mistake you'll ever make!"

Now was her time to just focus on her Auntie. If by some chance that guy were to break free, she knows that Saya has her back. Maybe if she kept on talking to Shizune, she would be able to break free from whatever control this guy has. She could already sense and see that Shizune doesn't want to hurt her as there was no intent to harm behind her attacks. That means that she's in there somewhere and is trying to fight!

"Auntie Shi, you've missed a lot of things, so I'm gonna tell you! Auntie Shiori and Mama from this time period have open up a clinic in order to help the sick and injured. They did that in your memory since they couldn't help save you! Our families kept visiting your grave to talk to you. I'm sure the people from this era have missed you bunches too! So why don't you show that guy what an Onigata and Tatsuya can do!"

On the surface, it looked like what she was saying wasn't even getting to Shizune as she went on with her attacks. Even then, they still didn't have the intent to harm. All Aysa could do was to keep blocking and dodging as she would never do anything to hurt her favorite Auntie! She could only shake her head as she recalled the man revealing her status as a half Quincy. It's not that she wasn't proud of being one. She could recall the shock that everyone experienced when they found out Saya was. Best not think about that right now.

"Auntie Shi, please come back to us! We miss you!"

[Zetsumei the Destroyer]

With all of the attacks being stopped, even when hollowfied, she who was returned to life, ceased her attacks. She glanced down at Aysa who was trying her hardest to reach her, but her words were empty, they were not having the effect she hoped. She turned her back to Aysa and moved slowly toward the one who was controlling her and pulled him up to his feet. Glancing at the chains surrounding him, She tilted her head to the side before taking a hold of them and physically pulling them apart. Once freed the male laughed.

"Your words...will never reach her! She belongs to me! For centuries I've done nothing but research. I sought to destroy the Kusanagi clan for what they had done to me. I had been imprisoned for a century thanks to Azumina The Fang, Ryouji Onigata and Yuri Nakayama. The three of you...the three of you ruined everything! My research wasn't ruining anything. The Shinigami I killed was for the sake of research! It doesn't matter now because now I have perfected the art of restoring the life to the dead and she will be your demise!"

He continued to laugh as Shizune reached up and grabbed the cloak she was wearing and pulled it off and tossed it to the ground.  Tilting her head to the side slightly, she glared at Aysa who was still stern in her resolve. She wasn't afraid, she was truly determined to rescue her auntie from the man. Saya appeared beside her cousin and she too was determined and serious. Saya wanted to ask the question because she deserved to know the answer.

"How long have you had my mother under your control?"

The man ceased with his Arrogant laughter and grinned. It has been so long, the process was not easy at all. You see she wasn't always under his control. It took a great deal of punishment to completely brainwash her and to make her numb to the thoughts of not only wanting to escape but to see her family again to see her daughter, niece and her adoptive sister in Megumi. She was defiant and a fighter but in the end her mind was broken and she became an obedient servant to carry out his plans.

"Are you certain you wish to know Saya Tatsuya? The answer you seek will only seek to anger you. Yet your anger is what I want. I want you to be furious and I want you to come at me with everything you have...so that your mother can end your life. The day I resurrected her and gave her life...was the very day she died! The timing couldn't have been more perfect! She returned to life and she fought. All she could talk about was getting back to her beloved Lady Yuri, Saya, Aysane and Megumi...to her son Ryusei and to her beloved husband. It took a lot, the torture was long. She even died from a few of them but I brought her right back until her mind was broken. Now she stands as Zetsumei the Destroyer!!!!"

He began to laugh again as Shizune roared and was swallowed whole by a dark red veil of pure Reiatsu. Saya and Aysa however stood their ground. There were not going to run from him or Shizune. When the wall of Reiatsu vanished, Shizune stood their with a hole in the center of her chest...she had transformed and hollowfied again, further transforming herself into a hollow. She was nearly completely hollowfied a trait that she without question inherited from her late father who also had the ability to transform at will. With blinding speed she appeared in front of Saya and rammed her Hierro hardened knee into Saya's stomach which took her off of her feet, As she left the ground, the hollowfied Shizuzne left her feet and attempted a kick but it was blocked by Aysa by merely grabbing on to her ankle. Saya doubled over and hit the ground and was sent skidding back from the result of the knee. Ryouji had seen enough he went charging in with his monstrous scythe but he was stopped by Aysa a second time who put up her hand to keep him back. 

"Mister Uncle 'Ouji...don't! I know Auntie Shi is there...if you attack her, we may lose her and I won't let that happen!"

Aysa glanced up to her Auntie's masked face and stared into her eyes...that's when she saw it. There was a tear there. That confirmed what she already knew. You don't tear unless something hurts you...or you sneeze a lot or find something funny but..her Auntie shed a tear! Aysa was right! Saya slowly crawled to her feet but fell down on to her knees. She could barely breathe or stand. She was hit had. Emi ran to check on Saya to make sure she was okay.

"Auntie Shi...please can't you see what you are doing? Do you really want to hurt all of us who love you and have missed you every day since you were gone?"

[Aysa]

Aysa must be getting through to her Auntie. If she wasn't, there was no way she would have shed a tear! In order to cry, she had to be feeling something! That other guy can boast all he wants, but she knows her Auntie better than him and anyone else! Once she stopped Ryouji from attack once again and said her piece, the teenager turned her full attention to Shizune. If she kept talking to her more, maybe that would give her the strength to fight back and totally kick that guys butt all over the place!

"You can break free, Auntie Shi! I know you don't want to do this but that jerk over there isn't giving you a choice! I know you're in there somewhere! If you weren't, you wouldn't have shed a tear! This has got to be horrible for you. Please, fight his control and come back to us!"

She had to be ready just in case that guy over there made Shizune attack. She had seen how fast she was and even managed to knock the wind out of Saya. That already proved to her that she can be fast. Even so, she would only either continue to block, dodge, or even take a blow before she even thinks of striking at her auntie!

"If you don't break free because of us, Auntie Shi, do it for yourself! You've been waiting to see your family again, haven't you? Make that wish come true!"

[Saya Tatsuya]

With her Auntie Emi's help, Saya was once again able to stand on her own feet but her legs were still wobbly at best. She truly forgot how strong her mother was. That knee felt like she was hit in the stomach five times in a row but all at once. She coughed as she tried to get some air into her lungs but then she saw how determined Aysa was to snap her mother out of whatever was making her act this way. There was something more to it than that. Aysa's voice was reaching her but it wasn't enough. She began to play back the boasting of the male in her mind. She then came to the conclusion that without his Zanpakutou...perhaps then her mother would snap out of it. There was also the possibility that his Zanpakutou was keeping her alive as well. If she were to break the sword, her mother could very well die again. Either way she had to get that sword from him. As much as it pains her, she would much rather have her mom die again then to be a slave to some jerkface controlling her. There were days where she wanted nothing more than for her mother to live again and this was truly one of those days but she would be more than willing to do what Aysa won't and that's kill her if the need arises.

"Thank you Auntie Emi...I have an idea...I believe I know how we can stop the guy controlling my mom. His Zanpakutou....we need to break his Zanpakutou! Breaking it should release my mother from his control. I also understand that this may kill her again but I would much rather lose her than to watch her and know that she's a slave to him. Aysa will be more upset if the latter came to be true."

Saya moved toward her grandfather and grandmother before falling down onto her knees again. She was once more helped up by her Auntie before being helped over to where they were standing, both were anxious and angry that they wanted to help but Aysa wouldn't let them get near Shizune. Saya explained her plan and also the risk, destroying the sword could also kill her mother but it was a risk she had to take. Azumi and Ryouji looked at each other and then nodded, agreeing to help Saya. They didn't like it any more than Saya did but she was right. It would be the best course of action in order to free her mother. However after trying to stand up on her own, she stumbled down onto her knees for a third time. Her grandfather picked her up and carried her. She could very well have broken ribs. Shizune didn't pull her punches when she attacked Saya as hard as she did. However given how determined Aysa was...perhaps the best course of action was already taking place.

"We'll call your idea 'Plan B' right now it seems as if Shizune is listening to Aysa, lets let her continue to do what she's doing but if she attacks Aysa...we'll go through with your plan."

Saya glanced over to Aysa who continued to talk to attempt to reach through to Shizune and she wasn't attacking or moving, just staring at her. The male noticed that his personal monster was acting quite docile towards one half of the Tatsuya duo and laughed. She was so focused on saving her 'Auntie' that she was wide open. Since the new Zetsumei wouldn't attack her, He would do it on her behalf perhaps with her gone, the destroyer would return to her rampage and do what he's sought to do for centuries!

"Very well...if you won't destroy this freak of a child...then I will do it on your behalf!!"

With a flash step of his own he appeared behind Aysa with his sword raised and ready to strike...As his blade neared the teenager's back. The most extrodinary thing took place. Shizune stopped the blade from getting near Aysa. The male along with everyone else shared the shocked expression upon their faces. The growl Shizune was emitting was loud before it turned into a deafening shriek of rage and anger


(Insert Mood Music: Hollowed)


The male looked into the eyes of the very monster he created and noticed how her eyes were glowing red. The fear had set in and now the very monster whom he planned to unleash upon the past now had him as a target. Shizune pushed Aysa aside and drew her arm back before forcing it forward, quickly wrapping it around the male's neck where she began to squeeze and choke the life from him. Her mask began to crack and then it shattered as her Kisagara'd eyes grew even brighter. Her hollowification ended as she lifted the male from his feet and held him suspended in air by the grip she had on his neck.

"I won't...let you...hurt...A...Ay..."

She glanced at her Auntie upon hearing what sounded like it could be her name. She was happy that it seemed like her Auntie remembered her name but what she didn't want was for her to kill the jerk by choking him. He deserved to be put behind bars again and this time some that he could not escape from.

"Auntie Shi...don't kill him. You aren't a monster like he is!!" 

Upon hearing Aysa's voice again...Shizune reacted by looking at her. She had gotten so big but she couldn't allow him to get away from this...if he died then no one else would ever go through this again, alive or dead. She then turned her attention to this man again. "Saito...Kuragame! You will never do this to anyone ever again...Aysa, Saya...Emi. I'm glad I got to see you all again one last time..." 

Upon hearing what her Auntie had to say. Aysa's eyes widened slowly she reached for her Auntie but she wouldn't be quick enough to stop her. Shizune released the hold she had on Saito's neck before ramming her elbow into the side of his head. She gripped his sword tighter  and shattered it at the center of the blade, breaking it. The she fell backwards and hit the ground with a loud thud. She was motionless. Saya jumped from her grandfathers arms and stumbled to where her mother had fallen and knelt down beside her. She broke free with Aysa's help and broke the blade just like she planned to do originally...but at what cost. To lose her mother once was hard but a second time was to much to bare. She began to cry above her mother as she rested her head on her chest. Screaming for her to wake up and not to leave her again.

[Azumi Onigata]

Seeing her granddaughter react the way she did...was heartbreaking. It was because of her and Aysa's efforts that she was able to come back to them and acknowledge them before breaking free of his control. All to protect Aysa. She raised her hand up to her face and touched her mask forcing it to disappear and end her hollowification. To have to lose her mother twice had to be devastatingly hard on Saya. She walked forward, heading toward her granddaughter. Once Azumi was behind her. She placed both of her hands onto Saya's shoulders and pulled her away from her mother's body and pulled her into an embrace. Saya continued to cry as she tightly hugged onto her grandmother. Azumi rested her head against Saya's and sighed. It wasn't any easier for her. Her first born was died right here and according to Saya's plan this was a result that she calculated. Deep down she knew that Shizune would rather be dead than to be forced to fight her own family. She turned her attention over to Aysa who was standing there with no reaction at all. It had to be building up inside. She loved Shizune so much and to see her go again had to be rough.

She called out for the young one but received no response as she stared at her Auntie's body on the ground. She wanted to hug her badly but would she even let her. Azumi pulled Saya away from her mother's body so she wouldn't have to be near it or to look at it any more than she already has. Perhaps it was a good idea to take the girls to see Shiori. While keeping her embrace on Saya, she glanced to her husband.

"Ryouji I will take the girls to see Shiori, with all of what happened I'm sure she's awake and raising a fuss and causing problems for everyone at the squad four headquarters. I'm certain of it. Saya and Aysa shouldn't be around this right now. Shizune...bring your niece. Ami and Yuri can assist you with what must be done. Bring Ami and the others with you once you've finished and meet us there. Shiori is going to want to see you most of all."

With a little force she managed to bring Saya into the house so that Azumi and everyone can go visit Shiori who unfortunately took a backseat to the craziness they've just witnessed. Go figure anytime something good ever happens like Saya and Aysa coming to visit something bad happens nearly immediately after. Ten whole years of peace and a special visit ruined all of that for them. It didn't matter. Despite her motherly instincts kicking in and wanting to embrace Aysa, it wouldn't do any good. She lost her favorite person in the world twice now as did Saya, Shizune shook her head. Taking Aysa with them wouldn't do any good. Shiori being her second favorite Aunt and all wouldn't approve of Aysa not being happy when they were to see each other.

"Aysa will stay. I'm sure she wants to help prepare the body and say goodbye."

Azumi nodded and with some coaxing convinced Saya to come with her to visit Shiori. The two went inside followed by everyone else who was to visit which was Yuriko and Hina. Leaving Ryouji, Yuri and Aysa behind. Azumi packed some of Shiori's favorite things, which mainly consisted of Juice boxes and made way for the hospital. All she could think of at this moment was how Saya and Aysa were taking this and her heart was with both of them. She's never had to personally witness any of her family dying in front of her eyes but she could imagine that it was painful and something awful to have to replay it in your mind over and over. In time she knew the girls would bounce back and become their normal selves again, it would just take a great deal of time before they do.

[Aysa]

Aysa had approach her auntie who was still on the ground after the majority of everyone else had left. She then sat down on her knees and glanced down. She wasn't able to stop her from breaking Saito's Zanpakuto. Was it really better this way? It had to be if Shizune did what she did. It was really hurting her to fight herself and Saya so she had to do what she did. Aysa forgot that Ryouji and her grandmother were there and she had begin to sniffle which eventually lead to her crying. Losing her once was bad enough but to lose her like this... It was just cruel! She then hugged onto her Auntie and just sobbed.

Yuri, who was watching her granddaughter cry, was unable to console her. There wasn't anything she could say that would ease her pain. Still doesn't mean she doesn't feel for her. She understands very well what it's like to lose people she loves. She had to at least try to get Aysa away from the body. There wasn't a need to postone anything. So... Why couldn't she make herself take a step forward to Aysa? Unbeknownst to anyone, Shizune was beginning to stir from her 'slumber' from hearing her neice cry. That's when her hand slowly reached up to touch Aysa's face and slowly wipe away the tears.

"It's okay, Aysa... I'm still here."

Aysa couldn't believe her ears. She looked down right away to see Shizune staring at her with a weak smile. This caused the teenager to hug onto her Auntie tightly while sobbing once more, but this time, out of happiness and not sorrow. Shizune slowly patted her on the back and as they stood up, Aysa was helping her stand. Safe to say her present company was shocked. Bewildered, even. Yuri couldn't help but to smile and cover her eyes for a moment. Despite her apperances and being such a serious person, she couldn't help but to shed a tear or two. She couldn't help it! She was happy for everyone that this would affect!

"Let's head to the Fourth Division. I think there would be some people there who would be very happy to see you, Auntie Shi!"

[Future Shizune]

It hasn't even been quite five minutes and she was already wanting her to go somewhere and see someone. Truth be told, she honestly didn't want to go she was forced to do such a horrible thing to her younger sister. It would be the best thing for her to go and apologize but she still felt so horrible. There was still a few things she had to do here before going. First things first, she wanted to give Lady Yuri the biggest hug on earth and apologize for not telling her about her illness. Secondly she wanted to give her father a big hug too! Then there was the third and probably the most imiportant thing. Get out of those awful clothes and take a bath because she needs one. So she went with part one of her three step plan, she walked over to her mentor and looked at her. Her father wasn't kidding when she said that she would be short for forever. Without question or warning she wrapped her arms around Lady Yuri and hugged her as tightly as she could...even if it did hurt her, she didn't care, she was just happy to see her again.

"Lady Yuri, I am sorry that I didn't tell you about my illness sooner. I have caused you a great deal of trouble in my lifetime and I want to apologize for it and hug you as hard as I can!"

She squeezed Lady Yuri even tighter and even lifted her off of the ground and spun around before putting her back down. When she noticed that she shed a little tear. This came as a shock because she's never seen her shed a tear or anything that wasn't a little blood or something. Quite frankly she wasn't even sure if she's seen Lady Yuri bleed or not. She was always so serious. She then slowly stumbled over to her father and stood in front of him. He was still the giant. Clearly she got her height from him considering that her mother was a tad on the short side. Before she could go to hug him, she was stopped by his hand going up in front of her.

"Before you hug me and crush me Shizune, I have to remind you that your daughter and niece have both tackled me pretty hard under the guise of hugs. I'm sore enough as is and I'm not as young as I use to be so please be care...FULLL!"

Shizune ignored pretty much everything he said and wrapped her arms around him as tightly as she could. She was happy to see him again too. She wished it was under better circumstances but it wasn't as if she had much of a choice, being that man's slave and all. She did her best to resist his commands but it wasn't until Aysa was in danger did she get a grip on herself and break free. She released him from the hug and sighed. she actually squeezed him so hard that she felt lightheaded.

"I hope you can forgive me dad...I didn't want to fight you..."

Ryouji placed his hand on her shoulder to keep her from speaking further on the matter. He knew that she wouldn't want to if she could help it but the situation made it so that she didn't have much of a choice. He nodded in response. In order to keep the mood from being too dramatic for him. He folded his arms across his chest and sighed.

"How long were you planning on laying there like that? You certainly have your mother's dramatic flare."

Upon hearing what he said, she rubbed the back of her head and laughed a tad bit nervously. He was kidding of course, that was clearly a subject change to keep himself from being seeing as emotional like his pupil and her mentor. Ryouji turned to Yuri and leaned over and narrowed his eyes and smirked. It was like he was making fun of her...which in actuality he was for being such a hard ass all the time but she did learn it from him sort of. "You may appear serious to Saya and Aysa but you're still a softie!"

Yuri glared at him before kicking him in the shin. She folded her arms and looked the other way, keeping up with her serious demeanor. Ryouji rubbed his shin before standing up and clearing his throat in order to pretend that it didn't hurt like it did. Shizune turned to her niece and knelt down in front of her. She was so much bigger now and not the little cutie that could lay on her chest.

"Aysane?"

Aysa glanced down at her Auntie upon hearing her full name which was odd because no one ever called her that. Shizune pulled her into another tight, firm embrace and didn't let her go. She was so grateful at this second opportunity to be with her family again. Even though it didn't start out as such. She had gone through so much, years of torture and mental duress. Seeing her smile and happy made it all worth it. She's missed her and Saya more than anything and it tore her apart to sadden them the way she had.

"I love you so much and I promise I'll do my best to never ever put you through something like this ever again."