Disclaimer insert here: I don't own or have ever owned Bleach or High School DxD. Please buy their stuff so they don't go home poor and destitute. Thanks.

All characters belong to their rightful owners, except any OC monsters I make up. As usual an M rating is for future violence, dismemberments, gore, language, very foul language, and of course lemons will be in, but don't expect a ton of them. Again enjoy your time here.

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Response to Reviews Corner 3: Okay so I know I said I would write up to Chapter 20 for Destiny's Path before starting anything new for WTMW and Naberius Heir. Well unfortunately I have lost my inspiration for Destiny's Path at the moment and as such it will be on hold until June. I hope that by the time I get back to it, I'll have found my way again. To give you a hint at how bad it was, I sat for three days staring at the same opening paragraph and nothing was coming. So instead of keeping you wondering why I disappeared again, I decided to work on Naberius for the time being as well as a chapter or two for WTMW. I'm have stated before I'd finish my stories and short of death I intend to keep my word, so with out much more rambling here is your next chapter after responses.

KAoSVIIMura .no .Baka: Sorry, can't help the update pace because I do work 40 plus hours a week. Sometimes I do get a good day or two in but for the most part I try and write for at least an hour or two a day. And lately inspiration has been waning, but I won't keep you guys in the dark forever, just not as timely as before.

Revinator: Ichigo will get his old powers back plus something special.

For a majority of the reviews I'll try and answer without giving too much away. No the amnesia won't last long. No harem, sorry I stated I'm going against the tide with this one. Again that's what the little hentai is for. No he isn't going to be part of the peerage. No he won't be 'nerf' for too long. Not going to be transcendent either, hell he is powerful enough. I hope this answers your questions but feel free to PM me anything and I'll try and answer without giving anything away.

As always, any mistakes found please PM so I can fix them ASAP. A crappily written story sucks for all of us.

Again big thanks to Okami Princess for her insight and plot lines. This is as much her story as mine. Don't forget to send her PM as well for the great job she is doing. It would mean alot to me. Liam

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Beta and co-creator: Okami Princess

Special thanks to Kiwifan7 and Okami for reading my chapter as I was writing it and for giving me great advice as always.

Also please read AN for any important news or information. Now I'm gonna get outta of your way. Enjoy.

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"Speech"

'Thoughts'

'Memories'

"Tensa Zangetsu"

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"All he kept saying was…was Yoruichi."

Harumi

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Brown eyes glance down at his phone and a small sigh escapes his body. Looking back up the stairs, he decides she needs a helping hand.

"Koneko you don't want to be late for your last day of middle school do you?" He gives a loud shout up the stairs.

Silence greets his announcement. Pinching his nose, he quietly reflects upon the past few months of his stay with his gracious hosts. Grimacing as he thinks about his occasional black-outs he is still suffering, not as frequent as the early days, but still one every other week or so was still causing him some concern. His uncle and Sirzech however maintained he was healing and the lengthening time scale between his bouts proved that he was improving. What he didn't tell them though was that the last time he blacked-out his vision wasn't about the small brown-haired girl or the new vision of the small black-haired girl, but was that of a young man. The young man had only frowned as he stood and stared back at Ichigo during the vision.

Ichigo also didn't tell his guardian that the man was the exact copy of himself but pure white for the most part; the only difference was his eyes. At first they were demon looking with black sclera and golden-yellow irises but they shifted to black surrounding red orbs as the face grew frustrated for some reason. It wasn't that he feared the person but it was the sensation that he was missing something very important. As the vision faded, he could have sworn the face twisted into something akin to agony just as he slipped back into consciousness.

Thinking about his black-outs made him shift his thoughts to the three ladies of the house. Rias, Akeno and Koneko were the one's who dealt with the fallout from his episodes each time. Rias though took to his care with a measure of seriousness that made him question whether or not he should continue staying with them. He never wanted to be a burden, and that's what he feels like every time he wakes up afterwards. The one time he spoke out loud about moving out, he was rebuked by an angry Venelana stating that he was their responsibility and that any notion of him moving out was out of the question. The glare the four women gave him at dinner that night made any more conversations about his idea a non-starter.

As he thought about his crimson roommate, now that she was sharing his room with him, had the young man wondering exactly what she really thought about their arrangement. He had to admit to himself, he was sleeping better and knowing that he was waking up with her made him feel…special. Of course the hugging pillow thing was okay by him but it was her sleeping nude with him that had still given him discomfort at first but after her mother woke them up that one Saturday with nary a word, he stopped bring it up. If her mother was fine with it, who was he to argue anymore. The only time she did get mad about it was when Akeno tried to slip in.

Akeno, now she was the bane of his male existence, the succubus, who did every and anything to get a rise out of him and Rias. It seemed that anytime he was involved with doing something with or for Rias, the sadist would take great pleasure in teasing her best-friend with never-ending jabs until the crimson rage went ballistic. He almost felt bad about whatever punishments Akeno was suffering in private, but when he got down to it, she deserved every ounce of misery Rias dealt her. But then again, Akeno was always smiling afterwards, a slight chill ran down his spine just thinking about the seductive glaze over her eyes. At least he had Koneko to balance the older two out.

Quiet and polite, the little white-haired girl sometimes reminded him of a robot in her emotions. While she was more animated with her feelings lately, he just had a feeling she was hiding a deep hurt. Whatever it was, she wouldn't speak of it nor would Rias. It was a private matter and all Rias said it stemmed from her family when she was a child. Not wanting to push his little walking partner, he always made sure he was around for her when she needed anything, even the occasional just-made-it-time-before-closing trip to the shouten for candy. Ichigo also knew not to keep it from her or least he earn a shot to his shins or feet when he tried. Smiling he knew who ever pissed her off would pay dearly, her hits were not weak at all. Speaking of Koneko, he glanced at his phone again and began to sweat in worry.

Shaking his head to focus back on his current task once again, he began to suck in his breath to renew his announcement when the sounds of two small feet thumping down the stairs made him smile. But as he looks at the white-haired girl, he sees a look of displeasure on her face causing his smile to slip.

"Oniisan I heard you the first time but I wasn't done putting my uniform on. Did you want me to go without it so I could maybe perhaps fulfill your hidden lolicon fetish?"

"I swear to god, if Akeno gives you the facts-of-life again, I'm going to strangle her. And no dammit for the last time I AM NOT A LOLICON! Damn sadist is what she is. Always giving people the wrong idea about me."

Walking by him, she gives him her best 'I don't believe you' look, before she sits at the genkan and puts on her shoes. "Come on oniisan. I don't want to be late for my last day with dragon lady."

Ichigo sits next to her pulling his own shoes on before he stands and gives Koneko his hand. After pulling up the younger girl, he grabs his and her bags and proceeds out the door with her just behind him. Their usual morning walk takes them through the park passing by the stone fountain where Ichigo had started tossing ten yen pieces in shortly after one of his 'episodes'. Koneko smiles as she watches him drop the coin and offers a small wish for his memories to return as well.

After passing through the park, they make their way up the street leading to Koneko's school and she feels his hand tense as they make their last trip to the front gate of her school. She sighs internally as she too has had to put up with the grown women who suddenly found any reason to stay by the front gate longer than normal. When Rias walked with them one day, she had a near meltdown after hearing several women admit among themselves that the eye candy was worth the extra time waiting. As in Ichigo. Sighing he knows that he has to endure it for only one more day more and then he would never have to come back here again. Next year he and Koneko would be walking to school with Rias and Akeno and those two weren't ones to put up with anyone's silly nonsense.

"Ah Shiba-kun, Tōjō-chan I'm happy to see you made it for the last day on time." A fake smile adorns the dragon lady, Hikō-sensei.

"Yeah, I'll be glad when Koneko is in high school with me next year. It'll be a shorter walk and with less 'stress' involved." Ichigo replies with his own smirk.

"Humph. I don't know how any of your other sensei put up with you Shiba-kun. Your complete lack of respect for your elders is troubling to say the least."

"Well thankfully I'll be out of your hair then Hikō-sensei and I'll trouble you no more with my lack of respect. But I should point out that respect is earned not expected but then again you and I did get off on the wrong foot didn't we?"

The woman gives him a glare before she turns away and speaks to the young woman still standing next to her older brother figure. "Come Tōjō-chan, you don't wish to be late, do you?"

"I will see you after school Koneko. Have a good last day okay."

"I will oniisan. Don't forget we have a stop to make as well."

Watching as she walks through the gate, he waits until she disappears into the building before he turns to see he has to walk through the gauntlet one last time. This time it seems that every mother stayed behind longer than needed. He could feel the hungry gazes eyeing his muscular frame. Closing his eyes, he silently prays that the whispered comments aren't as brazen as they have been on previous occasions.

"Ichigo, you forgot your bento! Again!" The voice of a goddess breaks him out of his dread instantly as his crimson-haired savior walks up to him with her sadist of a best friend throwing daggers at the ensemble gathering of suddenly disappointed mothers.

Rubbing the back of head, he gives Rias his best sheepish look. "Sorry, we were kinda rushing today and I couldn't find it in time. I wanted to avoid Hikō-sensei, but we didn't have luck on our side."

Himejima watches as the crowd quickly dissipates before she gives him a smile. "We figured you'd be hounded once again, so I 'found' your bento. Strange where it was, but then again it did give us an excuse to show up and save your cute little self."

'Five, four, three, two and …'

"AKENO HIMEJIMA YOU SAID HE FORGOT IT!"

"Fufufu Buchou I thought he did, my mistake if I failed to mention that I moved it on him."

Ichigo and Rias both glare at the black-haired mistress of pain. Ichigo then quickly grabs them in either arm and begins to drag them away from the shocked looks on a few of the lingering women.

"You two are going to be the death of me yet. Now let's go before dragon lady finds me still hanging around her school."

"Ara, ara Ichigo, you still at odds with Koneko-chan's sensei?"

"Yeah, no thanks to you Akeno. Because of you, she and most of these mothers think I had a thing for older women. I swear ever since that day, they circle me like a pack of wolves, hungry for even one moment of weakness."

Rias develops a tick over one eye, but seeing how Ichigo purposely keeps them separated the Gremory heir knows she has to wait until either lunch or gym to exact a little punishment on her Queen. However she tampers her anger at the fact as to where she has nestled his arm. Smiling she wonders when he stopped being the shy young man that showed her great respect, to the young man who now seems to accept anything she did when it came to them being close. Close but not in any romantic sense yet.

'Soon I hope to change that.' She smiles sadly as she walks next to the human, who if unknowingly, owns her affections.

"Rias. Rias?" She looks to see Ichigo looking at her with squinted eyes.

"Ah sorry Ichigo. What did you say?"

"I was telling Akeno to stop worrying about me when you guys go away with your family. Uncle Amyntas and I are going to Kyoto, Singapore and then Vietnam when you all are gone."

Rias gives a pout but there is little she and her family can do. She and her entire peerage were required to attend a few of the social events for the young Devils who were about to debut or even take part in their first Rating games. She still had a year or two before she would be able to take part in her first Rating game, but just the thought of him brought a shudder to her. Her so-called fiancée already had his first victory in the Rating games and more importantly had used all his pieces wisely. He had a full set of fifteen in his peerage.

'If our marriage comes down to a Rating's game, I don't think I can win as we are now.'

"I'm glad to see you and your uncle making an effort to spend time together Ichigo. I just wish we didn't have to leave for three weeks but when we do get home, I'll make it up to you. Promise." Rias says before leaning her head against his arm, keeping her troubled thoughts to herself.

Akeno smiles from under her hair as she walks with Ichigo's arm firmly planted in between her own valley. Between knowing she and her friend would have a spat later on; and the fact that she could feel the heavily muscled limb between her breasts, gave the sadist an unseen shiver down her spine that ended with a tingling sensation just shy of her...

"You know Ichigo; I could always come with you. I'm sure Buchou could excuse me so I could take care of you." The Queen says to throw some much-needed fuel on the fire.

As expected the moment the two got within sight of the school, Rias grabs her best-friend and gives him his usual morning orders.

"Ichigo, meet us in homeroom after you get your indoor shoes. Me and Akeno have something to discuss in 'private' again. Don't be late and when you see Yuuto, make sure he has his bags ready for us to take home after school." However unlike any other day, she does something she has never done before.

He stares at her as she and Akeno, who has her own look of disbelief in her eyes, walk away. He gingerly touches his cheek where the Number One school idol just kissed him in full public view of every student standing outside. Turning he sees an equally shocked Yuuto, pointing an accusatory finger at him.

"Who are you, and what have you done to Ichigo-senpai?" It is all the blonde haired boy can ask.

Ignoring his only guy friend, he scans the many faces of students that just saw the kiss.

'oh, fuck me!' He groans internally.

XXXX

Rias is fuming as she drags her Queen through the hallways until she gets her alone in one of the girl's restrooms. Turning to put her friend through hell, she pauses as she looks at her best friend's face. Tilting her head in confusion, she snaps her fingers to wake the stupefied Akeno to her senses.

"Akeno. Akeno what's wrong with you? Hey are you even listening to me!?"

"Bu…Buchou…you…you kissed Ichigo. On his cheek…in front of everyone." The young woman stutters out.

Rias shrugs.

"Buchou?"

"I'm not ashamed of what I did Akeno and I'm sure it won't be the last time either. Now that's settled; let's get a few things straight."

Akeno's eyes grow wide when a barrier seals the two away from prying eyes.

'Well that was unexpected.' Is the last thing Akeno thinks before the tirade begins.

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Ichigo is trying his best to ignore a classroom filled with staring faces, even Souna and Tsubaki are watching him with just a small amount of amusement on their faces. He just sits there though replaying the kiss in his head over and over.

'Does she have feelings for me? I know I'm her pillow but we have never done anything beyond friendship. So why did she kiss me like that? What are her parents going to do if they find out? What's her fiancée going to do if he finds out? I'm so screwed Geta-Boshi.'

His head hits the desk with a dull thump as he blacks-out at the sudden image of a blonde-haired, grey-eyed man flying at him with a drawn katana.

Sōna flies out of her desk and rushes to the orange head; she carefully lifts his face to see his wide-open eyes staring blankly ahead. She places him back on the desk before she starts barking out orders to her fellow students.

"Tsubaki find Rias and Akeno! Yumi go get the nurse, tell her Ichigo-kun had another relapse! Someone go to class 1-A and find Yuuto Kiba, we'll need his help if we have to move him to the infirmary! Now move it people!" She turns back and kneels down along side the young man, keeping her eyes on his breathing and his eyes to make sure he isn't suffering from something else other than a sudden memory recollection.

'Hang in there Ichigo; just hang on until Rias gets here.' Sōna worriedly glances at his glazed over eyes.

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Brown orbs stare across the divide once again at the white version of himself. He can see the other being is talking but he hears nothing. He shouts back but again he can't make the other him hear him either. Growing frustrated he bangs his hands against the invisible wall that keeps him from finding out exactly who the person living in his dreams is. More frustration seems visible on his reverse self as well as he runs his hands along the great divide between them. Ichigo watches as the white version once again throws his hands in the air and walks away before vanishing slowly into the glowing distance.

"Who are you!?" Ichigo screams one more time before he sees the familiar tunnel indicating his departure for the waking world. 'Why do I have to find out your name?'

He keeps still as he hears the worried voice around him speaking, again.

"Gremory-san, when was the last time he had a memory cause him to lose consciousness?" He hears the nurse ask.

Rias's answers back with obvious strain again. "He's been fine the last month. He does sometimes talk in his sleep but never anything coherent though."

"You are there when he talks in his sleep Rias? My, my that is newsworthy." Ichigo internally groans hearing the future class president speaking.

"He sleeps on the couch a lot after school you ninny. Ask…well ask Koneko and she'll tell you."

"Ara, ara Buchou that's…"

"Say anything Akeno and you and I will have words after school."

He hears soft giggles emanate from a few different sources. A lone harrumph answers them in kind.

"Gremory-san, I can at least say he is resting well. Well enough in fact that he has been awake for the last few minutes even. Am I correct Ichigo-kun?" The sweet voice of betrayal asks him.

Cracking one eye open to see the smiling nurse watching him and the narrowed eyes of his roommates make him cringe inside that once again he will be at her mercy for at least three days before his uncle comes and rescues him.

"Thanks a lot Umagi-sensei."

The smile grows wider as she stands up and leans over him. Gently prying his right eyelid back, he knows not to react to the examination. Last time she pinched his cheek when he tried to fight her off. The bruise lasted a few hours before healing. After checking both eyes she gives up her place for Rias and Akeno to sit on either side of him before she asks him the question he dreads.

"Ichigo-kun what did you see this time?"

Shaking his head, he denies anything this time. "Nothing that you haven't heard before Umagi-sensei. Just the brown-haired girl again."

Rias and Akeno tense at the obvious lie but neither will say anything until they are alone. Even the nurse knows he is lying but she doesn't push it this time.

"Then I suggest you rest for the rest of the day Ichigo-kun. I know you finished your exams earlier in the week, so until the end of the day, you will not move from that bed. Gremory-san, Himejima-san if you don't mind will you both keep my patient here for me?"

"Of course Umagi-sensei. And thank you again for checking on him. We will be sure to send your findings to our own sensei as well for future reference next year."

"Very well. Rest now Ichigo-kun and when I get back I'll check you one last time before I release you. Until then you are not to move from here." Turning she walks out of the room with the Sōna and Tsubaki in tow.

Closing his eyes, he waits for it.

"Ichigo I won't ask why you lied but you did see something different this time. It hasn't been this bad since the last time something new showed itself to you in your visions. Whatever it was, we will wait until you feel the need to tell us." Rias says as she holds his hand.

Akeno adds her own opinion as well. "Ichigo we will always be here for you."

"I know Rias, Akeno but this time it was different. I didn't want to say it front of them because I think I'm losing it."

"Ichigo what did you see this time?" The crimson bijou asks.

Shaking his head he begins to tell them everything this time, including the white version of himself in a strange world of sideways buildings. He then gets to his latest vision of the crazy man attacking him with a katana.

"The thing is I heard him just before I complete passed out. He said there is nothing, but fear reflected in your sword. When you dodge, you're afraid of getting killed. When you attack, you're afraid of killing someone. Even when you try to protect someone, you're afraid of letting them die. Yes, your sword speaks to me only of absurd fear. What's necessary in a fight isn't fear. Nothing can be born of that. When you dodge, 'I won't let them cut me'. If you protect someone, 'I won't let them die'. If you attack, 'I will kill them'. Well, can't you see the resolve to kill you in my sword? I mean who says crazy shit like that?"

The two women could only stare at him with unease when he recounts his last two visions. Rias gives Akeno a look and soon the Queen gets up from the bed with an excuse to use the restroom. Ichigo watches her with a sullen look, knowing she is going to call his uncle and Sirzech's again.

"I'm sorry for not telling you Rias, even after I promised you back then. It's…it's just that these last two seem too real to me, so much more than a dream. I think they really happened to me. I can't explain why, but I do."

She lies down next to him and pulls his head under hers before she speaks to him. "Ichigo, I don't know where to begin with you about this. Yes I'm disappointed with you but I understand your reluctance after describing what you saw. Mother has to be informed though in case there was something in your past that your uncle feels is necessary for you and us to know. I am tempted not to leave you alone at all now because of this."

Sighing he lifts his head to look at her. "You have to go Rias. Your parents said this was important for you as well as for them. Don't worry too much okay. I'll have Uncle Amyntas with me anyways and I'm sure he will keep a closer eye on me now because of this. I want you to have fun for at least a few weeks without having to worry about me. I'll be fine."

She looks down into his brown eyes and sees the distance in them. "Ichigo you are a terrible liar. Your not leaving my sight until your uncle collects you for your trip. As of now you are not allowed to leave my side at all."

His objections come in the form of laughter as he thinks of one thing she won't insist upon being with him when he does. The fool even voices that exception.

"You…you…you…arrgghhh!" She shouts out much to his amusement.

"Got you though Rias. Now let me get a nap in before the final bell rings." Soon his eyes close and his breathing turn into a steady and deep pattern while he rests his head in the crook of her neck.

Running her hands through his locks, she watches him as he sleeps peacefully. "I still don't want to leave you Ichigo."

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Venelana and Yoruichi are sitting in a quiet alcove of the European restaurant on the outskirts of Fukushima. The waiters made sure not to linger too long after the last nasty glare sent at them from the former Onmitsukidō commander. Her irritation heightened by the brash young men trying to flirt with her unsuccessfully at least twice in the last twenty minutes. The Lady of the Gremory Clan wasn't far behind in her distaste for the humans' behavior.

"Make sure we are not disturbed again." Venelana directs her irritation at the proprietor of the restaurant. "If it does happen one more time, I will see to it you and your establishment suffer for the actions of your staff. Do you understand Endo-san?"

"Yes! My apologizes Gremory-sama! I will see to your privacy and I will reprimand the young men who insulted your honor! Please give me a few moments and I will serve you personally!"

The were-cat watches with narrowed eyes as the balding man scrambles out of the alcove and begins to shout at the three offenders loudly. A few yells later are soon followed by doors slamming and feet shuffling quickly away from the two women. Yoruichi searches their surroundings and once she is satisfied she nods to her new friend. Blue-green eyes scan the other woman across the table from her before she weaves a spell and seals them in dome to keep anymore unwanted guests from eavesdropping on them.

Venelana begins the conversation without any preamble. "He has suffered two more black-outs Yoruichi but this time they were very different from before. I think you should hear the details and form your own opinions about what is happening with him."

The Shihōin listens intently as the other woman describes the conversation she had with both her daughter and her daughter's best friend. Venelana's description of both Ichigo's hollow and the training he received with Kisuke makes Yoruichi realize exactly what her best friends have done and hid from her. Her reiatsu begins to leak dangerously as she thinks of the different ways she is going to help in killing the two of them. But then her thoughts shift to the positive side of these new developments. They never erased his memories, just hid his old life from him and that someday he might be able to get it back. But then she remembers exactly why he was put in this position in the first place, his power made people fear him.

"Venelana, I can't say for certain if this is good news or bad."

"Why is that Yoruichi? Is there something I should be made aware of?"

"I'm gonna be honest, I don't know what Kisuke saw that day. He won't speak of it but I think Isshin might know but he ain't talking either. All I know is that it must have something to do with his uncle and his relationship with Masaki-san and her family."

Venelana sighs as she thinks about the Naberius Clan and the horrible events of that day the Clan was for all intents and purposes wiped out. Amyntas was the lone survivor of the ambush orchestrated by members of the Old Maou faction for his refusal to support them in the Civil War. His wife Cornelia had been the aunt of the current Clan head of the Sitri, beautiful and intelligent. She could remember the woman as if it was yesterday, from her long black hair to her deep blue eyes. She was also a prodigy with the violin, when she had played at the Sitri parties years ago, the room would listen with breathless rapture until she finished her performance, and then the room would erupt into thunderous applause.

They only had one son named Vincent, who was very much like his father in appearance, from his strawberry blonde hair to his dark hazel eyes. However Vincent seemed to have inherited his mother's personality. All scowls and stubborn determination, yet both had an artistic bent, and a rarely seen outside of family, gentle side to them. Although instead of the musical arts like his mother, Vincent was a lover of the literary arts, and he was the fondest of Shakespeare's works in particular.

He was also the only Naberius to break his father's declaration of neutrality during the Civil War, when he had sided with her son's alliance and that had thus sealed his fate. His wife was the anomaly though, a devil born through reincarnation from the Evil Pieces, Kiku, his queen. Her background was shrouded in mystery though. Vincent never said where she had come from or the circumstances surrounding the reasons why she became a devil. She possessed an abnormally high amount of magical energy; more than any normal newborn queen piece devil should be capable of.

The most striking features about Kiku was her appearance though, she stood out with her bright orange hair and chocolate brown eyes.

"Yoruichi, did you know anything about Masaki's parents by any chance?" The Gremory devil asks suddenly.

Yoruichi shakes her head. "No Venelana, I never met them. All I knew is that they had passed away years before when Masaki was about a year old. Ryūken never spoke about them ever nor did Isshin for that matter. Why do you ask?"

Venelana licks her lips nervously before she asks her next question. "You don't happen to have a photo of Masaki do you?"

Yoruichi digs into her shirt before she pulls out a much worn photo. Handing it over to her dinner companion, she has a sad smile on her face. "This was taken a week before she was killed by a hollow. It was the last picture of Ichigo smiling for years to come."

Venelana hands shake as she looks at the picture. Staring back at her is a smiling woman who couldn't be anything but the daughter of Vincent and Kiku Naberius. The face, the hair, her eyes, even the smile was the same as Vincent's wife.

"Kurosaki was Masaki's family name wasn't it Yoruichi?"

Yoruichi nods her head again. "Yes, Isshin took it after he married her when he lost his shinigami abilities saving her life."

"Lost his shinigami powers?"

Yoruichi eyes take a distant look as she remembers the year she met both Masaki and Isshin for the first time.

"It's quite a story Venelana. Do you want to hear how Ichigo's parents met?"

Venelana smiles as she says yes.

"Well you should first know that Isshin was the Captain of Squad Ten of the Gotei Thirteen and a member of the then Fifth Noble Clan, the Shiba."

Venelana sits listening to every word her new shinigami conspirator says about the night Isshin and Masaki met. From Isshin fighting and nearly dying fighting a powerful Vasto Lorde hollow to Masaki stepping in and destroying it with a single shot to the head with an arrow. How in the attack, Masaki had been bitten and thus infected with a hollow based pathogen created by the traitor Aizen to infect spiritually based beings for his experiments. How when Isshin had come back to visit the young woman, he found Ryūken running towards Karakura with his cousin and fiancée in his arms, only for the former Quincy to run into both Isshin and Kisuke.

Venelana's thoughts are in shock as she listens to the story. She began to put things in prospective as she comes to the sudden realization why her friend, the Guardian of the Damned, had such a vested interest in the human boy. The Kurosaki's never served the Naberius clan at all, Ichigo Kurosaki was his great-grandson and Masaki was his granddaughter.

"Those son-of-bitches!" Venelana says.

The Shihōin Princess pauses in her story. "Venelana what's wrong?"

"They knew. They all knew. My son, my husband, Kisuke and your friend Isshin. They all know who Ichigo really is Yoruichi."

Venelana's blue-green eyes narrow in anger and hurt as she speaks her conclusion. "Yoruichi, the picture you showed me of Masaki. She is possibly the granddaughter of the Naberius Clan head and the daughter of his only son. Ichigo might not be just a Vizard and of one of the Quincy bloodlines; he is possibly the next heir of the Naberius Clan. He is possibly a half devil, a member of the Seventy Two Pillars nobility."

"What!? That's not possible! Ichigo is a Vizard! He never…" Yoruichi goes quiet then.

"Yoruichi what?" Venelana asks with worry at the sudden pause.

Licking her lips two golden-cat eyes stare back across the table. "I always wondered how Ichigo got his zanpakutō. He said he pulled it out of his soul during the Shattered Shaft trial, but that shouldn't be possible. All zanpakutō start as an Asauchi, a blank katana. But Zangetsu was always there with Ichigo in its shikai release. Then that would mean that his zanpakutō is really a Quincy spirit weapon, not a real shinigami zanpakutō. Oh my! That means…means…"

"What Yoruichi? What are you trying to say!?"

Swallowing the moisture in her mouth, the former head of the Onmitsukidō looks at her friend.

"It means that Ichigo has never been truly tapping into his true potential. He has been hampered by Masaki's Quincy bloodline."

XXXX

The walk to pickup Koneko was pretty much a free-for-all between Rias and Akeno. Not once have the two friends stopped talking about who was going to take care of the now amused Ichigo as he walks between the two beauties, his body keeping the two from making their little argument into something physical.

When Rias finally shook him awake from his dreamless nap, he was greeted to a room full of smirking women and one embarrassed looking Yuuto. Rias was the only one not smirking; instead her face was a well contained volcano ready to erupt. When he asked what was going on, Rias answered for the group.

"If they know what is good for them, they'll keep quiet." Her voice spoke with finality.

Quirking an eyebrow at the young man in the group, he could see the blush develop on his friend as he shook his head. "I'd rather not repeat what was spoken Ichigo. I suffered enough blood loss for one day."

He didn't push Yuuto knowing whatever was said had to be bad for the younger man to suffer such a serious blush just from thinking about it. Ichigo shudders himself thinking about some of the conversations he had been forced to listen to between Rias and Akeno. Over time he gotten so used to them, it no longer bothered him that they could be so open about their feeling or thoughts. Whoever did marry either one of the two women hanging off his arms were in for a very rude awakening, followed by a pleasant surprise as well.

But thinking about marriage brought his thoughts to Rias, more so after the kiss this morning from her. It was something he had to figure out before she left, to know if she really meant anything by that kiss or was it just a kiss. Sighing to himself, he wished he had someone he could talk to about all of this, but if he did, he couldn't remember them. Looking up, he could see Koneko standing outside of the gates waiting for them to walk her home. She was smiling at them as they walk up to her.

"Hello oniisan, Rias-san, Akeno-san." Koneko says as she greets her older friends.

"Koneko-chan how do you feel now that you will be going to Kuoh next semester?" Rias asks as she leaves Ichigo's side.

"I am looking forward to it very much." She glances back at the only teacher standing outside still. Hikō-sensei is glaring at the only male in the group. "I don't think Ichigo's presence would be tolerated for much longer."

Ichigo snorts as he gives a mock salute to the bristling woman. Akeno places her hand over her mouth to keep her giggles suppressed as she too waves to the woman.

"It's still your fault you know Akeno. Ever since you asked if I thought older women like her looked hot, I've been ganged up every morning by single mothers and married ones too asking if I could 'help' them."

Rias sends her own glare at Akeno as she remembers that day all to well. Unfortunately she couldn't walk to school with Ichigo and Koneko everyday to help keep them at bay but the days she did, she made sure they knew he was off-limits. But now that was in the past as Koneko was no longer a student of the middle school, she was now the last of her current peerage to enter the safety of Kuoh Academy. She smiles knowing that Ichigo would no longer be on his own now that they would all be walking to school together.

Koneko slides over to Ichigo and hands him her bag before she proceeds to grab his free hand. The older two women watch as the young neko begins to drag her oniisan in the direction of the shouten. Last stop before home was for her candy.

XXXX

Sirzech sat staring at his mother and the other woman in awe. Less than an hour ago, the two women showed up at his office shortly before he was supposed to leave for the day. After the introductions, he was grilled for a lengthy amount of time by his mother and the woman he now knows as Yoruichi Shihōin. She was Ichigo's sensei and from how she acted, there was something else going on with the shinigami woman.

'Shinigami, I thought they no longer bothered with the other realms. At least directly, and the ones they have mostly interacted with in the past were the Japanese gods, mostly Tsukuyomi, who was rumored to be the divine ancestor of the royal family of the Soul Society, like how the living Imperial family of Japan was rumored to be the mortal descendants of Tsukuyomi's sister and the Japanese Shinto sun goddess, Amaterasu; and the Yōkai Faction.'

Pinching his nose, he finally interrupts his mother. "I'm sorry I had to hide what he is Mother, Yoruichi but I couldn't expose who he really is to anyone, not even my own sister is to know. Amyntas was very careful in destroying any information regarding his relationship to both Masaki and Ichigo and his twin sisters. The only reason he even agreed to take on Ichigo was because of your Central Forty Six Yoruichi-sama. He never wanted this for his great-grandson or his great-granddaughters but now that you two have figured it out, you must make sure his secrets are kept safe."

"None of you really have any clue about Ichigo do you Lucifer-sama? That is easier said than done. He is an enigma and one that finds trouble whether he wants it or not. It's only a matter of time before someone or something finds out about him." The Flash Goddess says in resignation.

Venelana looks at Yoruichi with sympathy; she knows what it means to have your loved ones in danger. Her own memories come back as she stares at her son and remembers the vicious battles he and Grayfia had engaged in during their own unrest. She now has real reason to worry about her daughter's safety as well as Ichigo's, because whether she knew it or not, Rias had feelings for the young man now. Deep feelings that surprised even herself when she was staying with her youngest child and watched the two of them interact, she could see them clearly now.

Now that the truth about whom the young man was revealed to her, it made one thing easier for the mother to accept and that had her smiling on the inside. Now she had an option that wasn't available to the Clan, one that hadn't been known before but was now. All they had to do was find a way to nullify the kidō that Yoruichi was sure was keeping Ichigo from his inner-world. Force was out of the question, the shinigami was certain her friend would have thought of that and had counter-measures to deal with them. So they had to figure out what the trigger was to unlock his memories.

"Mother, what do you want to do about this now that you know?" Her son asks.

Venelana looks at Yoruichi who gives her a head-shake. "For now we do nothing Sirzech, just keep a closer eye on them is all. Yoruichi will be staying in the town as well from now on and will help out but she can't be seen by the children if we can help it. Also I think it might be a good idea for her to find out why these fallen angels have taken an interest in our territory as well. Rumor has it that a group has settled near or in our lands and I want to know why."

Sirzech Lucifer nods his agreement and gets up. "Mother, Yoruichi-san what do you want me to tell Amyntas?"

The shinigami spoke then. "Tell him the truth Lucifer-sama. When the time comes, he, Isshin and my idiot of a best friend will have a lot to answer for. Until then, we allow Ichigo to live as normal a life as possible. Because if I know Ichigo's zanpakutō spirit, it won't take long before he breaks through and free Ichigo's memories."

XXXX

Violet eyes and dark black hair whip around as the newest lieutenant of the Gotei Thirteen shunpo's her way to her lunch date. Her face though is a mixture of both happiness and sadness as she can't stop thinking about the human she calls her best friend. It has been close to a year since his disappearance and none of the Captains would speak of the circumstances surrounding him or the events of Aizen's death. Even the Shiba's and Ichigo's father have no idea as to what happened to him right after the battle. That had been the one of the biggest shocks of her life, finding out that Ichigo was related to her late mentor by blood, Kaien Shiba. Kukaku had let it slip during her visit to the Shiba family during a memorial service for those shinigami that had fallen over the past century.

She had always thought that the orange head was more than familiar to her, but upon finding out how true it was made not knowing where he was that much harder for her and others. Not even Renji or Rangiku could pull her out of her depression quickly enough when it came, only her brother seemed to know what she was feeling and had become her biggest pillar of support during those times. A smile forms again as she thinks about how close she and her brother have become since the Winter War ended. He even allowed her to become Captain Ukitake's lieutenant after she had proven herself during her battles with the Espada and other powerful hollows since then.

Thankfully though those days were also behind them as Tia Harribel and Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck had taken over ruling Las Noches after the defeat of the renegade captains. Peace, as close as it could be called that, was achieved when Captain Zaraki, Squad Eleven and the Vizards helped the two former Espada put down the threats to their reign. Now Nelliel and her fracción would visit them in Soul Society from time to time keeping them informed of the going-ons in the Hollow world. Nelliel also hadn't taken the news about Ichigo well either after Rukia told her that no one has seen him since the end of the war. The Vizards on the other hand had been tight-lipped about their missing member for some reason. Captain Hirako insisted that one day Ichigo would show up with a lame story as to where he had been, but Rukia had the feeling that the Captains knew what truly happened that day.

Now she was on her way to meet up with Renji, Rangiku and Momo for lunch. Another smile forms on her as she thought about her pineapple boyfriend. The fool had finally gotten up the nerve to ask her brother if he could officially court his sister shortly after the war. Even she had been surprised by his request and though she aware of the rumors surrounding her and Ichigo, what no one knew but her, was that Ichigo didn't feel that way about her or any of the other women in his life. He never looked at any of them as more than family at best, which she knew he included her as when he told her during her last stay in the World of the Living. She always was grateful of his admission because they both knew the bounds they had with one another. Stepping down from the last rooftop, she sees her friends waiting in the little shop near the southern gate of the Seritei.

"Hey guys." She says as she sits next to Renji.

"Hi Rukia." Momo says as she scans her menu.

"Ah Rukiiiaaaa." Rangiku slurs as she nods her sake saucer in her direction.

Renji gives her a kiss on her cheek before he gives her hand a squeeze. "Hi Rukia."

"AAAAWWWW SO CUTE!" Two voices sigh out after the display of affection.

"Shut it you two." Rukia says jokingly.

Momo grins as she still continues to look over the menu. "So Rukia what did Captain Ukitake and Shiro-kun want with you today?"

"Yeah what did Shiro-kun want with ya?" Rangiku fumbles as she picks up her own menu.

Rukia face scrunches up as she answers. "I'm going back to high school."

Three faces freeze upon hearing that statement. Renji looks at her askance before he asks for the details of her mission.

"I'm not going right away; it seems the school I'm going to just let out for the semester. I'll be going there as a third year."

"Why would they send you to a human high school Rukia? It makes little sense." Momo says as she taps her chin.

"Well that's because my girl has had the most recent experiences with the modern human world. Something many of us lack and I'm guessing as a lieutenant she is strong enough to face what ever it is they want her to investigate while she is there. Right Rukia?"

"Yeah, something like that. But also niisama says he …"

"What?" The voices ask at the same time.

"I said niisama wants Re…."

Now three very confused lieutenants look at each other before looking at the now red-faced Rukia.

Renji gives her nudge. "Rukia what does your brother have to do with this?"

Rukia sits up straight, closes her eyes, folds her hands on the table and takes a deep breath. Opening her eyes, she turns to her suitor and announces to him what she is having trouble saying.

"Renji Abarai, it is the judgment of both niisama and the Kuchiki Elders that after your duties with Squad Six you are to train with your Captain after work on the following. You will be required to learn the Kuchiki Clan history; you will take classes in both nobility and etiquette with niisama as well. And finally you will learn the proper ways of treating your future wife, the Heir of the Kuchiki Clan. These terms are not negotiable as you will someday provide the Clan its future heir as well. Oniisama thinks that my time away would be beneficial for you to learn without me being a distraction."

Two silent lieutenants stare first at the raven-haired woman before shifting their eyes to the now frozen red-haired man as he stares at his future bride with a mixture of both horror and fear in his eyes.

"A…ah…Ru…Rukia. I…I…have…to what now?"

"You heard me Renji Abarai. Don't make me repeat myself. Now do you accept or do I have to tell niisama you wish to withdraw your name as my suitor? Well Renji!?" Rukia says as she narrows her eyes on her fiancée.

"I guess so Rukia. What I mean is yes I'll do as your brother and the Elders demand of me! Anything for you, you know that." He says with a look of despair growing in his eyes.

Glaring at him, she huffs in agreement before motioning for the waiter to come to them. Pointing at her menu she gives her best smile and in her sweetest voice she orders. "I'll take the lunch combo number seven and he's paying."

"Yeah we will also take number seven as well and like she said, he's paying." Momo says as she and Rangiku hurriedly hand their menus over.

Renji still in shock dumbly nods his head as he simply hands his menu over as well. Rukia turns to the young man and points at the menu again. "He'll have the number seven as well."

Rangiku chirps up when her sake comes and as she pours herself another saucer she begins to asks some more about the mission. "So why are you going again?"

Rukia grins as she begins. "Well Captain Ukitake and Captain Hitsugaya both said that the school and the surrounding towns have been experiencing unknown and highly unusual spiritual events. And because I have stayed in the World of the Living the longest, they felt I would be the best choice after the Vizards declined the mission. So I'll be leaving about a month from now and then I'll be posing as a third year high school student for my cover. The best part though is I won't be going alone this time."

Momo sighs as she whines out. "I wish I could get a mission to the World of the Living. The only time I have gone was during our Academy days and during that time."

The two other shinigami women wince in remembrance at hearing Momo's recollections before Rukia face brightens up.

"Funny thing you should say that Momo." Rukia says with a grin forming.

Momo's face begins to show excitement as she asks. "Don't tell me? Please don't be joking Rukia, please don't"

"Yeap, you and me will be going as sisters for our cover. Since this is your first mission you will be my support though, but still it's going to be me and you. Captain Hirako thought it would do you some good to get out of Soul Society and have some fun for once. So are you up to it Lieutenant Hinamori?"

"YES! I'll go! I'll go Rukia! OhthankyouthankyouthankyouRukia! ! !"

"Great you just created a monster Kuchiki. Now that that's settled, I have a few things I need for you guys to pick up for me when you go. I'll give you my list later."

Momo and Rukia blanch at that, her lists were infamous for the outrageous clothes she had some of the younger women get for her during their tours. Renji after finally coming to his senses also pales when he hears Rangiku's statement. Shaking his head to clear the horrible images that flashed through his head, he looks at the woman next to him.

"So Rukia where are they sending you?" Her soon-to-be husband asks.

Taking a sip of her tea, she shrugs her shoulders. "Some place called Kuoh Academy south of Tokyo I think."

XXXX

Rias kept wondering what was bothering Ichigo since he woke up in the afternoon. He acted fine during the walk home and during dinner, he even went out for his nightly run after he argued that not once has he suffered two episodes in the same day. After the three finally yielded, he did something she didn't expect. He kissed her on her cheek, the same cheek she was gently running her own hand over now.

"Buchou if you keep rubbing that spot, you're likely to rub a hole in your cheek." Akeno says as she reads her current BL manga.

"He kissed me Akeno. Ichigo Shiba kissed me. What do you think I should do?" The Gremory heiress asks in a silent whisper.

Two hands gently slap her head. Koneko and Akeno both give her vexed looks before the older of the two women speaks. "It's pretty obvious Buchou what you should do. Don't you agree Koneko-chan?"

"Yes Akeno-senpai. Buchou I think you and oniisan have feelings for each other but because you two are so stubborn and dense neither of you will admit to them. So I think you should ask him tonight when you go to bed what he feels towards you."

Rias and Akeno both look at the young neko with a measure of surprise and a hint of affection that she has been growing more confident since Ichigo's arrival to their little family. Rias smiles as she hugs the young white-haired girl tight.

"You wouldn't mind if me and Ichigo do have a relationship Koneko?"

"Not as long as he can visit. Then no Buchou, I don't mind."

"Ara, ara Rias-sama, you got his younger sister's approval, now you are good to go." Akeno says with a chuckle.

"And what about you Akeno, do you mind?"

Setting her manga down, the young thunder priestess sighs as she organizes her thoughts. "I will admit I'm very jealous of you Rias, Ichigo is not just some man off the street. He is almost perfect in every way. From the way he treats us despite our own flaws, to taking care of Koneko as if it was second nature. To putting up with you and me and our fighting. But most of all Rias, he is nothing but honorable in his actions, not once have I seen him do anything at home or school that could be construed in a negative light. So in all honesty, I'm happy that you decided on what you want and I won't stand in your way if you truly wish to pursue this."

Rias turns to her oldest friend and grabs her in a two arm hug. "Thank you Akeno. You don't know how much this means to me."

"Oh you have no idea how much fun it will be for me when I send the Gremory peerages the stories of your pursuits of Ichigo."

The King of the Rias Gremory peerage laughs in her friend's shoulders as she replies. "I knew that you'd find a way to ruin this."

Patting her friend's back, the sadist smiles sadly however as she mentions one fact. "What are you going to do about Riser?"

"When the time comes Akeno I will fight for my freedom. No matter what I won't marry that playboy."

"Then I guess we should think about expanding our peerage then Rias. It won't do us much good with just the five of us. Three have yet to see any real Rating Games and I think it would be a good idea for them to see at least one or two when we are in the Underworld."

Rias sits back and slowly nods her head in agreement as she places a hand on the young neko's head. "You're right of course Akeno; it would be a good idea for Koneko and Yuuto to see a game or two. But Gasper isn't ready to leave his room and I'm not sure if I'm ready to train him yet."

Koneko heads shifts towards the front door. "Niisama is home Rias-sama."

With that the three women get up to meet their only male roommate before he walks in.

XXXX

Ichigo's run had definitely cleared his head, his thoughts solely on the person he shares his room with. Starting with the beginning of their new arrangement, he just knew she would eventually do away with her pajamas. Sure enough over the weeks she wore less and less until he woke up in defeat to a nude body squeezing him tight. The first day he tried desperately to get her to wear just panties and nightgown but she just pouted and told them they bothered her while she slept. She then used her best weapons against him as she explained with her sad eyes and pouting face that she could only sleep nude and need her hugging pillow. He of course was that pillow.

He smirks as he remembers her easily defeating any argument he could think of until finally Akeno and Koneko both told him to give it up. As he was turning to face the two, he could have sworn she had a smile on her face but he wasn't able to catch her with it. From that night on, he just went with it and gradually he grew accustomed to it. However it did lead some pretty interesting mornings. And that lead to his next issue, he knew he was developing feelings for her, not just because of her body, but more so because of whom she was as a person in private.

Despite that one unusual habit as he calls it now, he found Rias was actually a very intelligent woman and not just a spoiled rich girl; she was friendly and courteous to everyone around her. He felt guilty for assuming that because she was of a higher social status, maybe of noble birth in her homeland' she would be a stuck-up bitch. Was he ever proven wrong he thought with a grin; she had time and time again, ruined that notion with her actions both at school and at home.

At school despite her and Akeno being the number one and two school idols, they never treated anyone with nothing less than respect unless of course you gave either one reason not too. Only one girl had made that mistake by calling her a whore during one of the third year's group gossip sessions. Unfortunately Rias had overheard the unflattering remarks and proceeded to tear into the senior with not just malice but had downright terrified the foreign exchange student, she left school for her own country the next day.

When Ichigo learned about the confrontation, he asked what had happened and all she said was she wasn't just defending her honor but someone else's as well. Akeno told him later that day what the girl had actually said. Ichigo could remember the anger that coursed through his own veins that he was also the subject of those rumors. Rias had heard the girl say that the only reason Ichigo was with the two of them was because he was sleeping with one or the other every night and that he was only using them to gain popularity and status among the students.

For the next week the school walked on pins and needles when the two of them walked the hallways, no one dared get near them as both projected angry auras. Even Akeno had sense to keep her usual teasing on hold until the pair calmed down, but for a very long time, no one made mention of their relationship out-loud again. It had been the only time Ichigo was unapproachable by the lower classmen except Yuuto who would spar with Ichigo after school at a local dojo. That thankfully helped Ichigo to lessen his own anger over the week, which in turn made Rias's own anger seeped away.

After that, no one would mention their unique relationship ever again, at least on school grounds. It did however draw the two of them closer together than ever, both never leaving the other's side except when Ichigo went to pick up Koneko, and Rias and Akeno had club. Other than the occasional ghost hunts, he, Rias, Akeno and Koneko were always with one another. The only time they spent alone was during their shared bath and bedtime. He respected her during those times, and she teased him unmercifully for it, but never did she hint at wanting more until this morning. That kiss and his kiss before he launched himself out the door for his nightly run marked a change. A change he had to know if she was willing to take with him. Arranged fiancée be damned, he wasn't going to let her go like that, not if he had…

As he walked through the sally-port gate, he paused just inside the wall looking towards the house. Inside he knew he would have to confront her about what their changing relationship and if he was honest he was scared that maybe he had read too much into her kiss. Doubts plague him until he realizes one important thing that they have all told him over and over. Make new memories with those around you. She is who he wanted to create new memories with, Akeno, Koneko and Yuuto as well had become his friends and more importantly his family of sorts. Over the months, not once have any of them shunned him because of he set-backs with his black-outs. Not once did he feel unwanted, unwelcomed or anything negative from his house-mates.

Smacking himself in the head, he groans at the most obvious fact. He has a nude girl sleep with him every night, who the hell else would do that but…but what is what he wanted to know. He knew how he felt now, but would she, could she return his feelings? Would they change if she said no? Could he find it in himself to stay if she said no? No was a possibility that could only be answered by him asking that question. Could she see them becoming more? Only one way for him to find out as he makes his way up the path and stands before the front doors.

The door opens just as he reached them and standing there waiting for him were his three roommates, two with smiles and the last with a very visible blush. Not a word was said as he sat on the genkan and took of his running shoes and put on his house slippers. Standing up he comes face to face with the very person so completely occupying his thoughts, Rias smiles as she grabs his arm and leads him upstairs.

"Ichigo and I are taking a bath and we'll be down afterwards so we can watch our movie of the night together."

"Of course Buchou, Ichigo. We'll see you when you two come down. Koneko could you come and help me with the snacks? I feel like chocolate tonight."

The young neko scampers ahead of the older woman as Akeno watches her best friend, silently hoping she changes her fate.

'Good luck Rias. You'll need it after you land that one.' She smirks as she thinks about all the pictures she has stored, just waiting for her to send the rest of Gremory Clan. 'Definitely fun times ahead.'

XXXX

Ichigo undresses in the bathroom, while Rias undresses in their room. He then sits on the stool with hers behind him as he waits, it was routine for her to wash his back first and him to wash her last. After that he covered himself with a towel and got in the bath first and kept his eyes closed until she was in. Usually they just soak and talk about the day's events but tonight he knew it was going to be different.

"Ichigo are you ready for me?" Her voice asks with an unusual pitch.

"Ah…yeah. Sorry I was daydreaming Rias." His own voice cracking as he replies

Soon she has the wash cloth traveling over his back and down between his shoulder blades. The warmth only comparable to her soft hands as the cloth washes away the sweat and grim of his run before she begins to wash the sides and the back of his neck. When the rinse water begins to clear away the suds, she places a hand in the middle of his back.

"Ichigo, why did you kiss me?" That was not what he was expecting.

"Why did you kiss me this morning?" Was his rebuttal.

Soon the hand travels to the front of his chest over his heart as she answers. "Will you protect my heart as I would yours?"

"yes."

The young man turns on his stool, his eyes boring into her blue-green orbs. "You don't know what you have done to me Rias Gremory. I…I want you Rias. All during my run I haven't been able to stop thinking about that kiss. Innocent or not, it had an affect on me that I am certain I haven't felt before. It doesn't feel wrong to me, nor do I feel like I am betraying someone from my past. I don't care if your family arranged your marriage or not, I won't let you go without a fight Rias. I just know, feel that this is right. That you are right for me."

Rias Gremory sat there stunned by the words of the man she has known for less than six months. Stunned by the admission he just spoke to her. She had thought that he would simple blow-off the kiss and her own words; she didn't expect him to declare his feeling for her so openly. She does the only thing she can think of then, she leans in and takes his lips with her own.

'I guess that answers that.'

Neither wants to part as their soft skin meets for the first time in such an intimate gesture, however it was Rias who makes the first move as she gently pushes her tongue forward. Her reward was the parting of his mouth as he concedes upon her delicate urgings. Touching his tongue for the first time sends a chill down the young devil's spine as she finds her own appendage likes his exhilarating taste.

He isn't too far behind in his own feelings after he granted her access during his first kiss. Her lips soft as silk and her tongue taste sweet as it explores his mouth. Leaning forward he gently pushes his own forward and she allows him to do so. The sensation of the kiss is overwhelming to the young man as he wraps his arms around her and pulls her forward until their chests are touching.

They slowly and regrettably pull back after a few minutes, but only far enough that their foreheads lean against one another. He sums it up the only way he can.

"That was…wow."

"It was for me too Ichigo. You should know that was my first time."

"Huh?"

She smiles as she rewards him with her next question. "Is it still a custom for Japanese women to cherish their first kiss Ichigo?"

"Yeah for some it still holds those meanings."

"Then I will treasure mine always Ichigo."

"Me too Rias."

When she pulls back, she sees he isn't lying by the huge blush now adoring his face. Her eyes narrow seductively then.

"Maybe we should try it again Ichigo."

XXXX

Koneko shakes her head as she watches the older woman dance a jig in the dining room, a glass sphere in her hand, the one she used to spy on the couple and secretly recorded them for future embarrassment when they had children.

The young neko walks to the kitchen to finish setting the table, as she walks by she makes one observation.

'Oniisan and Oneesan are not going to be happy when she shows them these years from now. God, oowww, help her.'

XXXX

The white being glares at the kidō barrier keeping him from his king. Since he truly had awakened and learned the truth, he was pissed. The lies and the withholding of information from his wielder had the echo version of Ichigo in a state of agony. All this time he was supposed to be the true ruler of this world, not that fake who tried to keep his partner from his heritage, his true heritage. Filthy mongrel that he was, serving another master under the guise of being his wielder's 'true Zangetsu', has the hollowfied zanpakutō in a fit of rage. But the cage was what was slowly driving him into despair, he knows that it must be the work of that blonde-haired pervert keeping him and his king separated.

The only positive aspect that Zangetsu can see is he is now the true zanpakutō spirit and he has his name finally, Tensa Zangetsu. He smiles as he thinks about what he can show his king now, now that he controls the slowly changing inner-world, a world of sand and a bright moon replacing that deplorable side-ways city of glass and steel. However for every positive action, there was a negative one to offset his thoughts. The worst being he could see his king but he couldn't speak to him. No matter how hard he tried, the invisible wall kept the two of them apart.

"I'll kill that sonvabitch Geta-Boshi when I see him next! ! !"

Just as he was about to walk away from the wall, he hears a crack, snapping his head back he sees it. A fine line running down the impossible wall of separation appears. Grinning, the zanpakutō walks up and taps the crack and watches as it slowly spiders out from his contact. He begins to genuinely smile for the first time in his existence as he closes his eyes and reaches out for his king's emotional state.

'So the King found us a Queen did he?' The hollow turn's on-a-dime and walks back to his own resting place.

'Soon King, soon we will be one again. And this time we will dictate the terms of our power, together. Soon I'll help protect what is ours once again King.'

XXXX

Venelana can only stare at the image sent to her with a certain amount of glee. For a High-class devil, such an emotion is not normally associated with the sight of one's daughter in tongue-a-war with a naked male. However exception can be made from time to time and this was one such time. Looking around the room to see she hadn't been caught, she hits speed dial and sends the photo to her newest but secret friend for now. She could only wish she was there to see the look on her face when she finds out what her kohai is now up to.

'Damn the consequences.' The mother smiles softly as she touches the screen and darkens the image from prying eyes.

XXXX

'Well, well, well Ichigo I never thought I'd see the day.'

Mocha skin stretches as she flips shut her phone and her body completes the stretch. Golden eyes soon stare out the window of her modest apartment; soon the cat would be on the prowl for her prey. She had glimpses of them from time to time but just as she was about to pounce, someone always managed to interfere. Always the same someone by the energy left in the air of her rival. Whoever he or she was, they were very good, but sooner or later, she would sink her teeth into her stalk and then they would pay. Pay because she had seen the aftermaths of their behavior, not even hollows did the things these fallen angels did. But it didn't make her feel better knowing she could kill these beasts without worrying about her own soul. Fallen angels when they truly died went straight to the cycle of life, protected by their former master even in death.

"Well time for dinner and a late night stroll, maybe I'll see what my favorite peeping tom is up to."

Yoruichi couldn't believe the audacity or the ingenuity of the first year living next door to her. She had caught him on more than one occasion trying to see her nude; tonight though he was hiding under his windowsill using a mirror to see into her room. Feeling a need to tease him again after seeing the light's reflection, she got up and as she began to pull her shirt up, she draws down the shade but leaves the light on. She almost loses it when she hears the kid, Issei; screaming at the unfairness of the universe.

"Ehmm, just like Kisuke."

XXXX

'Where did the days go?' Ichigo thought as he set down his last bag for his three-week trip. He looks to see his uncle coming down the stairs with Akeno and Rias beside him as he gives them his travel itinerary.

The older man had arrived two days prior and had instantly noticed the changes within the dynamics of the household. The first and obvious thing was that his 'nephew' and the Gremory daughter were nigh inseparable from one another. The next clue had been how the other two girls seem to defer to Ichigo and Rias jointly on major decisions. Lastly but most important was the fact he could tell that Ichigo and Rias had taken the next step in their relationship, something he had both hoped for but feared at the same time.

It would only be a matter of time before Rias approaches him to ask for his permission to bring Ichigo into their world. He knew it was impossible but how was he going to explain to her why she couldn't without revealing who and what he really was to her without endangering them all. For over a thousand years, devils and shinigami had an unspoken truce. The souls of the departed had only three destinations for those of their beliefs but now the modern world as it was now made that vision askewed. Now that he can see with his own eyes that they might have no choice but to wake the young man's memories up, he had to get word to both Isshin and Kisuke that trouble was brewing.

The other problem was when he, Sirzech, and Hugo had to tell Ichigo's friends and his great-granddaughters what was really going on with Ichigo and how he and the twins were just more than shinigami/Quincy hybrids. They had been able to keep Ichigo's birthright a secret until Sirzech had called him a few nights ago to tell him that Venelana and her shinigami friend had figured out the their secrets. The lie about his memories being erased was now the worst kept secret in his Clan, the Gremory Clan and the shouten owner. Even his own peerage was getting antsy to meet his great-grandson and see the 'Hero of the Winter War' for themselves in person. Many had harbored guilt that they had not been there or worse hadn't known of the ambush until Sirzech himself told his peerage and the remaining members of his son's peerage.

Now he had deal with something he thought he was done with a few centuries ago, teenage love.

"Rias, Akeno, you both have my private number so if anything happens just give me a call. You have Ichigo's number as well, so there shouldn't be any problems in reaching at least one us during our trip. Now remember to have your own fun and no more worrying about Ichigo for the time being. I'll be able to handle him if he should have any more episodes but I don't think that will be a problem for now."

"Of course Amyntas-san. Please keep him safe and if you could…" Rias begins to whisper in the older devil's ear.

Ichigo had a twitch develop as he could see the smile growing on his uncle's face as his girlfriend was more than likely keeping tabs on him.

"I'll see to it Rias, don't worry about him 'straying' while we are away. Now give your parents a hello for me and Ichigo and we will see you three weeks from today. Remember what I said, enjoy yourselves, next year is your last year in high school, the best times of your young lives are yet to come. Ichigo are you ready?"

Ichigo was about to say yes, when he got an idea in his head. "Oh shit! Forgot my wallet. Give me a few while I go get it."

As he walked by Rias, he gave a subtle sign for her to follow him, which she immediately did as the rest of the house watch the two disappear upstairs quickly.

"Fufufu, Buchou and Ichigo haven't even separated yet and off they go to sneak in a few more kisses." Akeno says behind her hand.

Koneko palms her face as she mutters about hentai, bad up-bringing and other remarks lost in her mumbles.

Amyntas is sending a text to Venelana to tell her she was right about Rias and Ichigo being more than just friends now.

Yuuto, who went to bed earlier last night, was finally awake and rocking on the heels of his feet as he wishes both senpai the best for their relationship. He had been surprised at first about his mistress's choice but then again, he knew how much she hated Riser Phenex and her arranged marriage to him. Ichigo was the exact opposite of the flamboyant playboy of the Phenex Clan, a womanizer who used his peerage in less than acceptable ways. The one real problem he could foresee was when Ichigo learns the truth about what Rias really was.

Upstairs two minds were not thinking beyond what they were doing now; arms around each other, bodies as close as their clothes would allow them and their mouths fighting for dominance and that last memory that had to last three weeks. It also helped Rias that Ichigo was holding her up as he leaned her against the bedroom wall. Finally breaking apart the both spoke at the same time.

"I don't know if I can make three weeks Rias / Ichigo." They both grin as Ichigo lets Rias's feet touch the floor.

"I'm going to miss you Rias."

"As am I going to miss you as well my Ichigo." She replies back with a hint of sadness.

Brushing her hair out of her face, he gives her one last chaste kiss before he gently guides her to their bedroom door. "I know he is going to be there Rias, but at least keep Akeno or Yuuto close to you. I don't want you alone with him if he is half as bad as I think he is from your descriptions."

"Trust me Ichigo, I'd rather become a nun than marry him or even be in the same room as him. He isn't anything like you."

Squeezing her hand, he draws her in for one last deep kiss before they leave the privacy of their room. Pulling apart, they both give each other a sad smile as they make their way downstairs to a room full of amused faces and one openly leering smile.

"So Ichigo did Rias help you out one last time or did your tongues get in the way?"

"AAKKEENNOOOOOO! ! !"

XXXX

Five days later…

Ichigo and his uncle are sitting outside a small café, taking a break from their tour of the ancient capital of Japan when they begin to hear shouting.

"Stop! Stop thief! Stop him someone! Please stop him! He stole my purse!" A young girl's voice screams after a man in his late twenties dashes by the two vacationers.

Before Amyntas can stop him, Ichigo is up and running after the man, easily catching up to the purse-snatcher. The weeks of long-distance running pay off in less than a block as Ichigo tackles the man to the ground. Not stopping to see if he has a weapon, the young pugilist puts the man into a submission hold and chokes the man unconscious. Getting up, he turns to see the young woman already there as well as the heaving chests of two police officers and the gawking looks of a few by-standers. His uncle he notices was casually strolling behind them all, a look of pride on his face.

He walks over to the girl and places her purse into her eager hands. The young blonde-haired girl smiles brightly as she bows to him.

"Thank you kind sir for stopping that thief. My name is Kunō and I'm in your debt."

Taking a step back, Ichigo raises his hands defensively. "Ah, thanks but no, you aren't in my debt. I did what anyone would have done Kunō-san."

The small girl gives him a smile again as she bows once again. "Then at least let me treat you to dinner. My family is well known here, so it would be my pleasure if I could at least do that for you."

"Uncle?"

Amyntas walks up to his nephew and when he turns to greet the girl, he almost steps back as does she. The two eye each other warily before the devil extends his hand.

"Amyntas Naberius and this is hero, is my nephew Ichigo Shiba. We would be pleased to accept your offer Kunō."

Raising one eyebrow as she gingerly takes the older man's hand, she responds in kind. "I am pleased to be of service to you and your nephew. Please if you would wait a few moments while I'm filing a complaint with the police."

"Of course, we will be waiting by that shouten there." Amyntas says pointing to a flower shop.

The two men wait as they watch the girl use animated gestures to tell the police how she had gotten off a bus and was then accosted by the man now in their custody. How as she ran by numerous people, only one had actually offered help as she pointed at Ichigo. He didn't have to make a statement as Amyntas simply handed them a business card and explained they were only in the city for two more days and they would be happy to answer any questions when they arrived back in Japan at a later date. As the crowd dispersed, the police took the criminal to the local kōban; Kunō approached the two men with a smile.

"Well Naberius-san, Shiba-kun do you have any particular place in mind for your dinner?"

Ichigo looks down at the young girl pondering how to tell her that they just ate a light brunch. Amyntas keeps a slight distance as he observes her behavior. He knew that the yōkai of Kyoto had a neutrality treaty with all the major deities but the girl in front of his great-grandson wasn't just any ordinary yōkai. Her mother was the Kyuubi of Kyoto and thus the leader of the local yōkai faction, a being one must respect due to her strength, a strength on par with an Ultimate-class devil.

Watching as Ichigo tried unsuccessfully to negotiate a rain-check with the young yōkai girl was entertaining. He could see why the young man always gave into the Gremory women the moment he even thought he saw tears forming.

"I'm sorry Kunō, but we just did eat brunch. I really do appreciate the offer but…"

"Well if you are here to sightsee, then I'll just have to be your guide until dinner Shiba-san. I won't take no for an answer. Mother would never forgive me if treated a hero so rudely, now if you and your uncle will follow me, Nijo-jo Castle is nearby. After that we can visit one of the local shrines, they are open to all, no one will be turned away." The yōkai girl said as she shifted her eyes to the older devil.

"Uncle, you don't mind do you? I…well I guess I…"

"Its fine Ichigo, I haven't seen the Castle since my last visit to Kyoto and if the shrine is open to all, we should pay our respects Ichigo. So if you would lead the way Kunō-chan, we can get started."

In a flash, the young girl grabs Ichigo's hand and begins to drag him down an alleyway before he could say a word. Amyntas walks behind the two calmly, listening to Kunō as she recited the history of the ancient city to her own private tour group. The older man keeps a watch on Ichigo and could see he was indeed listening to Kunō as she pointed out different places as they came out of the alleyway. He also notices that she sends signals to the various yōkai that had grown alert at her presence in the company of the two strangers. Every now and then, she would pause before a shop or local attraction and speak to the people there, allowing Ichigo or himself to look around or even get a sample of their wares.

By the time they left the castle, the sun was just about to set in the western horizon. Turning up a small street away from the castle, the young yōkai leads them to a small outdoor market. Amyntas watches as Ichigo and Kunō stop at almost every cart and talked about if they should eat there or see if something better was being offered. Finally the two younger members agree upon an udon stand run by a disguised yōkai couple that the devil could sense.

"Ah Kunō-chan how are you today my dear?" The elderly man asks as he prepares their bowls.

Watching with wide eyes, she responds back. "I'm a tour guide tonight Hoshi-san. This young man helped apprehend the thief who tried to steal my purse today. So I am treating him and his uncle to dinner as payment."

The man, Hoshi turns to Ichigo and gives a small bow. "I believe that in honor of your bravery young man, tonight's dinner will be on the house."

Again the devil internally grins as he watches Ichigo's eyes go wide again and he once again tries to downplay his actions. Again he fails as he is pushed to a stool by an elder yōkai woman, Aki, the wife of Hoshi.

"Young man, we are a small community and if Kunō-chan insists that you have done her a great service, we also feel you should be rewarded for your deeds. Now sit and enjoy the best udon in Kyoto. Come, come now. Sit. Sit."

Sighing in defeat at the hands of the elderly woman and her young cohort, Ichigo and Amyntas found themselves eating what was truly some of the udon either had ever had. Ichigo's face couldn't hide his happiness as he slurped the noodles. As they ate, Kunō again retold the events of her assault and the heroic actions of the now red-faced Ichigo. Praise was heaped upon him as he was served a second bowl and told to eat up and not to worry about the bill again. As they were eating Amyntas felt the presence of a very powerful being watching from the shadows, keeping his emotions in check, he nodded slightly to Yasaka.

A buzzing sound came from the shirt pocket that Ichigo was wearing, taking it out as he put down his chopsticks, he began to smile.

"Ah, can you guys excuse me? I have to take this."

As he got up and walked away, his uncle couldn't help himself. "Tell Rias hello for me as well Ichigo."

The four watch as the orange-haired man stumbled but didn't say a word as he walked a distance away. Not evening turning, he spoke to the woman taking a seat next to him.

"Good evening Yasaka-sama."

"Good evening Lord Naberius. It's been years since you visited our city. I hope all is well."

Before he could respond, Kunō was standing before the Kyuubi and began to explain what was going on. Well she tried but her mother put a finger on her lips.

"I know all about it Kunō, so you don't have to worry. I'm not angry; I just wanted to say hello is all." The older but more mature version says to her daughter. "Kunō, I need to talk to Amyntas-san in private, so could do me a favor and watch Ichigo for me please?"

"Of course Mother." Both yōkai and devil watch the young girl make her way to where the young man was talking on his phone, his back turned to the observing adults.

"So that is Ichigo Kurosaki, funny he doesn't seem threatening as the shinigami claim."

Amyntas keeps a straight face but feels panic in his chest, the first time since his family was assassinated. "how?"

"Just because I'm neutral, doesn't mean I'm staying deaf to the winds Lord Naberius. Ichigo Kurosaki, a human born to a shinigami captain and one of the last pure-blooded Quincy families. Also the bearer of a hollow being, the one he inherited from his mother when she was infected during a skirmish in Naruki City when she was but a teen herself. Strange that she survived though, usually a Quincy will die almost immediately when they are wounded like that by a hollow and the wound is not purified quickly enough. Unless of course she wasn't…"

"Not many know Yasaka. I…I don't want this life for him but he has made a choice recently that will inevitably draw him in."

A small laugh sounds from the nine-tailed fox as she answers. "I've heard she's quite the woman. The heir of the famous Gremory Clan, a clan of the Seventy Two Pillars, Rias Gremory. Also known as the Crimson-Haired Ruin Princess because of her Power of Destruction. Yes, that would be a very powerful union."

She sees his face grows weary before he speaks. "Yasaka, he and his sisters are all I have left. I hope you will keep this to yourself."

"Lord Naberius, you have my word that I won't speak of this. I was shown what he did for my daughter and I will reward him as I can later. But before I leave you, I must warn you that events are moving throughout our worlds. Factions are forming with or without alliances; old gods stir in both the west and east. Even the Great Dragons stir once again. And the most important news I can speak of is this, the Red Dragon has a new host. A host who just happens to live close to your great-grandson and his friends. So I ask, will you stay neutral this time or will you choose a side for his sake?"

The Guardian sighs as he gives his honest answer. "You, most of all know why I can not choose a side. I can't and won't endanger the worlds because I died before I could pass on my secrets."

The yōkai ruler nods her head in understanding. "If he becomes himself again, will you help or hinder him if he chooses to follow his path once again Amyntas? He has always protected those he loves and will fight no matter what the odds are to keep them safe. So Lord Naberius what will you do then?"

Looking at Ichigo, he smiles this time as he answers. "If and only if that time comes Yasaka, I will train him myself. His powers though incomplete, were enough to defeat his foe easily. Imagine what he could so when he gains his true powers."

Standing up, the yōkai ruler turns to the elder couple. "I'll cover the cost of the meal Hoshi-san. Come by tomorrow and I'll have a clerk give you your payment and don't argue with me old man. Your family has been a staple of our people for centuries. It's the least I can do for such a noble soul. Until we meet again Lord Naberius, safe travels."

"As for you as well Yasaka."

"Tell Kunō she has an hour past the setting of the sun before I require her to return home Amyntas."

"We'll walk her home if you wish, I'm certain Ichigo will insist upon it."

"I would like that old friend." She was gone just as quickly.

XXXX

She stood with her 'date' waiting patiently for Ichigo to call her back. She sent the text five minutes ago when she desperately wanted to get away from the man and his bishop who both stood before her kissing. Not even caring how he acted in public, Rias knew that she would never marry this devil, even if he was a pure-blood. Never in her life would she imagine giving herself to such a person, who openly uses his peerage as his personal play-things. While it was still socially acceptable among devils, to Rias she wants to be the only one in her future husband's eyes. The thing before her certainly wouldn't willingly submit to her point of view, nor did he seem to care about the glare she was giving him.

"Rias, you don't seem to be enjoying yourself my love." Riser says as his hand slips down farther into the back of Mihae's dress.

Taking a sip of wine, she responds icily. "You seem to be enjoying yourself enough for the both of us Riser."

Shrugging as he rubs his bishop's behind with a growing leer. "If you want, we could indulge in our marriage night now. I'll make you feel like a woman by the morning."

"Not in this life-time or the next, will I ever allow you to touch me that way. I will never sleep with you, so give up on this arrangement, because I won't stop fighting until I am free of you."

Riser's eyes narrow. "I'd like to see how."

Rias hides her smile when she feels her phone vibrate inside her purse, taking a sip of her wine; she pulls the phone out and sees his number. Flipping it open, she speaks with a hint of joy.

"Ah, there you are. Can you give me a sec please? Thanks. I'm sorry Riser but I really must take this call. Please excuse me." Not even waiting for a response, the heiress simply turns and begins to walk away.

However a strong grip on her wrist stops her, an angry whisper follows. "Where do you think you are going Rias? You embarrass me in front of the other devils with this attitude of yours. I am y…."

"You are nothing to me Riser. Now get your hands off of me this instant and continue playing with your bishop, I am not a dog to obey your commands. My father and your father may have agreed to this arrangement. However I did not, nor do I ever intent to be your bride, let alone be your wife. Now release me or suffer the consequences."

He tosses her arm away in disgust as he spits out in a low voice. "You will be mine Rias Gremory; I am the best choice you have among the pure-bloods. So remember this, you and I will marry and you will bear my family an heir. Don't forget your obligations are to your race, you are nothing but breeding stock."

"SLAP!"

Grayfia is between the two in an instant. "Rias Gremory, I believe we should retire for the night. Phenex-sama forgive us, but we must leave now. Thank you for such a lovely party. Come Rias-sama, your peerage as well."

Hugo and Sirzech watch as Akeno creates a magic circle and teleports the younger devils back to the Gremory Estate. After witnessing the hatred Rias had for the son of the Phenex family, the father takes a large gulp of his wine before turning to his son.

"Well son, I hope your Mother knows what she is doing, if not you and I will be in an unfavorable position, especially if Lord Phenex presses for an early marriage."

The older Gremory raises an eyebrow as his son laughs quietly before he replies to his father. "Don't worry Father, because when he does become who he once was, we have nothing to worry about but paying off the collateral damage he will cause."

'I can't wait to see how powerful he truly is when he has all his powers.' The Crimson brother thinks as he and his father offer apologizes for his sister. 'You have chosen well little sister.'

XXXX

"I'm sorry Ichigo, I am so sorry I hung up on you." Rias says quickly after she made her way into her room. "I had a small argument with my fake fiancée. No, I'm fine. No, really nothing happened. I…I slapped him after he insulted me. No, no, please don't worry about it. I won't see him again while I'm here. Ichigo please stop worrying about me, I am fine. Promise. Yes, I'll call again tonight. No you and your uncle finish your tour and I'll call soon. Yes I promise, now go and have fun. Yes I miss you too. I'll talk to you soon Ichigo, now go before your tour guide leaves you."

"Come in Grayfia." Rias says without even looking at her bedroom door.

Grayfia enters and shuts the door behind her and places a ward around the room. "Do you wish to tell me what that was about Rias-sama?"

Answering sadly, the younger woman looks down at the photo of her and Ichigo. "He insulted me Grayfia. Not only whoring with his bishop in front on not just me, but my peerage, my family, and worse he called me breeding stock. As if I was just something for him to have sex with and to give his family children. That thing will never touch me oneesan. I want to marry for love only Oneesan. Just like you and brother. I won't, I can't marry that pig. I'd rather give up my titles than to be forced into a loveless marriage. If I'm forced to marry him, I fear I will die a slow death."

Sitting down next to her younger sister-in-law, the older woman pulls Rias into a familial hug. "Rias, you know why they did it. They fear that without the pure-bloods, we will suffer badly should there ever be another war. We lost so many devils the last time we were at war, little more than half of the original Pillars still stand. You and Riser are among the few young devils not married to another pure-blood that it only made sense at the time for them to agree to your nuptials. You still have a few years before you must come back and marry him. Don't make this harder on yourself later."

"I have someone already Grayfia." Rias says quietly.

"The human Rias. Nothing will come of it and you know that. Why would you even consider him, he's not like us."

"It's because he's not like us that makes him worth the risk Grayfia. You don't understand, he loves me for being me, not like Riser who sees me as a Gremory, just a trophy to hang on his wall."

"And when he finds out what you really are, then what Rias? Will you force him to become one of us? Will you take his freedom from him to allow you to escape your responsibilities?"

"No Grayfia! I would never force him to choose. And I will tell him the truth soon and let him make up his own mind then. But I know it in my heart what he will chose."

Grayfia kisses the top of her head as she speaks. "I wish for you to marry for love as well Rias, but if the time comes and you and your human haven't made a commitment, or he refuses, you will come home and marry Riser."

"Yes Grayfia."

"Now let's get you out of those clothes and into a bath, we will talk like we used to when you were little. Besides, I want to know if it's true what Akeno showed us about him."

"Huh? Showed you? What did she show you oneesan?"

Pulling out her own phone, the silver-haired maid of the Gremory taps a few times before a blush appears on her face. Looking up at the Crimson Princess, she hands the phone over and waits for the fireworks. She sees the instant rage that blossoms on her younger sister's face when she sees the picture of a dripping wet Ichigo getting out of the school pool with a towel hiding his face and nothing but a water soaked bathing suit, outlining his…

"AAAKKKEEENNNOOO! ! !"

XXXX

"So I guess she finally knows." Akeno giggles as she feels her mistress's power fluctuating.

Koneko, who is climbing into her bed, turns to the thunder princess. "What does she know now senpai?"

"Oh, the picture I sent to all the women of the Gremory Clan, her family too."

"And that picture is of who exactly?" Koneko knows but hearing it will clear her conscious when she feels her master drawing closer.

Smirking Akeno shows her the photo. A blushing neko hides her face as she feels the killing intent coming ever closer. "I will miss you senpai. I get your manga collection, okay?"

Both heads snap to the door that just blew off of its hinges and a single word says it all. "YOU!"

XXXX

Ichigo watches as Kunō waves to them before she disappears through the doors of traditional house from the early Edo era. Ichigo had insisted they walk her home after his uncle informed the girl of her mother's request. Seeing that they wouldn't make it to the temple in time, they just walked around until it was time to take her home. Amyntas stayed behind the two, allowing the young Kyuubi to show his nephew the sights while she explained the history behind some of the older structures. The hidden devil was impressed with the knowledge the fledgling nine-tailed fox had for her age, but again she was a kitsune of the old gods.

"Well that was interesting Uncle." Ichigo says as he begins to walk in the direction of their hotel.

"It was indeed. So how did it feel to have your own personal tour guide?"

"I am so out of touch with my history Uncle. I mean she knew dates, names, and any significant event associated to every place she pointed out to me. I guess it helps that she has lived in the same neighborhood her entire life and remembers everything she has been taught."

Amyntas nods his head in agreement as the walk away. Looking back, he could see the vague shape of Yasaka watching them. Turning back around to catch up to the young man he calls his nephew, the older Naberius speaks again.

"Ichigo, why don't we go somewhere else instead of our original plans?"

"Huh, why Uncle?"

"After tonight, I think it might be a good idea to do go somewhere random. What do you say?"

"Are you serious? What about our tickets, our reservations? Won't you lose your deposits?"

Waving off the questions, the older man shrugs as he answers his nephew. "Life is short Ichigo. Live each day as if it was your last. Now come on, pick somewhere you really want to go for the rest of the trip."

Ichigo stops and begins to think. 'Where do I really want to go? What do I really want to see? Ah, I know!'

Turning towards his uncle, he answers with a smile. "I want to go to England Uncle. I want to see where Shakespeare got the inspirations for his works. Is that okay with you?"

Walking up to his nephew, Amyntas again nods. "Yes, we can go Ichigo. So lets head back and I'll make a few calls. Tomorrow we will be on our way to the other side of the world."

XXXX

Rias is lying in her bed looking at the photo she had Grayfia send her after she and Akeno went a few rounds behind the mansion. While she was mad, she had to admit it felt good to have a good rumble with her Queen. She and Akeno were the only ones in her peerage that had seen any real fighting against strays. Yuuto and Koneko had observed but they had yet to fight a stray themselves. The only thing she could hope for was that they learn all they can when they watch the Rating Games over the next few days. She wouldn't be going herself; she would be training with her brother to expand her own powers. She had only one hope to defeat Riser if it ever came to a Rating Game to decide her future and she wouldn't waste any opportunities to train with the strongest user of the Power of Destruction.

As her eyes grew heavy, her phone begins to ring again. She smiles as she sees his name and answers her phone with her best seductive voice.

"You want to know what I'm wearing right now Ichigo?"

She hears him snort causing her to giggle but she waits for him to answer anyways.

"Let me guess. I'm thinking you commissioned the same tailor that did the clothes in that old folk tale. You know, the Emperor's New Clothes."

Rias laughs as she does remember it, the fool was convinced the 'clothes' he was wearing were so fine that no one could see them.

"You are correct Shiba-san. So do you want to know what your prize will be when I get home?"

She hears him groan as he guesses correctly again. "My own private show?"

"Ehmm, you're good at this Ichigo."

"I just know my girl that's all."

'His girl! Holy…'

She looks to the empty spot next to her, as she talks all she can see is his sleeping form next to her. "So Ichigo how was your day today?"

"Well, you could say I did it again…" Ichigo goes into detail about how he got into another scuffle with a thief this time and meeting the young victim who became their tour guide. Rias listens to how happy he sounds as he told her all the places the girl took him and how impressed he was with her knowledge of the history of the city. Ending the retelling about the udon stand and meeting the old couple who ran it.

"Only you Ichigo, only you. I had hoped your crime fighting days were behind you but it seems you can't help yourself can you?"

"Sorry about that but it just happens you know. So anyways I wanted to tell you that me and Uncle are changing our plans."

Rias rolls in her bed and lies on her stomach. "Why? What are you two planning on doing?"

"Well you know how much I love Shakespeare; well we are going to Great Britain tomorrow for the rest of our trip. We'll be back on the same day, but I'd rather go there. I hope you don't mind, but I really want this Rias. I know our time schedule will change but I'll make it up to you when you get home." Ichigo knows he just gave her an opening.

"Aannyywwhheerree? "

Grimacing, the young man answers back. "Within reason Rias."

"Fine, I'll tell you when you get home. And Ichigo."

"Yes Rias."

"Make sure you bring your bathing suit with you."

"Huh? Why?"

"Oh nothing Ichigo. Just make sure you don't forget it." She smiles as she stares at his picture. "I just like seeing you in it, that's all."

XXXX

Rias, Akeno, Koneko, Yuuto and Venelana arrived back at the family home. The three weeks had been hard on the young devils. Rias was still sore from her training and the other three had much to go over after seeing four Rating Game matches. Venelana was tagging along because she wanted to meet up with Yoruichi and this was the perfect excuse for her. Walking into the mansion, they notice how quiet everything was.

"Where is the staff I wonder?" Akeno says as she places her bags down.

Koneko slips off her shoes and makes a beeline for the kitchen with Yuuto following behind her. Yuuto was staying the night so he could pick out his permanent room. After discussing it with her Mother, Rias wanted her peerage around her at all times from now on. It made little sense to her why her knight should live outside of the family mansion anymore.

"I gave them the night off." Amyntas says as he walks out of the library. "Besides I think no one is going to do anything but sleep tonight."

Venelana bows her head to her fellow noble. "I see you and Ichigo made it back early. How was England by the way?"

"It's amazing how much it changed in such a short amount of time. We got lost a few times but when we got to the old sections of London, it came back to me well enough."

Amyntas turns to the Rias and Akeno. "Rias, I think Ichigo is in your room sleeping, jet-lag."

Rias nods her head before she turns and gives her mother a kiss. "I think I'll take a bath and then go to bed Mother. I hope you don't mind if I don't stay up with you and Lord Amyntas?"

"Let him sleep Rias, I know you miss him but he isn't one of us." She kisses her daughter back with the added thought. 'Yet.'

"I'll retire as well. Good night Venelana-sama, Amyntas-sama." Akeno says while bowing to the higher ranked devils.

"Good night Akeno-chan." Both devils reply.

As the two younger women make their way upstairs, Amyntas motions for Venelana to join him in the library, were he seals it after closing the doors. She gives him a questioning look, but he simply motions for her to take a seat as he stands by the fireplace.

"I met an old friend when we were in Kyoto. She had a few interesting things to say Venelana."

"Oh, who was it?" Venelana asks.

"Yasaka."

"What? I thought she avoids us when we are in the city? Why would she speak to you?"

"Did Rias tell you about Ichigo's time there?" When he sees her nod, he continues. "Well it was Kunō, Yasaka's daughter who was the victim of the purse-snatcher. She was our personal tour guide and she was the one who took us to dinner that night. It was when Ichigo was talking to Rias, that she approached me."

"Ichigo met her then?"

"No, but she knows who he really is though."

Venelana eyes grow wide at the news. "How does she know? I didn't even know until a few weeks ago and I certainly didn't speak of it."

"Yasaka has always known the secrets of our worlds Venelana, and it seems she knows about the shinigami world as well. But at the end of our conversation, she gave me a warning as well as advice."

"A warning?"

"She said war was coming and we better start preparing."

XXXX

AN: Well there you have it folks. I know it's not Destiny's Path but as I have stated before, I am lacking any inspiration to continue at this point. No, I will start it again but I think it won't be until June at the earliest. I am really sorry about that but I need to step back and think things through about the story. No, I won't start over, just think about things a while as I try and follow my original ideas about it. Also as you can tell I want to write for Naberius because I really have a lot to write and that means quicker updates for you all to read. Even as I send this to Okami to beta, I'm already writing the next chapter which I think will end with a nice cliffhanger. Also Okami and I have been finalizing certain things for Ichigo and his Great-grandfather as well I think it will make things interesting in the coming chapters. Before I forget, I like Kyuubi instead of kitsune, but hey who am I to argue right.