Hey you guys, We are now here with chapter 11

Sorry it took awhile. Finals for me are right around the corner, but I deserve a break plus I'm just as anguish as you guys to see what happens next, but I'm the writer? Isn't that funny, haha.

Last time we finally got to declare the love that Kasumi and Ryu shared, but sadly we all know that things come to an end, because Aizen comes back.

This chapter might be pretty short…I'm not sure yet.

Okay no more delay. Let's see what happens next!

Enjoy you awesome readers.

Chapter 11

Welcome Back

Despite how much she was supposed to be paying attention, the girl couldn't really focus her mind as well as she needed too. Things have been such a fairytale for her. Finally getting to be with the prince of her dreams and cuddling into his arms after making clear how much love they had for each other. All she wanted to do was run up and down the streets screaming about how happy she was, but sadly it was something she had to keep to herself. She thought about telling Lady Sayoko but the risk was just too high.

Finding her center once more, she focused her mind and listened to the quiet atmosphere. Since she decided not to follow her regular schedule and make her own decisions, she figured that doing some training wouldn't be a problem.

The Mugen Tenshin N.C. was known for it's skilled fighters. Despite the girl's sweet outside, she was trained to be a killer. After all she did train with her father and brother and most definitely with Ayane. It was probably thanks to her that she managed to reach the skills she had now. Her sister always pushed her to do more and never went down easy. Kasumi was always told that fighting wasn't her thing, but surprisingly she seemed very well at it.

Plus, he said he like a tough girl. He probably didn't mean physically, but she was willing to try anything to make him happy. Besides, she should be doing this on a regular bases anyways, but with the all the commotion going on lately it was hard to find a quiet place to even sit and think.

It had been about three days since that wonderful night. She awoke to an empty bed, but instantly he was at her side to greet her good morning. They had a chat and discussed how to handle the situation. As much as the Princess would have loved to act like lovers out in the open, the problems that would follow would just be too much. Ryu wanted to avoid as much conflict as possible. He sure as hell didn't want to deal with Aizen at the end of the road.

Of course he let her hug and kiss him, not even he could resist wrapping his arms around her and sealing their lips together, but there was a time and place for everything. The Prince stated that they lay low and try to avoid an urge to act like a couple. It definitely wouldn't be good if a servant caught them and told the Lord. Hayate should at least hear it from either one of their mouths.

But that didn't them stopped them for stealing a kiss every now and again, hugging sweetly, or even laying in bed together. They mainly held their activities at night, when the house was asleep and people wouldn't be wondering.

They especially tried to avoid anything sexually related. If last times screams didn't wake the house, there was no grantee that the next would, but they were okay with that, sex didn't really matter. All they wanted was to spend as much time as possible until everything had to back to normal. There was nothing wrong with living in a fairy tale for a while.

As the girl continued to calm her mind, she moved accordingly, making sure every step was precise and on point. One wrong move and it can end all of sudden, she never forgot that lesson. She was practicing in the bamboo forest on the side of the house. It was the second place she would run to escape things, it was easy to get lost in and people would take forever to find her. It was the perfect get away.

She told the servants not to disturb unless it was important. Ryu had gone to check on the Hayabusa clan for a moment and that was when she decided to come outside with her blue ninja gear and kill some time.

Practice does make perfect.

Swinging her arms and legs precisely and making sure her moves more efficient and effective, she was starting to realize why it was important to fight. To protect the ones you love and make sure they were always safe. Kasumi wanted nothing more to protect her siblings, her house, and the man she loved. She couldn't relay on them for everything all the time.

The Princess came back to her original stance, listening to the sounds of running water and the wind and let out some air. Her muscles and bones felt relaxed, her mind was clear, and her emotions were in check. You'd be surprised how many times she wanted to pounce on her Prince.

But before she could open her eyes, her senses flared, something or someone was around. She kept still and used her resources to find it was that closing in on her. In a flash she flung her hand back, only to have it stop.

Kasumi looked behind her to see that Ryu had caught her arm and barely flinched, his beautiful green eyes intense, but that was nothing new. The Princess let out another breath and smiled, "I didn't think you'd be back so soon."

"It is my job to watch over the manor," he replied, putting down his hand, "I'm guessing you've been here for awhile."

"Since you left actually," she answered, "I was probably going to stay out here a bit longer." Ryu swept his hands and bowed, "then by all means Princess, do not let my appearance disturb you."

The orange-haired girl frowned, "I hate it when you're so formal with me." Moving closer to her Prince, she pulled down his mask and admired his handsome face. Honestly, it's times like these where she wished time would stop and they could be like this forever. It would be great if this happened a long time ago.

Ryu noticed her gaze and pulled her closer, kissing her forehead, "I thought you weren't one much for fighting?"

"I'm not," she replied, laying her head on his chest and lacing their fingers together, "but I need to be strong if I want to protect the people I care about." Ryu gave a chuckle and slightly the couple began to sway together, "It's my job to protect you. I've been doing that for many years now."

She looked up at her lover, her gaze a bit sad, "I know, but I at least want to be useful to you…and the others."

"You are useful," he replied, looking down at her, "The concern and love you have for us is very reassuring. We always know what's at home for us…especially me."

His soulful words touched her heart and put a smile on the girls face. She untangled their fingers and brought her arms to wrap around his neck, his muscular arms wrapping her waist, "I'm so lucky to finally be with you."

"As am I, Kasumi." Instantly their lips touched, the kiss a very chaste one.

"Princess Kasumi!"

Quickly the pair pulled apart, the Hayabusa boy putting his mask on and standing professional. Kasumi hopped the blush on her face would disappear with the help of the breeze.

The servant managed to find their way and stopped before the Princess and her protector. Instantly they gave a bow, "I hate to disturb you, Princess, but I have wonderful news. The Lord and your sister have returned for their mission!"

The words made Kasumi's heart skip a beat and instantly the rush of emotions flooded. They were back…they came home… "They are home? Where are they?"

"In the Great Hall. Your brother asked I, to, retrieve you."

Kasumi's eyes looked up and before she took a step, she looked back at Ryu. She could tell he was happy too, but a bit sad by there return. She felt the same, but there was no time to discuss what to do further, all she wanted was to see her family again.

"Are you coming, Ryu?" she asked sweetly.

"Of course," he bowed and fell into step with the servant and secret lover. Surprising how time flies by and before you know it, the time you wish could have was gone. Ryu wasn't upset that they came back, but just like her, a little more time would have been a joy.

As accordingly, the servant led the way to Great Hall and opened the doors for the Princess and her guardian. Already looking inside, she could see the faces of her beloved siblings and without even thinking rushed to be in their presence.

But once getting a full view of the room, she could see that they were not alone. Aizen's right hand man was standing close by with his usually fox smile and when she finally got to see her siblings faces, she could tell that they were unhappy.

"Brother…sister…" the words came out as mere whispers, but she averted her attention to Gin, "I am surprised to see you here too Gin. Did you escort my family home?" The fox chuckled and shrugged his shoulders, pretending to be butt hurt, "I don' get a greeting, Princess? And after all tha' time, I thought you'd be happy to see me."

As said girl listened, she could sense a horrible aura in the atmosphere. Already concern for her brother showed. What could have happened when they were away? And judging from Ayane's face it must have been serious.

"But enough 'bout me," Gin finished, "I came ta get ya. As ya know, your fiancée is back in town and I'm sure ya are dying ta see him."

The realization finally hit her, making Kasumi finally think that Aizen was home…meaning they would marry very soon…

"Yes I am aware," Kasumi managed to say, "Must I see him this instant, though?" It's not that she didn't want to go see him, but…okay maybe that was the reason, but she wanted to spend time with her family, it didn't matter if she saw them everyday.

The next choice of words from Gin were directed mainly towards Ryu, who managed to stay composed the whole time, "I don' see why not? Unless there is something preventing ya." The emphasis on the word, made chills run down her spine and despite listening to her gut, she glimpsed over at her secret lover, hopping and praying that Gin wasn't trying to say what she thought.

How could he have found out? He wasn't even here!

"Very well Gin," she replied, keeping the emotions out of her voice, "let me change first and we will go." Before leaving the room, the girl approached her siblings and gave each a hug, Hayate promising they will spend time together when she returns. She walked past her bodyguard showing a small smile and headed out the door. Stopping at the doorframe, she took a glimpse over her shoulder and saw the fox whispering into her brother's ear, his face full of shame.

Many questions rose in her head. This wasn't the first time Gin and Hayate have spoken secretly to one another. Infact almost every time that man stopped by, he would make a reference and automatically Hayate's expression would darken. It concerned her all right, but for right now, she needed to get dressed and see the man she possibly could be with if things went on schedule.

The trip to the castle was all but quiet. The fox was leading the way and wouldn't close his mouth for a second. First he started talking about the council and how much they, Barragan, hated the idea of them being married. Gin said that the old man was against Tina and Helena too, but he really had no right to tell Aizen whom he could and could not marry. Councilman or not, he still served under the Lord.

Then about how much the brown-haired man was sad to leave and said that they kiss they shared was absolutely beautiful. He gave a compliment about how soft her pink lips were. Kasumi couldn't help but blush, seeing how Aizen was so open even to talk about their personal lives.

After that, it was pretty much about how the war went and it transpired. It was a long trip to get there and long trip back, but they managed it. The east was very lively and Lord Kenpachi was more then happy to see their arrival as long as he got an entertainment out of them. The deal went down easy with no problems, as far as Gin knew. Infact he wasn't present when the deal actually happened. His Lord gave him the day off, why would he turn it down?

A compliment about her brother though caught her interest. Aizen had stated that he would make a fine solider and even considered him to serve under him. Kasumi could imagine how happy her brother was to hear this. To finally restore the family name to it's original glory and maybe even more…but little did she know…

They arrived at the front gate, the servants opening the door and greeting the two and others inside. Walking down the walkway onto the giant white steps, Kasumi could see two more servants, one with blue hair and one with black.

"Well look who it is," the blue-haired man said with a grin, "haven't seen you in this manor for awhile." She honestly loved how Grimmjow was always up for jokes and putting a smile on her face, "Hey Grimmjow. Are you always on duty?"

The servant shrugged his shoulders, "well you know me. I love to work and look at you, looking stunning in that white kimono." She gave a smile back as a thank you and turned her attention to the fox talking to Ulquiorra.

"Is he still in bed?" Gin asked. "Yes," Ulquiorra replied, "he needs more time to rest." Gin gave a playful sigh and shook his head, "Ya'd think he'd come out here to greet his wife." The Princess wanted to correct his statement, but let it go.

Just before the silver-haired servant could invite her in, the sound of an angry voice caught her attention, the tone sounding very familiar. The others heard it too, but really paid no mind. Gin was the first to speak, "He's still upset? Really?"

"You know him," Grimmjow replied, "he's a cranky old man when things don't go his way." Speaking of him, a figure emerged within the doorway, his voice targeted at Ulquiorra, "I thought I said…what are you doing here?"

Suddenly Kasumi pulled back, not wanting to deal with the upcoming situation. It was Barragan, the one out of three councilmen who showed. Regretting to have come, she was too paralyzed to even move, let alone defend herself.

Barragan shifted his anger and looked at the girl, "You! I thought I told you to get out! I told you strictly to never come here again and I sure as hell told you that you would not marry the Lord!

"Barragan!" Halibel came out next, her yellow eyes intense, but calm, "let it go already. Whether you like it or not, she will be apart of this family."

"What do you think Aizen will say if he heard you?" Starrk asked, walking beside the girl with a yawn, "I think you've reached your limit of free chances."

The stubborn old man didn't give a crap about what they had to say. Despite what they thought, he was looking out for the girl because apparently her brother wasn't doing. Honestly, what was that damn boy thinking?

"I'll give you one last warning," Barragan threatened pointing a finger at her, "You better leave before your life is a living hell." The old man turned on his heel, the councilmen following after him. "Honestly Barragan," Starrk spoke as they walked, "I'm surprised the Lord hasn't kicked your old ass to the curve yet."

The two disappeared back into the castle, Councilmen Halibel stopping for only a moment, "Welcome back to the castle Princess. We are making the preparations as we speak for your day, but we need you to make a couple choices for us."

All Kasumi did was nodded and listened to the thumping in her chest. She was scared out of her wits that was for sure, but when she thought about it, his warning sounded a lot like Lisa's. Was he trying to help her out as well?

Gin, himself, was starting to get annoyed with that man, but it wasn't his job to decide who got fired and who stayed. He ran a hand through his hair and showed a smile, "well isn' tha' a way ta get greeted…"

"What does he mean by that?" Kasumi asked, her outburst sudden. The fox rolled his neck to the side, his hand planted on his neck for support, "What, that? Barragan hasn' really been fond of the Lord for quiet sometime now, but Aizen keeps him around because he is very wise…"

"What did you tell my brother?"

Gin looked at her, his icy eyes looking into her orange ones. She was starting to catch on now. It took her longer then he thought, but it was better then never. At this rate she would know soon enough. "Why don' ya ask him? He is your brother after all. Come on, no more chatter, ya still have to visit someone."

Kasumi was spectacle, but left the matter alone and followed the man inside. As usually, it looked the same, the servants working and giving her greetings as they passed. The feeling in her gut was starting to bother her, but even if she asked, Hayate would never tell her. He thought he was protecting her, but in truth and he knew it too, he was hurting her even more.

If that's the case, do Ayane and Ryu know as well? Are they all keeping the same secret? It really is a pain to be left out of the group…

"I wish I could stay with ya, but I've got my own matters ta attend too," Gin said, poking her noise playfully, "I'll have a servant escort ya ta him." Kasumi nodded and said her goodbyes to the fox, following the servant that he ordered.

The servant tried to make some conversation; talking about how lively the place would be once she joined permanently. She didn't want to hear that, not one bit.

The two stopped at a giant white door, two servants outlining the frames. The people exchanged some words and before she knew it the door was open and they all invited her inside. She gave them her thanks and stepped inside, almost scared having the door shut behind her.

It was quiet…very quiet, like he wasn't even here. The Princess walked in more, trying to look over the edge into the room. She swallowed her nerves and left the small hallway, entering the gigantic room. She was breath taken about how amazing it looked.

His room consisted of three levels. There was a step, then space, step, then space, step, then space. The first level just had a huge window on the opposite side and long table on the other end, decorated with all kinds of items. The second level only had dresser near the window and another hallway probably connecting the bathroom. The third level was left with his king sized bed, end tables on each side and a closest. His room was very simple, but there was much beauty here, plus the giant red roll in carpet added a nice touch.

Kasumi was speechless from the site. It looked nothing close to the dream she once had, except for the bed, she figured he'd have a gigantic bed. Speaking of the item, her eyes drifted there, seeing the blankets rise up slow and then back down.

"He's sleeping," she thought. It probably would be wise to let him enjoy his slumber, but she doubted she could leave until she spoke with him. Despite what the fox said, she felt rude waking him; leaving a note or something would probably be best.

Walking over to the bedside with quiet feet, the view of the room seem to increase, it looked bigger when looked at from more angles. The bright white sheets underneath him made the bed glow, the scene looking like a movie.

His face was peaceful; handsome even. His breathing was easy, the air pushing out his nostrils and back in. The red silk sheets went below his neck, the fabric keeping him warm from the draft the window felt. It wasn't that bad, they were still in late summer, so some heat was left.

She leaned over him a bit, admiring the features that made him so irresistible not to view. The ideas of even bringing up the topic seemed all too impossible. She wasn't canceling the marriage because she hated him, but because her heart belonged to someone else. That and the warnings that people seem to be giving her. Aizen probably knew about it too, but figured that the girls would make the right choice…or if not, he'd get his way somehow.

Kasumi couldn't live a life like that. Having to lie and pretend to be happy. There was always that doubt in the back of her head that the others could be wrong. He acted so different around her, maybe he actually did want to settle down…

The Princess wiped the idea from her head. It doesn't matter now. What matters is, is that she had Ryu and that's who she wanted to be with. Nothing Aizen could do would change her mind.

Deciding it was time to leave, she gave the Lord a small peck on the cheek and turned, but before she could take a step, he began to shift in the bed and once she looked back, his beautiful maroon eyes were open.

She stood back by his bedside, scared from the sudden movement, but calmed down and looked back at him, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bother you…welcome back, my Lord."

Her words put a smile on his face and swiftly he reached out to touch her. He grabbed her hand and placed his palm on her cheek, his thumb stroking the soft skin, "Getting to see your face the moment I wake up is truly a joy. I missed you so much, my love."

His voice was soft, but it sounded exhausted. He needed to rest. He gave her hand a kiss as she spoke, "I missed you too, but please get some rest. You must be tired from your long trip." He closed his eyes and rested back on the pillow, "It was a long trip indeed. To much time away from you. You must have been so lonely without me."

If lonely meant sleeping with the guy you had the biggest crush on over the years, then yes, she was very lonely. "I was alright. Now please, rest. We can talk when you wake later."

His eyes meet hers, his finger still sweeping her cheek, "Come lay with me." Kasumi wasn't sure that was a good idea. She would love to explain her reasoning, but now did not seem like the time, "I don't want to disturb you. I already woke you from your slumber."

Somewhat sitting up, he gave a pull on her hand and softly she fell on him, the man lying back down from her weight, "It's fine. I want to fall asleep with you in my arms." Her head was resting below his chest and with his arms wrapping around her frame, she figured she wouldn't be leaving anytime soon.

Getting comfortable as best as she could, she laced her fingers with the Lord's and listened to his steady breathing. His fingers were lightly messaging her side, the feeling bringing comfort to her muscles.

As she layed there, thoughts swam in her head. She wasn't looking forward to what the week would bring and if all went wrong she wasn't highly happy about the marriage that awaited her.

There had to be a way out of this, even if it was simple. What did Lisa say? She really wished she could have heard the other Princess during the festival. Her problem would be solved and if proof were involved there would be no reason for any conflict or an argument.

How was she going to pull of the stunt? She had no clue either…but involving everybody else would just be a bad idea. Hayate would probably be furious with her and Ryu was involved whether she wanted him to be. It wasn't her plan to include him, but she knew he wasn't just going to leave her be. Having him talk to Aizen would just be suicide.

She had to be the person to do.

Was she afraid? Of course. The Lord was capable of many things and if she cried over puppies being left for dead, he could break her like a twig instantly, but she needed to stay strong. For her brother, her sister, her clan, and for Ryu.

Whatever plan she had, she was sure the consequence would be great, but she was prepared for the worst, after all being a Princess, she had to with stand many other ordeals as well, even if it meant have her heart ripped out.

His smooth breathing was starting to push her eyelids down. A little nap would do her some good, although it wasn't the place she preferred. Before her eyes completely shut, she promised herself that by the end of the week, she would be in the arms of her true love.

Someway, somehow…

To be continued…

Sorry you guys, I wasn't putting the drama into this one, like I wanted to, but the outline didn't match and trying to put it all in meant changing some stuff and making it flow perfectly. Not that I wasn't up for the idea, it never played out right in my head for some reason.

So since we all know that Aizen isn't as innocent as he seems, in the next chapter we get see what his motives are and believe me, Kasumi is crushed, especially when she sees someone who she would never expect to be there.

(Think of that as your summary)

So I will get that chapter worked on and I will you see you readers later.

(I think we are finally getting to the climax in this story)