So I haven't done a chapter for this story for ages, I've been working on some other works I hope to get published. As well as some personal issues, I hope you like the update

Satsuki paced around her flat impatiently, contemplating her options, she had handled worse situations under higher stress with ease. Everything she had faced in the past was far worse than this. So why was she trembling and scared shitless? The prospect of the unknown? Now that she was an adult, she needed to learn to take care of herself, though her father had died and Ragyo was an abusive tyrant, Soroi had always taken care of her. Her father had been kind, loving, complicated but highly intelligent, he had fallen for her mothers charms but grew wary of her true nature. When he ran away with her baby sister she feared Ragyo killed them both. The baby sister she feared she had lost found her way back. Despite forging her own path, she realised how naive she truly was and how little she knew about the world outside the one she had known. But she needed to learn independence, she needed to take care of herself and stand on her own, making choices. She no longer needed to worry about battle, facing an enemy, the world was safe. So she could focus on her life, what was important and more rational matters. One thing she needed was to learn to cook, to sustain herself and make meals. Soroi had always done that for her, preparing her tea, her meals, and taking care of her since she was small. She knew it would take time and she would have a lot to learn, she could always take lessons, she had the money for it. However, a cooking lesson felt impersonal and no different from Hojou Academy, the clutter, noise and social anxiety of having to speak to people felt uncomfortable. She wasn't ready to face that yet, slowly easing herself into her new life, she knew her friends would always be willing to help. But she couldn't ask that of them, they had done so much for her as it was, but maybe someone else could be of service.

Satsuki bowed in the doorway of the Mankanshoku family home, since the destruction of their home, their family had been able to afford a nicer place to live. They had been a great ally to Ryuko when she first arrived in Honno city, taking her in, feeding her and helping her through every situation. As chaotic as they were, they were kind hearted and had good intentions. Mako's father was no longer a shady back alley doctor and instead worked for a proper clinic and was popular with elderly residents. He made a decent income and was genuinely skilled at his practice. With her cooking being so popular, Mrs Mankanshoku started a family business of purely croquettes, being able to get ahold of better ingredients, she started a food truck, allowing them to make more money. Finally able to give their children a better life. "I apologise for being a bother, I'm aware of how late it is. But after becoming an independent adult, I realise there is a lot I don't know about taking care of myself. So I hagve come here to ask for your help" Satsuki asked. She had called in advance to let them know she was on her way as to not travel so far and inconvenience them. She had been cautious of danger on the way and even brought her sword in case of danger. She was well aware they would be trying to relax, enjoy dinner, sleep and other things.

Sukuyo smiled, the one cold and harsh girl she had been melted away, the person she was previously was merely formed from her home environment. A result of the resentment towards her mother and the trauma she endured. Now she was able to show her true nature, to act like a girl her age, a softer, shyer and even awkward side of Satsuki had come to light, she was such a polite young lady. "Satsuki dear, if you want me to teach you how to cook, you only need say so" she smiled.

Mako's eyes beamed with delight as she peered over her mother's shoulder, she hadn't seen Satsuki in ages, she looked so pretty with her short hair. Ryuko had mentioned she had a crush on Sanegeyama, were they dating now? They had so much to talk about "Woohoo! I get to sample the cooking" she cheered.

Ryuko was lingering nearby, surprised but happy to see her older sister visiting, they had been communicating regularly but life kept them apart. Ryuko was looking into college while living with her new family, Satsuki was forming a new business, living peacefully and forming new hobbies. After forming weapons for so long to fight against Ragyo, she was looking into new investments. She was relieved Satsuki was coping so well after everything, she was blossoming into the person she was always meant to be. But she would always be the intimidating badass she remembered who was briefly her enemy. However, she couldn't help biting back a laugh and smirking with amusement. In this situation she had the upper hand, growing up, having been abandoned by her dad at the boarding school and then living nomadically after his death. She had lived off of whatever she could get her hands on, when he was alive he just gave her money to eat whatever she wanted. After he had been murdered she had to scrounge a lot more, fighting for her meals. Having Mrs Makanshoku cook her meals regularly and never going hungry was a blessing. If Satsuki learned to cook she would be crashing at her sisters more often, being able to enjoy dinner together. Though she enjoyed croquettes, they were rather fattening and she could do with some other cooking. She could use some variety in her diet and she knew Satsuki was smart enough to learn all sorts of amazing dishes. But she was glad Satsuki was taking bigger steps to becoming independent. She stepped forward making herself known "You'll do great Satsuki, Mrs Mankanshoku is a great cook" she encouraged.

Satsuki blushed, hearing her sister boost her up and give her encouragement meant a lot, she was trying, she really was. Due to being raised in wealth by Ragyo, she never had to learn any of these things, instead she had servants at her beck and call. She had the sort of life people envied and dreamed of, the perfect little princess, but her life had been anything but happy. She knew money didn't bring people happiness, it certainly never had for her anyway, her life had been full of heartbreak and trauma. She still had money and would for the rest of her life, she would never have to worry about being hungry or homeless. But now she wanted to learn how to live, how to be normal, to use the money she had to make her happy, based on her choices. "Arigato, I won't let you down, I will fully insert myself into your lessons and properly educate myself on the ways of cooking" she stated proudly.

Mako leaned towards Ryuko curiously, they were family so surely she had some inside information. They had all sorts of private talks about their childhood memories "Hey Ryuko, didn't Satsuki look after herself?" Mako asked. She had been raised an only child believing Ryuko was dead, their mother had been a bitch. But she was surprised Satsuki wasn't raised with this knowledge, wasn't it common sense with rich people?Being taught to be the perfect bride.

Ryuko laughed, Satsuki always had someone watching over her and taking care of her. Her mother had raised Satsuki with example so she was pure pedigree and fitted her image. "Nah, until now the elite four were at her beck and call and Soroi pretty much raised her" she explained, she could imagine them all freaking out at the news and trying to be supportive, wishing her good luck. Soroi was getting on in years and he wouldn't be around forever. Satsuki was taking control of her life slowly, changing and growing for the better.

"Oh, so Satsuki-san is growing up" Mako replied, Ryuko nodded. Mako grabbed Satsuki by the shoulders, staring intently into her blue eyes "Don't worry Satsuki-san, my mums croquettes are the best. With her you will make awesome food" she encouraged. She was learning to be a grown up which was scary and overwhelming, so much to learn about and remember. But she wouldn't be alone and they would support her. Everyone made mistakes and it was how you learned. But her mother was a good teacher and soon she would be cooking all sorts of goodies.

Satsuki blushed, as manically hyper as Mako was, she meant well with her words, she was giving her the courage that she would accomplish this. She could sense her worry and was trying to distract her. As odd a girl as she could be, she was a comfort to her sister and herself "Arigato Mako-chan" she mumbled.

Sakuya and Satsuki stood by the cooker, both wearing aprons, "Ok Satsuki, so first we chop everything evenly, it won't be perfect at the start it takes time" she smiled. Making sure everything was balanced, even and portioned correctly helped a lot. Assuring there was no waste and everything cooked properly. Satsuki nodded, slowly taking the knife in hand, watching Mrs Mankanshoku intently, observing her to assure she made no mistakes. "So we slice, raise the blade slowly and then cut through the food. Bouncing on the heel but being careful not to hurt ourselves" Sakuya explained. Satsuki swallowed, they were making croquettes with chives, pork and apples, it was another new recipe that had been formed. She had to admit it sounded delicious and would perhaps go well with some form of apple chutney. She slowly raised the knife, cutting through the apples, making sure the chunks were even. "That's great, remember nice and slow, when you are more experienced and confident, you can chop faster" Sakuya praised, making sure she didn't hurt herself by being too eager was key. Though some damages could happen in the kitchen to even the most experienced chef, it always helped to be prepared for anything. Satsuki nodded, watching the ingredients intently as she chopped, smiling a little to herself as she did so. A warm tingling feeling filled her stomach, this was the homely feeling she had never known growing up, why Ryuko was so happy here. She remembered being small and watching Soroi cook, how fascinated she had been with it, he would be proud if he could see her right now.

"Then we boil the apples until soft, but not too mushy. We can use a small knife or toothpick to check. We al dente the pork before we put it in the croquette and cook it" Sakuya explained. Satsuki was a fast learner which she appreciated, she was a handy little thing in the kitchen too. She was delighted to be able to teach her these lessons, the same she had taught Ryuko and Mako.

"WOOOW! These are amazing Satsuki-san! You gotta become mum's assistant" Mako praised, inhaling the croquettes. These were the best she had ever tasted, nearly as good as her mothers. She had no idea that Satsuki was a natural in the kitchen, how had her skills been wasted all this time? She needed to get into the cooking business.

"You're a natural sis, who knew" Ryuko agreed, she must have learned somehow, maybe she had watched soroi growing up and memorised the skills. She couldn't believe how skilled Satsuki was, she was multitalented, it was rather impressive.

"So she's cute and she can cook, she'll get a hubby in no time" Mr Mankanshoku beamed.

Satsuki blushed, she felt a sense of joy in knowing she had created something that people enjoyed, a homely feeling that made her feel safe. Being able to bond with them with such a simple pleasure, sharing laughter and memories. Sakuya had made plenty but she wrapped up some for Satsuki to take home for her dinner, saying she had earned them and she wouldn't have her going hungry. "It's on the house, after all you are family to Ryuko too" she soothed. Satsuki had never been kindly praised her whole life, she had always fought for her place and was aware of how cruel the world was. Sure when she was in a position of power, ruling Honouji, most had been scared of her or merely business partners. Nobody had ever said anything kind to her purely because they meant it, it was a nice feeling. She took one of the croquettes, dipping it in sauce, biting into it tentatively, worried they may just be being nice to spare her feelings. The fluffy taste of potato, crispy breadcrumbs, soft tender pork, spices, chives and sweet apple hit her tongue. She moaned in delight, the flavours dancing on her tongue and filling her with satisfaction. She could see why Ryuko lived off these, they were addictive.

Sakuya and Satsuki sat quietly at the table, Ryuko and Mako had done the dishes and had been asked to take a bath. Leaving her and Satsuki alone to talk "Satsuki dear, while I do love your regular visits, I do worry about you being alone" Sakuya contemplated. She had urged both Ryuko and Satsuki to get therapy to overcome their trauma's, such as losing their father, their abusive mother, losing Senketsu, their abandonment issues etc. The two had been through so much for two girls so young. Ryuko even admitted her anger management and emotional outbursts had gotten better. She no longer harboured hostility and wasn't so quick to become angry. While Satsuki had become better at conveying her emotions rather than bottling them up, she found it easier to cry, she could admit vulnerability easier. She could admit her weakness, she didn't wear a blank face as much to hide. She became comfortable with showing affection and admitting when she needed to talk about something. Years of having to hide her weakness, her vulnerability from Ragyo, so she couldn't use it against her.

Satsuki shifted, tucking her hair behind her ear, she didn't want to burden Mrs Mankanshoku more than necessary. She had 3 mouths to feed and soon Ryuko and Mako would be looking into colleges. The last thing she wanted was to put unnecessary pressure on her. "I'm very capable, the elite four watch over me and I'm coping well alone" Satsuki reassured her. Sanegeyama was rarely ever away from her, he was looking into joining the police and protecting others. He always visited for tea and he sometimes crashed for a film. She had become used to his companionship and found herself feeling lonelier when he wasn't around. His previous laid back and cocky behaviour had melted away, though he still goofed off and annoyed people. He was loyal, protective, driven and fun loving, he was the only elite four member who hadn't strayed and found their own path, he stayed.

Gamagori had become very attached to Mako and the two had become dating after he confessed his feelings for her. While Mako wanted to become a food blogger and taste all kinds of delicious foods, Gamagori was happy to become a house husband or work in the law somehow. Though intimidating and honour bound, through Mako and Ryuko, he had learned not every situation could be controlled. However, his blatant masochism had been rather obvious and amusing for everyone, but for Mako, she had been surprised but very accepting.

Nonon, her childhood friend had admitted her feelings for Houka as much as she hated to admit it, being childhood friends they kept close contact. After everything with Honnouji Academy and Ragyo, she checked in a lot and made sure Satsuki was coping ok. Her arrogance had lessened but she still harboured an immense amount, she loved Satsuki dearly and considered her family. After learning Ryuko was her sister, she had softened towards the latter and helped Satsuki repair their bond. Knowing she would be ok but making sure she never felt alone. She was looking into a music degree in college and said that she would blow everyone else on her course away in awe. Houka being the smartest of all of them, had been accepted into numerous colleges, though he could easily start his own business if he desired. He took great pride in his data and the information he could collect. Which he decided to aid Satsuki with in her future business but also starting his own. He supported Nonon's desire to join a music college and implied he would become her manager. He had an immense respect for Satsuki and Ryuko after everything they had been through. Though he indeed teasing the people he now called friends.

Sakuya smiled "You are a very capable young woman, but even you have trauma, the same as Ryuko. You have a lot to work through and I worry being alone isn't good for you" she comforted. Satsuki had already proven what she was capable of, a driven, intelligent and brave young woman, that couldn't be denied. But she had a family, one she had made by herself and ones she had found. But she chose to remain in isolation which she worried about. They were orphans, albeit rich ones, their father was murdered when Ryuko was a sixteen after he went into hiding for fifteen years, Satsuki believing he was dead all those years. Their mother had been abusive and tried to brainwash Ryuko and did worse to Satsuki. However, they had peace now, freedom to do as they wished. Satsuki using her money had bought them a new home, she had no reason to do so and they could happily forge their own path. They would make money somehow and go wherever their path lead them. But she insisted, saying they were family and she needed to repay them for their kindness. A small three bedroom home, able to run their business there, her husbands clinic was on the lower floor, she had a food truck nearby. It was cleaner, spacious and was better kept, allowing newer customers to find them and feel welcome. Mako had a spacious room she shared with Ryuko, she and her husband had their own room, as did Mataro which he shared with the dog. They all had their own space, they weren't cluttered, crowded and could provide for their children. Ryuko had a home she always wanted, a better one and more spacious, though she was just happy to have a roof over her head. Sakuya enjoyed being able to teach Satsuki to cook, to have her among the family, knowing she had been alone for so long. She never wanted her to feel like a stranger.

Satsuki blushed "I like the quiet, after being in Ragyo's shadow and watching over my shoulder for her presence. Being able to have peace is a breath of fresh air. Being able to live on my terms" she admitted. She could breathe, she could open the door and enjoy the silence, knowing nobody was watching her. Nobody would darken her doorway and everything was to her taste. She could keep her tea set in the cupboard and use it whenever she wanted. Learning to brew tea herself and enjoy it. She could discard the shield that had protected her for so long. She could act and feel like a teenager, the youth she spent fighting, she could now breathe easier.

Sakuya reached out to take her hand "You've come a long way and I'm so proud of you. But you don't have anyone to keep you company. You are still young and you need someone to take care of you" she reminded her. Everything that Satsuki had been through, any other girl would have broken under that pressure, but Satsuki's resolve was too strong. Shown by how far she had gone to fight her mother. She felt a sense of pride knowing Satsuki was such a strong person. But she worried that Satsuki was too independent, that she put up walls and hesitated asking for help. She had many people who loved and admired her, who would always be there for her. She squeezed Satsuki's hand supportively "Ryuko loves you as family, though reconnecting after everything has been an adjustment, she never stops talking about you. She misses you a lot. I won't make you move in with us, not when you are happy where you are. But, I'm happy to legally adopt you as one of my own" she smiled. Ryuko was always texting her, always thinking about her, happy to know she had family and she wasn't alone. She was so used to having a sister in her life that not seeing her as often made her lonely. She wanted Satsuki and Ryuko to bond, to be able to have a close relationship.

Satsuki blushed, Mrs Makanshoku, a complete stranger, who had enough on her plate, running a family business and raising her kids. She was going to adopt her as well as Ryuko? She knew she was planning on sending both the girls to university, pushing them towards their future. She couldn't ask Mako's mother to do such a thing, to become responsible for her. She had already known a mother, someone who gave her life. But proceeded to abuse her, to treat her like a lab rat. This kind of nurturing, maternal love, selfless kindness, she wasn't used to it "I... I can't ask this of you" she babbled.

"You don't need financial aid, you've always been a responsible young lady. But you were never nurtured, loved or cared for. If you ever get lonely, sad or have any sort of trouble, you come to us ok? And don't forget to call or video chat sometimes" Sakuya pressed. Satsuki had been born into wealth and made plenty of profits, business partners and alliances while she was running Honnouji Academy. She didn't need money and she would never have to worry about it again. But when was the last time she was hugged? Comforted, had someone to take care of her. Support her? Nurture her? She wanted Satsuki to rely on them for any reason at all.

Satsuki felt her eyes stinging with tears, she hadn't cried this hard since her father died when she was a small girl. Knowing he had been forced to run away due to her mother, making Junketsu for her, her own Kamui. Her father had tailored it knowing Satsuki would unlock it's true potential. The relief of knowing her life was her own, that she was loved and she was safe. First the F4 and now the Makanshoku's, her family was getting bigger, she was cared for by so many. Though just like her mother she had hurt so many to achieve her goals, she had formed many allies too "Arigato" she whimpered, she couldn't stop them from falling.

"Wait? So Satsuki-chan is part of the family now too? So I get to call her sister too?" Mako beamed

"Hai" Sakuya smiled, she reached out to stroke Satsuki's head as she sobbed, comforting the girl while her tears fell. She had been holding these in for so long and now she could let them fall freely.

"YAAAY" Mako squealed

Satsuki held the bag of boxed of croquettes in her hand tightly, the smell making her mouth water, she was glad she asked Mako's mother for the recipe. She couldn't believe she was leaving with legal adoption papers, meaning these people would be her family. She and Ryuko would be bound together, they would never lose each other ever again. They could continue their new lives together. "Thank you again, you've done so much for me, I truly appreciate everything you've done".

"Oh don't you worry dear, it's always a pleasure having guests. Visit anytime you like" Mrs Mankonshoku beamed, she knew Satsuki had a busy life and she was working on a new business herself. But she expected Satsuki to be involved with them, be it for any reason at all even if it was a surprise visit. Ryuko and Mako had enjoyed her company and was good for them to bond together. Even if Mako and Ryuko visited Satsuki's flat and they all watched films together and had a sleepover.

"Bye Satsuki-san" Mako beamed, waving eagerly with the biggest smile on her face. No doubt she would be gossiping to Gamagori later about Satsuki being adopted by them. The two of them were dating and Mako was very affectionate and heavily communicated with him. Meaning the elite four would know about this eventually too.

Ryuko approached, her features softened and a look of worry formed on her face. But she could see the look of love and happiness in her sisters eyes. Knowing they would always be together now "Get home safe, there are some weirdo's out there, and call me later" she pressed. Ryuko couldn't help but worry, after everything she was still cautious. It was something they would never be able to let go of, that gnawing feeling of danger.

"I'm sure I can handle them, but I promise to call as soon as I reach home" Satsuki smiled, Ryuko could still handle herself in a fight, by instinct. Her past of having to fend for herself was rooted too deep, her rebellious soul. Satsuki hadn't needed a sword since Ragyo's demise and the destruction of life fibres, but she would always have it, just in case. That knowledge that danger was something familiar to them.

Ryuko smirked, that sass that Satsuki had shown when they first met had never truly faded. She would never back down and she had a strong resolve. Nobody picked a fight with Satsuki and got off easy, making sure they never messed with her "Geez, so much for me worrying" she scoffed. She may have been the younger sister, she may have been the baby, but she would always be protective of Satsuki. Satsuki had suffered as much as she had, as shown by her tears earlier. Satsuki's resolve had gotten her this far, but she had her regrets, burdens and trauma. Robbed of a childhood they would never get back.

Satsuki hesitated, before hugging Ryuko warmly, enjoying being able to embrace her sister. Being together like this, being able to rekindle the lost sibling bond that was severed by force. They were finally happy, they were finally at peace "It was nice to see you again Ryuko, we need to make more time to bond, we have lost enough time" she reflected. She had spent the last 2 decades of her life without her, believing she was killed and plotted her revenge against Ragyo. With the knowledge that Ryuko was alive and her sister had survived filled her with joy. They had a lot to make up for, new memories to make and stories to tell.

Ryuko smiled, she had always believed herself to be an only child until she realised she was Satsuki's little sister. They both had mixed feelings for a long time before forming true sibling affection for each other. After she got to know her, Satsuki wasn't all that bad and she could see why the Elite four loved her so much "You got it sis". Satsuki bowed before heading in the direction of home, dinner in hand.