Standard disclaimers apply to the fictional characters of BLEACH used in this story. They are the property of the esteemed Kubo Tite-sensei, and I have no claim over them. Please don't sue.

-.-

"I've brought your tea, Master," Katagiri announced as she entered the large study room. Deftly, she prepared the English-style tea and set the cup and saucer in front of Ishida Souken.

"Thank you." The patriarch of the Ishida family looked over the rim of his teacup after taking a small sip. "What troubles you, Katagiri?"

She looked at him in puzzlement. "There is nothing bothering me, sir."

"Yet you look positively restless," he observed softly after another drink. "I believe it has been a week since Ryuuken moved to Tokyo, hasn't it?"

"You are correct, Master," she answered dutifully.

Souken set his tea down as he stared at the young maid. "It isn't like him to not contact us after such a while. Have you heard from him by any chance, Katagiri?"

Kanae shook her head negatively. "I have not heard from the Young Master either, sir."

"Perhaps new arrangements should be made then. It is probably difficult for him to adapt to a new environment on his own, don't you think so, Katagiri?" The elder asked softly with his eyes sharply trained on her, waiting for her to crack.

"Whatever you believe is the best for the Young Master, Souken-sama."

"Hmm," he grunted, "Then I will let him know to expect company tomorrow. Will that be enough time for you, Katagiri?"

"Excuse me, Master?" She was almost taken aback at what he was possibly suggesting.

"I'd like you move to Tokyo and watch Ryuuken for us. It is unwise for the heir of the Ishida family to remain disconnected from his family without worrying us so greatly. I'm sure that my wife will agree that having you there to watch over him and to report to us will assuage such worries," explained the patriarch.

With her mind swirling and her heart racing, Katagiri bowed deeply to accept her new duty. "I understand, Master. I shall go pack at once."

"Katagiri, one more thing," Souken said and halted her from her way out of the room. His eyes were stern and his words were dangerous. "I expect you to fulfill your job, nothing more and nothing less. Anything else will not be tolerated, I hope you understand."

Something cold washed over her and she could only bow again, feeling much smaller than ever. "Yes, I understand, Souken-sama. If you will excuse me."

-.-

AN: I would have preferred to foster their relationship in the Ishida mansion, but it wasn't happening. All the scenarios were frankly dismal; therefore let's see how they fare outside of their comfort zone.

Thank you my dear readers and reviewers, especially to Isame Kuroda, La Kalaka, Amulet Misty, Stresses, ForSaleBabyShoesNeverWorn, Nessie910, and Anna Riza Kurosaki.