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.

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"Mistress, Katagiri-san has arrived." The butler announced as he opened the door to the parlor. Kanae kept her head bowed as she waited behind the older man.

"Let her in," the Ishida matriarch said curtly, though her voice was much breathier and raspier.

Stepping in the room that she used to tidy, the woman allowed a few moments of nostalgia before she refocused her attention to the older woman. The Mistress was gracefully laid out on the lounge chaise but she looked frailer and paler since they last saw each other more than half a year ago.

"It is good to see you again, Mistress," Katagiri spoke up once she was several paces away from the chaise.

Narrowed eyes pierced straight through her. "I see that you have recovered well."

Inwardly stunned by her statement, the former maid maintained her outward composure. Slowly, she said, "I do not understand what you mean, Mistress."

"I did not bring you here for anything else but to remind you: you are nothing more than a commoner now. You are not worthy of carrying on the name of the Ishida. Remember that." The Mistress coldly stated.

After a moment of thought, Kanae stood tall with her chin lifted and hands folded over her midsection. She forced her voice to be steady as she replied, "While I appreciate the Mistress' concern, I will live as I choose and right now, I only want to be by Ryuuken's side."

"That boy has been clueless and delusional ever since he excommunicated the Kurosaki heiress. I can only wonder how long he will be with you once he realizes that you cannot provide for him." Her words were painful to bear and Katagiri barely held her composure as she bowed shortly and left the room without another word.

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AN: To those who found the last chapter excessive, please understand that it is all part of the storyline. In no way, shape or form that I hope to deter you from your view of the pairing or how the story should proceed. But I do appreciate your willingness to share your views with me and I hope to do better in the future.

Thank you my readers and reviewers for your reviews, Guest, Isame Kuroda, Amulet Misty, DrkSpphrGT, Idyllicdream, muSU1, and Stresses.