[Honor Between Enemies.]

Inochi grunted as he desperately tried to dodge the seemingly never ending series of attacks coming from his opponent. Inochi was at a loss as to how to end this battle. It was clear that no matter how much damage he or Yvon took, neither one was going to fall before the other. If Inochi could only close the distance and get in close to Yvon, he might be able to do enough damage to finish this, but as it was, Yvon was definitely not going to let that happen. He dodged yet another deadly attack, which tore off a little of what was left of his shihakusho, and glared at the small speck that was Yvon.

“Hmm…I can’t attack him when I’m stuck attacking like this. There’s really only one way to end this. I didn’t want to have to do this just yet, but I’ve got no other choice.”

Yvon continued firing. Inochi was slowing. It was apparent that he couldn’t hold out, and truth be told, Yvon was pretty wiped as well. This battle was tough, but it was also invigorating. Inochi was one of the best opponents he had faced in quite awhile. Yvon was almost sad to see it come to an end, but that was not enough to stop him from killing his oversized opponent.

As he prepared to fire one last shot which was sure to be a direct hit, he noticed Inochi stop completely, staring at him. Yvon didn’t hesitate at all. As he fired the Tekkoudan, something exploded from the ground beneath him, at the base of the bridge. The explosion wasn’t large, but it was focused on one area. The explosion threw off Yvon’s aim, not by much, but enough for it to sail by Inochi harmlessly. As the bridge started to collapse, Yvon leapt off of it, landing safely on the ground.

”How? He didn’t move at all! He didn’t fire a single shot? How did he do that?”

Yvon thought as he turned his eyes back to Inochi, only to find that Inochi hadn’t wasted any time in closing the distance between them. Inochi appeared right in front of Yvon and aimed a devastating punch directly at Yvon’s face. Yvon split his bow into blades again and barely raised them up in time to block the attack.

Inochi’s fist, once again covered in the gauntlet of red liquid, slammed into the blades and exploded violently, sending Yvon crashing backwards into the rubble from the collapsed part of the bridge. The gauntlet quickly disappeared and Inochi raised his slingshot at the rubble, firing as powerful of a blast as he could manage. The shot hit the rubble and exploded, disintegrating anything that was in its blast radius. Inochi knew better than to think it was over and looked around warily.

Inochi’s eyes shot towards the left as an arrow was sent flying at him. He managed to dodge by jumping backwards and spun around to block Yvon’s next attack from the rear. Yvon’s blade slammed into Inochi’s slingshot and Inochi was knocked back a couple yards. Inochi skidded to a stop in midair and fired another shot at Yvon, who cleanly dodged the attack, appearing above Inochi and slashing down in an attempt to cleave him in two. Inochi fired a shot which exploded a foot before it would have hit Yvon, clouding his vision with smoke. Inochi took that opportunity to flash step to a better position on the ground.

Yvon fired a Tekkoudan through the smoke which Inochi dodged while simultaneously reforming the red gauntlets. He shot towards Yvon, who fired another Tekkoudan at him. Inochi cursed and punched the Tekkoudan as hard as he could; creating an explosion that sent him crashing into the ground. Several droplets of the red liquid fell onto the ground where it seemed to be absorbed into the ground. Inochi sat up and shook his head.

“Damn…I really hate fighting the ones that can hit both hard and fast.”

Inochi sat up and looked at Yvon, who was standing in the air looking at him. Inochi flash stepped behind Yvon and aimed a bunch at the small of his back, but Yvon dodged it with a backflip. Yvon fired another bout of Tooriame arrows at Inochi halfway before he completed the backflip. Inochi did a quick flip himself, which put enough distance between him and the arrows for him to flash step mostly out of the way. Inochi fired several shots to hit any arrows that came his way, while at the same time firing at Yvon.

“Just a little bit more…” Inochi muttered under his breath. He returned to the ground and Yvon did the same. It was then when Inochi got the message. He turned his head slightly. “This explains much of my earlier feelings…” His eyes narrow as he contemplates the complexity of this discover, simultaneously gripping his zanpakuto tightly.

Yvon smiled. “So you know…”

Inochi smiled in turn. “I suspected it all along. Not hard to guess. So you were chosen as my opponent long before this fight began.”

Yvon: “Naturally.”

Inochi: “Yet I don’t see why you would be so shocked if you already knew everything about me and my fighting style.”

Yvon’s smile turned to a frown. “Who do you take me for? I’m not like those other guys. I’m loyal to the Juzo Hosho, that’s for sure, but I would never lower myself as to give myself such unfair advantages over my opponent just for the sake of winning.”

Inochi: “Lucky me. I got the honorable one.”

Yvon: “That being said, I will not only defeat you, but I will destroy you. This battle with decide everything, so give it your all.”

Inochi: “I tend to avoid giving my all in most pursuits, with the exception of drinking, but I guess it is only fair.” *As he said it, the ground at Yvon’s feet exploded yet again. Yvon cursed and leaped into the air, dodging most of the blast, but movement to his left caught his eye.

Yvon: “Damn it!”

He spun around, but was too late and Inochi’s gauntlet slammed into him with all the force Inochi could muster in his tired out state. Yvon was sent crashing into the ground, making the whole ground shake with the force of the impact. Inochi sighed, breathing rather heavily.

Inochi: “Yup…best to end this one quickly.”

(Sorry that I took so long to respond...)

The character's response styles and general attitudes are incredibly inconsistent. It's almost too irritating to read.

Again and again, his foe's blade fell, carving yawning fissures into the rocky earth, spitting soil onto the grass and lobbing debris into the fresh-running rivers. Again and again, Shen only just managed to evade the strokes. There was no option of counter-striking now. Jisano was moving to quickly, too viciously for Shen to consider anything other than the current battle plan.

Jisano: Where's your Bankai?! Infidel! You can't fight me on equal ground without it!

Shen: I don't mean to fight you on equal ground...

The captain strained to speak as the larger man's blade painted its gruesome masterpiece on the face of the ground. Back and forth, with the accuracy and power of a machine, and twice one's speed.

Without warning, Shen leaped upwards, taking a devastating blow to his right leg. Jisano's blade ate through his hamstring like butter, and came up once more, much faster than Shen had anticipated.

Yet not fast enough. Shen brought his leg in and pushed off of Jisano's shoulder, staggering the Juzo Hosho superficially. It was enough. Landing several feet from his enemy, Shen began flashing in an attempt to flee the battle. Jisano followed, cackling as he sprinted. For a moment, Shen fell out of sight, dropping down a rocky crevice onto a riverbed, then flashed back up on the other side. Jisano surged forward with the rest of his might, driving his sword clean through the back of the Shinigami's skull...

He stood, chuckling to himself as he withdrew his blade, but something seemed off. The wound was not bleeding. There wasn't any brain matter to speak of, taking a second glance at it. Something ripped through the skin of Jisano's back, and Shen immediately flashed in front of him, sheathing his pink blade and drawing both his red and brown. With the red, he aimed a quick jab at Jisano's chest. Before the larger man could react, his back arched backwards as the muscle Shen had created tightened. The red blade poked a neat hole in Jisano's torso while the brown cut deep into his ankles, fastening his feet to the ground with a spray of skin. He leaped backwards, then, sheathing his weapons and breathing heavily. Jisano glared angrily forward, not at Shen, but at what he had stabbed,

Shen: I would have thought that you'd be able to see what you were stabbing in your frenzy... Jisano....

Blood seeped generously from Jisano's freshly cut wounds, but he didn't seem fazed by it in the slightest.

Jisano: That's... You tricked me...

Shen, still gasping for breath, tapped the decoy body with his foot. It was bald, wearing his Haori, a mock body of skin, muscle, and bone.

Jisano: When you went out of sight... You made that.

Shen: I slipped it in behind me in my Haori and came back up. When you stabbed it, I flashed out, leaving only this decoy body.

Jisano: What a filthy trick...

Shen: Your resolve is a lot stronger than mine... You're a lot more confident than I am.... Not to mention stronger..... All that's true enough, but that's what blinded you. The strong have to principle themselves with honor and the like, straight forward fighting... The meek, we don't have the strength to compete. That's why we have to use these "filthy tricks".

Jisano: Don't make me sick, Shinigami.

Jisano gave a massive tug with one foot, then with the other, ripping his feet free of the skin that pinned them to the ground, and opening several additional tears along his ankles.

Jisano: You outsmart me, cut me some new wounds, then flaunt it... I can take a few wounds. I can take insults from my peers. But from someone like YOU... That just won't cut it, I'm afraid. I'm-

Two jets of blood pierced symmetrical sides of Jisano's abdomen simultaneously, drilling into the ground from his body like jets from a power washer. The large man's eyes widened, and he grasped at his body. Two more holes in his torso. The three wounds on his chest formed a triangle of sorts, each seeping crimson. He gave a low growl, his knuckles whitening as he clutched his sword and made another slice along his back, severing the muscle Shen had put there. Shen had already healed most of the damage to his leg, and rested his hand on a blade.

Jisano: You... You bastard... I've never met someone quite as FUCKING ANNOYING AS YOU!

Shen: Shut up. I'll fight you with everything I have, but you won't be seeing my Bankai. You're strong, but I'm faster than you. That, and my abilities are better suited to deal with enemies like you.

Jisano's teeth ground together like jammed gears, painfully audibly. As he looked over Shen, he loathed to realize that the man was nearly correct. His garments were torn in a great many places, but his wounds were minimal. Glancing over his face, he saw the stupid smile gone from his foe's face.

Jisano: You're not grinning any more, Shinigami. What happened?

Shen: What happened? I hit the breaking point. I got you angry. Now, I don't have time to smile, or else you'll kill me in a heartbeat.

Jisano: Tsk... That's absolutely true. I'm coming at you even harder than before. You'd be wise to get ready. You lit a fire, and now you get to burn.

-End-

The battles should be coming to an end, so prepare for that in your next post. As I discussed with many of you, there should be some semblance of a consequence of this battle, not simply a stale-mate. The consequence that I speak of can range, but should be unique and have qualify as a loss of relative significance. I will be posting something with Link's character, discussing how the Senkaimon issue will be resolved. Once you read this, it will all be clear how they will escape. My Juzo Hosho friends, you most definitely provide them with a lovely parting gift. ;)

[Sapience: Obsessions of the wicked]

Captain Anenokoji: (She laughs softly at Aexus’ sudden resolve) I’m glad you’re taking this more seriously. I was preparing to sever a limb, which would have been mildly irritating once I had you in my lab.

Captain Gingumaru: Oh…I can’t imagine why?

Captain Anenokoji: Well, you’ll need both arms once I invade your cerebral fluid with my nanomachines. That way, once you’re under my complete control, I can manipulate you in a more fluid manner.

Captain Gingumaru: (His expression sours as his mouth droops in irritation) …you’re an awfully sick woman.

Captain Anenokoji: Not sick, curious. With that Bankai and my technology, I can create the perfect subordinate. You’ll be able to retrieve me the most desirable subjects and no one will ever know of my methods because their memories will be wiped clean.

Captain Gingumaru: You’ll need to pry the blade from my cold, dead hand before I become your mindless servent.

Captain Anenokoji: (She smiles fondly beneath her mask, clutching the side with her fingers) You know what I think? (She slowly slides the elaborate mask from her face, tossing it in the distance. )

Captain Gingumaru: (He stares upon her angelic, youthful face, her luscious red berry hair and deep cyan eyes are appealing, but beneath her beauty resides a sinister intent) I did not expect you to look as you do.

Captain Anenokoji: No? What did you expect then?

Captain Gingumaru: Not this…

Captain Anenokoji: You expected for there to be some disfigured creature behind the mask, matching what you glean from my actions. Am I correct?

Captain Gingumaru: (He glares at her cautiously, attempting to discern her next course of action)

Captain Anenokoji: Oh, am I disrupting your concentration? No, that can’t be it. It would need to be something far more alarming… (She lifts her zanpakuto, shifting its position so the blade is facing downward. She tilts her head and smiles brightly, narrowing her eyes) Asobi Hiai (She drops her blade, allowing it to piece the soil)

Captain Gingumaru: (He tenses his body, but feels nothing. As he begin to relax his body, a blade abruptly slices through his foot, sourced from the ground. He screams as the blade passes through his flesh and bone with ease)

Captain Anenokoji: (The lids of her eyes become heavy as she apathetically glares at Captain Gingumaru, her grin subsiding. She watches as the blade slides through his foot, blood pooling beneath him.) What would you prefer, Captain, attempting an escape and losing a large portion of your foot or surrender? It will difficult to flash-step with my blade anchoring your foot so tightly.

Captain Gingumaru: HORIN! (He fires the rope toward Sumiko)

Captain Anenokoji: Oh, goodness, please, Captain Gingumaru. This is just too pathetic to bear…( she stands quietly, waiting for the rope to deflect the rope, but it never reaches her. It ensnares the hilt of her blade, prompting her to shift her expression.)

Captain Gingumuar: (He pulls up on the blade, retracting the displaced zanpakuto and freeing his foot)

Captain Anenokoji: (She slices through the horin, clutching her hilt tightly) Clever…but it won’t suffice. You’re mobility is now severely compromised. You can’t expect to escape me…

Captain Gingumaru: HADO 73: SOREN SOKATSUI!

Captain Anenokoji: (She leaps back) Danku! (The barrier halts the massive plume of searing, blue energy, but before she can react, he is gliding past her. She turns her head, watching as her body is enveloped by the same technique. The searing energy swallows her up, flinging her in the distance).

Captain Gingumaru: …good thing you were too busy gloating to notice that I had adjusted my position before firing.

Captain Anenokoji: (She stands before him, badly burned from the surprise attack) Two successive hado of that caliber…quite impressive. (She raises her hand, unfolding her fingers and releasing two strange orbs. They flutter in the air before expanding into two flat, circular-shaped discs) If you are unwilling to participate then I will simply incapacitate you to the point where breathing is a struggle. If you end-up dying, well, I will determine a way to reanimate you. If you’re not compliant in life, you’ll certainly be compliant in death! Absorb…

Captain Gingumaru: (Watches as the individual places collect water, suspending it in their circular mouths) She is not mobilizing her ability to strike me…this is not good. I need to think of a plan and fast! …(he sighs and clutches his blade tightly) it appears I have no choice. Ban…k…….(he suddenly stops, hearing the voice of Captain GeiBt on the other end)


Captain Geißt: I have determined a method for remedying the Senkaimon! I have already begun to implement the solution, but it is important that you follow my directions exactly as I tell them. There can be no room for error. As it stands, somehow the enemy has manipulated the precipice world with kido, restricting the regular channels and implementing a series of their own. These channels are irregular and causing the spiritual energy to flow in a manner that makes it impossible for gates to properly adhere. In essence, a Senkaimon relies on a solid gateway, whereas your current location is one end of a piece of rope while the other end is the Soul Society. In order for the rope to be properly suspended, it must be tied tightly to both ends, but the disruption in the precipice world isn’t allowing for that process to happen. Therefore, I had to thrust an extensive amount of energy into the precipice world, which essentially overloads the already imbalance. Subsequently, it will prompt the cleaner to begin purging the precipice world of excess energy, returning it to a health balance. Once the cleaner has successfully stripped the kido from the walls of the precipice world, I will be able to establish several simultaneously Senkaimon, which you will need to enter immediately. The downside to this technique is the effect it will have on the cleaner. It will, indeed, promote the cleaning of the precipice world, but the cleaner will, in laymen’s terms, be running at maximum. It will perpetually clean the precipice world until it has successfully deemed it clean. This proves problematic as we will have no way of predicting its velocity and estimated rate of travel. It is imperative that you enter the Senkaimon the moment it opens and make your way through the precipice world at optimum speed. If not, I cannot guarantee your survival. If you are at all delayed, you will be swallowed by the cleaner. The connections will be establishing in mere minutes, so be prepared.

Captain Gingumaru: So…I won’t need to use it. Goo….(He is winded when a blade passes through his stomach. He looks behind him to find one of the metallic disks, hovering beside him. The blade is retracted, but she quickly pursues him)


Captain Anenokoji: (She leaps at him, swinging her blade across his chest, but to her dismay he slams his fist into her stomach. She looks up at him before he releases a powerful kido that shreds her clothing and sends her hurtling backwards. She rolls across the ground before looking up at him) there is something wrong with this…you know something…(She watches as a Senkaimon opens-up behind him) NO! Damn you Captain Daidoji, you incompetent fool!

Captain Gingumaru: (he swings his blade, smashing the plates) I suspect we’ll meet again, for which I will be more prepared…

Captain Anenokoji: (She takes her blade thrusts it into the ground, sliding the blade downward, angrily)

Captain Gingumaru: (He turns to get walk into the Senkaimon, but is greeted by a third hovering disk. The blade emerges from the liquid slicing into his chest. It moves downward, digging deep into his flesh. He slams the metal disc, causing her blade as she retract the blade. He stumbles forward, passing through the Senkaimon).

Captain Anenokoji: (She growls beneath her breath as she watches the gate close, fury emanating from her eyes)

[Acta Sanctorum: Deus caedes]


Captain Seinosuke: (He stands silently before his opponent, observing his every movement and expression with his cold, laurel eyes. These same eyes, however, spoke volumes. They described a man of tremendous restraint and thought. They detailed the mind of a tactician, of whom wasted no movement or energy. Every approach was imbued with great precision and forethought. He slowly steps forward, encroaching on Captain Karyuudo’s precious defense…distance).

Captain Karyuudo: (He clenched his sword tightly between his hands, raising the blade with a quick upward jolt. His movements were unsteadied and sloppy. Even the most basic were spoiled by mental and physical exhaustion) Stop…(he watches as his opponent continues his advance, slowly, but surely, he approached. Agitated by his opponents ease, he angrily shouts, saliva spraying as he widens his mouth) I SAID STOP, DAMNIT!

Captain Seinosuke: (He pauses for a moment, relaxing his body as he glares at Karyuudo) Your situation is already quite bleak, why continue this charade?

Captain Karyuudo: Charade?!

Captain Seinosuke: I grow tired of this, Captain Karyuudo. I will finish this. And upon doing so, I will strip you of your spirit energy. You will be nothing more than an empty shell, even more helpless than you are now.

Captain Karyuudo: (His eyes became still, his pupils shrinking and his face drooping as the silence persisted. His head dropped, firmly targeting the ground) …you want to do to me what you did to Captain Nagaishi and the others in the world of the living…No.

Captain Seinosuke: (He begins walking forward, ignoring Karyuudo’s response)

Captain Karyuudo: I SAID NO ASSHOLE! (He leaps forward unleashing Yurie Kiritsukeru before dividing into 6 individual bodies)

Captain Seinosuke: (He dashes forward, slicing through his previous attack before setting his gaze upon the clones, which quickly circle him. He watches as smoke fills the area. The thick, smog looms in the atmosphere, shielding them from his vision) What foolish trickery.

Captain Karyuudo: You can’t dodge what you can’t discern is real…(he says from the shadows) Yurie Kiritsukeru……

Captain Seinosuke: (There is only silence, as the smog circulates through the dead air. He stands calmly, eyes closed and head slightly tilted toward the ground) you sense it now, don’t you (His voice is tender, despite the magnitude of pity felt by each word. He opens his eyes slowly, raising his gaze and staring narrowly into the clouded distance)? The feeling is less ambiguous, but still rather indiscernible. You’re frantically sifting through the various scenarios in your mind, hoping to find some semblance of an answer, and even possibly a solution may follow, or so you hope. Regretfully, as the seconds pass, you become increasingly confused and your thoughts race faster and you desperately search for meaning amongst all the dysfunction.

Captain Karyuudo: What did you do?

Captain Seinosuke: I took from you the possibility of victory.

Captain Karyuudo: CUT THE FUCKING SHIT, ASSHOLE! What happened to Yurie….

Captain Seinosuke: It no longer resides in your possession. Does that satisfy your curiosity or must I continue to demonstrate?

Captain Karyuudo: (He blasts from the fog, each individual body aiming for Akihiko. As the bodies approach, he feels the same peculiar loss. His eyes expand, closely watching as each close evaporates, leaving only his physical body. His eyes dart forward, worryingly locking onto the lustrous blade fast-approaching his body. He flash-step just in time, relocating several dozen feet from Akihiko. He watches as Akihiko appears frozen in a forward thrust, his blade having impaled nothing but air.)


Captain Seinosuke: (Akihiko slowly twists his head, turning his body enough to glance back at Karyuudo) Maitama… Baitariti no āka

Captain Karyuudo: … Yurei sakkaku just vanished. But…ho…no…impossible.


Captain Seinosuke: It’s the same ability, I assure you.

Captain Karyuudo: I no longer have control over my zanpakuto…

Captain Seinosuke: You’ve misjudged your circumstances as well as Kiwamete’s abilities. You remain in control of your zanpakuto, you simply no longer have access to two of its abilities.

Captain Karyuudo: Impossible. You blocked me from accessing them? You…tampered with my zanpakuto?!?!

Captain Seinosuke: You insult my zanpakuto with such ordinary allegations. I did not block your capacity to use your abilities at all. That is a severe understatement of your circumstance.

Captain Karyuudo: Wait…as I search deeper. YOU SEALED THEM!

Captain Seinosuke: Speaking with your zanpakuto, finally? Yes, he or she has the answers you seek, but I see even he or she is incapable of discerning the true extent of Kiwamete. It is to be expected. A soul reaper of your caliber is predictable for you to have a zanpakuto with poor insight. We are reflections of one another, so it is only understandable that he or she share your talent for ignorance.

Captain Karyuudo: HOW DARE YOU INSULT MY ZANPAKUTO! At least it doesn’t rely on cheap, filthy tricks and seal my abilities to shift the advantage.

Captain Seinosuke: You’re quite the comic, Captain. You entertain the delusion that at some point you were on the receiving-end of an advantage. When, in reality, you were as a severe disadvantage from the moment you stepped-out from the Senkaimon. I have dominated you since the very beginning, but that is all in the past. I will only impose my dominance once more, while I strip you of your spiritual energy.

Captain Karyuudo: (He stands firmly in place, ruminating over the various information he has received. His mind continues to wander, cycling between the negative and the implausible.) How…how can you have sealed my techniques….It is impossible to have such…abilities.


Captain Seinosuke: (His dulled expression and shallowed eyes patronizingly glare at Karyuudo. There is a degree of irritation gleaned from his gaze, which continues to burrow into Karyuudo.) I grow tired of this contemplative sorrow you’re engaging in. You’ll have ample time to consider your cumbrance once you’re freed from any burden that accompanies the title of soul reaper. (He begins walking toward Karyuudo, with a gait not unlike a dutiful soldier and a gaze of purest determination. He allows his swords to slip from his grip, landing in the soil like anchors. He clenches his fists before raising his hands and slowly placing movement into his fingers, in preparation for the technique. He is abruptly stopped as Karyuudo thrusts his body forward, impaling Akihiko with his blade).


Captain Karyuudo: (He carefully watches his opponent, leaning up against him, holding his blade firmly in place)


Captain Seinosuke: …a necessary sacrifice.


Captain Karyuudo: You could die…

Captain Seinosuke: Hardly. You’ll need to do more than spear me with your blade if you plan on killing me. I simply allowed this because I wanted you close… (He slams his fingers into his chest and his palm on his forehead) Oritatamu to….(suddenly Karyuudo’s lieutenant dives from the brush, clutching onto his captain, successfully pulling him and his blade from Akihiko’s grasp. Akihiko’s stomach ruptures blood as it glares at the culprit of this most unwelcomed interference.) And here I thought I had successfully subdued you. You’re quite skilled.


Lieutenant Dharius: I was a novice healer before joining my captain’s squad. I know a couple tricks…


Captain Seinosuke: You’ll require more than tricks, young one.


Lieutenant Dharius: (He is abruptly halted by Akihiko’s abrupt displacement, appearing before him in the blink of an eye. He looks up into his opponent’s eyes, before he is struck in the shoulders, stomach, and chest. The quadruple strike sends in rocketing into a nearby stone structure. His body shatters the surface, leaving debris to scatter across the ground. He leans on his arm, pushing himself off the ground, trying to regain his composure. As he struggles to stand, he watches as Akihiko casually approaches him, bearing his division’s ceremonial mask)

Captain Seinosuke: I can understand your motivation for saving your captain. I can even identify with the emotion behind such a brave endeavor, but your efforts cannot possibly thwart your fate. Do you realize the extent of your insubordination? It is not simply I who find it intolerable. The council, those who exist to modulate our existence, find your behavior most insufferable. You can’t expect to behave recklessly, endangering not only yourselves, but the innocents you have been sworn to protect, and walk away freely. That is faulty logic. And I am here to eradicate such logic, successfully fulfilling my duty to the council.

Lieutenant Dharius: Yo..u……(he stops as Akihiko instantly, with tremendous speed, stands before him, engaging his body as he once did his captain’s)

Captain Seinosuke: Silence (said softly, with a tinge of empathy). You have spoken out of turn too frequently.

Captain Karyuudo: (He watches as Akihiko’s body glows brightly, feeding into his lieutenant’s. His body shakes, but before he can respond, it was done. He watches as the energy that once swelled within his lieutenant was purged, leaving him an empty shell)

Captain Seinosuke: (He leans his head onto his shoulder, looking at Karyuudo as he thrusts the lieutenant’s head back, leaving his body to fall to the ground, paralyzed with fear and regret) Don’t get comfortable…you’re next.

Captain Karyuudo: (He is overcome by unfamiliar sensations, ones he seldom experiences. Never before has he needed to feel this degree of fear, this level of anxiety. Death has always been a possibility, but he had grown strong enough to thwart some of the most powerful enemies, but never has he struggled this much. What has traditionally been excepted as death, upon defeat, has evolved into perpetual and numbing weakness. He does not plan on taking his life, but his very sense of being) You plan on stripping me of my powers, correct?

Captain Seinosuke: That is the objective, yes.

Captain Karyuudo: Why? Don’t you think death is better?

Captain Seinosuke: I refuse to sully my blade with the blood of others, more so than I already have. Removing the life from another is something I find avoidable. I refuse to watch the life drain from their body. It is not within my nature to impose some permanence.

Captain Karyuudo: And yet, you want to successfully remove who I am, but leave my life intact. You know, as well as I do, our duties as a soul reaper define who we are. Our purpose is driven strongly by this, so to take it from us, instead of delivering death, is unconscionable.

Captain Seinosuke: That is, undeniably, the same faulty logic that reinforced the many events leading to this day. Your abilities and title as a soul reaper are not something you are guaranteed or entitled to, so you cannot simply lay claim to them as some definable feature enabling you to be pardoned from all crimes. Your life is something you have claim over. Your life is your property and no one should take it without proper cause. You do not have the authority or weight of reason to argue that your spiritual faculties are not subject to extraction upon lawless actions.

Captain Karyuudo: I am saying that killing me would be more ideal than stripping me of my powers, that’s all.

Captain Seinosuke: Perhaps, but you are inadvertently lending support and excusing your petulant and impulsive organization. You and the rest of the Gotei 13 are irresponsible, unruly, and inept, leaving you paralyzed in moments of great turmoil. Do you believe it was a coincidence that we were chosen to deliver this verdict? We were selected upon the council learning of our special abilities…as for other unforeseen variables. Your lives will not be taken because it is not necessary. You did nothing worth losing your lives, but you did misuse and irresponsibly apply your abilities and therefore they will be removed from your possession. However…resistance is when your lives will be in jeopardy. While I have left you injured, I have refrained from dealing anything fatal. If you insist on disrupting this process and thereby directly disobeying the council, you will effectively be terminated. Trust me, I will not hesitate to sever your head from your body if you force such efforts. You should be thankful I am your opponent…I am much more forgiving and merciful than my fellow captains.

Captain Karyuudo: You will have to kill me then because there is no way in hell you’re stealing my powers or taking over the soul society while I am alive (He grips his blade even tighter). I will show you power that will rival even yours…

Captain Seinosuke: Do not release your Bankai, Captain Karyuudo. It will only make your circumstances more difficult.

Captain Karyuudo: Bankai… Reikon Yurei


Captain Seinosuke: (He watches as the power erupts from Karyuudo, but he does not shutter or increase the distance between them. He simply closes his eyes and exhales softly, disheartened by his opponent’s refusal to comply, effectively bringing his life to a close.) You have doomed yourself, Captain Karyuudo. You do not possess the strength to defeat me, even with use of your Bankai.


Captain Karyuudo: That remains to be seen…(He dashes toward him) Yurie ken!


Captain Seinosuke: (He watches as his opponent nears, but a stream of energy erupts from behind him. He slightly adjusts his posture, glaring at Karyuudo, his blade firmly battling against a barrier) As previously stated, I am well-aware of your techniques and strategies. It is nothing a strategically placed barrier cannot handle.

Captain Karyuudo: (He is shocked by Akihiko’s reserves and knowledge of his Bankai) IMPOSSIBLE! HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WATCHING ME!!!! (He retracts his blade quickly, striking the barrier and shattering it with tremendous fury behind his swing)


Captain Seinosuke: You’re slowly losing your composure, a distinct sign of insecurity. (As he addresses Karyuudo’s behavior, he simultaneously leaps backward, avoiding the rampage of his swing. He calmly raises his arm) Bakudo 61: Rikujōkōrō.

Captain Karyuudo: (He is bound by the six-rod prison Bakudo, failing to escape its swift enclosure) You think this will stop me, especially in Bankai? I have massive energy pumping through me, enough to shatter this with enough effort).

Captain Seinosuke: Look closely, I didn’t reinforce it with that much spiritual energy. It is a fairly weak version. I simply wanted to isolate you for a moment.

Captain Karyuudo: To talk more sense into me?!

Captain Seinosuke: No. We’re past that, I’m afraid (He claps his hands, holding them together tightly) Hado 70: Shinguru-nan bōkyaku (He recites it softly, without hurry, as Karyuudo shatters his bonds. As he does so, however, Akihiko charges toward him, his hands extended, palms exposed, and hands side-by-side. His palms jointly strike Karyuudo’s chest as he is released from his bonds. He looks up at him before he is catapulted backward into the distance, rolling across the ground, striking trees and boulders).

Captain Karyuudo: (He stands) What the hell…you didn’t do anythi…(he suddenly feels peculiar, feeling an internal disturbance, slowly building and becoming more intense) What did you do…wait. You are using my own power against me…you knew I used my other technique and…(Suddenly his body explodes, fiery-red energy siphoning into the atmosphere in a chaotic manner)

Captain Seinosuke: (He watches as his opponent falls to the ground, his body badly burned and his energy having retreated) You now see the consequences of your techniques. More importantly, of your impulsive nature.

Captain Karyuudo: You asshole…you have done nothing but turn everything against me from the beginning. You came here completely prepared…and you mocked me for using trickery. How dare you...you hypocritical bastard.

Captain Seinosuke: No tricks. I am simply using well-organized data. I offered you an alternative, but you chose to ignore my warning. Trust me…I fear there is more the council could do. This is a safer, healthier alternative.

Captain Karyuudo: You…(he looks at his opponent, gazing into his eyes) you fear them, too. You know something, don’t you?

Captain Seinosuke: I know they have the means and authority to relinquish your soul reaper privileges, including your abilities. I was entrusted with effectively executing this, and so I am, regardless of your childish woes.

Captain Karyuudo: (He struggles to get up, tremendously weakened by his opponents attacks and bleeding profusely. He abruptly leaps up and charges at his opponent… SNAP …he winces as he falls to the ground, his face colliding with the soil. He curls over, clutching his leg)

Captain Seinosuke: You’ve exerted yourself too far, Captain Karyuudo. You’re bones can’t handle such punishment. I’m afraid this is your final effort.

Captain Karyuudo: NO! (He stands, his leg effectively useless. He stares at it for a moment, puzzled) …how (before he can react, Akihiko impales him with the broad-blade)

Captain Seinosuke: I refuse to deliver you what you desire. (He swipes the blade through his body, striking him in the chest with his hand. Releasing a burst of energy that sends him backwards. As Karyuudo falls to the ground he points his finger, releasing bursts of energy that strike his body, holding him in place) Baido Yuga… (He sighs and sits down beside him) This is a bit unorthodox, the delivery the technique with these strange postures, but it will have to do.

Captain Karyuudo: NO! (He tries to release his spiritual pressure, but it is not enough)

Captain Seinosuke: I’ve already successfully depleted you of much of your spiritual energy. Though, I must admit, your release did help after all. (He glares down at Karyuudo) You will leave this place just as powerless as when you arrived. (He strategically places both hands, one on his chest and the other on his forehead, reciting with his eyes closed) Oritatamu to shūsoku (His eyes burst open, washed out by immense light, likely a result of raging spiritual pressure).

Captain Karyuudo: (His eyes quiver, slowly drowning in the same intense light which overtook Akihiko’s. Their bodies reach complete stillness, leaving only the wind to make noise. In suspended animation, they remain, their bodies connected on a level unfathomed.


Captain Seinosuke: (The massive flux in energy subsides, leaving Akihiko weakened from such exertion. He stumbles backwards for a second, staring at Karyuudo as he falls to the ground)

Captain Karyuudo: (His face lies in the soil, his breathe stirring the loose dirt) …you fucking bastard. I’ll kill you…


Captain Seinosuke: (He watches as a Senkaimon opens) Interesting. It appears they remedied the problem. No matter, I accomplished what I came here to do. (he stares at Capratin Karyuudo’s lieutenant) You’re still too weak to carry either of you. (He opens his own gate, grasping both men firmly across his shoulders. He walks through his personal transportation gate, exiting minutes later in the Soul Society. He gently lays the captain and his lieutenant on the ground, exiting once-again through his gate).

[Fury of the Amazon]

“Not going to come at me?” Elizabeth asked calmly as she held her rapier up in a well-practiced pose. “Then I shall—”

“There’s no need for you to get so worked up, woman.”

Livius gripped his katana tightly as he shot forward like a rocket, not bothering to use his flash step this time. Elizabeth lazily flicked her wrist to deflect the attack with the rapier. But Livius this time used the momentum of the violent recoil to spin on his heel, swing around in a similar fashion to the way Elizabeth had done before she had released her zanpakutou. Elizabeth took a step back to evade this strike but Livius continued to swing after her, his sword slashing quick enough to leave after images with the strange technique. Unlike before, Livius was turning his sword slightly as Elizabeth deflected his attacks with equal speed. Like this he wasn’t completely thrown off his pace and was able to follow up his own attacks. Even so, shockwaves seemed to slam into the still air, making Livius’ already bleeding ears to ache.

“Interesting, but useless.” Elizabeth sighed as she backed up slowly, continuing to deflect Livius’ strikes effortlessly. “You cannot hope to outclass me in swordsmanship so easily with the selling point of your zanpakutou useless against me.”

Elizabeth evaded one of Livius’ strikes by flash stepping above him into a blind spot, causing Livius to pause for a moment as he relocated her. His sword crashed into her rapier as it extended forward and he narrowly avoided having his forehead pierced by the strike. However, due to his unsteady attack, he was sent reeling back several feet.

Elizabeth landed lightly on the ground and raised her rapier over her head, her emerald eyes still focused on Livius’ pained face as her spiritual pressure began to swell, pervading the air like a thick blanket.

Seeing that she was preparing a powerful attack, Livius braced himself. However, it turned out to be in vain.

“Ond du Shoc.”

Livius was sure that he could see the attack before it came. A powerful omnidirectional shockwave extended from the tip of Elizabeth’s raised rapier, spreading out in a spherical form that seemed to shake the air violently long before reaching Livius. Livius had no way of dodging and bracing himself didn’t seem to do much against the attack. It shook him right to his core—his bones trembled, his muscles quivered, and his mind reeled under the pressure of the invisible shockwave. Sound was abruptly cut off as well and he went numb on the inside. His knees almost gave in beneath him, but he forced himself to stay conscious the moment he realized it.

Super speed, super strength, shockwaves, the moments of utter deafness, and the ability to block his zanpakutou’s psychometric abilities…there was no doubt about it.

Elizabeth was manipulating vibrations and sound.

This revelation occurred in a moment, but he didn’t have nearly enough time to come up with a counter.

The force of the attack hadn’t merely been directed at him. Elizabeth was still staring directly at Livius without moving. But the scenery behind her was no longer the blue sky or the many overpasses that hung in the background.

During their fighting, their errant attacks had cut the overpass in two areas, splitting off a single section off it. But it hadn’t gone all the way through. The central piping and chords going through the very center of the overpass that held up the bulk of the massive weight had remained intact while the asphalt had been severed by the fierce slashes of their zanpakutou.

The shockwave had forced the portion of the overpass to flip over like a top.

But it did not stop simply after turning upside down. The portion of the overpass continued to spin rapidly like an electric fan with both Livius and Elizabeth still on it. Livius hadn’t even fully registered this fact until they had already made several rotations, indicated by the way he was already beginning to feel a little disoriented.

Fighting like this would be insane. If one tried to take on step, it would be like pushing off a wall—they’d go flying out at dangerous speeds and would crash into something none to kindly.

“Vitesse du Son.”

But it was Elizabeth who daringly used this horribly untrustworthy terrain as a battlefield. Even if the flat side of the road they stood on was only pointing upward for 0.5 seconds, she could use a sonic boom to move at supersonic speeds, moving across the surface of the road to reach Livius.

Livius braced himself immediately as Elizabeth shot toward him like an arrow. He could not move, but he could think far enough ahead to realize that they would be upside down in the same moment that she reached him like a flying arrow. If he took a strike, his momentum wouldn’t keep him glued to the road and he’d find himself buried somewhere in the center of the earth. He had to do something to stop that, though he didn’t have much time for a counter.

“AAAARRRRGGGGHHHHH!”

Livius’ yell filled the air as he practically forced his arms to move. His feet were planted firmly to the ground, so he had the leverage, but people weren’t built to move so quickly under the pressure of g-force like this. Even so, he forced his katana to swing around, using both his own leverage and the momentum of the bridge beneath him. The technique was difficult to pull off, considering he needed to be on something moving, but he had been able to gain the rare technique to convert external velocity into his own strength for a brief moment.

This time, that brief moment was the same moment that Elizabeth flew at him with her zanpakutou’s sharp tip aimed forward like a spear flying at the speed of sound.

The sound of their weapons clashing filled the air like the sound of two massive mechas grinding together; in other words, loud. Whether it was an effect of Elizabeth’s zanpakutou or if they had just clashed that violently, it is unsure. What was sure was that Livius had barely managed to survive the strike and had stalled for nearly a fraction of another second, making the moment where he lost his footing while they were facing at a slightly diagonal angle, sending Livius into the support beneath them in order to break his fall, rather than solid earth.

The attack, however, had shaken both of them. Elizabeth hadn’t expected him to survive that strike, even if by a hair’s breadth.

“Ah, you survived. Lucky you.”

Elizabeth commented casually as she skillfully hopped into the air to match the rotation of the road, landing on the side for barely a second before jumping again. The force of her jumps was keeping the bridge rotating, just like rolling die. It was similar to an acrobat balancing on a ball, only with a lot more required leg power.

“But before that ego of yours swells up too much, how about I flatten it?”

With that said, Elizabeth jumped a bit higher than before and slammed down with perfect timing onto the flat side of the overpass. The entire portion of it trembled before it forcibly shot down toward the support to fit in like a puzzle piece. It was as if she were returning it after using it; she’d even made sure the proper side was facing up.

And, of course, she made sure she crushed Livius between the road and the support.

“You…bitch…”

Elizabeth swiveled her head around to look up and behind her at once as she stood on the newly replaced overpass, relaxing her stance as she regarded the hurt Livius who stood on an adjacent overpass, breathing raggedly. His entire body was covered in bruises and shards of asphalt and blood was still spilling from his nose and ears slowly and steadily. However, the fact that he was still able to stand and had avoided being flattened completely was quite impressive.

“Oh, you’re alive.”

“Don’t give me that fake surprise! You kept going on about how I’m so shameful, but you specifically chose a place to put yourself at an advantage with your zanpakutou’s power! If this was a fair field, I’d have cut you to shreds already!”

Elizabeth sighed lightly as she turned her body to face Livius properly. Her emerald eyes sparkled brightly as the faced the sunlight.

“I never said I was interested in facing you honorably. In fact, the entire point of fighting you is to subdue you so I can take away your spiritual power. If you behaved from the beginning, it would have been a quick and painless process.”

“Liar.” Livius spat blood in Elizabeth’s direction, but it came up extremely short, what with the chasm of space between the two overpasses they stood on. “You never had any intention of making things easy to begin with. Did you really plan to end things with my survival?”

“Not ‘plan’, no. I was hoping that you’d resist so I’d have an excuse to kill you. After all, no one would miss scum like you. Besides…”

Even with Elizabeth’s mask on, her dangerously polite tone was enough to give Livius the chills. She truly did despise him with every fiber and bone in her body. Just what was her deal?

“…even if I were to offer you a painless end right now if you promised to stop resisting, you wouldn’t go for it, would you?”

“Damn right. I would never bow down to a devil woman like you.”

Elizabeth didn’t seem the least bit put off by Livius’ vehement response. In fact, she was relieved. She’d be frustrated and annoyed if she didn’t end things properly.

But it seemed that things weren’t going to end as she wished.

“Listen up, you damned devil woman; we’re not done.” Livius glared daggers down at Elizabeth as a Senkaimon appeared behind her, opening in an elegant fashion to bathe him in a sea of white light. “Once I recover from my wounds, I’m going to cut your head off and put it on a pike for display. No one treats me like this and gets away with it with their life.”

“Vitesse de Son.”

Elizabeth was paying no mind to his words. She shot forward by riding on a shockwave that completely shattered the overpass beneath her as she shot forward with her rapier held up, aiming to impale him in an instant. However, Livius had already backed into the Senkaimon and the gate closed shut an instant before she could reach it, allowing her to land on the overpass where Livius had been but a moment before. The sound of asphalt cracking and shattering beneath her sandals filled the air as Elizabeth unconsciously tensed her body, unaware of her own exerted strength as she sheathed her now sealed zanpakutou back into its sheath.

“That lucky piece of garbage,” She said in a polite voice that had furious tones showing through the cracks. “Actually got away.”

[Return of the Fallen]

Aexus stumbled backwards and fell on to his backside as he watched the Senkaimon slide shut behind him; he gazed upon Sumiko’s clearly exasperated facial expression as his final view of her ended. He looked upwards and sighed. Although he had survived the battle, the hard work wasn’t over yet. He still had to make his way through the Precipice World. He got to his feet and winced as the put his hand to the deep slash wound on his chest. He decided it was time for him to get moving, he didn’t want to become chow for the Cleaner.


Livius wiped the blood from his nose as he trudged furiously through the Precipice World. For whatever reason he didn’t have a Jigokuchō to guide him through; not that it helped him in any way last time. He was still fuming over the battle that had just occurred with his Jūzō Hoshō counterpart; never before had he felt so powerless. It was ironic how a man who wouldn’t think twice in using underhanded tactics to win would feel so cheated just because his opponent had done her research.

Several minutes after walking in whatever direction Livius noticed a figure coming towards him. It wasn’t the brightest in the Precipice World so he couldn’t make out who it was. Livius stopped walking and pulled out his sword, readying an attack. As the figure came closer he flew out, launching a slash aiming to cleave through the figure’s neck.

Aexus Gingumaru: (His face is plastered with fearful surprise as he instinctively blocks the blow with his own sword) Whoa! (He observes his apparent assailant) Livius?! Why?

Livius Abel: (He immediately notices Aexus’ face and grumbles irritatedly; he re-sheathes his sword and coldly glares at Aexus) Well, don’t just stand around there! Let’s go!

Aexus Gingumaru: Okay, okay. *under his breath* You would’ve thought you were trying to kill me.

Livius Abel: (He looks back at Aexus, his eyes blazing with aimless fury) Did you say something? (Aexus shakes his head innocently)

The two Captains silently traversed through the Precipice World. For Aexus it was one of the most awkward situations to be in. Livius wasn’t known for his sociability and to make it worse he seemed more intimidating than usual. Livius, on the other hand, was just hugely irritated by Aexus’ presence. Suddenly Livius saw a white light about 800 metres ahead of him. After all that walking they had finally found the Senkaimon back to Seireitei. They both instinctively picked up their speed.

Livius Abel: At last, the exit…

Aexus Gingumaru: (He can hear the sound of something moving at high speed in the distance) Um, Livius I think I can hear the Cleaner coming…

Livius Abel: Will you just shut up for a second!

Aexus Gingumaru: But I haven’t even been speaking!? (Suddenly the Cleaner comes roaring around the corner and begins moving like a runaway train in their direction) Ah, Sod’s Law we meet again…

Livius cursed loudly as the two Captains began sprinting for their lives towards the Senkaimon ahead of them, adrenaline coursing through their bodies. They only had around 200 metres to go but the Cleaner was quickly catching up them; of the two Livius was faster and was slightly ahead of Aexus in reaching the Senkaimon.

Aexus Gingumaru: Gah! Goddammit! (He winces in pain as he holds the deep wound Sumiko gave to him)

Livius Abel: (He briefly turns around to look at Aexus struggling behind him) *under his breath* Only the fittest survive…

Livius quickly accelerated away from Aexus and jumped through the Senkaimon to safety. Aexus cursed quietly as he saw it begin to slide downwards. The Cleaner was inches away from swallowing him up. Only a few metres to go. It looked like he wouldn’t make it. With one final push he propelled his body forwards…







The two Captains were back in Seireitei outside of the 4th Division barracks. Livius looked down pitifully at Aexus who was sprawled face down on the ground.

Livius Abel: Tch! Where is your haori Captain Gingumaru? You’re a mess.

Aexus Gingumaru: *his voice is muffled* The Cleaner got it… and my sandal as well. (He lifts his sandal-less foot and wiggles his toes)

Livius Abel: (His eye twitches in annoyance) You are a disgrace. (He walks off irritated)

Aexus lazily picked himself up from the floor and sauntered into the barracks to get patched up. Meanwhile Livius was walking towards his own 11th Division barracks to think about what had occurred earlier on. It was on his way there that he noticed the bodies of Captain Karyuudo and his Lieutenant Dharius lying motionless on the ground. He could feel no reiatsu coming from either of them.

Livius Abel: (He walks over to Karyuudo’s unmoving body, completely ignoring the Lieutenant, and examines it further, but could still sense no reiatsu; he inspects even more and notices shallow breathing coming from Karyuudo’s nose) Hmph, I can’t believe he lost to them… what trash, there’s nothing to take from him either.

Livius, having found nothing interesting, disregarded them and walked onwards to his barracks.




Back at the 4th Division barracks, Aexus had been through the initial healing process; his torso, chest, both arms and his neck were all wrapped up in bandages.

Aexus Gingumaru: So where are the other Captains?

4th Division member: You were the first to arrive, so I assume they are still coming.

Aexus Gingumaru: And my condition?

4th Division member: You’ll be back to normal in several days Captain Gingumaru.

Aexus Gingumaru: So no permanent damage then?

4th Division member: No, although you’ll have a heavy scar across your chest. Whatever or whoever caused that, almost pierced your heart. You’re lucky. (She beams back it Aexus and then leaves his room)

Aexus Gingumaru: Ah, so she left me with a nice parting gift did she? Where are my manners, I didn’t even give her anything in return. (He chuckles to himself then gazes out of the window) I wonder how everyone else got on?

Nice post, Ryuu!

[Final Cut]

Akumu watched as blood began spilling from Yani's wound, the soil beneath him not being able to absorb the liquid quick enough and causing a foul, red puddle to begin pooling around him. She placed a hand against her own wound, noticing how futile the effort was as her own blood began to seep between her fingers. She could also feel the pain beginning to lance through her abdomen as she began to pant, the exhaustion from the loss of blood starting to catch up with her. She knew the wound was not a mortal one, for her at least. If he did not get medical treatment with the hour he wound bleed out and spend the rest of his existence feeding the forest.

Akumu finally could not take the pain any more, so she dragged her eyes away from her slowly dying opponent and sealed her zanpakuto, an instant relief filling her as the wounds in the her stomach and shoulder healed.

Yani:....(His breathing was incredibly heavy and ragged, but her still held himself up right so he could keep an eye on Akumu) So....our fight.....(His voice mumbled a little out of growing weakness) ...predetermined?

Akumu: (Behind her mask her face was laced with a slight smile) Yes. Each and every one of you who was foolish enough to walk though that zenkaimon was placed with a Juzo Hosho opponent that was the appropriate match for that specific person's zanpakuto and fighting style.

Yani: (His ragged breathing still interrupted his own speech but it still looked like her was just trying to get his breath back) I thought....Juzo Hosho...would have....honour than that.

Akumu: (His increasing resistance to just die was starting to irritate her) War and battle are not honourable. No matter how you may wish it to be, the fact remains that the side who fights "honourably" will lose. (She walked over to Yani and knelt before him) Do you know why I was chosen to be your opponent? (She chuckled to herself a little) Hehehe, no you won't will you. Well if you think about it it makes sense. My zanpakuto near enough able to make your crystal armour obsolete and my skill with kido can render our physical attacks fruitless as well.

Yani: (His head rose in an effort to meet her eyes. His breathing had finally settled down.) You have dishonoured the very meaning of being a Soul Reaper. To think a nation such as yourselves would resort to such tactics both angers and saddens me. (Then suddenly punched Akumu square in the jaw, the shear surprise of the manoeuvre sending her onto her rear end.) I will put an end to you right here and now to prevent you from using the same cowardly action against any of my fellow captains.

In the next instant, Akumu found herself rolling to her left in an effort to evade an oncoming Sokatsui and then on instinct more than skill she blocked Yani's spear with both her blades while still on one knee, putting as much force behind the blades as she could to try and withstand the force behind Yani's spear even though he was using one arm. He kept forcing his zanpakuto down against Akumu, blood still seeping from his wound in his abdomen. However, Akumu unleashed a sudden surge of strength against Yani forcing his spear up and away from her. She then pushed forward with as much force as she could muster, her blade sliding down the underneath of the spear shaft. Yani was prepared for move this time and kicked out at Akumu when she came within range, causing her to leap to the side, removing her blades from the spear shaft.

Akumu: (She looked at Yani in a different light after that one move) Your an observant one aren't you. You've only seen me use that same move once before and you thought up a counter instantly.

Yani: (He took a few steps forward and brought his spear down again before responding to her) Any half sane warrior would not fall for the same trick twice.

Akumu rapidly sidestepped the oncoming strike whereupon she rushed forward and slashed downwards with her right blade at Yani who instinctively sidestepped to her left briefly forgetting she had two swords and leant back to avoid the oncoming swipe that Akumu sent in his direction, which had the adverse effect of putting more stress on his stomach wound. As he staggered backwards having inadvertently lost balance due to the swift attack, Akumu kicked him square in the gut, right over the open wound. He yelled out in pain and not long after he hit the floor.

At that moment crackling began to ensue from his earpiece before the message from Captain Geißt came to life. Akumu knew that he was receiving a message.

After little more than a half a minute of explanation, Yani rose slowly, with an unnerving smile on his face. the smile of a man who now had confidence.

Yani: Well Captain Shimo, I'm going to have to cut our little battle short, I won't be here much longer.

Akumu: (She knew exactly what he was going on about) Damn it!

She flash stepped at Yani as she lost all focus on her technique in her desperation to stop Yani. She savagely kept striking away at Yani, hoping to make contact but instead he dodged all but one of the oncoming strikes. His spear surged upwards to block her zanpakuto swing. At that moment a bright gateway opened behind Yani.

Yani: (He gave her a emotionless smile) Well I will be leaving you now Akumu Shimo. When we meet again I assure you that it will not go in your favour.

Akumu: (Yani withdrew his zanpakuto and turned to leave as quickly as he could) [Inner Monologue] Shit! I can't let him escape. Either I move now, or that piece of shinigami slime will just heal and come back stronger than ever (She span in a swift pirouette, somehow closing the distance on Yani with that one manoeuvre) Well I've already broken your arm (She swung upwards with her stronger right arm) so why don't I just take it?!

Her blade sliced straight through Yani's broken left arm, blood spilled from his shoulder from where his arm used to be attached and the arm fell with a dull thud, blood pouring from the end of it as the remaining nerve signals told the arteries to pump blood.

Yani tumbled into the gateway and it closed behind him and it disappeared from view. Akumu then took off her mask and wiped her face with the clean part of her left sleeve after sheathing her blades.

Akumu: (She looked down at the arm, her red eyes lighting up in fury) PIECE OF SHIT! (She fired off a shakkaho at Yani's arm, causing the flesh to turn to ash before her eyes. She then spat on the pile of ashes in contempt of Yani and herself for not finishing him off.) At least the forest gets to feed on something.

And with that she returned to Mujūryoku Seiiki, as angry as a person could be for her failure.

[Blackened Sight]

Majo's eyes struggled to stay open, the pain caused from the slash her back took from Kyobo's axe was making her want to pass out. Her zanpakuto was held loosely in her right hand while her left was tying to feel the wound to see how serious it was. Tears of pain, ran from her eyes as she gasped from the slowly increasing shock that was starting to rack her body.

Kyobo stood tall behind her, his wounds forgotten as he watched the captain in front of him struggle. In his head however, his emotions were in turmoil. He felt waves of anger and annoyance surge through his being at Majo's show of defiance in refusing to give up and at the same time his sense of honour and his own thoughts on violence began to sicken him at the realisation of what he was doing to the person in front of him. However he maintained a cold, hard stare and raised his blade again with the intent to finish the job.

Kyobo: (He sighed. His eyes showing a deep sadness) I should have spared you the suffering when I had the chance. Now you are suffering in agony because you would not heed my warning so I will end it here for you to spare you any further pain.

As his axe came down he was surprised to feel a sharp jarring pain run through his arm.

Majo: (She had turned over quickly, being able to sense the oncoming impact. Her teeth were gritted in fury at his words) I don't think so!

Majo kicked out at Kyobo with her ever dwindling strength, hitting him in the lower half of his abdomen sending him backwards as he clutched the hit area in pain. Majo got off her back as quickly as her battered body would allow and tried charging down Kyobo ignoring the pain that lanced throughout her body every time she took a step. As she thrust her blade forward Kyobo stood up and took the blade through his right arm, but again the expected grimace of pain never crossed his face. As she tried to pull away Kyobo latched onto her sword arm and held her in place with his right arm and he quickly turned his axe around to have the handle facing amjo's right side and began to mercilessly hammer away at her, the sound of her ribs cracking under each impact was near enough sickening, he also started lower the height of the strikes, striking her above the hip a few times before releasing her and watching her crumple and fall to her right, cough up a rather disturbing amount of blood.

Kyobo: (He looked down at her) Do you understand why I was chosen to be your opponent. (He placed his axe head down onto the dusty earth) It was quite simple really. One of our Captains gathered information on every single one of our zanpakuto and from the acquired data the appropriate choice was made in who should face who. (He laughed bitterly) Hah, I was chosen as my zanpakuto can neutralise the effects of yours and my skill alone would be enough to outclass your own petty efforts of fighting back. I said you were outmatched from the start, did I not? Now you know why.

Majo: (She was stunned at this sudden revelation, although while she was listening to him with one ear, in the other buzzed a familiar voice, giving her renewed hope in her plight. However this renewed her hope for survival rather than her hope of victory) I'm...(she coughed up more blood)...shocked that you could pull of such a feat. We underestimated you. A mistake I will not make again.

Kyobo: You seem to think you still have a chance of beating me. I must deter your thoughts about continuing to fight what is already lost to you. I'm not asking for your surrender this time (His eyes showed nothing but coldness) I'm asking you to die quietly.

Majo: (She leapt to her feet filled with renewed vigour) That will never happen! I will survive this, Kyobo! Just watch!

She brought her blade down meeting the rock hard defence of Kyobo as he brought his axe up, blocking with the flat of the blade. He pushed her back and side stepped a Shakkaho that she fired off at him. She then shunpoed behind him, but much slower than she had been, using her chain to wrap his free right arm and she pulled it as hard as she could, spinning him around into her knee. It caught him just below his chest, driving the air from his lungs. She jumped over him, blood beginning to drip from the side of her mouth as she then pulled the chain over her shoulder, hoping to dislocate his arm. However she was met with a fierce resistance and Kyobo pulled her back towards his back and span to his left, driving his left elbow in the left of her ribs, damaging the other side. He then pushed her away from him spinning in the opposite direction and swung his axe just as Majo turned back to face him.

Blood hit the floor. A scream rent the air and Kyobo released the chain and his axe and fell to his knees.

Kyobo's swing had come across the front of her face at eye level, completely destroying both of her eyes, large gashes being where they once were. As he sat there, in horror of what he did, the Senkaimon opened behind Majo and she walked over to it instinctively. Disappearing from view. she left behind a stunned and distraught Kyobo who ripped off his mask and placed a dirty, bloody hand over his eyes, trying to stem the tears that began to flow.

[Arigatou! Enjoyable Fight - The Basis of Destruction]

'You got that right, infidel! Now is the time for you to learn why you don't mess with me. This is where it all goes wrong for you - I'll show you why you aren't faster than me!'

[Start Music]

In a moment, his blade had deactivated, and Shen saw an opening. Darting forwards quickly, he attempted a cutting strike with one blade and a sweeping strike with the other.

'Kiwamaru: Mantra No Zenkai!'

A blast swallowed them both up, as Jisano's reiatsu rocket upwards, outclassing the feeling it had before. Shen wasn't sure what had happened, but he knew something had changed. In the narrow space of time he had allowed the Ukira, Jisano had reactivated his Shikai and dodged both attacks, parrying them and making his own attack. Shen barely even had time to blink.

'You fool! Did you really think I would allow you such an opening? It should have been obvious that it was a trap. What the hell did they teach you at your Academy? To dodge flower petals? Wooden sticks? What a bunch of fools...'

'Don't insult my Academy! At least they didn't teach us that it was okay to take things away from others... That's exactly what you Juzo Hosho are doing!'

'It's your own fault... You don't want to follow the rules that were set for all Soul Reaper Nations, then don't complain when it comes back to bite you in the ass! What makes the Gotei 13 so special that you get ignore the rules that the other Nations have to follow?' Jisano snarled back, an unsympathetic look on his angry face.

'What do you mean? Why should those rules exist in the first place? There is no place for them. We don't require them. All we needed was assistance and we got it. I don't see why it is such a big deal.'

'I'm not further bandying words with you, Shinigami Captain... It is quite clear you don't understand... It's okay... You'll be going to your grave soon enough...'

Jisano came at him again. It was hard to keep up now. Somehow, he was managing to keep up and even surpass Shen's superior speed, yet, he was still just as strong as he had been before he deactivated his Shikai and reactivated it. He didn't have the lacking in destructive as he had when he had used the Mantra ability he bragged about.

Is it possible that he can combine the effectiveness of both abilities into one? Probably. I can't rule it out. Damn. I'm going to have to be on my guard. This guy just won't give in...

Shen's pink-handled blade was quick, but not quite quick enough and he scored a gash down his side. He dodged another swing from Jisano's blade and jumped backwards, shunpoing for extra speed. It was still only just enough and Shen found himself fighting just to keep from being hit. Jisano's blade was like a windmill, flurrying so quickly, there was barely ever enough time to dodge, though Shen seemed to only just to be able to pull it off.

'Quick, little insect, aren't you!!!'

Jisano came again, this time spinning and pirouetting, as he moved even faster than before and Shen found himself slipping, as his was battered and bashed, until he finally he was forcibly flung backwards and came to rest on his back, under one of the trees. He breathed hard, knowing that he was finally losing it - he was going to be unable to defend himself soon. He'd need to come up with a better strategy and push his body even further, but there wasn't enough time to think up a plan... The guy just kept coming and coming. Shen leapt up, narrowly avoiding the blade thrusting towards his head and, instead, took it through his shoulder, the uninjured one. He stood, feeling deflated and stared Jisano down, knowing that the fight was almost over. Jisano seemed to wait for him, suddenly staring off into the distance, looking as though he had sensed something. It was as good a chance as any and Shen took it most willingly, shunpoing with as much speed as he could muster and thrust one blade into Jisano's chest and slashed him with the other. The thrust barely even drew blood and the second blade did nothing. No mark, nothing. Shen stared in silence, as the man didn't even look at him.

'It's time... Just a second longer...'

Strange words as they were, Shen had no time to ponder them, as Jisano suddenly moved, pushing his Zanpakuto into the ground. A split second later, which felt more like nanoseconds, Jisano's hand was pushing Shen's head into the dirt and he was completely crushed. He couldn't move. He just stared limply at Jisano.

'Fine... Then... Just... Kill... Me...' Shen forced out, unable to even think. Jisano's cold, blue eyes seemed to even pierce his soul.

'Unfortunately for me and fortunately for you, your ride is here... What shall we do about this? I can keep you here and make you miss it. Then your comrades we never see you again... Or, I could let you go and maybe I'll get to see that Bankai you refused to use. Whatever shall I do, Shinigami?'

'Screw... You...'

'Shut your mouth! I think I might just end this now... I don't think your Bankai would be worth seeing, anyway...'

Jisano lunged at the fallen Shinigami. Shen saw the predicament and used all of his remaining energy, parrying the man's arm away with his blade, kicking him backwards and then lunged towards the Senkaimon... He disappeared through it just before the Juzo Hosho Captain managed to get to him.

'Dammit! You sneaky bastard! Next time I see you, I'm going to force that pathetic Bankai out of you!!!'

[End Music]

Jisano sat down on the ground and pondered a moment. He had worked out all of his opponent's weaknesses and tactics... This would make an interesting report for when he eventually got back to Ukira Rakuen. He could at least add a few details that had been missed about the Captain. Even so, he had failed. He had not been able to kill his opponent, nor take his spirit energy away from him. He would have to atone for it when he got back. He would spend a week training himself, while surviving only on the basics... That would give him time to figure out what had happened, what had gone wrong and why he hadn't been able to capture the Shinigami before he disappeared into that Senkaimon.

What a dilemma... I can't believe I actually failed to destroy him... What a pain... I bet Akihiko will be disappointed with my abilities... And I can bet that bastard Yushi Kenronri will find a way to insult me about this, unless he fails, too... CURSE IT!!! I HAD HIM! And, I failed... Next time... Next time I get to battle one of those Shinigami, I'll show them! I'll slaughter every last ONE OF THEM!!!

He stood up and flared his reiatsu angrily. Then sat back down and waited.

Re-read mine and the others' posts. You'll see that the Senkaimon opened and allowed for the Gotei 13 to escape, not the Juzo Hosho. The Juzo Hosho had ordered to remain and deal with their opponent. There was no plan to have them exit beforehand. Edit, please. And please read everyone's post, otherwise mistakes like this will persist.

Well, since Link won't be able to post, I suppose I'll finish the fight.

[Fear of Fear and Sick to Death of Death]

Tomoyo watched as mirrors erected themselves around Akarui, absorbing the blows altogether and preventing the spires from skewering her body. With most of the attack absorbed, she was able to evade the rest with skillful movement, dancing across the water while quickly closing in on Tomoyo, moving at top speed with both of her swords held up. Tomoyo held her sword up and took a deep breath before side stepping in the exact moment that Akarui reached her, pressing the flat side of her broken nodachi to the hilt of one of Akarui’s swords, forcing the blades to miss their mark. Akarui skidded across the water for several feet as she turned around and she chanted all the while, summoning kido. The yellow streak of Raikohou flew toward Tomoyo like a deadly blast from Mother Nature, shaking the air as it moved. Tomoyo raised her nodachi and it return to the form of a staff just as the Raikohou connected with the wide end of Tomoyo’s staff. A magic circle appeared in front of the staff and the lightning bolt was easily deflected, flying back toward Akarui, only to be intercepted by another mirror that appeared once more.

Akarui and Tomoyo stared across toward each other for a long moment to rest, Akarui panting heavily with a low stance. Tomoyo’s sad expression had yet to change, remaining both pensive, like a bottomless pool, and distressed.

“…Stay your arms, Captain Kyosho. At this rate, you’ll collapse before the battle is over and your fate will not change.”

“You can’t fool me.” Akarui growled, completely ignoring Tomoyo’s words of mercy. “You were meant to be my opponent from the start, which means you had a plan to finish me all along. You probably intended to tire me out from the beginning anyways by constantly healing yourself during the battle.”

“If anything were to happen, I could just as easily heal you. But if you continue to squander your spiritual energy with this meaningless opposition, it will become harder to restore your body to its original state in time to stabilize your life.”

“Is that so…? Then your healing is basically just fast acting Kaido, right? Heh. In that case, I can think of one way to handle this.”

Another mirror erected itself beside Akarui and she placed a hand on it. Tomoyo’s eyes narrowed slightly as spiritual pressure began to exude recklessly from the captain, feeding into the mirror directly.

Tomoyo had seen enough of Akarui’s ability first hand to figure out what she was planning. If you fed that much spiritual pressure into a medium that was designed to simply absorbed attacks and convert them into its own attack, only one result was plausible; destruction.

“If you act that recklessly, you’ll end up catching yourself in the blast.” Tomoyo warned. “And you won’t have the energy to fight on after taking that heavy a blow. How are you sure it will defeat me as well?”

“I don’t.” Akarui replied immediately with a defiant smirk. “But it doesn’t need to. This is an omnidirectional attack that will strike everything nearby, including you. But even if it doesn’t kill you right away, the follow-up attack will.”

The glass shards expanding after entering the body. Tomoyo remembered how she had survived the last time with her instantaneous regeneration. But that method would be useless against the attack if it hit her heart or brain, where it would be an instantaneous kill once the shards expanded.

“But you’ll leave yourself lying here nearly dead.” Tomoyo’s brow furrowed. She wasn’t concerned about her own well-being—she could find a way to survive. She was more concerned about the enemy whose life she desperately wished to spare. “Your allies should be attempting to create a Senkaimon to grant your respite. Have you no intention to stall?”

“Stalling won’t end well.” Akarui’s smirk didn’t fade even as her strength began to fade. “You’re the one who messed up the gates to begin with, aren’t you? With your kido abilities, you’ll probably be able to do something to the Senkaimon again if it appears nearby. I plan to kill you before that happens.”

And so she would sacrifice herself to ensure the safety of the others. Was this self-sacrifice the noble sort Tomoyo had heard of? She’d only seen death as a cruel and undeniable fate that took loved ones away from those who care, and was a direct result of war. Was it possible for there to be some sort of glory in death that could be respected?

“We’re going to hell, Captain Daidōji—no, ‘Priestess’. You’d better make any last minute prayers.”

With that, Akarui slammed the hilt of her sword into the mirror. Cracks formed over it and light shone through the cracks, as if the pent up energy was already yearning to free itself from the pressure. With a loud shattering noise, the glass shattered and multi-colored light filled the air. The entire water-filled canyon was lit up as the water reflected the light, sending a kaleidoscope of colors in every direction.

But then it was all gone.

The light, the sound, the energy—it was all abruptly gone, only showing signs of being sucked into one small area, concentrated and condensed into a physical object. Akarui, who had braced herself for the impact, could only stare as her grand attack was foiled at the last minute.

All the light had been absorbed right into Tomoyo’s left arm. She had dropped her staff and was now pressing one hand to her left forearm, which was visible as she had drawn back the sleeves of her robes. Several bands of runes wrapped her arm like bandages sketched into her skin and her pale skin glowed slightly, likely from the energy it had absorbed.

Tomoyo’s face contorted slightly in pain as the air around her arm began to warp and distort. Then the sleeves fell loose, as if Tomoyo had dropped her arm suddenly. But Akarui knew better, just by looking at the pain in Tomoyo’s face and her panting.

She’d sealed her the energy in her arm and then sealed the arm, likely in some multi-dimensional barrier where the explosion could occur without harming anyone.

By sacrificing her arm, she’d saved both herself and Akarui from any damage.

“…W…Why?” Akarui demanded as her legs wobbled slightly. But she forced herself to remain standing gripping her swords in her two hands, ignoring the sweat running down her face. “You’d put yourself at a disadvantage just for this? That’s crazy!”

“I don’t mind hearing criticism for saving a life.” Tomoyo murmured wryly as he raised her remaining arm gently, pointing two fingers in Akarui’s direction. “You should be proud of yourself. Your strategy, misguided as it was, had a beneficial effect. I cannot take your spiritual pressure with only one hand. In other words, I cede this battle to you.”

Akarui’s teeth ground together as she heard those words. Was this woman giving up?

“As if I’d just let you back out now!” Akarui roared as she charged forward, her embarrassment blinding her actions. “If you won’t do anything, I’ll just kill you myself!”

“Marubori!”

Tomoyo swiped her fingers through the air, drawing several runes rapidly in the air, leaving behind a rainbow of several colors to highlight the marks she made. Akarui’s eyes widened as she ran headlong into a cloud like substance, stumbling right through it. When she came out, she seemed unharmed, but as she tried to shift her grip, her fingers were stiff and unmoving. She looked in time to see her hands turning to stone, losing their color and feeling.

Was Tomoyo…sealing her in stone?

“If you won’t cease fighting even when your assailant cannot and will not continue, you must be prepared to face harsh consequences.” Tomoyo murmured regretfully as she picked her staff up once more from beside her. “There are many ways to seal a person. If necessary, I can simply seal your movement indefinitely until I am able to take your spiritual pressure away properly.”

“By turning me to stone?!” Akarui demanded furiously as she struggled to move her hands. They’d been turned to stone up to her knuckles now and it was still creeping up her hands. How quickly would it go once it was past her arms? Would she stop breathing after it passed her lungs? Could she even be considered alive after being turned to stone, reversible or not? “This is beyond inhumane! I’d prefer to be killed! I’d sooner take my own life than be taken prisoner by you people! You’re oppressors! Slaves to an unjust law! Villains who’d take away our freedom!”

Tomoyo watched as Akarui struggled to move forward while holding up the extra weight of her half-stone hands, but stumbled under the extra weight. Her knees went into the water and her shoulders began to tremble. It was unsure whether the water streaming down her cheeks was from their environment or from her tears, but they reached Tomoyo. The priestess felt her resolve shaking as she witnessed this sight.

What was she fighting for, if she could not even prevent situations like these?

She was so shaken; she did not react in the slightest as a Senkaimon opened behind Akarui. The captain managed to crawl through the gate and kept her furious eyes on Tomoyo until the gates finally slid close, but the priestess could only look on with empty eyes as the Senkaimon faded away, leaving her alone. Any chance of interfering directly with the Senkaimon left with it, but she did not even think about that.

“‘I am as constant as the Northern Star, of who’d true fixed and resting quality, there is no fellow in the firmament’…It seems I shall never be like Grandmother. I may have mastered kido, but I shall forever be weak…”

[Everto! The Final Clash]

Kizumi didn't heed his words, instead he raised his reiatsu and fired more rounds, at an incredible rate. It didn't matter, though, they would never reach Yushi.

[Start Music]

'Stop this folly! It is quite clear that you aren't a match for me. I have given you many chances and you have given it your best, but you still can't hit me. What's the point in wasting all your energy, when you could just submit to me and give me your spiritual power and Zanpakuto? I'm actually being rather merciful, if you think about it.'

Kizumi snarled. 'Merciful? Bullshit! You're just claiming that, because you don't understand your actions are affecting us Shinigami. Rave all you like, but I won't stop until I defeat you. I can fire faster than this, anyway! I'll show you soon, if I don't hit you before then.'

'Don't understand? No, I'm afraid it is you that doesn't understand... You see, I know how it is affecting you and your people, I just don't care. Petty, little emotions simply are not something I indulge in. Besides, you and your people deserve it. If you don't want to play along with the rules, then don't play at all. It's that simple. But, this is a waste of words... You keep talking, but never say anything of worth. Let your actions speak for you now.'

Yushi disappeared again, blinking in and out of Kizumi's vision, in the space of nanoseconds. It was ridiculous, surely no-one should be able to move at such speeds. Nonetheless, Yushi did not stop, or run out of steam. If anything, he seemed to more even more fluently, as he dodged the exploding shells. Kizumi relented and shunpoed, appearing close to Yushi, right in front of him, as it happened. As he phased out of the shunpo, he fired as many rounds as possible, hoping to get Yushi with some of them. It was futile. Yushi just vanished again. This time Kizumi couldn't even keep up with him and lost sight of the Juzo Hosho Captain. He continued to keep an eye out and focused on keeping his senses active, just in case the other was close by.

Yushi appeared. 'Now you see me...'

Then disappeared again. 'Now you don't...' His voice faded off into the nothingness, as he vanished out of Kizumi's senses once again.

Dammit, how on earth am I supposed to damage this guy, if I can't even see him? I know, I'll try and capture him with a Bakudo, as soon as he appears again... His reappearance and teasing will lead to his demise...

Yushi did exactly that, but didn't move once he had appeared. He just stood there, watching Kizumi, with eyes like a hawk. 'I'm sick of dodging your rounds... It is pointless, dull and tedious... Instead, I shall inflict pain upon pain on you, until you submit to me, or die!'

'You're a sneaky bastard, but a bold one at that! Come on then!!!'

Yushi appeared to stay where he was, but Kizumi realised, foolishly, that the other man had tricked him and he fell backwards, clutching his stomach, where Yushi had punched him, but also felt a trickle of blood run down his forehead and over his eye. With his other hand, he wiped the blood from his eye and shunpoed, kicking at the Juzo Hosho Captain. Again, his movements were futile and he fell forwards, when Yushi faded into the sky around them. He caught himself and waited till he caught a glimpse of Yushi again. It worked, and he fired the strongest Hado he knew at the man, which was Bakudo No. 75, the Gochu Tekkan. It managed to catch him and they both fell to the ground, the chains of the Bakudo rattling and clinking.

'Ha! That's what you get for underestimating me! Scatter shell!!!' Suddenly thousands of rounds appeared to be fired out of his weapon, in the space of a few seconds. The whole area around the Gochu Tekkan was hit, and he heard sounds of pain come from within the Bakudo's perimeter.

'Exploding shells!!!' The area was hit again, as he fired a barrage of exploding shells, each one creating a mass explosion of shrapnel, fire and energy. Again, he thought he heard Yushi screaming in pain and almost danced for joy, as he realised that he had finally found the advantage, even if it had take a while to gain.

Yes! That's it!! I've got him now... All I have to do is use my final attack and he will be old news... If that somehow manages to fail, I'll at least still have Hado and my surprise attack to use on him... Oh well, I doubt he could avoided that, without some damage at least!

That's why it was such a surprise when he felt the other man's reiatsu take a violent pitch upwards. Kizumi frowned, a look of confusion upon his face. Surely, the man couldn't have avoided the shells one by one... Or was Kizumi THAT below the other's power level.

'That gormless look on your face just gives it away... Of course I avoided them, you fool... Oh, I simply can't help but mock you when you do such foolish things... That's only way I can gain some sort of satisfaction by conversing with you...'

Following the remark, the Bakudo exploded violently and pieces of chain, metal and pillar were flung all over the battlefield, one even managing to whirr right past his ear. Ridiculous!

'But, honestly, how long did you think a Bakudo of such a low level would keep me at bay? I may not have the strongest reiatsu of the Juzo Hosho, but it certainly outclasses that of any of the Gotei 13... You are seriously pathetic... I'm going to have to put you out of your misery, before you get too cocky!!!'

'Shut up!!! Final Shot: Armageddon!'

The whole battlefield exploded, as Kizumi's final attack hit... Of course, he thought he saw Yushi take the attack, but wasn't sure if it was a afterimage, or the man actually being hit by his attack. Either way, the battlefield was history, so he shunpoed away, finding an area that was not damaged by all of the attacks made by them.

'It's not that easy... You just don't seem to get it, do you? No matter how fast you fire each shot, I can feel each and every one. Why? Because... My Shikai isn't designed to make me fast... I'm already faster than you, just with my own base speed... While it is true that my Shikai upgrades my speed by small amount, it's main effect is simply my expert reishi and spiritual matter sensing... I can feel each of your shells, because they are comprised of your own signature spiritual energy... As long as your shells contain that signature energy, you will never hit me. That is why I was the perfect enemy for you to face... Or rather, why you were the perfect enemy for me to face... Because I will always win against you, no matter what you do. I can see your every movement and every path that movement will take... It is over... You have lost!'

'No!!! I will NOT lose! Secret Shell: Exploding Partisans!!!'

Again, his weapon seemed to dance and Kizumi continued to fire and fire, as everywhere exploded and at an incredible rate. Surely, even with Yushi's special ability, he would not be able to avoid this one... There was nowhere for him to go, even if he could see every movement. The whole battlefield was being struck and, unlike Armageddon, this was actively occurring at incredible speeds, probably even faster than Yushi could move. Armageddon was a strong attack, but took a while to actually explode and hit, which had allowed Yushi to escape easily... However, Kizumi was confident this time, that he would have done damage to Yushi.

BOOM! The final explosion receded and Yushi came into view again. He was alive. Kizumi's heart seemed to chill, as he realised that Yushi wasn't particularly damaged, it was mostly superficial. Any opponent should be almost dead after such an assault.

'Curious, are you?'

Kizumi nodded, unable to talk.

'I was hit by the first ones... I admit, that was brilliant... The first few shells of that attack actually managed to hit me, they were as fast as me and I had nowhere to move to... But, only the first ones hit me, the rest I managed to dodge, because I studied the patterns and moved exactly as I needed to. It was extra-ordinary, but you actually gave me surprise. But, this is where your surprises end and mine begin... I'm not letting you in with any more hits. Thousand Ninja Strike!!!'

Yushi disappeared, leaving several afterimages behind him, then appeared in front of Kizumi and made a strike at him. Kizumi shunpoed, dodging the other and went to fire, but was shocked when he was hit from behind and fell to the ground, as he moved back up to the air, he was hit again and again, until he almost lost consciousness, from the amazingly swift, powerful strikes that Yushi was making.

'How...?' Kizumi replied, as his chest suddenly burst into ribbons of blood and his arms, legs and face felt like butchered meat.

'A thousand strikes... You are dead, now. Nobody has ever survived this attack before and I've fought people with more reiatsu than you've ever released during this fight. You're finished. You fought valiantly, yes, but that is no more than a memory, now. Rest in peace, Shinigami Captain.'

Then, as a final token of respect, though Yushi wasn't normally the type to show such trivial gestures, he made a final, sweeping strike, which cut into Kizumi's chest and heart, splattering blood everywhere and leaving a puddle beneath the Shinigami, as he fell to the ground.

[End Music]

'D-damn y-y-you... T-this w-w-was... N-not how i-it was... S-s-supposed to end...'

Then, he eyes closed and he faded into dust and spiritual particles. Ironically, as he died, the Senkaimon for him showed up, lingered for a few moments, then grudgingly disappeared.

Damn... That was a good fight. Those Shinigami have incredible resolve, even if their fighting is pretty shabby and nothing special... Bastard just wouldn't give in, even when it was obvious that he was no match for me...

[Banished from the Shadows]

(The subtle shuffling of feet echo throughout the grand assembly chamber, as the captains subsequently assume positions. Personalities manage to pierce the silence of the moment, as the obedient become statues and the obstinate shuffle their focus. As the door glides shut, the entire room directs its attention to the dimly lit seat of their head-captain. The chair for which the head-captain resides is shrouded in darkness, only to be faintly silhouetted with a soft blue hue, from the floor lighting. )

Head-Captain Umemoto: (the rhythmic tapping of fingers can be heard strumming against the arm of the chair, but the head-captain does not speak.)

Captain Shimo: (She clears her throat, preparing to speak, but is immediately halted by his head-captain’s voice)


Head-Captain Umemoto: You dare speak first, without so much as an acknowledgment from your head-captain? Do the most revered soul reapers in Ukishima Rakuen need to be reeducated on appropriate etiquette when amongst their superiors? I find it baffling, your lack of grace, Captain Shimo. Silence your tongue, for I will be the first to speak.

Captain Shimo: (She lowers her head, her body noticeably shaken, but the root is unclear, whether it is fear or anger).

Head-Captain Umemoto: I find your efforts appalling. I send the 13 sentry, the so-called “Superior 13,” to complete a mission of great significance and you barely managed to injure the captains of the Gotei 13. Do you understand the ramifications for failure, especially considering their eyes are almost everywhere? This was a brilliant plan, due to the efforts of Captain Daidoji and Captain Akihiko. Not only were the captains successfully separated, but you have detailed information regarding their zanpakuto and fighting style, due to Captain Anenokoji. Was her information flawed? Well, speak-up, Captain Anenokoji. Did you deliver information that was ineffective at countering the captains’ efforts?

Captain Anenokoji: All the data I had collected was accurate and….


Head-Captain Umemoto: IT WAS TRASH!


Captain Anenokoji: (Her eyes switch as the head-captain insults her efforts)


Head-Captain Umemoto: It obviously wasn’t enough, otherwise every one of you should have been successful.

Captain Anenokoji: We likely would have been if Captain Daidoji’s efforts hadn’t been so easily thwarted….


Captain Daidoji: It is true, the Gotei 13 managed to bypass my kido, by resetting the precipice world, shattering the constraints placed upon the Senkaimon.

Captain Shimo: You’re pathetic…(she whispers).


Captain Daidoji: (Her head tilts to her left, as she glances sorrowfully at Captain Shimo) Why do you speak ill-words under the protection of your breath?

Captain Shimo: I said you’re pathetic, which is a perfectly reasonable comment considering your kido was successfully eliminated.

Captain Daidoji: Kido is not absolute, I’m afraid, Captain Shimo. If you had more knowledge on the matter, you would understand this.

Captain Shimo: What?! Are you calling me stupid…


Head-Captain Umemoto: (She raises her spiritual pressure) Bite your tongue, or I will remove it, permanently, Captain Shimo! What a disgusting display of might. If they do not fear you by this point, they certainly pity you. To think, I left my chambers to listen to my captains’ bicker amongst themselves. How embarrassing! Amongst all your failures, there was some success. Would you two like to report?


Captain Seinosuke: Captain Karyuudo, of the 2nd division, has been successfully neutralized. He no longer poses a threat to the initiative.


Captain Kenronri: I completely obliterated 3rd division captain Kizumi Hakashi.


Head-Captain Umemoto: I suspected nothing less from either of you, to be honest, especially you, Akihiko. Those of noble blood typically conquer over those without.

Captain Meibatsu: (He snarls under his breath, as the head-captain praises his long-time friend)


Head-Captain Umemoto: (Her anger bellows as she unearths herself from her pseudo-throne. She flails her flowing garments as she walks down the stairs, separating her from the others. Her gaze locks onto Captain Meibatsu as her Reiatsu sky-rockets.) You dare scoff upon my speech? You who were merely a boy of rags before you were fortunate enough to be accepted into the academy. (She slowly approaches him, as her opulent garments and head-dress glisten amongst the shadows. Her decorative head-piece supports her once-luscious black-hair that is now lost its silky texture and requires frequent dying in order to sustain its raven-black appearance. Her ages skin peeks through her flowing robe as she points to him with disdain) I find your lack of sophistication repugnant. Not only do you lack that of pure blood, but you have little manners to speak of. And you have a penchant for disobeying authority, which was evident in your battle with that captain of the Gotei 13.

Captain Meibatsu: (He looks up at her defiantly, glaring into her eyes, of which are the only youthful organs remaining. He firmly maintains his stance, giving no indication of fear. However, his expression is washed over by a perplexing furrowing of the brow)

Head-Captain Umemoto: Of course you don’t know, signaled by your quizzical demeanor. I had Captain Anenokoji devise surveillance bots to follow each of you to your respective locations, which allowed me to observe your battles with ease. You dare defy my orders, especially when we’re all facing extinction?

Captain Meibatsu: HE WAS WEAK! I WAS NOT GOING TO FUCKING SIT THERE AND BATTLE SOMEONE AS WEAK AS HE! AND I REFUSE TO USE THAT DAMN DATA RECOVERED BY MY SNAKE OF A COMRADE CAPTAIN ANENOKOJI!

Captain Sodo: Jisano…shut your mouth and stand still (he whispers feverishly)


Captain Renoir: (She looks at Jisano, shaking her head in disgust)


Captain Seinosuke: (He looks at his friend, making eye-contact for a brief moment before he lowers his gaze. He watches as the Head-Captain reaches for into her robe, feeling powerless to stop what is about to transpire).


Head-Captain Umemoto: (Her eyes narrow as her body shakes with fury) You audacious bastard…


Captain Meibatsu: I…just mean that I wanted to find on equal footing.


Head-Captain Umemoto: (She quivering body ceases movement and she firmly and swiftly clutches her zanpakuto hilt and unsheaths it with tremendous speed) Dismantle… Torihazusu (The steel of her blade subsequently becomes energized and takes on a near appearance, as though it were no longer steel. Intricate, textured designs tattoo the blade as it begins to flicker, fading in and out of sight.) nenshō sanmiittai (She shouts out a peculiar phrase as she skillfully swings the blade horizontally).

Captain Meibatsu: (He raises his hand, instinctually, to clutch his blade, but his hand stiffens as though it were no longer his own. It continues to harden like stone and then begins to flicker, like that of her blade. As he stares in horror at his arm, it abruptly disintegrates, leaving behind no trace of ash or dust. Nothing but a neatly trimmed stub remains, as his entire left arm has been successfully annihilated.)


Captain Daidoji: (She stares in awe at the Head-Captains power and tyranny, glancing at Akihiko to gauge his expression) Inner-monologue: As suspected, he wields his sorrow silently, closeted behind his calm disposition.

Head-Captain Umemoto: (She sheathes her sword as her eyes briefly dart at Sumiko) Find a way to replace his arm. (Shadows cast over her eyes and her voice deepens as she speaks with a soft and eloquent fury, now directed at Jisano) Disobey me again and you will lose much more than your arm. Get out…all of you!

[Silent Grief]


(Captain Seinosuke calmly sifts through paperwork, quietly applying his signature. The serenity is soon disrupted upon the doors of his office thrusting open calamitously. The booming from Captain Shimo’s kick echoes throughout his office, as she struts in and plops herself in a comfy chair. She hoists her feet into the air, propping them on his desk. She stares at him curiously, a grin reaching into her cheeks).

Captain Shimo: Well, Aki?


Captain Seinosuke: (His concentration remains focused on signing each document, stubbornly neglecting to raise his eyes.) While your visits are welcome, it would be more appropriate if you contacted the manor first. It’s uncouth of a captain to simply galumph her way into a fellow captain’s office, without as much as a polite request. I suspect your parents instructed you better (his voice is shallow and soft, in sharp contrast to his words that pierce Akumu’s ears like knives).

Captain Shimo: (She anchors her upper lip in an effort to dramatically improve her scowl. She raises her head and releases an airy) Hmph…stop being so uptight for a while, it will do you good. And since when did I need to announce my presence? Don’t be ridiculous!

Captain Seinosuke: (His eyes raise from his work, slowly fixating on his cousin) Shouldn’t you be documenting your battle in a concise report?

Captain Shimo: That can wait! Even so, it isn’t like Captain-Commander doesn’t already know, as she was apparently watching our every move. No thanks to that snake-woman.

Captain Seinosuke: You’re so childish, relying on name-calling to illustrate your point.

Captain Shimo: Tsk…(She scoffs, leaning further in her chair) I think you’re in a bad mood considering what happened to Jisano. What a fool…

Captain Seinosuke: (He calmly pushes her feet from his desk and returns to his work) Don’t attempt to categorize me as some temperamental oaf. One can have a reaction and avoid flaunting it in a disgraceful manner, such as yourself.

Captain Shimo: (She jumps from her chair, slamming her fists into the desk and roaring at Akihiko) WHAT?! WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?! WHY ARE YOU SUCH A PRICK NOW-A-DAYS?! (Her face is abruptly glazed with a reflective expression, as she quickly takes notice to his accuracy. She sits back down, crossing her arms in defiance).

Captain Seinosuke: (He lifts his head, staring at Akumu) I don’t require grand displays of emotion in order to illustrate my point, nor do I need it to acknowledge my own interpretation of events. I’m quite skilled at understanding my own reactions, for which I equally understand the significance of reservation. You can’t simply spout your every thought, otherwise you’ll be on the receiving end of Head-Captain’s blade, like that of Captain Meibatsu.

Captain Shimo: Just say his name for fucks sake...A…KI..HI…KO (She emphasizes each syllable as she leans back in her chair, gazing out the window, her arms tightly constricting her mid-section).

Captain Seinosuke: (He delivers a sharp-eyed glare, intolerance etched in all corners of his expression) If Jisano plans on using his position as a captain to vocalize his more rebellious philosophies, who am I to stop him? I’m certain he was well-aware of the consequences.

Captain Shimo: I don’t think any of us were expecting her to respond in such a manner. It was more aggressive then I had ever seen…

Captain Seinosuke: Indeed. Perhaps, I should amend my earlier statement. Jisano, as gifted as he is, is too obdurate to predict such outcomes. While he is a skilled soul reaper, dominating his opponents with shear force, he has always lacked foresight. He never engages in the art of evaluation, but this time, I doubt any of us imagined an outcome of this magnitude.

Captain Shimo: …(She snickers, biting into a biscuit she retrieved from Akihiko’s desk. She chomps-down on her food, spewing crumbs as she mumbles her disgust with Jisano) I do…n’t know wh…y he’s all…owed to act that way. I mean, he is nothing special, who is he? He’s nothing! (She begins stuffing grapes in her mouth, as she continues to berate Jisano) If this guy had half a brain, he would have figured out, long ago, that you don’t act like a total jackass to authority. Yeah, okay, he is “rebellious,” but that doesn’t give him merit. If he wants to behave like some backstreet rebel, let him make his way down to the streets San'in.

Captain Seinosuke: (He stands and walks over to Akumu, clutching the food from her hand and placing it on the tray) If you plan on defaming Jisano, you may do it elsewhere. I will not stand idly by while you engage in this adolescent nonsense, especially about matters for which you know little. While Jisano is a self-proclaimed nonconformist, he is nothing of what you speak. It’s an unwise to speak that which you are not certain is true. If you were privy to the history of the Juzo Hosho, you would understand that Jisano is quite accomplished.

Captain Shimo: (She rolls her eyes, lifting herself from her chair and clutching the entire tray defiantly. She walks over to the window, slowly consuming the food while Akihiko continues to lecture her) I’m familiar with your accomplishments, but I can’t say anyone is familiar with his. He’s been in your shadow for quite some time, which likely drives him to behave like such a fool.

Captain Seinosuke: Bite that wicked tongue, Akumu (He shouts angrily, though with orotund.) As I said not a moment ago, if you plan on producing disparaging comments toward Jisano, my friend, you are in the wrong space. If you don’t comply, I will simply make you (His gaze is determined to intimidate her)

Captain Shimo: (Her eyes are downcast, as she slips a grape between her lips. Her silence is more than enough to argue compliance).

Captain Seinosuke: Jisano can be crude, but like myself, he was one of the youngest in academy history to achieve Bankai.

Captain Shimo: (Her eyes staging upward, delivering a bleak glare) Liar.

Captain Seinosuke: Don’t be absurd. While he lacks the concentration and discipline I had instilled in me by my parents, both of which were highly respected and accomplished soul reapers, he acquired a unique trait allowing him to thrive in situations of which are unpredictable.

Captain Shimo: That sounds like a lot of bullshit to me.

Captain Seinosuke: It’s nothing of the sort, as it is true. While I go to battle well-prepared and use my perceptions to decipher my opponents weaknesses and strengths, he utilizes his instincts to counter the enemies strategies in a way I never can. We’re victorious for different reasons. He relies on more primal instincts, which are complimentary to his brute strength in battle. My personality does not suit this, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have merit. Though, I agree, he could rely on it less, as it has its flaws. He is, without a doubt, a superb warrior and soul-reaper. He is far more powerful than he lets on, which is why your defamatory remarks are unwise. Don’t let your tongue speak before your brain informs it, it’s unbecoming of a captain.

Captain Shimo: JISANO DOES IT ALL THE TIME AND I DON’T SEE YOU HOUNDING HIM! (She tosses the tray angrily on his desk, stomping her way to the door, as though they were children on the playground)

Captain Seinosuke: (He places his hand on his desk and stares into the grain, focusing on the fine craftsmanship) It’s true (He speaks with a dull sadness, as he resumes his work at his desk). Despite all his strengths and accomplishments, he struggles to quiet his mind. He has something to prove and he doesn’t believe it will be accomplished by fighting opponents he assumes are weak. It’s that simple. Unfortunately, that striving will only place him in a more precarious predicament with authority. He needs to calm his mind and steady his words, otherwise I fear the outcome in the future. While he respects me, on some level, he despises me. It is that disdain, though minute, that prevents him from accepting my advice. You, on the other hand, welcome my advice, despite your dogmatic presentation. Isn’t that right?

Captain Shimo: (She turns to look at Akihiko, not speaking a word. She remains silent for a moment before clutching the door handle and closing it as she leaves the room. She whispers softly) I suppose you’re right…(As she proceeds through Seinosuke manor, she realizes that for the first time, in a long time, Akihiko was angered by something.) That bastard, Jisano, he truly has the friendship and support of Akihiko, and yet, he doesn’t utilize it.

[A Lament]

Around Kyobo, the hustle and bustle of life was just sounds off in the distance. He was sitting in the corner of a local café that was not far from his noble household. He resigned himself to drinking his tea in silence in the darkest corner of the café he could find, not meeting eyes with anyone apart from the waitress who wore a wide, fake smile. Kyobo was rather curt in his answers.

Waitress: (She placed the café menu in front of his downcast eyes, beaming as widely as she could) Would sir care to order anything from the menu or is sir fine with his tea?

Kyobo: (His answer was curt and blunt) Just some more tea and also a bottle of sake.

Waitress: (She forced a bow, her disdain for her job rather obvious by this point) Right away sir.

He looked out of the window on his left, watching the countless souls of Ukishima Rakuen go about their lives, children playing together, adults chatting and bartering and all seemed outwardly happy and cheerful. Kyobo resented that ability to be truly happy. He has not been truly happy for years. His tea and the bottle of sake he ordered arrived not long after he looked out of the window. He gave the waitress a short smile to which she bowed and left him to himself.

Kyobo: (He turned to the pile of papers to his right, countless reports, requests and written apologies he had to sign, sift through and work on, including the report on his encounter with Majo Shin. He sighed heavily before taking the first load and placing them out on the table) At least there is something duller than my own problems…

Kyobo’s head did not rise as the door of the café swung inwards, the bell ringing with its same high pitched tinkle. He noticed out of the corner of his eye that the waitress sped over to greet the new customer but quickly ignored it, continuing on with his paperwork. He then heard a familiar voice from his right.

Sumiko: Fancy seeing you here Kyobo. (She plonked herself down opposite him, noticing with some annoyance that he still did not look at her) Hey Kyobo, would you look up at me please? It is quite unnerving for me to have you ignore me.

Kyobo: (He raised his head which still sported some of the injuries from his battle, however unlike usual his eyes and smile seemed weak and tired) Sorry Sumiko, I was just working….

Sumiko: (She yanked his pen from his grasp and started examining it before placing it behind her right ear. She placed her hands together and rested them on the table, looking into Kyobo’s eyes as she did) You’re still using that pen I gave you then?

Kyobo: (He picked up his tea and had a sip and placed it down slowly in front of him) Yes I do. (He held out his hand) So can I have it back so I can carry on working?

Sumiko: (She placed her right index finger against her chin in an obvious thinking pose) Hmmm….I think my answer will be…no, I won’t. (Before Kyobo could respond she kept talking) Because Kyobo, whatever you’ve got playing on your mind you need to let out to the world otherwise you’re going to flip out at some point.

Kyobo: (Kyobo’s fingers on his left hand repeated tapped the table in a synchronised rhythm) Sumiko stop acting so childish and hand me back my pen, I need to work as do you.
Sumiko: (She crossed her arms, her expression changing to shear annoyance) Ha, let Jisano stew in his own juices. This is the best lesson he can get, you don’t mess with the head captain. (She softened her expression) You on the other hand Kyobo, need to relax. To see you this irritable is worrying.

Kyobo: (Kyobo took proper notice of her expression and relaxed, sitting back in his seat and grabbed and chugged the rest of his tea) I’ve been rough recently Sumiko. I’ve been having bad nights, filled with the same nightmare, the same fucking nightmare over and over again. I’ve been forced into more violent situations due to me being the “Captain of the Vanguard Unit” and now …(He slammed his fist into the table out of anger at himself, shocking Sumiko a little) I’ve gone and blinded a Captain of the Gotei 13 because I couldn’t keep myself under control!

Sumiko: (She waited for him to finish his outburst. Most of the café had their heads turned in the Captains’ direction however both Kyobo, who was now shivering from his outburst and Sumiko, who sat tapping the table with her left index finger looking at the ceiling, were both oblivious to this fact) Quite done?

Kyobo: (He grabbed the sake bottle, flipped the cap off and poured a rather large measure into his provided cup and necked the whole lot. He instantly seemed calmer) Yes….Well slightly.

Sumiko: (She looked to her left as the same waitress turned up bearing a tray for Sumiko which was placed rather ceremoniously in front of her) Ah here’s my order. (She then poured herself some of her tea before continuing her “conversation” with Kyobo) Well I haven’t exactly had it easy either Kyobo. I was under a lot of stress to get that information together, analyse the data, choose the best opponent and then find my efforts near wasted and trampled upon by our half crazed leader, so I might have gone a little overboard in my battle.

Kyobo: (He raised his eyebrow at her statement) You released your shikai?

Sumiko: (She looked out of the window, as if trying to avoid Kyobo’s eyes) I just wanted to see that captain’s Bankai so bad. I got too excited. I wanted to torture him into surrendering just to avoid killing him and I almost succeeded until their Squad 12 captain unravelled Tomoyo’s kido. My prize catch got away from me.

Kyobo: (He took another large gulp of sake, as if trying to quench a steadily building rage inside him) I told you to keep control of yourself countless times and it seems you still can’t keep yourself from trying to experiment on people. (His gaze forced her to make eye contact with him) And it was not to satisfy my own peaceful mind….

Sumiko: (She jumped in almost defensively, knowing the next words that were going to come out of his mouth) ….It was for my own safety, I know Kyobo. I just…

Kyobo: Lost your control? (He actually half-laughed to himself) Haha, seems like we’ve both done that today. (He answered Sumiko’s enquiring expression) During my fight with Miss Shin, I could feel that aggressive side of myself trying to resurface. In fact during that battle I think it did. I’ve tried to keep myself under control for so long….

Sumiko: (She finished his sentence) But its seeming harder to each day, right? (She took a sip of her still piping hot tea) We’re more alike than we care to realise.

Kyobo: (He swilled his sake in his bottle) That we are. (He poured himself some more sake, this time a more sensible measure. He then gestured to Sumiko to offer some which she refused) How about we get off this dull subject, I’d much rather not think about what happened nor the self-righteous swill that comes out of our leader’s mouth. (It was clear from that simple statement how much Kyobo detested the Head-Captain although this fact was well known by many of the captains) How did you little weapons turn out in the end? I’m intrigued to hear how those disks of yours performed.

Sumiko: (She gave Kyobo one last question) Are you sure your fine?

Kyobo: (He smiled slightly to her) As long as I’m talking to you I should be fine for a while longer.

Sumiko: (She smiled at his statement, before plopping her paperwork on the table as well and neatly placing a hand drawn blueprint onto the table) That’s good to hear Kyobo. Now this machine’s inner workings are quite complex…well at least for ordinary people, not genii like myself and you of course, having listened to me ramble on for so long I’m sure you’ve picked some of my terminology up. Now the flight mechanism is the beauty of this device, it utilises anti-gravity technology which….

Thus they started rambling on as usual but unknown to Sumiko, Kyobo’s mind was in more of a mess than he was letting on…….

Idealism vs. Realism

“Aaaarrrrgghhhh!”

A loud snap echoed through the air as a large oak tree was split cleanly in half by a single chopping swing from a thick claymore—a massive broad blade that’s power came from it’s unreasonable weight and momentum. The large century old oak tree had stood no chance against the frustrated back swing that came from Elizabeth Renoir’s momentary loss of composure.

She was in a small, but dense, cluster of trees within the eleventh squad’s territory where no one’s eyes could reach. She had barely managed to reach this spot after sitting silently through the meeting of the captains without offering any words or comments before her inner rage took over her body for the briefest of moments. Though it was only a second, it was long enough for her to grab her claymore’s handle and swing it through the air, resulting in the demise of a single oak tree.

Once her moment of madness was over, she sighed calmly as she recovered her normal elegance and grace, placing her claymore back over her back where it should be.

It was drawn not a moment later as a figure swiftly approached from the trees, moving toward her boldly. Her blade swung in a full arc and only stopped at the last moment, sending a current of wind from the sheer force of the swing.

“Ah. Good day, Captain Gerard. It’s a strange time to be spying on girls, isn’t it? Perhaps some broken bones would serve to help remind you.”

“…I’ll pretend to have only heard the greeting and nothing more from that sentence, Captain Renoir.”

Captain Yvon Gerard stood not a foot away from Elizabeth, his arms folded over his chest as she held her claymore’s blade just a fraction of an inch away from his neck. Judging by his posture, it was clear that he had no intention of backing off even with the danger apparent.

Yvon lifted his chin slightly as he peered into Elizabeth’s eyes, completely ignoring her sword. The emerald gems glittered back at him with nothing to offer—her mind was closed off entirely.

“I must say, I am impressed. Just a moment ago, I heard you kill a tree. But by the time I arrived, you’d already composed yourself.”

“I’m agree with the principles of stoicism, captain; especially since I carry a title that has an entire squad following me. It is necessary to control my emotions. However, there are times when I must…vent.”

Elizabeth drew back her sword and stuck it over her back once more, this time for good. Yvon cocked his head slightly as his sharp eyes tried to garner this woman’s feelings. Rather than being empty and dull with apathy, they were light and calm, clear as the open ocean. Even without her mask, Yvon suspected that her face would have been equally as blank.

“Strange…normally one vents themselves physically well enough during a fight. Was it not enough for you to clear you mind?”

“The opposite, I’m afraid. I failed the moment I let trash escape from me. And once I returned, I learn that a certain colleague of mine had the luxury of refusing all the means he had at his disposal to completely annihilate his opponent. I would have preferred to switch positions with him so that I may better put the opportunity to use. As it is, I was only moments away from claiming his other arm.”

“I do remember you showing the smallest bit of anticipation before heading off to fight your designated captain—which, though it goes without saying, is rare for you. Did you enjoy your duel?”

“I detested every moment of it.”

Yvon was slightly taken aback by the sweet demeanor Elizabeth answered him in, a small fire sparking in her eyes.

“Does a human enjoy stomping on a cockroach that refuses to die with each blow? I would think not. My opponent was scum equivalent to such, so you can imagine my frustration when he evaded death in the end, can’t you, Captain Gerard?”

“…But…nevertheless, surely he was some measure of an amusing opponent. After all, he must have shown some cunning to have escaped.”

“Hmm? Captain Gerard, forgive me if I am wrong, but don’t you detest cheap tricks and deceptive tactics? In that case, you would have broken out in hives just by seeing this man. It would be a most unpleasant and unfavorable way for a noble man such as yourself to meet his demise.”

“...A moment, Captain Renoir. You claim that this man is scum and is no better than a mere cockroach squirming for life…and yet you imply that he would succeed in killing me? Do you mean to insult me to my face?”

“Oh, no. I speak nothing of your tremendous skill. You are, after all, a captain that sent your opponent fleeing with his tail between his legs. If they were to face you straight on, I can count on my two hands the number of opponents who’d I bet on over you. However, it is a different matter altogether when we speak of your back. You don’t even bother to guard it—metaphorically speaking, of course.”

Yvon’s hands gripped his own folded arms as he listened to Elizabeth attempt to correct the misunderstanding, only to further rectify it, possibly on purpose. However, he did not let it get to him. He knew that this was how she was. She was venting her own frustration on him without making it obvious.

“Captain Renoir…why are you so determined to oppress these people? I understand that it is our duty to follow the order, but you act as if you have a personal vendetta. Soul Society was once a respected land like ourselves. I’m sure that there are many honorable men worth trading blows with among them. They’ve already shown that they are no mere cowards.”

“A simple display of might is no way to win the favor of others. Though you can respect anyone who shows honor and determination, I am not the same. Now, if you would be so kind as to return to your own squad’s barracks, I must return to my work.”

“Then tell me; what is it you respect, if not strength of spirit?” Yvon raised his voice slightly as Elizabeth turned her back to him, heading through the forest away from him. He puffed his chest out slightly as a frown carved itself on his face.

“Common sense. Something that many people lack in this age.”

Tarnished Steel


(Light gently peeks from beneath a door at the end of a long, slender hallway, faintly illuminating the stretch of darkness. Voices can be heard from behind the door, accompanied by the steady clanging. Behind the door stood Sumiko Anenokoji, carefully constructing a solution to Jisano Meibatu’s difficult circumstance. She begins quickly racing around her workshop, flipping switches, pressing buttons, and picking up equipment. Her lieutenant watches several monitors, surveying numerous data streams. Jisano attempts to remain patient, his anxiety prompting him to pace incessantly.)

Captain Anenokoji: (She glances over her shoulder, staring Jisano down. Her gaze is unforgiving and filled with irritation as he paces behind her) Could you perhaps take a seat or leave my lab? You’re making me anxious!

Captain Meibatsu: (He sighs deeply, but gives no reply)

Captain Anenokoji: (She begins pulling down various devices, each stemming from a structure above her that allows them to remain suspended in mid-air).


Officer: (He abruptly appears on a screen near where she diligently applies her genius) Captain Anenokoji, Captain Seinosuke and Captain Daidoji have just arrived.


Captain Anenokoji: (She glances at the screen and smiles) Alright. Begin elevation (Suddenly the room begins to quake as it slowly ascends from where it last stood.)

Captain Meibatsu: Wht the fuck is going on, Sumiko?!

Captain Anenokoji: Isn’t it obvious? We’re moving.

Captain Meibatsu: I realized that!!! I’m wondering why!

Captain Anenokoji: (She rolls her eyes) Various sections of my lab are able to be displaced, shifting their overall position amongst each other. It is helpful especially when I need to combine various research and techniques. This lab just happens to feed into my main office, which is where we will rendezvous with the others.

Captain Meibatsu: Why didn’t you tell me they were coming?!

Captain Anenokoji: Didn’t I? Oh, it must have slipped my mind (she says with a tinge of enjoyment. The lab finally raises into her lab, where the two captains stand and watch as they slowly rise from below) I can honestly say I was surprised and uncertain as to why you called this meeting. It is unlike either of you to make any effort to converse with me.

Captain Daidoji: I hope you aren’t offended by our interest?

Captain Anenokoji: No, no, of course not. I’m simply curious as to why. I enjoy company just like anyone else. Please, sit, eat, and relax. I have had my staff prepare some rare treats.

Captain Seinosuke: What a welcoming gesture, Captain Anenokoji. Jisano…(he stares at his friendly, observing his deficit) you look well considering everything. Tell me, how are preparations for his new arm?

Captain Meibatsu: You don’t need to concern yourself with that, Akihiko. I’ll be fine, I’m no wimp. Why did you come?

Captain Seinosuke: No, I agree, you’re not. And I came to check-in. I thought it would be the least I could do. Tomoyo accompanied me as she was hoping to aid Sumiko.

Captain Anenokoji: (She becomes alert, her eyes swinging open my tensioned blinds and spewing her tea back into the dish) HELP ME?! What do you mean?

Captain Daidoji: While I understand you can create an artificial arm, I was hoping to help you breathe life into it with kido. My knowledge of kido and yours of technology would enable us to create the most suitable replacement.

Captain Anenokoji: (She closes her eyes, taking a hefty gulp of her tea, almost unnervingly. Her brow twitches as she attempts to disguise her irritation. She sets her cup down and opens her eyes, gazing at Tomoyo). While I appreciate the gesture, Tomoyo, I can assure you everything has already been handled. I understand kido well-enough to utilize it in my experiments and to be honest, the remedy has already been completed.

Captain Meibatsu: It has?

Captain Anenokoji: It has (she says with her teeth clenched)!

Captain Meibatsu: Not even five minutes ago you were working on it…

Captain Anenokoji: My processor is slowly taking out any impurities for desired results, so shut up and drink your tea (She recites with a smile).

Captain Daidoji: You seem to have everything handled. I suspected you would, but Akihiko insisted that I offer my services as a kind gesture.

Captain Anenokoji: How nice (Her eyes readdress her tea as she silently sips).

Captain Meibatsu: Is that all you came for?

Captain Seinosuke: No. I was concerned and wanted to check-up on you, Jisano. After all, we have known each other for quite a while.

Captaian Meibatsu: Indeed, but I can assure you I am quite well. A loss of an arm won’t affect me much.

Captain Seinosuke: It has severe repercussion for your capacity to thwart off any enemy advance. That you know.

Captain Meibatsu: You heard Sumiko, my remedy is almost finished.

Captain Daidoji: I think the greater significance of Akihiko’s concern is with your interpersonal approach toward authority. It doesn’t appear to be benefiting you, Jisano. No disrespect…

Captain Meibatsu: Let’s not get into this, please. I was simply in a bad mood and the whole situation around that captain was ridiculous. He should have been paired with someone more willing to engage a weaker opponent. I’m more prideful, I’m afraid.

Captain Seinosuke: Understandable, but you can’t address the head-captain with such disrespect and cannot disobey her orders. I’m…

Captain Meibatsu: …worried about what actions she might take the next time I speak out of turn?

Captain Seinosuke: (He lowers his eyes, drifting into thought while he swirls the tea in his cup).

Captain Meibatsu: Don’t worry. I’ll keep my thoughts to myself around her, but there is something deeply disturbing about her these days.

Captain Anenokoji: Yes, I agree. She was more ruthless than I had ever seen her. Thankfully I’m not an impulsive brute like you, Jisano (She smiles proudly as she nibbles on cookie).

Captain Meibatsu: Shut the hell up, Sumiko (he watches as she shrugs her shoulders, ignoring his comment). Trust me, Akihiko, I am fine.

Captain Daidoji: I’m inclined to agree with Sumiko, however. Despite your lack of concern, Jisano, the head-captain’s anger was uncharacteristic.

Captain Seinosuke: The circumstances are likely weighing heavy on her.

Captain Anenokoji: (She looks at a monitor in the distance an places her tea on the table) Well, it’s time for you to take your leave, Jisano. My lieutenant will escort you to my skydeck laboratory, where you will undergo the procedure.

Captain Meibatsu: Procedure?!

Captain Anenokoji: Yes, of course. How else did you plan on regaining an arm? This time, however, try not to get it blown off and whatnot. Get going… (She watches as her lieutenant escorts Jisano from the room).

Captain Seinosuke: I’m suspicious of your words. There is something you’re not telling him.

Captain Anenokoji: So insightful, Akihiko. To be honest, this procedure is slightly unorthodox and will likely provide Jisano with some of the most significant pain of his life. However, it will afford him a new arm.

Captain Daidoji: How do it work?

Captain Anenokoji: Well, I have created a special serum that will allow him to regrow a fully functional arm.

Captain Daidoji: Fascinating. How did you manage that?

Captain Anenokoji: Simple. However, a true scientist never reveals her secrets. I believe I should be going, to oversee the process. Unless you’d like to watch and weigh-in?

Captain Seinosuke: I believe we’ll pass on the festivities. We’ll be on our way.

Captain Anenokoji: Suit yourselves. Be sure to drop by again! Company can be just the distraction I need sometimes (She smiles as they exit the door, her smile soon after becoming a steady grimace). Meddling Tomoyo. If only I could experiment on her and demonstrate just how superior I am. That would certainly train her to keep her mouth tightly sealed.

[Noble Relations]

To say the captains of the Juzo Hosho got on well together would be an accurate assumption, all the captains respect each others’ abilities and conflicts arise only out of differences in morals and personalities however most situations are resolved peacefully. However to say the Juzo Hosho captains were all friends would be a grave miscalculation. Sure there are groups who are friends with each other, Captain Shimo, Captain Seinosuke and Captain Daidoji are close friends, Captain Meibatsu and Captain Seinosuke are also well known good friends, as are Captain Sodo and Captain Anenokoji. However some captains do not get on with each other, Captain Shimo and Meibatsu are a perfect example of this.

To bring this to Kyobo, while outwardly he appears to get on with everyone despite the conflict with his moral standing, he has one person besides the Head-Captain he does not like. Captain Shimo. Not only is the relationship between their noble households poor but the fact that Akumu would often flaunt her families higher standing as a way to seem superior than Kyobo and as a way to belittle his family as well as himself, family pride being something he holds above most of his own personal morals. Thus the two would never get on in each other’s presence. To make matters worse, Akumu’s mother used to be their captain so Akumu got away with more than she should have done. This feud has not left either of them, though it is hidden behind pleasantries, an animosity is in the air that most of the captains can sense.

At this particular moment in time, the aforementioned Kyobo was working out some of his anger and pent up aggression by pummelling a punching bag he had installed in his office. The thing was coated in scratches, slight indentations, stitch marks and dried flecks of blood from where Kyobo had previously been unleashing his bottled up emotion. He had been doing it since the early morning, the day after the Captain’s Meeting, and his hands were red raw from the duration he had been battering the thing. Due to this intense workout he was sweating, his hair falling flatter than usual and he had discarded his captains Haori and kimono top where he had gotten too hot, revealing some dreadful scars that dotted his muscular frame.

He dealt the bag a final solid blow which made it rock heavily on the frame attaching it to the wall, threatening to pull it off. As he turned around to collect a towel provided to him by his lieutenant, there was a firm knock at his door.

Kyobo: (He gave the door a brief glance knowing full well it would not be anyone of his squad members knocking) Enter!

???: (The door opened and a definitely feminine figure strode through the door with an air of arrogance that could only belong to one person) Ah at that again Kyobo? I remember back in the old barracks you would work out all that anger of yours so you wouldn’t fly off at me. Shame it didn’t work out, did it?

Kyobo: (His normally friendly tone was forgotten at this point as his door was pushed closed by his visitor) When were we ever on informal terms Akumu. If you’ve come here to poke fun at me for your own self-gratification then kindly get off my Squad’s grounds before I have you physically removed.

Although Kyobo’s “threat” was not said with any malice or aggression, it was clear that there was a great deal of animosity and contempt in his words.

Akumu: (She tutted, causing Kyobo to pause in putting his kimono back on to give her a more than reproving look) Tsk, Tsk, you know full well what that will do to our families position if that happened. It will be seen as an outright attack against our family and once that happens (She folded her arms giving him a stern, reproving look of her own) your family will cease to be.

Kyobo: (He placed on his kimono, trying to focus on that rather than rising to Akumu’s words) So have you come over here to play politics or talk to me about something more meaningful and relevant because I doubt Akihiko would approve of all the times you’ve used your families influence to better your own position and (He chuckled forcefully) Ha ha, try to further the division between our families. But then again, an apple doesn’t fall far from the tree does it, Shimo?

Akumu: (She walked over to Kyobo’s desk, not more than away from him and picked a grape from his fruit bowl, popping it into her mouth) Are you still sore after that? How my mother suspended your mother from her lieutenant’s position? My, my how you dwell in the past Kyobo. Besides I doubt Aki, gives your family the time of day…

Kyobo: (He grabbed his zanpakuto and strapped it to his side, but the mere movement caused Akumu’s hand to drift towards her own, which did not go unnoticed by Kyobo) Don’t drag him down to your level. Sure our families aren’t on the best of terms but Akihiko has been doing his best to settle the situation, as have I. We are both extraordinarily busy, a term which you aren’t too familiar with, being the pampered princess you are and yet we both devote as much of our free time as we can spare to trying to sort this petty squabble out…

Akumu: (She slammed her fist into the table, shaking the items on top violently) Don’t you dare lecture me on that political shit. You were a cause of many of the problems in the first place. You brought shame to this squad, ruining its reputation. A reputation my mother worked hard to build, putting down the thug rule in Chīsai. Why do you think your mother was suspended? It was an attempt to keep you in line, which failed. (She picked up a photo frame from the desk and stared long and hard at the image) But then again the old bat was like you are now, a yellow bellied coward, who hasn’t the stomach to injure a person, let alone take a life.

At that she tossed the picture over her shoulder where it broke, the glass shattering and the frame itself splitting allowing a clearly aged photograph spill out onto the floor.

Akumu: (She smiled at Kyobo, whose eyes were fixated on the photograph behind her) Filth like her should be thrown out with the trash, or better yet, remain with the filth from whence they came. A pacifist has no place amongst those of the Juzo Hosho. The ability to take a life is necessary for a shinigami, would you not agree? Then again you would know all about that wouldn’t you? I mean that incident was the one that caused your little brothers death after all…..

To any who were listening outside, there was a loud crash from the room where Kyobo had shot forward and lifted Akumu off her feet and slammed her into the wall, holding her up by her throat.

Kyobo: (His eyes were ablaze with fury, genuinely scaring Akumu.) HOW FUCKING DARE YOU BRING THAT UP! I TOLD YOU ONCE BEFORE THAT YOU SHOULD NEVER MENTION THAT AGAIN, ESPECIALLY UNDER A CONTEXT SUCH AS THIS! (His hand tightened around her throat, causing her to struggle but vainly) YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT KILLING A PERSON FEELS LIKE! YOU THINK IT’S EASY?! EVERY LIFE I HAVE TAKEN HAUNTS ME TO THIS DAY AND I CAN SWEAR THAT YOUR COUSINS ATTITUDE IS THE SAME! (He pulled her off the wall but held her above the ground still holding her throat tight. His voice lowered to an audible whisper) If you dare mention that again or besmirch my family’s name again, I will kill you, no matter what might happen between our families, I will not let you get away with it again.

He dropped her on the floor where she gasped for air, rubbing her neck furiously trying to get feeling back into it.

Kyobo: (He drew his blade and pointed it at her) Now get out before I decide to take another life but this would be one I would be happy to take.

Akumu stood up and walked briskly out of the room without a single word shutting the door after her, feeling utterly ashamed and fearful of the man she left behind. However back in the office, Kyobo delicately picked up the fallen picture which tore under his gentle touch being as aged as it was. He growled under his breath before yelling out loud and throwing his drawn zanpakuto at the punching bag, watching it split it in half with ease.

[Wounded…]

Senya Tatami sat in the Captain-Commander’s seat, a stoic expression on her face, as she waited for the Captains of the Gotei 13 to fill the hall. Solemn thoughts were swimming through her mind. She was still processing the brief information that she had received from the return of her surviving Captains.

The large wooden doors finally opened and Yani Kohei entered taking his position on the left side of the assembly hall and briefly stared at his Captain-Commander before turning away again; he was the first to arrive, just as Senya had expected. The other Captains soon entered the hall afterwards, each lining up in their positions. The last to arrive was Aexus Gingumaru, also as Senya had expected. He sauntered in to his position actively avoiding her gaze. Senya stood up and looked over at her Captains. All present had noticeably visible wounds from battle and were covered from head to toe in white bandages; most notable were Majo Shin who was wearing a dark visor due to her inflicted blindness, Akarui Hyosho who still had one petrified arm and Yani Kohei who now only had one arm remaining.

Senya Tatami: Since you have all only just returned I am not entirely aware of your recent predicament. *her tone becomes grave* But from what I can see we were given a sound beating. (She observes the Captains; a few of them bow their heads in shame) What happened?

Yani Kohei: They had done their research. We were at a disadvantage the moment we stepped into the Precipice World.

Senya Tatami narrowed her eyes and silently beckoned for someone to continue.

Kie Geißt: One of their Captains had done very thorough and specific research on all of us and our zanpakutō. They knew everything. Our history. Our fighting styles. Our shikai abilities and techniques. Even our bankai abilities and techniques. (Aexus flinches at her last comment) They also tampered with the Precipice World so that we would all arrive at a predetermined location.

Senya Tatami: You were punished so severely…

Akarui Hyosho: *aggressively* They picked us out specifically! All of them had powers suited and adapted to dealing with our own, what do you expect us to do?!

Majo Shin: (She turns to her friend) Calm down Akarui, don’t get so riled.

Senya Tatami: (Her face remains calm, perfectly hiding her growing sense of agitation) Are you too weak to defend yourselves? Are we too narrow-sighted to prepare properly for battle? The Jūzō Hoshō prepared themselves for us quite well and look what happened. How can we think to protect Soul Society if we cannot even protect ourselves? It is quite shameful.

Livius Abel: At least I didn’t end up dead or powerless like those other two pieces of shit…

Akarui Hyosho: (She turns to Livius and violently grips him by the scruff of his neck) Livius you swine! Have you no respect?!

Livius Abel: Get your hands off me woman! (He heatedly slaps her hand off of him)

Shen Tsukubashi: (His face shows concern) Livius, they were our comrades.

Livius Abel: I couldn’t care less what they were; they aren’t of much use to Soul Society now, are they?

Akarui Hyosho: (Her eyes are filled with animosity) Get the fuck off your high horse and you filthy-

Senya Tatami: (She powerfully flares her reiatsu) *stern tone* Enough!! You are behaving like children! (The Captains slowly return to their positions and both Livius and Akarui grunt indignantly; her reiatsu subsides) While we may have suffered two grave losses and now possess four vacant captain positions, we must learn from our mistakes and correct them for the next time we cross blades with the Jūzō Hoshō. Captain Geißt what information could you gather?

Kie Geißt: Well I managed to make a rudimental catalogue of the zanpakutō abilities of everyone’s Jūzō Hoshō opponent. Unfortunately none of them released their bankai so I can’t be sure of their real power as of yet.

Senya Tatami: Hm, well that is good enough for now.

Aexus Gingumaru: Wouldn’t it be best if we fight different opponents who are more suited to our own-

Livius Abel: (He scowls) I refuse to fight anyone other than my Jūzō Hoshō counterpart…

Senya Tatami: (Akarui prepares to retort but is silenced by Senya’s eyes) It would be best to battle with the Captain you fought with previously. You know their style better than anyone else so you can be more prepared for them the next time. I want a report of your battle in the next 24 hours and give all necessary information to Captain Geißt. Use all your available time to train. This time I want no surprises. (The Captains silently acknowledge her) You are dismissed.

The atmosphere was filled with a mixed sense of humiliation, irritation and weariness as the Captains shuffled quietly out of the assembly hall to mull over what had been discussed.

Hey I just saw this role play. is it still open for anyone to join by any chance?

Well here is my character. its not a bio, I can post that if you want. I tried to make it not op, or even offensive but a defensive Zanpakuto.

Character name: Arianna Draganov.
Zanpakuto name: Light bringer. Defensive type zanpakuto

Appearance. The blade is akin to a scimitar. About four foot in length with a slight curved blade, and blue hilt with a sapphire embedded into the pommel. Its guard shaped like wings extend outward like a bird spreading its wings. This protects her hand from enemy zanpakuto.

Shikai release: Cast off your fear and follow me into the darkness.

Shikai ability: an Aura surrounds Arianna, her allies and enemies. For her and her allies wounds begin to heal, poisons removed. Her allies are filled with hope, and all their fears are cast onto Arianna strengthening her allies reiatsu by two fold. This makes all attacks that use reiatsu, kido, shunpo, or zanpkuto attacks double in strength, power and speed. Her enemies are weakened by the same amount as her allies are strengthened. And instead of being filled with hope they are filled with dread and fear making it hard for them to fight. Any who’s will is weaker then Arianna flee.

Shikai appearance. Light bringer changes dramatically into a narrow claymore length sword with a blue glow eminating from blade with her motto engraved into the blade. The length is equal to a clay more, but as light as a katana so can be used with one hand. The cross guard changes into a cross that extends to five inches on either side with the handle wrapped formed from ivory.

And in her other hand a large silvery colord triangular shield that glows much like the sword that is as large as her torso. The shield is strong enough to block most attacks and can absorb vibration so she can even block a punch from a menos grande hollow and not be hurt.

She has no shikai attacks.

Bankai name: Piercing light

Bankai appearance: a white glowing thin armor enshrouds Arianna. The armor’s strength and durability is akin to the strongest of Hierros. Yet it doesn’t hinder her movement. The armor looks much like Kain’s dragoon armor from final fantasy 4 except with a large cape that can also protect her. Her sword’s length extends to the length of Ichigo’s Bankai sword just more curved and narrow like a rapier. The once glow of the blade engulfs into a blue flame as does the shield which changes into a large circular shield that can be thrown. The sheath of the sword is solid white with intricate carvings on the sheath. The handle of the sword changes to take on that of a dragon with its maw holding the circular sapphire gem in its teeth. And where its tail would be is where the blade begins.


The shikai ability remains the same except poisons, wounds etc heal over time as long as she is near her allies. her own wounds heal as long as she has reiatsu, sort of like a regen spell. And the closer one gets to her the stronger the ability becomes.

Bankai ability one: Rebuke. With either her sword or shield she can block or strike an attack redirect it back to her opponent with double the speed and power of the original.

Bankai attack two: Burning hope. This ability can work one of two ways. It can revive one recently fallen person from death. Mend that persons wounds completely even regenerating a wound. However the wounds she instantly heals for her ally then are inflicted on her. If the person is dead, while she wouldn’t die she would be forced out of bankai for a good while. Or she can heal her own wounds instantly, replenish lost energy, and double her speed and strength for a temporary time. When it wares of she passes out.

Bankai 3: Valour. This attack really isn’t attack when used, all enemies including her are reverted to their first/normal form. So an arrancar is forced back into its normal hollow form, or if it’s a quincy they would essentially be rendered utterly useless as this attack seals all abilities away. Forcing the combatants to fight with their own skill and power. One can still use reiatsu but that is all.

She is a kido master, but specializing in seals, barriers and healing kido. She is extremely proficient in hakuda, shunpo so much so only the likes of Yoruichi can beat her. And uses her own variant of Shunko that when her reiatsu hits her enemy it numbs hat area like a Jyuuken strike.

She also has a major handicap in the form of being blind. And he cannot draw her weapon on any who is good or neutral unless they are threatening the innocent. So she has to use kido, etc to fight. And she would

I guess you are right I didn't see it like that. I can always create a different one which I enjoy doing. as I already had one in mind. ill post it and tell me what you think

uhm before I do post are arrancar okay or only shinigami?

here is my other shinigami who is a melee wind user.

Character name: Terra Brandford.

Zanpakuto name: Wild wolf

Appearance: a bastard sword, with a green hilt, with a long chord attached to the hilt. With a green blade.
Shikai release: Feel how sharp my claws and fangs are.

Shikai appearance: Hungry wolf two twin scimitars with a deep green hue to the edges. ( think drizz’t do urden twinkle and icing death)

Special ability. Each cut releases a gust of wind to slam into the enemy and knock them away. The force is like being hit by a wrecking ball. With each a light howl echoes out.

Shikai ability one: cutting wind. A blade of wind flies as fast as a bullet from a sniper rifle cutting into the enemy and knocking them away.

Shikai ability two: Wind wall: sonic boom. With the swipe of both blades a condensed blast of wind is thrown at the enemy or object. Upon impact it explodes like a sonic boom, dealing both concussive damage, and disorients the enemy. It has a teen foot radius so it doesn’t have to directly hit to work.

Shikai three. Vanishing wind: Terra like the wind vanishes, think of a predator invisibility cloak. She cannot attack though when using this ability. She can also cloak others by expending reiatsu.

Bankai name: Legendary wild wolf.

Banka appearance. She drops her weapons which form twin ghostly wolves that are about hip height and can attack and so the same bankai ability one and two as her or, they can howl sending out a powerful blast of wind. Similar to grimmjows roar

Well I’ll do my best to explain her appearance. I can send a link too. A white ethereal piece of cloth covers her legs like a lava lava. Her upper torso is covered by the same material around her bust which extends to her left arm leaving her right arm bare except for a leather fingerless glove, and gold bangle on her bicep. Just under bust is a maroon leather strap wrapping around her.

Her left hand is covered just by a leather wrap. A gold and crimson head band is the last of her ensemble with a maroon belt around her waist with a gold chain dangling from the belt. Across her stomach and uncovered arm and thighs are red tribal tattoos. And lastly a pair of roman sandals adorning her feet.
Bankai special ability: she can now control the winds sending out typhoon/tornado like gusts. And since her bankai is sheer taijutsu, her fingers with the wind can now cut like an animals claws or send out blades of wind.

Bankai one: hurricane upper. She either upper cuts her enemy encompassing them in a violent tornado. Or she can launch a small five foot tornado that what it hits, be an attack or someone explodes into a tornado. The strength of the tornado depends how much energy she uses. She can curve the tornado, but once launched it cannot stop and suddenly change direction so it can be avoided.

Bankai two.: hurricane kick. Encompassing herself into a tornado she races forward extremely fast. The enemy can be sucked into the attack where they are whipped in a circle as she pummels them with punches and kicks. The winds rip the flesh before the hurricane explodes sending the opponent spiralling away.

Bankai three: Mark of the wolf: either of the wolves latch onto the enemy pinning them down. she rushes in and pummels the enemy with a flurry of kicks, claw swipes, punches and knees before wrapping grabbing the enemy and tossing both her and them into the air. A tornado encompasses them as they rise. Once she reaches pinnacle height she and her opponent are sent crashing down when the wind explodes like a moab bomb as her enemy is carved into the ground. This is similar to rock lees primary lotus, and Zangiefs super where the throws the enemy into the air, catches them and suplexes them back down. this attack reverts her to shikai and also hurts her as well.

This character I love more as I took inspiration from terry bogard, joe higashi and rock lee. hopefully this one is more suited if so and you don't mind me joining your role play lemme know

Again, none of the necessary information is addressed and isn't this the same zanpakuto you just posted on Clan War? I believe it is. Also, it is very similar to Stark's wolves and you may many references to other characters from various anime. I question whether this zanpakuto is anymore useful than the other. Can you picture it in a fight against a member of the Juzo Hosho? I can't. I could be wrong. Let the others weigh in, I guess.

And you can have 1-2 characters, but the previous zanpakuto should be deleted or another put in its place. Also, your zanpakuto doesn't have a name. "Legendary Wolf" isn't the traditional format for a zanpakuto, as this is Japanese inspired. Not only does the zanpakuto need a Japanese translation, but your techniques need a name. Bankai 1-2-3 doesn't make much sense. I suspect the others will agree with me.

I recommend you be a member of the Gotei 13, as we need that. And even though I said this up above, I will repeat, the template in the description needs to be used and the specific categories need to be addressed in order for your character to be placed in the roster. I can't make much sense of it at this point.

Hey guys. I'll be posting my character shortly. So keep at least one slot for the Gotei 13 open for me, as in a day or so, my character will be up, and ready to rumble. :)

Name: Yoishiro Roychi

Age: 302 years old

Gender: Male

Race: Shinigami

Height: 1,85 meters

Eyes: Right one silver, left one golden

Hair: Brown

Position: Gotei 13 Captain of Gotei 13's second squad.

Appearance: He is always seem wearing the official attire for a gotei 13 captain, however in white coloration, as he prefers. He always carries his zanpakuto on his back, as his sword is a two hand style, and it is easier for him to carry it this way. Always using a black belt arouns his waist, and black fingerless gloves, which help him to grip his zanpakuto firmly and whit ease.
Personality: He is very calm, and his personality resembles that of a pacifist. He always believes that there are other solution besides war and battle, therefore he always tries to negotiate whit his opponents. If all attempts fail, however his personality changes, and he becomes impulsive, however not adopting an aggressive style of combat. His fighting style resembles his personality, as he is more introverted. Therefore he always fight in a defensive style, counter-attacking his opponents whit precision, most of the times, on critical spots. He doesn’t enjoy killing, and he will attempt all manners, from subjugation, to knocking his opponent out, before killing him. It is very hard for someone to be hated by Yoishihiro, as he is very kind in nature. Such traits were considered dangerous, and that’s why it took so long for him to be able to become a captain for the Gotei 13. Even tough orders are essential, and he tries to follow them to the fullest, he will always follow his own morals and convictions first. If the orders contradict his morals, he will disobey, risking everything, even his life, to do what he considers right.

Zanpakuto:

Name: Denial (Hitei)

Appearance: His zanpakuto is similar to a standard katana, however it has a golden blade that shines brightly, and it have Japanese kanji written on it, which is actually the name of his zanpakuto. The handles are circular, and covered by plain white leather.

Release command: Pool of nothingness. (Kyomu no püru)

Shikai: His blade does not increase in size but it changes it’s shape. It resembles an European sword, dual-edged, whit the Japanese kanji still visible, and the blade still golden. The handle becomes silver, and the blade has a blue energy that flows around the blade

Shikai Ability: His shikai ability is the one to absorb any incoming attack inside his zanpakuto. Once absorbed, the blue energy that manifests around the golden sword, will increase. He can absorb any incoming attack as long as the sword has enough space inside it (it has a limit of space in which the enemy ability can be stored). If the space is completely filled whit energy, any attack that comes at him, will not be absorbed, and will work as usual. If even whit open space, the attack of an opponent is so powerful that the blade don’t have enough space to absorb and contain it safely, it will also not be absorbed. The energy that is absorbed out of one’s attack can then be used in the form of a blue energy that manifests around the blade. This blue energy then can be shot resembling a laser cannon, or it can be used to fire slices of energy that slices everything it enters in contact whit. Or it can be simply used to remain manifesting around the blade, increasing it’s durability, and strength.

Bankai Name: Black Hole (Burakkuhöru)

Bankai Appearance: The blue energy that was once allocated in his blade, is now seem cursing trough his entire body, even inside, as when he breathes, you can see the blue energy coming out of his mouth or nose. His eyes starts shining deeply, and his sword increases in length, becoming twice as big as it originally was. The skill of his shikai remains when using the first abilitie of his bankai, and now are stretched trough his whole body, meaning he doesn’t need to use his sword to absorb incoming attacks. However since his body is what absorbs the attacks from now on, if he surpasses the limit of energy that he can absorb, he may suffer from severe internal damage, which might even end up killing him.
Bankai Ability 1: He expands the blue energy that is evolving in his body into a giant blue sphere which resembles an electro-magnetic field. Any power source inside this sphere will be sucked out and absorbed into Yoishihiro. This means that now he doesn’t need to have an opponent’s attacks directly hit him in order to absorb the energy and use it for himself, but all it takes for someone to have their energy sucked from them is to be inside the sphere. All shinigami inside the sphere will have their energy absorbed by Yoisihiro indefinitely, until they get off the radius of his sphere, or Yoishihiro retracts the sphere back into the blue aura. It is a very dangerous ability, as it sucks energy indefinitely, not only of all shinigami inside the radius, but also of any nearby power source. Yoishiro usually uses this when he wants an incredible amount of energy to use in a single strike, instead of keeping it inside him, and once using the powerful attack, absorb as much energy as possible. He can’t however keep sucking energy indefinitely. The more energy he sucks, the more near to his limit it gets, and if surpasses his limits, he’ll start to have severe internal damage. Every time that he reaches the limit of energy that he can absorb, the limit drops, making it even more limited on how much energy he can suck from someone/something, up to the point he can’t absorb energy anymore, and falls unconscious.

Bankai Abilty 2: This ability replaces his shikai ability. Now instead of absorbing the energy of an attack, he deflects the attack directly back to the owner. When using this ability however, he is completely restrained to a defensive fighting style as he can’t use any kind of special attack, such as his energy slashes from his shikai and Bankai first skill. The blue energy that was usually around him, will go back into his sword. Then whit a single word he can order the energy to form a shield on front of him which deflects the attack back at the owner. The first time he uses the shield, it can deflect any kind of attack regardless of how powerful it is. Then the second time, he can no longer deflect determined attacks, and so on, until he can’t deflect anymore attacks.

Bankai Ability 3: This skill is very dangerous to use, and has only one, but very dangerous limitations. If he can no longer absorb any attacks from his opponent, due to having his limit decreased, or he can't deflect because he already used this skill to much and the shield wouldn't be able to deflect the spiritual attack, he uses this skill. When activating it, his blue aura turns into a vivd red, resembling blood. When any attack enters in contact whit him, will then be denied. This means that the attack will not be abosrbed or delfected back at the opponent, but instead, will simply produce no effect at all. This skill however has a very dangerous drawback. He uses his own health to denie the spiritual attack that was sent at him. Depending on how strong the attack that was sent at him is, the more damage he will sustain. It can go from internal damage, to severe damage to the brain or one of the senses. It can even cause paralysis on his body. Therefore he needs to be very cautious when using this skill, as any attack that he can't sustain the damage may be fatal. Also his offensive capabilities gets limited to physical attacks, as when his energy turns from blue to the blood-like red, it loses all of it's offensive capabilities, and can only denie the effects of incoming spiritual attacks using his own health to compensate for it.

All of his skils as you all noticed are based on the absorption of an opponents spiritual energy to use for his own purposes (whit the exception of his third bankai ability). The spiritual energy that he absorbs however, is converted to his own spiritual energy. He can't absorb physical attacks of any kind.

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I hope you guys liked my character. :)

hi ^.^ can i join too?

Thanks for helping me out KOV. I was thinking exactly of that. I'll change his skills as soon as possible (maybe later at night) as now I have other things to attend to. I wanted to send my character bio to zrazie, but unfortunately, it couldn't be sent as it passed the minimun letters required. But don't worry, I'll be changing it later. Thaks for the help man. :)

As for the attacks, only spiritual ones. Sorry if I wasn't clear on that.

can my zanpakuto be water type? (since i read teh desc i dont quite understand so... is water-type zanpakuto allowed?)

Name: Harimakku Sojan

Sex: male

Age: 116 looks 26

Appearance: green eyes, messy short black hair, normal shinigami outfits with a green haori for a cape.

Personality : most of the times he is very calm. He also sometimes likes to attack the opponent when they're talking or busy at something else, but that's just hen he is impatient. He's very loyal to everyone and especialy those of higher ranks than him. He likes strategies and often plays strategy games with his subordinates. He´s very nice to everyone, he sometimes visits the rukongai and gives the poor people some wealth and food and sometimes builds a home for them and just has fun with them.

Position: hachibantai taichou (captain of squad 8)

Zanpakuto name: Ryū ken (dragon fist)

Sheathed: green hilt, normal katan size and lenght, white blade, with green tassels from the bottom of the handle

shikai looks: the pic below

Shikai abilities: 1.Shōgeki-tekina ryū iki (shocking dragon breathe)
Sojan goes into a stance where he holds his spear at a shoulder height and points at the enemy with the tip and says the abilitie's name and he shoots a giant reiatsu force shaped as a dragon head at the enemy

2. Doragonsupēsu (dragon space)
A green air comes out of the weapon, if the enemy is within the air he will feel dizzy for 10 seconds. This ability can only be activated once every shikai.

3.Miwaku no kasai (enchanted fire)
The blade of the spear changes it shape. the new shape is a green chinise dragon head with it's mouth open and giant teeth. The new shape can close it's mouth to grab something with it, it also increases the amount of power released from Shōgeki-tekina ryū iki

bankai name and appearence: Ryū no ikari (wrath of the dragon)
Sojan fuses himself with his zanpakuto. Getting green reitsu wings and two giant gloves in the shape of a dragon head with its mouth open and a curved blade (similiar to the blade of the shikai. But isntead much stronger and bigger) coming out of both mouths.

Bankai abilities:1.Densetsu-tekina kokyū (legendary breathe)
Sojan charges up his gloves and releasesintense amount of reiatsu burst at the enemy 5x times stronger than Shōgeki-tekina ryū iki.

2. Doragon no chisei (reign of dragons)
his wings turn into two dragons fighting for Sojan. They have horns and claws and will use those to attack the enemy with their life. When they die. The amount of reiatsu used to kill those dragons go to Sojan. This ability can only be used once every bankai.

3.Saigo no teikō (last stand)
Sojan drops all his defensive and goes in offence his gloves combine and turn into a big green broadsword. This ability is used for a finisher or the final strike against the enemy.

4.Doragon tsuba (dragon spit)
spits balls of reiatsu at the enemy from the gloves 2x times faster than bala. if it hits the enemy it makes a massive explosion

((if there's anything wrong feel free to tell me ^.^))

I edited his third bankai ability. Tell me if it's good now please. :)

oh i also forgot the release phtase for my zanpakuto.. anyways.. it's release phtase is: Breathe, Ryu ken

Heh thanks guys! I'll be uploading a photo of his zanpakuto, and of Yoishiro himself later. Then if it's ok, I'll make his intro post. Only problem is I don't know where to start. But I'll get into it. :)

So guys, I'm here to upload the pics I promissed. Here you go. This first one is how my character is supposed to look like.

Now his clothes are nothing like the ones he is wearing on the pic. It's a former GOtei 13 attire, but in white colloration. The sword on his hand is exactly the same but the blade is golden and the handle is covered by plain white leather.

His hair is the same as on the pick, but it's brown in colloration instead of black. And right eye silver, left one golden.

This is how his zanpakuto looks like when he releases it.

It's the same model, but the blade is golden and the handle is silver.

I'll be making an intro post as soon as I can, if I'm already permitted to do so. However, if any of you can send me a message whit a resume of what happened till now, and what's happening now, I would be grateful. The thing is, I wanted to read everything, but there are so much posts, I wouldn't be able to do so as time is not a luxury I'm having to often. So If you guys can send me a resume of what happened so far, and even give me a hint on how to insert my character to the story I would be grateful.

Alo crazie, yeah I agree, I think my commanders shuld get to know yours. :)

And no problem, commander of the 3rd squad is great! :)

So guys this is my first post. As you all know, I'm new to bleach, so it may not be a very good post. That's why I want your feedback on what you think I could upgrade or even change. :)

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Soul Society. It has been a 100 years since the Angel's invasion. It's attempt to eradicate the Soul Society, the entire city was left in ruin and ruble. Yoishiro was a Shinigami, and one of the soldiers under the command of the 3rd Squad Leader of the Gotei 13. He was too weak back then, and was almost killed during the invasion and destruction of the city. Suddenly after the Soul Society violating an ancient law and having their soul reaper privileges revoked, a war started between the Juzo Hosho and the Gotei 13 who are trying to prove their worth.

Yoishiro wanted to be a captain but he didn't filled the pre-requisites. He didn't knew how to use Bankai, the ultimate form of a Zanpakuto. His personality was also considered a problem by other captains, as he always would put his morals and convictions even ahead of supreme orders. But Yoishiro felt a necessity, no a duty to protect his place of origin, the Soul Society. Ever since he was born a 302 year ago, he lived in that place, and trained as hard as he could. However he was never the best at anything he did, and while his friends and colleagues, all achieved high ranks very fast, he satyed behind. Unable to communicate whit his zanpakuto properly, he couldn't even use his powers correctly.

However all that changed after the invasion. After seeing everyone he cared for dying, and getting slaughtered, he decided that he wouldn't be a loser anymore. So he trained. And trained hard. For 15 years, he trained to achieve his bankai. After learning his Zanpakuto's name, and fighting it lots of times, and countless trainings, days and nights whitout rest, meditation and exhaustive physical and mental training, he finally had achieved it. He finally understood the true essence of his zanpakuto, and now he could feel his connection whit Hitei. After the 15 years of training, he was finally ready. He had finallt achieved the greates technique of a zanpakuto... Bankai. He smiled wide as he realized that finally he got what he strived for so long.

"I can finally do what I have to do... I can finally be a captain... of the Gotei 13." he said whit a smirk

He then grabbed his things, and whit his zanpakuto on his back, on it's sealed form, walked out of the training grounds. A week later after achieving his bankai, and learning how to use it properly, he decided to go to the commander's barracks and take the Captian's proficciency test. He was sure he would be able to pass. He had a duty to fulfill. And he knew he would be able to do it.

As he stepped inside the HQ, where all Suqads were connetcted somehow, Yoishiro was suddenly stopped by someone who hel dim by his arm.

"What are you doing here?"

Yoishiro remained silent, simply turning his head to face the man that was holding him. It was no one else than Kairo. He and Yoishiro were rivals since thei knew each other. But their rivalry wasn't a friendly one. Even tough rare, (since Yoishiro is calm by nature and only fights when forced) he and Kairo would engage in battles that almost killed one of them. Yoishiro would always lose. He never won against Kairo, not a single time.

"Are you deaf, dickhead? I asked you, what're you doing here?"

"So typical..." said Yoishiro.

Kairo frowned as he heard that. "What?"

"You are alwyas so impulsive and relentless... Can't you just leave me alone for a sec? I have business to attend to."

"Like what?"

"I'm going to take the test to become captain of the 3rd squad."

Kairo remained silent for a few moments before grinning. "A loser? Like you? Are you telling me that you managed to achieve Bankai... Or did I slammed your head so hard, that you now want to pass the ranks by battling one of the captains? You, know you can't become a captain if you don't achieve your Bankai, unless you fight and DEFEAT a former captain, or you are appointed by 3 or more of them. And, introverted and feminine as you are, I'm sure none of them would appoint you to the ranks, since you don't talk to anyone. And also, you can't even dream of defeating a captain, since you can't even defeat me."

"You achieved Bankai?" asked Yoishiro.

"No. Still training for it. To be honest, one of the reasons I didn't achieved yet, is because I didn't trained hard enough, out of pity. That's right. Pity. Also there is no fun on a fight if there's no chance of losing. Even if it's around 1%."

"I see... So the roles are inverted."

"What?" asked Kairo a look of confusion on his face.

"I always lost to you, because you would always overpower me. You were always faster, and stronger. I would alawys lose. But now, after this 'revelation' of yours, I'm pretty sure, you're the loser now."

Kairo tried to remain calm. But what Yoishiro said next, broke him.

"I manage to achieve what you never could. Bankai."

Kairo grabbed his zanpakuto, and tried slashing Yoishiro. Yoishi however, grabbed his and blocked it whit ease.

"You peace of shit! You think you can simply fuck whit me like that!!? Doing these kinds of jokes?"

" I just defended myself from you. Like always, I didn't had the intention to start up a fight. And I don't want to fight. But if you force me to it, I have no choice but to defend myself."

Kairo was about to attack Yoishiro once more, but he suddenly stopped. He saw a man standing next to them whatching the scene.

"What is going on?" said Aexus, captian of the 7th squad.

"I guess fights between ourselves were prohibitted inside the barracks..."

"I'm... I'm sorry..." said Kairo.

Aexus stared at both of them. He then turned his eyes to Kairo. "You, leave."

Kairo leaved the room whitout questioning. Aexus then turned to Yoishiro. "You too."

Yoishiro kept staring at Aexus. Aexus stared back at him and they remained like that for a few seconds.

"Didn't you heard what I just said."

"I did but I'm not leaving. I want to take the test to become Captain of the 3rd Squad."

Aexus furrowed an eyebrown. "You're telling me you achieved Bankai? Is that it?"

Yoishiro nodded. Aexus remained silent for a few seconds, and stared at the ground, one of his hands on his cheek, as if he was processing something. He actually heard of that man. He was a member of the 3rd squad and got injured during the Angel invasion. He was actually useless as a fighter, as he was always calm, and tried to avoid fights, and even when engaged in one, would just defend himself, and never attack his oponent. He didn't knew if it was fear, or he simply didn't liked battles, but that itself was enough for him to never be qualified as a Captain. In common times, they would simply ignore him. However, they were i need of more captains, if they were to have any hope of fighting the Juzo Hosho. And also, if he truly achieved Bankai, what type would it be? What would be it's skills? Coming from someone who was introverted, and socially awkward like himself, he could expect something truly unique. He then turned to meet Yoishiro.

"Come whit me."

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Sorry for being late. I edited my post. I don't know if it's fine, and according to you all. Introductory posts, are always the hardest for me. Whit a few more posts, I'll sure get into the story and be even greater at posting. But I'd still like your feedback, so I can improve guys. :)

I wouldn't necessarily call that post, Leleu. As you mention, you're new to bleach, but it seems as though all you did was recite the description of the forum and random facts pertinent to bleach. You don't need to provide such detail as "it was in it's sealed state." The prevailing assumption is that it is sealed unless you've recited the command and name. I understand why you went to great lengths to demonstrate your knowledge of bleach, but that isn't necessary or relevant to the overall purpose of a post. Additionally, there was no dialogue or real introduction of your character. I recommend you read some of the dialogue posts on page thirteen and a few on pages two and three. And pay careful attention to the formatting of each post, as that is important. With any good first-post, where your character provides his initial impression, it is vital that he actual engage in some interaction, otherwise many of his personality features go unnoticed. It would be a good idea to collaborate with one of the other Gotei 13 members and decide on a direction to take your character. Who does he have a relationship with? Does he have friends? Is he a loner? Is he shy or is he simply unfriendly? These are important characteristics you want to consider when first portraying your character as it guides how you direct the dialogue and environment. If you read many of our dialogue posts, they are insightful in the sense that they provide intimate details into the minds and spirits of our characters. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. But at this point, that post, though your first, is not really adequate. However, it was a good first effort.

[the new captain arrives]

Aexus Gingumaru shunpo'd to the entrance of the 1st squad's barracks, along with Majo Shin and Inochi Iriguchi following close behind him. They all looked at each other before entering and making their way to their Captain-Commander’s room.

Inochi Iriguchi: "Do you think he’s ready? He is young and inexperienced."

Majo Shin: "Have some faith, there have been younger Captains before you know… "

Aexus Gingumaru: "I believe he can do it; he’s been working and training hard for years. He’s as good as anyone."

Inochi Iriguchi: "If you say so."

They finally reached Senya Tatami’s room. Her fukutaichou (vice-captain) greeted them and opened the door for them to enter. Senya was in her own world, in a state of controlled meditation; having already sensed their presence a while ago, she opened her eyes and calmly looked up at the three Captains standing before her.

Senya Tatami: "(She smiles) What do I owe the pleasure?"

Inochi Iriguchi: "We three, as well as Tsukubashi, Hyosho and Karyuudo Taichou (captain), would like to recommend that 3rd Seat of the squad 10, Harimakku Sojan, would be Captain of the 8th squad." Majo and Aexus nod in agreement

Senya Tatami: "I see. Does he possess bankai?"

Majo Shin: "He does, ma’am. While young and only 3rd Seat, he managed to achieve it a few years ago."

Senya Tatami: "Hm. Well the quicker we can fill vacant positions the better. Deliver a message to him to be at the squad 1 barracks in six hours. I will see what he has then."

Three Captains: in unison; "Yes, ma’am. "

The three Captains shunpo'd away, Inochi and Aexus back to their barracks and Majo to deliver the message to Sojan.

FIVE HOURS LATER

Senya Tatami sat down in the courtyard of the squad 1 barracks with Kie Geißt and Yani Kohei taichou sitting either side of her. Harimakku Sojan stood before them.

Senya Tatami: Do you think you can handle becoming a Captain?

Harimakku Sojan: He nods. "Yes, ma’am."

Senya Tatami: "Good. I’d like to see you in action." Livius suddenly flash steps into the courtyard. "You will fight the Captain of the 11th Division, Livius Abel. All the best."

Sojan turned to face his opponent. Now was his time to shine.



Sojan: "Good to meet you! Livius-taichou! I am honored to fight against you!"

Livius: "Huh… so you're the new kid that everyone has been talking about?"

Sojan: "Yes sir! I WILL become a Captain and help protect Soul Society! So don't think I will go easy on you!"

Livius: "Hehehe… come!"

Sojan and Livius flew at each other and began fighting.

Sojan got off the first attack and leapt in to slash Livius. Livius parried it and went for a kick. Sojan took one of his hands from the katana and blocked Livius’ kick.

They both jumped away from each other.

Sojan: Hado no. 63, Raikoho!
Livius: Bakudo no. 81, Danku!

The resulting explosion was small as Sojan’s hadō spell was completely blocked by Livius’ high-level bakudō spell.

Undeterred Sojan shunpo'd behind Livius and went to slash his back. Livius blocked the attack with his blade with one hand and with the other hand he violently punched Sojan in the stomach, sending the Shinigami flying backwards. He kept his feet however.

Sojan: “Oof... that was a strong hit... Livius-taichou”

Livius grunted in return to his comment before launching himself at Sojan. They continued to trade blows, Livius seemingly on top but Sojan capably holding his own, though neither had managed to land a cut.

Sojan was still in high spirits and continued to give his best. Livius shunpo´d right in front of Sojan and went for a slash. Sojan blocked it with his sword flipped over Livius, giving him a small cut on his back. However Sojan noticed that he had been cut on his back too while jumping. They clashed swords again, Livius kicking Sojan in the stomach with Sojan returning the kick to Livius’ stomach. Livius withdrew his blade and cut Sojan's hand. Sojan shunpo'd behind Livius and swung his sword from his head height down to cut Livius. He successfully landed a small cut on Livius’ chest but right after cutting his opponent, Livius turned around and cut Sojan horizontally across his chest. Sojan flinched but instantly regained his focus.

Sojan: "Oof, don't think I'll be backing out now!”
Livius: "Come!"

Sojan jumped above Livius striking down with all his might but Livius parried the strike and slashed Sojan’s arm. Sojan launched a furious series of stabs at him but Livius blocked each stab, but one sneaky stroke allowed Sojan finally hit him, slicing Livius’ chin.

Livius:" Huh, you got me?"

Livius switched from defense to offense and cut Sojan horizontally once more and kicked him away.

Sojan:"Oof, you're plenty strong, but I’m not done yet!"

Sojan shunpo’d in front of Livius clashing swords with him and after increasing his resolve finally managed to land a light cut to his left leg up to his right shoulder. Sojan then tried to follow with a punch but Livius grabbed it, kicked his sword away and slashed him vertically down his chest. Sojan feigned falling to his knee but then shunpo'd out of range, grabbing his sword again and followed with a slash to Livius’ side. Livius attempted to retaliate but before going any further, Captain-Commander Senya Tatami stopped the fight.

Senya: “Livius you can go now.”
Livius Abel: “Hm, whatever”

Livius shunpo’d away without another word. Sojan looked confidently at the Captain-Commander. She looked at the two Captains, Kie Geißt and Yani Kohei, before looking back at Sojan.

Senya: “I have seen enough. How do you think you’ve done Harimakku Sojan?”
Sojan: “I’ve worked very hard and I gave my all, ma’am!”
Senya: “Well it seems those Captains were right to recommend you. Congratulations new Hachibantai taichou, Harimakku Sojan.” (hachibantai = squad 8))
Sojan: “Thank you ma’am, I won’t let you or Soul Society down!”

Kie Geißt brandished the 8th Division Captain’s haori to which Sojan gleefully received from her. He proudly put it on, bowed respectfully at the three Captains before leaving for the 8th Division barracks to meet his new Division.

[Sojan and his tragic event of the past]

this event happened 50 years ago when Sojan was 66 years old

His brother Harimakku Eiyiro and Sojan dreamt of being captain and vice captains together. Eiyiro was supposed to be the captain since he was the older brother and Sojan wanted to be his vice captain. Though that couldn't happen since Eiyiro is gone.......

On one rainy day Sojan and Eiyiro have been practicing somewhere in the rukongai in the middle of a forest. They already passed the academy long ago and became unseated shinigamis.

Sojan: "Oi! Eiyiro how's your work on bankai?"

Eiyiro:"Mehh... it's okay though.. i've only trained for it in 3 months.... don't expect me to master it so quickly.."

Sojan:"Yeah...i guess you're right, nii-sama."

Eiyiro: "by the way Sojan, how's your shikai doing? i heard you learned to change it's form"

Sojan:"Oh about that... I kinda guess i can..."

They began swinging their swords at each other fighting for some moment. Then......Suddenly a rustle was heard in the bush nearby them.

Eiyiro:"What was that? Has someone been watching us? lets check it Sojan.

Sojan:"Nii-sama......we should just continue with training, it's probably not that importnant. It was probably the wind.

Eiyiro:"It's impossible for that to be just some mere wind, come. Sojan"

Eiyiro hurried off in the deep forest while Sojan tried to catch up with him. After a while Sojan hears sword clashes he hurried off to where he heard it, he finally came to the destination but there Eiyiro was on his knees bleeding from his left arm shoulder down to his palms.

Sojan:"nii-sama! What happened? Was that the work of hollows?"

Eiyiro:"ugh....damn it.... it wasn't a hollow...it was him...

Sojan:"Who?"

Eiyiro:"ugh....the murderer who killed our mom and dad.........

Sojan:"What? But he was supposed to be jailed..."

Eiyiro:"i know....Either he escaped or he used some sort of illusion, but anyways i saw him with a mask on his face.....similiar to a hollow's, nonetheless i sweat i will kill him.....

Sojan:"What? that's weird a mask?, anyways nii-sama don't get to angered we should seek for help and let them handle this case, for now we should head ba.......nii-sama!"

Eiyiro hurried off chasing the murderer while Sojan again tried to search for him, after a while he sees the murderer and his brother fight. The murderer is getting the advantage against Eiyiro slashing him at his arms and legs. Soon Eiyiro gets stabbed in the stomach and the murderer ran away after stabbing Eiyiro.

Sojan:"nii-sama! what are you doing!! Come lets go back before you die.. nii-sama." Sojan hurried off to Eiyiro, seeing his eyes and his will for bloodlust he could no longer be stopped, he was too enraged, Eiyiro has gotten out of control, Eiyiro shunpos after the murderer.

Several hours have passed, the weather is unchanged, still raining and Sojan still searching for his brother. He walked past some trees and bushes and having seen some blood from it, then he hears dripping. He walked towards the dripping, he saw the dripping 1 foot away from him, the dripping came from above him and there was Eiyiro hanged on a tree branch with a rope on his neck and a sword stabbed through his lungs and blood all over his body dripping down. Sojan was frustrated, he was scared but mostly angered.

Sojan:"NOOOOO!" he shouted taking Eiyiro down. He cried of sorrowness.

Sojan:"why....WHY! nii-sama.... damn it.... Why...couldn't you just stopped and come back... we could've gotten him together...we could've both...Why!? why did you have to rush off that quickly....did you hate him that much?"

A day has passed since his brother's murder and a funeral was held for his brother. And on that day Sojan swore he would rise to the ranks of captains, he swore he would protect anyone he loved, he swore that someday he will find the murderer of his brother and he swore that he would KILL him.....

((my second post ^.^ if there's anything wrong about it then jut tell me :D))

I'm going to be away for six weeks. When I come back, I'll begin posting again. Good luck to everyone.

Hey guys, sorry for being absent for so long!!! I had some things to atend to that made my time very short as a consequence. But I'm back. So I'll be editing my post shortly. :)

Why is no one posting?

We will all need to coordinate through this now and or the e-mail feature on here as they have done-away with the IM function. That was a profoundly idiotic move, but whatever. Let's start planning what we'll do next. :)

I can help you, Akonta. We can all plan something really cool that involves our characters. I'm sure Ryu and K0V would be on-board. Which, of course, your participation would make it easier. K0V and me against you and Ryu. :P

I'id also love posting. But I'm waiting for Ryu's post as he will be using my character. So I can't post for now. :(