[BSD-RP] Soul Society: Central Seireitei

[BSD]

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The fairy of a man concludes his report, Higen’s silence along with many others’ resonating throughout the hall as Yu confidently retreats into his stationary position in line. A reassuring grin seems to begin creeping over his face just before—
”A change in protocol? What a joke.”
This couldn’t be good, Kyomu’s voice like a hail of daggers as it bellows throughout the meeting hall. He was bound to be heard; it was his will. His posture shifts to that of a confrontational man with Captain Nakamoto in the crosshairs of his topaz eyes that danced against porcelain sclera.
”Those that live by the sword, die by it. No one signed up for this job expecting to remain in one piece all the time. Every soul that has gone through the Academy, that wields a Zanpakuto should have already known the risk.”
If there was one thing that could define Kyomu it was his dutiful nature, understanding the role he is meant to play in the balance of things without fault—from the sound of it, he understood the role of the Shinigami as a whole. To take the role of a soldier is to expect casualty, to enter every battle with the mentality that it is your last. This is the spirit of a fighter, a warrior. Odd to hear them coming from the mouth of an Assassin, a disciple of shadow and deceipt.
”If they’re afraid of getting hurt, then too bad. Tell them to hurry up and die so someone who’s willing to put in the work can fill their spot. We don’t have time to coddle weaklings. Stop crying about their booboos, we’re shinigami. We fight, we get hurt. Deal with it.”
Perhaps his wording wasn’t the best, but Higen was aware of Kyomu’s meaning. The man was never known for being compassionate and friendly, and there was no Captain here that was a stranger to his nature. To expect anything else would prove blasphemous, futile, and would belittle the devious acts he’d spent his entire Shinigami career committing. Higen was in no rush to look at his division members as disposable, but he could only hope they’d have calculated the risks, especially considering how much adversity the Division faced compared to others. Just like his voice, Kyomu’s gaze is sharp and direct like the blade in his possession, seemingly cutting through the feelings and integrity of the Fourth Division Captain that had been perceived as sensitive just from his exterior—most knew better than this.
"Look, the last thing I need is a lecture about my priorities… especially from you,"
The fairy strikes at the serpent, attempting to banish the phantom from lecturing him today, or any day after.
“The Shinigami you serve as their Captain don’t exist to just be your pawns– each and every one of them have their own dreams, their own ambitions. They aren’t just flesh bags you can dispose of at your order. With that type of logic… well, you're not any better than the prisoners of the Maggot's Nest that you failed to keep locked away.”
“Can you even count on two hands the number of good men you’ve sent to their graves because of your orders? Can you count it at all?”
"Why am I even surprised... what more could I expect from a traitorous snake like you."
Well then. It was only a matter of time until he finally snapped. The amount of pressure Yu must’ve felt, how on edge he may have been the last half-a-year alone. The life of Captains, seated officers, all in his hands. If they were to perish, he would be the only one held accountable. The life of the head Medical Officer was not an easy one, Captain Nakamato deserved this little outburst.
"Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die."
And here he thought Maho was the poet, Captain Oda’s words surprisingly a somewhat useful tool to deescalate the situation that was soon to be at hand while also effectively transitioning to his report.
"Captain Oda of the Fifth Division and Kido Corps."
"Upon the return to my barracks a Priestess greeted me with information concerning the Kōtotsu event from five months ago. As they went through the Dangai records, Fifth Division was able to uncover records for the date of the event. It shows that all Kōtotsu traffic was rerouted by the Fifth Division for a Kiniro Yorugao of Eighth Division. Kiniro was meant to be trafficking some souls through the Dangai for emergency transport. Because of this, the Kōryū (拘流, Wresting Flow) was rerouted to allow traffic. This means that a Kotetsu should not have appeared, and its appearance was unnatural. Something within the Dangai redirected the Kotetsu back."
Oh? This added an entirely different layer of concern to the Kotetsu Event, and perhaps it even confirms the suspicions Higen had already had himself. It did not feel accidental, or like happenstance—anyone there could attest to this. This was a preemptive attack, and maybe.. just maybe Higen had seen the person or thing responsible. His vision becomes convoluted, flashes of the creature appearing before him as the Kido Corps Commander continues to speak.
"My hypothesis on this is that someone tampered with the Kōryū in some way, who that someone is I do not know but I will launch an investigation into the events around this Kiniro Yorugao person. He may have been innocent but his existence in the Dangai is the only lead I have to go on. I also speculate that the reason this information reached me so late is that whoever was behind it thinks that this information is no longer a threat to them, perhaps purposely leaving bread crumbs to distract us from their next move... Ah uhh... This is just my paranoia speaking, forgive me."
“No. That’s not paranoia.. that’s intuition.”
He speaks loudly, clearly—most would be surprised to hear him say something towards Captain Oda that wasn’t threatening or malicious, or any words at all. The truth was that Tenzen’s words were filled with resonance, and possible fact. This threat—if it is truly what he saw—far supersedes any quarrel between captains. Well, was that the end of the report? Perhaps he purposely chose not to address the-
"Also, you are all aware of the event that took place two months ago. Needless to say, I am at fault for that ever happening as I am the one who opened the pot. I had thoughts cross my mind not to open it, perhaps things would have turned out better, perhaps they could have gotten worse, that is irrelevant now. I had orders to open it and so I did, that's all there is to it unless anyone here is bold enough to go against the absolute word of the Commander when he gives an order?"
Oh? He dared use the Commander as a crutch for his actions? The responsibility, liability, blame, was all his and his alone. To bring the Commander into it was belittling to his status as the Head Captain. Our mistakes were not his.
"As of right now my affliction is under control, yes I understand that I may slip and the Hollow may take over. Yes, I understand that I can be a danger to the Seireitei and the Soul Society. Yes, I understand the other two are in the same boat as me, however, instead of seeing us as ticking time bombs look at us as valuable military assets."
Higen lets out a scoff loud enough to shake the room, his formerly open palm clenches into a fist as his bracers tighten around his forearm and wrist.
"If granted enough time we can train and hone this new power to use against the enemies of the Soul Society. The significant power boost it gives can be used as a valuable trump card on the field of battle. Once we garner more control over the Inner Hollow we will be a natural deterrent for Quincy should they ever regroup and become a threat to us. Who's to say that the old way of stopping their Bankai stealing abilities will work again. It is not a power that any of use desired or even thought about but now that we have it we will use it to benefit the Soul Society."
"That's it for my report."
For a moment there is hesitance, an eerie silence that fills the room. Higen leans forward confidently, his brows bent at their interior to imitate anger in its purest form.
“Tch… What a man. You attempt to take accountability and then use the word of the Commander just seconds later to attempt to scare any of us away from challenging the foolishness of your mistakes. You make a valid case, and you may have the others fooled but not me. I see right through it, the doubt that comes behind your so-called reassuring factors seeps through your tone. You are scared.”
He steps forward, separating himself from the Captains in line beside him to face Captain Oda more sternly, towering over him—the very stare he set upon him was like a violent lashing, the curl at the base of his lip in disappointment equivalent to the harshest scolding.
“Valuable military assets as opposed to ticking time bombs? How about a compromise.. I’ll perceive all of you as both. You speak of time to train—time we don’t have. Something is coming.. It’s..”
He grits his teeth, his voice trailing off before he regathers himself, his hand raising in front of him to truly represent his frustration.
“I’m well aware of the power your.. unfortunate mutation boasts. A power that may help us in the possible war that lurks on the horizon. And maybe.. just maybe you have everything under control for now.
But…

“The day will come when you don’t.. and if on that day you show me you are a threat to myself, the Gotei 13, anything or anyone I hold dear—With everyone here as my witness...”
“I won’t hesitate to rip you, and that mask.. in half.”
This was no threat.. but rather a contractual agreement. He cared not for the judgement of his comrades, he was far past the point of upholding facades and perfect images. He would do anything within the best interests of Gotei 13, anything to make sure they had the opportunity to stand here again in the future. Higen untenses, settling back into his spot as Maho’s voice lurks just like the smoke he continued to exhale. Higen figured he was in the right mind to assume it was to begin his report, until—
“There are still a few things that need to come to light...
For what it's worth. Yu's comments brought something to my attention. If Kyomu was truly a traitor. How is it that he still stands among us? Have "YU" put any thought as to w h y y y that is?
I had my money on him dying that day. I wasn’t gunna waste valuable time standing by for something as stupid as that.”
“Yet here he breaths. Relatively unscathed. I’m sure those mental scars ain’t holding up too well. But then again...who’s are? I can't help but believe he had his reasons for puttin' his neck in the noose; willingly.
Kyomu is annoying. He is traitorous; and he Fasho’ is a snake. But he’s our traitorous snake. Yeah his words are harsh, but he barely means that himself.
Cut the kid some slack. You don’t have enough information yet to pass that judgement....
Maybe...JUST maybe, if we had more hands. Had either of you been free to assist me. Had less of us been idle, doing nothing...
Then Captain Higen would have had no need to risk his life.
Maybe having all of our active Captains present would have been the
P r o t o c o l you felt the need to bitch at as us about.
You had a problem with how I do things? Then If you had something to say... you shoulda’ just said it...
The Dragon Roars, to defend the honor of himself and.. Higen valiantly. Perhaps he was right. Perhaps had they acted sooner, in larger numbers, the large piece of Higen that was ripped out during that coma would still be there. Perhaps the Shining Knight’s armor would be whole. Kyomu was their traitorous snake.. perhaps Tenzen was their Vizard Captain. Even still, Higen’s promise would stand, it was his duty.. or at the very least he perceived it to be.
“"As far as I'm concerned, the handful in here who did act against the Kototsu did so to the best of their ability. There was nothing standard about what transpired. There are few rules for disaster. And that’s exactly what it was. Let’s not sugar coat. None of what Tenzen has said explains why this specific Kototsu was twice as large and twice as fast as a normal one. From what I recall. Its path was deliberate. It moved with purpose...”
“What fate would you prefer for the souls of the Rukongai? Accidental death by my hands? Displacement by the Kototsu and left to space and time? How bout a deliberate death at the hands of the Head captain? How different would this meeting have been had we all failed? For the sake of balance, I doubt The commander would have held anything back. We may have lost more lives from that alone.
As far as I'm concerned, those that acted did so, giving us something to stand here and debate about should and shouldn’t-have happened...
If you weren't there to see it. If you weren’t there to lend a hand in stopping it, then keep that pretty mouth of yours shut..."
“Otherwise, we can take this outside...”
Fires burned, the Captains truly at odds like a band of bickering siblings in the face of all the turmoil they were forced to face such a short time ago.
"Any Information you need on this, Yorugao, I can provide you after the meeting. Your thought process is sound and sits with what I've discovered in my investigation. Youve even gone as far as too unnecessarily justify your new found stregnth to the rest of us. There is little need TenZen San. The Commander has already made that choice for us. Anyone with any forethought could see that with their eyes closed. Had it no use, you’d have died before our very eyes.
There are more important matters than that. Questions still left unanswered. Namely about that pot itself...”
”Why was it created? For what purpose. Does it serve? There is scarce information on its creation anywhere in the Soul Society. Why was it moved that day specifically? Not only did it disappear; but you returned moments later with it in your custody. I suppose Captain Tenzen cannot give us an answer to any of these questions. No...
So tell us...
Head Captain..Murasaki...
...What have those eyes seen...
...that we cannot..?
Higen sighs, his eyes closing for a moment as his body relaxes. The Seireitei was a well of secrets and mystery, and even someone as well-informed as Maho couldn’t handle it all.
“The mind of a reporter never rests. If you believe the Commander will even entertain your interrogation, or offer you any sort of justification.. there’s still much to learn Young Maho. It’s best to just continue with your report.”
He stated sternly, knowing that the old man wouldn’t even bother responding.. or speaking, unless he truly felt like doing it himself. Plus, the sooner they were finished the meeting and had all the information they needed to proceed… the better.

 

[BSD]

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Kyomu’s arms remain crossed over his chest, eyes void of light, joy..compassion. Kyomu was notoriously known for being a stranger to sympathy, the exact opposite of little Yū.
"Look, the last thing I need is a lecture about my priorities… especially from you,"
Captain Nakamoto’s voice snaps back, his expression darker, harsher than it had been before. It was clear that the Phantom had struck a chord within the Doctor.

”What did you just say?”
He barks back, voice harsh, the intensity of his glare intensifying. His arms unfurl as he takes a single step towards his fellow Captain, staring down at him. Just who did he think he was talking to?
“The Shinigami you serve as their Captain don’t exist to just be your pawns– each and every one of them have their own dreams, their own ambitions. They aren’t just flesh bags you can dispose of at your order. With that type of logic… well, you're not any better than the prisoners of the Maggot's Nest that you failed to keep locked away.”
Just as Kyomu struck a chord with Yū, the fairy reciprocated the favor. He grits his teeth, Xiaolin’s image flashes before his eyes, his anger swells — pushing against the emotional seams of the ghostly Captain.
“Can you even count on two hands the number of good men you’ve sent to their graves because of your orders? Can you count it at all?”
Kyomu’s hand finds itself on the handle of his zanpakuto, his grip fiercely tight. His mind is forced back to that time at the First Division Barracks. Subordinates that he thought he had kept in the dark, thought to be ignorant of his orders and the actions he would be taking stand beside him. The Elders of his clan having chosen them to be the sacrifices, the disposable pawns meant to aid the Captain in his mission. His other subordinate, cut down by Lieutenant Oki while trying desperately to save the one thing everyone knew was dear to the Captain, regardless of what he said — Yasu.
Kyomu trained his men harshly, berated them for failure and foolishness, but...he tried his best to protect them. He carefully chose who to send on what missions, was meticulous in choosing his words spoken and words needed to be restrained.
”How dare yo-”
"Why am I even surprised... what more could I expect from a traitorous snake like you."
That was it. Kyomu wouldn’t indulge the disrespect from this little boy who didn’t know anything about the world of shadows. Yū complained about having to see the injured come in and out of the hospital like a revolving door, cried about the death of those he could not save.
He didn’t know anything.
He knows nothing about the world of secrets, about those who smile and call themselves peers and comrades while plotting in the shadows. About the constant battling against forces and powers that would disturb the balance from within the walls of the Seireitei and outside them. Yū stands there, upset at Kyomu’s harsh words, sanctimonious and naive little fairy. He knows nothing about the position Kyomu was forced into, the things he was forced to do, see...and endure. To have someone who’s never had to risk their life...to risk anything to stand in judgement of him? No, he wouldn’t allow that to pass. He moved to retrieve his blade from its wooden scabbard and-
"Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die."
Captain Oda’s voice wedges itself between the two hostile Captains, seeking to diffuse an already volatile situation. Kyomu’s venomous gaze forcefully pulls itself from Captain Nakamoto, a would-be corpse if not for the intervention of the Oda.
"Captain Oda of the Fifth Division and Kido Corps."
The newest of the Captains and, one of the three Vizards announces himself, and takes the stage. The Phantom glances at the Fairy once more, though his desire to pluck the wings off it were still strong...he scoffs and releases the grip on his blade, returning to his place to listen to what the Oda had to say.
"Upon the return to my barracks a Priestess greeted me with information concerning the Kōtotsu event from five months ago. As they went through the Dangai records, Fifth Division was able to uncover records for the date of the event. It shows that all Kōtotsu traffic was rerouted by the Fifth Division for a Kiniro Yorugao of Eighth Division. Kiniro was meant to be trafficking some souls through the Dangai for emergency transport. Because of this, the Kōryū (拘流, Wresting Flow) was rerouted to allow traffic. This means that a Kotetsu should not have appeared, and its appearance was unnatural. Something within the Dangai redirected the Kotetsu back."
Kyomu’s expression remains inscrutable. Still, this was news to the Phantom as he is sure it was to the others present.
"My hypothesis on this is that someone tampered with the Kōryū in some way, who that someone is I do not know but I will launch an investigation into the events around this Kiniro Yorugao person. He may have been innocent but his existence in the Dangai is the only lead I have to go on. I also speculate that the reason this information reached me so late is that whoever was behind it thinks that this information is no longer a threat to them, perhaps purposely leaving bread crumbs to distract us from their next move... Ah uhh... This is just my paranoia speaking, forgive me."
“No. That’s not paranoia.. that’s intuition.”
Kyomu glances curiously towards the towering titan of a Captain. Odd, that he would reassure the Vizard Oda of his thoughts and suspicions. But - was that it? Surely there had to be something else to go off of, they were left with more questions than answers. How would they address this issue, and what more was Tenzen Oda doing to supply the answers to the many unvoiced questions?
"Also, you are all aware of the event that took place two months ago. Needless to say, I am at fault for that ever happening as I am the one who opened the pot. I had thoughts cross my mind not to open it, perhaps things would have turned out better, perhaps they could have gotten worse, that is irrelevant now. I had orders to open it and so I did, that's all there is to it unless anyone here is bold enough to go against the absolute word of the Commander when he gives an order?"
”....”
Kyomu says nothing but, he above everyone here..no, perhaps he is the only one of the present Captains who could understand Tenzen’s position. Like the Oda, Kyomu had been tasked with a mission, given direct orders which he could not defy. Like Tenzen, Kyomu lives everyday, judged by the actions of others for obeying those same orders. Perhaps, in this way both he and Tenzen are kindred souls.
"As of right now my affliction is under control, yes I understand that I may slip and the Hollow may take over. Yes, I understand that I can be a danger to the Seireitei and the Soul Society. Yes, I understand the other two are in the same boat as me, however, instead of seeing us as ticking time bombs look at us as valuable military assets."
Kyomu does not judge Tenzen for his affliction, to do so would mean he placed Yasu under that same dark light.
"If granted enough time we can train and hone this new power to use against the enemies of the Soul Society. The significant power boost it gives can be used as a valuable trump card on the field of battle. Once we garner more control over the Inner Hollow we will be a natural deterrent for Quincy should they ever regroup and become a threat to us. Who's to say that the old way of stopping their Bankai stealing abilities will work again. It is not a power that any of use desired or even thought about but now that we have it we will use it to benefit the Soul Society.
That's it for my report."
Kyomu’s eyes close, he like the others have nothing to sa-
“Tch… What a man. You attempt to take accountability and then use the word of the Commander just seconds later to attempt to scare any of us away from challenging the foolishness of your mistakes. You make a valid case, and you may have the others fooled but not me. I see right through it, the doubt that comes behind your so-called reassuring factors seeps through your tone. You are scared.”
Kyomu’s eyes spring open, trailing over towards Captain Kagayaki. The fractured Knight in tarnished armor bellows out his anger. Funny, he speaks of the Oda’s fear but...perhaps the seasoned Captain was reflecting. He claims Tenzen is scared, but the Phantom could tell...Higen was also scared — of what, he couldn’t say just yet.
The giant of a man breaks rank, stepping out to stand before the Oda in confrontation, towering over his hollowfied peer twice over.
“Valuable military assets as opposed to ticking time bombs? How about a compromise.. I’ll perceive all of you as both. You speak of time to train—time we don’t have. Something is coming.. It’s..”
The Captain is clearly rattled by something, could it be the source of the fear within the Knight? Higen grits his teeth, struggling to restrain himself, to gather his bearings.
“I’m well aware of the power your.. unfortunate mutation boasts. A power that may help us in the possible war that lurks on the horizon. And maybe.. just maybe you have everything under control for now.
But…
A brief moment of hesitation.
“The day will come when you don’t.. and if on that day you show me you are a threat to myself, the Gotei 13, anything or anyone I hold dear—With everyone here as my witness...”
“I won’t hesitate to rip you, and that mask.. in half.”
The situation amongst the Captains had once again, spiralled out of control, thrown into a river of hostility. Would the new Captain, the current target of Higen’s anger speak as he had done so before to de-escalate things?
”There are still a few things that need to come to light...
For what it's worth. Yu's comments brought something to my attention. If Kyomu was truly a traitor. How is it that he still stands among us? Have "YU" put any thought as to w h y y y that is?
I had my money on him dying that day. I wasn’t gunna waste valuable time standing by for something as stupid as that.”
An annoying voice creeps its way into the room, and for the first time...the fool makes sense. Everyone calls Kyomu traitor, questions his actions, questions the existence of himself, and now even the Vizards..but do not question the actions of the Commander. Smart.
Perhaps ignoring the fact that the Dragon brings up made it easier for them to lash out, point fingers and do everything they already desired to do while feeling justified.
“Yet here he breaths. Relatively unscathed. I’m sure those mental scars ain’t holding up too well. But then again...who’s are? I can't help but believe he had his reasons for puttin' his neck in the noose; willingly.
Kyomu is annoying. He is traitorous; and he Fasho’ is a snake. But he’s our traitorous snake. Yeah his words are harsh, but he barely means that himself.”
The Phantom sneers at the last portion of the Captain’s words, eying him sharply from across the room.
”Cut the kid some slack. You don’t have enough information yet to pass that judgement.... Maybe...JUST maybe, if we had more hands. Had either of you been free to assist me. Had less of us been idle, doing nothing... Then Captain Higen would have had no need to risk his life. Maybe having all of our active Captains present would have been the
P r o t o c o l you felt the need to bitch at us about. You had a problem with how I do things? Then If you had something to say... you shoulda’ just said it…”
The dragon finally confronts the very one who subtly confronted him, prior to Kyomu’s intervention. His cigar burnt out, the Captain removes it from his lips and goes to retrieve a fresh one. He ignites the tip of the cigar, void of any visible source. Maho isn’t one to have an elemental type zanpakuto, his reiatsu is also not of the flame type. Could it be...is that-
"As far as I'm concerned, the handful in here who did act against the Kototsu did so to the best of their ability. There was nothing standard about what transpired. There are few rules for disaster. And that’s exactly what it was. Let’s not sugar coat. None of what Tenzen has said explains why this specific Kototsu was twice as large and twice as fast as a normal one. From what I recall. Its path was deliberate. It moved with purpose…”
Captain Kojima is once again, uncharacteristically correct. There was nothing standard about that disaster, nothing at all. When faced with a Kototsu in the dangai, the protocol is typically to flee as quickly as one can. So, what does one do when there is nowhere to flee? When a creature they are meant to avoid lands in their very yard?
"What fate would you prefer for the souls of the Rukongai? Accidental death by my hands? Displacement by the Kototsu and left to space and time? How bout a deliberate death at the hands of the Head captain? How different would this meeting have been had we all failed? For the sake of balance, I doubt The commander would have held anything back. We may have lost more lives from that alone.
As far as I'm concerned, those that acted did so, giving us something to stand here and debate about should and shouldn’t-have happened...
If you weren't there to see it. If you weren’t there to lend a hand in stopping it, then keep that pretty mouth of yours shut..."
“Otherwise, we can take this outside...”
The Dragon challenges the Fairy. Would little Yū accept?
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No. As upset as the fairy was, as angry as he was, Captain Nakamoto knew better to act on those emotions. He was a healer through and through, an empath, but a fool he was not...despite his previous bold words against the Phantom showing otherwise.
"Any Information you need on this, Yorugao, I can provide you after the meeting. Your thought process is sound and sits with what I've discovered in my investigation. Youve even gone as far as too unnecessarily justify your new found strength to the rest of us. There is little need TenZen San. The Commander has already made that choice for us. Anyone with any forethought could see that with their eyes closed. Had it no use, you’d have died before our very eyes.”
Surprisingly well spoken. Maho should have left it at that, should have left on a high note...he did not, could not.
”There are more important matters than that. Questions still left unanswered. Namely about that pot itself...Why was it created? For what purpose. Does it serve? There is scarce information on its creation anywhere in the Soul Society. Why was it moved that day specifically? Not only did it disappear; but you returned moments later with it in your custody. I suppose Captain Tenzen cannot give us an answer to any of these questions. No...
So tell us...
Head Captain..Murasaki...
...What have those eyes seen...
...that we cannot..?”

The idiot, he means to question the Commander now? Kyomu is just as curious as his idiotic cohort, but knows that he is in no position to demand answers. Regardless, the Dragon has voiced his interrogation in a manner that can’t be seen as entirely disrespectful. Was this done intently….no. It had to be luck, Maho wasn’t intelligent enough to dance around his words like that. Right?

 

[BSD]

After a brief walk down a few hall ways, minding to avoid the Captains meeting and going the longest way around possible. Kiku slowly came just outside the barracks. There he would reach up and knock on the door to Honoka's Office. Shortly after knocking a brisk three times, he would lazily announce; " Head Lieutenant Oki, It's Kiku. May i come in?" Lowering his and and putting it back inside his sleeves, Kiku would await her answer. Taking a step back over towards the edge of the walk way, he would stare off into the clouds. The giant white balls drifting over the Captains meeting had shades of gray in the fluff around the edges. An ill omen or happenstance? Kiku sighed and looked back towards the door. What would he do if she wasn't in? He wondered while staring at the wood grain, that made up the door. Small vertical patterns dotted with edges and grooves. Turning back towards the sky Kiku, as he did he heard a scuffle and a voice from behind the door. ' Did she say to come in? or to wait? Uh oh....' Sighing he would lift off the railing he unintentionally found himself leaning on, and made his way back to the door. Eyeing the handle with his lazy purple eyes, Kiku gripped it with his left hand and opened the door.
The first thing that hit him was how fresh the air felt in Lt Oki's office, He darted his eyes around, noticing the plants and arrangements that decorated the office. Hoping he had heard right, Kiku would lean in and shut the door behind him. It was well lit and the sunlight filtering in set iridescent rays of light off the reflective surfaces in the room. Kiku slowly lifted his hand up and out of his sleeve before he spoke. " Hello, Lieutenant Oki, How are you doing. It's been a while hasn't it." His deep, lazy voice would be nearly as she remembered it. Not a single change in demeanor either, he still was tall and lanky with a bit off slouch in his stance.
Nearly without thinking he would put his hand back into his sleeves before smiling under his mask and sincerely bowing his head to her. Lazily looking back up he would proceed to motion if it was okay for him to sit down. If so he would do so at an empty chair in front of her desk. Resting his hands on his knees and slouching forward, While sighing he would start with; " I stopped by because i was wondering if you would allow me to seek transfer to Fifth Division, Under Captain Oda. I believe his division and wisdom will give me insight i have yet attained alone. Until then i don't think i am worthy of serving First Division." He was blunt, and to the point. A feature rarely displayed by Kiku, usually he would avoid such connotations by joking or making a game of the situation. However he felt it was always best to be straight up with the Head Lieutenant. Looking at Honoka's ever peaceful face, soon he drifted to the window and its fractals of light bouncing through it.

 

[BSD]

The young Captain continues looking onward, dismissing Kyomu’s cold glare with ease. Yū knows his words hold weight and they have struck a chord within the Phantom… good. Perhaps next time, he would think twice before shifting his tone towards the Head Doctor.
"Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die," Captain Oda chimes in, his way at diffusing the thick tension in the room. His aphorism would do nothing to influence the young Captain– Tenzen obviously misinterpreted Yū’s viewpoint. In the Fairy’s eyes, Kyomu was the poison and the best solution would be to discard it like the toxic thing it was. The Phantom scoffs and assumes his position beside him once more as Tenzen initiates his report.
"Captain Oda of the Fifth Division and Kido Corps."

“Upon the return to my barracks, a Priestess greeted me with information concerning the Kōtotsu event from five months ago. As they went through the Dangai records, Fifth Division was able to uncover records for the date of the event. It shows that all Kōtotsu traffic was rerouted by the Fifth Division for a Kiniro Yorugao of Eighth Division. Kiniro was meant to be trafficking some souls through the Dangai for emergency transport. Because of this, the Kōryū (拘流, Wresting Flow) was rerouted to allow traffic. This means that a Kōtotsu should not have appeared, and its appearance was unnatural. Something within the Dangai redirected the Kōtotsu back."
Yū is hauntingly silent at this news… was there truly more to the story of the Kōtotsu’s sudden appearance? Or was this rambling just incoherent thoughts the Captain had formulated during his slumber?
"My hypothesis on this is that someone tampered with the Kōryū in some way, who that someone is I do not know but I will launch an investigation into the events around this Kiniro Yorugao person. He may have been innocent but his existence in the Dangai is the only lead I have to go on. I also speculate that the reason this information reached me so late is that whoever was behind it thinks that this information is no longer a threat to them, perhaps purposely leaving bread crumbs to distract us from their next move...
Ah uhh... This is just my paranoia speaking, forgive me."
‘As I thought… what else could explain some wild idea like th–’ the young Captain reflects to himself before a deep, rougher voice enters to assure Tenzen.
“No. That’s not paranoia... that’s intuition.”
In sync with the Phantom, Yū’s head turns to steal a glance at Higen. He seemed to be fully convinced by Captain Oda’s observations, almost as if he too, could verify the Vizard’s hypothesis. A seed of doubt plants itself within Yū Nakamoto. Captain Kagayaki wasn’t one to waste words and admittedly with the experience Higen held, Yū trusted him with his life. If he was concerned… maybe Tenzen’s wild idea wasn’t so improbable at all. What else did he know… what did Higen himself see in his dreams during his three-month rest as well as the moments leading up to it? Yū’s attention is drawn back to Tenzen as he continues his report, turning his head back around to face him.
“Also, you are all aware of the event that took place two months ago. Needless to say, I am at fault for that ever happening as I am the one who opened the pot…”
So, he was the one to blame for Yasu, Arashi, and his own affliction. Including the Kuchiki Killer himself and the rest of his clan, it seemed Tenzen had collected a number of bodies in his short tenure as Captain. In fact, it was the very same day he had been promoted if Yū could recall correctly. ‘He sure jumped the gun, didn’t he…’ the young Captain thinks.
“I had thoughts cross my mind not to open it, perhaps things would have turned out better, perhaps they could have gotten worse, that is irrelevant now. I had orders to open it and so I did, that's all there is to it unless anyone here is bold enough to go against the absolute word of the Commander when he gives an order?"
The Fairy remains dead silent, not out of fear of his words but out of shock… did Captain Oda truly intend to hide behind the shadow of the Commander to explain his oversight? An oversight that cost the lives of virtually an entire Noble family as well as forever changing the lives of the innocent Yasu Yugure and Arashi Suta against their own will? How pitiful… even Yū would’ve been brave enough to admit his own faults, especially one as substantial as this. However, he doesn't speak out– The young Captain knows better than to kick someone while they're already down. He understands Tenzen has already paid the ultimate price, cursed to live the rest of his existence in this form, living no longer as just any ordinary Shinigami. His very essence has become tainted from that day and it would persist until the end of days.
Even then, a twinge of guilt finds a place within Yū's chest. When he was promoted to Captain of the Fourth Division, he had taken an oath to protect and care for every single Shinigami in the Soul Society. Just because the three of them weren’t classified as ordinary Shinigami anymore… didn’t mean his promise was suddenly no longer applicable to them. Despite his negative feelings towards Tenzen, the young Captain is unable to shake the dire need to save him… to save them all and forever extinguish the Hollow power that grows inside them with every passing moment. But, something as grand as this… he couldn’t fathom doing it alone.
"As of right now my affliction is under control, yes I understand that I may slip and the Hollow may take over. Yes, I understand that I can be a danger to the Seireitei and the Soul Society. Yes, I understand the other two are in the same boat as me, however, instead of seeing us as ticking time bombs look at us as valuable military assets."
‘No… we should be looking for a cure to this. A way to reverse these effects… Only a fool would be so comfortable with these conditions. The risk is far too great…’ It seemed Higen agreed with Yū’s train of thought, a world-shaking grunt erupting from the Shining Knight. The young Captain could feel Higen’s anger rising… he didn’t like the sound of that at all. However, Tenzen pushes on, undisturbed.
"If granted enough time we can train and hone this new power to use against the enemies of the Soul Society. The significant power boost it gives can be used as a valuable trump card on the field of battle. Once we garner more control over the Inner Hollow we will be a natural deterrent for Quincy should they ever regroup and become a threat to us. Who's to say that the old way of stopping their Bankai stealing abilities will work again. It is not a power that any of us desired or even thought about but now that we have it we will use it to benefit the Soul Society."
‘I know he’s trying to be optimistic… but, he really is a lunatic,’ Yū concludes, a hopeless sigh escaping him.
"That's it for my report."
The trembling giant besides Yū refuses to sit back in silence. His statuesque frames leans forward, barking at the Fifth Division Captain.
“Tch… What a man. You attempt to take accountability and then use the word of the Commander just seconds later to attempt to scare any of us away from challenging the foolishness of your mistakes. You make a valid case, and you may have the others fooled but not me. I see right through it, the doubt that comes behind your so-called reassuring factors seeps through your tone. You are scared.”
His eyes never leave the sight of Tenzen, witnessing every single reaction to Captain Kagayaki’s heavy hitting words and his slow, menacing approach. He wasn’t wrong in Yū’s eyes but… if any of them were in Captain Oda’s position, who wouldn’t be scared? It had become clear to the young Captain that Tenzen was undoubtedly moving in fear… even his words delivered were dripping in uncertainty and hesitation. Would Yū find it in himself to step up to the plate and guide him in his time of strife like he had done for so many others in the past? Surely, no one else was…
“Valuable military assets as opposed to ticking time bombs? How about a compromise... I’ll perceive all of you as both. You speak of time to train—time we don’t have. Something is coming... It’s...”
Yū was right; Higen did know something. But, just what was keeping him from sharing aside from cryptic warnings? Without further acknowledging his prior warning, his tangent takes a shift.
“I’m well aware of the power your.. unfortunate mutation boasts. A power that may help us in the possible war that lurks on the horizon. And maybe.. just maybe you have everything under control for now.
But…”
Suddenly, the room grows cold and chills run down Yū’s body. Goosebumps form on the boy’s skin as he himself shudders from this… presence. The towering aura of Higen Kagayaki washes over the young Captain– it was like he had instantly switched places with Tenzen, now becoming the singular target for this explosive rage.
“The day will come when you don’t.. and if on that day you show me you are a threat to myself, the Gotei 13, anything or anyone I hold dear—With everyone here as my witness...”
“I won’t hesitate to rip you, and that mask.. in half.”
If the Vizard Captain wasn’t in danger already… Higen’s threat made it more than clear. And now, there was a time limit. ‘For his sake… and Yasu… I have to do something… I have to at least try... ’ he contemplates.
“There are still a few things that need to come to light…
For what it's worth. Yu's comments brought something to my attention. If Kyomu was truly a traitor. How is it that he still stands among us? Have "YU" put any thought as to w h y y y that is?”
“What are you going on about this time…” Yū retorts with a sigh, obviously exasperated at Mahō’s constant speculations. Uninterrupted, he continues with his theory.
“I had my money on him dying that day. I wasn’t gunna waste valuable time standing by for something as stupid as that.”
“Yet here he breaths. Relatively unscathed. I’m sure those mental scars ain’t holding up too well. But then again...who’s are? I can't help but believe he had his reasons for puttin' his neck in the noose; willingly.
Kyomu is annoying. He is traitorous; and he Fasho’ is a snake. But he’s our traitorous snake. Yeah his words are harsh, but he barely means that himself.”
‘Our? Speak for yourself... ‘ Coinciding with Kyomu’s sneering, the Fairy rolls his eyes, shifting his vision to the ceiling.
“Cut the kid some slack. You don’t have enough information yet to pass that judgement....
Maybe...JUST maybe, if we had more hands. Had either of you been free to assist me. Had less of us been idle, doing nothing...
Then Captain Higen would have had no need to risk his life.
Maybe having all of our active Captains present would have been the
P r o t o c o l you felt the need to bitch at as us about.
You had a problem with how I do things? Then If you had something to say... you shoulda’ just said it…”
‘Is this how you speak to the person who saved your life…’
"As far as I'm concerned, the handful in here who did act against the Kototsu did so to the best of their ability. There was nothing standard about what transpired. There are few rules for disaster. And that’s exactly what it was. Let’s not sugar coat. None of what Tenzen has said explains why this specific Kototsu was twice as large and twice as fast as a normal one. From what I recall. Its path was deliberate. It moved with purpose…”
His thought process was seemingly on the same wavelength as Captain Oda and Kagayaki… the three Captains who were present at the scene. They had all suspected some sort of foul play… but this was five months ago. Why had it taken them this long to speak out about their theories? Would there even be a culprit left to chase? A path to follow? Tenzen’s theory seemed to be the most probable as he already had a suspect in mind but with his current state and the looming threat of Captain Kagayaki… just how available and accurate would his information be?
“What fate would you prefer for the souls of the Rukongai? Accidental death by my hands? Displacement by the Kototsu and left to space and time? How ‘bout a deliberate death at the hands of the Head Captain? How different would this meeting have been had we all failed? For the sake of balance, I doubt The commander would have held anything back. We may have lost more lives from that alone.
‘Would have... may have… It was still you, you idiot... ‘
"As far as I'm concerned, those that acted did so, giving us something to stand here and debate about should and shouldn’t-have happened…
If you weren't there to see it…”
Yū’s ears perk up, directing his vision now from the ceiling to Captain Kojima. It was clear already these next words were to be directed towards him.
“If you weren’t there to lend a hand in stopping it… then keep that pretty mouth of yours shut...”

His brows instantly furrows and the skin around his nose bunches up as his face tightens. ‘And if I don’t... ‘ he considers silently.
“Otherwise, we can take this outside...”
Contrary to his beliefs of minimizing violence, Yū surprisingly couldn’t find any reason to deny taking up this offer. Finally, the Fairy would be gifted time to show Captain Kojima the meaning of the word ‘respect’. In any other circumstance, he wouldn’t hesitate to accept… but this was a Captains’ meeting. In the presence of their Commander, stepping out of line so recklessly would be synonymous with signing his own death warrant. In this very moment, the most he can do now… is scowl.
"Any Information you need on this, Yorugao, I can provide you after the meeting. Your thought process is sound and sits with what I've discovered in my investigation. You've even gone as far as too unnecessarily justify your new found strength to the rest of us. There is little need Tenzen-San. The Commander has already made that choice for us. Anyone with any forethought could see that with their eyes closed. Had it no use, you’d have died before our very eyes.”
”There are more important matters than that. Questions still left unanswered. Namely about that pot itself...Why was it created? For what purpose. Does it serve? There is scarce information on its creation anywhere in the Soul Society. Why was it moved that day specifically? Not only did it disappear; but you returned moments later with it in your custody. I suppose Captain Tenzen cannot give us an answer to any of these questions. No...
So tell us...
Head Captain..Murasaki...
...What have those eyes seen...
...that we cannot..?”
The young Captain’s glare instantly drops… how brave of him, no, how senseless, to question the Commander in such fashion. While Yū was equally as nosy, no doubt the rest of them were, he couldn’t even fathom having the gall to outright ask like that. His delivery wasn’t as intense as prior, yet still…
“The mind of a reporter never rests. If you believe the Commander will even entertain your interrogation, or offer you any sort of justification.. there’s still much to learn Young Maho. It’s best to just continue with your report,” Higen responds in lieu of the Commander’s supposed silence.
“Is there even anything substantial to report from the 9th Division…?” Yū questions mockingly.
From his sharp tone, it’s more than clear Yū is still irked from Mahō’s invitation for action only moments ago. Knowing he is unable to oblige, at least for the time being, the Fairy calmly settles for scorned words instead.
“All their Captain does anyways is smoke and write and smoke some more.”
He takes a short pause, before hammering the final nail in the coffin.
“I guess mass exterminating Rukongai citizens NEEDLESSLY and without GUILT could be added to that too, huh?”

 

[BSD]

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“Tch… What a man. You attempt to take accountability and then use the word of the Commander just seconds later to attempt to scare any of us away from challenging the foolishness of your mistakes. You make a valid case, and you may have the others fooled but not me. I see right through it, the doubt that comes behind your so-called reassuring factors seeps through your tone. You are scared.”
"I'm sorry, what?"
The voice of Higen Kagayaki cuts through the momentary silence after the report and is quickly followed up by a little voice only Tenzen can hear. Ignoring the voice Tenzen watches the Shining Captain make his way over to him not having the slightest clue as to what is about to happen or be said. Despite this, he remains silent and lets Kagayaki speak uninterrupted.
“Valuable military assets as opposed to ticking time bombs? How about a compromise.. I’ll perceive all of you as both. You speak of time to train—time we don’t have. Something is coming.. It’s..”
Something is coming? Could this coincide with what happened with the Kōtotsu? A preemptive strike against the Soul Society, was that Kōtotsu meant to deal serious damage to them or merely poke at and test their defenses? He needs more information to formulate a proper theory.
“I’m well aware of the power your.. unfortunate mutation boasts. A power that may help us in the possible war that lurks on the horizon. And maybe.. just maybe you have everything under control for now. But… The day will come when you don’t.. and if on that day you show me you are a threat to myself, the Gotei 13, anything or anyone I hold dear—With everyone here as my witness...”
Yes, Tenzen's thoughts were on a subject much greater than himself but he was listening closely to the words of the man he faced to earn his seat as Captain. His "other self" was listening closely too, teeth-gritting and grinding, fists clenched tight enough to draw blood from them, and a low growl to vocalize his rage. The others in the room could not see him but Tenzen could, his Inner Hollow was fuming with rage right now.
“I won’t hesitate to rip you, and that mask.. in half.”
"Just try it! I rip your throat out! I'll rip out your bones and eat them while you die! Tenzen! Don't let him talk to us like this! Rip us in half!? HA! We'll rip him in HALF! Right!? Tenzen?"
Tenzen got exactly what he wanted. By bringing up his Hollowfication he opened up the flood gates to the opinions of the others hoping that someone, anyone, would step up and proclaim themselves as the executioner should his control ever slip. He even purposely misinterpreted the truth to get a rise out of someone by saying that the Commander told him to open the vessel when, in truth, his only order was to transport it. His Inner Hollow falls silent as he slowly begins to understand Tenzen's intentions.
"What's the meaning of this? Why aren't you saying anything!?"
"Beyond everything I have at my disposal my mental strength is the one thing I am most confident in. I needed a contingency plan in case YOU ever decided to overstep your bounds. Give someone an inch and they try to take a mile."
The Hollow was speechless, he has just been trapped between a rock and a hard place. Tenzen, who will restrict and restrain him if he attempts to take over and Higen, who will destroy him should he manage to take control.
"It seems like you understand. I do not wish to subjugate you, I wish to understand you. I just need to make sure that there is someone strong at the ready who won't hesitate to put me down should you ever take advantage of my leniency."
These mere thoughts go by in the blink of an eye and they show that Tenzen will sacrifice himself if it means the protection and assured security of the Soul Society and Seireitei, though these thoughts will not be known by the others. The words of the Shining Captain had weight to them, perhaps this is due to his own respect towards the man but everything he said to him felt important. He doesn't flinch or tremble when he is told he'll be ripped in half as those words were a promise, one he hopes the Captain can keep should that day ever come. Even when confronted by a man filled with rage Tenzen maintains his composure and respect for this man, bowing his head and looking him dead in his eyes to show that he held onto every word spoken to him before giving his own reply.
"Understood."
With his back-up plan secured he can now focus his attention on more important issues, such as the mystery around the Kōtotsu that continues to get murkier and hazier with every interjection that is made in reference to it. Captain Kojima begins to speak next addressing the earlier spat between Captain Mukuro and Captain Nakamoto.
“There are still a few things that need to come to light...
For what it's worth. Yu's comments brought something to my attention. If Kyomu was truly a traitor. How is it that he still stands among us? Have "YU" put any thought as to w h y y y that is?
I had my money on him dying that day. I wasn’t gunna waste valuable time standing by for something as stupid as that.”
“Yet here he breaths. Relatively unscathed. I’m sure those mental scars ain’t holding up too well. But then again...who’s are? I can't help but believe he had his reasons for puttin' his neck in the noose; willingly.
Kyomu is annoying. He is traitorous; and he Fasho’ is a snake. But he’s our traitorous snake. Yeah his words are harsh, but he barely means that himself.
Cut the kid some slack. You don’t have enough information yet to pass that judgement....
Maybe...JUST maybe, if we had more hands. Had either of you been free to assist me. Had less of us been idle, doing nothing...
Then Captain Higen would have had no need to risk his life.
Maybe having all of our active Captains present would have been the
P r o t o c o l you felt the need to bitch at as us about.
You had a problem with how I do things? Then If you had something to say... you shoulda’ just said it..."
Despite his very animated personality Captain Kojima is making some sense, his thoughts on Kyomu are in line with his own that his treacherous behavior has already been judged and is not something worth mentioning or holding onto. The man still wears the Haori, he still stands with them now, and he does all this in the presence of the very man he attempted to kill.
"As far as I'm concerned, the handful in here who did act against the Kototsu did so to the best of their ability. There was nothing standard about what transpired. There are few rules for disaster. And that’s exactly what it was. Let’s not sugar coat. None of what Tenzen has said explains why this specific Kototsu was twice as large and twice as fast as a normal one. From what I recall. Its path was deliberate. It moved with purpose...”
"Purpose, but what was the purpose? We're on the cusp of something important just a bit more thought-provoking talk like this and we may have something to go off of! It moved with a purpose, it wanted to test our defense, our response time to an attack, our organization, communication, to see who our heavy hitters are perhaps, what else could there be to add to this?"
Tenzen internalized all of his comments from here on and was so absorbed in thought he began stroking his chin, a sort of physical tick to help keep his thoughts moving along and keep focus.
“What fate would you prefer for the souls of the Rukongai? Accidental death by my hands? Displacement by the Kototsu and left to space and time? How bout a deliberate death at the hands of the Head captain? How different would this meeting have been had we all failed? For the sake of balance, I doubt The commander would have held anything back. We may have lost more lives from that alone."
"What?"
The sudden shift in topic threw Tenzen off causing him to blurt out a response, he wanted him to stay on the Kōtotsu topic and his train of thought on it, no pun intended, was going in the right direction. He wasn't about to say this out loud though and it seems like the conversation is shifting in a direction that he doesn't want it to go.
"As far as I'm concerned, those that acted did so, giving us something to stand here and debate about should and shouldn’t-have happened...
If you weren't there to see it. If you weren’t there to lend a hand in stopping it, then keep that pretty mouth of yours shut...
Otherwise, we can take this outside...”
Again, Tenzen has no words to say and chooses to stay within his mind to toil over the bits and pieces of info he has gotten from Kagayaki and Kojima. His brief stay in his mind is cut short by Kojima addressing him directly, he gives the man his full attention to listen to what he has to say properly.
"Any Information you need on this, Yorugao, I can provide you after the meeting. Your thought process is sound and sits with what I've discovered in my investigation. Youve even gone as far as too unnecessarily justify your new found strength to the rest of us. There is little need TenZen San. The Commander has already made that choice for us. Anyone with any forethought could see that with their eyes closed. Had it no use, you’d have died before our very eyes."
He gives a nod in response to this and is glad to hear these words, glad to know that not everyone will look at him as some sort of monster roaming the Seireitei, not that it ever bothered him to begin with. His time as 3rd seat was unremarkable, an invisible man who only handed out daily orders and occasionally chatted with different Shinigami who chose to approach him. So even if people are talking ill of him behind his back, which they surely are, he won't think twice about it since his new role as Captain is well above that sort of pettiness.
"There are more important matters than that. Questions still left unanswered. Namely about that pot itself...
Why was it created? For what purpose. Does it serve? There is scarce information on its creation anywhere in the Soul Society. Why was it moved that day specifically? Not only did it disappear; but you returned moments later with it in your custody. I suppose Captain Tenzen cannot give us an answer to any of these questions. No..."
Being part of Kido Corps Tenzen has some knowledge about the Pot's creation. No first-hand information of course just that his Division played a role in its creation and the methods needed to unseal and seal it. Unfortunately, he lacked the proper tools needed to seal it away on that fateful day two months ago. But it seems like The Dragon is not finished yet, he continues on now setting his sights on the Head Captain.
"So tell us...
Head Captain..Murasaki...
...What have those eyes seen...
...that we cannot..?"
“The mind of a reporter never rests. If you believe the Commander will even entertain your interrogation, or offer you any sort of justification.. there’s still much to learn Young Maho. It’s best to just continue with your report.”
"I have to agree with that, I'm sure that everything Murasaki-sama does has a more than solid purpose behind it."
“Is there even anything substantial to report from the 9th Division…?”
The young Captain cuts in as well, responding to Maho and probably angered by his earlier taunt about wanting to fight. In all honesty, Tenzen never expected everyone to show Yū such hostility, he was expecting this sort of treatment directed towards himself. But it seems like the boy doesn't hesitate to bite back in the slightest. The thing about being a healer is that you must know what caused a wound in order to heal it properly and if they know what caused it they surely can inflict it if they were so inclined to. That alone makes Captain Nakamoto quite terrifying in his own eyes.
“All their Captain does anyways is smoke and write and smoke some more. I guess mass exterminating Rukongai citizens NEEDLESSLY and without GUILT could be added to that too, huh?”
Hopefully, a fight doesn't break out in this hall that is the last thing Tenzen wants to see. The rifts between the Captains is much larger than he initially realized, however, he is finally able to get a good gauge on each of their personalities while he himself has not revealed much about his own. Regardless he just wants more information about the Kōtotsu event so his mind can finally rest and so that he can make preparation for another attack against them. But so far, this is all devolving into chaos...