[BSD-RP] Soul Society: Rukongai

[Shinigami]

The young girl watched Lieutenant Arashi as he stood and looked at this man that now Himari knew was Xiaolin, a comrade of his and supposedly the Lieutenant of the second division as well. Himari felt a little out of place with all of this, not knowing how to feel by this reunion. She didn’t know the other soul reaper, and she felt a little stupid. She felt like she should know him, but it’s only been a month since she let her presence be seen outside of the barracks. She still had many people to meet and learn, but for now she just kept her mouth shut and watched.
Himari’s eyes glanced as Arashi’s fingers tightened around his Zanpakuto, enough to turn his knuckles white. Something about Arashi was off. And she felt it more than ever. She couldn’t see much, but she knew whatever was going on with Arashi was bad.
Whatever it was, it was causing him to looo a little insane.
She felt a little tightened as he finally composed himself, looking at Lieutenant Yugure with a smile that seemed like his normal smile but she knew something was off about it.
”I’m sure this is a nice reunion, but second division is to take him into custody. Congrats on your promotion, by the way. I hope we aren’t impeding in your squads duties, Lieutenant Suta.”
She just stood still, not saying a word. But she still wondered why they were in the same location as their mission. Tenzen didn’t mention any of this, same with Kido Corps. How did their paths cross like this? It worried Himari, but she made sure not to look too worried. The last thing she needed was to look weak in front of High ranking officers she didn’t even know. She just stood there, waiting for orders.
And orders she got.
”Right. Please move on ahead with Himari, I will catch up with you all shortly. You are not to engage, only reconnaissance.”
And now she was even more worried. The lead was in her court again. She had to lead them to the scary sounds that were occurring in the Valley not too far from where they were, and she was a little nervous to have to go there without Arashi being with her right then. But all she did was nodded.
“Yes Sir.” She addressed Arashi first before turning towards the men behind her, with a nod she connected with the subordinates and they knew what they had to do. Without another word, the girl would exit the are and make haste to the Village

 

[Shinigami]

Adjusting the bracers placed on her forearms, the lieutenant eyed her subordinate as she lifted and carried the lifeless body of the former Fifth Seat. The sound of further movement catches her attention and she sees as Arashi catches the falling figure of Xiaolin before handing him off to one of his men.
“I understand, but to propel the success of our mission to greater chances. I ask for your help, Lieutenant Yūgure. Not for vengeance, but to honor our comrades and to ensure nothing like this ever happens again.”
Her brows furrowed. While she would have jumped at a chance to provide a helping hand, the Second Division had their mission, and would return home to report the findings of the task set by their captain. Though this was just an excuse. Yasu was unsure whether or not to participate in the events of unleashing her newfound powers. She had yet to train in that form, and without proper supervision, she, or Arashi, could go berserk and add on further to the pile of bodies with their comrades.
“I will send one of my men to assist your companion in taking Xiaolin and the other back to your Barracks.”
She was stuck in between a rock and hard place, and seeing as one of his men took hold of Xiaolin, she released a breath that she didn’t know that she was holding and began rubbing at the back of her before sparing a glance towards Kazumi. Yasu had already come to her conclusion long since before they departed, and the discussion would be held upon her return to the barracks.
“I do not mean to intrude, Lieutenant Suta, we need to advance soon.

“Right. Please move on ahead with Himari, I will catch up with you all shortly. You are not to engage, only reconnaissance.”
"HAI!"
The light click of his guard shifting sounds and the area of which his zanpakuto once sat is now empty. Placing her hands on her hips, Yasu’s purple orbs rise to meet the other figure among them: Himari. She could only see the worry in her expression as the woman left on Arashi’s orders and Yasu sighed heavily.
“Kazumi. Go back with Lieutenant Suta’s subordinate to the Second Division. If Captain Mukuro comes back before I do, please inform him of the current situation with Fifth. That's all.”
She calls out, possessing no room for negotiation. Her attention then falls on Arashi and she moves in for a sharp punch to his shoulder as a friendly gesture, though with her strength, it may cause him to stumble.
“I’ll help since you asked so nicely, but… I ask that if something happens that causes either of us to don our masks, we have full authority to cut the other down the moment that it endangers our allies.”
Upon her agreement to join, she only waits to be filled in on their objectives. Going in blind was the last thing she wanted.

 

[Shinigami]

Though her face appeared passive, golden hues observed their surroundings like a hawk. Feeling no ill intention from the other shinigami now present from a different division she made no intervention as the one took hold of Xiaolin as his body went limp. He and Yasu appeared to know each other, the man seeming familiar though she was unable to remember where she had seen him before. She knew of him, his name and title spoken by her Lieutenant.
Secure as they could possibly be in their current scenario her focus spread out to the area that surrounded them. There was still nothing immediately concerning, though the place looming before them appeared to hold its own large gathering of danger as well as a harsh reiatsu. What exactly was happening there?
Despite the weight pulling her shoulders downward her focus was temporarily only on the unknown darkness before them. It was fairly obvious whatever had summoned the other division to the area had to do with whatever was happening within this place, and regardless of whether it was a part of their mission or not it seemed to merit a closer look. Whoever had done the awful deed of spreading all those bodies...the one responsible had to be further within.
Though her first thoughts had been to return home, the thought of the culprit hiding so close to where she was irked her to no end. Perhaps it would kill her, yes. But the one responsible for the carnage they currently faced was so close. How simple it would be to break within the walls and end them, regardless of what could happen to her. Her thoughts gave little allowance for her to allow herself to consider her own well being. She wanted only to avenge her fallen comrades and prevent such tragedies from occurring again.

The Lieutenant's words snapped her out of her pondering, eyes seeking her out. Wavering from Yasu to Arashi she considered the predicament. Perhaps she would be in their way and it was obvious Yasu had dismissed her with those words, leaving no room for argument. However, watching the two as well as feeling the reitasu leaking from both she no longer had any question of who the man was.
He had been taken with Yasu at the same time; body consumed by the strange pot and transformed into something similar to a Vizard. The blood lust they both felt was unmistakable.
What was she to do? She had been given a direct order, eyes peering at those that were to join her in her journey back to the barracks. But how could she in good conscious leave two of what was basically viazards alone in such a scenario? Would they be capable of keeping each other in check?
Everything was uncertain. Biting her lip she relinquished the body of her fallen comrade with an almost possessive nature; nearly unwilling to simply pass him off to someone else-especially one from another squad. However she could not simply stand there and accept such an order without any sort of argument. She was well aware Yasu no longer had any attention for her, looking away and focused on the man instead. However she could not just walk away from the both of them in the face of something so potentially dangerous.
Was it her fault they had lost the man she had previously held in her arms? The missing third seat? Sakiko? It was all very likely. She had been given many responsibilities before she had been demoted. She had failed at every turn. How could she now turn on her comrade, especially one that could not especially be counted on due to her condition.
Arms now empty of any burden she cast her gaze down while posed toward Yasu and the other Lieutenant. Perhaps she would simply be in the way. Perhaps she would be nothing but a burden. However, leaving the two alone in their current states did not feel right. Golden orbs seeking those of her Lieutenant as well as the Lieutenant of fifth, her gaze nearly pleading with them to allow her to give her aid.
Unsure of what to say her thoughts roamed only to her fallen comrades. Xiaolin. Sakiko. The 'King of Thieves'. She had effectively failed them all and she refused to do the same to Yasu. How could she return to their Captain and tell him she had simply abandoned them both. Giving the other division's members permission to move forward without her, promising to reunite with them shortly, she could not keep her eyes from either of the vice Captains.
Perhaps she was useless and had behaved as if she were so, but she would not allow the two of them to enter such a place without her watching eye. How could she simply abandon the . two? Certain she would have to face Yasu's anger she cared little. She would be unable to face her own self in the mirror much less their Captain if she walked away now. Reiatsu surrounding the retreating members and the two fallen members of her own squad she gave a determined gaze to the two Lieutenants. Words failed her but she knew her intention was clear; this was not their fight alone and they were not expected to face it alone. Especially in their state. Kazumi could not tolerate any more losses on their end.

 

[Shinigami]

The man's strides continued as he began to hasten his pace in order to meet up with the individuals whom lied ahead. Their identities although unknown to him, presented him with thte opportunity to obtain knowledge pertaiing to this area's situation, as well as a chance of achieving information which could very well lead him to his intended targets. The probability of it being the seated members of his division were extremely high being that the area thus far seemed to be devoid of any other occupants of the district or any other individuals lingering, along with the fact that they had been directly assigned to report to this area of the Rukongai prior. His movements as silent and swift as ever, he continued at his quickened his pace before the appearance of four distinguishable silhouettes came into view, in the distance with the counterparts surrounding them, one of the four silhouettes appearing as if it were carrying the limp body of another individual. Such a scene naturally would cause Eizoku to be further on guard than he had already been. His right hand reaching to grasp the hilt of his Zanpakto which lied secured upon his waist to the left, whilst his left hand seized hold of the middle portion of his sheath, presenting the man the capability to quickly draw his blade or activate his shikai within a moments notice if he deemed necessary, nimble in both mind and ability.
The closer the shinigami had drawn in towards the silhouettes, the more distinguishable the features upon them became–distant blurs became defined shapes, and definition gave way to color. A pink ponytail comparable to a bloom of sakura blossoms in color, giving way to the winds of the area as the lower portions began to sway in submission, from what appeared to be a woman standing quite a distance away. Her clothing from the back appeared tattered and torn for whatever reason...had she been attacked or assaulted perhaps? It appeared as if she was wearing a rather unique and tattered version of the shihakushō, the appearance differing drastically in design and style than the uniformed requirements of soul society. Standing next to her a woman adorned in a strange style of the garment as well, blue hair flowing the same as the pink haired woman. Upon seeing their attires, Eizoku immediately came to the conclusion that the two were indeed shinigami, and most likely were from the 2nd division, being that it was known to be one of the only divisions with the permissions to alter the styling of their garments in accordance to their fighting style – normally tight fitting and allowing better maneuvering and aid in stealth in comparison to the general baggy shihakushō worn by the other divisions. He was informed at the Kido Headquarters, that only the fifth division had been assigned to this task, so what exactly was the second division doing here?
Upon closer analyzation, it became apparent that the blue haired woman had been the one holding the limp, battered and beaten body of a man also cloaked in a styled garment with rather large beads around his neck. Eizoku's attention quickly shifted from the trio whom he honestly had no interest in beyond the reasoning for their being in this particular area of the Rukongai, to that of the black and green haired man he had been searching for – Lt. Arashi Suta. Although Himari hadn't been present with him for whatever reason, his searching hadn't been in vain, which relived his lingering irritation, along with the fact that the man had been unharmed. However, the disposition of everyone present had obviously been offset by something, and the situation at hand hadn't seemed to be the most ideal for questioning or breaking the tension that had been created in the area. The conversation became more audible the closer the man drew in to the four, he began to listen intently as he watched a fifth blue haired figure skittering off into the distance with a group following her respectively, before she herself became a silhouette with the others – it had been Himari.
“Kazumi. Go back with Lieutenant Suta’s subordinate to the Second Division. If Captain Mukuro comes back before I do, please inform him of the current situation with Fifth. That's all.”
The woman with the pink hair communicated with the blue haired individual who's name was apparently Kazumi. This confirmed Eizoku's prior assumption from earlier, yet in saying this, the woman also seemingly invoked the underlying feelings and passion of Kazumi, whom seemed not only hesitant to obey direct orders from whom the man assumed to be her superior, but also resolute in her decision to stay.
Eizoku with a surprising amount of stealth and speed would end his use of shunpo as he would seemingly appear directly beside Lt. Suta about the distance of an arm and sword away just in case a reflexive attack action of self defense should kick in. However, to his surprise, the lieutenant's Zanpakto had been slightly unsheathed, and his blade hadn't been present, followed by the sudden subtle lighting of the sky above. The only conclusion that Eizoku could come to from an absent blade and a sudden change within the surrounding area was perhaps the activation of a shikai or bankai– this however was only an assumption in theory being that he was not familiar with the abilities of the Lieutenants Zanpakto. Why exactly had it been activated, was thee any immediate danger. His expression, although the typical smile he normally wore was present, it was obvious from just the atmosphere alone that he had been anything but happy. Shaking this observation off, Eizoku would direct his attention towards Kazumi before interrupting the two before the expected confrontation between the two females would occur.
"Eizoku Yugameru, present by means of direct orders of the Captain Tenzen to report, and aided by the Kido Headquarters here for assistance."
Hoping to be informed or directed on what to do he would patiently and respectfully await his orders, hopefully to be sent to support Himari in order to escape the tension in the area.

 

[Shinigami]

“ Yes Sir.”
No rebuttal, no look of irritation or impatience. She understands her task, the importance of her mission. Lead these men, obtain information before he, and potentially Lieutenant Yugure arrived. However, there will be another soon, in fact, the individual has arrived, standing at his side. Arashi remains attached to his surroundings, far beyond the position of his comrades. His senses carrying his awareness, should he need to move immediately. His Shikai is released, the aforementioned ability active and present among one of his men, but even their awareness did not extend to the small spec of light attached to his clothing. So focused on the task at hand, ready to aid Himari at the call to duty. As they should…
" Eizoku Yugameru, present by means of direct orders of Captain Tenzen to report, and aided by the Kido Headquarters here for assistance."
Another member of the 5th division. Obviously, someone he has yet to meet, but to find his way here, on his own no less the journey shows his capabilities. He’d receive nothing more than a glance, his eyes barely opening to acknowledge his presence. He seemed ready to act, ready to be involved in a potential life or death situation. His eyes closed, whether it was noticeable or not. Success seems to be possible, but Lieutenant Suta remains vigilant, cautious at the possibility of everything going sideways. However, the helping hands did not cease here, Lieutenant Yugure makes her response.
“ Kazumi. Go back with Lieutenant Suta’s subordinate to the Second Division. If Captain Mukuro comes back before I do, please inform him of the current situation with Fifth. That's all.”
She addressed her subordinates first. Arashi waved his hand towards his own subordinate who carried the body of Xiaolin. While he seemed ready to complete this task in aiding the 2nd division, the blue-haired woman seemed hesitant, doubtful. It seems she carried the same shell that Himari does… The tone of Lieutenant Yugure proves that she wasn’t looking for any disobedient action, be it verbal or physical. Then again, the matter here has already proven to be far more taxing and complex then he had hoped. Arashi contemplated his decision, conjuring second thoughts…
His expression remained, no change in his demeanor. Unable to discern if he is truly thinking. Perhaps his silence could be the instrument of assumption. Suddenly, he was punched, jokingly of course, still, it caused him to stumble a bit. Rubbing his shoulder, turning his attention to Lieutenant Yugure. Even with a casual effort, her strength is daunting. He can only imagine what it is like when she finally gets serious.
“ I’ll help since you asked so nicely, but… I ask that if something happens that causes either of us to don our masks, we have full authority to cut the other down the moment that it endangers our allies.”
How can he forget about that, and it truly became something else to worry about. His inner turmoil, clawing at the borders, attempting to break the seal that holds his soul-less counterpart. However, it brings a bit of joy to hear that Lieutenant Yugure will assist him and his Squad, and in tandem, he saw no better person to take his life, other than Captain oda, should his being become tainted by the Hollow lurking in the depths of his mind.
” Understood, Lieutenant Yugure. Also, welcome aboard, Eizoku Yugameru. Sorry that we have to meet under such dangerous circumstances…”
His subordinate had already started walking, but upon realizing that Kazumi hadn’t followed him quite yet, he’d turn back to look, raising an eyebrow trying to figure out what was holding her up. They did not have time to stand around, they had been given their orders… Arashi of course had noticed this too, as Kazumi’s hesitance turned to something of an honorable and caring characteristic, but at the same time, blatant disregard to the orders she was given by her superior.
She believed her heart was in the right place. She caught a grasp of how dire the situation is, the potential danger of what Lieutenant Yugure will be facing, and the wrath of Captain Mukuro should she return with terrible news. Fear stains her soul, it constricts her ability to think and understand that she still had a mission to accomplish. However, Arashi understood these feelings she felt, it reminded him of Katsuo Oda, somewhat. Willing to break away from the laws and orders set by their superiors, just to make sure that their comrades are safe. How unbefitting of a 2nd division member.
” Kazumi, was it?
His eyes opened, his midnight blue orbs focused on every fiber of her being. Peering into the depths of her very soul. The entire time he spoke, he maintained a gentle expression, one that understands her feelings. However, she’d be able to tell that he meant business, that there was no room for her feelings right now. Time is of the essence and Xioalin needed medical attention.
” You are scared, that much is clear. However, you have been given an order by your superior. It is best that you follow and complete the task that has already been given. Trust in our ability to see this through. Please, take your leave, we do not have time to spare for feelings, and my subordinate is waiting. Hurry back as soon as you can. The two of you are dismissed.”
Arashi bows to her, closing his eyes in the process, assuring the safety of her Lieutenant. Raising his posture, he’d watch Kazumi take her to leave, in the hopes that she would no longer be tethered by her emotions. His attention returns to both Eizoku and Lieutenant Yugure.
” I will hear your report after we are finished, Eizoku. In any case, the 5th Division has been tasked with the destruction of a river that has been, blessed, by the Soul King’s blood. The source is at the end of this road, according to my subordinate from Head Quarters. I am sure you can feel the immense concentration of it from here as well as a lot of souls that are working near it.
He paused for a moment, giving them a chance to tune their senses and understand the severity of the situation better than they already had.
” My best guess is, we are approaching a large encampment. There is no telling how long they have been working and maintaining this camp, but today will be the last day they are operational and running. However, the bodies that line this road is a testament to skills equivalent to well trained Shinigami. We can not afford to be lack-luster in our approach.”
His head turned towards Eizoku, his lips parting to relay specific orders for him only.
” You are to partner up with Himari and two other subordinates, from the squad. It will be foolish of you two not to use your Shikai. Hold nothing back, the capabilities of our opponents are unknown. ”
His attention returned to Lieutenant Yugure, he sighed heavily, for the first time in a long time, did his smile fade from view. Pondering his thoughts, collecting his words, and finally, he speaks.
” That leaves three of my subordinates with you. Thank you, for staying, I owe you. I will be securing the location where the source of the Soul King’s blood is with the four Blue-Coats from Head Quarters. If you two would, place a hand on my shoulder so we can catch up with Himari and her men.”
The moment that their hands are placed upon his shoulders, the brightness in the sky dims, returning to its natural lighting. The insurmountable specs of light that float high above their head continue to blend into the light, remaining unnoticeable, unseen. Suddenly, the trio will no longer be standing along the dirt road. Hopefully, Himari’s team has arrived at a safe distance from the entrance into Camp in order to remain undetected. There, the trio will suddenly appear, their own presence has disappeared, both spiritual pressure and physical appearance, effectively completing the act of teleportation.
Upon arrival, Arashi’s guard and scabbard broke into specs of light that immediately began to bend and hide the entirety of the group from being sensed and seen from any and all. Arashi had performed the Bakudo, Kyokkō (曲光, Bent Light) on a scale that allowed him to conceal an entire group using his Shikai as a catalyst to perform this Kido on a greater scale than it is normally used. Even though he wasn’t a master quite yet, Arashi still had considerable knowledge and impressive skill over the Kido he can perform.