[BSD-RP] Soul Society: Rukongai

[Shinigami]

At the crack of dawn, like each of the previous days since the destruction of the 77th District, the Oki clan mobilizes under the leadership of Naoki Oki, the head of the clan, and mother of the Head Lieutenant, Honoka. Upon news of the calamity that happened in the district, she swiftly ordered relief efforts to those affected. Quickly, the upper echelon of the clan mobilized at her word. They dare not disobey the matriarch, who is stern and demanding, and in her own way caring and altruistic. The clan arrives within hours, setting camp on the outskirts of the destruction, establishing large tents to offer shelter to the citizens displaced by the events. They await clearance from Twelfth Division's highest seated member, allowing them to clear debris and begin reconstruction efforts; which is granted on the second day.

In the tents, members of the clan, and volunteers, offer medical aid, healing those injured and in pain. They are led by on of the Matriarch's younger sisters, Chika. Not as uptight as her elder sister, or as irresponsible as their youngest sister, Chika oversees the recovery and rehabilitation, while helping to lighten the moods of those around. She's sympathetic to their situation, and if at the very least she can return to them their health, then they can reestablish their homes. She handles the multitude of herbal mixes and salves, prescribing antibiotics and everything in between. A reliable right hand for the matriarch, who has no need to worry about the refugee's physical wellbeing.

The debris is cleared, relocated and sorted in to piles to reuse and recycle everything that can be. This mobilization is spearheaded by a pair of branch family Oki, daughters to Chika, Haru and Moriko. They lead kido specialists and experts, utilizing Hado #57: Daichi Tenyō to clear the grounds. While usually used offensively, it's versatility allows them to move the boulders and collapsed structures without endangering others' lives, while even helping recover those trapped underneath. Despite their young age, the girls are knowledgeable and wise, and their perspective was worth it's weight in gold, despite their clashing personalities.

Finally, on the fourth day, the reconstruction is able to begin. This process in delegated by Haru's husband, Kohaku. Highly revered, the young man sets new building plans for the Rukongai. The dilapidated run down houses are no longer the norm, and while the newly constructed houses are not mansions, the humble homes are well received by the remaining citizens of the Rukongai. Built mostly out of plant based materials, they are quickly built by the synchronized work of the clan and volunteers. The finishing touches and amenities are added by those led by Kaede Oki, of Twelfth Division. Usually one holed up in his laboratory, he was caught unaware by word of Naoki. He and his wards take their knowledge and skills to modernize the new homes, adding comfort for the inhabitants and future residents of these houses.

At sunset, the Matriarch, fellow council member, and their advisors arrive at the clan's estate in the first western district of the Rukongai, leaving the rest to those left behind. It is actions like these by the clan which influence the public's opinion of the family, resulting voting not one, but two members of the Oki into the council of the Central Forty-six. Coming from humble beginnings themselves, through patience and diligence, they built up their fortune and resources. Including even special contracts with the Gotei 13 to supply them with anything from medicinal herbs, highly nutritious food, and even quality wood.
Most of the members of the main branch of the family gathers, the stark differences in appearance are highlighted now that they sit beside each other at a table. With very few actually possessing true Oki blood, allowing not only a stronger bond with plants, but longevity as well, the vast majority of the family is adopted in, or married in. Their growing power and prestige is undeniable by those seeking such. To them, the saying "...The blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb." is held close at heart, placing a higher value on a bond forged through understanding and compassion for one another, than mere blood relation.
"You are too lax on your daughter, Naoki."
Kaede, adopted younger brother to Naoki, and uncle to Honoka, breaks the silence. He leans forward in his chair, his deep voice demands the attention of everyone present. His scowling gaze locks with Naoki's glare, as if meant to intimidate the elder woman. The others exchange looks among themselves, but remain silent. awaiting the response of the matriarch. She does not cower or falter, and simply allows the overgrown, modified scientist to continue his questioning.
"Is it not enough that one Oki disgrace us?"
"You speak as if you know the weight of her responsibilities."
Yes, Honoka was set to inherit the clan, but in truth she was not the first choice. She does not even bother to address the comment referencing to Tenn'yu, the youngest sister of Naoki and Chika, once meant to inherit the Oki clan. The woman tenses slightly, anger welling up at mere mention of the Oki turned Oda. Then she inhales deeply, gathering herself. The strict Naoki comprehends the importance of her daughter's work, and does not overwhelm her with trifling matters of the clan. In fact, she hardly asks for her opinion, especially when it comes to admitting new members into their family. A mismatched that all it seems to have in common, is plants. Be it knowledge of, culminating, or even wielding a plant-type zanpakuto.
"This gathering isn't even about her. What are we even here for Nao?"
Chika interjects with a roll of her eyes, not wanting to let them continue their bickering. The tall woman with white streaks in her hair leans back in her chair, one of the handful of members with Oki blood coursing through her veins. She looks at her nails and begins to push back the skin on her fingernail in boredom.
"Whaaaat? I thought it was for a party! After fixing up the Rukoooon."
The youngest girl with bright blue eyes, Moriko, speaks up. Her small hands clap quickly, excited for a celebration. While she is quite young, she is highly adept at Kido, and her out-of-the-box thinking is priceless. A loud scoff is heard coming from the red haired girl, who due to illness, was unable to undergo formal training in shinigami arts, instead learning most of what she knows from her younger sister. Her proficiency does not come in question, as she is quite the talented practitioner.
"We're here because Aunt Naoki and Haku got admitted into the C46. Can we wrap this up? I have an appointment." Her voice lowers for her to mumble under her breath, "...you braindead idiot..."
"Haha, Haru-chan, Please." Kohaku, her husband, chuckles, unaffected by the sharpness of her tongue. "Why don't we let Lady Naoki tell us herself?"
His levelheadedness adds to the reasons the young man was elected into the Central 46, as opposed to others who are prone to act more rashly, without measure of consequence. Lady Oki nods, ands places her arms on the table, interlocking her fingers as she speaks, addressing them all at once.
"It is true, because of our admittance into the Central Forty-six, I will be inclined to rely more on you and your counsel. Our choices will not only affect us, but also the entirety of the Seireitei. Not only that, we will be in the public eye far more than ever before. Our family deserves recognition for its accomplishments, and this is only the beginning. The high nobles have become a disgrace, no longer worthy of representing people or holding office. The Kuchiki became an embarrassment after Masaki made a show of Murasaki's trial. She did not want justice, she wanted to save face. And look what it cost them."
It is thanks to Shobatsu's actions, that the wool over the eyes of many is lifted, allowing them to see the reality of their government. She, and many others among her, are grateful to the man for the actions he took at the cost of his freedom. Perhaps, one day the two may share a drink, but for now, Naoki and Kohaku, with the best interest at heart for their family and constituents, must get to work. Now the disparity between the districts is on the road to be lessened. The quality of life must be improved in the impoverished districts. With the greedy nobles out of ruling power, advancements repeatedly requested, that constantly went rejected or unanswered, now have a possibility to be approved by the new council, in what will result in better living conditions for all the Rukongai residents. At least that's what the two Oki hope.

 

[Shinigami]

Using shunpo (瞬歩, Flash Steps) Takashi is on his way to the southern area of the Rukongai and more specifically the District 78, Inuzuri by Lieutenant Suta's orders. He flies through the air and as his speed begin to slow down , he take a second step as the speed only increases for each step that is taken. From what he can see, the district 1 is as usual peaceful and lawful, while the closer to the District 78 he got districts decaying into slums.
On the way to his task, Takashi flies over district after district but when he is above the 47th district, he can see a man standing on the street waving at him. Curious about who the man is and want Takashi, he decides to quickly fly down to the ground. He knows that with his speed he can reach District 78 in a very short time and this short stop does not delay him for long. Down on the ground, Takashi notices that he is not a stranger and instead is is one of the older members of the family / clan Jibun Kiyoshi. Before Takashi even have time to say something so begins Jibun to talk.

”Why are you in such a hurry boy? I've not seen you in years.”
It is true that they have not met in several years because Takashi has chosen to focus on training and increase his knowledge of Kido. Takashi takes a deep sigh before answering Jibun in an emotionless voice.
”Good day Jibun-sensei how nice to see you again, I was on my way for a regular check over a couple districts but saw you and wanted to check how it was with you.”
Takashi replied as he bowed deeply to Jibun. Knowing that he can not tell about his task but at the same time he did not want to lie.
”Forgive me but I'm in a hurry and need to g..”
Before Takashi could finish his sentence, Jibun lifts his wooden cane and swings it straight down towards Takashi's head. This is something that Takashi undoubtedly could avoid with an easy motion, but instead he is just staying in the same pose bowing towards Jibun. Shortly afterwards, Takashi gets hit by the cane twice before it ends and he stands up to look at the elderly man.
”You younger ones are always in such a hurry and because of that you miss so much. I rarely see you or Shusuke-boy these days. How are you two doing? Do you see him often? Do you have any friends outside of the family Takashi-boy?”
Takashi noticed that Jibun was focusing on the head of the family, Shusuke. At the same time, he tried to show that he also cared about Takashi's well-being. There were several questions in a row and the only thing Takashi could do was to be respectful and answer them.
”Sorry Shusuke-sama and me, Jibun-sensei we are very busy and trying to make time for everything and everyone but sometimes it is not enough. Shusuke-sama and I see each other whenever we have time or if he needs me for doing jobs for the family.”
The last question Takashi stopped at ''Do you have any friends outside of the family Takashi-boy?'' this was not something he really thought about but his thoughts go straight to a single individual. Takashi's hand is now moved towards one of his pockets and inside his pocket he has a picture which he slowly lifts up and shows Jibun.

Jibun leans forward to take a closer look at the picture and a smile can be seen on his old face. In his youth, Jibun was known as a hermit and pervert and Takashi knowing this just let him see the photo for a few seconds before he place it back in his pocket.
”She is really beautiful Takashi-boy and I'm glad to hear that you could find someone you care about. In any case, this old man should not stop you from completing your tasks.”
Takashi takes another deep sigh and bows to Jibun before turning and facing the District 78 Inuzuri.
”Take care of yourself now Jibun-sensei and go home now before it gets dark.”
Just after those words are said, Takashi just fade away from sight, leaving no trace of his presence. The time he talked to Jibun lasted longer than he thought it would and now he rushing as fast as he can towards the District 78 Inuzuri. It does not take long for him to arrive there and he standing approximately 30 meters/98ft in the sky

”That was a waste of time ... why did I just not continue to get here instead..”
Takashi speaks for himself before he starts looking around the district from the sky.

 

[Shinigami]

With the use of Shunpo, Takashi finds time to speak to an older relative of his clan, despite his haste, and his orders. Having taken longer than he expected, he makes his move, positioning himself within the sky above District 78, but as the Shinigami looks on, he finds peace, but not only that, complete and utter silence. Not a soul in sight. Perhaps his job in surveying the area would be easier than he anticipated, no issues will arise to impede his progress. Unfortunately, the silence and peacefulness of a single road beneath him are overrun by voices filled with malice and anger. Many burst from their broken shacks and run-down homes onto the streets. Out of the many pairs of feet that now flood the dirt road, a single finger points upward, directed towards Takashi…
” A Soul Reaper dog,” an angrily male exclaims into the crowd!
With haste and bloodlust in their eyes, they turn their heads. Many of them draw weapons, picking up rocks from the crowd while their children cower behind their mothers and fathers. From just their demeanor alone, Takashi would be able to tell these people meant business. They had nothing else to lose and ever since the Kokotsu incident, they have suffered, and for the longest time, blamed the Soul Society for their inactivity and mending of their own wounds, honoring their dead loved ones. These people stand oblivious to the Shinigami that managed to help save so many lives. These are the bunch that was neglected within all of the chaos… Now Takashi must face this angry mob or leave them to their scrutiny and cursing.
” YOU TRASH!”
” GARBAGE!”
” I'LL KILL YOU!”
Their anger only flourishes more and more, possessed by their own pain and torment. Right now, it seems no words could calm their erratic behavior, no amount of pleading and friendly gestures can sate their hunger for revenge, for clarity, for their own meaningless honor… Bravely, and boldly, they start throwing their weapons towards him, rocks and tools all flying in his general direction, and even if they pose no real threat to Takashi, they continue prompting for him to come down to face them. Men begin to step forward, hollering with spit flying from their maws, veins bulging from their next as their booming voices call for Takashi to come and face them.
” BRING YOUR ASS DOWN HERE AND FACE US!”
” YOU PIECE OF SHIT,” another yell!
” I'LL TAKE YOU ON MYSELF!”
Their threats only become far more violent, so much so, that their energy and motivation would only transcend to their children, and soon, they would get involved, yelling and screaming at the top of their lungs, wailing with furious tears. How will Takashi handle the situation should he choose to ignore his orders once more, just to appease a rowdy bunch of Rukongai Citizens? Beneath all of their pain and rage, they only seek help, help that seemed far too gone for them in their eyes.

 

[Shinigami]

The Rukongai, the most populated source of souls throughout the entire of the Soul Society was mulling over the incident that had happened just over four days ago. All 320 districts had seen their fair share of destruction, but none would ever expect it to happen on the scales it had within the past half-year. The Kotōtsu that had reigned terror, the silent culling of the Kuchiki that had rested in hiding within one of these many districts, and then just recently, the explosion that decimated an entire district and then some, so severe that it earned the panicked call for reinforcements at the sight of a Garganta that had absorbed in the Blood of the Soul King.
Surely they had seen better days. Even with their clear hierarchy of things that ravaged the higher-numbered districts, the Rukongai citizens would live as peacefully as they could. Children played, adults worked, and Shinigami would make their patrols without a worry in the world that something as drastic as these past events would ever happen again...

“You crazy kids! When I tell your mother what you have been up to, your asses are grass, ya hear!!!!”
It is the scream of a particular soul that earns the idle chuckles from his neighbors as they watch him berate a group of young children running away with their stolen goods. In the 76th District, Sakahone (逆骨, Reverse Bone) of the Southern Rukongai, people are as lively as ever. Not in the best of situations, the citizens do their best to live their lives to the fullest before they become reincarnated. They even go so far as to make friends with the passing Shinigami, though success is very little with the way that the infamous Bloodhound of the Gotei Thirteen trains his dogs. An entire regiment under his command… To have suffered the losses they had would not earn the praise of their superiors, so what would another failed attempt at protection earn?
Eerie silence ensues as a large shadow comes to tower over the inhabitants of Sakahone. Fear settles in their heart at the anomaly, but it is fear that keeps them from moving as the light that dwells within that darkness only grows brighter and brighter up until it completely explodes from the depths of its bottomless cavern, releasing the powerful cero of a menos grande into the realm of Shinigami. Chaos ensues, as does the destruction entitled to the strength behind this stream of spiritual energy, taking everything in its path without a care as it speeds through the district in one fell swoop. Another instance takes place in the 3rd District, Hokutan (北端, North End) of the Western Rukongai, and the 79th District, Kusajishi (草鹿, Grass Deer) of the Northern Rukongai.

The destruction is quick, imminent, coming without so much of a warning, and as quickly as it appears, it leaves without so much of a trace. The Soul Society was quietly invaded, but for what reason? Three hauntingly powerful cero unleashed a devastating blow onto several regions of the Rukongai, appearing at random, yet simultaneously to one another as if to catch the Shinigami that protect their homes completely off-guard.
Really, what were the Shinigami going to make of this anomaly?

 

[Shinigami]

The hierarchy of the Soul Society’s noble families was in shambles. The loss of one of the four major families had caused those of lower nobility to begin to peer at the chance to be recognized as one of the most renowned families among the Shihoin, formerly Kuchiki and Shiba houses, as well as the Tsunayashiro. Neither family had produced a sensible heir to take their place as the head of their clan, let alone a capable shinigami. Clans such as the Omaeda, the Kyōraku, the Ukitake, the Fēng, or Kira hadn’t managed to do either. With the death of the Central Forty-Six, those clans of new and old had put forth their best representatives to get a foothold within Shinigami politics if they hadn’t already. If they already did, it was just another gain to the family name. One by one, representatives had been chosen, and they were all convening to meet soon.
Included in these endeavors would be the inhabitants of the Gekkō Clan and Megami Clan, who inhabited the First District, Junrinan (潤林安, Lush Forest Peace) of the Western Rukongai.
“We have to move quickly, or that bitch could get wind of what we’ve been up to.”
“Mind your tongue when talking about my daughter.”
“That bitch is the one who gave you that scar.”
“That’s enough.”
There was nothing but squabbling at the round table as the joint heads of the Gekkō and Megami clan had gathered together to discuss the finalization of choice when it came to their representative for the incoming Central Forty-Six. The Megami was a minor clan with faint blood relations Gekkō they could be seen as the third or fourth branch; a clan that had served under the Gekkō for centuries up until the current head of the clan, Akarui Gekkō, had changed it to where the Megami would no longer have to do such a thing in regards to her mother. It brought nothing but loathing from the members of the Gekkō, but with knowledge of the Scorpion’s skill, they had no chance in removing her from her pedestal as she was. As a member of the First Division, and being such a high-seated shinigami as well, the sudden forced resignation of her title as clan head would serve to paint them as an unrighteous clan.
“All we need to do is get her to resign from Clan Head. What good has she done for the clan?”

There was nothing but hatred for Akarui when it came to Yasashi. The scars that marred her porcelain skin were a result of an altercation with the Clan Head’s poison claws. If not for the kneeling of her father, Yasashi would have suffered more than just a scar. The personal vendetta had always fueled the young Gekkō to aim for the riddance of her oppressor. However, her illusioned discrepancies were her own, as Akarui had never given her a second glance after that fateful event. What’s done is done, and there was no use in mulling over the weak that tried to overstep their boundaries.
“She represents the Gekkō Clan well, even if she doesn’t follow your traditions. Have you ever killed a captain before? Get off your high horse, Yasashi. If you became the Clan Head, what good would you do?”

Jaakuna Megami was a strong advocate for Akarui. The two were cousins, though were raised like siblings after his mother had gotten exiled by the former Clan Lady for merely disrupting a seam on her royal garment. Akarui hardly visits, but Jaakuna is well aware of the tasks entitled to her, given her position and especially with recent events. He’d seen her get beaten and bruised by her former siblings, and the treatment of the former Clan Lady would never go unnoticed since her anger was directed at his aunt just as it was Akarui. A brat like Yasashi could never imagine the hardships that Akarui had faced to get to where she was now. The emblem that sits on her noble coat represents the people that harmed her is worn proudly, and Jaakuna had only wished he could have done more.
“I’d start by putting vermin like you back where you belong: under the heel of the Gekkō.”
“Please say that after you best my daughter in combat, Yasashi.”

Sakuya Megami, a maid-turned-noble, though by unprecedented means. Akarui’s mother had been through hell and back but had to persevere for the sake of her daughter, and in the end, it had paid off. As a dutiful daughter, Akarui had written all sorts of clauses that guaranteed the safety of her mother from the laws of the Gekkō Clan upon her holding the title. Though even with the protection, there had been many instances in which members have tried to break those clauses and it ended with their demise. Sakuya was well aware of her place and would do nothing to jeopardize her daughter, but it seems as though they were keen on sending a representative. If such was the case, then she would have to choose wisely, for both the Clan’s reputation and Akarui. Shinigami and Clan politics, unfortunately, went hand-in-hand, and at times, she wished that Akarui had not taken this path.
“Do not speak to me as if you actually have a foothold within this room. I know what you are, and you’re nothing but a maid who got lucky--”
“I said: That’s enough.”

The low rumble of Ushijima Gekkō's voice had ultimately silenced the bickering between the four representative leaders of their respective clans. The younger brother of Yūutsuna and former heir to the Leading position sits with annoyance furrowed in his brows. Yasashi had settled back in her seat, Jaakuna had covered a laugh with a cough that earned a nudge against his foot from Sakuya. Ushijima, upon the silence, had leaned forward in his seat, adjusting his glasses, and exhaled slowly.
“The Gekkō Clan and Megami have come to the consensus of sending a joint representative that had gained the most votes from the Citizens of the First, Fourth, and Twelfth Districts of the Western Region. This is not up for debate.”
He turns to Yasashi.
“Yasashi. You were not considered for the position due to your personal aspirations being selfish and not done for in the name of the Clan. Your anger is misplaced and the scar that paints your face should serve as a reminder of the difference between you and Akarui. If not for me, you would not be holding a seat within this council at this very moment. Recognize your limits, or your aspirations will be the death of you.”
Amethyst irises fall on the two Megami members and the sound of a door sliding open causes all of the occupants to turn their heads and face their representative.
“My, my, what’s with the tension?”

Kazan Gekkō stands before them, pulling at the collar of his top and giving them a rather hauntingly gentle smile. A product of selective breeding, Kazan’s parents were practically forced into this marriage in hopes of producing another soul like Akarui. While he may not possess the physical capabilities or battle prowess as his clan leader, Kazan held an insurmountable amount of knowledge when it came to shinigami and clan politics. From a young age, the soul had come to find that his silver tongue would work well in his favor, as such, he’d gained the hearts of many Rukongai Citizens under the good nature of the Gekkō’s name, thus reserving himself a seat as a member of the new Central Forty-Six.
The discussion was kept short, with more threats here and there that were followed by chastising. However, the rumbling of the very ground they stood upon had interrupted them as messengers had come to inform them of the sudden attack on the 3rd District, Hokutan (北端, North End) of the Western Rukongai, by an unknown force. The damage was immeasurable for the time being, and it was unknown that such destruction had taken place in two other districts. Kazan was the first to be mobilized out with his own party as he was to be escorted to the Central Seireitei with the other representatives of the new Central Forty-Six. The Megami and the Gekkō had split, both keen on protecting what was within their power while offering what aid they could. Four days ago, the 77th District had suffered in its entirety, so the events of today’s transgressions could be among that scale of destruction as well.
The peace of the Soul Society was beginning to crumble.