[BSD-RP] Soul Society: Southeast Seireitei

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[Flashback: 98 Years Ago, Fourth Division Barracks]
Stillness came as a storm suddenly quelled, dull locks ribboned superficially floating upwards, violet eyes lidded, though they were as dark as their surroundings. No light sparkled from the pair, almost faded from life. No longer could anyone find sanctuary in its color. In the hug of darkness, a lone vessel drifted aimlessly, descending deeper into its shadows. Almost as if its contents were like the ocean, she too alike a sinking ship.
A lack of any sensation coated her, only the shock of the icy water enveloping her. As if a dark cloud shrouded her mind, the remembrance of her name and where she was, seemed to allude her. Who was she? Where was she? How long had she been here? Has she always been here?
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"BEEP...BEEP....BEEP."
The stale humming of the hospital room rhythmed with the beeps of the machine monitoring the woman soundly sleeping in the bed nearest to the window. Though the room is unfamiliar as a nurse enters, in that hospital bed is a soul that has been woven into their own. Shinobu Abe, plagued with the return of her illness, suddenly collapsed when touring ninth with new recruits.
Her countenance shaded as pale as her eyes, and within seconds - a face of a china doll and a body of rags became of her. Such a young woman, threatened with her footprints fading, and having barely scratched the surface of life, breathed as if a boulder were on her chest - delayed, wheezing, the machines anchored to her supporting her very life.
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How much time has passed?... How long have I been sinking for? This darkness was alike a place out of time, a place to rest without consequence; a sanctuary, a place to recharge and forget the things the world said had to be done. So, in the darkness that stole even her own form, she was almost content to sink forevermore. Letting go. No longer having to fight.
”But I’m going to keep pushing, that’s what I do.” A voice, a saying, echoed within the depths. Reverberating amongst the nonexistent walls of her surroundings.
One that reached Shinobu’s very core, restoring the spark in her violet eyes. Would she dare let go of the reins so easily? As if a string on a marionette, her arm desperately reached to break the surface, clinging to life. Take..me..home.
Her pleas were not left unanswered, her desperation to live in has grown to become a single thread. A cup that became half-full. Suddenly enveloped in the roots of a tree, the murky shadows brightening into shades of lavender, petals of wisteria aimlessly floated amongst her. Another figure soon joined her in the contents, barely splashing, reaching for her. A boy with white hair, purple kimono, painted lips and donning a permanent smile - Shinobu, like meeting an old friend, was conscious of who this being was, returning him with the corner of her lips lifting.
”Shuten...Doji.”
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”GAAASP...COUGHCOUGH.”
Awakening in hysterics, her heartbeat elevating, increasing the rate of the machine before her, alerted the medical staff assigned to her, rushing into her room to tend to her. Not knowing how much time had passed, Shinobu barely recognized her surroundings and herself. Little did she understand too how much her world had truly changed.
Her time spent in catatonic slumber, she slept through the collapse of her division - the tragic loss of her captain, and disappearances of her co-lieutenant and third seat.
Only Jatiri Yabuki, a recruit she did not know well before her collapse, remained. Her very world is now different. It’s said that Shinobu too disappeared with her division once she learned of its demise. The extroverted, flirtatious lieutenant many once knew, was gone. Many refer to her as the Ghost of Ninth.
--
”Lieutenant Abe, I have your lunch ready.” Something about the lieutenant unnerved the nurse, and left her shivering in her boots. Shinobu gazed through her, the fire in her eyes having been doused with ice water. As if she crawled inside an invisible shell and no matter how hard anyone attempted to connect with her, she was unreachable. She moved her eyes more slowly, heavily, an effort to move them. In the light that pours into her room, Shinbou resembles the shadow she's become. The bitterness rising like bile into her mouth and with her division gone, she has no reason to swallow it anymore.
What was she feeling? Abandonment, hopelessness, loss, and everything in between.
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Unable to cope with the loss of her division, and in a state of grief - reconnected with her roots within the second division, approaching her former captain with little care for her wellbeing. Expecting to be cut down by him, wanting to be cut down, wanting to join her captain and co-lieutenant in the afterlife. But her former captain, Kyomu Mukuro, unexpectedly showed her mercy. And with such an action, Shinobu blindly devoted herself to him and the second division - no matter what was asked of her, she would follow.
[Present: Second Division Barracks]
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”Sixth Seat Shinobu Abe.”
The agent addresses her, their voice making it still a difficult task to ascertain anything about their identity, including their sex.
”There’s a situation outside the gates. A Himari Shimizu from Fifth Division is demanding to speak with the Captain. Fourth Seat Ochitsuki is tending to the guest in The Den, Fifth Seat Hoshi was said to be otherwise indisposed. Moya has made contact with her, but her purpose here remains unclear. She says there is a matter only the Captain can assist with.”
Alike an eagle focusing in on their prey, Shinobu’s pupils shrunk - eyeing the messenger shadowed before her with such frost in her eyes, any would freeze if they dared to return her gaze. No words escape her lips, and silence engulfs them both with only the wind of their departure providing relief. She clicks her tongue in annoyance, her lips taut and brows furrowed, the sheer stupidity of this woman was evident upon her features.
Though she evokes a sense of familiarity, a century old memory. Shinobu once in her shoes, outside the barracks with her life bound to someone else. Her chest heaves, releasing from a tight breath before her countenance freezes once more. The wind makes a fine flag of her blanched hair, evanescence from sight without a remnant of her presence ever existing there.
Looming before the entrance to the barracks, the silence is thick and choking, punctuated only by the rapid heartbeat of the blue-haired woman. The fingertips that curled tightly around her hilt were slicked with sweat, the clattering of metal from inside its sheath pairing with her fear. Her mask of confidence is easily shattered by her body language. A cornered cat, with raised fur and a bottle-brushed tail, who is seeking to appear larger than she truly is. Would she flee? It may take awhile for her legs to answer her mind’s plea.
Though, this woman resembled Shinobu a century ago. Her fate too, was in the hands of another. In the hands of this division. It wasn’t compassion that she had for her, but pity. Pity that she was weak, and far from perfection.
”Remove your hand from your zanpakuto if you wish to live.” A throaty growl erupts from Shinobu; emanating a sinking dread, if she were living darkness, for the woman could sense of descending into a place from which there was possibly no return. Her left-hand raises, resembling a calligraphy brush in air - as if she were painting.
”Bakudo #9, Geki.” A crimson hue borders Shinobu, darkening her eyes. Simply staring into her eyes is like drinking poison. Such a beautiful color that belonged to an icy vixen. Like a virus, the crimson aura would soon infect Himari and render her motionless, unable to harness her sword if she felt threatened. A shimmer of her silhouette emerges behind the blue-haired woman, simply as if she were perched there all along with the stealth force man.
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”I suggest you answer his question.”
 

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The last in sound of her screams bounced off the walls surrounding the area. And then it was silent. No sound could be heard from the gates of the Second Division. The stealth squad indeed.
Now what?
That was truly the question. She made herself known, but she had no idea how this was going to go. This could be either a good day for her, a chance to show herself to a Captain she knew deep down could help her reach her new resolve. Or, it could end very badly for her. Ending with her death.
She gripped Fudō Myōō harder, her palms wet with sweat. The possibilities were so infinite that Himari couldn’t even think straight. She was so in her mind that she forgot to keep notice of her surroundings, which probably wouldn’t have mattered for what happened next.
"And who are you, Himari Shimizu of Fifth Division? To demand to speak with our Captain?””
She didn’t jump, but her heart did. Quickening to a beat that could probably make her faint. There was someone behind her. She didn’t even sense him coming. He was like a shadow in the wind, appearing from nowhere.
She quickly turned to face the face of the man before her, her hand still on Fudō Myōō just in case. But, in the back of her mind, she knew she couldn’t win against this man. He would probably be too quick for her. She couldn’t even sense his reiatsu. And the fact that his face was covered by a mask that didn’t even show his eyes filled her with discomfort. But, this was either life or death for her.
Before she could answer the masked man, she felt the presence of someone nearby. Her body bolted with alarm, but she stood still. Her knuckles went white as she gripped Fudō Myōō even tighter.
She would turn her gaze from the man before her, to lay on a woman with light hair. And her eyes are bright purple. She was looking at her, tearing through her soul with her eyes. If Himari hadn’t been a person who also was one with a frosty gaze, she would have turned back. But, her red and gray eyes looked back at the women staring at her, matching her stare.
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‘Who is she? She has to be a seated officer, right?[/i]
”Remove your hand from your zanpakuto if you wish to live.”
The light haired woman spoke to her finally, literally in a growl. Himari’s fear did grow, but her hand didn't move from her sword. Before Himari could speak, suddenly the woman's left-hand raised. Himari watched her movements, seeing the crimson glow coming from her finger. Just from this, she instantly knew the woman was going to perform a Kido spell. And she knew the type of spell just from her movements.
Kido was something she could handle.
””Bakudo #9, Geki!
Ah, a paralysis spell. She knew this spell off the top of her hand, but she didn't let this cloud her judgement. She wondered what the women would do next.
Suddenly, within a flash, the woman was behind her. S he couldn’t move to turn towards the women, which made her almost shake with fear.
”I suggest you answer his question.”
She would have, if only she would have given her the chance. What was with everyone being in such a rush.
Himari would have sighed if she could move. This spell was so weak, Himari could break out of this faster than the women could blink. Himari spent years learning Kido, Kido being the only thing she was good at.
She could break out.
”But
What would happen if she were to break out, would this woman kill her on the spot? What about the masked man? It was two against one.
But, annoyance filled her body. Her eyes would lower to her hand still holding Fudō Myōō. She did tell her to let go of her Zan, but she couldn’t do that while being paralyzed. Even she would have allowed a stronger to let go of his weapon. If they didn't then she would have paralyzed them. It was all backwards.
She didn't want to give this woman any reason to attack her because she couldn’t do what she said so Himari went against her fear, closed her eyes and raised her Spiritual pressure and strained against the bindings of the spell.
And broke out of the spell with ease.
She would slowly turn towards the women, hands up. She wasn't going to draw her sword. But, her eyes glared at the women, showing that she didn’t like the greeting she was getting.
”It would have been nice if you allowed me to do what you said before paralyzing me. So, I broke out just to do what you asked, Miss
She then moved her eyes from the woman to the man, folding her arms over her chest so she could hide her trembling hands.
”I’m going to be upfront with you. I am hardly no one. Just a fourth seat officer of the Fifth. But, I heard about your captain. Captain Mukuro. And I feel like he can help me. I want to become stronger, and that is something I feel I could learn from Captain Mukuro.”
She decided to be honest, her voice cold. Her stare filled with determination. She knew she was no one important enough to request to meet with the captain like this…but her life in the Gotei 13 relied on this.
”If you don’t want to grow, die. I don’t want a weak, pathetic, and cowardly master like you”.
Hearing that from Fudō Myōō did hurt, but it was true. If she didn't grow to her full potential, Fudō Myōō wouldn’t listen to her call. And that was worse than death. She would deserve nothing but death.
She stood straighter. She had to show these people she had no ill intent. None at all. She just wanted to speak to their captain.
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Third Division Barracks
Asahi's Living Quarters
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Sunlight breached the boundaries of the nearby window, reaching the face of the unconscious shinigami. Warmth caressed his face, whispering gently to start the day. Asahi took to life, opening his eyes to see the white of the ceiling above, taking a moment to adjust. His body moved to that of a sitting position with his hands rising to rub at his eyes. A yawn slipped out from his maw, breaking the silence that hung over his quarters.
Scanning across his residence he subconsciously processed all that laid within. A workbench sat in one corner, alchemic tools meticulously placed upon its surface. Storage containers and various plushies taking up a majority of the remaining space. Clutched within the embrace of a large pink bear was none other than the Clown's zanpakuto, Minaoshi. His optics stopped at that sight, forming a smile upon his face.
Swinging his figure to the side, he touched down his feet upon a small fluffy area rug beside the bed. His toes curled at the stray fibers for a moment up until he brought himself to a stand. Asahi reached for the heavens above, letting out a drawn-out groan. Three paces forward and the shinigami stretched backward, touching his palms to the ground behind him. Holding that for about a minute, he brought his legs up from the ground, aiming them upwards. Outstretching his left arm to the side, the male balanced upon one hand, closing his eyes. It was a routine of his when waking to stretch and practice balance, an act that he found most enjoyable. Being a master contortionist and acrobat was mostly a hobby, but they sometimes find combative practicality.
After he felt his balancing could come to an end, Asahi worked his way back to his feet.
"TA-DA!!!"
He exclaimed as if there was an audience to observe the feat, chuckling to himself with a playful tone. Even alone he could amuse himself, finding fun in the smallest things. Over a short time, he ran through his hygienic routine, changed into his uniform, and took note of his daily planner. Asahi retrieved his weapon, glancing at it with an excited expression.
"Goooood morning! It's time to start our day. ♥"
Strapping the lengthy blade onto his back, he took to the hallway outside from his quarters, watching other shinigami of the Third go about their way. Where solitude managed to be enough for him, the presence of others meant more possibilities. Everyone had such varying personalities, priorities, and perspectives, adding a unique flavor to every day. The mundane and repetitious tasks could be spiced up just by a different face being added to the equation. It also helped that there wasn't really anyone that Asahi didn't like to some capacity. Those who may house some animosity towards him still received respect for their disposition and would present them with a smile. Some may call this a weakness if taken at the surface, but this delivery of kindness never conflicted with the task at hand. There was always an acknowledgment of who was a threat or not, who must be killed or saved, regardless of the way he treated others. It was not above him to eliminate anyone who posed a threat to the goals of the Soul Society.
Shinigami in passing greeted Asahi, something he returned with a personal response to each friendly and familiar face. Not many had any foul feelings for him. That was to say that there was no reason to. Sure there may be a few that find his constant bright nature a bit unsettling. How could anyone be so unphased by conflict, death, and serious situations? Was it an act? What could be hidden behind a mask with crescent-shaped lips? His demeanor did raise these alarms but to most it was comforting. A refreshing air from the jaded and angsty soldiers that often filled the ranks of the Gotei 13.
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Shin'ō Academy
The Shinigami Academy
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Eventually, the Clown's stride brought him through the gateway of the Shin'ō Academy. Beholding the newest entries into the institution with an overflowing amount of excitement. The scurrying bodies clad in outfits accented with blue and red, decided by the gender of the individual wearing it. His step came to a pause, appreciating the sight at hand. Any of those before him could end up doing something absolutely amazing.
Asahi made a path for the external training grounds intended for practical lessons in Kidō. His expertise laid within the understanding, application of various spells, and his favorite part, finding ways to use them in unique ways. Kidō was a tool, no different than a blade or one's own body. The limitations to their use were only truly defined by the way the individual can think at the given moment. One could perceive a spell simply as a means to injure or incapacitate an opponent, or they can think outside of that box and find the limitless potential of that single spell.
There was a bit of a hop in the male's step as he made his way to the small group of students that awaited his arrival at the training grounds. They mingled amongst themselves up until they saw him approaching, altering their posture to one that displayed more discipline. Asahi closed the distance and soon stood before them, eyeing them over for a moment with a stern look, one that did not last long.
"It's another wonderful day for training! Last time we discussed proper form and theories involving the execution of Kidō. You've all demonstrated the ability to utilize the first few spells of both Hadō and Bakudō."
Asahi turned and took a few paces away from the group, making a circle before beginning to head back towards them.
"Spellcraft isn't simply about using it at face value. You have to be able to adapt. Adapt to your opponent. Adapt to your environment. Adapt to your own weaknesses. More times than not, lacking fluidity will result in..."
The Fifth Seat stopped only a few centimeters before one of the trainee's faces, looking them straight in the eye with a twisted expression.
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"Death!"
The cadet's face became flushed, uncertain of what to do in this given situation. The stare seemed to go on for an eternity after the final and weighted word. Was this some kind of threat? A scare tactic? Or just a simple truth? The same sentiment resonated within the others that stood nearby. The tension would be broken by a set of giggles making their way out from the officer. His step taking him back to where he stood before, all while giving the brightest of smiles.
"I want to run some practical drills. Buuuut fiiiiirst~ ★"
Wandering over to an equipment rack the short shinigami grasped at a bokken and tossed it at the first trainee he saw. She clutched at it firmly but held a look of confusion.
"I- I thought we were going to be practicing Kidō?"
"We are! It wouldn't be much of a demonstration of versatility if we solely relied on spells. More often than not those opposing you will not even know Kidō! So you of course have to be prepared for ways to succeed in an exchange with the other taking a different approach!"

Asahi pranced his way away from the group a bit, beckoning just the female cadet he had given the wooden sword. She approached unsure of what was going to occur but tried to wear a face of sheer confidence. Standing only a few feet apart the Clown stood with his arms behind his back, one hand wrapping around the wrist of another. His eyes closed and a joyful smile was painted upon his face in the brightest of colors.
"Attack me! Whatever way you like!"
The junior shinigami looked back at her peers for a moment then back at the unmoving man before her. His posture giving no sign of any immediate defense, which gave her a bit of unease. She shook the thought away as it was her directive to strike. Gripping the bokken at two points she lowered it before her, extending a foot before her figure, the other behind. Sliding into range of Asahi, her arms raised the weapon above her head. Tightening her grasp and priming a breath she followed through with a downward slash aligned centered with the smiling male.
Only centimeters from making contact, Asahi took a step outward and forward, moving away from the path of the blade. He raised his right hand with just his index finger extended, aligning it with the midpoint of the training weapon. His eyes slowly opened as his maw opened to utter but one word.
"Shō."
A burst of energy collided with the center of the bokken, applying a force that pushed the blade further off course. The student desperately tried not to lose her weapon, putting all her focus upon not being disarmed, fighting against the force as much as she could. Asahi took advantage of this by reaching forward with his free arm, bending it soon after, and descending it upon her back. Matching that instance of contact, he swept out her legs from beneath her, thrusting her into a path to collision with the ground. Right before her face would meet with the dirt her momentum would stop. The male had grasped at the back of her uniform, preventing the impact. He brought her back to a stand and then looked towards the other students.
"Ya always gotta keep your enemies on their toes!. Kidō is best served as a big surprise! Sure it can just be an outward power but being sneaky works sooo much better. Even if the spell itself is proven ineffective, it could still hold value to create an opening. Creativity is a limit breaker!"
The trainees nodded to their instructor's statements, taking mental notes of what had transpired, working their own theories of future applications. The session continued with the group breaking into pairs and testing ways of utilizing their spells on the fly to get an advantage over the other. All while Asahi sat upon the ground with his legs crossed, enjoying a small bag of candies he drew out from the lining of his hakama. Today, just as every other, was going to be a wonderful day.
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Third Division Barracks
Asahi's Living Quarters
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Sunlight breached the boundaries of the nearby window, reaching the face of the unconscious shinigami. Warmth caressed his face, whispering gently to start the day. Asahi took to life, opening his eyes to see the white of the ceiling above, taking a moment to adjust. His body moved to that of a sitting position with his hands rising to rub at his eyes. A yawn slipped out from his maw, breaking the silence that hung over his quarters.
Scanning across his residence he subconsciously processed all that laid within. A workbench sat in one corner, alchemic tools meticulously placed upon its surface. Storage containers and various plushies taking up a majority of the remaining space. Clutched within the embrace of a large pink bear was none other than the Clown's zanpakuto, Minaoshi. His optics stopped at that sight, forming a smile upon his face.
Swinging his figure to the side, he touched down his feet upon a small fluffy area rug beside the bed. His toes curled at the stray fibers for a moment up until he brought himself to a stand. Asahi reached for the heavens above, letting out a drawn-out groan. Three paces forward and the shinigami stretched backward, touching his palms to the ground behind him. Holding that for about a minute, he brought his legs up from the ground, aiming them upwards. Outstretching his left arm to the side, the male balanced upon one hand, closing his eyes. It was a routine of his when waking to stretch and practice balance, an act that he found most enjoyable. Being a master contortionist and acrobat was mostly a hobby, but they sometimes find combative practicality.
After he felt his balancing could come to an end, Asahi worked his way back to his feet.
"TA-DA!!!"
He exclaimed as if there was an audience to observe the feat, chuckling to himself with a playful tone. Even alone he could amuse himself, finding fun in the smallest things. Over a short time, he ran through his hygienic routine, changed into his uniform, and took note of his daily planner. Asahi retrieved his weapon, glancing at it with an excited expression.
"Goooood morning! It's time to start our day. ♥"
Strapping the lengthy blade onto his back, he took to the hallway outside from his quarters, watching other shinigami of the Third go about their way. Where solitude managed to be enough for him, the presence of others meant more possibilities. Everyone had such varying personalities, priorities, and perspectives, adding a unique flavor to every day. The mundane and repetitious tasks could be spiced up just by a different face being added to the equation. It also helped that there wasn't really anyone that Asahi didn't like to some capacity. Those who may house some animosity towards him still received respect for their disposition and would present them with a smile. Some may call this a weakness if taken at the surface, but this delivery of kindness never conflicted with the task at hand. There was always an acknowledgment of who was a threat or not, who must be killed or saved, regardless of the way he treated others. It was not above him to eliminate anyone who posed a threat to the goals of the Soul Society.
Shinigami in passing greeted Asahi, something he returned with a personal response to each friendly and familiar face. Not many had any foul feelings for him. That was to say that there was no reason to. Sure there may be a few that find his constant bright nature a bit unsettling. How could anyone be so unphased by conflict, death, and serious situations? Was it an act? What could be hidden behind a mask with crescent-shaped lips? His demeanor did raise these alarms but to most it was comforting. A refreshing air from the jaded and angsty soldiers that often filled the ranks of the Gotei 13.
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Shin'ō Academy
The Shinigami Academy
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Eventually, the Clown's stride brought him through the gateway of the Shin'ō Academy. Beholding the newest entries into the institution with an overflowing amount of excitement. The scurrying bodies clad in outfits accented with blue and red, decided by the gender of the individual wearing it. His step came to a pause, appreciating the sight at hand. Any of those before him could end up doing something absolutely amazing.
Asahi made a path for the external training grounds intended for practical lessons in Kidō. His expertise laid within the understanding, application of various spells, and his favorite part, finding ways to use them in unique ways. Kidō was a tool, no different than a blade or one's own body. The limitations to their use were only truly defined by the way the individual can think at the given moment. One could perceive a spell simply as a means to injure or incapacitate an opponent, or they can think outside of that box and find the limitless potential of that single spell.
There was a bit of a hop in the male's step as he made his way to the small group of students that awaited his arrival at the training grounds. They mingled amongst themselves up until they saw him approaching, altering their posture to one that displayed more discipline. Asahi closed the distance and soon stood before them, eyeing them over for a moment with a stern look, one that did not last long.
"It's another wonderful day for training! Last time we discussed proper form and theories involving the execution of Kidō. You've all demonstrated the ability to utilize the first few spells of both Hadō and Bakudō."
Asahi turned and took a few paces away from the group, making a circle before beginning to head back towards them.
"Spellcraft isn't simply about using it at face value. You have to be able to adapt. Adapt to your opponent. Adapt to your environment. Adapt to your own weaknesses. More times than not, lacking fluidity will result in..."
The Fifth Seat stopped only a few centimeters before one of the trainee's faces, looking them straight in the eye with a twisted expression.
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"Death!"
The cadet's face became flushed, uncertain of what to do in this given situation. The stare seemed to go on for an eternity after the final and weighted word. Was this some kind of threat? A scare tactic? Or just a simple truth? The same sentiment resonated within the others that stood nearby. The tension would be broken by a set of giggles making their way out from the officer. His step taking him back to where he stood before, all while giving the brightest of smiles.
"I want to run some practical drills. Buuuut fiiiiirst~ ★"
Wandering over to an equipment rack the short shinigami grasped at a bokken and tossed it at the first trainee he saw. She clutched at it firmly but held a look of confusion.
"I- I thought we were going to be practicing Kidō?"
"We are! It wouldn't be much of a demonstration of versatility if we solely relied on spells. More often than not those opposing you will not even know Kidō! So you of course have to be prepared for ways to succeed in an exchange with the other taking a different approach!"

Asahi pranced his way away from the group a bit, beckoning just the female cadet he had given the wooden sword. She approached unsure of what was going to occur but tried to wear a face of sheer confidence. Standing only a few feet apart the Clown stood with his arms behind his back, one hand wrapping around the wrist of another. His eyes closed and a joyful smile was painted upon his face in the brightest of colors.
"Attack me! Whatever way you like!"
The junior shinigami looked back at her peers for a moment then back at the unmoving man before her. His posture giving no sign of any immediate defense, which gave her a bit of unease. She shook the thought away as it was her directive to strike. Gripping the bokken at two points she lowered it before her, extending a foot before her figure, the other behind. Sliding into range of Asahi, her arms raised the weapon above her head. Tightening her grasp and priming a breath she followed through with a downward slash aligned centered with the smiling male.
Only centimeters from making contact, Asahi took a step outward and forward, moving away from the path of the blade. He raised his right hand with just his index finger extended, aligning it with the midpoint of the training weapon. His eyes slowly opened as his maw opened to utter but one word.
"Shō."
A burst of energy collided with the center of the bokken, applying a force that pushed the blade further off course. The student desperately tried not to lose her weapon, putting all her focus upon not being disarmed, fighting against the force as much as she could. Asahi took advantage of this by reaching forward with his free arm, bending it soon after, and descending it upon her back. Matching that instance of contact, he swept out her legs from beneath her, thrusting her into a path to collision with the ground. Right before her face would meet with the dirt her momentum would stop. The male had grasped at the back of her uniform, preventing the impact. He brought her back to a stand and then looked towards the other students.
"Ya always gotta keep your enemies on their toes!. Kidō is best served as a big surprise! Sure it can just be an outward power but being sneaky works sooo much better. Even if the spell itself is proven ineffective, it could still hold value to create an opening. Creativity is a limit breaker!"
The trainees nodded to their instructor's statements, taking mental notes of what had transpired, working their own theories of future applications. The session continued with the group breaking into pairs and testing ways of utilizing their spells on the fly to get an advantage over the other. All while Asahi sat upon the ground with his legs crossed, enjoying a small bag of candies he drew out from the lining of his hakama. Today, just as every other, was going to be a wonderful day.
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BSD

Administrator

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The woman, this Himari Shimizu, while restraining herself from the agent’s sudden appearance her body still betrayed her. Her increased pulse and breathing, the clenching of her grip upon her blade, her body perspiring as she stands there, frozen before him. Gathering both her courage and strength she turns to face the man who had taken her back. She stares at the stealth agent, unable to gauge anything from the man. It was a one sided truth, as despite his eyes being covered, it was as if Himari was an open book, her secrets laid bare before him.
Still holding her blade, half out of caution, half to ease her mind, to help ease the anxiety seeking to overtake her.

”Remove your hand from your zanpakuto if you wish to live.”

Cold words spoken in a colder tone from a tongue laced in venom. Shinobu Abe’s command precedes her actual arrival, or rather the physical manifestation of her form. Her left hand smoothly raises into the air, her fingers tracing into the air before her as she paints a symbol through spiritual power. Like a skilled calligrapher the symbol is formed almost as quickly as she had raised her hand. Red light bathes and encapsulates the Fifth Division Officer, now ensnared before the trenches of Second Division.

”I suggest you answer his question.”

Himari finds herself in a predicament, frozen, paralyzed in place by the spell with her hand still holding her blade, yet simultaneously being ordered to relinquish her hold on it, an act impossible so long as the spell maintains its hold on her. Was this a test? Or, were they trying to entrap her, forcing her to act in a way that would justify cutting her down and ending her life? How easy it would be.

Surprisingly, the woman does not shrink into fear, but has somehow been emboldened by the present circumstance. She shows that what she lacks in strength and mental fortitude, she more than makes up for in her skill and mastery in the Demon Arts. Geki, a level 9 binding spell cast by the hands of a Kido specialist upon the body of a Kido Master. The woman’s eyes reflect the insult she felt as the spell crumbles beneath both her will and the might of her spiritual pressure. It seems that, despite being a weak and hapless girl, she was still a Kido Master indeed. Interesting.

With the spell dismissed Himari turns her attention now to Shinobu, though annoyed, aggravated she does her best to ensure she shows no signs of hostility towards this woman. Shinobu had used Kido once, next time it could be a blade at her throat.

”It would have been nice if you allowed me to do what you said before paralyzing me. So, I broke out just to do what you asked, Miss

The woman snaps back, their eyes meet, glare meeting and matching glare. Still, this show of strength was just that..a show. Her hands trembling still from the fear that had not fully been expelled.

”I’m going to be upfront with you. I am hardly no one. Just a fourth seat officer of the Fifth. But, I heard about your captain. Captain Mukuro. And I feel like he can help me. I want to become stronger, and that is something I feel I could learn from Captain Mukuro.”

The man tilts his head, turning towards Shinobu to gauge her reaction. From Himari’s words it sounded as if she wished to join their fold, to commit herself into the service of their Captain. Curious, was she willing to make the sacrifices necessary to become stronger? Was she willing to kill that light inside her to tread the road of blood and darkness? Was she aware? The Captain wouldn’t focus on training or teaching her to be strong, no — the only thing she would learn, and could learn was how to kill, and how to do so effectively. She would be asked to lie, and cheat, and backstab and betray those she had trusted and those who trusted her, to potentially capture and even cut down current and former peers, Academy classmates, and Division members.

Did Himari have the resolve to do so?

Personally, he was curious, interested even in seeing whether or not she was steeled enough to do the unthinkable...but that wasn’t his call. Only their Captain could decide if she was worth the chance, worth the trouble. He says nothing, the floor left to Shinobu, a Lieutenant turned Sixth seat, she herself still striving to show her resolve and commitment to the very same man Himari wished to learn under. Was it fate, or happenstance that would see the path of these two women cross?

Folding his arms he takes a step back and then, he is gone. Perhaps to silently observe from a distance, perhaps to report what has happened to the Phantom himself. As of now, it was left in Shinobu’s able hands. If Himari wished to meet the Captain, she would have to go through Shinobu, concurrently if Shinobu sought to confirm the validity of Himari’s words and her resolve, she would need to escort the fourth seat, she herself taking a chance, gambling with her life should Kyomu be displeased.
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BSD

Administrator
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Kyomu remains seated at his desk, the Go board still before him, yet his double is nowhere to be seen. From the pieces on the board it appears that the black pieces have overtaken the white stones. As far as anyone and everyone within the barracks is concerned, the Captain has never left his desk, has remained holed inside, isolated from the rest of the squad while they labored and trained. The man truly was a phantom to them.
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While isolated in the darkness of his office, like before an agent steps out, exhaled from the shadows that consume the enclosed space. His presence goes unaddressed by the Captain, neither turning to look at the agent, speak to him or acknowledge his existence in any form. While this would be disheartening to other subordinates in another division, those in the Onmitsukido have been hardened and conditioned to expect such a treatment from their Commander in Chief, to expect otherwise was only bringing torment on one’s self.
”....Captain-”
A hesitant voice calls out to the Ghostly Assassin. This is the second time today within a span of a few hours that they have come to disturb him, come to report and bring news to the man who demands they know everything about everyone. An unreasonable requ-no, demand — who were they to say anything of it? They were...nothing. Insignificant cogs in an otherwise well tuned machine. They were expendable pieces, easily replaced and Captain Mukuro would not hesitate to replace any and everyone he deemed worthless. Up to this point, Kyomu has still chosen not to say anything to the man, no orders to report, nor has he dismissed the man from his presence. He simply sits there, silently.
”Reporting sir. There has been a disturbance out at the barrack’s gates. Himari Shimizu of Squad Five has come. She's demanding to speak with you and you alone sir.”
Still no response from the Captain who’s done nothing, has said nothing since the man’s arrival. Completely unfazed by this worthless bit of intel, Kyomu continues peering ahead. The agent steals a glance at the Captain, wondering to himself if Kyomu was even truly present, yet proceeds onward all the same.
”She’s been met by Sixth seat Shinobu Abe. From what the other’s hidden and stationed nearby could gather, this Himari is stating that you’re the only one who can help her to become stronger. We..well, it's our belief that she means to join us. That she wishes to become your subordinate, a member of the Second Division and the Onmitsukido..sir.”
He completes his report, including the facts of what has transpired, what's been said along with his own thoughts and assessment of the situation. He presents the Captain with every bit of relevant information before awaiting his command. The seated Captain in response says….nothing, ever motionless and mute regarding the matter. Not a sliver of life, or emotion has been reflected from him, he’s offered no reaction to the news from his subordinate. The man stands behind the phantom, having presented all the information he remains uncertain on what to do next. Was the Captain expecting more information? Was he expected to leave, no..he hadn’t been dismissed. He racks his brain, attempting to predict or assess exactly what his Captain might do, might say, might be waiting for. Being around the Captain, reporting to him was always like dancing through a field of landmines. Tiptoeing around, hoping not to trigger an explosion, walking a razor’s edge.
”Bring her to me. Also...call for Ochitsuki, have him bring his current project with him.”
His voice grounds the agent back to the moment, spares him from further torment of trying to figure out what his next move would or should be. The man takes a step back before bowing, fading back into the darkness, dispersing into nothingness.
The massive gates of the Second Division that had been locked and sealed for a Century finally begin to creep open. Concurrently, like before as both Himari and Shinobu engage in a battle of cold and sharp glares, their respective views of one another become blocked by a single man clad in black appearing before them as if he’d been there the entire time.
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”Himari Shimizu of the Fifth Division. By orders of our Captain you are to come with me. Shinobu Abe, you can return to your duties.”
The man turns towards Himari, locking eyes with her as he addresses her, never averting his gaze even when addressing Shinobu. The gates to the grounds of the Second Division stop halfway, the opening only large enough for them to enter one at a time. He begins walking towards the gates, expecting the source of today’s ruckus to follow behind him.
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Upon entering theDivision’s grounds they are met with the cold murderous gazes of the Onmitsukido. Their grips on their blades, unfaltering, each individual unmoving, unflinching, the focus of their attention, their gazes and intent fully trained on Himari. So long as she treads behind in the shadow of her guide, she is safe as those watching her neither advance or retreat. The moment she took a single misstep, the moment she faltered could potentially spell her end. Burdened by an already stressful mission, the journey towards her goal becomes increasingly more daunting as she marches down the line as if she were being guided to her execution, surrounded by those willing to kill her at a moment’s notice. Guiding her through the training grounds, through the barracks she’s led towards the massive hall that houses the Captain’s office. Several light knocks announces his return, a formality performed only in the presence of a “guest”. The doors swing open automatically, as the guide steps back granting Himari entry into the Hall..into the darkness...into the snake’s lair.
Around the time of Himari’s arrival another agent has appeared in the workspace of the Fourth Seated Oda, whispering the words of the Captain into his ear, stealing a glance at Ochitsuki’s latest “visitor”. With the Captain’s orders relayed, the agent turned messenger vanishes into the dark, leaving the tormentor alone once more with the tormented.
Himari had gained what she desired, an audience with the Phantom...but what would this audience cost her? What price was Himari willing to pay...no, would be forced to pay by having such a request fulfilled?
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