[BSD-RP] Soul Society: Southwest Seireitei

[Shinigami]

The Exposition
Her blood was pumping, and her ears pounded with the sound of her beating heart going erratic. As chaotic as things had occurred, one right after the other, Yasu had kept her eyes open, steeled so not as to miss any detail, save for the falling cherry blossoms. While those around her begin to fall unconscious, the extreme willpower and spiritual prowess that lie within her and Captain Oda keep them from falling victim to the ominous kido that took the weak-willed cavalry. Unlike how they touch against the sea of bodies, those frail petals surround the pot, never even managing to graze its wooden exterior.
“Traitor.”
She hissed, venom laced in her voice that managed to get strength back at the sight of Shirogane. Within the center of it all stands the man of the hour, besides the burning pot. She doesn’t know whether to laugh or cry because she was right to bring him to justice, but the insufficiency since the beginning was wasted. There he stood in disgusting pride, hand resting against the lid of the pot, and burned.
FWOOOOOOOOOOOM!
The ominous glow that acted as a beacon for those hollows that came unshackled from their prisons came rushing forth towards the unadulterated beam of raw energy. It was stifling and grew much more suffocating the longer it went untouched. It wreaked havoc, splitting through wood and cement as if nothing happened to be set there in the first place. Yasu can’t help but break her standing position from the overwhelming sensation that stands before her, rivaling the experiences against the exposure to the Captain Commander’s reiatsu. It’s deafening, blinding, and… and it breathes.
In. She feels pulled. She sees the others beginning to fall victim to the pot as was intended for the vile Hollows that littered the premises around them. Yasu needed to do something. If she couldn’t save them before she could do it now, but her body wouldn’t respond. With panicked eyes, she looked down at her trembling hands that dare not lift from her sides.
Move…
Their sleeping bodies draw closer, even the barely conscious Arashi, begins to near the fiery evil. They’ll die if she doesn’t do something. One finger manages to twitch, and Yasu feels as if she regains what limited breath possible. Another follows, and Yasu finds herself sliding forward, her foot stuck to the cracking grounds.
Move!
She bit down on her tongue, and pain immediately replaced the stiffness in her body, and with fingers spread apart, hands raised before slamming with a clap muted by the continuous roar of the pot and those beasts that become one with it. Though she would let herself be heard, from the pit of her gut, she inhales...
The Rise

“BANKAI! HASASAKU KUROSAWA!”
Kurosawa spreads, violently, quickly, flooding the grounds within the building through the cracks and crevices, seeping out from beneath their feet, splashing against all surfaces from the pot to the walls alike, and grows. The slime grabs hold of everyone fallen that it possibly could by whatever limb available, enemy and ally alike. The grip around their arm or leg is so tight that it’d leave abrasion scars depending on their durability, and it would only grow as it reaches around their bodies.
Yasu was enraged. The fear was gone now that the intent to protect completely overshadowed her meek design. If looks could kill, Yasu would’ve been imprisoned long ago. Those black masses hold down those flimsy bodies, including Arashi’s just as he nears the pot and begins to drag him back by his feet, thickening and to overlap like thick tar. It locked him in place against the wreckage with the others that fell from both the petals and the drastic energy that drowned out.

Around the area, lotuses rose, buds, stalks, and ten bloomed pieces, scattered across the sea of black. While the gracious Fifth Captain finds the heart to keep her and the others safe, she can only do her part to help and lessen his burden and lessens the hold she has on him so that he may perform accordingly. She could’ve caused a scene just so that they wouldn’t have entered this bastard’s place, or at least stalled long enough for her gatherers to come forth with information, but that was the past, and they were here, now, fighting against the common enemy.
And then… it’s silent. The pot has eaten its fill, and it should be over. Right? With an unwavering gaze, Yasu seethes, her teeth clenched so tightly that they might crack. In her pool of tar, it begins crawling up her arms and legs, encasing her body in the slimy substance. It reaches her waist, and grows more fervently, her torso gone next; it tickles her neck and quickly cloaks it just the same. Tendrils swarm around her body, and they pull acting as if they were dragging her into the black marsh. Her pink locks become as dark as midnight as it claws its way to her face. The left side goes, and the right stays locked on that ominous silhouette before it too disappears; her body sinks into the black depths, only to rise with such a sinister image that those would not expect of the bumbling lieutenant.
“Hōi-tai.”

The Climax
Those glowing white pupils blinked but never broke the path of the original gaze. Standing by the silent pot was none other than Shirogane Kuchiki, but the air around him matched her own. Something had changed, and with a closer look, those bright eyes of hers lowered into a sneer. Her mouth tore open, a malevolent smile spreading across that face of hers. Her tongue whipped around, oozing the black substance that encased her body. Guttural growls grew from the center of her chest, and she lowered her stance, inching forward slowly as if stalking prey. There are many shadows to hide her, but just as many risks. There was little tell on how the Kuchiki had changed, but it was more than apparent that it was nothing good.
Selfish.
Dangerous.
A threat to the very society that he swore to protect, the law-abiding shinigami existed no more. She can clearly see that Captain Oda is clearly conscious and devising a strategy. While she had no plan nor possible idea to take care of the pot, she could only hope that the virtuous new captain did. Instead, her sights were set on the antagonist of this sequence.
She breathes. It’s soft at first. And with the time that passes, it grows heavier. The creaking of the wooden beams and crumbling of the walls shake the silence. What is she waiting for?
The tar-like substance drips from the ceiling, landing without a sound as it crashes against the black sea. It’d crawled up the walls, blocking any possible openings that were created by the outburst of the pot upon its release that saved a bountiful amount of individuals. Though it held no candle to the Kido Corps’ barrier that sat refined outside of the main manor.
And the flash of white begins it all. Tenzen goes for the pot, and that leaves her with Shirogane. Near simultaneously to the drop of his knee, she clenches her fists, and by Shirogane’s feet, sopping claws take hold of his ankles and begin overlapping one after the other, increasing the viscosity that would only grow harder against friction upon capture and resistance since the swallowing of the pot. That tar would begin to climb up his person rapidly, creating a sort of netting that would hold him in place whilst the Fifth did as he must before setting the Kuchiki alight. She wades back and forth, constantly moving, waiting for anything.

 

[Shinigami]

The cold and dead stare had yet to cease from this single Onmitsukido member. Fear was not an option, and mirroring the fourth seat before him, he too grasped at his own blade, and crouched, ready to strike when the voice of the priestesses rang, issuing a warning to wanderers that dare to step foot upon Sixth Division’s grounds. Shusuke had left, in a quiet fit that he could not pry information from this one, and went on a path to find someone that would.
Several more gathered before the priestesses and he could only look on in a blank stare. Had they not heeded the message? Approaching the very division they were told to stray away from. While there was no need for his own involvement, lessening the body count should something come from that barrier would be best. However, his priority was still his lieutenant, that is until the arrival of another member.

“The Kuchiki matriarch is in our possession and en route to Fourth Seat Fujioka for questioning… As for Lieutenant Yūgure, she has made it clear for us to not interfere, but…”
She trailed off, and he released a soft sigh. There was a chance that she may not come home, and both were more than aware. The only one left in the dark was none other than the Captain, and he was already irate at the news of their missing third seat... He was frustrated that all he could do was sit and wait. He was in the dark as much as the rest of them were.
“Head back, and find Captain Mukuro immediately. He has to know.”
“But--”
“Go. I’ll take full responsibility for today's outcome. Hurry, quickly.”
She managed a meek nod and disappeared as if she didn’t exist at all. He turned back, his lone eye locked on the barrier, wondering just what was happening on the inside… and whether or not his lieutenant would make it out alive and well. Looking around the vicinity, he managed to catch the eyes of the others lying in wait and ordered a retreat from the barracks far enough from the vicinity of the priestesses and party alike. If the order was issued, those surrounding the area and approaching the Sixth will be apprehended and taken to the Maggot's Nest as it was under their jurisdiction.
It was a dire time, where the outcome could not be predicted by insider nor outsider.
Southwest ———————————— traveling to ———————————— Southeast

 

[Shinigami]

"Shirogane.........is that all you have? Pathetic. Worthless. No son of mines will be this weak! I shall not allow my son to be some mediocre half-wit like their Father. Now again!"
She yelled with such a cutthroat tone while she wields a blade in one hand, staring down at a small noble boy, Shirogane Kuchiki. The poor boy had been panting heavily for each second that passes to gather a second wind to continue on this vicious training. Small dots of sweat trickled down from the forehead to the chin, dripping from that point and onto the small puddle where the rest of the sweat landed. Both knees and a single hand were planted on the wooden floor, and the other hand had a firm grip on the bokken, a white oak wooden sword. The tip of this tool is pointed towards the floorboard, using it as a crutch, the hold he had was firm, but his body lacks the strength and will to stand. He no longer could move to his feet, beaten and battered. The tear of his training attire was along the edges and shoulder, bruises along the cheek, arms, and legs. How can one continue like this? The sword he uses to stay somewhat at least stable crumbled from under him due to the woman swatting away that support with her training tool. She leans in by bending forward to get a better view of her too weaken son.
"Just as I thought. You are weak. Your Father died because he was feeble, physically, and mentally. This clan needs a leader, and as the future Heir, we need a strong leader, one that takes what they want. Even if it means killing a few to save the many, you, my son, is that leader. But if you continue to show weakness, I'll have to kill you myself like I did you're Father. I'll start over and have a new child to take your place; you wouldn't be the first, and I'll be damn if you be the-"
SMMMMAAAACCKKKK
Her words fell short when a loud smacking sound ensued inside this training room, Shirogane mustered up whatever will he could summon up at that time to surprisingly strike his mother with the bokken across the cheek. She didn't wince, and she didn't flinch, not a single sound when that wood met with her once smooth cheek, now bruised and red. Oddly enough, she had this silent blank stare, but a devilish smile, that would have made the atmosphere a little uncomfortable. He never removed the wood from her cheek, his eyes filled with this ferocious stare, burning a hole into his mother's soul. Misaki did not appear afraid at all of Shirogane, not a single ounce of a reaction except a smile was all she offered. Could she be hiding behind that smile to hide that fear? She underhandedly grasps the boy chin, two of her fingers pressed into the cheek on one side, the thumb on the other. Her clutch was solid and rough, Misaki eyes seemed more devious and twisted like a woman possessed. Being this close to someone who had this strong emanating passion of lust, the extent of this lust could be blood or something else? This woman looks straight into her son, Shirogane eyes as if she was trying to slip on this mask of innocence to hide this "passion." He didn't know what she wanted or what was about to happen; fear came across Shirogane's face. And all she said were three words.
"That's my boy."

Within the confines of the hallway, once Mother Kuchiki was escorted from the room. The Lt. was trying to ponder on how to proceed from there, trying to come up with ways to advance the next step in a way that wouldn't be perceived by others so easily. The moment she had come up with the next move, she left her members, and the mother to their own devices as the members of the stealth force was to escort her out as a witness? For protection? Of course, she wouldn't be alone with just them, she had her guards, much like her son, Royal guards also had come to aid the council member for as long she was on imperial grounds. At the same time, the stealth force confines the beautiful woman of the Kuchiki to a smaller square space, close enough that they were about a foot or two away. The royal guards also boxed in the members into a similar fashion but with more space. There were four stealth force members, as well as four noble guards. They continued to wall the path of the corridor in pairs since the hallway only provided room enough for two people to walk side by side. Misaki was in the center of this pattern with no one next to her. Suddenly, the two royal guards that led the way came to an abrupt stop. The two royal guards in front turn around to face the two of the second division members behind them.
"What do you think you are doing?"
A member of the stealth force asked with caution, and they were ready, attentive to what's about to happen. The two royal guards, dressed in purple, removed their blades slowly, by reaching over their shoulder. The other members of the onmitsukido in the back turned around to face the last two members of the noble's royal guardsmen, which they too saw them with their weapons drawn. However, with their backs turned away, Misaki didn't seem like she was going to get herself involved, having this innocent about her. She stood in the center of it all, a standoff between guards and stealth force. They were looking to tear each other apart until only one side stood tall. The sleeves of the royal garment were connected, due to her hands hiding in either sleeve, concealing whatever is underneath. One of those arms decided to pull back from the envelope, and the two sleeves are now becoming detached only this time a short black cord-wrapped handle appeared and followed by a full-tang carbon steel blade with a copper color tsuba. The edge was half-way outside of the coat but without waiting for the rest. She quickly drew the rest of the sword out, leaving a soft ringing sound, which their deaths became a quick session where she struck down the members from the back in a few seconds or less, as fast as they could use flash step. They each fell to the side with a deep wound along their spinal, some vertical, some horizontal. The injury is only as long as the nagasa itself, about 12 inches long. The royal members did not speak a word, shown no reaction. The procreator of the Kuchiki did not move but stared at their lifeless bodies.
"You are trespassing on royal grounds. I cannot allow you to live. Excuse me....."
She stepped over their bodies like they were nothing; they are nothing. Walking along the path by herself, the guards stood on standby, and each of them made a stabbing motion to the head of each stealth force member. Double tapping the already slain members, this was to ensure their deaths are confirmed. Blades placed back into the sheath while following their lady behind her. In the peer of darkness on the opposite end of the corridor, a pair of young female eyes were met about five foot three feet in height. She saw the horror that ensued the hallway. Her eyes weren't fear but of confusion.

Listen while you read

The true intentions of the self-proclaimed Head of the Kuchiki family have finally come to light. With the help of Captain Tenzen Oda, the man who help achieved what seems to have been an impossible goal. He approved the pot to reach the Kuchiki Manor without first inspecting the people in question. He then allowed Shirogane to manipulate his actions through words and influence by getting to this point, being overly cautious and over-analytical, even when Lt tried to interfere the first time. He still went forth with proceeding with the operation, without knowing he was helping with a more devious plot. He couldn't have known of the true intentions of the plan, but he knew Shirogane was up to no good and yet still helped. After this day, if anyone were to blame or partial, it would be the new Captain of the Fifth Division. Could the former member of the Gotei 13, retired police of division 6 that suppose to enforce the law, take credit for manipulating everything and everyone, including Central 46 at his disposal? Well, Shirogane managed to kill all the Elders of the council, except for one. Knowingly that with those members out of the picture, there was no elder to impose him. To assumed power of the clan, and to use that very same prestige to gain favor with central 46. A government that has always been so eager to find any solution to a complication they cannot handle or choose to ignore. But through them, Shirogane had been able to move the pot to his imperial grounds by appealing to their "cause". Then what made it even more effortless, Tenzen Oda became Captain just in time to make it all happen. Oh, how foolish the Captain is for allowing this to move so far the way it did. He shall be thankful later for his participation in making the plan thus.
Nevertheless, after today Shirogane would be in Captain Kyomu shoes, viewed as an untrusting traitor, a liar to some. Those who see him as a liar are blind by their feelings. Shirogane didn't lie; he carried out precisely what he set out to do, which was to dispose of the contents inside the pot. Removing the contents of the container was him absorbing the power of hollows. Now, most would call him a traitor; this wouldn't be the first time Shirogane had to act outside of the law to bring justice. He did it once before when framed for murder. Only this time, he committed a crime on royal grounds that was of clan's business and not the business of the gotei 13. Therefore what crime did he commit? If there were a crime that had been committed, it would be everyone's loyalty that is currently blind and misplaced—following and obeying with no hesitation, pushing the truth under the rug because it is so easy to ignore the reality. Some have not yet come to learn it, but how could they be aware of something that that has never been brought to light? Shirogane shall provide in due time, only when that time is right. History is being created and unfolding within the SouthWest Seireitei; no matter what's to happen next once it is all said and done, it shall be the day everyone remembers Shirogane Kuchiki.
After today a mark shall be left on the Seireitei, mainly division 6. The petals developed around those that's been targeted by their effects. One by one, each affected individual has fallen under its spell, even the likes of Arashi were using every ounce of his will to fight it off; it won't be long before he falls under its complete spell. Hollows filled the room where the mastermind behind it all finally made himself known, which mobilize the movements of the white mask beasts. Furthermore, all eyes have been on the man's pure form without paying any mind to the second form that had still been present. Too focused on the man whose hand rests on to the lid, the pot of evil. Her voice was unable to reach the Captain in time if only she had that strength and the will to speak louder only if she had been capable of getting here faster in time before Captain oda fell for Shirogane tricks. Even though he remains nonexistent, he was standing in his position no longer, removed from his place, and he did not need to be around any longer. And then it happened........

Listen while reading

Barely opened the lid, and it erupted into an explosion of unimaginable power. It didn't even bother to wait for the cover to be entirely removed from its lips before exhaling the breath that is held in for an eternity—releasing this magnificent yet horrifying dynamism into the sky—tearing a massive hole into the roof of this building until it reaches a point in stopping. In which, it would collide into the barrier itself, causing everyone within the newly decorated room to lose breath, all functionality of their movements and thinking process. It is only allowing them the function to feel the heaviness of the pressure that is causing them to pour onto them. And with Shirogane being so close to the pot, anyone could be assumed the worst had happened to him. That he has gotten the full effect of what they were all afraid of, but they weren't exactly sure what, but it shouldn't be good news. But the beacon of evil and destruction had finished releasing its breath, and now it immediately inhaled everything within the vicinity like a black hole. During the opening of the lid and the damage, it caused one individual stood away speaking words that wouldn't reach anyone else ears. For they weren't visible to anyone around, but they stood watching them from the back. The voice of the individual would be deafening to others nearby due to the roar of the pot.
"Raimei no basha, itoguruma no kangeki, hikari mote kore o mutsu ni wakatsu"
They recited these words from a distance with two fingers pointed in the direction of the one who begins to struggle and start to feel their body being tugged by the pot.
"Bakudo number 61: Rikujōkōrō"
As their hands trembled and the voice recited the final command on the spell, the beams of light traveled with such speed that it would have reached them, attached to them before another second took place. This spell specifically neutralized all movements once the six rods of light slams into the target's midsection. Even the parts that were not struck with the rods would be incapable of moving at this time. But it would not be, the moment this was cast, another action follows suit if successful with the first spell. The only difference there were no words spoken, it didn't take long to conjure up either, the next action to follow after Rikujōkōrō, was more condensed in size. It packed more of a piercing effect, where the beam that had been released a second after would be unleashed as a thin blue stream vs. those who have yet to master control of their reiryoku. Where it would be too broad and have a less penetrated impact but moreso of a blast impact, it traveled even faster than the six rods. Due to its discharge being compressed, it leaves them to both meets with the target in a split second. The primary aim is for the midsection, while the secondary purpose dead in the center of the skull of the pink-haired female, which is to exit out from the other side and continues its path until it comes to a stop. This thin stream of light was none other than Hadō #4. Byakurai (白雷, Pale Lightning), concentrated blue flash of lightning.
If this was the end for her, she served her purpose well, for she was to believe that she was able to conceal herself among the royal guards. Unknown to the fact that Shirogane was aware of her actions inside the manor and even within Division 6 when she arrived. Lt was to believed that she was able to move freely, conducting a spying mission. Running around the manor, Shirogane believes at one point that the real Lt was in the cell, while the other had been running around his manor a clone. It was quite impressive that it fooled him. However, he allowed her to do as she pleases because there was no point in whom she may go, too, no reason to stop her. He wanted her to feel she had things going, that her mission would be successful, allowing her to do so that her premeditated death wasn't going to go in vain. Head noble, allowing her moment where she could feel successful in her objectives. Now her life has run its course if some voice could whisper to her in those final moments. It would ask her a straightforward question........
"Do you fear death!?"
Furthermore, how would someone be capable of performing such a task during this sinister atmosphere? One that causes everyone nearby to be unable to breathe the air, unable to function and breathe? If one could see the attacker, it would have been Shirogane's inverted version. He isn't a living organism like Shirogane and everyone else, but a materialization of his likeness and power. Therefore he could not suffer like everyone else.
Nevertheless, he didn't go away permanently; he wasn't recalled away by the will of the master. He fled the area by using the mirror to shift him away, a technique that has been spammed throughout the last bit of this event. He has gotten away from the area since he wasn't being targeted or focused on, which allowed him the opportunity to conduct a more "civil" action against the target, Lt. Yasu. Whether this attack was out of spite due to the history they share or because he gave his word on what would happen if she attacked those royal guards. Would be left for anyone's guess now.

Shirogane that remains in the room would be left in the dark with the Tenzen, who wasn't attacked or asleep like Arashi, who managed to reach towards Shirogane's feet like some groveling peasant who was pleading for their life. The Head Kuchiki no longer was the same as he stood among the darkroom; he remains silent. Still, they could see his silhouette form before the pot until it glowed to reveal this perverse sight of a man that used to be like Tenzen. A shinigami. With this identity, Shirogane can become his own, an identity that he could be compared too. An identity that makes him far more superior and power that exceeds beyond that of a shinigami and hollow in this generation has ever obtained. A power that is beyond incomprehensible, he could feel it coursing through him as this mask emanating the power through his veins. Becoming the first of his kind in this generation. His power could not be felt or sensed at the moment, whether it is because of the cloak he still wears, unbeknownst to everyone else, or because his power is in rest mode, he has yet to showcase the power he absorbed. But the mask.....could be viewed as something vicious, a true calamity of evil. The design of this intricate was something vile and wicked. With nine bone-like spikes appears around the outline of the mask, four one the right, five on the left. The mouth resembles that of a hollow for sure, the structure of the jaw, the centerpiece that goes up the mask vertically. Not too mention the darkness of the eye-holes, the only thing that wasn't covered, but it seems his eyes hide in the shadows of his mask.

Beneath the darkness of the eye holes, an ominous red glow slowly appears, which would now and should be visible to the likes of Tenzen. Who was currently performing techniques to seal the pot away with two different types of kido, but to the highest degree possible, the question is, why did Shirogane let it happen? Did he feel like he didn't need the pot any longer? One could assume that his quest for power that he now possesses has fed the arrogance and felt unthreatened even with the jar sealed and removed from play. Surely with the pot being "dead," he still would have given him more unlimited power. He didn't move or speak any long monologues; the time for speaking was over; there was no room to boast...this time. All he ever wanted to do for this silent moment was to stare in the faces of those who fear him; running wasn't even a thought. There was no point in running right now; already, the people had flocked towards the barrier like it was some statue people worshipped. Or something that was "their" god. Sooner or later, that barrier will fall. Whether by Tenzen's will or through the means of his death. Little did Tenzen know if Shirogane were to try and retreat, the barrier would prove to be useless against Shirogane ways of leaving.
Furthermore, Tenzen is handicapped without a zanpakuto; he would be forced to use his primary skills in battle, Kido, and intellect. He could feel the power around the Captain, generating his reiatsu to prepare for battle. He could already tell by his motion, his looks, he was strategizing. Soon a purple orb of reiatsu had been targeted towards Shirogane. He was familiar with this kido, and what it was capable of, that kido could harm a regular individual but not much harm to this new form of Kuchiki. He did not fear the power of the kido itself, but he did find a use for it. He wouldn't allow the Captain's kido to be wasted only to be blocked or dodged. Instead, one of the many mirrors would manifest in between the master and the path of the kido. The reflective surface of the mirror with a metal amalgam on the outline of the surface would be somewhat angled diagonally so that kido would reflect off the glass surface and aim towards Lt Yasu, dead or alive. Had she face death by the hands of the perversion of Shirogane's former design, her body would now get the proper send off to turn to dust. Without any chance of anyone being able to locate the body. Despite having to harness this new blessing, Shirogane knew his power had increased tenfold, maybe even more than that. It's hard to say how much power he gains, but Tenzen would need backup regardless of how skillful of a Captain he may be.
As the kido bounced off Shirogane heels lift from two inches above the ground, the muscles within his calves tensed, the already built up reiryoku within the soles are now set and ready, zanpakuto in hand. It didn't take long for Shirogane to propelled himself forward into a dash, the ground beneath his feet caved, much like the structure of this building. The weight and pressure weaken due to him launching himself forward, a b-line towards Captain Tenzen, who waited with certainty that he was ready. But was he truly prepared? The dash wouldn't be a typical dash with speed where one takes off like a rocket visibly, but there was a hint of flash step within the rush. It would be difficult to tell if he entered flash step motion, or did he only take a step forward due to the fact. The moment he leans forward, he disappeared and reappeared within the split of a second. A glowing red orb in hand reached out towards Tenzen's face as he quickly bled into view, ready to have him within his clutches. The momentum behind Shirogane's movement would have him continue on this path but taking the Captain with him. Crashing into multiple walls of the already broken manor, but whatever obstacle in their way would no longer exist. Nothing would disturb their trajectory.
The masked Kuchiki would be staring in the eyes of Tenzen, who and if he found himself in the hands of this masked individual. He would find it very difficult to be released from this hold, even pushing through walls with his body like a battering ram. The pressure around them would be weighty like how the room was before, unable to breathe correctly, incapable of functioning, that is, the pressure leaking from Shirogane's presence. Perhaps it is from the touch of Shirogane that only Tenzen could feel this pressure he couldn't sense earlier. Before Tenzen gets any ideas to react, upon take off from Tenzen's position, a red dot that was formed within the palm from before now taken hold Tenzen in custody. Upon its release, if Tenzen had been inadequate to take action to protect himself, he could more likely die right there. The blast itself upon release was condensed, focused while it stretched to decimate the rest of the vicinity of the Kuchiki grounds. That blast would stretch until it reaches the barrier on the outside, or someone stops it.

 

[Shinigami]

The priestesses face was hidden completely. It was quite ominous to look at and it was difficult for him to not put a face to a voice but she remained silent all the same. Similar treatment to which he received from the hands of his former squad members, Shusuke wasn't sure if it was his air of perplexity that was keeping him from receiving the information he required or just the arrogance of those he came across. Nonetheless, it did not lessen his resolve. He could feel something strange brewing within his Division barracks, an energy that felt like it was mummified but the power was still leaking out as a leaking faucet would. It radiated off of the surface of the barrier put up by the 5th Division for containment while the job was underway. He was impressed that this force could still be felt.
It wasn't long after he had introduced himself to the priestess of the Kido Corps that he was interrupted by another Shinigami. By the looks, he was blonde, fair skin, and flamboyant in approach. At the present time Shusuke was all business, not having any time for any foolish or frivolous tasks that he felt were beneath his current goal. The Shinigami introduced himself as Katsuo Oda, the last name being familiar, he wondered if he had any relation to the new Captain Oda of Squad 5. His eyes wide, and voice full of hidden excitement, Shusuke could tell he hadn't seen many crises or experienced any real anguish or dubious feelings. He just looked at the young, blonde Shinigami in absolute contempt for a number of reasons; he wished for that youthful vigor he once had, and to be as naive as he was in this particular moment. He had asked Shusuke for help in evacuating the residents from the Rukongai, seeing as he and his partner travelled here to do so. They traveled from their own Division but what brought them here in the first place...? He saw a female in the sky peering down all that she observed. What was she waiting for?Was there something dire going on in the Rukongai that needed attention as well? Regardless, it wasnt high on Shusukes priority list at this moment. He was more concerned about getting the barrier down, and getting inside his barracks to see if his suspicions could be found true. He had heard the Shinigami say Arashi Suta was also within the confines of the barracks, he must've been the Shinigami he saw with Shirogane and Yasu along with the Captain. Turning to the Shinigami without changing his facial expression he tried to delicately explain the weight of the situation.
No offense Oda-San, but I do not know where you originated from. Nonetheless. I dont think your in very much place to be asking anything of me, seeing as how your currently trespassing on Division 6's barracks. These...ladies here could very well arrest you where you are for just merely being here. I'm sure your intentions are well but your ignorance will very well be your downfall if you continue to swashbuckle about. Now be still, until we figure things out. I'm sure you can still help if we require it."
He hoped his words weren't too harsh or brash for the Shinigami but he needed him to understand the situation they were in if he were to even begin to be any help to Shusuke or the Kido Corps. He soon turned back at the barrier to study it one more, now he could see the purple reiryoku pulsating more frequently, sending off small, nervous vibrations through the immediate area. Heat encapsulated the surrounding area, and a certain weight could be felt within the atmosphere, he wondered what is taking place within it, and hoped he wouldn't be too late to stop it or step in to help. He also couldn't wait any longer for a response from the Priestess, but had no choice in the matter and was deadlocked at a crossroads of should he, or shouldn't he.
He awaited the answers from both the Shinigami and the Kido Corps members to proceed with the mission at hand.

 

[Shinigami]

It is rare to see helplessness be so perfectly defined as it is here and now. Only the strong were able to resist the effects of the cherry blossom curse. Representing their differences in strength and respective levels of power, Captain Oda and Lieutenant Yugure remained standing, while Third Seat Arashi Suta was able to resist long enough to bear witness to Shirogane's betrayal. Despite the chaos surrounding them, despite their fears and worry, there was sure to be one feeling, one underlying emotion deep down in each of their cores, pride. Pride in their own strength for standing now, even if their moral conscience prevented them from thinking it, there would be a feeling that each of them understood what it is to be strong, understood the meaning of strength.
They are wrong.

Arashi Suta, Third seat of Thirteenth division, an honorable man seeking adventure and self-growth. What an adventure he finds himself in today. The weakest of the strong, Arashi proves himself a man of conviction, but not a man of triumph. He resists the drowsy and drowning effects of the showering cherry petals, just long enough to witness Shirogane's betrayal, and suffer the effects of the artifacts spiritual pressure. His body finally gives in, as he is sent flying through the air. His body is caught by one of Tenzen’s barriers, a fortunate turn of events preventing him from falling at the feet of the now monstrous Shirogane. He lay, completely helpless, useless to the cause at hand, a victim once more in need of another rescue, of someone who possess greater strength.

Lieutenant Yugure, the disciple of the greatest assassin the Seireitei has ever seen, and barer of his legacy. Her training is without fault, her strength a testament to her will and a pride of her division. However, regardless of having the right instincts, of crafting the perfect solution to the scenario, of acting in exactly the correct way, she still failed. What is right, what is perfection, what is correct? These are terms defined only by the strong. Under the debilitating effects of the Evil Fermentation Pot, Yasu could not bring her body to action, she forced her body to move through sheer will, and yet it would not be enough. So caught up in the unfolding of events before her, she did not take note of the second Shirogane, revealed to be none other than a reflective clone. By the time she willed herself to shout Bankai, she would find herself unable to exhale. Six rods of blinding yellow light crush her from every angle, binding her body together. They press against her body like guillotines, matching the strength she exerts to break them, keeping her body in a stalemate just to stop her bones from being crushed.
With this, the target has been set, and with nowhere to go, Yugure is easy pickings. Shirogane’s Reflection fires off another spell, launching two pillars of pure blue energy from his hand. They meet their target, and yet do not pierce through. Rather than seamlessly penetrate through Yasu’s body, the beams of energy deflect off her skin, such a low level Kido incapable of puncturing the Hakuda Master’s refined body and natural defense. However, the percussion behind the blasts remains. The first bolt collides against Yasu’s body, knocking the air from her lungs, exactly as the second collides against her skull, knocking her unconscious.

Tenzen Oda, the only one to previously resolve himself, to clear his mind so that he may think clearly. This seems to pay off, as he is the only one that does. Even in the face of great evil, even suffering against the pains and torments of extremely powerful Reiatsu, and even now, head to head with a monster, he stands collected, calm. A man of inner strength, he proves himself weak to his own will. Something dark scratches from within him, an ancient urge thought quelled now resurfacing. Despite this, he acts with his priorities straight.
Quick to spring into action, he seals away the Pot as best he can while it remains dormant. Whether this ensures it stays inactive, or is simply a bandage over a gaping wound, is yet to be seen. Still, no one else in this room even prior to falling unconscious would have been able to cast a sealing spell as strong as Tenzen’s. Relying on the strength of his Kido, he fires an offensive blast of destructive purple flame. This spell in the hands of a regular Captain is enough to sear cleanly through the flesh of a lower ranked Espada. In the hands of Tenzen, it likely would do the same to even a Primera. Yet this is nothing in the face of true strength.
Deflecting the Kido, no, reflecting the Kido, the entity known as Shirogane Kuchiki accomplishes a feat he never could have as a Third Seat, as a meager Shinigami. The power of Tenzen’s Kido becomes simply another tool to be used against him by Shirogane. The Purple flames reflect off the silver surface of Shirogane’s zanpakuto, and fly back not towards the Captain, but towards the subdued and unconscious Yasu Yugure. Her body ignites immediately, her form, and even the light of the Kido that binds her, become enshrined in purple light, masked from the naked eye. The flames continue to burn and sear, not seeming to fade, she becomes a beacon of Shirogane’s might.
She is not the only victim of the demon Kuchiki’s newfound abilities. Captain Oda, a man of incredible perception and sense, finds himself unable to track the high speed movements of Shirogane. To even an expert like Tenzen, Shirogane may as well be teleporting. How could Tenzen, who is by no means a master of Hakuda or hand to hand, know to deflect an incoming assault that he can’t even see or sense? The simple answer is, he can’t. He is outpaced, out classed, and out of options. Shirogane’s hand grasps the Captain’s face, his iron grip crushing Tenzen’s skull like a bear trap. With a simple kick of his heels, Shirogane sends them both flying through wall after wall of the compound. The Captain’s body smacks and crashes through each one, unable to escape Shirogane’s clutches. Luckily for Tenzen, his months of physical conditioning has provided him with a solid defense of his own, preventing his body from being broken or damaged by the otherwise dramatic attack.

So, this is where they find themselves. A Third seat, asleep on the floor, a Lieutenant aflame from a cursed spell, a Captain hanging from clutches of a monster. Some of the Seireitei’s top Shinigami, completely helpless. Helpless to an evil far beyond their capabilities, to a power far beyond their reach.
That is…
...until...
...now.
Arashi Suta wakes with a jolt, his body in shock, his mind racing as though waking from a nightmare. However, anything his mind may have conjured then could only be described as a dream compared to the nightmare he finds himself in now. The first thing he sees is the artifact, sealed and wrapped tight, mummified by the Captain’s spell. The second thing he sees is the burning body of Lieutenant Yugure. An evil permeates throughout the air, and following this trail, Arashi would turn to see a series of holes through a series of walls, leading a great distance into the darkness of the Kuchiki Manor. Yes, truly the sight before him is horrific...and yet…
He
.
.
.
Feels
.
.
.
Great.

The purple flames burn, and burn. They continue to grow, to burn brighter and brighter, hotter and hotter, as though a meager campfire has transformed into a furnace. The yellow blades of light that hold together the Lieutenant’s body begin to form cracks. They quiver under some unseen force. Until finally the purple flames explode in one large blast. The binding Kido fragments and then shatters, thousands of little pieces of light fading from existence. Standing where the Kido and burning body once was, now is the complete form of the deadly assassin Yugure. Her body is undamaged, completely untouched by flame, lightning or energy, in fact, she appears in better physical condition than ever before. The power she feels coursing through her is unlike any she has felt before. Is this how it feels, to never tire, is this how it feels to be completely and utterly strong? The wicked nature of her devious soul manifests itself in bone across the front of her face.

Shirogane looks on upon the dangling and limp Tenzen Oda. The Captain hangs from Shirogane’s grasp, suspended only by his head, the weight of his body strains the muscles of his neck. Shirogane may think to crush it right there and then, squashing the Captain’s head like a fruit in his palm. Yet, something occurs that may make Shirogane wish to think twice. Small tendrils of white begin to form from thin air in front of Tenzen’s face. These Tendrils whirl and spiral, until they expand instantly connecting to one another. Should Shirogane not remove his hand, he would find it instantaneously severed from his limb. Either way, The Captain falls to the ground. However, rather than crash, limp, into the stone below him, the Captain lands on his feet seemingly automatically. Launching himself backwards in the air, his body moves on its own. No, its not that….his instincts, his natural reflexes have been heightened. He can observe Shirogane clearly now, can track his movements, though still with some difficulty. Regardless, the gap of power between them has changed. In fact, Tenzen has never felt strength like this, never experienced raw and and unbridled power. His body is bursting at the seams with energy, and he cant help but feel even his lowest level Kido is now twice what his strongest used to be. Yes, this is the miracle he prays for, this is the universe evening the odds.

“BANKAI! HASASAKU KUROSAWA!”

A Tsunami of black, a title wave of thick vivacious tar, rises and bubbles from the ground. Not simply confined to the room Yasu and Arashi find themselves in, the black miasma of her Bankai floods throughout the entire compound, rushing through the halls, spurting from the walls. It is as if the Manor itself were bleeding, as if its life blood gushed from a mortal wound. Soon, the entire complex would be drowned in black, filling the bottom of the barrier with three feet of tar. There would be no foothold in the entire location safe from Yugure’s Bankai. Its radius seemingly only contained by the erected barrier, it is impossible to tell just how far this enhanced Bankai may have otherwise spread.
Then with immense speed hundreds of Lotus rapidly sprout from below, piercing through the surface of black. Anyone caught standing above such spear-like flowers would find their bodies impaled by the deathly red lotus, and suspended into the air. Then, these pillars bloom, and where once there was a Kuchiki Manor, now there is a forest of massive red flowers . The interior of the barrier becomes obscured from view from the outside. The canopy of lotuses is so dense that they block any sunlight from penetrating the barrier. Leaving those trapped within its confines shrouded in darkness and shadow.
The Lieutenants true intention finally comes through, enhanced by her newfound Hollow powers. Hundreds of hands form from the black ooze. They rise with no indication, at such speed that even the enhanced vision of the newfound Vizards would not be enough to fully comprehend. In a horrific display, they flail in the air, clutching at Shirogane's clothes, pulling him downward. They writhe, their hand holds increasing, each one of their grips as strong as Shirogane’s previous grasp on Tenzen’s head. Their numbers multiply, seemingly fuelled by the contact they make with the Kuchiki. Energy spiking, speed increasing, the hands start tugging, and yanking, pulling at the Kuchiki with a fury, an aggressive strength enough to soon tear him apart. Should the Kuchiki not find a way to escape, his body would be dragged down into the ooze, to be drowned and digested by Yugure’s Zanpakuto, never to be seen again.
Though Shirogane’s power manifested instantly, he was simply the one closest to the intense energy of the artifact. The others however had been fumigated by the barrier, their bodies exposed to concentrated and fermented Hollow energy, and copious amounts of it at that. While Shirogane absorbed the brunt of the artifacts power, the others had unknowingly absorbed the same power through their bodies. Now, their bodies transform before their very eyes, now they held a power on the same plane as the Kuchiki Killer.
Now, they know strength.