[BiTPR2] Renewed Revolution: Spirit World III [Archive] - Page 5

ImpSyndrome

2014-08-27, 10:04 AM

[Soul Society]
(Koutetsu Hold) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtVQy7AIIxM)

Satoshi might not get to finish before the armored figure aims a punch straight for his jaw. If he lets it through, it's like getting walloped by a combat squad team member. This person definitely was no normal plus. With one hand, Kishi brings its axe-shovel to bear, sweeping for his legs.

"Ge' outta my way, yeh daf' prick!"

As it turns out, Satoshi only gets to the part in his ultimatum around "you and yours" before he finds knuckles heading straight for his face. His body twists to get his head out of the way, but Kishi's punch still glances him and gives him a taste of the unusual power possessed by the armor-clad insurgent. Being off-balance, the Shinigami can't avoid getting tripped up when he loses leverage over his opponent's weapon; they've clearly had significant combat training.

Turning up the Serious dial a notch, Satoshi reacts quickly, pushing himself off the ground and away from Kishi. If the shovel comes at him while he's attempting to gain distance, he'll parry it with his Zanpakuto, turning the attack away from himself as he retreats. Once he's back on his feet, he'll take a stable Kendo stance and mutter, "OK...Fine, let's skip the rhetoric. Your choice...but you don't get to ignore me."

There are two possibilities from here. If Kishi closes in to fight him, he'll be ready to dodge and strike back, testing the armor for weaknesses and openings. It's more likely, however, that they'll just neglect him and lash out at the Koutetsu noblewoman again. In that case, the rookie Shinigami will rush to her defense once more, this time throwing an attack of his own in deterrence; he'll quick-step into close-range and, using his momentum, throw a soft-strike punch that should deliver the impact through the armor if it connects...

strawberryman

2014-08-27, 01:12 PM

[Soul Society]
(Koutetsu Hold)

Kishi does in fact bring that odd shovel-axe down in an attempt to strike the man while he's down, but Satoshi gets out with nary another scratch. The armored figure jumps back a step, oddly, as Satoshi retreats, digging in a bag for a moment... before charging, tossing something at the ground in front of Satoshi.

And then Satoshi (and even Misaka) have an intense ringing in their ears and spots in their eyes as the primitive flashbang goes off... and Kishi is in the shinigami's face, swinging his shovel upwards at his head.

"Dun wanna hurt yeh, boy! Ge' outta tha way!"

...of course, Satoshi might be distracted from the fact that Misaka now has two sticks of dynamite somewhere near her feet, within a second of exploding. She will probably notice this, but she is already in the midst of casting. The insurgents who threw them have quickly dispersed, keeping the guerilla tactics going.

Well, now these guys just don't play fair.

(Deep Space Armory)

Chouko nods to Hideki's question as she turns to a computer embedded in the wall, typing out coordinates into a high-tech senkaimon program. "We ain't got the time or money to waste on fuel, so let's save half a trip. As much as I'm sure you'd love travellin' through deep space with yours truly like a road trip to nowhere, listenin' to mix tapes and hookin' up with strangers in bars on the way, we both got s*** to do." We are all pretty sure that would be Hideki's personal brand of hell.

The door slides open as Chouko pinpoints a cluster of meteors she scouted out, one of her robots (this one designated Mute) walking in with an odd device in hand. It looks an awful lot like a police speeding detector (http://www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/images/speed-gun-440.jpg), except the camera end is a bit more like a projector.

It simply hands it off to Hideki with a thumbs-up, proving true to its designation by keeping silent. Chouko looks over idly. "Oh, thanks, babe. Tell your bros to keep hard at work. I'm sure they need a pep talk. You're pretty good at those." Mute just nods after Hideki takes the device, walking out. "Aaaaand done. Just gotta activate it with one of our comms. Kinda s***ty to try and push buttons with those d**k fingers. And with that, she steps into a more... elaborate docking station. "Activation code #eR55n7X2: Takenaka in the hizzouse." And with that, mechanical arms detach from the ceiling of the station, removing her limbs and supporting her body, then starts equipping the various space suit parts, taking a few minutes overall. The suit is fairly similar to the others in their stations, but it's a bit more compact and lightweight. The gravity glove, of course, is in place, and she gives a thumbs up to Hideki as she steps out of the dock.

And then, once Hideki is suited up, out into space.

(Combat Division - Masaru's Office)

There's a knock on Masaru's door some time after Nicole has sent his letters.

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

The hollow is momentarily disoriented by losing its sight... but really, one gets used to thinking it's cute to turn somebody's shtick against them. He's slightly surprised, but nonetheless, he's gained something from this, as he throws the disembodied hand away, and deflects or sidesteps the large portion of the bala with a hand, taking stock of the situation. He's stepping back, however, trying to keep distance between the two...

Then, just before the Sin Rostro is about to fire the cero, it shoots a bala with alarming accuracy, aimed straight for the growing orb of energy. The snake heads on his back also shoot the orbs around the defender a step before, discouraging it from moving as the explosions break the ground around it.

Draken

2014-08-27, 02:12 PM

Kotetsu Hold

Sight returns to Misaka ad her attendants in turn to watch the wicks of the bombs run out and detonate under their feet. The guardsmen are sent flying in every direction, wounded and near death, while the noblewoman herself is thrown back through the doors of the mansion.

----

Deep Space Armory

More of a purgatory.

Nonetheless, Hideki finishes suiting up about as quickly as Chouko, and off they go.

5a Violista

2014-08-27, 04:57 PM

[Hueco Mundo]
Grand Library of Las Noches => Leaving Las Noches

Well. That is some rain.

It is important enough, though. The snake-lady was instructed to make a garganta far from Las Noches, so that she can be sure she's not followed. That means leaving the safe protection of the dome out into the stormy weather. It'll be dangerous and she'll have to be really agile.

She makes her way across the city towards an entrance. With all the terrible things happening out there and all the chaos happening in here, it's unlikely anyone will notice someone trying to sneak out. The Hollow needs to keep an eye on the sky, though. And burrow down to the Forest of Menos as soon as it seems safe enough to do so.

[Soul Society]
[Combat Division]

Suou nods. She takes the letters. Because there was a lot of information, she repeats them back in question form, to make sure she understood them. "So, after I deliver these letters, you want me to look for all the regulations, laws, and customs made by Central 46 and the Noble houses? Then do you just want me to deliver all the pertinent information in a report?"

After receiving that answer, she nods and leaves to do the things.

After looking over the letters and fixing the one or two places she thought would be clearer or better or more respectful, etc, with a different wording, she went on delivering the letters. The letters to the Engineer Corps and SSI are easy enough to deliver.

Then, she goes to [Internal Security], looking for Setsurou. She knows, unsurprisingly, little about him.

After that, she looks for Masaru Koutarou, not knowing exactly where she'll find him.

(*won't post into the Archives until after Setsurou and Masaru Koutarou's players have a chance to continue a scene if they want, or simply whatever.*)

Kuroimaken

2014-08-27, 06:45 PM

For ONCE, Setsurou proves reasonably easy to find.

One should check the sky for flaming hail.

KnightDisciple

2014-08-27, 07:04 PM

[Soul Society]
[Combat Division - Masaru's Office]

[Soul Society]
[Combat Division]

Suou nods. She takes the letters. Because there was a lot of information, she repeats them back in question form, to make sure she understood them. "So, after I deliver these letters, you want me to look for all the regulations, laws, and customs made by Central 46 and the Noble houses? Then do you just want me to deliver all the pertinent information in a report?"

After receiving that answer, she nods and leaves to do the things.
Masaru frowns a bit.

"Not exactly. I want your research to focus specifically and only on Soul Society's laws and rulings about non-Gotei bodies of protection and law enforcement, specifically focused on such matters within the Rukon Districts. In essence, you are ensuring that our slowly-growing efforts to help the Pluses in the areas outside the Court of Pure Souls are not in violation of laws. Again, please request aid from others when you do this. HQ Division has been informed of your task. Perhaps they can be of assistance. The Modsouls you had worked with before may also be able to lend some aid.

This is not a one-day task. I expect you to be at this for a notable period of time. It will be boring and mind-numbing and not easy. But I believe you are up to the task. And it is something I believe our Division needs done."

If she has no further questions for clarification, she will be politely dismissed and left to her tasks.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Combat Division - Masaru's Office)

There's a knock on Masaru's door some time after Nicole has sent his letters.
"By all means, come in."

The Acting Commander of Combat Division can be found sitting back in his chair, his head leaned back, eyes closes, as his bionic arm holds a half-full cup of tea close to his mouth. He's clearly taking a break of a few minutes. The rather small stack in the "To Do" box on his desk testifies to the fact he's been working hard at sorting out the mess left by the death of the Captain and inattentiveness of the Vice-Captain.

"What can I help you with?"

For a moment, Masaru does not look at his guest, though only a fool would assume such a seasoned warrior is truly vulnerable.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

After that, she looks for Masaru, not knowing exactly where she'll find him.

(*won't post into the Archives until after Setsurou and Masaru's players have a chance to continue a scene if they want, or simply whatever.*)
Acting Commander Masaru can be found in his office if Miss Suou has further questions! Though depending on how quickly she returns to the office he might have a visitor.

strawberryman

2014-08-27, 10:09 PM

[Soul Society]
(Masaru's Office)

One of Chouko's androids walks in, this one designated Waltz. ...Just how many of these has she made? He's holding a suitcase that seems to be intended for having space for a laptop, which appears to be in use. With a polite, short bow, Waltz steps up to the desk.

"Good evening, Sir. Takenaka-taichou is busy with other matters, so I am here to discuss options with regards to your letter." Oh, huh, this one is polite.

"Bro." That's more like it. Does sound forced, though.

[Soul Society > Space]

Chouko activates the senkaimon, and walks through, Hideki presumably following. After a bit of walking...

...they step from the white of the senkaimon realm into the dark of space. The meteors that Chouko planned on harvesting are nearby, and the rock that is soul society is visible, but it'll be some trip hauling the rocks.

Chouko... cries out in a yodel?

"Woo! Space! Exciting, eh, Koutetsu?"

Frozen_Feet

2014-08-28, 08:36 AM

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

The hollow is momentarily disoriented by losing its sight... but really, one gets used to thinking it's cute to turn somebody's shtick against them. He's slightly surprised, but nonetheless, he's gained something from this, as he throws the disembodied hand away, and deflects or sidesteps the large portion of the bala with a hand, taking stock of the situation. He's stepping back, however, trying to keep distance between the two...

Then, just before the Sin Rostro is about to fire the cero, it shoots a bala with alarming accuracy, aimed straight for the growing orb of energy. The snake heads on his back also shoot the orbs around the defender a step before, discouraging it from moving as the explosions break the ground around it.

The defender fires its Cero at the same moment as the challenger shoots his Bala. However, due to the latter being much faster than the former, it hits its target after the Cero has moved just three meters. The smaller explosive splits the Cero, sending the halves veering wildly to the sides. Spectators duck for cover as the halves hit nearby walls, wrecking them in fiery explosions.

In response to return fire, the defender extends its remaining hand to create another negation barrier. The challenger's Balas mostly explode against it while some bounce off to fly to the sides. While the defender is perfectly shielded, it can't mount a counter-attack, as maintaining the barrier requires standing still and it's too large to be fired around. Forced to wait for its opponent's next move, the defender uses the respite to catch its breath. The challenger is cutting into manifestation of its power somehow and it can't afford its blows and movements being weakened. So, it draws upon its reserves, its veins starting to glow red through its pallid skin. Its blackened left forearm crumbles away, leaving a cauterized stump behind. The creature's Reiatsu, previously negligible save for when it was using Cero or Bala, becomes tangible as it whips up a small whirlwind of dust. Red and blue apparitions appear near it, resembling giant snakes.

5a Violista

2014-08-28, 04:16 PM

[Soul Society]
[Combat Division - Masaru's Office]

Acting Commander Masaru can be found in his office if Miss Suou has further questions! Though depending on how quickly she returns to the office he might have a visitor.
[Soul Society]
Combat Division

"Oh. No, that's it. Thanks for the clarification," Miss Suou says. After that, she leaves to deliver the letters.

((Oops.
I meant Koutarou.))

For ONCE, Setsurou proves reasonably easy to find.

One should check the sky for flaming hail.
Suou Nicole sees the flaming hail, and (after some prompting by a Internal Security members) assumes it has to do with Setsurou.

She goes to where she supposes it to be originating from and, assuming she finds him, she says, "Hishikawa-sama? Masaru-senpai has a letter for you." She has the letter addressed to him in her hand.

strawberryman

2014-08-28, 04:37 PM

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

The defender fires its Cero at the same moment as the challenger shoots his Bala. However, due to the latter being much faster than the former, it hits its target after the Cero has moved just three meters. The smaller explosive splits the Cero, sending the halves veering wildly to the sides. Spectators duck for cover as the halves hit nearby walls, wrecking them in fiery explosions.

In response to return fire, the defender extends its remaining hand to create another negation barrier. The challenger's Balas mostly explode against it while some bounce off to fly to the sides. While the defender is perfectly shielded, it can't mount a counter-attack, as maintaining the barrier requires standing still and it's too large to be fired around. Forced to wait for its opponent's next move, the defender uses the respite to catch its breath. The challenger is cutting into manifestation of its power somehow and it can't afford its blows and movements being weakened. So, it draws upon its reserves, its veins starting to glow red through its pallid skin. Its blackened left forearm crumbles away, leaving a cauterized stump behind. The creature's Reiatsu, previously negligible save for when it was using Cero or Bala, becomes tangible as it whips up a small whirlwind of dust. Red and blue apparitions appear near it, resembling giant snakes.

The hollow challenger... disappears into sonido.

Then, hands clasp for the defender's neck from behind. Because it was a wall, and not an encapsulating barrier, he was counting on it being forward-facing, and seemed to be its limitation. With the hollow's grab, another of its snake heads dives into the ground, biting at his ankle and digging into the ground to keep him from turning.

Assuming the maneuver works, the Sin Rostro will once again feel the draining nature of the serpentine hollow's touch.

Kuroimaken

2014-08-28, 05:09 PM

Suou Nicole sees the flaming hail, and (after some prompting by a Internal Security members) assumes it has to do with Setsurou.

She goes to where she supposes it to be originating from and, assuming she finds him, she says, "Hishikawa-sama? Masaru-senpai has a letter for you." She has the letter addressed to him in her hand.

It's not literal flaming hail! It's a metaphor for how hard Setsurou usually is to find!

Oh well.

"A letter from the Pack chief? Not everyday I get one of those addressed to me.

Usually someone from Logistics plays courier for these. Getting punished or something?"

5a Violista

2014-08-28, 06:05 PM

[Soul Society]
Internal Security

Oh. Flaming hail would be so cool, though. I was actually hoping there was flaming hail. I've always wanted to see that.

"It's an important letter," Miss Suou replies. She figures the last question is clearly a joke, so she doesn't respond to it (regardless of how true it is). "We would have sent it through Logistics, but I figured it would have taken longer that way."

She hands over the letter. "Permission to leave, sir?" She doesn't leave until he says so, in case he has another question or something of the like.

Draken

2014-08-28, 06:12 PM

[Spaaaaace]

"Cold, dark and desolate, to be honest."

Hideki has his arms crossed.

"Well then, lets convert these."

Hideki activates the reishi converter, which creates a steadily expanding bubble of transmutating energy around the meteor patch.

Kuroimaken

2014-08-28, 06:20 PM

strawberryman

2014-08-28, 06:25 PM

[Space]

Chouko blows a raspberry into the communicator, since that is how they are communicating, after all the suits are airtight. With a few motions, she's activated the gravity glove, and turned it up to its maximum setting. "All right, baby, let's score some sweet sweet space slag." With a pulse of energy, she moves the meteors being converted together, carefully directing them, crashing every so often, but going smoothly... until an icy chunk breaks off and goes floating for soul society with a momentary flux in the energy, actually repulsing it at a considerable speed. Chouko stops, frowning and adjusting a few levels.

"Whoops. Well, it's just a runt anyway, what's the worst that can happen?" After fixing the problem, she goes back to corralling the meteors. The crowd has grown quite a bit by the time she calls out to Hideki next. "All right, pal, this is the most I'm gettin' in one trip, we should start pullin' these puppies back. Feel like I should be wearin' a different hat." With that, she activates a small recon drone, and then the forward thruster on her suit, slowly and carefully pulling the horde of meteors towards Soul Society.

Yeah, nothing wrong could go here.

---

Back in Soul Society, some people might see something flare up high above the ground.

And then it started hailing flaming semi-frozen meteor chunks.

Nothing overly harmful. Just enough to fit a punchline.

5a Violista

2014-08-28, 10:37 PM

[Soul Society]
Internal Security

I imagine she'll see the falling flaming ice stuff soon.

I should really make my sentences more clear. I meant that she didn't have a question or anything else to add. But, since he mentioned it, a question suddenly bubbles to the surface of her mind. One related to something she was thinking about earlier, but had tucked away into her mind.

"Actually, Hishikawa-sama, I was wondering," Suou Nicole says, "What is your opinion of the Pack? What's your opinion about how it operates and its rules, and how they're different from the other divisions?"

Kuroimaken

2014-08-29, 12:08 AM

"To be perfectly frank, my opinion of the Pack doesn't matter much. It's not my home and I'm not in any position to change it even if I wanted to. I respect your choice on how to do your work, like I suspect you folks respect how I choose to do mine. Masaru-san has a good head on his shoulders, and he's got a lotta pressure on him right now. He's going to need a good assistant to keep track of everything pretty soon.

Heck, I somehow made Captain and I'll be damned if I can finish half my daily paperwork without popping in a bottle of aspirin and one of sake. I have no idea how he does it.

Anyways, it would be too weird if any two Divisions were the same. I can't imagine the fine folks of Recon sitting on a lab all day any more than I can imagine the folks of the SSI doing weapon drills. A variety of skills and an ability to adapt to different situations, miss. That's what makes the Gotei strong."

KnightDisciple

2014-08-29, 12:47 AM

[Soul Society]
[Combat Division - Masaru's Office]

[Soul Society]
(Masaru's Office)

One of Chouko's androids walks in, this one designated Waltz. ...Just how many of these has she made? He's holding a suitcase that seems to be intended for having space for a laptop, which appears to be in use. With a polite, short bow, Waltz steps up to the desk.

"Good evening, Sir. Takenaka-taichou is busy with other matters, so I am here to discuss options with regards to your letter." Oh, huh, this one is polite.

"Bro." That's more like it. Does sound forced, though.
Masaru can't help but smile at the forced "bro". Definitely one of Chouko's.

"I'm sure she's busy off doing science."

The potential double entendre was definitely not intended. But often such things are not intended...

He spends a couple of moments examining the suitcase and laptop, getting a feel for the weight and so forth.

"Let's see...excellent. I think this will work quite well. The case is nice too. Please pass my thanks on to Chouko."

He places his new toy tool to one side and gives the android his full attention.

"That was one item, at any rate. What information do you have regarding the other items I raised in my communication?"

Frozen_Feet

2014-08-29, 11:30 AM

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

The challenger proves to be correct, the barrier is indeed a square wall facing just one direction. But as a result, the defender also knows to be wary of an attack coming from the sides or from behind - plus, it literally has eyes on the back of its head. Hence, as the challenger's hands reach for it, it ducks and his hands meet just air, the barrier vanishing at the same instant. The defender spins around and aims a low kick at the challenger's feet, trying to sweep him... but is foiled by the snake going for its ankle. With its sweeping (right) leg caught, the defender is left in a rather awkward position. Supporting itself with its left leg and intact hand, it lifts its broken arm to shield its face while the snakes on its shoulders fire point-blank Balas at the stomach of the challenger.

As the challenger drains the defender's power, he might notice an odd phenomenom. The Reiatsu and physical strenght of the defender are staying on an even level despite his efforts, with more power being released from its body to compensate for the draining effect. Yet, it's apparently not without its drawbacks. As the red glow in the defender's veins intensifies, its body starts crumbling away at an accelerated rate. The dark grey patches on its skin turn black, the blackened parts start to crack and the cracked parts flake off, exposing bloodied muscle underneath.

strawberryman

2014-08-29, 11:48 AM

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

The balas cause some flinching, but as the Sin Rostro's skin unravels, the challenger simply latches its snake hand into its exposed muscle, staring directly at the defender as the rest of the snakes go for his arms, trying to twist them away so he can't do anything bothersome like aim a cero his way.

"Stop fighting. It will only burn you away faster. Accept your demise."

[Soul Society]
(Masaru's Office)

Waltz has a seat. "Also in the suitcase are compiled notes for several of your requests. On the more extreme end of the spectrum of effective communication, there is implanting chips that respond to brain impulses and voice commands, but it is experimental and invasive. There are several more simple solutions, such as the communications node you suggested, but of course, we can make something much less... 'bulky' as you put it, but with durability in mind. Koutetsu-fukutaichou may be called in to consult, due to his tenure in recon. And I am sure a representative from the division would also be interested in hearing of better communication."

He pauses, allowing Masaru to look through the radio designs. "From there, nonlethal supplements are easy. There's an effective design for a taser gauntlet in the second folder. It is more efficient if the user has a degree of spiritual power, but naturally, it can be given its own power source, but they will need recharging."

Another pause. "As polite as I can put it, creating a communications infrastructure is not a currently feasible prospect. There are higher priorities, like terraforming and adapting and repairing our systems for the... sudden shift."

He doesn't pause before moving onto the next point. "And the laptop provided also comes with your choice of a more practical desk-mounted paper scanner, or an automated device." He pulls out a small orb with a camera lens that looks like a floating eye, and activates it. The orb sparks to life, then floats around Masaru's desk, lighting up every so often as it scans documents strewn across the surface. It doesn't stop there, either. Shelves, coffee tables, the floor, anywhere there is paper, it will go.

"Those 'droids' actively scan any incoming paper, they have arms for opening letters and will send the scans wirelessly to your laptop in several copies, including an email, which Takenaka-taichou has graciously set up for you. Naturally, however, you are free to decline for the less ambulatory option." With a click of a device in its hand, the scanbot floats back to Waltz and powers down.

"So, what do you have to say? Brother?"

(Medlog HQ)
(Because I forgot the name.)

Kobayashi Momoka has been, in fact, focusing on her recovery. However, at the start of a new day, she has asked to be pushed outside for fresh air. She looks up with a smile, calmly enjoying one of the division's many gardens. However, a curious twitch plays at her mouth as she sees the flare in the atmosphere, and out of instinct, she pulls out from the open air to a more protected place.

And it seems her instinct was rewarded, as chunks of rock fall into the ponds and hit the grass, smoldering. She chuckles at this.

"Curious."

Frozen_Feet

2014-08-29, 12:04 PM

As the challenger grapples the defender again, more of the snake apparitions form around it, slithering through the air and trying to find their way into his body through the eyeholes of his mask, his mouth, or any wounds caused by the battle. They are not attacks, rather they are slivers of the defender's Reiryoku, summoned forth by the challengers attempts to drain it.

Meanwhile, the defender sees no point in wasting its breath to reply. Instead, it redoubles its efforts to fight against him. The lack of structure in his arms and snakeheads turns out to be a hindrance this time, as they're too flexible to completely restrain the defender. The defender resumes punching, kicking and biting the challenger, even as its increased bodyheat causes its remaining clothes to combust and the bones in its arms start to fractrure from the strain.

strawberryman

2014-08-29, 12:50 PM

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

While the challenger flinches at the blows... he doesn't let go, continuing the absorption process until the defender passes out, dies, or burns away, steadily increasing pressure as the snakes constrict and coil.

Frozen_Feet

2014-08-29, 12:59 PM

The defender keeps fighting back. The snakes that make up its hair bite the challenger's appendages, their venom hideously painful if their fangs pierce their skin. Likewise, its main mouth bites hard around the challenger's right arm, its teeth sharp as diamond and tough as steel, backed by jaws with the strenght of a hydraulic press. But, while it might injure its opponent, its own body is well past its point of return. As the battle continues, its whole body combusts, burning up in bright blue flames and turning to ash.

By that point, the air is teeming with the snake apparitions, as they whirl around the challenger and get absorbed by his body.

KnightDisciple

2014-08-29, 01:37 PM

[Soul Society]
[Combat Division - Masaru's Office]
Masaru gave Waltz his full attention, only looking to other items when presented with example drawings or the like.

[Soul Society]
(Masaru's Office)

Waltz has a seat. "Also in the suitcase are compiled notes for several of your requests. On the more extreme end of the spectrum of effective communication, there is implanting chips that respond to brain impulses and voice commands, but it is experimental and invasive. There are several more simple solutions, such as the communications node you suggested, but of course, we can make something much less... 'bulky' as you put it, but with durability in mind. Koutetsu-fukutaichou may be called in to consult, due to his tenure in recon. And I am sure a representative from the division would also be interested in hearing of better communication."

He pauses, allowing Masaru to look through the radio designs. "From there, nonlethal supplements are easy. There's an effective design for a taser gauntlet in the second folder. It is more efficient if the user has a degree of spiritual power, but naturally, it can be given its own power source, but they will need recharging."

Another pause. "As polite as I can put it, creating a communications infrastructure is not a currently feasible prospect. There are higher priorities, like terraforming and adapting and repairing our systems for the... sudden shift."

He doesn't pause before moving onto the next point. "And the laptop provided also comes with your choice of a more practical desk-mounted paper scanner, or an automated device." He pulls out a small orb with a camera lens that looks like a floating eye, and activates it. The orb sparks to life, then floats around Masaru's desk, lighting up every so often as it scans documents strewn across the surface. It doesn't stop there, either. Shelves, coffee tables, the floor, anywhere there is paper, it will go.

"Those 'droids' actively scan any incoming paper, they have arms for opening letters and will send the scans wirelessly to your laptop in several copies, including an email, which Takenaka-taichou has graciously set up for you. Naturally, however, you are free to decline for the less ambulatory option." With a click of a device in its hand, the scanbot floats back to Waltz and powers down.

"So, what do you have to say? Brother?"
Masaru finished looking over the notes for radios before answering.

"Hm. We'll table the chip implant idea for the moment, at least for implementation in our Division. I would say my main three goals are durability, reliability, and efficiency. I want an option that can stand up to being carried on an active soldier's person, that can reliably contact a "node" or HQ station in range, and that has a long operating life. I am willing to sacrifice versatility of "extra features", and to a degree, aesthetics. I"m sure we can discuss the nitty-gritty details in a future meeting.

The point about including Recon in this discussion is very right, and I feel badly that I did not think of it myself. Please see about arranging an appointment between one of their officers, myself, and either you, one of your siblings, Chouko, or another representative of Engineer Corps. You can set up the appointment with my assistant, Junior Officer Suou Nicole. She is out on a few errands at the moment.
Actually, I would place a request for her to be given a similar work setup to myself, pending her own approval of the idea.

I am actually intrigued by the independent scanner droid option. Perhaps we can arrange for a trial for a couple of weeks? If that solution proves incompatible we can move back to the option of a non-ambulatory desk scanner.

Hm. Taser gauntlet...yes, that sounds like a strong possibility, assuming we can get it approved by the lawmakers for long-term use. And yes, we'd need an option for those not innately granted powers. Also, options for simple, fairly light, but still durable body armor for those same officers of the peace.

As for the feasibility of infrastructure in general, that is fine. It was more the case of a desire to "get it on the table" sooner rather than later, more than a specific desire to get it done now, now now. Repairs, adaptation, and terraforming take precedence. That said, hopefully raising the idea now means that future developments, post-terraforming, may perhaps carry a greater consciousness of the need for more advanced infrastructure of all kinds.

I believe that covers all matters necessary at this time. Unless you have further inquiries of your own, Brother Waltz?"

There's a bit of a twinkle in the warrior's eyes as he speaks that title for the android in front of him.

strawberryman

2014-08-29, 02:24 PM

[Soul Society]
(Masaru's Office)

Waltz shakes his head. He can't really smile at Masaru's reference to him, but he gives an awkward thumbs-up.

"No, I believe that will do. The options are there, I am the messenger. Takenaka-taichou has delegated some duties to us, but we are still... young, in a manner of speaking." He stands, and bows, placing the scanbot and the remote control unit on Masaru's desk.

"Do have a pleasant... ballin' day. Bro." With that, disregarding further inquiry, Waltz makes his way back to engineering.

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

The hollow's scales have, of yet, proven quite resistant to damage and combustion. However, everything has its limits. He snarls in pain, the front of his body charred black as he looks around for signs of trickery. While it might seem like he pays no heed to the snakelike manifestations.... he idly charges a cero in his clawed palm, discharging it upwards if nothing else happens, and expending the excess energy he's been absorbing. After all, this was a trick he had for a while, and hollows with poisonous reiatsu weren't unheard of.

Frozen_Feet

2014-08-29, 02:35 PM

[Hueco Mundo; Tercera District of Las Noches]

For a moment, the ethereal snakes cling to challenger's body and he can feel a strange sensation. It's like there's someone else inside his head, looking out through his eyes. "Hmmm. It seems you have bested us. We congratulate you. For a moment, we thought you didn't have it in you." Briefly, he has a strange vision overlapping with the present reality, as if watching Earth from high orbit. Then, his cero fires and the pressure disperses the snakes, sending them floating to random directions. The defender's Reiatsu fades away and so does the voice inside his head. Only thing left of the defender is a pile of ash on the ground.

strawberryman

2014-08-29, 02:52 PM

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

The hollow challenger exhales irritably as he heals from the battle, looking upward to Turiel. "It is over. Where is the Tercera?"

5a Violista

2014-08-29, 04:32 PM

[Soul Society]
Internal Security

"Okay." Miss Suou smiles. "Thank you, sir." That was pretty much the answer she was wanting to hear. Honestly, her opinion of the Soul Society and especially of the Pack has been steadily increasing day by day (with rare exceptions) since she joined.

She gives a salute, and turns around to leave.

Before delivering the final letter and then going to commandeer others to help her in the Archives, she watches the flaming icy meteors falling.

Kuroimaken

2014-08-29, 04:38 PM

Setsurou, by contrast, is frowning. It's not adjutant Suou's fault.

He hurries out of his chair and out in the open.

"Well expletive me."

He actually said that.

And in a moment, he's headed towards Medlog HQ.

KnightDisciple

2014-08-29, 05:04 PM

[Las Noches]
[Tercera District]

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

The hollow challenger exhales irritably as he heals from the battle, looking upward to Turiel. "It is over. Where is the Tercera?"
Turiel, his hands clasped behind his back, lowers from the height where he had been observing the fight, one eyebrow raised. He glances at the pile of ash, then at the Challenger. His voice comes out in a low but cheerful rumble.

"Standing in front of me. The previous Tercera has been dead for months. He was heavily injured in an attack upon Las Noches, before being finished off by his Fraccion, who then turned on each other in a frenzy. In the intervening time, none have proven themselves worth and willing to claim the spot.

You have done both. Though I do so wish you hadn't made quite the mess you did. Still, I suppose it's your mess to clean up!"

The man, who looks like he is carved from obsidian, gives a brief belly laugh at his own joke. Then, his teeth gleaming in a smile that's equal parts cheerful welcome and message from a stronger predator, he offers the Challenger his hand to shake.

"I am Turiel Vulkenssen, though some like to call me the Blacksmith. Welcome to the Espada, Brother. I don't believe you gave your name before?"

The Challenger may or may not have heard that name or title before. If he had, they're the sort of thing mostly just rumbled and whispered about in idle chatter, such that Hollows ever have such a thing.

strawberryman

2014-08-29, 06:53 PM

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xb4R0-Vr-c4)

"I limited the damage for just that reason." The tone is deadpan, so either he is that confident or it was in fact a joke.

The hollow looks impassively on Turiel's grin. Although it's kind of hard to do anything but that, given he has no mouth on his mask to register true expressions. At his question, he turns very slightly so he can face both Turiel and the bystanders.

"I am Quidel Alamilla. The second God of the sun, Quetzalcoatl. The Aztecs worshiped me. I do not expect the same devotion, but I expect respect. And if you give me the former, as I take this role I will not hesitate to reward it. If you do not give me the latter... you will find the powers of the Sun to be very unforgiving." Well. So he wasn't without charisma. The crowd can take that proclamation however they will. With that, he turns to Turiel again.

"...your city offers ascension from hollow form. I should like to make use of this... after my form settles." Turiel himself, likely being a Vasto Lorde before his own ascencion, may now recognize the state of evolution Quidel is in. It's... messy, unrefined, but there are definite hallmarks of that level of hollow. But evolution is usually rather gradual, where here, the hollow's form seems to be shifting on close examination, settling and molding into a more appropriate form. As well, his reiatsu feels... high adjuchas at best, but there is also a sense of massive flux.

Curious indeed.

[Soul Society]
(Med & Log HQ)

Momoka sits in her wheelchair calmly until the flaming hail ceases, rolling out to pick up one of the fragments with a serene, interested smile. Like a child observing a shiny rock or shell.

Kuroimaken

2014-08-29, 07:01 PM

It's not too long before a Shinigami Momoka has never seen before approaches with a look of concern on his face in the gardens of the hospital.

She knows exactly who this is, though.

"Oh, good. You're alright. Aren't you?"

He actually has a name tag with the name "Joutaro" in it.

strawberryman

2014-08-29, 07:59 PM

[Soul Society]
(Phoenix Temple?)

Momoka sighs as the silence is broken (or perhaps for other reasons), pocketing the stone.

"...yes, I'm quite all right... Joutaro." She manages a teasing smile. "Believe it or not, I have lived through much worse things than a few falling rocks. What's the real reason you're here?"

Kuroimaken

2014-08-29, 08:07 PM

"What do you mean? This is exactly the reason I'm here. The second I saw flaming rocks from the sky I thought you'd want to get one. And if one came at you while you were picking it up you'd have no way to dodge. Need I remind you you're still in a wheelchair?"

strawberryman

2014-08-29, 08:26 PM

KnightDisciple

2014-08-29, 08:47 PM

[Soul Society]
[Combat Division - Masaru's Office]

[Soul Society]
(Masaru's Office)

Waltz shakes his head. He can't really smile at Masaru's reference to him, but he gives an awkward thumbs-up.

"No, I believe that will do. The options are there, I am the messenger. Takenaka-taichou has delegated some duties to us, but we are still... young, in a manner of speaking." He stands, and bows, placing the scanbot and the remote control unit on Masaru's desk.

"Do have a pleasant... ballin' day. Bro." With that, disregarding further inquiry, Waltz makes his way back to engineering.
Masaru nods.

"I believe that will suffice, then. And good luck on your journey of growth, you and your siblings. I hope you have a good day as well, Brother Waltz."

Masaru will spend a few minutes after Waltz leaves familiarizing himself with his new equipment. He is most certainly not wasting time playing with it like a bunch of grown-up-man-child toys. That would be silly.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Las Noches]
[Tercera District]

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xb4R0-Vr-c4)

"I limited the damage for just that reason." The tone is deadpan, so either he is that confident or it was in fact a joke.

The hollow looks impassively on Turiel's grin. Although it's kind of hard to do anything but that, given he has no mouth on his mask to register true expressions. At his question, he turns very slightly so he can face both Turiel and the bystanders.

"I am Quidel Alamilla. The second God of the sun, Quetzalcoatl. The Aztecs worshiped me. I do not expect the same devotion, but I expect respect. And if you give me the former, as I take this role I will not hesitate to reward it. If you do not give me the latter... you will find the powers of the Sun to be very unforgiving." Well. So he wasn't without charisma. The crowd can take that proclamation however they will. With that, he turns to Turiel again.

"...your city offers ascension from hollow form. I should like to make use of this... after my form settles." Turiel himself, likely being a Vasto Lorde before his own ascencion, may now recognize the state of evolution Quidel is in. It's... messy, unrefined, but there are definite hallmarks of that level of hollow. But evolution is usually rather gradual, where here, the hollow's form seems to be shifting on close examination, settling and molding into a more appropriate form. As well, his reiatsu feels... high adjuchas at best, but there is also a sense of massive flux.
Turiel gives a sage node at the comment about the damage. He stays quiet, eyebrow raised, as Quidel introduces himself.

"Yes, we have centers to assist in the process of transitioning to Arrancar form. They are open for all, and while there normally is a waiting list, I feel it is not improper to say we can make an exception in your case."

Nobody wants a hungry Vasto Lorde running around. Nobody.

"It does look like you could use someplace to sit down and relax for a bit, though. Tell you what; I'm sure this District's attendants can take care of the first stages of repair-"

Pretty clearly not a request or suggestion to some of the nearby Arrancar forces.

"So why don't you come back to my District. We can sit back by the fire and relax a bit while you get comfortable in your own skin."

Kuroimaken

2014-08-29, 09:15 PM

[Soul Society]
(Phoenix Temple)

Momoka looks at 'Joutaro' flatly, no smile this time.

"...really." There's an air of disappointment in her tone. "I assure you, I would like to leave this place as soon as I possibly can, with no offense to the wonderful souls seeing to my infirmity. I am still as perceptive as I've ever been for my handicaps-" Referring of course to her damaged eyes, although her hearing was always quite good. "-so, I would not have come out until it was safe." The intensity is not really angry so much as a light scolding.

"...now truly, are you going to keep treating me like a child, or is there something else you are here to talk about?"

"Does there have to be a serious subject in the air each time I come to visit? Or can I not simply come to see you?" He stared back into her eyes, facing her 'scolding' with a little bit of his usual cheek. "I figured, if I give you something to be a little annoyed at first thing, it'll make your smile that much bigger when I get one out of you."

strawberryman

2014-08-29, 10:08 PM

Kuroimaken

2014-08-30, 12:58 AM

[Soul Society]
(Phoenix Temple)

Momoka sighs... and smiles very slightly. Which could possibly be counted as a win. "...they are talking as if I might be here for weeks, if not months. That I should leave with glasses and some forms of medication. That I might not regain sensation in my hands." The bandages are off, at least, but she rubs her fingers together with sadness in her eyes.

"...I'm sure you'll excuse me for not finding a reminder of my state comforting, when I was out of my room to get away from those talks." Oh. Well, now 'Joutaro' might feel a little bad.

Feel bad? NEVER! He won't be defeated by pessimism!

"You HAVE been through an awful lot. It's the way of nature that your body heals slowly."

He leans forward, and places the tip of his index finger against her forehead.

"But your spirit's been hurt longer. It's long overdue for some healing as well, if you'll let it. I'm a clumsy physician, I'll admit. Yet I promised to make you happy, and I KEEP my promises."

He kneels before Momoka, looking her in the eye. Holding her insensate hands. "The Hishikawas have access to a whole brand of medicine that's out of Medlog's reach - perk of being chemists on the side. If they can't fix you, I'll pick up Kaidou. If THAT can't fix you, I'll pick up Mortal World medicine. If THAT can't fix you, then I'll invade the Spirit King's realm and find someone who can.

I'm ready to spend the rest of my life finding ways to make you better if that's what it takes. I can't run away from you any more than your heart can outrace mine."

strawberryman

2014-08-30, 11:57 AM

Kuroimaken

2014-08-30, 01:24 PM

[Soul Society]
(Phoenix Temple)

Momoka sighs again, squeezing Joutaro's hands. "...if you want to make me happy, you can do one thing."

"Give me space. When I am ready to talk... you will know. I am no fool, while I will do what is necessary to protect our home I will take no unnecessary risks. I owe that much to those I care about."

"Hmmm. That's an answer I can live with.

I'll still bring you books every now and then, though. You must be bored to tears.

I've got a letter that needs replying to, so I suppose I'll be on my way. Want me to bring something next time I drop by?"

KnightDisciple

2014-08-30, 10:01 PM

[Las Noches]
[Tercera District->Segunda District]

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

Quidel thinks for a few moments. "...very well. I accept your invitation." Well, not much more to say than that. Turiel now has a proto-Vasto Lorde following him. This must be how Jehoel feels, leading around Shinigami that might in any other situation try to kill him. It's not really about being worried he might succeed, more about the terrible inconvenience if it did happen. Soooo much cleanup.
Turiel nodded.

"Good, good. I'd offer you tea when we get there, but, ah, well."

No mouth and all that.

"Got some great books, though. And hot-spring-fed baths, too."

The soot and blood, you know.

"Anyways, just follow me."

He sets off at a pace that is a "slow and steady jog" for himself, and perhaps a "brisk jog" for the proto-Vasto Lorde, but is definitely faster than many lesser Hollows could keep up. They transitioned from the still-chaotic Tercera District into a much more orderly sector of the Inner City.

Here there was signs of construction everywhere. As they moved further in, Quidel would see various buildings that were clearly large forging and smithing centers, metal refineries, stonemasonry centers, and other such industrial-focused efforts.
Other areas, done up like relaxation and enjoyment sectors, seem to have small streams and rivers and even ponds of molten lava. Not many Hollows frequent these spots, but a few hardy souls seem to. Because someone's gonna be That Guy, anyways.
Still other areas are half-covered by steam; large hot springs and saunas, some open to the air.
Also a giant restaurant that cooks food over fast-moving streams of lava. Because lava.

Finally, they come to a square tower that rises above the rest of the Second District, though not by a large margin. It is actually many-tiered, with various square sections of rooftop popping up in a not-quite-spiral to the uppermost section of the building.
One of the lower rooftops has a lava waterfall gracefully flowing down the side of the building.
Another couple had open-air forges and blacksmith work areas, manned by several diligent Arrancar.

Turiel led Quidel to the sturdy-looking doors on the topmost rooftop, which were opened by a pair of guards in body-concealing outfits of flowing cloth, though both seemed of similar (large) build. They walked down some stairs into a circular central room, with doors going in several directions.

"Right then! Sauna there, washroom there, spare clothes there, sleeping area there, meditation room there, library there, etc, etc, etc.

I'll be in the library if you wish to speak. If you need a few or couple dozen hours of alone time, that's fine. There are indicator flags on the doors, one of the attendants can show you how to use them, that will tell us to leave you alone unless a fight is detected. Any questions?"

strawberryman

2014-08-30, 11:02 PM

[Soul Society]
(Phoenix Temple)

Momoka thinks for a moment. "...I think I should like a copy of local newspapers in the city of Ikari and Tokyo, if you can manage them. Otherwise, I'd enjoy a ink well, brush, and calligraphy notebook."

Odd on the first bit, but Momoka has always enjoyed calligraphy.

[Las Noches]
(Segunda District)

Quidel is silent, absorbing the mannerisms of Turiel and his explanation. And then, he folds his clawed hand over his chest and bows slightly. "That will do." No thank you, but at least he bowed. After Turiel departs and he hears the explanation of the flags, Quidel first washes his tarnished scales, the prismatic surface showing cleaner than even before his battle. Then, he enters the sauna, taking up a meditative stance and closing his many eyes, focusing on nothing but the effects of his evolution.

In a few hours, his snake-headed hand has been molded into another clawed appendage. Several more, the snake-like tentacles have receded into his back, leaving only the glossy yellow wings. All the while as these changes occur, his reiatsu builds.

Kuroimaken

2014-08-30, 11:18 PM

Not that odd. Considering what landed her in the hospital to begin with, she's probably right to be concerned about news regarding the stage of the latest large-scale operation on the mortal world.

"Shouldn't be hard. I've got a few agents in Ikari to monitor the fallout of Von Geister's shenanigans, and they need access to local news anyways. I could probably get you a copy.

Worried about mortal awareness of our last mission?"

strawberryman

2014-08-30, 11:29 PM

[Soul Society]
(Phoenix Temple)

"Something approximating that, yes." As teasingly obtuse as ever. With that, she takes out... sunblock? Well, geez, MedLog is just giving her all kinds of good habits. It's a rather high grade, given her complexion. Dabbing a thin layer on her face and the exposed parts of her arms, she leans back with a serene smile.

"...now, I would rather enjoy sitting in the sun quietly." There's a faint pause. "...you don't need to leave just yet." There are probably proper chairs nearby, if Joutaro would rather sit on a even level with her. Momoka simply basks in silence, her eyes closed.

Kuroimaken

2014-08-31, 01:53 AM

Well, why not. He has earned a break, right?

Especially because the letter he'll have to write is going to send him down a harsh road. Best to enjoy it while he can.

"Very well. I won't spoil your basking by talking of all things."

Still. She's letting him closer now.

He'll count that as a win.

Kuroimaken

2014-09-05, 11:08 PM

To Captain Hishikawa Setsurou,

I am sure your duties keep you busy, including the ones brought on by my own Division's recent efforts to better the lot of the people in the Rukon Districts. I will attempt brevity for that sake, then.

First, from the efforts thus far, do you have any insights or suggestions on ways to, in general, improve our work?

Second, does your Division have any sort of basic educational materials that could be distributed to those aspiring to be officers of the peace in the Districts? This would of course be on a provisional basis, pending investigation of the relevant laws and rulings of Soul Society related to the matter.

Third, are there still major spots of internal friction between the Combat Division and other Divisions? I feel as though your forces might have a better finger on the pulse of things. Our internal morale has improved, but considering what happened in short spans of time, external relations seem like they might still be...rickety.

Signed,
Acting Combat Division Commander Hiraku Masaru

To Office of Acting Commander Ishinomori Koutarou,

One of my officers, one Suou Nicole, is going to be performing some research in the Archives regarding legal matters. She can give more detail, but it would be much appreciated if it was ensured she had access to all relevant sections of the Archives.

Further, to keep matters "above board", so to speak, I will state I have sent a few other contacts out to other Divisions. The intent of this is to help improve the functionality of our recent efforts to improve the situation, both in the narrow scope of peace-keeping and in the broad, general scope, in the Rukon Districts. If any of these communications become a matter of concern, or some other part of these efforts do, please feel free to contact my office at your earliest convenience so we can discuss the matter quickly and civilly.

I am sure contact between our Divisions will continue for a good amount of time.

Signed,
Acting Combat Division Commander Hiraku Masaru[/SPOILER]

The first answer to come is penned by Koutarou.

To Acting Captain Hirako Masaru, Combat Division,

RE: Research et. al

Your officer is not only allowed but encouraged to peruse the archives in such regards at any time. The law of Soul Society is an open subject to all Shinigami and adequately-authorized individuals, regardless of birth, and as such is under no restriction of classification, being that restricting access to that particular bit of information benefits no one. I only ask that should she require case examples that she cites which examples she's had access to, and of course, sealed records will remain so barring further examination - though I expect there be no need for them.

I likewise do not expect to be issues concerning your correspondence with other Divisions, not in the spirit in which they are intended and not in light of the subject matter. In the unlikely even that they should rouse trouble of any kind, you will only be second in notification to yours truly. I've left specific instructions in that regard after recent events - I do not appreciate gossip.

I encourage your outreach to the Divisions of Gotei, and hope it bears good fruit. Unity is our strength.

Sincerely,
Ishinomori Koutarou
Acting Commander General, First Division

Setsurou's reply arrives a few hours afterwards.

To Acting Captain Hirako Masaru, Combat Division,

RE: Questions

In the spirit of cooperation and taking into account the likeness of rank between both of us officers, I will respectfully abandon formality in favor of a more approachable tone. Much of what I will speak deals with technical matters and the use of such terms would serve no practical use.

Concerning basic educational materials:

We do not have them. As a rule of thumb, those seeking a career in Gotei law enforcement are directly apprenticed under an officer with experience on the subject. Outside of being encouraged to study the law of Soul Society, much of our law enforcement training is of a practical nature. Elaborating such materials won't be a problem, but for the moment you would find you cannot use them anyway - more on that further along.

Concerning the perception of the Combat Division by the others:

Funny you should ask, because your officer asked me the same thing. I will tell you more or less the same I told her: by the very differing nature of each Division's duty, each Division has a different method of work and differing priorities, but more or less the same underlying philosophy, drilled into us during our time in the Academy. It would be strange to find a member of Engineering working strictly as a spy, or for a Medicine and Logistics officer to be doing reconaissance in a battlefield full of wounded. Specialization is a necessity in any military structure, and it breeds a certain approach to a problem depending on what your job normally is - some, in fact, pursue certain careers with the exact intent of avoiding something or another they dislike doing. While those differences in approach can create a few misunderstandings here and there, I do not expect it to drive a large wedge between the Divisions in the long term. After all, we rely on each other's work to fulfill our duties. Especially given recent events, I do not expect any such misgivings to last, and they're fairly small in number to begin with.

With all that said, leadership of an entire Division requires a certain level of tact and diplomacy that not all of us are equipped for, and leadership friction can often be more destructive than Division-wide relationships. (Just between you and me, one of the reasons I'm out in the field so much is so I only have to deal with the more prominent issues - the kind that you can only have a Captain answer for.) If you feel you need help in this regard, all you need to do is ask. (I remind you once again I mean this with all due respect.)

Concerning the affairs of the Rukon:

I'm afraid at this point we've all but reached the limit of what we CAN do with our resources. I trust you understand what differentiates, in the mortal world, the military police from the civilian police. We face a more complex situation here: in spite of a necessity for a symbiotic relationship, the laws of Soul Society are engineered towards the protection of the nobles from a peasant uprising, a situation that actually toppled monarchies and other forms of autocratic governments towards the end of the 18th century elsewhere, and for which our forefathers prepared more thoroughly than their mortal equivalents - by ensuring that all spiritually capable souls were encouraged to join or drafted into the Gotei. One of our unspoken duties is to preserve the balance of power in favor of the Noble Houses, which would otherwise be indifferent to the Gotei's much larger and demanding work of maintaining the balance of the cycle of reincarnation outside of their own preservation.

And that means that the second stage of our joint operation - that is, to mount and maintain a police force in Rukon that is completely autonomous from Gotei support - is exceedingly unlikely to be sanctioned, much less supported by the Noble Houses, unless they should all be convinced that is to their benefit.

Fortunately, our forefathers were either far more benevolent than the current stock, or incredibly more dense.

Strictly speaking, the major Laws of Soul Society provide us with a possible interpretation that requires active participation from the Noble Houses to quash the criminal element, lest they contribute to a crime against themselves - and all non-contributing houses would find themselves guilty of treason by omission. Gotei lacks a Division with that explicit purpose; in spite of its title, Internal Security is meant to uncover and stop internal threats, and a peasant uprising counts as external. It is likewise not the Combat Division's job to play constable. That we are doing so right now, in spite of a larger intent behind it, relies strictly upon our provisionary authority to do so - and once the current major threats are dealt with, our effort with Operation Suikoden will no doubt become a point of contention among certain Noble Houses, in spite of the fact that the Gotei has several hundreds of times the firepower necessary to quash such rebellions before they can even whimper. The current situation, forgive me for saying, might actually help open their eyes towards this need. But we will still need to argue that need before Central 46 eventually, and we need to choose our timing carefully. I suggest we discuss such actions personally in the future.

Don't be alarmed if this letter appears to catch on fire. I have equipped it with a Kidou to rewrite part of its information so as to keep busybodies from blabbing on to other nobles about the exact circumstances we're dealing with. Thankfully, communications on this level can't be censored, but better safe than sorry.

Respectfully,
Hishikawa Setsurou
Captain of the Internal Security Division.

strawberryman

2014-09-08, 03:15 PM

[Soul Society]
(Phoenix Temple)

Momoka sits in silence for some time, saying nothing, and breathing slowly. It'd be easy to mistake her as being asleep, but Joutaro likely knows better. She is at rest, sure, but Momoka would still not let up her guard.

(SPACE > Soul Society)

Rocketing along slowly, Chouko maintains a careful hold on the cluster of meteors as she backs up towards the seireitei, her rear-view camera keeping her apprised of her path at all times. By the time they are within a few kilometers of the Seireitei, approaching from underneath, she finally speaks up.

"All right, Koutetsu. Time to **** around a bit." She activates the Seireitei's intercom system, and moments later, her voice blares through the speakers.

"Awright-awright-awwwwright! This is DJ Takenaka reportin' from deep space! Me an' MC Koutetsu penetrated deep and fast into the big-ol'-black, and it's time for the meteor shot! Hang tight, folks, 'cause we're about to rock like an Olympic swimmer, and these hips just don't quit!"

...Okay then. After that message, Chouko smirks and swings one of the meteors at the underside of the Seireitei, crashing into it. The tremors are fierce, but the reishi-converted meteorite easily bonds with the rest of the spiritual rock. Chouko throws a second, then another... All in all, it shouldn't be overly destructive, and it lasts but a few minutes. But today is definitely not a good day for fine china.

(Phoenix Temple)

Momoka hardly pays any mind to the... eccentric message, however her eyes do open slightly as her wheelchair is bumped back in the tremors.

"...wonderful."

Draken

2014-09-08, 03:31 PM

[Soul Society]

Hideki's voice takes over the communication device shortly afterwards, in a much more subdued tone.

"Captain Takenaka's... Colorful message aside, prepare for minor tremors. Repeated impacts are expected to hit the underside of the continental plate for the next few minutes."

Kuroimaken

2014-09-08, 03:42 PM

strawberryman

2014-09-09, 12:18 PM

[Soul Society]
(SPACE)

Chouko continues throwing the meteors like softballs until the cluster is depleted, clapping her hands together and looking at her 'masterpiece'. "...well, it'll take a bunch of trips, but it's a start, eh, Koutetsu? We can get your reishi engines started, and bam. Got our own third rock."

(Phoenix Temple)

Momoka mostly needs help just stabilizing her wheelchair, but her hands do shoot to the wheels despite Joutaro's action. Luckily the tremors aren't enough to deal any lasting damage to the Seireitei's buildings. As they subside, Momoka sighs, regaining her composure.

And then one of her attendants approaches. A rather cute, mousy girl with short brown hair. "...um. Sorry, Kobayashi-san, but we need to round everyone up, after that, and make sure no one's hurt. Besides, it's almost time for your nebulizer." She bows to Joutaro nervously.

"May I?"

Momoka lets out a chuckle. "...are you always going to be this apprehensive, Saito? You should really ask Matsumoto to dinner." She flinches a bit at this, but Joutaro can tell it hit home.

Kuroimaken

2014-09-09, 02:27 PM

"I'll take her inside, miss. Why don't you see to the other patients?" "Joutaro" replies. His smile is all kinds of warm and comforting and trustworthy.

Whether she'll take it at face value probably depends on how much of a stickler for the rules she really is.

"That is, if you don't me pushing the chair, Momoka-san."

strawberryman

2014-09-10, 04:01 PM

[Soul Society]
(Phoenix Temple)

Saito fidgets nervously as Joutaro makes the request, but gulps and takes an assertive stance. "...I'm sorry, sir, but we have very strict protocols. You can come along, and stay for a while, but we've had patients leave when when left alone."

Momoka chuckles. "...you heard her, Joutaro. It seems our escape plan has been seen through."

Kuroimaken

2014-09-10, 05:01 PM

Frozen_Feet

2014-09-19, 12:30 PM

[Hueco Mundo; Streets of Las Noches]

While the meteor rain keeps drumming the dome covering the city, eight black-clad forms roam through its nooks and crannies, looking for the Sin Rostro. They've been going at it for a while and thus far failed to find any. It looks like most of them have either scampered off or gotten destroyed in the restlessness plaguing the city.

They stop their search and turn to look up in unison when they notice snake-like apparition floating through the air. They follow them intently as they gather around the last one in their formation, one carrying two Zanpakuto instead of one.

"Well?", the first in the formation asks.

"It's odd. Our opponent was hardly physically overpowering", the last one responds, "but he had some ability to force us to burn through our reserves faster than normal."

Two others glance at each other. "He was pretty strong, though. Almost comparable to the White Devil. It is somewhat surprising someone of that level was still running loose and unaccounted for."

The first one nods. "The current situation makes emergence of such creatures more likely, but it was still improbable. Indeed, with things as they stand, it may be he's the last one of his kind to arrive to this city from the outside. If Las Noches continues to operate on its current manner..."

"... the formation of such creatures will become practically impossible", the last one adds as the apparitions around it flow into its body and turn into new serpents on its mane.

"So, what now?", one more buds to the discussion. "It's starting to look like we're not going find a replacement from here. We think we should extend our search to the desert."

The leader shrugs. "Feel free to do that. We are free to do whatever we want from now on."

"We only existed to serve Mikael-sama. With him absent, we have no reason to go on. We will hence return to hibernation."

The one with two Zanpakutos thinks. "We will go and search for the one who got lost along with Heaven. Help is appreciated, though not required."

"We'll go to the desert, then", the first one states, and the one who introduced the idea moves next to them. "Do give us the excess Zanpakuto. We'll be needing it." The last one complies, handing the weapon to the first. Then, the eight figures scatter - two head for the nearest gate, one for Valentina's district to dig a hole there and go to sleep, another through a Kumon into the Void between worlds, and the remaining four where ever their whim tells them to. Soon, the street is empty again.

strawberryman

2014-09-20, 12:51 AM

"And I only brought one gas mask today so I can't even use my smoke bombs!"
"Joutarou" adds in a very disheartened mock tone.

"I suppose we have no choice but to let these cruel, cruel jailors do as they would. Oh, woe is us."

He resumes his smile soon enough.

"It's just as well, my break is almost over anyway. I'll see what I can do about those newspapers."

He leans forward and gives Momoka a careful hug. She does notice he slipped a small package under her blanket though.

"Woe indeed." Momoka's tone is flat, but her smile betrays her amusement. She doesn't react to the package, just keeping her composure as Joutaro hugs her. "I look forward to the news."

Then, Saito carts her away. She doesn't inspect the package until she's back in her room and alone, concealing it the entire time.

Kuroimaken

2014-09-20, 01:23 AM

It's a box of candies. And a note.

"Just a little something to make your stay a bit less bitter. Don't worry, I checked. These are good for you. Don't eat 'em all at once."

KnightDisciple

2014-09-21, 09:23 AM

The first answer to come is penned by Koutarou.

To Acting Captain Hirako Masaru, Combat Division,

RE: Research et. al

Your officer is not only allowed but encouraged to peruse the archives in such regards at any time. The law of Soul Society is an open subject to all Shinigami and adequately-authorized individuals, regardless of birth, and as such is under no restriction of classification, being that restricting access to that particular bit of information benefits no one. I only ask that should she require case examples that she cites which examples she's had access to, and of course, sealed records will remain so barring further examination - though I expect there be no need for them.

I likewise do not expect to be issues concerning your correspondence with other Divisions, not in the spirit in which they are intended and not in light of the subject matter. In the unlikely even that they should rouse trouble of any kind, you will only be second in notification to yours truly. I've left specific instructions in that regard after recent events - I do not appreciate gossip.

I encourage your outreach to the Divisions of Gotei, and hope it bears good fruit. Unity is our strength.

Sincerely,
Ishinomori Koutarou
Acting Commander General, First Division
Masaru's reply comes within perhaps an hour of Koutarou's.
To Acting Commander Ishinomori Koutarou,

I will make sure she follows all necessary and proper procedures in her research in accordance with our laws. She has been told to directly contact your Division for assistance in the matter as deemed necessary.

I must also express my thanks for your measures aimed at reducing gossip. I feel such measures will only be helpful in fostering a more cooperative environment overall.

I share your hopes for unity, strength, and good fruit.

Signed,
Acting Combat Division Commander Hiraku Masaru

Setsurou's reply arrives a few hours afterwards.

To Captain Hishikawa Setsurou,

I appreciate your insight into the nature of Divisional differences, and can only hope such an enlightened view is one shared by most or all officers and soldiers in the Gotei, if not now then in the near future.

I will admit to lacking in some of the more...formal training...some Captains may have in diplomatic matters, and would appreciate any assistance you can give, large or small.

I do understand the difference between military and civilian police. I had hoped my original plans made it clear my goal to have our forces acting as peace-keepers only in the short term, and instead give power to the non-Gotei-member souls in the long term to keep the peace themselves. I view this as a benefit for both them and us. It frees our resources up to deal with other matters, and gives them a sense of community and control, as well as most likely eventually a more substantive peace-keeping force.

Your insight into the best approach to ensure a lasting success in this area is most appreciated, and I would like to express my desire to meet with you in the near future to discuss these matters in person. I think this is a case where planning, strategy, and preparation will be key; to use a Mortal turn of phrase, all of our ducks must be in a row before we take this to the Central 46.

Thank you for the warning about the Kido, it might have caught me by surprise otherwise.

Signed,
Acting Combat Division Commander Hiraku Masaru

Kuroimaken

2014-09-21, 12:19 PM

There is no further reply from the Acting Commander's desk except for a short note stating that it was received and reviewed. Hardly something worth a communiqué of its own.

Setsurou's reply is worth a short read, however.

To Acting Captain Hirako Masaru, Combat Division,

RE: RE: Questions

My view on the subject is based on a study of military strategy and structure, as well as a bit of logistics. It's simple math: training one soldier in everything takes a lot more time than training ten in specific tasks each. This is never fully explained to the soldiers themselves, however, so sometimes misunderstandings arise from a biased point of view. Solving those misunderstandings can be facilitated with cross-disciplinary training, which also breeds comraderie between divisions. None of us is in such a position we cannot be taught something, and none of us are in a position we cannot teach something else. While most officers are aware of this to a degree, not all of them are willing to admit it or face it, because it's very rare for one Division to need to do another's job, in spite of how each of us affects each other.

Thankfully, despite our current situation of wartime promotions, none of the current Captains is actually stupid, so I don't think it's bound to become an issue. I could probably teach Koutetsu Hideki some ways and tricks to burying secrets deeper than one can dig them up, while he would probably spend a lifetime teaching me the science behind the products of his Division, and you could no doubt school us all in advanced fencing techniques. We all know each other's strengths, and are smart enough to play to them accordingly.

I must correct you on a slight misconception. Diplomatic training is not a skill that is taught formally to Captains and other high-ranking officers. Though it is, to a degree, a part of formal education among nobles from infancy, it is something they are made to learn as a part of functioning in society, much like the concept of right and wrong. You may be under the impression you missed a course on the subject because many of our high-ranked officers either are nobles or, like our acting Commander, have decided to study the subject due to constant interaction with them. It is also not uncommon for those who groom other officers to be their replacements to teach said skillset to their protegés. It is a failing of our system, unfortunately, to value nobility high enough that no one ever considers to provide for someone in your case - a non-noble ascended into the ranks without a knowledgeable officer to pass the baton properly, no offense meant. Diplomacy is a tedious, soul-crushing artform in spite of possessing fascinating highlights. which I would nonetheless be delighted to pass on to you if you'd be so inclined.

In regards to the meeting, all I require is an available timeslot in which to discuss these matters. Mark it at your convenience and I shall accommodate.

Sincerely,
Hishikawa Setsurou
Captain of the Internal Security Division

strawberryman

2014-09-25, 02:19 PM

[Soul Society]
(Deep Space Armory)

Another senkai gate opens in the high-tech equipment room... and through it steps Chouko. Laying back, in a few minutes her space suit has been unequipped and replaced with her limbs.

"Nothin' like a little deep space softball to get the kiddies some exercise." She looks to Koutetsu as he enters. "So, you build your reishi engines, I make a few gravity gloves for the orchestra, and we finish polishing this rock?"

(Phoenix Temple)

Momoka chuckles and smiles, putting the candies aside for now.

So we're at that stage, still...

[Las Noches]
(Segunda's Palace - Sauna) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eh6gduuwxpw)

Quidel eventually opens his eyes. All six of them, now that his mutation/evolution has run its course. He looks down to his hands, flexing the clawed digits experimentally. Then, he stands, and walks out of the stuffy room, looking for Turiel.

Draken

2014-09-28, 01:12 AM

Soul Society
Deep Space Armory

Hideki takes off his suit considerably more quickly than Chouko. Just needs to open a hatch really.

"The first one should be ready by the weekend, along with a mineshaft to Hueco Mundo."

strawberryman

2014-09-28, 02:55 PM

[Soul Society]
(Deep Space Armory)

Chouko steps away from the dock, giving a thumbs up to Hideki. "Sounds like a plan, Koutetsu." She then walks out, and heads straight for her lab, for SCIENCE.

Or rather, ENGINEERING. With a dash of SCIENCE.

KnightDisciple

2014-09-28, 06:02 PM

[Las Noches, Hueco Mundo]
[Segunda's Palace, Study]

[Las Noches]
(Segunda's Palace - Sauna) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eh6gduuwxpw)

Quidel eventually opens his eyes. All six of them, now that his mutation/evolution has run its course. He looks down to his hands, flexing the clawed digits experimentally. Then, he stands, and walks out of the stuffy room, looking for Turiel.

Turiel is seated in a comfortable chair in the study, reading some thick book or another, delicately sipping at a small china teacup. Pinky out and everything. After a moment he sets the cup down, places a marker in the book before closing it, and stands, turning around to Quidel with a smile.

"Aha! Quidel, nice to see you up and about. Seems that your time in there was well-spent and agreed with your, ah, constitution. How are you feeling, my friend?"

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Seireitei, Soul Society]
[Masaru's Office, Combat Division Complex]

There is no further reply from the Acting Commander's desk except for a short note stating that it was received and reviewed. Hardly something worth a communiqué of its own.

Setsurou's reply is worth a short read, however.
To Acting Captain Hirako Masaru, Combat Division,

RE: RE: Questions

My view on the subject is based on a study of military strategy and structure, as well as a bit of logistics. It's simple math: training one soldier in everything takes a lot more time than training ten in specific tasks each. This is never fully explained to the soldiers themselves, however, so sometimes misunderstandings arise from a biased point of view. Solving those misunderstandings can be facilitated with cross-disciplinary training, which also breeds comraderie between divisions. None of us is in such a position we cannot be taught something, and none of us are in a position we cannot teach something else. While most officers are aware of this to a degree, not all of them are willing to admit it or face it, because it's very rare for one Division to need to do another's job, in spite of how each of us affects each other.

Thankfully, despite our current situation of wartime promotions, none of the current Captains is actually stupid, so I don't think it's bound to become an issue. I could probably teach Koutetsu Hideki some ways and tricks to burying secrets deeper than one can dig them up, while he would probably spend a lifetime teaching me the science behind the products of his Division, and you could no doubt school us all in advanced fencing techniques. We all know each other's strengths, and are smart enough to play to them accordingly.

I must correct you on a slight misconception. Diplomatic training is not a skill that is taught formally to Captains and other high-ranking officers. Though it is, to a degree, a part of formal education among nobles from infancy, it is something they are made to learn as a part of functioning in society, much like the concept of right and wrong. You may be under the impression you missed a course on the subject because many of our high-ranked officers either are nobles or, like our acting Commander, have decided to study the subject due to constant interaction with them. It is also not uncommon for those who groom other officers to be their replacements to teach said skillset to their protegés. It is a failing of our system, unfortunately, to value nobility high enough that no one ever considers to provide for someone in your case - a non-noble ascended into the ranks without a knowledgeable officer to pass the baton properly, no offense meant. Diplomacy is a tedious, soul-crushing artform in spite of possessing fascinating highlights. which I would nonetheless be delighted to pass on to you if you'd be so inclined.

In regards to the meeting, all I require is an available timeslot in which to discuss these matters. Mark it at your convenience and I shall accommodate.

Sincerely,
Hishikawa Setsurou
Captain of the Internal Security Division
Masaru takes some time to sit back and think over what Setsurou had sent him. Finally, he pens his own reply.

To Captain Hishikawa Setsurou,

Again, I thank you for the time and effort to help expand my insight and education in matters both general and specific.

You are correct about increased efficiency regarding training, though my own personal caveat would be that, with the greatly-increased lifespans we Shinigami experience, and our much-reduced needs for things like sleep and food if we do not engage in heavy exertion, it would seem that, in the long-term, it would be beneficial to encourage at least some cross-training. I believe your suggestion of group-scale cross-disciplinary training is an excellent way to address that, and I think you are right that it would build both morale and camaraderie. If nothing else, knowing what our fellow soldiers are capable of in the field could be the difference between life and death.

The fact that the sort of diplomacy necessary to navigate acting as a Captain (or even a Vice-Captain) in the Gotei isn't formally or semi-formally taught is an oversight I am more than willing to both point out, and own up to my own shortcomings on.
With that said, some of the oversight likely exists due to the past culture of my Division. With the past emphasis on combat strength above all else, we allowed anything like "diplomacy" to fall to the wayside, focusing only on battle and our desire for it. While I generally respect my immediate predecessor, his lack of literacy and general poor attitude meant that this was only exacerbated.

In light of some recent conversation with Officer Hideki I believe I will ask that you assist me in learning how to better navigate this particular art form.

As for a meeting I should be available today in about two hours, for at least a couple of hours, or over several blocks of time tomorrow.

Sincerely,
Hiraku Masaru
Acting Captain of the Combat Division.

Kuroimaken

2014-09-28, 06:30 PM

[Seireitei, Soul Society]
[Masaru's Office, Combat Division Complex]

Masaru takes some time to sit back and think over what Setsurou had sent him. Finally, he pens his own reply.

To Captain Hishikawa Setsurou,

Again, I thank you for the time and effort to help expand my insight and education in matters both general and specific.

You are correct about increased efficiency regarding training, though my own personal caveat would be that, with the greatly-increased lifespans we Shinigami experience, and our much-reduced needs for things like sleep and food if we do not engage in heavy exertion, it would seem that, in the long-term, it would be beneficial to encourage at least some cross-training. I believe your suggestion of group-scale cross-disciplinary training is an excellent way to address that, and I think you are right that it would build both morale and camaraderie. If nothing else, knowing what our fellow soldiers are capable of in the field could be the difference between life and death.

The fact that the sort of diplomacy necessary to navigate acting as a Captain (or even a Vice-Captain) in the Gotei isn't formally or semi-formally taught is an oversight I am more than willing to both point out, and own up to my own shortcomings on.
With that said, some of the oversight likely exists due to the past culture of my Division. With the past emphasis on combat strength above all else, we allowed anything like "diplomacy" to fall to the wayside, focusing only on battle and our desire for it. While I generally respect my immediate predecessor, his lack of literacy and general poor attitude meant that this was only exacerbated.

In light of some recent conversation with Officer Hideki I believe I will ask that you assist me in learning how to better navigate this particular art form.

As for a meeting I should be available today in about two hours, for at least a couple of hours, or over several blocks of time tomorrow.

Sincerely,
Hiraku Masaru
Acting Captain of the Combat Division.

Setsurou's response comes later that evening.

To Acting Captain Hiraku Masaru, Combat Division

You're quite welcome. I had hoped you would be receptive to my observations. (Though in the future, do let me know if I seem a tad pedantic. I sometimes presume too much or too little about my fellow officers' levels of knowledge on various fields.) We should take the time to discuss such subjects in more detail in person, though I sense we will have ample opportunity for it.

It's worth a quick note that lack of skill at diplomacy is not something I've seen exclusively at the Captaincy of the Combat Division, though I will preclude naming offenders in the interest of avoiding gossip. Don't be too hard on yourself or your Division's culture - both the late Kenpachi and Kiba-san happened to be very, very good at their jobs. A certain level of tactlessness is forgiven and even expected of those who excel to a greater or lesser degree. You are no exception, but your performance review is undergoing quite the trial by fire. Both your predecessors could be in your shoes right now and not much better for the wear.

We should meet tomorrow then, around X PM to continue this conversation in person.

Consider it your first lesson to identify exactly what manner of diplomatic actions I've taken in the course of this communiqué.

Respectfully,
Hishikawa Setsurou
Captain of the Internal Security Division

strawberryman

2014-09-28, 11:15 PM

[Las Noches, Hueco Mundo]
[Segunda's Palace, Study]

Turiel is seated in a comfortable chair in the study, reading some thick book or another, delicately sipping at a small china teacup. Pinky out and everything. After a moment he sets the cup down, places a marker in the book before closing it, and stands, turning around to Quidel with a smile.

"Aha! Quidel, nice to see you up and about. Seems that your time in there was well-spent and agreed with your, ah, constitution. How are you feeling, my friend?"

Quidel looks to Turiel unblinkingly, observing everything around him. The book in his hand, the books on his shelves... he even makes use of his still enhanced senses to smell the contents of the tea.

"...Complete. Though perhaps not quite. I am ready. We should move before the hunger sets in."

Draken

2014-09-29, 01:16 AM

Soul Society
Rukongai - Kotetsu Household

A few silent seconds pass after Misaka Kotetsu was flung through the doors of her house, preventing her from delivering her dreadful spell a second time.

Perhaps it would have been best to let her finish that cast. This is a though that will surely cross the minds of any who witness a green bolt erupt from inside the house and become a whirl of smoldering green clouds laced with bolts of lightning and rimmed by brazen idols.

A dreadful vision for sure, but not as terrible as when the conjured storm cloud begins raining vitriol and fire on the grounds of the household and adjacent streets, and lightning bolts crack down towards the tallest and most metallic structures, such as armored soldiers.

strawberryman

2014-09-29, 02:49 AM

[Soul Society]
(Rukongai - Koutetsu Holding)

Presumably, Satoshi has the good sense to dart into a protective area as the cloud forms. Kishi is not so lucky, even if they did the same, because the heavy armor poses quite a big target. With a crack, Kishi is left smoking, rolling quickly into the hall and collapsing shouting a raspy command to their compatriots.

"RETREAT!"

It doesn't take much for some of the hidden figures to run in the wake of the burning rain. But some of the assailants give pause before fleeing. Their leader was going nowhere, that's for sure. But living to fight another day was more important...

Kuroimaken

2014-09-29, 09:14 AM

"I'm afraid that's no longer an option.

Units 1 and 2, I need a blanket. Big as you can make.

Unit 3, close the perimeter.

Peacekeeping force, anyone with training in protective Bakudou huddle up and begin casting immediately."

Soon enough a number of shadows start sprinting towards various points around the center of Misaka Koutetsu's dreadful spell.Their efforts are centered on minimizing the collateral damage to the buildings and anyone whom might be left behind. Whether they'll be much good remains to be seen - the spell is certainly a dreadful one.

The guerrillas will find their exits are systematically cut off by reinforcements.

Meanwhile, Setsurou stares at a no doubt weakened Kishi.

"Now then. That was a lot of noise over apparently nothing. You have a lot of explaining to do."

strawberryman

2014-09-29, 11:01 AM

[Soul Society]
(Koutetsu Hold)

The assailants don't go down without a fight. Some of them use flashbangs, or even use the last of their dynamite, running at full speed, hiding in buildings, and generally using every advantage they can to assure an escape.

A snarl and cough arise as Kishi looks up to Setsurou with hate. Surprisingly, long black hair flows out of the armor, and a feminine form in a tank top and loose slacks are what remain, the remnants of the makeshift armor clattering to her side. Her skin is filthy and pale, and her face reveals a soul not of japanese descent. Her piercing hazel eyes observe Setsurou as she responds in kind. Her appearance appears as someone in her mid 20s.

<...nuffin'? Pull yer head outta yer arse.>, she spits in english. <Yer pertectin' liars, cons, and murderers. An' if yeh dun see tha', yer jus' another blind idjit.>

Kuroimaken

2014-09-29, 11:54 AM

They are still very much outmatched, but their last resorts should more than suffice to force the Onmitsukidou on their tails to really work for their keep.

Their capture may not be a foregone conclusion. Still, it doesn't look good for the guerrillas.

Internal Security is infamous for making other people disappear. It stands to reason they have to do a lot of chasing every now and then. This could prove a balanced match between their determination and the bloodhounds of the Onmitsukidou.

Setsurou looks impassively at Kishi. Somehow the reveal of her gender doesn't come as a surprise. Nor does her choice of language. Kishi is, after all, a word for cavalry - but it also applies to a different class of warrior from Europe. Namely, knights.

The attempt to cover herself in makeshift armor when Shinigami are trained to break through Hollow carapaces on a regular basis was just another hint.

<"I'm sure your peaceful efforts to that effect went completely ignored."> He speaks in impeccable English with just a hint of a British accent. <"I know my stock well. You have still endangered the lives of innocents, and have attempted murder of a noblewoman. Their own sins notwithstanding, you have broken the law. And now you've been caught. If you truly believe in the righteousness of your cause, then your trial will be ample opportunity to divulge the truth.">

strawberryman

2014-09-29, 01:51 PM

[Soul Society]
(Koutetsu Hold)

The guerillas put up an admirable fight, perhaps, but at the end of the day, a plus is a plus. Out of the 16 Kishi brought along, 2 perished in the initial assault. A test of the defenses, nothing more. Upon their true assault, 3 more died in Misaka's second assault of kido, leaving charred, melted wrecks. Another 2 died in her last spell. Of the 9 fleeing the scene, 7 were captured, 2 too wounded to give up a healthy chase. The others relied on the chaos of the spell containment and their diversionary tactics.

((Hope this sounds okay, Kuroi, don't want to offset your division being good at their jobs.))

Kishi growls as Setsurou closes in. <"Glally, shinigami. Innit tha type te take this layin' abou'."> When he's within spitting distance... she suddenly hops up, aiming to grab onto Setsurou's torso with her burned but muscular limbs, stabbing into his back with a shard of her armor, biting into his neck, and kneeing his groin.

Well. She certainly has some fight in her. Maybe Setsurou should have used a bakudou, but ultimately this woman is lower seated in strength.

Draken

2014-09-29, 01:57 PM

Soul Society
Koutetsu Household

There is an eye in the storm. Likely where Misaka herself is, a hole in the clouds encircled by more of the brass constructs. The Onmitsukidou agents can use that to guide themselves to her.

Made all the easier when the eye starts moving back to the outside of the building.

The storm does not relent when she appears again, fan broken and sparking lightning, dress ripped, hair disheveled, a trickle of blood on the side of her head.

The moment she has view again, a deafening peal of thunder fills the grounds, following a flash of white-gold green.

"... Oh, it is Captain Ishikawa."

Kuroimaken

2014-09-29, 03:35 PM

((Ir's actually okay if a couple of them escape; Setsurou would have added instructions to that effect. :smallwink:))

Kishi's rather sudden assault isn't repelled in any way, form or fashion. He barely even bends forward when she hits the groin.

<"Such unladylike tactics. I've seen one-legged drunkards fight for their lives with more grace.

Oh well. All lessons in good time.">

At this point, however, this is hardly what Setsurou would call 'putting up a fight'. He does press a hand against her jaw, however, and moves to push her face away.

He makes it look easy. And it is, when he's actually pressing two distinct pressure points on either side of her jaw. One is designed to weaken her bite, as well as some of her upper torso muscles. The other is used to numb the pain so she has a harder time understanding what he's doing.

"Koutetsu-dono. It will actually be easier to contain collateral damage if you dispel this kidou of yours. If you'd be so kind?"

strawberryman

2014-09-29, 03:43 PM

[Soul Society]
(Koutetsu Hold)

The metallic shard clatters to the ground as Setsurou's pressure makes it harder for her to move her shoulders, and the arm holding the pin slacks, leaving only her legs, which she redoubles to keep hold of the Captain... just long enough to lean back and give him a good headbutt towards his mouth.

At which she falls back to the ground, dazed but still growling, but with Koutetsu now in glaring range, she changes the target of her ire.

Draken

2014-09-29, 03:56 PM

Soul Society
Koutetsu Household

Misaka tries to hide her mouth behind the remnants of her fan.

"Can't. The tempest has to run its course naturally."

Well, one of these lines sounds true.

When Kishi turns her glare to Misaka, she looks down just as balefully as she gets.

"But I can still control the lightning bolts."

A sample bolt scorches the ground next to Kishi.

Kuroimaken

2014-09-29, 04:40 PM

Once again, Setsurou's hardly fazed by her resistance. There's blood on his chin, but it's not his.

"Such destructive power with nary a Hanki to contain it? I find it difficult to believe." After all, most Kidou have a counterspell. A simple, practical necessity for Bakudou, though admittedly, Hadou would probably warrant less study.

"In any case, I ask that you refrain from further exercise of your power if it can be helped. I need her able to talk."

At which point he reaches to grasps Kishi's face by her temples, with two more pressure points squeezed for good measure. These briefly diminish blood flow to certain areas of the brain. It has the intent of knocking her out, though not before he turns her to face him.

"It's impolite to stare. Go to sleep."

He lets go of her temples and presses his thumb against her forehead.

It is possible for her to resist the precision strikes, given her greater physical resilience, but Setsurou hopes she won't. Because then he'd have to actually hurt her, and he hates hurting women.

strawberryman

2014-09-29, 05:48 PM

[Soul Society]
(Koutetsu Hold)

Kishi doesn't so much as flinch at Misaka's intimidation attempt. <Yeh? An wot about all tha souls yeh burnt ta make yer daemon magic, bitch?> In one last act of defiance before she falls unconscious, she spits in Setsurou's face. She might even manage to hit him!

Kuroimaken

2014-09-29, 06:15 PM

She does, for all the good that'll do.

And then he unceremoniously hoists the rebellious little unconscious bee-yotch over his shoulder. (Huh. Stronger than he looks...)

"Koutetsu-dono. I'm sure we'll have lots of things to talk about regarding this incident. Hopefully under better auspices and circunstances."

Draken

2014-09-29, 06:24 PM

KnightDisciple

2014-09-30, 12:40 AM

[Las Noches, Hueco Mundo]
[Segunda's Palace, Study]

Quidel looks to Turiel unblinkingly, observing everything around him. The book in his hand, the books on his shelves... he even makes use of his still enhanced senses to smell the contents of the tea.

"...Complete. Though perhaps not quite. I am ready. We should move before the hunger sets in."
Turiel nods.

"I know what you mean. Mostly, anyways. Trust me, this way is better. Much, much better. Let's go."

He leads them to the rooftop again, nodding to the set of guards standing at the doors before the two of them are racing through the sky above the City for a couple of minutes. It is, after all, a big city.

"Once I figured out you'd be taking more than 5 minutes, I called ahead. There's a room and team on stand-by to get you started on the process. After that, it's really up to you..."

As promised, when they arrived at the complex dedicated to creating Artificial Arrancar, there was a room over to one side that was clean and ready to use right away. Turiel ushered Quidel in without further comment, stepping back to allow the team present to begin assisting the newly-ascended Vasto Lorde in this next step of evolution.

strawberryman

2014-09-30, 06:34 PM

[Hueco Mundo - Las Noches]
(Conversion Suites)

((Skimming ftw!))

Quidel follows silently, only occasionally looking down upon the city as they pass over it. And then, they enter the suite. The attending conversion "technician" quickly goes through the explanation with as much detail as possible, but it's hard to tell whether Quidel actually has any interest, as he is silent until it comes to how long he wants to be put under. He turns to Turiel after some thought.

"...Segunda. I express my gratitude. However, I must ask of you another favor. I would like the old palace razed. As well as any uninhabited buildings in the Distrito Tercera... it is a slum, unworthy of my greatness. I will have it built anew, a corner of this city worthy of a God of the Sun." He's not exactly lying. In the previous Tercera's death throes, administration had fallen lax, and thus crime and illicit behavior shot up. Many buildings were unoccupied, and run down. Somewhat shameful, really.

Nonetheless, with a nod of... something approaching respect to Turiel, he turns to the attendant. "I will give three days." And with that, laying on the conversion table, Quidel Alamilla is coated in the white bandages inherent to the process, lasting darkness overtaking him for once in a long while.

Kuroimaken

2014-09-30, 07:00 PM

Soul Society
[Rukongai]

Misaka withholds comment on Kishi's words. But does respond to Setsurou.

"Certainly. Captain Hishikawa."

Her attendants rejoin her, the storm has done them no good, exposing the brass structure hidden beneath their vat-grown skin and musculature.

[Somewhat later. Internal Security Interrogation Room]

Kishi should awaken to a minor, fleeting headache as well as the sensation of cuffs on her hands and feet. She would also notice she has a little bit more clothes on than she remembers.

Setsurou is here in this room. And for whatever reason, he's wearing a tophat.

strawberryman

2014-09-30, 07:32 PM

[Soul Society]
(Internal Security - Interrogation)

<"My name... is Yuki. What... is your name?"> A pale, kindly girl with black hair and green eyes smiles at... what was her name, again? She couldn't remember. She'd wandered for so long...

They were in a large (for the outer Rukon) room of weathered brick, probably added by the home owner. Many cots littered the dirt floor, an attempt to fit as many as possible. Maybe a bit crowded, but at least there was a roof. "Yuki" sits on her knees in a cot adjacent, wearing the filthy ruins of what might have once been a quite beautiful blue kimono. Around 16 in appearance, she was an elder. It's obvious english was something she was still picking up.

What was her name...?

<"Gwynned."> She coughs in response. <"Jus' call me Gwyn, tho'.">

...Yuki fights off a snicker, provoking irritation. <"...oi, somefin' funny?">

<"...I'm... very sorry. You... just talk funny."> Yuki seems sincere about the apology, at least. <"I didn't... mean anything. All that... matters is... you have a home now.">

<"...we'll see 'bou tha', Yuki.">

Kishi jolts awake... then eases her nerves, taking a breath as she lowers her head, then raises it, looking around, taking in every aspect of the room. When she's taken everything in, she finally looks back to Setsurou, snarling, but not speaking.

Well, really, did he expect her to get less prickly?

Kuroimaken

2014-09-30, 08:11 PM

<"You were asleep longer than I expected."> His voice bears no signs of irritation or anything of the like.

<"Quite a rap sheet you've got. Not a very interesting one though. Reeks of despair. Weakness.">

His eyes were surprisingly sharp. There was a different quality to them. On the whole, his posture, his tone, everything but his clothes and actual physical appearance seemed completely different from when they met.

There was no one else in this room. If she could break the cuffs and overpower him, she could escape. Her comrades would probably be in here too.

That is, if she still had any fight in her.

strawberryman

2014-09-30, 08:45 PM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Interrogation)

Kishi continues giving Setsurou a hate-stare, not even taking a moment to observe her clothing. <"Wot kin yeh tell me 'bou me, then, shinnigami?">

On this 'rap sheet' were several similar explosive incidents since she became active, about 45 years ago. Her message was one of reform and revolution against the Noble caste. The armor she wore was actually built from plates used in mining, to protect tunnels from kido-based mining explosives. As such, it bore a resistive effect against most hados below grade 30. Her muscular figure and general... unrefined nature with this fact would point heavily towards her being a sekkisekki miner at one point. But of course, finding her actual name would entail digging through a lot of personnel files, which might still take a while.

What is clear is that she definitely has reiatsu. A real shame, she definitely had the potential to be a seated officer. A lower one, but seated.

Kuroimaken

2014-09-30, 09:18 PM

From power alone, maybe. But it took something more to be a good Shinigami.

<"It's cute, you know. How you believe you might actually change the world with enough bombs. As analogies go, not a bad one. One moment it is, the next, it's not. Like so many specks of dust in the wind.">

His gaze was really the most unnerving thing. He didn't leer, but it felt as if he saw her nude; just like a doctor or a butcher are desensitized to nudity and meat, it was as if he saw her as part of his work, and yet didn't hold her to the standards she'd expect him to on a criminal. If she expected his eyes to reflect judgement, she didn't see it. If she expected mercy, feigned or real, it was absent. He wasn't jaded. He wasn't distracted. He was here, and she had his full attention. This puzzlement might escape her at first, but little by little, it would bore into her as a drill into her skull.

Maybe it was the tophat.

<"I can't tell anything that really matters about you. Or rather I could, but there's no point in doing that. Not from where I'm standing. You know, on the corpses of your comrades.">

That was a lie. She wouldn't know it either way. Not in any definite fashion.

<"What can you tell about me, instead?">

It's worth noting she's wearing regular old cuffs. They're not suppressing her Reiatsu or anything.

strawberryman

2014-09-30, 09:55 PM

Regardless of the cuffs composure, it seems Kishi is choosing not to act for now. Or she's got no fight in her.

Which Setsurou may find suspect.

She spits, continuing her death glare for a few moments. <"Wanna know wha' ah think'v yeh, then?">

After a short pause, her head drops, and she mumbles something that might be hard to hear and comprehend with her accent.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-01, 07:53 AM

<"Are you deaf, woman? Or just upset to learn those who risked their lives with you accomplished nothing but their own death?">

It doesn't feel like he's baiting her. There's something about his tone that is very matter-of-fact. Almost unnervingly so.

And yet at the same time, his voice doesn't sound like it's MEANT to irritate or disrespect her. This contradiction continues to pulse in the background, like a headache in the making.

<"You can think whatever you want. But when I ask a question, I expect an answer.">

strawberryman

2014-10-01, 12:54 PM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Interrogation)

<"Ah'm a lil' deaf, aye. Ge' tha way when yer 'roun explodin' thans.">

More mumbling as she breaks in her sentence. And she's still looking to the ground. Well that's just rude.

<"An' ah sed yeh have a s***e taste'n hats.">

Kuroimaken

2014-10-01, 02:28 PM

<"I didn't really expect an uneducated beast such as yourself to comprehend the elegance and wonder in this design."> Now he spoke EXACTLY like a pompous little prick of a noble.

But why doesn't his voice and body match that? He's really damn hard to read.

<"But then again, if you can only use violence to change your environment, then you're really no different from a beaver. Or a bear. Either animal would probably take offense at the association.">

strawberryman

2014-10-01, 04:40 PM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Interrogation)

Kishi lets out a sick laugh, his expressions still being lost on her as she looks at the ground. <"Aye, yer righ' abou tha. Buh ta think wer really tha diff is a goat thin ta say, innit?">

Depending on Setsurou's knowledge of scottish slang, he might know that 'goat' can mean 'idiot'. And again, she mumbles something under her breath.

<"Inny idjit kin wear ah toppy.">

Kuroimaken

2014-10-01, 05:40 PM

<"Hmmm. You might not be entirely wrong.">

With that said, she can sense a small shadow over her eyes and a light press against her head.

<"Bit of a tight fit, all told.">

Does she look up?

What does she see?

strawberryman

2014-10-02, 02:09 AM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Interrogation)

(I am just assuming that she is in a position where her arms are handcuffed behind a chair.)

<"OI! Yeh better bolt yeh shinigami bastard!">

Kishi reacts to this suddenly and violently, grabbing the back of her chair, gaining as much balance as she can in her cuffed legs as she spins, whipping the chair at Setsurou before she loses her balance. It's not a second before she snaps the cuffs, darts for wherever the door is, rams it, and tries to make her escape.

...she doesn't seem too inclined to find out what Setsurou was up to.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-02, 08:20 AM

KnightDisciple

2014-10-02, 09:16 AM

[Hueco Mundo - Las Noches]
[Conversion Suites]

[Hueco Mundo - Las Noches]
(Conversion Suites)

((Skimming ftw!))

Quidel follows silently, only occasionally looking down upon the city as they pass over it. And then, they enter the suite. The attending conversion "technician" quickly goes through the explanation with as much detail as possible, but it's hard to tell whether Quidel actually has any interest, as he is silent until it comes to how long he wants to be put under. He turns to Turiel after some thought.

"...Segunda. I express my gratitude. However, I must ask of you another favor. I would like the old palace razed. As well as any uninhabited buildings in the Distrito Tercera... it is a slum, unworthy of my greatness. I will have it built anew, a corner of this city worthy of a God of the Sun." He's not exactly lying. In the previous Tercera's death throes, administration had fallen lax, and thus crime and illicit behavior shot up. Many buildings were unoccupied, and run down. Somewhat shameful, really.

Nonetheless, with a nod of... something approaching respect to Turiel, he turns to the attendant. "I will give three days." And with that, laying on the conversion table, Quidel Alamilla is coated in the white bandages inherent to the process, lasting darkness overtaking him for once in a long while.
Turiel just gives Quidel a beaming smile at the thanks and the request of a favor. A lesser being would find it intimidating just due to the Segunda's sheer presence. Quidel is no such lesser being, so he can take it as the sincere expression of amusement, happiness, enjoyment, whatever that it was intended as.

"Ha! You're more polite than most of the whipper-snappers around these parts. And you're right, that place is a dump. I'll rustle up some help from a couple of Districts and some of the bored folks in the army, we'll get the place cleared out. Anyone left will be given plenty of warning."

The implicit part of that being, if they were stupid enough to not leave when the Segunda Espada said a place was getting leveled, that was on their own heads.

"I look forward to your renovations for the place. We'll have it cleared out for you when you wake up, buddy."

He kept that big smile up until Quidel was well into the sleep brought on by the procedure, at which point the smile dropped down a bit.

"Hm. Yeah, I think I placed you, now. Might not quite be a dragon, but you're close enough in my book. I'll keep an eye on you...little brother."

He turned to the attendants, his face serious.

"Ensure the process goes smoothly. I will have a couple of courtesy guards sent over."

Because when you live in a city of soul-eating monsters it paid to be cautious sometimes. His tone brooked no argument, procedures be damned. With just a nod, he turned and left.

Within an hour and a half, there was a good-sized group of Arrancar poised along one side of the run-down Tercera District. A few slightly ragged-looking scouts ran back.

"We spread word wherever we could, but a few folks just got mad at us!"

"You did your part. What they do now is on them. Alright boys and girls, let's MOVE OUT!"

And with that booming call, the deconstruction of the buildings in the Tercera District began.

strawberryman

2014-10-02, 11:58 AM

<"How rude of you to try to leave before we're done talking. ">

As she spins the chair towards Setsurou, the Shinigami positions himself to one side. Her mad dash is cut short as his arm shoots out past her neck, twisting his palm outwards at an awkward angle and yanking backwards, using her own weight against a point of balance that should well send her flying against a nearby wall.

Kishi crashes rather unceremoniously into the wall, grunting, the chair Setsurou dodged smashed into pieces. She looks up hatefully. <"Yeh think jus 'cause yeh have tha upper hand tha'all sit down an-"> Oh, wow, cover the children's ears.

<"Ah don' rally gave a **** wot yeh think'o me.">

Draken

2014-10-02, 12:26 PM

Kuroimaken

2014-10-02, 03:38 PM

[Soul Society]

Apparently, Hideki receives a call, it was on the wrong thread, but lets answer anyway. Fortuitously, he has everything built into his helmet and does not need to stop working to pick up the phone.

"Engineering liutenant Koutetsu speaking."

"Sir, we've just received readings of a massive explosion in Eastern Russia. We have some preliminary reports and, um... a message."

____________________

Kishi crashes rather unceremoniously into the wall, grunting, the chair Setsurou dodged smashed into pieces. She looks up hatefully. <"Yeh think jus 'cause yeh have tha upper hand tha'all sit down an-"> Oh, wow, cover the children's ears.

<"Ah don' rally gave a **** wot yeh think'o me.">

<"That's a huge coincidence in certain similar, disgusting ways."> Setsurou replies nonchalantly. She can hear him pop a couple of joints as if they were stiff.

<"You can get up and try again. You can try to fight me at your leisure. But there are alternatives. Some of which I'm willing to present.

If you can get me to recognize you as more than the pathetic wretch I see before me now.">

Draken

2014-10-02, 03:41 PM

"Sir, we've just received readings of a massive explosion in Eastern Russia. We have some preliminary readings and, um... a message."

"And what is this message?"

Kuroimaken

2014-10-02, 04:22 PM

"I'm sending the image right now..."

It's visible from a high altitude, but it was clearly written with spiritual particles. In ice.

"WIL U GIT OF UR LEIZEE ASSES, XINIGUMMY"

Man. Someone make that guy take up writing lessons. The handwriting is horrible.

It's actually pretty hard to translate bad kanji writing into a joke without using them, so I opted for having him use pseudo-AOLspeak.

strawberryman

2014-10-02, 04:22 PM

<"That's a huge coincidence in certain similar, disgusting ways."> Setsurou replies nonchalantly. She can hear him pop a couple of joints as if they were stiff.

<"You can get up and try again. You can try to fight me at your leisure. But there are alternatives. Some of which I'm willing to present.

If you can get me to recognize you as more than the pathetic wretch I see before me now.">

<"Ah cannae teach yeh ta think ootside tha scoop ah yer own life. Yer a shinigami, an yeh got tha look'ah noble blood."> Well this one was certainly more perceptive than she let on. Comprehensible, less so.

She grimaces. <"So wot are yeh gettin' at? Ah go' nuthin' teh say ter yeh.">

Kuroimaken

2014-10-02, 04:33 PM

<"Ah cannae teach yeh ta think ootside tha scoop ah yer own life. Yer a shinigami, an yeh got tha look'ah noble blood."> Well this one was certainly more perceptive than she let on. Comprehensible, less so.

She grimaces. <"So wot are yeh gettin' at? Ah go' nuthin' teh say ter yeh.">

<"Wrong on both accounts. You're letting your hatred cloud your vision to opportunity.

I didn't ask you to change the way I think. That's beyond the ability of better people than yourself.

I'm asking you to show me something worth salvaging. I don't care what it is. What I absolutely refuse is to believe your life is a waste.

But I can't drag it out of you. It has to be presented voluntarily.">

He has a strange, crazed look on his eyes. His tone is calm, almost benevolent. And his face is otherwise neutral, while his body is practically oozing a strange kind of killer intent.

Yes, there's the beginning of a headache again...

strawberryman

2014-10-02, 04:59 PM

Kuroimaken

2014-10-02, 05:22 PM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Interrogation)

Kishi turns thoughtful for a moment. <"Well, ah worked'n tha mines fer ah age if yeh wan' a slave 'stead of ah hangin' corpse, an ah've bin tol' ah have ah mole on mah arse, if yeh care ta see."

Pressure.

It's not Reiatsu. At least it doesn't feel like it.

He feels... bigger. Like he's actually grown four inches since his last question.

He hasn't, of course.

<"No. Your past is insufficient.

I want you to show me something worth your future.

Stop, and truly think. ">

He felt like he'd gotten closer, but she didn't see his footsteps. She didn't see when.

strawberryman

2014-10-02, 05:50 PM

Kishi responds quite simply, ice in her glare. <"Or ye'll do wha'?">

Guess ah'll be joinen' yeh, Yuki.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-02, 06:27 PM

<"What makes you think I'd grant you the mercy of death?">

He grasped both sides of Kishi's head, and stared into her eyes.

<"Show me.">

strawberryman

2014-10-02, 07:28 PM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Interrogation)

...ah din' say tha' alood.

Kishi growls, continuing her death stare. <"**** you.">

Wot wood ah tell yeh anyway, shinigami? Tha' ah had a fam'ly? Brothers'n sisters?

<"Tha' ah honor a grea' man ba lookin' affer kids wi'no home?"> She stares when she realizes she was saying this aloud... and lunges, rational thought blocked out by rage as grabs for Setsurou's face, clawing at his eyes or ears, and once again going for a groin kick.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-02, 07:42 PM

And at last the beast smiled.

<"There it is.">

Her clawing has little effect. Setsurou's skin breaks and bleeds a bit, but it's nothing that's going to give her an advantage.

As for her kick to the groin, No One Technique Works on A Saint Twice Setsurou blocks it, and palms at her stomach. No great impact behind it. It is little more of a shove than anything else. It's his Reiatsu that pushes further and against her lungs, pressing into them in a way she hadn't know.

<"To care more for others than you do yourself is a gift you shouldn't squander. You certainly don't expect the nobles or the Shinigami to do anything about it, do you?

Still, I had to know there was more to the fire in your eyes, to your purpose, than simple blind rage and rebellion. That much, you've earned.

Congratulations. ">

strawberryman

2014-10-03, 04:18 PM

Draken

2014-10-03, 04:47 PM

Kuroimaken

2014-10-03, 05:13 PM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Interrogation)

Kishi coughs forcefully and cringes as the air is forced out of her lungs, and she slides to her side, glaring at Setsurou as she recovers from the maneuver. She really just doesn't have anything else to say at this point.

<"I presume you can read?">

He tosses a small file at her feet.

___________________

The hapless officer insists, however.

"The Commander-General isn't available at the moment, sir. We're running some analysis right now.

...we have no idea who could've written this. Not to the point where it's, um... visible from space, with some magnification.

We have already been able to ascertain that the location is close enough to the place where the landmass from Soul Society impacted, but we don't yet know the reason behind the second impact. My superior suggested I forward this to you, so you could offer your input."

strawberryman

2014-10-04, 09:09 PM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Interrogation)

Kishi doesn't respond, flicking the folder open with a casual, irritable motion as she sits up. She observes it dispassionately, still keeping her wits about her in case of sudden ambush.

She can in fact read, it seems.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-04, 09:38 PM

It's... a drafting form.

It details a contract, made more accessible for easier understanding, whereby she pleads to enter the service of the Gotei rather than face criminal charges, and her list is actually pretty long.

The heck?

strawberryman

2014-10-04, 10:36 PM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Interrogation)

<"...are ye daft? Ah'll grow harns 'fore ah join yer ratarse army.">

That sounds like a no. She flips it away with barely a thought.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-05, 01:14 AM

<"Even if it means the children under your care will go untended?

See, my family runs an orphanage. I could even show it to you. You know what one of the biggest hurdle to running it is?

Nearly every time we try to bring in a child, they run away from us, like we're going to eat them with our soup. They don't trust us all. Because we're nobles and Shinigami, they figure whatever we go to them for isn't in their best interest. And we can't exactly run after them and bring them in against their will.

We've got enough soldiers. I'm not drafting you to fight as one.

I'm offering you a chance to work with your community. Improve it.

That's one hell of a step up from killing, isn't it?">

Draken

2014-10-05, 11:44 AM

The hapless officer insists, however.

[COLOR="#800080"]"The Commander-General isn't available at the moment, sir. We're running some analysis right now.

...we have no idea who could've written this. Not to the point where it's, um... visible from space, with some magnification.

We have already been able to ascertain that the location is close enough to the place where the landmass from Soul Society impacted, but we don't yet know the reason behind the second impact. My superior suggested I forward this to you, so you could offer your input."

There is an horrible sound of lightning, wind and thunder in the phone before Hideki responds again.

"Ok. If my systems are correct - and they are - you are working on one of the new platforms, Takenaka issued recently. There is a panel in your console with a chrome rendition of what may or may not be a feminine adult toy and you may have mentally promised never to touch it on pure principle. That is the controls for an unmanned probe that you can use to explore Earth and ascertain the situation from a closer angle. Report your findings to one of your superiors and tell them that whatever the result is, it is likely not my problem to solve, specially not when I am working on the rather daunting project of building us a planet."

Frozen_Feet

2014-10-05, 01:17 PM

[Soul Society; Seireitei; IntSec holding cells]

Meanwhile, a certain Arrancar-like being is lazing back in its cell. Then, a sudden tremor shakes its cell, and its seven eyes open in bewilderment. "What in the world...?" it utters and sits up. As the tremors continue, it gets off its spartan jail bed and presses its right ear against the floor. The snake on its shoulder and a few on its head press their heads against the floor too, analyzing the scope and rhythm of the tremors.

Interesting. Someone is throwing extremely heavy and large objects against the ground from below. At first, the observation appears non-sensical, as it'd require there to be a huge empty space under ground. Then the Arrancar realizes - the world it's in is not a proper sphere. It is a hemisphere or, perhaps, disk-like in construction!

But what's behind all these impacts? The Arrancar hasn't got the slightest idea, as it can't see through miles and miles of rock separating it from the other side of this world. It gets up and looks through the bars of its cell, shouting to the hallway. "Hey! What's up with all the earthquakes? Are we looking for another disaster to strike? Because we would like to be evacuated if we are!"

---

[Hueco Mundo; what formerly was Forest of the Menos] (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00DV0Pj_I1c)

Two black-clad figures leap, run and crawl through the tunnels that once housed countless giant Hollows, but which are now empty due to rising influence of Las Noches. For the most part of the journey, the only thing lighting their way is the red glow from their own eyes; occasionally, moonlight breaks into the caverns through holes created by the recent rain of meteors.

They've been at it for quite a while. It's hard to keep track of time in the eternal dark, so they can't tell exactly how long. The cycle of day and night doesn't exist here.

Then, finally, they find it. Buried under a pile of moonlit rubble, something stirs. A titanic beast, left behind by its kin and driven mad by hunger. As it senses the nearing pair, its gargantuan pale-skinned hands start shifting the boulders so it can get at its prey.

"Ready when you are", the first black-clad figure says, grasping the hilt of its Zanpakuto. Nodding, the second figure pulls out a long rolls of white fabric.

Then, the beast lunges at them. Roaring, it lunges at the first figure, trying to close it within its palm. The figure sidesteps, cutting deep gashes along its arm and the proceeding to kick it in the face, with enough force to knock it back down and crack its mask.

"Hurry! It won't stay down for long!"

Case in point, the pallid flesh and black blood of the beast boild for a second and its wounds close. Pieces of its mask rain down, only to reveal it has already created a new one under it. It opens its maw wide, a red glow gathering in its mouth... but before it can aim, the second figure has already gotten to its feet and bound its legs together. The first form extends its free hand, creating a transparent barrier to block the incoming blast. "Barera de Negacion." The Cero strikes the wall, shaking the whole cavern with its force but leaving the first figure unperturbed.

Meanwhile, the second figure circles the angry titan with blinding speed, now tying its arms against its body. However, as the beast notices the annoying gnat doing this, it begins to tear at the fabric. The fabric is strong and flexible, but not infinitely so; as the beast rages, it starts to fray and tear. "A little help would be nice!", the second figure shouts, midly worried. The first figure complies by kicking the beast to its head again - and again and again, until it's so dazed it just remains in the pile of rubble, breathing laboredly.

The two figures finish tying it up, covering its form in bandages from head to toe. Then - they wait. After a while, the titan regenerates enough to begin rampaging again, trashing around in its binds and knocking down the fossilized trees holding up the roof of the cave. The black-clad figures don't mind, simply creating barriers above themselves to shield themselves from the falling stones.

Eventually, the beast tires, and slumps down into a lotus position. Steam rises from between its bandages as its form gradually shrinks. When it is at approximately human size, two piles of rubble next to it stir and the black-clad figures dig themselves out to look at their work.

"So.... what now?", the second form asks.

"That is... a good question", the first one notes ponderously. "We have our creator's memories on the subject, but we are not him. We suspect he didn't think this far."

"Well... we've got to try something. Otherwise, this all has been in vain."

"True enough", the first one says and nods. Then, it pulls the excess Zanpakuto from its belt and stabs it into the bandaged form. "If this doesn't work out, at least then we'll know when we find the next one."

For a while, nothing happens. The bandaged creature is so still, the one who stabbed it can't even tells if its alive anymore... or, well, what passes for being "alive" for Hollows. When nothing continues to happen, the black-clad figure sighs and decides to pull out the sword - only to find out it can't. Alarmed, it tries again, but every time it nudges the blade out, it only sinks deeper in. Even more oddly, the long blade doesn't come out from the other side of the creature's body, as if it's being absorbed into it. Worried that it, too, might get absorbed, the black-clad figure lets go. There's a horrible crunching sound as the soulsteel fold into itself and then settles where the creature's hollow hole used to be, forming into a metallic heart. Then its obscured from view as the bandages shift and change into black clothing.

Now, the two black-clad figures are accompanied by a third. This one just doesn't have any eyes or mouths. Its face is smooth and black, with two curved horns rising from its forehead.

"... well, that's new", the first figure remarks, scratching its head. The second looks at him questioningly.

"Maybe it is flawed?"

We are just fine, thank you, a voice rumbles from within the third. It appears the details of the process change with each iteration. It's nothing to worry about.

The two figures give the third some concerned looks. "Change? For better or for worse?"

The third doesn't answer. Instead, it stands up and dusts itself. ... let's go. We are hungry.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-05, 02:49 PM

There is an horrible sound of lightning, wind and thunder in the phone before Hideki responds again.

"Ok. If my systems are correct - and they are - you are working on one of the new platforms, Takenaka issued recently. There is a panel in your console with a chrome rendition of what may or may not be a feminine adult toy and you may have mentally promised never to touch it on pure principle. That is the controls for an unmanned probe that you can use to explore Earth and ascertain the situation from a closer angle. Report your findings to one of your superiors and tell them that whatever the result is, it is likely not my problem to solve, specially not when I am working on the rather daunting project of building us a planet."

"...*sigh* Very well, sir. Over and out."

Well whose problem would it be to solve then?!

Draken

2014-10-05, 03:22 PM

"...*sigh* Very well, sir. Over and out."

Well whose problem would it be to solve then?!

Well, strictly speaking, the job belongs to Tsukino Hikaru and the rest of the 5th Reconnaissance Division.

Maybe it can be outsourced to the Pack if a combat situation is detected.

But it damn sure isn't Engineering's field of expertise.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-05, 04:04 PM

Tsukino Hikaru is kind of MIA, and explaining the unexplainable should be the work of data analysts. In the absence of a specific Division tasked with it, the next logical step would be to send it to a scientist.

And well, Hideki is a scientist... right?

A mishap with chain of command that will surely get cleared once the Acting Commander-General gets here...

Draken

2014-10-05, 05:06 PM

The mystery of who wrote huge icy letters on Earth is not for a scientist to solve, but a sleuth. Hardly a question of how, so much as a question of who.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-05, 05:48 PM

So basically it boils down to a kind of intelligence that Hideki does not have?

Somehow, somewhere, irony is having a laugh.

strawberryman

2014-10-06, 11:09 AM

Kuroimaken

2014-10-06, 11:29 AM

<"Because they can moan all they like, but they don't have direct authority over Gotei affairs, nor over other families' affairs. As long as you're a prisoner, your fate is in my hands, and conscription into service is a measure I can actually employ.

However, if you refuse the draft, then all I really CAN do is throw you into the grinding gears of the legal system. That's not an option that favors you at all.

So you made some mistakes. I get it. You felt like you had no other choice, and whether that was the case or not, this is where you are now.

You have a choice between potentially doing some good or definitely dying while others throw your name in the mud. I know what I'd pick. How about you?">

- - - Updated - - -

[Soul Society; Seireitei; IntSec holding cells]

Meanwhile, a certain Arrancar-like being is lazing back in its cell. Then, a sudden tremor shakes its cell, and its seven eyes open in bewilderment. "What in the world...?" it utters and sits up. As the tremors continue, it gets off its spartan jail bed and presses its right ear against the floor. The snake on its shoulder and a few on its head press their heads against the floor too, analyzing the scope and rhythm of the tremors.

Interesting. Someone is throwing extremely heavy and large objects against the ground from below. At first, the observation appears non-sensical, as it'd require there to be a huge empty space under ground. Then the Arrancar realizes - the world it's in is not a proper sphere. It is a hemisphere or, perhaps, disk-like in construction!

But what's behind all these impacts? The Arrancar hasn't got the slightest idea, as it can't see through miles and miles of rock separating it from the other side of this world. It gets up and looks through the bars of its cell, shouting to the hallway. "Hey! What's up with all the earthquakes? Are we looking for another disaster to strike? Because we would like to be evacuated if we are!"

"Pipe down, fella." Comes the weary voice of a nearby guard. "It's just the folks of Engineering working. Nothing to worry about."

Frozen_Feet

2014-10-07, 04:56 AM

"Oh? Pray tell us, what exactly is the work they're doing?"

Kuroimaken

2014-10-07, 06:00 AM

"Lassoing asteroids for raw materials, I'd guess. We lost some of our landmass when we got shifted here, you know?"

strawberryman

2014-10-07, 06:20 PM

Draken

2014-10-07, 06:50 PM

Seireitei - IntSec Headquarters

Four soldiers dressed in dark green uniforms and steel armor approach the grounds, the personal guard of a noble. Bearing the crest of the centipede. Koutetsu.

Just as they enter the building, elder Azuma appears at their front in a flash (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AB0k4Itneg). His vests a mix of a shinigami uniform and his family's colors. A short but well-built man for his age, with short graying hair and eyes concealed by a visor not unlike Takenaka Chouko's, possibly an identical device.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-07, 08:58 PM

<"Ah'm 'fraid tha'll happen innyway. De yeh rally think tha'll jes lemme live? If yer sa inves'ed in mah survival, jes ge' outter ma way."> She says this low enough that anyone listening couldn't really catch it.

<"Neither Central 46 nor the noble houses have any control over the Shinoreitsujin, or 'Shinigami academy' as some in the Rukongai call it.

Why are you being so insufferable? You're just willing to throw your life away for nothing? To prove a point about the hopelessness of it all?

In that case, I might as well head to district XX and kill those children myself. After all, their lives are a moot point. I'll bring you the video.">

__________________

[Seireitei: IntSec Headquarters]

A very hurried and very distraught looking officer stumbles on his feet to meet the escort as well as elder Azuma.

"K-k-k-k-koutetsu-dono! We were not aware of your coming! W-what can we do for you, sir?!"

The officer in question is obviously very unused to dealing with nobility.

strawberryman

2014-10-07, 09:16 PM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Interrogation)

Kishi spits at Setsurou's face, realizing punching him more would just be silly and pointless. She sure does look like she wants to punch him. <"Ah'm sayin' ah dannae plan tah sell ou' on summin' wot will be poin'less anyhow. If yeh rally care, jus' lemme go. If nah, piss off.">

Kuroimaken

2014-10-07, 09:28 PM

This time he actually bothers to deflect it.

And he finally looks genuinely angry. Not that Kishi can tell the difference. Not that whether the sentiment is real or illusion, that it would make a difference.

<" When are you going to get it through your thick skull THAT'S NOT FOR YOU TO DECIDE?!

For all that's holy, I get that you don't trust me, but you can't possibly be this stupid! I'm offering you the chance to continue caring for those kids from a position where you can't be touched save for your own attitude! Do you seriously think I'd be trying this hard on just any prisoner? I could be delegating this to any other officer who'd be drilling you, giving you one chance and then walking away!

What the hell do you want so badly to die for?!">

Draken

2014-10-07, 09:41 PM

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 07:16 AM

IntSec Headquarters

Azuma just walks right by, expecting the officer to follow.

"You can get started by taking me to the cells. I have been told that your captain has a prisoner that led an attack on my property and tried to kill my niece."

"I'm afraid that's not something within my authority to allow, sir. Security protocols, for one. But I'll contact the Captain. Please, this way."

The officer is, understandably enough, sweating bullets.

Frozen_Feet

2014-10-08, 10:11 AM

[Soul Society; Seireitei; IntSec holding cells]

"Lassoing asteroids for raw materials, I'd guess. We lost some of our landmass when we got shifted here, you know?"

"How would we know? We've never been to your land before things went sort of crazy. It could've always been like this", the snake-haired Arrancar remarks somewhat absent-mindedly.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 10:17 AM

[Soul Society; Seireitei; IntSec holding cells]

"How would we know? We've never been to your land before things went sort of crazy. It could've always been like this", the snake-haired Arrancar remarks somewhat absent-mindedly.

"Good point, I guess. Anyway, I don't know all the details, but if evacuation WERE necessary you'd be hearing a lotta loud sirens by now."

Draken

2014-10-08, 11:34 AM

"I'm afraid that's not something within my authority to allow, sir. Security protocols, for one. But I'll contact the Captain. Please, this way."

The officer is, understandably enough, sweating bullets.

"That is not within my authority to allow, sir. Is the greatest pile of ignorance I am likely to hear today. Followed closely by security protocols, for one. I have to a right to identify the individual who has led no less than eight different assaults on my property, family and servants, and I damn well have a right to make sure that imbecile Hishikawa is not letting his deviant attraction for female criminals get the best of him, if only for the benefit of his current mark."

"Now take me to the bloody prisoner. I want to go press charges before Central within the hour and I need to know her name to do so properly."

This man is not happy.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 01:27 PM

At this point, a different officer takes over. A bigger one, with a light of sagacity in his eyes.

And blocks Azuma's path.

"Your feelings on the matter notwithstanding, there is neither provision nor need for you to actually come in contact with said prisoner. We are not, in fact, so much as obligated to provide you with a mugshot until the investigation into the incident is concluded - which it will be as soon as the prisoner's interrogation is finished. We're quite efficient that way.

With that being the case, and considering your obvious emotional distress, we will ignore the insult you have just seen fit to throw at our Captain's honor, provided you allow us to accompany you to the Captain's office instead of continuing to make a mockery of proper Gotei military procedure.

Sir."

____________________________

Setsurou's pocket beeps. He pulls a pager from within.

He curses under his breath.

<"Under provision blah blah blah, number yaddayaddayaddanotimportant of Seireitei law, you have 24 hours to decide.

If you do choose the noose over my deal, I suggest you write down in detail everything you know that motivated your attacks on the Koutetsu family.

I have to put out a fire and keep your head from going to the chopping block early.">

And he leaves.

Draken

2014-10-08, 02:21 PM

Azuma has the light of green fire in his visor.

"Proper military procedure my ass, this matter should have been dealt with by the local enforcement, not by you dunderheads and your military police project. Which I was damn sure was aimed at the truly lawless districts past the fiftieth ring."

"But sure! Lead the way!"

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 03:08 PM

The large officer doesn't bother to question exactly which "local law enforcement" that might be, considering the precarious situation Azuma's niece was in when found.

He merely bows and leads the way to Setsurou's admittedly much-more-spartan-than-expected office.

Well, at least the chairs look comfortable.

Setsurou himself is at the door in no less than five minutes on the dot.

"Koutetsu Azuma-dono. To what exactly do I owe the honor of your visit?"

His tone is calm and very patient, all told.

Draken

2014-10-08, 03:21 PM

That would have been the girl herself, along with her guards, obviously. Probably just her guards.

"You know why I am here Hishikawa, you got Kishi in your cells and I want to know who is the longstanding thorn in my side that was hiding behind the helmet."

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 03:38 PM

"There was no need to come personally, Koutetsu-dono. At the worst, you would still see her face once it went to trial. A simple request for a picture would have sufficed. We need not suppress information about imprisoned criminals, provided it won't alter the course of investigations.

It won't, I presume?"

Draken

2014-10-08, 03:55 PM

"That depends on what course your investigation is going in. And yes, normally I would have sent Hideki but he is busy making sure we will enjoy a stable orbit for the next few centuries. And probably will be for the next decade at least."

"So, what course is your investigation going in?"

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 04:06 PM

"I was personally responsible for her capture. My field officers provided me with a number of very consistent reports of her actions before my arrival as well.

She is still in possession of a significant amount of information I hope to coax out of her within the next 24 hours, but a small number of her accomplices is being tailed as we speak.

One thing bothers me. We have yet to establish motive, and that could prove something difficult to uncover. Without knowing that much, we risk others like her arising. I can't help but wonder why she appeared to target Koutetsu holdings exclusively.

You obviously know her targets better than me, Koutetsu-dono. Is there anything you can tell me?"

Draken

2014-10-08, 04:28 PM

"Quite honestly no. All I heard from those we captured is some drivel about our magic destroying souls. I assume someone is spreading these claims to rile up malcontents."

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 04:58 PM

Setsurou perks a brow at that statement.

"Yes, I recall her speaking something similar at the time of her arrest, but I couldn't make sense of it. She also mentioned following in the footsteps of a man by looking after children with no home. Neither of those sentences make sense unless she believes your family is using homeless children in the development of spells...

I'm curious, Koutetsu-dono. How did you know Kishi was female? She wore quite a lot of bulky armor, and seldom spoke."

Draken

2014-10-08, 05:39 PM

Azuma gives Setsurou the dirtiest look a man whose eyes cannot be seen will ever give to someone who asked a foolish question.

"... You have one chance to guess that before I make a formal petition to move this case to a more skilled detective, such as my sister's cat."

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 06:01 PM

"On the contrary.

You came in demanding to know 'who is the longstanding thorn in your side that was hiding behind the helmet'. But you also made mention of me as a sexual deviant to my troops citing the prisoner's gender - the officer who contacted me was generous enough to cite that much.

Your niece could've actually told you Kishi is a woman. The Koutetsu family has considerable resources at its disposal, and your niece had a good, long look at her, so you could find out on your own who she was. You also had other pieces of evidence at your disposal that would point to her likely background, and the fact that she targeted your family exclusively hints at a direct connection. This all becomes especially odd when you consider she actually eluded your capture on at least eight separate occasions.

You know who Kishi is. You've come here to confirm your suspicions."

At this point, Setsurou smiled.

"Would you care to share?"

Draken

2014-10-08, 06:24 PM

strawberryman

2014-10-08, 06:40 PM

Chouko, in the midst of mechanical insanity in the depths of her lab, looks up from apparently putting together another android chassis while her Symphony works on other things in her lab (primarily the oversight for the gravity glove production).

Bass looks over. "...is something wrong, mother?"

Chouko thinks for a moment. "...nah, just think someone was t-CHOO!" And the sneeze ends this little joke intermission.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 07:07 PM

"Bravo, you unearthed the mystery of how I know 'Kishi' is a woman. The rest of your wild mass guessing falls flat."

"Misaka had a good long look at her, but little more than you did, and she had no terminals on hand to give her face a scan and compare it to the database. And looking the thing over picture by picture will take a lifetime. Which is why I am here, I have the scanner, a fancy little toy made by my grandson and his girlfriend."

"So no, I do not know who she is. I am sorely lacking in suspects. And I intend to change that."

Of course, even if Setsurou had been right, Azuma wouldn't have admitted it.

"All the fancy gadgetry and you still can't make with the sleuthing on your own? I am perhaps more than a little disappointed.

You understand my skepticism, of course. I'm kind of wondering what database you are actually matching against, why you would need to employ the device personally, and how knowing who she is now helps you match her as a suspect for her previous actions.

Do kindly explain it to me like I'm a slow child."

Draken

2014-10-08, 07:32 PM

"Really."

"It is called the sensus, we kept it in order to know the population of Soul Society, know when souls need to go or come in, also to keep track of taxes and for times like this. I suppose the first function is no more."

"And I am here because I have a particular combination of duty, outrage, free time and equipment to perform the job. And I want to learn who this person is so that I can track her origins and have some foundation to track the rest of the terrorist cells who have been stealing our equipment, exploding the entrances to my mines, sometimes with miners inside, setting fire to the power grids that let the 26th feed electricity to the surrounding rings, vandalizing public parks, letting loose our cattle, pillaging crops, and just plain throwing bombs at my family!"

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 07:53 PM

"Did I mention I already have those people in custody?

And those that I don't, are being tailed as of this moment to bring them in? Yes, I'm certain I mentioned that.

You give them far too much credit by calling them a 'terrorist cell'. They're not organized or trained well enough to classify. I won't dispute the heinousness of their actions, but it is clear to me that you know more about their motivations than you're actually letting on.

Still, in consideration for leveling with me, I will at least let you know that their weapon usage of choice is no coincidence. There's considerable evidence pointing towards Kishi being a former miner herself. They knew where to assault your mines because she used to work in them. They stole your explosives because she knew where they'd be found."

Draken

2014-10-08, 08:16 PM

"It is becoming increasingly clear that you are not going to be helpful and will keep acting like everything is a big conspiracy that ends up with the blame on me. Probably because of that unsavory story about your girlfriend's family, isn't it."

Azuma rises from his chair.

"So I will be blunt, are you going to show me her face and make the task of identifying her easier on all of us or should I just walk out of that door and go on with my day?"

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 08:35 PM

"And here I thought I was making things murky enough. The pretentiousness of it all."

Whether his sarcasm let on how much he was enjoying making a fool of Azuma was up for debate.

"Not that whomever I decide to relate myself to is any of your business. Or anyone else's. This is the second time in less than a half hour you've chosen to insult me, instead of cooperating with me.

I am making this harder than it has to be because you're making a point of acting in a thoroughly obnoxious manner. Had you explained to me from the start you were planning on using a device to identify the criminal, we would probably already be done with this business.

For obvious reasons, the prisoner won't cooperate if you're the one using the device. So if you consent to me using it instead, then I'll give you what you want in exchange for your cooperation in clearing up the ridiculous charges her group is leveling against your family."

Draken

2014-10-08, 08:59 PM

Azuma pulls out his visor, holding it up for Setsurou to see and revealing his whitened, milky eyes. Pieces of the thing are left behind, attached to the sides of his head.

"This is the device and I don't think you can use it without a round of surgery first. I am fairly sure you have seen Hideki and Chouko with these before and have no idea how you could not make a connection."

He connects the thing back, he is probably blind as a bat without it.

"And no, who you relate to is most certainly not my problem. The tales of their lives, however, might be."

"And to be honest, it speaks of at least one more brand of deviant behavior if your reaction to obnoxiousness is to make sure it keeps happening by initiating a cycle instead of cutting it short."

"So. May I see the prisoner now?"

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 09:37 PM

"...to be fair, it never occurred to me that either might be blind. I always presumed they used such devices to augment their actual vision, not compensate. For that, I'm actually sorry.

Speaking of, by that token, you should be the mature one to cut it short.

In any case, let's get to the holding cells. I would prefer if the prisoner didn't actually see you. Does your device work through two-way mirrors?"

Draken

2014-10-08, 09:43 PM

"They do use it to augment their natural vision. I am old, cataracts happen."

"And yes, it works over a two-way mirror. Why wouldn't it. It is how I see."

Azuma follows Setsurou to the cells.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 10:37 PM

It's not long before they get to a room adjacent to the cell Kishi is in. Much better restraints this time.

If she got the bright idea to try and bullrush the guards who'd bring her back to her cell when Setsurou left, she might find the ones assigned to her safekeeping are very, very competent at what they do.

"Here we are."

Draken

2014-10-08, 11:26 PM

Azuma stares at the woman for about five minutes before speaking again.

"Aoiwa Gwynned, 270 years old. Marked as a resident of Rokushõkairõ, formerly named Aoiwa. Formerly employed as a miner, dismissed due to prolonged absence. No recorded family."

The man goes silent again while staring down Gwynned through the mirror.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 11:34 PM

"Something on your mind, Koutetsu-dono?" Setsurou responds when the elder goes silent.

Draken

2014-10-08, 11:49 PM

"I am compiling a list of other citizens of former Aoiwa who have been skipping work."

He turns his back and makes to leave.

"But I can do that on my way out."

Kuroimaken

2014-10-08, 11:58 PM

"Figures. Her comrades are probably from the same ward...

But something still doesn't fit..."

Draken

2014-10-09, 12:06 AM

Azuma stops.

"I have six of her former coworkers listed here, Misaka told me there were sixteen attackers and you said you had more prisoners? I want to see them as well."

strawberryman

2014-10-09, 12:07 AM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Prisons)

As ever, Kishi did not disappoint. She didn't escape, but her general non-combativeness did not last to the cells. With a surprise attack, she managed to rough up one of the guards pretty well, and got a good few meters through the building before being tackled and subdued, brought to her cell unconscious. No casualties, just a couple lost tooth and a developing black eye in the guard she attacked, and a few doors and walls were smashed through.

She sure is turning out to be a pain in the ass for Setsurou, isn't she?

Kuroimaken

2014-10-09, 07:09 AM

Azuma stops.

"I have six of her former coworkers listed here, Misaka told me there were sixteen attackers and you said you had more prisoners? I want to see them as well."

"Sure. We're already here."

As it turns out, her cell wasn't the only one that could be observed without the prisoners knowing. Inspecting them shouldn't be an issue.

Luckily for Kishi, Setsurou had made sure the treatment of prisoners was a touch more humane. Under the previous Captain's leadership, her shenanigans would've been met with corporal punishment. She gets away with just being forced under a number of Bakudou. If she wants to tinkle, she'll have to ask a guard for help.

Frozen_Feet

2014-10-09, 11:00 AM

The ruckus caused by "Kishi" as she's brought in stops the musings of the incarcerated Arrancar. The chaos caused by collapsing walls would be a perfect oppurtunity to escape for someone inclined to try, but the Arrancar is far too laid back to even think about it. Instead, it looks at the newcomer with curiosity.

strawberryman

2014-10-09, 01:18 PM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Prison)

Kishi, unfortunately, is either still unconscious or not inclined to share the curiosity of her fellow prisoner.

It was night-time, a few weeks after Gwyn joined Yuki and the others. And by now, she'd been learning japanese from a patient Yuki, and her foster sister was getting more confident with her english. "My... name is... Gwyn. I live... in Aoiwa."

Yuki smiles. <"Very good, Gwyn.">

Gwyn scoffs. <"Yeh, only took me ah week ter learn thammuch. Jus' think, nex' week ah mat'be able ter pick up some bread."> Her foster sister chuckles.

<"Don't be discouraged, Gwyn. You're a lot smarter than you think!">

<"Good ter know yeh jus' think Ah'm a'bi less'n an idjit. Nah ev'ryone kin be grea' like yeh, Yuki.">

Yuki sighs and shakes her head. <"I'm not great, Gwyn. I'm just..."> She pauses, looking sadly to the ground. <"...I'd rather just be normal, thanks. Some great people aren't all they're... erm. 'Cracked up to be.'">

<"...yeh rally 'ave teh geh over tha, Yuki. Yer grea' 'cause yer kind'n... graceful. Yeh don' le' the li'l thin's get ta yeh.">

<"...you only think you know me, Gwyn.">

Gwyn seems a little taken aback by this, and... just sighs irritably, rolling over into her cot. <"...wotever yeh say. Nigh'.">

Yuki leans up, reaching over... then sighs again, laying back and lapsing into silence.

Draken

2014-10-09, 02:03 PM

Azuma looks around the cells, matching the prisoners, giving the arrancar a short stare with a raised eyebrow.

"Three matches with Gwynned's former coworkers. Four more absentees. Four former Aoiwa denizens, two Kumokabe denizens, one Rokushõkairõ citizen."

No names, can't name all these NPCs, their fate is namelessness in our ears.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-09, 02:18 PM

"So they're all from the Koutetsu family's controlled districts. Some of these guys actually have priors for which they had been released due to lack of evidence... but it still doesn't tell us why." Setsurou's tone indicates this isn't really new information for him. The elder might be surprised to know that he's basically pulling their files from memory.

"I could understand if they were all from Aoiwa. But the other districts don't have any major incidents registered."

Draken

2014-10-09, 08:49 PM

"There is only one common thread in all of this debacle and you know it, Hishikawa."

Azuma makes his way out of the holding cell area.

"A person might let go, but friends and family never do."

Kuroimaken

2014-10-09, 10:21 PM

"...you're actually pinning this on Kobayashi, and I'm the conspíracy nut?"

Draken

2014-10-09, 10:47 PM

"No, I am not saying she is behind these attacks. I am saying her family's incident may be the reason. I hazard a guess that this Gwynned knew miss Kobayashi in their youth and presumed her dead with her kin following the experiment."

Kuroimaken

2014-10-09, 11:00 PM

"...just about insane enough to make sense. I don't think she's contacted anyone she previously knew.

Still missing pieces, though. If it were just a matter of getting revenge on your family, they would want to minimize civilian casualties. No, eliminate them altogether. Their methods go too far for that. Crosses a line they weren't meant to cross if they still wanted to be able to sleep at night.

There's something we still don't know about this whole incident, Koutetsu-dono."

Frozen_Feet

2014-10-10, 04:56 AM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Prison)

Kishi, unfortunately, is either still unconscious or not inclined to share the curiosity of her fellow prisoner.

The Arrancar waits for a while, waiting for the other inmate to stir. After a while, it knocks on its jail cell bars, trying to rouse her attention. "You took quite a beating, from the sound and looks of it. What in the world did you do?"

strawberryman

2014-10-10, 12:46 PM

[Soul Society]
(IntSec Prison)

Kishi - or as revealed by Azuma, Gwynned - groans, not being able to move due to the bakudou. She growls in response to the questioning.

"Blew s*** up."

Frozen_Feet

2014-10-14, 09:43 AM

A smile that's a bit too toothy, with bit too sharp teeth to boot, spreads over the Arrancar's face as it leans against the bars and looks at Gwynned. "Oh? Whose **** and why?"

Draken

2014-10-20, 09:05 AM

[IntSec]

"I am aware that there is plenty we don't know. You should try waking that girl up to try to question her with the new information."

------------

[Former Location of Soul Society]

A large garganta opens in the empty belly of the beast, all but touching the ground right in the center, and out of it stretch a great number of clawed and eyed limbs belonging to Argos and bringing forth a number of white-plated men and beasts carrying cankerous orbs.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-20, 09:46 AM

[IntSec]

"I am aware that there is plenty we don't know. You should try waking that girl up to try to question her with the new information."

------------

"I suppose. I'll give her some time to recover first. Let some of her anger settle in. People holding on to negative emotions tend to give more information if you know how to play them.

Shall I escort you outside?"

Draken

2014-10-20, 10:40 AM

"No, I can lead myself out just fine."

And with that, Azuma heads off.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-20, 10:54 AM

[The Next Day! - A secluded portion of IntSec apart from HQ labeled "Captain's Personal Room"]

Masaru was invited to come here today. Being that this was, at least in part, unofficial business, it wouldn't do to discuss it at the HQ offices.

By contrast with his actual office, this space was practically assaulting all senses with information. Hot and cold colors blended seamlessly and tastefully in the decor, a number of paintings small and large adorning the walls. A couple of windows let in sufficient, filtered sunlight so that the room is adequately lit, but not so much so as to cover the artworks. There are a number of panels sculpted into the walls, as well as actual statues scattered here and there. Huge bookcases remain to either side of the main desk, its books organized by subject and yet creating a small piece of artwork on its own by using the differently-colored covers. If one pays enough attention, they'll realize there's a story to be told, but the sequence is intentionally confusing, and yet the entire office has a highly symmetrical feel.

"Welcome, Captain. Please, take a seat."

KnightDisciple

2014-10-20, 01:23 PM

[Court of Pure Souls, Soul Society]
[Setsurou's Personal Room, IntSec Division Headquarters]

[The Next Day! - A secluded portion of IntSec apart from HQ labeled "Captain's Personal Room"]

Masaru was invited to come here today. Being that this was, at least in part, unofficial business, it wouldn't do to discuss it at the HQ offices.

By contrast with his actual office, this space was practically assaulting all senses with information. Hot and cold colors blended seamlessly and tastefully in the decor, a number of paintings small and large adorning the walls. A couple of windows let in sufficient, filtered sunlight so that the room is adequately lit, but not so much so as to cover the artworks. There are a number of panels sculpted into the walls, as well as actual statues scattered here and there. Huge bookcases remain to either side of the main desk, its books organized by subject and yet creating a small piece of artwork on its own by using the differently-colored covers. If one pays enough attention, they'll realize there's a story to be told, but the sequence is intentionally confusing, and yet the entire office has a highly symmetrical feel.

"Welcome, Captain. Please, take a seat."
Masaru walked into the room with deliberate care, and took several moments to take in the artwork of the room, both the individual items and the collective whole. While not something he felt he'd enjoy working in day in and day out, he was nonetheless impressed by the skill required for the arrangement. He gave the Captain a slight bow as he entered, before smoothly sitting down.

"While the confidence is appreciated I feel it would be more prudent to refer to me as "Acting Captain" or "Officer" until and unless I am officially delegated that rank. Which requires that our Acting Captain-Commander be formally recognized as such by the Central 46's vote. I feel assured that wise and august body will produce a timely resolution to that pending matter, which in turn will provide timely resolutions to other issues."

Kuroimaken

2014-10-20, 04:47 PM

"I see you've been doing your homework.

But I feel confident we needn't concern ourselves with technicalities. I mean, who would they reasonably replace you with if you were still available?

We also need not concern ourselves with prying eyes. I saw to it myself. No one will be able to videotape your pitfalls as a student nor discover what a disastrous professor I happen to be."

His delivery is absolutely deadpan, which may or may not undercut the humor in his comment.

"You're familiar with basic and advanced military protocol. The good news is: because of that, I don't need to explain the basics of diplomacy to you. They could basically be summed up as 'you will not yell at your superior officer'.

The bad news is that, when you're dealing with people outside our beloved military structure, anyone and everyone you encounter may or may not consider themselves your superiors. And those are the people you're going to need to find common ground with. Diplomacy is a matter of compromise, as well as proposing said compromise in ways that don't sound completely ridiculous to the other party.

Any questions so far?"

strawberryman

2014-10-21, 11:25 AM

A smile that's a bit too toothy, with bit too sharp teeth to boot, spreads over the Arrancar's face as it leans against the bars and looks at Gwynned. "Oh? Whose **** and why?"

"Some noble pricks. Because they're ***holes."

Gwynned continues to lay on her cot, staring at the ceiling.

KnightDisciple

2014-10-21, 11:41 AM

[Court of Pure Souls, Soul Society]
[Setsurou's Personal Room, IntSec Division Headquarters]
[Approximately a week after their initial communication and the incident at the Kotetsu Family's property]

"I see you've been doing your homework.

But I feel confident we needn't concern ourselves with technicalities. I mean, who would they reasonably replace you with if you were still available?

We also need not concern ourselves with prying eyes. I saw to it myself. No one will be able to videotape your pitfalls as a student nor discover what a disastrous professor I happen to be."

His delivery is absolutely deadpan, which may or may not undercut the humor in his comment.

"You're familiar with basic and advanced military protocol. The good news is: because of that, I don't need to explain the basics of diplomacy to you. They could basically be summed up as 'you will not yell at your superior officer'.

The bad news is that, when you're dealing with people outside our beloved military structure, anyone and everyone you encounter may or may not consider themselves your superiors. And those are the people you're going to need to find common ground with. Diplomacy is a matter of compromise, as well as proposing said compromise in ways that don't sound completely ridiculous to the other party.

Any questions so far?"
"The wisdom of the Central 46 is far-reaching. While I feel personally that I am the most qualified candidate at this time, it may also be true there is someone they know of that I do not. I do not wish to become presumptuous upon their decisions or decision-making process."

He clearly doesn't believe what he says about the video. But he does listen attentively as Setsurou continues. When asked if he has questions, he seems to visibly stop to contemplate things before speaking.

"The analogy is clear enough. However, the way in which non-military personnel might consider themselves my superior is less clear. Obviously a member of the Central 46 is a governmental superior. And a doctor or the like could be considered a superior within the narrow context of their fields of expertise. But how would the average member of one of our esteemed Noble Houses hold themselves as a superior, which is to say, effectively a more senior officer? We do not share a chain of command, even indirectly. My understanding is that as a Captain, or even an officer, of the Gotei, my general standing would be considered equal. As a Captain I could be considered roughly on par with most any member of our august Nobility, except perhaps a Head of one of the Four Great Houses.

This does not mean I intend to approach even the "lowest" of our wise Nobility with anything less than absolute respect, but what is confusing is what sort of approach I should be required to take. Do I approach them as a respectful equal due to my position in the Gotei? Or are they still considered the equivalent of a senior officer for the purposes of deferring to their knowledge and decisions?"

His tone is entirely sincere and inquiring, and his face shows only curiosity and a bit of confusion.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-21, 12:13 PM

[Court of Pure Souls, Soul Society]
[Setsurou's Personal Room, IntSec Division Headquarters]
[Approximately a week after their initial communication and the incident at the Kotetsu Family's property]

"The wisdom of the Central 46 is far-reaching. While I feel personally that I am the most qualified candidate at this time, it may also be true there is someone they know of that I do not. I do not wish to become presumptuous upon their decisions or decision-making process."

He clearly doesn't believe what he says about the video. But he does listen attentively as Setsurou continues. When asked if he has questions, he seems to visibly stop to contemplate things before speaking.

"The analogy is clear enough. However, the way in which non-military personnel might consider themselves my superior is less clear. Obviously a member of the Central 46 is a governmental superior. And a doctor or the like could be considered a superior within the narrow context of their fields of expertise. But how would the average member of one of our esteemed Noble Houses hold themselves as a superior, which is to say, effectively a more senior officer? We do not share a chain of command, even indirectly. My understanding is that as a Captain, or even an officer, of the Gotei, my general standing would be considered equal. As a Captain I could be considered roughly on par with most any member of our august Nobility, except perhaps a Head of one of the Four Great Houses.

This does not mean I intend to approach even the "lowest" of our wise Nobility with anything less than absolute respect, but what is confusing is what sort of approach I should be required to take. Do I approach them as a respectful equal due to my position in the Gotei? Or are they still considered the equivalent of a senior officer for the purposes of deferring to their knowledge and decisions?"

His tone is entirely sincere and inquiring, and his face shows only curiosity and a bit of confusion.

"That is precisely the main issue you'll face: there is no clear cut rule one can determine this with. You'll have to evaluate each situation on a case-by-case basis.

Just between you and me, I had to deal with precisely that sort of trouble about a week ago... and it did not go very well, or at least not as well as I wish it had.

Because of the laws of Seireitei proper, we can't outright deny access to the Noble Houses if someone we're dealing with is directly tied to their interests. But we CAN inquire them about the nature of said interests - and, in fact, we should. It is within their right to withhold information just as much, however.

Note that this is only true in the event that our actions generate a direct conflict of interest. A Noble that is not part of Gotei - even the Head of a House - does not have the power to command a Gotei officer, or even an unseated directly. But they can petition our assistance. Some will do the smart thing, and route that request through Central 46.

It is the others you have to level with. Some people respond better to assertiveness, while others react poorly to it. I will instruct you in how to identify each. A baseline of mutual respect must be reached, at which point communication starts. Sometimes people just want reassurance that they're being looked after. Sometimes they want to vent, and you're their target. You can't let either get to you.

First step: identify the trouble the Noble approaches you with. Usually this involves listening and only asking your own questions at the end.

Second step: in the most polite terms, describe your analysis of the best course of action to take.

Third step: if the Noble agrees with you, so much the better. If not, ask him what he wants you to do.

It CAN actually be that simple, believe me."

strawberryman

2014-10-22, 12:55 AM

[Soul Society]
(Phoenix Temple - Discharge)
[Post-Timeskip]

"...Um, really, Kobayashi-san, you are technically well enough to leave, but I think a few more experimental therapies and-"

Momoka looks up from filling in the paperwork for her discharge, giving Saito a piercing look. Not an angry one, just one that unmistakably telegraphed that she was not going to be discussing this matter further. She had rested quite enough; there were things to do outside of the hospital. Of course, she would not be leaving unburdened, the most notable change her stay has wrought is a pair of prescription glasses to compensate for her sub-par vision. The ones she was provided were rather... plain, and boring, so perhaps she could see about contracting a more appropriate pair from an artisan. As well, she has been prescribed several medications for her conditions, mostly centering around her respiratory issues. Yes, the new Logistics and Medicine were much more thorough and equipped than the division Momoka first submitted a physical to. And she saw little harm in catering to their insistence.

Saito tries to put on a stern face in response to Momoka, but wilts somewhat and sighs. "...all right, then, but I think it'd be a good idea to wait a little longer. It's for your own good..."

"Duly noted. Are you going to wheel me all the way out, or may I make use of my legs so unused from your division's doting?" It is of course, teasing in nature, but Momoka's tone is a bit more measured than usual, making it a bit harder to tell. Saito is a bit flustered by this.

"...well, you just... um..." She lets out another frustrated sigh. "...you haven't been anywhere near as difficult as some patients, Kobayashi-san, but you could stand to be a little less... um..." She flounders for words.

"I am plenty grateful, Saito. And do not mistake my comments for spiteful or intentionally thankless. I have appreciated your efforts. I just believe I have done enough resting to get to a point of wellness where I can be of use to the Seireitei, and it is in a time of enough turmoil that I believe I can personally risk not taking a few more days. And on a personal level, I would be glad to be back to my own routine and privacy. It is nothing personal, and I respect your professional opinion. But I am leaving, and that is that." With that, she stands - clad in a basic shihakusho (due to her old things being incinerated due to contact with Izanami) with her zanpaktou in its decorative sheathe - and walks out.

---

Breathing in the free air calmly, Momoka walks some time until she is some ways away from the Phoenix Temple before summoning a Hell Butterfly, and sending a message off to the Acting Commander.

"Greetings, Commander Ishinomori. I should like to discuss the specifics of my pardon, and probation, and the future of my integration in Soul Society's proper forces. As well as a few other considerations. We can meet at your earliest convenience."

With that handled, she continues walking calmly... to nowhere in particular.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-22, 07:26 AM

Frozen_Feet

2014-10-22, 09:10 AM

[Soul Society; IntSec holding cells]

"Some noble pricks. Because they're ***holes."

Gwynned continues to lay on her cot, staring at the ceiling.

"Can't be very noble if they're pricks", the Arrancar quips. "Did they do something to you in particular, or is this just good old universal hatred of authority that seems to plague all young people at some age or another?"

---

[In the Void]

In a week's time, things have calmed significantly in the space between worlds. What few pieces of ground remain there float slowly in wide orbits around each other. On one such boulder, a lone black-clad figure stands and looks at the diminishing rift in space. It's still wide enough to cover the whole "horizon" of its line of sight, but the blue glow has turned dim and it's not very high anymore.

The figure wouldn't pay much attention to it, if not for the fact that someone else seems to be doing so. Spread across the Void are the tentacles and portals Argos uses for its tasks. Though the black-clad figure has not personally met the proto-modsoul, it can recognize its presence and knows it is a cognizant being. It can't figure out what Argos would want from a world that's so dead and empty, so it decides to find out. Creating a pathway for itself, the figure strolls to the nearest stalk and, provided Argos doesn't react to it approaching, strums it like string of a guitar to gain attention.

---

[Soul Society; Gotei Headquarters]

When Ishinomori Koutarou finally decides to grace his appointed office with his presence again, he finds everyone's least favorite Artificial sitting on his desk. "Where on Earth have you been?", Lily asks flatly. "Thousand and one things have happened while you were away. Next time something like this comes up, send a representative. Yurius should bloody well learn to deal with that."

strawberryman

2014-10-22, 02:58 PM

[Soul Society]

(IntSec Holding Cells)

Gwnned scoffs irritably. "Yer tellin' me. Tha resta the world seems ta think they **** gold." She shifts very slightly, unable to get a full range of movement with the bakudou.

"An' tha's nunna yer business."

(Near Phoenix Temple)

Momoka sighs, then chuckles lightly. "I am quite glad you approve. I'm not sure I could live with the thought of wearing glasses if my closest friend did not like them." She really holds no punches, doesn't she?

"I am quite glad to be free of a hospital bed, but it seems I will be maintaining some practices upon their own insistence. ...like so." She takes an inhaler from her pocket, and applies a dose simply before replacing it, taking the rose, and breathing in the more natural aroma with a sigh. She spins the flower slowly between her pointer and thumb as she continues walking, Setsurou likely at her side. "A dose of that before and after strenuous activities, after dealing with irritants, and generally throughout the day as needed. Prescription sun protection for my fair skin... pain medication for migraines caused by my eyes' damaged perception, as well as these..." She taps her glasses. "To improve my vision. Is it not a good thing that I am a scholar before a warrior?" Another sigh as she shakes her head.

"...some feeling has returned to my hands, but it is still... somewhat numb. But that, I fear, is something I may need to live with, if it does not improve. But I would feel worse laying about, and so, here I am. How are things? I heard a few of your division were injured a few days ago dealing with the riots." She tactfully changes the subject!

[Hueco Mundo; Las Noches]
(Tercera District) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xb4R0-Vr-c4)

Over the three days Quidel requested for his conversion, the Tercera district also underwent a radical change, a large chunk of buildings being demolished and the whole lot being essentially wiped clean. Some residents were displaced, but a large degree were just squatters taking advantage of the relatively lax rule due to the former Tercera's demise. By the third day, the demolition is nearly complete, and a man perhaps not great in height, but in stature, walks into the empty dirt and sand, observing it. He is shirtless but wearing the uniform slacks of the arrancar, with dark skin and piercing gray eyes (http://i.imgur.com/D2vYZ98.jpg). His power is subtle, perhaps not recognizable as Espada strength, but it permeates the district like the warmth of an actual sun, as opposed to the false one above.

Quidel Alamilla looks over the emptiness, the spot where the Palacio once stood bare of anything. Though silent, his mind is hard at work, formulating his plan for his inherited domain.

((Anyone interested is free to interact!))

Kuroimaken

2014-10-22, 06:14 PM

[Soul Society; Gotei Headquarters]

When Ishinomori Koutarou finally decides to grace his appointed office with his presence again, he finds everyone's least favorite Artificial sitting on his desk. "Where on Earth have you been?", Lily asks flatly. "Thousand and one things have happened while you were away. Next time something like this comes up, send a representative. Yurius should bloody well learn to deal with that."

"I'm sorry, I wasn't aware I owed a report to you." He notes with a little annoyance. "Hishikawa is our liaison, you know that. But what Yurius had to show me was something important enough to merit my presence. That much I can assure you. You can read all about it once I type in my report - which I will have to submit to Central 46 shortly, I suspect."

[Soul Society]

(Near Phoenix Temple)

Momoka sighs, then chuckles lightly. "I am quite glad you approve. I'm not sure I could live with the thought of wearing glasses if my closest friend did not like them." She really holds no punches, doesn't she?

"I am quite glad to be free of a hospital bed, but it seems I will be maintaining some practices upon their own insistence. ...like so." She takes an inhaler from her pocket, and applies a dose simply before replacing it, taking the rose, and breathing in the more natural aroma with a sigh. She spins the flower slowly between her pointer and thumb as she continues walking, Setsurou likely at her side. "A dose of that before and after strenuous activities, after dealing with irritants, and generally throughout the day as needed. Prescription sun protection for my fair skin... pain medication for migraines caused by my eyes' damaged perception, as well as these..." She taps her glasses. "To improve my vision. Is it not a good thing that I am a scholar before a warrior?" Another sigh as she shakes her head.

"...some feeling has returned to my hands, but it is still... somewhat numb. But that, I fear, is something I may need to live with, if it does not improve. But I would feel worse laying about, and so, here I am. How are things? I heard a few of your division were injured a few days ago dealing with the riots." She tactfully changes the subject!\

At that point, he stops, and reaches to cup her hands between his.

"Seems to me they'll recover in time. Try not to worry so much." His tone is soothing, almost disconcertingly so, but she can tell it is also sincere. "Ugh, that. We apprehended the ringleader. The Koutetsu family actually paid IntSec a visit demanding to see the prisoner. I was this close to telling them to take a hike." Setsurou admits.

"It was no simple riot. More like organized, criminal assault. Revenge on the Koutetsu family. Momoka... they were all from Koutetsu-controlled districts, and most of them were from your former neighborhood.

I really don't want to spoil the mood talking about this. It's a bright day and you're finally discharged from the hospital..."

KnightDisciple

2014-10-22, 07:39 PM

[Court of Pure Souls, Soul Society]
[Setsurou's Personal Room, IntSec Division Headquarters]
[Post-Timeskip]

"That is precisely the main issue you'll face: there is no clear cut rule one can determine this with. You'll have to evaluate each situation on a case-by-case basis.

Just between you and me, I had to deal with precisely that sort of trouble about a week ago... and it did not go very well, or at least not as well as I wish it had.

Because of the laws of Seireitei proper, we can't outright deny access to the Noble Houses if someone we're dealing with is directly tied to their interests. But we CAN inquire them about the nature of said interests - and, in fact, we should. It is within their right to withhold information just as much, however.

Note that this is only true in the event that our actions generate a direct conflict of interest. A Noble that is not part of Gotei - even the Head of a House - does not have the power to command a Gotei officer, or even an unseated directly. But they can petition our assistance. Some will do the smart thing, and route that request through Central 46.

It is the others you have to level with. Some people respond better to assertiveness, while others react poorly to it. I will instruct you in how to identify each. A baseline of mutual respect must be reached, at which point communication starts. Sometimes people just want reassurance that they're being looked after. Sometimes they want to vent, and you're their target. You can't let either get to you.

First step: identify the trouble the Noble approaches you with. Usually this involves listening and only asking your own questions at the end.

Second step: in the most polite terms, describe your analysis of the best course of action to take.

Third step: if the Noble agrees with you, so much the better. If not, ask him what he wants you to do.

It CAN actually be that simple, believe me."
Masaru nodded as Setsurou continued.

"So general communication is always polite and respectful. But we are not necessarily in their command, and they must follow the legal procedures to petition our aid. And access to our spaces is limited to an as-needed basis."

He waited for confirmation of those concepts before pressing foward.

"What if the course of action the Noble desires is illegal, counter to the interests of my Division, or generally disagreeable? Again, we are not under immediate obligation, but it seems good to establish a methodology when there is a potential conflict of methods present."

Kuroimaken

2014-10-22, 07:59 PM

"Generally speaking, it's not outright illegal behavior you should be worried about. It's the kind of action that skirts legality - violating the spirit of a rule rather than necessarily the letter of the law. If a Noble requests something illegal, you should warn them of such. If they insist, you must stop them. No one is above the law. Keep in mind that you might still catch flak for it, though.

Not every instance in which a Noble seeks your aid directly will come out of ill will. You must be open to the possibility that something might require urgent attention. Your best judgement will have to come into play then.

You have the autonomy to deny any request that actively endangers your Division, or that otherwise harms it with no net benefit - as a soldier, risking your life is part of the job, but running suicide missions shouldn't be. But do so politely. Keep in mind that your way of seeing things might not be the one that prevails when the dust settles. The more you stick by the rules, the more you work on the correct path to take in each situation, the least amount of undue criticism you'll catch at the end. And remember that sometimes you just can't win; you'll have to cut your losses and go with the least harmful path."

strawberryman

2014-10-22, 10:34 PM

At that point, he stops, and reaches to cup her hands between his.

[COLOR="#FF0000"]"Seems to me they'll recover in time. Try not to worry so much." His tone is soothing, almost disconcertingly so, but she can tell it is also sincere. "Ugh, that. We apprehended the ringleader. The Koutetsu family actually paid IntSec a visit demanding to see the prisoner. I was this close to telling them to take a hike." Setsurou admits.

"It was no simple riot. More like organized, criminal assault. Revenge on the Koutetsu family. Momoka... they were all from Koutetsu-controlled districts, and most of them were from your former neighborhood.

I really don't want to spoil the mood talking about this. It's a bright day and you're finally discharged from the hospital..."

Momoka does not fight the grip, simply walking along with one hand free, and the other grasped in Setsurou's hand.

She gives Setsurou a flat look that could probably curdle milk as he tries to offhand the conversation. "...if you are not comfortable revealing information, that is fine, but I am soon to be a proper addition to the Seireitei again. It is on all of us to not just brush things aside because they may 'spoil the mood'." Besides, Setsurou may be able to detect that she wants to hear more about this. For some reason.

She sighs, easing up somewhat. "...you and I cannot allow these feelings to get in the way of our professional and more importantly societal responsibilities." She sure does like making excuses and rules about how this should work.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-22, 11:40 PM

Momoka does not fight the grip, simply walking along with one hand free, and the other grasped in Setsurou's hand.

She gives Setsurou a flat look that could probably curdle milk as he tries to offhand the conversation. "...if you are not comfortable revealing information, that is fine, but I am soon to be a proper addition to the Seireitei again. It is on all of us to not just brush things aside because they may 'spoil the mood'." Besides, Setsurou may be able to detect that she wants to hear more about this. For some reason.

She sighs, easing up somewhat. "...you and I cannot allow these feelings to get in the way of our professional and more importantly societal responsibilities." She sure does like making excuses and rules about how this should work.
At least she's not recoiling from physical contact. It's a start.

"Just not used to the idea of on and off the clock just yet, are you?

Look, I didn't come here in my capacity as a Gotei officer today. At least, not unofficially - if anyone asks, that's my excuse, sure, but...

You're going to have to understand that there will be times when I do want our feelings to take precedence. I believe it's for the best - and I'm trying to give you as much space to work with this as you've been asking me to. Our hearts don't factor into our societal responsibilities, sure. The opposite is also true - those selfsame obligations have no business getting in between us.

But... I guess the cat's out of the bag either way, and I'm gonna have to ask you this sooner or later.

Before I do that though, I have something for you."

He fishes into his pockets for something, and places it in Momoka's palm.

...a key...?

strawberryman

2014-10-23, 12:15 AM

Razade

2014-10-23, 01:47 AM

200 Years Ago

Shen Yi walked down the halls of the Seven Springs Forge, gazing out into the clear blue sky that surrounded the heavenly palace. He felt the weight the seven newly created weapons on his back and the weight of thousands of hours over twenty years. It was a once in a life time chance to present the Black Tortoise King with ones work and today was no exception for him. He did his best to curb his enthusiasm as he entered the main forge and basked in the heat of a well run operation. For hundreds of years he was regulated to defending the outskirts of the Seven Springs Forge from a threat that could never break into their realm with only the right to forge and to sleep provided for when he was off duty. This would be his chance to become a full apprentice of the Black Tortoise King and earn a place of respect in the Soul Kings Realm. All work stopped, the shadowed form of the King leaping in the flames cast from the forges that surrounded him.

"I come to present myself, Grand King of the Forge!" he shouted, leaning on a knee and laying out a length of velvet before putting out his seven weapons. A rumble from the Forges signaled the Master's permission for the Black Tortoise King was not a man to waste words. He rose to present each though saved his pride for last for it had been forged from the very sword he had used in his service since he was old enough to hold a blade. It was heavy, the grip made from black wood grown in the exclusive gardens of the Azure Dragon Dowager and inlay with ruby wire woven by his own hand. All of this was topped with a massive hammer head shaped from his own blade and the blades of all who had dared challenge him for his position in the Black Tortoise King's Army. Another rumble sounded from the Forges as their fires burned more intensely than ever before as they cast a ghastly blue light through the room. With that he stood and tossed the other weapons into the pyre. He wouldn't be needing them.

Present Day

Shen woke with a start and a gasp as he sat up in the make shift hospital bed. Several nurses moved to restrain him though as mere spirits they couldn't stop him from rushing to the sink and puking. The upheaval with Soul Society being shunted from the physical plane hadn't done well for the outer holdings of his Family or the people living in it. Hadn't helped when his palace had been ripped in half and a support beam had punctured him through the stomach either. It had then become a mad dash from safe house to safe house as the Gotei and their Urban Renewal projects continued either. One could say Shen Yi the Demon Smith was not having the best of times. "Get out." he ordered, the cowed women fleeing from the room as another violent wave of nausea swept over him. The wound had healed though he longed for the days he could heal such a wound within minutes. But waiting and running was over. The rest of his palace and his men were out there somewhere on the blue sphere below and he detested people taking his things.

So all that was left for him was to find out who had disrupted his little slice of heaven and destroyed so many of his earnings. If he could get to a Senkaimon, he thought, then perhaps he could get the rest of the Family down to where ever the rest of the Palace was they might be able to meet up with the survivors and do some damage control. The Earth was ripe for the taking too, even if the bulk of his Family were just spirits they could take out most humans if the need arose and it wasn't like bullets were going to be a problem for them. It was important to think of new business enterprises even if you were screwed over in the short term. But that'd come later, he had a castle to crash. He needed his hammer.

Frozen_Feet

2014-10-23, 07:49 AM

[Gotei Headquarters]

"I'm sorry, I wasn't aware I owed a report to you." He notes with a little annoyance. "Hishikawa is our liaison, you know that. But what Yurius had to show me was something important enough to merit my presence. That much I can assure you. You can read all about it once I type in my report - which I will have to submit to Central 46 shortly, I suspect."

Lily gives Koutarou an incredulous stare. "If you had a lick of common sense, you'd have taken an adjutant with you to make that report while you were away. If Yurius had a lick of common sense, he'd made a report before you even got there, with copies you could hand around." The artificial creature sighs. "But, I'm sure there's million people in the
queue itching to tell you how much you suck. Just tell me where you put Hei Lin so I can take it back to Masaru."

Kuroimaken

2014-10-23, 09:39 AM

[Soul Society]
(Near Phoenix Temple)

Momoka looks forward again. "...I have not until recently been 'on the clock'. And so, my 'off the clock' time is skewed towards a preference of privacy, given I spent thirty years under watchful eyes, in a tiny cell."

She is silent for the rest of Setsurou's speech, but holds the key up to her scrutiny for a few moments before looking back to him.

"...I do hope this is a key for something physical or at least originally metaphorical. Because I believe I may have to reconsider my opinion of you if it is something as cliche as being a key to your heart."

"Why would I give you a key you already have?" Deadpan Setsurou is deadpan.

"Back when I had to pull my disappearing act, I had someone keep an eye out for trouble that might come your way. Of course, he didn't take into account the possibility you might actually cause said trouble, but that's a whole different topic.

Anyway, back when you were arrested, your house was seized, along with everything inside as evidence. When you were convicted, it was all supposed to have been disposed of, but thanks to that someone's efforts, it all just mysteriously 'vanished' due to 'clerical error'.

This is the key to your new home... along with everything you had before. A place to start a new chapter in life, without having to write from scratch." He looked at her almost apprehensively.

- - - Updated - - -

[Gotei Headquarters]

Lily gives Koutarou an incredulous stare. "If you had a lick of common sense, you'd have taken an adjutant with you to make that report while you were away. If Yurius had a lick of common sense, he'd made a report before you even got there, with copies you could hand around." The artificial creature sighs. "But, I'm sure there's million people in the
queue itching to tell you how much you suck. Just tell me where you put Hei Lin so I can take it back to Masaru."

"Again. I wasn't aware I owed you a report. I brought you on as an advisor, not to snark and pretend to supervise. Perhaps my initial shock at the seat transfer gave you the wrong idea." By this point, she can tell she's actually getting on Koutarou's nerves. A rare thing. Few people actually ever got under his skin... and they were usually not on his side to begin with.

"In fact, that adjutant should have been you. You were nowhere to be found then, either.

...now explain to me why Masaru would need the former Commander's Zanpakutou."

strawberryman

2014-10-23, 11:10 AM

"Why would I give you a key you already have?" Deadpan Setsurou is deadpan.

"Back when I had to pull my disappearing act, I had someone keep an eye out for trouble that might come your way. Of course, he didn't take into account the possibility you might actually cause said trouble, but that's a whole different topic.

Anyway, back when you were arrested, your house was seized, along with everything inside as evidence. When you were convicted, it was all supposed to have been disposed of, but thanks to that someone's efforts, it all just mysteriously 'vanished' due to 'clerical error'.

This is the key to your new home... along with everything you had before. A place to start a new chapter in life, without having to write from scratch." He looked at her almost apprehensively.

Momoka is actually taken aback, and it's even detectable. She fights for words for a few moments before breaking the silence, having stopped in her calm stroll forward to look to Setsurou again.

"...I see. Where... where is it?" There's a pause as she considers what else to say, but for once, she doesn't have anything clever. "I... thank you."

Kuroimaken

2014-10-23, 11:18 AM

That's okay. She doesn't have to say anything.

Setsurou takes the opportunity to lean forward and steal a quick kiss off her lips. Just teasing enough to invite her to kiss back - but not so quick as to feel fleeting, or even childish.

"I'll show you. I picked a nice new home if I do say so myself. Decent amounts of sunlight so you can read your books comfortably during fall and winter. Not too far from the SSi, or my place, for that matter. And it's a nice and quiet neighborhood to boot.

Shall I take you there?"

He bent his knee a little and held her hand aloft a bit.

strawberryman

2014-10-23, 11:46 AM

[Soul Society]
(Near Phoenix Temple)

Momoka once again looks like she wants to say something, but can't muster it up. So she makes do with a simple nod.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-23, 11:54 AM

He's fully aware she would rather not be carried bridal-style. And thanks to the Shakonmaku, air-walking wasn't a possibility at this point.

"Bakudou 37: Soujakubane."

Oh, look, it's a big magic carpet made of Reiatsu.

"Hop on. And don't worry, no one can see us from below."

strawberryman

2014-10-23, 12:29 PM

[Soul Society]
(Near Phoenix Temple)

At the magic carpet bakudou, some of Momoka's wit returns. But only a bit.

"...no singing. Please." Huh. With all her time in prison it might be a surprise she knows that reference. But with that, she sits cross-legged on the ambulatory floor decoration.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-23, 12:35 PM

"The singing only comes later, Momo." Setsurou speaks in mock-hurt.

The trip is quick enough. For one thing, high-altitude flight wouldn't do for Momoka's weakened lungs. The house they arrive at is a simple but elegant thing, painted in neutral tones so as to not draw attention to itself.

It's her home, so Setsurou lets her have a go with the key.

KnightDisciple

2014-10-23, 01:38 PM

[Court of Pure Souls, Soul Society]
[Setsurou's Personal Room, IntSec Division Headquarters]
[Post-Timeskip]

"Generally speaking, it's not outright illegal behavior you should be worried about. It's the kind of action that skirts legality - violating the spirit of a rule rather than necessarily the letter of the law. If a Noble requests something illegal, you should warn them of such. If they insist, you must stop them. No one is above the law. Keep in mind that you might still catch flak for it, though.

Not every instance in which a Noble seeks your aid directly will come out of ill will. You must be open to the possibility that something might require urgent attention. Your best judgement will have to come into play then.

You have the autonomy to deny any request that actively endangers your Division, or that otherwise harms it with no net benefit - as a soldier, risking your life is part of the job, but running suicide missions shouldn't be. But do so politely. Keep in mind that your way of seeing things might not be the one that prevails when the dust settles. The more you stick by the rules, the more you work on the correct path to take in each situation, the least amount of undue criticism you'll catch at the end. And remember that sometimes you just can't win; you'll have to cut your losses and go with the least harmful path."
This time, Masaru simply sits and listen, his eyes narrowed a bit in thought. He's clearly an attentive student.

"I think at this point I want to take some time to go over the laws of Soul Society. Not just the most immediately applicable military regulations that I previously, ah, knew of."

It wasn't so long ago that this calm man was a rowdy troublemaker. But that was an arm and a Bankai ago, not to mention a few years.

"It seems like that's the best way to better understand my position and my legal limits. Not that I intend to test the latter, mind. But if knowledge is its own power and reward, this is an area I've neglected worse than my old level of skill with Kido."

__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ ______________________
[Las Noches, Hueco Mundo]
[Outskirts of Tercera District]
[Post-Timeskip]

[Hueco Mundo; Las Noches]
(Tercera District) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xb4R0-Vr-c4)

Over the three days Quidel requested for his conversion, the Tercera district also underwent a radical change, a large chunk of buildings being demolished and the whole lot being essentially wiped clean. Some residents were displaced, but a large degree were just squatters taking advantage of the relatively lax rule due to the former Tercera's demise. By the third day, the demolition is nearly complete, and a man perhaps not great in height, but in stature, walks into the empty dirt and sand, observing it. He is shirtless but wearing the uniform slacks of the arrancar, with dark skin and piercing gray eyes (http://i.imgur.com/D2vYZ98.jpg). His power is subtle, perhaps not recognizable as Espada strength, but it permeates the district like the warmth of an actual sun, as opposed to the false one above.

Quidel Alamilla looks over the emptiness, the spot where the Palacio once stood bare of anything. Though silent, his mind is hard at work, formulating his plan for his inherited domain.

((Anyone interested is free to interact!))
A large presence lands next to Quidel, the newly-minted Espada knowing within a moment who it was. Their presence had a warmth to it, but it was more like that of a hearty fire, one ready to cook food, heat a sauna...or be stoked to greater heights, to then forge metal.

"I think we did alright work, wouldn't you say? I hope this is what you wanted; hard to reverse all that hard work now!"

The Segunda Espada was relaxed around his new peer. Clearly he felt no fear, but he did exude a certain amount of respect for the new Arrancar. Plus, hey, he helped get the place cleaned up!

Kuroimaken

2014-10-23, 01:52 PM

[Court of Pure Souls, Soul Society]
[Setsurou's Personal Room, IntSec Division Headquarters]
[Post-Timeskip]

This time, Masaru simply sits and listen, his eyes narrowed a bit in thought. He's clearly an attentive student.

"I think at this point I want to take some time to go over the laws of Soul Society. Not just the most immediately applicable military regulations that I previously, ah, knew of."

It wasn't so long ago that this calm man was a rowdy troublemaker. But that was an arm and a Bankai ago, not to mention a few years.

"It seems like that's the best way to better understand my position and my legal limits. Not that I intend to test the latter, mind. But if knowledge is its own power and reward, this is an area I've neglected worse than my old level of skill with Kido."

"You're hardly the only one. Unfortunately, our law system is dated and much too simple to deal with the multitude of situations we're currently presented with. Believe it or not, the mortals were actually some six or eight hundred years' worth ahead of us at least two centuries ago.

You'll have to remember that the laws of Soul Society were written based on the preservation of a desired status. And they were written by nobles, no less. When it comes to the rights of a noble versus the rights of a commoner - if you'll forgive the term - the likelihood of a noble coming out ahead is very, very high, provided said noble isn't an atrocious disgrace to his kind." At this point it almost sounds like he's speaking to himself. "But I digress. The important thing is that no matter what kind of spiel they try to sell you, you have little to fear as long as you remain calm at all times, dismiss any insults thrown your way and speak nothing but the truth in the most polite of terms. I trust you to have some common sense on the matter.

The next we meet, we'll do some actual work on facial recognition studies - we'll check how perceptive you are to subtle clues in body language that will tell you things the other person doesn't mean for you to know. I'm actually expecting quite a lot out of you for that one."

strawberryman

2014-10-23, 03:14 PM

[Soul Society]
(Rukon)

Momoka takes the key, still held tightly in her palm over the carpet ride, and unlocks the door, stepping in. Depending on whoever arranged her articles, it's vaguely possible she could walk in and hardly recognize the place, but of course it would take a nearly godlike attention to detail.

Nonetheless, the bulk of her things include books, and many of her own scrolls on which she wrote poetry upon. Her old house did have a small vegetable garden, so her tools are present, but of course, the garden itself is not. Whether Setsurou or his secret agent made sure there was space to rebuild is a worthy question.

Notably, she is lacking in furniture, having a worn-down table (the kind without chairs, where the occupants sit on the floor), a futon that has probably been replaced due to its state even before Momoka's conviction, and a few dishes (chipped at best) and cooking utensils.

Looking upon all of this, Momoka silently patrols the house before sitting before the table, taking in another dose of her inhaler before staring at the hard oak in silence. These are the types of moments that no one other than Setsurou could elicit from her.

[Hueco Mundo, Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

"...Quite. No, this will do." Quidel turns his hawk-like eyes on Turiel, his expression impassive. "A clean canvas on which I can paint a brilliant masterpiece. The palace shall be the center of this land, but I have plans to turn this barren waste into a fertile paradise. Even if you have managed to create farmable land... it shall not compare." As ever, the ego on this one is staggering. But at least he's putting it to good use!

"...your assistance, of course, will be rewarded. But first... this land must be irrigated, and tilled. And of course, any seeds that this city can supply. I have experience with corn and wheat... but variety is appreciated. As for the palace itself... I should like a great pyramid. Something... grand. Gold, if it can be provided. If not... something that will catch in the light. It can be built upon the bones of the old Tercera's palace." He crosses his arms in thought, looking back over the empty space.

Draken

2014-10-23, 05:00 PM

[The Void]

As the Sin Rostro touches the stalk, it tenses and a tangle of similar limbs rises from the distance, coming to a stop in front of the creature with a focused mass of eyes and clawed tendrils in imitation of hands.

No visible mouth, but it does have a small electronic pad. Held up with a few words written.

"Who are you?"

Kuroimaken

2014-10-23, 05:41 PM

[Soul Society]
(Rukon)

Momoka takes the key, still held tightly in her palm over the carpet ride, and unlocks the door, stepping in. Depending on whoever arranged her articles, it's vaguely possible she could walk in and hardly recognize the place, but of course it would take a nearly godlike attention to detail.

Nonetheless, the bulk of her things include books, and many of her own scrolls on which she wrote poetry upon. Her old house did have a small vegetable garden, so her tools are present, but of course, the garden itself is not. Whether Setsurou or his secret agent made sure there was space to rebuild is a worthy question.

Nonetheless, she is lacking in furniture, having a worn-down table (the kind without chairs, where the occupants sit on the floor), a futon that has probably been replaced due to its state even before Momoka's conviction, and a few dishes (chipped at best) and cooking utensils.

Looking upon all of this, Momoka silently patrols the house before sitting before the table, taking in another dose of her inhaler before staring at the hard oak in silence. These are the types of moments that no one other than Setsurou could elicit from her.

Were Setsurou the one to have organized it, there was a good chance she might instantly see the place as home. That wasn't the case, however. Things had been fairly meticulously organized otherwise, even if her books and scrolls gained no further categorization than, respectively, books and scrolls - yet they had all been handled with great care.

The onmitsu did, however, find the house on her behalf. But he won't show her the garden just yet. Instead, he sits quietly besides Momoka. If she has any words for him, he won't coax them out. If she has gestures she wishes to employ, she is free to do so.

If he senses insecurity, he will take the first step. If she cries, he will comfort her.

That is what one does for those one loves.

strawberryman

2014-10-23, 06:18 PM

[Soul Society]
(Rukon)

Momoka looks over to Setsurou quietly after taking things in. She is not crying, she is not even truly troubled. Her facade is gone, and where there is usually guarded caution disguised as calm, there is actual serenity. Perhaps not happiness, but there is a sense of clarity into her emotions that Setsurou cannot usually recognize. And... for once, after taking off her glasses and setting them on the table, she leans in to him, her hand locking with his even as her lips do the same.

She may not be as openly passionate or warm as Setsurou, but there is a small spark as she kisses him, before she draws away, a pink tinge that would otherwise be barely notable for a normal-skinned person standing out on her like a flashlight in a dark room. One hand still locked, she uses the other to replace her glasses, speaking quietly.

"...thank you."

After a deep breath, however, her armor has reconstructed itself, and she looks on Setsurou again with her usual defensive calm.

"...do I have space to take up one of my long-lost hobbies?"

She's clearly referring to space for a garden.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-23, 06:39 PM

That's alright. Being passionate is his own mark - were we not forced onto a facade everyday, he would probably be much more emotional on a daily basis.

Both her gestures are reciprocated in full, with a hint of delicacy as he looks into her eyes.

"Don't mention it. I want you to be happy.

And yes. There is."

He stands up, still holding her hand, and guides her out the back. There's a tall enough fence for privacy, and plenty of space. It is all virgin ground so far; she'll have to do the work from scratch.

But Setsurou has one last surprise for her.

"Unfortunately, the agent couldn't do anything for your previous garden. I did, however, swing by your old home. Many of the plants were dead, but I took these from the ones that survived."

He hands her a small bag filled with different kinds of seeds, all separate in their own smaller bags.

"Even the smallest, most fragile things can survive through love."

KnightDisciple

2014-10-23, 07:58 PM

[Court of Pure Souls, Soul Society]
[Setsurou's Personal Room, IntSec Division Headquarters]
[Post-Timeskip]

"You're hardly the only one. Unfortunately, our law system is dated and much too simple to deal with the multitude of situations we're currently presented with. Believe it or not, the mortals were actually some six or eight hundred years' worth ahead of us at least two centuries ago.

You'll have to remember that the laws of Soul Society were written based on the preservation of a desired status. And they were written by nobles, no less. When it comes to the rights of a noble versus the rights of a commoner - if you'll forgive the term - the likelihood of a noble coming out ahead is very, very high, provided said noble isn't an atrocious disgrace to his kind." At this point it almost sounds like he's speaking to himself. "But I digress. The important thing is that no matter what kind of spiel they try to sell you, you have little to fear as long as you remain calm at all times, dismiss any insults thrown your way and speak nothing but the truth in the most polite of terms. I trust you to have some common sense on the matter.

The next we meet, we'll do some actual work on facial recognition studies - we'll check how perceptive you are to subtle clues in body language that will tell you things the other person doesn't mean for you to know. I'm actually expecting quite a lot out of you for that one."
Masaru nods with a slight smile.

"I do find it interesting, informative, and occasionally revelatory to study the ideas, tactics, and so on of Mortals. And it is also good to know exactly where the law stands with regards to social class."

There's a bit of narrowing to his eyes, but his voice is still unfailingly polite. It's clear he doesn't believe he's safe from prying eyes that would instigate another "shadow war" against his Division for daring to not speak the highest praise of a Noble family.

In short, Masaru does not fully trust Setsurou, or indeed much of anyone outside his Division, right now.

"This lesson has been extremely insightful, though I fear I will take time to incorporate its lessons into my day to day life.

And I look forward to the body language lessons. Perhaps I can apply them in reverse, as well."

Likely meaning to mask his own semi-conscious body language. So that people can't tell he doesn't trust them or others, for instance.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Las Noches, Hueco Mundo]
[Outskirts of Tercera District]
[Post-Timeskip]

[Hueco Mundo, Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

"...Quite. No, this will do." Quidel turns his hawk-like eyes on Turiel, his expression impassive. "A clean canvas on which I can paint a brilliant masterpiece. The palace shall be the center of this land, but I have plans to turn this barren waste into a fertile paradise. Even if you have managed to create farmable land... it shall not compare." As ever, the ego on this one is staggering. But at least he's putting it to good use!

"...your assistance, of course, will be rewarded. But first... this land must be irrigated, and tilled. And of course, any seeds that this city can supply. I have experience with corn and wheat... but variety is appreciated. As for the palace itself... I should like a great pyramid. Something... grand. Gold, if it can be provided. If not... something that will catch in the light. It can be built upon the bones of the old Tercera's palace." He crosses his arms in thought, looking back over the empty space.
Turiel gave a non-committal grunt.

"You want any help with setup? I've got boys and girls who can help make tools and plows and whatnot. We don't have seeds ourselves, but I can put the word out.

Gold's easier, though I hope you mean to plate your pyramid. It's a terrible building material. You want yourself some stone. Probably granite or marble, if we can help it."

In this matter he speaks with an air of authority. Considering the things Turiel's domain suggests he specializes in, Quidel can infer he is by no means "blowing smoke" on the matter.

"Could try mixing in some brass and bronze, too. I've got some special mixes that don't tarnish easy, and a few laquers we could apply to make polishing the pyramid a quarterly chore instead of a daily one."

He gives a slightly immature-sounding snicker.

"Heh. Polishing the pyramid."

Composure returns swiftly.

"I know some good architects, I'll hook you up. As for my reward, well. Other than having me over for dinner one day, we'll just put an "I owe you" pin in that, hm?"

The big one is cannier than he looks.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-23, 08:51 PM

[Court of Pure Souls, Soul Society]
[Setsurou's Personal Room, IntSec Division Headquarters]
[Post-Timeskip]

Masaru nods with a slight smile.

"I do find it interesting, informative, and occasionally revelatory to study the ideas, tactics, and so on of Mortals. And it is also good to know exactly where the law stands with regards to social class."

There's a bit of narrowing to his eyes, but his voice is still unfailingly polite. It's clear he doesn't believe he's safe from prying eyes that would instigate another "shadow war" against his Division for daring to not speak the highest praise of a Noble family.

In short, Masaru does not fully trust Setsurou, or indeed much of anyone outside his Division, right now.

"This lesson has been extremely insightful, though I fear I will take time to incorporate its lessons into my day to day life.

And I look forward to the body language lessons. Perhaps I can apply them in reverse, as well."

Likely meaning to mask his own semi-conscious body language. So that people can't tell he doesn't trust them or others, for instance.

"Anyone sufficiently trained will know how to spot your concealment of said body language, even as it becomes second nature, so do not rely on it too much.

As a noble myself, I can understand your reluctance. It serves you well, actually. I would be having second thoughts about company that taught me to deceive my peers, even if for their own benefit.

Just keep in mind, Masaru, that if I had the intent of actually tricking you, I would make it a point to cast suspicion away from myself in much more sophisticated ways. As a swordsman, I'm sure you more than anyone can appreciate not underestimating an opponent.

I would not be extending to teach you if I did not trust you, either. So you should know, even if the feeling's not yet mutual, that I trust you."

Everything about how he says this is terribly disconcerting in its brutal honesty. A lesson in itself, perhaps?

strawberryman

2014-10-23, 10:15 PM

[Soul Society]
(Engineering - Chouko's Lab)

Chouko looks up from working on something magical terrifying wonderful awesome, flipping up her welding mask and knitting her brow thoughtfully.

"Someone... somewhere... just made a double enten-drizzle."

She pauses, almost as if trying to feel it out. But gets nothing, shrugs, flips her mask down and goes back to work.

(Rukon - Momoka's House)

Momoka looks upon the bare earth with a wane smile. No, she certainly wouldn't mind working it herself. It brought back fond memories. She takes the seed bags in her hands delicately, closing her eyes and breathing slowly.

"...I'm afraid I can't think nothing of this. It is... a much-needed escape, and one appropriate to my sensibilities. So again... thank you. And be sure to pass my gratitude onto the one who watched over me for you, as well." With a squeeze, she slips out of Setsurou's grasp, walking back into the house to arrange the seeds in a old straw basket with her other gardening supplies. Before long she returns to the small back porch, looking to Setsurou with that small smile still upon her lips.

"...I am awaiting correspondence from the acting Commander, so I do not know how much time I still have. I need to speak with him on my pardon, and other matters of importance." Her look turns more thoughtful for a moment. "...I have a personal connection with the SSI, but I must admit... in the wake of Sawada's actions, and the lack of leadership in the division... it makes me wonder if I should step to the forefront." Idly, she slips to her usual sitting position, her legs folded and arms resting on each leg, palms turned upward.

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

Quidel nods at the mention of tools and plating the pyramid with gold. "...yes, of course." He is silent as Turiel exhibits his knowledge and connections, still keeping impassive. When it comes to mention of a reward, he speaks up calmly.

"As a start, your district can be given the first shipments of our harvests, if you so choose. The rest will be exported at need. I have full intention to share in my bounty, for to do so is to invite others to offer their riches. And so, we can all bask in light and radiance." Poetic, this one. But somewhat haughty nature aside, at least he intends to do well for the entire city. It seems he's quite confident in his ability as a "Sun God" to provide an above-average product in the desert city...

"Whatever else you ask of me, I will hold in high regard. I do not kindly take debts upon myself without doing my best to repay them."

Razade

2014-10-23, 10:17 PM

The rest of the Yi Family was going ballistic in preparations. Shen's words had spread through the remaining camp like wildfire and the knowledge that their Boss was alive and moving seemed to restore some of their vigor and enthusiasm. It pleased him to see all his men (figuratively speaking) even if the nurses and doctors followed him with their insistent pleas to lay back down and take it easy. He was always uncomfortable without his zankaputo nearby and it had been kept out of reach while he was recovering from his wounds. Other members ran by reporting the condition of the camp but it didn't mean much to him. They were unlikely to be returning to the smaller Soul Society any time soon and all the assets they had hold of could easily be funneled back into the Rukon while they traveled. "Look alive!" he finally shouted as the whirlwind of movement and shouting went silent in an instant. "If it ain't bolted down throw it in a sack and lets go. Anything else you leave behind. We're burning camp!" he shouted louder with a gesture from his hammer. "Make your last amends to the Soul King and Hell brothers and sisters! Tonight we move to the Walls!" The silence was so thick after that a knife could have cut through it but it was short lived as the entire camp erupted in cheers. The rag tag band of criminals and exiled Shinigami wasn't much to look at at the best of times but with easily half their number who knows where and wounded in many places they didn't cut the most intimidating picture. None of that mattered to Shen the Demon Smith, the rest of his family was in danger and he'd sacrifice everyone in the camp to get them back to safety. Time and people were money after all, and you had to spend lives to save lives. "You have ten minutes! Tell everyone, the Yi Family is moving!" he shouted over the ruckus, moving to prepare himself as well.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-24, 12:46 AM

(Rukon - Momoka's House)

Momoka looks upon the bare earth with a wane smile. No, she certainly wouldn't mind working it herself. It brought back fond memories. She takes the seed bags in her hands delicately, closing her eyes and breathing slowly.

"...I'm afraid I can't think nothing of this. It is... a much-needed escape, and one appropriate to my sensibilities. So again... thank you. And be sure to pass my gratitude onto the one who watched over me for you, as well." With a squeeze, she slips out of Setsurou's grasp, walking back into the house to arrange the seeds in a old straw basket with her other gardening supplies. Before long she returns to the small back porch, looking to Setsurou with that small smile still upon her lips.

"...I am awaiting correspondence from the acting Commander, so I do not know how much time I still have. I need to speak with him on my pardon, and other matters of importance." Her look turns more thoughtful for a moment. "...I have a personal connection with the SSI, but I must admit... in the wake of Sawada's actions, and the lack of leadership in the division... it makes me wonder if I should step to the forefront." Idly, she slips to her usual sitting position, her legs folded and arms resting on each leg, palms turned upward.

"I got my thanks in that smile of yours. As for my man, he was well rewarded for his work. But I'll pass it along."

Once again he takes his place besides her. Setsurou cuts a bit of a tall figure besides Momoka, so when he reaches to embrace her shoulder, there's still plenty of room.

"You're afraid they're going to ask you to step up and fill the void." Sometimes stating the obvious doesn't hurt. "You can always refuse a promotion, you know. I'm sure it wouldn't be the first time someone didn't want to take up that burden. Although, the SSI's numbers have become a lot smaller since we split off part of the division into Engineering, if it helps any.

And being in a higher position of authority does give you a certain level of autonomy. You can always delegate the bossiness to someone else who actually enjoys it. I mean... how do you think I do it?"

KnightDisciple

2014-10-24, 01:36 AM

[Court of Pure Souls, Soul Society]
[Setsurou's Personal Room, IntSec Division Headquarters]
[Post-Timeskip]

"Anyone sufficiently trained will know how to spot your concealment of said body language, even as it becomes second nature, so do not rely on it too much.

As a noble myself, I can understand your reluctance. It serves you well, actually. I would be having second thoughts about company that taught me to deceive my peers, even if for their own benefit.

Just keep in mind, Masaru, that if I had the intent of actually tricking you, I would make it a point to cast suspicion away from myself in much more sophisticated ways. As a swordsman, I'm sure you more than anyone can appreciate not underestimating an opponent.

I would not be extending to teach you if I did not trust you, either. So you should know, even if the feeling's not yet mutual, that I trust you."

Everything about how he says this is terribly disconcerting in its brutal honesty. A lesson in itself, perhaps?
Masaru is still for several long moments after Setsurou finishes. Finally, he speaks quietly.

"You have done nothing to specifically earn distrust, Setsurou-sensei. But at this time, I find myself questioning motives, possible reactions, who I could trust, and what actually constitutes privacy in the Seireitei, and indeed in Soul Society.

Please understand it has not been my intention to offer any offense to you and yours, and I do sincerely appreciate our time now and in the future. I believe I shall take my leave now."

With that, Masaru stands. Unless stopped, he will offer a deeper bow than before and exit the room and, soon enough, IntSec HQ altogether.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Las Noches, Hueco Mundo]
[Outskirts of Tercera District]
[Post-Timeskip]

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

Quidel nods at the mention of tools and plating the pyramid with gold. "...yes, of course." He is silent as Turiel exhibits his knowledge and connections, still keeping impassive. When it comes to mention of a reward, he speaks up calmly.

"As a start, your district can be given the first shipments of our harvests, if you so choose. The rest will be exported at need. I have full intention to share in my bounty, for to do so is to invite others to offer their riches. And so, we can all bask in light and radiance." Poetic, this one. But somewhat haughty nature aside, at least he intends to do well for the entire city. It seems he's quite confident in his ability as a "Sun God" to provide an above-average product in the desert city...

"Whatever else you ask of me, I will hold in high regard. I do not kindly take debts upon myself without doing my best to repay them."
Turiel nods and smiles.

"Hey, don't sweat the construction thing. Metal and stone are what I live and breath, just about. I wouldn't know the first thing about plants except "they grow in the ground". And first pick on food sounds pretty solid. I'll have to think of the rest soon enough. Wouldn't want to leave that hanging too long."

Canny indeed, but also observant enough to note that Quidel isn't the sort you try collecting too many big favors on too quickly.

"Also, yeah, I like your thoughts on getting everyone working together. I think if more of us Espada try for it, instead of just Jehoel, it'll push everyone else to as well."

Frozen_Feet

2014-10-24, 08:32 AM

[Gotei HQ]

"Again. I wasn't aware I owed you a report. I brought you on as an advisor, not to snark and pretend to supervise. Perhaps my initial shock at the seat transfer gave you the wrong idea." By this point, she can tell she's actually getting on Koutarou's nerves. A rare thing. Few people actually ever got under his skin... and they were usually not on his side to begin with.

"In fact, that adjutant should have been you. You were nowhere to be found then, either.

...now explain to me why Masaru would need the former Commander's Zanpakutou."

Lily rolls its mismatched eyes. "That's a paper-thin defense and you know it. I'm not the only person in this city who can hold a pen in one hand and paper in the other. Nevermind that you didn't exactly come looking for me. Or even wait for me to get here." It jumps off the desk and places its hands behind its back. "I'm going to take it back to him, because it was given to his care. And I want him to understand why before he does something ill-adviced and humiliating. Again."

---

[The Void]
As the Sin Rostro touches the stalk, it tenses and a tangle of similar limbs rises from the distance, coming to a stop in front of the creature with a focused mass of eyes and clawed tendrils in imitation of hands.

No visible mouth, but it does have a small electronic pad. Held up with a few words written.

"Who are you?"

"An iPad instead of sign language. Someone's been teaching you new tricks", the Arrancar notes. "We're just passing by. Our names have long since ceased to have relevance. We're just curious of what you're seeking in that blue-glowing emptiness?" It points to the direction of the giant rift.

Argos's enhanced sensory organs, if it bothers to use them, can tell the creature before it is most unusual. While its elemental composition is comparable to Menos, it contains distinct genetic sequences of over a hundred beings... and some force has, from them, created its body by switching invidual genes on and off. The complexity easily rivals efforts of the proto-modsoul's King, though the King would likely never bother with such ridiculous amount of redundancy. But the spiritual body seems to be just an outer layer, with something even stranger hiding underneath. While the creature is utilizing a bare minimum of spiritual energy, Reiraku created by its presence have blue strands among the more familiar red and white strands.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-24, 08:54 AM

[Gotei HQ]

Lily rolls its mismatched eyes. "That's a paper-thin defense and you know it. I'm not the only person in this city who can hold a pen in one hand and paper in the other. Nevermind that you didn't exactly come looking for me. Or even wait for me to get here." It jumps off the desk and places its hands behind its back. "I'm going to take it back to him, because it was given to his care. And I want him to understand why before he does something ill-adviced and humiliating. Again."

"Fine. Then let's set some ground rules right now.

You may note your displeasure or disagreement with how I do things. You don't get to mock me or second-guess me. You may advise me, but you will cease to pretend you're the only one who knows what she's doing, or I'm going to remove that soul candy from your body faster than you say 'sorry'.

Now. Explain exactly what you are talking about regarding Hei Lin."

________________________

[Setsurou's office]

"I'm not that easily offended, Masaru-san. I just wanted to put you at ease.

I made it a point to create a few surveillance blind spots for several reasons. One of which being recent events.

In any case, take care and have a good day."

Frozen_Feet

2014-10-24, 12:18 PM

Draken

2014-10-24, 12:34 PM

[Gotei HQ]

"An iPad instead of sign language. Someone's been teaching you new tricks", the Arrancar notes. "We're just passing by. Our names have long since ceased to have relevance. We're just curious of what you're seeking in that blue-glowing emptiness?" It points to the direction of the giant rift.

Argos's enhanced sensory organs, if it bothers to use them, can tell the creature before it is most unusual. While its elemental composition is comparable to Menos, it contains distinct genetic sequences of over a hundred beings... and some force has, from them, created its body by switching invidual genes on and off. The complexity easily rivals efforts of the proto-modsoul's King, though the King would likely never bother with such ridiculous amount of redundancy. But the spiritual body seems to be just an outer layer, with something even stranger hiding underneath. While the creature is utilizing a bare minimum of spiritual energy, Reiraku created by its presence have blue strands among the more familiar red and white strands.

Argos shifts around slightly, rotating on himself.

"It is convenient in many ways."

"We are observing in case it does anything. Do you know what it is?"

Frozen_Feet

2014-10-24, 12:40 PM

strawberryman

2014-10-24, 12:44 PM

Kuroimaken

2014-10-24, 02:45 PM

[Soul Society]
(Rukon - Momoka's House)

"I am one of the most knowledgeable kido experts still remaining, and past my complicated history... I find it likely that it would be offered or recommended. Certainly if no other steps up." Momoka closes her eyes calmly.

"This realm is worth protecting. But it is also worth improving. I wholeheartedly believe that Soul Society moving was a good thing. That, if the leader of the Arrancar truly desires peace and understanding... then we should look past our age-old biases and give it to them. That we can transcend past the age of petty bickering and brutal war onto an age where things are at least deserving of a fraction of the concept of heaven. And if I need to do my part from a seat of power... then so be it. It is outside my comfort zone, but I believe wholeheartedly in making this place and its people better." She says this with a level tone, and utter sincerity. "...there is still much work to do, however."

She opens her eyes again, turning to Setsurou with a wry smile. "...and of course I would count on you to delegate your responsibilities as a captain." Ouch! Would you like some ice for that burn?

"I'm actually of a similar mind. Jehoel is... a complex man. I am still a touch unsure what drives him, but I can say with some confidence he's incapable of treachery. He DOES have some desire to build something lasting and he IS genuinely happy his efforts are bearing fruit. I just hope he can inspire that desire in enough of his people that, if he leaves, it won't all fall apart.

I intend to do my part to help with that. It's something that suits me better than playing constable. And I'll be there to help you make Soul Society a little more like 'Paradise'.

I never actually wanted the job, and you know it. But... between family tradition and my exploits... Well, I guess I wouldn't have ended up any other way. There's only so much I can play the fool.

...but dear mercy, the daily grind of that office is a massacre. I'm still trying to figure out a way to get Hideki to cut out the creepy stalker act and hand surveillance to my division - we're better at information processing, but we can't maintain the equipment adequately. " There's a really, really deep sigh, metaphorically killing a few trees.

"Speaking of, there's something I really need to ask you." Seems the time for pleasantries is mostly over.

strawberryman

2014-10-24, 02:51 PM

[Soul Society]
(Rukon - Momoka's House)

"...nothing is stopping you from asking, then." Momoka's tone is somewhat playful, but obviously cognizant of the fact that it might be a serious matter indeed. She really has nothing else to say until he asks whatever is on his mind.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-24, 02:54 PM

[Gotei Headquarters]

"You can ask that from Masaru once I'm done 'mocking' and 'second-guessing' him", comes a sour reply. "It's vital to Masaru, not to state security. Unlike some other things waiting for your attention. Seriously. Just tell me where it is."

"As opposed to... you telling me right now. When you have said yourself I have other things I need to be doing.

You have a weird set of priorities."

Koutarou reaches for a sheet of paper and a pen. He scribes VERY quickly... and then folds up the paper in his hand.

"You can have this as soon as you brief me on what I'm supposed to be looking at, and/or you tell me what's got you in such a hurry to deliver the sword to Masaru. You have my word." He places the paper onto his desk, but his hand remains on top of it.

- - - Updated - - -

[Soul Society]
(Rukon - Momoka's House)

"...nothing is stopping you from asking, then." Momoka's tone is somewhat playful, but obviously cognizant of the fact that it might be a serious matter indeed. She really has nothing else to say until he asks whatever is on his mind.

"Oh, this is going to suck so much." He admits to himself. And reaches into his pocket for a handful of photographies.

...damn, that's a big pocket.

"Do you recognize any of these people?"

The pictures are of his current prisoners.

strawberryman

2014-10-24, 03:29 PM

[Soul Society]
(Rukon - Momoka's House)

Momoka looks over the photographs calmly and without pause, not even on Gwynned. It is clear the gears are ticking for a few moments... then, she points a few of the as-of-yet-nameless-and-unlikely-to-be-named NPCs.

"...I did not know them overly well, but these are people who my adoptive father knew, and who were regular fixtures in the community." Then, she pauses over Gwynned. "...and she is one of the other children he took under his roof." Well, at least she's being cooperative. But really, not doing so would just make it look that much more suspicious when certain facts came to light.

"...I helped teach her japanese. Otherwise... our communications were rather simple. I did not have a strong grasp on english." Given the Rukon is in fact multicultural, it was not uncommon for residents to pick up multiple languages. Especially intelligent ones like Momoka.

"...will there be any issues with that?" She is calm, and Setsurou has yet to detect any deception from her, slight or great.

Frozen_Feet

2014-10-24, 03:38 PM

[Gotei HQ]

Lily grabs a paper from Koutarou's desk and practically shoves it to his face. "Read."

It's a bullet-point list, with each line ending in a two-dimensional barcode. By aiming his Reiphone's screen at the things, Koutarou can immediately access the relevant computer files. Some clever SSI member probably reverse-engingeered that from mortal phones.

The list is topped by mentions of civil unrest and terrorists actions in the Rukon, caused by all those low-lives from the now-absent outer rings now having to share space with law-abiding citizens. Immediately below it is told that Koutetsu family holdings have been attacked. The attackers have been apprehended and are stored in IntSec holding cells until their sentences have been passed. They will almost certainly face life-long imprisonment and possibly execution, and Azuma Koutetsu has requested they be moved to his custody.

There's has also been sightings of unusual... weather in the Void. Apparently what was left behind of Soul Society was spilled there and parts of it have fallen to Earth and, possibly, Hueco Mundo. There's a report on a tremendous meteor impact above East Russia, striking one of the absent Rukon districts that fell there. Even more bizarrely, a survivor of said impact has been trying to contact Gotei by writing giant ice letters on the ground and air.

There's rumors of one of the Espada being replaced. No confirmation of which one or who from Las Noches yet.

There's a message from Kobayashi Momoka, asking for attendance.

An officer of the Reservoir division and member of the Yoshida noble family, Yoshida Kaoru, has been reprimanded for letting in an Arrancar of unknown powers, name, status and affliation. The computer file includes and eeriely familiar-looking picture. Has Koutarou seen this being just a while ago? Apparently, the Arrancar too is kept in holding for at least one day before being kicked out. There's some mumbo-jumbo of somehow making it work for Gotei.

Oh, and the Central 46 wants to interview each of Hiraku Masaru, Kobayashi Momoka and Ishinomori Koutarou, invidually, in order, in roughly eight days. Totally no pressure though. It says they'll get in contact when they have time.

An interesting detail about the list is that it's handwritten. Yes, even the barcodes. But that probably gets overlooked.

There are several more such lists on the table, as well as some of the original documents from which they were compiled.

Draken

2014-10-24, 03:52 PM

"Not really. We know that Heaven and a mad goddess used to reside there. But now, they're both gone, we suppose. To us, it is just a bubble of empty space drifting through the Void untill it inevitably collapses on itself and ceases to be."

Argos shifts mildly in place. Blinking several times and turn spinning once again.

"There is an open way there, but that is not her body. Just a passage in the Nether. They are everywhere."

Another shift.

"We are more concerned with the energy surge, which you share. What is the origin of that?"

"Who is your maker?"

KnightDisciple

2014-10-24, 03:53 PM

[Court of Pure Souls, Soul Society]
[Setsurou's Personal Room, IntSec Division Headquarters]

[Setsurou's office]

"I'm not that easily offended, Masaru-san. I just wanted to put you at ease.

I made it a point to create a few surveillance blind spots for several reasons. One of which being recent events.

In any case, take care and have a good day."
Masaru stops hesitantly at the door to the office. He seems almost like he is going to say something....but ultimately he just gives Setsurou a respectful nod and leaves.
--------------------------------------------------------
[Receiving Area, Acting Captain Masaru's Office, Combat Division]

[Combat Division; at Masaru's office]

There's an elderly man sitting infront of Masaru's office door, drinking tea from a thermos while waiting for Masaru to return there. Unlike other people around, his kosode is crimson instead of black, and its back has two nested octagons on it. Bulk & Skull have asked the man several times by now whether they should just call Masaru, but each time the reply has been "It's okay, I can wait." And seeing that he's brought his own lunch and breakfast, he seems prepared to wait for a long time.
Masaru pulls up short at the sight of the old man. He glances at his subordinates, giving them clear hand signals to leave for the time being. After that, Masaru takes a few more steps forward before offering the older man a deep bow.

"Honored Elder, I do not believe we have had the pleasure of being introduced to each other. May I inquire of you first your name, and second what brings you to my humble area of responsibility?"

Formal, polite, calm. Setsurou's advice had taken hold, and Masaru was playing this one very carefully.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Las Noches, Hueco Mundo]
[Outskirts of Tercera District]

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

"Indeed." Quidel folds his arms.

"...perhaps it is time for me to walk the streets and speak with the denizens of this domain, to find followers, or at the least, workers. I do not know architecture, and so I trust your expertise and that of those you know."
"You want me to go with, or just cruise on your own?"

Razade

2014-10-24, 03:58 PM

It's a wonder what one can accomplish when you've got a time limit and it's ticking down your neck like the hangman's noose. The feeble camp had been broken down, the remaining Family Members packed in what served as an official uniform for the Family. Weapons were stashed where they could and camp fires had been ashed. Shen Yi too had not dawdled, dressing in the uniform he once wore long ago in the ancient halls of the Soul King with his long black hair pulled back into a tight pony tail. The high collared robes and long sleeves wouldn't serve well if combat arose, and it was likely to do so, though as far as defensive garments one couldn't ask for a better set of threads. The Azure Dragon Dowager had seen to that. Even his zanpakuto had been sealed, a thick bangle about his wrist that could be easily accessed and concealed in the nearly floor length sleeves. But the Family wouldn't move as long as he remained in camp and there was little time to lose after the long recuperation.

With a whistle the camp stood at attention, what was once a mass of hungry and starving bodies had been turned into the feared Yi Family, an organization that had cowed or killed any of the other Crime Lords in the Rukon and kept the Gotei at arms length as well. Haggard and hungry they still cut a stunning sight and that was exactly what he desired. The more noise they made the easier it would be to lull the Gotei from their Gates and appeal to their sense of Justice. After all, he would offer them the chance of a life time for with the Yi Family gone from Soul Society it would only be a matter of time that the other Crime Families would be taken out and their precious control could be over the entire Rukon. Not that it mattered to him, new prospects were open and ready so long as he could eek out even a single capitulation from the Guard. And it was for this the Yi Family marched through the Rukon with their remaining strength with songs on their lips and a din about them that made certain all in the Districts would know. The Yi Family had gathered and it was all but clear that their goal were the Walls of the Gotei's stronghold with the head of the serpent right out in front. Those who dared stand in their way would be struck down without mercy until they reached it.

Frozen_Feet

2014-10-24, 04:14 PM

[Combat Division; at Masaru's office]

The elderly man hurries to put away his thermos, mildly surprised by Masaru's demeanor. "Bhattacharya Jaswinder. It is a pleasure to meet you." He stands up and bows in response. "I'm a messenger of the Central 46. They request your presence at the compound building. If you have two hours of time, we can leave immediately. If not, I can wait until such time can be arranged. I understand these are chaotic times and something horrible might happen any moment."

Like, say, a crime family coming to knock Seiretei's gates...

strawberryman

2014-10-24, 05:01 PM

[Las Noches]
(Tercera District)

Quidel shakes his head. "I shall go alone. I should like to see the citizenry without them being intimidated by two among our number. One such as I should be intimidating enough." With that, be bows slightly, then walks off for the remaining buildings.

To be fair, even as a new espada, he can probably handle himself.

[Soul Society]
(Engineering HQ - Chouko's Lab)

Chouko looks up again as a warning blares through her commlink visor.

"...my time to warn the peeps, I guess. S***." She sits back from what looks like another pair of mechanical limbs, putting her welding mask aside, and opening a communique with Hideki, as well as the main intercom system of the Gotei.

"Yo, we got creepers on the way to the gate. Looks like the neighbors are steppin' up the... s***, I'm in the middle of somethin', so no class metaphors today. Guys incomin'. Got a big siege weapon. Look like they're ready to start some s***. Handle it, yo. Takenaka out." With that, she puts her mask on and gets back to work.

(Rukon - Momoka's House)

As Momoka pauses for a response from Setsurou, he doesn't get a chance before she turns her head, brow furrowed.

"...do you hear that?" For convenience's sake, we can say that the large rabble the Yi family is causing is somewhere near the house.

KnightDisciple

2014-10-24, 05:33 PM

[Court of Pure Souls, Soul Society]
[Receiving Area, Acting Captain Masaru's Office, Combat Division]

[Combat Division; at Masaru's office]

The elderly man hurries to put away his thermos, mildly surprised by Masaru's demeanor. "Bhattacharya Jaswinder. It is a pleasure to meet you." He stands up and bows in response. "I'm a messenger of the Central 46. They request your presence at the compound building. If you have two hours of time, we can leave immediately. If not, I can wait until such time can be arranged. I understand these are chaotic times and something horrible might happen any moment."

Like, say, a crime family coming to knock Seiretei's gates...
Masaru raises an eyebrow slightly at the message of Central 46 wanting to meet with him, and seems about to respond....

[Soul Society]
(Engineering HQ - Chouko's Lab)

Chouko looks up again as a warning blares through her commlink visor.

"...my time to warn the peeps, I guess. S***." She sits back from what looks like another pair of mechanical limbs, putting her welding mask aside, and opening a communique with Hideki, as well as the main intercom system of the Gotei.

"Yo, we got creepers on the way to the gate. Looks like the neighbors are steppin' up the... s***, I'm in the middle of somethin', so no class metaphors today. Guys incomin'. Got a big siege weapon. Look like they're ready to start some s***. Handle it, yo. Takenaka out." With that, she puts her mask on and gets back to work.
When he hears the announcement of enemies at the gate. His face hardens into a mask, and he gives a hurried bow to Jaswinder.

"Honored Elder Bhattacharya Jaswinder, I would be honored to meet with the august body of the Central 46 under normal circumstances, but as the announcement a moment ago shows, these are proving to be irregular circumstances. I must beg leave of this meeting to address this threat. I hope to be done relatively soon, but please give contact information to my aide, as I do not know how long this matter will take. If you excuse me I must summon my Division for combat operations."

Another quick bow, and he was blurring away.

When he appears before the Combat Division, he is bedecked in the self-appointed regalia he has not worn in months. Not only is his official uniform neat and clean, practically shining, but the starry haori he often wore once again graces his body. And his semi-signature hat once again rests upon his head.

"Brothers and Sisters, enemies once more march upon the gates of Soul Society. They bring with them weapons of siege. This is no mere protest. This is an attack. We shall answer. Half of you shall remain here, ready to answer calls for aid to other sections of the Seireitei and Soul Society, per orders from Command Division or the judgement of the remaining senior Officers present. The rest shall accompany me.

We shall meet these attackers. If they can be turned aside with words, they shall be.

If not, we know what must be done. If you do not feel you can strike with full lethality, as these are not Hollows or Quincy or some other external force, but Pluses and perhaps exiled brothers and sisters in arms, then strike to disable. But do so such that you strike but once, however you strike.

Combat Division!"

Hundreds of feet struck the ground as the collected troops snapped to attention and saluted.

"To battle!"

There was a collective "HOOAH!" before Masaru and half the members of the Division left.

It did not take them very long to arrive at the wall closest to where the Yi family seemed to be headed, taking up positions on the wall itself (for those with skill in Kido, or with ranged-type Zanpakutou), or at the gates below, ready to go out and meet the enemy head-on.

Masaru himself stood in a spot designated for commanding officers, waiting to see if any other Divisions would send troops or representatives to this confrontation.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-24, 06:54 PM

[Soul Society]
(Engineering HQ - Chouko's Lab)

Chouko looks up again as a warning blares through her commlink visor.

"...my time to warn the peeps, I guess. S***." She sits back from what looks like another pair of mechanical limbs, putting her welding mask aside, and opening a communique with Hideki, as well as the main intercom system of the Gotei.

"Yo, we got creepers on the way to the gate. Looks like the neighbors are steppin' up the... s***, I'm in the middle of somethin', so no class metaphors today. Guys incomin'. Got a big siege weapon. Look like they're ready to start some s***. Handle it, yo. Takenaka out." With that, she puts her mask on and gets back to work.

(Rukon - Momoka's House)

As Momoka pauses for a response from Setsurou, he doesn't get a chance before she turns her head, brow furrowed.

"...do you hear that?" For convenience's sake, we can say that the large rabble the Yi family is causing is somewhere near the house.

And then there was Chouko blaring on the speakers, but then again, this was inside Gotei proper.

"...for the love of... can't catch a break, can we. I'm gonna reach out to my Division and see what info I can get out."

He pulls out his Reiphone, and after a little bit of struggling with it, he manages to call.

"Urameshi. Talk to me. I want you to relay as much information as you can."

______________________

[Commander-General's office]

Koutarou was about to add something to that before Chouko's warning flared up.

"I suppose something just shot up the queue."

In a blur (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSAp991JIVs), he was out the door, contacting the various divisions for information. Orders were quickly assigned to them. Recon was to establish a perimeter, and initiate evacuation procedures. Medlog was to stand by. Engineering was to ready point defenses, whatever they had ready. Particularly long-range cannons. Kokuden-ou was at his hand in staff form. He did not forego the Commander's haori for once; although it felt uncomfortable, the authority it commanded was something he would need to keep this a bloodless affair.

The Acting Commander-General made it a point to address Shen Yi's army from a high spot. Outside the Shakonmaku, he could actually afford the privilege.

"This is Acting Commander-General Ishinomori Koutarou of the Gotei. You are in violation of several Soul Society laws. State your purpose and identity immediately."

Razade

2014-10-24, 07:10 PM

The Yi Family continued to march, the sudden and swift response from the Gotei inflicting no more than heightened preparations from the large crowd of neer do wells and criminals. Shen Yi remained ahead of the Family though any reports of a siege weapon, unless one considered Shen's presence one, were seemingly misfiled. "My my, what a roll out you've prepared for us neighbor!" he shouted when seeing the walls crawling with men and the greetings from the Commander Captain. "What's that you say? Several laws? Then we've not been doing our job now have we brothers and sisters?" he shouted over his shoulder, the so called army laughing as they moved to stand down at a motion from their leader. "Our land has grown so much closer Gotei! I was taught in the Royal Realm that one brought their whole family when meeting new neighbors! As you can see, I've got a lot of mouths to feed, I hope you can accommodate?"

Kuroimaken

2014-10-24, 07:19 PM

A few seconds later, Koutarou peeks at his Reiphone for the identity of their leader.

"I'm not up to date on neighboring customs, but I'm fairly certain they preclude bringing along weapons as if ready to go to war.

Unless I'm mistaken, you're the Yi Family. Anyone associated with you typically has a criminal record. I'm pretty sure we have enough space and food for the lot of you in prison.

Do you have a point you wish to make?"

Razade

2014-10-24, 07:24 PM

"I've seen your prisons Commander Captain! And you call us criminals!" Shen Yi offers with a laugh, the rest of the camp following suite though remain sitting and sprawling out at their leisure. "We're all warriors here Commander Captain, would you ask your Captains to go about without their weapon? I think not. Come down and have a drink with us and we'll have a talk. Shouting out across the yard at a wall bristling with weapons is no way to speak to guests. They don't teach you manners are your fancy academies? Come, I'll pour the sake myself!" Shen Yi motions to one of the nearest family members who scrambles to bring a table and a jug of rice wine.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-24, 07:32 PM

"My point exactly." Koutarou responded to Shen Yi. "You've seen the inside of our prisons.

You're not warriors. You're lawbreakers. You don't fight to protect anything save your own interests.

And I make it a point not to drink when I'm on the clock.

This is the last time I ask. State your business."

Razade

2014-10-24, 07:49 PM

Shen Yi exhales loudly before picking up the jug of sake with a shrug. "Do you think we would come making such a racket if we wanted to start a war with you? I merely came to talk with you! You see, my Senkaimon Gate is broken what with you somehow managing to displace our beautiful realm from the heavens. Might I happen to have your permission to use yours? Of course I don't expect to use it for free. I know you've been trying real hard to clean up the Rukon and I think we can help. You let us use that gate of yours and we'll be long gone. With all the names and hideouts of the other families too."

strawberryman

2014-10-24, 07:56 PM

[Soul Society]
(Rukon)

Momoka stands, conjuring a kido ribbon with minimal effort, which she quickly ties around Setsurou's free hand.

"We are close, so we may as well observe. Hide from the world, Yuuazamusha." Momoka's zanpaktou fades, leaving only the sheathe... and then, so do Setsurou and Momoka, an invisible mist clouding their position. With that, she rushes out to the source of the noise, leading Setsurou along with the ribbon (which seems to come with a nearly endless slack) if he sees fit to follow. Of course, the undetectability only lasts a few feet around her, so he'll have to keep close.

((Making a few assumptions here, Kuroi, hope you don't mind.))

Assuming Setsurou follows, they likely reach the edge of the rabble as they deal with Koutarou the road block. Momoka sees fit to linger between the buildings, just watching for now.

Kuroimaken

2014-10-24, 07:59 PM

Now THIS Koutarou wasn't expecting. He gives the offer consideration for a minute or so.

Then, he shunpous down to ground level.

Still looks serious. But he knows the likelihood of trying to spring a trap this basic is low, at best.

"It's a very attractive offer, I'll admit. If you're telling the truth, then you would be stranded on Earth. Effectively exiled from Soul Society proper. It's as good a sentence as any by all standards, short of execution. And with Soul Society the way it is now, it couldn't come at a better time.

If you can provide me with good reason for why you're headed there, and where you're going, I might just be inclined to accept it."

Razade

2014-10-24, 08:18 PM

Shen Yi doesn't move an inch when the Commander Captain shunpos down to be level with him and it doesn't seem to provoke the rabble much either. "Now now, some things are just off limits without a little sweetening of the pot. I'm offering you a chance to clean up your little moon and all we want to do is leave. You're not good at haggling are you Commander Captain?"

Kuroimaken

2014-10-24, 08:22 PM

Razade

2014-10-24, 08:35 PM

"I've got you all in a neat, large and packed enough group I could actually vaporize if I were of the genocidal persuasion. I've also got what you want, while what you have to offer is a side-effect of me doing as you ask, which I could accomplish by myself.

I don't really need to haggle. I've got the upper hand in negotiation.

But I AM someone whom values life very much. So that's why I'm even considering your offer.

For the record, you WOULD have obtained a less belligerent reception had you made it a point to use a messenger."

"We all came with a death wish you see, the threat isn't going to do much and you'll find we're quite happy to defend ourselves. We didn't come empty handed after all. And you've done such a charming job with the Rukon over the last two hundred years. You need this information Commander Captain. If nothing else it will save the life you say you value. Even the "criminals" lives." Shen Yi moves to sit at the table, extending a sleeved arm. "Wouldn't you believe it? Messenger service is out too. When a nigh infinite plane is shunted to the size of a small planet these things are bound to happen you know? Far as I see it, I lost a lot of money and lives with what ever it was you all did to make it all turn out this way. Not that I expect you to repay my tab of course. All we wanna do is get off this sinking ship ya know? I'm not enthused to meet the Royal Court Guards again and you'd best believe they're going to come with this bit of a bungle. I'm sure you've got the file. You know I know what I'm talking about. You and your Gotei aren't a concern of mine, your prisons don't worry me and your authority doesn't keep me up at night. But those five? I'm happy enough to go back down to Earth to avoid them even on a good day and it won't be a good day. Commander Captain."

Kuroimaken

2014-10-24, 08:47 PM

"We all came with a death wish you see, the threat isn't going to do much and you'll find we're quite happy to defend ourselves. We didn't come empty handed after all. And you've done such a charming job with the Rukon over the last two hundred years. You need this information Commander Captain. If nothing else it will save the life you say you value. Even the "criminals" lives." Shen Yi moves to sit at the table, extending a sleeved arm. "Wouldn't you believe it? Messenger service is out too. When a nigh infinite plane is shunted to the size of a small planet these things are bound to happen you know? Far as I see it, I lost a lot of money and lives with what ever it was you all did to make it all turn out this way. Not that I expect you to repay my tab of course. All we wanna do is get off this sinking ship ya know? I'm not enthused to meet the Royal Court Guards again and you'd best believe they're going to come with this bit of a bungle. I'm sure you've got the file. You know I know what I'm talking about. You and your Gotei aren't a concern of mine, your prisons don't worry me and your authority doesn't keep me up at night. But those five? I'm happy enough to go back down to Earth to avoid them even on a good day and it won't be a good day. Commander Captain."

"That's a shame, because you should be.

Something worth considering. You're assuming we chose to dislocate Soul Society. We didn't. It was the work of a single man. That man's name is Erscheinung Von Geister. Our current position is his handiwork. We're working on hunting him down. You're headed for where he was last seen. Running from the sinking ship towards the cannonball, as it were. And he can't pull the same trick now that we've been shunted into space.

In any case, if you run into his Cult down there, I suggest you run. There are few things the Royal Guard can do to you that man can't top."

Razade

2014-10-24, 08:54 PM

"That's a shame, because you should be.

Something worth considering. You're assuming we chose to dislocate Soul Society. We didn't. It was the work of a single man. That man's name is Erscheinung Von Geister. Our current position is his handiwork. We're working on hunting him down. You're headed for where he was last seen. Running from the sinking ship towards the cannonball, as it were. And he can't pull the same trick now that we've been shunted into space.

In any case, if you run into his Cult down there, I suggest you run. There are few things the Royal Guard can do to you that man can't top."

"Oh no, why would you? You just couldn't stop it from happening. Where I come from that means your partly to blame. The end results are still you're doing. It's just that they're your doing because you failed. Happens to everyone old boy. You'll get'em next time." Shen Yi smirks, pouring himself a cup as he keeps his gaze on the other man. "That so? Don't really have any fight with him or you. Not that I think anyway, you all might see it a different way of course but all I want is a nice safe place to kick my feet up and a steady stream of cash to make the eternity a little sweeter. I'm a simple man you see Commander Captain. You can understand that right?" he asks, insistently holding a filled cup out to the other Shinigami. "Now tell your men on the towers they can go back to sticking sticks up their butts or what ever it is you actually do around here like a good boy and we'll just see ourselves out."

Kuroimaken

2014-10-24, 09:17 PM

Razade

2014-10-24, 09:55 PM

"It's adorable how you think this is going to go all your way.

Shen Yi, you have failed to tell me exactly where you intend to go. Without that, I couldn't clear use of the Gotei Senkaimons even if I wanted to. In fact, the only way I can legally do as you ask is if I identify each and every last one of your family as criminals, and summarily condemn them to exile.

You have to understand you're not in control here. If we're doing this, then we're doing it on my terms, not yours. And you've been making it a point to mock Gotei authority since you arrived at these gates.

By all means, you should all face execution. I don't owe you anything. Take the hint."

"Only since I arrived at your gates? Slacking." Shen Yi grumbles through the glass. "That does seem a lot of paper work though, don't you think? There's a lot of us here." Shen Yi sweeps an arm about the gathering. "I'm not quite so rigid as you Commander Captain. I get my way one way or another even if my way just has to change. All you can do is look at me like a criminal, not a chance to take out this Von Geister fellow or a chance to clean your house for good. Such a shame. I don't really know where we're going but I did tell you Earth yes? Big place I know but that's where we're going. Where ever my Castle ended up, I honestly couldn't tell you. Would you prefer a shrug and a hand wave? I doubt you would." he retorts. "You have something I need but there are other ways to get to Earth so it's not something I absolutely require and if you kill a few of my men those options become much easier to accomplish and they're all more than willing to sacrifice themselves to get the rest back home. I have something you could use so that your much diminished home could be that much more swiftly "healed" but you'll do that eventually I suppose. We call this a trade of convince. I'm not so prideful that I'm above taking it."

Kuroimaken

2014-10-25, 08:38 AM

"Only since I arrived at your gates? Slacking." Shen Yi grumbles through the glass. "That does seem a lot of paper work though, don't you think? There's a lot of us here." Shen Yi sweeps an arm about the gathering. "I'm not quite so rigid as you Commander Captain. I get my way one way or another even if my way just has to change. All you can do is look at me like a criminal, not a chance to take out this Von Geister fellow or a chance to clean your house for good. Such a shame. I don't really know where we're going but I did tell you Earth yes? Big place I know but that's where we're going. Where ever my Castle ended up, I honestly couldn't tell you. Would you prefer a shrug and a hand wave? I doubt you would." he retorts. "You have something I need but there are other ways to get to Earth so it's not something I absolutely require and if you kill a few of my men those options become much easier to accomplish and they're all more than willing to sacrifice themselves to get the rest back home. I have something you could use so that your much diminished home could be that much more swiftly "healed" but you'll do that eventually I suppose. We call this a trade of convince. I'm not so prideful that I'm above taking it."

Koutarou clearly stifles a laugh. He manages to hide it in time.

"You want to take on the Ghost King of All Hollows? Sure, by all means, go right ahead. And don't worry about the paperwork. We're incredibly efficient at it.

Last we checked, the landmass we lost ended up somewhere in Eastern Russia. You may have to walk around a bit to find your castle."

He reaches for his Reiphone.

"Takenaka, it's Koutarou. I need you to rig a checkpoint to I.D. a few hundred, maybe a few thousand people in a short amount of time, and a temporary Senkaimon outside the gates. How soon can you get it done?"