Murder On The Dance Floor [Social | Closed]

[Luke Clyburn]

<sub>Out of all of his ideas this was probably one of his dumbest ones. It certainly ranked up there. But despite how stupid of a plan it was he needed to see it through. With how long he had been gone he had no way of knowing what all had changed. Who was still around? Who was alive or dead or moved? What were people's current statuses? Taka was already gone. She had already said she was moving away from Karakura Town even before he had his little nap. The Mod Soul that took him in and gave him a home for awhile back when he was younger, gave him a place where he belonged, and the person who he wound up dumping someone he made a promise to on. The last time he had seen Taka she had asked him to keep an eye on a certain someone as well as the group she was gathering around herself. Luke owed Taka a lot so he had no problem agreeing to do that. The issue was the person he had agreed to keep an eye on. An issue that was entirely personal and his own damn fault.

While he was certain that the bridge was completely burnt to ash and cast into the wind by this point, Luke still felt he owed it to both of them to check in on them. Last time they talked it didn’t necessarily end on good terms. Luke had acted like a massive asshole to her, laughed at her, and all in all had just been a massive jerk. He lowered his gaze just a little bit off the road as he cringed thinking back on it. He really needed to learn how to be a better friend to people. Turning his attention back onto the road he twisted the handlebar grip backwards to rev his bikes engine up and accelerate up the mountain road. By a complete stroke of luck Luke had managed to get his motorcycle back.

Sometime after he had gone missing someone had found it and put it in a storage garage. Luke only realized this was the case when he found out that one of the reasons he had next to no money was because he had been getting billed for the last thirty six months. He didn’t remember ever having a garage rental and when we went to investigate, viola, he found his bike. He loved his bike and was very happy to find he still had it. Maybe it had been Shizuka. Or Kazura. Or someone from Uzaki Enterprise or, hell, maybe it had even been Aura. Actually he doubted that. The latter might have just had it dropped into the ocean. Actually, Shizuka might have done the same thing now that he thought about it.

But getting back on track, Luke sped down the road. His enhanced vision made it exceptionally easy to see at night even through his helmet's lowered visor. He was pretty confident he was going in the right direction. It hadn’t been hard to find out where Aura had set up shop. A club of all things too. Taka really had rubbed off on Aura. What the Mod Soul strived to achieve was accomplished with a nightclub so why wouldn’t Aura replicate it? But Luke didn’t know if it had been successful or not. For all he knew the directions he’d been given by Taka three years ago might have been leading to absolutely nothing. Or a burned down building. Or a thriving business. He didn’t know. There was no way of knowing if Aura had been successful with her goals of creating a place for the Bounts or not. Was she even still alive? What if she had been killed by a Shinigami or one of the Vandenreich? What about Eris? Was she still around? Even though they might not be happy to see him, Luke did feel like he needed to check up on them. If they were gone then, well, so be it.

But like it was just said, they hadn’t really parted on good terms. Luke promised to help her beat her curse. Nah, just dump her on Taka. Aura came to him about her desires to lead the Bount. Nah, that idea was stupid. Mmgh.. Luke grunted to himself as he remembered it. Life was always gonna be full of regrets because of decisions you make but none of them really stung as much as how badly he’d treated Aura. Couldn’t really blame it on him being messed up in the head either. He’d just been a fucking asshole. That was why he figured that this idea was stupid. Even if he wanted to see them, they probably didn’t want to see him. In the time he was away it was completely possible that Aura, and even Eris, had become Bounts as powerful as he was. If Luke was the potential every Bount possessed then things could get ugly if those two had also reached that level of strength. He had a feeling if his Dolls were awake and not still healing they’d probably have a few choice words for him regarding this plan. Cus, well, Luke didn’t have a plan. He was gonna sorta just stroll up, walk in, and say hello. Why overthink and over complicate it?

What came as a surprise, though, was as Luke pulled into a parking lot he was greeted with plenty of cars and, from where he could see, a line waiting to get through the entrance. Men and women all dressed up for a summer night in the club stood in line waiting for the large bouncer to let them in. The man in question was even busy arguing with two dudes. Well it’s not burned down. It’s standing even and busy. Taka really did give you a mountain bunker and you turned into a nightclub, huh Aura? Luke thought to himself and smiled a little. That was a relief.

Taking his helmet off and shaking his head to fix his helmet hair, the amber eyed Bount with stained white bangs extended his Energy Sensory outwards into the building. In the darkness he could sense a few flickering flames but he didn’t sense her. It was possible she was suppressing her reiatsu to not crush everyone around her. Or she might not have even been there. This was a goose chase after all. Opening his eyes back up he huffed a little bit. He debated if he should just release his spiritual pressure like a flare and see who came running out. But he was curious to see what it was like inside the club.

He’d chosen to wear a long sleeved black shirt that loosely hugged his shoulders and collar with light tan pants. There was a moment of consideration over whether or not he should bring a weapon but it hadn’t taken him long to decide that would be a stupid decision. Parking his bike and leaving the helmet in the seat the Bount strolled up to the front door and just walked in. Neither the bouncer or anyone else in the line noticed him at all. He was a presence far too above their notice if he wanted to be. So he entered the converted bunker without any hassle.

His ears were immediately hit by the various songs playing throughout the club. Having superhuman hearing was helpful most of the time. Traveling up the entrance Luke came upon an elevated platform that led to a variety of catwalks. Luke blinked as he looked down each of the paths and saw that he was pretty much standing over the dance floors. Leaning on the railing and looking down he couldn’t help but smile, a little proud. ”You really went and did all this, eh Aura?” running a hand through his hair he couldn’t help but be impressed. She really went and did exactly what she said she was gonna do. She stuck to her words. Pushing himself upright he scanned around below him looking to see if he happened to see. She wouldn’t be hard to miss unless she had changed her appearance. Sharp eyes, pointy ears, long hair, large personality. He didn’t happen to see anyone like that though.

Deciding to get a closer look Luke made his way down from the catwalks to the dance floor. It was pretty crowded all things considered. The scent of swear and alcohol was strong in the air. He spotted a few waitresses walking around with drinks to be delivered to patrons who had ordered them. It really was a functioning business and nightclub. Luke could tell that there were perfectly normal young adult humans here. Scattered amongst them were those with reiatsu. Luke was sure that there were other Bounts here amongst the crowd. He looked over at the elevated lounge sections that were spread out amongst the edges of the dance floor and, at the back, he noticed a selection of rooms that only a few people were being allowed into. A vip area? Luke took note of it but decided to head towards the bar.

All the while avoiding drinking dancers Luke found himself an empty seat at the bar. The bartender, an incredibly large and well built man, immediately took notice of him. He sniffed out something was different about Luke. ”What can I get you tonight?” he asked as he approached the sitting Bount. Luke’s amber eyes looked at the sunglass wearing man. Did he want to drink? Eh, why not. It would fit the atmosphere. ”I’ll take your recommended bourbon mixed with something sweet. Some soda, why not.” Luke replied. ”Not very picky are you?” Luke shrugged. He watched as the bartender mixed some Evan Williams with some coke and passed the glass to Luke, the ice rockin against the glass for a moment. ”Thank you. One more thing. Do you happen to know if the owner is in right now?” Luke asked after taking a drink. ”Don’t know. Haven’t seen them tonight.” Luke noticed that this guy didn’t refer to the owner as her. ”Besides, why would you want to see them? We’ve got good drink and music. Enjoy yourself.”

”Ah, sorry. I didn’t come just to party. Would you mind letting her know that her old senpai is here?” Luke asked with a pleasant smile and immediately noticed the shift in the bartender's body language. He frowned down at Luke before that expression turned to something akin to shock and nervousness. In fact, quite a few dancers on the dance floor suddenly stopped and turned to look right at Luke. He had turned the valve just a teensy bit. Just enough to let a little bit of his reiatsu out. Every spiritually aware being on the dance suddenly became aware of the beast sitting at the bar. The man behind the counters frown deepend. ”Look. If you’re thinking of star-” Luke immediately cut him off. ”I’m not, I'm not, don't worry. I’m just here to see an old friend. I’ve been out of town for a while.” Luke explained, waving off his concerns. ”That was just my way of saying “Hello, I’m here” y’know.” he explained as he handed the bartender some money for the drink. Now all there was to do was wait. If Aura was here, then, he was bound to find out now.</sub>

[Aura Kyuketsuki]

The lights of the stage were set. The crowd growing in anticipation, rustling over the appearance of who was to provide them with the next song. The air within the bunker grew restless with excitement as the girl graced the stage with favored cheering. With locks of brunette tied into a knot to hang at the rear, dancing creases of the black veiled corset skirt, to those who knew her reiatsu were of few in numbers yet held their tongues. Amber eyes flashed with glimmering lights that bounced off of them from the stage as she turned to face the audience in a form that none of them would recognize, but one. Only one individual would know as she remained in the back stage watching with curousity, and concern. The same girl that had transformed herself into such form fulfilled a wish of her mistress for but a single night, and to remain as quiet as the few who knew.

Aura came onto the stage as she'd normally have yet under the guise of another individual to fulfill a single desire. The week that the man left the woman alone in that room she had to forcibly come to terms with what was done. Taka, who grew silent, was no longer around to provide aid. Those among her peers, Eris, Leon, were those among whom she couldn't talk too about such intimate details. They too would believe to be a fool. A child as the man said it himself. And he was right on every level. He was right, and Aura couldn't bring herself to utter the words that she wanted for the longest of times. From the moment he entered her life it had changed for the better. It was absolute joy, a thrill, the happiest she had ever been. Feelings that stormed inside that she had to let go of in order to bury who she was entirely, and to become who she needed to be. She was alone now.

So, she had to release them as Aura for last the time..

SPOILER: Click to show

{music}

The guitar began to strum as the drums followed suit combining the flow that keyboard and bass danced to.

"There's so much on my mind~,
I can't even look forward~

Even my feet feel heavy,
But still, I keep going my way~

I joke around, saying it's not over
What I am even trying TO DO? - When I'm searching for an an-swer that isn't even certain.....

A song that she had heard back when she was still acting as an ordinary human girl. Back when she was attending high school under the watch of both Taka and Luke, that the Bount heard this song. A song that caught her attention time and time again feeling the uneasiness that wrestled within her as she listened. Many of times she couldn't understand beyond it sounding wonderful, but as time went on... she slowly began to understand what the singer must have felt. Something that she couldn't say.

"To keep from lying to myself...
I wrapped my body in nothing but bra-vado
And kept forcing myself to smile~

But tomorrow might never come..
Even I might be gone by then

Sooooooo~, right nowww~

That's right. This will be the last time, so it is okay to let it out... Right? The mellowed tune of the girls voice climbed as the sounds of the music readied themselves for the climax, and for the girl to let it all out.

"I might as well just let it out now,
Scrape out the very depths of my heart....Singing Singing, yeah...

I'll tell you how I feel

I'm hurrying without feeling rushed
and running while standing in place

I'll accept all of it...

So I can have a future with you!


The music blared as much as the strobe lights danced along with the audience, continuing with what was said before in the lyrics. Aura continued on with the song until its conclusion, burying what was there for good. The pent of frustrations and emotions that she wanted to let out came forth in those moments, falling with the tears that she didn't believe she couldn't give anymore. It all felt like a dream that she didn't want to wake up from. But that was what it was...

...a dream.

A knock at the stone back awakened the Bount from her instance of slumber. The scratching of rocks when the door was slowly pushed open roused the woman on her throne, illuminating the empty hall with the harsh red hues from where she sat. "Mistress~, sorry to bother you but we have a guest that is asking for your presence." Aura's narrowed eyes merely gazed at her Attendent for a moment before rising from the stone chair. The black strips of hair washed over the arm rests and cushion of her seat as she parted away from the construct. A summon to the upper level of the newly made Citadel, which that the woman's Covenant had estabilshed in some time, where not uncommon. While many of the summons were tended to were dealt with by the other Bounts, or by that of Eris, there were the few exceptions in which Aura was needed. But while in the audience Chamber, she was not to be disturbed. So, something was of the upmost importance that the others couldn't handle.





A heavy coat was set over the woman's shoulders at the elevator climbed from the depths of the Bunker. The Bount shook away what sleepiness had taken her moments back as the different floors built into the walls were passed. Their numbers were growing steadily, with families forming by those who could be impregnated. The society of Bounts that Aura wanted to create was coming to fruition with the added support of the buisnesses they were controlling from the shadows. Mind control was the key that a few of their numbers possessed, and frequently utilized to establish their information network. It was thanks to the numbers under their influence that they were able to avoid larger fights, and transfer assets to other locations before the destruction on Karakura would commence.

Hollow attacks were unpredictable as they were wild, so maintaining a lush amount of wealth under their control was surely difficult, but not impossible. Drugs, sex, and possibly some rock and roll going on in the city were being monitored constantly by those that the Bounts have puppeted, relying much of the information back to the Bounts. With those details in hand Eris was capable to organizing groups of particular individuals to handle the situation. At the moment the Bounts within the group were capable of guerilla warefare for the most part. However, it was still far from being able to invade any other organization. They still required further strength. Allies. "Nadia, have you looked into the what I have asked?" Aura glanced over her shoulder. The Highschool girl dipped her head, "Yes, we will have the location of that individual's Black Market soon enough. After that, you'll be able to meet with him." she answered back.

Looking back at their elevating position the Bount nodded in acceptance of the answer she recieved. "Good." The doors parted when reaching the appropriate level. The reiatsu that was present was one that she had never forgotten. Not once. Weeks ago a rise in such reiatsu erupted from no where. A reiatsu that she didn't believe that she would feel again. After his departure years ago it had diminished. Bit by bit, feeling remnants of it lingering in the air when Aura had stepped out from the Bunkers main gate. Feeling its nostaglia in the night sky as if it were the first time again, bringing back those memories that held those pleasant emotions. But, she didn't smile. Not anymore. It didn't bring such an expression on her face anymore once she released herself of those feelings that night. She didn't feeling anything in particular for it. But now, it was back and in her dominion, so call it curousity now.

The smell of sweat and booze was certainly something that the Bount had grown use to as being the Sole Proprietor of the establishment, despite her dislike of it. While everyone was bouncing from the utter excitement in their casual outfits, Aura was the sole individual whose carried a different aura as much as its appearnce. A blackened corset dress the fell down to her ankles, lined with golden markings that clung to the edges of its design, bringing a prim and proper elegance to the ocassion. The heavy jacket that slung around her strapless shoulders covered much of her exposed pale skin, even beneath the swirl of spinning lights overhead. Black hair that veiled over the jacket and her sides, bordering the expressionless features of the womans face that was led by the crimson eyes, guiding in the direction of its position. Such direction that positioned the woman across the man in question, bringing the pair into view of each other as a pair of club patrons stepped aside.

He was as she remembered. With a pinch of her lower creases the woman dipped her frame in recognition, and in introduction, "Good evening, I am the Propiertor of Fukkatsu. How may I be of service?" she glanced up with harsh glowing eyes of red.

[Luke Clyburn]

<sub>He gently rocked the glass cup in his hand back and forth, watching the ice chink against the surface. He had already committed to this so what was he still so up in his head about? His eyelids lowered themselves ever so slightly as he stared down at the dark liquid swirling around in the glass cup. Maybe he was wondering what he was going to say once he saw her. How should he greet her? Friendly? Formally? Don’t give a fuck-ly? Assertively? Luke sighed, tapping his forehead with one of his fingers as he chastised himself for overthinking things. It almost made him wish he could hear a certain Dolls' annoying voice and bad advice. Just do what you feel is right. He told himself. There was another thing on his mind though. He wasn’t sure how Aura was going to respond to him being here. Luke was half expecting every single person on the dance floor to suddenly pull on him. He hadn’t come looking for a fight but what if that’s what he would end up getting?

He doubted it though. From what he could tell most of the people here were normal humans. You had some Bount mixed in with the crowd here and there throughout the bunker. But there weren’t any presences that stood out to him. He was confident that even if every single one attacked him, he’d walk away fine. He was the strongest after all. But only in terms of combat power. If it was true that Aura had gathered all these lost Bount together under one roof then she possessed a strength he didn’t know if he had. It was something he wanted to talk to her about for sure. Lifting the glass to his lips and taking another sip, someone pinged in his senses.

He felt her well before he saw her. Luke blinked. His eyes didn’t leave the line of drinks behind the bar as he focused his energy sensory onto her like mind slivers. There was, without a doubt, that who he was sensing was Aura. It was Aura. But something didn’t sit right with him. Aura felt exactly the same as she did the last time he saw her. That can’t be right. Luke thought to himself before retracting his mind. Even amidst the music, the talking, the dancing and laughter, Luke could hear the sound of distinct shoes on the floor. He turned his head to look over his shoulder and grinned a little bit at the sight of who was approaching him. She stood out from everyone else. It wasn’t just in how she dressed, though she really did go all in on the vampire motif, but in how she carried herself as well. Regal and distinct.

Luke rested his cheek against a hand whose elbow rested on the counter. Luke’s amber eyes watching the crimson-eyed woman give him curtsey and introduce herself as the owner of the club called Fukkatsu. Revival, huh. Luke thought to himself a little amused before he took the chance to speak he was given. She hadn’t attacked him so that was a good start. ”Hello. Long time no see, eh Aura? You look good. I'm glad to see you're doing well for yourself.” Luke replied, using her name instead of any moniker and not even pretending that he didn’t know her. Looking at her Luke felt… conflicted. He was immediately happy and relieved to see that she was alive and well but the butterflies in his stomach wouldn’t go away as seeing her face resurfaced a lot of unpleasant memories.

”I’ve gotta hand it to you, this club is awesome. You’ve done a fantastic job with all of it. Not gonna ask how Taka got her hands on a whole mountain bunker but giving it to you was a good call.” Luke said rather casually, letting his gaze stroll around a bit before returning to her. He smiled. ”You mind showing me around? I’d like a chance to talk to you, privately.” there was a lot he wanted to talk about. But in the middle of the dance floor and surrounded by god knows how many eavesdroppers? That wasn’t going to happen.</sub>

[Aura Kyuketsuki]

A ghost from the past that was thought to have been long gone had resurfaced, as it was foretold. Yet, which ghost was spoken for? The man that partook of the minor festivities that were ongoing spoke up, rekindling what history was there before their unfortunate departure. The Bount woman blinked at the man with a gaze that never did leave his person, watching persistantly as she hadn't done so before hand. His strength remained. Different from what it was before, but nevertheless consistent. The dreary clothing he wore for this evening were not what the woman was familiar with. They carried with them a sense of... if the Bount could properly think at the moment then the word would have sprung up already. But it didn't. Despite the lack of emotion that she was displaying, why did her heart feel heavy?

...why feeling heavy?

There is nothing there.

Nothing there. Who is he referring to?

Aura took the time to zone in to what Luke was saying, reintroducing the familiar face to the female Bount as though nothing had occurredA. Similar to their first meeting. A time that he first... That was her. Not you. She is.. The Bount cleared her throat before speaking, dipping her frame once more in acknowledgement. "Yes." she started with, keeping with a monotomic tune to her voice. The blaring lights flashing over head as the Humans and Bounts prattled with the tune of music. The liveliness that grew over the course of time through whispers and experiences of what the environment brought upon them. Light mist clinging to the floor with stone stalagmites etched out from the walls to act as support pillars. If not for the Human inventions and mechanics, then the dark depths of the Bunker could feel as though it were swallowing them whole in its endless embrace. Her head turned, returning towards the man again.

"And it is good to see one of our own enjoying what is there to be offered. Do take in what you will like to." she dipped her head once more, pinching the edges of her woven dress as she did.

There was.. nothing there. Aura didn't feel any particular ruse come from their reunion. A sharp pinch of her chest was set off moments ago upon gazing back up at his face again, but shortly after, nothing. There is nothing there. So do not concern yourself... ...we will keep them away. The voices in her head whispered in her ear, enabling the woman to continue on upon the mans gestures. A compliment ..he lies to you., reminescing of the past with a name that Aura hadn't heard for a long time now. Communication with the Mod Soul fell entirely, with only the rumors of her ongoing festivities being levels beyond her own in terms of entertainment, and luxury. A thought that would have brought a snicker to the girl, but ..she's using you. And so, when the idea of speaking within a familiar setting between the two came up.. ..he is usi-

"That can be arranged." Aura immediately responded.

The voices were silenced, almost immediately. Their lingering presence troddled about around her but their words could not be heard for the time being. At least, not while Aura had gestured for Luke to follow with the lure of beckoning fingers. A recognizable setting would soon befall the man as this was his second visit through the pathway. The dimmed crimson lights that alerted those that passed beyond were led towards the secluded section of the club. An addition yet separate atmosphere given by the natural structure of the mountain itself. The Guards at the curtained doorway nodded with acceptance, knowing full well that those guided by the woman were not to be impeded in any way. Much weaker than that of Aura, yet much stronger than the typical Human. Only the shadows laid before them with the lining of red lights embedded up above.

Sounds of music fading with each step that was to be overtaken by the whispers of naturally ventilating air. Air that came brushed gently against the body of the woman that unveiled the opened chasm at the center, beyond the stone railing at their side. The broad pathway that the pair strolled along was expanded enough to allow much foot traffic to be easily taken, exchanging the presence of several Bounts that bowed in respect towards the pair. Both men and women passed along, each with their own profession involving the front of the club. Especially those that operated within the pathway that they were currently on. Independent cell rooms that lined the opposite side of the stone road. Curtained, isolated from the others beside the other, the flow of reiatsu here was unusual in nature. Unusual at the sense of one being taken from another. There was no need for explanation of what the Bounts did here.

Yes. This area was where the Bounts had forged into their feeding ground. Both men and women, provacative in their appeal to appease the fleshly desires, provided such services here as they guided their "clients" for much needed release. An uneasy environment for those who were not accustomed to such activities, yet provided a safe and trusted setting to commit to the deed. Even as the pair passed through the dozen stone rooms Aura made for certain such activities were kept in check. "Ensure that the newcomers do not get carried away. We do not want unnecessary trouble here." Aura ordered a Bount as the pair were passing by. The female Bount gave nothing more than a silent prostration of herself before rushing off to carry on with her task, leaving the pair at the end of the road that bared twoh separate pathways. To their left, one such path that led towards an elevator, one that was designed with a bit of elegance. And the other, to their right, marching individuals down the side of the chasm, and into the depths below.

Their destination resided towards the left.



"Mr. Clyburn, it is soo~ good to see you again." an uppidity voice chimed in from a climbing shadow. Brunette in hair, and circling around the side was that of another familiar face, despite being only for but a single night. "My my did you get a hair cut? Styled it? Dyed it? Why are you a different shape now? Hmmm." Garbing that of black sailored uniform, the young female Bount danced as she prattled, poking playfully at the man upon leaving her position beside him towards the elevator shutter ahead. "Nadia.. "Oh wait, please don't tell me. You are gonna be wanting some of the action here huh? Maybe some nuru or some play time with the Mistress because you know she had been a sour apple ever since.. "Nadia. Aura sharpened her tone. Beads of sweat fell from the back of the young Bounts neck, creeping away slowly facing the pair. "Ahhh hehee. I should go." the girl declared before fading into the shadows beneath her feet.

A room that was seemingly left untouched since that day. An open lounge that acted as the rooms center occupied much of the space upon entering. Dark leather counches that lined the open ring that left enough space for a party to come and go. Series of books that decorated the shelves at the opposite end that was by the dim lighting provided by the lamp on the womans desk. Aura didn't waste anytime on disrobing herself of the coat she had donned earlier. Setting its heavy material off to the side on the couch, uncaring at where it fell off to did the Bount pivoted towards the small bar set at the nearest corner. "Refreshments?" Aura offered nonchalantly. Cubes of ice. Short glasses of refined glass. Sparkling water for herself and to what the man would request if there was one. It didn't take long until she spoke up. "So, what is it that you wish to speak of?"

[Luke Clyburn]

<sub>So far so good. Luke didn’t have a knife sticking in him yet so there was that. He was glad to know she was willing to talk to him though. As his amber eyes looked upon her form he couldn’t shake the feeling that he was talking to a statue. A familiar one but there was an undeniable coldness behind her words and expression. She agreed to give him a tour though. Passing his glass back to the bartender, Luke got to his feet from the stool seat and followed behind the extravagantly dressed woman he once called a student. That really was a long time ago. It’s been years since then. I shouldn’t treat her like that. He thought to himself as he followed her through the dance floor, letting her lead. Beckoned with fingers he took the tour.

This wasn’t his first time being here. But the first time hadn’t exactly been a pleasant trip. He remembered the arguing way more than he remembered the layout of the club itself. They departed from the dance floor and entered a section of the club that had a different atmosphere to it all together. Rather than strobing, bright, multicolored lights and blaring music there was instead a low crimson glow. A hue of passion and blood. Luke’s eyes briefly scanned the two human guards keeping people who shouldn’t be here out. There was a bit of reiatsu to them. Not much but enough to make them different from most people. So you’ve got more than just our kind working under you now, huh? Luke wondered to himself as he gave the guards a greeting nod and continued behind Aura. He was making sure to pay attention to the club this time.

As they traveled deeper Luke would watch as they came across a few other Bounts here and there. Each giving Aura a bow in greeting. Curtains lined the walls of where they were going and it didn’t take Luke long at all to figure out what was going on behind them. In fact hearing the rather pleasing moan of release from a male sounding voice was enough to clue him in. ”Someone’s having a good time.” he joked quietly. The reiatsu around them felt off though. Something was peculiar about it. But it didn’t take Luke long to figure out why the energies felt that way. Inspecting some of the curtained rooms with his mind he could feel reiatsu flowing from one source to another. The customers were being fed upon. In exchange for bodily release the Bounts were allowed to take what they needed in return, huh? So it's transactional. Luke thought to himself. He had his own rules he followed when it came to feeding on the living. He’d only do so if he had the person's consent. Or, in some cases, if it was someone he was fighting to the death. If it was a battle to the death why let a good meal go to waste, right?

Maybe once upon a time Luke would have had a problem with this. When he was a lot less mature and comfortable about what he was. But ever since waking up, and even a little before that, such insecurities were gone. Now that he was whole again he was able to come to terms with a lot of things. He didn’t mind this. Bounts had to feed in order to survive. There was a line, of course, but Luke had zero problems with this. Luke’s attention was drawn again to Aura as she gave a command to one of her employees. The taste of a living soul was different from that of a Plus. Luke knew this all too well when he tasted Shizuka Sanamizu’s raw soul. It was hard to describe it. If we were to compare it to food, a Plus’s soul would be like a salad. It was healthy and filling but lacked “taste”. A living soul was like your favorite junk food or fast food. Bad example but, well, everyone could understand that level of difference in taste.

Aura was ensuring that any new recruits of hers didn’t lose themselves to their hunger. Luke smiled. He was happy to see her like this. There were two paths ahead of them. A path to the right and to the left. The subordinate Aura had commanded went down the right path while Aura was leading Luke left. He blinked and wondered what was down there. He was half tempted to release Jager to find out but, well, he couldn’t. Jager and his two siblings were still regenerating. Formless cores slowly rebuilding themselves. He could feel their presence in the furthest reaches of his mind but they weren’t conscious. His head was quiet. Incredibly quiet and empty. Honestly, Luke sorta missed their company.

"Mr. Clyburn, it is soo~ good to see you again."

Luke blinked with surprise when he was suddenly accosted by a school girl looking, well, girl. With brunette hair and glasses the little girl circled him and pestered him with questions. Luke simply smiled and said, ”Hello there!” and reached out to pet her on the head. He hated to admit it but he didn’t remember her like she seemed to remember him. But a lot had happened since the last time Luke was here. He didn’t get the chance to answer any of her questions, even the spicer one, before Aura shooed her off with little more than just saying her name. Luke waved goodbye to Nadia as she vanished. ”Cute kid.” he commented following Aura onto the elevator leading to her personal chamber.

The room they went to, though, Luke remembered. He didn’t have good memories here. As Aura draped her coat on the couch and made her way behind the mini bar as Luke remained where he was standing. He could audibly hear the argument they had when they last met. His expression soured for a moment before Aura’s question perked him back up. ”I drove here so I’ll just take a water, thank you.” he replied, taking his drink and sitting himself on the couch that didn’t have her coat on it. She asked what he wanted. Luke just shrugged.

”Nothing too serious. I just wanted to check up on you and see how you were doing. I’ve been… gone for a while and wanted to make sure that you were doing well. I promised Taka I’d keep an eye on you though I know I’m a little late on that.” he replied, scratching at his cheek a little. Should he tell her where he’d been? Or would she even care? Luke was remaining casual and friendly so as not to set off any landmines. ”I figured you could relax a little if we talked away from everyone else. I figured you have an image to retain. I’m not gonna lie I was a little surprised seeing how everyone treats you. You garner a lot of respect from everyone around here.” Luke said, letting his eyes wander around the personal space a little. ”How have things been going for you and what you’ve been doing here? Has everything been going good?”</sub>

[Aura Kyuketsuki]

For only but a single night did the past engrain themselves into the very walls of the office. The scenario played back in the depths of the womans mind despite those very same memories were kept at bay. Memories of the past that were being surpressed more than usual. The shouting. The scoff of laughter. The anger. Frustration... The lonliness. Part of the womans head began to hurt, pinching the ridge of her nose that was buried beneath the layer of her bangs. Aura couldn't find herself believing that the circumstances had come and return them to the moment of that time. Why was she indulging this at all? You mean why indulge in that womans wants? She isn't here anymore, remember? Setting herself on the couch across from the man, Aura came to rest one leg over the other as she fancied the slender neck of her glass between her fingers. She watched, listened as to Lukes explaination, and finding nothing that would stir the Bount woman from the view of grey that she saw.

The taste of the fizzing water tickled her lips with crackling excitement, watching the man as she went ahead to quench the moment of thirst. The soft dim lighting of the office gave partial illumination of the room, casting shadows toward the elevator entrance, and slowly transitioning into a brighter setting. Half of the womans face basked in the darker aspects of the room, speaking from the over cast of shadow of her bangs over her mutual expression. ”Nothing too serious. I just wanted to check up on you and see how you were doing. I’ve been… gone for a while and wanted to make sure that you were doing well. I promised Taka I’d keep an eye on you though I know I’m a little late on that.” A chuckle from the shadow of the woman mind erupted, chiming in its existance once again. Had to be there to begin with. "Is that so? Seems that the Mod Soul should have hired someone to do so, rather than hoping for some form of charity of another. Aura responded, taking a swig of her water from her glass.

Taka and Aura had been close for quite a while. A relationship that Aura believed it to be as sisters, being the younger of the two in terms of life experience. She shared with Aura so much of her world, and what resided beyond it. Given the Bount a home, and a place to learn and adapt to the World of the Living. Despite the unusual circumstances that brought the two together, it was truly a blessing that Aura could lean back She lied to you as he did. There is no one now. But us. That is right. Right now, there is only..”I figured you could relax a little if we talked away from everyone else. I figured you have an image to retain. I’m not gonna lie I was a little surprised seeing how everyone treats you. You garner a lot of respect from everyone around here.” An image to retain? He thinks he knows.He thinks he understands But he doesn't. "You speak as though we truly know each other, Mr. Clyburn. I find that strange." Aura declared.

Years of recluse from personal connections, indulging in the nonsense of friends, and the affection of close bonds, Aura had only her commitment towards the Bount race. Building the up the finances through Underworld means of utilizing gangs and local Yakuzas, the Bounts base of operations steadily grew into a larger space than when it first began. A simple mountain bunker that was expanded upon through months of money laundering, building up capital, transformed the safe space into an actual living homely environment for many to reside in. What first started out as three Bounts slowly grew into a larger gathering as more space opened. Leon aided with the technical aspect, setting up the layout for what the new Citadel would become. Contractors and other sources utilized from his sources at Uzaki Enterprises set much of the community into place. As for Eris, her knowledge of Bount abilities and understanding them gave many of the newer individuals an idea of what they were capable of. Yes, while Eris was not particularly strong, it was her mind that Aura had put to use, and followed her instruction. Together, they expanded and dominoed into what they were today.

All provided over the course of years that Luke was not present for. Who failed in his promise. Who didn't bother to understand or know who Aura was becoming, just as she didn't know him in turn.

"Everything that you see here Mr. Clyburn was made through the efforts of many, and over the course of the years of constant work. Not only from myself, but all those that currently reside here." Aura came to rest her lips on the rim of her glass, partaking of her water before resting on the table between the two. "Everyone has worked hard, and pushed themselves to create what we have today. The respect that is garnered here goes both ways as I am indebted to them, and they to me. We are here for each other, and no other." Aura was keen on Luke, resting across from herself. She was at home with herself, and not based on where they currently resided. The woman had to command respect because it was demanded of her. Troubled spewed during the first encounter with new groups, worried on how living conditions would be in Auras Covenant.

Just as the Dolls varied with each Bount, those unruly Bounts that came to join sought to make use of the Covenant for their gain had to be silenced. There were various individuals that joined the Covenant. Those who sought protection. Bounts that desired a new peaceful home. A desire to learn more about themselves and who they were. Runaways. And course, those that desired power. While Aura didn't reach up to the level of strength that her fellow counterpart Luke was at, she did possess enough of said strength to keep herself feared among those Bounts who sought to manipulate their kind. Just enough to either cast them out, or bury them if need be. So much time that Aura had to steel herself, change more and away from that scared girl that was first stumbled upon. She was long distant from what she once was. So, when the subject about herself came into the moment, Aura couldn't help but stumble in thought. "I apologize for my tone Mr. Clyburn, especially as this is our first meeting. So do forgive me for being blunt. As per what is currently on going, I can not discuss such things to an outsider aside from business is currently blooming ever so well."

"If you wish to discuss such things, then you will have to offer something in return as per business."
"If you wish to discuss such things, then you will have to offering something in return as per business."

[Luke Clyburn]

<sub>"You speak as though we truly know each other, Mr. Clyburn. I find that strange."

Y’know, yeah, maybe I should have just called. Luke thought to himself as a feeling of awkwardness started building up inside him. She made a good point though. Did he actually know her? Well, it didn’t take much consideration to really piece that answer together. No. Luke didn’t really know Aura. Why should he? After all, he pretty much just dumped her on Taka when he realized how problematic her growing strength was going to be. If she had continued to grow stronger with that previous condition of hers then eventually she would have been hunted down and killed. Either by one of the factions in Karakura, Soul Society itself, or perhaps even by Luke’s hand. Though, Luke could have handled the situation much better instead of just dipping like he had.

Luke had no room or right to complain about anything Aura thought about him. She began to tell him about how much work and effort had gone into building what she had now. How it had been a community effort to build this club, and this place for them, into what it was now. But even as she explained all of this, Luke’s mind was drifting to another subject. He thought about the time he found Aura. The promises he had made to her. Their short time together in Taka’s club. He remembered how he began to grow more and more distant with his life there as things, in a way, improved for him. The responsibilities he became burdened with at that time.

Luke snapped back to reality when he heard his name mentioned. ”You’re fine, don't worry about it.” he said in response to her apology. Luke more or less got the answer he had asked about. Truthfully the success of her club and whatnot wasn’t really what he was interested in. He had come to simply see her not to check and make sure there was any mold growing in places that would get her club shutdown. But then Aura told him something that made him blink. He would have to offer the business something if he wanted to know more about it. He couldn’t really prevent his face from making a puzzled expression at her statement. ”Oh, uh, well I didn’t really come here with anything to offer. I barely even have five dollars to my name right now.” Luke chuckled at his own joke. Being poor and homeless was funny.

But the way she answered his question effectively told him that she wasn’t going to be revealing any details for free. She also pretty much avoided answering his question about herself. But could she be blamed? Was he actually owed that sort of answer? ”You’re right though. You and I don’t really know each other all that well. I couldn’t understand all you must have done and been through to come as far with all of this as you have. I should have had more faith in you. Or actually helped when I had the chance.” Luke expressed with an exasperated sigh and tossed his head back a bit onto the couches cushion. Looking up at the ceiling after opening his eyes back up he simply looked up for a moment before continuing to speak. ”I really did say some awful stuff to you last time, didn’t I? And now here we are.” he said softly before returning his head to a normal position. ”I should have had more faith in you. Didn’t really come here for anything in particular either. I just wanted to make sure you were… well, still kicking. The Bounts are still around and the city didn’t get annihilated while I was out of it so that’s a win.” he said.

Picking at his chin a bit before making a clicking sound with his mouth, ”So… what now? I can read the room. I can get out of here and let you get back to whatever you were doing if you want. I’m sure you're busy.” he asked..</sub>

[Aura Kyuketsuki]

He is still the same as ever.

A part of the woman's thoughts strayed from the general consensus that was created when the man left that night. The reminders were ever so constant, ringing from walls in the room as echoes of what went on that time. The shouting. The despairity that lingered. Hopelessness...Loneliness. Betrayal. Aura could summarize that night in many different words that would generally fit what she felt that night, and even so she chose to linger in that same room. The same room that continues to thrash about with painful memories. It served as a constant reminder of what she had casted out of her past. She emptied herself with nothing more than what she had to do. The goal she had to reach; the Covenants prosperity. It was all she had left. It was something that she can call her own, if anything at all.

The growth, and ever expanding the Covenant to one day rival that of the other factions, is what Aura had sought to do. The girl that had no place else to turn to once Taka had gone underground, considering Luke mirrored the same movements as the Mod Soul, the Bount had to create a place for herself. Scrapping together what little resources were made available to her, what Aura managed to accomplish with Eris and Leon turned into a haven to all Bounts that wanted to seek refuge from the outside world. A place that she could have used when she was first running about here in Karakura. If no other than Luke- Stop. He didn't do anything. Luke did- All he did was watch, then ran. He didn't. Because of him she was able to... What did he do for you? Because of him, she was able to- Just let it all drift away. Just like he did. He-

”Oh, uh, well I didn’t really come here with anything to offer. I barely even have five dollars to my name right now.”

The man was apologetic, resting on the opposite end of where the couch ended to where Aura sat. Mistakes of the past were branded in both of their minds, swelling, and blistering to become the results in which they were now. Both Bounts were not the same as they were in the past, taking the experiences from their long period of absence from each others lives, and laying them bare. Aura was numb to the words that he spoke of, considering much of the girl was buried years ago as did the estranged relationship they had. Minor as it was it still played a large roll of her life. It started everything for her, and helped her- No. It didn't. Yes. It did. It was a fact that Aura still held onto, regardless of her desire to bury it. Even now as the voices pushed back against the meager sense of self, the woman wanted...She wanted. The Bount rubbed the sides of her temples to calm her growing headache. She had to. "Regardless of your state of being. This place is opened to you to live in if you so desire," Aura declared, ..so long as you contribute in one way or another. If so, you may come and go as you please as a resident here."

Yes. That was what this place was. Is. A shelter. A living space for all Bounts to come. It is a place that would accept the individuals past, their mistakes, and teach them to improve themselves. To improve their quality of life. The rules that operated here were set, so long as the Bount did not bring their troubles to the Covenant, then they were welcomed. Infighting was immediately quelled. Criminals to the Covenant were exiled or eliminated. Even as opened as they were to all Bounts, what was established here wasn't going to be endangered by rogue members. No. For that reason, and of course a personal one to add onto that, Aura expressed her proposal to Luke.

With that offer being left out in the air for future discussion, the elephant in the room remained, honking with its big fat trunk. Taking a sip of her sparkling water, Aura continued to listen silently with words that were quite possibly haunting the man for the entirety of their past relationship. Thoughts that weren't spoken. Decisions that could have used more thought to them. Everything that was held back for three years, if not more, were being thrown out for the woman to hear. The sheer annoyance of it all made the womans head hurt all the more. Words that could have been told years back, only to surface now. Aura was conflicted to the point that sitting made her feel uncomfortable. The words wormed their way into her gut, and legs that remaining where she was only made her want to tear the room apart. "Mr. Clyburn, everything you had said has nothing to do with me." she expressed coldly. "All that I hear you speak about is about a girl that died years ago, when she was abandoned. So, I am afraid she is not 'kicking' as you expressed. And if it weren't for me, then the Bounts would remain scattered around the world. I believe it was time for that to end." Aura continued, approaching the man slowly.

Cocking his head back into position, Luke verbally put forth what Aura believed to drawing the end to the little charade. At least to her point of view. The possibility to clear his conscious, and move onward with life. What more could she think it was, ”So… what now? I can read the room. I can get out of here and let you get back to whatever you were doing if you want. I’m sure you're busy.” he asked. She didn't need to say a word. Not a single word when she leaned into the man to reflect each others image through the eyes of the other. Just do it and we can be rid of him for goo- The lips were soft. Fluttering for only a moment. Something beating inside, awakened. The warmth of another that she couldn't believe to be there only lasted for a moment, but that was all she.....wanted? A single kiss. That was what she leaned in for. But why? "Mr. Clyburn, if I was busy, then I would have had this discussion with you back in the front of the club, regardless of who was there." she spoke softly, reclining back into her standing position in front of him once more.

Why?

[Luke Clyburn]

<sub>Wasn’t Aura’s fault that she might have thought Luke had only come here to clear his conscience. He was certainly trying to get out of this conversation now that he said his piece. But, for Luke, if ever there would be a point that the sins of the past could be forgiven it would be done through actions not words. This wouldn’t clear his conscience. Not yet. It was only the first step towards doing so. But that hadn’t been why he was here. It wasn’t for his sake he had come. Luke wanted to try and repair, even if a little, the burned bridge between the two of them. This meeting, as short as it was, was just the first step towards doing so. The first of many steps, honestly. There was another matter he intended to discuss with her. But for right now he thought that, maybe, this much was enough for right now. He didn’t want to press her or overload her with too much. Especially not with him just showing up again after three years.

He did appreciate her off though. If Luke really needed a roof over his head then the club was open to him. He would have to pitch in somehow though. Without repeating the point, that was a conversation that was going to need to happen at some point. Luke just wasn’t sure now was the right time for it. On his ride up here across the mountain roads he had thought about joining up with Aura and helping her out. But after what he said last time and his lack of assistance years ago, he couldn’t just go “Hey I want in” right away. At least that’s how he viewed it. Waking up from his dirt nap and seeing that Karakura Town was still standing had given him two different feelings. The first was relief, obviously. There was no way he’d have been happy to see the city he called home reduced to ash. The second, though, was a little harder to place.

Seeing that the city was completely fine left him feeling lost. Had he really been necessary for its protection? All Luke had done was run around and cut down Hollows and punch thieves. He thought himself the only thing keeping the city from being completely destroyed by some spiritual terrorist or the Vandenreich. But that didn’t seem to be the case. What was all the power he had good for if he wasn’t using it for something worthwhile? The lack of personal satisfaction mixing together a little too well with the loneliness that came with being the strongest. Only two other people could sit on the top with him. One of whom he hadn’t seen for literal years now. As for the other, well, there were things he needed to work out with her. But, as stated already, the subject of joining the coven and helping Aura out was intended to be done later. After repairing the relationship with her a little bit at least.

But Luke’s thoughts, plans, and desire to leave didn’t seem to align with what Aura wanted. Because as soon as Luke put his head back into position and suggested that he could leave if Aura wanted him gone, he saw the dark haired woman's face hanging dangerously close to his own. So close that her eyes were big yellow orbs that reflected Luke’s confused face back at him. ”Aura what-” Luke started to ask before she made a move that he never expected from her. She kissed him. She what? She was kissing him. Aura Kyuketsuki’s lips were pressed against Luke Clyburn’s. His lips tingled. Ears grew warm. His heart started to beat a bit faster. Thoughts shut off. Thanking God that Jäger was still regenerating otherwise he’d probably be making howling dog noises.

It was only for a moment but god it felt like it had been a minute. When their lips separated and Aura stood back up straight she told him that she wasn’t busy at all. ”Oh.” was the only thing Luke said at first. His brain was still processing what happened. ”Yeah... I can stay for a little longer then.” he said with his own softness. His mind started to reboot and put two and two together again. ”Where did that come from? I didn’t think you missed me that much… or felt that way at all. I thought you hated me.” Luke asked, curious. There was certainly part of him that wanted to stand up and see where things would go if he kissed her back. Entwine his body with hers and indulge in the growing heat he was feeling. But he couldn’t. Luke wasn’t free to do that for multiple reasons. If all she wanted was a single kiss then, yeah alright, she could have that. But more than that was off the table.

”It’s frustrating 'cus I never know what you’re thinking, y’know?” Luke chuckled, completely defeated by Aura’s ability to completely catch him off guard. But he lowered his gaze slightly. ”I’m sorry, but there’s someone else... right now. We’re a little... weird at the moment but until I get things sorted out with them I can’t do anything more than that. Please.” Credit where it was due. Even if Luke had been asleep for three years he was still loyal to the one who he gave his heart too. Until she told him that it was done, Luke would honor the relationship he started with her all those years ago. Things may have been different now but Luke needed that closure. He wasn’t going to assume anything. But, what’s more, Luke didn’t know if it was right to do anything like what he was thinking in his mind with Aura. Not after everything he had done to her.

”I was going to talk about this some other time but… I’d like to lend you my assistance with the coven and community.”</sub>

[Aura Kyuketsuki]

"Mr. Clyburn, do not take what occurred to heart. It was merely out of a whim, and nothing more." Aura stared coldy at the man as she rose from her arched position. Reclining back to the spectacle of what a bewildered Luke appeared to be as when caught off guard. A gesture of intimacy that flaggergasted the man utterly, and herself. Touching the edge of her lips with a single finger, the resonating warmth was felt on both ends of the deed. The question was, why? Why did she feel that way when it came to such a gesture. The woman wasn't the same as before. She wasn't really "her" anymore. So why did she feel a tad bit...happy from it? "Of whoms whim it was I can not say. Nevertheless, that is all that it was. Besides, you would have to know someone to truly decide if you 'hate' them, or not." Aura stated clearly, returning to take a whisk of her water.

As per her drink, the talks between the two motioned onward, established by the casual dismay of ones inner thoughts. The denial of further information that only each of them knew, dangling so close to the lips that they could be disclosed at a moments notice. That swelling the Bount felt within herself was roused. A sensation that grimaced the woman, kept from the mans view when spoken to. More so when talks mentioned of "another." Auras eyes turned about once more, glancing over her bare shoulder over to the seated Luke. An interest? Curiosity? Anger? The Bount clenched her hand tightly to her chest as if to restrain herself, bracing what would be instinctual of the coming pain. Pain? Why did she feel that? Was she feeling conflicted about that statement? As conflicted as Aura felt, she continued to remain poised when speaking again, "I have no interest with whom you spend your time with, nor about your nightly escorts. So do not fret over this."

Wait, did she just make an insu-

Regardless, their talks continued setting aside the moment of absurdity between the pair, so that they may continue with - ”I was going to talk about this some other time but… I’d like to lend you my assistance with the coven and community." A brow visibly rose from its rest place among the womans features. A surprise that Luke was the one who was initiating this time around, finally, in regards to the Covenant. An expressed interest as to what someone of his ability could do for the growing society. Truly, a number of things in fact. The strength that Luke held was beyond that of Aura herself, let alone any of the other Bounts that were assigned to fighting. Leon possessed the skill set to take on challenges that required a bit of brute force to accomplish, yet he was still developing as well. With what Luke provided could fall into a range of different categories, yet, it wasn't for Aura to decide. That was what she felt.

Bounts had to find their place among the Covenant.

"Oh? You have an interest in assisting the Covenant? What brought this about?" Aura questioned, refusing to take her seat with the level of interest keeping her on her feet for the time being. The tall glass in hand had its contents swirled about playfully, despite the mutual expression the Bount maintained. From what was an angled posture that faced the man, turned into a complete frontal view of the woman, captivating her full attention. "The Covenant at this time is not at full strength, as much as how vast it has become. What we have are those who have pitted themselves into different sectors; from fighting, to research, cultivation, to education, business, to intelligence gathering." she first explained. "We have grown to cover much of these areas, bringing up those who have talen in a particular field to even cross training to operate in another. Yet, it is the Bount that decides whether or not to join said group."

Each individual had a say as to which path that was going to be walked. This was how Aura operated when it came to her Bounts. Some groups required more care than others, investing more energy in said group to insure that they didn't lack, and causing the Covenant to halt progress. A choice that Aura gave the Bounts within their group enabled a sense of accomplishment, but more so than that; a purpose. A purpose that was chosen for oneself was a stronger sense of duty to the Covenant, establishing a unique bond with the Covenant that the others didn't have. A place to belong. This was how Aura could establish trust within the group, as much as there was dedication. When one succeeded, the entire group did. And so, Aura passed this along to Luke.

"We are not quite well established as other factions, yet it is something that we can call our own. But we are steadily growing." A small quirk at the edge of her lips tucked inward, with a small smile at how far the Bounts had come since the beginning. They were truly becoming their own faction, and away from the other organizations that desired to eradicate them, or control them. They were a stand alone complex. Yet, "Yet, there are still too few of us, and even fewer capable to pass on our abilities to the next generation. If a there is a single flaw in us, it is that." There were too few who could procreate. That was the main issue. With nothing to assist them in their future developments as a race, the Bounts could face extinction if they were attacked. Rubbing the small section of her stomach over her corset, the thought that loomed over her brought fear, and anger to the surface.

"This must be rectified."

[Luke Clyburn]

<sub>"Mr. Clyburn, do not take what occurred to heart. It was merely out of a whim, and nothing more."

Yeah, easy for her to say. She was the one who initiated the random kiss, not the one on the unexpected receiving end of it. What was she, French? Luke looked off to the side, frowning a little, as he pushed the thought of what transpired out of his head. She had another comment to make that Luke wasn’t sure he agreed with. You didn’t really need to know someone to dislike them. It was easier to hate someone than to like them, after all. Although, it seems like Aura didn’t take too kindly to Luke’s rejection. He felt he had let her down easily but, based on what she had to say in response, he wasn’t sure if she was taking it too well. There was some venom in her voice as she told him she didn’t care who he spent his nights with. Luke wasn’t really sure how to respond to that but he did feel some sympathy for her. He was sure it had taken some guts on her end to do what she just did, only for it not to be reciprocated.

But, when Luke expressed his growing interest in potentially assisting Aura and her coven the woman was suddenly filled with surprise and renewed interest. It was honestly the most expressive he’d seen her be so far. Aura followed up her surprise with what was probably the most reasonable question to ask him. Why? Luke lowered his gaze for a moment before turning his head to the side to look over at something else as he thought about what his response should be. ”Well, I’m freelance now and in need of the work. I figured ya’ll would have a need for someone like me, of course.” Luke replied with a smirk before dropping it. That wasn’t the entire reason, of course. ”While getting paid is certainly motivation, I’d be lying if I said it was purely for such selfish reasons. The reality is, I like to help people. It’s what I think my powers, my strength, are meant for. Karakura Town has been fine for the last three years without me being around. So I’d rather focus my efforts and time on lending a hand to those that need it. I’d like to make a difference.” the man explained to her.

Waking up from his long sleep and finding that Karakura was still standing had left him feeling simultaneously relieved but also a little lost. For a while he had thought he was one of the key pieces that was keeping any one of the more notorious factions from making a move and simply wiping the city off the map. But after waking up and seeing that everything was fine, it made Luke realize that he could be doing much more than simply running around and punching thieves. Killing Hollows? Yeah that was always going to need doing. But he had a better chance of making a difference, and finding allies, amongst his own people rather than running back to Uzaki’s so he could continue to be dissatisfied with the way they did things. He wasn’t entirely sure if he was going to fully commit to and join Aura, but he at least wanted to help her out and lend a hand where he was needed. He wasn’t intending on following anyone weaker than himself again.

Luke’s attention was drawn back to Aura when she said something interesting. She commented on the low number of Bounts that were out and about, rubbing her belly and commenting that this needed to be rectified. Luke leaned back in his seat on the sofa. I wish I had asked for a real drink now that I think about it. He thought to himself as he finished off the water he was given. ”It’s the consequence of our origins. I don’t know everything about it, just that the creation of the Bounts was a complete accident. Some Soul Society scientists fuck up. Something happened on their end and then humans who could achieve immortality through consuming souls were born. Given great power, the ability to summon Dolls, and exist indefinitely. Long lives and great strength at the cost of being able to have kids. Most of us, at least.” Luke commented, placing his empty cup down. ”I know I was born. I had parents. One of them was Bount at the very least. It’s just the cards we were born with though. I’m not sure if there’s a surefire way of testing to see which Bounts can or can’t have kids.”</sub>

[Aura Kyuketsuki]

I don’t know everything about it, just that the creation of the Bounts was a complete accident. Some Soul Society scientists fuck up. Something happened on their end and then humans who could achieve immortality through consuming souls were born. Given great power, the ability to summon Dolls, and exist indefinitely. Long lives and great strength at the cost of being able to have kids. Most of us, at least. I know I was born. I had parents. One of them was Bount at the very least. It’s just the cards we were born with though. I’m not sure if there’s a surefire way of testing to see which Bounts can or can’t have kids.”

Yes, that was the entirety of the Bount legacy. Yet-

"Yet, what if I told you that there is a way to test it." Aura spoke up, turning her half stance into a full when speaking to the man. Words that didn't falter in what was being said, or what was to come out. A means to push past their inadequacies, and if not eliminate them altogether. There was a means to do so, and where to obtain it all. "Or better than that, a means to remove all such hinderances from our existence. To insure that we Bounts can produce as any of the Humans can?" It existed. All of if did. A literal means to an end for the Bount race as they will ascend further from what they were before; to be whole.

Auras approach to the man was slow, steady, unrushed when pacing towards Luke. Crimson eyes that didn't look beyond or what resided around the man, keen on what she was uttering. Pale fingers pulled from the cover of her hips to pull back her black bangs, keeping her view of the man clear. She didn't want anything to hinder what was going on, even feeling the hint of excitement at the thought. It broke her stoic neutraility expression that she held before when picturing of the success of it all. Almost day dreaming of it unfolding in front of her very eyes. "Such knowledge exists, and can be used to create a blinding new future for us all. More than being weapons. More than being monsters.. she inched closer to Lukes face again whilst keeping some centimeters away, ..For our existance to be made whole again."

A soft laugh cued out from behind sealed lips, the imagery of it all unwaivering in her eyes. Perhaps just wishful thinking, yet, it was there. What they needed. While Luke spoke about his thoughts on how he could aid the Covenant, the proposed idea was already set in front of him with the suggestion hidden in her words. The Bounts lacked sufficient military strength, and knowing how strong the man was it made accomplishing the task all the more possible. But, just in case, "If you truly desire to make a difference, then, it is with that task that would surely change everything, Mr. Clyburn." Another chuckle escaped from the female Bount, reeling back as to take her glass to finish what little contents was left of her drink.

Although, there may have been some doubts about this approach entirely. What Aura didn't consider was the fact that Bounts were still dangerous, and required a means of feeding if they have gone down that pathway. Bounts that needed to be rounded up and secured to prevent any form of damage to a population, an ever growing number of them without a leash wasn't ideal. The cons to the revised Bounts could make their race far too dangerous if left unchecked, prompting the other organizations to intervene. Aura had no grasp of how far their expansion could go if the Bounts were given the ability to breed freely, but, considering the alternative being extinction she didn't care for the risks. The Bounts needed this desperately. "As you have said yourself Mr. Clyburn, that you have your own selfish reasons, and as such, so do we. It is a mutual partnership that we provide to you a means of security in housing, work, information, food, finances, and in turn you contribute to what the community requires. And this information that is desired is something that you can assist with."

"We already have a group prepared to acquire it, merely only a way to retrieve it." Aura said as she moved back to the elevator, gesturing to Luke to follow. The frills that lined the bottom of her dress loomed over the floor gracefully with each step taken, veiling the longated legs that were kept hidden beneath. The echoing foots that chimed with each step of her heels against cold stone ever changing as the pair would descend in the opposite direction from whence they came. The opposite direction from how the two approached Auras office, the one that guided to the lower levels was to be next after the short silent elevator ride. Right into the shadows of the Coveants Citadel.

[Luke Clyburn]

Luke looked skeptical at Aura’s question. Not because he didn’t believe her, but because his mind imagined a different approach to testing a Bount’s sterility. Please don’t tell me you just inseminate them with a turkey baster or something. Luke thought to himself but chose not to voice that particular statement. But he continued to listen, tilting his head to the side quizzically as Aura presented him with a question. Had she found a way to not only test if individual Bounts could reproduce but also find a way to alleviate the drawback from their kind? In all honesty, the subject of having children didn’t cross Luke’s mind often. He didn’t mind the idea of being a father, but, it wasn’t exactly a plan for him. There were so many more pressing things going on in his life that the idea of slowing down to raise a kid just wasn’t something that seemed plausible. Plus, he wasn’t sure if the person his heart longed for would be keen on such an idea. He’d want to be married before having a kid anyhow.

Luke’s train of thought was pulled from the prospect of child rearing when the click clack of Aura’s heels caught his attention as the woman once again approached him. There was a look in her eyes that he was surprised to see. A fiery excitement that was almost unnatural coming from the cold statue-like woman he had been engaging with up to this point. This subject seemed personal to her. But there was ambition burning in those golden eyes of hers. Luke leaned a bit further back in his seat as Aura got dangerously close to his face again. So close he could feel her breathing. He stared into her eyes as she continued talking, presenting him with the possibility of the future she foresaw for all other Bounts.

She pulled away from him with a lack of lip locking this time. It was hard to tell if Aura was actually clever enough to say the correct things to push Luke’s buttons or if she just managed to stumble into it, but being told that assisting her would make a major difference prompted Luke’s ears to perk up. The Bount’s amber orbs gazed at Aura’s shapely figure as he contemplated what she had to say. She sought a way to correct the fertility problem the Bounts had and she claimed to have a way to do it. Luke’s gaze trailed to some random corner of the room as he contemplated it. If this was Aura’s goal, to help the Bounts like this, then could this be something he was fine helping with?

"As you have said yourself Mr. Clyburn, that you have your own selfish reasons, and as such, so do we. It is a mutual partnership that we provide to you a means of security in housing, work, information, food, finances, and in turn you contribute to what the community requires. And this information that is desired is something that you can assist with."

”Just so long as we understand that this is a partnership and not a subservient sort of gig. I'm fine with helping you and yours out with what you need and, in return, you provide me with what I need. You say I can I get you your desired information. What do you mean by that?”

Well, there was her offer. In return for his services he’d get everything he wanted and more. No more money problems, a place to stay, three square meals a day. Didn’t sound bad. Plus, Luke would potentially still have his freedom to come and go when he pleased. There was also the possibility that the Bounts would serve as good allies in the future so he didn’t wish to mess up relations with them. He wasn’t entirely sure how much he could actually help with what Aura had in mind, but he knew that his strength could be useful in other ways. Defending the club, training the Bounts, fighting when the need arose. In truth, Luke was more interested in helping Aura and trying to fix what had been broken rather than aid the coven itself. But, hey, two birds with one stone y’know. But what had she meant by he could assist in getting what information she was looking for?

Gesturing for Luke to follow her, the Bount blinked and rose from his seat and followed behind her back to the elevator. ”You’re already prepared to retrieve… what? You make it sound like the solution is just something you can grab. Isn’t the problem with our bodies the nature of what we are?” Luke asked, now wondering just what Aura knew that he didn’t. The elevator began to descend with a start, leaving Luke alone and confined with Aura. Putting his hands in his pockets he looked at her. He followed her as they returned to the chamber they were in before but taking the path that they hadn’t taken before. The one Luke was curious about.

He blinked with surprise when he saw what was hiding behind path number two. It looked like a whole ass fortress hiding in the confines of the mountain. Luke looked on in shock. He couldn’t help but grin anxiously as he beheld just what Aura had been hiding. ”What in the hell is this? I thought this was just a bunker turned into a club. But you were hiding all of this?” Luke asked with shock as he looked upon it. ”What the hell, Taka, I thought you said this was just a bug-out bunker.” Luke said to himself as he followed behind Aura, deeper and deeper into her world.

[Aura Kyuketsuki]

Everything was coming to be unfolded before the man. Numbers of individuals passing through the larger openings between stone structures that protrayed streets. Humming lights flickered through what were windows from the interior of the buildings down below, caused by candled light in the higher numbers than usual. Aside from what resided in plain sight, the light that penetrated from the several crevases up high gave the city down below a serene appearance. A completely different world from what resided up above on the surface. This was what Aura and the Bounts have created through the months, if not years, of hard work and unison. "What you see before you Mr. Clyburn is what we have spent so much time constructing. This is our home." Aura stated proudly as the pair descended the stairs.

The wide railess pathway down expanded, growing wider as the two descended, leading to a multitude of catwalks that connected to several buildings that were carved out of the mountain's walls. Each one holding multiple people that were passing through, with some eyeing the pair, even standing aside with dipped heads. Aura said nothing more than what she had to in which the circumstances were what would explain in her stead. Children running, playing among their own ages at a distance. Frolicking at the edges of a pool of water that surrounded the outer ring of the city. Freely, laughing, obstructing several people gathering pales of water to return to their original destination. There was life here that was filled with Bounts as well as Humans. Both races mixed to develop, and grow the community far beyond what Aura originally intended.

With the last few steps coming within sight the people who were gathering to make their climb parted ways, showing similar respect whilst others waved. Aura returned their gestures with a silent greeting, marching onwards to the center of the small stone city. "If you intend to help, it will be providing aid to the many who reside here, beyond those who you merely saw up above. And as you can see, there is much work to be done." Water rained down as multiple streams to be collected in smaller, man made ponds that fed into small channels, and aqua-ducts. Each pathway were guided into city as much as they did into rural areas built into the walls. Small communities that lined up as apartments, treading water from holes that were constructed to fall into the creeks, and feeding the growing vegetation that the community had set up.

There was more to see beyond the buildings and structures, moving about and expanding as loud echoes of banging can be heard in the darker edges of the underground world. Large silhouettes moving about in the shadows, carrying about some business of their own before fading back into the darkess that veiled beyond the edges. Auras eyes panned across her horizons, watching with absolute pleasure at what had been created. Lips cracking a smile with nothing more than a sigh of glee from how things were operating. Water rushed through beneath the crossing underpass that the woman led the Bount man over, eyeing the Citadel at the center of the grand opening. "What I am prepared to retreive is the information regarding our conception, our creation. The knowledge of how the first Bounts came to be, and our most intimate details Mr. Clyburn. That is what is wish to retrieve, and I know where it is." the woman explained, letting on bits of information trickel out while adding on more to what was said previously.

"If this information is obtained, then the Bounts can surpass what was originally intended for us. To go beyond what we can possibly even imagine now."

Passing patrons whispered, while others snarked at the sight of the pair, yet Aura continued on towards the twin large doors that allowed entry to the tallest structure at the center. Carved completely out of what made up of the mountain, its height reached upwards as a single large stalactitie, supporting the formation of the city at the same time as a building. A pair of Bounts held positions here at the entry, acknowledging Auras presence to pry the heavy doors open for the two to proceed unhindered. "With that information in hand, the Bounts can truly expand beyond what we have here. Creating an actual community that can assist with other Bounts who have lost their way, providing food , knowledge, and shelter, fully capable of upbringing the future with the love and care that they should be given. And not alone and confused as many of us were."

A spiral staircase decorated the center of the auditorium, providing a clear sight of the multiple levels that one could investigate freely. To where the pair were marching towards resided at the bottom. "However, the place as to where this information resides is where the issue is currently at. It resides in Soul Society; at the heart of the Seireitei." Aura spoke, more familiar with the workings of several locations of the Seireitei. Spending much of her life there left an intimate imprint in her mind that she could easily traverse those areas without losing her way. At least, so long as such routes have not changed. Squad 12 was where much of her knowledge came into play. The labs and research areas were usually left in place due to cost and care that such equipment required. Being so wishy-washy with machinery that valuable would be a massive pain in the ass to have to replace them, let alone repair.

Yet, there was another location that the data could reside in, and it too would be a massive undertaking. This was the issue considering the number of Bounts that were capable of fighting to that of the army of Shinigami that were going to be stationed in the Seireitei. It was nearly suicide. "At this moment we are close to discovering a means to enter the Seireitei, yet, it will still be a nearly impossible task. Not without the correct means to obtain it." Into the darkness did they go. Into the shadows that the Bounts were at their strongest. Lights flickered and reiatsu danced. The steps rumbled with tremors down to gallery of rock and fire that lit the chambers down below. Creatures that wailed about to strike one another. Titans rose to pummel smaller, yet hasty figures that danced around the feet of their adversaries. Bounts training their bodies and their summons to their upmost abilities, with some showing promise.

The pair would stand high above the few dozen bodies that ran amuk at the bottom level, eyeing the flashing light of spiritual energy that clashed with others of its kind. "Once we are ready, we shall motion onward and reclaim what is ours. All that is needed is just more strength." Aura narrowed her eyes, glancing down below with a stern, yet angered. The Shinigami will give back what belongs to the Bounts.

[Luke Clyburn]

This was way more than what Luke had been expected. Following behind Aura he was given a tour of the community built within the mountain itself. There was a whole town down here. Buildings were carved into the stone face itself. Luke felt eyes upon the two of them. The pair were being watched. He stood to the side to let a couple of laughing children run by him. He watched them vanish between the structures and happened to notice the ring of water surrounding the citadel that served as the primary water source for the Bounts. It was a bit medieval, but, Luke could not deny that there was life happening down here. He blinked those amber eyes of his as he let his head turn all over the place to really get a good look at his surroundings. What also surprised him though was the mixture of reiatsu he felt. Bount and human.

”You have normal humans here too?” Luke asked, though he didn’t get an answer. Aura instead continued to explain to him what his role here would be. Helping out those who needed it. Either she really knew the right things to say to a man she said she didn’t understand or she was like a drunken master when it came to negotiations and just happened to stumble on the correct words to use. ”How the hell did you manage to make all of this? I thought this was just a mountain bunker.” Luke asked, aloud, though like before he didn’t receive an answer to the question. Instead, Aura further elaborated on what she wanted. It was almost funny how, not long ago now, she had been incredibly tight-lipped about what she and her companions had been up to and were after. But now after Luke agreed to assist she became very talkative.

Luke listened with interest as she revealed that what she was truly after was information. Not a cookbook or tax information though. She wanted the information about the Bount. Didn’t take a genius to see where this was going. She wanted knowledge about their conception, their creation, and their origins. The true history of the Bount. Luke followed her into the tall stalactite even as some sneered at them. Aura continued to speak on her goals and plans. Her dream. She wanted the Bounts to propagate. To become more than they currently were. Aura was working on creating a home for their people. She had been doing this for, at the very least, the last three years while he had been frozen and regenerating. No, Aura might have been working on this earlier than even that. Luke wouldn’t have known because the him of that time had slapped her offer out of her hand. What a foolish thing to have done.

Following Aura down a spiral staircase she finally revealed what the obstacle was to getting what it was she wanted. The information she sought was stored in the Seireitei. Ah. Now Luke saw the problem. It was unfolding before his eyes rather plainly. He continued to listen though instead of interrupting with his own observations. He would have time to talk later. Besides, he was enjoying hearing Aura talk and the enthusiasm she had in her voice. It was much better than the cold and monotone voice she had given him earlier. She had a nice voice.

Luke was seeing the problem though. He rested his hand on the railing they stood in front of and looked down at the Bounts training in the arena below. He watched as human forms danced amongst inhuman ones of different shapes and sizes. He didn’t have to investigate too deeply with his energy sensory before he simply felt… disappointment. He had this feeling before when he sensed Aura again for the first time. But, in her case, he was willing to completely give her a pass. If Aura had been working on this, all of this, for the last three years then he could forgive her lack of growth in strength. Aura’s power manifested in other ways. But the Bounts he was feeling in the arena? They weren’t weak but they weren’t strong either. Why was it that he was so much stronger than the rest of his kind? He stood at a peak so far above the rest of the Bount with only the solitude that absolute power brought you.

Aura even said it. The Bounts needed strength. Perhaps this was why Aura was so gungho about revealing things to Luke. He realized that she needed him way more than he needed her. He might just be the key to everything succeeding. Luke wanted to help, of course. He could be an ass but he was a selfless person. This wasn’t just about helping their people, it was also about fixing things between him and Aura. A step towards doing the right thing to make up for abandoning her. Turning his back to the arena and leaning against the railing, Luke crossed his arms across his chest and considered his next words. He heard what Aura had to say. He knew what it was she wanted and needed now.

”I can get you into Soul Society.”

He said it with such nonchalant and casualness. His amber eyes simply looked at Aura as he dropped that bomb on her like it was nothing, even pointing at himself. ”Easily as well. The same way I used to travel to Hueco Mundo from time to time.” It was true. When Luke was at his worst, struggling with his killers' guilt and existence as a Bount, he opted to feed on Hollows as some twisted form of self-harm. What a terrible mistake that had been. It only exasperated his problems. Who would have thought feeding on entities of pure negativity would damage your mental health? Hell, it even permanently stained his hair white. ”I have a portable gateway” he continued, ”that can take you directly into the heart of the Seireitei. I don’t mind giving it to you once everything is ready.” Luke said directly to her.

The Interdimensional Doorknob. Stupid name for such a powerful item. Illegal to own. Luke should have had a bounty on his head for even possessing it. He had picked it up from the Japanese black market on a whim when he decided to visit the place. He never would have guessed it would end up being so important down the line. ”But you don’t need me to tell you that none of you are ready to enter Soul Society. Even with my power, I’d be hard-pressed to fight more than two Captains. That was three years ago too. I have no idea what the Gotei Thirteen looks like right now. The point is, you’re not ready yet. The Bount aren’t ready to do this. Not yet.” he said to her with seriousness in his voice.

”But I can help get them ready.”

He added, immediately removing any chance of Aura losing hope. ” Natural geniuses like me make for terrible teachers. I had to learn everything I know on the fly. Imagination, creativity, and trying to stay alive. Not to mention all the fighting I’ve done against actual monsters. You get what I’m saying though, right? I’ll give you access to Soul Society but we have to get the Bount ready for this first.” he concluded, looking at her intently.