Peas in a Pod [Takehiko v Takashi, NDE, PG-13]

[Amagai Kuchiki]

Thread Title: Peas in a Pod [Takehiko v Takashi, NDE, PG-13]
Participants: Takashi Kuchiki, Takehiko Kuchiki
World: Soul Society
Death Setting: Non Death Enabled
Rating: PG-13
Location: A lovely little set of sparring grounds behind the Kuchiki manor.
Special Conditions:
Circumstances: Takehiko Kuchiki is attempting to teach Takashi Kuchiki a few combat tricks by smacking him around, given that the two are both highly proficient in weaponry.

[Takashi Kuchiki]

Takashi felt his feet sink into the fertile soul of the Kuchiki training grounds. Souzen Taichou seemed to like the idea of Takashi mingling with the other Kuchiki. As such, he prepared himself for combat with yet another powerful figure. The meeting was held for 12pm, and Takashi was still a bit early. Dressed in his white shinigami robe he was ready for combat; getting stronger was his goal after all. Takashi moved past the strange wooden figures until he grasped a hold of a wooden bokken from the armory; ideal for this type of combat. Gauging its weight, he swung it around with one hand before turning it around, so the tip of the bokken rested on the groun; its handle facing towards the sky in Takashi's hand. He noted the area around him, gauging it as he let out a soft sigh, fiddling with his his weapons handle. His eyes were as cold as ever, yet he had a childish curiosity of the sword. It seemed he would await the man known as Takehiko Kuchiki.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Statistics}
Combat Stats

Strength - 50 Points (100)

Speed - 50 Points (100)

Spiritual Pressure - 100 Points (67)

Reiatsu Strength - 100 Points (67)

Light Aura - 65 Points

Dark Aura - 35 Points

Instinct - 100 Points

Senses - 50 Points

Energy sensory - 50 Points

Healing Expertise - 0 Points

Current Skills: (5/15 SKP Spent)

- Martial Arts: [Hakuda] (1)
-Strength of Will: (1)
-Battle Analysis: (1)
-Weapon [Sword]: (1)
- Battle Focus: (1)

[Amagai Kuchiki]

Despite having a mountain of paperwork to do, Takehiko always managed to find time for family. However, finding time was not the same as actually using it, and so although he'd promised Takashi that he'd be punctual, Takehiko found himself running late. He assumed that his cousin would forgive him, given that he was an unseated officer and well aware of the fact that Takehiko's job as a Vice Captain was a little bit more demanding. So Takehiko arrived late to the training grounds, something that was a fairly rare occurrence, given Takehiko's usual punctuality. "My apologies, Takashi, I had prior commitments that ran later than I expected. We of course can extend this training session slightly longer in order to compensate." Takehiko bowed, for although his cousin was a lower rank than he was, not to mention significantly younger than Takehiko, he was still a Kuchiki, and deserved the same respect that Takehiko gave to all his cousin's and relatives.

Takehiko grabbed a bokken from the weapons rack, setting aside his own katana and chain. Since it was just a practice spar, there was no reason to use real weapons. He turned to his cousin, and cocked his head. "I will give you the first attack, it makes it easier for me to instruct you on how to improve. " He left the bokken by his side, hand not directly on the hilt. It didn't matter however, Takehiko was a master of Iaijutsu, and faster than you could believe. The instant an attack was headed his way, he'd be able to block it. Of course, given he was in a position of instructing, he likely wouldn't be just blocking, but also demonstrating a simple counter attack. Bit by bit, blow by blow, bruise by bruise, he would teach Takashi. Hopefully, his cousin would listen.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Spoiler}{Stats and Skills}
Strength: 800 (400 x 2)
Speed: 600 (300 x 2)
Reiatsu Strength: 200 (300 x .66)
Spiritual Pressure: 200 (300 x.66)
Instinct: 150
Senses: 150
Energy Sensory: 0
Healing Expertise: 0
Light Aura: 50
Dark Aura: 50

[Sword Style: Iaijutsu] 3
[Weapon: Chain Weapons] 3
[Pain Tolerance] 3
[Hakuda] 3
[Battle Analysis] 3

[Takashi Kuchiki]

Takashi bowed lightly to his superior as he saw him entering the area. Takehikio was another Kuchiki, as such, he would show him the proper respect. Sozen Taichou had taught him this well, the family was to be respected no matter what rank; though, this went double for Takehiko and others of higher status. Takashi respected this man, he seemed very calm minded and down to earth, someone he could converse with.

"Please do not worry Takehiko Fukutaichou, I fully understand the difficulty of your position. It is an honor that you will be training me.". He looked towards Takehiko who wished for him to make the first move. Takashi nodded as he held his bokken with both hands. He parted his feet, keeping some distance between them.

His bokken was straight up, facing Takehiko. With a deep breath and release, the rather unenthusiastic eyes looked towards Takehiko. Takashi cleared he his throat softly before taking in a deep breath. With that, he rushed forward towards Takehiko. Takashi knew this man was powerful and the only way he would get stronger is training with those who were stronger than him.

Upon getting closer, Takashi's sword was now slightly to the right and horizontal, his hands more towards the right side of his body. Stepping out with his right foot he simultaneously swung the bokken. The intent was to 'slash' at Takehiko in a horizontal manner, to cut him horizontally if the attack hit. He was curious to see what the experienced Kuchiki would do.

[Amagai Kuchiki]

The respect that Takashi gave to Takehiko put an amused smile on his face. Of course, he likely deserved the respect, but he had a tendency to forget that. He was a Vice Captain, yes, but he still had so much to learn, and so much room to grow. Besides that, he hadn't done a ton as Vice Captain yet, especially not with his Captain. Takehiko and Alexander's relationship was a rather interesting dynamic, and one that would likely become more equal as Takehiko grew physically stronger. As it stood, however, Alexander frightened him. Not in a direct, fearful way, but in a "Wolf Amongst Sheep" way. The man was incredibly powerful, physically at least, and Takehiko frequently questioned if he'd be able to ever do the job as efficiently as Alexander would be able to. 

But that was neither here, nor there. No, what mattered in the moment was Takashi deciding on movements. His stance was strong, his movements were crisp, and although his attack was basic, it would likely be effective. However, that was the flaw in it. As the sword was swung, Takehiko lightly shook his head. and raised his right hand, extending two fingers to stop the Bokken mid swing, taking care not to accidentally disarm Takashi with the force he was capable of outputting. "Takashi, you are aware of why we are sparring, correct?" He paused briefly for emphasis, staring his younger cousin directly in the eyes, and slowly dropping his fingers, letting Takashi withdraw the Bokken if he chose to do so. 

"We are here to give me the chance to test you, and to give you the chance to test yourself. We are not here, however, to test my capabilities. So when you open with a basic attack, when you are focused more on how I react rather than how you function in a combat situation where you are weaker than your foe, then you are missing the point of the exercise. You are wasting both of our times." He let the words sink in. It was unlikely Takashi meant any offense by his actions, so Takehiko's words were in an instructive tone, rather than a scolding one. "In many of my endeavors, I am not the most honorable individual. I've done many things in my life that I wish I could change. However, I take combat very seriously."

Takehiko returned to a neutral stance, his mini lecture was almost finished and he had to be ready to resume combat instantly afterwards. "Takashi, if I can teach you only one thing, it should be this: never give an empty threat. If you are not capable of following through on a threat, whether verbal or physical, do not make it in the first place. Do not swing your sword if you believe the battle to be pointless. Do not tell someone that you will kill them if you know you are not able to. Do not tolerate anyone who gives you an empty threat either. Empty threats are like fighting with dull weapons; they are an insult to your opponent, and to yourself. With that said, you must only fight to pursue your own goals for the threat to be real. If you are attacking me in order to beat me, and you do not one hundred percent believe in your own capabilities, that is an insult, but if you do believe, then I cannot fault you. If you are attacking in order to get stronger, and your actions mirror that, you will do well in life. So, once again, attack me. But this time, put your heart into your sword. Test yourself, rather than me."

[Takashi Kuchiki]

As the young shinigami swung with a basic attack, it was easily guarded by Takehiko without effort. It seemed as though the man was intent on showing him that he should come at him seriously. He even asked him a question and began to explain a few things to him. Takashi blink a few times, nodding to him to show that he understood. However, he listened intently and wished to speak his mind as well. Sozen was the one who taught him to do this, it felt as though he wanted Takashi to speak his mind more.

"I understand completely Fukutaichou. However, I respectfully feel that attack was indeed one that was the most efficient. I have thought through a few other moves as well, I found this one to be the most effective. If I were the same level as yourself, I'd imagine you would be devoid of two fingers Fukutaichou. I do agree with everything you have said and I will respectfully attempt to implement it in the future. I thank you for your wise words and wisdom that you have given me. Now, please allow me to attack you as you have requested of me."

With that, Takashi drew his bokken back, letting his left hand drop from his grip and moving it to the side of his face. With the hand, he stroked his hair back with his left, he did so only slightly and left it there after he did. The gap between Takashi and Takehiko wasn't rather wide, making slashing still a bit difficult. Without warning, Takashi thrust his left knee into the air by pushing off his left foot.

His intent was to drive it into the Fukutaichou's abdomen. He minded the gap that was between the two, noticing that it would be difficult to strike. In addition, Takehiko Fukutaichou had returned to his neutral stance, having his bokken to his side. Takashi decided to take full advantage of this as he would plan his next attack; of course there was more to come.

After his knee, the young shinigami would step down on the Fukutaichou's foot, stomping the vice captain's right foot with his left one. Takashi wanted to see how the Fukutaichou would react while the man began attacking him more intently. For now, he figured that would be enough, he was quite curious how a man of Takehiko's stature would react.

[Amagai Kuchiki]

Hmmm, perhaps he had been a little too condescending and rough on Takashi. The unseated shinigami clearly hadn't meant any harm by his actions, the chastisement was probably slightly uncalled for. Takehiko had gotten a little overly caught up in the idea of acting as an instructor, and had ended up being a little boastful. Which wasn't ideal, although he'd suspended his personal code of honor somewhat, at least in regards to his feels on attacks that did not end the fight, he couldn't afford to get cocky. Of course Takashi wasn't a threat, but there was more to their interaction than simply reminding Takashi of that fact over and over again.

Although, admittedly, Takehiko did smile slightly at the claim that he could lose to Takashi, if they were the same level. By the time Takashi was as strong as Takehiko was at this moment, Takehiko would be miles ahead. It was a modified Xeno's Paradox, with Takehiko being the turtle, and being capable of sprinting. No matter how fast Takashi grew, by the time he got to the hallway point, Takehiko would be further. His growth potential at the moment was nigh limitless, and even fights like this, where he was battling someone much weaker than he was, helped to further the goal. However, he acknowledged the complaint, and solemnly nodded towards Takashi. "I promise I will not block your sword with fingers. However, I cannot promise that I will refrain from blocking barehanded in general."

Now, the time for words was done. Takashi's movement of brushing his hair was a slight tell, a way of suggesting that he was reseting the combat. But the fact he slid his bokken back also suggested that he wasn't looking to attack with a sword. Ah, it clicked, he would go for a hand to hand attack. He would be disappointed, then. Takehiko had better analytical capabilities, better reaction speed, and faster direct speed. The second Takashi began to move, Takehiko would move to counter attack. There wasn't much space between the two of them, so of course speed only mattered so much, but as long as Takehiko accurately predicted what his cousin would do, right as he started to do it, then everything would be fine.

And sure enough, his predictions were right. As Takashi's foot left the ground, Takehiko simultaneously shifted. There wasn't enough room to kick, obviously he'd go for a direct knee, and likely to the lower chest, given that that's what was in reach. Instead, however, Takehiko moved his hands and intercepted the knee, not directly, but grasping it from the sides. He waited a heartbeat, just enough time to allow Takashi to comprehend what was happening, then threw the knee up and over, causing his cousin to fly head over heels for a short distance. He didn't put as much force into the action as he could have, Takashi would likely be fine. However, he'd be on the ground for a short while. Takehiko took a few steps forwards, in order to effectively reset the combat in distance.

"I would like to commend the idea, and effort. Against a lesser opponent, that maneuver would have been a very effective one, largely because it did not follow the expected rules of engagement. Always do that, keep your opponent off balance, and not sure what to expect. If they think it is a sword fight, engage in Hakuda. If they are expecting hand to hand combat, then throw kido at them. And when they expect balls of fire and such, that is the moment when you draw your sword and cut them down. Of course, don't view this as a direct rock, paper, scissors, that's not the point. The point is that you shouldn't repeat yourself to the point when they understand your rhythm. Consciously avoid patterns. Makes sense?" Of course, praise couldn't come without instruction, but it was clear in Takehiko's voice that he was, in fact, proud of Takashi's actions.

[Takashi Kuchiki]

Blocking barehanded as he? Takashi didn't show it on his face nor in his demeanor but he was quite amused at the way Takehiko-san was. It seemed he was strict but far more passionate than Takashi himself was. However, Takashi felt as though he underestimated the man. It seemed though, that it was justified, given the mans high status and his incredible physical abilities were far beyond Takashi. As such, he would humble himself in front of the man. It was interesting, it seemed as though Takehiko had caught on to his rouse of brushing his hair; it was very unlike Takashi indeed.

It was also rather strange, this training was far different than with Sozen. With the other man, he kept his speed relatively close to Takashi's. However, Takehiko seemed to keep his body at full power at all points. This man wasn't holding back and wasn't easy on Takashi at all, which he liked truthfully. It was a very interesting bout between the two men. He truthfully admired how Takehiko was, he was disciplined but he still seemed to be able to not seem so stern with his personality. It was interesting to see how flexible yet rigid this man could be.

Takashi looked towards the Fukutaichou as his knee came in. He hadn't realized it, but as soon as his knee came in, it had been grasped. There was only a heart beat as Takashi was thrown up into the air. The only thing he could hope to do was extend his left leg upwards. He would be thrown up at the Fukutaichou's intended speed or strength. Almost as though he were executing a back flip kick. However, with such speed and blurry reaction time, Takashi wasn't even sure if he had done what was intended. Perhaps he would hit the Fukutaichou, or perhaps he wouldn't. In either case, it seemed as though he didn't take things lightly.

As he soared through the air, Takashi crashed down, landing near a pile of bokken. He gritted his teeth as he landed by the cart. Mainly, he rose himself up, but didn't show any emotion nonetheless. It was strange,he was definitely hurting but he attempted to keep this one in. It was definitely painful though and there was some signs on his face that showed it. As he got to his feet, he noticed Takehiko-san had already reset his position. Takashi dushed himself off. As he did so, he reached down and grasped a bokken and rose it up once more. That was indeed a difficult attack to take. It seemed as though the force behind it was still causing Takashi to ache.

In any case, he looked up and listened to what the Fukutaichou had to say. Takashi bowed to him and then looked towards the Fukutaichou for a moment. Instead of raising his bokken he looked towards him with a slight nod. "I undersatnd Fukutaichou". Takashi said as he rose his bokken upwards. The Fukutaichou hadn't said it, but it seemed as though he wanted him to continue attacking. With that, Takashi agreed. It seemed that this fight would be a lot more hecktic than he had previously thought.

Takashi would heed the man's advice. This time, it seemed it was time he did something more. Instead of having the sword in both hands, he took up another bokken, now possessing two. Takashi blinked a moment as he looked towards the man. He allowed him a second to process that he had two swords. Of course it wasn't necessary but it was something Takashi wanted to do regardless. It seemed like it would be good if he heeded the man's advice. After all, Takehiko was taking his time to actually train Takashi and he was his cousin; it was very nice of him.

It wasn't much but he rushed forwards towards the man. So he wanted more of an advanced tactic did he? Alright why not. With his sword to his right, Takashi came in one again for his favorite slash. Stepping in with his right foot, he made a horizontal slash towards the man's right right bicep. He was also focusing on it and looking at the bicep as it was where he intended to slash. Strangely as well, Takashi didn't really stop to stand on his right foot. He kept semi loose to it as he swung. It was perhaps as though he was using it to spin. Takashi only swung the sword for a second or so before he would make his next move. It was what Takehikio-san had said so it perhaps would be what Takashi would do.

In his next movement, as the sword was swung horizontally from right to left, Takashi had pushed up on his right foot; this was the reason he hadn't fully planted it. Simultaneously, he had raised his left foot in another knee that came towards the man. It was a repeat of the last attack he made in parts. Now however, it was whole. There was one thing however that wasn't expected of this. In this attack, as Takashi had pushed off his right foot, he cut the air to push himself forward. He propelled his leg forward, quickly closing the gap. It was so his knee would be able to get only inches away from Takehiko's abdomen as it continued flying. This sure was panning out to being a great training session.

Reaitsu: 620/650 = -50 Shunpo

[Amagai Kuchiki]

It was funny, it only felt like a few weeks ago when he'd been on the other side of this spectrum, with Monarch repeatedly handing his ass to hm as he tried desperately to even score a single hit. And despite the pain and stress of that month of combat, he knew that he owed Monarch a great deal for all the assistance that he'd been given. Because the only way to avoid failure is to understand it fully, and understand how you can come close to it, but avoid quite getting to that point. Monarch's teachings were simple: Might can make right, but only if those with might are wise about it.

And now, he was the teacher, smacking around his younger cousin with Hakuda in an attempt to teach him this lesson. He would train Takashi's body, and his mind. If only he had more of an aptitude for spiritual matters, like Monarch had. This would make things a lot easier. In Takehiko's experience, Inner World training was miles better than fighting with physical bodies, since it sped up the process and removed a certain element of danger that prevented people from truly going all out. The few times that Takehiko was able to land blows on Monarch was during Inner World training, because he could afford to tank hits in order to close the gap.

However, Takehiko had been much closer to Monarch in power than Takashi was to him currently, which was surprising given the vast gap between Takehiko and his masked mentor. Takashi was weak, but even beyond how weak people typically appeared to Takehiko. Takashi was stronger than most unseated officers, but despite his prowess he would likely be physically beaten by any seated officer. Given that Takashi was described as one of the strongest in his class, Takehiko was confused and disappointed. He had a lot more ground to cover to get Takashi into a state where he was actually useful to the Kuchiki family.

However, Takashi's combat instincts were still clearly sharp. As Takehiko threw him, Takashi threw his leg outward, as if attempting a kick Takehiko midway through the movement. Unfortunately for Takashi, Takehiko didn't have the reaction time to step out of the way. Why was that unfortunate? Well, because that meant that all Takehiko could do was lock his body, and tank the blow. The effect on Takashi was instant, as his toes connected with Takehiko's chin, their difference in strength became abundantly clear, and the 700 strength gap hit Takashi hard.

It was as if the young Kuchiki had smashed his foot full force against a brick wall, albeit a brick wall that would be annoyed by such an action. His toes broke, hobbling that foot, although not stopping him from using it entirely, and made his landing significantly more painful. Takehiko was unhurt of course, much in the way that an adult couldn't be hurt by a child attempting to crush their knee in a hug, but he was clearly upset with Takashi. "That kick was reckless, especially given the difference in might between us. I will do my best to hold back against you, but I can only do so much."

However, Takehiko refrained from scolding him further as Takashi took up two bokken. A two sword style? Sozen hadn't mentioned that. A smile spread across Takehiko's face at the chance of seeing something new. "Excellent, Takashi, I will happily meet your swords and might with my own." Takehiko still did not draw his Bokken, for that was not his nature. However, his stance changed, as did the very nature of his reiatsu. Takehiko was eager to learn and face a new style, and see what Takashi was actually capable of. Because although Hakuda was futile against a physically more powerful opponent, a clash of blades always had an element of chance to it.

Takashi's approach was a straightforward one, with no step techniques involved. Slightly disappointing, but after all he was an unseated officer. In any case, it gave Takehiko plenty of time, even in the short distance, to examine what his student was planning. His right hand shifted, and Takehiko still waited. But as the right sword swung towards Takehiko's right bicep, it was intercepted by Takehiko's bokken, as solid as a wall, blocking horizontally. This type of guard would be a bad idea if Takashi was stronger than Takehiko, or even only slightly weaker, but in this case it was incredibly potent because of the vast gap in strength, and because Takashi wasn't really trying to break Takehiko's guard.

Of course Takehiko noticed the lack of force (in regards to follow through) of the swing, and lack of correct foot movements. He knew that the real attack would be coming after this one, so once the slash had lost it's force, Takehiko flicked his sword, forcing Takashi's right sword, and arm to be thrust backwards, removing them as a threat for the near future. But instead of the left slashing, as he had hoped, Takashi had gotten tricky. As his right foot pushed down, Takehiko realized that he was going to try to shunpo, and there wasn't anything he could really do to block it. So he had to dodge, but he wouldn't be able to simply side step it at base speed.

So instead, Takehiko Shunpo'd directly backwards as well, putting a great distance in-between Takashi and himself. "Very well played, Takashi. You pushing me back is definitely a point for you." Since Takashi had succeeded in doing so, however, it was time for Takehiko to put him in a more direct test. It was time to see if he could defend, as well as attack. Although his first Shunpo had effectively reset the fight, he wasn't interested in directly ending the particular clash. And so, it was time to reengage.

However, despite his intent to reengage, Takehiko remained seemingly calm and relaxed. Given that he had spent the entire fight against Takashi thus far disengaging and allowing Takashi to pick the rules of the individual skirmishes, Takashi probably wouldn't anticipate an attack, and Takehiko had no intent to tip him off until he was actually hitting his cousin. In a sudden blur of motion, Takehiko crossed the gap between the two at 6000 speed, which was 6 times faster than Takashi could've hoped to achieve even using Shunpo. While nonseated officers such as Takashi could only use Shunpo once in a short time span, Takehiko could use Shunpo up to four times in rapid succession. In this case, he had used it to reengage after using it to disengage only a few second earlier, and it was possible Takashi would be completely unaware of that capability. Regardless, it was going to be difficult for Takashi to keep up with the motions that Takehiko was going to enact.

After reengaging, Takehiko didn't give Takashi a single instant to react, and swept the Bokken hard into his legs, aiming low and starting on Takashi's left side, colliding into his calves. Of course, attacking in that direction was a bit of a bother for Takehiko, given he preferred to wear his sword on the right side, but nonetheless he swung, allowing himself to go at max speed for a moment, slipping up to 600 speed with scarcely a thought. It would be tiring, of course, but not in this short instance. Takehiko was a master of Iaijutsu, a style focused on quick draw attacks, so even if Takashi was on even grounds with his speed normally, Takehiko would have the edge in unexpected attacks.

So if the sweep connected, what would happen? Well, attacking Takashi's left side would further provoke Takashi's injury from kicking him earlier, and take out Takashi's legs from underneath him. He'd hit the ground, and would probably be confused as to what just happened, given that Takehiko wasn't giving him a second to comprehend the movement this time. After he'd hit the ground however, Takehiko wouldn't be quite done. To add insult to injury, Takehiko, once his foe was on the ground, would drive his bokken into Takashi's chest, forcing the wind out of his lungs, and accenting the current difference between them.

Reaitsu: 1900/2000 (-100 for Shunpo x2)

[Takashi Kuchiki]

The snow haired shinigami could feel the pain as he pushed up into a back flip. With his left leg out, he was spinning at the speed Takehiko had thrown him at. Blissfully unaware to the shinigami was that this superior office had a great deal of strength. Now, normally this wouldn't matter but Takehiko surely knew how to use it. Takashi felt the impact suddenly and there was nothing he could do about it really; there certainly was no time to react to all of this.

His foot cracked, there was a distinct noise of bone breaking as it hit what felt like a small protrusion made of steel. Simply by flexing, Takehiko had caused Takashi's foot to nearly shatter. It pushed him back, the pain in his leg continuing to skyrocket. However, the shinigami was still able to move albeit through the pain of his foot. He wouldn't stop there however, he vowed he would continue with this attack no matter what.

He's strong though...that Takehiko. It seems like his entire body is quick and strong. He's so fast I won't be able to see him coming at all. Then there is the fact that my foot is shattered a bit from the initial flip...that really freaking hurt. It looks like I'll have to do my best to actually continue this fight. Alright, I'll go ahead and make my move now then. Takehiko...be ready, this next attack will definitely take you off guard

"I understand Fukutaichou-san. It was not my intention to make such a foolish attack. In my haste, I had figured that my foot would be able to connect with your lower jaw. However, It seems I had completely underestimated the full extent of your strength within that moment; please forgive me for this". Takashi said as he bowed to the man for a moment. Still, he was able to look down at his foot and see it was visibly swollen; oh well.

With that, Takashi would make his move. The tricky way he swung his sword and then used shunpo to move his knee in closer was definitely clever. It was even enough to push the Fukutaichou backwards and made him even compliment Takashi. Inside, he was bursting with joy but it seemed as though the man had something more planned than this. There was definitely a different atmosphere around Takehiko as he took the offensive; it was unlike anything Takashi had experienced before.

He couldn't even see his movements, they were far too quick for him to fully comprehend what was going on. Even when he moved, disengaging his flash step, it was too quick for the man to fully notice. There was definitely something up with this man's speed, he was far quicker than anyone he had seen move before. There was a sudden hard hit to his left side. He only saw perhaps a blur of Takehiko as he executed what was next.

The hard attack smashed against his left half and gave him momentum, sending him hurling down towards the ground. The attack was enough to push Takashi's left leg into his right, causing him to sweep. In addition, with such strength, it was enough to where there was yet another crack that emitted from the man's left foot. It caused him to stumble so much, kicking out his right foot too and making him easily lose his balance and his footing.

With a loud thud and an 'ugh!' Takashi crashed into the ground. His head hit the ground a bit as did his left shoulder. He could feel the daze clouding his mind as he landed on his head. However, he didn't exactly have time to take in his surroundings. Before he knew it there was something else that was coming towards him.So this is the difference between us? This huge gap where a Fukutaichou can easily push me to the ground?

---

Flashback

"P-please give that back!"

There he was again, the small chibi Takashi with his chubby cheeks, long white hair and beautiful blue eyes. His snow white hair was complimented by the falling of the small round flakes that fell from the heavens and accumulated on the ground. Takashi stood in the midst of it right outside an old beaten up large wooden building. Behind it however, was a towering metallic structure that appeared to be a jail cell. He had on only a scarf, mittens, boots that were torn up and another layer of rags.

Standing in front of him were other boys with different colored hair. There were also some girls who wore equally rag-ish type clothing. In the hands of one of the boys was something the other kids were crowded around. They began laughing as the one boy read aloud. "I'll save you! Yelled Mr. Magnificent! He used his magna-ray to attack the evil villian!-Bahahhaaha" He laughed hysterically.

The other kids joined in as they scanned the book as well. They began to snicker as they looked towards the book. "What kind of crappy book is this? Its just some guy in stupid underwear that he can't stupidly wear right! He shoots beams from his eyes? That is stupid! How can he even see! He doesn't have a cool power like shooting fire from his body. Or if he could produce a giant tank and ride in it or something".

"Why does he look like that? Ew, he's so gross!". "Haha! He looks like Snowy over there! Mr. Lame-man!". The other children started laughing at the joke. On the other side however, it appeared as though the smal Takashi was not amused. He had his arms folded and he was breathing out the cold air. He was clearly cold but he wantd to show that he was a man and can withstand it like the others.

"I-I'm not like that! Mr. Magnificent is...is really cool! He saves people and does good things! I think that he is a good hero! I- I think when I grow up I'm going to be like him!". Takashi spoke in a rather 'absolute' type manner. However, this bravery seemed to make the other kids angry, especially the one holding the comic book. What he did next was toss it down onto the ground and step on it multiple times.

"You think you have something outside of here!? This is where we will be. It is where they send people who don't love us! You think you're a super hero!? They don't exist stupid!". "They do! Mr. Magnificent saves everyone!". The little Takashi protested. "Okay then! Let's see if he's real then! Get'em!". The main boy pointed towards Takashi. Suddenly there were two other boys who rushed towards the boys side and grasped on to his arms, not letting him go.

Confused, Takashi looked around and was about to cry out for help. However, he got kneed right in the stomach. It caused him to let out an 'ugh!' before falling to his knees. He then felt another punch that came to the left of his temple, disorienting his vision. He fell to the ground as some blood spattered out. He felt a sudden pain in his lower abdomen that just wouldn't go away. It was then that he felt another kick that stomped down hard onto his chest.

The kick was so powerful and Takashi was so young that it actually caused the air from his lungs to escape him. He felt the pressure and it was overwhelming. His energy left him in that very moment. A second later, he would feel some more kicks hitting him on the left and the right; causing him a great deal of pain. "Let's see if your hero comes to save you! Right!? If he is real then he should come! Come out hero! Come out!"

The other kids started chanting that as well. However, there was a scream that came from one of the girls, apparently she didn't like seeing blood. EEEEEEYEAAAAAHHH!!" she screamed out. A moment later a staff member came out to see what was going on. "What is all this fuss about! What are you two boys do-". The woman looked at the scene, she was tall and had on black clothing, her hair was tightly kept into a bun and pulled back. She wore glasses that were ground, she seemed genuinely concerned for a moment.

However, as the crowd parted, there was Takashi there again. Her worry melted and became something of disappointed mixed with anger. "What? Takashi again!? Causing trouble. How many times do we have to put you in the no lights time out zone? You got out yesterday and you're already picking fights? Tch, come on children. As for you, you get to stay out here. Maybe the cold will dull your hot blood..now come along everyone, we have soup waiting."

The woman instructed. As the crowd parted one of the kids spit on Takashi, it landed on his cheek. The red liquid coated the white floor that was under him. He felt cold...so cold. His body was aching from all the damage he had sustained being beaten up so badly.Soon, everyone was gone, going inside for warmth and it was isolation again for Takashi. The snow was falling and his eyes closed. In that moment, he wished so badly....that he would just....die.

---

Present:There was a stabbing motion that Takashi was able to see; just barely; however he was still dazed. The sword came in at full speeds aimed towards Takashi's mid section. Takashi's hands had been near his mid section with the fall. However, it was not enough to block out the hard hit that came crashing down from his left. He instantly felt the pain of it push the air from his lungs. Though shear willpower, he decided he would continue in that moment.

There was something about getting the air knocked out of him that triggered bad memories. Blood splattered out from the snow haired shinigami's mouth. With his hands only inches to centimeters away, Takashi simply hugged on to the bokken, holding it in place, gripping it as tight as he could. It was through the shear power of his will that he was able to do this. He hated having this feeling and something in him just...clicked.

He didn't make any more movements than that, it was simply his blue diamond like eyes staring intently at Takehiko. He simply was holding onto his weapon as the blood ran down his mouth. His eyes narrowed upon him. "Takehiko...-san". He said as he coughed up blood. He turned his head slightly, the contraction of his coughs were obviously painful. However, even as he turned his head he would still be looking at Takehiko until he turned back to speak to him once more. Even though he was down, he wished to speak.

"I do not wish to lose...ever again. Not to anyone...Takehiko-san. I will win..I will defeat...you...". It was then that he trailed off. He let go of the sword and then his head fell to the ground. He was breathing heavily, yet one eye was still open as he was looking towards the Fuku-taichou. Something he had done had triggered some memories in Takashi. Whatever they were, it had fired him up completely.

[Amagai Kuchiki]

"This time, I want you to stay down." Takehiko stared at his teacher, bewildered. "Come again? Why on earth would I do that? I can still fight." "Takehiko, if you stand back up again, I will remove your arm. I won't break it, I'll flat out remove it. You won't die of bloodlust, but you will never be able to fight again. So are you going to stand back up?" Takehiko took a deep breath, then let it go, shaking slightly. Perhaps Monarch hadn't realized it, or perhaps he did, but he'd touched on a major fear of Takehiko's. "No, I will not." 

"Good, then you understand the basics of today's lesson. You may stand up, and keep your arm as you do so. Today, we will be working to understand an old adage: Know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em, know when to walk away, know when to run. Takehiko, you only seem to be able to do the first one. Perhaps the third, admittedly I haven't seen you in a situation when it was an option. One of your core problems, as an individual and as a fighter, is you are unwilling to ever back down." Monarch crossed his arms, as if awaiting a response from Takehiko.

"There is no honor in fleeing, sensei." As soon as the words came out of Takehiko's mouth, soon as he saw Monarch's eyes starting to drift more red, a color that had become very well known to Takehiko as a warning that he was about to be taught a lesson, verbally or physically. "Takehiko, let us return in memory to your early career in the Gotei 13. You fought several people, correct? Let's say, in one of those fights, you realized that there was an opening. One chance at victory against a far greater foe.

"However, this chance will come at the cost of your sword arm. Not might, but will. Recovery from it isn't certain. Landing this one blow against a foe will win you the fight, but lose you the arm. Is it a good trade?" "Of course not!" "But why? It'll bring you a great deal of honor. Besides, not taking that hit will lose you the fight, and force you to back down." "The honor I would have acquired back then is miniscule to the honor I have accumulated since then. The loss of potential is much worse than the honor gained."

"Precisely. Fleeing can be honorable, if it preserves the pursuit of later honor. Just like in chess, you must give up some pieces in order to win the game as a whole. You must appear to be losing to a casual glance in order to create perfect traps. Honor should never be witnessed in a micro sense, only in a macro one. Will this action eventually lead me to glory? Or will it lead me to my death?" Monarch paced slightly, lost in thought. "Part of every fight is learning to acknowledge when you must stay lying on the ground, because it's only by losing a fight with grace that you ensure your later victories. Promise me, Takehiko, that you will not risk your own life simply for glory?"

And he had made Monarch that promise, because he owed his master that much. Of course, what Takehiko hadn't promised Monarch was that he wouldn't risk his own life for the Kuchiki. If it ever came down to it, Takehiko was more than willing to give up everything he held dear in order to preserve and save his family. Especially Sozen. Sozen's word was law in the eyes of Takehiko, which is why he was helping Takashi in the first place. And this desire to help, to assist in Takashi's growth and improvement, was why Takehiko now refused to continue.

With a clean movement, Takehiko stepped back and brought his Bokken back to rest at his side. The fact that Takashi was this thoroughly injured, and yet wouldn't admit defeat, was upsetting to say the least, and Takehiko's body movements suggested it. His shoulder's were slightly dropped, and the smile had vanished from his face and eyes. His guard had dropped, because the fight was clearly over. Takashi couldn't hurt a child in his current state, much less Takehiko. And yet he was continuing to boast and brag.

"My final lesson to you, today, Takashi-san, is that to seek victory after you have lost is a far greater shame than simply falling. You insult your opponent by fighting with a damaged weapon, you insult those you would protect by trying helpless to protect them, and you insult your own body by forcing it to the point of uselessness. Be humble. Accept your loss now, and come for your victory later. For it is the final battle that matters, not the battles before then." He stepped away, and began to walk. "Please, try not to move, I will acquire a Squad Four medic for you. Your movement will further your injuries, and possibly ruin your career. I will not forgive you if you chose to do that." And with those words, Takehiko walked away to find someone capable of healing his cousin back to full health.

[Takashi Kuchiki]

Takashi's breathing became irregular as he held onto the edge of the wooden bokken. His eyes fixated upon the man who seemed far more disappointed in him than not. As the red liquid of life flowed from Takashi's mouth he stared at the man. There was intent there but there was also a hint of anger at his loss. It was obvious though, the class difference between the two was beyond him. In addition, there was so much more experience on the part of the Fukutaichou.

Takashi listened intently as the man spoke about him losing now. It pained the snow haired shinigami to hear, but Takehiko was right, he did lose. He hadn't thought about insulting others with his actions before. His weapon was it? His body? Being helpless? He didn't want to feel those things anymore. Takashi didn't wish to be helpless nor did he wish to lose to anyone. Though, Takaehiko had another point, it made sense that retreat was the best option for now.

"Fuku-....taichou..." Takashi's breathing was irregular. The pain he felt throughout his body was unlike anything before he had faced before. Though, he pushed through it, looking towards Takehiko. "take-hiko..-san. What I wished to say before...was that I will defeat you... As you said however -cough-...it may not be soon. However, I promise you...it will be one day...In my quest to become known as the strongest...I shall do my best to defeat you first...to learn more...then I shall come back to you...fuku-taichou..

Takashi's voice was soft and weak. Obviously the damage he had sustained had been quite a substantial amount. He attempted to swallow the ball in his throat, losing was something that he would keep with him. For the first time in a while he wanted to get much much MUCH stronger than he was now. Perhaps it was that this was his first loss since joining the Gotei 13...or perhaps it was also that that moment reminded him of something from his past...but he knew he hated it.

Takashi watched Takehiko walk away from him. It was strange, as the man walked, it was as though that was the gap between them; Takashi laying on the floor, and Takehiko walking away. The further he walked, symbolic of the difference between the two men. So this...this is what a Vice Captain was capable of. The newly recruited shinigami and Kuchiki simply looked at the man's back and that is all he saw as he walked away from him.

There was some words he uttered, it was for Takashi not to move. It was at least very nice of the man to actually acquire someone from the medic division for him. He was right now, Takashi could feel it. If he moved even an inch, things would turn for the worst. Instead, he simply listened to the man's words as he said he would not forgive him. Takashi remained silent during that time. It had been a while since he wanted to defeat someone.

A moment later, there was a sudden sensation that rocked throughout the man's mind and body. This pain was unlike anything that he had felt. It was as though Takehiko's hits were just now registering within him. It was most likely due to the adrenaline that was allowing him to keep on fighting. As it hit, the pain surged through the man's body and he was unable to handle it any longer. His eyes closed as he began to fade in and out of consciousness.

This is the difference between us is it? Takehiko is this much stronger than me. I foolishly thought I could bridge this gap with shear skill. However, I was caste aside like I was nothing. This loss...this pain...I want to get stronger. Much MUCH stronger..I'll do it and I'll defeat him!. With that, Takashi would begin slowly passing out until he could take no more. The pain was too intense and he now fell unconscious. The fight was over...he had lost.

[Kyomei Kuchiki]

+420 TP to Takashi
+400 TP to Takehiko