A Whole New World [Joint Training]

[Sozen Kuchiki]

Himitsu posed a good question. Why had the Segunda survived? At the end of his battle with Kuroi, Sozen had spared the Segunda. In the battle report, it had stated that though Kuroi had been beaten, Sozen's injuries were grave, and to try to end it there would have resulted in probably death. Keeping his family in mind, Sozen had left Kuroi beaten down to be found by his allies, and retreated to the Soul Society to receive healing. Most people had bought it. The Captain Commander had assumed that Sozen had just left Kuroi alive as a favor to Kenryoku, who was difficult to please. But Himitsu didn't seem to buy it. So, Sozen calculated that telling the truth was wise here. Or, at least, part of it.

"Kuroi is not fully loyal to Sonken Kouhai," Sozen informed Himitsu. "Kuroi has the best interest of Las Noches in mind right now, and he has allied with Kouhai because of strength. Right now, Kouhai is a beacon of power, but Kuroi suspects that in the near future, this will no longer be true. Now, as it happens, Kuroi has a secret that I learned. It is my leverage, and it is in Kuroi's best interest not to allow Kouhai to learn it, or he will lose his advantage over the King of Las Noches." Sozen trailed off, hoping that Himitsu was starting to form some sort of picture here to go off of.

"I am eventually going to kill Sonken Kouhai myself, so technically it would not matter. However, defeating Sonken Kouhai is no easy matter. In fact, it might be safer to assume that he is much more powerful than I am. By my calculations, Sonken Kouhai alone can defeat all of our Captains below Kyousou Ningen solo. In other words, from me all the way to Francis Grin, Kouhai can take on all of us. This is why I need Kuroi. I have leverage over him. As long as I have this, Kuroi will become a part of our attacking force during the final battle with Kouhai. In other words, I spared the Segunda because at the end of our great war with Las Noches, it is Kuroi whose blade will finish off our greatest enemy, Sonken Kouhai."

There was also the part about Sozen being interested in protecting his family and having Kuroi stay away from them and do favors for them, but these reasons were a bit more selfish, and it sounded better to say that Kouhai, who had always been a beacon of the invincible for them, would die more easily if Kuroi helped. And, technically, Kuroi would. Sozen did intend to have Kuroi be the one to carry out the sentence over Sonken Kouhai. When that was over, Sozen could kill Kuroi and that would be that. Kuroi would be exhausted from the battle and likely covered in blood. For now, however, taking out Sonken Kouhai was very important.

---

One week later.

"No, of course not," Sozen replied to Shokan's entry with a smile. "My greetings, Shokan Kawada." Unlike Shokan, who went with a last name basis, Sozen utilized the full name, indicating two things. The first was acknowledgment of who the person was. The second indicated rank. If they were going to talk about rankings, Sozen could address Shokan as he pleased right now. "Lord Kawada" made no sense, because Shokan was no longer Head. He may be former Head, but in today's day and age, Katrina Kawada led the family. Until Shokan addressed this, in the event that he wanted leadership, then he wouldn't be capable of the title "Lord Kawada," as it would imply disrespect toward Katrina.

When it came to these formalities of the nobility, Sozen was the master of it. It wasn't only that he was a master, but he was the most renowned of all authorities on it. The Kuchiki were and always had been the most powerful noble family, no matter who had been Head, and they were also the oldest of the noble families. They had practically invented today's mannerisms. And, not only was Sozen the head of this monolith of strength, but he was a Captain, and at that, he was the strongest Captain. He had overcome both Segunda and even Primera, feats that many others, even fellow Captains, could only ever dream of.

Now, Sozen also wasn't the only one in the room either. There was Himitsu, in other words his Lieutenant, and one other. The "other" actually resembled Sozen a great deal, save for the outfit being some kind of tightly woven leather battle armor, or if not leather perhaps a reinforced cloth with mithril within. Something of the sort. The figure was dressed in black, and, honestly, looked much like a younger version of the Kuchiki Head, with fair features, and daring scarlet eyes. However, these glowed a bit more than Sozen's, and were of a different gaze. Sozen was unreadably warm, while this young one, physically 19 and therefore still a boy, was unreadably cold.

But, their smiles weren't terribly different. As the young man regarded Shokan, he smiled, stood, and his eyes widened a bit not in surprise, but in admiration, or something of the sort. "The one who came from the past..." he mused. He was gauging Shokan as he watched. "Interesting," the young man said. He was authoritative. Something about him was very intense, and just speaking to him made anyone feel like they were talking to a king or something like that. Some authority they couldn't comprehend. But he did not address Shokan Kawada directly yet. "I must be retiring to my mission now," the young man said to Sozen. And, with a bow to Sozen, Himitsu, and then Shokan, the young man departed, disappearing quickly.

Whoever it was, Sozen made no mention of it, or even really give any indication that it had really happened. What had actually happened was the young man had been briefing Sozen on the formation of a unit he hoped to use to deal with some of Seireitei's enemies. Himitsu had already been in the room at this time, for before the briefing, they had been researching known associates of Ran'Tao, seeking connections which would help to understand who might want to sabotage her. That was when the boy had appeared and given his report, followed by Shokan walking in, and the young man leaving, as if he had never been there.

"I take it the both of you have interest in learning from me how to fight the Segunda," Sozen said, including Himitsu as well. It was true that both Himitsu and Shokan had a vendetta against Kuroi. In fact, everyone had some kind of vendetta against Kuroi. After all of the horrible things he had done. After all the people he had killed? Kuroi was someone who had a lot of enemies. Sozen was one of them, but Sozen did have a use for the Segunda's life, too, and it was even more necessary than Kuroi's death, for the betterment of Soul Society. For now, that was why Kuroi had really survived.

[Amagai Kuchiki]

110 paragraphs = 550 CTP to Himitsu and Shokan, 550 TTP to Sozen

[Sozen Kuchiki]

OOC: Wait, graded? We're not done, are we? XD

[Himitsu Kasumi'Oji]

Was it bad that Himitsu didn’t like Sozen’s answer? He couldn’t challenge it, but he didn’t like it. Using Kuroi would be a good idea if an option wasn’t killing him in the first place. Or at least capturing him and making sure he wasn’t wrecking havoc in corners of Soul Society or the Human World. Kuroi was too dangerous to be left unchecked. Himitsu understands that Soken Kouhai is a far greater enemy and Kuroi’s assistance may be key but… how many more lives will the Segunda be able to take before he was deleted permanently?

And so for the next week, a lot was on Himitsu’s mind. In his book, anyone who lets Kuroi live is a bad man but Sozen disproved that theory. The Captain was more accomplished than any of his peers in defending Soul Society, be it from the Vandenreich, Espada, or Vizards. So what was good or evil? People argued that it was subjective, but that didn’t make sense. Things will always be defined, even those that fall in the grey area. It all depends on how close or far they are in the grey area to the borders, and if they’re in the dead center, they might as well be considered bad.

Himitsu knew himself to be good, just weak. Sozen seemed to be good, though he danced dangerously close to grey. Shokan… he seemed good. Himitsu couldn’t be sure, but the man’s goals were moral. He cared for his family, just as Sozen did. He also seeks to defeat Kuroi, just as Himitsu does. But his morality will only be tested later if Himitsu has the opportunity to fight him. Combat was the best way to put someone’s character on the board and examine every aspect of it. Every action spoke for itself, and Himitsu’s power helped him decide what type of people he was dealing with.

Himitsu had been spending quite some time with his Captain since Shokan had appeared. They had researched the matter in great detail together, spending long nights bent over their desks while analyzing old reports and paperwork from Shokan’s time with extreme scrutiny. Every other night, he would put all his obligations on hold and work with his captain on the matter for hours at a time. They also collaborated on other large tasks the squad was responsible for overseeing and just minor matters within the division. Shokan’s appearance had really strengthened the relationship between the two.

But there was a matter of Sozen’s son, Souza. He seemed… different. He wasn’t a bad guy as far as Himitsu could tell, but was he a good guy? He always seemed a little distant. Not unfocussed, unrelatable. And if he could back up his reputations and confidence, he didn’t need to be relatable, but it was difficult for Himitsu to get an understanding of who Souza was as a person.

Shokan Kawada’s entrance interrupted Himitsu’s train of thought and prompted Souza’s exit. Sozen and Himitsu both had been expecting Shokan Kawada to seek a meeting with them since they dropped him off at the new Kawada headquarters. Sozen was quick to address the reason why, bringing Himitsu into the matter as well. ”I take it that the both of you have an interest in learning from me how to fight the Segunda.”

Right to the point, just how Himitsu liked it. “Not just the Segunda, Sozen-sama. I think I can speak for the both of us when I say that Shokan and I need to acquire a greater strength overall. Although taking Kuroi’s life is a priority, we have other ambitions we want to achieve and things, places, people we want to defend. Teach us how shatter our current limits.”

[Shōkan Kawada Ⅺ]

"No, of course not," Sozen replied to Shokan's entry with a smile. "My greetings, Shokan Kawada." His reply was to be expected, anything else would have been unusual, so Shōkan continued on, nodding politely to Himitsu, "Vice-Captain." He then turned towards the other individual in the room. If Shōkan had only had a brief glimpse of him, he could have easily mistaken him for Sozen. The hair, the face, the complexion, it was all extremely similar... Except for the eyes, while they possesed the same calculating, intelligent glint that Sozen's possesed, this man's eyes were cold where Sozen's were warm. Shōkan was immediately wary of him, he was not all that he seemed.

"The one who came from the past..." the man mused, looking at Shōkan with an interested gaze. "Interesting," the young man said. His voice carried with it the connotations of a ruler, an individual who was born to power, raised on it, and had never known the abscence of it... Interesting... "I must be retiring to my mission now," With that, the young man left, leaving the trio alone in the room. Shōkan's mind was briefly caught in a trance for a moment, his mind stuck in old places, with ancient memories... That young man was familiar... Somehow... Yet Shōkan couldn't quite place his finger on it. Because of his being lost in thought, he only barely caught the next exchange of words.

"I take it the both of you have interest in learning from me how to fight the Segunda," Sozen was right, that was a part of it. That was only half of his reason however. Shōkan had learned much in the past weeks, about the history of the past thousand years, and more importantly, the most recent events that had accosted the Soul Society so badly. At the center of most of the stories was this man. Powerful, influential, he seemed one of the few current captains that had a true grasp of leadership at the moment. This was someone that could help with Shōkan's real goal. Killing the segunda wasn't Shōkan's first priority, while it was important, and the man would die, it was not first and foremost.

That being the revival of the Kawada Clan. Shade, Kenryoku, and Katrina had started it, each being a stepping stone increasing the clan's power and prestige back to its previous heights increment by increment, they still weren't there however. As it was, they were weaker than ever, not even fielding a single captain... Somethign must be done, and Shōkan was the man to do it. From what he had seen of her, Katrina was a pleasant enough girl, but she simply didn't have enough power, the maturity, the skill, the loyalty... Well, enough of any of the traits required to lead the clan. Much less restore it. As it was, Shōkan was prepared to assume control of the clan himself. Technically he had a better claim to leading it that Katrina did in the first place, not to mention being much more qualified. It was what was best for the clan, and that was what was most important to Shōkan.

To this end, there was Sozen. Before any of this occured, he wanted t speak with him. Frankly, while Arashi had been a tremendous help in adjusting, and he genuinly liked the man, seeing him as the brother he never had, Arashi didn't have much of a grasp of politics, or the current political view of the Soul Society. So Shōkan came to the only acquaintance he had that would... Sozen. After they went through Sozen's knowledge on the Segunda, Shōkan planned to ask for a private conversation with the man... Without his Vice-Captain there. Not that he had anythign against Himitsu, this was simply a bit of a personal matter. Before he could speak to Sozen however, Himitsu spoke up.

“Not just the Segunda, Sozen-sama. I think I can speak for the both of us when I say that Shokan and I need to acquire a greater strength overall. Although taking Kuroi’s life is a priority, we have other ambitions we want to achieve and things, places, people we want to defend. Teach us how shatter our current limits.” ... Now that... irked Shōkan more than a bit. Ever since he had come back, people had been assuming that because of his weakness, he was no longer the man he was. He needed to be trained, he needed a mentor. No. Shōkan knew his limits, he knew exactly what he had to do. He had hundreds of years of experience, and a further thousand years to mull over each and every battle, or decision he had ever made. Shōkan didn't need to be taught, he knew enough already. He didn't need a mentor, he already had training plans in mind. What he needed, was allies, collegues, compatriots.

Shōkan allowed a brief flicker of annoyance to cover his face, showing his displeasure at the Vice-Captains impertinence. He didn't let it linger however, and simply let the matter slide. it wasn't Himitsu's fault that this had been happening more and more lately now was it? Turning to Sozen, Shōkan began speaking. "What I want, Kuchiki-dono, is knowledge. Knowledge of Kuroi certainly, but also on anything in this current time you feel to be pertinent... Although I would not be opposed to some training if that is what you wish, I've been training non-stop since my return, and my muscles have finally stopped being sore..." Shōkan let a grin touch upon his face "I find that deplorable."

OOC: Training for TTP

[Sozen Kuchiki]

You are the greatest and most successful of all Kuchiki Heads in history. Today, not even the Parable of Nine Flags can hold even a candlestick to the Crimson King. To allow the Kuchiki family to fall into a state any less than what you have made of it would be disgraceful for your successor, yet any ordinary successor after you is destined to fall short of what you have accomplished. That is why I will surpass you, first. To have you simply retire and hand me the reigns would be insulting to both of us and to our family name. No, I will accumulate not only strength of my own, but resources and allies, and when you hand the family to me, it will be because I conquered you. I will make this family even greater than you have, but first, I will defeat you.

Two people who wanted very similar things, yet to different ends. How interesting... They reminded Sozen of those words that his son had said to him not long ago. His son, whose obsession with excellence and victory would drive him not to accept merely inheriting the mantle which Sozen now wore, but which dictated that he should grow himself and all around him, to the point where he would be able to take from Sozen that mantle. It was nothing short of admirable. And these two men, here and now, reminded Sozen of that ambition of his son. The ambition to do truly great things, or to die gloriously seeking them.

Very interesting. Two people who wanted very similar things. One who wanted to protect all, and sought power which he did not have. The other, who wanted to protect his family and his legacy, and sought knowledge to replace the power he once possessed. Sozen could indeed help the both of these men, and in such similar ways. But what neither knew was the extent of Sozen Kuchiki's resources, and what he could do for the both of them, as long as they remained his allies. Himitsu was his Lieutenant, and would of course remain his ally. Shokan, Sozen would need to win over. As long as the Kawada ancestor was reasonable, this was a simple matter.

Words resonated within Sozen's mind from his very son. Be mindful of Shokan Kawada and Himutsu Misute. Though one is a relic from a time before yours, and one a baby to evolve into a time after, both will be a part not of your legacy, but of my new generation of Captains. They will still exist when I remove you from your seat, for they will be part of my plan, and my victory over our enemies. He found his son's challenges amusing. All too amusing. "Very well," Sozen acquiesced to the both of the men standing before him. "I will assist you in your quest to protect. You are both strong, in your own ways, but it's amazing what another set of eyes can do. Watch, as we train, and you will see... You're strong, but you can make yourselves better, still."

Sozen spoke to both men, and afterward, would lead them out into a courtyard for training. It was a very wide, expansive space, with no obstacles. It was more or less just a flat area with no hidden tricks. It was here that he would teach them. Himitsu, he would impart knowledge of how to become more powerful. Shokan, he would impart knowledge of how to counter what he would find in today's world, for a modern battle was of a much higher caliber than anything from Shokan's time. Drawing his sword out, Sozen's elegant, beautiful Zanpakuto glinted in the sunlight overhead of their lovely, desolate, bright blue sky.

"There is much to discuss," Sozen said. "So while the two of you come at me simultaneously, we will talk." The Kuchiki Head's scarlet eyes fell first on Himitsu, and then on Shokan. He expected them to both come at him, either working together or separately. This was because in truth, neither of them was anywhere near Captain level. To have it be a 1 v 1 v 1 was foolish. Without their having teamwork, Sozen would simply overwhelm both. As it was, he likely still would. Sozen observed Himitsu and Shokan. Upon their first opening attacks, Sozen would continue to speak to the both of them.

From first clash with Himitsu: "I have observed that you are troubled by what we discussed the other day," Sozen said. "But what is justice, good, and evil are all notions which are defined by society. One would be correct in thinking that they aren't a matter of opinion. Your society has dictated standards which are correct fundamentals of justice. And that is why I made the choice that I did. For by society and by my standards, we must protect this place, the Soul Society, and as many of our comrades and loved ones as we can. We are not strong enough to protect everyone. Therefore, I made a choice. The few... Or all of us? You, too, must make that choice, or else defy the impossible and become so powerful that you do not need to."

From first clash with Shokan: "You believe yourself to be sufficient. I can see it in the confident way in which you hold yourself. And I will admit, you were strong. But a thousand years of suspension have made you weak. No matter what is in your memory, the enemies of today are more powerful than anything you have ever faced. The Espada. The Vandenreich. The God of Murder himself. To fight them, you will need to train. You need to become stronger than you were at your peak. And to do that, you require combat against someone as strong as myself, or even stronger. Otherwise, once you do encounter Kuroi, there will be no competition."

[Himitsu Kasumi'Oji]

Himitsu was no genius when it came to reading other people’s emotions, but he knew Shokan wasn’t exactly happy with Himitsu. He actually never seemed to act friendly with the Lieutenant. He was always addressing his questions to Sozen and almost ignored Himitsu’s presence, but when the Vice Captain spoke on his behalf, possibly incorrectly, he showed his displeasure. For some reason, Himitsu was upset to find that Shokan wasn’t his biggest fan.

But the previous Kawada head was definitely determined and hardworking. He had been training consistently since his return rather than seeing the new world for what it is, and showed dedication. However, he was too proud. Knowledge wouldn’t help him in his current condition, and he seemed to find Sozen’s mentorship secondary to any information on Kuroi. If he didn’t have so much pride, he might have been more eager to use the resources he has at his disposal to climb back to his former level.

Luckily, Sozen had no problem instructing either in combat. In fact, he seemed even a little excited to work with them, though it wasn’t easy to derive “excitement” from Sozen’s expression or tone. Himitsu just pulled that based off his words. The Kuchiki head had a habit of making ‘projects’ out of people and seeing how strong he can make them. He did it with Hotaru and Takashi, and now Himitsu and Shokan are his latest two undertakings.

When the small part arrived at the training ground, Sozen seemed to request that Himitsu and Shokan partner together and launch a dual attack at Sozen. However, there were several reasons why no such thing would happen. Firstly, Shokan didn’t seem to like Himitsu. That much was clear. Secondly, Himitsu had something to prove to Sozen and Shokan. He wanted to show his individual strength, and if he could land a hit, he didn’t want Shokan to take any credit. The Kawada would have to respect Himitsu and acknowledge the significance of his strength.

And so Himitsu decided to make the first move before Shokan had even responded to Sozen’s suggestion. His body let out a pulse of reiatsu, one that moved at a speed of 800 and moved far beyond Sozen. In fact, it went out for a quarter of a mile. However, the pulse didn’t do anything. It was simply a sensory technique that allowed Himitsu to keep track of his surroundings. It would let him scan the interior of Sozen and Shokan’s bodies while moving right past them.

However, there was a trick to it. Himitsu had a certain mastery of Kido, and because of his expertise with spells, he developed a technique he had yet to reveal to anyone. Shunsui had seen it once, but even he couldn’t have been sure what it was Himitsu had done. The Vice Captain called his secret move Lineage of Reiatsu, because it required enough indepth understanding of one’s own spells to be able to use a Kido technique through another technique. Essentially, he could have his attacks originate from any outer source of his reiatsu.

So when the harmless Spiritual Pulse passed Sozen by and moved just behind his back, an inche away from the captain, Himitsu’s real attack would come into play. Bakudo #1: Sho. A invisible force, which made no sound what-so-ever and moved at an incredibly fast speed, would strike Sozen from behind a split second after it was formed. After all, with only one-inche between it and its target, the technique would be virtually impossible to avoid without any energy sensory or other means of knowing of its existence. If Sho hit, the captain would be shoved from behind without any warning.

If Sozen tried to use Shunpo to get away before the technique could be used, Himitsu would simply delay the combination the second he felt Sozen’s reiatsu spike as his weight switched onto one foot, a sign of a step technique. However, the odds that Sozen would find danger from a harmless technique like spiritual pulse was extremely low, and he couldn’t have any prior knowledge about the technique Himitsu himself had invented. Could the legendary Sozen Kuchiki still overcome this challenge?

Regardless of the result of Himitsu’s attack, he would still reply the same way to his captain. “How are moral terms like Good and Evil absolute relative to our society when a significant percentage of Shinigami, especially those who hold high ranks, neglect their moral obligations in favor of their own personal benefits? I’ve worked under Captain Raion, who spent far less time working hard and saving innocent souls than drinking and partying. Kagami Murai? The same. Taiho Kasumi’Oji? Her ‘private business’ in the Black Market and Underworld isn’t exactly a secret, yet she’s still a captain in the Gotei 13, but does she actually care about protecting the Human World? If these are the people who define Justice, then I’m the bad guy.”

Himitsu was angry. Throughout his speech, his voice escalated to a borderline shout. He didn’t mean to direct his rage at Sozen, but he just couldn’t keep his thoughts to himself all the time. Himitsu could keep a level head when he wanted to, but now wasn’t the time to worry about losing political points with his captain or Shokan. He was real, now. No hiding his emotions. No mind games. This was Himitsu Misute, as straightforward as ever, and he was frustrated.

“You know about all of this, Sozen. You’ve been around longer than any current Captain. You know what’s been troubling me for so long. You know why I want to get stronger. I need to make sure all of my allies are people I can trust and count on, and that’s why our conversation unsettled me. There’s a lot more gray than there is black and white, and it's getting hard to tell the difference.”

All of the walls were being torn down. Himitsu decided that it was time to break down those barriers and have legitimate conversations. He wanted to make personal progress during this training session. And so the Lieutenant looked over to Shokan Kawada. “Look, maybe I’m wrong but I’ve got a feeling that I’m not your favorite person. You might hate me for personal reasons, and I’ve got to live with that, but at least let me know if you agree with me. I need to know who my real allies are, people I can call and rely on to make the right decisions. Are you the type of guy who fights for the good of everyone, or are you solely set on getting revenge on Kuroi? There’s a difference between fighting a single battle or launching a war. Kuroi is just one battle.”

Reiatsu Remaining: 2775/3000 (-50 for Spiritual Pulse, -25 for Sho, -150 for Lineage of Reiatsu)

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats and Skills}

Strength - [100] Points (60)

Speed - [300] Points

Spiritual Pressure - [300] Points

Reiatsu Strength - [400] Points (700)

Light Aura - [90] Points

Dark Aura - [10] Points

Instinct - [100] Points

Senses - [150] Points

Energy sensory - [50] Points

Healing Expertise - [0] Points

Total SP: [1400] Points

Abilities

• Mental Incantation Level 3

• Weapon: Staff Level 3

• Battle Analysis Level 3

• Battle Skill: Kido Level 3

• Strength of Will Level 3

[Shōkan Kawada Ⅺ]

As Sozen led them towards the courtyard for training, Shōkan was lost in thought of the man he had met in the office. He seemed familiar... There was something about him that Shōkan simply couldn't place, be it the way he held himself, the angle of the jaw, the power of his gaze. It reminded Shōkan of the few times he met his father, of the few times he had met those his father protected. Before Shōkan's suspicions could bear fruit, they arrived at the training grounds. "Very well," Sozen acquiesced to the both of the men standing before him. "I will assist you in your quest to protect. You are both strong, in your own ways, but it's amazing what another set of eyes can do. Watch, as we train, and you will see... You're strong, but you can make yourselves better, still."

'Heh, me? Strong? How humorous.' For some reason, Shōkan found Sozen's statement regarding his strength amusing. Sure, compared to your average shinigami, Shōkan was considerably powerful. But comparing to him to captains, vice-captains, or even most seated officers was laughable. Shōkan was weak. As he stood now, he was a fraction of a fraction, a shadow hidden behind a glimmer, of his former self. And that was the reason why Shōkan was here. He knew how to regain some of his strength, the same way he gained them to begin with. The problem was that Shōkan didn't have decades to spare training back all of that skill. Shōkan needed power fast, and while normally he wasn't fond of taking the shortcut, he would have to swallow his pride and take it for now.

To this end he was training with the most powerful person he knew of at the moment. Soon enough Shōkan would have to address his lack of release. Without Shikai or Bankai, Shōkan would have to train his body to extreme levels to compensate. Also lacking kidou due to his reitsu's uncontrollable state since his revival, Shōkan was grasping at straws. He had an idea recently however... A way to gain more power. It was dangerous, it would hurt, and possibly kill him. but if it succeeded... Shōkan would stand at the greatest heights this world had to offer, his strength exponentially greater than it could possibly achieve without it. Right now wasn't the time to think about that. Right now was the time to focus on the here and now.

"There is much to discuss," Sozen said. "So while the two of you come at me simultaneously, we will talk." Shōkan sighed a bit, this would be an exercise in futility. If Sozen were anywhere near as powerful as he thought he might be, this would go nowhere fast. Of course, Shōkan recodnized the purpose in it. Sozen had to see their skills in order to best help them. Even so, Shōkan let his body go slack for a moment in a sigh... In that moment Himitsu made his move, Shōkan wasn't quite certain what it was, his ability to sense reitsu had gone to hell since his return, what with his own soul being in such turmoil, but he could feel the displacemetn of air from the kidou behind Sozen. Most likely Hado #1: Sho.

Listening to the Vice-Captains tirade, Shōkan was actually moved. It reminded him of the past so much that it hurt, old friends, enemies, everything back them had been so much more simple. Maybe it was nostalgia, or a loss of naivete, but Shōkan felt that this new time was much more complicated. “Look, maybe I’m wrong but I’ve got a feeling that I’m not your favorite person. You might hate me for personal reasons, and I’ve got to live with that, but at least let me know if you agree with me. I need to know who my real allies are, people I can call and rely on to make the right decisions. Are you the type of guy who fights for the good of everyone, or are you solely set on getting revenge on Kuroi? There’s a difference between fighting a single battle or launching a war. Kuroi is just one battle.”

Shōkan stared at Himitsu in abject confusion. He didn't see how Himitsu might think that he hated him. Sure he had been a annoyed slightly by the vice-Captain, but that wasn't hatred. in all honesty he was neutral towards the man, and he indeed felt himself aligning with his morals. Himitsu might be a bit naive, but Shōkan was the same way when he was younger. "Misute-san, I sincerely apologize if I gave the impression that I dislike you. I was slightly agitated earlier, but that wasn't entirely your fault, as of late I haven't been in absolute control of my emotions... I can say with complete honesty that I don't hate you, and in fact I find your morals laudable." Shōkan gave Himitsu a reassuring smile, aided by his natural charisma. "Let's do this together, Vice-captain Himitsu!"

Shifting his body into a natural fighting position, Shōkan charged Sozen in a roundabout manner, his strange archaic form of Hakuda coming into play as he performed a kata at his swiftest speed, such that would leave a cheetah in the dust. He knew however that to Sozen he was moving in slow motion, and without having anythign useful in his repertoire yet, Sozen would be humouring him at best. Shōkan 'tsked' to himself as he went through his kata, he knew it wouldn't have any effect. He needed to abandon this heart of stone, this calm outlook he had, let his emotions aid him, and analyze his opponent. Shōkan attempted (and failed) to use shunpo Karin, a move he had been working on for awhile now. Instead, his arm took on a reddish hue as immense strain was put on it, and Shōkan was forced to disengage.

As he did so, Sozen began to speak. Listening, Shōkan let out a chuckle as he finished. "I know I'm weak... I've been struggling with it... This helplessness. I feel like a child, trying to use my same skills and techniques I was known for in my time and failing miserably. I would do anything... Bite, claw, pull myself up with broken arms if I could regain my strength. and I will get it back, all of it and more!" With that exclamation, Shōkan's body exploded it pure white fire, the firery aura giving an almost angelic look about him, an abstract pair of wings and a halo forming from the fire. This was why he gained the moniker "Archangel" Just as his grandfather before him had. Shōkan had been careful and positioned himself so that Himitsu was out of the range of his attack. he wasn't sure if Himitsu was weak enough to be effected, but he didn't want to take chances.

Sure Shōkan new that Sozen wouldn't be fazed by this. The purpose of it wasn't to harm Sozen however, it was to give his resolve physical form. His will was the fire raging around him.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats & Skills}
Strength - 85 [135] > [236.25]
Speed - 85 [135] > [236.25]
Spiritual Pressure – 50
Reiatsu Strength – 50 [100] > [150]
Light Aura - [100]
Dark Aura - [0]
Instinct - 75
Senses - 75
Energy sensory - 0
Healing Expertise - 0

Swordsmanship: 2
Hakuda: 2
Strength of Will: 2
Battle Analysis: 2
Charisma: 1

[Sozen Kuchiki]

First Song! AT LAST RELEASED

A cool smile crept onto Sozen's face. Himitsu was the first to engage, blasting outward some sort of pulse. Most Captains, realizing it lacked malicious intent, would have simply let it pass. However, Sozen was different. What was a disadvantage in most cases was an advantage in this one. Though he had incredible reiatsu strength, and speed unlike most of his peers, and though Sozen even had Kido, swordplay, and Hakuda mastered, he was severely lacking somewhere. That somewhere was energy sensory. Unlike most Captains, who could sense reiatsu quite well, Sozen was incapable of anything more than gauging an opponent's power when he looked at them.

In that event, scarlet eyes did all the work for him. What he saw was what he got. A pulse coming outward could be taken for anything. Judging by the speed of it, Sozen took it to have the potential for an offensive spell. There was no guarantee, but it seemed like getting it over to the Kuchiki Head was a priority. It was basically a response just to having something coming at him. He had never seen anything like it before, truth be told, and this made him even more cautious. Because he had never seen it before, it meant that it was likely to have hidden talents worth avoiding. And what Sozen did might even be considered somewhat ingenious in its own right.

With his incredible speed, Sozen suddenly disappeared. In reality, he had just used a flash step to get into the air to a point above the blue glow, which continued to rise toward him in that direction. However, because Sozen had gone over it, by the time it reached his elevation, it would have missed. This brought the Kuchiki Head over it and back down. He literally used a flash step to blast himself into a front flip in mid air and go down using that momentum. It was so fast that it would look like he had just disappeared, and neither Himitsu nor Shokan had the ability to keep track of Sozen, given the obnoxious difference in their speeds.

So fast was the Squad 6 Captain that a faint flicker of an afterimage would have been left behind just long enough that Sho would be cast into it, but it was gone by the time Sho was cast. Therefore, visually, it would have appeared as if Sozen literally disappeared as the Sho was cast, giving off the illusion that he had felt it, anticipated it, and dodged it. In truth, he had escaped it without even knowing it was coming, and quite a while before it was cast by technical terms, but his speed was great enough to leave that afterimage to trick out the Sho, and then give him the illusion of being much faster than even he really was. And, this also meant Sozen was able to see the Sho cast, as he noted the blowing leaves coming by and suddenly being displaced by the blast of air.

So he can cast Kido out of that aura...? Sozen wondered to himself, evaluating what it was. Now, because Sozen himself hadn't been touched by the aura, he naturally wouldn't be kept track of. He was an anomaly, and would appear to have simply phased out of existence for a second. But, in truth, he appeared right in front of Himitsu, in his Lieutenant's face. A huge smile was present on Sozen's face, too, so it was a bit of a scary, startling thing to see. That was when Sozen then backed off, not attacking, and spoke. This was followed immediately by Himitsu's response. Sozen smiled. "You would get along very well with my eldest son..." he said. Then, he answered with a lesson startlingly relevant from his father. Nearly word for word.

Second soundtrack!

"You're correct," Sozen informed Himitsu. "This world of ours called Soul Society is full of corruption. The Kasumi'Oji run black markets. The experiments in Squad 12. Some of our comrades are killers. Some of our comrades are monsters. Some of our comrades are evil. And so you then wonder, how can we ever hope to find what is good, or evil? But when I say what is good or evil is bound to our society, I do not mean to imply that it rests with our leaders. Look no further than our leaders and you will find evil. Morality is bound not to them, but to the standards of our Soul Society itself. Though there are aberrations who go against what is moral, what is moral was agreed upon by a majority.

By you. By me. By Shokan. By those whom you have sworn to protect. We know that it is wrong to torture and kill our own comrades, and that we should protect the innocent, and should not lie to one another, or cheat each other, or turn our backs on those in need. A majority agreed that this is moral, and while there are those who do not follow it, this does not devalue that morality. We have evil, but we have good, too. There are genuinely good people, if you are still willing to look. Unfortunately, that evil does exist. And so, the best way to move forward is to lead by example. To be strong, and to be good as well as strong. When you can do this, you can lead others toward a different way. A better way. The right way. A new age of what is good. But before you can do all that, you must become strong. That's why we're here today. That's why I want to help you. Because I can't change things alone, but I believe in the next generation's ability to change the future."

It was ironic for Sozen, of all people, to say these things. He didn't live morally. Not that people knew much of that, but they were at least aware of a few of his acts. What he had done to the Vizards. What he had done to the Ogatago. Sozen wasn't exactly moral. But he did what he thought was best for protecting those he cared about, and this was what gave him the right, in his opinion, to say these words as he did to Himitsu. Still, it appeared as if his Lieutenant and his son would get along well. There was much that they could talk about, as it seemed that they truly did share like feelings. Sozen would keep a mental note to introduce them later.

Another anime basketball track

Following this, Shokan spoke in response to Himitsu, after having patiently waited for Sozen to finish. At that, showing charisma, Shokan decided to advance on Sozen.

Kata? He's an old fashioned one. Sozen found it intriguing to actually encounter an opponent who utilized Kata to attack, rather than just practice form. It was well known in Hakuda that Kata were to be learned for the sake of mixing and matching the moves contained within. Shokan, however, was utilizing a straight Kata, and Sozen even recognized the one that was being used. It became a matter, then, of anticipation. To be certain, Shokan's form was fluid and excellent considering the state of his body. Of course, Sozen too was a master of Hakuda, and was quick and able in his ability to block every single one of Shokan's strikes and advances.

Sozen, of course, was at the top of his form. So, if one were to consider Shokan Kawada's fluidity and grace a 10, Sozen at this moment was roughly a 25. It wasn't anything to say about Shokan other than that a thousand years suspended tended to make people rust, and it wasn't to say anything about Sozen other than that being in two wars did a lot for someone's combat expertise. Sozen purposely brought his speed down to Shokan's level, guarding each and every strike with precisely the correct counter. At last, a single redirect movement would knock Shokan's attack down and then remove his balance, causing him to momentarily stumble forward.

That physical strength is something else, considering his situation. I had to redirect him instead of directly block. Of even more significant note was Himitsu's combination from earlier, too. Seeing it settle now, Sozen could see it must have been some sort of scanning technique, as it had done nothing to Shokan upon passing over him, and nothing to the environment. Yet, it had released a spell. This meant that it wasn't something to be laughed at. Himitsu had some sort of ability to cast spells out of other spells, or something of the sort. Intriguing. Now, as Shokan stumbled forward, he turned to Sozen and responded to the Kuchiki Head's dialogue with him.

Getting away from anime basketball

And then white fire burst forth. As before, Sozen's aura was more than capable of coming up as a faint red glow around him to ward off that white fire, splitting it off to the side and dispersing it around him. This time, since it was happening for the second time, it would be easy for Shokan to notice that Sozen was purposely guarding it. That this could be done in so relaxed a manner indicated that the Squad 6 captain was incredibly powerful. The most powerful of all the Captains. Sozen had a smile on his face, too, noting the symbolism. "Ohhh? Just like Jinbei, huh?" Sozen said aloud. But he wasn't surprised. The Kawadas were known for their flashy reiatsu.

"Kuroi is a minimalist," Sozen told the two of them. Scarlet eyes moved to rest over Himitsu. "I'm sure you discovered that when you fought him. He only does what he deems necessary to counter, and then retaliate. But he doesn't raise the stakes. He'll never escalate his own power level except to match yours. That's why attacking him first is foolish, and a mistake. Kuroi is too strong. Too skilled. If you engage him and put him on the defensive, you'll lose." Sozen thought back to how many of his own attacks Kuroi had been able to stave off. No matter what Sozen had tried, Kuroi had had an answer. Even when Sozen had triumphed, Kuroi had been the more skilled warrior. Suddenly, Sozen had an idea.

"Are either of you in the mood to kill Hollows?"

Sozen's Remaining Reiatsu: 2950/3000 Reiatsu

[Himitsu Kasumi'Oji]

Himitsu’s face went from frustrated and angry to regretful and guility after Shokan’s response. He had definitely jumped to conclusions and made a very false assumption. Himitsu had been bottling up his irritation and dissatisfaction with the system up for far too long and it all just exploded out without him thinking too much about it. The first step he had to take after making a mistake was to apologize for it and hope for forgiveness. “I’m sorry, Kawada-san. I know you’re still adapting to your new life and your strength is admirable. It was selfish of me to believe that frustration was caused by me. I look forward to fighting along side you.”

Sozen, on the other hand, was more concerned with giving Himitsu insight into the moral scale within Soul Society than he was to simply agree. Sozen had been through a lot. His experience showed in every word he spoke and every move he made. Few would be able to dodge Himitsu’s sneak attack with ease considering how unpredictable it was. The Kuchiki Head was on another level, and so Himitsu paid careful attention to his advice.

And he found that he agreed. People like the corrupt scientists, the criminals, and the partiers didn’t define Soul Society. The majority were hard-working, dedicated Shinigami. Therefore, Himitsu just had to believe in the majority. He had to have faith that there would be people supporting him, and in order to gain that support, he needed to ascend. He needed to become a captain and lead the reforms. He already knew which Captaincy spots he would target: Squad 8, where Taiho Kasumi’Oji sits, Squad 13, home of Kagami Murai, and Squad 9, Raion’s personal division.

When it was Shokan’s turn to strike at Sozen, Himitsu’s analytical eyes watched intently. Shokan was fast, considering that he had returned to the new world a week ago. It took the Lieutenant years to reach his current speed, and the fact that Shokan had nearly caught up in days was embarrassing. The Kawada was definitely someone Himitsu would love to have on his team in a fight.

As Shokan closed the gap, he was prepared to launch a lightning-fast attack as he built up his reiatsu to what Himitsu could recognize as Shunpo Karin. He retaught himself advanced Hoho in a matter of days? the bewildered Vice Captain thought to himself in amazement. Shunpo Karin took months of serious work to master for himself. Physical techniques were always the most difficult for Himitsu, but days compared to months?! So what if he fell short at that moment? By the end of the week, of Shokan kept training, he would undoubtedly succeed with Shunpo Karin.

But the real surprise came when Shokan exploded into a ball of fire. Himitsu was ready to defend himself if he was in the blast-zone, but thankfully, the flames backed off. Sozen, after defending himself by flexing his reiatsu around him, seemed amused. Shokan may be out of place in time, but he was clearly a Kawada in Sozen’s eyes. And with Katrina Kawada quiet and busy lately, Himitsu could guess that Shokan would take the mantle of Head of the Kawada Family rather soon.

“Kuroi is a minimalist.” Sozen began. He addressed Himitsu as he pointed out the key aspect of Kuroi’s fighting style. Himitsu flashed back to the bolt of lightning he shot at the Segunda and how Kuroi barely dodged a foot to the side to avoid it. However, being a minimalist made Kuroi predictable as well. That same bolt of lightning was conducted by the rain and numbed Kuroi’s ear. It was a small hit, but it represented something more: a way to overcome and defeat Kuroi. Catching him off guard might just succeed in landing a hit but… if he kept evading and defending, it didn’t matter. “If you engage him and put him on the defensive, you'll lose." Himitsu was wrong, and if he tried fighting Kuroi that way, he wouldn’t be so lucky to survive again.

Sozen somewhat randomly suggested chasing down hollows, a tedious job that usually went down to the unseated Shinigami. However, back when Himitsu was Raion’s Third Seat, he was known for taking long, solo rode trips in various countries where spiritual activity was unusually high. It was a nice vacation for him, and the best part was that it didn’t even count toward his vacation days because it was technically work. If Sozen was suggesting something similar, Himitsu couldn’t possibly decline. He nodded at his captain as an eager smile crawled onto his face.

“Let’s go hunting.”

[Shōkan Kawada Ⅺ]

Shōkan took the events that just transpired with a grain of salt. He had never been one to underestimate his opponents, he'd also never been one to overetimate them either. Yet it seemed he had underestimated Himitsu. That display of kidou was nothing short of extraordinary. Could he do that same thing with larger kidou?? What about kidou that required physical contact? Could the pulse act as a proxy??? With something like that... Shōkan looked at Himitsu with an appraising eye, this man would be a captain some day, Shōkan was sure of it. Turning back towards Sozen, 00dfa7 told the man "Allow me to reschedule my plans, I had a training session with Arashi later this afternoon, but I am sure he wouldn't mind if I canceled."

Shōkan took Himitsu's apology to his apology with a firm handshake, walking over to the man, looking him in eh eyes, and getting a measure of him. This was a method Shōkan had learned many years ago, a useful way to gain a measure of a man's (or woman's) worth. Then, with his natural charismatic smile, walked towards the enterance/exit of the courtyard, waving his hand behind him in a signal that he would return within a few moments. Waiting just outside the door, patiently, was none other than Shōkan's personal manservant, Geofferey Wilcox. While Joff was technically not much more than a butler, in reality, he was one of Shōkan's closest confidants. "What do you think? The 2nd Seat, Misute, do you know anything about him?" In Shōkan's time, Captains and Vice-Captains were still reffered to as 1rst and 2nd seats occaisionally, it was a slip up, but a minor one.

Shōkan had been expecting Sozen. Every report praised him, so much so it was slightly sickening. It reminded Shōkan too much of himself. Himitsu on the other hand... Everything he'd heard about the man gave him one impression 'Reliable' he was skilled, he was determined, but none of the reports called him brilliant... What he had seen was nothign short of that. Joff answered, "Well, he's a kidou specialist, and has plenty of determination... Along with a heft vendetta against Kuroi Naito. He's shown considerable skill in his time as a seated officer, and seems to be on the fast track for promotion." 'Hmm,' Shōkan thought to himself 'This bears consideration... For all of his skill, the one thing he seems to lack is experience, a smidge extra control wouldn't hurt either.'

Thankfully Shōkan had those qualities in spades. Shōkan was impressed with Himitsu, he was a man of quality and skill, something Shōkan respected. More importantly, the man had morals, and loyalty... Somethign Shōkan found this era lacking in. He needed allies, so did Himitsu, god knows the Kawada Clan did. Not to mention Shōkan found the man's goals admirable... It seemed Sozen wasn't the only person he needed to discuss matters with in private... Shōkan made the resolution to have a discussion alone with Himitsu before the day was over... They had much to discuss. Shōkan informed Joff of the change in plans, and sent him to tell Arashi. Making his way back towards Sozen and Himitsu, Shōkan told them that he was prepared whenever they were, the exchange with Joff taking naught but a minute or two.

Shōkan didn't know why Sozen had invited them to this little foray, but Shōkan didn't mind. it had been far too long since had visited the world of the living. Far too long since he had performed his duty... To protect and serve the souls of the living. Either way, this day had already been beneficial. The information on Kuroi was invaluable, and this discovery on Himitsu... The boy- 'No, he's a man' Shōkan reminded himself, he had fallen into the habit of calling just about everyone 'boy' or 'child' these days... He felt old. Anyway, the man was a diamond in the rough. And while he could see that Sozen meant to polish Himitsu until he shined, Shōkan hoped he might have a hand in it as well... A genuine smile reached Shōkan's lips. Maybe he could help save this world after all.

Geofferey Wilcox

[Sorry for the second partial grading, but this gives me the TTP I need, and any more would be a waste considering I don't need any more techniqes at the moment]

[Amagai Kuchiki]

68 paragraphs

340 TTP to Shokan
340 TTP to Sozen
340 CTP to Himitsu

[Sozen Kuchiki]

Soundtrack that makes you CUM

Several centuries ago

"Lord Ginrei," the name was uttered with a very solemn, low bow--a certain indescribable reverence. Sozen had never seen his grandfather doing business before, but he was excited to receive the opportunity. While the mind of the young adolescent still wandered around, wrestling with the loss of his virginity to a beautiful girl named Aoi, he recognized that it would be a hundred years before they could meet again, and in the meantime he intended to make something of himself by learning dutifully from his grandfather, the Head of the Kuchiki Family. But, his grandfather did not like discussing certain matters under certain circumstances, as with now.

"What sort of ruckus is this?" Ginrei Kuchiki asked of the nervous, plump man with an enormous mole on his chin, who had stooped so low in his bow to the Head of the family. One couldn't tell the occasion by the dress of the Head. Like most previous Heads, Ginrei chose to wear his Kuchiki scarf, Captain's Haori, and Soul Reaper robes even to formal occasions, sporting only the difference of his ornamental Kuchiki combs in his neat white hair when such occasions arose. But, today was a rather important event. They stood in the well decorated halls of gold marble floor which were the Kuchiki's largest ballroom under Ginrei, all for the sake of a lavish party thrown in honor of the birth of Sozen's younger sister, Saeki.

"Well, you see Lord Ginrei, I bring the terms of negotiation from the Shihoin Family," the man, clearly a messenger from Squad 2, said to Ginrei. The Kuchiki Head seemed irritated. "I do not discuss business in private occasions," Ginrei replied coldly. The plump man seemed taken aback by Ginrei's refusal to even comment on the matter, and started stuttering more about it, presumably because of the importance of the matter. "B...but sir, it's of utmost-" only then he was interrupted by Ginrei, who had lost what was left of his quickly wittling patience. "Enough," Ginrei said, silencing the man with a very somber, quiet single word.

"If you continue to badger me after I have refused, I will be very angry."

"Right now, I want to enjoy the occasion of my granddaughter's birth." The plump man did not know what to say, so Ginrei nodded in the direction of a black haired man with astounding good looks and beautiful hue of lavender eyes. "My son will be more than happy to assist you," Ginrei said. "After all, in a few short years I will be retiring and he will be the Head in my place." The plump man prepared to bow and leave, but Ginrei was not yet done with him, indicated by putting a firm hand on the man's shoulder and looking him in the eye. "And then, after you have spoken to my son, I want you to figure out the demands from my good friend, Jinbei Kawada, without letting him know that the Shihoin family has already made its demands."

The plump man made another bow, and with a final "Thank you Lord Ginrei," disappeared into the crowd to seek out Mephisto Kuchiki, current Heir to the Kuchiki name. Sozen observed all of this behind interested, scarlet eyes, standing next to his grandfather, who looked down at him and shook his head. "Unbelievable, these people," Ginrei complained. "Look at them. They have no manners. No respect. And yet they flounder around, wondering why their power slips away from them all the time." Sozen did not think that it was his place to ask questions, but in this case, he thought that he might oblige his curiosity.

"What do you intend, if you don't mind my asking, grandfather?" Sozen asked of Ginrei. The Kuchiki Head looked down at Sozen and responded. "The Shihoin started this mess with the Kawada because they feared their power was slipping. It will be in our best interest to appease both parties, else one or the other, if not both, will revolt, and we will have to put them down and weaken them forever, thus diminishing the worth of one of our valuable allies. Likely, negotiations will not go well." Sozen puzzled this out for a moment. It didn't make sense to him. If Ginrei thought it wouldn't go well, then why do it?

"That doesn't explain what you intend," Sozen replied, challenging the statement as insufficient. Ginrei, rather than being insulted, seemed to enjoy that the future Head at least had some wit about him. "You're quite right," Ginrei replied. "What will happen is I will make my own fair terms of negotiation between the families, and they will be in our debt. And if either of them should violate these terms, we will crush them." Everyone knew the Parable of Nine Flags. But no one knew the names of those nine families anymore... The Kuchikis were a force to be reckoned with, and one of the first real examples set for him by his grandfather was this night.

Present Day.

When they emerged into the human world, it was into the heart of Karakura Town. Why? This generation, Karakura Town was the most dense town in the world in terms of spirit particles, and, subsequently, spiritually aware beings. It was estimated that one out of every twenty in Karakura Town could at least detect spiritual beings in some form, making an unprecedented 5%. It was estimated that one in a hundred residents of Karakura Town possessed some form of spiritual powers, and that it had up to six times the Hollow sightings as other towns. More than once, people had attempted to break it down to create the King's Key.

It made sense to bring them here for a bit of Hollow killing. What should be trivial for anyone at seated officer level would be difficult even for Captains if they found the correct location. The trick was attracting a dense field of Hollows which would serve as bait for more powerful prey. Fullbringers with a vendetta. Bount. Some other twisted life forms. Karakura Town was bound to have something like that on any given visit if someone played their cards right. It made perfect sense to bring them here to train. It would assist in Sozen's lessons on information and on the adversaries of today.

So, as they touched down, and arrived, Sozen started to speak to them yet again. "In the Kawada Family, it was custom to throw the Kawada Heirs into the streets at a young age and force them to grow and return as powerful warriors," Sozen said. Shokan would know this well. In his time, this had still been the custom. Jonouchi Kawada had grown up this way. Jinbei Kawada had grown up this way. Kochikochi Kawada had grown up this way. Shokan himself had likely experienced this at some point in his lifetime, too. That loneliness as one had to rise from the depths of the worst part of the Rukongai to return to Seireitei as a worthy Heir.

"Today, the Kawadas have of course discontinued it," Sozen said, referring to how neither Shade Kawada nor Kenryoku Kawada had been required to experience this. "And there's a reason for that. Knowledge. The elders realized that the power could not substitute for wisdom being passed down through generations. My grandfather knew everything that every Head before him did. My father knew everything my grandfather did and more. And I know everything that my father ever did, and more. And my son will know even more than I do. By expanding our wisdom, we become greater. So, why have I brought you here?"

Sozen motioned toward the field of Hollows starting to appear in their area, drawn by the allure of strong reiatsu. In an instant, he disappeared, almost vanishing, and started slaughtering Hollows. Himitsu and Shokan were of course welcome to join him. Either way, it would be less than a minute before the Hollow massacre was over. At that point, Sozen continued to smile. "I wanted us to experience some of today's enemies together," he said. And a huge reiatsu could be detected approaching them. Not quite a Captain's level, it was sufficiently large even by Sozen's standards. But what was it? Friend or foe?

OOC: Up to one of you to decide what we encounter next!

[Himitsu Kasumi'Oji]

Himitsu had a history with Karakura Town, and he couldn’t exactly say that he was happy to be back. The last mission he had been on in Karakura was disastrous, but that outcome wasn’t a surprise considering how many forces were at play. Xcution, Soul Society, Uzaki Enterprise, and Hell. Sinners and Hason roamed the streets of Karakura, taking hundreds of lives and destroying the city all under the orders of an Arrancar named Discord.

No matter how hard Himitsu fought, he couldn’t hold back all of the dozen’s off hell-beings swarming the city. His best bet was working with Zack Jensesn of Xcution and Kazura to stop Discord from getting his hands on the Black Pyramid. When complications rose up and Zack split from the group, Himitsu and Kazura were left fighting Xcution’s crazy experiment while Discord took the Black Pyramid from right under their noses. The mission was a failure, hundreds died, and Himitsu couldn’t stop any of it.

The city was a symbol of his failure, but he had visited Karakura once before. It was after his former Vice Captain, Kazuko Shiba, had disappeared and he had begun to witness Shinigami abandoning their duties and letting innocent souls die. Himitsu questioned if he was on the right team then, and he was offered an out.

---

“Three.”

An abnormally large man in Shinigami clothing stood before the rubble of a three-story tall building. Sirens blared in the distance, but the man didn’t seem fazed. His attention was focused on another gentleman, Kazura Uzaki. The CEO of Uzaki Enterprise ignored the barrel of the gun pointed at him and locked determined eyes with Himitsu. Neither moved a muscle.

“Two.”

The pistol didn’t shake or waver in Himitsu’s hand. It remained pointed at Kazura’s temple as the big man’s finger rested on the trigger. The atmosphere was tense as the men sized each other up, but there was something strange. Despite the gun pointed at Kazura’s, neither of them were hostile. They were more curious than anything. Would Himitsu really shoot the Fullbringer?

“One.”

No bullet was fired.

Kazura didn’t flinch.

Himitsu smiled.

“You trust me, and I hope I can do the same.”

---

Kazura was someone Himitsu could rely on in the future when his assistance would be required. Uzaki Enterprise was growing exponentially, and in due time, they would be a force to be reckoned with. Himitsu would trust the CEO with his life if the need be, and, more importantly, he’d trust Kazura with the lives of others. Uzaki Enterprise would keep the human world safe.

But there were always stray hollow to take care of, and that’s why Sozen, Shokan, and Himitsu were there. As Sozen recounted details of the Kawada tradition regarding how they matured their children, Himitus’s energy sensory was scanning the nearby area, searching for any hollow spiritual activity. He was still listening, however. Shokan’s experience during that ceremony may explain his battle-hardened spirit.

The Kuchiki method was different, however. Kuchiki were more sly and witty than the powerful Kawada. Instead, Sozen prioritized transferring all of the knowledge of past heads to his heir. Maybe that explained how the Kuchiki grew stronger with every generation. Sozen is believed to be the strongest head yet, but rumor has it that Souza’s early level of genius is far beyond that of his father’s. In time, he was expected to surpass Sozen.

Himitsu had none of those benefits. He didn’t have any family traditions to strengthen him or any ancestors to share their wisdom. Himitsu didn’t even have a childhood as far as he knew. His life began when he woke up in a hospital bed with a chronic disease and died months later. Himitsu won’t ever find out how he got there or who he was before hand. He could have had parents, siblings, a wife, children. The possibilities were endless, but that’s all they were: possibilities.

There was no time to linger, though. Himitsu soon detected a powerful reiatsu signature approaching quickly. Whatever it was, the thing was fast. It soared through the sky as it made its way toward the Shinigami. The trio might be able to see the black hollow with two huge blade-like claws just two hundred meters away when it suddenly took a nose-dive downward and disappeared beneath the concrete. Its reiatsu signature suddenly vanished too. The creature was gone.

Himitsu used Spiritual Pulse once again, though this time, it was just for sensory purposes. The pulse found the hollow once again, but it was only 100 meters away and below the ground. “Be careful, it’s beneath our feet, and it’s fast.” Right when Himitsu finished speaking, the hollow’s reiatsu briefly spiked. It was right beneath his feet. He had more than ample warning, so when the creature shot out of the ground at its full speed with its blade limbs, he was prepared to counter to keep himself from getting slashed.

The blade was targeting Himitsu’s heart, but he had crossed his left arm over his torso in anticipation. When he sent out the pulse. The hollow’s attack would clash with his steel-like arm that was protected by Bakudo #68: Ganoretto. From his chest, Hado #1: Sho would throw the hollow back into the air, putting some safe distance between the creature and Himitsu.

However, the Vice Captain wasn’t the only one being targeted. When the hollow’s reiatsu spiked, it had somehow used a duplication technique. All three Shinigami were being attacked at the same time, so the hollow leaped out of the ground together in unison and attacked in the same way. How would Shokan and Sozen defend themselves.

Reiatsu Remaining: 2350/3000 (-100 for Spiritual Pulse, -300 for Ganoretto, -25 for Sho)

Hollow Appearance Reference

SPOILER: Click to show

{Class 4 Hollow, Rank 2 Shadow}

Strength - [100] (50) Points

Speed - [300] (600) Points

Spiritual Pressure - [250] (150) Points

Reiatsu Strength - [400] (600) Points

Light Aura - [0] Points

Dark Aura - [100] Points

Instinct - [100] (75) Points

Senses - [150] 225 Points

Energy sensory - [0] Points

Healing Expertise - [0] Points


Total SP: [1200] Points

That's all for the template. There are a LOT of stats, but don't get choosy and just give some to all. The result could be quite negative.

[Shōkan Kawada Ⅺ]

(OOC: Sorry for the wait guys, let's get this thread rolling again, it's really fun)

As the hollow leapt out of the ground at Shōkan, he was more than amply prepared. Himitsu's warning had been more than enough. If the creature had been more intelligent than a hollow, it might have actually managed to lay a finger on him, it was certainly fast enough for it, without Himitsu's warning, he might not have been able to stop it, but with it, Shōkan was able to use his vast fighting experience to lean slightly to the left and completely dodge the hollows attack. Despite the hollows vastly superior speed, Shōkan showed not a touch of fear of hesitance. At this point, judging from the speed at which the hollow burst out, Shōkan would either have to overwhelm it quickly, or be very clever. Seeing as he didn't have much of Sozen's valuable time to waste, he chose his game plan as the former.

The haste with which the hollow moved was troublesome, and there was really only one way in which he could match it. Shunpo Karin. Despite having failed earlier, Shōkan was still supremely confident in himself. The Kawada were not like the Kuchiki, the Kuchiki drew power from their supreme confidence, their thought, no, to them it was fact, that they were better, that they would succeed. The Kawada were different. They drew power from their defeats, from rising up, every time they fell, they came back twice as strong. Only those who had tasted defeat could grasp the sheer drive and determination it took to be the best. This was why they chose th ephoenix as their symbol, the Kawada would never stay down, never give up. They would rise from the ashes, twice as strong, ten times as strong, whatever it took to defeat their opponent. That was the Kawada way.

'Knock me down and I shall rise in fire.' Shōkan thought to himself. In his day as clan head, that had been their motto, and his own personal creed. With this thought in mind, Shōkan showed not even a shred of fear or hesitance, time seemed to move again. The hollow was above him, arm still outstretched from its attempted blow, Shōkan's body was just to the side, arm cocked back. He was ready. Shōkan pivoted his feet and extended his body. Force traveled from his ankles, to his thighs, pivoting his waist, that force compunded and traveled to his core, finally pivoting his shoulder, that force traveled through his arm. Finally, Shōkan used Shunpo Karin as he launched his fist. All of the force his entire body could generate extended to his fast aa it was launched at the hollow at a speed greater than 3000. It might have good senses, but that didn't matter in the slightest if it couldn't react to the information it collected fast enough.

It didn't stand a chance.

I will rise, the Kawada will rise. May fire and blood meet those who try to stand in our way.


OOC: Training For CTP