What Lies in Darkness [DE | R] !OSEN ACTIVE!

[Garret]

Thread Title: What Lies in Darkness
Participants: Garret & Noriko
World: Human World
Death Setting: Death Enabled
Rating: R
Location: Somewhere in the great forests of Russia.
Special Conditions: Garret's Osen Cursed is active. This means that any Hollow or Arrancar RPC that are Class 3 and below can invade this thread without the users permission, with a max of 5 RPCs total allowed to invade. Second: The Twins will become Noriko in this thread.
Circumstances: A combination of training and rest before the next nights battles is interrupted by the one Arrancar Garret has ever let go.

[Garret]

A brief of air between his lips, a bead of sweat dripping down his forehead, as he focused. His arms felt heavy, the sword in his hands far heavier than it normally was. Numerous logs of wood were tied around the swords length, increasing its weight in order to help Garret train. Yes, this man trained. Despite the ever constant battles during his nights he needed time to improve his own skills and strengths. Right now he was focused on improving his physical strength, and the only way he knew how was to use his sword. Use it...but increase the weight. So, here he was, wielding a sword that weighed about twice as much as it normally did.

Gritting his teeth, Garret stepped forward and swung his weapon downwards; creating an air current from the weight that pushed the grass beneath the swing. He stopped before striking the ground, turning the blade so the flat faced the earth and swinging to his left, carrying through with the strike and swinging his arms overhead, twisting the sword a bit so its blade faced in the right direction, before swinging down yet again. He let out a breath, resting the blade against the earth as he shut his eye, taking a minute to breath in that cold winter air.

Even he needed to train. Fighting was sure to improve him, yes, but unless he added more weight to the sword then there was no way he would be able to increase his own Strength. He didn't have the best control over his reiatsu, and as a result the overall effectiveness of reiatsu reliant moves for him were negligible. So the only skill of his he could continue getting better at was with his sword and the muscles in his body. White mist escaped between his lips as he breathed outwards, the coldness in the air meeting the heat of his breath.

Standing up straight and looking around, his eye scanned the white forest he dwelt in for now, watching for any movement or for anything out of place. It had been quiet, at least his definition of it, for the past few days. Besides the inevitable night time battles, Garrets day light hours had been relatively peaceful. No Shinigami, no Arrancar, nothing. Nothing seemed to be chasing him. It was like the earlier days of his travels again only having to worry about what came bumping in the night. The snow covered woods provided him with some cover, just in case anything was looking for him anyways.

His gaze softening, Garret resumed his practicing. Lifting his greatsword in the air, he began to swing it one handed up and down, stopping it before it touched the ground. Despite the silliness of its appearance, and its simplicity, it was an effective strength training exercise. Normally his weapon weighed close to 400 lb, an absolute absurd weight for a weapon, but with all this extra weight attached to it even Garret was having trouble wielding it. By raising it up and stopping it from touching the ground, Garret was not only training his arms but also acquiring more control over his body when using it.

Sometime later, after at least a hundred swings with each arm, Garret finally stopped. He used the collected wood to start a fire, sitting down beside it and removing his upper clothing. The biting cold made him breath sharply for a moment, but shrugged it off a moment latter. The cold did not bother him like it used to, no doubt attributed to his spiritual body giving him increased resistance to the extreme of temperatures. Running his hand down his arms and over a collection of bandages, Garret narrowed his eye as he inspected the bandages wounds. It was always like this; some part of him was always injured and needed tending.

Wrappings around his right forearm, his waist, he managed to do rather well the night before. Looking over his body his eyes continued to rest on the multitudes of scars that dotted his skin. His body was massive, a mountain of meat and muscle the likes of which most men only dreamed of obtaining. However, his body was also strikingly similar to the cutting boards of a housewife, covered in scars from head to toe. You didn't live like he did and expect to come out pretty. Removing his eye patch, Garret ran his hand across the scar tissue where his right eye used to be, a gently prod allowed him to feel the Bakkoto nucleus beneath the skin. The scar of his right eye stretched along the side of his head and into his hair line, making a section of his head were hair did not grow. His body was a mess.

Turning his attention to the weapon laying against the tree beside him, Garrets gray eye narrowed as he looked at it. A weapon too massive to be called a sword, too long, too heavy, and far too rough, it was more like a slab of raw iron. It was a symbol of who he was. A man who fought against fate itself. This sword, this weapon, was a literal symbol of who he was and what he suffered. A great weight that he carried with him, a literal symbol. He closed his eye, putting his clothes back on and proceeded to relax by the fire. Night was a good few hours away, and he could use this opportunity to catch some sleep. His body would wake him up when it was time.

So what will you do?

Damn, and he was just getting to sleep. Opening his eye he saw something in the flames, a small hound sitting in the fire just staring at him. A small black hound, the same he'd seen many times before.

You let that one go. Are you going to be letting everyone of them go now?

I said it before, I chose who my sword kills. Not you.

Ever since that day this little black creature kept showing up, questioning him about his decision in regards to the twin Arrancars. Ever since meeting with that one woman, Shinzui, Garret had been...confused about things. She was an Arrancar, and yet Garret felt something more for her. As if she wasn't the same as the monsters that attacked him. ""You.. and I are the same, Garret. We both have our own ailments." Garret remembered her words very well, facing away from the hound as it paced towards him.

Does this mean you're giving up? That you don't care anymore? Does Cassandra's death mean nothing anymore?

He glared down at the little creature, a scowl forming on his face. No. I will rid this world of those monsters. Don't you think for a second that has changed! The hound turned away, walking back into the flames and departing, suspiciously easily this time. Garrets breathing began to calm down, watching the flames for a few minutes more to make sure that the black creature was now gone. Narrowing his eye he raised his right hand, staring down at it as if searching for something. Scratched hands, calluses the size that no man should ever be stuck at, and cracked nails were normal...but he was looking for something else. His hand was trembling.

It wasn't out of fear. It was because of something else. Something that that bitch, Taiho Kasumi'Oji, had told him. Something she had told him the first time he had released the Bakkoto. "Yours is different from the rest. It's more attached to you and thus has a far more intimate relationship with your body. It has access to you in ways that the others don't. Your nervous system, your cells, your very reiatsu." He remembered her voice so strongly, like a viper preparing the strike. The light shaking in his hand was stopped when he balled it into a fist, lowering it and closing his eye. "If you're unable to control it you have more to fear than just losing your mind. The toll it takes on your body is enormous, and prolonged and extensive use of its power will begin to damage you.

Your fingers will get tired from all the shaking. You'll begin to lose your senses; taste will be the first followed by shortly by smell, and then your ability to touch, and so on from there. Unless you can learn to control it, it shall completely devour you, mind...body...and soul." Her warning was still fresh in his mind. A warning that he would have been a fool to not heed. Garret sighed, realizing that he was going to need to somehow learn to control the Bakkoto inside of him. To control that Beast. But how? He was going to need help from...someone. But who? And when was he going to have the time? Each time he used the armor he was forced to rest for the entire day, the condition of his body making it impossible for him to do anything else.

The Rogue leaned back, making himself comfortable again as he stared down at nothing in particular. He needed to figure something out, and soon. His gray eye closed softly, deciding now would be a good time to sleep off the remaining portions of his dreariness before the nights battles came. Sleep often did not come easy to the Rogue, his mind plagued by his stress and anxiety. His dreams were often filled with the same experiences he faced each night, what-ifs and questions about if he would survive. Sometimes, if he was lucky, he would get something sweeter. A memory of a time before this chaos, a time when he experienced happiness.

But night would not wait. When next he awoke he was ready. The woods were dark, so very dark that even he might have had trouble seeing. The fire that burned brightly beside him, the moons light illuminating the darkness around him, Garret stood tall and ready. The greatsword he carried was planted down into the earth, his arm resting around its base as he waited for them to show up. Every passing minute caused the swordsman an ever growing level of concern. Where are they? He wondered, narrowing his eye as all he experienced was darkness and the sound of crackling fire. No howls. No screams. No trampled forest. What was going on?

He frowned, not liking the answer he knew to that question. Every time, every time, this happened something big was coming. It's happened before, and each time Garret knew he was in for something serious. Something that was killing the Hollows before they even breached into the Land of the Living. But, maybe he was wrong, maybe this was different, maybe there weren't any Hollows picking up his curse? Garret doubted it. So he remained alert, wrapping his fingers around that weapon called a sword and pulling it free from the earth, resting it against his shoulder as he waited in silence. Waited for the approaching madness. Waited for something he would come to regret.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats and Skills}
Strength - 400 Points = 800

Speed - 100 - Points

Spiritual Pressure - 300 - Points = 450

Reiatsu Strength - 100 - Points = 60

Light Aura - 20 - Points

Dark Aura - 80 - Points

Instinct - 150 - Points

Senses - 150 - Points = 112

Energy sensory - 0 - Points

Healing Expertise - 0 - Points

Total SP: 1200 Points

• [Weapons: Greatswords] {2}
  
  
• [Strength of Will] {2}
  
  
• [Pain Tolerance] {2}
  
  
• [Battle Analysis] {2}
  
  
• [Lack of Fear] {2}
  
  
• [Damage Recovery] {2}
  
  
• [Bleeding Tolerance] {2}
  

[Noriko 'Asuka"]

I have searched through the veils of darkness, through the years of shadows to find my way to return. The keys have been found, so now it is merely the need for a gate. That is what is needed, the gate. One final pull to bring reality back into my grasp. And I have found it. I shall put it to use. At last, my revival is at hand. Just one more push is all I need, and you two will the ones to accomplish it. So, go now. The gate is within the dark depths of a forest. The gate awaits for you both. And finally, your purpose, that calling, all shall be cleared.

She understood what was said. That yearning that continuously alluded them for years has been found. Iraishin had been able to speak to this voice for some time. At first they were whispers, steadily expanding to the corners of her mind. Her sister, Shiryou, remained in the dark since the voice didn't speak to one with no mind. The Arrancar knew not of the voice's identity, but surely knew of what they sought out. That craving which was similar to a human they've met before. Garret was the name. That lure in which brought the two sisters resembled what beckoned to them.

In the past the activity of the others presence remained dormant. It was only time after time that it emerged from the narrow corridors of her mind to speak with her. Its activity became increasingly blunt after speaking to Vannan Harper during their last visit to the human world. Echos rang in her ears of what the other spoke of that day, even as sisters went about their way through the halls of Las Noches. Chains rattled along the floor until they reached the end of the hall. That, leading to an arena sized room. Closely behind their second guardian followed, Adrastos.

From the start of their arrangement the Beast King managed to hold true to his word, despite being the beast that he is. From and back from the corners of Hueco Mundo he had kept the pair safe. Only when venturing out into the word of the living that he refrained from following. Better to go alone to eliminate the possibility of having the Shinigami's follow, and did allow the pair to remain away from Quincy eyes. Thanks to Vannan's efforts to keep his organization from meddling in their affairs. Everything had fallen into place, just as the other planned.

The black haired girl turned to face their guardian, "Orders. Do remain here until the right time Adrastos. If everything proceeds as planned then you shall know when to make your move." she relayed the other's orders. She didn't have a need to speak of the entity as the beast may have already been aware of her presence. Of course he wouldn't have traded words with her since he wasn't much of a speaker himself, so, the two would rip open the gate to the other world. A jagged mouth tore itself open before the two, and even with Shiryou's lack of understanding, she was more than ready for what was to come. So, the two proceeded forward into the Garganta while having their own exit shutting behind them.

The hour is upon us. Yeeesssss. At last. The time of twilight will be soon. The keys will arrive before the gate, and once the hour is done the gate shall be opened. But for now you two shall play the role in which I have perceived for you. Until the appointed time you shall do my will.

Was the past really a deciding factor for the future? She didn't know. Shiryou had been living her own existence step by step, day by day. Never really understanding what it meant to live nor what is means to treasure special occasions. It was in each of those steps that she truly treasured. From their very first breath to having spent the time with Vannan, into meeting Garret and walking the current path, none of it was deemed wasteful. Each new day brought her new experiences that will last longer than what a century of living could ever give. She treasured it all.

She didn't know where they were heading to, but the excitement remained altogether. Not once had she been taken over by the anxiety of what would happen. She worried about that when the time actually came for them. As for their current trip her twin only explained that there was a matter which had to be dealt with in the human world. At first she assumed that their Gekko friend was going to be tagging along with them, or perhaps Vannan was going to meet them on the other side. Neither one did what she imagined. All there was before her was the creepy forest that the Garganta led them into.

It was creepy. Dank, dark, dirty, and.. what else rhymed and started with the letter "D." Oh whatever. All Shiryou could was follow her nose. And by "nose" she was really thinking of Iraishin leading the way. She laughed, Iraishin slapped. Shiryou went ouch. The pain only lasted for some time until her sister came to a halt. For reasons she didn't quite understand they were facing down a slope where an illumination penetrated from the dark. Glowing from behind the random tree line the light fluxed wildly. Taking a peek Shiryou could only recognize a large black silhouette, holding onto another black silhouette.

It was big, long, and rough looking. Hehehe, it was funny looking really. "Accomplishment. We have arrived Shiryou. So go now. Eat." Eat what? The funny looking thing? Sounded enticing. But if anything she would rather have the being, or whatever it was, cooked. That called for a bit more fire. She didn't want to scare it away so she decided to take some twigs from the forest to add to the fire. What better twig than a eight foot tree that she severed from its roots.

Too many trees in the way, but not too worry. A single leap up onto another tree, with her tool in hand, gave her a clear shot from above. And without a second thought that eight footer would come crashing down onto the fire below. Sparks would fly to ignite the fire even further than before. But hell, why not another log to feed it. All the reason why a second log was sliced off from above the Rogue. Same dimensions are added to the assault, and more to the fire. Shiryou wondered what would this specimen taste like. Could be gamy. At least until she saw who it was.

Do it. Know what it means to live. Know what it means to despair. The Keys are before the Gate. And soon, soon, the nightmare will end. The twins stood where they needed. She watched with utter excitement as Iraishin followed as directed. It was only a matter of time before it all came to fruition. So what did it matter if she had to wait a bit longer.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats/Skills}

Iraishin:

Strength - 300
Speed - 150
Spiritual Pressure - 100
Reiatsu Strength - 140
Light Aura - [0]
Dark Aura - [75]
Instinct - 50
Senses - 50
Energy Sensory - 200
Healing Expertise - [0]


Shiryou:

Strength - [300]
Speed - 150
Spiritual Pressure - 100
Reiatsu Strength - 140
Light Aura - [25]
Dark Aura - [0]
Instinct - 50
Senses - 50
Energy Sensory - 0
Healing Expertise - [0]


Skills:

1. Mental Skill : Learning [2]

2. Battle Skill : Battle Analysis [3]

3. Battle Skill : Battle Focus [3]

4. Battle Skill : Pain Tolerance [2]

5. Other Skill : Charisma/Leadership [2]

6. Body Skill : Acrobatics [2]

7. Other Skill : Twins Connection [2]
(1. Sharing of Sensory/Thoughts)
(2. Capable of Controlling Actions)
(3. Assuming Control of Sister.)

SKP : 16/16

[Garret]

Ripping a tree from the very earth, its roots be damned, was not a quiet process in any way what so ever. So close to his camp too? Garret heard it the instant it began, turning in the direction of the disturbance and instantly pointing his sword forward, both hands upon its grip. So now it began. Garret still wondered why it was so quiet, where the other Hollows were, and he even began to feel something in the air. Something similar to the feeling of dread. It was an odd sensation, a feeling he couldn't block out, so he pushed it aside for now to simply focus on the task at hand.

He moved to the left as that tree came hurtling through the dark, landing right on his fire and, oddly enough, suddenly becoming consumed in the flames, casting far more light than there was before. Garret blinked, before yet the same sound ringed in his ears. He turned his head upwards in time to see that second tree hurtling right for him. He frowned, reaching up with an open hand and, even surprising him a little bit, caught the airborne tree quite easily in his hand. No pain, no discomfort, it was as if the tree had no weight or mass to him. Garret blinked, completely surprised by how...easy it was. How strong had he become? But he didn't have the time to contemplate his growth, something was attacking him.

Before the twin Arrancars eyes, Garret simply "tossed" the tree aside. It went hurtling through the air, crashing down into the forest darkness beyond, knocking over others as it landed. The Rogue turned, the sound of footsteps catching his attention. The light from the flames caused dancing shadows that stretched out much farther than his original fire ever did. Garret looked at what came for him this night, something that he, truthfully, had not expected to see again for quite some time. His eye narrowed, and his frown deepend, as he beheld the two young women approaching him from specific directions. "So...it's you.." Garret spoke, his voice low. While he was speaking to the two, he wasn't truly speaking to the Twins. He was speaking to the other one.

The Two before him were mere puppets, hiding the true Arrancar within that place that his sword could not reach. He knew that the two weren't what was important; it was the third that pulled the strings. So when Garret spoke, he spoke not truly to the two, but to the one. Seeing them again caused a confusing mixture of emotions to well up within him. His eye glanced between Iraishin and Shiryou, he simply sighed. "This is disappointing.." Garret mumbled, just loud enough for them to hear as he shook his head, repositioning his sword to his shoulder.

"And here I believed you were smarter than this. You should know that if you wanted to face me again, you would do so without these two." Garret spoke the truth. The last time they had met, so many days ago, that the false entities before him stood no chance against him. Their attacks did nothing, their own bodies being destroyed when thrown against his. But, Garret wasn't just taunting for nothing. "So don't waste my time and show yourself, Shinzui!" Garret shouted, knowing that the third would hear him. The night was only beginning, and even if the first wave of Hollows wasn't coming he knew more would. Gillians, Adjucha, and maybe even more Arrancar would come.

And besides, Garret had something he wanted to ask the Arrancar. The last time they had met, she had spoken to him about her plans for a world without conflict. A world where people would not have to suffer the pain they did. He wanted to inquire further into that, and after spending much time thinking on it he was sure that had been the reason he had spared her. Shinzui had shown something that no other Hollow or Arrancar had shown before her; a dream. Hollows did not dream. They only ate. They were monsters through and through. To dream was something...human. Garret had convinced himself he saw humanity in the Arrancar, and had spared her as a result.

But...now? He wasn't sure. If she was here to attack him, lured in by the effects of his Curse, turned into nothing more than a snarling beast like the others...well then she would have disappointed him. She would show him that Arrancar were not different than Hollows. And her actions would damn her entire race before his eye. He hoped it wouldn't come to that. He did not feel affection for her, he did not feel intimacy with her, nor a bonding beyond anything but curiosity. Garret was still very ignorant about this new world, and he was very eager to learn.

You already know how it will turn out. She will be no different. An enemy that stands before you. Yet more prey for your anger. Why prolong this? Cut them down!

Be silent!

The whispers were here already. The starving Bakkoto chewed at his mind, tempting him to give in and unleash its power. Become the same monster before. Become nothing more than a Hollow. "Prove to me you're different than the monsters I cut down, Arrancar! Show yourself and tell me your dream!" Garret announced, and commanded, to the Arrancars. If they simply attacked, then Garret would cut them down. No matter how much they improved, they could tell that Garret had improved further. He existed on the precipice of life and death, experienced more battles than nearly other living individual that currently existed, aside from Hollows.

A man whose life was nothing more than a war...how could their strength compare to his?

[Noriko 'Asuka"]

"Shinzui? Who is that? Who are you talking about?!" Shiryou's echoed from above the small opening in the forest. There were only three individuals in the forest with them, and beyond what she knew there was no other than them. What was the man talking about? Who was he referring to? His piercing gaze shifted between to the two of the sisters, what did it mean exactly? Her name is Shiryou, not Shinzui. Her sister is Iraishin, not Shinzui. Last time she checked how to spell their names none of the letters or characters matched either one of theirs. She had to cross reference. What better way to do it than writing it down on the tree she was latched onto.

"Hey sis, is this how you spell 'Shinzui?" Through her eyes Iraishin can see what she inquired to. Each letter sloppily written as though a child wrote with their less dominate hand. She knew her other half took her time to examine the letters before answering, and she did. "Awful. Your hand writing sucks, but yes, that is how you would write it." Her words carried heavy traces of her apathy. Void of emotions and life as her gaze remained on the Rogue whom they've encountered before. Yet, even as Shiryou's eyes remained studying her own notations in the wood her sights were split onto the man as well.

"Ggrrrrrr, hey, he is making me look stupid. That's it isn't? You trying to make me look stupid right aye?" Always quick to boil over the Arrancar was. Unrelenting and always drawn into the moment. Passionate, yet, so rash to act before thinking over the best possibilities to handle the situation. So, she acted. A single swish of her blade cried loudly from its sheath and across her tree. The towering mass splintered and snapped under its injury, creaking from above the man. "I'm not stupid. You're stupid. Fat-ass. Incredible Bulk. Swoopy-pants." With each name another tree would come falling to the ground. That encircled patch of open space would be caving in from the six other trees that would come for the man.

Each one randomly falling on top of the man. However, not all. Particularly a single half of the series rolled to the side as it fell to meet with the siblings that have been touched by the fire. Oh how beautiful to see such amazing colors snap, crackle, and pop when wood and fire meet. Those lovely sounds followed by dancing of chains riddled the coming night sky, then a profound pound onto the dirty floor below. Shiryou was on the move at the same level as Garret. Using the trees and the hour of twilight to cloak her own movements. She knew what happened in the past. That spring of blood from her arms. She would not make that same mistake again.

She could hear the whispers of her sister arguing to withdraw, but to no avail. Shiryou wasn't an individual that could be bartered with nor persuaded without a better argument, then her own emotions. Thinking got in the way a lot, so she merely decided on the go. Thus resulting in her encirclement of the human soul. Like a predator she stalked her prey in the shadows of the faltering sunlight that was voided by the towering trees around. Then, a snap. From between a narrow opening of the trees behind the man a shrieking red sphere was produced. Whether or not it made contact with the man was anyone's guess. Trees falling and a fire beginning to spread now it was anyone's guess. One thing she did forget however. Her spiritual strengths sucked.

Most likely it would have been poking an elephant in a tank with a feather. Damn she sucked. Like a fart in the wind her Bala would mean nothing to him unless he had an itch that had to be taken cared of. She could imagine him scratching his ass without even knowing what had poked him. Good grief. That thought only annoyed her, and then some. She couldn't help herself but charge at the man, screaming.

How redundant to see all of this happening. That man believes that I can emerge when ever I please? How foolish. Does he not know that they are my ailment? Of course he doesn't. But soon he won't have to wait. His existence holds merit for me. It will be that time when he will see my dream, my answer to him and his reason for existing in this world. In my world.

Iraishin watched as her sister went about her little rampage. It pained her so to watch someone related to her make a fool out of herself. And just like any other time it will be up to her to stop her. Shiryou's thoughts were filled with anxiety and anger towards the man. The same man who identified them as someone else, as this "Shinzui." Could it be that he knew something about the "other?" If so, what did he know? Another question was, when did they meet?

Many questions raised to the surface in place of the previous ones. Her own thoughts were filled with confusion and spiraling questions as to why they were brought to the place? If the human knew of the "other," then could it have been part of the plan for them to meet with him? If so, then exactly what was suppose to happen when they met with him? Were they suppose to fight? Were they suppose to befriend him? Nothing was making sense. But not only that, considering how their fight with him during the last encounter, they weren't able to hurt him. Instead, they were the ones who suffered damage.

Nothing was adding up. Shiryou's actions went on as usual, fighting without possibly thinking of a means to actually fight the man. If the two were to continue, then Shiryou would definitely Starting to understand why my dear.. What? It came again. The voice of the "other." Understand what? This WAS suppose to happen? But why? For what purpose? Their calling, the cause for searching, could it have been what the "other" desired? Too many questions. Too many possibilities. If things were meant to escalate as they have been, then.. "SHIRYOU STOP!"

Nothing came out. She couldn't speak. She couldn't move. Everything about her was frozen in place. WHY?! Can't have you doing that my dear. Why don't we just wait and see, shall we? Wait and see? No. If Shiryou continued to fight then... Her imagination spiraled beyond her control. If she had a heart it would have been pounding against her chest at the time. What would happen to her sister? Why? Why? WHY? Do not worry my dear. I shall give you something that will help you understand. About your sister, and about yourself. Iraishin didn't understand. Why was she so nervous? Why at a time like this?

She couldn't do anything but watch. She could hear her sister's thoughts and saw everything from her perspective. That was all she could do. Not entirely, she could still relay thoughts to her sister. But, would she tell her sister what was transpiring, or use what she had to keep her sister safe from the depths of her own dangerous situation.

Remaining Reiatsu: 1950/2000 : -50 Bala x1

[Garret]

"....what?" Garret asked, with an absolutely confused expression on his face as the immature sister hurled her insults at him. He wasn't sure incredible bulk was really an insult. But, regardless of Shiryou's little outbursts, his eye remained locked on Iraishin. Like the last they had fought, she remained in the back whilst the louder one acted. When last they fought it had been her keeping Garret from simply ending Shiryou's life a few times. But the small conversation between the two had raised a serious question for the Rogue.

Did they not know?

Garrets eye narrowed as he thought it out. He believed, knew, that Shiryou was too stupid to have been putting on an act. Her reaction to that name had been genuine. Iraishin shared in her sister's ignorance it seemed, though he wasn't one hundred percent sure about her. Why was it that they didn't know about Shinzui though? His mind began to try and solve the question, when something that the kitsune had said during their last meeting came to his mind. "You.. and I are the same, Garret. We both have our own ailments." The swordsman blinked. It was beginning to piece itself together in his head, slowly but coming together.

These two were the ailment. They had no knowledge of Shinzui, who only appeared for a brief time in their last meeting, before being replaced once again by these two. Did that mean the real Arrancar was locked away in that place where his sword couldn't reach? It was confusing, giving him a headache just trying to wrap it around his head. But Shiryou wasn't going to give him the opportunity to try and think this thing through it seemed. More trees began to rain down from the sky, prompting the swordsman to raise his arm up as a shield to block any from falling on his head.

The more that fell the more the fire grew. It was a ridiculous image to see. Trees falling on him felt like little more than sticks being thrown at him. His skin, his muscles, were like an armor itself. He sighed. This attack was nothing. He wasn't even aware that Shiryou was circling him, and didn't until he heard the screech and sting of her Bala. He felt the impact and yet didn't move. There was no pain, no damage, just a small stream of steam rising from the impact spot. Lowering his arm, as the rain of trees had stopped, Garret turned his gaze towards the screaming woman.

If Shriyou had any brains at all, she would have known to stop. Had she not been hellbent at throwing herself a wall she could not even scratch she would have ran. The man turned towards her, only slightly, as his fingers wrapped around the greatsword he carried. He remembered this one. This girl who fought so similarly to last time. The same Arrancar whose arms had exploded upon contact with his body. Garret remembered her. He remembered how weak she was. His eye narrowed, and his grip tightened. Muscles in his arm bulging beneath the skin as he built up the power. "Be gone." Was all he said as he swung.

Shiryou may not have been in the range of the six and a half foot weapon, but what came afterwards certainly struck the rage fueled Arrancar. She had insisted on a beeline assault, a straight line attack that she would not falter even when beckoned by her other. Garrets simple one handed swing, one going from bottom to up, showed just how much he had improved since then. All Shiryou would see before it happened was a slight shimmer in the air, before a deafening explosion filled her ears and she was, almost literally, hit by a moving train. Everything ahead of the swing was destroyed; a path cleared straight through the forest as the gargantuan shockwave not just ripped trees from the earth, but obliterated them.

Stones, the very earth itself, all was ripped up and destroyed as the nearly invisible force destroyed everything in its way. The force was fast, travelling near half a mile in length before finally dissipating. If Shiryou had taken the full force of that hit, she would be in a near similar condition to the forest. The exposed flesh would have been torn away; her bones would be ground to a fine dust, her organs liquefied by the force. She would be destroyed and killed. She didn't have the strength to endure a shockwave of that power, no Hierro to guard her, and an unseen entity seemingly working against her.

Garret returned his sword to his shoulder, turning his attention back towards Iraishin and beginning to make his way towards her. He walked with a casual pace, eye locked on her as he approached. He could feel it inside him. The feeling of relief, the inner joy he found at killing the Arrancar. It seemed that he couldn't fool himself. He really did see Arrancar as little more than Hollows. He had hoped that Shinzui could have convinced him otherwise, to calm this hate in his heart...but it seemed as though he had been right all along. They were no different.

And why is that a problem? She won't be able to cause you anymore pain.

[Noriko 'Asuka"]

Life itself is only but a moment in the pages of time. Just like the fire that spurted forth in the instances of clashing, the embers that tear away from the body fade away. Pieces of the life that was once whole are then engulfed by the concept of time. Forever drawn back into the void in which it came. Darkness, nothingness, life itself came from that void where the silence reigned supreme. All she really had to do was watch as everything fell into place. The final pieces were already in motion, and so, the dwelling spirit waited for the doors to open and take in the first breath of free air that she so longed for.

Shiryou was charging in, and none of her thoughts could have reached her. Rage and anguish at the fact that she really couldn't do anything against a foe who outmatched her in every way was antagonizing. Regardless of what she did nothing would cause that man's pillar of strength to be swayed. Each second came down to Shiryou being stepped on like a feeble insect. Her voice stricken and body lacking the strength to move, all Iraishin could do was wait for the inevitable to happen. Her sister lost at the hands of a brute. She was at a loss for words for once in her existence.

She couldn't understand any of it. Her heart pounding against its cage of bone as her veins thinned themselves in anticipation. Was this how it was going to end for Shiryou? Those thoughts haunted her. Yes, they often squabble over battle tactics and antics, but each one those trials and moments they went through them together. Meeting Lady Asuka for the first time, their confrontation against the Quincy Ryan, and facing against an Ice Titan. Even meeting that annoying Vannan was something that they did together. Each and every moment they spent together. They were always so close to each other, open to one another. And to see all that end before her very eyes....

She couldn't....

She wouldn't allow it.

What is this? she said.

She couldn't hold back. She didn't want to be seen as a lesser being or compared to another individual. Her name is Shiryou, and no one else but Shiryou. An idiotic, hot-headed, passionate young woman that desired to see the rest of the world with those around her. Didn't matter what race they were or where they came from. They were her friends and family, and that was all she needed. But she couldn't do that, not when she lacked the strength to protect them, to stand evenly along side them. No. She wanted to be acknowledged, like what Vannan did with her. She wanted to be acknowledged. To be strong.

Everything darkened in her sights. The trees were and floor were gone. The light of the spreading flames nothing more than a flicker effect in the background. All she could see before her was the man that she wanted to destroy, that she wanted him to acknowledge her existence. She was faster than he was, that was for certain. But, she was a hot head, and didn't see the blade that came down over her head. Like a rat to the trap. And for a single moment.. she felt weightless.

But she was breathing.

She was still breathing. Her eyes cringed from the aching muscles in her arms and legs. Each one of them begging for her to cease movement. It hurt so damn much. Everything around her seemed to obscure her vision. The blatant taste of dirt in her mouth kept the girl's lips dried. Particles of dust filled the air and her lungs, keeping the first few moments of air as wheezing coughs. Her body was sore as though she was ran over by a herd of rampaging Menos'. She was still alive, but how. Looking around through slits all she could make out was the flames that engulfed the background of the where the dark silhouette stood.

Must have been the man that inflicted her with the throbbing mess she was in. It hurt. Shiryou couldn't make out much, but perhaps he was staring down at her. Maybe something else? If there was then what was it that he could have staring at instead of the dim-wit before him. What else was there that could possibly draw his attention instead of h... She saw it.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Play me}

Black hair. Black strapped garbs that tethered her chest and waist. Bone fragment shattered leaving only a single fox ear remaining. A wide discolored gash that literally covered the entire backside of what use to be a beautiful pale moon white layer of skin. And, well, there was nothing else but that. Everything else below was just... gone. If Shiryou had peeked beside her would a single arm be found, and it wasn't hers. The slit opened fully to take in the carnage and waste that was before her. Or what remained to say the very least. Everything ceased.

"I..irai..shin?"

Each muscle in the Arrcancar's arms screamed, begged for the woman to stop. One pull after another, fingers dug into the cracks and pieces of earth that was left from the carnage. The young girl's legs ceased to function. One heavy pant after another with each tug that brought her closer to her significant other. At least until finding herself beside the other, stilled. Hacks and wheezing was all she could hear for the time being, but even louder than them were the drumming beats of what could have been her heart. Iraishin was pulled beside her twin as her body was spun around.

No bone fragment remained, instead, shrapnel of wood and rocks took their place. Their sharpened edges pierced the right cheek of the girl's face, leaving the girl blind on that side. Her sister's thoughts were silent. _{"Iraishin..... Iraishin?.... Wake up.... Pleaassee."} She had to nudge her several times in the form of shaking. Just subtly. That was when she could hear them. Her thoughts. "Rebuttal. .. You are an idiot, you know that? Why couldn't you have just waited for me, so we could have done this together." She nodded as if she were pleading. "You wait too long sis. We would have... gotten no where if we waited for you."

Undoubted Garret may have been confused when seeing one of the sisters actually talking. Their connection together allowed them to share their thoughts to the other without verbal communication. The fire around them grew, but the Arrancar didn't care. "Foolish. That is the reason why I have to be the careful one. You get us into trouble too many times." Shiryou chuckled over the swelling anguish. "But hey, this time, you get to go first. Right? To our paradise, right?" There had to be one for them, right? Maybe that was where Miss Asuka went to, and maybe this was a way for them to see her again. It will be like old times. Her sister couldn't agree more.

"Agreed.....

That was the last thing Shiryou could hear before everything went silent. The snapping of trees within the flames nor the howling of the wind could have been heard. All noise ceased as the white haired Arrancar held her other against herself. Her leaving left a sour taste in Shiryou's mouth. Sweet but sour. Was it the tears that made it so, or could it have been that all feeling that Iraishin had filled was gone. As if a part of her died. No more voices, no more happiness. All there was to fill the air was nothing more but a scream. A scream that very much have those who were not deemed spiritually aware able to hear.

She didn't care about anything. She wanted her sister. She wanted to go home. She wanted go home... where everyone else was at.

Just as quick as the light faded from the sky so did the light from within the child. Darkness. Fear. Anger. But most importantly.. despair. The keys had been inserted and turned. She was back.

Much like their release the chain glared brightly, this time for those who were incapable of seeing it now able to. Pure white light glowed, turning the chain that bounded the two girls into a thread of light. It pulsated as though it were a heart. Then, the screaming came to a halt when the pair's reiatsu engulfed them both. In its stead came the whimpering, the wailing. What was it? Souls? Yes, the souls. The souls of those that were devoured by the Arrancar. The souls that gave rise to a Menos that became an Adjuchas. That same Adjuchas that was given an opportunity to rise higher than that of Hollows. This was an Arrancar.

From within the small maelstrom of violet reiatsu emerged those white tails. Three sighted, lashing about the remainders of filth that sullied her holy ground. Then came seven, ripping at the left over trunks from their places and tossing them aside with little effort. And finally, the nine curled and staring down at the Rogue that stood before her. That and the purity of black garments that clothed the pearly white skin. And from that held that smile. From cheek to cheek it she smiled. It smiled at the man.

"My thanks to you, Garret. And how good it is to see you once more. Allow me to re-introduce myself. I am Noriko, and it is a pleasure." An arm raised, and with it a red light beginning to pulse within the palm of the opened hand.


Reiatsu - 1820/1870

SPOILER: Click to show

{Noriko}

Type: Freak

Strength - - [400] *50 [600]
Speed - [300]
Spiritual Pressure - [250] -25 [187.5]
Reiatsu Strength - [400] *50 [600]
Light Aura - [0]
Dark Aura - [100]
Instinct - [100] *-25 [75]
Senses - [100]
Energy Sensory - [150] *50 [225]
Healing Expertise - [0]

SP Total : 1700

Skills:

1. Mental Skill : Learning [2]

2. Battle Skill : Battle Analysis [3]

3. Battle Skill : Battle Focus [3]

4. Battle Skill : Pain Tolerance [2]

5. Other Skill : Charisma/Leadership [2]

6. Body Skill : Acrobatics [2]

7. Other Skill : Twins Connection [2]
(1. Sharing of Sensory/Thoughts)
(2. Capable of Controlling Actions)
(3. Assuming Control of Sister.)

SKP : 16/16

[Garret]

What just happened? The swordsman was frozen, his single eye widened and staring down at the scene that was unfolding before his eye. His lips parted slightly, mouth left agape as he bore witness to something he never believed he would see. His expression was one of confusion, with guilt beginning to become mixed into his gaze. What had just happened? He had struck out against the Arrancar attacking him, the intent to kill in him had been flowing with its fullest force. His attack had destroyed the forest before him, and could have annihilated the Arrancar had she been struck with the full force.

But something else happened instead. The sound of his swords tip striking the earth was heard, as he stopped focusing on holding it. He was silent as he watched the scene unfold before him. An Arrancar...something he considered less than human, a entity he considered a monster...performed an act that no monster would have performed. Self sacrifice. The other, the sister, had gotten between his attack and the other. She had sacrificed herself...sacrificed herself to save her sibling. Sacrifice was not something a monster could understand, something a monster could perform. Sacrifice was a completely human act.

What was this feeling? What was this pain he was feeling in his core? Like a hole was opening inside of him, pulling itself wider and wider and causing him to wince. Was this...guilt? Garret was feeling guilt...guilt over killing an Arrancar? No, guilt for killing a human. He grit his teeth, looking away as the still living woman spoke her last words to her sister. No. Arrancar were supposed to be monsters. They were god damned Hollows! No matter how human they looked there was no way they could actually possess humanity.

But what he was watching before him had shattered that belief. What he was witnessing was a sister in mourning. He had no words to speak, he had no right to say anything. He had robbed Shiryou of what she cared for most in this world. Even the Beast was silent, it too completely rattled by what was being shown before it. Its whispers had ceased, the flame within him dying down. This isn't right.. Garret mentally noted.

His head turned back to Shiryou as that woman let out that scream. A screaming wail as she lost what was most important to her. He grit his teeth, wanting her to stop but never moving, never making a sound. What was he going to do? He couldn't do anything! He doubted Shiryou wanted anything from him, but god damn it he wished he could do something. If he had healing abilities then maybe, but gods be damned he had nothing. That was when it happened. He felt something in the air. He raised his head, watching as that invisible chain between them appeared.

He watched as the screaming stopped, the woman consumed into the light emitted by the chain. His eye narrowed as he heard the wails, gritting his teeth as that feeling of dread continued to grow. What was happening? A storm of reiatsu had appeared in place of Shiryou and Iraishin, and from that light came those tails. His eye widened as he watched them emerge, clearing away the area around them. Garret took a step back, watching as she appeared before him from that light. Shinzui was before him now, but it seemed different. This wasn't a release, this wasn't their Resurrection, and this was something completely different.

His single eye locked onto her face. That smile she gave him, that face that he so easily recognized. He frowned. Just like before when he looked at her he saw the woman who came before her. Even now he grew uncomfortable looking at Shinzui, seeing the face of the woman he once loved in her features. He knew they weren't the same, he knew, but they shared too many similarities. Her smile was met with a frown, as Garret looked down to where the two before her had been. His eye narrowed as she spoke to him. "My thanks to you, Garret. And how good it is to see you once more. Allow me to re-introduce myself. I am Noriko, and it is a pleasure."

A new name? His brow furrowed as he closed his eye, his fingers tightening together as he took a breath. "Shinzui.." He began to speak, and Noriko would notice how his voice seemed to tremble. As if he was incredibly close to being tipped over the edge. "Noriko, whatever you want to call yourself.." His words continued. It was hard to look at her. All he could see was Cassandra. But, right now, that wasn't what was on his mind. He raised his head, and Noriko would feel it. Like a pressure in the air it came down on her. His rage.

"What the hell is going on?" He questioned, staring up at her and seemingly not caring about the charging Cero in her hand.

[Noriko 'Asuka"]

The man before her found himself utterly lost when it came to her resurrection. At last the gate between worlds has been opened, and which allowed the Arrancar to return to the world. The brisk night air and scent of pine and oak of the trees weaved into her nostrils. A sensation she had not felt for a time. Fingers freely opened into the vast open space that was forged by the man, and the twinkling of the stars above signaling the arrival of her awakening. How splendid. HOW WONDERFUL IT IS BE BACK!

Her hand withdrew to weave the traces of wind and forest air over her head. Each bristle of hair that covered her tails tickled and felt amazing. The old sensations that humans were so ungratefully exposed to seemed to be new to the woman. She took it all in. Every single sensation and aroma that filled the world filled Noriko in the same means. She couldn't resist but let out an uncontrollable laughter. The girls that took her place in her life, the two that occupied her existence, were no longer in sight. Hints of blood and tattered garments were all that remained of the two.

Streams of jet black hair tangled themselves in the evening breeze, allowing the swirls of azure-black eyes train themselves on the Rogue. He spoke to her, or rather, questioned her of what transpired. How sweet. "My return to this world is graced with an audience. So many have come to witness my rebirth. For such, I thank you all." To whom was she speaking to exactly? Garret was the only one that was present. For now. And she knew all to well, after all, it was he who aided in her return with his curse. Her smile remained ever so firm across her face.

"You will be pleased to hear that I have returned to the world, Garret. And I have you to thank for it." That was the truth. It was the man's Osen that pulled her Arrancar spirit back to reality. It was he who led the girls to despair. Yes. "You called me. You weakened the girls. It was you who brought them to despair. The same despair that made me what I am. Yes... They are coming back to me." More than before, more than what Iraishin and Shiryou were able to put together. The fragmented memories that the two possessed final came together to tell pieces of her tale. Portions of her life flooded through her darkened irises.

"My life... stolen from me. My life... transformed for the worst. .. Time and time again shifted into the endless void in which I spent my existence in. All thanks to you humans. Yes.. Yes yes YES. All of it due to you humans." Bits and pieces of the worst of times brought upon her by the very humans who deemed themselves noble. Quincy believed that they were exterminating monsters when it was their race that help create them. No longer will she allow herself to fall for human lies. So, instead... "So, I shall create a world which such things will no longer happen. All shall be accepted into this world." Her being wallowing into the shadows of the night as the fire began to spread behind the Rogue male. "And you, Garret, shall be the first to witness what it holds."

So beautiful. SO MAJESTIC. She could feel her strength returning. Unlike when the twins released, when her time being limited, she had to rush and be precise. But now she can linger for as long as she wanted. No restraints. No collar. And no SHACKLES. "The girls are gone now, Garret. But, would you like to know what Shiryou's last thoughts were, before you took her sister away." Her toes dug into the cold soil beneath her. Absolute freedom. No longer did the girls keep her trapped within the void. But why not share with the man the lingering thoughts of the one who he left wallowing in her grief.

"WWHHYY?!.. WHAT DID WE DO WRONG?! I.. I.. I HATE THIS WORLD!" More cries of agony rang throughout the darkness that the night brought upon them, aside from the glimmering light the fire was able to emit. She was playfully tiptoeing around the man made meadow as she altered her voice to have herself sound like the twin. Shiryou's thoughts roared loudly in her mind, crying out for her dear sister, whom Garret took from her. Shiryou's grief allowed an opening for Noriko to assume her rightful place in reality. With Iraishin's spirit unable to continue its existence only her twin remained to fight against her will. Thus, Noriko managed to use that grief to merge the two. One wallowing in her despair, with another that ceased to linger among the living. Despair is what allowed her return.

From the shadows all the man will hear are Shiryou's grief ranting on endlessly. Her ability to mimic the girl was so keen because a part of Noriko was Shiryou, as well as Iraishin. Not quite accurate. They were a part of her. And because of that she knew a lot about the Rogue, his fighting style and techniques. And based on how he reacted when he struck one of the sisters, she was going to exploit that even further. Like a dull knife that was already embedded into him, she was going to twist and turn it until it seeped into his very soul. All of this to show that humans are the real monsters. To show him a glimpse of what it meant to despair, and then, to be saved.

Yes. Yesyesyesyesyes. To show him a glimpse of what her dream was. Her new world. He may have been confused, but no matter as the audience that she was referring to emerged. Three Hollows came from the shadows of the forest. All Adjuchas with more than likely the Rogues strength or less. And she knew it. They came for him as her existence was drawn out of the void. But, she wouldn't allow them to have him, because he belonged to her. She had use of him still, and no one was going to interfere. Which was why she would not allow them to take him. Much like Shiryou's cries of agony Toorima cried out. No less than 20 feet away from the man he would hear that blood cry of her technique pierce through the shadows before its light penetrated from behind the tree line.

That swelling of reiatsu exploding deep within her body roared, just as the light that came from that pent up energy seeping from her parted lips. And just as it released the trees cracked and snapped from their foundation. Torn from the earth by the small shockwave that only effected a five foot distance around her, the pulse of energy shot into a fine stream, into a Cero that lunged toward the man. It would be up to the man to take on her attack, or flee before it came for him.

Remaining Reiatsu: 1570/1870 : -250 Toorima x1

SPOILER: Click to show

{Toorima}

Technique Name: [Toorima - Cero]

Class: [4]

Technique Type (Kido, Hollow/Arrancar Technique, Human World Dweller Technique, Other): [Hollow/Arrancar]

Usable By (Technique is available to which races?): [Twins/Shinzui, or to others if taught]

Technique Element: [Darkness]

Technique Description and Effects (Explain appearance, powers, and effect):

A distant cry of agony, mourning, despair, pain... An unholy wail that fills the air that quenches the ears with pain to the point of sending shivers to the spirit. Using the very emotions and turmoil that gave birth to the Hollows, combined with the raw reiatsu that swells inside of the body, a phantasm of a Cero is generated. A Cero that had been developed by the subconscious that dwells within the twins, by Shinzui, mustered by the hoards of souls that have been devoured by the woman throughout the years. Now, their cries of pain and agony cry out while reiatsu is gathered.

As reiatsu is gathered those wailings causes the body to seize up with a short period of paralysis. Only but a few moments if remaining 25 feet away from the user, as for those that are within the radius will fall under a partial paralysis as well as disrupted thoughts, unable to focus the mind. This effect lasts but a single post. Why is this, it is due to the wailing that enter through the ears and through sight of the conjuring reiatsu that storms around the body while the Cero is forming. Although the reiatsu needs to accumulate to create the actual Cero it really doesn't take long at all, simply the same rate as any other Cero would take.

Once charged the technique actives like a regular Cero, but with added force. This Cero can not be activated or summoned to the hands or finger tips, but from within the user's body. This is what causes the reiatsu to wrap around the body before it is released from the mouth, and when released from the depths of the body, a small shockwave is created that pushes those from a 5 foot radius away. During it's release a loud shriek is let out, like that of a young woman crying out slowly to a high pitched scream.



How to use technique (How is it activated?):

Reiatsu is gathered into the body at the cost of 250 reiatsu for each Cero fired, and covers a 35 foot distance before dissipating completely.

Technique Drawbacks (Limitations, repercussions for use, etc)

First off are the limitations, which the Cero can only cover up to a 35 foot range, and for the side effects of the hazing of the mind/paralysis can only take effect within the range of 25 feet. For resistance there are several measures and options that can be used or taken to avoid or resist the technique. Firstly is the possession of Calm Mind, Strength of Will, or Battle Focus. Battle Focus, Calm Mind, or Strength of Will must be at a 2 for those who are at the same class level as the user to resist. For those who are higher class will only require a 1 in any of the stated Skills to resist. Lowers classes must possesses the 3 in any one of the required Skills to resist. This remains the same when the Cero is finally launched for those who are within the 5 feet range of the shockwave. Needless to say that a higher offensive stat is capable of shrugged off the wave without issue, but is those that do not are the ones who better watch out.

Secondly, the technique can be seen coming from nearly a mile away as it is charging with the reiatsu, and when it is released a low but raising cry can be heard. As for drawbacks, this does affect nearby allies whom may be within the radius for the secondary effects, and can be pushed back by the shock wave if their reiatsu strength is not greater than the user's. Following the release, the technique can cause some discomfort to the throat since the reiatsu has to erupt from within the body and come out from the mouth. When used a second time, the throat becomes sore if used within the same post or on the next post. The third will result in a raspy throat, only allowing the technique to be used once more. However, it does not prevent the technique from being used until after the fourth use, which results in loss of their voice for the remainder of the thread to allow sufficient healing.

While this form of Cero possesses other properties that can be proven useful, not all are susceptible to the paralytic effects. Those with a hearing disorder, or are deaf, will be affected it since those muscles are no longer functioning. But with continuous use of the technique throughout the same thread, at least 3 times, will cause a complete loss of their voice for the remainder of the thread.

Incantation and Effect:

None

Made By: {Twins}

Reserved? (Yes/No) (Can others use your technique, or just your character?): [Yes, but can be taught to others.]

SPOILER: Click to show

{Hollows/Adjuchas NPCs}

Class 3 Solider/Rank 1

Strength - 100 *30 [70]
Speed - 100
Spiritual Pressure - 100
Reiatsu Strength - 200*50 [250]
Light Aura - [0]
Dark Aura - [100]
Instinct - 50
Senses - 50
Energy Sensory - 0
Healing Expertise - 0

SP=600

[Garret]

Garret watched as Shinzui, correction...Noriko, lowered the Cero she had been charging after he had asked his question. His eye narrowed as he watched Noriko inspect the air around her, like a child reaching out to touch something they had never felt before. He watched, keeping an eye on her in anticipation of another attack or just something else. The swordsman was quiet as he watched, even when Noriko broke out into her laughter. Her eyes returned to him, that smiles never giving away as she looked at him. His ever present frown met with her smile. The announcement of her return having an audience made the Rogue blink, and then immediately realize what she meant. It was still night. His body was still under the effects of his Osen!

She had to be referring to Hollows, but even after looking around he saw none. Did she detect them while he couldn't? Where they hiding at the edges of his senses? Watching this scene transpire in interest, struggling to keep themselves from rushing at Garret, and waiting for the perfect moment to strike. His eye returned to Noriko as she spoke once more, explaining that her return, her resurrection, was all thanks to him. "What?" He asked between sentences. He listened intently as she explained, with a lack of finer detail, how Garret had brought her back. He called for her? What did that mean? When he asked for her? Or...was it something else. The realization was slowly creeping into his head what she meant. Why the Twins attacked him now. Was it his Osen that allowed her to be free?

But that had not been the only key. Bringing the two from before to despair had also helped progress the completion of her freedom. But...how did his curse fall into that? His Osen made him a lure for Hollows and their kind, a pull that attracted them to him. Had it been that pull that allowed her a chance for freedom? If so...then just what else was his Curse capable of? What more could it become? Her memories being returned to her, Garret simple stood and watched as she spoke, unable to find it in him to react. He was confused, sore from the guilt he felt over what he did to Shiryou, and that confusion was keeping him from doing anything at this time.

Noriko blamed humans for what had happened to her. Garret blinked, noticing that...similarity between them. Both of them wronged, lives cast into miserable existences due to the actions of other. How ironic it was that their lives had been ruined by each others. Hers by Humans. His by Hollows. Even he could feel that irony, and could even sympathize with her a little. Then Noriko explained her goal to the swordsman. A world of her own design, one where she would accept all people? What the hell did that mean? He thought back to their last meeting. The last thing she had said to him...

"What I plan to do, what I plan to create.. is a world that will no longer have to suffer that pain. A world that will know what it means to lose, and forever bask in the warmth of love."

The hell did any of that mean? Garret watched as she stepped back, vanishing into the shadows of the night. But her words did not stop there. Even basked in the darkness she still spoke, and yet Garret still did not raise his sword. His eye settled down on the remains of the tattered clothes and mask fragments, eye narrowing. That scream...he couldn't get it out of his head. "And you, Garret, shall be the first to witness what it holds." The Rogue raised his head and looked behind him at the ever growing wall of fire. He stared into it, as if it was something he had lost. He couldn't feel the flames within him right now. His anger...died out due to his guilt. A cold pain was all that was inside of him right now.

But why? Why was he suffering so over an Arrancar? When Noriko next spoke, his eye widened at her offer. He didn't like the way that sounded. Shiryous voice came screaming from the darkness, questioning and crying out her hatred of the world. Garrets eye narrowed as he winced, fingers tightening together. He didn't need to hear this. "Enough!" Garret shouted out. Why was it he was feeling so bad about his actions? He had maimed and killed plenty of Arrancar before, and even more Hollows, so why did those two affect him so? That hole in him grew wider as Noriko continued her assault on him, the Rogue lowering his head a bit to try and focus through it.

When Toorima came screeching, Garret finally woke up. He grinded his teeth from the pain, quickly covering one of his ears with his hand, unable to cover both without releasing his sword. He, unknowingly, was able to resist the paralytic effects of the technique with his Strength of Will. He watched that light emerge from the forest, followed by the destruction shockwave created from Norikos body, followed finally by the release of that Cero from her mouth. Garret didn't want to test his strength against it, so the Rogue followed the most logical decision and moved himself away from it. A short range Shunpo to his left, avoiding the beams width entirely.

Noriko was attacking him now? Then what was all that crap she was spouting a second ago? He didn't know, nor did he have time to ask. Members of her audience had already begun to move. Two of them, to be specific. Garret didn't notice it at first, but when that huge mass came charging out of the flames he barely had the time to raise his sword up as a shield to block the ram. The impact was outstanding, sending the Rogue off of his feet and flying back a few feet before sliding to a stop. The flat of his blade steaming a bit as Garret looked at the Adjucha that attacked him.

Massive, like what humans called a truck, the Hollow was a mound of muscle. An elongated, four legged body, it possessed a rather flat mask that had a large similarity to a shield, with one thick horn sticking right out ahead of it, and two that curved forward, like a pitchfork. It slowly began to pace towards the swordsman, giving him time to raise his sword. But not before he heard another sound from behind, causing him to turn in time to block two blades from coming down on him. Another Adjucha, but this one was...much different. It's body was narrow, long, and after looking at it for a few more seconds Garret realized why it looked so familiar. Its appearance was like of a mantis, though it was much larger.

I was looking for something. I wanted to know that there was a chance that Arrancar weren't just Hollows. I wanted to know that they were more than just human in appearance.

Garret grit his teeth and began to push back against the mantis, when, once again, he was slammed into by the other Hollow. He let out a snarl as he was sent skidding across the earth, before getting back onto his feet. The Two Hollows stood side by side, before separating and beginning to move to opposite positions around Garret. They were working as a team! The large one began to charge at Garret once again, the swordsman side stepping its charge and moving his sword in time to catch the mantises bladed arms. It raised up its free arm, aiming to bring it down on Garrets good eye, but the man blocked it with his bare arm. Flexing the muscles beneath his skin, he turned his own body into an armor to keep the bladed arm from slicing through.

And honestly...I wasn't sure why. Maybe I just wanted something to help calm my hated down. Maybe I wanted some hope that if she became a Hollow there was a chance...

Garret let out a pained roar as the larger Hollow came back around, catching Garret between its horns and sending him bouncing across the ground. Gritting his teeth, he pushed himself back onto his feet. They were coordinating their attacks together. He quickly blocked the mantis's strikes, before pulling away before it could grab a hold of Garrets blade. He stepped away just as the larger Hollow made its charge, and the swordsman brought that blade down at full force. Slicing right through the outer most horn, his blade got stuck on the horn above the face, but managed to smack the Hollow so its face dug into the earth.

But I managed to find them. I thought it would be Shinzui, but I see now that was just wishful thinking. She looks so much like Cassandra that I believed she would be different. But I see now...the ones I was looking for...where the ones I killed.

He continued to struggle against the two Hollows, his body being ripped and cut. He was making slow progress against the two Hollows, their teamwork working against the Rogue. He had completely lost track of Noriko at this point, unable to find it in him to focus right now. He stood ready as both Hollows took up opposite ends of him, the charger in front and the mantis behind Garret. They were both charging at once, and Garret wasn't sure how he was going to deal with them now. If he attacked or defended against one, the other would get him. This must have been how they survived to Adjucha, using team work.

So...what now?

You already know the answer.

Garret grit his teeth as the two Hollows charged him once again. The swordsman couldn't focus on one, so he decided to get them both at once. He would lash out with his arm, a balled up fist thrown out at full force at the larger Hollow. That barely visible force from before came forth, flying at the Hollow and obliterating everything between it and the target. His shockwave found its mark, the Hollows mask caving in for a moment before rupturing like an egg, its backside exploding with blood and innards as Garrets force obliterated its body. He swung, utilizing Shunpo Karin to increase the swing speed to 1000, and letting the momentum spin him. His high speed swing sliced right through the mantises abdomen, seperating it from the rest of its body.

There's no deeper meaning or understanding here. I killed them. Noriko may have lead them to their deaths, but I was the one to do it. I killed what I was looking for, that's that. It's my fault. And you know what? I saw it. I saw what it was I was searching for. I won't ask your forgiveness; this pain I feel is rightly deserved. But know this, nameless Arrancar, I won't let your death be for nothing.

Garret stomped on the mask of the mantis Hollow, crushing it beneath his foot as he raised his head once more. Where the hell did Noriko go? He had lost her during the fighting, but had every reason to believe she was still around. If she was as interested in him as she had led him to believe, he had a hard time believing she would just leave. His body stung all over, sore from the impacts and stinging from the cuts. The fire had grown massive, spreading into the forest around him now. He looked around the darkness, searching for the kitsune and waiting for whatever was next.

"It's almost poetic. You were wronged by humans, and I by Hollows...heh." He couldn't help but comment outloud.

[Adrastos]

Waiting. How much he despised the waiting. He was by no means someone's pet nor parent, Adrastos IS by every means the King of Beasts. His might reigned over an entire sector of the White Desert. Power which baffled those who thought were his equal. Each one of them demolished by the tyranny that was brought upon by his strength alone. No assistance, no friends, and no other above him. In every sense the beast was a King, and answered to no one but himself. A lass it was not meant to be as his food supply was next to nil. Meaning he had to scour the land for more, which minor events brought him and the twins together.

It was they who presented the Adjuchas with an offer that he deemed beneficial. They were to bring him to areas that will allow him to hunt more potential fodder for him to feed on. In exchange, the Beast King would guard the children. In some ways it was he who was protecting his servants. In other ways he knew something was amiss. For girls such as them to be able linger on in a savage world, in Hueco Mundo, there had to be something that enabled them to survive. He saw it in their eyes. Something in fact lingered within them. And when he fought along side them against the wrenched Shinigami he saw it. He saw her.

He understood it all. And quite frankly he couldn't care less as long as his rule wasn't put into question. By all means it is his right, and no human was going to say other wise. Kouhai would learn the lesson soon enough. First things first however, and that entailed developing his might and rule even further. Now, he was hungry, and merely stood at the place, within the confides of Las Noches where the two left him, to wait patiently for a sign. His stern will was answered when a trio of Hollows paced past his massive form and seeped away into the darkness that was the Garganta gate.

A gapping mouth split across the fabric of reality before him to transport the three to where they desired. Something like this hadn't been seen in a long while, at least since the time when he met with the human and Shinigami spirits. He'd piece two and two together. The behavior that the trio displayed were indeed similar if not the same to those times. So, that is where the two ran off to. To pay an old acquaintance of his a visit. Seemingly that they met with the human before just as he did. Before the darkness took him away, before he was able to sink his teeth into that roll of meat. This time he wouldn't escape nor be parted from the fate that was long over do.

The mantis and its accomplices ventured first, and didn't return for the first few minutes. The Garganta remained open, so he took it without knowing what mysterious land that it would have brought him to. Another land to awe at his strength, and employ fear to all those that gazed up upon him. Excitement, all there was to it. Into the vast void he marched into, and out to bear witness at a landscape that had been already mangled from a squabble. Bits and pieces of one of the Adjuchas littered the land in which he claimed, while the Mantis before him met the same fate. Two dispatched with little effort by a single eyed individual. That human from before. He was there.

Wouldn't have been too long before he would have dispatched the third creature from the group, but wouldn't have allowed it. As the Adjuchas rose to its hind legs it arched a single heavy paw over its shoulder to attack the human. Less than a second that the bear-like creature was severed in half by the large fangs that occupied Adrastos' mouth. Like a massive clamp his fangs snapped shut around the waist of the furry animal, leaving the remainder of the blood squirting half falling back onto its belly.

That fire to the side of them raged on, it tantalized the Beast King for only a moment as he engulfed the bits of his half with his razor bladed fangs to swallow. Undoubtedly his own appearance and the racket that filled the small area of the forest would draw the man's attention to the Adjuchas. Just as the human was the focus of his attention when he first came onto the scene. The only ominous thought was the lack of presence of the two annoying girls. He pondered. Could they have been in the shadows waiting, or, they could have been dealt with. Chances were fifty by fifty, so could have gone either way if the two had encountered the human spirit.

The eighteen foot giant towers over the human, nearly enveloping the human's figure with his own shadow. That light produced by the fire meant next to nothing as his hulking form foreshadowed him. Fangs drawn from the cover of his lips before initiating that Hollow's cry over the valley that contained them. The man had his full attention, however, the only thing that did linger in the back of his mind was the fact that another signature resided close by. And it didn't sit right with him at all.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats/Skills}

Berserker Stats

Strength - 350 *[150%] = 875

Speed - 200 [50%] = 100

Spiritual Pressure - 200 [50%] = 100

Reiatsu Strength - 150 [50%] = 75

Light Aura - 20 Points

Dark Aura - 80 Points

Instinct - 100 Points

Senses - 200 [50%] = 100

Energy sensory - 50 [50%] = 25

Healing Expertise - 0 Points

Total SP Points = 1250


1. Battle Skill - Physical Intimidation - [3]

2. Battle Skill - Pain Tolerance - [3]

3. Mind Skill - Strength of Will - [3]

4. Mind Skill - Battle Focus - [2]

5. Body Skill - Poison Resistance - [2]

6. Mental Skill - Lack of Fear - [2]

7. Utility Skill - Charisma/Leadership - [1]

OOC: 1 Class 3 Adjuchas Eaten

[Noriko 'Asuka"]

Alass they came, the audience in which she spoke of. Her inquiry of the man's unique ability to draw in Hollows was already spot on since she was able to use it to assist in her awakening. From the twins first encounter with the Rogue she had been analyzing the bewildering sensation that first drew the twins to him in the first place. That lure died out over a period of time, since then, day by day she had been feeling that same sensation on a daily basis. Not quite sufficient to lure them over and over again, but enough to cause some attention to be drawn. So she knew, Noriko knew that others would come when the time came, and so they have.

The first three emerged from the shadows just as they came through the Garganta. Their species were the only ones capable of such transportation aside from the Shinigami. Noriko felt the thrill of having new attendants arrive at the reception of her rebirth, though their performance was quite dull to say the least. Two of the three individuals fell before they could even display a memorable performance, and quickly thought that the third one would meet the same fate. Unfortunately it did, however, fortunately it ended with the arrival of one she was fond of. Finally, a guest who would surely usher in a marvelous show for the woman to enjoy herself. Though, she isn't one to remain on the side lines either.

That self-proclaimed "Beast King" came into the playing field after nibbling the useless trash that waltzed into their game, and began staring down the human spirit. How pleasant it was to see her guardian emerge to assist. Yet, when it came down to the man's unique ailment she couldn't allow the beast to tear her guest to pieces. That would have been a "no-no" for her. So a snap of red reiatsu was flicked from a single tail toward the beast's indented snout during their little face off before returning into plain view, "My my, you arrived just in time my friend, but it would be a shame to have you dispose of my guest, just as I was beginning to have fun."

Everything in her presence became an object to her amusement. Her rebirth into the reality required it to amuse her, thrill her, to fulfill her very being. Everything was meant for her, and no one had the right to take it away from her. Adrastos had better realize that he was in the presence of one of the Chosen People, that he was confronting a superior being than he was. Noriko IS Arrancar, while Adrastos IS a mere Hollow. Their social standings were beyond compared just as their intelligence was. "You are to refrain from causing my guest harm whilst in my presence, Beast." She mocked the Adjuchas without even a hint of respect as she tread past the man to face it, face to face.

Though her attention was drawn to the tyrant lizard it would have been best for the Rogue not to lower his guard, for if he had then the secondary snap issued by a single tail would have caught him. Not just a snap, but a gesture to muster a secondary Bala back toward him. This was so much fun. "Do not worry Garret. I still intend on showing you my dream. That world which I promise to bring about in this corrupt world." Her head tilted back for those swirls of azure-black to gaze upon him, upon the human spirit. And that smile, widening ever so slowly.



A third howling Bala came, this time from the tips of her fingers. This one however came to fill the air with clouds of dust and rubble. More than likely he would have remembered such a tactic from the last encounter. Although familiar this time came with a few subtle changes. Fire having lighting the area would surely cause her silhouette to form within the shroud of smoke, but not giving away to what she would be doing. As the cloud of earth filled their sights immediately two of the Kyuubi's tails lashed out to take hold of two trees to her side. Sturdy and untouched by the raging flames Garret could hear their roots being pulled from the earth below and proceed to strike at him with a horizontal slash.

Her strength of 600 allowed for such a task to be easy enough to accomplish, but it wasn't all there was to it. For if his attention was drawn by the two large barks of wood, then his focus wouldn't have caught to the three tails that came after them. Like whips they were twirled around when her body had spun to give them quite a bit of momentum before making contact with the man. Hopefully he would disappoint her with such simple targets coming to meet him.


Remaining Reiatsu: 1420/1870 : -50 Bala x3

[Garret]

A deep exhale escaped between his lips as the swordsman took a breath. It wasn't that his stamina was running low, it was just he appreciated the moment to catch his breath. Fighting those two had been a bit stressful, as it had been the first time in a long time he had faced against Hollows that utilized teamwork. But his momentary rest was just that, momentary, and was interrupted by the sudden sound of tearing meat and splashing blood. He quickly turned, jumping back a bit and raising his sword up as he witnessed the gruesome death of the mammalian Hollow that had been planning on blind siding him. Instead it became the meal for a much more powerful predator.

Before his eyes was a Hollow that he, at first, mistook for a Gillian. After all, only they got to the size he was seeing before him, didn't they? But after a moment more of looking he realized it wasn't a Gillian. It was emitting too much of a pressure to be one, it lacked the trademark black cloak all Gillian's possessed, more or less. Instead what stood before him, chowing down on whatever Hollow had been behind the swordsman, was something far more...intimidating. Garret was actually a little anxious looking at it. In fact, the longer he looked at the theropda the more he realized I've seen this Hollow before..

How many weeks ago had it been? How many months? He began to remember it more clearly now. That night he had met Taiho, that night he had first unleashed the Bakkoto, there had been a Hollow. One that the Captain had taken on herself, a beast far larger than all the others. He remembered having this same anxious feeling when he saw it then as well. He couldn't remember what had happened to it, assuming that Taiho had dispatched it, but now seeing it here meant that it had survived. The swordsman had been busy with his own Hollows that night, so he hadn't seen what sort of abilities it possessed. But now it was here, once again, and this time Garret was going to make sure that he struck it down. At least...so he thought.

A red flash struck the Adjuchas snout, followed shortly by the sound of Noriko's voice. Turning his head in that direction, Garret watched with a frown and an eye of confusion as the Arrancar put herself between he and the Hollow. The way she spoke, and what she spoke of, did not fill Garret with any confidence. In fact, it only served to raise his guard more. " but it would be a shame to have you dispose of my guest, just as I was beginning to have fun." His eye narrowed at that, prompting him to take a step back away from Noriko, keeping his sword raised at the both of them.

Noriko was not his ally. She was not his friend, she was not an acquaintance. While his feelings towards her where...confusing, the fact of the matter was that she was his enemy. An enemy that he had unknowingly, and unwillingly, had helped to push forward with her agenda. It had been him that freed her, and Garret was beginning to get the idea that such a thing was not for the best. He was a little surprised, however, at her next statement. She was commanding the Hollow to refrain from acting against him while in her presence. Garret was...confused. If Noriko had such power over the Hollows, then why act now? Why not act when he was busy fighting the other two. Unless...this one was special, unless she had some connection to the Hollow. Garret had run into them before, unique Hollows with far more individuality than the rest. They were stronger, had far stronger personalities and wills. It was they that behaved the strangest when it came to the effects of his Curse.

Hollows were drawn in by his curse. There was no resisting its call, they were lured in like fish to a worm. Like hounds to meat. But Garret had met a few, a small few that were able to resist lunging at him with mouthfuls of drool. They were able to retain, for the most part, their intelligence, able to resist the overwhelming pull of his Curse to a degree and to a time. One that he couldn't forget, a Gillian named Jyuria, had demonstrated this immensely. Garret still remembered it. Her crying, her begging, her pleading him to end what was pulling her to him. The Hollow did not understand that Garret had as much a choice in this as she did, but she kept on begging, pleading for him to end his curse. It had been causing her pain.

Was this Adjucha like Jyuria? Was he unique? Different than the rest? But back to the matter at hand. Noriko had commanded this Hollow to keep himself restrained, from attacking the swordsman. What was her game? His eye narrowed as it danced between the Arrancar and the Hollow, his mind trying, yet again, to wrap itself around this situation and figure it all out. But his attention was still sharp, sharp enough that he noticed the sudden flick in her tail and the appearance of that light. Garret quickly swung, before utilizing a Shunpo Karin at the moment that Bala came into range. Like a massive bat striking a ball, striking the Bala with the flat end of the sword successfully sent the orb of reiatsu veering off course, sending it into woods behind Garret.

Slamming his swords tip back down into the earth, Garret barred his teeth as his anger began to grow. Was all of this just a game to her? She tried to comfort him with words, stating she would show him the dream she so desperately wanted as she had promised. He was about to say something, when a third Bala was cast. This time, though, it was fired right into the ground, aiming to kick up a cloud of dirt and debris. Though her silhouette was visible through the cloud, Garret was unable to truly see what she was doing. The sound of trees being ripped apart caught his attention, as he looked to the left and the right to see her tails swinging ripped up trees right at him. Both at the same height and angle, aiming to crush him in like a sandwich.

Garret snarled, quickly planting his sword into the earth and jumping upwards, pushing himself higher by pushing against the tip of the swords grip. Both trees came slamming into the sword, Garret harmless as his feet landed on the two trunks. He noticed the three more of Noriko's tails coming at him, which caused the swordsman to rip his blade free of the wood and retreat backwards. He wasn't quite fast enough to get away, so he flexed the muscles beneath his skin to turn his very body into armor. He felt those white furred limbs strike his skin, whipping at him and leaving behind a stinging pain, yet perhaps to the Arrancar's surprise there was no damage. Garret came to a halt, hopping off of the trees he had been standing on a moment before, and was silent.

He was waiting, checking for any signs of the toxin that she had used against him in their last match. He didn't believe that Noriko had released, but he couldn't be too careful. He felt nothing. No drain on his reiatsu, so wave of exhaustion, no new negative emotions. He raised his head, looking at the Arrancar and Hollow, his eye narrowing as he sighed. "The hell are you even doing..?" He mumbled, just loud enough for them to hear. "You tell that big bastard behind you to not attack me, then you do the very thing you tell him not to do."

Garrets sword tip slammed into the earth as he raised his head, glaring down at the woman. "So, before I lose it...how about you, in fine detail, explain to me what..exactly...you are thinking right now." His voice was beginning to tremble, a sure sign that he was on the verge of losing control of his anger. He was on the verge of attacking, but he was getting sick of these cryptic clues. He wanted the straight answer, or he was going to attack. He wouldn't forgive being attacked again.

Remaining Reiatsu: 4300 / 4500
-50 for last posts Shunpo
-150 for Shunpo Karin

SPOILER: Click to show

{OOC} Adrastos, you should make a note in your post you ate a Class 3 Hollow, so the mods know to include that TP at the end of the thread

[Adrastos]

The beast howled. Not to the fact that a simple Bala scathed his eyes. Not to the fact in which the Arrancar before him lashed out at him, but to the fact that she was standing in his way from eating. No, not just eating as much as he desired to fight. Both if he was forced to say which was greater. The King of Beasts was being denied a right to do what he desired, what he wished for. And from among all those who would oppose him was none other than the woman who made the deal with him, Shinzui.

The situation itself had escalated from when the two girls left. From what they instructed him to do was simply wait until signaled. Unfortunately there had been no obvious means to alert when he was to make his entrance, thus, when the other Hollows began to make their move so would he. Never to his knowledge would he have known that their instincts would have led him to his destination. However, for some reason it felt as though they knew that such an occurrence would transpire, and so ordered him to remain until necessary. As the fully awakened Arrancar stood before him thrashing about he knew who was the conspirator behind it all.

Once, only once had the two met. That time, when fighting the Shinigami Lieutenant, was when they swapped words with one another. When they met Shinzui opened herself to him, and acknowledged herself as the true Arrancar. Much to his dismay that she wanted to tell her tale and how her rebirth as an Arrancar resulted in her current state. He grew easily tired of course, and much of the complicated issues meant nothing to him. A King as little to worry when dealing with a critical situation, as such, he dealt with it as he saw fitting.

Since then she had been dormant. Brief times she would appear before him to discuss matters, reinforcing his role at her side, much pertaining to their previous agreement. Adrastos didn't see anything wrong with it for the time being, but now, seemingly everything had changed. Well, depending on what her stance was with his rule. Although, considering what she had spoken of, referral to her "kingdom" the King of Beasts did not like it. The very idea of having another Kingdom within his own posed as an opposition. An opposition that had to be overthrown if she did not remove herself from such an agenda. If not, he'd remove her by force.

So far the woman had taken upon herself to transmute herself back into reality. By some odds means the solider that she faced off against was required to be present. He'd disregard what importance he played as the fact was she was attacking him now, and considering the playful use of words when referring to him. Through their little spat he had been ignored. But most importantly he had been challenged. Adrastos, the King of Beasts, was not going to tolerate such insolence. "Adrastos, DESTORY!" the Adjuchas cried out with its bestial tongue.

First off was to take care of his so called "friend." Only an inch did the beast give ground before initiating a lunging motion forward. Earth gave away to its weight and combined strength which sent a hand full of debris into the air behind him. The snout ripped open allowing the flesh riddled teeth and drooling bowls to be exposed as he charged. Those two parts widened to smash into the position that the Kyuubi occupied with such arrogance. Her strength alone was no match against the Adjuchas, no one was. Like the weakling before her his mouth would have torn her to pieces.

Rubble and large fragments of the Earth were to fill his mouth, along with ample amounts of the Arrancar's flesh. He hadn't taste the meat of Arrancar before but he doubted it wouldn't have suffice his hunger pains. Not only that but those nine tails would have probably given him indigestion too. Nonetheless, the human male would have been next either way. Those eyes, the gaze of that of a true monster staring down at the human. Jaws opened wide for him to see those spoiled remains of his earlier bites. Those same jaws that were lunging toward him once more. More than likely it would be his Spiritual Pressure that would win him the confrontation against the Beast King, but more than likely, Adrastos was counting on it.

[Noriko 'Asuka"]

This was going to be an exciting experience. A momentous occasion indeed for the rebirth of the Arrancar. Such a splendid show for the Arrancar to enjoy herself. The rush of battle, the freedom to move about in the world and feel the entirety of her strength returning to her being. Her senses awakening from the long period of hibernation within the void. The eyes of the Rogue glaring at her, that wonderful gaze of anger and hate. Such confusion filled him as he wondered as to why she did what she did. Quite frankly, she wanted nothing more than to feel alive again.

He barked at her, he cried out for answers, how naive he really was. Noriko is one of the Chosen People, and had every right to ask, to take what she desired. But first she will give the blind human what he sought, like an Empress to a peasant, from a higher being to a lesser one, "What I intend to do is to take control of the chaos that reigns over my home land of Japan. I shall rule over all Hollows and have them establish order." she said to him. Total control of her people, those lesser beings who were to become the Chosen, if they were deemed worthy. But then, there were the ones who were not able to be chosen.

"With my rule over all Hollows they will spread my will across the land of Japan and enforce it. Those who do not accept it shall know despair. For it is within despair that they shall seek out hope. And that is ME." The so called savior of Japan laughed. The very idea made her tingle all over. Just the thought of having those deemed unnecessary perish, devoured and brought into that same abyss that Noriko had to endure. "Hollows and humans are quite the same, don't you agree? Selfish and full of malice, which in the end brings calamity and ill intention against one another." her fangs bore down at the human in a malicious smile, all before the so called Beast King brought his fangs down.

Much like Garret he was slow. Compared to the both of them she was three times faster, so she was able to perceive their movements much easier. Although, the difference between them were their reiatsu strengths. There was a clear difference between Garret and the Adrastos. Between the two Adrastos was more difficult to track than Garret. However, among the two the Adjuchas made more noise, and despite his display of intimidation Noriko possessed a better Focus of what was going on. Her mind trained on the strength difference between the two, which was why the Arrancar thrust herself into the air when the beast crashed from above.

The utter shockwave that was emitted from the sheer strength of his attack was nothing to take likely, even fully awakened Noriko wouldn't wish to take it head on. Didn't mean that she wouldn't move in for her own little attack, to return the favor. Immediately after her leap her own body would be dropped down on top of the lower back of the beast as though to ride it. That fall working in conjunction with her 600 physical strength would surely cause back problems if not dealt with, especially when driving both hands like a club to apply further pressure into assault. It was then did the Arrancar continue with her word play against the man, or rather her explanation before the beast rudely interrupted her. "That is why I shall place that land under a single rule, my rule. Only then shall Japan know peace."

Once again, while on the beast's back or on the Earth itself her hand was directed upward at the man, a red sphere beginning to take shape in the palm of her hand. "But for now, I just want to feel it Garret... Make me feel alive again." That sphere cried out to lash out at the human while the beast would do as it wished. However, they wouldn't be allow. As it turned out four more Hollows came in to join their little festival of mayhem. As the flames behind them turned the mountain side into a cindering blaze their cries for food roared freely. And they would surely enjoy themselves.


Remaining Reiatsu: 1370/1870 : -50 Bala x1

SPOILER: Click to show

{4 Adjuchas NPCs}

Class 3 Solider/Rank 1

Strength - 100 *30 [70]
Speed - 100
Spiritual Pressure - 100
Reiatsu Strength - 200*50 [250]
Light Aura - [0]
Dark Aura - [100]
Instinct - 50
Senses - 50
Energy Sensory - 0
Healing Expertise - 0

SP=600