Another One [closed/Ailene]

[Raphael Laurent]

[ALL FOR DA CTP]

He’d finally had to come back to work, following his training on the mountain, and it had been only slightly disappointing. While he had a passable grasp on the interworking of particle physics, thanks to all that time he used to spend in the library, he didn’t feel like he truly understood intermolecular physics that went on in the bonding. If he could understand this, then he could finally perfect this technique of his, before Luca returned. He didn’t care how much his friend thought that Shinigami was the power that he needed, Raphael was going to utilize a power that not even Luca would understand. As a matter of fact, Raphael wasn’t exactly sure that he understood it himself.



That was what had brought him to the library today; he needed to do as much studying as possible so that he could understand what, exactly, he was doing. What kind of laws of physics was he blatantly flouting in seeking such power? But, realistically, it wasn’t as if fullbringers of the past had never done things like this, they’d just kept going. Like alchemists of old, they would deconstruct something from its original state only to put it back together in a state that they wanted it to be. He was just creating a field that accomplished half of that and then laced it over a reiatsu core to harm the spiritual world.



Even as he thought about it, staring at the book on beginner’s particle physics, an old college textbook someone had donated, the second problem dawned on him. How was he supposed to concentrate such a power? He had utilized such abilities as spirit waves that allowed him to concentrate the power into a ball, but this was something else entirely. Even when he’d been on the mountain, trying to concentrate such power into an orb wasn’t hard, it was trying to form a second orb of soul dominance to rip apart everything around it. It wasn’t enough to simply damage it with reiatsu; he had to make sure that the entire thing annihilated whatever it touched.



Slowly, he closed the book. Trying to think of the whole thing, right now, was a little complicated and he’d already been reading different articles online. He checked his phone. He’d been up for five hours, counting when he was awake back at his apartment. Sighing, he decided that he would check it out for a few days, take some notes on the most pertinent information and then move on to the next book. He had so much work to do in order to perfect it. Still, so long as he had it good by the time Luca got back? Hell, he’d be happy with the results.



Regardless, he was pretty happy along with sleepy; after all he’d finally figured out what it was that his fullbring did, he’d managed to awaken some kinda second fullbring. It was just a little skull thing that flew around him and didn’t really do anything, but he could only assume that it wasn’t exactly ready yet. It felt like he’d skipped over something way back when, but he couldn’t put his finger on it. Plus he’d figured out how to create at least one construct out of his energy. So far it was a good day. And, as he got near Uzaki Enterprises, he wondered what the hell could possibly happen on such a perfect day.

[Ailene Haschiro]

Deep within the halls of the fortress known as Las Noches, there was silence. This certainly wasn't out of the ordinary. After all, it was so difficult to find anyone wandering the halls. Sure, Ailene would roam them every now and then, but the other Espada were difficult to track down. Nowadays, Ailene was not sure on how just how many Espada there even were. Sometimes they cycled in and out so frequently. Other times they were just too weak and were killed off by one of the other Espada. This was only natural. The system was designed to allow usurpation by strength. If you were not strong enough to cut it, you simply were not worthy of a position within the fabled group.

Even so, this elicited a good bit of boredom of the Septima Espada. Leaning back into her seat, she looked upon the towers of books on her desk. She had read through them so many times. Living for centuries gave her the luxury of seeking knowledge, no matter how long it would take. But she was beginning to run out. Perhaps going to the library? No. Last time she did this, she was discovered and intercepted by some Fullbringer. This is when it hit Ailene. That Fullbringer, Luca. She wondered how he was doing. After all, their last encounter had left him bloodied, bruised and broken. In a turn of events that Ailene was not proud of, it was her handy work that led to this.

This was when she rested her chin against her hand. She wanted to make amends. To apologize for what she may have done. After all, her mind was not her own. Yes. She was sure of it. Perhaps he would forgive her and they could continue on with their conversations. That being said, Ailene quickly jumped up out of her seat and would take the next few days to prepare. After all, she needed to be ready to offer Luca some kind of a gift to make amends. But what could it be? Flowers? No, that could be misinterpreted. One of her books perhaps? No. It was either too little or not of interest to Luca. After all, the Arrancar possessed mainly books about philosophy and medicine. What to give. What to give...

---

[2 Days Later]

In Kakakura town, a beautiful and bustling town that held the headquarters for Luca's place of employment, the air would suddenly twist and bend. In one of the side roads, a sudden crack could be heard as the air simply snapped open leaving only a black void in its wake. From this void came Ailene would was holding some peculiar for an Arrancar. All who could see it would most likely notice that it was in fact a gift basket. Ailene had spent the better part of 2 days collecting all kinds of wonderful treats into this gift basket. Chocolates from Germany. Cheeses from France. Treats from all over Japan. She was even able to get a bottle of plum Saké. Sure she had met a bit of resistance in that time, but she tried to make her way through all of this to deliver this way of making amends. 

As a show of good faith albeit somewhat foolish, Ailene was dressed in her typical Espada garments. A white scholars robes with a satchel. Furthermore, she wore no facial coverings or any disguises. She was for all intents and purposes appearing like a normal Arrancar. Or at least as normal as Arrancar could get. She did very little to hide her spiritual pressure and her headband-like mask on her forehead was prominently displayed. Sighing softly, she began to think to herself. "Now just to hope that I do not run into any resistance. After all, I would hate for all this work to be for nothing." In hindsight, Ailene was amused. This could be her chance to show that not all Arrancar are bad. 

With that thought in mind, she was on her way. As she moved, the sword on her hip moved with her effortlessly. Of course she would at least carry her sword on her. Yes, this was a mission of peace and mediation, but she did not want to be caught vulnerable. She did, however, resolve herself to not draw it unless absolutely necessary. She needed to remain as inconspicuous as possible. Or at least as inconspicuous as an Arrancar could get in broad daylight. Much less an Espada. As she strolled through the streets, she got a good look at human housing. It reminded her of her time visiting the Rukongai. Though she was happy to see much less poverty present.

About 20 or so minutes later and the large building of Uzaki Enterprises was in sight. She could have made it there much sooner, but she did not want to spill anything from the gift basket. It needed to remain in pristine condition. As she approached, the features of the building became familiar. After all, the last time she was here was when she was not herself in Ressureccion. This, however, gave her a grander appreciation of the architecture now that she wasn't a 15 ft long wyvern who had lost her mind. Now she could actually admire it and get a good idea of its scope. In truth, this was going to be rather precarious, but she had to try anyway.

As the Arrancar approached the building, she began to notice those around her blink at her. Looks of shock, awe and some expressions of dismay met her eyes. She was not surprised that more around Uzaki would be able to see her. Most likely employees who were spiritually aware. Regardless, Ailene pressed on. Before making it to the entrance, she began to have a look at the building as others still peered at her. Where they trying to gauge her motives? Maybe. Well Ailene would just be seen holding a gift basket in hand as she sized up the building to see if there was a better way to not draw as much attention to herself for her own safety though she was not surprised. She sighed as she was simply left pondering. 

[Raphael Laurent]

He hurried back to the Uzaki Enterprises building with only slightly more speed than normal, wanting to make sure that…well, he didn’t freak anyone out by going too fast. He’d managed to borrow a book on the basics of particle physics that was only slightly more advanced than particle physics for dummies, something that bothered him and he was sure it would help a lot in his understanding of fullbring abilities. Rather, he was pretty sure it would help him understand what he was trying to do more. The next thing that he would need would be to figure out how to make a more dense core of reiatsu. That was the problem. Nor did he have the stamina to outright generate reiatsu. That was something that he was still working on. He felt that if he could do that it would open up entirely new worlds in his research on improving the spiritual capabilities of fullbringers.

Nearing the building, though, he couldn’t help but get a little antsy, and it was the feeling of a fairly strong spiritual presence, an arrancar, near the building. Losing interest in maintaining secrecy, he allowed himself to run much faster towards the feeling. He arrived just in time to see what was clearly the arrancar approaching the Uzaki Enterprises building. Several of the more aware employees, seemed to be having similar thoughts to Raphael, as most of them were staring without any thought to those that didn’t realize what was going on.

Raphael had had multiple run ins with hollows, few of which had been good, and he vaguely remembered running into an arrancar once, though that had been more creepy than anything else. Seeing no one else apparently want to deal with this, Raphael walked forward quickly and stood quietly beside her for a brief second.

“Don’t say anything and don’t do anything. Just keep going with me. We’ll have time to talk here in just a bit. I’m more than willing to listen to everything, but not in the open.” If she went with him, he would lead Ailene into the building and then to the elevator where he would take her down to the basement dojo where they could talk freely. If not, well, that would be another bridge to cross…

[Ailene Haschiro]

Needless to say, Ailene was truly the life of the party. As she stood there, before Uzaki Enterprises, it was no secret that those who could see her either had a fire in there eyes or they were simply shocked by her appearance. Then again, the only normal aspect of Ailene right now was the gift basket she had crafted for Luca. Other than that, her white robes, boney prominence and Zanpakutou were not doing her any favors. It was this fire in everyone's eyes that admittedly made Ailene despise being an Arrancar. Combat was the last thing she sought. After all, the former fight with Luca is what brought her here today to make amends. Her eyes quickly skimmed across the group.

She saw many employees, passerby's among others, but none of them matched Luca's appearance. Just off of this, she could assume that he was not in this crowd. It seemed that as her presence had made numerous people anxious, she began to see many among them clutch items. From her encounter with Luca, she had learnt about the Fullbring and what it represented. After their fight, Ailene had tried to do as much reading as she could. Fortunately for her and for them, Ailene had not come to fight. Then again, why would they believe her an Arrancar. He spawned from a Hollow after all. There was reason to distrust her. Before she had time to open her mouth and call off everyone, however, a certain man began to approach her.

As he drew nearer, ending up beside her, Ailene tilted her eyes towards him as she listened to him speak. “Don’t say anything and don’t do anything. Just keep going with me. We’ll have time to talk here in just a bit. I’m more than willing to listen to everything, but not in the open.” The tone of this was just above a whisper. Hoping to avoid a confrontation, Ailene simply nodded, clutching the basket tight. With that, she would slowly follow Raphael, still drawing scornful attention from those around them. If looks could kill, Ailene would be murdered dozens of times over. She tried not to take it personally though. She was above needing to please everyone if it was simply her presence that was the bother.

Following Raph, Ailene would get a good look around the inner lobby. It was a rather impressive room with plenty of seats to relax while waiting, receptionist desks and the typical marks of a well-oiled company. Admittedly, Ailene was impressed. It was far more active than the empty, yet beautiful, halls of Las Noches. The white halls of Las Noches had a very sterile look to them which is an aspect that Ailene liked, but this was certainly more of a haven for social interaction. If she was here in disguise, Ailene would have even considered exploring the grounds, but alas straying from Raph was the least desirable thing at the moment. After all, Raph seemed to offer her a place to talk.

As they entered the elevator, Ailene received more jaded looks from those around her. Sighing audibly, her facial expression matched her melancholy disposition. To be despised simply for who you are. It was an aspect of humanity that Ailene truly did not like. To just turn your back on what is easy to blame. Outside of her release, Ailene typically tried to help those where she could. Sure, she was loyal to Kouhai and by that token, loyal to Las Noches and its goals but that didn't mean that she craved death and destruction like her peers. No, instead she preferred diplomatic approaches. Regardless, as she heard the characteristic ding of the elevator, her eyes had to adjust the the changing in lighting of the dojo. Artificial lights where less preferable to her after all. 

As she left the elevator to walk into the room, she set her basket down next to her. Assuming that Raph was now with her, she would speak in a very smooth and amused tone. "Well I suppose I should thank you for being reasonable and not just attacking me on sight. Unfortunately, I'm not sure if I can say the same about your colleagues. I was actually worried that they would pounce on me like a pack of wolves. Better that nothing escalated. I'd hate to have to kill anyone while I am here." Ailene's eyes focused a little more clearly on the Fullbringer before her. She began to try to get a read on his posture. Was it hostile? His clothing and overall demeanor seemed to be casual, but Ailene would still try to maintain an aura of caution.

Her expression would slowly become less suspicious. She gathered that if he wanted her dead, he probably wouldn't have gone to these lengths to establish some privacy. She chuckled as to meet his eyes, she had to look up the tiniest bit. Seemed that he was one..no two inches taller than her. She would continue with her spiel. "Well. It would be rude to not identify myself though I hope that I am not going to elicit any fear in you." With that she gave a polite bow, very archaic. As she rose back to her height, she continued. "I am Ailene Haschiro, Septima Espada. As you can guess my actions and demeanor so far, I am not here to hurt anyone." 

She began to tilt to the side to grab hold of the basket as she giggled softly, a departure from the bloodthirsty stigma that Arrancar carried with them. "The reason I am here is simple. I wanted to give this to who I assume is one of your coworkers. I believe his name was Luca..." She looked up as she tried to recall more information about him. "Really hard to miss. Looks quite young. Impulsive. Carries around a lighter which he can fashion into a spear." She then held up the gift basket to display that it was well...a gift for Luca. Ailene just waited to see if Raph would be caught off guard by her strange demeanor or even her reasons for being here.

[Raphael Laurent]

Thankfully, and without any protest, she agreed to follow him. Thankfully the areas that they decided to head to weren’t all that...secret, realistically, and he knew that if she’d wanted to hurt anyone then she would’ve. Perhaps, realistically, that’s why he’d taken her down to the dojo so that way no one would be prompted or tempted to attack a hollow like this. Even he could sense that she was quite powerful, though how, exactly, he wasn’t entirely sure. Anyone that was capable of seeing spirits was obviously seeing Ailene as the two walked through the lobby but he neither said anything or acknowledged what was going on. The ride down the elevator had a few people that glared at her as well, but no one said anything.

He waited until the door opened and the two of them had stepped out into the light of the dojo and walked into it. While his mannerisms weren’t hostile in the slightest, quite the opposite in fact he was very relaxed, he still looked a bit skeptical. He’d never heard of arrancar coming to the world of the living for any reason than to terrorize, maim or kill. To make matters worse, he’d heard of the espada before, when he’d run into one a long time ago. He didn’t know much other than that they were the powerhouses of Hueco Mundo. He’d never done major research beyond that because he didn’t care all that much. It wasn’t his area of concern or expertise.

He listened to her for a while, watching calmly, hands in his pockets. Standard MO to analyze and learn but there wasn’t much that he could learn from her, at least not in the way that he was always hoping to learn. Her stance was as relaxed and unmotivated to attack as his own was. When she mentioned the name Luca and held up the basket, he couldn’t help the quirk that rose from his left brow. It was odd to have an arrancar come to one of their own.

“Yes, I know Luca, believe me. And yes he’s still young, by most standards, though I’d wager that even the oldest human is young by yours.” He gave her a polite wave. “Heya, I’m Raphael. Raph, if you please. Luca’s a friend of mine. I won’t lie, Ms. Ailene, I’m rather surprised to see an arrancar come all the way out to the world of the living to give a gift basket to a fullbringer. Why did you want to bring something like that here, may I ask? There must be a reason.” He then raised up a hand, as though to reassure her. “Unless you attack me, I won’t attack you. You don’t need to be concerned.”

[Ailene Haschiro]

As her eyes fixated on Raph, she was happy to see that there was no malice behind his movements. In fact, he seemed to analyze her. Ailene was rather good at this herself so she could tell rather easily. Regardless, Ailene was waiting on one sole confirmation. Did he know Luca? After all, if he didn't he may prove to be of little use to her. If she were any other of her peers, this would mean that Raph would most likely get blasted with something. Perhaps a bala? A Cero if she wanted to leave no trace. Then again, Ailene was not her peers and she was happy to be friendly and rather gentle. After all, if there is one aspect of being an Arrancar that she loathed, it was the stigma that she carried around. 

Thankfully, Raph expressed his familiarity with Luca. “Yes, I know Luca, believe me. And yes he’s still young, by most standards, though I’d wager that even the oldest human is young by yours.” Ailene could not help, but chuckle. Raph brought up a fairly good point. Based on Luca's past actions and demeanor, it wouldn't be hard to determine that he was young. Especially within a world where supernatural entities could reach ages in the centuries, even millennia. "Well I would be remiss if I did not agree with you. I myself am nearing an age of....Oh what was it?.." Ailene began to ponder deeply as to her own age. It was on the tip of her tongue and thankfully was a memory that she still had. "Ah yes! I'm nearing an age of 700." 

She was not attempting to show off with her age. She didn't feel that there was a need to. She did, however, like to express herself in conversation. To let others get to know her better. Her demeanor, overall personality and interests. These were all ways to connect better to those that she conversed with. Raph would be no different in this scenario. Though before she could continue, Raph resumed. “Heya, I’m Raphael. Raph, if you please. Luca’s a friend of mine. I won’t lie, Ms. Ailene, I’m rather surprised to see an arrancar come all the way out to the world of the living to give a gift basket to a fullbringer. Why did you want to bring something like that here, may I ask? There must be a reason.”

Before delving into her reasons, Ailene nodded as she heard his name. Raphael. It was a name that she was sure to remember. "First, there is no need to stand on ceremony. Simply, Ailene will do." She smiled and chuckled softly as she continued. "As for the other...I am not surprised that my presence may seem odd or even threatening. The latter more applicable to your colleagues. In truth, I was worried that I would not even have a chance to explain myself before being attacked. Though I suppose you are in some vain, a savior." She chuckled and began to entertain the thought. "Ah yes. The Septima Espada being rescued by a member of Uzaki Enterprises. Quite the entertaining thought without much context." 

This was undoubtedly Ailene's greatest flaw. Her incessant prolonging of a given subject. She could talk for hours, going on and on about one topic only to abandon it and jump to another. Though, thankfully, her reasons for being her gave her the focus to not belabor or entertain the point. "Well. As for my reasoning for bringing a gift basket, that is quite an interesting tale." She sighed as she paced back and forth, appearing to ponder for a moment. "I suppose to start...the gift basket is simply to make amends. I'm not sure how many people Luca told, but he and I met a bit ago. Back when I was the Noveno Espada. I was in the library of a University when he arrived." 

Sighing a little as the memories stung, Ailene looked at Raph. "What you have to understand is that I detest fighting. I'd rather talk. Pursue my scholarly desires. Thankfully Luca was receptive to this at first. Unfortunately, as we began to delve deeper into the conversation, he asked me to spar. I begrudgingly accepted. At the time, I was angry. I felt as though he was twisting my words. In hindsight, I should've taken a step back. Reevaluated the situation. Perhaps then I would not have done what I did." Ailene was beginning to appear visibly disturbed by the memories. It was as if something within them made her reel with self-disgust. She could not turn back, now, however. 

"Well perhaps it was out of malice or even out of something more benevolent such as self-defense, but I turned to releasing my Zanpakutou." The shudder grew. "Rapahel. When this sword fades, I lose myself. To the bloodthirst. To the hunger. To the Hollow inside. Unfortunately, this is what happened to Luca. I delivered him a grievous wound. I was going to finish him off. Devour him yet...something at the edge of my consciousness told me not to. That there was an alternative to shedding blood that night. So, I let him live. I carried him to Uzaki Enterprises and instilled him with something. That he was not strong enough to fight me. That he was incapable of crossing the ocean of strength that was between us." 

As Ailene finished, there was a sudden return to normalcy. She did not appear as discomforted. Her stance displayed relaxation. Letting out a labored sigh, she continued looking at Raphael. "So then. This is the reason that I have brought this basket. To try and put the past behind us. Though...there is one thing that I need to know. What became of him? Of Luca?" Ailene had pondered on this for a while. What exactly occurred with him after he was left on the doorstep of Uzaki Enterprises. More importantly, did she do too much to harm him? Did she break him? Or did she give him resolve, sending him on a fool's quest. "After all, this is the main reason why I am here. Not to say that you havn't been a gracious host. I owe to you, in part, my getting this far." 

[Raphael Laurent]

He nodded, thoughtfully, as she discussed her age. He didn’t care much for what his peers were thinking, those that had watched him with fullbrings at the ready or even just ready to try to use soul command. Many of them could’ve potentially died if they had tried to attack her. It wasn’t worth it. Fighting, especially here and now, was pointless which was why he’d brought her here. He watched her, with a bit of a smile. Kindness wasn’t a weakness, he knew, especially when she hadn’t done anything.

As she said to simply call her Ailene he nodded and pulled out a notebook and began to jot some things into it. This Ailene was certainly a wonderful breath of fresh air; the facet that some would go against what was their kinds’ normal modus operandi gave him some hope. It was fragile and singular, sure, but it was most definitely a reason to hope in and of itself. He couldn’t help but chuckle along with her, when she began to note the humor of the situation: an espada “rescued” by an employee of UE. It was certainly a situation that, without context, would make many question what had happened.

She began to speak of what had happened, on why she was bringing a gift basket. Usually speaking, Raphael knew the reasons to bring something like that: 1. You were apologizing or 2. You were coming to meet a neighbor or it was someone’s birthday. This…seemed like the latter, to Raphael and, as Ailene continued, it seemed very much that this reasoning was the former. He watched as she winced a bit at the memories and then as her face contorted with contempt for her actions. Her actions were certainly reprehensible, but from what she described it sounded as though releasing her weapon caused her to lose control of herself. Such a thing could be powerful, but dangerous. The lack of control was a horrifying thought.

He waved a hand at her thanks, as if dismissing it. “You don’t need to thank me. Gifts should not be squandered; at the very least one should see why a gift is being given. Nor, do I think, you can be completely faulted for what happened. Oh, Luca? He’s… Well, I’m pretty sure he’s fine. He’s still alive. He’s kind of away right now but unless something happened to him while he was gone, then he’s still all good.” Raphael stretched his arms and shoulders out a bit. “But, in such an instance that your release is so powerful you can set your weapon aside for now, if you’re concerned.” He removed the ring from his finger, walked towards the far wall and put it down. “As a sign of good faith, I will do so as well. Now, I’m glad that you’re wanting to come back to make amends, but don’t feel too badly. Luca has a fairly bad habit of getting carried away.”

[Ailene Haschiro]

As Ailene asked about Luca's state of being, she did feel a sudden rush of anxiety. Perhaps out of worry that Luca was in danger?  Or perhaps just that he gotten himself into trouble. Given their prior interaction, Ailene could get a good understanding of Luca's character. There was much about it that she found vain, selfish and overall arrogant. A dangerous combination of traits. Yet for some reason, Ailene felt that if something happened to him, that she was at fault. It troubled her greatly. Despite being an Espada. An Arrancar, she was showing concern for someone who would most likely try to kill her. Or have some negative disposition towards. 

As Raph spoke, Ailene's mind was put at ease, even if it was rather miniscule. “You don’t need to thank me. Gifts should not be squandered; at the very least one should see why a gift is being given. Nor, do I think, you can be completely faulted for what happened. Oh, Luca? He’s… Well, I’m pretty sure he’s fine. He’s still alive. He’s kind of away right now but unless something happened to him while he was gone, then he’s still all good.” Her overall disposition still displayed that of concern. This showcase of sentiment may have appeared rather odd as Ailene was still a Hollow. Or the result of a Hollow's journey. They were not typically associated with empathy. 

Though, Raph would seem to allude to her prior story as he said his next piece. “But, in such an instance that your release is so powerful you can set your weapon aside for now, if you’re concerned.” Ailene was a little amused by this. Did she worry Raph? Was he curious about what she possessed? Ailene then watched as Raphael moved to the outer wall and placed his ring beside it. Ailene glanced at it for a moment before remembering how Luca utilized a lighter. That lighter then became a spear. The Espada began to tap her chin as she continued to listen to the Fullbringer. “As a sign of good faith, I will do so as well. Now, I’m glad that you’re wanting to come back to make amends, but don’t feel too badly. Luca has a fairly bad habit of getting carried away.”

Ailene could not help, but be interested in the mechanics behind these Fullbringers. A fullbring is what Ailene believes she remembers as the name of their release. Regardless, Ailene would get to that soon. She spoke in a rather amused tone still. "About my release." She slowly brought her sheath with Ausbruch nestled calmly within from her waist and began to walk to the wall. She then slowly set it against there before rising. "I'm not so much concerned about my power itself. It's more what the power both enables and compels me to do." She began treading back towards Raph as she smiled a little. "As I said, you've been a gracious host and despite my sitting in the belly of the beast, I am willing to put my arms aside." 

If Raph was able to get any spiritual read on her, he would find her to be rather unimpressive. One could even call her weak in comparison to the traditional Espada. In truth, while not assuming her form, Ailene was weak. Such was the price of locking away a release such as hers. To stay in control, she needed to seal away large portions of her power. More than most Arrancar. This, however, typically meant that she was a forced to be reckoned with when she utilized her release. For unlocking incredible power, much of that power needed to be sealed away most of the time lest she risk losing herself and becoming a mindless beast. Much like a Hollow. 

"Now. I do have a question. Well one question and an offer." Ailene relaxed once more and smiled. "You Fullbringers seem to have these interesting items. I remember that Luca carried a lighter around which allowed him to fashion it into a spear. Is this unique to him? Or all Fullbringers capable of such transformations?" Ailene chuckled as she reasoned that she might as well try to get some information out of this. Yet despite that, she felt she had a secondary debt to repay. "As for my offer. You've been rather helpful in my endeavors. You've listened. Surely I could repay the favor somehow? I have centuries of knowledge to draw upon so if there is anything I can help with, do let me know." 

[Raphael Laurent]

What it enables and compels her to do? It sounds almost like it’s a separate entity entirely, instead of a part of her that she separated. Peculiar… She seemed to stroke the sheath with her hand, as if she was hesitant to part with it. What kind of power did it afford her? Did she lose control of herself when she used it? If what he was thinking was correct, he was concerned; no matter how strong and impressive, such a power was a double-edged sword and wasn’t one he’d want. Though, perhaps that spoke more on what he preferrred: control over power.

Oddly, as he sensed her power, he noticed that she didn’t feel nearly as strong as he would’ve expected her to be, given her title. In some ways, he wanted to question her further as far as to the truth of his hypothesis, but he felt that such a thing would be as invasive as it would be rude. He stretched just a little bit, as she watched him with a curious, ponderous gaze. She seemed to be quite curious about things, and Raphael shared such a nature, wanting to learn as much as he could about the world around him, both pyhsical and meta-physical.

“Oh, it’s not unique to him,” Raphael replied, gesturing to the far wall where he’d placed his ring. “Fullbringers of sufficient strength are capable of utilizing such a technique. I don’t know who the hell named it, but that’s where this name is derived, as the release is literally called fullbring.” He tapped the small bird shaped pin on his jacket and it suddenly turned into a small dinosaur-like skull that orbited him for a few seconds before floating behind him to his left, staring at her. “There are two different ones, at least from what I’ve found. This is my secondary, though it hasn’t really awakened to anything, as of yet.” As it watched her, Ailene would notice that while it had normally had two white eyes, every now and then the eye in the right socket would disappear and the one in the left would turn blue, before it returned to normal. “Honestly, I’m fairly similar and was going to suggest a similar exchange in information. I’m more concerned about the acquisition of knowledge.”

He scratched his chin as she mentioned her offer. “I would say an exchange of information would be most appropriate. I can ask a question, as you did, and should you feel comfortable answering it then you can do so.” He put his hands in his pockets again. “I believe that there’s a great deal the two of us can learn about one another and I’m always happy to learn.” He smiled as he watched her. “Given that I’ve already answered your question, I shall ask mine: Your sword is a zanpakuto, that much is obvious. How does that work for a hollow-like being?”

[Ailene Haschiro]

As Ailene posed her questions, the Espada patiently awaited an answer as her eyes focused on Raph. She was truly interested to hear Raphael's response to her questions. Among the Arrancar, Ailene was inquisitive. She was curious and explorative. She was truly different from her peers. Ultimately it seemed that Raph would begin by answering her first question. “Oh, it’s not unique to him,” This alone would be a satisfying answer though Raph seemed to humor her curiosity even more. “Fullbringers of sufficient strength are capable of utilizing such a technique. I don’t know who the hell named it, but that’s where this name is derived, as the release is literally called fullbring.”

Ailene nodded silently as her eyes followed the Fullbringer's hand. Motioning at the ring, Ailene nodded as this provided far more insight into the subset of spiritually aware humans. Did each one of them have some kind of unique object? What was the defining characteristic that connected it all? After all, if this was not unique to Luca, there need to be some kind of unifying factor. Perhaps value? Worth to the user? But then again. What made the object valuable to the user if so? So many questions that she did not have the answers to, but she did not wish to press too hard into the topic. After all, it seemed that Raphael had something else to show her. 

It was quite the interesting display of ability. The pin on his shirt suddenly transformed into a small skull resembling that of a dinosaur. Ailene's eyes certainly widened as she was absolutely bedazzled by this new development. Her eyes darted over to the skull as it peered at her with an eerie look. Despite this feeling of unsettlement, she did not display it. Ailene was a soul that was able to suppress her display of emotion. At least those of surprise, diversion or even in some cases fear. It was not that she did not feel those emotions. She was able to avoid a display of those emotions, however. She nodded and smiled as Raph explained its nature along with dismissing the skull.

“There are two different ones, at least from what I’ve found. This is my secondary, though it hasn’t really awakened to anything, as of yet.” She began to ponder on it. If this skull was the manifestation of his Secondary Fullbring, than that would mean that the ring was the other half. A first Fullbring? A Primary Fullbring even? Ailene was not sure what to call it. Yet she would look at Raphael with intent along with a calm intensity. Raphael then proposed the due payment. “Honestly, I’m fairly similar and was going to suggest a similar exchange in information. I’m more concerned about the acquisition of knowledge.” Now Raphael was speaking her language. 

Ailene was going to let him offer his proposal. “I would say an exchange of information would be most appropriate. I can ask a question, as you did, and should you feel comfortable answering it then you can do so. I believe that there’s a great deal the two of us can learn about one another and I’m always happy to learn. Given that I’ve already answered your question, I shall ask mine: Your sword is a zanpakuto, that much is obvious. How does that work for a hollow-like being?" Ailene continued to smile as she nodded. It seemed that one of positive qualities of humanity manifested itself. Curiosity. Exploration. All concepts that Ailene openly embraced. Now it would be her turn to answer.

The Espada's voice would be calm and soothing. "You both impress me and fill me with trepidation Raphael. For one, you speak a language that I can appreciate and understand. A hunger for knowledge. A lust even for the passion of understanding the unknown. It is a powerful driving force and I am happy to see it. As for the trepidation. It was this kind of exchange of information that I fear compelled Luca to seek quarrel with me. The spar that led me to tear the very flesh from his bones. Though I fear this scenario, you have shown a certain...maturity that Luca lacked. I am willing to repay my debt to you in full. Though do not misunderstand." 

Ailene paused for a moment as her gaze sharpened. Her voice became notably darker. Colder. "I provide this information in good faith. You are a fellow student of knowledge. So I can relate to that. Yet the information I give will not be to the detriment to me or Hueco Mundo. I may be different from my fellow Espada, but I serve the King of Las Noches first and foremost. I hope that I am clear." As she finished, her expression would soften once more. Her eyes and gaze became peaceful. Her voice would return to the soothing and maternal state that she often assumed. It was the best way to hold a conversation. To build trust. Ailene saw value in this. 

Regardless, she continued. Now as to your question. It is important to understand that while both a Shinigami and myself may wield a Zanpakutou, there are a number of key differences. The most primary of which being a second soul. The Zanpakutou of a Shinigami which you may know has a Zanpakutou spirit. This spirit is a companion to the Shinigami. A mentor. A part of them. Another key difference is the way the Zanpakutou is fashioned. From what I remember reading, a Zanpakutou is fashioned from a nameless blade. The blade then adapts and molds to the soul of its Shinigami. This creates an inseparable bond, Those are the two distinct differences." 

Ailene pointed to her blade as she spoke. "Arrancar like myself do develop a Zanpakutou, but it is no sentient weapon. The way it develops is during the transition from Hollow to Arrancar. An Arrancar could be simply defined as a Hollow who has gained the abilities of a Shinigami. Our Zanpakutou is simply a vessel. But it is not a vessel for a spirit. Instead, it is a vessel for our power. The original essence of our power as Hollows formed into a single blade. Of course, there are likely anomalies even among that. But that is the general way that an Arrancar gains a Zanpakutou. Though I do admit a sense of envy myself. A Zanpakutou Spirit. A lifelong companion. Certainly sounds like a gift. Someone who truly understands you...." 

The Espada looked up as though she was pondering for a moment. With a chuckle and shake of her head later, she continued. "But I digress. I hope my answer provides a sense of satisfaction. If so, I do have a question of a more personal nature myself." Her eyes skimmed over to look upon the ring near her blade. "Your Fullbring...why is it an object? What defines the object? For comparison and clarification, my Zanpakutou is the pure essence of my Hollow-being. So why is yours a ring? Do these Fullbrings' have value to the user? Like a sentimental object? I apologize if my theorizing is inaccurate or to personal. I suppose you have simply intrigued me." 

[Raphael Laurent]

He watched, listening slowly as she spoke, it was an odd thing that he should find such a kindred spirit within an arrancar: the spirit of knowledge and to understand. Apparently it was the same kind of desire and demand that Luca had wanted from her, and it was exactly what had led to the young man being so horribly damaged by her. That didn’t surprise him. Raphael had learned many things about Luca and when the man wanted, he could be a right damned fool about it. Raphael wasn’t about to demand something such as a spar. Spars were a fairly rudimentary way to gather information, partially relevant, but not as incredibly useful as other ways.

As she described her terms, that she wouldn’t give any information that might be of harm to herself or Hueco Mundo he couldn’t help but shrug, hands still in his pockets. He cared nothing for politics, except for where they effected humanity as a whole. The politics of Hueco Mundo and shinigami were about as interesting as the politics of the normal world of the living, to him. Meaning that were the two to get into some big war in their own worlds, he wouldn’t care, but should they bring it to the living war he would be against the both.

She jumped quickly into her explanation of the zanpakuto differences. He was quite aware of the unique, disturbing, nature of the zanpakuto of the shinigami and the fact that it housed a secondary soul, one splintered from the soul itself. It was what he found so horrifying about the shinigami in question. But as she began to explain more about the difference that arrancar zanpakuto had from shinigami zanpakuto, Raphael couldn’t help but draw similarities between the two weapons and even fullbrings. He nodded when she said that she hoped it was good enough. The very understanding that one simply housed former power versus a splintered soul was more than good enough for starters.

“Well, the object isn’t the important part; without the object having sentimental and significant importance whatever the object is wouldn’t become a weapon. Your hypothesis is quite correct. My ring, for instance, used to belong to my birth mother and was given to me when I was young by my adopted mother. She was the one that fostered my love of learning, even though I’d had no powers of my own while she was trying to teach me. That is also, ironically, where both my jacket and this pin come from. Both fullbrings have their own special abilities, though my second has yet to awaken to its prowess.” He chuckled. “I’ll be honest with you, though, I’m rather surprised you asked about our weapons instead of one of more dangerous abilities.”

[Ailene Haschiro]

It seemed that her explanation of the differing natures between the Zanpakutou of an Arrancar and a Shinigami sufficed. Ailene's skills of analysis and deduction allowed her to read body language quite well not only in combat, but in social situations as well. The last thing she wanted to do is upset her gracious host. In truth, Ailene felt a debt had to be paid. Raphael had taken a risk by allowing an Arrancar into Uzaki Enterprises. Even more so due to performing the act in front of his colleagues. The least Ailene could do was to indulge him. To entertain the idea of a sharing of information. One thing was for sure, however. The differences between him and Luca were night and day.

While they both requested the same initial desire, a sharing of information, it was there their individual mannerisms that set them apart. Luca was brash. Inexperienced. Perhaps even arrogant. He wanted to seem a threat to Ailene. To try and foolishly compare himself to her, an Espada. Not that she wasn't amused by the attempt. Unfortunately she also recognized that there was a severe lack of communication between the two. Sure Luca was asking for it. But then again...Ailene knew that she could have stopped it. She could have simply declined. Stopped this whole scenario from being necessary. She felt...regret. Even shame. Feelings that she was not sure how to contend with.

Meanwhile Raphael presented the things Ailene loved about humanity. He did not seem to lust for power the same way Luca did. He was inquisitive. Analytical. Much like Ailene. It was a language that the Espada respected and understood well. He seemed to have a better grasp on situations and thought about his actions while weighing the consequences. As Ailene pondered more and more, she realized just how many qualities she appreciated about Raphael. Perhaps this could be someone she could turn to in the Human World. To perhaps mend the stigma about Arrancar. At least Arrancar like Ailene. She knew that the stigma associated with them was well deserved.

As she asked her own question, she was met with surprise that her deduction was for the most part, accurate. “Well, the object isn’t the important part; without the object having sentimental and significant importance whatever the object is wouldn’t become a weapon. Your hypothesis is quite correct. My ring, for instance, used to belong to my birth mother and was given to me when I was young by my adopted mother. She was the one that fostered my love of learning, even though I’d had no powers of my own while she was trying to teach me. That is also, ironically, where both my jacket and this pin come from. Both fullbrings have their own special abilities, though my second has yet to awaken to its prowess.” The Espada simply nodded. Though Raphael's next comment would make her raise an eyebrow. 

“I’ll be honest with you, though, I’m rather surprised you asked about our weapons instead of one of more dangerous abilities.” This was amusing to Ailene in hindsight. She shook her head with a chuckle as her eyes descended back upon Raphael. Once again, her voice was soothing. Calm. "Would you prefer I did? I've no desire to feel out or discover the threats that your abilities pose. Not out of feeling high and mighty. Trust me I don't. In my current state, it stands to reason that you could easily defeat me." She chuckled at the bluntness of her own statement. The admittance of weakness without her Zanpakutou. It was not something that most would tell to those who could one day be her foe. 

"I'm not a very violent soul, Raphael. Unlike most Arrancar I don't seek the destruction of all you hold dear. Don't get me wrong, I could with use of my Zanpakutou. I most certainly could, but I have chosen a different path from my fellow Arrancar. Some feign peace for their own purposes. Manipulation is the hallmark example. Mine, however, is genuine. I've to admit. Your humanity. Your nature intrigues me. You present positive qualities of humanity. Meanwhile I am expected to represent the monsters of the afterlife. Monsters that crave death, destruction and carnage. It is for that reason that I have no desire to feed into that stigma by asking about your destructive capabilities though I would be lying if I said that I was not intrigued." 

She would smile before returning to the topic of weapons. "I also ask about your Fullbring because it intrigues me. For each of the different races that I have met, the weapon they wield is an extension of themselves. Not necessarily in some martial arts concept. Instead quite literally. There's no rhyme or reason behind why my power or abilities turned out the way they did. The process behind it intrigues me. What is the deciding factor behind why an Arrancar like me developed the abilities I did as a Hollow? Why do some Shinigami have fire powers? Why do some control blood. So on and so forth. Its the mystery of it all that I adore the most." 

"Your Fullbring is intriguing to me then because of the sentimentality it holds. Despite all I have said, do you mind if I ask about your capabilities? What can this Fullbring of yours do? When Luca and I fought..he struck me with his. It was certainly an illuminating experience to learn more about the nature of a Fullbring in the place where it feels most likely to be used. In combat. Even despite the unfortunate results of that fight." The Espada smiled as she awaited Raphal's response. Though she was worried. Would Raphael ask to see her ability? Would she be forced to unleash the beast within her? To risk destruction? Only time would tell.

[Raphael Laurent]

“Not so much that, was just surprised is all. Nor did I plan on asking to fight you. Realistically, I’d just ask to see the abilities themselves, at least the basics, just as a way to understand the hollow abilities better. It would be a nice way to figure out why even fullbringers can utilize some abilities similar to hollows.” He watched her, still a bit concerned that he might’ve offended her. That hadn’t been his intention and it was something that he disliked doing. When someone had come to him like she had, there was no purpose in doing so.

He listened to her intently as she spoke that she didn’t mean harm. He believed her intensely when she spoke of using her weapon and didn’t want to tempt fate anymore than he already had. Manipulation? That sounded very arrancar like and her explaining that she wasn’t like others of her kin gave him a small sense of relief. Yet, listening to her, he couldn’t help but think that she misunderstood the reasoning behind his question. Raphael didn’t want to have the power for power’s sake; he wasn’t Luca after all. No, Raphael wanted to learn to have the knowledge, to figure out what exactly was the purpose behind her power. He just wanted to understand the spiritual world.

When she asked about his own ability, after describing her battle with Luca that had left Luca bifurcated, Raphael smiled a bit. The smallest bit of pride tugged at his heart. “Well, I’m more than happy to give a small demonstration. My fullbring, thankfully, doesn’t need a specific target to function, so there’s no need to be all too concerned about me hitting you, or a sparring match, unless you’re particularly wanting one.” He chuckled a bit, before holding his left hand out towards where he’d put his ring. Within seconds it lifted and flew to his fingers, wrapping around the ring finger of his left hand and then, not missing a beat, placed his hand on his ring and concentrated. The ring suddenly transformed into a gauntlet that covered down to his left elbow, his hair had turned white and his right eye seemed to have a blue flame within it. He closed his right eye, then took a pencil from his pocket tossed it into the air and activated his fullbring’s power. For a few seconds the pencil simply hung in the air, then pointing his hand in the direction of a far wall, the pencil suddenly accelerated and flew at the wall, slamming into it and embedding in the wall and then stopping. “Vectors, basically. I can change the flow of gravity on something and send it in the direction that I changed the flow of gravity to.”

[Ailene Haschiro]

As Ailene delved in the reasoning for why she asked about Raphael's Fullbring, she was relieved to hear that Raphael was understanding. It seems that he understood her better than she or even he may have initially believed. Kindred spirits. Though Ailene had to admit that she was surprised. After all, Raphael had expressed an interest in learning about the basic of Hollow and by extension, Hollow techniques. He clearly had a keen mind which Ailene picked up on as he expressed similarities between the abilities of a Hollow and that of a Fullbringer. This struck a cord with Ailene. After all, her discussion with Luca about Fullbringers had been enlightening.

As she pondered back to when she had first met the hotheaded Fullbringer, she remembered what he had said about how Fullbringers come to be. How a mother needed to be attacked by a Hollow while the future Fullbringer was in the womb. These residual hollow spiritual energies would then imprint themselves on the infant. It was a process that while fascinating was likely filled with much grieve and pain. Ailene sympathized with that. She herself did not have a very bright past when she was still alive. Rather when Kazuna was still alive. He had lost his entire family to the plague before succumbing to it himself. Ailene herself could only feel the emotion behind what happened to Kazuna without being able to recollect the events themselves. 

It seemed that the time for potential strife was nigh. As Ailene asked to see Raphael's capability via his fullbring, she noted that he smiled. She blinked, truly not expecting that reaction. As he responded to her, Ailene was as silent as a grave. “Well, I’m more than happy to give a small demonstration. My fullbring, thankfully, doesn’t need a specific target to function, so there’s no need to be all too concerned about me hitting you, or a sparring match, unless you’re particularly wanting one.” Ailene scowled for a moment. Not because Raphael had irritated her or anything. Nay. The prospect of a fight. Even a spar was terrifying to Ailene. She wondered if the result would be the same if she gave into that idea.

For now, Ailene was just happy to see him form his Fullbring into a weapon. It was an interesting experience as the ring within mere moments changed form into a gauntlet of sorts. Though there was more to it than that. His hair had become pale white while one of his eyes developed a pure blue flame. Ailene was ecstatic and intrigued at the same time. The change was minimal, but still a physical change imparted onto his very form. This was not too different from an Arrancar. Unlike Raphael though, an Arrancar's Resurrección imparted a full physical transformation upon its user. Regardless, the change was still there and Ailene took note of it. 

As Raphael moved this pencil into the air where it simply seemed stalled in mid-air, Ailene pondered on what he would do with it. Could he change its shape as well? No instead it would be far more interesting. The pencil simply darted forward toward a far wall where Raphael had pointed. As Ailene watched it accelerate and crash into the wall, Ailene's eyes glazed over with wonder. As Raphal explained the nature of his Fullbring she listened carefully. “Vectors, basically. I can change the flow of gravity on something and send it in the direction that I changed the flow of gravity to.” Ailene nodded as she continued to look at him with glee. She would want nothing more than to share her ability as well although hers was far more sinister by comparison. A terrible affliction from an era long since passed. 

As Ailene spoke it would be clear that her mind would be in two places at once as she seemed to space out as she spoke for a few seconds before returning her gaze upon Raphael. "That is quite the fascinating ability that you possess. To influence gravity on a whim. Marvelous." She paused for a moment as she aimed to address Raphael's hinting at her offering a sparring match. "As for a match. I'm afraid that there is a massive risk to you if I accepted. Nor do I want the fate that befell Luca to fall upon you. You are a much calmer spirit than him and it would be a shame to make an enemy out of you. No matter what my intentions are going into a sparring match." 

She chuckled for a moment. "Besides, I am, for lack of a better phrase, in your house. I do not want to impose any threat onto you or the others who work here. In truth...if I am to show you my ability, I would need your willingness to put me down if I became enough of a threat." She believed her words may seem perplexing to Raphael. She had essentially told him to kill her if she utilized her Resurrección and posed too much of a problem for them to handle. "For now, however, I can opt to show you something else. A taste of our abilities. Fair warning they are rather destructive though I can tone it back." Ailene would slowly bring her hand up to her hair as she pulled out one of needles keeping it in place.

The Espada's hair would fall from the bun and flowed down to display far longer hair. She smiled as she began to concentrate some reaitsu through the metal of the needle. Having effectively utter mastery over the power and flow of a Cero, the needle would take on a glow. This glow would soon become brighter as the purple shroud around it elongated. It would surpass the needle and extend almost an entire inch outward creating a perfect tip. "One of our most fundamental abilities on the smallest scale that I can fashion. A Cero." She chuckled a little. "I certainly would not recommend touching it. My Hierro provides me a modicum of protection, but it is a shroud of burning reiatsu. Touching it will likely sear the flesh clean off your hand." She would maintain the shroud over the needle if he wanted to study it for a few moments. After about six or so seconds, Ailene would stop the flow of reaitsu leaving only the superheated steel of the needle that was slowly beginning to cool down.

[Raphael Laurent]

“Influencing gravity is, perhaps, the fun part. Also, I wasn’t asking for a sparring match. I was only saying that if you wanted to have a sparring match.” Raphael shrugged a bit. He wasn’t all that concerned about the prospect of having a sparring match or really a fight in general. The only thing that he was concerned about was an examination of the different abilities of the hollows and arrancar. “I understand what you mean, and that’s perfectly fine. If you were to become a danger to the people around here, my first goal would be getting rid of you. But, like I said, I’m not too concerned about fighting you.”

Raphael watched, intrigued, as she pulled a needle from her hair. The first thing that fascinated him was that an arrancar would be concerned about overall appearance, though they weren’t as alien as he’d originally assumed. They didn’t just exist to destroy things, she was evidence enough of that. Further the needle in her hand began to glow with reiatsu until it began to turn a light lavender. The reiatsu extended about an inch from the needle forming a perfect point. “A cero… Fascinating. Burning reiatsu… An even more interesting prospect. But you say that it will burn me if I touch it?” He nodded and looked at the cero more intently, studying it and memorizing its composition. The way that it looked and felt was interesting and much different than what he’d thought.

“The closest thing that I can think of that a fullbringer can do…” He held out his hand and Ailene would be able to feel energy extremely similar to that of a hollow gather into his hand and form into a small crimson sphere about the size of a golfball before forming into a spinning disc. He held it up for several seconds before dismissing it. “I can’t rightly recall what it is, but I’m pretty sure normal hollows have the power to use it as well. Otherwise, we have spirit waves that are fairly close to this cero. But I have created something that can cause similar destruction, without a heat. Though, I do not have a thick skin to protect me, and overuse will greatly injure me.” He held out the same hand that he’d generated the Hollow Seed with and concentrated, slowly a dark purple sphere formed in his hand. He also allowed Ailene a few moments to examine the orb, before tossing the pencil far away from the two of them and then tossed the orb at the pencil. The moment that it hit, the orb expanded into a much larger sphere nearly ten feet in diameter. As the technique concluded, both the pencil and a bit of the floor below where the sphere had expanded would both have come apart.