Hospital For Souls

[Deleted]

This was it. This was the day that the last six months of all of the effort she'd been pushing through had led up to. Abandoning her old life, achieving what was thought to be the peak of Shinigami ability through Bankai on her own, squaring up against her old Captain, everything had been indirectly preparing her for this moment. The question is, was she ready to do this? To make a decision this life-altering, to effectively sell her soul once more to a different group this time? It was all something she'd need to think about, but ultimately she didn't have the luxury of time in order to actually do so. Camila let out a deep sigh as she stared down the white sands of Hueco Mundo.

---

Not an hour earlier, Camila had spent her night in the Human World hunting down a hollow; any hollow, really, the specifics weren't something she necessarily needed to keep track of, she simply needed a way to get into Hueco Mundo; into the realm currently under lockdown by the Shinigami traitor Sonken Kouhai. Over the last hundred years she'd heard quite a bit about him from various sources; those speaking his name and idle chitchat while she spent her time in Soul Society, to the mention of the name from Hollows and Arrancar she'd encountered over the years, to even a name drop from one of the current Espada during her skirmish with the girl; Ailene Haschiro.

Given who that man was, and everything he'd accomplished thus far, she was fairly certain that this was the path that she needed to take. Her issues with Albin were only continuing to grow by the day. Perhaps he'd be able to help her? Was there a possibility that this man who had all but reached divinity-esque status would be able to help her truly resolve her inner hollow situation? Surely he had to be able to. And if that meant she'd need to sign away her life in order to get that done, then so be it. There was far too much she could stand to gain from becoming an ally to Las Noches. Following a hollow back through... whatever it was they opened up to get home was the easy part.

Once she made her way into the barren hell that was Hueco Mundo, she scoured across the desert in order to make sense of pretty much anything. Struggling to see much of anything across the horizon, Camila sighed. She crouched down, and, through the use of the Shinigami step technique, threw herself up as high as she could. Doing a quick spin before gravity did its work, the young girl tried to search for something; anything that looked like the castle of sorts that Las Noches had been described as to her. As she began to descend, she was lucky enough to see something in the distance that vaguely resembled a building. Had she been that lucky?

Having no other leads to go off of, Camila began to make haste south of her current position in the sands, in order to get over to whatever it was that she saw. At the very least, a long walk like that gave her the time to think about all of this; about what could happen to her otherwise. To be siding with another Shinigami deserter- no, the Shinigami deserter, what would come of this? What would come of all of the relationships she'd formed over the years with those she considered her friends? Celes? Ludwig? Was she truly prepared to throw all of that away? Clenching her fists as she walked, she did what she could to mentally reassure herself. They had to be lying. All of them; there's no way they couldn't hate her at this point. Both Celes and Ludwig had already tried to kill her after she left, how could they not have hated her? This was the decision she needed to be making for herself. She needed to seek out Kouhai.

Within an hour of embarking on her little walk, Camila was eventually upon a rather massive structure sticking out in the sands. Huh. She had been that lucky. Smiling to herself, she knew by no means that making her way inside was not going to be easy. The place was likely heavily guarded, and she genuinely questioned whether or not she'd be able to make her way through it all and into Las Noches itself. She'd need to come up with some kind of game plan, but ultimately she had no idea what to expect. Perhaps taking a few moments before entering was the best option? Perhaps taking the time to plan out what could happen to her if things went south?

[Ailene Haschiro]

Books closing. Pages rustling. Muttering. All this and more could be heard as Ailene was peering through her library of scrolls, books and other literature found in her room. The Arrancar, fitting her appearance, enjoyed being studious, but she had gone through her resources numerous times. It wasn't like there was anything better to do. The Espada were few and far between in numbers. Las Noches had guards and Arrancar roaming the halls and the White Desert, but they were of little interest to the Espada. Then of course there was Menos Forest, but to Ailene it was mostly an observational research opportunity. To watch Menos and Hollows alike interact with one another. Yet not even this could satiate Ailene's ever-studious mind.

Leaning back into her chair, she sighed as she rubbed her temples. Looking up at the ceiling, she began to talk to herself quietly. "There has to be something of worth. Something of note..." She mulled it over in her head as she continued to speak, her voice growing, but still only audible to herself most likely. "I suppose Lord Kouhai may have something for me, but I shouldn't disturb him. He always seems so busy. Finding very little time to talk and command us. The Espada. His elite." Sighing and rising to her feet, finding the time to stretch, Ailene just muttered to herself. "Perhaps a walk will do me some good. To clear my head and do my best to relax. Not overthink things." 

With swift motions and a sudden close of the door to her quarters, Ailene was walking down the halls of Las Noches. She had to admit. She did somewhat enjoy the vacant halls. Gave her time to think without much interruption. The last thing she needed is for her fellow Espada, Rio, to disturb her peaceful walk. It was no secret that Rio in particular was the model example of what most think of when discussing Arrancar. A disaster-craving creature with little more on his mind than the spread of violence. Admittedly, the very thought of that behavior was repulsive to the Septima Espada. Sure, she wasn't exactly an angel herself, but she certainly seemed to possess more diplomatic capabilities along with social skills. 

As the Espada walked into one of the many halls where the ever present glow of the moon shone, Ailene looked into the distance. The barren wasteland known as the White Desert. Sure, there were Hollows of all shapes and sizes, but they were just that Hollows. Ailene pitied them. Forced to an existence of endless hunger and cannibalisms. Mutilation of peers and more. It was an existence that Ailene certainly did not miss. Yet as her gaze drew closer and closer to the walls of Las Noches, Ailene saw the most peculiar thing. A sight she surely did not expect to see. Someone walking along the perimeter of the mighty fortress, leaving a long trail in the white sand.

Ailene began to bite her lip out of both excitement and trepidation. It was immediately apparent that there was no Hollow mask. So she clearly was not an Arrancar. Yet upon closer inspection and enough time, Ailene recognized her for who she was. A peculiar individual with whom Ailene had both worked together and had quarrel in the past. Camila. A member of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads of the Soul Society. Ailene began to mutter to herself once more. "Now now. What's a Shinigami of the Soul Society doing here?..." It was then that Ailene remembered back to there most recent encounter. The creature that possessed her. Was she one of those Shinigami bound to a Hollow that Ailene had heard a bit about? The logical opposite to someone like her. An Arrancar. 

The Septima Espada of course knew what the rules demanded of her. To dispose of the pest. Such was the way of the Espada. Although, Ailene was not like other Espada. Or like other Arrancar for that matter. She carried a much gentler soul. Besides, Ailene was curious what a stray like her was doing here. In the heart of the enemy. Sighing, Ailene took a few steps forward. As she began to come to the edge, she continued on. Most would think that she would be at the mercy of gravity. This was not the case. Ailene's feet came into contact with the air. Densely packed with reiatsu. Using a skill she had learned, the Arrancar had learned how to create platforms of reiatsu to stand and walk upon.

With a relaxed cadence, the Espada began to travel overhead. The air, being so dense with pure Hollow reiatsu, made it reasonable for Ailene to assume that this skill of little effort would give her away. At least, if Camila decided not to look up and especially behind her. For a time, the Arrancar would most likely choose to follow Camila. Eventually, Ailene decided to explore this situation more intimately. With a slow and descending cadence, Ailene began to lower in altitude. To most, it would seem as though she was walking on a downward staircase made of air. Sighing, somewhat she made sure to keep her distance. After all, the last encounter ending in a fight. The Espada could reasonably assume that she was on guard.

After a few short moments of observation and floating just above the white sands surrounding the large fortress, Ailene began to speak out. Her calm and gentle voice most likely familiar to the Shinigami. "Well then. I'm surprised to see you of all people here. Someone walking in the belly of the beast. Both with such confidence yet also caution." Ailene was particularly analytical. As such, she could read Camila's body language quite easily. She could tell the Shinigami was proud of herself for making it this far. Ailene, not drawing her sword or showing any buildup of reaitsu outside of the platforms that she was standing on continued. "Yet I am forced to wonder. What are you doing here. It's dangerous around here you know." Ailene was not attempting to be condescending, but there was truth to what she said. 

[Deleted]

"Well then."

These words immediately startled Camila. She recognized that damned voice. Turning around, drawing her blade, and looking up toward the sky, she saw a very familiar Arrancar standing in the air. Weird, she didn't know that could be done here. At the moment though, that was neither here nor there. She refocused on Ailene as the girl descended. "I'm surprised to see you of all people here. Someone walking in the belly of the beast. Both with such confidence yet also caution." Her grip tightened around her Zanpakuto. Unfortunately her scabbard had been stolen by a certain someone, so appearing like she wasn't constantly on the offense was significantly harder than before.

"Yet I am forced to wonder. What are you doing here. It's dangerous around here you know." "Look. Past differences aside, I'm not here to pick a fight. I know dammed well how dangerous it was to make the decision to head here, but that doesn't change the fact that I'm here now. This is Las Noches, right? Home of Shinigami traitor Sonken Kouhai?" She looked around, pretty much all but confirming the fact that this was the case considering one of the Espada had been here. It was somewhat hard to assume otherwise. She figured this had to be it, and took a seat up against one of the walls. Camila let out a long, drawn out sigh and pierced her Zanpakuto into the sands of Hueco Mundo by her side.

"You've no clue just how long it took me to make sure this was the right place to be. Er, Las Noches, that is. I ended up having to scour through so much useless information just to find anything on the damned man back when I was still in Soul Society- Wait. It's been quite some time since we last met, huh? Quick side note, but I'm no longer a Shinigami. I've gone rogue. Back on topic, and on that note actually, I'm here to seek out Kouhai. I figured that, if anyone could help me with that little hollow... 'outburst' you saw when we were last locking blades, it'd be him. Hell, if it means that I've the need to sell my soul in order to get that done, then so be it."

At this point, Camila had been completely sure of her decision here. She knew what her new goals were, and how to achieve them. She needed Kouhai's help. Nobody else was really going to be able to help her, and this was the best opportunity she had. "If..." she started, before pausing, "if you know where I could find the man, I'd very much appreciate it if you'd be willing to help. And uh, sorry about our last fight. I stepped over a line with what I said. Hopefully that's all water under the bridge now?" Cami chuckled to herself as she stared up toward the girl. She was hoping for a lack of any offensive action from her, but should something spark, she was going to be ready for a fight.

[Ailene Haschiro]

Upon calling out to the Shinigami, Ailene noticed the immediate reflection of caution in her. The stance along with drawing her blade indicated that much. Ailene tilted her head. This one was always quite quick on the draw yet that amused Camila. To some degree, this Shinigami was much more like them. Like an Arrancar. Always drawing her blade and wanting to go the violent route. While this did fascinate Ailene, she was also repulsed by it. It reminded her too much of Ryo. Yet here they were. Talking for now. Ailene was hoping to keep it that way. The last time the two of them fought, Ailene chose to use her release. After all, she had very little choice. 

Upon becoming an Arrancar, Hollows seal their abilities into a blade traditionally. Though Ailene was aware of historical instances when an Arrancar successfully sealed their abilities into a foreign body. Ailene was one of a few souls who sealed both their power and ability into her release. This made her notably weaker in her base form as she was. In fact, it made her a pushover for an Espada. Losing her impressive cognitive and social faculties was not something that she was fond of, however. Lately, however, she has had moments of her two personalities becoming one and making decisions together. It was truly bizzare and oftentimes, she was unaware until after.

For now, it seemed that Camila had something to say to her. Being courteous, Ailene let her speak freely. "Look. Past differences aside, I'm not here to pick a fight. I know dammed well how dangerous it was to make the decision to head here, but that doesn't change the fact that I'm here now. This is Las Noches, right? Home of Shinigami traitor Sonken Kouhai?" Ailene couldn't help, but chuckle. She wasn't trying to pick a fight? Laughable. The first time the two of them ever met, Ailene was trying to reason with the Quincies diplomatically. Camila instead chose to use any chance she had to slaughter them. Ailene was not entirely able to take her words at face value. 

Ailene spoke upon hearing mention of Kouhai, however. "This is indeed Las Noches. Furthermore, it is the home and fortress of both Lord Kouhai and the numerous Arrancar under his service. Though he is so much more than a traitor. He is the King of Hueco Mundo. My lord whom I defer to and serve. Yet I am forced to wonder why a Shinigami would like to meet Lord Kouhai..." Ailene began to ponder. She couldn't have been her to kill Kouhai. They'd need something far more substantial than Camila. So was there an ulterior motive? Some little aspect that she wasn't considering? It seemed that Ailene's question would soon be answered as Camila continued briefly. 

"You've no clue just how long it took me to make sure this was the right place to be. Er, Las Noches, that is. I ended up having to scour through so much useless information just to find anything on the damned man back when I was still in Soul Society- Wait. It's been quite some time since we last met, huh? Quick side note, but I'm no longer a Shinigami. I've gone rogue. Back on topic, and on that note actually, I'm here to seek out Kouhai. I figured that, if anyone could help me with that little hollow... 'outburst' you saw when we were last locking blades, it'd be him. Hell, if it means that I've the need to sell my soul in order to get that done, then so be it."

This was becoming more and more interesting. She no longer considered herself a member of the flock? One of the Shinigami. It seemed that this would also simultaneously answer her question on why she needed to seek out and meet Kouhai. Ailene remembered the incident well. Some other spirit began possessing her body as the two of them fought. What was most notable was that Camila's power seemingly began to increase as a result of this possession. Ailene's Hierro had actually been pierced for a moment which under normal circumstances was untouchable to the Shinigami. Ailene couldn't help, but smile. After all. Camila seemed to have more to say. 

"If you know where I could find the man, I'd very much appreciate it if you'd be willing to help. And uh, sorry about our last fight. I stepped over a line with what I said. Hopefully that's all water under the bridge now?" Ailene was very clearly thinking it over as the Shinigami or she should say, rogue dug her blade into the sand beside her. Ailene turned to her side with her hand upon the hilt of her Zanpakutou. She then held it before her as she stared at it. "You have an interesting reason for coming her Camila." Her eyes fell upon Camila before her. "I am sympathetic to your desire to get this little problem of yours under control. I was once at the mercy of another force. The eternal hunger that plagues all hollows." 

Ailene's voice quickly became louder. "You and I are quite alike. As a hollow, I became somewhat of a legend around my town more than 600 years ago. I have both the beauty of hindsight and bloodstained-memory to see it. A legend of a monster that resides in the woods. Would pluck children and parents alike from their homes. Those I cared for. Whose company I enjoyed. All betrayed. Slaughtered and devoured by my own hand. You on the other hand. You betrayed those closest to you I'm sure. In the Soul Society, you are assigned into Squads. I'm sure they are like family. How did they feel? I feel deep remorse over my actions. Do you?" Ailene would show no aggressive action besides drawing her sword though it seemed like she was inspecting it more than anything as she waited for Camila to explain herself.

[Deleted]

"I am sympathetic to your desire to get this little problem of yours under control. I was once at the mercy of another force. The eternal hunger that plagues all hollows." She nodded to Ailene. She'd known that quite well; from what she'd been taught, all hollows had dealt with this problem, and most continued to up until they made the decision to break their mask; become an Arrancar. While she didn't know what this was like entirely, she was absolutely sympathetic in return. She'd known what Albin was like; what his... his influence had been starting to do to her. Part of her wondered if that was at all similar to to hell that Ailene had gone through in the past.

"You and I are quite alike. As a hollow, I became somewhat of a legend around my town more than 600 years ago. I have both the beauty of hindsight and bloodstained-memory to see it. A legend of a monster that resides in the woods. Would pluck children and parents alike from their homes. Those I cared for. Whose company I enjoyed. All betrayed. Slaughtered and devoured by my own hand. You on the other hand. You betrayed those closest to you I'm sure. In the Soul Society, you are assigned into Squads. I'm sure they are like family. How did they feel? I feel deep remorse over my actions. Do you?" 

Those words cut through the poor like a knife. She turned her eyes away, and gripped tightly at her knees, bunching up the black jeans she'd been wearing at the time. She couldn't even bring herself to look at Ailene as she felt her eyes begin to well. "I-" she started, followed by an immediate pause, "I can't say that I do, Ailene. I know I probably should, but truth of the matter is that, well, I simply don't. For what it's worth, I was a member of the thirteenth Squad. We were in charge of travel between the worlds, as well as across Soul Society under rare circumstances. I never really felt like our Squad was all that important; like, compared to the Defense Squad? How do we even compare?" Pausing for a moment once more, she gripped ever tighter at her jeans as her knuckles were starting to turn pale.

In her mind, she simply didn't compare to those in other Squads. She felt... worthless in Soul Society. Even her captain paid no attention to her, in the already short-staffed squad as it was. He'd always preached about family, but in turn, Soul Society is where she had felt the most alone. Well, that wasn't entirely true. She had one main friend during her time there, for what it was worth. That said, though, even thinking about her at the moment only made situations that much worse on her. How did she compare with that girl? Camila pulled her hands off of her jeans, and slammed her fist against the wall of Las Noches while letting out an agitated cry. It was enough to cause slight chipping, but not nearly anything significant.

"The fact of the matter is, Ailene, that I felt alone there. I felt like I was someone that everyone left in the shadows; even my own squad was quick to throw me under the bus when I'd returned through that Garganta you'd given me all that time ago." She began to mutter to herself. "All Ludwig did was talk about family. I thought he genuinely meant it. Even after we fought, it still doesn't fucking feel like it." Turning her attention back toward the Espada, she continued at the same tone she'd been speaking at before. "So, yeah. To answer your question, Ailene, I don't feel any remorse over my actions. Honestly? I feel liberated. I feel like I'm living for myself now. I feel like I can make my own decisions without someone breathing down my neck. I feel better about everything now than I ever have."

Standing up, she noticed Ailene had been fiddling with her blade. Camila, in turn decided to lean against hers that had been currently wedged into the sand. It wasn't the sturdiest, but it'd suffice for the time being. She'd need time to think. There was still so much she wanted to say, but this wasn't the time nor the place for any of it. She had a mission to get on with; that was her priority, first and foremost. "Everything aside, though, I need to talk with Kouhai when possible. I'd like to get this damned thing under control. From there, depending on how things go, and whether or not I'll be able to make a home here, I could be fighting alongside you for a while."

[Ailene Haschiro]

Watching the woman before her struggle to speak, Ailene felt a little bad in hindsight. Her question and comparison was more intended to probe. Analyze and determine whether Camila's desire to leave her life behind would be resolute. It needed to be. Ailene of course listened to her explanations, but there was only one aspect of it that she needed to hear. "I can't say that I do, Ailene." The Espada began to listen to her feelings of her own worth within the Soul Society. Admittedly, Ailene was once again surprised. As Camila compared herself to another Squad, Ailene silently chuckled to herself. Could this have been the only reason? No. There was no way. There had to be more.

Sure enough, Ailene's suspicions would be confirmed as it seemed that the rogue Shinigami before her had more to say. "The fact of the matter is, Ailene, that I felt alone there. I felt like I was someone that everyone left in the shadows; even my own squad was quick to throw me under the bus when I'd returned through that Garganta you'd given me all that time ago." Nodding to this specifically, it left Ailene with some things to think about. The Garganta that she had established to give Camila a way back into the Soul Society. Though Ailene could reason that this would have negative consequences for Camila. Or at least for her appearance when it came to her peers. 

"All Ludwig did was talk about family. I thought he genuinely meant it. Even after we fought, it still doesn't fucking feel like it." Ailene chuckled as she heard this. First, the idea of a Shinigami fighting another Shinigami seemed amusing. Not one she was unfamiliar with, however. The rankings of the Espada were able to be usurped by design. All the individual needed to do was prove that they were stronger than the predecessor. Typically this did involve combat. That name, however. Ludwig. It sounded so familiar. Skimming through her recent events, Ailene slowly began to remember a Shinigami Captain that she met in Karakura town.

He was rather easy going. When they met, he had little desire to fight her. Was this the same Ludwig that Camila was referring to. Questions for another time. For now, Camila was reinforcing her initial claim. "So, yeah. To answer your question, Ailene, I don't feel any remorse over my actions. Honestly? I feel liberated. I feel like I'm living for myself now. I feel like I can make my own decisions without someone breathing down my neck. I feel better about everything now than I ever have." A smile began to touch Ailene's lips. This Shinigami was rather interesting. Willing to cast everything that she once knew behind her. To throw her lot in with the enemy. Ailene had already made her decision on whether to help or not. Ultimately, it was not her place to guarantee Camila anything. That honor belonging to her Lord. The King of Hueco Mundo. 

"Everything aside, though, I need to talk with Kouhai when possible. I'd like to get this damned thing under control. From there, depending on how things go, and whether or not I'll be able to make a home here, I could be fighting alongside you for a while." Speaking of the devil. Even if Ailene did try to stop her, the Espada knew that Camila was stronger than her. At least while Ailene was sealed. Camila would most likely overpower her and try to make her way through the endless halls of Las Noches. Attempting to push through blockade after blockade until she either died trying or got to Lord Kouhai. Though not even Ailene could predict him. She did not dare. 

The Espada was left to sigh as she continued inspecting her Zanpakutou for a moment. As her gaze fell upon Camila, she spoke. "I see. You've given me quite a lot of reasoning." Ailene began to roll her wrist, bring her Zanpakutou next to her. "The regulations of Las Noches are clear. Trespassers are to be apprehended. Dealt with as we see fit. We, the Espada. Lord Kouhai's finest." Ailene began to raise her blade at Camila, pointing it at her, but not flaring her reiatsu or making any movement towards her. She would continue speaking. "We normally deal out a killing blow to those that will not turn back. Of course most Arrancar enjoy the prospect of fighting. And even more so killing a Shinigami. Former or not." 

If Camila did not speak or move, there would be long pause between the two of them. As Ailene's eyes focused upon the Shinigami, she would be the first to break the silence if Camila did not. "But lucky for you. I am not most Arrancar." As she punctuated her claim, Ailene slid her Zanpakutou back into its sheath as she dropped down, her bare feet touching the cool sand. Walking towards Camila, she would stop a few feet before her. "I will help you reach Lord Kouhai. While I can do that, I cannot do more past that. He is the King of Hueco Mundo and his word is law. He will deal with you as he sees fit. Either to help you...to harm you...or fulfill some other goal." 

This was something that Ailene needed to make clear. Sonken Kouhai was the type of person who was three moves or more ahead of everyone else. This made him dangerously unpredictable. Kouhai could prove to be her greatest ally, but yet her most feared adversary. Regardless, Ailene could see Lord Kouhai getting some use out of a Vizard. That being said, Ailene quickly turned around and slowly began to form a wide platform of reishi. Turning back to Camila, Ailene spoke with a firm tone. "Follow me. No fear. Treat it like a staircase." Ailene began to ascend the staircase of reishi that she was forming as she walked. She walked at a slow enough pace that Camila could follow her up to the spires of Las Noches so she could begin leading her to success or doom. 

[Deleted]

"The regulations of Las Noches are clear. Trespassers are to be apprehended. Dealt with as we see fit. We, the Espada. Lord Kouhai's finest." Hearing these words and seeing Ailene point a blade to her, Camila immediately decided to call the girl's bluff. She gave Ailene a smirk, as if to say "you can drop the act". It wouldn't take a Squad 12 scientist to figure out that this girl was heavily devoted to Kouhai; if she was serious about taking out Camila, then she would've done so while she had her by surprise. The Shinigami would be nothing more than a splatter against the otherwise white walls of the Espada's home. Still, though, she decided to play along and keep silent.

"We normally deal out a killing blow to those that will not turn back. Of course most Arrancar enjoy the prospect of fighting. And even more so killing a Shinigami. Former or not." Camila simply nodded at that point. After all, she was absolutely right. Her time spent in the Academy and dealing with two Espada in her life, she'd known that. Even if one of them was the same exception to the rule she'd encountered in the past. From what she could gather, the Ailene was not one to enjoy senseless combat. She liked to reason; to work things out. It was almost admirable, to a degree. To take the peaceful route to solve problems was something Camila wished she'd be able to do somewhere down the line. Unfortunately, she consistently seemed to let her temper get the better of her.

"But lucky for you. I am not most Arrancar." There it was. She fully expected some kind of comment like that, and to be frank it made her chuckle a little bit. She pulled her blade out of the ground, and placed it into her makeshift holster for the time being. Damn, she needed that scabbard back. Ah well, she'd worry about that a different time. "I will help you reach Lord Kouhai. While I can do that, I cannot do more past that. He is the King of Hueco Mundo and his word is law. He will deal with you as he sees fit. Either to help you...to harm you...or fulfill some other goal." Camila nodded again. "Thank you, Ailene. The help really means a lot."

Seeing Ailene form the platforms she did underneath her feet, She took a deep breath. Stepping on the platform, Camila slowly began to follow her way up behind Ailene. This was... weird. Not something she thought she'd experience in Hueco Mundo of all places. She needed to learn whatever it was that was allowing Ailene to do this. Perhaps sometime down the line that wouldn't be a bad idea. For now though, she had questions that she needed to ask while they were on their way up. "So," Cami started, "figured it's best to get this out of the way now; what do I need to look out for when speaking with Kouhai? Like, should I bow? How should I address him? I'm kind of trying... not to die here." With that, she chuckled.

Looking out to the expansive desert around them, Camila stared in awe. Truth be told, the deserts of Hueco Mundo were actually quite beautiful. Sure, they were somewhat barren with hollows scattered around, but she felt like it gave the area around life. "Damn," she said, "that's quite a sight, huh? Gotta say, I do rather enjoy the view from up here. Certainly something to behold." She turned back to Ailene, and focused on her steps. "So how long have you been residing here? Like, as an Espada I mean. How long did it take you to get to where you are now? I'm super curious to hear, if you wouldn't mind sharing that with me."

[Ailene Haschiro]

As Ailene began to generate the platforms, she looked behind her for a moment. She needed to see if Camila was able to keep up. The Shinigami was still on the ground, presumably looking upon the platforms made of dense Hollow reishi. The Espada noticed the apprehension. The uncertainty. This made Ailene chuckle somewhat as she waited for a moment for Camila to catch up. She was amused by Camila's caution. It was as if she was not used to the idea of leaving the ground in Hueco Mundo. Then again, Ailene knew a good bit about the spirit particles that surrounded them. The Human World made it simple move through. An attempt like this in Hueco Mundo the uninitiated, it may feel like treading through mud. 

Regardless, Ailene began to continue upward. If Camila watched Ailene's movements, she may notice that Ailene was very practiced. Nimble and elegant, she walked through the air with grace. As they continue upward, Ailene began to take note of Camila's words. "So, figured it's best to get this out of the way now; what do I need to look out for when speaking with Kouhai? Like, should I bow? How should I address him? I'm kind of trying... not to die here." The Espada could not help, but chuckle somewhat. She began to ponder somewhat as they continued upward the spiritual staircase. When Ailene spoke, her voice would be rather peaceful. At ease.

"Now now. Where's the fun in revealing that? You could consider this part of the test. A test of will and resolve. I like little puzzles like this. Promotes critical thinking." After a few more steps, Ailene turned to face Camila as her expression darkened somewhat. Her voice also became more firm though it was still eerily calm. "Make no mistake Camila. As it stands currently, I am not your ally nor am I your enemy. I am here to lead the way and guide you to Lord Kouhai. That being said..." Ailene looked up, pondering somewhat before returning her gaze upon Camila. "There are those among us who do not hold him in the same light as I do. I dare say that most despise him. Yet despite that, why do they follow?" 

Turning around, Ailene continued upward, allowing Camila a moment to ponder. Depending on what Camila answered, the Espada would either confirm or deny the claim. "It is quite simple. Power. Strength. Domination. These are all virtues that the Espada follow like tenets. Simply put, Lord Kouhai is a calamity personified into flesh. This is why we follow him. There is one among us who is rather vulgar. I presume Lord Kouhai tolerates him for his unmatched physical abilities and violent nature. Though I repeat. Tolerates." This was a hint to Camila that she could most likely act as she wished though she needed to proceed carefully according to Ailene. 

Once again, Ailene overheard her Shinigami companion as she gazed upon the extensive White Desert. "That's quite a sight, huh? Gotta say, I do rather enjoy the view from up here. Certainly something to behold." Ailene did not respond. She knew the White Desert well. After all, she had been an Arrancar for centuries. After some time, especially for her type of character, it lost its charm. A barren wasteland that exemplified Hollow nature. Kill or be killed. Devour and live or remain stagnant and die. Memories that despite being fragmented still provided Ailene with some unease. After all, as she mentioned to Camila, she betrayed those she cared for. Devoured them whole and razed the village she and her family grew up in.

Nearing the spire, Ailene began to listen to yet another question that Camila had posed her. "So how long have you been residing here? Like, as an Espada I mean. How long did it take you to get to where you are now? I'm super curious to hear, if you wouldn't mind sharing that with me." Raising her hand from her side, Ailene began to tap her chin inquisitively. "Well. If memory serves me correctly, I took up my position within the Espada perhaps...two. Three centuries ago. I've been an Arrancar for even longer than that. It's all rather blurry. I have to admit." Ailene was of course referring to her memory loss. She knew vague timelines, but not the details. To Camila, two or three centuries may have seemed like a lot. To Ailene, this time was over in the blink of an eye. 

Resuming after her pause and reaching the spire, Ailene created the last spiritual platform. If Camila was in tow, she would have more than enough time before the reishi dispersed. Turning to Camila, Ailene spoke once again in a firm tone. "Welcome to Las Noches. Composed of winding halls that stretch for miles. Stay close and follow me lest you become lost in the twisting corridors." Descending down the stairs of the spire, Ailene began to lead the way. Walking through similar looking hall after hall, it would soon become clear that Las Noches was a maze that ensnared those who did not know its corridors well. Ailene of course, had two or more centuries to learn certain paths. 

---

-- Two Hours Later --

After some time, Ailene and Camila if she stayed close would see a rather large and impressive door. Ailene spoke rather clearly. "We have arrived. The throne room of Las Noches." The Espada breathed out calmly as she was mentally preparing herself. Normally, Lord Kouhai tended to summon her when needed. In this case, she would be intruding. Thanks to her calm spirit, she was able to hide it quite well. Though within the depths of her soul, Ailene felt an apprehension unlike any other. The doors to the throne room appeared to be open. One last breath. One of courage and Ailene was beginning to tread upon the inner sanctum of the King of Hueco Mundo. 

Walking towards the middle of the room, Ailene spoke with confidence and respect. "Lord Kouhai. I apologize for seeking you out without summons, but it seems that Las Noches has a guest with an interesting proposal. She is a rogue Shinigami, formerly of the Soul Society. She also...harbors something much more sinister." As Ailene finished speaking, she breathed a sigh of relief. Continuing to stand there, Ailene awaited some form of approval from her lord. At this point, Camila's fate was in Sonken Kouhai's hands and there was little that Ailene could do to aid the Shinigami. She was on her own. Only time would tell if she would leave these halls dead or alive.

[Shizuka Sanamizu ✮]

Ah, yes... How long had it been since anyone else stepped foot in the throne room? Ages, perhaps? At a minimum, several years. No one had the audacity. The privacy was appreciated, but apparently, that appreciation was not shared by all who dwelled within his kingdom. There were people around who did not respect the King enough to understand when he wished to not be disturbed, and this sense of displeasure resonated throughout the walls. Anyone within at least a mile would be able to feel this growing viciousness.

Kouhai sat upon his large, entirely-too-fancy throne as he watched the two women approach him. Externally, they would not realize he was fuming from deep within. He did not appreciate visitors, and especially did not want such weak beings within his place of dwelling. It both fascinated and disgusted him. It took every inch of his very being to not roll his eyes, and as one of his own Espada spoke to him, without permission, he simply remained quiet. He was not going to interrupt. He would not speak a word until she finished.

"Lord Kouhai. I apologize for seeking you out without summons, but it seems that Las Noches has a guest with an interesting proposal. She is a rogue Shinigami, formerly of the Soul Society. She also...harbors something much more sinister."

Only a moment passed between Ailene's last word and the laugh that escaped Kouhai's lips. He brushed his hair back, causing his white suit to move along with his raised arm, exposing his bare chest. He stood, adjusting the blazer back to its rightful, more flattering position, and slowly stepped down the stairs to the two women. He reached out, resting his index finger against the bottom of her chin, then looked deeply into her eyes as he waited and analyzed her.

"Oh, Ailene... You seemed to have forgotten your manners. You are supposed to bow to me when in my presence." Kouhai's ice blue eyes met with hers. He did not blink. He did not show any emotion. "How are you ever going to teach your friend here the correct way to address me when even you do so incorrectly? You are one of my elite. Respect your King."

Dismissing Ailene, Kouhai approached the other woman. He stood before her, a good bit taller than she was, and looked down upon her. He sized her up, questioning her powers and motives. She was not one of them, but neither was he. All Kouhai did was blink, his face void of any reaction to her existence. It made him think for a moment, though, that perhaps she was like him. She also betrayed the Gotei 13 just as he had all those years ago. For one of the first times since he could remember, he smiled a genuine smile.

"Girl, tell me your name and speak your story. I will not hear it secondhand. You must say it to me yourself if you wish for me to view you as highly as I do my Espada."

[Deleted]

The very moment she set foot inside of the throne room, Camila felt off. She could tell immediately that this man gave off much more of an intimidating aura than anyone she'd likely ever encounter; including her own inner hollow. Something about this man horrified her, and yet she also found herself fascinated. She couldn't help but remain drawn to him like a moth to a flame. As Ailene spoke, she dared not turn her attention away from the man sitting on the throne. She was not about to put herself into jeopardy just for taking her own attention off of the man; if what Ailene had said was correct, this man could've likely killed her just from a simple glance. She wasn't going to take that risk.

"Oh, Ailene... You seemed to have forgotten your manners."

His words alone sent a shiver down her spine. To say she was utterly intimidated was an understatement, but she forced herself to hold strong; her pure strength of will doing what was possible to carry her through this encounter alone. She'd known she'd need it, but gods, this wasn't going to be easy. Upon Kouhai's mention of Ailene showing him respect, she immediately held one hand over her chest as a sort of pseudo-salute. She was going to do absolutely everything she could in order to try to harbor this man's respect, and she'd show that. Giving him a smile the entire time, both absolutely riddled with excitement and anxiety, Camila stood as Kouhai stepped up and approached her.

"Girl, tell me your name and speak your story. I will not hear it secondhand. You must say it to me yourself if you wish for me to view you as highly as I do my Espada."

With this, Camila simply nodded and held the salute, maintaining a respectful amount of eye contact with the man. "Yes sir. My name is Camila Adaronde, and as Ailene had stated, I was once a member of the Gotei 13. My time was originally spent within their ranks, and from the very beginning it was atrocious. I hold something within me that makes me exceptionally different than that of an average Shinigami; I harbor an inner hollow. Due to this, and the inability to keep my own reiatsu under control, I was heavily scrutinized, humiliated, berated, you name it since the beginning within Seireitei. Very few have treated me with the respect that a basic human being deserves, despite outclassing quite a noteworthy amount in terms of combative potential."

"Over time, this scrutiny quickly worsened, and I was almost subject to execution simply due to me being who I am. I exiled myself and abandoned Soul Society from there, not wanting to put up with any of the garbage that I'd been forced to endure for almost a century. Taking into account what I'd heard about you, Sir, both from Soul Society and through word of mouth, I considered heading here. I was quickly sold on the possibility of serving underneath you; either by your side, or even as one of your Espada. I'm certain that even now I have the potential to do so in terms of raw combative ability, having held my own not only against numerous Espada that either currently serve under you or have in the past, but also from holding my own against one of Soul Society's strongest Captains."

"Though, while certainly the largest goal here, obtaining a position in your own forces isn't the only reason why I'm here. Out of anyone I could've sought out, I've considered that you're the best choice in terms of providing at least a semblance of guidance on what to do regarding my inner hollow. I wish to subjugate him; make him bend to my own will, and use his power to further my own goals; your own goals. If possible, I'd like to use that power to force all of Soul Society to suffer the same humiliation that I'd been forced to go through; I'd like to tear the organization apart at the very seams. Should you be willing to take me on as an Espada or perhaps even by your side, I promise you that I will not disappoint."

[Ailene Haschiro]

It was time. Ailene was face to face with her Lord. Even though the Espada did not want to admit, she was beyond nervous. It had been ages since the King of Las Noches. Nay. Of Hueco Mundo itself was visited by an Espada, let alone an uninvited guest. As her Lord stood after she finished introducing Camila, Ailene noticed that as per usual he was dressed to the nines. Then again, that was befitting his status. He was a King after all and Ailene always assumed that he wished to look the part. Not that he needed to. His aura was crushing. His power was evident. He did not need to present himself as dominant. As he began making his way towards the two of them, Ailene felt completely different. 

Ailene was not usually the type of person to feel perturbed. She had amassed incredible mental fortitude to anxieties. Even to some fears. She still felt them, but was very resilient. Almost stoic when it came to those certain emotions. For all these decades of experience, Ailene felt far more susceptible with Kouhai. As his cold, analytical eyes met Ailene's, it took everything that she had to not close her eyes and express the fear that she felt in her soul. To close her eyes to her Lord, however? That would be the greatest display of disrespect, at least in Ailene's eyes. Even as an Espada, Ailene was susceptible to criticism. A criticsm from Kouhai? That would feel like a curse to her.

Finally after what felt like an eternity, the King of Las Noches spoke. "Oh, Ailene... You seemed to have forgotten your manners. You are supposed to bow to me when in my presence." Ailene was immediately taken aback. Immediately she recognized just how careless it was. Then again, it had been years since she last spoke with her Lord. She kept meeting his eyes. She did not let them fall for even a second. He then continued without a semblance of emotion. "How are you ever going to teach your friend here the correct way to address me when even you do so incorrectly? You are one of my elite. Respect your King." For a moment, Ailene felt her entire body shake. Not enough to be distinctly noticeable, but she felt a chill. As if her soul itself froze over.

She dared not disrespect him anymore than she already had. With an immediate motion, Ailene dropped to one knee. Despite the length of her existence, Ailene was still very archaic in some of her mannerisms. To her, the ultimate display of respect and submission was kneeling. It was how the Knights of old addressed their Kings. To add an extra hint of respect, Ailene lowered her head so she was subverting her gaze from her Lord. Her heart was pounding out of her chest. A light shiver touched her form as she silently prayed for any manner of mercy from her Lord. She was an Espada. She was of some value to him. Even if it was for his own purposes. Ailene understood this and she accepted it. She could not hold a candle to him. Her only alternative was to show her respect.

Her tone as she spoke was as soothing as it normally was though if Camila listened closely, she may have heard a hint of disturbance in her voice. She spoke loud enough for Lord Kouhai to hear her, but not so loud as to appear to be overbearing. "Of course Lord Kouhai. I give you my deepest apologies. As one of your Espada, your elite, I should have known better. Please accept this display of my respect for you as proof of my allegiance and respect for the King of Hueco Mundo." As she finished, Ailene let out a silent sigh. She was hoping it would suffice. That it would exceed Kouhai's expectations for the respect she felt for him. Did she love him as a leader? No. Did she fear him? Yes. That fear in turn bred respect. 

As her Lord turned to address Camila, Ailene simply maintained her kneeling position. Her gaze was still subverted. She not raise them to meet her Kings' eyes. Not until he allowed her to. At least not in his very presence. Ailene was a kind soul and could be very snarky to others. To Lord Kouhai, however, all that snark faded. Ailene did not desire death and she knew that her Lord could swiftly deal it out if he so desired. She would not rise either. Her place for now was that of an underling seeking her Lords' forgiveness. Ailene was certainly hoping that he was not in a bad mood. As her Lord spoke and Camila responded, Ailene took note of all she said, hoping that Camila would not be at his mercy either. She knew better though. They were all at his mercy. 

[Shizuka Sanamizu ✮]

How interesting. A girl like Camila dared step foot inside his throne room, his den, as he was the king of predators. A true apex beast. Kouhai mused for a moment at how it may feel to truly put her in her place, crush her skull beneath his foot, but he pulled himself back from that thought with the strongest mental rope he could muster. There was no use in wasting energy on someone such as Camila, or at least not at this moment. The man stared blankly at her, listening to her words as she spoke.

Something made Kouhai's ears twitch with anticipation rather early in Camila's speech. An inner Hollow, huh? Now, this was fascinating. How did he ever come into contact with a Vizard Hopeful? He only knew of one, perhaps two at most. These creatures were uncommon and Kouhai knew of the amount of strength it took to successfully become a Vizard. He blinked for a moment, then smiled. It was not a cold expression, nor was it a false one. He was truly smiling. Camila finished her tale, mentioning wishing to become one of his Espada or perhaps another member of his ranks, and the man chuckled.

"You wish to become one of my Espada, child? You? I sense a small amount of dense air within your skull," Kouhai jabbed. His ice-blue eyes met with Camila's own as he lifted his hand, placing it surprisingly gently upon her chin, then rather uncarefully jerked her head to either side. It was as if he were inspecting a doll for imperfections. "or perhaps it is something more like... misplaced determination."

She was a quaint young girl. Kouhai was impressed, all things considered. She had endured so much and yet made a name for herself, learning to come to terms with having an inner Hollow, and possibly even overcoming it one day. Unfortunately, things would not go as well as she would have likely hoped. He was a proud man. His Espada were strong and those he kept close to himself were even more so. Other faction leaders would laugh at the fact that he had accepted this lost puppy as a pet of his own. His eyes darted between Camila and Ailene.

"You both have resolve. This interests me. I can sense the fear inside of you, Ailene, and that is enough to remind myself that I am doing what I must as your King. Take Camila." Kouhai, still gripping Camila's chin, shoved her into Ailene and waved the two of them off. "I have no patience for a half-breed. Either become a full Vizard or you are of no use to me."

Kouhai was known for being a bit of a brute. As he strode back up the stairs to his throne, silently excited at the thought of being able to sit back down but not daring himself to expose that thought upon his face, he wondered how daring these two women would actually be. He was not the type who was easily persuaded by sob stories. His heart had frozen over long ago. But there was something in him, perhaps a remnant of who he was in his younger years, that continued to question how willing people were to give up so easily. At least if they turned around now, he wouldn't waste any more of his time.

[Deleted]

Throughout the entire encounter thus far, Camila had been scared. To be meeting with a man like Kouhai was something nerve wracking, to simply say the least. She could infer just what this man was capable of. This made itself ever apparent as he placed his hand underneath her chin, and spoke the words he'd chosen for the moment. "You wish to become one of my Espada, child? You? I sense a small amount of dense air within your skull, or perhaps it is something more like... misplaced determination." What? Just what did he mean by that? Misplaced determination? Hopefully he was going to speak on the matter.

Unfortunately so, Camila seemed to get her wish. "You both have resolve. This interests me. I can sense the fear inside of you, Ailene, and that is enough to remind myself that I am doing what I must as your King. Take Camila." As he spoke, she was quickly caught off-guard by the fact that she was shoved away from him, and pushed back into her friend. "I have no patience for a half-breed. Either become a full Vizard or you are of no use to me." Those words felt like knives. Clenching her fists Camila did what she could to rebound off of Ailene as easily as she could force herself to do, and stood back up tall.

She knew wholeheartedly that she should've bitten her tongue. Standing not ten feet away from the man whose name likely rang through the three worlds as one of the strongest, and quite likely the most feared man alive, Camila knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that speaking out was perhaps the most dangerous thing she could've ever hoped to do. Though, putting herself in danger was by far something she'd grown accustomed to doing; what was one more situation? It seemed as though her pride and hotheadedness were going to prevent her from standing down this time.

"...What?" she asked, as the King began to walk away from her, "that's it? That's fucking it?" Letting a beat pass to allow for attention to be directed toward her, Camila felt her entire body tense up. "I have given up everything in order to make this decision. Any potential future I had with quite literally any other group, any place to call home, or anything of the like have been since reduced to fucking nothing. And for you to outright just tell me 'no' just like that? Need I say that even as-is, I can hold my own against any of your Espada? Any of your so-called 'chosen'? I'm sorry to say, but I am not turning away from this. I'm not being left for dead again."

Taking a few steps forward toward Kouhai, Camila continued. "If you've a problem with where I am regarding this fucking parasite inside of me, then direct me. I'm sure you've seen a plentiful amount of those like me. If you've an issue with the fact that I'm still a 'half-breed' as you put it, then give me a damn solution! Stop taking the coward's way out and give me a fucking purpose!" As she continued to shout, the last few words she spoke seemed to force her voice to crack ever so slightly. Her eyes were moments away from watering. "I am not going to sit idly by while I'm thrown to the wolves. I've given too much over this last fucking year to allow that to happen."

[Shizuka Sanamizu ✮]

Talked to Layla and Juli -- we're going to end this one due to Cami's death in another thread and turn it in.

[Kyomei Kuchiki]

+40% social boost for Ailene and Cami (Albin)
+10% social boost for any of Sana's characters and Ailene/Cami (Albin)