A Hopeless Induction [JT]

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Strolling through the halls as their favorite Privaron Espada, "Maximiliano" made rather good pace throughout the many floors of Las Noches, in search of someone in particular. A very specific Arrancar that they'd been tasked by Kouhai to meet with; Ailene Haschiro. They'd known very little about the Espada as a whole, having not taken the time to affiliate themselves with Kouhai's other army, but ultimately they couldn't escape that from happening. Where it stood they still respected Kouhai to a fault, and were more than willing to go along with whatever "orders" they were given by the man. They didn't usually answer to anyone, but Kouhai was different.

Leaning up against the walls where they could in order to make sure they stood upright as they walked, Maxi continued to press on with a slight limp in their step. Damn, they thought to themselves, I'm still not used to this body yet? In truth, it usually took quite some time before they had been able to really "break in" one of their bodies. It was a rather unenjoyable experience, trying to get used to assuming a different form like that. The body they'd been using for decades now had only been as comfortable as it was because of that fact; they'd been hiding in that shape for literal decades. This one, though, they'd only just acquired within the last few days. Naturally, it was going to take a bit of time.

That said, they weren't going to let some stiff form stop them from reaching their goal. Ailene likely wasn't too far away from where they were, and hopefully it wasn't going to be too difficult getting to the Espada chambers in order to finally get this mission under way. Thinking back to what Kouhai had said to them, they simply smiled. All they'd been instructed to do was to help make combat "come a bit easier" for the girl. Naturally they weren't going to force a fight on the poor girl, especially after hearing from Kouhai that she was relatively non-combative as it was. In truth, he rather liked that idea; someone to finally discuss matters of the world with.

Continuing to think on the topic as they made their way to the Septima's personal quarters, they began to formulate a decision on their own; They'd pose the option to the girl. If she wanted to speak through actions against one another, then so be it. However, if she wanted to just sit down, have a cup of tea, and sharpen each others' minds, then Kouhai wasn't going to hear a word otherwise. Ultimately, they were quite excited to meet her. Knocking on the wall by her quarters, Maxi began to shout. "Miss Ailene? I'm a messenger from Lord Kouhai; He wanted me to assist you in improving yourself. May I enter?" They weren't just going to barge in; that would've been extremely rude.

[Ailene Haschiro]

The room was silent. Books lay in a neat orderly fashion upon countless shelfs. Beside it, scrolls were wrapped tightly and bound while being kept in in stacks. Overall, the room looked orderly and clean to a fault. The air suddenly began to change as in the middle of the room, a Garganta opened up. As it slowly began to cave in, the mouth of the portal roared open to reveal the blackened void. Out of the gate stepped a rather familiar face. It was Ailene returning from a venture into the Human World. With it, she had brought a number of books and scrolls. Some she chose to carry while others, namely books, were kept in her the satchel that she wore around her waist.

Sighing briefly, the woman looked around. Everything was just as she had left it. She smiled briefly. Slowly treading across the room, she began to store the scrolls and books she had gathered from the Human World. It included literature from all manner of disciplines. Philosophy, Medicine, works of Fiction and so on. As she finished storing all of her literature, Ailene sighed for a moment. She had spent the better part of the day doing this and as such was reasonably exhausted. Closing her eyes, she began to sink into her seat. As she did this, she began to fall into a somewhat deeper sleep. This is what she was looking forward to. Having a chance to rest.

It was then that she suddenly heard a pounding on the door. There was also a shout accompanying it. Ripping Ailene from her sleep, she sighed. "Miss Ailene? I'm a messenger from Lord Kouhai; He wanted me to assist you in improving yourself. May I enter?" Rubbing her eyes gently, she groaned in annoyance, only audible to her. Under her breath she began to mutter. "No rest for the wicked it seems. Though damn it, why now..." Rising to her feet, Ailene slowly began to move to the door. With a lethargic movement, she in an equally slow manner, opened the door as she instinctively yawned. Looking upon the Akki who was wearing a skin unbeknownst to Ailene.

As her eye fell upon Orobas, she paused for a moment. She could not put her finger on it, but something seemed off about his skin. Almost as if something had tried to jam its way forcefully into it. Ailene shook her head and passed it off as her fatigue playing tricks on her. Internally, Ailene was almost ready to snap on the Privaron Espada for disturbing her. The more rational part of her decided that civility would be better for this situation. Stepping to the side, Ailene offered them access to her room. Assuming that Orobas entered, Ailene would close the door slowly and grab an extra seat from the corner. She kept these around in case she ever had company.

Grabbing it and lugging it over to where her seat was, Ailene set it down and smiled at Orobas. She spoke with the gentle tone she was known for. "Well. Do sit down. I was about to make myself some tea. Can I interest you in any?" Ailene swiftly began to move over to her counter. Even if Orobas declined, Ailene would make two cups anyway. In case they were still persistent, the Espada would have two cups to enjoy. Preparing two cups and opening two shelves along her waist, Ailene pulled out two tea bags along with an assortment of herbs. Understanding the human body better than most, Ailene knew a good deal about herbal remedies. 

This is when she also pulled out one of the lovely inventions she had purchased from the Human World. It was an electric water kettle. Sure, she had to go the Human World to recharge it every now and then, but its uses proved invaluable to Ailene. Pouring some water that she had en masse into the kettle, turned it on as it slowly cooked to a hot temperature. Until this was finished, Ailene slowly placed the tea bags along with a bit of lavender into each cup. As the kettle jumped with a tiny DING, Ailene filled the each cup with an appropriate amount of water. Finally waiting about three to five minutes for the tea bags to settle, the Esapda took a spoon and threw both tea bags into the trash. Finally, swirling the water in each one, the two cups of tea were ready.

This process would have taken about ten minutes giving Orobas ample opportunity to have a look around the room. Of course, if he chose to look upon any of the scrolls or literature that were in plain view. As she was still finished the tea, she spoke. "This may take another minute. I have plenty of reading material if that tickles your fancy. Unfortunately, the way I know most Arrancar, reading is not the first thing on our mind. I pride myself on that distinction. Though please, if you do take interest, don't be like the last person and disrespect the book. By that I mean, don't damage the book nor misplace it. Once you're done, place it back where you found it. Categorized by Alphabetical order of Author and by theme." 

Her words would certainly give her the distinction of a scholar. Someone who genuinely enjoyed academics. Regardless, once finished, Ailene would bring the cups of tea to the seats. Prompting Orobas to sit, she would give them a cup of Jasmine Tea. Meanwhile, Ailene would drink her personal favorite. A cup of Pomegranate Tea. As the fragrance of the charred lavender met Ailene, she smiled warmly as she had a sip of the tea. Immediately, she felt far better. Less cranky. More alert. As she relaxed into her chair, she looked at Orobas. "So you mentioned Lord Kouhai. Something about improving myself? I am curious as to what brought this one, but I am not one to question the Lords' wishes. Though, I have to ask. Who are you? Forgive my own manners. I am Ailene. Ailene Haschiro. Septima Espada."  

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Seeing Ailene open the door, Maxi flashed her their best smile possible; one that went on to show nothing but respect for the girl, if a smile were able to convey so. The goal here was to set a good first impression, and to avoid any amount of distaste for them. If all was going to go according to plan, they needed the Arrancar on their side in order to begin the first phase of their upcoming plans. If all went well, hopefully they'd have an ally with the girl against Soul Society? If not it was no concern to them, other allies waited down the line, but someone like the Septima Espada was certainly an asset they didn't exactly want to pass up.

Following the girl and entering her chambers, Maxi stared in awe the moment they got a good look at Ailene's rather immense collection of literature. As someone who loved to be able to crack open a good book during their free time, Maxi found themselves on a little piece of heaven, ironically enough. Though, they were quickly brought back to reality upon hearing the girl's words once more. "I was about to make myself some tea. Can I interest you in any?" With that, Maxi gave the girl a gentle smile and a slight nod of their head. "Oh, I'd love that Miss Ailene, I'm very appreciative of the offer!" From there, the "Arrancar" followed as directed and took a seat as they watched the girl.

Noticing she had actually acquired what seemed to be an automatic kettle, Maxi watched in surprise. Wasn't Las Noches without any real power when it came to what the Arrancar were provided with? They'd known that certain rooms had access to those kinds of things, but was Ailene one of those exceptions? That only made their being here that much more interesting for the Envainar. They'd have to ask about that later, but for now, they were here on what was effectively business for the time. As they continued to ponder on their own thoughts on the situation, letting minutes pass, they were eventually greeted by an invitation from the girl to check out her rather impressive collection.

Hearing the girl's request, Maxi simply chuckled to themselves. "You won't need to worry in the slightest," they started, carefully standing up and slowly making their way over to the bookshelves as to not stumble over anything, "I wouldn't dream of damaging anything here. I promise you I'm not like most others; much like yourself, I hold myself to a much higher amount of respect. I don't like to consider myself to be on the same level as those brainless heathens." Once again chuckling, Maxi felt their hand gently across the spines of the books that had been set out, in order to determine where certain books were until they recognized a title.

Gently pulling a book off of the shelf, Maxi once again moved back to where they were sitting down and opened to the first page. "Oh, please do forgive any klutzy behavior I might show over the course of our meeting here, I'd hate to use this as an excuse, but I do suffer from a complete lack of vision at all. I'm sure you understand the struggles behind that." Once again chuckling as they ran their hand gently across the page waiting for the girl to sit down across from them, Maxi began to envelop themselves with with a classic; The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien. After a  few short moments, upon Ailene sitting down across from them and offering Maxi the cup, they gently closed the book, and set it down beside them.

"So you mentioned Lord Kouhai. Something about improving myself? I am curious as to what brought this one, but I am not one to question the Lords' wishes. Though, I have to ask. Who are you? Forgive my own manners. I am Ailene. Ailene Haschiro. Septima Espada." With the girl finishing up her words, Maxi simply chuckled. "Oh, there's no reason to introduce yourself, dear. I know quite well who you are! How could anyone not know about our very own Septima Espada? As for who I am, I've gone by many names over the years, but at the moment, I'm most comfortably referred to as Maximiliano Rascon, Privaron Espada 108." They didn't want to reveal too much information for the time being, but hopefully there would be a time in the future to make that decision.

"As far as why I'm here, though, you're very correct! Lord Kouhai has requested that I meet with you in order to get a number of things done; those things being something under your discretion, of course. You are my superior in this situation. Lord Kouhai had spoken about preferring it to be something combat-oriented, as both of us are... well, let's just say not the most comfortable to fight. That said, though, this was only a suggestion; should you desire something else, such as sharpening our minds, this is also quite acceptable. Lord Kouhai and I get along quite well, so please don't worry; should you desire something that doesn't quite align with how you feel his interests lie, I can promise you with full certainty that everything will blow over perfectly okay."

[Ailene Haschiro]

As the Espada sit down to enjoy her cup of tea, with the guest, she took a moment to ponder on the Arrancar's initial claim. Sent by Kouhai to help Ailene better herself. At a first glance, it made sense. After all, Ailene was a fairly passive and noncombative individual. A diplomat at heart, she preferred the art of negotiation and diplomacy. Though while diplomacy was in its on way a beautiful and sophisticated language, it could also be filled with lies, treachery and deceit. While Ailene was not the kind to take to those ghastly aspects, she was very aware that some had learned to mistrust the language of diplomacy. Regardless, Ailene did have another side to her that she did her best to keep under lock and key. 

As her eyes focused upon Maxi, she smiled as she heard the Arrancar before her speak. "Oh, please do forgive any klutzy behavior I might show over the course of our meeting here, I'd hate to use this as an excuse, but I do suffer from a complete lack of vision at all. I'm sure you understand the struggles behind that." This claim was once again, interesting to Ailene. For one, the Arrancar before her picked up a book. This was not what made her a tad bit questioning, however. Claiming to be blind yet also cracking open the book. These books were from the Human World and as such had little spiritual ties to them. Unless this Arrancar could somehow read despite being blind, Ailene was a bit amused by it. 

Regardless, the Espada spoke in her well-known soothing voice. "Well. You certainly will not receive any raised eyebrows from me. While I thankfully do not suffer blindness, I can sympathize with the consequences of that blindness. Though. I assume it is klutzy behavior to attempt to read despite being blind?" Taking a sip of her tea, she would immediately jump on the topic after reflection. "Do forgive my wording. I do not mean to belittle your condition. I am just surprised is all. I would certainly be curious about what brought about this blindness? It must be agonizing to not enjoy visual pleasures. Such as that book you chose." 

Ailene immediately recognized for what it was. "The Hobbit if I am not mistaken. Lovely choice. I am happy to see that the people of Hueco Mundo are not bereft of simpler pleasures. Such as the intrigue a book can provide." Ailene could speak about her enjoyment of books for hours if she truly wanted to, but clearly this is not why Maxi was here. At least, the prime directive of this meeting. Once again, she'd patiently listen to her guest. "Oh, there's no reason to introduce yourself, dear. I know quite well who you are! How could anyone not know about our very own Septima Espada? As for who I am, I've gone by many names over the years, but at the moment, I'm most comfortably referred to as Maximiliano Rascon, Privaron Espada 108."

The Espada chuckled. Flattery. She was amused by the prospect of it. This Maxi certainly had manners. Ailene certainly liked this. It was a nice detour from some of the other individuals in Hueco Mundo, namely a certain Espada by the name of Rio. Ailene recognized his position above her along with his strength. Unfortunately he lacked civility. Vulgarities were quite common for him. It was something that Ailene disliked very much. It's why she rarely tolerated him more than was necessary. She was not so full of herself as to try and dethrone him and strip him of his title of Quinta Espada. But her distaste of his personality was not necessarily a secret.

Ailene would take the time to speak. "Oh. I'm not surprised that you know of me. Though you give me far too much credit and undeserved fame. Also as per your earlier greeting, just Ailene will do. I may be the Septima Espada, though that does not make me special." Ailene was unnaturally modest for an Arrancar. As long as it wasn't necessary to utilize her rank, she often affiliated herself with what most considered to be her lessers. Ailene recognized that a stable base of allies could certainly be of use. Regardless, then continued to react to Orobas' reveal. "Maximiliano huh? Quite a peculiar name. Then again. Ailene is not a rather common name either." Ailene smiled briefly.

She would then continue, taking into account Orobas designation even if it was fake. Ailene had no way of knowing this. "Privaron Espada hun? If I recall correctly that would make you a former Espada fallen from grace. For a number of reasons you have been displaced. Perhaps someone stronger? Found of little use by Lord Kouhai?" Ailene's eyes narrowed as she peered at Maxi. Overly analytical and perceptive, she liked to get to the bottom of others' life's. To try and discover what brought to them where they were. Of course, Ailene was not attempting to be condescending or rude. After all, a few short moments ago she provided evidence of her humility. 

"As far as why I'm here, though, you're very correct! Lord Kouhai has requested that I meet with you in order to get a number of things done; those things being something under your discretion, of course. You are my superior in this situation. Lord Kouhai had spoken about preferring it to be something combat-oriented, as both of us are... well, let's just say not the most comfortable to fight. That said, though, this was only a suggestion; should you desire something else, such as sharpening our minds, this is also quite acceptable. Lord Kouhai and I get along quite well, so please don't worry; should you desire something that doesn't quite align with how you feel his interests lie, I can promise you with full certainty that everything will blow over perfectly okay."

Still the ever perceptive and patient individual, Ailene listened to Maxi continue on the details of why she was here. Ailene chuckled silently and smirked as her eyes were falling to look at her cup. Slowly taking a spoon, she began to stir it for a moment before taking another sip. Closing her eyes and letting the warmth of it run down her throat, she sighed briefly. "Trying to get me comfortable to fight..." Looking upward for a moment, the Espada pondered for what seemed like five or so seconds. As her eyes fell upon Maxi once more, she spoke. "I'm not entirely surprised this has developed. After all, as your information correctly surmises, I am not much of a fighter." 

Among all that Maxi had revealed, there was one aspect of this that really had her suspicious. She was claiming to be Privaron Esapda 108. This was fine. Ailene could believe this. Yet she also claimed that she got along with Kouhai. That implied some degree of understanding between the two. Ailene did not dare to claim that she knew Kouhai and his inner thoughts, but this was becoming interesting. Ailene would keep it in the back of her head and wouldn't press an interrogation. If Orobas took the time to get a feeling from an Ailene by sensing her energy, he would most likely find a rather sub-par fighter. She herself gave off a rather calming yet Hollow-like reiatsu. "Well, sharpening minds does sound very attractive, but I suppose we have little to gain from that for the purposes of combat. I would not be opposed to either necessarily. Especially if Lord Kouhai mandated it. After all, I do serve him first and foremost."  

[Deleted]

"Well. You certainly will not receive any raised eyebrows from me. While I thankfully do not suffer blindness, I can sympathize with the consequences of that blindness. Though. I assume it is klutzy behavior to attempt to read despite being blind?" Maxi naturally chuckled at this comment. "Well, when you live with blindness for as long as I have, you tend to pick up a few tricks to help with even daily occurrences. Are you familiar with the Human invention of braille? Well, this is similar to that. By gently pressing faint traces of reiatsu through the pages of a book, I'm able to "pick up" on where the ink is on those given pages. In turn, this allows me to read!"

"Oh. I'm not surprised that you know of me. Though you give me far too much credit and undeserved fame. Also as per your earlier greeting, just Ailene will do. I may be the Septima Espada, though that does not make me special." With that, Maxi shook their head, keeping the same smile on their face. "If you insist, but don't sell yourself short. If you'd rather I address you as an equal then I will, but do keep in mind that you are above the standard Arrancar. The Espada are to be held in the highest of standards, because, well, you are the finest that Hueco Mundo has to offer. You don't think you were given your position simply because you're amusing to talk to, do you Ailene?" Once again, they chucked softly as they went to sip their tea.

Almost immediately, they were taken back by the taste. To find good tea in the Human World was difficult as it was; this was on a whole other level, comparatively. "I've certainly got to say, Ailene, this tea is truly well-made." Taking another sip, they began to stare at the tea with a puzzled look on their face, as though they were completely and utterly lost in thought. A few short seconds later, they once again decided to speak. "Jasmine?"

"Privaron Espada hun? If I recall correctly that would make you a former Espada fallen from grace. For a number of reasons you have been displaced. Perhaps someone stronger? Found of little use by Lord Kouhai?" Maxi once again made their signature chuckle aloud. This time around, though, they'd take the time to mess with the girl; see exactly how they reacted to what they were about to do. Slowly leaning in close to Ailene, not ending up any closer than a foot to the girl, they simply blinked once. Though, upon blinking, their eyes had shifted significantly. Instead of the piercing blue color, they were now deep red. Their sclerae were also a deep shade of black at the same time. As they spoke, their voice grew more and more verbose, and seemed to distort itself as time went on:

"Oh, Ailene; I simply stepped down from my previous position due t̷o̵ ̴n̸o̵t̶ ̸f̶e̶e̵l̸i̸n̵g̸.̷.̷.̸ ̵r̸i̶g̵h̴t̶ ̸f̷o̵r̷ ̵t̷h̶e̶ ̴j̸o̸b̸,̵ ̶y̸o̸u̵ ̶k̸n̵o̵w̷?̴ I̸̩͍̖͋̕n̴̢̈́̿̒ ̶̧͍̼͝t̶͚́̂͝i̷̪̞̐m̶̧͙͑͑͝ė̷̘͇̪͋͠,̴̥̟̊̋ ̶̻̰͚͋͗̍ţ̸̠̗̾̓h̸̪͍͑ȇ̴͉ ̷̻̦̱̃͋͠ŝ̶̨̝ẗ̵̝̝͗͝ȑ̷̮͝e̶̻̾͒̊s̸̩̐̑͑s̶͓̑ ̸͉̓̒͛ǫ̵͔̗̓͌f̸̨̘̪̌ ̶̞̣̽͛̈́t̸̼͇̹̓h̵̡̬̠̀̕͝a̷͖̿͊̇t̵̙̦͌̚ͅ ̷͉͂̿̿p̵͙̱̭̉̍o̵͓̱̝͆̈s̵̞̦͕̒͊͘i̴̖͂t̸̨̙̏́̍i̷̺͒ō̴͕̤n̷̠̞͔͑ ̶̬̟̅͝b̶͔̃e̸̓̓͜g̴̜̐i̵̮̓ǹ̶̻̫͓̎̈́s̸̮̺̀̐̋ ̶͚͚͒̑͜t̷̬̉̈́o̴̲̬͐ ̵̯̈͘w̶̤͖̭͛́͝ẻ̴̞͐a̸͖̾r̸̯̒͆ ̸̛͓̮̄͝d̵̹̅o̸͇̺̝̽͑͘w̷͕̹͝n̶͚͇͋̓́ ̸̟̅̊õ̵̟͎n̶̢͕̦̏ ̴̧̎̐͜ÿ̶̙͇́o̴̲̗̕u̷͙̪͐̓,̸̞̀͊ ̴͔̃̂͑ã̵͕̮n̷̢̪̞̂͂d̶̡̽͐ ̷͎͋̑̆I̶̛͈̔ ̸̤̙͙̿̀d̸̠̈́͊̋i̸̩͆d̶̬͌̆n̶̜̭̾̂͝'̴̡̳̯͋̒͘ṫ̵̼ ̶̘͕̃̔f̸͉͖̌͠e̸̟͉̤̔̓̈́é̴̯̠̕͠l̴̝̜͎̈́ ̸̜̾Ȉ̶̺͕͔͊ ̵͓̾͝c̶̯͆͂ö̴͓̪ȗ̴̜l̷͚͐͋d̷͓͋͝ ̵̛̯̂o̸̬̩̔p̸͓̾̚͜ḙ̸̃ŕ̶̮̤̱͝ą̵͙̤̂̈́̚t̶͓̄̿̃e̸̖̋͛̍ â̷̹̞̾́͒̒͒͝ẗ̷̡̰͙̤̯͔̠́̅̏ ̶͈̦̲̥̅f̶̺̩͚̓̈́͝û̵̖̰̼̹̯̙̪̺́̀͂͝l̴̹̾̉̈́́̃l̸͇̹̬̓͆́ ̷̢̥̗̿̽̕c̵͈̹͚̉̍̆́ͅạ̴̳͚̾̉̽̔͠p̸̣̈́̊̃͆a̴̱̰͈̖̖̙͖͊̀͆̋̚ç̴͚̮̱̫͓̦̔î̸͔̩͓̰̈̍̿͝t̷̯͕̑ý̵̻͗͗̆́ ̷̨̘̠͌̃͑͗͒̽͘͘f̵̛̼̣͙͈͛̎̈́̀̄͝o̴̡̨͓̪̹̹̪̬̒̾̉́̃͒̚r̶̪͇͙̦̲͔̊̌͜ͅ ̸̞͌̅̏̌ṫ̴̢͉͍̫̄́h̷̡̛̟̤̬̯̘̞́͌͑͐̍õ̸̪͕̌̇̃s̷̬̱̰̱̈́̐̉̑͊͝e̶̯̻̣̥̫̰̼̅͒ ̵̳̹̮͆͂͋̅͌̋͝l̶̨͎̣̮̹̻̟̮̉̀́̎̏̿ǫ̵̤̋̈̇̅n̷̢͚̙̜͙̦͚̎̑́̉̚ḡ̴ͅ ̷̭͎̀̀̂̕p̶̧̖̻̤̌̔̽ę̸͕̹̗̭̘̙̆͒̀̿̀͋̆͝ȓ̷̍̑̉͜ḭ̷̢̛͉͇̾̑o̴̝̘̿̈́͗́̆̏͝d̵̨͖̯̳͔̰͎̋̉͐̉̌̀͝͝ş̷͐͒̏̕͠͝ ̸̫͇̜̜͖̿̏͜͝o̶͍̝̱̳̓̽̂f̴͎͋͊̉̀̕̕ ̶̨̬̱̦͙̮̣̗̆̌t̴̞̗͍̤̥̫͒̃̀̓͗̔͘ḭ̸̃m̴̩͖͚̹͙̭̝̅̒̅́̂͊͘e̷̘͓̾̾̑.̵̣͇̾̀͒̎̋̉͑̚ ̵̡̧͕̟͍̜̎̐̓̈́̎͐̕͝Ļ̸̱̤̥̑́̌̾͋́ḛ̶̡͈̯̗̙͔͊͐͒̒̅ṫ̷̬͔͔̣̰͕͎̤́̏̅͒'̷̢̧̣͔̱͓̖͔̂̋̓̎̑̂͘͠s̸̪͔͙̖͐ ̵̧͚͔̟̖͉̳̀j̸͖̒u̶͈͎̱̞͙̭͑̓͂̌̀͑̀͝s̵̗͕̦͕͈̊̔͐̊́̓̈t̴̢̢̨̹͓̯̥̓͂̓͜͝ ̶͎͍͚̰̣̼̦͊́̄͛́͝ͅs̸̭̭̤͔̀̉͒̑̋̇̕͘ͅa̴̡̛̅y̴͉͓̜͓͙͔̜̓̾͐́̓͑̈́͝ ̷͚̍̑̆̈́̆̒I̶̬͚͖̦̳͇̊͐͋̇͊͝ ̷̯͉̾͠f̴̛̹͎̓͋̊̈̊͑ȍ̵̲̜͈͕̠͔̹̗̎͗̿ü̷̗͕̃͆̕n̸̢̛͇̯͍̪͗̀́̇̈͌̚d̷̮̤͕͚̜́̋͛̆̀͑̆͝ ̵̛̹̩̘͓̱͚̔̅͑͆̾̋͝m̵̢̧͎͖̲̠͔̃̇̂́̾͘͝y̴̛̯̳̗̒̓̈̍̔̓̈́ ̵̡͉͉̟̺̯̀̓̏̋͑ͅó̸̭̔̃̉͊̈́̚̕w̷̨̫̪͇͑̊n̴̼̞̮͉͎͘ ̷̟̪̓̂̔̈̈́̃̍̒p̷͚͖̲͍̝͓̣͑͑̐ạ̵̩͍̤͖̭͙̒́̕t̶̼̭̜̂h̸̡͇̜̹͖̰̓͒̈́̽̽̄͝ ̶̧́́f̷̻̜̮͎̣̆̈́r̸̲̰͎̩̦͈͔̆͆̒̄̒ớ̷̧̠̗͛͊̽͗̓͠m̶̨̭̱̪̮̫͕̩͐̃ ̵͚̘̣̘͔͐̆̐̆͐́͆͠t̷̝̖̬͚͍̭̀͗͋̓̾ḩ̶͓̳͖̺̫̘̭̇̄̓͝e̸̺̳̰̥̙̼͚͆́r̷̬͓͉̦͕̥͎̈́̚̕͝ḛ̷͓͚̇̓͋̆̇͆͂͝ ̷̡̠̠̥̮̔͑ͅͅǫ̶͔͈̦͉̱̥̣̓n̵̰̩͚̼̪̠͚͊͒͂,̵̡̹̘͚̺̤̟̊͆̍̄̀ ̶̼̙̭̟̦̖͂͒͑͗́͛͗́ś̴͔͎̞̙͎͓̈́͊̊͊̕͝ͅh̶̨͍͖͈́̈́̆́̎͒͝a̴͔͇̫̖̎̌͑̐̍̑͌l̵̲̝̥̲̣̦̋͛l̸̻͖̹̔̽̎̄̏͆͌͘ ̸̹̎̐́̀͘w̴͈̻̱͈̠̺̲̘̄̆̈́̃̔͌̋͝e̴̛̳̙͖͇̭͖͓͝ͅ?̴̠̘͉̯̙͌̑̐̓̅̀"̶͙̋́̀

Clearing their throat, Maxi blinked again a few times and sat back, their eyes back to normal. "My apologies, excuse me for that. I can't quite say I know what came over me. But, yes; I didn't feel my skills were up to par with where other Espada were reaching, and seeing as I've hit my peak, I simply stepped down. Lord Kouhai didn't seem to have a problem with it, nor did the other Espada at the time. Though, I must say; the one that came after me was quite the interesting one; non-combative, much like yourself. I believe his name was something like Adolf?" Ultimately, they were more looking for some kind of reaction from the girl.

Listening to the girl speak, Maxi simply smiled and nodded as she went on and shared her opinions on the matters of what Kouhai had instructed of the two of them. Toward the end, they decided to give their two-cents. "Well, sharpening minds does sound very attractive, but I suppose we have little to gain from that for the purposes of combat. I would not be opposed to either necessarily. Especially if Lord Kouhai mandated it. After all, I do serve him first and foremost." "I do agree entirely there, Ailene, perhaps a bit of physical training could certainly do us some good. I'd very much love to see what you're capable of, if you'd allow me to?"

[Ailene Haschiro]

The Septima Espada, being ever patient, waited for Maxi to offer a response to her question about his ability to read. After all, if it was true that he was blind, Ailene would find little reason for this Arrancar to even think about reading a book. Not that she didn't appreciate the sentiment. Regardless, she listened. "Well, when you live with blindness for as long as I have, you tend to pick up a few tricks to help with even daily occurrences. Are you familiar with the Human invention of braille? Well, this is similar to that. By gently pressing faint traces of reiatsu through the pages of a book, I'm able to "pick up" on where the ink is on those given pages. In turn, this allows me to read!"

Nodding a little, Ailene smiled. She spoke, her voice still silky smooth and comforting like a mother. "I am a little familiar with braille. Never practiced it much myself, but I've done a little reading on it. What a fascinating technique though. To be able to produce a faint reiatsu like that. You must have impressive control." There was little deception behind the Arrancar's voice. She had a similar trick, but for an entirely different reason. The Espada briefly stood up and began to rummage through her collection. As she returned, her hands held tight a block of solid rock. Despite its properties, the stone itself was beautifully  cut and smooth to the touch. 

With an added movement, she reached up to her hair. With a yank, she pulled a senbon out of hair that was keeping it in the lovely bun she had. As her hair fell down, Ailene shook it gently to get used to her naturally longer hair again. She just preferred the cleaner and modest look that she normally possessed. Regardless, Ailene smiled. "I suppose this technique could be considered similar in terms of flow, but different form." As the Septima Espada tapped her finger on the senbon as her reiatsu flowed through the metal needle. The tip began to glow as it almost seemed to artificially extend. A dark purple energy, pointed and controlled, would flow off of the tip.

If Maxi focused upon the reiatsu, he would most likely recognize its unique properties. Her energy that was flowing through the needle and making this needle of reiatsu was clearly a Cero. Held back and controlled, Ailene began to bring the needle down the face of the rock. With an expert hand, the Arrancar began to write in beautiful cursive, "𝓟𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓻𝓽𝔂 𝓸𝓯 𝓐𝓲𝓵𝓮𝓷𝓮 𝓗𝓪𝓼𝓬𝓱𝓲𝓻𝓸". As she finished the inscription of her name, the Espada slowly raised the needle. With a quick cessation of flow, the needle stopped emitting this reiatsu. While the needle had been melted from the intense heat produced even by the small Cero, the rock face was sizzling as Ailene blew onto the text. Cooling down almost immediately, Ailene looked down at her work and offered the rock to Moxi to inspect. 

She would speak in her usual tone of voice. "As you can see, I can use it like an Artisan's Tool of sorts. It took me quite a few techniques to get the technique down. Regardless, I've been impressed with the results." Assuming that Ailene received the rock back, she would place it down upon her shelf, looking up for all onlookers to see the lovely inscription. With a hushed sigh, she reached into a glass jar. Grabbing another senbon, she would return her hair to its natural state. After all, this is what she was most comfortable with. After a few moments, her hair was expertly wrapped up into a bun once more. Returning to her seat to entertain her guest, the Arrancer overhead Maxi's praise of her tea. "Jasmine?"

Ailene nodded in response with a smile, hoping that Maxi was still able to receive the affirmation. Regardless, she was witness to the Arrancars' next statement of her position. Admittedly this produced a rather amused expression on the Espada's face. "If you insist, but don't sell yourself short. If you'd rather I address you as an equal then I will, but do keep in mind that you are above the standard Arrancar. The Espada are to be held in the highest of standards, because, well, you are the finest that Hueco Mundo has to offer. You don't think you were given your position simply because you're amusing to talk to, do you Ailene?" She could not help, but blink a little.

The Espada began to look up, her eyes staring into her room. This was an interesting question as she has never been asked this before. "Well, don't get me wrong. I certainly value manners. After all it is hard to come by around here. With the way the system is in place in Hueco Mundo. Not just limited to Las Noches. Though it is for that reason that I don't flaunt my abilities. Nor do I try to portray myself as superior. Briefly taking a sip of her tea, she would continue. "I cherish some of the finer qualities of life. I do not share the same desire for bloodshed. Nor do I desire domination. Am I capable of violence? Of course. I would not be alive to tell you this if I was not. Though it is not my primary directive." 

After finishing and expressing an understanding of the Privaron Espada, she noticed that the Arrancar before her was leaning in. Almost in an ominous manner in fact. With a blink of his eyes, the calm blue orbs became dark and reddened. Speaking in almost a distorted voice, Ailene sat there, blinking every now and then, but listening. "Oh, Ailene; I simply stepped down from my previous position due to not feeling... right for the job, you know? In time, the stress of that position begins to wear down on you, and I didn't feel I could operate at full capacity for those long periods of time. Let's just say I found my own path from there on, shall we?"

If it was Maxi's goal to frighten the Espada, he would be sorely disappointed. Not to be misunderstood. Ailene was unsettled by the sudden change in demeanor. In fact, she felt a certain lack of warmth fill her. Despite this unsettling feeling, Ailene was truly a gentle spirit. She was very good at hiding her fear. Or her uncertainty when she desired to. Or at least not displaying it very openly. One would have to truly dig deep to find the essence of fear in her body language and expressions. As another blink closed the black void that was this Arrancars' eyes, his orbs returned to their charming blue coloration. Ailene was certainly intrigued as she decided to see what else he had to say. 

"My apologies, excuse me for that. I can't quite say I know what came over me. But, yes; I didn't feel my skills were up to par with where other Espada were reaching, and seeing as I've hit my peak, I simply stepped down. Lord Kouhai didn't seem to have a problem with it, nor did the other Espada at the time. Though, I must say; the one that came after me was quite the interesting one; non-combative, much like yourself. I believe his name was something like Adolf?" Upon mention of that last name, Ailene blinked for a moment. Why did that seem so familiar? A past acquaintance of her other life? It had to be! She was sure that Ludwig never mentioned him. Regardless, Ailene would respond though first fixated on something else. 

"I have got to admit, that was a rather impressive display. Of what I'm not quite sure yet, but bravo." Ailene was one for flattery in some instances. She knew its language well. Furthermore, she didn't buy Maxi's playing coy for an instant. She had the feeling that this was deliberate. In an effort to frighten her? Intimidate her? Impress her? She was not sure. Regardless, she kept a close eye on the Arrancar. She was curious to see what his true nature was. What he was hiding. Her mind immediately returned to her initial observation of his skin. What was first a belief of paranoia quickly became a more grounded theory. She truly was curious. She would continue speaking. "As for this Adolf...it sounds familiar. Though I apologize in my forgetfulness. I do not exactly remember a fellow by that name."

Expressing her interest in a more hands on display, Ailene listened to Maxi offer a similar sentiment. Normally she would not go out of her way to train with other Arrancar as it typically related to barbarism and uncivilities. This time, her curiosity had her make an exception. "I do agree entirely there, Ailene, perhaps a bit of physical training could certainly do us some good. I'd very much love to see what you're capable of, if you'd allow me to?" Ailene smiled briefly. This was truly the inquisitive one. "Well. I don't see why not. Lord Kouhai seems to desire that I apply myself more. Though by your request, I surmise that you wish to spar? If so, I once again see little reason to not indulge. After all, a former Espada should be a treat to face. Lead the way. I shall follow." Her words were chosen carefully. She wanted to see how receptive this Arrancar was to both flattery and following. Perhaps this would give her more insight. 

[Deleted]

Hearing the compliment from Ailene about their reiatsu control, Maxi simply bowed their head. "Thank you for your words," they said, "but I promise you there's really nothing to it. Perhaps at a later time I could show you if you'd like to learn the trick." Truth be told, this was a very large majority of how Orobas dealt with simple day-to-day interactions. Reading reiatsu signatures and auras had become the only way they'd been able to get a feel for the world around them, after being as cut off from everything as they were due to their sight.

"I suppose this technique could be considered similar in terms of flow, but different form." A comment like that couldn't help but pique Maxi's interest. Widening their eyes ever so slightly and meeting the girl with a smile, they waited patiently to see just what she'd meant. Not a few moments later, the reiatsu of a Cero immediately caught Maxi off-guard, forcing them to stand up almost immediately and enter a defensive state. Quickly realizing what had been going on, they promptly sat back down. "My apologies," they started with a chuckle, "but please, a warning about a Cero would be much appreciated."

As they patiently waited to see the girl's craftsmanship, they couldn't help but wonder just what kind of a fighter Ailene was like. To have such an intense mastery over Cero to allow her skills to be used in such a way was impressive, to say the least. Surely she'd have some sort of skill with Cero while actually in combat; they'd be incredibly interested to see just how far that could be pushed to the very limit. They'd have to wait and see what her combat skills were like before making a judgement like that, though.

With the Cero reiatsu fizzling out and Ailene handing Maxi the rock, they did the same trick they had done with their book; pressing their reiatsu through the rock itself, they managed to get a good mental image of the rock itself, thanks to energy visualization. Absolutely blown away by her work, Maxi couldn't help but preach words of affirmation. "This is truly amazing work," they said, "easily one of the most impressive uses of reiatsu I've seen in a very, very long time. Well done."

Listening to the girl's words from there about where she stood on respect from Arrancar in general, Maxi held a smile the entire time. "Well, don't get me wrong. I certainly value manners. After all it is hard to come by around here. With the way the system is in place in Hueco Mundo. Not just limited to Las Noches. Though it is for that reason that I don't flaunt my abilities. Nor do I try to portray myself as superior. I cherish some of the finer qualities of life. I do not share the same desire for bloodshed. Nor do I desire domination. Am I capable of violence? Of course. I would not be alive to tell you this if I was not. Though it is not my primary directive."

Taking a sip of their tea while she was speaking, Maxi decided to chime in once she had finished. "Well, that's quite the respectable approach to take. It's very nice to see that you're as level-headed as they come. Humble, too; you truly don't see much of anyone these days practicing the same level of humility as yourself, it's relieving to see that there are those folk even in this damned world that still hold themselves to a higher moral standard. Good on you for that much."

After they finished speaking, and as a change of conversation had occurred, they leaned in in order to try to provoke a response from the Espada. Though, much to their disappointment, the entire endeavor had been fruitless, to say the least. Normally they'd been rather skillful at reading into peoples' emotions and had been able to provoke a response from quite a few, this girl was much different. She'd be significantly harder to crack than others they'd dealt with.

"I have got to admit, that was a rather impressive display. Of what I'm not quite sure yet, but bravo." Holding up a smile, though nonetheless frustrated at their failed attempts of provoking an emotional response from the girl, Maxi simply nodded. "Much obliged. I look to impress where I can, lest my life be taken by those of a higher standing. Parlor tricks tend to be the reason those of a similar rank to yourself haven't outright murdered me in cold blood."

"As for this Adolf...it sounds familiar. Though I apologize in my forgetfulness. I do not exactly remember a fellow by that name." Maxi simply chuckled at this response. "Oh, you needn't worry about small problems like that, Ailene; that name is simply lost to time at this point. His time here was... short, to say the least. Were it not for two separate successors, one of which still remaining active, I would've looked to grab that position once more. Alas, it seems I wasn't fast enough in doing so."

"Well. I don't see why not. Lord Kouhai seems to desire that I apply myself more. Though by your request, I surmise that you wish to spar? If so, I once again see little reason to not indulge. After all, a former Espada should be a treat to face. Lead the way. I shall follow." Slowly forcing themselves to stand up, as though their initial jump back had taken a toll on them, Maxi simply smiled at the girl. "Not a problem. Though, you'll have to forgive me, I may be a bit slow on the way."

Finishing up their tea and quickly putting back the book they'd taken out in its correct spot, Maxi left Ailene's quarters, hopefully with the younger girl in tow. "I am curious," they asked, slowly but surely making their way through the halls, "what kind of a combatant are you, for lack of a better term? I myself tend to take a mixed approach to a fight; I like to enter close quarters every now and again. I am curious though, what about yourself?"

Eventually making their way to one of the lower floors, one much more open than any of the Espada's quarters, Maxi took a deep breath as they began to walk away from Ailene, and turn around to face her about thirty feet away or so. Upon exhaling, a wave of hellish reiatsu began to surge from them; nothing like that of an Arrancar's own signature. Their eyes switched back to that same red color, and a rather thick tendril burst through from their shoulder blade, wrapping around their left arm and forming to a point. For those that likely couldn't pick it up, Maxi had entered their first stage of release.

"Septima Espada, Ailene Haschiro, I look forward to testing your combat abilities."

[Ailene Haschiro]

As Ailene rose to prepare to follow the other Arrancar, she was a little surprised to hear Maxi's reasoning for his rather slow and lethargic movements. "Not a problem. Though, you'll have to forgive me, I may be a bit slow on the way." The Septima Espada was far from impatient. She could wait though she was curious about this Arrancar's age. His physical appearance presented as a middle-aged gentleman who still looked rather handsome. He did not seem to be bursting with life nor was he decrepit and seemingly knocking on death's door. Though the Espada was admittedly a little curious. Was it his blindness or true lack of physical ability that may prevent him to be slower?

Regardless of the answer to that question, Ailene maintained patience. There was no rush. After all, she was not the one typically looking to pick a fight. Though this situation could prove fruitful. After all, there had been many indications and hints that this Maxi was not who he claimed to be. First the skin, then the little trick with the eyes. His seemingly close relation to Lord Kouhai. It just seemed odd to her. As she followed, it seemed that Maxi had a question for her. One to perhaps test the waters and look into the Espada's fighting style. Or perhaps it was just interest? After all. Maxi claimed to not be very combative just like Ailene. Then again. What could she trust at this point. 

"What kind of a combatant are you, for lack of a better term? I myself tend to take a mixed approach to a fight; I like to enter close quarters every now and again. I am curious though, what about yourself?" The Arrancar could not help, but chuckle. Pondering for a moment, her voice began carry itself through the empty halls. "Well as stated before, fighting is not my first choice. As a scholar first, I use words as my preferred way of dismantling a situation. Though as I said, violence is something that I am capable of. When needing to resort to a fight, I would consider myself to be more effective at close ranges. Though I do possess the capacity for ranged combat."

Ailene sighed a little as she resumed with her description of her own abilities. "You can consider me reserved. Calm. Calculating to begin. Though if pushed to it I can become cruel. Ruthless. Most of all though, I become very aggressive." Naturally Ailene was referring to her Resurrecciòn. As an Arrancar who sealed a majority of her ability into her blade, she had the luxury of being able to pass herself off as weak. Despite this, she still had the capacity to intimidate though she preferred other ways of coercion. One of her rather unique fears was her transformation upon utilizing her Resurrecciòn. Unlike most who cherished the power it granted, Ailene despised it. 

As they entered the hall where there training would begin, the Espada was amazed by the large room. She had been here many times of course due to her frequent ventures through the fortress. Regardless, something about its magnitude continued to impress her time and time again. As Maxi moved away from her, she could see a relaxation his pose. Ailene was curious to see what type of abilities that this Arrancar possessed. What was his Resurrecciòn. What stra-. The Espada was stopped in her tracks as she felt a new sensation. It was clearly coming from Maxi, but it was viscous. It felt larger than life. The Espada narrowed her eyes. He was clearly flexing his reiatsu, but this signature felt wrong.

Even despite the Espada's rather meager ability to sense the reiatsu of others, this was quite clear. It did not feel like an Arrancar or a Hollow for that matter at all. Instead, she felt as if there was a heat to it. An infernal fire burning behind the sensation. As an Arrancar, especially one who served Las Noches and Lord Kouhai, Ailene was familiarized with Hell. Though she had rarely met a denizen of that plane. She had done some reading on it and this sensation fit the bill. It seemed that Maxi was not being entirely forward about his identity. Suddenly, every red flag in Ailene's head was on high alert. Who was he? Better yet, what was he?

Her reading had allowed her to familiarize herself with the different denizes of Hell. The Saika. The half-breed Nakabakki. Even the elusive Akki. Which one of these could he be. As she felt the reiatsu, she also heard Maxi speak. "Septima Espada, Ailene Haschiro, I look forward to testing your combat abilities." Ailene smirked. She was getting a little excited. Her first time truly getting intimately close to a denizen of Hell. She responded. "I see. So my hunch was right. I thought it was just my fatigue, but that is not your actual skin is it? Then Maxi, I do have to wonder who you really are. Or what you really are for that matter." Th Espada grinned as she smiled, cracking her neck for a moment. 

Drawing her Zanpakutou, she took a good look at the Akki's tendril. Wrapping around his arm and extending, it reminded her somewhat of a lance. With a chuckle, she needed to test the waters. Of course no matter what, her arsenal was limited in one major way. The inability to use Gran Ray Cero while within Las Noches. Regardless, she would get to the bottom of this. First she needed to see just how he would react. The Espada began moving towards Orobas at a leisurely speed of 120. After all, for now it was her best.  Though she was not simply moving in a straight line towards him. Instead, she would begin produce platforms of reishi for her to stand upon. Hopping on each one of them at a time, she from an upward angle was prepared to come crashing down with that appeared to be an overhead strike. This was only the feint, however. Assuming that Orobas struck at her with the lance or even with a ranged attack, Ailene would prematurely create an Air-ground as she came down upon Orobas. She would also do this if he did not react. Using the Air Ground, she would use the termporary foothold for a Sonido. Her speed being amplified to an impressive 1560, the static would appear behind Orobas as she balled her hand into a fist. Producing a bit of reiatsu she would attempt to fire a bala at the Akki's back to see what would occur. 

[Deleted]

"I see. So my hunch was right. I thought it was just my fatigue, but that is not your actual skin is it? Then Maxi, I do have to wonder who you really are. Or what you really are for that matter." Orobas couldn't help but let out a chuckle at the sound of these words. A chuckle that quickly devolved into laughter over a period of time, before fading into silence. Not a few seconds later, Orobas' real voice began to shine through. "You're quite the intelligent young lady, aren't you Ailene? Well, then perhaps I should fill you in on who I may be?"

Once Ailene began to hop from platform to platform while in the air, Orobas simply watched her with interest at the technique she had been using; some form of air ground shouldn't have been possible normally while in Hueco Mundo, but she seemed to be making it work quite well. They'd have to pick up that technique at some point; perhaps after their time with this girl was spent and finished? It was genuinely hard to say when they'd take the opportunity to learn it, but that time was going to come at some point.

As she began to reach close range, Orobas didn't move; they didn't even begin to flinch. They simply let the girl reach the air above them, feint a strike from the sky, bounce back on their little platform, and go in for a strike behind them; a bala, fired at tremendous speeds straight for their spine. They hadn't been worried about it though, as once it had collided with them, it simply dissipated as though no damage had occurred. They'd been forced to lurch forward just a bit from the force, but this was quickly going to be acted upon.

Taking a step forward just from the force, Orobas took the time to immediately vanish from view, leaving behind a black flicker in the girl's vision for a split second as they appeared right above her. Without making much of a noise at all, Orobas began to fall from the air, looking to come down on the girl with their lance-like tendril, trying to cleave her straight down the middle. They seldom looked to preserve a fight they didn't need to, and instead looked to tear apart their victims at earliest convenience.

Whether Ailene moved out of the way or not wasn't of their concern; they were bringing their blade down either way. Though, once their blade had reached the farthest point downward they could manage to bring it, Orobas simply stood up, and stared in the girl's direction as if nothing had changed. For the moment, they were taking a very "counterattack" approach to the girl's own fighting style. They weren't going to let themselves be hit by stray attacks if they could help it, and they were going to try to catch the girl off guard whenever possible.

"Since you seem to be interested," they started, still as unmoving as before, "I'll fill you in on who I am. I've been known by many names over the millennia, and even more so now. Though, one has stuck above others; that name is Orobas. Let that name strike weariness into your heart, Ailene. I am, in fact, an Akki. Currently, I am the strongest Akki to exist at this very moment; I stand in Kouhai's elite forces of Hell; I am the leader of an organization known by the name Envainar. I promise you this will not be an easy exchange between us; I do not intend to hold back against you for very long. I only hope you follow in suit and do the same."

[Ailene Haschiro]

As Ailene executed her series of feints and attacks, she was pondering on the nature of who Maxi could be. After all, this hellish reiatsu that she sensed certainly was not normal for an Arrancar. Not only that, but his power. It felt intimidating. Crushing. Almost indominable. Comparable to her own abilities. No. It felt like it even exceeded her own. The Espada was both unnerved and fascinated by him. While she felt this in her core, she knew that she could appear unmoved. Stoic even. Ailene was a soul who was very resilient to fear and distractions. She recognized the feeling and knew that she felt it, but she was very good at hiding herself. Masking her own feelings.

Having successfully gotten behind Orobas, she fired her bala with certainty at her opponent. Naturally her abilities were severely weakened when her power was sealed, but she could still hold her own against a number of opponents through ingenuity and strategy alone. The bala fired from her hand rocketed towards Orobas. As it, with impressive speed, rammed against the Akki, Ailene watched Orobas lurch forward. Though there was something terrible wrong in her mind. Even a bala at her level could leave marks. Sometimes blow holes in her adversaries. Orobas was unique, however. While he clearly had some physical feedback, there was no indication of harm to the Akki. 

For that briefest of moments, Ailene displayed suprise more than anything. Though even deeper within, she felt an anxiety. Once again, she did not show it to Orobas, but it was certainly there. Whether the Akki could sense the subtle shift in her stance as she for a moment shifted her stance backward was to be seen. Regardless, Ailene saw the Akki vanish from her very eyes. Using a technique unlike any Ailene had ever seen, Orobas disappeared in a wave of darkness that lasted merely a moment. As she regained her sight, the Espada was put on high alert. Using her potent analyzing abilities and impressive battle instinct, the Espada rationalized where Orobas could be. 

Was he behind her? The Espada quickly looked backward and saw nothing. Below her was not a possibility unless Orobas was willing to break Lord Kouhai's palace. That left only one other logical place. As she looked up, she saw the dark form of the Akki above her. Falling and seemingly looking to cleave her in two. If she didn't move, she would certainly be, but a bloody mess on the floor. Charging herself with reiatsu, the Esapda used another Sonido to move a fair distance away. About 20 feet or so. In a crouched position, Ailene sighed for a moment until she felt a slight pain on her shoulder. Looking over, she saw her white robe stained with a bit of her own blood. As her mind returned to that moment in slow motion, she recognized being hit before the Sonido fully initialized. Thankfully, it was only a glancing blow.

Ailene rose to her feet as she watched Orobas move with the grace of a stone statue. She noticed for a moment that Orobas was looking to speak. She'd indulge him. "I'll fill you in on who I am. I've been known by many names over the millennia, and even more so now. Though, one has stuck above others; that name is Orobas. Let that name strike weariness into your heart, Ailene. I am, in fact, an Akki. Currently, I am the strongest Akki to exist at this very moment; I stand in Kouhai's elite forces of Hell; I am the leader of an organization known by the name Envainar. I promise you this will not be an easy exchange between us; I do not intend to hold back against you for very long. I only hope you follow in suit and do the same."

Ailene narrowed her eyes for a moment as Orobas revealed his name and the fact that he was an Akki. That all checked out. Yet what immediately changed her disposition was his reveal as one of the Envainar. Sliding her foot back and raising her blade, she took a combat-ready stance. If Orobas could sense this shift, it would be an immediate indicator of distress. Ailene knew little of Hell's forces. Rumors and here say. Bits of information scattered across Hueco Mundo. Vaguely familiar with the title of Envainar, the inquisitive Espada chuckled. Last she read, the Envainar were a defunct organization. Torn apart and left to rot. It seems that information was not nearly as accurate as she once believed it to be. The Espada would certainly have questions.

The Septima Espada did her best to keep her voice free of worry. She was rather good at this. "The Envainar huh? I have to admit. I am the type of individual who likes to be in the know. To analyze and educate myself on all aspects of knowledge. Yet the Envainar have always been shrouded in mystery. A veil of shadow hiding your actions. What I do know is that you all are cherry picked by Lord Kouhai. Primarily dominated by denizens of Hell. That is the extend of my knowledge though I daresay I have a better understanding than most. Am I inaccurate?" The Espada chuckled. Perhaps she could bring levity to this otherwise stress-inducing situation. 

Though there was something weighing heavily on the Arrancars' mind. Something that she truly desired an answer to. Her voice still carried with an a calm intensity. "So two things. First, my bala did very little to you. Sure, a clear physical force, but you are rather far from harmed. I like to think I have great skills of deduction. We Arrancar, as you may know, possess Hierro. My abilities are far weakened while in this state. As such, am I correct in assuming you have some type of similar defense?" The Espada would continue. "Second, if you truly are an Envainar, why train with me? Why the Septima Espada? Did Lord Kouhai truly put you up to this or is this of your own design?"

Her questions would come out like machine-gun fire. She was a scholar after all. She wanted to learn. To analyze. This would bring her to test a hypothesis. If Orobas confirmed the Envainar Guard, she would attempt this anyway to satiate her own curiosity. Even among many Arrancar who had a passion and love for Cero, Ailene had a kind of mastery over her usage of the classic technique. Without much movement, the ball of burning reiatsu began to form before her. Most would have to extend limb, but Ailene could fashion one using the ambient reiatsu mixed with her own, giving it the burning property it was so well known for. As it formed after mere moments, the reiatsu would expand and burst out towards Orobas. If he didn't move, it would threaten to consume him. There would be little worry of it damaging the outer walls of the room since Ailene designed it to lose intensity, vanishing into a puff of smoke after consuming Orobas. Now it was time to see if this defense was potent enough to resist a Cero.

[Deleted]

As Orobas came crashing down from the air with their bladed arm, they'd immediately made a notice of the fact that they'd landed a slight nick on the girl's shoulder. Smirking to themselves as they stood up, they stopped for a second to analyze their own arm. They'd broken the girl's skin. Letting out a low chuckle, Orobas gently dipped two of their fingers into the now bloodied blade, and smeared it across the palm of their free hand. That'd come in use later for sure.

Standing back up and straightening out their posture, they began to explain just who they were, and what they were doing here in Hueco Mundo. They had expected a few questions from the girl, but not nearly as much that came rapid-fire once they finished speaking. Simply smirking and chuckling to themselves, they noticed rather quickly that the girl had begun to charge a Cero; the signature roar and standout reiatsu signature gave it away quite quickly.

Not wanting to stick around to have to deal with that rather uncomfortable surge of reiatsu, Orobas waited until right before the Cero had been launched, and once again decided to Placidus behind the girl as the wave of reiatsu began to wash over where they'd previously been standing. The same blackening of the air around both of them occurred, as they reappeared not a few inches away from the girl. Gently tapping the girl's back the moment they appeared, Orobas decided to cast their signature spell.

At this range, Kurohitsugi wasn't going to be avoidable by either party. Ultimately, they hadn't worried about themselves, but Ailene probably would've been a bit startled by this if all went well. They simply wanted some sort of reaction from the girl. At this point it was like succumbing to an addiction; they weren't going to stop until they got something from the girl. Thanks to their mastery over the technique, Orobas had been able to hold back the blades from launching at that very moment.

Clearing their throat, Orobas began to speak. "Well," they started, "to answer your first question, you are actually quite correct in your guess there; I've got to say, I'm quite impressed. Usually it takes a few more hits until people actually seem to pick up on that, and even then some people don't. Kudos to you for that one, Ailene. Second, though, is a bit more complex than just a simple answer. I will, however, inform you that you are partially correct in your guess. I was called upon by Lord Kouhai for this, but I won't lie and say that was the only reason I took this up. I've my reasons for this spar, and if all go well, I'll disclose them to you in due time. For now, though, I'd like to see what you're able to do here. Ciao."

Once again using their teleportation technique, Orobas simply vanished from reality, seemingly working to blacken an already blackened interior of the kido the two of them had been inside of. Appearing on the outside, Orobas held one hand out facing the cube, as various chunks began to shift outward, effectively "priming" the technique. Letting out another low chuckle, Orobas closed their hand into a fist as those extended parts shifted quickly into the cube, much like what you'd expect from an Iron Maiden.

Ultimately, their goal was to see if the girl could withstand even a mediocre-strength Kurohitsugi. If not, then they'd have no reason to stick around from then on. With what they were after, they needed to know that someone could withstand something like that, even if it was only one time that was required. They knew damn well that there were others in Soul Society that could launch a much stronger strike than the one they'd fired against Ailene, and they wanted to make sure that someone would've been able to take that. If she wasn't able to, then they'd simply finish the job and keep searching.

[Ailene Haschiro]

As the Espada prepared to fire the Cero, she was genuinely not sure whether Orobas would be willing to remain still for the purposes of her little experiment. Regardless, she had to try anyway. This would give her valuable insight. As the orb of purple reiatsu expanded and rocketed towards Orobas, threatening to swallow him whole, Ailene noticed the same disappearing act as last time. The same instance of reiatsu as black as night washing over her eyes, seemingly blinding her for a split second, she pouted as she realized that the Cero would not do its job. Well, at least she got him to move. Perhaps a Cero could harm him? Maybe he just did not like the feeling of the Cero regardless of whether he could defend against it.

Regardless, the Arrancar was on high alert again. Though she would far to slow. As the Hado was cast, Ailene watched as black blocks of reiatsu began to form around her. Closing shut rather quickly, Ailene found herself with very little time as before she could take one step forward, the Kurohitsugi had locked her inside. Though she was surprised upon turning around to see the form of Orobas trapped in here with her. The Espada raised an eyebrow as she scoffed. She was quite familiar with this technique. In all her time of being an Arrancar, she had only encountered the fabled Black Coffin one or two times. Of course, she made up for the rest of it in reading. It was quite infamous after all. 

Holding her Zanpakutou still, but relaxing her stance, Ailene sighed as she recognized the futility of escape in her current form. Before Orobas had a chance to speak, Ailene would chuckle and give commentary. "Huh. Kido. You truly are full of surprises aren't you Orobas?" Was Ailene worried? Absolutely. Did she show it? To some degree. It was lesser given that she recognized Orobas being trapped in her with her. At least, this is what she falsely believed. Before Orobas would speak, she would continue her commentary. "So then. It seems we are both trapped in here for now. Aiming to give us privacy? Or looking to end this quickly?" She looked around for a moment. "Kurohitsugi if I recall correctly. The infamous "Black Coffin". Quite a technique you have there. Though I thought only Shinigami were capable of that blasted Kido. Are Akki capable of it too then?" 

As Ailene spoke, she began to attempt to stall for time. Internally, she had already rationalized that she needed to release to even hope of escaping this. Even then, there was one technique that could help her escape this. Though she may get flack for it later. After all, among the anarchic order of the Espada, there were two rules in Las Noches that applied specifically to Esapda. The more relevant of which was the forbiddance of using Gran Ray Cero while within the fortress of Las Noches. It seemed that she had little choice. Hopefully this Black Coffin would absorb most of it. Slowly her reiatsu began to shift. Becoming less dense and instead feeling more powerful. Of course at this point, if Orobas could sense her strength, the pitiful 500 RS would be little match for the Black Coffin. She then looked upon Orobas who hopefully began answering both her current and prior questions. 

"To answer your first question, you are actually quite correct in your guess there; I've got to say, I'm quite impressed. Usually it takes a few more hits until people actually seem to pick up on that, and even then some people don't. Kudos to you for that one, Ailene. Second, though, is a bit more complex than just a simple answer. I will, however, inform you that you are partially correct in your guess. I was called upon by Lord Kouhai for this, but I won't lie and say that was the only reason I took this up. I've my reasons for this spar, and if all go well, I'll disclose them to you in due time. For now, though, I'd like to see what you're able to do here. Ciao."

Once again everything checked out, but Ailene blinked for a moment. "Ciao?..." As the Akki utilized another Placidus, Ailene's eyes widened with anxiety. The first true facial display of fear this entire time as she realized that Orobas had left her in here to be skewered. Exclaiming loudly into the inky black void, "Damn it!" Raising her blade she began to sigh for a moment as she spoke with resolve. "Let's hope you can handle this...Spread and Contaminate, Ausbruch!" Within the Black Coffin, a purple-tinted sphere of reiatsu enveloped her. From the orb of pestilence rose a beast. A 15 ft long wyvern which shrieked loudly. She did not need to endure the Hado if she could destroy it instead. Wasting little time, the Espada's claw ripped against her scales, penetrating flesh. The blood underneath staining the claw, Ailene's long and slender reptilian tongue licked at it. 

As Orobas was planning to utilize the power of the Kurohitsugi, he would likely sense Ailene's Resurrecciòn along with the powerful burst of reiatsu that accompanied it. This powerful burst would only grow, however, as the the Espada would charge another Cero. This one was unique, however. Intermingled with her own blood, limited to Espada and blue in coloration; the supremely powerful Gran Ray Cero was born. Able to be felt by even the weakest of souls, Ailene unleashed the Cero upon the Black Coffin. Shooting outward at an incredible speed and resulting in an even more grandiose explosion of electricity and reiatsu, the Black Coffin would at minimum have a hole blown through it most likely. Taking the chance and using a Sonido if it only created a hole and simply moving outward her her normal speed if it was utterly destroyed, Ailene reeled back for a moment and unleashed yet another horrific screech. 

She softly growled as her eyes focused on Orobas. She had already felt the true power of her reiatsu along with her physical strength become rejuvenated. Suddenly a purple-black mist shot out from Ailene. What first appeared to be a one-time burst seemed numerous. The mist would not stop as Ailene growled softly, intent on focusing upon the Akki. With her broken words, she began to speak. "Mmm..Hungry. Orobas. Feed. Maim. Devourrrr..." It would be clear that with this incredible power, Ailene lost most of her cognitive faculties. The sophisticated personality lost to the killer instinct that resides within the beast of her caliber. Ailene did not move. Instead, she would growl, beginning to size up Orobas. The true fight would now begin.  

SPOILER: Click to show

{Gran Ray Cero - 2500 OS}Technique Name: [Gran Rey Cero (Grand King's Zero)]

Class: [2]

Technique Type: [Hollow Technique]

Technique Element: Lightning

Technique Description and Effects:

An Espada-exclusive Cero of such great might that its use is forbidden while under the dome of Las Noches. It requires the user's blood to be used as a sacrifice to activate, but when activated is charged at about the same speed as a regular Cero. It is always blue in color, and appears to have the shape of a razor with several prongs. When fired, it zig zags at the enemy instead of firing in a straight line. While charging speed is the same as Cero, firing speed is three times that of Cero, and the actual destruction potential is twice the user's reiatsu strength.

Furthermore, the explosive power is so high that not even several Cero put together can rival it. This technique also releases a large mass of lightning and electricity not only upon firing, but on impact as well. The ferocity of the Gran Rey Cero is nearly unrivaled.

How to use technique:

Fire like a regular Cero, but only after also getting blood on the firing hand from its user. This is usable only by Espada. The secret to its use and why only Espada can use it are both unknown at this present time.

Technique Drawbacks

400 reiatsu cost and blood sacrifice. Can only be fired once per post, up to four times a day.

Ailene Yersinia - 75

[Deleted]

Chuckling as they heard the faint "Damn it!" come from inside of the lightless cube, Orobas took the time to go over everything that Ailene had said mentally. Naturally, it came to no surprise to Orobas that Akki had been able to make use of Kido; they'd been doing it their whole life as a being of hell, and weren't going to be stopping any time soon. Though, one thing they did make note of is the fact that they were incredibly impressed with the girl's ability to pick apart the Kido that they'd used just a moment ago. She seemed to be rather well-versed in Kido in her sealed state, though how was she going to do while released? Was that mastery and knowledge going to be for naught?

Within a few moments, they quickly realized that there was some sort of burst in reiatsu from inside of the cube. The girl had released. Though, that didn't seem to be it; she was charging something up. There was no way they couldn't feel that from inside the cube as it began to condense and was eventually launched into the side of the cube. As the wave of reiatsu began to launch through the walls and blast a decently-sized hole through the spell, Orobas watched in interest as they began to wonder just what this girl was capable of. Surely they'd have to up the game just a bit, but was that truly going to be the best bet against her? Would she be able to handle it?

As what was once the girl was now standing outside of the now-dissipating spell in all of her draconic glory, Orobas simply chuckled to themselves. "I've got to say, Ailene," they said with a smirk, "I'm very impressed with your ability to stand against something like that. Though, Gran Rey Cero, I never expected a technique as... simple, as that to be able to blast straight through one of my stronger spells with that much... ease. I suppose I underestimated you. My apologies for doing so; I can promise it won't happen again." The last of Orobas' words rang out in what would've likely been picked up as anger; not necessarily at the girl, but at themselves.

Before they took the time to listen to the girl's fragmented words, Orobas was once again hopping between reality in order to close the distance between them and the girl. They weren't going to give her an opportunity to do so much as react if they could help it. Looking to appear directly in front of the girl, Orobas quickly prepped a Kido with not a mental incantation, but without one at all. They felt they didn't need it, and taking even so much as a second or two in order to speak that mentally was nothing more than a waste of time that they didn't have. The Kido they had activated was Hado #18: Kage no Kiba.

With Kage no Kiba, what were effectively claws manifested of pure darkness had been created in their free hand on each fingertip, leaving them with a desire to rake across the girl's freshly-released maw with as much force and speed behind the strength as they could potentially muster. Though, if she'd been familiar with the technique, she'd be able to take notice of the fact that these claws, while normally being used as a projectile, didn't actually fire off from their fingertips. Instead, they continued burning across his skin, as his entire right arm seemed to be flexed; it certainly wasn't a fun feeling to deal with, but it was tolerable to a point where they could keep it going for a bit.

Taking a quick jump back after the strike, Orobas went straight into the casting of yet another spell. This time, Mabarashi Dangan, Hado #50. Holding their now clawed hand out toward the girl's face once more, Orobas launched a nigh-invisible cannon of pressurized reiatsu straight toward her. They weren't going to give her a second to breathe, and wanted to make that known where they could. If she hadn't gotten out of the way, the Kido likely would've blown straight through her, possessing a piercing force of upwards of 3,000. They weren't going to increase that quite yet; not until getting a feel for what the girl was capable of.

[Ailene Haschiro]

Having used her Resurrecciòn, the Espada stood before Orobas in her draconic glory. She was truly a sight to behold. The dark and purple eyes fixated upon Orobas as they gleamed with malice. Before going in for any strikes, Ailene needed to study her opponent. To note any particular strengths or weaknesses. This was one of Ailene's most defining qualities. Expressing an almost chilling calm in battle. A patience that allowed her to study and stalk. To gather the information she needed before striking with lethal intent. A predator need only strike once if it slays the prey its been hunting. Ailene growled softly as she reeled back and released a shriek of sorts.

This shriek could only be compared to the sound of desperate wails. As if hundreds were moaning in agony. To most, this would be chilling. Perhaps even distracting. Though Orobas seemed similar to Ailene when she utilized her Resurrecciòn. A blackened soul with an understanding of how to combat such anxiety inducing noises. In fact, if Orobas were to get a read on Ailene's aura it would have almost changed entirely. While formerly, Ailene could be sensed as being capable of both right and wrong actions, the Espada now gave off an aura that felt cold. Malicious. It was nearing Orobas' as the good in Ailene's soul became utterly suppressed under the killer instinct. 

As Ailene continued to look upon the Akki, she heard him speak. "I've got to say, Ailene, I'm very impressed with your ability to stand against something like that. Though, Gran Rey Cero, I never expected a technique as... simple, as that to be able to blast straight through one of my stronger spells with that much... ease. I suppose I underestimated you. My apologies for doing so; I can promise it won't happen again." Still retaining enough of her sanity to comprehend this statement, the Espada lifted her head in a very regal manner. It was almost as if she was feeling pride at the Akki's praise. The beast growled in an approving manner before Orobas disappeared from sigh again. 

Her heightened animalistic instincts put the Espada on high alert almost immediately. Within mere moments the Akki would be upon Ailene. Suddenly, demonstrating more fine reiatsu control, the Akki manifested it along his hand. The reiatsu formed into what appeared to be talons. They were none to different from Ailene's own. As the strike at her maw was arriving, Ailene's instincts told her to move. To counterattack and retaliate. Unfortunately, the Espada also knew that her speed had not quite returned to her. It was difficult to see the Akki's movements, let alone match its speed. Even with her heightened Hierro, the claw made its mark.

As the shadow-like reiatsu made contacted with Ailene's iron-clad skin, the claw itself had little trouble raking across Ailene's flesh. As the pain settled in, a bleeding gash across the front of the Espada's maw, Ailene found herself tolerating it quite well. Her countless centuries of experience have made her accustomed to pain. Using some of the force behind the blow dealt to her, the beast leapt backward as Orobas seemed to match her movements. With a soft growl, Ailene brought her talon up to her maw. As the blood stained the talents, the Espada grinned. Perhaps this could prove useful later. Unfortunately it seemed that Orobas was not done with his assault. 

As Orobas raised his hand to unleash the Hado, something seemed off to Ailene. Many beasts and warriors alike relied on sound cues and sight to recognize oncoming threats. This attack would be unrecognizable to Ailene as the Espada could not see nor hear the attack coming. Suddenly, a blast of reiatsu barreled into her, knocking her back a bit. Then to add insult to injury, the blast itself detonated into what felt like spiritiual shrapnel. Once again, piercing her Hierro, the the shrapnel was small and numerous. The Espada groaned softly as she slowly began to recover from the vicious attack. Her groan soon became a growl as her eyes focused on Orobas once more. 

She was bleeding across her entire body and the Espada knew that she needed to stall for time. She needed some way to allow herself to regain her hidden strength. She also felt that she needed to go onto the offensive. After all, the Akki had dealt two heavy blows to her. It was time that Ailene returned the favor. She was the Septima Espada. One of the strongest Arrancar in Hueco Mundo! She needed to prove that she had a bite to match her bark. Suddenly, the Espada would dissapear much like the Akki before her. Ailene recognized that the Akki's ability to move was very flashy. Ailene was not going to demonstrate a similar flashiness. 

Orobas would no doubt recognize this as a Sonido. There was one distinct difference though. A regular Sonido had a distinct sound. The kind that Ailene was using, a variation upon the regular Sonido masked the footprint of the Espada's enhanced movement almost flawlessly. In fact, in his current state, Orobas would have no way to tell just where Ailene had disappeared to. The Espada, likely recognizing this, was moving at 1200 speed not behind Orobas. Not before him. She was instead above him, moving gracefully with the air without much sound. As she opened her maw, she would utilize one of her favorite techniques. If this hit, Orobas would be in for a world of hurt.

From the beast's maw, a stream of electricity would begin to erupt. It would shoot outward without any warning. A stream of electricity around the size of a Bala, Ailene also generated a platform of reiatsu beneath her feet. Stopping in midair at a sharp 90 degree angle, she was in the perfect vantage point to start blasting the Akki with the Cero Lightning. Moving at a speed of almost three times a Cero and with little warning, Orobas may find it difficult to react. If he was struck, the electricity would wash across his body, electrocuting him. Despite the differential in power, the Cero Lightning was a brutal technique. Only those with an ability to tolerate extreme pain could resist its power. If struck, Orobas may find the pain overwhelming as numerous blisters would break out across his flesh. He may have found himself being brought to his knees from the excruciating agony. Ailene would not stop. If Orobas was hit, she would continue the stream until the Akki was hopefully nothing, but ash.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sin Sonido}Technique Name: Sin Sonido

Class: 4

Technique Type: Hollow/Arrancar

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects:
Sin Sonido is the next stage of Sonido evolution, which was developed by Marcelius after countless examination of spirtual particles resisting the flow of spiritual beings through Hueco Mundo's dense atmosphere. Using the principles of Reiatsu-infused movements, introduced by Sonido, this technique uses a larger supply of Reiatsu to enhance every aspect of it's predecessor. Not only does the Reiatsu used allow for faster travel, but it also reduces all drag and impedance of spiritual particle resistance. Where Sonido filled the muscles with energy needed to heighten the user's speed, Sin Sonido additionally coats the user in Reiatsu. With this internal and external building of Reiatsu, the user will figuratively meld with the world around them as they burst with sudden speed. The density of the surrounding particles is of no consequence, as this technique was designed for Hueco Mundo's tremendously dense environment. The same density that forced Arrancar to improve Sonido's design over the Shinigami Shunpo has further enhanced this technique to a higher quality. In atmospheres with less density in spiritual particles, the task is all the simpler to accomplish and control.

The result is a reduced spiritual resistances means less of a footprint. It is possible for masters of Sin Sonido to travel so suddenly and so flawlessly, that they simply materialize at their intended destination. Even wild animals cannot interpret such a flawless transition. After all, this is a Predator's tool. Sin Sonido has also prove more difficult to react against, this is a forced psychological effect due to the techniques bizarre, traceless nature. Truly, this is a most fearsome technique... but is only recommended for practitioners of considerable skill. Once a soul can learn to use it with maturity, a Sonido without sound can prove a most deadly addition to an arsenal.

Sin Sonido increases the user's speed by x10. Observers with Senses beneath 400 cannot hear the beginning or completion of this technique. Observers with Senses of 400 or greater can detect the signature Sonido noise. Observers with Instincts beneath 200 cannot track the movement or arrival of this technique, though they may still prepare counters. Observers with Instincts of 200 and above are unaffected.

How to use technique: Using Sin Sonido is exactly the same as using Sonido.

Technique Drawbacks

The user of this technique must have Sonido mastered. Sin Sonido moves slower than typical Sonido, to avoid unnecessary noise Sin Sonido also costs more Reiatsu than typical Sonido to accommodate the atmospheric blending.

Cost: 150 Reiatsu

Made By: Marcelius Despres

Reserved: No

SPOILER: Click to show

{Advanced Air Platform}Technique Name:Advanced Air Platform

Class: 8-6

Technique Type : General Technique

Usable By (Technique is available to which races?): Any

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects : This technique is based on the ability of various races to create reishi platforms in midair. This Technique is so simple and uncomplicated that even the most simple of brutes and lunatics can perform this ability flawlessly. However as time goes on, this technique however has a very deep history as to how it came to be so widespread, and also a much more progressive means of it's use.

Class 8: The Most simple and fundamental technique. This is simply the formation of platforms under the feet to form an artificial plane off of which to maneuver. This technique uses so little energy that it has almost no cost (25 reiatsu allows 3 steps at learned, 5 steps at profficient, and 7 steps on Mastery at this class). The user can only create horizontal steps exactly the side of the foot, and at this class can only do this thrice per post, either to run along this newmade surface, or to increase or decrease altitude.

Class 7: Advancement. Still ridiculously simple, this level of the technique does take some reiatsu. At 25 Reiatsu cost, the user can create a pair of constantly generating platforms under their feet which lasts the entire post, however at this class the techique is still limited to at least a general downward direction and cannot rise to an angle more than 65 Degrees upward from a flat surface.
This changes at class 6, at which point pannels can be created even at a 90 degree angle. Additionally, the panels can be created at any point in the body allowing one to push off with any limb and even slide along one's back, allowing a powerful boost in mobility. Cost increases to 50 per post.


How to use technique: The user focuses their spirit energy, creating platforms and surfaces.

Technique Drawbacks Reiatsu Cost.

Made By: N/A

Reserved? (Yes/No): No

SPOILER: Click to show

{Cero Lightning - 1250 RS}Technique Name: [Cero Lightning]

Class: [3]

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

Usable By (Technique is available to which races?): [Arrancar]

Technique Element: [Lightning]

Technique Description and Effects: [Cero Lightning is one of the most advanced, forms of a Cero. While it does not provide the stunning raw power of the higher class Cero, it is nonetheless a formidable weapon and also can be adapted to multiple purposes in battle, or out of battle.

When used, instead of the blast of energy most Cero produce, Cero Lightning creates crackling bolts of lightning to expel from the user in the direction they have aimed. While not as fast as a Bala, this technique requires no charge time, unlike normal Cero, and is three times as fast as a normal Cero. Like Shoji Cero, this technique can be extended for longer durations, and a user can employ a single use of this technique for up to two posts (including the post they used it). When unleashing this Cero at full power it is capable of burning targets with half or less RS than the user to ash instantly. In fact, even those that have equal reiatsu strength to the user can be burnt to ash if they are exposed to a full power blast for two consecutive posts. Even if a target is too strong to outright destroy with this power, it causes serious burns and blisters across the target’s form, and creates immense pain and electric shocks to cascade across their body, requiring a Pain Tolerance of 2 (or equivalent) to withstand, else the target will crumple in a heap, incapacitated by the pain and electrocution.

There is one other incredibly useful trait to this Cero. The user possesses complete and utter control over its power and form. The user can unleash concentrated, killing bursts of this power to annihilate the opponent, or they can create massive arcs of lightning to ensure that the opponent cannot dodge. The user is freely able to adjust the power of this technique on a 1:1 ratio with size. That is to say, if the user halves the power of the technique, they will double the space the technique covers, and so on and so forth. Naturally, because the user is lessening the power, it makes this technique easier to resist, but compensates by making it much harder to avoid. The amount of space this attack covers at full power is comparable to that of the user’s bala.]

How to use technique (How is it activated?): [Although this technique is a Cero move, it is used much more like a Bala.]

Technique Drawbacks (Limitations, repercussions for use, etc)

[If one possesses a reiatsu strength that is 50% greater than the user, then they can resist the effects of the pain, getting away with minimal injuries, or even, if their reiatsu strength is double the user’s, being completely unharmed. Individuals with a Pain Tolerance of 2 can ignore the agonizing pain, though it will still be present, and continue to fight, only suffering the weakness of their injuries. Individuals with a Pain Tolerance of 3 (or greater) can outright push through the Cero, and be relatively unimpeded by it, if they are strong enough to survive it, minus the injuries they would receive from it. It has the standard cost of a Class 3 technique. Using this technique for more than a post fatigues the user greatly. The fatigue is intense enough that the user cannot maintain a single use of Cero Lightning for more than two posts.

The use of this technique causes slight burns to form on the bodypart using the power, which will steadily worsen with repeated use. These burns cannot be healed by High Speed Regeneration, or other immediate healing techniques and must either heal on their own, or be treated post-battle. Repeated use will cause these burns to worsen, and if a single limb uses them enough (ie. Over ten times in a single thread), the limb will burn away into ash.

Made By: Col Arana

Ailene Yersinia - 155

[Deleted]

As they took their step back and launched a rather powerful burst of pure reiatsu through the air at the bestial girl, Orobas watched in content as she seemed to take a few motions backward as well. She'd been trying to clear a bit of distance from them; did she think they were going to fight solely in melee distance? It was hard to say, but surely that couldn't have been her thought process; she was definitely smarter than that, even if she was acting mostly on impulse now.

As they cleared their own distance and took a second to recuperate, they watched the girl intently. Thus far, she'd made very little offensive action against them. Sure, the fight had only just begun, but surely she'd been ready to launch something at them, no? Surely there'd be some kind of attack coming their way relatively soon, and they'd need to do what they could to defend against it if possible. Unsurprisingly enough, their hunch had been brought into reality when Ailene vanished from sight with a Sonido.

Though, this Sonido seemed to be very out of the ordinary; there'd been no noise, no queues as to where she was, nothing. They hadn't been able to pick up on her reiatsu signature much at all the moment she was gone, and they weren't going to take the time in order to try to find her when an attack was practically expected. Slamming their hands together, Orobas mentally casted a rather defensive Hado; Houkou Karasu. The very moment they did, winds began to circulate around them at tremendously high speeds as they kept themselves absolutely still.

Much to their surprise and ultimately enjoyment, Ailene had prepared to attack with a stream of lightning; their technique had been prepared to deal with it. As the lightning made contact with the furious winds now circulating around the Akki, it was immediately dissipated, giving them a defensive field for a few short seconds; fifteen, to be precise. They'd have fifteen seconds to count down, and prepare themselves for a split-second plan of action against the girl.

The very second the wind began to launch outward, the Akki wasted no time. They'd vanished from sight once more thanks to Placidus, and positioned themselves to teleport above the Espada; much like she'd tried to do to them just a moment before. With a smirk on their face, they held out a hand to the girl and prepared to cast another spell; this time, Denryuu Doki, conjuring and simultaneously firing off a spear of raw electricity straight toward the dragon.

As that was fired, and they began to gain momentum due to the lack of being able to form an Air Ground, they tilted their body to miss the girl on impact. However, should that spear have come in contact with the girl, a rather large sphere of electricity was likely to explode around the girl, bombarding her with burns and shocks across her entire form. Sure, it wasn't a guarantee that the hit was going to land, but something like that was certainly on the formidable side.

As they landed on the ground, they kept their eyes focused on the sphere of electricity that quickly began to dissipate after four seconds. With a smirk on their face, they simply began to speak once more. "Well, Ailene, you've certainly got an interesting lightning attack up your sleeve, that much was for sure; too bad I've also got my own. Here's to hoping you don't fry, I'm looking forward to continuing this fight between us."

SPOILER: Click to show

{Houkou Karasu - 1,500 OS}Technique Name: [Hado #69: Houkou Karasu (Crow's Shriek)]

Class: 3

Technique Type: Kido

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects:

As the Kidou activates, strong winds will begin to swirl around the caster, catching objects and projectiles. If the enemy's Reiastu Strength is 100 or less than the caster's, then the enemy's reiastu-based attacks will be dissipated in the raging winds. The thing that is offset is that while the winds are raging where the kidou is being cast will, the area will become virtually silent. After fifteen seconds the winds will blow outward on all sides, even above and below the caster in a no blind spot blast around them. The winds whip forward at speeds of 150 miles an hour. A side effect of the attack is that when the winds are unleashed, the winds will howl furiously. It will break the concentration of anyone with senses of 150+, and will shatter the ear drums of anyone with senses around 300.

How to use technique:

Simply state the kidou and stay still, It is absolutely imperative you stay still as moving into the path of the winds will slice deep gashes into the body.

Technique Drawbacks:

The same effect that will damage the enemy's senses also will damage the caster's senses, and even the caster's ally's senses. The caster also can not move, as the winds that are formed move fast enough to dissipate hardened reiastu, they can and will leave deep gashes on the body.

Incantation and Effect:

Incantation doubles the speed of the technique. ("It will descend, it will abscend, it will up-end. The end is coming, the word has fallen, the night has laid its toll. The clock spells midnight and the doom spells time, and the end will soon arrive. Worry not, little pigeon. Worry not, my minx, or my slave, or my wife, or my children. Worry not at all. You will not hear it coming. None of you will hear a thing.")

SPOILER: Click to show

{Denryuu Doki - 1,500 OS}Technique Name: [Hado #53: Denryuu Doki (Current Wrath)]

Class: 4

Technique Type: Kido

Technique Element: Lightning

Technique Description and Effects:

The use of this Hado creates a spear of crackling yellow energy in the users hand. Upon being thrown, the spear streaks towards the target. Should the spear come into contact with something, another Kidou, Cero, etc, it expands into an electric field in the form of a sphere or a dome, depending on where it hits (I.E hits in the air it becomes a sphere, hits on the ground and it becomes a dome). Whatever becomes trapped within this field is assaulted by electricity. Lasts for four seconds before dissipating.

How to use technique:

Call the name of the Kido out, throw the spear at the intended target.

Technique Drawbacks

Use of this technique causes a bit of the lightning to shock the users hand, causing first degree burns. The hand using the Hado becomes unable to move due to numbness. Reitsu usage.

Incantation and Effect:

25% increase to the reiatsu strength of the technique. (I.E. Reiatsu worth 100 is instead worth 125.) ("Broken axel of the throne of kings, inscribe upon the heavens your sorrowful cry! Beckoning, enchanting, haunting, from the angry clouds of the sky, let loose your rampage of terror!")