Eye of the Storm, Non-canon story JT

[Ludwig Verrlicht]

Plotline:

In this story you, the RP'er, are brough to a lovely shrine off the coast of god knows where. Between the flying manta rays of death, the storm that is more akin to a goddamn maelstrom and the seemingly endless skeletons that keep spawning from within, this place is the perfect for those who have absolutely anywhere better to be but chose this.

One way or another you washed your sorry self onto this godforsaken island only to find that not only are you at the top of it but that there's seemingly no means of leaving. Well unless you like jumping from several hundred feet down into a maelstrom. Obviously you need to go deeper within to attempt to calm the storm as it's anything but natural. However between constantly reanimating skeletons and flying fish it's harder than you'd expect. Let alone the various traps and the storm itself fighting you from making progress. And that's not even mentioning the strange cult this shrine was dedicated to, some sort of storm god. With all this jam-packed into one shrine it's one hell of a vacation to have. And one you most certainly didn't want.

Let's be blunt I'm trying my hand at another Demon Soul's theme'd adventure. Albiet smaller and one on one. The user is going to deal with the Shrine of Storms not to mention the friendly undead and angry fish things. All the while attempting to find a means back to the world. And good luck if you think swimming will help you. Win and surivive or lose and hope death is the end of your suffering. Same as the old Souls formula with a few twists here and there. -


Estimated Enemy Strength:

This depends on the area.

The starting area (2-1) will deal with enemies that about class 4 to a couple class 3 creatures. The boss for it will be class 2.

The intermediate area (2-2) will have class 3 enemies predominantly with a few class 2 enemies sprinkled around. The boss is going to be class 1.

The last area (2-3) deals simply with the final boss and is expected to a hard won fight. Class is 1-0 with the works.

This can be lowered if the participant is on the lower end of the accepted class range.


Starts: It should be starting in about 2-3 weeks. Gotta finish up some stuff on my end. Assuming of course there is a willing participant.


Special Conditions:

Ok so there are a few!

1. Step techs limited to twice a post max and can only go a maximum of 5 feet.

2. Air ground does not exist. If the user can't fly via a tech or some inherent ability, or cannot create constructs the user cannot remain suspended in the air.

3. Upon killing a boss the RPC will be refreshed in all manner. Physical health, reiatsu, stamin, and extra resources such as. Stamina posts, times they can release, ability cooldowns, etc.

4. Characters have 2 extra lives. If they die 3 times the thread is considered finished but failed. These will not be regained upon killing a boss.

[Ailene Haschiro]

"Islands, skeletons and cults, oh my. How could I resist"

[Ludwig Verrlicht]

And here I thought you'd like the last one the most. Fair enough slots yours.

[Ludwig Verrlicht]

The day had finally arrived on board the S.S. Constantine, the day in which they would finally travel to the Bermuda Triangle. Ailene had just a week prior been given an order, by Lord Kouhai no less, to attend the voyage this boat was embarking upon. This boat was doing what many other boats feared to do and considered wholely foolhardy. Sail directly into the Bermuda Triangle and figure out just what was within. For the past several months the Bermuda had been releasing a curious "reiatsu signature" if you could even call the energy that came into existence "reiatsu". Truthfully it was anything but reiatsu and certainly not of this world.

However Lord Kouhai wasn't a man to just send people to a "legendary place of evil" simply because of a rumor or local myths about what occured there. Hell in the past the Soul Society had found out that while yes it was yet another highly dense spiritual energy domain it wasn't anything more abnormal than Karakura was. And therefore wasn't worth anyone's time to investigate any further. That was, however, until a few months ago when a perpetual storm brewed, the likes of which even the humans had taken notice of. Their advanced satelites making short of detecting it and pinning down just where the heart of the storm was. But even that wouldn't have been enough to warrant Kouhai's attention. What did however was one single thing. Something so astronomically ridiculous that there was no concievable way it was a simple rumor or falsehood.

Within the storm was an energy source the likes of which couldn't be found in any other plane of existence. But even more curiously was a beast that did not exist in any other plane. Something beastial and curiously enough almost hollow like. Being the lord of Hueco Mundo and by definition the lord of hollows and arrancar alike there was no reason that Kouhai should not have this beast at his beck and call. Especially if said beast was generating this storm and energy that had baffled every major organization in existence.

Thus Ailene was chosen and promptly sent on her way to the Constantine. A few strings pulled and a couple of "necessary" crew members mysteriously dissappearing and Ailene had her in as a meterologist. Fast forward a week and the day started off like any other. Calm seas. deep blue in hue and with nary a cloud in the sky Ailene could have been convinced that they were headed in the wrong direction to begin with given the "Eternal Storm" as it had been dubbed by the crew was seemingly non-existant and what storms they had interacted with were definitely not "eternal". Thus with the gentle rock of the ship, the smell of salt in the air, and the unapologetically bad food it was a typical day on the ocean.

This typical day however wouldn't last. Come midday the clouds started to roll in. Dark gray, erring on black the deeper one looked into the oncoming storm, with rain thick enough that it wss hard to tell if the ocean wasn't simply splashing water around or if the sky really was just pouring down another ocean. The waves quickly followed the the path of the storm and before Ailene couldn't even begin to try and "do her job" as the ship was already getting jostled around from waves as big as the ship itself going in every direction. This was simply the storm at the edges. The ship would very soon find out that there were infinitely worse dangers that the storm posed. The biggest being the monster Ailene was sent learn about and capture if at all possible. Or worst case kill if she couldn't get it under control.

The ship foolishly sailed further into the storm. Attempting to weather yet bigger waves, eventually having to fight waves that nearly doubled the size of the ship. The only comparison that could be made was the ship being akin to a leaf in the breeze. No control as to where it was going and slaming into everything it possibly could along the way. It was more of a miracle that the closer they got to the storms heart that no individual aboard the ship had been thrown overboard. But the ship was caving the more it got slammed by the waves. Battered by rain that was akin to spears of water being thrown violently onto the ship. And even getting unerringly close to being struck by lightning bolts which sent only minor shocks to the boat itself as opposed to cleaving through it.

It was all for naught though. The ship would sink, but not from the storm. No the beast itself hidden amongst the clouds had spied the little boat and curiously watched it be thrown around by it's storm. If such a beast could be amused then that must have been what it felt however that faded quickly and with the ship having not sunk to nature alone it decided to intervene on nature's behalf. With a great lashing of it's tail the ship was ripped apart straight through it's midsection horizontally. Akin to a hot knife through butter the ship didn't stand a chance and to Ailene's horror she was inevitably going down with the ship. Try as she might, with whatever techniques at her disposal she would ultimately find herself sinking beneath the waves. And finally being drawn into the dark depths below.

When Ailene would finally come to she'd find herself at the heart of the storm but not in the waves she'd fallen into. Not even on another fool hardy ship. Instead she'd find herself on an island, her particular section high into the air and clear from the violent waves far below. Waves that even now seemed to batter and attack the jagged rocks below. She would still find herself drenched to the bone, smelling of salt and now mud given the ground before her was soft and moist from the constant light rain. Before her the remains of a shrine, long since forgotten, long since weathered, and somehow with torches and small bonfires lit despite the apparent storm. The entrance was mostly the broken remains of a wall with but a single skeleton fused to silver amor at the entrance some 100 feet away.

The sky was noticeably lighter and lighting still danced across. The wind raged and made the rain feel like pins and needles but was nothing compared to the earlier storm she'd experienced on the boat. The beast and it's great tail were long since gone. And it's unearthly cry still echoing in her mind. She hadn't gotten a good look at it. Only knowing that somewhere within the storm the beast flew with it's impossibly long tail. But if there was one small blessing to be had it was that Ailene's weapon though it laid a few feet before her was still present. Any other items she may have brought however, were long since consumed by the sea. Only her weapon and whatever was on her person was present. It was all she'd have at her disposal for what lay before her.


OOC: So I'm starting this early because fuck it I can. And like I told Paste in their adventure thread you have a gimmick. Yours is enviromental hazards and constant reanimating of enemies. The storm will be something you have to fight so long as you are outside. While within a structure you will be immune to these effects. As for the ressurecting enemies, barring mini-bosses every enemy will respawn within 2-3 posts depending on where you are within this thread. I'll be keeping a counter to let you know when the enemies you face will come back. However there is one weapon that will in fact keep most of what you'll fight permenantly dead. Find the weapon and this gimmick will be effectively null and void.

[Ailene Haschiro]

Stepping onto the boat, Ailene was nothing short of excited. She of course knew her mission, but the prospect of getting to study meteorology even if it was just a cover was intriguing to her. Before setting out on this mission gifted to her by the very Lord that ruled over her and the other Arrancar in Hueco Mundo, Ailene spent the days preparing. Reading books on celestial bodies and meteorites to get an idea of what she was getting herself into. After all, she wanted to play the part. Continuing to wear her modified Espada robes, Ailene appeared like a scholar as she carried a satchel on her hip that contained a selection of references that she could consult.

Of course she knew what her mission was, but the Espada could certainly get something out of this. She was inquisitive. A gifted study. A scholar. She enjoyed learning more and this would provide an opportunity to delve into a field that was exciting. The boat was readying to leave the dock, Ailene could feel the spray of the water. The smell of salt. The sound of birds above. She had to admit. This was her first time on a ship, but it was already proving to be exhilarating. Exposure to all these stimuli encouraged her to enjoy this even further. After all, it was likely that there would be serious business to attend to later. For now, however, she simply sat down as she leaned against the side of the boat, cracking her book open. 

As some time passed and they were nearing their destination in the Bermuda Triangle, Ailene could feel a shift in the air around them. Not that she was feeling a beast. No. Instead she was an astute observer of her surroundings. Analytical to a fault. It did not take a genius to realize that a storm was brewing. The prospect of a storm was concerning, but not terribly troubling to Ailene. After all, she could create stable footing if she needed. Or at least so she thought. They ship recklessly sailed further into the approaching storm despite the creaking, high winds and rain that they were experiencing. Rather turbulent conditions for any voyage and most precarious. 

Soon disaster would strike. Waves double the ships size. Winds that threatened to tear skin from bone. The roar of lightning that almost deafened Ailene. It all felt almost insurmountable. Was this truly the power of the beast that she had to learn about? Was this a force of nature? Ailene was not sure. As the hull of the ship suffered holes from the battering of the waves and overall assault of the storm, Ailene could sense that she may soon meet a watery grave if she went down with the ship. The Arrancar would out of reflex attempt to create an air-ground as she leapt up about two feet into the air in an attempt to create stable footing. She was proficient in creating them. This would be no different. Right?

Unfortunately as Ailene was prepared for her feet to meet the safety of a platform of reiatsu she fell onto her back. Groaning and coughing she frantically looked around. Crewmen being washed off without a trace. Lightning threatening to strike the deck and electrocute the first unfortunate soul on sight. It was then that Ailene realized. They had riled the beast. They were in its territory, threatening to be consumed by its power. As the ship started sinking, Ailene had very little capability for stabilizing herself. Falling into the cold and stormy water, Ailene looked up as she did her best to swim. To survive. The tides would seem to claim many that day and Ailene felt fear. Will this be her end? Her last thought before falling beneath the crushing waves as everyone went black in the depths of the ocean.

Finally. Ailene would open her eyes. Her eyes met a blue sky. Still angered and ruthless, but slightly tempered. The Espada felt groggy. That would be the best way to describe it. She attempted to get up, but did not budge. Her movements were stilted. With force and enough will Ailene would inevitably bring herself to sit up at least. Looking around she noted that she was just at the shoreline. She sighed and groaned. "Seems Lord Kouhai blesses me with luck after all. I am surprised to even still be alive.." As she lifted her arm, feeling the sand cling to it, she noticed how soaked she was. Yet another groan came from her lips as she scowled for a moment. 

After a few moments, the Espada noticed a few things. Her Zanpakutou washed up with her on shore a few feet away from her. Reaching over, the Espada grabbed it rather protectively as she looked at the sheath. No real damage. Thankfully. Ailene with a drawn-out sigh brought it to her hip to keep it there. More miraculously her satchel. It was still on her person. With glee she quickly opened it, but was met with horror. Her books. Ruined. Entire chapters ruined by the sea water. The scowl became a pout as she realized that she'd be forced to pick up more copies. Though that was neither here nor now. She had something to take care of. 

After a few moments the Espada rose to her feet. Immediately she regretted it. The very storm that still plagued the area. It felt like needles flying against her skin. Was her Hierro strong enough to protect her from the worst effects? She was not sure nor was she willing to take that chance. That's when she noticed it. A shrine. Normally Ailene tried to recognize all options. She wanted to be sure that her choice was the best. This time, however, she felt rushed. She couldn't stay out in the open like this lest she draw the attention of her quarry. Or perhaps even at this point she was the prey. With haste she would make her way to the entrance, eagerly seeking cover from the inclement weather that dared assault her in the open. 

As she reached the entrance, the Espada would notice the skeleton with a silver armor fused to the broken wall. "How peculiar." She thought. The Espada studied it to the best of her abilities. She had impressive deduction and analytical skills together with impressive medical knowledge. Perhaps they would come in useful here? She inspected the skeleton and armor. Any significant markings on the armor? The bones. Healthy? Weathered by time? Or even by the storm? Any information that she could gather. After gathering presumably all that she could, Ailene would make her way into the shine, oblivious to what wonders and dangers possibly awaited her. 

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats & Skills}Stats while Sealed
Strength - 40
Speed - 120
Spiritual Pressure - 300 
Reiatsu Strength - 400 
Light Aura - 50
Dark Aura - 50
Instinct - 250
Senses - 40
Energy Sensory - 20
Healing Expertise - 160

Stats while Released
Strength - 100 
Speed - 300 
Spiritual Pressure - 750
Reiatsu Strength - 1000
Light Aura - 0
Dark Aura - 100
Instinct - 375
Senses - 100 
Energy Sensory - 50
Healing Expertise - 400

Total SP: [1900 Points]

[Analyzing] [3]
[Calm Mind] [3]
[Cero Mastery] [3]
[Battle Analysis] [3]
[Pain Tolerance] [3]

[Ludwig Verrlicht]

Try as the storm might it wasn't currently strong enough to really be much of a hindrance to Ailene. The rain though feeling like pins and needles was just that rain drops. She'd be a bit on the cold side and the constant gusts of wind wouldn't make that any better but she'd be fine. Her heirro wasn't in any danger of being shredded by the storm. At least not in it's current iteration. Time would only tell just how bad it would get.

As Ailene walked to the entrance and looked over the remains she'd notice a couple things. 1. The skeleton's armor was clearly old but in surprisingly well maintained condition. Any scratches and other "damages" were so minor that they really wouldn't have made the armor any weaker. 2. It was even left with it's weapon, a Falchion that looked to be slick with water but otherwise untarnished. 3. The skeleton beneath the armor was actually a bit more than just that. It was akin to a mummy in how the flesh was dried and preserved before being fused to the armor. Every bone was easily seen and even the armor mimic'd some of the bone structure. Such as the ribcage was mimic'd for the torso.

However as Ailene was making her inspection she'd be in for a surprise as it's right arm swiftly reach up and grabbed her clothing to bring her into a headbutt. If she couldn't stop this she'd be reeling from the hit because helemt aside the skeleton had quite the strength behind it. With the surprise headbutt done the remainder of it would quickly get up, grabbing it's blade in the process and contort itself to roll away. It rolled about 10 feet backwards before turning and using the Falchion to as a tire chain so that it could cut through Ailene while it tried to run her over.

As if this wasn't enough though past the initial crumbling entrance Ailene may or may not see the pathway up to the main shrine. On this path was a tree at the base, roots covering the small boulder that it was growing over. And without any warning a bolt of lightning would strike at it and cause an incredibly loud crack of thunder from only 100 feet away. This would be the first sign that the storm was going to pick up but that was assuming Ailene even had the time to glance around and not focus on her undead combatant.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reference picture for the area}

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{Silver Skeleton Stats / skills}
Strength: 240 (300)
Speed: 300 (450)
RS: 50 (25)
SPPR: 50 (25)
Instinct: 200
Senses: 100
ES: 0
HE: 0

Skills:

Acrobatics: 2
Falchion: 2
Poison Resist: 4
Bleeding Tolerance: 4
Pain tolerance: 3

[Ailene Haschiro]

Ailene would take some time to properly examine this peculiar skeleton. After a few moments of scanning her eyes over the forgotten corpse and gathering as much information as she could, she marveled at its preservation. As both the flesh and its own armor had been preserved along with a weapon. Being a resident from Europe long ago and a scholar with a deep understanding of many things, Ailene recognized the weapon for what it was. A falchion. A blade with a single edge of European origin. It was certainly fascinating to analyze the remains of this corpse along with learning about the life it may have once lived. Unfortunately before she had time to pull away, Ailene would be in for a surprise. 

As the hand came up to grab hold of her clothing her animalistic insticts told her that an attack was coming. To pull away. Unfortunately for her she was, in her sealed state, too slow to effectively pull away from the oncoming headbutt, only having enough time to draw her Zanpakutou from its sheath. In fact, Ailene's head would be ringing for a moment as it came crashing against her with downright impressive strength. She would quickly regain her composure, but for a moment her vision was blurry. Clearly dazed she had to squint as she marveled at the corpses' almost unnatural agility. As it contorted its body to roll to the side and away from Ailene, her vision was slowly coming back to her. 

Ailene mused to herself. "Great. The dead rise and come to haunt the living. How ironic." The distance that it had created gave Ailene some information. For one it was rather nimble. She would need to be on her guard. She was not willing to test the fortitude of her Hierro after reeling against that physical blow. It was clearly faster than her so she needed to attempt to end this quickly. Normally Ailene would have qualms over needing to end a life. This was a unique scenario, however. Unprovoked and clearly reanimated by some greater force, Ailene sighed. Once again this mummy was attempting to go for yet another attack, but this one was for more unique.

Using its unnatural agility and nimble nature, it would seem to roll as her as the blade attempted to dice and shred her into pieces. This is where Ailene's animalistic instincts came into play. She would assume that this attack was rather fast yet linear. As the mummy came rolling at her Ailene would wait a moment before using a Sonido. As she did and amplified her speed to an impressive 1500 the Arrancar noticed something bizzare. While she was only intending to move a few feet forward and did so successfully, it felt as though her movement using the Sonido was stilted. She was already a master at moving using a Sonido. She knew its limitations well. Was it due to this environment?

Ailene would have little time to ponder as her Sonido attempted to carry her to the side of this skeleton. If she was successful in doing so she would prepare her next technique. A classic and favorite of hers. If there was one ability of the Arrancar that she had proficiency over more than most it was the Cero. Through centuries of experience she had effectively become so accustomed to the Cero that she could use it in unique ways. One of those was without the use of somatic components. The ball of burning reiatsu would form in front of her as she would simply attempt to char this mummy out of existence. She was not sure whether it was enough in her sealed state, but she had to try. Her Ceros even while sealed were rather potent after all. 

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reiatsu}
Cero - 200
Sonido - 100

Total Reiatsu: 2700/3000

[Ludwig Verrlicht]

For all the potency it's surprise attack had on Ailene it had been wasted by it rolling away so it could come charging after her. Between the fact the skeleton wasn't terribly bright and the fact it had never seen something akin to Sonido it had no chance of landing it's blade against Ailene. In fact when it "should" have come into contact with Ailene, only for her to disappear, it simply stopped propelling itself forward and stood there in shock. Thus allowing Ailene's cero to hit it from behind without any form of resistance. The skeleton hardly knew what was going on as it proceeded to be burnt to ashes.



What remained of the skeleton was it's hands, the top of it's skull, and it's ankles down. Its weapon also remained but looked tarnished with burn marks on it from the sheer heat radiated from Ailene's cero. However unlike any normal corpse the portions of the body that remained started to radiate a small black particle effect. If Ailene touched it she'd find nothing harmful about it and it was pure energy, although not reiatsu based as she may be used to. Instead this was "mana" based and seemed to be drawing from the very air around her not unlike a quincy would draw in reishi however the draw would be much smaller and much slower.



With nothing else to be gleaned, aside from possibly the revelation of "mana" being present as opposed to reiatsu and the finer details of what may be happening to the skeleton Ailene would be able to walk through the entrance structure and be greeted by a large set of stairs that lead higher up the cliffside hill to the main ruined structure. The right side of the stairway was a straight drop back to the waters below and the left side was another cliff that was about 15 feet tall from where she was currently standing. Whatever plant life was present was dead, dying, or in the case of the very large and present tree currently consuming a rock with it's roots, on fire.



To make matters worse however another set of skeletons, clad in silver armor began to rise up off the ground 60 feet ahead of Ailene. The specific spot was a large flat area about 20 feet in diameter with the second set of stairs continuing to the main structure's entrance on it's left side. On the right would be a skeletal archer armed with what was a longbow and arrows tipped in blue flames. The other two skeletons were the same as their compatriot Ailene had turned to ash. Clad in silver armor and with falchion's in their hands. However the first skeleton was already rolling down the stairs upon fully reanimating and was barrelling straight for her. At most it was about 30 feet away.



Meanwhile it's companion next to the archer was still in the process of coming to its senses and thus hadn't yet realized she was present. The archer at it's side however had it's "eyes", ethereal orbs, on Ailene. And had already fired an arrow and was mid notch for a second one. One curious detail that Ailene, if she watched the arrow, would realize that it was actually heading for her despite all the wind and rain unerringly. It wouldn't take but a mmoment to realize the arrows had potent tracking capabilities and dodging may not work quite in her favor with them.



Last but not least detail to note was the storm itself. The rain was starting to fall a bit harder, aided by the gusts slowly rising in power. In addition if she could spare a glance to the sky, despite her enemies coming for her, she'd realize that the sheet lightning was becoming more frequent. Every 20 secconds or so another bolt would go from one part of the storm to another. None of this would hinder or impact Ailene whatsoever at it's current stage of power but it promised the upcoming fury that Ailene had dealt with on her ship prior to her arrival. At best she had perhaps a couple minutes before it lashed out at her.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Corpse Counter}
Skeleton Warrior #1: 2 posts

SPOILER: Click to show

{Skeletal Archer stats/skills}
Strength: 100 (75)
Speed: 300 (225)
RS: 50
SPPR: 50
Instinct: 150 (225)
Senses: 200 (300)
ES: 150 (225)
HE: 0


Skills:

Poison Tolerance: 4
Pain Tolerance: 3
Bleeding Tolerance: 4
Archery: 2
Anti-Stealth: 2

[Ailene Haschiro]

Ailene's vision had turned purple for a moment. The coloration of the Cero overtake the space before her along with the skeleton almost completely. As the burning orb of reiatsu finished washing over its victim, Ailene sighed for a moment. The Espada looked at the ground as she noticed the smoldering remains of the skeleton. Sizzling pieces of its skull, ankles and hands were all that was left along with the charred remains of the falchion it once wielded. The battle with this one was finished allowing Ailene to relax even if only for a moment. As its remains lay on the ground, Ailene leaned down for a moment to inspect it. What she would find was fascinating.

The Arrancar of course knew the sensation of reiatsu. She tried to compare it to her own. To any other being she had touched with her spirit in the past. It felt anything unlike what she had once felt in others. Having nothing to compare it to, Ailene knew not what could possibly reanimate these denizens of the dead. Ailene began to mutter to herself. "What fuels you...what compels you strike out against me? Is it the beast that brings this tempest?" She naturally was not asking the skeleton, but instead talking to herself. For now she would leave these mysteries be. She needed to get a proper lay of the land. Besides. If this one reanimated itself, it stood to reason that there might be more awaiting her. 

Ailene proceeded to move through the rest of the large archway that seemed to lead further into this isle. Her eyes looked upon the sight before her. Two stairways with a large structure and a myriad of foliage. Unfortunately the foliage seemed besieged by death. Having used herbs in the past, Ailene could easily identify plantlife that was dying. Was it something biological like the disease that she produced? Or was it something supernatural? Some great evil force that could impose death? Ailene was not sure. She sighed before looking upon a tree. It seemed mighty except for the fact that it was on fire. This along intrigued Ailene due to the weather conditions.

The rain fell hard and despite her Hierro holding up well against it, she could easily assume that fire should not be this resilient to the downpour that was ensuing. Unfortunately it seemed that the Arrancar would have little time to ponder on it. Just as with the adversary she had felled before, the dead were rising once again. A set of three corpses. That platform that rose above her had a staircase that naturally lead up to it. Ailene may not have been an expert in the use of martial weapons, but she knew the advantage of altitude well. It was this advantage that would soon present itself to her adversaries as one of the skeletons that was akin to the one she fought before barreled down the stairs in an attempt to slice at her soon.

As one of the other skeletons drew its bow and shot an arrow true, the Espada knew that this would prove perilous. Despite the growing storm, the arrow was not impeded in its path or speed by the raging tempest that would no doubt grow. Having a keen instinct, Ailene knew how she would need to move to evade the arrow. Unfortunately her natural speed would likely not be enough to dodge the arrow. Realizing this, Ailene picked her targets carefully. Ailene's movements would shift in a minute way as the arrow flew. She would tilt somewhat as a Cero erupted from her feet. Simply a variety of one of Ailene's cero, she could concentrate it in her feet to rocket forward. 

Her goal was simple. First to avoid these arrows. Hopefully one Luna Paso Cero in a diagonal fashion would carry her far enough to avoid the arrow, but she would not stop her. Another Cero erupted from feet as she would rocket up and toward her adversaries. One final Luna Paso Cero would be used to attempt to rocket her just above the two skeletons who were rising, one of which was firing the volley of arrows at her. After these successive Cero's, Ailene would attempt to utilize yet another Cero. This one far more destructive. Ailene's hands would rise and point at the two skeletons who were hopefully still a few feet next to one another.

Suddenly Ailene's hand would unleash a viscous burst of lightning with little to no warning. This would be different, however. Normally the size of a bala, Ailene utilized the extremely fine control she had over the electricity. Every Arrancar who knew this technique could amplify its size, therefore decreasing its power. Ailene's was no different. Instead it was her mastery over the usage of Cero that would come into play. Normally the lightning would streak in a wild yet vicious manner. Ailene's seemed more controlled as she attempted to use its increased width and better control over the lightning itself to wrap glide elegantly along the bodies of these corpses. The result was yet to be seen, but Ailene was hoping that not only would it encompass both of them, but it would be strong enough to severely incapacitate or even send two of her adversaries back to the grave. Her hands continued to unleash this stream of lightning hopefully until they succumbed to the electricity.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reiatsu}
Luna Paso Cero [3x] - 150
Cero Lightning - 400

Total Reiatsu: 2150/3000

SPOILER: Click to show

{Luna Paso Cero}Technique Name: [Luna Paso Cero (Moon Step Zero)]

Class: [6]

Technique Type: [Hollow Technique]

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects:

A Cero expelled from the user's feet to propel them through the air. By controlling the power of the blast, the technique can vary. A powerful blast can cause the user to rocket upwards, but damages the ground they were standing on. By doing this repeatedly, the user can zigzag through the air. A weaker blast will merely cause the user to "hop", but if done repeatedly, the user can literally bounce on thin air, allowing them to cross gaps by bunny-hopping across them. And if the user is sent flying, they can merely hop down to the ground safely in the same way one would walk down stairs.

How to use technique:

Stated above.

Technique Drawbacks

Reiatsu cost.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Cero Lightning - 100 OS}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

[Ludwig Verrlicht]

Try as the skeletons might none of them could keep up with Ailene and her ceros. For one thing in life or in death they'd never seen anything akin to a cero. And unlike the former skeletal companion who had been incinerated they had no means of seeing this. This however did not mean that Ailene got away from the initial arrow unscathed. Between it's speed, her lack thereof, and it's ability to home in incredibly well it would land into her right shoulder. Thankfully for Ailene however she wouldn't get anywhere near the bone. Though her hierro was pierced it still mitigated the damage and only allow a quarter inch of the arrow head and it's searing blue flames in. Still if she didn't remove it the flames were going to spread and begin searing her more so she'd need to get rid of it asap.



Returning to the skeletons and their lack of ability to comprehend a cero; Ailene easily, very easily dodged out of the way of the barreling skeleton. To it's credit it tried to come after her but managed to ram itself into the cliff wall. Unironically cutting deep into the rock and being in an awkward position given it couldn't complete it's roll. The other two however try as they might to react in any meaningful way didn't get anywhere. The archer let loose another arrow but that was after the first cero-step and thus didn't have the time to redirect itself. Instead the arrow head landed into the cliff side like it's skeletal companions sword.



This lead to both being as vulnerable as could be when Ailene let loose a miniature lightning storm of her own. And to no one's surprise each of the skeletons were grappled in tendrils of violent purple electricity. Try as they might they couldn't move and were held still solely by the various convulsions of their bodies. Unfortunately though as Ailene let loose this miniature storm there were two very important things to note. First and foremost, the storm darkened immensely. What was once gray clouds that could be described as "angry" and "rolling" the clouds now were nearing pitch and looked furious and wild. Lightning bolts streaked around frequently with their accompanying bursts of thunder growing ever closer. Even more so as Ailene continued to generate her cero-lightning.



The second and arguably equally as important detail that Ailene would be hard pressed to realize was that 4 more skeletons would have begun to rise. All of which were directly behind her. Two were far off on the main entrance of the dilapidated structure. They both had arrows and had seen Ailene as she had launched herself into the air with her last cero. They were about 120 feet away. The closer two were about 40 feet away and were more falchion wielders. They were mid rising however so Ailene would need to figure out how to manage with the skeletal minions before her quickly if she didn't want to get attacked from her blind spot via 4 skeletons. And that was assuming the storm didn't get in the way of that. For the time being however all eyes were aimed at Ailene and watching her descend back to the ground as she continued to electrocute the skeletons on the lower portion of the stairway.

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{Arrow information I forgot to mention}
OS: 400

Speed: 500

Blue fire continues to burn upon contact with a living being. Burns grow worse every post it remains lodged. Starts at 1st degree.

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{Corpse Counter}
Skeleton Warrior #1: 1 post 

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{Current army of the dead}
3 skeletons being electrocuted by Ailene (1 archer, 2 warriors)

2 warrior skeletons rising up behind Ailene 40 feet away

2 archer skeletons rising up behind Ailene. 120 feet away and on the main entrance to the ruined chapel.

[Ailene Haschiro]

It seemed that Ailene's offensive was a resounding success. Well...partly...sorta? The skeletons that she was proceeding to electrocute with her Cero Lightning were at her mecy as they convulsed and twitched wildly from the display of purple lightning that was flowing all around them. The display was in its own way beautiful if the tendrils themselves were not incredibly painful to the touch. Yet as they danced along the bone of their victims, Ailene took note of one key thing. They were incapacitated, but clearly were not dying immediately. The electricity was clearly devastating, but it would require more focused effort to get the desired effect.

She would continue to press on. As the winds grew stronger, the rain fell harder and the thunder roared louder, Ailene knew that she was in a precarious situation. She was stuck between needing to find shelter soon and disposing of the foes before her. She could attempt to balance the two, but it was clear to her that she would likely suffer for it. For now she decided to press her offensive. An attempt to deal these foes before her a lethal blow. Unfortunately this required incredible focus. Focus that hardly allowed her to sense the presence of more undead rising behind her. To add on to it, it almost seemed that her own display of lightni g had an effect on the weather around as her it soured.

Ailene's assault upon these unfortunate vessels would continue. It would continue until they were ashen. She was quite adept at using the ability of Cero Lightning. She knew enough to safely assume that extended surges of this high-powered electricity would eventually rob these undead of the unholy life that was somehow given to them. Ailene would only stop once each and every immobilized skeleton before her was reduced to a pile of bones. One enough had been exerted to achieve that, Ailene stopped conducting her reiatsu to form the technique. This was not a flawless assault, however, as there would certainly be a price to pay for the Espada.

As she finished she felt a pain radiate within her shoulder. The Arrancar had medical knowledge rivaling, if not exceeding, the best nurses and doctors in the Human World. Using this she slowly lifted of her lightly sizzling and twitching hands to the wound. It had pierced her Hierro and was not very deep, but it burned. It burned like hell. The Espada would grit her teeth as she brought her fatigued hand as close to the head of the arrow as she could. Grabbing it firmly, she yelled as she made the attempt to remove the arrow. If she was successful she had no doubt that it would hurt. That she'd likely need to find some way later to treat the wound, but she had to try. Unfortunately this in combination with her earlier assault made it difficult to focus, let alone notice, on the rising undead behind her. The exertion of using Cero Lightning was great. Her breath was ragged for a few moments as she tried to compose herself.

[Ludwig Verrlicht]

Ailene would be sucessful in turning all the skeletons to ash. It had taken a bit longer than she had intended but for her patience was rewarded with three piles of dark grey ash that subsequently blew away moments later from the increased winds that blew past the area. By this point the black clouds were upon her and and the promised weather was finally coming in full swing. In moments several strikes of lightining flew from the sky down to the island. Thankfully the first couple were dragged away to the larger trees, dead or not for one reason or another they drew the intiail flurry of bolts to them. The next flurry would not be so kind.

To make matters worse however the skeleton Ailene had charred to nothing but a collection of body parts would have completely been reborn. And it was pissed. While it had no energy sensing capabilities whatsoever it was hard to not notice the bright purple lighting that had just incinerated it's allies to naught. Without a second thought it came barreling after Ailene just as it had prior rolling like a tired with chains. Except now fully expecting Ailene to dodge or fire out a cero and having a plan in place of if either happened. It'd simply roll onto it's legs and then jump up and try to slam its sword against her skull. Not incredible but definitely possible to accomplish so long as it paid attention to Ailene.

Speaking of skeletons however, Ailene now had 4 more companions to play with given all had finished raising up into their fully reanimated selves. The archers wasted no time in notching their arrows and begin letting loose thier first shots. Admittedly they were aimed at Ailene's back, dead center, so unless Ailene could destroy them or find some cover they'd very likely find their way into her spine. But such a task was only made that much harder by the addition of her two newest warrior skeletons. Each of which did what their freshly reanimated companion did. Barrel their way into Ailene and given Ailene was on a lower level, they were only that much quicker to come towards her given she was downhill.

All in all Ailene would need to come up with something quick. Between the arrows that would track her to the ends of the earth, 3 barreling warriors, one of which knew a couple moves she could pull, and the next knowledge of yet another flurry of lightning bolts coming her way she needed to get out of dodge and fast. Preferably 5 minutes prior. Her only advantage here was that 4 out of the 5 skeletons had no idea what they were dealing with. And had only seen Ailene turn their compatriots to ash via lightning. Sonido, cero, and anything else she hadn't yet used were still on the table for her to use to get an advantage on them for. 

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{Corpse Counter}
3 Skeletons turned to ash (2 warriors / 1 archer): 3 posts remaining

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{Soul dregs gained (forgot to give you these)}
+300 soul dregs (75 per Silver Skeleton killed)

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{Current number of undead buddies}
2 Archers 120 feet away

2 Warriors behind Ailene and about to roll their blades into her backside

1 reanimated warrior barreling to her from her front, will run her over if she doesn't dodge/attack

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{Lightning volley info}
OS: 800
Speed: 800
Number: 5 total per post

Will occur for the next 2 posts

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{Damage inflicted via the arrow}
First degree burn on Ailene's right shoulder spanning half an inch with a quarter inch wound

[Ailene Haschiro]

As the Esapda caught her breath from the exertion of Cero Lightning, Ailene was fairly pleased with the result. Numerous skeletons charred to ash. Though just as she was ready to laugh in victory, there would be quite the sound. Boom! Lightning struck, licking the bark of the trees with elemental fury. In some ways Ailene considered herself lucky. They could come careening towards her without a second thought. Perhaps Lord Kouhai's faith was with her after all. She would certainly need it as the unthinkable happened. A collection bones amidst the scattered piles of ash. It would rattle as it reformed into another of the falchion wielding adversaries that she had faced thus far. 

Already Ailene felt a taxation on her reiatsu reserves. As it rose she quickly sifted through her options to conserve her strength. The first of which was Resurrecciòn. It would likely serve her well though something told her that this was not the right decision. Perhaps some aspect of her instincts? She was not sure. The other was yet another vicious technique. Similiar to the Cero Lightning, but with it she could attempt to maintain her energy. As it reformed, Ailene concentrated her reiatsu. Her reiatsu would shape similarly as though she were manifesting a Cero. It utilized a similiar concept. This time, however, Ailene's arm began to form unique markings. 

From the shoulder onward, her arm would create repeating design of spider webs down the length of her limb. It would be red in color similar to that of flowing blood. As the dead came to strike at Ailene, its sword ready to come crashing down upon her head, the Espada executed yet another Sonido. Once again moving at a speed of 1560, Ailene would attempt to position herself behind the skeleton, facing it. If she did so without much resistance she would likely notice the other set of skeletons that had since risen from their graves. Two arrows ignited by a blue flame coming at her. Hopefully she could kill two birds with one stone as the markings on her arm likely began to change.

Hopefully now filled with a turquoise coloration, the technique itself would be ready. If it was so, Ailene would swiftly raise her arm towards the closest skeleton. While this was a Cero, it would be on a completely different scale from before. As she released the reiatsu stored in her arm, it would fire almost immediately. At least, this is how it seemed. If she was successful, the charging had already been completed as the markings formed on her arm. This was part of the true nature of Nunca Acabar Cero. It would seemingly be unleashed almost instantaneously. This would be a common yet erroneous assumption. If successful then the skeleton if it did not react in time nor move out of the way would be blasted by one of Ailene's Cero.

Unlike normally, however, this would not be it. The path before her would be filled with the vision of countless Cero that flew with a calming turquoise color. They would be never-ending, hopefully coming contact with the arrows and at minimum cancelling them out. The goal for Ailene was to use this Cero to its fullest. This seemingly endless stream of Cero's would continue as she kept her hand outstretched. If the arrows as well as the skeleton before her had been caught in the flurry of Cero's then Ailene would act. She would rise to her feet and begin running forward. While doing so, her arm still outstretched would begin sweeping from side to side.

This sweeping motion when combined with the hail of Cero's would be similiar to her clearing a room. Ailene hoped that this Cero in particular would be difficult to deal with for the skeletons as she tried to consume them in this hail of burning reiatsu. If even mostly successful, then Ailene would continue running on, looking for any semblance of shelter. If her foes had been eradicated by the endless stream then she would flex her arm and stop the flow of reiatsu as the markings effectively began to slowly lose their color and vanish. If needed then she would continue using this Cero to hopefully great effect as she continued to run in search of a sanctuary. She tried to make her way to any form of shelter from the storm. Whether it was a small structure or the large imposing structure in the distance. It did not matter to her.

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{Reiatsu}Sonido [1x] - 100
Nunca Acabar Cero - 400

Total Reiatsu - 1650/3000

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{Nunca Acabar Cero - 400 OS}Technique Name: [Shoji Cero (Nunca Acabar Cero) (Lit. Never Ending Cero)]

Class: [3]

Technique Type: [Hollow Technique]

Technique Element:

Technique Description and Effects:

This is a newly developed Cero that requires a blood sacrifice in the same way as a Gran Rey Cero. It is inevitably a weaker Cero than Gran Rey Cero, however the power lies not in the overall destructive capacity, but in the special ability itself. The Cero itself charges at a regular rate, but the charging looks odd. It begins as a lighting up of spider web designs around the entire firing arm. They form as glowing red markings across the arm, and the red is soon filled up by a turquoise color. The Cero seems to fire instantly, when in reality the charging is the color change of the spider web patterns. The Cero itself comes out all at once, the orb generating in under half a second. This means an enemy may not know that the technique is charging, and will be surprised. This can be used for stealth. But, that is not the main ability. The true power behind this Cero is infinite firing. Once fired, it does not end until the user dies, or wills its end. Even throughout multiple posts, people can keep this technique going. Once fired, it can fire continuously like an infinite laser. It can be used for destruction of multiple enemies or targets, or simply to weather away a defense until nothing is left.

How to use technique:

This can begin charging no matter what position the arm is in. However, to fire, it must be a straight out, extended position like a regular Cero. This is still a generally very vicious technique.

Drawback:

Same drawback as regular Cero. Beyond that, it has no drawback. Perhaps if the arm is severed of the Cero disrupted during charging, the explosion is massive, but other than that, nothing. This is just a regular Cero, though turquoise in color, that fires much longer.

Made by: [Kuroi Naito]

[Ludwig Verrlicht]

AS the storm continued to grow in it's fury the landscape darkened considerably. Enough that even being used to Hueco Mundo's land of perpetual dark would start to become comparable with only the ominious flames on the chapels front wall continuing to glow as well as the flames of the various tree's and from the initial broken wall Ailene had already walked through. This naturally made the skeletons and their bright sky blue eyes shine a bit easier in the dark and make sure if Ailene was even remotely facing thier direction she'd have an easy time finding them.



As far plans were concerned Ailene's would work well enough, initially. Her sonido let he dodge the newly reanimated skeleton despite its "grand plan" of waiting until right upon her to attack. From there however though Ailene wanted to fire a cero she'd find she was instead fortunate to have just dodged a large lighting bolt that had anihilated the 3 skeletal warriors. However because she was so close to the strike itself she would not get away unfased. For one her hearing would be immensely impaired given the near point blank crackle. The second would be the force of the blast zone would thrown her back down to the bottom of the stairs.



Her big solace however was by this point her markings on her arm were completely charged and she'd have no further delay in her ability to fire them off. Unfortunately she had several more lightning bolts coming her way which would require her use of Sonido to dodge them despite her distance between them. Thankfully though it was only 2 this time as opposed to the raw fury a few moments ago that had been 5 seperate bolts. While it would take Ailene a moment to get over the temporary lose of hearing and picking herself up from being thrown back by the time it was do or die from the lightning bolt she'd managed to sonido her way past the first one with relative ease. Going up stairs was a bit trickier than simply going across a smooth surface afterall. This was yet again repeated by Ailene as the second lightning bolt made its way down to strike her.



Lightning bolts aside Ailene would have a "easy" enough time fighting the storm itself as the winds and rain were more intense than ever and she was climbing stairs. However upon reaching the top of the stairs she'd finally see her "sancutary" to be. An utterly dilapidated and worn mess. The outerwall was hardly connected to the remainder of the used to be chapel / fortress given some of it clearly built into the wall of the hill on it's left side and the edge of the cliff on the right side. And considering how the remaining buildings looked, it was fair to say some of the outer wall had fallen into the waves below long ago.



Still Ailene would finally have sanctuary from the storm as she'd end the gate and find a hallway on her immediate left. The harsh winds still managed to blow through it but the rain didn't manage to enter once she was a couple feet into the passage. To her shock however would be the sound of several more lightning bolts though if she listened it sounded like some were on either side of her. And random at that. The progenitor of the storm had lost track of her and was simply raging for the time being. Ailene would quickly realize the best answer was to remain within the passageway until the storm and by extension its maker calmed down some. This would take several minutes, almost 10 in fact before things finally settled down. Initially showing by the winds starting to calm down from gales to the equivalent of a large factory fan blowing on her. The rain wasn't letting up yet and it hadn't brightened up but yet but things were calming nevertheless.



This is when Ailene's final surprise would make itself known. A large explosion unlike the crackle of lightning given how much more weight it had behind it came from the opposite side of the wall, in the courtyard. From there an inhuman roar would make itself known. If Ailene was familiar at all it would be somewhat similar to some of the monsters of hell from her realm. And if she peeked her head out to look at the monster in question she'd be pretty on point if she had thought it was from hell.



The beast in question towered over her and by extension the wall she was hiding in. Standing at 20 feet tall with a massive hand axe to boot the question of where the sound came was immediately answered. It had simply landed from where ever it had been prior. It had a chain wrapped around it's upper chest and some sort of metal brace around it's arms that the chain connected to. Claws the length of her head and arms that made even men on steriods cry out in jealousy.



It was covered in spikes, pestules of something, and even had a small set of wings and a . . . a tongue. That's what it looked like given some of the spikes formed something akin to teeth on the backside but Ailene would have to check to be certain. With 3 blood orange eyes scanning the courtyard it was obvious that it was looking for Ailene. It wasn't yet letting loose against the walls but considering it was quickly growing frustrated it wasn't out of the question that it might. The ball was in Ailene's court. How would she handle this monstrosity? Or would she handle it at all?

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{Vanguard (Mini Boss)}Strength: 300 (1,350)
Speed: 400 (160)
RS: 65 (26)
SPPR: 135 (81)
Senses: 300 (150)
Instinct: 400 (500)
ES: 0
HE: 0


Skills:

Pain Tolerance: 4 (2 points used)
Weapon - Hand Axe: 2
Poison Tolerance: 3
Shockwaves: 2
Focused Eye: 2
Bleeding Tolerance: 2

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{Soul dregs gained}+225 (75 per skeleton killed)

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{Corpse Counter}2 warriors / 1 archer: 2 posts

3 warriors : 3 posts

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{Current number of enemies}2 skeletal archers on the top of the wall

1 mini boss - Vanguard in the courtyards center

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{Current Storm level}Harsh winds, heavy rain, still dark but slowly calming

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{Images for courtyard and Vanguard}Vanguard reference:

References for Courtyard:

[Ailene Haschiro]

It was finally time. Ailene could feel the reiatsu pulsing through her arm. The intricate pattern had finished charging and she was now reading to move forward. With a quickened pace, she began to assault the skeletons with a hail of Cero. It was utterly vicious as she tore through the opposition with her flurry. As she did so she felt a certain rush. One of power and elation. She was pushing forward and was able to hold her own against this seemingly never-ending onslaught of skeletons. Then there was the danger up above. The clouds and lightning itself seemed out to get her. Ailene was convinced that these strikes weren't just random. Before she could face that creature, however, she had to get through this island.

Slowly coming upon shelter, Ailene quickly dismissed the flow of reiatsu that surrounded her arm. In mere moments, the once relentless hail died down and extinguished into nothingness. She decided that it would be wise to seek respite from the elements rather than continue braving the storm for now. She simply eased herself into relaxation as she sat, waiting for this storm to ease up. She would watch the pouring rain carefully. Seconds became a minute. Those minutes raced by as she continued to wait. She breathed out calmly and the weather began to ease up as well. She chuckled and rose to her feet once more. It was time to push forward and see what other horrors and wonders alike that this island held. 

What lay before her now was a courtyard housing large castle walls and seemingly battlements. Ailene was immediately intrigued. She was fascinated and certainly would love to learn the history to this place. Who built this? What rich culture did they possess? What drew reanimated creatures into this area? It all puzzled her, but it was part of the mystery and if there is one that Ailene loved it was a pleasant mystery. Though before she had more time to ruminate on her current circumstances, it seemed that she had bigger trouble to deal with. A loud roar accompanied by a deep growl that compounded together drove a chill up her spine. She needed to investigate. 

As she peeked out of the hallway that she was residing in she saw what could be described as a behemoth. Ailene's mind immediately went to work, dissecting every piece of information that she could about this creature. Its size was deceptive due to its distance. Ailene could immediately tell that it was much taller than her. Appearing clad in chains and steel while wielding an imposing hand axe, Ailene could deduce that it likely had some considerable bulk to it. That being said, Ailene reviewed her options. The battlements could potentially provide cover, but she'd long be spotted before she made it there. Her social skills would likely not aid her either. She immediately likened the creature to Rio assuming that if she drew close, she would easily be at its mercy.

It seemed that there was only one more option. She needed to face it and take it out. Her reiatsu reserves were already somewhat taxed, but she also knew that she could, likely, not take even one of its swings. She needed to take it out in one blow or at least try to. The answer seemed obvious. With a plan in mind, she drew her Zanpakutou. She sighed and breathed out calmly as she began to speak, walking from the hallway into the greater courtyard. She was maintaining her distance from the creature as she spoke. "Spread and Contaminate, Ausbruch." As the rain fell and the wind blew, Ailene's Zanpakutou would seemingly wilt and fade away.

Suddenly a dark sphere slowly took shape around the Arrancar. It would envelop her rather quickly as the transformation took place. She sensed that her strength was returning to her and that her reiatsu became far more potent in kind. Slowly emerging from the sphere, a fifteen-foot wyvern coiled and peered at the creature before her. She took her talons and razed them across her chest. She growled softly as her talons now dripped with her fresh blood. With her slender tongue, she lapped at her bloody talon and focused her reaitsu. She would only need a few seconds to charge as she continued growling softly. As she felt the small orb of reaitsu form within her mouth, she roared. A loud screech aimed at the creature before her. Not too long after, it emerged. From her gaping maw a flash of blue light erupted and raced towards the Vanguard. Whatever it hit would soon be enveloped in a flash of burning reiatsu and crackling electricity as her Gran Ray Cero moved at impressive speeds. Her claws dug at the ground somewhat, eager to see if the Gran Ray Cero was enough to at least wound her victim. With her renewed spiritual capabilities, she did not pay much heed to other adversaries as she assumed that her Hierro could handle just about anything that other skeletons could throw at her. 

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{Reiatsu}
Primera Etapa - 400
Gran Ray Cero - 400

Total Reiatsu: 1250/3000
Reiatsu after Resurrección: 850/3000

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{Soul Specialist}
Strength: 40 - 100
RS: 400 - 1000

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{Gran Ray Cero - 2000 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.

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{Ailene Yersinia - 65}
Claws - 5
Primera Etapa Overall - 20
Gran Ray Cero - 40