Magnum Osiria [Social]

[Charlotte & Serenity Buckner]

Taking a few moments to straighten appearance up just a tad, Charlotte looked on toward one of the many, many mirrors she'd kept on her current floor. Twisting and turning at the hip, the girl did what she could in order to make sure everything in regards to her appearance was in the absolute best shape it could've been in; she ran a hand through her hair, tugged at her outfit - which, in hindsight was much more of a dress than the traditional robes she'd otherwise be wearing, and proceeded to gently hit her palms against her cheeks in reassurance. This had better go well, she thought to herself, first impressions are important.

With a clack of her shoes against the marble ground Charlotte turned her heel and started to make her way out of the top floors of Las Noches. She'd spent more than enough time preparing herself and fixing up her appearance; the last thing she'd wanted was to run late during her meeting today; a meeting she'd actually been looking forward to, all things considered. She'd sent a letter to the Septima Espada - a Miss Ailene Haschiro - not too long ago, making note of the fact that she'd be headed over to officially meet the girl in a couple of hours. She was going to make good on her word.

As she continued to take her steps down the halls of Las Noches, the sounds of her heels colliding with the ground creating a rather prominent echo, Charlotte smiled to herself. Truthfully, she didn't know what to expect. She'd heard that this Miss Haschiro was far friendlier than most the other Espada, so she decided to take that fact and run with it. Who better to make a potential ally out of than that girl? Until a better opportunity presented itself, Charlotte was going to find herself spending quite a bit of time around this girl.

Eventually arriving on what she could only presume was Ailene's personal quarters, Charlotte took a soft breath, and placed her knuckles against the door. Pulling back and knocking after a slight delay, she made sure that her posture was absolutely impeccable, and pulled her hands behind her back. Assuming Ailene opened the door, Charlotte would greet the girl with a smile. "Hello, Miss Septima~ I hope my letter found you well?"

[Ailene Haschiro]

Static. That familiar and distinct sound of a Sonido would be heard within Ailene's chambers. It had echoed multiple times within the span of a few minutes as other sounds filled the grand hall. The sound of water boiling, the crackling of a warm fire and Ailene's own frantic ramblings. Just as she stopped to tend to one task, another would arise. The ring of her kettle would echo which alerted her that the tea would be done soon. Before she could tend to that, however, scrolls which were hastily piled all around began to fall off of the shelf. The Arrancar simply groaned as her expression spoke only of the stress she felt. She began to mutter to herself. "I knew it. I shouldn't have waited. This is exactly the reason that I always clean up! But no....this time I had to postpone it..." 

The Septima Espada who was normally calm looked down in annoyance at a letter. It was neatly ripped open as the writing peeked from the envelope. She sighed and gingerly gripped the paper, holding it before her as the Espada's eyes skimmed over it. She had read over it numerous times already, but she needed to reassure herself that she read it correctly. A letter from someone she was not entirely expecting. A Charlotte Buckner who declared herself the Primera Espada. The overall tone of the letter was demanding, but it carried a politeness with it that was rarely seen. According to the letter, she was planning on visiting within a few hours. Ailene was sweating at the idea of it.

It had not been more than a couple days ago that the Espada had the most interesting encounter. She had assisted a Shinigami in tracking down a Hollow by the name of Walker. Their encounter had been full of little twists and turns that ended with them helping the Hollow by purifying it. This little expedition of hers left her completely and utterly exhausted. She'd be rather sedentary for the past few days as her quarters found themselves growing messier and messier. If not by Shio's hand, then by her own. Now she needed to rush to make everything look orderly. After all, it was not every day that one of the higher numbered Espada chose to visit. 

As the tea finished, her mind returned to reality as she turned off the kettle. She'd tap her shoulder as the steam rising from the top began to simmer. She sighed as she walked over to return the scrolls to where they belong. She gave her quarters one final look around. Her shelves were orderly, tables cleared, floor clean and clutter had been minimized. She sighed briefly, feeling far more content to receive her guest within a few moments. For now, Ailene take out two porcelain tea cups. Pulling out a little box, she'd click it open and reveal countless tea bags that she accumulated over time. This was just one of a few dozen. She made it a point to always be ready to tend to the needs of others after all. Before she had a chance to pour herself a cup, she heard a knocking on the door. She was here...

Ailene sighed for a moment as she executed a quick Sonido. Finding herself before the door in the blink of an eye, she'd breathe in calmly. She closed her eyes and nodded. "Nothing to fear. You are an Espada. You've conquered many to come this far. No point in freaking out over some new blood..." As she opened her eyes, she'd smile and open the door. As she did, her eyes would come across a rather beautiful woman. Her golden-blonde hair stuck out almost immediately. Unlike the usual Espada garbs, Charlotte wore a dress that seemed to accentuate and highlight her curves. It was completely unlike Ailene's own which resembled those of a scholars' robes. A white hood rested against her back as purple triangle-like shapes adorned the hem of the robes. 

As Charlotte greeted her rather warmly and with a smile, Ailene was admittedly intrigued. "Hello, Miss Septima~ I hope my letter found you well?" Ailene simply smiled. "Miss Septima? That's a new one." Ailene would give her own greeting though it would be notably different. The Septima Espada gingerly gripped the hem of her robes as she gave a rather formal curtsey to the Primera Espada. This would immediately seem archaic by today's standards, but Ailene cared little of the normal conventions. As Ailene spoke, her voice would immediately carry with it a soothing warmth. It was calm and tranquil, self-assured. "Your letter certainly found its mark, Lady Charlotte." Ailene shifted backward somewhat as she made space. "Please. Do come in." 

Assuming that Charlotte made her way into the great hall, Ailene would wait a few moments before closing the door behind her. Each of the Espada had the freedom to customize their private quarters, however they liked. If Serraph had a library, then Ailene's would be more akin to a museum or the study hall found at a University. Countless towering bookshelves, dozens of meters tall adorned the walls. Each was filled with what seemed to be seemingly endless books of various disciplines from medicine to philosophy to history. It would be easy to tell at a glance that Ailene would likely be very well read. Other shelves were adorned with artifacts, collected over several centuries. Spread out throughout sections of the floor would be short coffee tables with two to four chairs surronding them. Other areas would be rings of chairs that were clearly intended for socialization.

Having let Charlotte in, Ailene would immediately make her way over to one of the tables as she began preparing cups of tea. Her own would be her usual favorite. A Jasmine tea which steamed as the boiling water touched the tea packet. The Septima Espada looked over to the Primera Espada as she shot her a smile. "May I offer you any tea? I've got a wide range of selection. Jasmine. Pomegranate. Green Tea. Just to name a few." If Charlotte answered her with a request, Ailene would begin to prep it. If she didn't then Ailene would make her way over to one of the small coffee tables with her own cup of tea. She'd wave her hand over to the chair across from her and offer the Espada her tea if she desired it. The Septima Espada would sit down and begin to gently swirl her spoon in the tea. Tapping it on the side, she'd look up. "May I say that it truly is an honor to be visited by you, Lady Charlotte. I know your letter gave a vague description, but if I may ask...why have you chosen to visit?" 

[Charlotte & Serenity Buckner]

Watching as the Septima curtsied, Charlotte followed in suit with a slight nod of her head. "Your letter certainly found its mark, Lady Charlotte. Please. Do come in." She knew quite well that from that introduction alone, this was going to be a very interesting meeting. "I'm certainly glad to hear it," she said in response, following Ailene inside, "I my surprise visit was of no issue to you, I was simply far too excited to get to meet you; I could barely contain myself~"

Following the girl inside, Charlotte took a precursory glance around Ailene's abode, and found herself incredibly surprised. She'd never seen much of anything like this before; to say she was surprised though would've been only partially telling the truth. She'd very much expected some level of appreciation for the written word from Ailene, if rumors and statements from others were to be believed, but good lord, this was on a completely different level. "Goodness," she spoke softly, "this is quite the collection you've got here. I'm impressed. How long did it take you to acquire such an amount of content?"

Making her way over to one of the shelves currently filled with various different display pieces, Charlotte hummed softly to herself. "Simply remarkable," she muttered, before raising her voice back to a normal tone, "there's quite a fair deal here that I can't even say that I recognize. From your taste alone, I'd say you've earned my respect, Miss Septima." Turning back around, Charlotte noticed Ailene's moving toward one of the tables set about, and followed her over in suit. "If you don't mind, I'd like to visit again at some point to simply admire what you have here." With that, she chuckled as she found her seat.

Upon hearing Ailene's offer, Charlotte gently placed her index finger to her chin. With a short moment of ponderance, she eventually gave Ailene an answer in return. "Unfortunately I cannot say that I'm too familiar with tea; I'm much more of a coffee person, myself. That said, I trust you're quite skilled when it comes to preparing tea given you're offering, no? If that's the case, I'll trust your judgement on the matter; I'd very much appreciate the strongest cup that you can offer, if that's all right with you."

If Ailene brought over a cup of tea for Charlotte, she'd almost immediately begin to sip from the cup as soon as she was offered, very much savoring any bitterness the drink might've had to offer. Gently setting the cup down, Charlotte found herself immediately asked a question. "May I say that it truly is an honor to be visited by you, Lady Charlotte. I know your letter gave a vague description, but if I may ask...why have you chosen to visit?" With a soft chuckle, Charlotte placed her hands into her lap, before proceeding to answer Ailene's question.

"I'm glad you feel that way; it is just as much an honor to be in such a lovely place. Regarding my reasons for being here, though; the answer is quite simple. I've an interest in the goings on amongst the current Espada. In time, I plan on making my name known to everyone here, and introducing myself accordingly. You were simply at the top of my list; call it a level of intrigue that drew me toward you from what I'd heard. Next to that Beast, you've currently earned a level of intrigue from me."

[Ailene Haschiro]

"Goodness," Having let Charlotte in, Ailene tilted her head in response to this immediate reaction. Moments later, she raised an eyebrow. That was until Charlotte gave more praise. "this is quite the collection you've got here. I'm impressed. How long did it take you to acquire such an amount of content?" In a few moments, Charlotte had already appealed to Ailene. The Primera Espada seemed to be genuinely interested in the wealth of knowledge and history that the Septima's room told. For a moment, Ailene began to approach Charlotte and spoke in a gentle tone. "I've been collecting books, written records and other artifacts over the course of a few centuries." She paused for a moment as a smile touched her lips. "Bidding for items at auctions and purchasing works at local libraries. I'm quite proud of what I've amassed here." 

"Simply remarkable," Once more, Charlotte began to offer Ailene more praise. "there's quite a fair deal here that I can't even say that I recognize. From your taste alone, I'd say you've earned my respect, Miss Septima." A slight blush touched her cheeks as Ailene made her way over to the table where the tea resided. As she did, Charlotte continued. "If you don't mind, I'd like to visit again at some point to simply admire what you have here." As she stood, beginning her prep, Ailene turned her head to the fellow Espada. "My doors are open to any and all who choose to visit. You may visit anytime you desire." Despite her approval, there was a dispassion to her voice.

Taking out the cups, a box of countless tea bags and already having the water pre-heated, Ailene offered the Primera a cup of tea. Charlotte's answer made the Septima Espada hum softly to herself. "Unfortunately, I cannot say that I'm too familiar with tea; I'm much more of a coffee person, myself. That said, I trust you're quite skilled when it comes to preparing tea given you're offering, no? If that's the case, I'll trust your judgement on the matter; I'd very much appreciate the strongest cup that you can offer, if that's all right with you." Ailene nodded as she continued humming to herself. The Septima Espada enjoyed her tea in a variety of ways, but bitter was not one of them. Regardless, she would not go against her guests' wishes.

For herself, Ailene would set a pomegranate tea bag into her cup. Pouring the steaming hot water into the cup, she'd let it settle before she went on to make Charlotte's tea. Digging through another box, Ailene pulled a peppermint tea. As she placed it into the cup and poured the hot water, Ailene would let it sit for much longer than her own cup. She knew that a tea steeping too long would naturally become bitter. Since this was a peppermint tea, it would enhance the bitterness to something that would likely be of Charlotte's liking. After several minutes, she removed the Pomegranate tea bag. Discarding the bag, she'd also slip some honey into it, taking a spoon and gently stirring. After several more minutes, she' remove the tea bag from Charlotte's cup, not adding anything special to it as to not disturb its strong taste.

Ailene set her and Charlotte's cups on an ornately decorated plate. Approaching while holding them, one in each hand, Ailene set the peppermint tea before Charlotte. Sitting down herself, Ailene began to take a sip from the Pomegranate tea, enjoying its sweet fragrance and taste. It'd be completely different from Charlotte had which carried a strong and bitter taste. Amidst enjoying her cup of tea, Ailene posed a question that was on her mind. The Primera Espada had contacted her out of nowhere after all. The Espada had heard rumors that someone had recently taken up the position of the Primera Espada, but she never assumed her to be so...charming. Ailene was merely curious to know why the Primera had visited her of all people. 

Thankfully, Charlotte would entertain her question. "I'm glad you feel that way; it is just as much an honor to be in such a lovely place. Regarding my reasons for being here, though; the answer is quite simple. I've an interest in the goings on amongst the current Espada. In time, I plan on making my name known to everyone here, and introducing myself accordingly. You were simply at the top of my list; call it a level of intrigue that drew me toward you from what I'd heard. Next to that Beast, you've currently earned a level of intrigue from me." Ailene nodded as she set her cup of tea down unto the coffee table that sat between them. 

As Ailene spoke, her voice would have some more warmth to it. "I see. Well, it is a shame that you weren't with us yet to enjoy my book club." She'd give Charlotte a small smile as she continued. "I hosted a Book Club in the past, hoping that the Espada could get to know one another a little more. Reading interests can speak volumes about one's character." She gently tapped her spoon against the side of the tea cup. "Unfortunately, turnout for Espada was rather low. I may host another in the future, but that is yet to be seen..." As Ailene spoke of the turnout and her future plans for the Book Club, Charlotte would likely be able to tell that the poor turnout was a rather sore topic for the Espada. It clearly bothered her. 

"Oh. Speaking of which..." Ailene set her spoon into the teacup, looking up at Charlotte. "How have you been enjoying your time among the Espada, Lady Charlotte? I hear you are a recent entry to our ranks. Are you enjoying your quarters?" After giving Charlotte an opportunity to answer, Ailene gave the Espada a look up and down. She tried to gleam what she could with her keen eye. The way she presented herself. There was a radiance to it. Confidence. Her choice of clothing certainly did not scream modesty either. It was rather tight-fitting. She was a natural beauty and seemed to want to show it off. Ailene wouldn't judge, but she would be leery. Ailene was curious about one thing. Was this going to be another Arcadus? Some power-hungry Arrancar who took control of the entire situation. He had somewhat done so during Ailene's Book Club and it left a poor taste in the Septima's mouth. Only time would tell, but so far Ailene did not get that vibe from her. 

[Charlotte & Serenity Buckner]

"Well, it is a shame that you weren't with us yet to enjoy my book club." Charlotte's eyebrows raised themselves ever slightly. A book club? She thought to herself, in Las Noches of all places? My, this girl keeps growing more interesting by the day. Softly sipping her tea, Charlotte allowed Ailene to continue speaking. She needn't interrupt her, especially when it seemed that she still had more to say on the same matter regardless.

"I hosted a Book Club in the past, hoping that the Espada could get to know one another a little more. Reading interests can speak volumes about one's character. Unfortunately, turnout for Espada was rather low. I may host another in the future, but that is yet to be seen..." The girl nodded along with Ailene's own words. "I can only imagine so," she softly spoke, before taking another sip, "I've heard those around here, save for a few interesting folk like ourselves, aren't exactly interested in the written arts. Pity, honestly."

Watching Ailene's body language, Charlotte realized quite quickly that this topic probably wasn't the best for the girl. Perhaps a change was in order? Though, before she had the opportunity to say much of anything, it seemed that Ailene chimed in once more. "Oh. Speaking of which..." she spoke, very quickly catching Charlotte off-guard; not enough to startle the girl, but enough to provoke interest. "How have you been enjoying your time among the Espada, Lady Charlotte? I hear you are a recent entry to our ranks. Are you enjoying your quarters?" Softly smiling, Charlotte nodded before setting down her cup.

"In truth, it hasn't been all that bad," she spoke, "my sister and I have been stationed rather nicely in Las Noches; I'm fairly comfortable myself, and given her already bouncing off the walls, I'd like to think she's fairly comfortable too." Charlotte chuckled softly, moving her left hand toward her mouth, her fingertips ever so slightly covering her lips in the process. Not a few moments later, her hands were back in her lap. "Jokes aside, though, our welcome has been surprisingly warm, from those we'd encountered not long ago. Like I'd stated not a few moments prior, we still have yet to meet with the rest of the Espada; and I have yet to introduce you to my sister."

Charlotte took a moment to ponder that potential situation before it happened. Just how would something like that go? Truth be told, she hadn't fully gotten a grasp on Ailene's personality quite yet, so making an assumption on that would be rather difficult at the moment. From what she'd been able to pick up, however, she was much more... social, than the other Arrancar. More perceptive, empathetic. Not necessarily bad qualities, either; no, perhaps qualities she'd like to keep herself around. She'd have to meet the other Espada first though.

"Perhaps sometime soon I can introduce the two of you. She's certainly a little ball of energy, that one. I'm sure you'll get along quite well." Giving Ailene a soft smile, Charlotte went back to sipping her tea. "On another note, Ailene, this is quite nice. I do want to apologize for such a hasty visit, if I have not already. I tend to get a bit caught up in my own little world from time to time, so you'll have to forgive me." Following the same motions, Charlotte chuckled once more.

"I did want to ask you, however; you don't seem like the rest of the Arrancar amongst our ranks here. One could say that you very clearly... stick out, for lack of a better analogy. I mean no ill by that, however. Rather, quite the opposite. Like I said earlier, you interest me, Miss Septima. If you don't mind my asking, what caused you to find yourself involved with the Espada, of all places? I'm sure there were numerous other places you could have found yourself, no? What made you choose here of all places?

Contrary to her original demeanor, Charlotte's expression quickly turned to something more inquisitive; slightly furrowed brow, narrowed eyes, a soft, resting smile, and pupils darting all across Ailene's form, trying to pick out even the slightest hints of body language. Anything to get a reading on the girl. She wanted to learn just what made this girl tick; which buttons she could press, and which to avoid pressing. She saw potential in Ailene; both in use, and even as someone she could talk to recreationally. Only time would tell if that sentiment had staying-power.

[Ailene Haschiro]

"I've heard those around here, save for a few interesting folk like ourselves, aren't exactly interested in the written arts. Pity, honestly." Something about that warmed Ailene's heart. She had to admit that she was a little soured over how the Book Club turned out... Where she had gone wrong? Could she have reached out to others? Maybe even those in Soul Society? Would they have come? These were all questions that burned within Ailene's minds. Thoughts that raced around and built more questions. It was maddening. Yet... Charlotte seemed sympathetic to her cause. This made the Septima Espada smile, for a moment. The tone of the conversation was beginning to sour and it was the last thing that the Espada wanted.

Quickly switching gears, Ailene began to ask about Charlotte's recent addition to the Espada. Were her quarters comfortable? Was she liking the atmosphere? The usual banter that allowed two people to get to know one another better. Thankfully, Charlotte seemed to oblige her change in topics. "In truth, it hasn't been all that bad. My sister and I have been stationed rather nicely in Las Noches; I'm fairly comfortable myself, and given her already bouncing off the walls, I'd like to think she's fairly comfortable too." In that moment, as Charlotte giggled, Ailene's lips curled in interest. "A sister? Well that's new. Were they turned into Hollows together...? If so... how do they exist together? How they recognize each other as sisters?" It was a genuine question that plagued Ailene merely out of sheer curiosity. Regardless, Charlotte would continue. 

"Jokes aside, though, our welcome has been surprisingly warm, from those we'd encountered not long ago. Like I'd stated not a few moments prior, we still have yet to meet with the rest of the Espada; and I have yet to introduce you to my sister." Noting the smile that the Primera was giving her, Ailene couldn't help, but chuckle softly. "Who would've guessed? This woman is the Primera Espada. The strongest among our ranks. Yet... she is so personable. Not a chauvinist like Rio and not an attention whore like Arcadus. You fascinate me Lady Charlotte..." Ailene's chuckle soon became a smile as Charlotte continued in her chatting. 

"Perhaps sometime soon I can introduce the two of you. She's certainly a little ball of energy, that one. I'm sure you'll get along quite well." The Septima Espada's cheeks flushed at the prospect. Before Ailene, however, could get much of a word in, Charlotte continued. "On another note, Ailene, this is quite nice. I do want to apologize for such a hasty visit, if I have not already. I tend to get a bit caught up in my own little world from time to time, so you'll have to forgive me." Ailene's expression did not change, but internally she was huffing. "Curse it, woman. Slow down!" She couldn't help, but chuckle to herself. Charlotte was certainly the chatterbox. Then again... Ailene had asked rapid fire questions in the past as well so she couldn't necessarily fault the woman before her. "Huh. So this is what it feels like to be on the other end..."

Among there entire conversation, it would be Charlotte's next question that piqued Ailene's interest the most. "I did want to ask you, however; you don't seem like the rest of the Arrancar amongst our ranks here. One could say that you very clearly... stick out, for lack of a better analogy. I mean no ill by that, however. Rather, quite the opposite. Like I said earlier, you interest me, Miss Septima. If you don't mind my asking, what caused you to find yourself involved with the Espada, of all places? I'm sure there were numerous other places you could have found yourself, no? What made you choose here of all places?" Ailene took note in a change in Charlotte. The Primera Espada was certainly the inquisitive one for the moment. The question was... should Ailene lie? Or would this finally be the forum to air her grievances.

"Well... I am a terrible liar. Perhaps... it's time I confide in one of my own.." The Septima Espada rocked back into her seat. Her expression would not change. In fact, she'd take a sip of her tea for a moment as she smiled. "Well that's certainly a fascinating question. Can't say I've ever been asked my motivations..." Setting the cup of tea down on the arm of the chair, the Espada lightly tapped her fingers with a soothing rhythm. "I'd be the first to admit that I do stick out like a sore thumb. There is something about me, Lady Charlotte, that you have to understand...." She'd sigh for a moment, indicating that this would likely be a long winded explanation. 

"I've been with the Espada for a long time. Several centuries, give or take. I lose track of time. Well anyway." Ailene did what she could to stay on track. "Why do you think that is?" Ailene would give Charlotte a moment to ponder and perhaps even answer. Naturally, Ailene would explain regardless of whether it was correct or not. "As Hollows, we do terrible things. To people that we knew in life. Friends... family... old flames even. We trade a peaceful existence for power and an almost debilitating hunger." As Ailene spoke, her voice would become far less cheerful. It would be clear that she didn't like where this was going. "To what end? To become Vasto Lorde. To become Arrancar. In return for ages of suffering... we gain even more power." She'd let her analysis sink in for a moment before continuing.

"Most Arrancar, I find at least, don't know how to move away from what they learned. Kill. Maim. Destroy. Who can blame them? They learnt early on that the weak perish while the strong thrive. It's a lesson bathed in blood that is hard to unlearn. Now... how does this relate back to me?" Ailene took another sip of her tea, attempting to calm her nerves. "Our kind is despised. Feared. Hated. Why do I choose to align with the Espada?" She'd lean in closer, her voice ripe with some level of anger. "Because we don't fit in anywhere else." Once again, she'd let that sink in. "Frankly, between you and me, I hate this existence. I despise the killing. I loathe the constant desire to dominate. But most of all what I truly hate is the persecution. For Arrancar like me, who don't fit in the mold that was laid out for us, it seems that I don't fit in with the Espada either." 

Her anger broke. She'd lean back into her seat, exhausted from laying her emotions and motivations bare before someone else. Yet... it felt good to talk about it. Her face would turn to melancholy for a moment. "The truth is... I never felt that I could belong anywhere else." Her eyes fixated on Charlotte for a moment. "My fellow Espada, present company excluded, are bothersome. I find that I distance myself more and more. Hell, I'm even on the eve of the grand opening of my own tea shop in Karakura just to so I don't have to bear the bleak wasteland of the White Desert. It will be a place for my mind to be at ease. For people of all backgrounds to enjoy tea and just... talk." Ailene sighed, falling back into her seat and peering at Charlotte. Despite her exhaustion, she'd try to discern the Primera's reaction to her little rant. Regardless, she'd tap her forehead, annoyed. "My apologies. It's improper form for a host to bring down the atmosphere. I hope you can forgive me, Lady Charlotte." 

[Charlotte & Serenity Buckner]

"Well that's certainly a fascinating question. Can't say I've ever been asked my motivations..." More than anything else, Charlotte found herself surprised. She'd never been asked for her reasons? Someone like Ailene had set a reputation for herself; she wasn't combative. Most everyone seemed to know this. And yet, nobody's asked the girl why yet? Curious. Though, she wasn't going to interject quite yet. Best let the girl share what she wanted about herself before Charlotte said anything.

"I'd be the first to admit that I do stick out like a sore thumb. There is something about me, Lady Charlotte, that you have to understand.... "I've been with the Espada for a long time. Several centuries, give or take. I lose track of time. Well anyway. Why do you think that is?" Given Ailene's pause, she decided to take the time to answer the question, rhetorical or otherwise. "Truthfully, I can't say. I've my own suspicions, but I don't suppose they're correct. I'm assuming to be able to keep yourself out of combat, via intimidation tactics alone?"

"As Hollows, we do terrible things. To people that we knew in life. Friends... family... old flames even. We trade a peaceful existence for power and an almost debilitating hunger." These words forced Charlotte to narrow her eyes. To say she didn't like where this was going was an understatement. Still, though, she'd hear her out. Perhaps her words wouldn't be so... so heretical going forward. "To what end? To become Vasto Lorde. To become Arrancar. In return for ages of suffering... we gain even more power." And there it was. With a soft smile, Charlotte simply nodded her head, encouraging the girl to continue. Seems her words did have a purpose after all.

"Most Arrancar, I find at least, don't know how to move away from what they learned. Kill. Maim. Destroy. Who can blame them? They learnt early on that the weak perish while the strong thrive. It's a lesson bathed in blood that is hard to unlearn. Now... how does this relate back to me?" Charlotte continued to listen, encouraged by Ailene's movements to sip tea of her own. She continued to watch the Septima with an intense glare; not quite looking to intimidate, but enough to let her know she was thinking more seriously.

"Our kind is despised. Feared. Hated. Why do I choose to align with the Espada? Because we don't fit in anywhere else." Once again, these words caused Charlotte to furrow her brow at the matter. She doesn't 'fit in' anywhere else? What on earth would that matter to someone of her own stature? Someone of her power? Regardless, she listened on as Ailene continued to speak. "Frankly, between you and me, I hate this existence. I despise the killing. I loathe the constant desire to dominate. But most of all what I truly hate is the persecution. For Arrancar like me, who don't fit in the mold that was laid out for us, it seems that I don't fit in with the Espada either."

These words were the tipping point for Charlotte. Setting her cup down with a bit more force than she would've preferred, she smiled while staring not toward Ailene anymore, but toward the teacup. She no longer made eye contact with Ailene; instead, she'd simply let her finish speaking, before giving her peace. Though, she'd listen intently. She wasn't going to simply ignore the girl's words. Especially not after how passionate it made both of them feel about the situation at hand.

When Ailene finished, and asked for forgiveness, Charlotte softly chuckled to herself. "Ailene," she started, her voice kept hushed, "do you truly think that any of us actually enjoy this existence? With the exception of maybe Mr. Demonliogalgo, I think it's safe to say that none of us enjoy those urges; those instincts. How do you think I feel, turning to my sister every single day, knowing she knows everything I've done to put us where we are? Every. Single. Fucking. Life. That I've had to take, just to ensure she's safe. Do you think I enjoy that? Do you think SHE enjoys that?"

Turning her head up toward Ailene, Charlotte, now teary-eyed, smiled toward the Septima. Though the smile wasn't fake, anyone could pick up on the melancholic nature behind it. "She doesn't. I don't. And yet, what are we supposed to do? Just sit back, and ignore everything that makes up who we are? What we're meant to be? Whether we like it or not, Ailene, we're killing machines. You agreed to that fate upon accepting your rank; upon taking your place amongst the strongest of the Hollows that call Hueco Mundo home. Do you think you can simply just cast that aside, and leave?" She paused.

"You're pure, Ailene. You're strong. And, most importantly, you're an Arrancar. You've got strength that everyone in the Three Worlds would dream of having. Don't give that up. It isn't worth the cost you'd pay to do so."

[Ailene Haschiro]

"Truthfully, I can't say. I've my own suspicions, but I don't suppose they're correct. I'm assuming to be able to keep yourself out of combat, via intimidation tactics alone?" A typical response that Ailene expected. Despite the fact that she was inaccurate, Ailene could see how there was logic in her deduction. Among the Espada... hell among Arrancar, the Septima was the least combative. She did not affiliate herself plans of invasion or conquering. Quite the opposite, Ailene always sought peaceful solutions. The ones that would result in the least bloodshed. It was just the ways she functioned. She didn't like to fight despite possessing impressive skills when unleashing her Resurrecciòn. 

Suddenly, Ailene delved into the topic. She explained her view on being an Espada. The lifestyle of Arrancar. She then contradicted with her own desires, her own wants. It was a visceral topic for Ailene. Nobody had ever asked her motivations. Her reasons for becoming an Espada. Whereas most Arrancar would likely claim power, Ailene merely sought companionship. Comradery. She despised the way they were viewed. She hated that she suffered for the actions of others. Sure, Ailene had her fair share of bloodshed as a Hollow and even sometimes as an Arrancar and yet... she tried to move away from that. It was those moments that she needed to act like a Hollow... those few times when she truly felt a sense of loathing. 

Even despite her ranting, Ailene still kept an eye on her guest. Charlotte was the Primera Espada. The strongest among them. While she did listen, Ailene was no fool. She could read expressions rather well and her natural empathy that other Arrancar lacked allowed her to sense those emotions. There was... concern. To accompany this, Charlotte seemed to furrow her brow. Even despite the effect that it was having on her guest, Ailene wouldn't stop. She couldn't at this point. This was a rare opportunity for her to open up about her true motivations. To make her stance clear to at least one person. After what felt like an eternity, Ailene finally finished. 

Her eyes immediately tried to pry anything they could from the Primera Espada. Despite this, Ailene would appear relatively calm, a small pout forming on her face. Charlotte was smiling... but it was not at her. Quite the opposite. The Primera was not even maintaining eye contact with her. Ailene's eyes narrowed as Charlotte chuckled to herself. The Septima tilted her head as Charlotte spoke. "Ailene," The Septima simply leaned back into her chair, giving Charlotte the floor. The Primera had been patient with Ailene as she ranted, and Ailene could only repay her by giving her full undivided attention and yet... Ailene had a feeling based on Charlotte's body language that she would get much dissent.

"Do you truly think that any of us actually enjoy this existence? With the exception of maybe Mr. Demonliogalgo, I think it's safe to say that none of us enjoy those urges; those instincts. How do you think I feel, turning to my sister every single day, knowing she knows everything I've done to put us where we are? Every. Single. Fucking. Life. That I've had to take, just to ensure she's safe. Do you think I enjoy that? Do you think SHE enjoys that?" Ailene continued to listen, affording her no answer... at least not yet. Her expression would remain calm, but deep underneath, Ailene felt for this woman. She seemed to have regret. Something that the Septima felt many of the other Espada lacked and yet... there was more to it. As Charlotte looked at Ailene, the latter would immediately recognize tears. Ailene was in shock. She couldn't give a response. Not until the Primera finished.

"She doesn't. I don't. And yet, what are we supposed to do? Just sit back, and ignore everything that makes up who we are? What we're meant to be? Whether we like it or not, Ailene, we're killing machines. You agreed to that fate upon accepting your rank; upon taking your place amongst the strongest of the Hollows that call Hueco Mundo home. Do you think you can simply just cast that aside, and leave?" As she paused, Ailene's purple orbits met those of the Primera. Despite her understanding... she was annoyed. This woman had basically told her to suck it up. "You're pure, Ailene. You're strong. And, most importantly, you're an Arrancar. You've got strength that everyone in the Three Worlds would dream of having. Don't give that up. It isn't worth the cost you'd pay to do so." Ailene simply tapped her finger against the arm of the chair where she sat. She'd sigh briefly as she brought her hand up to her cheek, cupping it gently. Her voice would start hushed.

"I grief for you and your sister. I admire your care for her, I acknowledge your passion for protecting her, and I am sure that there is much you regret on your joint path here. It's a trait that I feel many of us have lost over the decades.. sometimes even centuries." There was no deception in her voice. No ulterior motive in showing sympathy. Quite the opposite, there was genuine pain in her voice. As she paused for a moment, tapping her cheek, she'd continue shortly after. This time her voice would become far less warm. "That being said... I do believe that many Arrancar revel in their existence. I don't presume that you've met an Arcadus, our Tercera Espada, but I would surely bet my life on the fact that he enjoys his existence. Then there was also Myza Synderfell..." Ailene paused for a moment as she trailed off. Myza... where did that name come from. The name burned brightly like a flame before extinguishing like dying embers, she'd shake her head for a moment. 

She'd rise to her feet, pacing around briskly. Her voice would become coarse and angry. "As for me. You're right. I am an Arrancar. I've been given strength from the moment of my existence that others could only dream of..and.." She'd look down at her hands, her face expression contorting to one of anger. Her voice would ring with resentment. "...And I don't even know if the decision is my own, damnit!" She'd stomp her foot down in annoyance, reiatsu instinctively surging to foot and causing her strength to multiply many times over as it slammed into the marble floor beneath. It would crack, defacing the beautifully crafted flooring. Ailene didn't care, however. She couldn't focus on anything, but her anger as she turned to Charlotte, her cheeks flushed red with anger.

"I am the product of two souls. A brother and a sister's spirit joining to form a unique vessel..." Her reiatsu would suddenly disperse from her limb, calming down again. "And I don't even know if any damn decision I've made thus far was my own. Whether it was me or the two of them somehow exerting influence. I was given life because two Arrancar decided to give up theirs and what do I do with it.." Her arm moved out to point at the collection of books and trinkets all around them. "...I collect knowledge that few get to see... I'm granted power and am too afraid to use it... and worse yet... I can't do anything to change it!" She growled to herself. "The first real decision that I know I can make... and it would sacrifice everything that I am. Everything that I've been... and I can't do anything about it," She'd sigh for a moment as she returned to her seat, sitting back down. Her energy expended... her mind exhausted... her will broken. As she continued, her voice only sound melancholy. "I'm not like you Charlotte... I'm not strong. I can't just face what I am and accept it... There's just... nothing here for me..." With that, she'd go silent, rubbing her temple as her head actually began to hurt from her anger.

[Charlotte & Serenity Buckner]

"I grief for you and your sister. I admire your care for her, I acknowledge your passion for protecting her, and I am sure that there is much you regret on your joint path here. It's a trait that I feel many of us have lost over the decades.. sometimes even centuries." Charlotte simply nodded. In truth, she did understand the woman's sentiment. There was indeed quite a fair bit that she'd regretted. One of which was bringing her younger sister under the folds of Sonken Kouhai; a mistake that she'd never quite be able to run from any time soon. They'd been effectively stuck underneath him; to leave meant to face certain death.

That being said... I do believe that many Arrancar revel in their existence. I don't presume that you've met an Arcadus, our Tercera Espada, but I would surely bet my life on the fact that he enjoys his existence. Then there was also Myza Synderfell... As for me. You're right. I am an Arrancar. I've been given strength from the moment of my existence that others could only dream of... and... and I don't even know if the decision is my own, damnit!

Flinching ever so slightly at the woman's words, Charlotte's expression turned back to one of neutrality. "Now, now, I don't believe there's a reason to shout, is there~? I haven't met the Tercera Espada quite yet, but I've heard... stories, of his endeavors." Sighing softly to herself, she placed a hand to her forehead. "Courting a Shinigami traitor, what on earth was he thinking?" She chuckled. "Though, I am curious; what did you mean by 'you don't know if the decision is your own'?"

As if on queue, it seemed that Ailene was primed to answer her question. "I am the product of two souls. A brother and a sister's spirit joining to form a unique vessel... And I don't even know if any damn decision I've made thus far was my own. Whether it was me or the two of them somehow exerting influence. I was given life because two Arrancar decided to give up theirs and what do I do with it... I collect knowledge that few get to see... I'm granted power and am too afraid to use it... and worse yet... I can't do anything to change it!"

Once again, she quizzically placed her hand to her chin in thought. A product of two souls? She thought to herself, this is... taking a rather interesting turn, now isn't it~? Sighing softly, Charlotte simply held her responses for the time being. She felt that Ailene likely had more to say after her little outburst again, and wanted to give her that time to speak her mind. Perhaps she'd share more insight into her situation? It seemed she was... almost the antithesis to Charlotte herself, and that was a fact that intrigued her quite a bit.

"The first real decision that I know I can make... and it would sacrifice everything that I am. Everything that I've been... and I can't do anything about it. I'm not like you Charlotte... I'm not strong. I can't just face what I am and accept it... There's just... nothing here for me..." Shaking her head, Charlotte decided to interject here, whether the girl had planned to share more or otherwise. Her feelings were somewhat justified to the Primera, but her comments certainly were not to the woman.

"Don't say such things," she spoke, "you absolutely have your place here. You're amongst the ten strongest Arrancar in the Three Worlds, after all. I believe the number you bear on your skin is a signal of that fact, no? You're plenty strong; I needn't make aggressive action toward you in order to bring that out. You wouldn't be where you are right now if it weren't for that fact. I understand your convictions, and the thoughts toward your existence, but thus is the life of a Hollow. That's something that, well, we all try to get over after a while. I assure you it's a normal feeling."

Giving the girl a soft smile, Charlotte continued. "Where it stands, acceptance of yourself is something that will come in due time, Ailene. It takes all of us quite some time in order to do so; hell, it took me ages, all things considered! It's not something that's going to happen overnight. Serenity and I are glad to help where possible, but I cannot in good faith promise that we'll be able to do a large amount; that's effort that has to come from you if you look to reach the heights of your Hollow nature. Nonetheless, for as long as you're here, I have your back. We're kindred spirits, you and I; we share more in common than you might think."