Post by Ailene Haschiro on Jul 14, 2022 14:57:17 GMT -5
☽ Opening ☾
Discord: ButterflyLaylaPasswords: Black Hole & Moon Pray
Class/Rank: Class 8/Rank I
Affiliation: Mercenary
Type: Fractured
{
Strength: 50 [38]
Speed: 50 [67]
Spiritual Pressure: 50 [75]
Reiatsu Strength: 50 [35]
Instinct: [50]
Senses: [50]
Energy Sensory: [0]
Healing Expertise: [0]
Light Aura - 50
Dark Aura - 50
---------
Pain Tolerance [1]
Battle Analysis [1]
Weapon: Curved Daggers [1]
Shadow Magicks [1]
Calm Mind [1]
Stepping: Movement [1]
Ailene Projected Stats & Skills
}Strength: 50 [38]
Speed: 50 [67]
Spiritual Pressure: 50 [75]
Reiatsu Strength: 50 [35]
Instinct: [50]
Senses: [50]
Energy Sensory: [0]
Healing Expertise: [0]
Light Aura - 50
Dark Aura - 50
---------
Pain Tolerance [1]
Battle Analysis [1]
Weapon: Curved Daggers [1]
Shadow Magicks [1]
Calm Mind [1]
Stepping: Movement [1]
{
Strength: 35 [27]
Speed: 25 [33]
Spiritual Pressure: [37]
Reiatsu Strength: 40 [28]
Instinct: [25]
Senses: [25]
Energy Sensory: [0]
Healing Expertise: [0]
Light Aura - 0
Dark Aura - 100
---------
Pain Tolerance [1]
Battle Analysis [1]
Weapon: Curved Daggers [1]
Shadow Magicks [1]
Calm Mind [1]
Stepping: Movement [1]
Mélusine Projected Stats & Skills
}Strength: 35 [27]
Speed: 25 [33]
Spiritual Pressure: [37]
Reiatsu Strength: 40 [28]
Instinct: [25]
Senses: [25]
Energy Sensory: [0]
Healing Expertise: [0]
Light Aura - 0
Dark Aura - 100
---------
Pain Tolerance [1]
Battle Analysis [1]
Weapon: Curved Daggers [1]
Shadow Magicks [1]
Calm Mind [1]
Stepping: Movement [1]
☽ Basic Information ☾
Name: Ailene Haschiro & MélusineReal Age: 27
Birthday: Feburary 24th
Blood Type: A+
☽ Appearance ☾
{
Face Claim: Morgana | League of Legends}
Physical Description: Ailene stands about about five feet, nine inches tall, and weight about one-hundred thirty six pounds. While certainly nowhere near frail, she does not appear to be overly muscular, having a much more petite-feminine look. Ever since losing her powers due to her use of a Saigo No Houmen, Ailene has taken on much more human qualities, sealing her Hollow hole and her mask fragment shattering. Ailene's reiatsu takes on a dark indigo purple, matching the overall coloration of her features such as her hair and eyes. Upon closer inspection, Ailene's reiatsu appears rather balanced, feeling neither cold nor overly soothing.
Ailene appears fairly young at a glance, nowhere past 30. Her skin appears dull and pale though relatively flawless, laking any noticeable blemishes or beauty marks. In fact, Ailene is a rather attractive woman. The iris of her eyes has a fellow indigo hue to match the color of her reiatsu. Having thin eyebrows, a somewhat small nose, and lips colored with purple lipstick, Ailene appears to be the typical punk-rock or goth girl that one would envision when considering those stereotypes.
To further add to this, Ailene's hair is much wilder than before. While she previously held it in a neat bun, only letting her hair down when removing the senbon that kept her hair up for practical purposes, she now has nearly back-length hair. Purple in color to match the tone of both her reiatsu and her eyes, Ailene lets the tips of her hair fall beside her neck, resting around her bust. Ailene also keeps has a bang on the left side of her hair that sometimes covers her eye.
The woman has grown to wear some layer of makeup to enhance her already natural beauty. A thick eyeliner covers her outer eye, lining the upper and lower lid while appearing off around her inner eye. Right below her eyes, she sometimes wears black makeup that almost seems to resemble tears. If the mood strikes her, Ailene has also been known to wear blush to enrich the otherwise pale color of her cheeks. She typically tries to avoid other makeup options such as mascara. In general, Ailene will typically pursue a look that gives her a natural gothic feel.
Ailene's clothing depends entirely upon the scenario. She did not believe in dressing extravagantly for any mere occasion as an Arrancar and this stance has not changed much during her time as a Fullbringer. In fact, usually, Ailene can be found wearing robes, not unlike those that she wore as an Espada. Appearing more like those worn by a mage or a scholar, Ailene typically chooses this style of clothing. For more snowy days, she has been known to dress in more fur. Unlike the traditional Espada robes that she used to wear, the robes she wears now carry a purple tint.
During her time working at Rēgīna, her tea shop, Ailene has found a love for a traditional Japanese Kimono. While on duty, she often wears little else. The kimono that she normally dresses in is white in color with a black obi tied around the waist. Moving down the kimono is a gradient that shifts the color from white to a more blackish hue until it becomes entirely black. Finally, the kimono is decorated with a decal of flowers that are printed on the hem, sleeves, and top of the kimono. These flowers are white in color.
For more extravagant affairs, Ailene has been known to pull out her favorite dress. It is a long purple dress with gold linings that reveal some of her bust, neckline, arms, and even her back. The dress has a slit on the left side, rising from the hem that can allow Ailene to show off some of her leg as well. While she normally still prefers to move around barefoot, the lack of a Hierro that she has grown so accustomed to has forced her to wear shoes. While at Rēgīna, she will wear geta not unlike Shinigami. While wearing her purple dress, however, Ailene leans more towards a pair of purple heels to compliment her dress.
Mélusine is the name given to Ailene's Fractured Spirit by the fragment herself. Unlike Ailene, her appearance is entirely different since she is not a humanoid creature. Quite the opposite as Mélusine appears similar to a black dragon. Normally 2 ft in length, with a wingspan of 3.5 ft, Mélusine has all the qualities that one would expect of a dragon. She possesses sharp talons, razor teeth, a slender tail, and wings. Blackened scales cover her entire body. Her small size is normally maintained since she prefers to merely lay on Ailene's shoulder, her tail hanging off the shoulder's edge.
Much like her counterpart, Mélusine possesses reiatsu. While Ailene possesses a dark indigo purple though, Mélusine's is more akin to a magenta. Unlike Ailene's, however, her reiatsu feels very cold. There is little warmth to it as if she is harboring something truly evil. Her darkened scales radiate black wisps of reiatsu not unlike shadow whenever she is using techniques. Her eyes are much like Ailene's, possessing a white sclera and purple iris. Despite that though, Mélusine appears far more malicious than her balanced counterpart.
Mélusine possesses one uncanny ability as a product of her status as Ailene's Primary Fullbring. Much like how she is able to change her shape into a weapon, Mélusine can also adapt her size at will. Over the course of a few moments, she can change from a freshly hatched baby dragon to that of a young dragon, appearing up to 15 ft in length with an impressive 26 ft wingspan. This can make her seem much less like an idle pet and instead like a fierce and loyal partner. It should be noted that while Mélusine is capable of speech, she much rather chooses to emote. Alternatively, she is able to communicate with Ailene telepathically upon assuming her weapon form.
☽ Personality ☾
Alignment: True Neutral & Neutral Evil
{Likes}
"Ever since Orobas has helped me fund Rēgīna, I think that I have found true happiness. Able to socialize with my patrons and watch their joy upon trying my tea makes me feel so much better. Rēgīna means the absolute world to me and I think I'd be happy spending the rest of my days serving tea."
"I have to admit that using the Saigo No Houmen may very well be the best decision I have ever made. I finally get to feel... normal. I no longer have to fear a Shinigami or even a Quincy coming into my shop or even worse, ambushing me at night while I try to enjoy a good book. Life is good as a human!"
"I will be the first to admit that her disposition can be cold and hell... she can be ruthless, but Mélusine is a fiercely loyal companion. We are now two parts of a greater whole. While we were already linked tightly due to my Resurrecciòn, I feel that our bond is stronger than ever.
"There is something about books that I found so enchanting. Whether it's the allure of getting lost in a fantasy world or merely the joy of experiencing the thoughts of another person through their words, I know not. All I do know is that I could read for hours at a time.
"I run a tea shop. Did you really think that I didn't like tea? It's not just the tea though. It's the way it can lift someone's spirits. How it can brighten their day after whatever tragedy or misery that they may have experienced. It's all so heart-warming to see up close."
"As an Arrancar, I often chose to put out little baked goods. I knew that we did not have to eat, but we merely chose to. Now that I have to eat, I will admit that I have a weakness for any baked good. Especially those little german jelly-filled donuts. Oh, what are they called again..?
"From the moment we met, I could tell that there was something peculiar about Orobas. Perhaps it was just how I thought that his skin was peeling from his form. giggles Regardless of what he has done, I owe him a great debt as the one who helped me realize my dream of opening Rēgīna."
"I will be the first to admit that she can be adversarial... okay. She's very adversarial and she values the lifestyle of an Arrancar, but I do have a certain fondness for Charlotte. Perhaps it's her electrifying charisma or her polite attitude, but among the Espada, she is one I could still consider a friend even if she does not see me the same.
"I don't choose to talk often. I don't know what it is. Perhaps it's because people see it as more of a beast than a functioning sentient creature. Regardless, I have grown fond of emoting. It's always fun to see how people try to make heads or tails of my expressions..."
"I'm a dragon who can grow to be 15 ft in length at will. You better believe that I enjoy scaring the hell out of people. Whether it's merely growling or pretending to eat them. I don't know what it is, but something about fear is so delightful."
"I'll be the first to admit that she is less violent than I would like her to be and if you ask me... I think the whole pacifist thing is a facade, but I do like Ailene. Perhaps its just because I know that someone will always care about me..."
"It's about time that I have a body of my own. It was so boring remaining in Ailene's Zanpakutō, rarely used because she feared what I could do when unleashed. Now I can enjoy as much carnage as I want without needing her "permission" to come out!
"Meat! I love meat! I'm a dragon. Were you expecting me to be a vegetarian?"
"Call it spite, but I really like getting on Ailene's nerves. Whether it's something as simple as knocking over a cup or scaring a patron out of Rēgīna. It's loads of fun to see how she reacts to bashfully to any problem in her "well-structured day".
"Maybe it's just the fact that I have my own body now, but I do like just laying around Rēgīna. Sleeping on the sign... laying on the countertop... just watching the countless fools walk around and waste their pathetic lives away. It's so relaxing."
"Nighttime! It's when the sun skitters away and the shadows come out to play."
"Ever since Orobas has helped me fund Rēgīna, I think that I have found true happiness. Able to socialize with my patrons and watch their joy upon trying my tea makes me feel so much better. Rēgīna means the absolute world to me and I think I'd be happy spending the rest of my days serving tea."
"I have to admit that using the Saigo No Houmen may very well be the best decision I have ever made. I finally get to feel... normal. I no longer have to fear a Shinigami or even a Quincy coming into my shop or even worse, ambushing me at night while I try to enjoy a good book. Life is good as a human!"
"I will be the first to admit that her disposition can be cold and hell... she can be ruthless, but Mélusine is a fiercely loyal companion. We are now two parts of a greater whole. While we were already linked tightly due to my Resurrecciòn, I feel that our bond is stronger than ever.
"There is something about books that I found so enchanting. Whether it's the allure of getting lost in a fantasy world or merely the joy of experiencing the thoughts of another person through their words, I know not. All I do know is that I could read for hours at a time.
"I run a tea shop. Did you really think that I didn't like tea? It's not just the tea though. It's the way it can lift someone's spirits. How it can brighten their day after whatever tragedy or misery that they may have experienced. It's all so heart-warming to see up close."
"As an Arrancar, I often chose to put out little baked goods. I knew that we did not have to eat, but we merely chose to. Now that I have to eat, I will admit that I have a weakness for any baked good. Especially those little german jelly-filled donuts. Oh, what are they called again..?
"From the moment we met, I could tell that there was something peculiar about Orobas. Perhaps it was just how I thought that his skin was peeling from his form. giggles Regardless of what he has done, I owe him a great debt as the one who helped me realize my dream of opening Rēgīna."
"I will be the first to admit that she can be adversarial... okay. She's very adversarial and she values the lifestyle of an Arrancar, but I do have a certain fondness for Charlotte. Perhaps it's her electrifying charisma or her polite attitude, but among the Espada, she is one I could still consider a friend even if she does not see me the same.
"I don't choose to talk often. I don't know what it is. Perhaps it's because people see it as more of a beast than a functioning sentient creature. Regardless, I have grown fond of emoting. It's always fun to see how people try to make heads or tails of my expressions..."
"I'm a dragon who can grow to be 15 ft in length at will. You better believe that I enjoy scaring the hell out of people. Whether it's merely growling or pretending to eat them. I don't know what it is, but something about fear is so delightful."
"I'll be the first to admit that she is less violent than I would like her to be and if you ask me... I think the whole pacifist thing is a facade, but I do like Ailene. Perhaps its just because I know that someone will always care about me..."
"It's about time that I have a body of my own. It was so boring remaining in Ailene's Zanpakutō, rarely used because she feared what I could do when unleashed. Now I can enjoy as much carnage as I want without needing her "permission" to come out!
"Meat! I love meat! I'm a dragon. Were you expecting me to be a vegetarian?"
"Call it spite, but I really like getting on Ailene's nerves. Whether it's something as simple as knocking over a cup or scaring a patron out of Rēgīna. It's loads of fun to see how she reacts to bashfully to any problem in her "well-structured day".
"Maybe it's just the fact that I have my own body now, but I do like just laying around Rēgīna. Sleeping on the sign... laying on the countertop... just watching the countless fools walk around and waste their pathetic lives away. It's so relaxing."
"Nighttime! It's when the sun skitters away and the shadows come out to play."
{Dislikes}
"It's not that I inherently hate Hollows. Quite the opposite, really. Having been a Hollow myself, I am sympathetic to the condition. However, I am unable to look past the gluttonous hunger and desire to spread wanton destruction."
"I can somewhat excuse the behavior of Hollows. Many of them lack true intelligence until they reach the Adjuchas stage. It's the Arrancar that I have to admit that I would truly say that I dislike. Many of them continue to live in the role of the big bad Hollow. I think we can be more, but many seem to disagree. That's why I abandoned that power."
"You know. I still largely dislike Shinigami and Quincy. Both always believe that their way of life is the only acceptable one. Shinigami try to balance souls on the razors' edge, promising them peace, but I've seen the outer districts of the Rukongai. It's nothing more than a facade. The Vandenreich by comparison isn't much better. I find them truly despicable."
"One thing that gets under my skin without fail is a lack of manners. How hard is it to simply be courteous with someone? At least back when I was alive before becoming a Hollow, we knew the meaning of respect."
"I've forsaken my powers to make a better life for myself. The constant violence helped drive me away from the life of an Espada. If it wasn't clear, I hate needless violence."
"Modern technology has its uses, but I find that it makes the brains of my patrons rot. Some of them have forgotten how to hold a conversation..."
"Luca Castebella... what a handful! I tried to deliver a gift basket to him, risking my own life to give it to him personally at Uzaki Enterprises. Not only was he gone when I tried to deliver it, but he even claims to have never received it. Then there was the first time we met. I'll admit, I acted in anger, but couldn't we just let bygones be bygones?"
"I won't lie. What I miss most about being an Arrancar is the ability to get around everywhere! A Garganta was such a useful tool to visit the World of the Living or even the Rukongai. I feel like I'm stuck here in Karakura Town at times..."
Do I hate people? No. I'm not a monster. I hate the fact that I can't just rip their throats out sometimes though! Especially the snotty brats who come in, crying all the damn time."
"I miss being a Hollow. Truly, I do. Having my own body is nice, but often I feel like I'm left to languish here at Rēgīna. Maybe I should sneak out one of these days..."
"You know what I really hate? When someone wakes me up from my sleep. Especially Ailene. She should know better! I tell her every time, but she just tells me that Rēgīna is opening and I can't sleep on the counter. What the hell do I care if some patrons are bothered by me?!
"I know I said I like Ailene, but damn I hate how peaceful she is. In fact... I really don't like peace. Why should I? Beating the hell out of someone is so much more fun. Taking what you want simply because you were stronger. Those were the days... why can't I have those back?!
"Hey! They stole my kill. It was mine fair and square. I should be allowed to sink my teeth into it!"
"Why am I so weak? I used to be strong. Ailene used to fear me. Now, I can't do the things I used to. Even when Ailene unleashes me, I can't do anything. I can only hope that she has the ability to use me effectively. What I wouldn't give to have my own body again!
"I get it. I look like a pet. People wanna pet me, but... why? Can't they just ask first? Thay way I can tell them "Hell no" and no feelings are hurt. Well... that's assuming that I'll be nice about it...
"Shinigami and Quincy. Self-righteous and arrogant to a fault. It makes me sick. The Shinigami protect some pathetic cycle and Quincy merely wish the extinction of anything that isn't them. Sure, Hollows aren't too different, but we have power. We should be able to make claims such as that."
"It's not that I inherently hate Hollows. Quite the opposite, really. Having been a Hollow myself, I am sympathetic to the condition. However, I am unable to look past the gluttonous hunger and desire to spread wanton destruction."
"I can somewhat excuse the behavior of Hollows. Many of them lack true intelligence until they reach the Adjuchas stage. It's the Arrancar that I have to admit that I would truly say that I dislike. Many of them continue to live in the role of the big bad Hollow. I think we can be more, but many seem to disagree. That's why I abandoned that power."
"You know. I still largely dislike Shinigami and Quincy. Both always believe that their way of life is the only acceptable one. Shinigami try to balance souls on the razors' edge, promising them peace, but I've seen the outer districts of the Rukongai. It's nothing more than a facade. The Vandenreich by comparison isn't much better. I find them truly despicable."
"One thing that gets under my skin without fail is a lack of manners. How hard is it to simply be courteous with someone? At least back when I was alive before becoming a Hollow, we knew the meaning of respect."
"I've forsaken my powers to make a better life for myself. The constant violence helped drive me away from the life of an Espada. If it wasn't clear, I hate needless violence."
"Modern technology has its uses, but I find that it makes the brains of my patrons rot. Some of them have forgotten how to hold a conversation..."
"Luca Castebella... what a handful! I tried to deliver a gift basket to him, risking my own life to give it to him personally at Uzaki Enterprises. Not only was he gone when I tried to deliver it, but he even claims to have never received it. Then there was the first time we met. I'll admit, I acted in anger, but couldn't we just let bygones be bygones?"
"I won't lie. What I miss most about being an Arrancar is the ability to get around everywhere! A Garganta was such a useful tool to visit the World of the Living or even the Rukongai. I feel like I'm stuck here in Karakura Town at times..."
Do I hate people? No. I'm not a monster. I hate the fact that I can't just rip their throats out sometimes though! Especially the snotty brats who come in, crying all the damn time."
"I miss being a Hollow. Truly, I do. Having my own body is nice, but often I feel like I'm left to languish here at Rēgīna. Maybe I should sneak out one of these days..."
"You know what I really hate? When someone wakes me up from my sleep. Especially Ailene. She should know better! I tell her every time, but she just tells me that Rēgīna is opening and I can't sleep on the counter. What the hell do I care if some patrons are bothered by me?!
"I know I said I like Ailene, but damn I hate how peaceful she is. In fact... I really don't like peace. Why should I? Beating the hell out of someone is so much more fun. Taking what you want simply because you were stronger. Those were the days... why can't I have those back?!
"Hey! They stole my kill. It was mine fair and square. I should be allowed to sink my teeth into it!"
"Why am I so weak? I used to be strong. Ailene used to fear me. Now, I can't do the things I used to. Even when Ailene unleashes me, I can't do anything. I can only hope that she has the ability to use me effectively. What I wouldn't give to have my own body again!
"I get it. I look like a pet. People wanna pet me, but... why? Can't they just ask first? Thay way I can tell them "Hell no" and no feelings are hurt. Well... that's assuming that I'll be nice about it...
"Shinigami and Quincy. Self-righteous and arrogant to a fault. It makes me sick. The Shinigami protect some pathetic cycle and Quincy merely wish the extinction of anything that isn't them. Sure, Hollows aren't too different, but we have power. We should be able to make claims such as that."
{Flaws}
"I understand and accept that I try to appease people, even those that would have me killed, too much at times. I can roll over just to make others happy. It's a part of who I am. Unfortunately, it can lead to my own detriment. I really should work on that..."
"I'll admit it. I can be a bitch. I can be vindictive. There are times when I just want to kill someone over little things. I know I'm not the only one though! There are others far more violent than me. Even on a daily basis. I should be allowed to be spiteful at times!"
"I can be condescending at times. I've lived for several centuries, traveled the world, and have collected a fantastic collection of wonderful items. Can you blame me for thinking that I understand the world better than others who barely leave their own house?
"My goals have always been... small. When Orobas wanted to invade Soul Society, I focused on getting my affairs in order to prepare the grand opening of Rēgīna. Sometimes I thin that I should have been by his side, but... those days are behind me. Can't change the past."
"I have a short temper. I admit it. But so what. Some bastards just deserve a good killing. Back when I was an Arrancar with Ailene, I did not need to worry about such things. I simply killed as I pleased when Ailene needed to call upon our power."
"I swear to the Three Realms and any that exist beyond it that if anyone who isn't Ailene should dare to interrupt my rest, they will pay a grave price. I am ready to kill over my sleep!
"Despite my weakened form, I still hold some power over Ailene. She cannot access her Primary Fullbring unless I will it alongside her. Should she ever cross me, she will have another thing coming. Perhaps I'll help after watching her get beat to a pulp a few times."
"I am adventurous. I know that I should lie low at times. After all, I'm sure that there are people who would love to get their hands on a talking dragon, but should I be cursed till the end of our days to wither away at Rēgīna. I think not!
"I understand and accept that I try to appease people, even those that would have me killed, too much at times. I can roll over just to make others happy. It's a part of who I am. Unfortunately, it can lead to my own detriment. I really should work on that..."
"I'll admit it. I can be a bitch. I can be vindictive. There are times when I just want to kill someone over little things. I know I'm not the only one though! There are others far more violent than me. Even on a daily basis. I should be allowed to be spiteful at times!"
"I can be condescending at times. I've lived for several centuries, traveled the world, and have collected a fantastic collection of wonderful items. Can you blame me for thinking that I understand the world better than others who barely leave their own house?
"My goals have always been... small. When Orobas wanted to invade Soul Society, I focused on getting my affairs in order to prepare the grand opening of Rēgīna. Sometimes I thin that I should have been by his side, but... those days are behind me. Can't change the past."
"I have a short temper. I admit it. But so what. Some bastards just deserve a good killing. Back when I was an Arrancar with Ailene, I did not need to worry about such things. I simply killed as I pleased when Ailene needed to call upon our power."
"I swear to the Three Realms and any that exist beyond it that if anyone who isn't Ailene should dare to interrupt my rest, they will pay a grave price. I am ready to kill over my sleep!
"Despite my weakened form, I still hold some power over Ailene. She cannot access her Primary Fullbring unless I will it alongside her. Should she ever cross me, she will have another thing coming. Perhaps I'll help after watching her get beat to a pulp a few times."
"I am adventurous. I know that I should lie low at times. After all, I'm sure that there are people who would love to get their hands on a talking dragon, but should I be cursed till the end of our days to wither away at Rēgīna. I think not!
{Habits}
"I've dug my head into books for years. I can usually be found reading, losing myself in the world that another has written for me. I can ready anything from anthologies of poetry, to nonfiction, even medical journals though I fear that I understand them less than I used to."
"I have this nasty little habit of wanting everything to be neat and tidy. It doesn't necessarily need to be sterile, but I just want everything to be how I found it. I expect this even of my customers. Just neatly place your cups and plates near one another."
"I have been known to become lost in my own thoughts. I have a very vivid imagination and, much to my own chagrin, try to pick apart everything from a person to even the conversation that we are having. It can make me seem aloof."
"You know what I really like to do, but is more of a little tick? Tapping my fingers. Preferably in a comfortable rhythm. I find that it helps me clear my thoughts and relax when the stress becomes too much."
"I love sleep. At times it makes me feel like a slumbering dragon looking after her hoard. I will sleep all day on occasion assuming that Ailene does not bother me. She always tells me not to fall asleep on the counter..."
"Emoting. I am capable of talking, but I prefer remaining an enigma to those I meet. Some people struggle to make heads or tails of my true intentions. Besides, I find that my very presence can be unsettling to people."
"Call me a bit of a sadist, but I like to play with my food. I love to make others squeal in agony before delivering the finishing touch and watching the life drift away from their body. Fresh plus is the most delectable!"
"While idle, I've been seen to simply stare others down. Why you may ask? It's to become a better hunter! A good hunter keeps an eye on their prey, studies them, makes note of their every weakness. I don't hunt everyone I see, but I find that practice makes perfect."
"I've dug my head into books for years. I can usually be found reading, losing myself in the world that another has written for me. I can ready anything from anthologies of poetry, to nonfiction, even medical journals though I fear that I understand them less than I used to."
"I have this nasty little habit of wanting everything to be neat and tidy. It doesn't necessarily need to be sterile, but I just want everything to be how I found it. I expect this even of my customers. Just neatly place your cups and plates near one another."
"I have been known to become lost in my own thoughts. I have a very vivid imagination and, much to my own chagrin, try to pick apart everything from a person to even the conversation that we are having. It can make me seem aloof."
"You know what I really like to do, but is more of a little tick? Tapping my fingers. Preferably in a comfortable rhythm. I find that it helps me clear my thoughts and relax when the stress becomes too much."
"I love sleep. At times it makes me feel like a slumbering dragon looking after her hoard. I will sleep all day on occasion assuming that Ailene does not bother me. She always tells me not to fall asleep on the counter..."
"Emoting. I am capable of talking, but I prefer remaining an enigma to those I meet. Some people struggle to make heads or tails of my true intentions. Besides, I find that my very presence can be unsettling to people."
"Call me a bit of a sadist, but I like to play with my food. I love to make others squeal in agony before delivering the finishing touch and watching the life drift away from their body. Fresh plus is the most delectable!"
"While idle, I've been seen to simply stare others down. Why you may ask? It's to become a better hunter! A good hunter keeps an eye on their prey, studies them, makes note of their every weakness. I don't hunt everyone I see, but I find that practice makes perfect."
{Fears}
"Being an Arrancar afforded me a far more durable body. Now, as a human, I am as mortal as any man. I already died once and I have a vivid memory of it thanks to Kazuna. The last regrets. Choking on my own blood. Feeling my own life slip away. It's chilling. I hope to never experience such pain again."
"I've given up much to now live a life of relative peace. Rēgīna is one of the only things that I have left. Should I ever lose Rēgīna, I fear that I will never be the same again."
"Even before Mélusine came to be, I've always been fragmented. Kazuna and Eleana gave their lives to create me. Unfortunately, my memories are still gone. I fear that they are forever lost to me. That I can never reflect on the person that I once was."
"I'd say that my biggest fear is if Ailene were to die. It's not because I'm sentimental or anything. No. I'm merely concerned about being forever cursed to reside in this weakened form. I am a part of a greater whole. I do not know what happens if my other half were to cease to exist."
"I fear that with how Ailene is, I will never taste the thrill of domination again. She's too... peaceful. I want to taste Hollow flesh again. I want to kill and maim to my heart's content. I fear that I will never be able to experience my old life again."
"I am afraid that others will begin to look down on me. They will see me as nothing more than a pet. An accessory to Ailene. I am my own person even if I am merely a fragment of hers. I fear that I will one day fade into the background."
"Being an Arrancar afforded me a far more durable body. Now, as a human, I am as mortal as any man. I already died once and I have a vivid memory of it thanks to Kazuna. The last regrets. Choking on my own blood. Feeling my own life slip away. It's chilling. I hope to never experience such pain again."
"I've given up much to now live a life of relative peace. Rēgīna is one of the only things that I have left. Should I ever lose Rēgīna, I fear that I will never be the same again."
"Even before Mélusine came to be, I've always been fragmented. Kazuna and Eleana gave their lives to create me. Unfortunately, my memories are still gone. I fear that they are forever lost to me. That I can never reflect on the person that I once was."
"I'd say that my biggest fear is if Ailene were to die. It's not because I'm sentimental or anything. No. I'm merely concerned about being forever cursed to reside in this weakened form. I am a part of a greater whole. I do not know what happens if my other half were to cease to exist."
"I fear that with how Ailene is, I will never taste the thrill of domination again. She's too... peaceful. I want to taste Hollow flesh again. I want to kill and maim to my heart's content. I fear that I will never be able to experience my old life again."
"I am afraid that others will begin to look down on me. They will see me as nothing more than a pet. An accessory to Ailene. I am my own person even if I am merely a fragment of hers. I fear that I will one day fade into the background."
{Goals}
"Rēgīna is a small business. I've never wanted to draw too much attention to myself for fear of others finding out that I am a Hollow. However, now that I am rid of that accursed life, I can think about expanding! Perhaps one day I will even be able to expand into Soul Society! While doubtful, perhaps I can find a place in Hueco Mundo as well. It would be nice to offer the more eccentric Hollows a taste of my brew."
It was only recently that Mélusine appeared to me. As my Fullbring, her potential is limited. However, perhaps there is more to her? Perhaps much like Arrancar, there is a form beyond this that I can strive for. I never really felt that I needed to improve. As an Arrancar, I was already at the peak of my ability. Perhaps it is time I change that. I am weak and I need to be able to defend Rēgīna when the time comes.
"In the last few years of my time among the Espada, I found that there weren't really any that understood me. However, there is one among them that I have grown fond of. A Charlotte Bucker, the Primera Espada. I would look forward to maintaining consistent contact with her. After all, it was thanks to her that I was able to express my hate for my existence as a Hollow. I have her to thank for finding the drive to make changes."
"Once more, I find myself being a spiritual weapon. Unlike before, however, I am the vessel for its form. My strength is limited. I am not what I used to be. I can sense that there is more to my abilities. I have to seize the opportunities to improve myself wherever possible. I can sense that Ailene desires it too. After all, she wants to be able to defend Rēgīna if she ever had to."
"Being a dragon is nice, but I would love to be able to walk around in a humanoid body of my own. I feel like that Mod Soul I once met... what was her name again? Oh yeah! Shio. She was a plushie when I met her. Perhaps she could be of assistance in helping me with a Gigai. If there is a way for me to possess one then I would happily do so."
"If ever possible, I want a taste of my old life again. I want to be feared among Shinigami, Quincy, and Hollows alike. Even if it means I have to fight by Ailene's side. She may be a Fullbringer now, but we were once among the strongest Arrancar in Las Noches. Hell, in Hueco Mundo. Our names should leave others trembling in fear!
"Rēgīna is a small business. I've never wanted to draw too much attention to myself for fear of others finding out that I am a Hollow. However, now that I am rid of that accursed life, I can think about expanding! Perhaps one day I will even be able to expand into Soul Society! While doubtful, perhaps I can find a place in Hueco Mundo as well. It would be nice to offer the more eccentric Hollows a taste of my brew."
It was only recently that Mélusine appeared to me. As my Fullbring, her potential is limited. However, perhaps there is more to her? Perhaps much like Arrancar, there is a form beyond this that I can strive for. I never really felt that I needed to improve. As an Arrancar, I was already at the peak of my ability. Perhaps it is time I change that. I am weak and I need to be able to defend Rēgīna when the time comes.
"In the last few years of my time among the Espada, I found that there weren't really any that understood me. However, there is one among them that I have grown fond of. A Charlotte Bucker, the Primera Espada. I would look forward to maintaining consistent contact with her. After all, it was thanks to her that I was able to express my hate for my existence as a Hollow. I have her to thank for finding the drive to make changes."
"Once more, I find myself being a spiritual weapon. Unlike before, however, I am the vessel for its form. My strength is limited. I am not what I used to be. I can sense that there is more to my abilities. I have to seize the opportunities to improve myself wherever possible. I can sense that Ailene desires it too. After all, she wants to be able to defend Rēgīna if she ever had to."
"Being a dragon is nice, but I would love to be able to walk around in a humanoid body of my own. I feel like that Mod Soul I once met... what was her name again? Oh yeah! Shio. She was a plushie when I met her. Perhaps she could be of assistance in helping me with a Gigai. If there is a way for me to possess one then I would happily do so."
"If ever possible, I want a taste of my old life again. I want to be feared among Shinigami, Quincy, and Hollows alike. Even if it means I have to fight by Ailene's side. She may be a Fullbringer now, but we were once among the strongest Arrancar in Las Noches. Hell, in Hueco Mundo. Our names should leave others trembling in fear!
Overall Personality: Ailene even as an Arrancar was a gentle soul who tried to find non-violent solutions to conflict. Losing her powers as a consequence of Saigo No Houmen has not dulled her calm nature one bit. Even when faced with conflict, she will try to find a solution that both parties can enjoy. Whether this requires her to get a little rough with others to get the point across though is something that she decides on a case-by-case basis. She tends to be an extremely good judge of character, being incredibly empathetic to the point of being able to sense the problems of others.
At her very core, Ailene can be described as an incredibly patient woman. Even those who test her patience will have a hard time getting a solid negative reaction from her. In general, if there is a positive side to the situation, she will aim to focus on it almost exclusively, only dealing with the negative to frame it in a positive light. In this way, Ailene can seem very therapeutic. At the same time, however, she can also be seen as overly jolly, unable, or even unwilling to see the bad in others. There are notable exceptions but she generally is able to isolate the good in others.
Ailene can at times be incredibly modest. Even as an Arrancar, she did not like to flex her position as an Espada with the lower-class Hollows or even opponents. She found quickly that other Espada such as Arcadus were incredibly arrogant which she felt clouded their ability to communicate with others. As a result, Ailene has grown to avoid foolish posturing. Such activities are for the horribly insecure to make themselves feel bigger and badder than they actually are. More than anything, she loves to create strong and meaningful relationships with others. Especially now that she has come face-to-face with the realization that she is now mortal.
Despite her positive disposition, there are still some things that can make Ailene poor company. First and foremost are interruptions. She absolutely hates being interrupted while attempting to finish a thought. She will always listen to others even if their point would take several centuries to make. Poor manners are another quality that is sure to get under her skin. She tries not to wish ill will upon others, but poor manners will surely give her cause to drop some nasty comments. If she has little respect for them, then some may even be said behind their backs. Her most unforgivable sin of all, however, is twisting her words. It is a way to instantly gain her ire.
Even though she hates some level of hate towards the life and philosophies that Hollows represent, Ailene is sympathetic towards them. She feels that they were dealt a cruel hand, forced to endure a ravenous hunger and a life of bloodshed. It is for this reason that she also feels pity for them. Should Ailene come across a Hollow, she will do her best not to bother them. Should they attack her, she will defend herself, however, she will do her best not to maim them in any way. After all, the consequence would be a life of stagnation. Should she ever be forced to harm a Hollow in any meaningful way, Ailene will make use of a purification blade to purify their soul and send them to Soul Society. She will do the same with plus no matter the context.
In combat, Ailene will continue to practice patience and good judgment. If she feels that there is a way to end a fight peacefully, she will pursue that avenue with ruthless passion. However, there are times when such a goal is impossible. Should harm ever come to Mélusine or Rēgīna then all bets are off. In those cases, Ailene will throw any hope of peaceful resolution away. Using her skill with daggers, Ailene will simply aim to incapacitate her foe as quickly as possible. In the most severe of cases, she will even resort to lethal blows should she feel that their aim to harm those she holds dear be malicious.
Contrasting the balance of her soul, Mélusine, is the manifestation of the soul that was trapped inside Ailene's Zanpakutō. Compared to Ailene, Mélusine is a vicious and cruel soul. While Ailene seeks to find peaceful solutions, she would rather end the problem by maiming or extreme cases, even killing those who oppose her. The only reason that Mélusine does not go around laying waste to whatever she can find is due to Ailene's constant effort to hold her back.
Once being a Hollow, Mélusine, possesses an appetite for destruction and chaos. Given Ailene's efforts to curb her more vicious streaks, the spirit has instead sought to cause mischief in whatever way she can. This can be something as small as knocking a glass off of the counter to scare the hell out of those who can't see her to purposely laying places that are sure to get on the nerves of others. In this way, Mélusine, can seem like much of a brat. Even if the dragon did not engage in these behaviors, her very presence and reaitsu are almost chilling to the bone. Her aura could rival that of hellions such as Orobas.
Despite her constant argument with Ailene and their opposing views on the values of life, the fractured spirit cares for Ailene. Even if it is begrudging at times. While she would never admit it, she'd do what she could to protect the Fullbringer. After all, they are halves of a greater whole. In fact, one of her favorite places to rest is laying across Ailene's shoulder. She will do this at many points while Ailene is engaging in a leisure activity such as reading or even talking. Sometimes she will even purr softly.
If ever met in battle, however, Mélusine can be an entirely different beast from Ailene. While Ailene's aggression is largely conditional, Mélusine relishes crushing her foes, doing anything in her power to make them understand the depth of her ability. Even if it means submitting herself to Ailene and becoming a weapon, she will constantly give Ailene advice on how to most gruesomely kill their opponent. She can be quite the loose cannon. So much so that Ailene often fears that she will one day run off and find herself in trouble.
☽ Powers ☾
Fighting Style: When locked in combat, Ailene's fighting styles changes based on a few factors. The first of which is how serious she is prepared to take the fight. As mentioned before, Ailene is a gentle spirit who would prefer to avoid combat entirely if at all possible. In fact, Ailene is not likely to even harm her opponent if she feels that she can talk them down. Having been afforded far greater agility than before, Ailene will aim to simply dodge attacks if at all possible against those that are slower than her. If it comes down to it, Ailene is perfectly willing to draw her weapon and defend herself, clashing blades, if she still feels that she can get through to her opponent.
The second condition is entirely dependent on whether she is fighting alongside Mélusine. While it would be next to impossible to separate the two, Ailene would merely try to avoid any engagement assuming that she is without Mélusine given that the fractured spirit also doubles as her Fullbring. On the topic of Mélusine, her fighting is both complementary and separate from Ailene's own. Possessing impressive agility in her own right, either can act as an effective distraction while the other swoops in from a different angle. After all, it is much harder to fight a war on two fronts. Mélusine's style of fighting is, however, far more aggressive than Ailene's own. While the Fullbringer merely aims to avoid blows, Mélusine is far more likely to strike at her foes.
It should be noted that while their sealed combat is somewhat limited, the two do have some tricks up their sleeves. Despite not having impressive Strength, either combatant can utilize Combat Cutback to artificially increase their striking force. Upon doing so, both combatants are far more likely to enter a close range, delivering a flurry of relentless strikes from two entirely different angles. Against weaker opponents, Ailene can use techniques such as Energy Generate: Current along with a metal blade like her Purification Blade to electrocute opponents not unlike how an Arrancar uses Electrica. The ability to charge the environment and unleash bolts of electricity that act like Byakurai allows for Ailene to set up opportunities for sneaky attacks.
As a Fullbringer, Ailene lacks the natural firepower of the many Cero she learned or even the occasional Bala. In fact, Ailene will sometimes instinctually attempt to fire a Cero or harness the raw energy of Cero Lightning, but to no effect. To add to this conundrum, her lack of Hierro leaves her form incredibly frail to those with much higher physical Strength, forcing Ailene to always stay on the move. As this can prove naturally tiresome, Ailene can utilize Tsukarenai to more effectively converse her limited stamina while moving at incredibly high Speeds. Regarless, she has to recover from the instinct to use the techniques she was so used to utilizing as an Arrancar.
There are times when Ailene has to call upon her Primary Fullbring. This is the point when she believes that she simply requires the extra versatility it provides. Starting at Level One, Visions of Maddening Shadows does not change Ailene's overall strategy too much though there is a much greater focus on striking the foe with her Fullbring. Becoming a curved dagger, Ailene uses its unique shape to not only stab but also slash at her opponents. Able to use the edge like a sickle, Ailene can attempt to dig her blade into her opponent's flesh. From there she can attempt to manipulate their limb with incredible efficiency, almost as if she were puppeteering them.
As mentioned before, Ailene's singular goal is to try and land as many hits as she can with her Fullbring. Each hit draws the opponent further and further into madness. This is especially effective at disrupting opponents who rely on Kido incarnations or use overly complex weapons. Being drawn into the depths of insanity warps the mind and disrupts focus. Visual and auditory hallucinations serve to distract the opponent while their muddled mind makes it more difficult to utilize their specialized skills, particularly if they take pride in their analytical mind or their sword hand. As an aside, Ailene also gains a bolt of shadow magick that may send out at her opponent, not unlike a bala or byakurai.
Activating Fullbring Level Two gives Ailene access to an array of new abilities that can allow her not only to overwhelm her opponent but also to control the battlefield with a new weapon. Becoming more akin to a traditional curved dagger, Ailene can simply dig the serrated weapon into her opponent, shearing their flesh with the added protrusions of the side. It also gives Ailene a slew of new properties to take advantage of. The most versatile of which is without a doubt, Shadow Weaving. By allowing her to effectively infuse shadows with her own reiatsu, Ailene is able to create long shadow claws to strike at her opponents. Able to create multiple at a time, Ailene is able to turn any shadow into a razor pit, tearing into her opponents with ruthless efficiency. An added benefit is that the claws can restrain opponents, allowing her to do as she pleases with their reduced range of motion.
Shadow Weaving also gives Ailene the opportunity to create weapons other than her Fullbring out of pure shadow. Not only does this allow her to vary the types of weapons that she can fashion, but she can use these shadow weapons nearly as effectively as her Fullbring. The true power behind Shadow Weaving is the ability to create living shadows. Shadowlings, creatures made of pure darkness, follow Ailene's every command. Each of them able to be tailored to Ailene's needs with physical characteristics such as wings, but allowing them to focus on specific fields such as creating an elusive panther to fashioning a durable bear. As each construct is able to interact with the opponent's shadow can significantly enhance these shadows' ability to land their mark.
The 2nd property, Devouring Shadows, acts as both a powerful AoE attack or even a durable defensive option for Ailene. Able to bend the shadows to her will, Ailene is even able to make them detonate into a sphere of powerful shadow-infused purple flames. Ailene can even elect to detonate her own shadowlings for a powerful mobile explosion. Alternatively, this property allows Ailene to even wear her shadows like armor, letting her ward off powerful blows. She is even able to enhance the durability of the armor using a resource that she accumulates besides reiatsu, Insanity. This allows her to face even the strongest of foes head-on, able to shrug off a blow or two.
The final property, Embrace of the Void, effectively allows Ailene to create her own shadows on demand by infusing her non-release techniques with shadow magick. Doing so allows her to bolster the power of these techniques while tainting the world around her with a shadow aura. This shadow aura allows her to use her abilities liberally. It also eases the burden on reiatsu management as she may elect to utilize her Insanity to fuel the cost of these techniques. Overall, these three properties allow Ailene to accomplish so much more than she could otherwise do alone with only Mélusine at her side.
Her Secondary Fullbring, Surrender to Madness, allows Ailene to further warp the mind of her opponent while also awarding her a safeguard against even the most grievous of wounds should her Primary Fullbring be active. By spawning tentacles made of pure shadow not unlike those made by Shadow Weaving, it grants Ailene another avenue to utterly overwhelm her opponent. Numerous and durable, these tentacles can lengthen to an incredible agree, allowing Ailene to effectively fight as a mid-range fighter before closing the distance and switching to close-range on a dime. Her two properties help keep her opponent on their toes as well.
Thoughtsteal serves as a method for Ailene to rend the best parts of their fighting style from them. Able to temporarily steal the memory of how to use a particular technique, Ailene can then take that knowledge for herself, using a bastardization of the opponent's own abilities. Using her own abilities to substitute necessary skills can make it a little more difficult to utilize the stolen techniques, but in some cases, she can use them just as well if not better than her opponent as she takes the very memory of how to effectively apply the technique. Unfortunately, this can be drawn short by destroying the tentacles which serve as a repository of these memories.
Her final property, Lucid Dreaming, can allow Ailene to ward off even a fatal injury if she has access to the shadowlings of her Primary Fullbring. Able to transcend the boundaries of flesh, sending her own spirit into an existing shadowling, Ailene can effectively possess her own creations as she rejuvenates her own body. Able to use this powerful ability a single time before requiring a rest period, Ailene will, at this point, judge whether it's a good idea to retreat or not. While she can press the advantage of effectively recovering from death itself, it may not be advisable. When all of her skills are utilized in tandem with another though, the opponent may find it difficult to make it past the relentless onslaught of ravenous shadows that always hunger for more.
Primary Fullbring Name: Visions of Maddening Shadows
{Primary Fullbring Appearances}
{Sealed Primary Fullbring}
When a Fullbringer attaints their Fullbring, it normally takes the form of a treasured item; their reiatsu infused into the item before they attained their powers. Ailene's Fullbring is somewhat more unique in this regard as it takes the form of a living creature. Having formed from the soul that was brought out whenever activating her Resurrección, her Primary Fullbring takes the form of a dragon. Fiercely loyal, but seemingly with a mind of her own, Mélusine traditionally remains close by Ailene's side at any given point in time.
As a dragon, Mélusine possesses all the qualities that one would expect. Blackened scales, a slender tail, talons, and wings. Naturally sitting at a length of 2ft. This allows her to rest lazily upon Ailene's shoulder when she wishes. Possessing a wingspan of 3.5 ft, Mélusine is capable of natural flight up to her speed. Her darkened scales give her a somewhat menacing look which is further compounded when Mélusine utilizes reiatsu. When she does, faint whisps of shadow briefly cling to her body before rising and dissipating. This can give her the appearance of a wispy creature of reiatsu.
It should be noted that Mélusine has an extremely uncanny ability that is granted to her by being a living Fullbring. She has the strange ability to modify her size over the course of a post for various purposes. Able to make herself smaller or larger as long as she has enough Strength to match the thresholds for unnatural height, she may change within those parameters. This can allow her to sometimes lazily rest upon Ailene's shoulder, seeming as nothing more than a familiar to being able to appear as large as a young dragon. While she dislikes it, these larger sizes allow her to at times to be ridden.
When a Fullbringer attaints their Fullbring, it normally takes the form of a treasured item; their reiatsu infused into the item before they attained their powers. Ailene's Fullbring is somewhat more unique in this regard as it takes the form of a living creature. Having formed from the soul that was brought out whenever activating her Resurrección, her Primary Fullbring takes the form of a dragon. Fiercely loyal, but seemingly with a mind of her own, Mélusine traditionally remains close by Ailene's side at any given point in time.
As a dragon, Mélusine possesses all the qualities that one would expect. Blackened scales, a slender tail, talons, and wings. Naturally sitting at a length of 2ft. This allows her to rest lazily upon Ailene's shoulder when she wishes. Possessing a wingspan of 3.5 ft, Mélusine is capable of natural flight up to her speed. Her darkened scales give her a somewhat menacing look which is further compounded when Mélusine utilizes reiatsu. When she does, faint whisps of shadow briefly cling to her body before rising and dissipating. This can give her the appearance of a wispy creature of reiatsu.
It should be noted that Mélusine has an extremely uncanny ability that is granted to her by being a living Fullbring. She has the strange ability to modify her size over the course of a post for various purposes. Able to make herself smaller or larger as long as she has enough Strength to match the thresholds for unnatural height, she may change within those parameters. This can allow her to sometimes lazily rest upon Ailene's shoulder, seeming as nothing more than a familiar to being able to appear as large as a young dragon. While she dislikes it, these larger sizes allow her to at times to be ridden.
{Primary Fullbring Level 1}
Serving as a Fullbring, Mélusine is able to change her shape into Visions of Maddening Shadows upon Ailene's command. Appearing akin to a sickle, this weapon can also be used as a dagger. The overall design of the blade forms an "S" shape. The bottom of the dagger has a brown hilt built in between the middle and bottom curves of the S shape. The outside of the hilt has small carvings etched into it. The actual blade that connects the hilt has spike-like protrusions that allow it to still be used as a weapon not unlike brass knuckles though this is not the primary purpose of the weapon.
The top half of the S provides a more sickled look for the dagger. A slightly jagged and worn edge should not fool anyone as the blade itself is still razor sharp. In fact, the curve of the blade is perfect for digging into flesh and hooking in, allowing Ailene to potentially trap and manipulate limbs not unlike how a Sai traps weapons. The inside of the upper half of the dagger has intricate purple runes etched into it. The overall shape of the dagger takes on a much darker purple, not unlike the coloration of Ailene's reiatsu. The most notable feature of Visions of Maddening Shadows is a purple jewel that is locked in the middle of the dagger right above the brown hilt. This jewel is shaped like an eye, containing a purple sclera, yellow iris, and black pupil. At times, the eye itself will look around.
Serving as a Fullbring, Mélusine is able to change her shape into Visions of Maddening Shadows upon Ailene's command. Appearing akin to a sickle, this weapon can also be used as a dagger. The overall design of the blade forms an "S" shape. The bottom of the dagger has a brown hilt built in between the middle and bottom curves of the S shape. The outside of the hilt has small carvings etched into it. The actual blade that connects the hilt has spike-like protrusions that allow it to still be used as a weapon not unlike brass knuckles though this is not the primary purpose of the weapon.
The top half of the S provides a more sickled look for the dagger. A slightly jagged and worn edge should not fool anyone as the blade itself is still razor sharp. In fact, the curve of the blade is perfect for digging into flesh and hooking in, allowing Ailene to potentially trap and manipulate limbs not unlike how a Sai traps weapons. The inside of the upper half of the dagger has intricate purple runes etched into it. The overall shape of the dagger takes on a much darker purple, not unlike the coloration of Ailene's reiatsu. The most notable feature of Visions of Maddening Shadows is a purple jewel that is locked in the middle of the dagger right above the brown hilt. This jewel is shaped like an eye, containing a purple sclera, yellow iris, and black pupil. At times, the eye itself will look around.
{Primary Fullbring Level 2}
Upon assuming Level Two, Visions of Maddening Shadows becomes an even stranger weapon to those unfamiliar with Ailene's abilities. In fact, the only normal aspect of the weapon is that it turns from an almost sickle-like dagger to more of a curved dagger. The dagger possesses a hilt that curves at the very end. The guard of the blade has three distinct sections of various sizes, the upper two of which almost seem to be part of the blade. The blade itself has various jagged protrusions that give the blade a look akin to a sacrificial dagger that would be used in occult rituals.
Among the various protrusions, there are several spikes along most of the upper half of the blade. These do not dull its sharpness. As one would expect, should the dagger dig into flesh, the spikes on the end would be sure to repeatedly rend and shear any flesh that the side of the dagger would touch which if left unchecked would produce even more vicious wounds. The once eyelike jewel has since become a set of three eyes, the middle of which is the biggest, residing upon the lower end of the blade. Each has a bloodshot appearance and can be sometimes caught wiggling and looking around. These eyes possess a white sclera, purple iris and black pupil.
Upon assuming Level Two, Visions of Maddening Shadows becomes an even stranger weapon to those unfamiliar with Ailene's abilities. In fact, the only normal aspect of the weapon is that it turns from an almost sickle-like dagger to more of a curved dagger. The dagger possesses a hilt that curves at the very end. The guard of the blade has three distinct sections of various sizes, the upper two of which almost seem to be part of the blade. The blade itself has various jagged protrusions that give the blade a look akin to a sacrificial dagger that would be used in occult rituals.
Among the various protrusions, there are several spikes along most of the upper half of the blade. These do not dull its sharpness. As one would expect, should the dagger dig into flesh, the spikes on the end would be sure to repeatedly rend and shear any flesh that the side of the dagger would touch which if left unchecked would produce even more vicious wounds. The once eyelike jewel has since become a set of three eyes, the middle of which is the biggest, residing upon the lower end of the blade. Each has a bloodshot appearance and can be sometimes caught wiggling and looking around. These eyes possess a white sclera, purple iris and black pupil.
{Primary Fullbring Level 1 Property}
Visions of Maddening Shadows is a Fullbring that allows Ailene to gradually warp the minds of those she comes into contact with. Upon releasing her Fullbring, Ailene begins accumulating a secondary resource known as Insanity. By default, Ailene can utilize this Insanity in lieu of reiatsu for covering costs applicable to her release. When using Insanity to refresh her release duration, the cost is doubled. Every post, 2% Insanity is generated; this is increased to 4% with Level 2. Should Ailene ever generate an amount that causes her pool to exceed its maximum, the extra Insanity is lost. Additionally, when her abilities are cast with Insanity instead of reiatsu, they become empowered. These costs are always the same as the reiatsu cost unless specified otherwise. This pool of Insanity acts like a buffer, always draining before Ailene's reaitsu unless she wills otherwise. If she were to be subject to an effect where reiatsu is lost by abilities other than her own, the amount is always deducted from Insanity first. If Insanity were to be drained, the opponent gains no reiatsu and instead adds an equal amount of Insanity to their pool. Should Ailene drop to 0 reiatsu, she still loses consciousness no matter how much Insanity she has stored up.
Visions of Maddening Whispers does not merely affect Ailene alone. Opponents who face Ailene must keep an eye on their own mental state lest they descend into madness. Each time an opponent or an aspect of their release comes into contact with Ailene's Fullbring or an extension thereof, they gain 2% Insanity; this is increased to 4% with Level 2. The maximum amount of Insanity that they can accrue is equivalent to their maximum reiatsu. Unlike with Ailene, however, this serves only as consequence and can create detrimental effects once they accrue certain thresholds of Insanity. Additionally, as victims are driven further and further into madness, Ailene gains an increase in her passive Insanity generation.
Visions of Maddening Shadows also gives Ailene access to limited shadow magicks that only become more robust upon activating Level 2. Ailene gets access to an ability known as Void Bolt. This is a bolt of concentrated shadow magic, twice the size of a bala, but moving at a speed of 600; 1000 in Level Two. Void Bolt scales off of Ailene's OS and Ailene can spend anywhere from 50 to 200 reiatsu; Ailene receives an amount of Insanity equal to the amount of reiatsu spent; 2x in Level 2. If spending Insanity, Ailene may pay the Insanity cost a second time to detonate Void Bolt in a 10 ft radius. When cast with Insanity, Void Bolt gives Insanity equal to ½ the amount spent to whatever target it hits; equal to the amount spent in Level 2.
Visions of Maddening Shadows is a Fullbring that allows Ailene to gradually warp the minds of those she comes into contact with. Upon releasing her Fullbring, Ailene begins accumulating a secondary resource known as Insanity. By default, Ailene can utilize this Insanity in lieu of reiatsu for covering costs applicable to her release. When using Insanity to refresh her release duration, the cost is doubled. Every post, 2% Insanity is generated; this is increased to 4% with Level 2. Should Ailene ever generate an amount that causes her pool to exceed its maximum, the extra Insanity is lost. Additionally, when her abilities are cast with Insanity instead of reiatsu, they become empowered. These costs are always the same as the reiatsu cost unless specified otherwise. This pool of Insanity acts like a buffer, always draining before Ailene's reaitsu unless she wills otherwise. If she were to be subject to an effect where reiatsu is lost by abilities other than her own, the amount is always deducted from Insanity first. If Insanity were to be drained, the opponent gains no reiatsu and instead adds an equal amount of Insanity to their pool. Should Ailene drop to 0 reiatsu, she still loses consciousness no matter how much Insanity she has stored up.
Visions of Maddening Whispers does not merely affect Ailene alone. Opponents who face Ailene must keep an eye on their own mental state lest they descend into madness. Each time an opponent or an aspect of their release comes into contact with Ailene's Fullbring or an extension thereof, they gain 2% Insanity; this is increased to 4% with Level 2. The maximum amount of Insanity that they can accrue is equivalent to their maximum reiatsu. Unlike with Ailene, however, this serves only as consequence and can create detrimental effects once they accrue certain thresholds of Insanity. Additionally, as victims are driven further and further into madness, Ailene gains an increase in her passive Insanity generation.
{Marks of Madness}
Manic (10%) - This is the seed that is planted in the victims’ mind, threatening to cast them into the depths of madness. The victim's thoughts become muddled. It becomes harder to focus on the task at hand. Strange sensations such as the feeling of being watched form in the victim’s mind. Battle Focus or Calm Mind of 1 can concentrate past these feelings of paranoia.
Disturbed (20%) - Focusing has become even more difficult now. Very minor auditory and tactile hallucinations occur that can throw people off. They begin hearing soft whispers in their ear, feeling light touches from unknown sources. Battle Focus or Calm Mind of 2 can ignore the whispers and tactile sensations.
Hysterical (40%) - The auditory and tactile hallucinations become more prominent. Whispers become numerous. Thoughts flow slower and ideas arise more seldomly. It is because of this that mental incantations take twice as long to fulfill. Weapon Skills and Battle Analysis decreases by 1 point to a minimum of 1. As madness becomes more severe, Ailene generates additional 1% Insanity; 2% in Level 2. Battle Focus or Calm Mind of 2 can mitigate distractions, allowing them to utilize incantations normally. Battle Focus or Calm Mind 3 negates skill degradation.
Paranoid (60%) - Not only do the whispers become more numerous and disturbing, but visual hallucinations accompany the whispers. Weapon skills and Battle Analysis decrease by 2 points to a minimum of 1. The warping of the mind begins to affect the victim physically. Words become harder to pronounce correctly and mistakes occur often. Both mental and verbal incantations require twice as long to fulfill. The words of others become more difficult to discern as well, riddled with mistakes and garbled noises. Finally, Ailene generates additional 2% Insanity; 4% in Level 2. Battle Focus or Calm Mind of 3 can mitigate distractions, allowing them to utilize incantations normally. Weapon & Battle Analysis skill degradation is reduced by 1 point. Battle Focus or Calm Mind of 4 or Lack of Fear of 3 negates skill degradation.
Driven Mad (90%) - At the absolute peak of insanity, the victim is driven to insanity. The whispers become so severe that they are almost deafening. Visual hallucinations become more severe, taking the form of fears and other disturbing imagery. Weapon Skills and Battle Analysis decrease by 3 points to a minimum of 0. Words and thoughts have become garbled, incoherent sounds. Both mental and verbal incantations require three times as long to fulfill. The words of others have become incoherent babbles and eldritch sounds at this point making it impossible to verbally understand others. Finally, Ailene generates additional 3% Insanity; 6% in Level 2. Those driven to Madness can only mitigate the effects partially as long as they have a 4 in two of the following skills: Lack of Fear, Calm Mind or Battle Focus. Victims who are so resolute reduce their skill points by 2 points to a minimum of 1 though they still suffer triple incantation length.
Manic (10%) - This is the seed that is planted in the victims’ mind, threatening to cast them into the depths of madness. The victim's thoughts become muddled. It becomes harder to focus on the task at hand. Strange sensations such as the feeling of being watched form in the victim’s mind. Battle Focus or Calm Mind of 1 can concentrate past these feelings of paranoia.
Disturbed (20%) - Focusing has become even more difficult now. Very minor auditory and tactile hallucinations occur that can throw people off. They begin hearing soft whispers in their ear, feeling light touches from unknown sources. Battle Focus or Calm Mind of 2 can ignore the whispers and tactile sensations.
Hysterical (40%) - The auditory and tactile hallucinations become more prominent. Whispers become numerous. Thoughts flow slower and ideas arise more seldomly. It is because of this that mental incantations take twice as long to fulfill. Weapon Skills and Battle Analysis decreases by 1 point to a minimum of 1. As madness becomes more severe, Ailene generates additional 1% Insanity; 2% in Level 2. Battle Focus or Calm Mind of 2 can mitigate distractions, allowing them to utilize incantations normally. Battle Focus or Calm Mind 3 negates skill degradation.
Paranoid (60%) - Not only do the whispers become more numerous and disturbing, but visual hallucinations accompany the whispers. Weapon skills and Battle Analysis decrease by 2 points to a minimum of 1. The warping of the mind begins to affect the victim physically. Words become harder to pronounce correctly and mistakes occur often. Both mental and verbal incantations require twice as long to fulfill. The words of others become more difficult to discern as well, riddled with mistakes and garbled noises. Finally, Ailene generates additional 2% Insanity; 4% in Level 2. Battle Focus or Calm Mind of 3 can mitigate distractions, allowing them to utilize incantations normally. Weapon & Battle Analysis skill degradation is reduced by 1 point. Battle Focus or Calm Mind of 4 or Lack of Fear of 3 negates skill degradation.
Driven Mad (90%) - At the absolute peak of insanity, the victim is driven to insanity. The whispers become so severe that they are almost deafening. Visual hallucinations become more severe, taking the form of fears and other disturbing imagery. Weapon Skills and Battle Analysis decrease by 3 points to a minimum of 0. Words and thoughts have become garbled, incoherent sounds. Both mental and verbal incantations require three times as long to fulfill. The words of others have become incoherent babbles and eldritch sounds at this point making it impossible to verbally understand others. Finally, Ailene generates additional 3% Insanity; 6% in Level 2. Those driven to Madness can only mitigate the effects partially as long as they have a 4 in two of the following skills: Lack of Fear, Calm Mind or Battle Focus. Victims who are so resolute reduce their skill points by 2 points to a minimum of 1 though they still suffer triple incantation length.
Visions of Maddening Shadows also gives Ailene access to limited shadow magicks that only become more robust upon activating Level 2. Ailene gets access to an ability known as Void Bolt. This is a bolt of concentrated shadow magic, twice the size of a bala, but moving at a speed of 600; 1000 in Level Two. Void Bolt scales off of Ailene's OS and Ailene can spend anywhere from 50 to 200 reiatsu; Ailene receives an amount of Insanity equal to the amount of reiatsu spent; 2x in Level 2. If spending Insanity, Ailene may pay the Insanity cost a second time to detonate Void Bolt in a 10 ft radius. When cast with Insanity, Void Bolt gives Insanity equal to ½ the amount spent to whatever target it hits; equal to the amount spent in Level 2.
{Primary Fullbring Level 2 Properties}
{Shadow Weaving}
Shadow Weaving enhances Ailene's shadow magicks by giving her the ability to manipulate shadows in a number of ways by giving them physical properties, changing the form of shadows, or even imbuing them with life. Due to their nature as shadows, anything created by Shadow Weaving can interact with the shadows of others. Since shadows are extensions of their source, any damage sustained by the shadow is mirrored to its source. Ailene does not suffer from this mirroring. The most basic use of this is to create tendrils with claws from the shadows. For 100 reiatsu, Ailene is able to create one tendril within a shadow that she is currently touching that can extend 1 meter from the source of the shadow per 100 SpPr she currently has. It should be noted that these tendrils can move as far as they want within a shadow and their length is renewed upon entering another shadow, effectively allowing these tendrils to chain across multiple shadows over extremely long distances. These tendrils are able to change shape between a sharpened tip and a claw. The sharpened tip allows Ailene to use it akin to a spear while the claw allows these tendrils to rake their targets, viciously scratching them. The OS & Durability are both equivalent to Ailene's OS while the Speed of the tendrils is equivalent to her own. By spending Insanity, the durability increases to 2x her OS and the Speed increases to 1.5x Ailene's. These tendrils act as extensions of her Fullbring and as such can apply Insanity to whatever it hits. Additionally, these tendrils have the ability to restrain others by wrapping around parts of their body or even their shadow. Breaking out of this grip physically requires a Strength that exceeds the OS of the tendrils.
The other, more complex use of Shadow Weaving is the true reason behind its name. By using her own reiatsu Ailene can shape a shadow, that she is touching herself or with the tentacles of her Primary or Secondary Fullbring, on a physical level and actually provide it with a body and effectively create a living shadow known as Shadowlings. She can shape it into anything she desires, even adjusting the overall size of the Shadowling. Though she usually favors animals, Ailene is able to create weapons made of shadow for 50 reiatsu. Unlike traditional weaponry, Ailene can utilize ranks in Shadow Magicks to determine her proficiency with the weapons. These weapons possess an OS & Durability equal to her OS. While she can create ranged weaponry, Ailene must also generate ammo for an additional 50 reiatsu. Projectiles move at her Speed. When fashioning these weapons from Insanity, the durability increases to 2x her OS. Additionally, any projectiles move at 1.5x Speed instead. Now onto the Shadowlings. Ailene can form a Shadowling out of any shadow that she can see. Shadowlings have a maximum height/length based on how far a tendril could move from a shadow though this caps at 40 ft. By spending reiatsu, Ailene can give these Shadowlings a pool of SP equal to the amount of reiatsu spent, but not exceeding ½ her own current SP. By spending Insanity, the SP amount is equivalent to the amount spent, but can grow up to her current total SP. SP can be applied to stats as needed and can exceed the 400 SP Limit; to a cap of 600; Elders have a cap of 800 SP. The durability of shadowlings is equal to her OS if reiatsu is used to create them, 2x her OS if Insanity is used. Shadowlings do not possess a type and never experience nor inflict cutback no matter how high or low their SpPr. While they lack skills, they do gain one weapon-based skill with points equivalent to Ailene's Shadow Magicks rank. Shadowlings contribute to Ailene's passive Insanity gain based on how many posts they have existed. Upon creation, a Shadowling is considered Manic, rising one threshold with every post. While there is no limit on the amount of Shadowlings that she can summon, she only gains the Insanity benefit from the three oldest Shadowlings known as "Elders". Should an Elder die, the next oldest Shadowling becomes an Elder. When a Shadowling becomes an Elder Shadowling, Ailene may elect to reassign their stats to accommodate the new SP limit. Finally, Elder Shadowlings may utilize Ailene's non-release techs if their physiology allows for it. Upon creation, Ailene may assign an Elder Shadowling a number of techniques equivalent to her ranks in Shadow Magick. While an Elder Shadowling possesses one of Ailene's techniques, she may not use it herself. Should an Elder Shadowling die, Ailene may spend 50 reiatsu/Insanity per Class, starting at Class 7; of the techniques to transfer them over to the next Elder Shadowling. For no cost, Ailene may return the techniques to herself. Upon using a technique, the reiatsu is deducted from Ailene's pool. Alternatively, Shadowlings can use Insanity in lieu of reiatsu with the same mechanics listed in Embrace of the Void. Non-release techs used by Elders use their own OS and are naturally empowered by Embrace of the Void. Ailene can only create up to 3 Shadowlings per post.
Shadow Weaving enhances Ailene's shadow magicks by giving her the ability to manipulate shadows in a number of ways by giving them physical properties, changing the form of shadows, or even imbuing them with life. Due to their nature as shadows, anything created by Shadow Weaving can interact with the shadows of others. Since shadows are extensions of their source, any damage sustained by the shadow is mirrored to its source. Ailene does not suffer from this mirroring. The most basic use of this is to create tendrils with claws from the shadows. For 100 reiatsu, Ailene is able to create one tendril within a shadow that she is currently touching that can extend 1 meter from the source of the shadow per 100 SpPr she currently has. It should be noted that these tendrils can move as far as they want within a shadow and their length is renewed upon entering another shadow, effectively allowing these tendrils to chain across multiple shadows over extremely long distances. These tendrils are able to change shape between a sharpened tip and a claw. The sharpened tip allows Ailene to use it akin to a spear while the claw allows these tendrils to rake their targets, viciously scratching them. The OS & Durability are both equivalent to Ailene's OS while the Speed of the tendrils is equivalent to her own. By spending Insanity, the durability increases to 2x her OS and the Speed increases to 1.5x Ailene's. These tendrils act as extensions of her Fullbring and as such can apply Insanity to whatever it hits. Additionally, these tendrils have the ability to restrain others by wrapping around parts of their body or even their shadow. Breaking out of this grip physically requires a Strength that exceeds the OS of the tendrils.
The other, more complex use of Shadow Weaving is the true reason behind its name. By using her own reiatsu Ailene can shape a shadow, that she is touching herself or with the tentacles of her Primary or Secondary Fullbring, on a physical level and actually provide it with a body and effectively create a living shadow known as Shadowlings. She can shape it into anything she desires, even adjusting the overall size of the Shadowling. Though she usually favors animals, Ailene is able to create weapons made of shadow for 50 reiatsu. Unlike traditional weaponry, Ailene can utilize ranks in Shadow Magicks to determine her proficiency with the weapons. These weapons possess an OS & Durability equal to her OS. While she can create ranged weaponry, Ailene must also generate ammo for an additional 50 reiatsu. Projectiles move at her Speed. When fashioning these weapons from Insanity, the durability increases to 2x her OS. Additionally, any projectiles move at 1.5x Speed instead. Now onto the Shadowlings. Ailene can form a Shadowling out of any shadow that she can see. Shadowlings have a maximum height/length based on how far a tendril could move from a shadow though this caps at 40 ft. By spending reiatsu, Ailene can give these Shadowlings a pool of SP equal to the amount of reiatsu spent, but not exceeding ½ her own current SP. By spending Insanity, the SP amount is equivalent to the amount spent, but can grow up to her current total SP. SP can be applied to stats as needed and can exceed the 400 SP Limit; to a cap of 600; Elders have a cap of 800 SP. The durability of shadowlings is equal to her OS if reiatsu is used to create them, 2x her OS if Insanity is used. Shadowlings do not possess a type and never experience nor inflict cutback no matter how high or low their SpPr. While they lack skills, they do gain one weapon-based skill with points equivalent to Ailene's Shadow Magicks rank. Shadowlings contribute to Ailene's passive Insanity gain based on how many posts they have existed. Upon creation, a Shadowling is considered Manic, rising one threshold with every post. While there is no limit on the amount of Shadowlings that she can summon, she only gains the Insanity benefit from the three oldest Shadowlings known as "Elders". Should an Elder die, the next oldest Shadowling becomes an Elder. When a Shadowling becomes an Elder Shadowling, Ailene may elect to reassign their stats to accommodate the new SP limit. Finally, Elder Shadowlings may utilize Ailene's non-release techs if their physiology allows for it. Upon creation, Ailene may assign an Elder Shadowling a number of techniques equivalent to her ranks in Shadow Magick. While an Elder Shadowling possesses one of Ailene's techniques, she may not use it herself. Should an Elder Shadowling die, Ailene may spend 50 reiatsu/Insanity per Class, starting at Class 7; of the techniques to transfer them over to the next Elder Shadowling. For no cost, Ailene may return the techniques to herself. Upon using a technique, the reiatsu is deducted from Ailene's pool. Alternatively, Shadowlings can use Insanity in lieu of reiatsu with the same mechanics listed in Embrace of the Void. Non-release techs used by Elders use their own OS and are naturally empowered by Embrace of the Void. Ailene can only create up to 3 Shadowlings per post.
{Devouring Shadows}
Devouring Shadows allows Ailene has two unique uses, either allowing her to detonate shadows like bombs or wear them like armor. To begin with, Ailene can choose any amount of shadow, that she is touching herself or with the tentacles of her Primary or Secondary Fullbring, and pour her reiatsu into it not unlike Shadow Weaving. Unlike the latter, however, Ailene can force the shadow to violently react with this reiatsu and spontaneously combust into a fierce explosion of both shadow and purple flames for 100 reiatsu per 10 ft diameter; this caps at 50 ft diameter. This explosion scales off of Ailene's OS and moves at a speed of 800. Ailene can opt to use Insanity instead, but with a slight twist. By spending more Insanity, a stronger explosion can be created. For every 2 Insanity above the base cost, the explosion gains 1 OS; up to 3x Ailene's OS. Using reiatsu as a catalyst generates Insanity for Ailene equivalent to the reiatsu spent. Conversely, using Insanity generates an equal amount, split evenly between all targets hit. Alternatively, Ailene can detonate Shadowlings. The OS of the explosion is equal to the SP of the Shadowling. The size of explosion is measured in ft equivalent to the SP of the Shadowling divided by 50, rounded down to the nearest 10 ft, spending the same reiatsu or Insanity for an explosion of that size. Shadowlings do not require touch to be detonated.
Alternatively, Ailene can elect to draw the shadow onto herself when stepping onto it, giving her a cloak of shadows that covers her entire body in a shadowlike aura. This process requires no reiatsu or Insanity. For every 10 ft radius consume, the armor gains 100 durability. When struck with an attack, the durability is degraded by an amount equal to the OS of the attack. Abilities with a 2+ Class Superiority immediately pierce the armor while abilities with a 2+ Class Inferiority deal ½ of their OS to the durability. By spending Insanity, Ailene can reinforce this cloak of shadows. For every 2 Insanity spent, the cloak gains 1 durability. Upon reinforcing the cloak; it cannot be reinforced further until 3 posts have passed. The durability of this armor may never exceed 2x Ailene's OS. Should the durability ever reach 0, the armor breaks completely and Ailene is struck with the remaining OS of the attack. Upon breaking, Ailene needs to wait till 3 posts have passed until she can reestablish another layer of armor by consuming more shadows.
Devouring Shadows allows Ailene has two unique uses, either allowing her to detonate shadows like bombs or wear them like armor. To begin with, Ailene can choose any amount of shadow, that she is touching herself or with the tentacles of her Primary or Secondary Fullbring, and pour her reiatsu into it not unlike Shadow Weaving. Unlike the latter, however, Ailene can force the shadow to violently react with this reiatsu and spontaneously combust into a fierce explosion of both shadow and purple flames for 100 reiatsu per 10 ft diameter; this caps at 50 ft diameter. This explosion scales off of Ailene's OS and moves at a speed of 800. Ailene can opt to use Insanity instead, but with a slight twist. By spending more Insanity, a stronger explosion can be created. For every 2 Insanity above the base cost, the explosion gains 1 OS; up to 3x Ailene's OS. Using reiatsu as a catalyst generates Insanity for Ailene equivalent to the reiatsu spent. Conversely, using Insanity generates an equal amount, split evenly between all targets hit. Alternatively, Ailene can detonate Shadowlings. The OS of the explosion is equal to the SP of the Shadowling. The size of explosion is measured in ft equivalent to the SP of the Shadowling divided by 50, rounded down to the nearest 10 ft, spending the same reiatsu or Insanity for an explosion of that size. Shadowlings do not require touch to be detonated.
Alternatively, Ailene can elect to draw the shadow onto herself when stepping onto it, giving her a cloak of shadows that covers her entire body in a shadowlike aura. This process requires no reiatsu or Insanity. For every 10 ft radius consume, the armor gains 100 durability. When struck with an attack, the durability is degraded by an amount equal to the OS of the attack. Abilities with a 2+ Class Superiority immediately pierce the armor while abilities with a 2+ Class Inferiority deal ½ of their OS to the durability. By spending Insanity, Ailene can reinforce this cloak of shadows. For every 2 Insanity spent, the cloak gains 1 durability. Upon reinforcing the cloak; it cannot be reinforced further until 3 posts have passed. The durability of this armor may never exceed 2x Ailene's OS. Should the durability ever reach 0, the armor breaks completely and Ailene is struck with the remaining OS of the attack. Upon breaking, Ailene needs to wait till 3 posts have passed until she can reestablish another layer of armor by consuming more shadows.
{Embrace of the Void}
Embrace of the Void is a powerful ability that allows Ailene to taint her non-release techs with her shadow magick while corrupting the world around her as she does so. When spending reiatsu for a Non-release technique, Ailene can elect to spend an equal amount of Insanity. Alternatively, Ailene can spend 2x the reiatsu cost in Insanity to forego using reiatsu. Either option corrupts the technique, infusing it with shadow magick. The technique itself changes to accommodate the corruption. For example, Energy Generate: Current may appear as a stream of shadow with purple tendrils crackling with electricity. Techniques tainted by Embrace of the Void scale exclusively off of Ailene's OS, barring techniques that use Strength, and are considered extensions of Ailene's Fullbring for the purposes of accumulating Insanity.
Embrace of the Void serves one more purpose that affects the world around Ailene as well. When a tainted technique strikes the environment, it becomes infused with the shadow magick that fuels Ailene's Fullbring. A 10 ft diameter zone that lasts for 3 posts, starting at Class 7, radiates outward from the point of impact at a speed of 600. Each Class above 7 increases the radius of the zone by another 10 ft. These tainted fields are considered shadows. The corruption creeps up walls and across ceilings, making it more dangerous in tight spaces. Additionally, any target that steps into these tainted fields becomes corrupted for 2 posts. While corrupted, the victim gains a passive bonus to Insanity, equivalent to half of Ailene's current passive Insanity generation. Ailene gains no benefit from corruption, but her Shadowlings are considered one Mark of Madness higher than normal as long as they are corrupted. Finally, while standing within the tainted fields, the victim has to pay double reiatsu costs any ability they use. This increased cost fades upon leaving the tainted field.
Embrace of the Void is a powerful ability that allows Ailene to taint her non-release techs with her shadow magick while corrupting the world around her as she does so. When spending reiatsu for a Non-release technique, Ailene can elect to spend an equal amount of Insanity. Alternatively, Ailene can spend 2x the reiatsu cost in Insanity to forego using reiatsu. Either option corrupts the technique, infusing it with shadow magick. The technique itself changes to accommodate the corruption. For example, Energy Generate: Current may appear as a stream of shadow with purple tendrils crackling with electricity. Techniques tainted by Embrace of the Void scale exclusively off of Ailene's OS, barring techniques that use Strength, and are considered extensions of Ailene's Fullbring for the purposes of accumulating Insanity.
Embrace of the Void serves one more purpose that affects the world around Ailene as well. When a tainted technique strikes the environment, it becomes infused with the shadow magick that fuels Ailene's Fullbring. A 10 ft diameter zone that lasts for 3 posts, starting at Class 7, radiates outward from the point of impact at a speed of 600. Each Class above 7 increases the radius of the zone by another 10 ft. These tainted fields are considered shadows. The corruption creeps up walls and across ceilings, making it more dangerous in tight spaces. Additionally, any target that steps into these tainted fields becomes corrupted for 2 posts. While corrupted, the victim gains a passive bonus to Insanity, equivalent to half of Ailene's current passive Insanity generation. Ailene gains no benefit from corruption, but her Shadowlings are considered one Mark of Madness higher than normal as long as they are corrupted. Finally, while standing within the tainted fields, the victim has to pay double reiatsu costs any ability they use. This increased cost fades upon leaving the tainted field.
Secondary Fullbring Name: Surrender to Madness
{Secondary Fullbring Appearances}
{Sealed Secondary Fullbring}
The sealed state for Ailene's Secondary Fullbring takes on a form that she does not use anymore, but keeps around for sentimental purposes. As an Arrancar, Ailene used Senbon to keep her hair up in her bun. This Senbon, extremely thin and about 6-inches in length, was in fact a reiatsu scrambler that she had used at times to disguise her reiatsu signature as that of another race. Upon utilizing her Saigo, she found that the reiatsu scrambler quickly short-circuited and became utterly unusable. Now serving a mere needle, Ailene finds that her hair has no need for it, but she keeps it on her person anyway.
The sealed state for Ailene's Secondary Fullbring takes on a form that she does not use anymore, but keeps around for sentimental purposes. As an Arrancar, Ailene used Senbon to keep her hair up in her bun. This Senbon, extremely thin and about 6-inches in length, was in fact a reiatsu scrambler that she had used at times to disguise her reiatsu signature as that of another race. Upon utilizing her Saigo, she found that the reiatsu scrambler quickly short-circuited and became utterly unusable. Now serving a mere needle, Ailene finds that her hair has no need for it, but she keeps it on her person anyway.
{Surrender to Madness}
Surrender to Madness as a Secondary Fullbring takes on a form that many would likely not come to expect. Similarly to how Ailene creates tendrils of shadow in her Primary Fullbring, Surrender to Madness generates shadow-like tentacles that sprout out from Ailene's back. Able to create a varying amount of tentacles at a time, Ailene can use these to effectively strike from a distance and attempt to overwhelm opponents with a relentless barrage of attacks. Each tentacles is as black as the night and is almost chilling to the touch. Overall, these tentacles give Ailene the appearance of a tentacled eldritch creature trapped in human skin.
Surrender to Madness as a Secondary Fullbring takes on a form that many would likely not come to expect. Similarly to how Ailene creates tendrils of shadow in her Primary Fullbring, Surrender to Madness generates shadow-like tentacles that sprout out from Ailene's back. Able to create a varying amount of tentacles at a time, Ailene can use these to effectively strike from a distance and attempt to overwhelm opponents with a relentless barrage of attacks. Each tentacles is as black as the night and is almost chilling to the touch. Overall, these tentacles give Ailene the appearance of a tentacled eldritch creature trapped in human skin.
{Secondary Fullbring Properties}
Surrender to Madness is a unique Secondary Fullbring since it does not create a physical weapon. Instead, this Fullbring appears similar to the tendrils formed by Shadow Weaving. Instead of being formed within shadows, these tentacles sprout from Ailene’s lower back. Upon releasing Surrender to Madness, Ailene can sprout 1 tentacle per 100 SpPr. These tentacles can reach a length in ft equivalent to 1 ft per 100 SpPr. Each tentacle has durability equivalent to Ailene’s OS. Any missing tentacles may be regrown over the course of a post for 50 reiatsu; Insanity if Primary Fullbring is active. Much like their Primary counterpart, these tentacles can be used to strike at opponents with an OS equal to Ailene’s own and can interact with an opponent’s shadow. When swatting opponents, the tendrils use Ailene’s OS for concussive strength. While Visions of Maddening Shadows is active, Void Bolt may be fired from these tentacles.
Surrender to Madness is a unique Secondary Fullbring since it does not create a physical weapon. Instead, this Fullbring appears similar to the tendrils formed by Shadow Weaving. Instead of being formed within shadows, these tentacles sprout from Ailene’s lower back. Upon releasing Surrender to Madness, Ailene can sprout 1 tentacle per 100 SpPr. These tentacles can reach a length in ft equivalent to 1 ft per 100 SpPr. Each tentacle has durability equivalent to Ailene’s OS. Any missing tentacles may be regrown over the course of a post for 50 reiatsu; Insanity if Primary Fullbring is active. Much like their Primary counterpart, these tentacles can be used to strike at opponents with an OS equal to Ailene’s own and can interact with an opponent’s shadow. When swatting opponents, the tendrils use Ailene’s OS for concussive strength. While Visions of Maddening Shadows is active, Void Bolt may be fired from these tentacles.
{Thoughtsteal}
Thoughtsteal is a powerful property that allows Ailene to effectively expand upon her own set of abilities by using the skills of others. Upon using this property, Ailene may steal the memory of a technique upon making contact with a target herself or with her Secondary Fullbring for 100 reiatsu per Class starting at Class 7; Insanity if Visions of Maddening Shadows is active. Since she inherits the memory directly from the user, the technique does not have to be directly witnessed by Ailene though it can help make the process a little faster. The victim still retains the knowledge of how to use the technique. Ailene gains access to the technique by adding it to her non-release techs or replacing one of her currently known techniques if there are no empty slots remaining. For as long as it is known to Ailene, she can use it with the same proficiency as the original user, gaining intimate knowledge of their ability to use it. If she gains a technique that she already knows but is less proficient than the victim, she may adopt the higher proficiency of the victim. To utilize the technique, Ailene needs to meet all skill and stat requirements of the technique. However, Ailene is able to use skills in Shadow Magicks in lieu of magic-based skills such as Cero Mastery or Kido as long as the technique is empowered by Embrace of the Void. If the skill requirement is a step skill such as Hohō or Sonido, she may replace it with her own skill, Stepping: Movement, at 1 point less, minimum of 1. Techniques that don't use reiatsu in some way or are physical/bodily techniques cannot be used either. Additionally, Ailene experiences all costs and drawbacks of the technique. Ailene may inherit one technique per tentacles created by Surrender to Madness, trapping the memory of the technique within the tentacle. Upon taking the idea of a technique, Ailene can retain it for 3 posts before effectively forgetting the technique. Should she have replaced one of her own techniques with a taken technique, Ailene regains her own. Points in Memory also restrict the number of techniques that can be taken. Those with a 4 in Memory cannot have any techniques taken. Starting at a 3 in Memory, Ailene can take up to 2 techniques from the victim. At 2, she can take up to 4; at 1, she can take up to 6; and with no points in Memory, she can take up to 8. Additionally, since each technique is trapped within a tentacle, if the tentacle were destroyed or dismissed by any means, the technique is immediately forgotten. Release techniques and Faction-restricted techniques such as Alma Vacia cannot be stolen.
Thoughtsteal is a powerful property that allows Ailene to effectively expand upon her own set of abilities by using the skills of others. Upon using this property, Ailene may steal the memory of a technique upon making contact with a target herself or with her Secondary Fullbring for 100 reiatsu per Class starting at Class 7; Insanity if Visions of Maddening Shadows is active. Since she inherits the memory directly from the user, the technique does not have to be directly witnessed by Ailene though it can help make the process a little faster. The victim still retains the knowledge of how to use the technique. Ailene gains access to the technique by adding it to her non-release techs or replacing one of her currently known techniques if there are no empty slots remaining. For as long as it is known to Ailene, she can use it with the same proficiency as the original user, gaining intimate knowledge of their ability to use it. If she gains a technique that she already knows but is less proficient than the victim, she may adopt the higher proficiency of the victim. To utilize the technique, Ailene needs to meet all skill and stat requirements of the technique. However, Ailene is able to use skills in Shadow Magicks in lieu of magic-based skills such as Cero Mastery or Kido as long as the technique is empowered by Embrace of the Void. If the skill requirement is a step skill such as Hohō or Sonido, she may replace it with her own skill, Stepping: Movement, at 1 point less, minimum of 1. Techniques that don't use reiatsu in some way or are physical/bodily techniques cannot be used either. Additionally, Ailene experiences all costs and drawbacks of the technique. Ailene may inherit one technique per tentacles created by Surrender to Madness, trapping the memory of the technique within the tentacle. Upon taking the idea of a technique, Ailene can retain it for 3 posts before effectively forgetting the technique. Should she have replaced one of her own techniques with a taken technique, Ailene regains her own. Points in Memory also restrict the number of techniques that can be taken. Those with a 4 in Memory cannot have any techniques taken. Starting at a 3 in Memory, Ailene can take up to 2 techniques from the victim. At 2, she can take up to 4; at 1, she can take up to 6; and with no points in Memory, she can take up to 8. Additionally, since each technique is trapped within a tentacle, if the tentacle were destroyed or dismissed by any means, the technique is immediately forgotten. Release techniques and Faction-restricted techniques such as Alma Vacia cannot be stolen.
{Lucid Dreaming}
Lucid Dreaming is a property that affords Ailene a safeguard against death, able to rewrite her own fate as if it were merely a dream. Upon suffering a serious or even fatal injury, Ailene may shed her mortal form and instantly transfer her reiatsu to one of her Shadowlings produced by Shadow Weaving by spending 20% of her maximum reiatsu or Insanity. Upon doing so, the Shadowling is possessed by Ailene's spirit. This allows her to effectively puppet the Shadowling and command the others. While possessing the Shadowling in this manner, Ailene uses the stats of the Shadowling except for SpPr which is replaced with her own. While possessing a Shadowling, her reiatsu is obfuscated. Anyone with less than 200 ES is incapable of distinguishing Ailene's reiatsu from that of her Shadowling. This ES requirement is increased by 150 for every point in Shadow Magicks as Ailene is able to integrate more and more with her Shadowling with every point. Every point in Anti-Stealth reduces this ES requirement by 150 points. While possessing a Shadowling, Ailene is able to use any ability granted by her Primary & Secondary Fullbring. Over the course of three posts, Ailene's body rejuvenates itself, springing forth from the Shadowling, killing it instantly. Upon restoring herself, Ailene gains reiatsu equivalent to half of her current Insanity pool, setting her Insanity to 0. At the time of restoration, all wounds, spiritual & physical, are healed and her body is restored albeit she retains 25% of the injuries sustained before using Lucid Dreaming. While a powerful property, Lucid Dreaming is not infallible. First of all, Lucid Dreaming cannot circumvent instant kills. Without Shadowlings at the moment of use, Lucid Dreaming cannot be activated. Additionally, upon possessing a Shadowling, Ailene's spirit is bound to it until she recovers. Should the Shadowling die before Ailene is restored, her mutilated body is shunted to the nearest available space in an NDE/DP thread; dying outright in a DE thread. If Ailene spends reiatsu in lieu of Insanity, she does not gain the additional reiatsu upon restoration. Upon completing Lucid Dreaming Ailene cannot use it again until 8 hours have passed.
Lucid Dreaming is a property that affords Ailene a safeguard against death, able to rewrite her own fate as if it were merely a dream. Upon suffering a serious or even fatal injury, Ailene may shed her mortal form and instantly transfer her reiatsu to one of her Shadowlings produced by Shadow Weaving by spending 20% of her maximum reiatsu or Insanity. Upon doing so, the Shadowling is possessed by Ailene's spirit. This allows her to effectively puppet the Shadowling and command the others. While possessing the Shadowling in this manner, Ailene uses the stats of the Shadowling except for SpPr which is replaced with her own. While possessing a Shadowling, her reiatsu is obfuscated. Anyone with less than 200 ES is incapable of distinguishing Ailene's reiatsu from that of her Shadowling. This ES requirement is increased by 150 for every point in Shadow Magicks as Ailene is able to integrate more and more with her Shadowling with every point. Every point in Anti-Stealth reduces this ES requirement by 150 points. While possessing a Shadowling, Ailene is able to use any ability granted by her Primary & Secondary Fullbring. Over the course of three posts, Ailene's body rejuvenates itself, springing forth from the Shadowling, killing it instantly. Upon restoring herself, Ailene gains reiatsu equivalent to half of her current Insanity pool, setting her Insanity to 0. At the time of restoration, all wounds, spiritual & physical, are healed and her body is restored albeit she retains 25% of the injuries sustained before using Lucid Dreaming. While a powerful property, Lucid Dreaming is not infallible. First of all, Lucid Dreaming cannot circumvent instant kills. Without Shadowlings at the moment of use, Lucid Dreaming cannot be activated. Additionally, upon possessing a Shadowling, Ailene's spirit is bound to it until she recovers. Should the Shadowling die before Ailene is restored, her mutilated body is shunted to the nearest available space in an NDE/DP thread; dying outright in a DE thread. If Ailene spends reiatsu in lieu of Insanity, she does not gain the additional reiatsu upon restoration. Upon completing Lucid Dreaming Ailene cannot use it again until 8 hours have passed.
☽ History ☾
Birthplace: Trendelburg, Germany
Current Residence: Rēgīna
Memorable Figures: Hashiro Siblings, Charlotte Buckner, Orobas Price
History:
{Chapter I - A Former Life}
To talk about Ailene's history, it is to discuss her former life as Kazuna Hashiro. In the early 14th century, Kazuna was born to a small family in Trendelburg, Germany in the region of Hessen. The family lived a very humble life. Kazuna's father was a farmer by trade and despite the systems of agriculture not being very robust, the Hashiro family made due. In fact they lived rather comfortable lives. The seclusion of Trendelburg allowed it to stay safe from civil unrest and other social grievances.
Kazuna did not grow up alone and in fact had a sister. Eleana Hashiro was a few years older than Kazuna, but she was essentially a protector for Kazuna. She would often be by his side in his younger years. For many years, Eleana would be there to protect Kazuna from the injustices and harsh nature of the world. In a way it made Kazuna sheltered and it truly broke him when Eleana became very sick. Kazuna being five at the time, Eleana's death hit him incredibly hard. It was like a piece of his life suddenly fragmented.
With the severity of the disease and the povertous condition of the family, they had no choice, but to effectively burn Eleana's body. Such was the practice in the day. Disease could not be risked and it could not be tolerated. The Hashiro family had the chance to say their goodbye's, but they never attended. Kazuna and his mother at least did not. His father did and mourned greatly over the loss of his child. However, Kazuna could not bring himself to look upon his sisters' body be burnt to a crisp. Unbeknowst to all, Eleana was there.
The chain of fate that connected her to her corpse tied her down. It forced her to watch the desecration of her body and the lack of her family being present. In a way, the deceased Eleana felt betrayed. Forced to remain there in suffering until the chain of fate encroached and ate at her very sanity. This would not happen for another few years however. As the years passed as Eleana was forced to watch the passage of time without as much as a thought, Kazuna was beginning to grow up into a fine young man.
As the now only child of the Hashiro family came of age and the passing of his father from a deadly disease that was suddenly spreading around, it was clear that Kazuna had to take the reigns and lead his family. Continuing the family trade of farming, Kazuna would still live a few more years with his mother. Eventually, the passing of his mother from sickness and disease was inevitable and Kazuna was all alone. Continuing field work, he felt that he owed it to them to continue to live on. Despite the grief, he could not just give up now. He had a life to live and they all would have wanted to live a fruitful one.
It seems, however that fate is not kind as Kazuna took one of his routine walks in the forest to clear his head. As he did this, a familiar entity stalked nearby. Eleana, at this point now a Hollow, stalked after the family member whom she loved so dear. Yet in her anger and grief, she unleashed herself upon her former sibling. Due to this, Kazuna felt a strange coughing fit. Unlike the rest of his family members, Kazuna would not have the time to talk to the village elders about this incidence. Instead his coughing would grow louder and louder, vision growing dimmer until there was not a single sound.
As Kazuna awoke, there was nobody nearby. It was nighttime, but he felt this strange feeling in his chest. As he looked down, a scream of disbelief erupted from him. The chain of fate hung from his chest, lodged within his body. As he recoiled from the shock, he looked to the side and saw his diseased body. Riddled with sores and bleeding orifices. It was a terrible fate and he could not escape. Much like his sister, he was stuck as the chain of fate kept him locked in this forest.
Hours would soon turn to days. Days would become weeks as the chain of fate encroached, devouring itself greedily until finally it snapped. The agony of isolation that befell Kazuna in that forest made him turn. A white mask forming around his screaming mouth which soon formed a reptilian grin. Dark scales adorned his body as Kazuna was now reborn as a Hollow. The pain and agony that he endured ate at his sanity and he was hungry. Hungry for innocent souls.
To talk about Ailene's history, it is to discuss her former life as Kazuna Hashiro. In the early 14th century, Kazuna was born to a small family in Trendelburg, Germany in the region of Hessen. The family lived a very humble life. Kazuna's father was a farmer by trade and despite the systems of agriculture not being very robust, the Hashiro family made due. In fact they lived rather comfortable lives. The seclusion of Trendelburg allowed it to stay safe from civil unrest and other social grievances.
Kazuna did not grow up alone and in fact had a sister. Eleana Hashiro was a few years older than Kazuna, but she was essentially a protector for Kazuna. She would often be by his side in his younger years. For many years, Eleana would be there to protect Kazuna from the injustices and harsh nature of the world. In a way it made Kazuna sheltered and it truly broke him when Eleana became very sick. Kazuna being five at the time, Eleana's death hit him incredibly hard. It was like a piece of his life suddenly fragmented.
With the severity of the disease and the povertous condition of the family, they had no choice, but to effectively burn Eleana's body. Such was the practice in the day. Disease could not be risked and it could not be tolerated. The Hashiro family had the chance to say their goodbye's, but they never attended. Kazuna and his mother at least did not. His father did and mourned greatly over the loss of his child. However, Kazuna could not bring himself to look upon his sisters' body be burnt to a crisp. Unbeknowst to all, Eleana was there.
The chain of fate that connected her to her corpse tied her down. It forced her to watch the desecration of her body and the lack of her family being present. In a way, the deceased Eleana felt betrayed. Forced to remain there in suffering until the chain of fate encroached and ate at her very sanity. This would not happen for another few years however. As the years passed as Eleana was forced to watch the passage of time without as much as a thought, Kazuna was beginning to grow up into a fine young man.
As the now only child of the Hashiro family came of age and the passing of his father from a deadly disease that was suddenly spreading around, it was clear that Kazuna had to take the reigns and lead his family. Continuing the family trade of farming, Kazuna would still live a few more years with his mother. Eventually, the passing of his mother from sickness and disease was inevitable and Kazuna was all alone. Continuing field work, he felt that he owed it to them to continue to live on. Despite the grief, he could not just give up now. He had a life to live and they all would have wanted to live a fruitful one.
It seems, however that fate is not kind as Kazuna took one of his routine walks in the forest to clear his head. As he did this, a familiar entity stalked nearby. Eleana, at this point now a Hollow, stalked after the family member whom she loved so dear. Yet in her anger and grief, she unleashed herself upon her former sibling. Due to this, Kazuna felt a strange coughing fit. Unlike the rest of his family members, Kazuna would not have the time to talk to the village elders about this incidence. Instead his coughing would grow louder and louder, vision growing dimmer until there was not a single sound.
As Kazuna awoke, there was nobody nearby. It was nighttime, but he felt this strange feeling in his chest. As he looked down, a scream of disbelief erupted from him. The chain of fate hung from his chest, lodged within his body. As he recoiled from the shock, he looked to the side and saw his diseased body. Riddled with sores and bleeding orifices. It was a terrible fate and he could not escape. Much like his sister, he was stuck as the chain of fate kept him locked in this forest.
Hours would soon turn to days. Days would become weeks as the chain of fate encroached, devouring itself greedily until finally it snapped. The agony of isolation that befell Kazuna in that forest made him turn. A white mask forming around his screaming mouth which soon formed a reptilian grin. Dark scales adorned his body as Kazuna was now reborn as a Hollow. The pain and agony that he endured ate at his sanity and he was hungry. Hungry for innocent souls.
{Chapter II - A Regretful Afterlife}
The cycle of hatred that befell Kazuna would urge him to do unspeakable things. The first order of business on the new Hollow's mind was to go and devour the souls of the innocent. Returning to his home that he knew so well, his time of indulgent and gluttony would begin. The Hollow would lay siege on his hometown, devouring a few at a time to satiate the incredible hunger. Most would scream as they were devoured whole by Kazuna, all shred of conscious disappeared from the Hollow.
Every night, Kazuna would arrive back at the town to feast on more and more. His endless hunger would in fact become unbearable and it would grow with every passing meal. In a way it was torturous to be condemned to an existence of devouring those that he once called his friends. Yet compassion, empathy and all had disappeared. In its place came a mindless mind that only sought to do one thing. Devour those that he came across. Buildings would be ripped open, families plucked from their beds and nobody knew why.
Eventually the sport of hunting human souls warped poor Kazuna. Years upon years of devouring innocents made him lost his mind even more. Eventually the Hollow would tower above all others in the Human World. The mindless beast chose to go to the only place it could. Hueco Mundo. Within the Menos Forest, the Hollowfied Kazuna would begin to devour others of his kind. Comradery meant nothing if it meant survival. Such was the life of the Hollow. Eventually, these would congregate into a large Gillian.
For many months, possibly even years, the multiple personalities would strive for some semblance of control. Perhaps through a stroke of luck, mere coincidence or just clear superiority, the native personality turned out to once again be Kazuna. The large gillian would soon become a much smaller Hollow. Almost appearing like the grim reaper, the adjuchas would seek to devour more. What more was there than to gorge himself in the souls of those like him? There was no sweeter irony.
More years would pass by and Kazuna would become an epoch hunter within the Menos Forest. There were few that could contest his claim to the souls within his little region of the Menos Forest. In a way, it was a paradise for the Hollow as he began to gather more and more of his once lost intelligence. Yet deep down, Kazuna felt that there was more. More to his evolution. A step beyond this to achieve even greater strength. There was one thing that was holding him back.
This mask restricted him. It forced him to a lifetime of servitude to his hunger. This endless hunger. As such, Kazuna only had one more thing on his mind. He needed to rid himself of it. For many days he would approach it from different angles. Simply trying to remove the mask to ramming his head against a wall, but to no avail. All hope seemed lost for the Hollow. Would he be prevented from moving on? Such a cruel fate until suddenly a crack could be heard. With a new sense of invigoration, the Hollow began to tear at his mask eventually finding the strength to rip it off. In a flash of light, the hollow passed out in pain and shock.
The cycle of hatred that befell Kazuna would urge him to do unspeakable things. The first order of business on the new Hollow's mind was to go and devour the souls of the innocent. Returning to his home that he knew so well, his time of indulgent and gluttony would begin. The Hollow would lay siege on his hometown, devouring a few at a time to satiate the incredible hunger. Most would scream as they were devoured whole by Kazuna, all shred of conscious disappeared from the Hollow.
Every night, Kazuna would arrive back at the town to feast on more and more. His endless hunger would in fact become unbearable and it would grow with every passing meal. In a way it was torturous to be condemned to an existence of devouring those that he once called his friends. Yet compassion, empathy and all had disappeared. In its place came a mindless mind that only sought to do one thing. Devour those that he came across. Buildings would be ripped open, families plucked from their beds and nobody knew why.
Eventually the sport of hunting human souls warped poor Kazuna. Years upon years of devouring innocents made him lost his mind even more. Eventually the Hollow would tower above all others in the Human World. The mindless beast chose to go to the only place it could. Hueco Mundo. Within the Menos Forest, the Hollowfied Kazuna would begin to devour others of his kind. Comradery meant nothing if it meant survival. Such was the life of the Hollow. Eventually, these would congregate into a large Gillian.
For many months, possibly even years, the multiple personalities would strive for some semblance of control. Perhaps through a stroke of luck, mere coincidence or just clear superiority, the native personality turned out to once again be Kazuna. The large gillian would soon become a much smaller Hollow. Almost appearing like the grim reaper, the adjuchas would seek to devour more. What more was there than to gorge himself in the souls of those like him? There was no sweeter irony.
More years would pass by and Kazuna would become an epoch hunter within the Menos Forest. There were few that could contest his claim to the souls within his little region of the Menos Forest. In a way, it was a paradise for the Hollow as he began to gather more and more of his once lost intelligence. Yet deep down, Kazuna felt that there was more. More to his evolution. A step beyond this to achieve even greater strength. There was one thing that was holding him back.
This mask restricted him. It forced him to a lifetime of servitude to his hunger. This endless hunger. As such, Kazuna only had one more thing on his mind. He needed to rid himself of it. For many days he would approach it from different angles. Simply trying to remove the mask to ramming his head against a wall, but to no avail. All hope seemed lost for the Hollow. Would he be prevented from moving on? Such a cruel fate until suddenly a crack could be heard. With a new sense of invigoration, the Hollow began to tear at his mask eventually finding the strength to rip it off. In a flash of light, the hollow passed out in pain and shock.
{Chapter III - The Scourge of Hueco Mundo}
As Kazuna woke he felt different. The mask that once plagued him was gone. He felt more powerful as he stood in the cold sand of Hueco Mundo. It had been so long since he used a humanoid form. So long that he stumbled through the sand, falling to it and gritting his teeth. This was his next test. Reborn as an Arrancar, he could achieve new heights. His back felt heavier though. Reaching back, he felt a hilt and looked upon his weapon. A great scythe with which he could cleave his enemies and attain greater strength.
As the Arrancar's experience grew, he would find himself at the gates of Las Noches. Hacking his way through the opposition it seems that he garnered the interest of a high value target. The King of Hueco Mundo himself, Lord of Las Noches and organizer of the Espada offered Kazuna a spot amonst the fabled ranks. Thinking about it for a bit, the Arrancar took the offer and was sworn into the duty of serving his new Lord Kouhai. With this and his new symbol of his status, a 9 imprinted on his back, Kazuna would find himself in many unique situations.
The Arrancar would find himself meeting several members of the Espada, most notably Sargon who had wanted to test him and Shiki who had rescued the poor Noveno Espada from a terrible fate in the Soul Society. Yet despite all of the strife, Kazuna was never prepared for his last mission. When Sonken tasked Kazuna to eliminate an Arrancar who was dealing with temporal and spatial anomalies, Kazuna was prepared to do so without question. Within the Menos forest, however, Kazuna would find and for a short while fight a familiar face. It was Eleana, now an Arrancar.
As the two fought, they ended up falling into the temporal anomaly. After discussing their past, Eleana offered an interesting proposition to Kazuna. Both of their powers were one, fragmented from their bond. To become whole, the two could join forces and become something else. Agreeing to this after just being happy to see his beloved sister again, the last thing that befell Kazuna was a fusion that essentially killed both Eleana and Kazuna. As Eleana promised, the end result would be greater than either of them.
From the portal erupted a beast. A 15 ft long wyvern that wailed with a terrible sound. Quickly moving up to the sands of Hueco Mundo, many Hollows came to meet the challenge, but none were prepared for the biological horror that this creature could inflict. Upon brutally infecting each and every Hollow, the beast eventually began shrinking and returned to a new form. Now female in appearance, lacking a scythe and instead having a proper blade, this new Arrancar would begin to move to Las Noches.
As this new Arrancar ended up in the throne room to tell of the mission, she was met with interest by the King of Las Noches. Regarding this as an interesting development, he simply let her go on with his business. Upon asking this new face for her name she looked back and had a smile on her face. The robes that adorned this new Arrancar reminiscent of a scholar's robes rustled from the movement as she simply bowed and introduced herself as Ailene Haschiro, the Noveno Espada.
As Kazuna woke he felt different. The mask that once plagued him was gone. He felt more powerful as he stood in the cold sand of Hueco Mundo. It had been so long since he used a humanoid form. So long that he stumbled through the sand, falling to it and gritting his teeth. This was his next test. Reborn as an Arrancar, he could achieve new heights. His back felt heavier though. Reaching back, he felt a hilt and looked upon his weapon. A great scythe with which he could cleave his enemies and attain greater strength.
As the Arrancar's experience grew, he would find himself at the gates of Las Noches. Hacking his way through the opposition it seems that he garnered the interest of a high value target. The King of Hueco Mundo himself, Lord of Las Noches and organizer of the Espada offered Kazuna a spot amonst the fabled ranks. Thinking about it for a bit, the Arrancar took the offer and was sworn into the duty of serving his new Lord Kouhai. With this and his new symbol of his status, a 9 imprinted on his back, Kazuna would find himself in many unique situations.
The Arrancar would find himself meeting several members of the Espada, most notably Sargon who had wanted to test him and Shiki who had rescued the poor Noveno Espada from a terrible fate in the Soul Society. Yet despite all of the strife, Kazuna was never prepared for his last mission. When Sonken tasked Kazuna to eliminate an Arrancar who was dealing with temporal and spatial anomalies, Kazuna was prepared to do so without question. Within the Menos forest, however, Kazuna would find and for a short while fight a familiar face. It was Eleana, now an Arrancar.
As the two fought, they ended up falling into the temporal anomaly. After discussing their past, Eleana offered an interesting proposition to Kazuna. Both of their powers were one, fragmented from their bond. To become whole, the two could join forces and become something else. Agreeing to this after just being happy to see his beloved sister again, the last thing that befell Kazuna was a fusion that essentially killed both Eleana and Kazuna. As Eleana promised, the end result would be greater than either of them.
From the portal erupted a beast. A 15 ft long wyvern that wailed with a terrible sound. Quickly moving up to the sands of Hueco Mundo, many Hollows came to meet the challenge, but none were prepared for the biological horror that this creature could inflict. Upon brutally infecting each and every Hollow, the beast eventually began shrinking and returned to a new form. Now female in appearance, lacking a scythe and instead having a proper blade, this new Arrancar would begin to move to Las Noches.
As this new Arrancar ended up in the throne room to tell of the mission, she was met with interest by the King of Las Noches. Regarding this as an interesting development, he simply let her go on with his business. Upon asking this new face for her name she looked back and had a smile on her face. The robes that adorned this new Arrancar reminiscent of a scholar's robes rustled from the movement as she simply bowed and introduced herself as Ailene Haschiro, the Noveno Espada.
{Chapter IV - The Plague Reborn}
Ailene Haschiro would continue on to fill in the spot of Kazuna. For all intents and purposes, Kazuna was deceased as was his sister. Now all that existed was this unique fusion. Sharing similarities with the two siblings, but being an entirely new soul, this allowed Ailene to pursue her own agency. This was most interesting since the new Arrancar suffered total amnesia. Only having glimpses of odd fragmented memories and feelings of Deja Vu that would haunt her.
As she continued to get accustomed to the life of an Espada, Ailene took up a few hobbies. Mostly in research and education although she found herself drawn not only to Germany, but a specific era. The era of the black death. Ailene was acutely aware of her ability to invoke the plague in all things, but she always wondered why she kept being drawn back to this time of all things. As time went on, Ailene would continue to study more and more, becoming increasingly interested in epidemiology.
Eventually, she would receive her first take and look to assault an encampment of Quincy. Naturally, being a non-violent Arrancar, Ailene tried to reason with them, but she seemed to have an unlikely ally. Camila, a Shinigami of the Thirteen Court Guards helped her with the somewhat unjustified eradication these Quincy. Being forced to release left Ailene with little choice as she flew into a frenzy and began devouring the quincies whole, eradicating them and feeding on their corpses. Successfully completing their mission, it would be some time before Ailene crossed paths with Camila again.
Libraries. Offering opportunities for people to enrich themselves and learn more about history and the world around them. This is where Ailene would come in close contact with her first Fullbringer. Luca Castabella. Their meeting would be far from pleasant. Educating each other about Fullbrings and Hollows alike, Luca wished to test his abilities against the Noveno Espada. Leading to a spar, Ailene felt threatened by the Fullbringer. His abilities made her feel weak. It's when she realized that she could very well die. Her back against the wall, Ailene utilized her Resurrecciòn. The battle would be short and vicious as the Arrancar swiftly dug through flesh and bone with one strike. This could have been the end of Luca's story, but the Arrancar took pity on him. He was weak prey. Hunting and devouring him wouldn't even make for good sport. Ailene decided to let him live that day, leaving Luca to fester upon the doorsetp of Uzaki Enterprises.
It seemed that Ailene's battles would be far from over. The former Fracción of the Quarta Espada, Lagos, would come seeking her way into the fabled swords of Las Noches. Ailene had faced her fair share of challenges before. Each and everyone said that they were going to claim their rightful spot and each one of them died trying. A ruthless battle would break out between the two Arrancar. Both using their Resurrecciòn, the fight would rock the shifting sands with battering winds and blistering heat. Eventually, however, Ailene would find herself the victor. Unlike the others, however, Ailene would not kill Lagos. No. She saw a drive within the woman that could be harnessed. Ailene had been looking to ascend the ranks anyway and so she recommended Lagos to take her position while Ailene moved on to become the Septima Espada.
It would be time for Ailene to meet Camila once more. Now the Septima Espada Ailene would be strolling through Karakura, happening upon the Shinigami. There they would show that a friendship between Soul Reaper and Hollow was not so easily had. The clashing philosophies would cause them to do battle. Camila would show impressive ability and tactics in their fight, but it would soon be dwarfed by the sheer power of Ailene's Resurrecciòn. Just as the battle seemed lost for the Shinigami, something awakened within her. A power that rivaled that of even the Septima Espada. An Inner Hollow emerged, possessing Camila and giving Ailene a hard-fought battle. While the battle was still won, Ailene recognized the sheer ferocity and power demonstrated by this Inner Hollow. As a reward, Ailene would not kill her. Instead, the Arrancar offered a Garganta that would soon lead to her defection from Soul Society.
Despite all the adversity that she had faced, one final battle remained for Ailene. With the introduction of the Tercera Espada, Arcadus, Ailene felt that it would provide an incredible opportunity for her to see just how much she had grown. Agreeing to go until one of their Hierro cracked, Ailene demonstrated some impressive bounce. Upon utilizing both their Resurrecciòn, however, what was once a spar became a brutal display of power from both sides. Eventually, both find themselves satisfied. However, something within Ailene was left... wanting. Her experiences with the Espada had largely included worthless posturing. Were they capable of anything else? Ailene had yet to see.
Ailene Haschiro would continue on to fill in the spot of Kazuna. For all intents and purposes, Kazuna was deceased as was his sister. Now all that existed was this unique fusion. Sharing similarities with the two siblings, but being an entirely new soul, this allowed Ailene to pursue her own agency. This was most interesting since the new Arrancar suffered total amnesia. Only having glimpses of odd fragmented memories and feelings of Deja Vu that would haunt her.
As she continued to get accustomed to the life of an Espada, Ailene took up a few hobbies. Mostly in research and education although she found herself drawn not only to Germany, but a specific era. The era of the black death. Ailene was acutely aware of her ability to invoke the plague in all things, but she always wondered why she kept being drawn back to this time of all things. As time went on, Ailene would continue to study more and more, becoming increasingly interested in epidemiology.
Eventually, she would receive her first take and look to assault an encampment of Quincy. Naturally, being a non-violent Arrancar, Ailene tried to reason with them, but she seemed to have an unlikely ally. Camila, a Shinigami of the Thirteen Court Guards helped her with the somewhat unjustified eradication these Quincy. Being forced to release left Ailene with little choice as she flew into a frenzy and began devouring the quincies whole, eradicating them and feeding on their corpses. Successfully completing their mission, it would be some time before Ailene crossed paths with Camila again.
Libraries. Offering opportunities for people to enrich themselves and learn more about history and the world around them. This is where Ailene would come in close contact with her first Fullbringer. Luca Castabella. Their meeting would be far from pleasant. Educating each other about Fullbrings and Hollows alike, Luca wished to test his abilities against the Noveno Espada. Leading to a spar, Ailene felt threatened by the Fullbringer. His abilities made her feel weak. It's when she realized that she could very well die. Her back against the wall, Ailene utilized her Resurrecciòn. The battle would be short and vicious as the Arrancar swiftly dug through flesh and bone with one strike. This could have been the end of Luca's story, but the Arrancar took pity on him. He was weak prey. Hunting and devouring him wouldn't even make for good sport. Ailene decided to let him live that day, leaving Luca to fester upon the doorsetp of Uzaki Enterprises.
It seemed that Ailene's battles would be far from over. The former Fracción of the Quarta Espada, Lagos, would come seeking her way into the fabled swords of Las Noches. Ailene had faced her fair share of challenges before. Each and everyone said that they were going to claim their rightful spot and each one of them died trying. A ruthless battle would break out between the two Arrancar. Both using their Resurrecciòn, the fight would rock the shifting sands with battering winds and blistering heat. Eventually, however, Ailene would find herself the victor. Unlike the others, however, Ailene would not kill Lagos. No. She saw a drive within the woman that could be harnessed. Ailene had been looking to ascend the ranks anyway and so she recommended Lagos to take her position while Ailene moved on to become the Septima Espada.
It would be time for Ailene to meet Camila once more. Now the Septima Espada Ailene would be strolling through Karakura, happening upon the Shinigami. There they would show that a friendship between Soul Reaper and Hollow was not so easily had. The clashing philosophies would cause them to do battle. Camila would show impressive ability and tactics in their fight, but it would soon be dwarfed by the sheer power of Ailene's Resurrecciòn. Just as the battle seemed lost for the Shinigami, something awakened within her. A power that rivaled that of even the Septima Espada. An Inner Hollow emerged, possessing Camila and giving Ailene a hard-fought battle. While the battle was still won, Ailene recognized the sheer ferocity and power demonstrated by this Inner Hollow. As a reward, Ailene would not kill her. Instead, the Arrancar offered a Garganta that would soon lead to her defection from Soul Society.
Despite all the adversity that she had faced, one final battle remained for Ailene. With the introduction of the Tercera Espada, Arcadus, Ailene felt that it would provide an incredible opportunity for her to see just how much she had grown. Agreeing to go until one of their Hierro cracked, Ailene demonstrated some impressive bounce. Upon utilizing both their Resurrecciòn, however, what was once a spar became a brutal display of power from both sides. Eventually, both find themselves satisfied. However, something within Ailene was left... wanting. Her experiences with the Espada had largely included worthless posturing. Were they capable of anything else? Ailene had yet to see.
{Chapter V - With Friends Like These...}
It had been some time since Ailene had engaged in any meaningful combat. In fact, the Arrancar had decided to pursue more leisure activities such as her studies or expanding upon her collection. Tasked by Kouhai to improve her fighting spirit, Ailene would come into contact with the Akki, Orobas. Disguised as Privaron Espada, Maximiliano proposed a test of Ailene's abilities. Seeing it as nothing more than a simple spar, the Esptima Espada agreed. Forced into Resurrecciòn by Orobas' Kurohitsugi, the spar would soon become a full-blown battle. Even after many struggles, Ailene would find herself beaten by Orobas. The Akki would take great interest in her and leaving Ailene curious about their true motivations, the Septima Espada would invite him to her quarters for tea.
Resigning to her quarters, Ailene would happily host Orobas. Brewing tea and discussing the finer qualities of life, Ailene was fascinated by the Akki. However the Akki had ulterior motives as well. Planning an invasion of the Soul Society, Orobas offered her a place in those plans should she desire it. Ailene had to admit that she had little love for Soul Society. Yet she could not find herself accompanying such an invasion. After all, she was a peaceful soul. It seemed that there were no hard feelings. This was also the first step to Ailene opening Rēgīna. The Akki, impressed with her brew, was happily willing to invest in her, financing a building for her dreams of creating a tea shop. Needless to say, Ailene was ecstatic and would kickstart her friendship with the Envainar of Humanity.
It was time for Ailene and Camila to meet for their final time. Camila, now a Rogue Shinigami, came to Las Noches in an effort to gain an audience with Lord Kouhai. It would be here that her and the Septima Espada would meet once more. Granting her safe passage into and through the many twisting hallways of Las Noches, Ailene led Camila to the throne room where the King of Las Noches resided. It would be here that he deemed Camila not worth her time. She be cast into Ailene's care, but it would be one of the last few times that Camila and Ailene would share a moment together as the Shinigami sought to prove herself by challenging Guujin.
It was time for Ailene to leave her own mark upon Las Noches. It was time for the first-ever Las Noches Book Club! Spreading flyers around the fortress and even with the World of the Living, Ailene prepared her quarters for any who showed up. She had hoped that more Espada had shown interest, but for right now, Arcadus was the only other to grace the event. Orobas had naturally shown up and a certain Col Arana, going by an alias of Kumo Ohmsford. Passing themselves off as Números & Privaron Espada, Ailene was disappointed by the apparent lack of her comrades. While the book club continued with some success, to Ailene this was the beginning of her distaste.
It would be some time till Ailene would talk with her fellow Espada again. Occasionally having Orobas over for a cup of tea and idle conversation was nice, but so far the Espada had shown little interest in her activities of late. It ached her. It soured her mood. Though she was determined. For now, though, she had to focus on the opening of her upcoming shop, Rēgīna. Orobas had already financed the building, beginning construction. On her travels to find new tea ingredients, the Espada would come across a most unlikely alley. The Mod Soul known as Shio Kyrou. Shio, however, did not see herself as a Mod Soul. No, she saw herself as a Hollow, expecting others to see her like that.
Ailene found her struggling in a display glass and promptly rescued her. Taking her to a nearby park, the two would have their first conversation. Suddenly their engagement had turned sour. In a manner not unlike Eclipse, Ailene chose to pet the feline-like plushie that carried the pill of the Mod Soul. Challenging her to a fight, Ailene fired an extremely weak Cero, but had underestimated the ability of Shio. In a vicious display, Ailene had torn her to shreds. Her lifeless form laying on the floor, Shio entrusted Ailene with her Mod Soul pill. From there, Ailene went on a daring rescue mission to restore the Mod Soul in the shop where she had found her.
This would not be the final escapade that Ailene shared with Shio. Taking her to Las Noches, the Septima Espada bonded with the Mod Soul. Under the cover of endless night, as went to the World of the Living to retrieve a book on doll restoration, the Mod Soul was nowhere to be found. As if swallowed up by the ground, Ailene comically searched for Shio in Las Noches, but to no avail. Soon, the Arrancar would discover her in the Menos Forest. There she would provoke the Mod Soul as another fight between them erupted. Once more, Ailene would surgically dismantle Shio not only physically, but emotionally with Charla Serena. Distraught over the damage to her friend, Ailene would return with her to Las Noches, vowing to spend as many days as needed to repair the broken body of the Mod Soul.
It had been some time since Ailene had engaged in any meaningful combat. In fact, the Arrancar had decided to pursue more leisure activities such as her studies or expanding upon her collection. Tasked by Kouhai to improve her fighting spirit, Ailene would come into contact with the Akki, Orobas. Disguised as Privaron Espada, Maximiliano proposed a test of Ailene's abilities. Seeing it as nothing more than a simple spar, the Esptima Espada agreed. Forced into Resurrecciòn by Orobas' Kurohitsugi, the spar would soon become a full-blown battle. Even after many struggles, Ailene would find herself beaten by Orobas. The Akki would take great interest in her and leaving Ailene curious about their true motivations, the Septima Espada would invite him to her quarters for tea.
Resigning to her quarters, Ailene would happily host Orobas. Brewing tea and discussing the finer qualities of life, Ailene was fascinated by the Akki. However the Akki had ulterior motives as well. Planning an invasion of the Soul Society, Orobas offered her a place in those plans should she desire it. Ailene had to admit that she had little love for Soul Society. Yet she could not find herself accompanying such an invasion. After all, she was a peaceful soul. It seemed that there were no hard feelings. This was also the first step to Ailene opening Rēgīna. The Akki, impressed with her brew, was happily willing to invest in her, financing a building for her dreams of creating a tea shop. Needless to say, Ailene was ecstatic and would kickstart her friendship with the Envainar of Humanity.
It was time for Ailene and Camila to meet for their final time. Camila, now a Rogue Shinigami, came to Las Noches in an effort to gain an audience with Lord Kouhai. It would be here that her and the Septima Espada would meet once more. Granting her safe passage into and through the many twisting hallways of Las Noches, Ailene led Camila to the throne room where the King of Las Noches resided. It would be here that he deemed Camila not worth her time. She be cast into Ailene's care, but it would be one of the last few times that Camila and Ailene would share a moment together as the Shinigami sought to prove herself by challenging Guujin.
It was time for Ailene to leave her own mark upon Las Noches. It was time for the first-ever Las Noches Book Club! Spreading flyers around the fortress and even with the World of the Living, Ailene prepared her quarters for any who showed up. She had hoped that more Espada had shown interest, but for right now, Arcadus was the only other to grace the event. Orobas had naturally shown up and a certain Col Arana, going by an alias of Kumo Ohmsford. Passing themselves off as Números & Privaron Espada, Ailene was disappointed by the apparent lack of her comrades. While the book club continued with some success, to Ailene this was the beginning of her distaste.
It would be some time till Ailene would talk with her fellow Espada again. Occasionally having Orobas over for a cup of tea and idle conversation was nice, but so far the Espada had shown little interest in her activities of late. It ached her. It soured her mood. Though she was determined. For now, though, she had to focus on the opening of her upcoming shop, Rēgīna. Orobas had already financed the building, beginning construction. On her travels to find new tea ingredients, the Espada would come across a most unlikely alley. The Mod Soul known as Shio Kyrou. Shio, however, did not see herself as a Mod Soul. No, she saw herself as a Hollow, expecting others to see her like that.
Ailene found her struggling in a display glass and promptly rescued her. Taking her to a nearby park, the two would have their first conversation. Suddenly their engagement had turned sour. In a manner not unlike Eclipse, Ailene chose to pet the feline-like plushie that carried the pill of the Mod Soul. Challenging her to a fight, Ailene fired an extremely weak Cero, but had underestimated the ability of Shio. In a vicious display, Ailene had torn her to shreds. Her lifeless form laying on the floor, Shio entrusted Ailene with her Mod Soul pill. From there, Ailene went on a daring rescue mission to restore the Mod Soul in the shop where she had found her.
This would not be the final escapade that Ailene shared with Shio. Taking her to Las Noches, the Septima Espada bonded with the Mod Soul. Under the cover of endless night, as went to the World of the Living to retrieve a book on doll restoration, the Mod Soul was nowhere to be found. As if swallowed up by the ground, Ailene comically searched for Shio in Las Noches, but to no avail. Soon, the Arrancar would discover her in the Menos Forest. There she would provoke the Mod Soul as another fight between them erupted. Once more, Ailene would surgically dismantle Shio not only physically, but emotionally with Charla Serena. Distraught over the damage to her friend, Ailene would return with her to Las Noches, vowing to spend as many days as needed to repair the broken body of the Mod Soul.
{Chapter VI - The Search for Happiness}
Having created unnecessary friction between herself and the Mod Soul, Ailene would herself growing more distant with Shio. Ailene needed time to think. Those she valued were beginning to drift away from her. Orobas stopped visiting... Shio and her drifted apart... even Camila had suffered a terrible death at the hands of Guujin. It seemed that everyone she came into contact with was destined to face either destruction or solitude. As a result, Ailene would find herself in Kabukichō, The Town That Never Sleeps. She needed a distraction and it is here that she would come into contact with the most unlikely of people.
Kimiko Nakajima, Third Seat of the Eleventh Division. Instead of assessing her as a threat and killing her, the Espada and the Third Seat decided to band together in an effort to find a Hollow by the name of Walker. Unfortunately, the two women would be caught in the middle of an underground black market that captured and experimented on Hollows. Despite that, Kimiko would offer an opportunity for Ailene to vent all of her anger that she had. She'd tell the Third Seat about how she visited the Rukongai to escape the stressors of being an Arrancar, how she wished that she had been dealt a fairer hand in life, how she sometimes desperately wished that a Shinigami had found her and purified her. Eventually, the two women would find Walker and purify him, leaving Ailene to invite Kimiko to her future tea shop.
The grand opening of Rēgīna was upon her! Having developed a technique that allowed her to seal her Hollow reiatsu within her Zanpakutō, she finally developed the perfect guise to run her shop without interference from Shinigami or Vandenreich meddlers. The opening of Rēgīna was the highlight of Ailene's existence thus far. Quickly finding numerous customers who would become patrons of Rēgīna, Ailene was truly happy. Every day she'd be able to listen to the stories of others, serve tea and watch their spirits be lifted. It was a beautiful thing and a moment that Ailene truly lived for.
After some time since opening Rēgīna, Ailene would find herself hosting the new Primera Espada, Charlotte Bucker, on pretty short notice. The Septima Espada was no stranger to hosting guests. After all, she had been doing so for months with Orobas. Those times were over though Ailene was eager to get to meet the Primera Espada. After all, she represented the greatest that their order had to offer. Even more powerful than Arcadus, Ailene would find herself growing rather fond of Charlotte. She had a grace and set of manners that she felt far outstripped the otherwise arrogant Tercera Espada.
Meeting with Charlotte would offer another opportunity just as with Kimiko. Charlotte had been the only one to ask Ailene her motives for joining the Espada. Ripping off the veil, Ailene would offer her honest opinions on the matter. She had realized some time ago that her life as an Espada was a mold she did not fit. Las Noches desired the powerful. Those that truly represented the best of Hollowkind. Ailene was powerful. There was no doubt about it, but she simply did not fit in among her fellow Espada. It would be a topic that would increase Charlotte as she tried to convince Ailene to not throw everything away. However, this was the turning point. This would plant the seed in Ailene's mind.
Having created unnecessary friction between herself and the Mod Soul, Ailene would herself growing more distant with Shio. Ailene needed time to think. Those she valued were beginning to drift away from her. Orobas stopped visiting... Shio and her drifted apart... even Camila had suffered a terrible death at the hands of Guujin. It seemed that everyone she came into contact with was destined to face either destruction or solitude. As a result, Ailene would find herself in Kabukichō, The Town That Never Sleeps. She needed a distraction and it is here that she would come into contact with the most unlikely of people.
Kimiko Nakajima, Third Seat of the Eleventh Division. Instead of assessing her as a threat and killing her, the Espada and the Third Seat decided to band together in an effort to find a Hollow by the name of Walker. Unfortunately, the two women would be caught in the middle of an underground black market that captured and experimented on Hollows. Despite that, Kimiko would offer an opportunity for Ailene to vent all of her anger that she had. She'd tell the Third Seat about how she visited the Rukongai to escape the stressors of being an Arrancar, how she wished that she had been dealt a fairer hand in life, how she sometimes desperately wished that a Shinigami had found her and purified her. Eventually, the two women would find Walker and purify him, leaving Ailene to invite Kimiko to her future tea shop.
The grand opening of Rēgīna was upon her! Having developed a technique that allowed her to seal her Hollow reiatsu within her Zanpakutō, she finally developed the perfect guise to run her shop without interference from Shinigami or Vandenreich meddlers. The opening of Rēgīna was the highlight of Ailene's existence thus far. Quickly finding numerous customers who would become patrons of Rēgīna, Ailene was truly happy. Every day she'd be able to listen to the stories of others, serve tea and watch their spirits be lifted. It was a beautiful thing and a moment that Ailene truly lived for.
After some time since opening Rēgīna, Ailene would find herself hosting the new Primera Espada, Charlotte Bucker, on pretty short notice. The Septima Espada was no stranger to hosting guests. After all, she had been doing so for months with Orobas. Those times were over though Ailene was eager to get to meet the Primera Espada. After all, she represented the greatest that their order had to offer. Even more powerful than Arcadus, Ailene would find herself growing rather fond of Charlotte. She had a grace and set of manners that she felt far outstripped the otherwise arrogant Tercera Espada.
Meeting with Charlotte would offer another opportunity just as with Kimiko. Charlotte had been the only one to ask Ailene her motives for joining the Espada. Ripping off the veil, Ailene would offer her honest opinions on the matter. She had realized some time ago that her life as an Espada was a mold she did not fit. Las Noches desired the powerful. Those that truly represented the best of Hollowkind. Ailene was powerful. There was no doubt about it, but she simply did not fit in among her fellow Espada. It would be a topic that would increase Charlotte as she tried to convince Ailene to not throw everything away. However, this was the turning point. This would plant the seed in Ailene's mind.
{Chapter VII - A Level Beyond Resurrecciòn}
Ruminating atop the dome of Las Noches was the Septima Espada, Ailene. Ever since the opening of Rēgīna and her meeting with Charlotte, she had been left wanting. Every day when she regained her Hollow reiatsu after a hard days' work at Rēgīna, she'd be forced to look upon the lie she was living. She was an Arrancar masquerading herself as a Human. She had developed the ability to hide among them like a wolf in sheep clothing. It was then that she realized. Had she ever truly been happy? Could she ever truly be happy? She had to seek an answer to all this. She had to know... was it possible to discard her powers?
Returning to her quarters which served as a repository of information on many topics, Ailene had little luck. Contemplating seeking out Serraph, Ailene dismissed the idea for one simple reason. Arrancar were proud. The Espada even more. They had achieved power that could only be dreamed of by many others. Their fantastic abilities were meant for only one thing, however. Death and chaos. They were engines of destruction. Charlotte had made that quite clear to her. Even if there were any information on the topic, it would likely be considered to taboo for any Arrancar to seek out. Such information would be undoubtedly destroyed. It was clear to Ailene. She needed to seek aid elsewhere.
That's when it came to her. The Soul Society had its own knowledge base. In fact, their information would likely be less restricted, but it would be a dangerous game. After all, she was still an Arrancar. There'd surely be orders for her to be killed on sight. Using both Regresión Primigenia and a reiatsu scrambler, Ailene chose to masquerade herself as a Shinigami to freely explore the Rukongai. After all, she was sure that there were libraries within the civilian districts of Soul Society. It was time for her to finally get some answers. With a Garganta, she traveled to the Rukongai seeking information that would not make itself easily found.
After a close call with two Shinigami, Ailene would find herself in a place known as Time For Tomes. There she'd discover the chest that would provide all the answers she sought. After opening it and being subject to a terrible shriek, Ailene found herself nearly avoiding being swallowed by her own Garganta as she found herself in a new place. She would be kneeling before an aged man known only as The Guru. There he'd reveal to her what she sought. She'd receive a vision of a power that transcended Resurrecciòn. An ability that would allow her to finally separate from Las Noches though it came at a steep price.
It was revealed to her that she would need to do the one thing she despised. She needed to embrace what it meant to be a Hollow. Returning to the Menos Forest, Ailene finally allowed her Resurrecciòn which had been slumbering for some time at this point to emerge. Her darker half would intertwine with her and together they would do the unthinkable. For hours, Ailene would travel around the Menos Forest, devouring anything that came her way. There would be blood everywhere. Discard corpses littered the ground. The air was thick with the stench of death. She would not leave until she was satisfied. Until her hunger was satiated. It would be here that she would finally embrace the Hollow within. Ailene was already at the peak of her power and yet she felt something awaken within her. The potential she had been waiting for. The key to reconciling her plight after all this time. The Saigo No Houmen, an ability that had become lost as myth and legend.
Ruminating atop the dome of Las Noches was the Septima Espada, Ailene. Ever since the opening of Rēgīna and her meeting with Charlotte, she had been left wanting. Every day when she regained her Hollow reiatsu after a hard days' work at Rēgīna, she'd be forced to look upon the lie she was living. She was an Arrancar masquerading herself as a Human. She had developed the ability to hide among them like a wolf in sheep clothing. It was then that she realized. Had she ever truly been happy? Could she ever truly be happy? She had to seek an answer to all this. She had to know... was it possible to discard her powers?
Returning to her quarters which served as a repository of information on many topics, Ailene had little luck. Contemplating seeking out Serraph, Ailene dismissed the idea for one simple reason. Arrancar were proud. The Espada even more. They had achieved power that could only be dreamed of by many others. Their fantastic abilities were meant for only one thing, however. Death and chaos. They were engines of destruction. Charlotte had made that quite clear to her. Even if there were any information on the topic, it would likely be considered to taboo for any Arrancar to seek out. Such information would be undoubtedly destroyed. It was clear to Ailene. She needed to seek aid elsewhere.
That's when it came to her. The Soul Society had its own knowledge base. In fact, their information would likely be less restricted, but it would be a dangerous game. After all, she was still an Arrancar. There'd surely be orders for her to be killed on sight. Using both Regresión Primigenia and a reiatsu scrambler, Ailene chose to masquerade herself as a Shinigami to freely explore the Rukongai. After all, she was sure that there were libraries within the civilian districts of Soul Society. It was time for her to finally get some answers. With a Garganta, she traveled to the Rukongai seeking information that would not make itself easily found.
After a close call with two Shinigami, Ailene would find herself in a place known as Time For Tomes. There she'd discover the chest that would provide all the answers she sought. After opening it and being subject to a terrible shriek, Ailene found herself nearly avoiding being swallowed by her own Garganta as she found herself in a new place. She would be kneeling before an aged man known only as The Guru. There he'd reveal to her what she sought. She'd receive a vision of a power that transcended Resurrecciòn. An ability that would allow her to finally separate from Las Noches though it came at a steep price.
It was revealed to her that she would need to do the one thing she despised. She needed to embrace what it meant to be a Hollow. Returning to the Menos Forest, Ailene finally allowed her Resurrecciòn which had been slumbering for some time at this point to emerge. Her darker half would intertwine with her and together they would do the unthinkable. For hours, Ailene would travel around the Menos Forest, devouring anything that came her way. There would be blood everywhere. Discard corpses littered the ground. The air was thick with the stench of death. She would not leave until she was satisfied. Until her hunger was satiated. It would be here that she would finally embrace the Hollow within. Ailene was already at the peak of her power and yet she felt something awaken within her. The potential she had been waiting for. The key to reconciling her plight after all this time. The Saigo No Houmen, an ability that had become lost as myth and legend.
{Chapter VIII - Humanity Restored}
Spending time at Rēgīna had become more normal to the Espada than residing at Las Noches. Taking on a new waitress in the form of a human known as Amber, the Arrancar was expecting a fairly normal day. This would all change with the introduction of a familiar face. Third Seat of the Eleventh Division, Kimiko Nakajima, was on vacation and found herself at Rēgīna. It wouldn't take long for the Shinigami and the Arrancar to recognize each other. After making her tea, the Arrancar sat with the Shinigami to catch up. They would not speak as Espada and Seated Officer, but instead as old acquaintances.
Their conversation would go to many places, both giving the other insight into the others' lives and activities as of late. Ever the inquisitive one, Ailene would find herself showing interest in the art of swordsmanship to which Kimiko offered some training. Accepting and closing Rēgīna early for the day, the two women headed to the nearby forest in Karakura to train. After several hours of this training, Kimiko's passion and excitement inspired Ailene. Not only to do better as an honorary student, but also to finally overcome her doubts. With renewed willpower, Ailene finally used her Saigo No Houmen.
After unleashing such powerful reiatsu, Ailene allowed herself with Kimiko against the horde of Hollows who were attracted to the sudden surge and expecting a decent meal. Instead, these Hollows would only find misery as they stood no chance against Ailene's evolved form and Kimiko's Inner Hollow, Yume. Sometime throughout the slaughter, Ailene came face to face with the Inner Hollow. After a short back and forth banter, Yume requested the Arrancar to eradicate the Hollows. Seeing that it would be to her benefit as well, Ailene decided to unleash her ultimate attack upon the horde, Necrotic Nova.
Transforming into a decaying dragon, Ailene unleashed a powerful mist of reiatsu and bacteria that utterly ravaged every living thing in a 1-mile radius. Hollows, trees, animals and any unlucky humans alike were quickly devoured by the mist, their souls destroyed and effectively erased from existence. After this display, Ailene's form quickly deteriorated and she landed near the outskirts of Karakura. As her Hollow Hole sealed, her Mask Fragment shattered and her Reiryoku quickly faded, Ailene quickly passed out. Her unconscious body simply appeared as a human survivor of the vicious Hollow attack.
Waking up from a coma after ten days, Ailene spent another three weeks recovering at Manako Clinic. While attending as a patient, she was visited occasionally by both Amber and Kimiko. As a way to accept her past, Ailene decided to confide within Amber. She would tell the red-headed girl everything. Her beginnings 700 years ago, her time as a Hollow and then her tenure as Espada of Las Noches. Despite earning some initial ire from the girl, Ailene would find Amber to be understanding due to the good she tried to accomplish despite the hand she had been dealt. After a month of recovery, returning to Rēgīna. There she met the Shinigami who briefed her on events during her absence and Ailene's quest to live a normal life could begin. Unknown to her, however, this is certainly not the end of her journey in dealing with the Spiritual Realm.
Spending time at Rēgīna had become more normal to the Espada than residing at Las Noches. Taking on a new waitress in the form of a human known as Amber, the Arrancar was expecting a fairly normal day. This would all change with the introduction of a familiar face. Third Seat of the Eleventh Division, Kimiko Nakajima, was on vacation and found herself at Rēgīna. It wouldn't take long for the Shinigami and the Arrancar to recognize each other. After making her tea, the Arrancar sat with the Shinigami to catch up. They would not speak as Espada and Seated Officer, but instead as old acquaintances.
Their conversation would go to many places, both giving the other insight into the others' lives and activities as of late. Ever the inquisitive one, Ailene would find herself showing interest in the art of swordsmanship to which Kimiko offered some training. Accepting and closing Rēgīna early for the day, the two women headed to the nearby forest in Karakura to train. After several hours of this training, Kimiko's passion and excitement inspired Ailene. Not only to do better as an honorary student, but also to finally overcome her doubts. With renewed willpower, Ailene finally used her Saigo No Houmen.
After unleashing such powerful reiatsu, Ailene allowed herself with Kimiko against the horde of Hollows who were attracted to the sudden surge and expecting a decent meal. Instead, these Hollows would only find misery as they stood no chance against Ailene's evolved form and Kimiko's Inner Hollow, Yume. Sometime throughout the slaughter, Ailene came face to face with the Inner Hollow. After a short back and forth banter, Yume requested the Arrancar to eradicate the Hollows. Seeing that it would be to her benefit as well, Ailene decided to unleash her ultimate attack upon the horde, Necrotic Nova.
Transforming into a decaying dragon, Ailene unleashed a powerful mist of reiatsu and bacteria that utterly ravaged every living thing in a 1-mile radius. Hollows, trees, animals and any unlucky humans alike were quickly devoured by the mist, their souls destroyed and effectively erased from existence. After this display, Ailene's form quickly deteriorated and she landed near the outskirts of Karakura. As her Hollow Hole sealed, her Mask Fragment shattered and her Reiryoku quickly faded, Ailene quickly passed out. Her unconscious body simply appeared as a human survivor of the vicious Hollow attack.
Waking up from a coma after ten days, Ailene spent another three weeks recovering at Manako Clinic. While attending as a patient, she was visited occasionally by both Amber and Kimiko. As a way to accept her past, Ailene decided to confide within Amber. She would tell the red-headed girl everything. Her beginnings 700 years ago, her time as a Hollow and then her tenure as Espada of Las Noches. Despite earning some initial ire from the girl, Ailene would find Amber to be understanding due to the good she tried to accomplish despite the hand she had been dealt. After a month of recovery, returning to Rēgīna. There she met the Shinigami who briefed her on events during her absence and Ailene's quest to live a normal life could begin. Unknown to her, however, this is certainly not the end of her journey in dealing with the Spiritual Realm.
