Innocent visitor [Invasion? | Open to Gotei 13]

[Deleted]

Caballero landed on their stubby little feet, Filo on one hand, and silence filled the area for a second. A moment after, both halves of the body of a Stray Hollow fell to the ground, turning into blue strands of Reishi that were soon dispersed and scattered into oblivion, perhaps returning to another part of the soul cycle. The tiny Adjuchas did not make any effort to consume the creature; their hunger had been sated, and they would not give in to the endless peckish feeling that resulted from it. For the time being, they had more than enough to last a long while. The little knight felt nothing for their own kin other than contempt and hatred, but now that the monster was dead, they could only hope that lost soul would soon find some peace.

The Adjuchas let Filo vanish into black Reiatsu that also went up in smoke, and turned their attention toward the two Plus that they had been protecting. Having been hunted by the Stray, they were still slightly confused as they thought Caballero to be yet another monster at first... but a monster that had protected them, and whose aura was so overwhelmingly positive that they felt more at ease. Caballero approached them slowly, ensuring that the two souls would not think they wanted to eat them or anything of the sort. Instead, the tiny creature took the even smaller "sword", if one could call it such, that rested on their back, entangled in the rags with which they covered their body.

This sword was rather blunt, clearly not made for fighting of any sort. If anything, it looked like a toy, completely different from the one that they had used to put an end to the life of that Stray. However, this weapon had a particular property that Caballero would never be able to replicate on their own: the ability to perform Konso and purify souls, sending them to Soul Society. A power inherent to a Shinigami's Zanpakuto, and another reminder that, no matter how much they wished for it to be otherwise, Caballero was not one.

Although the Pluses didn't really understand, Caballero took a moment to put them at ease by showing them that the sword wouldn't cut with ease. Instead, the touch of the blade was supposed to perform that purification, though it would hardly have any effect on their soul, which was not just a compound of a myriad Hollows, but also far more powerful than that of any ordinary spirit. However, it would be effective on the Pluses, and with two light touches, Konso would take place for the two of them. Caballero's positivity also put them at ease regarding the whole process, so one of the souls gave them some parting words before disappearing.

"Thank you, little guy! Take care of yourself!"

The tiny bean waved the two souls goodbye as they vanished into strands of Reishi, leaving naught behind but two hell butterflies that fluttered away from the Hollow. It reminded the tiny knight of the time they had met Celes, back when they still believed themselves to be part of the Gotei 13. The spirits would be gone to Soul Society, where most of Caballero's 'friends', if they would be allowed to still call them such, would be. The little Hollow knight hadn't seen them since becoming a Menos, losing their mind, and then regaining it again. So much had happened in such a short span of time...

Now that they were aware of their nature, it was very difficult for them to believe that some of the heaviest hitters among the Thirteen Court Guard Squads would have not immediately known they were a Hollow. Why, then, hadn't they immediately killed them on sight? What exactly made them different from their kin, other than a desire to do good? And why exactly did they believe they were a Shinigami in the first place? Those, and many more burning questions, they hadn't been able to answer on their own. Perhaps someone more knowledgeable would be able to tell them, but that someone most likely did not live in Hueco Mundo nor the World of the Living.

It didn't take Caballero too long to decide that they wanted to go to Soul Society as well. They wanted answers, but more than that, they wanted to see their friends. Unfortunately, they were completely unaware of the sheer size of that world, and that it would most likely be impossible for them to find them. Even if they had known, however, it was safe to say that the little creature would've not been deterred by this. They were, after all, incredibly stubborn, silencing their hunger through sheer strength of will alone.

The little guy may have been a bit innocent, but they were not stupid. They knew that arriving in Soul Society just like that would warrant some sort of explanation. As such, they scoured the city until they found a copy store from which they could take a notebook, a few large sheets of paper with which to make a few signs, and a couple of pens. They used what they understood to be money and left them on the counter, although whether the quantity was correct was another matter altogether--in fact, they grossly overpaid for everything. With that done, the tiny bean went to the outskirts of town, and opened a Kumon gate. Hopefully, no Hollows would find the entrance and follow them, since Kumon was a rather crude method of travel that had far too many drawbacks. When using the technique, they drew on the feeling that resulted from performing Konso, as picturing it would make it easier to travel to Soul Society. They hadn't been there before, after all.

Caballero didn't think twice before jumping into the Garganta once again, and it took them a surprisingly small amount of time to reach their destination. Although the Kumon gate was opened in the middle of the sky, leaving the Hollow on a free fall, it wasn't that bad. In fact, it gave Caballero a bird's eye view of the Rukongai, or at the very least, the district they were on top of. Buildings and streets sprawled as far as the eye could see. All sorts of souls wandered about, going over their day. In the far distance, the Seireitei stood tall and proud, presiding over Soul Society.

Caballero used Tendón to ensure a proper landing by grappling onto nearby buildings and letting themselves drop on the ground. Since the air was just as dense in Reishi as it was in Hueco Mundo, they were unabel to use air ground in the usual way. Given their small size, and the fact that they were not overtly flexing their spiritual energy on anyone, the Adjuchas was unnoticed by the souls below; all those eyes were fixed on the still open Kumon gate, looking like a crystal-like tear in the sky... until Caballero landed, that was. Some of them recognized what a Hollow was, and the moment they saw the helmet-like white mask, they went into a panic.

Still, Caballero was ready. They had come prepared for this eventuality. Without losing a second, they took out one of the large pieces of paper they had prepared, and opened it for the world to see. The sign they were showing was rather simple. The caligraphy left much to be desired, but it was perfectly readable. Ailene's lessons had been quite thorough, and while they had gained remarkable proficiency in a short amount of time, it had been far too little time for them to be able to write proper sentences. Well, as long as they could convey their feelings and intentions, all was good.

With this declaration of intentions unfurled, the tiny bean walked alongside the streets of Rukongai, unintentionally causing an isolated panic--although those who didn't run away would quickly realize that the monster was not attacking. Whether they could understand the writing was one thing, but at the very least, Caballero was not just rampaging there like a mindless, starving Menos. Still, with a Kumon gate open and an Adjuchas in the Rukongai, perhaps the Gotei 13's answer might be swift. Or not. After all, it was not like Caballero was fully privy to their systems and politics.

OOC:
Reiatsu: 3500 -50[Purification Blade Konso] = 3450

Also stats!

Stat	SP	Type
Strength	75	50
Speed	400	400
Reiatsu Strength	400	600
Spiritual Pressure	350	350
Senses	50	50
Instinct	125	125
Energy Sensory	0	0
Healing Expertise	0	0
Light Aura	100
Dark Aura	0

[Satoshi Kazuhiko]

It had become common for Kazuhiko to take trips through the Rukongaai ever since getting back. His decision to wander into the leser districts of Soul Society had been what had gotten him kidnapped. But it had also enabled him to discover the man who would not too long after, invade Soul Society. Had he been stronger at that time... Perhaps he could have stopped him then. Regardless, he counted this patrol among the reasons that Soul Society had been ready to engage his attack.

Also. There wasn't any paper work to do in the Rukongai!

Kazuhiko had been promoted to Third Seat of Squad 4. Over the more clever Iroka and over his far more combat-capable sister, Fuuko. He was under the assumption that this was due to his ability to not only survive and endure the lands of Hueco Mundo and Las Noches itself. But to have also unlocked his Shikai under such duress. As well as resist the probings of the King of Las Noches himself. He had wanted to be strong enough to protect everyone. And he knew that meant taking on more responsibility. But he hadn't anticipated how much he'd be using a rubber stamp and taking inventory.

His station had changed. But, physically he had changed as well. He'd gone through something of a rapid metamorphosis. For those who hadn't seen him since before his kidnapping, he was difficult to recognize. He'd once worn glasses and robes that hadn't fit him. His hair had been messy and unkempt. And his demeanor had been meek. And beyond that, he'd only had one arm. He no longer wore glasses. And while the sleeves of his dual robes were still long enough to hide his hands, they fit appropriately. And perhaps the most curious of all. He'd grown taller. He was still short, standing at only 5'5". But those three inches made quite a difference.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Kazuhiko Satoshi}

But along with these changes, he'd become more capable. His endurance throughout the Los Noches Survival Game had instilled in him a confidence that matched his naivete. The curious release melded to his right shoulder was a permanent reminder of his growth. The overly large and blunted blade had become a golden arm, a prosthetic. And while he'd strangely lost the ability to heal others, he was constantly giving off positive energy to those around him. Just being around Kazuhiko made a bad day a little bit brighter. A hoarse throat is a little bit smoother.

Small comforts. Ones that he didn't think would be of much benefit to the citizens of Rukongai who were suddenly running past him and screaming! They were hard to understand. Kazuhiko had not taken the time to brush up on his panicked shouting! Three citizens rushed past him. Grown men. Kazuhiko stepped out of the way of the first one, and spun to avoid the second, nearly losing his balance and falling!

As the third came by, his left hand shot out and took him by the wrist! Rebalancing himself, but also halting the man's retreat. He offered him a soft, comforting smile before speaking. "Hey! What's all the screaming about? I'm a Shinigami, I can help." All of the bedside manner in the world wasn't going to stop the man's panic, however! He let out another scream!

"H-H-HOLLOW!!!!" His right arm flailed, pointing in the direction he'd just run from. In the direction of Caballero. Kazuhiko blinked, letting the man's hand slip free of his own and enabling him to run off once again. "Hollow?" Hey! His 'Panicked Screaming' was getting better. He understood that one! Point for Kazu!

"Yosh!" He punched his golden fist into the palm of his other, human, hand! Sorry Yonbontai, it looked like getting back to the barracks to do paperwork would have to wait! Kazuhiko took off running in the direction of the fleeing citizens. It wouldn't be long before the naive shinigami was on the scene!

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats}Stats: Before Type|After Type

Strength: 100
Speed: 200
Riatsu Strength: 25
Spiritual Pressure: 400/600
Instinct: 300
Senses: 25
Energy Sense: 50
Light Aura: 100
Dark Aura: 0
Healing Expertise: 0

Skills 15/15
Abilities
Strength of Will: 1
Lack of Fear: 1
Battle Analysis: 2
Martial Arts: Boxing: 2
Pain Tolerence: 1
Bleeding Tolerence: 1
Damage Recovery: 2
Charisma/Leadership: 2
Hoho: 2

Cinematic Skills:
Knowledge: Medicine
Knowledge: Survival

[Shawn Rabuburēdo]

Shawn was taking his normal stroll through the Rukongai, today it was the 33rd district. He took his time as he walked, giving everyone who he passed by a glance to see if they were one of his siblings. Unfortunately he still hasn't found them and with the opening of a Kumon gate that would almost insure he wouldn't find them for the rest of the day. It wasn't difficult for someone with his level of senses to spot the gate in the sky. In fact, unlike everyone else the Captain of Squad 13 did indeed notice the small figure of Caballero falling to the ground.



Letting out a sigh Shawn would whisper under his breath, "Please don't this be more trouble." At this point he'd start heading over to the little Adjuchas, and little it was. This Hollow couldn't have been much taller than three feet. The strangness didn't end there, for the sign it held up nearly had Shawn scratching his head. So, he figured it should be his duty to step forward and greet this new arrival. "Uh, h-hello, my name is Shawn. I know the people you're looking for, but why are y-you looking for them."



Speaking to people for the first time was not easy for Shawn, he is more prone to being alone than out with groups. As the Captain of a squad now, he has to start pushing himself to be a bit more outgoing. Thankfully this doesn't actually impede his ability to lead, but it does give off to others a first impression that doesn't necessarily feel Captain like. In fact, it wasn't uncommon for people to mistake him for just another member of squad 13, not it's Captain. This does have a lot to do with the fact he only wears the Captains Shihakusho when he knows he most present himself as a Captain. At this moment though, he only had on a stock standard Shihakusho, but he does have his Captains badge in his pocket on the inside.



Shawn would wait to hear what Caballero had to say, but just in case he did summon a Hell Butterfly to deliver a message to both Celes and Kimiko (Of Squad 11). Giving a quick look around he spotted a closed off alley, figuring it'd be best not to have this obvious Hollow stand in the open in broad daylight he motioned towards that area. "It might be best if we chatted there, Hollows don't tend to give people good feelings in this area. Though I give my word, if you don't intend on harming anyone I won't purify you."

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats & Skills}Strength - 100 Points (-75%=25)



Speed - 200 Points(-75%=50)



Spiritual Pressure - 300 Points (Triple=900)



Reiatsu Strength - 400 Points (Triple=1200)



Instinct - 200 Points(-75%=50)



Senses - 200 Points(+75%=350)



Energy Sensory - 0 Points(-75%=0)



Healing Expertise - 0 Points



Light Aura - 100 Points



Dark Aura - 0 Points





(Type: SSv1)



Rank 2 (Vice Captain) Release duration increases by 75% (Shikai & Bankai: 17)

------


Calm Mind: 3



Learning: 1



Strength of Will: 2



Battle Focus: 3



Martial Arts- Kyusho Jitsu: 2



Battle Analysis: 2



Mental Incantation: 1



Weapon- Jian Sword: 2

[Deleted]

From what they'd seen on their fall, Soul Society really was huge! Caballero kiiinda had been counting on dropping right next to wherever the Gotei 13 lived, but the lack of people clad in black and with a sword at their side made them think this might have not been the case. Well, that was what their sign was for. Not only was a way of making sure people knew they were a friend, but surely someone would orient them, give them some sort of indications of where they were to go next, right? Yes, a flawless, completely foolproof plan, worthy of the best strategist in Hueco Mundo... if not for the fact that most of the people they approached were completely and utterly terrified of them.

The loop went like this. With their sign held above their heads via class 8 Tendón, Caballero skittered toward some of the Plus that had been frozen by fear, stopped at respectful distance of about four or five feet, and then jumped up and down, as if trying to bring attention to the sign. Then, the people snapped from that state and scurried off into their homes or ducked into the nearest alley. Those who didn't run away... well, none of them said anything, making Caballero give up after a little while, since they had learned not to be rude. One or two of them fainted or outright fainted, bringing great concern to the little one.

After quite a few iterations, the tiny bean tilted their head in confusion, never quite lowering their sign just in case someone would see they were friendly and come talk to them. Sure, they were a Hollow, and they knew that, but usually Plus did not respond that badly. They had saved quite a number of them from their kind, and after the initial shock wore off, they had understood they were not a bad guy! Hell, Caballero had even sent some of them to Soul Society themselves with their Purification Blade. Perhaps they might be able to run into some of them. They knew Clara and her family would be happy to help point them in the right direction, but where might they be? Not good, not good, they were stuck searching for people. But if there was something Caballero was, it was stubborn. They'd comb Soul Society if they had to... although they did not want to scare the Pluses living there.

However, it seemed luck would be on their side once again! Caballero couldn't sense any energy, so it took them quite a while to figure out that there were a couple of Shinigami actually heading their way. They only really became aware once they were within eyesight. The first they spotted would actually be Shawn, since he was the one that was close by, and he would get even closer to try to say hi.

The moment they laid non-existent eyes on Shawn, Caballero could not really tell whether there was a lot of difference between their power. If anything, they seemed even stronger than he was. Of course, the little guy was completely unaware of Shawn's true nature as a Soul Specialist, which hid a fearsome power far more potent than their own. Regardless, Caballero wouldn't battle a Shinigami, not unless it was a sparring match. As such, they were very receptive to Shawn's initial approach. Not only was their aura overwhelmingly positive, the hallmark of a being incapable of cold-blooded deception, but Caballero was actually quite the friendly Hollow to boot. An anomaly in every sense of the word.

"Uh, h-hello, my name is Shawn. I know the people you're looking for, but why are y-you looking for them."

Yes! They'd found someone! Truly, their plan had been flawless indeed. One shouldn't get discouraged so easily, no sir. Strength of will always prevailed! Excited at the prospect of seeing Celes, Kimiko and Akira again, Caballero jumped up and down for a moment before remembering they were in the presence of a Shinigami. Thus, due respect and decorum was needed. Caballero somehow pulled another sheet of paper from within the black Reiatsu that formed their body--again, how that worked, only the Soul King knew. With a black marker and Tendón, the little Hollow laid the sheet on the ground and scribbled on it with their blinding 400 speed.

Hopefully, that would be enough to convey their point. Of course, it was far more complex than that. What was Caballero's origin? Why were they a Hollow, but so close to the Shinigami? Why did they feel such hatred toward their kin, almost irrational? Why had they wanted to be a Shinigami in the first place? In any case, Caballero now had two signs, although with Tendón it was easy to carry them both.

"It might be best if we chatted there, Hollows don't tend to give people good feelings in this area. Though I give my word, if you don't intend on harming anyone I won't purify you."

Hollows?! Where?! Caballero quickly turned to the Kumon gate still up in the sky, trying their best to find any of their brethren. Had any of them followed Caballero into Rukongai? If so, it was their responsibility to...! Oh, of course. They meant Caballero themselves. Depression set in momentarily as they were reminded that many people saw them as a dangerous monster. Well, they were not! Thus, the little bean quickly nodded after a not-so-graceful recovery from that cruel bastard named 'reality'. Still, they did want to make one point clear, so it was best to scribble it now.

Good thing, too, because someone else was coming! Another Shinigami, one that also seemed to be at about the same level as Caballero, although this one was running and not walking. Caballero turned to Shawn, tilting their head as if waiting, but then decided it would be rude not to greet the newcomer. Ailene had taught them reading, writing, and some manners, after all. Thus, Caballero would raise the first two signs to Kazuhiko, so that he would know they were looking for the Gotei 13 location so they could see Celes and Kimiko. They had come both to visit, and for answers. Also, just in case, they also showed him the last sign, stating that they had never eaten a single human. Indeed, Caballero had only ever consumed other Hollows since birth. Of course, both Shawn and Kazuhiko may have some doubts about those statements, but Caballero's aura concealed absolutely no malice or ill-intent. It was as pure as they were dumb when outside of battle.

Two new friends that might take them to the Gotei 13! This really was their lucky day!

[Satoshi Kazuhiko]

Kazuhiko's sandals beat roughly against the earth as he surged through the Rukongai. He was careful not to bump into any of those fleeing in the opposite direction. It wouldn't do to injure anyone on his way to saving them. Especially given that now he lacked the ability to heal them up. Weaving through the oncoming traffic slowed him enough so that another shinigami, Shawn; was the first one on the scene! But just beyond that individual was in fact, a hollow.

His body had been prepared for battle and his adrenaline had already been pumping. "Satoshi Kazuhiko, Third Seat of the Yonbontai is here to help!" He declared as he charged towards the conflict. But surprisingly, it seemed like a battle wasn't about to occur. He was expecting to see fists flying or... Even swords were drawn. But as he drew closer, that never became a reality. Neither one of the potential combatants drew weapons nor did they take any actions that caused their reishi to flare. Was there... No fight? Just a hell butterfly fluttering away.

The strange hollow wasn't fully unarmed, however. He was brandishing signs. "Huh?" He had to squint to read them as he approached. He finally came to a halt beside the other Shinigami. He didn't recognize them. But introductions would have to wait. "Kimiko? Celes?" He knew the names. Of course, he did. They'd both been a part of the party that had come to Hueco Mundo to rescue him. However, he hadn't the slightest bit of information as to where they were.

"Is this... Actually going to be resolved peacefully?" He asked both the other Shinigami and the sign-wielding hollow. The thought made his heart light. He'd tried to solve so many conflicts peacefully since his abduction. Almost every single one of them had become a death match instead. He looked towards the sky as if to offer a prayer of thanks. The Kumon Gate still lingered. "Is there any way to um... Close that thing before we talk?"

[Celes Castellanos]

The Rukongai had swiftly become a hotspot for the Tenth Division. Both on and off duty, the officers of the Tenth would find themselves in the districts for a variety of reasons. From the analysis of strategic liabilities and dealing with Hollow attacks to more casual activities such as training at Nijūkan and enjoying a variety of foods and other leisure activities. Needless to say, its Captain was no different. Since the destruction of the Tenth Divison's Barracks, Celes spent more time in the Rukongai to take her mind off the repeated tragedies that seemed to plague Soul Society.

Deep in the lush forests of the 57th District, the roar of a cascading torrent filled the air. This large waterfall surged from a nearby cliffside and into a nearby lake which Celes enjoyed frequenting. Most would enjoy the ambiance or take a dip into the cool refreshing waters, but Celes' reasons were a little different. Wearing her white sarashi around her bosom, thighs amd arms along with a fundoshi to provide some much-needed modesty, Celes was training.

The Captain had taken a widened stance and extended her hands out in front of her as the water beat down on her body. Each time she felt her form crumble, she'd shift her balance again to even out. It was a test of endurance as the waterfall practically battered her body violently. None of this mattered to the Shinigami, though. She closed her eyes and simply focused on her breathing to center herself as the high-pressure environment hardened her skin and tested her stamina.

After enduring the crushing pressure of the waterfall for roughly an hour, Celes opened her eyes and found herself visited by a most peculiar visitor. Just before the raging waterfall, flapping idly, was a Jigokuchō. These little black butterflies were the messengers of Soul Society. Needless to say, Celes was surprised to see one before her now. "Perhaps the old man is organizing another meeting given the recent incursion by Las Noches...", she theorized. Oh well. Celes extended her hand outward and allowed the Jigokuchō to rest on her.

As it relayed the message, Celes hummed softly. "It's from Shawn? ...Huh. What could it be?" Turns out that there was a Hollow of interest in the Rukongai. Okay? "Why is my presence needed? He should've just asked one of m-" Her train of thought was immediately interrupted as the message revealed the description of the Hollow. Short stubby limbs, rags that covered their body, and a horned white mask. Needless to say, the Captain's eyes widened. "What the hell are they doing-...", Celes questioned as her concentration shattered and her form crumbled. It didn't take long for Celes to be pounded by the raging downpour and swept into the lake! "AAaaaaa!!! Damn it!"

---

Once the shock had worn off, Celes was on dry land with a towel as she dried herself off. She sighed, practically squeezing the water out of her lime-colored hair. Her voice rang with an annoyed tone as she muttered to herself, "I don't know what went through little mask of theirs, but I gotta get there as soon as possible. Soul King knows that I'm in deep shit if this becomes widely known..." With that, Celes idly tossed the towel that she used to dry her body as well as undoing the wrappings that were now soaked and replacing them with dry cloth.

Unfolding her clothes, which neatly rested in a pile, with some level of urgency, Celes donned her shihakuso and Captain's haori. Sliding a brown leather harness around her chest, the Captain slid her Zanpakutō into the scabbard. Once it rested within its sheath, Celes lowered herself into a squat before cracking the ground beneath her. With a powerful jump, she leapt into the air unto the rocks as she scaled up the cliffside. Once she found herself at the crest of the waterfall, Celes had a look around to orient herself.

The individual districts of the Rukongai got larger and larger as one got closer to its edge and this little visit was taking place in the outer districts of the Rukongai. It could easily take several hours, if not a day, worth of travel for any ordinary Shinigami. Thankfully, Celes was no ordinary Shinigami. Celes took a deep breath and leapt from her vantage point. As she soared through the air, rocketing through the ground, she spotted a nearby house. Her instincts took over as she slid on the curved rooftops, breaking her fall. Leaping to the ground, she swiftly broke into a sprint as she made her way to the outer districts to answer Shawn's summons.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Celes' Stats n' Skills}
Type: Genius

Strength- 500 [1500]
Speed - 400 [1200]
Spiritual Pressure - [400]
Reiatsu Strength - 150 [100]
Light Aura- 100
Dark Aura - 0
Instinct - [300]
Senses - [150]
Energy Sensory - 100 [66]
Healing Expertise - [0]

Total SP: [2000]

Pain Tolerance: 4
Bu Gei - Blessed Breath Contemplation: 3
Martial Arts - Hakuda: 3
Battle Analysis: 2
Strength of Will: 3
Weapons - Longsword & Shield: 3

[Nakajima Kimiko]

For much of its lifespan, the school of swordsmanship formally referred to as Nijūkan by the populace of the Soul Society was known to be amongst the more popular locations to be found within Rukongai. From the official inception of its western branch by the Captain of the Eleventh Division of the Gotei 13, Nakajima Kimiko, down to the foundation of its three other cardinal counterparts, it has always been populated with a notable amount of students. These students, both young and old, came from every corner of the heavenly realm. Some were civilians of the drifting spirit town who wished to better their skills in combat in order to better protect their homes, while others were more casual practitioners - many of which were children - who simply believed that the mastery of the sword was a very attractive activity, especially here in this corner of the afterlife. Then, there were the countless Shinigami officers who visited the school as a mean to better their skills in Zanjutsu.

Although the number of officers had always been somewhat inferior to the number of civilians visiting the school - in part due to the distance between the schools and the holy city of Seireitei, and in another part due to the plain fact that there were simply less Shinigami within the Soul Society than Pluses - it was often said by the teachers of each school that the three demographics mentioned above had always been equal to an extent. This was not true, of course, whether it was from a visual or a purely-statistical view. However, such a thing was said nonetheless. Some would believe this to be a dishonest lie, and in truth, it was. Even so, it continued being declared by the people of the school, if only to encourage a sense of balance, a quality that Kimiko had found herself greatly appreciating as she grew further invested in her role as both the master of the school and a Captain within the Gotei 13. Unfortunately, a recent event would make sure to break this balance altogether.

A few months ago, the holy city was directly attacked by a group of assailants. No one knew where they came from or how they came to be, but one thing became clear as the attack went on: they left a horrible mess in their wake. Like the many invasions from before, it did not take long for the point of impact of this group to turn into yet another battlefield. Many Shinigami officers were slaughtered, with what remained of their corpses strung all about Seireitei, and many of the city's infrastructure was reduced to nothingness. Even the Gotei 13's main headquarters, the underground edifice which lodged the members of the Central 46, was affected by this. It was needless to say that it had been quite the terrible battle. For once, it was far away from the people of Rukongai, as they were practically spared from the chaos. Despite this, it was nevertheless a terrible battle that left yet another scar onto the hide of the Shinigami, for better or for worse. 

In the end, the assailants were chased away from the holy city by the remaining forces of the Shinigami once their leader, a certain Rizer, was confronted by the Captain Commander and consequently turned into a pile of ash. They proved to be a disorganized, yet satisfied bunch who, upon losing their responsibilities as members of the group, had supposedly decided that their time within the Soul Society had come to a close. What they left behind was a broken Seireitei, a confused and discouraged Gotei 13, and the barracks of the Tenth Division completely and utterly destroyed. As Captain of the Eleventh Division, Kimiko found herself quite hurt by the state of her sister squad's home. In so doing, she decided it best for the members of the Tenth Division to remain within Nijūkan and the four 40th districts of Rukongai for the time being. It was a tough decision to make, especially given that the Tenth was no small squad in the least. Such was made apparent when the number of Shinigami attending Kimiko's classes had downright tripled. However, she still believed it to be the right call. It was the least she could do for them.

Today was to be like any other idea since that incident. Kimiko, who had just finished completing her dreadful paperwork alongside her assistant Gideon, had left the barracks of the Eleventh early to head on over to Nijūkan West, which was where most of the people of the Tenth had found themselves heading to alongside Nijūkan South. By the time she had reached the dojo, it was rather early in the afternoon, with the sun shining brightly above. Given the circumstances she has been dealing with lately, it was safe to say that the Captain enjoyed the nicer weather of the season, especially given that something terrible always somehow followed the wake of the clouds lately. Lucien's presence within the Living World, the recon operation of the officers of the Vandenreich, the little Quincy girl that they brought along with them, Bushida's grave injury... All of those events were marked by the clouds, and the first three had been equally bothersome for Kimiko to handle. They were not the things that she could simply cut or slice away. No, she had to resolve them through talking, which was not a skill that she thought she had really mastered.

The Captain would stay at the school for a time, as per the usual. She would grant a number of lessons to those who were present, each of which were as energetic as the last. Then, after a time, they would take a break. It was during this break that the swordswoman found herself heading to town, more specifically a particular establishment that had found herself enjoying quite a fair bit since it was officially founded: a noodle shop which had settled near the stairs that led upward towards the school. Its name? Teriyaki Tenki. Shining Grill Heaven. It did not seem like much at a glance, but there was no other place in the 40th western district from which Kimiko enjoyed eating from. The bowls there were prepare here were quite simply delightful, as proven by how much she was currently enjoying the one that she was eating from right this second. "Wow... This is just amazing, Duncan. You really can't miss," the Captain would praise wholeheartedly as she enjoyed her food from one of the stools that were available.

The chef, who found himself behind the counter, was surprisingly young. In fact, he was quite clearly a child, or at least a child in appearance. No older than perhaps nine or ten years old in appearance, he was a boy with bright blonde hair and brown eyes who was almost downright half as small as Kimiko. At a glance, it would've been easy to mistake him as the shop owner's son or perhaps his nephew, but judging by the way he handled the ingredients with expert hands as he prepared them for future bowls and the cooking uniform that he was wearing, he clearly was the one actually doing the cooking here. "Of course, Master Nakajima, of course! If I ever missed, this place wouldn't work at all!" The boy would quickly reply with a dismissive gesture of the hand, yet a proud smile on his face, which made it clear that he enjoyed the praise in spite of the professional image he was trying to make for himself. "My dad used to tell me that cooking was our family's destiny, so I needed to cook everyday! Then, he became an oil seller. Bleh. It was the same thing with my mom too! She always told me that if I ever messed up, I'd be grounded forever and I'd be the shame of my family! Then, she became a spice seller. Bleh."

"Y-Yeah, I know, Duncan. I think that's the... hundredth time you told me about them," the officer would remind with a comical drop of sweat shortly after taking a small break from eating, if only to uphold the conversation. This reaction from her would cause the boy to pout.

"Well, I'll say it until everyone remembers that they are just sellers and don't cook anything like me! Bleh!" He childishly declared as he finished preparing another bowl, doing so with the kind of energy that could only really be expected from someone as physically young as he. The sight was enough for Kimiko to simply chuckle in disbelief and shake his head before taking a few more bites from the food in her bowl. Personally, she did not believe that there was anything wrong with the occupations Duncan's parents had decided to go for; after all, not everyone was actually built for cooking. With that said, she did not believe that she knew enough about what happened in the child's life to really comment on the matter all that much. As such, she preferred to simply focus on the food he had prepared for her, and that was that. At the very least, she didn't have to worry about saying something wrong or assuming things in a bad way in that regard.

The Shinigami would continue to enjoy her bowl before, eventually, something small would find itself flying past the bottom space which had been left uncovered by the shop's front curtains. Quietly, it would flap its wings before slowly raising itself up to direct itself towards Kimiko. As it would head there, Duncan would look over his shoulder towards the Captain, most probably to ask her if she had any form of constructive criticism for the bowl. That would be when he would notice the small flying creature. "Ah... A butterfly?" He would mutter confusingly for a moment, blinking, almost as he was taken by surprise and wonder by the insect that had suddenly appeared in his establishment. His awe was not something that was very common to witness, which caused the Shinigami sitting in front of him to raise a brow before turning her head towards the creature. Upon seeing it, she would blink in surprise and completely lose the attention that she had granted towards her food bowl.

As a member of the Gotei 13, the officer knew what this insect was supposed to be. It was a Hell Butterfly, a carrier of messages to be delivered to Shinigami all across the realms. Kimiko has interacted with them a few times before, namely to be informed of certain matters that she needed to attend to as rapidly as possible. Quite frankly, she always preferred to interact with other methods of communication, namely because she thought that they were rather slow in comparison to something like a Soul Pager. That, and she was still not quite sure that she enjoyed having to receive verbal messages from telepathic insects. In any case, upon seeing the insect, she would sigh and straighten herself on the stool. "It's for me. Someone's sending me a message," she told Duncan then, which naturally visibly confused the child even further. Noticing this, the swordswoman would smile a bit before she would come up with a better explanation, trying her best to not appear too awkward before him as she did so. "It's basically magic. Honestly, I'm happy you can see them! It means that you have potential as a student of Nijūkan, if you ever wanna attend my classes."

The boy appeared to be pleasantly surprised by this, enough so that he displayed a rather bright and childish smile as he heard Kimiko's explanation. However, as happy as she was for him, the Shinigami would instead go on to focus on the butterfly. As much as she was glad to see that Duncan had the potential to be able to use spiritual energy, she unfortunately had something that was most likely more important for her to take care of for the time being. Initially, however, that did not quite seem to be the case. Apparently, Shawn - someone that Kimiko has met a few times before, both as a comrade within the Eleventh Division and as the newly-established Captain of the Thirteenth Division - had stumbled upon a particular Hollow within Rukongai, more specifically the 33rd northern district. The first thought to came to Kimiko's mind was  Why can't you slay them yourself? You're right in front of them, which was a rather understandable opinion. As rude as it may have been in the moment, Shawn was a powerful Shinigami in his... own damned magical ways, and so the swordswoman doubted he could not take care of one single Hollow.

It was only once he described the Hollow that Kimiko suddenly felt her heart sink a thousand miles. With widened eyes, the Captain would freeze in front of Duncan, causing the boy to stare at her with an astonished look before he then witnessed her suddenly grab her bowl and eat whatever remained in it at a speed that could only considered downright superhuman. The boy could only watch it all unfold with his mouth wide agape in shock. Then, once she was done, the officer calmly lowered the bowl down onto the counter before letting out a pleased sigh. "I'm sorry, Duncan. I know this is weird, but I really need to go," she would tell the child before putting several Ryo coins on the counter by the side of the bowl. Then, she raised herself from the stool and gave the boy a smile before she walked towards the shop's front curtains and opened them before looking over her shoulder. "I'll eat slower next time, alright? I'll see you later." 

The boy, blinking out of his shocked stupor, would then blink several times over with a quick shake of the head before he would then quickly go around the counter so as to head outside and see what was wrong. "Master Nakajima, please, wait! What's wrong? Master... Nakajima?" He had begun before, eventually, he stopped outside of the shop and simply stood in front of its front curtains.

The superior officer was gone. She had disappeared from sight, leaving the boy alone with his thoughts as she found herself rushing as quickly as possible towards the 33rd northern district.

---

Kimiko's teeth were clenched hard against one another as she blitzed from rooftop to rooftop across the northwestern side of Rukongai. She would move with the aid of multiple Shunpo jumps, appearing and disappearing with breakneck speed as she tried to reach her destination as fast as possible. As she did so, her thoughts were rushing rapidly within her head, generating thought after thought, prediction after prediction, and presumption after presumption as she tried to rationalize why the hell this was happening. "Damn it, Kishi, you idiot! What the hell is wrong with you?!" Her voice would cry out as she passed the 39th, then the 38tth and the 37th what might as well have been a literal instant. She had gone on so quickly that, to those who found themselves beneath Kimiko as she moved, they would have only heard a mere fragment of her words that might as well have been without any meaning whatsoever.

The Captain was furious, and for once, she wasn't furious at herself. Kishi - for that was the name Kimiko had granted to the Hollow upon their meeting in the Living World a time ago - was a creature that she had found herself befriending while they were confronting a particular monster that roamed the city of Kyoto. For some odd reason, they did not actually seem to believe that they were a Hollow, as they constantly attempted to convey that they wanted to be like her, or rather, like a Shinigami. They wanted to slay their brethren and save Humans. More importantly, it was also the creature fitted Shawn's description to a tee. Kimiko had come to understand that this obsession of being what they were not was not going to be corrected within Kishi's mind any time soon, but she had never ever thought that they would be so foolish as to extend their activities within the Soul Society. Moreover, she had never thought that it would go as far as to literally declare their friendship to both she and Celes in front of everyone around here!

Damn it all! Why the hell does she, of all people, have to deal with such problematic children?! First, Ruhe, and now Kishi! Unbelievable! Why the hell was this happening all at once?! If Kishi is judged as being a malevolent spirit instead of what she has concluded they were in reality, there is nothing - absolutely nothing! - that could prevent the Gotei 13 from suddenly deciding to arrest her and Celes, and then begin investigating them thoroughly! They could find out about Ruhe this way, about Ailene, or worse, about the fact that they are Vizards! If that happens... If that happens...! ... No! No, she needs to stay focused! If she shows stress before Shawn, things are just going to get so much worse! She needs to stay calm... staaaay caaaalm... That's right... Stay calm. Alright. She'll find a solution. She'll find a way to bring Kishi back to the Living World if she can, and she'll find a way to justify this... "friendship" they apparently were advertising.

36th. 35th. 34th... 33rd. Finally, Kimiko had reached her destination. With a huff, Kimiko jumped a few more times before, eventually, she would come to a stop onto one of the district's buildings. The moment she arrived, she would very rapidly realize that something was wrong. Several civilians were seemingly running away from the scene or heading into their homes to hide, and for some reason, there appeared to be some sort of portal in the sky. Noticing this, she looked up with a frown, trying to understand what that portal was about before she eventually was able to understand that that was most likely from where Kishi came from. Once she came to that conclusion, she would look down back towards the streets before disappearing with another Shunpo jump as she headed upward in the air. Her scarlet eyes watched from above, scanning the district before she eventually was able to notice what appeared to be two tuffs of yellow in the distance alongside a figure with a white mask. There they were.

Another Shunpo jump would then be executed in mid-air with the help of Advanced Air Ground, causing her to disappear again. Then, suddenly, she would appear onto the nearest rooftop above the three figures she had sported earlier. For a moment, she would appear angry, very clearly carrying the frustration that she had for the little Hollow during the entirety of her trek. However, upon seeing him and his innocent sign, she would find herself simply staring at them before letting out a heavy sigh. "Damn it... I can't stay mad at you," she would mutter almost embarrassingly as she brushed the back of her head, then jumped off the rooftop to land on the ground below with a light thud. "Alright, Shawn, I'm here. Did anyone get hurt, and did anything else get out of that gate?" She asked quickly before she then turned her head towards Kazuhiko with a blink. "Oh, hey. It's been a while."

Perhaps her tone was a bit too casual... but quite frankly, there really was no reason for anyone to be in a panic for the time being. Kishi was not dangerous, and she was very aware of that. There was no reason to see them as a threat. Regardless, she needed to keep a minimum amount of professionalism, something which she believed she was doing in this moment to the absolute best of her ability. In so doing. eventually, she would turn towards the little Hollow before pointing towards the portal above. "Kishi, can you close that gate? Hollows might decide to come out of there and attack the people here, and I know you don't want that to happen." she asked, trying to see if the creature knew how to do that. Kishi themselves wasn't entirely bad, but that gate was definitely going to be a problem if it stayed that way, and the last thing Kimiko wanted right now was for the death of innocent civilians to be on Kishi's conscience.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats & Skills}

Statistics

Physical	Spiritual		Sensory	Miscellaneous
Strength: 158 (210-52) Speed: 700 (400+300)	Reiatsu Strength: 30 (40-10) Spiritual Pressure: 700 (400+300)		Instincts: 400 Senses: 300 Energy Sensory: 50	Light Aura: 50 Dark Aura: 50 Healing Expertise: 0

Skills

Mental	Battle		Body	Utility
Strength of Will: 3              Analyzing: 2	Iaijutsu: 4 Martial Art - Hohō: 3 Battle Analysis: 3 Battle Focus: 1		N/A	N/A

[Shawn Rabuburēdo]

It seems this little Hollow was here to look around and find answers, the question then becomes, answers to what. Following that sign it begins scribbling on a new one before holding it up for Shawn, this one said he never has and never will eat Humans. That's a bit comforting, but not every Shinigami follows this specific Captains way of thinking when it comes to other races. "Ok, I'll trust you on this, though I won't hesitate if you begin breaking that word. As far as Kimiko and Celes are concerned, I have sent for them, so they should be here sometime soon."



It was about this time the a second person showed up as Shawn was talking, shouting his name, position, and being here to help. Those shouts, however, died down rather quickly when Satoshi noticed the signs the little Hollow held up. This seemed to momentarily stun them, only letting out a "Huh?" as he slowly approached Shawn and Caballero. He read the two names out loud, sounding confused. That made sense though, after all a Hollow was asking for two Captains by name, even going as far to call them friends.



"Is this... Actually going to be resolved peacefully?" Shawn would give a nod to Satoshi's question, which they would immediately follow up with, "Is there any way to um... Close that thing before we talk?" The Captain noticed it hasn't closed yet, but didn't bring anything up believing it would close on it's own shortly. He has seen one before after all, opened by that mysterious Arrancar who was utterly confused about the Seikei Seikei surrounding the Seireitei. "Hmmm, Satoshi here may be right, it'd be best if that closed before we have a conversation."



This would be the moment Kimiko the Captain of Squad 11 showed up, most likely thanks to the use of Shunpo. She would ask a quick question in which Shawn would shake his head to for both aspects of the question. She also seemed to recognize Satoshi, speaking in a calm tone while she speaks to him. That's when the Squad 11 Captain turns to Caballero, "Kishi, can you close that gate? Hollows might decide to come out of there and attack the people here, and I know you don't want that to happen." Kishi? So she does know who this Hollow is, and considering her way of speech doesn't consider them a threat. So Shawn looks at the small group and speaks, "Last time I encountered a Kumon gate it closed itself after it's creator left it alone for long enough. Though by the looks o-of it, each one cl-closes at it's own pace. If their i-is anything you can do to close it, that wo-would help."

[Deleted]

Caballero was slightly surprised to hear that Satoshi Kazuhiko was the Third Seat of the Yonbantai. Third Seat, as in, only two steps below a Captain, even if those steps were massive. Was it because the strange, yet friendly creature doubted the Shinigami's abilities? No, far from it. It was that Caballero hadn't compared his power to that of another Shinigami in quite some time. If Kazuhiko held that position and he was about as strong as Caballero--that was the general feeling that the rapidly developing Hollow got--, then how strong had Caballero truly become? Food for thought and for another time; after all, they were not in the Soul Society to fight anyone. As introductions were in order, and Kazuhiko didn't seem all too formal, Caballero amicably waved their stubby little arm, trying to convey as much goodwill as possible throughout his gestures. Not that they hadn't always done that, but Ailene's lessons had made them a bit more knowledgeable about the world, and they knew it was dangerous for a Hollow to be in the Rukongai.

But of course, these lessons had yet to fully sink in. As Kazuhiko asked if this was going to be resolved peacefully, Caballero was slightly confused as to what he meant, since there had yet to be any battle that day. After all, they meant no harm! They hadn't fully stopped to think how this friendly approach of theirs was nothing short of an invasion, and at a time where invasions were the last rage, it seemed. Caballero was blissfully unaware of the destruction caused by Rizer in the name of Las Noches, right before the Captain Commander turned him into crispy toasty crispy toast with Ryujin Jakka. That meant that their sole presence there was like adding more salt and lemon to an already open wound that had only begun to heal. Regardless, Caballero did their best to assure everyone around them that there would not be any fighting that day. Not that they planned on it, of course... but life had its ways.

With that said and done, the next item of concern for the Shinigami was the fact that Caballero's Kumon gate was still open in the sky. As Kazuhiko drew attention to it, the tiny Hollow tilted their head to the side, trying to think of any instance where they had closed the gate. So far they had never been to concerned with the 'how', as the gate seemed to close on its own after a while, but it was still a way for Hollows to go in. Perhaps, then, it would be best to try and do something about it. The Hollow knight bobbed its oversized, helmet-like mask up and down, nodding in agreement.

Perhaps because no fighting was happening, some of the people that had cowered into hiding or who had secluded themselves at home to go unnoticed by the 'monster' that had just 'invaded' the Soul Society slowly began to return. Naturally, they were curious about what was going on. So far, they saw Soul Reapers, standing right next to a Hollow that was not attacking, but trying to communicate. Some of them may have had encounters with Caballero's kin, because the look of disbelief in their faces was all but palpable. Thus, more people were trickling into the scene as the tiny knight

but before they could do anything about the gate, another newcomer would arrive into the scene.

Of course, the Hollow's excitement after seeing the Captain that had just appeared in their midst was far from subdued. Kimiko's arrival threw Caballero into an hyperactive loop of happiness, with the Hollow freezing first upon seeing her, then excitedly jumping up and down, then drawing circles around her not unlike a dog would do, as if trying to catch her attention. Needless to say, a Hollow being so happy to see a Captain of the Gotei 13 was not something one saw everyday, but Caballero was not exactly your ordinary Hollow to begin with. With their enthusiasm, they failed to notice the faint traces of anger in her face. That, too, was their fault, as their well-intentioned means of communication could easily end up backfiring, putting both her and Celes in big trouble.

Before they had time for any happy reunions, Kimiko also expressed her concern about the Kumon gate, asking Caballero if they could close it. Shawn, belonging to the Thirteenth Squadron, seemed to be well aware of the nature of the technique, since he explained that usually, this type of pathway to another world closed on its own. Of course, this method of travel was not as swift, precise and convenient as Descorrer, but that technique was beyond the means of a mere Adjuchas like Caballero.

Since there was a consensus and Caballero did not want to make a wrong first impression to other officers of the Thirteen Court Guard Squadrons, the tiny Hollow moved right below where their Kumon gate had spawned in the skies of Soul Society, above the low buildings of that district in Rukongai. The little critter stopped once they were under it, then looked up at the broken-glass-like tear they had left. Again, they folded their tiny arms and tilted their head, lost in thought. What could they do to close it? Had they ever tried to actively close a Kumon gate before? Soon enough, however, the gate began closing on its own. Like Shawn had said, these lasted for a little while, but they ended up vanishing like they had never been there in the first place. For one second, Caballero breathed easy--figuratively, given their lack of lungs--, and was about to return to everyone.

Then something crawled out of that gate, slipping through right before it closed and vanished for good.

Perhaps it was because they lacked the energy sensory abilities to feel when they were being sneaked up on. Perhaps they had just missed it, on their rush to get to Soul Society and find the answers they wanted. Whatever the case, their efforts to ensure no Hollow would spot their trail and cross over to the Rukongai had failed, for a quadrupedal Hollow jumped out of the Kumon gate with an agility not suited for a Stray: an Adjuchas. Caballero dodged with a backstep right before the monster deftly landed on the streets of the Rukongai with a loud crash, causing an immediate panic to ensue among the multiple Plus that had gathered to witness that strange interaction. They may have felt safe with the Shinigami before, but from their perspective, there were now two monsters to deal with, and they were right in the menu.

The Adjuchas turned to some of the slower, more terrified Plus that didn't move, undoubtedly looking for its next snack. Its eyes focused on a small group of three terrified children whose unfortunate wanderings had left them in the wrong place at the wrong time. The quadrupedal beast licked its bare teeth as it somehow stood upright, displaying skill and comfort on both types of movement. Before it could go about its meal, ignoring the Shinigami, the tiny knight got in the way, making the Adjuchas rear its head in evident confusion. The monster had mistaken the Kumon gate for one intended to plunder the Rukongai from those tasty souls, and had been hoping to join the feast. So why was that tiny being standing between it and its meal? And why the hell was its back turned to the Pluses, thus facing the monster itself?

Caballero quickly made a gesture to the Shinigami, intended to mean that they should not intervene. They had only intended to come to Soul Society in peace, but in their haste, they had failed to fully account for the results of their actions. The fact that this Adjuchas had managed to enter Soul Society was on them. The fact that those Pluses were now in danger, even if there were Soul Reapers nearby to help, was also their fault. They would be incredibly ashamed if Kimiko or anyone else had to clean the mess they made for them.

"Out of the way." The enemy Adjuchas growled, issuing one last warning. The little knight did not mind, as they had been chased and hutned down by their brethren before. However! This monster bared its fangs at innocent people. It had come here with the sole intent of feeding on souls that were trying to live in peace. And Caballero, whose non-existent blood boiled at the thought, would never let this stand. The little knight's stubby hand reached for their other arm, and from it, they produced a single black blade from it. They slashed to the side in a display of decorum, then pointed at their foe. Unbeknownst to Caballero, an engraving had also appeared alongside the flat of the blade as they challenged their foe with it, etched in white Reiatsu that was in stark contrast with the jet-black edge. It would be perfectly visible to all the present Shinigami with at least average Senses.

D E S T R U I R    H U E C O S

Destroy Hollows.

The Adjuchas let out a powerful roar, but Caballero didn't waver in the slightest. They fell into their battle stance, refined over the course of their many battles, but then shifted their posture in a way that Kimiko would probably recognize very easily. Blade held as if it was in its scabbard to the side of their body, stubby little legs flexed, horned helmet-like mask facing the foe. Their second hand slowly reached for the hilt of their blade, the tendrils forming from it wrapping themselves around it as if they were part of the same mass of condensed Reiatsu. Caballero's style had been developed from their own experiences, and from the tutelage they had received in the past, but this attack was all too familiar for anyone familiar with its master school.

It was a variation of the most basic move of the Nijū Kanmeki-ryu.

The enemy Hollow quickly lunged forward, hell-bent on blitzing past Caballero and get to the Plus behind them. Then, to its eyes and those of anyone under 250 Speed, Caballero blurred as they too lunged forward at 400 Speed, bringing Filo forth with a single movement. The enemy Adjuchas barely had any time to process what happened between the tiny being's jump and their own perspective shifting, as its head had been cleaved off in a single diagonal strike. Said head rolled up in the air, spraying some blood on the dirt roads of the district, before falling onto the ground with a loud 'thud', long after the tiny knight had landed back on the ground and cleaned their blade by swinging it downwards. Though stained, the engraving was still all too clear to the naked eye.

The Pluses that had just been saved just stared in sheer disbelief at what had happened. Their minds were trying to justify that Caballero had only attacked the Hollow because it had gone after their prey, but even so, their natural curiosity won over, and they simply stared as to observe what they would do next. And what was next, really? Well, it would have been typical for a Hollow to eat their prey after besting it in battle, but Caballero would not do that either. Their hunger had been sated before coming there and pushed down to a barely noticeable itch through their strength of will. Could they have gained power from it? Maybe. But they did not want any of the Pluses to be even more scared than they might have already been.

Instead, Caballero took out their Purification Blade, a toy-like katana that could not cut or harm anyone in any way. What it could do, however, was purify souls. Caballero delivered the last strike to the creature's body with it, which immediately began the same process a Shinigami's Zanpakuto did. The Adjuchas, and all the souls it had collected within itself to fuel its power, erupted from within, cleansed at once. Free from their now-dissolving Reishi flesh and bone, they were sent to their proper place in the soul cycle, although the little Hollow understood little of how all that worked. All Caballero did was lower their head ever so slightly, hoping the lost souls who had nothing to do with the monster would find the peace they had been denied for so long. With the purification complete, Caballero turned to the Shinigami. The Kumon gate had closed and the threat that had come from it had been dealt with. Thus, the little knight was free to return to the real goal of their visit. With a new paper sheet and the same marker they pulled from Soul King knew where, Caballero wrote yet another message intended for all of the Shinigami.

Sorry. This, my fault. Speak?

Of course, they meant that Caballero was good to speak at any time now if they wanted to, but their limited paper sheets and vocabulary were not doing them any favors in that front.




OOC:
Reiatsu: 3450 -150[Class 5 Filo] - 50[Purification Blade Konso] = 3250

SPOILER: Click to show

{Filo}Technique Name: Filo [Edge]

Technique Class: 7-1, maximum class is equal to Caballero's, but they can use it at lower classes at will. Paid up to class 5.

Technique Type: Hollow [Custom]

Technique Cost: 50 +50 per class above 7

Description: This technique is affected by Focalizar. A realization of Caballero's intention to become a Shinigami. Caballero uses part of the Reiatsu that forms their body to create a long, sword-like spiritual weapon (85% of their height, so about 2.5ft as a Hollow, massive as a Gillian, 5.1ft as Vasto Lorde...). Since Caballero's 'body' is nothing but their condensed black Reiatsu given form, Filo uses Reiatsu Strength as its offensive stat when cutting something or clashing against other techniques.Caballero's ability using Filo can be upgraded and refined via their Saber Filo skill. Filo can be split into two separate swords and recombined at will, but nothing else besides those two forms. It can't stretch, it can't change shapes, it can't curve, nothing.

Enhanced effect after Focalizar: the created Filo gains the 50% OS Clash property as if they were a "Focus" technique.

Drawbacks: Filo cannot be reassimilated to refresh Caballero's Reiatsu. Cannot be used without at least one skill point in Saber Filo.

[Satoshi Kazuhiko]

Shawn's nod was all the reassurance that Kazuhiko needed. No blades had been drawn and he couldn't detect any murderous intent. The tiny hollow's movements were as subdued as his own. His lips pursed as he blew out a sigh of relief. His expression then softened into one of appreciative glee. Violence wasn't the only way to resolve problems within Soul Society.

He had just finished that thought when the Captain of Squad 11 arrived above them. His lips twitched in uneasy amusement. He couldn't ignore the irony of it all. Squad 11 was best known for its martial capabilities. Perhaps violence wasn't fully off the table after all. However, Kazuhiko couldn't sense any murderous intent on Captain Kimiko either. Instead, she greeted them informally, not unlike the way she'd been at the Mixer they'd met at.

"Yo." He raised his left hand and gave her a little wave.

It had been a while. And since that time much had changed. When they'd last seen each other Kazuhiko had been a boy. Short and unimposing. But now he looked much more a man grown. Or at least an adolescent. That sort of change in such a short amount of time should have been impossible.

"You two know each other, huh?" The tiny hollow had asked for her. But now it seemed that their relationship was two-sided. Good. Kazuhiko's smile widened. He knew it was possible for hollows and shinigami to be more than rivals on opposite ends of the Soul Cycle. They weren't simply monsters to be slain!

It was at that exact moment that exactly what Shawn and he feared might happen. A creature emerged from the opening that Caballero had left! The streets were still full of pluses! "Shawn! Help me keep everyone safe!"

The order was a reflex. Kazuhiko had already moved to space himself between the four-legged Hollow and the pluses. His eyes slid closed as he slipped into a curious-looking boxing stance. He gave up his sight in order to better feel the world around him. It made him vulnerable to long-range attacks, but at this range it allowed him to sense even the flow of blood in the bodies of those around him. If that beast attempted to move past him, he'd know. And he'd be able to cut them off... He hoped.

The battle was resolved before he could finish planning. The two hollows had turned on one another. Their tiny visitor had drawn a blade and swiftly struck down the much larger beast. Kazuhiko could feel every drop of blood as it spouted from the headless husk of the defeated.

His eyes slowly opened... But his smile did not return. His left hand hovered over his heart and his fingers reflexively grasped at his robes, as if in pain. Such unnecessary loss of life... The act of violence had been swift and impressive. But it had also been brutal. He drew in a deep breath and let it out. For the moment he couldn't find his voice... Instead deferring to the ranking officer, Kimiko, to direct the situation.

[Nakajima Kimiko]

Kimiko's anger and frustration towards Kishi was slowly leaving her bit by bit the more she found herself in the presence of the little Hollow. As much as she wanted to be angry at them, to tell them that they were so unbelievably stupid for practically revealing to everyone that two very high-ranking officers within the Gotei 13 had befriended them, she really just couldn't find the strength to even so much as reprimand them. They were just too innocent, too childish. This painful fact was made ever-so-apparent when, once she appeared and landed on the ground, the bean literally started jumping up and down just like the last time they met one another before rushing up to her and running around her so as to get her attention. "I... Oh, man... Yes, hello, Kishi, I'm here," she would eventually let out, clearly defeated by the Hollow's opinion of her as she gave him some attention proper, almost as though he was some kind of domesticated animal, such as a dog.

Unsurprisingly, the way she spoke to him was enough to catch some of the nearest Pluses off-guard. Ever since the foundation of Nijūkan, Kimiko has been progressively becoming more and more popular across Rukongai, and naturally, her occupation as a Shinigami. Many of the souls who remained in the districts nearest to the 40ths were also aware of the values she preached, mainly equality amongst all who decided to follow the path of the blade. With that said, none of them had once believed that this wish would actually extend towards Hollows, the very creatures who seemingly existed solely to consume everything in their path; after all, she always treated the beasts - enemies of the Soul Society as a whole - with absolute impunity. And yet, here she was being downright friendly with one of the things. At the very least, the Hollow in question seemed to be friendly in general, else it would have been a totally different story altogether.

Noticing the many incredulous and curious stares from the nearby citizens of Rukongai, Kimiko would begin to feel a little embarrassed. While her anger had practically been completely disintegrated by Kishi's friendliness, the urgency of the situation remained. Therefore, after she gave her attention to the little bean, she would turn her head towards Shawn and then Kazuhiko. First, she made sure to ask the former about the citizens as well as the portal in question, and then she greeted the latter. The fact that the aforementioned latter had certainly not gone unnoticed, especially given how much different the blonde once looked back when they initially met, but now was definitely not the time to focus on such things for very long. Fortunately, otherwise, he did not seem to be too baffled about the Captain's relationship with the Hollow. If anything, he appeared to be quite happy about it. "It's a long story," Kimiko would respond to his question with a little sigh as she tried to push the matter away just a little bit further. "I'll explain later once we take care of that gate."

Not long after, the swordswoman would go on to ask Kishi if they could somehow close the portal. Portals were not something that she was totally unfamiliar with; after all, she had begun researching them not long ago. With that said, she was not too familiar with the tunnels the Hollows themselves created. As far as she was aware of them, these things could appear from out of nowhere at any given time, and could be left opened or closed at will by the Hollow that created it. Apparently, however, that was not quite the case as Shawn made sure to precise that it could close on its own. In fact, this was made clearer once Kishi tried to close it after Kimiko told him to, but appeared to not quite know how to do so. Usually, this wasn't the kind of detail that Kimiko would give much attention to... but given where they were located, she had quite the bad feeling about this. "That's... not good," she sighed with a frown as she gazed up at the gate. "Something else's definitely gonna come out of there, and we're gonna have to deal with it."

While this was a pessimistic way to look at this, it was also a realistic one. Hollows are attracted to souls, more particularly very powerful souls. Kimiko wasn't quite sure of where this portal led to, but if there was another Hollow out there near its opposite side or something that was somehow worse than that, then they would be attracted to the scent of the civilian Pluses in the vicinity. Worse, they would be attracted to each and every one of them, given that they each held much superior spiritual energy in comparison to Pluses. It was definitely possible that nothing was actually going to come out of the gate and that it was going to safely close itself just fine without anything coming out of it that could potentially harm the nearby souls. However, Kimiko just couldn't be this optimistic, not while she remained unaware of where this portal led. For all she knew, it led right into Hueco Mundo, and if that was the case... If that was the case, then Kishi would have made a grave, grave mistake.

Fortunately for them, there was no great attack that came out of that gate. There was no horde of Hollows ready to fall right down onto the 33rd district, nor was there something worse, such as an Arrancar. Yet something did come out of the gate, and it fell onto the ground below with a loud crash that left a crack underneath its feet. With her eyes quickly widening, Kimiko would clench her teeth and quickly scout the area before her gaze froze onto what had appeared from the portal. Just as she had predicted, a Hollow had followed the scent of the souls in the vicinity and had decided to pay them all a visit. It was big, it was agile, and most importantly, it appeared to be intelligent. There was no way that this was just a random Stray Hollow that could be exterminated in an instant. This was an Adjuchas, one of the superior beasts was used to slay in the Living World. if left unattended, this was going to turn ugly quick.

"Tch! Everyone, get out of the way! NOW!" The Captain quickly called to the nearby Pluses after the Hollow landed. As to be expected, however, there was no real need for her to actually tell the Pluses to move, as they wasted no time to begin panicking right away. In an instant, the streets boomed with the scream of children and the untrained. A few of the people in the officers' surroundings, people that Kimiko could recognize as some of the students that followed her teachings, did seemingly attempt to immediately go inside their homes to retrieve some kind of weapon; however, even she knew that they would stand no chance against an Adjuchas. This was all much too sudden for the Hakabe to be properly put to the test, and moreover, it was doubtful that the Adjuchas could be taken down by the Hakabe without many casualties being felt from the side of the latter. No, if there was anyone around who could take that creature down, it was her.

In so doing, with clenched teeth, the swordswoman would slowly begin to unleash her spiritual energy onto her surroundings all the while her hands neared her blades. For the safety of the Soul Society, she was ready to swiftly put an end to the life of the new Hollow, who by now appeared to be targeting a group of children who had failed to flee the area in time. Before she could so much as take a few steps forward and shout out her usual introduction, however, she would stop as Kishi put himself between the children and the Hollow, and then gestured to both she, Shawn and Kazuhiko, seemingly as a way to tell them to remain where they were.  What?  The Captain's thoughts would quickly interrogate as she now stood there, hesitant. It appeared as though the little bean had this under control... but did they? Hesitant, the superior officer would remain there, still very much ready to intervene. But then, just as she felt as though she needed to intervene immediately... it happened.

In an instant, Kishi executed Kagami Kanmeki. Just like that. The way the attack was delivered was not entirely identical to the process she usually showcased to her students, but it was very similar. The stance, the sheer burst of speed, and then the expert precision that came with the attack... Each and every element of the technique was there. It was all achieved so well that it left Kimiko and even a few of the nearby Pluses who had decided to come to help with swords in hand standing there in awe as the head of the assailant flew right off. Then, right before Kimiko could say anything, the little bean pulled out what appeared to be some kind of smaller blade before they slashed at the remains of the Hollow's body, causing said body and the head that landed near it to begin dissolving. The Hollow... It was purified. No longer would it be a threat to the world. More importantly, it would not be used as a means for Kishi to sustain themselves, for they decided to purify it with that blade rather than consume it.

What the sword was, Kimiko could not tell. It was clearly not a Zanpakuto, and in a way, it was probably something that she would need to learn more about at a later time. Regardless, once this brief battle came to an end and the portal above closed, the Captain could only stand there. At first, she was simply silent alongside the rest of the people here, but eventually, one word left her mouth. "... Wonderful." Its tone was one of respect, of admiration, and of course, of pride in someone else. The decision that she decided to make in regards to Kishi had not gone in vain at all. She had made the right choice to not kill them when she had the chance. If this was only still but the beginning of their journey onto the path of swordsmanship, then one day, they could truly become a great asset to the Soul Society. Well, she believed it, at the very least. It would take more than her trust in order for Kishi to be allowed to reach that goal.

In any case, once the Hollow disappeared, the little bean would go on to write down another message on a sheet of paper with his trusty marker, the both of which Kimiko had no idea of where they came from, though ultimately did not mind all that much. The message itself was an apology and, seemingly, a wish to speak. "To be honest with you, Kishi, this was gonna happen whether you wanted it or not. We can't just let you wander around here," she first replied a bit more sternly, almost like a reprimanding parent before she eventually sighed and looked a bit more casual again. "Let's go to my dojo. It's the closest place we can go to, and if we're fast enough, we can enter the building without anybody seeing us." The suggestion was the only one Kimiko had in the moment. While Emile was in Nijūkan West and there was a chance that he would be able to spot them and Kishi, there was no other place that she felt was best to talk in private without anybody else overhearing them. That, and it was nearby. It was best to go there as soon as possible rather than Seireitei.

Once this suggestion was given, the Captain would wait for what the others had to say. She knew that Kishi was most likely going to like the idea, but she wasn't sure Shawn nor Kazuhiko could say the same. As she observed the others, she would notice that the blonde appeared to be in pain, which caused her to frown. "Are you alright, Kazuhiko?" She asked as she turned her attention towards the healer, concerned. "You don't look good."

[Shawn Rabuburēdo]

Shawn barely manages to finish his words when the exact thing the group wanted to prevent happens. The beast was pretty stealthy, though with his higher than normal senses the Captain of squad 13 was able to pick up the movement of the Hollow exiting the Kumon gate. Letting out a sigh Shawn would look to see if anyone else picked up on it. Almost everyone else seemed oblivious to the appearance of this thing with one exception, the little Hollow knight seemed to have noticed and began tensing up.



Moments after Shawn and the friendly Hollow noticed the newcomer, the others started picking up on it. Unaware that he was speaking to a captain, the blonde haired Shinigami yelled for him to work together so they could keep everyone safe. Reaching for his Zanpakuto the captain was ready to release if need be, it seemed such a response would be unnecessary though. The moment he touched the hilt of his sword Caba rushed towards the enemy and single handedly took care of the problem. This situation became even more intriguing when the friendly neighborhood Hollow knight pulled out another sword and purified the enemy.



This action seemed to leave a confused face on more than just Shawn's own, for only seconds after the body completely vanished Kimiko suggested they head to one of her dojo's. This seemed like a good plan, considering she was right about not wanting to leave the little Hollow just wandering around. Shawn had to admit as well, he was interested to learn more about this little visitor. As if on que, the Kumon gate began to close, thus making sure no more uninvited guests would could through it.



"If you want I can take us to the nearest dojo? I can simply open up a Senkimon here and take us there. That way we can keep this little fella out of eyesight completely." He would wait a few moments to see what everyone (but mostly Kimiko) thinks about this. If it's agreed upon he would unsheathe his Zanpakuto from his back and plunge it through the air in front of him. Doing this would cause most of his blade to vanish, at this point he'd twist the sword causing a door to open revealing the rest of his blade. He would then funnel everyone through this door and lead them in the Dangai until they reached the desired location, which thankfully he's visited a few of these dojo's before. If this idea was shot down he'd simply follow the group to the dojo.

[Deleted]

Caballero's initial joy upon meeting Kimiko would not diminish in the slightest, as they were blissfully unaware that she wanted to scold them in the first place. Even so, once receiving their dose of attention, the little Hollow calmed down a little, regressing from that hyperactive joyous state into a much more subdued--yet still happy--walk. It wasn't that Caballero did not appreciate the potential new friends that had arrived, of course not! But nobody could blame them for being more excited about the captain of the Eleventh's arrival to the scene. When Kazuhiko asked whether the two knew each other, the Hollow nodded their head once, as if giving confirmation. They didn't consider the fact that they had an alarmingly high number of witnesses around, and that could bring the captain some trouble. What the poor, confused civilians were seeing should not be happening, by all accounts. Hollows were nothing more than hungering beasts, and the Gotei 13 were the staunch protectors against them, right?

After Caballero had dealt with the Hollow, the act of purification only raised more questions than answers among the Shinigami. Only Kimiko was not caught off guard by this act, as Caballero had once presented themselves to her as a 'fellow member' of the Thirteen Court Guard Squadrons. Upon her words regarding their technique, the tiny knight gave a proper, deep bow. No longer did they faceplant due to the imbalance between the size of their helmet-like mask or their bodies, denoting a much higher degree of contol over themselves than when they had first met. Of course, they also knew quite well that they were a Hollow now, wheras before their own mind had deluded itself into believing that was just the same as any other Shinigami. Despite this, they hadn't changed their ways in the slightest. They continued to fight and purify Hollows, and they continued to protect humans. That much had been shown in the actions they had taken so far, though it would be hard to blame any of the Shinigami present if they were still wary of their presence in the Soul Society.

Since said presence was causing quite the stir, it would be best to remove them from the public eye. This is why Kimiko suggested to take Caballero to one of her dojos, so that they would be able to speak freely, away from sight, so that no alarms would be raised. Needless to say, the tiny Adjuchas was perfectly okay with this. They trusted their friend, and so they nodded to her suggestion, making sure to stash away the signs they had made in the meantime. It wouldn't do to let those around, no sir. First, because they could be used to trace back the event to Kimiko and Celes, due to their names being there. Second, because it was littering, and littering was bad.

When Shawn mentioned that he would be able to take them there in an instant, Caballero turned to him, and approached with curiosity. They were clearly eyeing his Zanpakuto while tilting their head from right to left, as just by getting a good look, they would be able to know what it was capable of. Granted, this was far from possible--the little knight was just interested, as a Gotei 13 fanboy. They were also unsure about what a Senkaimon was, since they'd never used that to travel. Perhaps it was the name of the Kumon portal they knew how to use? In any case, the little Adjuchas would obediently follow everyone while they traveled to Nijukan West, not wanting to get anyone in trouble.

Unfortunately, though, the moment they got to the dojo, Caballero's curiosity would get the best of them. While they knew they were not suppsosed to be in Soul Society, the way everything had been phrased meant they thought that once they arrived to the more secluded space, they would be able to move about freely. Nijukan West belonged to Kimiko, and given it sounded just about the same as her swordstyle, they were far too eager to see what was taught there. It didn't help that Caballero seemed to be obsessed with swordsmanship as well, quite the rare sight for a Hollow. If unstopped, they would dart off on their own, trying to soak in as much of the place as possible. Perhaps they would be able to learn new techniques, or improve their style. If there were some fellow students, they might be able to challenge them to a spar so they could check how far they had come, too! How could anyone resist such a thing?

The fact that they were a powerful being that represented a threat to the safety of those around them didn't really cross their mind in that moment. Their Adjuchas nature meant it was pretty hard for them to go unnoticed, and their limited attention span was already focused on two things: the people with them, and the dojo. Right now the latter was winning by a landslide. If called upon, they might stop, but otherwise they would scurry off to check the entire school, and given their speed and small size, it could prove pretty damn hard to stop them. Should they find any room with students, they would peep from the outside, waiting to see their techniques, and perhaps even jump in to try to join them in their training.

[Satoshi Kazuhiko]

The kumon gate was closed and the struggle was over as quickly as it'd begun. There was relief in the crisis being averted. But it didn't subsume his grief over the hollow having lost its life. So swift. He'd witnessed the same thing when he'd run into Eshin in Hueco Mundo. Then it had been three lives... And he had been complacent in their passing. However, unlike with Eshin, he noted that this hollow appeared to be... Purified?

His thoughts were interrupted as he heard his name. "Hm?" He quickly released his shihakusho and turned his eyes toward Kimiko. She was the Captain of Squad 11. A squad best known for its combat ability. She was perhaps more familiar with death than any of the others present. It made him feel foolish, in a way. Naive. "I'll be okay." He forced a smile. Which meant it took more than a second for it to reach his eyes and become genuine. "The bell tolls for me." He offered in archaic explanation.

"This um... Hollow... Appears to be a friend of yours? If that's the case, do you think you'll need any more help from me?" He couldn't help but look past her at the curious hollow. It hadn't been aggressive. But it had slain that other hollow with extreme prejudice. "There doesn't appear to be any more danger." He paused. "And there isn't anyone to treat, so I'm not sure there'll be much use for one of the Yonbontai within your dojo." The hand that had been gripping his attire now moved to the back of his head bashfully.

He paused. "Though I am curious how you two managed to become friends in the first place." Again, it reminded him of his engagement with the curious wraith known as Eshin. They had forged something of a friendship. At least Kazuhiko called it such. The wraith would never have admitted to such a thing. The thought caused Kazuhiko's smile to widen a bit more. So it wasn't just himself who was willing to befriend a hollow. Even the Captain of Squad 11 could create such a bond! Perhaps he wasn't so naive as he thought! Or... Perhaps Kimiko was more like him than he could have ever guessed!

[Camila Adaronde]

Kazu: 24 paragraphs, 240 TP
Shawn: 12 paragraphs, 120 TP
Kimiko: 31 paragraphs, 310 TP
Celes: 8 paragraphs, 80 TP