Shadows of A Luminous Beyond

[Satoshi Kazuhiko]

A week or two walk? He didn't have the air to balk out loud, so he'd kept it inside. His expression however was not so subtle. Kimiko could see from his open mouth and wide eyes that he hadn't realized just how far they'd traveled. He'd moved on instinct alone. His perception of distance or direction had been lost completely.

This was because he'd utilized his Mirrored Phone Booth technique to keep up with her. It was something he'd developed to stay on top of an attacker. To prevent them from escaping, or prevent them from switching targets onto one of his friends. It allowed him to utilize his absurd sensory information in combination with his abilities of analysis and deductive instinct to predict when and in what direction someone was going to step tech. It wasn't meant for long-distance travel. On top of that, it required him to focus intensely on his subject. She could have led him to hell itself, and he wouldn't have noticed till now. It also explained why he was so exhausted and she wasn't. A clever misuse of an ability he'd developed. And he was paying the price for his cleverness.

Their rest was brief. Kimiko started up the steps and Kazuhiko followed. At first, it was difficult. His insides felt tight and he felt like he couldn't get enough breath. On top of that, the pathway was treacherous. It was shifting and snow-covered. He did his best to follow in Kimiko's footsteps, but as the snow got deeper, he noticed that the steps in front of him were clear. The opposite of how it should have been. Kimiko's doing. He couldn't follow her movements, but what else could it have been?

At times there were no rocks for him to lean upon. He found himself missing the shape of his unreleased Zanpakutou. The great sword had been a fantastic walking stick as he traveled through the deserts of Hueco Mundo. He considered the thought, and how Oyabin Hyaakujuunou probably didn't appreciate him having it. Oops.

This continued for a number of hours. He didn't bother counting the steps, nor how long they'd been moving. In truth, he was thankful for the stay of execution. And oddly, the longer they walked, the better he felt. Another strange detail he'd noticed since returning from Hueco Mundo. He found himself able to recover from exhaustion and injuries faster than before. At first, he'd thought it was because of the ordeals he'd faced in the survival game. But now he was confident it was another symptom of his infection. Like the change in his body and the nightmares and his inability to heal others.

By the time they'd finally reached the top, Kazuhiko felt almost entirely recovered! The reiatsu he'd spent was gone. But his physical conditioning had improved at supernatural speed. The cold air had dried his sweat. The color of his cheeks had recovered. And he looked focused.

He observed the strange base camp. His eyes didn't move, but his expression showed that he was taking it in. Another strange side-effect of his sixth sense being more useful than his eyes. The summit wasn't simply the top of a far-off mountain. There were flags, seats, and a number of stone and clay effigies. They were all unknown to him. But their presence was enough to inform him that this had once, or maybe currently still was, a place of purpose. Spacious and isolated, he couldn't help but smirk as he couldn't fight back the thought that it made for a cool arena. Something inexplicable, from a video game. Who would ever travel this far for a fistfight? And yet... Here he was.

"For both of us?" He didn't understand what it meant. Or how it could be safer than a cell. Was he more dangerous than he'd thought? When he was executed, would his Inner Hollow emerge and try to hurt people? He'd never actually seen or met a Vizard. It occurred to him that, though he'd been taught in the academy, those lessons were sparse in information. "Our battleground?" He repeated her words again. He clicked his tongue afterward, rebuking himself internally for how silly he must have looked just parroting her.

Kimiko continued her explanation. They were going to fight. If he won, he would be arrested. Executed as per the laws of Soul Society. However, if she won, it would be her who was taking his life. He understood the rules... They were simple enough. But he didn't understand their meaning. He was a naive boy. But he wasn't stupid. He'd also observed the way she'd cleared the steps for him. She had shown empathy for him... Or perhaps she'd simply wanted to ensure that he arrived here for this moment? Was there some benefit to killing him away from the Sereitei...

He realized then that he didn't truly know Kimiko Nakajima all that well. He didn't know her motivations or who she truly was. "Regrettably, over the last few months, I've fought a number of deathmatches." He confessed. His left hand grasped his right shoulder. It finally felt warm compared to the frigid, low-oxygen environment they found themselves in. "But I've only ever fought to give life." He continued. He closed his eyes and frowned.

It was with a sudden whip of his left hand that he cast off his robes. The black fabric drifted in the air. They floated briefly before being caught by a biting winter wind and whipped fluttering off the mountaintop. He was left standing before Kimiko in the clothes he wore beneath his overly large robes. A white vest trimmed in gold and white cloth pants. It left his arms exposed. One of man. One of metal.

"I don't understand what is happening here... But I won't let these hands become something that takes life." His eyes remained closed as he presented both of his hands palms up to Kimiko. "And that means I can't let this thing inside of me have the opportunity to take control. Even if it means I have to die."

His feet shifted and his body turned so that his right shoulder was facing Kimiko. He was quick to take on a stance. "But that doesn't mean that I'll just let you kill me!" He'd asked for Kimiko's aide. He'd expected to be arrested. But perhaps this was how the Eleventh performed their executions. A warrior's death. If that was how it was, then so be it! At least out here there was no risk of anyone getting hurt if he lost control. And no chance of Fuuko trying to stop him!

He drew in a deep breath. He allowed his reiatsu to circulate through his body. His right arm began to hum and whirr and glow white as its channels filled with light so brilliant it made the snow look black by comparison. His left arm came up, fist by his chin. His right arm hovered by his mid-section. It was clear that it was a fighting pose. One that put his release out in front of him, hiding his body behind its shoulder. His other hand would be hopeless when it came to deflecting steel, but in this posture, Hyaakujuunuou would serve as both shield and sword.

He squared himself up with Kimiko, preparing to receive her. His body shifted rhythmically as if swaying in a trance. Constant and perpetual motion. It was clear that, despite his reputation as a pacifist, he was skilled. This curious stance and swaying movement was his signature stance. The Rukongai Roll. And whether Kimiko realized it or not, he was already beginning to read and dissect her movements!

SPOILER: Click to show

{The Rukongai Roll}

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

SPOILER: Click to show

{Trackers}
Rukongai Roll - 80% (75% + 5%(1 turn))
Reiatsu Total 5900/6000
Reiatsu Spent:
100 - Rukongai Roll
[Techniques]

SPOILER: Click to show

{The Rukongai Roll}
Technique Name: Beast King Boxing - The Rukongai Roll

Technique Class: 3

Technique Type: General Physical, Sensory

Usable By: All

Technique Element: N/A

Technique Cost: 100 Reiatsu a post.

Description: In order to use the Rukongai Roll the user must meet these qualifications at time of implementation:

Martial Skill >2
Sensory >450
Instinct >300

The user closes their eyes, blocking out this very important sense in order to harmonize with the opponent. Because of this, the technique can only be used when the opponent is within 10 meters. This is expanded to 20 meters at 600 Sensory, 30 meters at 900 sensory, and 50 meters at 1200 sensory.

The user focuses on their senses and reads their opponent's movements in advance. The sound of their heartbeat. The contracting of their muscles. The subtle changes in their body chemistry are all notes used to predict the opponent's attacks. And the longer the user is in combat with their opponent, the more they begin to understand them.

While active, the user is able to replace their Speed with their Sensory stat for the purposes of dodging attacks by opponents within their range. In the event that they are unable to dodge, they are able to add their instinct to their strength for the purpose of suffering the hit. This is because they are slipping the attack and moving with it, rather than against it.

The Rukongai Roll utilizes 75% of the user's Senses. This increases by 5% per post of combat within the same instance of combat, up to a maximum of 125% as the user becomes more accustomed to their opponent's movements.

How to Use: The Rukongai Roll is a defensive form that utilizes advanced sensory and instinct to allow the user to defend themself against an opponent once in close. This technique utilizes footwork and body movement to steal the momentum and threat away from an opponent's attacks by harmonizing with them.

In order to use the Rukongai Roll, the user must close off one of their most important senses. Their eyes. However, with enough sensory and fighting knowledge, they are able to read their opponent and react before their opponent strikes. This form is not the same as dodging, but rather slipping attacks. An attack that lands can be rendered completely harmless. But in the event that it isn't, its impact is mitigated by going with the flow of the attack and potentially leaving the opponent open for a bad trade!

This stance is very specific and identifiable. The user stands with their lead arm in front of their torso, in the center of their abdomen. Their off-hand stays up by their face. And lastly, their lead shoulder is tucked with a lean, serving as another barrier point.

Drawbacks: The user must close their eyes to avoid sensory overload. The user must pay 100 Reiatsu a post. This technique also has an identifiable stance.

Reserved?: Yes, Satoshi Kazuhiko.

Made By: Sucker Punch

[Nakajima Kimiko]

There was no one who could blame Kazuhiko for being confused by the context he was suddenly presented. Not even Kimiko - who was literally the one who was responsible for the creation of this context - could do so. Should she have been in his place, her reaction would have most likely been very similar to his. With that said, she would have most likely attempted to get answers to the many questions which this contest would have immediately generated. There would have been many, as it always goes with her over-productive mind, but there would have been many notable ones. For instance, she would have tried to more fervently demand an answer about the point of this escort to this mountain. She would have also attempted to understand the meaning behind the great mountain which they now stood on, behind the statue which they now beheld, behind the literal origins of such a strange and unusual place at the edge of the heavenly realm. But Kazuhiko, from the looks of things, didn't seem to want to do so. Instead, he wanted to simply prepare himself for what's to come.

Perhaps it was selfish of her to think this way. She did want him to have questions rampaging inside of his head like they did within hers, and she did want him to ponder about all of them to a certain extent. However, she also wanted him to be able to develop a drive to answer these questions, a drive similar to hers. For now, she did not believe that this drive was currently present; if anything, it appeared to be totally absent. At first, the swordswoman wasn't quite sure of why that was. However, after giving it some thought, she would begin to guess that this lack of motivation to search for the meaning of unknown things was brought about by the fact that the man simply believed that he was going to die very soon, whether by the hands of the Gotei 13 or by Kimiko's. It was not unusual for the condemned to no longer search the truth, after all, and at this point in time, it could be said that the medic was indeed condemned. 

Even so, the swordswoman expected better. She wanted better, no, required better. This kind of willpower was something that the Soul Society needed in this day and age of constant turmoil. To discard it, all because that willpower came from something that was not quite up to par with the standards set about by those above, was nothing short of plain insanity. At the very least, Kimiko believed this to be the case. Willpower was what fueled her students and her subordinates. Without willpower, without the pure instinct to move forward when all hell breaks loose, the soul breaks down. Once that happens, the only thing that remains is nothing more than an useless husk which will never accomplish anything again, whether it be alive or dead. Unfortunately, the more time went on, the more Captain began to understand that this world was governed by such husks, pitiful cowards who wished to do nothing but secure themselves in towers of glass, unbeknownst to their own unconscious damnation. 

Obviously, she didn't want Kazuhiko to turn into that. She didn't want him to become a husk whose worth is so thin that its only use is merely to be executed in front of the masses. She wanted him to become more, something that would shine with such brilliance that it would bring the Soul Society to such great heights that it will truly deserve the nickname that was bestowed to it by those of the Living Realm. In other words, she wanted him to become a protector for the people of the Soul Society, much like how she has decided to do so, and much like how the people of the Eleventh Division have decided to become upon joining it. More importantly, she wanted him to become strong enough in order to defend his sister at all cost... and to die like a dog, even one who was willing to sacrifice himself, was no sign of strength. Unfortunately, it was quite the opposite, and the only thing it would bring to both he and the people he loves is both pain and regret.

It was these thoughts that allowed the Captain to then wait for the man's reply to her challenge. She wanted to see how this was going to go. Again, the medic was not a violent man, and so a part of her expected him to simply refuse to fight. This would have been an unsurprising, if not a disappointing conclusion to this entire ordeal. However, fortunately enough, a denial would not be what Kimiko would receive in this moment. Instead, she would watch as the man declared his goal in this moment and discarded his primary robes so as to reveal what was beneath them. The taller woman's attention was instantly brought to the metallic arm that took the place of the man's right upper limb. It was a prosthetic of gold, one which shone brightly all thanks to the distant evening sun. Either that, or the spiritual energy that fueled it. There was no doubt about it in the slightest: this was the man's new Zanpakuto, his permanent release. Regardless, the medic's words were what mattered most to Kimiko at that time, and so she listened.

From the looks of things, the man didn't want to kill anything or anyone, and he didn't want his body to be used as an instrument meant to accomplish that objective in any fashion. Kimiko believed these words without hesitation; after all, she could still remember the profound regret he had shown when Kishi, the Hollow Knight in service of the Soul Society, had slain an invading Adjuchas right in front of him. She also believed these words to be ultimately foolish, especially in a world where death was the one thing which was most omnipresent above all else... but at the very least, she was able to quickly see that such a statement did not allow the man to become complacent in the face of a battle. In fact, he made sure to declare to her that he was not going to simply allow the woman to kill him, all the while suddenly adopting a stance suited for combat. An admirable statement from an admirable young man, to say the very least.

In normal circumstances, this would have brought a smile to the superior officer's face. She was glad to see that the only thing that was required of her in order to somewhat pivot Kazuhiko's mind away from death via the forces of the law was but a simple challenge. Yet, in order for her to allow the medic to better understand what was going to happen next, she knew that she needed to remain impartial. Thus, after the young man was finished with his preparations, the Captain would take let out a grunt of approval. "Good! Warriors don't cower before a fight! They face their opponent with their head up high, and they look at them straight in the eyes!" She replied, this time with a louder voice than usual. Her voice was louder, brimming with power. It echoed throughout the area and permeated the nearby winds almost effortlessly. Then, just as her words stopped being repeated by their surroundings, power surged from Kimiko once more.

The spiritual energy that was rising from her was starting to be overwhelming again, yet it somehow dealt no damage to their surroundings. It was as if whatever ancient energy remained embedded within the very foundation of this mountain was powerful enough to withstand Kimiko's pressure. However, the same could not be said for Kazuhiko. The more this went on, the more he would begin to feel it press onto him. It was heavy, very heavy, and it would make sure to test his ability to remain standing in spite of everything he has gone through as of yet. Worse of all, it made Kimiko's image beneath the clay-faced deity appear to be so much more intimidating than it was even moments prior. As it stands, she almost appeared as an arbiter for the deity, a scarlet-eyed being that served it and propagated its will. This was not something that Kimiko realized in the moment; in fact, she was now completely ignoring the statue. In spite of this, draped in shadow, she appeared as its warrior, its instrument of death. In other words, she was akin to a weapon of war, one that was about to face off against a tool designed to sustain life.

By the time her spiritual energy appeared to reach its apex, enough so that Kazuhiko would almost be able to feel much of its weight against his being, the swordswoman looked onward towards the medic. Behind him, she saw her again. The dark creature stared back at her with that calm and haunting smile, motionless. This time, though, she did not do anything; instead, she merely observed. This caused Kimiko to frown, but nevertheless, she held on. She needed to stay strong, if only to better allow her opponent to prepare for what was to come next. "Third Seat of the Fourth Division, Satoshi Kazuhiko! You now face Nakajima Kimiko, Captain of the Eleventh Division, and owner of Nijūkan!" She shouted powerfully at that moment. Her voice had become so loud that it almost seemed as though it permeated even within the waves of spiritual energy which pulsed from her body. "May we settle this problem of ours with a great fight!" 

The tone behind the words she shouted was omnipresent. Some could say that it was even overwhelming. It invaded one's senses and inserted itself upon them without mercy. However, there was something about it that was positive for Kazuhiko. It brought with it the energy that fueled Kimiko's every present day, its power. It was as though the Captain's sheer willpower had been made manifest and had been shared to the young man. On one hand, it would feel exquisite and perhaps even addicting. It would most likely allow Kazuhiko to fight this sudden threat head-on and to not decide to suddenly look back. On the other hand, it only showcased how utterly powerful this aforementioned threat who now stood before him was. If this is the power she can showcase by using her emotions alone... there was nothing that could properly describe how far she could go physically or spiritually. Hell, there was nothing that suggested that what was being pressed upon him was her maximum power.

Either way, Kimiko would find herself staring at the man for a moment after she finished her formal introductions. She would stand still, allowing her spiritual energy to further embolden her image in front of the multi-armed statue. Then, slowly, she began to move forward towards Kazuhiko. Each step she took towards him was slow, yet methodical, and from each of them resonated a single sound from her sandals as they were pressed against the ice and stone below. Clack. Clack. Clack. Clack. These noises would bring her onward, and onward, and onward towards Kazuhiko. They were short steps, all things considered, and considering the size of the arena, she didn't seem to approach him all that quickly. Nevertheless, they brought her and her horrifying image ever onward. For a reason left unexplained, in spite of her sheathed weapons, there was something about the way she moved forward that caused a great sense of danger to surround her. It was as though she could strike at any given moment.

Clack. Clack. Clack. 

Clack. Clack.

Clack.

Cl...

... The sequence was suddenly interrupted. It didn't seem like much. It lasted for perhaps less than a second. And yet, in spite of this, it was more than enough time for Kimiko to have suddenly appeared right in front of the young man with the aid of Shunpo at a speed of 7000. Now gazing upon him from so close with that wide-eyed stare, she gave him almost no chance to react. Instantly, at a Speed of 700, she would crouch forward, then unsheathe her two blades towards him to deliver two upper-horizontal Iaijutsu slashes. If the attempt was successful, Kazuhiko would be dealt with two cut wounds in the shape of an X on his chest. Fortunately, they would not be deep, as the Captain appeared to be considerate enough to not go all out on him. Even so, her speed would be merciless. 

She may not fight him at her utmost strength, but it was very clear that she was going to take him seriously.

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

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reiatsu: 6950/7000}
Technique Name: Akuma no Ishi (剃るかんめき, "Demon's Will")

Technique Type: Other | Strength of Will Buff

Technique Element: None

Usable by: All races

Class: 3

Technique Reiatsu Cost: N/A

Technique Description and Effects

The projection of one's own will to empower the hearts of others. The user channels the strength of their very soul within themselves before shouting it out, most typically either in a short inspirational speech or a motivational war cry. By accomplishing this, the user is capable of bringing forth the Strength of Will skill of all of their surrounding allies by one point for the next three posts, inspiring them to go further beyond towards victory even if such a thing may cost their lives. A master of this skill is said to have such a powerful will that they are able to instead bring the aforementioned skill of their allies up by two points.


Drawbacks & Weaknesses

As saddening as this may be to those who may be interested in learning this technique, not everyone is born with a powerful will. That is simply a natural, uncontested fact that cannot be refuted even by the greatest minds there is in this world. In so doing, it is not difficult to imagine that this technique will not always show any kind of positive effect onto the people surrounding them, especially if they are used by naturally-uninspiring individuals. In order to guarantee this technique's proper success, the user must possess a 2 in at least one of the following skills: Acting, Charisma, or Strength of Will. This technique can be executed by those who have a lesser version of these skills if they so will it; however, upon execution, there will be a 50% chance of this skill failing to provide any kind of inspiration to allies altogether.


Made by: Nakajima Kimiko

Reserved? : No

---

Technique Name: Shunpo (瞬歩, "Flash Steps")

Class: 7

Technique Type: Kidō

Technique Element: None

Technique Reiatsu Cost: 50/step

Technique Description and Effects

A movement technique that allows the user to move faster than the eye can follow. The focal point that determines the basis of this technique is speed. As speed is the main point of the technique, the method is best characterized by how fast one can get from Point A to Point B in the least amount of steps. Training and skill are what determines how fast a user of Shunpo can move. Those of little skill in the technique or those who haven't used it for an extended amount of time would obviously be out of practice, causing those individuals to be considerably slower. This requires the use of more steps to move the same distance and become tired more easily in a shorter amount of time. A single step magnifies speed for that step by ten times. Shunpo uses fifty Reiatsu per step. This one is automatically learned in the academy. All Shinigami know this when created. This technique does not take up a technique slot.

How to use technique

Focus of Reishi around the feet area and launch off into a single blurring step. It is not unlike teleportation in appearance, but it is simply extremely fast movement. It is often used to gain an edge in a single moment of combat or to dodge incoming attacks.

[Satoshi Kazuhiko]

If the situation wasn't so dire, he would have smirked. Warriors face their opponents while looking them in the eyes. There was undeniable humor in her saying such a thing to the boy who faced his foes with his eyes closed. Admittedly, he could see her better now than he could see her with them open. He'd be sure to explain it to her later. ...If there was a later.

However, the weight of the Captain's spiritual pressure wasn't a laughing matter. Her very presence weight down upon him. It was as if the sky was falling down upon him. Like Atlas, he felt as though he had to hold up the world. He clenched his jaw, gritting his teeth, and endured... But it drove home the difference between them. He couldn't compete with her strength... Not head-on. It didn't matter how much his legs trembled... He'd not allow himself to fall!

The burden got heavier. And heavier still. The arm across his abdomen started to fall like a lever being pushed down. It was only through a great exertion of will that he kept it up. Maintained his fighting pose. But in that moment something purred inside his mind. "Why bother? You're outmatched. Again. Always outmatched. You're nothing by yourself." The disembodied voice felt like silk rubbing against the inside of his skull. Invasive but somehow pleasant to the touch.

His heart skipped a beat. He felt his will splinter. And at that moment, Kimiko's Battlecry announced the start of their bout. It was a coincidence, surely, but her inspiring battle cry caused the Cheshire mockery to disappear, like wisps of smoke on a breeze. It was reinvigorating in a way he couldn't quite understand. The weight of her spiritual pressure felt lighter. His doubts about his ability to perform faded.

Though they were replaced by new ones. He often relied on the strength of his character to outlast his opponents. But Kimiko's resolve alone was strong enough to bolster him. He was outmatched. And yet, her willpower urged him to fight regardless.

Kimiko's steps approached him slowly at first. Slow. Leisurely. Like a walk. He studied them intently. He focused on the way her body moved. The tension in her muscles. The beating of her heart. The drawing of her breath. He searched for any evidence of her intention. And mid-thought she disappeared!

She was fast! So fast that he couldn't track her! The sensation caused his heart to feel like it had jumped into his throat! Most things he observed with his sixth sense were new sensations. Like seeing a color for the first time. But he'd never felt something this fast! It moved through and disturbed the particles within his field, but it did so at such a speed that it was as if it hadn't. As if she had warped into position rather than moved!

And suddenly he could feel her again! She appeared right in front of him! He could feel her intent before he ever felt her movement! She was going to attack! Her weapons were still sheathed, but their drawing was faster than if they had been exposed to the chilly mountain air! He could see them move! His mind worked to find a way out! But they were so fast that even with his predictive analysis, he was trapped! He couldn't escape! [effective speed for dodging: 510]

"Itaa-~!" He cried out in pain.

His back bent as he leaned away from the cross-shaped slash! A boxer's sway was the best he could manage. A deadly game of limbo. The blades flashed, a flicker of light. The fabric of his vest split! Thin furrows of red formed across his chest! But instead of gashes, they were cuts. Blood still ran down his smooth chest in thin lines... But flesh hadn't been flayed from his bones. He'd rolled his body away from the attack to make the cut shallower. It was an impressive feat of precise, controlled movement. A direct result of his curious Rukongai Roll stance! [effective str for damage absorption purposes: 500]

But the motion had a secondary purpose! He couldn't step back. He maintained his balance and composure. And stepped into her with his back still bent! His sway had also hidden a concurrent counter-attack! One thrown amidst Kimiko's slash. In the same motion as his sway, his right arm whipped out in a hook toward Kimiko's ribs. The punch was tight and in-close, and thrown a level below the Captain's high slashes. It was naive, but he'd gone for a trade. One that relied on going unnoticed. Because even occupied with her own attack, his speed couldn't compare to hers.

He couldn't step back because he was betting on distance to be the difference-maker in this battle! every step closer to her put her inside of his range. The closer the opponent the less versatile a sword became. Maybe... Just maybe if he made this a phone booth fight... he could win!

SPOILER: Click to show

{Trackers}
Rukongai Roll - 85% (75% + 10%(2 turn))
Previous Total Reiatsu: 5900/6000
Reiatsu Spent:
100 - Rukongai Roll
Reiatsu Total 5800/6000
[Techniques]

SPOILER: Click to show

{The Rukongai Roll}
Technique Name: Beast King Boxing - The Rukongai Roll

Technique Class: 3

Technique Type: General Physical, Sensory

Usable By: All

Technique Element: N/A

Technique Cost: 100 Reiatsu a post.

Description: In order to use the Rukongai Roll the user must meet these qualifications at time of implementation:

Martial Skill >2
Sensory >450
Instinct >300

The user closes their eyes, blocking out this very important sense in order to harmonize with the opponent. Because of this, the technique can only be used when the opponent is within 10 meters. This is expanded to 20 meters at 600 Sensory, 30 meters at 900 sensory, and 50 meters at 1200 sensory.

The user focuses on their senses and reads their opponent's movements in advance. The sound of their heartbeat. The contracting of their muscles. The subtle changes in their body chemistry are all notes used to predict the opponent's attacks. And the longer the user is in combat with their opponent, the more they begin to understand them.

While active, the user is able to replace their Speed with their Sensory stat for the purposes of dodging attacks by opponents within their range. In the event that they are unable to dodge, they are able to add their instinct to their strength for the purpose of suffering the hit. This is because they are slipping the attack and moving with it, rather than against it.

The Rukongai Roll utilizes 75% of the user's Senses. This increases by 5% per post of combat within the same instance of combat, up to a maximum of 125% as the user becomes more accustomed to their opponent's movements.

How to Use: The Rukongai Roll is a defensive form that utilizes advanced sensory and instinct to allow the user to defend themself against an opponent once in close. This technique utilizes footwork and body movement to steal the momentum and threat away from an opponent's attacks by harmonizing with them.

In order to use the Rukongai Roll, the user must close off one of their most important senses. Their eyes. However, with enough sensory and fighting knowledge, they are able to read their opponent and react before their opponent strikes. This form is not the same as dodging, but rather slipping attacks. An attack that lands can be rendered completely harmless. But in the event that it isn't, its impact is mitigated by going with the flow of the attack and potentially leaving the opponent open for a bad trade!

This stance is very specific and identifiable. The user stands with their lead arm in front of their torso, in the center of their abdomen. Their off-hand stays up by their face. And lastly, their lead shoulder is tucked with a lean, serving as another barrier point.

Drawbacks: The user must close their eyes to avoid sensory overload. The user must pay 100 Reiatsu a post. This technique also has an identifiable stance.

Reserved?: Yes, Satoshi Kazuhiko.

Made By: Sucker Punch

[Nakajima Kimiko]

There was indeed some irony to be observed from Kimiko's declaration in this moment. Kazuhiko, visibly attempting to adopt some kind of combative stance, had closed his eyes, and at a glance, his sight was thus nullified. From this perspective, it could then be said that he was not actually looking at the Captain of the Eleventh straight in the eyes. However, Kimiko had a feeling that this act was not deliberately achieved for no reason at all. She doubted that there was no goal behind it, and she also doubted that this was the product of fear; after all, the medic was a strong young man and, if his previous words were anything to go by, he was not at all cowering before even her almighty presence. No, it could not be fear nor could it be cowardice, else the fight would have ended then and there. For all she knew, with his eyes closed in such a way, he was looking at her with a clear sight that was more open than ever before.

This was good. His sight may now be unconventional, but she wanted him to witness the oncoming battle. If not, she at the very least wanted him to feel it. Fortunately, it did appear as though he was feeling it in full, as while her spiritual energy continued its omnipresent invasion of their surroundings, so did its effects onto the lower officer's body. It pushed him down, bringing him ever-so-closer to the ground, and it threatened to leave him there at any given moment. Yet, much to Kimiko's satisfaction, he did not falter. No, he held on. Some would say that this was only because the dojo master had made sure to bring about the sheer strength of her ridiculous will, but she very much knew that there was only so much her will could do in order to allow people to survive such a force. In other words, she fully believed that there was more to it than that, and to witness this officer still stand was nothing short of impressive.

Of course, in the moment, there was a part of her that believed that this was nothing more than the work of Kazuhiko's Inner Hollow. If he really was a Vizard like he claimed to be, then it was entirely possible that the thing which was now lodged deep inside his soul was deliberately using its dark power to embolden him against the pressure of the swordswoman's spiritual energy. She has been strengthened by her own Inner Hollow countless times, albeit negatively more often than not, and so it would be foolish of her to not ignore this possibility. This creature, which Kimiko could still witness as she remained by Kazuhiko's side, seemed to share that same thought, as made woefully apparent by the calm yet excited smile that was still imprinted upon her lips. In spite of all of this, however, the swordswoman truly hoped that it had nothing to do with this, if only because she didn't want to see it suddenly take hold of Kazuhiko right then and there.

After a time, the fight eventually began. Kimiko would be the one who would proceed with the first move of this battle. Usually, she would have gone with one of her conventional direct assaults, given that most of her opponents throughout her Shinigami career had proven to be completely unable to respond to them appropriately. However, this time, she decided to instead give a chance to Kazuhiko to understand her. As she walked forward so slowly, she wanted him to understand her. She wanted to further impress upon him the might of her power, yes, but more importantly, she wanted him to perhaps understand something more. If he was so bold as to risk closing his eyes in order to do battle with her, then it meant that he could perhaps see things she could not. Maybe, if he put enough effort into it, he could understand why she was doing this whole thing in the first place only by studying her. He could perhaps witness how angry she was at something and how seriously she was treating this matter... but he could perhaps also see how hopeful she was in that moment.

With all of that being said, there was only so much time that she could grant to the young man. She could have allowed him to analyze her all day, but ultimately, such a method of analysis was not going to grant them any peace of mind. So, eventually, the woman began her full-fledged offensive. At maximum speed, she appeared before him with a monstrous Shunpo, then proceeded with her attack. The slashes she delivered to Kazuhiko were not particularly complex; really, they were nothing more than two horizontal swipes, with the only difference between them and a normal slash being that the blades were sheathed a split-second prior. The damage that they dealt to the young man wasn't particularly impressive either, as although they certainly went through the skin and the edges of the muscle, they did not reach the bone, mainly thanks to the medic's dodging maneuver. However, no sooner than less than a second later, Kazuhiko would be quickly able to understand why these slashes were so dangerous to begin with.

Once the blades had finished cutting through the first layers of the skin which covered Kazuhiko's chest, their owner's body would allow itself to be moved forward by their momentum. As she was pulled onward, her scarlet eyes would remain onto her opponent. She could see that the man had thrown a counter-attack to her slashes, as made evident by the oncoming fist targeting her stomach. It was a noteworthy attempt to strike her at the same time as she did, one that inadvertently revealed how perceptive the man was even with his eyes closed. Moreover, it showed how tenacious, courageous, and even somewhat ballsy he was for daring to even attempt striking her during her own strikes. However, unfortunately, it was also an attack that could not rival Kimiko's speed or even her own instincts. Not in the slightest. Before the punch was even thrown at her, she already began to feel the attack coming right towards her. With this in mind, she would then go on to quickly prove the sheer threat her basic attacks presented to Kazuhiko, simply by allowing herself to move with the flow of her momentum.

Letting out a powerful cry, the woman's body would find itself bending towards the right so as to dodge the incoming punch. The young man's fist would pass right by her left hip as as she accomplished this feat. It was close, enough so that it even touched her haori and the Shihakusho beneath it, but it did not reach her skin. Instead, it would fly right past Kimiko's original position as she straightened the white blade in her right hand, then sent it down towards Kazuhiko's left shoulder. Again, this attack was done quickly at a speed of 700, a velocity that was similar to the one tied to the earlier cross slash. Moreover, just like this same cross slash, this slash would also not be extremely damaging, which would be enough for Kazuhiko to understand that she wasn't entirely going all out on him just yet. With that being said, Kimiko wasn't quite done just yet, as proven by the sudden noise of spinning iron which suddenly resonated from the black blade in her left hand.

The Captain had begun to rotate the aforementioned weapon between her fingers. She did so both with speed and precision that was nothing short of superhuman, so much so that, at a glance, it barely even looked like she was holding onto a blade; rather, it more so seemed akin to a circular saw. In perhaps the matter of only a single second, it had spun an uncountable amount of times, leaving behind it the sickening sound of twirling metal and rushing wind that would most likely be quite loud for the medic, especially given that it spun near his right ear. This spinning would continue throughout the descent of the white blade. Then, once the white blade would finish its attack and bring Kimiko down with it with its momentum, the spinning would suddenly stop as the black blade would suddenly be thrown right into its scabbard. After this process was completed, Kimiko's grip around the black blade's hilt then hardened... before she then suddenly unleashed a single powerful Iaijutsu slash. This time, the attack was mixed in with the likes of Shunpo, causing it to be thrown at a Speed of 2100.

All of this was a show of ridiculous skill, the kind of extreme swordsmanship to most definitely expect from a Captain who happened to be the master of a school of swordsmanship. In a way, considering that fact, it could be said that Kazuhiko shouldn't really be surprised. Even so, everything that has just happened should have granted him enough information to allow him to be able to understand the threat that was beginning to take shape before him. If he is incapable of somehow bringing a stop to this, he will be caught in a whirlwind of black and white that will most likely overwhelm him in the matter of perhaps a minute or so. The damage may be meager for now, but if this whirlwind fully takes shape, it'll only be a matter of time before the little scars he has accumulated become too overwhelming for him to handle.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reiatsu: 6950/7000}
Technique Name: Iaijutsu (居合術, "Sudden Strike Technique") [3x Speed version]

Class: 4

Technique Type: General Physical Technique

Technique Element: None

Usable by: Any

Technique Description and Effects

The user of this technique draws their sword and strikes with one fluid, lightning-fast motion. This technique can easily catch an unprepared opponent off-guard. This attack is made at 2x the user's Speed, or at a speed of 600 (whichever is faster). Due to the sudden nature of this attack, characters with less than 200 Instinct are caught completely flat-footed and unable to react to this attack, unless they meet one of the alternative requirements (see drawbacks below).

Except where noted, this is otherwise an ordinary melee strike and has no reiatsu cost. Proficiency with this technique allows the user to immediately sheathe their weapon after making their attack.

Mastery of this technique allows for it to be combined with Shunpo to draw, strike, and sheathe the weapon in the blink of an eye. This variant costs 50 reiatsu to perform, and gains the benefits of a 3x Speed Boost (instead of the usual 2x). This variant is imperceptible to characters with less than 200 Senses. Characters with 200+ Senses detect a blur of movement from the user but may not be able to react to the attack unless they have 200+ Instinct and/or one of the benefits listed in drawbacks below.

How to use technique

Simply draw your weapon and strike in a single fluid motion.

Drawback

This technique rarely works more than once per thread, as any opponent who witnesses this technique being used can react to it normally (regardless of Instinct). Even against aware opponents, this attack retains its speed however and should not be underestimated.

In addition, characters who know this technique or have Battle Analysis of 2 (or above) can easily identify the ready stances used in this technique and predict the user's intent. Such characters are never caught off-guard by this attack but will still need to react to its incredible speed.

This technique can only be used with a sheathed sword. In order to use this technique more than once during a single thread, the user must sheathe their weapon prior to using this technique again. This technique requires 2 SkP in Weapons (Sword) in order to be used, and 3 SkP to be mastered.

Made by: Kerrigan

Reserved? : No

[Satoshi Kazuhiko]

"Too slow!" He thought to himself. He felt the brush of Kimiko's attire upon the edge of his strange prosthetic shikai. He's nearly touched her, but all that was beneath the fabric was air.

The Captain had somehow altered her trajectory mid-attack, allowing her body to give in to the kinetic pull of her attack and slip the blow. It wasn't unlike what he'd tried to accomplish with his defense. The difference, was she was succesful. She was accomplishing what he was capable without the aid of his sixth sense.

His body turned with hers, following her and keeping in step. He couldn't get closer, her movements were too fast! But her dodge had committed her whole body to a big movement. He had the inside track! And using his knowledge of boxing he would begin "cutting off the ring". He made smaller, angular movements to take a shorter route, with smaller steps, to maintain their previous spacing. But more importantly, put the majority of the arena behind them.

Blood hit the arena floor in a straight line of crimson! Kimiko's falling slash bit into the flesh of his left arm. He bit back a cry of pain. His body once again moved with the slash, preventing it from doing any damage beyond being skin deep. But he was beginning to wonder if it was because he was rolling with the blows, of if it was because she was allowing it.

His eyes moved beneath his eye lids as he rapidly processed all of the data he was receiving. Her foot work was without pause. By the time one foot landed the other was already in motion, like a dance. And the same was true with her sword arms... one sword was easy to isolate, but two was a constant dervish of steel.

His attention diverted then. A constant spinning. Like an industrial fan. The human eye would have never caught it. But it was only somewhat faster than his sixth sense could track. Somewhat faster. The thought would have made him laugh if he wasn't currently being carved up like a holiday ham... The gap between was more like a chasm.

It was difficult to maintain his focus. He felt a mire of despair bogging him down. As if his mind had to wade through a waist deep muck of emotional baggage. The sound of the wind being cut was like a foreboding thene in a horror movie. Plodding. Constant. Ominous.

And just like said music, it was building to a sting!

Everything stopped for a heartbeat. Her movement. The spinning. His attention focused. He felt the clink of her handguard hit the boundary of her scabbard. He felt the tension in her body... A shunpo?

"Itaaaaa~!" The slash ripped across his chest splitting his vest faster than the speed of thought. The top half of his vest fell off his shoulders. The bottom half fell past his waist like the petals of a blossoming rose. And just as red.

Too slow... I'm still too slow! He hadn't even been able to roll with the second slash. It was too fast. He couldn't detect it... and if he couldn't detect it he couldn't flow with it. It was noticeably deeper than the other cuts.

But it was worth noting... He stood his ground. Still one swordlength away. Still too far from his goal... But no further than he had been a moment prior. An accomplishment in its own right.

But in the moment he'd gotten cut he recognized the components of the attack. Of her style. The longer they fought the more he began to understand the intricacies of her body. Her tells. Her angles. If he could survive long enough, he might even be able to dodge her slashes! An understanding, a plan, was forming.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Trackers}
Rukongai Roll - 90% (75% + 15%(3 turn))
Previous Total Reiatsu: 5800/6000
Reiatsu Spent:
100 - Rukongai Roll
Reiatsu Total 5700/6000
[Techniques]

SPOILER: Click to show

{The Rukongai Roll}
Technique Name: Beast King Boxing - The Rukongai Roll

Technique Class: 3

Technique Type: General Physical, Sensory

Usable By: All

Technique Element: N/A

Technique Cost: 100 Reiatsu a post.

Description: In order to use the Rukongai Roll the user must meet these qualifications at time of implementation:

Martial Skill >2
Sensory >450
Instinct >300

The user closes their eyes, blocking out this very important sense in order to harmonize with the opponent. Because of this, the technique can only be used when the opponent is within 10 meters. This is expanded to 20 meters at 600 Sensory, 30 meters at 900 sensory, and 50 meters at 1200 sensory.

The user focuses on their senses and reads their opponent's movements in advance. The sound of their heartbeat. The contracting of their muscles. The subtle changes in their body chemistry are all notes used to predict the opponent's attacks. And the longer the user is in combat with their opponent, the more they begin to understand them.

While active, the user is able to replace their Speed with their Sensory stat for the purposes of dodging attacks by opponents within their range. In the event that they are unable to dodge, they are able to add their instinct to their strength for the purpose of suffering the hit. This is because they are slipping the attack and moving with it, rather than against it.

The Rukongai Roll utilizes 75% of the user's Senses. This increases by 5% per post of combat within the same instance of combat, up to a maximum of 125% as the user becomes more accustomed to their opponent's movements.

How to Use: The Rukongai Roll is a defensive form that utilizes advanced sensory and instinct to allow the user to defend themself against an opponent once in close. This technique utilizes footwork and body movement to steal the momentum and threat away from an opponent's attacks by harmonizing with them.

In order to use the Rukongai Roll, the user must close off one of their most important senses. Their eyes. However, with enough sensory and fighting knowledge, they are able to read their opponent and react before their opponent strikes. This form is not the same as dodging, but rather slipping attacks. An attack that lands can be rendered completely harmless. But in the event that it isn't, its impact is mitigated by going with the flow of the attack and potentially leaving the opponent open for a bad trade!

This stance is very specific and identifiable. The user stands with their lead arm in front of their torso, in the center of their abdomen. Their off-hand stays up by their face. And lastly, their lead shoulder is tucked with a lean, serving as another barrier point.

Drawbacks: The user must close their eyes to avoid sensory overload. The user must pay 100 Reiatsu a post. This technique also has an identifiable stance.

Reserved?: Yes, Satoshi Kazuhiko.

Made By: Sucker Punch

[Nakajima Kimiko]

Kimiko had fought a lot of hand-to-hand fighters. Truly, she had. Although she was part of an organization that prioritized the use of sacred spiritual swords in order to achieve mystical empowerment, it was not at all uncommon for her to do battle with people who instead preferred to use their fists. Celes, her mentor, was undoubtedly and ironically part of that camp in spite of how the dojo master eventually turned out to become under her wing, but there was also Kaen, the Vice-Captain of the Seventh whom she had the displeasure of sparring with a time ago. There was also a few of her students who wished to perform Iaijutsu techniques with their hands rather than their blades. And of course, there was also Binita, her friend and comrade within the Eleventh since her very first day. These experiences were unique, to say the least, especially for a swordswoman such as she. Nevertheless, they were fruitful, namely thanks to the information that she gathered from their completion.

Like all fighters, those who preferred the fist over the blade had their own distinctive styles. It wasn't entirely difficult to identify them after a while. Celes, for instance, was a powerful fighter, one who took advantage of her solid body to deliver heavy hits. Binita, meanwhile, was a grappler who always attempted to bridge the distance between she and her opponent as swiftly as possible in order to grab onto them and, in most occasions, end the fight right then and there. In the case of the latter, this kind of knowledge was just expensive enough to allow Kimiko to give her some advice. She even helped her comrade develop techniques of her own under the Nijū Kanmeki-ryu, maneuvers that allowed her to better cross that aforementioned distance and then forever eliminate it. It was nothing involving the use of a blade, unsurprisingly, but it was the best that she could do as Binita's teacher, and her friend has only become stronger because of it.

Kazuhiko most likely wasn't planning anything but his own execution for the time being. That much was made clear. For all Kimiko knew, the only thing that he was currently envisioning at this present time was his death by either the hands of the executioners of the Gotei 13 or her very own. Yet, even so, Kimiko couldn't help but find herself quickly succumbing to the instincts she has developed over the course of the last few years as a teacher of martial arts. As both her superior in rank within the ranks of the Shinigami, and as a fellow martial artist, she felt the same natural need that she felt whenever she beat anyone in a spar or even a proper battle. She felt that same instinct, that same urge to guide, to help and to nurture, all of it added right on top the feelings she was already feeling right at this point in time. At first, she tried to resist this need, especially once she saw her Inner Hollow's amused smile beam from where she stood by the officers' ongoing duel. After a time, however, she couldn't resist anymore, and so, she allowed herself to be consumed by it.

Observations would start flowing in just about right after she had made up her mind. Already, she could tell that the medic more so a boxer than anything else. More specifically, he was a boxer who appeared to prioritize the use of swaying maneuvers and sharp footwork in order to mitigate the damage he receives and land hits when his opponent least expect them. Kimiko wasn't quite sure of how she could call this style, but either way, she appreciated its intricacies as well as its technicalities, if only because it allowed Kazuhiko to create a way for him to survive her onslaught. She had a hunch that, if he wouldn't have been using this fighting style right then and there, he would have had a harder time dealing with the might of her blades. Hell, she could even somewhat compare it to her own style, given that they both seemed to properly use the concept of momentum and to apply it appropriately, and so, she could very much see the potential in this style.

Unfortunately, despite its advantages, the Captain could also see that it had many disadvantages. For one, it appeared to be incomplete. Of course, she hadn't seen the entire thing in action just yet, but something about the way the man moved felt off to her, like there was something missing that could allow him to better take advantage of this present fight. Then, there was his speed. From what Kimiko could understand, it appeared as though this style was allowing him to move faster than usual, which was all well and good. From the perspective of the inexperienced, it could even be said that he had outright breached his natural limiter, so to speak. However, this speed he had now reached was not fast enough. It could not allow it to be a threat quite just yet for a warrior of her caliber. There was simply no way, not for the time being. Thus, in her eyes, this rendered Kazuhiko stuck with what appeared to be a crutch that was going to severely hinder him over the course of time.

That was an incredibly-harsh analysis. Kimiko knew that, and quite frankly, she wasn't sure she wanted to shoot Kazuhiko down by telling all of this to him once this is all over. In times like these, he will need positivity and stability, not shame and self-doubt. However, it was also during times like these that he would need these kinds of advice. If he really is a Vizard, then only strength will allow him to do battle with the being, both in the purest physical sense and in the more psychological sense. He will need to practice to become a better warrior. He will need to push himself everyday, train every fiber of his being, and bring his body and soul right past their limits over and over again without stop right up until he becomes the strongest being he could ever become. If he doesn't do that or even so much as attempt to do that, his Inner Hollow will swallow him whole, and once that happens, not even Kimiko herself knows what will happen then.

In a way, it could be said that this was what brought Kimiko onward towards Kazuhiko, and what allowed her to swing those blades of hers down onto him. It could be said that this will to help him, to guide him towards victory, to allow him to strive to become the greatest thing he could become in spite of his condition was what permitted her to even think about causing him harm in this moment. She doubted that he was going to understand this in the moment; frankly, she was certain that she was going to need to explain a few things to him after all of this is over. However, here on this mountain located far away from all, she could bring him the pain he needed to rid himself of this need to bring himself to the slaughter, grant him the strength to make a new decision, and then allow him to understand what was going to happen next from this point in. If that somehow cannot be done... then she supposed that she would've tried her best to save him.

Either way, for now, she focused on delivering her assault to the medic. Like many of the opponents she has faced before, the boxer was very quickly overwhelmed by her swordsmanship. In spite of his attempt to position himself away from one end of what had now become their arena, he was unable to properly defend himself against the first attack, causing some of his blood to be shed against the rocky grounds below their feet. Then, he found himself visibly taken aback by the constant spinning of the black blade, leaving him wide open for a second attack that sent a greater amount of his blood towards these aforementioned grounds. These were nothing more than the first few strikes of Kimiko's assaults, and yet already, he was left with a few cuts and a damaged vest that now left his chest uncovered. This was not the Captain's full strength, but once again, Kazuhiko would be given a chance to understand how the potential outcome fo this fight was going to look like if this continued, and it was most definitely not going to be pretty.

Nevertheless, he remained standing. Despite the cuts, the pain, and the overwhelming of his senses and stamina, he was able to remain on his feet and stand before the Captain. For that, the superior officer rewarded him with a pause. With her scarlet eyes still fixated onto him, the woman would slowly straighten her body, holding onto her unsheathed blades with firm grips as her spiritual energy continued to press against the medic. If he had his eyes open, the young man would have most likely been able to compare her to something akin to a wild predator about to strike at its prey. Then, with shocking speed, she would spin the both of the blades again, doing so very closely to Kazuhiko to deliberately overwhelm him once again, right before she threw them both right into their scabbards. This abrupt process would be followed by nothing, or rather, the pause that Kazuhiko deserved for simply standing. It allowed him to rest, to think about what to do next...

... but in spite of doing nothing, Kimiko's spiritual energy remained. No, not just her energy: her presence. Even as she stood still and did nothing at all, the medic would be able to feel her. He would get a grasp of her focus, of her intent, of her will. However, most importantly, he would be able to witness yet another rush of adrenaline within her veins. It happened as she saw her again. Again, the beast stood there, positioned so that her figure was shadowed by the evening sun which glowed behind her back. However, this time, she remained with her disfigured expression. Her face had by now contorted into an inhuman farce, the kind Kimiko often saw during the many nightmares she has suffered from her. The Shinigami disliked it. The Inner Hollow loved it. It was only made even more apparent as her eyes continued to distend beyond her face like a knife through butter, and as the teeth of her smile beamed brightly in the dark.

G I V E .  H I M .  W H A T .  H E .  W A N T S .

G I V E .  H I M .  W H A T .  H E .  W A N T S .

G I V E .  H I M .  W H A T .  H E .  W A N T S .

The Captain's ears rang after she heard that voice. It was so unbelievably loud that it had almost completely ridden it of her senses. Her hands shook from the bestial power and fear she felt coursing through her mind. Her breath accelerated as she attempted to control herself, and her pained heart boomed and boomed without stop. It hurt. It was like the words were being seared into her brain, her bones, her muscles, her skin, everything. Somehow, however, this was not the worst part. No, the worst was the creature's touch against her soul. She wanted to take control and to forcibly lay waste to Kazuhiko to force that damned thing out of him. She wanted to play with it, to beat it up, to dominate it. Once again, it took every inch of Kimiko's willpower to resist this horrible, terrible assault. Should she have been weaker... she feared that she would have already attempted to kill the young man and throw his corpse down the mountain.

Kazuhiko would not see the Inner Hollow nor hear what she was saying to Kimiko, but he would most definitely be able to see what she was going through. He would also be able to feel the sudden coldness attached to the spiritual energy pressing against him, the dark aura that suddenly somewhat surrounded her. Then, eventually and without warning... he would see Kimiko suddenly let out another war cry - one that was much louder in comparison to the former she had unleashed at the beginning of her assault - before gripping hard onto her blades and unsheathing them with vicious speed in a twin Iaijutsu slash directed towards his chest once again. But she would not be done at that point. Right as the execution of the technique would come to its end, she would use the momentum left by her blades upon the end of their launch to find herself hovering over his smaller frame... then descend upon him with fangs at the ready.

In a display of uncontrollable violence, she would attempt to strike at the medic again and again and again at a Speed of 700. She would use her momentum to maintain an unending assault composed of several swings and simpler Iaijutsu strikes, with each separated by the merciless spinning of her blades. As she attacked, she would hear her Zanpakuto spirits' words reach out to her as they attempted to quieten the Inner Hollow, and in a way, they would almost be successful, as she would have the strength to resist the urge to fall right in front of Kazuhiko. However, her assault was still unprecedented, still almost out-of-control. All of this, truly, was the beast's fault. It was her fault that she was turning into something unsightly and unbecoming. Yet the responsibility of remaining whole was hers and hers alone. It was twisted of her think this way... but Kazuhiko needed to understand that too. Oh... he absolutely needed to.

He needed to know what awaited him, what kind of hell he would have to experience from this point on.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reiatsu: 6950/7000}
Technique Name: Iaijutsu (居合術, "Sudden Strike Technique")

Class: 4

Technique Type: General Physical Technique

Technique Element: None

Usable by: Any

Technique Description and Effects

The user of this technique draws their sword and strikes with one fluid, lightning-fast motion. This technique can easily catch an unprepared opponent off-guard. This attack is made at 2x the user's Speed, or at a speed of 600 (whichever is faster). Due to the sudden nature of this attack, characters with less than 200 Instinct are caught completely flat-footed and unable to react to this attack, unless they meet one of the alternative requirements (see drawbacks below).

Except where noted, this is otherwise an ordinary melee strike and has no reiatsu cost. Proficiency with this technique allows the user to immediately sheathe their weapon after making their attack.

Mastery of this technique allows for it to be combined with Shunpo to draw, strike, and sheathe the weapon in the blink of an eye. This variant costs 50 reiatsu to perform, and gains the benefits of a 3x Speed Boost (instead of the usual 2x). This variant is imperceptible to characters with less than 200 Senses. Characters with 200+ Senses detect a blur of movement from the user but may not be able to react to the attack unless they have 200+ Instinct and/or one of the benefits listed in drawbacks below.

How to use technique

Simply draw your weapon and strike in a single fluid motion.

Drawback

This technique rarely works more than once per thread, as any opponent who witnesses this technique being used can react to it normally (regardless of Instinct). Even against aware opponents, this attack retains its speed however and should not be underestimated.

In addition, characters who know this technique or have Battle Analysis of 2 (or above) can easily identify the ready stances used in this technique and predict the user's intent. Such characters are never caught off-guard by this attack but will still need to react to its incredible speed.

This technique can only be used with a sheathed sword. In order to use this technique more than once during a single thread, the user must sheathe their weapon prior to using this technique again. This technique requires 2 SkP in Weapons (Sword) in order to be used, and 3 SkP to be mastered.

Made by: Kerrigan

Reserved? : No

[Satoshi Kazuhiko]

Inaction. That's certainly how he probably appeared. Overwhelmed and overpowered. Kimiko's slashes had been consistently hitting home and biting into his flesh. His vest was in tatters... At least the parts of it that hadn't been caught by the wind and whipped off the mountain. His brown skin was painted red as blood ran from the smooth furrows of Kimiko's light-speed slashes. Eventually, he'd be painted crimson from head to toe.

But it wasn't inaction. He was studying her. He understood her more and more with every passing second. Things about -herself- that she didn't understand. Her rhythm. Her tells. Hers was a masterful technique. Something practiced thousands and thousands of times. Precise. But precision made for better predictability. Her angles didn't waver the way someone who was learning an ability might. And on top of that, her Iaijustsu attacks relied on the same empowerment that a step tech did. They -were- a step tech, just delivered with blades rather than boots.

There was no trick to her martial arts. They were as honest as they were overwhelming. At least not yet. And if there was anything he specialized in dealing with, it was bisecting honest angles! He'd spent a moment focusing on analysis instead of counter-attack... And now he was confident he had a game plan. The next time she attacked he would get there first. He'd show her his ability to predict the future!

He drew in a breath as Kimiko straightened her back. His lungs filled. His body was flooded with fresh reiatsu, delivered to his muscles like oxygen in a human. Neither one would take another breath before the next strike was delivered. A pause for another breath by either of them would result in failure... It was now a shoot-out!

Kimiko had been doing her part to analyze Kazuhiko as well, but she hadn't fully assessed his strange ability. She had been put under the impression that he was able to move faster than he could. He could nearly keep up with her. But that was because he was moving before her, rather than in sync. He was stealing time. And as fast as she was, his head-starts were catching up with her! Additionally, she wasn't aware that he could see her clearer with his eyes closed than with them open. He could trace the lines of her face. The movement of every individual eyelash. Her predatory intent was clear. She wasn't pausing. She was preparing. Just like him.

But then something curious happened. The disciplined Captain of the Eleventh Division began to lose her precision. Her breathing became erratic. Her veins filled with adrenaline. A fear response occurred as stranger chemicals filled her brain. She was hallucinating again. She was wide open. He could strike and she might never notice... But he didn't. He waited. It wasn't that he didn't want to win. It was that he didn't want to have it be like -this-. Perhaps that was naive of him. But he could tell that she was in pain, and he would never be the sort of man to take advantage of someone in pain!

The air around them shifted. Her aura changed. It got heavier. Darker. It reminded him of something... Resonated within him. But he couldn't place his finger on it. It didn't matter. He felt the change in her body before she'd even started her scream! It was coming! Her blades flashed out of their scabbards. They were impossible to dodge, again. Slower than the last, but still too fast.

He moved his body, rolling with the slashes to reduce their depth [str of 500 for the purposes of damage abosrption from Rukongai Roll]! And she followed the momentum like he'd presumed she would! Up into the air! Again... Too fast to react to. This wasn't the moment! Her slashes came down, cutting another pair of furrows across his chest! He bit back a scream and managed to keep from flinching! Patience... It would come... It would come... She spun her blades next to his ears. It was here!

"SORRRYAAAA!" He screamed and was moving by the time the tips of her swords crossed the thresholds of her scabbards! He stepped in and thrust both of his hands out! His left-hand palm out to brace against the base of the hilt across from it! And his right hand punching at the hilt of her other zanpakutou!

This was the most offensive form of Beast King Boxing that he'd developed. A technique that used what he'd learned from an opponent's movements and the predictable nature of step techniques. A step technique used the shortest route from point A to point B. Any deviation in that motion caused the maneuver to fail. A powerful ability, but with a glaring weakness. And these Iaijutsu techniques were just that. Step-tech slashes! Beyond that, they required a loading phase, like a bow being strung. Slow to start, impossibly fast to execute.

This was his Sucker Punch! And if it was successful he would pin both of Kimiko's weapons within their scabbards! As fast as they might be, they would be entirely neutralized if she couldn't outmuscle him to draw them! And further, if his right fist managed to strike the hilt of her Zanpakutou she would feel a strange sensation! As if a spirit had walked through her. As his Shikai's strange ability didn't need to simply connect with a person's body. But anything connected to their soul... Such as a Shinigami's Zanpakutou!

He'd already seen Kimiko alter her path mid-attack. But she'd utilized a motion already in action to do it. Here, she was flat-footed. If she chose to use a step-tech to dodge, she would feel that strange, chilled sensation at the end of her movement instead.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Trackers}
Rukongai Roll - 95% of Senses (75% + 20%(4 turns))
Previous Total Reiatsu: 5700/6000
Reiatsu Spent:
100 - Rukongai Roll
200 - Class 3 Sucker Punch
Reiatsu Total 5400/6000
[Techniques]

SPOILER: Click to show

{The Rukongai Roll}
Technique Name: Beast King Boxing - The Rukongai Roll

Technique Class: 3

Technique Type: General Physical, Sensory

Usable By: All

Technique Element: N/A

Technique Cost: 100 Reiatsu a post.

Description: In order to use the Rukongai Roll the user must meet these qualifications at time of implementation:

Martial Skill >2
Sensory >450
Instinct >300

The user closes their eyes, blocking out this very important sense in order to harmonize with the opponent. Because of this, the technique can only be used when the opponent is within 10 meters. This is expanded to 20 meters at 600 Sensory, 30 meters at 900 sensory, and 50 meters at 1200 sensory.

The user focuses on their senses and reads their opponent's movements in advance. The sound of their heartbeat. The contracting of their muscles. The subtle changes in their body chemistry are all notes used to predict the opponent's attacks. And the longer the user is in combat with their opponent, the more they begin to understand them.

While active, the user is able to replace their Speed with their Sensory stat for the purposes of dodging attacks by opponents within their range. In the event that they are unable to dodge, they are able to add their instinct to their strength for the purpose of suffering the hit. This is because they are slipping the attack and moving with it, rather than against it.

The Rukongai Roll utilizes 75% of the user's Senses. This increases by 5% per post of combat within the same instance of combat, up to a maximum of 125% as the user becomes more accustomed to their opponent's movements.

How to Use: The Rukongai Roll is a defensive form that utilizes advanced sensory and instinct to allow the user to defend themself against an opponent once in close. This technique utilizes footwork and body movement to steal the momentum and threat away from an opponent's attacks by harmonizing with them.

In order to use the Rukongai Roll, the user must close off one of their most important senses. Their eyes. However, with enough sensory and fighting knowledge, they are able to read their opponent and react before their opponent strikes. This form is not the same as dodging, but rather slipping attacks. An attack that lands can be rendered completely harmless. But in the event that it isn't, its impact is mitigated by going with the flow of the attack and potentially leaving the opponent open for a bad trade!

This stance is very specific and identifiable. The user stands with their lead arm in front of their torso, in the center of their abdomen. Their off-hand stays up by their face. And lastly, their lead shoulder is tucked with a lean, serving as another barrier point.

Drawbacks: The user must close their eyes to avoid sensory overload. The user must pay 100 Reiatsu a post. This technique also has an identifiable stance.

Reserved?: Yes, Satoshi Kazuhiko.

Made By: Sucker Punch

SPOILER: Click to show

{ Beast King Boxing - The Sucker Punch}
Beast King Boxing - The Sucker Punch

Technique Class: 4-1

Technique Type: General Physical, Sensory

Usable By: All

Technique Element: N/A

Technique Cost: Variable based on class.

Description: In order to use The Sucker Punch the user must meet these qualifications at the time of implementation:

Battle Analysis >2
Martial Skill >2
Sensory >450
Instinct >300

This technique is a punch using the intense predictive capabilities of high sensory and to preempt an opponent's dodge and throw an attack right in the path of the opponent's intended escape route, even before they've made it! If an opponent attempts to step tech, they will be surprised to find, after they have escaped, that the technique has still landed, as it occurred before the step was taken! This attack takes advantage of the predictive nature of step techs. If the opponent attempts to dodge, weave, or otherwise redirect the punch without a step tech, their speed is calculated as such based on class that the tech is used at:

Class 4, treated as 25% lower; Cost 150 Reiatsu.
Class 3, treated as 33% lower; Cost 200 Reiatsu.
Class 2, treated as 50% lower; Cost 300 Reiatsu.
Class 1, treated as 75% lower; Cost 400 Reiatsu.

This punch is thrown at the user's normal speed. It is not enhanced in any meaningful way. It is a punch made with the foresight gleaned from the advanced application of information gained from high-end sensory combined with the high-end deductive power of instinct.

How to Use: The Sucker Punch is a whip-like flicker jab thrown from the lead fist of the user. The odd-angled nature of the punch enables the user to curve it into the path of an opponent who is intent on swaying out of the way. This makes the blow more difficult to dodge, as it is aiming to land in a spot that the user's deductive reasoning knew the opponent would be in, rather than the spot they were in when the attack was thrown! This level of deductive prediction can appear to others as clairvoyance. But the reality is... He simply -knew- you would step to the right based on the tension in your muscles and the changes in your internal chemistry.

Drawbacks: This technique requires heavy stat and skill investment to pull off. Beyond that, a reiatsu cost is imposed on the punch to account for supernatural foresight. Lastly, this punch has no additional properties other than striking preemptive to step-techs and being difficult to dodge naturally. It does not have any additional power. And it may be blocked as normal.

This technique is also unable to be combined with other techniques at this stage. It requires intense focus to pull off.

Reserved?: Yes, Satoshi Kazuhiko.

Made By: Sucker Punch

[Nakajima Kimiko]

Honesty. Yes, Kazuhiko was indeed looking towards the right way when he found himself analyzing Kimiko's swordsmanship. Aside from perhaps the spinning of the blades which separated each one of her strikes, there wasn't anything that was inherently complicated or complex about how said strikes were delivered. The way she returned her blades to their scabbards was most definitely a great representation of her skills, that was true... but the strikes themselves were indeed simple. The only difference which separated them from the kinds of slashes that were typically executed by a more novice follower of the Nijū Kanmeki-ryu was simply the level of expertise, which was unsurprisingly to be expected; after all, it would have been quite strange to see one of the Captain of the Gotei 13 be somehow incapable of wielding a sword properly in spite of their global reputation as a master of the blade throughout Seireitei and Rukongai alike.

But there was one thing about this entire analysis that the young man assumed wrongly during his analysis. While it was true that a few of her Iaijutsu strikes were indeed powered by spiritual energy to achieve an effect that would typically be witnessed during the execution of Hohō techniques, these strikes were exceptions, not the norm. They were techniques that Kimiko preferred to execute only when required. No, the vast majority of her strikes were nothing more than the kind that could have been executed by a proper master of the art. It was swordsmanship in its purest form: innate accuracy, extreme speed, and a will which possessed both enough strength and resolve to inflict them both upon the target with the least amount of hesitation as possible. And perhaps as the cherry on top, it was the perfect application of this purest swordsmanship with the aid of two separate swords, all with minimal inquiries or self-injuries.

Of course, this was only but a facet of the concept of swordsmanship. As with all manners of martial arts, there are many who lived and have lived in this world who are capable of wielding their blades in their own way, one which most likely can very much differ greatly from Kimiko's. However, this fact did not detract from the purity of her style and her technique. The lack of impurities in her movement and swings, the immaculate footwork that allows her to deliver these two things while dodging incoming attacks, the trust in her own precision as she returns the blades to their scabbards so expertly... These are the qualities of a woman who has trained tirelessly to perfect a single move for years, if not entire decades. For all Kazuhiko knew, she most likely executed this very same move - the Iaijutsu technique - ten thousand times, if not a hundred thousand times. Perhaps she has even executed it for hundreds of thousands of times... or even a million times. Frankly, she herself has lost count.

There was no greater proof of this higher level of swordsmanship than the sudden onslaught that the Captain suddenly delivered to Kazuhiko. In an instant, she introduced it with a stronger Iaijutsu slash that bit onto the medic's skin and cut it right open once more, leaving him with yet even greater bleeding wounds, and then she would go on to use the momentum left by that same attack to deliver further slashes. Superhuman speed, superhuman precision, superhuman expertise, all combined into one. As to be expected, despite the ample growth of his own understanding of Kimiko's style, the man found himself unable to respond to any of the slashes again. Once again, even though he was using his higher cognitive abilities, the velocity at which these attacks were thrown proved to simply be too much for him. Such was the fate of those who were innately perceptive of incoming threats, but unfortunately too slow to properly prevent them.

Yet, in this moment, the Third Seat of the Fourth Division would realize yet another characteristic of Kimiko's swordsmanship. It was true that it was formidable. There was nothing that could take that away from it. However, while it was formidable, there was something that it unfortunately shared with all formidable things: redundancy. Indeed, try as she might, there was a rhythm to the unending assault, a tempo to the overwhelming attack and ridiculous willpower. She may change the way she launches her blade towards her target, and she may even create little gaps between her strikes in order to confuse her opponent. Hell, she may even intimidate as hard as she possibly could with those terrible screams of her. However, in the end, the offensive perfection of the Iaijutsu technique ironically left her with the weakness of repetition all the same... a weakness that created an opportunity that Kazuhiko was wise enough to wait for, and then exploit.

It happened in the middle of her onslaught. By then, the Captain's only goal had somewhat changed. She still wanted Kazuhiko to participate in this fight, but at the same time, she admittedly also wanted to use this fight as a distraction from the works of her Inner Hollow. In so doing, she had emboldened her will and had allowed herself to be somewhat consumed by her rage, if only for a limited amount of time. Perhaps, that way, the creature could stop tormenting her for at least a minute or two. This focus on her anger and fury, this wrath that she had initially reserved only for the system who dared to judge Kazuhiko as something whose only use was to die, had somewhat ridden her of her precision and of her focus. Thus, she did not see that the young man before him was simply bidding his time as she received attack after attack. She did not see him prepare himself to take that aforementioned opportunity nor anticipate where this would decision of his would take them both.

And so, all suddenly, the swordswoman's assault would be abruptly brought to a halt. With widened eyes, she would look down towards the man in astonishment as he suddenly grabbed onto her hilts right after she returned them to their scabbards after another spin. She had been caught completely flat-footed, by surprise, and now, she was stuck. Surprised, she would find herself staring at the man for a few seconds, taken aback by the fact that Kazuhiko had even so much as attempted to do something so ballsy after having taken so much damage. However, eventually, this slight admiration of hers would turn into something that was less pleasant. She could already feel it gnaw at her mind, at her spirit, all the while her Inner Hollow continued to stand there with a pleased smile that betrayed her knowledge of the one thing responsible for this feeling. It was her instincts, of course her bestial sense that was reminding her that she had been driven into a corner and was now quite literally trapped.

It did not take long for Kimiko to slowly feel a sense of urgency begin to rise up in her system. She could feel every bit of hair on her body rise right up and her teeth clench against one another as her lips made way, causing her to bare them at Kazuhiko. Most importantly, however, she felt a chill run down her spine. It wasn't entirely unlike the one she experienced whenever she was in danger... but it was different, unnatural. This time, the chill felt soul-piercing, glacial, as though something was passing right through her body. There was something different that she could not quite describe. What was that about? Was this her instinct at work once again? Was it, once more, the work of her Inner Hollow? Or... Or was it Kazuhiko? She hadn't seen what this prosthesis of his could accomplish for him thus far, after all... Maybe this was some kind of ability she wasn't aware of? Some kind of subtle ability that could only be felt and not seen?

Again, almost like clockwork, the questions came and she received no answers for any one of them. Again, her curiosity was not rewarded, and she was left nothing for it other than that terrible, horrible feeling going right through her. This lack would cause her inaction to eventually turn into something akin to a struggle. Clenching her teeth, Kimiko would first attempt to overpower Kazuhiko by pulling Shizukakane and Taishokukane out of their scabbards right against the young man's hands. At first, it appeared to work, but the longer it went on, the further the Captain felt that horrible feeling. She needed to do something! Anything! Right here, right now, before whatever was happening to her was going to swallow her whole! Eventually, as she was further subjected to this terrible feeling of extreme urgency, she would begin to let out low groans of effort before, without warning, she would decide to finally answer to Kazuhiko's efforts.

With an abrupt blast of pressure that descended right onto their position, spiritual energy would begin to rise around Kimiko. It roared loudly, pressing itself down onto Kazuhiko without mercy, and then, it would begin to hum... from her right leg. In about a second or so, this humming would then lead into a full-fledged stream of red hot energy covering her limb. Then, as the energy became akin to an aura, she would find herself raising her right foot right before launching it straight into the officer's stomach. The shock would be instantaneous, as all so suddenly, he would be subjected to a a kick that was empowered not by her own strength, but rather her entire ridiculous spiritual strength, more precisely 700 Spiritual Pressure. "RAAAH!" She shouted throughout the duration of the kick, a terrible scream that resonated throughout the entire area that could easily be translated to a very clear "get the hell off of me!"

This was going to hurt, that much Kimiko could tell. Not everyone could survive the brunt of her spiritual strength, let alone her spiritual pressure... but at the very least, it was going to make that dreadful feeling stop right then and there. At the very least, she hoped it would.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reiatsu: 5750/5950}
Technique Name: Cutback: Kakudai (減らす: 添加, "Cutback: Extension")

Technique Type: Cutback | Weapon Range Buff

Technique Element: None

Usable by: All races

Class: 4

Technique Reiatsu Cost: 200

Technique Description and Effects

An extension of a weapon's reach. The user focuses their spiritual pressure onto a particular section of their body or an object that they are currently holding onto. This process causes the formation of an extension of energy around the target which lasts for three posts. How far this extension goes is delimited by the user's proficiency in this technique, as can be seen below:

• Mastered: 3x
  
• Proficient: 2x
  
• Learned: 1.5x
  

Depending on what has been extended, the user can use melee techniques that are unusable in hand-to-hand combat with the aid of Cutback: Kakudai, such as sword techniques. Should it be necessary, this additional range of the target can be rendered smaller by a Proficient or Masterful user. For example, a Master of this technique can decide to extend their weapon only by 150% instead of 300% when confronting an enemy in a small location.


Drawbacks & Weaknesses

All attacks delivered by a target extended by this technique is to be treated as only using Spiritual Pressure as their Offensive Stat. No weapons which typically exclusively relies upon the Strength or the Reiatsu Strength of the user may be an exception to that rule. In other words, though this technique can allow those of lesser physical strength to be able to wield their weapon with greater power without releasing it, it may lead to a negative outcome to others who instead have lesser Spiritual Pressure. The extension of one's reach, although impressive, can also lead to complications depending on where the user is actually fighting. Small, cramped spaces can lead a few to become stuck inside of surfaces they once didn't need to interact with at all, and they may also cause these few to suddenly collide into things that they originally would not have actually been required to deal with. 


Made by: Nakajima Kimiko

Reserved? : No

[Satoshi Kazuhiko]

Kazuhiko was leaning forward, his weight braced in his forearms as his palms were forced against the hilts of the Captain of Squad 11's swords! His eyes stayed closed, but they were tighter now, pinched in a wince. Sweat and blood mixed, running off of his body and dripping onto the stone between the two shinigami. His skin was marred with cuts and gashes. A criss-cross of crimson lacerations.

If he could get in close, he could take advantage of the gap in a sword's attack range. If he was patient, he could take advantage of the rhythm of her sheathing and unsheathing. He had endured the damage and the pain in order to claim this moment of triumph! He'd felt Hyaakujuunuou pulse against her. And he could tell that she was feeling the chill of its touch!

Kimiko had to abandon her blades for the moment. He heard her scream with effort! But even before that he felt her intention to attack! He felt the muscles in her lower body flex and prepare. She was going to kick him. And when she did, he would rip her swords from their sheaths and throw them off this accursed mountain! He could do this! He could win after all!

Her kick came! And Kazuhiko prepared to roll with it, just as he had her slashes! He'd take the attack and surprise her with disarmament! The blow struck home- A half second before he'd predicted! The weight of her foot buried itself in his guts, and he could feel that it wasn't right... The flesh of her extremity was too far away!

This was the result of a naive and desperate boy. And it exposed the weakness of his strange sensory technique. He never saw, or more accurately felt the spiritual extension of Kimiko's kick until it reached his physical body! His sensory aura allowed for incredible feats of deduction. But gave no such benefit to energy sensory. And with his eyes closed, any of the tell-tale visual signs that might have been there were also erased!

"BUEGH!!!!!"

The sound he made was somewhere between a cough and a scream. It was an animalistic squawk of pain and shock! The boy went rocketing away! His fingertips spasmed as they slid along the hilts of Kimiko's weapons... And away from them, with nothing to show for it!

He bounced. And then bounced again. And upon landing for the third time slid upon his left shoulder and hip! He slid until he neared the precipice of the mountaintop arena and stopped short only by divine intervention! His arms wrapped around his midsection as he coughed in an attempt to scream and kicked his feet in agony! Something was broken. Maybe many somethings. He couldn't tell... All he could do was choke and stomp his feet!

[Nakajima Kimiko]

There is a tendency amongst warriors that Kimiko has found herself noticing over the course of her career as an officer of the Gotei 13. That tendency was one that was quite easy to understand, and was thus quite easy to observe throughout the span of several battles. To put it bluntly... when it came down to the matter of delivering damage onto one of their opponents, warriors simply preferred to develop their ability to better deliver said damage. There were a number of ways for them to do so. Some - like the Captain of the Eleventh Division herself - preferred to perfect their skills in weaponized combat; meanwhile, others - such as Kuchiki Kyomei, a notable master of the spiritual arts - instead opted to increase their magical efficiency, namely by recalling as many spells as possible as well as the chants that came along with them. However, in the end, they all reached that very same goal, that very same objective of being capable of dealing as much damage as possible.

But every now and then, there came an exception. Every once in a while, perhaps even in a blue moon, a warrior would appear and openly declare his intention to stray away from that objective so as to instead pursue another path. That path was the one of non-violence, of impediment, of entrapment. They sought not to deal pain, but rather to prevent it, and so they consequently trained their body to achieve that goal as efficiently as possible. It could be said that, compared to those who wishes to solely focus on dealing as much damage as possible to their opponent, those who believe it best to seek the end of conflict through non-violent ways are more obstinate and determined. Such was proven by the many unconventional warriors who populated the Living World during the many last centuries that have passed over there. However, it could be said that at this very moment, within this very point in time, that there was no greater representation of this path than Kazuhiko himself.

Kimiko understood what he was trying to do. Frankly, even a monkey could see it. Even though she was deliberately showing off her killing intent and a will to execute him on the spot, even though she was trying her damnedest to tell the young man that she was going to bring an end to his life, the man was not attempting to fight back all that hard. Sure, there were times during which one could assume he somewhat did, and sure, one could also assume that this was not because he wasn't doing so, but rather because he couldn't do so, as Kimiko was simply too fast for him to be able to land an attack as safely as possible. In spite of this, none of the attacks he attempted to throw at her carried that aforementioned killing intent. No, instead, it carried something else. It carried something more peaceful, more resolute... something that her Inner Hollow found to be horribly amusing... and this was reflected in the way he tried so hard to contain her blades within their scabbards.

His efforts were commendable. Again, there was not a great amount of warriors who would be so bold as to rush into the fray that she had presented to him, and then proceed to quite literally dash into the right moment to grab at the blades responsible for the many wounds he now carried with him. Moreover, the fact that he was so brave to even attempt such a thing in the first place still pleased Kimiko greatly. However, quite unfortunately, that was what they were in the end of it all: an attempt. Those were nice from time to time, of course, but what was most important to them were not themselves, but rather their outcome, the result which they have produced in accordance to the risk taken to bring them into reality. Without a positive result, any attempt of any kind would be useless. Without a positive result... all that would remain would be the horrible risk that was taken, as proven time and time again by the dark creature which remained inside her heart.

The kick that Kazuhiko took straight to the gut was the result of his attempt to immobilize her. In his attempt to force her to stop relying on her blades, he forgot to take into account the possibility that she could fight without them, and so he paid the price for it. With clenched teeth, the Captain watched as the medic's body was sent flying away from her all across the arena only to bounce a few times against the rock of the mountaintop. No doubt, every bounce of his body caused him pain, something that was most definitely added on top of the pit that had now formed within his stomach. Eventually, the bouncing stopped, and soon enough, his body slid across the ice and stone right up until it remained fallen near the very edge of the arena. Out of everything that had just happened to him, one could say that was quite fortunate, given that if he would've slid any more so than he had, he would have fallen right down the mountain. With that said, that was just about the only positive aspect it all.

His agony was made almost immediately apparent to Kimiko. Appearing to be in utter shock, he laid there in his pain, visibly suffering immensely from the damage he had just received. At a glance, no one could really say what he specifically was going through, given that he was holding onto his chest and coughing like mad, but the swordswoman very much knew. When she kicked him, she felt multiple bones inside of his body break. She had felt several ribs break from the almighty spiritual force that had crashed right onto him, and there was probably a few more that must have been heavily damaged in the process too. All of that most likely was now causing him to suffer from internal bleeding... and then some. The fact that he was actually able to survive this hit was nothing short of exemplary, as any normal Human would have most likely instantly died from such a hit. Nevertheless, it was needless to say that that didn't change much in the grand scheme of things.

Should this have been a normal spar, Kimiko would have stopped it right then and there. Kazuhiko had just suffered a massive hit, and combined with his previous injuries, he was most likely not going to last for much longer. Yet, in this moment, she did not come to help him. Instead, she merely stood there and looked down upon him from afar, watching him quiver in pain as the sun in the distance slowly left the horizon. It was cruel. Again, that much she could not deny. However, she felt she needed to do this. He needed to understand that the path ahead was going to be difficult. It was going to be painful, hurtful, and difficult, for the Inner Hollow within was going to do everything in its power to kill him. To prevent that from happening, he didn't need to pacify it, befriend it, heal it, or whatever it is that he had decided to do as a medic... He needed to fight it. He needed to do battle with it in some degree, to prove to it that he was better than it. In other words, he needed to become a warrior... a warrior like Celes, like Camila... and like her.

Thus, patiently, she waited for the man to rise up. She would stand there beneath the terrible statue of the clay-made deity, breathing quietly as she quickly wrestled her emotions back into her control. She hadn't expected her Inner Hollow to be so active today, but perhaps it was for the best. Better to get used to her antics now than never, especially after the latest declaration has made to her. She would continue to wait for at least a minute or so, standing still as her scarlet eyes beamed in the dark. However, eventually, she would begin to realize that the man appeared to be blinded by his pain. He wasn't getting up. Not at a glance, at least. No, instead, he simply remained there, coughing and squirming like a wooden animal who was just ran over by a truck. This called for a solution. If he wasn't getting up on his own, then... she was going to make sure he was going to get up now, and then never fall down again, not even in front of his greatest fears.

With a frown, she would begin to walk towards him. Clack... clack... clack... Just like before, each of her steps resonated loudly across the arena. However, unlike before, they would stop properly without interruption, as Kimiko now found herself in the middle of the arena. There, she would look down upon Kazuhiko for a few more seconds... before suddenly, without warning, the sound of screeching metal beamed loudly in front of the wounded medic. It screamed as it tore through the air, echoing like the cries of a mad banshee as it left a great slice mark in the earth. The metallic noise would hum mercilessly as it remained in the air, leaving an ugly impression onto the serenity of the surrounding wind... right up until it was followed by a surge of energy which came from Kimiko's position. As the power surrounded her body, its own hum would overwhelm the sound of metal, and eventually, it would begin to almost sound like the growl of a beast. Then, after a swift breath...

"STAND UP!"

Two words. Two loud, powerful words. In that moment, right after Kimiko marked the earth and returned to her original position with two swift Shunpo jumps, those were what came out of her throat. The energy that came from them was akin to the energy she usually expelled while she trained with her students at Nijūkan, yet it somehow felt even more powerful in this moment. Perhaps it was because she cared. Perhaps it was because she truly wanted Kazuhiko to be better than this. Either way, the effect would be similar to the one the medic felt at the beginning of this battle, when Kimiko had introduced herself to him. He would feel his body suddenly take in the Captain's emotional power, feel it take over his senses, overwhelm him in his entirety, down to his core. It would be what he would need to overpower the pain and continue this battle, if only for a short while.

He would need it, for it was still very clear that Kimiko had no intentions to stop until midnight.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reiatsu: 5650/5950}
Technique Name: Shunpo (瞬歩, "Flash Steps") [x2]

Class: 7

Technique Type: Kidō

Technique Element: None

Technique Reiatsu Cost: 50/step

Technique Description and Effects

A movement technique that allows the user to move faster than the eye can follow. The focal point that determines the basis of this technique is speed. As speed is the main point of the technique, the method is best characterized by how fast one can get from Point A to Point B in the least amount of steps. Training and skill are what determines how fast a user of Shunpo can move. Those of little skill in the technique or those who haven't used it for an extended amount of time would obviously be out of practice, causing those individuals to be considerably slower. This requires the use of more steps to move the same distance and become tired more easily in a shorter amount of time. A single step magnifies speed for that step by ten times. Shunpo uses fifty Reiatsu per step. This one is automatically learned in the academy. All Shinigami know this when created. This technique does not take up a technique slot.

How to use technique

Focus of Reishi around the feet area and launch off into a single blurring step. It is not unlike teleportation in appearance, but it is simply extremely fast movement. It is often used to gain an edge in a single moment of combat or to dodge incoming attacks.

---

Technique Name: Akuma no Ishi (剃るかんめき, "Demon's Will")

Technique Type: Other | Strength of Will Buff

Technique Element: None

Usable by: All races

Class: 3

Technique Reiatsu Cost: N/A

Technique Description and Effects

The projection of one's own will to empower the hearts of others. The user channels the strength of their very soul within themselves before shouting it out, most typically either in a short inspirational speech or a motivational war cry. By accomplishing this, the user is capable of bringing forth the Strength of Will skill of all of their surrounding allies by one point for the next three posts, inspiring them to go further beyond towards victory even if such a thing may cost their lives. A master of this skill is said to have such a powerful will that they are able to instead bring the aforementioned skill of their allies up by two points.


Drawbacks & Weaknesses

As saddening as this may be to those who may be interested in learning this technique, not everyone is born with a powerful will. That is simply a natural, uncontested fact that cannot be refuted even by the greatest minds there is in this world. In so doing, it is not difficult to imagine that this technique will not always show any kind of positive effect onto the people surrounding them, especially if they are used by naturally-uninspiring individuals. In order to guarantee this technique's proper success, the user must possess a 2 in at least one of the following skills: Acting, Charisma, or Strength of Will. This technique can be executed by those who have a lesser version of these skills if they so will it; however, upon execution, there will be a 50% chance of this skill failing to provide any kind of inspiration to allies altogether.


Made by: Nakajima Kimiko

Reserved? : No

[Satoshi Kazuhiko]

Agony. That was what he felt. Intense, desperate agony! "Wakashu!" The voice boomed in his head. "Does it hurt, Wakashu?" The voice came again. A growl. Deep and proud. It was a voice he'd hardly heard since leaving Las Noches. Since Lagos' influence upon him had changed him so. But he had been with him the whole time. The metal fingers of his right arm pulled at the snow beneath them. "O-oyabin?"

"To think that it would take having your chest caved in to hear my song again. The youth of today are so stubborn." The growling voice carried with it a hint of amusement. "You're weak, Wakashu. Too weak to even hear the influence of the other. But you can finally hear me now, can't you?" The amusement melted away at the mention of the other. The unnamed. His inner hollow. "She's been changing you." He'd grown. He no longer needed his glasses. He'd lost his ability to heal. "I know, but what am I supposed to do about it?!"

"You want to change the world, Wakashu. But you won't accept change in yourself?" The voice's question was punctuated by roaring, raucous laughter. It synchronized with the sound of Kimiko's steel screeching and sparking along the stone. A hum was left in its wake. A dull, metallic thing. The laughter faded, as did his ability to hear Hyaakujuunuou was beginning to fade as Kimiko's aura overwhelmed him.
"Let them hear you roar, Wakashu! Until you can't anymore."

His ears were splitting and his world was static. A wave of Reiatsu flowed through him. Kimiko's empowering scream. The agony dulled. And he was on his feet. "ROAR!" But the second command came from within! Causing him to go from hunched over, to upright! His arms were thrown back as he let out a scream towards the moon!

"I WON'T JUST LET YOU KILL ME!!!"

He screamed, and with that scream came an eruption of his aura! A wave of Hyakujuunuou's ability. The Beast King's roar. It was a wave of invisible force that surged from him. It poured out, 100 meters in every direction! And everything it touched suffered the strange chilling effect that Kimiko had already experienced when he'd touched the hilts of her weapons!

And when it was over... He leaned back forward. His breathing was heavy. His body was stained red. Every panting intake of oxygen caused sharp pain as if a spear was being driven into his side. But if he could feel... He was still alive. And if he was alive, he could fight. He closed his eyes again. And balled up his fists. And retook his stance!

"Come on! I'm still standing! I can still fight!" He spoke his will into reality. Though it was still yet to be seen if that was true.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Trackers}
Rukongai Roll - 105% of Senses (75% + 30%(6 turns))
Previous Total Reiatsu: 5400/6000
Reiatsu Spent:
200 - Rukongai Roll x 2 turns
300 - Class 4 Beast King's Roar
Reiatsu Total 4900/6000
[Techniques]

SPOILER: Click to show

{Hyakujuunoou Houkou (Beast King's Roar)}

Kazuhiko gathers up his reiatsu, compressing it and welling it up! Before unleashing it in a silent roar of invisible reiatsu! The wave erupts from Kazuhiko with a speed of 800, but disrupts nothing! This wave has a radius of 100 meters per class of release (100 at 4, 200 at 3. Etc.).

Being caught within this wave causes the effect of Hyakujuunoou. This technique costs 300 Reiatsu to utilize.

SPOILER: Click to show

{The Rukongai Roll}
Technique Name: Beast King Boxing - The Rukongai Roll

Technique Class: 3

Technique Type: General Physical, Sensory

Usable By: All

Technique Element: N/A

Technique Cost: 100 Reiatsu a post.

Description: In order to use the Rukongai Roll the user must meet these qualifications at time of implementation:

Martial Skill >2
Sensory >450
Instinct >300

The user closes their eyes, blocking out this very important sense in order to harmonize with the opponent. Because of this, the technique can only be used when the opponent is within 10 meters. This is expanded to 20 meters at 600 Sensory, 30 meters at 900 sensory, and 50 meters at 1200 sensory.

The user focuses on their senses and reads their opponent's movements in advance. The sound of their heartbeat. The contracting of their muscles. The subtle changes in their body chemistry are all notes used to predict the opponent's attacks. And the longer the user is in combat with their opponent, the more they begin to understand them.

While active, the user is able to replace their Speed with their Sensory stat for the purposes of dodging attacks by opponents within their range. In the event that they are unable to dodge, they are able to add their instinct to their strength for the purpose of suffering the hit. This is because they are slipping the attack and moving with it, rather than against it.

The Rukongai Roll utilizes 75% of the user's Senses. This increases by 5% per post of combat within the same instance of combat, up to a maximum of 125% as the user becomes more accustomed to their opponent's movements.

How to Use: The Rukongai Roll is a defensive form that utilizes advanced sensory and instinct to allow the user to defend themself against an opponent once in close. This technique utilizes footwork and body movement to steal the momentum and threat away from an opponent's attacks by harmonizing with them.

In order to use the Rukongai Roll, the user must close off one of their most important senses. Their eyes. However, with enough sensory and fighting knowledge, they are able to read their opponent and react before their opponent strikes. This form is not the same as dodging, but rather slipping attacks. An attack that lands can be rendered completely harmless. But in the event that it isn't, its impact is mitigated by going with the flow of the attack and potentially leaving the opponent open for a bad trade!

This stance is very specific and identifiable. The user stands with their lead arm in front of their torso, in the center of their abdomen. Their off-hand stays up by their face. And lastly, their lead shoulder is tucked with a lean, serving as another barrier point.

Drawbacks: The user must close their eyes to avoid sensory overload. The user must pay 100 Reiatsu a post. This technique also has an identifiable stance.

Reserved?: Yes, Satoshi Kazuhiko.

Made By: Sucker Punch

SPOILER: Click to show

{ Beast King Boxing - The Sucker Punch}
Beast King Boxing - The Sucker Punch

Technique Class: 4-1

Technique Type: General Physical, Sensory

Usable By: All

Technique Element: N/A

Technique Cost: Variable based on class.

Description: In order to use The Sucker Punch the user must meet these qualifications at the time of implementation:

Battle Analysis >2
Martial Skill >2
Sensory >450
Instinct >300

This technique is a punch using the intense predictive capabilities of high sensory and to preempt an opponent's dodge and throw an attack right in the path of the opponent's intended escape route, even before they've made it! If an opponent attempts to step tech, they will be surprised to find, after they have escaped, that the technique has still landed, as it occurred before the step was taken! This attack takes advantage of the predictive nature of step techs. If the opponent attempts to dodge, weave, or otherwise redirect the punch without a step tech, their speed is calculated as such based on class that the tech is used at:

Class 4, treated as 25% lower; Cost 150 Reiatsu.
Class 3, treated as 33% lower; Cost 200 Reiatsu.
Class 2, treated as 50% lower; Cost 300 Reiatsu.
Class 1, treated as 75% lower; Cost 400 Reiatsu.

This punch is thrown at the user's normal speed. It is not enhanced in any meaningful way. It is a punch made with the foresight gleaned from the advanced application of information gained from high-end sensory combined with the high-end deductive power of instinct.

How to Use: The Sucker Punch is a whip-like flicker jab thrown from the lead fist of the user. The odd-angled nature of the punch enables the user to curve it into the path of an opponent who is intent on swaying out of the way. This makes the blow more difficult to dodge, as it is aiming to land in a spot that the user's deductive reasoning knew the opponent would be in, rather than the spot they were in when the attack was thrown! This level of deductive prediction can appear to others as clairvoyance. But the reality is... He simply -knew- you would step to the right based on the tension in your muscles and the changes in your internal chemistry.

Drawbacks: This technique requires heavy stat and skill investment to pull off. Beyond that, a reiatsu cost is imposed on the punch to account for supernatural foresight. Lastly, this punch has no additional properties other than striking preemptive to step-techs and being difficult to dodge naturally. It does not have any additional power. And it may be blocked as normal.

This technique is also unable to be combined with other techniques at this stage. It requires intense focus to pull off.

Reserved?: Yes, Satoshi Kazuhiko.

Made By: Sucker Punch

[Nakajima Kimiko]

The spiritual energy generated by the Captain of the Eleventh encrusted itself deep into the core of the mountain as it exploded from her body. Quickly, it became both embedded onto the rock and stone, and deeply integrated into the deepest earth, filling its many veins with a power beyond reason as the wind, in the meantime, let out a heavy and terrible cry. The mountain, solid and not quite conscious as it was meant to be, instinctively knew of that power's origin. It was the kind of utmost, overwhelming force that only a person such as Kimiko could generate. Truly, only a being such as she could, a being that was not simply a guardian of the heavenly realm, but rather a cross between one of those guardians and a being whose typical goal was to lay waste to that aforementioned realm. A being that - if he once again indeed spoke the truth when he declared himself to be as such - Kazuhiko also was, whether he wanted to be one or not.

With a fearsome roar, it kept arising from Kimiko's body after she released her earlier cry. It surrounded her like a coat of blood red, brimming with overwhelming power that threatened to destroy the entire arena as much of it rose in the air above her. It was a miracle that it and the clay deity that was observing this duel somehow all still stood completely intact. Unfortunately, in this moment, Kazuhiko would be able to witness this rise in energy with his eyes, as they had been opened by the pain he suffered. He would be able to witness it in its entirety. He could observe its incredible shape and density, its potency... and most importantly, its odd nature, as Kimiko made no attempts to hide her darkened nature to him any longer. He would be able to witness the darkness amidst the red, the eye-like designs within the sea of crimson which had formed above the dual swordswoman. He would be able to witness the one who observed them both... and perhaps realize a truth about the warrior who stood before him, even if she did not tell him directly.

A normal person, by then, should have completely crumbled. The dojo master, once again, obviously knew this. She had trained many students, after all, and she very much knew how far a person could go before being simply unable to go any further. But again, she knew that she couldn't rely on those standards with Kazuhiko, because they simply couldn't apply to him. If he was a Vizard, then he was thus endowed with a curse that could only be beaten by strength beyond comprehension. He needed that strength. Desperately so. If not, then he was going to die, and the beast within him was going to take his place so as to lay waste to everything that he currently cherished. It was going to try to kill Fuuko, then kill everyone he has met in the Fourth alongside whoever knows how many more Shinigami he has come to call friends. Then, if it is ever successful in its endeavors... it will attempt to lay waste to the entirety of Seireitei and maybe even the rest of the Soul Society.

With that said, for a brief moment, Kimiko believed that the man had reached his limit, and that the order that she had laid upon him had been for naught. As she stood there with her merciless energy continuing to rise from her body, he briefly remained there on the ground, still visibly stuck in the cycle of agony his injuries were forcing him to go through. But eventually, however, he would rise. Bit by bit, the pain would seemingly begin to leave him as he brought himself back up and eventually on his feet, all the while the swordswoman watched from the middle of the arena with an iron glare. She could feel it: the immense anticipation, the utter suspense... and the immeasurable hope that he held.  Yes, that's it, Kazu. Stand up,  she felt the words repeat in her head as that same hope filled her soul, the hope that the man could overcome the challenge that she had prepared for him, the ultimate test.  Prove to me that your life is worth fighting for.

And then, it came. This time, she wasn't the one who shouted. With great spiritual power, the young man let out a fearsome cry that was on par with hers. It boomed with its own energy, carrying with it a force that immediately battled against Kimiko's crimson aura. The Captain immediately felt the chilling effect from before affect her senses once again. She should have been bothered by this; in fact, she should have immediately gone forward and attempted to reduce Kazuhiko to a pulp for even trying to do this again. That was was what her beastly instincts demanded, after all. However, instead, she stayed put, letting her scarlet gaze look forward towards the young man. This time, it wasn't a glare, and even he would be able to notice that. No, this time, it was utter admiration, immediate respect, and utmost satisfaction. "Magnificent," she muttered upon witnessing the man's rising energy. This was what she wanted to see. This was exactly the outcome that she had been hoping for.

As their energy clashed against one another, Kimiko would continue to admire the man's sheer and indomitable efforts to overcome the pain that still continued to erupt from his body. For a split-second, she almost wanted to end the fight right then and there. The man had proven himself; thus, there was no need to continue. He had the strength to continue living, to continue fighting. Yet before she could make that decision, however, she understood that they still needed to go further. He may prove himself now, but for all she knew, this was just a fluke, an effect of her own energy. She wanted him to be unconditionally prepared for what was to come, and also to be made aware of what was going to happen next. As such, shortly after his energy finished spreading all across the surroundings of the mountain top, the superior officer would take a deep breath, then place her hands onto her scabbards. "Exactly! That is the meaning of fighting! Don't let anybody just kill you!" She shouted over the unconditional roar of his energy. "No matter the strength of your opponent!" 

Her thumbs then pushed against the guards of her blades, causing them to be slightly pushed out of their scabbards in the process. It didn't seem like much at first, but then, all so suddenly, Kazuhiko would be subjected to yet another rise in power as great swathes of white and black "ink" surged from their respectively-colored blades. Intensely, they rose all across the mountaintop, and eventually, they formed a field which surrounded the entirety of the arena. Their power was evidently such that, even from down below at the base of the mountain, the little beasts that roamed the land would be able to watch as the black and white battled with the pure white of the medic's energy, clashing in a cloud of power that once again almost seemed to threaten to lay waste to the entire mountain. But again, the clay deity watched from above, intact. It was not going to fall, and neither was this place going to. No, it was not, for this was to be the sanctuary of warriors unbound.

With her blades now Released from their constraints, Kimiko looked down upon Kazuhiko once again. Her crimson eyes seemed to almost beam with power as she did so, all the while the "ink" at times covered her body like a coat of pure, distilled energy. The effect was not legitimate, and yet at times, as the strange vapor passed by her face, it would seem as though her face was distorted into the serpentine visage of a proud, almighty dragon. Kazuhiko would not have the time to respond to any of this, as no sooner than a second later, the dojo master was answering his very own earlier promise, all the while his eyes were closed shut once again. "Excellent! Because this isn't over just yet!" Her voice boomed against the rising winds, echoing so loudly across the area that it even seemed to be dragged around by the very air itself. "Until midnight, we clash! Until midnight, we fight! Until midnight, we STRIVE until we can do it no longer!" 

After her words briefly came to a close, an unnatural silence came to Kimiko's ears. No longer could she hear the buzzing of their spiritual energies, or the great winds surrounding the mountaintop. Instead, there was only focus, concentration. It was all that remained to her in that moment. During this great focus, she saw her again, her Inner Hollow. This time, she remained away from the young man, standing unnaturally straight on one of the arena's nearby seats with that same wide smile. This time, she didn't try to force Kimiko to kill Kazuhiko. No. She had decided to do something better. Instead, she merely watched in anticipation. "Now I know why you didn't want to give him what he wanted, Kimiko-chan~. He's not like Celes. He's not even like Camila! No, he's... different~," her words would linger in the silence. "So interesting~."  

Kimiko wasn't quite sure if she wanted to know what she was talking about, but at this point, she deduced that it was simply better not to listen to her. So, with a great cry, she allowed for another burst of spiritual energy to erupt from her body in that moment, and then, with a powerful step, she rushed onward towards the young man.

Let this battle lead to a greater future.

---

Kimiko wasn't quite sure of how long the battle lasted. At least, not throughout the very first hours or so. In her eyes, as she struck Kazuhiko and she struck her with various blows, it was almost as if it had lasted for several more hours, or even a day. With impossible strength and energy, she did battle with the medic, shedding his blood onto the mountaintop and pushing him time and time again to go even further beyond. She sped by him, delivered several cuts onto him, and even threw him around a few times with the help of empowered limbs. However, in return, she began to receive a few blows, all of which were the result of the man simply understanding her fighting style further and further. She would receive a punch to the stomach that left her with great discomfort, and then a few others to her face and even her legs. None of them were as powerful as some of the hits she had received from Celes... but they were nevertheless hits that she received, and if there was one thing she wasn't good at, it was dealing with those.

But eventually, their duel came to an end. By the time it did, the clock was nearing midnight. Any of the clouds which had began to form over them had been parted away by their overwhelming energy, pushed away so far that they had no chance to ever reach them, and in so doing, the moon shone from above with a great, unmatched brilliance. When they stopped, Kimiko was standing beneath the statue of the deity once again. Under the moonlight, she remained, now sporting several bruises and even a few scars. More importantly, she looked exhausted, both physically and spiritually. It took a while for her to understand how the ability of Kazuhiko's Zanpakuto worked, but eventually, she had understood that it was somehow capable of draining the reiatsu within her body. She wasn't exactly sure of the specifics behind it, but by the time she had understood it, she had already lost a copious amount. It forced her to fight the man more seriously, or at least, even more seriously than she already was.

Unfortunately, the only solution that there was to prevent this ability was to kill the man. Well, that was what Kimiko had deduced. So, she had to endure his ability for quite some time. More fortunately, however, there was only so much Kazuhiko could do against her onslaught. All in all, the hours which followed their screams were nothing more than a number of repeats of their first sequences of their duel, and so the man received several more slashes that left him even more bloodied. In fact, the entire arena - even the statue to an extent - was almost bathed in their blood, and the medic's was very clearly the most prominent of the two fluids which occupied the nearby rock and stone. If it were not for the fact that the blood quickly froze over only a minute or so after it was spilled away from their bodies, this entire arena would have been nothing short of disgusting. Not that frozen blood was much cleaner in comparison, with all things considered.

Eventually, the clock would reach midnight, and by then, Kimiko would then decide to remain still, panting as she stood before the statue. Shaking, she would allow the pain of her opponent's blows to remain for what was probably the first time in years, which caused her to wince and clench her teeth against one another as hard as she could. Shizukakane's kind words would hum quietly in her mind, telling her that it was perhaps time for her to heal herself. However, she decided not to listen for the time being. Instead, she looked onward towards the young man in silence. Now that midnight had come... what was he going to do?

[Satoshi Kazuhiko]

It didn't make sense for him to still be able to move. His limbs felt like they were being controlled by strings, directed by a phantom puppeteer above them. His posture was off, leaning slightly forward in order to accommodate the injuries within his abdomen. But he was still standing. He was still able to fight.

His eyes opened as Kimiko spoke. His guard dropped due to exhaustion and curiosity. Her words were fierce and powerful, even without the infusion of her inspirational reiatsu. Further, he could swear that he had also felt something like a swell of pride from her as well. But there was something else as well. Something familiar. It resonated within him. It made him feel as though they were... Alike? He didn't have long to focus on it.

To an outside observer, the situation must have seemed ridiculous. Incoherent even. He was fighting for his life, with the reward of being arrested. His condition marked him for execution. Surely it seemed silly that he was fighting so hard. But none of those thoughts intervened as he brought his fists up and resumed his stance.

And then it arrived. The Captain of the 11th Division's Shikai. Her monochromatic blades left behind a flowing trail of like-colored ink. They were like the world's sharpest calligraphy brushes. The ink flowed out, surrounding them. Caging their battleground. Their black and white contesting with his own luminous, almost celestial white Reiatsu. She had been far more powerful, more skilled than him before. And now she could only be even more overwhelming!

What he saw should have terrified him. It should have reinforced his curious method of fighting with his eyes closed. But Kimiko had given him a directive. And per Kimiko's demand, he wouldn't let anyone kill him! No matter how strong they were. He would fight for his survival. If there was anything he had proven skilled at, it was surviving against those who should have overwhelmed him! From Lagos Obscuras to the King of Hueco Mundo Himself, Kohai! He'd survived!

He shut his eyes and braced himself for combat. He let his senses flow over the world around them and felt every terrible inch of Kimiko's power. And when she stepped towards him, he met her advance! He charged, his right arm braced in front of him prepared to clash with her swords! And he let out a scream as he did so. A scream to embolden himself and to ward away the pain in his body. He didn't have time for pain. He only had time for the fight!

"SORRRYAAAA!!"
______

His body was slumped against it. It bore his weight... Sacrilege, perhaps. But it was the only thing he could do to keep from falling. The bottom half of the clay guardian had gone red with blood. His blood, of course. The glow that ran through the channels of his right arm pulsed faintly, like a flashlight that needed to be banged against your palm to get its glow back. And his left hand ached in a way that his right couldn't anymore.

Kimiko had gotten wise to his ability. He had been a one-armed boxer. Impossibly skilled, she'd outmaneuvered him and stayed on his left side, forcing him to attack with his other fist. It was the first time he'd punched someone... Actually punched someone; in as long as he could remember. His left hand had been far less effective than his right. But by the end of the fight he had learned her movements so well that he had managed to land a number of strikes. Enough to add up. A feat in and of itself.

He had no illusions, however, that this feat had been aided by Kimiko abandoning her killing intent. She had landed many slashes upon him. And though he had lessened their impact with his defensive techniques, he also recognized that she had never once gone for a vital. That was the level of her expertise. That she could fight at the height of her technique while still pulling her metaphorical punches. He'd been totally outclassed.

The boy's head lulled back against the statue. The top of his head cradled in the clay guardian's hands. He'd abandoned his stance. He couldn't keep his arms up. His left had been dislocated at the shoulder. And with his strength waning, his prosthetic arm had fallen limp, like a discarded toy. His golden eyes were dulled to a color more akin to bronze as they perceived the moon at its zenith.

"Ha... Haha... Ha ha ha..." He laughed. Midnight. As his laugh faded he smiled... And then immediately went into a coughing fit. The rapid compression of his abdomen aggravated his internal injuries. The adrenaline in his blood had long faded. At rest, he felt every terrible wound he'd suffered throughout their nighttime battle. And yet... He laughed again.

"Ha ha ha!" This time he held his body in an attempt to contain the compressions. It didn't help the pain... But it somehow felt more joyous. "For a moment... I really thought you'd kill me." He said the words with a smile that didn't match the gravity still riding his lips. His cheeks were pale from blood loss, but they somehow still managed to glow. "But I was right about you." He continued. "I knew you were a good person."

"I... I'm sure I seemed suicidal." He drew in a deep agonizing breath. "Like I'm pleading for the easy way out." He closed his eyes. "But I want you to know that I'm asking you to arrest me not because I want to die. I want to live." He pulled his head out of the statue's hands to look directly at her. "It's because I want to protect everyone. From me. And I don't think I'm strong enough yet to do it alone. To help the thing inside of me... And I don't want it to hurt anyone. Not ever." His right arm moved to hover over his heart. Rickety and slow. But it was something that his left couldn't manage at all anymore.

"I know it seems stupid. To say that I want to live, but to ask to be arrested for being a Vizard. I know the penalty that comes with that, as well as you do." He looked back up to the sea of stars above them. "I believe that the cruelty that exists within our system is just waiting for someone to change it." His smile never wavered. "I believe in the good in this world. There's another way. I know it!"

"I believe in Soul Society!"

[Nakajima Kimiko]

No more strength remained in Kazuhiko. His arms had been disabled, leaving him unable to rely upon them in order to attack, and the blood that he had lost had left him tired and weak. There was also the pain, of course, from the many cuts he received, and from the internal injuries that still ached beneath his skin. Combined into one, they made for a cocktail that effectively rendered the medic quite simply incapable of continuing to fight. But in spite of all of this, he somehow lived. Despite of all of this, he, a simple medical officer who could have barely been called a warrior up until this point, remained not only afloat, but also conscious. It was the work of an indomitable and unflinching will, paired with the emotions of a commander who ordered him to remain on his feet. It was needless to say that there wasn't a many people in this world - or even the other worlds, for that matter - who could accomplish such a feat, let alone not collapse right then and there.

The clay deity held him with no hesitation. From above its towering figure, its dead gaze watched without any signs of life, ever-so-judging, ever-so-damning as one of his many hands held onto the young man. It observed the lower officer's weakening body, and then it observed Kimiko as she stood from afar, watching it all with that same iron gaze. Over there, the swordswoman remained silent as she remained beneath the moon above, panting quietly as blood continued to slowly trickle down the wounds she had received from the medic. Her blades hummed quietly in their scabbards, still allowing the great "ink" that they naturally generated to flow all around the arena. As time passed, however, the trails of drawn energy would slowly become more and more transparent, losing their opacity. It was clear: the two Zanpakuto were nearing the end of their Release. Not that it mattered anymore, really. Not to Kimiko, and especially not to Kazuhiko.

Now that midnight had arrived, the woman was able to reach a conclusion. If she referred herself to the rules she had created for this duel, then she had won. The reason why she was able to deduce as such was rather simple, all things considered: the man never had the chance to win against her. Not physically, at the very least. As a pure warrior, she had more experience than him in the art of battle, and in so doing, no matter how powerful he may have been with those fists of his, he never would have won. Unsurprisingly, this was yet another point that she had wanted the medic to understand: that there was no way for him to get out of his predicament solely with the skills of a warrior. Thus, in her conclusion, she also referred herself to other rules, the ones that were left unwritten. If she looked on over from their perspective, as invisible as they may have been to those that were unaware of their existence... the answer was obvious. To put it bluntly, Kazuhiko had won. In every sense of the word.

Kimiko would not say anything right away. After all that's happened, she wanted to hear what the medic thought about all of this, or at least she wanted to hear to hear him ask a few questions. She was expecting them, and this time, she was going to answer them, only because she could. However, a collection of questions was not what the Captain received. Instead, it was laughter, then a kind of speech. Quietly, she would find herself listening to his words and his compliments. She would take in his explanation, his reaffirmed will to live, but also to be be imprisoned, and his insistence on protecting the world for himself. Most importantly, she would note his understanding of what awaited him beyond the imprisonment, but also his belief that the Soul Society would eventually find a way to eliminate the cruelty that lies within its system. She would listen to it all, take it all in, and in so doing, she would quietly continue to stand there with her iron gaze, motionless, yet judgemental.

These were good words. They were words that she could believe in, words that she personally thought were right in every way. However, after taking them all in, she couldn't help but find herself noticing that they had always been there, and that this duel had not actually changed them in the slightest. The young man probably had that very same speech prepared before Kimiko even brought him to the mountain. With this in mind, the Captain felt a tinge of disappointment,. For a split-second, she felt as though every single message that she had made as clear as possible for the medic to understand throughout their battle, from her critique of his behavior to her detailing of the warrior's ideals, had gone right over his head. During that split-second, she even believed that it was perhaps best for her to simply send him to jail and to then witness his lowly execution. However, before doubt could take her completely, she saw her Inner Hollow again, standing on top of the statue with that mocking smile... and not a second later, she returned to her earlier goal with a stronger conviction.

No. No, she could not let him die like that. She could not, for to do so would only make a fool out of him. So, with this in mind, she found walking onward towards him once more. As she moved onward, those same scarlet eyes would remain fixated on Kazuhiko as, meanwhile, the remnant of the "ink" surrounding her would use the last of their power to integrate themselves within her body. With every step she take, one of her injuries would be quickly healed. The broken bones would be returned to their original state, with not a single crack to behold any longer. Meanwhile, the scratched and cut skin would be closed and then cleaned, with naught a single drop of blood to be witnessed from them any longer. By the time she finally stopped right in front of the medic, the only thing that remained from their battle was an imprint of the man's knuckle left on her stomach besides another left by a phantom long gone... but he could not see that, not while her robes hid it from sight. Instead, all he could see was a body that now seemed fully healed of any wounds, with nothing that proved that she participated in this duel whatsoever but copious amounts of blood covering her skin and haori.

When she reached him, she would first look down towards him in silence, as though judging him for his words even further. Eventually, however, a sigh would leave her lips, one that was quiet and tired, and she would find herself slightly crouching down so that they could be face-to-face. From this distance, the man could see that her iron gaze was gone, and that the only thing that was left was instead a distant look. It appeared to look towards the future. From so close, the man could perhaps a hint of darkness in the scarlet of her eyes, and the reflection of another being by his side. The being was as tall as Kimiko herself, and was sitting on one of the statue's other hands, crouching down to stare at him from above. Her amused and excited smile was almost haunting, and it completely betrayed what Kimiko was meant to be then and there. Almost as though she was aware that he could perhaps see what was in her eye, she would remain silent, letting him get a good look at it all. Then, she would let out a single phrase: "Change is created by those who want to fight for what's right... not by those who let what's wrong run them over."

With this phrase spoken, the woman then pushed herself up to stand over Kazuhiko once more, looking down at him with those powerful scarlet eyes. She had done this slowly, methodically. Then, with absolutely no warning, a cruelly-loud metallic noise rang through the air as an explosion of killing intent burst from the Captain. It came so quickly that, in that moment, the medic would almost feel as though the swordswoman had cut his head off right then and there. However, before his head would have the time to fall off his shoulders, he would be able to realize that nothing had happened to his head. In fact, there was not a single cut anywhere on his neck. Instead, she had aimed for another target altogether. He would be unable to feel it then, but should he look down towards his prosthetic, he would be able to see that something had been engraved into his fake shoulder, a mark created by the tips of her blades. It appeared to be a single word written in kanji.

龍

Kimiko would allow the young man to gaze upon the word. She didn't expect him to understand why she had even bothered to etch it into his prosthetic at this point in time, nor did she expect to answer any of his questions regarding it. Instead, she would look down upon him as the vestiges of her "ink" slowly faded into the air. "Third Seat of the Fourth Division, Satoshi Kazuhiko. As of today, for your mortal transgressions, your title is now forfeit. You will no longer serve Miranda Frost in any capacity or anyone else who is a part of Yonbantai, and you will not accomplish any form of medical duty ever again without any authorization," she first declared. Then, with a serious frown, she continued: "From this point on, I'll make it my responsibility to have you instead transferred to Jūichibantai. Should your transfer be approved by Ichibantai, you'll become my advisor and counselor until you're no longer of use to me or my people. Do you understand?"  

It was forceful. Again, she knew. Oh, she knew how hard she was on the young man. What she was doing was also cruel, both for him and his sister Fuuko. However... this was the only way. She wanted him to live for the future betterment of the Soul Society, but he currently wanted to be imprisoned to keep the being inside of him at bay from the rest of the heavenly realm. Considering these two things, this was the closest thing that she could bring to the table in order to satisfy both she and the medic. By her side, he would remain figuratively imprisoned and on the verge of execution at any given moment. He would always be under her watch in some capacity, and thus, he would never be free. Moreover, he would always be surrounded by warriors ready to take him on should he ever lose control. With this initiative, he would become akin to a sleeping dragon, a beast that would always be watched over, always monitored for its own good by the great yarrow embedded upon Kimiko's very back.

In a way, the young man got exactly what he wanted after all. 

Just not in the way he thought he would get it.

[Satoshi Kazuhiko]

Kazuhiko had put the last bit of his remaining energy into delivering his monologue. Was it naive? Immature? Definitely. It also wasn't especially well thought out. But it was imperative to him that Kimiko understood he never wanted to hurt himself. He'd never given up. He'd simply chosen the path that he thought would best protect himself and others. Being arrested and put on death row might have seemed like forfeiting his life... But at this point, escaping imprisonment and death at the hands of authority was old hat for him.

He watched Kimiko closely as he finished his speech. He wasn't sure what he was hoping for. Looking for. Acceptance? Understanding? What did he expect... He was a monster. Her approach was slow. The ink that was a signature of Kimiko's release soaked into her body, disappearing beneath her skin. Or perhaps filling it in. Her wounds faded during her approach at a speed that made him envious. Just who was the medic here, anyway!?

The thought put a tired smile on his lips. But his smile froze. He was exhausted. Though his shikai persisted, it lacked the resources to produce the sensory field that he had come to rely on. He couldn't feel her emotions the way he could during their fight. But then, with only his eyes, he could tell that something was amiss. She had a faraway look in her eyes. She was somewhere else. And when the gaze came down to him, there was something else within it.

He blinked. Confident it was a trick of the eye caused by his extreme exhaustion. But when his eyes opened. It was still there. He was naive. But he wasn't stupid... This was the other energy he'd felt, wasn't it? She'd tried to show him a number of times, or so it seemed, throughout their engagement. She too, had something else living within her soul. The realization made him dizzy. His footing would have gone completely if he hadn't already been leaning against the statue. Was she-

Kimiko's words upended his thoughts. His eyes moved to her lips as she spoke. She spoke a single sentence that carried with it the weight of her intention. Fight... Something that he had done his best to avoid. Through all of his lofty words and his challenging philosophy, he had mostly only ever run. His heart beat quickly, resonating with the wisdom. He couldn't run forever. He'd have to stop. And then, as she put it, he'd get run over. He'd simply die tired.

And a single heartbeat later his breath caught in his throat. An impossibly fast movement cut through him. He gasped, confident that he would exhale blood rather than air. It took him two more tries, but finally, he found his breath. And he found his neck still intact with two of his fingertips. He hadn't even seen Kimiko move. It took him seconds longer than Kimiko probably expected... But eventually, his eyes fell upon the engraving in his arm.

"Huh?" She didn't wait for him to process. She continued, delivering her judgment. Her voice was calm but authoritative. Professional. Their duel had ended. The pleasantries had passed. There was nothing left to do now but settle their business.

His heart sank as she spoke. He knew that turning himself in would forfeit his position in the Fourth Division. He'd made a small family there. And it was exactly because of that family that he was doing this. But being nose to nose with it was too cruel. Kimiko's lips descended into a frown, she understood this as well.

But then she continued. And her words pierced his heart like a shard of ice. It pumped a sub-zero chill through his veins. Gooseflesh ran across his blood-covered flesh in waves. The Eleventh Division. The division where the most battle-hungry monsters in all of the Gotei 13. This was more cruel than simply executing on the spot. He fell to his knees, his eyes wide with terror. His mouth opened as he considered begging.

His ears were ringing. He felt as though he were plummeting endlessly as the world fell away! His belly twisted into knots until it was a single, impossibly dense ball! He felt the urge to vomit, but put a hand over his mouth to keep from sullying the clay diety and Kimiko.

Kimiko's decision was a sheltering one. There, she could watch over him. And the others within the Eleventh could as well. If there was any division in all of Soul Society that was qualified to make sure he didn't hurt anyone while still allowing him to serve... It was the Eleventh Division. Their strength would keep in check the strength of the thing Lagos had put inside him. This was the other way. The one he was confident Soul Society would find... And it was a place where he could prove to everyone that he was willing to fight for the peace he believed was possible!

So if he understood... Then why was he trembling like a cornered kitten?

"F-f-fu" He couldn't say it for fear that she might hear through the aether. He bit his lip and looked out over the precipice of the mountain. At the world below. Perhaps the easy way out wasn't so bad after all..."Onee-san is going to be pissed..."

-Fin-