Fresh Face in the Morning

[Scarlet]

Standing at the edge of the river that ran through Karakura Town, Hikari stood early in the morning as dawn was just coming up over the horizon. It wouldn't be long now before she would have to cease her training due to all the prying eyes of everyone else around. It was probably for the best though as her training at the moment was succeeding in little more than just frustration. How could manipulating the soul of the water be so much harder than that of the ground. Using soul command on the ground was something she picked up fast and could use quite well now even developing a few tricks of her own, yet water was something else completely. Although she wasn't aware of it the water was ever flowing and thus commanding the soul would take much more focus and intent then just the stable ever-present ground beneath her feet.

It's been more than a couple hours now and in that time she'd practiced basically everything that she'd refined and picked up over the last few months, now feeling more confident in the movements and sequences of her Fullbring. The massive battle axe at first proving to be much more difficult to wield for her than the modern-day form of an ax. Should a Hollow appear once again as they typically did every week she was ready though to split its mask down the center. Now if there was only a way to relief stress using her powers, then she really wouldn't have anything to be frustrated about.

[Tala Selao]

As the Senkaimon's dimensional fabric rippled, a figure clad in the distinctive black garb of a Shinigami emerged, stepping onto the familiar grounds of Karakura Town. His eyes, like cloudy sky, scanned the horizon as the first light of dawn painted the world in hues of warmth. Despite not being a master of the spiritual arts yet, Tala bore the weight of his responsibility as an expedition lead with a quiet grace that spoke of his commitment to the position, even if the World of the Living wasn't his jurisdiction. On his back sat Hestia, his Zanpakuto, perpetually in its Shikai form—a staff with twin blades on either end, a unique and potent weapon that mirrored the untapped potential within him.

As the morning breeze whispered through the town, Hestia seemed to hum with the potential for both grace and devastation. Tala's journey with his Zanpakuto was still in its early stages, each encounter with the spirit within the blade revealing new layers of their symbiotic connection. The tattoos on Tala's left arm, a reflection of his lineage and the untapped potential within, glowed faintly as he contemplated the challenges that lay ahead. Heat and flames, under his control but not yet mastered, flickered at the tips of Hestia's blades, a visual representation of the Shinigami's ongoing pursuit of strength.

As Tala stood by the river, unaware of the present company, the echoes of his ongoing training reverberated in the air, a prelude to the trials that awaited him. The challenges he faced were stepping stones toward mastery of both his abilities and the bond with Hestia. With a deep breath, he embraced the dawn, ready to face the day with Hestia at his side—a staff of potential, a blade of determination, and the promise of growth on the horizon. The river, a witness to the ebb and flow of spiritual energy, seemed to murmur encouragement, as if acknowledging Tala's journey toward unlocking his true potential as a Shinigami.

[Scarlet]

The light of the day was gracing the horizon now and Hikari knew that her training for the morning was at its end. If anyone caught her with a weapon like her Fullbring then it was just going to cause a lot of unnecessary and painful to answer questions. So the plan was to revert her Fullbring back into its original form and then get back home to relax before her shift at work. A wrench was thrown into that plan almost right away though, although not the sort of wrench that she usually expected now. Over the last few months she’d learned quite a lot, one thing was her lack of talent when it came to sensing others, yet she could feel something right away pop up over on the bridge.

Hikari wasn’t sure why she could feel whatever this was, but she couldn’t deny that she could feel it either. Whatever it was had to be spiritual in nature otherwise she wouldn’t feel anything out of the norm. Taking off with a sprint down the edge of the river Hikari would waste no time getting over to the bridge and then once her approach to it was accomplished she’d commune with the soul of the air. A little trick she’d been practicing to help her chase down the Hollow who ran away. One that allows her to jump up while the air keeps her from falling down and pushes her up much higher.

It’d take a couple of seconds, but she closed the distance on whatever she was sensing fast enough it seemed. She didn’t hear the sounds of shouting, nor the damage of property. Such lack of destruction made her think that whatever this was, couldn’t be a Hollow. Getting over the edge and then onto the walkway section of the bridge Hikari would look around yet couldn’t find anyone out of place. Everyone was either walking or in a vehicle looking completely normal. Reverting her fullbring back into her earrings to avoid stares she stood questioning what she was feeling.

How could she feel someone over here and yet no one spiritual seemed to be in sight. Turning around and looking over the edge of the bridge Hikari had a moment to smack herself. How could she be so oblivious! Down by the river only a little distance from the bridge on the opposite side of where she’d been, was a man clad in black. She’d missed sight of him and just followed what she’d been feeling despite her apparently laughably bad ability to sense others. Making sure to avoid as much eye contact as possible Hikari hops over the side of the bridge and then steps down several times communicating with the air to act as steps.

Approaching the man she could easily tell that he was a Shinigami as she’d met quite a few of them yet none of them felt like he did right now. He didn’t look outlandish so why she could sense him, Hikari couldn’t figure out. Getting down onto the grass by the river about ten feet away from him now she stood not sure whether he was going to be nice like most or horrible like one other had been. “Welcome to Karakura, is there something going to happen?” Hikari not one to typically mince words wanted to know why she could sense him yet knew not to demand anything otherwise she’d likely get a spell cast on her again.

[Tala Selao]

Tala's spiritual sensing skills weren't quite the best either, yet he was able to pick him her rather higher spiritual strength compared to the rest in the area. He quickly turned his attention to where he'd felt her presence and watched as she commanded the air to form steps for her, somewhat impressed by her skill in this. He then observed Hikari with a thoughtful gaze, recognizing the inquisitive nature in her eyes as she stopped some distance from him.

He inclined his head in a respectful nod, acknowledging her approach. "Greetings," he responded, a gentle smile on his lips and the resonance of his voice reflecting that same gentleness. The flames that perpetually danced around his Shikai, which still hung to his back, hinted at the latent power he held. "I'm Tala Selao, a Shinigami from Third Squad."

As Hikari inquired about the purpose of his presence, Tala's expression remained gentle, yet a spark of intrigue gleamed in his eyes. "I'm only here on a routine patrol conducted by our seated and unseated officers to ensure the balance is kept in order." he explained, his gaze shifting towards the flowing river. "Karakura is often a focal point for spiritual disturbances that would upset that balance." Tala brushes his bangs out of his eyes, flames flickering gently around his fingertips as he does so. "If you've sensed anything amiss, your insights could prove invaluable." The flames seemed to dance with a comforting warmth, echoing the reassurance in his words.

[Scarlet]

Certainly not something that she would have expected, a Shinigami being the source of what she felt wasn’t out of the question. If he was what she felt though why could she feel him when all of the others weren’t like that. She’d met almost half a dozen shinigami and most of them had been cordial at the very least with only one of them attacking her while boasting a sense of superiority. None of them though had been strong enough that she could sense them, no one so far had been that strong. So what made this one different? He didn’t look any stronger than the others, Maharo was definitely bigger than him so what was it? That’s when Hikari noticed the dance of flames along the weapon on his back.

Tala Selao, a name that she hadn’t heard before and yet Hikari already could assume why she felt him when all others were silent. The way the weapon on his back danced with fire, it brought back what she’d been told about zanpakuto. How just like a Fullbring the weapon is supposed to awaken some sort of power. This was her first time seeing an example of such ability and yet her fear of open flame was already igniting within her chest. Why did it have to be fire? Balance once again was the response from Tala, something all the Shinigami spoke of and her Hikari didn’t really get what they meant. Balance meant that something had to be equal or even, but from what she could tell what they wanted was peace.

“I’m not the best at sensing anything. In fact you’re the only one I’ve ever felt like this. I’ve not seen a Hollow in the last few days though. It’s been much longer since a demon or anything else has attacked though. So considering everything I think this week is going quite well. Why is your zanpakuto transformed if you don’t mind me asking. Shouldn’t something like that be kept secret or for the right moment?” Hikari, having not seen a shikai, only knew its name and the basic concept of a sword that possessed part of the shinigami’s soul. Most of what she knew could just be compressed into a single statement. Zanpakuto and Fullbring are similar but different.

[Tala Selao]

Tala observed Hikari, his senses attuned to the subtle shifts in her emotions. The dance of flames around his Zanpakuto had not gone unnoticed, and it seemed to evoke a mix of curiosity and unease in the young woman before him. As she questioned the nature of his permanently released Shikai, Tala offered a sympathetic response.

"Ah, flames on my Zanpakuto are a manifestation of its constant release and power," Tala explained, his eyes holding a glint of understanding. "It's a reflection of the bond between a Shinigami and their weapon. In my case, my Shikai, Hasu, grants me control over heat and fire." He paused for a moment, allowing the flames to flicker with an almost hypnotic rhythm. "It's not a secret, but rather a symbol of readiness. In this form, my Zanpakuto is always ready to protect, to bring balance when needed."

Tala's gaze softened, the flames around his Zanpakuto pulsating in harmony with his energy, "However, I am somewhat able to dull it's power down if the flames are of too much discomfort for you." As he said this, the flames had begun to slowly weaken, their warmth ebbing away from Hikari. "As for why you were able to sense me, is for this same reason I assume. Just being able to perceive me at all speaks to the amount of strength you possess spiritually, considering you are just human. You must be a Quincy ot Fullbringer then."

He then grimaces as a thought occurs to him, "Or at least I hope you're one of those two." He then shrugs before he turns and gestured towards the flowing river, the morning light casting reflections on its surface. "Your assessment of the week's tranquility is reassuring. Hollows can be easily dealt with as long as you are prepared and know what to do. However the demons are of a rather bigger concern if they ever show up." He frowns as he recalls the siege that the Hellions had set loose on the Soul Society. It still felt like it had just happened yesterday and yet also seeming like a distant memory that he wished he could let fade away.

He then quickly offered a reassuring smile as he showed those thoughts away. "I appreciate your honesty, and your awareness of the spiritual realm is commendable. If there's anything else you wish to know or discuss, feel free to ask. We're all bound by the shared duty of maintaining the delicate balance between our worlds after all."

[Scarlet]

Just as she assumed the zanpakuto on the back of Tala was in a state of power, what she’d been told was called Shikai. The first stage was the beginning although looking at one now even just the bit she could see, well it was more imposing then she would have imagined. By comparison her Fullbring didn’t really strike her as all that powerful or threatening now. An axe that seemed to be made of obsidian and iron how it could compare to a sword glistening with fire. She had to figure it out soon otherwise it was going to drive her crazy, just what sort of power did she possess?

“Heat and fire? Huh didn’t think a zanpakuto could be broad like that.”

Although there was some distance between them Hikari could see the fire flickering no differently than those kept living above a candle wick. Although her fear of flame had diminished in recent months it was still breathing. Candles wouldn’t get her hands sweating which meant her nerves had gotten to her. Although unaware of it herself Hikari was scared of one thing, this zanpakuto being turned on her. She’d already been attacked by a Shinigami in the past who possessed a superiority complex. While Tala didn’t talk like that she still had only just met him. Fighting a flaming sword just didn’t sound like a challenge, but a death sentence.

Able to keep his zanpakuto always at the ready seemed both like something amazing and yet dangerous especially with its ability being fire. Wouldn’t that cause problems for others around him? “No, I'm fine, just a bit shocked. I haven’t heard of anyone being able to keep their power in a constant state before.” From what Tala said next Hikari pieced together that should a Shinigami unleash their shikai she likely would be able to sense them. She had to remember what this felt like, make sure not to forget it. If she felt it again it meant either Tala was in Karakura again or someone was fighting someone else of significance.

“I’ve met enough people, Shinigami included, that have told me I’m a Fullbringer.” Bringing her right hand up to her torso Hikari’s earrings would glow red then form into reiatsu rushing from her head to her hand and transforming to the long obsidian black battle axe. The Fullbring length longer than Hikari’s own height might be surprising, but Hikari had used it enough now that it was starting to become second nature. A real extension of her similar to how the Shinigami describe their zanpakuto. A weapon that she could feel proud of, similar to the warriors of old. Placing the blade at the bottom of the shaft Hikari positions it to her right side like a spear.

“I’ve only fought them once, but they were more difficult and just as savage. One though fought like something from legend.” Hikari kept listening but at the end she had to ponder for a moment. When she met a Shinigami she usually learned something new. Tala seemed to be the strongest one she’d met since only he possessed shikai to her knowledge. Sadly though she couldn’t think of anything to ask. She didn’t care about the different squads since all Shinigami that came to Karakura did the same thing. Usually she’d ask to spar but that meant fighting against fire. “What was it like when you unlocked shikai? I’ve hit a wall and can’t seem to figure out the next step with this damned axe.”

[Tala Selao]

Tala offered a reassuring smile, recognizing the weight of wielding such power. "Indeed, the diversity in Zanpakuto abilities is vast. Each one is as unique as the Shinigami who wields it." He contemplated her concern about the constant state of his Shikai and the potential dangers it posed, something he is always aware of. "Controlling the release of one's Zanpakuto is a skill that every Shinigami learns. It becomes second nature, ensuring the safety of those around us. While having Hasu constantly release can be quite dangerous and makes it somewhat more difficult to get a grasp on her powers, I assure you that I at least have enough control to be of no harm," He gestures to her and the area they currently stood within, "to those around me." 

He then chuckles softly at her following observation, "It's actually not something I actively have control of. When I first gained access to this power, I was unable to fully seal her power for several months. Even now, I can only partially seal some of her power such as restricting her form to that of her sealed state. Her power is still there however, just subdued some." He sighs as removes Hasu from where it was strapped on his back, fully showcasing the double bladed staff, the top of which stood a little less than five feet over him. He made sure to keep the flames subdued as he removed the staff. Hikari would then watch as the staff slowly shrinked into a plain unassuming looking katana yet she'd still feel its presence and power, "To be honest, I haven't meet anyone else who has a similar condition as this." 

Hikari's revelation about being a Fullbringer intrigued Tala, as well as filling him with some relief, as he observed with keen interest as her earrings transformed into a formidable battle axe. The obsidian black weapon resonated with a power that echoed her connection to the spiritual realm. Tala acknowledged the significance of her Fullbring, a testament to her strength and resilience. "That is rather impressive. It's actually my first time seeing a Fullbring up close. I'm a bit jealous at how easily portable that is as well." He gives her a soft smile at the joke, hoping to somewhat ease the nerves that he could tell were tensed.

The smile doesn't stay long as he grimaces at her recounting of her battle against some Hellions. It'd be a lie if he didn't admit to being somewhat surprised at learning that she was able to hold her own against one or at the very least, survive the encounter. Sadly for him, it seemed he wouldn't be able to let those memories fade away today as Hikari unknowingly inquires about him acquiring Shikai. He sighs once more as he stares down at the river, "Soul Society had been attacked a while back by the Hellions. Some kind of large scaled raid or something. Me and a few others went to help those who couldn't defend themselves. We saved a few but were nearly overwhelmed. One of my senior officers was going to sacrifice his life to gives us time to retreat yet I couldn't let that happen. I wanted to help him as well as protect those that were still in the area from the Hellions but I was too weak." 

He glances up at Hikari and taps his katana, "And then I heard a voice tell me of the strength I held and how I need to stop doubting myself. And so I did." He let's Hasu reform back into her Shikai, "And then the rest is history as they say. Probably not exactly what you expected and I imagine it to not be very useful for you but I hope you find some wisdom in it." He offers her an apologetic smile as he shrugs.

[Scarlet]

Although it was insane to imagine what Hikari was learning made sense considering everything else that she’d been told about Shinigami. If every zanpakuto gained its abilities from its owner's soul then how could the ability not be as unique as fingerprints. Still the idea that this man in front of her could control not just fire but heat as well. Such an ability was terrifying, not only could he burn his enemies, but zapping away the heat in an area or raising it to the point of a microwave. Hikari nearly shuttered at the idea of fighting someone raising the temperature to such an extreme, how could anyone stand such heat?

What Tala told her was just another confirmation that practice, practice practice was essential. Handling her Fullbring wouldn’t be any different, so practicing with it more was the best chance she had to awakening it’s ability, then afterwards she’d have to practice with it more and more and more before she wasn’t a danger to those around her. Although she had a perfect image of it in her mind now and the feeling felt as familiar to her as anything else, she still couldn’t assume anything about what it’s ability would turn out to be. A black axe like this made her think perhaps she’d get unlucky and possess something similar to the zanpakuto in front of her, one that could conjure up her fear.

Watching Tala command his spear back into the form of a katana was something she didn’t expect, although it seemed he’d likely be the only person able to accomplish such a thing. To know that he didn’t know anyone else that could do the same meant she likely wouldn’t ever come across someone like that. What she didn’t expect though was for him to remark quite as nicely about her Fullbring. Although the easily portable comment did get a slight chuckle from her. She hadn’t really thought of it that way since she still had to be careful when using it since others would definitely feel a way about her holding a battle axe.

Hikari could tell that the Shinigami had a sore spot when it came to those sentenced to Hell. Learning that the prisoners of Hell had managed to launch an attack on Soul Society was a surprise. She’d fought against only a small handful of them and barely survived while getting quite a large amount of help from Shimada-sama. How even those like Tala could handle so many was unbelievable. Even now after all her practice she was very doubtful she’d been able to fight that last Hellion solo and survive. The way he’d used that long sword was something unbelievable. The way that Tala spoke about what happened with the demons was the same way that Hikari knew she’d feel as well if Shimada hadn’t been there with her. Thankfully they’d kept the demons from killing anyone that day, but one miracle didn’t mean she could ignore the threat.

What he said afterwards was what really helped Hikari though, even though she wasn’t a shinigami and from what she could tell her Fullbring wasn’t going to start just talking to her. Tala would be able to see a light go off in her eyes though after he finished speaking. “No, that actually makes sense. I think I get what happened and what might help me.” That’s when her facial expression shifted from joy and excitement into exhaustion. She wasn’t lying in her eyes, she really just connected dots and figured out a way that may help her finally reach the power dormant inside her Fullbring. “I probably need to be afraid for my life again, that or something even more extreme like almost dying.”

[Tala Selao]

Her response, a realization that mirrored her own experiences, brought a sense of satisfaction to Tala. He could see the spark of understanding in her eyes, a connection forged through shared struggles. Her mention of needing a life-threatening situation to unlock her true potential, however, gave Tala a pause.

"I wouldn't wish for anyone to face such extreme circumstances," Tala expressed sincerely, his voice carrying a subtle note of concern. "But the journey of self-discovery often takes unexpected turns. The spiritual realm has a way of revealing our inner strengths in moments we least expect." Tala's gaze lingered on Hikari, a silent acknowledgment of the challenges she might encounter. The delicate balance between safety and growth in the spiritual world was a lesson both demanding and rewarding. "If there's ever a need for guidance or assistance, don't hesitate to reach out. We're all navigating this intricate tapestry together."

He does pause however as he realizes a quick predicament of how they would even be able to contact each other. Or at the very least, how she would be able to contact him. Perhaps he could stop by Urahara's while he was here and see if he had something useful. If not then perhaps he could go back to Soul Society and see if he could put in some type of special request.

He's sure he could make something work out since, as far as he could tell, Hikari didn't seem to have any kind of ill intentions and was even rather cooperative. He also had her data recorded via his Ocular Lens that he could use so even if he was wrong about her, her face would at least be know to the rest of Soul Society.

[Scarlet]

Although what she suggested was a heavy thought Hikari was fairly confident that it would be enough. Tala told her practically what she was already thinking though. Such a suggestion was more than dangerous and something that she shouldn’t willingly throw herself into just in the hope that it would work out for her. He was right, it was a dumb decision comparable to wishing someone would attack you just so you can prove you can handle yourself. Hikari had met enough men that spoke of such things and always believed them to be beaten dumb already. She had to weigh her options and hopefully figure out something else to break through this dense ceiling of power.

“Yeah that’s not something everyone goes for Tala. Most of you Shinigami have been fine and rather nice, there have been others though. I’ve been told things and had things happen to me. I don’t know a lot about you all, but just like humans there are good and bad.” Hikari spoke without really thinking after hearing Tala suggest seeking out help in the future. She really couldn’t forgive what that one Shinigami had done even now and knew if she saw him again his teeth would be decorating the street. What she didn’t realize was that Tala was acting like bait in Karakura.

She’d learned enough about Hollows to know they sought out those of more power and Tala was essentially dripping with it right now. It would seem neither thought much of that fact and now the consequences were revealing themselves. Multiple Hollows slipping through black holes in reality. Tala was a beacon of reiatsu, a source of food that would attract Hollows at least for the moment. All of the Hollows weren’t near them though they'd likely be seeking Tala out. An attack was coming now not in Karakura for once, but on the Shinigami that to the Hollows was like a lighthouse in the darkness.

[Tala Selao]

Tala absorbed Hikari's words, a mixture of understanding and a growing sense of disbelief in his gaze as she contemplated the potential paths ahead. Her revelation about encountering unsavory Shinigami seemed to catch him off guard, his expression reflecting a certain naivety. "Wait, you mean to imply that there are Shinigami who misuse their power and authority?" Tala's voice held a hint of shock, his eyes widening slightly. "I mean, I knew there could be disagreements and differing personalities, but outright abuse? That's... surprising. And intolerable"

His gaze shifted from disbelief to a thoughtful expression, trying to reconcile this new information with his perception of the Shinigami community. "True, like any group, we have our share of different individuals," Tala responded, his tone carrying a sense of understanding, whilst shaking his head in shame. "But hearing that some would misuse their power is disheartening. I always thought we were meant to protect and bring balance."

As the conversation unfolded, Tala remained oblivious to the emerging danger. The mention of seeking help in the future lingered in the air, a testament to the trust that had begun to build between them. A subtle shift in the spiritual energy around them caught Tala's attention. The emergence of multiple Hollows, drawn by the potent reiatsu emanating from him, heralded an imminent threat. Tala's eyes narrowed in realization, and he glanced around, assessing the situation.

"It seems we'll have to continue this conversation later," he noted, his voice taking on a focused edge. "Hollows are drawn to spiritual energy, and right now, I'm a beacon. We need to be cautious and prepare for incoming attacks." Tala's hand instinctively moved to withdraw his Shikai, Hasu, the flames flickering with a heightened awareness. His eyes scanned the surroundings, alert to the unseen threats converging on their location. "Forgive me, I didn't catch your name earlier," Tala admitted, his tone sincere. "But now isn't the time for formalities. Stay close. We'll deal with these Hollows together. Be ready for anything."

[Scarlet]

Hikari listened to Tala explain and reason with what she had just told him about her own experiences. From the reactions he was giving and what he was saying Hikari came to the conclusion that while he held a high position in one of the Squads. The other Shinigami must be on their best behavior in front of him. Tala just seemed like the sort that couldn’t believe others would disregard something as intangible as duty or honor. Hikari wanted to smile and yet felt sad at the same time. He was showing her that there were people like her that wanted to act for the good of all, but reminding her that the days of honor were sadly extinct.

No longer did the samurai nor the knights roam the human world. After learning of the spiritual worlds Hikari had thought, although not enough about the historical warriors of the past. How many of them in legend were like her? How many of them possessed unimaginable power and really fought against Hollows and other things? It was something that for a few days had given her much interest and yet she realized quickly that figuring those things out was practically impossible. How could she ever find anything beyond the tales of the past already available.

Just like that though what she’s been expecting once she’d seen Taka come to pass, Hollows. As sure as brown leaves in fall a Hollow and Shinigami show up as a pair. This time though there were quite a lot of Hollows enough that Hikari was happy to know Tala was here. Facing down this number with just her Fullbring’s form would be a heavy challenge. As if that wasn’t bad enough though Tala brought his zanpakuto forward and Hikari caught sight of fire, her nerves flaring up as fear swam through her system. “Why’d it have to be fire.”

“My name is Hikari Ejiri.”

Ready to make a remark about how Tala should be careful to burn the Hollows and not her, but she let the comment stay locked in her head. This was a serious moment and anything beyond her absolute top effort meant others could die. The Hollows that were rushing Tala at the moment seemed fairly run of the mill until one large circular looking one with green skin and many boils around its torso began spitting out globs of thick liquid meant to glue them down. Three Hollows were enclosing now looking to all attack Tala, a hawk, centipede and praying mantis.

[Tala Selao]

As the conversation shifted to the more immediate threat, Tala focused on the task at hand. The emergence of Hollows, drawn by his spiritual energy, required his full attention. Hikari's remark about the presence of fire in Tala's abilities didn't go unnoticed, her unease evident in her voice. Tala acknowledged her introduction with a nod, ready to face the incoming threat.

The Hollows charged, each with its own unique form and abilities. Tala raised Hasu, his Shikai, ready to face the onslaught. The circular Hollow unleashed globs of thick liquid, attempting to immobilize them. Tala swiftly moved, a dance with flames accompanying each calculated step. The hawk, centipede, and praying mantis closed in, each posing a distinct challenge.

Tala felt the familiar warmth emanating from Hasu, his zanpakuto, as he faced the encroaching Hollows. The flames around Hasu danced with anticipation, ready to heed their master's command. Hikari stood nearby, witnessing the unfolding clash of spiritual powers. As the circular Hollow unleashed its noxious assault, globs of thick liquid hurtled towards them. Tala's eyes narrowed in determination. With a swift movement, he swung Hasu, invoking Hearth's Shelter. The intense heat radiating from the Zanpakuto surged, creating a protective barrier around Tala.

The liquid globs collided with the wall of heat, repelled by the powerful force generated by Hasu. The sizzling sound of the thick liquid meeting intense heat filled the air, creating an otherworldly melody in the midst of the battle. Tala stood unfazed, the protective cocoon of Hearth's Shelter dispersing the harmful substance harmlessly away from them. As the globs of thick liquid were repelled by the protective barrier of Hearth's Shelter, Tala turned his attention to Hikari, who seemed tense and wary. He noticed her apprehension, especially regarding the flames that danced around Hasu.

"Hikari," Tala called out, his voice carrying a reassuring tone. "You don't have to fear the flames that dance around Hasu. They are under my control, and I assure you, they won't harm you." He offered her a comforting smile, hoping to ease her anxiety. "The flames serve as both a weapon and a shield, but their purpose is not to cause harm to allies. You are safe here," Tala added, his eyes meeting hers with sincerity. The flames around Hasu continued to flicker, but their warmth seemed to carry a soothing quality, as if responding to Tala's words.

"Focus on the battle at hand, and together, we shall overcome these Hollows," he encouraged, ready to face the next onslaught with determination and unity. As the hawk, centipede, and praying mantis Hollows closed in, Tala prepared for their onslaught. The circular Hollow's assault wasn't the end; more challenges awaited. Hasu's blades remained hot to the touch, capable of cutting through metal and burning through flesh. Tala's movements were precise, each swing a dance that harnessed the power of heat.

With a swift movement of his zanpakuto, Tala activated Hearth's Warmth. A wave of intense heat surged forth, traveling at a remarkable speed toward the encroaching Hollows. The circular Hollow, with its green skin and boils, found itself engulfed in the fiery wave, unable to escape the scorching heat. As the wave reached its target, a small explosive-like burst resonated, leaving the circular Hollow in flames. The intense heat proved too much for the creature to withstand, and it crumbled into ashes, dissolving into the air.

Simultaneously, the wave extended its reach to the hawk-like Hollow, catching it in the fiery embrace. The Hollow screeched as the flames consumed it, its form disintegrating under the relentless power of Hearth's Warmth. The air carried the scent of burning reiatsu as the two defeated Hollows faded away, leaving behind only echoes of their existence.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reiatsu - 5,750/6,000}-150 x1 Hearth's Shelter
-100 x1 Hearth's Warmth

SPOILER: Click to show

{Hearth's Shelter}Using the intense heat that Hāsu gives off, the user can repel ranged attacks that have an OS less than the user's Spiritual Pressure or if the attack's Class is less than this technique by swinging the zanpakuto in front of them and extracting the heat it gives. They then send it off to meet the attack.

Drawbacks: Cost 150 reiatsu to use. Cannot control where the deflected attack goes, meaning it cannot be redirected back at the opponent.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Hearth's Warmth}By controlling and combining the heat that Hestia gives off with his own Reiatsu, Tala is able to launch a wave of intense heat towards his target when he swings his zanpakuto. It travels at a speed of 300 and all flammable objects will be set aflame. Once it hits it's target, it will feel like a small explosive has gone off and leave second degree burns.

Drawbacks: Cost 100 reiatsu to use. This technique can also be noticed quite easily as it does appear as a heat vapor. As long as someone has a 50 in Instinct or Energy Sensory, they will be able to notice it. The burns can also be pushed through withHeat Tolerance 2.

[Scarlet]

Hollows attacking, something else that Hikari had gotten fairly used to in the last few months. What she wasn’t expecting though since it really only happened a few times was a group of Hollows working together. Usually when a Hollow attacked they’d do so alone and when she was done dealing with them, if there was a second it would attack right after. They tended to go for a sneak attack when she’d believe the threat was gone. So seeing a few actually work together was surprising. If they weren’t coming right at her she’d probably wonder why or how they began working together, now though she’d just have to settle on killing them all together.

Handling all of them would more than likely be much easier by working alongside Tala, but Hikari could see now that the attention of each Hollow was actually on him. It was like he really happened to be a magnet for them. Jumping to her right, getting more than just a couple of feet away, Hikari made sure Tala would have the space to use his zanpakuto. Although she hadn’t really seen a shikai yet nor what could really be done with one she’d been told things. Enough things that getting away made sense.

She watched now ready at any moment to rush in and cleave through a Hollow’s body with her Fullbring. What she saw was reinforcement that these Hollows knew how to fight with one another. A disgusting looking one that just began spitting out globs of green snot. An expression of pure nastiness was displayed across her face as she saw the globs of snot just sizzling in the air then falling to the ground. Tala was showing not just the Hollows, but her as well what a zanpakuto could do. She couldn’t see any fire beyond what was right on Tala yet she saw it with her own eyes. Somehow Tala was making it impossible for anything to get near him without burning up and yet she couldn’t see a reason why. Although Tala gave her confirmation that his zanpakuto wouldn’t harm her, Hikari couldn't control herself from taking a few more steps back.

Fire was something she really hadn’t come to terms with yet, strange enough that she laughed at herself. She could face down and fight monsters to the death and place herself in harm's way just to protect those ignorant to reality. All the same though fire had taken her father and left her with a scar that hadn’t yet faded from her soul. Tala did manage to keep the young woman from snapping mentally though by telling her to focus on the Hollows, actually redirecting her in perhaps the only way that would work. They were all going for Tala which meant that she’d watch and wait for a moment to just strike one that didn’t pay her any mind. Hikari, though didn’t expect to see what happened next, how could a shinigami be so powerful?

Wiping out two Hollows in just a moment, actually managing to ignite one of them in flames so hot that the body just gave up and then disappeared. There wasn’t anything more terrifying than the power to just set things on fire without any visible warning or requirement. How was Tala only a Vice Captain? That’s when her vision was obscured by the praying mantis Hollow and Hikari snapped back to reality. Rushing in on the mantis who was approaching Tala with its back to Hikari. A downward slash from her left to the right side removed the back left leg of the Hollow in a single stroke. Turning around with a spin Hikari would already be on the next side when the Hollow looks back. Replicating the same motion that she’d just done, the Hollow would feel its second back leg removed from its body.

This time though Hikari didn’t waste any extra time as her target was right in front of her. Bringing her axe upwards like an uppercut from its downward position after her immediate swing. This time with a step forward and both arms extended Hikari would bring the shape edge of her Fullbring at the underarm of the Hollow’s blade arm. In just a moment or two Hikari employed the skill she’d been practicing for months now. The training and survival against everything that’d been trying to kill her had turned Hikari into perhaps the best wielder of an axe in all of Japan. Falling to the ground now off balance the Hollow screamed in rage yet couldn’t strike Hikari as she stayed on the right side of its body. There was no position that would enable the Hollow to attack. Moving slightly Hikari stands in the executioner position and then brings down her Fullbringer like the millionth other swings that decapitate the target.