Disturbing Old Friends [JT/Kimiko]

[Raphael Laurent]

Dammit... 2 AM and he couldn't sleep. The nightmares were keeping him up, now, and they only kept getting worse, each time causing him to wake up in a cold sweat. Hell he'd barely even gone to bed, two hours ago, when he'd woken up in shock and horror. Then the voice had started, the same one, as always. This was starting to get old, but there were some things that he was starting to understand. Any time that he had these episodes he had an overwhelming urge to go out and fight hollows and, during such fights, he always wanted to use Hollow Seed.

Power... It was a weird word, as he'd never wanted power before, he'd never really needed any overwheming sense of power. But... now that he was able to easily kill these weaker hollows and even some of the stronger ones, he was beginning to feel more confident. And yet... He needed more. The stronger that he was, the more power that he had, the more people he could protect, the more that he could beat up hollows, the less he'd need shinigami... The more hollows he could kill, and more...

He shook his head. It was so frustrating, having to sit there and listen to various normal people talking about how their days went, as if nothing was wrong in little worlds

There was so much that he still had to do, though; he needed to visit places, needed to understand so much more about the world and with this... He stretched his hand, frowning in annoyance and anger. It almost felt like someone was digging and rooting into his soul... He could feel the anger pulling into him, grabbing him more and more. He wanted... to go out and hunt. He was getting...SO tired of always being in control of himself. Sometimes he just felt that need to let go. He could be... so much more. He knew that in his soul. It echoed throughout the core of his being and made him want to be... But for that he needed more strength; he needed to kill hollows.

A roar echoed through the night and he could sense his opportunity and took a deep breath. It took him but a minute to dive completely in, allowing the feeling to overtake his mind. Immediately his power flared to life, ballooning in an extreme amount of hollow power, the sclera in his eyes yellowing in his giving over to his power. Then he took a deep breath. "Yeeees... Such strength... Letting go...giving myself up... Over to this feeing... How beautiful..." Unknown to himself, his voice echoed in a telltalel way, his eyes panning to the right, as a telltale roar rang through the night.

It didn't take him long to find it, the hollow, and he was on it in seconds, punching and blasting it. Within minutes of Raphael finding it, it was dead. Yet, it hadn't dissipated and with an oddly malicious smile, he raised his right hand, energy gathering into it before jamming a class five hollow seed into it. The technique acted like a saw, ripping it apart and immediately he began to eat. He coould feel it strengthening him, despite how weak it was. It was a wonderful feeling... Finally, he could eat...

[Nakajima Kimiko]

Nightmares... It was a concept that Kimiko had long since gotten used to. For years on end, most particularly ever since she began truly developing her abilities as a Shinigami, she experienced them in one way or another... and every time she did, she would find herself locked in a state of physical torment until her slumber would be complete. It was an endless cycle that she endured at the hands of the creature within her soul, one that she honestly believed would never come to an end. Such endlessness had even come to a point that, upon the earning of her Bankai, she had gotten used to it. A part of her had even come to consider it as a positive, if only because it prepared her to face the hell that awaited her in the future battlefields by inserting her into deeper hells first and foremost. Then, they stopped once she acquired a dojo during a time of peace, and for a time, she had gotten used to that too. Then, they came back. Then, they stopped again... and now, she experienced them while awake.

She knew why it began. In a way, it was her fault. Long after she realized that the nightmares were the work of her Inner Hollow and not some twisted products of her mind proper, and some time after she began to experiencing them once again. She could still recall their conversation, how she told the beast that her game had lost its luster and that she required another game. Really, considering that, she should have expected the creature to make another game of her own... and unfortunately, it was somewhat effective. You can get used to nightmares; after all, in the end, they are nothing more than things to go through while you are deep in slumber, and so you can create a barrier between them and the real world. However, the same cannot quite be said when those nightmares almost entirely stop their previous works and instead begin to operate in the real world in another form. Kimiko first referred to them as hallucinations. Eventually, though, she gave a more proper name: daydreams.

At first, they were simple. Rarely, perhaps maybe once or twice per day, she would see her dark replica staring at her in the crowds of Rukongai or resting atop a skyscraper of the Living World. But then, their frequency began to skyrocket. It happened every time she felt as though she was going through something that bothered her: the handling of Kazuhiko, the sheltering of Ruhe, the warning that she received from Aramis regarding her presence within one of her schools, the presence of mutated Humans in the Living World as well as more enslaved Hollows, the emotional turmoil of her mentor Celes... then, Ruhe's departure and return to the clutches of the Vandenreich and the grand murder of the people of the 80th western district. All of those things caused her to experience more and more of these terrible daydreams, and now, it was becoming downright excessive. Before, she only saw her from time to time. Now, she sees her almost constantly.

Today was no different. As she remained atop the rooftop of a house in Karakura Town, she saw the creature again. The replica rested atop an electric pole, watching her with that teasing grin of hers. For now, she did nothing but remain there. There were no horrifying deformations to be seen, no haunting gaze testing her ability to withstand the horror, and no sudden rushes of adrenaline. No, she just stood there on the pole, looming like a hawk watching over her prey. The Captain only stared back with a frown, remaining silent as she tried to also maintain her attention onto the rest of the city. Then, eventually, her patience began to reach its limits.  Having fun with your new game so far? Her thoughts asked then, with their owner fully aware that the creature could hear them. Upon first hearing, a normal person would have most likely believed this question to be completely off-topic, as though it had nothing to do with the current situation Kimiko was in. However, the creature understand. Oh, she most definitely did.

"Oh, you wouldn't believe it, Kimiko-chan~. It's nice to see that I can still get your attention whenever I want to," she replied, evidently quite joyous if her tone was anything to go by. For a brief moment, there was a crack in her voice, almost as though its pitch had become just a tad bit higher. However, it returned to normal just about the very next split-second. Kimiko heard this change in pitch, of course; after all, her senses were refined enough to catch such a particular detail. With that said, she didn't want to comment on it, both because she did not believe it deserved her attention and because she had other, more important things to do than to deal with her Inner Hollow for the time being. Unfortunately for her, though, said Inner Hollow was not going to allow her to ignore her so easily. "So, what exactly brought you back to this shitty little town again? How about you remind me, Kimiko-chan? You know, just to make sure~." 

The Shinigami would frown upon hearing such a question. She knew that she was being teased; after all, the creature could read her mind and, therefore, she could retrieve the memories of the report she had read prior to going to bed just an hour ago. But, even so, the swordswoman decided that she might as well indulge her dark replica. Maybe then, if only for a few hours, she could accomplish this task without having someone disturb her throughout the entire way.  I'm here to kill a couple of Hollows who decided to form a nest here in Karakura Town, because Kyūbantai thinks their leader is a Vasto Lorde who wants to turn the place into her home,  she summarized quickly, not bothering to go into further detail. If the dark creature wanted more, she could always prod at her brain and find more there. In other words, she had achieved her part of this little deal that had formed between them in that moment: the was her replica's problem now.

Of course, the Inner Hollow didn't really care. If anything, she seemed to enjoy being told about this situation again. It made her visibly excited, enough so that her smile stretched and stretched until it became an inhuman visage. "Aaaah, V a s t o   L o r d e ~... Such a beautiful name. You can't understand how much I want to see a fight between you and that thing unfold, Kimiko-chan." Much of her face had now almost been swallowed by her smile, disfigured to the point that its original form was almost unrecognizable. A normal being would have bled all over from the sheer damage the disfigurement would have caused to the skin, the muscle and the bone. The Inner Hollow, however, remained unaffected. It was as though her whole body appeared to be liquid in that moment, a result of a drawing bathed in water rather than mere parchment. "You better not hesitate. Not this time. Child or not, innocent or not, I want you to tear it  l i m b  f r o m  l i m b ." 

Kimiko wanted to respond to that. She wanted to tell the creature that, unlike Kazuhiko or Ruhe or even Caballero, this was a Vasto Lorde whose plans were obvious. Their murder is most definitely at the top of the Captain's priorities for the time being. But before she could say anything, she then felt something that caused her to immediately look towards a particular spot in the distance. There, coming from a particular residential area of the town, was an impressive burst of spiritual energy. Not just any energy, but more specifically Hollow energy. Of course, being part of Kimiko allowed the Inner Hollow to detect the energy too, and in that moment, a snicker would came from her as her face suddenly seemed to glitch back to its original state, as though its deformation had never happened. "Well, well! It looks like someone was tired of waiting for someone to show up and kill it~. Now, come on, Kimiko-chan! Go make me proud!" 

The sentence caused the Captain to let out a frustrated and impatient huff, though again, she said nothing. Instead, she turned her body completely towards the source of the energy, then moved forward with the aid of Shunpo. With ultimate speed, she swiftly proceeded towards the spiritual energy, which was surprisingly not very difficult to follow. This should have been a good thing, but right now, she wasn't quite sure that it was. Why was that? Quite simple, really: it was because she wasn't very good at detecting spiritual energy. If she could detect that much from that far away, then this meant that she was going to have quite the target to take care of. Either that, or the nest the reports kept talking about will be right there for the taking, waiting for her to swoop in and take them all out. Whatever it was, it would most likely allow her to ignore her Inner Hollow for just a little bit longer, and quite frankly... that would be good enough in her eyes.

Or, well, so she thought.

When she arrived about less than a minute later, she found herself atop of yet another roof. This time, it was an apartment complex of sorts, one that was overlooking a scene that she wasn't quite sure of what to make of. At first, she thought she was staring at a man standing on a giant dead ant. The ant itself appeared to be a rather weak Hollow, which surprised Kimiko, since there was no way such a lowly being of Hueco Mundo could release that much spiritual energy. However, after a few more seconds of observation, she realized that it wasn't the ant that was releasing the energy, but rather the man. She also realized that the man was... eating the ant. Upon realizing this, her eyes shot wide and she couldn't help but simply watch for a moment. Meanwhile, her Inner Hollow stood in the air by the man's side, chuckling in amusement. "Pff, hahaha! What the hell! This is a surprise!" She laughed before clapping enthusiastically. "What an interesting man!"

Interesting? No. This was horrific. At least, it was to Kimiko. She had seen plenty of Hollows eat Humans before, but never before had she seen the contrary. It wasn't just because normal Humans couldn't see Hollows and therefore couldn't even hope to achieve something like this: it was instead because simply touching Hollows could cause a Human great pain. Henceforth, consuming a Hollow's flesh should quite literally a terrible agony... and yet, here he was, eating along all the same. "What the hell...!" She mumbled under her breath, eyes shot wide before she eventually found herself dropping from the top of the apartment complex. Then, she shouted at the man, evidently not recognizing him at all in the moment: "Hey! Hey, you!  STOP!  What the hell is the meaning of this?!"

That single order was loud. It boomed across the area, enough so that it would most definitely force the man to acknowledge her presence. Whether it scared him or not, Kimiko didn't care: she just wanted him to stop doing whatever he was doing so as to prevent him from potentially hurting himself any further. For all she knew, he could transform into a Hollow right then and there due to all that spiritual energy he was forcefully ingesting into his body.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Technique Used}
Technique Name: Akuma no Sakebi (悪魔の叫び, "Demon's Cry")

Technique Type: Other | Fear Inducement

Technique Element: None

Usable by: All races

Class: 2

Technique Reiatsu Cost: N/A

Technique Description and Effects

The projection of one's own will to strike fear in the hearts of others. The user channels the strength of their very soul within themselves before screaming it out with monstrous energy, similarly to how a beast howls or roars. Though it possesses no physical or spiritual attribute of note, the manifestation of this power is considered to be so intense that it can induce terror to the targets that have to face it. Those who do not possess an ability that would allow them to resist the effects of such a demonstration - namely a superior Strength of Will, Calm Mind, or Lack of Fear skill, or a Aura of 100 - will find themselves so taken aback by the scream that their combat performance will worsen, rendering them sluggish. Masters of this technique possess such fearsome cries that their targets are literally stunned by them for one post, unable to fight against the terror they have injected into their soul.


Drawbacks & Weaknesses

To unleash fear onto one or many beings at once, one must be able to be physically capable of unleashing such a thing in the first place, and unfortunately, there are a few who will be forever incapable of doing so. Some are simply too softhearted to even express such terrible power, while others are too discreet to even let out such a loud scream to begin with. Considering this, the main users of this technique will possess a Strength of Will skill of 3, which is just enough for them to be capable of properly unleashing Akuma no Sakebi. However, there is an alternative in the form of Dark Aura. Those who happen to be monstrous enough to possess fully-darkened energy will be capable of using this technique just as well as the aforementioned wilful individuals, for better or worse.


Made by: Nakajima Kimiko

Reserved? : No

[Raphael Laurent]

He ripped the creature's body apart, he devoured and he was enjoying every single moment. The feeling of hunger was slowly going away, the more that he devoured, the less hungry he felt, but he then wanted to consume more. There was an elation to the feeling of power, the feeling of being a predator that he couldn't quite explain. While his rational mind, what was left of it, at the moment, was trying to reason it out as him never having had enough control over his life, the rest of him didn't care. The feeling of finally eating his fill, finally ending the months of sheer and unadulterated starvation, were finally ending... Oh, this rapturous feeling...how he never wanted it to end!

Still, though he knew that, eventually, it needed to. It would have to stop, or else shinigami might find him sometime and attack or... even quincies. If Christopher could see him now there was no doubt in Raphael's mind that the man would be furious. In some way he had every right to be, and yet, in otherw, Raphael was the one truly wronged. The man had never told him what he was. For nearly twenty damn years Raphael had thought that he was just a normal human, with some abnormal abilities but now, now he knew. He knew exactly what he was, and the crimson that stained his hands only continued to grow.

At first he'd been using his hands, but by this point, he was starting to dig in with his very face, something of a shield of energy staving off the acid. He couldn't help himself anymore and he didn't want to! Shinigami be damned, quincy be damned! All of them constantly wanting to control him. To tell him how things were and were not, how they should or shouldn't be. This was his life and he was going to take control of it now. His power had erupted out once more, in jubilation.

That was when he heard it. A voice commanded him to stop and a feeling like Raphael had never felt before shot through his body. He turned to her, blood along his mouth, hands and clothes, eyes seeming to quiver with fear, for a moment, as th eman stopped. Then a smile, as unnatural and dark as any that a human could muster slowly spread along his face. it was one of those smiles that would normally only be seen on a movie screen, haunting the dreams of those that saw it, but this one was real, all too real. Slowly, Raphael turned to her.

"Ahhhh... This presence is familiar... Stronger, yes, but familiar all the same..." His spirit energy erupted in a fountain once more, the power feeling so very much like a hollow and a human intermingling. The sclera in his eyes were onyx black, and his eyes were as yellow as a piece of sulfur and his voice sounded so odd, like there were two talking at once. "Hello... shinigami-san. Do you remember poor little Raphael?" It chuckled. "Or perhaps... not so little anymore, eh?"

[Nakajima Kimiko]

Kimiko was only vaguely familiar with the concept of cannibalism. Or at least, she vaguely was with the true concept of it, for she had never really seen it outside of fiction or her nightmares. She understood its meaning and what it entailed, as well as what could potentially push someone to actually decide to go that far; after all, she seen once or twice while patrolling the outskirts of Rukongai, where food was scarce for those who unfortunately had the misfortune to have developed spiritual energy there. Hell, she was even pretty sure that her Inner Hollow had made her go through a fair share of terrible dreams that involved biting into her flesh and ripping it off from the bone. With that said, once again, she had never actually seen someone do it out of sheer volition alone in the real world. That required a bolder approach that most would not take, a certain kind of evil ambition that goes against their very nature as a being of the Living World.

Hollows, technically, are somewhat Human. They are lost souls trapped in an alien body designed for murder. However, they are also designed for consumption, so much so that their Humanity is effectively annihilated in the process. Because of this, one can hardly describe what the creatures of Hueco Mundo accomplish on a daily basis as cannibalism, because like the case of the unfortunate ones who remain within the outskirts of Rukongai, there is no real moral dilemma behind what they do. Either they eat or they die from a hunger, a most horrible death. Thus, Kimiko does not believe their actions to be reprehensible in any fashion. These actions are of course terrible, yes, and they are most definitely the main reason why the Soul Society has made it their task to exterminate them whenever their numbers become too great, but no one can truly see them as evil beings. That is, if we ignore the opinion of the ignorant and the foolish, such as those spouted by the uneducated Shinigami and the common Vandenreich slave.

But what this man was doing... 

Some would say that his act couldn't quite be described as cannibalism. While it is true that there is some spark of Humanity that remains within Hollows, they nevertheless are more beasts than men, and so a Human consuming them cannot really be qualified as an act of consumption of a person. In a way, it was akin to a baby deciding to eat a bug out of pure curiosity, an act of mindless yet innocent violence. However, in the Captain's eyes, what she saw then was not just a Human eating a live animal. Instead, she saw a living being - the shell of a soul which so far had remained pure - suddenly decide to beat a corrupted soul to death so as to eat it... simply because they wanted to. In other words, this wasn't just something that the one responsible for the act needed to do in order to survive, otherwise they would experience a most terrible death. No, this was an act with clear intent, a decision solely taken in order to experience the pleasure of it all.

The dual swordswoman detested the sight of it all. It repulsed her and made her want to put an end to the man's life then and there, not because he was supposedly the one responsible for the release of that spiritual energy, but because she hated what he was seeing. Meanwhile, the Inner Hollow who remained within her sight only laughed harder the more she watched the scene unfold. The laughter was so loud that it almost caused her entire face to contort even further into an open maw of pitch-black void. "S-So, Kimiko-chan, how should we call this one? A Humanollow? A Hollowman? Oh, no, no, wait... Devilman! Haha, yeah! Oh, wait, no... That one's already taken," she talked and talked and talked, spouting drivel that the Captain barely paid any attention to. She didn't have the time nor the motivation to deal with her teasing. Right now, she needed to know what this Human was doing, what was going to happen to them, and if they had any other intentions that were just as reprehensible.

So, she screamed at him. It was a powerful shout, one that carried with it an order of great magnitude. Perhaps fortunately for Kimiko, the man actually listened to her and stopped right then and there before he turned his gaze towards her. As to be expected from one who was previously gorging themselves on blood and guts, the sight was most terrible indeed. Even from where she stood, the Shinigami could see that almost the entirety of his face was covered in blood. There were even a few bits of the ant Hollow's exoskeleton hanging from his mouth and chin. More importantly, though, was the expression he carried. At first, he appeared to be frightened by the Captain, most definitely an after-effect of her previous order. But then, not long after he understood what he was looking at, his lips stretched as they twisted into a wicked smile. It was jolly, pleased and satisfied all at once. It was also clearly one of malice, of evil intent.

The Human then turned to Kimiko and began to speak. Apparently, that person knew her. No, not just because was a Captain of the Gotei 13, else they wouldn't have employed the word "familiar" in this conversation. For a brief moment, the thought of having met the man confused the superior officer, as she couldn't remember any Human throughout her career who supposedly had both the power to consume Hollows and the ability to release so much of the corrupt energy typically associated to the creatures of Hueco Mundo. But then, suddenly, he stared at her with those unnatural eyes and introduced himself properly with that strange voice of his. Raphael... That name... It was familiar to Kimiko. With a frown, she would find herself recalling the last years - no, decades - of her Shinigami career, attempt to remember each and every operation. It took some time, but eventually, she remembered a man who looked like this one, someone who granted her aid long ago. "You're... that Fullbringer...?"

She was unsure of the legitimacy of that guess. In the man's eyes, it had most likely only been three or four years, but in hers, it had been outright decades since they had last spoken. Such was the strange aspect of time in this strange world of theirs, of the discrepancy between the world they currently were both in and the world over there. With that said, if she truly guessed correctly, then this Human was the one who helped her take down those other Fullbringers and those corrupted Shinigami officers who were selling Hollows to criminal organizations. So many things have happened since then, so many that caused her to eventually outright forget about the man altogether. And yet, despite this, she always believed that he was still doing well here in the Living World, taking care of himself like any being of the Living World would. She never once thought that there was even a chance he could somehow turn into... this.

What the hell happened to him? That was a question that he wanted to ask the man right away. However, as she stared at Raphael, she had a feeling that she was not quite conversing with Raphael per say. No, she didn't, because there were things about his current state that she recognized right away. She wasn't sure how to explain it, but somehow, he almost appeared to be... possessed by an Inner Hollow of sorts. The black sclera, the vastly-different attitude, the corrupt energy that it kept releasing... Those were all things that would typically be showcased by a Vizard. She knew, because she saw herself in such a state back then, when Ailene had decided to return to Humanity. But how could this be? How could a Human, no matter how spiritual they may be, experience such a thing? She needed to know, and she will make sure to rip that transformation straight out of that devil's mouth. "Tch... What the hell are you supposed to be?" She growled, openly clenching her teeth to him. Meanwhile, her spiritual energy began to rise, causing cracks to form around her position as it pushed back against the surge which came out of Raphael. "Is he a Vizard?"

Might as well go straight to point. Otherwise, that thing will not take her seriously.

[Raphael Laurent]

There was an odd sensation to having surrendered to this feeling, this thing that was in him. He didn't know quite how this thing had come about, but it was like diving into an enormous lake. Above the surface things seemed calm, and yet beneath the surface of that lake, there was an incredible darkness. For so long he'd been treading the water, keeping his head above the lake, but now he'd simply decided to sink, if only for a few minutes. There was a beauty to that. The quiet and stillness was nice, for a time. Eventually he knew that he would have to wake up from the dream, he couldn't stay under the water forever. But maybe a few more minutes would be alright.

Humorous. Yet intriguing, at the same time. She didn't know quite what he was. In reality neither the entity, nor even Raphael himself, had much of an idea about what was going on between the two of the. Inquest. Curiosity. Knowledge. It thrived on these things and yet to be deprived the answers to such a puzzle and mystery made it all the happier. Maybe Raphael would see out the answers from someone! Maybe he would fall to despair and surrender? The possibilities were endless! It amde them both so... giddy.

"Hmm... What am I supposed to be? That is a wonderful question that, regrettably, lacks a complete answer..." It tapped on Raphael's chin. "The easiest way, and perhaps the most dismissive way to describe me...would be a manifestation of a power sealed within a soul for near two decades. I grew. I festered." It looked to her as her power exploded outwards as well. "Then, as the seal has collapsed, I have begun leaking out, my influence spreading in his mind, rooting if you will. This has caused hallucinations, hunger and a an evolution of both myself and him. You could consider him in a kind of...larval state, if you will. Or, apologies... more like a pupa..."

The followup question, however, sent not only waves of confusion, but a desire to learn something new. "Vizard...? No data available. Unknown parameter encountered. I would seriously doubt it, no. However, we were not the first. We don't believe that there is a term created for what is happening to Raphael." It stretched, popping a few bones. "Are we the first of our kind? I doubt it. I would wager, that any others turned far quicker... or simply still had their cages on them. Allow me to satiate your curiosity. I was locked within the boy's fullbring. For a long time. However, with its destruction, I was freed! Free to spread my glorious and benevolent influence into his mind, free to drive him insane as i wished, or to simply guide him towards new changes."

It looked up into the air, an almost melancholic smile, though certainly still deranged and twisted, spread across his face. "...now his life is in my hands and I can shape him as I will." Then it looked back to her. "...are you wanting to kill him? Or simply me?"

[Nakajima Kimiko]

Shortly following her questions, the Captain began to try her best to analyze what she was looking at. Quite frankly, she was still astonished by everything that was happening. For one, she hadn't expected that she would have ever met Raphael again, at least not for the near future. For all that she knew, their business was completed, and so there was no more need for them to meet again. For two, she always believed them to be a Fullbringer and only a Fullbringer, nothing more, nothing less. That was necessarily a bad thing: it just meant that there was no way they would become anything else but a stronger member of their kind. Finally, for three, she never once thought that they would have once allowed themselves to stoop so low. Of course, it had been a time since they had spoken to one another, and although this aforementioned time was much lessened in the Living World, there was still much that could happen to someone in a few years. Even so...

Maybe she should have expected something like this could happen. Although she has always believed that Vizards could only really be Shinigami, there was nothing that suggested that only Shinigami could become Vizards. After all, to become a Vizard, one's soul must simply be corrupted by Hollow energy in one way or another, or that was at the very least how she currently interpreted it. If that is the case, then surely, the same process could also happen to a Fullbringer somehow or any other being that wasn't connected to Hueco Mundo. With all of that being said, though, that was just a theory that had sprang up in her mind one day while she had nothing better to do. She never thought that it could become reality, much less one that she unfortunately would have had to face any time soon throughout her Shinigami career. And yet, here she was, borderline staring at what was pretty much a Human Vizard in the flesh and bone.

As she pondered on the matter, the creature spoke with that strange voice of his, responding to her questions with a sense of calm that could only come out of such a wicked being. To put it bluntly, the creature literally had no idea of what it was meant to be. He didn't believe that Raphael - the person that he was evidently possessing - was a Vizard, and he also didn't really know what he was supposed to be. In fact, he wasn't even aware of a term that could describe whatever being Raphael had somehow become. However, each and every word that came out of his mouth caused Kimiko to associate his characteristics to the Vizards', or at least her own. It just all sounded way too familiar to her, like she was staring at some kind of reflection of herself. Like him, she has so far being acting as a container for a creature that resided within her, and this has caused her to experience a multitude of side effects, such as hallucinations and other impacts on her psyche. So then... he could still be interpreted as a Vizard of sorts.

The creature then went on to describe itself just a little bit further, or rather, he went on to describe his kind. Apparently, he wasn't the first, and supposedly, he wasn't going to be the last. Why was that? Well, he believed that if there were others like him, then they were simply concealing their power for the time being, remaining hidden within the weapons of various Fullbringers. This caused Kimiko to first raise a brow in confusion, as though she didn't quite understand what the creature meant... or rather didn't want to understand. However, as she slowly considered the potency of such a fact, her eyes slowly started to widen. This was something that could occur to every Fullbringer? Every single one of them? And all they needed to do in order to be completely swallowed by the being within them was to simply break their Fullbring? But then, if that's true, that would mean that the Living World could be... conquered at any given moment.

For a brief moment, her head began to experience the same process it usually went through whenever she dealt with a particular dilemma. Questions rank amok, with new ones being sprouted with the passage of every single second, and with them came not more answers, but simply more questions that she could never hope to resolve. More and more, they began to occupy her head, all the while she watched her with that teasing smile of hers while she remained by the possessed Raphael's side. It was as though she wanted to see how Kimiko was going to react to this revelation, how she was going to treat this new fact. In response, the Captain would eventually stare back at her, her scarlet eyes locked into the silver sheen of her replica's mocking gaze, then she would arrive to a decision. Slowly but surely, her mind would begin to purge every one of the questions that had been birthed inside of its shell, then with a singular conclusion, her thoughts would finally declare one thing:

It didn't matter.

Perhaps the creature was lying. It was entirely possible that he was nothing more than a one-of-a-kind, and thus, his existence was ultimately an unique occurrence that could not be easily replicated. Perhaps, instead, he was telling the truth, and so there was indeed a dozen, if not hundreds of Fullbringers out there who possessed the potential to become beings such as he. Either way, it didn't matter to the Captain, because for now, they were not a threat. They were not showing any signs of hostility towards Humankind or the people of the Soul Society, and so pointing her attention towards it all and trying to find a solution to it was useless for the time being. One could say that this was an inconsequential conclusion in the long run, but for Kimiko, it wasn't. It allowed her to accomplish something that she has not done in a very long while: remove the questions in her mind and focus on the task at hand, if only for the duration of this conversation.

Her Inner Hollow almost appeared impressed in that moment. She blinked slowly, basking in the glory of Kimiko's self-achievement, then let out a quiet chuckle before she began walking towards the Shinigami. Then, with that wide smirk of hers, she would put her hand on the Shinigami's left shoulder before bending her body slightly against the Captain's. "There we go~. Was that so hard? You don't need to worry about anything else, Kimiko-chan~. All that matters is your target and nothing else," she first said lowly before she moved her other hand towards the hilt of the black blade. In response, Kimiko's hand automatically moved towards the blade to rest onto it, like she had allowed the creature to move it for her. "Now,  k i l l  that son of a bitch. Do it. Make him pay for being so weak~." 

Kimiko did not react to this. At least, not right away. It didn't seem as though she was bothered by her Inner Hollow's touching nor was she bothered by what she said. The reason why that was was simple, really: it was because she completely agreed with her. It was true that, right now, there was nothing that mattered but Raphael. That Hollow she came here to kill? She was irrelevant, some random "Vasto Lorde" that was most likely actually just another Adjuchas that she'll be able to kill in no time. In comparison, this was a more important threat, and therefore, a more interesting battle to be had. Moreover, it was also true that Raphael was weak. He should have been strong enough to resist the urge to let go for so long, to allow himself to be possessed by that being. Yet, instead, he was now reduced to a puppet, nothing more than a vessel for a being who evidently cared not for his safety, even if he kept trying to convince Kimiko that part of what he was doing was in response to the Fullbringer's will.

With that being said, she was not going to get rid of that thing just like her Inner Hollow wanted her to. Not yet, at least. While it was a threat to Raphael, there was still nothing that suggested that it wanted to do more than just be what it was for the time being. It was entirely possible that, eventually, the normal Raphael will return and that will be the end of this mess. So, in response to the being's last questions, she would let out a small grunt of annoyance before giving him a smirk. "Well, to be honest with you, I'm thinking about it right now!" She told him as her spiritual pressure continued to rise. The cracks around her feet were becoming more and more omnipresent, beginning to stretch towards the corrupted Fullbringer. More importantly, however, it would almost appear as though her energy was attempting to reach the man's own. "I don't like fighting cowards who hide behind meat shields. Usually, I always think of those as wastes of my time. But... I do want to kill you. I also don't have a lot of time to waste either. I mean, I still have that Hollow to kill, after all!" 

"So let's take this somewhere else."

It would be at that moment that the possessed Raphael would suddenly feel something strange. Without any warning, the energy that he had been releasing from his body would be latched onto by Kimiko's own spiritual energy, and the two of them would begin to enter a state of resonance. With each beat of their hearts, they would feel their consciousness separate themselves from the Living World as they were each transported into a different plane of existence. More specifically, they would be transported into a plane that was beyond the likes Kimiko had seen before, with Raphael himself being completely separated from the being in the process. Was this a risky move for her to take? Absolutely. In fact, she dare say that this was most likely one of the most reckless things she had ever done. However, like her Inner Hollow herself said, she didn't need to worry about anything else for the time being. All that she needed to worry about was Raphael and Raphael alone... and she was going to make sure that whatever being had taken hold of him was going to pay.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reiatsu: 6900/7000}
Technique Name: Jinzen: Kyōshin

Technique Class: 5 - 20 TTP

Technique Type: General Shinigami.

Usable By: Shinigami, Vizards.

Technique Element: N/A

Technique Cost: 100 Reiatsu.

Description: As Jinzen is a technique used to converse with one's Zanpakuto spirit. Kyōshin allows one the ability to enter the inner world of another performing Jinzen or perhaps allow an individual to enter their world. This in turn allows both to converse with their spirits respectfully or simply allows the two to speak in secret. Can be used with Instant Jinzen if learned, allowing two ample time to communicate in the heat of combat. Once learned this technique can only be used with one willing participant. Those proficient in the technique can be used with three. If mastered while used alongside Instant Jinzen one can forcibly bring another into their inner world or enter another's through contact for a short time(one post). This does not impact the outside world or create an advantage to those outside. For the period of time is brief and the entire exchange to an onlooker happens less than a second.

How to Use: Meditate alongside another, performing Jinzen and resonate your Reiatsu with the other, creating a link. If Instant Jinzen is known, simply resonate your Reiatsu with a willing participant.

Incantation: N/A.

Drawbacks: Stepping foot or allowing another to step into one's inner world can be a dangerous feat to attempt. One's Zanpakuto spirit may be aggressive and decide to turn hostile against the potential intruder. Also attempting to resonate with more than one other participant can be rather risky putting a heavy strain and fatiguing all those involved immensely. This technique, if mastered, cannot be forcibly used on those of higher class.

Made By: Aevus.

Reserved?: No.

---

Technique Name: Instant Jinzen

Class: 5

Technique Type: Cinematic

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects

Named after, and an improved version of, the classic Jinzen position, Instant Jinzen allows the user to communicate with their Zanpakuto Spirit even during the heat of battle. Allows the user to contact their Spirit for the duration of, at most, half a post. This is entirely a mental affair, and time flows differently for the user while using it. While not necessary for the Numbers techniques, this does allow one to work with their Spirits better.

How to use technique

Concentrate on Inner World, and expend Reiatsu to appear there, mentally.

Drawback

Costs Reiatsu to do, while the regular Jinzen position doesn't cost any. While time passes slower for the user while in their Inner World, they may be disoriented upon entering or exiting, due to how fast the switch occurs. Doesn't last nearly as long as the normal Jinzen does.

Made by: Taien Hadohou

Reserved? : No

[Raphael Laurent]

She seemed surprised by the revelations that it was giving her and it wondered if her brain had stopped while trying to puzzle everything out. There wasn't much that it knew about itself, beyond its nature and that was why it had forced Raphael to eat that hollow. It had been weak, so very weak and starving. Yet now it felt stronger, so much stronger. Not stronger than a being of the dead, such as the one before him, but enough to fight against one of the stronger hollows, on its own. True it was possessing Raphael, but that was the way that such things worked. He knew that he was not the only one. It had seen much the same happen with Luca, it knew that it was not the only one of its kind, that he and this man had once been friends.

Her pressure, her power, still dwarfed its own, but it knew that. It, however, was still growing, it still had so much room to expand... She, by contrast, was nearly at the limit of her soul's growth. Wasn't she? Perhaps, perhaps not. Was that the truth, though? Did it matter? Using Raphael's body... it could grow stronger and stronger. It could become the most powerful of all the hollows... couldn't it? Yet... There was so much more. There was so much more that it could do. So much more that it could get, that it could take! Without any issues, whatsoever, it could make Raphael do whatever it wanted. It controlled him, for once.

But... something changed. SHE changed, suddenly. What was the word? Determination? No... no. Intention? No... No, this was something even more intense than that... Conviction. Yes that was the word, conviction. Her spirit energy ballooned higher and more dense than his, the cracks down by her feet began pushing in its direction. It smiled as it looked to her. Though at her insistence of taking this "somewhere else" it could only blink. "What in the world are you talking about shinigami-s--" That was when it noticed, their powers, their auras... They were resonating, they were coming together... they were linking. In dawning horror it turned to her "You absolute b--!!" But before it cold complete its sentence, she had already pierced the veil.


Kimiko would experience a falling, like she was falling through water or a thicker liquid. Down and down and down she would fall, until suddenly in her fall, her feet seemed to land on a surface, though not of a material that she knew. It was almost like a drawing of the clearing of a forest. The grass was tall, there were rocks and trees... Yet there was no sound, as if she'd stepped into a void, and yet, at the center of the clearing, an individual sat upon a stump. He looked human, but he wore an outfit as green as leaves, his skin seemed to be as oaken as wood, and his hair was like moss, with two horns from his head and moss like hair. He was playing on a pan flute, the sound carrying all the way to her, but the truly peculiar thing was that there was color where he was. Near him the grass was green, the stump was a mahogany color and the sky behind him was blue and clear.

He looked at her, blinking in confusion, and then waved, and pushed himself from the stump, approaching quickly. The ground behind him seemed to fill in with color, as he did. "Greetings, o' traveler from beyond! It is a pleasure to have company, for the first time. I would like to welcome you to this humble artist's canvas." And then he placed a hand over his heart and bowed low in reverent greeting, before rising to look at her again. "To what do I owe the wonder of company, this eve?"

[Nakajima Kimiko]

Jinzen: Kyōshin. A sacred technique which allows a Shinigami to either permit one's presence within their Inner World. Long ago, by a master whose name is now unknown to many, this technique was conceived to allow the officers of the Gotei 13 to enter their comrades' psyche and directly communicate with those who remained within their weapons of choice, otherworldly beings most commonly referred to as Zanpakuto spirits. All one had to do was to simply adopt the Jinzen ritual's position by the side of their comrade, enter the signature state of meditation which usually follows it, and then begin to resonate one's spiritual energy with the other so as to create a link. As it requires a very particular emotional connection, the aforementioned link can typically only be created by two willing participants. Any form of aggression, frustration or even simpler emotions such as mere worry could break the link. However, the creator of this process found a way to circumvent this drawback, a solution of sorts that allowed a Shinigami to bring themselves into the Inner World of another without their consent. 

The solution, at a mere glance, was simple. All one had to do was to simply guarantee that the link created between the two participants would be immediately created - namely with the aid of another technique, Instant Jinzen - and then bolstered by another greater surrounding link. In turn, this greater link allows the original link to be shielded from the emotions of the participants, to be rendered resistant enough to last for a bit longer. Of course, the creation of this contraption was easier said than done for the one who aims to create this link. Firstly, the invader was still required to resonate their energy with their target's, which requires not only patience, but also determination and even a certain amount of wit, if only to distract their target from what is to come. Secondly, the invader is required to maintain this link with a continuous amount of their own spiritual energy, lest the surrounding link break apart from the strength of the target's adversity. Finally, the invader is required to be bold enough to even do it, which was an element that many often overlooked.

In this very moment, Kimiko could be described as the ideal invader. She had caught Raphael's captor by surprise, so much so that he had clearly not anticipated that the Captain would even employ such a tactic, and possessed more than enough spiritual energy in order to maintain the link between herself and the Fullbringer. More importantly, however, was her boldness, for this technique was not actually being used against its proper target. Indeed, this technique was only designed to interact with the warriors of the heavenly realm, for only they possessed beings within their weaponry across the worlds. But Raphael, as of now, was not a normal Fullbringer. He was an anomaly, a being who apparently possessed another being within his weapon up until its destruction... Therefore, Kimiko believed in that moment that she could invade his psyche so as to directly confront the being that had possessed him. That way, she could not hurt him if they went to do battle against one another, only the one who possessed him.

There was nothing that suggested that the plan was going to work. For all she knew, the link would have not been formed then, or it would have simply dragged the Fullbringer into Kimiko's own Inner World. Worse, the lack of any Zanpakuto near Raphael's person could have simply caused the technique to be completely incompatible, which could have led to terrible side effects from the spiritual backlash they would have both suffered in the moment. However, it was something that she needed to try then and there. If she couldn't, then she would have had to potentially fight Raphael's "Inner Hollow" right then and there, and there was no way for her to tell what kind of damage would have been inflicted to Karakura Town then. Fortunately for her, the process would somehow work. The link would be successfully created, and in one fell swoop, the consciousness of the two warriors would be immediately separated from the Living World. From now on, until this link is severed, they shall remain in the unknown realm produced by Raphael's power.

For the first few seconds following the creation of the link, the Captain felt the familiar feeling which came with the use of the technique. Her consciousness would sink into the ichor of the world, bathe in its substance, until it would be dragged further and further down away from the mess Raphael had created with that Hollow he devoured. During that time, her body became almost incorporeal, indescribable. It became a blur, a simple shape that could not see, speak, or hear throughout the duration of the great voyage. Further and further down she went, the pacing of her descent increasing the deeper she went, until she experienced a slight push against the bottom of her body as she slowed down. Slowly then, her body was made whole again, returned to its previous state, and with this return to normalcy would also be returned her primordial abilities. It was only a few moments later that she then felt the contact against the bottom of her sandals, the confirmation that the voyage had come to an end. By then, she would open her eyes once more, and observe.

What she saw then was something that she felt was almost familiar to something she had observed in her own Inner World. Before her, all around her, was a clearing of sorts. It was lush, vibrant, the kind to expect from the encompassing wilderness. However, it was not quite real. No... it instead appeared as though an artist of sorts had actually drawn the world around her, or rather its very basics, for there were no colors. There were no greens to expect from the plants, no greys to accompany the stones beside them, and no browns to decorate the bark of the nearby trees. Not even the sky possessed its typical blue. Instead, all was white... and more importantly, silent. Kimiko found herself gazing at the strange scenery, sharing its silence, before she found herself humming quietly, almost as if she was about to say some kind of remark to it all. However, she had no time to do so, for she then found herself noticing a particular being standing in the middle of the clearing.

She wasn't really sure of how to describe the being. He appeared to be a normal Human man, but further observations immediately shot this conclusion down in a heartbeat. If anything, he reminded Kimiko of a few ancient mythological creatures often depicted in fantastical works of the Living World. He also wasn't Raphael, and oddly enough, the nature surrounding his presence actually was colored in contrast to what surrounded her. Was this supposed to be the creature possessing the Fullbringer? The Captain wasn't sure. So far, there was nothing that suggested that this wasn't his "Inner Hollow", but there was also nothing that suggested that it was. In so doing, she was at an impasse. For a very brief moment, she would find herself pondering about the matter, wondering if it would even be a good idea to actually converse with this being. After a time, though, she would proceed onward towards his position, albeit carefully. Better to attempt to find an answer than to remain forever oblivious.

As to be expected, the horned man would eventually notice her presence. He was evidently surprised that she was even there to begin with, but he didn't appear to be very angry about it. Instead, he greeted her politely, speaking to her with a dialect that appeared to be just about as fantastical as his appearance and the scenery of the area. Kimiko wasn't particularly taken aback by this; after all, Zanpakuto spirits could be quite odd in both appearance and attitude. What she was more taken aback by was instead the fact that this being even existed in the first place. However, his attitude was at least appreciated. Thus, she would return it in kind. "Likewise! I'm Nakajima Kimiko, Captain of the Eleventh Division of the Gotei 13 and owner of the Nijūkan schools of swordsmanship. Nice to meet you, uh...?" She would introduce herself with her signature smile, the kind that she always presented to her students in the Soul Society, then give a chance for the man to properly do the same. Then, after all was said and done, she would answer his question: "I'm looking for the guy who's taken over Raphael. Do you have any idea where I could find him?"

For now, she wasn't really expecting this being to answer her question. In fact, considering that this was the very first time he even had company, she was even doubting that he knew who Raphael even was. It would not be surprising to learn that Raphael had never met him and, therefore, never had come to make his acquaintance. With that said, it was still worth a shot. Besides, it's not like there was anything else out here but him and discolored flora.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reiatsu: 6800/7000}
Technique Name: Jinzen: Kyōshin

Technique Class: 5 - 20 TTP

Technique Type: General Shinigami.

Usable By: Shinigami, Vizards.

Technique Element: N/A

Technique Cost: 100 Reiatsu.

Description: As Jinzen is a technique used to converse with one's Zanpakuto spirit. Kyōshin allows one the ability to enter the inner world of another performing Jinzen or perhaps allow an individual to enter their world. This in turn allows both to converse with their spirits respectfully or simply allows the two to speak in secret. Can be used with Instant Jinzen if learned, allowing two ample time to communicate in the heat of combat. Once learned this technique can only be used with one willing participant. Those proficient in the technique can be used with three. If mastered while used alongside Instant Jinzen one can forcibly bring another into their inner world or enter another's through contact for a short time(one post). This does not impact the outside world or create an advantage to those outside. For the period of time is brief and the entire exchange to an onlooker happens less than a second.

How to Use: Meditate alongside another, performing Jinzen and resonate your Reiatsu with the other, creating a link. If Instant Jinzen is known, simply resonate your Reiatsu with a willing participant.

Incantation: N/A.

Drawbacks: Stepping foot or allowing another to step into one's inner world can be a dangerous feat to attempt. One's Zanpakuto spirit may be aggressive and decide to turn hostile against the potential intruder. Also attempting to resonate with more than one other participant can be rather risky putting a heavy strain and fatiguing all those involved immensely. This technique, if mastered, cannot be forcibly used on those of higher class.

Made By: Aevus.

Reserved?: No.

---

Technique Name: Instant Jinzen

Class: 5

Technique Type: Cinematic

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects

Named after, and an improved version of, the classic Jinzen position, Instant Jinzen allows the user to communicate with their Zanpakuto Spirit even during the heat of battle. Allows the user to contact their Spirit for the duration of, at most, half a post. This is entirely a mental affair, and time flows differently for the user while using it. While not necessary for the Numbers techniques, this does allow one to work with their Spirits better.

How to use technique

Concentrate on Inner World, and expend Reiatsu to appear there, mentally.

Drawback

Costs Reiatsu to do, while the regular Jinzen position doesn't cost any. While time passes slower for the user while in their Inner World, they may be disoriented upon entering or exiting, due to how fast the switch occurs. Doesn't last nearly as long as the normal Jinzen does.

Made by: Taien Hadohou

Reserved? : No

[Raphael Laurent]

There was so much that didn't make sense about this place, there was so much that even the figure in front of her knew was so peculiar about the situation. The place, most certainly, should not have existed, he himself, most likely, should not exist, nor should the other spirit possessing Raphael have existed. Yet the entity gave her a smile as she seemed to ponder who, and or what, he was; it was not an easy thing to figure out. What they were was a bit of a mystery, as it should be and as they kept it so. Yet her kindness, her calm demeanor, all of it seemed to be appreciated by the fae-like figure. He smiled to her gently as she introduced herself as the captin of one of the shinigami squads and he clapped his hands for a moment or two.

"Quite a pleasure to meet you, Nakajima Kimiko! It is quite wonderful, though... exceptionally odd to meet one of the leaders of the shepards. How in the world did you slip through the fissure?" He tilted his head to Kimiko a moment, stroking his chin in thought, curiosity seemed to be a main feature of the individual. Then he snapped his fingers, nodding. "Ah, names, yes! My apologies. I've never spoken with anyone and have never had to give my name before." He gave a bit of an almost embarrassed chuckle before placing a hand over his chest, head bowing in a reverent fashion. "My name comes in many different languages, but for your sensibilities, you may call me Hikisaku."

Hikisaku listened to her for a moment, stroking his chin once more, as she spoke. "Raphael? Raphael, Raphael..." He snapped his fingers once more. "Oh! Do you mean the young lord? The from whom I draw the inspiration for my paintings and record the stories?" He looks at her a moment worried. "If you're here... Oh, no. Has something befallen the young lord? Wait... Wait... Did you say "taken over"?!" Hikisaku sighed, shaking his head. "I was concerned that such a thing might happen... The young lord, unfortunately, lacks a bit of discipline. It is regrettable. He was not raised and has not been trained by other fullbringers and...well, the way he is..." Hikisaku shook his head. "I do hope that the demon hasn't caused too much trouble, out there... Yes, please. Come with me. I'll take you to him. there are things I'd like to show you, regardless." The entity smiled and started walking down the path out of the "woods".

If she followed him, she would watch as the world continued to bloom with different colors, trees, grass and rocks filling in and, as they did, the sounds of birds and insects rose along with the color. The entity continued leading her down the path, before the thin trail opened back up again. On either side there were paintings, multiple paintings of various different events. "Here is the gallery. There are multiple important events that happened that I have painted, all on display. Such as when the young lord and his precocious friend visited a..." He stopped mid-sentence, as he gestured to the painting, showing Raphael and another young man in peasant clothes of a suspiciously familiar edo period Japanese town. Kimiko might recognize it, if she looked close enough, though Hikisaku didn't seem keen on expounding on the subject matter. And as they kept going, she'd see a painting of her, facing down the possessed Raphael, though it didn't seem to be quite complete, there was something missing at the bottom. "Alright... The demon is just down the woods there..."

Hikisaku paused for a moment, before turning away from the painting and looking her in the eyes. "I have... two things to say to you, Ms Shepard. The first is that I implore and beg you to not kill the demon. Trouble maker and meanie, though he is, he is as integral to this place as I am. He is my night, and my darkness. Without him, this place will fall out of balance and that cannot happen, please. Second..." He paused a moment, watching her, pensively. "I would ask that you consider your actions and words very carefully. You do not yet know it, but what you do here and out there will heavily impact the young lord. What my counterpart told you out there... it was not wrong. The young lord is currently undergoing a form of metamorphasis, in both soul and in thought and idea. Right now you have the most power to help shape the way that he sees things, but such power is directly within your power." He bowed his head and stepped back, gesturing to an extremely dark part of the forest. "...the demon awaits you, in there. Just bear in mind what I've said." And with that, it turned back to the painting, waiting and allowing her to proceed deeper in.

[Nakajima Kimiko]

Kimiko was indeed not expecting the horned man to give her a name either. She gave him a chance, an opportunity of sorts to create an identity for himself, but ultimately, she knew that it was entirely possible that the being simply could not answer her. Mere minutes ago, when the consciousness of both she and the possessed Raphael were still in the Living World, it was entirely possible that there was once absolutely nothing in this place and this horned man did not exist at all. But now, here he was. The fact that this was a potential side-effect of the use of Jinzen: Kyōshin was already rather worrying enough in the eyes of the Captain, as there was no way to tell if this was going to lead Raphael to develop other, potentially-harmful side effects. With that all being said, she wouldn't have much to think about it, as the being before her would then go on to surprisingly introduce himself to her, and seemingly without any hesitation too.

Hikisaku. That was his name... and quite the peculiar one at that. Enough so, even, that it caused Kimiko to briefly give it some of her attention in the moment. One thing that she has come to realize when it came to purely-spiritual entities such as the ones who remain within Zanpakuto, it is that their names typically mean are meant to appear as some kind of metaphor. For example, the names of her own blades - Shizukakane and Taishokukane - were both Japanese names which respectively meant "Quiet Bell" and "Fading Bell" in the general spiritual language, and they both were meant to be allegories to their abilities. However, in comparison, the name Hikisaku meant "Rend" or "Split". Ignoring the fact that it was in Japanese as well, given that the being had made sure to respect that convention out of consideration for the Captain's own native language, this caused the superior officer to pause. Why was he called like that? Was this also an allegory to an ability? No, that was unlikely. It had been a while since she had seen Raphael in action, but she couldn't remember him splitting anything through some kind of ability. So then... did it refer to Raphael's psyche?

It was unclear whether this was true or not, though the explanations that the spirit granted to her thereafter did seem to hint at this particular possibility. The way he referred to Raphael as a "young lord" and declared him as his main inspiration for his paintings and stories said as much. Even then, it remained unclear to Kimiko who couldn't help but blink inquisitively at the mention of paintings. Before she could try to ask Hikisaku about them, however, he would go to openly express his worries of Raphael being taken over by the malevolent being who currently controlled him. The horned man spoke quickly, preventing the Captain from finding a good time to interject in-between his words, but the information that he somewhat provided to her were interesting. "The way he is...?" She would try to at least push him to finish that sentence of his, if only to perhaps gain a little bit more information on what Raphael was truly supposed to be. Whether he answered her or not, however, she would go on to then follow him towards what the man wanted to show her.

The trip towards their next destination was admittedly more pleasant than Kimiko expected it to be. Perhaps it was because of the colors that kept popping out of Hikisaku as he moved throughout the forest. As he walked onward and she followed him in two, the world almost appeared to come to life before her eyes. The sky became a stark bright blue, the grass and the trees an almost-blinding green. Even the rocks, such things that are not meant to be very beautiful in sight, almost shone with grey glory. It was beautiful, and the more the Captain observed the phenomenon, the more she couldn't help but feel rather enamored about it. Was this a trap? There was nothing that suggested that it wasn't; after all, for all she knew, Hikisaku could actually be the "demon" he mentioned during his earlier rambles. Even so, it was difficult for her to not appreciate the art. In a way, it reminded her of her own Inner Worlds, even through they were different paintings, so to speak.

Then, down the path Hikisaku led Kimiko onto, they finally reached a clearing. It didn't look like much at a first glance; in fact, it looked similar to the clearing in which she had met the horned being. However, the difference was that in this clearing were a few paintings set about the place. The paintings were set upon a number of easels and they each appeared to depict some kind of scene. From the looks of them, Raphael was present in every one of them. "What is this place?" Kimiko would go on to ask so as to hopefully get some answers from Hikisaku. Fortunately, the man would do just that. He would tell her about what the paintings were supposed to represent, how they were meant to be "important events" that Raphael had gone through. In other words, they were memories. Upon understanding this, the Captain would look towards the paintings again, this time out of sheer and somewhat-selfish curiosity. Yes, it was childish of her and even rather impolite. Nobody wants people to look into their lives, much less their literal memories. However, she couldn't really stop herself in the moment.

Naturally, she did not really recognize most of the paintings. The most of them appeared to show Raphael meeting people that the Captain simply didn't know, while others instead showcased battles against certain opponents. Yet she was able to recognize two of the paintings at a glance. The first was the one which depicted her meeting with the possessed Fullbringer, which surprised her. Although the drawing was indeed incomplete, its existence must have allowed Hikisaku to at least understand that something had actually happened to Raphael. How suspicious. Meanwhile, the second painting appeared to depict... Rukongai? "Oh, he came to the Soul Society?" She observed with a tone that almost seemed threatening, like she wanted to scold the Fullbringer for having done something like that. That was, until, she then comically completely changed her expression to a more cheerful one. "He should visit again! I could give him a visit to one of my schools! I bet he'd like it there."

Moving on rather quickly from this subject which evidently didn't bother her in the slightest, Kimiko would then turn her gaze towards the demon's domain, the woods Hikisaku had pointed to. Her scarlet eyes would gaze upon the path for a moment, noting how dark it appeared to be in contrast to even the least colorful part of the forest she had found herself in. Then, she would listen to the horned man's warnings. Hearing them was enough to cause her to frown seriously as she considered their meaning in full. Frankly, she did not like what Hikisaku told her. She already had enough responsibilities and she already had failed to uphold one of them. Thus, simply knowing that just one mistake would lead Raphael to potentially experience an extremely-negative evolution, or whatever else the horned man wanted to tell her then... It was almost enough to outright convince her to break the link of her technique right then and there. Unfortunately, she also knew that she didn't have a choice but to proceed onward. If she decides to break the link, the fight that would then ensue would most likely be catastrophic for Karakura Town.

Her scarlet eyes would eventually turn towards Hikisaku as she considered her options. Judging by her gaze alone, he'd be able to tell that she wasn't really sure if she wanted to go. However, after a time, he would notice a certain fire in the scarlet, a drive of sorts. It was such that it almost cause her gaze to beam with great intensity. Eventually, she would close her eyes with a hum, preventing the horned man from gazing any further at the fire of her soul, before she would then give him a reassuring smile. "You remind me of them," she said then as her hands remained close to her blades. After that, she looked back towards the dark woods and began to walk towards them. "Don't worry. I didn't really come here to kill that asshole. I just wanna talk to him."

As she proceeded onward, Hikisaku would be able to notice that a dark shadow was walking by Kimiko's side as she proceeded onward. Her words were not the product of wisdom. They were the product of experience.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reiatsu: 6700/7000}
Technique Name: Jinzen: Kyōshin

Technique Class: 5 - 20 TTP

Technique Type: General Shinigami.

Usable By: Shinigami, Vizards.

Technique Element: N/A

Technique Cost: 100 Reiatsu.

Description: As Jinzen is a technique used to converse with one's Zanpakuto spirit. Kyōshin allows one the ability to enter the inner world of another performing Jinzen or perhaps allow an individual to enter their world. This in turn allows both to converse with their spirits respectfully or simply allows the two to speak in secret. Can be used with Instant Jinzen if learned, allowing two ample time to communicate in the heat of combat. Once learned this technique can only be used with one willing participant. Those proficient in the technique can be used with three. If mastered while used alongside Instant Jinzen one can forcibly bring another into their inner world or enter another's through contact for a short time(one post). This does not impact the outside world or create an advantage to those outside. For the period of time is brief and the entire exchange to an onlooker happens less than a second.

How to Use: Meditate alongside another, performing Jinzen and resonate your Reiatsu with the other, creating a link. If Instant Jinzen is known, simply resonate your Reiatsu with a willing participant.

Incantation: N/A.

Drawbacks: Stepping foot or allowing another to step into one's inner world can be a dangerous feat to attempt. One's Zanpakuto spirit may be aggressive and decide to turn hostile against the potential intruder. Also attempting to resonate with more than one other participant can be rather risky putting a heavy strain and fatiguing all those involved immensely. This technique, if mastered, cannot be forcibly used on those of higher class.

Made By: Aevus.

Reserved?: No.

---

Technique Name: Instant Jinzen

Class: 5

Technique Type: Cinematic

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects

Named after, and an improved version of, the classic Jinzen position, Instant Jinzen allows the user to communicate with their Zanpakuto Spirit even during the heat of battle. Allows the user to contact their Spirit for the duration of, at most, half a post. This is entirely a mental affair, and time flows differently for the user while using it. While not necessary for the Numbers techniques, this does allow one to work with their Spirits better.

How to use technique

Concentrate on Inner World, and expend Reiatsu to appear there, mentally.

Drawback

Costs Reiatsu to do, while the regular Jinzen position doesn't cost any. While time passes slower for the user while in their Inner World, they may be disoriented upon entering or exiting, due to how fast the switch occurs. Doesn't last nearly as long as the normal Jinzen does.

Made by: Taien Hadohou

Reserved? : No

[Raphael Laurent]

Each question that she ased, Hikisaku wold answer to the best of his ability. Rend. Such was his name. Answer, though he would give, time was of the essence and he'd allowed her to go on, and yet still he gazed at the painting, pensively. Raphael wished a conclusion to this, he could feel it, but... well, he was afraid that there was no true conclusion. Whether by conscious choice, or by pure coincidence, the destruction of his fullbring had changed many things considerably. Hikisaku slowly put up another painting, a large suit of armor holding a two blades, one large, almost like a saber and a smaller short blade, as he watched her march into the unknown, the shadow trailing beside her and smiled. "I believe you, Nakajima Kimiko. If only he'd run into you sooner..." Though he did seem to either not hear her about Raphael visiting again or simply didn't responde. Most likely because it wasn't his place.

Any relaxed feeling that she could've derived from the earlier part of the forest would quicly evaporate here. There was no little light and no sound. The forest was a veritable void. What little light that she could see by, that illuminated the trees in such a dark and macabre fashion, came from what seemed to be roots, glowing red. She could follow them fairly easily as they all seemed to lead to the same place, another enormous clearing, though this one was lit by the light of a full moon.

The path, and the enormous roots, led to yet another clearing bathed in the pale light of the moon above. This one was far more rooted in color, albeit they were all darker colors. In the center of this clearing there was a dragon, sleeping in front of a large flower. It was black with white petals, and red roots seemed to spread out to every corner of the forest, at least as far as she could see. Yet, the dragon is what seemed to confront her, an eye opening, as even it seemed to, at the very least, smell her approaching. Its wings unfurled, protectively..

"Ah... Shinigami-san... Welcome to the garden. The truth, if you will, of all that is Raphael. The darkness and the lifeblood of his power. Welcome to my domain... Tell me, did you enjoy meeting with Hikisaku, my counterpart and jailer? You probably didn't notice when you entered... but this place has a seal around it. A seal to trap me, and meant to prevent me from influencing this young man further. That was the secret, that was what his fullbring truly was!" It raised a wing, brushing it gently along the flower, and the world shook. "You've come all this way, simply for me? Or have you come for answers on the young fool, he who lacks?"

[Nakajima Kimiko]

Kimiko's onward march towards the dark woods for some time. For how long, exactly, she wasn't quite sure. Throughout what felt like minutes on end, she watched as the substance of her surroundings was slowly and completely left behind her, only to be replaced by something that was dark and empty. There, she walked, and walked, and walked even further, and the more she did, the deeper the frown that had formed on her face would become. This pitch-black hole, this complete absence of life in every sense of the word... She knew that it wasn't the same one that was so familiar to her, and yet it reminded her of that particular piece of darkness that she was forced to remain in every time she went to sleep as of late. Even now, as she took more steps onward, she could recall the figures that she saw then in the darkness. She could recall her parents, as muddy and unclear their figures had started to become. She could recall Yumi's mangled, eaten corpse. She could recall the remains of the zombified children she was forced to cut in half. She could recall them all... without fail.

Of course, these memories were not entirely of her own doing. This was something that she had come to realize as she continued moving further into the darkness, because she had come to understand the darkness surrounding her in this present time wasn't the doing of Raphael's world. Instead, it was the doing of the thing that was beside her. The Captain had noticed her, of course. When she left Hikisaku behind in the painted clearing, she had felt the presence of the shadow beside her and she had understood that it was her Inner Hollow's reduced form. At the time, as short as that moment was, she had hoped that she wouldn't have had to deal with her here, of all places. Yet, intrinsically, she did not believe that her presence did not make sense. This was a spiritual world, a place created by spiritual matter purely for spiritual beings, and unfortunately for her, the Inner Hollow was a spiritual being as much as Hikisaku, the demon possessing Raphael, and the Captain's Zanpakuto spirits all were. Therefore, she was as welcome here as any other spiritual being would.

It would appear that the shadow noticed her organic prison's noticing, for once Kimiko made a mental note of its presence, it began to change. Slowly, its dark form became clearer in the darkness. The jet black that the surroundings previously concealed became paler and paler until it made way for the figure the Shinigami had now become so familiar with: a studious replica of herself, complete with a school uniform and glasses. Still sporting that same teasing smile as always, she walked onward by Kimiko's side in the dark, humming quietly to herself. At first, she said nothing, almost as if she was simply enjoying the moment of peace between them. It wasn't often that the two of them could simply find themselves in a place like this outside of the nightmares, and it was even less often that they more or less stood on an equal level within which Kimiko could not completely be dominated by her presence. But eventually, a few minutes later in the dark, she couldn't open but open her mouth, another familiar trait of hers that she kept on repeating within each of their encounters.

"So, this guy is interesting, isn't he? First, he shows us that he can eat Hollows. Then, he shows us that he has a whole Inner World inside of him! If this goes on, this demon of his will reveal to us that he was a Shinigami all along. Well, a Shinigami in denial, that is~." A laugh escaped her lips after her little ramble. She was obviously amused by the development of this situation, and was evidently curious about this whole affair in a rather-playful fashion. It was the kind of feline attitude that she knew Kimiko hated, the kind that she knew pushed the Captain's buttons. Shortly after she laughed, however, another hum would escape her lips as she gazed at the dual swordswoman from the corner of her eye. She almost seemed concerned. Almost. "You know, Kimiko-chan, it's not nice of you to lie to me. I thought you told me you wanted to kill this weakling! And yet, here you are, trying to fix somebody else again. Ah, ah... What a waste of our time."

At this point, the Inner Hollow believed that the Captain was going to ignore her again, and so she almost seemed prepared to unleash yet another hallucination onto Kimiko. It was part of their game, after all, and so far, the Shinigami was playing along, even if it obviously bothered her. With that said, right as her face began to distort again with her eyes beginning to stretch through her forehead, it would immediately return to normal once she realized that Kimiko's own face had snapped right back towards her. "What's the point of killing him, exactly?" She openly asked this time around, leaving the Inner Hollow - who was by then used to reading the Shinigami's mind - somewhat stunned. Before she could actually form an answer, the Captain then snorted. "Let me guess. It's for the fun of it, right? The killing, the torturing, all that crap. You want to see what's gonna happen next, so you do it. That's your default answer to basically anything you do."

The Inner Hollow said nothing at first. Instead, she merely stared back in silence, unable to say anything as the gears in her dark mind clicked and clacked. Then, she slowly straightened herself and let out an amused huff. "Look at you, finally learning how to actually talk back to me! All it took was four fucking decades, but it paid off. This new game of mine sure is more fun than the last one we were playing~," she concluded before she put her hands behind her head in a relaxed fashion. Her confidence had been briefly wounded by Kimiko's words, but it was evidently not enough to cause it to crack. Really, at this point, there was potentially nothing that could. "Obviously, I want to see where this goes! That's the whole point of my games. If I cannot get anything out of them, then there's really no point in life, isn't it? Oh, and besides, don't tell me you don't think that's fun! I mean, isn't the whole point of a teacher to see what comes next for their students?" 

"It is, but you don't need to kill or torture something to see how things are gonna go after the fact," Kimiko retorted then as she turned her face back onward towards her front, where the darkness further stretched onward and onward still. "Pain is a good of teaching. It's the best tool one can use to punish someone whenever they do something bad. However, there's a limit to how useful pain can be. What do you think is gonna happen if I beat up my students all the time?" A silence came after she posed her question, as though she was hoping her Inner Hollow would actually answer it. Noticing that the creature was actually refusing to answer her question in a fit of teasing, the swordswoman would roll her eyes before answering the question for her. "When that happens, all a teacher creates is broken students who will want nothing to do with them. It's not going to allow them to reach their full potential. If anything, those students will either become useless or they will become somehow even worse than that."

"And yet, here you are."

It was this simple answer from the Inner Hollow that caused the Shinigami to turn her gaze towards the dark being, then frown before looking back towards the darkness. At first, she did not say a thing after that, something that appeared to cause the Inner Hollow's grin to become inhumanly stretching out once more. Then, again, her expression returned to normal once a dark smile came to Kimiko. "Yeah. That's true. Somehow, I was able to power through your shit without breaking up. I guess I'm just built different, and so are some other people I know," she would say with a tone of disbelief at first up until it then became more resolute, "but not everyone is built like that. You and I both know this, and so does Hikisaku. So, I want to give Raphael another path. I'm not gonna kill him, because if I do, then we'll probably get nothing more out of him. I'm also not gonna kill that demon thing, because then, it might hurt him to the point that he'll become useless. Instead, we're gonna figure something else out. If we can't do that... then, I'll think about it."  

The Inner Hollow would say nothing then. Instead, she merely continue walking in silence, contemplating what Kimiko had just said in silence. It was clear that practically everything Kimiko had just said was a challenge to her ideals and that it was going to take some time before she could formulate anything of note. However, it was also clear that she was still pleased by that particular development, and the Captain could tell. Why? It was simple, really: it was because the Inner Hollow hadn't even bothered to try changing her body to traumatize her or attempted to attack her so as to inflict physical pain. Hell, she didn't even try to take over her body right then and there, or even to respond to her current mental judgment of this situation. She simply took in Kimiko's opinion and accepted it. Was it still odd for the Captain to suddenly understand the dark half of herself so well? Yes. Yes, it was. With that said, in a way, it was somewhat comforting. It was as though everything that she had gone through across the aforementioned last four decades because of that replica finally could lead to something tangential.

And then, just as soon as their conversation came to an end, they arrived to their destination.

Following the pitch-black darkness of the uncolored woods was another clearing illuminated by moonlight. Unlike the last one she had found herself in alongside Hikisaku, this particular location was much more ominous in aspect, in spite of being colored to a certain extent. It appeared sick, stricken by countless red roots that spread about the grounds like a cancer. Then, in the middle of the clearing was the source of the roots remaining before a great flower. At a glance, it appeared to be an immense beast, a dragon of impressive proportions that almost dwarfed the entirety of the clearing all by itself. It did not take long for it to notice Kimiko and her Inner Hollow. The moment the both of them found themselves in this space, it would raise its body and unfurl its wings, then welcome them both to the "garden", as it referred it to. In response, the Shinigami's pale and scholarly replica chuckled. "I like this guy already! Scratch that, Kimiko-chan, I'm not gonna call this Raphael guy Devilman. I'm gonna call him Ryu. No, no, Ryu-san."  

"You can shut up now," Kimiko would huff, evidently starting to lose a bit of her patience regarding the dark being's rather childish attitude. Then, with crossed arms, she would turn her attention back towards the dragon before taking a listen to what it had to say. The beast spoke of the area as being a sort of prison preventing it from spreading it any further, which explained the apparent inability for the roots on the ground to spread any further than they already had. It also presented Hikisaku as its jailer of sorts, someone who prevented it from ever leaving this place. It was all interesting information, and she would make sure to take note of it before she went on to open her mouth with as much confidence as she could possibly muster without being intimidated by the beast. "Both, actually. However, I am not here to kill you. That was just a way for me to make sure we could have this conversation. Instead, I want us to figure out how we're gonna deal with this." 

In this moment, she would decide to approach the dragon. She made no attempts to threaten it or to release her spiritual energy in an offensive fashion, which would allow the fantastical being to further understand the nature of her power. Now that she was here alongside her replica, it could see that they not only both possessed the same energy signature, but also the same splendor and darkness all at once. It did not know what a Vizard was, but it would be able to understand that she was more than just a normal Shinigami. Whether it made note of this or not, she would then cross her arms and look up towards it. "Let's start with something simple. Who are you? Do you have a name like Hikisaku, or do you not? If you don't, we can make one for you." 

"I still think Ryu is a good name~."

"... That... works... unless you want one that is less literal."

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reiatsu: 6600/7000}
Technique Name: Jinzen: Kyōshin

Technique Class: 5 - 20 TTP

Technique Type: General Shinigami.

Usable By: Shinigami, Vizards.

Technique Element: N/A

Technique Cost: 100 Reiatsu.

Description: As Jinzen is a technique used to converse with one's Zanpakuto spirit. Kyōshin allows one the ability to enter the inner world of another performing Jinzen or perhaps allow an individual to enter their world. This in turn allows both to converse with their spirits respectfully or simply allows the two to speak in secret. Can be used with Instant Jinzen if learned, allowing two ample time to communicate in the heat of combat. Once learned this technique can only be used with one willing participant. Those proficient in the technique can be used with three. If mastered while used alongside Instant Jinzen one can forcibly bring another into their inner world or enter another's through contact for a short time(one post). This does not impact the outside world or create an advantage to those outside. For the period of time is brief and the entire exchange to an onlooker happens less than a second.

How to Use: Meditate alongside another, performing Jinzen and resonate your Reiatsu with the other, creating a link. If Instant Jinzen is known, simply resonate your Reiatsu with a willing participant.

Incantation: N/A.

Drawbacks: Stepping foot or allowing another to step into one's inner world can be a dangerous feat to attempt. One's Zanpakuto spirit may be aggressive and decide to turn hostile against the potential intruder. Also attempting to resonate with more than one other participant can be rather risky putting a heavy strain and fatiguing all those involved immensely. This technique, if mastered, cannot be forcibly used on those of higher class.

Made By: Aevus.

Reserved?: No.

---

Technique Name: Instant Jinzen

Class: 5

Technique Type: Cinematic

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects

Named after, and an improved version of, the classic Jinzen position, Instant Jinzen allows the user to communicate with their Zanpakuto Spirit even during the heat of battle. Allows the user to contact their Spirit for the duration of, at most, half a post. This is entirely a mental affair, and time flows differently for the user while using it. While not necessary for the Numbers techniques, this does allow one to work with their Spirits better.

How to use technique

Concentrate on Inner World, and expend Reiatsu to appear there, mentally.

Drawback

Costs Reiatsu to do, while the regular Jinzen position doesn't cost any. While time passes slower for the user while in their Inner World, they may be disoriented upon entering or exiting, due to how fast the switch occurs. Doesn't last nearly as long as the normal Jinzen does.

Made by: Taien Hadohou

Reserved? : No

[Raphael Laurent]

The draconic, hollow-like being, folded its wings, before it pushed itself to its feet, still standing between Kimiko and the flower, semi-protectively it would seem. It stood nearly ten feet tall, with a wingspan of what could be estimated to be sixty feet wide. It was dark black, standing out against the pale light of the moon above. It stood in a regal, yet respectful way; it knew that it was standing in the presence of one that was stronger that it was, yet it would not abandon its pride. It regarded her with dull, ember red eyes, scrutinizing her and this darker half, puzzling out the two, and its mouth curled into a bit of a sneer combined with a smile.

"Fascinating and intriguing..." It said, voice echoing with Raphael's as it spoke. "Names... what a question..." It snorted, a visible bit of energy escaping its nostrils. It began to pace back and forth, eyes watching the two the entire time. "Mm... You've not come to kill me? And how we're going to deal with this? Deal with what? Do you mean what's going on with Raphael?" It paced, slowly. and stopped, before unfurling its wings again and making a brief flap, sending the trees bending away, though it most likely had little effect on the captain and her shade. "There is no fixing what has happened. Even a new fullbring wold not change his nat--" It stopped pacing and watched her. "No... you did mean what's gong on with Raphael, don't you."

It dragged a claw along the ground, raking the soil in front of it a bit, then it unfurled its wings, once more, standing a bit higher. There was a strange authority to it, as it looked down at the two. Still, as a true hollow wold, it recognized when someone was more powerful than it and while it wasn't going to backdown, it also wasn't going to be rude. "Then allow me to tell you my name. As with my brother, and jailer, Hikisaku, my name can be said in any language... While there is certainly one that I prefer, I will tailor it to your tastes, Shinigami-san. My name is Sonzai. I am the second aspect to the man that is Raphael."

It paused for a moment, the sound of footsteps echoing towards the three. "...it appears that even you shall recieve a rare treat, this eve... My brother, it seems, wishes to join us... For such a thing... there is therefore, much to discuss..." Yet Sonzai did not seem to be happy for the revelation. "This...does not happen, overmuch. We do not converse, as I'm sure you can guess the reason why... As can your other half..." Sonzai rose itself up, standing on its hind legs, as behind the Kimiko and her inner hollow, Hikisaku walked through the woods towards them. Yet the world did not grow lighter or any louder at his approach. If anything it seemed to become even quieter.

"Apologies, Nakajima-san. I should've come with you. I forget sometimes how...obstinate he can be..." He walked past her and her inner hollow to stand in between the two. Though, this only seemed to enrage Sonzai. "You dare to enter the garden armed, Hikisaku?! You dare?!" Kimiko could see what looked almost like a cross between a katana and a saber at Hikisaku's side as he walked forward. "I would be a fool not to. I remember the last time when I came through here, Sonzai... Besides, we both owe Nakajima-san and her friend answers. My blade is merely assurance, you are aware of this." The beast snorted, but stood tall and proud. "...also remove this stupid form. Being intimidating will do you no good here." There was a moment where Sonzai regarded his other half, before snorting once more and then the dragon seemed to melt away, before what looked almost like a demon with bat-like wings upside down rose to its full height and Hikisaku nodded. "Now... please let us resolve this as best we can, and give Nakajima-san what answers she wishes." And he smiles looking to her and her inner hollow.

[Nakajima Kimiko]

The dragon was formidable. That much, Kimiko could not deny. Although it had yet attempted anything of note, she could tell that it would most likely pose a challenge to her should they face off in combat. However, there was something about it that seemed weak to her. Not at a mere glance, no, but rather in the way he presented itself and behaved before her. Even though its body was grand, it did not seem it had any intention to use it to do battle with her. Instead, it attempted to position itself in a manner that would grant him the fiercest appearance, as though it was trying to appear scary and menacing... in order to protect the strange flower which stood in the middle of the field. It was an interesting observation for Kimiko to make, and in a way, it shed a little bit more light onto what kind of being this beast was supposed to be. Perhaps, if anything, it already confirmed that she would not have to do battle with it and neither would her Inner Hollow.

In any case, the beast seemed confused by her words. It was surprised that she hadn't actually come to kill it, to the point that it began pacing about all the while wondering what her objective behind her visit was even supposed to be, and it seemed even more surprised by the fact that she even bothered to ask it its name. The Captain would make no attempt to specify her goals in the moment, instead deciding to remain still with her bright scarlet eyes staring right at it throughout its further attempts to intimidate her. She knew that it was capable of understanding her goals here as well and that these aforementioned attempts were not going to deter her, so she was not going to entertain it. No, she was going to treat it with the respect it deserved, meaning the kind that a powerful beast would grant to another who was weaker than it. Such was the rule of law whenever it came to having conversations with corrupted beings, as intelligent as they may appear to be.

Still, as it paced about and figured her out all by itself, she had to admit that there was a certain quality to its figure. It was big. It was also tall, scary and fantastic. In other words, it was a creature of legend that could only really be conjured by someone who either lacked comprehension about a particular being or someone who was afraid of that being. This realization caused her to briefly turn her gaze towards her Inner Hollow who was staring at the dragon rather absentmindedly, like she was both interested in its existence and disappointed by its current strength all at once. Long ago, when Kimiko still didn't know what that being was supposed to be, she was always draped in shadow. She could never see her, never properly understand what she looked like. Worse, back then, she couldn't even remember her nightmares very well, and so she could never actually realize that she had an Inner Hollow. That was until that one time when she just... began to see her, to remember her, and then to understand her. Maybe this is something similar. Maybe it isn't. 

In any case, the dragon would eventually finally reveal its name to the dual swordswoman. Ironically, she had been fully expecting the beast to quite simply not have a name at all... so when she got its name proper, she couldn't help but frown a little bit once she understood it. "Sonzai". Unlike Hikisaku's name, that one was a lot trickier to understand. It wasn't something as simple as "rend" or "split" that could potentially allude to some kind of ability, but rather something that was much less obvious in comparison: "presence", "being"... "existence". So then, was this name the dragon's attempt to outright reveal to her that it was quite literally Raphael's being? Did it mean that it too, like a standard Inner Hollow, was a part of Raphael and therefore truly could not be removed without severe consequences to the Fullbringer, much like how Hikisaku had said before? No wonder she could hear the young man in its voice... If she understood this well-enough, it may as well indeed be Raphael's dark half.

This was going to be tricky. If the beast truly was the dark half of the Fullbringer, then a conversation might not be enough to convince it to let go of him; after all, if her own takeovers were anything to go by, they were always the result of negative feelings and particular moments of weakness. This meant that, ideally, they would need Raphael himself in here so as to convince the beast to let go of him. Unfortunately, he wasn't here. The only people that remained in this place were herself, her shade, the dragon and the horned man. Could he be somehow manifested here? If there was a way for her to accomplish such a thing, then she honestly didn't know how she could do it. Perhaps she could go back to Hikisaku in order to ask him more questions if she went against the seal the dragon mentioned before. Either that, or she could attempt to demand more answers from the dragon. Either way, both could lead to severe consequences that she would rather avoid.

Fortunately, before she could make a decision on the matter, she would begin to hear footsteps coming from the entrance of the clearing. Curious, she looked over her shoulder so as to see who this newcomer shall be, all the while her Inner Hollow continued to stare at the dragon in silence. The head of the Shinigami's replica tilted left and right from time to time, humming as she analyzed the beast. It was only once the aforementioned visitor truly arrived to the clearing that both she and Kimiko would turn their attention towards what the dragon had referred to as its jailer. The Shinigami made sure to take note of how much quieter the area became. She also noticed the weapons the horned man carried with him. Nevertheless, she would pay it all no mind for now, instead giving Hikisaku a smile. "No worries! We haven't really started our conversation anyway. Besides, as you said, I think it's best that you be here with us. You shouldn't be left out from this," she reassured him before turning her gaze towards the dragon, seemingly unfazed by the fact it had decided to stand on its hind legs. "I don't see the point in us fighting. Neither of us want to, so neither of us should. Now, let's talk."

If her clearly-amused expression was anything to go by, Kimiko's Inner Hollow wanted to say something witty in that moment. Her grin had stretched quite a fair bit and she appeared on the verge of at the very least letting out one teasing hum. With that said, she would keep her mouth properly shut once she would begin to see the dragon change its form. One moment, he still appeared as this great beast who stood taller than the world itself while it remained on its hind legs. However, in the next, it became something more akin to something more demonic than draconic. It was an impressive display of shapeshifting, or at least it was to the likes of the Inner Hollow who couldn't help but let out a noise of agreement. "Ah, someone else who has fun changing their body. Very interesting, Ryu-san~." Her teeth almost appeared to be elongated for a brief moment, sharpened by nothing but her own will. "If we ever have more time some day, we should share some of our tricks."

A sigh came from Kimiko. She knew that her Inner Hollow was partly keeping up this attitude only to maintain that new "game" she has now long since established between them, but didn't think that neither she nor Sonzai needed the dark creature's attention. The Captain may somewhat tolerate her a little bit nowadays, just a little bit, but that didn't mean that others could or even should. Thus, to make sure the now-demon would not be forced to converse with the Inner Hollow for too long, she would give a look towards Hikisaku of request, one that demanded his patience in the matter. After all, though he may have anticipated the creature's presence due to her dark spiritual energy, she didn't want him to focus on her. Once this request of hers would be silently approved, she would believe that it was now the proper time to go on with their conversation. Thus, she would stare at the two spiritual entities and stand upright, demanding their full attention in the process.

"I guess it's now pretty obvious that I'm not a normal Shinigami. To tell you the truth, I'm what I previously thought Raphael was: a Vizard. I'm a Shinigami who can generate both pure and corrupt spiritual energy. It's basically why she's here, really," she started, not even bothering to maintain that secret of hers with these two spirits. There was just no point in doing so, after all, given that they could see her Inner Hollow. "My relationship with her isn't perfect... There have been times where it's been difficult for me to properly do anything because of her, and vice-versa. However, I've met another Vizard who has been able to achieve some kind of symbiosis." A pause came then as her scarlet eyes turned towards her Inner Hollow. Throughout her explanations, her dark half had seemingly teleported to her side with a very interested look on her face, like this matter was completely new to her. In reality, it wasn't: she very much was aware of what happened between Kimiko and Camila during the last invasion of Seireitei. In any case, she would try her best to ignore her and continue the conversation. "Now... I know Raphael is not a Shinigami. He is a Fullbringer, and because of that, I don't know much about his condition. So, I wanted to ask you this before everything here went down the way it apparently was going: Is there a way for each and every one of you to coexist together? What I mean by that is I want to know if Raphael and you two can live together... like how I want to live with her... so that you can achieve greater heights."

She was being sincere here. Truly, she wanted an answer to this question, all so that she could perhaps guide not only Raphael, but also Hikisaku and Sonzai onward. However, her question wasn't only directed towards them. In a way, it was also directed towards her Inner Hollow who had been listening intently since it all began. The shade was staring at her with a look of utmost curiosity and interest, like she was considering the game that Kimiko was proposing. 

It was most definitely... interesting indeed.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Reiatsu: 6500/7000}
Technique Name: Jinzen: Kyōshin

Technique Class: 5 - 20 TTP

Technique Type: General Shinigami.

Usable By: Shinigami, Vizards.

Technique Element: N/A

Technique Cost: 100 Reiatsu.

Description: As Jinzen is a technique used to converse with one's Zanpakuto spirit. Kyōshin allows one the ability to enter the inner world of another performing Jinzen or perhaps allow an individual to enter their world. This in turn allows both to converse with their spirits respectfully or simply allows the two to speak in secret. Can be used with Instant Jinzen if learned, allowing two ample time to communicate in the heat of combat. Once learned this technique can only be used with one willing participant. Those proficient in the technique can be used with three. If mastered while used alongside Instant Jinzen one can forcibly bring another into their inner world or enter another's through contact for a short time(one post). This does not impact the outside world or create an advantage to those outside. For the period of time is brief and the entire exchange to an onlooker happens less than a second.

How to Use: Meditate alongside another, performing Jinzen and resonate your Reiatsu with the other, creating a link. If Instant Jinzen is known, simply resonate your Reiatsu with a willing participant.

Incantation: N/A.

Drawbacks: Stepping foot or allowing another to step into one's inner world can be a dangerous feat to attempt. One's Zanpakuto spirit may be aggressive and decide to turn hostile against the potential intruder. Also attempting to resonate with more than one other participant can be rather risky putting a heavy strain and fatiguing all those involved immensely. This technique, if mastered, cannot be forcibly used on those of higher class.

Made By: Aevus.

Reserved?: No.

---

Technique Name: Instant Jinzen

Class: 5

Technique Type: Cinematic

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects

Named after, and an improved version of, the classic Jinzen position, Instant Jinzen allows the user to communicate with their Zanpakuto Spirit even during the heat of battle. Allows the user to contact their Spirit for the duration of, at most, half a post. This is entirely a mental affair, and time flows differently for the user while using it. While not necessary for the Numbers techniques, this does allow one to work with their Spirits better.

How to use technique

Concentrate on Inner World, and expend Reiatsu to appear there, mentally.

Drawback

Costs Reiatsu to do, while the regular Jinzen position doesn't cost any. While time passes slower for the user while in their Inner World, they may be disoriented upon entering or exiting, due to how fast the switch occurs. Doesn't last nearly as long as the normal Jinzen does.

Made by: Taien Hadohou

Reserved? : No

[Raphael Laurent]

Hikisaku and Sonzai, brothers and twins, stood before the flower, Hikisaku more off to the side while Sonzai stood squarely in front of it. Sonzai, smiling to Kimiko's inner hollow, while Hikisaku smiled to Kimiko herself, while occasionally glaring at Sonzai. Both Kimiko, as well as Hikisaku apparently, could tell that Sonzai was lying and hiding something all at the same time, yet Hikisaku seeemed to be trying to puzzle it out. The two seemed to be the inverse reflections of one another, that much could be obvious. Where Sonzai was focused on appearances, on its strength, Hikisaku was far more concerned with simplicity and grace. One was cruel, the other kind; one was loud the other quiet; as Hikisaku had described they were truly night and day.

Sonzai grinned as Kimiko's inner hollow spoke to it, obviously agreeing, though Hikisaku frowned, annoyed. As she began to spea, however, both refocused on the shinigami. Both seemed to have different reactions to her information. Hikisaku massaged his chin, while staring at her deep in thoght, an understanding slowly dawning upon his eyes as he nodded. Sonzai, however, seemed to have less patience for the captain's explanation, apparently seeming to prefer her inner hollow as opposed to her.

"I see... I see. So that's what a vizard is..." Hikisaku nodded, stroking his chin while his other hand held his elbow. "I can also understand why you would think that Raphael was one... In reality it's not too terribly far off, though the energies... I don't know, to be quite honest. It's a difficult thing to explain..." Then he glanced at Sonzai, the demon, in thought. Kimiko would begin to get the thought that her initial thought wasn't too far off the mark, if slightly incorrect in detail. "Hrm... Let us see hear your question and we shall expound on our true nature, and Raphael's, as well."

Sonzai watched Kimiko as she suggested coexistence before snorting, rising to his full height. "Coexistence... What you call "coexistence", I call imprisonment, enslavement..." The pressure began to build and the world shook. "I was imprisoned for so, SO, long... Enduring such a thing is tantamount to hell, for me! I cannot stand this imprisonment!!" It took a few steps to the side, glaring at her. "Besides, to coexist we'd need the boy here." Sonzai glanced around and then back again. "And I do not see him here... Have you lost your young charge, Hikisaku?"

Hikisaku glanced at Sonzai, eyes narrowing. "...what have you done with him? Where have you hidden him?" The demon grinned. "I swear if you have harmed him in any way, in your sick and demented game then I will show you what--" Hikisaku's eyes narrowed before it looked back at the flower. "...I see... So that's why I couldn't detect him in the dream. I thought he'd simply disappeared deeper into the woods, but this... You stole him as he slept and hid him in the nightmare... Disgraceful." Hikisaku's handwas slowly resting upon the hilt at his side, and, in a flash, he'd drawn and swng the blade at his side. Kimiko would notice that he hadn't even turned, hadn't moved or shifted. Yet, suddenly, the flower behind them split in half, blood spilling out everywhere, and at the very bottom, connected to the roots was Raphael. "I can't believe that... You would DARE?!" He took a breath and looked to Kimiko. "Nakajima-san... this presents a quandry that we've never dealt with... He sleeps. But... he...can be awakened. But is that what you want to do? He...He has never seen us before. I am not certain what to do."