Nobility Gathering [PG13, NDE, Medium]

[Sozen Kuchiki]

Name: [Nobility Gathering] - The Adventure Name

Participants: [Shinigami only] - Who can participate?

Location: [Rukongai, Kuchiki Family Manor] - Where does this take place?

Difficulty Level: [Medium] - Easy, Medium, Hard, Extreme. How difficult is this adventure?

Setting: [NDE] Is this DE or NDE? Death Enabled or Non Death Enabled?

Plotline: [It is very rare for the esteemed Kuchiki household to be the host of a noble gathering; In other words a party. It is custom as per usual for a Kuchiki merely to be invited to another party. This household has nothing to prove. However, it seems that Sozen Kuchiki has seen fit to host a party for the esteemed Kuchiki Family. It is within the Kuchiki Family Manor, to be held in their most eloquent of ballrooms. All who attend are expected to wear their finest clothing and act on their best behavior. This social gathering is quite clearly a chance to forge new alliances and partnerships if it is desired.

There will be many guests at this party who are worth recognizing and speaking to in the desire of forming alliances. No doubt, as the host, Sozen Kuchiki himself will be attending. There are others as well. Members of the Central 46 have been invited, and even other Captains. In a rare display, the Kawada Family's Iron Warden, Kenryoku Kawada, will be himself attending. It is rumored that Sozen Kuchiki's fiancee will even be at this event. Other guests, such as the prestigious Kasumi'Oji head, and the Shiba head will also be attending. The Shihoin head is rumored to be coming, though there is no confirmation. The party is not invite-only, and is open to any who wish to come if they are of enough prestige, status, or financial wealth. Similarly, one can arrive with a date as a guest. (You can make an an NPC date if you want your character to have one.) Outfits range from beautiful Japanese style silk to colorful European suits. Sozen himself is sporting a black suit.

While many prestigious guests will be attending to socialize, there is more to this event than meets the eye. Unknown to any of the guests in fact, some have seen fit to use this event as an excuse to put the lives of the nobility and the upper class in grave peril. None are yet aware of this, but perhaps they will learn soon, during the event itself. ] - Explain the plot of your adventure.

Estimated Enemy Strength: [5-2] Estimate the strength of the NPC's people will fight in this adventure. Class 7-1, what is their strength on average?

Estimated Time Until Completion: [Not really sure] - How many pages do you think this adventure will run for until it is over?

Starts: [Now] - When does the adventure begin?

Special Conditions: [4 participants maximum, Sozen excluded.] - Any special conditions, limitations, or other things.

[Sozen Kuchiki]

SPOILER: Click to show

"That suit! Marvelous!"

"Indeed, where did he get it?"

"Quite extraordinary, I must say!"

His suit was black, and so was his tie. It was collared, a blazer with silver buttons on each side, and three silver buttons which actually held it together. The pants were matching, the shoes as well. His gloves were perfectly white, and his Zanpakuto was nowhere to be seen. Was it hidden? Did someone else have it? There were many questions and many reasons why people were gossiping already about the host, Sozen Kuchiki, Head of the Esteemed Kuchiki Family. But he was used to that, and quite used to being the center of attention. He always had been. Either for his good looks, or his charming personality, he was always the focus.

The room was enormous, and made of the most beautiful and golden wood imaginable. It was a single smooth surface, and the diamond chandeliers projected gleaming, brilliant light everywhere across the room. The light was ubiquitous, and music was playing to entertain the guests. Dozens of different guests had already decided to gather at the party, and yet it was not even dusk. Many had in fact arrived early. The dance floor had a few dancing, but not terribly many yet. Many more had gathered in crowds around the long, sleek white dining tables. These were covered in expensive alcohols and gourmet foods of all kinds.

Socializing had already begun, with Sozen drifting in and out of different parts of the event to ensure that everything was going well, and of course to greet and socialize with his guests. The music was being played by a small orchestra in a corner, yet it resounded across the room. It was beautiful, and no doubt many of the nobles were impressed by how well the event was already turning out. Meanwhile, Sozen himself continued to move and weave in between groups to ensure everything was fantastic! As expected of the Noble Head of the Esteemed Kuchiki Household.

"Ah, Sozen, we were just talking about you!" a voice called as Sozen passed a group. He made his way a few steps into that direction, getting into the group of perhaps four speakers. The one that had called him over was a bald man who was slightly chubby, and wore a brilliant golden silk robe with white letters all across it. The other three were all female guests, presumably being entertained in their beautiful dresses and haughty laughs by the golden robed one, who was in fact a man named Shuura Keijimoni, and was a member of the Central 46. "I was just telling these beautiful maidens about your incredible negotiations the other day at the bank!"

"Ah, you flatter me far too much with words far too kind, Keijimoni-Sama." Sozen said with a graceful smile to the Central 46 member. "Please, call me Shuura. There is no need for such formalities between us, Sozen! We're quite familiar. This man has been teaching my son the art of the sword for almost a year now!" The three women all looked at Sozen with a vague, sexual lust, an interest which was perceived to be only as far as his looks and social status. "Ah, your son is quite the prodigy." Sozen replied. "I remember his first lesson so well! His talent was magnificent, though rather lewd when he stabbed for you and instead took your pants. Well, regardless, he is extraordinary. You should be quite proud, Keijimoni-Sama." The women laughed fake laughs at the story, and Sozen smiled. "I will catch up further with you later. I must see to it that this event is on task!"

Sozen bowed his head to Shuura and to each of the women, and took his leave. He arrived on the dance floor, where a young woman with dazzling, lengthy and silky brown hair took him by the hand. Her dress was also quite lovely, and yellow. She pulled him onto the dance floor, and with a smile he accepted her dance and the two waltzed around the floor. Sozen seemed quite adequate on his feet from so many events. "May I have the honor of your name, madam?" Sozen asked coolly. She giggled, and tapped a finger to his lips. "Not quite yet. I would much rather remain an enigma for now."

Sozen smiled as they resumed dancing. "That portrait on the far wall over there. She's beautiful. Your fiancee, possibly?" The one in the yellow dress asked. Sozen smiled bashfully. "Not my fiancee, though she will arrive soon enough for you to see her. The portrait is of my late sister, Saeki." There was slight pause to the woman in the yellow dress, and then her smile sagged. "I am quite sorry to hear about that." she said. "How did it happen?" In turn, Sozen smiled back at her. "Some things are better left an enigma, don't you think?" Sozen asked. He spun the woman around, and leaned back in, bringing his lips to her ear. "Though, your name is not one of them, Lumina of the Kasumi'Oji family." He released her then, smiling continually. "I must leave you now to receive my other guests. I hope to see your father here tonight as well. Have a pleasant night."

Sozen left her then, and continued strolling through the party. His smile never faltered while he spoke to all of the guests, who he seemed to know quite well, and who in turn were all able to recognize him for who he was. On the way, someone asked him "What ever happened to the Vizards that you defeated?" to which Sozen responded in a joking tone, "I dragged them to the dungeons to torture them." This gained him laughter for what seemed like a joke as he left the guest. Who could have known that he was serious? At last, he made his way to the door as dusk finally hit, just on time to receive yet another esteemed guest of whom he had been awaiting, in the hopes of seeing this guest.

[Xerxes Alejandro Sykes]

After getting his invite Xerxes questioned why he was invited to this party in the first place, and after a bit of thought decided to go. Xerxes really had nothing better to do at the time so he went to the party out of curiosity. Xerxes was just about to open the door as a smiling man opened it for him. This man was very well dressed with a black suit and tie. This must have been the man who had invited him, Sozen, if he'd remembered correctly.

"You must be Sozen." Xerxes said indifferently in a deep raspy voice . "My name is Xerxes, as you know. Captain of Squad 11". Xerxes himself was wearing a white button up shirt with a black carnation on both sides, and a white ascot in a tied knot worn like a tie under his button up. He also sported black jeans and with matching socks and shoes, and white gloves. He had his hair tied up in a not with a green ribbon. He had two diamond ear rings, one on either ear. His Zanpakuto was not visible on his person it was either hidden or at home. He still had his face paint on. The paint gave him painted on dark purple lips, a white face, and red circles on his eyes.

After a few seconds of staring at his host expressionlessly, he started a conversation. "I got you're invitation, and I have to wonder: Why did you invite me? I'm not a noble in any way. Are all the captains coming?" he asked with a raise of an eyebrow, and flat tone of voice. He really didn't care much, he was just curious.

[Kyomei Kuchiki]

My Dear Kyomei,

As the Noble Head of the Esteemed Kuchiki Household, I am hereby inviting you to attend the Grand Noble Gala, an event which I will be hosting for the entertainment and socializing of those of noble status. It is my hope that you will arrive with the other esteemed guests, and will find both a pleasant night and perhaps new allies and connections along the way.

The event begins at dusk on the fourth night of the month, and will last throughout the night. I hope to see you there.

Sincerely,

Sozen Kuchiki

Kyomei read over the invitation that he had received once more. He was surprised that his adopted cousin had honored him in such a way as this. Being adopted into the Kuchiki family, Kyomei had received many a sour glance and sneer as he passed through the mansion. It had been a few months and still they liked him no more than when he first arrived. Though Kyomei wasn't completely sure, he thought that his new family had even spit into his hair on occasion. This was the first time since Sozen had adopted Kyomei that he'd been treated as a Shinigami, instead of as an inferior animal.

Kyomei could not refuse such an auspicious occasion. This was his chance to act with grace and carry himself like a proper Kuchiki was supposed to do. Maybe someday soon the rest of his family would see him as Sozen did on that day where he was welcomed into the family. When the day arrived for the event, Kyomei was ready. Following lunch, Kyomei started the process of getting ready for the gathering that would take place in the ballroom of the manor that night. Following this night, Kyomei hoped that there was no doubt as to his ability to act as nobility and uphold the honor of the Kuchiki.

As Kyomei bathed, he took extra care to remove any and all dirt, grease, and grime. Nobility were not dirty. Secretly, he removed a kit from his room that he had found in the Land of the Living, containing a skin product normally for females, and used it to blend the albino patch of skin with the rest of his face. Nobility did not have blemishes on their foreheads. He then proceeded to comb his hair in a very orderly fashion, then used another human product to secure his hair away from his face, in a fashion the humans called "slicking the hair back." Nobility did not have disorderly hair.

When his body was in proper order, Kyomei proceeded to dress himself in a way a Kuchiki would. He wore a simple, black silk Hakama and a blue Haori jacket with a matching Nagajuban shirt underneath it. It was a very clean, crisp, and noble looking garment that would be perfect for the gathering. After much internal debate, Kyomei decided to leave his bands in his room. They would only serve to lessen the image of nobility he was trying to create. Instead, Kyomei would look professional and choose to wear the Kuchiki House combs. He wished to honor the Kuchiki name by placing himself under their customs and traditions, symbolically doing so by placing them in his hair, as if he was beneath the Kuchiki.

SPOILER: Click to show

By then, people were starting to show up and his adopted family was also starting to come out of their rooms. Most everyone was far more extravagant than Kyomei, so he mainly kept to himself and tried to stay out of the way. He smiled, shook hands, and offered polite conversation, as was customary for one of nobility, but he didn't go out of his way to seek the company of others. In fact, he felt quite alone in that large ballroom. Most everyone had a date of some kind, though Kyomei had never really spent any time in pursuing a woman. His training had been too important to him, and thus he felt alone at this moment. However, the beautiful violin music playing was soothing to Kyomei's wounded heart. Maybe if he was unable to find any pleasant conversation, he'd go play the violin up there himself.

[Sozen Kuchiki]

SPOILER: Click to show

The ballroom music changed as new guests suddenly arrived. The first was of Squad 11, named Xerxes. He was the new Captain of that squad, and his entrance immediately began to gain gossip from the nobles. Why was he there? He wasn't noble in any way, shape, or form. He did not have any riches or bloodline to tie him to the event. A few pretentious looks passed his way, though the gossip seemed at one point to unanimously decide in every group talking about him that Sozen had invited him for the same reason that Sozen soon revealed.

"Ah, welcome to my domain, Squad 11 Captain!" Sozen exclaimed as he saw Xerxes of Squad 11 enter his domain. Rushing to greet him, Sozen's hand reached out to shake that of the newest Captain. Sozen's grip was tight, very tight. He did not have nearly the physical strength of many Shinigami in Soul Society, and rather had traded it for a different set of skills. In his reiatsu strength, and in his speed, he had found prowess more than physical strength had he ever. But still, his handshake was firm. It was the handshake of a man, giving Xerxes that friendly, respected handshake also as a sign of power. The best businessmen had a handshake such as Sozen's.

"I did not invite you because of nobility or riches. I invited you because you are the new Squad 11 Captain. As you may know, ever since the death of Shinra-Taicho, we have had some difficulties keeping people in this position, as well as difficulties finding replacements of adequate strength. I invited you to see what type of person you are. I invited you because even in a ballroom with no conflict at all, your merit will be tested. Are you worthy of your position? We shall soon see, don't you think? Enjoy the party, Sykes-Taicho."

Following, Sozen had to greet the next guest. His adopted cousin, Kyomei Kuchiki! Kyomei had of course been spat on by a great number of Kuchikis, metaphorically and literally, as they viewed him as an impure dog, and a worthless peasant. He had been taken in by Sozen to strengthen the family and give it greater power, as well as to broaden its horizons. In time it was likely Kyomei would be wed to a Kuchiki lass of some sort. This was Sozen's prediction, and he was rarely ever wrong in matters of love and of warfare as well. Briefly hugging his adopted cousin was more acceptable than a handshake, and so Sozen chose the former.

When this was done, he gestured for Kyomei to follow him. "Many of these who have attended my party may at first look down on you, but this will change through intellectual conversation." Sozen informed him. "All that you must do is hold your own in banter with them. Fear not. Wealth does not give them intelligence. They are shallow enough that if you can muster a complex thought of which they have not considered, you will strike up a conversation with them at your fingertips. Especially so if you present to them the name Kuchiki. Being rich is something many men do. Being acclaimed will get you somewhere."

There were many crowds for both newly arrived men to disperse into, or they could take someone on the dance floor. However, Sozen had other plans for both men. Since neither knew anyone that was present, besides having perhaps seen them here and there in the Soul Society, it was clear that they would need to be placed in some prearranged scenarios, which was where Sozen came from. He was wealthy, but moreso he was known. His family was acclaimed, and he was charming and popular. Not to mention, so long as no one caught his underneath the table condescending, he was likable.

Sozen first led Kyomei to the dance floor, and pointed out a woman in a bright red dress. She was lovely, but what was important was her name. She had white blonde hair, and the dress was strapless and of silk. Her eyes were blue unlike any sky or ocean within the domain of human imagination. "That woman there is Eliza of Kasumi'Oji. Next to ours, their family is the most influential, though they lack military power and wealth in comparison to say the Kawadas. Dance with her. She will accept. See if you can strike up conversation and keep it going."

Next, Sozen took to Xerxes, showing him to two nobles. Both were members of prestigious families, but were of lower status than the main four of course. "Yutsuru of the family Raikou," Sozen introduced, nodding at a young man with electric blue hair and the same colored eyes in a tuxedo. "Kaito of the family Shiba," Sozen introduced as well, nodding at a middle aged man with white hair in a buzz cut, a scar on his cheek and below his left eye, and gray eyes that seemed to pierce the soul. "Allow me to introduce you to the new Captain of Squad 11, Xerxes Alejandro Sykes. I trust you are all able to carry on without me however, for this song that the musicians are playing does not quite suit my taste."

Sozen left them after that to go tend to the musicians, leaving Kyomei and Xerxes in their respective positions.

[Kyomei Kuchiki]

As Kyomei wandered the ballroom, his cousin Sozen saw him from afar. Sozen immediately came up to him and embraced him like true family would. It was a very meaningful gesture to Kyomei, one that made him feel as though he would be welcome by all in time. "Many of these who have attended my party may at first look down on you, but this will change through intellectual conversation. All that you must do is hold your own in banter with them. Fear not. Wealth does not give them intelligence. They are shallow enough that if you can muster a complex thought of which they have not considered, you will strike up a conversation with them at your fingertips. Especially so if you present to them the name Kuchiki. Being rich is something many men do. Being acclaimed will get you somewhere."

As if Sozen could see into his heart to see the emptiness that a woman generally fills, Kyomei was led to the dance floor and shown a woman of exquisite beauty. Her red silken dress highlighted her delicate form, and her hair was smooth and straight. What captured Kyomei's attention the most was her eyes of deep sapphire, greater than the calmest sea. "That woman there is Eliza of Kasumi'Oji. Next to ours, their family is the most influential, though they lack military power and wealth in comparison to say the Kawadas. Dance with her. She will accept. See if you can strike up conversation and keep it going." Kyomei nodded, and started to walk towards the beautiful woman, who was also way above Kyomei in nobility by birth. However, as his cousin had advised, Kyomei held himself with grace and dignity fitting of a Kuchiki. If he was to use their name, he should look the part.


On his way towards the Kasumi'Oji woman, Kyomei noticed Sozen headed towards the musicians. The music had changed, and obviously his cousin did not care for it. Either way, if Kyomei had a violin to dance to he was happy. Approaching Eliza from the front, Kyomei spoke cordially. "Kasumi'Oji-san, may I have this dance?" Just as his cousin had said, she didn't object. For a short while, they danced in silence, simply analyzing each other. Kyomei was no novice when it came to dancing. His flexibility and skill at acrobatics allowed him to perform graceful maneuvers with his partner. If the music picked up in tempo, then Kyomei would have a chance to show his true skill. Kyomei tried to present himself as confident, though on the inside he was quite nervous. "I am honored by knowing your name, but I am not quite sure that I have the honor of you knowing mine. I am Kyomei Kuchiki, at your service."

[Xerxes Alejandro Sykes]

Xerxes watched as his host introduced him to the two nobles, one was a young man with blue eyes and hair of the same color, this man's name was Yutsuru. Xerxes was also introduced to a older man with white hair and a scare on his face. Xerxes probably wouldn't give these two the time of day in any other situation. He had nothing against them, he just didn't like people in general, but he had a feeling that he was still being watched by his host. It would be best to try to impress a man with such influence.

So Xerxes decided to give them a fake grin, and gave both men's hands a firm shake. As he did, he took a glass of whine from a passing servants tray. Taking a sip of his wine helped him calm his nerves. His OCD was acting up towards the old man's scars, as they were only on one side of his face. The wine helped him ignore it.

As he lifted his face from the wine glass it quickly changed from a grin back to a indifferent, expressionless, icy stare. The change of music indicated it was time to start a conversation with the two."So,what do you two do for a living?" He asked, "If you don't mind me asking of course." He said to finish his statement, remembering that feeling of being watched by his "lovely" host.

Though there was nothing in his emotionless tone to suggest it, he only added the second part as an afterthought, and he was able to cover it up extremely well. This was because in a strange way, he didn't care; he didn't care how powerful these people were, he didn't care that everyone in the room was gossiping about him, and he barely cared that his host could be watching him, and that only because he didn't like the idea of being watched by someone who was obviously insane.

[Ryuu Usagi]

Ryuu gave a heavy sigh that bordered on oppressive as he wandered the glorious ballroom of the Kuchiki Family Manor. It hadn't been but a few days since his disastrous duet with Rave, Captain of Squad Eight, and Ryuu was still sore from that fight and the one before it. His recently reattached left hand was particularly bothersome, though he's been told the pain would fade eventually. He'd been in two fights since becoming Captain of Squad Three, and had lost both, badly. Many people would be demoralized by that record, but not Ryuu. He merely took it in stride, just another part of this despicable thing called "life". His only regrets about the two fights was that neither had yielded an acceptable way to put an end to it all...oh well. Maybe he'd have better luck next time?

It was while thinking these dark thoughts that the primary source of his gloom grew in magnitude: More people were arriving. the place was already crowed enough; why did Ryuu's so-called half brother have to constantly bring in more empty-headed fools? Ryuu had no answer for his own question, but it made him think of his recent acceptance into the Kuchiki Clan. It couldn't have been more than a week ago that Sozen approached him with the truth about his birth. Ryuu hadn't believed it at first, and in fact still wasn't convinced, but the allure of actually having a real family was hard to resist. Still..all these nobles made him weary. His last experience with nobles had ended in the loss of...many important parts of his life. Some of those things were people, and some...need not be mentioned in polite society.

Pulling himself out of his gloom, Ryuu decided he may as well see who had come in. With luck, it might be someone interesting. Ryuu started toward the door, making sure the hood he'd had attached to his uniform covered his face. This was a formal event, and he supposed he should've been wearing a kimono or something of the like, but Ryuu couldn't help but go against the grain, just to troll Sozen a bit. Besides, any garb formal enough for a Captain of the Gotei Thirteen should be more than formal enough for a party, right? And so it was to the music of bells that Ryuu made his way to the door, the soft chimes coming from his sleeves and ear rings attracting many stares and whispers. That was fine with Ryuu; he'd rather they whisper then babble any day.

Finally, getting close enough to see who had come in, Ryuu almost pulled a double take at who Sozen was introducing to a few nobles. The man was tall, tall to make Ryuu's neck hurt just trying to find his face, and looked rather like someone had stuffed a jester into a business suit. Ryuu, a man not given to great shows of emotion, found it difficult not to laugh aloud at this new comer.

He of course new who it was; Not even Ryuu was lazy enough to miss the addition of a new Captain to their ranks. The clown like giant was Xerxes, Captain of Squad Eleven. However, the cruel gears in Ryuu's mind were already turning out all sorts of other things he might be...

"Excuse me, Clown-San." Ryuu began, gently positioning himself within the group of men. "I hate to interrupt, but I thought I should introduce myself to my fellow Captain while I have the chance. My name is Ryuu Usagi, Captain of Squad Three." As he spoke, his expression remained placid, a pleasantly insincere smile lighting his face. Unlike Xerxes, whose face was utterly devoid of emotion, Ryuu's held emotion, albeit fake emotion. Being able to look at both at once had to make one wonder which was better. "I look forward to working with you...I rest easy knowing boredom will never again plague Soul Society now that you are here." Even while mocking this new acquaintance, even knowing the other man could, in all likely hood, snap him in half in the blink of an eye, Ryuu's expression refused to change, his smile cold, his eyes lifeless. It was kinda like being insulted by a corpse.

[Shade Kawada]

Shade Kawada, the newly appointed captain of Squad 13 and head of the esteemed Kawada family, had indeed received Sozen Kuchiki’s invitation and had arrived in time to see the new captain of Squad 11 enter the building. Shade had remembered his time in Squad 11 as both its third seat and its vice-captain. Xerxes had perhaps read Shade’s file and impressive record when taking over the squad. There was, however, no information regarding his plethora of abilities and zanpakutou techniques in his file. Shade had used his position and financial backing to make sure that information was permanently erased from anything that Xerxes would have access to. However, one thing would stand out on Shade’s file like a sore thumb. He had, as a vice-captain, apparently beaten the previous captain of Squad 11 in one hit without even releasing. This had cemented Shade’s reputation among the shinigami of Squad 11 and whispers of him still could be heard in Xerxes’ barracks. Some even believed that Shade was capable of doing the same to their new captain.

Paggos wasn’t the only captain that Shade had beaten in a single hit. Arhellai Lagross, the previous captain of Squad 13 had been taken down with Shade’s opening attack when the Head of the Kawada family had challenged him for his position. There was plenty of reasons for Xerxes to want to fight Shade, but the captain of squad 13 had come for another reason. While Shade normally viewed social events as pointless, this one was special because it would give him a chance to discuss something with Sozen Kuchiki. There had been a mutual feeling of respect between the Kuchikis and the Kawadas for many years as they had once been the two strongest of the four great noble families.

Shade wore his hair slicked back as usual and wore a frilled shirt with an old military jacket that looked like it was from England in the 1600’s. On Shade’s left side were sheathed two swords and on his right were sheathed two more. One could only wonder how the captain wielded four swords at once with only two arms. As Shade entered the party, a whisper could be heard through the party guests. This was not someone whose name wasn’t known. This man was the man who was going to restore the once-great Kawada family to its former glory at the extremely young age of 45. But Shade had not arrived alone. Kenryoku Kawada, Shade’s half-brother, followed right behind him on Shade’s righthand side in the same way as a dutiful butler. However, Kenryoku’s role was one of far greater importance. He was one of Shade’s most trusted men and served as Shade’s second-in-command. His skill and power were not questioned either, as he’d demonstrated his ability on many occasions and proved not to be lacking.

Shade’s eyes darted across the ballroom memorizing every detail of it simply with a glance. The soul reaper’s photographic memory proved useful in many occasions and Shade was always prepared in case something went awry. During the soul reaper’s scan of the ballroom he recognized three other captains. Sozen Kuchiki, Ryuu Usagi, and Xerxes Sykes were all present. Without a word to Kenryoku, the soul reaper began walking through the crowd as it parted for him. His destination was Sozen Kuchiki, the head of the Kuchiki family. As he passed in front of Xerxes and Ryuu a whisper escaped his lips as he exhaled. “Pathetic...” he uttered with sickening superiority. Xerxes had simply been invited as a courtesy and nothing more. He did not belong in the upper crust of society and Shade believed that he was stepping out of his place by simply being here. He was in the company of Sozen Kuchiki, one of the most powerful soul reapers of their day, and Shade Kawada, who was undoubtedly now the richest single man in Soul Society. Xerxes simply didn’t belong, and that was enough for Shade to loath the man’s gall and presence.

Shade was uninterested in the social aspect of this party that the Kuchikis were hosting. There was only one thing that Shade needed to ensure, and that was that he’d get to discuss something with the head of the Kuchiki family. Shade soon reached the other captain as he tended to the musicians and bowed ever so slightly as a courtesy. “Kuchiki...” he said as Kenryoku stood at attention behind him, “First let me thank you for hosting. The Kuchiki Manor is as elegant as always. There is something that I would like to converse with you about when you find the time though.” Shade spoke polite words, but his tone remained almost monotone and devoid of emotion. While Shade was now capable of feeling emotions and understanding them, he still had difficulty expressing them. It made him come across as arrogant, prideful, and heartless.

[Sozen Kuchiki]

SPOILER: Click to show

Eliza giggled to Kyomei, granting him a smile as they danced. "You're polite, and rather elegant in a way with your words. For an adopted Kuchiki, you do quite a good job of acting like an actual one. I can see why Sozen-Sama took you in." She seemed to be impressed by what he said, and it was with her beautiful eyes shining on him that he'd get his first taste of what a Kasumi'Oji really was. She leaned in closely to whisper into his ear as she began to push them towards a slow dance. In retrospect maybe it was seduction, or maybe she really just didn't want anyone else to hear what she had to say.

"But rest assured, you will need more than manners as a Kuchiki. Your enemies are quite numerous." She continued dancing with him after that, and kept her smile up the whole time. She did not continue talking after that, leaving it to Kyomei to give the next part of their conversation. It shouldn't be hard. The conversation had just taken a turn for the interesting, given that she had just said something so ominous. He could ask or say a lot of things to someone who delivered words such as those. But there were other things to be considerate of at the party as well. Two Captains, for example.

It was when Xerxes asked the two nobles what they did for a living that Ryuu cut him off. In an effort to save the tension that could suddenly be felt, one of the nobles began to speak. Kaito Shiba was the one who chose to do the talking. "I am a maker of swords in the Shiba family." Kaito said. "I learned from my father, brother to the current head, and have made all of his tricks and skills my own. I can forge and wield a sword differently from anyone in the Soul Society. If I do say so, my swords are one of the finest makes in Soul Society as well. Even the steel of Sozen-Sama's blade has been tempered with my own."

It might seem merely like bragging, but it was being used to diffuse the tension. The tension, Sozen noticed as well. He flitted over to Ryuu after the song had changed, and arrived in time to hear how Ryuu spoke to Xerxes. He placed himself into the conversation while Kaito was speaking, and nodded his head in agreement. "Your work is indeed the finest I have ever come across," Sozen complimented with a smile. "And this can be said of any of your blades. Any true swordsman knows your mark, and takes only their finest sword to battle against it." He looked at his brother and at Xerxes.

"The way that Kaito puts swords together is marvelous. The way he can get everything to harmoniously work together and make the blade is the reason why so fine a weapon exists." He kept his charming smile, but the next thing that he said would for sure get the attention that he desired from them, and would potentially keep everyone in check. He needed people in line so that he could have a party without fights. If something broke out at the ball, there would be problems. Anyone should know that. "If ever an occasion arises, I insist I'll have to show the both of you how well my own blade cuts. Shiba-San has made quite a masterpiece."

Then, the next guest arrived, and Sozen had to be off to greet him. The arrival was a man with gelled back blond hair and ice blue eyes. He had the coldest gaze in the room, and his presence seemed to turn it entirely to ice. As soon as Sozen noticed him, he was quick to greet him, like all other guests. He did not lose his smile or charm even in front of the richest guests to arrive at the event. Kenryoku, the Iron Warden of Squad 13, and Vice Captain in that division, was entering the party. He wore a black three button blazer and a violet dress shirt with a black tie. His pants and shoes matched. He was at the side of someone else. The head of that family, the head of the Kawada family, Shade, and Captain of Squad 13, was also there. Kenryoku passed Sozen first by chance.

"Ah, Kawada-San." Sozen greeted with his hand extended to shake it. "Welcome." Kenryoku looked at Sozen's hand with disdain, and then into Sozen's eyes with an even greater hatred. He said nothing, only leveled Sozen with a stony gaze. He walked past Sozen, away from the host of that very event, once he'd seen him. He headed straight over to the corner of the room, to a member of the Central 46 to strike up some sort of conversation. The Kawadas were all a vain and haughty lot, who cared little for socializing and more for their own power. But Kenryoku especially was famous for the deeds he had already pulled. And the scene of a teenager that Kenryoku had once been was burned into many minds. It was the scene of that teenager leading enemies of the Seireitei to their torture and executions, marching them in chains and wounds through Rukongai.

Then Shade arrived to speak to Sozen, and Sozen smiled his most sincere, and yet charming smile back to Shade. He used this same attitude towards everyone. He charmed them with his words and his attitude. There was hardly anyone that did not like Sozen. Sozen, likewise to Shade, bowed back just slightly. Kenryoku returned to Shade just as Sozen shook Shade's hand. Kenryoku did not need to say anything. Shade had already been made aware of that Central 46 member, who was being paid off to deliver a powerful new prisoner into Kenryoku's employment under the Kawada family's Tsunami group.

"Kawada-Dono," Sozen greeted back to Shade once his own last name was said. Sozen usually delivered honorifics to those he spoke to no matter if they deserved or even liked them. He used them as politeness, and courtesy. In that part of the room, everything had gone just a little bit cold. "I would be delighted to hear of what you wish to speak. It must be quite important that both of two famous brothers within the Kawada arrived for it. Naturally, if you need time to discuss it, we can arrange a meeting later."

Sozen had to be careful. Three Captains were being tended to at his ball. Two of them were already at odds, and a diffusion of the situation would be quite important. Kenryoku leaned in closer to Shade to inform him. "That woman over there," he said, nodding to the one with which Kyomei danced, "Is a daughter of the Kasumi'Oji family. She has placed quite a bounty on both of your heads. Rumor had it that the reward is three million ryo per head. Six million per head if you are taken to her alive. I heard the assassins will be armed with the finest Bakkoto that can be produced by her father." He said the last two words with more obvious distaste than anything he'd said before. It was made obvious to Shade and Kenryoku that Sozen was not fond at all of the Kasumi'Oji head.

[Xerxes Alejandro Sykes]

"Excuse me, Clown-San." Xerxes turned to the annoying voice to find what could only be described as some weirdo weirdo hwho had nothing better to do but insult him. "I hate to interrupt," The weirdo lied to Xerxes. but I thought I should introduce myself to my fellow Captain while I have the chance. My name is Ryuu Usagi, Captain of Squad Three. I look forward to working with you...I rest easy knowing boredom will never again plague Soul Society now that you are here."

Xerxes was relieved to listen to one of the nobles interrupt the weirdo and explain himself, as if the weirdo was never there in the first place; "I am a maker of swords in the Shiba family." Kaito said. "I learned from my father, brother to the current head, and have made all of his tricks and skills my own. I can forge and wield a sword differently from anyone in the Soul Society. If I do say so, my swords are one of the finest makes in Soul Society as well. Even the steel of Sozen-Sama's blade has been tempered with my own."

This was great, Xerxes didn't have to do anything at this point, he could just watch the three over sized egos try to talk to him, but cut each other off every time. The best part was that he didn't have to listen, to any of them. The three would just get into a argument with each other, and most likely ignore Xerxes.

Then came Sozen, entering the conversation most likely just to shut up the weirdo, or at least change the topic. Xerxes had the feeling that the weirdo wouldn't be shut up so easily, but he listened anyways, with the same indifferent expression on his face.

"Your work is indeed the finest I have ever come across, and this can be said of any of your blades. Any true swordsman knows your mark, and takes only their finest sword to battle against it." Sozen said with a very strange smile on his face, nodding towards the noble. Was the weirdo making Sozen uncomfortable as well?

"The way that Kaito puts swords together is marvelous. The way he can get everything to harmoniously work together and make the blade is the reason why so fine a weapon exists." Sozen continued now staring at Xerxes. If ever an occasion arises, I insist I'll have to show the both of you how well my own blade cuts. Shiba-San has made quite a masterpiece."

Xerxes had another sip of whine and began to talk in a flat uncaring tone of voice;"So, what about you, Yutsuru-San? What do you co for a living?" Xerxes asked, ignoring Ryuu.

[Kyomei Kuchiki]

Kyomei was starting off on the right foot with Eliza. She giggled and smiled as the music shifted to a slower, more violin heavy song. "You're polite, and rather elegant in a way with your words. For an adopted Kuchiki, you do quite a good job of acting like an actual one. I can see why Sozen-Sama took you in." With the music now slower, she slowed down the tempo to their dance as she leaned in to whisper into his ear. It was probably the closest that Kyomei had been to a woman in some time, so he didn't really want to object. "But rest assured, you will need more than manners as a Kuchiki. Your enemies are quite numerous."

As she said that, suddenly the weapons underneath Kyomei's Haori seemed heavier with the addition of a possible threat. Kyomei quickly glanced around the room, his eyes falling upon the Squad 13 Captain and Vice-Captain Shade and Kenryoku Kawada. Why the Kawada chose to be at this social event was beyond him, but Kyomei didn't see any hostility coming from Sozen as he spoke to them. If Sozen was comfortable with having them there, then Kyomei was satisfied with it. Obviously the threat that Eliza had eluded to would be elsewhere, if not even in this room. "Madame, do you speak from experience or conspiracy here? Being new to the Politics of Nobility, I would be delighted to speak further on this matter with you. Do you care for a drink, where we can know who is near us as opposed to the shifting nature of the dance floor?"

Whether or not Eliza wanted to stay on the dance floor or exit, Kyomei would continue to engage in the pleasant conversation. If there was one thing that Kyomei had learned in the few months that he had been a Kuchiki, it was that Nobles rarely give out information for free. "You seem to be interested in my well being, else I'm not sure why exactly you would warn me such as you did. Maybe there is something that I can do for you?" Throughout the conversation, Kyomei maintained a smile. When you smile, other people feel comfortable, and when they feel comfortable, the conversation is more pleasant and agreeable, in Kyomei's opinion, at least. Whether or not Kyomei and Eliza continued to talk about the danger or move on to other topics was purely up to Eliza at this moment in time.

[Sozen Kuchiki]

The music slowed down all of a sudden as per Sozen's request. It was actually fitting to the next words which came from Eliza's lips, after she had accepted Kyomei's request to sit with cups of wine in their hands. They were sitting at the bar area, with whatever alcohol they preferred. In fact, Eliza was drinking some kind of champagne. If Kyomei thought to sample the same thing, the taste was very strong, and immediately dizzying. She drank it casually, indicating it was her usual drink. She was immune to the strength of it from drinking so much of the beverage.

"It is a fair warning, Kuchiki-San." she informed him. "The political world of nobility is treacherous. No one ever means the words that they speak, and all pleasantries are formalities to cover up their true objectives. We live in deception. Everyone manipulates everyone else to gain more power. And as the strongest family, the Kuchiki has the most enemies. There are many who would enjoy seeing even an adopted member choke on his own blood, Kuchiki-San." The most ominous words Kyomei had obviously heard at the party. It was only fitting that it came from a Kasumi'Oji.

While this conversation went on between Kyomei and Eliza, Yutsuru explained to Xerxes what his position in his family was. "I kill." he said. "Those who threaten our family and its head, I kill. I am a bodyguard, and sometimes a mercenary. I never let others trample on us. I will hunt any enemy of our family to the ends of the Soul Society if they threaten us." He was a warrior, then. Kaito had been a sword smith, and this man was a warrior. So not all nobles were purely rich. Some performed services for their families that were important duties, and some even earned honest livings.

[Ryuu Usagi]

Had...Xerxes...ignored Ryuu's words? Was that even possible...? He was supposed to get mad, or at least frustrated. He should've insulted Ryuu in kind, or else pretended it didn't matter what Squad Three's Captain said. But to be utterly ignored? to be met with silence? Ryuu felt like he'd been slapped in the face. And on top of that, his brother Sozen had to come along with a thinly veiled threat to ruin his fun. What was the point of any of this if he couldn't enjoy himself? Well, Ryuu knew there was more than one way to skin a cat, or in this case, make the clown giant angry. And besides, poking his nose into the conversation seemed a remarkable way to gain some insights into how the Kuchiki Clan operated; Already he'd learned two things without even having to ask a question.

Firstly, he'd learned Yutsuru's ultimate loyalties most likely lied not with the Kuchiki clan, but to whoever offered the greatest rewards for his services. It did Ryuu little good to know this now, but he thought it might come in handy sometime in the future, either in looking for a betrayer, or for other...reasons.

The other thing he'd learned was about Sozen himself. That thin threat, meant simply to warn Ryuu away from doing something stupid, told him that Sozen was a man who knew how dangerous mere words and actions could be. He was someone who understood the power one's reputation held, and would go to great lengths to preserve the image of himself and his clan...even if that meant offing an offender.

"So. I never would've thought a man like you would lead such an interesting life." Ryuu said to Yutsuru, his voice melodious and soft, yet somehow questioning. "So. It's not common anymore, but I would enjoy writing a song or two about your exploits, if you'd share the stories. Books and scrolls are transitory things, and even computers can fail. Music, on the other hand, is immortal; to beautiful to ever die." He sighed heavily, as if all of this weighed heavily on his mind. However, his next words revealed his true thoughts, if one were sharp enough to grasp them.

"So. What about you, Clown-san? We have here a singer, a sword-smith and a mercenary; Surely you have a hobby as well? I assume you do more than entertain?" Ryuu's expression shifted faintly, a subtle hardening of his trademark smile. It was an innocent enough question, even with a second clown joke tossed in at the end. But then, things aren't always what they seem, now are they?

[Kyomei Kuchiki]

Not wanting to lose face in Eliza's eyes just yet, Kyomei too took a glass of the same champagne that she had taken as they moved away from the throng of dancing people. The first sip was incredibly strong, and it instantly gave Kyomei a huge thrilling rush. He probably lost a few brain cells with that drink, but it felt good none the less. Kyomei probably enjoyed it more that Eliza, who drank the stuff like it was water. Where's the fun in that? If something loses it's kick, then why not upgrade to something even stronger?

Eliza wasted no time getting right down to business again. Kyomei supposed that was normal for those of Nobility. "It is a fair warning, Kuchiki-San. The political world of nobility is treacherous. No one ever means the words that they speak, and all pleasantries are formalities to cover up their true objectives. We live in deception. Everyone manipulates everyone else to gain more power. And as the strongest family, the Kuchiki has the most enemies. There are many who would enjoy seeing even an adopted member choke on his own blood, Kuchiki-San."

Now Kyomei felt a bit nervous. Maybe it was the drink going to his head, but the warning was too personal, too detailed. It was as if Eliza was stating something that already had been planned out. Whether she was on Kyomei's side or not remained to be seen, but for the moment, she hadn't tried anything funny and Kyomei wasn't just about to let her. He would stay as cautious as possible, though the alcohol probably was getting to his head a little too much. "Kasumi'Oji-san, are you one of those who would watch me drown in my blood, or would you rather we drink to each others good health?"