Parental Bonds (NDE, R)

[Francis Grin]

Name: Parental Bonds

Participants: 3-4 Class 3 or 4 Shinigami, pending approval by myself.

Location: Hong Kong

Difficulty Level: Hard

Setting: NDE

Plotline: A problem has been occurring in Hong Kong recently. It first came to the Gotei's attention when the Hollow population began to drop. Normal investigation programs prompted investigation by unseated officers. When both teams sent to the area disappeared, the Gotei determined that it was time to send in a more experienced team to invesigate, and eliminate the problem if possible.

Estimated Enemy Strength: Class 4-2

Estimated Time Until Completion: What am I, psychic? It'll be done when it's done.

Starts: Post Intros, and adventure will actually begin when 3 or 4 people have been reached.

Special Conditions: Just be able to deal with moderately slow posting at times, and we'll be good.

[Kurumi Mahawa]

The room was very quiet as the Fourth Seat reading a notice about the recent disappearance of two teams of Shinigami that went on an investigation over at a city called Hong Kong in the Human World. Sitting on a office chair as she leaned back while setting the paper on the golden polished oak wood desk that had a thin stack of paper on one corner of the desk with a writing presser on top of the stack. I wonder just what exactly is over there? If there's a large number of Hollows just simply disappearing then what could it be? She pondered inside her head as she tries to figure out what action to take. "Of course, the Gotei will more than likely send another more experienced team to investigate." She said to herself as if she knew for certain that's exactly what's going to happen. Though it was the logical choice, though she has little doubt that its to find the missing Shinigami.

She clenched her teeth and fist as a bitter anger masked her face. Some of those Shinigami were part of the same squad as she was, and the last thing she'll ever do is to leave her fellow comrades behind. I won't allow that to happen, I'll see what I can do to be a part of that team. The last thing I will need is to have this go unnoticed as it has happen a couple times before. She thought to herself as she got up from her chair which rolled behind her a little as she slightly pushed it back on the wooden floor. Her feet lightly padding on the floor as she was barefoot with her Shinigami robes trailing behind her almost like a river as she walked up to a box made out of spruce wood, which gives it a greyish tint to the light brown color. It had a glass panel on the top of the 7 feet long and half a foot height. Inside this case, was her two Zanpakutous that was resting on a red, silky sheet as it was practically being displayed to the whole room.

Inis, Emeraudo Doragon, a blade of an emerald like metal with a light gold and dark red threads wrapped around its hilt, leaving a braided part hanging off the pommel. Doku Shoki Hebi, a blade of pure silver with an Chinese character that says 'Sealed' engraved both on the steel and the sheath. She slid the two swords through her sash and made sure that they were both secure. Then she walked up to the door where her sandals were laying as she slipped them on while gracefully reaching for the door. She was heading for the Captain Commander's office, and she could only hope that he'll be in the mood for volunteers if he's already set up a suitable team for the mission.

Walking down the hallway, bypassing other Shinigami of her squad who had kindly greeted her on their way to god knows where. Approaching the double door that leads to the Captain Commander's office and she was about to knock until she heard that there was already somebody else in there. Being polite as she could possibly be, she kindly waited patiently by leaning against the wall with one leg propped on the wall. Took a deal of maybe ten minutes before the door had opened to reveal another Shinigami though he must be still just a rookie looking for a time to shine. He gave her a sneer as he passed by, she in turn tilted her head in confusion. "You may come in Officer Mahawa." The Captain had called out almost as if he knew she was there. Though she highly respects the Captain, she still maintained her formality self. "Thank you for being patient, there's been a lot of Shinigami that has been eager for action. But due to their inexperience with real combat and lack of strength I fear for the worse. Enough of me yapping, what is it that you seemed an audience with me 4th Seat Mahawa?" He rambled on as she had stepped in the chamber and closed the door behind her as well as approaching the Captain's desk. She took a deep breath before she spoke to calm her nerves.

"There has recently been a report about two missing teams in the Human World, I was wondering if there has been a team assembled to investigate further." She calmly asked in a more formal yet calm tone. Captain Ningen stroked his beard for a moment. "Actually there is a team that's being assembled for that particular mission. Why do you ask dear child? Do you wish to show your skills off as well? If so then you can just forget all about it." He warned without even giving Kurumi a chance to really explain until at the end of his sentences. "No Captain Ningen, I understand that some of those who was in the two MIA teams was also part of Squad 1. I would like to request that I shall be part of the assembling team in order to possibly find and bring back the two teams." She stated rather firmly to both show her determination and a responsibility that she has taken upon herself. Captain Ningen went silent for a moment as it felt like he was looking into the very soul of Kurumi. "Very well then, but be warned that their lives are now in your hands. Do not take this lightly 4th Seat Mahawa, for I do wish to see our fellow comrades as well." He stated with a sign of concern on his face. She slightly bowed to the Captain Commander with almost a sense of excitement in her body. "Thank you Captain Commander, I'll be taking my leave now." She stated in a firm voice though her excitement had slithered in her voice. 

Then she quickly yet gracefully left the office to where she was pretty much barricaded by a small group of Shinigami who had their ears pressed against the door. Her eye twitched in annoyance as she clenched her teeth like she means business. "What are you oafs gawking at?! Get back to duty or I'll make you wash every inch of Squad 1's Barracks!" She threatened in a very serious tone. The group started to sweat a little as they quickly backed up and bowed to her. "Yes ma'am! It certainly won't happen again!" One of them called out as they all scurried off around the corner. After seeing them go, she let out a sigh as she could've sworn she heard the Captain laughing. She closed the door behind her as she Shunpo a couple times to get almost to the gate.

The outside was surprisingly bright and sunny with the gentle breeze tugging at her robes. The breeze gently brushing her jet black long hair that's tied up in a ponytail except for the bangs that hangs just the side of her fair slightly tan skin. The sun seems to dim Kurumi's crimson blood red eyes to where the red is barely visible and it appears orange. She was surprised to find that the gate connected to the World of the living was rather empty. I think I might have gotten here a bit too early. She thought to herself as she made herself comfortable by sitting on the ground cross legged with the sun beating on her back with its powerful pulses of warm air.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Spoiler - Click To View}


Strength - 133-66%= 45 Points

Speed - 134 Points

Spiritual Pressure - 200+50%= 300 Points

Reiatsu Strength - 250 Points

Light Aura - 60 Points

Dark Aura - 40 Points

Instinct - 133-66%= 45 Points

Senses - 50 Points

Energy sensory - 133-66%= 45 Points

Healing Expertise - 100+50%= 150 Points

SPOILER: Click to show

{Spoiler - Click To View}

[Mental Incantation] [2]


[Imitate] [2]


[Weapons (Sword)] [1]


[Karate] [2]


[Kung Fu] [1]


[Battle Focus] [2]


[Heat Tolerance] [2]


[Crafting] [2]


[Charisma] [1]

[Nakazawa Meian]

It’s time to go, now…

The young man slowly stood up from his meditative stance, taking a look at the silent courtyard around him. The past few weeks had come and gone quickly, with Meian and some unlucky others left to take care of the soundless barrack while the rest of his Squad was stationed elsewhere. With only the occasional passer-by within the halls, though, there wasn’t much for them to take care of, leaving them with plenty of time. That time had proven to be precious to the man, who used it to strengthen even more his relationship with his Zanpakutou, even by his own standards.

This time was different, though, for he would probably be unable to meditate for a while. Indeed, he would soon embark on a journey, one which may prove to be… time-consuming. To his stupefaction, he had been requested for a team departing toward Hong Kong, on an investigation mission. Although his Captain surely had played a part in all of this, these orders came with a sigh of relief from Meian, who had been greatly anticipating the next time he’d be sent on the field. What better ways could there be to get in good terms with Kaimamiru than fighting alongside her, after all?

A few concerns about his task still crossed his mind from time to time, though, the first and foremost being its very core, the sudden disappearance of hollow sightings. Such a drop was obviously not an accident, but it foretold nothing good for the team sent in the vicinity, even more so with the lack of survivors from previous ones. Few occurrences could potentially explain this situation, going from a strong hollow variant trying to evolve, to Quincy raid party or even a renegade from their own organization. No matter what the case may be, the lack of information also concerned the poor man, who came to see their objective as a risky one, even more so in a time of war. Still, that surely explained his presence; he was without a doubt unmatched when it came to relaying information… well, except for one single troublesome issue, one called "vocabulary".

Placing Kaimamiru back on the white belt of his Shinigami outfit, near the pocket containing his usual vocabulary translation sheets, the man made his way toward the courtyard’s entrance. Relieved from his duties at the Squad’s stronghold, Meian had the chance to fully enjoy the gentleness of the morning’s breeze as he slowly walked toward his destination, knowing very well that he was ahead of schedule. The young man wouldn’t get the chance to be delighted by such little things for a while, so he could as well appreciate them now, right? At least, that’s what he thought as he finally reached the Senkaimon.

As he came closer, though, the samurai noticed another silhouette already near the Senkaimon’s doors, one of a woman. I’m not the only early bird, it seems… Approaching further, it became evident this girl was one Meian hadn’t seen anywhere else and so he initiated a discussion on a friendly tone, hoping to learn a bit more about who he was dealing with. Hopefully, that'd put the mission on a good start, for once. ”You’re assigned to the investigation team, right? I’m Nakazawa Meian, unranked samurai from the 3^rd Dynasty, a pleasure to meet you. And you are?” With this, he'd hope to at least set things on a good track... but more often than not, things didn't go the way he'd planned, not for him...

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats}Strength – 150 Points

Speed – (350 x 1,5) = 525 Points

Spiritual Pressure – 300 Points

Reiatsu Strength – (50 x 0,5) = 25 Points

Light Aura – 100 Points

Dark Aura – 0 Points

Instinct – (200 x 1,5) = 300 Points

Senses – (100 x 0,5) = 50 Points

Energy Sensory – 50 Points

Healing Expertise – 0 Points


Total SP: 1200 Points

SPOILER: Click to show

{Skills}

Abilities

• Iaijutsu Level 2
  
  
• Battle Analysis Level 2
  
  
• Stealth Level 2
  
  
• Pain Tolerance Level 2
  
  
• War Strategy Level 2
  
  
• Calm Mind Level 2
  

[Souza Kuchiki]

OOC: I've agreed to enter this, so I'mma intro today or tomorrow.

[Souza Kuchiki]

How did he do it...? That was Souza's first thought while sitting, earlier than any, but in a high up branch of a tree near the big white gate. He had arrived several hours ago to find time to achieve inner peace and meditate. With his eyes closed, he had been sitting in that branch for hours. And he had been thinking this whole time about the same exact thing. Images flashed throughout Souza's mind of a battle that he had witnessed only days before. It had been a battle of his own father, shown on an extremely old video recording. His father had done combat against Kenryoku Kawada of the Kawada family nobility. And what Souza had seen had astounded him.

Particularly, despite being the loser, Kenryoku had been astounding. It wasn't the speed at which Kenryoku had suddenly found himself able to move. It was the agility, and the control of that speed. It was how he had surprised even Souza's father, a man renowned for his incredible skill, and overwhelmed him. Sozen Kuchiki had been in grave danger. Kenryoku could definitely have killed him there, had he been more serious. Sozen would have defended, had he been more serious, and was more dangerous and would have killed Kenryoku. These were also true. But it was that Kenryoku had had the potential to cause Souza's father to require such measures that impressed Souza. For Kawada scum, Kenryoku was rather exceptional.

In particular, Souza had observed Kenryoku's sudden transformation into use of Meiunatsuin, the Kawada power sealing mark. As soon as it had been removed, Kenryoku had been more than a Lieutenant. He had actually been on par with a Captain, perhaps even stronger. And Souza wanted that kind of strength. So, there he was, sitting and thinking about Meiunatsin. Thinking about the basics behind that sort of power. It wasn't just that, though. Souza was comparing it to something else. Something he had seen Kenpachi do. Entering "The Zone" he called it. Terminology that came from sports. It was where he came to find his greatest potential. His greatest strength. And Souza had witnessed Kenpachi use it to annihilate an entire forest.

They amaze me. To focus so much into such a small thing as a final stage, or a trump card...I suppose that is the purpose that is to be served by Bankai as well... Bankai was meant to be a trump card too. But attaining Bankai meant experience. In fact, coming to any sort of trump card required experience. And challenges. And triumphs. Souza needed to be challenged. That was the bottomline of it. He needed to take these challenges, and develop new powers, strengths, and skills to overcome them. That was why he had decided to sneak into a mission. Rather than wearing the typical student garb, Souza had had a noble colleague steal from some barracks, and provide him with a new outfit.

Sitting there, Souza wore a black nylon jumpsuit. It was tightly hugging his body, almost like a second skin. It had thermal properties which allowed it to ventilate his temperature and regulate his sweat. It also came with a small green vest over his torso, covered in pockets. In each pocket, he had five shurikens. There were a total of twelve pockets, for sixty total shuriken. In each pocket, he also had very long, thin, barely visible wire. On Souza's back, his Zanpakuto was sheathed in a pristine black scabbard. He wore on his face a white mask in the form of a wolf's visage. A grinning wolf. Souza had been given an outfit which belonged to, speaking of Kenryoku, Kenryoku Kawada's barracks.

Posing as a member of the Omnitsukido and an agent of Kenryoku Kawada's elite Kawada Guard, Tsunami, Souza was going to sneak into this mission and complete it along with the rest of the assigned task force. He needed experience, so here it was. And, in the meantime, he had fabricated for himself a false identity so as to avoid suspicion. He was so familiar with some of the workings of other families that forging a completely different identity was not difficult. He was not telling lies, so much as making up a story. And he was not acting, because he used the same personality. The same cold, blunt, stoic personality. Yup, Souza was kind of a genius.

And there they were. Arriving. Speaking. Introducing themselves. One of them was a fourth seat. Souza could tell by the badge. The other was unseated. But with his limited energy sensory, he could gauge them nonetheless. The unseated had vastly inferior reiatsu strength, but high pressure. The seated officer had much better rounded spiritual stats. Souza guessed the one without a seated position would excel in more physical terms, but had some spiritual strength. The seated officer would suffer physically, but make up for it with high spiritual ability. This made Souza more like the unseated than the seated. How interesting.

"For the purpose of this mission, call me Tetsu," he said, suddenly dropping from the branch. He had been perfectly still, not because he was trained in stealth, but because the jumpsuit allowed him to blend in well, and he had already been perfectly still because of hours of waiting there. So, it was unlikely that either would have noticed him until he appeared before them, and he would gain the satisfaction of surprising them as he appeared and interrupted the seated officer by giving his alias, and his falsified rank. "Omnitsukido Lieutenant, and Tsunami Second Tier, serving under Squad 2 Captain Kenryoku Kawada." He gave his story and his fake ranks, and figured they might buy it, knowing nothing of either organization.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats/Skills}

Strength - [100] (70) Points

Speed - [270] (405) Points

Spiritual Pressure - [150] Points

Reiatsu Strength - [125] Points

Light Aura - [50] Points

Dark Aura - [50] Points

Instinct - [100] Points

Senses [150] Points

Energy sensory - [40] Points

Healing Expertise - [40] Points


Total SP: [975] Points

SPOILER: Click to show

{Skills}

[Weapons: Blades] {2}

[Battle Analysis] {2}

[Pain Tolerance] {2}

[Analysis] {2}

[Martial Arts: Hakuda] {1}

[Charisma/Leadership] {2}

Remaining unused SKP: 4

[Francis Grin]

Hong Kong was a beautiful city, there was no denying that. It towered above the surrounding landscape, and the myriad lights from the buildings were unlike anything found in the Soul Society, even in the esteemed Kuchiki Household. The sight could be called breathtaking by all the most jaded of souls.... If it weren't for one problem.

Thanks to its closeness to China, and its own thriving trade, Hong Kong was filled with pollution. If it wasn't the wind bringing in the coal smoke particles from their superpower neighbor, it was other people's imports and exports via boat streaming out into their local atmosphere. Thanks to the age of two of the individuals present, and the others own virtual confinement to the Soul Society.

However, there wasn't really much time to consider that. There was an investigation to be done, and the Shinigami would be well served by getting on with it. First though, they had to come up with a plan of attack to investigating the city-state sprawled out in front of them.

[Kurumi Mahawa]

She opened one of her ruby red eyes that glimmers in the sun's light to inspect the unranked Shinigami. Though she admittedly seemed rather disappointed, she was still glad that at least one showed up. "The name's Kurumi, and I'm the 4th Seat of Squad 1. Though I'm afraid we don't really have the time for a luxurious introduction," That was when the other guy revealed himself which did indeed surprised her for a moment, but she still maintained her composure as she remained witted on the stone floor with a piercing gaze at the two. 'Lieutenant Tetsu Omnitsukido from the Squad 2 Division? I've never heard of him before, nor have I seen any reports about him. He either must be fairly new to the position or my subordinates and superiors just haven't informed me yet.' She thought to herself as she stood up to her feet, brushing her robes off to remove any particles of dirt on her.

"Alright, I think that's about everybody for the team. I trust you've heard of the news and the purpose of this mission, so I'll try to be brief. I like to suggest that we find the MIA teams, not just to ensure their survival but to also have a lead at least. For as far as I know, I honestly don't know what else to look for except anything that seems off." She stated in her usual commandment tone that she uses to show that she means business. It may seem like trying to find a needle in a hay sack, but she's still willing to find those teams and pray that they're still alive. Though she'll probably get scolded for being sentimental, she didn't care.

Resting her right hand on Hebi's handle as she slightly tilt her head to the side with the same icy gaze on her face. "If any of you have any other ideas or have a question then you'd best ask now while we're here." She stated and partly offered as it was part of her duty to listen to everyone's ideas. However, despite her icy gaze that almost seemed to filled with a sense of duty, deep beneath that was a warm heart that just really care about others. She'd look at Median and then glance at Tetsu for them to answer without turning her head.

[Nakazawa Meian]

At least, Meian was fairly pleased to see he actually got an answer, and more importantly, a name. "The name's Kurumi, and I'm the 4th Seat of Squad 1. Though I'm afraid we don't really have the time for a luxurious introduction," Of course, though, he didn’t get much of a chance to learn more; another person fell right next to him, surprising the poor man. "For the purpose of this mission, call me Tetsu, Omnitsukido Lieutenant, and Tsunami Second Tier, serving under Squad 2 Captain Kenryoku Kawada." With both of them now here, the team was complete, and so their mission could begin.

Looking at both of his teammates, Meian tried to gauge what his team would be capable of. On one side was a seated girl from the 1st Squad; the commanding Squad. Given her position, she likely wasn’t accustomed to frontline operations, but even so, he could feel she had a strong reiatsu, strong enough to deal with threats. Whether she had been sent here for official purposes was unknown, but it didn’t matter to him. The other guy was the complete opposite; a lieutenant from Squad 2’s Omnitsukido, someone who likely had already dealt with several covert operations behind the enemy lines. Even now, Meian could tell it was an unusual person. However, it was obvious, from all of their respective positions, that the higher-ups expected trouble on this mission…

As they started, the Squad 1’s officer quickly took the team’s command; not that he cared, though, since she was likely the best for that task. "Alright, I think that's about everybody for the team. I trust you've heard of the news and the purpose of this mission, so I'll try to be brief. I like to suggest that we find the MIA teams, not just to ensure their survival but to also have a lead at least. For as far as I know, I honestly don't know what else to look for except anything that seems off." A fairly straightforward approach, though one Meian would like to enhance a bit. Fortunately, he was given the chance to voice his opinion, something he’d clearly make use of. "If any of you have any other ideas or have a question then you'd best ask now while we're here."

”Well, in fact, I do have some small things to say.” Reaching out for the pocket held by his belt, the unseated Shinigami finally got two battered sheets out of it, and handed them to his teammates. On them, a list of several words were written. ”If we want to be able to communicate correctly as a team, you might want to have these; because of something that happened to me, I’m unable to say certain words, and so I use these work-around when I talk. If something I say seem odd, please refer to it.” Going back to his previous position, he continued, still with a calm tone of voice. ”As for the objective itself, I may have a way of locating the previous teams. As part of my Katana’s power, I have the possibility of detecting anything within a wide radius; if we head at their last known location and use this, we could at least get a hint of what happened.” Meian then patiently waited for an answer, whether it was positive or negative.

SPOILER: Click to show

{"Vocabulary List"}
(OOC: this is what was given to both teammates.)

Shinigami - Samurai
Hollow - Darkhan
Arrancar - Tengu Darkhan
Vizard - Tengu Samurai
Quincy - Bishop
Fullbringer - Native
Bount - Immortal
Sinner - Tsumi
Seireitei - Edo
Rukongai - Outer-Edo
Hueco Mundo - Khan Empire
Las Noches - Xanadu
Vandenreich - Vatican
Hell - Yomi
Captain-Commander - Edo Emperor
Captain - Shogun
Vice-Captain - Daimyo
Division - Dynasty
Beginner - Ashigaru
Deserter - Ronin
King of Las Noches - Great Khan
Espada - Darougatchi
Fraccion - Tamagatchi
Emperor of Vandenreich - Archbishop
Zanpakutou - Katana
Japan - Honshu
America - New World
Society - Bakufu
Family - Clan
Barrack - Shrine

[Souza Kuchiki]

OOC: Note, see app. Skills have changed.

The city was large. It was actually pretty disgusting, what with all of the smog, and the hoards of people. It was overcrowded, the lights weren't very impressive, and it was easily one of the more polluted looking places that Souza had seen. He didn't exactly care for the smell, either, to be honest. He probably should have picked a better mission, but on second thought it didn't really matter what mission he went on. There would be something discomforting about it. He just needed to adapt and overcome. That was a lesson that a lot of people failed to learn. Adapt and overcome. Speaking of people, there was the matter of the two Soul Reapers with Souza.

Souza wasn't disappointed. Haha, of course not. He'd recognized an unseated officer and a fourth seat as soon as he'd arrived. Neither was accustomed to leading, as one who had been born and bred to do so (quite literally) had been. That was why neither one seemed to be able to formulate an appropriate plan. Despite whatever their obvious strengths might be, leadership was not among them for either of the fully fledged Soul Reapers, and Souza was not going to count himself out just because he hadn't left the academy yet. He was clearly the most qualified to lead, and this would be why he took charge. He guessed that neither would object if he could be efficient and pragmatic.

Souza spoke up and interjected his opinion immediately. "I think it best to assume that the other Soul Reapers that came here to investigate are already dead," Sozen said immediately. "It is often the case that when a Soul Reaper squadron goes missing, more often than not, it's because a Hollow was strong enough to overwhelm them, and they were killed and eaten. When others arrive and track their reiatsu, they find a Hollow which must be slain. That's usually what happens. I'm not saying to give up on them, and should we find that they're alive, I think that our number one priority would be to rescue them and get them out. However, if we're going to do this, we should do it cautiously, and assume the worst."

Souza waited for them to catch up with his information before he resumed speaking. "It would be best if we advance to the last known area stealthily, to avoid being detected, if we haven't already been, and avoid setting off a trap or an ambush. At least minor stealth should be used. Anyone, after all, can hide in an appropriate location and keep distance from somewhere or something. We just need to find a vantage point to examine their last known location, rather than actually going to their last known location. This would be the best way to investigate." Souza had lied about his rank, too, but hopefully they'd go with it. The rank he'd lied about technically outranked them.

Without waiting for a response to what he suggested, Souza took charge. "That's where we'll start," he said. "Whichever one of you has the greatest investigative capabilities, take charge of that. Find the greatest vantage point from which we can view and investigate the last known location of the other squads from a safe distance. It's important that we also now get to know one another's qualities, strengths, and weaknesses. If we encounter a stronger enemy, we'll be able to overcome them if we have a well structured unit." Well, Souza said that, but it wasn't entirely true. He was probably at the level where he could handle anything that came their way if he had the resources available.

[Kurumi Mahawa]

Something tells me that it's not a Hollow, as there has been a major drop on the population of Hollows. Could it be perhaps a Quincy? She thought to herself as she listened to the lieutenant's suggestion. It was very similar to what Kurumi was suggesting, except his is more of a stealth operation. She's not all that great on stealth herself, but she can possibly be that vantage point if that's what it takes. Though her gut tells her that something terrible might have happened, she continues to believe that the two teams are alive.

What was really a surprise to her, was the fact that they were practically invisible almost as if they never existed to the Humans. Plus the atmosphere was thick and proved to be difficult to breath to Kurumi as she took her sleeve and covered her nose and mouth to hopefully be able to breath better. Unfortunately, she could still smell it, but at least she was indeed able to breath better as the pollution wasn't as strong now. Remind me NOT to come back to this city. She complained inside her mind. Both of her Zanpakutous laughed lightly inside her mind.

That does sound like a good plan I'll admit, though I confess that I'm not all that great on stealth. She admitted to the group, as it was one of her weaknesses. Even though she does has some speed, she lacks the arm strength to do any damage. She specializes on Kido and such techniques instead which is her strong point. I do believe that I can possibly make it to that vantage point, I'll be able to communicate with you two through the Hell Butterflies and tell you what I see. Does that sound good? She asked the two as she already started to try to find a good place to use as an vantage point.

[Nakazawa Meian]

(OOC: Had to change Meian's normal thinking color because it blended too well with Souza's speech.)

Quickly following him, the Second Squad’s lieutenant voiced his opinion, though Meian already had some issues with it, from the beginning. "I think it best to assume that the other Soul Reapers that came here to investigate are already dead," …Wait, he isn’t offering to leave them there, is he? "It is often the case that when a Soul Reaper squadron goes missing, more often than not, it's because a Hollow was strong enough to overwhelm them, and they were killed and eaten. When others arrive and track their reiatsu, they find a Hollow which must be slain. That's usually what happens. I'm not saying to give up on them, and should we find that they're alive, I think that our number one priority would be to rescue them and get them out. However, if we're going to do this, we should do it cautiously, and assume the worst." Ohhh, this didn’t sit well with the young man… even in death, those men were a priority for him; confirming their demise was the least he could do for fellow comrades.

Seemingly waiting for a bit, the man then resumed. "It would be best if we advance to the last known area stealthily, to avoid being detected, if we haven't already been, and avoid setting off a trap or an ambush. At least minor stealth should be used. Anyone, after all, can hide in an appropriate location and keep distance from somewhere or something. We just need to find a vantage point to examine their last known location, rather than actually going to their last known location. This would be the best way to investigate." Stealth? Meian sighed; this operation he offered was clearly a method the 2nd Squad used, and something which would’ve been efficient with an Omnitsukido unit; unfortunately, this was an investigation unit, gathered throughout several Squads for the purpose of research. The lieutenant seemed to forget that, among his teammates, one was a Squad 1 officer who likely had low field experience, and another was part of Squad 3, meant to avoid conflict rather than eliminate it…

"That's where we'll start, whichever one of you has the greatest investigative capabilities, take charge of that. Find the greatest vantage point from which we can view and investigate the last known location of the other squads from a safe distance. It's important that we also now get to know one another's qualities, strengths, and weaknesses. If we encounter a stronger enemy, we'll be able to overcome them if we have a well structured unit." As he was over, the young girl who was a member of the 1st Squad spoke up her mind, too. That does sound like a good plan I'll admit, though I confess that I'm not all that great on stealth. I do believe that I can possibly make it to that vantage point, I'll be able to communicate with you two through the Hell Butterflies and tell you what I see. Does that sound good?

Taking a look at his options, Meian had a few worries about the good-going of their mission; it was obvious the three of them had completely different ways of dealing with things, and given their current poor coordination, that’d cause large flaws later on. Still, taking in account that both had already agreed to this plan, and that he was the lowest-ranked of them, he had no choice but to follow too… though that wouldn’t stop him from voicing his concerns. ”Alright, we’ll go with this plan. However, there’s no point in searching for a vantage point; we have this…” He pointed up, toward the sky. ”Unlike in Edo, we always have the possibility of going up and walk on air here. If you need a point of observation, that’s the best we could ask for.” Then, placing his hand on Kaimamiru’s pommel, he continued; one last thing on his mind. ”As for your desire of knowing what I am capable of, I’m a swordsman with a focus on communication and exploration. That should be plenty for your needs.” Waiting on their words or further complaints, Meian’s last thoughts was of this location; a clear icon of the destructive power that modern’s Technology embraced…

[Souza Kuchiki]

What...? This dolt was questioning Souza's plan already? While it was the subordinate's role to question the leader, it was the subordinate's role to do so intelligently, and put some thought into it. Otherwise, they fell victim to the same failure as all other leaders. Leaders would always be plagued by the dissonance out of every smartass with a mouth, and Souza wasn't about to let that become their unit. Even if it was only one mission together, harmony was the most necessary component of success. Teamwork was necessary, even if it was true that they would normally be extremely lacking in their coordination. Souza could handle it. He could coordinate them.

"Your approach is sound," he told to the member of Squad 1. Since she was from the first division, which basically planned for all of the others, then one of her strengths would be cunning and strategy. She would be good at organizing them together, or feeding them the right information. She would, at least, be good at working in a unit, and would be able to provide a different frame of reference from Souza's, and which might possess vital information. In combat, she would be the best chance of a real "support." While it meant her actual one on one ability was probably weaker, and it included her stealth being inferior, as she had said, she could compensate for it given the right role.

But then there was the one from the third division. All dissonance came from him. Souza caught that doubtful flicker in the Soul Reaper's eyes, and heard the almost prodding suggestion too. What? He was kidding, right? What the fuck? There was no way a unit would work if someone had this guy's kind of mindset. Already, Souza could see not only doubts from this guy in his own plan, but in the operation itself. Souza could only hope that at worst, it was a flaw in Meian's tactical mind. He could only hope that it wasn't moral doubts, because more than anything, those clouded judgment. Anyone who couldn't objectify would find their mission more difficult, and would find fulfilling moral obligations more difficult too.

"Gathering reishi to our feet will amplify our presence," Souza countered to Meian. "Not only that, but it isn't hidden. Any enemy with a good eye can look up and see us. With these two factors in play, it's like announcing our presence to anyone looking for it. We need a vantage point which conceals view of us." The suggestion to use airground was unsound. What they needed was a vantage point that provided cover, and allowed visuals of the three Soul Reapers to be cut off. Also, a wall or two between sensors might help a little bit. There were some who couldn't sense through barriers. Others could, but the inferior sensors couldn't. If they were up in the air, manipulating reishi, then everyone would be able to do it.

Souza also didn't want the smog becoming a factor. The pollution in the air above the city made the air ground a disgusting, toxic, unsuitable vantage point. He didn't say that out loud, because he had already given logic to defeat the idea of the air ground as the vantage point, but he would keep it in case there was more to say on the issue. If there was, then he would know he had found someone who was weak in teams to start. Ugh, what a drag that would be. Fuck that. Souza knew that the success of these next few bits of the operation would either solidify them as a unit, or tear them apart. It was his job to keep them together.

Now that he had some idea of the strengths of both of them, he could discuss some of his own. "I'm well versed in swordsmanship and Kido use," Souza said. "And I am known to be good at planning, and also planning ahead. I can strategize very well. I possess a strong, physical style release which eliminates an enemy if it hits them even once. I have also never been defeated in one on one combat. As for weaknesses, my reiatsu has not yet developed adequately to combat high level opponents such as Arrancar. I also have an abnormally limited supply of reiatsu." That last part was only half true. After all of the conversing was done, Souza wanted the operation to begin. It had to. As soon as possible.

[Kurumi Mahawa]

Kurumi could sense the tension in the air that was mainly coming from the lieutenant while the other one was doubting his plan. She sighed as she rest her hand on Hebi as she looks out into the midst of the city. "I can see where you're coming from Median, but I'll have to agree with Tetsu on this one. It would be careless if we get caught by surprise because we were out in the open. This does seem more fitting to Squad er, I mean 2nd Dynasty to do this. I'm not leaving those men dead or alive, if we can find the cause of all this and either try to reason with it if it has intelligence or simply eliminate it." She stated the last part rather coldly almost like ice. She tried to sense around her for anything that feels rather off, but all she could detect was the Humans down below and even a Hollow or two down there. Thankfully, none of the Spirit Body paid the three Soul Reapers any attention.

This however does concern Kurumi a little, granted her ability to sense Reishi isn't all that great, she should still be able to sense further than that. But all she could sense further ahead was an empty void almost. Like everything is there, but not at the same time. Then she turned to the two with her arms folded and her face returns back into an icy glare. "However, in order for this to work you two need to settle your differences here and now. Tetsu! You say you're good at planning ahead, so you'll be the strategist and remain hidden as Median and I go from building to building. You'll be tailing us of course, but make sure you're out of sight around us. We should be able to communicate through the Hell Butterflies as I mentioned earlier." 

Then she turned her attention to Median with the same stare. "As you may have guessed, but you and I are going to head in the last location the teams were reported to be seen which is just up ahead I believe. As we're heading up there, you're going to aid me on checking the surroundings for anything weird or hostile. Understand?" She more like ordered these two around, but if they're going to get anywhere with any coordination then they needed to start temporarily get along. Even if Kurumi has to assume her usual commanding performance. She wasn't speaking loud as she didn't want to tell the whole world their plans, but loud enough for the two to hear every word clearly.

[Nakazawa Meian]

Things were on their way… on their way to hell. With Meian’s last comment, he already had a few doubts on his team, but now, he was certain of it; there was no way they could work properly as teammates, not as long as his opinion would be persecuted that way. It barely took even a few seconds for their “self-proclaimed leader” to react to his offer, a reaction that clearly didn’t promote teamwork. " Gathering reishi to our feet will amplify our presence," he retorted. "Not only that, but it isn't hidden. Any enemy with a good eye can look up and see us. With these two factors in play, it's like announcing our presence to anyone looking for it. We need a vantage point which conceals view of us." Of course, Tetsu had not given even just a consideration to this possibility, he wasn’t even willing to deviate from his original plan. Before arguing further, though, Meian had to wait a bit; he at least wanted to know what his second teammate had to say on the matter…

Unfortunately, he’d have to wait a bit longer, since the Lieutenant finally revealed his own set of strengths. "I'm well versed in swordsmanship and Kido use, and I am known to be good at planning, and also planning ahead. I can strategize very well. I possess a strong, physical style release which eliminates an enemy if it hits them even once. I have also never been defeated in one on one combat. As for weaknesses, my reiatsu has not yet developed adequately to combat high level opponents such as Arrancar. I also have an abnormally limited supply of reiatsu." Given that this man said he was good at planning, something Meian was heavily disagreeing with, the young samurai doubted the entirety of his words, particularly the parts where he boasted. Sadly, he’d have no choice but to wait for a battle to engage before he could have a clear idea of Tetsu’s real level of skills.

Finally, though, the other girl got to speak; her words, however, foretold nothing good… "I can see where you're coming from Median, but I'll have to agree with Tetsu on this one. It would be careless if we get caught by surprise because we were out in the open. This does seem more fitting to Squad er, I mean 2nd Dynasty to do this. I'm not leaving those men dead or alive, if we can find the cause of all this and either try to reason with it if it has intelligence or simply eliminate it."  Meian sighed; they were sent on the frontlines together, and yet neither of his teammates took the time to carefully think of their options. Meian’s one and foremost goal was always to ensure the safety of his team… How could they even think he’d have offered his alternative without pondering about it first? Why did they assume it was risky, when it really wasn’t?

Sadly, the plan moved along, a pissed young man left to ruminate on his thoughts about it. "However, in order for this to work you two need to settle your differences here and now. Tetsu! You say you're good at planning ahead, so you'll be the strategist and remain hidden as Median and I go from building to building. You'll be tailing us of course, but make sure you're out of sight around us. We should be able to communicate through the Hell Butterflies as I mentioned earlier."  Kurumi then turned back toward Meian, using a commanding tone as she spoke… if only it could have any influence on the poor man’s grudge. "As you may have guessed, but you and I are going to head in the last location the teams were reported to be seen which is just up ahead I believe. As we're heading up there, you're going to aid me on checking the surroundings for anything weird or hostile. Understand?"

However, that’d never happen; no, for Meian had stopped following orders right there and then. ”I’m sorry…”, he said to the girl before turning back toward Tetsu, a reprimanding tone now filling his voice. She’d likely be caught in the crossfire of their fierce arguing, a fact that saddened him, but a fact that was necessary; he had no other choice but to react, now. ”I’m sorry, but I won’t follow your lead. You said you’re so good at making plans and strategies? You didn’t even bother thinking of other options at your disposal, let alone consider a teammate’s opinion! Let me show you all the flaws within this plan of yours…”

He started, a level of confidence and calm in his voice that was unheard of. ”First of all, your entire strategy is flawed at its very core. You want us to use stealth as a mean of performing our tasks? You’re alongside two persons who have completely different fields of experience, which means using stealth will simply make the whole team entirely vulnerable; vulnerable to an ambush. Betting our entire mission on such a frail factor will lead us all toward a failure. Second, your plan don’t even take in consideration the objectives we’ve been given! We’re here mainly to gather intelligence, with the task of intervening only if it is within our capabilities. Your whole plan focus on this secondary objective of intervention, without even taking in account what we’re primarily here for! Third off, you forgot to consider the fact that we’re up against an unknown threat. If our enemy has even some detection capabilities, our chances of already being noticed increases dramatically. In such a situation, trying to sneak in will be a suicide operation. Not only that, but your plan implies that we’ll need to move closer, which is a careless action against an unknown level of power. Given these, we simply can’t follow your initial idea…”

“Now, I’ll do what you should have and consider all the tactical intricacies of my own offer, which is to operate using an airground vantage point; an alternative which gives the best chances of survival and success for the entire group… Both of you assumed that taking such an exposed position would be threatening for us, while it’s in fact the opposite. By doing that, we’re forcing any threats out in the open, which not only gives us the intelligence we were sent here for, but also ensure that we won’t be taken by surprise since our foes will have nowhere to hide, just like us. Furthermore, such an option guarantees that, no matter how strong or powerful our enemies are, they won’t be capable of preventing this intelligence from reaching Edo, and so for a very simple reason; because by exposing themselves to us, they’ll also expose themselves to the 12th Dynasty’s constant scans of this world. This whole plan make sure that our objectives have the highest rate of success, while still providing us better options afterward for our own survival; that’s something you would’ve both understood if you had taken the time to consider my offer.”

Finally, Meian concluded his rant, hoping that Tetsu would’ve at least understood its purpose; his hopes were slim, though. ”If you couldn’t even objectively think of the tactical options you had access to, I don’t understand how you can expect me to trust you with my life… If you want the leading role, you have to think about what you can realistically do as a team. In my case, I’m moving on with my own plan, whether you like it or not; up to you to decide how you’ll take advantage of it...” Saying that, the man lifted in the air, keeping his hand on his Zanpakutou’s grip; he had no idea of when or if he’d get attacked, so he had to be careful at all times. He would go up until he reached a height at which he’d have a good view on his surroundings while still having a line of sight over his teammates, at which point he’d try to spot anything strange in the vicinity. On his way up, though, a familiar voice got to pop up in his head. You sure that was a wise move? We’ll have to wait to find out… For now, though, if he truly understand the meaning of leading, he’ll use the opportunity as either a bait or a diversion and find a new way of performing his assigned tasks. Otherwise, we’ll have wasted a great chance… The man’s next actions would depend on what he could spot, but one thing was certain; any form of coordination would be severely crippled, now…

[Souza Kuchiki]

Suddenly, the entire world was engulfed in blackness, and the dragon's head raised up. Atsureki No Koe Ga was at last interested. Interested to see Souza's reaction. However, surprisingly, Souza's rage did not spike up. Normally, it would have. It should have spiked up. Under any and most circumstances, Souza knew that he would have been completely consumed by rage. And it wasn't that he had matured. It was that he had become far more powerful as a whole. Souza, once, had been more brash. He still was. Souza, once, had been arrogant. He still was. He hadn't matured necessarily. He knew that. He had simply been consumed by a newfound blackness.

This was the blackness called contempt. Ahh...contempt...Yeah, this is contempt. He knew this to be true. It could be nothing else. With his newfound, superior power, Souza realized that he was probably stronger than either of the two that were here. It wasn't just strength of person. It was strength of character. It was discipline, and objectivity. He was accused of lacking objectivity, but Meian's first impulse had been to question authority because he felt irked, and to disagree as an inferior rank because of moral obligation. He was problematic, and the team was about to fall apart, so Souza figured that he would just use another method.

"Ohhh?" Souza mused, his contempt boiling over in place of rage. His pride had been struck, and his team compromised, but contempt was all that bled from the wound. Not rage, as it might in others. This stupid dolt...If only he could ever know or understand anything. "Nakazawa Meian...That was your name. Correct?" He said it rhetorically, as if finally noticing and appraising Meian for the first time. He turned fully to the unseated Soul Reaper, and his eyes, all that could be seen through his mask, glinted as they fell on Meian. Now, the air changed around Souza. If only this guy hadn't been such a stupid idiot...

Suddenly, Souza's blade was positioned directly next to Meian's face. In a single, fluent motion, Souza had drawn his sword and stabbed at Meian's eye with full intention of killing his Soul Reaper comrade by stabbing him through the skull. Simultaneously, Souza had used his extremely intense stare to redirect Meian's attention and cause him to overfocus, while also placing his foot in a convenient position in between Meian's, making it extremely easy, if any sort of follow-up were attempted, to completely destroy Meian's ability to balance. This meant that the exchange ended with that stab alone, and it ended because Meian, with superior speed, was able to adjust his body and sway slightly to the side, so as with minimal effort to dodge Souza's blade, and not trip on Souza's foot, or reduce his own balance.

So, Meian's balance remained intact, albeit Souza would consider that temporarily if it were a real fight, and Meian managed to not be killed by a blade to the eye. Souza, however, had planned for Meian to easily be able to dodge. It was just then that Meian might notice that not only had his balance been in jeopardy, but Souza had performed an extremely proficient sword strike, set himself up for another, more likely to hit strike, and induced psychological warfare, all simultaneously. So, while Meian had dodged, someone like him, possessing ability to analyze and also war strategize, would be able to pick up on how complex Souza's seemingly simple strike had actually been.

SPOILER: Click to show

{This song!}

"Oh?" Souza mused again. "I see. You dodged it." He retreated away, giving Meian back his personal space, which had momentarily been completely invaded, and also taking his sword away. This too was a fluent motion, and done while Meian's balance, possibly jeopardized, would have made it impossible to grab Souza or retaliate without potentially suffering worse. It also marked Souza as a very dangerous combatant, especially as Souza would have just learned that Meian was faster than he was, which was tactical knowledge for later. "To show my appreciation for that display of skill, I will forgive you this time for your insolence."

Atsureki No Koe Ga said nothing as Souza continued. "However, there will be no second chances after today. Next time, I will kill you. When I say to do something, you do it." Souza knew simple truths, but left them unseated. He heard Atsureki No Koe Ga speaking in his mind, to Meian, who could not hear the white dragon, but who voiced displeasure. That is how this world works. In all units, each person holds a different version of the best way to do things. That is why there is a leader, who chooses one. Those who lead are cursed to be questioned eternally by every loser with a mouth, but who are you but a non-seat?

Besides, Meian was wrong about the objective. The objective was to investigate if there was a problem, which was as they were doing, and eliminate it if need be. Their main function was not reconnaissance. More than one team had already done this and failed. This meant the main goal was filling in an already existing gap, and then eliminating the cause of that gap. At least, though, this attack from Souza had stopped Meian for the moment from retreating into the air. What a fool. As if he was deliberately trying to fail the mission and cripple the teamwork. Well, he was garbage anyway. Souza would, on another day, if such insolence was shown again, kill him. Meian was weaker than he was.

"As you feel so strongly about it," Souza said, subtly critiquing Meian for treating his own opinion as the center of them all, and the most important, despite being the apparent lowest ranked, "I will allow you to proceed with your plan, but for yourself alone. We will take advantage of you, but operate separately. You are incapable of teamwork, so this will be best." Disrupting teamwork did make Meian the one who was wrong, as Meian might eventually recognize. Souza made a subtle admonishment at that stupid mentality of "you must earn my respect for I am individual." He had already been acknowledged by another who also outranked Meian. A leader had been established. Meian had no place undermining that.

"In this world, winning is everything. Winners are affirmed absolutely, while losers are denied completely. It is winners whose morality is the one others live by, and who ultimately come to write what we know of history. I've never been defeated, and I never will. Therefore I, who am always victorious, am always correct. That's all. We will take advantage of you, but you will now operate independently, and will learn through our success and your failure that you were wrong." Souza turned away from Meian, biting back the know your place which he would normally have said. He had said his words smugly however, with a smile on his face behind the mask. He had not shown displeasure so much as amusement at being challenged.

So, Meian would be allowed to go up into the air. However, there would be no next time for him. Souza would simply kill him then and there for the attempt. And, as Souza said his last words to Meian, those being, "you will now operate independently," he stared him straight in the eyes. And, for a second, Meian would see Souza's left eye change, so his cornea would be black, and his iris would be white and silver. For a second, Meian would see and maybe even be intimidated by something he had never seen before. It was something different, that demonic eye of the Kuchiki Heir. And then, when Souza turned away, The Eye disappeared again.