Stained Glass Masquerade [R, DE, Hard]

[Zeich Yajuu]

Name: Stained Glass Masquerade

Participants: Anyone; Class 5+ suggested, but any race/class can participate.

Location: Tokyo, Japan; the Adventure takes place at a large church at the outskirts.

Difficulty Level: Hard

Setting: Death Enabled

Plotline:
For the last few weeks, Hollow energy has been emanating from a large church outside of Tokyo. There has been no apparent source for it, however; though the feeling of Hollows is in the air constantly, searches by various spiritually-aware parties have come up with nothing; there are only normal people present, and though some possess spiritual awareness or some sense of Reiatsu about them, much like Fullbringers, they are not the source and do not seem to notice the odd atmosphere. The area has been reported twice to Shinigami previously, and now a third request has gone out for the Shinigami to investigate. Spiritually aware human-world dwellers might notice the unusual sensations in the air and choose to look into the matter, while Hollows or Arrancar may be drawn to the presence of their own. All groups hope to find the source of the Hollow energy, and may use it or destroy it as they choose.

Estimated Enemy Strength: 7-1; how high it goes may vary

Estimated Time Until Completion: Unknown

Starts: Once three participants have joined; no reservations, post with introductions.

Special Conditions:
There are a few special conditions.

1) I will be GMing, but also participating with Schultz. I will keep both GM posts and his sections in the same post, but will separate them as necessary.

2) This thread is open to all races and Classes because there will be artificial limiters for powers and stats introduced at one point that will last until near the end of the thread; you will be expected to think your way through parts of this, while other sections may be handled through brute force despite your lack of stats or abilities. Be aware of this before going in.

3) I will be expecting a reasonable posting speed unless warning is given to a period of absence, in which case you will be moved forward with the group through plot mechanics as long as the group progresses so as to not be left behind when you return. By joining this thread, you are giving me permission to godmod you forward should you have a period of reported absence in order to keep you up to speed until you return.

[Alexander Kuma-Hebi]

In Squad 3 compound, there was another emergency. There was another emergency, and another strange occurrence in Human World, anomaly, to be more precise. It was just another one in recent string of anomalies and strange events in Human World. Whatever was underlying the cause of all those weird events, they were all dealt with on individual basis. This particular occurrence was puzzling for both Squad 3 and Squad 12. It all started with unusual Hollow presence detected in a church in Tokyo. It was detected by Human World Monitoring Department of Squad 3, and team of Squad 3 officers was sent to investigate. They, however, returned empty handed. It was highly unusual, but they found no Hollows, nor any signs of recent Hollow activity save for the Hollow presence. It was puzzling, so Squad 12 dispatched their team to perform measurements and look into it. That team stayed there for almost a week, taking measurements and gathering data. They found no Hollows and no definite traces of Hollows either. Only thing that was there was that Hollow presence. It was evident that nothing would be found from just sweeping hat church in Tokyo. Generally, people were hoping that analysis of entirety of data gathered would yield some answers, but it would take a few weeks to perform a full in-depth analysis.

However, there would be no such analysis. Orders from above arrived to Squad 3, and they were simple. Simple, and absolute. A team was going to be assembled, and that issue of mysterious Hollow presence was going to be dealt with immediately. It was not pleasant order. If nobody knew anything for sure about this anomaly, so to call it, it meant that whomever went on this mission was going in blind. Generally, it was what Squad 3 usually did, being the main scouting and recon force of Gotei 13. But, while analysis of all that data taken by Squad 12 wasn't going to happen fast enough, an unseated officer from Squad 12 delivered a message from his department head to Alexander Kuma-Hebi, Captain of Squad 3. It was, according to little bits of findings they scrambled together, potentially very dangerous presence. That didn't mean much to Alexander. However, his men meant something to him, and there were already numerous stories about this mission circulating around the squad. With atmosphere being such that nobody wanted to go on that mission without Squad 12 properly analyzing everything and giving them information, Alexander attempted to delay the mission.

However, he was not successful. Alexander was sitting in his office with a group of his present officers, both unseated and seated, and was discussing this mission with them. "Sir, men are not willing to go on this mission. They say it's Arrancar trap, or a Quincy secret weapon, or worse." "Like they have a say in it. When we get sent somewhere, we must go. It's not always our call." "That may be true... But Captain, you went to see Captain Commander, what did he say about this? "Yes, I talked to him. He personally thinks we should wait and not send anybody in just yet, not until Squad 12 does it's job." "So, nobody has to go, Captain?" "I didn't say that, Akari. The order came from the highest instance. Which means not even Strong Man has any say about it. Central 46 has taken interest in this, and they want it dealt with swiftly." "So, Captain, who gets shipped out? "I do. I had a discussion with Strong Man. we both believe it would be best if I went there personally, rather than just risk our personnel. We are short-handed as it is, and frankly speaking, I have better survival chances on my own. Dismissed, carry on with your duties."

Half an hour later, Alexander was geared up and ready for departure. He was standing in front of Senkaimon in Squad 13 compound. He wore his usual attire, which he wore on duty instead of Shinigami uniform which he despised. He had black suit with white double stripes, coupled with white shoes, underneath it was a black shirt and white tie, anybody who has ever seen Alexander on duty would be familiar with his outfit. Resting on his shoulder was his white trench coat with Squad 3 insignia on it's back, Alexander's substitute for haori that other captains wore. As per usual, he had his black sunglasses on, and his weird "point-me-to-nearest-frying-pan-and-insult-me-along-the-way-instead-of-telling-me-time" trinket watch that looked like a little black slug. He wasn't worried about it, though, he found out that it wasn't unique and that there was a couple of dozen of same trinket watches, and Alexander has bought them all for his trinket collection, thus if he lost one, it wouldn't be irreplaceable loss. At his left side, at his left hip, a blade was resting in it's scabbard. It was not his Zanpakuto. His Zanpakuto has been broken following his short encounter with Kuroi Naito, and was still being remodeled and repaired by the smith, and it wasn't done yet. No, this was uchigatana that Alexander got from Urahara's, and both it's handle and scabbard were black.

Alexander awaited briefly for Senkaimon to open, and he was thinking about lots of stuff in that short time window. It was mostly about his pets though. Wait, did I remember to leave them enough water? Oh, crap, I forgot to leave some for fishes, they will die of thirst until I come back! Wait, you idiot, what are you even thinking, they are fish, they are already swimming in goddamn water! Did I leave crackers? Crap. I didn't. I should somehow get somebody to do it. Oh, well, no time for that. They will all have to get along and share what I left them. Senkaimon opened, and Alexander stepped into it, stepping forward firmly, and with confidence. He was already accustomed to going into unknown circumstances, conditions and dangers, and Alexander knew how to deal with all that lack of knowledge. Answer was simple. Kill everything that is not Shinigami, and kill even Shinigami if they are rogue. That tended to be straightforward and effective. A moment after Alexander stepped into Senkaimon in Soul Society, Senkaimon opened at target location, in that church in Tokyo. And Alexander stepped out of it, into the unknown...

SPOILER: Click to show

{Skills and Stats}
[Weapons: Swords] {3}

[Martial Arts: Hakuda] {3}

[Battle Analysis] {3}

[Strength of Will] {3}

[Damage Recovery] {3}


Strength - [800*2=1600] Points

Speed - [600*2=1200] Points

Spiritual Pressure - [200*0.75+700=850] Points

Reiatsu Strength - [500+700=1200] Points

Light Aura - [50] Points

Dark Aura - [50] Points

Instinct - [300] Points

Senses [200] Points

Energy sensory - [0] Points

Healing Expertise - [0] Points


Total SP: [2600] Points

[Nakazawa Meian]

Chaos… that would be the word to best describe the current situation of the Third Squad’s barrack. The World of the Living sure saw some weird things in the recent years, but this was one-of-a-kind. Both the Third and Twelfth Squads had received the task of investigating an occurrence of large Hollow presence, which wasn’t supposed to be a hard objective in itself. It proved to be far more trouble than intended, though, when the teams came back empty-handed, despite all their research. Slaying a few Hollows would have been a simple matter, but a long analysis, with the currently outgoing war, would prove to be a far greater risk… a risk that the Gotei 13 could possibly regret taking.

With gossips and rumors running rampant between the Shinigamis, fear slowly started to settle in. Seeing the very core of this mess, Meian was ashamed at how the resolves of those around him were easily shaken. For him, trap or not, those who were the most at risk were clearly the humans, and anyone who placed his own life above the ones they are meant to protect wasn’t fit to call himself a Shinigami. He really hoped the Twelfth Squad would use the obscure and wicked magic of their “Technology” to find some sort of meaning to all this, a meaning that, he hoped, would bring some sense back to his comrades. For now, though, Meian had something he had to attend to, a meeting his Captain had set up on the matter.

Taking his place in the line, Meian listened closely to the conversation, knowing fairly well that this wasn’t the best time for him to act. "Sir, men are not willing to go on this mission. They say it's Arrancar trap, or a Quincy secret weapon, or worse." "Like they have a say in it. When we get sent somewhere, we must go. It's not always our call." "That may be true... But Captain, you went to see Captain Commander, what did he say about this? "Yes, I talked to him. He personally thinks we should wait and not send anybody in just yet, not until Squad 12 does it's job." "So, nobody has to go, Captain?" "I didn't say that, Akari. The order came from the highest instance. Which means not even Strong Man has any say about it. Central 46 has taken interest in this, and they want it dealt with swiftly." "So, Captain, who gets shipped out? "I do. I had a discussion with Strong Man. we both believe it would be best if I went there personally, rather than just risk our personnel. We are short-handed as it is, and frankly speaking, I have better survival chances on my own. Dismissed, carry on with your duties."

Leaving the room, Meian at least had some relief from the Captain’s attitude; Alexander wasn’t affected as much as the others by the circumstances, and he even took his responsibilities by not involving the others. Nonetheless, the young man already had his mind set on what he was about to do, and even his orders wouldn’t sway him away from his goal; he’d “carry on with his duties” as he had been asked, but it wouldn’t be the duties he had been assigned to… it’d be his duties as a Shinigami, a protector of balance. Alexander would likely have quite a surprise when he’d reach the gates for his mission… Oh yes, quite a surprise.

Quickly going back to his own place, Meian gathered what he’d need for the trip and then departed for the Senkaimon, aiming to get there before his Captain. Once Alexander would arrive, he’d find a stubborn man sitting right next to the door, waiting for him. Slowly getting up, Meian approached his Captain. ”Alexander-Shogun, if it isn’t too much to ask, I’d like to accompany you on this mission. I know it isn’t where I should be, but I believe my abilities may fit very well with the task at hand, and besides, my role as a Samurai belong to the humans, not to the maintenance of a shrine.” Waiting for an answer, Meian really hoped it’d be a positive one… not that it mattered, though. The young man was ready to disobey once more, if it proved necessary…

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
  

[Kitai Yoru]

Church, a house of God. A place people go to so they can pray to the lord. A place where people can visit their church family, help those in need, and so much more. A church is a place where the presence of God should flow like water through a stream. Something that should always be pure, and untainted. This, is how Kitai felt a church should be like, how any church should be like. But, like most things good, they can also me corrupted, can be tainted by evil and those who practice it. Only someone like that could make a house of God feel like this.

Kitai had been feeling something odd in the area. The albino had been told to investigate this certain area by his 'boss' Kazura. The teen wannabe had said that his sensors had picked up a 'hollow'-like energy from a church in Tokyo. The fullbringer hadn't believed him at first but, after an argument and a fight, the tall albino was at least willing to check the place out. Tokyo was a long way away, unfortunately, and he didn't let himself drive anything. So, he had to take a train to get there, complaining loudly the entire time.

After being practically thrown off the train, Kitai started to head towards where he thought the place was tried to figure out where this place was. Normally, he would have gotten lost on the way, but for some reason, he could tell where he was suposed to be going towards. The fact that his destination felt like a few dozen of the masked fiends drew him to his target. "Rich boy was right, those fiends really got to the place." He said, seemingly to himself. Which he was.

"Quite the shame.A house of God, turned into a pit for those fiends." Kitai said again, sounding like a completely different person, gaining him odd looks from the pedestrians. Kitai was holding is hat to his head, with a look of unease spread across his face. He was careful to keep the sun off his face, lest he get burned by the hot rays. An angry sneer replaced his previous look. "Is there a REASON we can't just burn it down?" His voice sounding oddly girlish just then. His face turned annoyed, simply remained quiet as he headed towards the corrupted house.

SPOILER: Click to show

{stats and skills}Strength - [Strength - [400] Points (+50%=600)

Speed - [400] Points (+50%=600)

Spiritual Pressure - [150] Points (-50%=75)

Reiatsu Strength - [150] Points (-50%=75)

Light Aura - [0] Points

Dark Aura - [100] Points

Instinct - [150] Points

Senses [50] Points

Energy sensory - [100] Points

Healing Expertise - [0] Points

Total SP: [1400] Points]]



[Crafting/Forging] {2}

[strength of will] {3}

[Weapons-firearms] {1}

[Martial arts: drunken fist] {2}

[anti-stealth] {2}

[stealth] {1}

[acting] {2}

[pain Tolerance] {2}

[Schultz Silverhult]

“Well, this seems like the place Father Alan was talking about...”

Adjusting his glasses, Schultz took a moment to peer over the building. The edifice was rather large, containing a second story, made entirely of thick gray stone. An enormous window facing the road, stretching from about halfway up to near the roof, was filled with stained glass in a large number of colors. Though it formed no image, that was to be expected; according to the report, the “Church of Stained Glass” was an unorthodox, new religious belief, one that claimed that the soul had no single form, but was made up of dozens of individual fragments. The stained glass was at the center of the religion, meant to be representative of the human soul, and was certainly an interesting philosophy that was drawing a handful of new followers every day. Though it was still small, and mostly unknown, word had spread to Father Alan's modest church outside of Karakura, drawing interest from the deacon himself.

However, along with news of the philosophy came a hint of danger; a young man who had come visiting Father Alan's church had also mentioned an unsettling feeling around the area. Father Alan had quickly determined the man was spiritually aware, though he did not inform the individual, sending him on his way. However, the deacon had turned to his most recent disciple, Schultz, and had asked him to investigate the unsettling feeling in the area. The reasoning was simple: Schultz was still a new Fullbringer, and learning the spiritual powers granted to him by God—or the Spirit King, Father Alan had never been able to question a Shinigami long enough to discover if they were one and the same—and as a result, the older Fullbringer wanted his apprentice to get some experience in the field himself. Since the feeling was only “uneasiness,” it was likely that whatever negative energies lingered in the area were weak, meaning that even Schultz could handle them with a little care.

With the task given to him, the young scholar had purchased a train ticket and made his way to Tokyo, arriving only a few hours previously. It had not taken him long to find directions to the church; rather, it had taken him longer to find lodgings on the outskirts of the crowded city, a place where he could spend the night once his exorcism was complete. Once his room had been rented, Schultz had immediately set off following the directions given to him by the hotel staff, setting off on foot. The walk wasn't too bad, and as the general area was fairly level, it was hardly taxing on the young man's physical stamina. The air wasn't as fresh as it was out in the Karakura countryside, but he could make due without any breathing difficulties.

Now he had arrived, but where was he to begin? Schultz could definitely sense the presence of negative Hollow energy in the air, but it was faint, like wisps of smoke. Adjusting his glasses as he glanced around, the scholar slipped a hand into the pocket of his brown vest, drawing out a small notebook. At a glance, the journal was a simple thing, meant for making quick notes or recording entries. But to Schultz, it was something more. As Father Alan called it, the journal was a “treasured item” to Schultz, an object that was meant to draw out his latent spiritual powers and transform them into a weapon. The deacon had described it as something of a focus, an item that meant something so dear to the user that it was practically an embodiment of themselves, and that was why Fullbringers could create spiritual weapons from this item.

Opening the first page, Schultz considered the first page. Father Alan had helped him learn more and more about his Fullbring as time had passed, and one of the things they had discovered prior to this trip was that Schultz could actually pre-write sentences, up to five, and automatically make use of them by simply adding a period the moment his Fullbring was activated. This allowed his normally slow Fullbring to have some speed when initially used, and though Schultz couldn't prepare for everything, it allowed him to handle basic Hollows with only moderate difficulty. Before he entered the church to begin his exorcism, the young Fullbringer considered what he would write to prepare himself for what he expected to be combat with a Hollow in a few minutes.

Two sentences were written out quickly, in a messy scrawl that most would have trouble reading, but as Schultz considered his third, a flash of light caught his attention. Tucking his pen pack into the binding of his notebook, the Fullbringer moved back about a dozen feet as a doorway appeared from thin air. Sliding screens, much like those seen in traditional Japanese manors, slid open and two human males stepped forth. Schultz's breath caught in his throat; he had met a Shinigami before—just once, and Father Alan was talking to him, so Schultz hadn't warranted much attention—but never had he thought that a Shinigami's presence would be needed at a place with such a minor negative presence. And atop that, there were two! Imagine that!

Excited, Schultz tried to collect his thoughts. What would he say? How would be introduce himself? Would he be allowed to see the Shinigami at work, and observe their powers with his own eyes? In truth, Schultz had come up with a dream during the long period of education where Father Alan had filled him in on the general details of how the spiritual realms worked: he wanted to create an academy, one where spiritually-aware humans and spiritual beings could both go to learn about one another. A place where knowledge on matters both physical and spiritual could be researched and studied; that was Schultz's dream, at some point in his life. Of course, to even start on that would require study subjects, many months of interviews with various spiritual beings... but where better to start than with the Shinigami, said to be protectors of the World of the Living?

Once the two had stepped out from their gate, Schultz was already running up to them, closing the distance fairly quickly. He made sure to do so from an angle that they would see him, so as not to startle the two Shinigami; after all, with the feeling of Hollow energy in the air, it wouldn't be a surprise if surprising them lead to meeting one of their fabled Zanpaktou in a not-so-pleasant way. “H-hey! Wait, wait, wait! Please wait! I want to speak with you!”

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats}Strength - [(100 x 0.5) = 50] (50) Points

Speed - [(50 x 2) = 100] (100) Points

Spiritual Pressure - [50] (50) Points

Reiatsu Strength - [(80 x 2) = 160] (160) Points

Light Aura - [100] (100) Points

Dark Aura - [0] (0) Points

Instinct - [50] (50) Points

Senses [50] (50) Points

Energy sensory - [(30 x 0.85) = 25] (25) Points

Healing Expertise - [0] (0) Points


Total SP: 410 Points

SPOILER: Click to show

{Skills}

• [Weapon – Book] 2
  
  
• [Illusion Resist] 2
  
  
• [Learning] 2
  
  
• [Analyzing] 2
  
  
• [Other - Infantry Abilities – Soul Manipulation (Fullbringer)] 2
  
  
• [ Other - Infantry Abilities - Reiatsu Masking] 2

SPOILER: Click to show

{Pre-Written Sentences}

• 1. A suit of lightweave steel armor, heavy enough to stop a pistol bullet, but light enough to be worn without detracting from my mobility, appropriately sized for my body, appears covering the entirety of my torso, legs, and arms.
• 2. A small cudgel made of oak wood, two feet long and five inches in diameter, with no flaws or damage to it, weighing no more than three pounds but completely solid, appears in my left hand, held by the handle.

[Alexander Kuma-Hebi]

Alexander was in for a surprise on this mission. He was in for a surprise before he even stepped into Senkaimon. There was already an ambush there, waiting for him. It was not an ambush that was there fore the sake of any kind of assault or, for that matter, anything violent. Mostly because it was one-man ambush, and the one staging it was nobody other than Nakazawa Meian, officer of Squad 3, one of more perspective ones as far as Aelxander was concerned. It was already brave of him to be here, Alexander's views on insubordination were well known. However, he wouldn't call Meian out for it. Before he even managed to open his mouth and say anything, Meian was already speaking: "Alexander-Shogun, if it isn’t too much to ask, I’d like to accompany you on this mission. I know it isn’t where I should be, but I believe my abilities may fit very well with the task at hand, and besides, my role as a Samurai belong to the humans, not to the maintenance of a shrine." That was a brave request from younger Shingami, and Alexander actually found himself unsure of what kind of answer to give. Meian had that look. Alexander could say it just based on that, that Meian would not accept negative answer. Alexander saw fire in his eyes, a kind of fire he has seen in many young Shinigami, and it made him remember. How many of them died because of similar things or undertakings? How many more would die in future because they were too brave, and almost too eager to do their duty?

It was not easy track of thoughts for Alexander. He knew that he couldn't refuse Meian and make him stay in Soul Society other than break his arms and legs. Yes, both. Alexander was aware that if he just broke Meian's legs he would simply crawl and follow. But Alexander wouldn't do that. He didn't even consider that as viable option. First off, he didn't have the officers to spare. Second, he sort of liked Meian for his devotion, despite Meian's odd beliefs and even more odd terminology. And also, there was one thought of Meian's really practical use. Wait... He isn't energy blind as I am. He might serve as mobile Reiatsu detector! And also, Aother thought crossed Alexander's mind, causing him to smile. Yes, it was definitively good idea. He would take Meian along. "Well, given that you look like you will follow me anyway, I might as well save us both trouble and let you come with me. But remain close to me and always remain your guard, we do not know what to expect. And should I order you to run away, you will obey me immediately and without any questions. Come now, we have a church to check out. God knows I'm not really religious guy..." Saying that, motioned to Meian to follow him, and then stepped into Senkaimon.

As Alexander stepped out of Senkaimon, followed by Meian, one thing immediately caught his attention. A young man was running towards them. Man was young, and while his dirty blonde hair and blue eyes were most attention catching, Alexander's observation also caught the fact that man was extremely thin and frail. Alexander sniffed once. That gave him last piece of information he needed some time before Schultz would reach him and Meian. "Human. Spiritually aware, no sign of bad intentions. Let me do the talking." In just a short time Alexander had managed to discern all that information though it was easy to get them anyway with his sharp senses analytical abilities. Alexander was indeed energy blind, and couldn't sense Reiatsu signatures, but he didn't need that to identify that it was Human approaching them. Smell was what gave him away. Alexander could discern what race people were most of time based solely on smell. And how was he sure that that Schultz had no evil intentions? Simply. Nobody would just run at them like that if planned on fighting them or similar. That was tactically dumb. Also, in Schultz's motions, Alexander saw nothing aggressive. There was nothing aggressive. And besides, he wasn't deaf. He clearly heard Schultz yell to them while running. "H-hey! Wait, wait, wait! Please wait! I want to speak with you! Alexander was right. There were no hostile action from this human at all. "Sure, we can talk, Human. But first, how about you identify yourself. Who are you?" Yes, that was diplomacy in Alexander's performance. Meian, who knew him, would probably choke out of surprise, but it wasn't important. He would survive that. This was important. Information were important.

[Nakazawa Meian]

The poor man held a great deal of stress as he waited for his Captain’s answer; the fact he had to wait for it didn’t improve things at all either. He knew very well that Alexander didn’t react well to the disobedience of orders, and that was something Meian really wanted to avoid facing at some point. As such, what was his surprise, when he actually saw his Captain smile! Maybe he had found some use for him, after all? "Well, given that you look like you will follow me anyway, I might as well save us both trouble and let you come with me. But remain close to me and always remain your guard, we do not know what to expect. And should I order you to run away, you will obey me immediately and without any questions. Come now, we have a church to check out. God knows I'm not really religious guy..." Good! He wouldn’t have to discreetly follow, at least.

Stepping through the Senkaimon, it didn’t take long for both of them to reach the other side. Squad 13 had sure outclassed any of Meian’s expectations; they had been precise enough to send the team pinpoint at the core of their objective. Only problem with that, though; with such accuracy, they got noticed almost immediately. Yet, their ”witness” seemed in no way hostile; good news for the team. "Human. Spiritually aware, no sign of bad intentions. Let me do the talking." ”Sure.” Meian was disappointed a bit from this, for it had been a while since he last could talk with a human, but oh well, he’d get his chance later. For now, Meian simply kept a vigilant ear to their conversation.

Taking a glance at the man before them, Meian easily understood he was heavily inexperienced; not only had he ran at two armed strangers, but he also did so carelessly. The young Shinigami had a smile as he reminded himself that, only a few years ago, he would’ve done the exact same. "H-hey! Wait, wait, wait! Please wait! I want to speak with you! Meian kept an eye on his Captain; if there was any risk of him causing some sort of trouble, it would happen now. "Sure, we can talk, Human. But first, how about you identify yourself. Who are you?" Sighing of relief, the samurai used his energy sensory to investigate the surroundings; only hollow energy was present, there was no signs of illusion which could explain his Captain’s unplanned behavior. Maybe Meian wouldn’t have to worry so much about the mission’s good going, after all. Now, all that was left was to wait for the human’s answer…

[Kimiko Aimi]

Something was ominous in the air this day. Something that was both eery and weary if one could believe it or not. Although, it does appear that the average man remains oblivious to what loams over out toward the distance of the city, which could only mean disaster will soon follow. The Failure thought about it for while as this presence begins to grow with each passing day. Surely that someone would have taken care of it already, but still, the presence remained unchallenged. Who was going to help stop this evil should it go rampant? That was the question indeed. With no one answering the call for help in this hour of darkness, the only one who could do this was the wandering spirit of ice.

Sitting over the railing on the roof of one of tokyo's skyscrapers, the Failure shields her delicate eyes to view the course of this terrible aura. Seems as though this could result in a nation wide disaster? Her thoughts were more focused on this evil rather than spending her time to go buy another romance PC game. The day was not hot at all for her. Guessing that the glittering heavy mist hanging over her head had something to do with it would probably help her avoid the sun. Doesn't matter now. Something must be done about this.

Lifting herself up onto the frozen metal bar, Kimiko adjusts her white kimono and takes a step forward over the edge. Using her incredible power in reiatsu, the woman drifts along with the gentle current, riding downward to the next roof parallel to her person. Being a wanderer does have its perks. Especially if there was no one to tell you want to do. She was free as a bird. . More like a bird strapped with nuclear device that is. There was no one should could talk to about her condition, nor was there a way to stabilize herself either. A constant search is all that she is able to do in order to grasp a means of a cure. But so far nothing. Which is the reason that she was in Tokyo.

The only way to seek a means to a cure right now, is by using a greater force than herself to help keep her stable and alive. Seal power with more power. That was idea anyways. So, perhaps, with a slim chance, this darkness could probably provide the answer to her ordeal. If so, then there was no time to waste. Kimiko had to step up the pace if she wanted to reach this source. With each step she leaped off of, the Failure applied a quarter of her reiatsu strength into her jumps to assist with her travel expense. Kimiko didn't want to exhaust herself before arriving at the location, so she took her time and prepare herself the worst possible case.

Commanding her flood to form a halo around her hovering body, the woman continues on forward in hopes that she may reach her goal.

SPOILER: Click to show

{ Stats and Skills}

Prodigy Version 2 - Lvl 1 - Points

Strength - 120 - 2/3 deduction[40]

Speed - 240

Spiritual Pressure - 240

Reiatsu Strength - [X - 1050 due to Failure Class 2] - [1575]

Light Aura - 100

Dark Aura - 0

Instinct - 120 - [40]

Senses - 100

Energy sensory - 280 - [420]

Healing Expertise - 100 - [33]


Total SP: [1200] Points


1. [Fighting Style - Aikido] {3}

2. [Weapon - Bow/Arrow] {2}

3. [Acrobatics] {3}

4. [Acting] {2}

5. [Charisma] {2}

6. [Mental Incantation] {3}

SKP = 15

[/color] [/spoiler]

[Kitai Yoru]

Unbeknownst to the human and the two shinigami, or that's what he believes the term Kazura used for them them anyway, a freak was also heading to the church. The albino had been close enough to the cursed church to feel a flare of energy appear from out'a nowhere. The two felt like shinigami, and unfortunately for him, Kazura had given him instructions for if he had to deal with them. He remembers the conversation he had with the rich boy like it was yesterday. 'IT WAS TODAY YOU NIMROD!' A screeching woman in his head yelled to him, causing his head to pound in pain.

"Carl, I have an assignment for you." Kazura told him. He had given his employer a different name to call him by earlier. Slouched all over the chair that was in front of the desk. Kazura continued. "This is something I'm sure you'd be interested in." This caught his attention, if only slightly. "It seems a church down in Tokyo has been surrounded in hollow energy." This caught the freak's attention immediately. He hadn't known what to expect when he was called in, but this certainly wasn't something he could have predicted. Slowly sitting up straight. He looked focused at the mention of a church being corrupted.

Seeing that he had his attention, he gave the albino a folder with the details. "Now, this place has been letting out hollow energy for a while now, so you might have company." 'Carl' raised an eyebrow at that. It wasn't seen however, due to being behind his hair. "What do you mean by that? You planing on sending that ex-heretic with me?" He asked, wondering what Kazura was talking about. The man shook his head. "No, I'm sending you alone. With how long this has been going on, some shinigami might show up, or 'heretics' as you call them." Kitai balled his hands in anger.

"The chances of you meeting them is slim at best. But, if they do show up, I want you to avoid conflict." The freak was about to cry out in protest, before Kazura interrupted him. "I know you hate them, but I'm asking you not to attack them if you see them." The albino didn't look happy, but he reluctantly agreed. Besides, he even said the chances of meeting and of them was slim. So he took the mission.

'Slim huh? Load of crap.... ' He thought sarcastically, now able to see the two exiting some weird portal. It was similar to what Kazura used, but still very different. He masked his own energies as low as he could as he walked over to the church. He noticed a human running up to the two, and he calling out to them for some odd reason. Shrugging it off, he calmly walked over, a couple dozen feet behind the shinigami. Kitai had his normal face-splitting grin upon his face, with his hair covering the rest of it, but was walking as calmly as he could. Even with that though, he still had a feel about him that could put people on edge. His steps were silent, so the shinigami probably wouldn't notice him unless they turned around.

Finally within hearing range, he caught a bit of their conversation. "-bout you identify yourself. Who are you?"" He barely heard. He thought they might have known the guy since he was running up to them like he did. 'Figures that he doesn't. What with them living who-know-where.' He continued walking forwards, a few dozen feet back, pretending that he couldn't see the two swordsmen.

[Schultz Silverhult]

Schultz quickly caught up to the two, taking a moment to catch his breath as he finally stopped before them. The run hadn't been long enough to be any real exertion on his body, but because of the scholar's weak lungs, he found himself taking deep breaths to recover. It only took a few seconds for him to settle into a normal pattern of breathing, long enough for the taller of the two Shinigami to speak and request his name. Surprised at the question at first, Schultz quickly adapted, realizing that with all the Hollow energy in the air, the two Shinigami were probably on a mission. Thus, they were cautious, and wanted to identify potential threats. Schultz knew he was no threat; he was still building up his spiritual strength and learning to use his Fullbring to its fullest extent. The Shinigami would not know that, however, as they had never met him, so the scholar gave a quick introduction.

“I'm sorry for the abrupt approach, Mr. Shinigami, but I didn't want to mis the chance to speak with you.” Schultz addressed the one who had spoken to him, the tall one, who was likely the leader of the two. “My name is Schultz Silverhult; I'm a clergyman at a Karakura church, and an exorcist-in-training sent to investigate the feeling of negative energy here. Generally we do our best to bind or incapacitate Hollows until Shinigami arrive to purify them, to minimize the damage done to—” Realizing that he was babbling, Schultz stopped his current line of conversation and started a new one. “A-anyway... um. If it's not an issue with you, I was... well, I know you're here to deal with the negative presence in the area, and I'm not needed but... if it's alright, I'd like to accompany you. I've not had a chance to meet a Shinigami, or see them at work. I'm a bit of a scholar too, you see, and I like to study all things spiritual, and...”

Rambling again, this time Schultz went on for a few minutes, leaving Alexander and Meian to either ignore him, put up with him, or simply to tell him to shut up. The scholar didn't notice the arrival of the other human, and it didn't occur to him that any non-aware human would see him talking to thin air and likely think him mad. He was just overwhelmed by the opportunity to meet two Shinigami; it was a wonder he hadn't asked to hold one of their Zanpaktou to study it yet, or begged for a demonstration of their Release techniques. Needless to say, Schultz was completely oblivious to the world around him, at the moment; either Meian or Alexander would have to notice any other arrivals.

Finally, whether he was halted prematurely or finished his rambling, Schultz finally took a moment to regain his mental composure before making his request again. “Anyway... may I please accompany you on your mission? It would really mean a lot to me!”

[Alexander Kuma-Hebi]

OOC: Just a quick heads up - Alexander talks in seagreen, not in that pathetic ordinary green...

IC: Young man has identified himself as Schultz Silver Silverhult, "exorcist-in-training". That was fairly amusing to Alexander. Exorcist? Probably a Fullbringer... They are indeed getting crazier and crazier. No wonder with such variety of drugs here in this place. And we are supposed to make Shinigami out of them when they die? Geez... Schultz however didn't stop at just introducing himself, he went on a mighty ramble that was straining to listen to. However, Alexander pretty much ignored most of it. Something else caught his attention. Smell. Subtle smell in the wind was enough to alert him. He had no idea where it came from, or of what kind was it, but Alexander smelled Reiatsu in the air. However, there were too many smells, and Alexander, while having keen sense of smell, couldn't do much more than acknowledge the fact that there was somebody else save for them who had Reiatsu. That could be intriguing, but then again, it could be nothing, give that they were in middle of Tokyo, and Tokyo was a huge city, inevitably with big spiritual population. However, Alexander didn't just walk into being Captain. His instincts were honed, and they were telling him to take caution on all fronts.

However, Schultz was still rambling, so it was annoying. It was hard to think with him around and like that. Alexander, however, had no issues with shutting him up at all. "Oh, shut up already! I am trying to concentrate." Alexander was indeed concentrating. He was forging a plan. His guts were telling him to check the surroundings of the church, and secure perimeter. However, he also needed to check the insides, which mean that they would have to split up. However, Alexander needed Meian as a mobile Reiatsu detector, given that he was energy blind, so to say. However, Schultz had indeed mentioned something useful while rambling. He wanted to come along. Well, he hadn't even died yet, let alone became Shinigami, but he will do some good and be useful to Soul Society even before that... Yes, Alexander formulated a plan that was pretty good, and one that could work without messing his original idea up too much. It was a simple plan, and Alexander immediately went to tell it to both Schultz and Meian, knowing that speed wouldn't hurt.

"The smell... I don't like it. We aren't alone here, I can feel it, and by that I am no referring to that church. First of all, I want to make sure that there are no human casualties in case we end up in all-out battle. Meian, secure the perimeter, and be careful. Especially be careful about other spiritual beings. Remove those willing to comply from the area, and try to do same for those not willing. If you encounter any signs of hostility, orders are to terminate. Also, take this, I expect report after you are done, then we will see how we proceed." Saying that, Alexander took out two wireless headsets from his pocket and gave one to Meian. It was a way to communicate without using Hell Butterflies or Tenteikura, and was in fact also quite practical way to do it. Placing other one in his own ear, Alexander addressed Schultz directly. "Make no mistake, you will die one day. You will die, and end up in Soul Society, and possibly become Shinigami. Therefore, I am going to use you. You will come with me. I believe that you can sense Reiatsu and energy signatures, right? Well, I can't, so you will do it for me. We are going into the church, you and I, to investigate. Try to be of use, and immediately, without delay, if I tell you to run and hide, do so. Last thing I need is you dying because of being caught up in my fight. And if you have some questions for me, save them for when the job is done. So, lets go."

[Nakazawa Meian]

They waited for an answer, and an answer they got. “I'm sorry for the abrupt approach, Mr. Shinigami, but I didn't want to mis the chance to speak with you. My name is Schultz Silverhult; I'm a clergyman at a Karakura church, and an exorcist-in-training sent to investigate the feeling of negative energy here. Generally we do our best to bind or incapacitate Hollows until Shinigami arrive to purify them, to minimize the damage done to—” Although the conversation was aimed at Alexander, Meian made sure to keep a careful ear; he didn’t want to miss anything. As a result, the man raised an eyebrow as he heard this human mention his career. A church, so far on these lands? I must’ve missed a lot of Shogunates… “A-anyway... um. If it's not an issue with you, I was... well, I know you're here to deal with the negative presence in the area, and I'm not needed but... if it's alright, I'd like to accompany you. I've not had a chance to meet a Shinigami, or see them at work. I'm a bit of a scholar too, you see, and I like to study all things spiritual, and...”

Sadly, even though Meian would’ve loved to hear more, it came to an abrupt end when his Captain intervened. "Oh, shut up already! I am trying to concentrate." Concentrate? Was there a reason to concentrate? Meian’s mind went cautious from these words, expecting a threat of some kind; his Captain surely hadn’t reacted without a good reason… or at least he hoped so. Looking around, he searched for anyone who could threaten them… A priest, a mother, a teenager, a weird grinning guy, a businessman, … No signs whatsoever. After some time, he finally got some explanations on the situation. "The smell... I don't like it. We aren't alone here, I can feel it, and by that I am no referring to that church. First of all, I want to make sure that there are no human casualties in case we end up in all-out battle. Meian, secure the perimeter, and be careful. Especially be careful about other spiritual beings. Remove those willing to comply from the area, and try to do same for those not willing. If you encounter any signs of hostility, orders are to terminate. Also, take this, I expect report after you are done, then we will see how we proceed."

”Alright.”, he said, taking the weird tool his Captain had gave him. Not giving any attention to the rest of Alexander and Schultz’s conversation, he went on with his new task; the only thing he hoped was that Schultz would somehow remain in one piece. For now, though, Meian investigated this thing he had been given. That’s obviously technology, although… how is it used? Thinking deeply, he reviewed what he knew of technology… nearly nothing. The only thing he could remember were those helmet-things he had used before, which could reshape reality! Maybe…maybe it’s a portable version of that reality-creation device? Still looking at it for a bit, he finally gave up, leaving the troubles for later. Well… I’ll just guess it when I’ll need it, then! And to his pocket it went!

”Now, though, I’ve got to secure this location…” Looking around, the young man watched everyone carefully. He had one goal in mind; to understand what everyone’s intents were, and to spot any suspicious behavior. Although this method of research seemed to fail at first, it changed when Meian set his gaze on Kitai; a man who faked ignorance. The young Shinigami instantly suspected him, for one because Meian recognized his intents to be evil-minded, and second because a person with such a malevolent and creepy feeling around him had no place in a church. Walking slowly, Meian stopped right in front of him and spoke. ”No need to hide it, I know you can see me... I’m sorry, but I’ll have to request that you leave; this place could soon become dangerous, and I would hate to involve someone who has nothing to do with it.” Now, if this was enough for the man to leave, Meian would then need to think about his second problem; a way to secure the area from the non-spiritual humans too…



(OOC: If you ask yourself how Meian managed to spot Kitai, I’ll simply answer that having 75 or more in Light Aura does wonders. xD)

[Kitai Yoru]

The albino was listening to the human talk, when large shinigami interrupted him. 'Oh my, it seems that the tall one noticed us. Too bad he can't seem to locate us. Twit.' Came the prideful voice in Kitai's head known as 'Jack'. The albino had been there since the other human had arrived, only he had been more discreet. He did however find the man's entrance hilarious, and laughed loudly at the man while pointing. Any normal human would see the human freaking out at thin air. The human's name, or at least the name he had given, was 'Schultz Silverhult'. He claimed he was an Exorcist, or at least training to become one. Kitai wholeheartedly supported his goal, and silently wished him the best of luck. Ignoring the possibly that the other human was talking about a different heaven, he continued listing to their conversation. The more he listened to the man ranted on about this and that, Kitai found himself disliking him with each passing word.

The man, while seemingly caring about casualties, ordered the human about without even giving him his own name to him. How very rude. Yes, very, very rude. Add to the fact that the man seemed about as blunt as a hammer, only furthered his dislike for the man. That, and he was TALLER THAN HIM! The was the real reason. He hated it when he found another person taller than him. Not that he counted him as a person, since he was technically dead. 'Wait.... so, is he a ghost? I wasn't exactly paying attention to your ramblings earlier.' Questioned a tired voice in the back of his mind. He was about to answer him, when he heard the word 'terminate' in the little speech that the taller one was saying,missing rest of it. 'Why do they have to talk so much.... It's so hard to eavesdrop on them like that.... ' He thought to himself, inwardly complaining, while looking unaffected on the outside, aside from the twitch of his eyebrow.

'So, dealing with two heretics, an exorcist, and a haunted church. Great, what else could happen?' He thought to himself. ”No need to hide it, I know you can see me..." '****, WHY DID YOU HAVE TO THINK IT YOU ******* ****!?' One of the voices in his head cursed at him venomously. Now, while he could have just admitted that he jinxed himself, and probably deserved that to shut the voice up.... he instead decided that ignoring her would would be a lot more fun to do. So he decided to do that instead. Hearing a screech in the back of his mind, he returned his attention to the Shinigami, as he continued talking. "I’m sorry, but I’ll have to request that you leave; this place could soon become dangerous, and I would hate to involve someone who has nothing to do with it.”Kitai stared at the shorter man in front of him. The man spoke to him in a kind voice, with no ill will behind his words. 'It's like he wants you to kill him. Talking to us as if we were children. Twat.' He thought, barely keeping himself from attacking the shinigami.

Kitai continued smiling his sicking grin at the man, waiting a few seconds before tilting his head slightly to the right. "Hehehehe, another freaking hallucination, and it's some loser too." He said, looking at the shinigami in disgust. He leaned down towards the man's face. " Why can't these things ever be nice to look at?" He stands straight again, shrugging his shoulders. "Hehehee, whatever, lets just get this job done." Walking past the shinigami, he heads towards the church. He continues talking out loud. "Maybe I should have taken my medication before I left." Tapping his chin with this sleeved fingers, before simply looking amused at the thought. "Pfsh, yeah right. Oh well, lets see what's up with this place. The aura of the dead shouldn't be this strong in a holy place" His voice changing mid sentence.

Kitai's was having some difficulties ignoring the shinigami. He was forcing himself to keep focused on the mission. This was pretty hard for him to do, seeing as he only wanted to tear him apart, but a corrupted church was a good enough reason for him to try and work with the race he so despised. Begrudgingly, of course, he would work with them as soon as he convinced them to let him do his mission. That, or he would just let them do the hard work and take the credit. He suddenly stopped at that thought. Be lazy, or try and kill stuff? 'Hmm, decisions, decisions. Hmm, ugh, um, humm, frig I wanna kill stuff.' And so, he decided to continue on, so long as someone didn't try and talk to him when he stopped.

[Schultz Silverhult]

((OOC: To all participants - since we haven't gotten beyond initial dialogue yet, feel free to update skills/stats as of post-CIU. Be sure to post them up.))

Schultz froze as the taller began speaking to him, still flustered after making his request. The Fullbringer's eyes widened in delight, however, as the Shinigami permitted him to accompany him on his mission. He did his best to refrain a cheer of delight, though Schultz practically felt like bouncing up and down with how good he felt; he was going to get to see a Shinigami at work, to see them purify Hollows and send them to the afterlife; it was a wonderful source of knowledge, one he could record after the mission was done. Oh, how he couldn't wait to tell Father Alan of this wonderful experience! But for now, he had a job to do.

The young man was admittedly a little surprised that the Shinigami that was talking to him couldn't sense spiritual energy, though; wasn't that something most, if not all spiritual beings could do? Granted, Schultz's own sensory abilities were still developing, and they weren't the most potent, but he had been able to sense spirits since the day he had awoken as a Fullbringer. It was hard to miss the flow of another's soul, a glowing, ephemeral aura that shifted and altered every moment, taking on unique forms based on the owner's spiritual strength and race. Of course, Schultz had been informed by Father Alan that his own ability to see spiritual energy was a higher level than the general norm, as well; while others could see Reiatsu and general spiritual energy, the young Fullbringer could see the souls themselves, a skill that rarely developed in Fullbringers but allowed them to more accurately gauge and identify another's spirit. Schultz had been pleased at the praise, knowing that he had one more tool at his disposal for the good of others.

Anyway, it was time to explore the church; after fastening the headset on—despite living in a rural church, Schultz had a decent grasp on technology from his forays into Karakura—the Fullbringer followed the lead Shinigami into the church. Immediately the flow of negative energy increased; though it wasn't as stifling as being up close to a Hollow, it was certainly noticeable. Alexander was lucky, not having to feel the tainted darkness swirling around him, and luckier still not to possess Schultz's sight. Tendrils of sickly black mist seemed to fill the area with so much Hollow energy, twisting about in serpentine patterns. Shivering, the Fullbringer continued to look around, wondering where the source of the unsettling energy was. As he did so, however, he noticed something else alarming, something that scared him.

Lowering his voice to a whisper, Schultz turned on his headset, trying to keep his voice steady. “Mister Shinigami—” He paused, realizing that he had never gotten the man's name, but now was not the time to ask. “There's... something really strange going on. I not only can sense, but also see the flow of spiritual energy and souls, and it's... really strange. Each of these people in the church... there are lines of dark spiritual energy flowing into them. Almost like Hollow energy, I think, though I can't be sure. But every one of them has it, twisting and flowing from somewhere at the front of the church. There are some lines that even go outside of the church, but they all seem to have the same source... I'm going to follow them. It may be the place where the Hollow is that's causing such a strange feeling in the air.”

With that, Schultz started off towards the front of the church, between two large rows of pews. The people seated turned to look at Schultz, and though they didn't look directly at Alexander, the Shinigami would get the feeling of being watched too. None of their gazes settled on him, meaning that they were probably not spiritually aware, but nonetheless he would get that unsettling feeling. No one spoke or made a sound as Schultz made his way towards the front altar, an enormous wooden structure carved with an image of a stained-glass mirror and set with actual colored glass, carefully molded into the wood. As the young man approached the altar, a man wearing the robes of a priest stepped up from the side. There was no obvious malicious intent in his actions, but something was unsettling about the man to Schultz, causing him to step back at the sudden approach. “Welcome to our church, young man. How may I be of assistance?”

Schultz looked at the man carefully, and started to turn to look towards Alexander as if to ask for some input, but he knew that would look suspicious. “Oh, um... I'm just looking around, really. I heard about this place from a traveler, and I've come all the way from Karakura to see what it was about. Since you're already here, um...” He fumbled for a question even as he looked around; he could see the black tendrils of spiritual energy flowing from a door that was set off to the side behind the altar area. How would he get past there, though, without alerting the priest? Even he had a tendril of darkness flowing from his mouth. “w-well... what is the origin of this belief? I haven't heard of it until recently, so it's likely fairly new, and I would be interested in hearing where it had come from.”

“Ah... that's an interesting tale, child. Come, follow me, and I'll show you the original stained glass, the mirror that we use as a symbol of our faith.” With that, the priest turned and started towards the doorway, much to Schultz's delight; it was exactly where he wanted to go. Letting the man get a bit ahead of him, the Fullbringer followed, but also spoke into the headset carefully in case Alexander couldn't hear him; he wasn't sure how good a Shinigami's senses were. “Shinigami, sir, the feeling of dark energy is coming from that doorway that he's leading us through, and the sensation of darkness is getting stronger. I'm sorry for assuming the lead here for a moment; it's really hard working with an entity most people can't see.”

Once he had updated Alexander on the situation, the Fullbringer sped up his pace, keeping up with the priest. They made their way down several hallways, always following the dark trail with each turn, and as they proceeded, Schultz became more suspicious. Where were they going; what was this mirror anyway, that seemed to lay at the heart of this darkness? Did it have something to do with the Hollow that was present in this place? Schultz wanted to explain his concern, since his companion wouldn't be able to see spirits like he would, but there was no time; even as he came to his conclusions, the priest opened a door and ushered Schultz inside. “Right this way, young one. The mirror is inside.”

Inside the room was a small stand, bearing a mirror approximately a food wide and half again as tall. The frame was ornate gold, carved into soft whorls that flowed around the glass at the center. The mirror's surface itself was interesting; rather than standard glass, it was broken up into about thirty shards of colored glass, somehow connected yet obviously divided with simple lines. It resembled the stained-glass windows of a church, but there was no picture, and no seeming order to the jumbled shards; they only seemed as though they were put together to form a perfectly circular mirror in the center. It was well-cared for, too; the glass almost seemed to shimmer in the light, reflecting the room quite clearly.

“This mirror is the founding relic of our order.” The priest continued, standing next to it. “It is said that looking into the mirror, our founder saw her face in many reflections, showing the many facets of her human soul, and from there, our philosophy and faith were born. Many who have looked into the mirror have understood this ideal; perhaps you would like to look for yourself, and see what secrets the mirror holds for you?”

For some reason, the last statement didn't feel like the question it was supposed to be, yet Schultz found himself oddly mesmerized. Alexander, too, would feel that strange sensation, as if he were being drawn towards the mirror, and neither of them could muster up the willpower to resist it. The two would step forward, towards the mirror, looking into its depths. They would see their own faces, staring back at them from many different angles, each slightly distorted, different from the next. And then they were falling. Falling forward, but not towards the floor; they would feel as though they were falling into the depths of the mirror in which they were staring. The floor fell out beneath them, and soon, both found their consciousness fading...






Meian and Kitai would both sense a shift in the air, as though the feeling of darkness had intensified, even if only by a small fraction. Neither would be able to pinpoint just where or why it happened, but they would definitely feel it coming from the church, and it was a sign that something was up. Nothing had come from the two who had gone in, either; with that in mind, it was likely that something was wrong. If the Shinigami or Kitai chose to go into the church, and if he did, he'd find that all of the people were just as silent as before, though their eyes most certainly followed them. It was unsettling; there were probably at least forty or so people in the church, and every one of them would stare at them as they walked by. None of the people would answer questions, despite staring at the two.

If they chose to wait outside, then the two would see those same faces appear in the windows, standing and staring. Some would come out of the doors, but all would move with a rather... eerie and automatic way. They would just stand there, and wait... waiting to see what would happen. They would, of course, leave a path between them for the two to go into the church, but if they did, the people would close ranks behind them, causing them to go forward unless they wanted to shove their way out. In short, they had two choices: wait outside, or go in to investigate. Calls on the radio, if Meian could figure out how to use it, would yield no responses, so it was up to them to decide what to do.

[Alexander Kuma-Hebi]

Alexander boldly walked into the church alongside Schultz, as if he owned the place. He had no fear. What was there for him to be afraid of? Yes, there was a supposed Hollow presence there. Alexander was in fact hoping it would be a strong one. He could use stretching out, yes. But regardless of the fact that he was not afraid nor concerned, he was on alert, his hands resting on his two Zanpakuto, and Alexander was ready to immediately put them to use should the need arise. He was energy blind though, so he didn't see any of the dark energy and it's manifestations, nor he could sense it. But still, the air... It seemed to smell just wrong to Alexander, though he couldn't figure out why. He just wrote it off as side effect of Hollow presence. Still, he wasn't worried too much, until Schultz spoke into the headset. "Mister Shinigami... There's... something really strange going on. I not only can sense, but also see the flow of spiritual energy and souls, and it's... really strange. Each of these people in the church... there are lines of dark spiritual energy flowing into them. Almost like Hollow energy, I think, though I can't be sure. But every one of them has it, twisting and flowing from somewhere at the front of the church. There are some lines that even go outside of the church, but they all seem to have the same source... I'm going to follow them. It may be the place where the Hollow is that's causing such a strange feeling in the air." Alexander briefly stopped walking, processing what he has just heard, before continuing and simultaneously talking to Schultz through radio. "Parasite, perhaps- in which case those people are probably being controlled. Follow where those lines lead, because Hollow or whatever this is will most likely be. We kill it, and they will be freed most likely. And if not..." Alexander thought it, but didn't say it. ... I will kill them all too.

As they kept on going, and people looked at Schultz, Alexander was getting the feeling that they could see him. It was a bit annoying, but he couldn't hide his presence anyway since his Reiatsu was always wildly flaring, so he was used to being out in the open, so to say. As they approached the altar, the feeling grew more and more annoying, but Alexander just shrugged it off, knowing that he could, should the need arise, take them on all at once. He hoped that wouldn't be the case, though, since it would bring him trouble later. Massacre of Humans carried out by a Shinigami would be hard to explain to Central 46, even if it was a Captain that did it. Plus, it would be a waste to just slay them right now since these were no circumstances under which Alexander could perform Konso on all of them. With that in mind, there was also one undeniable fact that Alexander was aware of. Every soul falling prey to Hollows or becoming one meant one less potential Shinigami. Thus, he just ignored the feeling and followed Schultz all the way to the altar, still ready to react in case of any threat. But when a priest approached Schultz and addressed him, Alexander reacted swiftly. As Schultz started to turn around, Alexander quickly whispered in his headset. "Now just... No, don't look at me! Ignore me and act casually. Just try to extract some info." Schultz seemed to have received the message, since he started to talk with the priest, a bit nervously though, but still getting information.

As priest spoke to Schultz, Alexander listened and analyzed what he was hearing. To him, it was all mumbo-jumbo fit for ignoring. It must be one of those Hydra cults I have read about. Hydra cults? Where did that come from? Well, add a practical joke from Alexander's subordinates and some Captain America comic books that were presented to Alexander as official newspaper from Human World, and get Alexander to analyze it- this was expected to be a result. Well, that at least meant he could infiltrate them! Also, he could test if they could see or hear him. So, he yelled as loud as he could. "HAIL HYDRA!" As nobody responded nor even as much as looked up towards him, Alexander corrected his assumption that they could see him. They clearly couldn't see him, and he could literally shit down on them without being noticed. Not that he wanted to, but he could. Still, he wouldn't do it because it was extremely undignified for a member of a great Shinigami race to shit down on lowly humans. But as priest started walking, and Schultz followed, Alexander followed too. "Shinigami, sir, the feeling of dark energy is coming from that doorway that he's leading us through, and the sensation of darkness is getting stronger. I'm sorry for assuming the lead here for a moment; it's really hard working with an entity most people can't see." "Just keep a low profile and carry on. I am here to eliminate the presence, not to analyze Hydra cults, so it's alright to go ahead." Yes, Alexander was dead serious. He had zero interest in the cult. All he wanted was to kill the presence and go back to his work.

As they walked down the hallways, though, Alexander grew concerned. The feeling of something being very wrong here didn't leave him, and it just became stronger and stronger. Alexander could almost smell evil in the air. It was unsettling. Very unsettling. Still, as priest showed them into a room, feeling intensified, multiplied tenfolds. It was now very annoying to Alexander. Still, when he saw a mirror in the center of the room, he was disappointed. He expected something else. Where is twenty feet tall statue of hydra with nine heads? They have just this tiny mirror and dare call themselves a cult? Still, Alexander carefully looked around the room, searching for anything else, but he failed to see anything. As priest blabbered more about the cult, Alexander started to feel the urge to look into the mirror. More and more, he felt the need to do that. Ordinarily, his willpower would just deflect such silly things, but with Alexander already annoyed with the feeling of evil present, he gave into the temptation. Screw it, I'm taking a look. After all, what can it do to me? I am a Shinigami, and it's just a small, harmless mirror. I bet it wouldn't even fight back[/color][/i] Alexander then froze for a second. What was happening to him? His thoughts were too similar to Okusa at that last moment. It was not good. Alexander was getting influenced by something, and he had no idea what it was. He wanted to get rid of that as soon as possible.

Approaching a mirror, he looked into it. He saw whole lots of his faces looking back, some normal, some distorted. And then, colors started to fade. Then they exploded back, and Alexander was blinded despite wearing sunglasses. World suddenly turned into a vortex of colors, swirling around Alexander at incredible speed. He couldn't make out his surroundings anymore, nor he could hear anything. He tried to speak, but no words passed his lips, it was futile to try more. He couldn't move anymore, and then it all started to fade. Alexander struggled to resist the pull forward that he felt, but it seemed as if his muscles stopped responding to his brain's commands. He felt that he was going to pass out, as his pulse shoot up sharply, and cold sweat broke out. Still, Alexander pout his entire, massive willpower against it. He was well known for his mental strength in Soul Society, and it was virtually impossible to mentally break him. And now he put all that willpower to work, sending it all to combat this... whatever this was. Alexander felt that he somehow had to remain conscious at all cost, his instincts were telling him that he was done for if he passed out. So he struggled. He fought. Yet, it was enough to stave it off only a second, which felt like a lifetime to Alexander, yet he still somehow knew that it was just a moment of real time. Still, as he felt the floor falling underneath him, he mustered strength for one last thought. Fuck.. Then darkness consumed him, and flow of time stopped.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Skills were changed in CIU, so here are new ones}[Weapons: Swords] [4]

[Martial Arts: Hakuda] [3]

[Battle Analysis] [3]

[Strength of Will] [3]

[Damage Recovery] [1]