Cartwheels Down Memory Lane [Closed, Joint-Training]

[Marcus Cole]

Harle was a symbol of light to Marcus. She had brought out all of the good hidden within him and suppressed the demons that had terrorized the knight of Uzaki Enterprise for far too many years. Marcus viewed himself as a pitiful case with no hope that could only find belonging in service. And because of that, he devoted his life first to a cult and then to a more worthy cause under Kazura. But Harle was planting new seeds of thought in him, dragging his self-esteem out of the bottomless pit it had been trapped in and giving his life new meaning. Marcus was no longer just Kazura’s servant. Harle defined a new part of his life, one that was more intimate and personal that allowed Marcus to break out of his mental shackles.

So why was he so afraid? Fear in the human collected in his abdomen, causing torrents of butterflies to fly against the lining of his stomach. He was nervous and scared, but why? The truth is that this was unchartered territory for the Fullbringer. He had never had such a close bond form so quickly with another person. Marcus had always been intent on working alone, even on assignments for Uzaki Enterprise. He just never got along with other people. It’s not that he never tried. Something in Marcus’s brain just didn’t comply, and he spent over one-third of his life isolated from any emotions such as love, trust, and even friendship. His worship of Kazura was the closest thing he had to that, but Harle was different. The man didn’t fear Harle, he just feared the relationship growing between them. He didn’t know what to expect or how to act, but when it came down to it, none of that mattered as long as the alluring Jester was by his side. As long as he could find peace in those flawless, ocean-deep eyes when he wasn’t strong enough to stand alone.

"Harle. . will beez a light for Marcus. . En Marcus. . will beez a light for Harle." The Fullbringer opened his mouth to say something, but, not for the first time that night, he couldn’t express his thoughts and retreated. He couldn’t find a way to tell the woman how much she meant to him. He didn’t know how to say that she made his heart pound like a drum with just a look. He couldn’t share that just holding her in his arms made him feel on top of the world. The words he wanted were out of reach, but they had never been so loud. Marcus couldn’t even look back at the man he once was when he woke up. He couldn’t go back to that.

"Thank you. . .Would Marcus. . show Harle all zat he knows?" All that he knows… Marcus couldn’t exactly teach his superhuman speed and extreme physical strength. Those were attributes he acquired through spiritual enhancement as well as his own devotion towards maximizing the potential of his body. Marcus could beat any human in an arm wrestle with only his pinkie, and it wouldn’t take an ounce of effort. Marcus could literally run circles around a sprinting Hussain Bolt without breaking in sweat or panting. Marcus’s physical condition was the root of his strength in battle and as an Uzaki Enterprise official, so he hesitated when Harle asked him to teach her.

Marcus watched Harle gracefully flip backwards as she descended towards the ground, landing lightly on her feet. The Fullbringer wasn’t worried about her at all, for he had faith that the jester was more than capable of handling a small fall. "Come Marcus. . Show Harle." He was compelled to follow her, so Marcus mirrored her actions perfectly, landing next to the woman without making a sound as his feet touched the ground. That was a product of his acrobatic skill mixed with his developed stealth.

"Harle will. . umm. . share what she knowz too." The Fullbringer’s wide eyes watched intently as Harle executed a flawless combination of black flips and spins that was finalized with a graceful transition into a cartwheel. Harle was every bit as good an acrobat as Marcus. She used reiatsu and air ground to make up for the strength and speed gap, but other than that, her balance was excellent and her aerial maneuvers were perfect. He wanted to try mimicking her, trying the same stunt to see how he’d do. It would be new, so Marcus was bound to make a small mistake or two, but he wanted to give it a shot. But…

No, he had to do things differently. She was elegant and fluid, and Marcus had that aspect in himself, too. But he spent too much time in his life applying his acrobatic skill to combat. He was an acrobat, but there was more than that to him. “Umm, w-watch…” He didn’t know how to tell her that he was a fighter and a soldier and even a murderer if he had to be. He was an assassin. Marcus wasn’t just some innocent guy who could see ghosts. He knew Harle wasn’t a gentle girl that lived a peaceful life, either. Shinigami typically weren’t like that. They had to fight too. They had to kill too. They worked for someone too. Marcus and Harle weren’t too different in that sense, but she had yet to find out about that side of him. She could have guessed based on his strength as speed, but he would confirm it in a few seconds.

Marcus drew six kunai from a pouch attached at his waist, holding three between the fingers of each hand. He flashed Harle a weak smile before his face melted into serene focus. Turning toward the far side of the circus, with Harle to his side, Marcus crossed his arms in preparation and whipped his hands outward, releasing the six kunai all at once. They flew in random directions. Somewhere higher or lower than others, and they trailed diagonally as well as straight. It didn’t matter, though, for before throwing them, Marcus implanted a small amount of reiatsu into each throwing blade. They were thrown with Marcus’s full force, which reflected on their incredible speed. However, their trajectory was about to change.

Marcus would activate Ninja Art: Jet, the technique he ingrained in each of the blades. No matter which direction they were moving, how far they had spread from the man who threw them, the kunai would all suddenly witch direction and fly back at Marcus with the same speed that they traveled with earlier. Marcus was quick on his feet, both literally and metaphorically. He also knew what was coming, so as soon as he released the kunai, Marcus’s hands went to the eskrima sticks strapped at his belt. They came off easily, and he rose them to his chest before bending his legs and springing into the air.

Marcus executed a corkscrew flip, spinning so quickly in the air that he looked like a tornado. Everything was happening so quickly that Harle would see his actions as a blur. The kunai would be a blur as well as the sped toward the Fullbringer. Marcus’s corkscrew was at it’s peak with his head pointing to the ground and his feet pointing up. In this position, he avoided three of the kunai speeding just below him, one of which grazed the hair at the top of his head. He was a hurricane of speed and agility. Even as he spun and flipped, Marcus was aware of everything. He knew of two kunai that were heading toward him, one aimed at the face and the other at the left shoulder. But all Marcus had to do was extend his hands slightly and accurately swat the blades with his eskrima sticks in a furious typhoon.

The last of the kunai was off target, and it soared past him harmlessly. Harle was a safe distance from all the blades, so she didn’t need to worry at all. When Marcus landed on the ground, his feet would slide against the ground as the friction stopped his whirl. His breathing had gotten noticeably heavier, but he wasn’t out of breath. Just one flip, even if it was that incredibly fast, wasn’t going to take out too big of a chunk of his stamina. It was mostly the adrenaline pumping from the thrill of being in danger. But Marcus couldn’t possibly have hurt himself. He was too fast and too good.

The Fullbringer turned to Harle, but his gaze glued to the ground. He fiddled with his eskrima sticks before eventually clipping them to the ground. The man was shifting between both legs like a nervous puppy hiding its tail. “Umm, I… I-I’m not… I’m not a n-normal guy…” It was all coming back. The anxiety, the stuttering, the fear. He was scared. Uzaki Enterprise and Soul Society didn’t always get along. They coexisted, but that didn’t mean there was always peace. Shinigami weren’t considered allies, and Marcus was scared that Harle would look at him under a different light after she finds out where his loyalties lie. But it was best to spit it out now than waste time.

“I w-work f-for Kazura Uzaki…” The man was wanted and had a 60,000 ryo bounty on his head. He was a big deal, the biggest big-shot human. And Marcus was his right-hand man. “You’re a sh-shinigami so I-I….” He couldn’t finish a sentence. Marcus was regressing to his old ways just from the idea that Harle’s loyalty to Soul Society and hatred for any organizations that didn’t cooperate was greater than her feelings for him. He was scared that she would break the pieces that she had so carefully put back together.

Reiatsu Remaining: 1500/2100 (-600 for six Ninja Art: Jet)

Combat Posts: 1/6

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

<sub>"K-kazura. . U-uza-ki. . ." The name itself was more than familiar to the Lieutenant. An officer position that she herself was in provided sufficient information on the detailed workings and operations within the Soul Society. Not equaled to the level of detail that the Captains would have access to, but more of a formality that Lieutenants were to be made aware of what transpires within their home. There were many reports of encounters with Uzkai and those that were employed with the man. Although she herself had never met the man the several sources and encounters that numerous Shinigami that were forced to engage him were described in detail. Harle had skimmed through such reports and while not all of the members were known, but should one be found it was up to the Shinigami to eliminate them.

That was the idea. To eliminate with extreme prejudice before they themselves were killed. It was no more than a situation of life and death. Kill or be killed. None other would agree more than her own Captain. He would have done so without so much as a wince at the idea. Squad Two was a division of assassins and covert operatives that sought out the enemy and remove them before they caused hideous acts of evil against the Seireitei, and to its people. To her new home, and which she had spent many years growing to love a bit. However. . .

“Umm, I… I-I’m not… I’m not a n-normal guy…” His words were digressing back into how he was before. Marcus' confidence and strength was eroding away like time itself. Harle never knew what his own occupation was from the start. With his abilities and overwhelming strength and speed, he would be deemed an asset to Mister Uzaki. The man's skills with small sticks and Kunais only sunk the idea further into her head. Every thing that he did.. that he was made it the more obvious. Even more so that when she had provided her own introduction without thinking, Marcus knew that they were enemies. Which did explain his hint of aggression and caution towards her from the beginning. But, he did not act upon his instincts. Nor to the fact that they were on opposite sides.

Traditional the very idea of being face to face with your foe would provide all the reason to attack without the need to wait or to speak. Marcus instead spoke to Harle. He offered so much that would be recognized as a friend rather than an enemy. Stereotyping is what the Shinigami could have thought about and often led to conflict. That is not what Harle saw. Even with her awe struck face Harle did not see Marcus as such. “You’re a sh-shinigami so I-I….”</sub>[/color] <sub>The very thought nearly broke her heart... She knew what his words were going toward, and that was not what she was thinking about him.

Looking back her mother was the same way. The treatment she had to endure against many that were different from her. Taken from her land and to be sold as some slave, as some whore. To be ravaged as a low life who would not amount to anything more than a pleasing doll. Her father, Sir Quinn, did not view her as such. What he saw was a woman who was removed from her home, lost, afraid, and alone. Her father did not see a harlot, but a woman who was an equal. And it was that first meeting that her father bought her mother, and set her free. Harle's mother told her the story on many of occasions when she lost faith and was frightened. To never judge someone by the actions of others.

Marcus' sins were not the same as the others who may work for Uzaki. Just as she was sinful in the acts she had to commit during her missions for the Seireitei, and as a Lieutenant of Squad Two... Harle was far from pure. Each step she took to close the growing emotional distance between the two humans, the thoughts of where their loyalties stood by, to whom they serve, and to what they must do... They may shaped the Jester into what they desired, but...."Harle...d-doze not think so, Marcus...." The gentle voice was now closer than ever, both saddened and hurt. The two were close as the Lieutenant approached the distraught man.

"No one... decides what Harle doze.. or who Harle iz.. But," Her heart beating against her chest with each quick breath that was drawn in. With his head eyes parallel to the ground her arms would wrap once more around neck. Delicately and caressing as a mother's gentle touch, their eyes would meet for a brief moment.."..Harle decides for herself." With those words spoken her trembling lips would find his, silencing her nerves and past demons, and hoping to free the man of his own bindings.</sub>

[Marcus Cole]

“K-kazura. . U-uza-ki. . .” Marcus grimaced as she slowly pronounced his leader’s name with a hint of recognition in her tone. She knew who Marcus was talking about, and any small ray of hope that Harle wouldn’t care about his origins was extinguished like the red of a wick fading after the flame had lost its fuel. The Shinigami most likely had orders to eliminate Kazura on site, or anyone affiliated with him for that matter. Marcus was Kazura’s ghost, his Winter Soldier. No one knew who Marcus was, but there was talk of a mysterious, black enigma that assassinated targets with lightning speed. The Fullbringer couldn’t help but confide in Harle, despite the dangers that came with it. She could inform Soul Society or any other factions against Uzaki Enterprise of Marcus’s identity, and that would limit his usefulness as an incognito assassin and spy.

In truth, that was the least of Marcus’s worries. What mattered to him most was what went through Harle’s head that very moment. She could draw her blade and strike, but Marcus wouldn’t counterattack. At best, he would dodge and avoid taking damage, but could he possibly throw a punch at Harle? His soul was already torn in too many pieces, and he wouldn’t be able to burn what remained of him to ashes. He trusted her with every bone in his body. He trusted her with his most valuable secret, his connection to Kazura. But to trust is to gamble, and luck never played well for Marcus. Misfortune was the cause of all the tragedies of his life. The only two strokes of luck he had were being rescued by Kazura and encountering Harle by chance.

But the Fullbringer was wrong to anticipate the worst. "Harle...d-doze not think so, Marcus...." The mans surprised gaze began to rise, though he hesitated to bring them all the way up to her eyes. Marcus was still scared, but he was beginning to realize something. He hadn’t considered that his feelings for the Soul Reaper flowed both ways, and that she would be just as reluctant to stand as his enemy as he. As usual, Marcus expected the worst from the world and the worst from himself. Defeating the unbeatable villain, getting the girl, and living happily ever after all sounded like it came out of a fairy tale, but he was starting to discover that there was some truth in it. He could at least find opportunity at happiness with some people, and Harle provided him with just that. So why was he so hesitant?

"No one... decides what Harle doze.. or who Harle iz.. But..” Marcus’s breath quickened, and time itself seemed to slow down. Soon, he lost awareness of his environment completely. The trapeze, the circus tent, and Karakura as a whole faded into blackness. All he could hear was the pounding of his heart and Harle’s voice. "..Harle decides for herself."[/v] All he could see were Harle’s sapphire eyes as she gently placed her arms around his neck. All he was conscious of was how quickly Harle closed the distance between them. All he could feel was the touch of her soft, warm lips against his. Nothing else mattered to him.

For a brief moment, Marcus stood immobilized by shock, having expected his relationship with Harle to take a turn for the worst just moments ago. However, he quickly found himself leaning into the kiss, matching the movement of Harle’s lips. His eyes fell shut and Marcus’s arms moved to Harle’s hips, pulling her forward as he stepped towards her so that there bodies were pressed against each other. Marcus wouldn’t pull away for a few seconds.

His eyes were inches from Harle’s and his words came as whispers with his breaths in between. “Harle, You… I can’t…” He was once again tongue tied and unable to express his flustered thoughts. But he always found the words he was looking for as well as the ability to say them in Harle’s eyes. “I... We’re not supposed to be together, but…” Marcus hesitated slightly, for his next words would go against everything he stood for since he completely reformed his life several months ago. “But I never want to spend a moment without you.” Kazura wouldn’t be happy about this, but Marcus didn’t intend for him to find out. He hoped that Harle would also keep their relationship a secret. She was precious to him, and Marcus wouldn’t have anything get between them, so the best solution would be to hide their relationship from Kazura. From Soul Society. From anything that could make the one true source of Marcus’s happiness crumble.

[Marcus Cole]

“K-kazura. . U-uza-ki. . .” Marcus grimaced as she slowly pronounced his leader’s name with a hint of recognition in her tone. She knew who Marcus was talking about, and any small ray of hope that Harle wouldn’t care about his origins was extinguished like the red of a wick fading after the flame had lost its fuel. The Shinigami most likely had orders to eliminate Kazura on site, or anyone affiliated with him for that matter. Marcus was Kazura’s ghost, his Winter Soldier. No one knew who Marcus was, but there was talk of a mysterious, black enigma that assassinated targets with lightning speed. The Fullbringer couldn’t help but confide in Harle, despite the dangers that came with it. She could inform Soul Society or any other factions against Uzaki Enterprise of Marcus’s identity, and that would limit his usefulness as an incognito assassin and spy.

In truth, that was the least of Marcus’s worries. What mattered to him most was what went through Harle’s head that very moment. She could draw her blade and strike, but Marcus wouldn’t counterattack. At best, he would dodge and avoid taking damage, but could he possibly throw a punch at Harle? His soul was already torn in too many pieces, and he wouldn’t be able to burn what remained of him to ashes. He trusted her with every bone in his body. He trusted her with his most valuable secret, his connection to Kazura. But to trust is to gamble, and luck never played well for Marcus. Misfortune was the cause of all the tragedies of his life. The only two strokes of luck he had were being rescued by Kazura and encountering Harle by chance.

But the Fullbringer was wrong to anticipate the worst. "Harle...d-doze not think so, Marcus...." The mans surprised gaze began to rise, though he hesitated to bring them all the way up to her eyes. Marcus was still scared, but he was beginning to realize something. He hadn’t considered that his feelings for the Soul Reaper flowed both ways, and that she would be just as reluctant to stand as his enemy as he. As usual, Marcus expected the worst from the world and the worst from himself. Defeating the unbeatable villain, getting the girl, and living happily ever after all sounded like it came out of a fairy tale, but he was starting to discover that there was some truth in it. He could at least find opportunity at happiness with some people, and Harle provided him with just that. So why was he so hesitant?

"No one... decides what Harle doze.. or who Harle iz.. But..” Marcus’s breath quickened, and time itself seemed to slow down. Soon, he lost awareness of his environment completely. The trapeze, the circus tent, and Karakura as a whole faded into blackness. All he could hear was the pounding of his heart and Harle’s voice. "..Harle decides for herself." All he could see were Harle’s sapphire eyes as she gently placed her arms around his neck. All he was conscious of was how quickly Harle closed the distance between them. All he could feel was the touch of her soft, warm lips against his. Nothing else mattered to him.

For a brief moment, Marcus stood immobilized by shock, having expected his relationship with Harle to take a turn for the worst just moments ago. However, he quickly found himself leaning into the kiss, matching the movement of Harle’s lips. His eyes fell shut and Marcus’s arms moved to Harle’s hips, pulling her forward as he stepped towards her so that there bodies were pressed against each other. Marcus wouldn’t pull away for a few seconds.

His eyes were inches from Harle’s and his words came as whispers with his breaths in between. “Harle, You… I can’t…” He was once again tongue tied and unable to express his flustered thoughts. But he always found the words he was looking for as well as the ability to say them in Harle’s eyes. “I... We’re not supposed to be together, but…” Marcus hesitated slightly, for his next words would go against everything he stood for since he completely reformed his life several months ago. “But I never want to spend a moment without you.” Kazura wouldn’t be happy about this, but Marcus didn’t intend for him to find out. He hoped that Harle would also keep their relationship a secret. She was precious to him, and Marcus wouldn’t have anything get between them, so the best solution would be to hide their relationship from Kazura. From Soul Society. From anything that could make the one true source of Marcus’s happiness crumble.

Combat Posts: 1/6

Rest Posts: 1/3

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

<sub>There was not turning back. The path that the Shinigami decided to travel on led down to the road full of deception and possibly treason against the Soul Society. Uzaki was an enemy to the Shinigami, along with those associated with him and those he conducted business with. Unaware of whom that she was speaking to this entire time was none other than one of those associates of Uzaki, Marcus Cole. A man that appeared to be frail in terms of personality, which shrouded the precise unequaled strength of that of an assassin. Harle did not need to know what he did for Uzaki, but his talents and abilities alone directed her thoughts to focus onto that specific areas that deemed such qualities necessary. The need and use of such weapons as Kunai knives, the marvelous strength and speed, and the trait to detach himself away from the scenario. Whether it be due to his experiences or his overall personality, the Lieutenant has seen such skills and composure plenty of times within the shadows of the Squad Two Barracks.

An enemy is who trained to strike and to kill on orders, just as she was. However, that was not what the Jester saw standing before her. No. That was not the person that caressing her at this time. Harle did not judge people from the actions of others but how the individual conduct themselves. All of those thoughts lead to stereotyping, then grouping, and after.. a lost opportunity to gain a friend. In Harle's case, someone special to her. To her surprise that she actually took the first step with a bold upfront notion. On a regular base she avoided most contact with males. But not Marcus. He has shown his delicate nature. Even with a bumpy start the pair began to open up a bit and formed a connection through action instead of words. A good means to communicate.

A warm breath of air from the man as the two peeled away from the other, reflecting the glistening blue from the shine of the dim moonlight. He was so close to her that she could felt his heartbeat against her chest. His words could never fail her hearing, “Harle, You… I can’t… She understood his reasoning for saying so. The chance if something as connecting any further than they were now could them to disaster. The risks were tremendous for they were working for opposing sides. Enemies that desired nothing more but the eradication of the other. If it was discovered that they were lovers, or even friends, then the odds of survival, for the act of treason, would be close to zero. They were suppose to be fighting, to take the others life, but that was not what she desired. Not when she found someone she can relate to, someone who understands and is in the same predicament as she was.

The odds will be against them, but still...“I... We’re not supposed to be together, but…' he hesitates for a few moments as though he was summoning his courage, “But I never want to spend a moment without you.” His words were enough to have eyes shimmer with pools of water, tearing from the happiness ensuing within her heart. Of all the years in spirit form of living in confusion, loss, hiding, and fear this one still moment represented a beacon of light to the woman. In his arms she felt secured, she felt safe for the first time. Someone that she can be herself with, who was willing to accept her for who she was. "M-Monsieur Marcus makes Harle very happy. A-and... Harle understandz ze risks involved, but Harle... doze not care. Harle wantz to be wit Monsieur Marcus." And it was true. There will be risks involved, which was why Marcus was fearful of. But, that will not sway the Lieutenant from what she wanted.

There were other words that can be said to express her level of happiness but another kiss. Delicate and warm, reassuring that it was what she wanted and was not fearful of what was to come for the pair. She would have to keep it an absolute secret from everyone since rumors do spread like wild fire in the Seireitei. Especially in the position that she held, the Gotei 13 would immediately run an investigation to ensure that she was no spy or dealing with the enemy in some way. For they were to find out, then, the thoughts of what could happen did not even develop in her mind. Just an empty void of possibilities. Which was the reason why she could never allow anyone to find out.

Marcus was someone who was important to her. She grew fond of him to the point where parting ways with him would cause her heart to ache. More so to see him hurt. Harle didn't want to see that happen to him. The Shinigami absolutely did not want to bear witness to Marcus' suffering, and just thinking about it made her feel powerless and weak. Harle is the Lieutenant for Squad Two, meaning that she supported everyone in her group to succeed in everything that they do, and will do the same for Marcus, "Harle will be a sword and shield for Marcus. Harle will protect Marcus, even if ze world ends." Another blush filled smile lit across the creamy white face of the Jester.

"Harle needs to be stronger to protect Marcus. So, will you teach me?" There was nothing that she wanted but to stay in his arms, but she knew what will come with such commitment. And to where she stood now it current abilities would be of no use in protecting him. She needed more... She needed the strength to fight that of a Captain.</sub>

[Marcus Cole]

Marcus was taking a big step in his life, one of the first that he’s made on his own, independent of the wishes of those he served. To detach himself from everything that he had known previously was nerve-wracking to say the least, but he knew there was always someone he could lean on and he could always be someone that she could put her faith in. All outside pressures and worries vanished for just a moment as Marcus felt Harle’s joy radiating through her crystal blue eyes. As long as Harle was happy and that they could be together, he could tank any hindrances that may come their way.

“M-monsieur Marcus makes Harle very happy. . A-and. . Harle understanz ze risks involved, but Harle. . doze not care. Harle wantz to be wit Monsieur Marcus.” To hear that Marcus’s feelings toward Harle flowed both ways. The Fullbringer felt the butterflies in his stomach do backflips and aerial stunts as his lips met with Harle’s once again. The thrill was similar to the feeling one would get while descending on a roller coaster. Each touch gave him an intoxicating rush, and Marcus was hesitant to pull away from the gentle kiss.

The Fullbringer’s eyes were lively and dancing as opposed to the distance that they usually display. Marcus was acting as an individual rather than a representative of his employer, and he found that there was more to life than service. Marcus had inhabited a vacuum for much of his recent life, and Kazura and Uzaki Enterprise were the only things were holding onto. But this was the start of a new life for the assassin. For once, he actually had someone he cared for on a personal level. For once, he actually had something to lose and there was no way he would let someone he cared for slip through his fingers. Not again.

“Harle will be a sword and shield for Marcus. .Harle will protect Marcus, even if ze world ends.” Marcus was taken by surprise, and his eyes widened slightly. The assassin had taken it upon himself to care for and protect Harle, but he hadn’t anticipated that she desired to keep him from harm as well. His eyes hardened with determination and focus, for every word he spoke next was a promise. “And I will do the same.” There was no room for stuttering, for Marcus was dead serious. He wasn’t going to let anyone lay a finger on Harle or bring tears to her eyes. As happy as he was, his will to protect the person he cared for had priority.

“Harle needs to be stronger to protect Marcus. So, will you teach me?” With a nod, Marcus released Harle from his embrace and stepped back. “I-I’ll try…” The Fullbringer wished that he could spend a few more minutes with Harle in paradise, but it was time to come down to Earth for a bit. Marcus was more than familiar with the desire to become stronger, and he devoted the majority of time into training for that sole purpose. If Harle was to do the same, she would need to push herself as far beyond her limits as possible, eventually breaking them. It was the tactic that worked for Marcus, and it allowed him to achieve superhuman fitness. Perhaps Harle needed to see where she came short in real combat.

Marcus leaped backwards, putting a gap of approximately twenty meters between himself and Harle. He decided that the best way to help her improve was to simulate a fight. “Try attacking me… don’t hold back.” Marcus was confident that he could hold his own or dodge whatever she threw at him with his miraculous speed. And if she had other tricks up her sleeve, he was more than capable of tanking a blow. However, his whole purpose would be counter-attacking and exposing any weaknesses he identifies. Marcus wouldn’t land a hit, but he would get close enough to show Harle where she may have been vulnerable.

Combat Posts: 1/6

Rest Posts: 2/3

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

<sub>The man's words could never have brought her more happiness than what already felt. Gitty with joy and flushed with a new sense of purpose, rather than what the Soul Society had placed upon her, Harle was able to establish a new venue in her life. Instead of duty to those that have taken her in she now had found something that she may call her own. Something special only to her. And hopefully in time their connection would bloom into something beautiful. Like a dormant flower waiting for its time after being nourished and cared for, Harle has wandered aimlessly for the Soul Society to only find the one for her in the world of the living. She had fulfilled one of her goals by discovering a remarkable man in the world that she was forced to leave.

On opposite sides that desired nothing more than the others destruction, the two dared to close the neutral gap and into each others arms. Undoubtedly there will be many conflicts should they be discovered, and of course the means that it will take to protect their secret life together, but the Jester was assured that no one would interfere. May it be from Uzaki or Soul Society, Harle was more than determined to protect what she held most precious to her. Which was why the yearning for strength was required. To continue to grow and fight to protect the man before her. Such resolved must be unwavering and so reflected in her pools of blue eyes. At the time, there was nothing more that she desired than to live a happy life with him.

“Try attacking me… don’t hold back.” He was accepting her and more than willing to put her to the test, to help make her strong. He understood what she wanted and was accepting her will, her desire to protect something dear to her. A gleeful nod was her response to him, but a heart felt gloom plagued her. From her past recollection the very tent they were in was a precious memory to Marcus. Something he held dear to me, something that he treasured. With Harle's potential as a Lieutenant, by "not holding back" will result in minor damage to the already ruined tent. Its very age was shown on the cracking creases and worn out bleachers. The tattered cloths and degenerating column posts, practically with enough force could bring the entire tent down upon them, along with Marcus' cherished memories. Harle could not do that to him.

Reviewing her new options by filtering out the destructive Hado and Bakudo spells, the Shinigami will have to out maneuver and engage in close combat with the man. That will be a problem to say the least. Based on what he already demonstrated he was much quicker than she was, and without the indication of reiatsu from him she can not determine his strength in such category. From that she will have to narrow it down to pure physical strength. His display with the knife and hand gesture from before had also provided another food for thought. So, from what she could put together she will have to engage and push herself to her limits to attempt to even keep up with him.

"Okay Monsieur Marcus, Harle will fight wit allz of her strength." Soft spoken as she reached behind her to retrieve her short bladed Zanpakuto. A flimsy blade that resembled more of a knife than a sword. A double edged weapon with the make up of the classic throwing knife. Easy to twirl around her fingers and wrist with her near mastery of knives and her experience with such tools in the field of entertainment. A series of quick fluttering swipes from the twirling blade before coming to a complete stop in her hand. She was determined to push herself but at the same time without hurting Marcus either. With such a thought in mind she would switch her handling to have the blades edge directed toward her and the butt of her hilt facing the man.

A soft blue hue of reiatsu emitting from both hand the Shinigami charged forward at a steady pace at the man. A seemingly reckless approach to go against a much stronger opponent, but being an illusionist had provided a means to alter and surprise her audience with the a flashy display to catch their eyes, and away from the real trick behind the act. Pouncing off her right foot into a spiraling corkscrew toward the man, both arms had extended away from her to cast her Hado spells, "Hado #23: Tama (Ball)" Such words spoken within her mind two times, with her proficiency in Mental incantation, the spells will be cast without the man's knowledge in which spell would be used. With the incantation muttered twice in her mind to conjure a single green sphere will be fired from both hands to bounce around the interior of the tent. From the cloth of the ceiling to the bleachers, both green balls will eventually find their mark as they close in to the pair, and for Harle to maneuver around them with her energy sensory within a confide space.

Enough said when the Jester switched the handling of her Zanpakuto into her left hand to be thrown midsection of the man. Undoubtedly, Marcus will be able to dodge due to his speed, but another means to distract him as the woman manages to land on her two feet, and engage the man in hand to hand combat. Or rather feet to hand combat as she pounced off the dirt floor once more for a front flip to deliver a right heel kick to the man's left shoulder.</sub>

SPOILER: Click to show

[Overall Points - 1100]

Type: ( Clown - Level 2 )

Strength - [100] Points

Speed - [200] Points

Spiritual Pressure - [150] Points (50% - 225 )

Reiatsu Strength - [300] Points (50% - 450 )

Light Aura - [60] Points

Dark Aura - [40] Points

Instinct - [150] Points (35% - 97 )

Senses [100] Points (35% - 65 )

Energy sensory - [100] Points (2/3 - 33 )

Healing Expertise - [0] Points

Items

7' x 7' solid white drapes = x2
Smoke bomb = x4
Flash bomb = x4
French Deck [52 card Deck] = x2

[Remaining Reiatsu : 2150/2250 : -50 Class 6 Kido Tama x2]

[Marcus Cole]

Marcus was happy to see that Harle was taking this training and seriously as he was. The assassin hated combat from the bottom of his heart, but when the motive and purpose was protecting one he cared about, or teaching her out to protect herself, Marcus was more than willing to jump into a sparring session. The only other situation when he engaged in a fight would be if Kazura assigned him a mission. There were very few other situations that forced him to pull out his fists or eskrima sticks.

The first thing that Marcus noticed was Harle’s Zanpakuto. It was much smaller than most of the katana Zanpakuto Marcus had seen Shinigami wield, but he figured that she was more than capable of using it. Just with a glance, he could guess that it was waited appropriately for being thrown, much like the kunai he used. Unless Harle had been concealing much of her strength, he would be capable of dodging the projectile blade with relative ease. All that he had to do was keep tabs on the weapon.

Marcus wasn’t surprised that Harle opened with an acrobatic corkscrew flip in the air. However, she didn’t take into consideration the significant gap between their speeds. In the time that she was off the ground, Marcus could easily have delivered an attack to her while she was vulnerable. However, he could feel her reiatsu spike. Marcus’s energy sensory was barely present, but he could feel it when someone was focusing his or her reaitsu. It was just barely there. Therefore, he was cautious when his arms darted to his waist and drew three kunai, two in one hand and one in the other.

Harle would feel Marcus focus his reiatsu, but she wouldn’t quite realize that he had placed the reiatsu into the kunai, especially since she was focused on her own maneuver, With her hands extended, Marcus watched as an emerald sphere shot out from each of her palms, but their trajectory was way off. Marcus new that there was no immediate threat from the technique, but they had a some strange property that could endanger the Fullbringer, so he made sure to keep a lookout for them with the corners of his eyes as he carried out his own plan.

The Uzaki Enterprise assassin continued to move his arms at his full speed so that he could carry out his attack before Harle touched the ground. After she had released the Kido and began descending, he would cross both his arms and whip them back, throwing one kunai from each hand. They were aimed carefully, and rather than heading straight at Harle, each would pass just inches from each side of her and continue flying out of the tent, leaving gaps in the tent cloth that they pierced through. By launching the kunai with all his strength, he knew that they would continue to spread out in a cone while getting lost in the forest.

The message would be clear to Harle: don’t leave yourself exposed in the air. In the human world, it would be easy to for a spiritually skilled fighter to get out of a bad situation with air ground. However, even a master acrobat would have difficulty setting up air ground in the middle of a flip. Therefore, it was best to be cautious in a fight rather than take such bold risks. Marcus had learned that as a teenager through his experiences in a dark, bitter reality, and those skills he learned aid him every day.

The human backed off a few steps as he unfocussed his eyes, allowing him to keep a tab on Harle as she landed while seeing the green Kido in his peripheral vision. They reiatsu balls could bounce, so Marcus made sure that he was prepared to dodge the instant that any ricocheted toward him. However, he had another problem at hand, for Harle had thrown her blade and it was soaring toward him.

Marcus was well versed in the Philipino martial arts, Eskrima, which relied heavily on careful footing placement. It broke footing down into a basic triangle, and with that image in mind, Marcus moved his right foot to the point of the triangle behind him, his left foot allowing him to pivot to the side and narrowly avoid the blade. But, just to be safe, Marcus used the remaining kunai he held in his left hand to deflect it to the side incase she could somehow redirect it. After all, he didn’t know what Harle was capable of quite yet.

And maybe that’s why this training session was so important. Marcus found it difficult to express his emotions verbally, though Harle did manage to speak his heart. However, the best way to get to know him was through understanding his actions and even his fighting style. They reflected on the training he had in the circus, where he learned Eskrima from the Phillipino brothers that traveled and preformed their martial arts with them. It’s also where he learned to throw kunai initially from a knife-throwing specialist. It’s where he grew up and developed his acrobatic skills. It’s where he was truly himself before the world around him crumbled beneath his feet. Marcus relived slivers of his past life with every maneuver in a battle, though he didn’t quite realize it.

Harle was using her affinity towards gymnastics well, and Marcus could say that he was surprised when she transitioned into a summersault with the intention of slamming her heel into his shoulder rather than engage in traditional hand-to-hand combat. However, there was one flaw with that action. She had known about Marcus’s kunai before the fight had even begun, and although they were ranged weapons, the blades could also be wielded as knives. Therefore, Marcus decided to give the Shinigami another silent pointer.

When she brought her heel down, Marcus was more than fast enough to catch her by the ankle, essentially blocking the strike. From there, he did two things. The first was activating the technique he planted into his kunai before he threw them, Ninja Art: Tri-Shadow. It would paralyze Harle, despite the difference in their spiritual strength. All that it required was that Harle was in the triangle made by the three kunai. Had all this succeeded, the round would be over and Marcus hoped that Harle had benefitted from it, despite his silent mentorship.

The stun would only last a few of seconds, but as Harle was immobile, Marcus would place his right hand on her back to balance her as he slowly placed her leg down. That way, when she would regain the control of her body in a comfortable, standing position. From there, Marcus would just wait, letting his breathing slow and the adrenaline fade from his bloodstream, for just using Tri-Shadow was taxing for him. However, he wouldn’t hesitate to keep going. Harle would be the one to decide if she was up for another round or if she’d rather rest for a little bit. He definitely wouldn’t mind a few more peaceful moments with her in his arms before the resumed the sparring. Just the thought reddened his cheeks and warmed his eyes slightly.

Reiatsu Remaining: 900/2100 (-600 for Ninja Art: Tri-Shadow)

Combat Posts: 2/6

Rest Posts: 2/3

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

<sub>She knew that Marcus was quick from the beginning of their little sparring session, but she didn't expect that her ability over power his own spiritual abilities would be for not. From what she was able to discover was his insufficient spiritual power was minimal to nonexistent, but sadly to the Lieutenant's own recklessness that she walked right into his trap. There was not a single doubt that she could have defeated her newest companion without pushing herself to the limit. However, even so, there was still much that she learned from the brief moments together with Marcus.

Although the Shinigami did not flourish her own power as a Lieutenant, her own foundation was able to discover the errors that made her vulnerable. Each movement she took left openings that she did not take into consideration. For up against someone who was much quicker and physically stronger than herself, Harle will have to complicate her tactics to disguise her techniques for a greater opportunity to attack and defend. Marcus was more than kind enough to reveal her faults. Through his own methods of instruction, it was pointed out that her movements had to be more considerate. She left herself open to an attack during her maneuvering. And idiotic thought on her behalf.

Were it an actual foe, she would be dead already. His knives were thrown just past her cheek with incredible power behind its thrust. At such speed with inhuman strength supporting it, the Shinigami would have met her maker within the moment. Luckily, it was not an actual fight. But Harle could not make any more blunders. Not in front of Marcus and not as a representative of Squad 2. Her partner was showing the flaws that she had. More so with her next attack. Her surprise kick was able to catch him off guard for the quick moment, however, his own abilities were able to put a stop to her acrobatics.

As nimble as she was, the French woman would not be able to pull herself out of the situation. To her surprise she found that Marcus activated a spell that was unfamiliar to her. Aside from the Kido arts that she was proficient at, his magic was different. Most likely using the same means as all magic does she was still unable to see the medium that was used to trigger the spell. All that the woman was able to decipher was the jolt of energy surging through her body, causing her body to tense up and fall back. A wince of discomfort forced itself from the depths of her heart to grunt from the sensation.

Even more lucky for her that Marcus was still same in sparring as he was before. Maybe it was because he was dealing with her, or maybe not. Even with her body unable to move the man prevented her decline to the ground by holding her back. It was not so bad. His fingers were able to hold firmly around her curved hip to help support her back. Harle didn't know what kind of expression she should be making. A tense gaze of discomfort, perhaps a smirk of amusement, or maybe a warm cackling smile as he held her.

A few moments passed for Harle to grasp feeling into her body once more. But, she felt that she didn't want to stand on her two legs just yet. She found the current situation much more soothing than what she thought possible with a man. Instead of standing she would cling onto the Fullbringer by coiling her arm around the back of his neck to support her. The reddening of his face did catch her sapphire gaze as such as she was thinking the same thing. What could be better than being close to someone like this? Her desire to grow stronger for Marcus' sake was her driving force, but she could do so at anytime. Knowing full well that the two were on opposite sides, and that no one can learn of their secret meant that they will only have little to no time with each other.

That thought did bring a frown to her face. She wanted nothing more than to enjoy the time she had with Marcus. He was the only one that she felt comfortable with. Is not enough to ask to spend time with the one that you adore? When her arms curled around his neck, her legs followed suite as they kicked up joint together for his other arm to support them. Altogether, the form would become the legendary princess carry. There was not possible way for her keep herself from chuckling against the man's chest. Like a child clinging onto their parent as they begged to be carried. It would be her first time that she was in such a pleasant atmosphere.

"Monsieur Marcus, iz warm...." She spoke. Softly as a lover does for the one special to her. "Harle iz tired Monsieur Marcus, and est la transpiration [is sweating] very much, she gestures to her wet top piece. The thin layer of the silk body suit glued to her chest from the wrinkled white vest, "Iz it fine wiz Monsieur Marcus if Harle can use hiz quarterz. Harle...hmmm..If iz fine whiz Monsieur Marcus?" A friendly proposition since the Jester disliked running around in dirty clothing, but even more while covered in sweat. Besides, it provided her the opportunity to spend time with Marcus. The only issue she had was the fact that she would be imposing on him, and she didn't want that.

"Harle.. wouldz like to train mo.. But, not in ze place that Monsieur Marcus holdz dear. Harle doze not want.. to destory une bonne [good] mémoire." She placed the decision into Marcus' hands, and will follow what he decided regardless of the outcome. For now, she just wanted to spend time with him, with the person that she wanted to be with for what little time they may have.</sub>

[Marcus Cole]

Marcus was enjoying the blissful moment as Harle placed her gentle hands on his neck, preferring to stay in their warm embrace after the brief sparring. Marcus could feel the warmth of her quick, heavy breaths, and his lungs and heartbeat aligned. While his tired breaths slowed down, his heart pounded against his chest like the wings of an eagle. No adrenaline pumping through his blood from demanding, fast-paced combat could compare with the euphoric high he could only get around Harle.

Yet, for some reason, he saw her lips tilted down in a subtle frown. Oh no, Marcus’s heartbeat began to quicken. Somehow, he had disappointed Harle, and although he had no clue what he could have possibly done wrong, the guilt and worry gathered in his gut. Marcus’s eyes were forcefully pulled away from Harle’s alluring sapphire gaze, and they quickly found the far less pleasant view of his feet.

“I-I’m s-sor-“ Marcus was about to apologize blindly when, suddenly, Harle sprung into action. She suddenly kicked off with her legs and leaped into the air into a horizontal position, her arms still wrapped around Marcus’s neck. His instincts suddenly kicked in, and the most logical thing to do with such little time was to catch her with much thought, a task that Harle made very easy thanks to the position she placed herself in with that jump. There was no doubt that she just wanted Marcus to carry her, and acting was so much more fun and simpler than asking.

The Fullbringer could feel Harle shaking with laughter as she pressed her face into his muscular chest. With a confused glance down, Marcus found Harle beaming and his uncertainty and worry was instantly replaced by a wave of relief and rush of joy. He had nothing to fear, all was well and all would remain well. Marcus was no stranger to having the best things in life snatched right out of his grasp, and he refused to even let himself imagine what it would be like not to have Harle in his life after meeting her and falling so hard for her. He held onto her tightly, fearful that she too would leave him when he least expected it.

However, the graceful Shinigami always expelled Marcus’s gnawing fears. “Monsieur Marcuz, iz warm…” A warm smile lightly tugged at his lips, and Marcus instinctively placed a gentle kiss at the top of Harle’s head while simultaneously thanking whatever gods that may or may not exist for bring the beautiful Soul Reaper into his life.

“Harle iz tired Monsieur Marcus, est la transpiration very much.” Marcus didn’t understand everything that she said, for he had little knowledge of French. His eyes followed her hands as she gestured to her sweat-drenched shirt which clung to and outlined every detail of her chest and body, causing Marcus’s face to flush a light shade of pink that he had to force back in hopes that she wouldn’t notice.

But what she said next truly caught Marcus by surprise and widened his eyes. ”Iz it fine wiz Monsieur Marcus if Harle can use hiz quarters. Harle… Hmmm… If iz fine whiz Monsieur Marcus?” Marcus’s face suddenly turned to the bright red shade of a fresh tomato. However, it was only a moment after his reaction that he realized that Harle hadn’t quite laid down what he picked up, and the embarrassment made his face glow with crimson.

“Um, I-“ Marcus suddenly coughed awkwardly to the side, averting his nervous gaze. “Uh, y-yes, I live here in K-karakura…” Without wasting any more time in awkwardness, Marcus began to rush back to the downtown area of the city, where his apartment was located. He ran at a fast pace, but made sure that his steps were gentle and light to make the trip as comfortable and brief as possible for Harle.

Deciding that rather than letting his recent error linger in Harle’s mind, Marcus changed the subject. “Harle, where do you live? Do you have a house in Soul Society, a family?” Marcus was interested in learning not just about what life in the other world was, but, more importantly, about Harle. As of now, he only knew of her training in acrobatics and the circus, but it was undeniable that there was so much more to the Shinigami, and Marcus wanted to truly know and understand the woman that he was so captivated by.

After a few minutes, thanks to Marcus’s incredible pace, they would reach the apartment. At this hour, very few people were wandering the streets and the Fullbringer had taken a path through the more remote part of town. Marcus’s home was located on the fifth and last floor of the apartment building. After clearing the flight of stairs, Marcus would trust Harle to keep ahold of his neck as his hand fished for the key in his pocket to unlock the door and let them in.

Marcus flicked a nearby switch upon entering the loft, suddenly illuminating the area. The front door opened up to a large spaced divided in two by invisible walls. The side nearest to the door was the living room. A sofa with two smaller couches by its side were set up around a large, flat-screen TV. He had a filled bookcase propped against one wall with a desk right beside it, where Marcus undoubtedly did much of his accounting for Uzaki Enterprise. Two windows were lined against one side of the living room, letting in moonlight and providing an admirable view of the street-lit downtown area where nighttime events and parties were still continuing, not that Marcus cared much for that. In fact, he made sure to avoid it.

On the other side of the room was a separated kitchen with flawless black, obsidian tiles and dark mahogany wood making up the cabinets that perfectly matched the wooden floor. A small glass table occupied a little space in the kitchen, and it wouldn’t be able to fit any more than the two chairs allowed it.

Between the two rooms was a corridor that ended with another window providing a similar view to the other two. On each side of the corridor was a door, one of which led to the bathroom and the other that acted as the entrance to his modestly empty bedroom. It only contained a queen-sized bed with black covers over it, a small nightstand, and a large walk-in closet that was only occupied by a small number of his business suits, his battle suit at the end in a glass case, and a few casual clothes that he rarely wore or had use for. Much of the closet was empty.

Marcus let Harle back onto her feet as they walked through the compact apartment, leading her to the bathroom. “Th-there should be a towel and robe ready for you when you shower,” Marcus told her, shooting Harle a benevolent smile. As she showered, he went into the kitchen and began preparing two omelets with onions, mushrooms, peppers, and swiss cheese cooked into it. On the side, he would set up two glasses of orange juice. The meal was simple and looked like a traditional breakfast, but Marcus didn’t know how to make much else. Breakfast was the only thing he needed to know how to cook, for he was rarely at home for the rest of the day. This was his best attempt at hospitality.

When Harle exited the shower, the meal would be prepared. After all, eggs only took a few minutes to prepare. Marcus would just be setting up the glass dining table as Harle walked out. “I wasn’t sure if you were hungry, so…” Marcus felt a little stupid and nervous. This was the first time that he had ever had company at his home, and the human wasn’t sure exactly what to do. Dinner, or breakfast in this case, seemed like the best route to go. He just prayed that Harle was hungry and happened to enjoy omelets.

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

<sub>There was a brief moment for the pair to gather the Shinigami's belongings before rushing out of the memory lane. The innocent memories that the two were able to reminisce of brought out the best of both of them, even with their own traumatic experiences. Despite the past setbacks they were able to find the light that resided within the darkness and carry them over into the present time. And it did show in both of them. With Harle's near phobia of male contact, who was now being carried by one, and with Marcus' inability to bond with someone, was now carrying Harle to place that would be considered off limits during the first meeting. They were breaking all of the rules besides the regulations that were established by their respective factions.

To her surprise that the man's home was located near by, well, a short distance away with her partner's speedy legs. The Shinigami remained clamped onto the man as they breezed through the alley ways and past the few wandering patrons. He thought it through to avoid the clusters of people and the areas where most would pass by, so he was able to maintain a constant rate of speed rather than decelerate at certain points. Even while on the move Harle was still comfortable in his arms, offering a quick sign of gratitude with a kiss on the cheek. In some ways it was humorous to see the man blushing, and most time she would prefer that instead of being disgruntled. During their trip he mentioned about her own home, "“Harle, where do you live? Do you have a house in Soul Society, a family?” Of course Harle was more than happy to answer him without worry.

"Harle rezides in ze store houses de Seireitei. No many people enter zeir, and zo Harle can do what she wantz." That was fact for Harle due to her fear of men, she could not remain in the barracks with her comrades. Her smile remained but regardless of her cover she was unable to hide the loneliness that was present. She dealt with such situations before and was use to it. The Lieutenant accepted that fact, "Az fo mi mama and mi papa, zey both died befoe Harle. Harle doze not have family en ze Soul Society." Another fact that the Shinigami didn't want to admit to but there was little that she could do, and she refused to lie about it. "But do not worry Monseiur Marcus, Harle iz fine. Harle iz use to it."

Another quick peck on the cheek as they arrived on location to the human's hold. After a moment or two they flew up the series of stairs to arrive at the man's door step. The while he was digging into his pockets the Jester suddenly drew up of the idea of a happily married couple arriving home after their ceremony. She couldn't help but flush with several different layers of red. From a bright blush of pink to a heated red. Those dreams were a long way from where they were now, but a side note... maybe not a bad idea. Like really, among all of those she has been around, the man's company was more than sheer bliss. So the Shinigami remained tuckered in the man's arms until he set her down upon entering.

A flicker of light illuminated the grand labyrinth of a room that the man had to himself. A bland appearance but nonetheless it was still marvelous. Almost like another store room if Harle had stacked and positioned some of the rations and supplies in a particular way. She was almost blown away by the aspect of how luxurious it was. A large flat box, two windows on the far side, and a bookshelf that is completely filled with what appeared to be records of some sort. That and the division between the large rooms evened the space of the two. What attracted her attention further into the complex was the banter of a party that echoed from the other side, which her curiosity led into an invisible.

A shocking revelation that her advance was halted by something that was not seen. Felt solid enough against her face when stepping into it. It was only a moment later that she realized that it was only glass wall. The flush of embarrassment rushed across her face, hoping that Marcus' view of her was not altered. But always a gentleman, Marcus was kind to escort her to the bathroom for her to wash up before glancing back at her with a genuine smile. He departed from her sight shortly after leaving the warmth that he was only able to produce within her heart. Among those within Squad Two who wore the dreary faces of death and steel, this man was honest and gentle from what she has witnessed.

That behavior did reinforced her resolve to further close the distance between them. Her clothes drenched with cold sweat, clung onto her skin as they were peeled off. She stood in her complete form in the embrace of the stream of warm water. Strands of bronze hair led the multiple streams of water down her bare back past her supple mounds and down the back of her legs. There was absolutely no better means to relieve the anxiety and filth from the body and mind than allowing the purifying beads to rid them. And suddenly, another thought emerged from the back of her mind. A means to better draw them closer to each other and eliminate her fears altogether. Such a bold move it would be for someone such as her.

An estimated time of ten minutes lasped before exiting the shower. Her clothing were still filthy by the sick aroma of her sweat and all there was to help conceal her body was nothing more than the bathrobe. Just as Marcus told her it would be at. The cotton material did cover her figure, but left several parts exposed. First off was her legs. The bottom portion, similar to the torso area, did split apart to reveal the inside of her thighs and bare feet, while the curves of her breasts were exposed. Not entirely for the sash kept the one piece robe tight along her slender figure. Few of the droplets remained on the tips of her neck length hair that were squeezed by wrist long white sleeves.

First time she had ever done something like this and truly did have her face burning red. Regardless of her inner turmoil, her composure remained the same as she approached the set table of a traditional breakfast display. “I wasn’t sure if you were hungry, so…” "Wow Monsieur Marcus, did you make zis yourself?" The display did puzzle her for a second to only be torn away from her inquiry by her grumbling abdominal. Her stomach was as honest as she was it seemed. Either way she was greatful to him, because they needed to keep their strength up, and at the same time she was hungry after all.

A rush of several different flavors swirled around in her mouth as her taste buds broke down the variety of ingredients. The omelets were delicious and had a unique taste to them since she never had them before in her life. So there a moment of hesitation at first when scooping up a portion. Such wonder ceased after the first bite. The Lieutenant did have her fill of the omelet and downed the sweet taste with the orange juice. Perhaps it was common for Marcus to have breakfast for dinner, which was not unheard of since there was a place called Denny's that did so.

A fluid wipe of the along the rim of her protruding lips as silence filled the air for the time. Fear and anxiety sprouted forth from the lingering idea she had while in the shower. She knew she wouldn't have another opportunity to rid herself completely of such fears of her past. She wanted nothing more to escape while devoting herself to the man. Now or never. To be taken by the past or move toward the future. Her fingers twiddle among themselves before coming to a conclusion, "M-Monsieur Marcus.. Harle... would like ... to, She prayed that her heart did not burst out of her chest in front of him, "..would like Monsieur Marcus help Harle overcome...her fears.... Please...sleep..wiz Harle." The French woman gestured by peeling away the top section by a few centimeters, and allowing the man to take control as her eyes reflected her yearning to push past her limit.</sub>

[Marcus Cole]

(( OOC: Sorry for taking so long, but here it is. ))

Marcus listened intently as Harle opened up the details of her life to him. She lived alone in Soul Society, which surprised him slightly. Harle did not seem like the type of person that Marcus was, an introvert who preferred to keep to himself and avoid as much contact with other’s as possible. Harle seemed more social, kind-hearted, and amiable, all of the things that Marcus wished he had in himself. Maybe she had other reasons for keeping to herself, and Marcus would leave it at that. He wasn’t going to judge Harle at all based on loose assumptions.

Now, Marcus couldn’t help but feel a mix of conflicting emotions when he discovered exactly how alone Harle seemed to be. He truly felt for her, having to live in the warehouse, but it wasn’t much different from Marcus’s situation. Both lost their families and live their current lives mostly on their own. Most might find the situation painful and miserable, but maybe it wasn’t so bad for them. Harle was the one who really explained it best. “But do not worry Monsieur Marcus, Halre iz fine. Harle iz use to it.” They had grown accustomed to their isolation, and often times, being an outcast was their preference. They were too strong to let it bother them. Bulletproof loneliness…

Marcus couldn’t help but reflect on their conversation as he waited for Harle to come out of the shower, and it brought a warm, almost nostalgic smile to his face. The topics weren’t the most pleasant or uplifting, but it made Marcus happy to get to know Harle. This was all so new to him. Harle was the first other person to step inside Marcus’s apartment as a guest. She was the first person that he could truly trust other than Kazura. It was a different dynamic than he was used to, one that was far too intimate and personal for him to remain in his comfort zone.

Of course he would have to expect a new aspect of his life to go alongside the woman of his dreams, but maybe there was a piece of him that was a bit scared of the change. There was a small piece of him that was wondering what on Earth he was doing, inviting the woman to his home. But that was the part that was overwhelmed with fear of how Harle would change Marcus, how she would teach him what it is like to truly know someone else and share his life with her. How could he not be scared? But, at the same time, another part of Marcus was eager to dive into a new world, as long as Harle was beside him. And that was the only part that mattered.

It was as these thoughts were running through Marcus’s head that Harle had emerged from her shower and came to find the table ready. Marcus was taken back by her appearance, and let out a sudden, surprised cough after momentarily chocking on nothing but air. She only wore the bathrobe that Marcus kept in the bathroom, and it was generous with how much of Harle’s body was revealed. Little of her thighs were covered, and Marcus could see almost all of her smooth legs. The robe did cover her arms, but it hugged her tightly and hinted about the curves of her figure.

In addition, Harle’s hair fell loosely to her neck with water droplets still clinging to the hazel strands. Her face and body were still damp, for she hadn’t had much time to dry off. However, Harle wasn’t wearing any make up or bright jester clothes. She was standing toward Marcus as she was without hiding behind anything, and Marcus really did appreciate the sight, despite how nervous it made him. When he recovered from his fit of coughs, he would keep diverting his eyes to the ground, making sure to keep his eyes from wandering out of respect for her as well as his own ridiculous awkwardness.

Harle’s face was scarlet, so Marcus knew that she felt just as he did. Was it possible that she was just as unfamiliar with this type of situation as “Wow Monsieur Marcus, did you make zis yourself? Marcus could only muster an articulate nod while averting his eyes. Her cheeks were flushed with the color of a rose. “I-it’s all I can really cook…” he murmured modestly, explaining that he wasn’t some master chef. After all, you can’t really call someone who knows how to summersault an acrobat. However, Marcus wore a sheepish grin in the face of the compliment. He was obviously pleased with Harle’s satisfaction.

Marcus ate across the table from Harle, though he wasn’t really too interested in the meal. He kept glancing up at Harle, who seemed to enjoy the food a lot more than he did. He was not by any means a chef, but he then could understand the satisfaction they feel when their food is enjoyed. If Marcus’s half-decent omelet tasted great to her, then he couldn’t help but wonder what type of food she had at Rukongai. Their lives were really polar opposites, yet still the two managed to have an instant chemistry between them that wasn’t limited by where they came from or who they’re affiliated with. At the core, they were just two people.

Now, Harle’s next actions really took Marcus off guard. It wasn’t because he was under the impression that they were taking it slow, but mostly because he wasn’t mentally prepared for the request she made. It came like a sucker punch to the brain, and he was far too baffled to respond. “Please… sleep.. wiz Harle.” Marcus had been in the middle of a small bite, and mushrooms and eggs became dislodged in his throat. He suddenly chocked on it as it blocked his lungs’ air access, but after a second or two of struggle, he was finally able to swallow the bite as well as his surprise.

“Um…” was the first sound that came out of his mouth. His gaze was glued to the remainder of his food, and his face had the tone color of a ripe tomato. He truly didn’t know how to respond, but one thing was for certain. He didn’t want to say no and let Harle down. But at the same time, he couldn’t agree just like that. Maybe he was wrong and confused, as well as unexperienced, but he didn’t think things went that way. Harle’s displace of skin was extremely alluring. That was undeniable. But for Marcus, it wasn’t as simple as a ‘yes.’ There was something holding him back.

And that something was fear. Fear that he was jumping into this way too fast. Fear that he might not have Harle forever. As much as he did want to say yes, he was just too scared to rush into this and somehow ruin it. What if he and Harle somehow had a serious argument that broke down their relationship? The thought was scary for him to face, but it was still a possibility. He had to look at every aspect and every potential outcome, just like he was in a fight or on a mission. And as sad as it was, that is what Marcus was best at.

Harle was too important to him, and there was no doubt that he truly loved her. However, he wouldn’t even be able to admit that love. He was too hesitant, too reluctant, and too fearful.

“H-harle…” he began quietly, in a hushed tone. Marcus almost had to force himself to meet her eyes, but when he did, he found that he couldn’t pull away from that sapphire gaze. “I-I really lo-… I really like you.” Yes, even confessing his love as beyond his ability. He was feeling really miserable with himself, and his stomach was sinking. “…but I don’t want to rush. I want to really get to know you first…” Marcus must have sounded like a complete arse, but what else was he supposed to say? ‘I’m too scared?’ Well, Harle was just as terrified but at least she was brave enough to face her fear. And Marcus had once against beaten himself and was left defeated.

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

OOC: Sorry for the short post, i'm not feeling well right now, but I am looking forward to the next post though *smile*


Appeared as though Marcus' intake was more than what he could have originally consume if he was choking on the sweet omelet he made. What more could the French woman to do but to rush over to his side to lightly tap his back side, in between his shoulder blades with an open palm. She didn't know whether to make heads of tails if the disruption came from what she had asked of him or if it was due to him actually eating fast. Well, both were highly possible since Marcus tended to more flustered around her. Or could it be that he was always like that? She didn't know to be honest. But his response did manage to clarify his view point, and to what he believed in.

“H-harle… “I-I really lo-… I really like you. …but I don’t want to rush. I want to really get to know you first…” For some reason she felt hurt. Not due to being rejected, not because of Marcus not accepting her, but to what Marcus was doing to himself. From time that they had spent together during this long night, Harle noticed the man's tendencies to belittle himself from time after time again. Did something happen to him that would have him continuously bring himself down? No, Harle will not that happen him. She would rather, "Monsieur Marcus, please... Harle.." She shook her head. It was no longer time to be hiding. She will give it all to him, "Kaijin... understands." it would come as a whisper as it she held the man from behind. Like any other would needed the support, Marcus, the one she cared for, who she loved, needed her. And what better way than to have a comforting hug, being caressed similar to that of a mother.

"Kaijin understands, and iz thankful for it. Kaijin zaid before zat Kaijin would protect Marcus.... I would protect you... from any zing." She couldn't have been more sincere with anyone else but him. How many times did she had to bear witness to those suffering and yearned for someone to hold them, to show them the love that they believed was to be lost long ago. Which was why the Shinigami sat in his lap, avoiding the sexuality in the situation, to hold him close herself. Her arms wrapped around his bare neck, strands of the hazel colored hair brushing against his cheeks as the two sets of eyes trained on the other.

There was nothing more than to share his pain, to rid him of it, and enter into the further depths of his life. "Marcus, you can use Kaijin. Kaijin will be your shield. It doze not matter fo what reazon, az long az Kaijin can be wiz you, Marcus. Zo please, use me." Their lips met once more as she held onto him with such embrace. Although it may not appear as such, the two were strengthening their spirits, for both were in conflict with their own past. Marcus provided the Lieutenant with the means to push herself past her limitations. Time was a necessity that any relation would surely need to grow and blossom into something beautiful. She could see it, despite the pain that may come in the future, and knowing that only made her clung onto Marcus ever more so.

"Kaijin iz not... well versed wiz men.. Kaijin iz. terrified wiz men, but, it iz because of you, Marcus, zat Kaijin... zat I am able to... um... do zis. But.... I still...umm..." She barely realized that her own grip on his shirt began to tighten, ... have problèmes." The fear did remain even to this moment, but the more she pushed herself forward, the less that the haunting voices and sensations began to fade away. Instead, that fear of making contact with a man was being replaced by his touch, by his voice, and the warmth that only he could provide. And Kaijin loved it.

"Zo, please Marcus...... Use me... Help me.... If not, zen.... Could Marcus sleep wiz Kaijin? Kaijin.. I do not want to sleep alone tonight."

[Marcus Cole]

Marcus was trembling just a little bit. His breathing was picking up and his heart rate was steadily rising. His cheeks were radiating warmth and the world around him seemed to slow down until it reached a timeless limbo. The clocks no longer ticked and stared back at him in their intense stillness. All Marcus could feel was Harle’s arms wrapping around him in a gentle embrace from behind. "Monsieur Marcus, please... Harle.. Kaijin... understands.” Marcus wanted to turn back and verify her words, but his doubt was quickly extinguished. He knew that she completely understood him.

So why was he still afraid? Marcus wasn’t just scared of the unfamiliar, for he had never felt such intimacy to another person. It was that very intimacy that made him hesitant. Harle wanted to be with him, and he felt just as strongly about her. His insecurities and internal fears held him back for unnecessary reasons, but Marcus couldn’t fight his demons alone. He needed Harle.

"Kaijin understands, and iz thankful for it. Kaijin zaid before zat Kaijin would protect Marcus.... I would protect you... from any zing." The man softly placed his arms around her as she seated herself on his lap. With the two lovers intertwined, Marcus felt in place. Everything seemed right in a way that he couldn’t understand, much less describe. If he tried, the only word he could derive from the feeling would be ‘warmth,’ warmth that emanated from Harle’s touch and his own heart. Warmth that accompanied the alluring light in her eyes.

"Marcus, you can use Kaijin. Kaijin will be your shield. It doze not matter fo what reazon, az long az Kaijin can be wiz you, Marcus. Zo please, use me.” She pressed her lips into his as soon as the words left her mouth, but after a few seconds of melting into the kiss, Marcus had to pull back as he shook his head. He would never be able to use Harle, not in any situation. He valued her far more than he did his own life. Marcus always found himself in situations of service, for he was an extremely loyal soul. He lived to protect those he loves.

“Harle…” he began, the whisper barely audible as his breath carried his words. “I will always protect you, no matter what the situation is. I…” There it was again. Marcus choked and his sentence lingered before dying into silence. He wanted to pull his eyes down in shame, but they were glued to Harle’s hazel gaze. He took comfort in her understanding, accepting, and loving expression, despite his weakness. ...love you.

"Kaijin iz not... well versed wiz men.. Kaijin iz. terrified wiz men, but, it iz because of you, Marcus, zat Kaijin... zat I am able to... um... do zis. But.... I still...umm... have problèmes." It was at that point that Marcus realized that Harle – Kaijin – is chained by the same shackles that restrict him. She feared men while he feared intimacy, yet they required the same key to set them free. If Harle was brave enough to seek it, then Marcus would have to find the courage to follow. "Zo, please Marcus...... Use me... Help me.... If not, zen.... Could Marcus sleep wiz Kaijin? Kaijin.. I do not want to sleep alone tonight."

Marcus decided that he couldn’t possibly say no to Harle when she needed him to help fight off her demons. He leaned forward into Harle, uniting their lips in a passionate kiss that had his mouth moving in rhythm to hers. His embrace tightened slightly as he held her closer to his chest so that there was no empty space separating them. That was the best way he could possibly say yes. That was the best way for him to tell her that he loved her.

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

There were no need for words. She found the man's actions proved to be more than what often others attempt to explain in sweet talk. All of those who tried to butter the Lieutenant up to use in their own way, but all were for personal gain. None ever stood out to search what lied beneath the mask she wore. For beneath a cheery passionate woman was a child who lingered in the dark. Lost and alone. But then, there was a light. Someone.. reaching out for her, someone who would accept her for who she was, and who was willing to help her. Although she was the aggressor at this time, there would be no other who would make Kaijin feel the way that does now.

She could see it in his eyes, the honesty that reflected in them. The same as her. Even standing alone with him there were no secrets, she stood bare in front of him. No masks, not title, no duty, just her. As he took her into his arms, and their lips touched, she would caress him gently in her own arms. Just as he had done before in the circus tent, he has shown his admiration to his beliefs and a side of himself that she doubted not many have seen before. Exactly as her. And from what Marcus has shown to the French woman, there was no doubt in her mind that she had found her Mister right.

Actions spoke louder than words, that was something the Shinigami held in her heart the entire time ever since her little encounter back home. Because of that, her fears of becoming close to a person were greatly amplified. The anxiety was nearly overwhelming at times. However, now was not the case. She lived in terror and loneliness that she would never be able to fulfill her parents wishes, that she would forever wander alone. All that has changed, and Marcus was pushing her toward her future. He didn't have to say that he loved her, his lips, his body movement said it all. Her gratitude to him couldn't be put into words, so she wept.

To re-insure the man, she spoke words that the Shinigami had not before, "I love you, Marcus." Both her spirit and heart found a peace that was believed that couldn't be found. Sure showed those doubts and fears festering within her. She can finally move on with her life, finally move forward. "Thank you, Marcus, for everything." she said clinging to him, taking in the aroma that was Marcus. A sweet scent and one only unique to him. Peeling back to look upon the man whom she was indebted to, who she loved with every fiber of her being, Kaijin could only smile with joy. "Zo, shall we partake of ze bed now Marcus?" chuckling with excitement but most of all tired.

She desired nothing more than to enjoy the time she had with the man, but no longer could her eyelids remain still. If the man did accept, she would be more than thrilled to follow and enjoy his company, eagerly waiting for him to join her. Of course, she would have to take it slowly, but soon he will find out a unique habit of hers. Causally removing the cloth that dried her wet body once under the covers, Kaijin awaited eagerly for Marcus to join her. Slowly hugging him while covering her eyes. What can she say really about it? Oh sorry, I can't sleep unless Im completely naked. She couldn't, um, well, she could at least provide some details as to why. Quite simply, "Mi family, didn't have much money to buy many clothes, zo, um.... I .. sleep like zis." She cuddled for warmth, clearly embarrassed of what the man might think.

"I.. never did zis befo, so, um.. can you keep me warm zis night?". There were no ill intentions behind her actions, nor sexual, merely wanting to keep warm was all she wanted, and of course, wanting to be close to Marcus. Why not? No clothing on is like going out into the rain with the proper equipment, so would be slightly cold despite her habit. His warmth would be all that she required before falling asleep, clinging onto Marcus while providing him with his personal space, unless he desired her to come closer. Either way, she was happy with it.