What's the Worst that Could Happen?

[Deleted]

"I'm not...entirely sure. I've seemed to always have trouble remembering things I don't give one hundred percent of my focus on...and even then I still forget those things. Faces I can remember easily, since everyone's face is something incredibly unique. Names though can be a challenge. I've even forgotten my own Zanpakutos name before...oh man Zeroshiki let me have it when I asked him to tell me his name again." Raygin chuckled; answering Hotarus question and also accidently letting something slip. It was obvious that Raygin was once a Shinigami, given his stated victory over Hokori...but now that would raise a question. Hotaru was at least basic in the ability to sense Energy, so if she so chose to sense the chuckling man in front of her she would notice something.

There was next to nothing there. It wasn't like he was suppressing his reiatsu and it was hidden. It was literally that there was just...an ember. He didn't even look strong, rather he looked like he hadn't done any sort of training in a long time. Raygin blinked when Asmokon began talking, his attention drawn to the Quincy as he spoke. Raygin was quiet, smiling as Asmokon explained what happened to his eye. But at the mention of the Vandenreich, for just a split second two things happened. Firstly, the corners of his mouth and left nostril twitched ever so slightly. At the direct mention of the Vandenreich it had happened. Second, the light in Raygins eyes just...turned off at the same time. It was a subtle reaction at the mention of that name, but everything returned to normal an instant later.

Asmokons final sentence though made Raygin blink. "I'm...sorry but what was that question again?" the hell did Asmokon even say? Raygin was legitimately lost in confusion. He hadn't understood Asmokons question what so ever. But now Raygin didn't have anything to say, simply waiting for one of the two to speak. But suddenly though they were no longer alone. Raygin noticed her only after she had sat down and had only the most obvious of mental reactions. Oh my god she's back... He wasn't too thrilled at Taihos return, but this time though it seemed she wasn't interested in him. Good. He wasn't interested in her.

Right now Raygin wanted to go home and go back to bed, but he was now stuck here sitting with these three strangers unable to leave. It would seem rude for him to just suddenly get up and leave. Or maybe he could just sneak away, get up for a real reason to get some breathing room. "Ray will be right back. He wants some jello." He calmly said in...a very odd way. But then again, this was Raygin. He was odd. Standing up he collected his plate and made his way back to the catering table, placing the dishes into the dirty container and collecting a new one. He was some distance from his original table, and sighed as he began to look at the deserts. Just going home was going to be tougher than he thought.

He had just planned to eat, say hi, and then leave. After all, there wasn't much else someone in his condition could do. But now he was stuck. It would be incredibly rude for him to just leave, and even though Ray was a miserable sack of crippled depression he wasn't rude. He was still the nice guy everyone knew him to be. He didn't want people knowing about his condition anyways. Just smile and wave, Ray, just smile and wave and people will leave. Looking at the green jello, he just sort of stared in its direction. He was in his own head right now, just enjoying the momentary alone time before he would be required to head back to the table, all the while trying to come up with some excuse to just leave.

SPOILER: Click to show

{OOC} Blah sleepy post is blah, sorry didn't have much to do this round

[Hotaru Kuchiki-Masurao]

Hotaru sat and she was a little surprised that her husband was actually going to reveal something about himself at this party. Especially if it was pertaining to his eye. He hadn't even told her about what happened that surrounded his eye patch. She knew that he had lost it while they were apart and she had seen behind the eye patch, knowing it was a fake eye, but she was insanely curious about how it happened. She was so happy that they were back together again that she didn't even bother to ask, not wanting to ruin the normalcy that they were able to make.

She watched him put his elbows on the table and knew that he was seriously going to talk about it. She left her hand on her husband's leg while he talked of how he lost it. It seemed that he had been surrounded by the Vandenreich and even though it was more than a dozen, he came out the winner. He just sacrificed his eye to do so. After he was done, she looked at him from the corner of her eyes and gripped on Asmoskon's leg hard, digging her fingernails in as deep as she could. She didn't like finding out about it this way.

She was definitely annoyed with him that he wouldn't tell her. But, she now knows, so it was a little bit better she guessed. Once she asked her question to Ray, Asmoskon immediately had something to say to her, using the pet name that he had given her to tell her not to talk about horrible experiences in battle. She glanced at him from the corners of her eyes again. How do they even know if it's combat related? It might be something he was born with. She didn't care, she still wanted to know. Besides, she never minded war stories.

She listened to Ray answer her question and it was very interesting. She thought it was very interesting when he forgot the name of his own Zanpaktou. She didn't even think that was actually possible, but she guessed it was if he did. How could someone honestly be this forgetful? The first thing that she thought of was some kind of brain disease. But then, she looked at Ray, while he was laughing and there was definitely something off about the man. Her energy sensory wasn't good, but it was still enough where she could read people's power.

With him, there was almost nothing. She didn't show the surprise on her face, but she was actually trying to concentrate on him, trying to block out everything else to concentrate on reading his energy. She barely felt it. She knew that he was once a shinigami, just from fighting Hokori. She assumed that he was no longer in the Gotei Thirteen, with an energy reading like this. She thought that maybe something happened to make his reiatsu this low. For him to be in a squad, it had to be stronger than this at some point.

When Ray asked her husband to repeat the question, she thought she felt a power that was familiar coming towards their table. She heard someone say her name and turned around. Taiho was there. Hotaru swore that the captain moved like a ghost, appearing and disappearing out of nowhere. She wanted to have speed like that, but she was pretty sure that that was never going to happen. When the captain sat, Hotaru quickly said, "Hello Taiho-taichou. How are you enjoying the party?" Then, Taiho spoke of her well-being, hoping her marriage was a happy one. "Thank you and I have Taiho-taichou, or should I say Taiho-sama? I hear that you are the new Head of your family and that congratulations are in order. Also, thank you, my marriage is a very happy one thank you for asking. How are you Taiho-sama?"

[Ajraka Kuchiki]

 
As it so happened that Ajraka's head turned in response to the woman's polite refusal of food, such that she was about to inform the woman that really she should try something, that given the manner in which her coat moved, she could not possibly be so hefty as to fill it out, so there was no reason to stifle her appetite. Of course, had she been a woman of lesser speed , be that her speed in body, which was more than twice the Captain's. Or Speed of mind, which was, in fact, almost twice that of the captain's, she might have turned only to see them already gone. However, as it so happened, she caught Taiho on her way out, and simply speaking, the instincts that she did so inhabit, her ability to both sense and understand shat she was seeing, as well as the fact that her mind simply processed her environment so much faster, she was able to keep her eyes tracked on the Captain, even as they moved through the crowd, indeed rather impressed with the movements. Had she not been able to focus her eye on the very start of their motions, she may very well have been unable to spot them. 

She smiled, pleased at the Captain's sleuth and general demeanor, her mind puzzling away as those around her slothed on. It was a shame the captain had, however silently, written her off as naught but an animal, given how hungry her mind was. But then, with how slow shinigami were, in the way they acted, moved, and thought, she was not at all surprised in the woman's haste. Given how long it took their minds to process information, she supposed they had to skip out a little on such thing. ooking around at the other guests, their drawn-out voices, the manner in which they spoke, acted, moved so ungracefully and stiffly. IT was almost impressive, the way that nobles managed a semblance of grace despite their taillessness. In much the same way a person might be impressed on how an individual with no legs manages to get around. OF course over her course fo study both in Hueco Mundo (with the wide variety of anatomies therein) and the soul society, she had concluded, in her infinite curiosities, that it was a matter of what they had to work with. So she lamented. 

However, that brief manner of crowd observance did supply her with a preview of the man making his way to the food table, bringing a pleased smile to her face as he approached and offered to him a light nod of her head, a brief tilt of her head confirming to herself that none of that luxuriously long hair had been undone from it's little bun. She could not wait until the party was over to release it. The pains of "nobling" herself up for the occassion. 

Of course there was something about the male that was even more....sluggish, more ungraceful about Ray. And as opposed to it simply being about being shinigami, she could almost tell that something had happened, that hyperactive brain, and her animal instincts kicked in and she had a feeling that he was somewhat injured, the same way that a pack would often gravitate and move away from a crippled or sickened member of their group. But of course there were no 'predators' here. Only guests: Predators wearing masks. The male was all but a free meal for these insulting, high-brow cretins that called themselves nobility. Instinctively, she made her way toward him, almost protectively as she briefly allowed her eyes to sweep, immediately locking, one by one, with those that had chosen to look in their direction and subtly infuse that gaze with a sleight ferocity that immediately caused them to look away before she then looked to the man, as he did so happen upon the desserts, and bow her head.

"A pleasure. You must be the Infamous Ray." She noted cheerfully. Oh how her Elder had pounced upon the opportunity to describe to her the exact qualities of the man that did so give himself a reputation with nobles. " You have a good idea going for the desserts. Some of the dinner is a bit iffy, you really should try the cake." She chuckled, although in the very beginning of that sentence, she had a very different tone as to the end, that very first 'You really should' was in a tone that did so imply a 'get some rest'. She very subtly, given their surroundings, give some consolation, and indeed hinting at her awareness of his strife. "although, I admit, I've not had the pleasure to be here before. If you would not mind, would it be possible to perhaps give me a tour? I'm sure your guests can survive some small deprivation of your company." Goodness how she hated having to talk like this. She really did hope he agreed to her request for a 'tour', a very subtle request for a reason to escape the party, even if for a little while only.

[Deleted]

Her rage was building. How dare he deny it!? How could he, after what she put him through?! Busy her ass! ”I cried for you! I shed tears over you!” She had thought he died. After Caeser, after the Vandenreich invasion, she had tried to find him but couldn’t. It hurt her. It hurt her so much that she was afraid her heart would burst. For days she could hardly concentrate, hardly think while she awaited news of Raygin.

And then she was made Head, and she never received the news. ”I always have time for you! Dammit, Ray …” her voice caught at his name, and she turned from him, manicured hands flying to her face. A Kawada does not cry. A Kawada is strong in the face of adversity. She already shed tears for Ray, she couldn’t again, she refused to!

And yet the tears still flowed, liquid crystals flowing over her hands. ”I thought- I mean, we had something, idiot … Why would you think-” She didn’t let herself continue, it was too painful, if she continued she would never stop crying. And then Raygin would comfort her, and she didn’t think her heart could handle that. She took several deep breaths to steady herself, then-

”Hello, my name is Hotaru Kuchiki.”

The voice came suddenly, unexpectedly, and Katrina gave an uncharacteristically high squeak at the surprise. She whirled around, sleeves dabbing at her eyes to hide the tears before she spun, her face a mask again. It was really a wonder how easy it was to hide her true feelings now, after so long as Head. Her make-up was unmarred despite her red eyes, and she was utterly thankful that she decided on the tear-proof mascara today.

”A pleasure to meet you, Hotaru, Masarao. I was just having a pleasant conversation with my cousin here about … events that transpired several weeks ago. I’m sure we can go in whenever we desire.” Her voice was smooth, high, and clipped, the perfect voice for the Head of the Kawada. Her face betrayed no emotion, no amount of undue distress. She still heard her father’s voice. ”A Kawada does not show weakness in emotion, my eagle.”

”And the Kasumi’oji head, as well. I’m honored.” She sounded surprised; perfectly surprised. Perfect everything. She made sure. The Kawada’s reputation was sullied, in many ways. Weakness in filth was not tolerated. And weakness in rudeness will be expunged. She curtsied to Taiho then, a curious smile on her face. ”But what brings here here? I had heard rumors that the new Head of the Kasumi’oji disliked the company of others.”

When the door opened, Katrina was the first to the doorstep, as befitted her rank and attendance to the party. She was unimpressed with the decorations, royal as they were. The Kawada manor was infinitely richer decorated, and they didn’t flaunt it. It was tasteful and elegant, without the exuberance that tended to happen to those unsuited to money. Katrina could not help the slight sneer that crossed her face at the sight of the surroundings.

The next couple of hours passed in a haze for the young Kawada. Somehow, she had been separated from her erstwhile companions, and had ended up near the bar, where she had quickly taken a seat and ordered a water. She didn’t drink, she couldn’t; she never had before, and she didn’t know how it would affect her. Already, she had seen three couples thrown out by the rather-frightening Shihoin family for disturbing the party, and she had no wish to be hefted in such a way.

Just then, a part in the crowd allowed her an uninterrupted view of Raygin, talking to the tall, attractive Head of the Kasumi’oji. Like a snake uncoiling from the grass, anger and jealousy rose in her, both warring for her attention. It burned through her, coloring her cheeks and forcing her to grab her hand to steady the shaking. Her eyes were wide, nostrils flared. ’That … that tramp!’ She wanted nothing more than to go over there, tackle that skank, tear her hair out and-

”Bartender!” Her voice came out louder than she expected, and she cleared her voice to try again. ”Bartender, bring me a … a fruity drink. I feel like drinking today.” With a nod, said bartender began to mix and stir, and Katrina watched with curiosity. She had never seen a drink mixed before but, more importantly, it took her attention away from the man whom she feared she may be falling for.

The drink was good; dark and fruity, but with a definite alcoholic burn. Oy, cutie!” Odd. She had meant to call him bartender. Ah, well. ”Wha’ didja call this drink again? It’s very good!” She giggled, and the bartender looked pleased with himself. ”A margarita, miss Kawada.” Katrina found this highly funny, and she giggled into her hand, large blue eyes peering up at the rugged man with an unmistakable drunken look.

Then Raygin again caught her eye, and this made her happy. Which was odd, considering how mad she was at him. What was she mad about again … oh, right! ”Rayray!” She called to him, stumbling in her heels and spilling his drink. This was a different Katrina than he would ever have known. She had a look on her face that was equal parts predatory and flirtatious, and she walked with an unmistakable shake to her hips that no straight man could ignore.

She was at him, then, and the fruity smell wafted from her, faintly, like perfume. She hadn’t drunk much, but alas, she was a lightweight. ”Oh, Rayray …” She pressed herself against him then, a finger running down his chest. Whatever she had been about to say died in her drink-addled mind, halted by his scent and his warmth. ”Mmmm … you smell good, rayray …” Talking was getting harder now, but she didn’t care. She let the words slip anyway, despite how she slipped over then like they were ice.

”Rayray, you owe me a dance! I am your date, right?!” She giggled then, her small, warm hand slipping into his as she led him onto the dance floor. ”And you can’t leave your date waiting, it’s ru- OOPS.” She tripped, then, falling against his chest. But she didn’t want to move; he felt too good, far too good. She found herself trailing her face down his chest, her small frame moving against him. She was very drunk.

[✠Asmoskon Masurao✠]

Asmoskon simply sat there as Ray explained everything to Hotaru while showing no interest in the conversation. The point that he was rather bored now was reinforced by the fact that when Ray apparently hadn't just lost his ability to recall events, but understand the pretty obvious statements that weren't simply in his face. Asmoskon simply let out a sigh of disappointment at how this party was turning out. There didn't seem to be anyone here that peaked his interest at least not at the moment.

That was when he noticed the arrival of that captain once again. Her approach was one that he had difficulty even noticing and he knew that if the time ever came she would be one of the rather difficult Shinigami to deal with. Asmoskon didn't actively wish to fight any of the Shinigami in any way other then to test himself and the allies of his wife however the thought of fighting against some of them did peak his interest and cause excitement. So as Taiho sat down at the table and began to next conversation Asmoskon met her gaze for a moment and then turned around scanning the area once again.

While Hotaru spoke with Taiho Asmoskon's left eyebrow rose slightly as hi sight caught something that was rather a surprise something that he hadn't expected to be a such a place. Asmoskon moved backwards and stood from the table facing off towards where they had come in. "Hotaru I'll be back here in a few minutes." Asmoskon then began to walk off towards where the majority of he other nobles were standing around speaking to one another. It was a matter of moments and he would be lost in the sea of limbs.

Asmoskon had seen the set up of some of the servants. He saw something that he would have never expected to be in the Soul Society yet it made some sense due to him being in a noble manner. Asmoskon walked over to the servants that were setting up the instruments getting ready to start playing a soft melody to be heard in the background. "If you don't mind I would like to participate in the music. Allow me to open up for you." Asmoskon in truth had only stated this in a respect way and then went ahold and grabbed ahold of the musical case that had taken his attention.

Sitting down on a chain Asmoskon opened up the case seeing that the instrument inside was the very same bread as that of what his mother had taught him to play when he was young. Grabbing ahold of the cello Asmoskon pulled it from the case and held it in front of him getting into position. It had been at least two years since he had played so he planned on starting off with something rather simple in case he was off his game. The sound of the music would then suddenly move across the party as the Shinigami heard the sounds of a Quincy playing a soft bleak story with the body of an instrument.

SPOILER: Click to show

[Deleted]

Was he even paying attention to what he was looking at? He couldn't be sure. He wasn't even sure if he was paying attention to his own thoughts. His moment of peace was all he wanted as he tried to figure out some way of just...leaving. Hotaru and Asmokon seemed to be nice people, but Taiho and Katrina had given him enough reason to leave. In all honesty, he didn't want to return to the table so long as Taiho remained there. Her words earlier had unnerved him and caused him to become even more emotional unstable. He just wanted to go home. He should have known this was a mistake. His eyes were glazed over as he seemed to just stare at the desserts. Though, a sudden voice caused him to literally jump in surprise.

Turning his head to the source, he had a surprised look on his face as he locked eyes with the female animal. He blinked once, not really sure what to say at the sudden mention of his name. "...infamous? Ray? Infamous..?" was really the only thing he managed to say at first before two and two were coming together. She was talking to him! He had been so lost in his own head that he failed to realize it was him she was talking to! But infamous? Raygin was infamous? Her words came before his, claiming it was a good idea for him to come to the desserts. But, something about what she said at the end was different. The tone was different that the rest of her words. In fact, if Raygin was smart he would almost say it sounded like concern.

He blinked, still not one hundred percent sure what it was he needed to say. Which was...odd. Normally Raygin would just blurt out something rand-"Aye" oh there it was. Aye. His go to "I'm not sure what to say so let me say something random" word. Ah well, it was better than a lot of other things he could say. It was better than "cocks" oh man was it better. Raygin could still feel the stares. "It's...not all bad. I found the fish and bird to be rather tasty. Could have been spicier if you asked me" He managed to get out, chuckling slightly before the woman asked him her question. A tour? A tour of a place he had never been to? Raygin was...curious. Why would she ask him a questi-oh...oh.

It took him a moment, but Raygin realized it. She was trying to give him an out. That HAD been concern in her voice earlier. Somehow this animalistic Shinigami could tell that Ray wasn't having a good time, and was offering him a chance to escape from everyone. This was his best chance. He could leave the main room with her, then just leave. But...that would be rude. It was obvious she wanted to leave as well, so it would be rude to simply leave without saying a few words. She seemed much kinder, softer, than Taiho did...and god knows Raygin wanted to get away from her.

And so his confused face changed. The tips of his lips pulled back into a soft, warm smile. It was like Ajraka was looking into the sun itself. "Sure, I don't mind showing you ar-""Rayray!" Raygin jumped. Ajraka would see that warm smile of Raygins suddenly vanish and become immediately replaced with cold fear. It seemed as if he was literally going to lift off the ground with that jump. Fear was in his eyes as he slowly turned around, nervously chuckling before replying with a "K-Katri-" he was interrupted when the woman who had so viciously shouted at him suddenly pressed herself into his body. The heckle was going on here?? The young man felt his face grow warm, his breathing becoming sharp and short. He wasn't good with this! This wasn't good for him!

His body language was one of discomfort, in fact it seemed like he would suddenly try to pull away from her. "K-Katrina??" Raygin asked as he watched her twirl her finger down his chest and comment on him smelling good. Wait. Speaking of smells what was it Raygin smelled? It smelled...fruity? Wait, had she been drinking?? "A-Are you drunk??" He asked her, pulling against her as she tried to pull him to the dance floor. Even in his weakened state he could still, at least, resist being pulled around by someone of her size."L-Listen, Katrina, you n-need to c-calm down alright...please.." He said, catching her as she tripped into him. His hands found themselves on her shoulders to hold her steady. He blinked in surprise, seeing her dig her head into his chest. Directly...on top...of his scar. If Ajraka saw his face, or even if Katrina looked at him, it was detailed with freight.

But not at the woman on him. Rather, it was at what this situation could spell. Raygin was freaking out with confusion. He wasn't sure how to deal with this situation. And, freaking out meant an accelerated heart beat. And an accelerated heart meant Raygin was susceptible to having one of his episodes. And if he were to have an episode here...it wouldn't be good. But, then it got worse. Oh god did it get worse. Raygin heard them. He heard the gasps, the whispers, the giggles. The other nobles were watching, seeing the drunken head of the Kawada embarrass herself by throwing herself into the arms of trash like Raygin. [smear:661133]"Do you see that? How drunk can she be? Poor girl, being made the Head at such a young age...barely even able to control herself. Who's that she's on? Oh my...is that who I think it is?"[/smear:6600EE] No! Raygin wasn't going to listen to this.

It wasn't his own public image he cared about. Rather, he couldn't let Katrinas image be destroyed because of this. He was beginning to panic, unsure of what it was he was going to do. But suddenly a voice. The same one he had heard earlier. The otter like Shinigami from before gave Raygin a suggestion. Amber eyes stared into her, unable to express any words. He turned from her, quickly asking a nearby servant if there was anywhere he could take Katrina to lie her down. He was quickly informed that through a nearby set of doors there was a lounge with some sofas she could be laid down on. Thanking her, Raygin began to try and lead Katrina to the doors...but he was having difficulties. It seemed the other Kawada would rather attach herself to Raygin, snuggling up into him and struggling against his attempts to get her to move. Oh boy..

[Ajraka Kuchiki]

Ajraka stared for a moment, a smile spreading across her features in response to Ray's sudden shift wwin mood. Itw asw actually quite magical the way she had cheered him, up and for a moment, she was able to bask in the warmth of his little smile, even if he was a bit slow on the uptake. However as luck would have it, it was but a fleeting enjoyment, soon ruined by a piss-drunk little girl who stumbled over and immediately started to show signs of wanting her company's dick. Staring for a moment, she briefly wondered if she should simply dislocate the little cretin's shoulders, a brief look passing through her eyes. 

It was not a dark one, it was simply a ....light bemusement. A casual curiosity as to what she would do to this woman if they were, say, in an alley, or if they were tied up. She had found a very fant glimmer of enjoyment at this party, which had now been ruined and raped by the woman's deplorable etiquette. Calmly, she reached out to put her arms around the both of them, and with a soft nod and a murmured thanks to the help so as not to draw attention, she then used shunpo. Of course, with her incredible speed, even the Captain Taiho would have absolutely no sense of her motion. With her rapid speed brinking on god-like (7500), she more than evaded any party guest's casual glance, to them, the trio had quite simply vanished. 

Now within the pre-indicated room, she would promptly, take hold of both parties, separating them from one another and holding them both close  as she settled the three of them down onto the couch, or would so attempt. Her strength, unlike Ray's, was actually quite exemplary, more than enough to subdue someone many times Katrina's size, an arm around both of their shoulders as she sat down, curling her tail over her lap as she sighed, that tail then winding around Katrina like a boa constrictor, ensuring that the woman would be safe from falling over and smashing her head as that free arm would then reach up and remove the tie from her hair, letting it fall and, subsequently, allowing the beastmember to relax. 


"Now that all that is out of the way." She sighed, looking from the rather flirtatious drunkard to the very scared young man, she would fold her legs, keeping her grip, gentle but firm, on the both of them as she would give a gentle rolling of her shoulders. "While I am not entirely certain of your relationship. I have noticed a certain level of terror from this lovely young man. So please, I would very much like an explanation if possible?  Also you milady, should try to calm down." she stated in a soft, warm tone, her maternal instincts kicking her in the teeth.

[Taihō Kasumi’Oji]

"Thank you and I have Taiho-taichou, or should I say Taihō-sama? I hear that you are the new Head of your family and that congratulations are in order. Also, thank you, my marriage is a very happy one thank you for asking."

Taihō felt a small, but sincere, smile creep onto her face, the tip of an iceberg shrouded by layers of emotion deadening psychosis. She was genuinely pleased to hear that Hotaru was doing well, but all that made it through was a small smile, which Hotaru couldn’t even see due to Taihō’s high coat collar. Oh well. Taihō nodded slightly in acknowledgment of Hotaru’s congratulations, then paused as Hotaru asked her a question she had not at all expected.

“How are you Taiho-sama?"

In all honesty, Taihō was somewhat taken aback by this question. Very few people where honestly interested in how Taihō was faring, and she was almost never asked this question. As such, she wasn’t quite sure how to answer, and took a moment pondering the correct response. Of course, it didn’t take long for her decide on the proper course of action.

”I am quite well, thank you. I am adjusting well to being made the head of my family. I even have time to pursue my hobbies” This was, of course, a lie. Taihō was anything but well, finding it increasingly difficult to manage her family, her Squad and a vast criminal empire at the same time. However, Taihō wasn’t about to let this slip, especially not to a Kuchiki. So, she spoke a lie, casually, the same way any normal person would exhale. It was easy for her.

After that response, Taihō took her turn making inquiries, asking Hotaru, ”Earlier, you expressed interest in a rematch with me. I wouldn’t have thought you would want to spar with me again, after the condition I left you in last time” She spoke in a cool tone, with just the barest hint of concern lacing her voice, as she continued, ”Are you sure you want to repeat that experience?”

As she spoke, both Raygin and Asmoskon stood up and left, Asmoskon to play the cello of all things, and Raygin to…stare at jello. This left Taihō alone with Hotaru, the only person she had actually been glad to see all day. She had once considered the Kuchiki for her Vice-Captain, and while that plan had not materialized, Taihō was still very much interested in Hotaru, especially after Azumi told her exactly how she had become a full-blooded Kuchiki. She wasn’t much interested in brutalizing fighting Hotaru again, but it would provide an avenue for Taihō to learn more about her, and so it was very much a possibility if that’s what Hotaru really wanted.

However, before Hotaru could respond, another ripple of commotion rolled through the crowd, attracting Taihō’s attention. Just like a pool of water, the rippling buzz of excitement and confusion passing through a crowd invariably lead to the pebble that had spawned it, and Taihō found herself gazing at Katrina Kawada pressing herself hungrily into Raygin. It didn’t take a scientific genius to determine that the young Head was drunk; the slur in her voice, the radicle change in demeanor from when they had spoken briefly earlier, and the slight flush in her face all indicated that she was intoxicated. This was to perfect; even Taihō could recognize political gold when it was handed to her.

”Drunkenness…It truly is an unfortunate trait, is it not?” She commented almost casually, in a voice as cold and dark the deepest ocean depths. Those nobles near-by nodded in agreement, and though she spoke softly, her voice carried a resonance that could easily be heard over the suddenly silent crowd. Her expression was unmoved, and she turned away from the scene almost as soon as she had finished speaking, turning back to Hotaru as if to continue the conversation. All she said, however, was ”Shazam”, in a humorously dry tone, just loud enough for Hotaru to hear. Katrina had just humiliated herself, and her family, but Taihō’s casual remark had driven the final nail in the coffin. Even the Kasumi’Ojis could mock the once proud Kawada family. It would be months before Katrina could put this incident behind her, if not longer. In Taihō’s mind, that one event made the entire party worthwhile. Why, she was almost smiling as she waited for Hotaru’s response to her question. Almost. Not quite.

[Deleted]

Wait hold on what was going on now? One second Raygin was trying to hold Katrina steady and move her into the lounge room and the next he felt something wrap around him and in the next instant he found himself in a new room. He immediately noticed the set of couches, chairs, and the barely knee high table in the center of them. But, before he could move he was suddenly plied away from Katrina and pulled down onto one of the couches. He blinked in surprise, putting two and two together as he worked together what had just happened. It must have been a Shunpo. That was the only explanation for the sudden high speed movement. It felt odd, not being the one using the technique, being a passenger this time around.

Raygin turned his head, blinking in surprise when he noticed whom it was that pulled him down onto the sofa. It was the otter from the other room; the same whom suggested Raygin take the inebriated Katrina away to lie her down. Now here they were, all sitting down. He appreciated the newly acquired quiet, away from the laughter and whispers of the other nobles. "Really...thank you.." Raygin commented, nodding his head and smiling at the otter. His eyes moved over to the other female on the couch, the one sat on the other side of this new woman. It seems she was trying to keep the two separated. Which...was actually a good thing. Raygins gaze softened, slowly turning into something akin to disappointment before he spoke again "Here, I'll get her some wa-" he stopped talking when he tried to get himself up, but realized he wasn't able to get out of the other womans grasp.

It seemed she didn't have any intention of letting him go. Raygin watched as the woman undid her hair, letting brown locks fall down over her head. The young man watched quietly as she also began to talk. She wanted to know about him and Katrinas relationship? What was there to even know? What sort of relationship did he even have with her? Thinking out it...it was a odd thing. They hadn't met on the best of terms actually. Ray remembered, sorta, how he had been an annoying brat to Katrina when they first met. He had driven her to cry tears of anger during their training. The second time wasn't so bad, probably because of Raygins drastic personality change after his injury.

He remembered a night at a no-name restaurant ending with a night spent out on the town. Sure, they saw each other some times after that but it had only been crossing each other in the halls. Raygin, having succumbed to his misery, had locked himself away from the world so he wouldn't be a bother. Katrinas anger against him had been justified, although it still hurt. "Please, forgive her. You may already know, but she's the newest Head of the Kawada Family. Our former Head vanished recently, so everything he had was now dropped onto her. The job is stressful, so she can be incredibly short with everyone." Raygin explained to the otter, since the inebriated Head probably couldn't speak for herself.

"She and I are...friends-" why did it feel...weird...to say that "-but the stress gets to her and she's prone to harrass the other members of the family. I take it she decided to have some drink to help relieve some of the stress...but I guess she had a little too much." Ray chuckled at that last part, albeit a slightly embarrassed chuckle. He hadn't told her the entire truth. He refrained from explaining how there had been something between the two, and that Katrina might have still felt something for Raygin. Wait, still felt? Why was it that Raygin felt like he didn't feel anything for Katrina? Or maybe it was that the way he felt was different. Something like Katrina wanted just...wasn't something Raygin could give right now. Plus...the way he was...he couldn't really handle the way Katrina treated him.

He smiled at Ajraka, though the one he gave her was different from the radiating smile of warmth and kindness he had given her before, instead it was a rather pleading one. One way or another...he needed to protect Katrinas appearance. Though...it was no doubt damaged considerably at this point. "I hope she didn't offend you, and that you can forgive her behavior Miss..." Raygin blinked, realizing that he had never "...crap...i'm sorry. You know mine but I don't know yours, ara. My names Raygin...as you know...but what's your name? I can't just call you miss...unless you want me to just call you mi-I'm rambling again.." For a split second, that veil of "Honor the Family" slipped away and the real Raygin came out. The Raygin buried deep beneath the depression and despair. The one that loved to talk and make friends.

[Ajraka Kuchiki]

She was...surprised. That he was so apologetic. Even in a family as low statured as the Kawada, even in her presence, someone most considered to be the Kuchiki pet. He was apologetic. He was humble, and it was not even his own self that he cared for. But the reputation of the young woman who he was terrified from. She looked to the girl wound in her tail, and then to him, slowly releasing him as she felt a smidgeon of admiration, and indeed protectiveness. It was perhaps not the violent sexual jealousy that a certain head had, but she felt that this boy was better than all of the nobles in the other room. 

All the lying-through-their-teeth coat-tail riders. The gossiping hens looking to peck eachother's eyes out. The snide overbearing elders looking to groom and pluck their youth in hopes of producing some higher future for their clan. She loved her father, she loved that he took her in, and gave her so much. But the hellish place that was the table of nobles was one rife with trolls and goblins wearing crowns. And yet, here was a boy with no finery or pride, a prince among the warts. 

"I assure you. I've....become well familiarized with the effects of the drink. Before....I was brought to these....parties....manors....finery. I was a little thief, filching shiny objects from the rukongai nobles. Eating koi from ponds. I've.....come quit the long way." she chuckled softly, shaking her head as she patted both of the Kawada on the shoulder. Her eyes drifting closed as she imagined the things she had come to learn. She'd all but been groomed herself. Reaching up to run her fingers through that long hair of hers. 

"I cannot undo what Miss Kawada has displayed. But well... I only wish that Nobles cared more about the duties they so swear by than ....who gets drunk at a party." She murmured softly, eyes shutting as she leaned back in an attempt to relax, allowing Katrina to move, though that tail would be prepared to constrict the woman if she seemed ready to hurt Ray. She was not so concerned about the repercussions of dislocating a few bones if it meant protecting someone weaker than her. 

[Deleted]

Raygin was quiet as she spoke, sitting forward ever so much once she had released him. Amber colored eyes watched her, drinking in her words. He was interested in what she had to say, truly he was. Sure, he had been interested in what Hotaru had been saying before but...he had wanted to leave. For some reason or another, Ray was comfortable. Maybe it was because he was away from all those people, but he felt he could relax now. "Sometimes you get the feeling the higher class thinks that something's are more important than they really are. Thanks again, though, for your help." He commented upon the conclusion of her speaking. He smiled, sitting back on the sofa and sighing softly. He truly was appreciative for her help. But, at the same time, he couldn't help but feel a little...embarrassed. He hadn't been able to do a single thing himself.

Raygin blinked upon realizing something. He raised his hand up as he turned his head towards his new acquaintance. Suddenly his finger was jabbed, gently, into her cheek. "Hey. You didn't tell me your name. It's not really fair that you have me at such a disadvantage." Ray chuckled, moving his thumb away as he sat back up. He smiled up at her, those amber eyes of his bright and full of happiness. His smile was massive as he looked at her. "You did mention something earlier though. How is someone like me infamous? I'm not quite sure what I cou---it's the socks thing isn't it?"

Ever since that prank. Ever since Raygin snuck into the Kuchiki Manor and filled their socks with pudding none of the Kuchiki ever let him live it down. Whenever Raygin entered the Kuchiki Manor for social events, there was always someone watching him. It was like they didn't trust him or something. "So miss. You know about me and I don't know a single thing about you. Could you tell me more about yourself? What squad do you belong to?" Raygin asked, assuming that the woman he sat beside was actually a Shinigami. He didn't really have any reason to not assume it anyways. It wasn't like Raygin even knew about the Beast Clansmen.

Unbeknownst to the three though, there were some people in attendance to the party that did not take well to Katrinas display. Many laughed, sneered, and whispered...but there were three whom had a completely opposite reaction. Standing by the catering table, one of the guests stood there staring at the doorway that Ajraka had taken the two spirits through. In his quivering hands was a glass of drink, trembling from the force of his grip. A head with dark gray hair had a face painted with rage upon it. A vein bulged beneath his forehead. "Cannot...I cannot believe this. That...she didn't...how could she.." He growled, biting his lower lip to try and contain himself.

The woman beside him looked concern at her partners fury, looking up to him with worry painted on her face. "Hiro...calm down...please." She pleaded, reaching up and placing a soft hand upon her partners shoulder. She gasped in surprise when he suddenly slapped her hand away. "No! How can I! After that...display? She is the HEAD of our family and yet she...she goes and gets inebriated and does THAT? How much disrespect are we going to take until we do something!" Hiro snapped back, controlling his voice so the other guests didn't hear. He turned, snapping at another member of the Kawada Branch Family. The man was larger than Hiro, nodding and heading towards him. "How dare she. How dare that...whore be made the Head. Shade-samas lineage...the Honor of the Kawada...cannot be left in the hands of that tramp! Come on Choji, we're going to have a talk with Katrina Kawada." And so the two headed towards the door leading to the lounge where Raygin and Ajraka rested with the drunken Katrina.

[Francis Grin]

When Raygin mentioned the word "socks," someone would roll out from under the couch. It was a short lithe woman, one who was wearing the traditional garb of the Onmitsukido. She had mauve hair tied into a tight bun on the back of her head, and the darker skin-tone associated with the Shihoin family. If the people within the room knew anything about the nobility, or had attended other parties hosted by the upper crust of the Soul Society, they would be able to recognize her as Emiko Shihoin.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Emiko Shihoin}

"Ah, I remember the pudding sock incident!" Emiko would say as she quickly rose to her feet, a wide grin on her face. She would let off a surprisingly girlish giggle. "I think Ana actually still had some in her socks when she walked out of the manor. Way I heard it, took her a few blocks to realize that something wasn't right.

"But anyways," she said, hardly taking in a breath. Indeed, her speech seemed to be speeding up if anything. "You're really selling yourself short, Raygin! I mean, let's face it, you do have one of the better combat records in the Soul Society. One of three people to tangle with the Septima without any wounds, one of two to actually stop her dead in her tracks for a plan. Victories against Fullbringers, Arrancar, even Hokori! Though admittedly that last one isn't as impressive, considering that I think on of my guards could beat Hokori. Actually, you might know of him. He's the Vice-Captain in the Eleventh Squad, used to be part of the Onmitsukido Punishment Division? Really nice guy. Unique personality too!" ... Wait, where those hearts and sparkles appearing in the air behind her? Seriously, she must have had a crush on the guy.

[Ajraka Kuchiki]

Ajraka smirked softly as that thumb pushed into her jaw slightly, an amused look on her face as he so pried for the answer to his question. She chuckled, having admittedly forgotten about the query. As he went on about how she knew him, she had been about to reply when a particularly attractive shinigami rolled on out from under the couch, a look of surprise on the woman's face before she smiled up at the woman, eyes giving them an up-and-down, drinking in this unfamiliar uniform. Well that was a new iteration, one she actually found some interest in as well! She took several moments to take it in before she spoke.

"Well you're pretty famous among the Kuchiki. Of course I'm sure this woman could tell you who I am. Ajraka Kuchiki. Recent adoptee into the Kuchiki family." She stated calmly, casually as she lightly brushed that hair of hers over her shoulder. Though that smile curved into a grin, leaning in toward Ray to give him a playful elbow to the side for a moment, though she could all but smell the fangirling coming off Emiko over her guard. "I must say though. I was unaware that you had such a prestigious history of conquest~ Espada are pretty dangerous, and here you stopped one. You're more impressive than you let on." She crooned, not quite successful in keeping the flirt out of her voice.

Her eyes then refocused on the Shihoin, that smile becoming far less sultry and more casual. "I have to say, you shinigami are pretty impressive. I wish I had more free time. I think being one would be wonderful fun. Well, if a squad would have someone like me." she chuckled. She was a bit...notorious. Prior to her adjustment to noble life, she had become a little infamous herself. the little incident in which she had snuck into Ana's room, stolen several items and then immobilized the woman was one of a few rumors floating around, the stealthy little otter did have a habit o f sticking her nose and having some sort of aura that caused items to go missing around her. 

Sadly well, with her obligations she doubted she had the time to pursue the carreer of a shinigami. Even so she did lean back, folding her legs as she openly admired the woman's uniform. "I admit I don't think I've seen that uniform." She mused, tapping her foot. There was no skin exposure, but she still liked it. It was different certainly. "There's a lot about shinigami I still don't understand." she murmured softly, lightly rubbing at her chin, trying to remember what sort of shinigami she'd encountered so far, her eyes then shifting back to ray, that sly aspect of her smile returning.

[Deleted]

Raygin let out a startled squeak when something suddenly emerged from beneath the couch the three were sitting on. Were the legends true? Was Raygin about to be attacked by the legendary super dust bunny? Oh no wait it was a woman. Wait. Why was a woman hiding beneath a couch? Raygin blinked in surprise, watching her rise up onto her feet and joyfully exclaim that she remembered hearing about Raygins pudding prank. The former Shinigami started chuckling, seeing that the newly arrived lady was someone rather...nice. He didn't know that little bit about Anastasia though, so he couldn't help but feel a bit bad about that. Anastasia Kuchiki had always been nice to him. A real nice gal, someone Raygin missed dearly. Wherever she was...Ray hoped she was happy.

But, the young man blinked once again when the praises began to fly. The young man's face seemed locked in a perpetual gaze of surprise. He blinked a few times as he listened to the darker skinned woman's compliments. Even the otter, who had introduced herself as Ajraka Kuchiki, a very pretty name actually, complimented the young man along with a nudge by her elbow. So, Raygin did what was natural. He blushed. His face became warm, especially his ears, and he lowered his head. He began scratching the back of his head, chuckling gently as he displayed his embarrassment. "Thank you.." he said softly, just loud enough for those two to hear him. "Thank you. I...I don't receive compliments very often...so thank you. I appreciate it...truly...both of you, thank you" Raygin raised his head, a bright smile coupled with a tomato red face.

It was true. Raygin rarely ever received praise when he was a Shinigami. Such things were nonexistent the way he was now. In fact, all Raygin ever got anymore was sympathy and glares. But, even though he enjoyed the compliments he needed to point something out. "I'm sorry, but I kind of wish people wouldn't think I just walked over Captain Hokori. It was an accident...not a glory filled battle." Raygin corrected, turning his gaze away from them as he continued to scratch the back of his head. He was too humble for his own good. But he did feel bad for the Kuchiki Captain. Everyone in Soul Society now mocked him for his crushing defeat at Raygins hands. But could it really have been called a fight? Hokori had just made a massive mistake on the first move and paid for it.

On top of that, Raygin did feel like correcting the new woman on his battle record. It was far from spotless, Raygin having suffered numerous losses during his time as a Shinigami. But, alas, things like that were long gone. "Miss, if you don't mind me asking-" Raygin raised his head up to Emiko. What was he going to ask? "-but why were you under the couch? Doesn't that seem a...strange place to be? Unless you like taking naps under furniture, which is fine if that's your thing!" Raygin didn't want to offend. He then blinked, having realized something she said earlier. "Vice Captain of...Squad Eleven...oh! You know Grin-san? Does that mean you're Kimiko-san?" Raygin asked with an excited voice. He was...very wrong.

It had actually been a very long time since Raygin last visited the halls of the Shihion. So long, in fact, that during his last visit he had still worn the robes of the Shinigami. But now, looking at him, Emiko would see that he was different. The Shinigami, Raygin Sakubara, was an outlandish extrovert. He was exciteable, crazy, and always causing some form of harmless chaos to make everyone laughing. But the man sitting before her, Raygin Kawada, was...he just wasn't the same. He was far more warm, humble, and apologetic. No doubt, though, Emiko knew why. Considering who it was she shared her bed with, the nosiest man in Soul Society, she most likely knew the cause of Raygins change. Raygin, himself, wouldn't have known if Grin knew about his condition. If she did know, perhaps it would be best if she kept it to herself. A respected silence between the two. After all, it was best if Raygin was reminded as little as possible of how short his life was going to be. Nobody knew how much longer he had, but most everybody who knew believed that this was going to be Raygins last year.

Ajraka had picked up on it herself earlier, albeit in a more instinctual and animalistic way. Raygin noticed her smiling at him, which he responded with by smiling at her himself. "Wait, Ajraka-san, you're not a Shinigami yourself? I'm sorry! I assumed you were since...you know...but yeah, I'd be happy to answer any questions you have regarding the job! I do have some...experience with the subject." He responded, happily, to Ajrakas statement. He would love to talk to her some more, and hopefully he would be able to figure out more about her as well. He then turned his attention back to Emiko."If you don't mind me asking, Miss, but where is Grin-san? I was hoping I could run into him after not visiting your family after so long. He always knows how to make me laugh, after all." Raygin chuckled, looking up at the Shihion with bright amber eyes. The four of them, though, had no idea about the three individuals approaching the door leading to the lounge.

[Deleted]

Katrina heard nothing of the whispers, of the sneering or laughs. Nor did she hear the muted muttering of her family, treasonous as they were. The drink pouring through her system wiped out any thought deeper than gratification, leaving in its wake a trail of bubbles that made every thought colored pink and bubbly. Her mind felt clouded, and fizzy, like a bottle of soda that was shaken too hard! She giggled aloud at the thought. 'My head is gonna POP!' She fell into a fit of giggles then, clutching her stomach in giddiness.

But then something - big, fuzzy, attached to a body - wrapped around her. "Oh my gosh! It's so fluffy!" She couldn't help but pet it, her petite hands running up and the slight fuzz that grew on the tail "Pretty kitty! Reow! She clawed at the air, mimicking a cat, and then punctuated the comment with a giggle. "Hehe! Fluffy kitty! You're a good- where we going, kitty?

She had been lifted and dragged into an empty room. "Aaaaw." She had liked the eyes on her. It made her feel warm inside, like she was wearing too few clothes. The thought made her giggle. 'I'm barely wearing anything already!' That much was certainly true. But she had more pressing matters on her mind. "Oh, Ray-kun." Her voice came out low and sultry, with just the right amount of breathlessness to induce the rise of basic instincts in men.

Then she ruined it be giggling.

"Did you hear that, Ray-kun?" She drew his name out, as if to taste it. "Hehe. I like the way your name sounds. It tickled my tongue." She smirked at him then, her perfect smile flashing at him. "Ray-kuuuuuun." She really did like the sound of his name, and she giggled. "Do you like the way I at your name, Ray. Gin. Kawada?"

She wanted to be free, but unfortunately, she was tied. Judging from the muscle of the tail, it would be far too hard to just escape! She needed a distraction! And she knew just the right one! Her right hand, fortunately, was free, and it was this hand that darted up to her hairline and extracted a senbon, a straight thin needle that is commonly enjoyed by assassin's. This needle, then, was jammed downwards at the same time that Katrina flashed, in the hopes that she would escape.

She came it of the flash not even two feet away, her arms encircling Rays chest. "Oh, Rayray ... I'm sorry ..." A huge yawn split her face, and her eyes closed. Within seconds, soft snores were coming from her. She had fallen asleep slumped against him, her legs tucked under her and her arms around his waist. Her face, unfortunately, was laying in the lap of his pants.