Reunion and Rehabilitation [PG-13, Joint-Training]

[Marcus Cole]

((OOC: Training for CTP ))

Beep…

Beep…

Beep…

It was dark, and that beeping was the only discernable sound that he could hear. The rest was a muffled hustle and handful of conversations, words, and sounds blended together. But the worst was the darkness. After taking a moment to gather the sliver of energy he had, he worked toward the light. His eyes struggled against gravity to flutter open. There were times when he could almost see the white breaking through his eyelids before they came crashing down. It felt like hours later, but eventually, he came through. His eyes opened and revealed a bright flash of white light that knocked him back to unconsciousness. It was the first time he had opened his eyes in more than six months.

---

Two Months Later

Marcus’s casts had been removed a couple of months before he first regained consciousness and ended his coma. There was nothing binding his legs. He had the opportunity to walk now. Though opportunity and ability are two different things. His legs were incredibly weak and fragile. If he tried walking immediately after his casts were taken off, he’d have tumbled and injured himself further. He needed to be careful, but he also needed to get out of the hospital. Kazura had updated him and informed him that everything was fine and the Uzaki Enterprise was sound. However, he couldn’t bare the fact that he was resting and recovering while everyone else was out there.

And worst of all, Harle hadn’t heard from him in months. Eight months, if what the nurses said was true. He needed to get a hold of her more than anything else at the moment. And so he trained his legs. When the doors were shut, windows were covered, and no one else was there, he began practicing by pushing his leg down on the bar at the foot of his bed. At first, he couldn’t even get his leg down there. However, by the end of the first day, he could reach the bar. From that point onward, he pushed with both legs with every second that he could without getting caught. The pain didn’t mean anything. With morphine pumping through his system and his own natural strength of will, his determination to get back home trumped any pain.

It took two months before Marcus could walk. Two months of physical therapy on top of his own training. Usually, physical therapy had faster progress, but Marcus’s body had been obliterated. His bones were still rejoining in some cases. It was considered a miracle that he could walk again at all in the eyes of the doctors. They kept telling him that he would be in a wheelchair for the rest of his life. He just stared back blankly without any acknowledgement of their prediction. He didn’t accept it.

He didn’t even entertain the thought, because the second he did, he would have found a way to end his life as quickly as possible. No more Uzaki Enterprise missions. No more soaring through the Karakura night sky. No more protecting Kazura. No more value. No more swinging on the trapeze with Harle. No more carrying her in his arms. It would all be over for him. Marcus didn’t ever let it get to that point. He kept working, and the more he felt progress, the harder he pushed. Two months later, he was finally able to walk on his own.

That was the night he left. No doctor released him, for they predicted that he’d need at least another month before it was safe to send him out in a wheelchair. That’s how fragile his bones were. But Marcus didn’t care. He was stronger than they could ever imagine, and so he left at midnight, during a shift change. He was smart about it, too. Using his phone, he already contacted a taxi that was waiting for him at the hospital exit. When the floor was quiet, he pulled himself out of bed made his way to the elevator, which was fortunately nearby. Each step was very deliberate, and his foot slid along the floor. He needed to conserve his strength, and lifting his foot completely required too much energy.

Marcus could barely stand on his feet after the elevator dropped him off at the ground floor. The rack of wheelchairs were right by the elevator, and so he sat into one and began rolling himself. Even that strained his arms, but his face didn’t betray him as he rolled past security. He flashed them a nervous smile and continued onward with only a miniscule shaking of his arms. He found the taxi about fifteen feet away and used all his remaining strength to pull himself into the open door. “E-excuse me, sir. C-can you p-please put the wh-wheelch-chair in the b-back?” He rested on the cushioned seat with a shining smile lighting up his face. He was homebound.

With some help from the taxi driver, Marcus got back into the wheelchair and was pushed into the elevator that took him up. The kind taxi driver helped open the door, but Marcus took care of the rest after paying and tipping. He rolled over to his bedroom and pulled himself up onto the mattress, too tired to even try getting under the sheets. Every inche of his body ached, especially his arms and legs. His head was drenched with sweat and he was gasping for air at that point. However, nothing would stop him from reaching over to his nightstand to reach the black butterfly sitting their and bringing it close to his lips.

“Harle,” he whispered between breaths. “S-sorry. I’ve m-missed you. P-please come o-over as s-soon as you c-can.”

He released the butterfly and watched it flutter away as his eyelids dropped and he fell asleep.

(( OOC: I’ll post stats later when we timeskip to where Marcus is now, class 4 ))

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

OOC: Training For CTP, and will be used for a later to further apply to CIU.

IC:

Life in the Seireitei was ever constant. Whether it be leading the missions into enemy territory, filing papers and reports, or taming the criminal empire from the shadows with Tsunami, Harle has been ever vigilant. Day in and day out from morning to morning the Captain tended to her duties and responsibilities. On the side reports of her discoveries were being sent discreetly to the son of the Kuichiki Head, Souza. Even left to her solitude in the Captain's chambers she slowly fell into those weary slumbers. All in all she was beginning to morn for the days of old.

Fingers ran through the brown laces of hair to comb back the strands that were out of place. The notes and findings that were procured from their missions have been fruitful, but taking a hold of the French woman. More than not she looked out from her balcony to view the vast woods below that made up parts of the Squad's training grounds. How much that they resembled the tight ropes and beams that made up the innards of the Circus. She pondered ever so how she came to be at her current position. From entertainer to thief, then to solider.

If her makeup had not been on she would have forgotten who she was in the previous life. The mask that she wore wasn't the -real- her. Harle was only the guise that was created to secure, to protect who she was, who she is. Kaijin is Harle just as Harle was Kaijin. Only one individual truly knew who she was beneath the mask. Under the confident persona of the French girl who was terrified of her own shadow for a time, until that night in Karakura. That night at the Circus tent she met a man. A single living man by the name of Marcus. The man who rekindled the love she has for the people, and the light of who she was in the past.

The man who peeled back the mask that was Harle and saw her for who she was rather what she was. Marcus sided with Kazura Uzaki, who was seen as a enemy to Soul Society. A human with a firm belief that human's should fend for themselves rather than trusting in the services of the Shinigami. A strong stand which Harle herself found to believe in. Thus far the Shinigami have been riddled and stagnant in their duties. Signs of corruption have shown in their lands which in term will spread if not controlled. With the rumors of an individual named Douma running amok the souls of those who should have found rest and peace would be tormented. Especially Marcus when it was his time to pass on. She couldn't allow that to happen.

Thinking about him made the precious memories resurface before her very eyes. It had been months if not a year since their last meeting. She could only wonder how he was doing, if he was alright. Her eyes caught a glimpse into the night sky, a flicker of life. The senses keen on it. A Hell Butterfly. But in the middle of the night? Upon landing onto the ridge of her extended finger she knew it been the same one left behind for him, for Marcus. And with it a message that sent shivers down her spine, "Harle. S-sorry. I’ve m-missed you. P-please come o-over as s-soon as you c-can.” His voice was weak as well as the presence that Butterfly emitted. Something was wrong.

With haste, the clown of Squad 2 made an immediate departure for the world of the living. A notice left behind that declared her taking on a mission. She made haste with her original gear, the adjustments made to her clown uniform, and with her Captain's Haori about her. From the other side the Senkaimon gates peeled open for the Captain to make her entrance onto the new stage. She remembered of course, where the man took her. The home which the two lay to compose themselves, and to settle into their new relationship. Back then she was still a Lieutenant learning the ropes and her abilities, but now she came as a Captain with much more experience under her belt.

The stride to his home was nothing compared to before. Like a brush of wind her feet rest upon the small ridge that made up his balcony. Like a shadow she found herself within the confines of his home, their home. And there he lay. His body shriveled like a Prune and battered although healed. It been some time since their last meeting but his condition was far from fine. Those sapphire eyes trained on the man's weakened body as he slept quietly over the sheets. She didn't wish to weep at the sight of him. How long she wished to be at his side. To be able to remain with him every day of her life. But not only that for it was his injuries that made her weep. "Who could haz done zis to you." she spoke softly. "Marcus." she says for the first time in a long time in clear English. A name she desired to utter for so long as she felt the tears run down the white stain cheeks.

No more being alone. No more feeling as though she lost another part of herself. For now she would gather the tall glass of water and the warmth of steamed towel. However, she knew that alone wouldn't be enough to quell what befell Marcus. Her robes tuckered onto the cushion of a cornered chair. The chiming of the twin bells ceased to allow the silk like texture befall over her draped shoulder. Only a single kiss to the forehead of the man she loved so dearly before resting herself beside him. "Marcus, Harl.. I am here fo you."

[Marcus Cole]

Dreams are hard often to separate from reality, mostly because they mirror it in many ways. Up until a several of years ago, Marcus hadn’t been the type to have dreams at all. After that point on, he found his nights contaminated with nightmares. But things changed for the better. The nightmares were gone, and on that particular night, Marcus found himself swinging alone on a trapeze at the center of a giant circus tent. It was the size of a football stadium at least, and the stands were packed with so many faces that they just blended in together. With each flip, the crowd roared with pleasure. He leapt from swing to swing, performing as much for himself as he did for them.

Marcus once again released his hold on the swing to make the jump to the next, as he had done a million times. However, he came very short. The swing seemed impossibly far away and he wasn’t going to make it. His eyes darted around, and all of a sudden, the people were gone. He was alone and air ground didn’t seem to be an option. He couldn’t even maneuver himself as he fell, completely paralyzed. But as the ground continued to approach him at an alarming speed, two soft, swift hands grabbed onto his own from above. Their hold was warm and familiar. Marcus knew who had caught him, and he was about to look up to meet her gaze when…

“Marcus, Harle… I am here fo you.”

The man’s eyes fluttered open to find the beautiful woman lying across from him. She was just as he remembered her. Beautiful and angelic. He recognized those hazel strands of hair from his dreams. His gaze could see right through the white make-up that covered her face, and beyond that as well. Joy swelled up inside him when her lovely blue eyes met his own. Marcus did his best to smile for her, and it might have been the most genuine and convincing grin he had ever pulled off in his life.

“I m-missed you,” he told her. He somehow found the strength to raise his arm and gently place his hand on Harle’s cheek, caressing it softly with his thumb. She would surely notice his hand trembling, but that didn’t matter. His arms were never too tired to touch and hold Harle for the first time in far too long. “Y-you’re a c-captain now?” he asked excitedly. Marcus was familiar with the attire of Shinigami, having learned in his pre-Uzaki Enterprise days. The haori was very distinct. Most of all, he was impressed with Harle. She had continued to grow over the past eight months, while he… He would make up for the strength that left him and the time he lost that could have been spent with her.

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

“I m-missed you." He said. A voice.. words.. A presence that she longed for. Eight months that were spent separated away from him. And within that period of time the moments have lasted for what would have been an eternity for one who was able to live for so long. For Harle it was only a brief moment since time in the world of the dead did not surmount to the standard time in the world of the living. Eight months for her was like years, but, despite it all she was there with him. At long last she was finally able to be with him. The dark locks of hair. His subtle stuttering.. It was all the same like the time before when they first met. Since then all she could do was learn, fight, and grow.

A hand met with her covered natural blush of her cheek. That soothing warmth that she missed so dearly. She found herself overwhelmed within, but knew all too well that his current condition wouldn't be able to hold up against her series of affection. She held back. But nonetheless her expression reflected the internal turmoil that raged inside. Guilt; for not having been there when he needed help the most. Sorrow; watching him laying in bed covered in bandages and malnourished. Happy; for being in the presence of the one she loves. And anger; to those who would have left him in such a state. Either way she couldn't stop herself from nuzzling into the palm of his hand. He is the light that she sought out.

The Captain did notice the quivering of the hand. He must have been struggling to move let alone talk. The hand came to rest over his own torso in order to allow the woman begin her treatment. Damp towels were made prior when he was resting. A basin setup was made next to him before she went along to rest beside him. At the time the French did not know the extent of his injuries thus not wishing for him to move or further strain himself for the time being. So, she would take care of him as she should have been. More than not it was her duty, but not as a Shinigami, or a Captain. But, as a woman that loved him so.

His words fluttered into her ears as the small towel was lay to rest on his forehead. “Y-you’re a c-captain now?” Of course he would notice from sighting the Haori she wore. The white fabric that captured the eyes attention was a testament to the strength she wielded from her time of training. Captain Kenryoku's presence ceased after some time, which for reasons why she began her own investigation in the events. Aside from that, everything that she did, all the effort she put into her growth, it was all for him, for Marcus.

In the time when she was wandering around after her death she saw how life was. Each dozen years life came and went without stopping for no individual. Wars came, people lie, and eventually her home was engulfed by a world she no longer knew. She had no home. Even among those of Soul Society she felt as though she never truly belonged. Her sense of sense was slowly withering away in a killer. At least until Marcus arrived into her life. Harle, no, Kaijin came back. "Har.. Yes, I-I became un Capitaine. I.. trained a lot to.. become.. stronger.. For you." That was her new purpose when she came to meet him.

Her words stumbled while attempting to maintain the fluidity of her words to have them more understandable. Her world, the one that she resided in was slowly becoming like her previous one. she didn't want that. It would be a world which Marcus would come into one day. That was something she didn't want to happen. It may have not been to his knowledge but Harle relied on the man. She needed Marcus. His kitchen was the same as she last saw it. Practically covered in dust from the time he remained away. Her Haori removed and allowed to sheet over the Fullbringer. "I am nat un Shinigami at zis time. I am a woman now, Marcus."

"But, before zat Marcus. Pleaze tell me, who did zis to you?" she spoke kneeling over beside the bed clinging to his resting hand.

[Marcus Cole]

Marcus had a lot of time back when he was in the hospital. A lot of time for nothing but recovering, but that was his body’s duty. His mind was free to wander and think, and with all the time it had, it crafted fantasies. Some involved his return to Uzaki Enterprise. Others were simpler, such as soaring through the sky. The most popular, however, was a bit more precious to Marcus: his reunion with Harle. His attention was focused on the love of his life.

But each fantasy Marcus created varied drastically from the rest. One involved a healthy Marcus meeting an overjoyed Harle. In others, Harle was furious that he hadn’t contacted her in so long and rejected him completely. None of the scenarios, however, involved Harle asking Marcus about what happened to him. And he had no idea how to answer because he didn’t know himself. His memory had a gaping hole through it between his capture and his waking, and he didn’t have time to think about that now. He would investigate on his own later.

But Harle was his sole focus at the moment. As his mind was allured by sleep and his eyelids fought gravity, all he could do was smile at the girl sitting at his bed. “Let’s s-sleep a-again... like l-last t-time?” He was making an effort to ask her, but the man was just too tired at that point. It was so much easier for him to have some faith and close his eyes, hoping to feel the warmth of her body beside him while he drifted off to sleep.

---

Marcus woke up early, at about 3 a.m. His body felt well rested, but his muscles were still raw and barely existent. In fact, he could barely even push himself off of the bed. His hands pressed against the mattress, allowing him to roll off of the edge and land with a sudden thump. However, the man didn’t grunt in pain. He took the blow silently, fearful that Harle may be asleep on the other side of the bed.

But Marcus faced a new challenge. He had to get up. Just months earlier, he could have done a push-up with his pinkie fingers. Now, he was struggling to get up on his feet. No matter how hard his arms pushed, they kept shaking like an earthquake before collapsing completely. His muscles were gone, and he was stuck. He was depressed and disgusted with himself. After going from hero to zero, Marcus felt like a shell of a man.

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

There were some things that Harle never shook off from her previous self. First; the thrill of entertaining the people are her with her magic tricks and near flawless ability in acrobatics. Both demonstrated the amount of time she spent in mastering the two forms of being an Illusionist. The dream of hers being an equal to that of her late father, and to carry on the dream that her parents had. As such the Jester continued with her own personal training despite having many new responsibilities to care for. Aside from her duties as Squad Captain, she undertook the responsibilities of leading Tsunami against the enemies of Soul Society. Those duties were never ending, and yet, regardless of the amount of time sleep she was only able to muster up she never ceased her training as an Illusionist.

The second habit she never shook off was the obvious, and one that Marcus had been a victim to before. And, yet again even now. An entire lifetime spent as one of the peasants Harle retained much of her sleeping habits. While being able to sleep in comfortable bed with an endless supply of warm bed sheets, the one thing that the Squad Captain was unable to remove from her persona was the use of clothing while sleeping. In other words she was nudist during her sleeping hours. She was then, and still is now. Despite Marcus haven fallen asleep it didn't prevent the removal of her robes. One by one each layer was set to the side and folded neatly on the floor beside the bed. This was a reflection as to her time spent sleeping in the stables, caves, and rarely at Inns. At this time, however, she didn't see it as a better time to do so then the present.

Her questions can come at a later time since primarily they were personal to her as well as playing to her perspective as a Shinigami rather than a woman. So there was no need to ponder on such things since now was the time for Harle to remain at the side of the man she loves. If Harle had to describe the moment, then they would have been "absolute bliss." Nothing came close to the overwhelming sensation of happiness that came with the moment. After time and time again did the Shinigami spent her time as an assassin as much as a solider, never really taking the leisure to see herself as an average girl. Time spent on the battlefield in the wake of death of some many people and monsters did that to those who roam in the shadows. She knew too well that Marcus may have felt some form of familiarity to the feeling. All the more reason that this time was required for her.

In some ways Harle felt that a part of herself was losing to those shadows, and only leaving behind a monster. Marcus saved her from that. He is the light that she needed.

She didn't know how much time must have passed as the dark corners of the room sudden overwhelmed her sights, but regardless of the time it was only natural to have awaken after a loud thump was heard. Couldn't have been a coincidence since the part of the bed that was occupied by her lover was now empty. She thought as much when sitting up to see the man flat on his stomach on the floor. His body seemed to have taken a blow as he remained close to the surface. Both arms creaking ever so slowly with each attempt to rise from the comfort of the resting position. The Shinigami couldn't help but feel a rush of concern for her lover.

"Marcus... she spoke concerned. With quick shift on her rear did the woman find the floor when standing. Her eyes trained on the man as she waddled over him to better assess the situation. Just as before did her eyes view the man's physique in the lighting of the pale white moon through the veranda's door. Marcus had been struggling with the amount of strength he currently wielded and as such did he struggle to bring himself back up to his feet. What else should a worried partner do but assist in their attempts. With that Harle couldn't bear to watch but drape herself with the bed sheet and assist with his standing, if not at least seating him on the edge of the bed.

Marcus was in a frail state that he couldn't even help himself, this only brought a heavy weight onto her heart. "Harle iz zorry Marcus. She iz zorry zat you were left alone." In some ways Harle couldn't help but blame herself for what happened to the acrobat. If she had truly been his lover then she would've stayed with him. To be at his side to support him and help him remain strong. But now "Har.. I will stay wiz you Marcus. I will not leave you." The Shinigami said keeping the man close to her bosom. More so did her paintless features glow while basking in the light of the moon. The sheet draped over a single bare shoulder, similar to a Toga, was to glisten with her eyes solely on the man. Just as he filled her eyes.

If there were ever a time to be supportive it was now. Knowing Marcus he must have been nailing himself to a cross with his current condition. She only hoped that her small gesture of comfort would help subside those laughing in the shadows of his mind. "Marcus iz a strong monsieur. And I know zat." For Marcus to be able to come home despite his condition proved his strength. While others would have waited for their full recovery Marcus displayed a strength which only a few will ever come to gain in all of their lifetimes. Those words of the Shinigami were whispered in a way that only lovers would know of as she kept the man close to her.

Had been a while since the Shiningami could have been as gentle as she was now. The only other person she did show come compassion for was her Lieutenant, Kisala Shihoin. Although young and had much to learn the young Shihoin suffered from a lack of confidence. From her time leading others did the French woman learn that each individual in her Squad required a different approach in support. Some did force the woman to be forceful to teach them, and others required patience. But to her, both Kisala and Marcus were among those who she did care for in a different manner. Marcus, the man was above the rest. "Hey, she peered into the man's eyes "why don't we go back and play like zat night. Ze night zat we first met."

[Marcus Cole]

“Marcus…” The gentle voice, heavy with concern, broke Marcus’s concentration and effort. His stubborn arms gave way to defeat. He couldn’t get up. He wasn’t strong enough. Harle had been his motivation to develop his strength and combat technique even further, to be able to protect her, but now that she was actually by his side, he couldn’t even care for himself much less the two of them.

He felt her arm wrap around him as she pulled him off the floor and back onto the mattress. Marcus tried assisting her with the little force he had through his arms and legs, but that did little to relieve Harle of his weight. “Harle iz zorry, Marcus. She iz zorry zat you were left alone.” The man’s heart was being torn apart with each word, knowing that his weak and incapable state brought Harle pain. “Har… I will stay wiz you, Marcus. I will not leave you.”

Marcus found Harle’s hand with his own and squeezed in lightly in affection. With all of the aching darkness surrounding Marcus’s situation, Harle was the one ray of light in his life, and feeling the warmth of her body as she pressed his head against her chest in an intimate hug kept him from giving up. He was going to recover for her. “Marcus iz a strong monsieur. And I know zat.” The fullbringer disagreed silently. No, he thought, but I will be.

“Hey,” he heard her call, shifting his strong-willed eyes into her own alluring gaze. His face instantly softened as he felt himself melting into her, both physically and spiritually. The warmth of her body felt like his own, and her eyes seemed to hold a complete understanding of who Marcus was, an understanding he couldn’t reach on his own. “Why don’t we go back and play like zat night. Ze night zat we first met.” Marcus thought back to his first encounter with Harle. Both of them were alone, reflecting on a better past.

And despite the infancy of their relationship, Marcus and Harle clicked physically on the trapeze. They responded to each others’ movements, swinging and acting in sync. And Marcus could so easily catch Harle as she soared toward him, lifting her with little effort onto the trapeze beside him. He was strong back then, stronger than most could fathom. And now, he couldn’t even pick himself off the floor. He was weak, and he needed to become strong again.

“I… I’d l-like to go w-with you. Back t-to the circus grounds…” he told her in a whisper. He would have to take his wheel chair, and Harle would have to push him through the entire journey just to make it there. The man never had any use for a car because he was capable of running to most destinations around Karakura, and now, his own legs couldn’t carry him. But Marcus still wanted to get strong.

When they arrived at their first meeting place, Marcus looked above at the towering trapeze, reaching up toward it like a child trying to catch the stars in the night sky until his arms gave way to their own weight. He was already so tired, but he had to get stronger somehow. If he couldn’t train physically, there had to be an alternative. “Harle… I-I want to l-learn h-how to u-use my reiatsu and m-make it stronger. I-I can’t walk or m-move but I-I want to train. P-please teach me.”

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

Both of the two were in sync as they always have been. Just as she was thinking of that night, Marcus went about to acknowledge where their strength grew. Much more, as to where they began as a couple. The thought of them returning to the place where they began brought about a moment of flourishing memories. As a Shinigami it is her duty to insure the safety of the humans that reside in the world of the living. Yet, as a woman in love, there was no other duty greater than supporting her partner in his time of need. From what she remembers, they had not been able to go on an official date, so, she couldn't help but find herself joyful.

She couldn't help but to show it across her stained face. Furthermore, she didn't hint in refusing to acknowledge his request. The Shinigami Captain smiled as she reassured him with a nod, and pulling the wheelchair to their side. Only then would Marcus find himself resting in the confines of his mode of transportation. Little did she know, due to her own happiness, that he may have felt depressed from his own condition. Even when rolling him down the same path that Marcus used to bring her to his apartment, the time taken to venture back was slow. How long had it been since they were able spend such time together? The cool atmosphere around them did remind her of how Marcus carried her.

"Doez zhis remind you of zhat day?" she brought the obvious back up. The only thing about the situation was that she wasn't carrying the man. Despite the surmounted time that had passed she still wasn't able to carry the Fullbringer. He was still heavy to her. "I wish zat momentz like zhis could last forever." It didn't matter what they were nor the state of the world was in. Harle only acknowledged the moment that the two were currently sharing with one another. But she knew better, she wasn't completely ignorant as to what may have been happening on the other side of the world. This did include Soul Society. Yet, she only wanted to drown herself in the moments spent with Marcus.

From the smooth concrete flooring to the unsettling dirt path did the pair find themselves before the large man made canopy. Moments later were they sheltered by the same torn ceiling that the two peered up at months before. The exhilaration of returning the woman resurrected that old flame of performing in front of others once more. To fill their level of anticipation spewing with every motion that she made. Each flick of the finger meant to captivate the audience before having them erupt in applause once the trick was finished. Such places like this was what gave Harle strength, especially when they are shared among other people who are dear to her. Marcus knew of such sensations, for it was the same for him. As such, locations became a means of rekindling the spirit of the power it once had.

Marcus spoke once more, returning the woman back to their current situation, what they were there for. “Harle… I-I want to l-learn h-how to u-use my reiatsu and m-make it stronger. I-I can’t walk or m-move but I-I want to train. P-please teach me," was what he said. Surely there were others that he could of sought out. Kazura could do what others could not among his peers. She knew that too well, but, nothing made her feel more appreciated than Marcus coming to her for such a request. In the hopes that their connection together, along with the circus grounds, gave the extra support that he needed to return to the strength he once held, or to that of greater strength.

"Oh course Marcus. Anyzing for you." she smiled while aiding him toward the middle of the center ring. Once removed from his wheel chair did the woman rest herself against his backside. Her slender arms coiled around his chest to have her chest pressed onto him. And no it wasn't for an act of seduction. This was something more, to sync the rhythm of her heart with his. Didn't matter to her what condition he was in, she was there to support him. To provide him with the strength that she knew he had. Her hand slowly inching up to where his heart was before she whispered in his ear, "Reiatsu iz ze strength of your heart Marcus. Your spirit."

Her palm circled the surface over his chest. "Reiatsu iz made of ze spirit Marcus. It iz your inner zelf. It iz effected by whatz you feel and what iz on ze mind." To Harle the strength of her spirit was considered to be the strength of her will. It is the conclusion that she found herself as she came to overcome the obstacles that have been barred down onto her. Though different Marcus was going up against his own obstacles. As to what they were Harle was not aware of, regardless, she would remain with him to see that him overcome them. "Use what iz inzide Marcus. It iz like using one of your techniques. First, we zall have your spirit manifest. Conjure it."

[Marcus Cole]

"Doez zhis remind you of zhat day?"

Harle’s words were almost startling, pulling Marcus out of his dream state. Since she had pushed his wheelchair out of the apartment, his eyes stared blankly ahead while his mind relived that day in reverse. He saw himself walking backwards from his apartment, carrying the most beautiful girl in the world in his arms. With his back leading the way, Marcus took the girl to the abandoned circus grounds where, they performed incredible stunts on the trapeze alongside one another, like separate bodies acted on the same will.

But their show could not last forever. Soon, the acrobatic couple began resting on the benches, enjoying a soundless conversation. But suddenly, the tone of the discussion took a strange turn. The man’s eyes were soaked with tears that spilled over on his face. The girl suddenly rose from her seat and left the tent, leaving the man with nothing but the echoes of his sobs. He was alone.

But Harle pulled him out of that nightmare. "Doez zhis remind you of zhat day?" Marcus nodded his head. Today reminded him of the night when everything changed for the better, the night Marcus and Harle were blessed by fate. A steady breeze blew through his hair as he turned his head to look at the face of the angel behind him. A effortless smile graced Marcus’s face. "I wish zat momentz like zhis could last forever."

“Yes.”

The fullbringer had no strength in his body, and his spirit took a crippling blow. He had been suffering from depression and self-loathing throughout his recovery while he continued to push his body beyond its current limits out of desperation. The last few months had been the worst of his life, but all of that negativity and misery dissolved before Harle’s comforting sky blue eyes. He could spend an eternity locked in her gaze.

When they arrived at the circle, Marcus was ecstatic when Harle agreed to train him in the spiritual arts, a field where he had very little experience. Marcus allowed her to guide him out of his wheelchair. He didn’t at all question her actions. He had complete faith in the woman beside him, and he was willing to place his life and future in her hands. Marcus’s eyes shut as Harle pressed herself against him from behind, her body heat merging with his own. Marcus could feel her every movement, hear her every breath and heartbeat. "Reiatsu iz ze strength of your heart Marcus,” she told him. “Your spirit."

My heart… how do I train my spirit? the fullbringer wondered to himself. He could easily devote his sweat and energy toward strengthening his muscles and building agility, balance, and precision with his body. However, the idea of doing the same with something as intangible as his spirit was difficult for him to comprehend. Has Harle’s hand orbited the center of his chest, she continued to explain. "Reiatsu iz made of ze spirit Marcus. It iz your inner zelf. It iz effected by whatz you feel and what iz on ze mind."

‘Feelings’ were almost foreign to Marcus. He had lost touch with his sensitivity and humanity for the most part. Only traces remained, the parts of him that loved Harle beyond words and admired Kazura Uzaki. The rest of Marcus’s feelings, however, were imitations. He hated Kazura’s enemies only because Kazura did, but that hate was artificial. At the core, Marcus had a very narrow emotional scope. But while he was limited to his adoration of Harle and Kazura, that passion ran deep into his bones and veins. It would have to be enough.

"Use what iz inzide Marcus. It iz like using one of your techniques. First, we zall have your spirit manifest. Conjure it." Marcus understood. With Harle’s comforting touch surrounding him, he was ready to attempt to flex his spiritual energy. With one deep breath in preparation, he summoned as much of his reiatsu as possible. To those with energy sensory, Marcus was an unlit wick at the end of a short candle. His spirit expanded to the level of a spark before fading away after a split second, leaving Marcus out breathless.

Harle talked about the strength of Marcus’s spirit. She told him that the power of his energy relied on his thoughts and emotions, but Marcus didn’t understand how to channel that into his reiatsu. He was lost. Between his breaths, he called to Harle for guidance in a whisper. “I… I-I’m trying but it’s not c-coming through l-like it sh-should. H-how do I make i-it stronger?”

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

OOC: I apologize for the wait hun. But here it is.

IC:

Harle had to admit to herself, she wasn't the most competent teacher among Soul Society. Despite earning the rank of Lieutenant her social skills in mentoring wasn't one of her best subjects. Teaching others was one of her responsibilities as a Captain, yet, she lacked in such skills. From her own experience she relied on her instincts and body to know what to. This took a while for the girl to understand what she was required to do in order to channel her reiatsu, in which case was the use of incantations. Usually a point of focus that helped the girl know where to direct her reiatsu to. Much like Harle, Marcus required the same form of tutelage to spark what he already possessed.

Her touch never left the man. The Captain's fingers trailed along the man's side, inching further toward the tip of his fingers. Harle's frame motioned across from the man with the settle warmth radiating from their union of hands. His warmth was subtle but she felt it as though it pulsed beyond her hand. "Ze spirit iz like un muscle. Zat iz ze only way to really make eet stronger. But to channel eet, eet iz best to have zomezing to focus on." The softness of her lips met with the tip of the Fullbringer's finger. It pursed to direct the entirety of the warmth to the tip of his index finger, only to leave a small wet residue over its surface. "Focuz on zat Marcus."

A means to channel the energy that was stored inside of his beaten body. The man had marvelous inner strength regardless if he didn't see it in himself. That same strength that certainly pushed his broken body back home, and back into her arms. That strength was there, all Marcus had to do was realize it himself. She distanced herself from the man with a few short paces in front of him. "Focuz on ze parts of your body Marcus. Pour your spirit into ze parts, and come to me." she smiled. Five feet. That was the distance that Harle kept from her love.

This is where Marcus' training began. But to begin with, Marcus had to build up his strength. For the man to reconnect with the strength he once had, the strength that she witnessed the first day they met. The techniques that Marcus displayed relied on Reiatsu in order to activate. Strange as to what they were, but the mechanics were the same. Channeling was what her love had to focus on. She knew from inspecting his body earlier that his body wasn't in the best condition, but that irrelevant. This is where Marcus' inner strength; his emotions and spirit, where they would come into use. His will, his desire was what drive him. That was the second test.

For Marcus this would be indeed a test for him. Harle knew that, and it was something that he had to learn. She knew what may have lied dormant in his spirit. Harle was there herself. Broken and within darkness she learned what it meant to carry herself, for her own sake as well for others. "Marcus, what iz it zat you want in your life? What iz it zat you want to accomplish fo ze future?.. I know what I want in ze future wiz you." She smiled warmly at the Fullbringer. That smile the swelled from her inner depths as she thought to herself of the bright future they could have together. That was one of the goals, one of her desires for the two of them. Rubbing the surface below the stomach was all that was needed to explain to him. This was what she wanted for the two of them, and wasn't a dream that she was willing to forfeit to anyone.

[Marcus Cole]

OOC: I think it’s my turn to apologize for the wait xD

Marcus took a deep breath, filling his lungs with as much air as they could hold, and slowly let the carbon dioxide escape his mouth and nostrils. As the air fled and his lungs deflated, he felt himself let go of the tension in his body. He relaxed himself like he was on the edge of the platform, moments from falling into the trajectory of the trapeze in front of him. Like he was at the peak of Uzaki Enterprise’s headquarters, leaning into the wind as it carried him over the edge, into a graceful flight toward the ground. In both cases, he would eventually have to catch himself, but that’s the thing about flying. It’s is the hard part. There’s something magical about falling,

Marcus felt the electricity from Harle’s touch as her fingers moved down his arms toward his own hands. "Ze spirit iz like un muscle. Zat iz ze only way to really make eet stronger. But to channel eet, eet iz best to have zomezing to focus on." The touch of Harle’s lips brought goosebumps to the fullbringer’s arms. Her presence alone drew something from him, an aura that he didn’t seem to have without her. She made him strong. He had to be strong for her. He was going to succeed this time.

”Focus on zat Marcus.” He closed his eyes and focused. The broken man visualized himself alone on an elevated platform, shrouded in darkness. The wind mockingly pushed him from behind. It was nothing more than a breeze, but he couldn’t fight it. He was falling over the edge. He was in free fall for what felt like hours, but he wasn’t scared. He didn’t feel anything at all, just the sensation of diving downward without any restraints. He forgot that the ground below would eventually stop him, but that didn’t matter. It was too dark to see when he would meet the concrete, so until then, he would just fall.

Suddenly, a soft touch clung to his wrists, swinging him away from his vertical descent into an arc. "Focuz on ze parts of your body Marcus. Pour your spirit into ze parts, and come to me." He was gliding now, not falling. Marcus looked up to find Harle’s face smiling above him. She dawned no suit and hid behind no make-up. It was Harle as he knew her, her hazel hair flowing like a river behind her dazzling gaze. She held him up. Without her, he would have kept falling.

"Marcus, what iz it zat you want in your life? What iz it zat you want to accomplish fo ze future?. I know what I want in ze future wiz you." As they reached the peak of their arc, Marcus felt his partner’s grip began to slip, releasing him into toward the black sky. The future… Marcus never considered his own desires and ambitions. He lived in the present, aspiring only to be there for Kazura and Harle. Without them, he was lost in the darkness.

Marcus felt himself slow down, eventually stopping completely. He could go no higher, and for a brief moment, he was suspended in the air, in between motions. In a second, he would fall again, but as he looked around, Harle wasn’t there. He would be back to where he started before, falling endlessly into the abyss. That was his present, and that would be his future. But something inside him fought to keep climbing. His hands reached upward, searching for anything to keep him afloat. His feet kicked with all their might, trying to find the footing to push upward. He didn’t want to fall alone again. The only image in his mind was that of Harle’s smiling face. You are my future. I need to be strong for you.

As the last traces of breath left Marcus’s lungs, his reiatsu began to pulse throughout his body. He was not flexing his spiritual energy. It simply ran through him, causing a visible blue glow to emanate from his skin. Every couple of seconds, a spark of electricity would jump across his arm and body. Marcus’s reiatsu was not very potent or plentiful, but it was there. He could bring it out, and that was the first step.

Marcus opened his eyes while maintaining the free flow of his energy. His confident gaze would meet with Harle’s, but he did not break his concentration. It would take fifteen seconds before he lost control, but Marcus would hold out for as long as he could. When his reiatsu returned to its ground state within him, he broke the silence.

“Th-thank you.”

OOC: From here, we can either continue Marcus's early training or timeskip to where he is at right now, letting him learn to use his fullbring and retrain in combat. It's up to you.

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

His arm reached her. The warmth of his hand fit comfortably into her small hand. The same warmth that the woman felt on the day that they first met. However, they were not strangers, nor suspicious of the other. It wasn't as it was the first time when they began to learn about each other. That was no longer the case. Now, they were melding as they did before. Back as they had when in his apartment. A sensation that she only knew with him. A sensation that will always remind her of what she is fighting for. And what she will always be fighting for. Though it is true that Soul Society will forever be place that she felt belonging. Out of sense of duty and responsibility, it will be a place that allowed for her to be strong. Yet, with Marcus, came with a different feeling.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Please Play}

That feeling was a sense of self. Not as a warrior. As a Shinigami. But, as a woman. The life that her parents dreamt of her having one day. Before, while she was growing up in France, she never did find a mutual connection any one person. Not once did she felt an understanding with the people around her, aside from making them happy with her skills. As an Entertainer, she didn't believe it to be possible to truly feel a connection with a single person. For a woman in her position, she could never accept one person to share a life with. That time, she didn't consider herself much as a person of the opposite sex to the male counter part. In all honesty, she didn't have time to really think about it.

During such a time Harle always did what she felt was right. Impulsive at times. But at the same time considerate to those she believed to be "good" and "honest" people. During that time she became a thief, taking from the rich and giving to the poor. She sheltered children and gave refuge to those that were less fortunate than her. Perhaps her feminine characteristics naturally played out as they would do for any other woman. Harle didn't know really. Most occasions men thought of her as weird or bizarre. So that didn't add points in terms of popularity with them. And yet, Marcus saw beyond that. The first man to do so and still treat her as any other person.

Certainly, he must have thought of her as ominous with her face paint, but he still gave her a chance. And considering that they were on opposite sides, that made their starting point more cautious. Harle didn't see that. She saw a man for who he was, not for what side he belonged to. Who was she to judge him based on another's actions. She had no right to do so. So, she opened herself up to Marcus, and since then, everything had been a joyful moment after another. Moments in her life that she wouldn't give up for the world. Well because, it is her world. And just seeing Marcus taking those steps towards her meant everything. It only enforced what she has with him all the more.

Their arms became tangled in one another. Her lips met with his knuckle before being pulled to her pelvis. The covered surface beside her belly, to serve as a reminder. There was no need for gratitude as he knew that she belonged to him. She would be his shield at any moment if he were in danger. His hand pressed gently against her belly, "Marcus, just remember zat I am alwayz here fo you." she said softly. Almost that of a whisper fell onto him before she continued on, "And shouldz you evah forget zat, alwayz remember zat zhis... zhis iz what I wantz fo us both one day. When my time of zervice iz ovah from ze Gotei 13.. zhis iz what I want fo us both. But, if only zat iz what you wantz too, Marcus."

The man would know what her gesture meant. When her time of service comes to an end, she would be that of an ordinary woman. One day, to be wed to him, and help him develop a future in which he may not have believed to be possible. She wouldn't have believed it herself in the past. But now she could. She could believe in it. She had no fear of such a future with him. His hand pressed against her womb. To further their bond together one day, and watch it blossom into something that true love could only muster. Her smile never left her face. That was her dream for the both of them. For one day to have a child, and to be there by Marcus' side each and every day.

To watch him wake each day, and see him to bed every night. To hold him close whenever he felt weak. To always push him forward when he required it. And to tell him that everything will be fine in the darkest of times. She will be there to hold his hand every step of the way, and give her life for him if need be. That was her wish. That was the future she wanted for them both, and she'll wait for as long as she had to make it all a reality. But, until then.......

Harle had to insure that Soul Society was ready to take on the task of the future without her.

Pulling him up once again, her gem-like eyes held him in her sights. "Let us continue Marcus. Once more." she spoke. She wouldn't have to wait for long before his strength returned to him. By that time, they were swinging once more on the trapeze together. Through the air and into each others arms, as it was always meant to be. As partners.

OOC: We will be time skipping hun if it is alright with you.

[Marcus Cole]

4 weeks later…

A black blur darted between the trees in the Japanese wilderness. The forest was dense, providing much cover and shade for the man to move through in order to keep himself hidden. Shade would be very important soon, for the sun had just begun to rise. At night, at least he had a cloak of darkness to keep himself hidden, and that had been enough. Now, however, that advantage was lost. She would certainly find him soon.

But he had to prolong the inevitable. That was the first part of the training exercise. Marcus and Harle both excelled in the art of stealth. To be silent and unseen is to be deadly. While the fullbringer had not yet returned to the mastery of stealth he possessed before his injuries, he was not very far off. Harle, however, was a step and a half above him. She would know how to track her prey, so Marcus must be prepared for any attacks. He had an eye watching every direction, anticipating a strike from his mentor. Most would detest the constant paranoia and apprehension that came with this exercise, but not Marcus. This was a game he was good at, and even if he was outmatched, he enjoyed the thrill. It was much more exciting than combat.

During the past four weeks, Marcus had poured himself into his training. Fortunately, Harle made herself available, working around her responsibilities as a Captain of the Gotei Thirteen. Perhaps she had some obligations that she needed to return to briefly, but nonetheless, she spent most of the month with Marcus. The fullbringer had a hard time showing his appreciation. ‘Thank you’ never seemed to be enough, and the small smiles they exchanged certainly didn’t cut it. He hoped Harle could feel his gratitude, circumventing normal means of communication through her understanding of the man.

Although Marcus devoted himself to training to distract himself as well. He remembered Harle’s words: ”When my time of zervice iz ovah from ze Gotei 13.. zhis iz what I want fo us both. But, if only zat iz what you wantz too, Marcus." The look in Kaijin’s eyes was that of pure sincerity. She meant it. She was willing to leave everything for Marcus. While Marcus would love more than anything to wake up every morning beside Harle has he had done in the past month, he knew he couldn’t promise the same.

He wasn’t being selfish. There wasn’t a greedy bone in his body. Instead, Marcus was thinking of his duty and dedication to Uzaki Enterprise and Kazura’s own mission. If Harle asked him, he would desert those commitments, but even if he left his job at Uzaki Enterprise behind, his only source of money would be lost. Kazura payed well, but Marcus didn’t have nearly enough money saved up to take care of Harle and himself for even a few years. He needed his work, and it might often send him away.

But that was only one concern that troubled the fullbringer. The second was more personal, something Harle had picked up on as well. At first, it only seemed like his stutter grew worse. However, more recently, his speech as a whole was handicapped. Harle would hear very different words from those Marcus spoke, and it made verbal communication impossible. Writing was the only way Marcus could articulate himself, and his silence felt like another barrier between him and Harle. She was one of the few people he felt comfortable around, yet he couldn’t even speak in front of her. The strange condition that plagued him made Marcus feel like he was reverting to his old, lonely self.

But those were not thoughts that he wanted on his mind. In order to push them from his focus, he moved through the shadows. Marcus had a feeling that Harle was close, and if he continued to run, she would have the advantage of a direct fight. Instead, he scaled the largest nearby tree in less than a second. His feet landed silently on a thick branch fifty feet above the ground, surrounded with a blanket of leaves that surrounded and hid Marcus. The fingers of his right hand tightened around a metallic kunai. He was ready.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats, Skills, and Items}

Strength - [100] (60) Points

Speed - [400] (600) Points

Spiritual Pressure - [200] Points

Reiatsu Strength - [400] (800) Points

Light Aura - [60] Points

Dark Aura - [40] Points

Instinct - [150] (112) Points

Senses - [150] Points

Energy sensory - [0] (0) Points

Healing Expertise - [0] Points

Total SP: [1400] Points

Abilities

• [Martial Arts: Escrima] {1}
  
  
• [Weapons: Throwing Weapons] {1}
  
  
• [Battle Analysis] {1}
  
  
• [Strength of Will] {1}
  
  
• [Special Skill: Movement] {1}
  
  
• [Stealth] {1}
  
  
• [Acrobatics] {1}
  
  

Items:

15 Kunai

Kunai Canon

Suit MK I

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

This was the time. The time to push further for the sake of those who she loves. At first she was a bit skeptical, primarily due to the time taken for rehabilitation. She was curious, and yet cautious about as to if her love was prepared for this challenge. For that reason, the reason why she strove to push herself to fight him. Not only for her sake, but for his as well. Harle had a desire to see how far that Marcus was willing to go to achieve his own dreams. She respected that, and more so, she wanted to help. Her desire to see Marcus stand tall as the man she always knew that he was.

Rustling through the trees did the wind cause the leaves to flutter and fall. Utter silence. Aside from the night life that frolic naturally through the brushes. The setting couldn't have been more fitting to how they operated. Their line of work, as assassins and soldiers for their respected organizations, the setting could not be more perfect. Soon dawn will be upon them, more than likely putting an end to the test. But before that, Harle will push the man that she loves. This was his test. Should she restrain herself in such a test, then it would only bring him shame. Thus, she will pour onto him her own experiences as a Captain of the Gotei Thirteen.

The gentle steps of her movements brought Harle further into the dark depths of the wilderness. The brush of the wind stirred the branches that surrounded the woman, concealing the subtle motions of the Shinigami. And despite her level in stealth, Harle had to restrain her Spiritual Pressure. Keeping her presence as faint as possible, Harle limited the use of reiatsu for the time being until she grew closer to the man's position. He kept himself hidden well in terms of human sensory. His own movements were cautious and slow. Before his time of weakening she experienced Marcus' abilities first hand. When they first met, his abilities surpassed her own, this included in terms of experience. His experience and knowledge prior to this time remained within in.

However, in terms of indicating an individual's Spiritual Pressure, Harle did not lack in the department. When focusing her ability she could foretell where her lover resided. She could feel him. The reiatsu that emanated from his body was there. Beyond those that she encountered in the past, his reiatsu was what she was more familiar with. She knew the area that he kept himself hidden within. However, as to what he was planning was an entirely different matter. Harle had to take precaution when encountering a foe, to which she intended. He was close, close enough for her technique to have an effect. Pushing inward, the Shinigami musters the reiatsu required to mix it inside her body before spewing it out from her pursed lips.

The haze of purple smoke emerges from the woman's lips out into shallow brush. Climbing up the gas begins to spread to cover the length of a ten foot radius. Its swarming haze clearly visible to the human eye, including the strong aroma that soon followed shortly after its appearance. After its initial use, it would remain within the area for some time. A good amount of time to lure the target away from his hiding spot. And as it did Harle would remain lying and waiting for him. The secondary technique that the Kunoichi mustered was Apex Hunter. The thin layer of reiatsu that overlapped her body allowed for a smooth fusion of the woman's body with her environment. To those who saw her it would seem as if her body was sinking into the tree itself. There, she waited to strike.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Harle Stats and Skills}

Type: ( Shadow - Level 3 )

Strength - [100] (/2) = 50 Points

Speed - [300] Points + (150%) = [750]

Spiritual Pressure - [400] - (40%) = [240]

Reiatsu Strength - [400] Points + (60%) = [640]

Light Aura - [50] Points

Dark Aura - [50] Points

Instinct - [175] Points (-25%) = [131]

Senses [125] Points (-25%) = [93]

Energy sensory - [100] Points + (50%) = 150

Healing Expertise - [0] Points

1. Stealth - [2]

2. Acrobatics - [2]

3. Special Skill: Hoho - [2]

4. Weapon: Throwing Knives - [2]

5. Martial Arts - Mixed Martial Arts: Kajukenbo (Taekwondo, Judo, Sanshou) - [3]

After the events of Fate of the King Harle has begun to develop her own style of martial arts. Studying upon other martial arts the girl has been able to fuse their individual styles into a single entity. Sanshou, or Chinese Kickboxing, is a free style fighting style that consists of close range and successive punches and kicks. Freely moving the body without restrictions and serving as a foundation to build upon, though, it is through Judo that Harle maintains control of her proximity. In overall performance Judo's influence in this fighting style allows for fluid counters by using hip and throwing techniques in conjunction with it her own body weight. But it is Harle's specialty in Taekwondo that allows the girl to deliver the consistent power that drives this fighting style. Not being too keen with hand to hand, Harle resorts to using her feet to combat. Altogether, the portions of three styles are joined to maximize movement for maximum efficiency with minimum strength.

6. Mental Skill: Battle Analysis - [2]

7. Strength of Will - [2]

Reiatsu: 2000/2400; -200 Ghastly, -200 Apex Hunter

SPOILER: Click to show

{Ghastly}

Class: [4]

Technique Type: [Other]

Usable By (Technique is available 0to which races?): [Shinigami]

Technique Element: [Poison]

Technique Description and Effects (Explain appearance, powers, and effect):
A cloud of heavy teal smoke that is blown from the mouth of the user. Hazy and thick it does not interrupt breathing and does not effect the body in any means. Nevertheless, this is still a toxic cloud that is infused with the user's reiatsu in order to shroud the mind with hallucinations. What this technique does not effect in the body it does to the mind. Specifically it targets the alert factor within the individual's mind that slowly spreads into the senses. Remember that this technique is harmless. With that to the side, Ghastly effects an individual by breathing in or touching sensitive skin like the Eye balls. Only breathing in the gas or making contact with the eye balls are the only ways that the individual can be effected.

When affected by the technique the individual's instincts begin to ping as though the individual is about to be attacked. When and where these pings alert the effected individual are done by the technique's user. This goes effectively well to deceive those with instincts 125 and higher. The more sharper that the individual's instincts are, then the more effective the technique is. Yet, when being inside the gas for 2 posts, then the effects spread to the person's Senses. This is in terms of visual and hearing. Sounds of foot-steps and a shadow silhouette dashing in the midst of a cloud of gas. This shadow only moves around the effected individual. The technique only effects individuals with Instincts below 200.

How to use technique (How is it activated?):
A single cost of 200 reiatsu conjures the toxin from within to have the gas spew out from the lips of the user. After, the gas will cover a 10 foot radius of where the gas was released and lasts for 4 posts, and does have an additional cost of 75 reiatsu to have the effected individual's instincts to alert each time, at a location of the user's choosing. If prolonged in the gas then the other effects of the silhouette costs another 75 reiatsu.

Technique Drawbacks (Limitations, repercussions for use, etc)
Clearly this technique does have its limitations. The effects only work if the individual is within the gas itself. The gas can be blown away with a shockwave or a wind technique. The reiatsu cost is a drawback, and [Poison Resistence 2] can be used to be immune to the technique.

Incantation and Effect:
None.

Made By: Harle

Reserved? (Yes/No) (Can others use your technique, or just your character?): Only reserved for members of Squad 2.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Apex Hunter}

Class: [4]

Technique Type: [Energy]

Usable By (Technique is available to which races?): [Shinigami, Rogue, Arrancar, Fullbringer, Bount]

Technique Element: [Energy]

Technique Description and Effects (Explain appearance, powers, and effect):

Barreling through the ground, or other surfaces, towards the target in order to position themselves at an ideal striking g point. Apex Hunter revolves using numerous surfaces to move about freely while under the cover of the Earth or other constructs. The user moves at their own speed rate and is capable of remaining underground, or within a surface with continuing payment. When in use it will take 100 Energy Sensory to locate the individual. Should the user posses [Stealth], it will add an additional 50 requirement to Energy Sensory for each rank of [Stealth].

How to use technique (How is it activated?):

A reiatsu cost of 200 reiatsu with a hand on the ground, or surface, will activate the technique. To actively continue the technique will require a cost of 100 reiatsu per post. Once in use, the user will be able to travel underground and into other surfaces that are connected to the ground. When activated, the user will seem to have sunk into the ground, but really they have just merged with the surface in order to move freely about it. This is done by propelling the user through the ground with their reiatsu.

Technique Drawbacks (Limitations, repercussions for use, etc)

Apex Hunter is only limited to surfaces that are connected to the ground, which does mean walls and buildings and ceilings. This does mean that the technique can not effect those that are in the air. This technique is considered nonlethal as its sole purpose is to move about freely within surfaces. This is a technique which supports the user's abilite to move about any surface that is not created by an opponents power, such as reiatsu made water, artificial walls, like barriers, etc. Only inanimate surfaces.

Incantation and Effect: None

Made By: Harle

Reserved? (Yes/No) (Can others use your technique, or just your character?):

Members of Squad 2, and can be taught to others

[Marcus Cole]

OOC: Sorry for such a short post after such a long time :/

Unfortunately, Marcus lacked any energy sensory capabilities, so even with Harle’s reiatsu flaring with the activation of her techniques, the fullbringer was unaware of her actions. However, his eyes peered between the leaves that hid him. They noticed the violet gas rising below him. There wasn’t a chance Marcus would wait to see what type of poison the gas carried, so his feet pushed off the branch below his feet. Those with untrained vision might mistake the man’s body with that of a graceful bird as it flew through the air into the fog of the neighboring tree’s leaves, thus avoiding the gas completely.

But evasion was a short-term strategy, and it would fail when tested by time. Harle was stronger than him. He’d have to be clever. That’s why, when his foot pushed off the thick branch that held his weight, it left an imprint of his reiatsu. Immediately after he had leaped to the next tree, the branch would snap and splinter into sharp chunks the size of a fist as though he had punched them with all the strength he held before being hospitalized. With a speed and strength of 640. The chance of them hitting the Captain was slim, and they’d likely just force her merge completely with the tree. However, it was the best move he could muster at the moment. The game was in its earliest stages. Soon, Harle would make more of an effort to subdue him, and he’d fight back with all he had. He would be strong for her.

Marcus's Reiatsu Remaining: 1900/2000

SPOILER: Click to show

{Shadow Punch}
Technique Name: [Shadow Punch] (Learned)

Class: [4]

Technique Type (Kido, Hollow/Arrancar Technique, Human World Dweller Technique, Other): [Other]

Usable By (Technique is available to which races?): [All Races]

Technique Element: [None]

Technique Description and Effects (Explain appearance, powers, and effect): [Insert Below]

Marcus's fighting style is extremely fast paced and is focussed on eliminating his opponent as quickly as possible by dominating in close-combat with his lightning fast speed and superhuman strength. However, in hopes in increase the amount of blows he can land in a period of time, Marcus has created this technique. All it requires for activation is direct contact or contact through a weapon, and Marcus must then leave a minuscule imprint on his target that way, even if the contact is for a split second. Marcus may then activate this technique whenever he wishes, and doing so causes the target to be hit only in the area that Marcus had contacted with a force similar to a punch with the power of the user's strength or reiatsu strength behind it. The technique lasts for five posts, and unless activated before then, it will fade away. While the reiatsu is being focussed, only mastered techniques may be used due to the concentration required to purge themselves of Marcus's reiatsu.

How to use technique (How is it activated?): [Insert Below]

Stated above.

Technique Drawbacks (Limitations, repercussions for use, etc) (Insert Below)

First of all, this technique requires the user to pay 100 reiatsu to activate. In addition, in order to be used, the user must first make contact with his opponent, making it impossible to land without having already closed the distance first, forcing the user to rely on his or her own abilities to use this technique. In addition, one with an energy sensory of more than 200 may detect the reiatsu placed on them.