Harle vs The Kawadas [R, DE]

[Kento Waffles]

Quest Name:[/b] [Harle vs The Kawadas]

Who can participate?:[/b] [Anyone named in the synopsis]

Quest Time Frame (How long it takes):[/b] [5 pages maybe]

Quest Setting (NDE/DE):[/b] [DE]

Quest Synopsis:[/b] [Harle "Kaijin" Quinn wants to avenge her mentor, Kenryoku, and take the resources of his family to make them great again. Yet this requires a forceful takeover of the Kawada family, something its elders do not take lightly... What stands in her way now is the very family she wants to conquer. Though weakened, the Kawadas will not be taken without a fight.]

Maximum Number of Participants:[/b] [Varies]

Overall Goal:[/b] [Take the Kawadas]

Number of missions involved:[/b] [6]

BASIC Synopsis of each Quest mission:[/b]

1. Harle vs Mooks - Like in the Kuroi Invasion series, there will be Mooks. Harle will begin by fighting against 191 Mooks, identical to what Zou set up vs Kaen Youji, except that these Mooks are all Kawada soldiers. In other words, they are Soul Reapers. Victory here is worth no TP, but allows advancement to Mission 2.

2. Harle vs Strong Mooks - The outcome of Mission 1 is Harle taking some of the outskirts of Kawada Land. She is now on official Kawada Land. In a location with large stone towers and multiple defenses, Harle will be facing 10 class 2 Mooks. Winning here allows advancement to Mission 3.

3. Harle vs Raygin + Mooks - Raygin Kawada did not always enjoy his adoption from Shade, but since Shade's death his influence in the family has grown and he has come to respect what he was assimilated into. Here, Harle will battle 5 class 1 Mooks and Raygin Kawada. This takes place in a huge forest just before the Kawada Manor.

4. The Kawada Manor - Harle has arrived at the Manor. But in order to take it, she must defeat its Invasion Level defenses and enter the Manor. From there, she will need to face the internal defenses and make it to where the Elders reside. Along the way, it is possible that she is forced to do battle against allies of the Kawadas, perhaps even other Captains...

5. Kawada Last Stand - Before Harle can talk to the Elders, there is one last Boss...

6. Harle must now find a way to convince the Elder Kawada Council as well as Central 46 that this family should belong to her.

Recommended Class for entry:[/b] [1]

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

The chill in the air wasn't what had the woman's hairs standing up. No. The fresh mountain air that strummed her nerves and senses, its very presence waking those that remained asleep in the dead of night. A sea of trees and structures rest at the base of her footing. The land of her predecessor, the land that will hold the key in ridding the war within the shadows. The crescent moon shined upon her with its smile, that same light that revealed the very land of the Kawadas to her. The land which held the key in aiding the Captain in achieving her goal for a better tomorrow.

Beside her, her Lieutenant, as well as a dozen members of her stealth force, Tsunami. This night, the Captain of Squad will begin her assault on Kawada lands, though, it was her hope that such an operation can be handled without blood shed. If anything, she prayed that the matter could be settled through negotiations. A glimmer of hope, and more than anything, she had the credentials to succeed in such a role as Head. She herself was capable of pushing the house forward not only as a Captain, but as Kenryoku's successor. She was the only one capable of such a feat when those others among the Kawada could not. None of them were capable of leading the House out of their current predicament. Only she could.

The woman's finger was flicked, issuing the silent order for Tsunami to disperse. It was as they practiced through the simulation. Tsunami wasn't going to participate in the fight, instead, they were sent to disrupt communications of possible reinforcements, to mislead and bring their battle lines into utter confusion. While two members remained behind to carry the body of the fallen Kawada in tow, Jinbei Kawada. This pair was to follow behind Harle to serve as evidence. Clothed in white ceremonial garbs, the elderly Kawada was treated with the upmost respect. And with him, a copy of Harle's report on their confrontation.

As for the initiation strike force, it will consist of Harle, Kisala, and the Arrancar Noriko, including her guardian. At this point in time, they were held on standby in the world of the living, posing as a Mercenary with a pet Hollow. Only by her Zanpakuto will the Senkaimon be opened for them to pass through. Yet, in the back of her mind she knew the risks of what her actions could bring about. Treason.

Harle knew of the risks, the weight that such an act carried with it, she would take it all onto herself should they meet with failure. No. She couldn't think of such a thing. She couldn't. Failure was not an option for her. She wouldn't accept failure. "Kizala, do you understand what we are doing, what we are about to do?" Before moving onto their current position, the two met the night before. Further then that. Was the night during her operation with the Lieutenant that the Captain explained to the Shihoin woman. What her plan was. To take over the Noble House of the Kawadas, bringing them under her control.

The method that she desired in such transaction would be through negotiations, hoping that they be willing to at least listen to her words, rather than spending their lives needlessly. She hoped instead of moving against her, that they side with her to bring about change, and restore the honor in which the Kawada had before. That was her desire, and one she was risking everything. Thus, should negotiations fail, force would be required. That was the second option should her primary fail. Overlooking the scene the French woman took another breath before looking back to her Lieutenant, "Whatever happenz Kisala, know zat Harle tried to do what was best, and zat, no one would be to blamed but Harle. Zhould we fail." she said with a soft smile.

After their trading of words did the two stepped off the ledge, and down into the land of the Kawadas.

---

Two days before..........

"What do you mean zat you are Shinzui?" Over the landscape of Karakura Town, the duo were face to face once again. Or perhaps, for the first time. The Captain wasn't aware of who she had been speaking to. At first, she was skeptical, assuming that someone else stole information from the Arrancar and decided to take her place. A copy, in order to gain entry to Soul Society. That wasn't going to happen. Yet, regardless of what manner of trickery that the Arrancar was attempting to play she had knowledge of their previous encounter. She knew detail by detail as to what transpired of their fight with the Adjuchas by her side.

Despite the woman's reflecting image of Shinzui, she couldn't put faith into her, at least until she described the deal that was made between them. Only after hearing "Noriko" speak in detail of their incursion, did Harle begin to put the pieces together. Only then did the Captain believe. She didn't have all the details pertaining to the woman's latest transformation, only that she knew what was required of her. "Understoodz, az long az you know what our deal was, and zat, you are willing to follow. Zat iz all I needz." is what she said to the Arrancar. The Arrancar smiled with absolute glee painted across her face.

As Harle turned away to leave, she heard her voice, "I shall uphold our arrangement, as long as you hold up your end of our bargain that is, Captain." That was the other half to their arrangement. Asked of something, nothing could be gained without giving back. This was the arrangement that the two made with each other. Shinzu- Noriko was to offer her power to help Harle achieve her goals, and Harle, once in power, was to give something to Noriko. The only alteration to their arrangement was the timing in which Harle was to give Noriko her gift. One for one. That was the deal made, and a service the Captain didn't wish to use often. Jinbei was right about one thing, Harle lacked the sufficient numbers to complete such an operation, so instead, she gathered those who were nearly as strong as she was. What she didn't have in quantity, she made up in quality.

With her pair of Hollows waiting on the wing for her signal to be unleashed upon her foes. The real question was when they were needed.

---

Present

Garbed in her operations uniform, cloaked in her Captain's Hatori, did Harle approach the entry into Kawada territory. The wide pathway led towards the patch opening within the sea of trees. A moment to breath before her and Kisala would be consumed by the Kawadas might. Strange. Confused. Conflicted. Harle spent her time of duty fighting Hollows and Rogues who have escaped justice of the Gotei 13, but now, she was pitting herself against those who were like her in every way. Those in service to Soul Society, and more. They were standing to protect their family. They had every right to do so, hoping that they will set aside, and allow her passage through to the Main House.

Into her Hatori did Harles hand plunged into. Her fingers dedicated on but a single target within. From the shadows of her cloak did she retrieve the weapon. The Zanpakuto of Jinbei Kawada, rose into the air to have all those around to gaze at it. To take into their minds at who they were facing against. "Who standz before you here iz Capitaine Harle Quinn, ze successor of ze late Kenryoku Kawada. Harle iz here to request an audience wiz ze Kawada Elderz. En fo zhoze zat wish to come at Harle, do zo now." she demanded. Harle stood at the ready, with her Zanpakuto keen on opening the gate to the world of the living.

Reiatsu: 2400

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats and Skills}

[Overall Points - 1600]

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]

Harle's New Skill Set Reference

[Kento Waffles]

The bulk of the Kawada lands were different from those of other noble houses. The Kuchikis had theirs developed into real estate and charity. Such things as rich district living areas, marketplaces and communities, or affordable housing for the poor. Other than areas for supply houses, the Kuchiki Manor, and research facilities, the Kuchikis devoted most of their land to this kind of venture. The Kasumi'Oji family lands were primarily research based. Almost all of their land was used to create training areas or places where experiments could be performed. Science, manufacturing of technology and weapons. These were their tool. It went without saying that they were exceptional for this.

The majority of Shihoin land was wildlife. They believed in training in a natural environment, and thus their land was mostly untouched. It was about having thick jungles within which their assassins could be trained in secret. Security around their borders was incredibly dense. Either way, the other three major noble houses used their land in a productive way based on their goals. They utilized the natural value of the land in order to achieve their purposes. The Kawadas, however, were different. They had no interest in natural value to the land. They created the value, obliterating most of the wildlife and decimating any semblance of real estate on the land that became theirs.

The Kawada land was heavily industrial. It was also ugly. Their land was filled with factories for manufacturing and heavy industry. They were a family that was fueled by complex political processes and cycles. Theirs was a family which grew more powerful the more fierce a harsh war was waged. The greater conflict became, the greater the Kawada family became. Their land was barren but for work camps, factories, and more. Thus, when Harle appeared on Kawada land, that was the first thing she would see. Her first steps would be onto a huge construction site where hundreds of Kawada Mooks were in the process of moving metal pieces around to build some kind of large facility, which was half done.

When she made her declaration, she would be met by stares from the Kawada Mooks. Most of them were low ranks who simply did a job that they were paid to do. Many of these weren't even members of the Kawada family, but rather were hired help or were minor nobles dominated by the Kawadas and made to be subservient. When she made her declaration it fell on deaf ears, and was made to people who did not have the power to grant her request or even understanding of what she truly wanted or stood for. To them, the Asauchi of Jinbei Kawada, recognizable only by high ranking Kawada members, was just a sword. To them, the name "Kenryoku Kawada" was just that. A name of someone higher up that they had never even met.

So when Harle first made this declaration, a young man in his physical forties with some graying hairs and a hardened look walked up to her. Flanking behind him were 99 other Mooks. All of them were extremely large, muscular men wearing dark black rubber suits that seemed to protect them from fire used for welding and a variety of other tools, some spiritual. One hundred men of this sort were looking at Harle now. The first young man to approach her spoke. "Ma'am, this is private property even to a Captain of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads. I am going to have to ask you to leave, or we will have no choice but to take action against you."

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

The Captain smiled. Full of warmth as she donned on average with those among her ranks. Although the land was damned to the nature of that of the Kawadas, its people managed. Such resolve and audacity hardened the people of land into strong beings. And though she smiled on the outside, she felt dread for those who were forced to live it. While there were people who desired a challenge, to better themselves, there were those who were forced into such a life. Unwilling and subservient, it is natural for noble houses to take in others into their ranks in order to further growth and expand the houses dominion. Looking back at to Kenryoku and Jinbei Kawada she had to wonder, thus she answered the large man. "Harle apologizes Monsieur, Harle will be moving very shortzly. Zough, Harle doez have to zay zhat zhis land iz uner new management. Or at least, will be." she chuckled.

The Captain took no time to waltz past the man into the work area. Jinbei's Zanpakuto wasn't required at the time, so its existence was whisked back into the woman's sash for later. Harle's declaration of change in leadership may not be something that the men had interest in, or rather they were more interested in who would be more beneficial to them. Harle knew little of the people, which was more of a reason to probe them... to understand them. If these were people she were to lead soon, then she had to understand them.

Factories and construction. Damage to the land and to the natural resources that it once held. Like the people who worked the land, the Kawadas enslaved the land itself and bent it to their will. But what did it cost the people that who lived in it? What of their homes and families? In order to make such efforts bear fruit, the land must be readied, even if it meant the loss of those who were believed to be useless. She had to find out, "Tell Harle, how do ze members of ze Main house treat everyone here," her eyes glanced to every bodied man working, directing her words to those whose efforts made such facilities possible, "Do zhey treat you well? Can you tell Harle zat ze Kawadas do well fo you?"

"What do you zay zat Harle can make zings better?"

As of now, the woman wasn't taking the area by force. Instead of shedding blood of those who were working for the Kawadas, Harle sought to recruit them. For an outsider to reach out to them and their concerns, for she too was once that of the lower class. The lowest class. Harle's family was never a rich family. They were constantly on the move, ever wandering the land to bring joy to the people that they meet with. Never did the Quinns pay tribute to the nobles, nor asked for much for those around them without paying back what was due. But she knew. The French girl knew of how arrogant some of the Nobles could be. Some who rarely interact with their people. Often times they have their servants monitor their activities to keep to their schedules.

The woman gazed about the area, pulling away what she could in terms of information. Analyzing the workers, their conditions, equipment, and body language. The smallest detail that she could take away from them and apply it as a leader. What she could do to make life better for them. She remained within the presence of the man, never going beyond where she was not allowed to venture into. A small suggestion of respect for what they do. And one that she hoped would be heeded. "What if Harle could make zings better fo zhis land, fo everyonez here? Tell Harle, what would you change in zhis land?" She turned about to smile at the man.

Harle was that of the Gotei 13, her name not one to be known to those of the Kawada land. Her presence being there was something that cold be considered strange. Suspicious even, as she was nothing more than an intruder. But an intruder with possibilities. Someone who actually was challenging the Kawadas. Her declaration alone was that of a remark that signified such an idea. For those who dared, their thoughts of challenging the Kawadas could begin with her. Them using her as she would use them for a mutual goal perhaps. This was an idea of course, one that possibly urged for those people who sought it. A change in power.

[Kento Waffles]

The men were quite perturbed by Harle carelessly venturing onto the site without permission. Again, it was private property. However, given she was not causing too much trouble thus far, a majority of the men working on the structure chose to ignore her presence as she looked around. They had a project to complete. This building wouldn't make itself, and they were beginning to arrive at the more difficult parts where complicated machinery was required to achieve some of their goals. They did not have time to think about whatever Harle was saying. They were on a schedule. Not only did their pay depend on keeping to it, but for many so too did their lives.

Harle had luck only with those who were on noticeably short lunch breaks. One of the men was bigger than the rest, surly with a thick gray beard. He must be in his final years on the job, surely. He may be huge, but his body had to give out eventually. When Harle asked him about how he was treated, he responded. "A job is a job," he told her. "Most of us don't have spiritual energy so we don't get hungry or thirsty, but we work so that we can improve the housing for our families or buy them nice things. I've been here since Jinbei Kawada's heyday. The hours have always been long, the work has always been hard, and we've never seen a Kawada family member here. A higher up comes by and pays us at the end of the month, or a punisher if we fall behind schedule."

These seemed like grueling times for all of them. Yet, "The pay is good though. You're hired on a daily basis here. You show up at the gates and they pick you to work. You know you risk your life every time you come. You know you don't have to come back. But everybody here comes back every day, and has been for years. Once you stop coming, they won't pick you again, and for some of us the pay is too good to refuse." These were the conditions of the lowest from the Kawadas. They were brought from poverty or were simply required to go by subservient noble families. No one was happy, yet no one would dare abandon the pay. This was probably the best paying position for hundreds of miles or more.

She would catch another, younger man on break later when asking what one might say to the idea that she could make things better. At this, he scoffed. "Gonna give us all raises?" he asked very sarcastically, then spat on the ground. "Long as someone keeps paying us, I don't give a flyin' monkey fuck, ya hear?" That attitude was one of rejection. One of a man that had given up to his circumstances. Provided he was able to come to work and get paid, it seemed that he hardly cared about the brutal conditions. Of course, everyone here had very deep eye bags. They were all exhausted. There were also a strangely high number of bald people here.

Someone would inform Harle that this construction was not always the work they were doing. Some days they toiled in the mines. Years of exposure to the unsafe chemicals in the mines led to many people's hair falling out. Other minor details were that some of the men had very dark skin, blistering even, showing that a lot of them had worked in harsh sunlight day in and day out with no protection. Their meals were almost all some form of sandwich or bento, and their lunch times were short. On average, one of them worked 14 hours a day and slept 6. The remaining 2 were for free time, errands, or family. Most of them confirmed having at least once wondered if their wives were cheating because of such absence.

When Harle got to the question of what should be changed, she would be speaking to yet another new face, one physically in his 30s. He was just ending the physical prime of his life, and so he was both huge and extremely athletic. He looked virtually tireless in his work, being only a fraction slower than a younger man. "Nothing you can change about the land," he said. "The work is fine. You really want to help? Get them to limit the hours we work and give us all raises. We're fine taking these risks if the reward can get better." That was before the same middle aged man from earlier who had first spoken to Harle put his hand on her shoulder from behind. It was noticeably warm and enormous.

"Ma'am, this IS private property. I do need you to leave now."

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

So much information to process. Too many to track with various outcomes and desires. Yet. All of the issues were confined to what she previously thought. A majority of the workers were here to support families and maintain a living. They slaved away at the conditions that the Kawadas set for them, and being driven to the ground for years, they knew nothing of it meant to be appreciated or equal. In other words they were just a labor work force. If lost then they could be replaced as easily without issues. The Kawadas were able to accumulate a force work with simple pay over the years, meaning that their relationship with their people was a give and take relationship. Other Noble Houses prospered with a mutual understanding and relationship, but this House does not. Give and take, that was all that it was, and it was the people that took away cons in the relationship. This infuriated the Captain. Which was the reason why she could not with hold her glare when the man rest his hand onto her shoulder.

"En Harle iz saying zat zhis land will be under new management." she stated marching towards the crowd. "Zhis land. Ze Kawada Family will no longer be able to zupport you all here. Wiz ze informations zat Harle haz, ze Kawadaz will not be able to maintain ze rank zat it haz now wizout un leader." She turned to the man who spoke of their treatment, "Job openingz will be limited, zat means zat half of you here will not be able to work anymo. Or at least, ze person next to you will be a rival, trying to steal your opportunities to work." She marched towards the sarcastic individual, her painted markings scrunching to the center, "Zat means zat your concernz of wages will be a zing of ze past. Since you won't even have a job anymo."

Harle's pools of blue faced the crowd who gave her their acknowledging gazes, "And zince none of you are under contract oo actual employeez, ze Kawadaz will not hezitate to find otherz zat will work fo lezz money. Money zat Harle iz zure zat will be able to continue en honest living." How was all of this happening? For what reason did they have to be concerned with throwing in their lots in a Noble House such as the Kawadas. If Harle's intelligence was accurate, then this situation concerned them all. "Ze Kawadaz no longer have ze influence zat zhey once had. With no leader, no influence in ze rolez of political power, ze Housez rank will fall. Zhis doez mean zat zupport from other families and ze Seireitei will stop altogether. Lezz zupport means lezz fundz and lezz suppliez. En other wordz, ze Kawada Family will no longer be able to ztand az ze Noble House zat it iz now. Zhey will have to pick and chooze what to fund, and cutback on people and projectz."

This was the concern that would trouble all of them. Unlike the Kuichikis and other Noble Houses, the Kawadas lack any form of political influence. They had no leader, no one among their ranks to truly represent the family, and lacked influence to do hold their own among the other families. Their funds will be dropped, easily seizeable by cunning individuals. The homes that hold the workers forces families would be torn apart by rivaling factions and Nobles. She can't imagine how much taxes would increase between districts. These matters included the lack of job openings with less pay meant that these workers will have to fight each other to even work a single day. These people would be at each others necks. Not only that...

"If zat iz not enough, zen wizz ze information zat Harle haz of Jinbei Kawada, ze Kawada Family and zhose working wizz zhem, Central 46 will take action against ze family too." This was going back to when Harle fought against the Kawada Elder. The man spoke of restarting a rebellion. That the Kawada still had potential in rising up to lay waste to Soul Society. Jinbei's strength was something to marvel over. Among the Shinigami that rose up in the ranks in Soul Society, he was one of the few that made rebellion possible, even spreading his own influence to the other Houses to join him. The man was a monster in his own sense. And with the files and reports that the Captain had with her, the Kawadas position in Soul Society will be seen as a threat. Once again, this will effect their ability to do business with other groups and factions. Eyes of thousands of people will fall onto them. Discrimination and fear of the Kawadas would excel, placing them under the same scrutiny as the Kasumi'ojis with every dealing.

The mooks had to really think of their current predicament. After all, should such a thing occur, then their very lively hoods will take a tremendous blow. Nothing will be the same again. But with Harle, they had a future. A strong possible future. This was what the Captain had been targeting. Harle's eyes met with the bulking man who had his hand on her, "Zhis private property will no longer matter, az well az your job here Monsieur. It iz only a matter of 'when' zhis land and jobz will not longer be something zat you will be able to come back to," the Captains shift, looking onto all of those who listened, "Each and every one of you have worked hard to get to where you are now, Harle knowz zhis. Harle haz been zhere too. She knowz what it meanz to work and ztrive fo what she haz. Shouldn't you all have ze zame opportunity to be mo zan what you are now. To be treated az zo you matter. After all, if not fo all of you, zhis would not be pozzible."

She paced back and forth as she continued on. Harle pointed out what the other families had that they did not. What they could become. She gave them an option to push past what previous leaders of the Kawadas had forced upon them. These people did not have to continue with such a living. They had the option to rid themselves of a eventuality that was going to to come, in one way, or another. Thus, her own resolve to see that her invasion was successful grew. Her hand met with the forearm of the man in his 30s. The youth spent in pushing himself, to strive towards to manageable life to help himself and his family. "Iz zhis what you want? To continue wiz zhis life knowing zat one day it will mean nothzing? Zat your body will break down and no longer be able to work, to support zhose zat you care fo? Zhis iz what waitz fo you all in ze end." Harle was forcing them to take a good look at the end results. What was in store for them all. "Zhis can be better. All of you deserve better zan zhis. Harle iz asking fo your help."

Hale wasn't asking for them to fight for her, but, "Harle would like your support, ze people zat help shape zhis land." The Captain's march brought her back to the center of those who were listening to her, who had hope for a better tomorrow. Those who strive for such a change, "Help Harle reach ze Main House of ze Kawadas. Help Harle bring zat change zat you all deserve... Harle iz not asking you to fight. Zat iz un decision zat you have to make fo yourzelves. Fo if you want to make zat future pozzible, zen please, Harle asks fo your help to bring zat tomorrow today... Zhis iz your land too, your home. Harle believez zat if you want fo a better tomorrow, zen you best prepare to fight fo it." she exclaimed.

[Kento Waffles]

There were murmurs within the crowd, now. Debate. Dissent. Could this be true? Was the Kawada Family truly without leadership? And what of Kenryoku Kawada? Where was he? It took a few minutes before everyone was up to speed. Those that had not paid attention before were made aware. Kenryoku Kawada had died in the Thirteen Court Guard Squads' war. He had no successor. What about that boy, his son? Too young, too untested. Jinbei Kawada had died in the world of the living. There had been an awful lot of setbacks during Seireitei's most recent war, but the latest of many that had begun to take their toll on the citizens. Didn't that girl say she's Kenryoku's successor?

After deliberation, the man that had asked her to leave, who seemed to be in charge, spoke to her once he had gotten consensus from the other men. "If they don't have a leader, I reckon you might be right about what will happen to our jobs. But your whole offer is resting on the idea that you can take charge. How can you guarantee that? The Kawadas still have an army. Do you?" That was a valid point, too. Did Harle have the forces to face off against the military industrial supergiant that was the Kawada family? Even with no leader to act as figurehead, they possessed a vast amount of resources. Their Elder Council was also able to keep them afloat for now, while a new leader was talked about.

Others cried out from within the crowd, denouncing Harle. "She's a fucking Soul Reaper! Why should we trust her?! And then another. "She's here to stir the pot! Just another warmonger like the rest of them!" And another. "No more dead families!" And some that were less ideal. "Listen to that fancy accent. She ain't from around here. How would she know anything about us?!" There were many dissenters who were less than convinced by what Harle was saying. It also did remain true that even if these Mooks moved aside and led her through, the Kawadas did have an incredibly powerful military force. Even for a Captain such as Harle, taking on that entire militia wasn't something to do lightly.

It was even probable that Harle may want to seek a meeting with others who could help. It was not quite legal for other Captains to assist her as Captains, but perhaps if she asked nobles for aid? There were numerous nobles that could be of use to her in high positions. Squad 6's Lieutenant, Himitsu, was someone who had returned to head the broken Kasumi'Oji family. He might even be sympathetic to Harle. Squad 7's Captain, Kimiko Shihoin, might be willing to help since if she was to succeed Okami one day, it would be beneficial to have the Kawadas as an ally rather than the antagonist and black sheep they had been for most of their existence.

There was also the matter of whether or not she could ask others. Sozen Kuchiki, Squad 6's Captain and the Head of the Kuchiki Family. Could he offer help? Would he be willing? Unlike other options, he did not have reason to sympathize with Harle, and what he might gain was tentative at best. Perhaps she could ask his son and Heir, Souza Kuchiki, Squad 13's Lieutenant. Harle had already met Souza and they were already allies of a sort. While without his father's permission he couldn't operate using Kuchiki resources, Souza was known to possess quite substantive private resources that he had been building in recent months. Still, how would she even ask them? Send a butterfly and ask to meet here?

"The way I'm seeing it," the leader of these Mooks was saying. "I'm not rightly sure that you can guarantee any of the things you say. Why should we take a chance on you and risk the Kawada military killing everyone here?"

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

Of what they speak of was true, what did Harle have that insured that she would be successful in this takeover? While she did have the support of the Arrancar and her guardian, she had Kisala beside her too. Beyond that, few of the members of Tsunami that were operating under her orders, including the individuals who carried Jinbei's body. Aside from them, the assets she could use were limited. Their concerns were reasonable. And although they were beginning to lean towards her side, the fact remained the same, that she didn't want them to fight in a battle that could kill them. That wasn't the goal. As a leader of a House, she would have to enter the mind set of one. In Kenryoku's and Jinbei's stead, Harle had to assume the role as Head. This was true.

"You are all correct. Harle doez not have un army. She doez not have zwells of money zat can change ze tidez zat we will go against. And it iz true, zat Harle doez not want to have ze people take part in un fight zat may kill zem. Zat iz not what Harle wantz." There was no hiding it. The Captain's resources were limited, despite being one of the Seireitei's guardians she lacked a sufficient force. She didn't wish to involve much of her squad, nor the remainder of her forces in Tsunami. This was an situation in which she had to prevail. In order to further prove that she is indeed a leader worthy in ruling the Kawada Household. All could to do was gaze at her Lieutenant as she thought. Who else?

"If Harle can provide you all wiz a means to fight, will you?" she inquired to the mid-aged man. Before the man could answer, the Captain narrowed her fingers, pinching the interior to her mouth to call a member her Tsunami escort. With it, a message was to be delivered, "Go to Squad 13s Lieutenant, Souza Kuichiki. Inform him zat ze Capitaine of Squad 2, Harle Quinn, would ask for hiz azzistance. Please inform him of our cause, and to where we are. Souza Kuichiki, and to Himitsu, Lieutenant of Squad 6." she said to the kneeling man clothed in black. She informed the messenger to be respectful when relying the message. Furthermore, she attached a Butterfly, explaining the in detail her reason for commencing such an operation. Including, documentation, her reports, to help support her cause. This was sent with haste, leaving with two other members of Tsunami to insure the messages safe transport.

Souza Kuichiki, the young Lieutenant who Harle sparred with, and had a bit of a friendly relationship. The Heir to the Kuichiki name, and the same young man who she has been sending documented messages to in terms of Harle's activities. From her suspicions to the Arrancar attacks on the Seireitei, to the rise in criminal activities. The build on of theories and corruption that rests within Soul Society, and that her theories point to someone in high standing who is capable of manipulating information. This was what the Captain entrusted to the Kuichiki Heir. Actually, he was among the few who she did trust with such sensitivity information. She could only hope that he would be willing to listen to her plea.

Then there was Himitsu Kasumi'oji. The Lieutenant to Squad 6 and a newly discovered family member to the Kasumi'oji House. She must admit that she never met the man in person, but even before his awakening as a member of the Kasumi'oji the man had a reputation of being a pacifist. At least to her knowledge. Two members of the other Houses whom Harle must request assistance from. Two men who were both prestigious and were seen as nobles in their own respect. Souza was an up and becoming Heir to the Kuichiki Household. A young man who has built a respectable background and who wields influence within his house, despite not being the ruling Head. The same could be said about the young Himitsu.

The new member of the Kasmi'oji was a peace loving individual. The same views and ideals that Harle desires to maintain even during such transaction. "Harle may not have un army, but she doez have powerful friendz. Friendz zat wield enough influence to make ze Kawadas zhink twice before acting." And then she had Kisala Shihoin, her own Lieutenant. A trusted member to the House of Shihoin. Although young as she may be, she is still a member of the House, closely connected to the Okami Shihoin, current Head of the Shihoin Family, and to Kimiko Shihoin, the Captain of Squad 7. Despite not having an army, Harle's potential to muster a force larger than that of a single House could ever hope to muster against. Any assistance that her contacts could provide, to signify that they would support her in her endeavors.

"Harle doez not wish to fight ze people here, or ze Kawadaz. What Harle desirez to do is insure zat ze House survivez, and to insure zat ze people prosper. Fighting should be ze last rezort in zhis matter. And zough Harle is not from around here, Harle doez know what it meanz to strive fo what she haz now. Harle haz come from un poor family. Un family zat worked hard to insure zat our family was safe and provided fo. Ze job nor ze conditionz didn't matter. But, Harle knowz. Her family lived in poverty, despite being owners of a traveling Circus. They traveled to numerous locations and cities to make their quota. Just to survive. Looking at the people around her, she saw a reflection of her parents, who pushed themselves to help keep the family afloat.

But alass, the real question was if the people were willing to fight for themselves. Will they allow the Kawadas to bully them? If she had to, then she could order half of Squad 2 to carry out defense operations within Kawada territory. To use them to insure the safety the people. That would solve the issue easily, but at the cost of other Captains viewing such actions as aggression expansion of Squad 2 into Kawada territory. Such views will only cause an uproar within the ranks and throughout Soul Society. There were many repercussions that Harle had to think over. But for now, "What Harle zeeks iz ze betterment of zhis land, but ze only questcion iz if you are all willing to help make zat change pozzible too?" she inquired to the massing group of people. Her eyes glinted to each and every one of them with stern conviction as she waited for the response to those that she sent messages to.

[Kento Waffles]

Bleach's best soundtrack

Elsewhere

The Central 46 headquarters were bursting with life. All 40 sages had gathered in the room of inquiry to debate the matter at hand. They were surveyed by their silent overseers, the Golden Six, who were the judges that eventually would come to vote on the issue. The room was made up of ascending amphitheater rows of seating, enough to actually house far more than merely the sages and judges. Each seat, a comfortable leather luxury, came with a nice desk the color of bourbon and made from fresh, forest scented wood. Aides and associates were present around each sage, hence the extra seating. At the very top was a special row reserved exclusively to silver thrones with golden tables, obviously for the judges, who oversaw it all.

Down at the bottom of the room was a huge circular flat platform which served as a stage for plaintiffs or those who had come to report or make a proposal. It was positioned as such that one was being looked down upon from all sides of the room, hundreds of pairs of eyes judging the inferior being below and intimidating them. Some powerful individuals did not care, but those of lesser merit were easily perturbed. It was not uncommon to see the Captain Commander himself standing and giving a report of grievances from the Thirteen Court Guard Squads. After all, even if one was a Captain, access here was restricted and violation of that was punishable by death.

Standing in the middle of the circle was another figure commonly seen making his case here, but in the name not of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads, but his Noble House Kuchiki. The 29th Head of the family and the current Captain of Squad 6, Sozen had by now cemented himself as the most famous Captain ever to emerge from the Thirteen Court Guard Squads. Brother of Onuya Kuchiki of the Senbonzakura. The Vizard Killer. A hero of both the Tridential Conflict and War of Angels. Known for being absolutely ruthless, the most powerful Captain, who had defeated even the Segunda and Primera Espada and was said to be as strong as the Captain Commander. With scarlet eyes, he looked around the room with a smile.

Standing near him, arguing a case against him, was another well known figure. Sozen Kuchiki's own son. Souza Kuchiki. Heir to the House, and said to be even more gifted at his young age than his father had been. Lieutenant of Squad 13 but rumored to already be on the level of a highly esteemed Captain. A Soul Reaper that was said did not know defeat. A young man who just fresh into his duties had been able to fight Kuroi Naito on par, and was even said to practice against Squad 2's elusive Captain Harle. He was here to argue against his father's point of view on the Kawadas. Having received a Hell butterfly at approximately the same time, both had called for an emergency session of Central 46. Now, they could plead their cases.

"They have been without a Head for far longer than is customary!" one of the Central 46's sages argued. "But can you really say that customary even applies anymore?" another asked. "After all, in just the past couple of generations, we watched two Great Noble Families rebel and one collapse to genocide." Another sage spoke up. "A genocide, I should point out, carried out by one of his..." And a finger was jabbed accusingly in Sozen's direction. Indeed, the Shiba Family had received total genocide as a result of the treacherous actions of Takashi Kuchiki, who had betrayed the Seireitei to join Sonken Kouhai. But, even at this accusation, Sozen did not appear at all angered.

"You are speaking in the past," Sozen said. "The political landscape is shifting. Perhaps word of mouth does not easily reach the ivory towers down here..." That subtle jab at the gaudy lifestyles the Central 46 managed to live, and the idea that they were cut off from knowing what the real issues were. "People are disillusioned, angry. Except on my land, people are suffering all throughout the Rukon Districts. Two wars have left us devastated and taxes higher than in ten thousand years. They no longer want fluffy excuses or political correctness. Complex bureaucracies have outlived themselves. It is time to seat a Leader for the Kawadas. By force if necessary. The people must know who is responsible. Who is accountable."

"And yet you would propose to absorb the Kawadas," Souza countered to his father. Sozen smirked. "My grandfather worked very closely with Jinbei Kawada. In their day, they were the best of friends. Over the years I grew to learn a great deal about him, as well as all of his sons. And, prior to their deaths, I grew very close to both Shade and Kenryoku Kawada. No one is more aware of the will of the main line and affairs of the Kawadas than I am. It is obvious that I should be the one to help them back to their feet. Naturally, they can separate from us once they have become strong once more." There came further dissent. "Would it not backfire the way it did for Omnitsukido?" Ryuu Kuchiki, one of the Six Judges asked.

"After years in Kawada hands, they have a hard earned loyalty to that name. Even repossessed by their original Shihoin founders, I have heard that a silent majority of them wish to return to Kawada rule. Would that not happen to the Kawadas under Kuchiki stewardship?" Sozen was about to respond, but was abruptly interrupted even further by his own son. "I would propose that we allow an audience between the invader in question, Captain Kaijin Quinn, and the Kawada Elder Council, monitored by the esteemed Central 46." Seemingly challenged by the political rival that his son had become, Sozen's smile dissipated into a frown.

"Harle has no experience for running a family like the Kawadas, much less the blood to convince their Elder Council to let her try." Sozen made the point, and several of the judges nodded their heads in agreement, as did many of the sages.. "Yet can we really allow the Kuchiki Family to grow that much more powerful by attaining Kawada resources?" Souza suddenly asked. "Though I wish the best for my family, how can we try to have even a semblance of fairness or justice if we give that much power to a single Noble House?" Souza's error at this time was in not realizing that there had been a time when Sozen Kuchiki had owned all of the land the other noble families, even the other Great Noble Families, lived on.

Back then, the many sages and judges had frequented lavish parties from all of these families on all of this land, and had grown used to certain assurances, favors, or discretion when on land owned by Sozen. To them, a return of Kawada land to Sozen's pocket actually seemed, in their selfish opinions, quite reasonable. Sozen owned two judges and was on good terms with two, for four total. He usually secured the majority he wanted when it came to votes. Souza, however, in preparation for Sozen's likely ownership of the judges, had come up with another solution. "What if we allow Harle to progress, and if she is successful, we use the obviously weakened state of the family as an excuse to instate Central 46 protection?"

Many of the judges knew what this meant. Central 46 would have practical ownership of the Kawada Family, including its resources and money. They could levy taxes in exchange for protection that would guarantee a personal profit to make of their pockets. Souza had stumbled upon a corrupt suggestion that they liked. Of course, this went with the assumption that Souza was not as cunning or ruthless as his father, and would not be able to pull influence away from them. Souza, as it was, likely had every intention of attempting to do so. Whispers were being told throughout the rafters of the Central 46 as all sages began to give long monologue opinions and the six Judges prepared to vote.

As the voting was coming underway, a new Hell butterfly would land on Souza's hand. Listening to the relay message, he motioned for one of his aides. "Tell me how the vote goes," Souza said. "I have business to attend to." As Souza walked out of the Central 46 chambers, the deliberation of the judges could be heard. Judge Amare seemed to be making some case that Noble Houses which fell should be divided up and the land merely absorbed by the Central 46. Clever, and probably for the best, but unlikely while dealing with Sozen's agenda. His father's voice in the background. "This decision will reflect on your courts for generations to come..." The Heir made it out of the compound, and, with a deep inhale and then a sigh, performed a flash step.

Now SHOKUGEKI

Kawada Grounds

The air was crisp, but cold. The Winter sun had begun to set at no later than fifteen past four, and now despite barely being a time for dinner to most, it was dusk. The very last wisps of now orange red sunlight were disappearing beneath the horizon, and the temperature was dropping dramatically. This did not stop the men from working. Harle had been told that many would consider it, and there would be those that wouldn't. Nothing was to be unanimous. Yet they would first need to see what assurances Harle could bring. There was only so much she could do with just words. For now, at best, they might let her pass, but they would not actively help her until she proved that she could and would help them.

It was in the blithering silence of the dark that a flash step emerged next to Harle to indicate the presence of someone new arriving. One of those whom she had called, the Lieutenant of Squad 13, Souza Kuchiki. "My apologies for making you wait, Captain," Souza said. "I was tied up in Central 46." Indeed, Seireitei and Central 46 were extremely far from these Kawada grounds. The travel time had not been short and the likely stamina consumption was probably not cheap either. That Souza had made it here in as few hours as he had indicated a Captain level's skill in movement and flash steps as it was. Golden eyes wandered to rest on Harle as Souza stood and faced her, examining her face as if she wore no makeup.

One of the men, an older gentleman, started to struggle with the large piece of metal that he was holding. Slipping, he began to fall to one knee as the metal slipped from hand. At once, Souza, without moving from place, twitched his fingers. Chains erupted forth from his sleeve and slid around the metal piece, holding it up suspended in the air for just long enough for the man to nod his thanks at Souza and pick it back up again. The chains retracted back into Souza's sleeve. So now Harle might be noticing... Souza's eyes were a different color from their last meeting. And his Zanpakuto had evidently changed a bit. Even now, he was still evolving drastically.

"Regarding your desire for help, I do have allies in the courts," Souza said, skipping formalities and small talk. "As well as an ally on the Kawada Elder Council. But I will not lend you any combative aid." That was a decisive thing that he said to her. Of course it made sense. For one, Souza couldn't face an entire Kawada army either. For two, it made no sense to use resources against one if he intended on challenging his father in future. But, most importantly, it was a part of his very strict moral code. Strategy aside, Souza adhered to his own personal set of rules as well as followed the law of Soul Society to the letter. He was unlike his father, who had no care at all for such rules.

"A takeover of the Kawadas cannot be bloodthirsty," Souza continued. "It must be clean, legal, and decisive. I will do what is in my power to help you socially and legally, but only if you can assure me that you will not seek violence. All of this must be done by voice and on paper. If you can agree to that, then I will give you my everything and help you." It was actually strange for Souza to be such a pacifist considering his vicious reputation. Either that, or in the months since Harle and Souza had met, he had matured and developed as well. Certainly, she had changed. Beyond the loss of a mentor, she had battled the mentor of her mentor and seen firsthand how strong he had been. And she had still watched an Arrancar easily destroy him and make it easier for her to kill him.

"Furthermore," Souza told her. "I am undecided as to what we should do regarding your battle against Jinbei Kawada. Is it wise to tell them that you killed him? Or wiser to pin it on Kuroi Naito, who gravely wounded him? I am not sure how the Elder Council would react to these two stories. Perhaps it is best left up to you when you meet with them." Souza did also say when, which indicated that he fully intended to get her into a meeting room with the Kawada's Elder Council. There was a long way to go. But, for now, Harle had to discuss with Souza, and then after that it appeared she had gained the right to move on further into Kawada land.

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

The call was answered. At least one of them was, but it was to be expected under the circumstances. For Harle to receive and quick a response as she did was short nothing but luck at this point. Time was of the essence as the men were restless on their arrangement. Few at the very least, while others didn't give another thought until the Squad Captain can uphold her end of the promise. Within the short lapse of time Souza Kuichiki appeared. Much to her relief her call had not gone upon deaf ears. Perhaps the Squad Six Lieutenant may show himself when it was most convenient for him. Maybe not. But a lass, some manner of progress when the Kuichiki Heir arrived on the scene. The Captain's restlessness was put to ease, and replaced with a glimmer of hope.

Looking at him a bit the young man had matured since their last meeting. His eyes shown a steeled resolve unlike before. The same could be said about his spiritual pressure. Seemingly undaunted to what was being attempted, at least from the woman's perspective. And though Harle saw potential in what could be accomplished, Souza remained as rational as ever. Straight arrow if she recalled some humans in the world of the living referred to such strict people. But that wasn't a bad trait, not to the Captain anyways. Of course, for their situation it was needed. When Harle believed that violence would have to be used to solve such an operation, another means opened to her. For when the Captain looked at the faces of the people on site, for what the land had become in the grip of the Kawadas, she could only imagine what remained hidden in the shadows. How much suffering had been done. The land itself emanated with the foul stench of hopelessness.

From the manner in which the Kuichiki Heir carried himself he made immediate haste from Central 46. A Council of Elders whose only souls thought of themselves. While they stood as judges and the true authority of Soul Society, she could not help to imagine the level of corruption loaming about them. Like all great courts, those who wield tremendous power, it was only a matter of time before they sought to use it for their own gains. Such was the nature of man to do so. The Court of Elders was no different from another other court that Harle saw in the World of the Living, even during her time living among them. Soul Society was far from perfect. Should its leaders give in to such demands of their own baser instincts, then those who they are in charge of follow suit. It was a never ending domino effect.

Harle head shook, removing the thoughts that were beyond her current objective. She will find a means to deal with them soon enough, but for now advancing to the chambers of the Kawada Elders was first. And from what Souza spoke of, he was more than willing to lend his assistance as best he could. Obviously, he wouldn't dedicate military strength to the cause, not that would accepted nor desire to use after seeing the condition in which the people reside in. After what Harle had seen, she couldn't bring herself to wage an aggressive attack on Kawada Lands. As a result, she turned to attacking in a different way. A method in which Souza was already keen in using. Harle agreed to the Heir's terms, but that wasn't the issue. No, the trouble concerned the death of the Elder Kawada, Jinbei.

The fact of his death was not widely known. Information seemed to be loose on the matter of what transpired in the Human world, concerning the escapees, didn't reach Soul Society. This meant that the facts were still being deciphered and pieced together bit by bit. Only those who were on the battlefield knew the tale, only they knew what transpired there. The fact that the infamous Arrancar, Kuroi Naito, injured the Kawada to the near point of death, allowed the Captain to deliver the killing blow herself. How would the Kawada Elders accept this information? The fact that the Arrancar weakened him, or the fact that Harle was the one who killed him. Either of the two proved to be unfavorable. Yet, at the very least the death of such a prestigious man as Jinbei Kawada would want to be recovered by the family. His body anyways, which remained the custody of Squad 2.

Further evidence of his death was the man's Zanpakuto. Though there are many similar to it, his blade was more distinguished. One that couldn't be mistaken for any other Zanpakuto. The blade alone would be decorated in a way that only a Kawada would have, unable to be mimicked by other forgers than the man himself. This trinket alone would provide some passage to the Main House, and if it did not, then his body would surely do. As for speaking of the circumstances leading to his death would be disclosed to the Elders themselves. "Harle believez zat telling zhem zat Harle killed ze Lord Kawada will be ze best course of accion. But before zat, Lord Kawada'z body will be ze key to bringing Harle to ze Elderz." A risky course of action indefinitely, but at the same time, more plossible without endangering the lives of everyone involved.

"Ze Kawada Lord rebelled against Zoul Society, in which on ze time of death Harle'z Squad took custody of ze body, only to bring it back to ze Kawada family." This tactic would insure that the body will be delivered to the residence unharmed. Furthermore, while the Kawada Lord remained in custody of the Gotei 13, it is the Squad's responsibility to insure its safe passage. No harm would be done unto the body, while at the same time the Kawadas who knew Jinbei and his importance to the family would not dare raise a hand against him, even in death. However, the Kawadas alone could simply accpet his body on the border and transport it as they have done so with Kenryoku Kawada. That was the issue. Though, this case was different.

"However, zince ze Kawada Lord took part in ze harm to ze World of ze Living, hiz involvement and plan to uze ze Kawada family to startz another war, which doze allow ze Squad to conduct un investigatcion. En zince Harle iz ze only one wiz zhis informacion, wiz you az un witness, wiz Kimiko Shihoin and ze Squad 11 Capitaine, zhis can be done." Yet, there was another issue. This involved Seireitei politics. This meant that Squad 6 would have to be involved. Unless, "Monsieur Kuichiki, iz it pozzible to conduct un investigatcion? Or would we need un representative of Squad 6 to be present too? Pozzibly ze Squad 6 Lieutenant, Monsieur Himitsu?" If this was successful, then Jinbei's body would remain in Harle's care as it is being delivered, while simultaneously allowed Harle to speak to the Kawada Council without restriction, due to being part of an internal investigation that was being overseen by a representative of a member of Squad 6. And a well known individual at that.

Altogether, the result will lead to something in which the Kawada family will hazardous to itself. Treason. Treason on a grand scale.

[Kento Waffles]

Souza appeared to take Harle's words into deep consideration. Her thought was to return Jinbei Kawada's body to its family. Indeed, he had been the patriarch that truly put them on the path of greatness. Had it not been for the innovations created by Jinbei Kawada, it was unlikely that the family would ever have gotten to a level similar to the Shihoin family, and the Shihoin rebellion would never have happened. That was how powerful and important Jinbei had been. Even a traitor in the name of Saeki Kuchiki at the end of his life, Jinbei was of great importance to them. There were likely many alive who missed the days of his leadership, and some that had found Shade and Kenryoku assets in that regard.

"Are you leaving out Kuroi's role so as to seem more powerful and thus worthy?" Souza asked Harle, his face indicating genuine curiosity. Because it was perhaps likely that Harle had been no match for Jinbei at all. Kuroi had been the one to push Bankai upon Jinbei and then destroy it. He had been the one to leave Jinbei so close to death that defeating him became possible even for one far less trained or experienced than himself. Still, were this fact to be revealed, then surely it would undermine Harle, as the Kawadas might accuse her of being some kind of a mooch off of another's work. Or, at the very least, they would accuse her of working with an Arrancar of Las Noches.

As to Harle's suggestion, Souza had much to say. "Unfortunately, Himitsu is not available right now," Souza informed Harle. "He is presently engaged in a battle for the Squad 7 Captaincy against Kimiko Shihoin." That fact sinking in should be of relevance to Harle. Squad 7 was the one in charge of police duties, meaning that any activities she undertook would be scrutinized by its Captain. Depending on which one it was who won out, what Harle could possibly make happen was different. It was also a matter of familial importance, though Harle might think less of this given her inexperience in the world of nobles. Holding positions of importance always benefited nobles and their families.

If Himitsu won, then that meant there was a second Kasumi'Oji Captain and one less Shihoin Captain, while if he lost, it maintained the existence of two major Shihoin Captains. Furthermore, Kimiko was the only Shihoin Captain that was officially part of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads. The other, Okami, was technically not part of this organization, as Omnitsukido was a separate entity of its own. Shihoin power would flicker greatly if Himitsu were to defeat Kimiko. The relationships between the families would all turn out differently depending on who won that battle. This wasn't even considering that Himitsu too was naive and inexperienced, and his Kasumi'Oji family would therefore be uncertain in its security.

"Jurisdiction for investigations of this sort falls exclusively to Squad 6 or 7," Souza replied to Harle's question. "Neither of us is capable. Yet we should not involve Squad 6. My father is possibly the most politically cunning Kuchiki Head to have ever lived. You do not want his involvement in this affair. You can gain nothing from him, but you can lose everything." Also a strange look into the differences between public opinions as well as rumors and stark reality. In the mythos of Soul Society, Sozen was known as a warm, kind-hearted, benevolent hero figure who had led the Seireitei to victory in two wars. In reality, he was a very shrewd politician and could not be trusted if nobles were involved and the Kuchikis had something to gain.

"It would be more prudent for you to simply meet with the Kawada Elder Council first. Once you hear what they have to say, we might know what to do next."

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

"Meeting wiz zhem iz ze goal, howeveh', zat task alone will be difficult. Harle knowz zat before reaching ze Kawada Council, zhere will be oppozition to hinder uz. Zat iz ze challenge ahead of uz." This was for certain. Harle was no idiot. For one of the Noble Houses to simply allow Harle to venture and speak to the Elders will be no simple feat. Undoubtedly, there will some form of resistance as to her journey to them. Those who will oppose, and those who will allow her to pass. It is only a matter of time as to when they will appear. And for the Captain to be able to push past them will be dependent on how well she can leave an impression. A reason why to surrender the Kawadas over to her.

"Zhough, Harle believez zat ze best option would to leave ze Arrancar's involvement in ze matter concerning Jinbei Kawada." the woman spoke pressing onward. Little success was to be made if they were to simply remain as they were. Though the challenges ahead were more than apparent, no good came from remaining in one place. If the workers around her were to support her, then she will need a means to guarantee her promises to them. As such, her own individual strength, and the strength of her connections to those around her were needed. This was short of her own work to be able to lead others, to inspire them as a Captain, but more importantly as family Head. That even meant being selective as to who she interacted with.

One of those individuals being Sozen Kuichiki. They all heard the stories, the rumors. A hero of sorts; of the previous wars and actions taken against the poverty that had been inflicted unto the people of Soul Society. Yet, despite these acts of heroism, they all carried with them a similar goal. Twas the same goal that Kenryoku hoped to achieve with every mission, with every action he committed to. What was unfortunate was the conflict that Squad 7 was undertaking. With the light of this new evidence, not much could be done. Harle was limited on support, thus connections. She had to make use with what she had. "Let uz prezz on and zee what iz beyond. Zhere is no telling what to do until we zee what we are up against."

The Captain pressed onward in hopes that the workers allowed them safe passage through. And although she can not say for certain what the future held for them, it certainly held promise. "Iz it possible to deliver un message to your contact on ze Kawada Council? Perhapz a means to enable aid for uz from ze inzide ze Kawada Landz?" Souza had much to offer, despite limitations placed on him. However, even those small amounts of resources could be turned into something vast when used in a manner. That was something that the Captain left to Souza.

[Kento Waffles]

OOC: To make up for the slow post, I'll deliver some excitement!

IC:

"I could arrange for us to at least get to the Kawada Manor, where you might be able to plead your case to be let inside for a meeting," Souza speculated. "However why they would want to hear you is another thing entirely. You may be a Captain, but you lack the Kawada Nobility's training, and you have no blood that could link you to them. Even if you were a student to Kenryoku Kawada, I am not sure that they would care to meet with you." The points Souza raised were quite valid ones. How, after all, could Harle get them to think she was worthy? Even if she had killed Jinbei Kawada, he had been old, and there was more to leading than being strong.

Suddenly, however, a powerful emerald light emanated from the ground. A wide circle of green light created a six point star within, encapsulating both Souza and Harle in an instant. There was a gasp from Souza, who clearly recognized this technique. "The Circle of Evil...?!" he exclaimed. The Circle of Evil, a technique Harle might have been briefed on as a Captain after the event that came to be known as the War of The Worst, which she had participated in against Jinbei Kawada. The Circle of Evil was a Bakudo style spell practiced by Saeki Kuchiki, and it was known to possess great power in exchange for becoming tainted by dark properties. Sozen Kuchiki had used it to defeat Jinbei Kawada once initially.

A gaunt sounding voice spliced through the air to target Harle and Souza as the workers all around the industrialized area backed away. "I had heard that a Captain wanted to take the family over... Yet I do not recognize your face." The man that had arrived was gray haired, with high cheekbones, and a very neat suit as his outfit. The suit was gray, and decorated by various emblems and awards. One emblem stood out in particular. That of the Kido Corps. This man had been very successful in the Kido Corps in his earlier years, it seemed. Physically, he appeared perhaps in his sixties, though he was in remarkably good shape and stood up very straight.

"Kiname Kawada," Souza explained to Harle. "A leading member of the Kawada Elder Council, director of their military affairs. Former Captain of the Kido Corps and presently a sage in the Central 46." The man stepped toward the edge of the Circle of Evil which now trapped both Souza and Harle. "Yes, Souza Kuchiki, I remember you as well. A pity you've yet to become as militarily competent as your father. I fear for the future of your family if you are to succeed him." Souza was notably biting disdain for this man of the Kawada Family. "Where did you learn the Circle of Evil?" Souza asked. "That's a forbidden Kuchiki technique..." His eyes narrowed accusingly.

"You seem not to recall who it was that was brought in to teach young Saeki Kuchiki how to use Kido to begin with," Kiname replied. "Or perhaps your father never told you? You are frequently left in the dark for important matters now that you've shown him your lack of capability, is that not so?" This was one of the few people that Harle would see who actively managed to get under Souza's skin and make him apparently nervous. Still, she was before a Kawada Elder Council member! This was an opportunity. He seemed to recognize her desire as well, for now his gray eyes focused on her. "And you, Captain of Squad 2..." he said. "You wish to negotiate a meeting, do you not? I must confess, though, I've never seen your face or even heard of you.. You don't seem to be of any notable accomplishment. I cannot say I quite fully see the point in speaking with you."

[Kaijin"Harle"Quinn]

Of what the young Kuichiki spoke of was true. For what reason would the Kawada wish to speak with the young Captain. The main issue was concerning Harle's reputation and upbringing. By no means did Harle posses an ounce of nobility in her genetic bloodline. Nor was she adopted by a family with the influence to play some importance in the realm of politics. The little knowledge she had was due to her own experience in leading as a Lieutenant, and as a Captain. Each Squad had their own responsibilities in which acted as a fragment to the whole that was Soul Society. A single fragment that operated for the greater good, a single cog that meshed with others to operate the machine. She mustered such experiences from the ground up, as a lowly peasant to a high ranking member of a military force. This she learned through the guidance of those around her to help formulate her own ideas as a leader. Therefore, she learned to take in the knowledge that she received.

In which case, "Monseiur, you spoke of coming from Zentral 46, yez? Could Harle azk az to what iz ze reazon fo z-?" Harle had been cut off. The Shinigami was consumed in the light of a technique that she only read about. Its emerald light reflected in the awe gaze of sapphire that was her eyes. It presented a nostalgic feeling, like as if she were fighting- it had to be. Souza spoke the very name in which she was formulating in her mind. Its influence painted the floor beneath the pair, encasing them under the forbidden spell of the Kuichiki family. However, it was the caster that made it all the more weary for the two. A leading member of the Kawada Elder's and a former member of the Kido Corps. Kiname Kawada, a former Captain, and an individual in which she must persuade in order to push further towards the goal.

With Souza assisting her the goal came closer into view, however, with a member of the Kawada Council within their presence, came another obstacle in which Harle had to overcome. And she had to do so under the Kuichiki Heir's conditions. Of what the reports spoke of seemed to be holding to the truth. Once more it returned to the choices in which those in power decided. Saeki Kuichiki, Jinbei Kawada, Hiroshi Shihoin.... so many that held respectable positions, who fell due to their own power, and their commit to their family. Blinded by their fear and distrust of others. They slowly fell into their own darkness. Their sense of devotion became corrupt, possibly due to the time that coursed around them. War did that to people.

The elder man took to good gander at Harle. Their eyes met from the between the barrier that split them apart. Souza and Kiname traded words, hinting at what the Captain feared. Harle answered, "It iz true zat Harle iz not az distinguished zan ze otherz, nor iz she a noble. But, Harle iz ze only one zat ztandz between ze you and ze otherz zat will break ze Kawadaz apart." Harle turned to Souza, to continue on with what he mentioned before. Of Central 46. "Monsieur Souza, what waz ze reazon zat you were at ze Central 46?" She prayed it was what she was thinking about. Or at least some evidence to what she suspected it to be. That was one matter. Another matter was..

"If not Harle zen who would you speak to? Ze Kuichikis, ze Kasumi'oji's, oh perhapz ze Shihions? Who among ze Kawadaz iz able to ztop what iz about to happen to ze family? Oh, better yet, who among ze Kawadaz would have ztopped Monsieur Jinbei from escaping? Or, returning back to ze Zoul Zociety." With Harle's reports and testimony, if presented to the Captain Commander and to the other Squads, the Kawada Household would terrorized with numerous interrogations and reviews. Not to mention that their Household would be torn apart into individual lands, slowly being devoured by the other Nobles. All that they wish to protect, whether it be family or their own profits, it will be taken away.

"Not only zat, but if zhiz technique iz forbidden, zen otherz will know of it by now. Zhiz presence zat it emitz will be known by zhose wiz strong zenses. Especially if zhey are wiz ze Kuichiki family. Ovahall, ze Kawada family haz no ztand wiz Zoul Zociety no more." The Kawada Family really had no official standing with the Seireitei. No Captains, or leadership role within the Gotei 13. This was an opportunity for other parties to take pieces away from their family. Harle presented a means to keep their standing without the risk of attacks from other Households. "But, you are right zat Harle iz not az accomplished as ze other Capitaines, yet, at least she iz capable of puzhing ze Kawadaz in ze direction zat zhey need to be pushed."

[Kento Waffles]

Kiname haughtily answered Harle's question for Souza. "He was participating in a hearing called by his father," Kiname declared. "As to whether or not the Kuchikis will absorb and rehabilitate the Kawada name." The hearing that Sozen Kuchiki took before the Central 46 demanding that they be given free reign to restore the Kawadas. Of course, any noble family should fear such a thing. Not only would it make the Kuchikis that much more powerful, but the Kawadas would then go free having been remodeled in a Kuchiki image, an eternally loyal ally with tremendous power to exert against the others. Such a thing had almost happened during the era of Ginrei Kuchiki as it was.

The former Kido Corps Captain continued to gaze down as Harle spoke, describing to him that the Kawadas had no standing and thus no other options. Yet the look her gave her was not unlike what Jinbei had done. She was being looked at as an inferior. As if she knew nothing and could accomplish nothing. The only Kawada she had yet encountered that had not given her this look was, of course, Kenryoku himself. He had seen some value in her, despite his near feverish obsession with the need to have Kawada blood in order to be considered a "superior specimen." Kiname did not seem to care much for such things. He, like most of the others, desired blood as key.

"You speak as if we've no options," Kiname said. "Yet Sozen Kuchiki is the most brilliant military mind of his time. And you bring with you neither an adequate military background nor the knowledge of a Noble. You don't know our history, our tactics, or our structure. Given you serve in Squad 2 I would find it likely that you don't know much about the history or political policies of the Soul Society either." His voice was sharp like a ballet instructor, as if he was whipping her with every sentence about what she did and didn't know. "Yet what if the Golden Six decide to place your family under Central 46 command?" Souza asked of Kiname, and also thus informing Harle that that was another option that had been on the table.

"Then the petulant old fools will attempt to benefit themselves with our wealth while we rebuild under their very noses," Kiname asserted. "It is as I speculated the first time we met, I'm afraid. You simply do not have the mind of a commander. The apple fell quite far from the tree, as it were." Kiname seemed very intent on political and military realities. A sort of strangely fascist realist, he did not seem impressed by either Souza or by Harle. It was evident in fact that despite Souza's standing in the world of politics and nobles, Kiname did not respect him, constantly reminding him that he was nothing compared to his own father.

And as for Harle herself... "I must say, Captain Quinn, you simply do not seem to comprehend the dynamics of the world of nobility. It is not a matter of proclaiming yourself Head and fixing things. You think only in simple terms, yet the problem is anything but. You are naive." Kiname was very hard on her as she spoke, but perhaps she might from his words come to understand his point of view. Nothing was easy. There were relations to make, paperwork to fill out. Knowledge to be studied. Strategic cunning was needed. And in his admiration of Sozen Kuchiki's capability, Kiname was willing to let his family be swallowed by their rival if it meant becoming more capable in the future, even if it meant some degree of servitude.

"The Kasumi'Oji Family thought as you do when they instated Himitsu and July, yet the idealism of the dual heads has cost them all of their assets. They are now a stagnant, failing enterprise, and in a month when it comes time to pay their financial dues, they will find themselves devastated by the economy and then at the mercy of bureaucracies." Kiname's harshness was nothing new, but it was sharper. Jinbei had simply said Harle was too weak, and was of non-blood. But Kiname was very meticulous. Detail-oriented. He didn't want pretty words or hope, but rather wanted Harle to speak to him of fine details for plans. Not just "the right direction," but of pragmatic ideals. He wanted to see how deeply she had thought about any of this.

DM Hint: Any more "social" skills via SKP or written into Harle's personality will be of greater assistance than any battle ability would be. Think of this like a puzzle for Harle to solve.