The Loyalty Of A Dragon (JT Shikihitsuko Isayama, Guerrero)

[Guerrero Manipuladora]

It was another dark night within the sandy deserts of Hueco Mundo. However, in the darkness there roamed a figure in the sands on the quest of evolution. Guerrero Manipuladora, Winged Serpent of the sands has now completely recovered from the wounds that she had sustained in the world of the living. During her brief period of doing nothing but consuming and resting in Hueco Mundo, she found herself becoming decently stronger over time. The Arrancar were fascinating creatures and they seemed to be indeed interested in strengthening and bolstering their ranks. Zegram the Fraccion of the Arrancar had taken the time and liberty to explain to her what the Arrancar were, but yet he has not yet killed the “Demon Of The Sands” as she liked to call him. The snake was silent as her green eyes scanned the landscape of the area. Her tongue flickered in sense of danger and or prey for her...and soon she had felt it. There was a presence up ahead of her. It was approaching her vicinity. It was now time to use her skills in stealth to hide herself.

There was once a time where the dragon had detested being what she was...and sought out desperately the need to be human. As a result, she refused to eat human beings and such. However, she now accepts that she is what she is...and in order to gain her human form that she must first lose her humanity. Eating disgusting hollows was one of the struggles she still had, but it wasn’t as if she was bold enough to go into the world of the living and fight those dreadful Quincy or Shinigami again. In Hueco Mundo, she had the solace that the only other beings she would be fighting were other Hollows. True, she had to be ever vigilant and avoid hollows more powerful than her, but there will come a time where she reaches the top of the chain. So...now to catch her next meal. Now was the time for her to practice the skills of the hunt.

Folding her black wings upon herself, she blended in with the darkness, perhaps looking like a boulder. The Dragon had left her wings partially open so that she may see the outside in front of her. She could feel the vibrations coming...her sense of smell told her that her target was getting increasingly closer. Soon enough, a slow lumbering giant had come with a large mask on his face. He lumbered slowly as he sniffed the air, looking left and right in morbid curiosity. "I smell meat...Where are you little meat?" In this environment and in the pitch darkness of night, Guerrero had the advantage of stealth on her side. His sight was pitiful, but apparently his sense of smell was keen. The giant had stepped left and right, looking before glaring.

"Must have been my imagination." The beast had a horned mask with long teeth that was akin to the face of a human skull. He had taken the liberty to slowly walk past, lumbering footsteps and then Guerrero had unfolded her wings to attack. Shooting outward, she had leaped onto the back of this creature as she had bit her sharp fangs and sharp teeth into his throat, sinking them deep inside as then...she vomited her acidic stomach substance to enter the wound. "Grraaaah! Treachery!" The giant had grasped her body before pulling her off, ripping his throat wide open as she was tossed open. "RAAAGH!" The giant had fell onto his knees as blood dripped in copious amounts from his now open wound.

Guerrero had been tossed to the sands, but by flapping her wings, she had been capable of flight to soften her impact. The giant had hissed in agony as the acid Guerrero delivered would do it's work...delivering horrible pains within himself. "This is the end for you beast. Now die!" She had used her relatively impressive speed as the giant coughed and feebly raised his giant arm to attack her. As it slammed down, the feminine snake had sidestepped as the beast had growled. Rushing forward once more, she had swung her tail at the skull of this gargantuan. Spikes had appeared on her tail much like a mace now...as it pierced through with a gasp from the beast. The Adjuchas had been vanquished as it laid still. It was then that she had taken the liberty to devour...feast. How disgusting the taste was as she took in the taste of silty blood...and chunks of flesh.

However, as she ate she soon saw that there was another hollow in the distance. It had howled in pained agony as it sought to fill itself on the remnants of the creature she was eating. It landed in reckless abandon to devour the meal and it had taken in a single bite. However, Guerrero had wrapped her tail around it's head...before shooting her spikes from her tail yet again to finish it. The winged Hollow had also fell as this beast, she swallowed whole. What a cruel existence this was in this vast emptiness she called home. The inner emptiness she felt was becoming more and more filled over time. She could feel it. However, it was still far from being completely filled. She finished eating the giant...and then rested as to let herself digest. She had used a power...to gain the spiritual energy remnants of what she devours completely. She broke down the spiritual make up of the corpse in her body as it refilled her own reserves.

She would rest as her spiritual energy would bolster and recover from her usage of her acid and her spiked tail. However, she was not aware that she had a spectator. The sun would begin to rise over the horizon...and she felt a sense of inner peace within herself. "How beautiful the sun is in this place of death. If only I could be human once again...would this be utterly perfect." She took a deep breath before she would feel the fatigue and heaviness within her body come to a rest. Now she was free to move forward yet again. She had to stay on the move or else her enemies would come and hunt her down. She planned on eventually joining the individuals known as the Arrancars in their faction of Las Noches. They were the most powerful, and most likely to be able to help her on the road to humanity.

She walked ahead...past the metal trees to find a clearing with sunlight shining down. It was peaceful and what seemed to be a wonderful place to rest. The only sounds that she could hear commonly at this moment was the stumbling of the Gillians, the howls of other Hollows in the distance, and death. She laid there in the meditation spot...reminiscing of her human existence. She then realized. If and when she turned human, what would she do? What would be her purpose and cause once she gains back her former form? That thought troubled her as she never thought that far. What purpose would she have in the centuries to come? She had to find out. Listening for the sounds of prey, she would stay quiet.

She was once a woman who lived in the land of France. How she remembered the times of being courted, balls, and being able to live within the luxury of nobility. That was long behind her though as she no longer cared for such trivial activities. Now after centuries of devouring, she cared only for her self preservation and fighting to live another day. That was what being a Hollow was mostly about in her circumstance. She found that Hollows were not loyal to one another and so they would often kill each other when the time was appropriate to do so. She therefore hunted alone and ran from what she saw as danger. She feared death...and so she was a cautious Hollow. She had much to fear.

She was never in good relations with Shinigami, the Quincy, nor any other race despite the fact that she had tried her best to describe herself as peaceful. She did not want to eat humans and had only eaten Hollows for a time to maintain her sanity and to not revert into a beast like mentality. However, she realized her efforts were futile as she would always be treated like a monster despite her efforts to state she wanted to be human. She was lonely also as there was nothing for her in the existence. What she needed now was a purpose in order to make her life whole even more so than fighting for her evolution. She needed a drive. The emerald eyes had looked on ahead as she slowly stood on all fours to scratch behind her ears.

She had made it to the Adjuchas stage by herself and that was something that was a noteworthy achievement seeing she hunted alone and only by herself. What with struggling to survive from everything that wanted to kill her, she had experience of what combat was like. Perhaps one of those Arrancar Espada could help her. Zegram was only able to help so much from the fact that he was an inferior. He was but only a Fraccion that served under a master. However...perhaps it would be wiser to ally herself underneath the guidance of a more powerful force. The quest of evolution to a Vasto Lorde was what she sought. Perhaps...a few Espada are ones that have reached that level of power. However, how would she go about finding one? She reminisced further of her experience as she remembered what she once was.

She was once a lowly snake that crawled along the sands, struggling to survive in the harsh world. She laid low...striking the weak and wounded in order to progress to the next stages. However...everything changed when she became the Gillian. A hulk of limited intelligence as she feasted upon the other Gillian and weaker Hollows. The battle for evolution...and then finally when she had become an Adjuchas finally able to stabilize her personality and mind as her own. She still had a ways to go, but she was reaching that final point. How many more beings would she have to eat to become that level of power again? How much longer?! Looking ahead of her, her senses saw something was moving camouflaged in the sands. She opened her mouth and fired a red Bala out onto the beast, and then it laid unmoving as she quickly went in to devour the hiding Hollow.

It was a large lizard of some sort that she did not recognize. However, she didn't care as she began to eat once more, digging her teeth into the meal...and holding it's body to her face. She hungered...she wanted more. She was always hungry nowadays. It seemed to be common for a Hollow to be constantly hungering for more to fill that emptiness. The more she thought, the more hungry she became. It was about time she was to move again anyways. The Desert Demon might find her again if she were to stay too long. She new personally she did not want that to happen. It would surely be the death of her. He possessed many subordinates that acted as his eyes and ears, and so she would prepare to head off once again.

SPOILER: Click to show

Paragraphs for SP
1 Class 7 Hollow Devoured (Lizard)
1 Class 4 Hollow Devoured (Gargantuan)
1 Class 7 Hollow Devoured (Winged Beast)

[Shikitsuhiko Isayama]

OOC: Training for CTP

Shikitsuhiko casually walked through the forest, surrounded by shadows and sand. The eyes of hungry hollows peered at him from beyond the shadows, wishing they could best such a foe. His attire was indication of his rank. He was an arrancar affiliated with Las Noches, but his spiritual pressure was underwhelming in this moment. He has concealed it so well that most would not know he was an Espada. Most of these hollows dwelled in the shadows and seldom concerned themselves with matters relevant to Las Noches. He was certainly an outcast among them. Their hunger and lust for power was something he remember, and yet, it never truly characterized him fully. 

As he traversed the menos forest, the screams and howls of others echoes through the cavernous playground. The forest concealed the greusome acts committed by other hollows. His presence had a dulling effect. The hollows seemed to scurry away and hide, while others merely watched from a safe distance. He had no intention of killing any hollows, unless they provoked him. He wasn't interested in meaningless slaughter and received no gratification from lording his position over others. Intimidation and grandstanding were trivial pursuits. In fact, he wanted the hollows to prosper and grow, and hoped to find an alternative for cannibalism. Until then, he would continue to search for a way to realize his vision. That wasn't his reason for visiting the menos forest, however. 

His goal at the moment was entirely different, both in scope and nature. He was investigating some unsettling information he had acquired almost haphazardly. Over the course of his time as an Espada, his second in command, Lagos, had given him almost no reason for concern. Recently, however, she had become more vocal about her dissatisfaction with Las Noches. Normally, he'd agree as he found the majority of Las Noches arrancar to be impatient and deceitful. While her phrasing and sentiment wasn't specific, it worried him. His suspicion had slowly increased in size, but he said nothing. He was the type of person who examined evidence carefully and evaluated situations thoroughly. If there happened to be only tenuous links, he would actively search for stronger corroborating evidence. This led him to the menos forest.

It was a curious place to go hunting for clues, but it turns out that arrancar hold up here. And what better place to acquire potentially strong allies than here, the place where hollows mature and evolve. It would be a good place to find powerful adjuchas and the rarer vasto lorde. He couldn't help but find himself feeling restless and distressed by the current situation. Unfortunately, he was not the type to dismiss things so quickly. Something about the current circumstance felt plausible and warranted further investigation. He hoped to find nothing, to have wasted his time. It was the more preferable outcome. So far he had found clues that didn't quite seem to fit together. Clearly he was not seeing something, which would allow him to further his progress.

Shikitsuhiko abruptly stopped and let his body take in the information around him. The vibrations in the ground and air spoke to him. The whispers and ruffling of sand painted a clear picture. "Burrow faster." A voice whispered, attempting to conceal its location. That voice. He was warned of its distinctive quality. He suddenly vanished and appeared within the shadows, hovering over two adjuchas and an arrancar. What shameful behavior. They could not hide from him, even in shroud of darkness. The two adjuchas abruptly halted their furious digging, peering behind them. The arrancar leapt back, and in doing so knocked over the two hollows. The arrancar was the one with the distinctive voice. That much was clear when he spoke. "I heard you were asking about me." His voice hummed, like a vibrating engine. It also had an oddly high pitch for its size. It was a rather husky arrancar, though Shikitsuhiko's height allowed him to tower over it. 

"You were asking questions. Looking for things. I don't know why. What do you want?" Shikitsuhiko said nothing. He merely stood among the shadows and waited. His patience was a particular strength, but also something that unnerved those around him. In this moment of silence, Shikitsuhiko wondered how such a sad creature was able to elude him for this long. It hadn't been very long, but long enough for Shikitsuhiko to question the situation. Someone was clearly protecting him, tipping him off. But who? Despite Shikitsuhiko's disinterest in pointless slaughter, he was merciless with those he had questioned so far. He eliminated them, so to tie up loose ends. 

Shikitsuhiko approached the plump arrancar as he continued to question him anxiously, his voice becoming higher and more shrill. He knocked the two adjuchas off to the side as he grabbed the arrancar by the throat. "I want this process to proceed as smoothly as possible, so I will ask each question only once. If I have to repeat myself, I will start breaking parts of your body. First question. How were you aware that I was searching for your whereabouts?" The arrancar appeared to squeak as he meekly responded. "I...I...I was told by Koh. He told me you were asking questions of others and I assumed I would be next." His body quivered in fear. "Koh is dead, so this must have been before I confronted him. He told me of a secret group, one that hides within plain site of Las Noches. What do you know of this?" 

Shikitsuhiko's voice was steady and calm as he asked questions, but this did not calm the fears of the arrancar. "Yeah, yeah....he, ugh, yeah. Well, he is right. There are a number of groups, I guess. You know...you have to be more specific. Not everyone is entirely on board with Kouhai, I mean. There is lots of talk. Talks of rebe...." A loud crack echoed through the caves as the shrill voice yelped in pain. Shikitsuhiko had broken three of his fingers with a quick motion. They dangled off his hand as he pleaded. He was a sorry excuse for an arrancar. He didn't get this far in his evolution using willpower and strength. He was a trickster. There was nothing respectable about him. Shikitsuhiko had clearly seen through his guise. 

"You're evading the question. I'm not concerned with other fictitious groups. I'm speaking of the one he, and I suspect you, are affiliated with. Admittedly, I question your involvement in the group. From what I have since learned, and witnessing in this moment, you don't seem like the type to be recruited. Regardless, I want to know the answer to my question. Now." He said with a stern tone. The arrancar yelped one last time before inhaling deeply. "I don't know their name. They are forming a rebellion, one that is intended to overthrow both the espada and kouhai. Some say their leader hunts down powerful hollows and grooms them for battle, feeding them so they can evolve and become arrancar. They are in positions within Las Noches and granted authority by Kouhai, but they don't see him as a leader. Some say there are at least 20 arrancar in this group, far more than the espada. They want him dead, and all those that follow him. Like YOU!" 

Shikitsuhiko tossed him to the side and placed his foot on his neck and pressed him against the sand. "You speak of treason, but at least you're being truthful. Who is leading this rebellion? Someone outside of Las Noches or someone within?" He pressed his foot down onto his throat, pressuring him into talking. "I don't know. I haven't been recruited. Whoever it was..." He released him and turned around. "Whoever it was didn't acknowledge you as being worthy of membership and so you sneak around like the coward you are, hoping to earn their favor with misdeeds. How disgraceful." He turned and slammed his foot into his head, crushing his mask and sending his body into a nearby wall. Blood oozed from his head, as it was cracked open like a watermelon. The other two hollows attempted to scurry off, but he swiftly appeared between them and slammed their heads into the sand and snapped their necks. 

"You're only good for one thing, a meal. It makes sense why you were not recruited, though it does makes things less convenient for me." Something swiftly slithered through the sand, which caught Shikitsuhiko's attention. "You waited patiently, so you might as well dine on these three. This is your lucky day. The opportunity to consume an arrancar is less common for young hollows like yourself. Though, do be careful with the arrancar. You wouldn't want his filthy soul to corrupt your own." Clearly he was jesting, though his tone was rather serious. He seldom joked and when he did, it never quite seemed like something you'd want to laugh at. This situation was no different. 

He found himself intrigued by this hollow. It didn't seem as frightened of him, but perhaps it was too unintelligent and too lost in hunger to assess danger properly. He felt its body slither by as it went to consume the hollows behind him. He began to walk away, but hesitated. "You do not appear to fear me like the others. You do no cower in the shadows." He wondered what the hollow would say in return, an whether its words would carry any significance. He had met plenty of mindless hollows in his time. Even hollows who successfully consumed souls were not always gifted with higher intelligence. Perhaps this was yet another one. While the menos forest was home to many hollows, it was also home to powerful ones, too. He wondered if this creature could survive in such a place, especially if it did not appear to fear.


(2) class four adjuchas killed
(1) class four arrancar

[Guerrero Manipuladora]

As Guerrero continued her travels outward into the sands, she soon felt something. She felt power and danger up ahead...and so reverting to what was her snake form, she slithered along the sands, burrowing underneath it and using her stealth to approach to see there were two Espada as well as two Adjuchas in the distance. She looked on at the interrogation...and honestly she paid no mind to the situation as death was so common that it was disinteresting. What she WAS interested in though was the plethora of corpses that would be left behind. She watched the interrogation of this order...and she slowly slithered through to stop when she was noticed and sensed by this powerful Arrancar. She was informed that since she was patient, he would allow her to devour the three dead by his feet and she then proceeded to do just that.

The Hollows, she tore into and taste utter disgust as her face twisted into something of disdain despite her mask being tough to move in such a manner. Her mask was one of a serpent but was horned and with six holes on either side underneath each eye. However...she looked to the final corpse. It was the Arrancar...the first Arrancar she would ever eat. She looked interested at the corpse and she smelled it. It was far more spiritually rich than anything she’s ever eaten. Opening her mouth, she had instead put this corpse whole into her body and swallowed it to use her power Whole yet again to get the most sustenance out of this creation. She had swallowed before looking to the powerful Arrancar Shikihitsuko whilst making eye contact.

He said that she did not fear him seemingly and that she did not cower in the shadows like the other Hollows. Guerrero had in a calm and light manner had spoken. “I do not fear because I do not speak rashly. I listen. I follow.” There was silence for a moment as she felt her food digesting in her strong stomach acids. “I thank you for allowing me to eat Monsieur.” There was another brief call of silence as the serpent would sprout legs so that she may stand on all fours. She tilted her head looking at Shikihitsuko to see that his eyes were not quite...normal based on what she analyzed. She then realized that he had attained a sight beyond sight as she nodded internally. He was blind...but had found another way to see and his other senses were heightened as a result.

“My name is Guerrero Manipuladora. It is a pleasure to meet you. May I ask what your name is sir?” The dragon Adjuchas was curious on who he was. Also...for some reason, she had a feeling that she knew at least a little bit on who Shikihitsuko was looking for. “I had overheard your conversation, and I believe I know who may tell you who the leader of this rebellion is. There is an Adjuchas whom is called the Demon of the Sands. Rumors have said that an Arrancar woman feeds him and his followers to make him strong. He has followers and he kills many who do not follow him. Rumors say that he is close to reaching the level of Vasto Lorde. However, he has no love for Shinigami.” Guerrero remained silent as she heard something...yes. Something sneaking behind her.

She could hear the light footsteps, and her animal senses told her to react. Using her tail, the tip would suddenly pulse as several spikes would burst from it as it would shoot outward as far as it could reach before piercing something through entirely with a wet squish. Against the tail, there lied a humanoid fellow with bones for arms and a white mask adorning it's face. Guerrero had stuck her tongue out as to sense further danger before swallowing this creature and winced again in seeming disgust. How detestable this was. However...she had the sensation that these two were being watched. She could feel the presence of the Hollows looking around them...and then she could see a red glow in the distance.

A Bala would be fired and it would twist within the air as her instincts made her act. Using her spiked tail, she would swing it and slam it against the red bullet in a clash of strength as Guerero's expression seemed incredibly calm. She had faced situations and death so often that she no longer feared such a trivial thing anymore. Her tail would struggle back and forth...in a clash with this Bala and then there were three individuals that came from the shadows. "Snake. You've said too much. You must now die..." Guerrero had taken this moment to swing the tail's momentum to swing the projectile at one of the Adjuchas as she growled with her sharp fangs and layers of teeth revealed. "You may try. Although I am no easy quarry."

One of the Adjuchas had taken the liberty to step forward with an arm covered in a crystalline appearance before deflecting that Bala into the air with relative ease as it exploded. Guerrero's tail had released a bit of steam as her spikes would retreat into the limb of which it came from. Guerrero stepped backwards as the three Hollow would step forward in an attempt to surround her. "I assume you will not be helping her Arrancar. She is our prey and none of your business." Guerrero had stepped further back as she unfurled her now healed wings as she seemed incredibly tense. These odds were not in her favor as her hated enemies were now approaching her. She did not believe the Arrancar was going to help her on a whim, and so she had to outsmart and overpower these enemies in front of her.

One Adjuchas was easy enough. Two was hard...but three was a challenge that she dare not face without caution or preparation. She decided to change strategies as she suddenly seemed to morph again to switch into a bipedal stance with her sharp claws now pointed outward. "I will kill her and she will be my prey. You two stay out of this." Silence as this Hollow which was mostly humanoid but incredibly muscular had charged forward in anger and aggression. They would clash their arms together in a clash as Guerrero had used her tail to wrap around her foes left ankle. "You are a fool and you will die here. Become part of me."

Guerrero's eyes took a feral change as she made the thorns appear from her tail to pierce through the Adjuchas rival's ankle and there was a cry of pain before her enemy extended forward and bit deeply into her shoulder. There was a cry of anguish on both sides before she too sank her fangs down into her foe's neck although they were juxtaposing. Soon, Guerrero seemed to vomit as there was the hissing burn of flesh...but then her enemy's mouth would glow red as now both sides were in miserable agony. "That show off. Pathetic..." What advantages did Guerrero have at this moment that she could exploit? She thought briefly through the pain...and she soon had an answer.

She had twisted her head more...and soon one of her horns would pierce straight through the mask of her opponent near the eye as there was a howl of pain. Her acid was already doing it's work as her enemy was getting weaker and the skin was melting. However, her skin was bit and nearly cauterized. Now that the fangs were released, she had rammed her head further inside as the brain was pierced and she too released a bestial cry out into the air as she pulled her head out in front of the corpse to open her mouth and shoot a Cero...charging for a mere moment as she shot out at one of the Adjuchas in which they both avoided it with relative ease. "I think I'll finish her and eat them both. Hehehehahaha...HAHAHA!"

There was a brief pause as the bold Hollow had been stabbed through the back of the head by a scythe like hand. The last Hollow, the one that had remained silent the whole time had stepped forward. "I will kill you and eat all four of you. You all talk too much." Silence as the Hollow's mask would then split in half to reveal a black mass of tentacles and abomination that Shikihitsuko would be unable to see. "Pandora's Box." There would be the sound of screeching as the beast slowly stepped forward as Guerrero was not scared...much anyways. "You betray your own kind. You fight with no honor either. You shall die today like a coward!" Then...as if teasing her, the Hollow replied. "You certainly may try."

This was the final opponent and Guerrero was generally strong and had cunning to face her foes instead of running and retreating. Guerrero had stepped backwards as she did not know the nature of the power that her enemy possessed. Swinging her tail, she had released a dozen scale projectiles shaped like large knives as her foe had seemingly vanished into darkness, phasing between each scale. "I shall make you part of me...and we shall feast on your bones. That Arrancar Ungere has fed me to be beyond your power or any other Adjuchas for that matter." Firing a Bala in that direction...the Bala was sucked into his vast emptiness of a face as then he fired sixteen dark tendrils for Guerrero's direction. She was cornered. This wasn't a good situation.

SPOILER: Click to show

3 [Class 4 Hollow Devoured]
1 [Class 4 Arrancar Devoured]

[Shikitsuhiko Isayama]

"My name is not important. Enjoy this gift." He turned an began to walk away, but it appeared the hollow was not yet finished with him. "I had overheard your conversation, and I believe I know who may tell you who the leader of this rebellion is." Shikitsuhiko immediately went still and listened closely. It appeared this hollow was not merely a bystander fortunate enough to gain a free meal. She possessed valuable information and was willing to share this with him. His passive nature had served him well in this instance. "Demon of the sand....Arrancar woman." These segments of Guerrero's words piqued his interest.  He turned to face her, though he could clearly see that something was quickly converging on their location.

"You are being hunted." He said with a cold tone. There was a moment of silence before a number of hollows showed up. She immediately began to scuffled with her foes, but Shikitsuhiko did not move from his position. Despite lacking sight, he could see, hear, and feel everything that was going on. These hollow had come at the most importune time, but such was life as a hollow. It was never safe among the sands of Hueco Mundo. There was danger lurking around every corner and this proved just that. Although, there seemed to be more to this attack than mere coincidence. She she more, much more, and therefore he couldn't allow her to be killed. Normally, he wouldn't bother himself with the affairs of hollows. This situation was different.

He observed as she struggled against her opponents. They were so brazen, especially in addressing him. They clearly were unaware of who he was. What did they think of him, an arrancar, traipsing around the menos forest? Truthfully, he didn't care. He was more concerned with completely his objectives and the moment this hollow proved useful she became an object worth preserving. He suddenly appeared in front of Guerrero, completely bypassing her and the other hollow's senses. The tendrils were oozing blood as their remains wriggled in the sand beneath their feet. He had severed the hollow's tendrils so quickly that neither were able to see him deliver the strike. He approached the hollow as it screamed at him, cursing at him for his interference. His words did not matter. They were not even worth perceiving. 

The only thing he heard was "Ungere." That name was unmistakable. He had never forgotten, even after all these years. He had saved Ungere, told him to leave, so he, too, would not be captured by the Shinigami who ended up experimenting on Shikitsuhiko. The name resonated in his mind, and he wondered how this hollow knew him. He wondered where he was. In a flash he pinned the hollow against a stone wall an slid his fingers into his flesh, as though they were blades. "Tell me how you know of Ungere?" He demanded. "He promised me power. He would provide me with powerful meals so I could grow stronger and help out." Suddenly a huge dart slammed into his head causing him to convulse. Shikitsuhiko immediately dropped him and vanished. He appeared beside Guerrero with a petite hollow by the neck. She looked like a cactus fused with an ant. 

He gripped her by the neck as her needled attempted to pierce him. "Such tactics are futile. You killed him so he would not tell me anything. Now you're going to reveal what I desired from him, otherwise I will begin slicing off pieces of your body." He was becoming tired of these games. He had not expected to have Ungere's named uttered by such a loathsome hollow. It all seemed so bizarre. This was someone he knew long ago and suspected was long sense consumed by another hollow. He had never discovered him as an Arrancar within Las Noches, but Ungere had also never sought him out. Surely he would recognize his name and his new title. It would surely be the case if he was indeed a member of this shadow organization. The one supporting the treasonous plan to overthrow Las Noches. 

What were the odds that someone he knew so long ago would be involved in such a thing? One might argue it was coincidence, and nothing more. Coincidence is the word an individual uses when we can't see the levers and pulleys.
He didn't believe in such things; He knew better.  It was unfortunate circumstances to here that named uttered after so many years only for it to be associated with a treasonous organization intended on usurping power. Even though he found this angering, he remained calm. There was not even the slightest hint of agitation in his tone. "Ungere is clearly a high-ranking member and feeds lower class hollows in order to improve their numbers. What role do you play?" He gripped her throat tighter. "I was merely sent here to keep track of Mata. He tends to talk too much." 

"I see. Where is Ungere located?" She stared at him with a frightened look. "I can't." She said. "Oh, you will. If you don't, you will know true suffering." Apparently his words had convinced her to talk. She began to sing like a bird, revealing Ungere's location. "He is in the underground caves a mile from here. At least, that is where we meet with him. He never reveals where he resides or where the The Eyes meet." Shikitsuhiko tossed her on the ground. "The Eyes. What a silly title as there is no gaze stronger than Lord Kouhai's." With a swift stomp he smashed her mask and head, leaving her body to lie beside the hollow she had killed. It appeared things were unraveling quicker than he anticipated. And those involved had left him with an uncomfortable feeling within his body.

He turned and looked at Guerrero. "I know you have more information, but don't strike me as the type that requires bribes. Therefore, do not perceive these as such. They are gifts, from me to you. Although, before you dine, I should ask: Are you involved in this group? The way they spoke to you, it made it seem as though you were privy to information they didn't want shared. Such a group doesn't disclose information freely, unless someone is a member or prospective member." He paused for a moment before continuing. "Who is the demon of the sand? And who is the woman you spoke of?" Clearly Guerrero knew a great deal of information, but the extent of her knowledge was unclear. 

Adjuchas class 3 x 2

[Guerrero Manipuladora]

She had willingly given up the information on the subject that he was searching for...but was soon informed that she was being hunted. This much Guerrero knew as she turned to greet her foes, and had soon engaged them in combat as Shikihitsuko stood there...watching. However, it seemed he took the effort to intervene as the final Adjuchas had stepped forward to assault Guerrero. Within a flash, he had sliced through the tendrils of the final Hollow causing cries of agonies and curses to rise into the air. Guerrero wondered first of all how he was capable of moving at such insane speeds. Was this what those Arrancar called...Sonido? It seemed truly marvelous.

It seemed that Guerrero owed this Arrancar her life seeing he had spared her existence...but why he did not know. Although, soon enough he had seemed to interrogate the Hollow in front of him about the figure Ungere. Guerrero had growled and licked her wounds as Shikihitsuko’s interrogation was cut short by another Hollow who appeared from the shadows to eliminate the one he captured. She could sense his frustration of having to interrogate so many times and being interrupted so many times. All the food around her was sitting there to be eaten and yet, Guerrero waited as her own life may be in danger from Shikihitsuko if he were to be angered and rageful.

As Guerrero waited, it seemed the amount of corpses in the area were luring weaker Hollows...or at least one so far as a vulture masked Hollow flew in the air. Guerrero had within a swift motion launched several scales to piece it’s body causing it to fall to the floor with a slight flap or two of it’s wings before it laid completely still. Guerrero had stomped on it’s mask just to make sure that this Hollow was going to remain dead. However, soon enough it seemed that Shikihitsuko was done with his interrogation as he killed the cactus Hollow without hesitation. Guerrero herself had groaned in pain as she soon felt the Espada’s gaze down upon her. She cared not of the organization, nor of their goals. What she was interested in was survival and progressing her strength.

Shikihitsuko had inquired information about what she knew...but wanted to make firmly clear he was not a man of bribes. “I do not consider my information as payment necessary. Information may be a powerful thing, but it should be restricted to any one person.” She had felt her tongue flick in and out in excitement as she was told she would be free to devour all of these tasty morsels for herself. However, the question he asked was what her involvement with the group of Hollows here was. Why they seemed to want to kill her for the information she had. She decided to be honest and tell him the truth instead of dancing around left and right.

“These Hollows serve under the Demon of the Sand who serves directly under this Ungere person. I had been hunted by the Demon for I had shot a Bala at his mask...for he had offered me a place as his grunt and I refused. He hunted me...and so I ran and spent time gaining information on my enemy. My ally Rocko the Philosopher Hollow had agreed to assist me and had infiltrated the ranks and had escaped after informing me. The woman who has been gathering powerful Hollows and Arrancar I do not know the name of although I do know that she is powerful.”  Guerrero had then spoke more. “My ally Rocko knows where The Eyes hide...although I myself do not know. I may take you to him however.”

She had taken this moment to let him think...as she would begin to go...devouring the corpses at record speed before anything may come to steal her meal from her. It was unfortunately something that has happened before. Although, she often doesn’t take kindly to thefts. If Shikihitsuko were to request of Guerrero to take him to Rocko to discover this threat, the snake would speak. “Rocko my friend lives within Karakura Town in the wilderness. He lives in a cave where he and I used to hold refuge. He will be willing to give the information...likely for free. All I ask of you in exchange for my service is this. First...are you an Espada that I have heard so much about? Second...if you are, may you give me a purpose. May I have your aid to unlock my humanity in exchange for my loyalty to you?”

This would be betraying Zegram, but she doubted he would be able to succeed in killing the demon. Even if he were to, he would likely have a hard time killing his superiors as compared to an Espada doing it. Guerrero would rather put her services and loyalty into someone that was already powerful as compared to one that was weak and was not even an upstart yet. Guerrero was curious in what his reply would be as she then reverted to her dragon form on all four legs as she bowed her head to the sand. A sign of respect. “I know that I lack power, but I believe that if Hollows were to be able to work alongside one another we would be unstoppable. Show me the way of the Arrancar and I shall give my utmost faith and loyalty onto you.”

If Shikihitsuko were to accept her offer, she would open a garganta by howling into the air, and would walk through the valley of screams as she would see several tall Gillian in the distance. She would see one was already dead on the ground...seemingly with a hole blasted through it’s head. A gillian had been rushing to collect it’s payment but it seemed that the wild ones would crowd around this spiritually aware being...and would devour it alive. Guerrero would step up to the fallen Gillian and would freely feast upon it’s flesh...bite by bite as she could feel a strange metamorphosis. She was changing and becoming more powerful. She felt herself break through a barrier of power as she was one step closer to becoming a Vasto Lorde. Yes...she was getting there.

SPOILER: Click to show

One Class 5 Gillian Devoured.
One Class 6 Hollow Devoured (Vulture)
2 Class 3 Adjuchas (Provided from Shikihitsuko)
2 Class 3 Adjuchas (Were alongside the ones that Shiki killed.)

[Shikitsuhiko Isayama]

"You misunderstand." He said. "I have no intention of bribing you. I was surmising that you are not one to request a bribe, and it seems I was correct." He listened as she continued to disclose valuable information about Los Ojos and those committed to its vision. He wondered how such a meager hollow could attract the attention of an organization, especially considering the scale at which it operates. Its reach seems more profound than his initial predictions. This was a concerning realization. Due to its scope, he had to channel more energy into uncovering this organization, and annihilate it. It stood to reason that anyone offered these unique services were deemed worthy of admission upon substantial growth. Whoever was leading them was adept at spotting talent, and using that to cultivate a powerful army.

Despite this strength, he had found each of his opponents weak and incompetent. By comparison, they were children among warriors, but if Los Ojos was to function unchecked it could have disastrous consequences. "Ungere." The name rang in his ears once again as Guerrero spoke of his role within this mysterious organization. While he was intrigued by the information, he was equally perplexed by the circumstances. "You refused to be subjugated by this 'Demon of the Sand,' going so far as to attack him. And yet, you had this 'philosopher' infiltrate this organization for you?" Shikitsuhiko was suspicious of the hollow's motives. There were aspects of her story that didn't quite make sense, but he did not sense deception emanating from her.

Shikitsuhiko walked past Guerrero, having listened to all she had to say. "I am an Espada, but you shouldn't conclude that I can offer you purpose. You will find yourself unfulfilled and forever without purpose if you rely on others to find it for you. Others are much too busy discovering their own to seek and uncover yours. Your purpose in life is to find your own and give your entire soul to it." He continued to walk toward the exit, the soft moonlight of Hueco Mundo illuminating his body. Shikitsuhiko was a man who seldom spoke out of turn, choosing instead to bide his time. His soft-spoken nature was often times eclipsed by the scorching truth that passed his lips. His intention was rarely for hurtful aspersions, but he had no interest in falsifying a reality for the sake of someone's reaction. He was equally disinterested in serving as Guerrero's guide in finding meaning. This was something she had to accomplish herself.

He felt life was about striving for something beyond ourselves, that which gives us purpose. However, purpose is only meaningful if we embark on it ourselves. Many do not share this belief, and would gladly tell another what they should be doing and how they should doing it. The person who accedes and allows the voice and soul of another to occupy them will never find satisfaction in life. They will merely be a reflection of those they choose to serve, and nothing more. This is why he would not decide anything for her. She needed to discover her own path, and if that lead to one alongside his own, he would welcome it.  

Shikitsuhiko exited the cave, but did not gesture toward Gurrerro. He merely began speaking. "Take me to this 'philosopher' of which you speak. If I detect even the subtlest of lies, I will not hesitate to apply my own methods for obtaining information. Your relationship with him will not be a factor, this much you should know. Surely we will encounter those who are obstinate and unwilling to share, so they will be dealt with swiftly. They will be yours for showing me the way. I should warn you, however, that I will not tolerate obstruction of any kind. Interfere and I will respond in the same manner as before." His tone was modulated, but heavy. His voice always carried with it the seriousness of the situation, but retained its smooth quality.

He reached his hand out and flicked the air, creating a large garganta for them to enter. "Lead the way." He said. He gestured for Guerrero to enter the garganta before him. This might surprise her, considering his position. Someone of his standing might expect to lead, but he did not worry himself with such trivialities. It meant nothing for him to walk behind her. "Lead me to this hollow you spoke of earlier and allow your concerns of servitude and power to subside. Perhaps this this path will also lead you to the answers in which you seek. Admittedly, such matters can be unpredictable." They passed through the Garganta and appeared in the human world. These woods were very familiar to him, as he once hunted here.

Despite these memories, he did not speak. They were not relevant to the mission and therefore not worth noting. "Where is this 'cave' you spoke of? And why does a mere hollow possess the title of philosopher? Surely he has done nothing to warrant a title denoting wisdom and knowledge." Shikitsuhiko's cynicism and disbelief were becoming more apparent as they journeyed together. He did not think poorly of hollows, rather believed they had not yet gained the tools necessary for possessing such notable attributes. At least those suggested by the name philosopher. He stopped abruptly and placed his hand in front of Guerrero, directing her to stop.

"It is nearly impossible for an Arrancar and hollow to enter the real world and go unnoticed. My presence, even while suppressed, is noteworthy." He said cryptically. He was listening to the sounds around him, feeling the vibrations. He could hear and feel the wind. Hear the rustling of the leaves and the creatures scurrying above ground and below. He could also hear foot stops and the creeking of branches as one's weight beared down on them. "There are two of them. Both substitute soul reapers. The woman is stronger, but only slightly. They are mere novices. I can tell by the way they move. And their spiritual energy is messy. Don't move." He ordered before vanishing using sonido. 

He appeared in the branches of the trees, getting a better sense of their direction. You're asking to die with such carelessness. He thought. As the woman approached he dove and appeared behind the man only a few paces behind her. He pierced his chest with his hand and vanished with his body before the blood could even splatter on the trees. The woman aburptly stopped and looked behind her. She was surprised to not see her comrade, who was just behind her. "Anke. Where are you?! You idiot! Did you get distracted in the middle of a pursuit?!" She shouted. "No, but you did." He said calmly. He appeared behind her, hovering over her body. She could see his shadow eclipsing her own and a spine tingling fear enveloped her body. Blood splattered across the base of the tree before they both vanished. He appeared and dropped her body next to the other man. "They are still alive, so this will likely appeal more to your hollow instincts. Consume them quickly and let's get moving."



Class 5 Shinigami
Class 4 Shinigami
 

[Guerrero Manipuladora]

The Espada in front of her seemed a bit skeptical at the brief explanation she had given and looking for loopholes on why she would ask her friend to sneak in and provide information for her. She didn’t think he was a fool as Hollows and by extension Arrancar had a natural distrust towards most people. “Yes, I refused to join under him simply because if I were to submit under his reign, I would likely never reach my goal of gaining my humanity. I would be forever a lowly Hollow incapable of becoming something greater. I have been...looking for Arrancar in the hope of them being able to help me reach this goal by giving me purpose.” Guerrero had remained quiet as he took the opportunity to explain he could not give her purpose.

She had to find it herself apparently. “If that is the case, then I may need to make it more clear. I wish to become like one of you Arrancar and to join this hierarchy I had learned about. I more specifically want to be a subordinate under someone strong so that I may grow stronger under their guidance and service. Seeing you are an Espada, I was hoping that you could bring this dream into fruition and make me your Fraccion. Is this a possibility? I seek not revenge nor do I harbor hatred like many of my Hollow. What I seek is civilization and humanity above all first.” Silence as Shikihitsuko walked to the exit as the moonlight washed over his figure.

While Shikihitsuko thought about about purpose, so did Guerrero. She had felt a lack of purpose at this moment as she lived day by day, simply eating and surviving. She was a Hollow and she had done well to make it to this point of power, but now she wanted an objective. She wanted a reason to continue her existence if she were to ever succeed in her goal. The loneliness and isolation she had as a Hollow was stifling. She was hoping perhaps that if she could be given a purpose, a use, then that would make her feel more human. Perhaps she was wrong. But if she was wrong, what could she do? What would she do was the question?

Silence once again as Shikihitsuko had then spoken addressing her earlier proposition. She was to take him to her friend but he had made it clear that lies would lead to punishment, and that her relationship with Rocko was to play no role in this. There was no point in denying as she would be killed if she were to refuse, but also she had confidence that Rocko would be able to give the information Shikihitsuko wanted to know without obstruction or deceptions. Out of all of the Hollow she had ever met, he was the most honest and sincere. In some ways, the most Human Hollow.

Guerrero remained silent but had nodded. “I accept.” Within a moment, she found herself with Shikihitsuko in the world of the living, more specifically the wilderness of Karakura Town. Shikihitsuko turned to her and asked where the location of the cave was as well as what Rocko had done to merit the title of a philosopher. “Follow me and I shall guide you. As for Rocko. He had come to me when I was lowly and had guided me on the path of how to survive as a Hollow, but had also spoke with me often of how Hollows should live and what they should do. Allow me to explain.” Guerrero would have if not for the mention of Shinigami.

She was told to remain where she was as Shikihitsuko had vanished within a moment in the rapid movement technique known as Sonido. Guerrero had remained quiet as she turned her eyes to see a vortex suddenly open with two figures walking through it. One was an old man with blue hair and a lab coat. The other was a young boy with brown hair and a yellow shirt. “Y-Y-You Know Rick, that was one of the most exciting adventures we’ve had yet Rick. That whole Naruto world was pretty cool.” The other male burped with a bit of vomit trailing down his mouth as he grinned in a drunken stupor.

“Yup! You know it! N-N-Now it’s time for us to go to Blitz and Chipz! Where did I park the damn car?” Guerrero didn’t care what she was seeing right now, she just went for it. Using her tail, she coated it in spikes before flinging it straight through the back of the male adult with blood splattering as she quickly pounced on the younger boy who began to scream and press against the inside of her mouth. She quickly shoved both corpses into her mouth before Shikihitsuko would return with two more snacks this time apparently. Shikihitsuko worked fast and effective, Guerrero made note of that.

He told her to eat fast and she didn’t need to be told twice. She swallowed them whole as she could feel her spiritual energy growing and replenishing as well as seemingly her wounds healing as she began to move past the familiar forestry. As they were walking, Shikihitsuko would be able to see what seemed to be a odd vehicle parked throughout the fauna as Guerrero continued to walk before cutting to the trees on her right. They were getting closer she was sure. She had lived here for quite some time as a lower stage Hollow, learning from Rocko and having him around as company.

After fifteen minutes and passing by a stream, they would find themselves within a small cave opening which was dimly lit by orange lighting, a fire by the looks of it. “Rocko my good friend! I have returned and with a friend who wishes to ask you some questions!” There was silence before there was the slight sound of a grunt before a bear like being would step out from the cave entrance with two yellow eyes looking out to Shikihitsuko. “Ah. A Broken One. Please come inside and sit by the fire. We may talk all you wish inside and I shall answer to the best of my ability.”

The cave was what looked to be a bear cave ironically but now had seats carved from stone and a blazing fire inside as Rocko would take the moment to roll a large stone over the entrance as to keep the conversation confidential. Slowly sitting back down onto one of the stone seats, he would seem to get into a more serious demeanor as he looked to the Espada. “So, please do ask away.” Rocko seemed civil as compared to most other Hollows. Guerrero rested herself along the floor, resting content by the fire as she was going to remain silent and let the conversation play out between the two. She needed some time to digest all this heavy food.

SPOILER: Click to show

2 Shinigami eaten (Class 5, Class 4)
2 Class 8 Humans eaten (Rick, and Morty.)

[Shikitsuhiko Isayama]

"A broken one." Shikitsuhiko heard stated from the one called "the philosopher." Surely this was a mistake. No mere hollow could possess such a title. He wondered why this hollow remained in the human world and why he went by such a name. Despite his curiosity he was far more concerned with his main objective: finding out more about Los Ojos. He observed his surroundings with his sharpened senses,  taking note of the inside of this cave and those inside it. He sensed something odd from this hollow, but nothing overtly dangerous. He was rather well-mannered considering his position. He wouldn't allow that to stop him from retrieving answers.

"According to your friend sitting beside me, you have inside knowledge of this 'group' that has been gather hollows and proving them nourishment. Quite the sophisticated program consider a hollow's nature. What do you know of it?" Shikitsuhiko paused, waiting for the man to respond. He wasn't sure how useful this man would be, but knew Guerrero would not lie to him. She was not foolish enough to make such a miscalculation. She knew there would be consequences. He suspected this "philosopher" too understand such things. After all, Shikitsuhiko could very easily kill him. It wouldn't take much at all. 

"As a matter of fact, while you tell me everything you know of this group, including their name, tell me who you were fortunate enough to meet. There is an arrancar, who likely goes by the name Ungere, who is suspected of being a member of this elusive, but treacherous organization. I want to know his role and how deeply involved he is. I suspect he is connected to this 'demon of the sand,' you were referring to earlier." He said, directing this at Guerrero. "I should warn you, though, withholding facts will prove fatal. That is the only warning I will give."

Shikitsuhiko was eager to determine the extent of this group, especially those involved. He found it alarming that an organization was capable of gaining such traction within Hueco Mundo. Most groups like these are suffed out, either by Las Noches or competing groups. Infighting is typically to blame for such a group imploding in on itself. It is typical hollow behavior. They can't simply work together. Despite not knowing he secretly worried about what he would discover by exploring this topic. He had been concerned over the past several months and hoped his worries were for naught. 

[Guerrero Manipuladora]

The Hollow Philosopher known as Ungere looked at Shikihitsuko very plainly. "Los Ojos is the group you seek information for. I know more information than Guerrero and also how the system has been working. Generally, the group not only acts within the Menos Forest. However, this is where one simple thing happens...Recruitment. There have also been Los Ojos recruitments that happen within the Human and even within the dwellings of the Soul Society wilderness to find the most powerful Hollows. Los Ojos is however...lead by someone within your very organization. However, her identity is so well hidden that nobody but her closest subordinates and strongest know her identity."

The bear like being looked into the flame as he then slowly opened his mouth again. "The Demon of the Sand. I have met him face to face and he is indeed connected to the man known as Ungere. The Demon of the Sand as well as Ungere have been tasked with making sure that the recruitment goes strongly and that their acts of treachery of Las Noches are to not be discovered. Ungere as I have found is known to be one of the main leaders. However, the Demon of the Sand has little to no interest in this endeavor as he follows the system only to strengthen himself. He has threatened Hollows, devoured them, and has gained a wide repertoire of followers. I know more...although this information is restricted to those that mask break and enter the ranks of Las Noches. The reason why I know such information is due to the nature of my ability. Guerrero had asked of me to gain her information...and so I had through an ability known as Fission."

Guerrero turned to Shikihitsuko as she spoke. "He has the ability to split his spiritual particle body in half and regenerate as the other half becomes a separate entity. That copy had infiltrated and broken its mask in order to relay further information." The philosopher Hollow had slowly grabbed a stick before tossing it into the fire. The flames grew before settling and crackling. "Those that break their masks and enter the ranks of the Las Ojos are accepted not only within the organization but through the Arrancar system. New Arrancar that are made each day. Many of them could very well be traitors to your King under the guise of servants. There are roughly 30 Arrancar at the moment serving under Los Ojos at the moment and all of them were at least Adjuchas when their masks were broken. They are working on bolstering their numbers at the moment. Other than Ungere himself, I do not know anyone else who knows the leader's identity. However, people have often suspected that the leader has served under the strong...Espada I think they are called and is looking to infiltrate that rank herself. They have a base within Las Noches unfortunately I do not know where that is seeing my copy has been killed. I live here. I apologize."

Silence before the Bear looked to Shikihitsuko. Into his eyes... "Ask me more specific questions. If you wish to know where to find the Demons of the Sands, he does not dwell in the Menos Forest to do dirty work. He lives in the Hueco Mundo Sands in a tall pillar made of stone. There lives majority of his followers that Las Ojos has gathered. They are fed and nurtured before taken to Las Noches. Likely if you find the Desert...you may draw the attention of Ungere. This Pillar is roughly 800 Meters North West of the Menos Forest. It is a pillar that goes underground rather far. Is there any other information you inquire?"

[Shikitsuhiko Isayama]

Shikitsuhiko found himself surprised by the breadth of knowledge possessed by this hollow. He has clearly uncovered a number of important details about Los Ojos and those occupying various ranks. Still, he remained concerned over the identity of their primary leader, a woman, who was likely a member of Las Noches. It would stand to reason many of the other members were also members of Las Noches, but she would need to hold a more prominent position to retain their loyalty. Arrancar and hollows aren't loyal by nature. They need to be convinced to place their faith and loyalty in another. It appears whoever that was had successfully gained both of those and convinced them to betray Las Noches.

The threat of rebellion was constant in Las Noches. Those too preoccupied with their own sense or pride and ego were incapable of accepting a former Shinigami as their leader. Many felt it betrayed their identities as hollows, which was an understandable argument but not one shared by Shikitsuhiko. He was devoted to Kouhai for helping him transcend after having his own plans for evolution halted by Shinigami researchers. His power and mastery allowed him to break the shackled imposed upon him by the experiment. While they could not restore his vision they allowed him to break his bonds and become an Arrancar. It was a powerful moment for him and therefore he has remained loyal. Despite that, Shikitsuhiko was naturally even tempered, well-reasoned, and loyal. His personality anchored his current position.

Of all the Espada, he was likely the most loyal. To those he was loyal he was also fiercely protective. He was intolerant of those who would defy their duty and betray Las Noches. His concerns of disloyalty had intensified over the past several months in the wake of many unsettling events. He had suspected for quite some time that someone within Las Noches' echelons was colluding with outside forces. He had been investigating privately and many leads turned up nothing. In fact, he was at an emotional and intellectual crossroads. A voice from within him was providing insight into his investigation but that voice spoke of unspeakable betrayal. It was a difficult conflict for Shikitsuhiko, especially as he was someone who was coldly decisive. 

Over the course of a couple months he had become suspicious of someone close to him, of someone he had learned to trust and value. The voice within him spoke passionately of her betrayal, but he had subdued the voice against his better judgement. Normally he would not hesitate to rely on his instincts, as they have never failed him. He was of the discipline that demanded action and resolve. It was uncommon for him to doubt so profoundly, or rather avoid what he felt was more logical. For someone who relied on facts he was finding himself governed by emotion and attachment, a rarity for many arrancar. To make matters worse, he was feeling further conflicted by the startling news of Ungere's involvement. 

He had not forgotten that name. It belonged to a former comrade, one that journeyed with him even before he was captured by Shinigami. It was that fateful moment that changed his course and separated him from those he had bonded with. He kept them safe and protecte them while they kept him from feeling alone. There was a strong sense of camaraderie between them. He assumed they had perished following his capture as it made sense considering the enemies they had acquired through their travels. It appears Ungere survived, though he coul not be certain if he was the only one who remained. To learn that his former comrade was a member of a rebellion left him unsettled. Unfortunately for Ungere their former relationship would not factor into his decision to remove the threat of this rebellion.

Even worse, Shikitsuhiko would not be offering those involved reparations. Deceit of this nature, and the intention of treason, was not something capable of being absolved by absorbing the guilty into Las Noches. It would resolve things in the short-term only and allow them to plot from within. The punishment would be death. If Ungere was truly alive and involved, he too would perish as a result of his crimes. Shikitsuhiko was unwavering in his belief that such crimes deserve swift, permanent punishments. Still, if the person who he suspects is involved, it will be more challenging for him to deliver said punishment. His attachment to her, to Lagos, is much stronger than that of Ungere. He would need to remain resolute. 

Considering these facts, Shikitsuhiko abruptly returned to his feet and turned his back to both Lagos and the philosopher. "It appears things are far more intricate than I previously anticipated. This 'Los Ojos' rebellion has committed treason and will be terminated. I suggest you discontinue any involvement you may still have, either with espionage or with those affiliated with this organization. If not, I will return to eliminate you, too." He said coldly. "I will pursue this 'Demon of the Sands' and extract the necessary information from him and his subordinates. I assume he will know more specifically the location of Ungere and his superior, the woman you spoke of?" 

Shikitsuhiko paused for a response before slowing approaching the exit. "You may follow me if you wish. I assume you would like to witness the demise of this 'demon of the sand' as he is someone who you have encountered in the past." He said plainly to Guerrero. "Before I leave, I do want to advise you on something of significance." As he approached the exit he spoke calmly but sternly. "Guerrero described you as wise, someone who knew many things. Indeed you knew quite a bit about this rebellion and its members. And yet, despite your knowledge, you speak with uncertainty of Las Noches and the Espada. No hollow in Hueco Mundo is unaware of Las Noches or Espada. An individual who speaks with such uncertainty about the existence of the Espada is undeserving of the title in which you have. Neither wise nor philosopher belong to you. You have proven yourself as nothing more than a very fortunate spy who managed to escape death." Just before exiting, Shikitsuhiko turned his head slightly so the hollow could see his face. "I am Shikitsuhiko Isayama, Cuarta Espada."

He then exited the lair, leaving only seconds for the hollow to respond. Despite this opportunity for response, it was uncertain if he would considering Shikitsuhiko's intimidating presence. He tapped his finger in the air, creating a large Garganta for he and Guerrero to pass through. "I will now venture to Hueco Mundo. You are welcome to come along. It'd be unwise to forfeit such a rare opportunity considering your previous efforts aimed at convincing me to aid in your evolution." With that he entered the Garganta. This would open again within the sands of Hueco Mundo, just outside Las Noches. Guerrero would be able to see the massive buildings that was Las Noches in the distance. "Based on his description the Demon of the Sand is located relatively close. Normally one would assume to create a dwelling far from their enemies, but doing so just under their nose, the seemingly illogical choice, proves most beneficial." 

As he walked through the desert, he could sense everything around him. There were hollows lurking about, but none dared approach with him nearby. It would be foolish. They neared a large stone pillar, but it surrounded by two smaller dome-like structures. "The remnants of an old building belonging to the early days of Las Noches. They would have the audacity to take-up residence here." He said with a loathing tone. As he approached two large adjuchas burrowed from beneath the sand and began ascending. They towered over even Shikitsuhiko who was already quite tall. They were large foes, but, unfortunately, for Shikitsuhiko they were like children. "I assume you are stationed here to guard against intruders." 

As he spoke both of their mouths dropped several feet and large ceros began to form between their jaws. Shikitsuhiko remained still as the massive ceros fired from their mouths. He did not warn Guerrero, assuming she would be smart enough to distance herself quickly from this. The ceros crashed against him, striking the ground he stood upon, creating a plume of searing energy. Once the energy dissipated and the debris settled, Shikitsuhiko remained in the same location. He was completely unharmed by their ceros, despite their massive size. "Cero can be quite a deceptive technique because size doesn't always imply strength, though it certainly can. In your case, it didn't. That was shamefully weak." He vanished and between them. They both turned and looked down at him, but in doing so blood began to spout from their bodies. He had practically sliced them in half, causing both to collapse. "Eat quickly. We have things to accomplish. I assume the Demon of the Sound has member within his chambers and has already senses us."

Two class Four Adjuchas

[Guerrero Manipuladora]

As Shikihitsuko had contemplated and thought of the information, Guerrero in all honesty was a little bit tense wondering if the information that Rocko provided was sufficient or not in terms of satisfaction. Shikihitsuko made it clear that he did not joke around and yet, she found that trait admirable in men. She liked men who were serious and could take a sense of pride in their priorities first before doing anything else. However, he was powerful. More powerful than what she was capable of reaching at the moment. She could feel something though deep within herself. She was close to reaching the next level of evolution and becoming more powerful. Yes...she was so close to reaching another level of strength. Although so far also. She could sense that he was troubled...but then again, what Arrancar and Hollow weren’t troubled?

As soon as Shikihitsuko mentioned exterminating the demon of the sands as well as this rebellion he was seeking, Guerrero’s right eye raised. She was interested at the prospect of not only gaining sustenance, but also seeing the death of that bastard demon herself. However, she remained silent while Rocko had taken the liberty to respond to Shikihitsuko’s word personally. “He will likely lead you to Ungere. Ungere will lead you to her. Besides. The demon’s hubris and pride will likely lead him to die before he tells you anything of value.” The fire crackled as the snake had risen to follow the powerful Arrancar as offered. However, the bear remained silent especially when Shikihitsuko had spoke his folly of the lack of knowledge on the Arrancar and Espada.

“Now...you seem to have for some reason assumed that I have myself ever stepped into the boundaries of Hueco Mundo. I “myself” have never entered the land. For the past one thousand fivehundred years, I have lived in solitude as my copies have become my knowledge and my experiences. I have learned what it is like to be slaughtered by a Shinigami. I am aware of what it is like to be devoured and assimilated. I am aware of what it was like briefly to be an Arrancar. I know what it is like...to have been a Vasto Lorde. While I may not know much of Las Noches and their ideologies, the experience I have in fact perhaps has given me a modicum of wisdom. I wish you luck on your quest Cuarta Espada.” The bear had retreated back into his cave as Guerrero followed the Espada through his Garganta through the valley of screams.

This was the time for vengeance on the demon for his assaults, his intimidations, and attempts to coerce Hollows to cause a even greater sense of disorder. To prevent others consumption in order for him to increase his own power and strength. The sand demon she knew was a greedy being who cared for nothing other than his own benefit. As a result, he deserved to be punished. Guererro trailed along the darkness alongside the identified Espada with thoughts in her own mind: of power, of evolution, and of humanity. She was slowly thinking in her head but keeping those thoughts silent until she was certain of what her purpose was to be once she retained humanity. She had a thought of what she sought to do.

It was only when that Shikihitsuko spoke to her about the location of the base did she throw in her own two sense. “Yes. Although it is often the place with the most alluring location where traps lie.” She found it suspicious that the Los Ojos base of operations would be so close to the careful watch of Las Noches for powerful Hollows to convert and take into their ranks. However, there was no better place than the Menos Forest to seek Hollows for the cause of evolution. To those that did not submit, they would simply be killed and eaten. It wasn’t complicated. Although, it didn’t particularly sound wise. Shikihitsuko was the 4th Espada, and based off what Zegram told her, that meant he was the fourth strongest Arrancar in all of Hueco Mundo. Although...she wondered if he had a Fraccion as she was also informed of those and the benefits to their ranking.

As the twin Adjuchas were appearing, she could already feel the vibrations under herself. Immediately, the snake opened her mouth as she went backwards using the stepping technique known as Ulcera to open a tear into the world’s fabric and slipping into it to avoid taking damage, but yet also being able to witness the events of the world around her. Shikihitsuko’s display of power...to take on two cero head on was impressive. She had never heard of any being able to do so. Nor has she met such a being with this much power. As she exited the Ulcera, she saw that Shikihitsuko in a swift motion had already dealt with the threat. “Charming. Absolutely charming Shikihitsuko-Sama.” It no longer felt proper to call an Espada by his first name. Sama fit his title far better for a man of this power.

It was at that moment, she consumed further...the two corpses at the ground as quickly as possible. Guerrero at that moment had opened her mouth and allowed her forked tongue to sense the area. “There is dang-” In that moment, there was silence as a spurt of blood had sprayed from the snake’s neck before her head fell to the floor. Her body twisted and convulsed. In the far distance atop one of the domes was a relatively small being...almost human sized in appearance. His mask covered his lower jaw and left eye as his right eye was almost was humanoid. The reiatsu strength was considerable. However, within a breeze, he had been blown away as he appeared at the entrance of the dome. There was silence as the man vanished at an alarming speed, inward towards the building before several more howls could be heard. There were four of them.

There were suddenly several other forms that had burst from the ground at an alarming rate, and at this time, Guerrero’s body had released a cacophony of snakes of large size, large enough to swallow a normal human whole before they burst out. Two of them had bitten down on the bodies of two Adjuchas as Guerrero’s body continued to compulse. Within a moment, the severed neck would spew a clear fluid before a new head had burst through the throat...followed by a new body as Guerrero growled in discomfort. Her new skin was shiny...but it was raw and rather irritating to work with. The two snakes that had found prey had gradually sucked themselves inward into Guerrero’s stomach as foolishly two more Hollows had rushed forward at Shikihitsuko.

One had extended its right hand out to seemingly lengthen it’s fingers in an attempt to pierce Shikihitsuko. The other had been one with wings as it had quickly taken the liberty to flap, sending several sharp projectiles flying down towards the Espada. It seems that Los Ojos was waiting for them. Although...how they were informed was yet to be seen. The Demon Of The Sands was likely the one who had sliced Guerrero’s head off in a single swoop before retreating into the remnants of the old ruins that he called home. In order for Shikihitsuko to find the information he wanted, he would have to hunt this demon down. Also, in order to prevent the order of Las Noches to be affected, he had to kill all opposition. “DIE!” The Hollow with it’s hand extended would call. The aerial creature remained quiet as it began to make a retreat.

Guerrero at this moment had immediately used the Ulcera to hide once more. She could feel the harsh sun now on her sensitive skin. Also...so she would not interfere with Shikihitsuko. She wanted to see more of his power. She traveled through the Ulcera, hiding as she watched Shikihitsuko with a sense of admiration for the power and sense of duty he held. "Show me what powers you have gained from gaining your humanity. Show me what I too am capable of accomplishing if I too put in the effort to become human as you have. Show me...my future." Her forked tongue stuck outward as she witnessed him.
 

SPOILER: Click to show

Ate 4 Class 4 Adjuchas. (Two provided by Shikihitsuko.)

[Shikitsuhiko Isayama]

Shikitsuhiko casually walked forward as the chaos ensued around him. He was unfazed by the events transpiring. The possibility of deciphering these cryptic clues was largely occupying his focus. He turned to welcome the presence of a powerful arrancar as it sped through the area and retreated into the cavernous ruins. It had retreated, but not before severing Guerrero. He scoffed and casually walked into cavernous area. Two hollows had dared approach him, but he dispatched with them with ease, slamming their heads together with a simple use of sonido. Their bodies fell the ground as he continued into the distance. "Pull yourself together." He said plainly to Guerrero as he entered the ruins.

The shadows bathed his body as a voice could be heard in the distance. "To think that foolish serpent would have acquired company of your stature. I am impressed, but saddened. How can you stoop so low?" Shikitsuhiko listened closely and felt the movements of his enemy in the distance. He was kneeling behind the remnants of this mighty structure's interior. "Don't waste your emotions on me. It would be wise to conserve that for when you truly need it. It won't be long now, I assure you." He said with a tinge of disdain in his voice. "You are the 'Demon of the Sand,' I assume. Your strength is far greater than I anticipated it would be. It appears you benefited a great deal from your arranged with Ungere and his superior. Enough so that you were able to break your mask and ascend to the status of Arrancar. From your aura alone I can tell that such a transition only served to bolster your already inflated self-opinion."

The Demon of the Sand laughed as he scurried to another location, hiding behind large stone pillars. "I did! Very observant of you. I didn't think those within Las Noches were so observant. I didn't think you paid much attention to the affairs of greater Hueco Mundo." He said mockingly. "Have you come here to scold me for breaking the rules? The rules established by a SHINIGAMI!" He said while raising the volume of his voice. Shikitsuhiko was a patient man, and seldom reacted quickly unless the situation necessitated it. He preferred to carefully examine his surrounding and his opponent. Everything was data, and it helped him construct a picture of his environment and foe. It informed how he would navigate his environment, how he could utilize it to his benefit, how his opponent might try and maneuver, and his opponent's apparent strengths and weaknesses. 

He knew just from their brief interaction that he was dealing with an egotistical and selfish opponent. He believes his newly acquired strength has guaranteed him near immunity, and is certain the dark, cavernous environment will obscure him from my senses. He is suppressing his reiatsu and quietly waiting among the shadows. He thought to himself before everything shifted in an instance. "How naive." He said plainly as he stood beside his opponent, having used sonido to bridge the distance in mere seconds. The Demon of the Sand was startled and immediately went on the offensive. He placed a great deal of energy into his arm, balled his fist, and proceeded to punch in Shikitsuhiko's direction. It would be a miscalculation on his part.

Shikitsuhiko caught his fist in his palm and began squeezing down on his hand. With a quick gesture he pulled his opponent toward him slammed his elbow into his face. He simultaneously released his fist, balled his own fist an slammed his right hand into his opponent's chest. In that moment all of Shikitsuhiko's hierro was drawn away from every region of his body and channeled into his fist. Upon colliding with his opponent a loud crack could be heard as it echoed faintly. His opponent was catapulted into the distance, striking a large stone wall. An indentation was left in the stone as his body fell to the floor. He gripped his chest and took several deep breaths, though he couldn't seem to recover. 

Shikitsuhiko could clearly hear the deep, labored breath from the Demon of the Sand. He had not expected his opponent to find him so quickly, especially with his reiatsu concealed so well. It was true, he had broken his mask and attained great power, but he was against the apex of an Arrancar's potential. He was facing an Espada. Their reputation was not by happenstance as each possessed great power, so much so that it allowed them to occupy a position within the rank. "Tell me your true name." Shikitsuhiko demanded abruptly. 

His arrancar opponent inhaled deeply as he clutched his chest. That single attack had dealt critical damage to his body, despite his own hierro. He felt his ribs were cracked or broken, causing his breathing to suffer. He spit up some blood before angrily glaring at Shikitsuhiko. "What if I were to tell you that I have since forgotten my own name? I became the Demon of the Sand so long ago that my own name has since evaporated from my memory." He said sharply but with a hint of a smile. Shikitsuhiko began appraoaching him, which immediately caused him to scramble to his feet and take a defensive posture. "I'd think you were lying if you told me such a tale." Shikitsuhiko responded tersely. 

"You might draw some pride from such a name, as it suggests a modicum of prestige and accomplishment. But I highly doubt you'd forget your own name. You're much to self-centered." Shikitsuhiko's stern tone remained steady, but he was slowly growing weary of these games. He was not interested in conversation. He would prefer his opponent give him the answers he desires so he could dispose of them. "Tell me your name. Now." He demanded more fiercely. "Biel." He stubbornly said before vanished and appearing in the distance. 

"You've come for answers, that much is clear. Ungere shared many stories where you came out the hero. A valiant savior of hollows. He was angered to find out that you betrayed your people and turned your loyalty toward a Shinigami masquerading as a leader of Hueco Mundo." He shook his head and drew a blade from his side. Shikitsuhiko grimaced as his lips drooped from displeasure. "I see. That seems to be the popular excuse for treason these days. How convenient. And yet, completely uncompelling." 

Biel laughed excitedly. "He'll be both thrilled and disappointed to know that I killed Shikitsuhiko." It appeared Ungere had been open about his relationship with Shikitsuhiko and disclosed a number of details about their travels. This had convinced Shikitsuhiko of an important detail he had not been able to verify: Was the leader of Los Ojos a member of Las Noches? It appeared his suspicions were confirmed, otherwise Shikitsuhiko would only be a tenuous connection between Ungere and his stories. The data points were beginning to form a pattern, one that led to a disturbing realization. Lagos. He thought to himself angrily just as his opponent released his resurrección. 

"Drown, Hormiga!" He shouted as his blade became a deep sandy yellow before energy erupted. His body began to melt and reshape as his body resembled that of a antlion. His body became plump and elongated as he acquired four new arms and massive mandibles on his face. He developed a sort of spiked shell on his backside. He suddenly leaned over and glared at Shikitsuhiko. "You will die buried by the sand you stand upon! Tumba de arena (Sand Tomb)! The ground began to quake as the structure around them began to descend upon them. "Oh, so your ability can draw in even something of this size? How troublesome." They both vanished and aimed toward the exit. Flying out of the building, it sank into the sand and left nothing remaining. "That wasn't meant for me. No, you were covering your tracks, which likely proves useful and is likely why you've remained connected with the organization." Shikitsuhiko frowned. "I suppose I have no choice but to force you to answer my questions. How wasteful."

2 class 6 hollows.

[Shizuka Sanamizu ✮]

Since Dan dropped out, none of her consumptions count. Therefore, this will be graded normally.

112 paragraphs = 560 TP for Shikitsuhiko (I forgot what you were training for)

[Shizuka Sanamizu ✮]

Oh shit, i can' tufkcing count omg

also pessing enter doens't actuall post this thing
i'm that bad NOT THAT BAD AT YPING

typing*

okay. i don't remember what i graded this as, woops

whoops

WHoopS

ha

you know, i'll look a tthi tomorrow actually. i can't keep my eyes in one place for too ong so i have no idea LONG so i have no idea what this is

[Shizuka Sanamizu ✮]

112 paragraphs = 280 SP for Guerrero



200 CTP + 600 CTP + 500 CTP + 420 CTP + 400 CTP = 2120 CTP Total