Lore of the Wild, Part Two: Eden-Bound

[Zeich Yajuu]

Name: Lore of the Wild: Eden-Bound

Participants: Three participants; Shinigami and Beast-Clansman only. Class 5-3 recommended.

Location: The Beast Realm: Eden

Difficulty Level: Medium-Hard

Setting: DE

Plotline: This is the sequel to Lore of the Wild, Part 1: Tooth and Claw

Recently, the Beast-Clansmen have been in an uproar, with unprecedented numbers of them gathering in the World of the Living. Centered in an area known simply as Sanctuary, a remote region that exists solely as a safe haven for the Beast-Clansmen, a meeting was held. This meeting was held to create an alliance of the many Beast-Clansman packs, either under a single ruling pack or as a unified group.

But there is also another purpose to this meeting. The Scylding Clan has come forward with both a claim and a demand: they have discovered entrance to the Beast Realm, the land from which all Beast-Clansmen originate. This land is known to all Beast-Clansmen only through hazy memory, as their originally human souls progress to that realm for only a short period before returning to the known worlds in their animal-like forms. To many, this is a land of origin, and more importantly, it is a land away from humans, Shinigami, and Hollows alike; this is their home, and it is a safe haven separated not by distance, but by being an entirely separate world divided by the others.

The demand was simple: to gain access to the Beast-Realm, those interested only had to swear fealty to the Scylding Clan, making the pack of leonine Beast-Clansmen the impromptu leaders of the many groups that wished to return to their home realm. Though promises of independence and self-autonomy were given, many resisted this demand, choosing instead to claim their own destinies, rather than letting another pack choose for them. Negotiations began in full swing, though many came to the point of combat among the lesser members of various packs. The alphas, on the other hand, convened to discuss and converse.

In this time, several people involved themselves in the negotiations in some form, including Kimiko Shihoin and Aevus Renard of the Shinigami. However, the unexpected occurred as Eadgils, the leader of the Scylding Clan, was unexpectedly struck down with a deadly venom, his condition unstable and his future unknown. His son, Skofnung, took over the meeting, and calling upon Kimiko’s judgment as the Shinigami representative, brought the alliance to the agreement that the Beast-Realm would be shared with all, with future governing to be determined once their homeland was reclaimed. In return, the Shinigami were granted free access to study the Beast-Realm so long as their studies remained non-invasive and were monitored by the Beast-Clansmen. The safety of their home is priority over the curiosity of the Shinigami, after all.

And now we come to the present. Two weeks have passed since the Eden, the name given to the Beast-Realm by Skofnung, has become free to access for both the Shinigami and the Beast-Clansmen. A single portal to this realm exists in Seireitei, near the Senkaimon Gates, while a second is available in the World of the Living through Sanctuary, but is only available for the Beast-Clansmen to use. Two weeks has given those who have come to this land time to settle, with packs claiming small territories to be slowly expanded at a later point. Skofnung and his pack have kept an eye on each group, settling any territory disputes and ensuring general quiet in the meantime. =

But now, a scout has come with word of a city discovered past the expanse of a broad plain, a few hours travel away from the portal to Eden. Not knowing who occupies the city and what their inclination towards the Beast-Clansmen will be, Skofnung has called upon the Shinigami to travel with him to extend greetings to their new neighbor, hoping to begin with overtures of peace rather than giving a declaration of war. In exchange, Seireitei has sent a few of their members to escort Skofnung, ensuring his safety as well as gathering intelligence on those who already live in Eden. A few of the Beast-Clansmen, both those who have settled in Eden and those who still live in Soul Society, have also joined the visit.

Those who join will have two major missions: to learn more about the inhabitants of the great city, and to protect Skofnung in the event that negotiations break down. The latter applies to the Beast-Clansmen who are accompanying in particular; they are only being allowed as bodyguards, rather than being freely loosed to explore the city. Skofnung is keeping a tight rein on the party in order to ensure that the wrong message does not come across to the city’s ruler, and will dismiss those who try and act out of turn if necessary.

Estimated Enemy Strength: Class 5-2

Estimated Time Until Completion: Until completion.

Starts: Immediately – Players may post an introduction immediately, without reservation. Participants will begin by simply entering Eden either via Soul Society’s portal near the Senkaimon Gates or via the portal that exists in Sanctuary, in the World of the Living. They will be given orders upon the first DM post.

Special Conditions: This thread will have an enforced time limit. DM posts will come after one week. Players who have not posted in this time limit without communicating issues of limited activity will receive a strike, and three strikes will constitute removal from the thread. Should a player be removed, the slot will open up for another eligible player, and the story will adapt as necessary. There is no posting order as long as posts come within the one-week limit.

[Senshi Odayakama (Crimson.)]

Odayakama Senshi was finally back in action. Released from the hospital, the now one armed woman had went through physical therapy to make sure she was fit enough to serve, even with one arm, she had found herself willing to continue her duty. Her outfit was not much edited, the only real difference was that her left arm was completely missing, the sleeve tied back as to avoid it flapping in the wind. A lot had changed since her trip to the hospital and her defeat by the Sternritter in the world of the living. Why was Odayakama Senshi of all people attending this new task to a seemingly new world never before explored?

It was because she was a Vice Captain, one of the only available at the moment due to the business of the captains on other fronts. While her physical abilities were lacking, her Kido was quite possibly the most advanced of any other Vice Captain and her Shikai was fit for the job of protection if need be. Having read the mission’s general summary, she was to head to the portal outside Senkaimon and await for her team members as well as a briefing on what her exact mission was to be. She seemed changed, a light but yet peaceful smile on her face, stopping as she was allowed to be escorted out. Leaning her back to the wall, she closed her eyes, feeling the sunlight wash over her like the freshest of blankets.

Shonin Joka had definitely made a drastic change for her, showed her that it wasn’t all about what she wanted, what she thought. There was more to it than that. She had to push past all of those disgusting failures, move on, then make change in her life. Wishing for death was something that she once feverently requested. However, now that she’s been so close with a run in with death, she had wanted to live more than ever. However, at the matter at hand, some questions were running through her head. She really didn’t have much experience with Beast Clan members, and certainly didn’t know enough about their culture to be considered exactly knowledgeable about them.

The most she had was some information she was able to find within her time in Squad 9. Besides that, this was going to be a grand new experience. Why in fact, she’s never met a Beast Clan individual in person before, nevermind a clan leader. It was then that it occured to her that it might be a better idea to go through the portal, get a general bearing of the surrounding, and wait for her comrades to come through. That sounded like a fine idea. Standing up to her full height, Fukutaicho Senshi took a few steps, walked through the portal, and looked around her. What she would see was likely something that would enlighten her with the honor of seeing a whole new world, a world of wilderness unseen.

She'd wait until she either received orders, and or received her other comrades. There was a chance that no other Shinigami other than herself may be participating in this venture. Though, it would be somewhat more comforting if she had someone she knew to assist her in this mission. It seemed to be a massive importance to Soul Society to be able to study this new location, maintain peace with the Beast Clan which were becoming a bit of a unified civilization, and to understand how they function as a society. While she was indeed hoping there wouldn't be any violence in this whole ordeal, she couldn't say she'd be surprised if things did go down that route. Things were unpredictable, even in places that one was incredibly used to. Now that she was in a whole new world, things were bound to be the similar but the dangers countless. Well...Squad 12 certainly would be pissed if she failed, and that wouldn't be good. She was hoping at somepoint they could make her a new arm. 

SPOILER: Click to show

Stats:

Strength:(70x.6)=42

Speed:250

Spiritual Pressure:280

Reiatsu Strength:(400x1.75)=700

Light Aura:75

Dark Aura:25

Instinct:100

Senses:100

Energy Sensory:0

Wound Expertise:0



Total:1200









Skills:

Analyzing:2

Learning:2

Weapons*:2[Swords]

Martial Arts*:2[Aikido]

Battle Analysis:2

Mental Enchantation:2

Pain Tolerance:2

Kido:2

Damage Recovery:1

17/17 SKP

[Tsukuyomi Kawada]

"Remember Tsukuyomi every action that you make reflects on the family and on my judgement on whether to keep you around. I don't think I have to remind you that you're a phoenix now, but your flames can be extinguished at any moment I see fit." The old man spoke with his back to Tsukuyomi as he starred up at the sky. At the moment both of them were in the garden of the Kawada manor where Tsukuyomi normally liked to be alone. However, it had become common knowledge that this was the location that one would normally be able to find him and his grandfather knew everything that went on inside of the Kawada family.

"I know grandfather." Tsukuyomi spoke with venom in his voice and toxin on his tongue as he thought over how he was being manipulated, controlled and threatened by his only remaining direct relative. Everyone else in the Kawada family at best was a cousin whether they be close or distance. Although he was angry and wanted nothing better than to tell his grandfather off he knew that despite all of his training and experience that even if his grandfather didn't have blackmail on him he wouldn't be able to actually defeat the elderly man. He was one of the living elderly phoenix council members that overthrew the corrupt members of the Kawada and now led the family.

That did't mean the man was all warm and cuddly though. Tsukuyomi had known him going on two years now and that entire time his grandfather had shown him no sign of love or care. To him Tsukuyomi seemed like nothing more than a weapon with the same last name. So wishing to spend no more time with him than he had to Tsukuyomi bowed his head and then vanished with the execution of shunpo. "I don't think that boy will ever learn what it means to be a phoenix."



It would take some time to reach the portal to get into the newly discovered Beast realm now officially known as Eden by the time he finally got there Senshi had already gone through. Now though the Vice Captain of the Eleventh Division stepped through the portal ready to work alongside the same Beasts that his former Captain negotiated with in order to actually gain access to this newly discovered realm. He'd have to move alongside one of the alphas in order to find out just what this new city possessed and if they turned out to be enemies then he'd have to do his best just like in any other scenario.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats & Skills}
Strength: 75 (56)
Speed: 315 (473)
Spiritual Pressure: 400 (600)
Reiatsu Strength: 40(30)
Light Aura: 50 Points
Dark Aura: 50 Points
Instinct: 200
Senses: 150
Energy Sensory: 0
Healing Expertise: 0

Movement: (2)
Calm Mind: (2)
Acrobatics: (2)
Battle Focus: (2)
Lack Of Fear: (2)
Battle Analysis: (2)
Weapon*Swords: (2)

[Aramis Tezuka]

The Beast Clan, was it? Ahh... Well, that was what it was. Aramis Tezuka himself had very little interest in the Beast Clan. But with a portal to their world opening up, he would be forever shamed as the Head of the Research division not to have Squad 12 be among the first through the doors. Unfortunately, Squad 12 had few capable combative officers at the time. While the division had held off the attack fairly well, with all of the new security measures Aramis had been painstakingly putting into place, the Squad was not particularly notable at taking offensive action. The number of powerful members in the division were too few. So, for this new and dangerous escapade, Aramis himself would be taking to the field. An escort mission of relatively high importance. Well. He'd try to stay interested, even if his interests in research lay somewhere slightly more infernal.

The Squad 12 Captain stepped over to the portal and studied it. "Hmm..... Beast Clan studies themselves fairly exhaustive. Portal offers new opportunities... Yes. I'll have to study this when I return." He noted, stepping through the portal to join the others on the opposite side. He was at least a little intrigued by the prospects of an entirely new world. As for his comrades in arms this mission.... Odayakama Senshi. Fairly recently promoted to the rank of Vice Captain. Lost arm in battle with Hollow. Information on her Zanpakuto suggests a physical type that modifies its form and augments cutting power. Otherwise, kido specialist. He thought to himself, as he moved onto the next one. Tsukuyomi Kawada. Vice Captain of Squad 11. Member of the Kawada family, a family that places high emphasis on Kenjutsu skills. Fire type Zanpakuto on record. Limited information beyond that. Will have to study during the mission. A kido specialist and a swordfighting specialist then? Though Aramis could feel a considerable pressure from Tsukuyomi. Was he actually a reiatsu specialist? Aramis was still working on gathering data on many squads, and the Kawadas, despite possessing nowhere near the influence they had once had, still had enough to stonewall his attempts at certain points. A pity, but this would be an excellent opportunity to gain information on both of them.

Well. Aramis was ready to go in any case. Prepared and ready. He briefly considered bringing some of the devices he had recently managed to develop for the Squad, but for the time being, he decided to perform a preliminary examination with eyes alone. Future examination teams could be better equipped. Aramis joined the group, armed only with his Zanpakuto, and his arm shackle. Aramis did not cut the figure of a Captain. He had perpetual bags under his eyes, and his green hair was messy. His outfit disheveled. Only his glasses and his zanpakuto appeared well maintained, and he had a pale pallor of skin that indicated he didn't get outside much. Even his reiatsu, for those who could sense it, did not seem that impressive. Certainly lower than the other two Shinigami present. Not that either of them had the Energy Sensory to note that. And perhaps that was for the best, for the truly talented at Energy Sensory would notice a dark malice behind what would outwardly feel like a Shinigami's reiatsu, hinting at the Nakabakki's true nature, behind the farce that was his identity as a Shinigami. A falsehood that thankfully he was the last in Soul Society to be aware of. His own little dark secret. "Well.... I am here. Shall we cease our dalliances and begin?"

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats and Abilities}
Strength: 100 (60)
Speed: 400 (300)
Reiatsu Strength: 310
Spirit Pressure: 220
Light Aura: 100
Dark Aura: 0
Senses: 70 (210)
Instinct: 200 (600)
Energy Sensory: 100 (300)
Healing Expertise: 0
Total: 1400

• Martial Arts: Fencing—3

• Martial Arts: Joint Locks—2

• Analyzing—3

• Disguise—3

• Illusion Resist—2

• Lack of Fear—2

[Zeich Yajuu]

Three Shinigami were gathered for this mission, and all of them were of a high rank; two Vice-Captains, and the actual Captain of Squad 12. Soul Society valued this mission, by the look of it, and who could blame them? This was an entirely uncharted world, one that they had next to no data on it; even the Beast-Clansmen who were said to originate from it couldn’t give much information, merely fragments of memories that they couldn’t begin to clarify. What sort of resources could be gathered here? Were there any living beings in this world? These were just two of many questions that could be asked.

Stepping through the portal revealed the Shinigami base camp, a small tent camp set up on the edge of the portal from Seireitei. Roughly two dozen tents, each capable of housing three people in somewhat cramped conditions, were spread out in a messy circular pattern around the portal with a cleared area of about fifteen feet separating them from the entrance. Many of those present were from Squad 12, doing their job in researching this new world; some were taking air or soil samples to see if the spiritual makeup was different from that in Soul Society or Hueco Mundo, while others were determining if there was ambient Reiatsu present and its potential effects on those within the area. Yet another seemed to simply be jumping up and down, but it was soon obvious that he was testing to see if air ground could be attained despite it being a spiritual world like Soul Society. Certainly the camp was a bustle of activity.

As the three Shinigami entered Eden, they were met by one of the guards stationed nearby, one who bore a badge that indicated him as an unseated officer of Squad 13. Seeing a Captain and two Vice-Captains was obviously a shock, but the man quickly recovered and gave a salute to his superiors. “Captain Tezuka, Vice Captains Kawada and Odayakama, if I am not mistaken?” The man paused for confirmation before continuing. “My name is Takashi Nodochi, unseated officer of Squad 13. I am here on gate security, but I have been ordered to give you a quick debriefing on the situation here before you start your mission. First, let me draw your attention towards the camp in the distance.”

Takashi pointed to the west, indicating his subject. About two hundred feet from the Shinigami base, but still in sight, was a second camp that was set between two large hills to keep the wind off of them. There were no tents visible, just simple lean-to structures that used basic materials and cloth to stave off sun and rain alike without fully shrouding those who dwelt within. From their vantage, the newly-arrived escort would quickly determine that the inhabitants were a small group of about five leonine Beast-Clansmen, sitting with an almost predatory laziness to their motions, their eyes watching the Shinigami camp. Perhaps this is the group you were sent to escort?

“As I’m sure you’ve surmised, that is the Beast-Clansman camp for Clan-Leader Skofnung and his guards. They arrived yesterday and set up a makeshift camp despite invitations to join us here, and have been waiting for your arrival. They left instructions that you were allowed to simply walk in once you’ve announced yourselves, and that they will explain mission details more explicitly upon your arrival.” Takashi gave a light bow of his head before stepping back. “That is all I’ve been instructed to tell you. I’m sure you can hear the rest from them. Oh, and a bit of caution: his guards are a bit prickly. I don’t think they’d openly attack you, but show their leader some respect; they seem sensitive to anything they deem disparaging, and relations are still… tenuous at best.”

With that, Takashi waited for any responses, questions, or comments that required his attention. Aside from that, the group was free to depart at any time for the Beast-Clansman camp, to approach however they wanted.

-------------

“It seems that they’ve arrived.”

Golden eyes rose, their gaze cutting across the distance as their owner stared into the camp opposite his. Three Shinigami, it seemed, and all high-ranked; the watcher chuckled to himself, amused at the Shinigami’s excessive reaction to an escort request. He had expected a group of simple foot soldiers, not officers and commanders. How interesting. But in the end, it didn’t change a thing. For now, he’d watch and wait, and let them approach. How would they approach the one who was destined to be the King of all Beast-Clansmen? Would they approach with respective reverence, or criminal negligence? Either way, it would be interesting…

“Prepare for Shinigami approach. No hostilities, treat our guests with proper respect.” He quickly gave orders to his guards, telling them to stand down; despite their languid appearance, all four were ready to strike in a moment. Even a Captain could get overwhelmed by a sudden rush, and these four were elites among the Scylding Clan. But there would be no hostilities, not today; the Shinigami were their allies. No, if they approached, the three would find no guards, no challenge to their arrival; they would simply be allowed in once they announced themselves.

Skofnung smiled lightly as he watched, and waited.



((OOC: The one-week posting limit begins starting today; the next GM post will be on Wednesday, December 13th, and posts are due by then. There is no posting order, so post freely as you choose.))

[Senshi Odayakama (Crimson.)]

With the one armed Vice Captain waiting on the other end, she was able to see a small base of operations set on the other side of the world for the positioning of the Shinigami. A vast number of experiments were being performed and from logical assumption, the redheaded officer was able to discern all of these as members from squad 12. Stepping closer to observe the area, she stopped as she heard the steps of another individual not so far behind. Twisting her body, her eyes looked on to see a familiar face. They weren’t the most acquainted, but they have trained at least once before if she recalled. That was right, this was the Vice Captain Tsukuyomi Kawada, the current Vice Captain of Squad 11. She had met him when he was but a seated officer...fourth seat if she recalled. The only greeting she had was a bright smile with both eyes closed as she approached.

“K-Konichiwa! It’s been a while Kawada Fukutaicho. Would you happen to remember who I am?” She wouldn’t be surprised if he didn’t, but she’s been doing a lot of...ahem...stupid shit lately as some would say. Though, in actuality, she had lost her arm in a battle with a Vandenreich Sternritter as opposed to a Hollow. Yet, she was planning on heading to Hueco Mundo within a short amount of time as it was time for her to test her skills beyond the current level. She had heard of the horrors there and the powerful Hollow that tended to dwell there for the battle of evolution. The rest of her skills other than Kido were not on par with a seated officer. In fact, it was the only bragging right of a skill she had to offer. Hopefully it would be useful here.

There wasn’t much time to talk however as there was another step through the portal, and there came an individual that made her freeze. This would be the second captain she has ever seen in person, but when one is within the thirteen court guard squads, everyone should recognize at least the names and faces of thirteen individuals; the captains. Tezuka Aramis, the Taicho of Squad 12’s research and development squad. She supposed that there was no surprise that he would be here, but when he came closer to the two Vice Captains and mentioning the cease of dallying, the redhead’s eyes became dishplates for a moment. ’So blunt…’ However, quickly straightening herself, bowing politely, she nodded. “Hai Taicho.”

Respect, it was something that this man deserved for very few Shinigami had the potential to ever become captains. Quickly standing to the man’s right, her hand rested on her katana, a katana that was a bit of an absurd length, five feet long, which...if it weren’t for the inherent weightlessness of a Zanpakutou would be impossible for her to draw and use. As they continued their travel, they’d be stopped and greeted by a man from the 13th squad, an unseated officer. As the man in front of them gave a debreifing, she looked to the west to see what exactly he was talking about. Looking to the camp with the odd individuals, she was a little bit interested in their appearance, but didn’t stare for too long. He was open to questions, but Senshi at the moment paid closer attention to that one Shinigami who was attempting airground to see if it was possible in this world or not. She knew it was impossible in Hueco Mundo and Soul Society, but it would be invaluable here.

Afterwards, the financial Shinigami put her free hand on her chin. She was going to speak, but then found it might be a better idea to let the captain speak first. She wasn’t as important as he was, and she was but a newbie to the position. Tsukuyomi would likely ask some better questions than she would. Maybe that was just because of the touch of shyness that she had, but thinking before she spoke, she wondered how everything was going to go out. There were so many possibilities, so many new wonders, and yet she couldn’t shake off all feeling of insecurity despite having a captain to assist her as well as Tsukuyomi in this plight. ‘Hmm...likely the best choice of action would be to approach in a neutral but polite manner to state our purpose. Ask their leader the terms for when they’d like to travel, but we should head over immediately as to not keep them waiting. They are likely on a time schedule, and frankly so are we in some ways.’ That sounded like a decent reasoning. Now to wait for all conversation to end. Orders would be coming from the captain of squad twelve she assumed.

Taking in the fresh air, the sunlight, the environment around her, she took deep breaths in and out. It felt a bit richer for some reason, but maybe that was because of her imagination. The air here and the air in Soul Society really couldn't be that much different. Perhaps it was because of the wilderness and thrill of being in unexplored land. For some reason, the captain to her left seemed to feel warm, despite his dead and sickly appearance. Not that there was anything wrong being a man dedicated to work. He seemed dedicated by the fact of his skin, how odd he seemed, but she was odd in a number of ways too wasn't she? Eh. It didn't matter. Everyone here had a duty to do, and she'd do her best to fulfill it. 

[Aramis Tezuka]

Aramis examined the camp quickly, his eyes taking in the surroundings. Not just his physical senses but his spiritual ones as well. They both expanded out to encompass the camp, Aramis only paying tertiary attention to what Takashi was saying to them. The equivalent of skimming a page for important information. The Captain was then momentarily distracted by the camp in the distance. He glanced over, his eagle eyes instantly piercing through the camp. At only two hundred feet, he could make out almost every detail of the Beastmen. Aramis adjusted his glasses slightly, with his right hand. "Hmm..." He glanced around the camp again. The Captain procured a notepad from his robes and scribbled some notes. "Does this camp have appropriate security measures in case of hostilities? Squad 10 has been deployed for the camp's defense, yes?" He said, in an even tone that had the slightest edge of accusation if they were lacking appropriate defenses.

"The highest ranking Squad 12 officer on-site. Have them prepare a report for me upon my return." Aramis mentioned. "Remind them to be extremely detailed, and encourage theorizing appropriate progressions that can be made from what we've found so far." He added, before addressing the two Vice Captains. "The pack that does not know the strengths of its members will only succeed through luck." He told Senshi and Tsukuyomi. This was basically the Aramis way of asking the two to detail their strengths and weaknesses so that he could mentally prepare strategies to take advantage of them. "Miss Odayakama. Will your injury inhibit your performance?" He inquired, briefly, before turning back to the Beastman camp. "As soon as we are done here, we should begin. If one waits until November they will not avoid December snows." He said, articulating himself as bizarrely as could be expected from a Captain of Squad 12. "...But it is not a poor idea to be assured one is prepared for the journey first."

Aramis would have liked to check in with his own division before leaving, or at least a ranking officer. But he was not in charge of this assignment. Merely the highest ranking officer. Vice Captains were a high enough rank to warrant independence of Captains in other divisions and he knew they were free to take his orders as suggestions, rather than concrete demands. Squad 12, he trusted to be able to fulfill their duties and be able to provide him with information regarding the nature of the world. In fact speaking of which... The Captain abruptly turned and approached the shinigami attempting to test the Air Ground, potentially leaving right in the middle of Senshi or Tsukuyomi's answer. This could be seen as a rude gesture, but Aramis wasn't much for formalities. With his high level senses he could easily continue to hear their answers even as he walked away.

"And what have your findings been regarding the nature of reishi density. Can we solidify it to use it as platforms?" He asked.

[Tsukuyomi Kawada]

Stepping through the portal Tsukuyomi arrived in the new dimension known as Eden. Right from the portal the eyes of the young shinigami darted around scanning everything as he was effectively blind in this scenario and that wasn't something that he hadn't ever been comfortable with. Throughout his life being in an area that he knew nothing about had always been something that he wished to avoid at all costs. The ironic thing though was that he was more blind now with his eyes darting around the area gathering information about this strange new place than he had ever been when he had actually been blind and wondering the streets of the Ruckongai searching for food.

Right away though he picked up the sight of the grass and trees in the area along with the camp of the shinigami. He quickly counted exactly how many shinigami had been sent or at least were in the camp at the moment. He could see that each was hard at work testing different things about this new dimension, but his attention was grasped by a familiar face. The cute red head that he had faced down a few months ago in a training area when he had still been a fourth seat was currently right in front of him. He could tell based on her facial features at the moment that she recognized him which only made sense as she began to speak to him.

She spoke to him addressing him completely by official title and asking him if he happened to remember who she might be. "Odayakama Senshi." Tsukuyomi answered immediately as his eyes continued to scan from one section of the camp to the next and the dimension beyond the confines of the camp. It wasn't more than a few seconds when Tsukuyomi finally noticed the camp only a short distance away. He could easily make out the figures dwelling in that camp from his location with the young eyes that he possessed. Although he appeared like his attention was mainly elsewhere he was actually rather relieved that one of the other Shinigami assigned to this escort was someone that he had seen fight personally.

The major problem though was obvious as he caught sight of it with his peripheral vision. Senshi was missing one of her arms. He had read over a document awhile back about her being attacked by a Hollow and ending up in the Division Four barracks for a bit of time. In fact he had thought about going to see her on more than a couple of occasions yet the situation with his grandfather and the corrupt elders of the Kawada family had taken up his time over the last few months not to mention his duties as the Vice Captain of the Eleventh Division.

He was going to ask Senshi about her arm, but right when he began to open his mouth to speak again he heard the sound of foot steps coming from behind him. He knew to step forward and to the left so that he wouldn't be in the way for whoever had just crossed over into Eden. When he made the full turn around he saw that the entity that had just entered into Eden through the portal was the Captain of the Twelth Division Tezuka Aramis. It seemed that this escort assignment was being handled by an elite force.

Unlike Senshi the young Kawada didn't greet the captain with his official title or at all for that matter. He simply looked over towards the other camp that at the moment the Beasts were occupying. It was obvious who had been sent to escort the Beasts to this new area and all of them knew one another that was all that any of them needed to know at the moment. They had been sent here for a purpose and in Tsukuyomi's eyes that was the only reason to be here right now. "She'll be fine." Tsukuyomi snapped towards Aramis hearing him question Senshi's abilities as a Shinigami due to her lack of appendages.

Tsukuyomi knew Senshi's fighting style, zanpakuto and skill as a kido practitioner. She was more than capable of keeping up with those skills alone which for the most part wouldn't be effected by the simple lose of her arm. She was in a way lucky for such a thing as Tsukuyomi knew that he wouldn't be able to say the same about himself if he ever sustained an injury of equal value. What was done was done though and at present they all were needed at the other camp not this one. So Tsukuyomi began to make way towards the Beast camp walking at a moderate pace while keeping his eyes alter to any movement. His teacher had been the one to gain access to Eden for all of Soul Society he couldn't be a let down to her by failing in an assignment following her success. He was going to do everything possible in order to make this a success for Soul Society.

[Zeich Yajuu]

Aramis quickly took charge, reviewing the camp and ensuring that all was in order. The defenses were slightly sparse, unfortunately; though there were a few Shinigami from Squad 10 standing guard, there seemed to be a slightly lower number than one would expect for exploration of an entire new realm. Gaps seemed to be made up of Squad 12 researchers who took shifts in between their time spent studying and experimenting, but they were Shinigami like any others and could certainly take care of themselves.

As Aramis moved to speak to a researcher the man spun, quickly saluting his Captain upon spotting the man. “Captain! I’m sorry, but studies on the reishi in the area have been unproductive. We’ve analyzed the nature of it, and… well, quite frankly, it’s odd. The reishi density in the air is almost identical to that of the World of the Living, enough that it could be gathered and converted into platforms, but when we do it… doesn’t work. Well, ‘resists working’ is a bit more accurate. The reishi is very resistant to any sort of manipulation, whether it’s from creating air ground or absorbing it. Reiatsu from one’s own spiritual reserves works normally, but using the reishi in the air seems impossible at the moment.”

“Another oddity is that when we do manage to gather it up, the reishi itself seems insubstantial. All tests point towards it having proper density for use, yet when gathered it seems to slip away like mist. It’s like someone took a copy of the World of the Living’s reishi, copied its signature and readings, and then transplanted it here without any of the substance. Or something like that, anyway. We are working on creating hypotheses for it now, but as of yet, any research is inconclusive.”

A bit of interesting news; air ground was out, and the air itself seemed to have unusual properties. It resembled that of the World of the Living, which was another interesting note, seeing as there had been no known contact between the two realms as far as anyone knew. Yet perhaps there was one; after all, the Beast-Clansmen had to have some connection to have their souls come to Eden before continuing on the normal spiritual cycle. Perhaps this connection was the cause of the unusual reishi? Lots of questions, and few answers, but it seemed that it was unlikely that they’d be able to make use of any latent reishi in the area.

With his report given, the researcher went back to his notes to record the results of another test, leaving the party to consider his words and decide on their next course of action. Having checked on the status of the camp, that really just left them to check in with the Beast-Clansman delegation and prepare for departure once they’d settled matters among themselves.

Or so they’d thought. A muffled sound almost like a detonation could be heard from the direction of the portal, along with a cry of shock. A glance over would show the Squad 13 officer from before, Takashi, sprawled across the ground. Directly across from him was a black-furred wolf Beast-Clansman. The lupine seemed unusually irate, his body language screaming of aggression as he stood over the fallen Shinigami, and it wouldn’t be hard to hear the creature’s raised voice as all heads turned towards the commotion in the center of camp.

“...the hell do you think you’re doing blocking me anyway!? I’m a Beast-Clansman; I have full fucking right to this place even if I took your goddamn portal to get here! The next time you have the balls to get in my face, you won’t just get knocked on your ass, we clear!?” The wolf whirled and left Takashi scrabbling to stand from the dirt, conversation and questions following the Beast-Clansman as he strode through the camp. His expression remained as irate as before as he practically stomped past people with a hardly-veiled temper, a glare flashed at anyone who was daring enough to get within five feet of the beast.

Most gave him a wide berth, but as he got closer to the party some of the questions could be heard. “Was that Kido you used?” “What’s with the chains on your tail, are they a symbol of rank among your pack?” “Your Reiatsu aura is different from other recorded results from Beast-Clansmen, can we take some samples for study?” The queries seemed to range from a broad number of categories, some inquiring about Beast-Clansman hierarchy, some taking personal observations about the wolf’s unusual nature. The Beast-Clansman seemed to ignore them entirely, though his expression showed greater and greater irritation with each passing moment until he finally snapped, right at the edge of the camp and a short distance from the Shinigami delegation.

“Holy fuck, do you eggheads ever shut your goddamn mouths? I’ve got better things to do than entertain you assholes!” Starting off again, the wolf passed by the three Shinigami observing him, mumbling under his breath. “Goddamnit, why’d Odin have to pick me for this stupid escort delegation...”

As he passed, the party would get a better look at him. Despite the slight stoop to his stance that he had, the wolf stood a good foot and some above each of the Shinigami. Black fur covered him from head to toe, though glowing red runes could be seen along the fur of his uncovered arms. Around his long tail were scorched-looking chains that rattled with each motion, chains that both Aramis and Tsukuyomi would no doubt recognize from their own experiences with such. A constant scowl was painted on the wolf’s face as he passed them, and it didn’t seem like it would be fading any time soon, either.

It looked like their party had gained another member, albeit an unpleasant one.

[Senshi Odayakama (Crimson.)]

Odayakama Senshi too paid close attention to the words of the Shinigami researcher upon explanation that the reiatsu in this location was like the world of the living but odd in the sense that it seemed unusable for most cases. However, not many more questions would be asked as a sudden noise of explosion filled the area followed by the visage of a beastclansmen that had come via the Soul Society portal. Watching the man threaten the Squad 13 member, she placed her hand upon her blade handle. Though as he marched through their camp as if he owned the place, that was when she opted to look upon the wolf with a menacing eye, her presence exerting a menacing effect over the male as he passed. In a slight whisper, she called out, “You ought to be careful who you’re threatening.” Though she did not say it in a voice of malice. She was simply explaining that the Shinigami would not take such callous threats lightly.

Releasing her blade handle, she figured that no conflict was going to break out. She looked to her two other officers, one of which was superior for her thought process. “I believe that we should head to the leader of the Beast Clan now, stay neutral and to the point. I suggest that on this escort, I and Tsukuyomi-San will stick to the rearguard, the Beast Clan party will stay in the front, and you Taicho would stick to his back. As a secondary party...we are here more to observe than to participate.” Stating her suggestion, Senshi wouldn’t mind a bit of Tsukuyomi’s advice on this seeing he was the Vice Captain of Squad 13, the battle squad of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads. He surely knew a thing or two about battle that she did, but she had certainly learned a thing or two.

As for Aramis himself, he seemed to be quite the interesting fellow to interact with. She didn’t dare doubt his experience both in battle and leadership for he likely outclassed her in those areas in spades. His council was what would be absolute and for now, their target was waiting most likely. Assuming that the captain had no qualms with moving forward, she would follow towards the the Beast Clan outpost. What she wanted to know specifically is what they would need guarding from. Have they made contact with any of the individuals from this mysterious city? Or was there something else that would be engaging them? Only time would tell she supposed, and so perhaps her fellows would understand her eagerness to get the mission completed. Hopefully the young king of the beasts wasn't as unfriendly and prickly as the wolf, otherwise this would be an insufferable trip. Yes, she might enjoy the sights and the environment, but the people, oh they'd be real buzzkills. Hopefully that wasn't the case now.

[Aramis Tezuka]

Aramis nodded as his officer provided his explanation. "I see. Have we established whether or not the natural inhabitants of this world have been able to adapt to these conditions and utilize air ground regardless, then?" He asked. As they'd be going deep into unknown territory, having as much knowledge as possible was vital. "In any case, continue your work. Who is leading the research here? I will require a report immediately upon my return." Aramis noted. And then, just as with the Vice Captains, Aramis then turned away to return to the group in the middle of the officer's response. He took note that none of the Vice Captains had actually acquiesced his request for further clarification on their combative abilities, and so he made another quick series of scratch marks in his notepad.

".....Noted...." And then he turned his focus to the new arrival. A wolf-species Beast Clansmen. No... The reiatsu was subtly different. Aramis's eyes narrowed. That was a familiar reiatsu signature. One he would know better than anyone else. "Are you joining our group, "Beast-Clan", he asked the new arrival. "We were just about to depart." Aramis paused a moment to listen to Senshi's suggestion with regards to their formation with patience and a critical mind. "....No objections to this idea." He replied after some mental deliberation. "The Beast Clan are more apt for a frontal assault in any case." Aramis knew full well his own abilities were poorly suited for direct battle, and more for disruption and set-up. The Captain scanned the group. "Any further objections?" He asked, his dull eyes seeming to develop a piercing quality as he examined the other two. He would have to broach the topic of those chains with the beast clansman soon. Whether they were decorative or.... Well. ....The latter would explain the subtle differences in reiatsu that Aramis could detect.

[Tsukuyomi Kawada]

This new dimension dubbed Eden didn't feel any different than Soul Society from what Tsukuyomi could feel, but he knew that he wasn't someone that would have the skills to tell such a thing beyond the obvious differences. So it was actually a good thing that so many of the Division Twelve Shinigami were here right now testing out this new dimension. Tsukuyomi unlike most of the others though didn't have much interest in finding anything out about Eden. He was only on this assignment because of his grandfather not anything else.

He was getting fed up with waiting even for the short amount of time that it had been when the pitch black wolf Beast stepped through the portal with such arrogance and attitude. Although they were now in a different dimension that had only been granted access thanks to Kimiko Shihoin, Tsukuyomi had half a mind to simply draw Unum and show this wolf that the Shinigami here weren't to be pushed around. However, then he remembered that was exactly the same reason he hadn't sent any of his subordinates in to guard the Twelfth division. So many of them were fight happy that it wasn't wise to send them into a potentially hostile environment.

Thankfully Senshi was quick to make it clear that this wolf had better be careful with how he treated the shinigami. Tsukuyomi like Aramis listened to Senshi's suggestion of what to do during the escort and Tsukuyomi was content with her strategy. "The positions are fine the way you stated. Aramis has the best chance of getting the escort safe at the closest distance while being able to pick up any signs of betrayal. I'll stay in the back to provide a defensive wall for everyone while Senshi you focus on providing both support offensively and defensively with your kido. Let's get a move on." Tsukuyomi began to walk off towards the Beast camp waiting only a moment to look at both Aramis and Senshi and see if they wanted to add anything or challenge his statements.

He knew now that the pitch black wolf with the red glowing marks was going to be joining this escort and that was actually rather troubling to Tsukuyomi. He knew that Beasts had physical aspects normally far above his own and they were out numbered in this escort. A betrayal could be accomplished rather easily as Tsukuyomi didn't believe that even with three high ranked Shinigami present they'd be strong enough to survive in this new dimension. It didn't help though that based on the chains that that wolf wore and the markings on his body that he already knew there was a high chance he was just like him and the most dangerous enemy of all could make a surprise visit.

[Zeich Yajuu]

The wolf Beast-Clansman paused as he was addressed not once, but twice by the Shinigami delegation. Senshi didn’t even get a vocal response, though the lupine was happy to flip the bird at her for her “warning.” He wasn’t the type to give much of a damn about offending others, it seemed, as he quickly approached Aramis, his stance as provocative and aggressive as ever. His eyes flickered to the man’s haori, obviously noting his rank, but it didn’t change the wolf’s expression much. Instead of just glaring, he sneered. “Yes, Captain, I am joining the Scylding expedition.” The lack of swearing in that statement seemed almost forced, but he made up for it a moment later. “And for your information, asshole, I have a name. It’s Skoll. Got it, or do I need to knock you on your ass a few times until you learn it?”

Certainly not a pleasant individual. Well, at least Skoll was on their side… at least, hopefully. He seemed the type to snap at a moment’s notice, and that temper didn’t seem to subside as he stalked away, heading straight for the Beast-Clansman camp. Hopefully he didn’t antagonize their hosts before the mission started! Still, his approach didn’t seem to faze the guards, who just waved him in as he drew close. Skoll didn’t even acknowledge them as he headed into the camp, standing before a single seated figure at the far side of the camp.

Once the Shinigami approached, however, they were halted by one of the two leonine guards. As with all Beast-Clansman, these ones stood a good foot and some above regular humans. Unlike the slender and lanky Skoll, however, these two showed the strength that all Beast-Clansmen were known for in their muscular forms. Neither bore a weapon as they stood before the Shinigami party, yet both radiated potential threat as they glared down at the three approaching. It seemed that they weren’t about to let the three Shinigami approach without being questioned.

“You come in the presence of Pack-Leader Skofnung of the Scylding Pack. State your names, ranks, and reason for being here.” One of them spoke in a low baritone, but his words were clear and enunciated adequately; these were no simple Beast-Clansmen with the barest grasp of language. Intelligence seemed to be a common factor among the strongest and highest-ranked in pack hierarchies, so it said something if a Beast-Clansman as well-spoken as this one was serving as a mere guard and escort. Just what value was placed on the leader being guarded…?

[Senshi Odayakama (Crimson.)]

As the Shinigami walked to the base, after the coming of the rude Beast Clan member, the redhead proceeded to address the captain’s question from earlier. Though, it did seem like Tsukuyomi got to it before she did. “Ano Taicho. I am a Kido expert and am best with mid to close range confrontation. My Shikai is capable of defending and attacking equally as it is a physical type. I know most offensive of Hado, up to #91, Bakudo up to #81” That was all that was said as she wasn’t quite sure what more she should mention. There was only so much she could explain about her fighting style. Though, she did decide that she should speak for herself in terms of her missing appendage. Missing an arm would most certainly change her combat style.

“Because of my missing arm, I am handicapped in the sense I can’t utilize my Kido and my Shikai effectively at the same time for the most part any longer. As a result, if I may, it would be best for me to remain as a support for the group at long range with the Kido I have available.” Holding the sleeve that hung uselessly from her left side, the young woman missed it in a sense, but she knew she didn’t need it. She was the Vice Captain of Squad 8. A missing arm wasn’t going to keep her down, unless maybe it was signing paperwork. Then she could probably say that the workload was too much for her. Not that she was dreading stamping and reading hundreds of documents that is.

Upon approaching the Beast Clan camp, they were stopped, and so Odayakama Senshi bowed her head low, politely, and then decided to answer the questions that they had directly. “My name is Odayakama Senshi. I am Vice Captain of Squad 8. My reason for being here is to first provide escort and protection against any threats to the chief and then upon discovering this civilization discover if means of trade negotiation is possible as well as seeing if the pack leader would be interested as well.” It seemed odd, but the potential for it was most absolutely useful. To have a portal right outside the walls of Seireitei and a rich new world of resources to gain, it most certainly would benefit both worlds surely if negotiations were successful. Remaining to the right of Captain Aramis, she made her head low, to avoid eye contact and to seem less intimidating to the Beast Clan guards.

Trades were made by individual clans of Beast Clan members, this was true, but to continue and strengthen this diplomatic relation was quite essential and lucrative for the Shinigami to gain more supplies for day to day necessities. Plus, there may be new and valuable resources that may be exploitable to them. The Beast Clansmen were rather intimidating now that she thought of it. They were tall, looking rather muscular, and by the look of it didn’t need weapons to be fierce and intimidating warriors. She imagined their bestial strength and instincts were part of that, and that was fine with her. They were on the same side...for now after all.

[Zeich Yajuu]

((OOC: Due to the craziness and chaos of the holiday season, the deadline for this round of posting is postponed until next Wednesday, January 3rd.))