Lore of the Wild, Part Two: Eden-Bound

[Aramis Tezuka]

Aramis was somewhat relieved that no trouble had befallen the group at night. It satisfied him that he could at least have this much to rest and recuperate (or at least as much as he could), given his stirrings. He did not speak much, instead preferring to keep his focus on the group's surroundings so that they were not overtaken or attacked by surprise. He took in quirks of the group, such as Skoll's irritation and Tsukuyomi's agitation, as they traveled, until the at last reached the edge of the jungle. The reports had no lied. That was certain. The approach to the city was as clear as could be, and its size was impressive. It spoke to Aramis's mind that even this small glimpse had the Captain formulating plans on how they would enter it, and seek out their objectives in a city that vast. A part of him nearly deemed the task impossible. Well. No. Not entirely true.... He glanced to the rapier on his hip. Yes, that could work. Potentially. Assuming any of the group possessed a high enough energy sensory to withstand the effects of Revenant, it was possible that Aramis could conceal their presence for an infiltration. Possible, but difficult. But that was also assuming a worst case scenario where infiltration would be necessary, as opposed to possible negotiations.

The plains clearly worked to their advantage. There was little chance of any ambush en route, and so the oncoming Beast Clan were visible long before they reached them. Aramis picked them out well in advance, and it was clear the others had as well. He took stock of their appearance, but made little of it. They were Beast Clan. And while Aramis could probably have recited a basic description that might have fit into an encyclopedia, the Nakabakki possessed the wisdom to recognize the futility of that. It was pointless to try and ascribe academic details in this situation, and would not have differentiated them much from his present company. Instead, Aramis tried to put his mind to use ascribing tactical requirements. He took note of their wide formation. True, they may have been close enough to help each other, but it spoke to wild, chaotic fighting form, that they would have to watch they did not get in each other's way. More Celtic Barbarian than disciplined Roman Soldier. That didn't necessarily mean an inability to use teamwork-- indeed, as they appeared to be wolf-type Beast Clan, the idea that they couldn't use teamwork was absurd, but it did mean that extremely tight fighting could be an issue for them in a group setting. The armor piqued his interest as well. Armor was unusual for Beast Clan. Was it ceremonial? Effective against spirit weapons? He had a feeling he might be learning the answer to that question shortly. They seemed quite aggressive.

From their initial speech, Aramis picked up on a few things. One, that the city was named Babil. Similar to the name of the Earth city of Babylon, or perhaps the great tower of Babel? Is there a connection, or is this coincidence? He wondered. Then there was the name of their leader, "The Great One". Their hostility was not entirely unsurprising. Beast Clan were, afterall, not ironically, bestial in nature, and beasts of the world tended to be extremely territorial. Aramis was briefly considering his next move, but in that instant, an attack was initiated. Even his trained and honed senses barely saw it, and he was not entirely sure if he could have reacted to it in time had the attack been directed at him. However, it was instead aimed at Skofnung, who reacted in kind, with a strange transformation ability-- striking down and slaying his attacker in a single motion. Extremely efficient. An A rank response. Aramis noted, his rapier half-drawn in the space of time it had taken Skofnung to react and strike down his assailant. Only half drawn, however, and Aramis let Revenant hang as such, refusing to fully draw it, in such a manner that he did not continue to threaten the surrounding Beast Clan, but clearly wary, and could finish drawing it, were hostilities to continue.

Fortunately, this attack provided an opening for Aramis to open the floor to his own brand of negotiations. Before he did, however, Tsukuyomi stepped forward to offer his weapon as a peace treaty. Aramis didn't entirely agree with this. Disarming himself, would render them prisoners, rather than negotiators, and hinder Tsukuyomi's ability to protect Skofnung. "Keep our objective in mind, Tsukuyomi. A scorpion should not lower its sting, to a predator that has just struck at it." He stated to the Vice Captain, keeping his attention divided amongst the wolves around the group. "When two wolf packs encounter another, conflict is likely. And yet, the pack that misjudges the strength of the other, may find it may have been in their better interests to retreat." Aramis quipped, looking at the Beast Clan around him. "Beast Clan of Babil, today you have met with two packs. I hope that your former packmates aptitude at threat assessment does not speak for the rest of you." He intoned, turning his body ever so slightly, so that he was clearly facing towards the near-headless corpse. "Are you so certain you wish to start a fight with a power you do not yet know?"

Naturally, the same went for Soul Society and Skofnung's own pack. They did not know what awaited them at that city. But then. That was the entire purpose of their own visit here. To find out. The lack of knowledge, as far as Aramis was concerned, was mutual, and so a meeting with an official of some manner, could only be mutually beneficial, to prevent the weaker party-- if there was one, from picking a fight with a power greater than themselves.

[Senshi Odayakama (Crimson.)]

It was a rough morning to put it simply, and with herself awoken, Odayakama Senshi groaned, tried her best to look representable, went about getting her ready for their travels, and then followed after the group. The environment changed with scenery as they left the gigantic jungles and into a wide expansive set of plains. As was told, the gigantic city lay in the distance. “O-Oh…” Her lips curled into one of uncertainty as she walked forward, to greet these mysterious peoples. However, she didn’t do anything just yet. It was only when violence ensued, that sudden flash of speed, that Odayakama Senshi perked up, herself barely being able to grasp the handle of her blade as it was incredibly sudden. ‘S-So fast.’ Those speeds were top notch, possibly faster than most Shinigami of the Vice Captain level. However, within that same moment, that assailant died.

It was this time around that Senshi opted to release her blade, and with Tsukuyomi’s sudden response to surrender his weapons, she figured this was why they needed a diplomat like herself to step into the situation. She could feel her nervousness slide away as Senshi stepped forward in the center of the group, her right hand’s middle and index finger extended, but not pointed. “Tsukuyomi-San...I don’t think that this is a wise idea. We are not here to surrender. We are here to delegate and bring about peace.” It was ironic that she said such a thing considering already one had died before them. However, in that moment, she raised her single hand and looked to each of the Beast Clan before her, to address them. She had the feeling that if these beast clan members were any similar to Skofnung, they did not demand respect, but rather sought to earn it, and so she would not give them frivolous identities yet. She would simply address them as for what they were.

“Greetings the people of Babil. I am a diplomat that comes from a world that your people have likely never heard of. It is known as the Seireitei. The Soul Society. We are currently allied with the beast clan you see before you, and we as people are known as Shinigami. We too have come here, as a separate party to seek audience for alliance, trade, various such things as well as a trade of knowledge.” However, she then motioned to the two other Shinigami, the captain and her fellow Vice Captain. “We ask that you consider again. For you see, Skofnung of the Scyldling clan is again our ally. We have much to offer you, but a rejection, especially after an attack. Well, unfortunately we would be obligated to send not thousands, but perhaps tens of thousands...the hundreds of thousands of soldiers with powers that are not known to you.”

It was not a threat, but a promise, an understanding. However, she then made something else clear. “We are not here to fight you however. We are here to negotiate terms. Even if no agreements are made, so long as we can begin negotiation, it is a start. So, shall we please work on preventing the deaths of all of our peoples?” She tried to sound optimistic, but she instead found it very hard not to frown. Such unnecessary violence was something that Odayakama Senshi hated. Her argument attempted to appeal to them with the imagination of a world of vast resources, many things that they’ve likely never seen or heard of. There was then also the fact that likely, the Beast Clan of Eden have never seen Shinigami before.

The mission of the Shinigami here today was not only to make diplomatic relation, but to defend Skofnung. If any of the Shinigami here today were injured, say even killed, it could bring about catastrophe in this new world. It was for that very same reason that she wanted them to consider deeper. They were clearly isolationist, especially after seeing a group they have never seen before. However, with that statement made, she quickly stepped back, behind the lines of her friends. She was not a physical fighter, and unlike Skofnung, she doubted she could react to such a fast assault.

[Zeich Yajuu]

((OOC: Apologies for a bit of a long post, but had to get things moving while still setting the scene!))

The attack had been brutal and unwarranted, an aggressive action by a pack of guards that were overeager to draw blood. The strike had come out of nowhere, and though Skofnung had managed to stop it and slay his attacker, doing so had come with another cost: open hostility from the rest of the guards. Fangs were bared, and the envoy party was surrounded by at least six skilled Beast-Clansmen, seven including the leader. Sure, the two sides were fairly even, but odds were that any battle would leave either side with several casualties. Combat as best avoided, and the Shinigami recognized that, stepping forward.

Each had their own approach: Tsukuyomi gave the appearance of surrender, offering up his weapon as a sign of peace. Aramis raised a point of practicality to reason with their foes, indicating that the results could be as similarly messy as the first attack. Senshi, on the other hand, went for an appeal to mutual benefit, suggesting that working with them would be more profitable than working against them. While the messages were mixed, and confusion and uncertainty flickered in the gazes that each wolf shared with one another, at least they had not immediately attacked. If nothing else, this was a step in the right direction, hopefully at least getting them to stand down.

“Outsiders.” The captain spoke again, still outside the circle of his men. “While I understand that you are powerful, and that you may yet intend for a peaceful meeting between our peoples, you must also understand us: our people have stood on our own for many lifetimes, as far as we can remember in our history. In our time, there has only been Babil, under the rule of the Great One. In our time, there have only been our people. To see outsiders is to discover that there are others in a world that was once only ours, to discover that we are not the only members of our race in the world. To see that outsiders are powerful is to discover a deadly foe that could threaten the peace of our city. We do not welcome others, because we have known a way without them. Those of us here will gladly die while the gates close behind us, knowing that you will never enter, never pose a risk to our people. You may bring words of peace, but our way has never needed more than ourselves.”

“This is the word that the Great One has decreed: Babil is the home of our people, a shelter against the outside, belonging only to us. We will welcome no others, at cost of our lives if need be. Now, unless you wish to fight us to the last breath, I advise you to leave now—”

“Captain Retrix!” A shout came from the gateway, and a glance would show a single wolf running from the gateway at an impressive speed. Even without stepping techniques, the canine closed the distance in seconds, sliding to a stop and kicking up a cloud of dust. “Captain! Wait! I’ve got an important message! Don’t attack them!” Panting, the soldier took a moment to catch his breath after his sprint before continuing. “The… phew… the palace guard gave me written orders for you, Captain. Said they were for your eyes only, but that I had to get it to you as fast as possible. They also said to stand down.” Reaching into a pouch that hung at his side, the wolf pulled out a sealed scroll and handed it to the leader, who immediately opened it and scanned the letter.

The Shinigami would be able to read the surprise in the captain’s expression as he went over his orders. His eyes widened, then narrowed again, and his ears twitched in something that made them think of concern. There was a sort of tension to his stance, and a definite look of displeasure before he rolled the scroll back up and crossed his arms, considering in silence. After a few moments, though, Retrix spoke up, albeit hesitantly. “The Great One sends this message: ‘Skofnung of the Scylding Pack and his entourage are to be welcomed into our city, and escorted to the palace that we may discuss a union between our people. Ensure they come to no harm.’” There was a sense of distaste in the captain’s voice, but he gestured with one paw, and the rest of his men stood down.

“I… don’t like this.” Retrix admitted. “But the Great One’s orders are absolute. His unfailing wisdom and guidance have served our people since times long past, and He has never been wrong. Surely there is a reason for your audience being granted...” The wolf took a long breath, and then turned to walk towards the gate. “Come then. I suppose you are to see the Great One after all.” He gestured to the messenger, sending him ahead to inform the gatekeepers of the incoming party, and then nodded to the party. “Please follow me, and stay close. I don’t suppose losing you in the city would be looked upon as ‘no harm,’ so I would rather you keep in sight.”

The other soldiers fell in line, with three to either side of the party; only the back was left empty, but then again, the guards were down by one member, whose corpse still lay on the battlefield. Oddly, no one even glanced twice at it; perhaps they intended to retrieve the body later? Regardless, the thought was soon banished as the party passed through the front gate, getting their first view of the city of Babil.

Giant buildings made of shaped stone rose in large, squared-off blocks in all directions, with roads between them indicated by the scuff of countless feet that had passed through in the years. The buildings themselves seemed as though they were one solid block that had been carved, yet a closer look showed a slight texture that indicated perhaps some kind of heat applied to melt the stone. Perhaps larger blocks had simply been fused into a greater composite and then shaped after placement? Either way, it was an interesting and unique style of construction, and it showed itself in other places too. As the Shinigami passed beneath a large bridge that rose overhead, they’d see that it too seemed to be one enormous piece, fused into the ground rather than simply being anchored in it.

And of course, the people were there, too; Beast-Clansman of all species could be spotted watching with curiosity and concern. A pair of leopards leaned out a window to look down at the passing spectacle, while an eagle hid a pair of young chicks behind her wing despite their insistence at viewing the procession as well. Another small pack of wolves loitered about in an alleyway between buildings, and a couple of lizardfolk watched from one of the bridges. All eyes were on the party, and they’d feel the presence of hundreds of people watching as they passed by. There were countless numbers of Beast-Clansmen all around, it seemed, and in as much variety as any that had been seen in the other worlds.

The walk through the city took a good half hour, even taking a central road that led straight towards their destination. The tower that rose above the center of the city seemed to only grow larger and larger as they approached, the twisting shape about it rising above them like some kind of giant vine entwining itself around the building. Another wall surrounded the building, and this one was similarly guarded with a large force. Indeed, at least a score of soldiers stood before the entrance as the party approached, standing at attention.

Like the soldiers from the front gate, these also wore scaled armor that seemed to flow like a second layer of skin over their bodies. Unlike the wolves, however, these bore hooded cloaks of the same woven material that were attached to golden mask worn over their faces. Though the species beneath could not be seen, their face-covering masks were shaped into serpentine visages, with sharp fangs and golden scales that flowed into the emerald-green of their armored hoods. Though it was unknown what creatures wore the garb, the uniform would likely remind the party of nothing more than hooded snakes.

Retrix saluted as he approached, and his men followed suit. “Captain Retrix of the Eastern Gate reporting with the party of Skofnung and his entourage, as ordered.” One of the guards approached, and gave a dismissive gesture to Retrix. The wolf stiffened, but then saluted again before turning to his men. “We are to resume our post at the gate. Move out!” With practiced discipline, the unit turned and departed with a startling readiness. Though no words had been exchanged, it was clear that the wolves had been dismissed, leaving the envoy party alone with the palace guards.

The same guard that had sent Retrix and his men away then gestured to the party, motioning them forward wordlessly. Skofnung picked up on the signal quickly and started forward, the other Beast-Clansmen moving with him and leaving the Shinigami to follow through yet another gate that had simply opened before them. Soon they stood before the tower itself, one that seemingly rose to the heavens even as they stared upwards at its base. Like the rest of the city, the tower seemed comprised of a single piece of stone with the exception of the spiraling shape wrapped around it, but unlike previous construction, it seemed as if it had always been that way; there was no indication of fused material, only smooth stone as far as the eye could see.

The interior was no different, that same continuous flow of stone visible around them. As they entered the tower, they would pass an inner hallway that seemingly looped around, likely around the entire tower. Rooms branched out from that central hallway, though closed doors prevented the Shinigami from seeing what was behind them. Instead, they continued to follow the path they were on deeper into the tower, emerging into a central, circular room.

The chamber was massive, and the reason for it was obvious; five stone platforms connected to chains were arranged around the circle, the iron links rising upwards above them. A look upward would show the party the hollow interior of the tower, with platforms extended at each “floor,” and the stone platforms being used as an elevator system of sorts to travel between each level. Even as they watched, one platform ascended with two Beast-Clansmen pulling the chains through a pulley system, locking them in place once they had reached their intended floor. Simplistic, but an effective method of climbing such a large tower. Still silent, the guard guided the party onto one of the lifts, indicating for them to get on. Once they had complied, two similarly masked guards stationed at either side of the lift began to raise it upwards, allowing the party to rise to the higher floors.

Before long, they reached their destination, easily fifteen floors up from where they had started. The party was led into a large antechamber, a round room with a dais set into the back of it atop raised steps. There may have been a throne or similar at the top of the dais, but it was concealed by a mostly-opaque cloth. Six more guards stood at the base of the stairs, their golden masks shimmering in the light of torches set against the walls. It seemed this would be their audience chamber.

Their escort stepped forward, kneeling before the dais, and lowered his head as though in prayer or reverence. He stayed on one knee for a few moments before finally rising, at which point he simply departed the room, silent as ever. Fortunately, the party would not have to wait long, as a voice rose from behind the curtain.

“Be welcome, guests of Babil. I have been informed of your arrival, and of your wish to speak with me about the future of my people. Which of you is Skofnung, the leader of your group?”

Skofnung stepped forward, giving a light bow. “I am Skofnung, Great One, and I come here to represent the Scylding Pack and those who follow them. But while our meeting is important, I wish to pay a respect to my escorts who have come far from their city of Seireitei. Captain Aramis Tezuka and Vice-Captains Senshi Odayakama and Tsukuyomi Kawada have all chosen to serve as an escort for this gathering, and because of Soul Society’s willingness to send some of their strongest to ensure the success of this meeting, I would allow them to open the floor and introduce themselves and their peoples’ wishes as well.”

“Very well, then.” All three Shinigami would feel a weight upon them like eyes staring through them, an awe-inspiring attention focused on them. “Representatives of Seireitei of Soul Society, please step forward and speak your part. I wish to know more about the peoples who exist beyond my race.”

[Aramis Tezuka]

Aramis clearly understood the guard's position, as he explained himself. "Well spoken, nameless defender of Babil." Aramis answered. "We do not desire, nor intend to trample upon your ancient traditions. We are, if it pleases you, inclined to seek a compromise to this situation, if it will ease negotiations." He stated. They were at least talking now. Good. Where there was talking, there was a chance for diplomacy. Aramis was cold, and calculating, but he did not care for needless bloodshed. Even his own Zanpakuto emphasized defeating an opponent with minimal bloodshed, if possible. There was a time and place for violence and death. Being able to judge when and where that was, was an important quality in the Captain of the Research division. The leader of the wolf pack, continued, but was interrupted by a messenger, who seemed to deliver news that was in their favor. So, this Beast Clan's name was Captain Retrix. Upon hearing the letter, however, Aramis's eyes flickered about their surroundings suspiciously, and glanced at Skofnung. They know his name and pack. We've been watched? Skofnung, afterall, had only just given his name to Retrix. Unless, perhaps this Great One had some form of surveillance technique that let him be aware of everything his subjects knew? How they knew Skofnung's name already perturbed the Nakabakki slightly. Only slightly, however. Skofnung had already shown how formidable Beast Clan stealth could be.

In any case, it seemed they were to be admitted entry. "Your adherence to duty is to be commended." Aramis noted to Retrix, observing the speed at which he changed gears, and proceeded to follow, sheathing his sword once more. He adhered to Retrix's instruction, never failing to lose sight of him, and maintaining energy sensory. He ignored the strange looks his group received as they slipped through the streets, though did take note of all the various type of beast clan living within its walls. He also studied the architecture. A pity that we will likely not be permitted free access to study it. He noted. Based on their welcome, he had no illusions that anything more than a mutual peace could likely be acquired here today. A mild tolerance for Soul Society's presence. But well. He was also here to protect Skofnung, and that he intended to do, precisely as ordered.

Aramis kept up with Retrix right to the point that the guard captain left the group. He continued to study their surroundings. He didn't suspect foul play would come into the equation at this juncture. The Shinigami's power was still a huge unknown to the people of Babil, with the exception that Skofnung himself was a formidable enemy. "We are as well...." A sultry, but wicked voice hissed in Aramis's mind. "Yes.... You are. Pray I do not have to employ our strength." A wicked cackle whispered from the depths of Aramis's mind. "Pray? Ah... our humor is entertaining. Pray to whom? What benevolent God would take mercy on us?" To this Aramis did not answer. He merely focused on the task at hand, and followed their new guide into the tower before them. A single, smooth piece of remarkable architecture indeed.

And then at last they emerged into what Aramis presumed to be the central chamber. The chamber of "The Great One", no doubt. It had been an extensive trek through this place, but here they were. Was their quest at an end? He wondered. Or had it merely just begun?

The voice emanated behind the curtain. Aramis stared intently at it, wondering if, perhaps his own advanced vision might be able to detect some trace of who or what the Great One might be. His energy sensory was also on full alert, to determine varying traces of reiatsu and attempt to decipher them. But he was hardly ignoring the discussion at hand. When beckoned to do so, Aramis stepped forward. "I am Captain Aramis Tezuka, of Soul Society's Twelfth Division. I thank you for the hospitality you have extended us, and hope that our continued relations will continue to be so hospitable." Aramis was putting on his best here. Diplomacy... Eloquent speech. These were not his things. Aramis's approach to social interaction was not unlike a proper sociopath. Detached, academic and cold. He knew all the words, but did not truly understand the feeling behind them. Still. For this he could at least make an effort. This was, afterall, fairly important and he was a representative of Soul Society in this. "We of the Seireitei and the Thirteen Court Guard Squads are the balance-keepers of our world. We ensure that the cycle of reincarnation is maintained, and that the world is kept preserved and in balance. We protect that balance, against those who would seek to disrupt it, and plunge the world into chaos and destruction." He informed The Great One, giving a brief pause in case Tsukuyomi or Senshi wished to add anything in.

[Tsukuyomi Kawada]

Everything about this situation screamed that they were all in over their heads. Tsukuyomi wasn't the type of kid to rush into things without thinking them through which might come off as a shock to the others compared to what they had seen of him, but the idea of walking into this city full of unknown and possibly hostile Beasts after just killing one of the guards wasn't a welcomed scenario in the eyes of the young Nakabakki. He had offered his zanpakuto up knowing that he would appear weaponless this he wouldn't be perceived as a threat. When in reality even if he couldn't call Mikoto or Honshitsu back to him he always could surrender himself over to his inner darkness if it meant survival. That wasn't the course of action that they were walking down though as they were allowed entrance into the city by the so called Great One.

Placing both Mikoto and Honshitsu back on his hips Tsukuyomi went along with the others while inhaling long and quiet breathes of air utilizing his training to keep his heart rate steady and his mind fresh and calm. This was the kind of situation that could go wrong at any moment from virtually any sort of action. He was still amazed to see the details of the city not just the various species of Beasts that lived within its walls, but the mere structures themselves. He had always thought it marvelous how beautiful yet different the types of structures different civilizations managed to make and this was no exception. As he looked it all over the trip to see this great one fell short. All of the different thoughts that had to have gone together to build this city the way that it was could fill a library itself. After what felt little more than a few minutes suddenly they had already reached the destination of this assignment.

He had been following along with everyone else blindly. It was such an ironic moment that brought a twinge of anger to Tsukuyomi not directed at anyone around him, but this time inwards at himself. He had been born blind and suffered the state most of his life and yet when he had been able to claim sight he still wondered around blind to what happened around him. In the words of his grandfather he was still nothing more than a young blind boy who did what he was told to do. Although he didn't like it he realized that his grandfather was right about him just how much he was right about was troubling though. When the Great One spoke Tsukuyomi was slightly disappointed wishing to see beyond the cover and find out just what species of Beast he happened to be. Once Aramis spoke though Tsukuyomi knew he was next.

Stepping forward yet staying a pace back to Aramis's right Tsukuyomi waited for Aramis to stop talking before he began. "I'd like to thank you for giving us the chance to speak with you Great One." Tsukuyomi bowed his head slightly showing respect towards the leader of this city at least in the manner he knew how. "My name is Tsukuyomi Kawada. Vice Captain of Soul Society's Eleventh Division. Captain Aramis has told you the basis of Soul Society and our duty to keep the balance. We of Soul Society also seek to limit the movements of other major groups that seek dominance over other worlds and people such as this one. It's my hope that we may come together in order to continue the safe keeping of this fine world."

[Senshi Odayakama (Crimson.)]

When approached with the far more reasonable answer of tradition and standing alone for many generations, she could understand that sentiment. After all, Japan had been rather isolationist itself as was even Soul Society. To have foreign powers suddenly introduce themselves was odd, quite terrifying, and yet the Shinigami here had no choice. Though, they were very stubborn in their mindset, and that was something that Senshi wasn’t going to stand for just yet. Luckily, she didn’t have to, for they were allowed through the gates. The rise of her brow was the only indication of her fascination and there was no longer a need to speak. She walked through the gates along with the guards, and here she was introduced to a society of beasts.

The redheaded reaper would stick along the back, displaying her cowardly nature and uncertainty in this situation. She looked around herself, taking in the special immersion of this beast filled land. As they walked ahead to the tower distance, Senshi only looked on with interest and fascination as she took a deep breath in, put her right hand by her side, and looked around herself in utter awe at the interesting architecture and style of culture. They were soon greeted by even more guards, and they were to walk into the great tower before them as they were guided through interiors and halls. “Well, now isn’t this quite the fascinating development. How long do you suppose they took to make this? 100 years? A 1000? 10,000? Perhaps even a 100,000” She asked this in curiosity as since the existence of this world, it seemed all the people have known was the “Great One.”

She paused to allow the others to speak their diplomacy, and ultimately, it was Odayakama Senshi to appear last before his highness. Bowing politely, she’d slowly rise and speak in a voice that was not too loud nor too quiet as to speak with this great being. She’d slowly step forward, pulling on her long sleeve to hide her disability as best as possible. “I am Odayakama Senshi, Vice Captain of the 8th Division. As a people, we the Shinigami are not a race, but we are what were once known as humans. Upon death we became spirits, and for some of us, we have become strong enough to do as our job intended. I am the diplomat on behalf of my captain and have come to bring relation of trade to Soul Society and new sources of goods to your world as well. It’s a pleasure to meet you Great One.” She smiled nervously before slowly stepping back into line, obviously a bit nervous with being the center of attention for even a moment. Yet, there was something she wondered, something that itched the back of her mind. 

The guards before had mentioned that they had no need of outsiders. Yet, they did not assume they were the only ones that existed. Did that mean they had contact with outsiders in the past? She had thought about this as she considered the reason for their massive walls and the many guards set to guard them. She listened closely though to the proceedings of this meeting. After all, it was going to be a vastly important one for the Shinigami to gain resources from an entirely brand new world. Possible, they would get allies in the form of these beasts, and a strengthened relation with Skofnung and his kin. Well, Senshi was never too much of an optimist. She could only hope for the best possible result however. Or, she could prepare for the worst as well. 

[Zeich Yajuu]

Each of the Shinigami came forward to pay their respects, introducing themselves and describing their role as guardians of the various worlds. The Great One did not interrupt, letting each come up in turn and speak their part. Only once they had stepped back did he respond. “Thank you, Captain Tezuka, Vice-Captains Odayakama and Kawada; through your work, you have brought our kin to us safely, enabling us to regain relations with more of our kind. As a reward, we would ask that you spend the day and night here in Babil, where we will take our time to discuss the future of our peoples while you enjoy the bounty of our civilization here. We would be honored to have you as guests.”

“Your generosity is boundless, Great One.” Skofnung bowed again. “Letting in outsiders not even of our own race, and then extending the comforts of your city when your stated policy is isolation; truly we could not ask for greater benevolence.”

“Show them to the guest rooms, and see that they are treated with respect.” This was an order this time, rather than a remark to the gathered diplomats, and two of the guards that stood around the dais stepped forward, giving no response or even a motion of respect such as a bow. Instead, they simply proceeded to the doorway, and waited for the Shinigami to follow. Aron, Garath, and Vana also followed, but Skofnung remained behind. A questioning look from Aron caused the Beast-Clansman leader to raise a hand in dismissal.

“Do not worry; I wish to speak with the Great One directly about our situation—that is, if He does not mind?” The question was directed at the curtain, of course, and the group waited to see what the result was.

“Of course. Please, feel free to relax and enjoy yourselves until we have some time to speak, Shinigami. I will speak with Clan-Leader Skofnung, and then send him to rejoin you, if that is satisfactory.”

Aron and Garath exchanged their usual glance, but gave a nod of acquiescence before turning back to the door. Once they were ready to depart, the guards were quick to escort the party back down to the first floor by elevator. From there, it was a short walk around the outer edge of the tower’s interior before the guard stopped, gesturing to a short hallway that had several rooms in it. As always, the guards remained silent, without a word, and allowed the escort group to examine the rooms ahead on their own.

Upon examining them, it was easy to determine that these were small bedrooms intended for guests. They were laid out almost identically, a twin-sized bed pushed into a corner, a small wicker basket for clothing or other belongings, and a small stone stand that had a basin and cloths for washing up. Woven carpets of some unknown hair or fur covered the floor’s center, and it was evident by the lack of furnishing that most of the Beast-Clansmen were used to simply seating themselves on the floor rather than worrying about tables or chairs. The accommodations were simple, but it was enough for the Shinigami to use for rest if they chose to do so.

Of course, it seemed as though the others had their own plans. Aron and Garath announced their plans to go into the city and look around a bit, getting approval in the form of a nod from their guards, and offered an invitation for anyone else to go with them. Vana remained behind in her room. This left the Shinigami with several options; they, too, could remain and rest up after their trip, they could explore the town with the other Beast-Clansmen and learn more about the people of Babil, or they could even look around the tower to see what more they could learn about it, assuming no guards stopped them.

(OOC: At this point, players have several options for what they wish to pursue. Feel free to do a short post on reactions, thoughts on this post, and where you choose to go, and then confirm in an OOC at the end of your post what you choose to do. We’re getting close to the action though, I promise!)

[Tsukuyomi Kawada]

There was to much going on at the moment Tsukuyomi believed for him to address the Great One. This wasn't the time to ask for anything on behalf of Soul Society. The best choice he believed was to go along with what the Great One wanted to do at the moment. He wished to speak with the leader of the Beasts in private while all of the shinigami were brought to guest rooms. It was quite strange that there were guest rooms though. That much was something that Tsukuyomi immediately thought was strange yet didn't voice. There was a worst case scenario, but if that was what was going to happen then even if he could see it coming there wasn't anything he could do about it until it began.

Damn why was he constantly in such dangerous situations. This was he didn't care for anymore than dealing with his own internal problems. If he acted to early than he could be besmirching Soul Society and ruin any kind of partnership with Eden. If he simply waited and this was turning into a trap than he risked dying. This was going to be difficult and more than likely he was going to die here in this strange new dimension away from everyone he cared about and believed cared about him. He sighed slightly as he began to walk away with the guards towards the guest rooms. "Well even if I fail and am killed here it's no different than what will most likely happen once I get back to Soul Society." thought Tsukuyomi as he calmed himself and fought off the rising emotions in his soul to steady himself and remain vigilant.

[Aramis Tezuka]

(ooc: FINALLY got some ideas and muse and time to write this one out).

Patience was one of Aramis's strong suits. Boredom? What of it? Aramis knew it very well. Growing up, he'd been stowed away in a tiny room not much larger than a cell. A handful of books his only company. Books that didn't even change. He had devoured them (figuratively!) by the time he was 12, and he hadn't been released to attempt to join Soul Society until much later. Passing the time staring at walls, or contemplating everything.... Aramis knew patience oh indeed. A prisoner's life taught you this. He could wait on the Great One. A day and a night in Babil? Though ARamis's research called to him, the Nakabakki knew he had to accept. It was only proper. "And so the leaves are blown westward." He mused, taking a long moment of silence, respectfully, before standing. Well. The city may have some merit. It was a powerful structure. Analysis could be important, both for military and assimilation purposes. The structure in particular intrigued Aramis. Had this all been carved from a single stone? It seemed improbable. But little truly was, in this fantastic world of theirs.

It suddenly occurred to Aramis that perhaps he was supposed to thank the Great One? Expressing gratitude was apparently something people did for showings of hospitality, and it was not merely for the virtue of the Shinigami's argument afterall. "I thank you for this opportunity, Great One. I shall do my utmost to make the most of it." Aramis responded in the same tone he had used before, and throughout the entire venture thus far. It made it.... very hard to tell what the Nakabakki was thinking at any given times, and his blank, yet somehow intense stare didn't help one decipher his thoughts. It was as if he was staring directly through your soul, and yet entirely nonchalant about what he was seeing.

At Skofnung's request Aramis rose. "I see no qualms with this." He noted. "No doubt you have much to discuss. I will retire then." He suggested, glancing at Tsukuyomi and Senshi. "Let us take our leave then." He suggested, turning about to depart the room. Aramis had much to discuss with Senshi at least. Aramis followed their guides to their guest rooms, being careful to memorize exactly where they lay, and how he might locate them. At the same time he studied the stone of the room. Walking through the guest rooms, Aramis took his time to oversee any potential windows that may have allowed him to gaze out upon the city, and note any particular land marks. "...In any case, provided we are not summoned pre-emptively, I would like to propose we shall meet again here at nightfall. I've a matter I would like to discuss with you, Miss Odayakama." Aramis informed her. "In the meantime, I have my own matters to attend to. Please excuse me." Aramis exited the guest rooms and headed down to explore the city. He fully intended to get as much information on the city's layout as possible, as well as take some time to see if he could discern anything of the building structures.

(ooc: Aramis will be wandering the city, to figure out the layout of the immediate vicinity of the tower).

[Senshi Odayakama (Crimson.)]

As they were presented with the idea of freedom to wander, to explore, to gaze upon the great city of Babil, she was fascinated and yet charmed by the idea. There was a little gnawing voice in the back of her head that suggested against it, but it seemed they would only have this brief period of time to greet the world and the people around them. Bowing her head low, respectfully, not gazing upon the man, she figured it would be disrespectful to be staring at the great beast before them. "Arigato Gozaimasu. Great One." When presented with the rooms, she widened her eyes a smidgen at how nice it looked, but turned herself to Taicho Aramis. He wanted to speak with her in some personal matter? Tilting her head, she gazed at him deeply, then blinked in surprise as she quickly composed herself before she tripped.

"U-Umm...Hai Taicho." She didn't expect for the man to want to speak with her out of all people. She was the most boring person here wasn't she? As he wanted to head on out, she gazed briefly to Tsukuyomi, the Vice Captain of Squad 11. Looking to him, she put her hand on his shoulder, gazing upon him before she wanted to leave. "Kawada-San. Would you care to go out with me to see the city?" It was an innocent question, one that hopefully wouldn't startle him too much. Assuming he agreed, she turned towards the doorway and walked out of this great bastion of power, out into the city they had briefly caught a glimpse of before.

As she walked though, she talked to herself. "Ne-ne...I wonder how their schools are here? Or their market? Or how their economy is. I bet they have lots of yummy food here too if we could afford it." With a soft sigh of curiosity, she walked forward, trying to keep Tsukuyomi calm. She had already told him her lips were sealed, and as a result, she wasn't about to go around shouting things. Her mind briefly dwelled on what Aramis may want to talk to her about, but as she continued on, she'd gaze around and take in her surrounding. The architecture, the smells, the people, and especially the people. She knew not everyone would take kindly to these new odd people in their city. That was how Soul Society was too in a similar extent.

Her hand was not on her blade however. People would surely not target them under the authority of this great one of theirs, and she had no doubts that people would be more curious of them as opposed to threatened. It was true they held weapons, and it was true that little was known about them, but by showing they weren't openly looking to kill everyone around them, hopefully they could refrain from causing pandemonium. "So umm...Kawada-San? What do you feel about the city? How's your life been since we last met?" Just a small conversation opener to get the man to speak up a little bit if he was so willing.