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Bleach: A New Era

Rukongai

0 INK

a part of Bleach: A New Era, by Polarisbear12.

The place where the regular folk reside.

Polarisbear12 holds sovereignty over Rukongai, giving them the ability to make limited changes.

463 readers have been here.

Copyright: The creator of this roleplay has attributed some or all of its content to the following sources:

http://bleach.wikia.com/wiki/bleach_wiki

Setting

Rukongai is divided into 320 districts (80 in North Rukongai, 80 in West Rukongai, etc.), each numbered in descending order on how far they are from the center; this results in the higher-numbered (and farther) districts decaying into slums.
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Rukongai

The place where the regular folk reside.

Minimap

Rukongai is a part of Bleach: A New Era.


Setting

7 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: NPC Sheet Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

On a night such as this one could surely expect those in Rukongai and Sereitei were relaxing in the cool air. And it was true the crickets provided for a harmonious noise, occasional bursts of laughter rang in the air. The cool silence was calming to many in the Rukongai, it spoke volumes to them almost promising that there would be no danger for that night.

However it seemed like a small group of Shinigami thought otherwise. Considering the serenity of the night the group had been hoping to relax with some of the more suspicious characters in the Rukongai. They had been tasked to search the wilderness of the Rukongai of any Hollows. Lately the few who lived close to the forest had been complaining of strange sounds and shadowy figures walking through the woods. It seemed the group of nameless Shinigami had other plans. They had made sure to sneak in a few alcoholic beverages and even now were taking swigs from their last bottle of sake. But they were aware of their orders so they did look for any Hollows just not in the way one should.

The group stopped where they were, it seemed the majority of them had become a tad bit tipsy. As was notable by their flushed faces, slurred speech and bumbling steps. One man sat down but as soon as he did a jumble of sounds erupted behind him. He shot up reaching for his zanpakuto, he glared into the dark while his friends laughed. "It's just some animal I bet" said one man, he merely grumbled to himself and was about to sit back down when something flashed out of the darkness. A large white hand grabbed him from behind, engulfing his head completely and pulling him back into the dark.

The tipsy shinigami barely had enough time to yell. By then the rest of his group stared at the spot he had just been, one of them even dared to venture closer asking for him to come out. That was a grave mistake on his part as that same white hand, now bloodied, grabbed his head and pulled in away. The remaining shinigami stared in confusion before the sounds of their comrades being torn apart reached their ears. Stiffening it wasn’t until the creature that had taken their friends burst out of the forest did the remaining shinigami flee. They ran as quickly as they could but they lost one more comrade, so now there was only three of the six shinigami left.

The trio entered a clearing slowing down to a complete stop as they regained their breathing. One of them looked up towards the deathly woods they had just escaped, “Do you think we lost it?” turning to his other companions who merely gave out raspy replies of hope. “Call for a Jigokuchƍ and send the squads a message. They need to know what happened.” wheezed one of the men. “Yeah send them one, we’ll keep watch.” Nodding in response he summoned a Jigokuchƍ and began to relay his message. “May I have your attention, and please listen carefully. We have-“ the man never finished relaying the message as screams erupted behind him. Looking back he saw his remaining comrades torn apart by some sort of grotesque creature, however he never got the chance to have a good look at it or to even finish his report before he too was dead.

On the other hand the Jigokuchƍ, unaware of what was occurring around it, had recorded the sounds of the brief and sickening struggle. It flew off to its designated direction even though it carried a broken message; it fluttered in the sky almost disappearing in the dark night. No one that had encountered the creature that night knew what killed them. Only the moon daring to shine its luminescent light on the clearing bore witness to the slaughter that occurred under its watch.

The Next Day


Talk of the Jigokuchƍ relaying the unfinished and disturbing message spread like wildfire amongst the many squads. None wished to investigate further while the Captains did their best to calm their men down, with elaborate and sometimes short speeches. However it did seem to stick in the minds of some, especially those in the 13th division. Their Captain, Kira Hanakonawa, managed to calm many of them down but was given orders from the Captain of the First Division to stand down while they prepared for a meeting. Sadly due to the many duties a Captain would have to fulfill it will take a couple days for them to get around to it and some of the Captains have simply considered the deaths of the nameless shinigami to be the result of drunkards being attacked by a hollow.

Setting

1 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by Citadel
A few members of the Sixth Division were in charge of sweeping the exterior of the barracks. Naratsuki was a part of this group, but while the others worked, he used his broom to hold him up while he took a nap. His fellow Shinigami had already awakened the young man three to four times, so by now they were over it. However, one decided to get a little bit of fair play, tipping over Naratsuki's broom an causing the red haired man to fall face first on the ground. He awoke violently, rubbing his forehead and looking at the others. "Come on guys, violence is never the answer. I mean, we're just wasting time doing this anyway. We sweep up the dirt, and more dirt falls. Its like a never ending circle. So, why don't we just skip this go see if we can wrangle up some food. What do you say?" The others just rolled their eyes, unsure of what to make of the newest edition to their Division. Naratsuki, or Ki as he preferred, was lackadaisical to say the least. It wasn't a lack of pride in being a Shinigami, but more so a lack of desire to change his general outlook in order to conform to what people expected out of a Shinigami. Ki stood up and dusted himself off. Grabbing his broom, he began to "kind of" sweep the area around him, rarely even touching the ground with the bristles.

The morning past without much of a difference from any other morning since Ki left the Academy. Which, to be honest, Ki was perfectly content with. He hated silence, but there was a difference between silence and excitement. Ki found himself comfortable in this happy medium. It was in the early afternoon when Ki finally managed to sneak away from his work. He began wandering around the halls of the Sixth Division Barracks, twirling his broom and occasionally tossing it up in the air. "Excuse me?!" Ki heard behind him, turning around to see a Seated Shinigami addressing him. "Where is your Zanpakuto?" Ki's hand gripped the broom tightly enough to the point the handle started to crack, despite the fact he was trying to hide his emotions. "Oh, I must have left it in my bedding. I can't believe I forgot it." The Seated Shinigami sighed, looking at Ki with apathetic eyes. "Well, go get it. Don't let me see you without it again." Ki merely nodded, turning around and continuing his path down the hall. He realized he would have to go retrieve it, no matter how much he didn't want to.

Ki stared down at his Zanpakuto, the sword leaned up against the wall next to his bedding. It was uncommon in appearance, looking as though it was an ancient sword that had been buried for a very long time. The scabbard and hilt were in bad shape, the guard even being half missing. Ki slowly reached out to grab the sword, hesitating as he did so. Beads of sweat began to trickle down his forehead, his lip quivering and his hand shaking. After standing there in silence for a few moments, he grabbed the sword with his left hand and took a deep breath, thankful it did not do the usual thing he had grown accustomed to. What that thing was, he did not have the will to say. Clutching the sword in his left hand, he began to make his way out of the living quarters, but the sound of voices heading that way caused him to stop moving altogether. "Crap, I hope it isn't the others looking for me. I thought I ducked out pretty smoothly." He calmly moved closer to the door, listening in on the conversation to see if he should be worried about the repercussions of his actions.

"Did you hear about what happened to those Shinigami?"
"What, the ones from yesterday? Man, you know you can't listen to rumors like that."
"What do you mean rumors? Everyone knows they were killed."
"It was probably their own fault. Getting drunk and going out into the wilderness. They should've known better."
"Wow, that's harsh."
"I don't have time for people like that. I guarantee they would still be alive had they not been so foolish."

The two continued their conversation as they made their way down the hall. Ki had heard the rumors, but this was the first time he had actually paid attention to what was said. Funny, that it would only get through to his head when it was a conversation he was eavesdropping on out of fear of getting caught avoiding work. Giving a few more seconds for the coast to be clear, Ki exited the room. He didn't really know what to make of what he just heard. In the Academy, the instructors would step in if things got too hairy, but now there was no training wheels. Hell, even in the Academy, Ki was one who constantly avoided training exercises or missions. Those Shinigami had experience, and they still died anyway. If one would to describe how Ki felt about it, indifference wouldn't be too far from the truth. There were many people within the Divisions, and just because they're Shinigami does not mean he valued their lives anymore than he would value a strangers. Ki spent the rest of the day wandering around the Barracks before eventually deciding to head into Rukongai to meet up with his friends from the Academy.

Ki was the odd one out of the group to say the least. The others were all strong, independent types, whereas Ki was far more of a "go-with-the-flow" guy. One would wonder how he would end up being friends with them, but to that Ki would simply say that being friends with people who are the same as you would be boring. Ki arrived at the bar in the 40th District of Rukongai. It was called Shining Star, and Ki had never been to it before, despite his love for all things alcohol. Ki arrived at the bar, looking around to see that he was the first one to get there. Picking out a table large enough for six people, he sat down at the far end of said table and immediately put a drink order in. While he had spent most his time goofing off, he was sure most of, if not all, the others were taking their new lives at least somewhat seriously. He was interested to hear any stories they had to share about life within their Divisions.

Setting

2 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri

Earnings

0.00 INK

Ryuu Shosuke


As per every morning the sounds of steel clashing and ringing replaced the norm of chirps and twitters from nature, at least in this particular area. A certain red head wondered the halls in the early morning taking in the sounds and smells of her new residence. Despite the fact that it seemed that she was wondering aimlessly, one could tell the woman had a purpose by the straightness in her back and serious light in her eyes. It didn’t take her very long to reach her destination which turned out to be one of the many sparring areas in her division. Today she wore her still surprisingly new looking uniform; in her arms she carried a ridiculously long zanpakuto yet it didn’t seem awkward at all in her slender arms.

Stepping into the tightly packed ring of dirt, already there were other shinigami crowding around, awaiting a good show to be put on for their entertainment. Of course that wasn’t the reason the red head was there, rather it was the result of an unfinished argument the night before that involved a rather large man who thought it wise to make a move on the red head only to be rejected in the most humiliating manner. Scowling at those who have gathered round the red head picked at a thread in her uniform that had become frayed. Suddenly the sound of hurried feet mixed with a series of grunts could be heard in the otherwise serene silence that could have also been tension forming in the air.

The large body of a man, rumored to be twice the size of the red head that stood defiantly before him even when compared to her already tall stature, and rather scary face stepping into the sparring ring. The man didn’t look all too happy with that look of drowsy annoyance on his face. Raising his one of his large beefy arms, the monster of a man snapped his fingers together. A much smaller man, who like those around them bore the same uniform yet it, was obvious he had chosen the wrong division to be a part of. Meek in appearance he carried with him a katana worthy of being wielded by a man as large as the one before the red head. Taking it with a grunt, the man glared at the boy who gasped and ran away to who knows where. “Are you ready to meet your fate woman?” she merely looked up at him with a cool and uninterested gaze which angered him. “Damn you Shosuke, you know what’ll happen when you lose right? When I win you’ll be my girl.”

Ryuu shivered at the idea of having to associate herself with this monster and she allowed the disgust she felt to freely display itself on her features. At the sight of this the onlookers laughed yet were silenced by the glare of the monster. “And when I win, you have to admit being a cowardly ruffian and resign from the Eleventh Division.” a coy smile danced on her lips. Ryuu looked up at him and it was obvious by the relaxed stance she took of how lightly she was taking the situation. This infuriated him to no ends yet it made him lust for this woman all the more. With a yell he lunged for Ryuu, displaying his zanpakuto for a brief moment before swinging it downwards in such a way most would have normally buckled under the weight of. However Ryuu was not like most as her slender body gave off the idea she was weak when in fact she certainly wasn’t.

A loud clang was heard as metal met metal which was soon followed by a screeching sound. The onlookers grimaced at the horrific sound. At the speed he had been going a small draft had been formed so some dust flew up into the air blocking the view of the two opponents in the ring. After a few seconds had passed the dust settled and what they saw was a shock to them, especially Ryuu opponent who merely gaped like a fish out of water. Ryuu had brought her zanpakuto up, unsheathing it in a matter of seconds before Raigen’s own sword clashed with her own, but it was the fact that she was still standing that surprised them. Many who have gone against Raigen lost not because of his lousy swordsmanship but because of his immense strength. However in this case it seemed he was evenly matched and the only way one could tell was that Ryuu’s knees were bent slightly to avoid injury to her knees.

“Is that all you have to show for me? Raika can swing a zanpakuto with more power behind than what you just showed me.” she said with a smirk. Making a blustering noise of annoyance, Raigen immediately saw the folly in his assumptions and reverted to foul play by kicking up dirt into Ryuu’s face. in response she quickly lowered her free arm to wipe away at the dirt however Raigen didn’t give her a chance to do so, at least he hoped so. Swinging his sword again but this time so that it was aimed for her midsection, Ryuu knowing that wiping the dirt away was futile kept her eyes tightly closed. At the last minute just as she felt the pressure of his sword moving towards her Ryuu ducked and rolled with the swing of his sword. The moment she had her bearings she stood up and swung her sword, daring to open her eyes just enough to catch a glimpse of his general location. That however did not work as he merely blocked it with his sword seeing as she was unable to apply much power behind it. Ryuu now knew where he was and couldn’t help but smile for she knew the fight was going to end soon.


]Let him think he has the upper hand, was the only thought that ran through her mind clearly enough for her to register. “So throwing dirt in your opponents face huh? I guess you really are a coward.” Ryuu was well aware she was pushing his buttons but it was necessary for what was to happen next. The crowd had grown since the start of their fight and they now laughed at Raigen whose face turned a tomato red; both from embarrassment and rage. That was the second and last mistake he made in dealing with Ryuu, allowing his emotions to guide him he lunged for her but she was no longer there. In the time it took for him to realize this Ryuu was already behind him reaching upwards for the top of his robes. His body stiffened which made the impact hurt all the more as Ryuu swept his leg out from under him and ended it with him slamming into the ground in front of Ryuu. Still in the last throwing position she straightened up and reached for her sword.


Ryuu spit into her hand, which discouraged some in the crowd, and wiped at her eyes. Although she had managed to get rid of enough dirt for her to see him decently enough, the remaining amount was bugging her. Glaring down at him, Ryuu pointed the edge of her sword at his throat. Raigen at the moment was momentarily unconscious but today was the exception to one of the ideals she held in such high regard. His eyes thankfully fluttered open and his face paled as the situation at hand finally processed itself so that he could understand. “I win, now say it.” pushing Chomeksu closer against his skin so that a small bead of blood slid down his throat. Raigen merely gawked at her as sound failed to get past his spluttering lips. With a sigh Ryuu rolled her eyes and pulled Chomeksu away and back into her sheathe. “I better not see you again, little man.” With that being said, Ryuu turned on her heel and walked away.

Just as she was leaving, the crowd erupted in joy at the sight of Raigen finally being bested by someone. At the same time those who supported him sent icy glares in Ryuu’s direction. Shrugging her shoulders to show her indifference, a scowl found its place on her features as she walked left the area. As soon as she was far away enough Ryuu stopped to inspect her clothing and found that it was quite dirty and so was her skin. “Tch now I have to get a new uniform.” frowning, Ryuu headed to her quarters to get the spare uniform before she headed to the baths.

The young woman cared not for the company of others so she made sure that the bath house she went to was more or less empty. Slipping into the hot water Ryuu let out a contented sigh, leaning her head back to gaze up at the steamy ceiling far above her. Closing her eyes Ryuu certainly seemed feminine in that moment, almost vulnerable to attack even. The sound of giggling and quiet chitchat caught up to her. Peeking out through one eye Ryuu rolled her heads forwards to see who it was that had entered the bath house. A small group of small and petite, including a rather large one, could be seen through the billowing steam. Frowning at the idea of having to deal with the more feminine members of her division Ryuu slipped deeper into the water so that only everything above her nose could be seen.

Ryuu quietly moved away from the group as they entered the hot water. Their own sighs and occasional fits of giggles were enough to make the red head go mad. She made sure she wasn’t in their view but considering her bright hair Ryuu wouldn’t be surprised if they caught a glimpse of her. Closing her eyes again in hopes to resume her relaxing mood from before their conversation drifted over towards her as they spoke loud enough for her to hear them.

“I heard it was some guy from the Rukongai.”
“nah that can’t be, no one in the slums could possibly do that.”
“Are you sure, they told me it was hollows.”
“But how could they have possibly been killed by a hollow?”
“They were drunk if I remember correctly. Well serves them right for taking their job lightly.”


Her eyes snapped open and all she could do was stare at the ceiling with such intent you’d think she was trying to bore holes into it. For a brief moment, panic over took her as she considered the worst. Finally Ryuu stepped out of the water and quickly walked in their direction. Guessing from their squeaks of surprise they hadn’t realized she was there, or it may have been the scowl that was on her face. “Which squad was this? What were their names?” They merely stared at her as if she were crazy but they eventually answered, “Um I think it was some shinigami in the 13th division, but I don’t know who they were.” Ryuu stared at her for a bit longer before standing back up and walking away. Biting her lip Ryuu quickly got changed, The 13th division is where Joel was stationed at. He couldn’t possibly have been the ones who- Ryuu froze momentarily at the idea of her friend being killed by some hollows but she quickly shook her head. No that’s impossible, he wouldn’t dare drink on the job. He’s smarter than that,” she eventually began to think aloud much to her dismay.

For the rest of the day Ryuu’s thoughts were preoccupied with the thought of Joel being dead. Out of the six of them she’d think he would be the last person to get killed especially considering the circumstances of their deaths. “Not unless he was foolish enough to try and protect them.” Glancing up she was glad the sun was beginning to set; it meant she’d finally be able to see her friends. If all of them were there then she’d have nothing to worry about. Unlike some when they worried Ryuu didn’t have a look of concern but instead she wore a stern look as if she was ready to punish someone. From the occasional “Good job’s” and “you did good” Ryuu assumed the news of her taking down Riagen had spread throughout the division, whether it went on to the other divisions Ryuu wouldn’t know until she met up with the group at Shining Star.

Finally she was on leave so Ryuu headed to the 40th district of the Rukongai, where the six of them had agreed they’d met up at a bar. The Shining Star was a bar she had yet to drink at so it took her a bit longer to find the place. All the while she bit her lip wondering if someone would be missing. Holding her zapakuto closer to her body, Ryuu stood outside the entrance for a few seconds before breathing inwards and ducking inside. Surprisingly enough only one other person was there that she recognized. With his dyed red hair, Ryuu had originally thought the man was an idiot, which she was right to think. Kai sat at a large table and already he had a bottle with him. Shaking her head Ryuu slipped past the already gathering men and women and sat across from her old friend. “I see no one else has arrived yet. Did you skip your duties again?” Setting her zapakuto on table in front of her, Ryuu gave a rare smile as she teased her friend.

Setting

3 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by Mat_z6
Faster.... C'mon... Go! With blinding speed, a blonde blur could be seen zipping around the training grounds of the Second division. Reika Shinosaki made it routine to start her training by making laps around the grounds to practice her shunpo skills before anything else. For a Shinigami who utilizes Hakuda as her primary fighting technique, speed was everything. The one who could land the swifter, more lethal blow in a fight would be the victor. Faster.....Don't give up now! Just a bit more! The art of shunpo was all about getting to point A to point B with the least amount of steps possible. The less steps meant the longer one could run. Before long, a winded Reika skidded to a stop. 61 Steps was her limit for today. Sitting herself down on a nearby stool for a breather, she reached for her water flask and took a large gulp of fresh water. The feeling of the cool clear liquid running down her parched throat was heavenly. 61 steps. She still had a long way to go before she could match any other of the practiced users let alone her own captain who was the best of the best when it came to anything related to shunpo or even speed for that matter. But she was hundreds of years away from even coming close to the speed of the captain and she decided that goal would have to wait till a later date.

Reika set her flask down and hopped to her feet. It was time to warm up for her hakuda forms. By the time she was done, the young blonde would make it just in time for her morning duties. But before she was able to get into her first stretch she sensed someone at the foot of the stairs that led back up to the barracks. Beginning her stretch anyways she bent backwards to see who it was mid stretch. This, as she would find out a second later, was a bad idea. The glimpse of a captain's haori threw her off balance and before she knew it she was flat on her back looking up into the face of the captain of her division. Reika's eyes grew wide and as she scrambled to her feet in a not so gracious manner, bowed her head. "W-what's up, Captain Jiro Funaki?!" Realizing what she had just done, Reika's hand flew to her mouth. What the hell was she thinking?!!! What's up??? That was no way to greet a captain! But her habit of giving enthusiastic informal greetings to practically everyone got the better of her. "I-I mean..... Good morning to you, Captain." Still bowed, Reika's face was red with embarrassment. Being surprised like that caught her off guard and she waited a scolding. Instead, all she got was a hearty laugh and gentle pat on the head. Reika looked up surprised.

"What's wrong Reika? If you keep stuttering like that it'll become a habit. And will you please just call me Captain Jiro? Isn't my whole name along with the captain title a bit much for the mouth?" Reika grinned and put her arms around the back of her head, finishing up the stretch. She had forgotten how laid back her captain was and instantly felt relieved that it was him who scared her. Reika was instantly reminded of her first meeting with the captain and how he scolded her by telling her that being to uptight with him just made him extremely uncomfortable. "No can do, Captain Jiro Funaki! Isn't calling everyone by their whole names what's popular lately?" Reika joked playfully. "Ohh!!! Is that so? Well excuse me, Reika Shinosaki for not addressing you properly!" Jiro played along and gave a over emphasized bow to Reika. "Geez.... A captain bowing to a subordinate. I never thought such a thing could happen." Reika stared in awe. "First time for everything, huh?" Jiro straightened and took a seat on the stool Reika was seated on earlier. "So what brings you to the training grounds so early in the morning?" Reika asked as she sat herself down on the ground to stretch out her back. "Well.... I've come to personally inform you of the special assignment i'm giving you for tomorrow." Jiro quickly cut to the chase as more of his seriousness shone through. Reika nodded her head and listened with excitement. Her first special assignment. "There is going to be a prisoner transfer from the Nest of Maggots located here to the Central Underground Prision beneath the First division barracks and I want you to be one of the four guards that escorts him. The task, if everything goes smoothly, will be a piece of cake since all you have to do is walk the prisoner while making sure he doesn't try anything funny. You are to report to the Nest of Maggots at sunrise tomorrow and remember to leave your Zanpakuto. It is a necessary precaution when you enter the prison to be weaponless in case a crafty prisoner gets a hold of it since all the inmates are free to roam about the facility besides, all members who are in charge of or take part in handling prisoners must be already well trained in the art of hakudo if something happens anyway. And since you are already well versed in the art, you qualify for the job. Plus this will give you a little insight about some of the duties of the Onmitsukidƍ. I've been hearing rumors that you are hell bent on joining the Executive Militia one day."

"Yes, sir. I've been training every day for that particular reason." Reika replied strongly. "Well I can see you are already well on your way. I would be honored to have you fight alongside me one day. Now then, I should be going. Nana is probably hunting my ass down as we speak. I tell you that woman can smell me from miles away!" The captain chuckled as he got up to leave. "Remember, sunrise tomorrow. Don't let me down." Reika bowed once again. "Understood, sir! Have a good day!"

Reika flew threw her morning duties with ease. The excitement of the her assignment made everything seem so easy and the more Reika thought about it, time seemed to fly by. Sure it was a simple escort job but she was ecstatic none the less. This was her first step towards her goal to be enlisted in the Onmitsukidƍ, which was the Stealth Force of the Soul Society. An organization that patrols and conducts surveillance in enemy territory and carries out top-secret operations, such as assassinations and the execution of Shinigami who have broken the law. As she finished up sweeping her part of the barracks, which was part of her daily duties, Reika tucked her broom away in the utility closet. The place was always too clean but she could see why. The Second division barracks was overly luxurious, having renovations done by one of the past lieutenants who had come from an extremely wealthy family he had used his personal money to make the living quarters and offices overly comfortable. The facility now had automatic doors and even heated floors to boot. There was even a hot springs located in the training grounds and whenever Reika was doing late night training, she would always end with a hot springs bath. Reika was glad she applied for the Division with such crazy living quarters.

"Shinosaki!" Reika heard a voice from down the hall calling her name and she quickly bowed her head when she saw who it was. "Good day to you, Lieutenant Nanako Tanata." Unlike the captain, the ever so uptight Nanako would not tolerate any form of familiarity from a newly enlisted subordinate. "Shinosaki, I am here to confirm you were informed of your assignment from the captain? I told him I was to give it to you but he insisted on giving it to you himself." Reika nodded to confirm. "Yes. The captain informed me this morning." Nanako let out a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness. He can be so forgetful sometimes. Anyways, I'll be going now. There are a few things I need to clear up before I do anything else. Just some rumors flying around about some recent Shinigami deaths in the outer divisions of Rukongai. I'm sure you've heard of them." Reika nodded once more. She had definitely caught word of the so called rumors that were spreading like wildfire throughout the divisions of the Gotei 13. Supposedly a few Shinigami from the 13th Division who were tasked to patrol the outer slums of Rukongai were attacked by some unknown perpetrator. The captains were saying it was just a hollow attack and that the victims were highly intoxicated but many believed it to be more than that.

Reika bowed a second time as Nanako turned to leave. Looking outside one of the large glass windows, Reika realized that it was getting late judging by how low in the sky the sun was and she decided that it was about time to head over to a certain bar called the Shining Star. Besides her new assignment, Reika had been looking forward to this all day. It was a sort of reunion party with her old classmates where they would drink and tell stories about their new lives in their respective squads. She had missed everyone terribly and she couldn't wait to see them all again. Though being a bad drunk, Reika knew this would be fun but quickly told herself not to go overboard since she had a very important duty tomorrow morning. Though as Reika began to leave for the 40th District, words she had heard of the rumors began flooding her mind once more. The 13th Division.... 13th.... Then it hit her.... Joel was assigned to the 13th Division. Reika shook her head violently as to shake the thought of Joel being with that small group who perished away from her mind. There was no way. Joel wasn't the kind of guy to do that kind of thing anyways. Reika pushed the morbid thoughts of her classmate being dead to the back of her mind. What was she thinking? Of course he was fine. She was going to be seeing him tonight! Finally getting back into her cheery mood, Reika broke off running towards the 40th District partly because of excitement and partly because she wanted to practice her shunpo a bit more.

As Reika arrived, she was relieved to see two others were already here before her. The two red heads of the group, Ryuu and Naratsuki. It had been way too long since she had seen them. A huge grin spread across her face and the overly excited blonde waved her hands above her head. "HEEELLLOOOOO!!! Ryuu Shosuke! Naratsuki Kurokiri!!" Reika sang out, clearly happy to see her two friends again. The giddy girl sat herself down next to Ryuu, laying her short Zanpakuto next to her. "Seems like we're the only ones here. Did you guys get off early?"

Setting

4 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

"What a waste of time." Shizuna thought as she would find herself cleaning after the many animals of the Squad Seven Barracks. It would seem that Unseated members were stuck with these crap jobs, literally. It was either dust and mop the floors, or clean the stables, cages, and droppings. All the while Seated members where either training, something she wished to continue, guard duty or scolding the Unseated. Of course she could understand why these Seats have to be so strict on the rules. Many Unseated are always goofing off when work was to be done. Shizuna can understand the ire of these officers, after all she hates just as much as they do. Fools drinking, napping, gambling, and whatever else they do to waste time. It's almost as wasteful as cleaning up after animals.

Still despite her disgruntled attitude towards animal clean-up, there was one silver lining in it all. Although the idea of keeping animals here in the Barracks is a terrible one to her. Especially since it increases the amount of chores and divvies the amount of Shinigami to do those chores, when those numbers would be better off doing more important things. Not to mention that this problem is unnecessary and can be easily fixed. Her infuriating thoughts are cleared when she sees the Aviary. While she could care less about all the animals, she can't help but admire Captain Hachigane's collection of birds. There were many beautiful varieties and the Aviary itself, puts her makeshift coops to shame. She remembers her little coops she kept on the roof of her old home, they were measly but still the birds came to roost their. It made her happy, but this, what a wondrous thing.

Cleaning up after the birds was about the only chore she had no problem with. Although sometimes she spends too much time with the birds, when really she should be working along. Still she had good enough sense to move along. As she did she could see other Unseated members cleaning as well. Many hated to clean animal crap as they groaned and complained. Shizuna had no time to hear their whining. She didn't care for it either but you would never hear her complain."Childish" she thought. She would continue to move from one end of the Barracks to another, cleaning up cages that where not yet attended too. As she would come to a rat cage, she noticed two Shinigami standing around. They were Seated members from what she could tell. The two Shinigami were standing around doing nothing, just lazing about. She was perturbed by the nerve of these Seated members. Here the Unseated where busting their backs doing work they don't wish to be doing. Yet, these Seats are just standing around talking.

Shizuna had half a mind to tell them off, but she knew her place. She wasn't those kinds of people that just say whatever comes to their minds. She isn't one for reckless decisions. As she began to take care for the rat, she heard them talk about many things. They mentioned training for a moment. She looked towards their Zanpakuto and back to her's. She wanted to resume training so bad. She had learned the name of her Zanpakuto after she graduated. She wanted to communicate with the blade so badly. Yet, ever time she would try, no answers were given. Beyond understand it's name, nothing else is known about the sword. So far it has yet to feel it should communicate with her. The Seated members where bragging about them getting to know their Zanpakuto, one of them even believes they will soon achieve Shikai. Shizuna wishes she could achieve Shikai as well. But if her blade, Kumonosu won't answer then how could she. Or is it possible that the blade cannot hear her? What a conundrum. This can only be solved with training but that will never occur if she is stuck care taking for these animals!

The thought was maddening, but she bit her lip and drugged on. She then heard them speak about an incident that happened at the Eleventh Squad Barracks. They mentioned an Unseated rookie defeated Raigen. Another Seated member passing by perked at this and entered the conversation himself. He was in disbelief over that a rookie defeated Raigen. They confirmed these rumors by saying a red-haired woman was the one to defeat him. The Shinigami still showed disbelief, but that's what they heard through the grapevine. Shizuna could believe, their can be only one person their speaking about, Ryuu Shosuke. "What has happened this time?" "Did she let her temper get the better of her?" Shizuna could only sigh at the thought. The stories she heard from Tenshin about her, it would seem they have yet to stop. Despite how reckless she thought the idea was, she was also frustrated. It seemed Ryuu was becoming stronger, defeating squad members while she was stuck cleaning crap. That thought was truly maddening. After she cleaned the rat cage, the three Shinigami's conversation took a dark turn.

"Did you guys hear about what happened last night?"
"Hm?" "Oh wasn't there something?"
"It wasn't just something you forgetful idiot, Shinigami were killed!"
"Oh?" "Oh yeah!" "Sorry, it just slipped my mind."
"Alot of things slip your mind." "Anyway yeah we heard."
"Isn't that horrible, killed in the middle of the night out in the wild."
"Why where they out in the wilderness?"
"Not sure, some assignment I believe."
"How where they killed?"
"I think they were ripped apart by Hollows."
"Eesh, glad I wasn't on that detail."
"Didn't I hear that they were drinking or something?"
"I'm not sure about that."
"Awful still."
"Yeah."


These rumors have circulated earlier, but it was just know she had a more direct knowledge of it. Whatever killed them is still out there, and that isn't good. Shizuna was a little more than perturbed by the Seated Officers rather complacent attitude to this. They say it was terrible, but shrug it off as if it had little meaning. Sounding that the situation is hopeless and not worth a person's time. She didn't like how they were just casually talking about serious matters. Shizuna decided to move on, not wanting to be angered further by them. Her cleaning duties where coming to an end and she remembered Tenshin invited her to a gathering. At first she only looked forward to exiting the Seireitei for awhile, many of the over-privileged brats where getting on her nerves. Being around people more down to earth would be nice. Even though the group she is to meet, have their own eccentricities. Yet, more interesting to her is Ryuu, she hopes to coerce the details of her bout with Raigen. Shizuna headed for the 40th District of the Rukongai, at the bar Shining Star. "Hmph, rhymes." She thought as she came to the building, sword at her waist. She entered and right away noticed that fiery red hair. "Ryuu." She spoke under her breath, in what seemed to be disgust. She recognized the other Shinigami, but didn't pay much heed to him. Then there was the loud one, she could never settle down for long. It would seem she is here before Tenshin, pity he's more better at breaking the ice than she. Still she quickly and quietly sat down on Ki's side of the table.

Despite Reika's yelling she caught the comment Ryuu made, Shizuna then made a rebuttal. "Well at least he isn't fighting with his fellow squad, unlike some people." She callously spoke not in the defense of Ki or even to spite Ryuu. No, it just sounds like Shizuna has a grudge with Ryuu when actually she is frustrated over the fact she gets to spar while she was stuck on crap duty. Shizuna is good at many things but sugar coating words isn't one of them.

Setting

5 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by duramon
Tenshin was avidly watching his companion's fight, stealthily standing in the crowd by the big oafs supporters with a grin on his face and his canines exposed in an almost predatory happiness as he watched the fight. The 11th division were mostly meat heads, but at least they gave a decent fight, it was just their way of testing new members and even just rising in the ranks was a similar process. His hands fell lightly on his Zanpakuto as the fight continued, watching as the ogre of a mans friends made similar actions, Tenshin was not one to interfere with others fights but with a light sigh he walked up directly next to two of them and landed two swift punches to their guts. Sending a deathly glare at the small group as they seemed to continue their actions, that is until he flipped his left blade into his mouth and clenched a fist, it wasn't as if he had a huge reputation, but of the 11th division who specialized in swordsmanship Tenshin was known for his Hakuda. As it were with the groups weapons sheathed and Tenshin's already drawn, it was a cold war he'd already won and they settled down.

It was a surprise to them however when amongst the cheering and their icy glares, Tenshin took the blade from his mouth and boo'd his companion. "Booooo~! You bully~! Riagen was such a gentle brute, it's not his fault his mother was a monkey~!" He yelled out loud, this of course served to effectively enrage the man's surrounding lackeys whom after proceeding to give their glares to Ryuu turned to Tenshin, blades swinging and roaring like the meat-heads they were. Tenshin for his part kicked himself and his blades into the air and laughed, the blades effectively blocking two of the swords long enough for Tenshin to Shunpo behind the group still in the air. His leg spinning to come cracking down on the weakest lackey's skull and a hand wrapping around the throat of the next one up, smacking his surprised face into the injured man as he caught his blades. He held a cool gaze the whole time, but his grin betrayed the insanity most of 11th division possessed in fighting.

The bulk of the group backed down to let their 'second in command' step up, a similarly ape-like fighter called Kurogani. Tenshin took a step back into the sparring ring twirling his blades and dancing around the place before spinning to a halt "What do you say chubby? Care to go for two fights in a row? If I win you have to call me Kuro-senpai whenever you see me and bring me breakfast from your rich little house every day~, if you win I'll leave the 11th forever and I'll give you Ryuu-senpai~" He said with a child-like arrogance, his annoying singsong tune accompanied with his little immature twirls serving to annoy the man before him similarly as Ryuu had done to her opponent, of course if he lost he couldn't hold up his end of the bargain, Ryuu would kill him first if she even heard his bet. He stepped forward and unsheathed his blade and Tenshin made a show of looking excited and even giddy at the prospect until the mans blade swung at his mid-riff.

The fight continued for quite awhile longer than expected from the group and the two traded blows, Tenshin landing kicks and punches whilst the man swung his sword either into floating blades or Tenshin's annoyingly spinning blocks. It was by no means an easy feat for Tenshin but they didn't need to know that, eventually the grin vanished from Tenshin's face and his blows landed heavier, his kicks aiming for joints and soft spots, his blades slicing along the run of major organs rather than trivial muscles. Before he knew it he was standing over a man covered in blood in front of a horrified crowd, his blades swinging through the air as he dropped from above to meet the mans neck before another intersected his, a foot sending him flying across the sparring grounds and cracking into a wall. It was there that he finally blinked and groaned, holding his head and staring horrified at the scene before him.

He didn't know whom had blocked his blade, nor did he care, he sheathed his weapons, bowed in apology and fled to the barracks with more than some light bruising, picking up a lighter and a human cigarette to light up before dissapearing again to head to the Shining Star to meet his friends. Everything had happened so fast all of the sudden and he hadn't a clue what exactly had happened at such a pace, so instead he let his mind wander and preoccupied himself with smoking. Discarding the unhealthy habit before his friends could see it and strolling into the bar with a grin on his face, taking a seat far from Naratsuki and as close to his fellow 11th division member as he could. Perhaps to those of the group that knew him the best his smile would seem hollow, his grin confused as he sat down.

Tenshin had similarly heard the rumours, but no further information, to him it was a hollow attack or something else...something personal, and he wanted to investigate, but not until he knew everyone was here, and safe.

"What's that about fighting fellow squad members? I saw her fight, it was purely defense~ Absolutely nobody was forced to resign and I am absolutely and undeniably not getting free breakfast for the rest of the forseable future~" He said with a grin, already having ordered his alcohol and taken a swig. His fingers clicked quietly but rapidly under the table and his left foot was softly thumping against the floor as he observed the group, at least he still had them no matter what. His arm clicked slightly at the shoulder as he rolled it lazily and he groaned at the prospect of a broken bone.

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by Damioa
It was dark. Why was it always so dark? This was the main question the little boy had. How come it was him who had to live in darkness while those around him lived in a mix of light and dark. Would he able be able to see the light? Any other form of light other than the opening and closing of the door would be good. He wasn't as hungry for food as he was for being released from the darkness. Who knew how long it was. It could've been a month or a year, possibly more than that. It didn't matter after awhile, for it had been long enough to get used to it. It went on long enough that the only way he didn't ask to see the light anymore. This was his life and he accepted it. Though, one day was different. There was a loud scream. Anger filled his home and he pressed his ear to the door of light. The woman on the other side was talking all sorts of things and the man was going against her. They barked at each other over and over, until the door to light opened. What happened after that? Well.....


"Ahhh!!!" Joel woke up from his dream in a cold sweat. What made him scream like that, no even he remembered. It wasn't like the dream actually scared him. Even if it did, he'd be used to it by now, especially after having it for so long. Not every night did the dream haunt him, but most nights. Though he didn't really mind it that much. Usually he didn't jump away, but today was different for some reason. Maybe because he let his guard down. He shrugged it off as nothing in particular and brushed his covers off. Standing up, he stretched and looked over to his sword which sat idly against the wall. "Good morning," he said, not expecting an answer. As expected none came, which made him smile a bit. One day maybe, he thought.

His usual morning routine had began shortly after that. He went to clean himself up, exercised, read, and then he dressed himself. His baggy clothes being a little unorthodox, but good enough for him, considering he had weights wrapped around his legs, waist, arms, and wrists. This was his lifestyle. Speed and strength. It was hard to maintain both without constant excersise so Joel set it upon himself to make even walking an exercise. The weights didn 't feel as heavy as they did when he was first using them and he sighed at the fact that he'd have to find heavier ones. Though, it probably wouldn't matter if he did get them. It wouldn 't hurt his speed not to. However, he sort of wanted to be faster and stronger. There was no telling how strong one had to be to protect the ones they cared about, so Joel left his room with the intent of somehow becoming a little bit stronger this day. This same routine happened everyday, and the goal had never changed.

This was all done before the sun came out, for he was an early bird. He also liked spending time with the Koi fish who he was tasked with taking care of. It was a menial class which suited a new recruit to the division, but he didn't mind. It was calm and quiet and watching the sunrise with the fish was pretty fun. He would say more to them than he would even tell his friends. Good thing they couldn't talk back.

"Why do I keep having that dream again and again. It's pretty iratating don't you guys think so?"

His questions were never answered, but it was a good way think out loud. Usually before sunrise, no one was making a peep loud enough to interrupt his comfort, though this morning was a different story.

"Everybody wake up!!! Everybody wake up and come to the meeting room!!!"

Joel looked slowly behind him as the man yelled hysterically. Lights from the inside of the barracks started to illuminate the darkness from outside. Soon the stars weren't able to be seen in the sky as the field lights turned on as well. The silence was interrupted by a hysterical man and the mood of the whole scene was gone forever. As the man stood up slowly, he couldn't help but to think that this was going to be a bad day, though he wasn't ready for what came next.

"Cain, Leon, Axl," Captain Hanakonawa started, following by a few other men. "Some of you know these men and some of you don't. However, they are all our family within the thirteenth division. Also, currently, do to an unfortunate incident, they have also passed on."

The room was silent and no one knew what to say or even wanted to speak for that matter. The captain had a strong look about her, one which Joel hadn't seen until today. It seemed she was feeling it worse than those who were even crying. Looking closely, she reminded him of one of his friends in that regard. Joel then looked at Lieutenant Kokoro, who had her head down, probably not wanted to look up for emotional reasons. From what Joel could tell, she was most likely hurt because she was mostly close to the members of their division. The thirteenth division in itself was one big family, which you could tell just by spending a day inside.

"RRrrrrgh. That's bull!!!!"

Turning his head to the right of him, Joel saw a man with his fist clenched and his teeth tightened to each other. "There's no way those guys would go out and do something like that. I say we go to that area and cause some pain for the Hollows!!!"

"Quiet Matsuda," The captain said softly, with a hint of leadership in her voice. "That is not the way we operate here. Though it is a shame that we had to loose some of our brothers in an unfortunate incident, we will not be broken by this event. The best thing we can do right now is wait for higher orders and give the men a proper passing."

With the man silent, it seemed more like he hade more chance of crying than disobeying the captains orders. Joel even felt a certain way about it.

"In the meantime, no one is allowed to leave the premises on their leave until the funeral and meetings are dealt with."

The mans eyes shot opened. That meant that he wasn't allowed to see his friends that night. That wouldn't have been fair. What if they had heard the rumors and thought he was dead or something. He couldn't allow that. Though, he was also in no place to speak against the woman. She was nice to all of her subordinates, but he could tell just by looking at her that she wasn't one to challenge.

"Furthermore, even though our daily morning duties can not be halted, I have decided to cut this afternoon and tommorrows out of the schedule. With this time, reflect back on our fallen comrades and learn from them. Their streangths and their weaknesses. That is all."

For the duration of the hour, many people moved slowly about and Joel returned to the Koi fish. His mind was relaxed and his thoughts came as he wanted them too, but he still felt a weight down in his chest. What if that have been his friends? What if his friends had been in trouble and he wasn't there. He couldn't let that happen. So he made his decision. Later that night he snuck away from the barracks using his speed to his advantage. Flash stepping was one of the first things he had learned to master while in training and it had it's uses. Fast escapes and attacks. In this case he used it to leave as quickly and quietly as possible.

Walking around Rukongai, he didn't see his targeted place in sight. It was too easy for him to get lost and hard for him to ask for directions from strangers. This of course was the worse possible mixture of bad luck. Though, like he was told, if he kept finally the road he would find the pub, which he did. Once inside, he glanced around for his group and, not to his surprise, he was the last one to arrive. Walking over to the table he looked for an empty seat, not wanting to disturb anyone before sitting down. "Good evening," he said to all of them before sitting down and opening his menu.

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

Ryuu Shosuke


Even before Ki could answer her question, a loud cheery yell could be heard from across the pub. Ryuu knew exactly who it was and the very thought of it made her cringe. "HEEELLLOOOOO!!! Ryuu Shosuke! Naratsuki Kurokiri!!" The red head rubbed the bridge of her nose in annoyance, “Must she really say our full names?” glancing up at Ki to see if he was feeling the same way. Reika sat herself down next to Ryuu, who was a bit against the idea but she’ll live. "Seems like we're the only ones here. Did you guys get off early?" It wasn’t that she disliked Reika it was just that at times her cheery attitude was too much for Ryuu to handle. Out of them all Ryuu was a bit gruff and the least lady-like between Reika, Shizuna and her, although Shizuna was next Reika in being feminine.

Shifting in her seat so she could get a better look at her overly energetic friend Ryuu frowned a bit, “No, the eleventh squad didn’t have much to do.” although she was a bit curious as to why Ki was done already but she already had an idea why. Quiet as a mouse, red eyes followed Shizuna as she sat down on Ki’s side and to be honest, Ryuu envied him if just the slightest. "Well at least he isn't fighting with his fellow squad, unlike some people." Her head snapped over to look at Shizuna making her frown at the comment the other girl made. “Hey-“ before Ryuu could finish a body plopped down close to hers, incredibly close in fact making Ryuu uneasy.

"What's that about fighting fellow squad members? I saw her fight, it was purely defense~ Absolutely nobody was forced to resign and I am absolutely and undeniably not getting free breakfast for the rest of the forseable future~" The smile on Tenshin’s face was odd but Ryuu decided to discard it for the time being so she could deal with it later. Now wouldn’t be the best time to ask him questions or to put him in the spot light. “I can speak for myself Tenshin.” her tone was a bit cold but it held a bit of sincerity that only a few could get out of her. Scowling at him for good measure Ryuu turned her attention back to the table now a bit bored as she explained what happened. “It wasn’t all self-defense; he made the most impossible terms for me to conform to so I had to kick his ass. Not my fault that he was such an ugly oaf.” shrugging her shoulders, Ryuu beckoned over a waitress. Leaning back away from the group so the woman could hear her better Ryuu ordered a drink.

Ryuu glanced in Tenshin’s direction noticing his fidgety movements giving him an odd look. Then Ryuu remembered, Joel wasn’t hear yet and for a brief moment she worried. “I wonder where Joel is? He couldn’t possibly be. . .” looking over at her friends, Ryuu chose not to finish the sentence for they had all heard the rumors. The red head was aware of the kind of man Joel was and for that she thought him foolish. However it seemed Ryuu was worrying too much when a soft good evening came from behind them. An almost indiscernible smile threatened to curl the corners of her lips at hearing the voice she dreaded she’d never hear again.

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

Shortly after she made her comment, Tenshin arrived. She was glad he finally arrived, even though she didn't show it. He was useful into helping her ease some. Definitely better at easing her into a group instead of having to do it on her own. Although she wasn't finished with Ryuu and had hoped she would answer instead of Tenshin. Still she gained more information and was curious of what he meant by resign. He sort of made into a joke, so it was difficult to tell if he was making it up or being serious. The white haired woman decided to allow Ryuu more time to answer for herself. Shizuna sat in her seat and more like a lady, sat with a prim and proper posture. It really appeared that she was stuffy and snobbish, especially with that uninterested countenance she sports. As cold as ever with that solemn frown and bored look in her eye.

Shizuna took note of Ryuu's scowling at Tenshin, obviously she doesn't like being spoken for either. She respects that of Ryuu, strong and independent, even though she is also bothered by her as well. Not to say she hates her but does feel that she is a challenger. An opponent she wished she had more chances to spar with. She was always interested in her strength, especially by the way Tenshin used to go on about her. She listened as Ryuu explained herself as to what happened. Shizuna's only response was an audible, "Hmph." Shizuna has yet to order a drink, since she isn't much of a drinker. Not that she really had any problem with alcohol, it just isn't her favorite beverage. She prefers tea and water to anything. Still this was a bar and before the waitress could wander off she ordered as well. Whether she will drink it all or not is still undetermined.

Then Ryuu said something interesting, she picked up on the name Joel. Ah yes, Joel, an odd name but not really an odd fellow. Out of everyone here she didn't mind Joel at all, in fact she used to prefer him the most, until she became more friendly with Tenshin. He doesn't speak often and seems to be well-mannered, likeable enough traits in her book. Yet, she doesn't know much about him, but that's alright as well. His past is his own business not hers. He also seems to be very capable of being a Shinigami, although she really has no understanding of his strength or skills. She could be completely wrong about him, suppose the truth will come out if she ever sees him again. Shizuna's memory recalled that the Shinigami that died last night were from the 13th division. Perhaps she was wrong and did overestimate Joel's capabilities. After all she didn't know that much about him to begin with. Then almost as if on cue, his quiet voice pierced the sudden silence. It was Joel, and Shizuna supposes that her evaluation can stand still yet.

It looks like everyone was here. Six graduates fresh from the Academy, and Shizuna wonders how long any of them will last. The attacks last night reaffirmed her beliefs that Shinigami can die at any time. Morbid but true. To shake these thoughts Shizuna brought up the previous conversation. Her rather placid face now changed with a furrowed brow and an even deeper frown. "Well with that perspective, I too would have beaten that lug into submission," Shizuna spoke, "Although I wouldn't have been so soft about those conditions." "I would have seen that fool Raigen resigned." "After all the 11th Division is suppose to consist of combat specialists, and seeing a veteran loose to a rookie fresh from the Academy, deserves to be kicked out. What a pathetic excuse for a Shinigami." Shizuna spoke ever so cold, decisive, and harsh. She then eased on back and decided to look toward Joel. She wondered if he would speak about last night, that attack has piqued her interest to say the least.

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by Citadel
Ki gave a simple nod to everyone as they entered, being uncharacteristically quiet. Truth was, he really didn't have much to talk about. What was he going to tell them? That he spends half his time sleeping and the other half trying his hardest to avoid his duties? Hell, if he lied and said he was actually trying, its not like anyone would believe him anyway. So, why not silence? Neutrality was the best policy in such a situation. Ki listened to the story of Ryuu's day, giving a small smirk in response to hearing her dethroning of the giant. "You should probably be careful though. The last thing you want is Kenpachi taking notice and wanting to fight. Though, with his Lieutenant seat vacant, it sounds like he has bigger issues right now than tests of strength." Ki put his lips up to his glass, only to realize that his drink was empty. He motioned for the waitress to bring him a refill, setting his glass off to the side for now. "The Sixth is kinda boring. The Captain is really intense though. I once made eye contact with him and I felt like he could crush me without even drawing his sword." Ki chuckled a bit, looking his glass to see it was already refilled. Not much with sensory skills to say the least.

Ki took a drink, feeling none of the effects of the alcohol. Over the years the man had developed quite the tolerance for alcohol, not having gotten drunk in forever, no matter how hard he tried. Shrugging with a 'Don't have any care to give' nature to it, Ki motioned to the waitress. He held up six fingers and gave a nod, then a thumbs up. The waitress brought over six shots, sitting one down in front of each Shinigami. "Okay, I don't exactly know what this is, but I told the bartender when I got here to come up with a concoction for later, so... this should be interesting." Ki held the shot up to his nose, taking a whiff of it and quickly pulling the drink back. "Yep. That is a 12th Division level of crazy right there. Feel free to pass them down my way if you don't feel adequately prepared to take this voyage with me. Though, it would be a little rude, considering I'm paying for the drinks. Just saying. Even if you aren't drinking, you have to at least toast it though." Ki took a little sip out of the glass and his eyebrows immediately shot up. "Wow, do not let the smell deceive you. That is really good." Ki looked over and gave a thumbs up to the bartender, who simply smiled and bowed as if he was being applauded after a show. "Well, I'm not too good at these things, but here we go. Here's to graduating and becoming an official Shinigami." Ki held his drink up touched the brim with those who chose to take the shot, a universal custom when celebrating something by pouring a damn near poisonous liquid down your throat. He popped the bottom of the cup on the table and threw back the shot, a satisfied expression curling up on his face. "See? Strong, but just fruity enough to help it go down smooth. You're my hero barkeep!" The bartender looked over once again and smiled before returning to his normal duties. "I'm going to have to remember this place for the future."

Ki quickly chugged his other drink, rolling his eyes at the realization that he wasn't feeling a thing. "Well, I knew it was useless, but I gave it a go anyway. Alright, time to pay my tab before I lose what little money I have." Ki leaned back in his chair, his Zanpakuto laying on the ground behind him like he had just dropped it there without a care in the world. "So, I'm all for drinking and being merry, but does anyone know of something fun we could do?"

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by Damioa
Joel wasn't much of a drinker, especially considering what happened the night before. He hadn't even been allowed to come meet his friends let alone drink. Though he raised his cup in cheers, he had no other intention, but to set it back down. Alcohol was just one the things he didn't want to get into, since his own father happened to be an alcoholic. He looked at the cup, managing to smell the content inside and looked over towards his friends as they talked and laughed. He had once read a book on relationships, mostly to find out if his relationship with his own family could be mended at all. In the end, he didn't find the answers he was searching for. However, he did find some information on friends. In the book, it seemed there was little difference between friends and family, other than blood and relation of course. Though, from what he had read, it made him wonder. Did he truly act as a friend to these people, and were they acting as friends to him. Through the word act, it made it seem as if he could define it as such. All just an act. Maybe that's why he pledged to protect them. Sure he wasn't much of a talker and probably wasn't much fun to be around, at least in his opinion, but he could protect them with his life if he had to. After all, whether they knew so or not, they were the ones who saved him. If things had been different, he could have gone in a path which he would never be able to return from. Thinking it that way eased his mind a little and after a solid two minutes, he picked up his cup and swallowed its beverage. After which he calmly put the cup down, deciding that it would be his only drink for the night.

There wasn't much else to the night, but talking and laughter of his comrades. He looked at the clock once or twice to keep up with the time. He didn't need, but three hours of sleep to work, but he didn't want to push his luck when it came to his Captain. Sure she was nice, but everyone was before you got on there nerves. He had doubts that she would understand how long he was waiting to meet with everyone here and what it meant to him. Though, he also didn't expect her to, nor did he want her to. He didn't want anyone to know how he truly felt about him. He looked around the room swiftly. If Ryuu knew how he felt, she'd see him as weak probably, or wouldn't want to be his friend anymore. If Tenshin knew how he felt, he would probably feel uncomfortable around him. If Shizuna knew how he felt, she'd probably give him the cold shoulder. If Ki knew how he felt.... Well, he probably wouldn't care. Lastly, if Reika knew how he felt... She'd probably wouldn't mind either. In fact, maybe they all wouldn't have minded, but that wasn't the point. It was determined long ago, by the powers unknown to even him that if he revealed feelings of love or loyalty then he would be tested on them and he would have to ultimately fail all of the test. So for now, even though it seems like he's just there taking up space, even if people see him that way, he will one day prove himself. He just had to figure out how first. It was definitely a good thing he was patient and an even better thing that his friends seemed patient with him. He really appreciated it and reminded himself to thank them one day.

He watched them talk for awhile before sighing and opening his mouth for the first time in the night. "Apparently I wasn't supposed to be here tonight. After what happened to those guys the night before, Captain Hanakonawa forbid us from leaving the barracks." He looked up, worried that he interrupted something, but left it at the door. If they were listening to him then it wouldn't have been a bad thing to keep talking right? "I don't know. I really appreciate you guys being my friends. Letting me into your group. That's why I came here anyway. Though, I still can't stop thinking about those guys. I didn't know them that well, but they sort of reminded me of our group. Probably not as smart. Though they were really nice guys. Wish I could've done something for them."

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by Mat_z6
To Reika's relief, it seemed that everyone had made it and by the looks of things, her fellow classmates were doing quite will with their new lives in the Gotei 13. Taking small sips of her own personal order of sake, Reika interjected and added her usual energetic comments into the conversations of her friends. Already, the young girl was noticing the effects of the alcohol as her words became softer and more slurred each sip she took. 'Geez.... I AM really bad at this. Maybe I should tone it down for the ni-'. Reika's thought of "toning it down" was instantly interrupted as Ki announced that they were all to make a toast and Reika was passed a shot. What it was, there was no telling. The smell was absolutely foul and it made the poor girl's head spin. Though wanting to quit for the night, Reika was instantly fired up for more.

"Well, I'm not too good at these things, but here we go. Here's to graduating and becoming an official Shinigami." Ki held up his shot glass and whoever decided to take part did as well. With some effort, Reika managed to raise her glass as well and let out a soft "woo". As everyone knew, Reika was not that well with holding her alcohol. One would think that when under the influence, the usually over the top, energetic girl would be a loud, obnoxious drunk. But, surprisingly, it was quite the opposite. As the other conversed amongst themselves about life in the Gotei 13, Reika sat at her end of the table completely silent, staring blankly at the ceiling. To those who knew her, it was best to just leave her like this to "chill". These were one of the rare occasions where Reika was completely silent and it was a common practice that if you needed a break from the crazy antics of this blonde Shinigami, all you needed to do was to take her for a drink. Problem solved.

Feeling extremely dizzy, Reika lay her head on the table in front of her. Feeling something to support her head was almost heavenly. She couldn't move a muscle. Everything in her body just felt so heavy and she had no energy whatsoever. 'Crap.....What am I gonna do if I miss my assignment tomorrow? I'll be sooo screwed....' The image of her lieutenant beating her to death with the sheath of her Zanpakuto popped into her mind. Reika managed to find the energy to lift her head and if felt as though heavy boulders were hanging from her face. Though she managed to lift her head, that newfound energy was instantly sapped from her body and Reika found herself resting her head on the shoulder ofth e person next to her. To her surprise, she was greeted by a flurry of red hair and instantly knew who it was.

"S-sorry Ryuu-chan.... I'll get off in a few seconds.... Just.... a.... few...." Before she knew it, Reika had fallen into the sweet unconscious darkness that one calls sleep.

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by duramon
Tenshin kicked up his legs onto the table and refrained from conversation participation, instead opting to drink and allow the others to continue, upon receiving Ki's beverage he slid it down the table to him with one foot and took a swig of his own alcohol in cheers, giving him a curt nod before observing the group. He knew what he was going to say, but he figured he'd give everyone the chance to relax and enjoy, even if it seemed Joel worried for the group and Reika decided to unwisely pass out on Ryuu. After several drinks and a few pieces of idle chatter Tenshin finally decided to speak up, giving Reika a quick knuckle tap to the forehead before standing up.

"Something to do hm? How about instead of getting drunk, shirking our duties and worrying about ending up like those guys, we go and find out WHY they ended up how they did. No matter how drunk or lazy a shinigami is a whole group of experienced members of the Gotei 13 don't get taken out by a pack of hollows!" He said confidently, taking another long drink of his sake, his free hands fingers splaying and tensing behind his back "Now I know this is meant to be our lil' get together and some of us are pickled, but we're members of the Gotei 13 now, and if we're lookin' for a bit of adventure and to rise in the ranks, and it seems we've even already broken the rules by being here. Then we need to set ourselves apart and at the very least put our necks on the line for the safety of the Rukongai and Seireitei. It may seem foolish, brash and idiotic even, but I won't let that happen to us...I won't let another group like us end up like that either, 11th divisions motto is this, Fight! and that's what I'm going to do tonight." He ended, finishing his drink and tossing a half dozen tablets onto the table as he double-checked his Zanpakuto, walking behind Joel to tap his shoulder with care.

"Glad to see your safe mate, if anyone else is coming take a tablet and clear your head of the alcholic buzz, bit of something I learnt to carry after one too many hangovers during examinations in the academy." He said with a more Tenshin-like grin and tone, his hand still occasionally clicked almost inaudibly in his pocket but it eventually calmed. "So, now that I'm done with my dramatic speech and all that, in all seriousness whose coming, I'm lonely over here." He half-whined with a fake pout, spinning one blade over his shoulder as he sauntered towards the exit with light steps, observing the group for their reaction and fiddling with his spinning Zanpakuto, not entirely aware of the fact he was probably disturbing the rest of the patrons quiet drinking time.

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

Ryuu Shosuke


Ryuu nodded in agreement with what Shizuna said. There were few times from Ryuu’s perspective where the two women rarely saw eye to eye. It was then that what Tenshin said earlier caught up with her when Shizuna spoke of her being soft on her conditions. Frowning it was obvious something was wrong. Looking over at Tenshin, Ryuu’s frowned deepened. “Those were my conditions.” she said carefully and rather slowly, all the while giving Tenshin a sidelong glance. Leaning back in her chair, Ryuu slid one leg over the other at the knee, draping an arm behind her chair and the other holding up her drink.

It seemed the story of her day was something everyone wanted to give their say about since even Ki spoke up about it. “I’ve no intention of hiding Narasuki. Unlike you I plan to excel in rank, maybe go for that vacant spot.” the latter of her reply was said quietly. At this point Ryuu was uncertain as to whether or not she truly did want to go for lieutenant. It would require her to work a lot and considering how the current Kenpachi is, the red head had doubts as to whether she’d even get to enjoy her seat as the second strongest if she had a bunch of paper work to do.

Listening to Ki speak of his own division, Ryuu couldn’t help but chuckle herself at his words. The prospect of tasting the odd concoction created by the bar tender piqued the red heads attention. Trying to hold back a snicker, the expression dancing across Ki’s face and the words spilling past his lips made her wonder if Naratsuki was really Narasuki. In the end Ryuu took the shot glass, raising it in the air with the rest of them but not enough so that it would clink with the others. That would require her lean back forwards and Ryuu was in a rather comfortable position. Spilling the contents of the shot down her throat, the taste was indeed fruity with a strong kick to it. Releasing a satisfactory sigh Ryuu allowed for her lips to curl upwards slightly forming a small smile of content. Naratsuki continued on, asking if there was something fun to do. However at this hour there would be few fun spots in the Rukongai to go to. The idea of sparring with them popped up but then she pushed it aside as something that could be done when they weren’t tipsy.

Looking around the table not many of them seemed to be affected by the alcohol they had consumed. Then again each of them ordered a different amount and it seemed she, Naratsuki and Tenshin had drunken the most. Hearing a sigh, Ryuu turned slightly to face Joel who finally spoke since he arrived. However instead of words of happiness or drunkenness, his words were solemn and rather depressing in Ryuu’s prospective. Reaching out, Ryuu pat the back of his head as if by doing so she could get rid of his negative thoughts. “Joel you’re making yourself out to be one of those damn sob stories. Enough of this talk of appreciation. Be merry like Naratsuki and Reika.” Motioning to the blonde next to her and the red head across the table.

The swaying of blonde hair drew Ryuu’s attention away from Joel, and the red head focused on Reika. It seemed their youngest member was unable to hold her liquor. The blonde rested her head on the table but then brought it up only to let to let it drop on a shoulder, Ryuu’s shoulder. Recoiling, yet not to where Reika would have fallen down, at the sudden physical contact, Ryuu looked down at the young girl. Ryuu wasn’t entirely sure what to do in this particular situation. She wanted to shove the girl off her shoulder but knew that was beyond cruel if she acted out that impulse. Sighing, Ryuu leaned away from Reika and just as she was getting ready to move the poor girls head back to the table a hand reached over, knuckles tapping the girl’s forehead. Finally completing the act, Ryuu looked over at Tenshin who was now standing.

Knowing the look on his face, Ryuu rested her chin on her palm, listening to her fellow squad member give a speech. Rolling her eyes at his words, Ryuu tried not to laugh knowing it wouldn’t sit well with her friend if she did. With his speech ending Tenshin dropped half a dozen tablets on the table for them to take. Reaching over Ryuu took out a tablet and began to fiddle with it, pondering the idea of whether to go with this obvious foolish adventure but finally caved in at the sight of that grin Tenshin wore on his face. “Well I guess I should go with you. It wouldn’t be much fun if I got stuck watching you from behind and not beside you.” Standing up, Ryuu realized how her words came out and thought of saying something to correct the possible misunderstanding but thought better of it. Popping one in her mouth, the slight buzz at the back of her head slowly dissipated into nothing. Ryuu reached for her zanpakuto, holding it close to her body as she normally did. Walking over to where Tenshin stood, Ryuu looked at him and gave him that rare smile before looking over her shoulder at the rest of them. “Well I’ll be waiting outside, might even head to our destination if you guys don’t hurry it up.”

Her impatience was one of the reasons she went outside, the other was simply because she hoped in doing so the rest would hurry as she said. Eventually they did come out of the bar Ryuu stood by the doorway leaning against the wall but straightened at their arrival.


An Hour or Two Later


By now the sun was down leaving them to wonder in moonlit darkness. The small group of friends walked through the forested area of Rukongai; walking the same path those deceased shinigami had treaded upon. As they ventured further and further into the woods the night sounds began to quiet until they eventually ceased altogether. Whether anyone of the group noticed ad pointed this out was up for debate. Ryuu glanced around, her deep red eyes searching the darkness for any possible movement in the shadows.

After walking for another twenty minutes, Ryuu noticed the trees were thinning until they reached a clearing. Stepping into the light the hairs on the back of her neck rose. It was obvious that something about this clearing wasn’t quite right. Ryuu’s gut feeling was proved right when they heard a rustling behind them. Taking quick steps forwards to distance herself from the sound like the rest of them. Ryuu’s grip on her zanpakuto tightened, her fingers inching their way towards the hilt in case she needed to draw it quickly. The rustling sound came again along with what may have been a growl. Yet it wasn’t a kind of growl a normal animal would have made. Ryuu thought of a hollow but the feeling she got from it was different, although she had little contact with them she knew how she’d feel in the presence of one. Frowning Ryuu glanced at her friends, wondering if they were thinking the same thing.

Suddenly a multitude of bodies burst out of the darkness. Counting about 6 of them, Ryuu then spun on her heel eyes wide as a large figure slammed into Tenshin. Calling out in surprise, the fact that the large body was able to move so fast, it was obvious the creature wasn't human. A Hollow? The red head watched as Tenshin was flung back across the clearing and into the tree line. Gripping the hilt of her sword, Ryuu drew her zanpakuto and quickly got into a defensive position. The Hollow that attacked Tenshin rejoined the rest of the hollows.

From the way it stood in front of the others, it was obvious that this Hollow was the leader. Even more so when they got a good look at the Hollows face. Unlike the rest of them, this particular Hollow's mask was crumbling away. The majority of it was gone with only a corner if its face being covered by the white bone that made up their masks. "So what do we have here, a few more shinigami to feast upon." it cackled out through its cracked and broken teeth. Almost as if on cue the other Hollows began to make sounds that could have been laughter. Some edged closer to the group, each one setting its sight on a particular target that met their individual tastes. The rest of the Hollows were smaller compared to the leader but each had a unique build.

The leader motioned with its hand, and the smaller Hollows grouped together in front of their leader. The Hollow smiled at the group of friends before speaking once again. I had originally planned on setting these little fellas down into the nearby town. To get stronger but the souls of a couple shinigami should suffice." Some of the Hollows looked back at their leader, who nodded its consent and the others rushed forwards to have a taste of their meals. The fact that each one went to a single target Ryuu could easily assume they had been watching them for the past while. This thought infuriated her for she had no idea that they were being watched.

Although they were small one could never underestimate a Hollow. They were fodder compared to the leader but that didn't matter once they began to attack their opponents. Even though Tenshin had been knocked back a Hollow still went to his location. The fight was spread throughout the entire clearing while the leader merely stayed in the center watching and waiting to pick off the weakest of the group for his own meal.

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by Citadel
Naratsuki followed listlessly behind the group as they made their way into the forest. "Okay, this was not what I meant when I said fun. Don't get me wrong, I am kind of curious about what exactly happened to those shinigami. But, wandering into this place is not by definition of how one would satiate their curiosity." Ki stopped talking, realizing he was most likely being ignored. He will admit this situation did have some advantages, mainly the fact that he didn't have to keep running up his bar tab. Ki held his Zanpakuto in his left hand, keeping the blade far away from his body as they traversed the trees. Something was off about this place. There was no sound. Ki began to worry for the safety of the others, coming to the conclusion that what was ever out here that night, might not have left. "Guys, I think we should head back to the bar. I got next rou-?" Before he could finish, they found a clearing within the forest. It shot an ominous chill up Ki's spine, the young man hoping it was just the atmosphere of the place rather than anything foreboding.

Ki heard the rustling and jumped back, though he did not drop into a defensive stance. He stood straight, though his eyes peered in all directions, never staying fixed on any one place too long. The hollows emerged from the darkness, one of them sending Tenshin back into the trees. "Tenshin?!" Ki yelled, running in the direction the man had been flung. Before Ki could make it, a hollow appeared before him and another gave chase to Tenshin. Ki snarled at the hollow, gripping the hilt of his Zanpakuto and said, "Outta the way!" He began to unsheathe his sword, only to relase the hilt and allow the sword to fall back into the scabbard. Ki looked at his sword wide-eyed, a noticeable expression of fear coming across his face. This allowed the hollow an opportunity to smash its massive fist into him. Ki went flying, but was able to regain his footing. However, he felt a steady stream of blood pour down his arm. It didn't feel broken, but he wouldn't be surprised if the sheer force of the hit had left a nasty cut on his arm.

The distance now created allowed Ki to get a better handle on his opponents attributes. It was an ugly one to say the least. Dark purple skin, an avian-like hollow mask, and massive arms that, from Ki's own experience just now, operated more like wrecking balls than anything else. Its hind legs were small however, the creature moving slow as it started to come running toward Ki. Taking one last look at his Zanpakuto, Ki dropped the sword on the ground and began running in a curved route away from the hollow. It took large, sweeping strikes at Ki, missing wildly, but always coming close to the man. "Hadƍ #1. Shƍ." Ki raised his index finger in the direction of the hollow, the Kido spell firing a small amount of energy with just enough force to slow the hollow down. Ki fired the spell again, trying to create distance while he figured out a plan. Shƍ wasn't a powerful spell, but it didn't consume much energy and was giving Ki the distance he needed, for now at least. Bakudƍ #4. Hainawa." Thinking quickly, Ki fired the spell at the hollow, a crackling, yellow rope generating from Ki's hands and wrapping around the beast.

It fought back, forcing itself to the ground due to its own unrelenting struggle. Ki began moving toward the hollow, taking precise steps so he wouldn't lose concentration on the spell. Ki carefully removed one of his hands from the spell and pointed his finger at thee hollow. "Hadƍ #4. Bya-" Before Ki could finish, the hollow burst out of Hainawa. It swung at Ki's legs, causing the young man to fall to the ground with a violent thud. The hollow stood over top of him, using one of its massive arms to hold the man down. Raising the other one high in the air, it ws prepared to bring the fist down upon its prey. "Hadƍ #4, Byakurai!" Ki shouted the spell in a desperate move, the concentrated bolt of lightning going straight through the hollows "hand" and into its mask. Ki took a heavy sigh of relief, only to be met with a sudden thud as the beasts massive frame came crashing down on him. He began to feel the life leaving him as he struggled to throw the corpse off of himself. Finally succeeding, He stood up and took heavy breaths to regain his wind as he walked over to his Zanpakuto and hesitantly picked it up from the ground.

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

Shizuna remained mostly silent during the remainder of the party. Ryuu responded to her observation over the fight between her and Raigan. Shizuna only simply nodded at the response. Then Ki decided to speak up over all of us. It was surprising to hear from him like that, but then again they are drinking. He went on to talk about his rather uneventful time with the Sixth Division. It's about as uneventful as Shizuna's place in the Seventh. Then it would seem the amount of alcoholic beverages were affecting his mind. It would seem the bartender is doing a rather fine job of creating cocktails and such. Even so much so that Ki had brought them a round of something. Shizuna looked cautiously at the drink, as if expecting it was poisoned or something. She sniffed at the edge of the brim of the cup and it had the strongest smell of alcohol yet. Although it did have this pleasant fruity effect hidden with in it's odor. It seemed Ki proposed a toast to them becoming Shinigami, and while Shizuna has yet to sip much of the beverage she ordered, she decided to down this one out of respect.

As she suspected it was strong and she wasn't much too happy about that, but the fruity after taste did keep her from not enjoying it. As the night began to drag on Joel of all people spoke. It seems this reunion can't even shake away the stigma of the other night. While Shizuna didn't believe Joel should focus so much on them, after all they were foolish enough to drink on duty. Still he sounded very disturbed by it, and perhaps speaking harshly on their failure would not help matters. Ryuu swooped in to be the first to provide emotional support. Surprising? Yes. What she said however was not. It looked like Reika was falling apart over there. It seemed the alcohol has affected her the most, to the point she was falling asleep on Ryuu's shoulder. Not the place she would pick to take a nap. At least Ryuu was kind about that little incident and rested her on the table again.

Then spoke Tenshin who came up with a very random suggestion. With some dramatic flair he decided that we should investigate what happened last night. He even dumped some pills on the table to alleviate any drunkenness we may have. Shizuna wasn't particularly on board with the idea. She really didn't feel like avenging Shinigami who were so careless as to drink when Hollows were about. She felt their mistake was deserving of that outcome. A Shinigami is always on guard and is always vigilant, and obviously drinking would ruin both of those actions. The Hollows simply had an advantage and they took it. There's nothing to investigate about. Besides they are not even from our squads, except Joel's, why should we concern ourselves with avenging them? Shizuna then looked towards him and spoke, "Tenshin, I don't think-," then Ryuu interrupted her with her vote on the matter.

Shizuna couldn't say she should have expected less. Ryuu wouldn't have let her comrade go in it alone and was even out the door before you could say, Zanpakuto. "Still impatient I see." Shizuna thought. While she believed this to be a waste of effort she took the pill and headed it outside, sword at the waist. She wasn't about to let Ryuu have two fights in a day, especially if she can place her stake in one of them. No, if there is some Hollow then she could at least use the opportunity to become stronger. Even though her competitiveness is starting to show; a nagging thought about not even wanting to do this was still present. Maybe her mind was trying to tell her something.

The bar was soon behind them as she was out in the middle of the woods in the middle of the night. As they stepped through the woods Shizuna reiterated her thoughts before on this. "Well, walking through the forest is quaint, but I feel this is a waste of our efforts." "Will we even see the same Hollows those from the Thirteenth did?" "And even if we did, do any of us have any real idea as to how we should handle them?" "I also I do not see much logic in avenging Shinigami who decided to drink and leave themselves open for such a massacre." "It is terrible that it did happen, but having us respond to it, isn't exactly the smartest move in the Soul Society to make." Shizuna coldly spoke. While it was counterproductive to what they are attempting to do, but she was not one to not speak her mind. They soon entered the clearing of where the attack took place. Shizuna's frown still the same as when they left the bar. She surveyed the area, and determined it was a reasonably large clearing. Plenty of open field for a battle, not a lot of chances to be cornered or trapped. Despite the silence, the area seemed normal enough.

Then the rustling could be heard. Soon came the growling and then the worst of it all, Tenshin was attacked. Shizuna's eyes flared open as she saw her friend being forced clear into a tree on the other side. Wide-eyed, Shizuna's attention turned back and forth between the Hollow and Tenshin. She saw Ki running to him while the Hollow spoke. This Hollow was strange in the sense it's mask was not fully formed and pristine. It had this very worn look to it. The leader of the pack decided to send it's lackeys to attack each of them one by one. "Divide and conquer eh?" Shizuna thought. Obviously they would be more stronger if together, considering being fresh Shinigami. Still the Hollows didn't know that, so they are going to have to appear they are more experienced. If the Hollows understood this, then they will it see it as an advantage and take it. She noticed Ki fight one of them and demonstrated good use of Kido. "So far so good." She thought. The Hollow she had the displeasure of being chased after crawled on all fours and had a mask with a bunch of spike on it's crown. It had a long, whip like tail and dark green skin, giving it the appearance of a horned lizard.

It chased her, taking note of her distraction with Ki's fight. She kept leaping backwards as the Hollow continued to bite at her. She couldn't worry about the others quite yet. She had to deal with this nuisance first. Then she could assist the others and increase their chances of survival. She finally drew her Zanpakuto and took a neutral stance. The Hollow charged at her and suddenly Shizuna jumped and preformed a front flip over the creature. She swung at it's backside with her Zanpakuto and managed to cut the back right leg of the beast. The creature screamed in pain as it quickly jumped in a 180 and bit at the Shinigami. Shizuna narrowly dodged the huge teeth of the Hollow, noting it's speed. She must have not cut deep enough if it can't still move like that. Shizuna took a neutral stance again and prepared for the Hollow's next attack. It charged forth again and with timing, she jumped over it again but this time she was interrupted. As a fierce swat from the Hollow's tail sent her flying off to the side. She gasped as the attack connected as her body bounced and rolled on to the ground. Aside from some scuffs and bruises she would be fine. As she slowly began to rise, the Hollow quickly rushed her and nearly took her foot off as she barreled rolled away from it's bite. Fluid in movement she quickly took her Zanpakuto and thrust it deep into the Hollow's back left leg. From there she turned the sword onto it's side, the sharpened edge pointing away from Shizuna's body, and pushed forward creating a deep gash into the Hollow's leg as the sword exited it's flesh. The wound caused the Hollow to bleed profusely as blood rushed onto the ground. Shizuna rose and turned to her foe, but to her surprise the Hollow executed a devastating blow of it's own.

The Hollow collapsed on it's left side, seeing visible damage done to it made Shizuna believe she had the advantage. Pushing through it's pain the Hollow once again lept at her. Their distance was far to close to avoid it as she brought her Zanpakuto up to her chest and laid diagonally in an attempt to block the attack. Instead of going for a bite, the Hollow lowered it's head as it made use of it's spikes. The sword managed to deflect some but not all, as the spikes impaled her body in different places. It was fortunate they were not long, otherwise the damage could have been more severe if they had punctured valuable organs. This time she was bleeding as the force of the headbutt sent Shizuna flying. She landed hard on the ground as her body slid across the grass, up heaving a few weeds. Her body came to a stop as blood ran from her arms, legs and torso. She felt pain as she tried to rise to her feet, her body felt heavy from the amount of injuries. So much so that she planted her Zanpakuto into the ground and rested upon it's hilt. Luckily her cut into it's leg made it hard for her enemy to move, but nevertheless it did. It was etching closer to her and she could guess that the Hollow was going to lunge at her when in range. Shizuna had to come up with a plan, but her breathing grew heavy as she panted with fatigue as the blood loss worsened her condition. Is she was to be of any use, she has to kill this one here and now. As it lunged for her again, Shizuna quickly pulled a trick out of Ki's book. "Hadƍ #1. Shƍ!" She shouted as energy fired from her right finger causing the Hollow to collide with the force of the spell, stopping it in it's tracks. Mustering what strength she had, she lept over the Hollow but this time she managed to slice of the beast's tail, as it howled in pain. She tucked and rolled stopping herself by stabbing her sword into the ground. She began to shutter as the pain crawled about her body. At least she took away another of it's weapons. She was slowly dissecting her enemy piece by piece, but it was becoming clear that she couldn't keep this up. The death stroke must be made and soon.

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by Damioa
Joel raised his head a little as Ryuu spoke, as to knowledge her words. Giving the woman a smile, just because it did make him feel better, especially after looking at Reika, he said "You're right," and left it at that. His attention was automatically taken once Tenshin began talking about going to investigating the previous nights indecent. From the sound of it, Joel didn't really feel as if it was a good idea in the slightest. However, he wasn't about to let any of his friends face a dangerous situation without him. After Ryuu had left the building he followed suit, along with the rest of his friends. He didn't really have need for the tablets, seeing as he hadn't drank that much, but he kept them in his pocket should the need arise.

In the dark of the night they all traveled through that forest land in Rokongai, following the path towards the area of the dead. It had become quiet, too quiet for even Joel's taste and the mans eyes were constantly eying his surroundings. Every once and a while he would look toward his friends to make sure they were alright. His left hand was tightly gripped on his zanpakuto, who seemed to want nothing more than to eat. He had never seen the image of it before, but was sure it was some type of monster by its voice and by the way it asked to be fed. The more they walked, the more it called. Joel, at the time, was ignoring its calls, like he always had, thinking to himself that he wouldn't want to have its first meal be tonight. Not in front of people he cared about. Though to his dismay, the sword in his hand told him that tonight would be the night it had a meal and just as if on cue, a rustling sound was heard from behind them. Joel made sure to stay close to the group for the time being, guessing already what the maker of the sound was. Then a strange animalistic grumble came along with more rustling. Though what happen next had happened to fast.

Suddenly a large mass had rammed into Tenshin and five other bodies had followed like they were the ones hunting and not Joels group. Joel had seen the formation like that before, back when he was a child. There was no doubt about it. His group had fallen into some type of trap. Though, who could balme these things? It was always wise to stay near a hunting ground if you get a good catch the night before. Just to make sure there aren't anymore prey left on the path. Unluckily, Joel's group were the new prey. Though as soon as he saw Tenshin take the first shot, it had been the hollows that were going to be the prey. Though the hollow leader started talking Joel didn't receive any of the words going through. He could only hear his sword, begging to be fed. It sounded as if it was someone who hadn't ate in years and then was going to resort to eating one of their own. Joel knew this was a horrible comparison, but that's the most desperate thing he could compare it to.

There were six of them. That meant the fight was even, though it seemed the leader was counting himself out and then the five other hollow began to run for their own targets. It was then that time froze for Joel and he went to watching everything as if he was a third person. He had a plethora of choices at the moment. He could of helped Tenshin, but it seemed Ki had gone for that route only to be stopped by a hollow. He could help him, but then he wouldn't be able to help Tenshin. Thinking about it more clearly, Tenshin wouldn't want help.

"Hungry."


Joel gritted his teeth and looked around more closely. There were six of them and six hollows, but only five were attacking. Who would he help? If he helped someone then that means five people would be without help. He needed to think about it clearly. Who needed more help? He looked at Ryuu, then tore his eyes away. Same thing as with Tenshin. Ki? No he seemed to be doing okay, and how would he had felt if he went to help someone and then received help. That left two then.

"I want the one you're looking at. Feed me!!!"

True, he was looking at the leader, but his sword was not his boss. It was barely his partner. Heck, by the way it acted, it was his pet, his tool. Though it didn't matter to Joel, he appreciated being chosen by it. Yeah, that's exactly how it felt. Though he still rarely paid it mind. There was no way he was going after the big one before he determined if one of his friends was in danger or not. Who could it be though? Shizuna? Sure she was getting hers as well as giving, but he had to think about someone else.

"Let. Me. Eat."


"Reika!!!" he called out, as if on impulse as he turned away from the lead hollow to look over towards her. A hollow seemed to be going her way, maybe because of her drunken nature. He didn't know if hollows could sense if people were intoxicated or not, but it didn't matter. At a moments notice, Joel flashed towards her picking her up just as soon as the hollow was about to tackle and flashed again, appearing not to far away from it. "Reika? You okay?" he asked while letting her down. The hollow didn't seem that happy that he moved his target, though Joel didn't mind him at all. He kept his eyes on the girl for a few seconds to see if she was still drunk or not before saying, "If you're still feeling off, you have to focus and fight now." He really couldn't tell whether she was sobered up already or not, having not spent that much time looking at her. His eyes turned towards the hollow and his hand wrapped around the grip of his sword, index finger extended ready to pull the trigger. If he were outnumbered, it would have been one thing, but the fact that their was one hollow in front of him, he'd probably just have to flash three times if that. From different angles he planned on flashing and bursting the sword out so that it could cut the beat in pieces. Though he wondered if that would be a good idea. Sure against trees and logs it worked, but he wasn't sure of what would happen if it was against a hollow. Thinking about it, he had to attack the skull of the hollow in order to kill it. That would be hard just to cut through. So, he did the next best thing.

Flashing, he pulled the trigger of his blades sheath, rocketing the blade with a sound of air holding tightly as not to loose the sword and flexing his arm muscles as not to snap his elbow. It was something he was used to, having practicing the simple drawing maneuver ever since he received the Zanpakuto. His blade seemed to hit its target, the hollows leg, but it didn't seem to cut through all the way. Not only that, but almost instantly the small cut healed. The beast snarled and turned towards Joel, ready to ram him and even fixed its body placement so it was closer to the ground and a harder target to hit. Joel glared at the vile thing and sheathed his sword ready to prepare another draw attack.

"Let's...Eat."

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by Mat_z6
"Damn.... This really sucks." Reika managed to mumble under her breath as she stumbled along amongst her group of classmates who were headed towards a dark forests of Rukongai. Already the sun was dipping below the horizon and the darkness of night was coming on very quickly. As the group of young Shinigami ventured even deeper into the forest, the tall trees cast their shadow along the narrow path they had taken as if to snag them into the deep brush. The deeper they went, the darker it got and soon it was getting hard to see. As if Reika wasn't already struggling to keep her vision. Though she was managing to keep up with the rest of the group, the tipsy girl found herself straggling behind a few feet and told herself not to get separated.

The little group suddenly found themselves in a large clearing in the trees and Reika breathed a sigh of relief. Perhaps she would ask them if they could take a little break, just in case her legs decided to give out. But before she could ask anything, her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a low, harsh growling noise. Everything that happened next was a blur. Suddenly, Tenshin was thrown back by a large black blur that had swooped out of the darkness before any of them had time to react in any way. Reika now felt the spiritual pressure of six five others deep in the darkness and she could tell by the murkiness of their energies that they were, without at doubt, hollows.

'Shit.... Can I fight like this?' Reika impulsively reached for her Zanpakuto. Six of them and six hollows. Surely the others would be better off than her at this time. She had to worry about herself and think about how to get out of this alive. The other six creatures had shown themselves and through her blurry vision, Reika could just barely make out the grotesque masks that covered each of their faces. Looking to her left and right, it seemed that the others jumped straight into battle. This was not going to be good. Even though these were considered "small fry" to veteran Shinigami, for a ragtag group that was fresh from the academy, this would be more than a challenging fight. Sure each of them had gone on small raid parties to exterminate hollows but at that time, seated officers and instructors were there to back them up. At this very moment, they were on their own.

Without warning, one of the hollows had broken off from the group of six and charged at Reika who was still stuck in her own head while trying to gain her composure. Only noticing it at the last second, she made an attempt to dodge out of the way, but by that time the hollow was already right in her face. It was so close that she could finally see its ugly masked face clearly. Random black lines seemed to be racing randomly across the white face of the mask. Two small white bulges protruded from the hollow's forehead and two large fangs were attached to the top part of the mouth of the mask that extended all the way below the chin. She had no time to react. 'Geez.... Is this going to be over already?'

"REIKA!!!" In an instant, Reika's vision was blocked by a black figure. The sensation of her being lifted off the ground took her by surprise and before she could blink, she was flashed quite a ways away from the attacking hollow who looked extremely confused that it's prey had vanished. Reika blinked and looked up into the face of her rescuer. It was Joel. "Trying to be my knight in shining armor are we? At least take me out on a date before you start risking your life for me." Reika teased softly. Though it was just a joke, her heart was pounding and sweat trickled down her open palms. She had almost taken a lethal blow which would have taken her life. That was nothing to joke about. "Reika? You okay?" Joel seemed to ignore her comment. "If you're still feeling off, you have to focus and fight now."

"I'm okay now thanks to you. Just caught me off guard." Joel set her down and it seemed the sudden adrenaline rush had cleared her mind just enough so that she could stand with certainty again. "I owe you one. I'll buy you a drink sometime. But instead of worrying about me, I think someone else wants your attention." Reika eyed the other hollow that appeared to have Joel in it's sights. "Go get em. I got this."

The young blonde turned back towards her opponent. "It's quite rude to come on to a lady without getting her attention first. You've got a lot to learn." The hollow didn't seem amused as it let out a piercing howl out of frustration that it's prey would be putting up a fight. The noise rocked Reika head. It seemed that her headache hadn't subsided though she could at least stand on her own now. "OOoowww!! SHUT YER TRAP!!" Reika yelled back at the hollow in frustration. "Geez.... Pipe down... People are trying to sleep." The beast ignored her requests entirely and growled at her in defiance. Now that Reika could finally see, her instincts kicked in an she began observing her opponent. She wasn't the strongest fighter out there so she had to rely on killing her target swiftly without drawing the fight out for too long. From what she could see, the hollow was pretty lean. Lanky arms and legs, her opponents seemed to be very quick. At the ends of it's long arms, there were single long blade like appendages that had taken the place of it's hands. A circle of small sharp spikes encircled the empty hole at the center of it's chest and as Reika observed further, it had no feet and instead it's long legs ended with round stubs at the ends.

Reika unsheathed her short Zanpakuto and took her fighting stance. She had to end this quickly. There was no telling what this creature could do and she was not eager to find out. It was time to get this over with. Mustering all the strength she had, Reika charged at the hollow. She would keep it simple so there was no room for screw ups. The hollow howled once again and answered Reika charge by bolting forward as well. Reika grinned. It took the bait. Right before the two were about to clash, Reika performed Shunpo at the very last second and popped right behind the hollow. Making a swift 360 turn, she brought her blade up and launched herself at the back of the hollow's head. "YER MINE!"

The blow never came. Reika found herself suspended in mid air, her blade, inches away from the head of the turned hollow. "Wha....." Why did she stop? The hollow was still turned. Reika felt something warm coming up her throat and suddenly found that she couldn't breathe. She opened her mouth and attempted to get rid of whatever was restricting her breathing. A familiar red liquid seeped from her mouth. 'Blood? But when did-' Reika managed to look down. A dozen of long spikes had impaled her stomach and pierced through her body. Confused, she realized that there was also a circle of spikes on this side of the hollow's chest hole. It seemed to have the ability to extend them at will and as Reika was just about to land her blow, it got her. The hollow's head began to turn around it's body in a sick manner and it's legs and arms followed so that it's back was now it's front. The dark evil eyes of the thing seemed to smirk tauntingly at Reika and the hollow raised it's bladed arms to finish the job. Still suspended in the air, the helpless girl's vision began to fade to black and she coughed up more blood. The pain finally caught up to her brain but it was too unbearable to even cry out. She couldn't move. Was this it? Move! Move damn it! MOVE! It was no use. Her vision faded the more she struggled. This couldn't be happening......

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Shizuna Kurotsuki Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka Character Portrait: Naratsuki Kuroikiri Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

Shizuna turned towards the monster as it howled. She guarded herself, prepared for the next assault that is sure to follow. The Hollow whipped its body around to face her. Blood spurted from it's bum leg as it howled again, apparently she isn't the only one who wants this fight to end. The Hollow charged in for the bite. Pushing herself forward she quickly raised her blade in an uppercut like matter as it connected with the Hollow's face. The sword caused some pieces of the Hollow's mask to be chipped off. Yet the battle wasn't finished as the Hollow continued it's assault. It made many attempts to bite at the Shinigami, but every attempt was met by her blade. With her Zanpakuto she hacked and slashed at the monster as some scratches and cracks formed about it's skull like face. It then howled in frustration as it's prey continued to be elusive.

Shizuna prepared to strike at it again as it began to move, but to her surprise it was slowly moving back not forward. She had an inkling on what the Hollow was planning. She was watching very closely her opponent as she steadied and tightened her grip. She realized her strikes were becoming weaker. That last bout has proven her strength isn't up to snuff, but there was away to get that power. When the Hollow charged her first strike was the most damaging than the following ones. The Hollow still had it's strength and that strength will help her to land a killing blow. The Hollow finished moving away from her as it prepared for its final attack. Here it comes this is her moment to end the Hollow. Its momentum would be the key to her victory as she watched the Hollow's movements.

The Hollow began to bend and buckle its leg as it watched Shizuna. It narrowed it's eyes as it launched itself forward with great speed. Her moment has finally come as she held her blade before. The Hallow lowered its head going for the headbutt one last time. Shizuna's timing couldn't have been more perfect as she went for the thrust. The tip of her sword connected with the Hollow's head as the blade was shoved deep into the monster's head. Large cracks formed around the center of where her Zanpakuto entered. Shizuna jumped back as soon as her blade connected, so as to avoid its attack. The Hollow collapsed in mid air as it's body fell right before her. She looked upon her downed foe as the blood dripped from here body. She forced herself to move forward to retrieve her blade. She grabbed hold of its hilt, it was stuck in there good. She quickly forced the blade up as far as she could and then placed her weight upon it. She then finished cutting across the Hollow's mask as it's face split in two. She withdrew her Zanpakuto as blood dripped off her blade. The Hollow the began to fade away, signifying its death and her victory.

She was tired and couldn't figure out what to do next. She noticed that everyone was fighting their own battles. Some were doing worse than others, but despite their difficulties she couldn't see herself of being any use. It seemed Ki killed his Hollow and Joel was facing his but Reika. Reika looked the worse out of all of them. She needed help and she need help now. She went to moved but her blood loss made her weak. She knelt down and could see that her assistance would be unlikely. It looked like it was happening all over again, again! Is she doomed to lose another friend to something foolish like this?! Damn it, damn it all! She thought. She punched the ground, cursing herself for being so weak. She could only hope that one of her other friends could save her in time.

Setting

2 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke

Earnings

0.00 INK

Ryuu


The very notion of being referred to as something to be eaten was revolting to say the least. Her lip curled into a snarl, her bloody eyes glaring at the Hollow that was their leader. Allowing the smaller hollows to feast upon her friends, Ryuu boiled with fury. However her thoughts were still focused on Tenshin. She wasn't even sure if her old friend was still alive let alone capable of fending for himself. Her brow crinkled in worry briefly before she noticed that there was something at her edge of her peripheral vision.

Quickly turning the moment she saw movement, Ryuu was lucky to have even block the attack on her person by the hollow. Taking a quick look at it the creature's mask was completely sealed, there were no openings that would allow for an easy wound. It's body was thin and long, the extremities were round at the end as if someone had cut off its hands at the joint. Ryuu could tell it was built for speed but she had no idea how it was even capable of sight. Then a cracked appeared in the mask, it widened enough to reveal thick teeth and a long purplish tongue swing around tasting the air. At the same time it let out a high pitched screech that forced Ryuu to bring her hands up towards her ears. And that was exactly what it wanted.

Rushing forwards in a grotesque manner, it came at her from the corner of her vision but this time she was too slow to block it. Its arm swung outwards as if to hook her into an embrace and Ryuu wasn't far from the truth. Grabbing at her waist, the hollow pulled her forwards in one sweeping moment. A crack appeared in its mouth to reveal those same teeth but this time its jaw opened wide like a snake would. Bring her sword arm down she slammed the hilt of her sword into its face. The hilt smashed into one of it's teeth breaking it off.

Having one of its own teeth broken, the hollow howled in pain releasing that same screech from before. At the same time its arm tightened its hold on her waist and flung her away from it. The moment it let go Ryuu reversed her grip on her sword so that the blade cut into the ground, and eventually slowing to a halt. Ryuu saw something glitter at the edge of her vision and saw that is was Tenshin's sword. But it was the sudden blast of light that had made her aware of the sword. Looking around she saw Ki using hado as a means of attack.

From the look of things Narasuki had managed to win over his opponent but the same could not be said for Shizuna was having trouble of her own. It seemed her distraction was obvious to the hollow for it leapt at her again but this time without making use of its screech. The hollow rammed its head into her side causing Ryuu to be pushed back and rolled a few times before skidding to a halt. Despite having been thrown at such a forceful velocity the red head managed to keep a good but weak grip on her sword. Unlike the others she wasn’t the best in kido as she saw it as a cowards trick to win over an enemy attacker. Getting back to her feet quickly, she noticed blood splatterings on the ground and for a brief moment panicked believing it to be her own blood that she saw on the ground. Running a hand over her body a sigh of relief was released after finding no wound worth worrying over. Aside from a bruised side, a possible fractured rib, and quite a few scratches Ryuu was otherwise fine.

She did wonder as to whose blood it was and looked around quickly. The blood went into the tree line and she realized that it must have been Tenshin’s blood from when he had been tackled. I mustn’t think of him now. shaking her head to clear herself of such fruitless thoughts, Ryuu turned her attention back to the hollow. Out of everyone, Ryuu had yet to lay a single blow that would mortally wound the damned creature. So taking on a more offensive stance, Ryuu brought her blade up so that it pointed downwards at an almost horizontal angle. Taking a breath in, she figure now would be a good time to test her speed so making quick movement of her feet Ryuu managed to cover the distance between her and the hollow quickly. Of course she still wasn’t as fast as Joel, Ryuu knew that it would be enough for the time being. Bring her sword upwards to swing it around her almost like a baseball bat and cut at one of the legs that went for her waist.

Slicing the tip clean off, the hollow screeched and Ryuu ducked underneath a flailing limb. That proved to be a mistake as suddenly something sharp pierced her shoulder. A splash of intense heat erupted in her shoulder causing her to stumble to the ground. Bringing her free arm upwards Ryuu punched the underbelly of the creature causing it to tip backwards from the force of her blow. Rolling out of the way of its limbs as it came crashing down Ryuu was once again hit by something sharp. Getting to her feet again, Ryuu glanced at her shoulder wound quickly and saw that it was bleeding quite a bit. Damn if only one of us was a healer. Biting her lip, Ryuu realized that her right arm was useless to her. It was also her sword arm but she would manage. It wouldn’t be a complete lie to say that Ryuu was ambidextrous but it was easier to wield a sword in her right hand. Switching to her less dominant hand, Ryuu knew that going for the kill without a plan would be a complete waste.

Then an idea came to mind. A smirk planted itself on her lips and she lowered her hips, bent her knees and raised her sword above her head as if she were about to lay the finishing blow. “You have to do better than that you ugly piece of shit!” turning towards her, the hollow rushed towards her. It got within ten feet of her when it let out that screech. Ryuu knew that it was meant to paralyze the opponent and to catch them off guard as they tried to ward off that splintering sound. Cringing Ryuu refused to cover her ears allowing them to take the full blast. The hollow swung its good arm outwards hooking around Ryuu’s waist like it did before and pulled her in.

Opening its mouth wide, it tilted its head back as it was about to drop Ryuu straight into its mouth. Gritting her teeth Ryuu raised her right arm as pain exploded at her shoulder, this way she’d have use of her full power behind this blow. Twisting in the air as it let go, Ryuu managed to push against its arm and cut downwards with all her strength. The downwards strike cut clean through its jaws almost splitting its mouth into a four way part; however Ryuu was not quite done. Landing on the balls of her feet, Ryuu ducked low to the ground shifting her blade so that it swung horizontally with the ground. As the hollow cried in pain, Ryuu reversed her grip just as it reared backwards and thrust her upwards and straight into its head. The hollows cries were cut off and pulling her blade back out its body slumped to the ground.

Breathing heavily, Ryuu stood to her full height and saw that Joel was helping Reika while Shizuna was dealing with her hollow. She wasn’t sure what Naratsuki was doing at the time but she was beginning to feel a bit light headed. “Shit too much blood.” stumbling Ryuu temporarily used her sword as a cane and walked over to Tenshin’s sword. Taking it into her hands Ryuu paused long enough for a wave of nausea to pass. The hilt of its sword was cold and it felt unnatural to be holding a zanpakuto not her own. Sheathing her own sword Ryuu held it in the crook of her injured arm while keeping the other in her left hand a bit away from her body.

Seeing as the blood spattering’s were the only indication to where Tenshin was, she followed its trail. As she came closer to who knows what she heard the sounds of a scuffle and as she got closer Tenshin’s voice could be heard. Brightening up a bit at hearing his voice, she knew that if he was speaking then it meant he was still alive. However when she came across another sword lodged into a tree Ryuu began to wonder just how it was her old friend was still fighting without the use of his zapakuto’s. Grimacing Ryuu shifted the zanpakuto into her right hand but was only able to hold it in a loose grip to prevent tensing her arm too much. With her left arm Ryuu pulled out the remaining sword and a chill raced down her spine. Shaking it off as an effect from her blood loss, Ryuu continued on further knowing he’d probably need his swords if he hoped to kill that big hollow.

In the state she was in, Ryuu had to admit she’d be of no use to him. At the most, all she’d be able to do is distract the hollow enough for Tenshin to take it out. Then again thinking back to the amount of blood she saw and the fact that he had gone through a few trees meant he too was injured. Thinking of this made her quicken her pace and she finally came across Tenshin and the leader of the hollows. What she saw amazed her for it was something she had never seen. Ryuu had watched Tenshin fight before and she had trained with him when they were in the Academy and more so now that they were in the same division but this was something entirely new to her. The way he fought now wasn’t something a person in their right mind would do. “Tenshin!?” without thinking she threw both of his swords towards him momentarily forgetting about her injured shoulder until new pain coursed through her arm.

Stumbling backwards Ryuu leaned against a tree with her good shoulder and arm clutched her right arm close to her body. Now that she had a chance at looking at her wound better she had been mistake to think that the blood was only coming from her backside. From the looks of it whatever had pierced her went straight through her shoulder. With all the movement she had been doing blood was now trailing down her arm making her grip on her sword slick. Some of it had begun to drip from her hand and she realized that some of it would have gotten onto Tenshin’s sword. “Shit that’ll make it a bit slippery to hold onto.”

Setting

1 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Joel Hiataka

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by Damioa
It wasn't normal. The way he was now looking at the hollow. To compare, it was almost as if he was looking at a piece of meat. Though, to make matters of worse, it seemed this piece of meat wasn't for him, but for his pet. All he had to do was kill it and then throw it at his dog and his dog would devour it. That's how his eyes looked, but no matter how one person looked at it was still him versus a hollow. He didn't put much thought into his next move. Actually, he just darted towards his opponent at a blind flash. It had worked before and he wasn't the type for flashy moves. Though, just like the last time, the monster in front of him healed the damage that was done to it.

"Feed...me...."

He sucked on his teeth after hearing the repeated words that began to resound in his head over and over again. There was no way he could deliver food when the food wouldn't die. The hollow seemed to also be completely fine and not worried about the mans moves. "Hehehe," it laughed. "You are fast. Though, I have a way to deal with flies like you."

With a few disturbing sounds of cracks and cringes, the type of sounds that would send chills down anyone's spine, the hollows form began to change drastically. It's skin was becoming hard and spiked and began poking out in a porky pine like way. It wasn't long until the mutation stopped and all that could be seen was a well rounded spiked ball.

The words ringing in Joels head were enough to tell him to hold his ground. It seemed there would be only one way out of this at the moment and that would be completely destroying the hollow. Though, now it seemed that since the beings body had reformed, it wasn't going to be a simple task to even get near the thing.

Like a bull with its eyes on red, the hollow moved back a few paces as if it was ready to charge the next moment. How it would move with its spiked body was easy for him to guess, though how he would move to counter it was another thing. However, like clockwork the two were moving at a fast pace towards each other, Joel running at a rolling death trap. There was not time to think about anything else. He pulled the trigger on his sheath, rocketing his blade out of its hold and sprung his arm forth in an elegant fashion. For everyone besides from him the motion was fast. One second he was on one side of the beast and the second after he was on the other side. Though, since it was so fast a few moments after, the cuts began to open on his clothes and his skin. Though he only trembled at the pain for a moment before turning back towards his enemy. The ball wasn't a human and thus didn't act as such. Just as expected it turned around ready for another attack, and such Joel kept his wits about him and continued to rush. Revolutions of flashing was going on and the sound of the spikes tearing up the ground didn't seem to cease. Along with them, more and more blood, none from a vital point, but enough to get his skin to start pulsating, was being splashed on the ground.

Joel had a plan. It was something he had been practicing since he first dedicated himself to speed. The technique was known as whirlwind and was a natural technique for most. The only reason a name was given to it was because Joel had decided to name it. While most were able to pick up the speed to succeed in it, he could only slowly elevate himself to the speed. Not only that, it was up to him to calculate the right amount of speed he needed to defeat the creature.

To tell the honest truth, if it wasn't for the continuous echo in his head, "Feed ME. . . Feed Me. . . FEED MEE!!!" and the fact that it was getting louder by the second, he'd probably pass out from the exhaustion and the blood loss. If anything it was a good distraction from such things. Though at the same time, it was slowly getting on the edge of his nerves and when he was pushed to the final nerve, that is when he went for it.

Freeze frame. As his feet slid on the blood soaked ground, his blood gushed out of his face and arms on contact with the spikes. His arm swung with his waist, slashing into the hollows flesh and with a few light steps of his feet and a bend of his back, he began motion to ignite the strike. Like a hurricane the wind around them took form in the shape of red stained leaves only to give the naked eye an impression of what was really happening. The beast had stopped still for the one real time second this was going one, while in his own zone, Joel was digging deep at different parts of the hollow, searching for its hard helm so he could feed his weapons desire to kill the being. He danced in a twirl but slashed in a spiral to complete the form of movement and once all was said and done the hollow was nothing but a slim grotesque version of what it used to be, it's mask finally revealed in the muck of what it was currently formed as.

"There you are. Time to eat."

"Indeed."

Joel threw away his swords sheath and with one hand raised his blade above his head and brought it down in a quick motion to hack away the mask. This caused some sort of disturbance in the hollow, as expected, and made its mush of a body spray out of control. Joel in the center of it grabbed onto the mask and proceeded to stabbing his blade into different parts of its flesh which made the beast wail out in possible pain or anger. Also taking hits at the mask, once all was said in done he was just taking stabs at the hollow's dead carcase and had no intention of stopping until brought out of his daze of ruthless battle.

Setting

2 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Ryuu Shosuke Character Portrait: Tenshin Shonsuke

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by duramon
Tenshin's spine cracked hard into a thick tree, the last of many that he'd spiraled through and smashed against on his way to this spot. His left arm hung uselessly by his side as he crawled out of his little hollow and cringed, spitting blood the left of him as a white mask flitted in the darkness, barely giving him enough time to bring up his remaining blade to block it's outstretched claw. A clang resounded as his blade met some kind of hardened flesh, barely leaving a nick as he looked up to see the leader himself standing before him and at this Tenshin grinned and leveled a slowly maddening gaze at the hollow. His hand shook against the monsters strength but he held fast to his defense."I was expecting a small fry, but I guess we can dance ugly." He taunted, his Zanpakuto interrupting his thoughts "Careful idiot, hit him fast and hard so we can go home and nap already!" Came the feminine voice, at this he seemed to chuckle to himself before flicking his blade back and leaping away from the hollow. "The missus says we've gotta finish this quick, so I guess it's time to get messy." He sung, spinning his blade into a reverse grip and cracking the hilt into his shattered arm to force the shoulder bone back into place, his arm cracking along with his roars of pain as he tightened the broken appendage into a fist and dashed forward.

The hollow traded blows with him in rapid succession, claws sliding over steel and a bloodied Tenshin slamming his fist and blood-soaked leg into the monsters torso and arms as a tail found its mark in his hip, not once was he to yet go for the mask in the half-dozen skirmishes that ensued. Leaping into the tree's to regroup Tenshin found himself suddenly face to face with an increasingly familiar white mask, barely able to bring his blade up in time to deflect the ensuing two-handed bash from the leader and sent crashing through his perch to land precariously upright on the ground and diving immediately out of the way with the cracking of bones as his opponent slammed down right behind him. Sending debris flying into his eyes as he retreated across what had become a battle worn clearing pockmarked with blade scarred trees and destroyed earth, his blade having been flung off deep into the forest Tenshin's grin finally disappeared to be replaced with a growing roar.

Slamming his feet into the ground despite his injuries and bringing up his fists with open palms, his fingers half bent and suddenly tense. "You're weak Soul Reaper, what a pathetic whelp of a meal you are, you won't even make for a snack for m-" Tenshin decided to interrupt the monster with a sudden dash and a harsh kick to the jaw, cracking the mask with his now bare foot before spinning in mid air and bringing his palm down in a heavy strike, barely caught by the leader who threw him across the clearing into another tree. Launching himself unabated Tenshin found himself fist to fist with the creature, unleashing a flurry of open-palmed blows to be met with the monsters own claws. Blood sprayed up from gashes, breaks, cuts and impalement's from the pair as they rapidly exchanged blows, Tenshin's arms turning into a gory mess as he continued to punch and strike in counter and attack despite the hardened skin of his opponent. Finally after the hollow screeched in rage and took a step back to unleash it's killing blow, Tenshin snapped and caught the blow with both his hands and all his strength, cracking his feet into the ground and burying them part way for stability, he could barely hold the collosal fist back for long but surprisingly he let go and barked at the hollow.

The voice of his Zanpakuto rang out in his head as he roared in tow "Blood for blood, bone for bone!" as he twisted the fist to the side and rushed forward, wrapping his bloodied arms around the monsters elbow and planting his feet into the ground once more as he wrenched, spinning at a blinding pace around it's joint until the skin turned taut and the bone snapped, not satisfied with this he gave one last mighty heave as the skin tore apart and flesh was shredded and snapped the arm from it's place at the elbow, feeling his own ribs fracture at cracking across the hardened skin. Leaving the leader shrieking and swinging it's heavy tail and claws at Tenshin as he rushed in with his scarf thrown to the wind, he heard nothing but the whirring of a blade as a blood-soaked pair of handles swung towards him, twisting in his dash to grab whatever weapon had been hurled at him he felt a familiar twinge run through him as one met with his right arm, the other clenched between his teeth. He sniffed at the blood in his mindless wild fit, the smell was wrong, it wasn't his, it wasn't prey.

Bringing the blades up to meet with the assault the shinigami barreled through the attack right to it's core, planting his feet in front of the hollow and dropping the blade from his mouth as he kicked, sending the blade hurtling to embed itself in the bottom of the hollow's mask as he brought up a clenched fist aimed directly for the newly created weakness in it's defense. "Ye lord! Mask of blood and flesh, all creation, flutter of wings, ye who bears the name of Man! Inferno and pandemonium, the sea barrier surges, march on to the south!" He roared "Shakkahƍ!" A bright red light shined inside his fist and a torrent of energy burst forth, exploding outwards to envelop the two combatants as the leader roared and sent his claws flying towards Tenshin's spine.

After the dust settled, the arena now a sporting a medium-sized burnt hole, stood Tenshin with both blades in hand over the corpse of a mask shattered hollow. Although he wasn't moving an inch, and a dribble of blood spurt from his mouth as he attempted to stumble towards the source of his weapons arrival, the enveloping red flame of light directed in every direction to burn even him, cauterizing his wounds in a flash of pain and obliterating the mask of his foe. His blood-misted eyes managed to search past his dirty and crimson-encrusted hair to spot Ryuu bleeding against a tree. "Save the girl, you can sleep later, move, move! Tenshin!" Came the worried voice of his Zanpakuto as he stumbled forward step by crunching step. Chances are the only thing that kept him moving was his will, and by the time he got to Ryuu's side his eyes were faded and dull, he'd fallen unconscious and barely had time to sloppily press his scarf to the worst of her wounds before his body failed him and he collapsed entirely.

Setting

1 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Reika Shinosaki

Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by Mat_z6
(SOOO sorry for the extremely short post but Reika can only take so much of a beating. :( This post is kinda just to get everything moving once again. Sorry for the wait!!)

This is it, isn't it? In the distance, Reika could faintly hear the commotion of her friends desperately fighting and she hoped they wouldn't end up like her. What an embarrassment. Could her little group of friends not hold up against a few hollows? No... It seemed as though she was the only one really having the most trouble. Though she couldn't see what was going on that was what she felt. She should be better than this. She couldn't give up now. Move Reika! Move! Reika raised her head slowly and gave the triumphant hollow a mocking smile. This was probably not a good idea considering her situation. "I-is that... The best you can do?" The hollow, confused that his prey was still kicking in defiance, roared with frustration and the piercing cry rocked Reika's head with a splitting pain. In an attempt to finish her, the creature swung it's torso and slammed Reika's limp body into the ground. The agonizing pain of having the spikes ripping through her insides once more made the half dead Shinigami let out a terrible scream that was cut short as she made contact with the ground. All of her strength was completely gone and Reika could do nothing but lay there motionless. 'Bad idea, Reika... Real bad idea...' The hollow, determined to finally finish the job rose it's body, lifting Reika into the air once again. With the little strength she had, the blonde lifted her head and stared into the grotesque masked face of the hollow. Was there really nothing she could do anymore? The pain was lessening by the second as the girl began to fade away once more.

Failed.... She had failed... Just the thought of her not being able to even put up a fight was more painful than the narrow spikes that impaled her middle. Over and over she begged her body to move. To just do something. But no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't even lift a finger. The hollow, satisfied that it's catch was no longer struggling, swung it's body to the right and flung the limp Shinigami off of it's long spikes. Reika's body flew into a nearby tree and the impact made a hollow *thump* noise as her almost lifeless form slumped like a rag doll at the foot of the trunk. She was bleeding out way too fast. With no way to stop the flow of blood seeping from the numerous puncture wounds made by the hollow, Reika knew she didn't have that much time to live. Somehow managing to rise up on her hands and knees, she desperately looked around for her friends. But it was no use. Her vision, blurred by the blood running down from her head made it impossible to see and the dizziness of blood loss was no help either. Now that she was free from the hollow's grasp, Reika desperately gathered the little strength she had. She had to escape somehow. She had to live. She couldn't die in a place like this. But before she could even think about getting to her feet, a large body was suddenly standing in front of her. It was the hollow. Confused that it's prey even had the strength to rise from the ground, the masked spirit roughly kicked Reika in the side, sending her rolling onto her back. Reika could feel blood coming up her throat from the impact and she spat it out, struggling to breathe. Again the hollow stood above her and she could barely see the outline of it's foot against the moonlight, ready to come down on her. Out of instinct, Reika brought up her Zanpakuto to block the hollow's foot but to her dismay, the hollow's foot went right through, shattering her sword. The impact of the hollow's foot making contact with her chest caused her to black out for just a split second and when she came to she found that she was looking up at the raised bladed hand of the hollow, catching the moonlight on it's polished blade. It was all going to be over soon. 'Help..... Someone... Help me...'

Setting

0 Characters Present

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Earnings

0.00 INK

#, as written by duramon
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