MysT3CH

【Bleach: Souls Adrift】

Unbridled Potential

Team Masuuko
_{Part 4}

---

With baited interest, captain Masumata readied himself - standing upright as to face the others - and addressed them with an inquisitive tone. His senses scanning the surrounding areas as he spoke. “Perhaps we should rendezvous with the others now?” His Mahogany eyes fell upon Reku’s face before quickly shifting upwards. Signaling that his focus had been drawn elsewhere as he tensed his body in preparation for shunpo.

Rēku had begun looking up at the clouds while rain poured down on them. She had begun to get lost in thought before abruptly being brought back to the present as she slowly turned her head to Hiro. “Right. Then I suppose it’s time we move out.” She turned back to the hollow. “Are you ready to come with us?”” She might as well be polite and at least make sure, but as soon as the hollow was ready Rēku would no longer be in that spot as she would have used shunpo to start moving out once more. They were one step closer to getting home.

“Move. Follow. No dawdle.” The Hollow practically seethed as it spoke, its talons scratching the urn’s sides as they dragged across it in what must have been either anxiety or apprehension. It moved to follow after her, and so the Shinigami had for perhaps the first moment in their admittedly long lives to observe a Hollow moving at high speed that was neither fighting nor running from them. Its movements were strange - not the sort of practiced and efficient elegance seen with shunpo. Its strides were irregular, and the motions it made were counter-intuitive. Any human attempting to replicate its strides would have torn their muscles - the Hollow was acting as though it had no need to counteract its own momentum, as though its body might start and stop in whatever position it pleased without consideration of whatever damage it might do to itself or any paltry physical impediments.

It also did not seem to care much for subtlety anymore. The few steps it had taken in the graveyard had been nearly reverent, but now each one carried with it untold force. Asphalt and concrete shattered beneath its hooved feet, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

Kairi would follow the others dutifully bringing up the back of the pack, watching for any ambushes and also observing the peculiar movements of the hollow. It was...different.

And Shizu too followed, keeping a watchful eye on the hollow. She still didn’t trust it.

---

Meanwhile....

Shizuka Tsukikage

Lakeport City - Lake County, California, USA

He had been walking north for only a few minutes before he finally came upon it. His next clue. A smirk lined his lips. Before him, encircled by a square of yellow tape, a corpse debauched under the warmth of the evening sun. Its entirety dwindling as its stench thickened, staining the immediate air around it as coagulated blood did the concrete. Overhead, a single crow, black-feathered and sleek, sat perched upon a nearby ledge. Eyes trained upon the corpse as it waited patiently for those below to take their leave.

It was gruesome, even worst than the others. What had once been a human body was now only a bloody mound of charred flesh, weakly held together by the shattered pieces of bone protruding from it's exterior. Standing behind the yellow tape, Chris continued to look on. Watching a single member of the Lakeport Police Department in particular as the dumbfounded lot continued to take pictures and whisper back and forth. Two of which were clearly on the verge of hurling up the contents of their stomachs. Turning to his left, he watched intently, almost meticulously, as a short yet stocky male officer shimmied under the crime tape and barked orders at the group.

"Nothing right?" Christian's eyes softened as they locked upon the face of the brunette walking towards him. Barely managing to refrain a glance at her rear as she walked by, the man sighed. Dutifully, he then followed.

"I'm really not in the mood today, Cross. This shit is getting out of hand." Despite her confident posture and strides, he could tell by the dip of her head she was on the verge of breaking down. Thus, he remained quiet until they had reached the black mustang which had served as the detective's cruiser.

"It's not them." He walked to the passenger side of the car, holding the door open as she entered the vehicle. Her cobalt eyes following him as he leapt over the hood and without contacting the ground, threw himself into the driver's seat via window. Silently justifying his train of thought. 'They don't completely dismantle their targets... it's all wrong.' The car then roared to life, drowning out the churning of the woman's stomach as she buried her head within her hands. Sobbing softly as Chris maneuvered the vehicle through traffic and took a sharp left. Entering a side road as he gradually increased the pressure he placed upon the gas, easing off every so often as to maintain a speed of sixty miles per hour.

"It was Trina, Chris. That thing, was Trina's friggin' body!" As she raised her head to scream at him, the tears upon her face became visible. The sight of them pained him, but upon his grimed face, it didn't show.

"Em..." His voice faded. Leaving only silence over their heads for the remainder of the drive. Slowing the car to crawl, then stop, he starred blankly at the dashboard before him.

For a few strenuous and rather awkward moments, neither of the pair moved to exit the car. Both instead choosing to blank out as if reminiscing about some far away land. Finally, she pushed open the door. Stepping out and wiping her face prior to entering the eatery to which they had just pulled up at. Snapping back to his senses, Christian followed with due haste. His hands digging into his pockets as he followed the detective into the building. As she made her way to the bar, he simply stood at the entrance. His brown eyes observing the elegant paintings and luxurious mood lighting curiously as he scanned the entirety of the room, almost as if expecting them to leap off of the walls towards him. Once satisfied, he caught up.

Now leaning over the bar next to the obviously distraught woman, Chris watched as she reached into her back pocket, pulling free a thin leather wallet as her pale breasts threatened to fall from her v-neck shirt. Indifferent, Cross continued to eye her intently. Inwardly debating whether the body - or bodies, as this was the fourth, was indicative of an anomaly or not.

"The usual, Mikael. I'm having a rough day." The brunette placed her wallet down on the black marbled counter, leaving her twelve twenty dollar bills, her I.D. and her badge in plain sight as she adjusted her self upon the bar. Placing her left hand to her jaw as she leaned upon her elbow. Having glanced at it, Chris silently read over her name in his head. Emily Elizabeth Rhodes.

"Milk." Christian's voice was unusually lifeless, void of it's natural playfulness as he sat next to the detective and shot a heated glance towards the bar keep. Leaning closer to the long haired haired woman, he attempted to touch her shoulder. She instantly made a big deal of moving away. Looking up only to show Mikael an empty smile. If only for a moment, Cross stiffened, relaxing only after an exhale.

"They'll know we're on their trail Em. These men i'm after." Chris hadn't told her the truth. After all, she wasn't ready for, nor needed to be aware of it. Hence, he had spent the last month posing as an member of the FBI. Claiming that he was in pursuit of a pair of serial killers whom we're believed to hiding out in Lakeport in recent months. Of coarse, it didn't help that Cross actually had no idea for what he was really searching for.

Annoyed, he turned in his seat, moving as to place his back to the platinum haired bar keep. After looking between the two, Mikael quickly turned and walked away, leaving only the two of them around the eatery's bar. Chris then let his gaze fall back onto her, admiring the cuteness in her face as he continued to talk. "Look, i'm sorry it was her love, I really am. But you and I both know that that's just how the story goes.." Before he could utter another word; a strong, albeit soft, hand struck him square across the jaw, causing a thunderous 'clap' to resound throughout the high-ended eatery. Mikael, who had only just returned with their orders, as well as the rest of the patrons, all shot Christian a brief yet disappointed glance.

"You fucker..." While her words were not loud enough to be carried over the collective chattering and music, it was enough to once again cause a now frowning Mikael to draw himself away from his post. "I never wanted a part in this you know, any of it." She paused, fighting some tears to no avail before downing her drink in a single yet large gulp. "You dragged me into it."

The words caused Cross to grow still, as if he himself had become frozen. Had stung at his chest as if an arrow itself had pierced it. As a result, a growl formed in his throat, only to be briefly expelled when he too downed the beverage of which he had just now taken hold. For a few minutes, that was how the two remained. As silent and still as stone. Feeling the slightest buzz of vibration, Chris then quickly whipped out his phone. Immediately, his gaze was met by that of Rhodes'.

While the two did not exchange words, their conjoined glances spoke volumes as he listened to a soft voice speak through the phone. After a moments silence, a clear "Affirmative." from Christian could be heard prior to him glancing at it's screen. The action was inevitably followed by the pocketing of the silver touch screen phone.

Resisting the urge to say anything more, the man clenched a fist, sighed, then relaxed with an exhale. Raising from his seat, he then reached into his side pocket and pulled free a single twenty dollar bill. Placing it squarely upon the top of the milk glass, Chris then continued to turn towards the exit. As he did, something seemed to change in Emily, who sprung up from her seat. Cutting off his "Keep the Change" as she clung to the back of his right sleeve, almost as if begging him not to leave. Her face, which had turned red the instant his sleeve and her hand had touched, now glowed a dim blue under the light as she dragged Christian around as to once again face the bar. Remaining silent as she pulled him back down into his seat, he simply looked back up at the barkeep who shook his head.

"Another perhaps?" Mikael's voice held an air of complacency, giving his words a snide and rather hostile tone as they rolled from his lips.

Responding with a dry "No, thanks." Christian let a sly grin line his face. While it seemed sinister in nature, it added an aura of grandeur to his face. Upon seeing it, Emily could only sigh as she scooped up her wallet and badge, leaving the money owed on the counter top. Having silently accepted a second drink, she then took a sip, a brief smile forming on her lips as she swallowed a bit of the white liquid. Remonstrantly, Christian offered his hand to the barkeep. Softening his grin into a smug smile, he then parted his lips once more.

"Cross." He let his gaze slip from the barkeep's face to that of Emily's for an instant, observing the way she took to the drink before refocusing on the man before him. His tanned skin now holding a green hue under the light. Having noticed both his glance and his gesture, Emily tilted her head slightly. Unsure of what what to make of either as she placed the now half empty glass of Tom Collins back upon the counter. Smirking as the barkeep replied.

"Tu es con."

---

Seated within a black 1967 Chevrolet Impala, Christian intently studied an petite map book of the US he had obtained from a local travel agent. Despite the fact that he was familiar with the states, and that his Chevy had been equipped with the latest GPS technology, he still preferred to plan out his routes the 'old fashioned' way. Though he did so more to cover his tracks, as opposed to personal preference. Especially since his latest contact had clearly grown attached. He tried to dismiss the fact that he had as well.

Once satisfied, and confident that he had located the shortest route to Oregan, home of his next assignment, Cross quickly folded the map away. Throwing his keys into the ignition, he then sighed as the Impala's modified engine roared to life.

And a wooden blade pierced his sternum from his rear.

It was only after he had entered shock, grasping desperately at the carved oak, that laughter could be heard over his gasping breath.

"Oh.... darling." He strained his neck as to look behind him, grunting as the weapon begun to be slowing - and excruciatingly - drawn out of his frame. A hand then firmly grasped him by the jaw, nails like claws digging into his skin as it violently wrung his head around. Nearly breaking his neck. Yet, it was only as his eyes finally came to set upon his attacker that fear twisted his face.

"Shi...zu...ka." He gasped for air between each syllable.

"Miss me?" She tugged on his jaw, snapping his neck.

Feed! Tear! Grow!

The words hit her psyche like bag of bricks. Clashing and tearing at her thoughts with unyielding force as a million voices spoke in stuttered unison. Sending a wave of anxiety through the woman's body as she lept back and away from her victim's body. Smacking her head on the roof of the vehicle before falling onto her side. As they begun again, breaking into a repetitive chant, Shizuka writhed and gripped her head in pain. Sunlight now blinding her as she peered beyond the windshield into the deserted parking lot beyond. All the while screaming in silence.

Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!Feed! Tear! Grow!

At last, she found voice once again. Thus let you an exuberant shriek before once again falling silent. Exhausted from from her internal ordeal. Ignoring the copious volume of sweat now soaking her face, she then maneuvered herself into the passenger seat. Pausing only as to remove her bokken from the corpse before she continued to push it from the car with haste. She then took the wheel. "I'm in control now you fuck."

【Bleach: Souls Adrift】

Unbridled Potential

Team Masuuko
_{Part 3}

---

“Until your little toady returns...what is the need of yours?” The Hollow turned its head and inquired to Reku, its voice faintly ragged.

Slowly standing up again Rēku smiled towards the hollow. “Well that’s simple, you’re going to open a path for us to go home whenever our commander wishes you to. I must confess now. I find it odd. Why is it you’re so different from most Hollows?”

“Not different. Many like me. Only now you notice, now choice stripped of you.” The Adjuchas’ jaw lowered and snapped back up with a harsh, grinding clatter. “But not meek. I do come to hunt. To feed. To kill. To sooth pain. Sometimes. Some days. Do not want to kill. Do not want to feed. Just want to be with little left.” It then turned its grotesque head back to the gravestone for a moment before speaking again. “Give ashes. I will grant you passage nearly anywhere. Everywhere there is power to go. Recently, some places are...barred.”

Rēku pondered momentarily. It was odd. Had she really slaughtered that many Hollows and not cared to notice that some might actually have thoughts? Then it also occurred to her that this Hollow was a means to an end and other than that it was of little importance. If it weren’t for the fact that capturing this thing alive and then getting it to help would be a lot more difficult she honestly would have just attacked it.

“Our comrade will return shortly with the ashes. Hiro, should we have Shizu find the commander and have her inform him of the situation now?”

“No.” His voice is faint and indifferent as his lips parted. His eyes closed as he listened on from his new perched position atop a nearby gravestone. “We’ve already divided our forces. To be blunt, I believe you are giving this hollow far too little credit.” Although, he did not make any motion to suggest his intent, he scanned the area for any sign of approaching threats. After all, they had been stationary now for quite sometime, and hardly subtle about their presence. “Use Tenteikura. Or do as you’d please. My only concern here is the mission. Thus, this hollow.”

Rēku frowned at Hiro before turning back to the Hollow. “So about these barred areas. What areas are we talking about, and do you know the cause of this problem?”

“Hurr...yes. Use of Kumon...tear in creation. Rip in weft of space, yes? Like your use of blades as keys to open your Senkaimon passageway.” The Hollow waved one of its taloned hands through the air breezily as it spoke. “Use power as key, unlock fold, create tear...but...some force in the other world. In Soul Society. Already contorting space. Powerful - cannot fold it in the proper way to form a Kumon. It is around Seireitei - the area outside no, but beyond the walls...impossible to reach. If you want to reach inside, you will need more than just a Kumon. You will need a Garganta. The door to the Kumon’s key. Would bypass the contorted space entirely, but few can create them - most in Las Noches. Not one of their number, I.”

“So you are useless.” At this, Hiro’s eyes shot open. Gaze locked about the hollow’s frame. “What we need, you cannot provide.” He momentarily batted raindrops out of his eyes, his rainwashed hair now plastered to his face.

“Oh? You have need to go to Seireitei?” The Hollow let loose another dry, rattling laugh. “The woman said I would receive instruction from your...commander, yes? Is their intent known by you?”

With a sigh Rēku scratched her head. This new development was not exactly good news, but it was good information to know at the very least. “Is there some way you’d be able to help us get there, or acquire the means by which we would need to get there? The commander won’t be too happy otherwise…”

“I can open a path into Rukongai...right up to the silent walls.” The Adjuchas replied somewhat stiffly. “You will find no other Hollow here in the world of the living that can do better, outcast.”

“You’re an arrogant hollow, aren’t you?” Shizu mused, unable to contain her chuckle.

For the first time today, Hiro actually chuckled. Allowing his head to tilt backwards in amusement at the hollow’s words. “A Survivor this one.”

“All Hollows survivors, petulant morsel. Survive agony of emptied heart. Survive others of our kind. Survive pawns like you.” It was hard to tell, but the Adjuchas almost sounded - annoyed. Something Hiro noticed, thus smirked.

A few minutes passed and then, in a flash, Kairi arrived, or...returned rather, an urn in her arms. “Ayo m’back. Took a bit longer than expected, there were some obstacles,” she chuckled to herself a bit and set the large urn down on the ground next to her. “So who wants to do the honors, eh?”
She glanced between the members of her team.

“Or shall I?”

The Adjuchas moved. With their immaculate senses, most of the Shinigami present could follow its motion easily enough - and know that the creature was just as fast, if not faster, than most of them. At distances this short it would have been prudent to already had weapons drawn - but thankfully the monstrous creature did not seem intent on attack. Before Kairi or the others could possibly have stopped the Adjuchas, it had gone from sitting to standing over the urn on the ground - one talon touching down on the tin’s cap with a soft clack while the other slammed into the paved walkway with force belying rage barely kept in check.

“THIS.” The Adjuchas yowled at Kairi. “THIS. THIS...is it?!? This is the urn? The ashes are in this? This is MINE?” It practically roared the last word at her, the outburst likely audible from outside the cemetery. The Hollow’s caustic reiatsu was roiling and churning, still being suppressed but faintly unleashed, the surrounding grass dying and stonework beginning to crumble to dust.

Kairi, however, had more pressing concerns. Namely, now that she was no longer carrying the urn and that she was looking down at it - she had forgotten to remove the picture taped to the side. The Adjuchas had not seen it - it was on the opposite side of the urn - but if it decided to examine the urn more closely, that would mean trouble. She could try to snatch the picture away of course, but if the Adjuchas had senses to match its speed, with its attention already focused on her…

She gritted her teeth as the hollow rather suddenly--though not so much so as to catch her off guard--closed the distance between itself and the urn. It was unfortunately only after it was so near that the lieutenant noticed the picture still taped to the side.

Having taken a small step back, Kairi decided to take a risk, letting the movement lead into her crouching down, making her more or less level with the hollow. She popped in a piece of gum and chewed it, not obnoxiously like before. It seemed the urn had once housed its very own ashes. Knowing what she did about the man who had been in possession of it, she didn’t feel the least bit bad about having likely traumatized him. Reaching a hand forwards she placed the palm of her hand on the urn, eyes aimed at the hollow’s own.

She had no real presence and no killing intent. Her own posture was entirely at ease, but not to the extent to imply that the hollow wasn’t a possible threat. “Yeah, the guy who had it was a real ass too,” she said, “...kind of glad to get the thing out of his possession.” Her words were smooth, her heartbeat steady, and her body language revealed not a single hint of the lie. She’d manipulated before.

She ran her hand along the side of the urn and as she let her fingernail slip onto the seam of the paper, allowing her to get a grip, she blew and then popped a bubble. The sound likely drowning out the smaller noise of her using a tiny movement of her dextrous hands to remove the picture.

“Interesting you took the time to put a piece of gum into your mouth.” Shizu mused aloud, eyes locked on Kairi as if searching for a reason why she had to chew a piece of gum while she did that incredible feat of what she just did. A few came to mind but none that were concrete. She would have to put a pause on that for now. Her eyes returned to the Hollow, narrowing them by just the slightest inch. He was a fast one, and Shizu would keep herself in the same on-edge stance that she had been in - hand on katana, ready to draw if need be.

“GET AWAY!” The Hollow screamed at Kairi, lashing out at her with obscene speed and bludgeoning her with its free arm. This proved to be fortuitous - the blow to her was little more than a love-tap, but the force from it allowed her to tear the photo off and retreat without being caught. The Hollow immediately scooped up the urn and held it aloft, turning away from the Shinigami as it spun the tin in its oversized talons, examining it. Instantly it went from enraged to placid, seemingly entranced by the cheap, featureless metal and the clasp that kept the cap secure.

Kairi didn’t even flinch, but braced herself, letting one knee touch the ground, while her other foot became planted so that she was kneeling. The strike made contact, but no pain went over her face, she seemed unphased and besides, she’d succeeded. In the moment, she allowed herself to be pushed back slightly and in doing so moved her right-paper holding-hand to steady herself. In doing this she placed the paper on the ground behind her foot and then stood up and used her heel to conceal sliding the paper to her left side. As she did so she gazed down at the hollow with a blank, but slightly threatening expression.

The strike had been nothing to her, but she still didn’t much like getting hit and then not retaliating. Tapping her toe against the ground and flicking the rolled up paper ball upwards she caught it in her left hand, which she moved to her hip, deftly flattening it despite its crumpled up state, and dropping it into her pocket noiselessly.

She let her weight sit on one foot as her hand reached her hip, the slightest of impassionate glares aimed at the hollow. “We got you what you asked for, yet you act ungratefully,” she said, no joy or sympathy in her voice anymore. “...don’t hit me again,” she warned, and then walked back over to the rest of the group before turning back to face the hollow. If Hiro even gave her a look, he’d receive a harsh, warning glare.

Kairi had never cared about rank. She’d fight anyone, and she was no longer in a particularly good mood. To further point to this fact, she spat her gum out to the side. It was aimed nowhere near the hollow...fortunately.

She gestured at Reku, “I’ve done my part. You can handle negotiations. Well, you and Yanagi-san,” she said, referring to the Commander, before she shut her eyes and quietly breathed deeply to calm herself.

“No more worthless words.” The Hollow declared, turning back to face the group of Shinigami. “You retrieved urn. I will do as you ask. Once. Then I will be made whole again with this.” It shook the urn in its upraised claws. “Could devour now, but no telling if I could still open Kumon once whole. I tell you this in good faith.”

【Bleach: Souls Adrift】

【Les Entrada】

Full Body

【Inception】

_{~"Forfeit control... and squirm."~}

Hider

【Personal Info】

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【Name: Les Entrada
【Nicknames: The Ancient One
【Age: Approx. 2000
【Gender: Male
【Race: Human → Plus → Hollow
【Form: Gillian

【Appearance Info: Despite being a Gillian, it does not have the uniform appearance of its kind. While the vast majority of its body adheres to the standard black coloring, it has a mask which more closely resembles a skull. Unlike the typical Gillian, the mask almost completely covers the top half of its face, leaving the lower jaw, mouth, and chin exposed. It has an extremely long tongue, a fact which is hidden due to its mouth extending to the back of its elongated neck. However, it should be noted that Les Entrada also stands at approx. 6 stories in height. Possessing segments of bones lining portions of its body. Its arms are large and bat-like in shape, with thin, translucent webbing between each finger. Which, due to their extraordinarily elongated nature, can also be used as wings. Although it's body appears prominently reptilian, it is also capable of walking upright, upon it's hind legs. At which point, it folds its wings in as to form a sort of cloak. It is at this time that it reaches its full height, on all fours, this height is divided by three. A large Hollow hole is located on its sternum. Large enough to fit a bus through. Les Entrada's skin constantly drips as in is stuck in an endless loop of putrefaction.

【Biography: Although the truth of its origins remain unknown, the terror that is Les Entrada is said to be the accumulation of the first souls which were consumed in Hueco Mundo over the millennia. While its appearance within Huecco Mundo was once common place, with records of its appearance dating as far back as two thousand years ago, it seemed to retreat into solitude roughly five hundred years ago. In fact, its existence would have been passed off as mere myth, were it not reported responsible for the deaths of several shinigami squads over the span of that time. Thus, it eventually became feared by inexperienced shinigami as a pseudo boogeyman among hollows. An unstoppable force which, if met, would devour all. Interestingly, the story was much the same for the hollows. Many of which feared the beast they came to name Les Entrada. Fearing not its form, but its ability to consume from within. Despite having failed to evolve past the gillian state, it remains one of the most feared hollows among shinigami. As of late, there have been reports which claim it now dwells within the human world.


【Personality: A cold, ruthless, and malevolent force. Les Entrada is a true alexithymic. Completely devoid of love, compassion, and mercy. While it believes the world to be "rotten." Thus uses its abilities as a means by which it can enact its will to rid the world of "unworthy" people. As a monster feared for its ferocity, and often, extreme cruelty, it rarely aims to kill until its target has been completely disabled and humiliated. Hence freely taunts and belittles its opponents, often allowing them to inflict seemingly fatal wounds before healing itself and counterattacking. The only exception being when it is in a starved state. At which point it seems to focus solely on killing its prey as efficiently as possible. It should be noted that this is its most dangerous stage.

Yet, the beast is not simply one of instinct. Possessing a sort of hive mind. Ruled a conglomerate of distinct aspects; Destruction - which fuels its aggression and willingness to engage in combat, Greed - which fuels its desire to consume. Not to be confused with Intoxication - which governs the enjoyment of the act. Loneliness - which pushes it to seek out others. And lastly, Madness - which governs the barbarous nature of all its actions. While these aspects were all once the individual personalities of those it had consumed, each has been warped throughout the ages into the raw characteristics they now embody. Whenever two or more of these aspects come into conflict, decisions are made when one of the aspects manage to rally the support of most of its many souls behind it.

While it frequently displays exemplary intelligence, the only time this intelligence is obviously recognizable is when it possesses another entity. At which point, provided it is inherently capable of speech, it will on occasion utter simple, yet blunt phrases. Although the words spoken are dependent on which aspect has currently rallied the most support.

【Notable Traits】

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【Likes/Dislikes】
As the Entity that is Les Entrada possesses no specific persona, existing simply to exist, it neither likes nor dislikes anything.

【Defining Traits】

Positive

▲ Confident
▲ Daring
▲ Intuitive
▲ Intelligent

Neutral

☯ Indifferent
☯ Aggressive
☯ Deceptive
☯ Opportunistic

Negative

▼ Cantankerous
▼ Unrestrained
▼ Imitative
▼ Hedonistic

【Relationships】

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-

-

【Capabilities】

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【General Aptitude】

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Fighting Style:

When possessing a host, Les Entrada tends to adapt an incredibly reckless and offensive strategy. Attacking the enemy with the full extent of it's host's capabilities, without concern for their well being. It will even go as far as sacrificing its current host in order to subdue a potentially fatal foe. However, when fighting without a host, Entrada fights much as one might expect from an wild animal. Albeit, a wild six story dragon, but an animal none the less. Often moving to subdue opponents with its massive size and clawed limbs. Although it should be noted that it is proficient in the use of its tail, its true gimmick is its jaw. As Les Entrada rarely resorts to fully extending its jaw, most enemies assume its bite to possess a normal range for its size. Yet, when it does fully utilize the capability of its jaw size, it is capable of fitting the entire width of the average Menos within its mouth.

Reiryoku: 2
Reiatsu: 1
Integrity: 0

Mask: 2
Hunger: 1
Rigidity: 5
Instinct 1

Form: 5
Offense: 3
Defense: 2
Strength: 2

Power: 3
Hollow Power: 2
Perception: 2

Speed: 0
Agility: 1
Biorythm: 2

【Specialization】

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Novio Cero:

Although it has a very large charge time, Les Entrada launches ceros in the form of a stream of flames. Although these cero maintain the standard red coloring, they look as if Entrada is simply breathing bright red flames. Flames which, upon contact, set the target ablaze. Thus, while they deal less concusive damage than the average cero, they also sustained damage over time. Provided the target remains ablaze.

Cero Envolversa

After preparing as it would for a Novio Cero, Les Entrada can detonate the cero within its mouth. Then, by creating small openings in its mouth along its neck, engulf itself within it. Wearing it as a type of cloak. This allows it to set ablaze any non reiatsu protected substance in its flame.

【Hollow Ability】

_{~"With him inside me, I am whole."~}

Comienzo: When completely subjugated by its aspect of loneliness in the presence of another living being, Les Entrada is capable of possessing it. While it is capable of, in theory, doing so indefinitely, there are a myriad of factors which ultimately effect its ability to do so. They are as follows;

Ability Rules

Possession Timer: The length of time in which it can possess a body before having to make a second possession attempt, subject to the rules below.

Expulsion Timer: The length of time needed to expel it from a soul which is parasitically infested but not under its control.

The relative length of both Timers is dependent upon whether or not the Entrada is currently in combat or not. When out of combat, the Possession Timer is an entire hour long, while the Expulsion Timer is equal to an hour times the difference between its Hollow Power score and either the Victim's Alignment or Resonance (or Hollow Power) score. During combat however, the Soul undergoes extreme stress that shortens both timers considerably. In combat, the Possession Timer is only five minutes long, while the Expulsion Timer is equal to five minutes times the difference in its Hollow Power score and either the victim's Resonance or Alignment (or Hollow Power) score.

If it fails an attempt to take control of a Host, it may make another attempt either once per hour or once every five minutes, dependent upon whether the host body is in or out of combat.

For Possessing Shinigami:

1. Before attempting possession, its Hollow Power score is compared with the victim's Resonance and Alignment scores. If either the victim's Resonance or Alignment scores are greater than its Hollow Power score, possession is impossible and any attempts made result in immediate ejection from the soul.

2. If its Hollow Power score is equal to or greater than the victim's Resonance and Alignment scores, it may burrow into their soul and then attempt to seize control over it. Entering the inner world of the host soul and engagig in mental combat with the owner. For the purposes of combat within the inner world, most of its stats will no longer be relevant since the battle is purely mental, and so its physical attributes and skills are no longer relevant. Instead, Les Entrada must use only its Reiryoku, Instinct, and Hollow Power scores to determine its relative strength, while the Shinigami must use only their Reiryoku, Alignment, and Resilience scores to determine their relative strength.

3. If it the mental battle, they cannot take control of the host soul, and the Expulsion Timer begins to count down.

4. If it wins the mental battle, it gains control over the host soul, and the Possession Timer begins to count down. All of the host soul's spiritual powers are supplanted by those of Entrada's instead, meaning their reiatsu would become caustic and they would gain its Hollow abilities. Entrada would retain only the physical stats of the host body while possessing it.

5. After each successful possession attempt, Entrada may choose to corrupt 1 point of the host soul's Reiryoku. If all of a host soul's Reiryoku is corrupted, they die and are consumed by it. However, for each point of their Reiryoku corrupted this way, they gain a bonus point of Alignment for all subsequent mental battles. It may choose not to corrupt a point of the host's Reiryoku and potentially occupy their body indefinitely if it can reliably subdue the host's mental persona.

6. A Shinigami can only use their Resonance score to prevent possession and to expel Etrada if they have their Zanpakuto. If they are disarmed prior to possession, they cannot use their Resonance score, even if it is higher than its Hollow Power score. If Entrada takes control over their soul, it can discard their Zanpakuto in order to completely get rid of the Expulsion Timer until the Zanpakuto is brought back into close proximity. However, this also means the Expulsion Timer is always running for as long as the host body is close to the Zanpakuto.

7. A Shinigami can only use their Alignment score to prevent possession and to expel Entrada if they have access to specific Alignment techniques. If they do not have access to these Alignment techniques, they cannot use their Alignment score, even if it is higher than its Hollow Power score. Additionally, even if the Shinigami does have access to those specific Alignment techniques, the Expulsion Timer will only run if Entrada does not have control over the host soul.

For Possessing Hollows:

1. As with Shinigami, only instead compare both respective Hollow Power scores instead.

2. As with Shinigami, but for the mental battle both opponents use their respective Reiryoku, Instinct, and Hollow Power scores.

3. As with Shinigami.

4. As with Shinigami, except its spiritual powers do not supplant theirs. Entrada instead gains complete access to all of their stats, Hollow Powers, and their unique ability.

5. As with Shinigami, except the host soul gains a bonus point to Instinct for each point of their Reiryoku it chooses to corrupt.

6. A Hollow may always use its Hollow Power score to prevent possession and to expel it. However, the Expulsion Timer will only run if Entrada is not in control of the host soul.

Ability Techniques

Hider

Hoyo Negro: The technique used by Les Entrada to enter the bodies of its prey. It allows the hollow to momentarily project its spirit essence into the victim, initiating the battle for dominance. The projection always enters the body via the chest, appearing to phase through the spot where their heart or hollow hole would be, and then into their being.

【Current Host】

Hider

【Shizuka Tsukikage - Manzurei】

【Pain is the Only Truth in this World of Lies】

_{~"I fight for myself now."~}

Hider

【Personal Info】

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【Name: Shizuka Tsukikage
【Nicknames: Shi-Shi, Manzurei
【Alias: Tomoe Odage
【Age: 279
【Age Appearance: 24
【Gender: Female
【Race: Shinigami
【Former Rank: Criminal Exile

【Additional Appearance Info: Shizuka stands at five feet seven inches, weighing in at one hundred and twenty four pounds. Despite her slender build, Shizuka has wide hips and sizable breasts. Her hair is long, straight and dyed dark blue. Styled with a triangular fringe at the front that barely touches the ridge of her nose. Her eyes are a clear blue. Her lips tinted a pale pink. As Tomoe, Shizuka wears a black sports bra, a pair of black skinny jeans, and a set of low-cut Chuck Taylors. Which are all black. A black sword bag is also always carried with her, in which she keeps a wooden bokken sword. As her zanpakuto was destroyed by the Central 46 following her sentence to exile.

【Personality: In light of her sarcastic and witty nature, Shizuka always acts in an intelligent and aristocratic manner. Frequently using honorifics when addressing everyone, ally and enemy a like. A feat which often causes her to appear apathetic towards others, even whilst internally conflicted. Due to her upbringing, Shizuka generally reacts indifferently, nigh arrogantly, to most situations she is faced with. Rarely viewing an opponent, or obstacle, as being worth her time. It should also be noted that in lieu of acts of immediate violence, Shizuka will often resort to sadistic and tortuous means of retaliation when offended. In addition to being a sadist, Shizuka is also a masochist and blood thirsty by nature. She has come to resent the soul society for exiling her to the world of the living so very long ago.

Reir: 2
Rei: 2
Align: 1
Zan: 5
Off: 5
Def: 5
Reso: 1
Hak: 2
Off: 0
Def: 2
Phy: 2
Kido: 2
KP: 1
Per: 1
Hoho: 2
Mob: 1
Resil: 2

【Bleach: Souls Adrift】

【Les Entrada】

Full Body

【Inception】

_{~"Forfeit control... and squirm."~}

Hider

【Personal Info】

Hider

【Name: Les Entrada
【Nicknames: The Ancient One
【Age: Approx. 2000
【Gender: Male
【Race: Human → Plus → Hollow
【Form: Gillian

【Appearance Info: Despite being a Gillian, it does not have the uniform appearance of its kind. While the vast majority of its body adheres to the standard black coloring, it has a mask which more closely resembles a skull. Unlike the typical Gillian, the mask almost completely covers the top half of its face, leaving the lower jaw, mouth, and chin exposed. It has an extremely long tongue, a fact which is hidden due to its mouth extending to the back of its elongated neck. However, it should be noted that Les Entrada also stands at approx. 6 stories in height. Possessing segments of bones lining portions of its body. Its arms are large and bat-like in shape, with thin, translucent webbing between each finger. Which, due to their extraordinarily elongated nature, can also be used as wings. Although it's body appears prominently reptilian, it is also capable of walking upright, upon it's hind legs. At which point, it folds its wings in as to form a sort of cloak. It is at this time that it reaches its full height, on all fours, this height is divided by three. A large Hollow hole is located on its sternum. Large enough to fit a bus through. Les Entrada's skin constantly drips as in is stuck in an endless loop of putrefaction.

【Biography: Although the truth of its origins remain unknown, the terror that is Les Entrada is said to be the accumulation of the first souls which were consumed in Hueco Mundo over the millennia. While its appearance within Huecco Mundo was once common place, with records of its appearance dating as far back as two thousand years ago, it seemed to retreat into solitude roughly five hundred years ago. In fact, its existence would have been passed off as mere myth, were it not reported responsible for the deaths of several shinigami squads over the span of that time. Thus, it eventually became feared by inexperienced shinigami as a pseudo boogeyman among hollows. An unstoppable force which, if met, would devour all. Interestingly, the story was much the same for the hollows. Many of which feared the beast they came to name Les Entrada. Fearing not its form, but its ability to consume from within. Despite having failed to evolve past the gillian state, it remains one of the most feared hollows among shinigami. As of late, there have been reports which claim it now dwells within the human world.


【Personality: A cold, ruthless, and malevolent force. Les Entrada is a true alexithymic. Completely devoid of love, compassion, and mercy. While it believes the world to be "rotten." Thus uses its abilities as a means by which it can enact its will to rid the world of "unworthy" people. As a monster feared for its ferocity, and often, extreme cruelty, it rarely aims to kill until its target has been completely disabled and humiliated. Hence freely taunts and belittles its opponents, often allowing them to inflict seemingly fatal wounds before healing itself and counterattacking. The only exception being when it is in a starved state. At which point it seems to focus solely on killing its prey as efficiently as possible. It should be noted that this is its most dangerous stage.

Yet, the beast is not simply one of instinct. Possessing a sort of hive mind. Ruled a conglomerate of distinct aspects; Destruction - which fuels its aggression and willingness to engage in combat, Greed - which fuels its desire to consume. Not to be confused with Intoxication - which governs the enjoyment of the act. Loneliness - which pushes it to seek out others. And lastly, Madness - which governs the barbarous nature of all its actions. While these aspects were all once the individual personalities of those it had consumed, each has been warped throughout the ages into the raw characteristics they now embody. Whenever two or more of these aspects come into conflict, decisions are made when one of the aspects manage to rally the support of most of its many souls behind it.

While it frequently displays exemplary intelligence, the only time this intelligence is obviously recognizable is when it possesses another entity. At which point, provided it is inherently capable of speech, it will on occasion utter simple, yet blunt phrases. Although the words spoken are dependent on which aspect has currently rallied the most support.

【Notable Traits】

Hider

【Likes/Dislikes】
As the Entity that is Les Entrada possesses no specific persona, existing simply to exist, it neither likes nor dislikes anything.

【Defining Traits】

Positive

▲ Confident
▲ Daring
▲ Intuitive
▲ Intelligent

Neutral

☯ Indifferent
☯ Aggressive
☯ Deceptive
☯ Opportunistic

Negative

▼ Cantankerous
▼ Unrestrained
▼ Imitative
▼ Hedonistic

【Relationships】

Hider

-

-

【Capabilities】

Hider

【General Aptitude】

Hider

Fighting Style:

When possessing a host, Les Entrada tends to adapt an incredibly reckless and offensive strategy. Attacking the enemy with the full extent of it's host's capabilities, without concern for their well being. It will even go as far as sacrificing its current host in order to subdue a potentially fatal foe. However, when fighting without a host, Entrada fights much as one might expect from an wild animal. Albeit, a wild six story dragon, but an animal none the less. Often moving to subdue opponents with its massive size and clawed limbs. Although it should be noted that it is proficient in the use of its tail, its true gimmick is its jaw. As Les Entrada rarely resorts to fully extending its jaw, most enemies assume its bite to possess a normal range for its size. Yet, when it does fully utilize the capability of its jaw size, it is capable of fitting the entire width of the average Menos within its mouth.

Reiryoku: 2
Reiatsu: 1
Integrity: 0

Mask: 2
Hunger: 1
Rigidity: 5
Instinct 1

Form: 5
Offense: 3
Defense: 2
Strength: 2

Power: 3
Hollow Power: 2
Perception: 2

Speed: 0
Agility: 1
Biorythm: 2

【Specialization】

Hider

Novio Cero:

Although it has a very large charge time, Les Entrada launches ceros in the form of a stream of flames. Although these cero maintain the standard red coloring, they look as if Entrada is simply breathing bright red flames. Flames which, upon contact, set the target ablaze. Thus, while they deal less concusive damage than the average cero, they also sustained damage over time. Provided the target remains ablaze.

Cero Envolversa

After preparing as it would for a Novio Cero, Les Entrada can detonate the cero within its mouth. Then, by creating small openings in its mouth along its neck, engulf itself within it. Wearing it as a type of cloak. This allows it to set ablaze any non reiatsu protected substance in its flame.

【Hollow Ability】

_{~"With him inside me, I am whole."~}

Comienzo: When completely subjugated by its aspect of loneliness in the presence of another living being, Les Entrada is capable of possessing it. While it is capable of, in theory, doing so indefinitely, there are a myriad of factors which ultimately effect its ability to do so. They are as follows;

Ability Rules

Possession Timer: The length of time in which it can possess a body before having to make a second possession attempt, subject to the rules below.

Expulsion Timer: The length of time needed to expel it from a soul which is parasitically infested but not under its control.

The relative length of both Timers is dependent upon whether or not the Entrada is currently in combat or not. When out of combat, the Possession Timer is an entire hour long, while the Expulsion Timer is equal to an hour times the difference between its Hollow Power score and either the Victim's Alignment or Resonance (or Hollow Power) score. During combat however, the Soul undergoes extreme stress that shortens both timers considerably. In combat, the Possession Timer is only five minutes long, while the Expulsion Timer is equal to five minutes times the difference in its Hollow Power score and either the victim's Resonance or Alignment (or Hollow Power) score.

If it fails an attempt to take control of a Host, it may make another attempt either once per hour or once every five minutes, dependent upon whether the host body is in or out of combat.

For Possessing Shinigami:

1. Before attempting possession, its Hollow Power score is compared with the victim's Resonance and Alignment scores. If either the victim's Resonance or Alignment scores are greater than its Hollow Power score, possession is impossible and any attempts made result in immediate ejection from the soul.

2. If its Hollow Power score is equal to or greater than the victim's Resonance and Alignment scores, it may burrow into their soul and then attempt to seize control over it. Entering the inner world of the host soul and engagig in mental combat with the owner. For the purposes of combat within the inner world, most of its stats will no longer be relevant since the battle is purely mental, and so its physical attributes and skills are no longer relevant. Instead, Les Entrada must use only its Reiryoku, Instinct, and Hollow Power scores to determine its relative strength, while the Shinigami must use only their Reiryoku, Alignment, and Resilience scores to determine their relative strength.

3. If it the mental battle, they cannot take control of the host soul, and the Expulsion Timer begins to count down.

4. If it wins the mental battle, it gains control over the host soul, and the Possession Timer begins to count down. All of the host soul's spiritual powers are supplanted by those of Entrada's instead, meaning their reiatsu would become caustic and they would gain its Hollow abilities. Entrada would retain only the physical stats of the host body while possessing it.

5. After each successful possession attempt, Entrada may choose to corrupt 1 point of the host soul's Reiryoku. If all of a host soul's Reiryoku is corrupted, they die and are consumed by it. However, for each point of their Reiryoku corrupted this way, they gain a bonus point of Alignment for all subsequent mental battles. It may choose not to corrupt a point of the host's Reiryoku and potentially occupy their body indefinitely if it can reliably subdue the host's mental persona.

6. A Shinigami can only use their Resonance score to prevent possession and to expel Etrada if they have their Zanpakuto. If they are disarmed prior to possession, they cannot use their Resonance score, even if it is higher than its Hollow Power score. If Entrada takes control over their soul, it can discard their Zanpakuto in order to completely get rid of the Expulsion Timer until the Zanpakuto is brought back into close proximity. However, this also means the Expulsion Timer is always running for as long as the host body is close to the Zanpakuto.

7. A Shinigami can only use their Alignment score to prevent possession and to expel Entrada if they have access to specific Alignment techniques. If they do not have access to these Alignment techniques, they cannot use their Alignment score, even if it is higher than its Hollow Power score. Additionally, even if the Shinigami does have access to those specific Alignment techniques, the Expulsion Timer will only run if Entrada does not have control over the host soul.

For Possessing Hollows:

1. As with Shinigami, only instead compare both respective Hollow Power scores instead.

2. As with Shinigami, but for the mental battle both opponents use their respective Reiryoku, Instinct, and Hollow Power scores.

3. As with Shinigami.

4. As with Shinigami, except its spiritual powers do not supplant theirs. Entrada instead gains complete access to all of their stats, Hollow Powers, and their unique ability.

5. As with Shinigami, except the host soul gains a bonus point to Instinct for each point of their Reiryoku it chooses to corrupt.

6. A Hollow may always use its Hollow Power score to prevent possession and to expel it. However, the Expulsion Timer will only run if Entrada is not in control of the host soul.

Ability Techniques

Hider

Hoyo Negro: The technique used by Les Entrada to enter the bodies of its prey. It allows the hollow to momentarily project its spirit essence into the victim, initiating the battle for dominance. The projection always enters the body via the chest, appearing to phase through the spot where their heart or hollow hole would be, and then into their being.

【Current Host】

Hider

【Shizuka Tsukikage - Manzurei】

【Pain is the Only Truth in this World of Lies】

_{~"I fight for myself now."~}

Hider

【Personal Info】

Hider

【Name: Shizuka Tsukikage
【Nicknames: Shi-Shi, Manzurei
【Alias: Tomoe Odage
【Age: 279
【Age Appearance: 24
【Gender: Female
【Race: Shinigami
【Former Rank: Criminal Exile

【Additional Appearance Info: Shizuka stands at five feet seven inches, weighing in at one hundred and twenty four pounds. Despite her slender build, Shizuka has wide hips and sizable breasts. Her hair is long, straight and dyed dark blue. Styled with a triangular fringe at the front that barely touches the ridge of her nose. Her eyes are a clear blue. Her lips tinted a pale pink. As Tomoe, Shizuka wears a black sports bra, a pair of black skinny jeans, and a set of low-cut Chuck Taylors. Which are all black. A black sword bag is also always carried with her, in which she keeps a wooden bokken sword. As her zanpakuto was destroyed by the Central 46 following her sentence to exile.

【Personality: In light of her sarcastic and witty nature, Shizuka always acts in an intelligent and aristocratic manner. Frequently using honorifics when addressing everyone, ally and enemy a like. A feat which often causes her to appear apathetic towards others, even whilst internally conflicted. Due to her upbringing, Shizuka generally reacts indifferently, nigh arrogantly, to most situations she is faced with. Rarely viewing an opponent, or obstacle, as being worth her time. It should also be noted that in lieu of acts of immediate violence, Shizuka will often resort to sadistic and tortuous means of retaliation when offended. In addition to being a sadist, Shizuka is also a masochist and blood thirsty by nature. She has come to resent the soul society for exiling her to the world of the living so very long ago.

Reir: 2
Rei: 2
Align: 1
Zan: 5
Off: 5
Def: 5
Reso: 1
Hak: 2
Off: 0
Def: 2
Phy: 2
Kido: 2
KP: 1
Per: 1
Hoho: 2
Mob: 1
Resil: 2

【Bleach: Souls Adrift】

Unbridled Potential

Team Masuuko
_{Part 2}

---

Hiro and Rēku found the Hollow almost immediately upon their arrival at the cemetery - it was a large creature, looming over the many headstones, and was making no effort to hide itself beyond suppressing its own reiatsu - though they could clearly discern the immense power the monster concealed. It was an Adjuchas - precisely what the Taikou wanted. Subduing it safely would be tricky, but hopefully not too difficult between the four of them. Assuming the two lieutenants could stop fighting for a moment.

The Hollow was sitting cross-legged before a particular headstone. It raised its head at their approach and snorted, rolling coils of caustic reiatsu biting into the stonework and causing it to dissolve. Upon inspection, the Adjuchas greatly resembled some kind of twisted satyr, with the legs and skull of a goat but the body of a man. Its Hollow hole was embedded in its right thigh.

“Shinigami.” It rasped. “Did not come to hunt. Pay respects to companion from first life. Will leave soon. Not cause trouble. Leave me to my misery.”

Arriving only moments after the two captains, having utterly abandoned Shizu--not really caring if she had more shade to throw-- Kairi glanced around. “A cemetery? That’s fitting,” she said, before laying eyes on the hollow.

Shizu was the last one to arrive. Curse my lack of ability in Shunpo. She silently cursed as her light blue eyes fell upon the Hollow. She was no more than three paces away from the others and several more paces from the hollow. She would soak in all that she could. Now was the time to listen, Shizu, not speak.

It looked...oddly peaceful, despite being grotesque. “Instead of mourning then, why not join ‘em, eh hollow?” She smirked and raised a fist, the threat implied.

Although he remained silent, Hiro quickly raised his fists. Sinking into a low and streamlined stance as his face grew grim.

The Hollow snorted again in response, more coils of its toxic reiatsu rolling across the ground. “It is not your duty. No malice. Will not hunt. Do not disrespect this place. Only place loss is greater.”

With a sigh Rēku looked sympathetically at the hollow. “You see, as much as I wish we could...Well we need you. So either you come with us willingly, or we have orders to drag you back if need be.”

The Hollow met eyes with her for a moment - its were but empty hole within its mask, bottomless and hurtful to look into. A single moment passed.

“You...are not Junsei...are you.” It stated the question flatly. Without waiting for a response, it slowly rose to its feet, and its long, burgeoning arms uncoiled from its lap - roiling with cords of muscle and ending with long digits and talons almost half as long as its whole body.

“You...are outcasts. Cast from where you belong. No different than Hollows now.” It laughed then, a rasping, rattling noise like bones clattering on the stone-tiled pavement. Its reiatsu was still suppressed for the moment, but clearly it had gone from being reticent to hostile.

"No different from Hollows?" Hiro’s voice seemed to deepen with each syllable, adopting a more predatory tone. "Hollows are scum. Filth which feeds on the very essence of others in order to sustain the infestation that is their life." He began to exert his reiatsu, surrounding himself with a faint crimson glow. Then proceeded to raise his voice. "We-"

Kairi interjected, “Happen to exist to help them, technically.” She shrugged a bit and glanced at Hiro, “As much as I enjoy a good fight, it’d be easier to cooperate with a hollow than force one to open a portal for us. So...maybe let Reku talk for just a minute, pretty please?” She beamed up at the taller man, having lowered her fists to her sides. She’d even stopped chewing gum. “Though, I will say that’s a low blow, Mr. Hollow. For someone not wanting to be disturbed, you really don’t know how to mind your manners.” she admonished, though she was essentially joking when she said it, whilst waggling her finger in the air, before letting it drop.

“All that aside, any chance you’d be willing to help us?”

“Help Shinigami…?” The Hollow sounded genuinely perplexed. It had turned its skull to leer hungrily at Hiro - or perhaps warily, it was hard to tell. “With for what…? Pitiful secrets of the soul in trade for a blade through the visage of my heart…? For what purpose would I help your kind…?”

With a shrug Rēku spoke up again. “Well as you said: we’re exiles now. Outcasts, so it’s not as if all the rules need to apply anymore. Perhaps we can make some sort of an arrangement?” It was rather different making a deal like this, but honestly it had been five years since being exiled, why the hell not.

There was no hesitation, simply a shunpo. One which landed him directly between both Rēku and the Adjuchas. His zanpakuto now manifested within his hand, blade extended towards Rēku’s throat. Yet, his eyes never left that of the hollow’s frame.

“Our duty is to destroy them. Anyone who forgets that, can no longer consider themselves Shinigami.” There was a dire seriousness within his eyes. The Adjuchas’ shoulders twitched, and its arms hung down from its body with visible tension as it watched. A faint clicking noise like stone grinding against bone echoed from its maw, but otherwise it was silent.

With a smirk Rēku glanced at Hiro out of the corner of her eye. “Then are saying that the commander is no shinigami? After all he is the one that instructed us to find a hollow capable of helping us-”

“And capture it.” His arm flexed, a show of his unwavering resolve. “We were sent to obtain a specimen for exploitation. Not parley. They are to be the tools of our retribution. Not our allies.” He lowered his blade, shifting it instead towards the hollow.

At this point the smirk fell from her lips, replaced by a more unamused look as Rēku responded. “So just because you are obsessed with being violent towards Hollows, every human and soul around here should more than likely be killed just because of that?” At this point she looked back at the Hollow. “Besides. He’s trying to be reasonable, why shouldn’t we? If he’s not here to harvest souls then we should at least give him the slightest of chances if it means getting home sooner.”

“Yeaaah, I gotta agree with Tatasuko-san on this one. A fight between any number of shinigami and hollows is inadvertently going to cause damage to our surroundings. Trust me though, I like a fight as much as the next gal, but if we fight here...human lives will be in danger, and I guarantee Taikou will be...unhappy with that report.” Kairi gave him a sort of awkward, but sympathetic smile, followed by a shrug.

“Despite our squabble beforehand, I agree with everything that Kairi said,” Shizu said, eyes directed at Kairi briefly. “We must avoid putting innocent humans in harm’s way. They are what’s most important.” Shizu said. Though she was opting for the peaceful course of action, her hand was firmly grabbing the hilt of her zanpakuto. Should the hollow want to attack, she would be ready for a swift draw.

“At least some of you are still Shinigami. Maybe you are even Junsei. Just not this one.” The Hollow said with a sinuous intonation, a rattling chuckle accompanying its words as it addressed Hiro.

Inwardly, the war still raged. His desire to slay the hollow weighing against his duty to protect. While he knew that the others were right, reluctance still riddled him. Keeping him from outwardly voicing it. Hence, he instead settled for a simple sigh. Allowing his face to regain its former demeanor as he simply stepped aside. Turning his back to the hollow before utilizing shunpo to return to his original position behind Rēku. At last consenting to the will of the others. With a crimson flash, he then reverted his zanpakuto.

With a small smile Rēku continued as if nothing had happened. “As I was saying it would be great if we could come to some sort of arrangement. You help us and we can leave you alone after that, or perhaps there is something that you want?” Rēku offered to some degree raising her arms slightly in a shrug.

“Want…” The Hollow stated flatly for a moment, but it was clearly considering. Several moments passed in silence before it responded. “Yes. This grave…” It turned back to the headstone it had been sitting at, kneeling before it. “Earth is unmoved. The chamber is whole. There is nothing here. Those degenerates refused to interr. Cremated the body…” The Hollow paused as it crossed its legs into a proper seated position. It turned its head back to Rēku, and for a moment there seemed to be a red glint in the depths of its eyes. “I killed them all...but I could not find the ashes. Monsters hid them...cannot find them. Stone here all I have left. All memory gone. Need ashes. Find the urn. Know it exists. Somewhere in city. Get urn. Get ashes. Give them to me...and I will do anything. Anything.”

There was an audible grunt from Hiro at this point.

Kairi watched as Masumata quite nearly attacked the young captain Tatasuko, her expression flat. Growing slightly irritated she turned her head slightly and spat out her gum. It had lost its flavor. She was also getting bored and sort of had to admit that this whole--help a hollow, get a hollow--bit was rather...odd. Of course, additionally she started thinking further. What would Taikou say? How would they make sure that the hollow didn’t just...leave once he had what he wanted? How would they make sure the hollow didn’t leave and come back with more hollows to attack the mansion.

She frowned. That last one was a problem. “Hmmm…” she made a thoughtful sound, even as Hiro shunpo’d back to his former position, the dispute apparently solved. “I’m all for having no casualties, as I said, but um...I’d like to note Hiro had a small point. How do we know you’re not just gonna leave or turn on us? What do you want with the urn?”

The Hollow looked briefly back to the headstone. After a moment it replied, faintly, with a furtive intonation of despair.

“I do not know.”

That said, she turned to Reku, “Hey, don’t you like...have some finders keepers kido or something?” She had no idea what the name of the spell was, and had really only recalled it because she’d seen Kenpachi’s group using it before their team had departed.

“Kakushitsujaku.” Hiro turned his gaze towards Kairi, nodding with approval. “And we cannot trust it.” He momentarily moved his gaze over the hollow before letting it settle instead on his fellow captain. “Sunafureku, you should take Shizukesa and determine the whereabouts of this urn.” His gaze once again moved towards the adjuchas as he paced in Kairi’s direction. He stopped upon briefly gesturing to her with his hand. “She and I will remain. To ensure our...ally, maintains his part of this proposal.” Hiro then sought to meet Reku’s gaze. “I will restrain myself, unless provoked.”

With a sigh Rēku started to kneel to the ground reaching into her haori and producing a small pouch. She dabbed a couple of fingers in it before sprinkling the black powder in a circle and then drawing some symbols. “If I were to go...” she started as she looked up at him. “I’d rather take Kairi, since she’s faster. However for a simple retrieval I don’t think we’ll need me to go with her, but if you insist.” Rēku placed her palms below her work of art as she looked back down. “Kakushitsuijaku.”

With that the circle began to glow a brilliant bright blue and numbers started to cycle about as they waited momentarily until finally a lovely set of numbers appeared. “Kairi, will you need my assistance?” Honestly if it was as simple as it sounded the obvious answer was no, the question was whether it was actually that simple.

She shrugged, “Naw, I need to get some more gum anyways. I’ll be back in…” she paused a moment, glancing at the coordinates and then closing her eyes briefly, “...maybe 5 minutes? 10 tops. Yeah, let’s go with that.” She winked and gave the lot of them a thumbs up before turning in the proper direction, bending her knees and then vanishing in a shunpo.

【Bleach: Souls Adrift】

Unbridled Potential

Team Masuuko
_{Part 1}

---

Hostile armies may face each other for years, striving for the victory which is decided in a single day. This being so, to remain in ignorance of the enemy's condition simply because one grudges the outlay of a hundred ounces of silver in honors and emoluments, is the height of inhumanity.

One who acts thus is no leader of men, no present help to his sovereign, no master of victory.

Following the Commander's Initial brief, the words echoed within his subconscious. Pushing Taikou's ensuing conversation with Hiroto into the background as he pondered the current situation. It was only after he had reaffirmed his resolve to retaliate against the enemy, that Hiro's mind refocused on the present. Thus, when the Sōtaichou addressed him by name, delegating to him partial command of one of the hunting squads, Hiro quickly responded with a salute. Having quickly touched his right fist over his heart horizontally, before bowing his head in agreement. After straightening himself into a proper posture, he then waited until after the Sōtaichou had departed. Then turned to address those he'd be working with. Pausing only to eavesdrop on the Kenpachi as he assumed command of his assigned party. A smirk glimpsed lips.

He then turned towards Sunōfurēku. "Well then. Shall we?"

Unlike her fellow ex-captain, Rēku did not have to pull herself away from her own thoughts to listen. At the same time she was nowhere near as outwardly enthusiastic. If the commander and many others didn't know any better they might have thought Rēku fell asleep standing. She stood motionless and with her eyes closed throughout the entirety of the short rally and only opened her eyes slightly when her partner was mentioned letting the tiniest of smiles touch her lips before fading back into a near blank expression. As the commander left she slightly turned herself towards Hiro who had just spoken as her eyes finally opened fully. and she spoke softly, but clearly. "Indeed. When we leave, Hiro could you please alert the enemy of our presence by releasing a massive amount of spiritual pressure to attract a stronger group." It was phrased less as a question and more as heavy suggestion that she expected him to do.

Upon hearing her voice, the shinigami once again performed a salute. Seeing the meaning behind her words. “But, of course.”His voice held a nigh-mocking tone.

As the stirring speech came to a close--and not a moment too soon, she thought--Kairi ceased the quiet, and impatient, tapping of her foot, and made her way over to Captain Masumata and Tatasuko. She was just a little peeved that she hadn't been put with the Kenpachi, but oh well she was sure the Commander had a good reason for putting them into groups the way he had. Walking over to the pair of captains, she reached down to her sash and pulled out a stick of gum, which she popped into her mouth and began chewing. She had a somewhat bored look on her face, though her eyebrows were raised, as if expectant. It was as if she was saying, “Why haven’t we left yet,”---wait no, that’s her actually talking. Um…. Oh well. After asking her question, she remained there silently blowing bubbles with her gum, one hand on her hip. She was ready to go kick some hollow’s ass into oblivion.

Among the others, Shizu wasn’t concerned when they would leave. She wasn’t concerned with what was stalling them. All she was focused on was what she had been focused on when the Captain-Commander was speaking: completing the mission. Everything else was white noise. However, she would be a lying lieutenant if she said she wasn’t curious about why they hadn’t left yet. “Usually I don’t share Kairi’s sentiments, but if we are going to have any chance of completing this mission to the Captain-Commander’s expectations, wouldn’t it be best make haste?”

Hiro shot both of them a disconcerting glance. Only to remind himself of his manners as he spoke. “And how pray tell do we find this hollow? Where should we go?” His silence invited an answer as he momentarily held his gaze between the two.

Blowing a bubble while Hiro practically glared at them, Kairi cracked a grin, glancing at Shizu as she did so. “Heh, well we could go that way,” she pointed in as if at a wall, though obviously intending the actual destination to be somewhere beyond. There was a long moment of silence, broken only by the bubble popping loudly.

She glanced again at Shizu, and gave her a thumbs up, “Seriously though c’mon, we’re wasting time. The others are gonna get the best one before we can get to killing even one hollow! I just can’t stand for that.”

Shizu exchanged a disapproving glance with Kairi. She didn’t appreciate the way she spoke to the captain. “We should not go in without a plan, Kairi. It would be a quicker way to death. Or are you simply that foolish? Based on the way you aggressively pop your gum, I would imagine so. I mean, how else would you describe yourself?” Shizu said, brandishing a somewhat satisfied, albeit partially-smug, grin.

A sigh. It was all he could muster as he inwardly found himself cursing commander Taikou’s choice. Thus, after breaking off his gaze, and quickly rubbing his temples, Hiro looked to Sunōfurēku. Hoping to confirm their decision to take their leave.

Kairi raised an eyebrow, her smile dropping somewhat as Shizu responded. “Careful you delicate flower,” she teased playfully, “...you might strain yourself trying to look down on someone taller than you.” She blew another bubble and then popped it, before chewing her gum for another long while. “Also, really relating my gum popping to my combat methodology? You’re seriously scraping the bottom of the barrel for insults huh?”

“Touch a nerve, did I?” Shizu mused, “I wonder, Kairi. Is the reason why you’re responding the way you are because I’m right or that you simply don’t know the difference between an insult and a simple observation. If true—” Shizu was interrupted by Reku, prompting her to close her mouth, and put any remaining thoughts about Kairi on the back-burner.

“If you two are finished bickering like children we can head out now. At least one of you is showing usefulness.” Rēku bluntly interrupted the lieutenants and after that turned and used a shunpo to leave abruptly to head in the direction that Kairi had pointed out. While the two had been bickering Rēku had decided to try and locate any potential bounties. This seemed to be one of the better options and it was nice to know at least the second division’s old lieutenant had at least some promise.

Having made use of the aforementioned argument to hone in on a nearby presence, it wasn’t long before Hiro also used shunpo to vanish, leaving the two lieutenants to quarrel as he chased after Rēku, whom appeared to be headed towards a cemetery in the middle of the town.

【Bleach: Souls Adrift】

【Masumata, Hiroshimoto - Battousai】

【Into the Fray /|\ Bankai /|\ Warrior's End】

_{~"Sharp thorns produce delicate roses."~}

My Hider

【Personal Info】

Hider

【Name: Hiroshimoto Masumata
【Nicknames: Battousai, Ejiki-Chan, Hiro
【Alias: Rein Tokiwa
【Age: 543
【Age Appearance: 27
【Gender: Male
【Race: Shinigami
【Former Rank: Captain
【Former Division: Seventh

【Additional Appearance Info:
Standing at six foot one and weighing in at a hundred and seventy three pounds, Hiro possesses a well defined musculature and an athletic built. His eyes which generally appear to be light brown, are tinted with a hue of red. The likes of which only shows when his irises are hit by moonlight or a light of similar spectral consistency. He has a tri-pronged vertical scar upon his left cheek running over his eye; received by "Blue" during the Battle of Milford Sound, moderate length brown hair, and ears that are slightly pointed at their tips. A second 'X' shaped scar also covers the entirety of both the front and rear of his upper torso. Masumata wears a custom captain's haori over his shihakusho. Said haori is high collared with red trimming, primarily white with a red interior, and extends in length to his shins. An ornate golden clasp sits before his chest, which keeps it fastened upon his frame. His shihakusho is comprised of the standard white shitagi, black kosode, and black hakama, albeit with purple sash tied about the waist of his hakama. Hiro wears a pair of black tabi socks beneath his white waraji sandals.

However, Hiro's most definitive feature is the truculent expression often worn upon his face. As it is said that he is capable of commanding complete obedience with a single steadfast gaze. Due to this, many of Seireitei's residents refer to this as 'the Akagan' or 'Eyes of Blight'. Thus fear they would die if met with it - although there is no evidence to suggest this to be true. Additionally, Hiro wears an small silver medallion which bears the symbol of the Masumata Clan upon it. It is kept hidden within a breast pocket beneath his clothing, and is a key to the Masumata Clan grounds.

【Biography:
Hiro's story begins at the end of his father's. Takeru Enoki. Warrior, Commander, Cannibal - Takeru was known throughout Sereitei as the 'Savior King' during his time amongst the living. A reference to the fact that he claimed to be 'saving' each person he killed, by consuming them. Either before or after said death. Having been born to a Rukongai working girl, Takeru had never met the man from whom his seed had grown. As a result of the life his mother led, Takeru inevitably grew to be a troubled child, excessively angry and frustrated with his accursed world. However, it was only after he and his mother had one day been attacked by several of her clients, that his anger at last turned to rage. As he was beaten and forced to watch as they raped then brutally murdered her. Although it remains unknown as to how he managed to survive the incident, for a time Takeru was believed to be dead.

When he finally did resurface in Rukongai, Takeru was in his late teens. As well as the leader of a local gang. The Akateko, named for their fondness of marking their territory by hanging the limbs of their victims from nearby ledges and trees. It was during this time that Takeru first resorted to cannibalism, as he hunted down and ate alive every man who had killed his mother. Publicly and grotesquely. Claiming that the scythe - as was his weapon of choice at the time- was too good for them. With his revenge exacted, Takeru then turned his eyes towards conquering the entirety of Rukongai. It was during his five-year rampage that he became the 'Savior King'. Rukongai's most notorious criminal at the time. Wanted for hundreds of thefts, murders, and rapes. The last two usually at once.

It was during Takeru's final act of said brutality that Hiro was conceived. His mother, a rookie Shinigami named Arisu Tokiwa, was cornered by the Akateko during a routine patrol in the seventy-third district of South Rukongai. While her unit was able to defeat most of the attacking gangsters, She soon found herself in a state of panic as Takeru single-handedly cut down what was left of her unit. However, it wasn't until he began to publicly defile her atop of their corpses, that she began to slip into insanity. Driven beyond her braking point as he simultaneously feasted on her flesh, and deflowered her while still covered in her comrades' blood. Her sister's blood. He had pushed her to the brink of death when it came to an abrupt end. Arisu could only watch in shock as a Zanpakuto severed Takeru's head. Causing the man to collapse onto her frame.

Despite being a third seat of Rokubantai, the Sixth Division, Genjeiru Masumata had vomited. Disgusted by the sight he faced after he had saved Arisu. The sight of her laying, mutilated and broken, having been engraved within his mind. Scarring it for life whilst instilling within him a sadness for her that would forever change his life. It was this feeling of pity that moved him to volunteer to be her caregiver in the time following her 'attack'. It wasn't until she had physically recovered that they became aware of her pregnancy. After it was already far to late.

As a noble, and head of his clan, Genjeiru faced a magnitude of ridicule for his decision to care for the young shinigami. Particularly from his wife. Whose envy grew in intensity with each passing day. Her concern that he would chose his pregnant, fragile, concubine, over his sterile wife, nigh driving her to insanity. So much so, that she eventually began to poison the medication Arisu regularly required. Preventing her body and mind alike to ever recover from the trauma they had endured. Even so, Kiri could not keep her husband from falling in love with his broken damsel. Thus, in time she conceded to the will his heart, albeit without ceasing to poison his new mate. However, it would be the birth of her grotesquely conceived child that would cause the clan be split into two.

Weakened and still mentally unstable, Arisu was never expected to be able to successfully give birth. Still, despite the odds, the young shinigami managed to do so. At the expense at her life. Her final act being to write the desired name of her newborn child, whom she named Rein Tokiwa. Incidentally, it was now that those opposed to nurturing her offspring made their first move. Attempting to put the child to death with its mother, considering who the father was. In order to prevent this and appease the Clan elders, Genjeiru bargained to change to child's name and raise him as his own in order to secure is own heir to the Clan. After much debate and many promises on Genjeiru's part, he was permitted to keep the child of the woman whom he had come to love.

Having nearly become an orphan following his mother's death, Hiro was officially adopted into the Masumata family at age three. Thus, as Hiro Masumata, grew up in the Masumata mansion in Seireitei. Despite the hatred veered towards him by many members of the clan, being the only child of Kiri and Genjeiru Masumata, Hiro's youth was consumed by countless hours of training. An attempt by Genjeiru to prepare his son for the day he would become the head of the Clan. As a result, Hiro was home schooled and never attended the Shino academy.

In youth there was only ever two people in the clan whom Hiro could whole-heartedly trust, excluding his adoptive father. His cousins, Kyohei Masumata, and Shizuka Tsukikage. While this trust, by affiliation, extended to Myoubu Ichimonji - Kyohei's childhood sweetheart- as well, continual hiccups in the relationship of the two had kept Hiro at bay. Despite this, the four eventually grew to be nearly inseparable with time. So much so that they would even train together. Something which benefited Hiro greatly considering that Myoubu was the lieutenant of the Fifth Division. It would be this training that would save his life.

Hiro got his first taste of real battle approximately four-hundred years ago. A small group of traitorous clan members attempted to assassinate the his family. Although he and Kyohei were able to fend off and even kill a few of the attackers, it was his adoptive father who ultimately drove them back. Albeit at the expense of his life. Leaving a widowed Kiri in command of the small yet wealthy clan. However, it was soon revealed by Myoubu that Kiri had been the architect behind the attack. As the former had overheard Kiri planning a second assault in order to assassinate Hiro once and for all. However, when Myoubu approached Kyohei with the matter, and the couple approached Kiri, she ruthlessly slaughtered Myoubu. At which point she was killed by Kyohei. He then told the others that Myoubu and himself had struck first, and had been stopped by Hiro. While this restored the clan's faith in Hiro as heir, Kyohei was executed. Leaving the fate of the Masumata Clan in young Hiro's hands.

It was would be shortly after this, that Hiro would finally fall in love. Having been approached by Heideiki Kawagana with a proposal to unify their two clans, Hiro had become his daughter's betrothed. However, tragedy struck when circumstances led to the death of both Heideiki and his only son. Leaving Arina standing as the heir to the Kawagana Clan. Sympathizing, Hiro agreed to take things slow. Thus, spent the next century devoting himself strictly to her. Eventually falling in love with her. However, the two would enevitably seperate. Causing Hiro to experience his first heartbreak. Still, because she had done so in order to keep her clan from being absorbed, as far as he knew, Hiro never held it against her. Only regretting that things never quite worked out.

Approx. Two-hundred and sixty-five years ago, Hiro then fell in love with a shinigami by the name of Ai Tashimoto, who was a commoner from Rukongai. Five years later, when she had graduated from the Shino Academy, Hiro proposed to Ai. Whom agreed to marry him. Incidentally, fate was not so kind. For the shingami was shortly after killed by an Adjuchas level hollow during her first deployment. Naturally, Hiro soon fell into a bout of depression - which manifested in the form of a quickened temper. Noticing his distress, Shizuka began to devote all of her attention to appeasing Hiro's rage. Worried that, if left unchecked, he would one day be consumed by it, she had even gone as far as to transfer into his division. However, it was only after Hiro had nearly cut down a subordinate whom had spoken ill of the recently deceased, that the duo subsequently vanished for some time.

Believing Hiro to have kidnapped Shizuka, Nagai, Shizuka's brother, convinced her father Junta to take immediate action to prevent 'further tainting of the Masumata bloodline'. However, lacking sufficient proof of his crime, the two were unable to obtain the aid of the Gotei Thirteen. As a result, they instead turned to outside forces. Enlisting Akateko mercenaries to kill Hiro, and 'rescue' Shizuka. Thus, it was upon Hiro's return that things went awry. Although the thugs attacked Hiro as previously ordered, they also sought to 'have their way' with Shizuka. Only to report that she had been killed by Hiro once they returned. Now returned to his normal state of mind, and stronger than before due to the nature of his absence, Hiro quickly managed to defeat the goons. Intent on returning to the manor to confront his uncle about his betrayal.

While Hiro had intended to merely turn his uncle over to the Central Fourty-Six, that all changed once they arrived. Upon realizing that Nagai had played such a pivotal role in what had occurred, Shizuka flew into a rage and lashed out. Initiating a duel between herself and Nagai as Hiro kept Junta restrained. It was during this duel that Shizuka at last revealed that she possessed feelings for Hiro, and had since they were children. Proclaiming that she would forever be at his side, regardless of what form that may take. As shocked by this as the others, despite of spent so much time with her as of late, Hiro allowed Junta to slip from his grasp. A mistake which the man sought to capitalize on by attempting to impale Hiro. Which he would have done had Shizuka not utilized Shunpo to move between them and take the blow instead. Enraged by the sight of her bleeding frame, Hiro sought to strike down Junta. However, his hand was stayed as Nagai swiftly decapitated his father before collapsing in grief. Stating that he loved his sister and had only ever wanted to see Hiro dead. It was only Shizuka's weakened plea for her brother's life that kept Hiro from seeking his head.

Having taken Shizuka to seek treatment at the fourth division's barracks, Hiro was then brought before the Central Fourty-Six to answer for both his disappearance and the incident following his return. There he explained how he had accompanied Shizuka to the world of the living, where they had spent the twelve days training their minds. Primarily as a remedy for his depression. As well as what had happened on their return. Eventually it was ultimately decided that while both Shizuka and Hiro would be pardoned, Nagai would be exiled to the world of the living.

It was also here that it was decided that Hiro would be named a Lieutenant of Nanabantai, the Seventh Division.

It wasn't until fifty years ago, that Hiro earned the true respect of the soul society and ascended to the rank of Captain. As it was then that Hiro alongside Shizuka and a Captain, fought to protect the human world from a sudden onslaught of hollow attacks. Though it was unknown as to why they attacked, it was the unveiling of Hiro's bankai that led to their defeat. Thus, it wasn't until after said battle that he acquired his namesake and was bestowed the Moniker "Battousai". A title honoring his mastery of swordplay.

During 'the Battle of Milford Sound' nearly the entirety of both the Fifth and Seventh Divisions were sent to Milford Sound New Zealand to combat a sudden wave of hollows emerging there. Led by the twin Vasto Lordes 'Red' and 'Blue', the legion managed to obliterate most of the combined shinigami forces, with the survivors numbering under fifty. It was at the side of his current captain, Shizuka Tsukikage, that Hiro attended the battle. Guiding the shinigami under his command, while Shizuka - as acting-captain - and the other captain engaged the Vasto Lordes. While the Shinigami were able to hold their own for the most part, things quickly went south when the captains begun to be overpowered and their opponents turned on the lesser shinigami. It was at this point that Hiro, utilizing the abilities of his bankai, was able to turn the tide. Together, he and the others were able to weaken the twin hollows enough for Shizuka to deliver the finishing blow. However, in order to kill the hollows, Shizuka needlessly sacrificed the lives of nearly two hundred humans in the vicinity of the battle. Subsequently resulting in her being indefinitely exiled to the Human World.

Since becoming a Captain, Hiro begun spend endless hours training with members of both of the second and eleventh divisions. Intent on using elements of both division's teachings to reinforce and redesign the training regime of the seventh division. To further this agenda, Hiro also went on to have his division host an annual Hakuda tournament as a way of both gauging and improving the skills of the Gotei thirteen as a collective whole.

However, this would only prove to be the beginning of his Journey. For then came the fall.

It was five years ago. No one expect them to come. No one expect them to strike. And in one day, the Old Gotei lost it all.

For Hiro, the battle was fierce, and beyond anything he had ever encountered. In an instant, he went from reading reports to fighting for his life. Yet, he would not go quietly. Going so far as to destroy the entirety of the seventh division's barracks, as well as a large swath of surrounding land in the process. However, his attempt to hold his ground went awry once a second assailant spontaneously joined the fray. Especially since they had begun to decimate his squad members by the dozens. Thus, in one final effort, Hiro moved to intervene. And subsequently paid the price. Soon finding himself between a deadly pincer attack. One which crushed both his higher and lower cervical nerves. Leaving him in a quadriplegic state.

Fear, anger, regret, pain. They filled his being as he steeled himself, awaiting the final plunge of their blades. But then there was hate. Intense, burning hate. And all he knew had faded to black.

While Hiro survived, and his body recovered. He never forgot the pain. Never appeased his rage. Never lived down the shame. And so for five years, indirectly, he trained. Leading mission after mission. Killing one hollow after the next. He pushed. Both himself and his men. Pushed until only the strong remained. Until the day came. When Commander Yamagi announced he planned to retake the Seireitei. Masumata inwardly rejoiced, but having driven his men so hard. Very few remained. Thus, a decision was reached between he and Kenpachi Sannouske to merge their troops. All of Hiro's men would follow the Kenpachi's lead. While only his Lieutenant and a select few would accompany him along the way.

【Personality:
Outwardly, Hiro is polite, soft-spoken and intellectual. Often addressing his subordinates by their given names. He rarely shows any sign of alarm or distress, and often has entire situations planned out well in advance. Due to his upbringing, he is also highly disciplined. Thus, is capable of taking and executing orders without hesitation. However, he is always first to question an order if he believes it to be flawed. While he initially appears to be a very kind and passive individual, Hiro is known to be overly protective. Hence is easily angered when someone/something he admittedly cares for is at risk.

Despite the fact that Hiro rarely shows it, he can at times be an outgoing and fun loving individual. When exemplifying this, Masumata possesses an actively creative sense of humor and is known to be flirtatious around women. This however, ties into the fact that he is a self proclaimed gentleman. Thus goes out of his way to ensure he always behaves in a respectable manor when dealing with, or around females. Provided he deems them respectable.

It should also be noted that although generally discreet about it, Hiro possesses a strong degree of hate towards Hollows and Hollow-kind. This hate is especially strong when dealing with Arrancar. Although it is publicly unknown exactly why he developed such a hate for them, said hate is so vivid that he will often engage any being in possession of hollow-esque reiatsu immediately and without reservation. Still, this is not his greatest flaw. Although usually nigh impossible to provoke; with exception to the above, when truly enraged, Hiro seems to lose most of his semblance of self. As a result, he oft mirrors an living embodiment of violence. Therefore, when in this state, Hiro will often attack anyone, or thing, that gets between him and the object of his rage with little regard for his own well being. It is believed that this splinter personality was not always present; only taking form following Hiro's 'disappearance'.

【Notable Traits】

Hider

【Likes/Dislikes】

✔ Playing the Flute
✔ Poetry
✔ Martial Combat
✔ Intellectual Debate

✘ Laziness
✘ Dishonorable Acts/Individuals
✘ Spiders
✘ Sake
✘ Hypocrites
✘ Hollows

【Defining Traits】

Positive

▲ Intelligent
▲ Honorable
▲ Observant
▲ Adaptable
▲ Sympathetic

Neutral

☯ Skeptical
☯ Unpredictable
☯ Efficient
☯ Analytical
☯ Reserved

Negative

▼ Critical
▼ Possessive
▼ Secretive
▼ Proud
▼ Willful

【Relationships】

Hider

Shizuka Tsukikage: Friend/Ex-Lover

As Adoptive cousins, Shizuka and Hiro have known each other since their early childhood. Although Shizuka's feelings for Hiro first developed during their adolescents, they were not made public until later in their careers as Shinigami. Although the two never officially committed to an exclusive relationship, they did once share an intimate night. Thus, both become openly jealous at the possibility of another entering the other's life. It should be noted that while Shizuka admires Hiro for his ideals and devotion to them, Hiro's true feelings are quite unclear. He has avoided her company ever since their time of intimacy.

Kenpachi Sannouske: Rival/Friend

While the two have been apart of the Gotei for sometime, it was only after the fall that the two actually bonded. Although they often appear hostile and at one another's throats, both have learned to respect the other. Having formed a bond of brotherhood through combat. While Hiro would never openly admit it, he considers the Kenpachi to be a personal friend, thus would lay is life on the line for him should he ever feel it necessary. Despite that, Hiro still secretly resents Sannouske for his relationship with Arina Kawagana.

Sunōfurēku Tatasuko: Friend

Having frequently worked with Sunofurēko, or Rēku as he has taken to calling her. Hiro has come to deeply respect her. Both as an individual and a shinigami. Although, he is usually tight-lipped about his feelings and impossible to read, her uncanny ability to always understand his hidden feelings is the seed which blossomed into their friendship. Although many among the shinigami often attempt to tease Hiro, questioning the nature of their relationship. He views Sunofurēku as a little sister. Thus, is aptly protective of her. So much that the two tend to bicker whenever Hiro feels she is putting herself at risk.

Arina Kawagana: Friend/Ex-Lover

Arina has taken a strange liking to Hiro over the years. She flirts with him at every chance she can get, and has definitely caused some strange shenanigans for him over the years. Her father once tried to pair them up in an arranged marriage - but when he died and Arina took over as head of the clan, she withdrew the offer. A bit to Hiro's dismay. As the two spent over a century together, she was his first love. He is now unsure of how he feels. Yet knows he feels something for her.

【Equipment】

Hider

Sekkachi Haori:

Although it is a well guarded secret - known only to a select few -, Masumata's Captain Haori is Woven from a material derived from Sekkiseki. As such, its true value is not that of a mere badge of office, but as a training tool. The haori operates by repelling reiryoku - acting as an instrument used to suppress the wearer’s manipulation of reiatsu. Due to this, anyone who wears it will find that they themselves are suppressed. More accurately, that the reiryoku that within their being is suppressed. Causing it to act as a spiritual weight upon them. This can be fatal to anyone in possession of less than lieutenant-level reiryoku. Due to its role as a literal anchor upon their inherent. Once it is removed, Masumata appears to undergo a noticeably significant increase in power. Momentarily exerting his reiatsu at maximum until he willingly reigns it in. However, in truth, he simply gains access to the sealed half of his reiryoku pool. Prior to removal, Hiro's reiatsu is lieutenant leveled at best.

【Capabilities】

Hider

【General Aptitude】

Hider

Fighting Style:

Hiro's preferred method of combat is the Masumata Clan Zanjutsu centered style Known as Warutsu. Warutsu, also known as the Extirpating waltz, is a combative form that simultaneously utilizes elements of hakuda, and hoho to improve the effectiveness of one's zanjutsu. It forces the practitioner to view their zanpakuto as an extension of their physical being as well as spiritual one. Both by encouraging movements that wouldn't normally be applied while using zanjutsu, as well as movements that are frequently used, in order to keep the opponent on their toes.

Unlike traditional styles, Warutsu also uses Hakuda as a means of reinforcing and empowering each of the weapon's movements. Much in the same way it uses Hoho to increase the speed at which the practitioner is capable of acting and reacting. Both with and without a weapon. Due to this, the practitioner is capable of utilizing an unorthodox and wildly unpredictable style to maximize damage while simultaneously minimizing potential risks. Warutsu also allows Hiro to switch between traditional and non-traditional styles on the fly. Allowing him to be widely versatile.

A feat which serves as the basis for Hiro's true combat strategy. To subdue the enemy without fighting. Thus, he will never fight in the same manner twice. Making use of his analytical and observational skills in order to study and access his enemies prior to formulating an action plan on the fly. Making his deadliest weapon his mind. Hiro believes that in combat, to re-frame from using all advantages afforded to one my the enemy, is to show disrespect to that enemy. Thus, prides himself in completely destroying an opponent once he is able to understand them. Making full use of everything from his surroundings to aid in his fight. Including allies.

Stances/Forms

Ni-tōbun (Precision Form):


By utilizing extremely precise movements during this form, a Warutsu practitioner is capable of maximizing their Zanpakuto's cutting ability. Allowing them to perform feats usually physically impossible with unaided zanjutsu strikes. While this requires the user to be impossibly precise when swinging their blade(s), it can - in theory - allow one to cut any substance not willfully reinforced with reiatsu. Above, a Ni-tōbun user can be seen using the form to surprise his foe.

Tekkō Taifū (Steel Hurricane):


By using the same methodology applied when using Hoho, a Warutsu practitioner is capable of striking at blinding speeds. Allowing them to easily out pace the movements of their opponent's weaponry. It should however be noted that this form is designed to accelerate each subsequent strike in succession. Thus, each strike performed without first adopting the neutral 'Arashinome' stance, is faster than the last. If one is reckless, and fails to mitigate the amount of force used during each successive strike, it is possible to exceed one's limits and loose control of their weapon(s). Failure to maintain control can result in dislocation of bodily limbs. Above, two Tekkō Taifū practitioners practice the form.

Atsuen taneuma (Rolling Stallion):


While its movements focus more on the use of the legs, Atsuen taneuma is one of the most demanding forms of Warutsu. Requiring the incorporation of Hakuda, High Mobility and Zanjutsu simultaneously. It allows a capable practitioner to utilize highly nimble movements, enabling the flawless use of feet in zanjutsu combat. However, in order to use this form effectively, one must be able to enhance the movement of their limbs through Hoho. Whilst also enhancing their Zanjutsu with the same. As it requires one to frequently use an arm to substitute the movements of the legs. Above, a practitioner uses the Atsuen taneuma form to turn the tide of a fight.

Migurushī kani (Sightless Crab):


One of the primary defensive forms of Warutsu, the Migurushī kani allows the practitioner to adapt a planted position which enables them to seamlessly defend their entire body without leaving an opening. Though it temporarily limits physical movement, it is the base, and most adaptive form of Warutsu. Allowing for easy transitions into of the other forms. However, it requires that an individual possesses advanced sensory abilities. As it utilizes a form of seeing known to the Masumata's as the 'Akagan'. Above, an individual demonstrates this form by repeatedly defending with his back to a foe.

Mugen Ashiato (Infinite Steps):


Always used in conjunction with Hoho. This form allows the practitioner to finely amplify their inherent physical speed, done by repeatedly utilizing Hoho on selective body parts mid shunpo. This allows a Warutsu expert to make multiple passing strikes at various opponents without detriment to his current rate of speed. It should be noted that this is a moving form. Thus, each of its stances first require that the user possess a certain expertise in Hoho. As all of its movements must be done during the span of a single shunpo. Failure to do so would result in the hyper extension, and possible dislocation of limbs. Due to the sheer amount of stress placed on the joints if the limbs were to suddenly reach their peak velocities. This stress is lessened when the body is in high speed motion, as the limbs would not be accelerating from a zero state. Above, a practitioner can be seen demonstrating the form, as he would be perceived by another shinigami, capable of tracking his movements.

Sakushi Battoujutsu (Illusionary Art of Sword Drawing):


A purely offensive form. Sakushi Battoujutsu is the reason behind Hiro's namesake. This form focuses all of the user's available reiatsu into the amplification their entire physical being. Effectively rendering them unable to use it for anything else during the time in which they maintain use of this form. Adopting the base stance, the user then unsheathes their blade, and proceeds to attack a single specified target. It should be noted that this form combines the Tekkō Taifū and Mugen Ashiato forms. Thus requires both to first be mastered. Through Sakushi Battoujutsu, a user of Warutsu is capable of continually striking at an opponent so swiftly that they appear to be doing so from all sides. Leaving numerous afterimages of themselves from the perceptive of those looking on. However, a practitioner cannot defend - or cease the attack - until they once again sheath their sword. Otherwise they risk the enduring the same penalties as Tekkō Taifū and Mugen Ashiato. Above, a master of Warutsu uses this form to slay a Hollow.

Hageshī Kōshin (Airstep March):


A form unique to Hiro. By utilizing his bankai's ability, Hiro adapts an aerial fighting style. While the form itself is simple, it can also be devastating. Designed as a ranged from of crowd control, the Hageshī Kōshin form utilizes Shunpo to continuously move between a myriad of weapons created by Kagirinai. Which Hiro can freely use. Primarily, Hageshī Kōshin is used to rapidly generate and launch these weapons at his foes, with the intention of impaling them. It adheres to all the limitations of his bankai and Hoho capabilities. Thus, is his preferred style of combat when in bankai.

Vast Reiryoku(4/4): Hiro has been noted to possess a considerably enormous amount of inherent spiritual power, which through practice, he is capable of finely controlling. While it remains naught but speculation - it was once widely accepted that if Hiro was somehow able to increase his reiryoku - he could rival even the Captain Commander in terms of raw power. This view is not shared by Hiro. Despite the fact that he is capable of continuously drawing on said power - in excess - for an impressively long time. Even by the standards of a captain level shinigami.

Legendary Reiatsu(5/4): In addition to possessing a notably above average degree of reiryoku for some one of his rank, Hiro's reiryoku, when exerted, is extremely concentrated. As a result, his reiatsu levels leagues above that of the average captain's. Hence, while those whom possess an exceptional level of reiatsu themselves are often spared its effects, most shinigami of lower caliber are susceptible to his reiatsu's side effects. Which situationally include, paralyzation, fear induction, and phantom pain affliction. However, the severity of these conditions can vary depending on the individual affected, as well as in accordance to the size of the gap in power between Hiro and themselves.

Incredible Alignment:(4/4): "Without reflection, we go blindly on our way, creating more unintended consequences, and failing to achieve anything useful." These words were the basis behind every training regime, Hiro has ever endeavored to compete. Through his own drive for self-improvement, Hiro has spent more time analyzing himself than any other topic. Dissecting every failure for cause, every mistake for reason, every action for justification. This became even more prevalent following the fall of the Old Gotei. So much so, that Kagirinai often teases that he only visits her so he can stare at her. As her advice is often a redundancy of Hiro's thoughts.

Zanjutsu Grandmaster(4/4): Like most members of the Masumata Clan, Hiro specializes in swordsmanship. Trained since he could walk in the art of Zanjutsu, Hiro's talent with a sword is one of exceedingly rare quality. Despite his relatively young age, Hiro is capable of effectively fighting ambidextrously with anything which even remotely resembles a sword. Both when dual and single wielding. While he does not yet consider himself to be at his peak, there are currently very few known individuals whose skill with a blade equals, or surpasses his own. Most notable among the few being Jinzo Kurogama and the current Captain Commander, Taikou Yanagi.

Impressive Offense(3/4): Though his use of Warutsu, Hiro has the capability to perform a myriad of offensive strikes. The likes of which range from varying schools of sword technique. As of current, his offensive capabilities are limited only by his physical strength and personal combative preferences. As he has frequently gone out of his way to expand his knowledge of the art. Thus is knowledgeable in all recorded forms of swordsmanship. However, following bankai, Hiro's offensive capabilities are potentially immeasurable. Due solely to the scope of his zanpakuto's abilities.

Impressive Defense(3/4): Though his use of Warutsu, Hiro has the capability to perform a myriad of defensive stances. The likes of which range from varying schools of sword technique. As of current, his defensive capabilities are limited only by his physical strength and personal combative preferences. As he has frequently gone out of his way to expand his knowledge of the art. Thus is knowledgeable in all recorded forms of swordsmanship. However, following bankai, Hiro's defensive capabilities are immeasurable. Due solely to the scope of his zanpakuto's abilities.

Incredible Resonance(4/4):"Together we can face any challenges. As deep as the ocean, as wide as the sky." As the first words ever uttered to Hiro by Kagirinai. Their bond has always been one of notable strength. One which only strengthened with ever hardship Hiro endured. For through it all, the only constant was always Kagirinai. Whom has repeatedly offered both console and support whenever he seemed uneasy. Likewise, Kagirinai has repeatedly found reassurance in Hiro's conviction and rigidity. Proving that their synergy has only improved.

Hakuda Master(3/4): Due to the nature of his training growing up, as well as personal efforts on his part, Hiro's skill in Hakuda in noted to be formidable. So much so that he has become proficient in several styles of martial arts. What makes him truly dangerous however, is his remarkable perceptive abilities. Which allow him to easily predict and anticipate enemy movements and counter accordingly. He is such a technical fighter that he has been capable of besting fighters far more experienced than himself with moderate effort.

Average Offense(2/4): Technique. This is the core of Hiro's offensive prowess. While his arms are capable of delivering devastating blows, due to the musculature developed through his use of zanjutsu. Hiro's strikes are at an about average level for that of a seasoned hakuda combatant. However, because Hiro has focused on perfecting the technique of every strike he knows, he is capable it amplifying the damage he can deal. Simply by utilizing proper footwork and motion structure. Allowing him to deliver deceptively hard blows.

Average Defense(2/4): Between his perceptiveness, and knowledge of the combative arts, Hiro is an averagely defensive fighter. Relying mostly on accurate predictions of enemy movements into order to counter and/or evade. However, it should be noted that due his skill in Hoho, Hiro will often use shunpo to out maneuver his opponents. Executing acrobatic feats which make it difficult for his foes to strike or grapple him.

Average Physical Strength(2/4): While he isn't physically stronger than an active shinigami of his size and build, his intimacy with hand to hand combat makes him an difficult foe in a brawl. Skilled in many forms of martial arts, Hiro is a very well rounded fighter whom is just as capable of dishing damage out, as he is of withstanding it.

Untrained Kidō(0/4): Hiro is incapable of casting even the simplest of kido spells. While this is due mostly to a general lack of interest in the aforementioned, thus is, in theory, remediable. Hiro currently shows no interest in doing so.

Poor Kido Power(0/4): No Kido. No Kido Power. Enough Said.

Incredible Perception(4/4): Hiro has always possessed the inherent ability to adapt to and learn things fairly quickly. Thus, has never struggled to understand a new or unfamiliar phenomenon. Because it is also in his nature to think analytically, Hiro has proven himself capable of effectively dissecting and evaluating situations with minimal effort. A trait which he best exemplifies during combat. Additionally, Hiro has taken it upon himself to be as well informed about the world as is feasibly possible. Hence can often appear to be a 'wise ass' when it comes to general facts about most things. However, his area of mental expertise is in what he calls 'battle strategics'. Which involves knowing specific information about possible combative inquiries. Involving things such as weaponry, combative shinigami and hollow techniques, the combative abilities of both shinigami and hollows, various locations within the Soul Society, and Human World, as well as the capabilities of his fellow captains, and the relationships between them.

All this is held together by his phenomenal sensory abilities. When concentrating in the midst of battle, Hiro's ability to sense reishi is so proficient that he possesses a sort of mind's eye. Causing him to subconsciously cease seeing with his eyes during intense combat. Allowing him to sense strong sources of reiatsu from a few kilometers away. Additionally, within the Soul Society, Hiro can sense people who are masterfully capable of masking their spiritual presence by sensing areas devoid of reishi. However, in the World of the Living - or any location that is not full of spiritual particles - this type of sensory becomes unreliably clouded.

Hohō Grandmaster(4/4): Hiro has long been noted as being one of the Soul Society's most proficient Hoho users. While he is not the fastest by far in his normal state. He is capable of easily out pacing the average high caliber shinigami. More notably though, is his high level of inherent flexibility, maneuverability and reflexes. As he has been seen executing physical maneuvers which most shinigami would struggle to perform with relative ease. Under the effects of his bankai, Hiro's speed is sufficient enough to allow him to contend with the fastest of shinigami.

Incredible Mobility(4/4): To many, Masumata's degree of flexibility is out right disgusting. As nimble as an olympic level athlete, Hiro body boasts general hyper-mobility. Giving most of his joints the appearance of 'double jointedness'. This makes him impossibly difficult to grapple as well of strike with traditional motions. He is capable of performing acrobatic feats most people would consider to be impossible. Although this is done via practice, and is a subsequent result of his martial training.

Average Resiliance(2/4): While he isn't physically stronger than any active captain-class shinigami of his size and build , Hiro's strong will has often led him to be perceived as tougher than he actually is. As his blatantly stubborn to surrender to adversity is frequently a driving factor in his will to continue on. Despite the situation or odds. Yet, this iron clad resolve should not be mistaken for an exceptional degree of mental fortitude. As his psyche already bears scars from his past.

Shorthand

Reir: 4
Rei: 5
Align: 4
Zan: 4
Off: 3
Def: 3
Reso: 4
Hak: 3
Off: 2
Def: 2
Phy: 2
Kid: 0
KP: 0
Per: 5
Hoh: 4
Mob: 4
Resil: 2

Total T(0): 15.
Total S(0): 8+6+6+6(26) +10(36)

【Specialization】

Hider

Ken’atsu (Sword Pressure): Zanjutsu Physical Strength(2+), Zanjutsu(3+), Reiatsu(3+)

By utilizing surgical precision when manipulating his reiatsu, Hiro momentarily redistributes all of his exerted reiatsu along the musculature of his arms. Having enhanced his strength via this method, he then proceeds to initiate a downward dual handed strike. Subsequently releasing a large concussive burst of air pressure. Said burst is capable of inflicting significant lacerative damage. Although it appears as a faint cresent-shaped ripple of air, the exceptional power behind it enables it to carve through most forms of organic matter.

【Zanpakuto】

Sealed State

_{~"In the midst of movement and chaos, keep stillness inside of you."~}

Additional Description: In it's sealed state, Kagirinai appears as an silver wedding band embedded with rubies and diamonds. A form which mimics the wedding band Hiro was to receive from Ai.

Inner World & Spirit:

Hiro's Inner world is his mental depiction of the end of the universe, or it's heat death. It consists only of the last star in the Universe, which he refers to as the Cold Star, sitting on the edge of a Time dilating Vortex that prevents the Universe from actually ending. It represents the constant inner struggle within Hiro. Who is frequently torn between his desire to protect those he loves and destroy those he hates. According to Kagirinai, his reluctance to forget Ai is also reflected in this depiction as well. Albeit as an autumn forest landscape. Composed of Sakura trees, with a single beaten path through its center.


Kagirinai itself often appears as a five-foot tall humanoid female with a slender physique and long red hair. Her face boasts soft, adorable features and lips always lined with smirk or smile. Kagirinai wears a seductively form-fitting attire with black and white coloration, and possesses palely fair skin. Kagirinai's eyes have cat-like pupils and are an orange color with white sclerae in this form. Alternatively, when Hiro is in bankai, Kagirinai appears as a humanoid entity comprised of a blood red fluid - this is her true form. Within this form, her physique appears masculine and her height is increased to an menacing seven feet. A sinister fanged grin also makes up the entirety of her jawline, with her eyes becoming a pair of solid white swaths. Each respectively stretching from the bridge of the nose to temple of the head.

Zanpakuto Personality: Sarcastic and wittily sharp tongued, Kagirinai is in many aspects very childlike. Usually maintaining an unnecessarily energetic and carefree demeanor. Yet, despite her cheerfulness Kagirinai can also be intimidating once annoyed. Often being quick to violence if criticized or insulted. It should however also be noted that, in lieu of her behavior, Kagirinai possesses a sage like degree of maturity. Although she is fully aware of the rarity of her own combative prowess, even among zanpakuto, Kagirinai also treats everyone with a degree of respect, even her enemies. Thus, will in rare moments, conduct herself in an intelligent and aristocratic manner. It is believed that her narcissistic behavior merely acts as a mask for her thoughtful and caring nature. Most frequently exemplified by her motherly demeanor when in combat with Hiro.

Visuals

Outer Layer

Inner Depth

Human Form

True Form

Shikai

_{~"Shimmer and reveal, come forth and alter. Lend me your aid. Kagirinai."~}

Ability: Kagirinai has the ability to absorb reiatsu and convert it into physical matter. Including living organisms. Although these constructs take on the likeness of various objects, because they are made entirely of reiryoku, they operate as many kido spells do. Thus are highly resistant to most physical confrontations, yet susceptible to reiatsu based attacks and interruptions. It should also be noted that while Hiro prefers to create plants, Kagirinai's ability is not limited in what objects it can create. This fact is only known to those whom have witnessed Hiro fight to his limits, and is disregarded as rumor when officially questioned.

Techniques

Hider

Kyuujin (Absorption): Kagirinai allows Hiro to metabolize reiatsu. Allowing him to consume reiatsu and use it to heal himself in a process similar to photosynthesis. The rate at which he heals is determined by both the severity of the wound as well as the available amount of external reiatsu. As Hiro is not able to absorb any reiatsu produced by himself or another's zanpakuto. It should also be noted that the proficiency of this ability is greatly decreased when he is exposed to substantial quantities of hollow reiatsu. As well as nullified when no external reiatsu source is present. That is ti say, when he is completely and utterly isolated from anything which independently exerts reiatsu. However, all wounds healed via this method are only repaired temporarily. Thus, will revert to their previous state once Hiro ceases to actively sustain the effect. If said wounds are mortal, he will succumb to them at that time. Although he has learned to maintain this effect subconsciously, doing so still subtracts from his perception of the battle. Even if only minutely.

Bankai

_{~"Bankai... Kigirinai Suenagaku."~}

Ability: Following activation Hiro's body merges with that of the manifested Kagiriani's and he loses the ability to use all of his shikai techniques. Inversely gaining a large boost in physical strength, speed and durability. Multiplying them Sevenfold. Essentially, his bankai's core release acts as an vitality buffer. Upon activation all non-severe previously obtained wounds are healed. This is an one off effect. Due to his body and zanpakuto becoming one, Hiro also gains Kagirinai's ability to convert reiatsu into matter. However is now capable of doing so by utilizing his own reiatsu as a source.

Due to this, Hiro is permitted the same degree of control over said conversion abilities. So much so that his prowess nearly rivals that of Kagirinai. This allows him to alter his own body, at the microscopic level. Altough doing so is dangerous, taxing and potentially permanent, this allows him to utilize Kagirinai's abilities more thoroughly when creating matter. Allowing him to create far more complex objects.

Techniques

Hider

Shingai (Gods Armor): Initiated upon activation of bankai. Once resolved, Kagirinai temporarily physically bonds itself with Hiro. Whom becomes physically morphed during this state, granting crimson wing-like appendages of reiatsu upon his behind his shoulders. The likes of which are connected to a pair of red metal pauldrons he now boasts over his attire. In addition, his body is encompassed by an crimson and luminescent aura. During this state, Hiro's dermal tissue is continually augmented by converting the reiatsu surrounding him into additional layers of thick skin. This skin is made to simulate the hardness of a zanpakuto, thus can parry adeptly powerful strikes without ill effect. While this makes him almost impervious to physical attacks, he is still susceptible to powerful penetrating and/or energy based attacks. As well as attacks possessing an incalculable amount of driving force. It should be noted that areas not naturally covered by skin remain points of vulnerability.

Mugen Renzoku (Infinite Continuity): By temporarily sacrificing his eyesight, Hiro's mastery over Hoho can be further intensified. Allowing him to move twice as fast as already permitted by his bankai. This requires that Hiro use Kagirinai's ability to rapidly fabricate additional epinephrine within his body. Forcing it into a state of "enhanced fight or fight." Allowing his muscles to exert themselves at levels not consciously reachable. In order to compensate for this sudden and extreme chemical high, Hiro forcefully shuts down the areas of the brain necessary for sight prior to initialization. Converting the nerves required into raw reiatsu, which is then converted into the first epinephrine cells. However, frequent use is extremely taxing , and prolonged exposure decreases the chances that he will successfully be able to reconstruct the removed nerves. Thus, Hiro is capable of easily out pacing most opponents, at great expense to his stamina as well as risk to his health.

【Bleach: Souls Adrift】

【Masumata, Hiroshimoto - Battousai】

【Into the Fray /|\ Bankai /|\ Warrior's End】

_{~"Sharp thorns produce delicate roses."~}

My Hider

【Personal Info】

Hider

【Name: Hiroshimoto Masumata
【Nicknames: Battousai, Ejiki-Chan, Hiro
【Alias: Rein Tokiwa
【Age: 543
【Age Appearance: 27
【Gender: Male
【Race: Shinigami
【Former Rank: Captain
【Former Division: Seventh

【Additional Appearance Info:
Standing at six foot one and weighing in at a hundred and seventy three pounds, Hiro possesses a well defined musculature and an athletic built. His eyes which generally appear to be light brown, are tinted with a hue of red. The likes of which only shows when his irises are hit by moonlight or a light of similar spectral consistency. He has a tri-pronged vertical scar upon his left cheek running over his eye; received by "Blue" during the Battle of Milford Sound, moderate length brown hair, and ears that are slightly pointed at their tips. A second 'X' shaped scar also covers the entirety of both the front and rear of his upper torso. Masumata wears a custom captain's haori over his shihakusho. Said haori is high collared with red trimming, primarily white with a red interior, and extends in length to his shins. An ornate golden clasp sits before his chest, which keeps it fastened upon his frame. His shihakusho is comprised of the standard white shitagi, black kosode, and black hakama, albeit with purple sash tied about the waist of his hakama. Hiro wears a pair of black tabi socks beneath his white waraji sandals.

However, Hiro's most definitive feature is the truculent expression often worn upon his face. As it is said that he is capable of commanding complete obedience with a single steadfast gaze. Due to this, many of Seireitei's residents refer to this as 'the Akagan' or 'Eyes of Blight'. Thus fear they would die if met with it - although there is no evidence to suggest this to be true. Additionally, Hiro wears an small silver medallion which bears the symbol of the Masumata Clan upon it. It is kept hidden within a breast pocket beneath his clothing, and is a key to the Masumata Clan grounds.

【Biography:
Hiro's story begins at the end of his father's. Takeru Enoki. Warrior, Commander, Cannibal - Takeru was known throughout Sereitei as the 'Savior King' during his time amongst the living. A reference to the fact that he claimed to be 'saving' each person he killed, by consuming them. Either before or after said death. Having been born to a Rukongai working girl, Takeru had never met the man from whom his seed had grown. As a result of the life his mother led, Takeru inevitably grew to be a troubled child, excessively angry and frustrated with his accursed world. However, it was only after he and his mother had one day been attacked by several of her clients, that his anger at last turned to rage. As he was beaten and forced to watch as they raped then brutally murdered her. Although it remains unknown as to how he managed to survive the incident, for a time Takeru was believed to be dead.

When he finally did resurface in Rukongai, Takeru was in his late teens. As well as the leader of a local gang. The Akateko, named for their fondness of marking their territory by hanging the limbs of their victims from nearby ledges and trees. It was during this time that Takeru first resorted to cannibalism, as he hunted down and ate alive every man who had killed his mother. Publicly and grotesquely. Claiming that the scythe - as was his weapon of choice at the time- was too good for them. With his revenge exacted, Takeru then turned his eyes towards conquering the entirety of Rukongai. It was during his five-year rampage that he became the 'Savior King'. Rukongai's most notorious criminal at the time. Wanted for hundreds of thefts, murders, and rapes. The last two usually at once.

It was during Takeru's final act of said brutality that Hiro was conceived. His mother, a rookie Shinigami named Arisu Tokiwa, was cornered by the Akateko during a routine patrol in the seventy-third district of South Rukongai. While her unit was able to defeat most of the attacking gangsters, She soon found herself in a state of panic as Takeru single-handedly cut down what was left of her unit. However, it wasn't until he began to publicly defile her atop of their corpses, that she began to slip into insanity. Driven beyond her braking point as he simultaneously feasted on her flesh, and deflowered her while still covered in her comrades' blood. Her sister's blood. He had pushed her to the brink of death when it came to an abrupt end. Arisu could only watch in shock as a Zanpakuto severed Takeru's head. Causing the man to collapse onto her frame.

Despite being a third seat of Rokubantai, the Sixth Division, Genjeiru Masumata had vomited. Disgusted by the sight he faced after he had saved Arisu. The sight of her laying, mutilated and broken, having been engraved within his mind. Scarring it for life whilst instilling within him a sadness for her that would forever change his life. It was this feeling of pity that moved him to volunteer to be her caregiver in the time following her 'attack'. It wasn't until she had physically recovered that they became aware of her pregnancy. After it was already far to late.

As a noble, and head of his clan, Genjeiru faced a magnitude of ridicule for his decision to care for the young shinigami. Particularly from his wife. Whose envy grew in intensity with each passing day. Her concern that he would chose his pregnant, fragile, concubine, over his sterile wife, nigh driving her to insanity. So much so, that she eventually began to poison the medication Arisu regularly required. Preventing her body and mind alike to ever recover from the trauma they had endured. Even so, Kiri could not keep her husband from falling in love with his broken damsel. Thus, in time she conceded to the will his heart, albeit without ceasing to poison his new mate. However, it would be the birth of her grotesquely conceived child that would cause the clan be split into two.

Weakened and still mentally unstable, Arisu was never expected to be able to successfully give birth. Still, despite the odds, the young shinigami managed to do so. At the expense at her life. Her final act being to write the desired name of her newborn child, whom she named Rein Tokiwa. Incidentally, it was now that those opposed to nurturing her offspring made their first move. Attempting to put the child to death with its mother, considering who the father was. In order to prevent this and appease the Clan elders, Genjeiru bargained to change to child's name and raise him as his own in order to secure is own heir to the Clan. After much debate and many promises on Genjeiru's part, he was permitted to keep the child of the woman whom he had come to love.

Having nearly become an orphan following his mother's death, Hiro was officially adopted into the Masumata family at age three. Thus, as Hiro Masumata, grew up in the Masumata mansion in Seireitei. Despite the hatred veered towards him by many members of the clan, being the only child of Kiri and Genjeiru Masumata, Hiro's youth was consumed by countless hours of training. An attempt by Genjeiru to prepare his son for the day he would become the head of the Clan. As a result, Hiro was home schooled and never attended the Shino academy.

In youth there was only ever two people in the clan whom Hiro could whole-heartedly trust, excluding his adoptive father. His cousins, Kyohei Masumata, and Shizuka Tsukikage. While this trust, by affiliation, extended to Myoubu Ichimonji - Kyohei's childhood sweetheart- as well, continual hiccups in the relationship of the two had kept Hiro at bay. Despite this, the four eventually grew to be nearly inseparable with time. So much so that they would even train together. Something which benefited Hiro greatly considering that Myoubu was the lieutenant of the Fifth Division. It would be this training that would save his life.

Hiro got his first taste of real battle approximately four-hundred years ago. A small group of traitorous clan members attempted to assassinate the his family. Although he and Kyohei were able to fend off and even kill a few of the attackers, it was his adoptive father who ultimately drove them back. Albeit at the expense of his life. Leaving a widowed Kiri in command of the small yet wealthy clan. However, it was soon revealed by Myoubu that Kiri had been the architect behind the attack. As the former had overheard Kiri planning a second assault in order to assassinate Hiro once and for all. However, when Myoubu approached Kyohei with the matter, and the couple approached Kiri, she ruthlessly slaughtered Myoubu. At which point she was killed by Kyohei. He then told the others that Myoubu and himself had struck first, and had been stopped by Hiro. While this restored the clan's faith in Hiro as heir, Kyohei was executed. Leaving the fate of the Masumata Clan in young Hiro's hands.

Approx. Two-hundred and sixty-five years ago, Hiro fell in love with a shinigami by the name of Ai Tashimoto, who was a commoner from Rukongai. Five years later, when she had graduated from the Shino Academy, Hiro proposed to Ai. Whom agreed to marry him. Incidentally, fate was not so kind. For the shingami was shortly after killed by an Adjuchas level hollow during her first deployment. Naturally, Hiro soon fell into a bout of depression - which manifested in the form of a quickened temper. Noticing his distress, Shizuka began to devote all of her attention to appeasing Hiro's rage. Worried that, if left unchecked, he would one day be consumed by it, she had even gone as far as to transfer into his division. However, it was only after Hiro had nearly cut down a subordinate whom had spoken ill of the recently deceased, that the duo subsequently vanished for some time.

Believing Hiro to have kidnapped Shizuka, Nagai, Shizuka's brother, convinced her father Junta to take immediate action to prevent 'further tainting of the Masumata bloodline'. However, lacking sufficient proof of his crime, the two were unable to obtain the aid of the Gotei Thirteen. As a result, they instead turned to outside forces. Enlisting Akateko mercenaries to kill Hiro, and 'rescue' Shizuka. Thus, it was upon Hiro's return that things went awry. Although the thugs attacked Hiro as previously ordered, they also sought to 'have their way' with Shizuka. Only to report that she had been killed by Hiro once they returned. Now returned to his normal state of mind, and stronger than before due to the nature of his absence, Hiro quickly managed to defeat the goons. Intent on returning to the manor to confront his uncle about his betrayal.

While Hiro had intended to merely turn his uncle over to the Central Fourty-Six, that all changed once they arrived. Upon realizing that Nagai had played such a pivotal role in what had occurred, Shizuka flew into a rage and lashed out. Initiating a duel between herself and Nagai as Hiro kept Junta restrained. It was during this duel that Shizuka at last revealed that she possessed feelings for Hiro, and had since they were children. Proclaiming that she would forever be at his side, regardless of what form that may take. As shocked by this as the others, despite of spent so much time with her as of late, Hiro allowed Junta to slip from his grasp. A mistake which the man sought to capitalize on by attempting to impale Hiro. Which he would have done had Shizuka not utilized Shunpo to move between them and take the blow instead. Enraged by the sight of her bleeding frame, Hiro sought to strike down Junta. However, his hand was stayed as Nagai swiftly decapitated his father before collapsing in grief. Stating that he loved his sister and had only ever wanted to see Hiro dead. It was only Shizuka's weakened plea for her brother's life that kept Hiro from seeking his head.

Having taken Shizuka to seek treatment at the fourth division's barracks, Hiro was then brought before the Central Fourty-Six to answer for both his disappearance and the incident following his return. There he explained how he had accompanied Shizuka to the world of the living, where they had spent the twelve days training their minds. Primarily as a remedy for his depression. As well as what had happened on their return. Eventually it was ultimately decided that while both Shizuka and Hiro would be pardoned, Nagai would be exiled to the world of the living.

It was also here that it was decided that Hiro would be named a Lieutenant of Nanabantai, the Seventh Division.

It wasn't until fifty years ago, that Hiro earned the true respect of the soul society and ascended to the rank of Captain. As it was then that Hiro alongside Shizuka and a Captain, fought to protect the human world from a sudden onslaught of hollow attacks. Though it was unknown as to why they attacked, it was the unveiling of Hiro's bankai that led to their defeat. Thus, it wasn't until after said battle that he acquired his namesake and was bestowed the Moniker "Battousai". A title honoring his mastery of swordplay.

During 'the Battle of Milford Sound' nearly the entirety of both the Fifth and Seventh Divisions were sent to Milford Sound New Zealand to combat a sudden wave of hollows emerging there. Led by the twin Vasto Lordes 'Red' and 'Blue', the legion managed to obliterate most of the combined shinigami forces, with the survivors numbering under fifty. It was at the side of his current captain, Shizuka Tsukikage, that Hiro attended the battle. Guiding the shinigami under his command, while Shizuka - as acting-captain - and the other captain engaged the Vasto Lordes. While the Shinigami were able to hold their own for the most part, things quickly went south when the captains begun to be overpowered and their opponents turned on the lesser shinigami. It was at this point that Hiro, utilizing the abilities of his bankai, was able to turn the tide. Together, he and the others were able to weaken the twin hollows enough for Shizuka to deliver the finishing blow. However, in order to kill the hollows, Shizuka needlessly sacrificed the lives of nearly two hundred humans in the vicinity of the battle. Subsequently resulting in her being indefinitely exiled to the Human World.

Since becoming a Captain, Hiro begun spend endless hours training with members of both of the second and eleventh divisions. Intent on using elements of both division's teachings to reinforce and redesign the training regime of the seventh division. To further this agenda, Hiro also went on to have his division host an annual Hakuda tournament as a way of both gauging and improving the skills of the Gotei thirteen as a collective whole.

However, this would only prove to be the beginning of his Journey. For then came the fall.

It was five years ago. No one expect them to come. No one expect them to strike. And in one day, the Old Gotei lost it all.

For Hiro, the battle was fierce, and beyond anything he had ever encountered. In an instant, he went from reading reports to fighting for his life. Yet, he would not go quietly. Going so far as to destroy the entirety of the seventh division's barracks, as well as a large swath of surrounding land in the process. However, his attempt to hold his ground went awry once a second assailant spontaneously joined the fray. Especially since they had begun to decimate his squad members by the dozens. Thus, in one final effort, Hiro moved to intervene. And subsequently paid the price. Soon finding himself between a deadly pincer attack. One which crushed both his higher and lower cervical nerves. Leaving him in a quadriplegic state.

Fear, anger, regret, pain. They filled his being as he steeled himself, awaiting the final plunge of their blades. But then there was hate. Intense, burning hate. And all he knew had faded to black.

While Hiro survived, and his body recovered. He never forgot the pain. Never appeased his rage. Never lived down the shame. And so for five years, indirectly, he trained. Leading mission after mission. Killing one hollow after the next. He pushed. Both himself and his men. Pushed until only the strong remained. Until the day came. When Commander Yamagi announced he planned to retake the Seireitei. Masumata inwardly rejoiced, but having driven his men so hard. Very few remained. Thus, a decision was reached between he and Kenpachi Sannouske to merge their troops. All of Hiro's men would follow the Kenpachi's lead. While only his Lieutenant and a select few would accompany him along the way.

【Personality:
Outwardly, Hiro is polite, soft-spoken and intellectual. Often addressing his subordinates by their given names. He rarely shows any sign of alarm or distress, and often has entire situations planned out well in advance. Due to his upbringing, he is also highly disciplined. Thus, is capable of taking and executing orders without hesitation. However, he is always first to question an order if he believes it to be flawed. While he initially appears to be a very kind and passive individual, Hiro is known to be overly protective. Hence is easily angered when someone/something he admittedly cares for is at risk.

Despite the fact that Hiro rarely shows it, he can at times be an outgoing and fun loving individual. When exemplifying this, Masumata possesses an actively creative sense of humor and is known to be flirtatious around women. This however, ties into the fact that he is a self proclaimed gentleman. Thus goes out of his way to ensure he always behaves in a respectable manor when dealing with, or around females. Provided he deems them respectable.

It should also be noted that although generally discreet about it, Hiro possesses a strong degree of hate towards Hollows and Hollow-kind. This hate is especially strong when dealing with Arrancar. Although it is publicly unknown exactly why he developed such a hate for them, said hate is so vivid that he will often engage any being in possession of hollow-esque reiatsu immediately and without reservation. Still, this is not his greatest flaw. Although usually nigh impossible to provoke; with exception to the above, when truly enraged, Hiro seems to lose most of his semblance of self. As a result, he oft mirrors an living embodiment of violence. Therefore, when in this state, Hiro will often attack anyone, or thing, that gets between him and the object of his rage with little regard for his own well being. It is believed that this splinter personality was not always present; only taking form following Hiro's 'disappearance'.

【Notable Traits】

Hider

【Likes/Dislikes】

✔ Playing the Flute
✔ Poetry
✔ Martial Combat
✔ Intellectual Debate

✘ Laziness
✘ Dishonorable Acts/Individuals
✘ Spiders
✘ Sake
✘ Hypocrites
✘ Hollows

【Defining Traits】

Positive

▲ Intelligent
▲ Honorable
▲ Observant
▲ Adaptable
▲ Sympathetic

Neutral

☯ Skeptical
☯ Unpredictable
☯ Efficient
☯ Analytical
☯ Reserved

Negative

▼ Critical
▼ Possessive
▼ Secretive
▼ Proud
▼ Willful

【Relationships】

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Shizuka Tsukikage: Friend/Ex-Lover

As Adoptive cousins, Shizuka and Hiro have known each other since their early childhood. Although Shizuka's feelings for Hiro first developed during their adolescents, they were not made public until later in their careers as Shinigami. Although the two never officially committed to an exclusive relationship, they did once share an intimate night. Thus, both become openly jealous at the possibility of another entering the other's life. It should be noted that while Shizuka admires Hiro for his ideals and devotion to them, Hiro's true feelings are quite unclear. He has avoided her company ever since their time of intimacy.

Kenpachi Sannouske: Rival/Friend

While the two have been apart of the Gotei for sometime, it was only after the fall that the two actually bonded. Although they often appear hostile and at one another's throats, both have learned to respect the other. Having formed a bond of brotherhood through combat. While Hiro would never openly admit it, he considers the Kenpachi to be a personal friend, thus would lay is life on the line for him should he ever feel it necessary.

Sunōfurēku Tatasuko: Friend

Having frequently worked with Sunofurēko, or Rēku as he has taken to calling her. Hiro has come to deeply respect her. Both as an individual and a shinigami. Although, he is usually tight-lipped about his feelings and impossible to read, her uncanny ability to always understand his hidden feelings is the seed which blossomed into their friendship. Although many among the shinigami often attempt to tease Hiro, questioning the nature of their relationship. He views Sunofurēku as a little sister. Thus, is aptly protective of her. So much that the two tend to bicker whenever Hiro feels she is putting herself at risk.

【Equipment】

Hider

Sekkachi Haori:

Although it is a well guarded secret - known only to a select few -, Masumata's Captain Haori is Woven from a material derived from Sekkiseki. As such, its true value is not that of a mere badge of office, but as a training tool. The haori operates by repelling reiryoku - acting as an instrument used to suppress the wearer’s manipulation of reiatsu. Due to this, anyone who wears it will find that they themselves are suppressed. More accurately, that the reiryoku that within their being is suppressed. Causing it to act as a spiritual weight upon them. This can be fatal to anyone in possession of less than lieutenant-level reiryoku. Due to its role as a literal anchor upon their inherent. Once it is removed, Masumata appears to undergo a noticeably significant increase in power. Momentarily exerting his reiatsu at maximum until he willingly reigns it in. However, in truth, he simply gains access to the sealed half of his reiryoku pool. Prior to removal, Hiro's reiatsu is lieutenant leveled at best.

【Capabilities】

Hider

【General Aptitude】

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Fighting Style:

Hiro's preferred method of combat is the Masumata Clan Zanjutsu centered style Known as Warutsu. Warutsu, also known as the Extirpating waltz, is a combative form that simultaneously utilizes elements of hakuda, and hoho to improve the effectiveness of one's zanjutsu. It forces the practitioner to view their zanpakuto as an extension of their physical being as well as spiritual one. Both by encouraging movements that wouldn't normally be applied while using zanjutsu, as well as movements that are frequently used, in order to keep the opponent on their toes.

Unlike traditional styles, Warutsu also uses Hakuda as a means of reinforcing and empowering each of the weapon's movements. Much in the same way it uses Hoho to increase the speed at which the practitioner is capable of acting and reacting. Both with and without a weapon. Due to this, the practitioner is capable of utilizing an unorthodox and wildly unpredictable style to maximize damage while simultaneously minimizing potential risks. Warutsu also allows Hiro to switch between traditional and non-traditional styles on the fly. Allowing him to be widely versatile.

A feat which serves as the basis for Hiro's true combat strategy. To subdue the enemy without fighting. Thus, he will never fight in the same manner twice. Making use of his analytical and observational skills in order to study and access his enemies prior to formulating an action plan on the fly. Making his deadliest weapon his mind. Hiro believes that in combat, to re-frame from using all advantages afforded to one my the enemy, is to show disrespect to that enemy. Thus, prides himself in completely destroying an opponent once he is able to understand them. Making full use of everything from his surroundings to aid in his fight. Including allies.

Vast Reiryoku(4/4): Hiro has been noted to possess a considerably enormous amount of inherent spiritual power, which through practice, he is capable of finely controlling. While it remains naught but speculation - it was once widely accepted that if Hiro was somehow able to increase his reiryoku - he could rival even the Captain Commander in terms of raw power. This view is not shared by Hiro. Despite the fact that he is capable of continuously drawing on said power - in excess - for an impressively long time. Even by the standards of a captain level shinigami.

Legendary Reiatsu(5/4): In addition to possessing a notably above average degree of reiryoku for some one of his rank, Hiro's reiryoku, when exerted, is extremely concentrated. As a result, his reiatsu levels leagues above that of the average captain's. Hence, while those whom possess an exceptional level of reiatsu themselves are often spared its effects, most shinigami of lower caliber are susceptible to his reiatsu's side effects. Which situationally include, paralyzation, fear induction, and phantom pain affliction. However, the severity of these conditions can vary depending on the individual affected, as well as in accordance to the size of the gap in power between Hiro and themselves.

Incredible Alignment:(4/4): "Without reflection, we go blindly on our way, creating more unintended consequences, and failing to achieve anything useful." These words were the basis behind every training regime, Hiro has ever endeavored to compete. Through his own drive for self-improvement, Hiro has spent more time analyzing himself than any other topic. Dissecting every failure for cause, every mistake for reason, every action for justification. This became even more prevalent following the fall of the Old Gotei. So much so, that Kagirinai often teases that he only visits her so he can stare at her. As her advice is often a redundancy of Hiro's thoughts.

Zanjutsu Grandmaster(4/4): Like most members of the Masumata Clan, Hiro specializes in swordsmanship. Trained since he could walk in the art of Zanjutsu, Hiro's talent with a sword is one of exceedingly rare quality. Despite his relatively young age, Hiro is capable of effectively fighting ambidextrously with anything which even remotely resembles a sword. Both when dual and single wielding. While he does not yet consider himself to be at his peak, there are currently very few known individuals whose skill with a blade equals, or surpasses his own. Most notable among the few being the current Kenpachi and Captain Commander.

Impressive Offense(3/4): Though his use of Warutsu, Hiro has the capability to perform a myriad of offensive strikes. The likes of which range from varying schools of sword technique. As of current, his offensive capabilities are limited only by his physical strength and personal combative preferences. As he has frequently gone out of his way to expand his knowledge of the art. Thus is knowledgeable in all recorded forms of swordsmanship. However, following bankai, Hiro's offensive capabilities are potentially immeasurable. Due solely to the scope of his zanpakuto's abilities.

Impressive Defense(3/4): Though his use of Warutsu, Hiro has the capability to perform a myriad of defensive stances. The likes of which range from varying schools of sword technique. As of current, his defensive capabilities are limited only by his physical strength and personal combative preferences. As he has frequently gone out of his way to expand his knowledge of the art. Thus is knowledgeable in all recorded forms of swordsmanship. However, following bankai, Hiro's defensive capabilities are immeasurable. Due solely to the scope of his zanpakuto's abilities.

Incredible Resonance(4/4):"Together we can face any challenges. As deep as the ocean, as wide as the sky." As the first words ever uttered to Hiro by Kagirinai. Their bond has always been one of notable strength. One which only strengthened with ever hardship Hiro endured. For through it all, the only constant was always Kagirinai. Whom has repeatedly offered both console and support whenever he seemed uneasy. Likewise, Kagirinai has repeatedly found reassurance in Hiro's conviction and rigidity. Proving that their synergy has only improved.

Hakuda Master(3/4): Due to the nature of his training growing up, as well as personal efforts on his part, Hiro's skill in Hakuda in noted to be formidable. So much so that he has become proficient in several styles of martial arts. What makes him truly dangerous however, is his remarkable perceptive abilities. Which allow him to easily predict and anticipate enemy movements and counter accordingly. He is such a technical fighter that he has been capable of besting fighters far more experienced than himself with moderate effort.

Average Offense(2/4): Technique. This is the core of Hiro's offensive prowess. While his arms are capable of delivering devastating blows, due to the musculature developed through his use of zanjutsu. Hiro's strikes are at an about average level for that of a seasoned hakuda combatant. However, because Hiro has focused on perfecting the technique of every strike he knows, he is capable it amplifying the damage he can deal. Simply by utilizing proper footwork and motion structure. Allowing him to deliver deceptively hard blows.

Average Defense(2/4): Between his perceptiveness, and knowledge of the combative arts, Hiro is an averagely defensive fighter. Relying mostly on accurate predictions of enemy movements into order to counter and/or evade. However, it should be noted that due his skill in Hoho, Hiro will often use shunpo to out maneuver his opponents. Executing acrobatic feats which make it difficult for his foes to strike or grapple him.

Average Physical Strength(2/4): While he isn't physically stronger than an active shinigami of his size and build, his intimacy with hand to hand combat makes him an difficult foe in a brawl. Skilled in many forms of martial arts, Hiro is a very well rounded fighter whom is just as capable of dishing damage out, as he is of withstanding it.

Untrained Kidō(0/4): Hiro is incapable of casting even the simplest of kido spells. While this is due mostly to a general lack of interest in the aforementioned, thus is, in theory, remediable. Hiro currently shows no interest in doing so.

Poor Kido Power(0/4): No Kido. No Kido Power. Enough Said.

Incredible Perception(4/4): Hiro has always possessed the inherent ability to adapt to and learn things fairly quickly. Thus, has never struggled to understand a new or unfamiliar phenomenon. Because it is also in his nature to think analytically, Hiro has proven himself capable of effectively dissecting and evaluating situations with minimal effort. A trait which he best exemplifies during combat. Additionally, Hiro has taken it upon himself to be as well informed about the world as is feasibly possible. Hence can often appear to be a 'wise ass' when it comes to general facts about most things. However, his area of mental expertise is in what he calls 'battle strategics'. Which involves knowing specific information about possible combative inquiries. Involving things such as weaponry, combative shinigami and hollow techniques, the combative abilities of both shinigami and hollows, various locations within the Soul Society, and Human World, as well as the capabilities of his fellow captains, and the relationships between them.

All this is held together by his phenomenal sensory abilities. When concentrating in the midst of battle, Hiro's ability to sense reishi is so proficient that he possesses a sort of mind's eye. Causing him to subconsciously cease seeing with his eyes during intense combat. Allowing him to sense strong sources of reiatsu from a few kilometers away. Additionally, within the Soul Society, Hiro can sense people who are masterfully capable of masking their spiritual presence by sensing areas devoid of reishi. However, in the World of the Living - or any location that is not full of spiritual particles - this type of sensory becomes unreliably clouded.

Hohō Grandmaster(4/4): Hiro has long been noted as being one of the Soul Society's most proficient Hoho users. While he is not the fastest by far in his normal state. He is capable of easily out pacing the average high caliber shinigami. More notably though, is his high level of inherent flexibility, maneuverability and reflexes. As he has been seen executing physical maneuvers which most shinigami would struggle to perform with relative ease. Under the effects of his bankai, Hiro's speed is sufficient enough to allow him to contend with the fastest of shinigami.

Incredible Mobility(4/4): To many, Masumata's degree of flexibility is out right disgusting. As nimble as an olympic level athlete, Hiro body boasts general hyper-mobility. Giving most of his joints the appearance of 'double jointedness'. This makes him impossibly difficult to grapple as well of strike with traditional motions. He is capable of performing acrobatic feats most people would consider to be impossible. Although this is done via practice, and is a subsequent result of his martial training.

Average Resiliance(2/4): While he isn't physically stronger than any active captain-class shinigami of his size and build , Hiro's strong will has often led him to be perceived as tougher than he actually is. As his blatantly stubborn to surrender to adversity is frequently a driving factor in his will to continue on. Despite the situation or odds. Yet, this iron clad resolve should not be mistaken for an exceptional degree of mental fortitude. As his psyche already bears scars from his past.

Shorthand

Reir: 4
Rei: 5
Align: 4
Zan: 4
Off: 3
Def: 3
Reso: 4
Hak: 3
Off: 2
Def: 2
Phy: 2
Kid: 0
KP: 0
Per: 5
Hoh: 4
Mob: 4
Resil: 2

Total T(0): 15.
Total S(0): 8+6+6+6(26) +10(36)

【Specialization】

Hider

Ken’atsu (Sword Pressure): Zanjutsu Physical Strength(2+), Zanjutsu(3+), Reiatsu(3+)

By utilizing surgical precision when manipulating his reiatsu, Hiro momentarily redistributes all of his exerted reiatsu along the musculature of his arms. Having enhanced his strength via this method, he then proceeds to initiate a downward dual handed strike. Subsequently releasing a large concussive burst of air pressure. Said burst is capable of inflicting significant lacerative damage. Although it appears as a faint cresent-shaped ripple of air, the exceptional power behind it enables it to carve through most forms of organic matter.

【Zanpakuto】

Sealed State

_{~"In the midst of movement and chaos, keep stillness inside of you."~}

Additional Description: In it's sealed state, Kagirinai appears as an silver wedding band embedded with rubies and diamonds. A form which mimics the wedding band Hiro was to receive from Ai.

Inner World & Spirit:

Hiro's Inner world is his mental depiction of the end of the universe, or it's heat death. It consists only of the last star in the Universe, which he refers to as the Cold Star, sitting on the edge of a Time dilating Vortex that prevents the Universe from actually ending. It represents the constant inner struggle within Hiro. Who is frequently torn between his desire to protect those he loves and destroy those he hates. According to Kagirinai, his reluctance to forget Ai is also reflected in this depiction as well. Albeit as an autumn forest landscape. Composed of Sakura trees, with a single beaten path through its center.


Kagirinai itself often appears as a five-foot tall humanoid female with a slender physique and long red hair. Her face boasts soft, adorable features and lips always lined with smirk or smile. Kagirinai wears a seductively form-fitting attire with black and white coloration, and possesses palely fair skin. Kagirinai's eyes have cat-like pupils and are an orange color with white sclerae in this form. Alternatively, when Hiro is in bankai, Kagirinai appears as a humanoid entity comprised of a blood red fluid - this is her true form. Within this form, her physique appears masculine and her height is increased to an menacing seven feet. A sinister fanged grin also makes up the entirety of her jawline, with her eyes becoming a pair of solid white swaths. Each respectively stretching from the bridge of the nose to temple of the head.

Zanpakuto Personality: Sarcastic and wittily sharp tongued, Kagirinai is in many aspects very childlike. Usually maintaining an unnecessarily energetic and carefree demeanor. Yet, despite her cheerfulness Kagirinai can also be intimidating once annoyed. Often being quick to violence if criticized or insulted. It should however also be noted that, in lieu of her behavior, Kagirinai possesses a sage like degree of maturity. Although she is fully aware of the rarity of her own combative prowess, even among zanpakuto, Kagirinai also treats everyone with a degree of respect, even her enemies. Thus, will in rare moments, conduct herself in an intelligent and aristocratic manner. It is believed that her narcissistic behavior merely acts as a mask for her thoughtful and caring nature. Most frequently exemplified by her motherly demeanor when in combat with Hiro.

Visuals

Outer Layer

Inner Depth

Human Form

True Form

Shikai

_{~"Shimmer and reveal, come forth and alter. Lend me your aid. Kagirinai."~}

Ability: Kagirinai has the ability to absorb reiatsu and convert it into physical matter. Including living organisms. Although these constructs take on the likeness of various objects, because they are made entirely of reiryoku, they operate as many kido spells do. Thus are highly resistant to most physical confrontations, yet susceptible to reiatsu based attacks and interruptions. It should also be noted that while Hiro prefers to create plants, Kagirinai's ability is not limited in what objects it can create. This fact is only known to those whom have witnessed Hiro fight to his limits, and is disregarded as rumor when officially questioned.

Techniques

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Kyuujin (Absorption): Kagirinai allows Hiro to metabolize reiatsu. Allowing him to consume reiatsu and use it to heal himself in a process similar to photosynthesis. The rate at which he heals is determined by both the severity of the wound as well as the available amount of external reiatsu. As Hiro is not able to absorb any reiatsu produced by himself or another's zanpakuto. It should also be noted that the proficiency of this ability is greatly decreased when he is exposed to substantial quantities of hollow reiatsu. As well as nullified when no external reiatsu source is present. That is ti say, when he is completely and utterly isolated from anything which independently exerts reiatsu. However, all wounds healed via this method are only repaired temporarily. Thus, will revert to their previous state once Hiro ceases to actively sustain the effect. If said wounds are mortal, he will succumb to them at that time. Although he has learned to maintain this effect subconsciously, doing so still subtracts from his perception of the battle. Even if only minutely.

Bankai

_{~"Bankai... Kigirinai Suenagaku."~}

Ability: Following activation Hiro's body merges with that of the manifested Kagiriani's and he loses the ability to use all of his shikai techniques. Inversely gaining a large boost in physical strength, speed and durability. Multiplying them Sevenfold. Essentially, his bankai's core release acts as an vitality buffer. Upon activation all non-severe previously obtained wounds are healed. This is an one off effect. Due to his body and zanpakuto becoming one, Hiro also gains Kagirinai's ability to convert reiatsu into matter. However is now capable of doing so by utilizing his own reiatsu as a source.

Due to this, Hiro is permitted the same degree of control over said conversion abilities. So much so that his prowess nearly rivals that of Kagirinai. This allows him to alter his own body, at the microscopic level. Altough doing so is dangerous, taxing and potentially permanent, this allows him to utilize Kagirinai's abilities more thoroughly when creating matter. Allowing him to create far more complex objects.

Techniques

Hider

Shingai (Gods Armor): Initiated upon activation of bankai. Once resolved, Kagirinai temporarily physically bonds itself with Hiro. Whom becomes physically morphed during this state, growing horn-like appendages upon his forehead, as well as a crimson red pigmentation of the skin. In addition, enlarged and protruding eyebrows are also apparent upon Hiro's face, sitting above his eyes. Which are now solid white and without pupils. During this state, Hiro's dermal tissue is continually augmented by converting the reiatsu surrounding him into additional layers of thick skin. This skin is made to simulate the hardness of a zanpakuto, thus can parry adeptly powerful strikes without ill effect. While this makes him almost impervious to physical attacks, he is still susceptible to powerful penetrating and/or energy based attacks. As well as attacks possessing an incalculable amount of driving force. It should be noted that areas not naturally covered by skin remain points of vulnerability.

Mugen Renzoku (Infinite Continuity): By temporarily sacrificing his eyesight, Hiro's mastery over Hoho can be further intensified. Allowing him to move twice as fast as already permitted by his bankai. This requires that Hiro use Kagirinai's ability to rapidly fabricate additional epinephrine within his body. Forcing it into a state of "enhanced fight or fight." Allowing his muscles to exert themselves at levels not consciously reachable. In order to compensate for this sudden and extreme chemical high, Hiro forcefully shuts down the areas of the brain necessary for sight prior to initialization. Converting the nerves required into raw reiatsu, which is then converted into the first epinephrine cells. However, frequent use is extremely taxing , and prolonged exposure decreases the chances that he will successfully be able to reconstruct the removed nerves. Thus, Hiro is capable of easily out pacing most opponents, at great expense to his stamina as well as risk to his health.

【Bleach: Souls Adrift】

Cool. Lol.