Welcome to Bleach Society Role-Play, BSRP for short. We're a Beginner to Advanced canon site with non-canon elements for maximum roleplay enjoyment. We focus on characters' individual stories; however, there are many more than your own. Best viewed in Google Chrome!
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Shiro accepted the keys Theocelese forced upon her but the last key came with a question, a decision and a choice that he intended for her to make on her own. Would she abandon everything she knew about her abilities and the experiences from her otherworldly experiences, tossing away the possibilities of this new existence? If she did that and returned to being just a normal human girl wouldn't she also have to sacrifice the memories of her parents? Shiro didn't like the thought of not remembering. She couldn't see herself being able to honor the deaths of her parents if she couldn't even remember them or the reason why they'd perished.
But the other choice? To remain aware of this other side, to learn of the hardships and dangers that came along with it? Knowing herself she would likely end up abandoning herself to anything she deemed to be a just cause. Could she handle such a responsibility? She would never know if she didn't take that next step into the unknown.
Two difficult options lay before Shiro. No matter which choice she made the girl would likely end up losing a part of herself regardless of the decision. Abandon everything, forget everything, becoming an oblivious normal again just like every other person in the world? Or take everything she knew, learn about the unknown, and push forward into an uncertain future?
"I..." Shiro didn't know what to say. Mr. Rose was serious, hanging on her very decision. Logically she should pick the normal life. A life devoid of otherworldly suffering and pain. But it felt like that answer now would just be an escape from the reality she now faced. A part of her was also very curious at what the key, which looked like something belonging to a vault, held in wait for her to discover. Denying the key would mean denying herself a possibly once in a lifetime opportunity to learn more about the things she wouldn't otherwise have had the chance to know about.
Shiro hesitated. Picked up the glass she'd kept and tipped it to her lips, enjoying the pulp free flavor of juice while her thoughts pondered. The five senses tended to work in mysterious ways. This drink simply wouldn't be the same if she couldn't also see and smell it. A full and complete experience could not be gained if a part of her senses were to be cut off... Shiro knew her choice, knew what she wanted- no, needed to do.
The serious aura that filled the room felt contagious. Setting the glass down, Shiro gently grasped the vault key, lifting it from Mr. Rose's hand as she made eye contact. Shiro's eyes burned with an invisible determination. "My father is dead. I do not wish to forget. If you will help me, I want to carve out my own path..."
The decision prompted the Arrancar to look off to the side, showcasing a slight bit of disappointment. Yet the decision was not his own, and he could not force another sentient being's personal choices. "So be it." Was all Theocelese said before taking another sip from his coffee. "If you are going to be fighting with me, then you will need the suitable armaments to do so." Theocelese set his drink and smoke down on the table again, the half-cigarette resting on the saucer beside the cup. "The key I have given to you..." He paused for a long moment, hands going to the needles medically taped to Shiro's arm. He gave her a look, not audibly voicing his intentions, but none the less telling her the IV were to be removed. And without giving time to ready herself for it, they were taken out. "We will go together, and on the way I will begin to explain everything I can and you will ask your questions." He said, now fishing in the drawer and pulling out a small pill bottle. Ultram, the bottle read, along with the dosage levels, recommendations, warnings, and the like. Two pills were taken, and placed on the counter. "You may still be feeling pain, but that does not mean you cannot walk." The bottle found itself returned to the drawer, and his morning coffee and nicotene were now taken as he stood upon.
"Get dressed and meet me outside in ten minutes." The Arrancar did not speak so gently, and if anything, sounded more like an order.
Returning to his Shigai, he waited on the balcony, arms folded behind his back in contemplative silence. Only when the sliding glass door open and closed behind him did Theocelese turn slightly, left arm unfurling and his hand reaching out to take it. "Come," He said. "Trust me, and do not let go." One leg lifted, his foot resting against the iron railing and when his hand was taken, both Shiro and Theocelese disappeared. It took two and a half Steps to take Shiro to where the key taken would be needed. The movements were so fast, more than likely there wasn't enough time to register that she now stood on solid ground in what looked like a storage complex. The place looked barren, barred off by a ten foot high concrete wall which was mounted with steel bars and barbed wire. In front of them, a single large shutter stood out. It's size dwarfed the others around it. Theocelese raised an arm, gesturing to the large, archaic lock.
"I told you a war has been started. There is yet another faction of spiritual fighters, now rampaging against both the Shinigami and Hollow. They are called the Quincy, and they are a vile species. Humans, yes, but it is in their methods of combat which make them a dishonorable and disgraceful lot. You see, there is a balance. A natural order to things. Human souls are either sent to the Soul Society, or become Hollow. Hollow consume souls, and the Shinigami purify those Hollow. The Quincy, however, completely eradicate whatever they kill. The spirit is not held in retention, passed on or reborn. This disrupts the balance and as a result, all of creation suffers, causing instability and ruination. This is who we will be marching against, but they are not the only ones you will have to fight. Hollow, Arrancar, Shinigami and Vizard as well as a host of lesser rabble may be present. We do not have the luxury of years, perhaps months...but I will not get to see you age before the next battles begin." Finally, Theocelese looked to Shiro. "When I was as you are now, I knew nothing more than the monsters that roamed the world and the beings who fought them. Myself and others banded together, and it is together we forged for ourselves the weapons of war needed. I no longer need these, have kept them safe until there was a need for them. Not only are there many weapons inside, but armor and garb to which you will clad yourself with. There is nothing in here you will not learn to use, there is no single style to learn. Let us go inside."
Beyond the shudder was at least ten feet of open space, and nothing more than a single steel door which held the same lock as the one just opened. It looked like the entrance to an underground bunker, or shelter of some kind. This new door, once opened held a single staircase made of concrete, the gray flooring and steel handrails were all the colouring this path held. The flourescent lights were the only things lighting the descent, which hopefully, to no one's surprise, led to one more non-descript door. For the third door, a third lock was used. The same as the others. "In here." Theocelese said, his arm opening in one last gesture pushing the girl to open the storage room. And what lay inside? When the lights flickered on, it looked like a weapon enthusiasts dream come true. The bunker-style cache, split right down the middle, offered up a selection of gear for any taste. Swords of all kinds, spears, axes, maces and clubs. There even looked to be a gun cabinet loaded with various caliber weapons and military grade ammunition boxes containing....obviously ammunition. On the other end, mannequins wearing more than a few styles of armor and shields waited to be donned once again. The Arrancar moved towards this area, going to a tall dresser. His gloved hands opened the piece of furniture, revealing still fresh looking sets of medieval garb. "Find which size you think will fit you best." The combined full set was nothing more than black pants, close to the style he wore when not in his fake, human body. A long sleeve underarmour style of shirt hung with the pants, and the last of the set was a simple black tabard with a dark gold trim. In the center, matching the color of the tabard trim, a large cross professionally stitched in.
"As of right now, you and you alone have access to this place. There may be others in the future...but for now, take what you wish."
Shiro looked on in awe and wonderment at the arsenal that sprawled out before her within the magnificent stash. Was Mr. Rose serious!? All of this belonged to her now? Things seemed so incredibly spectacular right now, Shiro was beginning to wonder when the hard part would begin. Thinking about it, that part would probably start after she chose her first set of gear...
Shiro stepped into the vault. Her father might have been a collector but his collection paled in comparison to this. Armor and weapons lay on display in every direction she looked. Running in and trying out everything as quickly as possible was a very tempting thought but Shiro denied herself that childish endeavor, though she failed to properly hide her body's squirming excitement in the process.
Listening to Theocelese's direction, Shiro searched and found a set that would fit to her size, before continuing over to the weapons. The variety of both bladed and blunt weaponry was immense but if she were to improve her already known skills, she would need something more suited to her current style for now. Picking up one of the Katana that suited her size, Shiro swung it a couple times, giving it a taste of the vault air before re-sheathing it.
As far as armor, it all looked amazing and she wanted to try it all on. But upon reaching for a piece of full plate, she realized how foolish the thought of wearing full body armor would be. Just the metal chest piece alone felt heavy in her hands. Donning a full set of this would cause dire complications with mobility. "Mobility is life... and thus did the unclad thief strike down the armored soldier..." Shiro whispered to herself, an obscure life reference her father had once taught her.
Looking back to the stands, Shiro decided to look for something lighter. At the very least protecting her vitals was important. "I think I found what I wanted for now..." Shiro turned to Theocelese after lifting a leather breastplate from its stand to show him her somewhat modest selection.
While Shiro browsed around, Theocelese found a military dufflebag to pack more things and planned to have much more brought along. A secondary bag was also picked up for what Shiro took for herself. "You and I have roughly two weeks together before I must go." At least he was letting someone know this time. "There are forces at work that I must combat. Not the Quincy, mind you...my time with them will come soon enough, if I return." Theocelese left that implication there, out in the open. "There is someone that has been alive for a very long time. Someone who orchestrated the death of my wife twice, and I now have the means to exact vengeance upon this being. I'm sorry if I gave you the false hope of more than a few mere weeks, but I will see you grow." No matter how much it was explained, unless he downright told the girl of his origins. He'd read enough comic books and saw enough movies to know to never do that. He watched the girl out of the corner of his eye as he spoke, watching the things she grabbed. A katana for sure, the attire and a plain leather breastplate. Maybe for real combat, these things would do...but given Shiro was about to go into a training phase relatively soon, a good deal more was needed. Training weights, chainmail forged from black iron, other protective pieces and a variety of other weapons were loaded into the bag. All in all, by the time he was finished grabbing all that he felt was needed, his idle rifling through his old possessions...he saw it. A little book, one he was always fascinated with--and now, he knew why. His stomach turned into knots...but it was decided if he was to know who she was in time, it was only fair for her. "Here." He said, picking up the old, tattered book. Time took its toll on the once pristine pages, now having turned them an odd shade of yellow. Yet, the words were still visible and still legible from their original print date. The title read The Illiad. He tossed the old book towards Shiro. "Read this. It will make much more sense to you...if you can piece it all together." He then pointed to the dufflebags and the shield he gathered. "Carry these back up. I will be introducing you to a...friend of mine, who I have no doubt will help you in your training in my absence." And now her training began today. She needed muscle, and those little twig arms would not do. Shiro also needed to begin understanding the earlier he was harsh with her, the better. He dug into his pocket, retrieving the Communicator and activating the screen. As he walked back up the stairs, he glared at the number to Caesar's bakery, having not talked to the man in...he couldn't remember how long, but the call needed to be made none the less. He pressed the screen, and the phone changed.
It was another routine day for Car at the bakery. The constant throng of customers never ceased to amaze the vizard although he had pretty much gotten used this sort of fame as it were. As usual an assortment of breads and pastries, all decorated with various sugars and fillings sat neatly on trays waiting to be moved to their various displays on his counter. Usually Ain would be the one to handle such things, but he'd not heard from his assistant in years and, as much as she threatened the overall safety of his little business, he couldn't bring himself to replace her.
Thus the vizard simply took on her labors in addition to his own. Wearing simple jeans and a shirt hidden behind a large apron, Caesar went about seeing the mist recent surge of customers and cakes and pies flew off the countertops and into respective paper bags. The man moved like a whirlwind across the various displays at the whims of the hungry before rushing back to check on things in his oven.
In his hurriedness, he'd neglected the ringing phone on his countertop. Probably a delivery, which again Ain would usually handle. They would have to wait momentarily whilst he tensed to his latest batch of banana and walnut bread. Once it was set out to cool the vizard dashed out to take care of the remaining customers.
As the last of the humans exited the cigars slumped almost triumphantly on his countertop. Another early morning rush taken care of.
I've still got it.
It was only then that the vizard remembered the ringing phone. In all the madness he'd tuned it out almost completely. Whoever it was they were determined to get through to him, reaching for the receiver Cae held the phone tobhis ear, grabbing a nearby notebook and pen to scribble down what he assumed would be an order to be picked up.
Hello, this is Caesar's Bakery where we always rise to the occasion.
Shiro took the book Theocelese handed her. She couldn't be sure but she thought she might have read this one as a school project before... Maybe... she couldn't remember. Being pointed the bags, Shiro kind of wondered what the meaning of picking out her own stuff had been if he'd just gone and packed everything she'd needed anyway.
Grabbing one of the bags by it's handle Shiro made to carry it out of the vault. Instead she immediately fell backwards onto the floor. Smarting at the renewed pain in her ribs, the girl went back over to the bag and opened it up. The bag had been too heavy for her meager strength to even move, mostly because of how much stuff Theocelese had packed into it. She could even see weighted training gear poking out. Even separating the stuff and carrying it by itself might be a bit of an issue, Shiro thought, noting the 25KG label on one of the pieces.
First things first, Get the hard part done and the rest should be easier. Or so Shiro thought as she tried to lift the 25KG weight out of the bag. Instantly her injured ribs screamed in pain, causing the teen to drop the weight. Sinking back into the bag, the weight mocking the girl as she sat, waiting for the pain to subside. "This... could take a while..." Shiro sighed.
Unpacking the bags of anything significantly heavy on its own and separating them into their own pile, Shiro pulled what remained up over her shoulder, wincing slightly when the pain in her ribs flared up once more. "Osu! I can do this!" She assured herself after pausing for the pain. Once it subsided again she began her first trek back to the top.
---- Some unnamed amount of time later... ----
Shiro entered the vault for what felt like the hundredth time, sweat dripping from her brow and off her sweat-soaked clothes. "This... Is torture..." She gasped, wiping her hand across her brow in a poor attempt to remove some of the sweat that threatened to blind her as it dripped down over her face. Shiro stared at the final piece, the 25KG weight she'd first attempted to pick up. The girl noted, to her relief, that the weight was rounded. She would be able to roll it to its destination.
So she'd figured but realized her optimism may have been misplaced. Before her stood the final obstacle. Stairs, totaling maybe thirty at most. But each step meant she would need to push or lift the 25KG piece of terror by its full weight if she planned to get it to where it needed to go. She already felt completely exhausted, This final trek was not making her feel any less so.
One thing that seemed to have improved was the pain. With all the lifting and pushing up until this point, the pain she'd felt from her ribs had pretty much faded, overshadowed by the pain of her straining muscles. She'd managed three steps so far. Needing to take a breather with each step she progressed, Shiro made slow, arduous progress. A couple of times where Shiro nearly lost the weight completely, threatening to roll back down and negate the progress she'd already made.
With the last push Shiro managed to finally get the last piece up to its target destination. Shiro couldn't remember ever feeling as exhausted as she felt now. It felt very much like a training exercise of its own. If this wasn't part of the training that Mr. Rose had talked about... Shiro dreaded to even think about what she'd agreed to.
The phone rang for some time, but that did not stop the Arrancar from simply waiting. There was nothing to do until Shiro finished her task as it was and by the sounds of it, there was struggling. He wanted to call down the stairs and to give advice...but part of this whole ordeal was for the girl to adapt and learn. Had she taken the time to fully look around, she would have seen there were the proper tools to easily get the job done. Seemed she needed to learn this lesson the hard way...and Theocelese couldn't argue about there being a point in time he had to learn things in that manner. Those amounts of times numbered well beyond the present amount of fingers and toes shared between the human and Arrancar. Caesar answered, and for a moment there was silence. He didn't say anything, not for dramatic effect but...how did one just act all friendly when, as far as Caesar was concerned, Theocelese just up and fucking disappeared? A cold tremor went up his spine. He walked back outside, leaving Shiro to it.
"Good afternoon. I was wondering if you had anymore strawberry shortcake left for purchase?" It was the first thing that came to mind. No doubt his voice alone would echo back to him, and Caesar would now be the one to not say anything. Aside from that, there may not have been anyone who loved those god damn cakes more than Theocelese. Up until his disappearance...all of the pastries, cakes and sweets were bought from Caesar's bakery. While his was a close second, the Vizard's baking ability was equal to Theocelese's own cooking talent. The guy could make a mean cake, but he couldn't make a steak for shit. "Caesar. I need to speak with you about some urgent matters that have also risen. We will by shortly...and yes...I still want those cakes." Theocelese said, turning and to his amazement, watched as Shiro looked like she was about to double over from exhaustion. He walked back over to her, pointing at the things she'd taken out and disorganized. Covering his end of the phone, he said, "Now you must put it all back...and then strap the heaviest bag to yourself, we're going for a walk. I promise it will be worth the effort. Remember, with hard work and effort comes an equal amount of rewards."We'll be seeing you soon, Caesar." And then, Theocelese hung up. While he did help put all the gear back in the bags, as he said, the heaviest of the two bags were left for her. "If you're this tired from just carrying these things up the stairs, how do you think you will keep up with me once we get to sparring?" He said to not make fun or demean the girl, but to stoke embers and get her riled up.
There was an awkward silence the moment he picked up, normally Car would simply attribute this to a casual human tendency, it wasn't the first time someone called and took a moment deciding what they wanted. Still there was a strange sense of anticipation as he waited. Yeah we still got ple--, he caught himself mid sentence. That voice was all too familiar, warm and friendly but with a sense of authority behind it. There was almost no mistaking it but...
No it couldn't be, Theocolese had all but disappeared for god knows how long. Caesar had even gone so far as to abandon the bakery to search the vast Hueco Mundo deserts with Hidane for the man. For all their effort and strength they had still come up empty handed. Theocolese as far as Cae was concerned was gone.
Whoever this is, you're not funn--, he was cut off quickly by the voice at the other end of the line. His demeanor grew more serious this time as he sat upright, whoever this impersonator was, he knew Theo and he knew the relationship the vizard shared with the arrancar.
This smells like a trap, Eac chimed within his own subconscious mind. Im all too aware, Cae seemed to speak into the air, but whoever this guy is he's coming here.
Heading back into his kitchen the vizard approached an oddly slim rectangular cabinet from which he would retrieve his zanpakuto. Better to have and not need...
Returning to the front of the shop the cigars would quickly flip the sign from open to closed. He suspected the gotei, they were the only ones who could logically procure that kind of information and, if so, would more likely be coming for him.
Taking up his original position by the counter, the Vizard would simply sit, weapon leaning against his leg, and wait.
Shiro glared at Mr. Rose. Was he serious right now? Had he really just had her bring all this gear up here just to have her bring it all back? He even wanted her to make sure she carried the heaviest bag with her!? Shiro searched for any sign of sarcasm in his demand but the conviction in his voice only proved to her that he was being dead serious. Mr. Rose her foot, She'd probably be calling him Mr. Thorn by the end of this endeavor...
The first bag Shiro managed to push, pull, and eventually drag back down and into the vault. "Doesn't... doesn't he know girls are physically weaker than boys...?" Shiro groaned, putting down the first bag, Allowing herself to fall with it but catching herself on her knees before she could tumble down on top of it. "He could have at least started me out with something a little easier... isn't the proper way to build strength to start slow and work towards the final goal...?" the girl grumbled to herself, giving her lungs and muscles a chance to breath before heading back up.
Returning to the second, heavier bag she stared at it, pondering her options. Somehow or other she needed to get the thing onto her back, that was the only way she figured she'd be able to carry it. With as heavy as the bag was, she would have one hell of a time trying to carry it in her arms and friction from dragging it on the ground would also make things more difficult than they needed to be... She would be exhausted before she got ten feet with it...
Pulling the straps, Shiro tugged on the bag. No good... The bag was too heavy to just simply pick up, much to Shiro's dismay. Kneeling down, Shiro pulled up on the straps while keeping them as close to her body as she could. Pushing up from her knees, Shiro got the bag lifted up. Unfortunately her balance failed her, which caused both the bag, and Shiro to go crashing back onto the floor. Her left knee struck the floor hard as Shiro fell, causing her to curse. Words flew from her mouth that seemed a might more obscene than one would expect to hear coming from a sixteen year old girl. Reaffirming her position, Shiro tried again. This time keeping a check on her balance as she made the move to sit the bag on her back. Ignoring her now throbbing knee, Shiro pushed forward, beginning her weighted and slowed pace towards following Mr. Thorn...
With the Vizard now informed of their soon to be arrival, Theocelese stopped to watch the look of absolute bewilderment on Shiro's face. It was that kind of look that just screamed 'Mister, I'm going to slap the shit out of you'. Was she...starting to take her bag downstairs again? Somewhat confused, Theocelese stepped over to Shiro and ruffled the long strands of hair. The tumble and cursing didn't seem to help her already spoiling mood. "Other way, kid. I meant for the stuff to go back into the bag...Should have been more clear with my instructions. Give me the bag, I won't make you carry it right now. You may just carry your blade...and that is a nice one you picked out. I'd rather use the big one." Theocelese pointed to the overly-large and lengthy version of the very same weapon left to her own hands. Had he heard what may have been the beginning of a litany of excuse as to why she shouldn't have done what was told of her, the situation may have played out completely differently. The point in the endeavor was to keep a level of stress, pressure and demand on her. Not to build strength, not just yet, anyways.
"Lock up the place and when you're finished, catch up with me. I'd like to learn a bit more about you on our little walk, if you wouldn't mind. If there is anything about me you wonder about, please feel free to ask." With both bags slung over each shoulder, he gave Shiro a pat on the top of her head before letting her get some use out of the key in her possession. Theocelese hadn't strayed too far from the only open shutter in the complex, maybe a good ten feet or so. His attention seemed to be caught elsewhere and it looked as though he were staring off into space. It wouldn't have taken much to get the Arrancar out of his...whatever kind of spell he was experiencing, and his first reaction was to smile.
"Let's go." Taking his first step forward, he began to lead the way. From here to the bakery was...at least a good forty-five minute walk. This was more than plenty of time for Shiro to divulge whatever she wished about her self, as well as time to inquire about her newly acquired mentor.
Caesar sat for what seemed like an eternity, the scent of warm bread doing little to ease his mind. The store was quiet if only for the gentle ticking of a clock somewhere in the background.
No good being paranoid, he inwardly consoled himself but truthfully the vizard was puzzled. It was a routine day up until that moment, it was too easy to break his little dream of a bread shop, all it had taken was one mysterious phone call and he'd pretty much closed shop.
He could feel Eac's contemptuous laughter deep within his own mind. Oi pussy! If you're gonna pee your pants over a phone call you should let me take over for a little bit. Oh yeah, came the retort, the thought of cleaning up after you is soooo appealing right now.
Then man up, Eac's tone was a little harsher now, whoever this guy is, it's nothing we can't carve up real good.
As sadistic as it sounded the thought was comforting, bringing with it a strong resolve. Taking a deep breath as if to expel his fear, Cae would rise and enter his kitchen.
Returning with a plate of strawberry shortcake which he would place on the counter before returning to turn on a kettle and fetch a few cups and saucers. Enemy or not they would not accuse him of poor hospitality.
Shiro was confused at first when Mr.Rose lifted the bag from her back. Hadn't he meant for her to carry it the entire way? Was he training her or just testing her? She couldn't tell anymore, couldn't really make heads or tails out of what was going on right now. What she did know was they were traveling by foot. Shiro's earlier frustrations would quickly turn to gratitude when she realized just how far they were walking for.
Shiro gladly welcomed the fact that Mr. Rose hadn't forced her to carry the bag. The walk was a welcomed refresher compared to her earlier endeavor, though she grumbled inwardly when she noticed how the weight of both bags didn't seem to bother or hinder Mr. Rose in the slightest.
The walk started out awkwardly. Theocelese walked, she walked. Both were silent for a while but eventually Shiro's nerves broke the silence. There was too much free space during this travel and far too much she wanted to talk about for her to simply remain quiet. Shiro pondered what to ask first, the options were limitless. Nervousness built up and the girl opted to talk about herself instead.
"I think I get this spiritual thing... at least a little bit anyway." Shiro began, fiddling with the sheath of her new sword as she walked alongside Mr. Rose. "It's like there's this feeling built up inside of me that I never knew existed before..." Shiro motioned awkwardly, trying to visualize what she meant in a way that Theocelese could see. "I can focus on it and it becomes... tangible?" Shiro questioned, unsure if she were using the right words to describe what she was thinking. "I think I kinda know how Goku feels now when he does that thing where he powers up." Shiro glanced up at Theocelese, feeling slightly embarrassed at her use of obscure anime references.
"Though..." Shiro lowered her eyes to the path in front of her. "I wonder if I'm doing it right. I mean, I took out that hollow but it felt like I'd completely exhausted my spirit by using that move..." Shiro played through the motions she'd used before unleashing White Dragon's Breath
Shiro paused... thinking, stared at Mr. Rose as they kept walking. "You carry those bags like they're nothing to you..." Shiro complained, visibly pouting at the difference in seeming lack of effort Theocelese required in order to produce the same results she'd been struggling with. "How long will it take for me to get to that stage?" Shiro kept walking, not expecting any answers to her childish rants.
"Who exactly are you anyway? And why'd you give me this book?" Shiro stared at the thousand page book, The Illiad scrawled over its worn and weathered cover. "I think I read this once while I was in school... it was for some analytical project we had to do about poems..." The girl flipped the pages until they reached the back cover. "I... wasn't really interested so it didn't really make a lot of sense to me then..." Shiro admitted, turning the book over to look at the back. A weird thought crossed Shiro's mind, "Are you perhaps... a God?" Shiro looked dumbfounded, partly because she felt stupid for asking such a question, partly because if she were actually dead then things might make a fraction of a bit more sense than the thought of her just suddenly being able to see spirits.
"Where are we going exactly?" Shiro kicked a pebble that crossed her path, sending it skipping over the road and into a nearby gutter. "You haven't exactly told me that yet... does it have anything to do with training?" Shiro thought for a moment. She hadn't seen anyone in that large complex other than Mr. Rose. "Do you... live alone?" She inquired, switching gears. "You've gotta have at least have a wife right?" Or kids? Do you have any kids!?" Shiro brightened up at the thought of Mr. Rose being a family man, of him training his own kids to be strong like himself. She would like to see them, maybe even learn along with them while Mr. Rose trained them. Shiro was fired up, Things might be more interesting if she weren't being trained by herself.
Shiro paused her rambling thoughts again, keeping pace with Mr. Rose, but still losing herself in thought. "Why exactly do we only have two weeks? What are you going to be doing?" Thinking about it, Mr. Rose hadn't really mentioned anything other than the training with him wouldn't last. "Why don't I go with you? Then I can keep training with you. Shiro insensitively pushed the idea in Theocelese's direction.
It wasn't long after that Shiro's nose picked up the smell of fresh bakery goods. Despite the large breakfast she'd eaten earlier, the bag ordeal coupled with the long walk had done much to reignite the youngster's appetite. Shiro spotted the shop before noticing the sign that said [CLOSED]. "Can we get something to eat?" Shiro asked, thinking about sweet rolls and other confectioneries while pointing towards the bakery.
This happened to be a nice change of pace. For the longest time it felt as though he would be doing the majority of the talking. But to know what was on the girls mind was a good thing. The sharing of expression and thought were just as vital as skill, speed and strength. If fate designed then to cross paths, to fight together, then in the end there could be no hampering secrets between them. “You are somewhat correct. It is a sensation initially felt different from person to person. To harness and use it, I have learned come from ones will, resolve and emotions. As to who this Goku is...I’m unaware him. Maybe you can introduce us?” He couldn’t help but to keep the smile that cracked. “Think of your current strength like a sword being forged.it is just raw material ready to be used. The first step is to discover what kind of sword you are. In doing so, yes you will exhaust quickly. This is why when we have resting days it is imperative you be absolutely lazy as possible.” Wasn’t the exact way he wanted to word it, but maybe it’s help keep the girls mood from turning sour again. “I can carry these bags so easily not because I’m strong, but because there have been , and still are far heavier burdens to carry. You are not one, and never think of yourself as one.” Like before, theocelese reaches out to mess Shiro’s hair up.
”It is a good story,” he said about the book now. “Not all of it is true. Translation errors and time corrupt all ancient knowledge. Remember everything I speak and say, it might pertain to that very book. I will not tell you who I am, you must discover that on your own.” He paused, the smile giving way to a short bout of laughter. “No...I am no god. I may be related to one, however.” He spoke his mother’s nane earlier, one that would explicitly mentioned several times in the aged paper.
“We are going to see an old friend of mine. He is an...an outcast from where the Shinigami hail. A vizard, you remember my mentioning them, yes? He is the opposite of what I am. A shinigami-hollow hybrid. Caesar is a good man. he wanted to keep the place being a bakery a surprise. Despite the subject matter to come, theocelese found an excitement at the snack to come. It would be his first meal since they met. Whatever smile remained on his face was nothing short of a sad one. “No. I do not live alone. I will be taking you there, as there are no distractions of this world there. As for my wife and child...yes, I was married once. I showed you the wedding bands on the bridge. My daughter passed away just a few weeks prior to us meeting. My wife was taken from me two decades ago.” Theocelese could not be mad at the girl as she is just still in her youth. “She would have liked you, you know. My daughter Alexandra.” He”d been smoking off and on during the walk, but now as the throbbing l, stabbing sensation battered his psyche with the influx of a volatile temper, he was a venerable chimney. It was this moment he stopped, kneeling down to match Shiro’s height.
“When you read your book, you will understand so much more, dear child. The being who has tormented me for so long has the soul, the essence of my Sophia. I intend to murder this god and free her. You cannot go with me because it is not your fight, and your inexperience will only work against us. I have...a friend in the Soul Society, a shinigami who may yet help me find my dayghter’s soul. I go where I just, I fight who I need to, because the reunion of my family depends on it. You asked me how I carry all of this with ease earlier but I did not explain the answer fully. The burden I face now depends on my strength being absolute. No trivial thing as equipment should hold me down.” Even a man with such determination knows when his eords may be perceived wrong. His somewhst saddened demeanor lightened, and this was no mask or false emotion. He put s hand to Shiro’s shoulder now. “Having just lost your own family is why I will never abandon you. There is an old saying...Your pain, my suffering. Your suffering, my pain. Now, from the day you have learned everything you can from me and beyond, you are my family too. In my trials to come, Should I fall, I fail not just myself. I fail you too.”
The open heart moment came and went not too far from the bakery. He could smell the fresh loaves of bread and it stirred hunger in his gut. Updated n arriving and bearing witness to the closed sign, theocelese looked to Shiro. “Caesar will be here. When I depart I must have a proper replacement to teach you. This, delicious cakes and more are the reason why we are here. Remember your manners because I might not, I’m so hungry now I could eat everything. Shall we?” He asked Shiro, opening the door.
“Yasou!” He called in a light-hearted manner, but the golden eyes of the lion bore a level of severity that said more than just ‘we need to talk’
Cae stared at the clock for what seemed like hours. The minutes seemed to creep by and the suspense was like an annoying stench in the air. He'd quickly boiled some water and cut up the shortcake into manageable pieces, then simply stared at them for a moment before returning to his usual work. In his mind he would have to treat this as a trivial matter so as not to be thrown off mentally. The last thing he needed was Eac to take over, his insurance would hate him for sure if that were to happen.
The work seemed to help, as he moved about the kitchen preparing new dough and cleaning up ovens his mind seemed to iron out itself. That was until the he heard the doorbell ding and a hearty 'Yasou'bellow from the entrance. Drawing a silent breath the vizard would emerge from the kitchen to greet his guests.
Stopping just as he stepped out he stood, mouth slightly agape. Sure enough there stood Theocolese and with him a much younger girl, more than likely a high schooler. It was like seeing a ghost, which was dumb cos he was used to seeing them, more like a ghost of a ghost. For a moment Caesar wouldn't speak, he couldn't, it felt like an illusion and a part of him anticipated a blade through his back at any moment.
There was only one way he could confirm. Without saying a word the vizard would march up to the arrancar and proceed to slug him across the face with his right fist. The action itself would be tantamount to striking a moving train and the sharp pain that rattled Cae's knuckles would prompt him to shake it away.
Sorry about that, he said finally smiling, the tension immediately ebbing from his features. I just had to make sure it really was you.
Fucking hell, I think that hurt me more than it did him.
That was Theocolese in a nutshell, the man was a literal shield, an impregnable wall that few could pierce or break, taking hits was his bread and butter and would be the only way to distinguish him from any imposter.
The blow seemed to ease his doubts and in a moment the vizard was back to his normal self again. He had a myriad of questions but first things first he had guests to entertain.
Sit! Sit!, he half barked, motioning towards an empty table to both of them as he moved to put the tea and shortcake on a tray before moving to place it in front of them, I made some more just in case so eat as much as you want, I'm sure it's been a while since you had good shortcake.
In his scurrying, he'd totally ignored the girl Theo had brought with him. Glancing momentarily at her, she seemed to somewhat fatigued, like one who had just come out of performing some sort of laborious task.
Jesus Theo, I didn't you were into younger girls now, he teased, you're like 10 times her age at the very least.
Shooting her a brief wink the vizard pulled up a chair himself and sat down. He would allow the arrancar to do most of the introducing afterwards. He'd downplayed the look he saw on the arrancar's face earlier when he moved to punch him but he'd by no means forgotten. For now, at least, he would make sure they stuffed their faces before any meaningful conversation would be had.
"Erm... well maybe I could introduce you... though he's more of a fictional person than a real one you see..." Shiro felt even more foolish having thrown the name of a fictional anime character. Given how much older than her self Mr. Rose must be, he obviously wouldn't be one to sit around watching kid's shows. Shiro shifted the katana hanging by her side. "Like forging a new sword..." It made sense, a sword blade couldn't be tested or used if it were to never go through the forging process first. "I won't" Shiro smiled, pushing Mr. Rose's hand out of her hair, though she didn't really mind it. Despite what he said she still promised herself she would do her best not to become a burden to him.
"You're related to a god...!?" Shiro looked to Theocelese, bewildered amazement playing across her face before she looked back to the book. Her interest to discover that which she'd missed the first time drove her to want to read this old book once more.
"Yes I remember" Shiro nodded, though she still didn't really understand what all the differences between these spiritual races were exactly.
Shiro quietly listened to Mr. Rose's words. Family meant a lot to anyone, no matter who they were. The loss of such a thing could cut into the foundations of anyone's soul. Shiro felt bad for bringing up the topic of family, though she recognized the similarities in their circumstances. Though it was clear to Shiro that their aims would be different. She would need to do her best to find peace with what had befallen her parents. Mr. Rose however seemed to be searching for something more. Resolution perhaps? If any part of his family could still be saved, Shiro silently wished for him to be able to reach that goal. She couldn't help him, not now at least. She understood this fact very clearly based on her earlier struggles. The best way she could help Mr. Rose was by getting stronger so that perhaps, one day, she could help him by being there for him when he needed her help.
Shiro was about to protest Mr. Rose's actions because the store stated that it was closed but before she could say anything Theocelese burst through the door with a boisterous; Yasou! And that's when the Man inside the store walked right up to them. With zero hesitation in his movements the store owner slugged Mr. Rose square in the face. Shiro's face turned pale in surprise as she watched the spectacle. She was thankful the blow hadn't been aimed at her. The connecting sound of the man's punch seemed, to her, to have carried enough force behind it to have been able to cave Mr. Rose's face in or at the very least shattered his neck.
The man retreated after shaking his fist-hand, ordering them to sit while he prepared something for them. Shiro glanced at Theocelese, unsure if she should ask if he was alright or not. At this point Shiro wasn't sure which man was more scary. The man who'd just come out of nowhere to punch Mr. Rose with what seemed like all his strength, or Theocelese who didn't seem to have even been harmed even a little bit by the blow.
Shiro, hurriedly sat at the table the man had indicated. Even if Mr. Rose was here and had promised to protect her, she didn't want to get on this man's bad side by ignoring him.
The girl gave thanks for the food, taking a sip of tea before cutting a piece of the shortcake and putting it into her mouth. The cake was amazing and it showed on Shiro's face. She nearly choked though when the man suggested herself to be Mr. Rose's newest interest. "Wa-wa-w-wah...!? was all she could manage, needing to take a desperate gulp of tea in order to wash the lodged cake down her throat. Who is this guy? Shiro thought, taking deep breaths to recover now that the cake attack had ended.
'Yeah...I believe I deserve this.' Were the only things that Theocelese could think as Caesar strode on forward. To not have seen the body language which screamed, 'If you were a normal person your fucking jaw would be gone'. The punch came and went, not doubling the Arrancar over but it did cause his face to turn and a step backwards to be taken. A hand rose to his cheek, one eye closed. "I understand." Was the reply. The mood of the place shifted drastically now, and instantly he was ushered to sit and enjoy what was set out. Against the now voracity of his appetite, Theocelese ate like some noble at a proper dinner. No crumbs were spilled, and he hadn't slurped at all when drinking the bold flavors of the tea. After the first sip, he flavored the hot drink and almost groaned at how god damn good it went with his favorite dessert. Just as Theocelese was in the midst of ecstacy...Caesar said it. And the Arrancar choked on the bit of cake in his throat, thus resulting in little fleks of chewed sweetness soaked in tea to shoot out of his nose.
Both hands hit the table, and both eyes were closed. A humurous look of agitation formed on his face. "You're lucky I don't punch you as hard as you punched me!" Theocelese exclaimed through gritted teeth. "...At best, I'm old enough to be her father...Why do all of you people seem to forget that I'm only fifty years of age?!" That was when the Arrancar opened up one eye, his lips curling into a grin. A hand rose, and dropped on Shiro's head to mess up her hair again. "Only reason you bring this up is because you are...jealous, yes?" If Shiro was going to sit at the table of badasses in due time, Theocelese supposed she had to learn when all the other heroes of this age spoke only in jest. With a napkin, Theocelese cleaned the grossness from his nose and mouth. "All jokes aside...Shiro Inazuma, this is an old friend of mine. Caesar Caero. Caesar Caero, this is Shiro Inazuma, a newly appointed student of mine. It's been ages since I've had one, so I hope I don't mess this up too bad and lose her in Hueco Mundo." He shot a grin to Shiro, hoping she'd catch on to the joke faster this time around.
Now to get some revenge for that punch. Setting his fork on the plate, he slid it forward before standing up. "Excuse us Shiro. Caesar and myself some matters to discuss outside. Mr. Caero did mention to me on the phone you're welcome to box up whatever you like to bring with you. Especially the french loaves he just finished baking. As much as you want, all on the house." With that matter finally resolved, Theocelese nodded to the Vizard and headed back for the door. He couldn't exactly smoke in the establishment...and he was going to be burning through quite a bit of the peppermint scented sticks.
Pah!, Cae scoffed at the arrancars rib of his assumed jealousy, she's about as flat as a diet coke and as innocent as bambi. I will not be privy to your pedophile harems thank you very much. All of a sudden it was like the alliance was back together again, sure the numbers weren't all there but there was the feeling of camaraderie and togetherness, one which the vizard had long since forgotten. Joking aside he would give Shiro a cheeky, yet friendly smile. Any accomplice of Theocolese was a welcome friend.
Don't laugh, he seemed to almost get serious at the mention of her being under his tutelage, you know she'd be eaten alive by the cockroach monsters down there. He shot Shiro another cheeky glance to let her know he was kidding and she was in capable hands. Yet still, those very words sparking his own little training debacles with Ain, there was very little that compared to developing something and watching it grow from the ground up, no doubt Theo saw some sort of potential in this girl hence why he'd decided to take her under his wing.
The arrancar mentioned wanting to speak privately, to which Cae would respond. Moving back into the kitchen he would emerge with said french loaves and a stick of butter which he would set before Shiro. Eat till you're full. . . , he said as his tone immediately grew more ominous, I put a lot of work into that bread so if you don't. . . he trailed off before smiling once again. Obviously another joke, but from what he'd already seen of her, it would be fun to poke her and gauge her reactions. With that he would follow Theocolese outside.
We looked for you, you know, he said once he was sure they were out of earshot. Me and Hidane scoured the entire deserts and Las Noches we thought. . . .he paused for a moment as he recollected his journey with Dane throughout Hueco Mundo and Las Noches, the fights they had with the quincy they encountered there the forefront of most of his memories. We thought the quincy had gotten to you.
Anyway, he cut himself off almost cheerily, you're here and you probably have a reason for being here so what's up?
With all the hair messing, Shiro was beginning to think maybe she could use a haircut. Shorter hair would be easier to control and put back in order given the fact Theocelese seemed to like messing it up all the time.
"Nice to meet you" Shiro bowed when Mr. Rose introduced her to Caesar. The two seemed to get along quite well despite the earlier greeting at the door. Was it that these two were on such a level that they could joke around with each other in such a way? They also seemed to be trying to clue her into the jokes as well with their obvious gestures, which she could understand but at the same time it made her feel a bit lost for words or response.
"Can I really!? Shiro looked around the bakery, taking in all the delicious looking foods Theocelese had just told her she could pack and take with her. She figured she'd be polite though and not take too much, she didn't want to look greedy.
Hearing Caesar's words quickly turned around Shiro's thought process. Forget that, I'll take as much as I can physically carry. Shiro thought. Through her irritation at being called flat Shiro could feel the veins pulsing in her forehead. If she hadn't been afraid of Caesar's overwhelming physical strength she would have decked him as hard as she could right then and there. Caesar continued jesting but Shiro was lost in re-examining herself just to be certain. Sure they weren't large, but they were there. No one would be able to confuse her for a boy at least.
Caesar interrupted Shiro's personal physical concerns to give her some loaves of french bread. Shiro nodded respectfully. She could almost feel the beads of sweat drip down her back before Caesar left with Theocelese to discuss things that didn't concern her. He was scary, even if he was a good person, it was hard to think so, being her first time ever seeing him. She was sure she'd be able to catch on to the humor of these two eventually. For now she had a bakery to raid.
As soon as Caesar left the store Shiro set to work. Grabbing up the boxes, she quickly stuffed as much of the bakery goods as she could into as many boxes as she could carry. She could accept being treated like a kid and would do her best to understand the humor for what it was worth. But Shiro was not about to forgive Caesar for calling her flat. Cakes, cookies, more of the shortcake they'd enjoyed earlier, even a couple of parfaits. If she could fit it, it went into a box.
Caesar would understand even if he got upset at the amount of food she was taking. She was a growing girl after all.
As soon as Theocelese found himself out of the bakery, he immediately lit up a cigarette and took a few more steps to give Caesar a bit of breathing room from the smoke. He took to one of the nearby tables, far enough away from the door and took a seat. With several deep drags taken, Theocelese nodded and listened. "I know. Hidane spoke to me of this and warned me of their impending invasion before he too disappeared." The Arrancar hadn't said it, but the manner in which his eyes hardened could mean one or both things. The first, the other Vizard's disappearance wounded him greatly. Not physically, of course. And the second signaled some primal rage that was withheld. It wasn't aimed at Hidane, of course, but the implications of the man's own disappearing. To Theocelese...he thought the Quincy were the ones to be held accountable. "Cross and Solinex as well, though the latter of my two sons did find me in the Desert." He hadn't looked Caesar in the eyes since moving the conversation to the patio, but now those golden hues were boring into the Vizard in an almost pleading manner.
"I am here...for many reasons that shall make sense soon enough. I will tell you why I left in the manner I did, without word or trace. You deserve that much...and...and I'm sorry I did not reach out to you sooner. I also beg your attention to the girl, and I must ask of you the very thing I would never deny none of my brothers or sisters. I ask you to take up arms once again with...for... me." The last drag of his cigarette prompted the lighting of another one, and he didn't look like that was going to be changing any time soon. The time finally came, and while he would try to keep the tale short, the only proper place to start was at the beginning.
"When I still lived as a man, I was married with a wife and child. Someone took my wife from me, and on that night that is when my powers manifested themselves. I did not know who did it, but I hunted after Sophia's killer or killers. I ran into them. Daemons, I thought they were, large and savage and with heads of bone. I barely survived the encounter, but so did they, the three of them. My hunt continued, my revenge gone undone even in my own death. A little over a decade ago, I perished and was reborn twice thereafter. Once as a Hollow, and then again as an Arrancar at the hands of Aizen. His...trinket, did something. The traitor captain said his it could grant me my deepest desires and for most, it was simply power. That was not my case." By the time he finished the mere introduction to the story, he'd powered through at least two more cigarettes and was on the fourth.
"Time passed, I reclaimed Las Noches with my fellow Arrancar and set out to find those I could fight alongside when situations became dire. The Alliance. You, Seran, Hidane, Matrium, to name a few. I'd accepted my new life until I found her again...as a Hollow as well. An Adjuchas, she never evolved beyond further and I knew it was her because she spoke my name. What I knew to be my human name. Through time, I realized she was devolving into a mindless creature. Seran and I dug deep in research to find a way to combat this, but we discovered nothing. And then, one morning I woke to find a piece of parchment stating she had been taken. If I wanted her back, I would have to go and find her...and so I did without hesitation or thought.
I came to a city in Hueco Mundo...yes...an actual city, and although familiar to me somehow, I could not recall ever seeing it before. The gates opened and I was led to a fighting arena. The three who took my Sophia from me those years ago were there--they declared as such that it was their doing. Before I could begin to claim vengeance, I was forced to fight two opponents. The first, a demi-god from a time when civilization was still young. And the second?" Theocelese asked, his tone going flat, almost monotone if it were not for his heavy accent. "It was her. They...He...did something to her. Brain washed or mind controlled, I do not know. They made me kill her, Caesar...with my own two hands I killed my own wife." The words were spoken almost in a hushed whisper and his eyes had long since stared past the Vizard and were now glossy. There seemed to be no physical wound which could bring Theocelese to such devastation, but in this moment of sheer vulnerability, it showed he was far too wounded for far too long for anything like blades or magic to affect him. "Imagine searching for the only woman you have ever loved, a woman you saved from a vile fate, married and brought a new life into the world with, a woman you killed for...only to have to do such a thing." With a sharp inhale, the Arrancar continued.
"The three responsible for this travesty called themselves Hektor, Paris and Helen. Hektor and I dueled but he proved to be too much for me and I was saved by a small enclave of ancient deities. Through my own trials, I learned the very root of my soul...we both know some souls can be reincarnated hundreds, if not thousands of times. I am from this era of spear and shield, Caesar. Ask Shiro of the literature I have given her, you may be able to piece it together faster than she. With the aid of my benefactors, I returned to kill the despicable coward Paris with his bow and his whore of a woman, Helen. The Eldest among them, Hektor, fell to me soon thereafter." The Arrancar went silent, his eyes searching for something that was not there. "Solinex said he knew where to find me when Hueco Mundo turned from night to day. I absorbed the essence of those three and...awoke something in me. A power that I did not know existed...and when we are concluded here, I will show you." By now, half a pack came and went, and still the Arrancar did not stop himself.
"The old gods are real, Caesar. They are human, but immortal from time's desolation. It was by the will of one of them that I became a play thing. The Sun God, he has stolen objects of great power from his supposed kin and they desire those things back. Apollo, he is called, has my wife's being held prisoner and in due time, I am to leave to rescue her. This brings me to Miss Inazuma...She'll learn from me as much as she can until Fate calls for me. I would name you my successor in teaching her in my absence." There came a silence following this. A long one, to which now the Arrancar finally made eye contact again. He knew Caesar needed time to absorb and take all of this in."At a time like this, what I must ask of you...to leave this life of normality...it pains me to ask you to do this. It weighs heavily upon me that I must ask you to aid what is to be a future defender against tyrants like Aizen and the Quincy. This is the path I have intended for young Shiro, but she needs guidance after I am gone, Caesar...
Now more than ever, The Alliance must be reunited and rebuilt. This war with the Quincy is something you must endure without me, as all of creation depends on the blades of people like us to protect it." It is at this time that Theocelese free hand went to his pocket, and from it, a picture revealed. With crystaline blue eyes, platinum blond hair and a skin tone a tad lighter than Theocelese's own, it didn't take an idiot to understand this is the woman he intends to liberate. The picture slid towards Caesar, and that same hand rose to reveal the hole positioned where his heart once rested. "She is the missing element of my soul, Caesar. Vengeance--after all these fucking years will be mine, and while my wife will once again walk in this realm, she will do so as a widow. I know when the ancient powers grant her life, it means the end of my own....and so I ask you again, Caesar Caero. Will you guide Shiro as I would, and will you show her there is a future worth fighting for?"
It hadn't really sunk in how long Theocolese had gone for until the arrancar begun his tale. What a tale it was, one that seemed written directly out of some sort of crappy romantic comedy/thriller/action movie and yet Caesar could only listen as he leaned against a nearby rail for support. It was the arancar's way of unwinding, of releasing what ever it was that was pent up inside of him. As the story unraveled the vizard could only feel empathetic towards his companion, all this time he'd perceived Theo as a shield, an unmovable wall and yet here he was seemingly imploding on himself. Well that was a stretch but more than anything the arrancar's humanity showed right throughout every scenario, throughout every victory and even towards the end when he began to talk about Shiro.
When he'd finished there was a long pause in the air, a needed one at that as Cae had a lot to process. To leave this life of normality? the bakery? Everything he'd worked so hard to leave behind was now beginning to catch up with him. Far from being overwhelmed by it all Caesar seemed remorseful at the request, not because he didn't want to help his comrade, but because he knew just what kind of life he was stepping into. From deep within his soul he could feel the monster that was Eac stirring, having sensed potential if not future bloodshed. More than anything the thing that scared Caesar was himself, what he could become, what he had become in that pursuit. Yet here he was, Theocolese before him, a choice needing to be made.
Theoco..., he paused avoiding the arrancar's gaze, he would no doubt be accepting regardless of whatever internal problems. The thought of Theocolese dying was equally as scary as the thought of his inner demons for it meant that there would be no check to hold him in place. Theo's durability meant he could and probably would take everything the vizard had to dish out and then some, which essentially meant he could wear him down should Eac ever take control. With him gone meant no checks. . . .no restrictions. . . .no hindrances. The vizards hands trembled slightly at the thought before he steeled himself. Taking a deep breath he let out every fear, every doubt and every negative thought. The stakes were high and when they were you needed reliable friends.
. . .do you know what you're asking of me? the vizard spoke truthfully. She's a fucking pre-teen for god's sake Theo, she's barely prepared for male contact let alone watching everything and everyone she's ever strived to protect up and die on her.
Caesar found himself growing somewhat angry at the arrancar as he spoke, not because he would refuse, but because he knew the kind of toll living such a life could take. It was the reason he left the soul society and set up the bakery in the first place. You and I have been around for years, he continued, You know first hand what kind of horrors that does to one's psyche and we didn't even have the liberty of choosing. His manner seemed to be that of one scolding the other but in truth the vizard was simply searching for his own answer to the very questions he was barraging the arrancar with.
But you want me to create a monster with a conscience . . . ., there was no denying that, as she was now Shiro would be better off than if she gained strength. It was a privilege of the weak, to be easily forgettable, to be easily ignored. Far better that than to rise and watch everything around you crumble, to be lost in a world you thought you recognized. . . to be completely alone. His own jade irises would gaze piercingly into the arrancar's,. . . don't you think this world already has plenty?
The vizard drew in a deep breath, it was easy to get lost in his anger, but Theocolese was his friend and despite his emotions there was nothing he wouldn't do to help. Answer me this at least, he said breathing out all the pent up negativity.
Do you really think, regardless of what this girl has gone through, that gaining strength will help her. . . .or will it just help you?
POST IN THE PROFILE NOTIFICATION THREAD TO BE GRADED!
CBOX RULES
I. DON'T START/ENGAGE IN DRAMA.
II. DON'T ASK FOR GRADINGS.
III. RESPECT EVERYONE.
IV. NO BIGOTRY.
V. NO IMITATING PEOPLE.
VI. KEEP IT PG-13.
VII. NO ADS/LINKING OTHER FORUMS EXCEPT RESOURCE SITES
VIII. DON'T SPOIL NEW CHAPTERS.
IX. NO SPAMMING.
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XI. IF STAFF ASKS YOU TO STOP OR MOVE ON, DO IT.
XII. NO TROLLING/FLAMING.
