A dark figure sat in the Espada conference room, shielded from all eyes by a large shadow. The door slid open with a rumble as Take, slouching and nearly asleep, entered the room and sunk into his chair.

Take: Lord Kuraudo, you wanted me?

Kuraudo: Correct...

Silence ensued for a half minute before Take raised his eyebrows and spoke again.

Take: So... What's up?

Kuraudo: Three of our warriors are dead...

The door opened again as Seshen entered quickly and knelt.

Seshen: I fear this is my doing, Lord Kuraudo.

Kuraudo: So... What plans have you to remedy the situation?

Seshen: My very deepest apologies, Lord Kuraudo. It shall not happen again. However, under my command are three newer, more powerful arrancar, plus Kesh, Shike and Neng, my three strongest Fraccion, still live.

Take: You know, Seshen, you've always been careless. I'm thinking you enjoy giving us Espada a bad name.

As Kuraudo spoke up, Seshen gave Take a look of pure venom.

Kuraudo: Silence, Take. This... Crusade of ours has been stationary for quite a while now, and I would greatly enjoy seeing it's progression. Gentlemen, to do so, we must locate the laboratory of the Hougyoku's inventor, Kisuke Urahara.

Silence followed this statement for several seconds, time enough for the two Espada to take a sip of the tea in front of them.

Kuraudo: If we succeed in this, we can begin to either attempt to remove it from this place, or forge another.

Take: You've gotta be kidding. Listen, I don't know how psyched I am about traipsing into Seretei and popping the shinigami on the chops.

Kuraudo: Don't be daft, Take. We shall draw them out, and spread them throughout Hueco Mundo and Soul Society. Once you do, Seshen, you will be the one to infiltrate the laboratory and collect this data we require.

Seshen: The whole of squad twelve is built around the lab. What do you suggest I do?

Kuraudo: Seshen... You were ranked third for a reason. Do what you must, but try to remain as discreet as possible. Do not release your resureccion.

Seshen: You speak as though you suspect I would need to, Lord Kuraudo.

Kuraudo: Then I shall explain my plans to you...

-End-

{The White Moon is struck by the Lightning}

Captain Aosu: She continued to stare at Kakura, infuriating him further.

Captain Kurotsuki: "I knew I couldn't trust you! You aren't even worth my time." He was seething with anger at this point, struggling to keep his rage contained. "I'll find Teiko, and ask him myself, and this time, I will get answers."He flash-stepped away, attempting to track Teiko's spiritual pressure.

Captain Aosu:(she sighed) "You do that. He won't tell you anything. He made a deal, and I could tell by the look on his face that he won't betray me."
________________________________

Teiko: He was watching quietly, waiting for his lieutenant to arrive when he sensed a large amount of spiritual pressure. He turned to his left, and saw Captain Kurotsuki standing there looking particularly angry. "Why hello, Kakura." he said, trying to sound as friendly as possible. He sensed that he was still angry, or rather, energetic about their earlier conversation.

Kakura: "Hello." he said, shifting his Haori. "Teiko, I need answers. Why were you there, at Sekhmet's estate?" He sounded as though he was a scared child.

Teiko: He looked strained, like he had done the work of a thousand and one men. "I'm not in the mood to discuss this, Kakura. It isn't any of your concern." he said, shifting his gaze back to the Rukon district.

Kakura: "I don't trust her. I find her unfit to be a captain, as do others. Why? Why do you trust her?!" He asked, his voice rising.

Teiko slowly turned back toward Kakura, his eyes scaling him up and down. "That is none of your business." Teiko said sternly. "It has nothing to do with you, Kakura. So I suggest you get a move on. You have work to do, like the rest of us." He finished by flash-stepping to a lower part of the Rukon District.

Kakura stood, barely managing to contain his rage. He turned, and slowly began looking for Teiko once more, even more determined. He spotted him, giving orders to his Lieutenant on the other side of the crater. He flash-stepped to him again, and grabbed his shoulders. He had secured him in an iron grip. "Tell me." His eyes were piercing daggers that tore into Teiko.

Teiko began to wriggle his way out of Kakura's grasp. "Let go of me. I told you already, it's none of your business!" Teiko yelped as Kakura dropped him. He landed awkwardly on his ankle, and glared at him.

Kakura: "You trust her now? WHY!?" He screamed now, at everything. "She can't be trusted. You can't be serious, Teiko!" he said, softening his gaze.

Teiko: "Stop, Kakura. You're embarrassing yourself. We may be friends, but I can't share everything with you." He turned and walked away, returning to his Lieutenant.

Kakura knew they were hiding something, and he was determined to find out what it was. He turned his back to Teiko, and cast one last glance over his shoulder. Teiko was facing him, overseeing the construction of the Rukon District. Teiko looked up, and locked eyes with Kakura, his gaze softening. Kakura smiled under his breath, feeling reassured. He flash-stepped away, thinking about ways to apologize to him later on.
_________________________________________­___­___­___

Sorry about not posting the other day. lol, I was really busy, then my dad sent me on a wild goose chase earlier today, so yeah... Well, at least it's up now. =)

Awesome post, Link. :)

Great work mate.

Thanks guys. =)

Great post, man!


Seshen and Take left the meeting room quickly, their steps loud on the stone bridge. Behind them were three other arrancar; Shike, and two of Take's fraccion, both of whom were very short. As the two Espada walked, they discussed their strategy.

Seshen: I'd much rather you not come to soul society with me, Take.

Take: Aww, c'mon... We're luring the most of them to this hellhole, aren't we? Why do I have to keep 'em busy?

Seshen: You say that as though you think it would be merely up to you... Do not forget that Gyro will be assisting you, and that you only need to hold them off for a moment.

Take: So... How do you propose we get in?

Seshen: Shike, of course.

Take: Hmm? Him?

Take pointed his thumb over his shoulder in the direction of Seshen's fraccion.

Seshen: Correct. Shike's resureccion, Clonico del Cuerpo, is a unique one. He can trace an opponent's reiatsu and adopt a like form.

Take: So... How's that gonna help us?

Seshen: First, he would need to find an item recently touched by the individual, then begin to give false messages and orders to the Shinigami. However, we must avoid sending too many Shinigami to Hueco Mundo to avoid suspicion, and we cannot send away the fourth or twelfth squad's Captains.

Take: Why do they need to stay?

Seshen: Squads twelve and four are always the last to be called to action. This time through will be no exception.

Take: So, how many Captains were you planning to send here?

Seshen: Hmm... Around half.

Take: Half, eh? You think me and Gyro can handle 'em?

Seshen: You will have a large group of hollow to aid you.

Take: Alright, that's good with me.

Seshen: Then I shall leave. Shike, come.

The arrancar hurried to it's master's side.

Seshen: You will go first. Come back to get me when you have split them up.

Shike: Of course, Seshen-sama.

With that, the fraccion opened a garganta to Soul Society.

Seshen: Observe, Take. This is the beginning of the end.

-End-

Nice post Zord. :) So I guess we'll get some action now.

(Close Friends)

Kakura was found by his sister. He was sitting on the roof of a building staring in to space, misty eyed.

Kakura: (He was still staring into space) Mikazuki?

Mikazuki: (She appeared next to him, smiling broadly) Well, you're still as sharp as ever...(She noticed his less than amused face) What's wrong? (She sat next to him)

Kakura: (He sighed and put his head in his hands) Well, I know somethings going on between Teiko and Aosu, but I can't get them to say anything. (He stared back into space) I even went so far as threatening Aosu...heh...She got me so riled up (He smashed his hand against the roof tiles, cracking the tiles, his eyes started to water, not from pain, but shame) I can't believe I lost it the way I did. That makes me a worse person than Aosu in my book.

Mikazuki: (She pulled her brother towards her and hugged him) Hey now. I haven't seen you this close to breaking down in a while. (She let go of him and stood up) Well I have an appointment with two friends, and I suggest you come along.

Kakura: (He rubbed his eyes on the sleeve of his haori) Well I'd better come as you would drag along anyway. (he smiled)

Mikazuki: (she smiled back) Well I don't think it'd be good to keep them waiting any longer.

They shunpoed off together.

********

They arrived at the tea room. Yua Honoka was waiting for them.

Yua: Well Mikazuki, you actually decided to show up then. (she caught sight of Kakura) And you dragged your brother along eh. (She walked past Mikazuki) What's happened then Kakura? You only ever come here with your sister if somethings bugging you. (She smiled)

Kakura: (He looked away, he always had a soft spot for Yua)I don't really want to talk about it.

Yua: (Sigh) Stubborn as always I see. Well we'd better get inside before Neshura orders food.

Kakura: (He shook his head as he watched his sister and Yua skip inside joyfully, chatting away as usual) I'm going to need a lot of Sake to forget today. (He followed them inside. Trying to drown his sorrows for tommorrow)

Sweet!! Nice postings guys:)

Thanks. I also think you can write about their little meeting in the tea room. After all, last time was interupted by Teiko.

I'll get to work on it!

I have an Idea. :P It's called Kudokai - in other words, a Hollowfied Bankai.It's different than just putting on the mask when in Bankai, but you use it at the same time, and gain new powers.(Google Translate) It looks really cool(in my head), so I'll get to work making a pic of it. In the meantime, can't wait to read your post Silverain. =)

Name: Hideaki Nayuhoko

Age: 137(Looks to be about 30)

Gender: Male

Height: 5"9

Eyes: Dark blue

Hair: Short black hair

Position: Lieutenant of squad 12

Personality: Hideaki is a very quiet individual. He does not like getting involved in other peoples problems, and hates confrontations. His appearance is fairly average, except for a large burn mark on his right arm, which was given to him when he tried blocking a cero with his arm, and nearly had it completely destroyed.

Zanpakuto: Fruhaedas

Release command: Relish in your offerings, Fruhaedas

Bankai: Fruhaedas Mashuchev

Thanks Link! It took a while but its looong! Hope its okay!

[Mad Tea Party]

The four captains all converged inside the little tea room where they would normally meet at in a quiet corner of the restaurant. The small wooden table seated the twins on one side, Yua and Neshura on the other. Above them painted on the wall, was the old brilliant mural that was almost like another friend joining them. They never seemed to run out of things to talk about once they were settled and called for a server. They’ve been here plenty of times and they did not need to look at the menus. Almost like she read their minds, their usual waitress came zipping out of the kitchen with a full tray in hand.

Waitress: “Ah, hello again my Captains!” she greets them with a big smile as she sets down their orders in the correct spots. “It was so sad that you missed out last time, so here’s your fresh Gyokuro Captain.” She handed Neshura her beloved beverage and she smiled gratefully in thanks. “Captain Honoka, your Sencha! And Captain Kurotsuki, your Kukicha…. Oh my, Captain Kurotsuki! Did your sister invite you along?”

Kakura: “That’s one way of putting it.” he chuckled lightly as he looked sideways at his sister. Mikazuki playfully nudged him with her elbow.

Waitress: “So is it the usual this time?”

Kakura: “No, make it a double please.” He corrected while rubbing his brow with his hand.

Waitress: “O-key do-key!” she chirped as she scribbled his order on a notepad, then she recites her lines even though she knows the answer. “Does everything look good to you, would you like to try anything else?”

Yua: She finishes the play. “Everything looks great, thank you!”

Waitress: “Splendid!” she looks to Kakura, “I’ll bring your drinks right out and your food will be ready in just a few minutes!”

Neshura: “Thank you! But you can take your time,” she points around all the captains as she explains. “We need to catch up!” The waitress nods and bustles on straight to kitchen anyways. “I like her, the woman’s like a bee!”

Mikazuki: “With all the business we bring her she has to be on her toes!” she smiles as she sips her lightly sweet green tea.

Kakura: “I surprised that you three haven’t drunk this place dry yet.”

Yua: “Are you saying we have a drinking problem?” she teased. “Because I’ve noticed that you are the only one who buys the alcohol.”

Kakura: “Only when there is a need for it I do.” he smirked. He caught Mikazuki looking at him from out of his peripheral and his smile went away.

Neshura: “Well I’m not ashamed of my passion for tea! Especially if the tea is Gyokuro!” she takes a big gulp from her cup and gently sets it down with satisfaction. Just then the waitress comes back with Kakura’s sake.

Waitress: “There you are,” she turns to face the whole table, “the food is almost ready!” and off she goes with a wave to serve her other customers, but not before Kakura said a quick ‘thank you’ to her.

Mikazuki: “So, did you guys feel that strange hollow energy too?” She spoke up trying to focus on a different topic.

Yua: “It was all strange how it appeared suddenly and then vanished so quickly like that.” She answered after taking a drink from her soothing green tea. The thought sent a faint shiver down her spine.

Neshura: “I know! What was that about? How come no one saw the thing?” Her voice raises a little at the excitement each question brought.

Yua: “Yes, and for it to not be detected like that makes me wonder if it had others with it as well…”

Mikazuki: She shakes her head mystified. “Don’t have a clue and the power it emitted in that short amount of time was extraordinary to say the least!” Both captains nodded at her statement. Kakura all the while, listened silently to their conversation as nagging thoughts turned over in his head. He took a swig of his warm sake to try to wash them away.

Neshura: “Let’s do a 180 and talk about something a little lighter!” she suggested. “I don’t want an upset stomach before the food gets here.”

Mikazuki: “Like what?”

Neshura: “Like a little gossip I heard today!” She wiggled her eyebrows at her mischievously.

Yua: “You know you can’t always believe everything you hear, Neshura.” She chimed in.

Neshura: “Well I get my info from a reliable source.” She grew a knowing grin.

Mikazuki: “Oh No!” Her face turns pink.

Neshura: “Oh yes!” she laughs.

Mikazuki: “I am going to kill him!” she growls while clenching her fist.

Kakura: “Now I’m absolutely going to be ordering more drinks!” he managed to laugh.

Mikazuki: “Shush you!” She poked him in the face with her finger. “It is official: ‘Quidel is a dead man!’”

Neshura: “So it’s true then?” she raised one eyebrow.

Yua: “That Quidel is a dead man yes, but you can’t go by rumors.” She looked at the fiery eyed Mikazuki for confirmation.

Mikazuki: “Whatever he told you was a lie, I promise you that!”

Neshura: “Awe man! But hey, there’s nothing wrong with admiring someone for their talents,” she smiles as goes to take a sip of her half finished cup she says. “Don’t you worry yourself about it Mikazuki!” She lets out a sigh of relief.

Neshura: “Especially since one of his talents is being super cute!” She mumbled under her breath.

Yua: She covered her mouth and coughed as she swallowed her tea, then swat Neshura in the arm. “I can’t believe you!”

Kakura: “You don’t know how to quit, huh?” he yelled over Mikazuki’s angry moans. Neshura shook her head as she hid her face behind her cup.

Neshura: Giggling, “Nope!”

Yua: “Look the foods here!” She smiled trying to distract them but failed miserably. As the plates were handed out the waitress kept giving Mikazuki worried glances but didn’t say anything. They thanked her and she bowed then hurried back to the kitchen.

Once they began eating however she seemed to calm down a little though she did stab her squid to death with her chopsticks.

Kakura: He hears the door jiggling open and looks over to the entrance of the teashop and his eyes widen. “Oh boy…”

Yua: “What’s wrong?” she swivels her head to follow his gaze. She quickly turns back and attempted to distract her but it was too late. She saw him.

Mikazuki: “You!” She tries to get up but Kakura stops her. “Let me go!”

Quidel looked over at their table after hearing her outburst. He waved and started to make his way over.

Quidel: “Hey guys whats going on?” he asked in his easy going fashion. "Mind if I joined you?..." His question was left hanging as he came about half way there and he noticed that Kakura had a death grip on his sister’s shoulder while she shot daggers at him with her eyes. He stopped immediately and backed away. His once tranquil amber eyes were beginning to grow wide in his panic.

Mikazuki: “You better run! Or I’ll come over there and- hey!” He was making a bee line to the exit, but before he walks out he turns and looks back to her face in bewilderment. “You know what you did!”

Quidel: "I'm innocent I swear!" He denied, but he quickly gave it away when he locked eyes with the now snickering Neshura and frowned. Mikazuki jumps up suddenly loosening her brother’s grip on her and she bolts out after him. Quidel ducks quickly out the door just in time to avoid her as she tears after him and follows him outside.

The silence after they left was loud in their ears as the other patron’s looks back at them in the corner under the pretty mural.

Kakura: “Check please!” he has to go stop her before she does something rash. “See you later!” He gets up to pay his bill and heads out leaving Yua and Neshura alone at the table yet again.

Yua: “You didn’t tell anyone else did you?”

Neshura: “Of course not this was the first time I mentioned it!”

Yua: (sighs) “Good! Can you imagine if word had reached ‘you know who’? ”

Neshura: “Now that would be a stupid thing to do, thank goodness I’m smart!”

Yua: Smiles and shakes her head. “At least we got to drink our tea this time!”

LOL I love it!! X3 Hilarious =) BTW, do you think Kudokai is a good idea?

Its a cool idea! You should try to make it be a new discovery one of them makes or something like that:)

Alright then. =) I'll write the post as soon as the line-art for the pic is done! :3

Oh and thanks by the way!

Well, you got Mikazuki's character down to a tee on this one. Good one Silverain. I actually found it hard to contain my giggles.

Captain Sairentosukai: (his deadening expression sends chills down the spines of new recruits, as he quietly observes them).

Lieutenant Shukketsu: (she keeps a watchful eye on her captain, waiting for some sign of interest). We’ve been here for quite some time, and yet, nothing. You promise that’d I’d get to test out some recruits! (she smiles widely, boasting a cheerful expression).

Captain Sairentosukai: I certainly didn’t allow you to accompany me so I could listen to your senseless chatter, Lieutenant Shukketsu. Remain calm, I am certain I will eventually spot a definitive recruit. At the moment, however, I see nothing interesting. With time, however, comes insight.

Lieutenant Shukketsu: Pft…(she scoffs at his words. Drowning in her boredom, she managed to locate Captain Korrotasu and lieutenant Nayuhoko. She grins softly, hoping to preoccupy herself).

Captain Korrotasu: Good evening, Captain Sairentosukai (his words slide through his wide grin, his eyes beaming with excitement).

Captain Sairentosukai: (he glances at him quickly, acknowledging his fellow captain) What a coincidence, Captain Korrtasu. Here I am, inspecting recruits, and you so happen to be doing the same. Although, one may assume you’re hoping to have a friendly discussion. You’re eager to make friends with your fellow captains, am I correct?

Captain Korrotasu: Ha ah aha (his grins maintains an unnatural hold). You are quite perceptive, Captain Sairentosukai. Why aren’t you running squad twelve instead of me?

Captain Sairentosukai: I find scientific endeavors to be rather insignificant. However, I have recently learned that science, and all its glory, is your life essence. (he looks at him blankly) I don’t quite understand your motivation, Captain Korrotasu.

Captain Korrotasu: Well, to be honest (his hand slowly running through his hair), many of my experiments aren’t as fruitful as I’d like them to be. But I can appreciate any investigation, really.

Lieutenant Shukketsu: (she inches herself closer to Lieutenant Nayuhoko). Say, you’re fairly new, aren’t you?

Lieutenant Nayuhoko: Yes, I am (he says with some level of discomfort).

Lieutenant Shukketsu: (she flirtingly touches his arm with her finger) So, what happened to your arm, Nayuhoko?

Lieutenant Nayuhoko: (he pushes her hand away, distancing himself) It doesn’t matter. Has your captain found any new recruits?

Captain Shukketsu: Who cares! (she slides herself closer to him, using her trademark beauty to arrest his attention) Why don’t you and I go get some lunch, lieutenant? Bring your captain, too (her green eyes glowing, excitement slowly spreading across her face).

Captain Korrotasu: (he whispers in her ear) you’re quite smitten, I see. I guarantee the attraction is mutual; he is just a bit shy.

Captain Shukketsu: Captain Korrotasu, you flatter me.

Captain Korrotasu: A talent I didn’t realize I possessed (he eloquently delivers his words, his deep voice drowning out background noise. He is poised and well-mannered, visible in both his appearance and articulation). Captain Sairentosukai, I am curious, where are the other captains? I haven’t had an opportunity to visit with me? (His grin widens, his eyes narrowing) After all, it is important that we understand one another. That is the foundation for great leadership and camaraderie

Captain Sairentosukai: I’m afraid I don’t participate in the incessant gossip and conversation the other captains are so fond of. I appreciate more solitary commitments.

Captain Korrotasu: Oh? Well, that certainly isn’t any fun? And here I thought you were much more lively than that…(he continues to grin). Is the Captains’ club difficult to get into? I can assure you, if I am accepted, I will expedite your approval (he abruptly turns to his lieutenant). Let’s go, Nayuhoko. We need to find a suitable method for becoming a member of such an elitist group.

Lieutenant Nayuhoko: (he displays no visible shift in emotion) …alright. I’m not certain of the club to which you are referring.

Captain Korrotasu: Goodness, you need to accept humor more effectively (still boasting a grin).

Captain Sairentosukai: (he watches the two as they leave, his eyes scaling them). Wasteful.

Lieutenant Shukketsu: May I ask when I am going to have fun?

Captain Sairentosukai: (he glances at her quickly) In due time. Try and be patient.


Captain Aosu: (she watches Captain Seishin train, her eyes watching his every movement). You’re rather sloppy.

Captain Seishin: What?! That’s…

Captain Aosu: …I am simply saying what I see, Captain Seishin.

Captain Seishin: So, when are you going to educate me on those arcane techniques you mentioned?

Captain Aosu: I never said “arcane techniques.” I simply said that it is important to begin discussing the ultimate method for attaining both power and respect. Those are two things you so desperately want and deserve!


Captain Seishin: (he smiles, placing his sword in his sheath) Great! So, ugh…(he scratches his head) what is this “method?” And why won’t you teach me techniques?

Captain Aosu: Nevermind that! The method, oh, that is private. (she pulls him closer, walking beside him, speaking softly. Her eyes express the exciting of her forbidden words).

Captain Seishin: (he eagerly receives her wisdom and his facial expression takes a dramatic shift). Wh…what?! You have to be kidding me, Captain Aosu? THAT IS ABSOLUTE…(she glares at him, her eyes full of fury).

Captain Aosu: It may appear rather dramatic and somewhat deceitful, but it is important, especially for you. I want you to grow, Captain Seishin. I believe you could surpass even me! I relish such power, the potential is inspiring (her grin vanishes, her expression much more stern). It won’t be a simple task, but you’re about the only person either capable and courageous enough.

Captain Seishin: It sounds…

Captain Aosu: Monumental, I know.

Captain Seishin: Do you have this much confidence in me?

Captain Aosu: Would I waste my time otherwise? I’m no fool, so do not insinuate as much.

Captain Seishin: Forgive me…but I am still rather confused.

Captain Aosu: I’m not surprised, Captain Seishin (she regains her smile, her words becoming more energetic) It is the last measure, and it will earn you the greatest respect, especially among Captain-Commander. He and I have known one another for centuries, I know him well.

Captain Seishin: I was unaware of your history?

Captain Aosu: He’s not one to divulge his entire history. He’s secretive…more than you’ll know (she sets her hand on his shoulder, pushing him to the side). I’m beginning to think you’re not committed?

Captain Seishin: No, I am. I’m just concerned, that’s all.

Captain Aosu: Don’t be. Allow me to worry about the details, you simply practice and do as I say so you can become stronger (her eyes glisten in the sun, her hair blowing in the breeze).

Captain Seishin: (he stares at her while she gazes into the distance. He acknowledges her timeless beauty, and realizes that most people haven’t seen this side of her. He knows he has misjudged her, and his mouths quivers, searching for words). I’m sorry I thought so harshly of you.

Captain Aosu: You need not worry, Captain Seishin. You’ll soon discover that in the end, your opinions were rather trite. In life, sometimes we must forsake our petty judgments. Regardless, in lieu of a victory, all that was before dissolves away. Words are merely that.

Captain Seishin: (his face scruntches, his mind trying to find meaning behind her words) You know…sometimes you can be very cryptic.

Captain Aosu: I’ve been told that same thing before. I have always found that statement to be ironic.

Captain Seishin: (he smiles and laughs) If only they could see this side of you, Captain Aosu. They’d appreciate you like I do.

Captain Aosu: Oh, I am sure they will see my true colors eventually. They can’t ignore them for long.

Captain Seishin: Well, Captain Kurotsuki really dislikes you, so I can imagine he’ll be resistant to change.

Captain Aosu: Oh, if he doesn’t come around, we will have the others, right?

Captain Seishin: Yep. I think Captain Honoko appreciate you more than others.

Captain Aosu: Yes, she is so kind ( she smiles). Now, let’s begin developing how you’ll achieve our final goal.

Hah. Well There are about three Captains who harbour distaste for Captain Aosu, so she'll need to do something monumental to change their perception of her. No offence of course mate. Nice passage by the way.

...okay?

Captain Korrotasu: (he calmly walks into the Shinigami Research and Development Institute) Tell me, how long did you plan on disguising your presence? Better yet (he peers from the corner of his eye, his grin widening), what made you think you’d be successful?

(From inside the shadows a man slowly uncloaks his presence)

Josta: (he adjusts his glasses, staring at him) You have become captain of squad 12, I see (his body begins to quake). You...you disgust me.

Captain Korrotasu: Oh?

Josta: You didn’t deserve it.

Captain Korrotasu: Apparently we cannot indulge on small-talk. We’re getting right to the point. Despite your bitterness toward my promotion, it won’t change anything.

Josta: It can change…

Captain Korrotasu: (his grin holds strong against Josta’s intimidation, growing wider even) You’ve become quite audacious, Josta. Not only have you unlawfully entered my domicile, but you’ve implied violence.

Josta: Implied? I meant to be up front with it!!!!! (he screams, unsheathing his blade, charging at Captain Korrotasu. Despite his speed, he completely misses him. Josta looks behind him, Captain Korrotasu standing calmly, his hands to his side). I didn’t even see you move…

Captain Korrotasu: Well, now you see why I was awarded captain of squad 12 and not you. You’re inferior (his voice has a deep sophistication, his words rolls of his tongue gracefully). I can see why you’re still awfully bitter. After all, this was your life, it was your passion. Your only dream in life was to rise to the ranks of captain, affording you ample research opportunities. It is a shame, but I can provide you some degree solace. The tension generated by other captains is quiet uncomfortable sometimes. You wouldn’t appreciate it, trust me. Be happy where you are now.

Josta: I AM NO WHERE! YOU TOOK EVERYTHING FROM ME! YOU AND…(he abruptly stopped speaking, his body continuing to quiver)…(his eyes inch to his left, visibly focusing on Captain Korrotasu).

Captain Korrotasu: You’re all shaken up, this much is obvious. Do you feel the difference, though? Earlier you were much more preoccupied by your anger and frustration but now you are having a difficult time watching the life slowly drain from your body. Helplessness can be one of the most destructive forces. That is why science is so rewarding. Man will forever search for answers, never achieving any true end. As long as life is infinite, so too shall be the quest for knowledge. You lost sight of your true purpose, that much is certain.

Josta: (his eyes scan Captain Korrotasu’s face. Inner-monologue: That smile….that SMILE! How can he…how. HOW CAN HE SMILE SO MUCH! WHY IS HE SO HAPPY?! WHO IS HE? WHAT IS HE?) WHY MUST YOU ALWAYS SMILE!!!!!!!!! YOUR SMILE IS MADDENING! STOP! STOP! STOP! I CAN’T TAKE IT ANYMORE!

Captain Korrotasu: (he smiles wider) Luckily, you don’t have to. (it is revealed that he ended Josta’s life without his blade and with a swift Byakurai. Josta has a massive wound in his chest, the blood oozing from the gaping void).

Josta: I hate you…so…(he collapses, the life draining from his eyes).

Captain Korrotasu: Someone please clean this mess up…(he glances at an officer). It'd be much appreciated. I have some work to attend to.

Well, it seems that Captain Korrotasu has a dark side to him. What a way to finish someone off though.