Life Can Be Confusing [closed]

It was a dark and cloudy day, and there was a certain level of humidity in the air. The combination made it quite obvious that the chances of rain were high. There was a cool breeze blowing through. The weather seemed like it was going to rain, but it was fairly calm at the same time. If it rained, it might rain hard, but it wouldn't be enough to be considered a storm. People who were fine with getting a little wet could go on about their day as usual.

One such being, was Snopy Saika. He himself always enjoyed the rain, he personally felt he functioned better in it. He felt that being around water aided him in gaining clarity of thought, and a certain creativeness. In essence, his mind functioned above regular capacity in rain, which was a scary concept for anyone who knew how smart he already was. Even without rain, people had called him a genius.

He looked as he usually did. His blonde hair went down to, and stopped at, his shoulders. Compared to the dark lighting, his eyes lit up in a way. His left eye being a bright pink, his right purple, they almost seemed to glow. Though that was just because they were such a bright color around all the darkness. The Shinigami stood at 5'10 and had a lean build, so he wasn't small, but he wasn't large either. On his right hip, was his Zanpakutō. His Shihakusho had recently been replaced, as the old one had been damaged in a mission. However, there was still his left sleeve missing from it.

Spoiler:

Snopy had actually intentionally ripped the sleeve off of this Shihakusho. It was sort of a style he had grown accustomed to. He remembered when he had first gotten the look. He had been training with Kanna when she blew off part of his sleeve with a spell. Rather than leaving the remnants dangling around, he ripped off the rest of the sleeve. After the fight, he hadn't gone to replace his Shihakusho, for reasons he still wasn't quite sure of. Did he just like how it looked? Or was there some other reason he was not consciously aware of? He told himself it was because he liked the look, though he wasn't even sure himself.

Around his neck, was something he didn't usually wear. Yet, after a long night of reminiscing, he had decided to wear it. It was a necklace, with a small blue stone at the end. It was something Snopy had kept with him at all times, but he usually kept it very hidden. Kabuto, a man he had encountered in the past with super-human senses, had probably even missed it it was so well hidden. The necklace was something he had received on his 18th birthday, from his sister. A tear-drop fell from his face as he thought about it. That day, he had returned to see his family, and he almost hadn't gone. He had a lot of important missions to focus on. Yet, he went and received the gift. At the end of the day, he left his home. It was the last time he saw his family before he died.

Snopy was doing his best to hold back his tears, but a few did escape. If he had chosen not to return, he would have never seen them. He would never had gotten this, the last memory of his loving little sister. It killed him knowing they were all probably dead, they'd have to be Shinigami or something to have lived this long. He had always kept the necklace close to his heart. There was probably nothing he held dearer, except maybe a few select people's lives.

Snopy's emotions lately were scattered all over. His own feelings, which he usually had a strong grasp and understanding of, had confused him to no end. It had all started the last time he had been with Kanna. At the end of that day, was where the confusion began. Something he couldn't put his finger on had happened that day. Ever since, his mind has been drifting off more and more. It was shortly after this event he had begun to think about his family members. In fact, it was that very night, before he fell asleep, that he began to remember his family. They were weird, and they sometimes were a pain, but he loved them dearly.

The day previous must have been the strangest. It all started with him talking to Kaminari, about what initially has completely left his mind. But something had happened. He let something slip out of his mouth, something that he had kept secret. Or maybe it wasn't a secret. Maybe it was buried so deep he was not even aware of it at the time. But in conversation, he had let it slip out of his mouth. And though he tried to cover it, Kaminari knew exactly what was meant by it.

He remembers desperately hoping she wouldn't understand it. She was innocent, so just maybe she would miss it, but instead she hit the nail on the head. Snopy had made her promise to keep it a secret, and he was relieved she agreed to. If she had said anything to anyone, he might have had a heart attack. No, he would have had a heart attack. Yet, the words he had spoken had been running through his head. He knew it full well what it was. He tried and tried to deny it, but he just couldn't. Snopy realized there was no getting around it, those words were the truth. So what were these words. I...like...Kanna.

Snopy spoke the words in an extremely quiet whisper as so no one could possibly hear them. He was done denying it. He was done lying to himself. It was the truth, a truth he had found very confusing. Yet, the sheer act of accepting it brought him some peace of mind, some being the key word. He didn't know Kaminari that well, but he was grateful she was supportive. One day, he would probably thank her. He would have to thank her. For now, however, he had other things to worry about.

Somehow he had been talked into inviting Kanna on a mission with him. This mission was precisely why he was heading out to the west gate of Seireitei. Snopy's mind drifted to how lax the Gotei 13's Research and Development department must have been. Normally, they had people monitoring and unusual activities. Yet somehow, hollow had found their way into the Soul Society several times without being detected until they were already too far along to stop before arrival.

He wondered if there were some malfunctions with the equipment. That could explain these undetected hollow. He had been sent on a mission against them before. It wasn't too long ago, he was sent alone to deal with a hollow attack in Rukongai. He almost died saving a little girl when an unknown Shinigami saved his life, and aided him in the fight. Upon returning to report the success, he had specifically mentioned this. He remembers quite clearly telling of how he would have died if it wasn't for the strange rescue.

Yet that detail must have gone straight over their heads, as they once again sent him alone. Though he had been talked into it, he was glad Kanna was going with him. She was indeed stronger than him, and he trusted her. He knew he would not simply be abandoned like some of his comrades had done in the past.

Snopy's thoughts were going too fast to keep track of. At one moment it would be his family, then it would be Kanna, then his family again, then the mission, then finally to the screw ups of the Gotei 13. This cycle just went on again and again as he approached the gate.

Snopy wished with all his heart it would rain. Rain always had a sort of calming effect on him. With his mind doing loopty loops, he could really use it. When all was said and done, he wanted to find the nearest body of water and plunge himself in it. Perhaps a quick soak would calm his nerves.

Finally he had approached the gate, and waited for the gate keeper to open it. He watches as it slowly rose up, until he could safely pass through. He felt a little uneasy whenever using these gates. They were, after all, very large and they opened up and down. If the gate keeper lost his grip at the wrong time, Snopy would be nothing short of a pancake. It was for this reason Snopy picked up the tempo as he walked through. As he came out on the other side he let out a small sigh as he picked out a spot to sit. It was a little ways off, though easily noticeable from the gate. It was nothing more than a simple bench. He quickly checked to make sure there wasn't wet paint, as sometimes kids removed the signs as a prank, and then proceeded to sit down.

He had arrived early. The meeting was supposed to be at 10 in the morning. At this time, it was 9:40. He didn't bother to check if Kanna was in the area, seeing as he was 20 minutes early. He didn't see any reason she would show up early, only to wait for him for 20+ minutes. As he sat he looked up, the clouds were heavy with water. Rain could come down at any time. He began to seriously think about the things that had plagued his mind as of late. He took off his necklace before staring at it. He looked around to see if anyone was walking by. He was sure he'd let out some personal thoughts, and he'd prefer some random Rukongai residents didn't hear it, even if he would never see them again.

He held the necklace up in front of him. Seeing as there were no thugs in the general area, he didn't worry much. If he somehow lost this necklace, he would have lost the last vestiges of his family. Snopy was not strong physically, but had someone tried to steal the necklace , the pure rage combined with the adrenaline would have made anyone who tried very very sorry. This was one thing he did not plan on losing. As he looked at the necklace, a small smile formed on his face. Sure has been a long time huh sis? How many years ago was it, when I last saw you? Its been 83 years. I haven't seen your face or heard your voice in a while.And yet, it is still so clear. I can still see your face as if it was yesterday when I last saw you. I can...still hear your voice so clearly, your laughter. That cheerful attitude, its still so clear in my head. I feel like I can reach out and touch it. Tears began to fall from his face. I can't. I can reach out, but I can't touch it. I will probably never see you again. I'll never be able to hear your voice again. I miss you more than you could imagine sis. Snopy was now fully crying. I miss how you used to follow me around, you always clung to me. It used to be annoying, but now I miss it. I hope you kept well after I died. I hope nothing happened to you. I'm...sorry I wasn't there to protect you like I always said I would. I love you sis, and I always will.

Snopy gripped the necklace tight in his hand. He was crying, and at this point he didn't care who was watching. He was so upset with himself. He had always promised her he would always watch out for her, and he went and died. Never again. He was still crying, but now there was now a strong determination in his eyes at the same time. Never again, will I fail someone like that. I promised to look out for her, and I screwed up. I had to go and die, and leave you alone like that. The sadness you must have felt, when you realized I wasn't coming back...I can never fix that damage. Snopy looked at the necklace once more. Stay well sis, and remember, I'll always love you. No matter what. His resolve was somehow sharpened. He somehow found he had purpose in his heart. In the past, he had always regret his death, because he knew it devastated his family and friends. He would never allow that to happen again. He wouldn't allow himself to die, nor would he allow anyone he cared about die. Never again would he allow anyone close to him feel that kind of pain. This resolve, the resolve to protect that which he held dear, may have been what he needed for this mission. For it could be a dangerous mission, he'd have to wait and see.

With his new found determination, he waited for Kanna. He was unsure of when she would arrive, or if she had arrived previously. He laughed a little, he had forgotten she could show up at any time. Though if she had heard his emotional rambling, he would feel a little embarrassed.


THIS POST IS 12228 characters, that is a 12.2k POST! Man, I even cried while writing this, cause that was emotional at the end there.

I also want to thank Serenity because she actually helped this post. Seeing as this thread was spawned by an OOC RP, since our characters were pretty much acting as they normally would, I was able to use it to add some detail to the post.

Eight thirty in the morning and Kanna's alarm sounded. BEEP, BEEP, BEEP! The echo of one of the most annoying sounds created shot into her ear drum. Her eyes slowly opened, looking up to the clock, already in a bad mood. She forgot for a brief moment why she had set it in the first place. "Oh yeah... Snopy." she thought to herself as she reached out and slammed her hand down on the off button. Turning to lay on her back, she stared up to the ceiling for a moment, wondering why she had accepted to go on a mission with him in the first place. After a few minutes to allow her mind to wake, she sat up from bed, turned towards the bathroom and went on with her normal morning routine. Shower, eating breakfast, brushing teeth, and changing into a clean Shihakusho. Wrapping her Lieutenant Badge around her left arm, she walked over to a mirror to finish up. Taking a ribbon, she brought her hair up into a high ponytail, tying it tightly.

Now feeling much better, she took in a deep breath and walked towards the door. Taking a last glance towards the clock, she realized it was now nine twenty. Good timing, as usual. She was one to always make it to her destination early, or perfectly on time. Since she wasn't too far from the West Gate, she knew she'd make it there in ten to fifteen minutes. Reaching out, she grabbed onto the sheath of her Zanpakutō and walked out of her little apartment. Closing and locking the door, she began walking through the Squad Four Barracks. Sliding her Zanpakutō into the white sash around her waist, she shunpo'd completely out of the barracks. Appearing at the front of the Squad Four barracks, she turned towards the direction of the West Gate and began her short journey there.

Her own mind was wandering. Kanna was almost unable to process anything at the moment. Not only had she had a strange conversation with Kaminari about what she thought about Snopy, she over heard something that she wasn't sure she understood completely. Yes, she heard it. Kanna heard Kaminari give Snopy some advice. Kaminari had told him to invite her onto a mission to see how the two of them would react towards one another. In truth, she believed that this reason was exactly why she had accepted his invite. She wasn't an idiot. She connected the dots and had come tot he conclusion that Snopy must have told Kaminari that he felt something towards her. Hearing the two of them talking had only concluded her own conclusion! She didn't really know how to react to something like that. It had been so long, almost too long since anyone had shown interest in her.

Kaminari's suggestion was actually not that bad of an idea. Kanna had too felt SOMETHING the last time that Snopy and her had spoken. With how much the both of them had opened up, it didn't shock her completely, but in truth, he wasn't usually her type. "Heh... Not my type. How stupid?! It doesn't seem that 'my type' is doing me any good. Both men that were my type and I've previously given my heart to have betrayed me..." Kanna sighed and showed a slight bit of worry on her face. Maybe it was about time to switch up what exactly she was into. Large, jock type men weren't doing her any good. They just hurt her or leave her for her best friend. Hell! One of them even caused her and her daughters death.

"Natalie...." she thought to herself. No. She was becoming emotional again when thinking about her little girl. She shook her head harshly and pushed the thoughts out of her head, forcing herself to concentrate on everything that was going on today. She was coming to the gate now and it was already half way open, but in the middle of being closed. Instead of being forced to wait once more, she shunpo'd through, waving once to the gatekeeper and appeared on the opposite side. Assuming that the person that had made it through before was Snopy, she looked around for him.

Yep, it was him. He was sitting on a bench and... he was crying. Kanna was completely taken by surprise when she saw this. Her eyes even slightly widened and her mouth opened a bit as if she was going to say something to him, but she stopped. She closed her mouth and slowly walked up to him. She didn't really mean to, but she began eaves dropping and listening to a conversation he was having with... his sister. Okay, now what was she supposed to do?! She didn't expect him to come early. That was her job! She did that kind of thing normally. Now that he was here and he was having a personal conversation, what was she supposed to do? Interrupt him? No, she couldn't do that. Especially with how upset he seemed.

Listening to this one private conversation, she had no clue that he had been going through so much pain himself. He too felt like he had betrayed someone. She felt the same. Because of her and her acceptance while she was alive, she stayed with a man that didn't care about her and in the end her daughter had died way to early. In her own mind, she had betrayed her little girl. And now, here Snopy was. He felt his own guilt for 'betraying' his sister. For promising to be there, yet dying on her and leaving her alone. Although their situations were different, Kanna now had to admit that Snopy and her actually did have a few things in common. Nothing could ease either of their pain. No words can make the guilt and sorry go away. It could only be numbed. It could only be changed by moving on and promising yourself that you would do better. This was the exact reason why Kanna had problems trusting people. She trusted them so easily before and it got her and her little girl killed.

Kanna heard him finish. She didn't step forward though. She only stood there for a moment to allow him to collect himself. She doubted highly that he would want her hearing all of that, so she kept quiet. She was standing behind him after all, and since she kept her spiritual pressure hidden all the time, he wouldn't know whether she was there until she allowed him to. Taking a very quiet deep breath, she closed her eyes and waited for a moment. Once she felt a bit of time had gone by, she stepped forward and set a hand on his shoulder. This was her way of making herself known. She looked down to him with her usual demeanor. She kept the normal stoic expression that she always had and just kept it plastered onto her face. You'd think with everything she had just heard and everything that she had realized about the both of them, that maybe, just maybe she would show a bit of emotion towards him, but no. She refused to.

"Hey." Kanna stepped around the bench, removing her hand from his shoulder and walking to where she was standing in front of him. "I can't say I was expecting you to get here early. You beat me. I'm not used to people arriving before I do." She raised her arms and crossed them along her chest, still looking rather expressionlessly at him. "So, where exactly are we going? You said that there weren't many details given. Any changes?" Although she didn't mean to do it, there was a slight change in her tone when speaking to him. It was much softer and had a small kindness hinted within. Whether this was because she found out about his sister and his regret, or was it because she knew that he felt something for her? It could be both. In all honesty, she was actually interested in seeing how far he would go.

It took Snopy a short while to compose himself. He had just been crying like crazy. He had, as of yet, failed to notice Kanna's presence. He was completely unaware that she had overheard him. Once composed, he made sure his eyes didn't have any tears left in them. He hoped that the fact he had just been crying wasn't obvious, like it usually was after a person had cried. There he sat for about a minute before he felt something. Someone's hand was on his shoulder. He immediately recognized Kanna's voice, though didn't expect the word that came out. He didn't recall Kanna ever saying hey before. It just didn't seem like her word. He watched as she moved around in front of him.

As she continued to speak, he also noticed something else. Her voice was softer, and seemed like somewhere in it was kindness. This caught the Shinigami off guard, though he didn't make it evident. She was acting differently, that much was certain. He could not figure out for the life of him why she seemed different. Listening to her voice, now much softer, he also felt something else strange inside. It dawned on him what it actually was, he found it strangely attractive. Snopy was sure he was losing it now. First he was unexpectedly attracted to Kanna, and now he thought her voice, which was still very straight sounding even as it softened, was attractive. He was completely baffled by everything, and it happened so fast. His brain was struggling to process it.

As she walked in front of him, he simply looked up at her, smiling. This smile was different from his usual ones. It was a subtler smile. It portrayed his emotions differently, which only made sense seeing as they were different from before. Yet he found himself doing it unconsciously. Unlike their previous encounters, Snopy was actually happy to see her. Not that he was ever unhappy to see her, but now he WAS happy to see her. His mind continued to baffle him as he looked at her and was beginning to find her physically attractive as well. The sheer overload of new feelings only hit the Shinigami so hard for two reasons. 1. Her personality was one he'd never imagine falling for. 2. He hadn't been attracted to her at all on their first encounter, so the sudden change in feelings caught him completely off guard.

He began to speak, not even wondering if she had heard anything he had said previously. I just needed some time to think about things is all, so I left early. I've...had a lot to think about recently. He spoke, but the slight change from his regular tone hinted something about what he was thinking about, if only slightly. He listened as she asked what the mission was exactly. That, I can answer with some certainty now. His tone towards her as a whole had changed as well, though he himself had not noticed.

Snopy remembered when he told her about the mission there were few details given at the time. Snopy had worried that they would send him out blind. Though this morning, a messenger was sent with a full briefing. He had acquired a lot of information, though he wished there was a little more. However, he didn't want to complain too much seeing as they had given him more to work with. This morning they briefed me on more details. It isn't a full report, but if it makes our job easier, I won't complain. He paced a bit thinking on where to start.

Well here is the story. About eight days ago there was some strange interference in the computers used to monitor the Soul Society. They didn't know what caused it at first, since it cleared up after only a few minutes. Due to this, they didn't check the machines like they should have. For awhile everything seemed perfectly fine, but then two days later, the interference happened again. It was just as short as the first, if not shorter. Afterwards, they spent the entire day checking the computers, there wasn't a problem they could find. This leads to one of the points of our mission. Early yesterday, the errors happened again, and this time when they cleared a large group of hollow appeared. However, they could not get a good lock on them, as wherever the hollow were, there was some form of jam in the radar.

He sighed for a moment. They didn't tell me the next part, but to me it is quite obvious. One of the hollow must be jamming the signal somehow. I think, that is what caused interference. Our mission is to basically slay the hollow. Though the main goal may be to kill the one that is causing the jamming, though again, this is what I think it is. What we're going to do on this mission is simply kill all the hollow. They are a threat to everyone around, and as much as I think some of the people in Rukongai deserve it, not everyone there is a low-life. Besides, we ourselves have no way of knowing which hollow is causing the interference, so we'll have to kill them all either way to be sure.

Snopy made sure to be thorough. He felt like he said way more than needed, but everyone functions better when they know what they are dealing with. He looked over and pointed towards the West. Its in that direction, though another word of caution. This hollow is jamming the signal around it, we have no data. All we know is they are regular hollow and not Menos class, their numbers remain to be seen. He had given every detail. Well then, we should get moving on then. He motioned to have Kanna follow him as he headed off towards the last known location of the group. Knowing all that he did now, he was really relieved that Kanna was with him. This seemed like a suicide mission for someone his strength to tackle alone. I have a feeling, we have a long day ahead of us. He glanced over at Kanna for a moment before returning his view in front of him. Somehow, despite his displeasure at the mission itself, Snopy was happy.

As he turned towards her, Kanna was immediately able to tell that he was indeed crying. She knew that already, but him attempting to hide the fact would have been in vein in the first place. His eyes were slightly red and a little puffy. If she had not over heard him, she still would have been able to tell. Once Snopy began to speak, she could immediately tell the change in his tone towards her. In truth, it was relieving. She like the idea of him beginning to trust her, and she also didn't mind the fact that he did feel something towards her as well. There was nothing wrong with someone liking you. The only problem she had now was herself. Would she be attracted to him enough to return his feelings? Would she be able to open her heart up in the first place? Or would she even feel secure enough to allow something like this to happen. Her history and past interactions with the opposite sex tells her no, but does that mean it will always be that way? She doubted it. There is always room for change.

Kanna was quickly relieved of a slight amount of stress she felt when he was finally able to explain some of the mission that they were about to go on. It shocked her though. How could a mere Hollow do something as big as disrupt the computer signals through out the Seireitei. Was it even possible to have something like that happen? Obviously those within the Department of Research and Development thought there was a possibility. "Why would the send you alone on a mission such as this? Obviously it would be out of your league. A hollow with that amount of type of power... It's nerve wracking." Kanna didn't mean to insult him in any way. Just because her emotions towards him were confusing at the moment, didn't mean she was going to change her personality and obvious bluntness. It was now a huge part of who she was. And this fact did bug her. They were sending him out to do something like this ALONE. Why? It didn't make sense, but something did come to mind.

About a week ago, Kaminari told her a story that had happened between her, Captain Crow of Squad Eight, and the now former Third Seat of Squad One. Captain Crow had requested for both Kaminari and the Third Seat to go on a huge mission with him. Apparently, the entire thing was plan by those in the Seireitei to test them, but they knew the chance of Kaminari and the Third Seats survival was dangerously low. Also, Kaminari had informed her that Captain Crow, once questioned by the Third Seat, had admitted to the mission being a test and that they were pretty much being sent out there to die. If Shinji, the Third Seat Of Squad One, had not become suspicious and asked the questions he asked, then Kaminari would more than likely gone on the mission and would currently be dead. "Could this be the same type of situation? Are they trying to send Snopy out there on a mission like this just to have him die?" she thought to herself. This question angered her deeply and she was already showing it on her face. Her eyes narrowed and she scowled slightly, showing her teeth in the process. This was WAY, WAY more emotion than she had every shown before.

Pushing those thoughts aside, she allowed the information that Snopy had just told her about the mission to sink into her brain. She closed her eyes for a moment, trying to think about what sort of battle situations they might face while on the mission. In truth, she couldn't think of any. They knew what had happened to have this mission come about, but they knew nothing about the Hollow's powers. Honestly, Kanna was actually wondering if it was truly a Hollow behind this in the first place. That type of power didn't seem like something that a Hollow would possess. "So we are just going out there to kill a Hollow. And when it comes to this Hollow, we don't know what it looks like and we only know the general area in which it might be. We have no clue if it is actually one Hollow or hundreds... And they were going to send you out along on this mission?" Kanna once again felt anger rise in her stomach, not knowing whether she could trust the information given to her and Snopy.

"Oh well...." Kanna sighed and relaxed a bit. What happens today is meant to happen and she wasn't going to fight it. She had been invited on this mission, so it was completely voluntary. If she wished, she could turn around, say sorry, and leave it to him. She would not do that though. She considered going back on your word to be a lie, and she was no liar. "Yes, we should get going. We are going to have a long day ahead of us, like you say, so let's not waste any time to make it longer." She turned her head towards the direction in which he was pointing and waited for him to get moving. Once he did, she followed him at an equal pace. As they walked, she noticed Snopy glanced back to her. She was back in her usual demeanor again. Once again being as serious and professional as always, but once he turned away from her, a small smile formed on her lips. She as well was happy. Whether this mission worried her or not, she was actually happy with the fact that he had invited her and that she had said yes. If she hadn't, she wondered if she would have ever seen him again...

As they walked, there was one major difference between their attitudes. Kanna had been showing a fairly large amount of anger. Snopy, upon glancing over, could tell. Of course Snopy should have been as angry as her, if not more. He was fully aware he had been seemingly sent on a suicide mission. Yet Snopy had very little ability to feel anger. After all, there is almost nothing that can anger him, save a few select events. He had resigned himself to merely displeasure. His willpower for the mission had hit an all time low once he had been briefed. In fact, he had resigned to his fate. If it was a suicide mission, he'd just have to do his best to fail, by living through the experience.

This in itself was why he had worn the necklace his sister had given him. He was hoping to draw on his memory of her for strength, and in a way it had worked. Somehow his will to live was greater than usual, and he was often told he was, "So stubborn that he wouldn't die if you killed him." Yet, that proved to be too little to survive this. With his resolve sharpened, he planned on showing everyone what he was capable of. They were going to complete this mission, and they were both going to come back alive.

As he listened to her realistic comment, he had but one thing to say. Kanna, I wouldn't be surprised if this was just some crazy rouge Shinigami that they wanted to put down. I've resigned myself to the fact they seem to be expecting me to die. My sole goal on this mission is to prove them wrong once and for all. Completing a mission like this and surviving would shut them up for good. In fact, I don't want to lie to you so I'm just going to say it, I smell a set-up. Snopy thought for a second on how to explain what he meant.

There are a few people in my squad who dislike me. They simply can't stand me, either they think I'm lazy or they can't stand how I really don't care about their opinions. Basically I'm a threat to their ego. One in particular, transferred from Division 12. I wouldn't be surprised if the whole thing was an elaborate set-up. He could have easily knocked out scans a few times. Then he could have somehow convinced my superiors I was stronger than I actually was, which he must have done for a mission I had done before. If he had access to Squad 12's technology, they could all be fake hollow and he is simply walking around with a jammer in his hand. Of course, this is only a theory, like this whole god damned mission. He shook his head, why did he get the vibe he was right? He had the strangest feeling that it really was a set-up.

Snopy sighed before talking. With all possibilities considered, we have to prepare for the worst. Snopy glanced over at Kanna once more. He deep down felt everything would be all right. Yet, he found himself a little worried about Kanna. He knew it was a little dumb, seeing as he was the one who would have trouble out here. Yet, he couldn't help it. He was genuinely concerned for her safety. When this is all over, I think I'm going to head to the nearest pool of water and jump in, Shihakusho and all. I really don't need all this stress. He kept his concerns to himself, for now. When they reached the destination, he would be a bit more vocal about it.

Snopy wasn't paying much attention when he felt something hit him right on the nose. The he felt little droplets were hitting him all over. Looking up, it was beginning to rain. He couldn't believe how the water felt on his skin. Not only that, he knew he'd function better mentally in the rain. Though how much help it would be was questionable, every bit counts. Rain huh? I guess someone up there is on our side. I always fight better in the rain anyway. When he was alive, he could still consistently hit a target between the eyes no matter what the conditions. In fact, it seemed more consistent.

He looked over at Kanna. Kanna, I want to know. What is your opinion on this whole situation. I mean your real feelings, on this death mission?

Kanna's mind was pulled from it's thoughts when Snopy said her name. She shifted her eyes upward, looking towards him. She still had a slightly irritated look in her eyes, but it was not towards him at all. "Someone from your Division that transferred from the Twelfth? You really think they would go through all of this trouble just to get rid of you? If so, I doubt highly that they are expecting a Lieutenant to be with you. Although, if they know who I am and what Division I am from, I am sure that they will underestimate me. Squad Four isn't exactly known for their ability in combat." Kanna straightened her posture, keeping her head held high. If what he said was true, she'd do her best to shut them up. Forcing Snopy out onto missions like this was just ridiculous. It also meant that someone must have a contact within the Seireitei that they shouldn't have, and one word that came to Kanna's mind: betrayal. She couldn't imagine how that would come out again. Another betrayal within the Soul Society is not something that she or anyone else looked forward to.

Kanna could tell that Snopy was ready to fight for life, but at the same time he was ready to die if that was going to happen. In truth, she didn't know exactly how to react to someone that was just ready to die. Hearing his statement about jumping into a pool of water, Shihakusho and all, made her giggle just a bit. It was faint and very short, but it could definitely still be heard. Suddenly she felt something tap at the top of her head. She looked upwards and saw drops of water falling down towards them. It was beginning to rain. They started falling faster and soon, they were getting soaked. Kanna thought from the sight of the sky that it actually might begin to rain, but she didn't think it would be so soon. It was morning after all and they had only been out a short time. She half way expected it to happen some time in the afternoon or even later than that. She may love the rain and water, but she didn't know how well she'd be able to fight with slippery grass and muddy floors.

"You may call rain on the day of a mission a good thing, but I can't say I do." Kanna sighed slightly, "Slipping around on the floors is not something I want to do when dodging a Hollow's attack, or the attack of a fellow Gotei 13 member... Since you seem to think it might be someone from your Division." His next question took her off guard slightly. She was angry about this mission, but at the same time she was excited for it. She looked off to the side and thought for a moment. "My real feelings on it...." she mumbled slightly and then turned her attention back to him with her usual demeanor and expression, "I hate it. I find it ridiculously stupid. The fact that they sent someone of your skill level out here on a death mission only makes me think that they are trying to kill you. With that in mind, who ever is actually behind this, I want to kill. I doubt it's the higher ups, meaning any of the Captains. They are loyal to the Squads and the people within them. If this person is a member of your Division, which I really hope it's not because that will cause a lot of problems if we kill him... but if it is, frankly I'll be pissed off."

Snopy laughed a bit as she commented on who would go through all the trouble to get rid of him. Kanna, you've heard me before. I have called myself crazy on more than on occasion. But I'm still a functioning adult. This guy, he wasn't put together right. He somehow hid behind a facade of being a perfectly normal squad member, but he was mental. He only showed it when around just me, since he knew it was just messed up. Snopy thought for a moment. He wouldn't just underestimate you. He'd underestimate me as well. He joined the Gotei around the same time I did, and out strength is about equal. The difference though, is I spent my life hunting hollow. I've been killing hollow since I was 5, the difference in experience alone would allow me to win in a one on one. To top it off, both of us are a LOT smarter than he is. They continued walking on.

After one of his previous comments, he heard something he thought he'd never hear. After commenting on jumping into the water, he heard a giggle escape Kanna's lips. It was faint and incredibly short, but he heard it. Even stranger was the fact that he found it kind of cute. He pushed the thoughts out of his head immediately. The last thing he needed was to be distracted in the heat of combat. Kanna's next comment, on the rain, brought up a point he hadn't thought of. Slipping. Yes actually, that would make things harder if we aren't careful.

His final question was responded to first with a mumble. Then, Kanna expressed her obvious anger at the whole situation. He listened contently before dealing with her concerns. If it is from my Squad, I don't think there will be a problem. Hollow have been sighted by scouts, and there are devices in squad 12 used for training to create fake hollow. If he is behind this, and he has an accident of sorts, it wouldn't be hard to say the hollow had gotten him. That and if we take him alive, we have your word, the word of a vice captain, on our side. Suddenly, he heard a familiar voice from far in front of him.

Well well well, if it isn't The so called Lone Renegade of the Saika. The man used the nickname Snopy had gotten from he doesn't even remember where. He turned to Kanna and put his hand on her shoulder. You're pretty tough so I don't think I have to say this. But I have to warn you, you are about to witness a side of me I haven't used in ages. Some of the things I say may shock you. For that sentence, he spoke in a regular tone. Snopy took his hand off of Kanna's shoulder and took a few steps ahead. What do you think you are doing? Snopy spoke it in a way few had ever witnessed. His voice was now as cold as could be. His body gestures and facial expression were just as cold. He seemed even more cold than Kanna usually did.

What, aren't you happy to see me? Snopy's facial expression remained the same. I said what do you think you are doing. I'm getting rid of you, that's what. Snopy was un-amused at the comment. And what makes you think you could do that. I don't see how it would be hard considering we are equals. If we fought a serious one on one, you would die. I have been fighting hollow since I was 5. Killed my first Vasto Lorde at 14. Though my strength has left me, I still have far more battle experience than you do. Really, you'll be punished by the Gotei if you kill me. Not quite, you are aware that with the hollow activity recently in the area, I could kill you and they wouldn't doubt me for a second if I said a hollow did it. And if we take you alive, we have the testimony of a Vice Captain. Thats right, your plans didn't take into account a vice captain. Snopy watched as the man started laughing. The vice captain of squad 4, that's funny. She can't do anything.

Your in over your head. I am quite angry that I had to put my friend in danger because some crybaby was trying to kill me. So if you expect any mercy from me, you will be sorely disappointed. Just try it. The man suddenly dashed away. Before a pursuit could initiate, the roar of hollow shook the area. Snopy was sure Kanna would agree that it would be beneficial to secure their flanks before chasing the crazed squad member.

Snopy's demeanor returned to its usual self. He looked over towards Kanna. Before we start, I have to say something. We should be able to handle this, but should that not be the case, I want you to do something for me. He looked straight into her eyes, one could see a hint of sadness in his eyes, though his voice showed no signs. I want you to run if this is too much for us, and I want you to forget about me. Though sadness filled his eyes, one could tell he was serious. My life isn't worth dying over, so just run if it turns out we can't win. I don't care what happens to me...no, that isn't true. I mean I don't want to die. But more importantly I...I...don't want you to get hurt. He looked at Kanna, as he waited for some sort of response. His feelings for her were quite obvious by the look in his eyes. He cared more about Kanna getting out alive than himself, and it was quite obvious as well. Though he felt they would make it out alive, he was still worried about her.


Serenity, after you post I'll do the post for the hollow. So the hollow won't show up til after your post.

Kanna just kept her thoughts to herself. Hearing his explanation about them being underestimated by who ever this man was slightly irritated her. It was true what he said about having the word of a Vice Captain on their side. She would be able to use her rank as a way of convincing those back in the Seireitei of the truth about what happened here. She only hoped that the two of them would be able to take on this person without getting hurt too badly. She knew one thing would be a problem. Being the 'healer' of the two, her fighting strategy would be highly different from what Snopy's would be. She wasn't going to be able to rush in and put herself on the front lines. If she did and she ended up getting hurt, who would be the one to heal Snopy if he did? It wasn't something that she liked thinking about.

Kanna raised her head, turning her attention towards a man that decided to make his presence known. Snopy was right. It was someone wanting to get rid of him. Kanna acknowledged Snopy putting his hand on her shoulder by glancing towards him for a single moment, but her gaze quickly returned to the man before her. His name: Unknown. Kanna just kept herself quiet as the two exchanged words between one another. It's not like she was sure she could do or say anything to see what exactly was going on in the first place. Why did this man hate Snopy? And was all of this necessary just to get rid of a person? Did he hate them THAT much? All of this seemed so over dramatic. This man was exactly how Snopy described him. He was crazy... insane. Hearing what Snopy had to say, warning her about a side of him that she might not like to see. She didn't understand what he meant, at least until he turned away and began speaking to this man.

Kanna actually raised an eyebrow in surprise at Snopy's sudden change in behavior. His control over his emotions and personality was actually slightly impressive, but at the same time it was strange to her. Kanna blinked a few times, staring strangely at the back of Snopy's head and glancing over to the man that caused all of this a few times. The words they exchanged, Kanna didn't really know how to react to. That changed when Snopy mentioned her and the man insulted her because of her placement within the Gotei 13. All Kanna could do was smirk. Yes, she was the Vice Captain of Squad Four, but just because of her Squads main duties, it didn't mean that they didn't have the ability to fight. She had expected this sort of reaction and had mentioned it earlier. She didn't care. He would see different at the end of this battle, and would more than likely be dead or their prisoner. Him insulting her only gave Kanna a new found determination to annihilate him, stop his plan, and prove him wrong. She was ready for this. The only thing she was worried about was what might happen to Snopy during this little battle of theirs.

And what was this? The man challenged them and then runs off like a coward? Sounds about right. Rarely did you find a person that wouldn't run away when the chances of survival are stacked against them. Kanna didn't immediately run though. Snopy had not either, which she was glad for. She shifted her eyes toward him and before he began to speak, she said on thing, "I don't like him." Blunt, serious, and calm. In a way, hearing it would be slightly funny, especially since she was stating the obvious. She listened to what he had suggested and agreed with it by nodding. Just because she nodded, doesn't mean she meant it. For the first time in years, she might have just lied. Of course that would depend on what actually goes down. If it ends up that they can't handle it all, she wasn't going to run and leave him alone. She didn't want to. Not after listening to him. The look in his eyes, his words, the tone of his voice... All of it confirmed a few suspicions she had about what she had heard the previous night. He really did care about her. He wanted her to run if they weren't able to handle this. She wasn't the type to do that.


A Hollow's howl had echoed through the area just as the man fled from the scene, which really only added to their problem and mission. "Look... I'll take care of the Hollow. Go after that asshole. Do your best to stay alive until I get there." This wasn't a suggestion. It was an order. She made sure it came out that way. Although she would be there to help, she felt that this was something that he was going to have to attempt to do on his own. A rivalry and hatred between two Squad Members. It needed to be solved between the two of them. She wasn't going to take no for an answer. She took a step back and without any hesitation at all, she shunpo'd away, heading straight for the direction of the howl the two of them had just heard. "This... is going to be a long day."

NPC Hollow Post

A deafening howl shook throughout Rukongai. Loud, violent. It was followed by many other howls, a sure sign that there wasn't just one. There were many hollow. Somehow being controlled, their targets were two Shinigami that had entered the area. Snopy Saika, and Kanna Aikotsuki.

The largest howl was caused by a fairly large hollow. It was 12 feet tall and was somewhat humanoid. It had two large arms, and likewise, two large legs. On one hand was nothing more than a hand. On the hollow's other arm, however, where a hand would be was a blade. The blade was the hollow's hand.

The beast looked up and took a whiff of the air. It could feel the energy of the Shinigami. It could smell them. In fact, it could tell the stronger of the two was heading in its direction. The hollow, was not very intelligent. It lacked the capabilities for speech and simply went around blindly in search of food. However, the strength of the hollow was nothing to be laughed at. Its power was equal to that of the Shinigami that approached it...in theory. (tier 2-3) Though, its lack of special abilities would leave it a very simple offense. It kept note of the approaching Shinigami. The moment she appeared it would rush out and lunge its blade-like arm straight for her heart, in hopes of impaling her. Should it miss, it planned on taking evasive action and avoiding any on-coming attacks before trying to impale once more. With the strength of the hollow the odds were it would not be dispatched in one strike, though it could happen. Even as this hollow fought, more appeared to be in the vicinity. Should this hollow fall, Kanna would not be in the clear just yet.

Meanwhile four more hollow chose to move out. They all had the same target, Snopy Saika. Three of the hollow were identical looking, they moved on all fours and were about the size of a person. They resembled a large dog in a way. The fourth, was an avian-like hollow. It was also the size of a person, but it resembled a vulture. (all 4 are 5-1) All of the hollow were weak. They wouldn't prove to be a threat on their own. Still, they could be a little dangerous if they all attacked at about the same time.

As they approached whatever location the Shinigami would be at the time, their attacks would be carried out. The vulture-like hollow came in first, swooping down with razor sharp talons, which could easily rend skin. Shortly after the attack, one of the three grounded hollow rushed in. It pounced in an effort to knock Snopy down and then try and devour his face. The other two came in a few moments after that, and jumped together at a 90 degree angle from each other. Both would reach Snopy at the same time, and both planned on devouring the Shinigami before them.

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Snopy Post

Snopy listened to what Kanna said. Despite her wording, her meaning was clearly defined. She said to do his best to stay alive, but what she meant was "You'd better not die out there." It was one order Snopy would be happy to follow. As Kanna Shunpo'd off, Snopy turned towards the direction the Squad Member had fled. He took a long deep breath. I suppose you plan on this being my final act eh Masakage? We'll just see which of us survives to see the curtain fall. The somewhat poetic speak was something Snopy didn't do often. However, when he did reference life like it was a play, he seemed convincing.

Snopy began to run off, towards where Masakage supposedly was. As he ran through the empty rainy streets, he heard the cry of several hollow. Of course he has some of these hollow around to protect himself. God forbid he fight his own battles. The sarcasm in his voice was evident, though no one was around to hear it.

While he ran, suddenly he sensed something fast approaching. He turned just in time to see a flying hollow dive bomb him. Snopy used his reflexes to jump out of the way as the hollow came near. As he did, he put his hand on his Zanpakutō and drew it. In the very act of drawing, he swung his blade. He struck the hollow in the back of the neck right behind the mask. Without the mask resisting him, the blade would go through rather easily. Afterwards, he saw another one coming in to pounce. As it jumped, he raised his blade to block it. The dog-like hollow's bite would bite on the sword. From here Snopy quickly slashed to the side. The hollow would was cut by the blade from this angle, and it would fall dead rather quickly as the slash centered inside the mouth. With that hollow downed, he now had to turn his attention to the two that were stalking. With him as the origin, they were at a 90 degree angle. Soon, in seemingly perfect unison, they lunged forward at him.

Snopy jumped for the side, barely dodging the hollow. As he landed he turned back, seeing the hollow were in feet of each other. Hadō #17, Pulse Blast! He fired off the basketball sized orb of energy at the hollow. Striking the ground in between them, it caused a small explosion within a three for radius, enough to strike both hollow. Being such low level hollow, they both succumbed to the attack and perished.

Snopy turned and continued in his pursuit of Masakage. He was glad he was uninjured in that last encounter. Kanna's last words were an order to try and stay alive, yet he felt that wasn't the right description. It was an order to stay alive. Not only that, but he could tell that she didn't mean it as a superior to subordinate. To him, it felt like she actually cared. Which is why he had no choice but to listen. Besides, why wouldn't one listen to an order to stay alive. He sensed he may be in for more fights before he reached his target, but he didn't care. He would simply stay alive until Kanna arrived.

Kanna was not in the mood to take her time and evaluate the situation. She was darting through the area towards the Hollow in question. More howls echoed through the area and she narrowed her eyes. There were a lot more than this one that was showing itself. Oh well. She would take this one out and move on to the rest. She arrived and almost immediately this large Hollow went to pierce her chest with the blade that seemed to take the place of his hand. He was large, but he was slow. Kanna easily moved her body to the left of his arm, causing it to hit the ground beside her. A large amount of earth was lifted from the ground on impact, showing Kanna that this creature was indeed strong. That didn't matter to her. His arm had passed her by and in this moment, she reached to her left side, grabbing a hold of her Zanpakutō. Unsheathing her sword, she swung it out to the right, the sharp edge slicing easily through half of this large Hollows arms, causing blood to squirt out and splatter along the floor and the bottom of her own Shihakusho.

The Hollow let out a loud howl, obviously not expecting to be so easily dodged. He went to strike her again and once again she moved to the side. Once his arm hit the ground, she jumped onto it and ran up the length of his arm until she met his shoulder. His other hand came around to strike at her, but she jumped over it, landing on the opposite shoulder. Using this time, she brought her blade around the back of the Hollow's head, slicing straight through the middle of it's head. Before it's body fell, she slid backwards down his arm and landed rather gracefully on the ground. The Hollows body fell to the floor and it only took a second, but his body began to disintegrate in front of her eyes. Soon the entire body was gone. Kanna knew immediately that this was not over. There were more Hollow out there that were just waiting for her to let her guard down or to find some sort of opening to attack. When they would decide to attempt an attack on her, she did not know, but she was ready for in none the less.

Kanna was slightly worried about how quickly she was going to be able to get to Snopy. With all of these Hollows around her, she didn't want to lead them to him just to have more problems there. She also didn't know the full powers of this man that had caused all of this to happen. Running in there with Hollows chasing her and then having to help Snopy fight him off was not the smartest idea. The two of them would more than likely become distracted with whether the other was going to be okay or if they had been injured. That wasn't something that Kanna wanted to worry about. She could tell by his spiritual pressure that he had shot of a Kidō and had not been hurt, but his enemies were only low level Hollow. It seemed that the stronger ones were going to be sent to keep her at bay while the two of them would fight one another. Whatever. That was fine. One strong opponent with a whole lot of weak ones sounded better than having Snopy go up against multiple strong. The intelligence of the Hollow's helped as well. It didn't seem that any of them were going to be smart enough to evaluate the situation, so she knew they'd be okay.

Now... she only waited for the next Hollow to show himself and attack. She had her sword tightly gripped within her right hand, her eyes shifting back and forth, waiting for whatever was going to come after her. If they took too long, she would begin her way towards Snopy just to lessen the distance between the two of them. Otherwise, she'd stand her ground and fight. It all depended on what they were going to do to challenge her. "Hurry the hell up. Stop wasting my time and making me wait. Attack if you're going to fucking attack. I have things I need to do and a place I need to be damn it..."