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Post by Makino Tori on Apr 6, 2024 23:51:10 GMT -6
"But I will be living by the name Tori, not Masanobu. No one but the nobles that know of us will be any the wiser." Makino sighed and fell silent until an idea came to her. her eyes lit up as she looked at her two eldest brothers.
"What if Captain Kuchiki could make it to where no one would ever find out who or what I was?"
Kin huffed, "I would no more trust a member of the Gotei 13 than I would trust Aizen Sousuke. The Gotei 13 is worthless at protecting secrets, or others. The Ryouma girl and the Miyamoto girl are living proof of this."
Makino narrowed her eyes at her eldest brother, "Then trust the noble Kuchiki-sama, or even better, trust Suigetsu-chan. She would never let harm come to any of us."
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Post by Kin Masanobu on Apr 7, 2024 0:38:03 GMT -6
Kin glowered at his baby sister a firm hand coming down on the table. "I will not bend on this subject, Makino. I will not allow you to enroll in the academy and join the Gotei. You are a Masanobu assassin, and there you will remain."
"Mom!" Makino looked quickly at her mother. "This is not fair. If anyone has finally say in this it should be Ojii-san, not Kin."
"Ojii-san gave me the power to make the decision when he made me head of this household."
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Post by Shirou Masanobu on Apr 7, 2024 0:47:35 GMT -6
Shirou pulled on Makino’s sleeve to keep her seated. “Calm down, Maki-chan. I’m sure that this is just difficult. Kin doesn’t want to be mean.” He looked to his two older brothers, trying to appeal to them from another perspective. “You do know that if our baby sister marries outside of certain circles, she will have to hide her family’s identity anyway, right? That isn’t something we have to go through.”
When he got silence, he stuffed a cake into Kouen’s mouth to stop his language. “Let’s refer this discussion for a bit longer. There’s still time-”
“Time enough for people to get their heads out of their asses,” Kouen muttered.
“Language,” their mother murmured.
“Alright,” Hakuryuu interrupted, tone crisp, “if you can convince Kuchiki-sama as well as the other heads of the the Great Noble Households, and not only Suigetsu-sama or Shihoin-sama’s families to stand by you and to hide your identity, I’ll accept it. That does not mean that I will like your decision, but I will try to understand.”
Shirou did some calculations in his head and covered Makino’s mouth before she could retort. It may be difficult but it may just work. He looked to his eldest brother. “Can we try that, Kin-sama? You can call it a second opinion and revisit the idea.” When Kin continued to glower at him, he opened a fan. "You do know that she doesn't have to graduate from the academy, right? We don't have to decide if this will work completely now."
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Post by Makino Tori on Apr 7, 2024 1:12:00 GMT -6
Makino looked over at her youngest brother, "seriously you think I am going to go on campaign and talk to all these people about keeping my trait a secret and then not graduate? That would be a disgrace and I would be dishonoring not only them but our family as well."
She looked at Kin and Hakuryuu, "If I enroll in the academy I will graduate and I will become a member of the Gotei 13." Makino stood from the table and looked down at her older brothers.
"This is what I have wanted to do since I was little and that dream has not changed. If I talk to the other nobles or not." She turned and stormed from the room as she mumbled under her breath. "I will get them to agree to this and I will be going to the academy."
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Post by Kouen Masanobu on Apr 7, 2024 1:30:45 GMT -6
Kouen shook his head as he stood from the table and looked on at his two older brothers, "why is it that you two assholes--""Language please, Kouen." Saya stated as she set her teacup on the table."Always seem to piss off," Saya sighed as she cast her eyes down, "our baby sister." Kouen looked over at their mother and bowed to her. "I apologize mother, but my older siblings need to learn how to consider other peoples feelings." He glanced at Kin and Hakuryuu, "especially when they are their own baby sister."Kouen turned, his attention going to his baby brother. "I think you need to go apologize to Maki-chan." He watched Shirou nod as he walked past and left the sitting room.--END RP-- "Getting to the Root of the Matter"
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Post by Saya Masanobu on Jul 10, 2024 22:41:29 GMT -6
Bleach Unrated: REBOOTEDCurrent Arc: RejectionEpisode 486 "Balancing Order in the Dark": (continued) Saya in the sitting room, the doors open to reveal a tranquil view of the garden. The gentle sound of rustling leaves and the soft chirping of crickets provided a soothing backdrop as she meticulously painted intricate designs on Riku's kimono. Her thoughts wandered to her two sons, Kouen and Kin, anxiously awaiting their return from their mission.
The peace was abruptly shattered when the doors to the sitting room slid open. Saya turned, paintbrush in hand, a wide, bright smile lighting up her face in anticipation. But her expression fell instantly at the sight before her. Captain Byakuya Kuchiki stood in the doorway, his presence commanding and solemn. Beside him was Kouen, but Kin was nowhere to be seen.
Saya's heart dropped, a cold dread washing over her. Her hand flew to her chest, and her eyes began to burn with unshed tears. She tried to place the paintbrush on the table, but her trembling fingers betrayed her, and it fell to the tatami floor with a soft thud. Tears trickled down her cheeks as she took a shaky step forward, only to stumble, the weight of her fear overwhelming.
"Kin," she whispered, her voice barely audible. The name hung in the air, laden with anguish and desperation.Byakuya’s gaze softened slightly as he stepped aside, allowing Kouen to move forward. Kouen’s eyes met his mother’s, a mixture of sorrow and reassurance in his expression. He quickly moved to steady her, his arms wrapping around her shoulders. "Mother," Kouen said softly, his voice trembling. "Kin is... he’s safe. He just... couldn't make it back yet."Saya clung to Kouen, her tears soaking his robes. She pulled back slightly, searching his face for the truth. "But why is Kuchiki-sama here?" she asked, her voice barely more than a whisper.Byakuya stepped forward, his demeanor calm and composed. "I came to discuss matters of importance with Kin. It seems circumstances have delayed him. Rest assured, he is not in immediate danger." Saya nodded, trying to steady her breathing. She looked to Byakuya, her eyes pleading. "Please, tell me what’s going on."Byakuya inclined his head slightly, a gesture of respect. "There are issues that need attention." Saya’s heart ached, but she nodded in understanding. "Very well, Kuchiki-sama. Please, come in and sit."As Byakuya and Kouen entered the room, Makino and Jiro appeared in the hallway, their faces pale with worry. They exchanged glances, silently deciding to stay out of sight but close enough to listen.Saya gestured for Byakuya to sit, her hands still trembling slightly. "I am sure Kin will be home shortly. Would you like some tea, Kuchiki-sama?" |
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Post by Captain Byakuya Kuchiki on Jul 11, 2024 0:37:35 GMT -6
Byakuya nodded, continuing to stand for the moment. “If you wish to serve some and will take a moment of time for yourself, I will join you." He looked around the room. “I apologize for the timing of my visit and for the anguish it has caused you both. That was not my intent.”
As he spoke, he signed in the Stealth Force code. "Someone is eavesdropping. Is your daughter privy to this?"
Saya returned his gesture, "It only depends on why you are here. She is normally part of missions we are sent on."
"And her companion?" Byakuya continued to sign. "She came home with a boy her age, but I believe she is your youngest."
Koko remained silent and to herself as she served tea to Saya and Byakuya.
Saya smiled warmly and nodded, "Jiro is also part of the Masanobu clan. His mother serves as the esteemed tutor of my three youngest children. Makino and Jiro have grown up together, their bond akin to that of siblings. At the tender age of seven, Jiro discovered our family's secret and, with heartfelt determination, beseeched us to make him a part of our clan. His loyalty and dedication have been unwavering ever since."
A slight smile answered hers before he ended that, speaking aloud. "Then do your clan proud and ask to enter the room instead listening like rats at a door, which is too close a location for eavesdropping when your quarry is alert and has already spotted you. If this had been a private matter, you should know that there would be consequences."
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Post by Makino Tori on Jul 11, 2024 1:20:37 GMT -6
Hearing Byakuya, Makino slid open the doors as the four in the room looked toward her and Jiro. "Sorry," Makino said sheepishly, her hands tucked behind her. "I was just worried." She looked to Byakuya. "It's not every day the Kuchiki Head visits our humble abode."
Jiro leaned slightly toward Makino and whispered, "I told you."
"No, this is not something you would expect," Byakuya murmured in agreement, his voice calm and measured. But then his tone hardened, carrying the weight of authority. "However, as a member of the Masanobu clan, whether by blood or privilege, such behavior is unbecoming. If you wish to attend the Academy and maintain your secret, you must conduct yourself with the dignity befitting your status."
Makino stiffened, her gaze snapping to Byakuya. How did he know? How did he know she aspired to join the Academy? She nodded stiffly and moved toward the table, Jiro following closely behind, his curiosity piqued. As they took their seats, Koko served them tea with a serene grace. The atmosphere was tense, and Jiro couldn’t contain his thoughts any longer.
"Are you here because of the notes from the Robin Hood group?" he blurted out, his voice breaking the silence.
Makino's eyes widened in shock, her expression screaming, 'REALLY?!'. "What?!" Jiro exclaimed, staring incredulously at Makino.
Jiro shrugged, undeterred by her reaction. "It only makes sense," he began, his tone matter-of-fact. "Captain Kuchiki is the head of the Sixth Division, which handles Internal Affairs. They oversee all of Gotei 13's internal activities, monitoring shinigami and addressing any disturbances. They are responsible for apprehending those who break Soul Society laws and detaining them until their verdict is given."
Byakuya’s expression remained stoic, but his eyes flickered with interest. Jiro continued, "And the Kuchiki clan is one of the Four Noble Houses."
Makino’s mind raced, her heart pounding. She looked from Jiro to Byakuya, unsure of how much had been revealed and how much Byakuya already knew. The gravity of the situation settled over her like a heavy shroud.
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Post by Captain Byakuya Kuchiki on Jul 11, 2024 2:17:24 GMT -6
Byakuya inclined his head in their direction. “Your ally’s assessment is sound and appropriate considering my position and the timing of this encounter,” the captain murmured, “but I will wait to discuss my matter until your brother has arrived. I do not wish to add to the anxiety of the night more than I already have with this surprise visit. There is enough of weight to discuss tonight without detailing it multiple times.”
When a silence settled over the room, Byakuya turned to join them at the table, picking up the tea their maid offered him.
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Post by Kin Masanobu on Jul 11, 2024 2:32:09 GMT -6
Kin entered the sitting room with his second youngest brother, Hakuryuu. Both moved with the grace and precision of seasoned warriors. As they crossed the threshold, they bowed in unison. "Kuchiki-sama, to what do we owe this visit?" Kin inquired, his voice respectful yet curious.
The brothers took their seats at the table, their movements synchronized and deliberate. Koko approached silently, serving them tea with practiced ease. She bowed slightly before exiting the room, leaving them in privacy to discuss matters of importance.
"Is there something wrong, Kuchiki-sama? Is there a task you require us to undertake?" Hakuryuu asked, his tone respectful yet tinged with curiosity.
"I am here because the matter of this Robin Hood clan needs to be settled, either completely or with a scapegoat," Byakuya declared. "The Gotei 13's investigation is getting too close to the truth of the matter, even with the letters being removed from the scenes. It is best to settle this on our terms before certain members of the Gotei and people in my division realize my position with your clan — as has been unveiled and buried in the past."
"For the past few days, I have deliberated on this matter with my mother and Sofu," Kin began, his tone dignified and measured. He glanced at his mother before continuing, "We have observed that the Robin Hood group targets only the wealthier individuals, showing no interest in those of lesser means. This pattern is both intriguing and concerning."
"We propose that, during our next high-profile mission, we orchestrate a situation to entrap the Robin Hood group," Hakuryuu informed the Kuchiki head with a respectful nod.
"When will such a trap be possible?" Byakuya pressed.
Kin shook his head, his expression solemn. "The Koriyama assign the targets, and we have no control over who is contracted. Nor are we privy to their prestige. Such matters are not our concern. Our mission is to cleanse our society of its undesirable elements. Moreover, I am uncertain as to how we might procure such information. I am not even sure the Koriyamas are aware of such things."
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Post by Captain Byakuya Kuchiki on Jul 11, 2024 3:56:39 GMT -6
“As I expected,” Byakuya nodded. He fell silent, taking slow sips of his tea, listening to the water running through the bamboo pipes outside.
“This is the situation before us now. Occasionally, the rate of crime is such that I cannot bury the details of those executed by your clan, and with the Gotei returning from their enslavement, anything interesting is magnified — that detail being the robberies of the Robin Hood gang before the planned assassinations. At this time, I have greatly underestimated the abilities of both the thieves and our divisions when there is a great need to prove ourselves. I believed the thieves would slow down with our return and that any connection would fade. Instead, there is a overwhelming desire to get to the truth that will be difficult to silence once it is revealed.
However, whether or not those searching are trustworthy, I’m uncertain that now is the right time to reveal that — whether it is your righteous mission or the fact that others know of that mission. There is enough dissent after our fall for such a hand to be revealed. That is why we need to finish the search for the thieves and place them in our control.”
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Post by Kin Masanobu on Jul 12, 2024 1:42:37 GMT -6
The sitting room was quiet, the tension palpable as the family thought about Byakuya's words. Kin, Hakuryuu, Kouen, Makino, and their mother Saya sat around the table, their expressions serious and focused.
Kin spoke first, his voice calm but resolute. "Byakuya-sama's concern is valid. The Robin Hood group's activities are becoming too conspicuous, and we need to act swiftly to bring them under control. We must devise a plan to catch them in the act."
Hakuryuu nodded thoughtfully. "We need to understand their pattern better. They target wealthier individuals, but we need to predict their next move. If we can anticipate their actions, we can set a trap."
Makino leaned forward, her eyes sharp with determination. "I want to know how they are learning who our hits are. Maybe if we can find out who's feeding them that information, we might be able to track them that way."
Kouen added, "If we only knew the social status of our targets, then we would know when the Robin Hood group would hit as well."
"They seem to like mocking the Masanobus." Jiro crossed his arms over his chest, "They rob the targets before the Masanobus can swoop in and do their job." Jiro grumbled.
Saya, ever the guiding presence, spoke with calm authority. "We must also be cautious. Byakuya-sama's warning about revealing too much is wise, it could complicate matters further. We need to move with both speed and discretion."
Kin nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Mother. We’ll operate in the shadows, just as we always have. But we must be thorough. Hakuryuu, I would like you analyze the data we gather and find the patterns. Kouen, use your contacts to gather any additional information that might help us."
Makino looked at her brothers, determination in her eyes. "And what happens if we find nothing?" She looked at her brothers. "We are not dealing with amateurs here. These guys are real pros."
Jiro looked around the table, "a setup? We can spread it around and make it look like a high-prestige target is in the sights of the Masanobu. That should lure them out."
Saya hummed in thought, "We would need to be ready to strike swiftly. The moment they take the bait, we must capture them before they can escape or alert their allies."
The family nodded in unison, their resolve strengthened by their shared purpose. They knew the risks, but they also knew their duty. They would find the Robin Hood group and bring them to justice, preserving the honor of the Masanobu clan and the stability of the Soul Society.
With a final, resolute nod, Kin spoke, "We start tomorrow. We have much to do, and time is of the essence."
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Post by Captain Byakuya Kuchiki on Jul 15, 2024 0:17:21 GMT -6
Byakuya nodded. “It is a sound plan and should be enough for the time being.” He rose from the table. “However, if this plan does not yield results, we will have to discuss another method, perhaps involve Ashimitsu-Shihoin and find a scapegoat, something to give people a face and hopefully give the true Robin Hood gang a reason to slow down. There is enough chaos around Seireitei because of what the fiends from Hueco Mundo accomplished in our midst today. For the sake of the small peace still among us, we cannot allow any further unrest to take root.”
He looked around the room. “I will arrange a meeting with the Koriyama family tomorrow. If there is anything further they can see, I am sure they will inform you. As for any news in the Gotei, the attack this afternoon will grant us a window of a reprieve where even the most intrepid writer will turn their attention to the current crisis. I do not know how long it will last.”
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Post by Saya Masanobu on Jul 15, 2024 14:46:19 GMT -6
Saya and Kin both nod in agreement with Byakuya, but Says could see a building question on her daughter's face. "Maki-chan is there something you want to say or ask?"
Makino looked form her mother to Byakuya, "Kuchiki-sama, may I ask how you knew I wanted to join the Academy?" Her head shook, "not many knows about that goal of mine." She smiled warmly at the Captain.
Something nameless passed through the captain's obsidian eyes. "Your father... once asked," he admitted. "He looked over the garden outside. "At the time, it was a hypothetical question as he acknowledged that it wouldn't be possible as long as Yamamoto Genryusai led the Gotei 13." He looked over to the eager young woman. "Much has changed since then."
He turned back to the lady of the house, bowing his head. "Once again, I apologize for any fright my decision to come here at this time caused you. I did not want to take any chances due to recent developments."
Makino lowered her eyes as she sat in thought, she felt as if her windpipe was closing and her eyes started to sting with the mention of her father. Saya looked over at Makino as Jiro consolingly rubbed her daughters back. She turned her attention back to Byakuya with a warm smile. "All is forgiven, Kuchiki-sama. Though I must say it seem as if the only time we see or hear from you is when a situation is dire." Her smile deepened, her head tilting to one side. "I know you're a busy man, but a friendly calling here and there could be a welcome break."
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Post by Captain Byakuya Kuchiki on Jul 15, 2024 23:12:49 GMT -6
The captain hummed in acknowledgement. "Perhaps, but it has been some time since I have desired or sought to make a friendly calling. In addition," he glanced to the daughter again, "your husband perished in service of my division. It did not seem plausible to call on you without calling attention to your loss."
With a nod, Saya smiled a sweet, yet sad smile. "It has been twenty-three years, give or take. Those years were indeed hard, but if staying away would remind me of my late husband," she giggled softly into the sleeve of her kimono, "then I suppose I would have to chase my children off as well."
Makino blinked a few times, her eyes wide with surprise. She glanced at Jiro, who mirrored her astonishment. "Really, Mother?!"
Kouen chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. Kin, meanwhile, crossed his arms over his chest, pretending to be hurt. "I see how it is," he said with mock indignation. "We’re nothing but trouble, is that it?"
Saya’s laughter filled the room, a gentle reminder of the love and warmth that bound their family together. "You know that’s not true," she said, her eyes twinkling. "But if you’re going to be difficult, I might just reconsider."
The playful exchange eased some of the tension, reminding them all that no matter the challenges they faced, they would always have each other. Her attention turned to Byakuya with a bright cheerful smile. "Time heals wounds, and though Kazuo is no longer here in a physical form," her hand lifted and rested over her heart. "He will always be with us spiritually." Her head tipped slightly to one side, her smile still in place, "you're always welcome in our home Kuchiki-sama."
The high noble inclined his head in lieu of an immediate reply. He did not wish to interrupt the warm family moment with another wave of formalities, but he could not stay silent for long. "I will keep that in mind," he murmured. "However, tonight I must return. This is not the only matter I need to address this evening."
Saya smiled in understanding. "Do take care of yourself and I hope you get some rest."
"I will get enough," he acknowledged. He looked around the room. "I pray your endeavors yield swift results."
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