Gavin

[SIZE="1"]I have to say, I really was expecting more out of this fight, rather than the constant trash-talking between the two. I've never particularly liked Nnoitra, and his whole act of whipping out a new trick every time Kenpachi gets the upper-hand on him is wearing pretty thin at the moment. I mean he constantly goes on about how strong he is, so either he fights Kenpachi at a hundred percent or he should shut the **** up as far as I'm concerned. Yeah, I really don't like Nnoitra. ^_^; As far as the Inoue comment went, I don't know, her powers have always been an oddity, so it's entirely possible that Hueco Mundo has made her a little stronger as well. Her powers' strength are based in her will as well, and she always seemed quite attached to Yachiru, I imagine that helped too.[/SIZE]

[quote name='TwistedChick']This fight feels wrong to me. It doesn't feel like Kishimoto. Manga, especially shonen manga, is always supporting that if you have a good heart and powerful motivation, you can achieve anything. Naruto himself is the embodiment of that theme. What this fight is showing is that actually, you should be willing to go to [I]any[/I] ends, evil or not, to achieve your goals, since [I]apparently[/I] "going to the darkside" is sometimes the only way to get the job done. Kishimoto doesn't write like that, so what's going on? Sasuke had been slaving away for twelve years, fueled by his need for revenge, pushing further and further ahead. And yet Itachi had always towered over him, dwarfing his brother in every respect. But now, since joining Orochimaru, [I]the devil himself[/I], Sasuke is essentially *****-slapping him around. This whole situation feels off. [B]Itachi isn't weak.[/B] Going blind or not, exhausted from using mangekyou or not, he's smart enough, insightful enough, to not get stabbed in the leg by a detachable shuriken. So, [I]why[/I] would Kishimoto do this? [B][I]Why??[/I][/B] If the only way Kishimoto knows how to kill off bad-guys is in sloppy, anti-climactic fights, I will be deeply disappointed. If Orochimaru is [I]truly gone[/I] and Itachi [I]really dies[/I], then this is [I][B]lame[/B][/I]. Building up your antagonists to such a ludicrous level just to give them such weak endings is, no offense, bad writing. It undermines the entire story. All I can hope is that this doesn't end the way it seems it will. To a degree, I will have lost faith in him if it does. You can tell I am not pleased.[/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]And here I held back my rant on how bad I thought the fight was because I thought you'd disagree with me and we'd end up in a big debate again, heh. ^_^ I actually agree with everything you've said there. I may not be Sasuke's biggest fan, because although I liked the character more than Naruto originally (pre-Shippuden), he's been slowly God-modded to the point where he can take on anyone or anything and come out the winner through a mixture of his own growing strength and his enemies apparently developing a new weakness just before or during the battle, i.e. Oro's weakened state, Deidara's elemental weakness and now Itachi's blindness. For so long Itachi was the ninja we measured badassness against, in every fight we've seen him involved in, save the potential Jiraiya one, he hasn't even really appeared to exert himself. Now though, he's blind and desperate in a fight he should really have been able to win hands down. It's just not a decent end for a truly epic character. Hmm, maybe though Kishi is setting a new tone for the characters, after Naruto finds out about Jiraiya, he'll probably find out about his parents too, after that, I imagine Pein and Madara are going to be top of his hit-list, and apparently Kishi shows, avengers get powerful and get the job done by making a deal with the devil. And Naruto has one hell of the devil sealed in his stomach. That last bit was sarcastic TC, not at you, but at the thought of Naruto becoming an "avenger" like Clucky.[/SIZE]

[quote name='Rachmaninoff']He's concerned that if he only hands it over to his superior officer that the news will be suppressed. Since Grants is a member of the Underdogs after all. By his reasoning, with Vincent dead, he figures that Daedalus the only one he can truly trust.[/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Yeah, I can see after everything that's occurred within the Guard of late, Alexander would see Daedalus as probably the best person to hand it over to. Poor Daedalus though, all he wanted was a nice quiet retirement to live out with his wife, damn Leonhart always making his brother's life awkward. *Shakes fist*[/SIZE]

[SIZE="1"]Well, it seems Zetsu is quite literally split on who he's supporting in this fight now. It's nice to have the dual commentary coming from him/them/whatever. ^_^; That said, it seems more and more Kishi is telling us Sasuke is going to walk away the winner here. Even with Itachi's using Amaterasu at the end, the very fact his normal Sharingan seems to be less powerful than Sasuke's, and his eye literally bled when he used Amaterasu aren't exactly encouraging signs. Maybe the black flames will do the job, but this looks to be very much a last resort from the elder brother. Shame really, that Itachi has turned out to be so weak in this fight, after all his established badassness, he'll die half-blind to his "spare".[/SIZE]

[quote name='SunfallE'][COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]It was of course sent the night before, so perhaps he'll get it first thing in the morning? [/FONT][/COLOR][/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Perhaps, the Sentinel is still in the aerodrome, so if Alexander has the message marked as urgent, Daedalus may get it in the middle of the night. Quite a nice thing to be woken up to. Yep, Fonty, you'd better have some good answers for your dear uncle, or you may just disappear like your predecessor Mason.[/SIZE]

[quote name='indifference'][COLOR="Indigo"]You are [B]not[/B] to leave High Czenoble because we [[SIZE="1"]Shy & Sandy[/SIZE]] have horrible things in store for your characters! I'd lock the doors and bar the windows kiddies. Especially ones named Macey and Eva... especially Eva. :p *evil laughter*[/COLOR][/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Suddenly Daedalus looks so much more responsible for taking Harrison with him onto the Sentinel that I originally thought he would. Guess Daedalus isn't going to be killed by Harriet for endangering their son after all, huh Crys ? ^_~[/SIZE]

[CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/daedalusavatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/dawlish-chronicle.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/harrison-chronicle.jpg[/IMG] [/CENTER] [indent][size=1]Well, he knows the basics it seems, Daedalus thought absently as the pair continued to move through the standard Czenovian starting sword stances. Harrison was confident in his movements as well, at least on a sub-conscious level, the look of confusion he wore was understandable, but at least his steps never faltered because of it. Given his size and build, Daedalus thought he could probably hold his own against most of the normal troops in a swordfight, even if he was four years younger than even the rawest recruit. The only problem there of course was no intelligent trooper would get into a swordfight while he had his rifle on him. Still wordlessly Daedalus moved from the aggressive posture of the last style to his original neutral defensive stance. "[b]Good Harrison. Now, I want you to attack me as if you intended to kill me.[/b]" The slightly confused expression on Harrison's face expanded into utter bewilderment. "[b]What ? We're just sparring.[/b]" Daedalus sighed, shaking his head as Harrison's guard dropped a little. It was enough, gripping the wooden training sabre in his natural one hand style, he struck forward and drove the end of the blade into Harrison's midsection, causing his son to fall to the floor spluttering and winded. Dwalish looked away with a slight smile, clearly remembering his own first spar with his father and the sensations Harrison was going through now. Daedalus didn't move, not even a flicker of concern on his hardened face. "[b]Get up Harrison.[/b]" The boy coughed several more times, his breathing was deep but rapid, gulping in air to replace what had been driven out by Daedalus' thrust. "[b]WHAT... THE HELL... WAS THAT FOR ?!![/b]" "[B]It's never "just sparring" Harrison.[/b]" Harrison's pained expression became mixed with even more confusion. "[b]What...do you mean ?[/b]" Sighing again, Daedalus half-closed his eyes, Harrison would understand eventually. "[b]Real learning comes only from real danger. Now get up, and this time, don't hold back.[/b]" Comprehension dawned on Harrison's face. Using the sword as a level, he pushed himself back to his feet shakily. His breathing had returned almost completely to normal. Good, Daedalus thought, he's serious this time. "[b]So that's why we have no padding...[/b]" "[b]Exactly.[/b]" "[b]Then...[/b]" Tightening his grip around the hilt of the wooden weapon Harrison moved into an attacking stance, raising the sword over his head. His father's stance didn't change, his sword held out and horizontal across his chest. "[b]... I won't hold back.[/b]" "[b]Good.[/b]" It was Harrison who made the first attack, running forward, and slamming the wooden blade down against his father's defence before shifting his posture an redirecting for a left side attack which, if the weapons were real, would be a fatal slash. Barely moving, Daedalus blocked the strike and went on the assault. His strength was considerably greater than Harrison's, as was his skill, but Harrison's agility and speed were better than his own. In reality though, Harrison could never win their fight, all Daedalus really wanted was the push his son to fight as hard as he possibly could. Striking out, Daedalus knocked Harrison's guard aside, pushing the boy off his centre of balance. He was slightly impressed by how quickly Harrison recovered from the attack, as he drove forward for a stab through his father's chest. Parrying, Daedalus brought his blade down hard on Harrison's forearms, causing him to drop the sword. Daedalus finished the fight by striking at son's chest, sending him tumbling of his feet to the ground. Picking up the two swords, Daedalus tossed them over to Dwalish, who returned them to their designated place in the training rack. Without further word, Daedalus turned and left the room, casting a single glance to Harrison who remained face down on the mat. "[b]You did well.[/b]" Harrison pushed himself up off the mat, staring at his brother who had his back turned, reordering the weapon's rack. "[b]I lost...[/b]" Dwalish chuckled. "[b]Of course you lost. You could never have won.[/b]" Turning silently, Dwalish watched as Harrison's face contorted into an upset scowl. "[b]Dad didn't even say anything afterwards !![/b]" "[b]Not for the reason you think. You're getting the same training as I did, and the same training dad did. If he had spoken to you after the fight, it would have been an admonishment. The fact he said nothing means he's proud of you.[/b]" "[b]I...I don't understand.[/b]" Dwalish looked away for a moment, trying to phrase his words properly as he sat down next to his little brother, placing a hand on his shoulder. "[b]When dad finished in CHAOS, he chose to travel the New Globe for a few years. This was before the Mine Wars of course. It apparently caused some friction between him and grandfather.[/b]" "[b]What kind of friction ?[/b]" "[b]Well, dad was originally the one expected to take over Magitech after grandfather, not uncle Leonhart. But I don't he ever wanted to do that, preferring life in the military, or just working in a laboratory to corporate business. Anyway, dad left for the New Globe to not only get away from his father, but to "become a wiser man", or so he claims, I don't know how true that last part is though. I think really he just wanted to develop his own identity outside of being the Almagest heir...[/b]" "[b]I never knew that...[/b]" Dwalish shrugged his shoulders. "[b]Why would you ? It's not like he tells people much about himself, now quit interrupting. While he was in the New Globe apparently he stayed in a country called Oyashima for a few years. Nobody had even heard of the Almagests, although they were aware of Czenovia, so he was treated like a normal person. When he talks about the place, it?s always with a smile.[/b]? ?[b]What does that have to do with now ?[/b]? ?[b]While he was there little brother, he lived in their culture, their language, their foods, even the way they fight, and Oyashima apparently has the best sword-fighting styles in the whole world. I don?t remember the name of man who trained dad, but he told me he had to prove himself worthy even to be considered for training. It?s not like here, where he could just walk into somewhere and people would fawn over him.[/b]? ?[b]So how did he prove himself ?[/b]? Dwalish shrugged again. ?[b]I don?t know, he never told me. But when he came back to Czenovia a few years later, there wasn?t a person alive who could beat him in a swordfight... and now he?s passing that same training to you, like he did with me. That?s why he said nothing, he?s training you the same way his master trained him.[/b]? Harrison gave his brother a weak smile. ?[b]I understand. Thanks Dwalish.[/b]? His brother exhaled derisively. ?[b]Sure, it?s not like I want a cry-baby aide now do I ?[/b]? Leaning over, Harrison pushed his brother hard in the shoulder smiling more broadly. ?[b]Hey, shut up.[/b]? ?[b]Come on, we?ve got duty.[/b]? ?[b]Alright.[/b]? [CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/daedalusavatar.jpg[/IMG] [/center] Rest his chin on his intertwined hands, Daedalus tried to make sense of what had occurred since the rebellion. Litheway had left the ready-room in a Spartan condition, which suited Daedalus just fine. A new set of orders had arrived the morning Daedalus had been promoted from Fleet Command. Apparently the ship which had destroyed the Vigilant had been positively identified as the Cygnus, belonging to Jack Deacon. His orders were to find and arrest Deacon as soon as possible for trial. As much as Daedalus disagreed with Rosier?s tactics in using the gunship and the fact Jack was a member, if a distant one, of the family, he would hunt the pirate down without hesitation. His mind kept flashing back to the family seal, the Almagest Lion. His most dangerous creations were sealed inside Mount Grail, but one, beyond all others had to be kept safe, as impossible as it was to occur, if it fell into rebel hands, it could entirely turn the tide of the rebellion in their favour.[/size][/indent]

[SIZE="1"]And here I thought you and Beth were such a [I]virginal[/I] couple Rach... How disappointing. ;) [/SIZE]

[quote name='James'][font=franklin gothic medium]I think the point was that, if there is a rebellion occurring in New Czenoble, people would have to wonder what would happen to the factories there. I do think that's a legitimate point. Although I'm sure the Underdogs don't necessarily want to destroy the whole economy or anything.[/font][/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]James does have a legitimate point Sandy, with the rebellion going on I'm sure people in High Czenoble will have to consider it's effects on their lives, and what potential changes they'll have to make if it succeeds.[/SIZE]

[quote name='Raiha'][COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"]Maybe 'Anywhere But Here' would've been more suitable? I don't know, she doesn't appear to have categorically any prospects at home, and in the absence of character guidance from her creator....mostly just pick the ideas out of hats is what we're going to end up doing.[/FONT][/COLOR][/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]I think that's actually the case for a lot of the Almagest members, Rosengard and Magitech seem to be the only things that really keeps them together as a family unit. Who knows the effect of selling the latter will actually have on the family if it occurs ? But it does make sense that some of the younger Almagests want to stretch their wings a little.[/SIZE]

[quote name='TwistedChick']There will always be holes in every story. I guess what really upsets me is that I notice them, not that they exist. If only I didn't know about them I wouldn't be distracted by them. [/quote] [SIZE="1"]Yeah, I think it's the same for me. I always end up noticing things that don't really make sense and then tend to dwell on them a little too much. I suppose uber-fans like us just make regular fans thankful they can ignore the smaller plot-holes. ^_^[/SIZE] [quote name='TwistedChick']It's interesting to think that living in a different place would reflect itself in your lifespan. Maybe the stronger your reiatsu the longer you live? Perhaps that's really why those in the 13 squads live so long - they're more powerful than the others. If not everyone in Soul Society lives hundreds or thousands of years, then the balance wouldn't be as big a problem. The new children being born in Soul Society would account for the growth in population of the real world. And those few that live seemingly forever would pale in significance to the vast hordes of lower spiritual power when it comes to keeping the balance. Then, maybe it really would matter if the Quincy destroy hollows instead of "cleansing" them, or whatever. But, then again, it could be that [I]everyone[/I] is supposed to live for a frickin' long time and they just can't continue having children after a certain age, keeping the total population stable. (I mean, if people who live to be 1000 can have kids until they're "middle-aged"...every single person could have 8 generations of grand-kids before they died. What would [I]that[/I] do for the balance? 'Eek' is all I have to say.) That would mean that people in Soul Society would all be dying off just as regularly as people in the real world, just all around the same [I]extremely[/I] old age after perhaps having a few children. So it would resemble standard living here...just delayed.[/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Heh, I think it's better we just accept it's a plot-hole and move on, otherwise I think we'll end up going insane before we reach any kind of satisfactory conclusion.[/SIZE]

[INDENT][SIZE="1"]Sorry it took so long, I wanted to see all the episodes of the show before writing the sign up. [B]Name:[/B] Bai Hu [B]Age:[/B] 42 [B]Gender:[/B] Male [B]Appearance:[/B] [url=http://hyung-taekim.org/gallery/albums/userpics/10001/tristan.jpg]Bai Hu[/url] as obvious from his physical appearance is an intimidating man, at just over six feet in height, his muscular build is far more akin to an Earthbender than a Firebender. Bai has an almost perpetual look of thought on his face, which goes unbroken even in the heat of battle. [B]Nation:[/B] N/A [B]Element:[/B] Fire [B]Weapon:[/B] Firebending Master. [B]What was your character doing when they heard news of Wu Ren's death?[/B] Bai watched disinterestedly as the group of bounty hunters drew closer to his table. Slowly swallowing the remainder of his jasmine tea, he placed the fragile china cup back down onto the table before locking eyes with the leader. "[b]Please withdraw from here. I have no interest in fighting you.[/b]" Dishevelled and reeking of cheap alcohol, the man merely spat on the carpet between them and smirked, revealing a set of badly rotten teeth. "[b]'Fraid I can't do that Hu, price on your head is just too damn high, and I aim to collect it.[/b]" It was obvious a fight was going to break out, such a shame really, the tea shop would likely be damaged extensively and he had found it to be a very relaxing place. The owner was looking over at Bai in a pleading manner, obviously thinking exactly the same thing. Sighing, he pushed himself out of the seat and motioned to the leader. "[b]As I said, I have no interest in fighting you. However, if you wish to try and capture me, I will not allow it to occur here. I will meet you all outside in a moment after paying for my tea.[/b]" Removing several coins from his jacket, Bai walked calmly towards the owner. The old man he'd learned had operated the tea shop for the last sixty years, apparently the Jasmine Dragon had been in operation for over two centuries at this point, he would not allow it to be ruined by these ruffians. Dropping the currency onto the counter, he bowed while smiling politely. "[b]Thank you for the tea. It really is the best in Ba Sing Se.[/b]" "[b]QUIT SCREWING AROUND !!![/B]" The blow came roughly and not unexpectedly, ducking slightly, Bai lashed out a kick to knock the offender hunter off his feet and to the ground. He sighed again more loudly this time, some people just had no manners at all. Leaning down, he struck the man hard in the face knocking him unconscious. "[b]It seems bounty hunters have no honour at all.[/b]" "[b]LEE !!![/B]" "[B]I'd ask you all to withdraw, but I already know it's not going to happen. Please do not attempt to attack me again until we are outside.[/b]" He smiled slightly as the two individuals blocking the doorway moved to allow him passage, at least they had some semblance of sense. The street outside was mostly deserted, the evening sun barely visibly above the great city walls and the thunderstorm in the sky. There was a brain in the group somewhere if they chose to attack him as his power began to wane, it was only a pity they badly over-estimated the effect of sundown on a firebending master. The leader withdraw a badly notched katana, just looking at it was enough to tell Bai it was old, something he'd probably stolen and never taken care of. "[b]Now we're gonna getcha Hu. Nowhere to run.[/b]" "[b]I am no intention of running from you. You are not that great a threat.[/b]" Inhaling deeply though his nose, Bai moved his arms in a circular pattern, any seasoned bounty hunter, or at least one who had bothered to do research the target would have some idea of what was going to happen, but from the blank looks on their faces, the group was made up of complete novices, they wouldn't even have time to react. As the lightning shot from his finger-tips, Bai watched with some amusement as comprehension broke across the leader's face just as he slammed into a nearby water trough. The remaining hunters simply dropped their weapons and ran for what they assumed to be their lives. "[b]Pathetic.[/b]" Bai murmured in disgust. Brushing down his clothes, he re-entered the Jasmine Dragon, noting the expression of shock on the old man's weathered face. "[b]You're alright ?[/b]" "[b]Yes.[/b]" "[b]Another tea ?[/b]" "[b]Thank you.[/b]" The renewed peace was broken as a small child burst through the doorway soaked to the skin, he was gripping an equally wet sheet of paper with large print across the front of it. "[b]GRANDPA ! GRANDPA ![/b]" "[b]Chan ? What's going on ?[/b]" "[b]It's the Avatar grandpa, he's been killed in the Avatar state !![/b]" "[b]What ?! Chan, please, show me the newspaper.[/b]" "[b]By the Great Wall, he's right...[/b]" Suddenly the thunderstorm made a lot more sense...[/SIZE][/INDENT]

[quote name='Memphis'][COLOR="Red"][SIZE="1"]Slight correction. Hitsugaya fought with Shao Lu Fong (or whatever his name is.), but all the same, he was nearly torn apart lol. But people would argue that's only because his powers was limited.[/SIZE][/COLOR][/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Yeah, admittedly he killed him pretty quickly after using the Limit Release, but it's still pretty disgraceful that he couldn't kill him without needing it.[/SIZE] [quote name='Memphis'][COLOR="red"][SIZE="1"]I don't know. In some ways, I think (again, no way to back this up, nor any reason... A bunch of jibberish lol) that Aizen, Urahara, Kyoraku, Ukitake, Isshin became captains around the same time. Although, I have to re-read to see if Kyoraku and Ukitake became captains before everybody else, because I don't remember too much of the conversation.. (I need a life lol) I can't remember if Yamamoto said that Ukitake and Kyoraku became the first 2 captains, or if they were the ones he trained, and was just happy when they became captains.[/SIZE][/COLOR][/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Well we know Kyouraku and Ukitake were the first two after Yamamoto, because Yama-jii says during their fight that they were the first two to graduate from the captain's school he created. I imagine that amounts to being the same as them being the two earliest currently serving captains after the commander. Unfortunately with the others it's all just speculation.[/SIZE] [quote name='TwistedChick']So, unless someone from Soul Society is involuntarily called to the human world as a replacement when someone dies (something we know isn't the case since we've heard nothing of people randomly disappearing - I mean, surely it would be a random lottery that not even those in the 13 squads would be protected from), the balance of the universe is lost. The only other option is that the vast majority of humans never go to Soul Society. They are simply instantly reborn as other humans. (This is one of the simple reasons why reincarnation is a fairly obvious no-no in reality. 1) "Balance" is impossible when in one hand you claim every living thing is simply recycled material and in the other you have an exponentially growing total population. 2) What would a slug have to do to "move up or down the chain"? and 3) [I][B]Why?[/B][/I] - I definitely don't want to turn this into a religious debate. I'm just stating the obvious.:animesmil) [/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Yeah, admittedly it is hard to see how they balance it, further screwed by the fact that Quincy obliterate souls rather than simply "bleaching" them like the Shinigami do. I doubt souls are just randomly called, though. Really, that's something Kubo needs to explain. I always assumed that souls in Soul Society must die at a similarly constant rate to those of the real world, even despite the live-expectency, which even then fluctuates depending on the area.[/SIZE]

[quote name='Sandy']They served together in the Mine War. Anna Grimalkin was Leonhart's underling and lover, while Patrice was at home waiting for his newly-wed husband to return from the war front. Anna is from New Czenoble, so she wouldn't have ever met Leonhart if it weren't for the war. Although Leonhart loved Patrice, and had children with her, he also couldn't stop loving his dear friend and supporter Anna Grimalkin. It's notable, however, that Henry was conceived much after Patrice had died while giving birth to the twins. And before Leonhart married Bavaria out of convenience. The fact remains that Leonhart could have never married Anna because of their different statuses. Both of them are old-fashioned in that sense. Enough info for you? ;D[/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Yep, I had a feeling that was the case, I just wanted to make sure.[/SIZE]

[quote name='James'][font=franklin gothic medium]On the other hand, I don't know how rational I'd be if my partner's mistress were living in the house and relying on the family's money for years![/font][/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]That is a fair point James, but I'd hardly say she's been relying on the family money for years. Yes, she's been living at Rosengard, but isn't the the overall head of the servants ? I don't imagine she's just doing the job for fun. I wonder how long the relationship between Leonhart and Anna has been going on, they've known one another since they were in their twenties. Josh/Sandy, any info there ?[/SIZE]

[quote name='Rachmaninoff']Well... that was... O_O Definitely one of the darker posts and deaths so far.[/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Yeah, I particularly liked being killed by having my head smashed in with a mug, makes me regard my tea as being potentially more sinister now. Petie's request reminds me a little of Kill Adam, at least when he was talking about the leader and three minions biting the dust, or The Crow.[/SIZE]

[SIZE="1"]No complaints from me about Aaryanna's two Nifties, as Rach said, she's definitely Nifty enough to earn both, and it doesn't hurt you used my nomination twice Justin. ;) Anyway, another year down, and already looking forward to the excitement of Nifty Fifty '09. [/SIZE]

[quote name='TwistedChick']So... you kinda agree with me? Or not? Maybe? I don't actually have any real knowledge of the subject, since until yesterday or whenever I'd never even wondered about it. It just seems like we've been exposed to a bit of shuffling within the ranks. [/quote] [SIZE="1"]It's a little of both actually, I disagree that captains would be replaced multiple times in something as small as a fifty year period, but I agree that the Gotei 13 are still used to a shifting captains roster, at least relatively, becauase Shinigami can live for so long. Really I think for the reasons I already gave in the bullet points it makes little sense that captains are replaced any more often than every few hundred years unless there's a incident which kills multiple captains.[/SIZE] [quote name='TwistedChick']What we really need is Kubo to just come out and produce a list detailing the history of the 13 squads. I don't think a publisher will go for it, though. They'd probably argue it's better to leave some mystery in every piece of art. Whatever.[/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Yeah, it's sort of like Naruto and the Hidden Villages, we'd like more info, but it's probably linked to future plots.[/SIZE]

[quote name='Shy'][size=1]He is just as concerned with social standing and honor as she is, so he'll be more than willing to wait until Bavaria has been given a proper mourning period. Just think of what the papers would say![/size][/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]For Bavaria, I don't imagine her mourning period will be too long, if poor Leonhart's the afters of Leonhart's funeral were any indication. As for the papers, well, with the revolution going on, if they have enough time for gossip, they have enough time to be arrested and executed for treasonous slander against the monarch.[/SIZE]

[FONT=Franklin Gothic Medium][SIZE=1][quote name='TwistedChick']I think these people are more accustomed to change than we may think.[/quote][/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=1][FONT=Franklin Gothic Medium][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]I just can't see that as being realistic because I don't think captains get killed/replaced that often. We all saw the shock that Soul Society reacted with to Aizen's death, and he was perceived at least to be one of the weaker captains, or so it seems. [/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Really I find the captain roster to be one of the most confusing things, and I really think it shows further manipulations from Aizen. I mean the three oldest captains are Yamamoto, Kyouraku and Ukitake but after that things get really confusing.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Aizen, Unohana and Urahara all became captains after those three, though the exact times are unknown.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Gin and Byakuya became captains at the same time, which means that either their two squad captains were killed in the one incident, or one was killed and the other was Isshin.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Tousen and Komamura became captains around the same time I assume, which means that two other captains died around a similar period to one another. The fact that three of Aizen's former squad became captains is a little suspicious I think, but that's counter-acted by the fact Byakuya said that it was incredibly rare for someone to achieve Bankai and therefore rare to become a captain.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Next come Soifon, Mayuri and Hitsugaya who all seem to have become captains after Urahara's departure from Soul Society, which occurred sometime in the last century.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Kenpachi we have no idea actually when he became a captain, although from the way Tousen spoke, he may have been a captain when Kenpachi became one.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]So yeah, you're right when you say people are probably used to a relatively often changing captain roster, at least for souls which can live over a thousand years but even that in itself doesn't make sense for a few reasons.[/SIZE][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]One, we know that someone usually has to have bankai to become a captain, Kenpachi is the exception here because he's already as strong/stronger than most bankai wielding captains.[/SIZE][/FONT][/LIST][LIST] [*][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Two, as I've already said Byakuya said it was incredibly rare for someone to achieve bankai, to the point where they're names are forever etched into Soul Society's history and I assume those individuals are also captains. That does flow slightly against what we've seen in that Renji, Ikkaku and Ichigo all have bankai and are not captains, but I imagine them to be a very big set of exceptions rather than the rule. [/SIZE][/FONT][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Really, for Renji to achieve bankai in only fifty years as a Shinigami is really impressive, as he did it the long way, as opposed to Ichigo.[/SIZE][/FONT][/LIST][LIST] [*][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Three, captains are really freaking powerful, Ichigo was about the level of a normal Shinigami, or a low seated officer at the start of the show/manga, and yet Byakuya took him out as if he were absolutely nothing at only a fifth of his power with just his sealed sword. Similarly, only Vasto Lorde provide a real danger to captains and they're exceptionally rare and don't move outside Hueco Mundo from what we've learned. Add to that that Isshin killed an incomplete Arrancar Grand Fisher with just his sword in a single strike, yeah, I think I've made the point.[/SIZE][/FONT][/LIST][LIST] [*][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Four, captains seem to live a hell of a long time, Yamamoto is over two millenia old, I imagine Kyouraku and Ukitake are over a thousand with the other captains getting younger until you get to Hitsugaya. So I just find it odd that there could be a level of change occurring where we have multiple captains changing in one squad.[/SIZE][/FONT][/LIST] [LIST] [*][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Five, when Ichimaru, Aizen and Tousen leave Soul Society, their lieutenants replace them, but are not promoted to the rank of captain. Now, actually this is where it's possible for place-holding to occur as you said could have happened between Isshin and Hitsugaya, as perhaps he was the first person to achieve bankai and fill the empty spot.[/SIZE][/FONT][/LIST][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Meh, as I said, very confusing.[/SIZE][/FONT][/FONT][/SIZE]

[quote name='Sandy']On the other hand, we don't have an eternity to wait for them to get properly acquainted, nor do we need to. If we want to, Primas can surely make Bavaria his queen with a snap of his fingers. It would be just like in the "good old days", when the marrying couple barely met before their wedding day. ;D[/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Sandy, I've now got Czenovia's main Air-Fleet under my command, do not make me commit regicide to keep a crown from touching Bavaria's head. ;)[/SIZE] [quote name='Malkav']So...I'm gonna need a bigger boat.[/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]And a prayer, after attacking the Vigilance you're now a wanted fugitive, and Daedalus is the one after you.[/SIZE]

[quote name='TwistedChick']Nice way of putting it. They're kind of the embodiment of the struggle for dominance between the three jutsu types. [/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Yeah, which is what really sums up the idea of the Sannin, individually they're all strong, but they can be beaten by the opposing force against them. It reminds me of a picture I saw on deviantART explaining why Sasuke shouldn't have been able to beat Deidara based on Pokémon. Ah, [url=http://sractheninja.deviantart.com/art/Naruto-Sasuke-Fails-At-Pokemon-59684795]here it is[/url]. Poor Sasuke, it's just too easy to mock him.[/SIZE]

[CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/daedalusavatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/harriet-chronicle.jpg[/IMG] [/CENTER] [INDENT][SIZE="1"]Still no word...no, there would be no word. His office was silent, the pale moonlight casting a sombre glow in the pitch coloured room. Behind the large exotic timber desk Daedalus could hear only his own pained breathing, mixed with barely unshed tears. He regarded the old bottle in front of him, a present from Leonhart...how long had he had it at this point ? Daedalus couldn't remember, now had just seemed the time to open it. He hadn't bothered with a glass... like so many other things, it was just unnecessary. The amber coloured alcohol burned all the way down his throat, it didn't matter... lately life had begun to lose a lot of it's sense of meaning for the oldest still-living Almagest. Gripping a small sienna coloured photograph in his right hand, he took another stiff drink from the open bottle on his desk. Helen... he'd never been able to protect her from anything, she was too like her mother, always wanted to experience things for herself first-hand, always... It had been a bright summers day... some fourteen years beforehand. The differences were obvious, Daedalus hair still retained some of it's blond colour, Dwalish stood next to his father in their fleet uniforms, he'd just made captain the time it was taken. Mason had stood quietly next to his mother... another part of his life he had yet to fix in his limited time, he just didn't think Mason would ever let his father back into his life. And then there was Helen, holding her new baby brother confidently in her arms, she was only nineteen... so, so young... Daedalus had known, somehow that she was already gone, his beautiful, dedicated daughter. She had never caused him so much as one worry in life. Despite his cold exterior, he had always taken an interest in his children, though never knowing how to properly express it. She hadn't ever been top of her class in CHAOS, but Helen had fire, drive, all she'd wanted to do was join the Royal Guard...He had been so proud of her, so to disappear without so much as a word to anyone, it was enough to let him know...she was... He raised the bottle to his lips and simply swallowed, allowing oblivion to overtake his senses. "[b]Daedalus ?[/b]" Harriet. He tried to open his eyes, but the morning sun burned them. Raising his hand to shield his face, he tried again, more slowly. The world suddenly came back into focus, along with all his pain and grief, he had failed her too, his beloved wife, he had allowed them to take their child away. "[b]You never came to bed last night...[/b]" "[b]I know.[/b]" Wordlessly, he watched as she picked the bottle up off the desk and place it in his waste-bin. Her eyes were red and puffy, obviously she'd been crying as well. Daedalus rose slowly from the chair, and held his wife tightly against himself. It was enough, she sobbed into his chest as his own tears trickled down his face, it was all part of healing, he'd learned it so many times before... it just never got any easier to lose someone you loved with all your heart. "[b]I'm so sorry Harriet. I...I should have been there with her... I should have picked up the signals...[/b]" Reaching up, she pushed a bedraggled lock of his silvery-white hair from in front of his face. Her eyes were still streaming, but her expression was calm, maternal even. "[b]It's so like you Daedalus, other people hurt us and you blame yourself. It's selfish really, but one of the things I love about you. You always make me feel safe...It wasn't your fault, no matter how badly you think of yourself, it never will be.[/b]" His vision misted over again with fresh tears, they stood there, silently for what seemed like an eternity. "[b]Lord Daedalus ?[/b]" Three sharp knocks at the door broke the calm. Slowly wiping his eyes on his sleeve, Daedalus walked over and unlocked it. Gravius stood there, his appearance was ever perfectly maintained, but the expression on his face was one of deep concern. "[b]What is it Gravius ?[/b]" "[b]King Mideus sir, he's passed away...[/b]" "[b]What ?[/b]" "[b]Yes, but that's not all... Daedalus, it's erupted into complete anarchy.[/b]" "[b]Gravius, please sit and tell me everything.[/b]" Taking a chair, Daedalus simply listened to what had transpired in the hours past. He couldn't believe it had all occurred so quickly, but what galled him most had been Rosier's response, the fool, he'd pushed things further out of control with heavy handed tactics. Harriet had already brought her hand to cover his mouth, even if she had been born into wealth, she had always sympathised with the plights of the people of New Czenovia as human beings, any death had always bothered her. "[b]Anything else my friend ?[/b]" Slowly Gravius broke eye-contact with Daedalus, removing a letter from inside his jacket and handing it over. Instantly Daedalus recognised the Royal Seal, but of even great concern to him was the fact he recognised the handwriting style as being Mideus' own. Quickly Daedalus broke the wax holding the envelope closed, a single sheet of paper slid out into his waiting hand. [i]Daedalus, my friend. If you are reading this, then I have passed on, and Czenovia is still in strife. In these dark days, friends such as you must take a greater role than ever before in defending the nation we have helped to build. At the same time as this letter, military orders were issued promoting you to Air-General of the First Fleet effective-immediately. Like so many years ago Daedalus, you are the only one who can protect us all, please my friend, do one last service in my memory. -Mideus Prosperous[/i] "[b]He really is gone then...[/b]" "[b]What did the letter say Daedalus ?[/b]" Sighing, he handed the letter over to Harriet. Her expression changed almost instantly from curiosity to concern. "[b]First Air-Fleet, then that means...[/b]" "[b]Yeah, I've been made responsible for Czenovia's internal defence... I imagine that includes dealing with the rebels...[/b]" "[b]Daedalus...[/b]" She extended her small hand out to grasp his own. "[b]I know. I will.[/b]" Pushing himself out of his seat, he kissed his wife before turning back to the now similarly standing Gravius. "[b]It seems I've just un-retired old friend.[/b]" "[b]Do you want me to come with you sir ?[/b]" Daedalus shook his head, as skilled as the ex-Sergeant-Major was, he needed him here protecting Harriet and the rest of the family. "[b]No Gravius, I want you to go find Dwalish and tell him to meet by my airship in about ten minutes, don't tell him anything though, I want to explain it myself.[/b]" "[b]Aye sir.[/b]" Harriet waited until Gravius had left the room before rising from her own seat and wrapping her arms around him. "[b]I'd ask you to consider turning down the request Daedalus, but I know you won't... Just please, be careful.[/b]" "[b]I promise I will.[/b]" He wanted nothing more than to be able to stay with her, but he couldn't, duty would not permit it. Breaking the embrace he strode out of his office to shower and change his clothes. It was going to be another difficult day. [CENTER][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/daedalusavatar.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/dawlish-chronicle.jpg[/IMG] [IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/harrison-chronicle.jpg[/IMG] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/catherinesaraavatar.jpg[/img] [/CENTER] "[b]So what was so vital you needed to speak to me about ?[/b]" Dwalish's arms were cross as he leaned against the exterior of the airship. "[b]We're going to collect you're brother first, I'll explain on the way.[/b]" The conversation had been quite one-sided, with Daedalus explaining the contents of the letter to his son while the latter sat silently absorbing the information with a stern expression. It was going to be awkward for them both, Dwalish was not only currently serving in the First-Fleet, but the executive officer of the Sentinel, meaning he now answered to his father as it’s new commander. Daedalus had no doubt about Dwalish’s professionalism in the matter, it would simply take time for them to adjust to one another. “[b]So why are we picking up Harry ?[/b]” It had been the one burning question on Dwalish’s lips since learning they were collecting his sibling. “[b]We’re taking him with us.[/b]” “[b]You’re not serious ?![/b]” “[b]Deadly.[/b]” Dwalish’s composure broke, he hadn’t been around his little brother much, due to his own career and the age gap between the two, but he still cared for his welfare. For their father to be taking him onto a battleship did not strike him as being particularly parentally-aware. “[b]Why ?[/b]” “[b]It’s the safest place for him at the moment... and I want you both close to me. I admit Dwalish, if you weren’t already serving on the Sentinel I’d have had you transferred aboard.[/b]” “[b]This is because of Helen isn’t it ?[/b]” His father didn’t respond. “[b]She knew the risks dad, it came with the job. You and I know that better than most people.[/b]” “[b]I know that God-damn it Dwalish !! It doesn’t make it any easier...I just... I just want you both to be safe alright ?[/b]” “[b]Yeah... I know.[/b]” The ship touched down outside of CHAOS just as the bell tolled the end of the day. Harriet probably already knew what Daedalus was doing, he’d read as much from her gestures and body-language. When this was all over, if he was still alive, she’d probably kill him. “[b]There’s Harry.[/b]” “[b]Where ?[/b]” “[b]In the first group coming out, Victoria is with him.[/b]” “[b]Alright, I’ll get him, you wait here.[/b]” “[b]Yes sir.[/b]” Dwalish gave a mock salute as his father left the airship. Somehow Harrison didn’t seem to have noticed his father’s approach, grasping his son’s shoulder, Daedalus was a little amused as the colour drained from his son’s face when he met his gaze. “[b]Dad, I...uh... Why’re you here ?[/b]” “[b]We need to talk..[/b]” If possible, Harrison’s face seemed to get even paler. What was going on ? “[b]Is there something you want to tell me Harrison ?[/b]” “[b]...Dad... I...uhhh... N...No...[/b]” Pinching the bridge of his nose, Daedalus wondered what possible trouble his son could have gotten into now. By the sound of it, Daedalus had simply asked the right question at the right time, at least keeping Harrison close meant he could keep an eye on him. “[b]Go wait with Dwalish in the airship, I need to talk to Catherine.[/b]” Harrison’s mouth opened, but no sounds came out, he simply grabbed his bag and walked slowly over to the airship. Briskly moving to Catherine’s office, he found his sister putting on her coat, ready to leave. “[b]Daedalus ? What‘re you doing here ?[/b]” “[b]I just came to collect Harrison Catherine...Listen, I won’t be around Rosengard for a while... I’m sorry to have to put you in this position... but I need you to be the one to try to stop Fontleroy’s attempts to sell Magitech.[/b]” “[b]Daedalus, what's going on ?[/b]” “[b]I’ve been recalled back into the military Catherine.[/b]” “[b]What ? How ?[/b]” “[b]King Mideus' orders.[/b]” “[b]Daedalus, Mideus is dead.[/b]” “[b]I know, but the orders predate it. I’m sorry Catherine, I don't have time to spare. Please, take care of yourself baby sister.[/b]” Catherine said nothing, her face was filled with disquiet for her eldest brother... her remaining brother. Turning on his heel, Daedalus left her office and marched back towards the airship. Harrison was sitting next to Dwalish, the colour had returned to his face, and from both their expressions, they were concocting some kind of story expected to satisfy Daedalus’ coming questions. “[b]Harrison, I don’t know what happened today that had you worried. If you don’t want to tell me, I won’t ask, I just want you to promise me you’ll try and not do anything dangerous.[/b]” “[b]Alright dad, I promise.[/b]” Moving out of the pilot’s seat, Harrison took the seat behind his father quietly. The airship gently rose from the grounds outside the Academy before darting into the skies towards Mount Grail and Czenovia’s military aerodrome. The military aerodrome was slightly smaller than it’s commercial counterpart, but far more heavily guarded, using the mountain itself as partial cover. To cross over this patch of terrain without permission meant almost certain death. Only moments after the thought had crossed Daedalus’ mind, a sharp female voice crackled over the radio. “[b]Unidentified airship, this is Air-Fleet Control, identify yourself or prepare to be treated as hostile.[/b]” Holding the mic to his mouth, Daedalus cleared his throat before speaking, he hoped the orders of his promotion had already arrived, it would be more than a little irritating to be shot out of the sky. “[b]Air-Fleet Control, this is Air-General Daedalus Almagest of the First Air-Fleet, please stand down and prepare for my arrival.[/b]” He could hear some low chatter over the radio. “[b]Air-General Almagest sir, we‘ve been informed of your arrival, congratulations on your promotion. However, we‘ve been asked to request you rendezvous directly with the Sentinel and Air-General Litheway. The ship is currently at Docking Platform Two.[/b]” “[b]Thank you Control, Air-General Almagest out.[/b]” The trip was platform was hardly exciting but Harrison’s face was still glued to the nearest window as he drank in the view. Docking Platform 2 was literally hewn into the side of Mount Grail, used for the maintenance of Czenovia’s largest military air-vessels. “[b]There she is.[/b]” Dwalish pointed towards the largest ship Harrison had ever seen in his life. It couldn‘t even really be called an airship, it was more like an air-battleship, and now his father was it’s commander with Dwalish. Harrison would definitely have to get a tour. “[b]Dwalish, can you pilot us in, I need to talk to Harrison for a minute.[/b]” “[b]Understood sir.[/b]” “[b]No need for sarcasm Dwalish.[/b]” “[b]Understood sir.[/b]” Daedalus sighed in defeat. “[b]Harrison, you‘re going to be staying with Dwalish and myself on board the Sentinel for the time-being, unfortunately they don‘t allow civilians on military ships, so you’re receiving a military commission to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant effective-immediately. There’s a uniform stored in the compartment over your seat, please change into it before we dock.[/b]” To his credit, Harrison seemed to take all the information in without question, reaching up and removing the uniform. Perhaps, Daedalus thought, he really was ready for this. Moving off into the back, Daedalus waited for Dwalish to dock the ship, doubtlessly Air-General Litheway would be waiting for him. The docking bay of the Sentinel was larger than Daedalus had expected, the Invincible’s have been considerable smaller by comparison, but then the ship itself was considerably larger than it’s predecessor from nearly half a century before. Harrison returned, trying to straighten his uniform as much as he could, inwardly Daedalus was very proud, even though he shouldn’t have been allowed join the military for another four years, he couldn’t help but admire how right the uniform looked on him. “[b]How does it look dad ?[/b]” “[b]Good son, very good.[/b]” “[b]Uhh, dad, what exactly will I be doing ?[/b]” “[b]You’re going to be Dwalish’s aide.[/b]” “[b]WHAT ?![/B]” Daedalus smiled as both brothers reacted exactly the same way. “[b]Why can’t he be your aide dad ?[/b]” Dwalish hadn’t looked away, but he was definitely annoyed by the idea. “[b]Because he doesn’t have a high enough rank to be a General’s aide Dwalish, plus it’ll be good for you.[/b]” Dwalish sighed, wondering whether or not this was simply revenge for his earlier sarcasm. [b]Alright, we’re landing now.[/b] There was a slight shudder as the smaller airship touched down in the bay, releasing the hatch, Daedalus moved down the small flight of steps with his sons in tow. A small, portly dark-haired man who looked to be about fifty stood in matching uniform to Daedalus with several other officers who saluted at his arrival. “[b]Air-General Almagest, welcome.[/b]” “[b]Air-General Litheway, thank you.[/b]” “[b]Colonel Almagest, welcome back.[/b]” “[b]Thank you sir.[/b]” “[b]Alright then, let the log show that at this time on today’s date, I've transferred command of the First Air-Fleet in accordance with King Mideus’ orders to Air-General Almagest. Good hunting Daedalus.[/b]” “[b]Thank you.[/b]” Saluting to one another, Litheway signalled a young woman who Daedalus assumed to be the General’s aide and walked towards a nearby military air-shuttle, smaller than Daedalus’ personal airship, they were used to move high ranking officers to and from their ships. Looking over the remaining officers, Daedalus turned to Dwalish. “[b]Colonel Almagest, I will now be conducting a tour of inspection, please lead.[/b]” “[b]Understood sir, this way.[/b]” Daedalus knew, without a doubt, the conflict was going to get a lot worse before it got better.[/size][/indent]

[quote name='TwistedChick']It would probably make a bit of sense if he'd been captain of squad Ten, though. Perhaps that's why Hitsugaya is so inexperienced. They've just been filling the spot Isshin left with the newbies. People keep getting shifted around, so it's a possibility.[/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]I don't know, a lot of theories have him as the 10th Squads captain, but I just can't picture it. Isshin hasn't been a captain in over fifty years, because if he had been, then Rukia would recognise him, and so far, she doesn't seem to have. Likewise, I just don't see Hitsugaya as being a captain for fifty years, it just, to me, doesn't fit with him being the youngest captain. Plus, his being the old 6th Squad captain would just make things so much more interesting, and hilarious.[/SIZE]

[quote name='indifference'][COLOR="Indigo"]I wonder what they are up to, after all, since when did Daedalus ever send for or bother to pick up Harrison after school got out. Let's see... I'll tell you... [I]never. [/I][/COLOR][/QUOTE] [SIZE="1"]Bah, just because your previously emotionally-neglectful father has decided to pick you up from school doesn't mean the whole world is coming to an end. Jeez, kids these days are so unappreciative. ^_~ [b][Edit][/b] OK, so there's my post trying to move on the story a little, I'll try and answer anyone's questions. Kathy, Catherine's interaction I assume takes place after her meeting with Lector.[/SIZE]