Espada Mission 2B - Dreams of Megalomania

[Kolbertt]

War has unleashed.

As you may know, there had been signs of resistance coming from revolutionary hollows living on “La Fortaleza” – Since we needed reliable, untraceable strength, we sent an Espada to deal with the head of the revolution. Vladimir, as he called himself, was swiftly slain and the revolutionary forces felt into chaos.

However, at the same time Vladimir’s assasination took place, a group of Fake Espada killed one of the 5 leading Adjuchas of the place. This, prompted the remaining leaders to start a political war in order to gain complete dominion over the lake of the place.

That lake in particular, has the propierty to calm down Hollows, allowing them to live a peaceful life while totally supressing their killing instincts. Weak Hollows can live on weekly doses of poluted water, but complete deprivation seems to affect them in weird and painful ways. The Adjuchas abuse this fact to keep them in place. Blocking the water ways, the Hollows are forced to fight against others to gain territories and more followers. The main goal of the Adjucha’s is the assasination of each other. Up till this moment“La Fortaleza” had been declared a peace zone since most Hollows refused to fight, Dios de Diablo shouldn’t show any kind of interest as of yet, but the impeding war may aid his cause...

The interest of the Espada lies on the fact that Hollow Colonies are a focus of followers for Dios de Diablo. Plus, the fact that this whole genocide is attributed to Espada action, we have the duty to clean our name.

Our strategists suggest that killing the 5 great Adjucha will be enough to grant temporary peace. That is, until a new group of strong enough hollows emerge, but that won’t be happening in at least 100 years from now.

The citizens of the place used to be quiet enough among themselves, but now, it’s more appropiate to call that colony a war zone. There’s paranoia, fear and betrayal.

Also, we’d like to get our hands on a pure sample of this water... If we find a way to cease Hollow Hunger, we may not only prevent Dios de Diablo from gaining more followers, but also grant Hollow’s a more decent lifestyle. Unpure water samples do not serve this purpose, and dissappear once exposed to air.

It’s also highly possible that the Fake Espada are stil around. You must dispose of them as to leave the Espada Name untained. To help your way around, we have a Spy which has already worked with the Espada’s, and a Fraccion of the Third. Those two should be able to guide and help you.

Take into account, that this Fake Espada’s levels are unknown, and if by any chance, they happen to be associated with “Los Arcanos” it won’t be an easy fight.

Essentially, our goal here is to gain followers, or at the very least, decrease our enemies.
In short, your goals are:
1 – Kill the remaining 5 Grand Adjucha, as to bring peace in the name of the Espada.
2 – Kill the Fake Espada
3 – Retrieve a pure water sample.
4 - Your lifes are precious to us. Remember to live in front of everything, and if your life is on peril, don’t hesitate to run.

Whenever you are ready, ask the Third Espada for directions. He’ll be the one to guide you there.

Mircalla Zolmao – Primera Espada

Rules for Espada mission 2!
1 – Unlike Espada Mission 1, this one is open to everyone. Hollows willing to participate, fell free to PM me. They’ll be either introduced in “La Fortaleza” or be called by the Espada directly if they’ve introduced themselves before.
2 – Given the social reclusion of the 7th Espada, and the dissapearance of the 9th – I’m obliged to tell: If for X reason you till be unable to continue posting (lack of interest, personal issues, cramped fingers, etc) tell me and your character will be taken out for the time being. That way, other’s can continue with the fun.
3 – If you discover the enemies weakness, the fight is pretty much over ;) – But for plot reasons, they shall not be killed :)

[Final Boss]

A loud voice resounded throughout the halls of Las Noches, this voice belonged to the 5th Espada Lala.

"Lulu! Where the hell is the third Espada?!"

As usual, the 5th Espada was followed by her twin sister Lulu. Lulu cringed at Lala's booming voice that echoed throughout the palace.

"Lala, please don't yell. The third Espada's chambers should right....here."

Lulu stopped at a large, white door and lightly knocked but received no answer. Her sister casually walked up behind her, "Come on Lulu, you're not knocking loud enough!"

Lala pushed her sister aside and pounded on the door, "Hey! Anyone home?!" She continued smashing her tiny fist onto the door when suddenly it shattered under the immense pressure. Lala peeked her head in innocently, "Oops."

[Unicorn]

"Looking for a scientist or killing fake espada?" Nyarle opened one golden eye and looked down at the Hollow servant in her doorway.

"Yes, Decima." The servant responded respectfully. "I await to send your message about your decision.

Nyarle pondered her decision whilst she continued to sprawl full-length across her hammock, one arm dangling towards the ground.

"I like killing the fake espada." Nyarle said finally, then sat up gracefully, stretched and leapt 6 feet to the ground. "I will tell Tercera myself. Show me there."

Fabric swishing about her legs, she strolled behind the nervous Hollow servant. Several corridors later, she found a couple of kids breaking down a door. Nyarle moved around them to keep walking, but the Hollow servant had stopped and was staring at the kids with an uncertain expression.

"Well? Where is Tercera?" Nyarle asked impatiently, then followed the servant's arm pointing towards the broken door and the kids.

[Kolbertt]

"Noise... Pointless, disruptive, annoying..."

From the debris, and inside the Third Espada quarters, Auguste Pierrot, the second Espada appeared.

"Are thou thee ones who seeketh Eliel? The task and duty of letting thee know falls on thy. Eliel has left for an unseen change of fates, and is unavailable to help you. On it's place, thou'll be guided by moi"

At seeing Nyarle, Auguste smiled...

"It's a pleasure, to see you again, blossoming flower. Thy expect great deals from thee"

(OOC- First try at using archaic englihs:fu - But it fits with Auguste's bohemian and poetic style)

[Unicorn]

ooc: zomg Shakespeare!!
...

Nyarle sketched a slight bow. "Segunda. Pleasure is mine. I will not disappoint you."

She turned towards the pair of children. "Who are you, that are unpunished for breaking Tercera's door?"

[Final Boss]

Lala puffed out her chest and held her head up, "I'm Lala, the 5th Espada!" She pulled Lulu from behind her, "And this is my sister Lulu!"

Lulu briefly looked down towards the floor nervously before raising her head and introducing herself. "Umm, hello there I am Lulu the 5th Espada, it is a pleasure to meet you. I apologize about the door, we will send over our fraccion to fix it if necessary."

Lala brushed past her sister and gazed up at the feline Arrancar, "And who are you? Asking our names before givin' your own, where are your manners?"

[Unicorn]

ooc: Nyarle has a habit of referring to others by their numerical rank.
....

Nyarle looked down her elegant nose at one of the girls.

"Quinta speaks of manners." Her gaze flicked towards the broken door and back again at the child. Nyarle offered a slight yet unfriendly smile, and inclined her head politely.

"Nyarle, new Decima Espada. A pleasure to meet you both, Quinta."

[Kolbertt]

"Alas, thou who speakth of manners knock doors... in a rather literal meaning"

Auguste's way of moving was... artistic. He swung with elaborate and unnescesary movements, and waved his right hand like a Shakespearian actor. He approached the twins even more, and finally said.

"Thy are the Segunda Espada, Auguste Pierrot. Thee have seen me in the Espada Tea meeting. C'est vrai, Thy didn't speak. But ones words are unescesary when actions of others speak louder"

And of course, thy was busy reading a book under the table...

"Both Eliel and Nicolau were busy, and Lady Mircalla politelly asked me to take thee place... I'm here because of that. Introductions aside, my task is to escort thee. Once reaching our final destination, thou'll move on your own. Once preparations done are, thou'll speak to me, and we'll leave in a breeze.

Thy'll rest in the third Espada quarters. Until thou are ready"

Auguste turned his back on the Espada, and swiftly returned to an elaborated couch. He took out a book, and pretended to read it while monitoring the movements of the Espada...

[Final Boss]

"Quinta? I just told you my name's Lala. Not very smart are ya Nyarle?"

Lala redirected her attention up at the Segunda Espada, his manner of speaking was... confusing to say the least.

What's he saying Lulu?

Lulu listened intently to the rest of Auguste's introduction, as she translated his words into a more understandable way for Lala she nodded finally realizing what Auguste was saying. She entered the third Espada's room and looked around, her gaze set on the bed. She jumped onto the bed and laid flat on her back.

"Ahh this feels good. Lulu get over here."

Lulu walked over, "Lala you should ask before just jumping on someone's bed." She looked over towards Auguste, "We are ready anytime, we have had plenty of time to rest."

[Unicorn]

Nyarle ignored the child and listened to Auguste. So they were to rest in Tercera's room for now, until Auguste saw fit for further action? Fine by her.

"Segunda. I am ready at your call."

She walked slowly into the room, and hovered near the doorway. Nyarle didn't like intruding into someone else's territory, but Segunda allowed it. She looked around the lavish surroundings, picked out the highest spot, then bounded atop the large stone bookcase.

Flopping onto her chest in a languid sprawl, Nyarle continued to observe the surroundings alertly.

One child was already in Tercera's personal sleeping area, the other child was standing nearby. How incredibly rude. Nyarle licked her lips - if they decided to intrude on her territory and personal sleeping space, she won't let it go unpunished.

[Final Boss]

Lala got bored laying on the bed, she wasn't exactly tired and was in the mood to do something, anything. She looked up towards Nyarle with interest, she decided she would kill some time with her and walked over.

"So Nyarle..."

Lala slowly tried to pronounce Nyarle's name but fumbled letters around and ended up saying something like Nayrel.

"I've got a few question I wanna ask. When did you join the Espada? How did you join? Where's your tattoo at? Wanna see mine? Do you like playing tag? How about hide and seek? Do you have lots of friends? Where's your room at? Do you always land on your feet? Do you like dogs? How about..."

Lala spoke extremely quickly, almost to the point where no one would understand what she just asked. Lulu wandered over towards Lala while observing her surroundings, she interrupted her sister's rambling with a light tap on Lala's shoulder.

"Please Lala, you're supposed to let her answer."

"Fine, fine..."

Lala looked up at Nyarle and tried to wait patiently for some answers.

[BioBomber]

The moonlight shone down upon Relámpago and his latest construct of glass. He regarded it with a heavy gaze, disjointed memories stirring in the dusty recesses of his mind. It was himself, he suspected, again rendered in striking detail by the strange glassblowing process that he had perfected. Dressed in a kimono, he was bent down, arms outstretched, quite young this time. Probably as a child, looking into something reflective. Not that the reflection of the moon on a single memory told him anything at all about himself. He was almost unable to comprehend the expression on his face, he had become that much of a separate entity.

A small lizard scurried past in the sand as Relámpago's fingers emerged from the glaives that passed for hands. He flexed them idly and turned around. Tiny sonar pings told him where he was, and at a thought, he trundled off aimlessly, waiting for small fry food or another good memory.

[Kolbertt]

"Thy shall answer that" Auguste was expecting them to bring a fraccion or even equipment... He had foreseen that kind of attitude from Nyarle, but the fifth Fraccion as well?

"Nyarle-Kun was my protégée. 'T was thy, the one who suggested her to be tested. 'T was thy, the one who personally trained her. 'T was I, the one who opened up her doors. Thee Septima Espada took the... unwise... choice of facin' thee Espada in her actions. Septima thought too high of herself, and thee end she'd met, is one fit for the sin of pride"

"But Alas! Rebelión is also present in our business. Thy take it thou ain't familiar with "La Fortaleza", but thou must have heard of thee situation... There's a massive revellion going on, not too far from here. The place is inhabitated by hollows, and thou shall need the "Instincts" of the Tercera Espada...

But since Eliel ain't here, Thou shall find those "Instincts" with those he trusts the most..."

At that same time, from under the bed Lala was standing in, a majestic wolf appeared. It's fur of the purest white, a bone Mask covered it's face, and a massive hole in the middle of its thorax made it an obvious Hollow.

"Good God! May we leave before I swallow my ears?"

"Indeed, those instincts are personified in such a beautiful animal as this wolf... Thy'll escort you to the entrance, but once inside, thou'll be deprived of my company. Instead, thou'll be escorted by an Arrancar of trust, and Kaariel"

The wolf nodded in agreement.

"Kaariel'll be thee one to point allies. His instincts are as sharp as it's master, and will tell you who to trust. He senses betrayal and lies, no matter how deep they are. He'll also be a nice asset to your team."

"Now, let's go"

Auguste left the room and Las Noches. The complete team consisting of Auguste, Kaariel, Nyarle, Lulu and Lala headed to a seemingly, empty spot in the middle of Hueco Mundo. Las Noches was still visible, but it had the size of an avobe-average building, instead of it's massive size.

"T's the place"

Auguste swiftly kicked the sand. Under the upper layer of sand, a massive hole had appeared.

"Remember the objectives. The head of the remaining 5 Adjuchas in a silver plate. The heads of the fake Espada in a golden one.

Any last thought before entering?"

[Unicorn]

Nyarle had opened one eye lazily as she sensed one child's intention to approach hear. The questions were asked so fast, she was still considering if it was worth her time to respond when Segunda took over.

Kaariel the wolf had appeared then, and it seemed the hunt was on. Nyarle landed lightly on the ground, feet-first, then turned a slight predatory smile towards the kids. That was one answer for the curious little cub.

Segunda had led the way to a secluded spot outside the Palace, and had announced the mission objectives.

"Remember the objectives. The head of the remaining 5 Adjuchas in a silver plate. The heads of the fake Espada in a golden one.

Any last thought before entering?"

"And pure water in a diamond bowl." Nyarle spoke up, then turned to look at the rest of the team.

"I wish good hunting to all." She announced with a slight bow.

[Final Boss]

Lulu approached the hole and gazed down it, while she was busy examining the hole Lala ran up behind her and pushed her in.

"Haha! Bye bye Lulu!"

Lala quickly looked towards the others and gave them a friendly wave before diving head first into the hole.

[Kolbertt]

With a slight bow to Nyarle, Auguste agreed on their choice to leave. Not having anything else to say, he sat and started reading a white book.

Kaariel jumped down the hole as well.

A long fall after, everyone reached the famous "Fortaleza" - Unlike what the Sexta Espada had seen before, this place had nothing of the glory and peaceful feeling it had. Starting by the fact that most of the buildings around looked destroyed. Even right to the hole they had entered, layed a massive Worm like hollow, obviously dead.

Poorly created Arrancar wondered the place. Some more hollow than Arrancar. But they all shared the same face of distress... Contrasting with all this destruction, on the far away distance, a glorious wall of the purest white hid the central part of La Fortaleza.

"Are you the ones sent by the Espada?"

A male with blue short hair, dressed in human clothes, appeared. Ja'eq, or Julian Falso, would immediatelly recognize Depeche.

"Answer me"

[Unicorn]

@ Kol - Auguste commands mission 2B, not Nick. :D
...


Nyarle watched in faint amusement as the tamer cub went to check the portal, and the wilder cub playfully shoved her in, and then herself jumped in.

Instead of following the rash young cubs, she held her peace and calmly awaited further directions from Kaariel the appointed pack leader.

Auguste soon approved their departure and Kaariel leapt through the portal, Nyarle only a moment behind him.

Nyarle landed in a graceful crouch and immediately suppressed her power-signature whilst checking the sense and smell of her new surroundings. It was an unpleasant mixed odour of unhappiness, fear, decay and death.

Suddenly, a loud human-shaped male appeared, rudely demanding their identity. She eyed his throat and wondered how he'd taste like. But he didn't seem like her destined prey.

So Nyarle calmly stayed in her crouch, and glanced at Kaariel to judge his reaction to this newcomer.

[Final Boss]

Lala dropped down and landed playfully on Lulu causing both of them to roll across the ground. They were rudely welcomed by a male dressed as a human, whoever it was quickly demanded their identities. Lala ignored him and scanned the area, she walked up to the obviously dead hollow giving it a light kick out of boredom that sent the corpse a short distance away.

Lulu on the other hand was much more interested in the human-like man. She was aware of the possibilty that he could be a threat and left it to Kaariel to judge whether or not he would be a danger.

[Kolbertt]

Seeing how both of his companions were... Untalkative, Kaariel anwered.

"Yes, we are the ones sent by the Espada" -

"Excelent. Now, follow me"

Depeche was repulsed by this... envoys. Unlike the previous one, these didn't answer their question, and did unnescesary things, like playing around with the corpse of the once magestic Saibaba.

"I take you are familiar with the general structure of La Fortaleza, right? - If not, I'll give a detailed explanation. Then, I'll provide information on your target"

[Unicorn]

Nyarle eyed the blue-haired humanoid. So he was an ally after all. She relaxed and stood up.

"I take you are familiar with the general structure of La Fortaleza, right? - If not, I'll give a detailed explanation."

"I am not familiar with La Fortaleza. An explanation is appreciated." Nyarle responded. "Also, by what name are you called?"

[Final Boss]

After Kaariel identified the male as an ally Lulu relaxed, she observed the surroundings with slight disgust. She took interest in the magnificent white wall in the distance.

Lala walked up to the Arrancar and examined him rather rudely. She was curious as to why he was dressed as a human.

"So why are ya in human clothes? And where are your manners, demanding our name without giving your own. Reminds me of someone else I know."

She glanced at Nyarle as she finished her sentence and continued to stare at the male.

Lulu heard him offer an explanation on La Fortaleza and walked up curious to learn more about their environment.

"Yes I agree with Nyarle, an explanation on La Fortaleza would be beneficial to our mission."

[Kolbertt]

"Names are unimportant. My image and position have become irrelevant since the revolution began. I used to go by the name Depeche, but feel free to call me as you wish. As my clothes... they are a personal preference"

He said this last part with a bit of... tension... in his voice. He found that kind of question irrelevant to the mission. He was already displeased by the childish actions of the little girl, and now was royally pissed at her. But of course, he couldn't afford personal matters to affect his job.

"La Fortaleza" is composed of five different concentric sectors. The "Arrancar Slums", The "Hollow Bastion", the "Gillian Citadel", and the "Adjucha Abatis" - As you might have guessed, each one of those sections is inhabitated mostly by their namesake. Each sector is separated by walls of deathstone, strong enough to hold their inhabitants at bay. Other than that, the whole city is surrounded by a wall of similar material that merely rejects Hollows attention. This place we are right now, is the lowest spot of the city. Here, Arrancars gather as social trash to avoid the embarrasment of slavery inside the walls. Of course, when the war began, the higher ups decided to "show" their bravery and skill by taking out the highest amount of Arrancars in one shot. I must confess, the destroyed fields ain't that different from their original state. It was trash before, and it's ruined trash now. There's nothing here, except misery and death...

Each wall has a gate, which used to be guarded by the strongest of each sector. Other than that, walls are no-man's land. For one reason or another, Hollows go aggressive and feral near the walls, so you won't find many souls on it's edges...

And about that lake you must have heard about, it is located in the middle of the "Adjucha Abatis", but it streams around the whole city, reaching the outer edges until the "Hollow Bastion", where you can find it as small puddles. As I'm sure you might have heard, the Hollows are EXTREMELLY possesive of that lake's water, and will go beyond imagination to keep Arrancar away from it... Reason's still elude us, and the samples we've aquired from the outer edges are far too contaminated by Hollow residues to serve in our investigation"

"As you might have heard, the death of Vladimir was just one of the blows that caused the current state of La Fortaleza. Vladimir was raiding groups of Hollows against the Espada. His death came as a devastating blow to the moral of Hollows, and image of the Espada. Vladimir's death wouldn't have been so moving, where it not for the fact that the head of the Hedylidae clan was murdered at around the same time.

The Hedylidae, along with the Ditrysia, Rhopalocera, Hesperiidae and Parnassius clans were the elite of La Fortaleza. Living on the shores of the lake, they kept an uneasy peace with each other, while bombarding each other after a fakade. Each clan was headed by an Adjuchas of high level. The oldest, wisest, and strongest. His death at the hands of the fake Espada threw off the balance, and the other head clans threw themselves for the now free territory.

While the five clans were untouched, they recruited Hollows by giving them water or the promise of protection. But in fact, they were recruiting soldiers for this war. Once the Hollows attempted to revel, it only took a couple of massacres to make them work out in fear. The head of the Hesperiidae clan is in the Hollow Bastion just beyond this wall, recruiting more Hollows. The Ditrysia head is in the Adjucha Abatis, as well as the Rhopalocera head... My sources cannot determine the location of the Parnassius Head... Which can only mean he's dead, or hiding... I'll need more time before finding out his exact status.

On the fake Espada... They are tough to deal with. Even with the help of the Third Espada Fraccion and my sources, we cannot end their mayhem. Their attacks are random and follow no partner... the only thing we know, is they all wear a cloak and a mask. We cannot determine their skills nor their number. At first we thought there would be ten, but after killing that much, they just kept re-appearing... They have nothing in common one with the other, nor do they seem to be coordinated. Our best chance is to wait for a fake Espada attack, force it into fleeing, and finally tracing them to the source.

Ask me anything else, but for now, it'd be better if we head to the Hollow Bastion now.

[Final Boss]

Lala noticed the tension in Depeche's voice and grinned. She was feeling quite sinister today and would enjoy tormenting him for the duration they were here.

"Okay if names aren't important I'll just call you.... Bilbo."

Lulu frowned at Lala's behavior and tried her best to ease the frustration she was sure Depeche was feeling.

"Please ignore my sister, if heading to Hollow Bastion will best benefit our mission then by all means lead the way."

Lala jumped towards Lulu and put her in a headlock, "Don't tell anyone to ignore me!" She began to pull on Lulu's ear, despite her continuous protests and apologies Lala continued until she was satisfied.

"Well what are you waiting for? Lead the way Bilbo."

[Unicorn]

Nyarle listened carefully and ignored the noisy cubs.

"So La Fortaleza was killed by pride. Your information is good, ally."

"If the hunt begins from Hollow Bastion, then lead us here. If Kaariel approves." Nyarle flicked a glance at the white wolf.

"What of the rest of their pack once leaderless? Will they run or fight?"

[Kolbertt]

Leading the way, Depeche guided them all through the Arrancar slums. It was not a long way, and they'd be soon at the wall. All the time, the name "Bilbo" echoed in his head and he had to keep himself from turning around and cut off that little girls tongue.

"Once the Adjucha head of a clan has fallen, the remaining clan soon disbands. They are megalomaniacal paranoids, so much that they wouldn't allow no one to even near their power level. Their followers are not unlike slaves, and if the head falls, they'll probably praise us. That's the reason why the Parnassius Clan is such a mistery... Even if their head is missing, they remain coordinated and controled. Also, the other Clans haven't attempted a move on their territories yet... Of course, it could be out of sheer fear that the other Clans may attempt a move if they move their forces"

"In a more direct answer, if you kill the head, the whole Clan will be out of play"

The trip was uneventful. Like Depeche had said, the walls to the Hollow Bastion were unguarded and abandoned. They crossed without a single question from the many imperfect Arrancars that spyed on the mysterious strangers in a less than subtle way.

The change of scene at the Hollow Bastion was radical. While the Arrancar Slums had the image of complete destruction, the Hollow Bastion contrasted images of completelly untouched Stone Structures, not unlike houses, and places where the misery was even greater than that at the Arrancar Slums. "Possible hot spots for revolution" Depeche explained.

The population of Hollows was radical. They all lived in harmony and peace, except for when the leader Adjuchas requested their services. At the moment, the leader of the Hesperiidae clan, Malphas Hesperiidae had ordered an assembly to move his forces. Kaariel took advantage of this and mixed among the crowd, looking for possible allies. Depeche had lead them out of the main crowd. "Being an Arrancar is a disadvantage here. Few Arrancars have enough influence to be worthy of respect, the others are worth nothing"

In the distance, they saw Malphas, an Adjuchas with ebony black wings and a mask resembling a peak.

"There's Malphas, your actions are yours to take"

[Unicorn]

In the distance, they saw Malphas, an Adjuchas with ebony black wings and a mask resembling a peak.

"There's Malphas, your actions are yours to take"

Nyarle delicately sniffed the air, then turned to Depeche (Kaariel wasn't standing at the sidelines).

"Prey or ally?"

[Final Boss]

Just the mere sight of the winged Adjuchas caused Lala to rush straight towards it claymore prepared to strike. She charged openly making it difficult for anyone not to notice the child-like Espada and swung her massive sword aiming directly for the Hollow's right wing.

Lulu looked towards Nyarle and sighed, almost embarrassed by her sister's actions, and bowed in apology.

"I apologize on my sister's behalf, she can hardly help herself from fighting."

With that she formed her colossal shield and followed behind Lala prepared to provide assistance.

[Unicorn]

Nyarle watched first one cub, then the other cub, dash past her towards the new hollow with large black wings.

She blinked slowly at Depeche, not particularly wanting to steal another espada's target. "He's prey?"

[Kolbertt]

Depeche nodded. "Indeed, he is. Also, as much as I'd like that noisy brat to die, I don't think it's a good idea to leave those snipers around"

Depeche pointed to three different buildings. In them Hollows armed with simple silver bows were already pointing at Lulu and Lala... If Nyarle didn't react fast, Lala and Lulu would be totally impaled by a shower of arrows...

Meanwhile, the less than subtle approach that the twins had took, made their pressence rather... obvious.

Malphas grinned, and laughed with a voice strongly reminecent of a Crow's cry.

"Everyone, see! The futile attempts to go against our clan. To attack in open and announced meeting! They plan to show you all the weakness of their leader, but alas! It'll backfire. Since their death will only boast our moral!

Hesperiidae! Don't interfer! Let this fight be a reflection of our future victory!"

Malphas expanded his wings, and soared high into the sky. With his wings open, he revealed four arms, wielding a pair of silver bows on each... Upon tensing the string, a black arrow appeared on each of the bows, aiming straight to the twins.

A pair of black bullets homed in...

[Final Boss]

Lala saw the pair of black arrows coming and used her giant claymore as a shield, deflecting the arrows and allowing her to continue her charge. Lulu, who was not too far behind, took note of Malphas' weapon of choice. A bow is most effective at long range and normally didn't provide defense at close quarters, especially against a powerful weapon like Guerrero. She was curious to see how Malphas would counteract this attack.

Oblivious to the snipers posted on the rooftops Lala continued her charge assuming she was safe from any outside attacks. Once within swinging range of Malphas Lala quickly used sonido and reappeared at the Hollow's unguarded back swinging Guerrero with deadly force.

[Unicorn]

Nyarle sighed. She really didn't want to change just yet but the human form restricted her abilities. In one fluid motion, she drew both curved daggers and pressed both hilts together.

"Despierta, Sekhmet." She purred. There was a sudden wild howl as her form stretched and expanded whilst wind, sand and dust flew into the air.

Once her real senses returned to her, Nyarle didn't wait to fully finish changing forms to take action. She created four Shadow Clones and sent three of them speeding to each building. Herself and another clone (clone #4) sped towards where Lala and Lulu was.

Once the dust storm settled, the surrounding area was suddenly invaded by five massive armoured tigers leaping in different directions.

There was a moment of shock and surprise when everyone's attention was on her. Nyarle and (clone #4) opened their jaws and roared, with Nyarle casting Fear Paralysis.

The roar was pitched deep, and it echoed around the area for quite some time. One by one, the lesser hollows froze in pure terror as the roar took effect on them.

Nyarle and (clone #4) looked around, gathering information from her clones and her senses, and getting her bearings.

The archers in the buildings were hesitating. Good. Soon enough, her clones will tear their throats out.

Black arrows, what do they do?

[Kolbertt]

The snipers in the distance were all aiming their bows... All ready to shot... But Nyarle soon noticed something strange. They looked like a carbon copy of each other, and none of them had a pair of legs. They were like floating torsoes dressed in black. And when her clones tore them apart, they dissappeared into a flock of crowds...

Malphas smiled as Lala swang her sword. He clasped his fingers, and Lala shortly, but steadily started falling. None of the arrows had touched her, nor her sister, and she couldn't feel any damage in her body... so why?

"Do you think I'd be so stupid as to fight hand to hand with you? Noooo... Those arrows from before were not aimed at you. "Las Flechas Negras" don't damage you, but disrupt the reiatsu of the area, making it impossible to fly or use that annoying "Sonido" of yours near me!! Krahhhahaha!"

Malphas tensed his bows once more, this time, white arrows appeared... He started shooting them at fast intervals, leaving little time to react. To make matters worse, he did realize that Nyarle was already dealing with his "Defensores" A fraction of his powers he used to keep an area guarded...

"Hesperiidae! Watch!! Watch and rejoice! This is how we'll win!! With our supperiority, we'll simply watch in amusement how the pathetic ones attempt to reach us! We, of the Hesperiidae will rise as the crow left after the murder!"

Impossible to reach it by flying, impossible to shot a Cero fast enough for him not to dodge it, how will the Espada deal with such an opponent?

[Unicorn]

Nyarle had sensed the new attack. Acting purely on instinct, she and (clone #4) leapt towards the twins and each grabbed one girl by curling a tail around their waist and slamming them roughly against an armoured shoulder.

Both cats leapt sideways almost in time to avoid the rain of white arrows. Nyarle aimed for one of the nearby buildings, as did (clone #4). Four sets of powerful claws dug deeply onto the side of the building, then Nyarle launched herself upwards yet again. (clone #4) mimicked her movements.

“Attack him.” Nyarle snarled at her temporary passengers.

Golden slit eyes met the black beady ones of the flying hollow, who was watching her movements. A split-second later, Nyarle :

- implanted on the flying hollow an illusion recreating multiple images of her (Nyarle) attacking him.

- Leapt onto (clone #4), collected the other twin and used (clone #4) as a launching pad for her next leap upwards

- Formed another clone to shield herself from the continued rain of arrows.

[Final Boss]

Frustrated at seeing her attack end in failure, Lala cursed to herself. Lulu who maintained mental connection with Lala at all times heard this and sighed,

It is to be expected, he would not be foolish enough to leave himself so defenseless. Had you waited to analyze the situation we might not be in this mess.

Lulu saw the oncoming arrows and prepared to defend when suddenly she was snatched by a large tiger, Lala was annoyed at having her fight interrupted but the frustration melted away as she realized she was riding on a massive tiger.

"Yipee! Faster faster!"

As they approached Malphas one more time riding on large tigers Lulu planned out their offensive.

This time we will have a plan, at this height I should be able to launch you at Malphas at an incredible speed you know what to do when you get there.

Lala definitely did not want a repeat of what happened last time so she decided to go along with Lulu's plan, she gave a nod of approval as they leaped from Nyarle's back. Using Guarda to block any incoming arrows, Lulu grabbed Lala's hand turning a full 360 degrees for maximum momentum before throwing Lala towards Malphas. Due to Lulu's immense amount of strength Lala was launched at an extremely high velocity, as Lala flew towards the flying Hollow she began to spin becoming similar to a drill, this combined with her tough hierro made it possible to deflect any arrows and minimize any damage she would receive.

The distance between Malphas and Lala rapidly decreased as she approached his position, the illusions would surely provide an ample distraction and leave Malphas oblivious to the incoming drill of destruction that was Lala. Lala grinned as she propelled towards the giant bird-like Hollow.

[Kolbertt]

Malphas' attempts to stop the incoming attack only failed miserably. Despite the big advantage in height he had aquired, his opposing group had acted fast and accuratelly, reaching him before he could take any kind of action.

The drilling girl went through Malphas swiftly. The Adjuchas only had time to glare at the unnatural hole in his chest, before contorting and finally exploting in a million black feathers.

Once Malphas died, Lala, Lulu and Nyarle landed on the stage... One by one, the hollows in front of them started roaring in praise. Those with hands applauded. Those with tentacles snapped them in victory. Now that Malphas was dead, they were finally free.

Depeche appeared from behind, clapping as well.

"Congratulations on defeating Malphas, "The Black Sniper" on a single strike. The Espada have sent really useful allies after all"

Despite their previous actions, this envoys had done their job in a clean way... Depeche almost felt bad about sending the little girls without telling them about the snipers first... Almost.

"We've brought upon us the glory of freeing this Clan... That's both a good thing and a bad one... The remaining Adjuchas won't be so unprotected as this one, and our next target won't be so... Easy

Now, it won't help if I'm seen around you, so leave through those sewers over there. A group of allies will help you there. They now the road to the underground mazes like anyone else, and will get you to the edges of the Gillian Citadel... I'll arrive in a while, but there should be no problem there."

Having said this, Depeche dissappeared into the crowd.


Down the sewer entry he had pointed, a group of cockroach like hollows awaited peacefully. They had been told that allies would appear after a huge noise upstairs, and they needed to go to the deathstone wall that separated the Hollow Bastion and Gillian Citadel. All of them had the same basic power, a primitive Sonido that equaled that of a high level Arrancar, but consumed long quantities of energy. Not a problem, since all of them could feed on the underground sewer system to replenish their stamina.

Essentially, the cockroaches were an inteligent way of transport...

[Unicorn]

Nyarle was preparing to leap should the flying Hollow somehow avoid the wild cub. Instead the flying hollow disappeared in a cloud of black feathers, and the crowd below started cheering.

Nyarle twisted to land neatly on the ground on all four feet, changed back to her human form and stood up to face the cheering crowd. She stretched out her arms and savoured the worship until the blue-haired humanoid appeared and began speaking.

At the mention of sewers, Nyarle's lip lifted to bare her teeth in a distasteful snarl. "Must we hide in drains?" But she looked towards the entrance of the drains and saw the large insect-hollows.

With an unhappy growl, Nyarle moved towards the insect hollows and, as directed, sat on its back.

[Final Boss]

"Yuck! I don't ride bugs, I squash 'em!"

Lala showed obvious disgust at having to go down into the sewers, it only made it worse when she found out they were riding on huge cockroaches. Lulu sighed lightly to herself before trying to persuade Lala to deal with it.

"Would you rather walk the whole way? This is the only means of transportation we have."

Lala laughed at her sister mockingly, "We could always ride Nyarle the tiger!"

She spoke with a tone that sounded as if the solution was obvious, she looked towards Nyarle with the full intent of getting another ride. Without waiting for any confirmation Lala jumped on the same bug Nyarle was seated on.

"Come on! I wanna another ride!"

[Unicorn]

Nyarle eyed the wilder cub sleepily.

"Why should you again receive the honour of sitting on my shoulders, O noisy one, when you haven't yet repaid me for saving you from the arrows?"

She ran a gentle hand over the cockroach's back, then tossed another neutral glance at both twins. "How well do you handle our kind?"

Suddenly, Nyarle backflipped over Lala, landed lightly on the back of another cockroach hollow, and howled a challenge. The hollow skittered off at high speed.

[Final Boss]

Lala was slightly offended at Nyarle's refusal to give her another piggyback ride. She was about to go on about it was Nyarle's honor to have the privilege to let someone like her ride on top but before she could Nyarle leaped onto another cockroach and speed off down the sewers.

"You wanna race huh?! Get on Lulu!"

Lulu quickly jumped onto the same cockroach and the twins began pursuit after Nyarle.

[Kolbertt]

Now that everyone was in an individual bug, Sylvapen and it's friends launched at high speed through the sewers.

It's one thing when you run fast, but when you are riding something that goes fast... The experience can be quiet different. The fact that the roaches took sharp turns and sudden stops only made it more exciting.

After a rough ride, the roaches stopped in front of a ladder. In fact, they didn’t stop because of the ladder, but because a flamboyant woman, with large blond hair was sitting in it.

“Oh, I take it you are Depeche’s little friends! What a pleasure to met you” The roaches didn’t move, but Lala, Lulu and Nyarle got down.

“And I take it you Depeche’s big friends... The name is Narcissa De Sade, it’s my pleasure to met you. I’ll be playing your guide while Depeche isn’t around... I think he had some other business to attend to”

Slightly dissappointed by the fact that the party was totally comprised of women, Narcissa lead the way out.

“This, is the entrance to the Gillian Citadel, the last unguarded place before we reach the Adjuchas Abattis and your targets” The light, mirrored on the bright sands of Hueco Mundo, created in this underground colony, the effect of a bright day. An artificial light that greatly suited Narcissa’s natural beauty as she stretched out.

“I didn’t know how much time you’d take, so I’ve been in that nasty sewers for a rather long time” Her cerulean eyes shone brightly with innocence.

“So, let’s head over there...” She said as she pointed out to a destroyed gate. By the looks of it, a massive clawed creature had ripped them apart with sheer force alone, in a less than subtle work.

Once passing through it, they finally saw the Citadel. Much like the Hollow Bastion in it’s glorious days, the houses in this place were big enough to comfortably fit the Gillians in column shaped caves. At the top of this pilars, the mansions of important beings where made of the finest white, with artificial gardens and other kind of fancy furnitures.

“The Gillian Citadel is one of the places that has suffered the most with the recent war... They are far more dependant to the water than normal hollows, and their closeness to the Abbatis makes them easier to be manipulated by the Adjuchas... To make matters worse, the Espada have been taking picking up on this area a lot...”

A random explosion in the distance called everyone’s attention. It came from this side of the wall.

“Talking of Rome...”

“Going down this road, you’ll eventually met the gates to the Abbatis. But the Espada need to be punished... It’s your decission really”

A smirk formed in her face, as her eyes temporally shone red.

“What will you do?”

[Unicorn]

Whilst the hollow skittered crazily down black corridors, Nyarle hung on and sensed her surroundings.

They stopped before a blonde female hollow. Nyarle was pretty sure that she reached the hollow first, so she hopped off and offered the noisy cub an insolent yawn. After that the hollow, Narcissa, began to speak.

They followed Narcissa out of the sewers, and Nyarle welcomed the clean air and sunshine. She glanced anaytically around her surroundings. Something had clawed down a wall. Nyarle found herself comparing claw sizes when Narcissa offered them a choice.

Golden slit-pupilled eyes met strangely red ones, as she mulled over her answer.

"I will destroy the Adjucha pack before moving to kill the other pack." Nyarle responded.

[Final Boss]

A female had appeared before them in the sewers calling herself Narcissa, she presented them with a choice to either eliminate the Adjuchas or the fake Espada. Nyarle had decided to deal with the Adjuchas first and to be honest Lala could care less.

"Who cares which ones we kill first? Adjuchas or wannabe Espadas it makes no difference."

For the sake of avoiding an argument between Lala and Nyarle Lulu swiftly intervened.

"If you do not mind, then we will strike down the Adjuchas first."

[Kolbertt]

Narcissa was slightly surprised about their decision... Of course, her knowledge of Depeche's plans were limited, but she had thought the elimination of the Espada were his top priority, followed only by the elimination of the rival Adjuchas.

"Very well. As you chose"

The explosions and sounds of havoc slowly deafened as they left the Scene. The Gillian Citadel was comparably smaller than the Hollow Bastion, so there was no need to ride any kind of transport before reaching the Gillian's wall.

Unlike the entrance of the Gillian citadel, the Adjuchas door was of a brilliant gold and crimson, well kept and guarded by three Gillians. The three of them glared at the party with distrustful eyes, but Narcissa merelly revealed a gold plate with silver trimming, vaguely resembling a butterfly

"Move"

The guards nodded in a mixture of fear and agreement, and opened up the door.

The Adjuchas Abbatis was, quiet literally, a paradise. Water poured freely from Quartz and crystal fountains. The art was simply of the best quality, and almost looked like petrified Hollows adorning a garden.

The houses here were a more elegant version of the Hollow Bastion ones, except without any kind of damage or signs of overpopulation. The Adjuchas were of a smaller size, so the houses were not as big of the ones in the Gillian Citadel, and everyone showed small signs of personality.

"As you can probably guess, that big house in the distance is the Rhopalocera clan head. I'm pretty sure Belial will receive you with open arms..."

The party approached the mansion... And as they prepared to break through, the gates opened up on themselves. An enormous Adjuchas, towering even the highest of the group appeared behind them. A pair of enormous tusks and a trunk made him look like a bipedal elephant.

"Narcissa... The rumors of your betrayal are true I suppose"

"Don't get me wrong Beli, I always played for a different team. My dear extermination squad, this is Belial Rhopalocera. Your target"

"You'll pay with blood Narcissa"

"Shut up Beli. You'll become my next set of ivory jewels"

Having said this, Narcissa took out a whip out of nowhere... but merelly used it to get into high ground.

"Hey gals! Kill him quickly please!"

"I'll take your friends first... And will use their bones to maul you to death!"

Belial rushed in. His movements were not unlike those of a rolling boulder, clumsy, but potentially lethal.

0====0

Somewhere else, Auguste was concentrated on his read, when a hooded figure approached him. With a quick glance, he smiled and said

"Ah... Thou hast arrived"

[Mad_Scientist]

The hooded figure that stood before Auguste was wearing plain grey robes. Somewhat shabby, they looked like the type of clothes an arrancar living in La Fortaleza might wear. Beneath the robes one could just make out a sword, though a curious fold of the robes mostly hid it from view and made it difficult to see clearly. A small bulge on the figure's right side indicated he was carrying something in the pocket there, though it could have been anything. The man's Reiatsu was either weak, or else it was being hidden.

In fact, figure's Reiatsu was being hidden. The bulge at his side was a small shock-resistant carrying case holding a couple of empty vials, though most people would not understand the significance of that. The man's mostly hidden sword had a surprisingly elegant hilt, with a carving of a lovely woman on it. And on both sides of the man's face were letter-like mask fragments. It was the face of Alan Matiaha, the 9th Espada.

"Hello, Auguste-sama." Glancing at the hole in the ground, Alan continued. "I assume the others have already gone in? I figured that would be the case, considering my late arrival."

[Final Boss]

Both twins evaded the oncoming giant rather easily, his movements were sluggish making it a walk in the park to dodge his charges. Experimentally Lala swung down Guerrero in a swift counter attack targeting Belial's neck.

Lulu expected his Hierro to be extremely tough and wanted to test it's limits. She watched carefully to see the result of Lala's quick attack while being completely prepared to defend.

[Unicorn]

Nyarle listened carefully to the spoken exchange between Narcissa and the elephant-man. So Narcissa was a betrayer of Belial? Golden eyes flicked towards the other hollow briefly.

She then turned her attention back to Belial as he moved to attack. Truly an impressive pair of tusks and a valuable trophy. She will also have to be careful about the elephant trunk he sported.

The twins enthusiastically rushed in to attack. This was to her benefit, Nyarle mused as she sprang upwards into a tree.

After selecting a sturdy branch, she settled herself carefully; legs curled under her and hands lightly touching the branch. In this position, she could observe everything that happened, and also be ready to react should Belial turn his attention on her.

[Kolbertt]

Beilal continued his run... Surprisingly enough, his attack didn't seem to be directed at neither Nyarle, Lulu or Lala - It was more like he was running for the sake of it... In fact, instead of countering Lala's attack, he simply bounced it off.

Once he had gained a considerable distance, Belial turned on his back, and faced his enemies.

"Now you'll die"

The earth trembled. And only seconds later, a ray of light pierced the sky in the spot Belial had stepped on. A second one followed it, and soon, countless pilars of light were falling.

To make matters worse, a second row of pilars of light followed Belial's hands movements and moved horizontally... To reach him, the Espada must pass through this barrage of light...

"Ohh, so you are using Musth (http://www.kongregate.com/games/jmtb02/elephant-rave)already Beli? It looks like you wanna end this early"

At this provocation, the lights felt even faster than before...

[And to pass this test, You have to fill in the blanks -

Remember: _ _ _ _ _ ]

0=====0

Alan went through the hole Auguste was guarding and entered La Fortaleza, at the same time Depeche approached him.

"Welcome to La Fortaleza Espada"

The ones who had organized everything had informed Depeche the Espada envoys would arrive, and soon afterwards, a real Espada would arrive. So far, everything had gone as planned, and that made him happy.

"Feel free to call me as you wish. My job is to play guide in this complex place. After retrieving your Hollow Companion in a cheerful mob, we'll go with your envoys and finish this war along with this mission"

The two of them went away, while Depeche forwarded the details to Alan concerning the death of Malphas and the general situation. After retrieving Kaariel, they rided a dragonfly Hollow courtesy of Depeche's contacts...

However, upon reaching the entrance to the Gillian Citadel, where Narcissa met Lala, Lulu and Nyarle, Depeche sighed...

"I told the Third Fraccion to wait here for my arrival and not move... I hope something has happened to excuse her lack of proffessionality. Let us go"

The explosions in the distance had calmed down and there was no sign of the fake Espadas. Depeche and Alan continued their journey to the Adjuchas Abbatis.

(Mad - Post with comments on the situation, thougths, etc. And feel free to reach the gates of the Abbatis, where Depeche will open them by showing a golden plate to the guards. But do not join the Belial fight yet :uhuh)

[Unicorn]

Nyarle was puzzled at what the lights could do. She broke off a branch and threw it into a pillar of light.

[Mad_Scientist]

"Thank you for your welcome, though unfortunately it seems there is not much left to welcome me to." Alan glanced around at the destruction that had hit the Arrancar Slums. "I am Alan Matiaha, currently the 9th Espada. Though in this place, I would rather not let that fact be known until it is necessary. You may call me Hector in the meantime. And if there is something I am unaware of that I need to know in order to appear to be no more than a citizen of this place, I would appreciate being told it now, of course."

Alan was surprised when Depeche told him he may call him as he wished. "So is there no longer a need for you to have any cover identity? I was not aware that the situation here was that bad." Alan looked at Depeche with curiosity. The 6th Espada, Ja'eq, had reported that he found Depeche annoying at first, but later found him valuable. Ja'eq did not seem like the type of person who would give praise where it was undeserved, so Alan assumed that Depeche must have been a very competent agent. Yet now, he had a tired and resigned air to him. It wasn't good to see, but Alan didn't exactly know the best way to encourage him.

As Depeche explained the situation, Alan was pleased to hear that one of the five Adjuchas was already dead, but he wasn't happy that the arrival of the Espada had been announced so loudly. He supposed there was no way to not put the other Adjuchas on guard after killing the first, but now the fake Espada would also be on guard. As he rode a dragonly Hollow towards the Gillian Citadel, Alan asked about the fake Espada.

"These fake Espada... do you know if they are at all connected to the 'Narcissa de Sade' who killed Vladmir? I find it hard to believe that they are not, as it would be a strange coincidence for two different groups of fake Espada to be involved here in such short succession, but it sounds like you have not seen any sign of her since she fled after the death of Vladmir."

The absence of the 3rd's fraccion was not an encouraging sign. Here, Alan disagreed with Depeche. Better that nothing had happened other than the fraccion getting distracted by something trivial. Far better that than some of the alternatives.

After a mostly uneventful journey, Alan, Depeche, and Kaariel reached the gates of the Adjuchas Abbatis, where they made it through without event thanks to Depeche flashing a golden card of some sort. Stepping into the abbatis, Alan couldn't help but be surprised. This place was better looking than most of Las Noches!

Gesturing towards one of the many fountains, Alan asked Depeche, "Is that the same water as from the lake? And if so, how pure is it?"

[Final Boss]

Lala was angered as she saw her attack merely bounce off of Belial's tough hide, she never enjoyed having her attacks so easily blocked. Lulu continued to observe as pillars of light fell from the sky, she was extremely curious about what these pillars could do and watching intently as Nyarle threw a branch at one of the many pillars blocking their way.

[Kolbertt]

"Ah... Madamme De Sade. Unfortunatelly , I saw her quiet a few times after Vladimir's murder. Not that it brings any kind of light on her goals or true identity... She abused her position as Vladimir's right hand to get the quick favor of the Adjuchas, and protected herself under the wing of the Rhopalocera family, and a rather public life.

At the moment, we couldn't really expose her without bringing further chaos into the situation, but it's true we've seen her numerous times where the Fake Espada appeared. Of course, at a prudential distance...

Narcissa is an odd piece in this puzzle... It's not unheard that strong Arrancar gain high possitions in this hierarchy, like I've unwillingly done..."

Depeche had a fast flashback, in which the Hollows saw him wounded, tracked back the mysterious guest to Laurence, his previous higher up. His public execution, and his unwanted promotion. It's really hard to keep a low profile as an Arrancar Ambassador from the Ditrysia Clan...

"But while many search the position for safety, Narcissa seems to enjoy it herself. Her level of skill, as well as her powers... Are a mistery"

But what bothered Depeche the most, was that Narcissa moved on mere instinct. Not one of her movements made sense... They were, almost perfectly random.

"She is, without doubt, annoying"

0===0

Narcissa sneezed. "Damn, is it that cold here?"

The branch Nyarle threw was quickly stomped down by a ray of light. Once it dissappeared, the previously irregular quartz branch was now perfect dust in the stomped earth.

"It looks like everything you throw will be grilled down..." Narcissa said as she threw a Bala, which pretty much just was stopped cleanly.

"There's no choice but to cross that madness. So come on, do it"

The random beams of light kept on coming, they neared more and more the position of the Espada.

[In case you are wondering, you have no choice but to cross the Elephant Rave (http://www.kongregate.com/games/jmtb02/elephant-rave) (<--- Link) and complete the sentence - "Remember:_ _ _ _ _" with what you ask? Complete the rave:fu]

0===0

Once Depeche opened the doors with his Ditrysia Shield of Arms, they entered the Adjuchas Abbatis.

"Don't be so astonished by this place... It was built on slavery, unlike Las Noches" Depeche said as he saw Alan's face.

"The water from this fountains is almost pure... It's been manipulated by much less Hollows than that back from before, but I'm afraid the only pure source of water is the lake behind the Clan Halls..."

As he pointed, Depeche noticed beams of colored light in the distance...

"Espada... I fear we have arrived just in time"

[Final Boss]

[OOC: Remember:18293]

Lala and Lulu swiftly dodged the raining pillars of light and approached Belial. Eager for a second attempt to kill the large, elephant Hollow Lala charged in, appearing just above Belial's head. She brought her giant claymore down in a powerful slash targeting it's neck, unlike before the attack didn't merely bounce off, this time it barely cut through the first layer of the Adjuchas' thick hierro stopping before it could completely cleave off Belial's head.

Lulu, ready to assist her sister, instantly appeared holding her large shield in both hands. She brought down Guarda like a hammer straight onto Guerrero giving it a tremendous boost of force. With the addition of Lulu's strength Guerrero was able to slice through the Hollow's head in one clean cut.

The head dropped like a rock and rolled before Lala. Her weapon disintegrated as she picked up the head by a tusk and began to toss it up and down like a ball.

"Freakin' annoying Hollow, this is what happens when you mess with me!"

As the head came down Lala delivered a single kick that sent the head flying into the sky.

"I never wanna see an elephant again!"

[Mad_Scientist]

"Ah, should have guessed the water wouldn't be pure enough. Things can't be that easy, can they? I understand the Hollows go crazy if an arrancar trys to go near the lake, but what"- Alan was cut off by the appearance of strange pillers of light in the distance, as well as the presence of a fairly strong Reiatsu. "Never mind for now. It seems another of the Adjuchas is being fought, or perhaps the fake Espada? Do you recognize those lights, Depeche?"

Alan quickly headed in the lights' direction. He doubted his fellow Espada would really need his help if it was only one of the Adjuchas they were fighting, but there was always that rare chance that they might. And who knows what the fake Espada might be capable of. In addition, Alan's comrades had no idea he was even at Las Fortaleza, and therefore it would probably be a good idea for Alan to meet up with them and coordinate future movements.

Not too long after Alan started moving, the lights suddenly vanished.

[Unicorn]

*Remember:18293*

....

Nyarle frowned as she watched the beams of light dance around madly and the tree branch get crushed into powder.

She readied herself for sonido, watching the patterns and trying to find a pattern. When the pair of cubs rushed in wildly. By sheer stroke of luck, they dodged every single light beam and killed Belial in two powerful strokes.

Nyarle threw her head back and sounded a victory howl.

[Kolbertt]

"I've never seen them before, but they fit perfectly the description of Musth - Belial's strongest attack... Everything those light of beams touch will be pummeled to dust under it's own weight"

Even if the lights were slowly dissapearing, Depeche didn't slow down - Chairman was totally ignorant on the location of everything in this Abbatis, and right now, the lights were coming straight from the Rhopalocera clan Hall... The previous conversation regarding Narcissa made him suspect even more...

But as luck would have it, when Depeche, Kaariel and Alan reached the scene, Narcissa had left the scene.

"Where is Chairman? How did you reach this place? Did you interact with someone named Narcissa De Sade? State your Mission at once in detail"

"Hey, hey... There's no need for that questionare. I can tell by scent, they are on our side" - Kaariel interrupted him

"There's a way to tell. We've selectivelly spread information in the underground regarding this mission. If they tell even one more detail out, I'll personally behead them"

"Follow your orders and shut up. These people here are our allies"

Having been ordered to guide the group of envoys around, making sure to aid them when possible, even at the cost of his own life. Depeche couldn't help but revealing an unpleasent eye-twitch.

The wolf was definitelly part of the envoy group, so his orders were clear in that he had to obey and not pose any kind of difficulty... There was no loop hole he could exploit this time, and that made the work obsessed Depeche... unhappy.Instinct... What a prehistoric... solution to uncertainess.

"The Ditrysia clan hall is relativelly close. I have the greatest advantages there, so lay low while I open the doors"

Depeche pointed at a building, that was much luxurious and shocking than the Rhopalocera clan they had barelly witnessed. If sights were something to judge, it looked like the Ditrysia clan was much stronger than the Rhopalocera.

It was only logical that the Ditrysia clan head, the last head Adjucha in the list, was the strongest of them all. The one who had survived everything, and the only Adjucha who was actually awaiting the Espada.

[Unicorn]

Nyarle observed the conversation and the people around her. Emotions were running high, and so were the emotional scent trails

She could smell that Depeche was upset, and there was a new addition to the group. Nyarle eyed the man for a while, before recognising him.

"Welcome, Novena." She greeted the Ninth Espada, dipping into a slight bow. "I hope to do honour to the title of Decima."

"Would you know anything about Narcissa? She seems to have caused some worry."

[Mad_Scientist]

Alan couldn't help but feel a slight bit of morbid amusement at Depeche's suspicion of Lala, Lulu, and the new 10th. "Perhaps your paranoia is catching," Ninian thought, in a dry tone of voice... make that tone of thought, since she wasn't actually speaking.

But Alan frowned worridly when he noticed Depeche's eye twitch. They were relying on this man to be their guide: if he lost his ability to function properly, it would make the mission far more difficult. Alan had to wonder what exactly had happened when Depeche first met the other Espada. It seemed clear they had not gotten off on the best of terms, though.

Alan looked over the new 10th Espada with interest. After his promotion, Alan assumed the spot of #10 would be reclaimed by Sir Curtis, the one who held it before him. Instead, it was taken by this woman now standing before him, who he had never even heard of. Even now, all he knew was her name. Nyarle. What was she like?

Hoping to prevent any future issues between his companions, Alan quickly answered her question so that Depeche would not have to deal with it. And maybe that would forestall any future questions by Lala or Lulu. Alan was still dreading to see what they were going to say in response to Depeche's threat.

"Narcissa de Sade is an Arrancar female who has interfered with our plans here before. In a previous incident, the 6th Espada, Ja'eq, was sent to deal with a Hollow named Vladmir. Vladmir had been inciting the denizens here against the Espada. Ja'eq intended to handle the situation in a subtle manner that would be impossible to trace back to the Espada, but before he could, Narcissa killed Vladmir in a manner that was anything but subtle. Of course, the Espada got blamed.

Since then, she has been sighted several times here, but Depeche has been unable to learn her goals or aims. It's not clear what connection she might have with the fake Espada now making attacks. Her powers are also unknown, though in the previous incident with Ja'eq, she showed signs of having some sort of telepathic ability, including perhaps the ability to read thoughts to an extent.

If you have encountered her already, I certainly hope you were careful about what thoughts you had during the time you were with her."

It seemed clear that niether Nyarle or Lala/Lulu knew about Narcissa going into this mission. It was frustrating, but not entirely surprising: Lala and Lulu didn't seem like the types to study mission reports, and Nyarle was such a new addition that she might not have had access to the info long enough even if she was the type herself. Perhaps Depeche should have warned them, but maybe the apparant unpleasantness of their meeting drove the thought out of his mind, or perhaps he assumed they already knew.

[Final Boss]

"Hey look Lulu, it's Bilbo!"

It was definitely good fun messing around with Depeche and from the looks of it he looked to be somewhat disturbed as he questioned them so suddenly. Lala almost decided not to answer his questions at all. He was accompanied by the newly appointed 9th Espada, Alan, and he took this opportunity to give a brief explanation of Narcissa.

"Hmm wasn't that stupid lady that led us here named Narcissa?"

Lulu reluctantly stepped forward to answer her sister's question.

"Yes Lala, her name was Narcissa." she looked embarrassingly at Alan, "I assume you got all that information from the 6th's report, unfortunately I was preoccupied..."

Lala gave her sister a quick whack to the head silencing her, she looked up at Alan with a curious look.

"So she can read our thoughts? Who cares? I wasn't thinking of anything other than how lame she was or how killing these weak Adjuchas would be no fun at all. I say we move on, she's gone now and there's nothing we can do but go on."

Though Lala was right Lulu couldn't help but worry about her carefree attitude especially after a potential enemy had been right besides them. Lulu agreed with her sister, they had to go on with the mission. Not willing to speak out, Lulu waited for Lala to take charge yet again.

"So are ya gonna lead the way Bilbo, some people want to finish this mission."

[Kolbertt]

No one is more eager than me... That's for sure

Depeche knew this mission was far from smooth. Far from efficient, far from anything he'd call "satisfactory" really, but he couldn't allow this emotions to interfer with his task. The fact that the man behind this noisy group, Ja'eq, was an Espada, made him happy on the inside. Someone as efficient and serious as him... It was not really surprising, and Depeche was honestly dissapointed with himself for not noticing it earlier. Had he known Ja'eq was an Espada... How could have things changed?

Bringing up his best mask, Depeche shifted into a serious mode.

"I'll let you know why I chose the Ditrysia clan as my face in this place...

Back when La Fortaleza was still in the surface, it was nothing like you see it now. It was a place filled with death and desperation, much like you the rest of Hueco Mundo except for Las Noches. However, the story tells that a group of five Hollows who were fighting against each other, when they all saw a butterfly of light land in the distance, and from the place it had landed, this misterious water started pouring.

At once, their hunger dissappeared, and found out they could talk, and as a way of memoring the butterfly that united them all, each one renamed itself after a Butterfly family. As you must have guessed, those five Hollows eventually evolved into the Clan heads you have been eliminating so far.

Malphas, the trickster. He'd always find a way around everything.
Belial, the strongest. He'd simply crush anything in his path.
Alal, the fastest. Always attempting to think ahead of his opponents... Ironically enough, he was the first one to be killed.
Naamah, the silent. Her words were never wasted. The few times she spoke, she did it with great wisdom... But her own reclution signified her doom, as the other clans quickly took advantage of her inactivity.

And finally... Mara Ditrysia, the only one without a title.

He lacked the strenght of Belial, the inteligence of Naamah, the initiative and speed of Alal, and the skills of Malphas... Yet, he became the greatest of them all. Through hard work? Mere luck? Skill? I doubt it.

Mara has a gift not many share. The gift of patience. He observes everything before moving, and keeps his head quiet at all times."

By the time, they were already in front of the Ditrysia quarters.

"Rumors say, it was Mara the one who realised the importance of this new water, and the fact that it made them stronger... Through sheer manipulation, he rivalred the others, while he himself remained fairly clean. Though Naamah was the one who started recruiting other Hollows, it was Mara the one who took the most advantage out of it..."

"Mara... The Manipulator"

Surprisingly enough, the halls of the Ditrysia clan were empty. Not even a soul interrupted the party as Depeche opened up the doors.

"Behind this door, is Mara's chamber. I cannot say the lack of security is a good sign... but our objective is behind this door"

With strength, he opened up two massive doors... Revealling the most grotesque sight so far.

Mara was an obesse gigantic blob - It's legs couldn't be seen, and it's arms looked freakingly small from the amount of meat that covered them - All along his body, syringes and tubes inserted in it's flesh...

Right above him, a giant stain-glassed window despicting a butterfly filtered the light, the red, green and blue lights colored the dust, and made the atmosphere dense... But just through them, the crystal clear lake could be seen.

"Mara?!" Depeche asked in surprise "What have you done to yourself?"

"Oh... Depeche... I was expecting you... and your Espada..."

His voice was slow... like it tired him to even breath.

"I'm sorry... but you will all die... here..."

Mara didn't move at all, and only closed his eyes.

[Unicorn]

Ja'eq intended to handle the situation in a subtle manner that would be impossible to trace back to the Espada, but before he could, Narcissa killed Vladmir in a manner that was anything but subtle. Of course, the Espada got blamed.

"I remember Belial accusing her of betraying the Adjuchas. So she also despoiled the Espada name? She must be punished."

If you have encountered her already, I certainly hope you were careful about what thoughts you had during the time you were with her."

Nyarle stood, thinking back to their encounter. "Another mind-controller? I didn't reveal too much in my thinking, as she only asked a simple question. To choose to fight the Espada, or fight the Adjucha." She shrugged. "I simply chose to finish hunting one pack before starting on another."

Time passed as Depeche led them towards the large Clan Hall whilst explaining the various powers of the Adjuchas, and the history of their conflicts.

The doors were thrown open, only to reveal a large shapeless thing. Nyarle wrinkled her nose in disgust at the diseased scent that emanated from the hall.

[Final Boss]

Lala was completely disgusted at the mere sight of the creature that stood before them, even Lulu couldn't help but put on a sickened face.

"Ewww!! You're gross, how do you even move ya fat slug?"

Instead of taunting him, Lulu was much more aware and prepared herself for whatever he might throw at them. Obviously Lala didn't bother herself with listening to Depeche's explanation on the Clan leaders, if he was one who always stayed calm and manipulated the other leaders then he would surely have some sort of trick up his sleeve.

[Mad_Scientist]

As Alan listened to Depeche's explanation of the history of La Fortaleza, he found himself growing both intrigued and slightly disturbed. He knew that the unpure water retrieved in the earlier mission had turned into a butterfly, but he hadn't known just how closely linked the mysterious water was to butterflies.

He couldn't help but think of "Hell Butterflies", those odd things the Shinigami apparantly used. Alan knew practically nothing of them other than their name, which was an oddity in itself. Shinigami, guardians of Soul Society, a "heaven", used Hell Butterflies? Was their some connection between the Shinigami and Hell? Alan didn't know. Now, he wondered if their was some connection between the Hell Butterflies and this lake water.

When the massive doors opened, quite a few thoughts went through Alan's head in a matter of seconds. This Hollow knew they were coming, knew they were Espada. It was facing a force consisting of three Espada, a powerful Wolf Hollow, and an another Arrancar of unknown strength, a force that should make almost any being tremble. And yet Mara said, quite simply, that they were all going to die.

How? This guy was called the Manipulator. Perhaps he had a way to use their own powers against them? Unlikely, maybe, but possible. But whatever he had planned, he had chosen this location, this battlefield. It was surely designed to give him an edge, and work to his advantage.

"So perhaps before we even attempt to try and destroy him, we first desrupt his environment. Don't let him set the rules or choose how the battle goes. Make him fight in a battlefield of our design" Ninian spoke with experience. Fighting in another's chosen battlefield, in the manner they desired, had caused issues in a past mission, against the Shinigami who had set themselves up in a cave in Las Noches.

And so, the very first thing Alan did was fire a spray of Bala towards the ceiling and the stained glass windows. Before even waiting for them to hit, he then used Sonido to head... away from the room, away from Mara, out back into the hallway. Glancing to the sides, he looked for a good spot to send a cero, a spot that would blast a hole in the walls of the chamber he had just left.

ADDON:

"Hey, Alan, want to share what you're doing with our allies?" Ninian's thought in Alan's head had something of a wry tone to it. "Err... yes, of course," Alan thought back.

Shouting to his companions, Alan said, "Keep your guard up, just because he looks like he's doing nothing doesn't mean anything! He might try and somehow use our power against us. Watch out for traps as well! He chose to fight at this place, so let's disrupt his environment."

With the 3 of them working together, dealing with this blob shouldn't be too tough, regardless of what he had in store. But it couldn't hurt to be careful. Alan sent the cero he had been planning: would it blow a hole clean through the chamber walls and make a new entrance? Would it uncover anything hidden in the walls, perhaps? Time would tell.

[Kolbertt]

The glass shattered, some debris felt, but there was no sign of movement from Mara.

"I'm sorry... Espada... But I'm afraid... I cannot move..."

The abnormal amount of dust that covered not only the room, but Mara himself, only confirmed this. The Cero Alan had thrown was swallowed by Mara's stomach --- Shaking the loose flesh and spreading dust everywhere.

Depeche, who was amazed by Mara's new form... Couldn't help but speaking his thoughts.

"Ditrysia... This new form... Is it related to the dissappearance of the Parnassius Clan head dissappearance?"

"Sharp as ever... Depeche"

The many tubes in the room became clear as the dust lowered down... Many entered Mara's body, and a cristal clear liquid flowed in and out of Mara's body freely.

"That sharpness... is what gave you away... someone of your inteligence... is naturally ambitious... you always settled for little... while knowing that doors where opened...*cough*cough*

I excuse myself... but in my current health... I cannot attend you... properly... please wait quietly... for your deaths"

"Like hell I'll leave that happen" Kaariel had heard enough. He runned forward, jumped into the air... And before anyone noticed, he was opened in half and spraying blood everywhere.

His dead body felt in the dusty floor.

[Kolbertt]

It was strange, but out of the darkest corners of the room, a quartet of monsters, semi-transparent, but wielding clearly long claws were now standing between Mara and the Espadas.

Nyarle couldn't see them... but in a way, she could feel their movements. Her animal instincts gave her an unpredicted edge in this fight.

There was no way to tell how sharp this claws where, but she'd soon find out if they were able to cut through an Espada, cause this squad had now jumped in Lala and Lulu's direction.

[Unicorn]

Nyarle's skin prickled, there were more things in the room than just the worm and the espada. She couldn't see them, but she knew they were around. Like wisps of smell.

One wisp headed towards Kaarial as he leapt, and Kaarial hit the floor in two pieces and a spray of blood.

More wisps headed towards the next nearest targets... 5th Espada, who were simply standing around as if they didn't see anything.

Nyarle didn't waste any more time. She went Resurreccion, turned into a giant tiger and made several clones. One clone, she sent to retrieve the twin girls by curling tails around their waists and dragging them away.

The other three clones, she sent to attack the wisps.

"There are unseen things here, four of them. They kill with long claws, and they're heading towards us." She snarled at her fellow Espada, before sending a Cero towards one of the wisps.

[Mad_Scientist]

"What the-?!" Alan burst out as his wolf ally was cut in half. For all that Hollow's good senses for detecting things like trustworthyness and deception, it apparantly didn't have senses that could detect danger. Surely it should have guessed there was something going on, even Lala and Lulu did not just charge straight in. Unfortunately, even after seeing what happened, Alan didn't know how it had happened, and thus he still didn't have a clue exactly what the danger was.

But he didn't waste time. He immediately drew his sword and spoke the words, "Manifest, Ninian." Whatever he was facing, he would likely need his full power. After a moment in which Reiatsu surged and flared, one could see that Alan's figure had changed a bit, taking on a somewhat beastlike quality, and a shining sword blade hovered near his right hand, attached to it by a faintly glowing strand of light. More importantly, Ninian had appeared in front of him: the fragment of the soul of his wife taking a beautiful form, the core of his strength and powers manifest in a striking figure.

Nyarle obviously felt the same way Alan did about the current situation, for she released at the same time as him, taking on a feline appearance in her Resurreccion form. She then created four clones of some sort, three of which she sent to attack... nothing, the last of which she sent to grab Lala and Lulu, as if to drag them out of the path of... nothing. Either Nyarle had just gone nuts, or she somehow perceived more about the current threat than Alan. Alan suspected the latter, and that was confirmed a second later.

There are unseen things here, four of them. They kill with long claws, and they're heading towards us.

Shortly after speaking these words, Nyarle sent a a Cero into what looked like empty space, presumably trying to hurt one of the unseen foes.

"Great, just great," Alan thought. An enemy he couldn't see would not be easy to fight. With his Heirro and high Reiatsu, they would probably have a harder time cutting him in half than they did Kaariel, but he hoped to not find out just how much harder it would be.

"Nyarle! Keep your clones as close to each enemy as possible, so we know their general locations. Use a clone for each of them!" As Alan said this, Ninian sonidoed into the room at Mara, opening a large shield style Portal in front of her, using the location of the clones and the Cero blast to guage where the unseen claws were and try to avoid them. To protect her sides and back, Alan began firing Bala above her, to each side of her, and at her. Fortunately, Ninian could not be hurt by Alan's Bala, so the fact that she was being hit some by the storm of blasts was not an issue.

"Lala, Lulu! Come to me! When Ninian reaches the blob, she'll open a Portal that will let you teleport right next to Mara. Then the three of you cut him up, and make sure you destroy those tubes!" Alan was keeping a close eye on the clones himself: if one of them looked like it was charging at an enemy in his general location, he'd move quickly towards somewhere else.

___

Ninian was able to avoid the unseen foes, thanks to Nyarle's clones, the shield guarding her front, and the Bala blasts protecting her sides and back. As she reached Mara, she let her Shield Portal disappear and opened a regular Portal at her side, connecting her and Alan. With a clear path for Lala and Lulu to appear, Ninian prepared her Matter Breakdown sword, and brought it down in a coordinated attack against Mara, making sure she cut through both flesh and some of those suspicious tubes. Surely Mara would be hurt by this.

At least, that's what Alan and Ninian were hoping would happen.

[Final Boss]

Lala was hesitant to move towards Mara after what happened to Kaariel, she certainly wasn't in the mood to get cut up by an invisible force. Whatever was attacking them the twins knew that they couldn't see it. Their suspicions were correct when Nyarle released and notified them that there was four ghosts that attacked with razor sharp claws.

Alan had also decided to release, manifesting a woman he called Ninian. She rushed in to attack Mara while Alan provided cover fire. Surprisingly Lala did as she was told and moved near Alan. The twins reached him in time and rushed straight into the portal appearing within attacking range of Mara. They swung their weapons fast targeting the Hollow's disgusting flesh and the the tubes that were inserted into him.

[Kolbertt]

The perfectly coordinated attack would have meant Mara's doom... but there was something odd in the situation.

The three weapons would have destroyed Mara's gelatinous flesh, had they reached it.

Ninian, Lala and Lulu were pushed back by some invisible force, at the same time, two of Nyarle's clones had been destroyed, and the last of them seemed to have been heavily injured.

However, something strange happened, in all this mayhem, even if for a second, everyone was able to see the clawed monsters - Legless, with thin arms and claws as long as their bodies... During this time, a bizarre net of sorts was created between Mara and the Espadas, but pretty much like the entities they were facing, it soon dissappeared once the dust settled down.

"What a surprise... You can see... my shadow... Too bad... your eyes... don't match... your strength"

There was something extremelly wrong with Mara. His strength was on par with the Espada, despite being a mere Adjucha...

Meanwhile, Depeche eyed the Katar in his hip... and sighed. Not yet he thought. If his deductions were correct, there WAS a way to overcome this invisible ghosts...

[Kolbertt]

Nyarle had seen how, from the ground under Mara, three more shadows had appeared, blocking their opponents weapons by forming a net between the three of them. The three shadows pushed their opponents back, and jumped to different corners. Their expanded claws now formed a massive net that had proven to be an effective shield.

To make matters worse, the only one who could see the clones, was also the weakest of the Espada, and apparently, a hard match against them.

But, judging from surprised faces, it looked like everyone had been able to see the ghosts, even if for a second, Nyarle couldn't defeat them... but if she were not alone against them...

Call it luck or plotkai, Nyarle had only managed to get superficial wounds that didn't even hinder her movement, but her clones felt like flies... The shadows, on the other hand, were swift dodgers, adding that to their barelly visible bodies, made it a hard game to take them on.

She'd need to do something, fast.

[Unicorn]

“Three more unseen things! Total seven!” Nyarle snarled, dodging yet again and forming yet more clones to target the wisps. “They protect the worm with their claws”

Nyarle dodged again, this time with a thin trail of blood. Nothing serious, but it made her more annoyed.

“Help me.” Nyarle snarled. “They move too fast, I cannot get a hit. I once saw them in the dust.”

Drawing more reiatsu, Nyarle formed many, many more clones that crowded thickly around each of the wisps, all trying to bind, claw and bite the wisps.

“My clones show you where they are. You can kill the clones also.”

She also roared her Fear Paralysis hoping that it'll affect the wisps somehow.

Nyarle turned glowing yellow eyes towards Depeche, her irritation showing clearly in her flattened ears.

“You will stop standing and watching! Attack! If you can’t attack, then create dust!”

[Mad_Scientist]

Ninian felt her attack move closer and closer to Mara's bloblike body, then suddenly stop, as though it had contacted something somehow. "An invisible shield in addition to invisible spectres?" Not a good thing. Before Ninian had much time to try and figure out what do to, she realized that she could see the monsters now, as well as a bizare net blocking her path to Mara. This newfound sight lasted only for a moment, though, and then the monsters and the net were as invisible as they ever were.

Mara spoke after this, talking about seeing shadows, and eyes not matching strength. Neither Ninian nor Alan were totally sure what he was talking about, but perhaps it had something to do with Nyarle and her ability to sense the spectres. Indeed, it seemed Nyarle was not strong enough to handle them all herself, as two of her clones were already dead, and the others injured.

“Three more unseen things! Total seven! They protect the worm with their claws,” Nyarle said.

So, it seemed likely that they 3 new spectres had blocked Ninian and the twins, and then formed the odd net she had caught a glimpse of. Perhaps Ninian could cut through the net, or stretch her abilities and make a Portal on the other side, but either would be difficult unless she could see it.

"Help me. They move too fast, I cannot get a hit. I once saw them in the dust.”

The dust, of course, that was probably the answer. Ninian immediately began to attack the ground, throwing up dust and debries. The moment the spectres became visible, she would attack them, using Matter Breakdown, and boosting her speed with her Reiatsu.

Alan, meanwhile, shot a Cero at the wall where Mara's tubes connected, and another at Mara himself. The Cero he had fired ealier in the battle had not seemed to hurt Mara much, but it at least had managed to shake Mara and scatter dust everywhere. It should help make the spectres visible.

"Lala, Lulu, one of you help Ninian kill the spectres once they are visible again!"

[Final Boss]

Lala jumped back, refusing to follow the orders of someone ranked lower than herself. Lulu sighed as she moved towards Ninian she wasn't going to let her stubborn sister ruin everything for them. She stayed near Ninian pounding the ground with her shield causing dust and debris to scatter everywhere, once she spotted a ghost she swung her giant shield powerfully seeing if it would do any real harm to the specters.

Lala, you can at least help Alan.

Lala pouted, she hated doing nothing. She jumped near Alan and began to fire off numerous Bala at the floor and walls causing large amounts of dust in the area. She also shot down the Nyarle clones, smiling cheerfully as the burst into smoke. She had Guerrero at the ready should any of the phantoms approach Alan or her. At the sight of a useless Depeche Lala fired a Bala dangerously close to the Arrancar.

"Oi Bilbo! Make yourself useful and do something!"

[Kolbertt]

Depeche had fixed feelings. On one side, the Espada had all realised that the ghosts became visible to all when there was dust in the air... On the other side, he was closer to just strangle Lala... Bit his professional honor just prevented him from doing anything else.

He unsheathed his Katar, and pointed forward.

"Sasu;Colmena"

His previously unseen Hollow Mask now had formed a pair of compound eyes directly over his head. His hands where now replaced by a pair of what looked like a bee's Abdomen, complete with a black sting on each hand.

His thorax had become much muscular, and a puffed white scarf had appeared on his neck. But most importantly, a pair of transparent wings that buzzed at the speed of sound raised an abnormal amount of dust in the area... Of course, since Depeche could also release a golden dust from his wings.

The combined efforts of Espada and Depeche, created a wall of dust so thick, that the ghosts could be clearly seen. Not really ghosts, but a phyisical manifestation of Mara's power. Now that everyone could see them clearly (And the posts as well) - Mara was pretty much cornered...

[Unicorn]

But most importantly, a pair of transparent wings that buzzed at the speed of sound raised an abnormal amount of dust in the area... Of course, since Depeche could also release a golden dust from his wings..

Nyarle prided herself on her sensitive nose and ears, especially in released form. In this situation, with all the things trying to kill her and having to cope with the increasing dust and noise in the air, she was developing a headache.

The last straw was Depeche turning into a honeybee and spreading pollen everywhere. Nyarle hated honeybees, their pollen, and their irritating noises.

She curled all 5 tails around Depeche and hauled him up and around. He was now hanging in mid-air, in front of her glaring eyes.

"Stop buzzing, insect." She snarled, then looked puzzled for a moment before issuing a series of sneezes. And her eyes began to water. Nyarle shook Depeche hard. "How much pollen did you release?!!"

...

In the meantime, her clones could now see their targets properly, where previously they were clawing and biting at fast-moving wisps. They began to attack in earnest, the various packs tearing the insect-ghosts limb from limb.

[Mad_Scientist]

With the spectres now visible, things were going more smoothly. Even Nyarle's clones, previously outmatched, fared much better now that they could plainly see their foes, rather then only vaguely sense them.

Still, Ninian wanted to end the fight quickly, before Mara had time to unveil any new tricks, so she now glanced at the net that had blocked her before. She could clearly see that it was formed from extended claws. Claws and fangs and the like were usually made of sturdy spiritual matter, and took a while to cut even for Ninian's Matter Breakdown. However...

Skulking near the sides were the bodies of the 3 spectres that had formed the net. Their bodies should be much easier to destroy.

In an instand, Ninian had sonidoed near one and cut it in half, and Alan had done the same for another. During his movements, he had fired a spray of Bala at the third. With the net now collapsing, Mara would soon be vulnerable. Lala and Lulu would certainly relish the chance to cut him up, but Ninian decided it might be best to provide backup as well, just in case something else unexpected happened, so she readied her own attack.

As she did so, Alan's thoughts reached her: "Poor, poor Depeche." Ninian had only been vaguely aware of something going on between Depeche and Nyarle, but couldn't really catch a good glimpse of it. Now she was curious, though.

[Final Boss]

Lala looked jealously as Depeche was picked up by Nyarle's tail, why did he get a free ride?! She wasn't going to allow Bilbo the pleasure of riding the huge kitty cat. Lala swiftly jumped onto Nyarle's back, quickly kicking Depeche out of the tiger's grasp, and grabbed tightly onto her ears.

"Giddy up horsie!! Go go go!!"

Lala urged Nyarle to move excitedly, one hand violently pulling on Nyarle's ear while the other kept a firm grip on Guerrero. In the meantime Lulu watched with slight interest, it sure looked fun riding on the massive cat.

Mounted on a giant tiger, Lala charge forward through the opening created by both Alan and Ninian and straight towards Mara. He was a disgusting sight and Lala would enjoy dicing him into tiny pieces. She swung her sword numerously with a great amount of force hoping to carve the gross sight into small pieces. Lulu held Guarda at the ready and moved close behind her sister ready to provide backup if necessary.

[Unicorn]

Nyarle had thought that the last straw was Depeche revealing himself as a honeybee. She was proven very wrong. The last straw was actually Lala as she violently kicked her tails (forcing her to release the honeybee), sat on her neck whilst kicking, tried to twist both her ears off, and called her horsie!!.

She twisted her head around, fully intending to drag the child off and dismantle it organ by organ. Her plans were interrupted by yet another series of violent sneezes.

When Nyarle recovered, she noticed 9th clearing the protective net around their opponent. The yanking on her ear grew more violent.

She very reluctantly decided to take the battle advantage and kill the obese worm, since no-one else was doing the killing. After that, she was going to get rid of the noisier half of 5th Espada.

Nyarle leapt forward and over the protective net, landed near the worm and let Lala do her attacks.

In the meantime, Nyarle kept on high alert for any ambushes or tricks.

[Kolbertt]

Even if annoyed beyond normal levels, Depeche had now entered his inner world, and was just nodding blindly at the stupidness of the situation.

Yet, he was amazed enough when he found out that the combined efforts of the Espada had passed through Mara's deception, as Lala stabbed the worm with her Claymore.

Mara opened his eyes, like in disbelief, when the claymore penetrated his stomach... But instead of shocked, he seemed... Happy.

There was a strong light in the room, and Lala could sense how her claymore was pushed backwards violently.

Mara's body was now an empty shell, and from the wound Lala had opened, a large mixture between a fish and a snake was emerging. It sported Mara's mask, but looked much cleaner, better, and stronger.

"I must thank you Espada!" He said in a strong voice, that completelly contrasted the weakness of his previous words. "For killing that nasty bitch! You see, that bastard wouldn't die even after I had swallowed her whole, and was giving me rather a hard time. Hell, not even with the water I could digest her fast enough!! But once that Zanpakuto pierced her skull, I was able to FINALLY absorb her. Now..."

He unlocked his new body's power... But instead of facing the Espada, he arked, and left through the shattered window into the unseen horizont.

There was a moment of silence, but Depeche soon realized what was going on.

"QUICK!! We must catch him!!"

As he dispelled his weapons into normal hands, Depeche pushed everyone through the window while explaining.

"Mara is most probably going for the source of the water!! The purest the water is, the strongest he becomes from it! That's the reason why he was able to fight on par with you!"

It was frightening to think in possible outcomes. If Mara absorbed the water in it's purest form, he could pretty much become a Vasto Lorde... Or worse.

Not really wanting to wait anymore, Depeche jumped off -

"I've covered the room with pheromones. As long as Mara is inside my reach, I can track him down. Just follow me"

He flew through the window, Mara was only a small dot in the horizont... But even further away, there seemed to be something like a fountain, where water oozed out freely. Most probably, Mara's goal.

[Unicorn]

He unlocked his new body's power... But instead of facing the Espada, he arked, and left through the shattered window into the unseen horizont.

There was a moment of silence, but Depeche soon realized what was going on.

"QUICK!! We must catch him!!"

As he dispelled his weapons into normal hands, Depeche pushed everyone through the window while explaining.

Thanks to her 4-second foresight, Nyarle already sensed that Depeche really wanted to hunt the worm down before Depeche actually announced it. She (and by default Lala) were the only ones that were already leaping out of the window in chase before Depeche had to push everyone out.

Nyarle's lip curled in a feral smile as she dismissed all but 2 of her clones. Each clone wrapped tails around Alan and Lulu, and followed Nyarle in the hunt.

"I've covered the room with pheromones. As long as Mara is inside my reach, I can track him down. Just follow me"

He flew through the window, Mara was only a small dot in the horizont... But even further away, there seemed to be something like a fountain, where water oozed out freely. Most probably, Mara's goal.

Having all but forgotten the little terror on her neck, Nyarle revelled in the chase, the wide open spaces where she could add sonido to her already formidable speed.

Sprinting in mid-air with great leaping bounds (ref: cheetah), she raced Depeche, her clones and the wind. The dot in the distance grew larger.

...

ooc: if you wish to sonido at your own speed, feel free to hop off your not-so-friendly temporary transport vehicle. :D

[Mad_Scientist]

So Mara had found some way to absorb the water at an abnormal level, and that had fueled the transformation. Perhaps it was the absorbing of the Adjucha Naamah that had allowed Mara to use the water to such a great degree, as he had had access to the pure water for a long time, but only recently gained power like this. Regardless, water that could transform Adjuchas like that, and perhaps even further, was dangerous. Alan was almost tempted to try and befoul the water after getting a sample, but he supposed he should wait. There might be ways for them to use the water themselves, and they might need access to a pure source if that became the case.

"How long are you going to let yourself be carried?" Ninian's thought came through. "Just a little while longer, I'm curious about the strength and stamina of the 10th Espada and her clones. They didn't fare as well in actual combat as the Espada herself, and not just because they poofed out when suffering a heavy hit, but now one is doing a great job of carrying me. Perhaps the greater the number, the weaker they are?" was Alan's lengthy reply.

"But I suppose I shouldn't spend too much time analysing our allies till after Mara is dead," Alan sighed. "Nyarle... er, clone of Nyarle, thanks for the help, but it will probably be easier if I move myself." Alan carefully extracted himself from her tail's grip, then started sonidoing at high speed towards Mara. Mara may have an agile form, but it seemed he couldn't keep up with sonido. Unfortunately, it wasn't yet clear whether they would reach him before he reached the water.

Ninian, meanwhile, had been left behind, but that didn't matter since she could teleport next to Alan whenever she wanted to. Right now, she was examining the room the rest had just left, but she couldn't find any clues that might help them understand Mara's transformation. Looking off in the distance and the direction Mara and the other Espada were going, there didn't seem to be any way for her to cut Mara off or anything. Thus, she created a Portal, and the next moment was sonidoing next to Alan.

[Final Boss]

"Woohoo!"

Lala rode happily on Nyarle as they pursued Mara. One of their goals in this mission was to acquire a pure sample of the water, if they allowed Mara to get there first then it was highly likely that the water would be contaminated. Lala looked back to see her sister following behind on a clone Nyarle had created and smiled.

"It's a race!! You'll never beat me Lulu, faster horsie faster!!"

Lala continued to pull at the tiger's ear, urging her to move faster as they closed the distance between themselves and Mara.

[Unicorn]

Nyarle flicked her ears in annoyance. She had almost forgotten about the little terror. How to make the little one more useful...

She opened her jaws and fired a cero at the fleeing Mara. Then spoke with a distinct purr.

"Oh Noisy One, is your cero better than mine?"

[Final Boss]

Lala smirked, normally she would refuse to help out but Nyarle had challenged her. She wasn't going to let that pass.

"Pshh, watch how you really shoot a cero!"

Lulu, help me shoot that flying snake down!

Lala charged a powerful cero and fired at Mara, while Lulu began to send a barrage of Bala at the flying snake in hopes of slowing him down.

[Unicorn]

Nyarle curled her lip in a satisfied smile as her plan worked.

She fired another cero from her jaws. "My cero is bigger than yours, little one." Nyarle purred smugly. "Maybe when you've grown up much much more, you can match my cero."

[Final Boss]

Lala looked with frustration as Nyarle's cero dwarfed her own, she was tempted to get Lulu and release but refused. She knew that she could best Nyarle alone. With more determination and a burning rivalry Lala began to form another cero. She released it and to her satisfaction it was much larger than before.

"Haha! Beat that kitty cat!!"

Lulu continued to provide backup fire and continued to send volleys of Bala straight towards Mara.

[Unicorn]

"Ooooh thats a much stronger cero." Nyarle agreed. "Almost as big as my cero... oh no, my cero is still just slightly bigger, don't you think?"

"Did you want to compare ceros again? Look, here's mine again."

And Nyarle fired off another powerful cero.

[Kolbertt]

All this fireworks only made Mara nervous. The Espada had proven to be deadly and inteligent, and there was no way he could defeat them in fair combat, even with his new and enhaced body...

To make matter worse, one of the last Cero's had reached him, it was hard to tell who had shot it [OOC: Ambiguous to make your conversation much more interesting :fu] but it had seriously hampered his movement. Luckily, he was just a few metres away from "La Fuente" - The source of this miracle water... He threw himself whole at the fountain, with it's mouth opened wide, he attempted to swallow it whole.

The result was shocking. The lump of water that Mara was heading to, just repelled him back, breaking his teeth as he bounced off. In the meantime, the Espada reached the middle of the lake, and this mysterious water lump. However, Mara had touched it already...

The flow of water was slowly ending, until it stopped completelly. Now that the water had stopped, the lump was clearly an egg-shapped cocoon. The cocoon cracked, and shattered. A pair of elegant beautiful wings, shaped like a butterfly, opened up, revealing a beautiful woman with elegant features, ivory-white hair. Her arms were visible wounded, and oozed blood... blood that became transparent and clear in contact with air... Clear and transparent like water.

Depeche was shocked by the revelation... "The butterfly from the myth... I could have never thought it had a LITERAL meaning. The water that brought peace and suffering at the same time... It was not water, but blood"

Upon hearing these words, the butterfly opened her eyes - Dark hunter green eyes - The wounds in her arms healed and the blood stopped. She eyed everyone surrounding her, and unleashed a wave of reiatsu so strong, that none had ever seen or felt... A wave of reiatsu even higher than that of the Espada. The Reiatsu of a Vasto Lorde.

"You... What have you done to my dream?"

[Mad_Scientist]

"Nothing intentional was done by us." Ninian's answer came promptly, her gesture taking in herself, Alan, and her fellow Espada, along with Depeche. "To be honest, no one even knew you were here until just now.

But the one who is likely responsible for interupting your dream is that one." Ninian pointed at Mara. "He was trying to use your blood to increase his own power, and just moments ago tried to swallow you whole, though I don't think he quite realized precisely what he was doing at the time."

Ninian carefully edged herself away from Mara after saying this, and Alan was carefully moving back from the lake the whole time, getting ready to flee if need be.

[Unicorn]

Nyarle watched in satisfaction as Mara was hit badly by her cero.

"See? Noisy little cubs can't meow and attack properly at the same time."

She noticed that Mara was getting dangerously close to the water, and speeded up. Her senses tingled warningly. Mara managed to reach the water and it... reacted.

Nyarle and her clone were already swerving away when the lake dried up and another woman was revealed. An