Seize The Day [Open to Two Others - No Fighting]

Kohana had left the office of the Rokubantaicho rather quickly, reporting only that she was going to be in the Inuzuri District of the Rukongai. She needed some time to herself, but also seeked a bit of advice from two very important people in her life. Kohana walked with a quickened pace as she neared the home of her Mother and Father. The place seemed a little run down now, thn again it's been around for almost three hundred years. Kohana smiled softly as she noticed a woman in front of the house, tending the gardens that Kohana planted when she was a child. The woman was no taller than Kohana and looked to be no older than her late fourties. Her long, smokey grey hair tumbled down her back, her deep emerald occuli shimmering behind her long bangs. She was dressed in an aqua blue sun dress, much like the ones Kohana wore when in her gigai. Kohana took a few more steps forward, smiling even more as a man stepped out of the house and started speaking to the woman. The man was Kohana's father. He was almost a foot taller than the woman, his short salt and pepper tinted hair was combed back neatly. His gentle sapphire blue eyes looked lovingly upon the woman he loved. It was the same kind of look she always got from Vincenzo whenever she was with him. Kohana watched as her father lea her mother inside. That's when Kohana decided to continue and pay them a visit.

Kohana walked to the front door and knocked twice. A clammer came from inside before footsteps were heard, growing louder as they came to the door. The door opened, revealing her Father being the once to answer. Kohana looked up at the man and smiled softly. Hello, Father... The male's eyes lit up and he swiftly took Kohana into his warm arms. Ko-Ko! It's been too long, my dear. Your Mother and I have been wondering when you'd pay us old coots a visit. Kohana couldn't help chuckling. She hugged her father back as she heard more footsteps approaching, followed by a gentle feminine voice that Kohana knew all to well. Hanataro, Dear, who was at the....Kohana! A pleasant surprise! We weren't expecting you! Do come in and have some tea with us. Hanataro, let her go! You'll crush the girl! Kohana blinked and smiled, glancing up at her mother. Hello to you too, Mother...and he won't crush me. I'm small, not made of glass. She smiled and wriggled free as she felt her Father's arms loosen from around her. She stepped inside more, letting her father close the door. She realized how long it has been since she had been in this place. She was only ten years old when she left to the Academy. She hadn't been home since. She had so much to share with her parents. She didn't know where to start. She felt her Father's gentle nudges as he pushed her near the kitchen table. She smiled and took his hint, sitting down in the middle chair. The same chair she always sat in when she ate dinner with her parents. Her mother poured three cups of tea for them before sitting in the chair to the right, her father taking the one to the left. So, Kohana, tell us everything you've been up to lately. Itls been so long since we've seen you. We want to know everything. Did you finally get a boyfriend? Kohana's father arched a brow, his right eye twitching slightly at his wife's comment about a boyfriend. I'm sure Ko-Ko has no interest in boys....She's far too smart for them.. The man huffed and took a sip of his tea. Kohana sat silently for a moment, stirring her tea before she spoke. Well....that's why I'm here...I need advice....I've...I've fallen deeply in love with someone... Before she could go on, her mother let out a squeal of delight while her father grunted and continued to sip her tea. Befor they could say anything, Kohana continued. ...he's human... Her mother's jaw dropped, her father now practically choking on his tea. He sputtered a bit and coughed before gasping out his words. A-A human?! Are you mad, Ko-Ko?! How can a soul love a living being? You must be ill! You're staying home for a while! Kohana's mother sighed and tried to calm the man. Oh relax, Hanataro....Let her explain before you get all worked up... Kohana...why, of all people, would you fall for a human..? You realize that he doesn't live as long as we do, and that when he dies, he may not even remember you if he ends up here, right? Kohana knew they'd answer like that. She sighed and sipped her tea. They gave the same response that Lightning and Izuru did. She sighed once more and glanced at her parents. Her father was all puffed up like an angry rooster, and her mother looked concerned. I know all that, Mother, but you of all people should understand... The way his eyes first met mine...the first time he spoke my name...the first touch..the first kiss...it was all sheer bliss...I knew from the moment I saw this man...that he was the one...Human or not...I love him...just as he does me...and nothing will sway my feelings towards him... Kohana's parents looked dumbfounded for a moment, then they both smiled and looked at each other. I trust you, Kohana...trust your heart. If you are so set on this human boy, then I simply cannot say anything that will change your mind. You were always quite stubborn when you had your heart set on something. Hanataro huffed again and sipped his tea. If he breaks your heart, Ko-Ko....I'll break every bone in his weak human body... Kohana smiled, pleased that they weren't going to repremand her like her superiors did. She just sat quietly at the table, enjoying her tea and the company of her parents.

After spending a few hours with her parents, Kohana was put in a much better mood. She spoke with them on what she should do about her situation involving her captain and his trust issues with her. They told her to give it time and let everything play out in the way it was going to go. Her mother told her to prove to her captain that his distrust of her was silly. Anyone who know Kohana was well aware that she was an incredibly trustworthy person. Kohana's father was still too hung up on the human thing. She couldn't help laughing as he sat there, grumbling to himself about the whole thing. After a while, she decided to take her leave, much to her parents' protests. I promise to visit more often...but I want to get a little fresh air before I head back to the barracks.. She rose to her feet, only to be ambushed by her parents who now smothered the small girl in hugs and kisses. Kohana managed to wriggle free and bid the couple adieu. She would definately visit more often. It was nice to be able to speak to those who knew Kohana best. She left her childhood home and started to walk on her own through the Rukongai on her own, enjoying the crisp, fresh air the evening had to offer.

Bored bored bored bored bored...
Maku's thoughts beat in time to his footsteps as he plodded along the dusty track. The Inuzuri district was particularly quiet today, the fresh air was refreshing, crisp and interminably dull. Maku let his thoughts wander, dwelling on the odd rumour he had been hearing about strange murders occuring within the human world. Having not been there in several decades, Maku wondered whether this was being caused by Hollow or something more sinister...
He stopped, and did a double take. In the distance he could make out a figure walking towards him. Another Soul Reaper? He was sure he was the only member of the Gotei 13 assigned to be on patrol today. He quickened his pace. Who could it be?

Kohana walked along the dusty trail, greeting those from her childhood. It was nice visiting her old residential area. So many memories, be it good or bad. She then sensed something. A spiritual pressure of a Shinigami, and a seated officer at that. She lifted her bi-colored gaze off of the ground and looked directly in front of her, noticing someone running towards her. Who was this person. Kohana stopped in her tracks and shifted her gaze to her feet. She waited to see if the person was coming towards her, or if he/she was going to run past her.

Maku slowed as he approached the figure. It was definitely a Shinigami, a slight girl with light blue hair. Although wearing a kimono, he could feel he spiritual pressure as being high. He searched his memory, trying to recall where he had seen her before...
He stopped, having had a thought. Though he had never met her, he had heard rumours of the Lieutenant of the third division, and she matched the description pretty well. Cocking his head, he looked her up and down as she looked demurely at the floor. She seemed very young to hold such a position. And why did she appear nervous? If she was higher than him in rank, and had no reason to be shy as she must be used to command. Oh well, he thought, no point speculating over such things. He had a job to do after all. If she was a genuine officer he'd soon find out.
Walking towards her, he stopped around ten feet away and bowed respectfully. This close, he could feel her high spiritual pressure, though she appeared to be concealing it well.
"Good evening, Vice-Captain," he said, straightening up. "I am Maku Kazashimo from Squad 7. I apologize for the intrusion, but may I ask what brings you to Rukongai this evening? I was not informed of anyone's presence in advance."

[Just so you know, she has blue hair, and is wearing a light blue kimono. She has her arm band hidden in her sash~ ^^]

Kohana looked up as the person drew close. Her bi-colored eyes focused on the man that now stood before her. She took a step back, creating more space between them. She didn't like being close to any man but Vincenzo and her Father. She heard him introduce himself as the third seat of Squad Seven. Kohana politely bowed her head, then spoke in her soft, gentle voice. I am Vice Captain Kohana Hirikano of Squad Three....and I was simply getting advice from two important people.....I take it you are on patrol, Mr. Kazashimo? Kohana remained oh so polite, despite her rather morose mood. She still felt upset about the fact that her captain didn't trust her. It killed her inside and seemed to change the girl emotionally. She brought her right hand up and brushed a few locks of aqua blue hair from her eyes, giving the male a better view. She revealed them to be two different colors. Her right eye was a vivid emerald green, the left being a deep sapphire blue. She fell silent once again and just stood there a while, waiting for the male to speak.

(Fixed )

As she looked up, Maku noticed her strange but not unattractive eye coloration. He relaxed. This was definitely her.
"My apologies, Vice-Captain," he said. "I'm indeed on patrol, and someone with such distinction is unusual to find in this district..."
Hirikano, Hirikano...he looked back along the track the way she had come. Ah, of course, the Hirikano household was a little way away in that direction. The two important people she mentioned must be her parents. He looked back at her. He was very good at reading people's emotions, part of the people skills necessary to be a liason to the people of Rukon, and he could tell that something was bothering her behind the polite mask.
Looking at the setting sun, he assessed the time. About time he was heading back to the Seretei. She seemed so glum, maybe she would like some company.
"I'm about to head back to the barracks," he said. He decided to be blunt. "If you're heading that way too, would you like me to accompany you? I'm generally known as a friendly ear, if you have something on your mind."
Idiot Idiot Idiot why did he have to go and say that?! She's a Lieutenant for goodness' sake! She certainly doesn't need an escort! Inside he cowered back, expecting the chill reply and haughty dismissal.

[So, SO sorry for the late post x.x I'm still getting used to being a Mother and the lack of free time that comes with the job. My deepest apologies e_e;]

Kohana listened as the man offered her an escort back to the Seireitei, a faint and ever rare smile tugging at the corners of her lips. The only time she smiled was when she was with Vincenzo, but this male's actions seemed to have drawn out the rare facial expression. She nodded to the man before speaking in her usual gentle tone. I will join you....it would be nice to have decent company.... Kohana gave the man a soft smile and awaited his response.

(That's ok I understand real life comes first Quick question: I was wondering about the name of your Zanpaktou. Ichirin No Hana translates as 'One Flower of Flower'. Did you know? Solitary flower would be Samishii Ichirin - Solitary Single Flower)

Maku barely managed to conceal his astonishment, but he was pleasantly surprised. He bowed again, a smile breaking out on his face despite his best efforts to appear serious.
Turning toward the Seireitei, the two of them began walking at a leisurely pace. The sun was now setting, and the sky a mild orange. A single star shone above the eastern horizon. Maku smiled, the sight of the star bringing back memories of an old friend. Maybe it's about time I got back in touch, he thought. It's been years since I heard anything of him...
He mentally pinched himself. He must look an idiot gazing into space like that. He turned to the girl next to him, who was looking at him quizzically. He cleared his throat nervously.
"So," he said, "I guess you must know Rukongai well. Do you come and visit often?"

[Well Kohana's name literally means "Young Flower" so I think the name works perfectly~]

Kohana's eyes remained in front of her as she walked with the man. She had several thoughts racing through her head. She was confused and distraught, though it didn't show on her exterior. She kept her emotions hidden from those that she didn't know. It made it harder for them to read her. Her thoughts were broken by the sound of the man's voice. She looked up, her attention turning towards him as he asked about how often she visited the area. Kohana turned her gaze to the ground, looking at her feet. Not often enough.... Kohana wasn't much of a talker. She was more of the strong, silent type. This added to her lack of friends in the Seireitei. Along with her timid nature, Kohana's overall silent personality often drove away others. She never likes rowdy or loud people, and did her best to avoid them. She wasn't one for the "party scene." Kohana let out a soft sigh and placed her hand on the hilt of her Zanpakuto, it giving off a deep green glow upon receiving her touch.

[kk :-)]

Maku noticed Kohana place her hand on her Zanpaktou, and he swallowed nervously. Was she irritated by him? To make things worse, Suzuyaiba hummed in response, its light green glow sparkling in contrast to the warmer, darker green of its counterpart. He quickly clamped his hand around her hilt, hoping Kohana hadn't noticed.
He could sympathise with her though. It must be hard having the duties of a vice-captain. Even as a third seat he never had much free time himself. Well, at least she had some family she could visit. He sighed. Ever since that time, he had not thought about his only surviving relative, if you could call him that. He pushed the thought away. One day, brother, but not yet.
"I generally come out here to get some time alone when I'm not on patrol," he said. "I find the country air refreshing, and it's usually quiet." He noticed her sword still glowing, and a thought struck him. Maybe there was something he could do for her without her having to talk aloud about her worries...
"Vice-Captain, may I make you an offer? I come out here on patrol fairly regularly, and I know the Hirikano household by sight if nothing else. If you like, I can deliver any messages or letters you may have to and from your family. I know you must be very busy and have little time to visit."

Kohana gave the male a kind smile and nodded in response to his offer. That would be wonderful... Kohana then took her hand from her sword. At that moment, a figure appeared between the two. The figure was rather tall, standing at six feet. He had waist length, forest green hair, styled in dread locks. Each lock had a bright green vine, about four centimeters thick, wrapped tightly around it. There were two to three jagged leaves projecting from the vines. His skin was a very pale, almost whitish green hue, giving him almost a sickly look. His eyes were a piercing crimson hue. His body had a sturdy, muscular build. Each muscle is well defined, making him look quite cut. He had four diagonal line markings on his face, two on each cheek. They markings were a deep violet in color and run parallel to the other. The markings on the right cheek ran left to right, the outer mark starting just below the center of his bottom eye lid and stops just at the center of his jaw. The inner mark ran from the corner of his eye to the corner of his jaw. The marks on his left cheek run the same way, but go left to right. His attire consisted of nothing more than forest green hakama pants. His chest was completely bare except for a set of criss-crossing vines that loop over each shoulder and wrap around his waist. The vines were about an inch thick and have various jagged leaves and violet tinted thorns scattered about the vines. He wore only straw waraji sandals on his feet, they also being forest green in color. His sixkly green lips curled into a devilish smile, his arm draping around Kohana. This figure was Ichirin No Hana.

Who the hell is this punk, Ko-Ko? And what the hell are you doing with him? I thought you were screwing around with a human! Ichirin No Hana spoke in hus usual deep, gruff voice. He wasn't sure if Maku could see him or not, and didn't care. All he cared about was Kohana, who was blushing furiously as the crude spirit spoke of her romance with Vincenzo.

Maku glared up at the tall figure now standing before him. Punk, huh? Without taking his eyes off the figure, he addressed Kohana,
"So this is your zanpaktou, Vice-Captain?" he said, "I'm surprised; I was expecting it to be as charming as you, but I guess not all swords match their masters. No offence, but he could use an attitude adjustment."
Ichirin no Hana growled at him. Maku felt himself getting angry in turn. Who did this guy think he was, talking so rudely to his owner, let alone him? He planted his legs apart and folded his arms. The air between the two men crackled.
Kohana was about to speak when she heard a soft sigh in her ear and a voice whispered, "Shall we leave them to it, my dear? Boys will be boys after all!"
Turning, Kohana looked into the smiling face of a pretty woman with bushy, sand-coloured hair and brown eyes, wearing a green kimono with patterns of white and yellow, and a necklace made of small silver wind chimes. She was quite tall, and had to bend down to get her head close to Kohana's. She grinned cheekily, winked and straightened up, her necklace tinkling merrily. Then she turned, walked off a little way and sat down on the grass. She patted the turf beside her. The two men didn't appear to see her, and continued trying to out-stare one another.
"Shall we have a little chat, just us girls?" the woman asked, "Unlike my master I don't have a stubborn streak, but I do share his inquisitiveness, and I noticed the bit about a human even if he didn't." She grinned and winked again. "Why don't you tell me all about him, and what seems to be bugging you? Don't try and hide behind that serious face," she laughed, "I find it better to get things off my chest. And don't worry about the boys; they can't see me unless I let them, and I'm sure they'll be too engrossed in their own macho contest to hear what we're saying."

Kohana exhaled slowly, annoyed with Ichirin No Hana's rude interruption. He was now in a fierce staring battle with Maku. How troublesome. Kohana opened her mouth to speak, but was swiftly silenced by a gentle whisper in her ear. She froze, the sudden voice startling the timid young woman. Slowly, she turned to face the sorce, finding a rather beautiful, and tall, woman staring at her with a grin on her face. Kohana looked at her curiously, deducing that she was Maku's Zanpakuto spirit by the way she spoke. As the woman invited her for a little private chat, Kohana followed. She sat beside the woman, another faint sigh passing her rose tinted lips. Kohana was truly troubled, and it would feel nice to talk it out with someone. As you may have already guessed....I am rather troubled....you see...I fell in love with a human....but...because of this taboo romance...My Captain doesn't trust me....he probably thinks I'll betray the Soul Society......It kills me to know that he feels that way....I...I love Vincenzo, but I already explained to him about the circumstances....I am permitted to see him as long as I don't speak the secrets of the Seireitei....I have held up that part of the deal with no problem....I just.... Kohana froze, her body going rigid as she started to shake like a leaf. Her head bowed, her bangs falling over her face. Small tears began to fall onto her tightly clenched fists that currently rested on her lap. The poor girl was so conflicted. Love or Loyalty? She was confused. Ichirin No Hana just happened to glance over to find Kohana in tears. He fumed and glared angrily at Maku. What the hell did you do to Ko-Ko, you prick?! If you touched her....I'll rip your fucking lungs out through your asshole!! Ichirin No Hana snarled while he spoke in his usual crude manner. He wasn't one to censor himself, especially when it came to Kohana's well being.

Maku fumed, turning beet red. He was so incensed he couldn't speak. Done to her? He'd done nothing whatsoever. About to let loose a furious tirade, he stopped, startled, as Suzuyaiba in her human form became visible, sitting next to Kohana on the grass.
"Now, now," she said, "there's really no need for such language. Your mistress and I have been having a little private chat. Be a good boy and calm down, she is in no danger, I assure you."
Maku was relieved, but a little surprised. He had no idea that Suzuyaiba could hide from him like that whilst manifested. He was about to reprimand her but suddenly got distracted by the arrival of a Hell Butterfly. He held his hand out and it landed on his finger, and he started to listen to the message it contained.
Meanwhile, Suzuyaiba turned back to Kohana.
"Now then, where were we?" she said. "Ah yes, that's right. I know Izaru Kira of old, and I know he's a bit of a stick-in-the-mud, but I can't believe he'd think you of all people would betray the Soul Society. Has he actually told you he doesn't trust you? Maybe you're reading a little too much into this. After all, it is an ususual situation but I can't see anything wrong with it. You love who you love, no matter their race." At this, she glanced at Maku, who was still listening to the Hell Butterfly, frowning and looking a little shaken.

Ichirin no Hana's right eye twitched in annoyance as Maku's Zanpakuto spirit spoke to him. He clenched his sharp white teeth and inhaled with a hiss before going off on the woman. Who the hell are you now, you damn cunt?! How do you know how Ko-Ko is doing?! I suggest you mind your own goddamn business! His attention then turned to Kohana, his attitude making a complete one-eighty. Ko-Ko....You are alright, aren't you? This shit for brains didn't youch you, did he? Kohana looked up at Ichirin No Hana and shook her head lightly, she then hearing him sigh in relief. She then heard Suzuyaiba talking to her again. The woman's words brought a slight smile to her face. Finally. Someone who didn't see her as a traitor for her choice in a mate. Kohana thought to herself for a moment, her eyes drifting shut as she sat a moment in thought. She was silent for a long time before speaking once more. I know what I need to do....I need to speak to Izuru-Taicho....Maku-Kun.....Please accompany me..? She noticed Maku had a frown on his face, then noticed the butterfly. Something wasn't right...

Suzuyaiba let Ichirin no Hana's insults wash over her. Dear dear, she thought, this young lady really needs to get a handle on her zanpaktou. What an oaf...
She was becoming a little concerned for her own master though. She could feel Maku's emotions and he was leaping from worry to joy to confusion.
Standing up, she walked over to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. He looked round at her and smiled.
"I'm fine," he said, "A bit of good news mixed in with the bad."
He turned to Kohana.
"Of course I'll accompany you to see your captain, if you need some support. I've been ordered back to the barracks. It seems since no-one has heard from my Captain in so long, he's been declared officially missing. I've been promoted to Second Seat." He smiled. "I've now got to report in to the new Captain. Still, I'm sure there's no rush just yet. Let's go and see your Captain first."
"I realise you care for Kohana a lot," he said, addressing Ichirin no Hana, "But if we go to see Captain Kira I think you should stay hidden. Going off on one at her superior isn't going to do her any favors."

Kohana watched as Suzuyaiba slowly made her way to her master, she placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. She heard Ichirin No Hana scoff as Maku relayed his news. Kohana smiled softly and bowed slightly. Congratulations.....Vice Captain..... Her smile remained as Maku mentioned that he'd accompany her for support as she went to confront Izuru about the trust issue that had been eating her alive since her meeting with Lightning. She then heard Maku now speaking to Ichirin No Hana, telling him to remain hidden during the meeting. The verdant spirit scoffed once again, he now appearing behind Kohana as she rose to her feet. She let out a faint grunt as the spirit grabbed her and pulled her against his bare chest. Kohana looked off to the side while Ichirin No Hana began to rant once more. [Color=yellow] Pffft! That guy is nothing but a fairy boy! I'm not afraid of the emo punk! He's too busy drooling over his traitor for a captain! And what's worse? I heard things while roaming the halls while Ko-Ko and the rest of the division was sleeping. Things were going down in Mr. Prissy-Pants' room. The grunts, moans, and groans were all male! Mr. Prissy-Pants is screwing someone! Some guy! And I'll discover who the fuck the little ass bandit is. I don't want that kind of crap around Kohana! I'll be damned if she--- Ichi-dono..... Ichirin No Hana silenced his rant and looked down at the small woman with a "What the hell do you want" look in his deep crimson orbs. Enough......you may remain present...just...try to hold your tongue today....It's going to rain tonight.....consider a rain shower as your reward if you behave yourself... Ichirin No Hana smirked and embraced Kohana tighter, the thorns on his arms now digging in and tearing her kosode a little. Damn it, Ko-Ko.....ugh...fine...I'll keep my trap shut....but if he makes you cry lie last time...I'll go off! Got that?! No one makes Ko-Ko cry on my watch! He hugged Kohana closer, his thorns digging into her soft flesh now. Kohana chuckled slightly. Wait? A chuckle?! The ever stoic female finally let out a chuckle. The closest to a laugh that she had gotten in a long time. The faint chuckle caught Ichirin No Hana's attention. He grinned and kissed the top of the young woman's head. That's more like it...You're cute when you laugh.. Ichirin No Hana spoke, mimicking Vincenzo's voice. This caused Kohana to blush fiercely.

Maku couldn't help but smile, watching Kohana and her zanpaktou embrace. Suzuyaiba nudged him and winked.
"See," she said, in the privacy of his own head, "there is tenderness there. He may act callous, but he really does care for her." She looked at Ichirin no Hana thoughtfully. "He's strong, too. He'll take care of her all right." She looked sidelong at her master.
"Now that you're vice-captain, I guess we should do some extra training if we want to become as strong as those two are. With all these people still unaccounted for we need all the strength we can get."
Maku looked at her, a little surprised. "That's not like you; you're normally as lazy as I am when it comes to training. Still," he said, "I don't deny you're right. Maybe I should ask about special permission... with these rumours of beasts stalking the Soul Society and the world of the living, we need some offensive power rather than subdual tactics. Maybe we should have a sparring match with those two soon, so we can get a feel for proper battle again."
Suzuyaiba nodded. Maku stepped forward.
"So, vice-captain Hirikano, shall we get going?" he asked. "We should head back to the barracks now if we want to make it before sunset."

Kohana and Ichirin No Hana both looked up as Maku said that they should be heading back to the barracks. Kohana nodded and managed to pry herself from her Zanpakuto's constricting, possessive embrace. However, she didn't escape without damage being done by Ichirin No Hana's thorns. She heard a loud ripping sound as she pulled away, and once free, she looked down to see a large tear in her Shihakusho, running horizontal across her torso. Kohana sighed and placed her hands over it, feeling quite embarrassed that her stomach was exposed. She turned towards Ichirin No Hana, he looking rather oblivious to the accident. Ichi-Dono.....file those thorns before you hug me again....or else I'll clip them off.... Ichirin No Hana blinked a couple of times before nervously backing away from Kohana. Alright, alright. Calm the fuck down, Ko-Ko! Geez...no need to get your fucking panties in a bunch....it's not like I hurt ya or nothing' Kohana sighed and started to walk towards Maku and Suzuyaiba with Ichirin No Hana close behind her. She stood at Maku's unoccupied side, smiling softly. Ichirin No Hana grunted and tugged Kohana a few inches away from Maku, not liking the man near his owner. Kohana sighed and looked up at her Zanpakuto spirit just as he began to speak through telepathy. Ko-Ko....If it rains tonight....let's have a spar with these two...god knows you need the fucking practice... Kohana chuckled inwardly and nodded, wondering if Maku would even be up for it. She turned back towards him before speaking. Shall we get going?

Maku smiled. "Sure. Do you want to go straight to see your Captain? It's getting late. If you'd prefer to leave it until the morning, why don't we head for the training grounds instead and let off some steam with a little sparring session? It'd be good to de-stress for a while, and you may feel a little more relaxed about your meeting afterwards. Plus I'd like to get your professional opinion of the level of my abilities. Now I'm Vice-captain I realise I'm going to have to step up a gear."
He held up his hands, aware he was letting his mouth run away with him.
"But it's entirely up to you. I'm easy." He grinned, noticing her torn clothing. "I'll understand if you want to go change first though!"

Kohana looked up at the sky as thunder rumbled through the Rukongai. Kohana heard Ichirin No Hana laughing like a madman. The rain was coming. She chuckled and glanced at Maku. It seems that the spar comes first...let's head to the training grounds... Kohana began to walk towards the seireitei, heading towards the training grounds. Ichirin No Hana was hustling behind her, itching for a fight.

[Exit to Training Grounds]

[[OOC: I'll make the topic~]]