[ kannagara app ]
PLAYER INFO
Name/Nickname: Taisa
Age: 24
Journal: sinful_lynx
AIM/MSN/IM:
AIM: xwickedxalbelx
MSN: xsinful_aspirationsx@hotmail.com
Plurk: minitaisa
Email: danceofthebutterfly@gmail.com
CHARACTER INFO
Character Name: Kuchiki Byakuya
Canon: Bleach
Point taken from canon: Manga, chapter 474
Previous Game: kannagara_net
Age: 242 (looks about 24)
Gender: Male
Preferred Village: Hisato
Appearance: Nobility starts with appearance. Whether working or sitting at home, Byakuya is never seen looking anything but his best and rarely ever seen out of his uniform, a sign of his pride in it.
Like all captains of the Gotei 13, Byakuya wears the standard shihakushou, no alterations and the captain's haori. Unlike the general uniform shared by all Shinigami, Captains have some liberty with their haori. Byakuya's particular haori bears the insignia of the sixth division, has no sleeves and a slit that runs up the middle back. The lining of his haori is a deep blue color.
Everything else he wears is another story entirely and boast his lineage. His kenseikan, the ornamental headpiece he is almost never seen without, is a sort of 'crown', representing his position as the head of the house of Kuchiki. It's often, and comically so, referred to as 'hair noodles' or 'tubes'. The Kenseikan looks like a two part device that he slips his hair through. There are three hollow structures that he put his bangs through atop his head, effectively keeping them from being directly in his face while a dual piece sits on the right side, against his temple. They are connected by a thin webbing at the back of head and held fast by looping under his hair in the middle.
Byakuya's windflower silk scarf is an heirloom, passed down the Kuchiki line to each head of the family, previously worn by Ginrei Kuchiki, his grandfather. The scarf is silver-white and, with the amount of blood that has touched its pristine surface, it seems to wash easily. It is said that the scarf alone is worth ten mansions within Seireitei, but he is rarely seen ever taking it off, even at home, symbolizing its worth lies more in what it represents, rather than the price it could fetch. The scarf is wrapped loosely around his neck, both tails falling over his shoulders enough to trail behind him. It's loose enough that he only has to flick his wrist to remove it, but secure enough that he can fight without being restricted.
The only other addition to his uniform are a pair of 'half-gloves' that appear to be out of a similar material, if not the same, as his scarf. They wrap snugly around his wrist and stop, continuing only across the back of his hand, and over his knuckles. There's a little crest in between his middle and ring finger knuckles, suggesting that it may be something else of his noble birth and more than just a fashion statement.
Byakuya has cold, black eyes that reflect nothing of what is truly going on in his head, no matter what it is he may be feeling. It is usually more his look than his words that command respect, strong and fierce, a way to boast his intimidation tactics without the size that others might have. His hair, also black, falls just past his shoulders and managed with the kenseikan. Without it, three prominent locks of hair fall into his face, making him look a bit softer than usual.
Canon Background: Byakuya's Wiki
Game Background: community.livejournal.com/kannagara_rpg/tag/kuchiki%20byakuya
community.livejournal.com/kannagara_net/tag/~kuchiki%20byakuya
Canon Personality: Born into nobility, Byakuya's personality reflects that of what one would expect of someone of his status--a cold, ruthless man who has no patience for idiocy, disrespect, or games. He holds great disdain for those who forget their place in society or attempt to trample all that he was raised to uphold and believe, particularly the laws of Soul Society.
While some of his fellow colleagues have little care for their titles, Byakuya hates nicknames and the use of his name informally. Even his own wife and sister referred to him with honorifics and respected his status among society as the head of one of four great noble families. While there are exceptions, very few regard Byakuya without some sort of title and those who don't earn his immediate dislike. So far, the only one he has ever allowed to get away with calling him by nicknames is the child Vice-Captain of the eleventh division, Yachiru.
He doesn't get along well with others due to his cold, always calm personality and rarely speaks unless he deems it necessary. There are times he comes off colder than he truly means, something that's been packed into his head ever since he was a boy. Everything is kept behind a strong mask of indifference, not even allowing his thoughts and feelings to be seen by his sister or those he holds in high regard, perhaps even considers friends. In truth, Byakuya is not really cold and heartless, but he must hold himself as a role model for all shinigami due to those titles, even when he doesn't agree and wishes to take measures to do what he feels is right. He denies that he has any emotion because when it comes between the law and his personal feelings, there is no contest--he must uphold the laws. This leaves him very much conflicted.
Even with those conflicting emotions, when he sets to complete his duty, he comes off almost robotic. He places sole trust in the laws that he was raised to believe were flawless and when he raises his sword, it's to preserve the peace that a lawful world has, a peace he treasures deeply. He will believe in no other truth.
In battle, he seems arrogant, stating that his opponent has no chance of winning or that they are arrogant for comparing themselves to him. He talks slightly more in battle and as it wears on, it usually comes out more and more the more he feels his pride is trampled on. These statements seem terribly arrogant, but Byakuya is a perceptive fighter. He doesn't speak unless he is sure of himself and whatever he says is almost always the outcome.
Byakuya, however, does care for those he trusts and respects, though the number may be few. When he comes to terms with the fact that the law is not perfect, he takes into consideration all points of view. He is rather protective of his sister and anyone who should dare raise a blade to her will face the quiet fury that seethes within, a force that even he cannot withstand.
His respect is difficult to earn, and he doesn't even seem sure how one can attain it. For those he shows great dislike to, he will refer to them as 'brat', 'boy' or, in the case of Yoruichi, 'that woman'. For those he has little care for, or those who have yet to earn his respect, he calls them by both their first and last name. Very few are ever called with their appropriate title or first name alone. The only ones he's been shown to refer to with some familiarity are his sister, Rukia, his Vice-Captain, Renji and his late wife, Hisana.
The noble Captain Kuchiki does have another side, though not what one would expect when thinking of a stoic man, cold to even his own family ties. Byakuya has been shown, on occasion, to have a sense of humor. To those listening, it may not seem like much--his jokes are unfunny, strange or hard to grasp because he gives no indication that he is, in fact, joking--but he kids around nonetheless.
There are times when Byakuya does let down that mask by displaying interest in hobbies. Most of the activities he partakes in are ones he can do by himself, but as the chairman and possibly president of the Calligraphy Society, he tends to invite people to his manor to share in club activities, even providing snacks to those who attend. He also goes to the tea ceremonies held by Head-Captain Yamamoto and sits with others interested in the art of it. In the realm of art, Byakuya is not against drawing or sculpting. Though he's rarely seen doing them, he takes great pride in his artwork, even if it is way below par. His beautiful handwriting does not transfer to his artwork. However, Byakuya is still very fond of it and takes insult when someone does not see the beauty of it, especially his character that's become a sort of avatar for him, the Seaweed Ambassador. By far, Byakuya's favorite past time is talking walks, especially at night, to observe the sakura trees, the koi pond and especially the moon.
Personality Game Development (Optional): n/a
Abilities/Strengths: Equipment:
Every Shinigami is required to carry a Soul Phone. This phone isn't used like normal cell phones to simply chat. The purpose of it is for Shinigami on missions in the transient world to have contact with Soul Society at times, should they need back up, make a report, or to get further orders. The Soul Phone also has a GPS (global positioning system) that pinpoints exactly when and where a Hollow will appear to help them with their job. The phone also records information on the Hollows slain, as some Hollows have bounties, allowing them to gain something more for working harder.
A zanpakutou is the most important item a shinigami carries. They look like nothing more than normal swords and are usually carried at the shinigami's hip, however they are much more than that. A zanpakutou is a physical manifestation of their soul and unique to each shinigami. Each zanpakutou has its own name and spirit that are discovered by the shinigami in order to achieve the first release, shikai. The power, just as the name and spirit, are unique to the individual shinigami as well, unleashes in various forms, usually changing the size or shape of the sword. In order to gain captaincy (in most cases), like Byakuya, a shinigami must know bankai. Bankai is the second release of a zanpakutou that increases the users power five to ten times. Bankai can only be achieved when a Shinigami has been able to physically manifest their spirit into the real world and force them into submission.
Abilities:
In the Bleach universe, there are supernatural beings known as Shinigami (aka Soul Reapers) or Death Gods. These beings are invisible to any who aren't spiritually aware because they're made of spirit particles, rather than atoms and thusly, age much slower than humans and have a much greater endurance. Their job is to slay Hollows, spirits so filled with negative energy like regret, sorrow, or greed they lose themselves and devour Pluses, souls of the dearly departed that haven't yet passed over but are whole and benevolent. They send the Pluses onto Soul Society through a process known as 'konso'.
'Konso' is a technique every Shinigami is capable of using. In this ritual, a Shinigami takes the hilt of their sword and places it against a spirit's forehead and, usually, utters a reassuring word to those who are afraid or confused. This process sends the souls to Soul Society and allows the Shinigami to maintain a balance between the transient world and the Soul Society.
This process also happens when they slay a Hollow, though it's not the same ritual as with a plus and is called 'purifying' rather than 'konso'. When a zanpakutou kills a Hollow, the zanpakutou cleanses the Hollow of the sins it committed after becoming a Hollow. However, Hollows who were cruel and evil men when alive are not able to be cleansed and, when they are killed with a zanpakutou, instead of going to Soul Society, they are greeted by the Gates of Hell and sucked into the hellish world.
Byakuya is known for being one of the most proficient users of shunpo or 'flash steps'. A 'flash step' is a high speed movement used to move great distances with the fewest possible of steps. Those with untrained eyes (and even those with) have a very difficult time being able to see these movements. They seem so fast that it appears that they vanish from sight. Most shinigami can use this technique, but some, like Byakuya, have techniques to make shunpo a rather deadly practice.
Senka or 'Flash Blossom' is by far his favorite technique to use when he's looking to end a battle quickly. With Senka, Byakuya uses shunpo to move behind his opponent and deliver two thrusts with his sword, effectively destroying both the flow of spiritual power and the soul body. Of course, Senka is not perfect and strong, fast, perceptive or talented warriors have shown on numerous occasions to be able to block it.
Utsusemi, (Way of Onmitsu, 3rd of the Shihou), or 'Cicada', is a second technique he's been seen using. This technique is used to evade and confuse the enemy. It's so fast that it leaves behind a 'clone' that looks and bleeds (and judging by the confusion roused, it must feel real when pierced), as if it were really Byakuya. The clone disappears after distracting the opponent long enough, leaving only an article of clothing behind. Utsusemi can be very taxing and he's only been seen using it once per battle. The most important thing to remember that he only uses this in the most dire of circumstances because it was taught to him by Yoruichi Shihouin, a woman he bears a strong grudge against, spanning more then one hundred and ten years. Once an opponent catches on, it would be relatively easy to read the pattern.
Kidou or 'the demon arts' is a collection of spells that all shinigami learn how to use in the Shinigami Academy. Kidou spells are ranked from one to ninety-nine and are divided into two categories: hadou, or destructive spells and bakudou, spells that bind an opponent. Usually, an incantation is required to use them properly, but anyone good at kidou can forego the incantation and use them effectively. Byakuya has been shown to use high level spells, without the incantation and still pack quite the punch. He's most infamous for the use of Rikujou Kourou, a powerful bakudou spell that uses six rods of light to trap an opponent.
Byakuya, like all shinigami, has the use of a reishi platform. This platform is made by gathering and solidifying reishi beneath their feet. Reishi is usually invisible, except in places like the Garganta, where it's highly condensed, giving them the illusion that they are actually walking, running or standing in midair. Of course, this is like the ground. They can be knocked down.
Most importantly, is Byakuya's zanpakutou. The sword named 'Senbonzakura' or 'Thousand Cherry Blossoms', can be released with the release command 'Chire' or 'Scatter'. Senbonzakura glows pink for a short moment before its blade breaks apart into a thousand tiny blades too small to be seen. When they reflect the light, they glow pink and look like falling cherry blossoms. These blades are controlled by the hilt still in Byakuya's hand and can slip around many defenses. This of course depends on Byakuya's reaction time. Like all zanpakutou, their release can be stopped if the sword is bound or attacked with an equal force.
As a captain, Byakuya's zanpakutou has two releases. He's already mastered his bankai and it is also something he's rather proud of (and often tells an opponent how proud they should be to die by it). In order to release Senbonzakura Kageyoshi (Vibrant Display of a Thousand Cherry Blossoms), Byakuya holds the sealed form of Senbonzakura out in front of him, blade pointed down, and lets go. The sword phases through the ground, leaving behind energy ripples, and the area around both him and his opponent turns dark and ominous. From the ground raises a thousand gigantic blades in two rows. Senbonzakura Kageyoshi must be activated with a trigger phrase ('Scatter') and has four formations or 'Scenes'.
Chire
Scatter
Senbonzakura Kageyoshi's initial release. The thousand blades that rise from the ground scatter, a much larger version of Senbonzakura's shikai release. It's unknown how many blades there are, though Byakuya has speculated that there are 'tens of millions' and there are more than enough to provide both offense and defense at the same time. This stage of release is controlled solely by his mind, meaning they are only as fast as Byakuya himself can react. Should something move faster than he can predict, he can switch to using his hands, a more effective and faster method, tripling the speed at which Senbonzakura Kageyoshi can react.
For the purpose of forum play, he will not be able to use both at the same time, a post in between before he can switch between offense and defense of his bankai.
Senkei
Massacre Scene
Senkei is Senbonzakura Kageyoshi's true form and is announced by the name for the formation, followed by his bankai's name. In this form, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi surrounds both Byakuya and his foe in a dome-like structure, circled by four rows of numerous, pink-glowing swords that resemble Senbonzakura's sealed form and are vulnerable to his will.
While incredibly intimidating, the point of Senkei is to increase offensive power by focusing it into fewer blades to strike with. Compared with its initial bankai release, Senkei takes fewer strikes to debilitate an opponent and far less concentration to maintain. Even though he can mentally use these concentrated blades to attack an opponent, Byakuya takes a more honorable approach when using this formation by summoning a blade to his hand in a one-on-one fight.
As solid as they seem, Senkei's swords can also easily disperse back into Senbonzakura Kageyoshi's initial release, replaced and the dance begins again.
Gokei
Pivotal Scene
The Gokei formation is much like Kageyoshi's initial release. In order to activate, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi must be in its initial release and called by the name of the attack, followed by the name of his bankai.
While it is much like an attack Byakuya might use in his initial release, Gokei is fueled more by his emotions of anger and thus, far more dangerous than the 'Scatter' formation. The millions of petal-like blades swirl violently around the opponent, trapping them in a sphere. As it swirls, any methods of escape are blocked and no spot is blind from the torrent of blades as they collapse in on themselves and explode.
Though usually immune to the effects of his zanpakutou, even Byakuya has to shunpo from the area to avoid the resulting shockwave. It is possible to guard with a powerful barrier. However, since Byakuya is almost never consumed with the anger that usually takes to fuel this attack, he uses it very rarely.
Shukei
Shukei Hakuteiken
Final Scene, White Imperial Sword
Shukei is Senbonzakura Kageyoshi's final formation and is very different from all of its other scenes, both in its structure and the way it is summoned. In order to activate it, Byakuya calls it 'Shukei, Hakuteiken', completely obliterating the use of the bankai's name.
Shukei's power is immense, wiping out the defensive power of 'Scatter' and the intimidating procession of 'Senkei'. Byakuya represses all of Senbonzakura's blades into a single sword, drastically increasing the offensive power of the blade, ensuring that it is, indeed, the 'Final Scene' of the battle, as its name suggests. The surges of reiatsu that escape are white in color and wrap around from his hands, forming wings with a halo on his back, taking an appearance similar to that of a bird. While it's a pretty formation, it's for nothing but show as it is the sword that packs the real power.
Ichigo was able to counter Shukei, though barely, with his own surge of reiatsu and so, anything equal in power can withstand a blow from it. Like any last blow, all power is focused into the offensive power of the sword in his hands. Defense, kidou, shunpo... he has no use of any of these and must be careful when using it.
Byakuya's as versatile as his zanpakutou. He's a well-rounded fighter capable of offense, defense and speed, all in the same breath, and uses them quite effectively. Kidou spells are at his disposal and he's shown time and again that he can use high-level spells without the incantation and still deal quite a bit damage. His speed is among the top in Soul Society, rivaling Soi Fon and Shihouin Yoruichi, the Goddess of Flash. Coupled with his perception and his swordsmanship, there is usually very little reason for him to even unleash his zanpakutou.
The fact that Byakuya is steadfast in his resolve and never wavers makes him a deadly adversary. His perception forces opponents on the defense and his tactical mind can make quick work of any foe that's not on equal footing. He never wavers when he's made up his mind and will carry out his orders to the letter, never questioning them. His detachment makes it easy for him to work around situations against him, while his calm aura can psych opponents out. He makes level-headed decisions, taking the quickest, most effective route to a battle's end..
Weaknesses: Byakuya's strength is in his speed, his kidou spells and his zanpakutou. Byakuya himself has a rather thin frame and his physical strength is one of his weakest stats. Compared to more built enemies, he's able to hold his own, but he's not strong enough to repel; only defend.
Byakuya's real weaknesses lie, not in his power, but in his personality. His cold, detached personality, while good in situations where he must keep his wits about him, exists outside of battle as well and forces distances between him and others, even his own sister and those he works with or spends time with generally. He bottles everything up and refuses to let it show, though it does come out in spurts that very few ever see. His fierce loyalty to the laws and protocol almost took from him his sister Vice-Captain. The inner conflict between his loyalty to the law and his personal beliefs only further distances him from others. Needless to say, making friends is not one of his strong suits.
Senbonzakura does have one 'flaw'. Approximately 85cm around Byakuya is a 'No-Damage Range' where the petal blades do not go, so they can protect Byakuya from his own attacks. They don't enter unless instructed to by Byakuya himself, but, because of this, the risk to Byakuya's body and life greatly increase. The faster these blades move, the greater the risk. It is nearly impossible to dodge them safely.
Defining Quote(s): "I have already told you. You and I... our levels are as distant as the earth from the heavens. Must I spell it out for you? I have discarded my left arm, discarded my left leg. And yet even so... I have not nearly lowered myself to your level." -- Kuchiki Byakuya
"The only order received was to bring you back to Soul Society. I never received any order on what to do with you once I brought you back. Do whatever you like." -- Kuchiki Byakuya
"We should not shed tears
That is a surrender of the body to the heart
It is only proof
That we are beings that do not know
What to do with our hearts." -- Beginning of Bleach, Volume Seven/Listen to One Story -- Bleach Beat Collection Kuchiki Rukia and Kuchiki Byakuya
"Principle lodged in the eyes." -- Tite Kubo about Byakuya's character
Other: Nothing to note
Significant Logs/Threads: Refer to "Game History".
Action Writing Sample: community.livejournal.com/kannagara_net/170796.html
Third Person Writing Sample: community.livejournal.com/kannagara_rpg/94095.html
Name/Nickname: Taisa
Age: 24
Journal: sinful_lynx
AIM/MSN/IM:
AIM: xwickedxalbelx
MSN: xsinful_aspirationsx@hotmail.com
Plurk: minitaisa
Email: danceofthebutterfly@gmail.com
CHARACTER INFO
Character Name: Kuchiki Byakuya
Canon: Bleach
Point taken from canon: Manga, chapter 474
Previous Game: kannagara_net
Age: 242 (looks about 24)
Gender: Male
Preferred Village: Hisato
Appearance: Nobility starts with appearance. Whether working or sitting at home, Byakuya is never seen looking anything but his best and rarely ever seen out of his uniform, a sign of his pride in it.
Like all captains of the Gotei 13, Byakuya wears the standard shihakushou, no alterations and the captain's haori. Unlike the general uniform shared by all Shinigami, Captains have some liberty with their haori. Byakuya's particular haori bears the insignia of the sixth division, has no sleeves and a slit that runs up the middle back. The lining of his haori is a deep blue color.
Everything else he wears is another story entirely and boast his lineage. His kenseikan, the ornamental headpiece he is almost never seen without, is a sort of 'crown', representing his position as the head of the house of Kuchiki. It's often, and comically so, referred to as 'hair noodles' or 'tubes'. The Kenseikan looks like a two part device that he slips his hair through. There are three hollow structures that he put his bangs through atop his head, effectively keeping them from being directly in his face while a dual piece sits on the right side, against his temple. They are connected by a thin webbing at the back of head and held fast by looping under his hair in the middle.
Byakuya's windflower silk scarf is an heirloom, passed down the Kuchiki line to each head of the family, previously worn by Ginrei Kuchiki, his grandfather. The scarf is silver-white and, with the amount of blood that has touched its pristine surface, it seems to wash easily. It is said that the scarf alone is worth ten mansions within Seireitei, but he is rarely seen ever taking it off, even at home, symbolizing its worth lies more in what it represents, rather than the price it could fetch. The scarf is wrapped loosely around his neck, both tails falling over his shoulders enough to trail behind him. It's loose enough that he only has to flick his wrist to remove it, but secure enough that he can fight without being restricted.
The only other addition to his uniform are a pair of 'half-gloves' that appear to be out of a similar material, if not the same, as his scarf. They wrap snugly around his wrist and stop, continuing only across the back of his hand, and over his knuckles. There's a little crest in between his middle and ring finger knuckles, suggesting that it may be something else of his noble birth and more than just a fashion statement.
Byakuya has cold, black eyes that reflect nothing of what is truly going on in his head, no matter what it is he may be feeling. It is usually more his look than his words that command respect, strong and fierce, a way to boast his intimidation tactics without the size that others might have. His hair, also black, falls just past his shoulders and managed with the kenseikan. Without it, three prominent locks of hair fall into his face, making him look a bit softer than usual.
Canon Background: Byakuya's Wiki
Game Background: community.livejournal.com/kannagara_rpg/tag/kuchiki%20byakuya
community.livejournal.com/kannagara_net/tag/~kuchiki%20byakuya
Canon Personality: Born into nobility, Byakuya's personality reflects that of what one would expect of someone of his status--a cold, ruthless man who has no patience for idiocy, disrespect, or games. He holds great disdain for those who forget their place in society or attempt to trample all that he was raised to uphold and believe, particularly the laws of Soul Society.
While some of his fellow colleagues have little care for their titles, Byakuya hates nicknames and the use of his name informally. Even his own wife and sister referred to him with honorifics and respected his status among society as the head of one of four great noble families. While there are exceptions, very few regard Byakuya without some sort of title and those who don't earn his immediate dislike. So far, the only one he has ever allowed to get away with calling him by nicknames is the child Vice-Captain of the eleventh division, Yachiru.
He doesn't get along well with others due to his cold, always calm personality and rarely speaks unless he deems it necessary. There are times he comes off colder than he truly means, something that's been packed into his head ever since he was a boy. Everything is kept behind a strong mask of indifference, not even allowing his thoughts and feelings to be seen by his sister or those he holds in high regard, perhaps even considers friends. In truth, Byakuya is not really cold and heartless, but he must hold himself as a role model for all shinigami due to those titles, even when he doesn't agree and wishes to take measures to do what he feels is right. He denies that he has any emotion because when it comes between the law and his personal feelings, there is no contest--he must uphold the laws. This leaves him very much conflicted.
Even with those conflicting emotions, when he sets to complete his duty, he comes off almost robotic. He places sole trust in the laws that he was raised to believe were flawless and when he raises his sword, it's to preserve the peace that a lawful world has, a peace he treasures deeply. He will believe in no other truth.
In battle, he seems arrogant, stating that his opponent has no chance of winning or that they are arrogant for comparing themselves to him. He talks slightly more in battle and as it wears on, it usually comes out more and more the more he feels his pride is trampled on. These statements seem terribly arrogant, but Byakuya is a perceptive fighter. He doesn't speak unless he is sure of himself and whatever he says is almost always the outcome.
Byakuya, however, does care for those he trusts and respects, though the number may be few. When he comes to terms with the fact that the law is not perfect, he takes into consideration all points of view. He is rather protective of his sister and anyone who should dare raise a blade to her will face the quiet fury that seethes within, a force that even he cannot withstand.
His respect is difficult to earn, and he doesn't even seem sure how one can attain it. For those he shows great dislike to, he will refer to them as 'brat', 'boy' or, in the case of Yoruichi, 'that woman'. For those he has little care for, or those who have yet to earn his respect, he calls them by both their first and last name. Very few are ever called with their appropriate title or first name alone. The only ones he's been shown to refer to with some familiarity are his sister, Rukia, his Vice-Captain, Renji and his late wife, Hisana.
The noble Captain Kuchiki does have another side, though not what one would expect when thinking of a stoic man, cold to even his own family ties. Byakuya has been shown, on occasion, to have a sense of humor. To those listening, it may not seem like much--his jokes are unfunny, strange or hard to grasp because he gives no indication that he is, in fact, joking--but he kids around nonetheless.
There are times when Byakuya does let down that mask by displaying interest in hobbies. Most of the activities he partakes in are ones he can do by himself, but as the chairman and possibly president of the Calligraphy Society, he tends to invite people to his manor to share in club activities, even providing snacks to those who attend. He also goes to the tea ceremonies held by Head-Captain Yamamoto and sits with others interested in the art of it. In the realm of art, Byakuya is not against drawing or sculpting. Though he's rarely seen doing them, he takes great pride in his artwork, even if it is way below par. His beautiful handwriting does not transfer to his artwork. However, Byakuya is still very fond of it and takes insult when someone does not see the beauty of it, especially his character that's become a sort of avatar for him, the Seaweed Ambassador. By far, Byakuya's favorite past time is talking walks, especially at night, to observe the sakura trees, the koi pond and especially the moon.
Personality Game Development (Optional): n/a
Abilities/Strengths: Equipment:
Every Shinigami is required to carry a Soul Phone. This phone isn't used like normal cell phones to simply chat. The purpose of it is for Shinigami on missions in the transient world to have contact with Soul Society at times, should they need back up, make a report, or to get further orders. The Soul Phone also has a GPS (global positioning system) that pinpoints exactly when and where a Hollow will appear to help them with their job. The phone also records information on the Hollows slain, as some Hollows have bounties, allowing them to gain something more for working harder.
A zanpakutou is the most important item a shinigami carries. They look like nothing more than normal swords and are usually carried at the shinigami's hip, however they are much more than that. A zanpakutou is a physical manifestation of their soul and unique to each shinigami. Each zanpakutou has its own name and spirit that are discovered by the shinigami in order to achieve the first release, shikai. The power, just as the name and spirit, are unique to the individual shinigami as well, unleashes in various forms, usually changing the size or shape of the sword. In order to gain captaincy (in most cases), like Byakuya, a shinigami must know bankai. Bankai is the second release of a zanpakutou that increases the users power five to ten times. Bankai can only be achieved when a Shinigami has been able to physically manifest their spirit into the real world and force them into submission.
Abilities:
In the Bleach universe, there are supernatural beings known as Shinigami (aka Soul Reapers) or Death Gods. These beings are invisible to any who aren't spiritually aware because they're made of spirit particles, rather than atoms and thusly, age much slower than humans and have a much greater endurance. Their job is to slay Hollows, spirits so filled with negative energy like regret, sorrow, or greed they lose themselves and devour Pluses, souls of the dearly departed that haven't yet passed over but are whole and benevolent. They send the Pluses onto Soul Society through a process known as 'konso'.
'Konso' is a technique every Shinigami is capable of using. In this ritual, a Shinigami takes the hilt of their sword and places it against a spirit's forehead and, usually, utters a reassuring word to those who are afraid or confused. This process sends the souls to Soul Society and allows the Shinigami to maintain a balance between the transient world and the Soul Society.
This process also happens when they slay a Hollow, though it's not the same ritual as with a plus and is called 'purifying' rather than 'konso'. When a zanpakutou kills a Hollow, the zanpakutou cleanses the Hollow of the sins it committed after becoming a Hollow. However, Hollows who were cruel and evil men when alive are not able to be cleansed and, when they are killed with a zanpakutou, instead of going to Soul Society, they are greeted by the Gates of Hell and sucked into the hellish world.
Byakuya is known for being one of the most proficient users of shunpo or 'flash steps'. A 'flash step' is a high speed movement used to move great distances with the fewest possible of steps. Those with untrained eyes (and even those with) have a very difficult time being able to see these movements. They seem so fast that it appears that they vanish from sight. Most shinigami can use this technique, but some, like Byakuya, have techniques to make shunpo a rather deadly practice.
Senka or 'Flash Blossom' is by far his favorite technique to use when he's looking to end a battle quickly. With Senka, Byakuya uses shunpo to move behind his opponent and deliver two thrusts with his sword, effectively destroying both the flow of spiritual power and the soul body. Of course, Senka is not perfect and strong, fast, perceptive or talented warriors have shown on numerous occasions to be able to block it.
Utsusemi, (Way of Onmitsu, 3rd of the Shihou), or 'Cicada', is a second technique he's been seen using. This technique is used to evade and confuse the enemy. It's so fast that it leaves behind a 'clone' that looks and bleeds (and judging by the confusion roused, it must feel real when pierced), as if it were really Byakuya. The clone disappears after distracting the opponent long enough, leaving only an article of clothing behind. Utsusemi can be very taxing and he's only been seen using it once per battle. The most important thing to remember that he only uses this in the most dire of circumstances because it was taught to him by Yoruichi Shihouin, a woman he bears a strong grudge against, spanning more then one hundred and ten years. Once an opponent catches on, it would be relatively easy to read the pattern.
Kidou or 'the demon arts' is a collection of spells that all shinigami learn how to use in the Shinigami Academy. Kidou spells are ranked from one to ninety-nine and are divided into two categories: hadou, or destructive spells and bakudou, spells that bind an opponent. Usually, an incantation is required to use them properly, but anyone good at kidou can forego the incantation and use them effectively. Byakuya has been shown to use high level spells, without the incantation and still pack quite the punch. He's most infamous for the use of Rikujou Kourou, a powerful bakudou spell that uses six rods of light to trap an opponent.
Byakuya, like all shinigami, has the use of a reishi platform. This platform is made by gathering and solidifying reishi beneath their feet. Reishi is usually invisible, except in places like the Garganta, where it's highly condensed, giving them the illusion that they are actually walking, running or standing in midair. Of course, this is like the ground. They can be knocked down.
Most importantly, is Byakuya's zanpakutou. The sword named 'Senbonzakura' or 'Thousand Cherry Blossoms', can be released with the release command 'Chire' or 'Scatter'. Senbonzakura glows pink for a short moment before its blade breaks apart into a thousand tiny blades too small to be seen. When they reflect the light, they glow pink and look like falling cherry blossoms. These blades are controlled by the hilt still in Byakuya's hand and can slip around many defenses. This of course depends on Byakuya's reaction time. Like all zanpakutou, their release can be stopped if the sword is bound or attacked with an equal force.
As a captain, Byakuya's zanpakutou has two releases. He's already mastered his bankai and it is also something he's rather proud of (and often tells an opponent how proud they should be to die by it). In order to release Senbonzakura Kageyoshi (Vibrant Display of a Thousand Cherry Blossoms), Byakuya holds the sealed form of Senbonzakura out in front of him, blade pointed down, and lets go. The sword phases through the ground, leaving behind energy ripples, and the area around both him and his opponent turns dark and ominous. From the ground raises a thousand gigantic blades in two rows. Senbonzakura Kageyoshi must be activated with a trigger phrase ('Scatter') and has four formations or 'Scenes'.
Chire
Scatter
Senbonzakura Kageyoshi's initial release. The thousand blades that rise from the ground scatter, a much larger version of Senbonzakura's shikai release. It's unknown how many blades there are, though Byakuya has speculated that there are 'tens of millions' and there are more than enough to provide both offense and defense at the same time. This stage of release is controlled solely by his mind, meaning they are only as fast as Byakuya himself can react. Should something move faster than he can predict, he can switch to using his hands, a more effective and faster method, tripling the speed at which Senbonzakura Kageyoshi can react.
For the purpose of forum play, he will not be able to use both at the same time, a post in between before he can switch between offense and defense of his bankai.
Senkei
Massacre Scene
Senkei is Senbonzakura Kageyoshi's true form and is announced by the name for the formation, followed by his bankai's name. In this form, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi surrounds both Byakuya and his foe in a dome-like structure, circled by four rows of numerous, pink-glowing swords that resemble Senbonzakura's sealed form and are vulnerable to his will.
While incredibly intimidating, the point of Senkei is to increase offensive power by focusing it into fewer blades to strike with. Compared with its initial bankai release, Senkei takes fewer strikes to debilitate an opponent and far less concentration to maintain. Even though he can mentally use these concentrated blades to attack an opponent, Byakuya takes a more honorable approach when using this formation by summoning a blade to his hand in a one-on-one fight.
As solid as they seem, Senkei's swords can also easily disperse back into Senbonzakura Kageyoshi's initial release, replaced and the dance begins again.
Gokei
Pivotal Scene
The Gokei formation is much like Kageyoshi's initial release. In order to activate, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi must be in its initial release and called by the name of the attack, followed by the name of his bankai.
While it is much like an attack Byakuya might use in his initial release, Gokei is fueled more by his emotions of anger and thus, far more dangerous than the 'Scatter' formation. The millions of petal-like blades swirl violently around the opponent, trapping them in a sphere. As it swirls, any methods of escape are blocked and no spot is blind from the torrent of blades as they collapse in on themselves and explode.
Though usually immune to the effects of his zanpakutou, even Byakuya has to shunpo from the area to avoid the resulting shockwave. It is possible to guard with a powerful barrier. However, since Byakuya is almost never consumed with the anger that usually takes to fuel this attack, he uses it very rarely.
Shukei
Shukei Hakuteiken
Final Scene, White Imperial Sword
Shukei is Senbonzakura Kageyoshi's final formation and is very different from all of its other scenes, both in its structure and the way it is summoned. In order to activate it, Byakuya calls it 'Shukei, Hakuteiken', completely obliterating the use of the bankai's name.
Shukei's power is immense, wiping out the defensive power of 'Scatter' and the intimidating procession of 'Senkei'. Byakuya represses all of Senbonzakura's blades into a single sword, drastically increasing the offensive power of the blade, ensuring that it is, indeed, the 'Final Scene' of the battle, as its name suggests. The surges of reiatsu that escape are white in color and wrap around from his hands, forming wings with a halo on his back, taking an appearance similar to that of a bird. While it's a pretty formation, it's for nothing but show as it is the sword that packs the real power.
Ichigo was able to counter Shukei, though barely, with his own surge of reiatsu and so, anything equal in power can withstand a blow from it. Like any last blow, all power is focused into the offensive power of the sword in his hands. Defense, kidou, shunpo... he has no use of any of these and must be careful when using it.
Byakuya's as versatile as his zanpakutou. He's a well-rounded fighter capable of offense, defense and speed, all in the same breath, and uses them quite effectively. Kidou spells are at his disposal and he's shown time and again that he can use high-level spells without the incantation and still deal quite a bit damage. His speed is among the top in Soul Society, rivaling Soi Fon and Shihouin Yoruichi, the Goddess of Flash. Coupled with his perception and his swordsmanship, there is usually very little reason for him to even unleash his zanpakutou.
The fact that Byakuya is steadfast in his resolve and never wavers makes him a deadly adversary. His perception forces opponents on the defense and his tactical mind can make quick work of any foe that's not on equal footing. He never wavers when he's made up his mind and will carry out his orders to the letter, never questioning them. His detachment makes it easy for him to work around situations against him, while his calm aura can psych opponents out. He makes level-headed decisions, taking the quickest, most effective route to a battle's end..
Weaknesses: Byakuya's strength is in his speed, his kidou spells and his zanpakutou. Byakuya himself has a rather thin frame and his physical strength is one of his weakest stats. Compared to more built enemies, he's able to hold his own, but he's not strong enough to repel; only defend.
Byakuya's real weaknesses lie, not in his power, but in his personality. His cold, detached personality, while good in situations where he must keep his wits about him, exists outside of battle as well and forces distances between him and others, even his own sister and those he works with or spends time with generally. He bottles everything up and refuses to let it show, though it does come out in spurts that very few ever see. His fierce loyalty to the laws and protocol almost took from him his sister Vice-Captain. The inner conflict between his loyalty to the law and his personal beliefs only further distances him from others. Needless to say, making friends is not one of his strong suits.
Senbonzakura does have one 'flaw'. Approximately 85cm around Byakuya is a 'No-Damage Range' where the petal blades do not go, so they can protect Byakuya from his own attacks. They don't enter unless instructed to by Byakuya himself, but, because of this, the risk to Byakuya's body and life greatly increase. The faster these blades move, the greater the risk. It is nearly impossible to dodge them safely.
Defining Quote(s): "I have already told you. You and I... our levels are as distant as the earth from the heavens. Must I spell it out for you? I have discarded my left arm, discarded my left leg. And yet even so... I have not nearly lowered myself to your level." -- Kuchiki Byakuya
"The only order received was to bring you back to Soul Society. I never received any order on what to do with you once I brought you back. Do whatever you like." -- Kuchiki Byakuya
"We should not shed tears
That is a surrender of the body to the heart
It is only proof
That we are beings that do not know
What to do with our hearts." -- Beginning of Bleach, Volume Seven/Listen to One Story -- Bleach Beat Collection Kuchiki Rukia and Kuchiki Byakuya
"Principle lodged in the eyes." -- Tite Kubo about Byakuya's character
Other: Nothing to note
Significant Logs/Threads: Refer to "Game History".
Action Writing Sample: community.livejournal.com/kannagara_net/170796.html
Third Person Writing Sample: community.livejournal.com/kannagara_rpg/94095.html