Post by Taishita Kaen on May 19, 2008 1:43:49 GMT
Name: Tainutsa Kaen
Age: 467
Height: 5'8''
Weight: 145 lbs.
Division: 9th Division
[(Rank:) Captain
Appearance:
Tainutsa Kaen stands about 5'8'' and weighs around 145 lbs. He is well-built, his muscles and physique showing that he has trained hard and is a capable fighter, but it isn't one so excessive that the muscles are just so much to make one puke. He has short white hair, that flows down over his head in large spikes, with two standing up pushing up into the air. His dark green eyes gaze out at the world with a serious outtake on life, full of the responsibilities and worries that come with his ascension to taichou of the Ninth Division in the Thirteen Squads.
He wears the normal Shinigami clothes that are assigned to all those in the Thirteen Squads of the Gotei 13, a dark hakama and Gi, with a white underclothes, white socks and black sandals. As a sign of his rank of captain, he wears the white haori over his clothes, one with long sleeves as part of his personal taste. He has the mark of his division inside the rhombus representing the Gotei 13 on the back of his haori. He wears his scabbard, surprisingly, on his back, his sword poking out over his left shoulder. To distinguish himself from the many other Shinigami, he wears a dark sleeve of black leather that goes from his elbow to his wrist. He also has a small cloak that he wears, a white one that ends with a series of free-flowing stripes that flow about in the wind. He has a long scar that winds is way across the side of his neck down across his chest, and he wears a single ring on his right ring finger. When summoning reiatsu, his aura shows itself as black in color, washing over him gently like a wave of shadow.
Personality:
Kaen has changed a lot during his time in Soul Society. The trials and tribulations he has gone through the centuries have shaped him into the being he is today. A quiet individual, Kaen prefers to watch and listen when other people talk, as he has lost his urge to chat long ago. He only really talks outside of formal reasons with close friends, some of the fellow captains, and the Ninth Division. Being a captain is a rank of honor and respect, but it also comes with staggering responsibilities that has taken him some time to get used to. He has taken his heavy duties seriously, which has given him a very serious tone and way of acting in recent years. The light joking of before has evolved in a quiet sense of responsibility and pride. He is proud of what he has done, and of the fact he was chosen by Sakata-sama for this position, and he will not see his position tainted by anything. That and with the coming assault of the Arrancar and the Vizard, he had had plenty on his mind. He is, however, very loyal to his division and Soul Society.
He would gladly give his life to defend the ideals and values that he has seen within the other divisions and Seireitei, and he takes their duty of guarding spirits very seriously. In battle, he is very serious and will not play around in battle. He has seen many a friend die due to such actions, and refuses to fall prey to such things. Kaen is still a kind individual outside of battle, and he is always eager to help out of his fellow captains, barring that he isn't already busy.
History:
Tainutsa Kaen was born in Kyoto, Japan, during the Meji Revolution, whereupon the Emperor restored peace and learning in Japan. He was born to parents who loved him dearly, and lived well. They were nothing like the nobles in the money department, but they did not have to worry about going into povertry. Peace reigned and prosperity was on the wind. Kaen grew up quickly, being taught the proper manners of his culture. He was taught basic reading, writing, and other important skills before being sent off to a school to extend his learning. He intended to go into law, perhaps become a judge and help further justice in his time. That was all a bright future for him, which his parents supported.
Then....the First Sino-Japanese War of 1893, where Japan and China fought over land as the Meji government moved to increase its sphere of influence and its power. With Japan having become an industrialized nation, and a world power, it felt it needed to expand. During the Sino-Japanese War, Kaen was one of the many students who were swept up by the military and sent into battle against the Chinese. The battles, although many times one-sided in favor of the Japanese, were fierce as the Chinese fought hard and long for their land. They would not be so easily removed from their land, despite the technology gap, and during one of their many battles, a stray shot slammed into Kaen's helmet and killed him. Just a few days before, his father, who had been drafted, had died and he had taken his ring to remember him by. Now he was the next one claimed by death's cold hand.
However, that was not the end of life, as he had thought. Due to his violent death, and his attachment to his fellow soldiers, he was tied down to the battlefield, always looking for his fellow soldiers. When the Shinigami came for him, and saw his predicament, they were able to show him that his fellows had survived, won the war, and had died natural deaths. At peace, he allowed himself to be taken and sent to Soul Society. Suddenly finding himself in a massive city, he wandered around for days, until he found a family who took him in. He quickly learned he was in Rukongai, and that he was going to live for a long time, and only needed to drink to survive. And that they were protected by the Shinigami, who came from Seireitei, and they were the ones who fought the Hollows and protected the Pluses, which is what they were.
It didn't take long for him to realize something was wrong, as he began to get hungry, something they hadn't told him about. Unknown to him, he had somehow gotten the lucky tarot card and had quite the reiatsu, for his untrained level. A representative from the Academy came and offered him a chance to become Shinigami. With thoughts of his time in the military, and knowing what the Shinigami did, he accepted.
The Academy was much of the same he had encountered in the schools he had been in before the war, and he did well in his studies. His prior training with firearms and swords gave him an edge in the close combat and swordmanship areas of the Academy. He graduated with great grades and a strong record in fighting. He was sent to join the 9th division, after the Academy, his reiatsu was strong.
And, as such, he has spent the next decades doing his duty as a Shinigami. He fought countless Hollows, helped many Pluses reach Soul Society and fought under the careful watch of the Fuku-taichou and Taichou of the Ninth Division. He continued training as much as possible, increasing his skills and he eventually managed to master Shikai. It was quite a process for him, as Aneishu was a very withdrawn and reluctant spirit, not wanting to give his power to Kaen until he had matured enough as a Shinigami and would be able to handle it. It came during a time when he was surrounded by Hollows, and he was heavily injured. He had been 6thd seat at the time, and quite strong, but even he could be overwhelmed by enough Hollows. And there were plenty to be had in this area; several squads had been deployed but had been in danger of being overwhelmed. Several stronger officers, including himself, had been sent to hold the line to give the 4th division time to evacuate the wounded. They were each beset by many Hollow and the battle turned fierce. The evacuation was having trouble getting finished, and the Hollows were pressing hard.
Kaen had been fighting with another seated officer from the 6th division when a large group of Hollows made a push and the vicious fighting soon saw himself stranded from the Shinigami he had been fighting with. In a short manner of time, he was overwhelmed and received serious wounds from their attacks and cero's. He was about to contemplate defeat, as his back lay against a tree, and he had not enough energy to lift his sword when the world seemed to freeze and a figure in black armor and cape appeared before him.
”Do you wish for it to end this way, Kaen? Do you want to lose?”
Kaen's answer was simple; he had too much to live for. The spirit inside his Zanpakutou combined his power with Kaen's, while telling him his name and to unleash their power. The resulting blast of reiatsu obliterated the Hollows about to feast on him, and sent a wave of dust and wind out. The result, as the dust died down, was revitalized Kaen. Wielding a new sword, emblazoned with strange characters on its longer and thicker blade. It took him little time to wipe out the Hollows around him. More kept coming, however, but the timely arrival of his divisions taichou ensured they were destroyed.
He spent the next centuries dedicating himself to becoming stronger, learning more about Aneishu, and rising through the ranks of the division. Soon enough, he had become 3rd seat and was quite powerful for his division. He respected the Fuku-taichiu and Taichou very much, and worked well with them. Often, when the paperwork load was too much, he would take on some of the burden to alleviate that. His strength still kept growing, although in small, minuscule increments, and it frustrated Kaen. Aneishu, when asked for aid, would only say that he was not yet strong enough to handle the secrets Aneishu still held. This frustrated him in his quest to be stronger, to make his division proud of him and worthy of their trust. He also, like many Shinigami, wanted to achieve the fame and eternal memory achieved when you attained Bankai. Like many, he struggled to achieve such a thing. But now....it appeared he was nearing his limit....and it angered him.
The years passed; he trained, worked, and lived in the Ninth Division, constantly seeking to push himself. However, he could not seem to go any farther. On a mission, he struggled to fight a Menos, and had to be saved by his taichou, and he was growing even angrier with himself. He wanted to achieve his dream! He wanted to achieve Bankai!
”How far would you go for that dream, Kaen? Would you still die for it, as you promised him many centuries ago?”?
Kaen paused, as he was swept into the castle world of Aneishu, who was gazing at him intently through his mask. He stood there, awaiting his response. Kaen could not speak, but managed to nod. Aneishu then closed his eyes.
”Very well. Then, I shall give you the final secret I have been withholding all this time. Are you prepared? You may not survive the trials I have for you.”
Kaen smirked. “Do you even need to ask me that after all this time?” Aneishu only chuckled. He had a point. Waving for him, he took him to the innermost sanctum of the castle, a training room underground where he proceeded to test Kaen to his very limits, with the trial of being able to manipulate the shadows around him. This was something he didn't have any idea on how to do, and he had to fight Aneishu at the same time.
The trial was harsh, brutal, and he nearly died several times. But in the end, with his own drive to see it live succeeded in spurring him to complete the trial. Aneishu, recognizing his strength, submitted to him. He had finally done, he had achieved Bankai
He tried to keep it quiet, though, since he wasn't sure himself how he was going to take it, but word spread quickly and reached the halls of the divisions. Soon enough, he was called into Yamamoto's office. No explanation was given, he was just called. Frightened, awed, and curious, he set out his best set of clothes and entered the inner sanctum of the Captain-Commander. The wise but powerful old man spoke to him about his actions, how he had been a good member of the Ninth Division and had helped the previous taichou before he had died of old age. He said, however, that he was most surprised that he had achieved Bankai and not mentioned it to anyone yet. He had been called here as to why. Kaen was very reluctant to say, but he knew that he could not tell the Captain-Commander. He told, very plainly and simply, that he had wanted to improve his skills with Bankai and try to master it before he mentioned it. That, and he knew he'd probably be a captain and that he was unsure of how he felt about that.
The old man was quiet for several moments, and then got out of his chair, and looked out the window behind his desk. He then spoke, telling Kaen that he was not surprised, that he had thought those were the reasons. However, he said that Soul Society needed leaders, captains to lead the divisions, and rally the division together. He was offering him captainship, but not just for any division. So, he was asking him to take the mantle of the Ninth Division taichou. His actions over the years showed that he had the talent for it, and he already was eligible by Bankai, and that the other captains had agreed with him. Shocked and elated at the same time beyond his wild dreams, he numbly accepted it.
Soon after, his initiation ceremony was announced, and he was quickly ushered in as the new taichou of Ninth Division. Many were shocked, especially close friends who had known him for a long time. Kaen, however, had some things to do. As soon as he was given the taichou uniform, as well as the position, he immediately assembled the division and laid out the ground rules. He was not intending to replace the previous taichou in their memories, nor did he expect automatic respect. He was here to do his best to lead them, and aid Soul Society, to do his duty. He only asked that they give him the chance to do so. Surprising him, they accepted him eagerly, as for many it was not overly different serving him than when he was 3rd seat.
And since that point, he has fought hard for Soul Society and his division, doing the best he could to help. Now, with the threat of the Arrancar and the Vizard arising, and the real world in danger, he realized he would be thrust once again into battle....and that Soul Society may be in greater danger than it ever had.....
Abilities:
Kaen is a superb swordsman and his abilities revolve around that. He is an excellent user of Shunpo, as it is key to his fighting style and his skill in zanjustu. His skill with hakada or (hand to hand combat) and zanjutsu (sword techniques) is well-known from his time in the Academy on. Kidou is not his strong point and he only knows a couple spells that he uses to aid him in his battles.
Zanpakutoh/Bow/Doll:
Sealed Form: Aneishu, in its sealed state, does not look much different than the other swords that belong to the other Shinigami of Seireitei. The blade is well-kept and looks almost brand new, thanks to the constant maintenance that Kaen bestows upon the blade. It's blade, a light gray color, shines in the sunlight and the sharp edge is shown in the way light glints off of it in facets. However, one can swear that when they look in the blade, they can see shadows stirring, and obscuring the light around it. Those who look hard enough or are experienced enough to see such things, they can see a light aura of black reiatsu glowing around the blade, a hint of what is to come with Aneishu.
The hilt is really the only part that distinguishes the sword from the other Zanpakotou's is the hilt. The hilt has no design, no special markings. It is a simple...black, a void in which no color can escape. The pommel of the hilt is capped by gold, rectangular cloth, and a gold string descends from the hilt. The guard around the top of the hilt it also black in nature. It reveals a hint of what is to come with the blade, the Lord of Shadows.
Shikai
Shikai Release Phrase: ”Kusari maro yorisono kumori, Aneishu!” (Unchain yourself from the shadows, Lord of Shadows!)
Shikai Appearance: With the command for the shikai released form is said, the sword drastically changes. The blade takes on a completely black form, with silver lines running down it, with the hilt becoming much slimmer. The blade in itself becomes twice as thick and twice as long, making it an insane looking weapon, and would be unwieldy if not for the fact that the sword is part of Kaen's soul and weighs nothing to him. It also has a series of black characters, the one from Aneishu's mask, running down the blade, which shift and twist as Kaen's reiatsu expands or shrinks. The hilt slims down to where this is no guard, and the hilt itself is a small sliver of black and silver, half of it silver and half of it black. The gold thread coming off the pommel still exists, but the rest of the blade dramatically changes. The blade, again, constantly has an small aura of blackness which surrounds it, hinting at the special power the blade offers.
Shikai Abilities:
”Aneisochi!” or “Shadow Step.”
Aneisochi is the only ability that Kaen's shikai gives him, but a powerful and useful technique for that reason. Aneisochi, or “Shadow Step” has two parts. One, it causes his shadow to slightly bulge out, as if to accommodate for his entire body, making it seem he was standing on a shadowy disk. The second part, is that he can choose, at will, to sink into any shadow he is standing on, touching, etc, and he can reappear in any shadow in the immediate area, up to fifty feet. This includes his own shadow, his opponents shadow, etc. The beginning of the technique requires that he enter a shadow that can accommodate his body, hence the extending of his own shadow, but he can exit any shadow he chooses , except for the tiniest of dots. He could easily come from the shade of a small tree and strike at an opponent. This is designed to increase his skill in close combat and swordmanship, two things he excels at, and allow him to get close to his enemy and further allow him to use what he is good at against his opponent.
”Bikou Sutoraiki!” or “Shadow Strike”
Bikou Sutoraiki is the only real offensive attack that Kaen's shikai form gives him, as Shadow Step is more of a support ability than anything else. If not for this, he would still have to rely on his own personal skills in battle. This ability is very simple, but powerful. It works by Kaen moving his sword to a point where he can swing down to gain momentum, be it up into the air, or behind him. Then, he twists the sword slightly, which those who have fought him before would know that the attack has begun. Then, shadows from all around, even his and his own opponent's should he be close enough, will gather around the sword, combining with the aura present around it to form a “shadow blade” of sorts. However, that is misleading. It is merely a gathering point for the shadows; Kaen then combines that shadow with his reiatsu until it is ready, and then he unleashes it by slashing down, yelling the name. The reiatsu-enhanced shadows then blast towards the enemy in a straight, immense wave. It can't be directed, but it causes immense damage to whatever it hits, barring something stronger than Kaen or something that negates it. He can also strengthen the attack by giving more shadow than he normally uses, or fire it off quicker if he uses less.
Bankai
”Anei Tenshu!” or “Shadow God”.
Bankai Appearance: Unlike many of the other Bankai's, Kaen's sword retains the size it had in its shikai form, albeit a bit smaller. It is, however, vastly changed over before. The aura around the sword has increased to the point that it is visible to anyone who isn't blind, and it courses around it like lightning. The blade no longer has any black characters on it, or much of anything, as it has become a blade of shining white light. This is kind of an ironic turn, when one realizes that Anei Tenshu's, or “Shadow God's” blade is a beacon of light. Those who have fought with him, or have incredibly analytical minds, will realize that this is to vastly increase the element that he works with: shadow. The light is bright, but not overly so, and it is never shifting, never changing. It is always a single steady stream of light. The hilt and guard, however, are not light, but solid objects. The hilt is black and is a thin but strong metal, with a unknown crest at the pommel. The hilt is black, and ends with spikes going outward, while on the first few inches of the blade, there is a small line with spikes coming off of it.
Bankai Abilities: Anei Tenshu has an immediate ability when it comes out. It does not have a name, but it causes the blade to become a bright white light in the form of a blade, which still functions as a sword. The light is bright, but it is not hurtful to the eyes. However, it allows for an immense amount of shadow to be contrasted about the area, even lengthening an opponents shadow, giving Kaen greater access in attacking them. However, this comes at the price of not having a shadow, or a shadow in a three feet radius. Instead of just melting into the shadows at his feet, he has to go beyond that. He is able to enter shadows beyond that because his reiatsu blocks the shadow-obliterating light from going any further. This gives him an incredible amount of shadow to work with his Aneisochi and his Bikou Sutoraiki abilities, which are enhanced by the Bankai.
Anesochi is enhanced to where his speed is increase, and he now jump from almost any shadow with the speed greater than that of Shunpo, which is boosted by his Bankai as is natural in that state. The Shadow Strike technique is now boosted to the point were it now takes little time and effort to use, and with the Bankai causing so much shadow, it has plenty to work with. He only needs to twist the blade a bit, summon the shadow, and the attack is ready.
However, the Bankai does have a third ability, unique to its release. It is Anei Soujuu, or “Shadow Manipulation.” With the large amount of shadows about, and the Bankai released, Kaen can use this single, but very powerful ability. The ability allows him to form the shadow to do several things: block attacks/shield himself, where he can cause a bunch of shadow to form up around him, or in the shape of anything he chooses, to block attacks. It can be overtaken, as the strength of the shield depends on how much shadow and reiatsu he puts it into. He can also absorb attacks, by pulling enough shadow in front of him, and the attack coming for him, such as a Kidou, would go into the shadow and began negated in that absence of light. Again, it can be overwhelmed and depends on how much Kaen puts into it. Finally, he can take up shadow, mix it with his reiatsu, and then fire it off in beams and waves for easy, quick attacks on an opponent.
RP Sample:
Kaen sat in his chair, carefully writing out the report he needed to bring to the Vice Captain tomorrow considering he had led the squad that had been assigned to holding off the Hollows while the other group helped to evacuate a group of Pluses away from the scene, to where they could do the Soul Ritual in safety. Rubbing his eyes tiredly, he set down his quill and gazed out the window at the stars. He saw all the way to the spot of the Soukyoku, where not so long ago Kuchiki Rukia was to be have been executed there. Kaen sighed; that thing had been a mess from the start, and they hadn't even known it until it had been brutally revealed to them by Isane. Aizen had manipulated them all as perfect as a master puppeteer, and they had been none the wiser. There were dark days coming ahead.
However, a smile came to his face. Indeed, Kurosaki Ichigo had done the impossible and shattered Soul Society into making change. Cold, limp, struggling Seireitei reorganized and became much more streamlined, much more efficient. They were weakened, no doubt about that, but they could get things done in a much better fashion. With the threat of Aizen and the Hougyoku that he had managed to gain through all his efforts here in Soul Society. Although they had been greatly hurt by what had happened, they were now able to make the changes needed to revitalize this place.
”Not to mention I got to be alive when Shihouin Yoruichi and Kisuke Urahara came back into the limelight.”
Yes, it was indeed a good day to be alive and in Seireitei. He returned to the report, continuing his paperwork. The mission had gone without a hitch, and they had trounced the Hollows who had tried to attack them. They had been momentarily forced back due to numbers, but they had cut down enough to reverse the situation and pushed back again. They had, in fact, to be told to pull back, that the mission was completed. The other group, though they blustered, understood why. Every Shinigami tried to defeat as many Hollows as possible, to try and lower their numbers, to try and purify that many more people. Especially with Aizen in Hueco Mundo, with an almost infinite army of Hollows at his command. He had shown before that he could experiment with them and give them abilities similar to those of the Shinigami, such as hiding their reiatsu. No, unhindered, and able to do more with the Hougyoku, it was a threat indeed. He gazed down at the sign of the division. The sign Tousen-sama had once worn.....
”Why did you leave, Tousen-sama....?”
Shaking away the memories, he settled down once more to finish his report. After all, he'd rather not be chewed out again and chased by Renji-san. Smiling at the thought, he moved the quill across the page with more energy, seeing to its completion.
OOC: The name is not Taisnuta Kaen or whatever it is, but the word blocker you have is changing it.
Age: 467
Height: 5'8''
Weight: 145 lbs.
Division: 9th Division
[(Rank:) Captain
Appearance:
Tainutsa Kaen stands about 5'8'' and weighs around 145 lbs. He is well-built, his muscles and physique showing that he has trained hard and is a capable fighter, but it isn't one so excessive that the muscles are just so much to make one puke. He has short white hair, that flows down over his head in large spikes, with two standing up pushing up into the air. His dark green eyes gaze out at the world with a serious outtake on life, full of the responsibilities and worries that come with his ascension to taichou of the Ninth Division in the Thirteen Squads.
He wears the normal Shinigami clothes that are assigned to all those in the Thirteen Squads of the Gotei 13, a dark hakama and Gi, with a white underclothes, white socks and black sandals. As a sign of his rank of captain, he wears the white haori over his clothes, one with long sleeves as part of his personal taste. He has the mark of his division inside the rhombus representing the Gotei 13 on the back of his haori. He wears his scabbard, surprisingly, on his back, his sword poking out over his left shoulder. To distinguish himself from the many other Shinigami, he wears a dark sleeve of black leather that goes from his elbow to his wrist. He also has a small cloak that he wears, a white one that ends with a series of free-flowing stripes that flow about in the wind. He has a long scar that winds is way across the side of his neck down across his chest, and he wears a single ring on his right ring finger. When summoning reiatsu, his aura shows itself as black in color, washing over him gently like a wave of shadow.
Personality:
Kaen has changed a lot during his time in Soul Society. The trials and tribulations he has gone through the centuries have shaped him into the being he is today. A quiet individual, Kaen prefers to watch and listen when other people talk, as he has lost his urge to chat long ago. He only really talks outside of formal reasons with close friends, some of the fellow captains, and the Ninth Division. Being a captain is a rank of honor and respect, but it also comes with staggering responsibilities that has taken him some time to get used to. He has taken his heavy duties seriously, which has given him a very serious tone and way of acting in recent years. The light joking of before has evolved in a quiet sense of responsibility and pride. He is proud of what he has done, and of the fact he was chosen by Sakata-sama for this position, and he will not see his position tainted by anything. That and with the coming assault of the Arrancar and the Vizard, he had had plenty on his mind. He is, however, very loyal to his division and Soul Society.
He would gladly give his life to defend the ideals and values that he has seen within the other divisions and Seireitei, and he takes their duty of guarding spirits very seriously. In battle, he is very serious and will not play around in battle. He has seen many a friend die due to such actions, and refuses to fall prey to such things. Kaen is still a kind individual outside of battle, and he is always eager to help out of his fellow captains, barring that he isn't already busy.
History:
Tainutsa Kaen was born in Kyoto, Japan, during the Meji Revolution, whereupon the Emperor restored peace and learning in Japan. He was born to parents who loved him dearly, and lived well. They were nothing like the nobles in the money department, but they did not have to worry about going into povertry. Peace reigned and prosperity was on the wind. Kaen grew up quickly, being taught the proper manners of his culture. He was taught basic reading, writing, and other important skills before being sent off to a school to extend his learning. He intended to go into law, perhaps become a judge and help further justice in his time. That was all a bright future for him, which his parents supported.
Then....the First Sino-Japanese War of 1893, where Japan and China fought over land as the Meji government moved to increase its sphere of influence and its power. With Japan having become an industrialized nation, and a world power, it felt it needed to expand. During the Sino-Japanese War, Kaen was one of the many students who were swept up by the military and sent into battle against the Chinese. The battles, although many times one-sided in favor of the Japanese, were fierce as the Chinese fought hard and long for their land. They would not be so easily removed from their land, despite the technology gap, and during one of their many battles, a stray shot slammed into Kaen's helmet and killed him. Just a few days before, his father, who had been drafted, had died and he had taken his ring to remember him by. Now he was the next one claimed by death's cold hand.
However, that was not the end of life, as he had thought. Due to his violent death, and his attachment to his fellow soldiers, he was tied down to the battlefield, always looking for his fellow soldiers. When the Shinigami came for him, and saw his predicament, they were able to show him that his fellows had survived, won the war, and had died natural deaths. At peace, he allowed himself to be taken and sent to Soul Society. Suddenly finding himself in a massive city, he wandered around for days, until he found a family who took him in. He quickly learned he was in Rukongai, and that he was going to live for a long time, and only needed to drink to survive. And that they were protected by the Shinigami, who came from Seireitei, and they were the ones who fought the Hollows and protected the Pluses, which is what they were.
It didn't take long for him to realize something was wrong, as he began to get hungry, something they hadn't told him about. Unknown to him, he had somehow gotten the lucky tarot card and had quite the reiatsu, for his untrained level. A representative from the Academy came and offered him a chance to become Shinigami. With thoughts of his time in the military, and knowing what the Shinigami did, he accepted.
The Academy was much of the same he had encountered in the schools he had been in before the war, and he did well in his studies. His prior training with firearms and swords gave him an edge in the close combat and swordmanship areas of the Academy. He graduated with great grades and a strong record in fighting. He was sent to join the 9th division, after the Academy, his reiatsu was strong.
And, as such, he has spent the next decades doing his duty as a Shinigami. He fought countless Hollows, helped many Pluses reach Soul Society and fought under the careful watch of the Fuku-taichou and Taichou of the Ninth Division. He continued training as much as possible, increasing his skills and he eventually managed to master Shikai. It was quite a process for him, as Aneishu was a very withdrawn and reluctant spirit, not wanting to give his power to Kaen until he had matured enough as a Shinigami and would be able to handle it. It came during a time when he was surrounded by Hollows, and he was heavily injured. He had been 6thd seat at the time, and quite strong, but even he could be overwhelmed by enough Hollows. And there were plenty to be had in this area; several squads had been deployed but had been in danger of being overwhelmed. Several stronger officers, including himself, had been sent to hold the line to give the 4th division time to evacuate the wounded. They were each beset by many Hollow and the battle turned fierce. The evacuation was having trouble getting finished, and the Hollows were pressing hard.
Kaen had been fighting with another seated officer from the 6th division when a large group of Hollows made a push and the vicious fighting soon saw himself stranded from the Shinigami he had been fighting with. In a short manner of time, he was overwhelmed and received serious wounds from their attacks and cero's. He was about to contemplate defeat, as his back lay against a tree, and he had not enough energy to lift his sword when the world seemed to freeze and a figure in black armor and cape appeared before him.
”Do you wish for it to end this way, Kaen? Do you want to lose?”
Kaen's answer was simple; he had too much to live for. The spirit inside his Zanpakutou combined his power with Kaen's, while telling him his name and to unleash their power. The resulting blast of reiatsu obliterated the Hollows about to feast on him, and sent a wave of dust and wind out. The result, as the dust died down, was revitalized Kaen. Wielding a new sword, emblazoned with strange characters on its longer and thicker blade. It took him little time to wipe out the Hollows around him. More kept coming, however, but the timely arrival of his divisions taichou ensured they were destroyed.
He spent the next centuries dedicating himself to becoming stronger, learning more about Aneishu, and rising through the ranks of the division. Soon enough, he had become 3rd seat and was quite powerful for his division. He respected the Fuku-taichiu and Taichou very much, and worked well with them. Often, when the paperwork load was too much, he would take on some of the burden to alleviate that. His strength still kept growing, although in small, minuscule increments, and it frustrated Kaen. Aneishu, when asked for aid, would only say that he was not yet strong enough to handle the secrets Aneishu still held. This frustrated him in his quest to be stronger, to make his division proud of him and worthy of their trust. He also, like many Shinigami, wanted to achieve the fame and eternal memory achieved when you attained Bankai. Like many, he struggled to achieve such a thing. But now....it appeared he was nearing his limit....and it angered him.
The years passed; he trained, worked, and lived in the Ninth Division, constantly seeking to push himself. However, he could not seem to go any farther. On a mission, he struggled to fight a Menos, and had to be saved by his taichou, and he was growing even angrier with himself. He wanted to achieve his dream! He wanted to achieve Bankai!
”How far would you go for that dream, Kaen? Would you still die for it, as you promised him many centuries ago?”?
Kaen paused, as he was swept into the castle world of Aneishu, who was gazing at him intently through his mask. He stood there, awaiting his response. Kaen could not speak, but managed to nod. Aneishu then closed his eyes.
”Very well. Then, I shall give you the final secret I have been withholding all this time. Are you prepared? You may not survive the trials I have for you.”
Kaen smirked. “Do you even need to ask me that after all this time?” Aneishu only chuckled. He had a point. Waving for him, he took him to the innermost sanctum of the castle, a training room underground where he proceeded to test Kaen to his very limits, with the trial of being able to manipulate the shadows around him. This was something he didn't have any idea on how to do, and he had to fight Aneishu at the same time.
The trial was harsh, brutal, and he nearly died several times. But in the end, with his own drive to see it live succeeded in spurring him to complete the trial. Aneishu, recognizing his strength, submitted to him. He had finally done, he had achieved Bankai
He tried to keep it quiet, though, since he wasn't sure himself how he was going to take it, but word spread quickly and reached the halls of the divisions. Soon enough, he was called into Yamamoto's office. No explanation was given, he was just called. Frightened, awed, and curious, he set out his best set of clothes and entered the inner sanctum of the Captain-Commander. The wise but powerful old man spoke to him about his actions, how he had been a good member of the Ninth Division and had helped the previous taichou before he had died of old age. He said, however, that he was most surprised that he had achieved Bankai and not mentioned it to anyone yet. He had been called here as to why. Kaen was very reluctant to say, but he knew that he could not tell the Captain-Commander. He told, very plainly and simply, that he had wanted to improve his skills with Bankai and try to master it before he mentioned it. That, and he knew he'd probably be a captain and that he was unsure of how he felt about that.
The old man was quiet for several moments, and then got out of his chair, and looked out the window behind his desk. He then spoke, telling Kaen that he was not surprised, that he had thought those were the reasons. However, he said that Soul Society needed leaders, captains to lead the divisions, and rally the division together. He was offering him captainship, but not just for any division. So, he was asking him to take the mantle of the Ninth Division taichou. His actions over the years showed that he had the talent for it, and he already was eligible by Bankai, and that the other captains had agreed with him. Shocked and elated at the same time beyond his wild dreams, he numbly accepted it.
Soon after, his initiation ceremony was announced, and he was quickly ushered in as the new taichou of Ninth Division. Many were shocked, especially close friends who had known him for a long time. Kaen, however, had some things to do. As soon as he was given the taichou uniform, as well as the position, he immediately assembled the division and laid out the ground rules. He was not intending to replace the previous taichou in their memories, nor did he expect automatic respect. He was here to do his best to lead them, and aid Soul Society, to do his duty. He only asked that they give him the chance to do so. Surprising him, they accepted him eagerly, as for many it was not overly different serving him than when he was 3rd seat.
And since that point, he has fought hard for Soul Society and his division, doing the best he could to help. Now, with the threat of the Arrancar and the Vizard arising, and the real world in danger, he realized he would be thrust once again into battle....and that Soul Society may be in greater danger than it ever had.....
Abilities:
Kaen is a superb swordsman and his abilities revolve around that. He is an excellent user of Shunpo, as it is key to his fighting style and his skill in zanjustu. His skill with hakada or (hand to hand combat) and zanjutsu (sword techniques) is well-known from his time in the Academy on. Kidou is not his strong point and he only knows a couple spells that he uses to aid him in his battles.
Zanpakutoh/Bow/Doll:
Sealed Form: Aneishu, in its sealed state, does not look much different than the other swords that belong to the other Shinigami of Seireitei. The blade is well-kept and looks almost brand new, thanks to the constant maintenance that Kaen bestows upon the blade. It's blade, a light gray color, shines in the sunlight and the sharp edge is shown in the way light glints off of it in facets. However, one can swear that when they look in the blade, they can see shadows stirring, and obscuring the light around it. Those who look hard enough or are experienced enough to see such things, they can see a light aura of black reiatsu glowing around the blade, a hint of what is to come with Aneishu.
The hilt is really the only part that distinguishes the sword from the other Zanpakotou's is the hilt. The hilt has no design, no special markings. It is a simple...black, a void in which no color can escape. The pommel of the hilt is capped by gold, rectangular cloth, and a gold string descends from the hilt. The guard around the top of the hilt it also black in nature. It reveals a hint of what is to come with the blade, the Lord of Shadows.
Shikai
Shikai Release Phrase: ”Kusari maro yorisono kumori, Aneishu!” (Unchain yourself from the shadows, Lord of Shadows!)
Shikai Appearance: With the command for the shikai released form is said, the sword drastically changes. The blade takes on a completely black form, with silver lines running down it, with the hilt becoming much slimmer. The blade in itself becomes twice as thick and twice as long, making it an insane looking weapon, and would be unwieldy if not for the fact that the sword is part of Kaen's soul and weighs nothing to him. It also has a series of black characters, the one from Aneishu's mask, running down the blade, which shift and twist as Kaen's reiatsu expands or shrinks. The hilt slims down to where this is no guard, and the hilt itself is a small sliver of black and silver, half of it silver and half of it black. The gold thread coming off the pommel still exists, but the rest of the blade dramatically changes. The blade, again, constantly has an small aura of blackness which surrounds it, hinting at the special power the blade offers.
Shikai Abilities:
”Aneisochi!” or “Shadow Step.”
Aneisochi is the only ability that Kaen's shikai gives him, but a powerful and useful technique for that reason. Aneisochi, or “Shadow Step” has two parts. One, it causes his shadow to slightly bulge out, as if to accommodate for his entire body, making it seem he was standing on a shadowy disk. The second part, is that he can choose, at will, to sink into any shadow he is standing on, touching, etc, and he can reappear in any shadow in the immediate area, up to fifty feet. This includes his own shadow, his opponents shadow, etc. The beginning of the technique requires that he enter a shadow that can accommodate his body, hence the extending of his own shadow, but he can exit any shadow he chooses , except for the tiniest of dots. He could easily come from the shade of a small tree and strike at an opponent. This is designed to increase his skill in close combat and swordmanship, two things he excels at, and allow him to get close to his enemy and further allow him to use what he is good at against his opponent.
”Bikou Sutoraiki!” or “Shadow Strike”
Bikou Sutoraiki is the only real offensive attack that Kaen's shikai form gives him, as Shadow Step is more of a support ability than anything else. If not for this, he would still have to rely on his own personal skills in battle. This ability is very simple, but powerful. It works by Kaen moving his sword to a point where he can swing down to gain momentum, be it up into the air, or behind him. Then, he twists the sword slightly, which those who have fought him before would know that the attack has begun. Then, shadows from all around, even his and his own opponent's should he be close enough, will gather around the sword, combining with the aura present around it to form a “shadow blade” of sorts. However, that is misleading. It is merely a gathering point for the shadows; Kaen then combines that shadow with his reiatsu until it is ready, and then he unleashes it by slashing down, yelling the name. The reiatsu-enhanced shadows then blast towards the enemy in a straight, immense wave. It can't be directed, but it causes immense damage to whatever it hits, barring something stronger than Kaen or something that negates it. He can also strengthen the attack by giving more shadow than he normally uses, or fire it off quicker if he uses less.
Bankai
”Anei Tenshu!” or “Shadow God”.
Bankai Appearance: Unlike many of the other Bankai's, Kaen's sword retains the size it had in its shikai form, albeit a bit smaller. It is, however, vastly changed over before. The aura around the sword has increased to the point that it is visible to anyone who isn't blind, and it courses around it like lightning. The blade no longer has any black characters on it, or much of anything, as it has become a blade of shining white light. This is kind of an ironic turn, when one realizes that Anei Tenshu's, or “Shadow God's” blade is a beacon of light. Those who have fought with him, or have incredibly analytical minds, will realize that this is to vastly increase the element that he works with: shadow. The light is bright, but not overly so, and it is never shifting, never changing. It is always a single steady stream of light. The hilt and guard, however, are not light, but solid objects. The hilt is black and is a thin but strong metal, with a unknown crest at the pommel. The hilt is black, and ends with spikes going outward, while on the first few inches of the blade, there is a small line with spikes coming off of it.
Bankai Abilities: Anei Tenshu has an immediate ability when it comes out. It does not have a name, but it causes the blade to become a bright white light in the form of a blade, which still functions as a sword. The light is bright, but it is not hurtful to the eyes. However, it allows for an immense amount of shadow to be contrasted about the area, even lengthening an opponents shadow, giving Kaen greater access in attacking them. However, this comes at the price of not having a shadow, or a shadow in a three feet radius. Instead of just melting into the shadows at his feet, he has to go beyond that. He is able to enter shadows beyond that because his reiatsu blocks the shadow-obliterating light from going any further. This gives him an incredible amount of shadow to work with his Aneisochi and his Bikou Sutoraiki abilities, which are enhanced by the Bankai.
Anesochi is enhanced to where his speed is increase, and he now jump from almost any shadow with the speed greater than that of Shunpo, which is boosted by his Bankai as is natural in that state. The Shadow Strike technique is now boosted to the point were it now takes little time and effort to use, and with the Bankai causing so much shadow, it has plenty to work with. He only needs to twist the blade a bit, summon the shadow, and the attack is ready.
However, the Bankai does have a third ability, unique to its release. It is Anei Soujuu, or “Shadow Manipulation.” With the large amount of shadows about, and the Bankai released, Kaen can use this single, but very powerful ability. The ability allows him to form the shadow to do several things: block attacks/shield himself, where he can cause a bunch of shadow to form up around him, or in the shape of anything he chooses, to block attacks. It can be overtaken, as the strength of the shield depends on how much shadow and reiatsu he puts it into. He can also absorb attacks, by pulling enough shadow in front of him, and the attack coming for him, such as a Kidou, would go into the shadow and began negated in that absence of light. Again, it can be overwhelmed and depends on how much Kaen puts into it. Finally, he can take up shadow, mix it with his reiatsu, and then fire it off in beams and waves for easy, quick attacks on an opponent.
RP Sample:
Kaen sat in his chair, carefully writing out the report he needed to bring to the Vice Captain tomorrow considering he had led the squad that had been assigned to holding off the Hollows while the other group helped to evacuate a group of Pluses away from the scene, to where they could do the Soul Ritual in safety. Rubbing his eyes tiredly, he set down his quill and gazed out the window at the stars. He saw all the way to the spot of the Soukyoku, where not so long ago Kuchiki Rukia was to be have been executed there. Kaen sighed; that thing had been a mess from the start, and they hadn't even known it until it had been brutally revealed to them by Isane. Aizen had manipulated them all as perfect as a master puppeteer, and they had been none the wiser. There were dark days coming ahead.
However, a smile came to his face. Indeed, Kurosaki Ichigo had done the impossible and shattered Soul Society into making change. Cold, limp, struggling Seireitei reorganized and became much more streamlined, much more efficient. They were weakened, no doubt about that, but they could get things done in a much better fashion. With the threat of Aizen and the Hougyoku that he had managed to gain through all his efforts here in Soul Society. Although they had been greatly hurt by what had happened, they were now able to make the changes needed to revitalize this place.
”Not to mention I got to be alive when Shihouin Yoruichi and Kisuke Urahara came back into the limelight.”
Yes, it was indeed a good day to be alive and in Seireitei. He returned to the report, continuing his paperwork. The mission had gone without a hitch, and they had trounced the Hollows who had tried to attack them. They had been momentarily forced back due to numbers, but they had cut down enough to reverse the situation and pushed back again. They had, in fact, to be told to pull back, that the mission was completed. The other group, though they blustered, understood why. Every Shinigami tried to defeat as many Hollows as possible, to try and lower their numbers, to try and purify that many more people. Especially with Aizen in Hueco Mundo, with an almost infinite army of Hollows at his command. He had shown before that he could experiment with them and give them abilities similar to those of the Shinigami, such as hiding their reiatsu. No, unhindered, and able to do more with the Hougyoku, it was a threat indeed. He gazed down at the sign of the division. The sign Tousen-sama had once worn.....
”Why did you leave, Tousen-sama....?”
Shaking away the memories, he settled down once more to finish his report. After all, he'd rather not be chewed out again and chased by Renji-san. Smiling at the thought, he moved the quill across the page with more energy, seeing to its completion.
OOC: The name is not Taisnuta Kaen or whatever it is, but the word blocker you have is changing it.
