Archetype - Shinigami

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Kerrigan
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Posts: 448

Archetype - Shinigami Nov 28, 2022 20:38:25 GMT -8

Post by Kerrigan on Nov 28, 2022 20:38:25 GMT -8

Archetype: Shinigami

Shinigami (死神, aka soul reapers; lit. death god) are spiritually gifted souls tasked with guiding deceased souls to the Soul Society, and cleansing Hollowfied souls (aka Hollows) so that they can find peace in the afterlife. Shinigami are the preeminent psychopomps within Otherworld and dwell within the Sereitei (court of pure souls); the only city within Soul Society.

Most prospective Shinigami are spirits that were born within the Sereitei itself, or more rarely the Rukongai district outside it's walls. Still yet other Shinigami were formerly Awakened Humans who came to Soul Society after their mortal death, or rarer still - belong to another spiritually awakened species that found its way to Soul Society.

Powers & Abilities

As the warrior-guardians of the afterlife, Shinigami have a number of unique powers and abilities to aid them in their spiritual duties.

Zanpakutō (斬魄刀, Soul-Cutter Sword)

These powerful, Soulbound weapons imbue their wielder with incredible combat abilities, and powerful transformations (called Shikai; and Bankai; respectively) that are unique to each Shinigami.

Outside of their Shihakushō (死覇装, lit. garment of dead souls) uniforms, these weapons are the most recognizable symbol of the Shinigami. No Shinigami will willingly part with their Zanpakutō under any circumstances.

Zankensoki

Shinigami have Access to [4] [Exclusive] Skills; which collectively form the fighting arts of the shinigami. These four skills are known as Zanjutsu; Kidō; Hakuda; and Hōhō; respectively and are described in detail in the Zankensoki tab.

Spiritual Beings

As spiritual beings, Shinigami are both [Invisible] and [Intangible] to most mortals. This allows them to [Fly], walk through walls, and go about their duties undetected by the vast majority of inhabitants. Mortals are not however, intangible to Shinigami, and may be injured or killed by their actions in the Mortal World.
In order to see a Shinigami, a character must possess the power of Reikaku (霊覚, "Spiritual Sense"); This ability is possessed by all PCs; and many NPCs in Shonen-Verse.

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Last Edit: Dec 7, 2022 18:34:07 GMT -8 by Kerrigan

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Kerrigan
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Posts: 448

Archetype - Shinigami Dec 5, 2022 9:18:10 GMT -8

Post by Kerrigan on Dec 5, 2022 9:18:10 GMT -8

Archetype: Shinigami

Temp notes

A Shinigami's Zanpakutō grants them a number of powers and techniques. These abilities are described briefly below (see Zanpakutō tab for more detailed information):

Henshin: By forming a close connection to their Zanpakutō, Shinigami can unlock two powerful transformations; called Shikai (始解, Initial Release); and Bankai (卍解, Final Release); respectively. Each of these transformations are unique to each character, and grant them incredible boosts in power, and ability. Unlocking and mastering these transformations are considered benchmarks in a Shinigami's development, and power.

Konsō (魂葬, Soul Burial): By tapping the pommel of their zanpakutō to the forehead of a deceased spirit (which Shinigami call "Pluses"), a Shinigami can send a Lost Soul who has become trapped in the Mortal World to either Soul Society (if they were good in life), or Hell (if evil). This is a sacred duty of the Shinigami, and prevents the soul from transforming into a Hollow. This ability does not function on Souls possessing a Halo.

Hollow Purification: A zanpakutō has the ability to purify the sins of Hollows in combat, allowing the tortured soul to be cleansed and be sent to Soul Society. This ability functions automatically upon slaying a Hollow in combat, typically by cutting a Hollow's mask in half.

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Last Edit: Jul 24, 2023 18:08:10 GMT -8 by Kerrigan

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Kerrigan
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Posts: 448

Archetype - Shinigami Dec 5, 2022 9:18:19 GMT -8

Post by Kerrigan on Dec 5, 2022 9:18:19 GMT -8

Archetype: Shinigami

All shinigami have a unique; named Zanpakutō which is acquired automatically upon gaining this Archetype. Each Zanpakutō takes the appearance of a type of Japanese sword, such as a katana; nodachi; wakizashi; or tanto; while in its sealed state. Its appearance while released however, are as unique and varied as their wielders.

You gain the following item.

Zanpakutō [Unique, Empathic, Signature, Soulbound]

Name: You must choose a unique name for your Zanpakutō. The Name of most shinigami's weapon is identical to the name of their Shikai release, and can be left blank if this ability has not yet been unlocked.
Appearance: Describe your Zanpakutō's sealed appearance.
Traits: Any traits your Zanpakutō has while released are listed here. Do not however, list traits specific to one (or more) Zanpakutō techniques. If your Zanpakutō is an Elemental type, remember to include your elemental traits here. Your Zanpakutō does not possess any of these traits while sealed however.
Type: Choose one of the following: Melee; Kidō; or Elemental. Your Zanpakutō's type determines what kind of abilities it may possess. You may also list a subtype if desired (this is mandatory for Elemental type zanpakutō). You must make this choice during character creation. A detailed description of the three main types, as well as the most common subtypes are described below.
Zanpakutō Theme: All Zanpakutō have a unique theme, which defines their overall powers and abilities. A Zanpakuto's Shikai; Bankai; and each of their Zanpakutō Techniques must somehow reflect this chosen theme. This should be no more than a couple words giving a brief overview of your zanpakutō's powers and abilities (as more space is provided later for a more detailed description of your zanpakutō theme).

Ichigo's Theme for example, is to Condense Reiatsu; thereby allowing him to improve his combat abilities, and unleash his signature getsuga tenshō technique. Meanwhile, Hitsugaya's Theme is Ice Manifestation; which he uses to conjure a variety of powerful ice-based attacks, and to fly with the power of dragon-like wings of ice.

All Zanpakutō begin as Asauchi (浅打, lit. Shallow Hit); nameless swords which are presented to each Novice Shinigami early in their training at the Shinō Academy. Even at this stage, these empathic weapons possess a unique soul which has yet to bind itself to its wielder and may be stolen, or gifted to another character in the event of the Shinigami's demise.

As the bond between master and zanpakutō forms, this spirit (which is referred to as a zanpakutō spirit) takes on a unique appearance, and personality. Communicating with this spirit is usually performed through a practice known as Jinzen (刃禅, lit. Sword Meditation); which is a form of deep meditative trance. Shinigami who have attained close kinship with their zanpakutō may also communicate with their Zanpakutō Spirit without entering this trance. The Spirit can also choose to manifest itself in the real world, or forcibly pull its master into their Inner World in order to communicate.

Zanpakutō Type

Zanpakutō come in three main Types: Melee-Type zanpakutō which enhance the user's combat abilities in some fashion; Kidō-Type zanpakutō whose abilities revolve around a unique special ability; and finally, Elemental-Type zanpakutō whose abilities relate to a single element.

When designing your shinigami's Theme; Shikai Ability; Bankai Ability; and Zanpakutō Techniques; you must always keep your zanpakutō's Type (and possible subtype) in the forefront, as powers and techniques which don't releate to your chosen type will be rejected.

Melee-Type Zanpakutō

These zanpakutō can take the form of any melee weapon during release. Your zanpakutō's shikai ability; bankai ability; and technique(s) must relate to fighting, but need not be directly physical in nature.

Within the canon; Ichigo Kurosaki's Zangetsu; Renji Abarai's Zabimaru; and Kenpachi Zaraki's Nozarashi; are all melee-type zanpakutō.
There are no known melee subtypes. However, this does not stop you from creating one for your character.

Melee Exclusive: [Combat Boost] During [Bankai]; zanpakutō of this type boost the [Rank] of [1] Physical Attribute of their choice: Strength; Speed; Stamina; or Durability. This choice must be made upon first obtaining Bankai; and once chosen, cannot be altered (except as part of a Power Change). This boost is in addition to your Bankai Ability (which cannot also increase your attributes).

Within the canon; Ichigo's Bankai boosts his Speed; while the Bankais of Kenpachi; Renji; and Ikkaku; all boost their Strength.

Kidō-Type Zanpakutō

This is the widest category of zanpakutō types, and has several known subtypes (and many unknown subtypes) within its perview. All zanpakutō of this type are categorized for having an overall Theme that falls outside the basic close-combat prowess, and which does not relate to a specific element.
Characters with kidō-type zanpakutō have the greatest flexibility when it comes to designing your Theme; and powers for your zanpakutō, as your zanpakutō's appearance; form; and abilities; can be almost anything imaginable. As a result, characters with kidō-type zanpakutō typically have the most original, and unusual powersets among all the shinigami.
There are several known sub-types although many others have yet to be discovered. Not all kidō-type zanpakutō have a subtype, although many do. The known subtypes are: Poison; Illusion; Projectile; Defense; and Living.

Within the canon; Byakuya Kuchiki's Senbonzakura; Shunsui Kyoraku's Katen Kyokotsui; and Saijen Komamura's Tenken; are all Kidō-type zanpakutō.

Elemental-Type Zanpakutō

The powers and abilities of elemental-type zanpakutō involve the control, manipulation, and generation of a single element (chosen during shikai creation). All elemental-type zanpakutō have a subtype specific to its element. Elemental-type zanpakutō are the easiest type of zanpakutō to design powers for, however their reliance on a single element can make them somewhat predictable, or easily countered by their opposition.
The following elements include all known elemental subtypes, although others may yet to be discovered: Fire; Ice; Wind; Water; Earth; Electric; Darkness; Light; and Plant. Subtypes which control fundamental forces such as Time; Density; or Gravity; are possible, however these subtypes are heavily scrutinized for balance.

Within the canon; Yamamoto's Ryūjin Jakka; Tōshirō Hitsugaya's Hyōrinmaru; and Kaien Shiba's Nejibana; are all elemental-type zanpakutō.

Zanpakutō Theme

In this section, you can provide a more detailed description of your Zanpakutō's overall theme, and abilities. Be as detailed as you wish, however be mindful that your Zanpakutō Theme does not grant any powers or abilities by itself. You may describe any ongoing powers or effects granted to your character by your Shikai and/or Bankai abilities and how they relate to your overall ability, however your theme itself cannot introduce powers or abilities that are not part of your Shikai or Bankai release.

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Last Edit: Jul 24, 2023 18:08:33 GMT -8 by Kerrigan

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Kerrigan
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Posts: 448

Archetype - Shinigami Dec 5, 2022 9:18:31 GMT -8

Post by Kerrigan on Dec 5, 2022 9:18:31 GMT -8

Archetype: Shinigami

Last Edit: Jul 24, 2023 18:09:12 GMT -8 by Kerrigan

System Master

Kerrigan
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Posts: 448

Archetype - Shinigami Dec 5, 2022 9:18:39 GMT -8

Post by Kerrigan on Dec 5, 2022 9:18:39 GMT -8

Archetype: Shinigami

Shikai (始解, Initial Release)

Upon first hearing the name of their Zanpakutō, all Shinigami are drawn into their Inner World for the first time, and meet their Zanpakutō Spirit.

Novice Tier Shinigami

[Novice] Shinigami who have reached [S-Tier] must complete at least [3] Combat threads, plus [2] additional threads in order to qualify for [Shikai]. They must also manifest their Zanpakutō Spirit at least once during these threads (either visually, or audibly), and learn their Zanpakutō's name.

Zanpakutō Training

Once these requirements have been met, the shinigami must then undergo [Shikai Training] within their Inner World. Shikai Training is a special type of [Solo Training] thread in which the Shinigami fights their Zanpakutō Spirit; and learns how to activate their Shikai Release.
This thread must be at least [30] paragraphs in length, and should teach you something about your character (such as a flaw; ideal; or motivation). At the end of the thread, you choose the appearance; and Kaigo (release command) of your Shikai Release. Releasing your Shikai for the first time is known as Kengen (lit. manifestation) and is an important milestone in the life of all shinigami.
Unlike most [Solo Training] threads, this thread should be posted in the Character Advancement board, as it includes an upgrade to your character's abilities.

Shikai Upgrade

In a separate reply at the end of your [Shikai Training] thread, you should fill out a [Shikai Upgrade] request using the provided template. This should detail your Zanpakutō's overall Theme; Type; Shikai Ability; and your starting [Shikai] Technique(s). Make sure to include any [Variants] on this technique that can be performed upon obtaining S-Rank; SS-Rank; and SSS-Rank; in the Zanjutsu skill.
Duration: [Permanent] Your [Shikai] (see below) may optionally have a duration of [Permanent]. You must make this decision at the time you create your [Shikai] release. [Permanent] Release zanpakuto have fewer [Shikai] and [Bankai] techniques than most other zanpakuto.

Expert Shinigami

[Expert]; [Elite]; and [Legendary]; Tier Shinigami should complete the [Shikai] Template as part of your character application. Upon approval of your character, you will begin play capable of performing [Shikai] automatically; without having to undergo any of the required threads. You may still desire to complete [Shikai Training] as a [Flashback] thread, to help flesh out your character's history, but this is not mandatory.
[Flashback] Training should not be posted in the Character Advancement board, and is treated as a normal [Solo Training] thread save for its content.

Shikai Release
You gain the following [Exclusive] technique (provided as part of the Shikai Template).

Shikai [Exclusive, Unique, Sustained; Signature] A-Rank; [Cost]

Name: Provide the name of your Shikai Release here.
Kaigo (Release Command): All Zanpakutō have a unique release command, which must be spoken in order to activate your Shikai release. This most often takes the form of a single word, phrase, or sentence followed by the name of your Shikai. For example: "Awaken, Benihime!"
Duration: A Shinigami's [Shikai] release has a Duration of [Sustained]. However, unlike most sustained techniques, a Shinigami only pays the cost of this technique once; after which the technique remains active for the duration of one battle in [PvP] threads, or [5] posts in an Adventure thread. During an adventure, a Shinigami can pay the cost multiple times without ending their Shikai. Each time they pay the cost, it renews their Shikai duration for another [5] posts.

A Shinigami cannot [Sustain] their Shikai release if they are [Incapacitated]; [Unconscious]; or their Chakra; or Stamina; falls below [10].

[Novice] shinigami may optionally have a [Shikai] with a duration of [Permanent] instead. As a permanent release zanpakutō, your zanpakutō no longer has a sealed state. Instead, your zanpakutō treats it's [Shikai] release as it's weakest form (at no cost).
Appearance: Describe your Zanpakutō's appearance while in Shikai Release. Most Shikai take the form of some kind of melee weapon, however this is not mandatory.
Shikai Ability: Provide a detailed description of your Zanpakutō's Shikai Ability. This ability should be some kind of constant power or effect which your zanpakutō generates during Shikai release, such as [enhanced speed]; or [flight]. You should describe how this ability relates directly to your Theme; and be as detailed as possible.

Your Shikai Ability cannot include multiple sub-powers or abilities. For such powers, you must instead spend [1] or more of your [Shikai] techniques.
Rank: While most [Signature] techniques have a [Rank] equal to the Character's [Rank]; your [Shikai] instead has a [Rank] equal to Zanjutsu [-1].

Shikai Technique(s)

You gain [2] [Shikai] techniques, which can only be used while your zanpakutō is in a Released state (either [Shikai]; or [Bankai];)

The template provided will help you to properly format each of your zanpakutō techniques. [Permanent] Release zanpakutō only begin play with [1] [Shikai] technique (instead of the normal [2]).
Each of these techniques has the [Linked]; [Shikai]; and [Signature]; traits, in addition to any traits based on your zanpakutō's Type (and/or subtype). Many zanpakutō techniques have additional traits specific to each technique.
When designing these powers, the power must relate to both your zanpakutō Theme; and/or your Shikai Ability; in some fashion.
As [Linked] [Signature] techniques, these techniques have a [Rank] equal to the [Rank] of your current release (either [Shikai]; or [Bankai];)

Variant Techniques

Characters who obtain [S-Rank] (or higher) in the [Exclusive] Zanjutsu Skill gain the ability to create a number of [Variant] Zanpakutō techniques.
Information on creating [Variant] techniques is described in the Zanjutsu skill.

[Shikai] is a requirement to become a Seated Officer; or Vice Captain; of the Gotei 13.

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Last Edit: Jul 24, 2023 18:09:55 GMT -8 by Kerrigan

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Kerrigan
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Posts: 448

Archetype - Shinigami Dec 5, 2022 10:27:18 GMT -8

Post by Kerrigan on Dec 5, 2022 10:27:18 GMT -8

Archetype: Shinigami

Bankai (卍解, Final Release)

Upon first hearing the name of their Zanpakutō, all Shinigami are drawn into their Inner World for the first time, and meet their Zanpakutō Spirit. Novice-Tier Shinigami who have reached S-Tier must complete a [Solo Training] thread in which their Zanpakutō Spirit trains them in unlocking their Shikai Release.

Shinigami of Expert-Tier (or higher) begin play with Shikai automatically unlocked, and need not complete this thread. They may however, choose to complete this thread as a [Flashback] gaining the normal rewards for doing so.

Once you have unlocked Shikai, you must post a [Shikai Advancement] thread listing your characters Shikai ability, and starting technique(s). Shinigami characters of Expert-Tier (or above), must instead include their Shikai Release as part of their application.

You gain the following [Exclusive] technique.

Shikai [Exclusive, Unique, Sustained] A-Rank; [Cost]

Name: Provide the name of your Shikai Release here.
Release Command: All Zanpakutō have a unique release command, which must be spoken in order to activate your Shikai release. This most often takes the form of a single word, phrase, or sentence followed by the name of your Shikai. For example: "Awaken, Benihime!"
Duration: A Shinigami's Shikai release has a duration of [Sustained]. However, unlike most sustained techniques, a Shinigami only pays the cost of this technique once, after which the technique remains active for the duration of one battle in [PvP] threads, or 5-posts in an [Adventure] thread. During an adventure, a Shinigami can pay the cost multiple times without ending their Shikai. Each time they pay the cost, it renews their Shikai duration for another 5 posts.

A Shinigami cannot [Sustain] their Shikai release if they are [Incapacitated]; [Unconscious]; or their Chakra or Endurance falls below 10.

Permanent-Release (Novice-exclusive): Novice-Tier Shinigami have the option of gaining a Permanent-Release Zanpakutō. This choice must be made during your [Shikai Advancement] application, and reduces the number of Zanpakutō Techniques you obtain (see Shikai; and Bankai; below).

Should you choose this option, the duration of your Shikai Release becomes [Permanent] instead of [Sustained]. As a permanent release zanpakutō, your Zanpakutō no longer has a sealed state. Instead, your Zanpakutō treats its Shikai Release as its weakest form.
Appearance: Describe your Zanpakutō's appearance while in Shikai Release. Most Shikai take the form of some kind of melee weapon, however this is not mandatory.
Shikai Ability: Provide a detailed description of your Zanpakutō's Shikai Ability. This ability should be some kind of constant power or effect which your zanpakutō generates during Shikai release, such as [enhanced speed], or [flight]. You should describe how this ability relates directly to your Theme, and be as detailed as possible.

Your Shikai Ability cannot include multiple sub-powers or abilities. For such powers, you must instead spend [1] or more of your Shikai techniques.

[Shikai] Techniques: Unlocking your [Shikai] Release, grants you [2] [Shikai] Techniques, and [1] [Shikai, Variant] Technique. You may trade [1] [Shikai] Technique, to obtain a second [Variant] technique if desired.

Characters with Permanent-Release Zanpakutō do not begin play knowing any [Variant] techniques. They may still trade [1] of their [Shikai] Techniques for a [Variant] technique if desired.

NOTE: Upgrading the rank of your [Shikai] grants additional [Variant] techniques. In addition, upon obtaining [Bankai]; you gain the option to trade [1] of your [Bankai] Techniques, to obtain [2] additional [Shikai] Techniques. Finally, Zanjutsu Specialists gain additional [Zanpakutō] Techniques, as part of their specialty.

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Last Edit: Jul 24, 2023 18:10:16 GMT -8 by Kerrigan

System Master

Kerrigan
Omni-King

Posts: 448

Archetype - Shinigami Dec 5, 2022 12:56:56 GMT -8

Post by Kerrigan on Dec 5, 2022 12:56:56 GMT -8

Archetype: Shinigami

Shinigami have several [Exclusive] Specialties (see links above), that characters of other Archetypes cannot take. In addition to the above [5] Specialties; shinigami can take any of the following additional Specialties:

Specialist
Fractured
Kensei
Berserker

A brief description of the Shinigami [Exclusive] Specialties is as follows:

Zanjutsu Master

You are an expert in the art of Zanjutsu. Mastery of this shinigami [Exclusive] Skill grants you the ability to unlock additional [Shikai]; and [Bankai]; Techniques for your Zanpakutō.
Requirements: [Shikai]; [SS] Zanjutsu

Onmitsukidō

You are a member of the secret order of the Onmitsukidō; and an undisputed master of Hakuda. Mastery of this shinigami [Exclusive] Skill grants you Access to Onmitsukidō [Exclusive] techniques, and grants [10] Bonus Hakuda technique slots.
Requirements: Squad 2; [SS] Hakuda

Kidō Specialist

You are a master of the spellcasting art of Kidō. Mastery of this shinigami [Exclusive] Skill grants you additional [Signature] Kidō Techniques; a subspecialty in your choice of Hadō; Bakudō; or Kaidō; and [10] Bonus Kidō technique slots.
Requirements: [SS] Kidō; cannot belong to Squad 11

Vizard [Novice Exclusive]

You are a Vizard; a hybrid between a Shinigami; and a Hollow. As a vizard, you will unlock Vizard [Exclusive] techniques and abilities, unavailable to any other shinigami, including (but not limited to) the Vizard Mask; and Resurrección.
Requirements: [Novice]; This specialty must be chosen during character creation, and cannot be replaced/removed later.

Shinigami Hybrid [Novice Exclusive]

You are a Hybrid; a shinigami born with the powers of an unusual Species; or Specialty. During character creation, choose either an unusual Species (eg. saiyan; or majin); or either the Quincy; or Fullbringer; Specialty. You gain Access to [Exclusive] techniques belonging to that Species; or Specialty.
Requirements: [Novice]; This specialty must be chosen during character creation, and cannot be replaced/removed later.

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Last Edit: Dec 5, 2022 18:40:35 GMT -8 by Kerrigan

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