Mika's Belly of Science

{Powers}
Fighting Style:

"Fight. As in a physical confrontation? With an adversary? Like...a melee? Fisticuffs? Truly?...I don't believe we have met. My name is Mika Kurosawa. I'm a real Scientist. The only things I fight are ideas. Both factual and theoretical. My training consists of research. My battles are experiments. It is neither my pleasure nor purpose to involve myself in physical altercations. If my talents are needed for eradication; then the conflict has evolved beyond swords and struggle. Asking me to kill something; is asking for populicide." Except for babies, those he just eats. "Veal? I find myself uncharacteristically agreeing with you..." And now I feel dirty.

Ask a Question

"First and foremost comes a question. The all important question. "What am I trying to achieve?" With a specimen in mind; is it satisfactory to just kill the target? Is there something I desire from the subject, other than it’s demise? More than likely, yes. I am not a man who kills without reason. I can’t fathom a soul who is a purposeless killer. Even Hollows typically kill for a reason; whether it be hunger or addiction. I myself often discover my need for a corpse before making it. Usually I am gathering data; information regarding the method and capability of a particular threat. Rating their danger, or researching how best to neutralize their threat altogether. The results are exceptionally useful in destroying both individuals, and any those who share their race. Such work is usually asked of me, and not sought on my own volition. I personally don't want to spend my time seeing other people fight. Not that I am opposed to the confrontation, it just bores me. It is the same as observing a sport I care nothing for...like lumberjacking. All I can think is, "Who cares how these men handle wood." Oh, I think you true colors just showed. "Since when do colors define truth?" No, it's an expres..."Or I could be gathering supplies. This scenario is more prevalent.

There is never a shortage of scientific discoveries to be made, but there is always a shortage of materials to work with. No where more so than the field of Biology. That said, it seems there are always enough corpses when they aren't needed. Since war is decreasingly reliable occurrence; I often have to make the death myself. It can be fun, yes...but it is never not tedious. One way or another, there is a goal that I serve. Facts or flesh, I always need one." OK. I was going to let the jokes go, but seriously? "So I consider what I am trying to acquire. This helps me plan my research to the finest point. Do I need to learn how best to incite my target into divulging their secrets? The ways that most rile the aggressions and prompt their action. Do I need a sample. If so, living or dead? Can I afford to disease the target? Is incineration or acidic degeneration out of the question? Could I get what I need without resistance? If so...would it be easier to kill them, than to ask for permission? These are the questions lead me to answer, "What am I trying to achieve?" Honestly. If more people took the time to ask these sorts of questions before a fight...we might have more useful corpses."

Do Research

"As I stated before, I begin by asking myself a question. Identifying the need that must be fulfilled. It is only after I have crafted a question for myself that I can begin research. Research...I must say, is one of my favorite portions of the process. Delving through mountains of accumulated facts and accounts. It is here that most scientists must spend the bulk of their careers. Just like students in school; we are required to examine every aspect of our topic of choice. We are expected to identify everything of value and eliminate the excess. Often times I find myself greedily including far more than necessary...but I can easily write it off as "being thorough". There really is no way to be thorough enough. When you are trying to understand a question you have; you need an abundance of data. This is to isolate the real problem in your confusion. Say you want someone killed. Many people find themselves wanting such a thing at some point. Often several. While many are content to accept they want someone dead; I take the time to learn why. Why must this person die? Why not another? Once I can recognize why my chosen target is the target at all; I look deeper. Examining who they are as a person: privately, professionally, emotionally, mentally, physically. The more I can understand about my target, the better. Facts about them cannot be too obscure or inconsequential; not when they are to be removed from the world.

If any hope is to exist for their destruction; all aspects of their existence must be valued and considered. This is more than just learning and cataloguing weakness and strengths. It is understanding the motivations behind those strengths and weaknesses. I have to know this individual on an intimate level. Why? Well I am certainly not a romantic, but I can still assert that taking someone's life is the most personal thing that could ever happen to them. There is no relationship more elaborate or important, than the ones we have with our killers. So, I endeavor to provide a very personalized death. One tailored to the individual. One that will suit them seamlessly and insure a quick and effective demise. Or, a debilitating experience which offers me total reign over them....to do whatever it is I might do. "How do you fight?" is too vague a question to answer with certainties. This is frustrating. There are just too many variables and alterations to be considered. To clarify this step of my procedure in a concise way; I will know everything about a target before I have reason to eliminate it. I do not haphazardly attempt to take the lives of others. They have to be a problem..."

Specify a Problem

"Problem. Now that is the key word to consider. "What is the problem I have?" The same goes double for killing another person, and triple for engaging them in direct combat. First; what is the problem that this person creates for me? I have already done the research and study. I know the enemy that I am about to face. I know them as anyone else could. From the information that I acquire; I formulate what challenges they present. I arrange those threats in ascending order of concern. Priorities for my own abilities and shortcomings. It is not just a matter of how deadly my opponent can be, but also how effectively I can respond. Knowing the problem, couples well with my knowing my own limitations. It helps illuminate the proper course of action for someone like me to take. If they have speed, and I find myself wanting in such regard, then I have no choice but to neutralize that advantage. The same goes for all aspects; regardless of potency. Knowing what they plan to do is a good start, but far from enough. As a scientist, I beat problems at their own game. Working with them to undermine them. “Path of least resistance” mentality. Next to consider; how do they create problems for me? Knowing what a power is, only comes when you know how it works. The source. The process. The remnants. Everything. Such depth of understanding takes years to build, unfortunately.

Even for the person wielding their talents; they must spend time learning and perfecting them. Were it so easy to read their minds; then I would gladly do so. Since I cannot, I require an explanation. I get my answers through observation and simulation. Taking data I compiled through research; I run tests to closely duplicate the scenario I will be involved with. I use numbers as a guide; letting them instruct me on the years of practice and toil of my target. The numbers are always more telling than the soul. After that I ask, “Why should I be concerned?” Now that I have the information, the examples, and the simulation results...I compare them to myself. What can I do? How would it work? I consider all the possibilities of my actions, before the battle ever comes. If I cannot do this; then I have already lost. If I succeed in making this comparison and evaluation; then I can proceed. How would I stop it? I employ far more variety than my soldier counterparts. If I do not have a fitting solution; then I make one. I never worry about what my limits are. I just expand them. Such is the way all scientists should conduct themselves, as far as I am concerned. However, there is always one final question. One that lingers beyond success...rarely to be considered. What do I do if I stop them? Even if I manufacture a solution to my intended’s lethality, what then? Is neutralizing them enough to secure my survival? Should I be concerned with surprises? The truth is, science rarely offers an answer for surprises. Such moments require thinking on your feet. Good instincts, I suppose. I am fortunate. For I, unlike the rest of the world...can bottle quick wit and superior instincts. I just have to know what the problem is.”

Construct a Plan

”After figuring out the problem, whether it be power or surprise, I can move to my plan. “Simulations”, what I mentioned before, they are the precursor to this step. At first I run simulations of what could happen. I run them to determine what I want to happen. Changing variables as they progress; rather than waiting for results. Aiming towards specific goals and stepping points. For starters, I know I want to live. I know I would prefer my enemy to die. So what steps take me from where I am, to such a circumstance? The variables have all been included. I figure if I need to meet my opponent, or if they are the sort of soul I can trust to die in my absence. If I absolutely must encounter them; then I plan for it. I choose the best place to meet my rival. Where I can maximize my lethality; while also minimizing theirs. I seek places which give advantages to the prepared, but hinder the surprised. Private property is always a good bet. No one expects an attack at home. Even those who do prepare their homes, just give me more tools to use against them.

I weigh all the possible battlefield options; until I am certain I have found my desired locale. Then I turn onto the person themselves. Using what I have learned; I determine what aspects I have to neutralize first. What portions of their technique and method are their most reliable? What is their most fearsome? I prefer to leave their desired tactic untouched, if possible. If it is their most commonly used strategy; then by all means let them have it. I will know it by heart by then, and will welcome the familiarity. What I try to stop early; are their trump cards and scapegoats. I do not want them overwhelming me or fleeing early. Once I am sure on how I can limit their lethality; I work on my own responses to surprises and successes. Each time I gain an advantage; I want my plan to have a plan...one that pushes that advantage while it exists. I am not one for prolonged engagements, and want the struggle ended immediately. Not that I mind feisty quarry...I loathe them. I have more important things to be doing, than quelling resistance. Should all the pieces fall into place; then my simulations should reflect as such. Only after they have done so no less than 9x10^10 times; will I proceed. Better safe than sorry. And better safe 9x10^10, than just once."

Prepare the Materials

Quite possibly my favorite portion of preparation. Collecting the materials I will need to accomplish the kill. For me, it is similar to grocery shopping. Except I’m doing so on an empty stomach; when one's eyes are widened to the glorious possibilities. I can attest that I often get carried away in my procuring. I try to tell myself I do not need to deviate from the plan, or the list the plan came with. It is so hard to not do so. Fortunately. I am no fool, and I do not actually take anything I won’t need to the event. The excesses I buy in my heightened enthusiasm are stockpiled for later. Catalogued and ready for when I design my next glorious requisition. I believe it is fortuitous to have a...healthy appetite. To know what is useful at a glance, and to not be afraid to utilize it. Now. What exactly do I shop for when getting ready for the dirty work? All manners of things. I always start with nonperishables; so we can start there.

If my plan incorporates trap setting or any sort of machinery; I go about collecting the parts. These sorts of things will last until the day they are needed; so I gather them as soon as I can. Netting and rope. Scrap metal and alloys. Tubing, wiring, spare parts or electronic components. Anything that is going to take time to set up...but won't spoil on me before the fateful day. Next comes the support crew. Yes, crew. People are a resource as well. If I intend to make use of them; it will often be paramount to acquire them after the engineering supplies. That way, if I need something simple built, I can have laborers cover it for me. Though, I never trust sophisticated equipment provided by others. Mostly I do this for the joy of mocking the attempts of imbeciles, to do even menial labor. One has to find enjoyment in their work. Otherwise, what is the point? The human element is my biggest problem area. I have to herd them quickly, so as to confirm their suitability. Yet, I cannot hold onto bought loyalty forever. So I cannot hire them too far ahead. It's a delicate balancing act I always dread. Finally comes the perishables. This will always include the biological components: ingredients, culture samples, or crafted products of either. These sorts of things always function best when used quickly. Not given time to dull or diminish. Sometimes, due to the exceptional sensitivity of the wares, I have to gather and prepare them the day of my assault. It can be frustrating, I suppose. Getting messy is often it’s own reward; so I can’t really stay mad at the game."

Test and Redesign

"This portion of my battle strategy is more announcement, than study. My intentions are to showcase how well I have examined my problem, and how well I intend to answer it. By taking all the data I have collected thus far; I build a working model. Surely there are a few who wonder how I do this? How could I possibly build a model of the person I intend to kill? The answer is quite apparent; though none would consider it. I use clones. Not clones as in an entire person crafted from donor material. No, such would be an excessive waste of resources and time. Not to mention the degradation of the genetic material being split so many, many times. Many forget that when a full fledged clone is attempted; the source material has to be split and reformed for each new cell created. Now imagine how many cells go into a single body. The answer is literally in the trillions. Now think of those goofy cartoon fighting shows our youth seem to be bombarded with these days. There is always one fool with the ability to duplicate themselves. And...there is always a catch. The individual can either duplicate themselves only so many times, or each duplication is measurably weaker than the original. One man becoming four, translates to four mean of a quarter strength each. Pathetic. Now imagine if that individual were to make a trillion duplicates of themselves. Hysterically pathetic. So whenever I produce a clone, I limit my creation. I produce just one cell from fresh donor material. A new cell unaffected by the damages of over replication. I produce the peak example of what my foe's biology can be. Giving them every advantage they could possibly supply themselves. Then...I completely obliterate them.

That's right. Obliterate. Not hurt. Not weaken. Not kill. Total, unquestionable destruction. And not just once, either. Oh no. I find a method that works once; then I repeat it until it doesn't. I measure how frequently it might fail. How long it would take to guarantee failure. Then I improve it, and go in again. Once I have produced a method that is 99.999% accurate...I make a second method. I treat the second method the same. I repeat this two more times; until I have four individual scenarios with a 99.999% rate of success. I wish I could say I stop there, but I do not. I work to simplify the methods I use from the results I’ve obtained. I aim to reduce my workload to the barest of minimums; ensuring that I could perform all four of my plans without fear of exhaustion. Either of body, or resources. A human soldier would not leave for war without enough ammunition to kill all his enemies and himself. I would not presume to kill a man with insufficient poisons, germs, or strategies. It is only after I have compiled all my tests, redesigned and compiled their results again, that I move to the next phase. Training a monkey to do it. I find myself a patsy to carry out my plans. Someone easily manipulated, or very affordable. I have already gone through the pain of designing my strategy so anyone could use it...why pursue someone with redundant talents to carry it out? In fact, bleeders and weaklings often prove the most efficient of mules. In the end, I send the help to carry out my wishes. Call it a final measure of security. I could go myself...but why squander boundless skill on a talentless mission? Send another to deliver the bomb, and let the makers remain to design more. From there I wait to determine the success of my work. Eager to see if it fails...and if a new mystery awaits my discovery.”

Determine Success and Communicate the Results

"This is rather apparent. I wait to see if my work was successful. If it is; I make note in my logues for future recollection. If not; then I accept the challenge to which I have been presented. I record the fallacies in my previous data; blaming those who supplied it for their incompetence. Then I begin my exciting new work on how to identify and fix their blunders. I have to admit...sometimes it is more exciting to have my initial strategies fail. Ah, but when there is success, I am expected to share my findings. Such is the scientist’s vow. Such is the way that knowledge advances. I am more than happy to do so...to a point. I share what needs to be understood by the community. The general knowledge. What I keep to myself are my trade secrets. The finer points to my work which took hours, if not days, to formulate. The community can do it's own work to mimic me; if it is so inclined. From there things do become more...interesting. For if I have success; it is only success in one scenario. Only a single circumstance involving one target...or at most, a group of similar targets. That is not necessarily astounding. More like expectation. One would expect such results from a supremely specific scenario. Real contributions to science and discovery often stretch across all the fields and possibilities. Things such as the Laws of Gravity and Thermodynamics. The relativity of time and space. The exchanges and bonds between the molecules of periodic table. These are ideas and facts which do not change from case to case. Well...except relativity, but that is the point. Such discoveries came to define science in concrete ways. Or at least, concrete enough for us who study it to feel secure. I myself seek such concrete findings and outcomes for all my creations and theories. Whether they be in: biology, engineering, or manslaughter."

Zanpakutou Spirit Appearance:

{"Ikiki Ataenushi, Lord of Life"}

Inner World:

{"The Fertile Laboratory"}

Zanpakuto Release Names

Kisoku, Ikiki. Breathe Deep, Ikiki.

"Breathe Deep", the best possible words to describe the first moments of Ikiki's awakening.

Umu, Ikiki Ataenushi. - Give Birth, Ikiki Ataenushi.

“Give Birth”, with these words Mika does the spectacular, he allows Ikiki to do more than just live, but to grow.

Zanpakutou Appearances:

{"Ikiki the Unborn, Shikai Appearance"}

Once again; an opportunity arises for Mika to undercut the norm. To be as none would expect or guess. To see utility and purpose, where other's do not. When it comes to the topic of Zanpakuto; there are certain expectations which precede all facts. What does a Zanpakuto look like? Any academy student can answer this question. They are weapons. Most take the shape of swords; katanas of eastern design. Others may appear slightly altered, but their purpose remains. They are tools for war, conflict, and death. Now, as much as Mika loves death -and I do mean love- he is not in the business of brawling. Or battle for that matter. Mika is not a soldier. Mika is a scientist. A man of study. A man of learning. A man of comforts and fixations. So what good could he make of a brutish katana?

If a Zanpakuto is to be a pure representation of a soul; then Mika's should be something which reflects him. Would that exactly? What form do his desires and feelings manifest? It does not matter. For no matter what physical manifestation Ikiki might have taken on his conception; such a form did not last. Mika has shown his willingness...his affection for self modification. Would that not also fall onto his Zanpakuto? "If Ikiki was to be my Zanpakuto; then he would take the form I wanted of him. So I broke him down and rebuilt him. I recast the steel into a much more pleasant shape. I took away his edge, and made him hollow(hue, Vizard pun). Now I can use him to my full enjoyment; as a potent and quality pipe." Yes, a pipe. The kind used for smoking; either tobaccos or more frequently...opiates. "Am I sensing your disapproval?" Not at all. I say smoke more. Keep going till your heart stops. "What do you mean "till"? It does that all the time."

Ikiki is, as has been stated, a pipe. It is thin of body, and quite long. The diameter varies from the base to the mouth piece. Measuring anything from just a few millimeters; all the way to a couple of centimeters. The full length of the pipe measures exactly 60.9632cm. To the unfamiliar mind, this is just beyond the measure of 2ft by the standards of the west. The entire body of the pipe is formed from sturdy metal. After all, it was once a katana. The metal has been polished and treated well. It does not shimmer the usual silvery issue that other Zanpakuto seem to share. Instead, it's coloration is that of copper. When it moves or catches the light; it shines with both the hues of fiery orange and rich green. The material itself is neither of these colors; this is merely the coloration of it's reflective surfaces. When it comes to the design and form of the pipe; it is actually very intricate. "I like to believe myself a master craftsman. If I was going to create a piece of art; I will aspire for beauty and quality." See, I can't imagine what monstrosities you have said those same words too...as they crawl out of their test tubes. "Absurd. I would not waste time with such flatteries on another life form." Right, of course. How silly of me to consider you a supportive parent. So then, back to the design. The pipe's shaft is decorated with tiny little pores and a raised, intricate weave. It would appear to be intentional indentation; to provide raised edges for better grip. In actuality, it serves this purpose as well as being an ascetic choice. The "pores" one would see along the grip, are actually relief impressions of what Spirit Cells look like underneath a microscope scope. The time it took to create such a work of art, does deserve some credit.

"See, I..." No, this changes nothing. No matter how pretty you made the bulk of the pipe; the mouth is still disgusting. When I say mouth, I mean a literal mouth. Where the head of the pipe should be, the place where the kashima or opium would be placed, there is no typical bowl. Instead, there is the small, impressionist carving of a man. This figure is meant to represent Ikiki himself. While the pipe is dormant; it remains still and quiet. When Mika smokes; the figure begins to breathe. Actually breathe. Looking closely shows that Ikiki lips move through each inhale. The spirit's chest expands when taking in air, and compresses to exhale. There is even a pulse in it's carotid artery. With heat conjured onto his tongue; Ikiki's mouth, throat, and chest all begin to glow. The heat of burning leaves, shows through his very body. Every time Kurosawa takes a long drag; it is possible to hear the discomforted groans of another voice. This is the spirit within the pipe, irritated by the unnatural heat flowing through his body. As animated as the pipe is whilst being smoked; the performance is nothing when compared to Shikai. That is to be expected, is it not? Think of how spectacular other Zanpakuto appear, and they aren’t “living”.

Now, if you remember how Ikiki's Spirit Cells work...how disagreeable with flames they are...one might wonder how he smokes during Shikai. The answer? Heat without flames. The heat itself, comes from Ikiki's own body temperature. A Zanpakuto heart burns with Reiatsu and power, ergo, a helluva lot hotter than a typical soul. Thank goodness for the heat's dispersion through the length of cool metal between Mika's lips and the burning substances. So now you know the secret to Flameless Smoking. "Yes, because that is the most important aspect of my beautiful work. A pipe that doesn't need a flame." No, the most important aspect isn’t your work at all. It is Ikiki Ataenushi’s. What happens when this sleeping soul is commanded to wake, in full, is the real wonder. Bankai...a full release of life, that surpasses all inanimate creations.

{"Ikiki Aetenushi the Born - Bankai Form"}

The last thing we need to discuss is how Bankai forms and appears. What really happens when Mika speaks the appropriate words and expends the necessary Spirit Cells. In a flux of tremendous Pressure; the mass of cells that once surrounded Mika begin to grow. I mean really GROW. It will become increasingly apparent what Ikiki Ataenushi's power is as the description continues. The gigantic mass of Spirit Cells doesn't just shiver and expand, it takes a form. While some portions stretch up into the sky above; other sections shoot down toward the ground. Slamming into whatever surface Mika is standing on, the weight of the Cells causes the ground or floor to shatter. About the same time that Mika's green collection of Reishi breaks the ground and ceiling (assuming their is one), the pipe held to his lips will have dissolved and faded into the organic surroundings. Eaten. Consumed by it. What happens after the Shikai has been consumed? Well...it is much the same as when a tiny little gamete called sperm, implants into a suitable egg. LIFE HAPPENS. Suddenly, the huge formation of Spirit Cells takes on the aspects of life. It develops a body, a pulse, and breath. This isn't some near-life creation. Some spirit's best attempt at existence. No, Ikiki Ataenushi lives. Swelling into it's crux, Ikiki Ataenushi appears to be a behemoth ape. Resting on its clenched fists and knees, Ikiki Ataenushi is a robust and muscled visage. However, this is only the first glance. A second inspection shows that there are features as strange as Mika himself.

Let's start with his massive, open face. The forward of of his cranium appears as a broad, rather flat circle. In some respects; Ikiki strikes a similarity to owls. The face’s features are squashed, and unpronounced. Instead of a regular jawbone; there is a set of mandibles which mimic a chin. When Ikiki Ataenushi opens his maw; the chin will split and the the separate pieces will become more distinct. Each will drop lower; while also spreading further apart. Rather than have upper lips; Ikiki is like a fish from the more exotic freshwater locals around the world. there are no lips, and the upper portion is a series of overlapping plates. Inside the maw are many teeth...rows and rows of them. They descend far back into the beast’s throat, similar to a leech or annelid. Resting above the “lip plates” is “a nose”. Though it is used for breathing; Ikiki’s looks nothing of the sort. It appears a series of four, parallel gashes. When Ikiki Ataenushi breathes; these gill like vents open and contract. These gashes stretch upward to the base of the forehead. At their apex, the gills all combine into a singular, deeper gash. This superior gash being horizontal, and much broader. Now we move out to the eyes. There are magnificently golden orbs; which issue forth light into the world. The beams of their gaze can stretch a few kilometers away on clear evenings. Despite their illumination, Ikiki’s eyes do not always project such rays. No light escapes when his eyes are fully shut, of course, but not always when open either. There are times when the light recedes. This occurs when Ikiki closes his inner eyelids. That’s right, he has multiple pairs. Each pair made of glossy film that provides protection from irritants; while also shading the light his oculars produce. One pair turn the light a cool blue. Another pair make them bright green. One turns them purple, and yet another makes them a menacing red. The last pair present a mosaic of color; reflecting all forms of light which strike them. Each set of lids actually provide Ikiki with an alternative hue of the world. Each make it easier for the behemoth to see other, less vibrant colors. Ah...but as interesting as they are, the eyes behind them are more so. They are compound, multifaceted eyes...like a dragonfly. More unnerving, is that they seem to glide along the sides of his head.

Ikiki’s elongated cranium stretches back rather far from his face, and the eyes can travel all the way to the back. That’s right, he can look directly behind him. Not only can his vision extend 180°, but each eye can travel separately from it’s counterpart. It is much the same way an Iguana’s eyes behave, only far superior. But wait...it gets better. When one sees those large golden orbs darting around the sides of Ikiki’s head, they are actually seeing him focusing. That is Ikiki observing particular targets. So what, exactly, would it look like for him to broaden his horizons? How does he appear when looking at the big picture? To do this...Ikiki has to open his eyes. Completely. The further Ikiki Ataenushi opens his eyes, the further his lids split around the sides and back of the head. Oh yes, the eyelids are much larger than they might normally appear. So are the eyes. See, the truth is that...Ikiki doesn’t really shift his eyes all the back around his head. His eyes are so massive, they exist all the way to the back of his head. That comparison made to a dragonfly earlier was quite exact. Those large, rounded orbs that are normally seen, are actually Ikiki’s eyelids squinting. When he completely opens his eyes; enormous fields of golden sclera stretch completely around his head. Only a slim, sturdy piece of skull dividing them in the back. Pretty sick, huh? Just hold on, we have far more to go. Last is the forehead, starting at the top of thhe nasal slits. From what should be a smooth surface; horns begin to protrude in elongated shapes. They start at the center of the brow, and extend outward in a trident-like pattern. They increase in size with distance, and a never symmetrical. These horns continue upwards. they extend out along the upper edge of the eyelids. They form a massive ridge; which takes the shape of a mighty crown. This crown spreads all over the top of Ikiki Ataenushi's skull. There is a tall, central “fin” of bone shards. The centerpiece is surrounded by the circular perimeter that stretches along the edges of his cranial dome. Though the structures may be formed of bone, they sparkle like diamonds in sunlight. Rather than primarily calcium; these bones are webbed with lines of dense carbon. Oh yeah, f*cken diamonds. These internal, crossing structures give the bones far more structural integrity. After all, they need all the density they can get...to survive the impact of Ikiki’s headbutts. Now...what about the body that waits beneath?

Now we move onto the body. For the most part, the body is still very reminiscent of overly muscled man. Terry Crews, for sure. There are no genitals or other defining formations, but the body is exposed. There is webbing between the fingers and the toes. Each of the massive joints which support his huge body, are all doubled. His arms appear to have two elbows paired together, and the same goes for his knees on each leg. Even the shoulders and hips seem compounded, as if two limbs tried to grow from the same point. Rather than splitting apart, or one dying off, they fused into a doubly strong amalgamation. On each finger and each toe, a massive claw resides. each of these talons glistening with the same beauty as Ikiki’s crown. Down the spine; jutted ridges of spine erupt from a sea of massive, woven muscles. Finally the stomach. Large, rounded, and bloated...it seems full to burst. Inside, through layer and layer of flesh and sinew, luminous acids boil and cook. Ikiki’s digestion a most astounding marvel of molecular fusion. Now, what covers all of these interesting and unique bodily aspect? Yes, there is skin…it thick and scaly. Like an elephant crossed with a komodo dragon. On top of that; a thick, oozing placenta. The remnants of the womb Ikiki Ataenushi bursted from; the womb that known as Shikai. Everywhere they gooey slime drips. In some places it even begins to dry, turning flaking and brittle. In such areas, the placenta seems mossy or algae in nature. What is this nasty mess made of? Why Spirit Cells of course. Just like the rest of Ikiki Ataenushi; the dripping fluid is pure Spirit Cells. Now that the full figure of Ikiki Ataenushi is within sight...it's easy to measure his full size. It's...big. Like...biggity big. Kid’s Ego big. As tall as Kento is short. Longer than Kyo’s patience. Wider than Royce’s Mama. Thicker than Z’s fur. Stronger than Zou’s hangover. Fluffier than one of Pie’s posts. Freaking huuuuge. Colossal multiplied by rediculous. The cubic meters of Ikiki have reached something in the ballpark of 4227054.74, rounded. Let’s put some specifics on that. The bodies dimensions are: 357.239 meters/1172.04396 feet tall, 125.006 meters/ 410.124672 feet wide, and 94.656 meters/310.551181 feet in bulk. His shoe size is measured in football fields. So yeah, big enough to punch a city. A whole city. Godzilla© sized proportions; without copyright lawsuits. Still, talk about some HiDef clarity. No matter where Ikiki is, he seems to be in your living room. With this rather important detail; the physical description comes to an end. Bet you are wondering what this gargantuan does? Or...maybe you aren’t. I mean really, who cares what it “does”. Right? Like anyone needs their Godzilla© to DO stuff. Well, that will still be covered later.

Overall Ability:

"BioReishi"

Introduction -

Had the name not given it away already; Ikiki's manifestation deals with the creation of Biological Reishi. Now what does that mean exactly? “Biological Reishi”? It means; Ikiki has the power to convert all of Mika’s Reishi into living organisms. Living organisms made from unspent Reiatsu. These organisms take the form of microscopic, “blank” cells. Mika calls them “Spirit Cells”. The result of creating these Spirit Cells; Mika turns all his spiritual energy into usable, biological mass. At first glance, a very unaggressive power. No direct hostility or harm. However, a bearing of dread should loom. Versatility being Ikiki’s strength; rather than force or trickery. It is possible for the Spirit Cells to take effect, almost immediately. They could begin mending open wounds on either Mika or others who linger within their reach. With this observation; some might believe that such are the Release’s use. This would be folly. The reality is quite different, and exceedingly dangerous. Spirit Cells may be the initial product of Ikiki’s Release. Single-celled organisms; which are reminiscent of Stem Cells from the Human Realm. These blank cells might serve the purpose of healing, but their true power lies in creation. They await to receive commands. Talented, capable little souls that they are; Spirit Cells can accomplish many things. There are a multitude of commands they might understand; in their own language. Just as Stem Cells can be used to replace cells of any kind or occupation, so too can Spirit Cells. Unlike Stem Cells; Spirit Cells can meld into a Spiritual Being's existence. Any Spiritual Being. They know no barriers such as Race or Genealogy. They exists as Reishi; which is universal to all souls. To them; anatomy is the soul, and vice versa. They bond seamlessly; requiring only energy to perform the transplant. As well as, a viable inlet to provide them access to their target destination. Once access to a soul has be acquired; Spirit Cells can perform all sorts of wonders.

Such wonders are not limited to transforming into new cells. Spirit Cells need not always pretend to be Stem Cells. They can modify their physical makeup at the genetic level. They may become any form of cell deemed necessary. Becoming whatever they are instructed to be, and gaining all properties expected of their new forms. Spirit Cells can carry biological messages. Chemicals stored within them, or produced by them, that instruct nonSpirit Cells on what to do. They could encourage them to become tired, or to replicate and recover. This would be limited to purely cellular communication. This does not allow the puppetry of a mind, body, or even a single organ. Spirit Cells can simply carry a message of “tired”, and cause other cells they contact to behave “tiredly”. What does that mean? It means whatever those other cells might believe “tiredly” to mean. For most beings; it means the creation of Lactic Acids. Not all beings are the same, and sometimes messages can produce unexpected results. Fortunately, that is not where Spirit Cell variety ends. They can also be used as nourishment delivery; providing necessary biological materials to starving tissue. They themselves could even become said nourishment. They could even be used to transport unnatural additions. Medicines crafted in a lab; could be absorbed and carried by a collection of basic Spirit Cells. All of these tasks fall within the realm of simple “body cells”. Once again; Spirit Cells may not necessarily behave as body cells. They could become antibodies. Immunity. They could transform into nerve cells; providing heightened sensory information to whomever Mika intends. Able to become any sort of cell; Spirit Cells do not need to become Cells naturally within beings. They could act as rare bacteria instead; altering their genetics to mimic the actions of disease and infections. Adhering to or even attacking foreign bodies. Bodies even such as Mika’s. It would even be possible to make cancer from Spirit Cells. By commanding them to damage normal, replicating cells; Spirit Cells would create a faulty foreign cell. From there the cancerous cell would replicate on it’s own; without further input from Spirit Cell contact. Spirit Cells could even be used as carriers for foreign contaminants. Cells don’t always transport healthy cargo. It is just as easy for a virus or toxin to be absorbed by a Spirit Cells, as it is for medicine. What is possible relies on two factors; exposure and positioning. Mika exposes Spirit Cells to what he wishes them to carry, and then moves them into position. Once Mika can facilitate the exposure; the positioning relies on him. As a result, the difficulty is getting them inside another being's body. Especially if the target is an unwilling recipient. Spirit Cells can travel by many different avenues to reach their destination. This mobility relies dependant on their structure and composition. Mostly, it relies on Mika’s ingenuity.

Spiritual Pressure as Cells -

Spirit Cells are crafted from, and inspired by, Spiritual Particles. Spiritual Particles are essential, atomic building blocks; which make up all existence within the Spiritual Realms. They are the pieces that all things are made of; the compositional energy which Hollows and Quincys consume. Spiritual Particles are also the components which form Reiryoku, or Spiritual Pressure. Not only do they provide the immense mass of Gravity Pressure, but also form Reiatsu Reserves. The very same reserves that all Spiritual Beings draw upon for energy. In this way, Ikiki is fundamentally the same as all other Releases. Ikiki uses Reiatsu as energy to perform whatever feats it may; exactly the same as others. So what is the difference that all this reitteration is pushing towards? Ikiki doesn’t produce Spirit Cells. Instead, all of Mika’s unspent Reiatsu is converted into Spirit Cells. Unspent Reiatsu is the exact measurement of Spirit Cells, and is the measure of what more Mika can do. Already, this should provide some clues on the mechanics behind Spirit Cells. Whenever a Technique is used; Spirit Cells must be consumed like normal Reiatsu. While this is a really cool way of describing how biologically themed techniques require actual biological mass; it also serves as a great framework for how and how much Mika can use his Release’s abilities. When he is out of Reiatsu, unable to use techniques, he is also out of Spirit Cells. They are one in the same. Ikiki has done nothing more than provided more possibilities for the existing Reiatsu supply. Which is what Zanpakuto are fundamentally supposed to do.

One could suppose that Ikiki is the MOST fundamental Zanpakuto. While Spirit Cells are in play; they retain all traits of Reiatsu. Which are: the ability to be spent as Reiatsu; the ability to cause Cutback like Spiritual Pressure; the ability to be stolen or absorbed as Reiatsu*; to be sensed with either Energy Sensory(100+) or acute Senses(300+) skill; the ability to expand and contract as a Reiatsu aura might; and the quality that they are insubstantial. Insubstantial like unspent Reiatsu; the unseen field of energy which hovers around its host as Gravity Pressure. Not impeding them, or attacks made by, or attacks against them except in the case of Cutback. As Spirit Cells, they gain certain traits. Which are: being spent is interpreted as being consumed for the sake of flavor and effects; to respond and react as the biological mass they are imitating would(more later); to adhere to any surface possessing a Spiritual Pressure stat; remaining biological in nature when absorbed or stolen*; possessing traits to match their form so that sharp Senses(300+) might detect them; the inability to replicate or reproduce outside of Bankai(more later); chemical bonds between one another that force them to remain attached in one continuous body; the ability to communicate between one another for the purpose of sharing effects and alterations(more later); to communicate with other foreign cells during direct contact; the ability to alter their own genetic information; and the ability to reproduce in Bankai(more later). So how would Mika use his Spirit Cells? The applications are truly innumerable. How can one measure the full possibilities of raw life? First things first; Mika has to move his Spirit Cells into position.

Communication of Spirit Cells -

It was mentioned before, that the challenge with Spirit Cells lies with their mobility. Getting Spirit Cells where they will have the most effect is the prerogative. Doing so comes at a cost, but may be achieved through a myriad of ways. First and foremost; one must remember that Spirit Cells are both Spiritual Particles and living organisms. They share the properties of both. The perfect blend of energy and life. They can be moved the same as Spiritual Particles; through the body of Spiritual Pressure. The near invisible aura that surrounds all powerful Spiritual Beings. The aura that fluctuates both in size and shape, at the whim of it's master. With this naturally occurring aura; Mika can project and retract a "Communicable Field". Henceforth referred to as, “The Field”. The Field is an incubation chamber; in which Spirit Cells exist. This field can be detected with Energy Sensory(100+) or even well trained Senses(300+), giving off a faint green hint for the latter. The Field appears as a large, viscous body of oil or very fluid slime. Being dense and spiritual in nature; it is more easy to track than typical, airborne plagues. The overall size of the aura is equal to Mika's Reiatsu Reserves. The Field’s size is determined by Remaining Reiatsu; the total being used to measure the size in 1/100 meter scale. These meters must be distributed evenly to three values: height, width, and depth. Example: 1000 Reiatsu would mean 10 meters for distribution, or: 3.33m in height, 3.33m in width, 3.33m, in depth. The Field will always be considered a “rough cube or sphere”; shifting in surf texture and “topography”. It should be noted; The Field takes specific shapes or forms only when contained. Creating hands, weapons, or other intricate structures without containers is impossible. Most challenging; The Field does not move independently of Mika. It simply remains active, and fills space like a spreading liquid. The rate at which it travels is dependant on Mika. Wherever he goes; the aura travels with. Exactly the same as Spiritual Pressure. But how do they invade, exactly?

Spirit Cells are biomass. Living organisms with mannerisms akin to naturally occurring cellular structures. While they are comprised of Spirit Particles; they have gained all the utilities of actual cells. This means they behave as normal cells would. Bonding. Interacting. Communicating with other forms of life. Most importantly is their ability to bond with nonSpirit Cells. Regardless of what forms that life may take: somatic cells, germ cells, stem cells, bacteria, viruses, and any genome regardless of race or type. Spirit Cells can change themselves as needed; to consolidate a proper interaction and infection. They accomplish this with their Spiritual aspect. Anything that can be affected by Spiritual means, such as Reiatsu based abilities, can be affected by these organisms. It is the Reiatsu which bridges the gaps between Spiritual biologies. However, this means that nonSpiritual Beings cannot be affected by Spirit Cells. Lacking Spiritual Awareness or Reiatsu makes one an incompatible host for the likes of Spirit Cells. A Spiritual Pressure stat is required for Spirit Cells to adhere or affect a target. Without this minimum; Spirit Cells wash over them like dry water. They don’t even recognize the obstruction as “substantial”. This makes Spirit Cells ineffective against the Living; which is the intent.

Individuals possessing the necessary compatibility will find that Spirit Cells cling to them. This often goes unnoticed; as Spirit Cells are microscopic. There is no visual presence for most; nor will there ever be a presence of weight. The amount of cells which do cling to them, represent a loss of Reiatsu for Mika. The amount of Spirit Cells that can cling to an individual are represented by Reiatsu, and remain static: 50 Reiatsu for the head and limbs; 100 for the torso; 50 Reiatsu for an entire organ; 200 for an entire organ system(circulatory, respiratory, nervous, digestive). When an individual steps into The Field; Mika will instantly lose Reiatsu for each of their exposed portion. For clothed, unwounded beings; this would mean only what limbs are exposed. For unwounded beings, not wearing clothes; this would mean their full body. Wounded individuals have Spirit Cells invade what organs or organ systems are exposed by wounds or other means. On average; Mika will lose around 250-500 Reiatsu per occupant. Each of these costs half as much on small targets, or those under 100 lbs. Each of these costs compounds for larger targets. 500 lbs or more equals doubled costs; 1,000 lbs equals tripled costs; 10,000 lbs equals quadrupled costs; 500,000 lbs equals quintuple; 50,000,000 lbs equals sextuple costs. The larger the targets, the more challeng presented to Mika’s Spirit Cell reserve. Fortunately; these expenses do not tax Mika’s stamina. The Spirit Cells are simply acting on their own nature. The concern is for quantities. Several targets can drain Mika of Spirit Cells in an instant. So long as Mika has Reiatsu remaining, then these costs aren’t optional. Mika MUST deduct the Reiatsu whenever his Spirit Cells come into contact with a viable host. This must be repeated for all viable hosts within range. Once the appropriate cost has been paid; it does not have to do so again. Not until the infected area is cleansed of Spirit Cells, and may become infected once more. Either way; communication is very costly. The one advantage offered to Mika, is that he takes priority. If Mika chooses to spend Reiatsu as a cost would be deducted; Mika’s initiated effect would take precedence. Even with this favoritism; there are still flaws. Communication is imperfect; for there are ways to resist it. Not only are there resistances, but there are also conditions for infecting particular areas.

Starting with the external body, the: head, limbs, and torso. To infiltrate these areas, and the muscles and tissue in them, with Spirit Cells; Mika must create bleeding wounds. Next come individual organs. Depending on the intended organs, the process must change. To target the heart, lungs, or brain; Mika must have the Spirit Cells inhaled. To target the stomach or other digestive organs; Mika must have the Spirit Cells fully consumed. To target filter organs such as the lymph nodes, liver, kidneys, pancreas, etc; Mika must create two or more bleeding wounds on the body. After the infiltration requirements have been met; it takes 2 posts for effects to begin. Finally come entire Organ Systems. The processes for infiltrating these systems is the same as the individual organs within them. The difference? They take 2 extra posts, for a total of 4. Not only do Organ Systems require more time, but also constant exposure. For each of the 4 posts; Mika must repeat the infiltration requirements. This does not alter the cost; which remains four times the Reiatsu for singular targets(200 for standard sized targets). Now. What resistances are offered to those wishing to avoid infection? Well, those can be classified in three ways. Blood, Breath, and Bile.

To resist having the blood of an open wound being infected; an opponent’s Reiatsu Strength or Healing Expertise stats must exceed Mika's Healing Expertise stat. To resist becoming infected by inhalation; an opponent must have a higher Spiritual Pressure or Healing Expertise stats than Mika's Healing Expertise stat. To resist becoming infected by consumption; an opponent’s Strength or Healing Expertise stats must exceed Mika’s Healing Expertise stat. Now wait, why is there no mention of a combat stat? Why wouldn't Mika's Reiatsu Strength or Spiritual Pressure determine communicability of cells? Simple, that would be nonsensical. These cells are modified based off of Mika's knowledge of biology. The more effective his knowledge on biological processes, the more potent his biological attacks. These resistances apply to "BioReishi" compounds; unless otherwise specified within the compound’s effect. However, there are MORE ways to fight back the illness. After all, doctors have been combating sickness and cellular intermingling since the beginning of medicine. For starters, there is the ancient method of “keeping distance”. If Mika's Field cannot reach a subject, they cannot be infected. Other methods for protection include specialized apparel or gear. If the flesh cannot be reached directly by the Spirit Cells, they cannot affect the target in question. Protective garb would need to include ventilation or separate breathing apparatuses, as well. There are also environments which can inhibit the adhesion of Spirit Cells. Environments of heightened heat or dramatic cold can also ruin the cells; making them incapable of bonding or communicating with each other. Lastly, let us not forget, the countless medicines and products which exist to prevent infections. It does not take a scientist to buy preventive measures. Honestly. If someone was going to fight a doctor who specializes in “biological weapons”, wouldn’t they be expected to stock up on latex gloves and TheraFlu? Sheesh.

Once his Spirit Cells are inside an opponent; its time to party hard. With Spirit Cells plunged into his targets, Mika loses them as a resource. (I.E. The Cells are now inside another being, and can't be spent like the typical Reiatsu they still are.) Spirit Cells that have entered another's body, are also disconnected from the main accumulation. As such; those Cells can no longer be modified by Mika's serums. Whatever effects they had when they entered the foreign body, are the effects they keep. Though this is a tragic flaw; it is understandable when examined. Without direct contact to their brethren; there is no way for the used cells to receive enzymatic missives. However, considering they have already infiltrated behind enemy lin...veins, it is safe to assume they were already carrying the only effect they needed. So what happens if a successful infection is bought, and resistances fail? Well, those applicable are considered "infected" for the duration of Mika’s release. Whatever areas Mika may have caught with his Spirit Cells, being the only locations considered infected. Well now, what does this mean? It means that Mika can afflict infected portions of his opponent’s biology whenever he can establish contact. Not contact with his bare hands or Zanpakuto, but with his Reishi. The Field that was described earlier. The Field remains active so long as Mika’s Release has duration left AND Mika has unspent Reiatsu left. While positioned within the Field; anyone with “infected” biology can be subject to effects and techniques which utilize Spirit Cells. The Spirit Cells which makeup the Field surrounding Mika, act as a bridge for effects to cross from Mika to his foes. Now, even if an individual has become “infected”, they are still allotted resistances. If Mika attempts to affect them through the Spirit Cells that infect them, he must fulfill the requirements of the technique and resistances that were listed for initial infection. This allows opponent’s to use experience and strategy, to avoid being subject to more effects. To clarify; the status of “infected” does not go away if an opponent develops a method to improve resistances after the fact. While improved resistances might protect them from future attacks; such does not remove the infection they have already suffered. For an individual to be rid of the infection of Spirit Cells, they must follow

Spirit Cells used as Stem Cells -

Stem cells are the great creators. Blank, universal. These building blocks are to life, what atoms are to matter. It was this variety of cellular phenomenon that was mentioned most in BioReishi's introduction. The reason? Stem cells are the favored form for Spirit Cells to take. Becoming clay to build and shape the foundations of physical life. So, knowing that creation is the preference for Spirit Cells; what exactly can Spirit Cells create? The possibilities are awe inspiring. The reality is Mika. For you see, Mika determines the limitations of Spirit Cell manifestations. They can only perform by his command, and only become what he knows to make. Thankfully, Healing Expertise and appropriate Skills provide Mika with unparalleled knowledge of spiritual anatomy. Mika can order Spirit Cells to transform into any flesh that he has previously examined. Organs and limbs of Shinigami. Claws and bones of Hollows. Pores and Reishi glands of Quincies. Anything that could exist, and that Mika has dissected. A knowledge of what he is making; both in form and function. Not only that, but time and effort as well. Creating any of these, and more, is possible with adequate focus. It is best to think of it like Kidou Arts. While all Kidoists use their knowledge of incantations and Reishi to produce magic...Mika uses medical information and Reishi to produce body parts. It is as straightforward as it sounds. Still, Spirit Cells accomplish this task with minimal effort. Nothing more than a command, and a portional consumption of Spirit Cells for energy. Cost not only being the cells needed to manifest the desired stem cells, but the consumption of other cells for the energy needed to facilitate the transformation. A hefty cost. Why? For fairness. Whenever Mika wishes to manifest cellular creation(stem cells) from Spirit Cells; he must first infect a target. After infecting a target, Mika may produce new flesh at any location his Spirit Cells have successfully infected. Creating entirely new limbs, organs, or even organ systems requires the use of an actual technique(mentioned later). Smaller things are possible without a technique. Such creations are limited to creation which does not constitute a limb, organ, or organ systems. So what can be made are: skin grafts, muscle sinews, ossein bonding for bones, hair, teeth, etc. Whatever flesh that may come in sporadic or individual variants. Creating anything in this category requires the expense of more Spirit Cells. The cost would be equal to half the infection cost of whatever area(s) are being targeted. So if a limb takes 100 Reiatsu to infect, it would cost 50 Reiatsu to spread unwanted hair on that limb. Fair and simple, yes? So now that a cost is clear, what about duration? Surely it takes time for proper things to grow? Why, indeed it does.

Flesh(stem cells) made from Spirit Cells, immediately become whatever types of cells they are intended to be. The process of shifting from Spirit Cell to an eyeball somatic cell would never actually pass through a “stem cell phase”. Stem cells are simply what the Spirit Cells are comparable to. Rather than turn into a stem cell and then the somatic cell; there is an immediate skip to the final stage. This causes cellular construction to be fairly quick. Not High Speed Regeneration quick, but close. The advantage is that Mika can regenerate anyone, not just himself. Mika is also capable of rebuilding more vital components, given he has intimate knowledge of their structure. To be affected, the target needs to be either willing or infected with Spirit Cells. Modifying them under both of these circumstances requires only an expenditure of Spirit Cells. When they resist, Mika must meet the requirements expected of him during the first infection. Whatever stats or conditions had to be met then, must be fulfilled again. Success allows the creation to begin. Once started; the creation of entire limbs, organs, or organ systems requires whatever the technique specifies. Other adornments require only a full post to complete. Not too long, but possible to be interrupted. Now...why would their be any concern wit interruption or resistance? Healing and repairs should always be welcome, yes? Well...as Mika has proven time and time on himself; cells can be used to add things which don’t belong. Not to heal, but to create where nothing should have been created. Nerve endings that dangle outside of the skin; tender to the smallest forms of stimuli. Eyes on the back of the head; which provide additional perspectives AND burden the mind with an overabundance of stimulation. Producing teeth inside of the eyelids; an acid sputtering stomach on the neck; taste buds in the anus. Oh, there are such beautiful ways to rework the physical form. Such precious gifts to bestow. Tragic maladies to invent. Ah, but is this where raw biological mass draws its limits? No.

Spirit Cells used as Bacteria -

While it is no small leap of imagination to see Spirit Cells as Spiritual stem cells; there is an added difficulty in imagining them as bacteria. Both organisms are extremely similar, but common understanding differentiates them completely. Cells make up large, singular entities. People, animals, and plants. They are part of a body. They are tissue and flesh. Bacteria is often thought of like a grimy mess. It is a colony of disease and other nastiness which grows on dirty surfaces. As well as trash, dead things, and buttholes. Many understand that bacteria is a classification of living organisms; we simply do not imagine them as such. Well, Spirit Cells see the similarities. They are far less judgmental and prudent of what a bacterium may be. With their unbiased perspective; Spirit Cells can easily alter themselves to behave as bacteria. It is nothing more than an attitude adjustment for them. Playing a role. They accomplish this with their most pertinent ability; the transforming of their genomes. By shifting their endless array of genetic coding; Stem Cells can turn themselves into any form of bacteria or protists. Facilitating chemical exchanges within their bodies to reformat their molecular structure. Growing flanges at their edges. Sprouting cilia across their membranes. By doing some, or all of these things, Spirit Cells can become any bacteria which Mika has extensive knowledge of. The knowledge must be of both form and function. Once more the method is no different from a Kidoist sawing a woman in half. Just like Kido; know-how isn't enough to make the effect instant. It takes a moment for the Spirit Cells to receive their message. Once again, not quite as fast as High Speed Regeneration. Once again, more versatile and inclusive. Though there is one new benefit. There is no need for a target to be previously "infected" for bacteria to attack. Were a previously uninfected subject to enter Mika's Field while the Spirit Cells are bacteria; then the first infection would be enough to apply the bacterial effects. Good news is, such subjects still receive the resistances and conditions for infection as before.

So, what can these newly formed bacteria do? Again, the common man would think this a tactic of illness. In many ways it is, but in many more it is not. The most rudimentary use of bacteria is illness. This is the function of the most notable bacteria in the world. Illnesses can take many forms and behave in countless ways. So can illnesses made of Spirit Cells. A person can become fatigued by the bacterial burden being filtered out of their blood. Given fevers and cold sweats as the body works to fight infestation. Specific, organs or entire organ systems, can be handicapped by more severe varieties of bacterial occupancy. Infections in both open wounds and internal systems can also lead to dying flesh. However, such levels of damage require vast amounts of time and bacteria to work. The immune system and filter organs work hard to equally distribute the work of cleaning up. A full body infection is not typically required for effectiveness. What is; however, is at least two organ systems. With that much conquered by bacteria; the body would be too weak to fight off the symptoms and effects. Such a thing is costly, 200 Reiatsu and requiring at least 3 posts of combat per system. Not very choice for a budget killer. That said. There is a secret to bacteria. A secret that keeps with the common misconceptions of the marvelous bodies. So, spoilers...it is far easier to heal than harm with bacteria. I can hear it now. "Naaah, bacterias are the bad guys." That they can be, but like all hired killers...they can serve good. What many often forget is the crucial balance of bacteria within a healthy body. It is the imbalance of bacteria that causes illness, infection. Mika can regulate the balance of bacteria; much more easily than introducing hostile ones. Doing so costs only what is needed to infect target area; whether it be organs or limbs. With balancing bacteria; Mika can quickly eradicate all the foreign, excessive occupants. Ridding his target of deadly infections, bacterial toxins, or even diseases. Essentially, choking out the unwanted attendants. This charity may cause pain or fevers, but rewards appropriately. Willing targets experience very mild symptoms. This is the result of Mika's unhindered focus. Enemies who resist his treatment, once again, are offered the same resistances that impede typical Spirit Cell infection. In addition to resistances; unwilling patients experience much more noticeable symptoms. Punishment for distracting Mika from his work. Fever, muscle aches, chills, and even lightheadedness are all possible. It all depends on the area being treated. Anyways, it is always a benefit to just let a doctor do his work. Not to mention, such medicinal treatments offer his patients whatever surprises his bacterial Spirit Cells might be carrying. More on that later...

Spirit Cells used as Antibodies -

Spirit Cells are flexible. Eager to switch aisles whenever the moment suits them best. Were they politicians; they would be the envy of their colleagues. Just as Spirit Cells can alter their code to become any kind of cell, even bacterial, so can they become antibodies. White blood cells bred for the purpose of cleansing their host of all sorts of maladies. A much more aggressive approach than crowding out bad inhabitants with specialized bacteria. Surgical cells; guided by chemical precision and hate. Antibodies made from Spirit Cells seek and destroy abnormalities they find within their host. They can find threats which linger within a body, and eliminate them. Rather than overcrowd the enemy out; antibodies would use chemical tools to dissect and digest them. Like I said, muuuch more aggressive. So what makes them different from the application of bacteria? WELL Spirit Cells are superior to typical cells, and so to are they superior to typical antibodies. Rather than target only bacterial and viral diseases; this antibodies chemically sense any dysfunctional occupant...and blast the living crap out of it. With Reiatsu. Like tiny, spiritual scalpels. With lasers. This means they can do away with cancer, as well as sickle cells. When it comes to using the antibodies, there are more circumstances which must be met. Though turning Spirit Cells into antibodies is no great challenge, happening as quickly as any other transformation; their use is what proves difficult. It begins with their communication into the target. Much the same as Stem Cells before, antibodies would need significant numbers to be of use. Once more; 100 Reiatsu for the head and limbs; 200 for the torso; 100 Reiatsu for an entire organ; 200 for an entire organ system. A completely inhabited body part can be wiped clean of all disease and malady. Even degenerate morphisms such as cancer can be plucked out. Doing so causes all of the antibodies to be consumed and destroyed after a single post of exposure. This is beneficial, given that consecutive exposure would result in damage to that specific region or organ. Ah...but there is a vicious reality to keep in mind. The nature of all predators.

An over abundance is often more harmful than good. Though the use of antibodies could save a life dying of disease; it's reckless use would kill someone much more painfully than their illness ever could. It is possible for these antibodies to turn on their host. Starting with the beneficial bacteria, then damaged or malformed cells; antibodies eventually work their way to killing healthy cells. They interpret all cells as threats through a constantly narrowing view of "targets". Malformed cells share genetic identities with healthy ones; so the antibodies eventually grow accustomed to killing such organisms off. Being helpful, overly so, can be harmful. It is possible to cause this damage intentionally, but with great cost. Mika would need to invade the targeted area with antibodies; paying the typical Reiatsu to do so. If successful, he would have to pay the cost an additional time over. Meaning an additional: 50 Reiatsu(100 total) for the head and limbs; 100 Reiatsu(200 total) for the torso; 50 Reiatsu(100 total) for an entire organ; 100 Reiatsu(200 total) for an entire organ system. By doing this, Mika's antibodies could damage the intended flesh severely. There would be bleeding and great pain, but the wounds would not be fatal. Instead they would hamper the effectiveness without killing. Damage to the brain would cause loss of focus, and then induce sleep. Damaged lungs would reduce breathing efficiency, but so would damage to the esophagus. Damaged hearts would cause numbness to radiate through the body. Damage to the stomach or intestines would result in extreme pain; leading to vomiting or painfully voided bowels. Damage to muscle groups would result in failing to perform physical feats. Damaged muscles would also be less capable of resisting future damage. Damage Damage caused by antibodies requires time to take effect. To achieve this 2nd category of damage; 2 posts must pass. During the first post; pain will indicate that the antibodies are attacking. Beyond that is yet another degree of severity. If the the original cost is paid three times; meaning an additional: 50 Reiatsu(150 total) for the head and limbs; 100 Reiatsu(300 total) for the torso; 50 Reiatsu(150 total) for an entire organ; 100 Reiatsu(300 total) for an entire organ system, then those areas can be rendered useless. For limbs, this means their total loss. For the torso, this means crippling of all muscle groups. For the head, one is placed in a catatonic state. For organs, this means a slow but certain death if not treated. For entire organ systems, this means a sudden, excruciating death. Once again, this level of destruction takes time. To achieve this 3rd category of damage; 3 posts must pass. During the first post; pain will indicate that the antibodies are attacking. During the second post; the affected area will become useless, but still able to be healed. However, as typical white blood cells are very caustic and require high amounts of energy, so do spiritual ones. While Spirit Cells are behaving as antibodies; Mika's Reiatsu consumes itself at twice the normal rate. This will be covered in more depth in drawbacks.

Spirit Cells used as Poison -

Poison. Though this term will be used frequently; it is insufficient. Spirit Cells do not simply become poison, they become poisonous. They do so through a natural modification of their genetic material. A modification which shortens the protein chains that constructs their bodies. These new, shortened forms are toxic nonSpirit Cells. They are manufactured to be like the venoms found in poisonous animals. Even though "poison" will used to describe it; they are actually modified protein compounds. Protein compounds near identical to cells, simply half formed. Quite similar to how cancer appears when compared to the cells it formed from. With that cleared up; let’s begin. Poisons were the first smart weapons ever produced by nature. The foundation for mankind's quest for biological weapons. With the amazing ability to mimic life; Spirit Cells are no less limited than the immensity of nature itself. If nature can produce biological tools, so can Spirit Cells. How is this achieved? How's do Spirit Cells go from basic cells, to useful toxins? The answer is in the proteins. More specifically, in the manner that proteins form and combine when transformed. It is not so easy as rearranging the genome. Creating poison requires the transformation to continue outward from the nucleus. The cells must rebuild themselves from the inside out. This is not some alchemical feat of lead to gold. Their composition remains biologically, and molecularly identical. Spirit Cells simply alter the structure in which they are arranged. By shortening the protein chains which are built by the Spirit Cells' nuclei, each cell converts into a protein compound that acts as a toxin. This creates the spiritual equivalent of alkaloids. Alkaloids are naturally occurring compounds which are often poisonous, and frequently deadly. While altered into these protein chains; Spirit Cells cannot perform typical cellular functions. Spirit Cells acting as poison lose the following traits: the ability to carry nutrients; the ability to communicate with nonSpirit Cells; and the ability to transform into any form other than “blank” Spirit Cells. They must be transformed back to “blank” Spirit Cells to reacquire such capacities. However, with such loss comes tremendous gains. Acting like alkaloid poisons, Spirit Cells can accomplish an outlandish array of tasks. Pain, swelling, lowered heart rate, increased heart rate, hallucinations, allergic reactions, drowsiness, numbness, paralysis, and even death. This only names a few of the possible effects of these modified protein chains. Individual effects are based off two factors; what form Mika gives his “poisonous cells”, and what pre-existing conditions his opponent might have(allergies and genealogical morphisms). With such a deadly, diverse pool of possibilities; there come additional conditions and costs.

On top of the increased cost; transforming to poison takes an entire post to complete. The set Speed stat used for other transformations does not apply. In addition; Mika must have detailed knowledge of the form and function of the poison intended for transformation. Poisons that are created must not differ from the alkaloid group in structure. This formation of toxin is the only type which Spirit Cells can accurately imitate. There are also conditions for how “poisonous” Spirit Cells may infect a target. While the costs for infection remain the same as “blank” Spirit Cells; there are alterations to the conditions they must meet. For poisonous Spirit Cells to effectively infect a target; an entire organ system must become infected. This organ system cannot be the filter system(Lymph nodes, liver, kidneys, pancreas, etc). If an entire organ system can become infected, then the target will become subject to whatever effects the poison carries. All the resistances which prevent Mika from infecting an organ system prevent him from poisoning it; the same as normal Spirit Cells. In addition to the resistances already opposed to Spirit Cells; “poisonous” Spirit Cells must contend with the Poison Resistance Skill. For each point in Poison Resistance; Mika must successfully infect a targeted area an additional time. Meaning...with a Poison Resistance Skill of 3; Mika would have to infect and organ system 4 times for the poison to work. This would require no less than 4 posts and 400 Reiatsu; assuming Mika was able to overwhelm the usual resistances at all. This makes infecting a target quite challenging. While taking longer to manifest and infect the opponents; poisons also possess phenotypic drawbacks. Once formed; poisonous Spirit Cells change in hue from the normal green. They now shimmer with anything from a faint blue, to a grungy purple color. While this is not a very informative change; it is sufficient warning that something is different than before. Transforming poisonous Spirit Cells into anything else requires a larger expenditure than normal. Converting Alkaloids into Spirit Cells costs twice as much Reiatsu; 200 instead of 100 when converting back to normal. Converting Ikiki Ataenushi back into his body from poisonous Spirit Cells, costs twice as much as Bankai. This is to accommodate the lengthening of protein chains that facilitate healthy cell production. This expense results in the Spirit Cells being restored to typical cellular functionality. But...not all poisons are were born by design. Some are created through accident.

Cells are often considered for the jobs they can and should do. Heart cells are expected to create an organ which can keep blood pumping through the body of it's host. Liver cells expected to build a dependable filter. Brain cells, a supercomputer. Red blood cells should carry oxygen. White blood cells should destroy abnormalities. Fat cells should store energy. Everything has a job. A talent. None of these traits represent the limitations of those cells. As disease and viruses often teach; cells can be patsies for much more terrible purposes. Spirit Cells are spiritual mimics of life, and as such, even mimic the flaws of organisms. That is what makes it possible to poison a target with these cells. The first and most dependable way to do this, is to take advantage of individual cells' limited capacity for filtration. While cells produce wastes that must be isolated and rejected at all times; they often find it hard to take on any extra burden. Burdens that can come in many forms. An accumulation of waste. An overabundance of excess resources. Exposure to harmful substances, such as radiation or toxic chemicals. Whatever the method of introduction, the result is an unhealthy cell. Not a dead cell, an unhealthy one. Lively enough to keep functioning. To seek out other cells, and share it's disability. Invading a body of similar organisms; depositing its troubles into them. Now, if it is just one afflicted cell, then the rest can easily shoulder it. If it is trillions...the story changes. This brings us to the second form of poison that Spirit Cells can employ. As living organisms; Spirit Cells can collect harmful residues from the world. Radiation. Mercury. Even an excess of water. They can collect these threats, and deposit them into a target. While this can be a deadly offensive, it is quite costly. To be successful, Mika must locate a suitable source of malicious materials in his surroundings. Then he must have the Spirit Cells absorb such pollutants, before infecting his target. However, this does not work as easily as typical infections. In order for acquired maladies to take effect like this; Mika must infect the same location twice. This requires a second attempt to infect, and an additional cost of Reiatsu. Effectively double the cost of the usual communication. Though more expensive, this environmental poisoning can often prove a trump card. It does not behave as common “poison”, and instead acts as a flood. Using excessive materials; Mika “poisons” the body with more than it can process. Exactly the same as over consuming necessary vitamins. This works differently from normal poison, in that antibodies are not programmed to resist it. Under these circumstances, the Poison Resist Skill does not apply to resistances.

Spirit Cells used as Antidotes -

Antidotes are often presented as chemical compounds designed to rid the body of toxins or harmful excesses of solutes. Antidotes are frequently generalized with antivenoms; while the two are completely different. Antivenoms are antibodies, harvested from an animal that was infected with a controlled amount of venom. Antivenoms are the same as vaccines. When used as Antidotes; Spirit Cells do not undergo a transformation. This is because of the types of toxins they intend to alleviate. Spirit Cells used as antidotes are intended to treat poisons which have no antidote. Now, that sounds rather paradoxical doesn’t it? While it may be a paradox; Spirit Cells are flawless in their execution of such logic defiance. They do so by breaking the rules, and fighting poisons on unfair terms. Rather than counteracting the harmful components of a poison, Spirit Cells accept it. The Spirit Cells do not build resistance towards the contaminant. Instead they create a chemical sympathy with it. This allows the Spirit Cells to accept the poisons composition faster and more easily than nonSpirit Cells; which are trying to fight them off. Essentially, this turns all of the Spirit Cells into chemical sponges. Wherever they encounter the poison within the body, they soak it up. If the poison is extremely volatile; then it will kill off the Spirit Cells. if it is less volatile, and more debilitating; then it will go dormant within the Spirit Cells. If forced to dormancy by their toxic payload, Spirit Cells will eventually be passed out of the body as waste. In much the same was as with bacterial equilibrium; Spirit Cells behaving as antidotes merely restore a chemical balance within their host. However; there are still requirements and limitations for this miracle to work. Depending on the toxin being addressed; Spirit Cells will have to enter the body in particular ways, as well as exceed their targets in effectiveness.

When determining how a spiritual antidote must enter an afflicted body; Mika need only mimic the method the poison used. If the poison was introduced through the blood, then the Spirit Cells must be introduced the same way. This process is duplicated for both inhaled and consumed toxins. If poisons inhabit certain areas of the body to complete their effects, then so too must the spiritual antidote inhabit that area. These areas and how they must become infected are the same as with: Stem Cells, bacteria, and antibodies. The list remains: limbs, torso, head, organs, and organ systems. There are no additional costs for this infection to occur. The success of antidotes vs poisons is based of Spiritual stats, as Spirit Cells are spiritually powered. If the contamination is not connected with a technique or release; then Mika automatically succeeds. This is because Mika’s Spiritual stats far exceeds that of naturally occurring toxins and bacteria. Poisons created by a Release must be beaten in regards to their superior Spiritual stat vs Mika’s own superior Spiritual stat. If the poison is the product of a technique(”BioReishi” or otherwise); then Mika’s superior Spiritual stat must exceed that of the user of the technique. However, there can be additional costs in regards to the poison which must be counter acted. If Mika’s Spiritual stat does not exceed the opponents in any regard; then Mika can pay additional Reiatsu equal to the difference of their Spiritual stats to overcome this drawback. Doing this causes not only sever pain, but damages whatever portion of the body is infected by poison. The first time this is done, the damage is nonlethal but requires medical attention and healing. If Mika is forced to do this more than once in the same location; the the damage becomes either lethal to the tissue in that area or to the target, in cases of vital organs. Such is the cost of having outrageous amounts of Spirit cells forced into one location on the body. After all, that is what “paying extra Reiatsu” is with Spirit Cells...it is the forcing of cellular mass into a specific region.

Spirit Cells used as Fat Cells -

"Fat", not a typical word to be found in the annals of great battles. In this discussion, it is hard to imagine a practical use for fat formed of Spirit Cells. Maybe at first, anyways. So turn the mind towards nature; instead of ghostly conflicts. Think for a moment on the uses of fat within the battlegrounds of survival. Such cells are the means by which energy might be conserved. Preserved. Like vaults, deep wells of energy and potential might be stashed within their saturated structures. It is this facet that allows the hosts of such cells to survive where they might not. Long winters and famine endured; by making use of recycled excess. These moments of cellular cannibalism are quite an ingenious adaptation. It is only prudent that Spirit Cells would developed in a mutual way. That they be given means to stockpile energy, for safekeeping. As such, Spirit Cells can be used to craft thick layers of fat into any living being able to support them. These fatty additions of flesh can often be weighty, but they provide numerous boons to repay for any inconvenience. The fat reserves may be used to sustain oneself when hungry; lasting longer than the Release which manifests them. This new layer of proteins can also be used as insulation; keeping one warm in less favorable environments. These are but nature's mechanical purposes, and do not account for all the uses of creative man. One such example would be the alteration of physical appearance. Better than a mask or shadowed hood is a new face far more plump than what is expected. What could be better than hiding in open, disarming chubbiness? A creative mind can do many wondrous things with fat on demand...especially when the core of that stacked energy is composed of Spirit Particles.

The most important thing to understand about Spirit Cells as fat, or fat cells within a spiritual being at all, is the potential energy. Fat is pure energy. By sacrificing a rather allegorical "pound of flesh"; Mika can regain a sudden infusion of Reiatsu. Sacrificing flesh for power is the true exchange of nature. The giving and taking of fat cells may also involve other targets besides Mika. It is possible for Kurosawa to donate fat onto the bodies of other people who are connected with his "Communication Field". There are limits; however, on when such donations can be made. The circumstances for "infecting" a target with “fat” Spirit Cells is exactly the same as infecting a limb. Mika must first create bleeding wounds on his intended target in the area(s) he wishes to alter. From there the cost to create fat cells is far different than the normal infection. Rather than pay a cost to activate the effect; Mika pours Reiatsu into the opponent. Whatever amount of reiatsu he pours determines the amount of fat cells he creates. There is no maximum limit to what can be donated, and Kurosawa is only restricted by his own Reiatsu reserve. However; fat cells can only be donated if Mika's superior Spiritual stat exceeds his target's Strength and Reiatsu Strength stats. If not, than the alteration may be resisted. Which is good, as fat can be quite troubling. Seeing as Mika is the only one to recall the new fatty cells in the form of harmless Reiatsu; targets gifted “fat” Spirit Cells are unable to spend them as Reiatsu. So, the target could be left with the extra weight for quite a while. Taking back the fat cells requires a target to be willing, and would cause them considerable pain. Ah, but just how much is a patient going to receive during donations? Each 10 points of Reiatsu spent by Mika, becomes 5lb of flesh. Now imagine if a 1000 points were donated. Imagine suddenly gaining 500 pounds. A hefty sum, indeed. Just remember...there is nothing that exercise cannot fix.

Spirit Cells used as Somatic Cells -

This portion covers a very specific use of Spirit Cells; one only possible in Bankai. It is the function which promotes and facilitates the creation of Ikiki Ataenushi. Starting from the the release of Bankai; Spirit Cells quickly begin to coalesce into a massive, dense body. This body is much like the initial blob that acted as the Communicable Field, except now it can have specific shape. Shape such as hands. In fact; it can have two hands...and feet...sh*t, even a head and a tail. In Bankai; the "Communicable Field" is replaced by a “Communicable Individual”. A patient zero, if you will. Ikiki Ataenushi's entire body is formed from Mika's former weapon. With this comes many benefits, and just as many weaknesses. Now that Ikiki Ataenushi has a body of his own, it is much more difficult to transform the genome of his Spirit Cells. Were Mika to try and change the Spirit Cells; Ikiki would have to change as well. Turning them into antibodies or bacteria, would mean they are no longer the Somatic Cells that are needed for Ikiki to have a body. In a very literal way; Mika has to pay in arms and legs to achieve the typical transformations. At such time, Ikiki Ataenushi would be the one to sacrifice the necessary flesh. Except “pounds” would now be many, many, many tons. Already one can see the difficulties beginning to take shape. So, how much does it cost to achieve such exchanges? How long does it take? The energy cost is 200 Reiatsu; while the physical cost is the dismissal of Ikiki Ataenushi's massive body. The entire figure dissolves into an immense cloud of Spirit Cells. A new Field that is now the size of Ikiki Ataenushi's body. After transforming the Somatic Cells into a new role; they will remain as such until commanded to reform into the body once again. Doing so costs the same as activating Bankai, whatever that might cost Mika at the time(200-400). These costs can be hefty, but with them comes an advantage. The rate at which Ikiki Ataenushi transforms it’s composition is equal to the rate in Shikai. Feel the horror yet? Maybe you will when reminded that such a Speed is 2000. That is right; that massive body can shift form in the blink of an eye. F*cking dreadful, huh?

So far it sounds like Somatic Cells are a give and take. They force Mika to spend more Reiatsu than normal, just to use them as he had before. Well...the benefits of Bankai turning all the Spirit Cells into Somatic Cells, is that they create the colossal monster that Ikiki Ataenushi really is. The strength and endurance of such a large being is power in and of itself. But is there more to that body than size and might? Though they may be locked into the identity of Somatic Cells while forming Ikiki Ataenushi, the Spirit Cells still retain their traits. They can still be commanded by Mika. Even better, they are still cells. They act and behave like a normal living being. This makes them a massive reservoir of material for Mika. Where before Mika had to move himself and create the right conditions for his Field to infect targets; Ikiki Ataenushi's new body can create those conditions by itself. It is a beast; capable of inflicting: wounds, fatigue, and stress. This body can push opponent's into unfavorable circumstances; which renders them incapable of fighting the afflictions that Mika spreads. Even more frightening; Ikiki Ataenushi's body can be used as the carrier for those afflictions. Like a animal plagued with rabies, Ikiki Ataenushi can simultaneously create injury and infection. The Bankai's body can be filled with a variety of diseases and toxins; all to be distributed as it fights. With such a potent and deadly capability; there comes a catch. Whatever Ikiki Ataenushi is infected with, also affects him the same as any living creature. Thusly...the more dangerous the weapon given Ikiki Ataenushi, the more likely he is to harm himself with it. Truly the same as giving matches to a child. A most fitting crux; considering how childish the master behind the brute can be. Just what sort of harm could Ikiki Ataenushi inflict on himself, might be a query? Here’s an example. Were a disease like Tuberculosis given to the Zanpakuto; then Ikiki Ataenushi infect any his blood touches with it. However, Ikiki’s lungs would fill with blood just as quickly as those of his prey. A truer double-edged sword could not be produce. Luckily...Ikiki knows a really good doctor.

Spirit Cells used as Germ Cells -

In the majority of complex organisms are many classifications of cells. When generalized to the greatest extents, one separation always remains. For Ikiki Ataenushi, the situation is no different. The Bankai's form is capable of producing two distinct cellular families. One of them being Somatic Cells; responsible for the Bankai's body. The others being Germ Cells; responsible for the reproduction of Ikiki Ataenushi's genetic material. Now I imagined there are some confused, or possibly worried faces. Questions like, “Is that gargantuan going to try and breed with me?” As many could imagine, such an act would be impossible in the traditional, physical venue. Well...not impossible, just not successful. However, that does not change the fact that Ikiki Ataenushi can produce gametes for reproduction. Except such a task is accomplished much, much differently for the likes of a Zanpakuto Spirit. What really occurs is a physical exchange, but one not requiring the intercourse of genitalia. Ikiki doesn’t even have the bits necessary. Instead, the parents in this equation are far more numerous and dispersed. The sources of parental genes are the Germ Cells released by Ikiki Ataenushi, and typical Spiritual Particles within other Spiritual Beings. Through the interaction of these two components, new life is created. Life with outrageous possibilities for those involved.

The Germ Cells are released constantly from Ikiki Ataenushi's entire body. This is a direct duplication of how the Spirit Cells behaved in Shikai. Just as there was a blob of Spirit Cells clinging to Mika, so too is there a field of Germ Cells clinging to Ikiki Ataenushi. Exactly like an aura. These Germ Cells are constantly spewed and constantly interacting with latent Spiritual Particles. The product of this merger of parental components; basic Spirit Cells. essentially, any spiritual being which comes within Ikiki Ataenushi’s aura is considered impregnated by Germ Cells. As such, their entire anatomy is converted to Spirit Cells. No. Many of you are imagining the worse. “Mika can manipulate them like they were his own power? He can do whatever he wants with their bodies. He could make them bacteria.” No, no, nononono. None of that is possible. They may be made of Spirit Cells, but their Reiatsu is still THEIR Reiatsu. All the resistances that normally impeded Mika’s attempts to manipulate them still exist. All the rules and conditions that prevent him from infecting them still apply. So...what the heck does it mean to be made of Spirit Cells? Well, firstly it means that they are now as creepy and weird as Mika. After all, they are both made of the same “stuff”. Bleck. However, there is a mechanical consequence as well. While no one can have the same mastery of Spirit Cells that Mika has attained through training; beings comprised of Spirit Cells can still employ marginal control. By spending Reiatsu, flooding their energy into their body, they can trigger the natural abilities of Spirit Cells. Healing. While comprised of Spirit Cells; any individual may spend Reiatsu to recover from physical harm. Anyone may pay: 200 Reiatsu to restore any limb; 400 Reiatsu to restore the torso; 200 Reiatsu to restore any organ; and 400 to restore any organ system. The speed of regeneration is the same as transformations in Shikai and Bankai; a set Speed of 2000. In addition to mending wounds or scarred tissues; activating Spirit Cells can also achieve other effects. It is possible for activated Spirit Cells to function as antibodies and antidotes. Antibodies will eliminate any biological threats within the activated region if the user’s superior Spiritual stat exceeds the threat’s superior Spiritual stat. Antidotes will remove pollutants within the activated region if the user’s superior Spiritual stat exceeds the threat’s superior Spiritual stat. Following impregnation; it is possible for most Spiritual Beings to combat the forces of death and decay with little more than their energy and willpower. Quite a lovely gift for Ikiki Ataenushi to bestow on his lovers. Almost makes one willing to “bed the behemoth”. Mika’s gonna mock them for it though, considering his own anatomy cannot be affected by Ikiki’s Germ Cells. Identical genetics can’t combine, after all.

Cellular Consumption -

Spirit Cells are living organisms. Existing as life would, and at the same costs. If anything is taken away from this description, let it please be that fact. They act and behave just as normal cells would, with minor additions. With all the many diverse advantages this may provide, there are also disadvantages. Namely, the one disadvantage that faces all living beings. Hunger. Yes, Spirit Cells require sustenance to survive. Nutrients. Where do cells made of Reiatsu, that crave Reiatsu, get their food? Why themselves, of course. Thus they bond well to one another in a constant feeding frenzy. Clinging to one another; tearing their siblings apart for resources in a brutal display of fratricide. As they fight to consume one another, they will push through the forces of nature to stick and remain bonded. Whenever an attempt to push them apart comes, in the form of spiritual methods, they simply waft around it like neutral Spiritual Particles do. Much like a Kido passing through the spiritually dense air of the Seireitei without harming or inciting the uninvolved particles it moves through. The cellular mass is ambivalent to outside stresses, except in causing Cutback. This is exactly the same as regular Spiritual Pressure.

This is why communicable effects travel quickly between them. Not only are they constantly pulling one another close, but they are experts at altering themselves. They do so naturally. They know how to take apart and reshape one another. Doing so is how they prepare for dinner. When cells or bacteria consume others like themselves; they have to first break them down. This requires a delicate dance in which chemical messages and weapons are used between the two individuals involved. Eventually it resolves with one being dissolved and absorbed. Such is the case with intercellular communication, except that commands are being sent chemically...instead digestive juices. With such an effective system; each cell immediately commands whichever ones they touch...who then communicate with each cell they touch. With this networked method; anything shared with one Spirit Cell immediately spreads to them all. Whether that be: an order to transform, a contagious disease, a deadly poison, or a vital antidote. It is easy to see how beneficial this might be for Mika, especially when he needs to communicate a new order. Sadly, communicate is a two way avenue. For every advantage consumption’s hold provides, so to is a disadvantage given. The same method used to lead them can be used to destroy them. So...what can be done to protect them?

Cellular Adaption -

Everything discussed so far represents the abilities that Spirit Cells possess naturally. Their powers. What comes now are Mika's powers. A list of descriptions relating to what he can do to the raw biomass that Ikiki produces. It starts with "piggybacking". This phrase will be used frequently to describe when Spirit Cells are used to carry effects they themselves cannot create. Such actions are not based on the actual powers of Ikiki, but must be mentioned in tandem with them. Such actions a made possible by the use of ”Lipid Vials”. These devices can hold biological, genetic information like a memory unit. The genetic information inside of Lipid Vials is always referred to as a "BioReishi" compound. When one of these vials are broken; they release the "BioReishi" compound into the immediate atmosphere. This is where Spirit Cells come into play. Spirit Cells have the inherent trait of permeable membranes. Spirit Cells, like all cells, can interact with their surroundings during direct contact. Nutrients can be captured, and pollutants absorbed. Whenever the biological information of a Lipid Vial is released; Spirit Cells may intercept and replicate the information. This process is exactly the same process as Spirit Cells behaving as Stem Cells. If another example is necessary; this is the same as sitting too long in a bath. After a while, keratin cells in your skin absorb vast amounts of water. Spirit Cells share this inviting trait. Mika knows this, and will often release compounds of his own design into the air. Spirit Cells hovering around him will quickly absorb and replicate the effects of the released formula. In this respect...it is like an assassin poisoning a blade. Only the poison is being applied to a swirling mass of living cells rather than steel. Picking up offered information; Spirit Cells may be commanded to reproduce it. This would allow the Spirit Cells, at Mika’s behest, to replicate any form of bacteria or organic poison that is released by a Lipid Vial. The only way it is possible for Mika to use Spirit Cells to reproduce contents of a Lipid Vial, would require converting the entire body of Spirit Cells into the new form. Every Spirit Cell must be used, as there is no way to isolate free-floating Spirit Cells from one another. To infect someone with such effects; Mika must adhere to the same rules stated in the "Spirit Cell Communication" section of Overall Ability. As was mentioned there, about these devilish prokaryotes, is how quickly they work together. Regardless of their synergy; Spirit Cells cannot replicate the contents of multiple Lipid Vials at the same time. There is no way for Spirit Cells to carry both a disease, and an antidote. Only one "BioReishi" compound may be carried by Spirit Cells at once.

Why is this so? Well for starters; Spirit Cells can’t pick and choose which of them will become one thing or another. Neither does Mika have the power to command isolated Spirit Cells, so that he can assign different jobs to each. Since Spirit Cells cannot be used for different, simultaneous purposes; Mika specifically designs his chemicals to modify the protein receptors within the Spirit Cells. These modified receptors allow new effects to come in, take over, and replace old ones. Doing so without any hassle or complication. Switching from one poison to another, or from a disease to a cure, is as easy as breaking a new Lipid Vial. This is for the ease of system mechanics. When a new vial is used; it will wash away the effect of any previous one and replace it. If it were not clear before, only Spirit Cells in the “Communication Field”; can pick up this new information. Individuals who are affected by the previous "BioReishi" compound will remain infected until treated. However; though Mika may change what Lipid Vial contents his Spirit Cells are replicating, he cannot change the effects which already apply to infected hosts. Meaning, if Mika uses the contents of a new Lipid Vial, it will not end the infections created by previous ones. Anyone cured or poisoned by past Lipid Vial contents will not see those effects ended, or reversed. This must be stressed to properly convey the dangerousness of these engineered compounds. They are vicious. To actually end the effects placed on someone; the target must complete the requirements listed on the individual "BioReishi" compound's descriptions. They must be cured, or undone, with the instructions given. This is exactly the same as normal poisons or illnesses having specific treatments and cures. Such solutions to his weapons will be included in each weapons drawbacks. However, it might not be Mika's poisons and diseases which need to be treated. So how are these amazing feats possible? It is because Mika has full knowledge and control over Spirit Cells and their behavior. There is no guesswork nor is their any true limit on experimental stock. Mika intentionally designs all of his compounds to work cooperatively with one another. Mika creates compounds for "piggybacking", outside of combat. They are designed and produced within his lab. By harvesting portions of Ikiki’s Spirit Cells, and rewriting their blank functions. This is exactly the same as harvesting Stem Cells from embryos. By altering Ikiki’s own Cells, Mika can guarantee an accurate and speedy reaction. Once a chemical agent has been created with Ikiki’s Cells, it can be saved and activated later. Which means a list will be saved of all created, accepted "BioReishi" compounds. These compounds will be saved by Mika; catalogued for any possible future use. By himself....or others.

Unfortunately, communication is always a two way street. This ability allows Kurosawa to affect Spirit Cells with compounds he produces. However, the functions of the Spirit Cells can be modified by others besides Mika. The outside influence must be from an organic source. What could this be specified as? Bacteria, cells, chemicals, viruses, and even biological powers like Ikiki's.To explain how this works, the common cold makes for a fantastic example. If Mika were to activate either Shikai or Bankai, the area around him would become saturated with Spirit Cells. Imagine there are other people within range of his Spirit Cell Field. Now, say that one of those individuals is infected with the common cold. If the virus is still in it’s contagious cycle, the infected member would spread that virus to all other occupants. Just with their mere presence within the Spirit Cells. Remember, the Spirit Cells occupy the same space as Mika's Gravity Pressure. The virus would not have to: travel through the air, water, or carbon dioxide vapors. Instead, it would enter into the Spirit Cells. Then it would spread like the god d*mn plague it is. With this aspect of the Spirit Cells in constant effect; Mika is always a conduit for communicable diseases. However, there is one last note to be made about this feature.

If Mika has "piggybacked" his Spirit Cells with new genetic information, then they are less likely to be infected by outside forces. This is because the Spirit Cells are no longer considered “blank”, and now have new genetic information that outside forces would have to overcome. The likelihood depends on the superior Spiritual stat of the external manipulator. This means that diseases, viruses, poisons, and other biological effects would not be capable of altering the Spirit Cells. Since they have no Spiritual stats. While Spiritual Beings with the ability to use biological attacks have a chance to infect Ikiki's Spirit Cells. They may do so if their superior Spiritual stat exceeds Mika's. When dealing with outside interference, specifically ones Mika didn't create; unmodified Spirit Cells do have a defense. A response intended for when Mika's Spiritual stat isn't strong enough to prevent unwanted "piggybacking". It is a high cost defense, but it works through natural means. The ability to carry genetic or medicinal additives is not limited to mere transportation. Within his mass of Spirit Cells; Mika can metastasize cures and treatments at a much faster rate. Meaning that he can inject a new poison or illness into the mass, to have it naturally develope a resistance to the threat. This can be done during combat, but is ill advised. Regardless of the strength or danger posed by a contaminant; it costs Mika 1000 Reiatsu to build resistance to it. Why such a high cost? It is because it takes that many Spirit Cells' deaths to produce a single one with a viable immunity. An immunity which spreads quickly to the rest of the remaining Spirit Cells. Though this resistance is permanent; it only applies to biological threats and does not protect against modified versions of the original. Think of it as beating the flu. If it comes back different or stronger the next time, the previous resistance is useless.

Cellular Weaknesses -

Ah, but now you must be thinking; what are the natural flaws to all of these biomazing power? Well, such things should be rather clear by now. Ikiki's power is to create cells from Spiritual Particles. In the end, cells are biological in nature. The same rules that restrict biology, restrict them. The same things which specifically hinder cells, are a mutual detriment to Spirit Cells. The most notable, if only for their drastic efficiency, are environmental changes. Heat and cold are the easiest, and most likely scenarios to describe. Deep cold and intense heat; both play antagonistic roles in this power scheme. Temperatures dropping well below freezing are never good for living things. Firstly, such circumstances limit the speediness that cells can perform their functions. Whatever processes the tissue might be attempting becomes impossible; none of it's chemical actions or reactions able to maintain necessary energy. What is worse, is what happens after such incapacitation. If cells spend too long exposed to frigid cold, there is no recovering them. They become too damaged and brittle to be worth anything to the living micro-community. Though Spirit Cells are far more resilient and magnificent than their living cellular counterparts; they too succumb to the cold. Temperatures dropping beneath -160°F/-71°C will leave Spirit Cells quite incapacitated, or worse. Sadly, the answer to this chilly problem lies not in heat or fires. Especially not billowing flames of passion. For Spirit Cells are as normal cells, and despise contact with extreme heats. Just as uncontrolled heat causes normal cells to become deformed and dysfunctional, so do Spirit Cells. At such times that Spirit Cells become too hot, they cease to behave as cells. They can no longer be commanded to perform any functions they normally could. To make matters worse; such heat will begin destroying large portions of Spirit Cells for each moment they remain exposed to the burn. The minimum temperature needed to catalyze such weakness is a mirror of the cold; 160°F/71°C and above. Not only do the ill effects require a certain degree, it also takes time. Most negative effects concerning dramatic temperature changes require a full post rotation of exposure. This would be one post from either Mika or an enemy; which creates the unpleasant environment, and then another post from each other thread participant. One “full rotation” of posts; which still isn't very long. Being a man of Science and determination; Mika will always have answers to an adjusted thermostat, and the individuals who prefer to mess with such climatory regulators. ”Such as my favorite; avoiding individuals who use abilities specifically detrimental to cellular biology." Huehue, I just realized. “Fire...BAAAD.", huh Frankenstein? ”Yes. Very bad, indeed.”

Cellular Foci -

This section has a fancy title to describe a simple function. Where do the Spirit Cells come from and congregate? The answer is obvious; though it changes depending on what stage of release Ikiki is in. Starting with Shikai seems to make sense. When Ikiki is released into Shikai; all of Mika's Reiatsu is converted into Spirit Cells. As described before; these cells cling to themselves and to Mika. While the cells come from Mika, they are controlled by Ikiki. The ornate pipe that Mika has with him at all times. It is this pipe that pulls their reigns. Whenever Mika uses the pipe, blowing smoke through it, the Spirit Cells heave and flow in tune with the breaths. The strength of this is determined by Mika’s physical strength; plied through Ikiki’s form. The only bond remaining between scientist and spirit. It is rather artistic, and might even be pretty if not for the risk of death. Downside. Spirit Cells are biological, and as such, can’t be spent except for biological purposes. Meaning, using Kido that acts outside of the body requires a “spark” of sorts. Something to start the reaction within the cells so they release Reiatsu as energy. Mika has Ikiki to do this. The bowl, and it’s ability to hold heat, acts as this flaming spark. As a result, Mika cannot use nonbiological techniques without Ikiki in hand. If that sounds bad, then good. It is terrible. It means that Mika loses all external Kido when separated from his Zanpakuto. Were he to reclaim the pipe; such techniques would return to his repertoire. As a note, Flash Step counts as a biological technique given that enhances the physical body. Hoho and other Reiatsu fueled Hakuda/physical techniques are also included. Shame Mika’s personality would never learn or utilize such ”barbarism”. Still, it is a very unfortunate flaw. One that Bankai quickly mends.

When Ikiki Ataenushi is awakened; the beautiful pipe is consumed by spiritual energy. The original foci is actually stolen by the Bankai itself. A new epicenter is being born. If all of Mika’s power is being unleashed, it serves to reason that it would all congregate together. Bankai is the “Final Release”...unleashing all in a separated, cooperative new form. That would be Ikiki Ataenushi's massive body. Since the Zanpakuto is taking all Mika has to give; he must become the new focus of force. The monolithic figure becomes the source of all Spirit Cells. As was explained, Ikiki Ataenushi's body is made of Somatic Cells. The previous Spirit Cells. To use those cells for any purposes as before, Mika has to pay a fee. However. This fee can be paid by act of will. Even though Mika no longer holds the pipe. Even though Ikiki Ataenushi is the new foci. Mika still gives commands. The bond is between spirits, and is unbreakable so long as Mika’s mind remains conscious. What of the issue from Shikai? What of the inability to spend Spirit Cells as regular Reiatsu? What of the lost access to nonbiological techniques? Once again, Ikiki is the solution to Mika’s woes. How is this so? Think on these words, “static electricity”. Oh yeah, friction sparks. Being so damn big as Ikiki Ataenushi is; the Bankai’s body generates outrageous amounts of Reishi friction. Moving Spiritual Particles colliding and grinding each other, building up constant energy. If Mika can come into contact with Ikiki Ataenushi’s body, he can use the resulting spark to incite Reiatsu. The jolt between them becomes a catalyst, and from it a external based Kido may be performed. Curious about what an “external based Kido” is or isn’t? Then stop skimming, and start reading this portion again. This only lasts while Bankai lasts. When it ends, Ikiki Ataenushi will returned to a sealed state and the Spirit Cells will be gone. Now that that little detail has been explained. Its time to move on to what happens when Mika is separated from his Spirit Cells. It is quite interesting to see what the little, living buggers do then.

Cellular Isolation -

There has been a lot of talk about Spirit Cells huddling together, and maintaining communication. A few times it was noted, that splitting up Spirit Cells is impossible. That isolation cannot be achieved. Well...that is not entirely true. The reality is; Spirit Cells make up a large, biological mass. Though it fights to stay one piece; it can be cut by certain means. Such means need to share something with Spirit Cells. Such means need to be biological. A good example; Spirit Cells seeping into a wound without orders just before it is healed. The cells that dropped inside are cut off from the main body thanks to crowding. New, nonSpirit Cells create a barrier...which is the same as a cut. What would happen to those Spirit Cells trapped in the body? Without commands from Mika...what becomes of them? Here we will find the answer. If enough Spirit Cells were to flood a patient's esophagus or blood vessels or whatever, their bodily functions would soon come to a halt. Veins would clog and burst. Throats and airways would choke. The way this works is rather simple, and automatic by nature. It is a reaction. The Spirit Cells that enter into the body of another soul, must find some way to survive. If they have been cut off from their main source, with no hope of receiving chemical commands or incentives, then they will perform what functions they can. In this respect; the function they perform is mimicry. Whatever Cells they come into contact with; they will become. Extra body cells in the lungs. Extra blood cells in the veins. This reaction happens with or without Mika’s consent. It can only be avoided if the Spirit Cells have already been programmed to serve a different purpose. There won’t be any warning of this effect from Kurosawa; given that it happens in spite of his control. This is one event Mika would prefer to avoid. After all, it does not bode well if his powers happen without his approval. It makes him quite incompetent. As bad as he might look, it is nothing compared to his patients. For isolated Spirit Cells mimic without conscience or hesitation. While they could serve to heal a body of injury or loss; their replication could also do harm. Too much blood bursts the vessel. Too much skin deadens nerves. Even organs which find their innards overproduced can begin to fail; clogged by useless excess. It is all terribly painful, and exceptionally dangerous. Thankfully, Mika will never be to blame for "healing in" any of his Spirit Cells. Still...there is another way to isolate the cells. One that is much easier for fools to accomplish.

When could such a thing happen? What could manage to separate such well bonded cells by force? The answer is greed. Whenever another soul absorbs Reishi from the surrounding area; they won't be able to avoid taking in Spirit Cells. The cells are Reishi after all. When this happens; the Spirit Cells won't be broken down. Not divided or destroyed, but they will be purified. They will loose all effects given to them by Mika or anyone else. They will revert back to basic Reiatsu; in the sense that they become "blank" Spirit Cells once again. Thats when the reaction mentioned before occurs. When Spirit Cells are absorbed by outside techniques; they become "blank" again. Once inside the body, they will distribute throughout and mimic their surroundings. If they are absorbed by a specific ability, forcing them into a specific area of anatomy(stomach, heart, lungs, etc), then they will mimic and overcrowd that area. If they are distributed evenly as raw, stolen energy; then they will simply occupy the areas they reach. Much the same as if they were forced into those areas by Mika. His enemies could cripple something vital, or infect their entire body by willingly ingesting Spirit Cells. Remember...you are what you eat.

Cellular Evolution -

Unlike many of the other, warmongering Zanpakuto that pollute the world around him, Ikiki has usefulness that only grows the further he is from battle. With hours and hours of research on the phenomenon of Spirit Cells, there are vast amounts of discoveries to be unraveled. Like cracking the Shinigami Genome...learning how Spirits pass on their genetics and abilities. Imagine if the power and mastery of the Gotei 13's strongest fighters could be traced to a cellular level. What if it were possible, to genetically modify greatness into the most promising recruits? Captains should not be made, nor should they be born...they should be BOTH. And what of Zanpakuto? Are they not spirits like the Shinigami? Yet they are born and bound within the forms of swords and tools. What if the opportunity to release them from their material bonds could become real? What if Zanpakuto could be given real, lasting life? All of these are the future of the Soul Society, and therefore, the future of all. With Ikiki, that future could become the present. That is what makes him, the first "Living Zanpakuto", such an irreplaceable asset. Well, to those whose intelligence is discernible through all the filth. The sincere truth of it is, with Mika and Ikiki, true power is in the evolution.

Shikai Overall Ability:

”Last breaths are as sweet as first breaths.” How can you be sure? ”How will you ever know otherwise…”

So. The words have been said, and the commands issued. Ikiki is awake and breathing. How does Mika use the Spirit Cells that he creates? ”I am glad you asked. I have been waiting to talk about Ikik-” Oh, ho-no. Why would I let you insult them at such a crucial moment of description? "It is for the best. I know Ikiki better than any other. Also, there is no greater insult than your rambling words. Not even my venomous quips compare to that nauseating putrescine you sputter." Oh man...after this they will be begging me to come back. Proceed. "Gladly. Listen close, for the imbecile was correct. We have come to a most crucial point. It has been said and detailed many times, the power of Ikiki. What we discuss here is Shikai; the first interpretation of those powers. I will do what I can with my not inconsiderable skill, and try to educate you. There are many aspects of Ikiki's Release that might be confusing...but I wouldn't imagine many things aren't to you.

We begin with an observation. Like all good science should. Most Shikai take the form of some sort of weapon, and Ikiki does not. While it is not unheard of Zanpakuto to become unconventional, or even nonsensical creations...even I cannot deny Ikiki's martial uselessness. A pipe is hardly the ideal weapon. Even in the hands of true fighters. For me the pipe is perfect. Setting aside my preference for smoking; a pipe carries with it many redeeming traits. I can use it to manipulate pressure. In- and exhalation, a measurable control of energy's flow. Then there is energy itself. Unlike the flat of a blade or the curve of a club; my pipe can cradle a flame. Not that I would ever need to actually use an open ember with Ikiki's powers. What it holds instead would be either Reiatsu, or a chemical reaction. It is much the same as an alembic or decanter. These basic functions of form are sincerely ideal for my work and tactics. Let me add more shed more light on how...

Ironically, by laying down a cover of smoke. Pipes emitted and erupt with thick, swirling smoke. This idea an image is easy to envision. When people witness or examine what they know of Ikiki's Shikai; they believe some puppetry at play. They imagine a mass of cells, invisible or colored, and see me guiding it by my hands. I suppose they think me some master of air...pushing around a noxious, dangerous cloud. The truth is, I cannot do such a thing. Ikiki affords me no control over the movement of the Spirit Cells. They are a lingering energy. Just like any other Shinigami and their Reishi; the Spirit Cells only cling to me. Following only where I physically travel. It is...infuriatingly inefficient. Requiring me to get close to my opponents. To put myself in harms way. I know how Ikiki would have preferred me to use his gifts. Back when he was still a blade, a katana like the rest; he would have had me fight to wound. I would have been whipping around a blade; it and my body oozing with Spirit Cells. Every blow I would have landed, each cut I would have left...all of them would have been doused in vicious cells. That is what my Zanpakuto wanted. A fighter who used incisions made by the blade to inflict his will. Whether to leave infection, or cut out disease. Ikiki wanted the impossible. Born without an arm; I was never to going to be a splendid or accomplished fighter. What my Zanpakuto dreamed of in a master; he was denied. Rather than let myself be defeated by fate's cruelty or a Zanpakuto's assumption...I made a new path. I turned my sword into a pipe. A pipe which can draw the Spirit Cells about me, and reissue them as aimed vapor. The cliche of smoke puffed into others' faces, now my weapon's design. With each breath bringing me comfort and indulgence; then sharing either life or death. Whichever I choose to bellow forth.

Ikiki's Shikai provides me with both Spirit Cells, and by it's material shape, a means to project those cells. Whenever I breathe deeply; Ikiki's design allows me to draw in however many Spirit Cells I wish. Either a small dose, or all. So long as I hold my breath; the cells are kept safe in pipe, throat, and lung. A compromise of any of these means Ikiki's weapon will spill forth. Such is the case with exhalation, as well. When given the chance to push out the air; I can ply my physical strength to the endeavor. Though I have learned to create many shapes with vapors; it is my range I am most proud of. I can create a stream of smoke as long as dragon's fire. Pushing the cellular contents forward in a blitz." Through exhalation; Mika can push Spirit Cells in a straight line like an attack. Whether with Ikiki or his own lips(assuming he has any) as the funnel. These smoke streams travel a number of decimeters equal to his Strength stat, and at a pace equal to Strength as well. 100 Strength would be 10 meters. It is the physical power of his lungs which affect both aspects of the attack. Spirit Cells emitted in this fashion remain bonded to one another. Due to the nature of Spirit Cell bonds; the vapor stream retracts back into the Field by the end of the next post following emission. All of these wonders made possible by Ikiki's pipe design; which traps Spirit Cells into smoke vapors. "They should understand that much, you dimwit. Such was the simplest part of the concept; requiring reiteration the least. So the pipe works like a pipe, and allows a one-armed cripple like me to wield versatile control. The way my Shikai should have offered me naturally...without my intervening modifications. Fortunately, my modifications provided me with far more versatility than I initially planned." Oh, you mean the pipe helped you become a drug fiend? Or the displeasing smoke odour helped keep people disgusted and away? "Oh no, those facets were considered early on. They reassured my initial uncertainty. No, what I refer to is the ability to hold energy.

The bowl which adorns the tip of Ikiki's body, the one shaped like a gaping mouth, has the capacity to encase energy. While one would expect a flame; I prefer chemicals and Reiatsu. This might seem a trivial reality...but so are the threats of a one-armed fighter. Just like myself, this trivial fact can be underestimated. Ikiki's Shikai creates Spirit Cells from my Reiatsu. Pure energy made into microscopic tissue. While I claim the Spirit Cells to still be Reiatsu; it is an error to assume them identical to their previous forms. Spirit Cells can be energy, but are far more difficult to use as such. They have potential, but it prefers to remain biological in nature. That means application as well. What I am saying...is that my Shikai makes it beyond impossible to use my Reiatsu as normal Reiatsu. A weakness that many Shinigami wouldn't recognize, let alone understand. For them, "spending" energy requires only exertion. Their bodies are natural conduits for the energy. Once my Shikai turns Reiatsu to cells, they lose that reception. No longer can my body conduct their charge as power output. I am forced to use them as the biological body they are. That is...until I remade my Shikai into a pipe. As a pipe, I can use the tool to interact with it's creations. By concentrating Spirit Cells in it's bowl; I can generate friction between cells and Spiritual Steel. This friction taps into the core of the Spirit Cells, breaking open the energy faut within. With a pipe's function; I can create pseudo conductivity. Only with a pipe's miniature kiln, can I stoke sparks of Reiatsu into existence. As a result, all Kido and other external products of Reishi, generate first in the bowl. My Shikai both inhibits and grants the use of my Reiatsu...by conventional understanding. Quite a paradox. Much like myself. As useful as the ability to spark Spirit Cells into activity...as invaluable as conventional Reiatsu...Shikai gives one last gift. The gift of modification. The freedom of for me to ply my medical knowledge with the resources and tool in hand.” Oh...oh god. Do you know how that sounds? ”What are you implying…” I’ll tell you how.

With my distraction successful...the segway is achieved. Let’s discuss something quite important about Shikai. Something I enjoying denying Mika the chance to brag about. After being commanded to release, and taking the form of the pipe, Ikiki becomes a conduit for many things. Spirit Cell projection. Reiatsu conductivity. And lastly, the ability to convey commands to the Spirit Cells. A special tricked utilized by Mika, to alter his weapon in the midst of battle. Why else would he be so eager to pack the pipe full of exotic “tobaccos”? Why else would he be bothered to smoke during a fight? ”The real question is why I would even be in a battl-” And I’ll tell you why. Because the vapors emitted from Mika’s halitosis riddled mouth are actually messages he shares with Ikiki. That is right, communication between master and weapon...achieved through smoking. Rather fascinating, is it not? And boy oh boy, were those warnings about secondhand smoke correct.

So do you remember all those mentions of poisons and disease from earlier? ”I also talked about cures and antibodies…” Regardless. many times while those topics were discussed, it was also mentioned that Mika makes compounds. Compounds that Spirit Cells can intercept, physically, and begin carrying. Even replicating. Well, if there was any merits to those claims...then how would such chemicals be introduced effectively. It’s not quite easy to inject genetic material into a single cell. Needles that small are of poor quality. Mika decided to simply make use of the tool his Shikai now becomes. Utilizing the pipe’s ability to billow with smoke; Mika designs mixtures that disperse in heat. Heat that can be easily made in forged in the pipe’s bowl. ”BioReishi” compounds are thus prepared, so that they activate within the smoke. See it now? Those vapors which wreath Mika’s smoking form? They are the dangerous creations and weapons he engineers. Projected and coiled about it, by way of his pursed lips. With each puff that Mika takes of his pipe, he is filling his own lungs with whatever compound he wishes to use and then sharing it with Ikiki. Now the next most reasonable questions are..."Where do the chemicals come from? No wait...why the f*ck do they not hurt Mika?" ”That is a stupid question, they kno-” Let me continue.

Mika produces various mixtures using the Spirit Cells he harvests from Ikiki during their down time. Whatever toxin or plague he can engineer in Ikiki’s Cells outside of battle, can then be used like opium in battle. It really is a wonderful system. ”Yes, well, I certainly do lik-” Now, what about Mika? Doesn’t he suffer from all these drugs he abuses. Sadly, the answer is yes. ”No it isn’t…” Because of his extensive abuse of narcotics and poisons, he will forever be a weirdo and outcast. A revolting mess which only ever garners the disgust of those who look upon him. ”...” Being liked isn’t what Science is about, so who cares. Now, how do you think he avoids serious injury when inhaling possibly deadly organic materials? Simple enough really, the cells he uses to create his various mixtures…are based on his own. All of the Spirit Cells produced by Ikiki are actually designed from the same template which grew little, embryo Mika so many centuries ago. Zanpakuto are extensions of their Master's souls, as such, the only knowledge Ikiki could have of cellular structure must come from Mika himself. So the next time one is covered in Spirit Cells, let them find comfort that they are doused in what is comparably “aborted Mika”. Seriously, did I just blow your mind? Cause I distinctly heard the sound of exploding grey matter. "I can only imagine your familiarity with that sound. I'd wager you hear it all the time. When you're alone. This would explain your mental shortcomings...given all that ruptured tissue." Can't hear you, too awesome. Well if brains are still intact, let's continue. Mika produces all of his blends with his own genetics. This is what offers him protection from the effects. When he designs the effects; he has to produce them in such a way that they harm everything but the Spirit Cells used to carry them. If those same cells are similar in make to his own, then he becomes immune to the effects by default. Huu-freaking-zah. Which means he is not, nor ever will be, in direct harm from concoctions of his own malicious fabrication. Outside afflictions can still cause him and Ikiki’s Spirit Cells great harm, as was mentioned before. So having the reassurance that only the world is out to kill him is a victory. It is a small victory, but those are often the best.

Shikai's Hard Facts -

"TL;DR". A Recap. When Ikiki is released for Shikai; it converts all of Mika's unspent Reiatsu into Spirit Cells. Spirit Cells behave both as Reiatsu and as biomass. Living organisms. Spirit Cells exist as a dual form of energy and "tissue". It appears as a large, faintly green blob of clustered cells. This "aura" is called the "Communicable Field". The Field’s size is determined by Remaining Reiatsu; the total being used to measure the size in 1/100 meter scale. These meters must be distributed evenly to three values: height, width, and depth. Example: 1000 Reiatsu would mean 10 decimeters for distribution, or: 3.33m in height, 3.33m in width, 3.33m, in depth. The Field will always be considered a “rough cube or sphere”; shifting in surf texture and “topography”. Within it, targets can be affected by Spirit Cells. Any target that enters the Field becomes saturated by Spirit Cells. Saturation means covered, but not necessarily "infected". Targets cannot avoid saturation within the Field, and Mika cannot avoid saturation costs. To saturate a target costs the following: 50 Reiatsu for the head and limbs; 100 for the torso; 50 Reiatsu for an entire organ; 100 for an entire organ system(circulatory, respiratory, nervous, digestive). Each of these costs half as much on small targets, or those under 100 lbs. Each of these costs compound for larger targets, starting at 500 lbs. 500 lbs equals doubled costs; 1,000 lbs equals tripled costs; 10,000 lbs equals quadrupled costs; 500,000 lbs equals quintupled costs; 50,000,000 lbs equals septuple costs. Portions of anatomy can only be saturated if they are exposed. Internal organs or limbs cover with protective gear are unaffected; until exposed. Mika does not pay the Reiatsu cost unless saturation can occur. A previously saturated target cannot be saturated again. Saturated targets can become "infected" targets; if Mika meets any of the conditions needed for infection within a saturated area. The size of the the Field is equal to Mika's Spiritual Pressure. Whatever the value of Mika's Spiritual Pressure; it must be divided into three figures: height, width, and depth. This Field cannot take specific or elaborate forms. It must maintain basic, geometric shapes. The Field will expand to fill whatever containment in which it is kept. Spirit Cells have many unique abilities. Namely, to alter their genetic code and change their molecular structure. This allows them to integrate into their targets, harmlessly. This can also allow Spirit Cells to transform into: Stem Cells, various bacterium, antibodies, alkaloid poisons, or fat cells. This transformation requires focus, a detailed knowledge of the intended form, and 100 Reiatsu. Transforming back from poisons costs an additional 100 Reiatsu more than normal. Spirit Cells cannot transform into inorganic materials, nor can they independently create a soul(new life). Regardless of form; Spirit Cells can invade target's bodies through: bleeding wounds, inhalation, or consumption. All components of a body's physiology can be "infected" by Spirit cells, but each require different methods of introduction.

To "infect" targets requires two conditions. Proper avenues and Reiatsu cost. The avenues are ways by which Spirit Cells physically infect. They are as follows. External targets, such as the limbs and torso, require a bleeding wound. The same goes for the head. To target the heart, lungs, or brain; Mika must have the Spirit Cells inhaled. To target the stomach or other digestive organs; Mika must have the Spirit Cells fully consumed. To target filter organs such as the Lymph nodes, liver, kidneys, pancreas, etc; Mika must create two or more bleeding wounds on the body. Finally come entire Organ Systems. The processes for inhabiting these systems is the same as the individual organs within them. The difference? They take an extra post, and thus meet the singular organ requirement a total of two times before taking effect. This does not alter the cost; which remains 2 times the Reiatsu for the particular target. Reiatsu costs for infecting a target are as follows. Regardless of where or how Spirit Cells enter the body; there is a Reiatsu cost. 50 Reiatsu for the head and limbs; 100 for the torso; 50 Reiatsu for an entire organ; 100 for an entire organ system(circulatory, respiratory, nervous, digestive). Each of these costs half as much on small targets, or those under 100 lbs. Each of these costs compound for larger targets, starting at 500 lbs. 500 lbs equals doubled costs; 1,000 lbs equals tripled costs; 10,000 lbs equals quadrupled costs; 500,000 lbs equals quintupled costs; 50,000,000 lbs equals septuple costs. Unwilling targets receive resistances to Spirit Cell infection, beyond the manner which they must be infected. To resist having the blood of an open wound being infected; an opponent’s Reiatsu Strength or Healing Expertise stats must exceed Mika's Healing Expertise stat. To resist becoming infected by inhalation; an opponent's Spiritual Pressure or Healing Expertise stats must exceed Mika's Healing Expertise stat. Infection from inhalation also takes 2 posts to have effect. To resist becoming infected by consumption; an opponent’s Strength or Healing Expertise stats must exceed Mika’ Healing Expertise Stat. These resistances apply to "BioReishi" Techniques; unless otherwise specified within the Technique.

Spirit Cells have many offensive variations to their forms. For each of these, there is a significant cost or penalty. For bacteria to cause illness or difficulty for an opponent; they must first infect two organ systems. This would cost 4 times the Reiatsu and require at least 4 posts of combat to accomplish. For antibodies to become harmful to those they infect; their cost increases. To cause nonlethal, detrimental damage; the cost must be paid twice. 100 Reiatsu for the head and limbs; 200 for the torso; 100 Reiatsu for an entire organ; 200 for an entire organ system. If the original cost is paid three times, then those areas can be rendered useless. 150 Reiatsu for the head and limbs; 300 for the torso; 150 Reiatsu for an entire organ; 300 for an entire organ system. For limbs; this means a total loss. For the torso; this means crippling of all muscle groups and paralysis. For the head; this means one is placed into a catatonic state. For organs; this means a slow, but certain death. For entire organ systems; this means a sudden, excruciating death. For poisons to take effect within a target; they must infect an organ system. The organ system which they infect cannot be the filter system(Lymph nodes, Liver, Kidneys, Pancreas). For antidotes to treat poisons within a target; they must: enter the body the same way as the poison, occupy the same area of the body as the poison, and Mika’s Healing Expertise must exceed the opponent's superior Spiritual stat. It is possible for Spirit Cells to protect themselves from poisonous or foreign infection. To do so costs 1000 Reiatsu. This grants immunity to the threat at present, but not future variations. If that effect changes later, to it's core, then the immunity is lost.

Spirit Cells are biological in nature, and share biological traits. When Spirit Cells are exposed to temperatures beneath -160°F/-71°C; their reaction rate. Each post the Spirit Cells spend exposed to such temperatures, their reaction speed is halved. When Spirit Cells are exposed to temperatures above 160°F/71°C; they may no longer receive "commands" to alter their state. Each post that Spirit Cells spend exposed to such heat, a 10% portion of them are destroyed. This percentage is pulled from the total remaining Reiatsu. For these temperatures to have effect, whether hot or cold, requires a full rotation of posts. Meaning; the Spirit Cells must remain exposed for one post per participant of the thread, or encounter. Spirit Cells are susceptible to Spiritual effects when: the attack targets unspent Reiatsu, is biological in nature(diseases, viruses, poisons, or "Bioreishi" compounds), or uses temperature alteration. Otherwise they are treated as normal unspent Reiatsu, and may not be intentionally harmed or targeted. Attempts to absorb Spirit Cells result in absorbing biological mass. Absorbed Spirit Cells revert to their "blank" form, and remain cellular. Absorbed Spirit Cells act as "blank" Spirit Cells, and replicate whatever cellular anatomy they come into contact with. This causes both painful, and debilitating tumors to form wherever stolen Spirit Cells are trapped.

Each point of Reiatsu reflects 1 trillion Spirit Cells, and each 1 trillion Spirit Cells is worth 1 point of Reiatsu. This may seem like a lot, but the average Human body is occupied by approximately 1 quadrillion germs. Even at a rate of 1 trillion cells/1 Reiatsu; 1,000 Reiatsu only equals 1 healthy human body’s worth of germs. Not cells, germs. Spirit Cells still behave as typical Reiatsu. Spirit Cells cannot divide or reproduce, and thus cannot replenish themselves or Reiatsu. As Reiatsu is spent, Spirit Cells are consumed. Spirit Cells naturally consume themselves at a rate of 5% per post. This is based on Spiritual Pressure; meaning 5% of the total Spirit Pressure is lost each post. A 400 Spiritual Pressure stat would cost 20 Reiatsu to maintain each post. 1000 would cost 50 Reiatsu each post. Consumed Spirit Cells are considered spent Reiatsu. In order to consume one another; Spirit Cells must be able to dissect and modify one another. Both quickly and efficiently. They must also remain in contact with one another. By combining both of these biological phenomenon; Spirit Cells carry messages(commands from Mika, implanted poisons, contracted illnesses) at a nigh instantaneous rate. This rate is represented by a set Speed of 2000.

Shikai Techniques -

There are none. *fits of giggles* ”Don’t say it with such joy and condescension.” Sorry *still snickering* I just can’t help myself. Why don’t you explain the sad story behind this one? ”Fine; though there is no real story to share. Ikiki is a special Zanpakuto. The most special, actually. For he is a living being. Not only does he possess intelligence and personality, but also he possesses breath and a pulse. These qualities that characterize a living creature are all that remain of Ikiki.” Go on...tell them why. ”Gladly. Being my Zanpakuto; Ikiki would need to heed my every word and command. I intend to use him to whatever ends I desire, and I don't approve of insubordination. Having seen the troubles other Shinigami face with their “Inner Spirits”; I decided to be more proactive.” So he LOBOTOMIZED him. Can you f*cking believe that? Performed procedures and experiments that broke the Inner Spirits mental will. Zip, pop, the emotions stopped.

”Yes, I did. I removed the parts of him which I found unfitting and inefficient. The emotions, the personality, and all the free will he could possibly muster against me. This way I can do as I please with my Zanpakuto, and Ikiki doesn’t have to suffer through whatever agonies that might involve. It was, I dare say, my most humane decisions to date.” GOD. I swear, I love you. Just...the way you see the things you do. ”I assume you mean; my inability to be constrained by the morals of my lessers?” Uh-huh. *head nodding quickly* That right there buddy. It’s the best. ”Ironic. Sarcasm was invented by men of learning, to deal with twits like you.” Ah well, twits still get the final word. As such, here is mine. See, Ikiki does have techniques. Stupid just can't use them anymore. Ah, but he is not the only one whom Ikiki serves. There is another...one who has not forsaken the poor Asauchi, like Mika has. Ekibyoha...the Inner Hollow. For him, these are Ikiki's Shikai Techniques.

{"Ikino Kaifuku"}

Description: "Breath's Recovery", the first glimpse into Ikiki's Techniques. Being the introduction, as it were; "Ikino Kaifuku" gives an impression of the theme. It showcases how Ikiki's Spirit Cells can be coordinated to achieve great biological feats. It displays the prowess of the cells to treat the ailments of other living creatures. It reflects the desires of Mika's soul, to alleviate others of their pain and maladies. It is a very sad, and inaccurate, representation of Ikiki's abilities or Mika's intentions. "Ikino Kaifuku" is an extremely practical, and highly versatile technique. The basis behind it lies within the Spirit Cells, and their ability to absorb through their permeable membranes. The same biological trait that allows them to communicate with one another and exchange resources, allows them to do the same with typical cells. "Ikino Kaifuku" begins by drawing all of the airborne Spirit Cells back to Ikiki. This causes the faintly green "cloud" that surrounds Mika in Shikai, to disappear. This also allows enemies to approach freely, without risk of infection. With the Spirit Cells recalled; Mika can direct them into a willing target as if casting a spiritual style of technique. The Spirit Cells then crowd their way into whatever target is chosen, causing quite immense pain. This pain travels through the full extent of the body, as it is temporarily crowded by additional cells. It is only thanks to the spiritual nature of these cells, that they do not cause more problems than they fix. While the target does suffer horrid discomfort; they are essentially "wiped clean" of all contaminants. Ranging from poisons to nutrient excesses, chemical imbalances to caustic Reiatsu effects. Toxins, diseases, and anything else that utilizes blood flow and anatomy to wreak havoc. All of these things are sponged from the body by Spirit Cells. The exceptionally harmful occupants kill off the Spirit Cells that absorb them; while the rest are carried out as waste. Killed Spirit Cells are translated as an increase in cost, since the cells are also Mika's Reiatsu. Which brings us to the last step of "Ikino Kaifuku". When all of the Spirit Cells have finished filtering the blood, organs, and flesh; they must exit the body. The method used to achieve this comes in two forms. Either the target releases a long yawn, several seconds in length. Thus allowing a massive collection of Spirit Cells to exit while bonded to the escaping air. Or the target may willingly evacuate their bowels and bladder. While it causes the eyes to close, the head to grow fuzzy, and produces an allover distraction for several seconds when yawning...one does not have to disrobe or fight with soiled britches. The choice is always left to the target, depending on whichever instinct they give into first.

Effect: "Ikino Kaifuku" withdraws all Spirit Cells in the air, but not those infecting other hosts. All collected Spirit Cells must then be sent into a target. "Ikino Kaifuku" heals the target, limited to: cleansing poisons, cleansing infections, restoring stamina by filtering out harmful chemicals from muscle groups and blood, relieving mental stresses by balancing chemical levels within the brain, or even allowing lungs to breath underwater by implanting oxygen. This process is quite painful, but quickly supplies whatever cellular needs or filtering that a body might require. "Ikino Kaifuku" can be considered a full nights rest, given that it purges the muscles, organs, and brain of chemical stressors. "Ikino Kaifuku" should be considered a full night's rest; while simultaneously undergoing hemoperfusion(super, badass dialysis in which even the smallest of toxins are removed thanks to adhesive resin filters...Spirit Cells make the resin in this case). "Ikino Kaifuku" can also be used to counteract Reiatsu effects which target the physical body. Destructive or caustic Reiatsu can be absorbed by Spirit Cells, rather than be allowed to target typical cells. To do this; "Ikino Kaifuku" must be used immediately, requiring at suitable amount of instincts to act before the other attack. In addition, a number of Spirit Cells must be sacrificed to absorb the negative effects. However much was paid to use the technique being counteracted, must be paid in Spirit Cells(50 Reiatsu for Class 6 Techniques, 800 Reiatsu for Class 1, or "X" for custom Reiatsu costs).

Drawbacks: "Ikino Kaifuku" requires all airborne Spirit Cells to be recalled; this does not affect Spirit Cells infecting hosts. While "Ikino Kaifuku" is in use; no new infections can occur, and attempts at infection fail. "Ikino Kaifuku" takes one full post to complete, and may only be used on a single, willing target. “Ikino Kaifuku” cannot have effect on target’s that resist it. Treating multiple targets with "Ikino Kaifuku" would require multiple posts. "Ikino Kaifuku" cannot heal wounds, but it can clean them. "Ikino Kaifuku" cannot regrow limbs or mend damaged organs, but it can filter them on a cellular level. "Ikino Kaifuku" cannot combat Spiritual fatigue, but it can sacrifice Spirit Cells to stop Reiatsu effects that target the physical body. For “Ikino Kaifuku” to succeed in purging Reiatsu effects; Mika’s Healing Expertise stat must exceed the oppositions superior Spiritual stat. "Ikino Kaifuku" causes quite a deal of pain, as swelling and fever occur throughout the treated areas. Those treated must choose to release a very long yawn, or immediately empty their bowels and bladder. This is to allow the Spirit Cells to escape with the filtered contaminants, safely. The choice is always made by those affected. If “Ikino Kaifuku” is used in consecutive posts, it causes failure of the filter organ system. This will result in death if not immediately treated. Finally; “Ikino Kaifuku” may only be used 4 times within a thread. Exceeding 4 uses also causes failure of the filter system.

Cost: 100 Reiatsu

{"Nikuno Negai"}

Description: "Flesh's Wish", now this is a Technique which better reflects Ikiki's power. Utilizing the shifting mass of Spirit Cells; "Nikuno Negai" gives Mika the power to create complex life. Normal Spirit Cells are quick to replace flesh; to heal and mend wounds. This technique allows Mika to build large quantities of flesh, and graft them directly on- or into a living target. This is one of the most visually appealing techniques. Spectators get to watch the layers of flesh being spun together by threads of Spirit Cells. It is like watching art...literally come to life. Now, the life is not actually alive, but it can be immensely complex. "Nikuno Negai" commands Spirit Cells to form into whatever shape that Mika wills them to be; so long is that shape is a living thing. Limbs, organs, and entire organ systems. Even whole bodies could be created. All of it, from the expertise of Mika. As one might expect, it takes considerable knowledge of medicine to produce the intended flesh. Fortunately, Mika has that. However, it is not necessary for the creations to "follow the book". Being a biologist allows Mika to experiment with what he creates. Improving it, even into unnecessary degrees. It is possible for organs and limbs that have never existed before to be manifested. Imagination and proper knowledge are all that is required. However, no matter what is formed, there comes a cost. Constructed tissue must be connected to a living body, or enveloped by Mika's Spiritual Cells in order to survive. Failing to meet one of these conditions results in the flesh's quick necrosis. Even though produced organs and limbs are alive, they cannot function on their own. To move them requires that they be carried. Quite a hefty charge for some of the larger creations. To avoid having to transport the formed tissue; "Nikuno Negai" can create organs and limbs already bonded to, or within, the intended target. Assuming the individual being treated is within range of Mika's Field. As far as drawbacks are concern; sheer expense is the issue. As size ratio increases, so do costs and creation delay. It is possible for Mika to leave himself quite exposed while forming a large structure.

Effect: "Nikuno Negai" commands Spirit Cells to form into a complete organ or limb; which can used to replace one that was lost. The created flesh is considered functional, even before it is attached or implanted. As long as the created flesh remains encased in the "cloud" of Spirit Cells, it remains alive and necrosis is prevented. Limbs and organs which are not directly grafted on- or into a target; must be carried to their target. Neither Spirit Cells or the Field have the power to transport produced flesh. Once the limb has been attached or the organ(s) implanted, they begin to function as an actual replacement. Due to the spiritual biology of Spirit Cells; there is no rejection of this limb or organ. Flesh created by "Nikuno Negai" cannot be manipulated after it has been set into the body. Created tissue are offered all the same resistances and strengths of the flesh they replace. Any healing that would force a Type change(“Lost Sense” having eyes replaced) may remain permanent at the affected’s request. The size of the limb or organ created reflects an additional cost, making larger manifestations more taxing to produce. Small: any limbs or organs crafted for a creature of less than 100 lbs in weight. Medium: any limbs or organs crafted for a creature of more than 100 lbs in weight. Large: any limbs or organs crafted for a creature of more than 500 lbs. Giant: any limbs or organs crafted for a creature of more than 5,000 lbs. Huge: any limbs or organs crafted for a creature of more than 50,000 lbs. Gargantuan: any limbs or organs made for a creature of more than 500,000 lbs. Colossal: any limbs or organs made for a creature of more than 50,000,000 lbs.

Drawbacks: Mika is incapable of moving while using “Nikono Negai”; requiring full concentration to construct tissue properly. Interrupting “Nikono Negai” before completion results in half-formed, unfinished creations. Unfinished creations are often useless, even bleeding as if wounded. Limbs or organs created by "Nikono Negai" die if they become disconnected from Spirit Cells. Disconnection can happen if they are carried too far from Ikiki's Field, or if Mika's Reiatsu reserve is empty. Flesh created by "Nikono Negai" can no longer be manipulated as typical Spirit Cells once assigned to a living target. Small: half the Reiatsu costs. Medium: unaltered Reiatsu costs. Large: doubled Reiatsu costs. Giant: tripled Reiatsu costs. Huge: quadrupled Reiatsu costs. Gargantuan: quintupled costs. Colossal: sextuple Reiatsu costs, and a full post duration.

Cost: 100 Reiatsu for arms; 200 Reiatsu for legs; 100 Reiatsu for the head; 300 Reiatsu for the torso; 1000 Reiatsu for an entire body

{"Ikito Niku wo Toru"}

Description: "Take Breath and Flesh", this...is a true representation of Ikiki's power. Not necessarily in what the Technique does, but how it does it. The concept is what fits so beautifully. "Ikito Niku wo Toru" is a marvelous ability, that may grant the user a boon of Reiatsu. A revitalization of the soul, for one made weary. This is made possible, through the sacrifice of flesh. "A pound of flesh", to be very precise. The cost of utilizing such a Technique. By offering up actual flesh, from his own body, Mika can temporarily increase his reservoir of Reiatsu. Well, not really Reiatsu, he is creating Spirit Cells. Made from the spiritually infused tissue of his soul, these Spirit Cells are and behave exactly the same as typical ones. With one slight difference. Their life spans are much shorter than their original brethren. Spirit Cells created using "Ikito Niku wo Toru", dissipate completely after only a short while. They cannot be sustained, not even later during Bankai's reproduction. Which means, the temporary allotment of Spirit Cells must be used with quick and efficient purpose in mind. Now this, is where it gets challenging. After all, a " pound" of flesh is quite literal. Mika must offer up to his Zanpakuto, full limbs and organs. A hefty price, that carries with it the burden of trauma and pain.

Effect: "Ikito Niku wo Toru" allows Ikiki to replenish Mika's Reiatsu, at the cost of flesh. 100 Reiatsu for arms; 200 Reiatsu for legs; 100 Reiatsu for the head; 300 Reiatsu for the torso(including inner organs); 1000 Reiatsu for an entire body. This Reiatsu is treated as "Spirit Cells". These Spirit Cells have a limited life span. After 8 posts, they dissipate if not used. These Spirit Cells join the collective, and behave as normal Spirit Cells for their duration. If these Spirit Cells are used to: infect an opponent, treat a target, or used to create living organs; these effects do not cease after 4 posts.

Drawbacks: "Ikito Niku wo Toru", requires Mika give up flesh to receive Reiatsu. To breakdown the sacrificed flesh, Mika must drawback all Spirit Cells, similar to "Ikino Kaifuku". "Ikito Niku wo Toru" causes immense pain, not only in the area sacrificed, but throughout the whole body. Sacrificing flesh means that it is literally cut from his body by protein separating chemicals, released by the intrusive Spirit Cells. That means the pain is a combination of pressure, cutting, and burning sensations. There is no cauterizing effect caused by this sacrifice; which means Mika is in danger of bleeding to death after every use. Blood loss also being able to cause dizziness and confusion, hampering attempts to prevent it.

Cost: 100 Reiatsu

Bankai Overall Ability:

”If Godzilla had AIDS…”

Introduction -

...he would be half as dangerous as Ikiki Ataenushi. It has been explained several times by Mika; Ikiki is the "Living Zanpakuto". Up until now, such a claim seemed underwhelming. Sure, Ikiki could create living tissue. That was more of an ability, rather than a state of being. So here comes Bankai. Casting an impossibly big shadow on the world; following the birth of a god d*mn monster. While it's Shikai focused on the production of microscopic life; Bankai has developed much more complexity. The Field of Spirit Cells is lost between the stages, and is replaced by a behemoth creature. This creature his Ikiki itself. Starting to see the pattern, yet? The blob like Field from Shikai is reminiscent of a zygote, or even a fetus. Developing and yet defined. Bankai is the product of gestation; aged and matured. A product physically born from the raw power within the weapon. A life, from a Zanpakuto. Nothing before was quite like this. What purpose does this new life serve? Is it still a too, or perhaps only a beast? Here we will discuss just what a Living Zanpakuto can do. Before learning what is new about Bankai, we will establish what remained. Many aspects of "Shikai's womb have passed on to the body. They vary from broad to specific, but are still easily classified under three ideas. First; Ikiki Ataenushi(Bankai) causes all of Mika’s Reiatsu to become Spirit Cells. Assuming they aren't already. Second; Ikiki Ataenushi has a foci just like Shikai. The foci was originally Mika. In Bankai, the foci is Ikiki Ataenushi’s new body. Finally; Bankai's Spirit Cells maintain the abilities from Shikai. Spirit Cells behave the same as they did before; with every rule and aspect unchanged. This is where the similarities stop, and the differences begin. In Bankai; Spirit Cells can take the form of Somatic Cells and Germ Cells. Somatic and Germ Cells are the two classifications which identify all complex organisms. All multicellular beings are composed of these categories. Basically, they give Bankai full dominance over the creation of life.

The instant assumption of the word “life” might be a whole mess of creatures and minions. Or possibly bringing back the dead. Both of these are possibilities within biology’s spectrum, but neither are related to the life that Ikiki Ataenushi commands. This new life comes in the form of Ikiki, and it's offspring. Now...I know it must strike curiosity to hear “offspring” mentioned, but that has to wait. First comes the Somatic Cells. They are cells which replicate, rather than reproduce. Somatic cells build up all of the tissues and organs that defines a living creature. With these cells; Ikiki Ataenushi can construct a living body for itself. Boy, does it. The form which Ikiki Ataenushi takes, is the one of it’s own spirit. A tremendous, indomitable figure who showcases the many beauties and dangers of life itself. Normally, Ikiki Ataenushi also maintains the will to act on it's own. Ikiki is independent of it's master. However, Mika’s Ikiki has been lobotomized so as not to express emotions or imagination of it's own accord. This prevents Mika’s version of Bankai from acting independently; forcing him to control it’s every action. Though, the inevitable is still coming. In the form of monstrous fists, causing city crushing shockwaves. Cause again, Ikiki's big.

Ikiki Ataenushi’s body is far larger than most skyscrapers, and made of more biomass than an ecosystem. This new body is built completely of Somatic Cells. These Somatic Cells are merely a new function of Spirit Cells; meaning that Ikiki Ataenushi's body has the same properties as the Shikai blob. This means that Ikiki Ataenushi's body has the ability to change its composition. Transforming from Somatic Cells to bacteria, antibodies, or even poisons. Though the transformation is the same as Shikai; it is far more expensive. Requiring more Reiatsu to manipulate such a colossal mass. When these sorts of transformations happen; they happen at the same speed as Shikai. This can be terrifying, given at how quickly Ikiki Ataenushi's massive body can be reshaped. Whenever Ikiki Ataenushi's Spirit Cells are out of their Somatic form; they are considered the same as the "blob" from Shikai. Except much more massive. It is only when the Spirit Cells are transformed back into Somatic Cells, that they take physical form again. Ah, but what of the Germ Cells that were mentioned before? When does Ikiki Ataenushi become those? The truth is, he never does. Not truly.

Germs Cells are the most unique of all the Spirit Cells. They are the only ones which Ikiki Ataenushi cannot be commanded to transform into. Germ Cells are products created by Ikiki Ataenushi, alone, and only while he is in his own body. Meaning, only when he is formed into Somatic Cells. Germ Cells are emitted by Ikiki Ataenushi; forming on the surface of his body and dispersing into the world. These Germ Cells turn whatever Reishi they touch into Spirit Cells. Reishi could even be latent particles in the inanimate world. At such times; Germ Cells creat Spirit Cells that feed on the present, spiritual energy. These Spirit Cells create mossy, green accumulations of biomass. A trained eye would describe these cells like bacterial film. Touching such accumulations,wherever they are, is the same as contacting Shikai's Field. This can make even the area around Ikiki Ataenushi dangerous; depending on what's festering in the Spirit Cells. The Germ Cells, like the Somatic Cells, are constantly produced until the end of Bankai. Unlike the Somatic Cells; Germ Cells can only be produced when Ikiki Ataenushi is in his natural form. If Mika were to transform Ikiki into anything else, the Germ Cells would be put on pause.

However, there are many reasons for him to leave the behemoth be. Obviously, for his monstrous size and destructive prowess. More subtly, for his uses as an incubator. See, Ikiki Ataenushi can do his master another great service that mere Shikai could not. As a strong bodied soul; Ikiki Ataenushi can stockpile any poison or illness that doesn't kill him. Each horded biological threat, making him stronger. Specifically, the "Bioreishi" compounds which Mika spends night and day developing. Suc compounds, along with natural contagions and toxins, can be stored inside Ikiki Ataenushi. They are isolated in luminescent growths; which may form anywhere on his body. Using these "pods"; Mika can grow and modify whatever chemicals are therein contained. Later on, the dangers might be released. Should anything function these " boils", including Mika, then the contents would usher forth into the world. Considering how deadly the colossus is; knowing it could give you AIDS is a major buzz kill. Now combine that all. A gargantuan stature. Internal, pandemic incubator. Spore-like offspring which constantly seek out energy to turn into Spirit Cells. All of this, AND the sustained ability to transform back into a vast mass of Spirit Cells. Spirit Cells that can be anything they could before. Ikiki Ataenushi is a multifaceted cataclysm of biological, and physical destruction. A Bankai that razes cities, and eradicates species.

”We’re gonna need a bigger boat…” -

Being the first thing often noticed; it only makes sense to address Ikiki Ataenushi's size up front. As has been bluntly put many times, "Ikiki Ataenushi is f*cking huge". Once again...the measurements: 357.239 meters/1172.04396 feet tall, 125.006 meters/ 410.124672 feet wide, and 94.656 meters/310.551181 feet in bulk. A total of 4227054.74 cubic meters, rounded(gonna kill me a city). Taller than any construction of man, and with enough flesh to make an ecosystem. An entire ecosystem. Ikiki Ataenushi is arguably the biggest Bankai that does, or may ever exist. However, there is a reason for this. As a living being, Ikiki Ataenushi's body must reflect the spiritual power that manifests it's existence. Being less controlled than a piece of steel; Ikiki Ataenushi is not so easily compressed and isolated to a manageable form. Instead, just as with life itself, Ikiki Ataenushi erupts past the barriers placed onto it. Just as nothing can contain the wilderness, or eliminate pests in totality. Ikiki cannot be withheld or confined. In the end, the result is a monstrously big body. One that intimidates on size alone, but in truth, possesses all the same weaknesses as smaller lives might. This is because Ikiki Ataenushi is a living being. Despite being exceptional in size, it still has the flaws and needs of any other living creature.

The body crafted by Bankai is quite reminiscent of an ape. Well, in the way that a rectangle is reminiscent of a square. The basic shape is there, with only minor adjustments. Ikiki Ataenushi has four limbs, with two predominant, upper arms. The arms are separated by wide shoulders, and are blessed with tremendous muscularity. Having an upright posture requires that Ikiki Ataenushi have a long spine and a powerful back. With such a massive body; however, Ikiki Artaenushi must constantly fight the oppression of gravity. This resulted in bulky arms and legs, with immense amounts of strength. Strength that exceeds that of similarly scaled bodies. All of this raw size and power comes with the same drawbacks as the common variants. Ikiki Ataenushi is slow. Moving his limbs takes great effort, and comes at a sluggish rate. That said, the rate is sluggish like his strength...to scale. While he is very slow, his size helps bridge the gap between him and his prey. Ikiki Ataenushi moves at a set Speed stat, as a result of his monolithic size. Expanded on later. This speed would increase, were Ikiki Ataenushi smaller. A result of less weight burdening the strength of his mighty form. Were his size cut in half, his speed would double. The same could be said for the opposite effect. Were his size to double, somehow, his speed would reduce by half.

Still, it is not Ikiki Ataenushi's alacrity which hampers him most. There is still his vulnerability and fatigue to consider. Like any living being; Ikiki Ataenushi may be injured and even killed. Comprised of a fundamentally consistent anatomy; it is not difficult for one to imagine how to harm the Bankai. While it's size might turn most attacks into the meager bite of fleas; stronger opponents can inflict major wounds on the gargantuan. Just as with any being, wounds and injuries are detrimental. They can serve to hamper the giant's movements or range of attacks. Even help subdue him, under particular circumstances. While his figure is quite difficult to topple; it is not indestructible. Nor is it tireless. Suffering from enervation and a need for food, like any beast. This is one factor which separates him from most Zanpakuto and their powers. Ikiki Ataenushi requires Reiatsu, and in turn Spirit Cells, be consumed for him to survive. Not just for performing techniques, but as a component of sustenance. Ikiki Ataenushi must be fed the energy held within other Spirit Cells to function. Much the same as humans requiring calories and carbohydrates to power themselves. Other Zanpakuto form weapons from the elements, magical sand, or f*cking angels from Reiatsu. Ikiki Ataenushi cannot survive without burning the necessary "calories", and uses Mika's Reiatsu for such. This represents a need that can't be avoided with reservation. This makes Ikiki Ataenushi one of the most costly Bankai.

Appetite, like all living things, is what restricts Ikiki Ataenushi the most. Hunger is always the plight of the largest, mightiest predators. Biology will always get what is owed to it in the end. This is achieved is through Spirit Cell Consumption. The pesky shortcoming that puts a time limit on Mika's energy, by devouring away his Reiatsu reserves constantly. During Bankai, consumption rates doubles. Meaning Reiatsu costs also double. Raising from a 5% tax, to 10%. Per post. This cost is exhausted from Mika's reserve of Reiatsu. Threatening to drain Mika of his strength to manifest and control his own Zanpakuto. While in his natural body; however, Ikiki Ataenushi can survive quite well. Sating his immense hunger on the "blood of his blood". With Germ Cells being constantly produced from his true body; Ikiki grows Spirit Cells on any Reishi enriched surface. Other souls included. If Ikiki Ataenushi were to consume any of these Spirit Cells, they would be deducted from his consumption costs. Rather than give Mika Reiatsu; these Spirit Cells would simply stem the tide of Reiatsu he has to pay each post. So, if the brute can gorge himself enough, he can keep up the fight till the end of Bankai duration. Otherwise, the giant will collapse long before his due time.

"Do you hear that...it's pregnant." -

In his natural form, Ikiki Ataenushi produces a constant stream of "Germ Cells". When the term "Germ" is used in this context; it means Gamete. For those more properly informed, the explanation is already over. For those still wondering what is going on; it is sex. Yes, Ikiki Ataenushi's Germ Cells are sex cells. These Reishi comprised cells seek out possible "eggs" that they might fertilize. However, they do not reproduce the same way humans or even typical animals do. These eggs do not need to be a certain species or gender...shit, they do not even need to have a form. The eggs which Ikiki Ataenushi's Cells prefer are Reiryoku Particles. That is right, raw Reiatsu. Any Reishi touched by these new Germ Cells, are immediately turned into Spirit Cells. How might this effect be deterred? Well; Germ Cells cannot impregnate any particle that that could resist infection. This follows the same guidelines as the resistances offer to Spiritual Beings. For nonliving particles, such as Reiatsu based attacks or Reishi comprised inanimate objects, then a Spiritual stat superior to Mika's Healing Expertise would suffice. If animate or inanimate Reiatsu alike are infected by Germ Cells, then they will transform into Spirit Cells for the duration of Bankai.

Since this could include the spiritual particles of other souls; many things need to be covered. When Spirit Cells are made out of other souls' Reiatsu(especially RPCs): they cannot be spent and are not recognized as a part of Mika's Reiatsu; they cannot be commanded to transform; Reiatsu attacks or techniques maintain their effects; instantaneous Reiatsu attacks are resolved without any effect; lingering Reiatsu based techniques continue as biological interpretations; and they are not subject to Ikiki Ataenushi's techniques which specify Spirit Cells. That concludes the list of what cannot be done with these new Spirit Cells. Here is what can be done: biological interpretations affect the "flare" of techniques(making them biology themed); biological interpretations allow them to be affected and infected with "BioReishi" compounds; and all new Spirit Cells are subject to consumption(meaning those infected lose 5% of their Spiritual Pressure stat, in Reiatsu, per post). What are some examples of what this all means? An infected opponent would have to consider their Reiatsu as "Spirit Cells" for the duration of Bankai. They can still spend them as normal, but they must lose Reiatsu to consumption. If an infected opponent fired a Reiatsu based attack, Kido or Cero or Step Techniques, then it would occur as usual. Though the attack was comprised of biological mass; it instantaneously converts the mass to effect. Thus, nothing can interrupt it. If a lasting effect were to begin, say Hierro or Blut, then they could be subject to Spirit Cell attack or support. Hierro could be weakened by illness, or Blut could be strengthened by nutrients. All of it subjective to the possible biological effects available. Let me again make it clear...Mika's cannot spend his opponents as Reiatsu. As phenomenal an ability as it would be to drain the power needed to kill his opponents from them...such is impossible. Reiatsu is very particular, only allowing it's progenitor to utilize it. This is a theory, at least. Mika simply cannot do it with his Spirit Cells. His own reservoir of Reiatsu remaining static; no matter how thoroughly Germ Cells impregnate his opponents. The same natural laws which prevent him from spending his opponent's infected Reiatsu as his own; also prevents him from commanding them to obey his whims. Though they share the same makeup as his Spirit Cells; they still belong to his opponent. This ownership goes even further, and prevents Ikiki Ataenushi's techniques from manipulating the Spirit Cells made of opponent's Reishi. Nothing within Ikiki Ataenushi's powers can give Mika control over his opponents Reiatsu.

Well, not intentional control. There are ways for Mika to influence the Reiatsu he infects. Cellular consumption being the first. Since Spirit Cells must consume to remain, and they consume each other, they will passively reduce with time. This applies to Spirit Cells; whether they are Mika's or his opponents'. The rate the opponents' Spirit Cells devour one another is based off Shikai's rate, as Mika's opponents do not pay to feed Ikiki Ataenushi. Thus, the rate is 5% of their Spiritual Pressure stat. This is where it pays to have a disadvantage; since a lower stat results in a slower loss. Besides consumption, there are two more methods of interference which Mika can produce. Techniques, specifically those of "BioReishi" design. These compounds are designed to work with and on Spirit Cells; so there is no way they couldn't apply. They also work outside the constraints which prohibit Ikiki Ataenushi's techniques from applying. If Mika wishes to infect his opponent's Spirit Cells with "Bioreishi" compounds; he has to make contact with their Reishi.

Now. What is the range on this effect? The answer? Limited. Ikiki Ataenushi’s Germ Cells can infect all Reiatsu within an area half the overall size of Ikiki Ataenushi. Approximately 50 meters in every direction from Ikiki Ataenushi's body. This could, and should, be perceived as bad. For the range is based off distance towards Ikiki Ataenushi. The Bankai’s body has to move close to it’s targets in order to spread it’s Germ Cells. That humongous body has to come barreling towards you; preferably making direct, physical contact. Yeah. Hope you like Kaiju Kisses. There is good news amidst all the reproductive closeness. The same rules which applied to "infecting" in Shikai, are the same principles which determine if Germ Cells can “impregnate” in Bankai. Enemies get the same resistances, and Mika incurs the same costs. "Not that such a thing should make anyone feel safer..." I got this, PR is not in your wheelhouse. Now, with Ikiki turning all Reiatsu into useable material for Mika, the enemy must be concerned with attacks from two fronts. The molecular, and the gargantuan. However; this also means that Mika must balance the stress and necessary focus to attack from both fronts. "Psh...like that's a challenge."

"This isn't even my final form..." -

Though it was stated previously that Ikiki Ataenushi retains all his transformations from Shikai; new ones are gained. Somatic and Germ Cells. Both of these have already been covered in great depth. Yet, there are still fine points to the in's and outs of Bankai level transformations. Details which need to be covered. Where to begin...cost seems a legit start. Cost is the number one aspect of most of Ikiki Ataenushi's drawbacks. The predominant theme, if one will. The reason behind this is simple, and biological. Life requires sustenance and energy. For Spiritual Biology, this does not change...it is just easier to identify. Reiatsu makes an amazing scapegoat for life's many, various needs. As such, powerful spirits rely on it heavily. Just like powerful animals rely on powerful, ample nutrients. Being so outrageously vast; Ikiki Ataenushi requires so much more. This extra need is made apparent in all aspects of Bankai. Higher technique costs, higher cellular consumption rate, and of course...increased transformation costs. During Bankai; all transformation costs double. Instead of a mere 100 Reiatsu each shift, it is now 200. This penalty becomes worse when applied to special cases that already require additional cost. Example? Transforming Spirit Cells behaving as poisons, back into any other form of Spirit Cells. This particular transformation already costs double, so now it is quadruple. This would make the cost 400 Reiatsu. 400...just to change shape. That is as much as activating Bankai; even more so for some people. Sadly, the increases do not stop there. As was mentioned in Shikai's description; it is more costly to transform Spirit Cells into their Somatic form. Exactly the same as reverting out of poison, reverting back to Somatic Cells costs double. So reforming Ikiki Ataenushi into his natural body costs 400 Reiatsu. If this seems coincidental to the cost of Bankai, what formed his body originally, that is because it is intentional. Those who noticed win a cookie from Mika..."I am a terrible baker." Moving on. As with everything else, these costs stack. Transforming into Somatic Cells from poison; costs a whopping 800 Reiatsu. Yet, all these costs are fitting...and just. After all, what other Bankai fights microscopically and monolithically? Honestly, the Ten Plagues were less brutal.

"Medical books aren't written about losers..." -

Having the largest form of any current known Bankai and the ability to transform into various masterpieces of life; Ikiki Ataenushi seems set to beat just about any challenge. It seems unnecessary to enhance his arsenal anymore than what has been given. Nature; though, is not one for stopping short. Typically, when something is good...it is actually great. The same goes for Ikiki Ataenushi's body. It is not just great, it is astounding. There are more talents than mere size and morphism...there is also constitution. Few beings are as healthy as Ikiki Ataenushi, and none showcase their status better. For Ikiki Ataenushi is so healthy; he can survive the machinations of Mika. So strong is this living Bankai; that when faced with both natural or engineered opposition, it only grows stronger. "How does this come to be?", one might ask. Ikiki Ataenushi's new body is rather slow, all that bulk taking a lot of time and energy to move about. Just like any standard living creature, Ikiki Ataenushi requires nutrients to operate. As was mentioned before. With a sluggish body and Reiatsu costs put together; dodging seems rather unlikely for Ikiki Ataenushi. In fact, there won't be any dodging.

This is not necessarily the weakness it may appear to be. For the body of Ikiki Ataenushi is still a gigantic collection of Spirit Cells. Cutting him opens his veins and tissue, and allows blood and bile to pour out. Attacking him at all forces him to move and struggle; which mean deep breathes and prolific sweating. Ikiki Ataenushi is a living being after all. When his body suffers from activity or injury; all sorts of effects and fluids come into the picture. Each of these compounds, from breath to bile, all contain a story. Dozens of stories...actually. Those stories are actually tales of when Mika extracted Spirit Cells from Ikiki. From when he created terrible, monstrous things. Every one of those biological weapons are present in the plasm. Whatever new: plagues, cures, poisons, or steroids Mika uses on Ikiki Ataenushi, become trapped in his biology. Inside of his body, the ”BioReishi” compounds are stored. Once a compound has started germinating within Ikiki Ataenushi, it can be used by Mika whenever Ikiki Ataenushi’s bodily fluids infect a person. However, there are drawbacks to this living repository of disease and malady. Stored compounds form into large, luminous growths beneath the skin.

They can be seen, glowing and growing all over his body. They are very easy to see. This is because their placement within his anatomy is random; eventually leading him to look like a Christmas Tree. These glowing pods of sickness are very weak, and can be ruptured with any level of attack. Almost as if they were designed to do so. That’s because they were. When a pod is ruptured; Ikiki Ataenushi loses the ability to convey that compound through his bodily fluids. However; for the duration of the posts in which the pod was ruptured, Spirit Cells are dispersed from the wound. “Posts” refers to a single post from each person involved in the thread(one full post rotation), following the pods destruction. Think of it like the fungal pod on a mushroom becoming agitated or disturbed. The dispersal has no actual range, but travels only as fast as the wind is blowing. Not at all if there is no air current. Though that is unlikely; given Ikiki Ataenushi's ability to create open spaces. Even though the spores can travel as far as they can be carried, they only have until the end of all the posts to utilize their effects. Spores which fail to attach to a Spiritually Aware body die off immediately. This means that nonSpiritual barriers and debris can be used to intercede and deflect these dangerous spores. These Spore Cells can even be blown away with significant force, but won’t become inactive and harmless until after the posts end.

Bankai's Hard Facts -

Another TL;DR. When Bankai is released; Ikiki Ataenushi takes on a tremendous, physical form. The new body acts as the foci in Bankai; which means it is the center point for the "Communicable Field", so long as it exists. The Field being the area in which Mika can infect targets with Spirit Cells. The bodies dimensions are: 357.239 meters/1172.04396 feet tall, 125.006 meters/ 410.124672 feet wide, and 94.656 meters/310.551181 feet in bulk. A total of 4227054.74 cubic meters, rounded(gonna kill me a city). The overall area also covers how far Mika's “Communicable Field" now has effect; rather than continuing to be based off his Spiritual Pressure stat. This body has proportional Strength, Speed, and Endurance. This body's Strength stat is considered 200 for the sake of enemies overpowering. This body's Speed stat is considered 200 for the sake of enemies outpacing. Both stats are proportional to Ikiki Ataenushi's size; which begins at a 200/1 ratio. Since he is 200 times the size of a average Shinigami. Speed can double; if Ikiki Ataenushi's size is cut by at least half. It can also be halved if Ikiki Ataenushi's size increases by at least double. These speed alterations stack. The same applies to Strength, but in reverse. I.E. If Ikiki Ataenushi's body is reduced by half it's size to become 100/1 in ratio; Strength halves to 100 and Speed doubles to 400. The reverse being a body increase to 400/1; Strength doubles to 400 and Speed halves to 100. Ikiki Ataenushi's body adheres to the same physics and mechanics of typical, living anatomy. As a living creature, Ikiki Ataenushi has all the same weakness and flaws of normal biology.

During Bankai; Cellular Consumption doubles from 5% to 10%. This is to account for feeding the new, massive accumulation of Spirit Cells. This 10% is still applied to the Spirit Pressure stat(like Shikai). A 400 Spiritual Pressure stat would cost 40 Reiatsu to maintain each post. 1000 would cost 100 Reiatsu each post. While in his natural form(Spirit Cells treated as Somatic Cells, aka "Godzilla Mode"); Ikiki Ataenushi produces a constant stream of Germ Cells. Germ Cells convert all Reiatsu they touch into Spirit Cells. For Germ Cells to infect a target; Ikiki Ataenushi must be within 50 meters of them, and they must bypass the resistances and costs of typical infections. "Typical infections" refers to the Shikai system of infecting a target with Spirit Cells. Ergo: 50 Reiatsu for the head and limbs; 100 for the torso; 50 Reiatsu for an entire organ; 100 for an entire organ system(circulatory, respiratory, nervous, digestive). Each of these costs half as much on small targets, or those under 100 lbs. These cost compound for larger targets, starting at 500 lbs. Each time mass doubles after that, so does cost. 500 lbs equals doubled costs; 1,000 lbs equals tripled costs; 10,000 lbs equals quadrupled costs; 500,000 lbs equals quintupled costs; 50,000,000 lbs equals sextupled.

Paying Reiatsu is not the only requirement. External targets, such as the limbs and torso, require a bleeding wound. The same goes for the head. To target the heart, lungs, or brain; Mika must have the Spirit Cells inhaled. Inhalation also requires 2 posts to take effect. To target the stomach or other digestive organs; Mika must have the Spirit Cells fully consumed. To target filter organs such as the Lymph Nodes, liver, kidneys, pancreas, etc; Mika must create two or more bleeding wounds on the body. Infection of the organs requires 2 posts to take effect. Finally come entire organ systems. The processes for inhabiting these systems is the same as the individual organs within them. The difference? They take 4 posts, and thus meet the singular organ requirement a total of 2 times before taking effect. This does not alter the cost; which remains 100 Reiatsu for standard targets. The cost simply cannot be paid until after 4 posts, and the requirements in each have passed. Unwilling targets receive resistances to Spirit Cell infection beyond the manner which they must be infected. To resist having the blood of an open wound being infected; an opponent’s Reiatsu Strength or Healing Expertise stats must exceed Mika's Healing Expertise stat. To resist becoming infected by inhalation; an opponent's Spiritual Pressure or Healing Expertise stats must exceed Mika's Healing Expertise. To resist becoming infected by consumption; an opponent’s Strength or Healing Expertise stats must exceed Mika’ Healing Expertise stat. If any of these conditions are met, an enemies anatomy can be turned into Spirit Cells.

When infecting their unspent Reiatsu; enemies need only be caught within 50 meters of Ikiki Ataenushi's body. There are no resistances or special conditions to inhibit Germ Cells from transforming raw Reiatsu. Enemies who have their Reiatsu/bodies turned to Spirit Cells cannot: they cannot be spent and are not recognized as a part of Mika's Reiatsu; they cannot be commanded to transform; Reiatsu attacks or techniques maintain their effects; instantaneous Reiatsu attacks are resolved without any effect; lingering Reiatsu based techniques continue as biological interpretations; and they are not subject to Ikiki Ataenushi's techniques which specify Spirit Cells. Enemies who have their Reiatsu/bodies turned into Spirit Cells: biological interpretations affect the "flare" of techniques(making them biology themed); biological interpretations allow them to be affected and infected with "BioReishi" compounds; and all new Spirit Cells are subject to consumption(meaning those infected lose 5% of their Spiritual Pressure stat, in Reiatsu, per post). Ikiki Ataenushi still possesses the ability to transform as Spirit Cells. In Bankai; the cost of transforming is doubled. 200 Reiatsu, instead 100. This stacks with conditions that already increase transformation costs. Reverting back to any form of Spirit Cells from poison ones; costs 400 Reiatsu. Reverting back to Ikiki Ataenushi's natural body(Somatic Cells); costs 400 Reiatsu. These special conditions can stack with each other. Transforming from poison Spirit Cells into Ikiki Ataenushi's natural body; costs 800(f*cking) Reiatsu.

While Ikiki Ataenushi remains in his natural form; Mika may directly infect him with "Bioreishi" compounds and other natural maladies. Ikiki Ataenushi can save any poison or sickness placed directly into it; incubating them in pods. These growths are luminous, and glow with specific colors for specific infections. While infected in such a manner; Ikiki Ataenushi can transfer the effects of the trapped compound through any of his bodily fluids. These pods are easily ruptured by any attack, of any strength. If ruptured; Ikiki Ataenushi looses the ability to transfer the contained compound through bodily fluids. When ruptured; the contents of the pods spread like fungal spores. Spirit Cells dispersed from the wound retain the effects of the compound, previously trapped, until the end of the posts. “Posts” refers to a single post from each person involved in the thread(one full post rotation), following the pods destruction. Think of it like the fungal pod on a mushroom becoming agitated or disturbed. The dispersal has no actual range, but travels only as fast as the wind is blowing. Not at all if there is no flowing air current. Though that is unlikely; given Ikiki Ataenushi's ability to create open spaces. Even though the spores can travel as far as they can be carried, they only have until the end of all the posts to utilize their effects. Spores which fail to attach to a Spiritually Aware body, die off immediately. This means that nonSpiritual barriers and debris can be used to intercede and deflect these dangerous spores. These Spore Cells can even be blown away with significant force, but won’t become inactive and harmless until after the posts end.

Bankai Techniques -

Just the same as Shikai; Mika cannot use Ikiki Ataenushi's Bankai Techniques. Experimentation, and misuse of the technique known as Soulbind, have lead to Ikiki Ataenushi losing its self awareness. It has been stripped of emotion and passion, thus rendering its techniques inert. However; this crippling status is once again limited to the physical Zanpakuto that Mika wields. Within his Inner World is a different Ikiki Ataenushi; one unmodified or altered by Mika's endless experiments. That Zanpakuto is untouched by trauma; therefore, retains all of its personality and functionality. Bankai’s techniques are available to the Inner Hollow, exclusively.

{"Ikino Suimin"}

Description: "Breath's Slumber". Though Ikiki Ataenushi is a awesome sight to behold, with his massive size and imposing phenotypes, he is a very undynamic soul. In no way is this better emphasised than with “Ikino Suimin”; an overwhelming version of "Nikono Negai". When commanded to perform this ability; the Bankai’s gargantuan body curls up into the tightest ball it can manage. With displaceable joints and collapsable bones, this is a very small fetal position. Just less than a third the size of the stretched Ikiki Ataenushi. Held up like this, the vital points of his body are all concealed and withdrawn. It is then that the Bankai begins to slumber, a sudden and restful sleep. The behemoth’s breath slows to nearly nothing. His mind slips away into a peaceful sleep. This is exceptionally good when the stresses of battle are becoming too great for the creature. Ikiki Ataenushi has made for himself, a cocoon. Just like those found in nature; this chrysalis serves as protector. A sanctuary in which Ikiki Ataenushi’s body might be remade. While locked away from the world; the massive creature will undergo many drastic changes. Some of the changes will seem natural. Others will seem clearly engineered by a darker imagination than Nature’s. Though it is impossible to detect with the Senses; there is quite a lot of activity to see. If seen through a lense of Energy Sensory, onlookers can see a significant gathering of energy. Those with significant skill in the healing arts can also detect changes in Ikiki Ataenushi’s anatomy, as though it were being mended at an accelerated rate. This would not be false, either. For even though Ikiki Ataenushi is altering it’s body, it is doing so with materials harvested from within. By sacrificing it’s own flesh and tissue; Mika can mold Ikiki Ataenushi with a more preferential hand. All of this occurs during the Bankai’s rest. When the slumber ends; Ikiki Ataenushi’s body begins to peel and crack. From these supposed wounds, the Bankai will claw itself to freedom. The former body shed; just like a carapace. What emerges is still Ikiki Ataenushi, just transformed from the original body. Evolved to better deal with the task at hand. Or at least, evolved to better fit Mika’s demands. All of this coming to pass...only if the cocoon remains intact till the process’ end. If a daring enemy succeeded in breaching the cocoon before it’s time, well...the results would be far different.

Effect: Ikiki Ataenushi seals itself into a cocoon, by assuming the fetal position. It then remains immobile for any number of posts within Bankai’s duration. “Ikino Suimin” alters Ikiki Ataenushi’s body with a physical modifications. For each post the technique was active; one physical change can be chosen and assigned to Ikiki Ataenushi’s new body, including: growing wings, extra limbs, extra organs, improving existing features, etc. The cocoon which surrounds Ikiki Ataenushi is formed from it’s own flesh. If the cocoon is breached before Mika willingly ends the effects of “Ikino Suimin”, no more alterations can be made. Prior alterations are not reversed if the cocoon is damaged. If the cocoon is breached, the wound will spew both gas and mucus. The gas disperses 10 cubic meters per post, for 4 posts. Starting in the first post, the gas has a set Speed of 400. For the second post, the gas’ Speed is 200. For the third post, the gas’ Speed is 100. For the last post, the gas’ Speed is 50. Following the 4 posts; the gas loses all speed and effects. The mucus oozes outwards for 10 cubic meters, a single post. The mucus travels at a set Speed of 25. Following the first post; the mucus loses all speed and effects. The gas is faintly green in color, and smells acrid. The mucus is dark yellow in color, and carries faint odours of decaying flesh. The gas is extremely caustic, and can dissolve flesh with the same potency of stomach acid. The gas has no effect on inorganic materials. The gas’ acidity can be neutralized with chemical countermeasures or the cocoon’s mucus. The mucus is extremely viscous, and quite sticky. It requires 100 or more Strength to escape the adhesive hold. The mucus contains Spirit Cells, and contact with it “saturates” anatomy with Spirit Cells. In addition, the mucus carries mutagenic qualities. Whatever changes were last applied to Ikiki Ataenushi by “Ikino Suimin”, can be applied by the mucus. Rules for applying mutations are the same as Spirit Cells trying to infect; similar requirements and resistances per specific, targeted area. Mutated anatomy is permanent in the case of DE threads.

Drawbacks: Iki Ataenushi becomes immobile from the first post, till his release, whenever “Ikino Suimin” is activated. “Ikino Suimin” cannot be active for less than one full post. The cocoon created by "Ikino Suimin" can be breached with any offensive stat greater than Mika's superior Spiritual stat. Ikiki Ataenushi’s overall size, both mass and dimensions, shrink by half each post(total size becomes: 50% after the first post, 25% after the second, 12.5% after the third, and so on). The area in which Ikiki Ataenushi can infect Reiryoku with his Germ is also reduced proportionally(total distance becomes: 25 meters after the first post, 12.5 after the second, 6.75 after the third, and so on).

Cost: 600 Reiatsu

{"Nikuno Saisei"}

Description: "Flesh's Rebirth", another equally disappointing show for the eyes. An empowered variation of "Nikuno Kaifuku". Though “Ikino Suimin” produces a very dramatic change in Ikiki Ataenushi’s appearance at the end, “Nikuno Saisei” does not have so climactic a finish. Rather, it’s effects become noticeable immediately, to all who should be concerned. Though there is nothing much to see, other than Ikiki Ataenushi taking in a massive breath, as if getting ready to roar; there is certainly much to feel. “Nikuno Saisei” affects everyone who is currently infected with some sort of Spirit Cell. It does this, by sending out a new biological command to all of the Spirit Cells within range of Ikiki Attaenushi’s aura. Those Spirit Cells are commanded to “cycle”. Using the genome within all biological DNA which commands a cell to reproduce; "Nikuno Saisei" gives all Spirit Cells the go ahead to replicate. This molecular edict is then carried into the nonSpirit Cells. Those cells then attempt to resist the way same way they resisted infection, before. Upon success; all Spirit Cells not within Ikiki Ataenushi will begin to rapidly reproduce. Any limbs or organs that were lent by Ikiki Ataenushi's abilities will “cycle” fastest. Any tissue or flesh infected by his Spirit Cells will follow in the milliseconds after them. Cells that have not been replaced or infected will follow last. These cells will react as normal tissue, and follow the tendencies of their neighbors. Blame natural, chemical programming for that. These are the only warnings that anyone could expect. It would be in every opponent's best interest to have Ikiki Ataenushi build them a superficial organ or two...if only for the early warning. What is the purpose of all of this? What comes from having every possible cell replicate? Well, a possibility is cancer. As dreadful as that sounds, it is not the true aim. With every cell in the body reproducing themselves; a body will be overloaded with energy needs. The patients will first show signs of an intense fever. Their body will begin to ache and shiver. Those affected will rapidly shed dead skin and hair. Their skin will turn paler as new layers grow, and the opposite will happened for their new hair. The coloration of their nails will shift as they quickly grow out what nail exists, and have it all replaced. Piercings and other tears in the flesh will heal. The entire body will be reformed as if it were new. This will happen rapidly; requiring vast amounts of energy. Energy the body itself must find and pay. They will experience a dramatic fatigue and loss of weight. Their fat cells and energy reserves will be quickly consumed; to accommodate the dramatic needs. Fluids will build up in their Lymph Nodes as the wastes of countless parent cells are processed. Two things ultimately come of this. An entire body is made fresh and new; mended of all wounds. That same body is also stripped of all fat, and left desperate for energy. They will be hungry. They will feel weak; fatigued as if by great labor or long battle. This is not a punishment, but it is the price of full recovery and rebirth.

Effect: “Nikuno Saisei” commands all Spirit cells outside of Ikiki Ataenushi, but within range of his Field, to "cycle". This order is the same as the biological coding for replication. The reproducing Spirit Cells influence the systems of those they inhabit; causing all the cells to die and be reborn. They cause symptoms reminiscent of illness, before reproducing as fresh cells. This causes: high fevers, fatigue, swelling, and an accumulation of fluids in the Lymph Nodes. Patients subjected to "Nikuno Saisei" are healed of all wounds and illness, but their bodies expend tremendous cellular energy. Those affected will be very hungry, and very tired. Requiring either 4 posts of rest, or regaining Reiatsu equal to 20% of total Reiatsu to recuperate. Ironically; "Nikuno Saisei" will always lead to a miscarriage if used on pregnant beings. The developing fetus is always recycled as energy.

Drawbacks: “Nikuno Saisei” has a range limited by Ikiki Ataenushi’s Field. All effects being carried by Spirit Cells, thus affecting those infected, cease. After one post, all of the Spirit Cells die, meaning none survive to do further harm. Mika is equally susceptible to the effects of "Nikuno Saisei" as any opponent. Having a Healing Expertise stat exceeding 200 gives one knowledge of the techniques effects as soon as they begin. Having a Healing Expertise stat exceeding 1000 makes one immune to "Nikuno Sansei".

Cost: 600 Reiatsu

{"Ikito Niku no Niwa"}

Description: "Garden of Breath and Flesh", eventually there was bound to be one flashy Technique in this Bankai’s repertoire. That is “Ikito Niku no Niwa”. It starts with a very noticeable shift in the world around Ikiki Ataenushi. Not just one in the Spiritual Particles, like before. Not only does the air pressure for miles begin to shift, but so does Ikiki Ataenushi’s appearance. The massive organism begins to glow from the inside. Starting deep down in his gut, a green light appears. As time passes the green light shifts to a very bright and beautiful orange. From there it continues still, blazing like a fire in his belly, till it turns a dark crimson. Like the color of dying leaves in the fall. This final shift is barely noticed however, as more changes have begun. While the glow is still fiery; Ikiki Ataenushi’s body begins to shrink. Not like before, during the metamorphosis; this time it is as though he is shriveling. In many ways it appears as though the enormous bankai is dying...wilting and withering away to nothing. Until, poof. The body of the massive creature explodes. Though the dispersion of his remains is much like the aftermath of a cataclysmic eruption; there is no actual destruction. No great emission of pressure. No destructive energy. No heat or fallout. It is as though Ikiki Ataenushi’s body bursts into nothing. Becoming mere Breath in the Wind. However, Ikiki Ataenushi is not gone. Not completely. What was his body has now become spread throughout the world. Like an instantaneous eden. The landscape and those who occupy it without the blessing of cover; are decorated with a layer of thick flesh. The tissue rries no foul odour, and soon after bears little resemblance to gore. Ikiki Ataenushi's remains create this"garden"; his body becoming an ecosystem. Everywhere his former innards touch, begin to burst and bubble with life. Plants, animals, and even bacteria all thrive in this Bankai biome. Anything touched by the fresh "soil" Ikiki Ataenushi's corpse lays; becoming imbued with a lasting spiritual significance. Truly...a more beautiful demise than any spirit could hope for.

Effect: “Ikito Niku no Niwa” causes Ikiki Ataenushi’s body to disperse as nothing more than Spirit Cells. By spreading Ikiki Ataenushi’s mass out in such a thin way, it covers a distance of 1800 meters in each direction. An effective diameter of nearly 4 kilometers. Every thing caught within “Ikito Niku no Niwa” is considered "saturated" by Spirit Cells. "Ikito Niku no Niwa" creates an ecosystem where all live becomes Spiritually Aware. This means all plants and animals(bacteria included). Any previously Spiritually Aware occupants become invigorated. By consuming any living tissue (plant or animal) that is imbued with power; Spiritual Beings may restore 10% of their total Reiatsu. Recovering Reiatsu with "Ikito Niku no Niwa" means willingly consuming Ikiki Ataenushi's Spirit Cells. Any effects that were active inside of Ikiki Ataenushi before "Ikito Niku no Niwa" was activated, may be applied to those who regain Reiatsu. "Ikito Niku no Niwa" will turn affected, nonSpiritual Humans into Class 8 Fullbringers. The environment created by Ikiki Ataenushi has no duration, and will not dissipate until destroyed by external means.

Drawbacks: “Ikito Niku no Niwa” requires that the body of Ikiki Ataenushi to be sacrificed, and for Bankai to end. Mika may not recover Bankai if "Ikito Niku no Niwa" was activated. Reiatsu recovered with "Ikito Niku no Niwa" lasts for 8 posts, and dissipates if not used. Life imbued with Spiritual Awareness are considered "infected" with Spirit Cells, but cannot be manipulated as Spirit Cells. These living beings follow the same rules as other "infected beings" during Shikai and Bankai.

Cost: 800 Reiatsu

Soul Bind Ikiki Ataenushi

"It is true, we shall be monsters, cut off from all the world; but on that account we shall be more attached to one another."

Introduction

There exists no Zanpakuto more fitting for Soul Bind than Ikiki Ataenushi. Mika's Zanpakuto was always a power defined in the flesh. The very identity of Ikiki is built in a temple of tissue, and orchestrated through organs. Considering the ability of the Zanpakuto was the creation and manipulation of living biomass; what better way could it be enhanced? Yes. All the yes. Fusing the pipe with a living, fleshy soul was the only way to increase potency. Ikiki was always meant to be a living being, after all. The fusion comes more naturally than any other Shinigami could ever dare to compare. Mika and Ikiki become a singular soul. A singular life form. Each contributes a bit of spirit and flesh; establishing the most compchartreusentary of coexistence. Truthfully, there are no words to describe the hybridization of flesh and steel. "Yet, you continue to try." I do, indeed. I suppose I could spend time with flattery? I could describe the academic potential and scientific possibilities? There is so much that could be learned in the union of a biology-based Zanpakuto and it's biological master. In fact, I'm surprised that me skipping such talk is going uninterupt..."Oh. Oh no."...ed. Ah, there it is..."I would not interrupt; not before you have had the chance to drop the ball." How kind..."Besides, I am eager to hear you tell them just what the singularity of myself and Ikiki can do..." Huh, well then, let's get into that. Before seeing the horrors which the madman will unleash, let's discuss the symptoms. There should be no problem identifying the warning signs of Soul Bind if one pays close attention. It always begins the same way; with Kurosawa taking a deep drag of his pipe. So deep, in fact, that it dissolves away into him. Inhaled as it dissolves into pure energy. Once inhaled, the binding process is complete. Yes, it is that fast. There is no transformation. No flinching, convulsing, or energy bursts. One minute Jekyll, and the next..."HIDE.." God d*amnit. Yes, that. When bound to Ikiki Ataenushi; Mika Kurosawa is no long quite himself. Not that he is anyone different, either. The scientist is simply possessed by what impulses remain inside of Ikiki Ataenushi's "mind". Normally the lobotomized spirit is quite docile, but when it is given Mika's exceptional brain to roam around in..."It makesss....the mooassst ov eet." Sad thing is, that is only half of it. All intriguing circumstances aside, there are far more barbaric implications of this new resident. A newly granted array of abilities; to compensate the techniques lost along with Mika's and Ikiki's individualities. So...let's jump on in this vat of amino acids.

Living Form

Ikiki's ability was always to create Spirit Cells; by transforming Mika's available Reiatsu. Now that the two share a body, Ikiki's power is not restricted to the Reiatsu alone. Think of the Zanpakuto as a virus. One that has finally been given unlimited access. No immunity allowed. Rather than surround Mika with an aura; Soul Bind transforms Mika's body into the Spirit Cells. Into the "Communication Field" mentioned before. The Reiatsu that once frolicked about in their airborne fashion, now collects within a solid form. Ikiki and Mika joining bodies creates quite a noticeable shift in phenotype. "Thass lookss, for all yew troglodytesss." It is important to make note of the physical changes; they are the best indicators of what is to come. Mika absorbs all of the Spirit Cells in the form of: muscle, bone, and tendon density, as well as fat deposits. If it were possible to make the one-armed wonder even more asymmetrical and disfigured, this process will do so. Shoulders and hips both become broadened, and more sturdy. These areas do not necessarily grow equally, and might cause the new body to slouch to one direction or another. Upon the shoulders, at the top of the back, a large hump will form. Much like a hunchback in appearance, the flesh is actually a massive, elastic grouping of muscle bands. Functioning similarly to a fly; this muscle collection provides great strength to the otherwise disfigured figure. In reality, this is merely a balancing act. Mika's physical might does not increase in raw power. As for the major joints: shoulders, elbows, wrists, thighs, knees, and ankles, all become sturdier. Sinewy stretches of dense muscle and tendons reinforce these areas. Add it all up, and there’s quite a grotesque site. However, the change in body shape is not the only mentionable shift. All along Kurosawa's body, in varying patches of color saturation, his skin turns green. In the places where the most Spirit Cells were absorbed, the coloration is darker. It would not be inaccurate to say, Mika appears to be infected with a mixture of Gangrene and Leprosy. The added weight does just as much to hinder the strength as it does to help it, so in the end, the Shinigami is unimproved physically. Ah, but how likely is the enemy to even notice this shift? "Oh, theyl notisss..." Yes, yes they will. Especially when the clothes go. Mika is very unlikely to stay in his natural body. As such, the clothes will only last as long as a suitable figure exists within them. So, "Hueha, not very long...", yeah...

So what exactly are the new manifestations of power that Soul Bind allows? A name Mika would like to see coined is "Vitae Novo"; which is rather blunt. Just like before, Ikiki allows his master to alter life itself. Now the tissue that Mika manipulates is his own flesh. If he wants to use any of the general traits of his power, he has to find a way to make it work through his body. Say he wanted to infect his opponent with bacteria, he would only need to touch them, or sneeze onto them. The cells which leave, or fly, from his body when this occurs will take the form of bacteria. Maybe he wants to combat a poison that has backfired? Turning inward, Mika will produce as many antibodies as he needs to secure his health. Oh, and what of those poisons he made from Spirit Cells before? Not only the Lipid Vial compounds, but the alkaloids he made? Now he can produce those by eating one of those Lipid Vials to access the contents, or by creating venom sacs within his body. Yeah, that's right, he can make himself poisonous. In fact, he can make himself most anything. The Shinigami becomes a mound of living resources; capable of being shaped like clay. Whatever form or function the dreamer may wish, the body can accommodate. Should he desire his body to be covered in chitinous plates of armor? So be it. Should additional appendages, or ones of greater functionality, be the goal? It will be done. Mika becomes a manipulator of his own anatomy. Utilizing his Reiatsu reserves like a developing fetus might use nutrients offered through it's mother. Kurosawa will break apart his body and rebuild it too a higher standard. Adding, subtracting, or reimagining whatever qualities he likes. So, shapeshifting would be the most acceptable descriptor of the process which is herein undertook. Ah, but there are limitations to such freedom of form. The foremost is simple; all changes require biomass, and biomass costs Reiatsu. Were it his plan to grow wings, there would be a cost of Reiatsu. The Reiatsu cost of changing his body does not represent cells spent to make an appendage or organ. Nothing "new" is ever made. What exists is only altered. Everything comes from what is. The cost in question is actually a nutrient exchange, to stimulate Spirit Cell activity. Some Spirit Cells are destroyed, so their nutrients and energy can be used by the transforming cells. Essentially, Spirit Cell cannibalism. The cost of transformations is as such: 50 Reiatsu to transform a limb, 100 to modify the torso or organs therein, and half the price of each to repair physical wounds. A full post duration is needed to form any new part for the whole; making the process much slower than High-Speed Regeneration. The greatest downside would be the one's that plague Ikiki Ataenushi, as well. First, the temperature concerns. When Soul Bound flesh is exposed to temperatures beneath -160°F/-71°C, it's reaction rate is reduced. Each post spent exposed to such temperatures, his movement and reaction speed are cut in half. When Soul Bound flesh is exposed to temperatures above 160°F/71°C, it may no longer receive "commands" to alter it's state. In addition, each post that the flesh spent exposed to such heat results in a 10% loss of Reiatsu. For these temperatures to have effect, whether hot or cold, requires a full rotation of posts. Meaning, the Spirit Cells must remain exposed for one post per participant of the thread, or encounter. In addition, the new body will burn Reiatsu by 10% each post it is active. A cost based off of the Spiritual Pressure stat. As costly as Ikiki ataenushi’s body in Bankai, rather than Shikai’s Field. However, there is a solution to this problem that did not exist for regular Ikiki Ataenushi.

Addictive Appetite

We have seen that Soul Bind grants Mika a new appearance. We have discussed how his body becomes host to a Spirit Cell virus. We have described how he can transform his body into any new biological form he chooses; at the cost of time and energy. Is that all this new physiology can offer? The answer; hell to the nah. When Soul Bound to Ikiki Ataenushi; Kurosawa's Reiatsu reserve will begin to deplete as it would in Shikai or Bankai. Unlike Shikai or Bankai, Mika is a self possessed monster that is most unsatisfied with the idea of "starving to death”. Rather than let the energy drain out of him, rather than wither away, Kurosawa seeks to fill his reserves. This is accomplished with the most gruesome new feature of his Zanpakuto modified body. It begins with a jaw which may quickly and easily dislocate itself. Able to spread open his mouth to most outrageous of breadths. Mika may attempt to bite and rend his opponents with his spiritually strengthened teeth. If he is able to take big enough bites, then he can get a mouthful of his prey’s Spiritual Particles. Their very Reiatsu. By eating spiritually potent beings, Kurosawa can restore the energy he is losing with each Soul Bound moment. Without modifying his body; Mika has a bite strength equal to his Strength stat. What makes this very dangerous; is the potential for the bite to change. There are ways for the bite to become more dangerous, of course. After all, the Shinigami has the ability to adapt his body to any challenge presented.

Now, what constitutes a big enough bite? Well a single bite, a mouthful, is guaranteed to restore 10% of Kurosawa's Reiatsu reserves. This is based of Mika’s Spiritual Pressure stat, as well. If this seems at all convenient, that is because it is. Assuming Mika can take one bite out of his opponent each post, he can stave off Reiatsu hunger indefinitely. However, there are downsides which plague this natural process. Aside from the glaring concern that Kurosawa needs to actually eat portions of his opponent for sustenance; there is also the unsavoriness to contend with. See, Mika can only eat what exists. If an opponent has no Reiatsu left, then Kurosawa will get half the sustenance from eating them. Not only are drained opponents unappetizing, but so are nonliving productions of Reiatsu. It is impossible for Mika to chew or digest Kido, Cero, or anything that resembles such things. Let's just assume he is a picky eater...one that prefers fatty foods. Final downside when it comes to selection; self. Kurosawa, if it were not clear, cannot eat portions of himself for sustenance. He may do so to sooth his appetite, or indulge his sadomasochistic tendencies, but not for energy. In the end, this portion of Soul Bind is more of a condition, rather than ability. A give and take of biological qualities. Still, no one should like the idea of Mika wanting to take a bite of them.

Soul Bind Hard Facts

By fusing himself with Ikiki Ataenushi, Mika turns his body into Spirit Cells. Any abilities previously possible with Spirit Cells, are now interpreted through bodily functions. Spirit Cells as bacteria, requires contact with silica or possibly sneezing and coughing. Spirit Cells as Stem Cells now interprets as body repair, costing the same amount as it did when attempting to infect similar locations. Spirit Cells as alkaloid poisons is when he creates venom glands for himself. Stem Cells as Somatic Cells allow him to transform his figure. Such as transforming into any anatomical form he can imagine, at the cost of Reiatsu and time. It costs 50 Reiatsu to transform a single limb; 100 to transform the torso or organs therein; or half the transformation cost to repair any individual portion. Spirit Cells as Stem Cells would require him to extract spinal fluid from himself...something far easier done than one might realize. As for Spirit Cells as Germ Cells...look, guy would have to drop trow. Anyways...

Just like regular Spirit Cells, Soul Bind has temperature sensitivity. When Soul Bound flesh is exposed to temperatures beneath -160°F/-71°C, it's reaction rate is reduced. This cuts: Spirit Cell transforming speed; Mika’s physical speed; Mika’s reaction time; and doubles Mika’s recovery delays. When Soul Bound flesh is exposed to temperatures above 160°F/71°C, it may no longer receive "commands" to alter it's state. In addition, each post that the flesh spend exposed to such heat results in a 10% loss of Reiatsu. For these temperatures to have effect, whether hot or cold, requires a full rotation of posts. Meaning, the Spirit Cells must remain exposed for one post per participant of the thread, or encounter. Every post, Mika's Reiatsu reserve depletes by 10% of the remaining total. This is based off of Mika’s Spiritual Pressure stat, just like Shikai and Bankai. It is possible for Soul Bound Mika to restore his Reiatsu, by consuming a "mouthful" of another spiritual being's flesh. Consuming a mouthful restores 10% of his Reiatsu. This is also based off of Mika’s Spiritual Pressure stat. Opponents with no remaining Reiatsu restore half the energy when consumed. Mika may not eat his own flesh to restore Reiatsu...but may do so to get off on it.

Mask Appearance:

Conjuring one's Vizard Mask is usually a dramatic affair. There is often a symbolic, or intimidating, gesture of the hand. The mask often appears in a wave of dark Reiatsu. These would be considered the norms, and as such, would never apply to Mika. When drawing on the power of his mask, Mika violently regurgitates a mass of white liquid. Though this would usually take several seconds of disturbing heaving, something twisted allows it to happen instantly for Mika. In fact, it happens so quickly and with such ease; that the Shinigami can keep doing whatever he was before. Except talking, or singing or smiling. Either way, the vomited mass of Reiatsu suddenly grapples his head. The writhing mass taking rigid shape in the flash of an eye. Though the formation is hasty; it doesn't spare any of the dreadful, guttural noises that might be expected from such an ordeal. Hell, even though the mask hardens into bone; it still drips with bile and slime as if freshly born. With his mask settled, Mika looks like a toad. The Mask he wears is quite large for his body, much like a frogs head occupies a good portion of it's physique. The mask details are stolen, as one might imagine, directly from the Inner Hollow's own face. The overall shape of the mask is round, appearing very smooth everywhere but the chin and jaw. The forehead is quite broad, with only two distinguishing ridges rising up on the left and right sides.

These ridges are vertical, and extend from where his brow would be, back towards the top most point of the mask. They angle outwards from each other, and are quite soft in shape. There are no spines or jagged edges with these. Down then to the eyes, which rest beneath this wide brow. As with Ekibyoha's mask, there are several sets of eye sockets. The largest openings, positioned where the eyes would normally be, are the centerpiece to the design. These are the holes which reveal Mika's blackened scl glowing green Irises below. Out from these openings are increasingly smaller ones. Additional eye sockets which rotate outward from the primary cavities in symmetrical spirals. Though there are several holes, Kurosawa grows no additional eyes too fill them...not yet. Down from the eye sockets are the cheeks. Bulbous and full, these rounded features are quite prominent. They spread down to his cheeks in this manner, making Mika's masked face appear quite bloated. It is as if his mouths are stuffed with food. It might also appear as a toad in the middle of it's croak, especially, if one could imagine the cheeks expanding instead of the throat. Either way, the rounded cheeks are but a portion of the masks appeal. There is also the chin and jaw of the bottom mouth, a series of four nearly identical bone structures. Rather than open up and down like a normal human jaw; his mask's mouth can open four separate portions. In any individual order of his choosing.

Each of the quarters may move independently from the others. The upper maw is much more akin to the standard mammal or even human structuring. There is no chin, but instead, a boney divider between it and the lower orphus. If need be, both mouths can unhinge and open vastly wide...thus revealing Mika's actual chin and mouth from behind the cover. Giving him the option to speak without issue, if he so chooses. Though...with his Mask on...Ekibyoha tends to be in charge. As such, Mika’s anatomy rarely gets use. Ah, but it continues to get better. Ekibyoha is not a being of individual looks, as such, his mask cannot have such a stagnant appearance. No, at a whim, Ekibyoha can have the two sets of bloated cheeks dissolve away. They simply vanish into a sickening green mist. As if converted to a belch of noxious stomach gas. What this reveals is the teeth and features resting beneath the former cover. Often times this outright reveals large portions of Kurosawa’s face to the open air. On other occasions, when Ekibyoha is overworking himself, all one sees are tendons and fleshy portions of forming flesh. After all, they anatomy shifter is quite fond of building a bigger and better body for itself. Sometimes things get a little out of hand, and the excess ends up forming under the mask. Thus is the sacrifice for biological superiority.

Resurreccion Appearance:

When the balance has been shifted to a fully Ekibyoha motif, then the Hollow gets to choose the body they use. The form most desired? His natural one. Before we get started, how about a simple mental image? Think of a Locust, mixed with an Octopus. A Loctopus. With elements of frogs, lizards, crabs, and slugs thrown in. Maybe not so simple...oh well. The one has been developing since long back when he first took shape inside of Mika’s soul. The same form that he appears as, when discussing with Mika within the scientists mind. And...for those who need to study up on what that is: Many Vizards describe their inner Hollow as a mirror of themselves, a true picture of their evils. Ekibyoha is far too egotistical to use the wiry, unimpressive appearance of Kurosawa as his own. Instead, he chooses to be a shapeshifter. Much the same way that Mika is constantly altering his appearance one way or another, so does Ekibyoha. Unlike Mika, Ekibyoha has no need of fancy surgeries or experimental treatments. Being a Hollow, and being quite monstrous in form and nature; Ekibyoha can shift and shape his body into almost any form he chooses. Though one might expect him to be some form of slime or amoeba, the truth is, his looks resemble something more akin to an octopus. There is a central mass which remains rather human like regardless of whatever the rest of the body has become.

This central torso possesses several writhing tentacles as it's limbs. Now, this main "torso" often takes a very human shape. An erect, central spine, with clear abdominal and pectoral sections; defined in the muscle or the carapace which covers Ekibyoha's outset layers. Yes, I said carapace. Besides his slimey, tentaclely formation, Ekibyoha believes in adapting only the best qualities. One such quality is a protective layer covering the body. Rather than grow a solitary shell, like most of his fellow mollusks would, he instead copied the arthropods. No matter how he may modify his body, with new limbs or different proportions, he will always be covered in tiny, interlocking segments of chitin. Instead of large, groupings of massive exoskeletal plates, Ekibyoha prefers hundreds of small fragments. They may appear less sturdy than more unified structures of chitin, but in actuality, they act much like chainmail. When struck, the pieces of bone will all begin to lay down atop one another. This collage of resistance and dispersion of force makes Ekibyoha quite difficult to slice open. Stabbing still works nicely. But now that we have seen the core of his figure -a human stylized torso- and we know his skin type -numerous chitinous layers covering dense and leathery flesh- what of the rest of him?

Like the anthropoids that Ekibyoha stole his armor from, he shares an affection for jointed limbs. Other than the tendrils which form his bodies base, the rest of his limbs are usually very sturdy and heavily jointed. Where his central body is rather mammalian and similar to primates(but fucking hairless), he does not limit himself to two parallel arms at just the shoulders. Instead, Ekibyoha keeps six pairings of arms tucked neatly against his body. Prehensile abdominals. These six groupings are in addition to the two you might normally expect. The first extra pair are located just beneath the primary. Here he has a second set of shoulder joints and pectoral muscle groups, everything needed to duplicate the success of his major set. The second extra pair have formed at the junction between his abdominal range and his lower chest. Being placed closer together, and at a less sturdy portion of his internal skeletal system, these arms are much smaller. Given Ekibyoha's large size however, these limbs still possess more strength than the typical human. They are used much like the pedipalps of spiders or crabs. They hold prey in place, while Ekibyoha savors a slow meal. Finally, the last remaining extra pair are located on his back. Forming out of joints which have replaced the standard position of the shoulder blades. There are still shoulder blades, they have simply been elevated and elongated to maintain his array of muscular tendons. These last additional arms are quite large, rivaling the primary pair. They are highly segmented, more so than the rest, and can reach backwards just as easily as forwards. All in all, this array of limbs gives Ekibyoha a cuddle radius of 360°. Which makes him "King Cuddlebug". Which I hear, he hates being called. Ah, but there is yet more to cover.

Next, on our ever upward moving adventure, we come to the..."head". Like most arthropods, Ekibyoha has no neck or definable head. It sort of meshes with the rest of the body. What he does have, his a high rising pair of bony plates extending up from his broad back. There is also a dense grouping of thick muscles along each side of his face. These features are the most noticeable, and provide very sturdy layers of protection from attack. They also help to outline the bold, white coloring of his mask. Now for the mask itself, it is quite odd. Being very broad and exceptionally round; the mask is quite inhuman. There are several slots for eyes, varying in size. Starting with the largest, central cavity; the eye holes radiate out in an decreasing scale of size. Looking at the arrangement straight on, the smaller ocular openings seem to spiral around the primaries. Imagine a helix formation, viewed from directly above. Beneath the eyes are the wide, bulbous cheeks. All four of them.

Both the "cheekbones" and the cheek portions of the mask are large and swollen. It makes Ekibyoha appear quite bloated, mouths seemingly stuffed with food. Speaking on the mouths...the chin and jaw structure of the lower one are actually four separate bones which hang off the bottom of the mask face. Each can move independently from the other next to them. When acting together, they maximize crushing strength by acting as a multidirectional vice. But oh. The meal's not ready just because it has been crushed. There is a broad and powerful throat, lined with grinding rows or razor teeth. By the time he has actually swallowed his food...it has been reduced to powder. There are spiny ridges extending from the bottom of his jaw, but none on the top of his head. The reason? Having a smoothed cranial area allows Ekibyoha to retreat into his body like a turtle. This is obviously another defense, but it is one far less common than other Hollows' methods. But. If we are going to discuss strange, unique mechanisms...we should talk about Ekibyoha's tongue.

Before you more daring ladies begin to get excited, just remember, this Hollow is truly vile. So, when it comes to his tongue, it must be equally so. What exactly is his tongue like? It is massive. It is fleshy. It is a fishing lure. So to speak. Ekibyoha's tongue is a massive stretch of tissue, measuring almost 20 cubic meters. Though it is quite long, it is not used as a whip or grapple. This Hollow is not a frog. Instead, it is regurgitated outwards and transformed by thousands and thousands of tiny vessels; which can expand and contract as necessary. What does it transform and reshape itself as? Bait. Whatever bait is most appropriate. This could be form of a small, injured Hollow...or the tantalizing appearance of a beautiful Shinigami woman. Ekibyoha will disguise this organ so as to draw in the unsuspecting. But you might be asking yourself, "Who the hell would go anywhere near something like that? Who would fall for that?" Well I'll tell you why. The tongue itself is doused in a sticky saliva which traps anything making contact with it to the surface, a bond made between the very molecules. Better yet. This saliva is produced from glands which also process Ekibyoha's pheromones. The content of this mating chemical is a highly toxic, highly potent, oxygen inhibitor. Rather than smell sweet or pleasing, his pheromones simply cause the blood vessels within the head to constrict. This deprives the individual of much need oxygen; which results in an inability to process information. Its like, super booze. Those with high tolerances for poisons or alcohol will be far less affected by it than others...but the more afflicted one becomes, the less it matters how well adapted they are.

Now that you have learned how Ekibyoha's tongue looks and it's purposes, we can discuss the most fascinating quality of it. Just like regular Shinigami or humans, Ekibyoha uses his tongue for communication. Rather than wag the gooey muscle around inside of his mouth and throat...he regurgitates it. That means vomit. The whole sticky mess, just hurled up and left to dangle. It does not simply flop around like some hunk of flesh. No no...his tongue is very special ladies and ladies. It is made of thousands of little muscles and vascular pods. By flexing and shifting these Reishi filled organelles, he can shapeshift his tongue. Omighty, that is outrageous. But prudent...for he shapes the entire mass into a more anthropomorphic form. He can even speak through the tongue as though it were an actual person. Except...while in Resurreccion, the tongue remains as just one form. That is the form of Mika himself. The looks of which, seem to have Ekibyoha chomping and chewing on his host’s cranium. Indeed, the Kurosawa mimic is capable of motion and action...but most often swings and drips like any good tongue ought to. On occasion, spewing out verbal abuse direct from Ekibyoha’s very dry sense of humor.

Resurreccion Powers:

"...nothing contributes so much to tranquilize the mind as a steady purpose..."

Introduction

Ekibyoha, "Poisontooth", is the embodiment of Intoxication. So powerful is Eki’s presence and toxicity, that he causes Mika to obsess without impunity or restraint. Most every aspect of the shinigami’s life is a mad dash from one addiction to another. Stimulants, depressants, pain, grief, euphoria, even discovery itself. Anything that the boy could possibly seek, Ekibyoha pushes him to do so. It is this aspect which comes to life, whenever Eki takes over Mika’s body. It is this concept which defines the Hollow’s abilities in battle. When people think of Intoxication, images of drunkenness and foolery come to mind. Some might venture from this cliche to discover that opiates, and other drugs, may also induce a toxic mentality. With proper context on what may define Intoxication, one can Fewer still ever realize or appreciate love's affiliation with inebriation. Love, often attributed to lust and desire, is a child of intoxication. With a rush of chemicals, love ruins the mind. Love causes symptoms of insanity and euphoria, both. Love can even push a soul to obsession, an unhealthy bond. An altered mentality is the end result, regardless of how that state comes to be...or what it causes the afflicted to do. A fixation. An addiction that grows without exposure to a stimuli. Addictions like the ones which plague the Soul Reaper host that Ekibyoha lives within. Worse than an addiction; however, an obsession can come to define a being. Shape everything about it. Destroy whatever it was or could have ever become, as it forms a new life for itself. It is this take on Intoxication in which Ekibyoha lives. An obsession that dilutes the self with wants and desires, pains and reliefs. An intoxication that creates an entirely new soul, by altering what was. The original erased. This process begins with a fundamental source, known to all Spiritual Beings.

Obsessive Soul

What if every soul were an addict? What if there was a drug so common, and so potent, that now spirit could deny it? A toxin that does not aim to kill, but instead, aims to please? Something that would take away ever pain and care, and replace them with ecstasy. Skin crawling, spine tingling, hair raising, heart pounding delight. Now...give the power to feel such satisfaction to the whims of the pleased. Whenever they want it, they can have all the pleasure they want. It is hard to imagine how they might ever stop. Now, how do you get such an amazing drug to the people who need it most? What if they won't take it? Well...Ekibyoha has an answer for that. Make the drug out of something they already have. You make the drug out of their Reiatsu. That is exactly what Eki does. As quickly as Ekibyoha's Resurreccion is complete, his new body begins producing and emitting pheromones. Produced and present within his entire anatomy, this potent drug is ever present in the revived Hollow. Blood, saliva, sweat, skin, whatever fluids his body might produce. Contained within them all are his pheromones. Anything he touches, licks, bleeds on, all become covered in the microscopic contamination. It is with these pheromones that Eki turns his opponent's into obsessing fiends. The Reiatsu within their body will become their drug. The presence of the energy will be felt by every nerve and fiber...and it will not be pleasant. Their heads will swim as their focus shifts towards the sensations caused by their own Reiatsu. Their muscles and bones will ache as it begins to burn within them. Their skin will crawl and shiver, itching for them to bring relief. Even their soul will tingle as every ounce of their existence demands comfort from the newly formed addict. The only salvation? Scratching the itch. Scratching, by means of exhausting their energy reserves. Whenever those plagued by Eki's pheromones use their Reiatsu for the sake of techniques, or anything really, they will have all their torment replaced by utter euphoria. All the quivers will cease. The pain will disappear. The mind...well, it will still find focusing hard. For when they release their Reiatsu, pleasure will flood into through them. Creating feelings of comfort, delight, and even climax. There are no limits to the results, only what the individuals feel when they are given all the relief they could ever imagine. When these two aspects are combined, there is a recipe for exhaustion. Stimulated by discomfort, rewarded with satisfaction; opponent's will exhaust their energy reserves in a fit of orgasmic zeal...or fumble and fall under the oppression of their new fixation. Now, how might this be quantified? Let's establish the effects of NOT spending Reiatsu. Depending on what percentage of total Reiatsu remains, the victims will suffer increasing effects.

0-10% Reiatsu Remaining:

Anxiety; reduced mental focus and acuity, coupled with the desire to relieve discomfort by expending Reiatsu. Opponents should find their thoughts confused and distracted, more concerned with the way they feel than their surroundings.

11-35% Reiatsu Remaining:

Nausea; a general queasiness of the stomach, and the irritation of the bowels. Cramping within the abdominals, as well as frequent shifting of fluids through swollen tissue. As well as all previous effects.

36-65% Reiatsu Remaining:

Aches; tormenting spasms of burning, painful sensation within every muscle, tissue, and nerve. Limbs are sore, tendons are stiff, and skin constantly feels like it is crawling. As well as all previous effects.

66-99% Reiatsu Remaining:

Tremors; shaking throughout all of the extremities, as well as chattering teeth. The shivering is enough to ruin acrobatic stunts, reduce grip strength on held objects, and reduce accuracy(the ability to hit fine targets, not the ability to hit the same target more than once) with attacks. As well as all previous effects.

100% Reiatsu Remaining:

Delusions; an intense, altered state of mind where the intensity of withdrawal symptoms causes mental fabrications upon reality. These delusions come with a fever, but do not prevent Reiatsu expenditure. As well as all previous effects.

However, where there exists detriments, there are also resistances to stop them. As with all toxins, individuals may have the skill and willpower to resist the detriments of poison. In order from the top: each point in Calm Mind delays Anxiety an additional post; each point in Damage Recovery delays Nausea; each point in Pain Tolerance delays Aches; each point in Strength of Will delays Tremors. Ah, but there is a more. Given the biological method which Ekibyoha is forced to inflict these wounds upon his opponents, Poison Resistance may be of use. With 2 in Poison Resistance, the effects of NOT spending Reiatsu may be delayed a post. With 3 in Poison Resistance, the effects may be delayed two posts. These additional delays are added onto any other resistances an opponent might have. While all of that may sound overwhelmingly disadvantageous for Eki, there is little reason to fear. Unlike typical Vizard Resurreccions, Ekibyoha's pheromones remain active beyond the end of the release. The poison remains in the opponent's until it is flushed from them, and does not require Eki's continued presence to remain active. Purging the pheromones is no different than purging any other blood toxin. In addition, the pheromones will dissipate and dilute out of an opponent's system after 24 hours. This recovery time applies to everyone, and has no requisites. The only ones immune to Ekibyoha's pheromones are constructs, machines. The same immunity that is offered to machines may be enjoyed by anything that possesses no biological anatomy. Now, for the rewards that opponent's receive when expending their Reiatsu. Unlike the negative effects, the euphoric ones are much easier, and eager, used. What follows are costs, and their effects.

50+ Reiatsu Spent:

A momentary burst of relief, more like a flash of inspiration or sudden, refreshing breath. This comfort ends almost as quickly as it begins.

100+ Reiatsu Spent:

A few seconds of comfort; which characterizes itself with a tingle up the spine. Comparable to the sudden release of muscle tension and stress, following a good stretch.

200+ Reiatsu Spent:

Lasting a bit longer, this is when comfort becomes actual joy. Not only are symptoms relieved for the following two posts, or so, but some significant pleasure is felt. Something like the embrace of a loved one, and the warming comfort that brings.

400+ Reiatsu Spent:

It is at this level of expense, that relief becomes lasting. Following such a tremendous release, the next four posts will be unburdened by the symptoms of withdrawal. If that weren't enough; during the release, the opponent will experience a physical delight that rivals an orgasm. We're talking a full body spasm, and lingering haze of euphoria. It's pretty dope.

800+ Reiatsu Spent:

This is such a tremendous expenditure of Reiatsu, that it surpasses normal parameters of physical satisfaction. This is the otherworldly category of relief. Not only will the withdrawal effects be suspended for the next eight posts, but the opponent will escape the woes of physical and mental sensation for the duration of the next post. They will be delighted to a veritable state of transcendence.

Mmm, that about sums things up. There are both pains and pleasures. Relief can be found through skillful resistance, or expensive indulgence. All that said...there is one more caveat to this Hollow's abilities. The real power behind the "individual erasure" claim.

Inebriated Inhabitation

"He who fights monsters should see to it that he himself does not become a monster."

"I'm yo' pusherman...", heheh. Ekibyoha might be a dealer, but he is anything but a friend. The Hollow does not concern himself with the needs or wants of his victims and companions. The only real addiction he wishes to feed, is his own. So it might be asked, what does Eki actually gain from his enemies' desire to expend their Reiatsu? How could that be anything but detrimental to the Hollow's security? The reality is, Ekibyoha can make use of a nobody that has been drained of all it's Reiatsu reserves. Like a body that is drained of blood, the Hollow can begin an embalming...or more actually, a transfusion. Seeing the spiritually exhausted opponent as nothing more than a container, Eki then seeks to fill them with his own Reiatsu. Doing so is quite the costly endeavor. In order for any sort of effect to take hold, Ekibyoha must restore all the spent Reiatsu of his opponent. For some, this could result in a cost of several thousands. All of this must be paid from Mika's own reserves, and may not be paid with the Infinite Reiatsu reservoir offered by higher levels of release. As for refilling his opponent, Eki is not required to pay off the debts of negative Reiatsu. Eki will never have to pay a price greater than the total amount of his target's Reiatsu maximum. Ah, but what does all this confusing exchange result in? Why would Ekibyoha give back what he is partially responsible for taking? The end result is quite magnificent. If the target's Reiatsu might be fully restored during Resurreccion, then Eki can turn them into a host for his Intoxication. They will forever possess a portion of Ekibyoha, like an alteration to their very genetic coding. The result of such possession, is that if Eki or Mika were ever to die...they would manifest inside the other soul. They would come as a feeling of joy, or pleasure. They would linger in the mind as long as any worldly delight might. Though the initial feeling would fade; they would leave behind a lingering addiction. An addiction for that former feeling...a craving for that euphoria. The craving would haunt them. It would consume their thoughts and twist their desires. Other pleasures would begin losing their worth. Food would lose it’s succulence. As would flesh. Physical love would become dissatisfying, and emotional love would follow. After the warmth provided by those most dear has turned to a cold, numbing stillness...that is when self appreciate will die. Disgust and hatred are all the afflicted will know. Every time they look into the mirror...they will see the same pathetic, worthless, unwanted waste of flesh that Mika saw every f*cking day. Only then, after all that torment, will they find the cure to their torment. They will turn to Reiatsu, life to all spiritual beings. They will find that they can consume it with; by swallowing a single bite. They will be lead to do so by a hunger that has grown within them with each passion lost. It will be at the moment they swallow the ounce of flesh, torn from some innocent soul, that they will complete the metamorphosis. They will be engulfed in swirls of purple and green. Light pouring from every fiber. They will form into a cocoon of the strongest spiritual silk. Inside they will change, and once hatched...they will emerge as Mika. Mika, born anew. Ekibyoha’s final curse, is an addiction that creates a new Mika...out of whatever soul is fool enough to try and destroy him. This new being will retain all of Mika and Eki's shared memories, but will not be the same individual as the one that died before. This is not immortality, it is lineage.

Resurreccion Hard Facts

During Resurreccion, Ekibyoha produces an endless supply of pheromones within all his bodily fluids, as well emitting a microscopic field of pheromones about his form. Those who come into contact with the pheromones by any means, experience a cadre of effects. The effects are all tied to Reiatsu, and whether or not it is spent during an individual's post. If Reiatsu is not spent, the subject is burdened by the same afflictions which plagues typical chemical dependency. The severity of the ill effects are directly connected with how much Reiatsu remains in the individual's reserves.

0-10% Reiatsu Remaining:

Anxiety; reduced mental focus and acuity, coupled with the desire to relieve discomfort by expending Reiatsu. Opponents should find their thoughts confused and distracted, more concerned with the way they feel than their surroundings.

11-35% Reiatsu Remaining:

Nausea; a general queasiness of the stomach, and the irritation of the bowels. Cramping within the abdominals, as well as frequent shifting of fluids through swollen tissue. As well as all previous effects.

36-65% Reiatsu Remaining:

Aches; tormenting spasms of burning, painful sensation within every muscle, tissue, and nerve. Limbs are sore, tendons are stiff, and skin constantly feels like it is crawling. As well as all previous effects.

66-99% Reiatsu Remaining:

Tremors; shaking throughout all of the extremities, as well as chattering teeth. The shivering is enough to ruin acrobatic stunts, reduce grip strength on held objects, and reduce accuracy(the ability to hit fine targets, not the ability to hit the same target more than once) with attacks. As well as all previous effects.

100% Reiatsu Remaining:

Delusions; an intense, altered state of mind where the intensity of withdrawal symptoms causes mental fabrications upon reality. These delusions come with a fever, but do not prevent Reiatsu expenditure. As well as all previous effects.

To resist these effects, which affect all beings regardless of strength thanks to the mutual biology all spirits share, the opponent's will require trained bodies and minds. Training which counteracts the sort of debilitations caused by addiction. The following is a list of resistances: each point in Calm Mind delays Anxiety an additional post; each point in Damage Recovery delays Nausea; each point in Pain Tolerance delays Aches; each point in Strength of Will delays Tremors. Ah, but there is a more. Given the biological method which Ekibyoha is forced to inflict these wounds upon his opponents, Poison Resistance may be of use. With 2 in Poison Resistance, the effects of NOT spending Reiatsu may be delayed a post. With 3 in Poison Resistance, the effects may be delayed two posts. In addition to resisting the effects, it is possible for opponent's to alleviate their suffering like all addicts do. By indulging. The following is a list of possible treatments an opponent may use, and the effects they will have per cost.

50+ Reiatsu Spent:

A momentary burst of relief, more like a flash of inspiration or sudden, refreshing breath. This comfort ends almost as quickly as it begins.

100+ Reiatsu Spent:

A few seconds of comfort; which characterizes itself with a tingle up the spine. Comparable to the sudden release of muscle tension and stress, following a good stretch.

200+ Reiatsu Spent:

Lasting a bit longer, this is when comfort becomes actual joy. Not only are symptoms relieved for the following two posts, or so, but some significant pleasure is felt. Something like the embrace of a loved one, and the warming comfort that brings.

400+ Reiatsu Spent:

It is at this level of expense, that relief becomes lasting. Following such a tremendous release, the next four posts will be unburdened by the symptoms of withdrawal. If that weren't enough; during the release, the opponent will experience a physical delight that rivals an orgasm. We're talking a full body spasm, and lingering haze of euphoria. It's pretty dope.

800+ Reiatsu Spent:

This is such a tremendous expenditure of Reiatsu, that it surpasses normal parameters of physical satisfaction. This is the otherworldly category of relief. Not only will the withdrawal effects be suspended for the next eight posts, but the opponent will escape the woes of physical and mental sensation for the duration of the next post. They will be delighted to a veritable state of transcendence.

Now the bad news. While resistances and treatments will do wonders to keep an infected opponent vertical, they will unfortunately be plagued with the symptoms for a minimum of 24 hours; while their bodies detox. This is a unique trait, not as commonly found in the powers of an Inner Hollow Resurreccion. Lasting effects. Even if Resurreccion ends, the effects persist until the time duration has elapsed or a proper purging of body toxins is performed. A full blood dialysis would be needed to end the effects sooner than 24. Now, if an opponent's Reiatsu Reserve is reduced to 0, then another ability might be used. By spending Reiatsu not from an Infinite Reiatsu allotment, Ekibyoha can refill the Reiatsu reserve of an opponent to full. The cost to do so is whatever their maximum Reiatsu might be. Eki is not required to pay off debts acquired during Infinite Reiatsu states. If the cost can be paid, then Ekibyoha transfuses his Reiatsu into the opponent. If this occurs, then the opponent may spend that Reiatsu as they wish. However, if an opponent is given a full Reiatsu transfusion by Eki, then whenever Ekibyoha or Mika are killed...they will become and addiction in their killer. In time the addiction will ruin everything about that person’s life, and transform them into a new Mika and Eki. The opponent isn’t killed; they are unmade. The new Mika retains all memories from the former, but is actually a new person. An offspring that starts at Class 8...possessed by a fledgling Ekibyoha.

Last Edit: Oct 24, 2016 19:30:07 GMT -5 by Mika

"It is one thing to mortify curiosity...another to conquer it."

-Robert Louis Stevenson

"I just want to live..."

Mika
New Member

"Wanted: Orphan Donors." Wait, shouldn't that be outta-"Nope."

Posts: 21

Mika's Belly of Science Oct 5, 2016 19:45:09 GMT -5

Quote

Post by Mika on Oct 5, 2016 19:45:09 GMT -5

⚕ Statistics ⚕

Strength - 50 Points (100 Originally)

Speed - 50 Points (100 Originally)

Spiritual Pressure - 300 Points

Reiatsu Strength - 100 Points

Light Aura - 50 Points

Dark Aura - 50 Points

Instinct - 150 Points (100 Originally)

Senses - 150 Points (100 Originally)

Energy sensory - 100 Points

Healing Expertise - 1200 Points (400 Originally)

Total SP: 1300 Points

⚕ Skills ⚕

Analyzing - 2: It is believed that the greatest portion of Science is observation. Mika doesn't contest such a claim.

Bleeding Tolerance - 2: There is one thing that self-experimentation and being a d*ck will get you...boo boos. Mika has a long and loving career of butt whuppin' behind him. The result, he has learned how to take the punches and swallow the blood.

Computers and Hacking - 2: Thanks to the immensity of variables which affect biology, and the fact that there are more codons in Spiritual DNA than there are stars, computers play a big role in Mika's work. Sometimes, other people's computers have to play a role.

Crafting and Engineering - 2: With tools frequently damaged through the course of experimentation, Mika learned to keep things working or replaced. It should be no additional surprise that Mika focuses on Biotechnologies.

Damage Recovery - 2: Pain is experience. Poison is tolerance. Sickness is immunity. Rather than try to prevent the maladies of the world, Mika just survives them.

Utility Skill: Spiritual Biology - 2: The defining pursuit of Mika's lifelong study. Spiritual Biology provides intimate knowledge of all, possible biological information of spiritual beings. For each point, a new category of spiritual being becomes understood.
1 - Humans and Human-like beings; Arrancar, Bount, Failures, Fullbringers, Quincy, Shinigami
2 - Inhuman beings; Akki, Beastmen, Hanson, Hollows, Mod Souls, Saika
3 - Abstract Constructs; Blanks, Inner Hollows, Sword Beasts, Zanpakuto Spirits

Last Edit: Oct 5, 2016 20:08:21 GMT -5 by Mika

"It is one thing to mortify curiosity...another to conquer it."

-Robert Louis Stevenson

"I just want to live..."

Mika
New Member

"Wanted: Orphan Donors." Wait, shouldn't that be outta-"Nope."

Posts: 21

Mika's Belly of Science Oct 5, 2016 19:45:21 GMT -5

Quote

Post by Mika on Oct 5, 2016 19:45:21 GMT -5

⚕ Techniques ⚕

What Mika Knows

Shunpo

{Bakudo #54: Miasma}
Technique Name: Bakudo #45: Miasma

Class: 4

Technique Type: Bakudo

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects: By infusing their lungs with Reiatsu, the user can expel a dense vapor cloud. The expelling of this vapor forces everything in the lungs, out. The consistent effect is an obscured area, 6 meters in diameter, which can conceal those hidden within. The effectiveness of sight and smell for everyone are reduced within the haze. Sight only extends a meter and odors are masked by the vapor’s stench. The cloud will disperse after the Technique's duration ends.

Learned: The created cloud is a stationary sphere. Mastered: The user continuously produces more vapor for the entire duration of the Technique.

How to use technique: Concentration. the user must inhale a full breath; while noticeably focusing Reiatsu.

Technique Drawbacks Limited duration, 4 posts. Dispersible. Senses exceeding 200 can see twice as far; while Senses exceeding 300 are capable of discerning individual smells within the cloud. The cloud may be dispersed by Wind Techniques, Strength shock waves, evaporated by Fire Techniques, or even liquefied by Ice Techniques if any of these have at least 150 Stat strength.

Cost: 150 Reiatsu

Made By: Mika

Reserved: No

{BioReishi #51: Photosynthecyst}
Technique Name: BioReishi #51: Photosynthecyst

Class: 4

Technique Type: BioReishi/Kaido

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects: The user activates this technique by stimulating Reishi within themselves, and spitting onto a patch of soil. From the planted saliva a small sapling will sprout. The small shrub appearing to be a small palm tree, with a single stalk and wide, fleshy leaves. Each post spent in direct sunlight results in the sapling growing larger, and producing a single fruit. The fruit appears like green, fleshy orbs. Puncturing one of these fruits releases a thick, foul smelling ooze. The smell is identical to rotting flesh.

While in direct sunlight; the growing sapling stores energy. For every post spent storing energy, the sapling generates 100 Reiatsu in the form of a fruit. Up to 8 glowing fruits can then be harvested from the sapling. Anyone may consume one of these fruits, in entirety, to gain 100 Reiatsu. This Reiatsu causes the consumer to become dizzy and nauseated until the added Reiatsu is spent.

Learned: The sapling only produces one fruit every 2 posts. Mastered: Fruits from the first sapling may be planted in soil to begin growing a new sapling, with a growth duration equal to half of the parent sapling. I.e. 4 posts for the first generation, then 2 posts, then 1 post and can't be planted again.

How to use technique: Spitting onto fresh soil, and keeping the sapling exposured to direct sunlight.

Technique Drawbacks The sapling is stationary, and is easily destroyed by any attack with 50 or more in Stat strength. The sapling must remain exposed to direct sunlight to grow and produce fruit. 8 post duration, after which the sapling dies. 4 posts after blooming, the sapling’s fruit decays and loses all effects. Anyone may consume the fruits to gain the Reiatsu. This Reiatsu cannot go above Reiatsu pool cap. Eating a sapling fruit is like chewing on a fleshy, pus filled cyst; requiring 1 point in either Strength of Will or Poison Resist to avoid vomiting. Blek. Requires at least 200 Healing Expertise.

Cost: 200 Reiatsu

Made By: Mika

Reserved: No.

{BioReishi #54: Hemoflouric Acid}
Technique Name: BioReishi #54: Hemoflouric Acid

Class: 4

Technique Type: BioReishi/Hado

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects: By centering their Reishi, the user produces a shift within the functionality of their white blood cells. For a limited time; the user's blood becomes a potent acidic solvent. Targeting molecular structures that don't share the user's genetic signature. Dissolving the bonds that maintain them. The user’s blood will attack anything not recognized as their own flesh, and dissolve it in a similar manner to potent acids. This enhancement only affects blood still in circulation within the user’s body. Blood that has left the body, prior to the activation of the Technique, is unaffected. After the limited duration, any blood affected by the Technique will return to normal. While the acidic properties can be deadly; dissolving takes time.

1 post for fibrous materials, such as plants and cloth.
2 posts for soft tissues, skin and internal organs.
4 posts for dense tissues, such as muscle groups and bones.
6 posts for enamel, such as teeth and raw minerals.
8 posts for dense, processed materials: forged metals, lacquered woods, and treated plastics.

Learned: The acid takes twice as many post to dissolve materials than normal. Mastered: Applying more acid to something already dissolving is treated as another post passing. E.g. Spiritual Steel - 4/10 posts (+2 for being partially made of Reishi), is hit with more acid; raising post count to 5/10 before the end of the current post.

How to use technique: Concentration. Since the user’s blood is turned acidic, any aggression would require varying amounts of blood as a cost.

Technique Drawbacks Limited duration, 8 posts. The acid can be washed off with any inorganic fluid: water and alcohol as examples. Spiritual materials and flesh, anything formed partly of Reishi, take 2 posts longer to dissolve. The acid is rendered instantly inert in extreme cold. Requires at least 200 Healing Expertise.

Cost: 150 Reiatsu

Made By: Mika

Reserved: No

{BioReishi #59: Catalyst}
Technique Name: BioReishi #59: Catalyst

Class: 4

Technique Type: BioReishi/Hado

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects: By gathering Reishi as if performing Kido, the user can infuse the energy into any organic tissue. When successfully implanted; the user’s energy festers and transforms the flesh around it. The tissue is repurposed, slowly, into an biochemical explosive. This reaction is set to trigger when excited by the internal Reishi of the host. If more than 200 Reiatsu is expended in a single post, the energy will initiate a reaction that causes the transformed tissue to erupt with heat. Burning like a phosphorous flare, incinerating the surrounding flesh.

However, the implant is vulnerable. If the host spends 600 or more Reiatsu in a single post, the implant will be dissolved. Otherwise, the energy may survive inside of the host for only 4 posts. If in that time the host does not expend 200 or more Reiatsu in a single post, then the reaction will be absorbed. The host will receive the energy as sustenance, refilling their own remaining Reiatsu by 150.

Learned: The implant is absorbed, not dissolved, if the user spends 600 or more Reiatsu in a single post. Mastered: The implant triggers if the user expends 100 or more Reiatsu in a single post, without spending enough to dissolve it.

How to use technique: the user must make physical contact with living tissue to utilize this Technique.

Technique Drawbacks Spending 600 or more Reiatsu in a post will dissolve the implant. Spending less that 200 Reiatsu per post, for 4 posts, allows the reaction to be consumed. Consuming the reaction grants 150 Reiatsu to the host. Having a Spiritual stat superior to the user’s Reiatsu Strength provides immunity to the implant. Class 0 provides immunity to the implant. Requires at least 200 Healing Expertise.

Cost: 150 Reiatsu

Made By: Mika

Reserved: No

{BioReishi #61: Hirudo Reishilis}
Technique Name: BioReishi #61: Hirudo Reishilis

Class: 4

Technique Type: BioReishi/Bakudo

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects: By focusing their Reiatsu inwards, the user is able to modify bacteria on their skin. These bacteria collect to form large, jelly-like growths. Up to 12 of these growths can be created with a single use of this Technique. The user may sling or throw these, and attaching them to any foreign flesh. Once bonded to a valid host, they become very difficult to remove.

The bacteria absorb 25 Reiatsu during each post they remain attached. Destroying the leeches will not return the lost Reiatsu. With each 25 Reiatsu they absorb, they grow larger and produce a bright luminous glow. Making them easier to detect. The leeches are bacteria that cannot be physically removed. Any leach may be burned away by expending 50 Reiatsu.

Learned: Only 6 bacterial growths may be produced in a single use of this Technique. Mastered: Each growth can absorb 50 Reiatsu each post.

How to use technique: Concentration. Any of the user’s bodily fluids can be used as conduits for the bacteria, but are then counted into the cost. While this is less severe with saliva or sweat; blood carries with it more risk.

Technique Drawbacks Limited duration, 8 posts. The bacteria disintegrate at the end of the duration. The leaching bacteria have no significant mobility, and must remain attached to have any effect. The leeches may be burned away by expending 50 Reiatsu. Requires at least 200 Healing Expertise.

Cost: 150 Reiatsu

Made By: Mika

Reserved: No

{BioReishi #62: Pliabond}
Technique Name: BioReishi #62: Pliabond

Class: 4

Technique Type: BioReishi/Bakudo

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects: By coursing Reishi throughout their entire body, the user can morph their physical makeup. There are two outcomes for this technique, Partial and Complete. Each has similar, yet different effects. Each has their own cost and drawbacks.

Partial: For 150 Reiatsu, the user can perform plastic surgery on themselves. Simple effects such as: reshaping facial features, recoloring the pigments of hair or skin, or the removal of excess weight. This ability cannot be used to provide enhanced qualities such as: increase bone or tissue density(Hierro-like effects or Physical stat increases), altering of internal organs(Sensory stat increases), the healing of injuries, or the production of new flesh(High Speed Regeneration effects).

Complete: For 300 Reiatsu, twice the usual amount, the user can turn their entire body into an animate, malleable slime. Able to pass through tiny cracks and able to move as a liquid.

Learned: The user may only activate the Partial effect. Mastered: Physical stats are only reduced by 25% when using the Complete effect.

How to use technique: Concentration. The user must focus Reiatsu into the portion of their body he wishes to alter.

Technique Drawbacks Requires at least 400 Healing Expertise. In addition, the Complete effects also: reduces both Physical stats by 50%, prevents the use of Cutback effects, and makes combat impossible for the user. Effects may remain active longer than one post if the half the cost to use the technique is paid each following post. Requires at least 200 in Healing Expertise.

Cost: 150(300) Reiatsu

Made By: Mika

Reserved: No

{BioReishi #68: Huechoblastoma}
Technique Name: BioReishi #68: Heuchoblastoma

Class: 3

Technique Type: BioReishi/Bakudo

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects: By compiling Reiatsu into an appropriate amount of living tissue, the user can create a cellular defect. Upon doing so the tissue becomes corrupted with damaged, quickly replicating cells. These cells take a single post to transform into a menacing tumor. This blastoma is a unsettling mass of rubbery tissue. In addition to mobility, the Blastoma have disturbing and functioning mouths. Lined with massive teeth, and possessing no lips to cover them, the blastoma crawl around looking for Reiatsu infused flesh to chew.

In addition to being quick and hungry, these growths may also replicate themselves. Each post, a single blastoma can split in two in addition to other actions. Lastly, blastomas take on properties from whatever flesh they were created from. Properties such as: Shinigami durability, Arrancar regeneration, Quincy Hollow allergy, Failure volatility, etc.

Blastoma Stats
Class - 3
Strength - 400 Points
Speed - 200 Points
Spiritual Pressure - 0 Points, but Immune.
Reiatsu Strength - 0 Points
Light Aura - 50 Points
Dark Aura - 50 Points
Instincts - 200 Points
Senses - 0 Points
Energy Sensory - 200 Points
Healing Expertise - 0 Points

Learned: Blastomas' stats are reduced by 50%. Mastered: Blastoma are considered Class 2.

How to use technique: Concentration. The user must noticeably focus Reiatsu into living tissue.

Technique Drawbacks Limited duration, 8 posts. Tumor clones share the post count of the original. The user must sacrifice at least one limb's worth of flesh to activate. The user may only use severed flesh of anyone other than themselves. The user retains no control over the tumors. The tumors move towards and attack the closest Spiritual Pressure. Tumors may produce one clone per post. At the end of the duration, each tumor disintegrates. Tumors are extremely weak to: extreme heat and cold, acids, and even radiation poisoning. The Reiatsu Strength of any of these sources are doubled for the sake of dealing damage. Requires at least 250 Healing Expertise.

Cost: 450 Reiatsu

Made By: Mika

Reserved: No

{BioReishi #82: Topor Cell}
Technique Name: BioReishi #82: Topor Cell

Class: 2

Technique Type: BioReishi/Hado

Technique Element: None

Technique Description and Effects: By exciting the Reiatsu in their own flesh, the user can generate a devastating and contagious bacteria. Which multiplies within the user’s own flesh, and spreads to any living tissue it contacts. The result is flesh that becomes shriveled and lifeless. Commands through the nervous system stop, and the ability to retain water and nutrients also cease. The infected tissues do not dissolve; instead becoming numb, topor flesh.

The bacteria travels at different rates through different portions of the body. Depending on the portion of the body infected, the bacteria will spread outward at a rate of:
1 post to completely infect extremities such as: hands and feet.
2 posts to completely infect limbs such as: arms, legs, or the head.
4 posts to completely infect the torso.
6 posts to completely infect the internal organs.

E.g. Infection begins in the hand. 1/10 posts, the hand is infected and spreading to the arm begins. 2/10 posts, spreading in the arm (1/2 posts completed). 3/10 posts, the arm is infected and spreading to the torso begins. 4/10 posts, spreading in the torso (1/4 posts completed). 5/10 posts, spreading in the torso (2/4 posts completed). Etc.

E.g. Infection begins in the torso. 1/10 posts, spreading in the torso (1/4 post completed)...4/10 posts, the torso is infected and spreading to internal organs begins. 5/10 posts, spreading in the internal organs (1/6 post completed)...9/10 posts, spreading in internal organs (5/6 posts completed). 10/10 posts, the victim spends 200 Reiatsu to suspend post count (5/6 posts completed). Spreading in the internal organs fails due to post cap and Topor Cells die.

Learned: Topor Cells spread twice as fast in the user. Mastered: Topor Cells travel half as fast in the user.

How to use technique: Concentration. The user must designate a portion of flesh; while noticeably focusing Reiatsu into that tissue.

Technique Drawbacks Limited duration, 10 posts. The user must spawn the bacteria in the user’s own flesh, meaning the loss of that tissue. Targets with Strength or Reiatsu Strength stats higher than the user's Reiatsu Strength, have their infection post counts doubled. By spending 200 Reiatsu, infected targets can pause the infection post counter. This cost may be paid each post until the Technique ends. Healing Techniques that purge debuffs can remove all Topar Cells. Topor Cells become inert under two conditions; after 10 posts or in extreme colds. Requires at least 300 Healing Expertise.

Cost: 600 Reiatsu

Made By: Mika

Reserved: No

Last Edit: Oct 5, 2016 20:07:59 GMT -5 by Mika

"It is one thing to mortify curiosity...another to conquer it."

-Robert Louis Stevenson

"I just want to live..."

Mika
New Member

"Wanted: Orphan Donors." Wait, shouldn't that be outta-"Nope."

Posts: 21

Mika's Belly of Science Oct 5, 2016 19:45:36 GMT -5

Quote

Post by Mika on Oct 5, 2016 19:45:36 GMT -5

⚕ Active Threads ⚕

⚕ Completed Threads ⚕

A Scientific Ledger, rpforumbleach.proboards.com/thread/6984/scientific-ledger-joint-training-social?page=1#scrollTo=42164

End of the Day, rpforumbleach.proboards.com/thread/7008/end-day-joint-training-nde?page=1&scrollTo=42373

He'll Grow on You, rpforumbleach.proboards.com/thread/6970/grow-on-joint-training-nde?page=1&scrollTo=42074

Men At Work, rpforumbleach.proboards.com/thread/7000/men-work-joint-training-righteous?page=1&scrollTo=42294

A Party Crashed, rpforumbleach.proboards.com/thread/7521/placeholder?page=1&scrollTo=46128

What We Are, rpforumbleach.proboards.com/thread/6458/joint-training-nde?page=1&scrollTo=37763

Last Edit: Oct 5, 2016 20:04:18 GMT -5 by Mika

"It is one thing to mortify curiosity...another to conquer it."

-Robert Louis Stevenson

"I just want to live..."

Mika
New Member

"Wanted: Orphan Donors." Wait, shouldn't that be outta-"Nope."

Posts: 21

Mika's Belly of Science Oct 5, 2016 19:45:47 GMT -5

Quote

Post by Mika on Oct 5, 2016 19:45:47 GMT -5

⚕ Thread Rewards ⚕

+400 SP, Character Creation Bonus.

+1,225 TP, Joint Training Reward, What We Are, rpforumbleach.proboards.com/thread/6458/joint-training-nde?page=2

+265 TP, Joint Training Reward, He'll Grow On You, rpforumbleach.proboards.com/thread/6970/grow-on-joint-training-nde?page=1&scrollTo=46158

-1000 TP, Conversion to SP, +500 SP. 900 SP trained.

+255 TP, Joint Training Reward, A Scientific Ledger, rpforumbleach.proboards.com/thread/6984/scientific-ledger-joint-training-social?page=1#scrollTo=42164

+510 TP, Joint Training Reward, End of the Day, rpforumbleach.proboards.com/thread/7008/end-day-joint-training-nde?page=1&scrollTo=42864

+250 TP, Joint Training Reward, Masks We Wear, rpforumbleach.proboards.com/thread/6879/masks-wear-joint-training-nde?page=1&scrollTo=46206

+70 TP, Solo Training Reward, "Placeholder", rpforumbleach.proboards.com/thread/7521/placeholder?page=1&scrollTo=46218

+755 TP, Joint Training Reward, Men at Work, rpforumbleach.proboards.com/thread/7000/men-work-joint-training-radical?page=1&scrollTo=46193

Last Edit: Oct 5, 2016 20:05:07 GMT -5 by Mika

"It is one thing to mortify curiosity...another to conquer it."

-Robert Louis Stevenson

"I just want to live..."

Mika New Member "Wanted: Orphan Donors." Wait, shouldn't that be outta-"Nope." Posts: 21	Mika's Belly of Science Oct 5, 2016 19:46:01 GMT -5 Quote Select Post Deselect Post Link to Post Member Give Gift Back to Top Post by Mika on Oct 5, 2016 19:46:01 GMT -5 ⚕ Expenditures ⚕
	Last Edit: Oct 5, 2016 20:07:29 GMT -5 by Mika "It is one thing to mortify curiosity...another to conquer it." -Robert Louis Stevenson "I just want to live..." -Mika The Belly of Science

Mika
New Member

"Wanted: Orphan Donors." Wait, shouldn't that be outta-"Nope."

Posts: 21

Mika's Belly of Science Oct 5, 2016 19:46:14 GMT -5

Quote

Post by Mika on Oct 5, 2016 19:46:14 GMT -5

⚕ Mika's Timeline ⚕

SRDI Period: 1993-2014

- A Scientific Ledger

"An excursion made as an accompanying member of an ecological survey team. This was the first time meeting a fascinating Mod Soul. I don't quite recall the name, but I can clearly remember the brilliance of the scales I examined."

- Learning Parabola

"..."

- Sound Check

"Mika attempts to perform a massive experiment, under the noses of hundreds of fellow Shinigami. A challenge for both his scientific prowess, and strategic mind. A valuable lesson of humility learned."

- Orientation Day

"..."

- What We Are

"Following the events in the Arboretum Caves, the young SRDI researcher was placed on disciplinary suspension from all ongoing projects. While not outright removed from the SRDI; Mika had ruined his chances of participating in any meaningful, future assignments. It was of no consequence, though...as the boy uncovered a new purpose far more tantalizing than any school project."

Freelance Period: 2014-2016

- Growing Pains

"..."

- The Bug and the Zapper

"..."

- All Aboard the Waterboard

"..."

- Another Screwed Up Night

"..."

- Masks We Wear

"An episodic occurrence in which Mika interacted with the likes of...another. It was immeasurably satisfying to examine the condition of this, Aevus individual. To learn so much about oneself outside of a mirror..."

- Tears in the Paint

"..."

Exile Period: 2016-?

- Mortal Monsters

"..."

- Men at Work

"This was my first meeting with the Fullbringer known as Uzaki Kazura. Having exhausted all contacts and connections within the Seireitei; I met Uzaki-san in hopes of building a lasting partnership outside of the Soul Society. The meeting itself was acceptable; though terminated early. However...from that point on I had secured myself an ally in the world of the living. Marginally, at least."

- End of the Day

"It was at this time that Mika began experimenting within the populace of the Human World...for the sake of profit. Without a benefactor, it was necessary that I guide him to develop self-sufficiency."

Vizard Period: ?

Last Edit: Oct 5, 2016 20:06:41 GMT -5 by Mika

"It is one thing to mortify curiosity...another to conquer it."

-Robert Louis Stevenson

"I just want to live..."