Learning how to pick up the blade again - JT (Gestalt/Celes)

[Deleted]

It had been a bit since Hell's invasion of the Soul Society. Gestalt for so long had simply been helping around the hospital and barracks. Body after body. Person after person. Blood. Wounds. Rampant infections. Death. So much trauma just on the flesh of those he'd seen. And that wasn't even counting those who survived past it and now had PTSD. Let alone a plethora of other mental issues that were only just beginning to take root. Gestalt hadn't even had the time to really work on his own issues as Squad 4 had healed him up to the best of their abilities when he was brought back to the barracks. And then when his couple days of rest were done and he was back to his standard self, he was immediately employed with task after task after task after task.



Days blurred into weeks. Eventually going into the territory of what had to be months now. Things were finally starting to curb down; patients were either dead or recovering. No if, ands or, buts about it. Occasionally new shinigami and rukongai citizens had been brought to the hospital but finally it was becoming "manageable". At least compared to the initial days and weeks after the invasion. Gestalt had finally been allotted a full night's rest and even had time off before his shift at the hospital today. For all intents and purposes, things were "Ok". But for him? That was a different story. Gestalt couldn't help but feel disappointed with himself. He'd been trying to atone for his actions in life. Save lives instead of taking them. And when Hell itself came to attack he was nowhere near as useful as he should have been.



He could barely fight the hellions. He'd even had to have another defend him and only then scraped by after their death. A part of him felt as though it were his fault due to his lack of training for combat. But was it necessary to be combatively capable? Was that what he needed to be in this life? He'd sworn that he needed to stay away from it. That his atonement could be done peacefully for the most part. But the invasion had him questioning things. Mostly about himself and how he should handle the world around him. He glanced at the zanpakuto at his side. It was. . . a sword of sorts. Definitely not one he was familiar with, but it looked as though it could cut things. But he was also told that within these blades were spirits. Beings capable of granting their users immense strength.



He wasn't sure how to take that. But considering that some of his squad mates were able to heal those around them with greater ease and potency, it was worth a shot to look into it. Perhaps this was God's way of giving him guidance. For him to try and pursue power but in the correct way. Maybe if he were fortunate, this sword would gift him the power to help others. But he couldn't be certain. The powers outside his squad seemed to be far more aggressive in nature. And some that he'd heard about were. . . chilling. Deeply concerning even. Captain Connor's especially so given some of the reports he'd heard snippets of. Still without a captain what was he to do? Squad 4 barely managed with its hand full of seated officers. Let alone the hospital staff and other assistants.



There was only one way that Gestalt could think of to learn more about these "Zanpakuto". He needed to go to Squad 10's shinigami. He needed their help and assistance. If nothing else, they had a captain, and she was something of a prodigy from what those in the 4th said. So perhaps her subordinates could assist him? Teach him how to find or otherwise awaken the spirit in his blade. Assuming he was capable of doing such. Thus, brings us to Gestalt early in the morning at the 10th's entrance. A fresh set of shinigami keeping watch and just a bit inside a plethora actively training. Some even with their wounds still healing. That immediately got Gestalt to frown deeply even if he understood why. Still, he'd have to let that slide today, he wasn't on shift yet and he needed a break from that mindset.



Thus, he walked up to one of the guards who looked at him a bit confused as to why he was present. "Good morning to you both. It's nice to see someone not wrapped up in bandages. Truly, a blessing if I'm honest. Speaking of blessings, I'm in need of direction. Who of your squad knows about Zanpakuto? More specifically, how to speak with the spirits that reside within. I've just received my weapon and from what I hear about them, I needed them several months ago. Is there anyone that you can think of?" The guards, two men simply looked at one another. It became readily apparent that even they did not have their shikai at this point and time. Something that didn't settle well with Gestalt given he was truly praying that this "Shikai" power wasn't difficult to acquire.



Eventually with a bit of confused looks and non-verbal ques between the two, the guard closest to Gestalt spoke up. "Truthfully we don't know. We only recently got our own zanpakuto. I'd refer you to our captain, but I think we can all agree she likely has far better things to do at this current moment. All we can say is that you need to be spiritually and physically ready for your spirit to appear. However, we do have a few in our squad who have their own Shikai's so perhaps if you ask around you can see if they are up and around or even training. They'd likely be able to at least help you get started with finding your zanpakuto's powers. Hopefully that helps?" The guard had the decency to be embarrassed by his own admission of not being able to help.



Gestalt was admittedly a bit frustrated by it. But he couldn't blame them. Nothing worthwhile was gotten easily. So, he took a deep breath and put on his biggest smile before speaking. "Do not be upset with yourselves. Nothing of value is gained easily. I appreciate that you could point me in the direction of those who know more. I'll give the training grounds a look around. See if I can't find one who has their Shikai available. For now, though, God bless you two and please, try not to visit the 4th anytime soon. For both of your sakes haha!" With that he nodded at both and walked past them going straight to the 10th's training grounds with the goal of finding someone, anyone, who knew something about these zanpakuto and could help him find the power within them.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Stats and skills}
Current Stats:

Strength: 50

Speed: 125

RS: 50 (25)

SPPR: 200 (300)

Instinct: 50

Senses: 50 (25)

ES: 100 (150)

HE: 0


Without Sasei Oni

LA: 80

DA: 20


With Sasei Oni

LA: 0

DA: 100




Current Skills: (14/15)

An Zam - 2

Calm Mind - 2

Pain Tolerance - 2

Anti-Stealth - 2

Acrobatics - 2

Hakuda - 2

Battle Analysis - 2

SPOILER: Click to show

{Items on his person}
Name: Steel Silk

Description: When purchased, this item can be made into any set of clothing that the wearer wants. Said clothing becomes a highly durable armor that can block most attacks.

Class: 4

Item Type: Armor

Item Power (IP): 500

Offense Type: Physical

Durability: Double Ip

Bonuses: N/a

Drawbacks: Cannot wear more than one layer of Steel Silk.



Name: R-Siphon

Description: A tight-fitting, black leather glove with a small dial on the wrist, no larger than the face of a watch. Depending on the setting, this dial can draw in certain amounts of reiatsu from the area, not unlike a Quincy’s cross. While more reiatsu is drawn in, the user may find what they can do to be quite limited.

Type of Item: Tool

Class: 4

Item Power (IP): N/A

Offense Type: N/A

Durability: 100

Bonuses: This glove has three settings; 0%, 50%, and 100%. Changing this dial requires a quick second to do, which could potentially be an opening. At 0%, the glove is turned off, and comes with no unique effects. At 50%, the user regains 50 reiatsu + an additional 50 per class of this item above 5 every post, but the reiatsu cost of release techniques is doubled while this is set to 50%, and all release techniques and abilities (or equivalents thereof) function at half the user’s OS instead. At 100%, the user gains 100 reiatsu + an additional 100 reiatsu per class of this item above 5 every post, but the user cannot use their release while this glove is on 100%, as it will absorb the reiatsu released before the user can, well, release. If the user is in a released state upon turning the dial to 100%, they’re immediately forced out of it and suffer from light reiatsu burns with an OS equal to the amount of reiatsu they would’ve normally absorbed.

Drawbacks: Low item durability, high item cost, release is weakened or negated altogether based on the effect used at the time. This item cannot be used alongside a Quincy Cross or Spirit Fragment. Types or races that do not possess a release cannot make use of this item.

[Celes Shindazu]

The Tenth was in for some fun today. She had given them far more rest days than usual. After all, they had been performing diligently as of late. Helping the Sixth Division restore Shin'ō Academy. Bolstering defenses around strategically significant locations. Hell, some of them had even found the occasional stubborn Hellion in the deepest reaches of the Rukongai. Needless to say, she'd throw them a bone every now and again. Despite that, she didn't want them to grow complacent. They needed to get back into the swing of things.

The Tenth Division was a combat squad. They were in charge of spearheading defense efforts of the Seireitei, but lately Celes has expanded those roles to encompass the Rukongai. This focus afforded the Tenth far more room to establish individual training grounds. Individually, they were big enough to support several dozen students. Today, Celes had chosen to reserve one of them in particular for combat training. There would be several rows of Officers who all paired up with one another. 

As Celes walked between each one of them, she'd supervise the exercise as a whole. She had run two of these exercises already today. Each time they ran through a variety of skills in a lecture format. The Captain demonstrated subjects like Zanjutsu and Hakuda most prominently since these were her greatest stengths. Effortlessly moving between the pairs of Officers, Celes simply gave instructions as necessary. "Nadia, be sure to shift your weight a little to the other foot... Erika, don't let your guard down. Attack!... Leon, use his own force against him if you're going to counter like that." 

Celes didn't belief in strict or harsh reminders. Each student had their own styles. They possessed unique skills and strategies. Despite that, she needed them to be able to adapt. To learn from their mistakes. Sometimes Celes made a purposeful choice to pair up two students who would struggle against each other. This was not out of virtue of wanting to be mean, but it helped reinforce the point she tried to make. There were times when you had to utilize strategies that you'd never consider otherwise. 

Continuing to move around pair after pair with rather impressive footwork and balance, she'd eventually find herself at the head of the group again. Able to get a better general overview of everyone's condition, she could tell that they were growing sluggish. In truth, she wasn't surprised. They had been going at this for nearly an hour and a half. The Captain brought her hands before her and simply smashed them against one another. Seemingly innocuous, a shockwave rushed forward harmlessly and brushed against each of her Officers. 

This diverted almost everyone's attention towards Celes almost instantly. She grinned briefly. "Excellent job. All of you. Let's take a small break. Reconvene in say.. an hour?" Her Division knew this to be a question. Not an order. They all panted gently, nodding their heads. Numerous voices lit up at the idea of a break. "Y- yeah. A break sounds like a- good idea.." "Finally. My muscles are killing me." "I'm gonna sleep well tonight.." As usual, her officers dispersed, breaking up into smaller groups.

This had become the norm. Close knit friend groups had emerged within her Division. This pleased her greatly. She had no doubt that they'd all feel more at peace if they knew there were people they could count on. People to confide in. They could find a shoulder to cry on. It was something that she felt was sorely lacking in the Eleventh Division during her time as Third Seat. She hoped that Kimiko had gone and fixed that. Nevertheless, Celes took a seat on the floor and sighed, leaning against the wooden post as she looked up at the shifting clouds in the sky. "Ahh. How relaxing~"

[Deleted]

Gestalt had only been inside the 10th's barracks for a few minutes when he found himself finding a large number of weary shinigami. He heard some groans and moans. Some of which were moving far more slowly than they should have normally. Gestalt would have asked why, had they not been covered in sweat and almost creating a moving river of it beneath them. He simply nodded to himself and the group as a whole. Giving them a wide berth as they slowly but surely moved to somewhere else within the barracks. Well perhaps I'm not too late at all. If one group of shinigami are leaving training perhaps another will be following them into a training session. And considering the sweat trail that building seems to be the venue for it. I'll start there and see if I can't find someone to point me to an individual with their Shikai.

Once the group had passed, he made his way over to the training area. He hadn't seen anyone else near it which started to make him worry that perhaps he was in fact too late. Being in another squad he had no idea the personal schedule of those in the 10th. Anything was possible at this rate. With this in mind he decided to let his "spiritual" senses reach out to the world around him. It was a strange thing, almost like a power unto itself that surprisingly Gestalt was actually fairly potent with. At least compared to his other shinigami. Almost immediately he picked up on an energy source, it wasn't terribly overwhelming, but it felt refined. Like it had been trained given it wasn't rushing out and around and was instead simply dense while remaining steady.

Whoever this is, has to be one of the individuals who knows Shikai. Obviously, they've done training because this reminds me of a few of our fellows who use their weapons. Though. . . it seems far more controlled than even their own. It's probably just a product of years of training. Regardless this should be someone who can help and thankfully they're alone, so I won't be interrupting them. Gestalt picked up his pace and started running, albeit a bit awkwardly due to his right leg weighing him down. He sighed mentally as he knew he had to get physically stronger, or this deformation was going to be the end of him. Regardless it still took him a few minutes to actually go from the initial training field to the correct one.

As he got closer to the reiatsu signature he eventually had his breath stolen from him. Namely because of all the individuals he could have run into, it was none other than the captain herself. Gestalt stopped dead in his tracks. He was a good 50 feet or so away when he finally stopped himself. He was admittedly fairly nervous; his goal was to find anyone but Celes. Peer to peer assistance was one thing but it was a whole other ball game to go to another divisions captain. All things considered he should have considered the possibility that she would be present. He didn't know of a lieutenant for the 10th but that didn't mean they were without. But even still with the recent events who else could push their subordinates that hard?

Eventually Gestalt steeled his nerves. Captain or not, she still held the information he wanted. Perhaps he could convince her to point him in the direction of someone more his level in rank. The worst she could say was no after all. Slowly making his way over he made sure he looked at least somewhat presentable. Replacing his arm band on his upper right arm, ensuring his stole was wrapped around him properly with the tassels even over his chest, and he even went so far as to put away his necklace. Just to be safe, he couldn't know if she held her squad and others to a specific dress code. Once he was within 20 feet of her, he yelled out to Celes. "Excuse me, Captain Celes! I hope I'm not bothering you, but I could use your assistance. I've been trying to find a member of your squad who knows about these zanpakuto and their "shikai". Would you be able to point me to someone who could talk to me about them? Your guards at the entrance told me a few of your squad achieved it but they couldn't name who these individuals are."

[Celes Shindazu]

Celes let out a puff of air. She was a little bored, to say the least. She needed to find some way to kill an hour after all. Thankfully, it seemed as though her night in shining armor would come by. Having keen senses, Celes noted the approach of someone. The cadence of their footfalls was uneven. She raised an eyebrow before even looking at the newcomer. She wasn't sure what she was expecting, but the girl would certainly be pleasantly surprised. It was a member of the Fourth, Gestalt!

She remembered the days she spent in the Fourth Division well. Unlike some she had incredible respect for the Squad, making sure to challenge any disrespect towards them. She admittedly shivered a little at the thought of needles poking her, scalpels cutting into her and the sterile alcohol burning her wounds. None of it was ever pleasant, but she got used to it eventually. Gestalt tended to her every now and then when she was in the Barracks for recovery. She had to admit, he had excellent bedside manners. Or... so she thought at least. Very courteous. Very calm. These were traits she could respect. 

As he approached closer, the lime-haired Shinigami waved and grinned.  "Excuse me, Captain Celes! I hope I'm not bothering you, but I could use your assistance." She shook her head with a bright smile. "Not at all! How can I be of help, Gestalt?" I've been trying to find a member of your squad who knows about these zanpakuto and their "shikai". Would you be able to point me to someone who could talk to me about them? Your guards at the entrance told me a few of your squad achieved it but they couldn't name who these individuals are."

Celes raised an eyebrow. Now this was an interesting request. So, he wanted to learn about Shikai? Was that it? It was certainly true that few of her Division had learned Shikai. It required significant time and effort. One had to bond with an extension of themselves, a feat that was not easy for many. Ultimately though, when she gave it a little thought, she wasn't surprised that Gestalt was looking for guidance. As she understood it, the Fourth Division had no senior Officers. 

Well, who was she to turn down those eager to learn and improve themselves? She rose to her feet and brought her arms above her head, stretching. After yawning, she'd spoke in a soft tone. "Hmm. Do I know anyone who could help you?" She pondered on it for a moment, almost teasingly. "Well, today is a training day. I've taken all of my veteran Officers, typically those that know Shikai and a few others, and assigned them to teach groups. I, unfortunately, lost both my Vice-Captain and Third Seat recently so I've had to improvise lately." She chuckled nervously. From the tone of her voice, it didn't sound too serious. Gestalt could likely deduce that their departure was a result of transfer.

"However, you are in luck! If you'd like, I could always offer my insights. I trained the Captain of the Eleventh Division after all. I like to believe I know a thing or two about training." She chuckled for a moment. It was no secret among those in the Seireitei that the Captain of the Tenth was a little more laid-back than some. She wasn't overly strict. She simply expected everyone to do their best. If their best wasn't good enough, they'd work on it. It was a very encouraging attitude that certainly bolstered the morale of her troops. Should Gestalt agree to her offer, she'd ask a follow-up. "So, about the Zanpakutō, you mentioned Shikai. Is there something particular you'd like to know? Have you achieved a Shikai of your own, yet?" 

[Deleted]

Gestalt had continued walking up until he was a few feet away from Celes giving her a moment to think once he was done speaking. Thankfully she didn't seem all that concerned about him being present. If anything, she was pleased given she had a smile on her face now. He got a shiver down his spine; something told him that what she said was going to be mildly concerning. Though he did his best to shove off the concerning omen in his gut. For the time being, he simply listened to Celes as she spoke. Nodding a bit to show he was following. He was surprised to learn though that the 10th had no vice-captain or 3rd seat. He had to admit that was. . . strange. Very strange. Had they died? He thought for a moment to go over the time he'd been in the hospital.

He could recall nothing. Mostly blurred images but no big names sans Senshi, another captain but far more grievously injured than anyone else. Perhaps they were placed elsewhere? I'm certain they likely had some injuries to them but nothing noteworthy and certainly no deaths reported as far as I can recall. They must have been reassigned somewhere else to assist in the loss of men across the board. Celes speaking again took him out of his thoughts and reminded him why he was here. . . and that he'd accidentally glazed over most of her initial commentary. He smacked himself mentally for that while focusing on Celes. And that's when his blood ran cold. THIS was why he had an ominous sense earlier.

Celes herself was offering to train him. He was. . . begrudgingly willing. He needed to be able to move and work for his shift at the hospital and if the group he'd seen earlier were any indication of her methods. . . . he'd be struggling by the end of it. Gestalt swore he was sweating just a bit at the prospect as his nerves slowly but surely rose. God gives trials to those worthy, but he wasn't so certain he was ready for this one. "T-that would make sense. Especially since you know this "bankai" state? Form? I'll just stick to power. I can't say I really understand any of it. Neither my past life nor this one has truly explained these weapons we wield. But yes, if you have time to spare, I'd appreciate the assistance."

God give me the strength to endure and retain use of my limbs. I need them for my patients to be! Her next question did assist Gestalts nerves as he had to consider what exactly he was asking assistance with. Namely the former since he'd already admitted he didn't know next to anything about shikai. His own had only recently come to existence. Quite literally one day he woke up with it and even more strangely, it wasn't a katana style, simply a standard longsword. From there on, he'd simply kept it on his person as he worked since that was apparently what everyone did with a zanpakuto. With a bit of a frown and some frustration on his face he'd look back at Celes to answer her.

"The truth of the matter is I don't really know anything about them. Initially I was told you got one at the academy. I never received one. Then I wake up one day and it was just there, next to my cot. It's not even a standard sword such as the majority of the shinigami, its form is more familiar to me and my previous life's experience. That divine intervention aside, I need to learn how to utilize shikai. I've seen a few members of the 4th manifest theirs and it seems to be invaluable for healing. I've heard tell that it can do more than that, but it's based on the user. I do not have access yet, but I've only recently had time to train or attempt to learn more as the hospital and the barracks have both been filled to the brim with injured shinigami and Rukongai citizens. I admittedly need assistance with everything regarding the zanpakuto. My apologies if that is a great deal to ask."

[Celes Shindazu]

Having offered to assist the Unseated Officer herself, Celes was eager to hear his answer. Even before his answer, however, Celes could already feel sense something in the air? Was it fear No. Not quite. It seemed like... anxiety? "T-that would make sense. Especially since you know this "bankai" state? Form? I'll just stick to power. I can't say I really understand any of it. Neither my past life nor this one has truly explained these weapons we wield. But yes, if you have time to spare, I'd appreciate the assistance." 

She simply nodded her head for now. It was a good enough answer. Surprisingly, though, Gestalt was largely unfamiliar with the nature of a Zanpakutō. She had helped teach quite a few classes in the Academy both during her times as Vice-Captain and now as Captain. Teachings about the Zanpakutō, including Shikai and Bankai, were among the most popular topics. After all, it was a weapon that would become totally unique to the user. Even moreso, Shikai was the first step to developing a powerful bond with one's Zanpakutō. 

Thankfully it all slowly became revealed. Celes listened carefully, picking apart any detail that she could. It left her well.. surprised to say the least. "He was never given an Asauchi, huh?" As he briefly motioned at the blade he carried, Gestalt elaborated that the blade just seemed to appear to him one day. She supposed it wasn't completely out of the ordinary? After her first time performing Jinzen, Celes had earned herself a second Zanpakutō. Instead of claiming a second Asauchi though, Celes' effectively split into two katana. 

He briefly discussed his own Division, explaining to the Captain that a few in the Fourth had developed their own Shikai. This seemed to be his inspiration. To see where it all led. How he could contribute to Soul Society with it. She could certainly respect this, but she had a feeling that this would be completely unlike any other experience she had in teaching. Despite that, it seemed a little exciting though. As Gestalt seemed to finish, Celes brought her hand to her chin and hummed softly.

After a few moments of ruminating, she cleared her throat and locked eyes with the Unseated Officer. "You desire to learn all you can about Zanpakutō, huh? That's a great attitude to have!" Her initially stoic expression suddenly changed to one of absolute joy. "Well, I suppose to start, let's go over what a Zanpakutō is." Grabbing the hilt of one her blades, the Captain slid her blade from its sheath and effortlessly spun it around, presenting it to Gestalt. She'd smile brightly as she showed off her Zanpakutō.

It was a single blade of a twin set of perfectly crafted katana. The blade reflected the faintest light, glimmering brilliantly. "Since you seem to have very little knowledge of them, let's start from the beginning." Celes certainly wasn't trying to be rude, but it seemed like she'd have to go into vivid detail. "The blades that are distributed to Academy students. They are known as Asauchi. Think of them as a blank canvas. There's a reason we ask Academy students to spend every waking moment with them. As time goes on, a student begins to imprint their very soul upon the blade. It's weight and size may change. The hilt may mold itself. Hell, even the type of sword is not constrained to a single design. It becomes a literal extension of its wielder as time goes on."

She'd pause for a moment, allowing the information to sink in. The last thing she wanted to do is overload the poor lad. "Despite never having earned an Asauchi, you possess a blade that is familiar to you. I presume it fits your fighting style. no? Feels comfortable to use?" She had a sneaking suspicion that this was the case, but who besides Gestalt could know for sure. "I don't know how or why, but I believe that you wield a Zanpakutō already. You're already a part of the way there to earning Shikai." 

She'd giggle for a moment. "Anyway. Each Zanpakutō possess a Spirit within. Some can have multiple Spirits. These Spirits are essential to developing Shikai. Usually, most do so by bonding further with their Zanpakutō." Pausing for a moment, Celes peered at Gestalt's Zanpakutō for a moment. Given her earlier suspicion, she perked up almost immediately. "Tell me. When alone, or while sparring, have you ever heard a voice in your head? Even something as fleeting as a whisper? Either way, have you ever felt your Zanpakutō talking to you?" Celes had to identify what exactly she was dealing with here. It would define whether he was truly ready to take his bond to the next level or whether there was still a spark missing. Either way, she'd have a plan to proceed. 

[Deleted]

As Gestalt explained his lack of understanding regarding Zanpakuto he noticed a distinct change of Celes's expression. What was previously openly happy if not mildly surprised, was now a stone wall. It was concerning as Gestalt could only figure that she didn't believe he knew nothing. Let alone just "woke up" with a zanpakuto. Still even after he was finished explaining there was a quiet between them. Causing a bit more concerns to fill its place. . . That is until Celes actually spoke herself and seemed to be back to its former self, sans the surprise. Gestalt let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding onto. Then as she began to go over information regarding zanpakuto Gestalt pulled out a small notebook. Just in case something doesn't quite sink in yet, perhaps writing it and reviewing later will connect the dots.

Once he was ready, he nodded at Celes and wrote down small notes occasionally. He had to admit he was genuinely surprised that the weapons over time became attuned to the user. Attempting to bring out their best or otherwise most comfortable fighting style. Even before hearing that they held spirits within them, it really seemed as though the blades themselves were very much alive. If this was the case, it made him wonder what else could be alive. A quick glance down at his leg made him wonder if the chains in said leg could be alive also. He wasn't really willing to give that highly concerning thought anymore energy. He could, hopefully never, deal with that once it became relevant and he had the abilities of his weapon available to him. Still, it did bring up one curious point that had Gestalt pulling out his own weapon and looking at it.

An extension. . . of him. . . It made him worried more than anything if he were honest. The longsword was his weapon of choice in his past life. A weapon that saved him and his allies but condemned many to the afterlife. Deserving or otherwise. It was, more than anything, a vessel for his bloodlust and his rage over the events that had transpired around him. Without realizing it he found himself frowning quite deeply at his blade and ended up putting said blade back into its sheath before focusing on Celes again. It took him another moment after her question to answer as he wasn't really certain how to answer her question. Inevitably he decided that he may as well be as honest as possible. He sighed and spoke up, "It's. . . too familiar if I'm honest. To be completely honest? It's the weapon I used during my time on Earth, and it was what I used during a long war that I was a part of."

"It's so familiar in fact that the truth is, I see my previous self in it. A self I don't really want to return to. Especially given I've not conquered my vices nor atoned for all that I killed without reason. Or worse. . . for sport. I suppose you must be correct however, if it's this familiar I must be on my way to learning its capabilities." Gestalt took a deep breath and pulled out his notebook again, jotting a quick note in it. Then he nodded at Celes to continue, despite being significantly more forlorn. Her next question caused Gestalt to raise an eyebrow. He even broke out of his melancholy for a moment and gave a look that was asking if she were serious. A sword of magical power, though hard to believe, was still within the realm of reason. But a sword that spoke to him seemed a bit far-fetched. Even if he was learning that they house a spirit of some variety. He closed his eyes and tried to think back for a while to see if he'd heard anything or if something was out of the ordinary.

It took him a moment to be certain. The truth is he just focused so heavily on his job that his thoughts came and went. If they were present at all. In some regards he was usually pretty free of thought aside from "I need to this to fix that". However, he could recall every once in a while, a stray thought that seemed. . . quiet. Ominous even but it was always referencing his past. Comparing his current self to his former. It wasn't aggressive and its specific tone always felt more like it was his own mind speaking to him than something separate. Perhaps that's what she was speaking towards? It wasn't incredibly solid or distinct enough from his own thoughts on his past, but she'd know better than he would in this situation.

Putting away his notebook Gestalt opened his eyes, focusing on Celes before answering her second question. "I suppose I have. Or it's at least a possibility. My thoughts regarding my past, when I dwell on them, and the "voice" are eerily similar. In tone and in speech. But they do seem to stick out a bit considering the situation they occur in. They aren't frequent, however. Is that perhaps the voice you speak of?" Gestalt tilted his head some and frowned again, but in confusion more than anything. Hopefully she could give some clarity to the situation on if he was just losing it or this was the voice of this spirit she spoke of. He had to admit that if there was ever a voice, it'd have to be this one but something in his gut told him that he couldn't be too sure. Maybe he had multiple and just didn't realize it yet. Regardless he'd wait quietly while Celes responded.

[Celes Shindazu]

Gestalt would make it very clear that his Zanpakutō troubled him. Celes had seen this before. Kimiko, for instance, after achieving Bankai expressed concern over its properties. The Captain of the Eleventh had reservations about one of her Zanpakutō Spirits, Taishokukane. These were not necessarily uncommon. Over the years, Celes had met others that shared similar sentiments. However, for the first time, she was faced with something different. Gestalt's blade was too familiar to him.

Thankfully, he'd elaborate what he meant by that. It seemed that Gestalt had some skeletons in his closet. Echoes of the past which is blade reminded him of. She could sense the subtle hints of regret in his voice. The Captain couldn't help but sigh briefly. After all, there was supposed to be joy in training. The understanding that one's hard work would pay off. That it would help them grow stronger. Thankfully there would be a glimmer of hope as Gestalt acquiesced to Celes' rationale. 

She smiled at him. She'd allow her reiryoku to bleed from her form. Her soul was an unnaturally kind one. The Captain rarely felt malice, reserving it only for her most bitter and wicked of foes. Her desire to help others, to see them grow, to see them happy, was represented in her spiritual energy. It would be warm and soothing to anyone who felt it. She continued flexing her reiryoku in this manner for a few more seconds, hoping to comfort the man before her. Nevertheless, Celes posed her next question.

This would, admittedly, be somewhat better received by the Unseated Officer. At least at first glance. It was a strange question, Celes had to admit. Despite a Zanpakutō effectively being a living weapon, she was effectively asking Gestalt to recall something that bordered on delusional. Despite that... she'd get her answer. "I suppose I have. Or it's at least a possibility. My thoughts regarding my past, when I dwell on them, and the "voice" are eerily similar. In tone and in speech. But they do seem to stick out a bit considering the situation they occur in. They aren't frequent, however. Is that perhaps the voice you speak of?"

She simply nodded, an inquisitive expression on her face, as she contemplated it for a brief moment. "Hmm. Perhaps he has already heard the call of his Spirit but needs a little... push." Smiling brightly once more, Celes spoke in an excited tone. "Yep, that sounds about right!" In truth, Celes really wasn't sure. Zanpakutō Spirits could be very fickle beings. The manner in which they acted. In which they communicated. Each one could be totally different. Alas, they had to give it a shot. 

She collected her thoughts, took a deep breath, and pushed forward. "You may note that I mentioned the Zanpakutō Spirits' importance in developing Shikai. A Shikai is nothing less than you learning the name of your Zanpakutō Spirit." She wasn't surprised if Gestalt had questions or even appeared confused. All this was a little high concept. "Now these Spirits can be really reluctant to reveal their name until they feel the worth of their Shinigami. Sometimes it's as simple as mutual trust. Other times it can be as difficult as conquering them in battle." 

She gave Gestalt one more glance over. She stared at his Zanpakutō. Perhaps he was ready to meet his Zanpakutō Spirit. There was a really easy way of find out, after all. Celes cleared her throat momentarily before speaking further. "We've gone to great lengths to talk about Zanpakutō. I think it's time we applied some knowledge." She smiled, perhaps a little ominously. To add to it, Celes slowly drew her own Zanpakutō. Just what did the Captain have planned? 

If Gestalt was expecting violence, he'd be sorely mistaken. Lowering herself to the ground and crossing her feet, the lime-haired Shinigami motioned for Gestalt to join her. "I'm going to teach you a skill. A skill known as Jinzen." Once more she was expecting questions, so an executive decision was made to cut out the middleman. "Jinzen simply allows us to communicate with our Zanpakutō within our Inner World. Think of your Inner World as a sanctuary for you and your Spirit. It was a reflection of your soul not unlike the Zanpakutō Spirit." 

"This is the stance to begin Jinzen." Brining her own Zanpakutō around, Celes placed the blade upon her lap. Expecting Gestalt to mirror it, she'd simply wait for him to do so. After all, he seemed very eager to learn. Assuming that Gestalt did as she asked, Celes briefly went over the process. "To perform Jinzen, close your eyes and focus on the blade. Pour your reiryoku into it. It's very important your focus doesn't waver. If all goes well, you should be in your Inner World." She'd grin before continuing. "Okay. Give it a shot!" If Gestalt decided to commit to it, she'd watch him closely. In truth, she didn't expect it to work the first time. Everyone loses focus the first time! Though, perhaps Gestalt would be different. He seemed disciplined enough.

There was, of course, a way to test whether Gestalt was in his Inner World or not. Could she truly risk it though? Yes. Yes, she could. The Captain rose to her feet and waited a minute or so. If it seemed that Gestalt was still focusing, Celes' aura suddenly changed. Hopping on her feet, the Captain decided to deliver a roundhouse kick to Gestalt's head. The kick would be much less powerful than what Celes would muster if she was throwing an all-out kick, only possessing about 50 Speed and Strength. The question was... would he dodge it? Or would he remain motionless? Either way, Celes delivered her kick with intent to hit. 

[Deleted]

Even with Celes's attempt to help pull Gestalt out of his past, he still lingered there for a moment. Memories of him fighting at various points and times. The feeling of blood trailing from his sword to his hands. The way his compatriots looked ahead with an unnatural zeal to them. He shuddered a bit mentally as he tried to push it away and focus on Celes. For the time being he stayed quiet as Celes spoke. He was glad if nothing else, that he had already been making a few decent steps towards his shikai given he'd been hearing a voice once in a while. Perhaps all he was missing was that last push to find the spirit and converse with them. Though that didn't stop a seed of concern from being planted given it spoke frequently of his past.

As Celes spoke, he pulled his notebook back out and jotted down more things to keep in mind. Specifically, that names were incredibly important. In fact, they were the entire reason Gestalt was doing what he was doing. He was actively trying to learn of this spirit within his blade and gain its names. Perhaps the witches of old really were onto something. Names do seem to have power. . . I wonder if they weren't really heretical as much as they were in tune with the nature of the world. Far more so than most individuals. Gestalt almost lost himself in these thoughts before realizing that Celes was suddenly smaller than him. A moment to look her over with actual focus and he realized she was sitting on the ground with her weapon laid across her legs. She wanted him to meditate. With his weapon. And pool his reiatsu into it like it was some sort of sponge for it.

He took a deep breath and just decided to go with the flow. Celes would know best with regards to learning about one's shikai. May as well follow her lead. So, he put away his notebook for the final time and pulled out his longsword again. He then sat on the ground, a bit awkwardly due to his right leg but eventually managed to cross his legs and place the sword on his knees. With his hands atop it he listened to Celes speak a bit more. Apparently, the meditation was specifically called "Jinzen" and its goal was to directly allow the meditator to visit with this spirit. God above, I pray that this works. It is admittedly, a bit much to take in all at once. Your wisdom and knowledge is far beyond my own however so I lay myself at your feet in the hopes that you will help guide me through this.

Gestalt took a few deep breaths once Celes gave him the go ahead. This was something he hadn't done in a very long time. He'd prayed to God and sat still for a long period of time perhaps that was its own form of meditation. It probably was in some capacity. So, Gestalt started the only way he knew how to start, by mentally speaking the Lord's Prayer while letting his reiatsu expand from his core in his chest. He knew he was supposed to flow the reiatsu into the blade but admittedly he wasn't all that great at controlling his energy, he simply had a lot. So, he decided to just let it flood his body and eventually reach his blade. He figured that if his blade was like an empty creek then perhaps his reiatsu would start to fill it once given some time. Slowly but surely Gestalts breathing calmed and grew quiet, he felt his reiatsu begin to enter the blade from his hands and legs.

Gestalt however didn't seem to notice much of a change. Sure, he wasn't focusing on the world around him and thus he didn't hear anything. Nor did he really "see" anything as obviously his eyes were closed. But it seemed like now he was just in an abyss of sorts. Black everywhere. Silent. There wasn't even a change in temperature to make it hot or cold. It just was. He had to admit that he was mildly frustrated as he was uncertain as to what exactly he wasn't doing correctly. He'd finished his initial prayer and decided to focus on his energy, help it flow where he wanted it to. But while it helped in allowing him to direct it generally it didn't seem like he was making any actual progress. Meanwhile outside of Gestalt and his partial dive into his inner world Celes was readying and letting loose her roundhouse kick. However, as she spun around, she'd see that his weapon was glowing and had changed into a sword handle attached to a metal chain with a heavy mace head at the end of the long and layered links. His legs by this point were practically covered in the chains given it was 30 feet worth of chain. And from his zanpakuto came an ominous energy, not threat but more of a warning about if her kick found itself landing true somewhere on Gestalt.