Toshiro Hitsugaya, Frozen Passion [REVAMP] [0-5++/0-4/0-3]

» Name: Toshiro Hitsugaya
» Alias: Shiro-chan [Hinamori], Former Captain of the 10 Division,
» Age: Unknown, but is assumed to be around 400 or more, as per the year being over 2400, and his existence during the Bleach canon.
» Gender: Male

» Association: Gotei United, Veteran Division

» Appearance Written: Standing at a minuscule height of four and a half feet, Toshiro is considered to be one of the shortest, if not THE shortest Shinigami known. In fact, this is one of the first things that you would notice about him. Aside from the overbearingly obvious lack of height for him, there is also something that makes him stand out from the crowd, which would be his hair color and hairstyle. Taking a quick look at his hair before the defeat of Aizen, and the end of the Winter War, one would be able to see that he previously had his hair spiked upwards, with a single mildly large strand that broke off at the front and bent downward just to his lower eyelid.

Furthermore, his hair is completely white hair, which, nowadays has been slicked backward slightly, with a few spikes here and there. As for clothing, before Aizen's defeat, Toshiro had worn the usual captain's haori, which he wore above his shihakusho, as did most other captains. Alongside this, he would usually also wear a green sash, which would be draped around his shoulders, and be secured and fastened with a star-like clip. While he wore this type of attire, he wore Hyornimaru, his Zanpakutō, on his back, which would be tied on either end and being held in place by his green sash.

» Appearance Image:





Serious: During his time as a Captain, Toshiro was widely considered to be the complete opposite of his Lieutenant, Rangiku. While she was a very lazy, free-spirited woman, Toshiro was entirely serious. He always put the objective before anything else -- save a comrade's life -- and is not someone who would understand a joke, often having a prickly reaction, rather than laughter. In fact, this causes him to become rather easily annoyed to those who aren't taking things seriously, such as when he leads a team of Shinigami to Ichigo Kurosaki's school, ending with him reprimanding them multiple times as a result of their laxness. While this was mainly due to his duties as a Captain giving him the need to act the way he did, setting an example for those under him, it is something that still hasn't changed very in the four centuries that have passed.

Cold: As noted by many members of the former Gotei 13, Toshiro Hitsugaya is not always a very nice person. In ties to his serious nature, he tends to be extremely harsh. This was shown in prominence in his childhood, as many kids in the Rukon District were afraid of him as a result of his personality being "cold as ice", something even his grandmother agreed on. However, as he grew older, Toshiro began to thaw. While this is something that is still very well present in the current day, he is not as snappy as he was.

This is heavily influenced by his closest friend, Momo Hinamori. She is someone that, throughout the four-hundred years that have passed during this time, been the one person to be able to break through Toshiro's icy exterior. As one of his very few childhood friends and someone who he is very close to, he allows himself to be a bit more lenient with her, often being rather warm and friendly while in Momo's presence. Yet, this does not mean that he excuses her or gives her free passes.

In fact, when she messes up, he tends to be harsher on her than anyone else. This is due to him wanting the best for his friend, as the emotional attachment that she has to him is something that no one else can ever rival with the former Captain. Thus, this slight change in demeanor since the olden days of the Gotei is something that should definitely be noted when it comes to him.

Tolerant: As per being one of the youngest Shinigami to enter the Gotei, let alone become a Captain -- along with being one of the shortest -- it isn't much of a surprise for a lot of jokes to be told behind Toshiro's back. This, like most things, hasn't changed a lot in the vast amount of time that's passed. However, something else that hasn't changed is Toshiro's patience with it. He is very used to the jokes and insults that people have said behind his back. However, just as he was four centuries ago, he doesn't let it get to him, a sign of his maturity, despite his rather young age and less than intimidating stature.

Thus, it should be noted that he rarely ever takes action on those who insult him -- unless it ever should come to one of two things, generally disrespecting himself or the other former Captains -- as with everything that they've done for the Gotei and Soul Society, they have no right to simply disregard all of that and insult them. However, in the case of Momo, this is something that is more as a result of the history that the two of them share. The pain that they've gone through is something that's brought them closer than ever. Thus, with his overprotectiveness of his friend, it feels almost personal to him. And, because of this, it hits a rather bad nerve.

Prologue: Birth/Rukongai Life

Hitsugaya comes from the province of Junrinan in the 1st District of West Rukongai. There, he lived with his grandmother and Momo Hinamori. As a young child, Hitsugaya was a bit of a brat who liked to eat watermelons and poke fun at Hinamori. She called him "Shiro-chan" and he retorted by calling her "Bed-wetter Momo." The two were close friends and Hitsugaya, despite being younger and much shorter than his friend, always felt that he needs to protect her.

Even at a young, untrained age, Hitsugaya could hear the calling of his Zanpakutō spirit, Hyōrinmaru. Despite this, he never told anyone and couldn't accurately determine what was happening other than to assume it was an ever-recurring dream.

When Hinamori left to become a Shinigami, he portrayed himself as happy to see her go, though it was more of an act than his true feelings. Her next door friends were scared of him, even though he had never done anything to them. His grandmother, "Granny," and Hinamori were the only ones in the district that weren't afraid of him. His personality was supposedly "cold as ice" or at least thought to be, and he often wondered if it was due to his appearance or attitude. When Momo had been in the Shinigami Academy for 5 years, he began to notice how he hadn't grown an inch. He noticed that Hinamori's hair grew longer and she visited less often, seemingly having a goal in her life now. He also noticed that "Granny" was getting skinnier.

While out at the market one day a shopkeeper, whom he was buying items from, was treating him disdainfully. He then meets Rangiku Matsumoto, who yells at the shop keeper for being rude to Hitsugaya and reproached him for his poor customer skills. When Hitsugaya turns around, he is knocked down by bumping into Rangiku's bosom. She then yells at him for "lying there and crying about it and not standing up like a man," although it was she who had knocked him down in the first place. He then shakes her off and runs away. Later that night, he has a vivid dream of a gigantic, icy blue, serpentine dragon with large wings and an echoing voice. This dream is markedly different from the previous ones, where he had only experienced sensations, but nothing substantial to what the meaning might be. This time, however, the reason behind the dreams not only materializes but tries to tell him its name. Hitsugaya cannot hear him, however, as his voice is muffled by strong winds. He then wakes up in a cold sweat.

Upon waking up, he sees Rangiku and is surprised to see her in his home. She immediately tells him to stop leaking his Reiatsu everywhere and to get some sleep. She further explains that his grandmother looks pretty cold, which causes Hitsugaya to notice for the first time that the room is exceedingly cold and affecting his grandmother. Rangiku then tells him he should become a Shinigami, stating that kids with power as strong as his need to learn how to bring their power under control. She explains that if he stays the way he is, his power will end up killing his grandmother. At first, Hitsugaya isn't sure what she is talking about, but she calmly places her hand on his chest and asks him if he hears a voice calling out to him. She explains to him that once he has found that voice, he'll understand how to control his power. She then notes that for that to happen he must become a Shinigami.

Soon after, he tells his grandmother of his intentions of becoming a Shinigami. Much to Hitsugaya's surprise, she is happy for him. She tells him that she had always felt that he holds everything in because he didn't want to leave her, but doing so was only hurting him and in turn, seeing him that way, hurt her. Hitsugaya then leaves to follow his own path with his grandmother's blessing.

With Hitsugaya's natural talent, he quickly entered the Shinigami Academy and graduated early despite his age. Hinamori continued to call him "Shirō-chan" out of habit and felt she needed to protect him. Because of a promise she had made, she only began to call him "Hitsugaya-kun" after he had achieved his Zanpakutō's Shikai and was recognized as a Shinigami.

Hitsugaya eventually joined the 10th Division under Isshin Shiba, working his way up to the rank of 3rd seat. One day, Hitsugaya reported to Isshin that a Shinigami in Naruki City died two months ago. Isshin was aware of the situation, having knowledge that the Gotei 13 was investigating the incident. Hitsugaya then informed him that two more individuals died in the past month while investigating the cause. Concerned, Isshin decided to investigate the cause himself. Rangiku tried to go to assist him, but Hitsugaya stopped her, informing her that they were not strong enough to assist him. Afterward, he was also present to witness Rangiku's rage towards their captain for returning to the Living World, seemingly on a whim.

Highly capable and knowledgeable, he quickly became the youngest of the captains within the Gotei 13 in the entire history of Soul Society. He is also a friend of Jidanbō Ikkanzaka, the West Gate Keeper, who taught him the "city rules."

Chapter One: Soul Society Arc

Hitsugaya first appears during the captain's emergency meeting called by Captain-Commander Yamamoto. However, he states that as usual old men are engaging in their pointless arguments in response to the constant bickering between his fellow captains.

Hitsugaya's sharp sense of intuition and a keen sense of observation leads him to suspect 3rd Division captain, Gin Ichimaru, of foul play as the circumstances surrounding the coming execution of Rukia Kuchiki become more complicated. He warns Hinamori of these suspicions, which inspires her to attack Gin following Sōsuke Aizen's apparent murder, leading him to lock both her and Izuru Kira in prison. After they are taken away, Hitsugaya asks Gin whether he was planning on killing Hinamori. Gin calmly denies it, but Hitsugaya threatens to kill Gin if even one drop of Hinamori's blood should be shed on his account.

After Gin releases Kira from his cell, Hitsugaya becomes suspicious and confronts both the lieutenant and captain together. He is interrupted by Hinamori, who now thinks that Hitsugaya murdered Aizen and subsequently tries to kill him. She grips her sword so tightly that her hands bleed. Hitsugaya acts upon his earlier threat and attacks Gin, releasing his Zanpakutō and warning Kira to get out of the way (he suggests at least a twelve-kilometer gap). During their fight, Hitsugaya successfully freezes Gin's left arm, causing him to open his eyes and drop his smile for the first time. Upon being trapped by Hitsugaya, he attempts to kill Hinamori as a distraction, but his attack is blocked by Rangiku Matsumoto, who threatens to fight him if he doesn't stop; Gin relents and disappears without saying a word.

Seeing how destructive Rukia's execution is becoming and now firmly believing that Gin is the one behind it, Hitsugaya begins to wonder about what recent actions are fabricated and what is true. Eventually, he and Matsumoto are interrupted by a Jigokuchō, which relays a message detailing how Rukia's execution has once again been moved up to the next day. Hitsugaya resolves to stop the execution and disrupt Ichimaru's plan by appealing directly to the Central 46.

Upon arriving at the Central Underground Assembly Hall, Hitsugaya and Matsumoto discover all 46 members are dead. Hitsugaya surmises they had been dead for at least 2 days, but he is concerned about the exact time, as Soul Society had been under martial law and their Headquarters had been locked down since Renji's defeat. Further, the 13 seals of protection were still active and there were no signs of intrusion. Hitsugaya then realizes that the only possible scenario is that they were killed before they were sealed in and that all the recent orders that had been given were fake. He then realizes that such a plot would be far too elaborate for Gin to carry out by himself. He then is interrupted by Kira and he and Matsumoto give chase. When he asks Kira if he was behind the Central 46's death, Kira tells him no and that he arrived just after he did. He also informs Hitsugaya that instead of chasing him, he should be protecting Hinamori. He then goes on to explain that she escaped the 10th Division Barracks, explaining that Hinamori excels at Kidō and that breaking his barrier from the inside would be easy for her. Realizing that Hinamori has been following him and Matsumoto the entire time, he turns back and orders Matsumoto to handle Kira.

Hitsugaya returns back to the Central 46 Chambers in time to see Aizen alive and well. Extremely confused at this point, he is surprised to find Gin and Aizen together and referring to the forces of Soul Society as the enemy. Hitsugaya discovers Hinamori injured and asks Aizen when he and Gin became comrades, to which Aizen explains that they have always been comrades. Ever since he had been a captain, the only one he ever thought of as his subordinate was Gin. Hitsugaya then states that he has been deceiving everyone from the start. Aizen then explains his reasoning behind the deception, detailing that he was being compassionate and states that he would teach Hitsugaya that admiration is the furthest thing from understanding. Hitsugaya resolves to kill Aizen for his treachery and releases his Bankai. He then stabs Aizen only to realize it was an illusion from Aizen's Shikai allowing him to land a critical blow to Hitsugaya.

After the ordeal, 4th Division Captain Retsu Unohana shows up and confronts Aizen, who gets away. Unohana takes it upon herself to personally initiate emergency surgery on Hitsugaya and Hinamori. They are found to be in stable condition with Lieutenant Kotetsu handling their post-procedural treatments after Aizen's escape from Soul Society.

Hitsugaya later fully recovers and watches over a still injured and unconscious Hinamori.

Chapter Two: Arrancar Arc

Hitsugaya later leads a group of Shinigami assigned to defend Karakura Town against the Arrancar threat, by dressing up as students at Ichigo's school. Hitsugaya explains to Ichigo the danger that the Arrancar represent to Soul Society. When the group of Arrancar led by Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez attack, Hitsugaya is placed in the battle against Shawlong Koufang. Shawlong easily fends him off, even with him using his Bankai, Daiguren Hyōrinmaru. The two continue to battle with Hitsugaya's attacks still proving to have little effect on the Arrancar. After some more time, Shawlong begins to surmise about Hitsugaya's Bankai. He concludes it wouldn't be right to finish off a captain when he is weak and that to finish of Hitsugaya, while he is in Bankai, is far better. He then proceeds to release his true Hollow form, and his attacks severely wound Hitsugaya.

Shawlong then uses his sharp claws to cut through one of Hitsugaya's Ice wings. He explains the truth about Arrancar and the Espada to Hitsugaya. Soon after, Soul Society finally approves the release of their power limit, allowing Hitsugaya to fight at full strength. Shawlong questions what the limit release is. Hitsugaya explains that it is a precaution seal automatically put on captains and lieutenants when they enter the Real World. Hitsugaya then proceeds to use his Ryūsenka technique. Shawlong calls for a retreat of his group, only to be caught by Hitsugaya and he freezes Shawlong, killing him. However, right after Koufang's defeat, Hitsugaya collapses due to his critical injuries, combined with exhaustion.

Sometime later, Hitsugaya speaks through a video monitor with Yamamoto who is debriefing Hitsugaya on Aizen's plan concerning the King's Key, and the Captain-Commander allows Momo to talk to him. Hitsugaya is somewhat surprised to see her up and asks her if she should even be walking around. Momo tries to persuade him that she is better, though she doesn't look it. Momo apologizes for not believing Hitsugaya and attacking him. Hitsugaya tells her not to worry about as it didn't bother him. He also tells her to get back to bed so she can get rid of those bags under her eyes. Momo thanks Hitsugaya for accepting her apology until he tells her even if she isn't one she looks like a little kid, and if she doesn't sleep more she will not ever grow. Momo yells at him, telling him he isn't one who should talk about growing.

Hitsugaya then reminds her that she is to call him 'Captain Hitsugaya'. As Momo realizes the situation, she asks Hitsugaya if he is going to fight Captain Aizen. To which Hitsugaya says yes, She then asks if he is going to kill Captain Aizen, and then begs him to save Aizen. She explains she knows that what Captain Aizen is doing is bad, but she bets he has a good reason. Expressing her belief, she says that Gin or someone else could be forcing him to engage in his actions. She is quickly knocked out by Yamamoto, to whom he hands over her care to his lieutenant, Chōjirō Sasakibe. Yamamoto apologizes to Hitsugaya, saying he was just respecting her wishes allowing her to speak, but it was perhaps too soon. Hitsugaya is left angered at the state Aizen has left Hinamori in, but he thanks Yamamoto for allowing her to speak with him.

Sometime after being debriefed, Karakura Town is attacked for a second time by the Arrancar. Hitsugaya first pits himself against the 10th Espada Yammy Llargo. Tōshirō's Shikai freezes the Espada, but only for a moment. Yammy comments that the cold attack felt "refreshing." At this point, Tōshirō realizes even his Shikai at 100 percent is not enough to injure the Espada. Their fight is cut short by the new 6th Espada, Luppi Antenor who insists on fighting all of them at once, and proceeds to release his true Hollow form. But realizing the increase in power the Espada will have, Hitsugaya tries to attack before he is able releasing his Bankai. Though initially unable to defend against Luppi's attacks, as he was knocked to the ground in a single hit from the Espada, Hitsugaya comes back with his Bankai renewed and explains its ability. Luppi's inattentiveness gives him ample time to build up a finishing move, using his Sennen Hyōrō technique - just in time to save his subordinates. Luppi escapes death due to Negación, having only been incapacitated by the ice, and promises to kill Hitsugaya in turn.

Upon learning that Orihime has followed the Arrancar back to Hueco Mundo, Hitsugaya and his team return to Soul Society to help in the preparation for the war against Aizen.

Chapter Three: Fake Karakura Town Arc

When Aizen along with his top three Espada attack the Fake Karakura Town, Hitsugaya along with his lieutenant and the rest of the of the Gotei 13 Captains currently not in Hueco Mundo are awaiting for Aizen's arrival. After the defeat of four of Baraggan Louisenbairn's Fracción, everything turns into an all-out war between the remaining Shinigami and the remaining Arrancar. Hitsugaya and Matsumoto end up facing Tier Harribel and her Fracción. While being surrounded, Matsumoto offers her captain to take on all three Fracción, so that Hitsugaya can fight Harribel alone and undisturbed. After Hinamori arrived, Hitsugaya has a flashback of when she asked him to help Aizen, while Harribel asked why his Reiatsu became disordered. He answered her, saying that he doesn't know, though he was wondering why Hinamori was here.

Hitsugaya's match against Harribel seemed to have taken a new turn when the latter sensed her Fraccións' defeat. Harribel forces Hitsugaya back with sheer power from her blade swing and unzips her jacket, revealing her rank as the 3rd Espada which is tattooed on her right breast. Hitsugaya is shocked to find out that Harribel is only 3rd despite her strength. When Harribel taunts Hitsugaya that she has yet to fully demonstrate her strength, Hitsugaya quickly uses Bankai in an attempt to match her very sudden and large increase in power. Harribel rushes him and begins her attack as they come together and lock blades. Harribel knocks Tōshirō to the ground as she mocks him, questioning "whether this is the full strength of a captain". She then promises to end the battle and proceeds to release her Zanpakutō. After releasing, Tōshirō comments to himself that her appearance hasn't changed as much as he predicted, but underestimating her would be a fatal mistake. Harribel proves to be in a different league than the young captain slicing the right side of his body from his shoulder before he even realizes it.

Believing that Hitsugaya has been defeated, Harribel turns her attention to Captain-Commander Yamamoto, though before she can take any action toward him, she is attacked by an unseen assailant. Harribel dodges out of the way only to see that it is an unharmed Hitsugaya, she just as quickly countered his attacks. Noticeably confused as she had seen him cut down, she turns and sees that she has only struck down an ice clone. Hitsugaya claims that it was a one-time technique that he was waiting to use for later in the battle, but Harribel's considerable increase in power and speed as of her release was unexpected. He then comments to her not to underestimate a captain's strength. As their fight ensues, he tells her that he can use any water around him, telling Harribel that she will never reach him. Hitsugaya then attacks Harribel. She reciprocates the situation by melting his ice and stating the iron law of battle. She finally attacks him with his melted ice.

Their exchange of attacks continues and Hitsugaya tells her another law of battle. To which Harribel releases a Cero blast at him, which Hitsugaya comments on it being weak. He concludes that the reason her Cero was so weak, as both of them are waiting for the battlefield to become filled with condensation, from this he states that when that happens Harribel will use the opportunity to finish him off with one blow. Hitsugaya grows tired of waiting and states that he has never tried a particular ability in Bankai mode before, to which Harribel asks what he is talking about. Hitsugaya then explains that he doesn't have to wait for water, as Hyōrinmaru is the most powerful ice-based Zanpakutō, and all water is his weapon and all heaven is under his command.

He then reveals his never before seen power: Hyōten Hyakkasō. Hitsugaya then asks her name, to which she replies; Tier Harribel. Hitsugaya then tells her his name and rank before attacking again. As the sky darkens, snow begins to fall from the sky. Harribel attempts to melt the snow with her Hirviendo ability, but the moment her sword touches the snow, ice flowers begin to bloom on her body. Hitsugaya then calmly states that once one hundred flowers have bloomed, her life would have ended. He then states that she won't be able to avenge her underlings after all.

Seeing the huge creature emerge from the Garganta with Wonderweiss, Hitsugaya looks on at the events taking place. Wonderweiss lets out a huge wail that cracks the ice pillar Harribel is trapped in. Hitsugaya looks surprised as the ice pillar begins to fall apart from around her, and once free, she gazes at him. Hitsugaya is alerted to Aizen's presence when the giant Hollow creature blows out the fire prison that he, Gin, and Tōsen were trapped in. When the Vizard arrives, Hitsugaya is bewildered as to who they are. Hitsugaya is later shocked at the large amount of Gillian-class Menos pouring forth from the giant Hollow creature's mouth. After the Vizard reveals their mask and easily defeat the numerous Gillians, Hitsugaya comments on how powerful they are. While he was contemplating Komamura's declaration that he intends to fight alongside the Vizard, Harribel attempts to attack him while his back is turned. Sensing this, Hitsugaya's hand goes to his Zanpakutō. However, the Vizard Lisa Yadōmaru and Hiyori Sarugaki intervene and deflect the blow before Hitsugaya has a chance to unsheathe his sword. Following this, he comments on how there doesn't seem to be time to worry about whether the vizards are friends or foes, essentially agreeing to fight alongside them.

Hitsugaya asks Hiyori if he can ask her a question, to which she retorts he needs to keep it short and that she won't tell him any more about them. Hitsugaya says it's fine and that he wishes only to ask them for a favor. He asks if Hiyori and Lisa can take on the Espada as he wants to go and fight Aizen. Hiyori yells as him, asking him if he is crazy as the Vizard has come here to kill Aizen as well and that Hitsugaya was already having trouble when they arrived, so what makes him think he can take Aizen. Hitsugaya realizes that he was acting irrationally and that he panicked. Hiyori yells at him some more until he apologizes, and she then berates him further and questions his status as a captain. When she calls him "shorty," Hitsugaya grabs Hiyori and screams at her, telling her she is shorter than him. They continue to fight until they are distracted by Lisa, who is rushing off to fight Tier Harribel.

He, Hiyori, and Lisa attack Harribel with their Shikai, creating a huge explosion. However, the battle is cut short by the intervention of Aizen who cuts down the Tres Espada. Hitsugaya watches in shock as his opponent is defeated by Aizen who, afterward, challenges the Gotei 13 and the Vizard to battle. Hitsugaya gathers with the unoccupied captains and Vizard planning to protect Ichigo Kurosaki from Aizen and his Shikai. Tōshirō is the first to attack Aizen, claiming that if nobody attacked, then the battle would not start. He dismisses Aizen's taunt about him being reckless, saying that causing opponents to miss their opportunities to attack is one of Aizen's specialties. Hitsugaya compliments Aizen for not using his Shikai to evade the initial attack. As Captain Kyōraku attacks Aizen's flank, Sōsuke compliments Tōshirō for being wise enough not to attack him alone.

Hitsugaya asks him about what he previously stated about swords devoid of hatred being like eagles without wings, and tells him that placing responsibility alone in their blades is what it means to be a captain. Captains do not swing their swords out of hatred and tell Aizen that he does not have what it takes to be a captain. Aizen retorts that it is amusing to hear such words from him, as due to what happened to Hinamori, he bears more hatred than any of the captains. As Shunsui attacks Aizen again, Hitsugaya activates his Bankai and admits that his blade is filled with anger. He tells Aizen that he came to Karakura Town to kill him. After the admittance of his hate-filled blade, Hitsugaya declares his motive: "I don't care if I lose my position as a captain, as long as I can kill you". He warns Aizen to prepare himself and proceeds to attack him, but to no avail. After his failed attempt, Komamura and Love step in and attack Aizen simultaneously. Komamura apologizes to Hitsugaya for their intervention, but Hitsugaya tells him he had no intention of fighting Aizen one-on-one.

As Suì-Fēng goes to attack Aizen, Hitsugaya encases Sōsuke's arm and Zanpakutō in ice, much to his surprise. After Aizen is attacked by Suì-Fēng and Shunsui, Hitsugaya tells Aizen it is over and rushes at him. Aizen notes to himself that Hitsugaya is so young, as he sees his chance and takes it without planning ahead. That is his biggest failing. Just then he notices off to the side that Shinji is standing to the side holding up his Sakanade's Shikai and smiling. Aizen then realizes too late that he is already affected by Shinji's perception reversal Shikai, making Hitsugaya not actually attack from the front, but the back, allowing the young captain to stab Aizen through the chest from behind.

When Ichigo shouts at the Shinigami, questioning what they are doing, Tōshirō realizes that it was not Aizen that he has just stabbed. Shocked at the sight of Hinamori impaled on his blade, he cradles her for a moment. After he hears her ask "Shiro-chan...Why?" he lets out a yell of rage before he lunges at Aizen. As Shunsui tells him to wait, Aizen takes complete advantage of Hitsugaya's blinding rage, cutting through Hitsugaya's Bankai and injuring him and the surrounding captains. Hitsugaya loses his left arm and most of his left leg from the attack and begins falling down into the town below. As this is happening, Aizen tells him and the other defeated Shinigami that he won't kill them and that they will watch the outcome of this battle.

10 days later after Aizen is captured and Hitsugaya is fully healed, he begins regularly training in a secluded cave, ashamed at his inability to protect Hinamori despite her surviving. Hitsugaya resolves to get stronger and attain much finer control over Hyōrinmaru. Because of this, it only caused him to have the determination to keep getting stronger, something that quickly turned from ten days into hundreds of years.

Over the course of that time, it wasn't long or much of a surprise that he would still be fighting. Through this, he has gained immense strength, becoming leagues stronger than he was before through the near constant combat against various characters across the multiverse. Whether it be to defend Soul Society, attack in the Gotei's name, or simple by way of training in order to keep himself at his best in the case of those two situations, Toshiro -- over the years, has grown into a fearsome fighter.



Immense Spiritual Power: Tōshirō's spiritual power has the same effect as his Zanpakutō, as it is an elemental representative of ice. His Spiritual Pressure is said to be very large and "cold". Even before he became a Shinigami, his spiritual pressure was immense and uncontrollable, like Ichigo's, and caused people around him to freeze, namely his grandmother, who lived with him at the time. This cold spiritual power of his reflects his attitude as well. He is also the youngest Shinigami to ever achieve their Bankai. He even had visions of Hyōrinmaru's spirit before he attained it or entered the Shinigami academy. He is able to hide his presence well; on several occasions, he manages to surprise Hinamori and Matsumoto with his sudden appearances, which leads them to complain about him "sneaking up" on them.

Expert Strategist & Tactician: Despite his age, Hitsugaya has great instinct and intuition in battle. He is generally aware of everything in his presence and is also able to see through most deceptions. For example, he discerned that Gin Ichimaru was more than he seemed, although he was not yet sharp enough to realize it was all part of Aizen's plot. He is also a keen analyst, able to deduce the basic mechanics behind an opponent's attacks, and quickly figuring out its strength and weakness to better counter it. As a captain, he is a capable leader. He is given missions from Captain-Commander Yamamoto to lead teams into the Human World many times to deal with threats. For example, Hitsugaya led the team sent by Soul Society that reinforced Ichigo's group against the Arrancar. In battle, he has great instincts against incoming danger, such as from his reaction to Harribel's initial attack after releasing.

Child Prodigy: Perhaps the most astonishing trait of Hitsugaya is his intellect and natural talent. He is the most gifted prodigy the Soul Society has had since Gin Ichimaru, entering the Shinigami Academy on his first try despite his young age, graduating from the academy in a single year with the highest written and performance scores in each of his classes, joining the Gotei 13 shortly afterwards, and then becoming the youngest Shinigami to ever reach the rank of captain. He has been called many things due to this. Renji and Iba have called him a child genius, and Ichimaru has called him the embodiment of the "heavenly white angel that blesses Soul Society once a century". In terms of intellect, Hitsugaya is equally impressive. He was the first to suspect Ichimaru of treason and saw that there was more to Rukia's execution than what was being said. Shunsui, one of the strongest Shinigami in history, states that because he is a genius, within 100 years, Hitsugaya could surpass him.

Master Swordsman: As a Captain, as well as someone who has achieved Shikai and Bankai, it shouldn't be surprising that Toshiro is very well versed in the art of the sword. A preference above any other weapon, it's something that very well shows, as most of, if not all of his fights, he has used his sword in some form. His Shikai makes his sword longer, his Bankai encases himself in ice, something that originates from his sword -- whatever the case, his sword is almost always used. This is heavily proven when it comes to his small stature and being able to take advantage of that, allowing him to outmaneuver opponents.

Shunpo Expert: With a large deal of time being placed in training Shunpo, refining the skill as much as he can in training and combat, this is something that is rather natural to him. As per his skill, it's rather easy for Toshiro to be able to reach extremely high distances with a little number of steps performed, as well as being able to expend very little energy while doing so. While this is mainly used often in combat, dodging and potentially blocking attacks -- such as being quick enough to appear in between Hinamori and Kira before they attacked one another -- it still is something that Toshiro is incredibly proficient with.

Hakuda Proficiency: With his natural talent and the young age of graduation of the academy, it shouldn't come as a surprise that Toshiro has at least some level of skill in the Shinigami's hand-to-hand art. While he rarely ever shows this in combat outside of one instance, where he was easily able to knock out a grief-filled Hinamori in mid-air with a single hit. While it is implied that he has more skill, due to his status as a Captain, graduation age, as well as a large amount of general skill, his primary focus lies in his Zanpakuto, leaving him with little, if any other instances where he has used Hakuda.

Kido Proficiency: As a high-level Shinigami, Toshiro has a vast arsenal of Kido that he can use, as his high levels of spiritual power allow him to possess the capacity to perform extremely destructive Hadō spells, or being able to create incredible defenses and bindings with Bakudou, even without the incantation -- although he is fully aware of the downside to this. Regardless, the spells are still very powerful, in their own right.




Extended Life-Spans: This is quite the unique trait that Shinigami possesses over that of Humans. For, unlike human's, Shinigami can retain their visible youth for the many countless centuries to come. Those who are keenly in-tune with their spiritual energy can even greatly expand their lifetimes by upwards of fifty-percent more than usual. More than that, it seems to also reside over into the cosmetic side of things. As trained Shinigami with a good control of their Reiryoku can utilize it in order to preserve their youth for further prolonged periods of time. Furthermore, with the improvements in Modern Medicine over the past few centuries, there are also many various treatments available to Shinigami in order to enhance both their life-spans and physical appearance if need be at times.

Enhanced Endurance: This is quite a noticeable feature in the race of Shinigami. Most Shinigami, in general, possess a very high tolerance for pain and injury than their human and Plus Spirit predecessors. For what would normally be considered a critical to life-threatening injury to a human, a Shinigami would have far higher rates of survival due to the greater amounts of power behind an assault that would be required to essentially kill a Shinigami. An example of this would be a slash to the chest by a Shinigami who is roughly at a Seated Officers level. If this individual had been a regular human, chances are they'd have a good chance of dying from copious amounts of blood loss associated with the tear in their chest. However, since they ascended to that of a Shinigami, they are able to take multiple blows to the chest until they are finally put to a rest. Henceforth, one of the most ensured ways to kill a Shinigami is normally by slashing their head off.

Konso: This is the course of action most Shinigami go through in order to send wandering Souls in the Human World or other realms and send them to their respective place. If they had led a neutral or acceptable life, the most probable place a spirit would end up is in the Soul Society. If the subject in question had led a destructive life that was full of senseless murders, endless amounts of theft and causing general pain upon others, then they'd generally be sent to the pits of Hell itself. Moving onward from that, Konso is usually carried out by using the hilt of a Shinigami's Zanpakutō to press against the forehead of a Soul; thus transporting them into the afterlife. However, it is possible for more skilled Shinigami to perform a mass version of this through a massive burst of their spiritual energy in emergency circumstances. It's also worth noting that this can be applied to other races as well, but the Shinigami actually has to kill them in combat. So, for example, a Shinigami can send a supernatural human to the Soul Society if they engaged in a battle and the Shinigami ended up slaying the human.

Purging Sinister Souls: When a Shinigami is able to kill a Hollow with their Zanpakutō, this process generally leads to them being purged of their sins. After this effect has taken place, a hollow will typically revert back to their previous state as a Plus and will be led back into the pits of the Soul Society. This transformation system is called sublimation; it's essentially a form of rebirth which Shinigami are able to perform. Though, it should be noted that not all Hollows are sent to the Soul Society. Being that Shinigami only have the capacity to cleanse any wrong-doing this being had done after ascending to a hollow, Hollow's which committed heinous acts in their human lives will still be sent back to hell after they are destroyed. In the case of Demon's, however, if a Shinigami becomes powerful enough, they will attempt to purify their soul so that they can be reborn again as either a Human or, if they feel the threat is too dangerous, simply send them to the pits of hell. This can also be applied to other races such as other Shinigami, Sugiura and so forth. They'll simply be returned to the Soul Cycle when killed by a Shinigami.

Kikanshinki: Sometimes known as Account-Replacing SPirit Device, this tool was originally used by Shinigami on humans who have seen Shinigami or Hollows many years ago. However, with supernatural sighting become increasingly common on Earth, they soon switched their priorities around with this device. As of the 25th Century, the Kikanshinki is now a small device which can generate large plumes of smoke. It can be attached to any sort of equipment or clothing which a Shinigami has on them. After taking the appropriate measures to prevent themselves from being affected by this smoke, a user in question can enhance this smoke with their spiritual energy in order to cover a large area of land. If this smoke is inhaled by the target, then they may lose consciousness and wake up later with a new memory. This can be useful against unruly opponents or if they need to keep their presence and information top secret during a mission.

Gigai: These are temporary bodies that Shinigami use in The World of The Living, for the most part at least. They were crafted by the likes of those within the Shinigami Research and Development Institute. As of the past four hundred years, however, this technology has advanced. There are many types of different variants of Giga in the 25th century. Of course, there is are the standard is generally one meant to easily transport Shinigami into the realm of the living within powerless bodies which resemble that of a human. However, thanks to groundbreaking research, there is currently a development meant to expand and encompass this to the incredible amounts of new races which had sprung up over the past four hundred years. So, in other words, Gigai which take the shape of other races are slowly becoming a reality. On top of that, some have even chosen to infuse their Gigai into their body so they can easily shift from their artificial body to that like of their Shinigami; much like in the case of Senna and Shadin Yuudeshi.

Gokon Tekkō V2: This is a device which forcibly removes the Soul from the body. In the early stages of this gadget, it was originally taken in the form of a gauntlet. Though, with the advancements in the past four hundred years, it can now be infused into a willing Shinigami participant's hand and can be mentally summoned in the form of a red glow across their hand. Once this brilliant light is flourished across a Shinigami's hand, they are then able to attempt to remove a soul from a target's body. Rather it is an Arrancar, a Ziamichi or even a Vizard in some instances. This isn't absolute in nature, as depending on the subject in question, it may or may not be effective. Such as if they were able to formulate some sort of internal barrier before they had a chance to enact this ability, or if they simply moved out of the way before they could get injured by it. And, varying by how strong the target is, they may be even able to halve or null the damage with their spiritual energy alone as well.

Jigokuchō: Otherwise known as Hell Butterflies, The Jigokucho serve a large multitude of purposes. When once is summoned by a Shinigami, they'll appear completely black, except for a small outline of maroon along their lower wings. They are utilized in order to guide the Shinigami through various portal's which are made possible in the 25th century if they have not a good idea of the general area they are traveling to. Though, more commonly, they are used to guide the Shinigami inside the paths of a Senkaimon when traveling between the Soul Society and other realms; saving them the inconvenience of generally having to resort other methods of interdimensional travel or being forced to pass through the Dangai. Hell Butterflies are also used in order to swiftly and almost instantly warp important messages to loved ones, allies and sometimes even foes as a warning. And, for the most part, these creatures are often taken care of by new and inexperienced member in the Seireitei. Lastly, much like Shinigami themselves, Jigokuchō are only visible to spiritually aware beings.

Denreishinki v2: Otherwise known as Divine Messenger Machine, this is known as an electronic interdimensional communications device used by Shinigami while on a mission within the Human World. Originally, during the early designs of this device, it was originally secluded to that of a cell phone found throughout the Living Realm in the 21st Century. Yet, as the technology increased, so to did the possibilities of this gadget. Being that many Shinigami had gone through cyber augmentations as of recent years, the newly revamped version of the Denreishinki can send orders, alerts, and information through a vast series of networks. These can arrive in a Shinigami's Cyberbrain, various holographic devices attached to their person or, to be more precise, any electronic device which the Shinigami has in their possession. This is made possible by simply installing a small nanobot, roughly the size of a grain of rice, into the equipment in question and they will be locked into to this vast network of information thanks to the likes of the Yuudeshi Network sharing their Earthly technology with the Gotei 13 as apart of their treaty.

From it, they'll then be able to track all sorts of various alerts in not only the Living Realm but the likes of Demon World, Hueco Mundo and other realms in the known universes. It can be used as GPS tracking system for the likes of their allies, other fellow Gotei 13 operatives, wanted fugitives in the area, Arrancar's, Hollow's, Demon's and enemy forces alike. These can also be used to research information from various fights, the overview of bounty rewards for Shinigami who purify Hollow's, Arrancar or Demon and their logs can be accessed by the likes of those in the Gotei 13. It's even possible to access a live internet stream in order to access further information if they need it: such as the terrain in many parts of the globe, the current event taking place and so on.

Reiryoku And Reiatsu: Most Shinigami naturally possess good qualities of Reiryoku, otherwise known as Spiritual Power. The level of their Reiryoku varies greatly from Shinigami to Shinigami. As the more of this inner energy they possess, the stronger a Shinigami's abilities will become, the keener their senses will be an overall they will be a much more difficult being to kill as their supernatural affinity grows and strengthens as their volume of Spiritual Power expands. Additionally, it also grants them the capacity to detect other spiritual beings without needing to resort to their five basic senses. This is achievable because most types of supernatural creatures emit various levels of Reiryoku which can be detected by a Shinigami. Although, the level in which they can sense varies from Shinigami to Shinigami, for the most part almost every member of this pieces can detect it to an extent.

Furthermore, based on the fact that most creatures which possess Reiryoku have different patterns of Spiritual Energy radiating from them, more trained individuals can even tell the difference between allies, friends and even other races. They may even be able to gauge their comrade's psychological state, for sudden changes in spiritual energy is a sure sign that they are either fighting or have received great injury. This detection system also allows for them discern the spiritual patterns of other races. As, for example, the Reiryoku pattern of Arrancar is quite simple to realize the difference of from that of a Plus, Shinigami or Human.

And, to boot, if a Shinigami is able to continually train their Reiryoku, more interesting developments can occur. One of these improvements is the fact that more advanced level Shinigami are able to control the quantities of spiritual energy which emits from their body. If they were to entirely block this phenomenon out, then they could completely hide their presence away from other sorts of spiritual beings. The reverse effect of this, however, is known as Reiatsu, more commonly called as Spiritual Pressure. This is often considered a great show of power, and in the hands of a skilled individual, can become a form of an attack by itself. Those with high volumes of reiatsu can utilize it to paralyze opponents in some cases, cause direct damage to the surrounding vicinity; including living beings and objects alike and essentially produce other variable effects on the world around them.

Should weaker level souls be around a SHinigami of extreme power, and they decide not to control it, it's even possible for their reiatsu to easily kill lower level beings if they did not realize how much spiritual energy they leak from their body. If someone were in great control of their reiatsu, however, they could even begin to alter the area around them. Such as if one were of an elemental origin, they could infuse these properties into their spiritual pressure in order to produce a freezing effect if they were an ice-based user, or an immense heating effect if they happened to be a Shinigami who possessed a great deal of supernatural ability in the art of firebending. More than just that, more skilled users can even use their reiatsu to harden their skin in order to effectively protect themselves from a wide variety of attacks. Sometimes leading to varied Shinigami battles occasionally leading to one who possesses a greater level of spiritual pressure if they have nothing else left to fight with.

It's also worth mentioning, as a final note, most Shinigami have different reiatsu based colors based on their personality. If one were to have a feisty temper, then chances are they'd have a red, orange or even white spiritual aura around them. While if a Shinigami were calmer, composed and in control of themselves, they may very well have a reiatsu shade of green or blue. What's more, some being can infrequently produce shape or solid forms of their spiritual pressure. Such as one with an animal-based Zanpakutō having their spiritual energy take the shape of a bear or one with an affinity for death having that of a skull emerge behind them.

And so, with all the above said, these two tools are of great value and use to Shinigami. Use them with caution.

» Zanpakutô Name: Hyōrinmaru (氷輪丸, Ice Ring)

» Zanpakutô Appearance: When sealed, Hyōrinmaru looks like a normal katana with the exception of the guard, which is in the shape of a four-pointed bronze-colored star. Its hilt is light blue, and sheath dark blue. The sheath completely dissolves when he draws his sword. The sword is somewhat longer than most Zanpakutō, at about 1.4 meters long. This makes it taller than Hitsugaya, preventing him from wearing it at the hip. Because of this, Hitsugaya instead carries it on his back by his green sash over his right shoulder.


» Inner World: Toshiro's Inner World, after 400 years, has changed quite a lot. The wispy, frozen wasteland that it was before has matured and evolved into a much more "decorative" place. The entire area resembles that of an ice cave, leading to barely any light being present in his inner world, aside from the cracks in the icy ceiling that allow for visibility in the cave. Hundreds of large crystals are protruding from the ground and ceiling, and even from the crystal blue river stream in the middle of it.

However, one of the most interesting traits about Toshiro's Inner World is that there are areas of darkness in the farthest corners of the cardinal directions, and if one were to try and walk through those patches, they would find themselves walking through the same area over and over again, showing the fact that Toshiro's Inner World is infinite.


» Zanpakutō Spirit Appearance: Hyōrinmaru's spirit takes the form of a gigantic, ice blue, serpentine ice dragon with large wings and an echoing voice. Upon further inspection, he can be seen as an enormous Western ice dragon with large wings, thick legs, a dark and muscular stomach, an arching neck with spiked plates running down the back, and a rugged face with teeth overlapping his mouth.

Hyōrinmaru's physical manifestation takes the form of a tall man with an icy blue, X-shaped mark extending across his face, gray eyes, and long, teal-green hair which reaches his lower back. He wears a dark blue chestplate underneath a pale blue kimono, which is connected by two bronze, star-like clips joined by a pale green rope.

The kimono also has a dark blue horizontal stripe on either sleeve, has white edges, and is bound at Hyōrinmaru's waist by a long piece of pale green cloth, which acts as a prehensile tail and is topped with ice. He has a scarf-shaped piece of ice on his shoulders which extends around the back of his neck, and his arms and legs are completely covered in ice.


Sealed Zanpakutô Power: As per being the most powerful ice Zanpakuto to ever exist, it should be fitting for Hyorinmaru's powers to revolve around just that. While the sealed powers of his Zanpakuto fail in comparison to his releases, they are still very versatile, albeit basic. By drawing his Zanpakuto, Toshiro has the ability to apply the energy of himself and Hyorinmaru in the form of a very small level of control over any non-spiritual form of ice and water in the vicinity of a half mile. This can allow him to use his sword as a catalyst, gathering the substances around it and creating small-scale constructs such as weapons or walls.




» Shikai Release Phrase: "Reign over the frosted heavens, Hyourinmaru!"

» Shikai Appearance: In its Shikai, Hyōrinmaru extends slightly in length and gains a crescent-shaped blade attached to its hilt by a long metal chain, which can extend greatly, if necessary, by force of will. The chain itself can be used for attack, or to entangle a target.


Shikai Abilities

Tensō Jūrin (天相従臨, Subjugation of the Heavens): With the release of his Zanpakuto, the level of influence that Toshiro's Shikai has over the environment drastically outplays his Sealed Form. To begin, this allows for a much wider range of effect for this influence to take hold, now being extended to a mile and a half. This, in addition to the range increase, allows for Toshiro to be much more precise with his powers. Thus, he could reach to extremely long distances to both create and control ice and water that would be in his range of influence. However, there are notable differences in this ability, compared to four hundred years prior.

Rather than the extreme underdeveloped state that it was in during the battle with Aizen and the Espada in Fake Karakura Town, Toshiro has spent a great deal of time refining this ability, now able to fully control the potential dangers of this ability and minimalizing the immediate dangers that some would have faced before this. Yet, this ability is far from perfect. While he is able to keep his Shikai from killing whilst allies are in the vicinity, they will suffer gradual effects as the weather gets worse and worse.

[Author's Note: These effects only occur if Toshiro willingly makes the weather worse through the effects of "Tenso Jurin". If not, the only effects that will occur will be the first set, listed within the three to four post range.]

Roughly around three to four post, motor skills will begin to slow -- as the cold air would begin to affect muscles, dropping speed by a level and causing most attacks of both physical and spiritual to move at a moderately slower pace. Around post seven to nine, the temperatures will begin to make the bones of the body much colder, additionally causing the bones to be much more brittle, dropping defense by one level and causing the speed to slow just a little bit more. Not enough to lower another entire skill level, but enough to cause a mild difference.

Smaller versions of this effects continue to occur as the post count increases, never enough to degrade an entire skill level, but enough to, again, cause at least some difference than before. However, this still has some weakness. For example, Toshiro could use this to degrade an enemy's speed and then deactivate it. The effect, as well as the cooldown for how long Toshiro would have to wait before altering the weather's effects, is roughly around three posts. Furthermore, it should be obvious that if an ally were to enter the range of effect, Toshiro would have to actively manipulate the weather around them to keep them from suffering the effects of Tenso Jurin.

Shinkū no Kōri no Yaiba (真空の氷の刃, Vacuum Ice Blade): Similarly to Tenso Jurin, this skill is focused on the general manipulation of water, ice, and snow that the base power of Hyorinmaru possesses. However, unlike Tenso Jurin, this focuses on the channeling of the water and solidifying it into a more precise shape, allowing for much smaller amounts of ice to be used in the process. Through this, it allows him to create things such as "ice threads", where the amount of water is focused on a much smaller area. Ergo, the power is rather deceptive, as these creations still hold a great deal of power, but are just compressed to make up for a lack of aspects such as speed.

Ryōjin Hyōheki (綾陣氷壁, Woven-Ice Wall): This is an application of using ice threads, applying them in a more defensive manner. Through this, Toshiro can use the ice threads in order to create a very finely woven wall of ice, using the threads in order to create a multitude of layers and make his defenses much more solid and...well, defensive. Through the usage of ice threads, this allows him to create a multitude of these barriers in rapid speed -- although the larger amount of walls, the weaker that they will get. However, in general, the usage of the threads causes the wall to have a much higher cap of defense than most of his other defenses, allowing it to tank powerful attacks for around two posts, before having a four to five post cooldown.

Rokui Hyōketsujin (六衣氷結陣, Six-Clothed Ice Binding-Array; Viz "Six-Point Ice Formation"): By placing five ice crystals down in a pentagon formation in a half mile radius, Toshiro can connect these crystals with a small trip-wire of spiritual energy, triggered by the presence of another's spiritual power in the radius upon creation, or from the line of energy being broken. Upon doing so, this causes a pillar of ice to spew from each of the crystals, eventually causing the entire area to be encased in a large pillar of ice, trapping an opponent. While in this zone, the first set of effects of Tenso Jurin begin to take effect, something that gradually builds up over the course of two posts. Over time, these effects and the hollow pillar will slowly vanish over the course of five to six posts, leaving this ability to have a six post cooldown.



» Bankai Name: Daiguren Hyōrinmaru (大紅蓮 氷輪丸, Grand Crimson Lotus Ice Ring)

» Bankai Release Phrase: N/A

» Bankai Release Actions: N/A

» Bankai Appearance: Hitsugaya's Bankai causes ice to flow from Hyōrinmaru onto Hitsugaya, starting at his right arm, which ice forms onto in the shape of a dragon's head around his sword hand, encasing the sword up to the hilt, which also changes from the shape of a four-pointed star to that of an eight-pointed star. The ice continues forming up over his shoulders, with two large wings sprouting from his back and a long tail. The ice forms down his left arm and encases his hand, which ends in a claw. Hitsugaya's feet are encased in ice in a similar manner to his left hand, as they also end in claws.

These new ice limbs are movable and can be used as an extension of himself to aid in battle. During some appearances of his Bankai, three flowers of ice from floating behind him, each consisting of four purple petals shaped like diamonds. These flowers melt away, petal by petal, as Hitsugaya's battle progresses, leading Shawlong Koufang to speculate that Hitsugaya's Bankai will deactivate when all twelve petals disappear, assuming that the captain's Bankai was incomplete due to his young age. During his fight with Luppi, these petals were noticeably absent. However, during his fight in the Fake Karakura Town, they were present once more.


Bankai Abilities

Ice Flowers: These are the three sets of four-leaved ice flowers that float around Toshiro during his Bankai. While they were initially meant to be a showcase of some form of a time limit for the state, they have become much more than that. To begin. these petals become a constant catalyst for the base power of Hyorinmaru, Tenso Jurin. Simply by being present on the battlefield, the petals are able to utilize the radius of Tenso Jurin and draw in all forms of water and ice and storing them in the petals around him. Because of this, Toshiro does not need to expend more energy in order to create and manipulate more ice and water around him.

However, this is also a double-edged sword. One of the main weaknesses of the ice flowers is that, as Toshiro remains in his Bankai, the petals slowly melt away. As a result of this, the extra source that he can draw from becomes more and more limited as time goes on. Taking some information from the Shinigami racial specs, someone of Toshiro's skill would have a post limit of roughly twenty to twenty-five posts before the release state would fate. As a result of this, around every two to three posts, a petal will fade from a flower.

So, it would take roughly around eight to twelve posts in order for one flower to fully melt, of which, this process would repeat with the other two flowers until all three petals have fully melted. When this happens, Toshiro's Bankai will simply melt and evaporate into the air, disappearing as a result of the time limit for his Bankai being reached. Afterward, Toshiro will not be able to access his Bankai for the rest of the thread.

Regeneration: Something that was shown during his fight with Tia Harribel, Toshiro's Bankai is able to use the manipulation of water in order to replace his own energy in the form of regeneration. While was something that was solely created for the purpose of regenerating the Bankai itself, this -- after 400 years and constant refinement of his Zanpakuto -- has extended in order to encompass Toshiro himself, rather than just his Bankai. By either using his energy or by absorbing the water/moisture or ice in the area, Toshiro is able to repair himself on the level of a Master in Regeneration, as per the nature of Bankai and this ability.

However, again, as shown by the battle between Toshiro and Harribel -- the capabilities of this passive ability is rather powerful, but the speed of which is rather slow. It can take a post to recover minor wounds to his body or to his Bankai, but the time increases as the wounds get more and more grievous. For example, large lacerations to the body could be recovered within a two to three post span, while severed limbs could be regrown within three to four posts. However, another downside would be that the high energy cost that this can take if there are a lot of severe wounds that can cause him to use up a large amount of energy in order to recover.

Zanhyō Ningyō (残氷人形, Lingering Ice Puppet/Doll): As shown during the fight with Tia Harribel, Toshiro is able to manipulate the ice around him and create an exact lookalike of himself, of which mimics his actions and fighting style perfectly. However, the previous issue that he had come across this technique was that it was only able to take a single hit and that it only had a single use. But, for the most part, this has been remedied. While the clone still can't take much more than what it used to, it is still mildly durable. Thus, it should be noted that most of the development would be the number of uses that this technique can perform, increasing from a single usage to three times a thread, each one having to wait for four to five posts before being usable again.

Ryūsenka (竜霰花, Dragon Hail Flower): By using the passive abilities of Tenso Jurin to gather a large deal of ice and water at the blade of his sword, Toshiro can mix this with a portion of energy, before thrusting his sword forward -- likely towards enemies -- and causing a massive icy wind to blast from the tip of the blade and reaching out over a fifty foot radius in front of him, and a ten foot radius to the sides. This on its own is able to slow down many who are caught in it, lowering their speed by a level, and constantly degrading it, but never taking it down another level. If someone were to reach Untrained or Beginner speed from this, they would likely be frozen solid in place, unable to move from their position for a post. Afterward, this requires a three post cooldown.

Sennen Hyōrō (千年氷牢, Thousand Years' Ice Prison): As one of his very few defensive-based techniques, this is quite powerful -- as it goes against the usage of ice threads in order to increase the strength of this technique. By gathering ice and moisture in the area, invoking a charge time of a single post, Toshiro can create tens of ice pillars around a thirty-foot area that encircle his enemy for a short time, before closing in and attempting to crush his opponent. While most of the time, this isn't enough to crush an opponent to the point of death, it can be used as a very effective "imprisonment" technique, but using the close space and properties of the ice in order to keep an opponent in place. However, while this is a possibility, it isn't always applicable, as most high-strength users can easily shatter the ice. But, outside of that, most would have to wait for a post before the ice would shatter.

Hyōten Hyakkasō (氷天百華葬, Frozen Heaven Hundred Flower Funeral): This is one of the most powerful abilities that Toshiro has in his arsenal, albeit also one of the most dangerous abilities whenever used with other people, as the large radius and inability to toggle this to be ineffective towards allies can lead to complications. Thus, this is something that is more or less useful when dealing with opponents on his own. So, to begin, Toshiro fires a beam of spiritual energy into the sky -- spreading the influence of his ice and snow manipulation to a three-mile radius around him and utilizing this to cause a massive hole to open in the sky.

Afterward, a colossal amount of snow will fall from the sky. Upon contact, this will cause these snowflakes to sprout into ice flowers. Through this, most of the time these flowers will sprout over the opponent's body, causing the gradual sealing and freezing of their body within a massive ice tower. Over time, the number of flowers on someone's body will cause a variety of effects to occur. But, firstly, it should be noted that this is something that only ten to twenty flowers can bloom on a character per post -- leaving roughly about five to ten posts before the final, drastic effects of this take place.

Thus, as a result of this, the process of this ability is rather slow -- as each passing post (every two posts, starting with the first) causes the opponent's speed to lower further and further, something that eventually will extend to the bodily functions of the opponent. As, near the end of this ability (around eight to nine posts in), they would need to react quickly, or else their brain and heart would cease functioning, and blood would stop flowing. After this occurs, this will lead to either the opponent entering a comatose state -- or, even worse, the death of that character.

However, there are weaknesses that one can use to prevent, or at the very least, slow the effects of Hyoten Hyakkaso. Through the use of extreme amounts of heat, one may be able to melt the ice before it would have the chance to freeze them entirely. Or, as before, slow the effects by keeping their body warm and potentially above the "danger level" for the normal body to reach. However, large enough amounts of brute strength would also be a viable way, destroying the flowers before they are able to overwhelm an opponent.

But, all in all, the main weakness of this ability is the sheer amount of energy it takes to perform, as well as it's singular use -- only being able to be used once in a thread. This can often leave Toshiro exhausted and vulnerable if one were able to persevere or break through the ice. Regardless, this is still fairly powerful and can lead to some serious consequences if not kept in proper check.

Guncho Tsurara (群鳥氷柱, Icicle Flock): This is considered to be a "spammable" ability in Toshiro's arsenal. By freezing the water in the area around him and forming them into a large array of ice daggers, Toshiro can swing his sword and send them flying at incredible speeds, while also retaining their power. These daggers can pierce through thick ice, as well as some defenses (Advanced and lower) with ease, all while keeping the same trajectory and speed. Furthermore, through the large range and scale of his water and ice manipulation, Toshiro can use this trait to reform these ice daggers if they should melt, or shatter -- or even use this to change their shape and attack from a different angle, or attack differently altogether. However, there are some limitations to this. Toshiro can only generate about fifty of this at a time, before waiting for two posts to use it again. Furthermore, these ice daggers have been noticeably weaker in the higher amounts. So, for him, he will often use these in small, powerful bursts in order to ensure the highest amount of damage.

Hyōryū Senbi (氷竜旋尾, Ice Dragon Swirling Tail): By gathering a large amount of spiritual energy into the blade of his sword, Toshiro can swing the weapon in line in order to create a massive overflow of ice in the form of a crescent, which expands and creates a wave that can easily pierce into enemies if they're caught off guard. Furthermore, Toshiro can take advantage of this ability through his manipulation over ice, utilizing this influence in order to send his opponents into the air, able to use this skill in general about five times, before waiting for two posts in order to use this again.

Shichū Hoshi (四柱星, Four Pillar Star): This is quite simple, as it's really cut and dry. By gathering a large amount of ice around him, Toshiro can quickly create four large ice spikes that come from all four directions towards the opponent, aiming to crush them. As a result of this, it can often take a large deal of physical strength in order to keep one's self from being crushed under the four differing pillars, totaling around Advanced Strength. However, there is no special effect beyond that, as it was said before, it is rather cut and dry. It's just an ability to crush the enemy in a collection of pillars, something that can only be used twice per post, and has a four post cooldown.

Hyōrinmaru (氷輪丸, Ice Ring): Iconically named after his Zanpakuto itself, this technique is, in a sense, recreating his Shikai's ability. By gathering a small amount of ice to his sword, Toshiro is able to recreate the ice dragon that forms from the blade of his Shikai by raising his sword into the air, causing the ice to swirl around his body and form the ice dragon, the speed of which allowing the dragon to deflect and protect Toshiro from harm for a very short time. After this, he can point his sword and direct where the dragon will fly, something that he can also perform mentally if he were to be in a situation where he wouldn't be able to utilize the physical command of this ability. However, he is not limited to just one of these at a time. Toshiro is very well able to create three of these at a time, each of which containing Advanced Durability and Strength and all of them lasting about two posts each, before vanishing and having to wait for three posts before using it again.



» Shikokai Name: Shikai Hyōketsu (四界氷結, Four World Freeze)

» Shikokai Release Phrase: "Sit upon this frosted reality, Shikai Hyōketsu."

» Shikokai Release Actions: Allow the final ice petal in his Bankai to fall.

» Shikokai Appearance: Following the final battle against Aizen, Hitsugaya trained and strengthened his Bankai considerably, completing its development after months and years of hard work. However, this allowed him to discover that this was not a further form of his Bankai, but rather, his Shikokai. This form is when Hyōrinmaru reaches completion when he allows the last petal of his ice flowers to fall. As an adult using his Shikokai, Hitsugaya is tall and lanky and has ice covering his shoulders, forearms, and knees.


Shikokai Abilities

Empowered Abilities: As per the nature of releases in general, this state, as does his Bankai, allows him access to all of his previous abilities and techniques that he possessed beforehand, as well as drastically boosting their effectiveness, efficiency, and power. Overall, his abilities will cost a bit less energy than before -- due to such a large amount of his own energy being released and controlled -- as well as being able to hit a lot harder, with a more refined usage of his energy, now that it is entirely unrestricted. Furthermore, this causes the cooldowns of his abilities to be lowered by one and the post limits to increase by one, allowing for a slightly more consistent use of his abilities.

Icy Mist [Passive]: As Toshiro's Shikokai is released, there is a constant icy mist that surrounds him and fogs the area, obscuring most level of vision, unless someone were to be about five to ten feet away from him. However, this goes a step further in that the mist is a constantly active source of energy that Toshiro can utilize with the base power of his Zanpakuto, Tenso Jurin. Through this, he can easily manipulate the moisture of the mist, able to change the properties to make it into ice with just a snap of his fingers -- leaving the mist to be an equally deadly risk as the rest of his abilities.

Cryostasis [Self]: By channeling his energy and altering the temperature in his body, Toshiro can briefly put himself in a state of "cryostasis". Doing so, this causes every nearly every function in his body to cease, and his body is swiftly encased in a small shell of ice. Through this, Toshiro is able to drastically amplify the regeneration ability from his Bankai, now encompassing his the entirety of his body, rather than just the structure of the release form. However, this causes him to be entirely immobile for the duration of the post -- while still keeping his regeneration active. While he is able to regenerate from most small wounds, this causes him to be completely defenseless.

Ergo, large and consistent amounts of damage can be a major weakness, as his regeneration would not be able to repair himself fast enough in order to still be able to fight. Furthermore, this is a single-use in threads and is most commonly used as a way to briefly recover from wounds at a fast rate. However, this doesn't last long -- the duration of Cryostasis only being two posts before the ice would shatter, and Toshiro would be able to move and fight once more. However, as said before, this is something that can only be used once per thread due to the fact that multiple uses of this would eventually prevent his body from starting back up again after being in that state for so long, that it would eventually kill him.

Flash Freeze: Toshiro's prowess over ice has reached an entirely new level within this form. Through this, he is able to combine his ability to manipulate ice as well as his ability to manipulate the temperature in order to channel this and create a massive shift in temperature over a single, fifty-foot radius wherever he is facing, instantly causing all matter in the area to freeze. This can cause him to easily remove a single threat from his immediate danger with something as simple as a wave of his hand. However, this has a very high energy drain, leading this to only be allowed to be used once per post, with a three post cooldown.

Finally, this has noted to affect nearly all forms of matter, outside of other people. So, it should be noted that this can affect things from ranges such as energy attacks and physical projectiles, but this is not able to freeze another person entirely solid. However, this can affect the energy flow of another. For example, if a Zanpakuto is in the area that Toshiro has frozen, this can lead to the enemy's attacks being greatly slowed, with their energy being much slower to summon up and attacks taking much longer to cast and perform. This is something that can affect anyone within the radius -- and, therefore -- can still be of great harm to others if proper countermeasures are not taken.

Internal Frost [Player Permission Only]: As another way of utilizing the manipulation of moisture and temperature, this is a technique that Toshiro can use that, unlike others, deals with directly affecting an opponent. Upon cutting someone with his sword, now made entirely of ice, Toshiro can inject his energy into someone and reach out with his ability to manipulate moisture, and cause the area of where they were cut to slowly freeze. Over the course of three posts, the limb that was cut will eventually freeze solid, and not just the outside. Anything inside the limb will slowly freeze as well, freezing and cutting off the circulation of the said limb for a post, leaving that limb entirely unusable and being quite literal dead weight. However, after using this once, Toshiro is unable to use this again for about seven posts. Ergo, Toshiro must plan carefully in order to figure out how and when to use this effectively.

Frostbite: On a lesser extent to Internal Frost, this ability directly affects all form of cuts that Toshiro makes with his sword, altering it so that every single cut that he makes will cause small fragments of ice to appear around the wound, instantly sealing it. Over time, this will cause large clumps of ice to form around the wound over the course of two to three posts. Most who would attempt to shatter the ice with brute force would require a minimum of Advanced in Strength in order to break through. However, this does have a limit of having to wait for the two to three posts for the ice to fully form, as well as for Toshiro to channel the energy needed in order to create more ice to cover the enemy. So, similarly to Internal Frost, his strikes must be placed carefully in order to fully utilize the effects of this technique.

Granulation (Snow): By utilizing his energy in a way similar to Flash Freezing, Toshiro can use this to deconstruct energy-based attacks and turn them into a pile of snow, allowing him to utilize his base power in order to manipulate the snow for his own needs. Again, like Flash Freezing, this influence reaches out to around a fifty-foot radius around him, granting him quite the range when it comes to how far he can reach with this`. Thus, once someone has released an energy-based attack in the vicinity, Toshiro can coat his energy around the attack and attempt to "override" the energy in that area, using his own to break it down and alter it in a short time, removing the destructive properties of the said attack and turning it into, as said before, snow. Finally, this shares the same post limit and cooldown of Flash Freeze, a single use with a three post cooldown.



General Skills

• Durability: Elite
  
• General Speed: Elite
  
• Strength: Advanced
  
• Martial Skill: Adept
  

Racial Skills

• Hoho: Elite
  
• Kidō: Elite
  
• Zanjutsu: Elite
  
• Hakuda: Adept
  

Will Skills

• Willpower/Determination: Master
  
• Mental Deduction: Master
  
• Focus: Elite
  

A deep sigh came from the Icy Dragoon as he paced about his quarters, his face contorted with more worry than anyone had ever seen him with before. He couldn't sit still. He sat down, stood up, paced some more as the cycle repeats itself over and over again for what felt like hours. The stoic dragon, Hyorinmaru, sat cross-legged on his bed, watching his master make a lap around his room for the umpteenth time.

This time, it was his turn to sigh, something that caused Toshiro to turn around, glaring daggers at him.

"What?" He said, squinting at Hyorinmaru spitefully.

"You're spending too much time on this. Stop pacing around and just take action." The spirit replied.

Toshiro rolled his eyes in response. Well, that was a whole lot of help, now wasn't it? Turning to his desk, he stared at the object that sat there, anxiously pondering on what his choice would be. It was a very special day, one that he picked very carefully for something that was so very important to him. Even now, there was still so much hesitation and anxiety.

For the first time in a very, very long time, he was worried; he was scared.

Fear.

God, that feeling was so strange. The fear for her life after the events in the Fake Karakura Town. Even afterward, he was paranoid about what could happen. But yet, could you really blame him? After all...

"I..." He began, voice barely audible to the room's sole occupant.

His fingers curled inward, hands balling into fists as one of them hovered over his heart. How stupid was this? Toshiro Hitsugaya, the youngest Captain to ever join the Gotei was getting worked up over something as trivial as this. But, yet...for some reason, he couldn't help it. Turning to face the spirit one final time, Toshiro took a deep breath as he quietly walked over to his desk, carefully picking up the small box as he turned around, stepping out the door.

From then on, he didn't utter a single word. Every few steps, he'd take a deep breath, his gaze flickering down to the box, the vice of his hands growing stronger and stronger. One final sigh came from him as he stopped, looking at the door now in front of him. Forcing his trembling to stop, the young man steadily reached up and knocked on the door...and waited.