Zanjutsu (LordGalvatron)

Zanjutsu (斬術, "Swordsmanship"; Viz "Art of the Sword"; Cutting Technique) is the fighting style for the (i.e. sword fighting) and is one of the four basic fighting styles of the  known collectively as Zankensoki. Arguably the most important of the fields due to the nature of the Zanpakutō, Lieutenants and Captains of the are often required to achieve considerable skill in this particular way of combat to become worthy of their position.

Arts

 * Chūyōdō (中庸道, "Way of Moderation"): The default fighting style characterised by its versatility and balance. In short it is a solid, comprehensive set of fairly generic moves that constitute the common basis shared between the more defined styles. Even though it lacks any meaningful advantages there are also no drawbacks present to exploit. Additionally, it involves frequent usage of other fields of combat, such as or, in order to supplement the swordsmanship.


 * Ketsugidō (決議道, "Way of Resolution"): This passive form of combat is the preferred style of benign combatants who are unwilling to eliminate their foes. Focussed on perseverance and economy of movement, it emphasises defensive techniques performed with the employment of tight bladework and subtle dodges. The nigh-constant and efficient swings of the sword are intended to cover a wide area and offer substantial protection with little effort on the fighter's part. Composure and focus are essential. As a result, the practitioners of this form aim to outlast their usually more aggressive opponents with impressive resilience and efficient delivery.


 * Kōseidō (攻勢道, "Way of Aggression"): This ferocious and dynamic form of combat is the style of relentless offence. Notable features include a wide variety of circuitous swings and abrupt stabs performed with considerable speed. Additionally, numerous acrobatic manoeuvres such as leaps, sommersaults, backflips and spinning are used extensively to deliver unpredictable attacks and evade the enemy in equal measure. The form is not suitable for defence as its main focus lies on incessant offence. As a consequence of its intensity it is also not really fit for protracted combat.


 * Seimitsudō (精密道, "Way of Precision"): This form focuses on pinpoint accuracy. Most moves consist of swift thrusts and sallies. The intent of this form is to overwhelm the enemy defences with highly accurate attacks of miniscule footprint that repeatedly target vital spots. The bladework is fluent and extremely efficient. This is the most elegant approach of the various forms, and the one most likely to eliminate the adversary quickly. However, due to its relatively straightforward nature seasoned master swordsmen are often capable of defending from the strikes reliably enough to render the form slightly inefficient.


 * Shōmōdō (消耗道, "Way of Attrition"): This style revolves around methodical infliction of various types of pinprick yet enervating wounds. Essentially, the form consists of numerous techniques that gradually impale, cut and shred the extremities of the opponent in order to methodically wear them down with the least effort possible. Seasoned opponents are aware which spots are prime targets for precision strikes, although even they might be surprised by such a consistently circuitous approach. The attacks are substantially less predictable on purpose, and consequently much more difficult to block. Furthermore, this method is highly useful against enemies of superior physical strength. Generally, this form might be employed to weaken a formidable foe in order to render them vulnerable to the more straightforward styles.


 * Azamukidō (欺き道, "Way of Deception"): The most sophisticated form of combat that relies heavily upon elements of prediction and psychological warfare. Combat moves as wells as feints and deceit constitute the form in equal measure. Misdirection, abrupt shifts of stance and winding slashes are par for the course, and no strike hits where it is expected to do. An integral part of this form is the ability to anticipate the reactions of the current opponent. Naturally, the more experienced the adversary the less effective the feints are. Regardless, in the thick of battle there is rarely enough time to properly consider the best course of action and reflexes often guide the reactions. Practitioners of this form are well-aware of those reflexes and aim to exploit the most logical responses. First, they trigger a specific reaction with one move and then immediately transition to another one that is intended to take advantage of that deliberately stimulated response. Out of the six forms Azamukidō represents the pinnacle of swordsmanship. The style is the most difficult to master but also the most rewarding in turn.