Rikimaru Ichinose

Rikimaru Ichinose is a long-time friend of Maki Zhijun. A Shinigami who once held the position of 3rd Seat of the 1st Division, he is now in exile in the Rukon District for unknown reasons. Rikimaru once trained directly under Head-Captain Yamamoto and is considered incredibly powerful by the Soul Society. Although in exile, Rikimaru still helps the Gotei 13 out from time to time and holds no grudge against them. He becomes a Captain among the Ryu Order and is in charge of the Recruitment Squad.

Character Outline
Rikimaru is a tall man who wears a long red coat, red trousers and a black shirt underneath with a pair of goggles around his neck. Rikimaru has long black hair and blue eyes. He normally carries his zanpakuto in his right hand.

Not much of Rikimaru’s character is known. He is quiet, rarely even speaking to Maki who he considers a friend and often does what Maki asks without much resistance, if any. He does seem to like origami, however, and is very good at making complicated shapes.

Background
Rikimaru was trained directly by Head-Captain Yamamoto and served as the Division’s 3rd Seat before unknown events led to his exile. During his exile, he met Maki Zhijun and the two became friends. Somewhere between then and now, Rikimaru mastered the Bankai release of his zanpakuto.

Powers and Abilities
Rikimaru’s full abilities have yet to be revealed, but he has shown some abilities and they are:

Master Swordsmanship Specialist: Having trained under Head-Captain Yamamoto and later with Maki Zhijun, it can be assumed Rikimaru is incredibly skilled in swordsmanship.

Immense Spiritual Energy: Possessing spiritual energy rivalling Maki Zhijun, Rikimaru is incredibly powerful. During training sessions with his previous mentor, Head-Captain Yamamoto, Rikimaru could withstand his spiritual energy with no visible effects.


 * Spiritual Bullet: By hardening a small part of his spiritual energy, Rikimaru flicks his finger and the “bullet” flies incredibly quickly towards a target. Rikimaru can even do this (although limitedly) using only his eyes.

Kido Expert: Rikimaru is skilled in Kido, to the point he can perform spells without even calling a name. His speciality is barriers, some of which are his own creation.

Flash Step Expert: Having been trained by Head-Captain Yamamoto, it can be assumed Rikimaru possesses a great level of skill in Shunpo. His full prowess has yet to be revealed.

Zanpakuto
Shirubā is the name of Rikimaru’s zanpakuto. It takes the form of a long katana with a red colour scheme that matches Rikimaru’s outfit. Like the name suggests, Shirubā’s blade is made of silver.


 * Special Ability: Rikimaru's Shirubā possesses abilities even whilst sealed. They are:


 * Shockwaves: With a mere swing of zanpakuto's blade, Rikimaru is capable of releasing powerful shockwaves with his spiritual energy providing the power and force. The more spiritual energy he uses, the stronger the shockwave becomes.


 * Shockwave Blade: Rikimaru can keep the power from the shockwave wrapped around his sword and release it when he strikes instead. More accurate, but more dangerous because Rikimaru risks getting caught in it as well.

Shikai: Not yet revealed.

Bankai: Not yet Revealed.

Behind the Scenes
Rikimaru's appearance and sealed zanpakuto are based off the character Jiro from the anime/manga series Black Blood Brothers.