A meditative state

*Sitting on a mat in the barracks, Rizu has her eyes shut and is focusing on her breathing. She blocks the noises around her out and falls into a deep meditative state.*

...Rizuka...

*Hearing the voice deep in her mind, she reaches out to her subconscious.* Hmm..? Y-yeah?

Rizuka...you've been working very hard. You're growing more and more every day.

*She begins to move closer to her subconscious and sees a bright white whirlpool and feels herself shiver.*

You...you can see me when I'm fighting?

*The voice chuckles.* I don't just see you Rizuka. I feel you. I sense your every move and your resolve. I am with you for every moment of it.

*Rizu reaches out to the whirlpool and it is cold to the touch, but it doesn't bother her. It feels soothing and relaxing, bringing her deeper into her subconscious.* You're my Zanpakuto aren't you?

*The whirlpool slows to a stop and a woman emerges, dressed in a snow white kimono that cuts to her knees with cyan blue hair in two long pigtails with cold white reiatsu surrounding her.* Yes. I am the spirit of your Zanpakuto. I see you fighting so hard each day and never losing your determination. Your ability to sense auras has become a science. Every day is a privilege to be by your side Rizuka.

*Rizu looks up at the woman with determination and nods.* I always feel you in my heart and my mind. You make me as strong as I am and I will always hold you near to me. I only have one thing to ask. Please, what's your name?

*Her zanpakuto smiles softly and walks towards her, as if floating on air. She places her hand on Rizu's shoulder and leans over, whispering quietly.* My name? I thought you'd never ask. My name is...

*Rizu opens her eyes immediately and looks over at her zanpakuto. She lifts it carefully in her hands and stands up, holding the sword horizontally in front of her.*

Engulf. Hisame.