Complete listed story — includes the ending
Bleach, Volume 11
089. Masterly! And Farewell! [ ]
Defeated and saved by Ichigo Kurosaki, 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame tells him where Rukia Kuchiki as Orihime Inoue and Uryū Ishida are confronted by 7th Division 4th Seat Jirōbō Ikkanzaka.
In the Seireitei within Soul Society, upon hearing an explosive sound from the area behind him, 11th Division 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa asks a battle-worn Ganju Shiba if he thinks the fight which was taking place there has ended, though Ganju merely points out that he has no way of knowing this. Claiming that this is a rude response, Yumichika decides that they should finish this and releases his Shikai, Fuji Kujaku, prompting Ganju to call him arrogant as he lights a smoke bomb by scraping it along the length of his left arm gauntlet before throwing it to the ground. Engulfed by a cloud of smoke, Yumichika wonders how it can be stinging his eyes like this as Ganju explains that it is a chili pepper smoke bomb called "Tears of Blood" developed by Kūkaku Shiba, only to begin coughing profusely while realizing that the bomb got him as well. With a confused Yumichika preparing to resume his attack upon noting that Ganju's plan backfired, Ganju runs out of the smoke cloud and away from Yumichika, who is astonished by his response and curses him as unsightly.
Meanwhile, 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame opens his eyes and questions why he is not dead, and when Ichigo Kurosaki greets him while sitting on a piece of rubble nearby, Ikkaku asks him why he is still here. When Ichigo holds up Ikkaku's sealed Zanpakutō and admits that he did not know a Shinigami 's Zanpakutō returns to this state when its owner loses consciousness, a shocked Ikkaku demands that he give it back, which leads Ichigo to assure him that he does not intend to steal it and only wanted the styptic substance contained in the handle before observing that he used it all up and that it is very effective as Ikkaku realizes that his chest wound has been completely sealed up with the styptic substance. Angered by this, Ikkaku claims that Ichigo does not know what he has done, though Ichigo assumes he is referring to not being asked permission first, and asserts that he knew the wound should have killed him. With Ikkaku detailing how having his life saved has shamed him and proclaiming that he would kill Ichigo if he could move right now, an annoyed Ichigo states that he would have let Ikkaku die if he knew the latter would be so belligerent about it.
Standing up, Ichigo explains that he does not care how Ikkaku feels about this and just wants some answers, prompting Ikkaku to note that this is just his luck before sarcastically inquiring if Ichigo wants to know his birthday. However, Ikkaku is shocked when Ichigo asks him where Rukia Kuchiki is, and when Ichigo reveals that he plans to save her, Ikkaku demands to know how big his team is, only to be further dumbfounded when Ichigo flatly states that it is composed of five people and a cat. As he laughs in disbelief at the apparent hopelessness of Ichigo's situation, Ikkaku reopens his chest wound from laughing too hard, to Ichigo's bemusement, and instructs Ichigo to head south from here in order to reach the Gotei 13 barracks. Though Ichigo is bewildered that he is learning this so easily, an irritated Ikkaku asserts that he will not continue his explanation if Ichigo does not listen without interrupting before informing him that he will find Rukia in a white tower at the west end of the barracks.
Ichigo is hesitant to believe this information, but Ikkaku declares that Rukia means nothing to him and that he has no reason to prevent Ichigo from rescuing her. Upon being told by Ikkaku to leave before the others find him, Ichigo thanks him for his help, which leads Ikkaku to request that he not get sentimental over this. Suddenly, as Ichigo begins walking away, Ikkaku realizes something and asks him who the strongest in his team is. When Ichigo confirms that he is the strongest, Ikkaku warns him to beware his captain, Kenpachi Zaraki, because the latter will likely go after Ichigo and ignore his weaker friends. With Ichigo noting that he must be tough, Ikkaku asserts that he will find out if Ichigo lives long enough to face him, prompting Ichigo to nervously inquire what Kenpachi's name is.
Elsewhere, Kenpachi is angered to find himself standing in front of another dead end, and when his lieutenant, Yachiru Kusajishi, criticizes him for having no sense of direction while clinging to his shoulder, Kenpachi reminds her that it was her hunch which brought them here. As Kenpachi runs off to another location with Yachiru, Orihime Inoue and Uryū Ishida poke their heads over the ridge of a nearby roof before expressing relief at them being gone. With Orihime observing that Kenpachi and Yachiru did not notice them despite seeming strong, Uryū theorizes that they are strong with low spiritual detection abilities like Ichigo as he wonders where they should go now. When Orihime points toward the Senzaikyū in the distance and suggests that they go toward the tower, Uryū turns toward her while picking up on her mention of a tower, only to be shocked upon seeing 7th Division 4th Seat Jirōbō Ikkanzaka standing behind Orihime and swinging his Zanpakutō toward her. Smashing his Zanpakutō into the section of the roof where Orihime was standing, Jirōbō realizes that she is no longer there and looks behind him to see Uryū holding a stunned Orihime, which prompts Jirōbō to praise Uryū's reflexes in saving her from such a close-range attack before proclaiming that he will give them time to feel regret for encountering him because they would have lived much longer had they not.
090. See You Under a Firework [ ]
While Ichigo Kurosaki finds himself being chased by more Shinigami, Ganju defeats 11th Division 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa.
As he runs down a street in the Seireitei, Ichigo Kurosaki questions where Ganju Shiba has run off to and vaguely recalls 11th Division 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa 's face while noting that Ganju will need help because he likely cannot handle someone of his rank, which he was informed of by 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame. Angered by his continued inability to find Ganju, Ichigo loudly demands to know where he is and instructs Ganju to fire a rocket into the air if he can hear him, only to realize that Goteitaishi and three other members of the Eleventh Division are smoking and playing cards a few meters away from him. With Goteitaishi and the other Shinigami abandoning their game to pursue him while proclaiming that they will kill him or die trying, an embarrassed Ichigo runs away and admits that he forgot how he is being chased as well before resuming his calls for Ganju, which Goteitaishi interprets as him expressing fear for his life while promising that Ichigo will not escape him.
Nearby, Yumichika stands over a bloodied Ganju, who is sitting against a wall, and notes that he must be exhausted as he praises Ganju for evading running away for such a long time, which Yumichika considers doing well even though it was in an unsightly manner. When an irritated Ganju calls him annoying, Yumichika brushes this off as the natural response of the unsightly envying the beautiful before inquiring if it is Ichigo whom he can hear calling out to Ganju. With Ichigo continuing to run away from Goteitaishi and the other Shinigami nearby, Yumichika asserts that he is no less unsightly than Ganju because he is only attracting more Shinigami while looking for Ganju, whom he decides is a little slow. However, Ganju claims that Yumichika is the slow one and reaches behind his waist as he points out how Ichigo being here means that he must have killed Ikkaku.
Shocked by this, Yumichika declares that this is impossible due to Ikkaku being the 3rd Seat of the strongest division in the Gotei 13 as Ganju pulls out a series of wrapped tubes bound together by a fuse, the end of which he scrapes along the length of his right arm gauntlet before throwing the tubes at Yumichika. With the tubes detonating in minor explosions in front of Yumichika's face, Ganju begins running away once more, prompting an irritated Yumichika to observe that Ganju's only skill seems to be running away. As he pulls several small bombs out of his vest, Ganju unleashes them on Yumichika as he uses Shiba-shiki Shaka Sendan: Senpen Banka, only for Yumichika to slash his Shikai, Fuji Kujaku, through them while calling this a childish trick. Upon reaching the edge of another execution pit, Ganju moves his hand across the ground in a circular motion before Yumichika kicks him in the chest, sending him flying across the ground to the wall at the other end of the pit's edge. Questioning if Ganju ever learns and if fleeing and scratching the ground are the extent of his abilities, Yumichika theorizes that he intends to use one of his spells to kill them both by causing the ground to crumble, which leads Ganju to assert that killing himself to take out Yumichika would be a waste while moving his hand in a circular motion across the section of ground he is crouching on.
When Ganju dodges his subsequent slash that cuts through the wall behind where he was standing, Yumichika commends him for having enough stamina to still move this well after spending so long dodging and responding to his attacks. However, as Ganju mentally notes that he only needs a little more preparation and will have to catch Yumichika off-guard for this to work, Yumichika angrily claims that Ganju would have been one of his favorites had he been born beautiful and appears behind Ganju before slashing him across his back, resulting in Ganju being sent hurtling over the edge of the pit. Upon seeing Ganju manage to stop his fall by grabbing onto the edge of the pit at the last second, Yumichika sarcastically states that his will to live is inspiring and walks up to him as he explains how Ganju should at least die beautifully rather than continue to live an unsightly life, only for Ganju to assert that they have different concepts of beauty because he was taught to survive no matter what. With Yumichika shocked to see him making another circle with his hand, Ganju uses Seppa on the portion of the ground he is standing on, and when Yumichika grabs onto the edge of the pit as well after slipping down the sandy slope, Ganju leaps back up onto the ground by pushing himself off of Yumichika's head.
As Ganju makes one more circle on the ground with his hand, Yumichika attempts to leap back up while berating Ganju for daring to place his unsightly hand on his head, but Ganju proclaims that it is over and slams his palm onto the ground as he unleashes Renkan Seppa Sen, causing a large chunk of the ground in front of him and below Yumichika to be severed from the rest of the ground and begin sliding into the pit. Though he manages to escape falling into the pit by leaping high into the air and criticizes Ganju for thinking this would end it, Yumichika is surprised to see Ganju standing beneath him with a large firework in his hand as the latter throws it at him, resulting in a screaming Yumichika being defeated as the firework explodes in his face. Upon seeing the resulting firework in the air above him, Ichigo realizes that this is where Ganju is and berates him for not launching it sooner as he stands over an unconscious Goteitaishi and the other Shinigami.
091. KING OF FREISCHÜTZ [ ]
Though 7th Division 4th Seat Jirōbō Ikkanzaka is confident that his weapons mastery and Zanpakutō will grant him victory, Uryū Ishida quickly proves that he is far superior.
Walking along a rooftop, Yoruichi Shihōin senses clashes of Reiatsu all over the Seireitei and counts three of them before cautioning the Ryoka to stay alive.
On another rooftop, 7th Division 4th Seat Jirōbō Ikkanzaka stares down Orihime Inoue and Uryū Ishida as he counts to ten while holding his Zanpakutō horizontally in front of him. Upon realizing that Uryū is still holding her, Orihime assures him that she is okay, which Uryū acknowledges as he lets go of her. Orihime looks at Uryū and notes that his expression is different before recalling how he briefly disappeared from her senses and saved her from Jirōbō before she even knew he was there. As she observes that he has undergone such a drastic change just from facing a Shinigami because they are still the enemies of the Quincy like Yoruichi told her, Jirōbō finishes counting to ten and inquires if they were able to regret sufficiently. With Uryū noting that the battle is about to start, Jirōbō proclaims that they will soon have all eternity to regret as he swings his Zanpakutō down at Uryū and Orihime.
Jirōbō's attack cuts through the roof in a torrent of force as Orihime and Uryū leap away on either side of him. Summoning Tsubaki, Orihime fires him at Jirōbō and attempts to use Koten Zanshun, but Jirōbō contemptuously slashes through Tsubaki mid-flight, sending him flying back with a gash in his shoulder as Orihime frantically calls out to him. Upon being caught by Orihime, Tsubaki merely criticizes her for her poor attack power and returns to her hairpin, which leaves Orihime confused while Jirōbō appears behind her and admits that he has never seen such a move before stating that he could not sense any murderous intent behind her attack. As he asserts that Orihime cannot kill a Shinigami with such an attack even if it works on Hollows, Jirōbō mocks her for thinking this is a playground and declares that she cannot accomplish anything with an attack that lacks murderous intent as he brings his Zanpakutō down onto her, only to be interrupted when a Heilig Pfeil slams into his hand, pushing his blade away from Orihime and wounding the back of his hand.
With Jirōbō stunned by this, Uryū informs him that he can find plenty of murderous intent in his bow as he stands with the new version of his Heilig Bogen, Kojaku, formed and with steam trailing from his fingers. Seeing this, Jirōbō inquires if Uryū is a Quincy, which the latter confirms as Orihime mentally observes how much his Kojaku has changed in its physical appearance and Reiatsu. As Orihime realizes that Uryū trained by himself in order to learn how to handle the Sanrei Glove that Kojaku is attached to, Jirōbō chuckles and claims that it will be fun to face a Quincy and a girl with mysterious abilities, which he considers a happy coincidence of fate to have both of as his opponents, before proclaiming that he will show Uryū the true form of his Zanpakutō while releasing his Shikai, Tsunzakigarasu, causing the blade of his Zanpakutō to separate into dozens of spinning, radially symmetrical, dual-edged blades that begin whirling through the air around him as he places the hilt of his Zanpakutō into its scabbard.
Jirōbō tells Uryū and a shocked Orihime to feel regret and introduces himself as well as his moniker of Kamaitachi, which he explains is the mark of the ultimate weapons master because no one other than him has ever seen these blades flying through the air and lived. However, while Jirōbō asserts that Uryū must regret meeting him as a fellow weapons master due to how terrifying Tsunzakigarasu is, Uryū instantly destroys all the flying blades of Tsunzakigarasu with dozens of individual Heilig Pfeil fired all around Jirōbō, who is left stunned, and observes that the weapons masters of Soul Society like to make long and boring speeches unlike those in the Human World. Though Jirōbō nervously claims that this was just luck and begins to recreate his blades by pulling his hilt back out of his Zanpakutō's scabbard, Uryū states that he still does not get it and fires another Heilig Pfeil that shatters the newly-formed blades and part of Jirōbō's hilt as it tears out a chunk of his hand, leaving him to scream in pain as Uryū explains that Jirōbō will no longer be able to call himself ultimate after today because he is far superior in weapon mastery before noting that he does not like the way Kamaitachi Uryū sounds.
092. Masterly! And Farewell! [Reprise] [ ]
Uryū Ishida defeats 7th Division 4th Seat Jirōbō Ikkanzaka as Ichigo Kurosaki and Ganju Shiba continue fending off the Shinigami.
With a chunk of his left hand destroyed by a Heilig Pfeil from Uryū Ishida, 7th Division 4th Seat Jirōbō Ikkanzaka clutches his damaged hand by the wrist and screams in pain while a stunned Orihime Inoue notes that Uryū is completely different from the young man who fought Ichigo Kurosaki before. As Jirōbō pants and sweats heavily, Uryū approaches him and inquires if Jirōbō is feeling some regret now as a weapons master who had the misfortune of meeting Uryū. Angered by this, Jirōbō turns to Orihime and moves to grab her while reiterating his claim that Uryū is the one who will feel regret, only for Uryū to move between the two of them and question if Jirōbō planned on attacking Orihime or taking her hostage due to being unable to fight Uryū himself.
Drawing back another Heilig Pfeil in his Heilig Bogen, Kojaku, Uryū observes that Jirōbō has been after Orihime from the very beginning and dismisses the idea of him endangering her by accident due to being clumsy before asserting that no one with a shred of honor fights in such a manner. Uryū bids Jirōbō farewell while noting that it would be a waste to allow him time for regret, and as Jirōbō screams in terror, Uryū shoots him in the chest with two Heilig Pfeil, sending Jirōbō flying back. As Uryū retracts Kojaku and stares at his steaming Sanrei Glove, Orihime thanks him and finishes his sentence when Uryū begins to bashfully claim that it was nothing, leading her to smile at his surprised stare. When Orihime asks him if Jirōbō is dead, Uryū denies this and explains that he simply destroyed Jirōbō's Saketsu and Hakusui, which will allow him to live but result in him losing his spiritual powers forever and likely never being a Shinigami again. After declaring that the battle is over, Uryū tells Orihime that they should go, and the two begin walking away as Orihime recalls Yoruichi Shihōin 's explanation of how Quincy fight by gathering Reishi and observes that Uryū's Sanrei Glove must increase his ability to gather Reishi. Orihime realizes that Uryū trained alone because he did not want to hurt them in the process of learning to control such power, and as she expresses amazement at him being able to control this power and fight so well after just ten days of training, Orihime somberly wonders what she accomplished in those ten days because she does not feel any stronger at all.
Elsewhere in the Seireitei, Ganju Shiba screams as he runs from several Shinigami and frantically questions why they always chase him. When the Shinigami call him ugly as they tell him to halt, Ganju admits that the man he fought prior was attractive before claiming that all the Shinigami chasing him are just as ugly as he is, only to begin crying and note that he is not going to win this argument as the angered Shinigami continue calling him ugly. Upon seeing Ichigo running out of a street intersecting with the one he is running down and happily assuming that he has come to provide backup, Ganju is shocked to see several more Shinigami chasing after Ichigo, who nonchalantly waves to Ganju as the latter berates him for being chased as well. Though Ganju tells him to stop waving because he is angering the Shinigami behind him as they decide to kill Ganju as well for being Ichigo's friend, Ichigo continues running toward him and leaps into the air to kick a Shinigami behind Ganju in the face as Ganju punches another Shinigami approaching him in the face. Landing behind Ganju, Ichigo draws his Shikai, Zangetsu, and tells Ganju to duck before defeating several more Shinigami.
Nearby, as he runs through a street with members of his division, 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada hears the noises of battle and wonders what is happening, prompting 3rd Seat Yasochika Iemura to berate him for talking because this is not a drill, and while Hanatarō meekly apologizes, Iemura informs the Shinigami engaged in combat that the first, fourth, and sixteenth relief teams of the Fourth Division will arrive momentarily as he leads Hanatarō, 8th Seat Harunobu Ogidō, and several others through the streets.
Back at the scene of the battle, Ganju stands with Ichigo in the middle of several incapacitated Shinigami and criticizes him for swinging Zangetsu around without warning like this. When an irritated Ichigo points out how he told him to duck, Ganju claims that he did not get enough time and could have been killed before questioning what they are going to do now due to the remaining Shinigami not seeming like the type to retreat and Ichigo having only taken out the others with the element of surprise. As he approaches the cluster of Shinigami from the outside, Hanatarō looks around for the members of his division and bemoans having lost track of them after simply stopping to tie his sandal before deciding to ask the assembled Shinigami for directions, only to trip on a raised tile and crash headlong into two of the Shinigami, who begin berating and beating him up as he apologizes. With Ichigo and Ganju wondering what is going on, Hanatarō falls into the center with them, and as a grinning Ganju reveals that he has just though of a way out of this, Ichigo notes that he just had the same thought while Hanatarō nervously greets them.
093. Steer For the Star [ ]
Ichigo Kurosaki and Ganju Shiba 's plan to take 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada hostage fails while 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame is interrogated while recovering from his fight.
Lying on the ground in front of Ichigo Kurosaki and Ganju Shiba, 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada nervously picks up on their mention of getting out of here and inquires if they are the Ryoka, only for Ichigo and Ganju to pick him up and hold Ichigo's Shikai, Zangetsu, to his neck while demanding that the other Shinigami get out of the way before they harm a screaming Hanatarō. However, the Shinigami merely stare in silence at this before two of them question what Ichigo and Ganju are doing, and as a confused Ichigo states that they have a hostage, one of the Shinigami observes that they are not Hanatarō's friends. As Hanatarō tells Ichigo that he is with the Fourth Division while they are with the Eleventh Division, another Shinigami details how the Eleventh Division is the ultimate combat unit of the Gotei 13 while the Fourth Division is only fit for relief work due to being weak, and the assembled Shinigami begin laughing hysterically while proclaiming that they hate the Fourth Division and urging Ichigo and Ganju to kill Hanatarō because it will be a bonus for them. Shocked by this, Ganju declares it would be totally heartless for them to kill Hanatarō, who screams in terror while Ichigo agrees. With the Shinigami rushing toward them, an exasperated Ichigo asserts that they will just have to fight their way out.
Suddenly, the Shinigami approaching them from the front are engulfed in a large explosion of force that knocks down part of the wall next to them. Though Ganju questions what this was as Hanatarō is left quivering in fright, Ichigo admits that he does not know before proclaiming that this is their chance because half of the enemies are gone as he begins attacking the Shinigami behind him with Ganju carrying Hanatarō behind him. While Ichigo fights his way through the remaining Shinigami, Yasutora Sado steps through the hole in the wall and looks over the incapacitated Shinigami as he wonders if he missed Ichigo despite feeling his Reiryoku here earlier. Upon being confronted by more Shinigami from the Eleventh Division who demand to know if he is one of the intruders, Sado confirms this and responds to their subsequent promise to kill him within five minutes by apologizing and asserting that this will be over in two minutes as energy begins flaring from his Fullbring, Brazo Derecha de Gigante, to their shock.
Meanwhile, at the Sōgō Kyūgo Tsumesho in the Fourth Division barracks, 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi blasts a small hole into the wall as he stands with his lieutenant, Nemu Kurotsuchi, and angrily observes that 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame is refusing to talk while the latter lies on a bed with multiple bandages and looks away from him. When one of the nurses pleads with him to stop due to such post-combat interrogation being forbidden within the Sōgō Kyūgo Tsumesho, Mayuri blasts a hole into the door frame next to her and orders her to shut up before threatening to break Nemu into pieces again when she begins to speak up, which she meekly apologizes for. Seeing this, Ikkaku clarifies that he is not refusing to talk and asserts that he does not know anything about the Ryoka 's destination or objectives, and when an irate Mayuri inquires if Ikkaku is saying that he lost and came here without obtaining any intelligence, Ikkaku confirms this as he claims that he also did not see the enemy's face or hear his voice, meaning that he has nothing to tell Mayuri.
Furious, Mayuri raises his hand and declares that Ikkaku's punishment shall match his failure, only for 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki to appear and grab his wrist as he observes the irregularity of Mayuri being authorized to punish Shinigami from other divisions. Mayuri frees himself from Kenpachi's grasp and decides to retreat due to the latter's presence before ordering Nemu to leave as well, which she complies with. Watching this, Kenpachi turns back to Ikkaku, and as the latter greets him, his lieutenant, Yachiru Kusajishi, pops up from behind his shoulder and greets Ikkaku, who expresses surprise as he returns the greeting. With Yachiru asserting that they were worried about him and calling him "baldy", Ikkaku calmly reminds her that he instructed to not call him this as Kenpachi observes that he seems to have lost his fight.
Affirming this, Ikkaku admits that he knows it is shameful to lose and return alive, but Kenpachi brushes this off and inquires if the one he fought was that strong, which Ikkaku also confirms. Upon being asked to describe Ichigo, Ikkaku details how he has orange hair and a sword as long as he is tall before noting that he was heading for the Shishinrō in Senzaikyū, leading Kenpachi to realize that he is after Rukia Kuchiki. Ikkaku explains that he warned Ichigo to be wary of Kenpachi and observes that the latter should enjoy a great fight when he meets Ichigo because his strength is still growing despite how strong he already is, meaning that he should be quite powerful by the time he meets Kenpachi. Intrigued by this, Kenpachi asks Ikkaku for Ichigo's name.
Elsewhere, as they all hide in a storage room, Hanatarō introduces himself to Ichigo and Ganju, who simultaneously declare that his name is so ordinary that it is hard to remember. Flustered by this, Hanatarō claims that those around him say his name is good and easy to remember, but Ichigo merely lists similar-sounding alternatives that would sound better while Ganju wonders why Hanatarō is introducing himself even though he is their enemy. When Hanatarō admits that he does not know, Ichigo questions why Ganju brought Hanatarō along, prompting Ganju to explain that he was distracted and dragged Hanatarō with them without thinking. As they look over a hand-drawn map of their location within the Seireitei, Ichigo inquires which road they should take to reach Senzaikyū if they know Rukia is in there, only for Ganju to admit that he does not know before asserting that they do not want to encounter any of the captains while Ichigo realizes the map does not have any roads and bemoans his own stupidity.
With Hanatarō picking up on their mention of Rukia, Ichigo tells him to shut up because they are in the middle of a strategy meeting and Ganju assures him that he can leave because he is of no use to them anyway, but Ichigo whirls around in astonishment when Hanatarō asks them if they are referring to Rukia Kuchiki. Identifying Rukia as the sister of 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki and the prisoner in Senzaikyū, Hanatarō reveals that he knows a secret path to Senzaikyū.
094. Gaol Named Remorse [ ]
Led to Senzaikyū with Ganju Shiba by 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada after learning of Rukia Kuchiki 's thoughts on their friendship, Ichigo finds himself confronted by 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai.
4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada guides Ichigo Kurosaki and Ganju Shiba through a massive network of canals located underneath the Seireitei as Ichigo admits that he never would have guessed such a thing was down here. As Hanatarō explains how the canals span the entirety of the Seireitei and allow those who enter the network to go anywhere they want to unimpeded, Ganju questions if the other Shinigami do not know where the entrance to the canals is since they simply lifted a flagstone to enter, and Hanatarō confirms this before stating that he does not think they will be caught because only the Fourth Division knows the network well due to specializing in supplies and relief, leading Ganju to assume that this is a supply route and only the supply unit knows the layout. However, an embarrassed Hanatarō clarifies that the Fourth Division is simply in charge of cleaning it because they get assigned a lot of menial tasks due to not being very strong, and while Ganju observes that the Fourth Division is somewhat pathetic, Ichigo asks Hanatarō why he is helping them. Though Ichigo inquires if he is leading them without asking any questions because they want to go to Senzaikyū, Hanatarō reveals that he has heard a lot about Ichigo from Rukia Kuchiki and knows him well before expressing his desire for Ichigo to save Rukia.
Sitting with Ichigo and Ganju in an alcove along one of the passageways, Hanatarō explains how Rukia was held in the Sixth Division 's prison ward before she was transferred to Senzaikyū, where he was assigned cleaning duties, and admits that he was initially afraid of Rukia because she was an aristocrat, only to be relieved when she kindly asked him to call her Rukia after he first referred to her as Miss Kuchiki instead. As he notes that he could not wait to clean her cell each day from that point on, Hanatarō recounts how Rukia told him lots of things, many of which were about Ichigo, and relays her observation of feeling able to trust Ichigo completely despite only spending two months with him before recalling how Rukia claimed Ichigo's fate had been twisted because of her, which left her thinking she had hurt him terribly and could never make up for what she had done to him, and always looked sad when she spoke of this. Stunned by this, Ganju expresses confusion at Rukia being such a strange Shinigami, and as he affirms this, Ichigo declares that this is why he came here to save her and begins briskly walking away, prompting Hanatarō to wonder if he said something wrong while Ganju states that he does not know. While he continues to walk ahead of them, Ichigo thinks about Rukia's trust in him and guilt over what happened to him before proclaiming that he will not let her die because he is the one who owes her.
Meanwhile, at a lieutenants meeting, 4th Division 7th Seat Yasochika Iemura stands before 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto, 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira, 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai, 9th Division Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi, and 7th Division Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba as he reports the defeat of 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame and 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa in battle. Upon learning that the Eleventh Division has been nearly wiped out, a stunned Hisagi wonders how the Ryoka could inflict so much damage so quickly while Renji internally expresses shock. With Iemura detailing how they have confirmed three Ryoka so far and revealing that two of them are advancing in this direction with a member of his division taken hostage, Iba notes that he has not heard from 7th Division 4th Seat Jirōbō Ikkanzaka for a considerable period of time and requests that they search in the area of twenty west for him before affirming Rangiku's identification of him, prompting Hisagi to express astonishment at the Ryoka defeating Jidanbō Ikkanzaka 's little brother as well. However, when she nervously turns to Renji in search of solidarity over how strange these events are, Hinamori discovers that he has left through a nearby window.
Outside the steps leading up to Senzaikyū, Hanatarō lifts up a flagstone-covered hatch and looks around before telling Ichigo and Ganju that it is safe for them to come up. While Ichigo and Ganju climb onto the stones outside and express relief at being able to breathe fresh air again, Hanatarō explains that the canals do not go all the way to the base of Senzaikyū and that this is the closest exit as he directs Ichigo's attention to Senzaikyū itself, where he observes Rukia is located. Suddenly, as Ganju admits that it looks forbidding and likely means that their journey will only get tougher from here on out, Ichigo grows serious and steps in front of Ganju, who questions what is wrong. Holding a hand out in front of Ganju to keep him back, Ichigo informs him and Hanatarō that someone is on the steps leading up to Senzaikyū as the mist in front of them clears to reveal Renji, who pushes up his visor and inquires if Ichigo remembers him after such a long time as Ichigo identifies him.
095. CRUSH [ ]
Ichigo Kurosaki begins fighting 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai for the second time, only to discover that the latter is more powerful than he thought.
As he descends the steps from Senzaikyū toward Ichigo Kurosaki, Ganju Shiba, and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai praises Ichigo for remembering his name, and when an unnerved Ganju wonders who Renji is due to his strong Reiatsu, a shaking and sweating Hanatarō identifies him, leaving Ganju shocked at being confronted by a lieutenant. Admitting his surprise at Ichigo surviving what he believed was a fatal attack from his captain, Byakuya Kuchiki, Renji compliments his tenacity and unsheathes his Zanpakutō while asserting that it ends here because he promised to kill the one who took Rukia Kuchiki 's powers and she cannot get them back as long as Ichigo lives. However, Ichigo merely points out that Renji was willing to kill Rukia just to bring her back here and draws his Shikai, Zangetsu, before telling Renji that he will either let him pass or be forced to kill Ichigo while running forward. With Renji claiming that they will let strength decide, he and Ichigo clash in a shockwave of force.
Pushed back by the force of their clash, Ichigo and Renji press forward and cross blades once more, resulting in another shockwave emanating outward from them. From afar, Ganju watches this in astonishment and asserts that there is no way for Ichigo to win against a lieutenant despite how strong he is. However, Hanatarō denies this and instructs Ganju to look closely at Ichigo, who pushes Renji back to the wall next to the base of the steps with the force behind his strike. A stunned Hanatarō observes that Ichigo is overwhelming Renji and wonders just what he is, leading Ganju to admit that he would like to know this as well. While continuing to hold back Ichigo, Renji inquires how he plans to save Rukia, and when Ichigo expresses confusion at this, Renji details how there are eleven more lieutenants and thirteen captains to deal with even if Ichigo defeats him here, all of whom Ichigo will have to defeat in order to save Rukia. When Renji asks him if he really believes that he can do this, Ichigo proclaims that he has to and pushes Renji's Zanpakutō back further while declaring that he will crush anyone who gets in his way regardless of who they are.
Questioning where this bravado comes from, Renji tells Ichigo to not delude himself just because he escaped death a few times and berates him for thinking that his Zanpakutō changing made him stronger before sending Ichigo flying backward into the air with a slash from his Zanpakutō. With Ichigo shocked by this, Renji releases his Shikai, Zabimaru, and sends it toward Ichigo, who blocks its end segment with the broad side of Zangetsu as he lands on the ground, only to find himself unable to stop it as Zabimaru continues to extend and smashes Ichigo into a building next to Hanatarō. As Ganju and Hanatarō express concern for Ichigo, Renji retracts Zabimaru and theorizes that Ichigo thought he knew Renji's power because they fought before. Renji approaches the hole he left Ichigo in and reveals that Shinigami of lieutenant rank or higher have their power suppressed when they go to the Human World in order to avoid harming the Humans nearby before declaring that he is five times stronger than he was during their previous battle, which leads him to believe that Ichigo cannot defeat him no matter how much stronger he has gotten. Despite this, Ichigo merely notes that this is Renji's real strength and asserts that it is not enough before emerging from the hole in the building with a bleeding head wound, and with Ichigo claiming that he might just have a chance if all the lieutenants are at this level of power, a grinning Renji calls him a fool.
096. BLOODRED CONFLICT [ ]
With his friends noticing his absence, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai continues battling Ichigo Kurosaki and demonstrates his formidable power and skill.
With Ichigo Kurosaki standing with a bleeding head wound after withstanding an attack from 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai 's Shikai, Zabimaru, Ganju Shiba expresses concern for him while 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada asks him if he is alright. As Hanatarō expresses amazement at Ichigo remaining standing after this, Ichigo mentally notes that he is dizzy due to a combination of how powerful Renji's last attack was and him losing too much blood against 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame, and as Ichigo orders his body to stop swaying, Renji observes that he can barely stand despite his confident speech and leaps into the air before slamming Zabimaru down onto Ichigo, slicing through the length of the building behind him while he declares that he is finishing this.
Having blocked the brunt of Renji's blow with his own Shikai, Zangetsu, Ichigo leaps into the air with a new wound on his left shoulder and jumps onto the roof of the building next to the one Renji just slashed through, prompting Renji to slice diagonally through the roof of that building and the corner of the roof next to it as Ichigo runs along it. With Renji jumping onto the roof behind him, Ichigo turns around and clashes with him once more, resulting in an explosion of force. As he watches this from the ground with Ganju, an astonished Hanatarō expresses disbelief at Ichigo fighting a lieutenant while the two continue to struggle.
Elsewhere, 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira expresses shock upon being informed by 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori that Renji is missing and inquires where he is, which leads Hinamori to admit that she does not know because he disappeared during the lieutenants meeting before revealing that she found his lieutenant's badge in his room when she looked for him there. Further shocked by this, Izuru asks Hinamori if she informed her captain, Sousuke Aizen, of this, but Hinamori denies this and explains that she did not do so because she did not want Renji to get into trouble, though she quickly clarifies that she does not believe Aizen would be unfair to Renji. Affirming this, Izuru assures Hinamori that she did the right thing because they do not know why Renji is missing and questions why he would disappear at a time like this before noting that it must have been urgent if he left his lieutenant's badge behind while under orders to wear it and expressing concern at Renji getting himself into trouble over his concern for Rukia Kuchiki. With Izuru promising to look for Renji as well and ensure that his captain, Gin Ichimaru, does not find out, Hinamori thanks him and looks up to the sky as she wonders where Renji is.
Back outside the stairs leading up to Senzaikyū, Renji slams Zabimaru into Ichigo, who blocks with Zabimaru and is sent crashing backward into a wall. A panting Renji sees Ichigo pushing himself to his feet by using Zangetsu as a crutch and admits that he is tough before questioning if he really wants to save Rukia, only for Ichigo to clarify that he is going to save her. Angered by this, Renji brings Zabimaru down on Ichigo once more, slicing into his right shoulder, and demands that he be silent because his theft of Rukia's powers is why she was condemned to begin with. As he continues to attack Ichigo, Renji berates him for having the audacity to show his face in Soul Society and say that he is going to save Rukia even though she is going to die because of him, but Ichigo merely informs Renji that he knows Rukia is going to die because of him before proclaiming that this is why he is going to save her as he pushes the segments of Zabimaru away.
After retracting Zabimaru, Renji angrily extends it toward Ichigo once more as the latter mentally notes that Renji can only perform three consecutive attacks with it. Ichigo recalls Kisuke Urahara explaining that an attack can be employed fewer times in succession in direct correlation to its power, with a revolver being able to fire six times and a missile only firing once, and asserting that the number of consecutive attacks is always pre-determined. As he observes how Renji can swing Zabimaru once in its normal state and strike two more times while it is extended for a total of three attacks before being forced to retract it after the third attack, Ichigo remembers Urahara instructing him to determine the maximum number of attacks because a desperate opponent will always strike the maximum number of times, which will allow him to attack while the opponent is vulnerable and defenseless between the end of the first series of attacks and the start of the second. Dodging Renji's first two strikes, Ichigo blocks the third with Zangetsu and rushes toward a surprised Renji while the latter is still retracting Zabimaru. However, as Ichigo declares that it is over, Renji dodges his subsequent slash with Shunpo, leaving Ichigo stunned, and reiterates his assertion that Ichigo has no chance of beating him before slashing Ichigo across the chest with Zabimaru.
097. Talk About Your Fear [ ]
Recalling his training with Kisuke Urahara to use his Getsuga Tenshō technique at will, Ichigo Kurosaki finds the strength to defeat 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai.
As blood spurts from his wound, Ichigo Kurosaki collapses against a broken wall and wonders how 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai dodged his last attack. Assuming that Ichigo is wondering how he evaded this attack, Renji commends Ichigo as having a good plan to strike between consecutive attacks and perfect timing before asserting that Ichigo was unable to kill him because he is too slow. After declaring that he is simply and brutally far out of Ichigo's league, Renji raises his Shikai, Zabimaru, above his head and proclaims that Ichigo cannot save Rukia Kuchiki because he is already dead as he brings Zabimaru down onto him in a powerful strike, to the shock of Ganju Shiba and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada.
In the past, while training with Kisuke Urahara in his Study Chamber, Ichigo narrowly dodges an attack from the former that shatters a rock behind where he was standing, and as Urahara flatly states that he cannot run away, Ichigo angrily points out that Urahara tried to kill him just now and that he would have been killed had he not run. However, Urahara reveals that this is the point and explains how he is trying to corner Ichigo and drive him to the edge so he can learn to deliver the killing blow at any time. With Urahara indicating the massive chasm in the ground left by his unconscious firing of a Getsuga Tenshō, Ichigo claims that this was due to luck and not something he can perform on command, but Urahara insists that he has to be able to do it on command because he is on the verge of learning how to fight by activating the true power of his Zanpakutō. Describing Ichigo as having talent but only being as strong as a 3rd or 4th Seat at best, Urahara informs Ichigo that the enormous strength of Shinigami requires him to master this attack in order to be their equal.
Ichigo concedes this but admits that he does not even remember how he performed this attack due to how desperate he was at the time, only for Urahara to conclude that he is driving Ichigo to the edge in order to make him remember as he leaps forward and jabs at Ichigo with his Shikai, Benihime, which Ichigo blocks with the broad side of his own Shikai, Zangetsu, before sending him flying backward, where he crashes into the top of a large rock formation. Though Tessai Tsukabishi and Ururu Tsumugiya attempt to move to Ichigo's side in order to tend to his injuries, Urahara appears before them and instructs the two of them to hold back for now as he ascends the side of the rock. As he tries to catch his breath, Ichigo is stunned to see Urahara appear in front of him and attack once more, resulting in Ichigo crashing into a second rock formation nearby after being sent hurtling off the top of the first one, to Jinta Hanakari 's astonishment.
Having carved a trench into the top of the rock with his crash, Ichigo coughs as Urahara criticizes him for falling apart after being pressed only a little and expresses disappointment in Ichigo's condition before asserting that his blade only resonates with fear. Urahara details how Ichigo's every move revolves around his fear and declares that this will not bring him victory in battle because nothing is born of fear as he tells Ichigo that his actions should revolve around his resolve to kill and not let himself or others be killed. When Urahara points out how Benihime is filled with the resolve to kill him, Ichigo gets to his feet and raises Zangetsu above his head as his Reiatsu surges, and while Urahara notes that he is capable of resolve after all and instructs Ichigo to never forget this feeling, he uses Nake, Benihime to fire an energy blast at Ichigo as the latter unleashes a Getsuga Tenshō.
In the present, Ichigo catches the end segment of Zabimaru with his bare hand, shocking Renji, and apologizes for keeping Renji waiting before revealing that he has resolved to kill Renji. Leaping backwards, a stunned Renji wonders how Ichigo recovered like this. Upon seeing Ichigo raising Zangetsu above his head with his Reiatsu surging, Renji attempts to slash at him, only to find Zabimaru shattered by Ichigo's subsequent Getsuga Tenshō. With his visor broken and his hairband destroyed, causing his hair to flair out around him, Renji is cut down the length of his chest.
098. 星と野良犬 [ ]
Reflecting on his past growing up with Rukia Kuchiki, a defeated 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai begs Ichigo Kurosaki to save her in his stead.
Bleeding from his massive wound as his hair comes undone, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai wonders how Ichigo Kurosaki got him and mentally admits that he has been defeated as he stares at Ichigo, who stands several feet away while also bleeding. As he realizes that his arms and legs will not move, Renji questions how he could have lost like this and screams in anguish while thinking of Rukia Kuchiki.
In the distant past, in the Inuzuri district of southern Rukongai, a young Renji and his friends flee from an old man wielding a sickle while carrying jugs of water. Threatening to kill Renji and his friends for stealing the water which he stole first, the old man gives them ten seconds to stop, only to skip straight to ten and proclaim that he will kill them even if they return the water as one of Renji's friends nervously asks him what they are going to do. Suddenly, with Renji observing that the four quarters of the Rukongai divided into 80 districts each were safest at the center next to the Seireitei and extremely dangerous at the outskirts where he was, Rukia appears and trips up the old man, and while Renji's astonished friends ask an equally surprised Renji if he knows her, Rukia stomps on the old man's head repeatedly before running past Renji's group while telling them to follow her. Though Renji initially protests, upon being asked by Rukia if he wants someone to steal the water he is carrying away from him, he and his friends quickly begin running after her as he observes that Rukia was their center from that day on.
Renji describes Rukia as being a strange girl who was bossy and talked like a boy but whose elegance showed in everything she did. As he recalls how only he and Rukia had strong spiritual powers within their group, Renji notices his friends staring in awe at Rukia's demonstration of her natural affinity at channeling her Reiryoku and hits them for getting soft over a girl while noting that they were a family drawn together by their hatred for Inuzuri and all the people living in it. After recounting how all the adults were criminals and their kids were stray dogs, leaving them surrounded by human garbage, Renji asserts that there was only one way to escape. Renji stands with Rukia ten years later as the latter tells him that they should become Shinigami so they can live inside the Seireitei where life is better. Agreeing with this, Renji reflects on how they had formed a surrogate family due to coming to Soul Society alone and observes that the Rukongai was hard on children while he and Rukia stand in front of three graves, where their other friends were buried.
After remembering how he and Rukia were accepted into the Shin'ō Academy due to having some talent and rose through the ranks despite being surrounded by arrogant nobles, Renji runs through the halls of the academy to Rukia's room one day and slides open the doors while confidently announcing his passing of the secondary class, only to find Rukia standing with Byakuya Kuchiki and the Nobutsune Seike. Seeing Byakuya's kenseikan, a stunned Renji realizes that he is a noble as Nobutsune observes that they have been interrupted and departs with Byakuya while telling Rukia that they hope she will accept their proposal. Left unable to move by Byakuya's intense Reiatsu as he walks past, an astonished Renji wonders who he could be, only to be brought back to reality by Rukia saying his name.
Upon being asked by Renji what this meeting was about, Rukia reveals that she is going to be adopted into the Kuchiki Clan, to Renji's shock, and sadly explains that she will be graduating soon because they have arranged for her to enter the Gotei 13. However, as Rukia begins to express her doubts over this, Renji merely claims that this is great, to Rukia's bewilderment, and points out how the Kuchiki Clan is an important family that will prevent Rukia from ever going hungry again should she join their ranks. With Rukia staring at him, Renji wonders what nobles eat and proclaims that he is jealous over Rukia getting to graduate early as he claps a hand onto her shoulder, only for Rukia to somberly push away his hand and thank him for his words as she leaves. Reflecting on this, Renji recalls his motivation of not getting in the way of Rukia having a real family and letting her go so she could be happy.
In the present, Renji begins staggering forward and continues to bleed as he admits that he may have simply been afraid at the time. After asserting that he will always be a stray dog and cursing his own lack of courage, Renji reaches Ichigo and grabs him by the collar while explaining that he has never been strong enough to beat Byakuya even after training every day since Rukia left. Declaring that he is not strong enough to save Rukia, Renji begs Ichigo to save her as he acknowledges the shame he brings upon himself in doing so, leading Ichigo to somberly promise that he will.
Bleach, Volume 12
099. Dead Black War Cloud [ ]
While 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada tends to Ichigo Kurosaki 's wounds, the Gotei 13 reacts to the defeat of one of its lieutenants, Renji Abarai.
Clutching a bloodied and injured Ichigo Kurosaki by the collar, a grievously wounded 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai collapses, and as he stares down at Renji solemnly, Ichigo collapses as well, prompting Ganju Shiba to call out to him in concern while running to Ichigo's side alongside 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada. As Ganju frantically asks Ichigo if he is okay, Hanatarō mentally expresses amazement at Ichigo defeating a lieutenant and wonders who exactly he is. Suddenly, Hanatarō notices multiple Shinigami approaching and relays this to Ganju, who hoists Ichigo over his shoulder and declares that they do not need company right now before instructing Hanatarō to take them somewhere quiet.
Shortly afterward, 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira arrives alongside three subordinates, all of whom are shocked by Renji's condition. While two of the other Shinigami rush over to Renji's side, Izuru expresses disbelief at Renji having been defeated and watches the two Shinigami pick up Renji so they can move him elsewhere. Upon being asked by the third Shinigami if they should chase after the ones who defeated Renji because they seem to have fled, Izuru denies this because saving Renji is their top priority at the moment. Meanwhile, in the canal network underneath the Seireitei, Ganju waits outside a doorway leading to a room within one of the walls, where an unconscious Ichigo lies on the ground, and expresses surprise at Hanatarō having healing powers because he was under the impression that the Fourth Division uses medicine, prompting Hanatarō to explain that Shinigami of the Fourth Division can uniquely use their Reiryoku for healing while the other Shinigami can use it solely for combat, which he notes is basically their only power. When Ganju inquires how bad Ichigo's condition is, Hanatarō admits that it is bad, but asserts that he will be able to fully heal Ichigo in one night.
Elsewhere, 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori is left horrified by an unconscious Renji's condition as she stands over him with Izuru inside a small waiting room. Though Izuru apologizes for Renji's injuries likely resulting from him not reaching Renji sooner, Hinamori assures him that it is not his fault. However, as Izuru promises to contact the Fourth Division and have them send a high-level healing unit to tend to Renji, 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki appears behind Hinamori and states that this will not be necessary before coldly ordering them to throw Renji into a cell. A stunned Hinamori attempts to point out how Renji fought the Ryoka by himself, only for Byakuya to dismiss this on the grounds of Renji not being allowed to lose after choosing to fight alone. With Byakuya claiming that they do not have any need for beaten fools and reiterating his command for them to take Renji away while preparing to depart, an angered Hinamori protests how he is speaking of his lieutenant, leading Izuru to frantically tell her to shut up. As Byakuya looks back at them from the other doorway, Izuru bows and apologizes, with Hinamori reluctantly following suit while Byakuya walks away.
Suddenly, 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru comments on how scary Byakuya is, surprising Hinamori, and as Izuru addresses him, Gin observes that Byakuya is always like this before assuring the two of them to not worry because he will contact the Fourth Division. When Gin tells Izuru to come with him and walks away, Izuru complies, leaving a flustered Hinamori to bow while thanking Gin. As Hinamori solemnly looks down, 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya appears behind her and bluntly notes that Renji has been severely beaten up, prompting a shocked Hinamori to yell his name in irritation. Though Hitsugaya insists that she address him by his title because he is a captain now, Hinamori berates him for being another captain who sneaks up on people and questions what he is doing here without his lieutenant. Hitsugaya reveals that he has come here to warn Hinamori to beware the Third Division, especially Gin, and admits that he is not sure about Izuru before elaborating further to a speechless Hinamori.
Meanwhile, in the captains' assembly hall in the First Division barracks, Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto stands before the assembled captains and proclaims that the situation is dire because they have lost a lieutenant of the Gotei 13, making this a matter for their best people. After noting that he will overlook Gin's earlier actions, to the latter's gratitude, Yamamoto details how he is permitting all high-ranking Shinigami, including lieutenants, to be armed with their Zanpakutō and use full wartime powers within the Seireitei before sternly concluding that they will declare all-out war on the Ryoka.
100. それは岩壁の花に似て [ ]
Ichigo Kurosaki continues to be healed while 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori, uncertain about the decision to declare war on the Ryoka, makes a horrifying discovery.
Upon regaining consciousness, Ichigo Kurosaki is greeted by 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada, who instructs him to not move because his wounds have not closed yet while treating his injuries. Recalling how he fought 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai, Ichigo suddenly sits up, and despite Hanatarō's protests over him moving, Ichigo asserts that he is alright and that he has to go. However, when Ichigo attempts to walk out the nearby doorway, Ganju Shiba punches him in the face, knocking him out and sending him crashing to the ground. Ganju observes that Ichigo is not alright if he can be knocked out by Ganju so easily and orders him to sleep until his wounds heal. Dragging Ichigo back, Hanatarō bemoans the addition of another wound and tells Ganju that he is too rough, though Ganju questions what he was supposed to do and declares that he got the job done in stopping him. As he looks at the wound on Ichigo's chest, Hanatarō mentally notes that it is shallow despite extending from his shoulder to his chest and admits that he thought it would be fatal before looking over at a Hollow-like mask he had found in Ichigo's pocket, which he concludes saved Ichigo from being killed by that attack. Hanatarō wonders what the mask could be made of to stop Renji's Shikai, Zabimaru, why it looks like the mask of a Hollow, and what Ichigo could be doing with it.
Elsewhere, in a cell, a 4th Division Shinigami finishes his treatment of an unconscious Renji for the day and leaves him lying chained to his bed and handcuffed while the guard unlocks the cell door for him. Meanwhile, in the Fifth Division barracks, several Shinigami relay the announcement of the wartime exception to the Gotei 13. Informing Lieutenant Momo Hinamori of this in her room, one of the Shinigami elaborates that this means all high-ranking Shinigami, including lieutenants, are permitted to carry their Zanpakutō within the court and full wartime usage of them is permitted by Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto himself, leading him to request that Hinamori be on her guard because the Ryoka could attack the barracks at any time after defeating Renji even though they have tightened their defenses, which she acknowledges. After the Shinigami departs, Hinamori remains kneeling in her room and wonders how the situation could have escalated to the point of them needing to carry their Zanpakutō. As she recalls 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya 's warning to not trust the Third Division, Hinamori tells her captain, Sousuke Aizen, that she does not want to fight.
That night, as he writes a letter in his own room, Aizen notices Hinamori standing outside the sliding doors to his room and inquires if something is wrong. Apologizing as she enters Aizen's room, Hinamori requests a moment to speak with Aizen and acknowledges how rude it is of her to do so at such a late hour before bashfully promising to not fall asleep in front of Aizen, who merely covers her with his robe while questioning if she really thought he would cold-heartedly send her away for being rude and inviting Hinamori to come inside and stay until she calms down because she must have had a difficult day. Shortly afterward, Hinamori sits behind Aizen, and when the latter observes that he heard Renji is going to live, Hinamori expresses relief, prompting Aizen to detail how 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki was met with opposition when he called for Renji to be discharged. While Aizen concludes that Renji will be able to rejoin the Gotei 13 once his wounds heal, Hinamori asks him if he was part of this opposition, only for a smiling Aizen to clarify that no one in the Gotei 13 wants to see him discharged because he is a strong fighter and well-liked by everyone. Hinamori mentally notes that everything about Aizen soothes her fears and expresses her happiness at having come here tonight and for being able to work under Aizen.
Later that night, with Hinamori sleeping in his bed, Aizen steps outside, closes the doors behind him, and silently begins walking away, only to stop when someone steps out behind him. The next morning, Hinamori bolts awake and apologizes for dozing off, only to find that Aizen is gone. When her alarm goes off, Hinamori expresses shock at the time and gets dressed before running out as she questions why Aizen did not wake her up if he woke up before she did and expresses uncertainty if she will make it to the assembly on time. Upon encountering a roadblock on the walkway, Hinamori jumps over it to take a shortcut and confidently declares that she will make it to assembly on time, but stops in her tracks and screams loudly upon seeing something ahead. Alerted upon hearing this, 9th Division Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi, 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto, 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira, and 7th Division Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba rush over to the East Holy Wall where they heard the scream emanate from as a concerned Izuru identifies it as Hinamori's voice. However, upon reaching a stunned and tearful Hinamori while inquiring what happened, the lieutenants are shocked to find her staring up at Aizen, who has been impaled through the chest to the top of the East Holy Wall with his own Zanpakutō and looks down at them with dead eyes.
101. Split Under The Red Stalk [ ]
Recalling 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya 's warning, 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori attacks 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru under the assumption that he killed her captain, Sousuke Aizen, while a fully healed Ichigo Kurosaki resumes his journey to reach Senzaikyū.
Screaming in anguish over having found the body of her captain, Sousuke Aizen, pinned to the top of the East Holy Wall with his own Zanpakutō, 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori tearfully calls out to Aizen over and over while 7th Division Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba, 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto, 9th Division Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi, and 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira stand behind her in stunned silence. Suddenly, 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru inquires why they are making so much noise so early in the morning as he appears behind them. As she looks at Gin, Hinamori recalls 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya 's warning for her to beware the Third Division, especially when Aizen goes out alone.
A furious Hinamori exerts her Reiatsu and accuses Gin of having done this before leaping toward him and attempting to slash at Gin with her Zanpakutō, only for Izuru to intercept her at the last second by blocking her strike with his own Zanpakutō. When Hinamori questions why he has done this, Izuru asserts that he cannot allow anyone to draw a sword against his captain for any reason as the 3rd Division Lieutenant, and though Hinamori tearfully begs him to move aside twice, Izuru staunchly refuses both times, prompting an enraged Hinamori to demand that he move while Izuru emphatically refuses once more. Releasing her Shikai, Tobiume, Hinamori unleashes a fireball that creates a large explosion, knocking a shocked Izuru back while she assumes a battle stance. Though Izuru criticizes her releasing her Zanpakutō here and asserts that this is no place to resolve personal matters, Hinamori does not respond and launches another fireball at him, which Izuru dodges before noting that he now has no choice but to treat Hinamori like an enemy.
However, as Izuru leaps into the air and releases his own Shikai, Wabisuke, while coming down onto Hinamori, their clash is interrupted by Hitsugaya, who blocks Izuru's subsequent strike and pins Tobiume to the floor with his foot as he tells both Izuru and Hinamori to not move. With Hinamori stunned by his arrival, Hitsugaya commands the other lieutenants to arrest her and Izuru, which they do, and declares that he will report this to Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto before ordering the lieutenants to take them away. While Hinamori and Izuru are taken away, Gin apologizes to Hitsugaya for Izuru troubling him, but Hitsugaya observes that Gin just tried to kill Hinamori, and though Gin denies knowing what he is talking about, Hitsugaya promises to kill him if he makes Hinamori bleed, prompting Gin to claim that Hitsugaya is scaring him before noting that he should keep an eye on Hinamori so no misfortune befalls her.
Meanwhile, in the canal network underneath the Seireitei, Ganju Shiba wakes up to find 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada drooling on his pant leg as he sleeps. Irritated by this, Ganju stands up and pushes Hanatarō away while berating him for sleeping on his lap and slobbering all over his best pair of pants. When Ichigo Kurosaki admonishes him for this because Hanatarō is exhausted and it is only a little drool, Ganju is astonished to see him standing fully healed nearby and questions if he is better already, leading Ichigo to confirm that this is true thanks to Hanatarō before observing that Ganju should be feeling better too because Hanatarō healed his wounds while he was still fatigued from healing Ichigo's. With Ganju looking at the still-sleeping Hanatarō in surprise, Ichigo proclaims that they are going to try to enter Senzaikyū one more time and that he will make it this time.
Atop the wall surrounding Senzaikyū and the buildings around it, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki waits.
102. Nobody Beats [ ]
With Yasutora Sado heading for a confrontation with 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku, Ichigo Kurosaki and his friends reach Senzaikyū, but are overwhelmed by the monstrous Reiatsu of 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki, who lurks nearby in search of Ichigo.
In the past, in Karakura Town in the Human World, a bloodied Ichigo Kurosaki lies on the ground in an alleyway and mistakes Yasutora Sado 's name tag as reading "Chad", which the latter corrects. When Ichigo inquires if he is wearing a Karakura High School 's uniform while observing his size and how they have never met before, Sado reveals that he transferred in today in class 2-F, shocking Ichigo with them being the same age and in the same class. As he gets to his feet, Ichigo thanks Sado for helping him, and when a surprised Sado questions if he should be standing up, Ichigo assures him that he is fine, though an unconvinced Sado points out how he is bleeding from his forehead. Ichigo acknowledges and declares that he would have won had they not used rocks.
Upon being asked by Sado if he provoked the boys lying unconscious around them because they are third year students, Ichigo denies this and explains that they ganged on him because he has strange hair and they hate anyone who stands out, which he notes must be the case for Sado as well due to him also standing out. Picking up his school bag, Ichigo tells Sado that they should get going and begins walking out of the alley while staggering, leading Sado to correct his usage of "Chad" as he points out Ichigo's unstable walking. As the two of them walk away, Ichigo asks Sado if he does not like the name "Chad" because it is a cool name like Dominic Chad, and when Sado admits that he has never heard of this man, a bemused Ichigo inquires if he knows Chad Smith, though Sado denies knowledge of him as well before mentioning that he does know Eugene Chadbourne, to Ichigo's confusion.
In the present in Soul Society, Sado opens his eyes and sits up on top of a stack of crates in a warehouse as he notes that it was just a dream about the past like that of an old man. Upon hearing voices of Shinigami outside preparing to search the warehouse he is in and seeing the barricaded door being banged against, Sado manifests his Fullbring, Brazo Derecha de Gigante, and observes that it is a good thing he woke up early because he would have had a bad day if the banging had woken him up.
Meanwhile, in the canal network underneath the Seireitei, Ichigo and Ganju Shiba are left perplexed by a pill adorned with a skull being held out by 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada, who explains that it is a special nutritional fortification pill supplied to everyone in the Fourth Division so they can continue working even when they are tired. Though Ichigo and Ganju express doubt over this due to the skull on the pill, Hanatarō swallows it nonetheless, only for nothing to happen as he gets to his feet and decides that they should get going. When Ichigo and Ganju point out that it clearly did not do anything, Hanatarō questions if he does not look to be in great health right now, prompting Ichigo to bluntly state that he looks worse than he did before as Ganju asks Hanatarō if this is some kind of joke.
Some time later, Ichigo, Ganju, and Hanatarō emerge from the canal network exit outside the stairs leading up to Senzaikyū and realize that no one is here. As Ichigo notes that it is strange for there to not be any guards here after his battle the previous day, Ganju theorizes that the Shinigami did not think their enemy would return so soon, which Ichigo acknowledges. Ganju wonders if Uryū Ishida and Orihime Inoue are okay, and after deducing who he is referring to from his descriptions of their appearances, Ichigo assures him that they are alright because they are both a hundred times smarter than Ichigo is and would never pick a fight with an enemy they have no hope of beating. With Ganju inquiring about Sado, Ichigo observes that there is even less reason to worry about him, and when a surprised Ganju claims that they do not even know if he is still alive, Ichigo reveals that Sado is still alive because he has felt the latter's Reiatsu ever since they got here before asserting that he cannot even imagine Sado losing.
Back outside the warehouse, a Shinigami is launched high into the air and falls to the ground below alongside his defeated comrades, where he calls Sado a monster for beating them all. Grabbing the frightened Shinigami by his collar, Sado asks him where Senzaikyū is and explains that the last Shinigami he asked about Rukia Kuchiki 's location said that word before he passed out. As he trembles in fear, the Shinigami points Sado to the white tower in the distance, prompting Sado to let go of him and politely thank the Shinigami. However, as Sado begins walking away, the sneering Shinigami mocks him for turning his back on the enemy and leaps forward as he attempts to slash at Sado, only for the latter to bend his Zanpakutō 's blade mid-swing with his Brazo Derecha de Gigante hand. With the Shinigami shocked by this and begging Sado to not kill him, Sado merely instructs him to not do this again and runs off, leaving the Shinigami astonished that Sado is not going to kill him.
In 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku 's office, his lieutenant, Nanao Ise, looks out the window and informs a resting Shunsui that Sado is approaching. Bemoaning Sado arriving already, Shunsui sits up and notes that they should get going, and when Nanao inquires if he is sure that he wants to go because she can handle one Ryoka, Shunsui asserts that he has to on Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto 's orders and explains that he does not want anyone's reputation to be ruined due to Yamamoto thinking the captains cannot handle it before attempting to caress Nanao's face as he claims that he does not know what he would do if she were hurt in battle. When Nanao slaps his hand away with a closed fan and coldly rebuffs his flirting, Shunsui observes that she is in an especially lovely mood today and that this is what he loves about her, leading a flustered Nanao to demand that he go. As he complies, Shunsui assures Nanao that she does not have to worry because it is just fun and games which will be over soon.
Meanwhile, Ichigo, Ganju, and Hanatarō run up the steps to Senzaikyū while Ganju expresses frustration at how long the stairs go on for. Promising Ganju that they are almost at the top, Ichigo reaches the top of the steps, and as Ganju and Hanatarō catch their breath behind him, he notes that security seems to be lax here as well because no one is around before proclaiming that they are going all the way to the top. Suddenly, as Ichigo, Ganju, and Hanatarō resume running, the three of them stop in astonishment and fear upon feeling an incredibly intense Reiatsu pressing down on them, prompting Ichigo to wonder what is causing it while 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki grins nearby.
103. Dominion [ ]
5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori receives a shocking letter from her captain, Sousuke Aizen, while 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki confronts and intimidates Ichigo Kurosaki.
In the first Special Confinement Gaol within her division's barracks, 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori sits with bags under her eyes and looks up to see 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto approaching. As Hinamori wonders why she is here, Rangiku hands her a sealed letter and reveals that it was found in the room of Hinamori's captain, Sousuke Aizen, and is addressed to Hinamori herself, to the latter's surprise. With Hinamori recalling Aizen writing a letter while they were speaking last night, Rangiku remarks that it is a good thing her captain, Tōshirō Hitsugaya, found it because anyone else would have submitted it as evidence and prevented Hinamori from receiving it. Admitting that she does not know what it says, Rangiku tells Hinamori that she should be honored her captain's last words were for her and should read the letter with appreciation before departing.
After tearfully thanking Rangiku for this, Hinamori unties the string binding the letter and opens it, where she finds Aizen stating that her reading this means that he was unable to return before apologizing for how much grief he has caused her, as he has no words to express his gratitude. Aizen's letter details how he never spoke to her about his concerns because he did not want her to get involved, and as he expresses hope that Hinamori will forgive him for involving her now, Aizen reveals all he has discovered so far in the letter to Hinamori, whom he trusts more than anyone else, because he is likely no longer alive, leaving Hinamori astonished and sweating in shock.
Meanwhile, in the pavilion outside Senzaikyū, Ichigo Kurosaki, Ganju Shiba, and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada are left frightened and unable to move by the intense Reiatsu pressing down on them. While Ganju wonders what is causing it, Ichigo tells him and Hanatarō to run because they do not want to meet the source of this Reiatsu and need to cover some ground before they are found. With the three of them running off, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki notes that the Ryoka he had been told about is finally here and questions which one of them it is. As he runs along, Ichigo observes that something is wrong because it does not feel like they have put any distance between themselves and the enemy despite how far they have run before concluding that it feels like he constantly has a sword at his throat. When Hanatarō collapses behind them and finds himself unable to keep moving, Ganju doubles back and hoists a surprised Hanatarō over his shoulders while bemoaning that it is like looking after a baby.
Kenpachi looks over each of them as Ganju rejoins Ichigo in running, and after dismissing Ganju and Hanatarō as not being the Ryoka he is looking for, Kenpachi sees Ichigo, who experiences the sensation of Kenpachi leaning over his shoulder and inquiring if he is the one. Severely unnerved by this, Ichigo turns around and looks up to see Kenpachi crouching on a rooftop above them. As Kenpachi questions if he is just going to stare, Ichigo envisions Kenpachi appearing behind him and impaling him through the chest with his Zanpakutō. Upon realizing that this has not actually happened, a heavily sweating Ichigo clutches his chest and questions if this was killing intent, though he dismisses this being the case because killing intent alone could not produce such an effect.
Suddenly, Kenpachi appears behind Ichigo and asks him if he is Ichigo Kurosaki. When Ichigo demands to know who he is and how he knows his name, Kenpachi notes that his 3rd Seat, Ikkaku Madarame, should have told Ichigo, who recalls Ikkaku describing Kenpachi as tough and someone Ichigo may not survive facing while Kenpachi introduces himself and declares that he is here to kill Ichigo or die.
104. The Undead [ ]
This section is about the chapter. For the volume, see THE UNDEAD.
Ichigo Kurosaki begins his fight with 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki, whom he quickly discovers to be far tougher than any opponent he has faced prior.
Having been confronted by 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki, an unnerved Ichigo Kurosaki mentally identifies Kenpachi and admits that he can tell Kenpachi is a captain because of his monstrous Reiatsu. As he inquires if something is wrong, Kenpachi reiterates that he is here to kill Ichigo or die and wonders if he should begin due to Ichigo seemingly having nothing to say, prompting Ichigo to grab the handle of his Shikai, Zangetsu, only to stop upon hearing a loud noise behind him. Ichigo turns to see Ganju Shiba kneeling and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada lying on the ground completely unable to move, greatly concerning him. After assuring Ichigo that he and Hanatarō are fine and were merely knocked down by Kenpachi's Reiatsu, a sweating Ganju instructs him to keep his eyes on Kenpachi because the latter will kill Ichigo should he keep looking around.
Suddenly, 11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi pops out from behind Kenpachi's back and points out that Hanatarō is drooling, and as a stunned Ichigo turns back to face her, Yachiru leaps onto his shoulder while expressing sympathy for how scared Hanatarō must be. Startled by this, Ichigo throws Yachiru off, leading her to leap back to Kenpachi and note that Ichigo is mad at her, which Kenpachi affirms. As he draws Zangetsu, Ichigo orders Ganju to run away with Hanatarō and save Rukia Kuchiki while he takes care of Kenpachi. Though he is incredulous at Ichigo's uncertainty of how he will defeat Kenpachi, Ganju complies and runs away with Hanatarō over his shoulder. With Kenpachi and Yachiru merely staring at this, Ichigo expresses confusion at neither of them going after his friends even though their mission is to stop the Ryoka, prompting Kenpachi to remind Ichigo that he is here to kill Ichigo or die and has no interest in Ichigo's friends or Rukia, to Ichigo's relief.
In the Shishinrō within Senzaikyū, Rukia senses the intense Reiatsu outside and realizes that it must be incredibly strong if she can feel it from within the Sekkiseki building before wondering if there is a captain nearby. Recalling how she heard a deafening roar yesterday, Rukia mentally asks Ichigo if he is really here and where he is now.
Outside, Ichigo pants as he assumes a battle stance, leading Kenpachi to praise him as not bad for his strong Reiatsu despite how stiff and full of openings his guard is. When Kenpachi observes that Ichigo might be stronger than some lieutenants, which is likely why his 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame lost, Ichigo sarcastically thanks him, only for Kenpachi to conclude that Ichigo is still not his equal and decide to give him a handicap as he opens his haori before granting Ichigo the opportunity to perform the first strike by cutting wherever he likes. Astonished by this, Ichigo claims that he cannot cut someone who does not have their sword drawn and questions if Kenpachi is mocking him, but Kenpachi denies this and clarifies that it is a courtesy as he instructs Ichigo to save the admirable gesture of refraining from striking a defenseless enemy for another time. Asserting that they should take their time and enjoy this because the struggle of kill or be killed is something to be savored, to Ichigo's shock, Kenpachi details how Ichigo could cut him down with one blow by targeting his neck, stomach, or eyes.
With Kenpachi encouraging him to attack and not be a coward, Ichigo gives in and warns Kenpachi to not complain afterwards as he rushes forwards and slashes with Zangetsu. Elsewhere, Hanatarō regains consciousness while being carried by Ganju, but upon being informed by Ganju that Ichigo stayed behind to fight Kenpachi, Hanatarō begs him to go back because Ichigo has no chance of winning and will be killed. Hanatarō details how the title "Kenpachi" belongs to the one who loves to fight the most and has slain more foes than any other Shinigami, meaning that Kenpachi will never fall no matter how many times he is cut. Back at the fight, Yachiru sits against a wall with her hands on her cheeks and watches blood splatter on the ground. Having failed to even scratch Kenpachi with his attack and seeing Zangetsu resting against Kenpachi's skin, Ichigo expresses disbelief while his right hand bleeds. Disappointed at this being the best Ichigo can do, Kenpachi draws his own Zanpakutō, pushing Zangetsu aside in the process, and requests that Ichigo not die too quickly.
105. Spring, Spring, Meets The Tiger [ ]
With his friends proceeding on their mission to save Rukia Kuchiki, Ichigo Kurosaki learns why he cannot harm 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki while Yasutora Sado finds himself confronted by 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku.
Restrained by Ganju Shiba, 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada begs the former to let him go because Ichigo Kurosaki will be in trouble if he does not help. However, Ganju points out that neither of them could do much good if they went back because they were paralyzed by 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki 's Reiatsu alone and asserts that Ichigo is the only one of the three of them who has a chance of beating Kenpachi. Concluding that they have a job to do, Ganju reminds Hanatarō that Ichigo came to Soul Society in order to save Rukia Kuchiki and would save her himself if he could, but has handed it over to them and is staying behind in order to buy time for them to rescue Rukia by risking his life, meaning that he has entrusted them with the most important job of all and that they must save Rukia no matter what it takes because they will be throwing away everything that Ichigo has been fighting for if they do not keep going. With Hanatarō convinced by this, Ganju resumes running toward Senzaikyū with him and mentally tells Ichigo to not get killed before he gets back with Rukia due to him being able to at least help Ichigo get away.
Meanwhile, Ichigo stands with his Shikai, Zangetsu, pressed against Kenpachi's chest, which remains unharmed, as he observes with astonishment that he could not even scratch Kenpachi despite swinging as hard as he could before wondering why his hand is bleeding. Noting that Ichigo looks surprised, Kenpachi questions if it is really so strange that Zangetsu cannot cut his body as he begins drawing his own Zanpakutō, pushing Zangetsu away with his arm in the process. Shocked by this, Ichigo leaps several meters back and expresses disbelief at Kenpachi pushing Zangetsu back with his bare arm. Suddenly, 11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi appears in front of Ichigo and asserts that it is impossible for him to cut Kenpachi because it is almost like Zangetsu has no blade to him, to Ichigo's confusion. Kenpachi explains that two spiritual forces colliding results in the weaker of the two absorbing the impact, which means that the sword Ichigo has created by honing his Reiatsu to its limits is weaker than the Reiatsu leaking out of Kenpachi unconsciously. With Ichigo stunned by this, Kenpachi expresses disappointment at having waited all night for someone like him because this will not even make for a good anecdote and unsheathes his Zanpakutō, which he notes Ichigo can at least take the rust off of.
Elsewhere, near the Eighth Division barracks, Yasutora Sado blasts a hole in a wall with an energy blast from his Fullbring, Brazo Derecha de Gigante, instantly incapacitating multiple Shinigami on the other side in the process. As he looks at his steaming hand, Sado notes that he can now fire five or more shots without exhausting himself after having two shots per day as his limit when he first gained this power and acknowledges that he will have to thank Yoruichi Shihōin for training him. Stepping through the hole in the wall and running into the compound, Sado wonders if his friends are safe and hopes that none of them have been hurt, only to find himself confronted by 8th Division 3rd Seat Tatsufusa Enjōji, who orders him to halt and introduces himself before declaring that this road is a dead end for Sado with him here.
After drawing his Zanpakutō, Tatsufusa initiates Hōzan Kenbu by rapidly and repeatedly slashing in all directions around his body. As they watch this in amazement, two nearby Shinigami identify the technique and assume that Sado is standing still out of terror. However, with Tatsufusa goading Sado to make a move and not be timid just because his swordplay has never been beaten, Sado simply punches him in the face with his Brazo Derecha de Gigante fist, sending Tatsufusa flying back and crashing into a barricade that he flips over. While Sado apologizes and observes that Tatsufusa's defense was full of holes, the two Shinigami are left astonished by Tatsufusa being knocked out. Suddenly, 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku praises Sado's performance, and as the latter looks up in astonishment to see flower petals falling from above, Shunsui lands in front of him before introducing himself and politely greeting Sado.
106. Cause For Confront [ ]
Though 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku quickly proves to be much stronger than any other Shinigami he has encountered in the Seireitei and his repeated attacks begin to take their toll, Yasutora Sado refuses to stop fighting.
Walking toward 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku, Yasutora Sado repeats his identification, and as Shunsui affirms this while politely greeting Sado, the flower petals falling around him grow denser in number, prompting Shunsui to ask his lieutenant, Nanao Ise, to stop throwing petals as she stands on the balcony above him with a large basket of petals in her hands. With Shunsui continuing to request this in a flirtatious manner, Nanao simply dumps the rest of the petals on top of Shunsui, who is buried underneath them, to Sado's confusion. Sado apologizes for not having time for Shunsui's comedy routine and states that he is just passing through, and when a disappointed Shunsui inquires if he cannot play a while longer because no one is any fun nowadays, Sado asserts that he is in a hurry and pleads with Shunsui to step aside because he seems like a nice guy and Sado does not want this to end in a fight. As he admits that he does not want to fight either, Shunsui notes that he cannot let Sado pass and suggests that he retreat, but Sado firmly denies being able to do this, prompting Shunsui to observe that it cannot be helped before sitting down, pulling out a jug of sake and two cups, and offering to drink with Sado like two old friends instead.
While Sado is left stunned by this, Shunsui explains that he can just stay here if he does not want to retreat because it will all be over soon anyway. When Shunsui reveals that the others are on the move now and this unpleasantness will be finished soon as a result, Sado picks up on his mention of others and deduces that his friends are being attacked by the other captains, which leads Shunsui to realize that he may have said too much. Asserting that this changes things, Sado asks Shunsui to move immediately, and when the latter inquires what will happen if he declines as he drinks some of the sake, Sado proclaims that he will move Shunsui before firing an energy blast at him with his Fullbring, Brazo Derecha de Gigante. However, with the blast hurtling toward him, Shunsui merely swipes his free hand through it, deflecting the energy blast before it can reach him, to Sado's astonishment, and notes that things are getting complicated.
Sado proceeds to fire three more energy blasts, all of which Shunsui dodges while declaring them missed as they shake the ground on impact, and begins panting and sweating as he fires another, which Shunsui nonchalantly dodges by leaning to the side before declaring it missed as well while it blows up a wall behind him. As he wonders how Shunsui is evading them, Sado mentally details how Shunsui deflected his first shot with one hand and has evaded every subsequent shot while observing that they are not even grazing Shunsui despite being powerful. Recalling 8th Division 3rd Seat Tatsufusa Enjōji being only two ranks below captain, Sado questions if two ranks can really make that much of a difference and if captains are really this powerful.
While leaning against a nearby wall, Shunsui suggests that Sado give up because he should understand by now that, despite how hard and fast his considerably destructive attacks are for a Human, they cannot hit Shunsui and never will, which means that Sado should stop fighting and go home. A smiling Sado simply thanks him for the advice and declares that he cannot do this before firing another blast despite Shunsui cautioning him against it. Evading this as well, Shunsui moves behind Sado and details how there are two kinds of moves - those that cannot be performed at all once one's limit is reached, and those that can be performed beyond one's limit at the cost of one's life force, the latter category of which he concludes Sado's move is in as he presses two fingers against Sado's back and uses Tsukiyubi, sending him hurtling forward and crashing to the ground.
After pointing out that Sado is clearly way beyond his limit, Shunsui advises him to leave because he will die if he keeps this up, only for Sado to begin to get to his feet once more. As he sighs at this, Shunsui inquires why Sado insists on fighting and what purpose he came here to fulfill, prompting Sado to state that his purpose is to save Rukia Kuchiki. Confused by this, Shunsui observes that Sado could only have a thin friendship with Rukia at best after having known her for a few months with her going missing in the Human World in the spring, and Sado affirms Shunsui's conclusion that this is not something he would risk his life for before explaining that Ichigo Kurosaki wants to save her and is putting his own life on the line to do so, which is all the reason Sado needs to do the same. Shunsui acknowledges Sado's strong resolve and decides that it would be disrespectful to attempt to talk him out of this as he draws his twin Zanpakutō and concludes that he will have to kill Sado, who runs toward him and charges up one last energy blast while recalling his history with Ichigo.
107. Heat In Trust [ ]
Recalling his past with Ichigo Kurosaki, Yasutora Sado prepares to deliver one last blow in defense of what Ichigo wants to protect.
As he runs toward 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku and charges up one last energy blast with his Fullbring, Brazo Derecha de Gigante, while mentally promising Ichigo Kurosaki that he will beat Shunsui even if it costs him his life before vowing to swear once more what they swore before should he survive.
In the past, a slightly battered Sado lies on a riverbank in Karakura Town and brushes his fingers against the coin attached to his necklace while Ichigo demands to know what that was about. When Sado merely corrects his usage of "Chad", an exasperated Ichigo points out how Sado would have been killed had he not shown up and questions why Sado does not defend himself despite how strong he is. Sitting up, Sado explains that he promised his abuelo to never use his fists for his own sake, and when Ichigo expresses confusion at what abuelo means, Sado clarifies that it means grandfather and identifies his abuelo as Oscar Joaquín de la Rosa, prompting Ichigo to wonder how many grandfathers Sado is referring to. Sado elaborates that Oscar was a Mexican and that he had lived in Mexico prior to moving to Karakura Town, but Ichigo reminds him that he said he was from Okinawa when they first met last month, which Sado is surprised by. With Ichigo declaring that Sado only talks nonsense and that he will not bail Sado out next time, Sado merely chuckles and holds his coin.
Upon noticing this, Ichigo notes that Sado always wears his coin and inquires if it is something important, which Sado affirms before describing it as being more important than his own life. Slightly stunned by this, Ichigo sits on the grass next to Sado and observes that it looks like it is from another country, with Sado informing him that it is from Mexico when he asks. When Sado stands up while stating that they should go because there is no bigger waste of time than two guys talking beside a river, Ichigo notices a cell phone, which has been maintaining a call for almost twenty-two minutes, hanging from the back of his pants and questions whose it is, leading Sado to guess that it belongs to one of the guys whom Ichigo beat up before deciding to give it back, only for Ichigo to kick it away, breaking it in half in the process, to Sado's surprise. Listening on the other end of the line as he sits on a set of stairs, around his defeated men, Yokochini stares at his own phone as it emits a dial tone.
The next day, Sado walks down the street and mentally notes that he had not lied about his past because he was born in Okinawa and moved to Mexico when he was eight due to his parents dying when he was young and him not having any other relatives. As he recalls how he used to be a bully who used his fists to beat down anyone he did not like until Oscar showed him the error of his ways and taught him how to be good, Sado is attacked from behind by three of Yokochini's men wielding tasers. Soon afterward, Sado is tied to a chair with a thick cable and beaten up by Yokochini's men underneath the Onose river bridge in Nishi-Toriya district two while Yokochini watches from a couch and smokes a cigarette. Though Sado mentally observes that he does not think he can break through the cable binding him, when Yokochini gloats about his situation and asks him if the pain makes him want to wet himself, Sado questions if people wet themselves from pain and apologizes for not feeling the urge.
Angered by this, Yokochini stands up and decides to take a different approach as he yanks Sado's coin off his neck and recounts Sado's description of it as a souvenir from Mexico that is more important than his own life. Concluding that Sado will die if he loses this coin, Yokochini holds a pair of pliers up to the coin and prepares to cut it up in front of Sado, only for Ichigo to suddenly kick him in the face, sending Yokochini skidding away and falling into the nearby river. When his shocked and concerned men call out to him, Yokochini berates them for calling him "Yokochin" before having his face stomped on by Ichigo, who swipes Sado's coin from his hand while sarcastically thanking him for being a good sport. As they identify Ichigo, who begins looking through Yokochini's pockets, Yokochini's men demand that he stop ignoring them and rifling through Yokochini's pockets. Upon finding Yokochini's cell phone, Ichigo contacts emergency services and requests an ambulance be sent to his location.
Though Yokochini's men assume that he is calling an ambulance for Sado, who is stunned to see him, Ichigo turns around and counts up the five of Yokochini's men before concluding that this is how ambulances will need to be sent. Enraged by this, Yokochini's men rush toward Ichigo, who tosses away the cell phone and begins fighting them. After beating up all of Yokochini's men, Ichigo lies on his back in front of Sado and proposes that they fight for each other and for what each other wants to protect with their life so he does not have to violate his rule of not using his fists for himself, which Sado agrees to.
In the present, Sado recalls this promise and mentally proclaims that this is why he cannot lose as he prepares to unleash his energy blast onto Shunsui, only for Shunsui to cut him down in a single horizontal slash to the chest and apologize while a large quantity of blood spurts from Sado's wound.
Bleach, Volume 13
108. Time For Scare [ ]
Having defeated Yasutora Sado, 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku learns of 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen 's murder while Ichigo Kurosaki finds his resolve in his own fight against 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki.
As she stands atop a damaged wall in the Eighth Division barracks and looks into the compound below, Lieutenant Nanao Ise notices a Riteitai appear behind her and questions why the message he was sent to convey was not simply carried to her by a Jigokuchō. When the Riteitai reveals that his message has been signed by both Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto and 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya, a surprised Nanao wonders if it is top-secret due to warranting a joint signature.
Down on the ground, 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku stands over a defeated Yasutora Sado as the latter lies in the middle of a long streak of his own blood. Praising Sado for fighting so well on top of being impressive enough to set foot in the Seireitei, Shunsui looks over the damage left by Sado's last attack and admits that he is glad it missed him. Upon being approached and called out to by a frantic Nanao, Shunsui questions why she is so out of breath and recalls that a Riteitai was just here, only to be shocked when Nanao informs him that 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen is dead. Nanao elaborates that Aizen's Saketsu and Hakusui were removed and his heart was destroyed by a Zanpakutō, making it murder by an unknown killer, before affirming that she believes the information is accurate due to being a top-secret message signed by Yamamoto and Hitsugaya.
With Shunsui deciding that they should go pay their respects to Aizen, Nanao notices that Sado is still alive and offers to finish him off as her right hand begins glowing with Kidō, but Shunsui gently grabs her wrist and declines because this is not a job suitable for a young lady. Though Nanao protests that Sado's allies must have killed Aizen, Shunsui questions the likelihood of this, and as Nanao expresses confusion, Shunsui clarifies that they do not know for certain yet before ordering Nanao to have the Fourth Division secure Sado due to there not being a need to summarily execute him. After observing that Sado being responsible is only more reason to not kill him, which prompts Nanao to apologize for her impertinence as she prepares to carry out his order, Shunsui sighs and looks up at the sky while noting that things are getting complicated.
Meanwhile, in the Senzaikyū compound, Ichigo Kurosaki rounds a corner between two columns and is confronted by 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki, whose subsequent downward strike he barely manages to block. As Kenpachi's blade pushes down his Shikai, Zangetsu, and inches closer toward him, a frightened Ichigo pushes it aside and leaps back, leaving Kenpachi to slam his Zanpakutō into the ground, rupturing it, before inquiring if running away is all Ichigo can do as he resumes his pursuit. While running away, Ichigo attempts to calm down and remind himself that there is no reason he cannot cut Kenpachi, only to recall his prior failure to even scratch Kenpachi when offered a chance to perform the first strike, causing his bleeding right hand gripping Zangetsu to shake as he grips it and chastises himself for being a coward. Suddenly, Kenpachi bursts through the wall in front of Ichigo and chastises him for running away because he does not like chasing rabbits.
Looking on from above, 11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi watches the resumed fight silently. Shortly afterward, having managed to lose Kenpachi again, a fatigued Ichigo embeds Zangetsu into the ground and leans on it as he wonders if his inability to cut Kenpachi means the latter really is that much more powerful than he is. However, Ichigo mentally asserts that there is no reason he should not be able to cut Kenpachi and theorizes that the problem lies in him being afraid of Kenpachi's Reiatsu, meaning that he should be able to cut Kenpachi if he calms down and intensifies his own Reiatsu. After repeatedly telling himself to calm down and reiterating Zangetsu 's speech about dying if he hesitates or shows fear, Ichigo rushes out into the corridor and proclaims that he is ready, only to stop in astonishment upon sensing Sado's Reiatsu vanish.
A stunned Ichigo wonders if Sado lost or was killed, but as he refuses to believe this, Ichigo senses a small amount of Reiatsu from Sado and realizes that he is still alive, prompting him to admonish himself for being afraid because all his allies will die if he loses, which means he cannot afford to be scared. Upon being confronted by Ichigo a moment later, Kenpachi, who had been sitting against a wall, stands up as he inquires if Ichigo is prepared to die or has given up, prompting Ichigo to deny either being true before dashing forward. As he mentally promises Sado that he will come for him after taking care of Kenpachi, Ichigo slashes past Kenpachi's Zanpakutō, resulting in a surprised Kenpachi being cut across the center of his chest. Apologizing, Ichigo declares that he is not ready to die just yet because doing so will cause him to lose everything which he has been fighting for.
109. 花を踏まぬ虎のように [ ]
While 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen and 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura confirm 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen 's death with their own eyes, Ichigo Kurosaki makes a crucial error in his fight against 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki.
Having succeeded in cutting 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki across the center of his chest with his Shikai, Zangetsu, Ichigo Kurosaki takes this as proof that he can defeat Kenpachi, who merely grins and asserts that he knew Ichigo could do it as he exerts his Reiatsu. With Ichigo intimidated by this, Kenpachi instructs him to stay alert and not relax before preparing to resume the fight. As she watches this from above, a smiling 11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi notes that Kenpachi looks happy while he and Ichigo clash fiercely below.
Meanwhile, in the Sōgō Kyūgo Tsumesho within the Fourth Division barracks, 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen and 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura stand behind 4th Division Captain Retsu Unohana, who kneels in front of a bed containing the corpse of 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen. With 4th Division Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu standing nearby, Tōsen observes that Aizen really is dead, prompting Unohana to elaborate that he was no longer breathing by the time that he was taken down from the East Holy Wall before concluding that all they know at the moment is that he is dead even though they are looking into other possibilities like a Gigai being used as a disguise. Stating that the leadership of the Fifth Division will be decided in a captains meeting in the chamber of the Central 46 after the current conflict is over, Unohana requests that Tōsen and Komamura return to their divisions and promises to join them in the field soon as she stands up with her Zanpakutō in hand.
After exiting the Fourth Division barracks, Tōsen and Komamura are met by their lieutenants, Shūhei Hisagi and Tetsuzaemon Iba. As he confirms to Hisagi that Aizen is dead, Tōsen asserts that resolving this problem is the quickest path to the truth, and when a surprised Hisagi realizes what he is saying, Tōsen affirms that he is joining the battle despite his aversion to conflict because there does not seem to be an alternative before expressing his dislike of battles, due to his belief that there would be no battles and many tragedies could be avoided if people did not allow themselves to be deceived by ugly emotions.
Back in the Senzaikyū complex, Ichigo and Kenpachi drag their Zanpakutō through a nearby building and the ground, respectively, before clashing in an explosion of force. With Ichigo unable to push past his block despite attacking from a better angle, a grinning Kenpachi grabs Zangetsu by the blade and twists it around, pulling Ichigo off his feet and into the air, as he thrusts his Zanpakutō forward. After removing his right hand from the handle of Zangetsu to twist his body in midair, Ichigo narrowly evades Kenpachi's Zanpakutō, resulting in it piercing the collar of his shihakushō, and kicks Kenpachi's hand off Zangetsu, freeing himself. Suddenly, as Ichigo lands on the ground, he sees Kenpachi has vanished from the area in front of him and barely manages to block Kenpachi's subsequent slash from behind by holding Zangetsu above his head upon hearing the bells in Kenpachi's hair chime.
Praising Ichigo's reactions while the latter leaps back, Kenpachi notes that he is hearing the bells by concentrating more and explains how he puts on the bells and the eyepatch to make his fights more interesting before concluding that they are wasted if Ichigo does not exploit them. However, when Ichigo assumes that Kenpachi is mocking him because he has not released his Zanpakutō and warns him to watch out because Zangetsu can cut him now, Kenpachi claims that his Zanpakutō is actually already released and was never sealed because it has no name. Surprised by this, Ichigo presumes that this simply means Kenpachi's Zanpakutō will not get any stronger and prepares to resume the fight, but Kenpachi swiftly moves forward and presses the tip of his Zanpakutō up against the broad side of Zangetsu as Ichigo instinctively blocks with it while picking up on Ichigo's confident attitude.
Kenpachi berates Ichigo for thinking he could win and clarifies that his Zanpakutō cannot be sealed because his Reiryoku cannot be contained due to its vast size, meaning that he has to restrain himself when he fights. As he declares that their fight would be over if he did not do this, Kenpachi stabs his Zanpakutō right through Zangetsu and into Ichigo's chest, cracking the blade in the process. Reminding Ichigo that he was told to keep his Reiatsu sharp and proclaiming that only a fool would relax like this, Kenpachi pulls his Zanpakutō out of Ichigo and expresses disappointment at such a conclusion to their fight as Ichigo falls to his knees while blood falls around them.
110. Dark Side of Universe [ ]
Badly wounded by 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki, Ichigo Kurosaki is drawn into his inner world by Zangetsu, where he meets the manifestation of his Hollow powers for the first time.
11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki withdraws his bloody Zanpakutō from Ichigo Kurosaki 's chest as the latter's Shikai, Zangetsu, breaks in two due to having been pierced by his blade. Looking down at Ichigo as the latter collapses, Kenpachi notes that it has been a while since he fought someone who could cut him and hear the bells, but merely concludes that this is it and expresses his disappointment as he begins to walk away. As he lies on the ground and pants heavily, Ichigo coughs up blood and mentally refuses to die here while ordering his body to stop bleeding and let him fight again because he has to save Rukia Kuchiki. However, with Kenpachi dragging his Zanpakutō through the ground and swinging it onto his shoulder, time suddenly comes to a halt as Zangetsu appears next to Kenpachi.
Approaching a stunned Ichigo, Zangetsu inquires if he wishes to fight, win, or live. After staring in silence for a few seconds, Ichigo grips the remainder of Zangetsu by the handle and states that he wants to win. When Zangetsu claims that he cannot hear him, Ichigo proclaims that he wants to win because fighting and survival for their own sake are meaningless, prompting Zangetsu to assert that he will take Ichigo there as his cloak flares out around him and engulfs Ichigo. With the darkness enveloping him, Ichigo finds himself standing on the side of a skyscraper in his inner world and recalls falling down the last time he was here, prompting him to frantically lie against one of the windows and clutch the sides. Upon being asked by Zangetsu what he is doing, Ichigo asserts that he does not want to fall again, only for Zangetsu to assure him that there is no chance of this happening because this occurred when his inner world lost its balance due to him becoming a Hollow before pointing out how the world remains stable even after Ichigo's fierce fight with Kenpachi. Though a confused Ichigo questions if this means that the sideways nature of his inner world is normal, Zangetsu merely comments on him becoming stronger, leading Ichigo to express exasperation at being ignored.
Zangetsu tosses Ichigo a sword, and as a shocked Ichigo grabs it and berates him for throwing an unsheathed sword, Zangetsu instructs him to hold onto it because it is his sword. With a perplexed Ichigo noting that this is not his Shikai, Zangetsu details how it is an Asauchi, a nameless Zanpakutō used by Shinigami who are not worthy of the Gotei 13. When Ichigo reminds him that his Zanpakutō's name is Zangetsu, Zangetsu brings out Zangetsu and inquires if Ichigo is referring to the blade which Kenpachi broke earlier before claiming that he cannot give it to Ichigo as he throws it off the side of the skyscraper. However, as Ichigo attempts to leap after it, Hollow Ichigo tells him to move aside and hurtles past Ichigo as he dashes over to Zangetsu. With Ichigo noting that he is wearing a white shihakushō, Hollow Ichigo grabs Zangetsu in midair and somersaults as he crashes into the ground, and when a stunned Ichigo wonders what he is, Hollow Ichigo turns to face him and questions what he is talking about while referring to Ichigo as his " partner ". Appearing next to Hollow Ichigo, Zangetsu explains that he wants to see if Ichigo is worthy of wielding him by having him fight and take Zangetsu back from himself.
111. Black & White [ ]
Realizing the flawed logic of his treatment of Zangetsu, Ichigo Kurosaki opens his heart to the power of his Zanpakutō and prepares to resume his battle with 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki.
Standing in Ichigo Kurosaki 's inner world alongside Hollow Ichigo before Ichigo himself, Zangetsu orders Ichigo to prove he is worthy of wielding his Shikai, Zangetsu, by taking it with his own hands from his own hands. As he mockingly encourages Ichigo to take it if he can, Hollow Ichigo leaps toward Ichigo and attacks with Zangetsu, prompting Ichigo to block with the Asauchi in his hands. With Ichigo struggling against the blow and realizing that he cannot block it completely, Hollow Ichigo slashes Zangetsu forward, sending Ichigo skidding back, before exerting his Reiatsu, leaving Ichigo stunned and intimidated. Awed by the Reiatsu of Zangetsu burning up the air like this, Ichigo envisions his Asauchi as a stick compared to it and wonders how he is supposed to win with it. As he inquires what is wrong, Hollow Ichigo begins spinning Zangetsu around by the cloth wrapped around its hilt and promises to kill Ichigo if he is not careful.
With Ichigo surprised by this maneuver, Hollow Ichigo initiates Deadly Darts and throws Zangetsu at Ichigo, who narrowly dodges as it crashes into the wall behind him. While Hollow Ichigo expresses annoyance at having missed and resumes spinning Zangetsu above his head after pulling it back, Ichigo is shocked by the concept of throwing Zangetsu and retrieving it with the hilt cloth, which he admits is a move that he would have never come up with. Hollow Ichigo declares that Ichigo is pathetic and questions how he got so bloody despite holding such a mighty sword before inquiring if one can become friends with someone just by asking for their name. As Ichigo expresses confusion at this, Hollow Ichigo asserts that this is what he has done because he believes that simply calling out Zangetsu's name is all there is to it and focuses on himself instead of bringing out Zangetsu's power or understanding him. Proclaiming that Zangetsu is capable of so much more and would have become much stronger had Ichigo opened his heart, Hollow Ichigo claims that Ichigo could not do it due to not caring about his Zanpakutō at all and thinking he only has to train himself.
While Zangetsu watches from afar atop a pole, Hollow Ichigo resumes Deadly Darts and throws Zangetsu at Ichigo, who evades it once more. Hollow Ichigo pulls back Zangetsu and throws it again, ripping through the ground in the process, and as he leaps to the side to avoid it, Ichigo mentally admits that Hollow Ichigo is right about him not trying to get to know Zangetsu and observes that Zanpakutō have names and are alive rather than being soulless tools before recalling his elated response to 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki revealing that his Zanpakutō has no name. Criticizing himself for being glad about this because he is no better than Kenpachi for only knowing his Zanpakutō's name and nothing more, Ichigo asserts that he does want to know more. As he brings Zangetsu back to his hand, Hollow Ichigo decides to finish this and promises to show Ichigo what it means to make the most of Zangetsu before proclaiming that he will never hold Zangetsu again. With Hollow Ichigo rushing toward him, Ichigo mentally implores Zangetsu to tell Ichigo about himself little by little so Ichigo can fight with him once again, and as Hollow Ichigo attacks, he is stunned to discover that he and Ichigo have swapped weapons as Ichigo blocks the strike of his Asauchi with Zangetsu. Realizing that Zangetsu is giving him another chance, a surprised Ichigo thanks him and steels his resolve.
Back in the real world, Kenpachi is alerted by a surge of Reiatsu behind him and turns around to see Ichigo standing with a reformed Zangetsu held over his shoulder.
112. The Undead 2[Rise & Craze] [ ]
Ichigo Kurosaki resumes his fight with 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki on much more even footing, but quickly discovers that Kenpachi is far from deterred by his increase in power.
In Ichigo Kurosaki 's inner world, Hollow Ichigo notes that Ichigo is gone as the severed blade of the Asauchi he is holding falls on the ground, and when Hollow Ichigo inquires if this is what he wanted, Zangetsu confirms this as he apologizes for troubling Hollow Ichigo, who brushes this off as necessary because they need Ichigo to win due to him being the king of their world. Promising to help out any way he can, Hollow Ichigo decides to go home and begins dissipating into Zangetsu as he instructs the latter to raise Ichigo well due to his power eventually belonging to Hollow Ichigo. With Hollow Ichigo gone, Zangetsu mentally tells Ichigo that he hates rain and details how it grows cloudy and rains when Ichigo is upset and sad, which he cannot stand, before wondering if Ichigo can grasp the terror of being rained on in this lonely world. After promising to give Ichigo everything he has in order to hold back the rain, Zangetsu vows to not let any rain fall on this world if Ichigo places his trust in him and assures Ichigo that he is not fighting alone.
Meanwhile, in the real world, Ichigo stands before 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki while engulfed in Reiatsu, and as a stunned Kenpachi observes that Ichigo's Hakudō is blazing after being practically gone prior, his lieutenant, Yachiru Kusajishi, watches silently from above. As Kenpachi realizes that Ichigo's chest wound has stopped bleeding, Ichigo leaps toward him and slashes Zangetsu through Kenpachi's left shoulder before the latter can react, and when Kenpachi attempts to bring his Zanpakutō up in order to attack, Ichigo intercepts it by swinging Zangetsu upward into the blade, leading a shocked Kenpachi to wonder if he is being overpowered as he prepares to grip his Zanpakutō's handle with his other hand. Pushing Zangetsu upward, Ichigo slashes across the wound on Kenpachi's chest and through Kenpachi's other shoulder, sending him skidding back along the ground and forcing him to embed his Zanpakutō into the wall to stop himself.
However, when Ichigo apologizes and states that he needs to make this quick because he does not have much time, a grinning Kenpachi declares that this will not do because the fight is just getting good before leaping toward Ichigo and proclaiming that they should make it last as long as they can. With a surprised Ichigo pointing Zangetsu at him, Kenpachi allows the tip of the blade to slash through the bridge of his nose and across his left cheek underneath his eye so he can get close and jab his Zanpakutō at Ichigo, who is shocked by his move. Having had his right cheek cut by Kenpachi's Zanpakutō, Ichigo leaps back, prompting a laughing Kenpachi to rush toward him and express his interest in how Ichigo revived himself and suddenly got stronger. Though he admits that there is a lot which he wants to know, Kenpachi claims that none of it matters now because they should just enjoy the fight. As the two of them continues to clash, Ichigo notes that Kenpachi is not going down despite how much damage he is taking and demands to know what is wrong with Kenpachi while questioning if the latter is not afraid of being cut or killed, only for Kenpachi to assert that something is wrong with Ichigo if he does not love battle despite being so strong before instructing Ichigo to revel in the death and pain as the rewards of battle.
Meanwhile, 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame sits solemnly outside the Fourth Division barracks on the veranda, and when 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa inquires if he can feel something while poking his head out of a nearby door, Ikkaku turns around to see that his hair has been permed into an afro by the firework explosion he was caught in, leaving him laughing hysterically while an irritated Yumichika puts on a wig modeled after his usual hair. After calming down, Ikkaku clarifies that he was just observing how Kenpachi is really enjoying himself. Upon being asked by Yumichika if Kenpachi's opponent is incredibly strong and if Kenpachi himself is under pressure, Ikkaku confirms this and notes that Ichigo is like a different person from when they fought. However, when Yumichika begins to worry about the possibility of Kenpachi losing, Ikkaku denies this being possible because they joined the Eleventh Division due to believing in him before reminding Yumichika that Kenpachi still has " that ".
Back at the Senzaikyū compound, a panting Kenpachi stares up at the sky and proclaims that this is superb as he praises Ichigo as being definitely stronger than he is despite how close they are in strength. With Ichigo questioning why he is so confident, Kenpachi wonders how long it has been since he felt such joy and removes his eyepatch, revealing an intact right eye, before proclaiming that he can finally fight all-out against Ichigo.
113. The Undead 3[Closing Frantica] [ ]
With 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki having removed his Reiryoku -suppressing eyepatch in order to fight at full strength, he and Ichigo Kurosaki conclude their battle.
As she watches her captain, Kenpachi Zaraki, fight Ichigo Kurosaki in the Senzaikyū compound while crouching atop one of the nearby buildings, 11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi is approached by a Riteitai, who announces that he has an urgent message for her. However, Yachiru merely tells him to come back later, and when the Riteitai insists on delivering the message right now because he was ordered to deliver it immediately and it was signed by Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto and 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya, an angered Yachiru demands that he not interrupt her while Kenpachi is fighting as she turns around and exerts a cat-shaped aura of Reiatsu, intimidating the Riteitai.
On the ground below, Kenpachi stands with his eyepatch removed as his Reiatsu blasts upward from him in a column wreathed in a helix. Bracing himself with his Shikai, Zangetsu, held in front of him, a stunned Ichigo observes that Kenpachi's Reiatsu actually increased when he removed his eyepatch and nervously accuses him of cheating by hiding something in his eye, only for Kenpachi to reveal that he does not have anything special in his eye and simply had the Shinigami Research and Development Institute make an eyepatch for him that devours Reiryoku before turning the eyepatch around to reveal it has five small mouths and eyes on the inside, unnerving Ichigo. While concluding that he can now use the Reiryoku which the eyepatch was suppressing to kill Ichigo, Kenpachi casually flicks his Zanpakutō diagonally across the base of the building next to him, resulting in it being completely cut through and collapsing in on itself.
Ichigo closes his eyes as Zangetsu manifests behind him and inquires if Ichigo can hear the sound of Kenpachi's Zanpakutō screaming, and as Ichigo affirms this, Zangetsu explains that Kenpachi cannot hear it and how those who fight together while not trusting each other have their strength diminished. As he asserts that those who only trust in their own strength cannot comprehend this, Zangetsu asks Ichigo if the latter can trust him, prompting Ichigo to confirm this before promising that Zangetsu can use all of his strength however he wants while lending Ichigo his own strength in return. With Zangetsu agreeing to this and gripping the handle of Zangetsu as well, Ichigo's Reiatsu surges in volume and intensity, which leads Kenpachi to praise his power increase. However, when Ichigo details how this resulted from him borrowing Zangetsu's power because they are fighting as a team and declares that he is not losing to someone who fights by themselves, Kenpachi decries the idea of fighting alongside one's Zanpakutō as a team due to his belief that a Zanpakutō is a weapon, meaning that one who teams up with their Zanpakutō is a loser who can no longer fight on their own.
Declaring that this is unworthy for warriors like them, Kenpachi exerts his Reiatsu in a skull-shaped aura while Zangetsu tells Ichigo that they only have one shot because he cannot stop Ichigo's bleeding for much longer, prompting Ichigo to exert his own Reiatsu in a Hollow mask-like aura. Ichigo and Kenpachi rush toward each other and clash in an explosion of force that slices apart the surrounding buildings. With the dust clearing to reveal Ichigo with Zangetsu embedded in Kenpachi's right shoulder and Kenpachi with his Zanpakutō impaling Ichigo through his abdomen while surrounded by a ring of blood, Ichigo apologizes to his friends and collapses to the side, causing Kenpachi's Zanpakutō to rip out of the side of his torso as blood spurts onto the ground. Despite this, as blood spurts from his own wound due to Zangetsu being removed from it by Ichigo's collapse, a grinning Kenpachi questions what Ichigo has to be sorry for because he won before collapsing alongside Ichigo as the blade of his own Zanpakutō snaps in two.
114. 崩れゆく世界のすべてについて [ ]
11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi brings her captain, Kenpachi Zaraki, to safety and recalls her past with him while Ganju Shiba and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada prepare to enter Senzaikyū.
With a barely conscious Ichigo Kurosaki and her unconscious captain, Kenpachi Zaraki, lying next to each other while bleeding heavily from their wounds, 11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi approaches them before bowing as she thanks Ichigo for being the first opponent in a long time to make Kenpachi happy while fighting him. As she hoists Kenpachi over her shoulders, Yachiru requests that Ichigo survive and come back to fight Kenpachi again as she repeatedly springs off the sides of two parallel buildings and heads toward the top of one of them, leaving Ichigo to lose consciousness as well.
In the past, a young Kenpachi sits on a rock in the middle of a clearing filled with dead Souls and is approached by a toddler Yachiru, who smiles as she touches the bloody blade of his Zanpakutō. Though Kenpachi admonishes her for touching a weapon that kills people and could kill her too, Yachiru merely smiles wider as she holds up her bloodied hand, and when Kenpachi asks her for her name, Yachiru does not respond, prompting Kenpachi to realize she does not have one as he admits that he does not either.
In the present, Kenpachi opens his eyes to find Yachiru standing over him as the latter celebrates him being awake and reveals that she called 4th Division Captain Retsu Unohana to come tend to his injuries. When Kenpachi inquires about Ichigo's condition, Yachiru assures him that Ichigo is probably alive, only to be surprised when Kenpachi claims that he needs to pay Ichigo back for beating him. Asserting that Kenpachi did not lose despite his injuries because Ichigo was being aided by Zangetsu and the battle was thus two against one, an irritated Yachiru slaps Kenpachi for chuckling at this. As he muses on the idea of fighting with the help of one's Zanpakutō, Kenpachi asks Yachiru if she remembers the day that he decided her name, which Yachiru affirms while claiming to even remember the number of clouds in the sky that day, and confirms that he remembers the day as well before picking up his broken Zanpakutō with his right hand, causing his shoulder wound to spurt blood.
With Yachiru expressing confusion, Kenpachi states that he has not thought about the pain of not having a name in a long time and expresses sorrow over how he used to not be referred to with a name unlike those around him. Recalling how he named Yachiru after the only person he ever admired and named himself Kenpachi after the title of the strongest Shinigami, Kenpachi holds up his Zanpakutō and notes that he kept it waiting a long time before asking it to tell him its name, only grin sardonically when he does not receive a response. As he holds his broken Zanpakutō over his face, Kenpachi declares that he wants to be stronger because he has found someone to fight, and as he observes that he has not felt this way in a long time, Kenpachi loudly shouts his desire to become stronger.
While watching this, Yachiru recounts how she had neither a name nor parents as a baby in Kusajishi, the 79th district of the Rukongai, and only knew the color of blood red because the people around her were more beast than human and could have easily stomped her to death before Kenpachi came from Zaraki, the 80th district of the Rukongai, and hacked apart her blood-soaked world to give her a name. After concluding that she would not be here now if it were not for Kenpachi, Yachiru assures him that he can do it and promises to get stronger alongside him because she knows he is the strongest one of all and he has been everything to her since that day. However, when she does not receive a response from Kenpachi, Yachiru repeatedly calls out to him in concern.
Elsewhere, Ganju Shiba and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada stand atop a roof near Senzaikyū, and when Hanatarō wonders if Ichigo is okay due to the noise stopping, Ganju asserts that they need to believe that he is because they have come this far and cannot be distracted now before pulling out a grappling hook and spinning it over his head while proclaiming that they are going to jump across, which Hanatarō affirms he is ready for. Back at the site of the battle, Yoruichi Shihōin approaches an unconscious Ichigo.
115. Remnant [ ]
Upon successfully entering Rukia Kuchiki 's cell in Senzaikyū, Ganju Shiba and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada make a shocking discovery.
In the Shishinrō within Senzaikyū, Rukia Kuchiki realizes that the sounds outside have vanished alongside the two Reiatsu she felt earlier and notes that she cannot tell which combatant died due to the Sekkiseki walls around her blocking and scattering Reiatsu. Questioning why blood has been shed for her and if she is really worth it, Rukia asks Kaien Shiba what he would say.
Outside, Yoruichi Shihōin stands over an unconscious Ichigo Kurosaki and apologizes for being late. After observing that Ichigo's injuries were to be expected due to him fighting 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki and that he did well to fight the latter to a draw, Yoruichi promises to not let him die and prepares to transport him elsewhere.
Meanwhile, on the walkway connected to the bridge outside Senzaikyū, one of the guards expresses relief at the intense Reiatsu finally dying down and notes that the fight demolished the eastern half of the compound as he wonders if the cells inside were damaged in the process. When the other guard teases him as being pathetic for being shaken by the Reiatsu all the way over here, the first guard points out that he is also shaking and is pathetic as well. Suddenly, as he demands to know why he is considered pathetic, the second guard has a few drops of Shinten poured on his forehead by 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada, causing him to collapse, and as the first guard sees Hanatarō retreating on the roof above and prepares to pursue him, Ganju Shiba drops down behind him and elbows the guard in the face, sending him rolling back along the walkway.
Climbing down from the roof with the rope attached to Ganju's grappling hook, Hanatarō chastises him for being so rough, and when an embarrassed Ganju inquires what kind of drug he used, Hanatarō explains that it is a tranquilizer called Shinten which knocks out those with low Reiryoku with only a drop on the skin. With Ganju unnerved by him carrying around such a thing, Hanatarō questions why he should not do so and assures him that it will not work on strong people. Shortly afterward, Ganju and Hanatarō reach the last door of Senzaikyū, which Ganju observes is a shutter-type. However, as Ganju questions how they will open it, Hanatarō pulls out a large wooden block key from within his shihakushō and reveals that he borrowed it from the cell lock storage room in the canal network last night. Though he admits that he probably should not have done this, Hanatarō recounts how he was thinking about how he always runs while Ichigo fights so hard, which he does not think is cool, and expresses his desire to save Rukia as well before concluding that he decided to do whatever he could even if he got punished for it later.
With Hanatarō brushing this off as useless because all he could do was steal a key, a surprised Ganju asserts that he did more than his share. As they slide the door upward upon unlocking it, Ganju theorizes that Rukia must be very attractive if everyone wants to save her so desperately, though Hanatarō denies this, and cheerfully looks inside the Shishinrō in search of her, only to be mortified upon seeing her standing alone in the cell. While Ganju recalls the Shinigami who brought a dying Kaien to the Shiba Clan household when he was young, Rukia asks him who he is and if he is with Ichigo, prompting Hanatarō to pop out from behind Ganju and express relief at her being alright. When a surprised Rukia wonders what he is doing here, Hanatarō promises to tell her later and begins pulling Rukia by the wrist toward the door as he tells Ganju to hurry because there is no time to waste.
However, Ganju remains still in stunned silence, and as a concerned Hanatarō inquires what is wrong, Rukia notices the pattern on Ganju's pants and realizes that he is a member of the Shiba Clan. Upon being asked by a confused Hanatarō if he knows Rukia, Ganju continues to recall the night of his brother's death and tensely states that he could never forget Rukia's face before claiming that she is the Shinigami who killed Kaien. Unnerved by this, Hanatarō attempts to assure Ganju that Rukia could never do something like this, but Ganju recounts how Kaien's slit throat and punctured chest were wounds from a sword and not something he would have died from had he fought a Hollow. With Ganju angrily proclaiming that she said she killed Kaien that night, Rukia tells Hanatarō that he is right and reaffirms to Ganju that Kaien indeed died by her hand.
Enraged by this, Ganju leaps toward Rukia and grabs her by the collar as she states that she will not stop him from killing her if he wants to. As he pulls on Ganju's free arm, Hanatarō begs him to stop and reminds him that they came here to save Rukia because Ichigo entrusted them with her life. Suddenly, the three of them experience the sensation of a powerful Reiatsu crushing down on them, and as Ganju and Hanatarō turn around to face the doorway in fright, 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki approaches them on the bridge.
Bleach, Volume 14
116. White Tower Rocks [ ]
Having been saved and partially healed by Yoruichi Shihōin, who reveals her true form to him, Ichigo Kurosaki heads to Senzaikyū to save his friends upon sensing 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki 's Reiatsu there.
At the Ugendō Quarters in the Thirteenth Division barracks, Captain Jūshirō Ukitake is shocked to learn of 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen 's murder, and when asked about the time and motive of this by Ukitake, the Riteitai relaying this to him details how it happened earlier today and neither the murderer nor motive are known, prompting Ukitake to wonder what happened while he was sleeping before asserting that he will get to the bottom of this.
Meanwhile, on the bridge leading to the Shishinrō within Senzaikyū, Ganju Shiba and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada are terrified to see 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki approaching. When Hanatarō notices that he recognizes Byakuya, Ganju describes him as being a member of the Kuchiki Clan, one of the four highest-ranked noble families, and the most powerful leader in the history of his family as well as the most famous of the Gotei 13 captains. Bemoaning Byakuya showing up at a time like this, Ganju bluntly states that they have no chance of defeating him and nervously proposes begging for their lives in a bid to convince him to let them go. Though a surprised Hanatarō questions what he is talking about and suggests that they run off with Rukia Kuchiki, Ganju points out how there is no way out other than crossing the bridge, which will lead to Byakuya killing them, and angrily demands to know if Hanatarō expects him to risk his life for Rukia, his brother 's murderer.
With a somber Rukia remaining silent, a trembling Hanatarō acknowledges that there is no reason for Ganju to fight for Rukia because this rescue was never personal for him before requesting that Ganju take Rukia with him while he stops Byakuya, shocking Ganju and Rukia. Upon being asked by a stunned Ganju if he knows what he is doing, Hanatarō affirms this and admits that he would do the same thing Ganju is doing if he were in the latter's position due to not wanting to risk his life for an enemy, and when an incredulous Ganju clarifies that he is referring to how Byakuya's Reiatsu is at least as powerful as 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki 's, which is something neither of them can handle, Hanatarō confirms this, only to explain that he cannot leave without trying to save Rukia after coming so far in order to do so. Bowing to Ganju, Hanatarō thanks him for everything and expresses hope that they will meet again.
Hanatarō turns and begins walking onto the bridge toward Byakuya, leaving Rukia to desperately call out to him in an attempt to stop him. As he holds his arm out in front of Rukia to stop her from following, Ganju observes that Hanatarō does not even have a Zanpakutō and is still visibly shaking in fear before yelling as he walks over to the wall and slams his forehead into it, startling Hanatarō. Walking up to Hanatarō with a bleeding forehead, Ganju orders him to move and kicks him back to Rukia's cell as he turns to face Byakuya. After mentally apologizing to Kaien Shiba because his revenge will have to wait due to Kūkaku Shiba not raising a coward who would abandon a friend, Ganju addresses Byakuya and declares that the latter will have to get past him.
Within the Study Chamber inside Sōkyoku Hill nearby, Ichigo Kurosaki sleeps on a mat surrounded by a healing field near the hidden entrance, and as he opens his eyes, Ichigo wonders where he is while realizing that he is not dead. When Yoruichi Shihōin approaches him, Ichigo expresses relief that the former is alright, prompting Yoruichi to note that Ichigo is not exactly in good shape. Upon being thanked by Ichigo for saving him, Yoruichi states that it was due to Ichigo's own will to live as much as anything and admits surprise as his wounds not having killed him instantly. However, as he recalls how badly he was injured during his fight with Kenpachi, Ichigo bolts up, causing his chest wound to begin bleeding, and responds to Yoruichi demanding to know what he is so worked up about by claiming that he has to help Yasutora Sado due to the latter being in danger. Yoruichi pushes Ichigo back down and reveals that Sado, Orihime Inoue, and Uryū Ishida are alright before noting that they are merely hurt but still alive after having fought the right people, with Orihime and Uryū escaping almost entirely unharmed.
Instructing Ichigo to stay in the healing field because his multiple crushed organs make him of little use to his friends right now, Yoruichi observes that Ichigo would have been cut in half had he not had a certain object in his pocket and expresses surprise that he still has it, leading Ichigo to look over and see that Yoruichi is holding up a Hollow mask with its left eye socket destroyed and cracked, which he is astonished to learn was in his pocket. With Yoruichi expressing confusion at his reaction, Ichigo details how he was told the mask saved him when he fought 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai yesterday, but threw it into one of the underground canals after Hanatarō insisted that he get rid of it, to Yoruichi's shock. After clarifying that Hanatarō is a member of the Fourth Division who healed him prior, Ichigo picks up the mask and wonders how it ended up with him once more, and when Yoruichi decides to hold onto it, Ichigo begins to protest due to only just having gotten it back, but Yoruichi threateningly orders him to hand it over, which prompts an intimidated Ichigo to give it back. While Ichigo grumbles about the belligerence of this request, Yoruichi mentally notes that it is better to be safe than sorry despite how unlikely the envisioned scenario is.
When Ichigo comments on how amazing Yoruichi is, the latter questions this, prompting Ichigo to detail how Yoruichi is unharmed despite the area being patrolled by captains and managed to carry him here with such a small body, only to be told this was not difficult in Yoruichi's original form. Registering what he was just told, Ichigo expresses bewilderment, and after noting that it had been kept secret from Ichigo and his friends all this time, Yoruichi decides to show Ichigo her true form and transforms into a tall, dark-skinned woman, leaving Ichigo speechless with shock. Yoruichi observes that most people assume she is male due to how she sounds in her cat form and mocks the foolish reactions she receives whenever she reveals her true form, which she takes great pleasure in eliciting, before attempting to show Ichigo how she brought him here as she holds up her Ryūkotsujō, only for a heavily blushing Ichigo to demand that she put on some clothes.
Apologizing, Yoruichi begins getting dressed while noting that she has not worn clothes in a long time and teases Ichigo about being so prudish when it comes to seeing a naked woman. With a still-blushing Ichigo reiterating his request for her to get dressed as he looks away, Yoruichi inquires if he is sure that he does not want to take this chance due to it possibly being his last opportunity, prompting a flustered Ichigo to declare that this is none of her business. As Yoruichi criticizes his sense of humor and claims that other people must consider him boring, Ichigo claims that this is not the case as he realizes that Yoruichi is not wearing pants and reminds her that she is supposed to get dressed from the bottom up. After getting fully dressed, Yoruichi holds up the Ryūkotsujō she used to transport Ichigo here and asks him if his stomach wound is better before observing that he likely made it worse by screaming so much as Ichigo clutches his bleeding abdomen and mentally calls her a jerk. While examining the Ryūkotsujō, Ichigo reiterates Yoruichi's explanation of it allowing the user to fly when filled with Reiryoku, and when Yoruichi proudly describes it as a rare and valuable artifact even within Soul Society, Ichigo notes that she still managed to acquire it and lists off Yoruichi's healing prowess, ability to change forms, and possession of unusual artifacts as he questions just who she is.
However, as Yoruichi begins to explain, she and Ichigo suddenly experience the crushing sensation of Byakuya's Reiatsu, leading Ichigo to recognize it as belonging to the man who destroyed his Shinigami powers and took Rukia from the Human World. When Yoruichi realizes that it is coming from Senzaikyū, Ichigo grabs his Shikai, Zangetsu, and begins running off. Upon being asked by Yoruichi what he plans to do, Ichigo asserts that he has to save Ganju and Hanatarō, who were headed to Senzaikyū, because no one else will before channeling his Reiryoku into the Ryūkotsujō, causing a large bat-like wing to unfurl as the Ryūkotsujō wraps itself around his arm and propels him into the air, leaving Yoruichi to angrily call him a fool.
Back on the bridge to the Shishinrō, Byakuya continues to exert his Reiatsu as he recounts how he came to see what terrible foe had gained entry to the cell by concealing its Reiatsu upon sensing someone moving toward this location, only to conclude by expressing his disappointment at finding a bug instead. Far behind Ganju, Rukia attempts to run after Ganju and stop him despite Hanatarō's protests, but ends up collapsing, leading her to realize that her body will not move the way she wants it to after losing so much Reiryoku from being kept in her Sekkiseki cell. Despite this, Hanatarō assures her that Ganju likely has a brilliant plan in mind due to how confidently he confronted Byakuya. Despite this, after mentally observing that it would be a waste of time to use tricks against someone as strong as Byakuya given how intense his Reiatsu is, Ganju decides to take his chances and rushes at Byakuya with his cleaver drawn, leaving Rukia and Hanatarō to express shock at him not having a plan after all.
Suddenly, as Ganju attempts to use his "Tears of Blood" smoke bombs, Byakuya appears behind him and tells Ganju to disappear because his sword is not for crushing vermin while Ganju finds his left arm slashed from his shoulder to his inner elbow, causing blood to spurt into the air as Ganju screams in pain. Hanatarō calls out to him in concern as Byakuya continues approaching him and Rukia, but Ganju demands that Byakuya stop. When Byakuya reiterates his order for Ganju to disappear, Ganju asserts that he does not care if Byakuya is a famous noble and proclaims that the Shiba Clan does not produce cowards who run away from fights so easily. Upon hearing Ganju mention that he is a Shiba, Byakuya apologizes for dismissing him and promises that Ganju will not leave here alive as he draws his Zanpakutō. With Ganju wondering what Byakuya plans to do from such a distance and Rukia pleading with him to not do this, Byakuya releases his Shikai, Senbonzakura, causing the blade of his Zanpakutō to separate into a thousand slender blade petals. While Rukia screams at him to run, a stunned Ganju is slashed in multiple areas of his body at once by the blade petals, leaving him to collapse as he loses consciousness and a large amount of blood.
Seeing a petrified Hanatarō watching this, Byakuya turns to him and raises his Zanpakutō handle to attack once more despite Rukia moving between the two of them and begging him to stop, only for Ukitake to appear behind him and grab his wrist before he can follow through. As he comments on how dangerous it is around here, Ukitake tells Byakuya he has done enough, and when Rukia calls out to him in astonishment, Ukitake kindly greets her while observing that she has lost weight and inquiring how she has been. Upon being asked by Byakuya what he is doing here, Ukitake claims that he should be the one asking this question and points out how there is a ban against drawing one's Zanpakutō even if it is done for the purpose of driving off Ryoka. Byakuya merely informs Ukitake that there is a wartime exemption permitting this in effect, leaving Ukitake incredulous at such a measure being taken over the appearance of a few Ryoka as he questions if Aizen was killed by one of them.
However, both Ukitake and Byakuya are shocked upon sensing a powerful Reiatsu approaching their location, and as Ukitake describes it as being captain-level despite not recognizing it, Hanatarō realizes who it belongs to as Rukia sees Ichigo hurtle from under the bridge into the air above her with the aid of the Ryūkotsujō. Landing in front of Rukia while the others watch in astonishment, Ichigo walks past her as she attempts to address him and apologizes to Hanatarō for sending him and Ganju ahead as Hanatarō tearfully recounts what has happened. As he acknowledges this, Ichigo turns to Rukia and declares that he has come to rescue her, only for Rukia to remain silent. When Ichigo questions why she is not at least smiling after he came all this way to help her, an emotional Rukia reminds him that she told him to not come after her and points out how injured Ichigo is. Despite this, Ichigo merely acknowledges that he is an idiot, and as he looks over Ganju's bloody form, Ichigo gives Rukia permission to yell at him as much as she wants after he beats Byakuya.
117. Remnant 2 [Deny the Shadow] [ ]
Ichigo Kurosaki confronts 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki on the bridge to Senzaikyū, where he demonstrates his improved power and skill.
With Ichigo Kurosaki staring down 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki on the bridge leading to Senzaikyū, Rukia Kuchiki calls out to him as she stands nearby, prompting Ichigo to question if she intends to tell him to give up and assert that Rukia is coming with him even if she wants to be executed before declaring that he is rejecting all of her protests. Flabbergasted by Ichigo deciding to ignore the wishes of the person he is saving, Rukia demands to know what kind of tyrannical rescue this is, only for Ichigo to claim that he does not want to hear any snide remarks from the one who needs rescuing as he instructs her to find a corner where she can tremble and beg for help. After staring at Ichigo in mutual irritation for a few seconds, a smiling Rukia observes that Ichigo has not changed at all and still does not listen to her. Questioning why he would, Ichigo notes that Rukia always worries about him and should worry about herself instead. With Ichigo assuring her that he will not get himself killed because he has gotten stronger, Rukia recalls Kaien Shiba smiling and emotionally shuts her eyes.
Meanwhile, as he stares in shock at Ichigo, 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake asks Byakuya who he is, leading Byakuya to assure him that Ichigo is not related to the one Ukitake is thinking of and is just a nobody Ryoka. Byakuya declares that he will dispose of Ichigo and allow this trifling conflict to come to an end, and as he begins approaching, Ichigo comments on Byakuya's arrogance in not attacking while he and Rukia were talking. After wondering who Ichigo thinks he is speaking to, Byakuya inquires if the former thought Byakuya would attack while his guard was down and criticizes Ichigo's confidence before exerting his Reiatsu, causing Rukia to fall to her knees. While Rukia and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada affirm with each other that they are okay, Ichigo draws his Shikai, Zangetsu, as Byakuya observes that he has improved from when they last met if he can remain unfazed within such Reiatsu. Though he admits that he is uncertain of how Ichigo regained his Shinigami powers, Byakuya asserts that he should have enjoyed a peaceful life in the Human World because coming here to lose the life that Byakuya spared was foolish. However, Ichigo states that he does not plan on losing it and proclaims that he will be going home after he beats Byakuya, who reiterates his criticism of Ichigo's confidence once more as he disappears from view with Shunpo.
While Rukia remembers Byakuya using Senka against Ichigo in their previous encounter, Byakuya attempts to attack Ichigo from behind with his Zanpakutō, but Ichigo intercepts his stab with Zangetsu at the last second and notes Byakuya's criticism of his confidence before grinning as he tells a stunned Byakuya that he can see him and repels his attack, pushing Byakuya back. As he looks at Ichigo, Byakuya once again comments on his improvement and holds his Zanpakutō in front of him while promising to demonstrate the difference in their skills before Ichigo can drown in his newfound strength, as the latter could not beat him in a thousand years. With Rukia screaming at Ichigo to run, Byakuya attempts to release his Shikai, Senbonzakura, only for Yoruichi Shihōin to appear and bind the entire blade in cloth before he can finish, leaving those present stunned by her arrival.
118. The Supernal Tag [ ]
Intervening in the conflict on the bridge, Yoruichi Shihōin saves Ichigo Kurosaki from 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki and demonstrates her formidable prowess in Shunpo.
As he rests in his cell with his arms restrained, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai is confronted by his Zanpakutō Spirit, Zabimaru, who criticizes Renji for still being asleep. While Renji expresses annoyance at this being the only thing Zabimaru has to say after all this time, Zabimaru asserts that they are fully recovered and ready to fight, meaning that it is Renji's turn to get better so they can fight Zangetsu once more, which Zabimaru declares they will beat next time. However, Renji reveals that Ichigo Kurosaki is not his enemy anymore, and as a surprised Zabimaru acknowledges this and questions who Renji's enemy is now, Renji merely stares out the barred window next to Zabimaru.
Meanwhile, on the bridge leading to Senzaikyū, Yoruichi Shihōin stands between Ichigo and 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki. When 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada wonders who she is, Rukia Kuchiki expresses recognition of Yoruichi's name and identifies her as the former Commander-In-Chief and Corps Commander of the Onmitsukidō. While Byakuya admits that he thought Yoruichi was dead after not hearing of her for over a century, Ichigo thanks Yoruichi for coming to help him, only to request that she stay out of this because he has to defeat Byakuya. However, Yoruichi dismisses the idea of this being possible and moves over to Ichigo with Shunpo before jabbing her hand into his stomach wound, shocking those present. With a confused Ichigo collapsing, Yoruichi catches and hoists him over her shoulder, prompting Ukitake to observe that she shoved a powerful anesthetic like Gaten or Hōten directly into his organs as he questions if she intends to heal him.
When Byakuya declares that he will not allow this and that she cannot escape from here, Yoruichi inquires if he considers himself to be her equal and if he has ever once beaten her in a game of tag, which leads Byakuya to suggest that they give it another try as he and Yoruichi disappear with Shunpo. Upon seeing Yoruichi appear behind him, Byakuya turns around and slashes at her with his Zanpakutō, only to discover she is gone as Yoruichi reappears on the far end of the bridge behind Ukitake. However, as Yoruichi lands, Byakuya appears behind her and mocks her for believing that she could outrun him with such mediocre Shunpo before slashing her across the chest, severing her left arm in the process. Suddenly, Yoruichi's falling body transforms into a cut piece of fabric as the real Yoruichi lands on a stunned Byakuya's outstretched arm and mocks him for believing that he could stop her with such mediocre Shunpo. After moving to the roof of a nearby building, Yoruichi promises to make Ichigo stronger than Byakuya in three days, and as she declares a truce until that point while acknowledging how self-serving it is, Yoruichi proclaims that she will not be captured if Byakuya pursues her before disappearing with Shunpo.
119. Secret of the Moon [ ]
While 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake resolves the conflict on the bridge to Senzaikyū, Orihime Inoue and Uryū Ishida blend in with the Shinigami by donning shihakushō as Yoruichi Shihōin brings Ichigo Kurosaki to a hidden location.
As Yoruichi Shihōin leaps across the Seireitei with an unconscious Ichigo Kurosaki over her shoulder, 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake observes that they got away, and when 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki walks away from the bridge leading to Senzaikyū, Ukitake questions where he is going and what should be done about the Ryoka on the bridge. With Byakuya claiming to have lost interest and giving him permission to do as he wishes with them, a confused Ukitake comments on his moody nature while Rukia Kuchiki suddenly collapses behind him, to 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada 's concern. Ukitake realizes that Rukia must have been concentrating the whole time Byakuya was here and calls out his 3rd Seats, Sentarō Kotsubaki and Kiyone Kotetsu, who leap up onto the bridge and kneel in front of him as Hanatarō assumes they are new enemies.
Upon being asked by an unnerved Ukitake how long they have been here after he notes that they followed him, Sentarō reveals that they have been present since Ukitake first arrived on the bridge, and when Ukitake reminds them that he instructed them to not follow him because it was dangerous, Sentarō proclaims that his undying respect for Ukitake would not allow him to idly sit by, prompting an irritated Kiyone to assert that this is also true for her and that she respects Ukitake more than Sentarō does. While Sentarō and Kiyone begin to argue over this claim, an embarrassed Ukitake orders Kiyone to contact the Fourth Division and have them send an advanced rescue unit for the critically wounded man lying nearby, surprising Hanatarō, before telling Sentarō to put Rukia back in her cell.
Though Hanatarō attempts to stop him, Sentarō angrily tells him to move aside and denies wanting to do this, intimidating Hanatarō. Gently picking up an unconscious Rukia, Sentarō assures her that he and Ukitake will get her out of her cell by talking to the higher-ups as he carries her back into the Shishinrō, leading Kiyone to declare that she is more worried about Rukia than Sentarō is and that she will be the one to get Rukia out alongside Ukitake as she runs after them. With Sentarō and Kiyone continuing to argue as Kiyone prepares to contact the Fourth Division, Hanatarō approaches Ukitake, who observes that he is probably wondering why Ukitake is letting him live, which a surprised Hanatarō confirms. As he questions why he would not, Ukitake points out how they still do not know who killed 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen, which the Ryoka may have information about, and thus he could not kill Hanatarō until this has been investigated, but clarifies that Hanatarō attempting to save one of his subordinates is more important to him even if it was through questionable means and promises that he will not stand by and watch Hanatarō get killed.
Meanwhile, in another part of the Seireitei, 9th Division 20th Seat Toshimori Umesada is informed by Orihime Inoue that they did not find any Ryoka in a nearby area. Acknowledging this, Toshimori instructs the Shinigami under his command to search every square inch of a nearby street and warns them that the cunning Ryoka will try to sneak past them, which they comply with as they run off. Orihime and Uryū Ishida stand before Toshimori while dressed in Shinigami shihakushō, and upon being asked by Toshimori if they are new after he thanks Orihime for the report, Orihime cheerfully affirms this and claims that this is her first term of service while Uryū meekly states that he is reporting for duty. After inspecting the two of them, Toshimori comments on Orihime's attractiveness and lecherously suggests that she come over to his residence tonight, to her confusion. Toshimori introduces himself as one of the fifteen 20th Seat officers selected for the 9th Division this year and claims to be the most successful member of his class, but finds Uryū standing between him and Orihime as he promises that she will not regret doing this.
With an irritated Toshimori questioning what he is doing, Uryū calmly observes that a man of his position does not have time for entertaining with Ryoka on the loose in the Seireitei and a special wartime exemption issued. Though angered by the idea of Uryū lecturing him as he clutches the former by the collar, Toshimori is distracted when the Shinigami he sent to investigate the street report that they did not find anyone and request new orders, leading him to run off in order to deal with this as he promises to make Uryū pay for this once the current conflict is settled. While Uryū sticks out his tongue and notes that this is fine because he will be long gone by the time the conflict is over, Orihime thanks him for his help, leaving an embarrassed Uryū to assert that he simply does not like men like Toshimori while Orihime expresses delight at how well her plan is going, which she did not expect. Affirming that Orihime is clever, Uryū recalls how they got here.
In the past, as he huddles behind some bushes with Orihime, Uryū is shocked by Orihime's suggestion that they steal uniforms from Shinigami. Orihime clarifies that they will be borrowing rather than stealing, though Uryū fails to see the difference, and points out how they heavily resemble the Shinigami aside from their clothing, which means that they can move around unnoticed if they dress like the Shinigami. Upon noticing two Shinigami approaching their location, one male and one female, Orihime jumps out alongside Uryū on the count of three and swiftly knocks them out. Shortly afterward, with the two Shinigami bound and gagged in a warehouse, Orihime takes their clothes and apologetically assures them that they will just be borrowing their uniforms. When an unnerved Uryū expresses surprise at how quickly she knocked out the two Shinigami, Orihime details how Tatsuki Arisawa taught her some karate and told her that she could easily reach the rank of first dan, prompting a stunned Uryū to mentally note that he should never fight her. As she declares that it is time for them to change, Orihime begins taking off her shirt, only for a shocked and blushing Uryū to avert his gaze while demanding to know what she is doing. Bashfully stating that Uryū is right about boys and girls not changing in the same room and admitting that she thought she was with Tatsuki for a second, Orihime quickly prepares a changing room for Uryū with a fabric cover slung over a piece of rope in front of some crates, leaving him to begin putting on a shihakushō behind it as he observes with confusion that it is normally supposed to be the other way around.
In the present, with Uryū sitting on some stairs and blushing as he remembers this, Orihime writes in a notebook and recounts how they learned the location of Senzaikyū from the two Shinigami earlier before concluding that the others are likely already on their way there. When Orihime concludes that Ichigo is probably already there with a happy expression, Uryū gets up and decides that they should hurry in order to get there before Ichigo screws everything up, which Orihime agrees with. While Orihime and Uryū discuss which division they should belong to because they need to be ready to provide such information immediately if asked, 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi makes himself visible on the steps near where they were located prior and watches them depart.
Elsewhere, Yoruichi enters a hidden room within the Study Chamber inside Sōkyoku Hill and drops Ichigo on the ground as she pants heavily while carrying Ichigo's Shikai, Zangetsu, on her back. Noting that she became this exerted after only performing a few hundred consecutive Shunpo movements due to being out of action for one hundred years, Yoruichi claims that she is getting old. After wrapping Ichigo in a blanket, Yoruichi sits against the wall across from him and urges him to wake up due to his need to get stronger before promising to discuss the true power of Zangetsu with him once he does.
120. Shake Hands With Grenades [ ]
Yoruichi Shihōin reveals the existence of Bankai to Ichigo Kurosaki while Orihime Inoue and Uryū Ishida walk into 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi 's trap.
Standing with Ichigo Kurosaki in a Study Chamber within Sōkyoku Hill, Yoruichi Shihōin notes that they do not have time for him to heal completely and that Ichigo will have to endure the pain he is in.
In the past, Ichigo grabs Yoruichi by the collar and slams her against the wall as he demands to know why she removed him from the confrontation on the bridge leading to Senzaikyū even though he had the best chance of survival of anyone there. With Ichigo claiming that Rukia Kuchiki, Ganju Shiba, and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada are going to get killed now, Yoruichi questions his confidence in his power and coldly asserts that no one present could have fought 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki and lived before flipping a belligerent Ichigo onto his back with Taketonbo, leaving him gasping for air. As she instructs Ichigo to stop shouting so he does not reopen his wounds, Yoruichi explains that carrying him away was the best she could do since it was the only way to escape Byakuya, and when Ichigo inquires why she took him and not Rukia, Yoruichi acknowledges this and reiterates that no one there had any hope of defeating Byakuya, only to reveal that Ichigo might have a chance the others would not in three days, making him the only logical choice. Ichigo stares in astonishment as Yoruichi points out how 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake was also there and assures Ichigo that he will imprison but not kill Ganju and Hanatarō due to being a very dutiful man. Concluding that they will be alright, Yoruichi states that Ichigo only needs to concentrate on becoming stronger now and promises to train him for three days so that he can defeat Byakuya and save his friends with his own hands.
In the present, while Ichigo draws his Shikai, Zangetsu, Yoruichi asks him if he is aware that Zangetsu is a constant release-type Zanpakutō, prompting a surprised Ichigo to realize that she is referring to the classification that 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki 's Zanpakutō falls under and admit that he always knew Zangetsu was different from others since it never changes shape even if he calls its name. When Yoruichi observes that he also does not know that Zangetsu has a second stage of release, Ichigo can only stare in astonishment as she details how all Zanpakutō have two stages of release, Shikai and Bankai, before revealing that it is mandatory for a captain to be able to perform both. Clarifying that this means every captain has mastered Shikai and Bankai with one exception, which is Kenpachi himself, Yoruichi explains how Kenpachi is the only Shinigami in the history of Soul Society to become a captain without being able to perform Bankai or even knowing the name of his Zanpakutō due to his immense fighting prowess.
Yoruichi elaborates that, though it is dependent on its wielder's innate talent and training, a Zanpakutō's Bankai is generally five to ten times stronger than its Shikai, further shocking Ichigo, but admits that this power difference requires at least ten years of training to fully master even for someone with great talent. With Ichigo reminding her that he does not have this much time, Yoruichi acknowledges this and clarifies that she is referring to normal training before revealing that she is taking a completely different approach for Ichigo that, despite the great risk it carries, will allow him to learn Bankai in three days.
Meanwhile, as he and Orihime Inoue run through the Seireitei, Uryū Ishida notes that Tsubaki is still not fully healed, prompting Orihime to sadly affirm that this is true even though the other spirits of her Shun Shun Rikka spent hours healing him last night because they seem to have a harder time healing each other. When Orihime apologizes for not being much help, Uryū praises her as being immensely helpful due to her ability to both protect and heal the two of them, which she thanks him for. Internally, Uryū asserts that this is for the best because it allows Orihime to bring up the rear and focus on defense and healing, where the enemy is less likely to target her, and notes that spending the last few days with her has convinced him Orihime is not cut out for fighting because she hates seeing someone get hurt even if it is an enemy, making battles not good for her or her spirits.
Suddenly, Makizō Aramaki emerges from a nearby street and demands to know what division Orihime and Uryū are part of, as well as why they are here. Upon being told that they are part of the Eleventh Division, Aramaki tosses aside the waterskin of sake and approaches them while revealing that he is also part of the Eleventh Division, which is a combat unit, and wondering who in his division would be stupid enough to walk around without their Zanpakutō. With Uryū mentally stressing over not realizing that the divisions specialized in different areas, Aramaki grabs the collar of Orihime's shihakushō and points out how the insignia on the inside is that of the Twelfth Division rather than the Eleventh, though he observes that they would not know that, before questioning who they really are.
However, as Uryū decides that their attempt at blending in has gone awry, Aramaki is hit on the head with a wooden rod by a member of the Twelfth Division, who stands behind him with three other members of his division. With the Shinigami berating Aramaki for accusing his fellow Shinigami while drunk and inquiring if she and Uryū are alright, Orihime thanks them, leading the Shinigami with the rod to assure her that it is the least they could do because the Twelfth Division looks out for its own as one of his comrades claims that members of the Eleventh Division are always trying to start trouble with them. While the Shinigami laugh this off as a misunderstanding since anyone could misplace their Zanpakutō, a silent Uryū realizes that something is wrong and that Aramaki had a good point despite being drunk, and as he wonders why these Shinigami would be helping them despite their suspicious claim of belonging to the Eleventh Division while wearing the insignia of the Twelfth, a shocked Uryū rushes toward Orihime and warns her to get away from the Shinigami, only to be interrupted when one of them explodes in a large blast, splashing blood and organs on his fellow Shinigami, who begin running away in shock. With one of the Shinigami frantically questioning why this is happening and asserting that this is not what they were told would happen, 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi stands with his lieutenant, Nemu Kurotsuchi, and blows up the rest of them with a detonator as he claims that a grenade should not come flying back once thrown.
121. In Sane We Trust [ ]
With 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi interested in Orihime Inoue 's unique powers, Uryū Ishida has Makizō Aramaki take her to safety while he engages Mayuri.
One of the Shinigami under 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi 's command recalls how it took him four attempts to pass the enlistment exam for the Gotei 13 after graduating from the Shin'ō Academy and how he was assigned to the Twelfth Division despite wanting to be under 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori, with some Ryoka infiltrating Soul Society for the first time in centuries on the twentieth day of his service and offering a chance for a promotion for whoever caught them, before he and three others were approached by Mayuri with the assignment of luring two Ryoka who had disguised themselves as Shinigami to the Twelfth Division's barracks, which would be dangerous but not difficult if he and his fellow Shinigami were careful. Remembering how he considered it a great opportunity because it might get him promoted to a seated position and bring him one step closer to Hinamori, though he did not say anything to avoid losing his shot at a seated position by looking insecure, the blood-spattered Shinigami tearfully runs toward Mayuri and mentally declares that this was not how it was supposed to be and was not the deal they made, only to be cut off when Mayuri presses a detonator in his hand while standing with his lieutenant, Nemu Kurotsuchi, causing his and the other two remaining Shinigami's bodies to swell up and distort before exploding.
However, as the smoke clears, Mayuri is surprised to see a cracked and blood-spattered Santen Kesshun protecting Uryū Ishida, who stands over Makizō Aramaki and a trembling and kneeling Orihime Inoue as she shakily thanks him for calling out to her, prompting Uryū to praise her in turn for reacting in time while noting that this was only possible due to Orihime's considerable practice with using her abilities without reciting her kotodama. With Uryū recalling how he found Orihime fatigued from training to accomplish this the previous night and her excitement over succeeding in summoning her Shun Shun Rikka without calling their names, Orihime asks him about the status of the other three Shinigami, leading Uryū to confirm that they are dead and assure her that she she should not feel guilty about it before looking over his shoulder and declaring that Mayuri should feel guilt instead as the Santen Kesshun shatters behind him.
Intrigued by Orihime's Santen Kesshun, Mayuri inquires if Orihime produced it, and though Uryū states that he is not in the mood for conversation, Mayuri ignores him and commends the unique nature of this power while offering to make Orihime his research subject. As Uryū angrily proclaims that they are not making any deals with him, Mayuri promises to make it worth Orihime's while and claims to be kind to women. Lying on the ground in front of Orihime, a bewildered Aramaki wonders why she is crying and dismisses the possibility of her being scared due to her risking her life in order to save him rather than simply hide behind her shield, leading him to express confusion upon realizing that she is crying for the dead Shinigami and question why she she saved him even though he is her enemy.
Mayuri decides to offer Orihime the best possible terms and details how he will restrict the daily drug regime to only eight doses and biomechanical experiments to only five hours per day, feed Orihime orally, give her clothing when she sleeps, and try hard to not perform any modifications which might kill her, which he considers to be exceptional terms for a research subject, only to find himself suddenly confronted by Uryū holding his Heilig Bogen, Kojaku, and aiming a Heilig Pfeil at his face from only a few feet away. After looking at the area where Uryū was standing and noting that he is fast, Mayuri comments on how rare of a species Quincy like him are before claiming to no longer be interested in his kind after completing his research on them and requesting that he step aside. When a confused Uryū inquires what he means by this and who he is, Mayuri admonishes him for charging into enemy territory without at least knowing the top 13 Shinigami and introduces himself as the 12th Division Captain and President of the Shinigami Research and Development Institute while exerting his Reiatsu.
With Mayuri declaring that he can forget this because he will not know anything in a moment, an intimidated Uryū tells Orihime to run, and when she protests this due to wanting to fight as well, Uryū orders Aramaki to take her and run. Upon being asked by an incredulous Aramaki why he should do this, Uryū asserts that he is doomed if he stays here and demands that he force Orihime if necessary before promising to shoot him if he does not comply, leading an unnerved Aramaki to grab Orihime and begin running away. When Mayuri reminds Aramaki that he was not given permission to leave and uses Jabarakaina to greatly extend his arm in an attempt to grab him, Uryū destroys his hand with a Heilig Pfeil that heavily damages part of the wall behind it and claims to have not given Mayuri permission to stop them, only for Mayuri to reiterate that he is not interested in Uryū.
122. Don't Lose Your Grip On [ ]
Makizō Aramaki carries Orihime Inoue away from the battlefield as Uryū Ishida discovers 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi to be more deadly than he expected.
As Makizō Aramaki runs through the Seireitei with her slung over his shoulder, Orihime Inoue pleads with him to let her go while attempting to push herself off of him, and when Aramaki reminds her that he is trying to help her and could just leave her here, Orihime accepts this due to wanting to help Uryū Ishida, prompting Aramaki to claim that he cannot abandon women and children due to being a man of chivalry. However, upon being bitten on the shoulder by Orihime, an angered Aramaki chops the back of her neck with his free hand and apologizes for not wanting to get caught up in the battle they are fleeing from as she slumps over, only to realize that he may have been too rough upon seeing that Orihime is completely unconscious. Making a mental note to apologize when Orihime wakes up because she does not seem like a bad person despite being a Ryoka, Aramaki runs up a set of stairs while 11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi steps into view behind him.
Meanwhile, 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi stands with his extended and damaged arm as he explains to Uryū that it is very time-consuming to set up. Upon seeing Mayuri grabbing his arm stump, an alerted Uryū leaps back and is shocked to see Mayuri blow off the remnants of his arm below the elbow, leaving the severed pieces to fall to the ground. Claiming that it is very painful, Mayuri pulls out a Hojiku-Zai and sticks it into his arm's vein before injecting the contents, causing his forearm to rapidly regenerate in a grotesque and mutilated manner, further astonishing Uryū. Mayuri observes that Orihime got away, but dismisses this as irrelevant because he only needs a strand of her hair in order to find her and wishes to study her until only mincemeat is left once he does since he believes that every second of experimentation is precious. Though appalled by Mayuri's monstrous demeanor, Uryū mentally notes that he should have a chance against Mayuri due to the latter's strong but unstable Reiatsu likely allowing Uryū to buy enough time for Orihime to escape before he does as well.
As he looks over the area, Uryū internally admits that he cannot shoot both Mayuri and 12th Division Lieutenant Nemu Kurotsuchi at the same time, but after realizing Nemu is not moving even though her captain is in danger and assuming that she cannot fight, Uryū decides to go for Mayuri first and fires a Heilig Pfeil from his Heilig Bogen, Kojaku, which Mayuri evades, only to see Uryū has disappeared from the area in front of him as another Heilig Pfeil slams into him from behind, creating a large explosion. However, while Uryū stands on a nearby rooftop and watches the dust settle, Mayuri appears on top of the connecting roof nearby and praises his speed. With a stunned Uryū forming another Heilig Pfeil and aiming Kojaku at him once more, Mayuri details how Uryū has been using Hirenkyaku, an advanced Quincy technique that allows one to move at high speeds by creating a current of Reishi beneath their feet, and expresses surprise at someone as young as Uryū mastering it while Uryū wonders how he moved so fast in turn.
Mayuri explains that the Shinigami have a similar technique called Shunpo, which he considers tiring, and declares that he will have to study Orihime later due to being a busy man before proclaiming that he will kill Uryū with the least effort possible as he draws his Zanpakutō and releases his Shikai, Ashisogi Jizō, transforming the blade into a golden, deformed trident with the design of a baby's face emanating vapor. Recognizing what Mayuri has done, Uryū recalls 7th Division 4th Seat Jirōbō Ikkanzaka releasing his Shikai, Tsunzakigarasu, and mentally admits that he cannot tell what Ashisogi Jizō does from its shape. As Mayuri approaches him, Uryū frantically tries to figure out if Ashisogi Jizō can absorb attacks, and with Mayuri drawing closer, Uryū decides that he does not have time to think and prepares to attack.
Suddenly, Nemu leaps onto the roof between the two of them and grabs Uryū's Heilig Pfeil with her right hand while pulling on his collar with her left, causing them to fall off the roof as Uryū bemoans having forgotten about her. Though he frantically tells Nemu to let go before she gets hurt, Uryū sees Mayuri leaping toward them and realizes he is not hesitating before being slashed across the chest by Mayuri alongside Nemu, whose upper back is cut open, leaving him in disbelief at how Mayuri hacked right through her. As she and Uryū land on the ground, Nemu separates from Uryū and smiles as she looks at Mayuri, only for the latter to angrily punch her in the face while admonishing her for not heeding his instruction to never let go even if her arms were torn off. With Uryū slumping against a nearby wall, Nemu apologizes, prompting Mayuri to claim that he was not expecting much from her anyway before declaring that defeating Uryū at this point will be as easy as strangling a baby.
123. Pledge My Pride To [ ]
Having been immobilized by 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi 's Shikai, Ashisogi Jizō, Uryū Ishida learns of the true depths of Mayuri's madness.
Slumped against a wall with a large gash in his chest, Uryū Ishida is stunned by 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi sacrificing his lieutenant, Nemu Kurotsuchi, just to kill him. Standing over Uryū with his Shikai, Ashisogi Jizō, in hand, Mayuri observes that Uryū must have a high threshold for pain if he is sweating but not screaming, and when Uryū clarifies that this is his second time being cut by a sword, Mayuri sarcastically states that he now has a wealth of experience and prepares to attack, only to be interrupted when Nemu collapses behind him. With an annoyed Mayuri telling her to be quiet, Nemu apologizes and requests some of his Hojiku-Zai because her lungs have been damaged and she cannot maintain her vital function. However, after walking over to Nemu, Mayuri instead viciously stomps on her abdomen, causing her to scream in pain while Uryū watches in shock.
As he repeatedly stomps on Nemu, Mayuri demands to know who she thinks she is talking to and if she believes that her body would really break so easily. Upon being begged by an astonished Uryū to stop because he is killing her, Mayuri holds Nemu up by her hair and inquires if Uryū believes such wounds could kill someone he created himself, which he takes as mockery of his skill. When Uryū is stunned by the idea of him creating Nemu, Mayuri confirms this and explains that Nemu is the result of his experiments with Gigai and Gikon before revealing that she is his daughter. Uryū is left speechless by this, and as he preemptively dismisses Uryū's righteous indignation over this, Mayuri claims that the manner in which a father treats his daughter is none of his business while slamming Nemu's head against the wall.
Attempting to get up and stop this, Uryū realizes that he cannot move his limbs, prompting Mayuri to mock him for only just noticing this before attributing this to the immobilizing power of Ashisogi Jizō. Though Uryū assumes that it releases a paralyzing toxin, Mayuri decries this as mediocre and details how Ashisogi Jizō synthesizes a far more complex drug that selectively blocks only the neural impulses involved in movement. While clarifying that this means Uryū will only lose his ability to move and still feel pain, Mayuri repeatedly stabs him in the arm with Ashisogi Jizō, causing Uryū to scream in pain. Irritated by this due to considering a woman's scream to be more interesting, Mayuri withdraws Ashisogi Jizō and orders Nemu to finish off Uryū, only to remember that he cut and paralyzed her with Ashisogi Jizō as well before stomping on her head in anger.
With Uryū struggling to tell him to stop once more, Mayuri turns to face him and questions if he is really such a fool to feel pity for a woman who is his enemy, and when Mayuri wonders if this is the pride that the Quincy hold in such high regard, Uryū is surprised by his knowledge of it, prompting Mayuri to note that it must mean something important to them due to all Quincy speaking of it before they die. As Uryū wonders what he means, Mayuri reiterates his statement of having completed his research on Quincy and recounts how he has studied them thoroughly by applying various stimuli to the minds and bodies of Quincy to observe their response, drilling holes in the skulls of Quincy while they were still alive, making Quincy burn their own children, vivisecting and crushing Quincy, and studying them until they were nothing but pulp, with every single Quincy swearing at some point that they would not do something on their pride as Quincy and would stop him, to his great irritation.
Concluding that one stab from Ashisogi Jizō will make all words of resistance meaningless, Mayuri brushes off a sickened Uryū's response and decides to relay his own hardship as he notes how difficult it was to perform this research due to the Quincy being a rare breed by the time he became President of the Shinigami Research and Development Institute, with Shinigami monitoring the few that were left. After explaining how he persuaded the Shinigami assigned to each Quincy to delay their rescue when they were attacked and turned the Quincy Souls that they brought back into research subjects, Mayuri bemoans how hard it was to arrange this and recalls how the last Quincy he experimented on was an old man who kept calling out the name of his student or grandchild, which Mayuri considers disgraceful, as he tosses a photo of the man's remains to Uryū while clarifying that it was taken after he had finished his experiments.
A mortified Uryū sees the bloody head of his grandfather and mentor, Sōken Ishida, in the picture as Mayuri attempts to recall the student's name, only to give up due to losing interest in his subjects after his experiments are over. Suddenly, a surge of energy erupts behind Mayuri, and as he turns around in astonishment, Uryū reveals that he was the student and that Sōken was his grandfather as he forces his body to stand up with Ransōtengai. Though Mayuri does not understand why this matters, Uryū admits that he is glad Orihime Inoue is not here because he does not want her to see this before swearing to kill Mayuri on his pride as a Quincy, to the latter's intrigue.
Bleach, Volume 15
124. Crying Little People [ ]
Recalling his past with his father and grandfather, who had set him on his course of becoming a Quincy, Uryū Ishida decides that he must stop 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi even if it costs him his spiritual powers.
Standing before a wounded Uryū Ishida while his lieutenant, Nemu Kurotsuchi, watches in concern as she lies on the ground nearby, 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi wonders how Uryū can be standing despite having his arms and legs slashed by Mayuri's Shikai, Ashisogi Jizō, leading him to realize that Uryū is using Ransōtengai to move his limbs with countless Reishi strings like a puppet. With Uryū ripping off part of his Quincy uniform and tying it around his wounded arm to staunch the bleeding, Mayuri mentally details how Ransōtengai was created so old and frail Quincy could keep fighting Hollows because internal injuries hampering movement mean nothing when using the technique and it allows one to keep fighting until they literally turn to dust, making it the ultimate combat move of the Quincy. As he admits that he thought Ransōtengai was a lost art found only in history books due to none of the 2661 Quincy he studied being able to perform even part of the technique, Mayuri observes that Uryū has mastered it at such a young age and inquires if he is a genius.
In the past, a young Uryū stands near his father, Ryūken Ishida, in the latter's office, and as he looks through a book from his library, Ryūken reveals that he knows Uryū has been spending time with Sōken Ishida again. Upon being reminded by Ryūken that he has been told to not go there, Uryū begins to protest, but Ryūken asserts that Uryū also knows he does not like to hear excuses and declares that Uryū's time would be better spent learning to save the living because saving the dead is the job of the Shinigami. When Ryūken states that he is not interested in the Quincy and Uryū does not have the talent for being one, which means the latter should let them die out with Sōken's generation, Uryū sorrowfully questions why his father hates Quincy so much, only for Ryūken to coldly claim that there is no profit in them.
Some time later, Sōken kneels in front of a sobbing Uryū in a park and notes that Ryūken has a point because of how hard it is to make a living as a Quincy and him having a family to support, only to conclude that neither he nor Uryū are wrong to hold their respective stances. Bringing up how he can see the Hollows and the people whom they attack, as well as how the Shinigami cannot handle the situation by themselves, Uryū wonders how Ryūken can ignore them despite obviously being able to see them as well before declaring that he wants to become a powerful Quincy and protect everyone from Hollows so his father will think Quincy are worth something, leading a touched Sōken to thank him.
In the present, as Uryū forms his Heilig Bogen, Kojaku, a grinning Mayuri praises this development since it means Uryū will not bore him after all and pulls on the end of the cone covering his left ear to bring out a fleshy tendril while promising to take Uryū back alive so both he and Orihime Inoue can be his research subjects.
In the past, Sōken asks Uryū to try to understand Ryūken since what one thinks is right depends on what one wants to protect, and when Uryū sarcastically inquires if Ryūken wants to protect his money, Sōken merely puts his hand on Uryū's head and assures him that he will find out in time, which will lead Uryū to learn what he wants to protect as well. Sōken begins walking Uryū home and explains that he will be entrusting him with the Sanrei Glove for when this time comes because he will eventually face a battle he cannot avoid, one that is beyond his abilities and will require him to sacrifice himself, if he still wishes to walk the path of a Quincy after finding out what he wants to protect.
In the present, Uryū recalls Sōken instructing him to use the Sanrei Glove in such a situation and begins moving his left hand toward the Sanrei Glove as he apologizes to Sōken for not understanding Ryūken or even knowing what he wants to protect. However, Uryū mentally asserts that he at least knows what he will not allow and remembers Sōken detailing how he can reach the peak of his Quincy powers by training with the Sanrei Glove on for seven days and nights, but must never take it off once he puts it on because he will lose his Quincy powers if he does. Apologizing to Sōken for disobeying him one last time, Uryū grasps one of the protrusions on the wrist of the Sanrei Glove and breaks it off, causing the glove to burst apart in a surge of energy that erupts upward from Uryū's position. With a shocked Mayuri wondering what this is, the swirling energy clears to reveal Uryū standing with the Quincy: Letzt Stil active.
125. Insanity & Genius [ ]
With Uryū Ishida demonstrating the newfound power granted to him by the Quincy: Letzt Stil, 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi decides to respond in kind by activating his Bankai, Konjiki Ashisogi Jizō.
Uryū Ishida recalls Sōken Ishida 's explanation of how the Sanrei Glove works - it has the power to diffuse Reishi at a high level, but holds so much power that most Quincy cannot even produce a Heilig Bogen with it, though one who can produce and maintain a Heilig Bogen with it for seven days and nights will reach the peak of their Quincy powers. However, Uryū also remembers Sōken warning him that he cannot take off the Sanrei Glove once he puts it on because his Reishi-collecting power will be beyond what a Quincy can control, like a strong flame that would harm him as well, and concluding that he would momentarily gain immense power before losing all his Quincy powers.
Having removed his Sanrei Glove and activated the Quincy: Letzt Stil, Uryū stands in a swirling cloud of energy with newly-formed armor over his chest and right leg, a massive flame of Reishi emanating from a jet on his right shoulder, and a new, more mechanical form of his Heilig Bogen, Kojaku. Stunned by Uryū's increased Reiatsu, 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi watches in astonishment as several structures around them begin to disintegrate into Reishi and flow into the Reishi flame on Uryū's back, leading him to realize Uryū is absorbing the buildings, which are made of Reishi, by forcibly breaking the bonds between them and making the Reishi part of his own power. As he concludes that Uryū is bending Reishi to his will, a sweating Mayuri claims that he is exceeding his Human limits.
Suddenly, Uryū holds up his left hand, and upon seeing Reishi redirect from the flame on his back to his palm in several angled lines to create a solid Heilig Pfeil, a shocked Mayuri leaps back, only to find that it is too fast to be dodged when Uryū nocks it in Kojaku and fires it at him. Though Mayuri manages to evade it by leaning back, causing the Heilig Pfeil to hurtle past his head, he discovers Uryū in the air above him as the latter fires another Heilig Pfeil straight down at him, resulting in a large explosion on impact. Landing on the ground near Mayuri, Uryū instructs him to beg for mercy and never appear in front of him again if Mayuri wants to live before promising to fire a Heilig Pfeil that is three times stronger than the last one he fired if Mayuri refuses.
However, with the smoke clearing to reveal he has lost his left arm and cannot see out of his left eye, Mayuri angrily berates Uryū for getting cocky and picks up his Shikai, Ashisogi Jizō, while deciding to return the favor. Mayuri activates his Bankai, Konjiki Ashisogi Jizō, and as Uryū stares in shock, Mayuri's Zanpakutō generates a massive caterpillar-like creature with a baby's head and arms as well as a large halo floating above it that lands on the buildings behind him. As he declares that Uryū's doom is sealed now, Mayuri details how Konjiki Ashisogi Jizō sprays lethal poison made from his blood for a 100-mile radius, and after clarifying that it will not harm him, Mayuri informs Uryū that he will die and claims he would never make a good research subject as Konjiki Ashisogi Jizō sprouts a flurry of blades from its underside. Hearing this, Uryū merely promises to shoot to shoot Mayuri before he can spray the fatal dose while forming another Heilig Pfeil in his hand, prompting Mayuri to invite him to try before sending Konjiki Ashisogi Jizō charging toward Uryū, who draws the Heilig Pfeil back in Kojaku and fires it, resulting in an enormous explosion of energy.
126. The Last of a Void War [ ]
Concluding his battle with 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi, Uryū Ishida receives help from his lieutenant, Nemu Kurotsuchi, and makes his way toward Rukia Kuchiki 's location.
12th Division Lieutenant Nemu Kurotsuchi stares in astonishment as the smoke in front of her clears to reveal her captain, Mayuri Kurotsuchi, standing with a large hole in his abdomen dripping blood on the ground and his hat gone as he pants in exertion. In front of him, Mayuri's Bankai, Konjiki Ashisogi Jizō, having been split in two down the middle, crashes to the ground in front of Uryū Ishida, who stands with both arms bleeding profusely as he sweats. Cursing Uryū, Mayuri raises his shattered Zanpakutō and stabs it through his neck, causing his body to begin bursting apart into liquid. Shocked by this, Uryū wonders if his Zanpakutō has the ability to liquefy anything it cuts, and as Mayuri admits he was close, Uryū realizes he saved this move for his escape and angrily moves to attack him, only for Mayuri to explain that this would be futile because he cannot attack or be attacked in this state. After detailing how he will remain this way for a few days before returning to the Shinigami Research and Development Institute to recover, Mayuri bids Uryū farewell as a tougher opponent than he expected and concludes that the ending of him living and Uryū dying has not changed as the liquid drips out of sight.
Upon coughing up blood as his skin begins discoloring, Uryū observes that the poison from Konjiki Ashisogi Jizō is entering his system and he needs to do something fast. Suddenly, Nemu calls out to Uryū and reveals that he can find an antidote for the poison underneath the lieutenant's badge on her left arm. After retrieving the antidote and helping Nemu sit up, Uryū inquires if she would be more comfortable lying down. When Nemu states that she is fine like this, Uryū asserts that she should lie down, but Nemu promises him that she will be alright because the poison will not harm her due to her blood being the same as Mayuri's. With Uryū hesitating to drink the antidote, Nemu questions if he believes it is a trick and offers to drink some of it first to show him otherwise, only for Uryū to decide that it would be illogical for her to attempt to poison him when he is already poison and drink the antidote.
Nemu thanks Uryū for not killing Mayuri by aiming for his gut rather than his head, and though Uryū claims that it was a fluke and that he shot to kill, Nemu still thanks him and notes that giving him the antidote was the least she could do. As he continues to drink, Uryū inquires why Nemu would want to protect such a father, leading Nemu to admit that she is not sure and explain that she somehow found herself relieved when she discovered that Mayuri had survived. Instructing Uryū to leave after he finishes drinking, Nemu informs him that the other Shinigami will come soon after seeing Konjiki Ashisogi Jizō and promises him that she will be alright because they will tend to her. After setting down the empty antidote flask, Uryū thanks Nemu and bids her farewell before leaving.
Soon afterward, Uryū limps along the ground near the entrance to the Senzaikyū compound and steadies himself against the nearby rocky wall as he mentally observes that his Ransōtengai must be wearing off because he can barely move his limbs. As he concludes that his time as a Quincy is at an end, Uryū wonders if Orihime Inoue is alright and decides that she should have the upper hand due to her Reiatsu being much stronger than Makizō Aramaki 's. Reaching the base of the stairs leading up to the compound, Uryū begins climbing up and mentally asserts that the other Ryoka should be on their way here or will be eventually, meaning that he just has to wait. Uryū decides that he should save Rukia Kuchiki due to getting here first and smiles as he thinks of how mad Ichigo Kurosaki will be if Uryū beats him to it.
However, upon reaching the top of the stairs and entering the compound, Uryū find himself confronted by 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen, who apologizes and states that they must keep the peace before releasing his Shikai, Suzumushi, releasing a high-pitched tone over the surrounding area that knocks Uryū out, causing him to collapse. Shedding a single tear, Tōsen asks Uryū to forgive him and declares that the pointless battles are at an end as he instructs Uryū to sleep because his struggles will be over soon.
Meanwhile, within the Study Chamber inside Sōkyoku Hill, Yoruichi Shihōin stands over Ichigo Kurosaki, who is lying on the ground with a bleeding head wound, and orders him to get up due to still having a long way to go.
127. Beginning of the Death of Tomorrow [ ]
Ichigo Kurosaki begins training to achieve Bankai in three days using Yoruichi Shihōin 's dangerous method.
Standing over a bleeding Ichigo Kurosaki, Yoruichi Shihōin instructs him to get up because there is no time to lose, and as Ichigo struggles to stand up, Zangetsu promises to drag him to his feet if he does not get up on his own as he stands before Ichigo with a variant of his Shikai, Zangetsu, that has spines arcing off the blade.
Twenty-eight minutes earlier, Yoruichi shows Ichigo the Tenshintai. Upon being asked by a confused Ichigo what it is, Yoruichi explains that the Tenshintai is a vital spiritual tool of the Onmitsukidō that can forcibly transfer and externalize a Zanpakutō Spirit. With Ichigo perplexed at the idea of needing this to achieve Bankai, Yoruichi confirms this and elaborates that while the essence of Shikai is communicating and synchronizing with one's Zanpakutō Spirit, Bankai requires externalizing it and forcing it into submission, which means that one must summon their Zanpakutō Spirit to the real world instead of entering their inner world to communicate with it, a move which usually takes ten years of training to perform. However, Yoruichi asserts that she believes Ichigo is ready to externalize Zangetsu after fighting 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki, leading Ichigo to remember Zangetsu appearing before him during that battle. After observing that Ichigo knows what she is referring to, Yoruichi details how Ichigo piercing the Tenshintai with his Shikai, Zangetsu, will force this to happen and how she will use her power to maintain it, but concludes that it can only be done once and lasts for three days, meaning that Ichigo must somehow force Zangetsu to submit in this time.
Ichigo interrupts Yoruichi by stabbing Zangetsu into the Tenshintai and declares that he will not ask her what happens if he fails because he will simply have to do this if it is the only way. As the Tenshintai shatters and Zangetsu disappears, Zangetsu appears next to a surprised Ichigo and notes that he seems to have recovered. Confirming with Zangetsu that he heard the explanation, Yoruichi gives him permission to choose the method of battle and requests that he start immediately, prompting Zangetsu to kneel and place his hand on the ground before manifesting dozens of Zangetsu -like swords in the surrounding area. With Ichigo staring in astonishment, Zangetsu clarifies that only one of these real swords represents the real him and is the only one which can defeat him, meaning Ichigo must find it and use it to defeat Zangetsu before the latter kills him.
In the present, Ichigo leaps back as Zangetsu does the same in the opposite direction, and after grabbing separate swords, the two of them clash fiercely while Yoruichi watches.
Meanwhile, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai incapacitates the guard outside his cell and destroys several of the bars before stepping through as he tells Zabimaru that they are going. Elsewhere, in her cell, 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori places the letter from her captain, Sousuke Aizen, in her shihakushō and looks up with determination. In another cell, a disheveled and bloodied 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira sits with his arms restrained in his damaged and scratched-up cell as he agonizes over having drawn his sword against Hinamori. Berating himself as the absolute worst, Izuru hears rustling and demands to know who is there, only to be stunned when his captain, Gin Ichimaru, approaches and expresses sympathy over how tired he looks before grasping one of his cell's bars and offering to take Izuru with him.
128. The Great Joint Struggle Union [ ]
While Ichigo Kurosaki continues battling Zangetsu to attain Bankai, his friends assess their different situations across the Seireitei.
As he stands before 4th Division Captain Retsu Unohana alongside his fellow 13th Division 3rd Seat, Kiyone Kotetsu, Sentarō Kotsubaki loudly relays the request of his captain, Jūshirō Ukitake, for her to show leniency toward 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada as his arresting officer due to how he was coerced physically and mentally in following the orders of the Ryoka while in their custody. However, though she acknowledges this, Unohana observes that the Ryoka whom Hanatarō assisted caused serious damage and his complicity in this cannot be overlooked given his position before inquiring if Hanatarō understands as the latter stands before her.
Meanwhile, in the Fourth Division's Sōgō Kyūgo Tsumesho, a handcuffed Uryū Ishida wakes up on a cot in the 75th underground relief cell and wonders where he is while realizing that he is still alive. Suddenly, a heavily bandaged Ganju Shiba looks over the side of the cot above Uryū's and greets him, only for Uryū to scream in confusion upon seeing Ganju's completely bandaged face. With a shocked Uryū demanding to know if he is a burglar, Ganju leaps down from his cot and questions what he would steal from an invalid in a jail cell as he lifts his bandages to expose his eyes and mouth so Uryū knows who he is. Relieved to learn that it is Ganju, Uryū admits that he was worried about the former because he did not seem very strong, prompting an annoyed Ganju to claim that he felt the same way about Uryū.
When Uryū asks Ganju why the Shinigami would treat their injuries when the Ryoka are intruders and their enemies, Yasutora Sado reveals that there has been a new development, and as Uryū looks over to see him sitting nearby, Sado details how he heard the guards discussing the murder of one of the Gotei 13 captains inside the Seireitei, which leaves them as prime suspects for being Ryoka. As Uryū concludes that they are being kept alive for questioning, Ganju affirms this and notes that he could get them out of here with Seppa were it not for his handcuffs being made of Reiryoku -sealing Sekkiseki. Uryū looks down at his handcuffs and mentally observes that even without his handcuffs, he would not have access to his powers anymore. Despite this, Ganju points out that their friends are probably still alive if the enemy does not want them dead, prompting Sado to state that Orihime Inoue has probably been captured as well due to her lack of combat skills if they are in here, which leaves Ichigo Kurosaki and Yoruichi Shihōin. Asserting that he is going to wait for Ichigo because the latter will definitely come here, Sado tells Ganju and Uryū that all they can do until then is recover from their injuries and prepare for the next fight.
Within the Study Chamber inside Sōkyoku Hill, the last sword Ichigo picked up during his training to achieve Bankai is shattered by the sword Zangetsu is wielding, sending Ichigo skidding back with a broken hilt in his hand. Cursing this, Ichigo throws the hilt away as Zangetsu notes that this is the eighteenth sword Ichigo has gone through and chases after Ichigo when the latter leaps away. Upon seeing a sword identical to his Shikai, Zangetsu, embedded in the ground nearby, Ichigo moves to it and pulls it out while claiming that only the real Zangetsu would be shaped like this. However, Zangetsu shatters it with his bare hand when Ichigo swings it at him, and as Ichigo stares in stunned silence, Zangetsu proclaims that this was feeble before slashing Ichigo across the chest with his own sword. Zangetsu reminds Ichigo that all of the blades embedded in the ground here are pieces of his spirit, with this being a test to find the piece made for fighting, and that the sword he just broke was a piece of Ichigo's fragile spirit trying to rely on Zangetsu, leading him to assert that Ichigo should not even speak of Bankai until he can tell the difference. With Zangetsu ordering him to try again because he does not have time to be resting on his knees, Ichigo picks up another sword and declares that he knows this as Yoruichi watches from afar.
Elsewhere, in the Eleventh Division barracks, Makizō Aramaki proclaims his happiness at being unexpectedly picked up by Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi, who sits against the wall nearby as she explains how Orihime's Reiatsu was similar to Ichigo's due to them both being Ryoka and how she simply found Aramaki nearby when she went to investigate. With Yachiru struggling to remember his name, Aramaki introduces himself as Maki-Maki and comments on how it has already been ten years since he joined the division, only to be shocked when Yachiru calls this a silly name because she gave it to him herself. While Orihime sits on a chair nearby, 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame lounges on a couch against the far wall and inquires if she thinks Ichigo is still alive while 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa chews his thumbnail over Orihime's beauty, though Orihime admits that she is not sure. Telling Ikkaku to not ask stupid questions, his heavily bandaged captain, Kenpachi Zaraki, claims that he knows Ichigo is alive and trying to get even stronger, which sounds like fun to him, and sits in front of Orihime as he promises to help her because he has a feeling that he will see Ichigo again if he sticks with her.
129. Suspicion [for Assassination] [ ]
10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya and his lieutenant, Rangiku Matsumoto, learn of 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori 's escape while Ichigo Kurosaki 's skill level rapidly progresses in his training to achieve Bankai.
In the past, a young, bruised, and barely conscious Rangiku Matsumoto is approached by a young Gin Ichimaru as she lies on the ground. Offering Rangiku one of the dried persimmons that he is carrying, Gin observes that her passing out from hunger must mean she has Reiryoku as well, and when Rangiku picks up on his phrasing, Gin reveals that he has Reiryoku as well and introduces himself, prompting Rangiku to comment on how strange his first name is.
In the present, Rangiku wakes up on a couch in the office of her captain, Tōshirō Hitsugaya, who asks her if she is awake as he sits behind his desk nearby. Upon being asked by Rangiku what he is doing in her room, an irritated Hitsugaya points out that this is the office and not her room before instructing her to take over for him if she is awake. Walking over to Hitsugaya's desk, Rangiku points out that it is his fault for taking on the Fifth Division 's work, but is surprised when Hitsugaya hands her only a few sheets of paper and tells her to go to her own desk with them. Rangiku questions if this is really all that is left since there were multiple stacks of paper when she last checked and notes that she must have slept for a long time while Hitsugaya brushes this off and begins to drink from his cup. As he notices Rangiku's tone, Hitsugaya tells her she does not have to do the paperwork because it must have been hard to see her classmate Gin and 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori like that. After repeating Hitsugaya's description of Gin as her classmate, Rangiku inquires if he really believes Gin killed Hinamori's captain, Sousuke Aizen. Suddenly, 10th Division 7th Seat Kōkichirō Takezoe announces his presence from outside the door to the office, and after Hitsugaya confirms that he and Rangiku are present and orders him to come in, a kneeling Kōkichirō slides open the door and apologizes for interrupting before revealing the prison guards have reported that 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai, 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira, and Hinamori are missing from their cells.
Meanwhile, within the Study Chamber inside Sōkyoku Hill, half of a broken Zangetsu -like sword embeds itself in the ground as a wounded Ichigo Kurosaki skids to a halt with the remainder of the sword in hand while his blood spatters on the rock behind him. Watching from above, Yoruichi Shihōin observes that he is still holding his stance even after his sword is broken, and as Zangetsu notes that this makes fifty-one broken swords, Ichigo tosses away the broken sword and pulls a serrated one out of the ground next to him before rushing toward Zangetsu, who swings his hooked sword horizontally at Ichigo. Though he initially blocks perpendicularly with his own sword, Ichigo tilts his blade toward himself and ducks to allow Zangetsu's sword to swing over him, and with a surprised Zangetsu completing his swing, Ichigo stabs his own sword at him, only for Zangetsu to leap high into the air before the strike reaches him, leaving Ichigo to shatter the rock behind where he was standing.
With Ichigo looking up in shock, Zangetsu throws his own sword directly downward, shattering Ichigo's sword on impact and sending a large chunk of the blade flying away. Zangetsu appears in front of a stunned Ichigo and backhands him into a rock several meters away as he admonishes Ichigo for taking his eyes off the enemy and notes that this makes fifty-two broken swords. While a smiling Ichigo admits that he thought he finally had Zangetsu, Yoruichi mentally details how Ichigo deflected Zangetsu's initial attack at the point of contact by matching the speed of his own sword with that of his opponent before instantly going on the offensive. Observing that Ichigo has come a long way from relying solely on Zangetsu's strength and is now learning at a frightening pace and level, Yoruichi mentally tells Kisuke Urahara that he was right about Ichigo.
Simultaneously, outside the jail cell where Hinamori was being kept, the guard that was on duty bows before Hitsugaya and Rangiku as he recounts how everything went white for him after he turned around in response to Hinamori calling for him, with her being gone when he woke up. As the guard declares that this was simply inexcusable, Hitsugaya notes that Hinamori must have used Hakufuku and explains to the confused guard how Hinamori is a master of Kidō whose powers they should have sealed if they were serious about imprisoning her, though they did not do so because no one thought she would go this far. Standing next to the giant hole in the cell bars and wall behind them, Rangiku questions why Hinamori would do this when she was not facing execution, but Hitsugaya asserts that there is only one reason and orders Rangiku to go back without him as he grips the handle of his Zanpakutō and proclaims that he is going to rescue Hinamori.
Elsewhere, Hinamori runs along a walkway with Aizen's letter in her hand and mentally admits that she could not believe her eyes when she read it, to the point of not believing the letter itself for a time, but concludes that it is true after all as she states that " he " killed Aizen.
130. Suspicion2 [of Tears] [ ]
While Ichigo Kurosaki finishes his first day of training to achieve Bankai, 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya confronts 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru over his suspicious actions.
Within the Study Chamber inside Sōkyoku Hill, Ichigo Kurosaki wields a scimitar -like sword clashes fiercely and repeatedly with Zangetsu, who wields a jagged sword, and as Yoruichi Shihōin watches from above, Ichigo and Zangetsu are sent flying apart by the force of their clash, prompting Yoruichi to observe that Ichigo has been fighting for more than five minutes with the same sword without it breaking, though she begins sweating and notes that it could be near its limit while the loop of cord in her hand glows with Reiryoku. With Ichigo declaring that he is not done yet and rushing toward him, Zangetsu moves to attack, only to disappear and send his sword flying as the Tenshintai he was inhabiting returns to its normal state, leaving Ichigo speechless in confusion. Landing behind Ichigo, Yoruichi tells him drop his sword because the first day is over as she undoes her ponytail.
Shortly afterward, a naked Ichigo relaxes in a hot spring behind a rock in the training area and admits that he had no idea it was here while realizing that he has never been in one before. After observing that it must be nighttime if the first day of training is over, Ichigo states that he can feel his joints creaking and that his sense of time is messed up down here as he splashes water on his face. Suddenly, Ichigo finds the scratch on his face rapidly healing upon coming in contact with the water, leading him to express awe and excitement at his discovery of how the hot spring actually heals his wounds rather than simply removing the pain. As Ichigo slurps some of the water into his mouth in an attempt to heal the cut inside, Yoruichi approaches from behind and inquires how the water is, though Ichigo can only wave and mumble his praise due to his mouth being full. Acknowledging this, Yoruichi decides to have a soak as well and begins removing her pants, prompting Ichigo to spit out the water in his mouth in shock.
With Ichigo spluttering over this and questioning why she is taking her pants off first, Yoruichi chuckles and reveals that she knew he would react like this, to his irritation. After transforming back into a cat, Yoruichi enters the hot spring and notes that this form should not upset Ichigo before teasingly wondering if he is disappointed by this as an annoyed Ichigo claims he is going to drown her. Ichigo looks around the area and brings up how similar it looks to the Study Chamber underneath the Urahara Shop in the Human World, prompting Yoruichi to affirm this and reveal that Study Room was modeled on this place. While Ichigo expresses his surprise at this, Yoruichi elaborates that this was originally her and Kisuke Urahara 's secret playground which they built deep underneath the Sōkyoku. Though Ichigo is incredulous at the idea of secret constructing such an area, Yoruichi merely asserts that Urahara always had a talent for mischief before recalling how they played here every day as children and proceeded to train here together after he joined the Gotei 13 and she joined the Onmitsukidō.
Astonished by this, Ichigo demands to know if this means Urahara was a Shinigami and realizes that this lines up with how much he knows about Soul Society, him having a Zanpakutō, and some of the people Ichigo has met reacting strangely to the mention of his name. With Ichigo questioning what exactly he is, Yoruichi sighs and notes that she should have known Urahara would not tell him everything before deciding that there is no reason to keep it from Ichigo now that they have come this far as she informs Ichigo that Urahara was the former captain of the Twelfth Division, as well as the founder and first President of the Shinigami Research and Development Institute.
Elsewhere, 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru strolls along a walkway in the Third Division compound with his lieutenant, Izuru Kira, following him. Suddenly, 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya appears before them on a platform connected to the walkway and states that he knew he would find them here because only Izuru's cell was opened from the outside as he admonishes Gin for not covering his tracks very well. However, Gin asserts that he did this on purpose so Hitsugaya would know, and as he admits that he is glad to have gotten here before 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori did, Hitsugaya grips the handle of his Zanpakutō and declares that he is going to kill Gin before she arrives, only to be interrupted when Hinamori lands on the platform between the two of them.
While Hitsugaya is surprised by her arrival, Hinamori states that she has finally found him and notes that this is where he was as she stands up and begins drawing her Zanpakutō. Warning Hinamori to stay back while he deals with Gin because he is too strong, Hitsugaya is stunned to find Hinamori leveling her Zanpakutō next to his neck as she declares that this is for her captain, Sousuke Aizen, while Gin smiles behind her.
Bleach, Volume 16
131. The True Will [ ]
10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya is forced to defend himself from 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori after the latter reveal that he was implicated in the letter left by her captain, Sousuke Aizen.
Sousuke Aizen 's letter recounts his findings: believing that he is most likely dead if this is being read, Aizen entrusts the truth of what he has discovered to the one whom he trusts the most, his lieutenant, Momo Hinamori, and reveals that his investigation led him to conclude that the goal of Rukia Kuchiki 's execution and its constantly-changing date is not to kill Rukia herself, but instead to steal the Sōkyoku, whose seal is only removed for executions and which has the power of one million Zanpakutō in its blade, while the execution stand itself has the power to withstand an equal number of Zanpakutō. Noting that the power of the Sōkyoku momentarily increases by several dozen times when executing a Shinigami, Aizen's letter asserts that the one who plotted Rukia's execution intends to destroy the entirety of Soul Society in addition to the Seireitei with the Sōkyoku and that this person is 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya.
As a tearful Hinamori levels her blade at his face and finishes recounting this, Hitsugaya is left stunned by Aizen's letter saying this, and after affirming this, Hinamori elaborates that Aizen also said he called Hitsugaya out to the East Holy Wall that night in an effort to foil his plans and that he was prepared to cross blades with Hitsugaya if he did not back down, but requested that Hinamori kill Hitsugaya in his stead if he should be killed. A trembling Hinamori concludes that this was Aizen's last wish, asked of her as a man rather than her captain, and screams as she attacks Hitsugaya, creating a large explosion of force on impact. Sent skidding back by this, Hitsugaya questions if Hinamori is crazy and points out how Aizen was not the type of man to start a fight he could not win or the sort of coward who would make his subordinates clean up his mess. Despite this, Hinamori declares that this is what the letter said and that she did not misread it before slashing at Hitsugaya while clarifying that the letter was written in Aizen's handwriting, further stunning him as he narrowly dodges.
Continuing to attack Hitsugaya, Hinamori promises that she did not want to believe this and had no choice because it was Aizen's last wish, only to admit that she does not know what to think anymore while openly weeping, to Hitsugaya's astonishment. After leaping into the air to avoid Hinamori's subsequent attack that craters the ground where he was standing, Hitsugaya observes that she is too upset to think straight and concludes that someone must have forged the letter so he and Hinamori would kill each other because Aizen would never write it. Upon looking down to see 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru grinning up at him, Hitsugaya angrily accuses him of engineering this as well and falls toward him while preparing to draw his Zanpakutō, but finds himself confronted by Hinamori in midair. With Hinamori stabbing at him, Hitsugaya realizes that he cannot dodge her in midair and is forced to knock her out with a blow to the head, leaving her to slam into the platform below.
After landing, Hitsugaya calls out to Hinamori and is shocked upon seeing her unconscious body. When Gin approaches and admonishes him for hitting Hinamori so hard, Hitsugaya recalls the former's enigmatic exchange with Aizen after the intruder alarm was sounded and inquires what Gin is planning as he remembers Gin claiming that Aizen would not hear the ringing of the alarm ever again after that day. Hitsugaya asserts that Gin had to make Hinamori suffer because Aizen was not enough for him and points out how Hinamori's hands are bleeding from how hard she was gripping the handle of her Zanpakutō. Though Gin expresses confusion at what he is talking about, Hitsugaya reminds Gin of his promise to kill the latter if he ever made Hinamori bleed and furiously rips his Zanpakutō out of his sheath, prompting Gin to sigh and assert that he will be forced to stop Hitsugaya if he draws his blade here while gripping the handle of his own Zanpakutō.
132. Creeping Limit [ ]
While the battle between 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya and 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru concludes, Yoruichi Shihōin questions whether she should extend Ichigo Kurosaki 's Bankai training.
With his captain, Gin Ichimaru, and 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya facing each other while exerting their Reiatsu, 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira nervously addresses Gin, only for the latter to warn him to stay back if he does not want to die yet. Declaring that this is not good enough, Hitsugaya instructs a stunned Izuru to disappear and keep going even after he can no longer see them because there is no guarantee that Hitsugaya will not end up killing him if he is within three ri of the fight. After leaping into the air above Gin, Hitsugaya releases his Shikai, Hyōrinmaru, adding a long chain to his Zanpakutō's handle and creating a massive dragon out of water and ice that swirls around him as the moon is covered by storm clouds. As he watches this from below, Izuru notes with shock that this is his first time seeing Hitsugaya's Zanpakutō, which is considered the strongest water-ice-type Zanpakutō in all of Soul Society, and observes that it can even control the weather.
Hitsugaya sends the dragon crashing into Gin onto the platform below, causing it to burst into a torrent of water on impact, and as he leaps out of the splash radius while mentally admitting that he could not dodge it in time, Izuru is astonished to find his soaked arm freezing solid and screams in terror. Above, Gin moves to the roof of the nearby building and finds Hitsugaya sending another wave of ice toward him with a slash of Hyōrinmaru and slashes through the wave with his Zanpakutō, only to suddenly find his left arm frozen and bound by the chain on the end of Hyōrinmaru while Hitsugaya stands behind him. Though Hitsugaya declares that it is over, Gin releases his own Shikai, Shinsō, which extends through his haori toward Hitsugaya's eye. With Hitsugaya barely evading in time by falling onto his back, Gin questions if he really wishes to dodge it because 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori will die, leading Hitsugaya to realize that Shinsō is hurtling toward Hinamori's unconscious body nearby.
Suddenly, 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto appears in front of Hinamori and blocks Shinsō with the broad side of her Zanpakutō, shocking those present, before explaining that she came back after heading to the barracks because she sensed the Reiatsu of Hyōrinmaru. Upon being requested by Rangiku to withdraw his sword or deal with her directly, Gin merely smiles as his frozen arm begins to bleed.
As dawn breaks, Yoruichi Shihōin sits on the edge of Sōkyoku Hill and observes that they have two days left for Ichigo Kurosaki to achieve Bankai. Admitting that Ichigo has improved rapidly compared to the average Shinigami, Yoruichi mentally clarifies that this only applies to his combat skills and that his Reiryoku has not increased much at all while Ichigo finishes warming up in the Study Chamber below and looks around for Yoruichi so they can continue training. Unsure if Ichigo can truly achieve Bankai in just two more days, Yoruichi wonders if she should extend his training and recalls how they learned the delay for Rukia Kuchiki 's execution was cut from thirty days to twenty-five, which would have left them with only one day to save Rukia after the three days of Bankai training had their encounter with the Kōtotsu in the Dangai not sent them back in time seven days when they arrived in Soul Society, giving them eight days to spare after the three days of training.
Despite extending Ichigo's training being more than possible, Yoruichi remains uncertain because no one other than Kisuke Urahara has achieved Bankai this way, with Urahara having developed the method and taking three days to achieve Bankai with it while believing that any longer would prove dangerous. Remembering Urahara assuring her that Ichigo's gifts are greater than his own are, Yoruichi admits that she is not sure if Ichigo's Soul can withstand the extra days of training and decides to risk it if there is no change in his Reiryoku after today's training.
Meanwhile, inside the Shishinrō within Senzaikyū, Rukia is stunned by the information she has just received, and as he stands before her with six of his comrades, a member of the Kidō Corps reiterates that her execution date has been changed once again to tomorrow.
133. memories in the rain2 "the nocturne" [ ]
With others reacting to the change in her execution date, Rukia Kuchiki recalls the dream she had about the night she would never forget.
Standing alongside his lieutenant, Rangiku Matsumoto, in front of 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori as she lies unconscious in a bed with medical equipment hooked up to her in their barracks, 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya thanks Rangiku for arriving when she did because Hinamori would be dead had she not, though Rangiku downplays this.
In the past, with Rangiku having blocked his attempted attack on Hinamori with her Zanpakutō, 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru retracts his Shikai, Shinsō, leaving Rangiku trembling as she holds her cracked sword. When Gin prepares to leave, Hitsugaya demands that he stop, prompting Gin to assert that Hitsugaya should see to Hinamori rather than chase him before disappearing with Shunpo.
In the present, Rangiku notes that Gin's bad habit of leaving without telling her where he is going has not changed from when he was a child and wonders where he is trying to go. Beside her, Hitsugaya ponders how much of 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen 's letter to Hinamori was fabricated and if the plot to destroy Soul Society with the released power of the Sōkyoku during Rukia Kuchiki 's execution is actually Gin's plan. Suddenly, the two of them are approached by a Jigokuchō, which relays the Central 46 's decision to make a final change to the date of Rukia's execution by having the sentence carried out twenty-nine hours from now with no further changes, to Hitsugaya and Rangiku's shock. Upon seeing Hitsugaya briskly walking off, Rangiku calls out to him, only to be informed that she and Hitsugaya are going to stop the execution because Gin cannot be allowed to succeed if the execution and the release of the Sōkyoku are part of his plan.
Meanwhile, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai arrives at the base of Sōkyoku Hill and observes that it is definitely Ichigo Kurosaki 's Reiatsu that he is sensing. Within the Study Chamber inside Sōkyoku Hill, Ichigo clashes fiercely with Zangetsu as he continues his Bankai training. Watching from afar, Yoruichi Shihōin questions why she feels so uneasy despite Ichigo's steady development, and as Ichigo continues to attack Zangetsu, Yoruichi describes the sensation she is experiencing as feeling like something ominous is approaching. However, Ichigo is visibly startled when the entrance at the top of the ladder leading into the Study Chamber is destroyed by an explosion of force. As he states that he was wondering what Ichigo was doing down here and inquires if Zangetsu is his Zanpakutō Spirit, Renji crashes down onto the ground near Ichigo and notes that Ichigo seems to be having fun training to achieve Bankai in secret before inquiring if he can join while holding his Shikai, Zabimaru, over his shoulder, surprising Ichigo with his presence.
Renji predicts that Ichigo is wondering why he is here and explains that he simply needs a place to focus on training now that there is not much time left. With Ichigo questioning what this means, Renji realizes that he should clarify this and reveals that the time of Rukia's execution has been changed once more to noon tomorrow, stunning those present. Admitting that he is not strong enough to save Rukia yet and this is why he is here, Renji walks to the other side of the Study Chamber and promises to not interfere with Ichigo's training because he already knows how to manifest his Zanpakutō Spirit before asserting that he will be training over here as Zabimaru appears next to him. Though Yoruichi nervously claims that there is no way Ichigo can master Bankai by noon tomorrow, she is interrupted by Ichigo smashing most of the sword he is holding and declaring that she does not get to give up when this training was her idea, and when Yoruichi attempts to remind him of what will happen should he not achieve Bankai by tomorrow, Ichigo states that he does not want to hear about what happens if he cannot and proclaims that tomorrow being the target date means he will just have to achieve Bankai today while smashing the remainder of the sword against his palm, to Renji's approval.
During this, in the Shishinrō within Senzaikyū, Rukia lies on the floor and stares at the ceiling as she decides to ask the Gotei 13 to return Ichigo and the others safely to the Human World before she is executed tomorrow since her being part of the Kuchiki Clan means they might honor her request. Recalling how she was shocked to learn of the changed date earlier, Rukia mentally notes that she was not sad and attributes this to the dream she had last night about the night she would never forget.
In the past, Rukia clutches a bleeding 13th Division Lieutenant Kaien Shiba and screams his name.
134. memories in the rain2 op.2 "Longing For Sanctuary" [ ]
Having just joined the Thirteenth Division, Rukia Kuchiki is introduced to its lieutenant, Kaien Shiba, and begins bonding with him.
As he runs up to 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki on a walkway, 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake claims that they have a problem and attempts to inform him of the change in Rukia Kuchiki 's execution date, only for Byakuya to inform Ukitake that he was informed of this by a Jigokuchō a short while ago. Though Ukitake is initially relieved by this, he is stunned when Byakuya questions why this matters and asserts that he accepts the decision to change the execution to tomorrow. With Byakuya instructing Ukitake to not bother him with such petty matters and attempting to walk away, Ukitake grabs him by the shoulder and angrily calls him heartless while demanding to know if his sister being executed tomorrow means anything to him, causing him to break into a coughing fit out of exertion. Telling Ukitake to calm down because he will shorten his lifespan, Byakuya asserts that two or three more of his subordinates dying should not make a difference after he let one of them die already and walks off while warning Ukitake to not do anything foolish because Rukia living or dying should not be his concern due to her being part of Byakuya's family. While watching Byakuya depart, Ukitake wonders what his former lieutenant, Kaien Shiba, would have done in this situation and questions if the latter would have kicked Byakuya a few times or tried to save Rukia even though the dissent of a single captain would not sway the Central 46. However, Ukitake concludes that Kaien would not have done either of these things since he always chose the path of greatest peril.
In the past, having joined the Thirteenth Division, Rukia stands in a room after being instructed to wait for the lieutenant to arrive shortly. Addressing a nearby Shinigami, who responds nervously, Rukia requests that he treat her just like anyone else because she is a new recruit, but the Shinigami mentally asserts that he would not dream of this as he pretends to comply. Watching from behind a nearby set of sliding doors, other Shinigami identify Rukia as a member of the Kuchiki Clan and scoff at her being a pet while dismissing her joining the division due to having been exempt from both the graduation and enlistment exams, to their chagrin. With a somber Rukia mentally observing that it is the same here after all, Kaien demands that the other Shinigami stop gawking and get back to their posts before opening the doors and firmly greeting Rukia, who is left slightly stunned by his arrival as she greets him in return.
Annoyed by Rukia's meek response, Kaien grabs the top of her head and demands that she greet him more formally due to his rank of lieutenant, and after telling him her name, a startled Rukia sweats heavily as she properly greets him, leading Kaien to smile and declare that she is okay. While Kaien welcomes her to the Thirteenth Division and explains how it is fine to accidentally call him "Captain" because he oversees the officers due to their captain being in poor health, a frazzled Rukia promises to keep this in mind and notes that this kind of normal relationship between superior and subordinate was exactly what she was looking for. That night, Rukia kneels behind Byakuya in his chambers and reports that her entrance ceremony went smoothly. However, when Byakuya inquires what seated rank she acquired, Rukia nervously apologizes and begins to detail how her abilities were not sufficient enough for a seated rank, prompting Byakuya to acknowledge this and instruct her to leave.
Later, at a party for the division, Kaien leans over a sitting Rukia near a tree and questions why she looks so sad, startling her. After observing that she reacts with fright every time she sees him and claiming that this hurts his feelings, Kaien gives Rukia a canned drink and sits next to her as he drinks out of his own. As he notes that Rukia probably will not tell him what is bothering her, Kaien tells her to not forget that he is her friend for life as long as she is in the Thirteenth Division. Before a touched Rukia can respond, Sentarō Kotsubaki and Kiyone Kotetsu pop up behind her while visibly intoxicated and begin teasing her and Kaien for bonding like this, to Kaien's astonishment. With Sentarō encouraging Rukia to not worry about the other Shinigami giving her a hard time because they did the same to him when he joined due to being from the Rukongai, an irritated Kaien declares that the party is over and orders the Shinigami to begin preparing for their next mission, leaving Rukia to close her eyes and think about how nice it feels to be around Kaien.
Rukia details how Kaien had a wife who was wise, kind, and beautiful despite being powerful enough to hold the rank of 3rd Seat, and as she watches her and Kaien talk from afar, Rukia admits that she wanted to be just like Kaien's wife. Some time later, a mortified Kaien stands in front of his wife's remains lying on a bed while Ukitake informs him that her unit was annihilated. With a shocked Rukia standing behind Kaien, Ukitake explains that that they barely know anything about the Hollow who did this due to none of the Shinigami it attacked escaping and promises to go after it in two days once they have assembled a combat unit, only to be interrupted when Kaien attempts to depart. As Ukitake tells him to wait and reminds him that they do not know anything about the enemy, Kaien claims to know all that he needs to know and that he does not care about the Hollow's abilities before demanding to know if Ukitake expects him to sit here and do nothing while the combat unit handles this. Ukitake clarifies that they know the Hollow nests in one place to hunt for prey instead of migrating and that they know where the nest is.
That night, Rukia, Ukitake, and Kaien stand on a tree branch outside a cave, where Metastacia wanders out and asserts that he can smell prey before laughing wildly.
135. memories in the rain2 op.3 "Affected By the Night" [ ]
13th Division Lieutenant Kaien Shiba battles Metastacia to avenge his dead wife while his captain, Jūshirō Ukitake, explains to Rukia Kuchiki why they should not interfere.
As she stands above Metastacia on a tree branch alongside her captain, Jūshirō Ukitake, and his lieutenant, Kaien Shiba, Rukia Kuchiki grips her Zanpakutō 's handle and tells Kaien that she will go first, but Kaien requests that Ukitake let him go alone, to her shock. With Ukitake permitting this, Kaien leaps onto the ground in front of Metastacia, who expresses delight at him going first. Noting that he has to ask Metastacia something before they fight, Kaien inquires how many Shinigami he has eaten, and as Metastacia admits that he does not recall, Kaien questions if he has ever regretted it, prompting Metastacia to call this a stupid question and assert that he has feelings just like Kaien before claiming that there is not a single night where he does not regret eating Shinigami, only to clarify that right now he is regretting not eating the rest of the female Shinigami whom he fought last night while laughing maniacally.
Kaien solemnly acknowledges this and draws his Zanpakutō as he exerts his Reiatsu, leading Metastacia to mentally urge him to come over so he can eat Kaien as well. Suddenly, Metastacia finds two of his left arms severed in a spray of blood while Kaien grabs one of his tentacles and stands on his back. Though surprised by Kaien's speed, Metastacia gleefully observes that the former touched him. Attempting to release his Shikai, Nejibana, Kaien is shocked to find his Zanpakutō shattering while Metastacia reveals that the first Shinigami to touch his tentacles each night has their Zanpakutō destroyed. Stunned by this, Kaien is slashed by one of Metastacia's tentacles and wonders how he could have such a power before being sent hurtling away. Frantically calling out to Kaien, Rukia attempts to draw her Zanpakutō and leap down to help him, but is stopped by Ukitake. With Rukia telling him to let her go so they can save Kaien, Ukitake inquires what she thinks will happen to Kaien's pride if she does this and elaborates that aiding Kaien now will kill his pride forever even if they saved his life. Despite Rukia asserting that pride is meaningless compared to life as Metastacia continues to attack Kaien, Ukitake explains that there are two types of battles and one must know whether each battle they fight is one to protect life or to defend honor.
As a stunned Rukia sees him sweating in concern while Kaien rips off one of Metastacia's tentacles, Ukitake details how Kaien is fighting for the honor of his men, his wife, and himself above all else before concluding that Rukia should let him fight this battle alone even if she thinks of it as foolish pride, prompting a distressed Rukia to remove her hand from her Zanpakutō. Down on the ground, Metastacia praises Kaien for surviving this long without a Zanpakutō, and when Kaien asserts that his Kidō is more than sufficient for this fight, Metastacia criticizes him as arrogant and bemoans having to do this again today, only to claim that he has no choice with Kaien insulting him like this before discharging the tentacles on his back toward a shocked Kaien. While Rukia calls out to Kaien in concern, the tentacles enter Kaien's outstretched arm at the wrist and funnel into his veins, leaving the remainder of Metastacia's body to fall apart, and Metastacia assumes control of Kaien's body, causing his eyes to turn black, his skin to turn green, and his face to gain the markings of Metastacia's mask as Metastacia menacingly asks a frightened Rukia if she called his name.
136. memories in the rain2 op.4 "night of wijnruit" [ ]
With Metastacia having become inseparable from 13th Division Lieutenant Kaien Shiba after fusing with him, Rukia Kuchiki is forced to kill him.
With Rukia Kuchiki nervously calling out to 13th Division Lieutenant Kaien Shiba, Metastacia, who has taken control of Kaien's body, questions why she keeps calling Kaien's name like this and inquires if she is worried about him because he is dear to her while looking at Rukia with his pitch-black eyes. As Rukia reels back in fright, Metastacia leaps up to her and declares that he will eat her first if this is the case, only for 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake to appear between them and intercept Metastacia's bite with his Zanpakutō. Upon being ordered by Ukitake to get out of here if she does not want to die, Rukia frantically leaps away from the tree branch and tearfully wonders why this is happening.
Behind her, Ukitake pursues Metastacia, who wonders why he is not attacking and theorizes that Ukitake is trying to think of a way to drag him out of Kaien's body, only to proclaim that this is pointless before revealing that, due to both him and Kaien being spiritual entities, this is a complete fusion and one they cannot be separated from, unlike Human possession. However, while Metastacia proclaims that he will spend all night devouring Kaien's Soul from the inside, he is interrupted when Ukitake slashes through the side of his neck, leaving him stunned. When Ukitake calmly asserts that he will simply kill Kaien along with Metastacia if this is true, Metastacia is shocked that he would kill his subordinate with his own hands, which Ukitake confirms as he declares that he will not allow Metastacia to have Kaien's body. Suddenly, Ukitake coughs up blood and curses this happening at such a time, prompting Metastacia to leap forward and attack him with tentacles emerging from Kaien's arm.
Despite this, Metastacia merely wounds Ukitake and leaps past him, leaving a confused Ukitake to see Rukia standing in the woods behind him and demand to know why she came back. With Rukia mentally admitting that she had no plan when she came back and simply knew that she could not run away without saving Kaien as Metastacia hurtles toward her, Ukitake orders her to kill him because he is not Kaien anymore, and as she sees tentacles emerging from Kaien's mouth and right eye, Rukia lifts up her Zanpakutō, causing Metastacia to impale himself on it. As rain begins to fall around them, Kaien regains control of his body and thanks Ukitake for letting him fight while the latter approaches from behind. When a stunned Rukia addresses him, Kaien apologizes for getting her into this mess and hugs her as he observes that she must have been scared. Kaien thanks Rukia for doing this so he can leave his heart behind, and as Kaien's hand falls from her back and begins to disintegrate, Rukia wails in sorrow and mentally asserts that there is nothing to thank her for, with her running away because she was afraid to fight him, coming back because she could not stand her own cowardice, and using her sword because she could not bear to see him suffer, concluding that she did it all for herself and that she is pathetic.
In the present, Rukia lies in the Shishinrō within Senzaikyū and somberly states that she is not worth saving or shedding blood over.
137. Surrounding Clutch [ ]
As the day of Rukia Kuchiki 's execution arrives, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki breaks Yasutora Sado, Uryū Ishida, and Ganju Shiba out of prison while 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai concludes his training and Ichigo Kurosaki continues his own.
On the morning of Rukia Kuchiki 's execution, 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya and 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru move out alongside their respective lieutenants, Rangiku Matsumoto and Izuru Kira, while four members of the Kidō Corps prepare to transport Rukia as she emerges from the Shishinrō within Senzaikyū.
In one of the streets of the Seireitei, two Eleventh Division Shinigami holding brooms lean against opposite walls. When one of them bemoans how terrible he feels and assumes that this is the result of all the alcohol he drank last night, the other, older Shinigami asserts that it was actually all the tobacco he smoked that is causing this. Annoyed by this, the younger Shinigami warns the older one to not mess with him just because he was beaten yesterday, and when the younger Shinigami threatens to kill him, the older Shinigami tosses aside his broom and grips his Zanpakutō while promising to beat him before he cleans the street, prompting the younger Shinigami to grip his own Zanpakutō as he claims that sweeping is all the older Shinigami is good for. Suddenly, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki makes a hard left turn into the street while carrying Orihime Inoue and his lieutenant, Yachiru Kusajishi, on his back, which leads the frightened Shinigami to frantically greet him and claim that it is an honor to be sweeping the street, only for Kenpachi to ignore them as he rushes by.
With 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame lecturing them for not even looking like they are working, 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa threatening to kill them if he finds even one speck of dust later, and Makizō Aramaki encouraging them to do their best as they all follow behind Kenpachi, the two Shinigami are left confused by what Aramaki is doing with Kenpachi and the two girls who were on Kenpachi's shoulders. Up ahead, Kenpachi asks Orihime which way they should go as he continues to run through the Seireitei, but when she attempts to direct him, Orihime is headbutted by Yachiru, who points in the opposite direction and asserts that they should go this way. With Orihime expressing pain at this and Yachiru claiming that Kenpachi thinks they should go that way as well, Ikkaku suggests that Yachiru let Orihime lead because her sense of direction is terrible, prompting Yachiru to spit on his head and tell him to shut up while making fun of his baldness. Seeing an angered Ikkaku unsheathing his Zanpakutō, Yumichika instructs him to put it away because he started the squabble while Kenpachi decides to trust his own instincts, to Yachiru's delight.
Meanwhile, within the 75th underground relief cell of the Sōgō Kyūgo Tsumesho, Uryū Ishida sees a white cabbage butterfly flutter into the room through the narrow slatted window and comments that it must be spring here, leading an embarrassed Ganju Shiba to observe that he must have cracked under the pressure of imprisonment if he is babbling about a butterfly and promises to not tell the others if Uryū decides to chase it. Snapping back to reality at this, Uryū questions why he would want to chase it and demands that Ganju address him more formally because they are not on a first-name basis, and when a startled Ganju asserts that he does not like Uryū either, Uryū reiterates that Ganju should not use his first name and claims that the latter has been rude ever since they first met. With Ganju declaring that being friendly is just a Shiba Clan custom and questioning if Uryū has a problem with it, Yasutora Sado instructs them to be quiet since he can hear something nearby, which Uryū and Ganju realize they can as well. Listening to several crashing sounds, Ganju notes that it is definitely getting closer, only to be surprised alongside Uryū when the noise stops altogether.
Suddenly, a large hole is busted in the ceiling of the cell from above, shocking those within, and Ganju is further mortified when Kenpachi leaps down into the cell, though Uryū and Sado are merely confused by his reaction. Upon seeing Ikkaku and Yumichika standing next to him, Ganju identifies Yumichika as the narcissist with the bowl cut hairdo, which leads an irritated Yumichika to inquire who Ganju is because he has a bad memory for ugly faces while holding up his Zanpakutō. As Ganju claims to have been told that he looks better with the bandages on and questions how Yumichika recognizes him, Uryū mentally observes that Ganju did not even deny that he is ugly. However, Uryū, Sado, and Ganju are all astonished when Orihime pops up from behind Kenpachi's shoulder and expresses relief that they are alright.
Down in the Study Chamber within Sōkyoku Hill, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai sheathes his Zanpakutō, ties up his hair, and announces that he is leaving, prompting Ichigo Kurosaki to state that he will see Renji later while facing away from him with another sword in his hands. Passing Yoruichi Shihōin on his way to the exit, Renji asks her if she believes Ichigo will be ready in time, and as Yoruichi tells Renji to not worry, Ichigo stands with blood and sweat pouring down his face and neck. Renji clarifies that he is not inquiring if Ichigo will be killed because the latter has come a long way, but questions if Ichigo can really achieve Bankai. However, Yoruichi merely states that no one knows, to Renji's chagrin, and closes her eyes as Zangetsu asks Ichigo if he is ready. With several clones of himself standing on the rocks and cliffs surrounding Ichigo, each wielding Zangetsu, Zangetsu warns Ichigo that he will not hold back just because time is running out, only for Ichigo to assert that he knew this and would not let Zangetsu do so if he tried.
As she watches this, Yoruichi inquires if Renji remembers the first time he stood on his own two feet, which Renji denies, and explains that he was not aware of it when he did it before questioning what made him stand up. Detailing how people know how to walk, birds know how to fly, and fish know how to stand from birth, Yoruichi attributes this to instinct and asserts that this is what makes them strive to gain power. Yoruichi concludes that Ichigo's dedication looks like instinct to her and makes her believe that he knows he can master Bankai on an instinctual level as Ichigo resumes his attack on Zangetsu.
138. Individual Thoughts [ ]
With the captains and lieutenants of the Gotei 13 preparing to head out for Rukia Kuchiki 's execution, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki leads the Ryoka and several of his subordinates through the Seireitei before being confronted.
In the Sixth Division barracks five hours prior to Rukia Kuchiki 's scheduled execution, Captain Byakuya Kuchiki stands before a shrine to Hisana Kuchiki, and upon being informed that it is time for him to travel to Sōkyoku Hill, Byakuya acknowledges this and closes the shrine while telling Hisana that he is departing.
Meanwhile, at the Seventh Division barracks, Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba runs across the plaza, leaps into the air, tucks his knees underneath him, and holds his fists out as he lands on the deck and slides to a halt in front of his captain, Sajin Komamura, whom he apologizes to for delaying their departure by falling asleep on the toilet. However, as Iba promises to cut open his own stomach in order to atone for this, Komamura assures him that this is unnecessary because he is ready, which Iba nervously acknowledges. Komamura tells Iba that he did not need to concern himself, and when Iba claims to not know what he is referring to, Komamura instructs him to not lie and details how Iba tried to delay their departure so Komamura could have time to think due to believing the latter had doubts about the execution. With Iba admitting that this is true, Komamura asserts that he has no such doubts and declares that his only motivation is his debt of gratitude to Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto before elaborating that Yamamoto taking him in when he was shunned by all due to his appearance means that the least he can do is devote himself to repaying Yamamoto's kindness.
After concluding that he has no doubts and that he is ready to give his life should Yamamoto require it, Komamura asks 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen how he feels about this as the latter stands behind Iba with his lieutenant, Shūhei Hisagi. Tōsen states that he is doing fine and reminds Komamura that the only thing reflected in his blind eyes is the path of least bloodshed, which means that the path he travels is the same as Komamura's.
At the Second Division barracks, Lieutenant Marechiyo Ōmaeda walks behind his captain, Suì-Fēng, past several intimidated Shinigami and eats out of a bag of rice crackers as he complains about those arguing over whether the execution is right or wrong on top of the trouble stemming from the Ryoka and the murder of 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen. With Marechiyo describing those who are complaining as idiots, Suì-Fēng asserts that right or wrong does not concern her and that all she cares about are her duties and honor as a captain of the Gotei 13 before concluding that anyone interfering with this is her enemy and she will simply kill all enemies. While Marechiyo acknowledges this, Suì-Fēng reminds him that this applies to him as well and warns him that he will become her enemy should he forget his place and get in her way, leaving him to promise to remember this in irritation as she walks away.
Elsewhere, 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku hums to himself as he lies on top of a roof with a blade of grass in his mouth. When his lieutenant, Nanao Ise, climbs up and demands to know what he is doing here because he needs to get ready, Shunsui inquires if he can tell her about a small problem he has, and when Nanao asks him about it, Shunsui explains that he put the blade of grass in his mouth due to thinking it would make him look cool but thinks it might be poisonous since the inside of his mouth is numb, prompting Nanao to angrily yank it out of his mouth while berating him for not doing this sooner. Upon being asked by Shunsui what he should do, Nanao questions why he is coming to her about this and points out how he will do what he wants regardless of what she says, but assures him that she will stay a few steps behind Shunsui regardless of what he does so she does not get caught up in the mess, leading Shunsui to note that he will be the only one getting scolded by Yamamoto once more, which Nanao smiles at.
While Yamamoto and his lieutenant, Chōjirō Sasakibe, move out, Orihime Inoue, Yasutora Sado, Uryū Ishida, and Ganju Shiba follow 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki, Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi, 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame, 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa, and Makizō Aramaki to a large, empty pavilion atop a building, where Uryū nervously observes that finding the right street seems to take luck as Orihime affirms that ten or twenty dead-ends is not uncommon. With Yachiru irritated by this, Ikkaku points to this as proof of why he did not want her leading them, leading Yachiru to angrily bite his head in response. Suddenly, Yumichika senses an intense Reiatsu in front of them, and upon being alerted of this, Kenpachi criticizes such sneaking around and demands that they show themselves as he claims that captains should not be concealing their Reiatsu. Berating Kenpachi for his arrogance and questioning if he knows what he is doing, Tōsen appears on the rooftop in front of the group alongside Komamura, Iba, and Hisagi. As Tōsen inquires where Kenpachi is going with the Ryoka and if he lost his honor when he was defeated, a terrified Aramaki identifies him, Komamura, Iba, and Hisagi while expressing disbelief at being confronted by four powerful opponents like this. However, though Yumichika assures Aramaki that they are outnumbered by the Ryoka's group and Aramaki asserts that it is not about numbers, Kenpachi tells them to be quiet and reminds Yumichika that he never said he would let the others fight before declaring that he will be fighting all four of the Shinigami at once, though he does not believe it will be enough to test his sword.
139. Drowsy, Bloody, Crazy [ ]
11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki begins fighting 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura and 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen while his 3rd and 5th Seats, Ikkaku Madarame and Yumichika Ayasegawa, take on the lieutenants.
Having confronted 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki in an empty pavilion alongside his lieutenant, Tetsuzaemon Iba, 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen, and Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi, 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura picks up on Kenpachi's comment of four against one not being enough to test his sword and inquires if the latter intends to fight all four of them at once. With Komamura asserting that he may be overrating himself despite his impressive skill, Kenpachi exerts his Reiatsu as he draws his Zanpakutō and demands that they fight instead of talking before advising them to attack from all sides at once so one of them might have a chance at cutting him. Behind Kenpachi, Makizō Aramaki questions what they should do, and when Kenpachi bluntly tells him to move because he is in the way, Aramaki is left dejected by him saying it like this. When 11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi addresses him as "Mustache Guy" while telling him they should go, Aramaki is incredulous at her giving him a new nickname as Yachiru clarifies that they should not get in Kenpachi's way while he is having fun.
After telling Kenpachi that they will look for Ichigo Kurosaki ahead and asking him to not take too long, which Kenpachi responds to by promising to be there soon, Yachiru pulls Orihime Inoue, Yasutora Sado, Uryū Ishida, Ganju Shiba, and Aramaki away while addressing them by their nicknames, with Uryū being insulted by the comment on his thin physique. As they run off, Tōsen notes Kenpachi's promise to catch up with the group quickly and questions if this was bluster or him being serious, only to conclude that Kenpachi has lost his sanity in addition to his honor either way. However, a grinning Kenpachi merely asserts that he has never had anything like sanity to begin with. Elsewhere, Orihime asks Yachiru if she is sure about leaving Kenpachi all alone while running behind her alongside her friends and Aramaki, prompting Yachiru to cheerfully claim that Kenpachi will not lose no matter whom he fights, to Orihime's concern. Left in disbelief by Orihime casually addressing Yachiru by her first name despite the latter being a lieutenant and noting that she has courage, Aramaki attempts to ask 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame what he thinks about this, only to find him absent from the group.
Back at the pavilion, Iba and Hisagi approach Kenpachi as they request that their captains let them take care of this, and as a disappointed Kenpachi reminds them of his advice to attack him all at once, Ikkaku echoes his criticism and declares that he knew it would be like this before appearing in front of Kenpachi alongside 11th Division 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa, who asserts that they will have to step in if this is how Iba and Hisagi want to do things. Though Kenpachi is confused as to why they are still here, Ikkaku berates Iba and Hisagi for thinking they would have the privilege to take on a captain despite being only lieutenants, and after Kenpachi realizes that they want to fight as well and orders them to do so somewhere else at risk of being killed if they get in his way, Ikkaku and Yumichika comply, prompting Iba to question when Ikkaku gained the right to speak to him like this. When Ikkaku claims that he does not need lessons on how to talk from a coward who left the Eleventh Division because he could not become the lieutenant, Iba is visibly irritated by this, but Ikkaku tells him to save this for later and to go somewhere else because he does not want Kenpachi to kill him, which Yumichika echoes. Upon being requested by Yumichika to go somewhere else with him, Hisagi asserts that it will not matter regardless of what he does.
Ikkaku, Iba, Yumichika, and Hisagi all disappear with Shunpo, leaving Kenpachi to observe that they can finally fight and claim that he could not refuse the wishes of his subordinates even if it meant halving the number of his opponents, though he believes this can at least be his morning workout. Commenting on Kenpachi's arrogance once more, Komamura draws his Zanpakutō, rupturing the ground in front of its blade in the process, and proclaims that this is why he thinks Kenpachi is overrating himself. With Kenpachi mildly impressed by his rupturing of the ground, Komamura inquires if the former is ready and releases his Shikai, Tenken, manifesting a large disembodied and armored hand wielding an equally massive sword that slams into a surprised Kenpachi, carving a large chasm into the ground and destroying the bridge leading to the pavilion behind him. As the dust settles, Tōsen tells Komamura to take two steps back because Kenpachi might still attack and asserts that he will crush the latter's limbs before using Suzumushi Nishiki: Benihikō, generating hundreds of thin blades in the arc of his Zanpakutō swing that rain down on the area where Kenpachi was standing, further damaging the building and causing part of it to collapse. However, though Komamura concludes that it is over because not even someone as powerful as Kenpachi could have survived this, the dust clears to reveal Kenpachi still standing with several of the blades embedded in his body, shocking Komamura and Tōsen. With Komamura in disbelief that he is still standing after a blow from Tenken and Suzumushi Nishiki: Benihikō, Kenpachi pulls one of the blades out of his left shoulder and retracts his comment about this making for a good workout because it will not even make him wake up before declaring that he is going to cut them in two and end this now.
Meanwhile, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai runs toward Senzaikyū and mentally tells Rukia Kuchiki to hold on because he is coming to save her while his captain, Byakuya Kuchiki, watches him from a rooftop.
Bleach, Volume 17
140. Bite at the Moon [ ]
Confronted by his captain, Byakuya Kuchiki, during his attempt to free Rukia Kuchiki from Senzaikyū, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai demonstrates his unique knowledge of Byakuya's fighting style.
As he thinks of his captain, Byakuya Kuchiki, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai admits that he was afraid to even step on the latter's shadow while he was pretending to give chase and sharpen his fangs. Approaching Senzaikyū through the Sixth Division compound, Renji defeats multiple Shinigami in a row, including Rikichi Yuki, by cutting through their Zanpakutō with his own and sending them flying with blows that leave them incapacitated on the ground. While he watches Renji leap over a nearby wall, Rikichi wonders why he is doing this. Renji continues running toward Senzaikyū and mentally promises Rukia Kuchiki that he will have her out of there soon before asserting that he will not let them execute her as he recalls their childhood together.
Suddenly, upon passing through an arch, Renji experiences an intense Reiatsu bearing down on him from above, and as he begins sweating profusely, Renji looks up to see Byakuya standing on the roof of one of the towers connected to the arch far above him. With Byakuya inquiring where he is going, Renji declares that he is going to save Rukia, but Byakuya simply states that he will not. Renji reiterates his goal and questions if there is no way that Byakuya will let him pass, prompting Byakuya to conclude that he will not repeat himself before disappearing from the rooftop with Shunpo, causing Renji to realize that he is approaching. However, when Byakuya appears behind him and attempts to perform Senka, Renji turns and intercepts Byakuya's Zanpakutō with his own, which leaves Byakuya shocked as their clash produces a shockwave of force around them.
After identifying the move, Renji details how Senka consists of striking the enemy from behind to destroy their Saketsu and Hakusui in one strike each, making it Byakuya's best move, and describes how he has seen it many times in his mind, allowing him to use logic to foresee Byakuya's moves, before proclaiming that Byakuya's blade can no longer kill him because he can finally follow all of Byakuya's moves. Despite this, Byakuya merely notes that Renji is very talkative and decries him for thinking he could surpass Byakuya's blade with just that as he releases his Shikai, Senbonzakura, only to find Renji's own Shikai, Zabimaru, wrapping itself around the blade of his Zanpakutō before it can complete its release, further shocking him. Renji reiterates that Byakuya's blade cannot kill him and clarifies that this is not due to him becoming a lieutenant, but because he has dreamed of surpassing Byakuya long before he ever joined the Gotei 13. With a stunned Byakuya realizing what Renji being able to release his Zanpakutō without calling its name means, Renji concludes that he will surpass Byakuya now and retracts Zabimaru before activating his Bankai.
141. Kneel to The Baboon King [ ]
6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai reveals his Bankai, Hihiō Zabimaru, and stuns his captain, Byakuya Kuchiki, with its capabilities.
Declaring that he will now surpass his captain, Byakuya Kuchiki, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai holds out his Shikai, Zabimaru, and activates his Bankai, releasing a torrent of Reiatsu from Zabimaru that surges through the surrounding area. With Byakuya watching impassively, the resulting swirling dust cloud clears to reveal Renji standing with his Bankai, Hihiō Zabimaru, an enormous skeletal snake with a large mane of fur around its skull, while wearing furred pauldrons with a baboon skull on his left shoulder and a tooth necklace connecting the two, with the end of the snake's tail in his hand. When Byakuya admits that he did not know Renji had achieved Bankai, Renji questions how he could have known because he does not pay any heed to what is beneath him and reiterates that he is going to save Rukia Kuchiki, but Byakuya simply states that he will not repeat himself, prompting Renji to promise to kill Byakuya if he does not let Renji pass.
Byakuya asserts that this is impossible and that Renji could not even force him to one knee, and as Renji sends Hihiō Zabimaru hurtling toward him, Byakuya moves to the roof of one of the towers lining the bridge they are fighting on with Shunpo right before the fangs close in on him, leaving the impact to damage a large chunk of the bridge and kick up a cloud of dust. Upon seeing Byakuya, Renji swings Hihiō Zabimaru through several of the towers toward the one Byakuya is standing on, where it crashes headlong into the roof. While the broken towers fall to the ground below the bridge, Hihiō Zabimaru hurtles toward the ground with Byakuya blocking its front fangs with his Zanpakutō. Though he admits that Hihiō Zabimaru is worthy of being called a Bankai, Byakuya declares that this battle ends here and releases his Shikai, Senbonzakura, seemingly breaking apart the segments making up the skeletal snake with his blade petals and causing them to crash into the ground.
However, as Byakuya lands on the ground and looks back at the segments, he is astonished to see them moving and watches as the segments reassemble in bursts of Reiatsu into Hihiō Zabimaru, which coils itself around Renji. Detailing how Senbonzakura is comprised of a thousand slender shards too swift to be seen by the naked eye and resembling a mass of petals on the wind when they catch the light as they rise, Renji explains that the joints of Hihiō Zabimaru are held together by his Reiatsu, preventing Byakuya's blade from shattering it because he can simply separate the joints in order to evade Senbonzakura. With Renji concluding that he can see all the blade petals of Senbonzakura, two more segments of Hihiō Zabimaru break through the ground underneath Byakuya, who leaps back and skids along the ground on one knee. After appearing behind a stunned Byakuya, Renji observes that he is down on one knee and asserts that he will defeat Byakuya before declaring that it is time to draw the curtain on this duel.
142. 月を捉ものへ告ぐ [ ]
6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki turns the tables on his lieutenant, Renji Abarai, with his own Bankai, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi.
With his lieutenant, Renji Abarai, having declared that it is time to draw the curtain on their battle, 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki stands up and promises to do so with his sword. Questioning if Byakuya already forgot what he said, Renji reiterates that he can see Byakuya's moves now and proclaims that his sword will draw the curtain as he sends his Bankai, Hihiō Zabimaru, hurtling toward Byakuya, who simply raises his left hand toward it and uses Hadō #33. Sōkatsui, leaving a shocked Renji to brace himself against a massive blast of energy that rips through the nearby buildings. While Renji expresses disbelief at Byakuya being able to unleash such powerful Kidō while forgoing incantations through Eishōhaki, Byakuya becomes visible in the gap between the segments of Hihiō Zabimaru encircling him, which prompts Renji to demand to know if Byakuya thought he could make Renji lose sight of him with that spell as he disperses the resulting dust cloud and sends Hihiō Zabimaru hurtling toward Byakuya once more.
Suddenly, one of the segments of Hihiō Zabimaru rises between the approaching snake and Byakuya, and as Hihiō Zabimaru crashes into that segment, shattering it on impact, Renji curses having missed Byakuya, who appears behind him and clarifies that he cast Hadō #33. Sōkatsui to disrupt Hihiō Zabimaru rather than to blind Renji himself. Byakuya explains that the central problem with Bankai is its size proportionate to its powerful Reiatsu, requiring one to train for an additional ten years after achieving Bankai in order to master all its movements, and asserts that Renji is not ready to use his Bankai in battle. Despite this, Renji claims that a missing segment will not make a difference since his Zanpakutō is tough and attacks Byakuya once more, but Byakuya casts Bakudō #61. Rikujōkōrō, restraining Renji with six tapered flat beams of light that slam into his waist.
After stating that Renji should have withdrawn his sword, Byakuya inquires if Renji really thought he could beat him and reminds Renji that he has also achieved Bankai before dropping his Zanpakutō, which sinks into the ground in front of him as though it were water, and activating his Bankai, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, causing two long rows of giant swords to rise up on either side of him that separate into innumerable blade petals at his command. While watching this in shock, Renji finds his restraints and the upper half of the building behind him suddenly destroyed while the bandanna tying his hair is shredded and Renji himself is slashed on multiple areas of his body, leaving him to fall forward in a shower of blood. As he observes this, Byakuya decides to explain the difference between the two of them and approaches Renji, who is lying in a pool of his own blood, while stating that the difference lies in their class, which he compares to the tale of the monkey and the moon where that which shines in the eyes of the beast is just the reflection of the moon on the water. Concluding that Renji will only sink to the bottom if he tries to capture the moon, Byakuya asserts that Renji's fangs will never reach him and prepares to depart.
143. Blazing Souls [ ]
Though grievously wounded and left nearly dead by his captain, Byakuya Kuchiki, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai finds the strength to keep fighting from Ichigo Kurosaki 's ongoing struggle.
While facing down 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura and 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen as he tears the blades of Suzumushi Nishiki: Benihikō out of his body, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki senses the Reiatsu generated by the battle between 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai and his captain, Byakuya Kuchiki, leading him to conclude that his is not the only fight occurring in the Seireitei right now, which he likes, before preparing to continue the fight as he declares that it is finally getting festive around here.
Meanwhile, on the bridge, Byakuya describes his Bankai, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, as a thousand steel petals rising from his feet that separate into razor-like shards of a shattered blade too numerous to comprehend, track, or evade. Concluding that it is like watching the wind blow and that all which stands before them becomes dust, Byakuya tells a grievously wounded Renji to be proud of retaining his human form despite taking his blade while the latter lies behind him in a pool of blood surrounded by the shards of his Bankai, Hihiō Zabimaru. Upon noticing Renji's right hand twitch as it holds the handle of Hihiō Zabimaru, Byakuya notes that he is still alive, and when Renji begins dragging his fist through the ground and pushing himself up, Byakuya advises him to not move because it will only hasten his death. Suddenly, the remnants of Hihiō Zabimaru dissipate into Reiatsu and return to the hilt in Renji's hand, which reverts to the sealed form of his Zanpakutō while he asserts that it is not over and that he can still fight.
However, when Renji rushes at him, Byakuya reiterates his command to not move and forms thirteen blades with Senbonzakura Kageyoshi that embed themselves in the ground around Renji, two of which pierce his sword arm and pin it to the ground. Though he admits his respect for a screaming Renji still being able to breath after enduring Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, Byakuya refuses to hold back if Renji moves again and pulls one of the swords out of Renji's arm as he promises to turn the latter's body to dust. With Byakuya holding the sword near his head, Renji swallows in fear while Byakuya details how the disappearance of Renji's Bankai against his will means that he is near death. After observing that Renji is dying and that he will kill Renji anyway if he stands, Byakuya asks Renji if he still insists on rescuing Rukia Kuchiki.
Internally, Renji notes that he cannot breathe or even move a finger because it feels like Byakuya's Reiatsu is pulverizing him and curses how far beyond his reach Byakuya was, to the point of never having had a chance to defeat him. Suddenly, Renji envisions a wounded Ichigo Kurosaki kneeling before Zangetsu with a broken sword, and when Zangetsu questions if Ichigo is getting up again, the latter merely grins alongside Renji, who responds to Byakuya's inquiry by confirming that he is still intent on saving Rukia. When Ichigo and Renji assert in unison that they swore they would save Rukia, and when Byakuya inquires whom Renji swore this to, Ichigo and Renji declare that they swore on their own souls while Renji crushes the other sword pinning his arm with his free hand and throws the shattered remnants at a stunned Byakuya before rushing forward with his Zanpakutō, resulting in a spray of blood.
144. Rosa Rubicundior,Lilio Candidior [ ]
With 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai defeated by his captain, Byakuya Kuchiki, Rukia Kuchiki is approached by 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru.
With his grievously wounded lieutenant, Renji Abarai, rushing toward him with his Zanpakutō held out, 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki can only stand still in shock as a large amount of blood spurts into the air behind Renji, who stands as the broken portion of his Zanpakutō's blade falls past his hand and embeds itself in the ground next to his feet. Having broken on contact with Byakuya, most of the remainder of Renji's blade shatters, and Renji himself begins bleeding profusely from his back and ankle before gripping the remainder of his Zanpakutō once more and swinging at Byakuya, only for the rest of the blade and the entirety of the hilt to crumble as well upon reaching Byakuya. Renji curses and collapses before Byakuya, who, having received a minor injury to his chest from Renji's final attack, removes his bloodied scarf and throws it onto Renji before congratulating Renji for reaching him with his fangs as he departs, leaving Renji to begin losing consciousness. Renji recalls 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira advising him to stay away from Rukia Kuchiki for the sake of both of them since she likely realizes that she is not like them, 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame drinking sake and expressing surprise at Renji's difficult goal of surpassing Byakuya, and 11th Division 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa commenting on how discouraging it is that tearing down is always easier than building up is, as well as how much more difficult it is to tie than it is to untie. With his last thought being of the day Rukia left him at the Shin'ō Academy, Renji loses consciousness.
Meanwhile, on the bridge leading to Sōkyoku Hill with four members of the Kidō Corps restraining and escorting her, Rukia is stunned upon sensing Renji's Reiatsu disappear, which she mentally admits she could not tell was his prior because it was so powerful, and begins demanding to know why Renji ended up in this situation, prompting the members of the Kidō Corps to hold her back with their hands. Suddenly, Rukia sees 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru approaching her on the bridge as the latter greets her.
145. Shaken [ ]
While 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru breaks Rukia Kuchiki 's resolve to face her execution with dignity, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki proves to be more than a match for both 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura and 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen.
Having been addressed informally by Rukia Kuchiki as he approaches her on the bridge leading to Sōkyoku Hill, 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru scolds her for not addressing him as Captain Ichimaru and promises that her brother, Byakuya Kuchiki, will scold her if she keeps this up. Though an unnerved Rukia apologizes, Gin chuckles and reveals that he was not being serious, nor would he tell Byakuya, because they are friends. Upon being asked by Rukia what he is doing here, Gin claims that he just decided to take a walk and tease Rukia a bit.
Rukia mentally asserts that she has always hated Gin and recalls how Gin would come over to talk to Byakuya after they became captains of their respective divisions while Byakuya was walking with her, and though a casual observer would not have seen anything special in their meaningless conversations, she broke into a cold sweat the first time she saw Gin because every aspect of his body language felt like that of a hungry snake, to the point where it felt like his hands were around her throat and leaving her unable to blink even while he talked to Byakuya. As she remembers how Gin's venom seeped into the small cracks of everyday life and left her feeling intense fear around him, Rukia ruminates that something deep inside her was repulsed by everything about him, a feeling which never went away no matter how many times she talked to him and persists even now. When Gin asks her what is wrong and observes that she seems distracted, a sweating Rukia apologizes.
Suddenly, Gin notes that 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai is still alive, and when she looks in Renji's direction, a shocked Rukia realizes that she can sense Renji's Reiryoku if she focuses hard enough, but begins to note that he will die if he is left like that, only for Gin to finish her train of thought aloud. With Rukia glaring at him, Gin expresses sympathy for Renji due to him ending up in this situation because he was trying to save her, and when Rukia angrily accuses him of lying, Gin inquires if she is afraid. As Rukia questions what he means, Gin points out how she does not want Renji and the others to die before observing that the thought of death becomes much more terrifying when one fears for the lives of those they care about. Stunned by this, Rukia is astonished alongside the members of the Kidō Corps when Gin offers to help her. Gin elaborates that he could free Rukia right now and help her friends if he chose to do so, leading Rukia to wonder if he has gone mad and what he would gain by helping Ichigo Kurosaki and Renji.
However, just as Rukia begins to believe that he may be sincere, Gin reveals that he was just kidding, leaving Rukia speechless, and walks away while bidding her farewell and promising to see Rukia at the Sōkyoku. Internally, Rukia notes that she thought she had given up hope and lost all reason to live, with no regrets and no fear of death, but was shaken by having something like hope dangled in front of her, which made her want to live and made her resolve crumble, as she falls to her knees and screams in despair with Gin smiling behind her.
Meanwhile, at the rooftop pavilion, 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura and 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen attack 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki in unison, only for him to effortlessly block both their strikes simultaneously with his Zanpakutō, to their surprise. Admonishing Tōsen for exposing his vulnerability by being fearful of every attack, Kenpachi kicks him in the chest, sending Tōsen crashing through the wall on the opposite end of the pavilion. With Komamura looking back and calling out to Tōsen in concern, Kenpachi asserts that this is true of him as well and grabs Komamura's sword arm at the wrist with his free hand before flipping Komamura onto his back, cratering the ground with the impact. After berating Komamura and Tōsen for calling themselves captains, Kenpachi demands that they at least act likes captains and show him their Bankai before they die, and though Komamura refuses to use Bankai against a traitor like Kenpachi, Tōsen decides that he will do so as his Zanpakutō begins glowing with Reiatsu.
146. Demon Loves the Dark [ ]
9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen activates his Bankai, Suzumushi Tsuishiki: Enma Kōrogi, against 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki while Rukia Kuchiki 's execution commences.
9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen rapidly spins his Zanpakutō as he recounts the three methods for becoming a captain of the Gotei 13: passing the captain's exam in front of three or more captains, including the Captain-Commander; receiving recommendations from six or more captains and having three of the seven remaining captains approve it; and defeating a captain in the presence of no less than 200 members of their division. When 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki questions why this is relevant because he already knows, Tōsen explains that he has had a strong suspicion of Kenpachi ever since he became the captain of the Eleventh Division by killing Kenpachi Kiganjō, with him believing that Kenpachi is a monster spreading carnage and thirsting for blood who is not like them and cannot be allowed to stay because he will eventually destroy the peace of the Gotei 13. With Kenpachi remaining silent, Tōsen points out how he is currently bringing chaos by assisting the Ryoka and fighting against Tōsen and 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura due to his hunger for bloodshed. Upon being asked if he is wrong, Kenpachi bluntly tells Tōsen to preach this to someone who cares and to simply state that he is the good guy while Kenpachi is the bad guy before encouraging Tōsen to use his Bankai if he hates him so much.
However, Tōsen clarifies that he does not hate Kenpachi and holds out his Zanpakutō while proclaiming that Kenpachi is beyond redemption through his breaking of the peace through word and deed, meaning that he must eliminate Kenpachi to restore the peace even though their feud is not personal. Realizing that Tōsen is serious, Komamura leaps onto the bridge on the other side of the chasm behind Kenpachi and expresses concern for Tōsen, who spins the ring on his Zanpakutō's hilt and drastically enlarges it to roughly his height before initiating his Bankai, Suzumushi Tsuishiki: Enma Kōrogi, causing the ring to split apart into ten rings that hurtle apart and surround the pavilion as they fill with light. Suddenly, a black dome anchored by the ten rings, which now each contain a different kanji, envelops the entirety of the pavilion, leaving Kenpachi stunned, and Tōsen reveals that the entire space within the dome is his Bankai. Asking Kenpachi what he thinks as he approaches, Tōsen asserts that even Kenpachi could not have imagined such a sight, only to note that he cannot see anything right now while walking past Kenpachi, who remains still and does not react.
Internally, Kenpachi wonders what is going on because he cannot see or hear anything. Suddenly, Tōsen slashes Kenpachi's left shoulder and inquires how it feels to be in a world without light or sound. As he assumes that it must be terrifying, Tōsen details how his Bankai deprives its inhabitants of sight, hearing, smell, and the ability to sense Reiatsu, drawing them into an empty black hell which only he is immune to as the one holding Suzumushi. When Kenpachi attempts to reach out to him, Tōsen slashes him across the back and declares that it is useless to attempt to capture him by guessing where he will strike from next. After elaborating that even the most skilled swordsman feels a twinge of fear in total darkness, which slows reactions, Tōsen begins to explain how being born into a world without light like he was removes this fear, but is interrupted when Kenpachi slams his Zanpakutō into the ground next to Tōsen, leaving him shocked. With Kenpachi grinning, Tōsen realizes that he really is a monster for being right at home in this black hell and never feeling a moment of fear, which leads Tōsen to proclaim that he will not waste any more time.
Meanwhile, on Sōkyoku Hill, Rukia Kuchiki is led to the execution platform and closes her eyes as Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto stands with his lieutenant, Chōjirō Sasakibe, and declares that the execution shall now begin.
147. Countdown to The End : 3 [Blind Light, Deaf Beat] [ ]
With the available captains and lieutenants assembling for Rukia Kuchiki 's execution, 11th Division 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa demonstrates his true power against 9th Division Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi while his captain, Kenpachi Zaraki, turns the tables against Hisagi's captain, Kaname Tōsen.
At the execution platform on Sōkyoku Hill, 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng stands with her lieutenant, Marechiyo Ōmaeda, and observes that the turnout is pretty measly, with only her, Marechiyo, 4th Division Captain Retsu Unohana, Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu, 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku, and Lieutenant Nanao Ise attending. As she admits that the Fifth Division, Eleventh Division, and Twelfth Division not being present makes sense, but wonders what the head Shinigami of the other divisions are thinking, Suì-Fēng is surprised when 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki arrives, and when a stunned Rukia Kuchiki addresses him, Byakuya looks away and walks over to the rest of the captains, leaving Rukia to stand in silence before being asked by Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto if she has any last words. Looking down, Rukia confirms that she has only one thing to say.
Elsewhere in the Seireitei, 9th Division Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi sees that his captain, Kaname Tōsen, has activated his Bankai, Suzumushi Tsuishiki: Enma Kōrogi, meaning that he is in trouble or just wants to toy with his victim. With Hisagi deciding that he should go check either way, a wounded 11th Division 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa questions where he is going because Hisagi has not beaten him yet while propping himself up on his Shikai, Fuji Kujaku. An incredulous Hisagi points out that Yumichika is finished, and when Yumichika states that losing means death to the Eleventh Division, Hisagi rebukes that the Ninth Division does not think this way, which Yumichika concedes is what he figured. When Yumichika claims that this is why he has been putting on a fight like this, a confused Hisagi asserts that this is all the more reason for Yumichika to sheathe his sword since a 5th Seat does not stand a chance against a lieutenant and dying in a fight would be shameful for a member of a division that loves to fight.
However, Yumichika clarifies that the Eleventh Division is made up of people who believe it is better to die fighting than to surrender before revealing that he is only a 5th Seat because he does not like how the kanji for "four" looks. As Hisagi expresses surprise at this, Yumichika elaborates that he considers the kanji for "three" to be the most beautiful character, but since Ikkaku Madarame is the 3rd Seat, he decided to go with "five" since it looks more like "three". After informing Hisagi that the Eleventh Division also has an unspoken rule of only using their Zanpakutō for melee attacks because they look down on Kidō -type Zanpakutō as men who live to fight, Yumichika fans out the blades of Fuji Kujaku and declares that he will show Hisagi his Zanpakutō's real power. With dozens of peacock-feathered vines suddenly flaring out from the hilt of his Zanpakutō in place of its curved blades, Yumichika requests that Hisagi not tell Ikkaku or his captain, Kenpachi Zaraki, since they will get mad at him if they find out, leaving Hisagi astonished and intimidated.
Meanwhile, within Suzumushi Tsuishiki: Enma Kōrogi, a panting Tōsen stands several feet back from a smiling Kenpachi and wonders how Kenpachi is evading him despite being unable to see, hear, smell, or sense Reiatsu as he rushes forward. When Kenpachi moves out of the way of Tōsen's subsequent slash, receiving only a moderate wound to his side, Tōsen is left incredulous at how he keeps barely missing Kenpachi's vital areas before narrowly evading a thrust of Kenpachi's Zanpakutō by leaning back, receiving a small cut on his left cheek, and repeatedly flipping backward to put distance between the two of them. Tōsen internally notes that Kenpachi is striking closer and closer each time he dodges one of Tōsen's attacks, leading Tōsen to assert that he truly is a monster.
As he holds up his Zanpakutō, Kenpachi observes that he got Tōsen that time even if it was only a small scratch and ruminates on the trouble this Bankai is giving him by preventing him from detecting Reiatsu, seeing, hearing, or even smelling, though he observes that retaining his sense of touch allows him to hold his sword and evade Tōsen's blade when he feels it cutting into his flesh. However, after noting that he is even starting to find Tōsen with his Zanpakutō, Kenpachi mentally admits that he will not beat Tōsen with just his reflexes and instincts because the latter is a captain as well, causing him to express frustration at not being able to cut into meat even though he considered this situation to be new and interesting at first.
Deducing that he has to home in on Tōsen's location in order to cut him, Kenpachi recounts that he cannot see or hear and was never any good at detecting Reiatsu while expressing his annoyance at having to think so hard during a fight rather than just getting to enjoy hacking each other to bits. Upon envisioning his lieutenant, Yachiru Kusajishi, suggesting that he take a wild swing, Kenpachi mentally states that he has been doing that, and when he envisions Ikkaku proposing that he use his mind's eye, Kenpachi bluntly asserts that Tōsen would be dead by now if he could do that. However, though he initially dismisses an envisioned Yumichika's suggestion to give up beautifully by telling him to die, Kenpachi realizes that this actually is the solution due to it presenting an easy way to figure out where Tōsen is.
While rushing toward Kenpachi, Tōsen notes that he is smiling again and wants to fight even while hopelessly outmatched, leading him to proclaim that Kenpachi is too much of a threat to them to be allowed to live. When Tōsen's blade pierces Kenpachi's torso and emerges from his back without any effort from Kenpachi to dodge, Tōsen assumes that his warped love of combat provided an opening, but Kenpachi suddenly grabs Tōsen's hand and the hilt of his Zanpakutō with his free hand, causing him to regain his senses. Inquiring where a shocked Tōsen has been, Kenpachi slashes him across the chest.
148. Countdown to The End : 2 [Lady Lennon~Frankenstein] [ ]
After recalling the tragic incident from his past that set him on his path of justice, 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen is grievously wounded by 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki, forcing 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura to step in.
Having slashed 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen across the chest after regaining his senses, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki grips Tōsen's sword hand and wonders if he can see and hear again because he caught Tōsen or because he is touching the latter's Zanpakutō, which he pulls out of his chest. As he dismisses this as irrelevant, Kenpachi encourages Tōsen to do it again since he has the hang of it now and promises to grab Tōsen's arm before his blade sinks into Kenpachi next time. With Kenpachi letting go of his hand and losing his senses once more, Tōsen backsteps and pants heavily as the severed portion of his haori falls off. Tōsen's perception of the world begins to skew due to his injury, and as he mentally declares that he will not lose to Kenpachi, Tōsen rushes forward.
In the past, a younger Tōsen sits with Kakyō, whom he notes was beautiful despite never seeing her face, and as she tells Tōsen that the stars are out, Kakyō states that she loves the night sky because it reminds her of the world, with tiny points of light scattered among the darkness that the clouds try to cover up. While Kakyō asserts that she wants to clear away those clouds so that not a single light is hidden and that she will do so, Tōsen merely responds that this is good as he notes that her voice saying his name over and over comforted him even though he could never bring himself to tell her that he liked the clouds. Some time later, Kakyō informs a surprised Tōsen that she is getting married to a Shinigami and will become a Shinigami as well now that she has received her acceptance letter from the Shin'ō Academy. With Kakyō detailing how she will bring peace by fighting Hollows and revealing that he was the first person whom she wanted to tell, Tōsen congratulates her and inquires if there is anything he can do to help, only for a smiling Kakyō to request that he simply stay the way he is while she comes back now and then to tell him her stories.
After concluding that this was a promise, Kakyō departs, but never comes back to Tōsen again due to having been killed by her husband after admonishing him for killing a comrade over a small matter. Visiting Kakyō's funeral, Tōsen recounts how Kakyō longed for peace more than anyone else and had a sense of justice stronger than that of anyone else, leading him to question what she was lacking that prevented her from getting a chance to fight for what she believed in. As he wishes for the power to impose peace, Tōsen takes the Zanpakutō out of Kakyō's coffin and proclaims that he will become justice incarnate if justice is lacking so all the evil in the world will be blown away like clouds, which he swears in the name of justice.
In the present, Kenpachi grabs Tōsen's sword hand before his Zanpakutō can cut into Kenpachi's shoulder, and as Tōsen struggles to break free, Kenpachi slashes him across the chest once more, wounding Tōsen to the point where he can no longer maintain his Bankai, Suzumushi Tsuishiki: Enma Kōrogi, which shatters and collapses around the pavilion. However, despite the concern of 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura as the latter watches from the broken bridge nearby, a heavily bleeding Tōsen remains standing and refuses to give up as he grips his Zanpakutō with both hands. Looking at Tōsen, Kenpachi declares that he quits because he will not fight someone who is half-dead and bids Tōsen farewell. With Kenpachi remarking that dying is no fun since one cannot cut anybody after death, Tōsen rushes up to him and attempts to stab Kenpachi in the back, though his Zanpakutō fails to pierce Kenpachi's body, and asserts that he must stop Kenpachi in the name of justice. Annoyed by this, Kenpachi decides to kill Tōsen if he is this eager to die and swings his Zanpakutō at him, only for Komamura to appear between them and block Kenpachi's Zanpakutō with his left arm while pulling Tōsen back by his Zanpakutō with his right hand.
As a stunned Kenpachi's Zanpakutō cuts into Komamura's helmet, which begins to break apart, Komamura pushes it back and tells Tōsen that he has done enough because Kenpachi will never understand. Though Tōsen attempts to apologize for causing his helmet to break, Komamura assures him that it is fine, and with Kenpachi admitting his surprise at what Komamura really looks like, the rest of the helmet falls away to reveal Komamura as a humanoid wolf. When Komamura observes that he does not seem too surprised, Kenpachi simply states that looks counts for little in a fight and that it matters more if Komamura can fight like a beast than if he looks like one. However, Komamura asserts that Kenpachi's mistake lies in getting caught up in the the appearance of strength rather than seeing the true strength of his opponent and declares that he is not as nice as Tōsen is before activating his Bankai, Kokujō Tengen Myō'ō, bringing forth the entire giant, which leans over the side of the pavilion and rests its left hand on the ground while Komamura proclaims that it is time for the killing which Kenpachi loves so much.
149. Countdown to The End : 1 [Only Mercifully] [ ]
Rukia Kuchiki 's execution ceremony commences, drawing the attention of various individuals around the Seireitei.
With 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura proclaiming that it is time for the killing which he loves so much after activating his Bankai, Kokujō Tengen Myō'ō, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki laughs maniacally and declares that he loves Komamura's resolve before promising to not hold back if this is what the latter wants. Preparing to resume the fight, Kenpachi encourages Komamura to come back as a ghost if he dies so they can do this again. Suddenly, the two of them feel an immense amount of Reiatsu emanating from Sōkyoku Hill, and as they look toward it in unison, Kenpachi observes that the execution has begun while a circle of Kidō fire forms around the Sōkyoku.
Around the Seireitei, 13th Division 3rd Seat Sentarō Kotsubaki, Orihime Inoue, Uryū Ishida, 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto, and a wounded 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame look in shock at the execution commencement. After noting that it has begun, 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya orders Rangiku to come with him, and the two of them depart for the Central 46 Compound while 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori lurks behind a nearby doorway.
Meanwhile, as he watches from a window in a different part of the Seireitei, Sentarō frantically asks his fellow 3rd Seat, Kiyone Kotetsu, where their captain, Jūshirō Ukitake, has gone, prompting an irritated Kiyone to berate him for being so loud before screaming out for Ukitake, leaving Sentarō unimpressed. Hurrying toward the doors that Ukitake entered, Kiyone asks him if he is ready because Rukia's execution has begun, only to be left speechless when the doors open and Ukitake emerges. After apologizing for keeping them waiting and explaining that he had trouble removing the seal, Ukitake declares that he is ready now and observes that this is the only method they have left with the Central 46 not listening to them before concluding that they are going to destroy the Sōkyoku as he carries the Shihōin Shield, prompting Sentarō and Kiyone to affirm this.
Near Sōkyoku Hill, 11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi runs with Orihime, Yasutora Sado, Uryū, Ganju Shiba, and Makizō Aramaki, and when Orihime wonders what the surge of energy on the hill is, Yachiru notes that the execution may have begun. With a startled Uryū asserting that they have to hurry, Yachiru decides to go on ahead, and when Orihime questions this, Yachiru admits that she does not care about the execution, but wants to help Ichigo Kurosaki if he is there. Though Orihime thanks her for this, Yachiru merely laughs at her thanks and points out that she has no reason to not help Ichigo because the latter is Kenpachi's friend, stunning Orihime, Uryū, and Sado, before requesting that they take care of the weaker enemies so she can deal with the stronger ones as she rushes ahead in a burst of speed that destroys the portion of the ground which she was standing on, leaving Uryū and Ganju astonished by her speed while Orihime thanks Yachiru once more.
On the bridge, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai opens his eyes, and as he realizes that he is alive, Renji discovers that he is being healed by 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada, who timidly greets him. When Renji sits up and demands to know why Hanatarō is healing him after identifying the latter as one of Ichigo's companions, Rikichi Yuki reveals that he brought Hanatarō here as he stands nearby. With a stunned Renji wondering why, Rikichi details how he figured Hanatarō might treat someone who got hurt trying to save Rukia Kuchiki after he got thrown in jail for doing the same thing. Hanatarō explains that the Sōgō Kyūgo Tsumesho was destroyed by the Eleventh Division while the Fourth Division was out, allowing Rikichi to sneak in and open the lock to his cell, and a distressed Rikichi relays how he could not believe Renji lost to a Ryoka or escaped and started helping them, to the point of pointing his sword at his comrades for their sake.
However, Rikichi calms down and reveals that he remembered how he joined the Gotei 13 because of Renji while pointing to the tattoo above his left eyebrow, surprising Renji, and concludes that he wants Renji to live no matter what so he can fight the way he likes because Rikichi finds it cool, leaving Renji stunned. While Rikichi gives Renji a new shihakushō, towel, and headband to wear, Hanatarō admits that he did not want to get anyone else involved and was hoping he would find a way to save Rukia by himself, but observes that this seems to be beyond his abilities now. With a bowing Hanatarō asking him to save Rukia, a revitalized Renji declares that he will.
Back on Sōkyoku Hill, Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto promises Rukia that they will allow the Ryoka to leave unharmed after the execution, which Rukia thanks him for. Though 4th Division Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu considers this cruel because Yamamoto has no intention of letting the Ryoka live, her captain, Retsu Unohana, clarifies that Yamamoto was being compassionate since this will allow Rukia to die with some peace of mind and without worrying. With several members of the Kidō Corps assembled around the Sōkyoku, Yamamoto orders the commencement of the execution.
Bleach, Volume 18
150. Countdown to The End:0 [ ]
Rukia Kuchiki 's execution ceremony proceeds, but is interrupted at the last second.
Near Sōkyoku Hill, several Shinigami observe the Sōkyoku being released as the large ropes entwining it are unbound and left to fall off the cliff, where they crash into the ground below with heavy thuds, leaving the Sōkyoku bare. As she stands on the execution scaffold before it, Rukia Kuchiki observes that her heart is at peace even after 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru 's words shook her, and though she initially assumes this is due to Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto 's promise to spare the lives of the Ryoka, Rukia comes to believe that it is actually the result of her brother, Byakuya Kuchiki, turning his back on her when she was confused and shamefully clinging to life. With Byakuya continuing to look away as he stands with the other captains and lieutenants, Rukia thanks him.
Suddenly, the restraints binding Rukia's arms behind her back dissipate as three medium-size cubes rise from the platform in front of Rukia, splaying her arms outward on either side and locking her legs together by hovering in front of them before ascending toward the top of the execution scaffold with her frozen in place. Seeing his lieutenant, Nanao Ise, watching this nervously, 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku asks her to not look so sad because she is making him feel bad, prompting Nanao to clarify that it is not sadness she is feeling. With Rukia suspended before the top of the execution stand, flames flare out from the base of the Sōkyoku and wreathe themselves around the massive halberd, shocking 2nd Division Lieutenant Marechiyo Ōmaeda. While watching the Sōkyoku ascend into the air from its hole in the ground, 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng and 4th Division Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu realize that it is changing shape, to Shunsui's surprise, and the Sōkyoku transforms into Kikōō, a massive phoenix composed entirely of flame.
Yamamoto explains that Kikōō is the true form of the Sōkyoku and will end the execution by impaling Rukia, who mentally states that she is not afraid because she has had a good life. After reviewing how 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai befriended her, Byakuya took her in, and 13th Division Lieutenant Kaien Shiba guided her, Rukia recalls how Ichigo Kurosaki tried to save her and concludes that she has no pain, sorrow, or regrets, to the point that her heart will leave nothing behind. With Renji, 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake, 3rd Seats Sentarō Kotsubaki and Kiyone Kotetsu, Orihime Inoue, Yasutora Sado, and Uryū Ishida rushing toward Sōkyoku Hill, Rukia thanks them all and sheds a single tear before bidding Ichigo goodbye as she closes her eyes upon seeing Kikōō charging at her.
However, as the burst of flame from the resulting collision clears, Rukia realizes that she is not dead and opens her eyes in astonishment to find a Tentōken -clad Ichigo standing before her in midair while holding back Kikōō with his Shikai, Zangetsu, and casually greeting her.
151. Deathberry Returns [ ]
With unexpected assistance from 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku and 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake, Ichigo Kurosaki saves Rukia Kuchiki from her execution.
With Ichigo Kurosaki standing before her in midair with the aid of the Tentōken and holding back Kikōō with his Shikai, Zangetsu, a restrained Rukia Kuchiki is stunned to see him at her execution ceremony. As Ichigo casually greets her, Rukia demands to know why he is here, and with Ichigo taken aback by her reaction, Rukia asserts that Ichigo should know he cannot beat her brother, Byakuya Kuchiki, who will certainly kill him now. While Rukia claims to have made peace with her death and tells Ichigo to go away, 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng is left incredulous by Ichigo stopping the destructive power of one million Zanpakutō with a single Zanpakutō and wonders who he is.
4th Division Captain Retsu Unohana, Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu, and 1st Division Lieutenant Chōjirō Sasakibe stare in shock as 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku asks his lieutenant, Nanao Ise, if Ichigo is the one whom Yasutora Sado was talking about. When Nanao confirms that he matches the description in the reports they have received, Shunsui notes that the Ryoka is the one saving the day while 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki glares at Ichigo. Suddenly, Kikōō screeches and rears back, startling Ichigo, who realizes that Kikōō is backing up for a second strike and encourages him to bring it on despite Rukia frantically warning Ichigo that he will not be able to stop Kikōō a second time.
However, before Ichigo and Kikōō can clash once more, a large cable attached to a metal rod wraps itself around the neck of Kikōō, to Ichigo and Rukia's shock, as 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake, having activated the Shihōin Shield to achieve this, arrives alongside his 3rd Seats, Sentarō Kotsubaki and Kiyone Kotetsu, astonishing Isane. With Shunsui driving the rod into the ground and inquiring what took Ukitake so long, Isane is aghast at him joining this as well. While Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto stares in shock, Ukitake apologizes and notes that he had trouble releasing the seal while slamming the remainder of the Shihōin Shield into the ground, where Suì-Fēng sees the Shihōin Clan crest on the side and deduces that Ukitake and Shunsui are going to destroy the Sōkyoku, prompting her to order her stunned lieutenant, Marechiyo Ōmaeda, to stop them. Despite this, Shunsui and Ukitake draw their Zanpakutō and slice them down the length of the Shihōin Shield on opposite sides, sending a surge of Reiryoku up through both sides of the cable to Kikōō, who bursts apart in a shower of flames as the Sōkyoku within is split in two.
While those on the ground shield themselves from the falling embers, Ichigo moves to the top of the execution scaffold behind Rukia, and when she questions what he is doing, Ichigo begins spinning Zangetsu around while proclaiming that he is going to wreck the scaffold. Though Rukia attempts to inform him that the scaffold is designed to withstand the destructive power of a million Zanpakutō, Ichigo simply tells her to shut up and watch before driving Zangetsu into the scaffold and channeling his Reiryoku into it, resulting in the central portion of the scaffold being destroyed and the platform at the bottom being split in a massive explosion of force that rips through the underside of the cliff that they are positioned on as well.
As the dust clears, Ichigo reminds Rukia that he is rejecting her protests and declares that he really is going to save Rukia this time on his second try while standing on the right side of the scaffold and carrying Rukia under his left arm. With Rukia tearfully claiming that she will not thank him for doing so, Ichigo acknowledges this while Byakuya stares at them from below.
152. The Speed Phantom [ ]
After destroying the execution scaffold, Ichigo Kurosaki has 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai run off with Rukia Kuchiki before further demonstrating his new level of power against the lieutenants present.
Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto, 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng, Lieutenant Marechiyo Ōmaeda, 4th Division Captain Retsu Unohana, Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu, 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku, 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake, and 3rd Seats Sentarō Kotsubaki and Kiyone Kotetsu stare in shock at Ichigo Kurosaki, who holds Rukia Kuchiki under his left arm after destroying the Sōkyoku execution scaffold. While 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki glares at Ichigo, Rukia asks him what he plans to do now because he is too hopelessly outnumbered to simply disappear, and when Ichigo responds that he will run away, a startled Rukia points out how there are captains down there, prompting an annoyed Ichigo to claim that he will beat them up and then run away. Reminding Rukia that she is not the only one whom he has to save, Ichigo details how he has to save Orihime Inoue, Uryū Ishida, Yasutora Sado, Ganju Shiba, and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada as well before concluding that he is going to save everyone who helped him prior to leaving. As she looks at Ichigo's confident face, Rukia realizes that his strength is flowing into her and notes that Ichigo has become strong.
Suddenly, Ichigo and Rukia are alerted to a commotion on the ground, where they look to see 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai incapacitating the members of the Kidō Corps present as he arrives. With Rukia expressing relief at Renji being alive as he sees her, Ichigo lifts Rukia above his head, and as Renji realizes what he is about to do, Ichigo tells Renji to catch and hurls a screaming Rukia at him, leaving a flabbergasted Renji to berate him before being sent flying back upon catching Rukia in his arms. However, when Rukia and Renji begin admonishing him for doing this, Ichigo orders Renji to stop standing around and get Rukia out of here while protecting her with his life, which Renji complies with. As he watches Renji run off with Rukia in astonishment, Marechiyo is ordered by Suì-Fēng to pursue Renji, and with similar commands from their captains, 1st Division Lieutenant Chōjirō Sasakibe and Isane join Marechiyo in running after Renji.
Upon seeing this, Ichigo appears in front of the three lieutenants with Shunpo, shocking them, and embeds his Shikai, Zangetsu, into the ground. In response, Isane releases her Shikai, Itegumo, granting her sword two additional blades at 45-degree angles, while Chōjirō transforms his Zanpakutō into a rapier by releasing his Shikai, Gonryōmaru, and Marechiyo releases his Shikai, Gegetsuburi, transforming his Zanpakutō into a large spiked ball on a chain, only for Ichigo to shatter it with a single punch to Marechiyo's gut that knocks him out, astonishing Isane and Chōjirō. After grabbing Chōjirō's sword arm by the wrist to restrain him, Ichigo knocks him out with a blow to the head from his other hand, and with Isane stunned that he is not even using his Zanpakutō, Ichigo knocks her out with a single blow as well before pulling Zangetsu out of the ground to block a slash from Byakuya, whom he greets audaciously.
153. Empty Dialogue [ ]
Ichigo Kurosaki begins his rematch with 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki as Yoruichi Shihōin confronts 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng.
As he clashes with Ichigo Kurosaki, 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki inquires why the former insists on trying to save Rukia Kuchiki, prompting Ichigo to demand to know why Byakuya does not save Rukia despite being her brother in return. Pausing for a moment, Byakuya asserts that this is a foolish question and that Ichigo would not understand his reasoning even if he did answer before concluding that there is nothing to discuss. After asking Ichigo if he is ready, Byakuya begins exerting his Reiatsu while pushing down on Ichigo's Shikai, Zangetsu, with his Zanpakutō, resulting in Ichigo breaking the sword lock by leaping several meters back. Byakuya states that only one path is open for him to take and promises that both Ichigo and Rukia will die by his hand, and as he removes the Tentōken covering his shoulders, Ichigo declares that he is here to prevent this from happening before he and Byakuya rush toward each other.
Nearby, 13th Division 3rd Seat Kiyone Kotetsu attempts to run to her unconscious sister, Isane Kotetsu, and while her fellow 3rd Seat, Sentarō Kotsubaki, warns her that she will get killed if she gets too close to Byakuya's fight, 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng sends him flying with a single blow and confronts Kiyone, who looks back in shock. With 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake attempting to get Suì-Fēng to stop, he and 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku find themselves confronted by Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto, who orders them to stop and dismisses 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai as being easily expendable for taking Rukia. However, after noting that they will pursue Renji later because of this, Yamamoto asserts that Shunsui and Ukitake are a more serious matter due to having dishonored their rank of captain, which they should know the consequences of. Hearing this, Shunsui claims that they have no choice but to run and leaps off Sōkyoku Hill while pulling Ukitake along with him and being followed by his lieutenant, Nanao Ise, leaving Yamamoto to glare at him.
Though Ukitake points out that his subordinates are still up there as they fall, Shunsui reminds him that Sentarō and Kiyone would try to help them and thus get themselves killed if they fought Yamamoto on Sōkyoku Hill before revealing that they will be fine because he sensed an ally approaching. Back on Sōkyoku Hill, Kiyone is pinned under Suì-Fēng's foot and struggles to breathe as Suì-Fēng admonishes her for disgracing the Gotei 13 with her contemptible actions and promises to put Kiyone out of her misery before she can disgrace herself any further. However, before Suì-Fēng can do anything, a masked Yoruichi Shihōin grabs and tackles her off the side of Sōkyoku Hill, and as they fall to the ground below, Suì-Fēng demands that Yoruichi let go of her. With Suì-Fēng questioning who she is, Yoruichi observes that her temperament has not improved and removes the fabric covering her face, causing Suì-Fēng to recognize her, before attacking Suì-Fēng with a Kidō spell as they crash into the forest below.
154. The God of Flash [ ]
While 4th Division Captain Retsu Unohana tends to the wounded, Yoruichi Shihōin begins battling 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng as Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto confronts 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku and 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake.
4th Division Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu regains consciousness, and when her captain, Retsu Unohana, asks her if she is awake, a startled Isane begins to bolt up and apologize, only for Unohana to instruct her to take it easy despite not being hit as hard as 2nd Division Lieutenant Marechiyo Ōmaeda and 1st Division Lieutenant Chōjirō Sasakibe were before instructing her Shikai, Minazuki, to descend, prompting the large, one-eyed, manta ray -like creature they are riding on to land in one of the streets of the Seireitei. Upon being approached by members of her division, who ask her and Isane if they are alright, Isane confirms this and has Minazuki spit out the individuals it was healing with its stomach acid, among them Marechiyo, Chōjirō, and 13th Division 3rd Seat Kiyone Kotetsu, before returning to its sealed state in her sheath by melting down to fit. Unohana notes that they should have recovered somewhat in the stomach of Minazuki and instructs her subordinates to have them rest at the sixteenth relief station until they wake up, which is complied with. When Isane senses the Reiatsu emanating from the distant Sōkyoku Hill and realizes that someone is still up there, Unohana reveals that Ichigo Kurosaki is fighting 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki, and after observing that they are not strong enough to stop the other captains who left to fight, Unohana requests that Isane come with her because there is somewhere she wants to go.
Meanwhile, in the forest near Sōkyoku Hill, a single leaf falls from a tree, where it is caught between clashing kicks from Yoruichi Shihōin and 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng and is split by the force as they separate. Moving to separate trees, Suì-Fēng stands across from Yoruichi and claims that Yoruichi being gone for a long time does not mean that her skills have improved, only for Yoruichi to observe that Suì-Fēng seems to have lost her touch in return. Suì-Fēng notes that Ichigo was wearing a Tentōken with the Shihōin Clan clan crest on it and asks Yoruichi if she gave it to him, which Yoruichi affirms on the grounds that Ichigo needed to be able to fly in order to save Rukia, prompting Suì-Fēng to mock the Shihōin Clan as having fallen from grace because it will be banished from the four Noble Houses. With Suì-Fēng bringing up how the Shiba Clan has also fallen and claiming that it is never pleasant to see great clans fall, Yoruichi simply notes that she is talkative today and inquires if this is excitement at seeing her mentor after all these years or just pent-up resentment.
Upon being asked if it was hard to succeed Yoruichi as Commander-in-Chief of the Onmitsukidō, Suì-Fēng admonishes Yoruichi for assuming she would not eventually be surprised and reveals that she controls both the Onmitsukidō and the Keigun now before unsheathing her Zanpakutō and jabbing it into the branch she is standing on while proclaiming that Yoruichi's time has passed, causing dozens of Keigun to appear on the branches surrounding Yoruichi. Suì-Fēng reminds Yoruichi that the Corps Commander of the Keigun baring her sword signifies an execution and boasts that anyone who opposes her will be utterly destroyed, including former Corps Commanders. However, as Suì-Fēng declares that Yoruichi abandoned her post and has nowhere to run, a grinning Yoruichi rapidly defeats all the Keigun surrounding her by moving around with Shunpo so fast that she leaves afterimages, leaving Suì-Fēng shocked as her subordinates fly past her. With Yoruichi asserting that Suì-Fēng has forgotten who she is dealing with and points out that she did not abandon her epithet as she did her post, Suì-Fēng identifies her as the "Flash Goddess" and decides that she has no choice but to rip this epithet apart with her own hands as she removes her haori to expose her sleeveless and backless Keisen Shōzoku.
Elsewhere, 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku and 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake arrive in a heavily damaged and deserted portion of the Third Old City, which Shunsui notes should be far out enough and Ukitake concurs will prevent others from getting hurt should they fight here. When his lieutenant, Nanao Ise, lands behind him, Shunsui teases her for being last, leading Nanao to counter that he and Ukitake were simply too fast. Suddenly, a shocked Nanao sees Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto sitting behind Shunsui and Ukitake, and as an unnerved Shunsui claims he is early, Yamamoto asserts that his quarry never escapes before promising that Shunsui and Ukitake will not get off with just a thrashing this time as he stands up.
155. Redoundable deeds/Redoubtable babies [ ]
Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto demonstrates just how formidable his power is.
With Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto approaching her captain, Shunsui Kyōraku, and 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake, 8th Division Lieutenant Nanao Ise observes that his Reiatsu is truly monstrous and that even two captains may not be enough to beat him as she prepares to intervene by reaching into her shihakushō, only for Yamamoto to look at and focus his Reiatsu on her, immobilizing Nanao and causing her to collapse. As Yamamoto demands that she leave because he does not have the patience to teach infants who have not yet learned to walk, a sweating Nanao begins crying and foaming at the mouth from the sheer pressure. Suddenly, Shunsui transports Nanao to a grassy area far away with a massive Shunpo leap and instructs her to relax while she struggles to breath. While Shunsui apologizes for getting her involved, Nanao is left in disbelief at Yamamoto being able to do this simply by looking in her eyes and realizes that she was naive to think they even stood a chance, leading her to beg Shunsui to not confront Yamamoto when he disappears.
Back in the Third Old City, Shunsui reappears before Yamamoto, who commends his impressive Shunpo and how far he has learned to travel in a single step. After Shunsui thanks him, Yamamoto observes that he and Ukitake were always in a class of their own even when they were young, with Shunsui being thoughtful and always seeing the truth of things despite his scandalous weakness for women and Ukitake being generous, well-respected, and always at the center of things despite his frailty. Concluding that they were both transcendent in battle and could not be matched by anyone, Yamamoto describes them as ambitious and training endlessly in order to become the first captains from the Shin'ō Academy that he founded. Though asserting that he was proud of Shunsui and Ukitake as though they were his own sons and hoped that they would walk the same path even though their spirits differed, Yamamoto notes that it is a pity that they turned out the way they did as he peels back the wood of his cane to reveal his Zanpakutō. Despite Ukitake's attempt to continue the conversation, Yamamoto claims that there is nothing more to discuss and demands that he and Shunsui draw their weapons while unsheathing his Zanpakutō, which prompts Shunsui and Ukitake to grip their own Zanpakutō as well.
Elsewhere in the Seireitei, as 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai runs through one of the streets with her in his arms, Rukia Kuchiki begs him to let her go so she can help Rukia Kuchiki, only for Renji to angrily tell her to shut up because someone will hear them while they are trying to escape otherwise. Upon hearing two Shinigami on the other side of a nearby wall noting that they heard voices, Renji takes this as proof that he was right, but Rukia points out that they probably heard him instead. Continuing to run, Renji notes that Ichigo said he wanted to repay Rukia, and when the latter expresses confusion at this, Renji recalls Ichigo explaining how she saved his life and changed his fate, allowing him to become a Shinigami and protect everyone, which prompts Rukia to remember telling 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada how she believed that she could never atone for what she had done to Ichigo by twisting his fate and hurting him terribly. As he notices this, Renji tells Rukia that she thinks too much as usual and assures her that no one thinks badly of her before requesting that she stop taking all the blame onto herself because she is not strong enough to bear that burden yet. With Renji promising that he and Ichigo will lighten her load until she gets her strength back since this is why they made themselves stronger, Renji asks Rukia to believe in Ichigo. When Rukia apologizes to him, Renji states that this is no time for apologies, and when Rukia thanks him, a smiling Renji claims that it is not time for this either.
Back in the Third Old City, Yamamoto pushes back Shunsui and Ukitake after they cross blades with him and demands to know what they are thinking by fighting him without releasing their Zanpakutō. With Shunsui questioning if there is really no other way, Yamamoto reminds him that he will not allow anyone to disrupt the peace, but Shunsui asserts that Yamamoto always taught them to fight for justice and Ukitake points out how Yamamoto urged them to become stronger for this reason alone. Yamamoto counters that no personal justice takes precedence over the justice of the world, and as Ukitake asks him what the justice of the world is, Yamamoto reiterates that there is nothing to discuss and removes his haori before releasing his Shikai, Ryūjin Jakka, transforming the blade into a surge of fire that wreathes itself around him and intimidates Shunsui and Ukitake.
156. Welcome to Purgatory [ ]
With 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki and his 5th Seat, Yumichika Ayasegawa, having finished their battles, Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto engages 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku and 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake after they release their respective Shikai.
As 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki sits on the broken bridge across from the pavilion where he was fighting with his Zanpakutō embedded in the ground next to him, his 5th Seat, Yumichika Ayasegawa, cheerily approaches and wonders where he is. Upon spotting Kenpachi sitting alone, Yumichika inquires if the fight is over, prompting Kenpachi to reveal that 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura sensed Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto fighting somewhere and rushed off to help him. With Yumichika cheerfully noting that this must be what he has been sensing, Kenpachi questions why he is in such a good mood and turns to see Yumichika completely unharmed, to his surprise. Yumichika confirms that he won without getting hurt and admits that he had to change his shihakushō after it got dirty, and when Kenpachi observes that he is more cheerful now, Yumichika interprets this as being told he is more beautiful than he was before and begins squirming in happiness, to Kenpachi's annoyance. After calming down, Yumichika apologizes and explains that he is simply excited because he has not been able to fight like that in a long time.
Elsewhere, 9th Division Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi pants heavily as he lies on a rooftop and complains about Yumichika's Zanpakutō consuming all his Reiryoku. Suddenly, Hisagi sees an enormous fire raging in the Third Old City and recognizes the Reiatsu as belonging to Yamamoto, who stands before 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku and 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake with his Shikai, Ryūjin Jakka, released as a huge amount of flame coils around him. Internally, Ukitake wonders how long it has been since he last saw Yamamoto like this and felt a fear like the weight of the deep sea, with Yamamoto exerting transcendent Reiatsu even in his Shikai state and producing heat that consumes the clouds above while wielding a blade that turns everything before it to ash as the oldest, greatest, and most powerful of all Zanpakutō.
Approaching Shunsui and Ukitake, Yamamoto questions what they are waiting for and requests that they release their Zanpakutō so they do not get turned to ash without putting up a fight. With Shunsui observing that they do not seem to have a choice, Ukitake agrees and releases his Shikai, Sōgyo no Kotowari, transforming his sword into two identical swords, each with a second blade extending from the back toward the handle, connected at the hilt by a long cord decorated with five charms. Shunsui follows suit by crossing his two Zanpakutō perpendicularly and releasing his Shikai, Katen Kyōkotsu, transforming the two swords into Chinese scimitars with silver edges.
As he looks over the two Shikai, Yamamoto notes that Sōgyo no Kotowari and Katen Kyōkotsu are the only two dual-bladed Shikai in all of Soul Society and concludes that Shunsui and Ukitake ready to fight him together with these Shikai is a magnificent sight. After Shunsui thanks Yamamoto for stating that they have not changed one bit, Ukitake confirms that they are ready to begin anytime, and the three of them clash in an eruption of flame.
157. Cat And Hornet [ ]
As Kūkaku Shiba finds a fully recovered Jidanbō Ikkanzaka, Yoruichi Shihōin continues to fight 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng, who gains the upper hand.
In the Rukongai, two villagers observe that it sounds like Jidanbō Ikkanzaka can move now upon seeing the hut he is inside of shudder from a collision, and upon being approached by Kūkaku Shiba, who inquires if Jidanbō is in there, the two villagers are visibly intimidated. Within the hut, two more villagers ask Jidanbō if he is alright, which he confirms before thanking them for everything. As the two villagers tell Jidanbō to not be a stranger, a third points out that he should be thanking Orihime Inoue because he would have lost his arm had she not worked all those long hours to heal it. With the villagers noting that it has been five days since Orihime departed for the Seireitei and hoping that she is okay, Kūkaku has the door to the hut opened and advises them to come with her if they are concerned about Orihime, shocking those present. While the villagers deferentially greet Kūkaku and she acknowledges them, Jidanbō wonders if she came to see him, only for Kūkaku to claim that sleeping for five or six days must have left him depressed before instructing Jidanbō to take a walk with her because she is going to see Yoruichi Shihōin.
Meanwhile, in the forest near Sōkyoku Hill, Yoruichi stands across from 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng, who casts off her haori to reveal her Keisen Shōzoku underneath, which Yoruichi notes she has not seen for a while. When Suì-Fēng asks her if it brings back memories, Yoruichi coyly confirms that it has brought back a few, leading Suì-Fēng to insist that she think back and compare which of them is the better warrior before leaping forward and kicking at Yoruichi, who blocks Suì-Fēng's foot with her wrist before repeatedly and rapidly matching Suì-Fēng's kicks with punches and grabs. After she and Yoruichi trade one last blow and move back to their separate branches, Suì-Fēng notices a bruise on her left shoulder and observes that both she and Yoruichi got a hit in, making this a draw, as Yoruichi bleeds from her mouth and asserts that this is only true for now.
Wiping away the blood, Yoruichi inquires what the secret to Suì-Fēng's improved combat prowess is, but Suì-Fēng counters that she does not need a trick to fight like this and appears behind Yoruichi with Shunpo. With her Zanpakutō held near a stunned Yoruichi's face, Suì-Fēng releases her Shikai, Suzumebachi, transforming her sword into an ornate gauntlet on her right hand with a long stinger covering her middle finger. Though Yoruichi moves away, Suì-Fēng reappears behind her in midair and declares that there is no escape before stabbing Yoruichi in the abdomen. As a wounded Yoruichi lands on another tree branch, Suì-Fēng reappears on a branch opposite her and reveals that she was going easy on Yoruichi prior before berating Yoruichi for thinking she would not dare hold back. After concluding with a reminder that she told Yoruichi to not get carried away, Suì-Fēng declares that she is the stronger one now and proclaims that Yoruichi will pay the cost of being away from the front line for a hundred years with her life.
158. Sky Leopardess [ ]
Though 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng believes she has the upper hand, Yoruichi Shihōin reveals that she has been holding back as well.
Having wounded Yoruichi Shihōin with her Shikai, Suzumebachi, 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng inquires if she remembers its ability as a Hōmonka appears over Yoruichi's stomach wound, prompting Suì-Fēng to detail how Suzumebachi carves a death crest into its target's body on the first strike. Though she admits that this technique was incomplete when Yoruichi left, Suì-Fēng asserts that she has a hundred years to perfect it and that all Yoruichi can do is run around to avoid getting hit twice because Suzumebachi is fatal and nothing can survive two strikes in the same spot before appearing behind Yoruichi and initiating the second strike.
After taking strikes to her upper back and right arm, which gain Hōmonka as well, Yoruichi runs away from Suì-Fēng, who pursues her through the treetops and mocks Yoruichi for attempting to buy time until the Hōmonka disappear as she explains how they no longer have a short time limit and will only go away if she removes them herself. Suddenly, Yoruichi grips a tree branch with her hands and kicks two Anken at Suì-Fēng, who recognizes them and deflects the short blades with the gauntlet of Suzumebachi. With Suì-Fēng's right arm braced, Yoruichi lands on it with her left foot and raises her right leg above her head in preparation to bring it down, only for Suì-Fēng to counter with Takigoi, grabbing Yoruichi's foot on her arm with her other hand and trapping her raised foot with her own two feet before raising her right arm to stab at Yoruichi with Suzumebachi, leading Yoruichi to shield herself with both arms.
Suì-Fēng lands her strike on Yoruichi's cheek and lands on the forest floor alongside a panting Yoruichi, who gains a fourth Hōmonka over the cut, and points to this as evidence that she is better than Yoruichi. Declaring that this is the end, Suì-Fēng is surrounded by swirling wind-like energy, which she claims to have invented as a combination of Hakuda and Kidō that she only perfected a few days ago and which Yoruichi will be the first victim of. However, when Suì-Fēng asserts that it does not even have a name yet, Yoruichi denies this and identifies the technique as Shunkō, and as a stunned Suì-Fēng questions what she is talking about, Yoruichi inquires if she knows why the Keisen Shōzoku opens at the back and shoulders while holding out her fist, which crackles with electricity-like energy. After noting that fabric on the back and shoulders would be wasted because the technique envelops those areas in dense Kidō that draws power to the arms and legs before exploding outward, Yoruichi concludes that any fabric on the back and shoulders would be blown off the moment that the technique is activated as she activates her own Shunkō, blowing the fabric off the back and shoulders of her outfit as she gains an aura of crackling electricity-like Kidō.
With Suì-Fēng astonished by this, Yoruichi admits that she did not want to use this move against her and raises her left hand at Suì-Fēng before unleashing a massive blast of energy and revealing that she still cannot control this very well, leaving Suì-Fēng speechless.
Bleach, Volume 19
159. LONG WAY TO SAY GOODBYE [ ]
As their battle draws to a close, 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng recalls her past with Yoruichi Shihōin.
Standing across from 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng on a small patch of ground left undamaged by her energy attack, Yoruichi Shihōin, having activated her lightning-type Shunkō, inquires if Suì-Fēng now understands why Yoruichi never showed her this technique. With a stunned Suì-Fēng standing on another undamaged portion of the ground and claiming that this is impossible, Yoruichi states that she did not teach Suì-Fēng this technique because it was too dangerous. Angered by this, Suì-Fēng rushes forward and attempts to stab Yoruichi with her Shikai, Suzumebachi, while declaring that this is a lie, only for Yoruichi to neutralize her strike with Hanki and grab her hand as she concludes that Suì-Fēng is not ready for this technique yet. Suì-Fēng looks at her hand and realizes Yoruichi neutralized her Kidō with a Kidō of equal but opposite force so easily, leaving her in disbelief at Yoruichi still being stronger than her, and jabs at Yoruichi with her other hand to force the latter to release her grip before leaping back. After pointing out how she should have surpassed Yoruichi by growing more powerful while a century of isolation weakened the latter, Suì-Fēng frantically demands to know how Yoruichi can still stand before and outclass her despite this.
In the past, a child Suì-Fēng watches a younger Yoruichi garbed in an elegant kimono pass in a royal procession as a man beside Suì-Fēng identifies Yoruichi as the princess of the Shihōin Clan and the future Corps Commander of the Keigun, whom Suì-Fēng will serve with her life by acting as Yoruichi's arms and legs. Internally, Suì-Fēng admits that it felt like she was seeing a goddess in the flesh the first time she laid eyes on Yoruichi and details how her family was one of lesser nobility that had served as executioners and assassins for generations, with life in the Keigun being the destiny of every member and strength being everything to them to the point where those unfit to join were cast out and disowned. Suì-Fēng notes that she was a member of the ninth generation and the youngest of six siblings to join the Keigun before revealing that she had cast aside her original name of Fēng Shāolíng to take on her great-grandmother's name instead. As she explains how the Keigun is the highest-ranking of the five Onmitsukidō divisions and is tasked with terminating their comrades who broke the law in addition to acting as scouts against Hollows, Suì-Fēng states that two of her five brothers were killed on their first mission, two on their second, and the last one on his sixth, leaving her feeling ashamed at their lack of strength in addition to sadness at their deaths.
Thinking of Yoruichi, Suì-Fēng details how the former was the 22nd and first female head of the Shihōin Clan whose Hakuda skills were transcendent, making her noble, elegant, and frighteningly strong - everything Suì-Fēng wanted to be. After asserting that she was in awe of Yoruichi, Suì-Fēng admits that her feelings eventually went beyond admiration to worship. Seven years after enlisting, an older Suì-Fēng joins the guard corps that reports directly to the commander and kneels before Yoruichi, who sits on a cushion wearing her Commander-in-Chief attire as she greets Suì-Fēng and inquires if the latter heard. With Suì-Fēng promising to devote her body and soul to protect the commander, Yoruichi decries the term "commander" as being too formal and requests that Suì-Fēng simply call her Yoruichi, prompting a shocked Suì-Fēng to claim that she could never do this. However, upon seeing Yoruichi's expression, Suì-Fēng relents and asks to address her as Miss Yoruichi, leaving Yoruichi exasperated by her stiffness. After giving Suì-Fēng permission to do what she wants, Yoruichi clarifies that she called Suì-Fēng here because she admires the latter's skills and asserts that she does not care what Suì-Fēng calls her. Having been told that Yoruichi is expecting great things from her, a blushing Suì-Fēng enthusiastically thanks her. Suì-Fēng states that she had no doubts and was elated even in battle, to the point of swearing over and over in her heart that she would die for Yoruichi, whom she spends much time with and grows close to.
Some time later, Yoruichi suddenly vanishes from Suì-Fēng's life without even saying goodbye, and the next day, Suì-Fēng hears of the charges levied against Yoruichi: desertion, helping Kisuke Urahara escape, and eluding arrest, resulting in Yoruichi no longer being the Commander-in-Chief of the Onmitsukidō or the Corps Commander of the Keigun, which Suì-Fēng considers a scandal and a betrayal by her personal god.
In the present, as she continues to attack Yoruichi with her own Shunkō, Suì-Fēng details how she lost all respect for Yoruichi and cursed her name while swearing to become stronger than her and eventually capture Yoruichi with her own hands. However, though Suì-Fēng claims that she will never forgive Yoruichi for betraying her respect and trust, when she has her assault stopped by a blast from Yoruichi that leaves her fist held inches from Suì-Fēng's face and ruptures the ground behind Yoruichi, Suì-Fēng tearfully inquires why Yoruichi did not take Suì-Fēng with her and falls to her knees in sadness, leaving Yoruichi to look down at her somberly.
160. Battle On Guillotine Hill [ ]
While 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame and 7th Division Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba continue their periodic fight, Ichigo Kurosaki demands that 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki use his Bankai in their battle.
In a clearing within the forest surrounding Sōkyoku Hill, 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame observes the lightning that occurred nearby and claims that it would have struck them had he swung his sword, prompting 7th Division Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba to berate him for not realizing this was actually Kidō and that they are in no danger because it was aimed at something else while drinking sake from a gourd. When Iba tosses the gourd to him and admonishes him for not learning how to perform Kidō, Ikkaku catches the gourd and drinks from it as well as he sits against a tree and asserts that spells are simply not his style. While Ikkaku claims to have not been born with versatile powers like Iba was, Iba clarifies that he was not born like this either, but simply trained for versatility because one is more likely to become a lieutenant if they are well-rounded than if they are simply proficient in one area of combat. Though Ikkaku comments that this does not sound like much fun as he tosses the gourd back, Iba declares that a man should aim to rise through the ranks and that it is indeed fun while catching the gourd. However, Ikkaku counters that this is merely what Chikane Iba wanted, though Iba questions why he would want to be a lieutenant for a witch like his mother.
Suddenly, as Ikkaku begins to address something, Iba observes that they are out of sake, prompting a shocked Ikkaku to berate Iba for drinking it too fast, and when Iba states that sake is subject to the laws of nature like everything else, an incredulous Ikkaku inquires if he is implying that the sake evaporated. After agreeing to do it once again, Ikkaku and Iba repeatedly play janken until Iba wins, at which point he moves to the top of the nearby cliff while attributing Ikkaku's loss to him being bad at janken. Suddenly, the two of them hear a loud explosion of force on Sōkyoku Hill, leading Iba to inquire who is fighting 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki because he does not recognize the Reiatsu. Upon being told that it is likely Ichigo Kurosaki, Iba asks if he is from the Eleventh Division, only for Ikkaku to question why someone from the Eleventh Division would be fighting Byakuya and clarify that Ichigo is a Ryoka whom he fought once before. With Iba commenting on how Ichigo must be strong and that it would be fun to fight someone like that, Ikkaku notes that Iba is a warrior to his core and picks up his Shikai, Hōzukimaru, while declaring that it is time that they picked up where they left off. Affirming this, Iba holds up his own Shikai and reminds Ikkaku that whoever loses has to get more sake, and after Ikkaku continues that whoever wins gets to rest, the two of them conclude that easing up will result in death before resuming their clash.
Meanwhile, on Sōkyoku Hill, Ichigo and Byakuya clash repeatedly, eventually overturning a section of the ground with the force of their blows as the ground underneath Byakuya ruptures from Ichigo's subsequent overhead strike with his Shikai, Zangetsu. After separating and moving several meters apart to stand on separate chunks of ground, Byakuya observes that Ichigo has mastered Shunpo as well and begins to downplay this, but Ichigo interrupts him by commenting on his cool-headed nature and asserts that Byakuya analyzing him like he is not a threat is just an act before reminding Byakuya of his promise to kill Ichigo. Pointing out how Byakuya has not even scratched him yet and demanding to see his Bankai, Ichigo reiterates Byakuya's promise to kill him and execute Rukia Kuchiki himself. Though Byakuya questions why this matters, Ichigo proclaims that Byakuya makes him sick and that he plans to hit Byakuya with everything he has got while crushing all of the latter's powers because of how twisted his promise to execute his own sister is. As he concludes that he does not care about Byakuya's sense of duty or honor, Ichigo asserts that he will never let Byakuya say this in front of Rukia again and demands once more that Byakuya activate his Bankai so he can crush it and make Byakuya beg Rukia for forgiveness.
Despite this, Byakuya refuses to change his mind or both Ichigo and Rukia's fates regardless of what Ichigo says and declares that he will not need to use his Bankai against Ichigo for at least a thousand years before releasing his Shikai, Senbonzakura, which separates the blade of his Zanpakutō into a thousand blade petals that swirl around him. However, as the blade petals approach him, an unfazed Ichigo unleashes a Getsuga Tenshō that tears through the entirety of Senbonzakura in one blast, stunning Byakuya.
161. Scratch the Sky [ ]
With Ichigo Kurosaki having broken through his Shikai with the power of his Getsuga Tenshō, 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki gives into his demands and activates his Bankai.
Ichigo Kurosaki 's Getsuga Tenshō surges off the side of Sōkyoku Hill, and as the dust clears, 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki stands as one of his tekkō falls off his injured left arm, which begins to bleed. With Byakuya questioning if this flash of light was the power of his Zanpakutō, Ichigo stands in front of a large chasm with his Shikai, Zangetsu, over his shoulder and confirms this before explaining that the Getsuga Tenshō consists of Zangetsu absorbing his Reiryoku at the moment of attack and firing highly concentrated Reiatsu from the tip, which is then magnified and discharged. Admitting that he could not use it at will and did not even know how to discharge it until today, Ichigo recounts Kisuke Urahara stating that all he could teach Ichigo was the proper state of mind, which he finally understood after training with Zangetsu because the latter was the only one who could teach him about Zangetsu.
In the past, Ichigo fights off several clones of Zangetsu and finally succeeds in firing a Getsuga Tenshō at will, leading Zangetsu to dispel his clones and explain to Ichigo that the energy released by this technique differs greatly depending on whether or not Ichigo knows its name before relaying its name to Ichigo.
In the present, Ichigo tells Byakuya the name of Getsuga Tenshō and embeds Zangetsu in the ground as he demands once again that Byakuya use his Bankai. After sarcastically commenting on how glorious the name Getsuga Tenshō is, Byakuya decides to give Ichigo what he wants and drops his Zanpakutō onto the ground, which it sinks into like water, while promising a surprised Ichigo that he will be gone like dust in the wind before he can regret his decision. With two long rows of massive blades rising up behind him, Byakuya activates his Bankai, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, causing the blades to split apart into innumerable blade petals that surge toward Ichigo, who grabs Zangetsu and leaps away while Senbonzakura Kageyoshi crashes into the ground where he was standing. While Senbonzakura Kageyoshi follows him into the air, Ichigo fires another Getsuga Tenshō directly at Byakuya, only for the latter to casually block and disperse it with Senbonzakura Kageyoshi. Suddenly, Ichigo finds Senbonzakura Kageyoshi massing behind him in midair, and as one of the blade petals cuts his shoulder, Ichigo turns and attempts to block the swarm with Zangetsu, only for the remainder of Senbonzakura Kageyoshi surrounding Byakuya to join the rest and overpower Ichigo, who is slammed into the ground in a flurry of blade petals.
As the dust clears, Byakuya details how Senbonzakura Kageyoshi is an attack comprised of millions of blades coming from all directions and asserts that Ichigo will never be able to evade it with a slow technique like Getsuga Tenshō despite how powerful Zangetsu is while a wounded and bleeding Ichigo lies in a large crater created by the attack. However, with Byakuya turning away, Ichigo merely berates himself for thinking that he could beat a Bankai with a Shikai, and when Byakuya admonishes him for not thinking before he speaks because his words imply that he has achieved Bankai, Ichigo confirms that this is exactly what he is saying as he stands up.
162. Black Moon Rising [ ]
Despite 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki refusing to believe that he can do so, Ichigo Kurosaki activates his Bankai.
With 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki stunned by what he just said, a wounded Ichigo Kurosaki questions if Byakuya is going to make him say it again or if the latter does not believe what he is seeing before proclaiming that he is nowhere near finished. As he holds his Shikai, Zangetsu, out to the side, Ichigo tells Byakuya to watch closely in order to see his Bankai and yells loudly. Ichigo's Reiatsu begins surging around him, and as he watches this, a stunned Byakuya mentally asserts that this is impossible because only the most experienced Shinigami can perform Bankai, with even the four Noble Houses whose members are born with Reiatsu surpassing all others only having one member in several generations ever attain that level of power, to the point that the names of those who have achieved Bankai are etched into the history of Soul Society. Looking at Ichigo, Byakuya wonders how he could dream of achieving Bankai when he became a Shinigami on borrowed powers and has no noble lineage in addition to not being a proper Shinigami.
While Byakuya is unable to comprehend how he can be emitting such astounding Reiatsu, Ichigo points Zangetsu in front of him and grips it with both hands before activating his Bankai, which releases an explosion of energy that blasts off the edge of Sōkyoku Hill. The dust and energy clear before an astonished Byakuya to reveal Ichigo standing with his Bankai, Tensa Zangetsu, consisting of a ragged black coat with a red lining and a pure black daitō. Despite this, Byakuya refuses to believe that what he perceives to be an ordinary Zanpakutō could be a Bankai and assumes that this is simply Ichigo gleefully treading on something else the Shinigami hold sacred as he did with the execution ceremony. However, as Byakuya moves to attack with his Bankai, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, while declaring that he will cut Ichigo down for insulting their pride, he suddenly finds Ichigo holding the tip of Tensa Zangetsu to his throat before he can react, stunning him. Ichigo observes that Byakuya's pride demands that he kill Rukia Kuchiki and steps back before proclaiming that stepping on this pride is the reason why he achieved Bankai as he levels Tensa Zangetsu at Byakuya.
163. THE Speed Phantom 2 [Denial by Pride, Contradiction by Power] [ ]
Though 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki still does not believe he is using Bankai, Ichigo Kurosaki quickly disproves this by countering Senbonzakura Kageyoshi.
6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki recalls how he briefly lost sight of Ichigo Kurosaki when attacking the latter with his Bankai, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, after the latter activated his own Bankai, Tensa Zangetsu, and admits that he could not react in time when Ichigo held the tip of his sword to Byakuya's throat. Looking at Ichigo standing before him, Byakuya questions if Ichigo withdrew his blade out of overconfidence and asserts that arrogance destroys the footholds of victory before claiming that Tensa Zangetsu cannot possibly be a Bankai due to its miserable size and Ichigo himself being a Ryoka. After warning Ichigo that he will regret not slitting Byakuya's throat when he had the chance because one only gets a single miracle per battle, Byakuya promises that Ichigo will not get a second chance and attacks him with Senbonzakura Kageyoshi.
At the last second, Ichigo evades the swarm of blade petals, which slices through the rocks behind him, and dodges another stream of Senbonzakura Kageyoshi sent by Byakuya before landing in front of him and slashing at him with his sword. When a surprised Byakuya blocks the strike with Senbonzakura Kageyoshi and attacks him from the side, Ichigo rapidly moves behind Byakuya before the petals reach him and falls onto his hand to duck below another stream sent at him, allowing him to handspring behind Byakuya once again while the latter turns to face the area where he was located prior. Astonished by Ichigo's speed while the latter continues to evade Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, Byakuya wonders if his Bankai cannot catch Ichigo, who begins moving so fast that he generates several afterimages of himself around Byakuya.
With Ichigo questioning if he cannot keep up and noting that he can still go faster, Byakuya tells him to not get carried away and gestures with his left hand at Ichigo, who realizes Senbonzakura Kageyoshi is speeding up and narrowly dodges the two streams of blade petals that subsequently crash into the area where he was located. Internally, Byakuya details how controlling Senbonzakura Kageyoshi with his hands makes it move twice as fast and asserts that there is no one whom he cannot catch before converging the entirety of Senbonzakura Kageyoshi onto Ichigo in midair, which he believes will be the finishing blow. However, Ichigo merely slashes all the blade petals around him away with hundreds of rapid strikes with his sword, leaving Byakuya staring in shock at him having swatted them all away, and reminds Byakuya of his claim that one can only have a single miracle per battle as he appears behind Byakuya and inquires what this is before stabbing at him.
Byakuya turns around and catches the blade of Ichigo's sword near the hilt with his right hand before it can pierce his body, and as blood spurts into the air from his injured hand, Byakuya concludes that Tensa Zangetsu concentrates all its power into this small blade so Ichigo can fight with maximum force at hyper-speed. Acknowledging this as the secret ability of Ichigo's Bankai, Byakuya proclaims that he will simply crush that power and Ichigo along with it.
164. That Who Change the World [ ]
While Ichigo Kurosaki 's friends reach the top of Sōkyoku Hill to witness his battle, 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki decides to use his strongest Bankai technique.
On the steps leading up to Sōkyoku Hill, the Ryoka Invasion and Makizō Aramaki run up while discussing how incredible the Reiatsu they are experiencing is and how it is getting heavier the closer they get to the top. Though uncertain if it is really Ichigo Kurosaki 's Reiatsu, upon reaching the summit, Orihime Inoue, Yasutora Sado, Uryū Ishida, and Ganju Shiba are stunned by the intense Reiatsu emanating from beyond the dead white trees in front of them. With Uryū and Ganju unable to tell if Ichigo is beyond the trees, Orihime asserts that she does not need to see because the scent of Ichigo's Reiatsu stays the same no matter how strong he grows. When Sado notes that he cannot sense Rukia Kuchiki 's Reiatsu even though she was supposed to be up here, 11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi reveals that she got away while sitting on a nearby tree branch. Sado questions why Ichigo is still fighting if Rukia got away, prompting Uryū to explain that he must be up against a powerful adversary and that the Gotei 13 would still come after Rukia even if Ichigo got her out, meaning that she will not be safe until he has broken the enemy completely and crushed all hope of executing her. As Uryū concludes that Ichigo is risking his life, a trembling Aramaki claims that they are all crazy to be going this far for a mere friend, but as Uryū attempts to counter this, Orihime firmly asserts that there is nothing mere about it and that Rukia means a lot to Ichigo because she changed his whole world.
On the other side of the trees, a surprised Ichigo pulls his bloodied sword out of 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki 's grasp and leaps back. However, Byakuya simply tells Ichigo to observe the true form of his Bankai, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, taken when it has abandoned all defense and dedicated itself only to offense, and initiates Senkei while his blade petals mass overhead and form a thousand large swords that begin rotating in four rows around the two of them. With Ichigo intimidated by this, Byakuya explains that the swords will not strike him all at once and that this is a technique he reserves for those whom he has sworn to kill by his own hand as he summons one of the swords to his bloody right hand. As Byakuya concludes that he is only the second person to ever see it, Ichigo claims to feel special, and after Byakuya inquires if he is ready, Ichigo leaps forward alongside Byakuya, embedding footprints in and shattering the ground where they were standing, and clash fiercely, resulting in an explosion of energy that rips out of the Senkei barrier around them.
Watching from behind the trees, the Ryoka are startled by the shockwave that hits them, leading Ganju to question what Ichigo and Byakuya are doing to each other. Though Uryū suggests that she stand back a little since they cannot do much from here, Orihime thanks him, but states that she is going to stay right here as she braces herself. Internally, Uryū observes that Orihime knows she will only get in the way if she tries to help and Ichigo would not want her to even if she could help him, yet has to fight to hold herself back all the same. While he concludes that Orihime is waiting and praying for Ichigo, Uryū mentally warns Ichigo that he will have to answer to Uryū if he does not win as Ichigo and Byakuya continue to clash.
165. Dark Side of Universe 2 [ ]
Ichigo Kurosaki finds himself outmatched and exhausted against 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki 's Senkei, leading to an unexpected emergence.
While blood spatters on one of the Senkei swords rotating around them, Ichigo Kurosaki and 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki clash fiercely in the center of the circular rows. When their blades pass each other and manage to strike, Ichigo and Byakuya leap back with fresh wounds as Ichigo mentally asserts that Byakuya has been getting faster ever since he activated Senkei, though he believes that he can still go a little faster too. Suddenly, Ichigo finds the tip of Byakuya's sword about to pierce him between the eyes, and as Ichigo narrowly evades this and receives a cut on his right cheek, Byakuya seemingly passes by him, leading Ichigo to look to his right, only for Byakuya to appear behind him and stab his sword at Ichigo's neck. Upon noticing this, Ichigo pushes down Byakuya's sword with his own and moves into a blade lock, prompting Byakuya to inquire why Ichigo is slowing down. Though Ichigo points out that he is still fast enough to block Byakuya's sword, Byakuya calls down another sword from the topmost row to his left hand and embeds it into Ichigo's right foot. With Ichigo reeling in pain, Byakuya places his left index finger against Ichigo's right shoulder and uses Hadō #4. Byakurai, firing a beam of energy all the way through a stunned Ichigo's shoulder that leaves a smoking hole.
Byakuya pulls out the sword embedded in Ichigo's foot, allowing the latter to stumble forward, and observes that he has reached his limit. As a confused and bloodied Ichigo realizes that he cannot move, Byakuya brings up Ichigo's theory that Senkei increased his speed and clarifies that Senkei simply condenses the blade petals of his Bankai, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, into the shape of a sword and explosively increases their lethality while leaving his speed unchanged. With Ichigo realizing that he just got slower, Byakuya admits that he did well to defeat captain-class Shinigami and survive a direct attack from Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, but concludes that Ichigo is already a corpse no matter how hard he tries, which Ichigo should feel as well, before declaring that this is as far as Ichigo goes while preparing to deliver the finishing blow.
Seeing this, Ichigo frantically orders his body to move because nothing will change unless he wins, as just fighting or surviving means nothing. However, when a nearly-unconscious Ichigo asserts that he wants to win, Hollow Ichigo scoffs at this while Ichigo's hand grabs Byakuya's sword by the blade mid-swing. As Hollow Ichigo reiterates that he cannot allow Ichigo to die, a shocked Byakuya inquires who he is, prompting Hollow Ichigo to claim that he does not have a name while a Hollow mask begins forming over the left side of his face.
166. Black & White 2 [ ]
After Hollow Ichigo grievously wounds 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki, Ichigo Kurosaki regains control so they can finish their duel.
Having been asked by 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki who he is, Hollow Ichigo, having taken possession of Ichigo Kurosaki 's body, claims to have no name before slashing Byakuya diagonally across the chest with the sword of Ichigo's Bankai, Tensa Zangetsu. With a large amount of blood spattering on the ground from a badly wounded Byakuya, Hollow Ichigo laughs maniacally and berates Ichigo as not being good enough because of how his bones are creaking from the weight of his own Reiatsu. Crushing the Senkei sword that Byakuya was using in his left hand, Hollow Ichigo declares that he will show Ichigo how to use Bankai, and as Byakuya calls another sword to his hand, Hollow Ichigo unleashes a black Getsuga Tenshō, shocking Byakuya with its different color, and moves to Byakuya's left before unleashing another black Getsuga Tenshō. However, as Byakuya prepares to counter the two blasts approaching him, Hollow Ichigo suddenly appears behind Byakuya and attacks him, allowing both Getsuga Tenshō to slam into him in a large explosion of energy.
While the dust settles to reveal a further wounded Byakuya, whose kenseikan shatters as he questions if Hollow Ichigo is a Hollow due to his Reiatsu and strange mask, Hollow Ichigo stands across from him and dismisses the answer as irrelevant for Byakuya, only to be interrupted when his left hand grabs the still-forming mask on his face. With Byakuya staring in astonishment, Hollow Ichigo struggles to stop his left hand from tearing off the mask and proclaims that they can win if Ichigo leaves this to him, but Ichigo internally demands that he disappear and stop interfering before successfully ripping off the mask and regaining control of his body. After Ichigo apologizes for the interruption and suggests that they start over, a stunned Byakuya realizes that even though Ichigo could cut him while being controlled, this is not what the latter wanted. Smiling, Byakuya agrees to this and decides to not ask Ichigo about the entity controlling him before observing that they should let the next clash decide this battle since neither of them have much strength left.
As he affirms this, Ichigo asks Byakuya once more why he did not try to save Rukia Kuchiki, which Byakuya promises to answer if Ichigo defeats him, to Ichigo's amusement. Byakuya initiates Shūkei: Hakuteiken, condensing his Bankai, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, into a large pair of wings connected by a halo behind him and a long sword in his hand, and after admitting that he does not have any awesome moves like this due to Zangetsu only teaching him the Getsuga Tenshō, Ichigo concludes that the only thing he can do is channel all his Reiatsu into one blow, which he proceeds to do. With a large tendril of black Reiatsu emanating from his sword, Ichigo leaps toward Byakuya, who follows suit, and the two clash one last time in an explosion of white and black Reiatsu.
167. The Burial Chamber [ ]
6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki concedes victory to Ichigo Kurosaki while 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya and his lieutenant, Rangiku Matsumoto, make a horrifying discovery.
While Shinigami around the Seireitei stare in shock at the conclusion of the clash atop Sōkyoku Hill, Ichigo Kurosaki stands behind and facing away from 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki, where blood spurts from a fresh wound on his back and he is forced to prop himself up with the sword of his Bankai, Tensa Zangetsu, before he falls over. As Ichigo refuses to fall down, blood spurts from a fresh wound on Byakuya's chest, prompting him to look at his injured hand and recall Ichigo's sword piercing through the blade of his Shūkei: Hakuteiken during their final clash. Byakuya brings up Ichigo's desire to know why he did not try to save Rukia Kuchiki, and with Ichigo looking back at him, Byakuya asserts that lawbreakers must face justice and be punished according to their crimes because this is the law. When Ichigo questions if he was going to kill his own sister to uphold the law, Byakuya states that sympathy for one's own kin is unworthy, stunning Ichigo, and that familial devotion is nothing next to the law. Affirming that he must not succumb to sentimentality, Byakuya concludes that the Kuchiki Clan is one of the four great Noble Houses who must set an example for all Shinigami and that no one will uphold the law if they do not.
However, Ichigo admits that he still does not get it and declares that he would have fought the law if he were in Byakuya's position, leading Byakuya to recall 13th Division Lieutenant Kaien Shiba as he realizes that he was never Ichigo's enemy since the latter has been fighting the laws of Soul Society. After noting that Ichigo is similar to Kaien, whose ferocity he found distasteful, Byakuya informs Ichigo that his ferocity has broken Byakuya's sword and that he will no longer pursue Rukia before disappearing with Shunpo while ceding victory to Ichigo, who celebrates having won, only to find himself wobbling and barely able to stand due to blood loss. Suddenly, the back of Ichigo's head collides with Orihime Inoue 's face, causing him to fall over while Orihime apologizes for her hard head and explains that she was trying to catch him.
As Ichigo expresses surprise at Orihime being here, Yasutora Sado, Uryū Ishida, Ganju Shiba, and Makizō Aramaki approach as well while Uryū comments on Ichigo being in such good spirits despite being covered in blood. After inquiring who Aramaki is and being told by an exasperated Aramaki to ignore him, Ichigo expresses relief at his friends being okay, though Uryū clarifies that they are not okay and are only unscathed compared to Ichigo himself. When Ichigo asks her if she is hurt, Orihime frantically denies this and recounts how Uryū protected her alongside the Shinigami, with 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki even giving her a ride, before tearfully admitting that she was not in any danger and was just worried about Ichigo. Apologizing for being unable to protect Ichigo, Orihime thanks him for not getting killed and expresses gratitude at him being alright, which Ichigo thanks her for.
Meanwhile, in the Central 46 Compound, having descended the steps and passed through the thirteen protective walls leading to the Central Underground Assembly Hall, 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya and his lieutenant, Rangiku Matsumoto, are mortified to discover the corpses of the entire Central 46 lying in their chairs with various injuries.
168. Behind Me,Behind You [ ]
Having discovered the entirety of Central 46 slaughtered in their council chamber, 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya and Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto are diverted by 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira, who is behaving enigmatically.
10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya mentally details how Central 46 is comprised of six judges and forty sages brought together from all across Soul Society, acting as the highest court in the realm where crimes committed by Shinigami are tried, with the power to enforce a ruling by calling upon the Gotei 13, Onmitsukidō, or Kidō, and whose rulings are so absolute that not even a captain can dissent once they are made, only to conclude that the Central Underground Assembly Hall is now a slaughterhouse as he and his lieutenant, Rangiku Matsumoto, stand among the corpses of the Central 46 lying in their seats. Running two fingers across the blood pooled on one of the tables, Hitsugaya observes that it is dry, brown, and flaking, meaning that the Central 46 was not killed today or yesterday. Internally, Hitsugaya wonders when this could have happened because the underground chamber should have been completely sealed after 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai was defeated and the special wartime order was proclaimed, meaning that no one would have been allowed anywhere near here, and all thirteen protective walls were closed with no sign of entry when he and Rangiku forced their way in today, which leads him to realize that the Central 46 has been dead for some time and that all the orders they have received regarding Rukia Kuchiki 's execution were false.
Initially assuming that 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru did this, Hitsugaya is uncertain that one man could massacre the highest court and keep it secret alone, but as he questions if others were involved, Hitsugaya is alerted when 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira states that he knew Hitsugaya would come as he stands at the top of the stairs leading into the chamber. With Hitsugaya demanding to know if he did this, Izuru leaps out of sight, prompting Hitsugaya and Rangiku to run after him while a mysterious figure lurks behind the other entrance leading into the chamber. Pursuing Izuru outside, Hitsugaya demands to know if he killed them, but Izuru denies this and reveals that he was let in only moments before Hitsugaya and Rangiku arrived by those within opening the lock and letting him inside. When Hitsugaya inquires who let him in, Izuru asserts that the Central 46 did, to Hitsugaya's confusion and chagrin, and notes that Hitsugaya should be protecting 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori rather than chasing him.
Though an unnerved Hitsugaya is unsure of what he is talking about, Izuru informs him that Hinamori is no longer in the Tenth Division's barracks and recounts how Hitsugaya used Kyōmon to surround the room Hinamori was sleeping in with a high-level barrier that deflects attacks from the outside, thinking this would keep her safe. However, Izuru points out that Kyōmon is meant to keep people out and not in as he reminds Hitsugaya that Hinamori is a master of Kidō who could easily break such a barrier and put one around herself to conceal her Reiatsu while she moved about. With Izuru concluding that Hinamori has been following Hitsugaya and Rangiku this whole time, a stunned Hitsugaya asks Rangiku to deal with Izuru in his stead, which she affirms, and leaps back to return to the Central 46 Compound. Rangiku is surprised when Izuru stops running, and when Izuru explains that his task was to stop her here, Rangiku asks him if Gin gave him this task, only for Izuru to assert that he does not have to answer her. As Rangiku questions what is wrong with him and wonders if Gin told him something, Izuru inquires why he should answer to a dead woman, shocking Rangiku, and releases his Shikai, Wabisuke.
Meanwhile, as he rushes toward the compound, Hitsugaya berates himself for not realizing Hinamori would follow him because she believes that he killed her captain, Sousuke Aizen, and that she would come after him if it meant dragging herself on the ground for Aizen's sake even though he believed that she would not be able to move so soon. Back in the Central Underground Assembly Hall, a stunned Hinamori stands at one of the entrances and wonders is going on as she stares at the dead council members. While Hinamori recounts what she witnessed and questions why Hitsugaya was so shocked at this if he killed Aizen and by extension the council members, leading her to question if Izuru did it, Gin approaches her from behind and leans over her shoulder as he greets her.
Bleach, Volume 20
169. end of hypnosis [ ]
While 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto begins fighting 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira, 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori is reunited with her captain, Sousuke Aizen.
Facing down 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto on a rooftop, 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira holds his Reiatsu -emitting Shikai, Wabisuke, and inquires if Rangiku does not know what it can do, prompting Rangiku to confirm that she does not and question if anybody does because Izuru is not the type to divulge such things. After noting that 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori and 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai probably know, Izuru decides to show Rangiku as well and moves to her side before slashing at Rangiku, who draws her Zanpakutō just in time to block. With Rangiku forced back by the force of their clash, Izuru praises her reactions, though Rangiku demands that he not talk down to her, and the two cross blades several more times. Suddenly, Izuru asks Rangiku how many times she blocked his sword, and as she expresses confusion, Rangiku is pulled down by her Zanpakutō, which shatters a roof tile as it lands on the ground.
Izuru explains that Wabisuke doubles the weight of whatever it strikes and continues doing so with each successive strike until the defender can bear the weight no more and grovels on the ground with their head bowed as if in penitence, per the name. As he observes that Rangiku blocked seven of his blows with Wabisuke, Izuru assumes that an average sword weighs close to 2 lbs and concludes that, after being doubled seven times, Rangiku's Zanpakutō now weighs 225 lbs, which he does not consider a nimble weight. Despite this, Rangiku merely asserts that she intends to hit Gin with her Zanpakutō rather than twirl it like a baton and releases her Shikai, Haineko, transforming the blade of her Zanpakutō into a cloud of ash, as she wonders what 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru has done to Izuru, what he wants with her, and where he intends to go while recalling Gin leaving her when they were children.
Meanwhile, within the Central 46 Compound, Hinamori follows Gin to the Seijōtōkyorin, the quarters of the Central 46, and inquires why Gin has brought her here. Upon being asked by Gin if she has ever been here before, Hinamori denies having even seen it prior because it is off-limits. However, while entering a dark room, Gin reveals that there is someone he wants Hinamori to see and instructs her to look at the doorway behind her, where Hinamori is stunned to see her captain, Sousuke Aizen, standing calmly. With Aizen asking her how she has been, Hinamori expresses disbelief at seeing him again after thinking he was dead, but Aizen simply notes that he is clearly alive. Walking up to Aizen, Hinamori grasps his haori and begins to tear up, leading Aizen to apologize for how heartbroken she must have felt as he caresses her head. Internally, Hinamori details how his hand heals her heart as it did the night before his supposed death and realizes by smell that it really is Aizen, causing her to begin sobbing.
Startled, Aizen hugs Hinamori and observes that she has lost weight before claiming to have no idea how badly he had hurt her. As Aizen explains that it had to be her and that he had to stay hidden to do something, which is why he faked his death and had her receive his letter, Hinamori assures him that it is alright and that knowing he is alive is enough for her. Aizen tells Hinamori that their time together was a joy to him and thanks her, only to bid her farewell as he shoves his Zanpakutō through her chest. Left speechless by this, Hinamori looks up at Aizen, who merely stares coldly at her and pulls his Zanpakutō out, leaving Hinamori to collapse, before departing alongside Gin.
170. end of hypnosis2 [the Galvanizer] [ ]
Having revealed his true nature, 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen is confronted by 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya.
Walking out of the room alongside 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru, 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen smiles maliciously as he leaves his lieutenant, Momo Hinamori, lying unconscious and gravely wounded on the floor in a pool of blood. Suddenly, 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya arrives and is shocked to see Aizen standing alongside Gin. While Aizen greets him, Hitsugaya questions if it is really him, prompting Aizen to assure him that he is here in the flesh before noting to Gin that Hitsugaya is back sooner than expected. With Gin apologizing and assuming that his lieutenant, Izuru Kira, must have failed, a confused Hitsugaya wonders what they are talking about, which leads Aizen to reveal that he is referring to the tactic of dividing and conquering, the most basic way of weakening an enemy. Perplexed by being referred to as the enemy, Hitsugaya demands to know where Hinamori is, and as Aizen points out that he should already know, Hitsugaya angrily rushes past him and Gin to the dark room, where he discovers Hinamori lying on the ground.
Aizen expresses embarrassment at Hitsugaya having found her and apologizes for him finding out like this before suggesting that he should have chopped up Hinamori and hidden the pieces. Stunned by this, Hitsugaya asks Aizen and Gin how long they have been conspiring together. When Aizen answers that they have done so from the beginning, Hitsugaya assumes that he is referring to the period before he faked his death, but Aizen clarifies that he has never considered anyone but Gin to be his lieutenant ever since he became a captain. With Hitsugaya accusing him of having deceived Hinamori and the other Shinigami this whole time, Aizen claims that he never thought of it like this and that he perceived it as none of the other Shinigami recognizing his true identity. Demanding to know how Aizen could blame them and be so cruel, Hitsugaya reminds him that Hinamori joined the Gotei 13 and worked hard just to be at his side, only for Aizen to acknowledge this as making her very easy to manipulate and pointing to this as the reason he requested her to join his division. As Hitsugaya stares at him in astonishment, Aizen instructs him to remember that admiration is the state furthest from understanding.
In response, Hitsugaya grasps his Zanpakutō and unleashes a surge of power that destroys the Seijōtōkyorin, leading Aizen and Gin to leap out to the ground outside, before activating his Bankai, Daiguren Hyōrinmaru, which grants him a large pair of ice wings, an ice dragon encasing his right arm and ice claws on his left hand, and twelve large ice petals comprising three lotuses floating in the air behind him. However, as Hitsugaya declares that he is going to kill Aizen, the latter simply admonishes Hitsugaya for making rash threats because it makes him seem weak and slashes Hitsugaya across the chest, leaving him to collapse in shock while bleeding heavily as Daiguren Hyōrinmaru breaks apart.
171. end of hypnosis3 [the Blue Fog] [ ]
5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen is confronted by 4th Division Captain Retsu Unohana, where he reveals his effective method of deception.
Having been cut down by 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen while attempting to attack with his Bankai, Daiguren Hyōrinmaru, 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya collapses in the ice-encrusted chamber within the Central 46 Compound. As he comments on how nice it is to see ice at this time of year despite it being the wrong season, Aizen suggests to 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru that they depart, only to be confronted by 4th Division Captain Retsu Unohana and her lieutenant, Isane Kotetsu. Unohana asserts that she thought she would find Aizen here and corrects her addressing of him as Captain Aizen, since he is simply a traitor now. After greeting Unohana, Aizen inquires if it really took her this long to figure out where he was, and when Unohana details how the Seijōtōkyorin being the only absolutely off-limits area in the Seireitei makes it the perfect place to hide for someone who had elaborately faked his own death and made a corpse doll, Aizen admits that she is almost correct before clarifying that he did not come here to hide and that his fake body was not a doll as he holds it in his hand.
With a shocked Unohana and Isane wondering when he got his fake body, Aizen states that he had it in his hand the entire time, but simply did not allow them to see it until now. After promising that they will understand soon enough, Aizen releases his Shikai, Kyōka Suigetsu, causing the fake body in his hands to burst apart, revealing his Zanpakutō held upside-down in his hand. While Unohana and Isane stare in astonishment, Aizen lets go of his Zanpakutō, which embeds itself in the platform underneath his feet, and explains that its ability is complete hypnosis. Though Isane asserts that he brought the lieutenants together and showed them how Kyōka Suigetsu is a water-type Zanpakutō that uses reflections of fog and water to confuse enemies so they kill each other, Aizen merely smiles, leading Unohana to realize that this is when he hypnotized everyone. Confirming this, Aizen details how Kanzen Saimin disrupts all five senses of its victims and allows them to see whatever he wants, such as a fly as a dragon or a swamp as a flower garden. After noting that the spell is activated when a victim sees the release of Kyōka Suigetsu, Aizen elaborates that even seeing it once places victims underneath its hypnotic power and that the hypnotic control returns each time he releases Kyōka Suigetsu.
Suddenly, Unohana picks up on Aizen's mention of seeing the release and is mortified by the implication, prompting Aizen to deduce what has just occurred to her and affirm that the spell will not work against a blind person since it must be seen in order to function before concluding that 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen has been working for him from the very beginning. In a different part of the Seireitei, as 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai runs through the streets with Rukia Kuchiki in his arms, he is confronted by Tōsen, and as a surprised Renji questions what he is doing here, Tōsen begins spinning a long cloth around the three of them, to Renji's confusion. Back in the Central 46 Compound, Gin performs the same maneuver around himself and Aizen, who takes a moment to praise Unohana for examining his fake body far more thoroughly than anyone else did because feeling even a bit of suspicion while under the effects of Kanzen Saimin is most remarkable. With Aizen bidding them farewell and stating that he will likely never see them again while Isane attempts to attack, he and Gin vanish in a burst of light.
Renji finds himself kneeling with Rukia on Sōkyoku Hill after Tōsen stops spinning the cloth, and as he wonders what this is all about, Aizen appears behind Renji with Gin and welcomes him before instructing Renji to put Rukia down and leave.
172. end of hypnosis4 [Prisoners in Paradise] [ ]
4th Division Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu informs the Gotei 13 and the Ryoka of 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen 's betrayal.
Confronted by 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen on Sōkyoku Hill, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai holds Rukia Kuchiki in his arms and begins to express his shock at seeing Aizen alive, only to decide against it and focus on the latter's request, which he does not understand. Asserting that Renji must have heard him and questioning if he must repeat himself as he stands with 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru and 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen, Aizen reiterates his instructions for Renji to leave Rukia here and run away.
Back in the Central 46 Compound, 4th Division Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu kneels before her captain, Retsu Unohana, and draws a seal on the ground before performing Bakudō #58. Kakushitsuijaku, allowing her to locate Aizen and the others on Sōkyoku Hill. Upon learning this, Unohana tells Isane to inform all captains and lieutenants of what they have learned about Aizen as well as his location, and after adding that she should inform the Ryoka as well, which Isane affirms, Unohana ascends the platform and states that she is counting on Isane to do this while she does her best to save 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya and 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori as she prepares to draw her Zanpakutō. Behind Unohana, Isane draws angled patterns on her arms and hands before making several seals as she performs Bakudō #77. Tenteikūra, which connects her to the minds of Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto, 1st Division Lieutenant Chōjirō Sasakibe, 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng, Lieutenant Marechiyo Ōmaeda, 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura, Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba, 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku, Lieutenant Nanao Ise, 9th Division Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi, 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki, Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi, 12th Division Lieutenant Nemu Kurotsuchi, 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake, 3rd Seats Sentarō Kotsubaki and Kiyone Kotetsu, Ichigo Kurosaki, Yasutora Sado, and Uryū Ishida in addition to the other captain- and lieutenant-level Shinigami around the Seireitei.
Addressing the combatants, Isane identifies herself and requests that they heed this urgent message from herself and Unohana before informing them of the situation. After Isane finishes, a bloodied Ukitake expresses disbelief at the news of Aizen's action as a lightly wounded Shunsui suggests that they and an unscathed Yamamoto not continue their fight any further. Elsewhere, Rangiku leaps across the rooftops and refuses to believe that Hitsugaya lost, leaving 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira to lean against a cratered wall and express shock at Gin going back on his word of not hurting Hinamori. While Iba and 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame are stunned by the news of the Central 46 being murdered, Hisagi and Komamura are mortified by Tōsen betraying them. In the Shinigami Research and Development Institute, Nemu asks her captain, Mayuri Kurotsuchi, if he heard, leading Mayuri to confirm that he did, but when Nemu inquires what they will do, Mayuri bluntly states that the situation does not interest him.
Meanwhile, as he stands with his friends and Makizō Aramaki with the aid of Ganju Shiba, Ichigo wonders what this message about the Central 46 and hypnosis was about while Orihime Inoue notes that she did not hear anything. With Sado observing that Orihime not coming into direct contact with anyone from the Fourth Division means she probably could not attune to Isane's Reiatsu, Ichigo claims that captains killing captains is the Gotei 13 's problem and remains uncertain of why he and his friends were informed, prompting Uryū to note that they must have thought it was important. Uryū details how the Central 46 is the supreme judicial body of the Seireitei and that Aizen wanted the other Shinigami to think they were obeying its orders when they were really obeying him. When Uryū asks them what Aizen wants, an unnerved Ganju assumes that it must be an execution, which Uryū confirms as he reminds the group that the date of Rukia's execution was moved forward when they got here and that they should have suspected something then before concluding that Aizen wants Rukia dead, prompting a shocked Ichigo to look up at Sōkyoku Hill nearby and realize Rukia is there.
Back on Sōkyoku Hill, Renji refuses to give Rukia over to Aizen, who acknowledges this. When Gin attempts to draw his Zanpakutō, Aizen tells him to wait and calls Renji stubborn for not giving him Rukia, only to promise that he will let Renji have his way by keeping Rukia in his arms while destroying the rest of him as he draws his Zanpakutō, intimidating Renji.
173. end of hypnosis5 [Standing to Defend You] [ ]
6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai does his best to protect Rukia Kuchiki from 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen, who explains his role in Renji's tenure in the Gotei 13.
As blood spatters on the ground, Rukia Kuchiki expresses concern for 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai, who stands with his right sleeve ripped open and his sword arm wounded as he holds Rukia in his left and points his Zanpakutō at 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen while the latter praises the improvement in Renji's defensive skills. Despite being pleased with Renji's growth, Aizen states that Renji has chosen a bad time to be persistent because it is difficult for him to step on ants without crushing them and he would hate to see a former subordinate die. With Rukia still expressing concern for him, Renji tells her to shut up and demands to know why Aizen killed his lieutenant, Momo Hinamori, if he feels this way, prompting Aizen to deduce that the disruption of Reiatsu earlier must have been 4th Division Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu performing Bakudō #77. Tenteikūra before explaining that Hinamori's death was unavoidable due to her inability to live without him and her having fulfilled her purpose, which means that he was being compassionate.
Aizen elaborates that he never intended to kill Hinamori himself and tried to get 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira and 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya to do the job for him, only for those attempts to not work out, leaving him to grudgingly do it himself. Hearing this, Renji notes that Aizen had both Izuru and Hinamori in the palm of his hand, and with Aizen asserting that Renji was in the palm of his hand as well, Renji declares that Aizen is not the captain he knew and is definitely not getting Rukia even if Renji does not know what his plan is. However, Aizen counters that he was never the captain Renji knew because that was an illusion, such that the Aizen which Renji knew never existed. Angered by this, Renji leaps high into the air and releases his Shikai, Zabimaru. As the segments of Zabimaru hurtle toward him, Aizen inquires if Shikai is the best that Renji can do with his injured arm and holds his Zanpakutō above his head, causing Zabimaru to deflect off of it into the ground nearby, startling Renji. With Aizen stating that he must know Shikai will not buy him any time at all, Renji retracts Zabimaru and proclaims that he does not know this before swinging Zabimaru at Aizen once more, only for Aizen to casually grab the end segment, stopping Zabimaru in its tracks and causing the remaining segments to bunch up in midair.
As Renji expresses shock at Aizen accomplishing this with his bare hand, Aizen observes that Renji was the most trouble of the three and cuts apart Zabimaru with a single slash of his Zanpakutō. After slashing Renji across the back, which causes him to fall to his knees, Aizen recalls how he felt sure that he could use Renji, Hinamori, and Izuru the first time they met, which is why he had the three of them assigned to the Fifth Division when they joined the Gotei 13 and made the two useful ones subordinates of himself and 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru before sending Renji to another division since he was the problem child. Concluding that his instinct was correct, Aizen instructs Renji one last time to let go of Rukia and run. However, while Rukia attempts to plead with Aizen, Renji tells her to shut up once again and refuses to let go of her. Recalling his separation from Rukia at the Shin'ō Academy, Renji declares that he is not leaving Rukia, prompting Aizen to state that this is unfortunate and attack him. Suddenly, Aizen finds his Zanpakutō intercepted by Ichigo Kurosaki, who kneels between him and Renji with his Bankai, Tensa Zangetsu, active and his sword blocking Aizen's as he questions if Rukia is really heavy enough to make Renji kneel and claims that he came to give the latter a hand.
174. end of hypnosis6 [The United Front] [ ]
Ichigo Kurosaki and 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai formulate a plan to defend Rukia Kuchiki from 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen.
Forcing back 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen 's Zanpakutō, Ichigo Kurosaki stands in front of 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai and Rukia Kuchiki with his Bankai, Tensa Zangetsu, active. When Renji apologizes for forcing him to come to their aid, Ichigo claims that Renji looked exhausted from just carrying Rukia around and mockingly inquires if running away was too much for him. Irritated by this, Renji counters that Ichigo looks tired as well and suggests that he curl up in a blanket somewhere, and as Ichigo and Renji continue to bicker in annoyance, Rukia pushes herself away from Renji's chest and gasps for air. With a startled Ichigo and Renji asking her if she is alright, Rukia angrily punches Renji in the face for smothering her against his chest and crushing the wind out of her. Watching Rukia continue to berate Renji, 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru apologizes to Aizen for letting Ichigo get by because he did not want to intrude, prompting Aizen to assure him that it is alright since Ichigo is just another ant to step on and makes no difference.
Alerted by this, Ichigo asks Renji if that is Aizen, which Renji confirms, and inquires if he can run. When Renji affirms that he can but will not do so, Ichigo begins to protest, but Renji explains that his Shikai, Zabimaru, still has some surprises left despite being broken and points out that they both know there is no point in running. Though he does not believe they can defeat Aizen, Gin, and 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen, Renji suggests that they might be able to stun the captains and walk out of here with some pride, leading Ichigo to declare that they are a team now. Placing his left hand on the hilt of Zabimaru, Renji notes that he can only use this move once and that there will be an opening if it works before warning Ichigo that he will only have an instant to make his attack because of how powerful Aizen is. After asking Zabimaru to endure the pain this will bring, Renji slams his broken Shikai into the ground and initiates Higa Zekkō, causing the broken segments of Zabimaru around Aizen to rise into the air and hurtle toward him while glowing with Reiatsu.
With Aizen engulfed in a cloud of dust by the impact of the segments, Ichigo seizes the opportunity and rushes forward as he swings his sword, only for a smiling Aizen to block it with his left index finger before slashing his Zanpakutō deeply through a shocked Ichigo's midsection. The lower half of Ichigo's body swings back as the deep cut begins gushing blood, and after observing that he must have miscalculated if Ichigo is not in two pieces, Aizen leaves Ichigo to fall to his knees and slashes Renji through the left side of his upper torso, causing him to collapse in disbelief as well, before approaching Rukia and grabbing her by the collar around her neck as he tells her to get up.
175. end of hypnosis7 [Truth Under My Strings] [ ]
5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen reveals the catalyst behind his plan and the depth of Kisuke Urahara 's machinations in Ichigo Kurosaki 's journey.
With Ichigo Kurosaki and 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai lying in pools of blood behind him, 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen approaches Rukia Kuchiki near the broken scaffold and tells her to get up as he grabs her by the collar around her neck. Upon seeing Rukia unable to stand up, Aizen realizes that she is weak from the impact of his Reiatsu and assures her that this is no problem because it is simply easier for him if she can walk on her own two feet. Suddenly, Aizen notices Ichigo struggling to get up and expresses sympathy for him still being conscious. As a sweating Ichigo glares at him, Aizen notes that his will to live exceeds his skills and cautions Ichigo against pushing himself too hard because his spine is the only thing holding the two halves of him together, meaning that it is structurally impossible for him to make it to his feet no matter how much willpower he has. After instructing Ichigo to look on the bright side of him getting further than expected, Aizen tells him to rest for a while due to his part in all this being over.
When Ichigo picks up on his phrasing, Aizen explains that he knew the Ryoka would be coming and would arrive in West Rukongai, which is why he posted surveillance there, lowered the Sekkiseki wall around the Seireitei after their arrival, and had 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru drive Ichigo away personally, leaving Kūkaku Shiba 's Kakaku Taihō as the only way to get in with all the captains roaming around behind the wall. Calling the Ryoka's arrival spectacular, Aizen details how his group outwitted and outfought even the captains, such that every Shinigami in the Seireitei was looking for them, and concludes that the excitement and engaging nature of it all meant even the murder of a captain received very little attention and made it easy for Aizen to carry out his plan.
A stunned Ichigo questions how he knew they would arrive in West Rukongai, and when Aizen asserts that it was obvious because that is Kisuke Urahara 's base of operations and the only place the Ryoka could enter using a Senkaimon created by Urahara, Ichigo expresses shock, leading Aizen to point out that this should not surprise him since he works for Urahara before reminding Ichigo that he came to rescue Rukia on Urahara's orders. With Ichigo speechless at this, Aizen deduces that he does not know and decides to tell Ichigo now that it is all over as he approaches Ichigo with Rukia in tow. Aizen details how Shinigami have four basic combat methods known as Zan ken so ki, each of which require a certain level of power, but attempting to master those methods will invariably result in one eventually hitting a wall determined by their potential, where improvement stops. Asserting that all Shinigami have these limits, Aizen raises the question of the possibility of breaking through these limits and concludes that this can be done by only one means known as Hollowfication, causing Ichigo to recall briefly being taken over by his inner Hollow. Continuing that either Hollowfying a Shinigami or giving Shinigami powers to a Hollow allows them to reach new heights by removing the barrier between these opposing lifeforms, a theory which has been around for a while, Aizen recounts how he focused his efforts on Hollows and could eventually send out Hollows with abilities akin to those of Shinigami, like Hollows that could hide their Reiatsu and Hollows that could destroy Zanpakutō and fuse with Shinigami, which leads Rukia to remember the fate of Kaien Shiba.
Despite this, Aizen admits that none of them could truly be considered a new kind of being and others who delved into this field were hindered by ignorance and ethics, resulting in no one being successful until Urahara, who worked outside of Soul Society 's scientific community to create a substance that could remove the barriers between Shinigami and Hollows in an instant. Referring to this substance as the Hōgyoku, Aizen recalls how Urahara considered it dangerous and tried to destroy it, but found that he could not and was eventually forced to reluctantly place a protective shell around the Hōgyoku that would allow it to be implanted deep within a Soul. Informing Rukia that she was the hiding place which Urahara chose, Aizen explains that she had already gone missing in the Human World by the time he learned this secret, though he instinctively knew that Urahara was behind it, and proceeds to detail how all Gigai are constructed of highly concentrated Reishi in order to compensate for the powers that a Shinigami loses when in that form, which also allows all the actions of a Gigai to be tracked from Soul Society and making it inconceivable for one to go missing. However, Aizen reveals that Urahara created a Gigai that contained no Reishi, leading to his banishment from Soul Society, and clarifies that the other reason for his banishment was the consequence of a Shinigami inhabiting that Gigai: their spiritual powers would continue to diminish while they were within the Gigai to the point of no longer being recoverable, and communications with the Gigai gradually slow down, eventually leading to the Soul losing all of its spiritual powers and becoming a normal Human.
With Aizen concluding that Urahara was turning her into a Human in order to conceal the Hōgyoku rather than help her, Rukia recalls Urahara approaching her after she transferred all her Shinigami powers to Ichigo and offering to let her borrow a Gigai. However, as Aizen begins recounting the actions he took after Rukia was discovered a few months later, 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura lands behind him and furiously attacks Aizen with his Shikai, Tenken.
176. end of hypnosis8 [the Transfixion] [ ]
After defeating 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura, 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen recounts the rest of his machinations and succeeds in extracting the Hōgyoku.
In the past, a young Kaname Tōsen bumps into a young Sajin Komamura and apologizes for not knowing he was there, only to be shocked when Komamura reveals that he is sitting behind Tōsen, who had been addressing empty air. Introducing himself, Tōsen praises Komamura's skill at hiding his presence due to Tōsen having never failed to sense another's presence before, prompting Komamura, who is wearing a cloth rather than a mask, to apologize and state that it is a bad habit of his. At a later point in time, after joining the Gotei 13, Tōsen and Komamura encounter one another once again, where Tōsen expresses joy at meeting his friend again and invites Komamura to join the Fifth Division so he can meet their lieutenant, whom he believes Komamura will like. Some time later, Komamura and Tōsen stand before Kakyō's grave as Komamura tells Tōsen how he became a Shinigami in order to repay a debt of gratitude to the one who saved his life. Commenting on this being very much like Komamura to do, Tōsen begins to tell Komamura why he became a Shinigami upon being asked. At a different point in time, Komamura meets 5th Division Lieutenant Sousuke Aizen, who mentions that Tōsen told him about Komamura and politely greets him.
In the present, on Sōkyoku Hill, Aizen casually holds back Komamura's Zanpakutō with his left hand and notes that it has been a long time since he saw Komamura's face before inquiring what brought about the change. Angered by Aizen grinning at him like this, Komamura punches at him with his Shikai, Tenken, causing a giant fist to smash into the ground where they are standing, and as Aizen leaps unharmed out of the dust cloud, Komamura declares that he will pay for betraying and deceiving them all as he demands Aizen and Tōsen explain themselves if they can. With Tōsen remaining silent, Komamura assumes that he cannot do so and apologizes as he prepares to activate his Bankai, only for Aizen to suddenly appear in front of Komamura, who sees the Aizen next to Tōsen disappearing as the real Aizen casts Hadō #90. Kurohitsugi, creating a large black box around Komamura that is pierced by several spears. As he watches this, a stunned Ichigo Kurosaki wonders how two captain-class individuals could be so far apart in power while a grievously wounded Komamura falls behind Aizen.
While Aizen asserts that his Kanzen Saimin is flawless and cannot be evaded even if one knows it is coming, 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru expresses amazement at him using a Hadō in the 90s range without an incantation and questions when Aizen achieved this, only for Aizen to downplay this feat since he was unable to summon even a third of the destructive potential of Kurohitsugi, a consequence of such high-level spells being unwieldy. Having been holding Rukia Kuchiki by the collar around her neck for the duration of this, Gin hands her back to Aizen, who resumes recounting his machinations by picking up with his elimination of the Central 46 after Rukia was discovered in the Human World. Seeing Rukia's shock at this, Aizen pulls her along and theorizes that 4th Division Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu told her he killed the Central 46 after faking his own death, only to clarify that he killed them shortly after she was discovered and used Kanzen Saimin on the council chamber to make it appear as though the Central 46 were alive and in session so anyone who entered the chamber would not notice anything unusual, though no captain would go in there without the Central 46's permission anyway.
Aizen proceeds to recall how he, Gin, and Tōsen hid themselves in the Central Underground Assembly Hall where they issued orders as though they were Central 46: sending 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki and Lieutenant Renji Abarai to ensure Rukia's capture, ordering Rukia's Gigai be immediately returned for disposal to separate her from the Humans, and deciding to execute her with the Sōkyoku in order to evaporate her Soul and extract the Hōgyoku within, stunning Ichigo and Rukia. After noting that they only left the Central Underground Assembly Hall open for a few hours before and after the two captains' meetings, Aizen concludes that he faked his death and stayed inside after this while knowing that the Ryoka might come to save Rukia. Proceeding to detail the only two ways to remove a foreign object from a Soul - evaporating the Soul by a powerful thermal disruption like the Sōkyoku or tampering with the Soul's composition - Aizen notes that he needed a backup plan in case the execution failed and consulted the Daireishokairō, which contains all the knowledge and history of Soul Society, because he could study all of Urahara's research there and suspected that the secret to removing foreign objects implanted in Souls would be there since Urahara had developed the technology for implanting them to begin with.
After Aizen clicks a small capsule in his hand, six spear-like pillars rise out of the ground around him and Rukia while his right hand and arm are discolored and covered in lines, with his fingers becoming blade-like. Despite Ichigo's desperate protests, Aizen shoves his hand into Rukia's chest and retrieves the Hōgyoku from within. Letting Rukia fall, Aizen examines the Hōgyoku and comments on its small size as his hand and arm return to normal in a shedding process. As Ichigo sees that the hole in Rukia's chest is shrinking, Aizen observes that the Soul itself remains undamaged by this process and praises the technology involved, only to conclude that Rukia is no longer needed and hold her aloft by her collar as he orders Gin to kill her. Gin complies and releases his Shikai, Shinsō, causing the blade to extend toward Rukia's neck from behind, but those present are variously shocked and surprised when a still-bloodied Byakuya frees Rukia from Aizen's grasp and intercepts Shinsō with his body to protect her.
177. end of hypnosis9 [Completely Encompass] [ ]
5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen and his cohorts are restrained and surrounded by the remaining able-bodied and willing captains and lieutenants of the Gotei 13.
Having intercepted 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru 's Shikai, Shinsō, with his body to protect Rukia Kuchiki, 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki lets go of the blade, which retracts in a snake-like fashion, before collapsing as a stunned Rukia expresses concern for him. With Rukia asking Byakuya why he did this and repeatedly calling his name, a smiling Aizen approaches her and prepares to draw his Zanpakutō while Rukia protectively clutches an unresponsive Byakuya's head to her chest. Suddenly, Yoruichi Shihōin and 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng appear next to Aizen, with Yoruichi clutching his Zanpakutō and Suì-Fēng holding her Zanpakutō to his neck, and as Aizen comments on having not seen her face in a long time, Yoruichi promises alongside Suì-Fēng that he will lose his head if he even twitches a finger, to Aizen's bemusement.
However, they are interrupted when Kaiwan, Danzōmaru, and Higonyūdō crash down onto the buildings below Sōkyoku Hill, causing Yoruichi to express shock at Aizen managing to recruit them while Aizen questions what she will do since not even Yoruichi can restrain him while fighting them, only for Yoruichi to be alerted by a loud yelling as Jidanbō Ikkanzaka crashes into the ground in front of the three Gatekeepers with Kūkaku Shiba on his shoulder. With Yoruichi delighted by her arrival, Kūkaku claims that she came to watch the fun because she was bored and instructs Jidanbō to begin before firing Hadō #63. Raikōhō at Higonyūdō, who is knocked out. As he mentally observes that Kaiwan and Danzōmaru not reacting to this means something is not right, Jidanbō concludes that Aizen must have done something to them because they are friends and apologizes as he punches Danzōmaru in the face, knocking him out.
Watching this from above, Gin expresses sympathy for the pain this must have inflicted and wonders what he should do, only for 10th Division Captain Rangiku Matsumoto to appear behind him and grab his left hand by the wrist while holding her Zanpakutō to his neck and ordering him to not move. As Gin apologizes to Aizen for getting caught, Yoruichi tells him that it is over, and when Aizen expresses confusion, Yoruichi points out that he is surrounded while Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto, 1st Division Lieutenant Chōjirō Sasakibe, 2nd Division Lieutenant Marechiyo Ōmaeda, 7th Division Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba, 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku, Lieutenant Nanao Ise, 9th Division Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi, and 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake appear as well, with Hisagi holding his Zanpakutō to Tōsen's neck. Despite Jidanbō having defeated Kaiwan as well and Yoruichi asserting that it is over, Aizen merely smiles.
178. end of hypnosis10 [No One Stand On the Sky] [ ]
5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen, 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru, and 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen make their escape.
Seeing 5th Division Captain Sousuke Aizen smile despite him, 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru, and 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen being restrained and surrounded by several captains and lieutenants, Yoruichi Shihōin demands to know what he finds so funny, only to be shocked when Aizen merely notes that it is time, causing her to instruct 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng to leap back before accompanying her as a Negación beam envelops Aizen. As they look up, the other Shinigami are shocked to see several Menos Grande teeming behind a massive Kūmon in the sky above them. The Menos Grande begin pushing out of the Kūmon and separating, allowing a shocked 9th Division Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi to see that there is something with a massive eye lurking behind them while 2nd Division Lieutenant Marechiyo Ōmaeda wonders how many there are.
Suddenly, two more Negación beams pierce the sky next to the Kūmon and envelop Tōsen, whom Hisagi leaps back from, and Gin, who frees himself from Rangiku's grasp and admits that he would not have minded being her prisoner for a while longer before apologizing. The patch of ground Aizen is standing on begins rising into the air, to the astonishment of those watching, and as 7th Division Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba prepares to attack him, Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto stops him and explains that Negación is a light which Menos Grande used to rescue each other and which cannot be breached because its contents are in another world, meaning that Aizen was beyond their reach the moment it came down.
Despite his injuries, a bloodied 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura forces himself up and demands to know where Tōsen's sense of justice has gone if he became a Shinigami for his dead friend and to uphold justice, only for Tōsen to remind Komamura that he walks the path of least bloodshed where justice is always present and conclude that the path he now walks is justice. Meanwhile, 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake stands before Aizen and inquires why he allied himself with the Menos Grande. When Aizen asserts that he did so to seek greater heights, Ukitake questions if he has fallen, but Aizen counters this by claiming that no has ever stood atop the heavens before, not him, Ukitake, or the gods. Slicking back his hair and removing his glasses, which he crushes, Aizen concludes that the unbearable vacancy of heaven's throne ends now because he will stand at the top from now on. As he bids farewell to the Shinigami and Ichigo Kurosaki, Aizen admits that he was interesting for a Human boy before being drawn fully into the Kūmon, which closes behind him.
Sources and content license
Source and revision history · Exact listed stories combined in catalog order. Sources retain their stated license; formatting and headings adjusted. Adapted from Bleach Wiki contributors, A STAR AND A STRAY DOG. Chapter synopses combined; illustrations, author notes, publisher blurbs and reference markers omitted. Adapted from Bleach Wiki contributors, FLOWER ON THE PRECIPICE. Chapter synopses combined; illustrations, author notes, publisher blurbs and reference markers omitted. Adapted from Bleach Wiki contributors, THE UNDEAD. Chapter synopses combined; illustrations, author notes, publisher blurbs and reference markers omitted. Adapted from Bleach Wiki contributors, WHITE TOWER ROCKS. Chapter synopses combined; illustrations, author notes, publisher blurbs and reference markers omitted. Adapted from Bleach Wiki contributors, BEGINNING OF THE DEATH OF TOMORROW. Chapter synopses combined; illustrations, author notes, publisher blurbs and reference markers omitted. Adapted from Bleach Wiki contributors, NIGHT OF WIJNRUIT. Chapter synopses combined; illustrations, author notes, publisher blurbs and reference markers omitted. Adapted from Bleach Wiki contributors, ROSA RUBICUNDIOR, LILIO CANDIDIOR. Chapter synopses combined; illustrations, author notes, publisher blurbs and reference markers omitted. Adapted from Bleach Wiki contributors, THE DEATHBERRY RETURNS. Chapter synopses combined; illustrations, author notes, publisher blurbs and reference markers omitted. Adapted from Bleach Wiki contributors, THE BLACK MOON RISING. Chapter synopses combined; illustrations, author notes, publisher blurbs and reference markers omitted. Adapted from Bleach Wiki contributors, End of hypnosis. Chapter synopses combined; illustrations, author notes, publisher blurbs and reference markers omitted. · Content license