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Bleach #16
Bleach, tomo 16: Night of Wijnruit
藍染が遺した手紙から、ルキア処刑の裏に仕組まれた恐るべき陰謀を知った雛森は、その遺志を継ぎ、首謀者・日番谷冬獅郎に刃を向ける！ 一方、未だ卍解に至らない一護に、ルキアの刑執行繰り上げの報が…！！
192 pages, Paperback
First published March 4, 2005
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June 8, 2024
"What did... you say?"
"Oh, didn't you hear me? Then I'll say it again. Rukia Kuchiki, the day of your execution has been changed once again. The execution will be tomorrow."
The clock is ticking, Rukia's execution day comes faster and faster. Ichigo is training like crazy to gain the power needed to save her, but, despite making progress, he still didn't achieve Bankai. Since most of his friends are locked in a cell, it seems like there is no one available to come and rescue Rukia.
And the Soul Society is having its own problem. Captain Aizen has been found dead and everyone are trying to find the culprit. Hitsugaya suspects Gin and involves himself in a fight with him. But then Hinamori comes in - Hitsugaya thoughts that she's here to get revenge on Gin, but, to his surprise, she attacks him instead.
If he will not back down, I am prepared to cross swords with him. But if I die, Hinamori, please carry on for me and kill him. That is my last wish. I ask this of you not as a captain of 5th company, but as a man.
Okay, guys. Okay. I understand Hinamori's emotions, she was very close with Aizen and she wants revenge. She got his letter with his last wish and wants to carry on his will. I get it. What I don't understand is the fact that she decided to attack Hitsugaya. I know that Aizen named him as the culprit, but how the heck did Hinamori agreed with it? It's like everything she knew about Hitsugaya, their shared moments from childhood, suddenly didn't matter anymore. It's not a stranger, it's her best friend! How did she thought that he could plan to destroy the Soul Society? That he could kill another captain? Why would he want to do so?
And the most important thing of all: WHERE WAS THE EVIDENCE?? All Aizen did was write that he suspects Hitsugaya, there was absolutely no evidence added to it! I understand Hinamori's emotions, but girl, do not shut off your brain!
"Knowing you, you probably won't tell me what's bothering you. But don't forget - as long as you're in this company, I'm your friend for life."
We finally get to see Rukia's past, which means - Kaien Shiba had shown up! It's not only important for Rukia's character development, but also because of how big of an impact Kaien had on Rukia, and, let's be real, how much alike Kaien and Ichigo are. I LOVE Kaien. I can easily name him one of the best Bleach characters, despite how little time we got to spend with him. With his easygoing and caring personality, you cannot help, but like him instantly. He had shown up the moment Rukia needed a friend the most and it truly seems like fate, especially if you consider the fact that Kaien is from the Shiba clan. Their dynamic is very fun and adorable and it's a pleasure to see them together in both the anime and the manga. The way Kaien's life ended will always be upsetting for me. He not only died in a tragic way, he couldn't find any peace in the afterlife (if you know, you know). I wish we could spend more time with him. I wish that he survived. I wonder what kind of dynamic he would have with other characters, especially with Ichigo :(
P.S. IT RAINED AGAIN. I NEVER NOTICED IT, OMG!
The clock is ticking. Rukia's execution's tomorrow. Will Ichigo achieve Bankai? Will Zaraki win against the captains? What about the end scene with Renji running to save Rukia - will he succeed? What about Hitsugaya and his plan to stop the execution? Will he really become a rebel, like Zaraki, and decide to fight on the side of the Ryoka? We will see in the next volume! ;)
Some other things I need to talk about:
~ the cover is GORGEOUS 😍
~ HYÔRINMARU!! 🐲
~ I love Byakuya, but him being completely heartless (with Rukia) and cruel (with Ukitake) was uncalled for. Where is an apology, huh? I cannot wait for Ichigo to teach him a lesson! 😤
~ Hollow Kaien is terrifying 😨
~ Rukia's thoughts of her being pathetic and not worth fighting over killed me. No one, absolutely no one should feel this way.
~ did I said already that I love Kyoraku's and Nanao's dynamic? Because I love Kyoraku's and Nanao's dynamic.
~ "Was that bluster or were you serious? Either way, you're not only lost your honor, but your sanity as well, Zaraki."
"Heh... Sanity? Sorry, I don't recall ever having anything like that." Zaraki's truly a crazy beast and we love to see it!!
"Oh, didn't you hear me? Then I'll say it again. Rukia Kuchiki, the day of your execution has been changed once again. The execution will be tomorrow."
The clock is ticking, Rukia's execution day comes faster and faster. Ichigo is training like crazy to gain the power needed to save her, but, despite making progress, he still didn't achieve Bankai. Since most of his friends are locked in a cell, it seems like there is no one available to come and rescue Rukia.
And the Soul Society is having its own problem. Captain Aizen has been found dead and everyone are trying to find the culprit. Hitsugaya suspects Gin and involves himself in a fight with him. But then Hinamori comes in - Hitsugaya thoughts that she's here to get revenge on Gin, but, to his surprise, she attacks him instead.
If he will not back down, I am prepared to cross swords with him. But if I die, Hinamori, please carry on for me and kill him. That is my last wish. I ask this of you not as a captain of 5th company, but as a man.
Okay, guys. Okay. I understand Hinamori's emotions, she was very close with Aizen and she wants revenge. She got his letter with his last wish and wants to carry on his will. I get it. What I don't understand is the fact that she decided to attack Hitsugaya. I know that Aizen named him as the culprit, but how the heck did Hinamori agreed with it? It's like everything she knew about Hitsugaya, their shared moments from childhood, suddenly didn't matter anymore. It's not a stranger, it's her best friend! How did she thought that he could plan to destroy the Soul Society? That he could kill another captain? Why would he want to do so?
And the most important thing of all: WHERE WAS THE EVIDENCE?? All Aizen did was write that he suspects Hitsugaya, there was absolutely no evidence added to it! I understand Hinamori's emotions, but girl, do not shut off your brain!
"Knowing you, you probably won't tell me what's bothering you. But don't forget - as long as you're in this company, I'm your friend for life."
We finally get to see Rukia's past, which means - Kaien Shiba had shown up! It's not only important for Rukia's character development, but also because of how big of an impact Kaien had on Rukia, and, let's be real, how much alike Kaien and Ichigo are. I LOVE Kaien. I can easily name him one of the best Bleach characters, despite how little time we got to spend with him. With his easygoing and caring personality, you cannot help, but like him instantly. He had shown up the moment Rukia needed a friend the most and it truly seems like fate, especially if you consider the fact that Kaien is from the Shiba clan. Their dynamic is very fun and adorable and it's a pleasure to see them together in both the anime and the manga. The way Kaien's life ended will always be upsetting for me. He not only died in a tragic way, he couldn't find any peace in the afterlife (if you know, you know). I wish we could spend more time with him. I wish that he survived. I wonder what kind of dynamic he would have with other characters, especially with Ichigo :(
P.S. IT RAINED AGAIN. I NEVER NOTICED IT, OMG!
The clock is ticking. Rukia's execution's tomorrow. Will Ichigo achieve Bankai? Will Zaraki win against the captains? What about the end scene with Renji running to save Rukia - will he succeed? What about Hitsugaya and his plan to stop the execution? Will he really become a rebel, like Zaraki, and decide to fight on the side of the Ryoka? We will see in the next volume! ;)
Some other things I need to talk about:
~ the cover is GORGEOUS 😍
~ HYÔRINMARU!! 🐲
~ I love Byakuya, but him being completely heartless (with Rukia) and cruel (with Ukitake) was uncalled for. Where is an apology, huh? I cannot wait for Ichigo to teach him a lesson! 😤
~ Hollow Kaien is terrifying 😨
~ Rukia's thoughts of her being pathetic and not worth fighting over killed me. No one, absolutely no one should feel this way.
~ did I said already that I love Kyoraku's and Nanao's dynamic? Because I love Kyoraku's and Nanao's dynamic.
~ "Was that bluster or were you serious? Either way, you're not only lost your honor, but your sanity as well, Zaraki."
"Heh... Sanity? Sorry, I don't recall ever having anything like that." Zaraki's truly a crazy beast and we love to see it!!
June 9, 2023
Rukia and Shiba’s backstory together? Oh my god I’m in pain. I didn’t even know Shiba before this volume, so I’m impressed at how much Kubo made me care for him in such little time.
September 16, 2020
Bleach continues with fast paced fights and stakes feeling super high. The training with ichigo to master bankei before Rukia execution is well done. The fight between Gin and Icy dragon is great. All of this volume worked.
June 8, 2023
Let’s go Ichigo, time is running out! Also we got Captains fighting Captains now. Kenpachi is about to take them down.
May 12, 2010
This book is about soul reapers and the captain Tootsee Roll is mad at a traitor captain Gin Because he hurt his friend HinDoMaru. They fight for a really long unnecessary time and finally, in the end A girl comes to save the day. Gin walks away because of the girls big breasts. Also there are some flashbacks of Rookya memories. Rookya is a criminal who is very bad and naughty and is going to be excuted. Rookya shared a closet with ItsyGo when she was in the human realm. Also RenJay likes Rookya so shes a player. Most of Rookya memories are about murdering her jr. captain because jr. got controlled. Then Rookya selfishly killed jr. Then KenPocki rescued YourYu , Chad, and a guy with a mustache that i forgot his name. RenJay and ItsyGo are training to resuce Rookya even though her death day is today. ItsyoGo is doing training that takes 3 days. Is he stupid or what? Then KenPocki fights 2 captains at once. They are a black blind guy and a doggy. WHO WILL WIN? Do you really think that doggy and the guy will win..... "Continued In Bleach 17"
February 1, 2020
A civil war begins as Rukia's sentence draws closer and closer. With the mysterious death of a captain unveiling a potential conspiracy on one side and the tragic origin story behind Kaien Shiba that is finally unveiled on the other side, this remained relatively calm but teases destructive confrontations for the following arc.
Yours truly,
Lashaan | Blogger and Book Reviewer
Official blog: https://bookidote.com/
Yours truly,
Lashaan | Blogger and Book Reviewer
Official blog: https://bookidote.com/
October 16, 2022
While Ichigo trains, some of the other captains decide that Rukia is not worth executing. The ranks are beginning to crumble and it’s extremely entertaining to see these high powered Soul Reapers engage each other in battle!
August 28, 2023
KENPACHI IDOLO DELLA MIA VITA.
(Tanto love per Hitsugaya in copertina 🫶🏻)
(Tanto love per Hitsugaya in copertina 🫶🏻)
March 13, 2025
Renjis bankai reveal was awesome I can't even lie to you. The rest was pretty good too, Kenny aura farming by fighting two captain's at once was cold as hell. Not been too much ichigo lately but my favourite moment in this arc is about to happen in the next few volumes so fingers crossed for the 5.
April 19, 2021
Manga Monday?? Pretty good the action has started. There is a schism and ichego is almost ready. Really enjoyed it
Summary: PLOT TWIST
Captain Aizen's letter said that there is a plan to steal the execution sword (which is why Rukia was getting the sentence and why its been moved up) to wipe out all of the soul society. In the letter it tells Hinamaori that it is was captain Toshiro who had the whole plan and that if Aizen dies she'll have to kill him. Toshiro easily knocks her aside and blames Gin for this deceit and they start to fight. Toshiro uses his swords true form, an ice dragon, gin tries to kill Hinamaori but its stopped by matsumoto. Rukia's execution is moved up a to tomorrow. Renji shows up to where Ichego is training and decides he is going to work on Bankai too.
Rukia's old captain confronts Byakuya about not caring about Rukia. Rukia has a flashback to what happened with Gangu's brother, Kaien. He was the assistant captain of the 13th company and always treated her like an equal. She looked up to his wife but one day his wife was murdered by a hollow. Kiaen goes to take on that hallow alone, it has speacial abilities and takes control of his body. Rukia had to kill him to stop the hallow.
It's execution day. Kenpachi with his squad and Orihime break the others out of prison. Ichego still hasn't mastered bankai. Renji says hes going to go and asks Yoruichi if she thinks he can learn it in time... She basically says yes. Kenpachi, his squad, and the original crew (execept for Ichego and Yoruichi) get stopped by Captain Tosen Captain Komaura and their assistant captains. Kenpachi challenges them all to a fight at the same time. His 2 assistant captains challenge the other assistant captains and they run off to fight, now its 2 on one. The 2 captains attack using special moves on Kenpachi... the rubble clears he laughs and says is that the best you got?
Summary: PLOT TWIST
Captain Aizen's letter said that there is a plan to steal the execution sword (which is why Rukia was getting the sentence and why its been moved up) to wipe out all of the soul society. In the letter it tells Hinamaori that it is was captain Toshiro who had the whole plan and that if Aizen dies she'll have to kill him. Toshiro easily knocks her aside and blames Gin for this deceit and they start to fight. Toshiro uses his swords true form, an ice dragon, gin tries to kill Hinamaori but its stopped by matsumoto. Rukia's execution is moved up a to tomorrow. Renji shows up to where Ichego is training and decides he is going to work on Bankai too.
Rukia's old captain confronts Byakuya about not caring about Rukia. Rukia has a flashback to what happened with Gangu's brother, Kaien. He was the assistant captain of the 13th company and always treated her like an equal. She looked up to his wife but one day his wife was murdered by a hollow. Kiaen goes to take on that hallow alone, it has speacial abilities and takes control of his body. Rukia had to kill him to stop the hallow.
It's execution day. Kenpachi with his squad and Orihime break the others out of prison. Ichego still hasn't mastered bankai. Renji says hes going to go and asks Yoruichi if she thinks he can learn it in time... She basically says yes. Kenpachi, his squad, and the original crew (execept for Ichego and Yoruichi) get stopped by Captain Tosen Captain Komaura and their assistant captains. Kenpachi challenges them all to a fight at the same time. His 2 assistant captains challenge the other assistant captains and they run off to fight, now its 2 on one. The 2 captains attack using special moves on Kenpachi... the rubble clears he laughs and says is that the best you got?
December 1, 2017
Best scene for me was the fight between my favourite character Ichimaru Gin and Toshiro!
June 28, 2019
Bleach, Vol. 16 continues where the previous tankōbon left off and contains the next nine chapters (131–139) of the on-going manga series.
Forced to knock Momo Hinamori out when she tries to kill him, Tōshirō Hitsugaya furiously attacks Gin Ichimaru. Eventually, Hitsugaya's lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto intervenes when Gin was about to attack the unconscious Momo, the captain withdrawing rather than go against her.
Meanwhile, everyone learns that Rukia Kuchiki's execution date has been moved to the following day with Renji Abarai decides to train with Ichigo Kurosaki to obtain his Bankai while Jūshirō Ukitake decides to save his subordinate. However, Rukia believes her fate is deserved while reminiscing of her time with Kaien Shiba, Squad Thirteen's lieutenant who she was forced to kill when his body is invaded by the parasitic Hollow Metastica.
On the day of the execution, now aiding the intruders, Squad Eleven faces Kaname Tōsen's Squad Nine subordinates and Squad Seven under Sajin Komamura.
This tankobon is written and illustrated by Tite Kubo. The incursion into the Seireitei to save Rukia Kuchiki continues. With her execution date moved up, Ichigo Kurosaki's infiltration team adds more allies as they continue to go deeper into the Seireitei to find her. The back story of Rukia and how she killed Kaien Shiba is finally revealed.
All in all, Bleach, Vol. 16 is a wonderful continuation to a series that seems intriguing and I cannot wait to read more.
Forced to knock Momo Hinamori out when she tries to kill him, Tōshirō Hitsugaya furiously attacks Gin Ichimaru. Eventually, Hitsugaya's lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto intervenes when Gin was about to attack the unconscious Momo, the captain withdrawing rather than go against her.
Meanwhile, everyone learns that Rukia Kuchiki's execution date has been moved to the following day with Renji Abarai decides to train with Ichigo Kurosaki to obtain his Bankai while Jūshirō Ukitake decides to save his subordinate. However, Rukia believes her fate is deserved while reminiscing of her time with Kaien Shiba, Squad Thirteen's lieutenant who she was forced to kill when his body is invaded by the parasitic Hollow Metastica.
On the day of the execution, now aiding the intruders, Squad Eleven faces Kaname Tōsen's Squad Nine subordinates and Squad Seven under Sajin Komamura.
This tankobon is written and illustrated by Tite Kubo. The incursion into the Seireitei to save Rukia Kuchiki continues. With her execution date moved up, Ichigo Kurosaki's infiltration team adds more allies as they continue to go deeper into the Seireitei to find her. The back story of Rukia and how she killed Kaien Shiba is finally revealed.
All in all, Bleach, Vol. 16 is a wonderful continuation to a series that seems intriguing and I cannot wait to read more.
January 13, 2020
Eternally salty over the fact that this series ended without any definitive move in the relationship between Hitsugaya and Hinamori. My twelve year-old little shipper heart is still waiting because who can say no to that angst?! That yearning? I mean, really.
January 28, 2019
AMAZING
January 24, 2024
I need to go to sleep but how can I when it’s getting really good!!
April 13, 2024
This really felt like filler to me. The backstory was nice but come on ichigo.
March 18, 2025
Rukia + Shiba = pain 😭
April 1, 2025
¿La poca unidad que tienen los escuadrones? No han dudado ni 5 minutos a la hora de empezar una guerra civil. Y al viejo Yamamoto se la suda 😂😂😂😂😂😂 imagino que percibirá que se andan madreando sus subordinados, pero se la suda!!!!!
June 21, 2025
ken goat
March 16, 2019
So epic! I’m looking forward to seeing the fight between Renji and Byakuya! ✊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2020
definitely some interesting twists in this volume, can't wait to read the next!
December 26, 2025
It's instinct that makes us strive to gain power.
This volume had so many good stories! The build up is also insane and I’m so excited to see what happens next!
This volume had so many good stories! The build up is also insane and I’m so excited to see what happens next!
December 4, 2020
Its a good volume, focusing on Ichigos training with Zangetsu as they advance to the next level, here the focus is less on Ichigo and more on others, we have an interesting fight between Hitsugaya and Hinamori after she gets that letter from Aizen and its heartbreaking and a good knock off between the former and Ichimaru Gin as he suspects something fishy is there We check on with Ichigo and Renji comes there to train too to kinda motivate Ichigo or so it seems. But when the execution moves upward they have to do it fast, meanwhile Kenpachi fights the other captains specifically Tousen and Komamura aka animal man and its an interesting face off. Good volume, with stakes getting higher and next volume will be even more big!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2022
It hurts to see Hinamori fight Hitsugaya, especially with the hindsight of the rest of the series. Hinamori is one of the most tragic characters in the whole series. Meanwhile Zaraki gets to flex his ego a bit, which is always fun. And we get to see a little bit more of Ichigo's Bankai training. OH. I almost forgot about the Kaien Shiba flashback. That's what makes this volume as good as it is. This really is just a banger volume all around.
March 12, 2015
Gin a jeho velký meč... Sice by mohli vyhodit Kaiena, ale dobře... že je to pan Kubo, tak to přežiju. A konečně se objevil můj drahý Komamura ♥
December 24, 2017
Co na to říct? Je to Bleach. A dokonce ve velmi dobré podobě. Je tu zrada, akce, vtip i překvapivé zvraty. A já se už sakra nemůžu dočkat sedmnáctého dílu!
May 30, 2020
Given that Manga, and especially Shonen is split up into bigger arcs as composed to volumes I will be analyzing and reviewing this by Arc. I also reread this manga over the span of 2 months, some days reading as much as 100 chapters a day. It would be quite tedious for me to review each 7-8 chapter volume. So this will be copy and pasted throughout all of the 72 manga volumes. That being said, if you're looking at this without having viewed the series...spoiler warning. I don't recap anything, but I also mention things that happen. If you want me to answer the question "Should I pick this up?" Yes. Even if you stop at the end of the Soul Society Arc. It's worth it.
Karakura Town Arc - Chapters 1-56 - Rating: 7/10
(The official page lumps this in with the Soul Society Arc however I feel as if they are two very separate arcs with two very separate themes)
- A fun introduction.
-An interesting premise on the idea of ghosts and demons (Hollows)
-Does a good job of introducing the characters and I especially enjoyed the love for characters like Chad, Orihime and Uryu as these characters would later lose more and more spotlight as the series went on.
-It is a bit of a monster of the week. When it works, like with Chad's introduction story. It works. But Characters like Don Kanonji felt superficial and very gimmicky. Which, fair. I didn't enjoy them as much.
Soul Society Arc - Chapters 57-182 - Rating: 10/10
-The height of Bleach
-Establishes an afterlife seemingly perfectly. Later on revealed to be full of plot holes and never fleshed out but hey! That's not an issue in THIS arc. The fights are top tier, the themes of Ichigo owing a life debt to Rukia and his passion and determination to rise above literally God's army is inspiring and to this day is why I love Ichigo so much. He doesn't have some grandiose plan. He doesn't have a major goal to accomplish. He is a protector by heart, losing his mother has made him sour to failing to protect those he cares about and he'll do anything in his power never to feel that helpless again. Very powerful stuff.
-The twist near the end of this arc is revolutionary and would make waves for the next 200 chapters onward. A perfect ending and set up for the forthcoming arc.
-The only issues I have for this arc would be Ichigo's lightning speed progression. The guy goes from being able to barely defeat a third seat to besting multiple captains in roughly 100 or less chapters. I get that that is the point and him defeating captains was more of a struck of luck, but progression and pacing wise it feels very unearned and a factor of "for the plot he needed to be this strong" It only seems as fast as it is because Ichigo's progression slows drastically down for the rest of the story moving foreword so it's only now that I make that criticism.
-Also, and this will be an issue in most Shonen. There are 13 Captains with 13 Vice Captains and seats that branch all the way to 10 I believe? Regardless, there's a fudge ton of characters that are introduced here and it can get a little jarring at times. Luckily, Kubo does a great job at making their designs and characters unique despite such a large cast.
Hueco Mundo Arc - Chapters 183-423 - Rating 7/10
-This is another arc where personally I would split it up into two separate arcs. But for the sake of this review I will simply refer to the first half of the arc and the later half of the arc. First Half 9/10. Second Half. 5/10.
-The first half of this arc is a great continuation of the last. Ichigo now struggles with his inner demons and it affects his ability to protect the ones he loves. We are also introduced to a deadly unknown new villains. The Arrancars/Espada to this day remain one of my favorite villain factions in all of manga enemies.
-Just so you're aware I would say the first half of this arc ends right around the point of Ichigo vs Grimmjow. Grimmjow is one of the first Arrancar that Ichigo faces. And he's also one of two Espada that he faces three times. The conclusion of that fight shows Ichigo conquering his inner demons. Where Grimmjow is very much fighting to establish himself. Grimmjow has to fight Ichigo to prove to his fallen comrades that he is as good as he says he is. He doesn't care about Aizen, he doesn't care about the rest of the Espada. It is very personal for him. For Ichigo, Orohime is within his grasp of saving and he views this as his "final" battle. It's my favorite fight in all of Bleach.
-However, this is where things start to take a bit of dip in quality in my opinion. We had a goal and we were striving towards that goal. Each character of the original cast coming to repay the debt they made to their friend who had risked her life to save them in the Soul society arc. But somewhere along the way it seems we just had a fighter fest. Captains would face enemies with no themes or character revelations. The Espadas got a little light but nothing that made their fights compelling. You almost just feel bad for the Espada as they were monsters turned into a military force by an unstoppable tyrant. But even that wasn't enough to make half of the fights interesting. Now, that's with knowing the outcome. These fights played little importance in the larger scheme of things. Where at least in the Hueco Mundo fights each match up had the protagonists striving for a goal. Rukia to defeat Aaroneiro to free her former superiors soul. Byakuya to defend Rukia. Renji and Uryu teamwork. Nel to protect Ichigo and get revenge on Nnoitra. Whereas Stark fought Kyoraku.....cause.....and Hitsugaya fought Halibel because Water vs Ice would be cool.
-This leaves me to the end. I won't say it wasn't satisfying that Ichigo was able to defeat Aizen. And yes, I do feel like his new power was earned. 3 months of training. But this was clearly a last minute decision to save Aizen for a later date and the show must go on. I do feel like it wasn't as satisfying as 200+ chapter buildup needed to be.
The Fullbring Arc - Chapters 424-479 - Rating: 8/10
-A very underrated arc. And yes, I acknowledge that rating wise I think the Fullbring arc is superior to the Hueco Mundo arc. That is mostly true. Though I like the first half of the Hueco Mundo Arc more than the Fullbring arc. The end of the HM arc really brought it down for me. The Fullbring Arc is much more concise and is actually the shortest arc in the series and works as a glorified Ichigo getting his powers back arc. But that doesn't mean its bad.
-When I read it originally back when it was coming out in 2010. (Cause I'm Old) It wasn't phenomenal. In fact, I hated it. But wouldn't you? It took just short of a year to get to the point that we were at. But upon rereading it, it gave much deserved love to the characters who hadn't been shown love in quite some time. The original cast. It was a very character focused arc. Ichigo never seemed more human. And despite me hating it before for taking so long, reading weekly can sometimes hurt these mystery based arcs. The twist is heavily foreshadowed and I really appreciated it.
-That being said, the end was super rushed. This was a big bummer for me. The villains this time around were humans. And the ones who had the most exposure and relations with these characters were the original cast who again....were humans. So to have the soul reapers, who have no connection to the fullbringers show up and basically no diff most of the fullbringers felt very forced and fanservicey to me. This very well could have not been Kubo's call. As the community was very vocal about their dislike for this arc as it was going on. But I appreciate it now much more as I appreciate character and story over big sword fights. Lol.
The Thousand Year Blood War Arc - Chapters 424-689 - Rating: 5/10
-And we're finally here. The final and largest arc within the Bleach story. And man...does it not stick the landing.
-That being said, this arc has phenomenal moments. Kenpachi's Shikai and Bankai. Ichigo's double swords. Renji's true Bankai. Rukia's Bankai. And many more. However, they are put together against the most break neck speed arc that I have ever read. Kubo was very ambitious when he introduced 26 new villains. However, most of them got barely any screen time and a lot of them even got off screened by higher level captains. This was unlike the Espada who each got a full double page spread for their Resurrections.
-Yhwach himself was a phenomenal villain but was dealt with swiftly and imo dirty. They did him dirty.
-There was just something off. The mood changed and it was very apparent. The villains had random powers instead of the powers reflecting their personalities or needs. The finale felt so underwhelming.
-Ichigo gets to be the strongest he's ever been....but he doesn't defeat a single person besides the main villain despite being in several fights.
-It isn't a good arc. In fact, I would say it's the worst. Hopefully the anime does a better job with this already mammoth of a story. 260 chapters is no joke.
This gives the story of Bleach an Overall rating of 7.4/10. Which to me is above average. It has it's ups and downs. It's not perfect. But when it's high, it's peak shonen. But when it's low, it's very forgettable.
Karakura Town Arc - Chapters 1-56 - Rating: 7/10
(The official page lumps this in with the Soul Society Arc however I feel as if they are two very separate arcs with two very separate themes)
- A fun introduction.
-An interesting premise on the idea of ghosts and demons (Hollows)
-Does a good job of introducing the characters and I especially enjoyed the love for characters like Chad, Orihime and Uryu as these characters would later lose more and more spotlight as the series went on.
-It is a bit of a monster of the week. When it works, like with Chad's introduction story. It works. But Characters like Don Kanonji felt superficial and very gimmicky. Which, fair. I didn't enjoy them as much.
Soul Society Arc - Chapters 57-182 - Rating: 10/10
-The height of Bleach
-Establishes an afterlife seemingly perfectly. Later on revealed to be full of plot holes and never fleshed out but hey! That's not an issue in THIS arc. The fights are top tier, the themes of Ichigo owing a life debt to Rukia and his passion and determination to rise above literally God's army is inspiring and to this day is why I love Ichigo so much. He doesn't have some grandiose plan. He doesn't have a major goal to accomplish. He is a protector by heart, losing his mother has made him sour to failing to protect those he cares about and he'll do anything in his power never to feel that helpless again. Very powerful stuff.
-The twist near the end of this arc is revolutionary and would make waves for the next 200 chapters onward. A perfect ending and set up for the forthcoming arc.
-The only issues I have for this arc would be Ichigo's lightning speed progression. The guy goes from being able to barely defeat a third seat to besting multiple captains in roughly 100 or less chapters. I get that that is the point and him defeating captains was more of a struck of luck, but progression and pacing wise it feels very unearned and a factor of "for the plot he needed to be this strong" It only seems as fast as it is because Ichigo's progression slows drastically down for the rest of the story moving foreword so it's only now that I make that criticism.
-Also, and this will be an issue in most Shonen. There are 13 Captains with 13 Vice Captains and seats that branch all the way to 10 I believe? Regardless, there's a fudge ton of characters that are introduced here and it can get a little jarring at times. Luckily, Kubo does a great job at making their designs and characters unique despite such a large cast.
Hueco Mundo Arc - Chapters 183-423 - Rating 7/10
-This is another arc where personally I would split it up into two separate arcs. But for the sake of this review I will simply refer to the first half of the arc and the later half of the arc. First Half 9/10. Second Half. 5/10.
-The first half of this arc is a great continuation of the last. Ichigo now struggles with his inner demons and it affects his ability to protect the ones he loves. We are also introduced to a deadly unknown new villains. The Arrancars/Espada to this day remain one of my favorite villain factions in all of manga enemies.
-Just so you're aware I would say the first half of this arc ends right around the point of Ichigo vs Grimmjow. Grimmjow is one of the first Arrancar that Ichigo faces. And he's also one of two Espada that he faces three times. The conclusion of that fight shows Ichigo conquering his inner demons. Where Grimmjow is very much fighting to establish himself. Grimmjow has to fight Ichigo to prove to his fallen comrades that he is as good as he says he is. He doesn't care about Aizen, he doesn't care about the rest of the Espada. It is very personal for him. For Ichigo, Orohime is within his grasp of saving and he views this as his "final" battle. It's my favorite fight in all of Bleach.
-However, this is where things start to take a bit of dip in quality in my opinion. We had a goal and we were striving towards that goal. Each character of the original cast coming to repay the debt they made to their friend who had risked her life to save them in the Soul society arc. But somewhere along the way it seems we just had a fighter fest. Captains would face enemies with no themes or character revelations. The Espadas got a little light but nothing that made their fights compelling. You almost just feel bad for the Espada as they were monsters turned into a military force by an unstoppable tyrant. But even that wasn't enough to make half of the fights interesting. Now, that's with knowing the outcome. These fights played little importance in the larger scheme of things. Where at least in the Hueco Mundo fights each match up had the protagonists striving for a goal. Rukia to defeat Aaroneiro to free her former superiors soul. Byakuya to defend Rukia. Renji and Uryu teamwork. Nel to protect Ichigo and get revenge on Nnoitra. Whereas Stark fought Kyoraku.....cause.....and Hitsugaya fought Halibel because Water vs Ice would be cool.
-This leaves me to the end. I won't say it wasn't satisfying that Ichigo was able to defeat Aizen. And yes, I do feel like his new power was earned. 3 months of training. But this was clearly a last minute decision to save Aizen for a later date and the show must go on. I do feel like it wasn't as satisfying as 200+ chapter buildup needed to be.
The Fullbring Arc - Chapters 424-479 - Rating: 8/10
-A very underrated arc. And yes, I acknowledge that rating wise I think the Fullbring arc is superior to the Hueco Mundo arc. That is mostly true. Though I like the first half of the Hueco Mundo Arc more than the Fullbring arc. The end of the HM arc really brought it down for me. The Fullbring Arc is much more concise and is actually the shortest arc in the series and works as a glorified Ichigo getting his powers back arc. But that doesn't mean its bad.
-When I read it originally back when it was coming out in 2010. (Cause I'm Old) It wasn't phenomenal. In fact, I hated it. But wouldn't you? It took just short of a year to get to the point that we were at. But upon rereading it, it gave much deserved love to the characters who hadn't been shown love in quite some time. The original cast. It was a very character focused arc. Ichigo never seemed more human. And despite me hating it before for taking so long, reading weekly can sometimes hurt these mystery based arcs. The twist is heavily foreshadowed and I really appreciated it.
-That being said, the end was super rushed. This was a big bummer for me. The villains this time around were humans. And the ones who had the most exposure and relations with these characters were the original cast who again....were humans. So to have the soul reapers, who have no connection to the fullbringers show up and basically no diff most of the fullbringers felt very forced and fanservicey to me. This very well could have not been Kubo's call. As the community was very vocal about their dislike for this arc as it was going on. But I appreciate it now much more as I appreciate character and story over big sword fights. Lol.
The Thousand Year Blood War Arc - Chapters 424-689 - Rating: 5/10
-And we're finally here. The final and largest arc within the Bleach story. And man...does it not stick the landing.
-That being said, this arc has phenomenal moments. Kenpachi's Shikai and Bankai. Ichigo's double swords. Renji's true Bankai. Rukia's Bankai. And many more. However, they are put together against the most break neck speed arc that I have ever read. Kubo was very ambitious when he introduced 26 new villains. However, most of them got barely any screen time and a lot of them even got off screened by higher level captains. This was unlike the Espada who each got a full double page spread for their Resurrections.
-Yhwach himself was a phenomenal villain but was dealt with swiftly and imo dirty. They did him dirty.
-There was just something off. The mood changed and it was very apparent. The villains had random powers instead of the powers reflecting their personalities or needs. The finale felt so underwhelming.
-Ichigo gets to be the strongest he's ever been....but he doesn't defeat a single person besides the main villain despite being in several fights.
-It isn't a good arc. In fact, I would say it's the worst. Hopefully the anime does a better job with this already mammoth of a story. 260 chapters is no joke.
This gives the story of Bleach an Overall rating of 7.4/10. Which to me is above average. It has it's ups and downs. It's not perfect. But when it's high, it's peak shonen. But when it's low, it's very forgettable.
March 5, 2020
The date of Rukia’s execution keeps getting pushed forward, and now it’s set for noon the next day! The time that was gained on the passage through the Senkaimon will count for nothing if Ichigo doesn’t figure out how to bankai! Without that, he’s doomed to failure!
Hitsugaya finds himself under attack by none other than Hinamori, to his confusion and consternation. She’s found a letter, in the late Captain Aizen’s hand, blaming his death on none other than the captain of the 10th Company. Of course Toshiro is innocent of the charge, but Momo is in no condition to understand that. It doesn’t help that she is being egged on by the ever-smiling Gin Ichimaru.
Meanwhile, Renji has shown up at the place where Ichigo is training. He wants to train there too, to be ready to save Rukia. He informs Ichigo of the change in date of the execution, which causes Yoruichi dismay. But she continues to have faith in Ichigo’s abilities.
Learning of the change, Rukia seems to be accepting of her fate, as her mind turns to a fallen comrade, Assistant Captain Kaien Shiba, the man whose death she is responsible for. Nothing could have changed what happened, and yet she feels guilty for what she did. No wonder Ganju hates her and doesn’t wish to help her. Shiba was his brother. Captain Ukitake tries to talk to Byakuya, but doesn’t understand his acceptance of Rukia’s fate. His own sister!
Thanks to Kenpachi, Orihime is reunited with Ishida, Chad, and Ganju, but they are confronted by Captain Komamura, Captain Tosen, Hisagi, and Iba. Kenpachi says he’ll take them all on. When Ikkaku and Kumchiki show up, the subordinates go off to fight, leaving the captains to it. For his part, Captain Kyoraku is thinking he’ll be the only one to be yelled at by old man Yama, but he has to do what he feels is right.
The clock is ticking and Rukia’s fate lies in Ichigo’s hands. The backstory of Rukia and Kaien is very poignant and explains much. I enjoy seeing such stories about the characters, which flesh them out. Having already watched the anime, it only adds to my enjoyment and knowledge of them, and sometimes explains things I didn’t realize, or things that went by too fast in the anime.
I like the relationship between Hitsugaya and Hinamori, which never wavers through the series. He is very protective of her, just as Matsumoto is protective of him. The brief scene with Shunsui and Nanao is priceless (in case you hadn’t noticed by now, he is quite my favorite lol).
Of course I already know what’s going on, so I won’t speculate on some things, but it is obvious that there are wheels within wheels. Byakuya’s seeming indifference to his sister’s fate is baffling. Also, what is the health issue which seems to greatly affect Ukitake (if it’s explained in the anime, I missed it). We see little of Ichigo’s companions in this volume, but I found it funny to see both Orihime and Yachiru riding on Kenpachi’s shoulders. Kenny is an interesting man. He lives to fight, without rancor or malice but a simple love of fighting. I would never cross this man, although I suspect he has a good heart deep down, and I love his relationship with Yachiru. Gin is enigmatic as ever, and layered much like an onion. And Komamura with the strange mask – what’s up with that? How does he even see?
Then again, Tosen is blind and he manages, reminding me of Geordi La Forge on Star Trek Next Generation, even down to the visor! The race is on to save Rukia and time is running out. If the hero is going to make a dramatic rescue, he had best do it soon! Another great volume, looking forward to more!
Hitsugaya finds himself under attack by none other than Hinamori, to his confusion and consternation. She’s found a letter, in the late Captain Aizen’s hand, blaming his death on none other than the captain of the 10th Company. Of course Toshiro is innocent of the charge, but Momo is in no condition to understand that. It doesn’t help that she is being egged on by the ever-smiling Gin Ichimaru.
Meanwhile, Renji has shown up at the place where Ichigo is training. He wants to train there too, to be ready to save Rukia. He informs Ichigo of the change in date of the execution, which causes Yoruichi dismay. But she continues to have faith in Ichigo’s abilities.
Learning of the change, Rukia seems to be accepting of her fate, as her mind turns to a fallen comrade, Assistant Captain Kaien Shiba, the man whose death she is responsible for. Nothing could have changed what happened, and yet she feels guilty for what she did. No wonder Ganju hates her and doesn’t wish to help her. Shiba was his brother. Captain Ukitake tries to talk to Byakuya, but doesn’t understand his acceptance of Rukia’s fate. His own sister!
Thanks to Kenpachi, Orihime is reunited with Ishida, Chad, and Ganju, but they are confronted by Captain Komamura, Captain Tosen, Hisagi, and Iba. Kenpachi says he’ll take them all on. When Ikkaku and Kumchiki show up, the subordinates go off to fight, leaving the captains to it. For his part, Captain Kyoraku is thinking he’ll be the only one to be yelled at by old man Yama, but he has to do what he feels is right.
The clock is ticking and Rukia’s fate lies in Ichigo’s hands. The backstory of Rukia and Kaien is very poignant and explains much. I enjoy seeing such stories about the characters, which flesh them out. Having already watched the anime, it only adds to my enjoyment and knowledge of them, and sometimes explains things I didn’t realize, or things that went by too fast in the anime.
I like the relationship between Hitsugaya and Hinamori, which never wavers through the series. He is very protective of her, just as Matsumoto is protective of him. The brief scene with Shunsui and Nanao is priceless (in case you hadn’t noticed by now, he is quite my favorite lol).
Of course I already know what’s going on, so I won’t speculate on some things, but it is obvious that there are wheels within wheels. Byakuya’s seeming indifference to his sister’s fate is baffling. Also, what is the health issue which seems to greatly affect Ukitake (if it’s explained in the anime, I missed it). We see little of Ichigo’s companions in this volume, but I found it funny to see both Orihime and Yachiru riding on Kenpachi’s shoulders. Kenny is an interesting man. He lives to fight, without rancor or malice but a simple love of fighting. I would never cross this man, although I suspect he has a good heart deep down, and I love his relationship with Yachiru. Gin is enigmatic as ever, and layered much like an onion. And Komamura with the strange mask – what’s up with that? How does he even see?
Then again, Tosen is blind and he manages, reminding me of Geordi La Forge on Star Trek Next Generation, even down to the visor! The race is on to save Rukia and time is running out. If the hero is going to make a dramatic rescue, he had best do it soon! Another great volume, looking forward to more!
August 3, 2024
VOLUME 16: CHAPTER 131-139
Arc 3: Soul Society: The Rescue
In Aizen's letter before he died, he told that there is a conspiracy that being covered by Rukia's execution. The conspirator wants the Terminal Duo that will used to execute the convict. The seal of the Teminal Duo will be lifted during the day of execution and it held greater power. Aizen said that the conspirator is Hitsugaya Toushiro. Hitsugaya released his Shikai, Hyourinmaru to fight Ichimaru. Rangiku arrived to give aid and the fight is end.
Rukia's execution was changed to 29 hours. Renji joined Ichigo's training as he also want to unlock his Bankai. Rukia remembered her memories with Kaien. Kaien is the Vice Captain of the 13th Division. His wife is the 3rd seat of the division. Her squad was obliterated by a Hollow. Kaien, Rukia and Ukitake went to hunt the Hollow. The Hollow is the parasitic one and it managed to take over Kaien's body. Rukia had no choice to kill Kaien.
Kenpachi released Ishida, Chad and Ganjyu to help him find Ichigo. They confronted Captain Tosen, Captain Komamura, Vice Captain Iba and Vice Captain Hisagi. Ikkaku and Yumichika joined Kenpachi to fight four of them.
Arc 3: Soul Society: The Rescue
In Aizen's letter before he died, he told that there is a conspiracy that being covered by Rukia's execution. The conspirator wants the Terminal Duo that will used to execute the convict. The seal of the Teminal Duo will be lifted during the day of execution and it held greater power. Aizen said that the conspirator is Hitsugaya Toushiro. Hitsugaya released his Shikai, Hyourinmaru to fight Ichimaru. Rangiku arrived to give aid and the fight is end.
Rukia's execution was changed to 29 hours. Renji joined Ichigo's training as he also want to unlock his Bankai. Rukia remembered her memories with Kaien. Kaien is the Vice Captain of the 13th Division. His wife is the 3rd seat of the division. Her squad was obliterated by a Hollow. Kaien, Rukia and Ukitake went to hunt the Hollow. The Hollow is the parasitic one and it managed to take over Kaien's body. Rukia had no choice to kill Kaien.
Kenpachi released Ishida, Chad and Ganjyu to help him find Ichigo. They confronted Captain Tosen, Captain Komamura, Vice Captain Iba and Vice Captain Hisagi. Ikkaku and Yumichika joined Kenpachi to fight four of them.
August 23, 2019
It's boring to rate all of the Bleach volumes at 4 stars, so I kind of look for excuses to occasionally bump that rating up or down. Bleach v.16 is an easy bump down, as half of it is flashback. I don't really like flashbacks to begin with, but something about Bleach flashbacks feel more like thumb-twiddling than most. Maybe to v.16 credit, this flashback is pretty crucial, but it was still a slog--especially because we're at a point in the Soul Society arc where things are rapidly coming to a head, and the sudden flashback pushes the pause button on those things for a pretty significant amount of time. I mean, when we're not in flashback mode, we've got a quick battle between Hitsugaya and Ichimaru, Kenpatchi displaying his famous lack of direction, Ishida getting captivated by butterflies, and the introduction of several captains we haven't really seen yet up to this point. So there's some cool stuff amid all that flashback nonsense.
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