In this chapter we begin just after the defeat of Barragan Ruizenbān, the king or god of Hueco Mondo and the Segunda (2nd) Espada at the hands of Hachigen Ushōda and Soifon.This chapter is a classic feature of most anime and manga, where upon the death of a major character there is almost always a flashback providing additional background information on that character so we, the viewer/reader, can better understand how they became to there.

The Formidable Foes

This chapter is no exception to that rule.

During this flashback we learn where Barragan came from and how exactly he came to be under the rule of Sōsuke Aizen. One of the things I think is executed brilliantly is the absolute power Aizen commands and the amazing gentility in which he commands it. He appears so polite, so friendly and at the same time his power is quite ferocious and devastating.

Throughout the chapter we get glimpses of the raw power of not just Aizen, but also Gin Ichimaru and Kaname Tōsen. It’s almost as though this chapter serves two purposes. While we learn more about Barragan we also see that Aizen, Ichimaru and Tosen are formidable foes and they are strong enough even to bring the king/god of the Hueco Mondo under their authority.

There is not much else to this chapter. There are some poignant words spoken, particularly by Hachigen, who explains that even though Barragan appeared powerful, he had the same weakness and fears as anyone else, despite the fact he continually maintained that he was a god.

Beyond such sentiments it feels more a case of 1 down 2 to go, as now just the Primera Espada and Tercera Espada stand in the way of the Gotei-13 and a showdown with Aizen, Ichimaru and Tosen.

Bleach Fan Art

How exactly they will take down the Primera, Starrk remains to be seen, especially as he has already proven to be more than a handful for potentially the most powerful Captain (with the exception of the General) of the Gotei-13, Shunsui Kyōraku – who looks uncannily like Jubei Kibagami from Ninja Scrolls. Anyone else noticed this?

Well I think it’s safe to say we are all looking forward to the next showdown with ever increasing impatience, especially since the Bleach anime is running filler at the moment. All I can say is, I cannot wait till this section of the story reaches the anime. To see how the manga is interpreted into motion is always a delight to behold.

Till then, drop some feedback below on how you think this arc is progressing. Who do you think will be the one to take down the Primera?