#b) how many times has he had to make that call about ikkaku...

[every-yumichika]

[recurring-polynya]

I have to say I knew that at one point renji, ikkaku, yumichika and iba were in the same squad with kenpachi but good god you managed to paint a beautiful picture for me. I simply assumed that for them it was simply party time all the time along with a few bald jokes but this is much better. Emotionally healthy squad 11 which still love fighting more than anything. I always cringed when someone would just describe them as hooligans that do nothing but fighting. I mean they do that too but I love the idea that they are all emotionally healthy and mature, a loving and supportive family to their own - in their own wakka doodoo kind of way thats endearing - and of course they are in my opinion they single capable force against sexisim. Because they don't care about anything else - gendere, sexuality, gender performances, race, mentality or anything - other than if you fight good you respectable and if you fight good in squad 11 you family. ( like when kenpachi just became captain he made yachiru his lieutenant and no one was against it no one thought it was beneath them, sure thru nag at her sometimes but that's mostly in a banter like way because she call them stupid nicknames but no one hates her for being unrightfully their superior. One day they got a new captain and a new lieutenant that's a child and they just went with it.) I admit their disdain and disrespect to squad 4 is still frowned upon but I do believe some squad 4s can handle their own, it's just that we saw the really peaceful ones. Anyways sorry for ranting. Just wanted to say that yeah, I really like how the past squad 11 with iba and renji in it was a great place in general. I think if they found out some one was being sexist - for whatever reason - they would be there right next to nanao - or iba's mom protesting. Kenpachi and yachiru as well. And that makes me want to be squad 11 ,despite not being much for fighting, so bad.

So, for starters, thanks! I try to have fun whenever I write Squad 11, and I’m glad you enjoy my take on them.

My Squad 11 is just... really not very canon, though. Canon Squad 11 is actually pretty gross and sexist. Yumichika is transphobic, Kenpachi makes homophobic remarks about Yumichika, they bully Squad 4, there’s a filler episode devoted to a guy that Ikkaku bullied for, like 100 years because the guy lost his reiatsu saving Ikkaku’s dumb ass.

When you write fanfic, you occasionally run into these more problematic aspects of the source media, and you can choose to dig in and analyze them, or just... remake them in your own way. Take for example, Gin. If you read fanfic about Gin, there are some people who will peel away the layers of him and his fears and insecurities and still make him be a horrible gremlin, and it’s really stellar writing. Other people prefer to write him in an AU where maybe less bad stuff happened to him, and he’s more mischievous than sociopathic, and this is a less meaty interpretation, but it’s also more fun. Sometimes fanfic is a meal and sometimes it’s candy. It fulfills different needs and different fantasies and all of it is welcome.

Yumichika, who for me is the fulcrum of Squad 11, presents this problem. I really don’t like the way his “appreciation for beauty” plays out in canon. He doesn’t actually appreciate beauty, he just likes telling other people they’re ugly. I don’t think he’s ever pointed out beauty in anyone else aside from himself or his zanpakutou. I remember the first time I watched his fight with Charlotte and it struck me as so off -- why wouldn’t he find her beautiful? I mean, I know it’s a transmysogynistic joke, that’s why, men dressed as women is funny, hurr hurr, but Yumichika is gender nonconforming himself. This was an opportunity to make a cool character point, and Kubo took the cheap laughs road instead. Going back to what I said last paragraph, a skilled writer could, in theory, write about his insecurities and his brittleness and meanness and write a pretty compelling story, but a) Kubo certainly doesn’t, and I have never actually found a Yumichika-centric fanfic of this nature, and b) this doesn’t fit the role I need him to play in my stories. I am rarely really interested in writing about Squad 11 for its own sake. I like to write them as a backdrop for the period of Renji’s afterlife where he hit absolute rock bottom and bounced back up again. We already know the role Ikkaku played in this, except that Ikkaku is a complete moron in terms of mental health, and I really, really felt like this is where Yumichika needed to come in.

I like to massage Yumichika’s character a bit, but I do want to keep the flavor of some of his character flaws-- he’s still shallow and mean and judgy, and I love that for him, but I like to add in a positive side to his appreciation for beauty. Having Yumichika make fun of Izuru’s pores is funny but it’s even funnier if he’s just given Renji a compliment on his hair first. The idea that a Yumichika compliment is attainable makes all his drags the more vicious. Yumichika also judged people by their beauty instead of their moral character, which is humorous to me. He dislikes Byakuya as a person, but is obsessed with his haircare regime. I like to have him treat Rangiku as an equal, beauty-wise, and a person whose opinion he respects based on her aesthetic. Rangiku is actually a pretty savvy and very emotionally intelligent person whom many people write off because she likes to present herself as a lazy airhead, so in an extremely convoluted way, this all works out. I like to think that Yumichika’s ideas of beauty are also caught up in boldness and risk-taking and having one’s outward presentation ring true to their inner self. To me, this is the core of why he loves Ikkaku. To him, Ikkaku’s devotion to doing the most Ikkaku thing at all times, no matter how stupid, is irresistibly sexy. 

Aside: At some point, I decided that the fact that a lot of people in Bleach have colorful marks on their faces and elaborate hairstyle and accessory games implied that make-up in Soul Society is gender neutral. I like to think there is actually more of a divide between the nobility, who like their make-up to follow rules and be classy, and, well, Squad 11, who like to get make-up ideas from Jem and the Holograms. I don’t even wear makeup (I don’t know how and it’s expensive and I am ashamed of myself, we can talk about my own gender presentation later) but I like to write about both my male and female characters wearing make-up. I don’t actually know how my readers feel about it, but it just falls under the “Is that what people want?”/���It’s what we do” philosophy of all my writing.

I think one of the theses of my writing is that middle management is more important to the character of a squad than the person at the top. Captains sort of act as ideals to strive for, but they are generally unapproachable for one reason or another. Yachiru is more like her captain in this respect (which makes sense, since she is, in fact part of her captain). Ikkaku and Yumichika present this dual idea that 1) strength is awesome, fighting and being the best is awesome, and 2) part of strength is presenting yourself to the world in a bold and confrontational way. (The fact that both of them are hiding huge parts of themselves is laughably ironic). Kenpachi and Yachiru are shining examples of Do Whatever You Want and Be So Strong That No One Can Stop You. 

What really makes this work is that you need someone one layer down-- does anyone actually subscribe to this nonsense, and that’s why Iba - Abarai Squad 11 is Best Squad 11. I really, really enjoy the genre of Reddit posts where a total bro will find out that his girlfriend is trans and react by becoming a vehement advocate for trans rights. I love the bodybuilders typing encouragement to each other meme. Our world is flooded with disingenuous messages from concern trolls trying to tell us why being kind and inclusive to one another is bad or that you should reject help because struggle makes you stronger and the idea of a Himbo looking at something like that and saying “that seems dumb" is delightful to me.

I actually feel like there are a lot of awful people with bad ideas in Squad 11, it’s just that Renji and Iba don’t put up with their shit, and over time, that becomes the culture of Squad 11. I think that Squad 11 has incredibly turnover, but the ones who stay are the ones who subscribe to the ideas you mentioned-- fighting is what matters, if you wanna go argue about shit, go join Squad 5. In the IkkaYumi story I wrote, which happens shortly after Zaraki takes over, a ton of people leave. The Bount Arc (which I know a lot of people skipped) features a dude who was extremely pissed off because he had liked the old Kenpachi and thought Zaraki sucked and was so mad about it that he betrayed Soul Society. You might think that this arc would feature Zaraki caring about this in some way shape or form, but he really didn’t. So, I think there are a lot of Soul Reapers that took issue with serving under a little girl as a vice captain, they just aren’t in Squad 11 anymore.

Oh, one last note on Iba’s mom. I am of an age where a number of my friends have mothers who were Second Wave Feminists. The moms in question are a real mixed bag, because they Came From a Different Time, and on one hand, you have to respect what they went through, and on the other hand, they are very difficult to get along with. I liked the idea that Iba has always chafed against his mom and her big personality, and then Renji comes in, and is like, “hey, your mom is strong as hell and she has a lot of ideas that I never thought of but they make sense” and Iba realizes that, even though she’s still a huge pain in his ass, his mom is the person who made him who he is. Moms are complex.

Uhhhh, I have definitely lost the thread of wherever I was going with this post. Thank you for enjoying my Squad 11, which is nothing like canon Squad 11. Hopefully maybe this year, I will actually finish my Squad 11 Self Care story, where Renji stops being a drunk disaster person after Yumichika teaches him how to fill his brows; I got stuck on a part where Rangiku gives Renji a talk on ethical sluttery.

[tayman001]

GrimmIchi (post epilogue): Includes some Anime characters and an original character of mine also using Anime terms. 2

Taylor: The maximum amount of kids a man can give birth at one time is 10 and the number in general is random each time so...

Grimmjow (visibly scared): shaking uncontrollably Ichigo: Great Tay now you've freaked out Grimm... tries to comfort Grimmjow Taylor: ...you have to wait another month until we know for sure how many at once you'll be having but I will say this 10 is the rarest amount and only a lucky few ever get only that amount. Grimmjow: Then I hope I'm not lucky because I don't think I'd survive that... Kazui: Awesome so if it is 10 I'd have 10 younger half brothers! Ichigo: Kazui don't you see your Dadjow is freaking out. Kazui: Isn't he an Arrancar? If so than shouldn't his Hierro protect him from harm? Grimmjow (visibly panicked): Ichigo: Please go to your room Kazui because you aren't helping. Kazui goes to his room Uryū: If you want I can be his personal Doctor to make sure he doesn't suffer any injuries during his pregnancy, Ichigo. Ichigo: Sure, Uryū. Taylor: You'll probably say no but I can inject something into him specifically designed to allow him to survive just in case it turns out he is to have 10 kids. Ichigo: You sound like Mayuri with his experiments so no. Taylor: If you think its an experiment you are wrong so no I'm not mimicking Captain Kurotsuchi since I actually test my experiments on clones of volunteers that are specifically designed to run tests on so that actual people aren't harmed so no the substance has already been tested and is unharmful in fact it actually will make him live longer but if you truly don't trust me or my science then fine, if Grimmjow does and 10 kids and ends up dying you'll have no one to blame but yourself. proceeds to walk away Ichigo: Wait... Fine inject him with it. BUT IF HE ENDS UP DEAD YOU'LL BE DEAD BECAUSE I'LL KILL YOU IN COLD BLOOD! Taylor: If I wanted him dead I'd never have said anything. injects the formula into Grimmjow Grimmjow (feeling drunk): his words are slurd and are not understandable Ichigo: What the fuck have you done to him! I TRUSTED YOU! Taylor: That is supposed to happen idiot and its only temporary it does that so he doesn't feel any pain during the procedure. Grimmjow (still feeling drunk): changes are happening inside him that aren't affecting his pregnancy *moments later* Grimmjow (is an immobile slob): What happened and why can't I move? Ichigo: What the fuck have you done to him Taylor! Taylor: He needs that wait to survive the 10 kids since the pregnancy needs blood to give birth and as a result of the pregnancy any fat he has is measured in blood for the pregnancy so each pound of fat is equal to a liter of blood and each child needs 100 liters of blood to be used to successfully be born and for the pregnant man to survive with 100 extra liters per child just in case the procedure takes longer than the estimated time so in total for 10 kids he needs to weigh 2000 pounds which he now weighs well plus the weight he had prior and if you are worried about his weight the formula makes it so he never suffers health problems again and I even have a formula solely for the no health problems just in cause you were worried about your gluttonous appetite might lead to those and I have another formula solely for always being mobile. Ichigo: Yes inject both of those sole formulas into me then inject the mobile one into Grimmjow. Taylor: does just that Ichigo: Now leave... I wanna go order 50 boxes of Pizza. Taylor leaves and so does Uryū A month later Ichigo (pigging out on some pizza): moans and chumping Grimmjow (feels 10 things kicking inside him as they form): moans in pain Ichigo: Grimm what's wrong? Grimmjow: moans in pain Ichigo: Grimm please say something! Grimmjow: moans in pain call... moans in pain ...everyone. moans in pain Ichigo: calls everyone An hour later Taylor, Kazui, Uryū, Brandan, Rukia, Renji, Ichika, Chad, Noba, Orihime, Nozomi, Karin, Yuzu and Riruka show up Karin and Nozomi: Ichigo why'd you call us like I don't see why... Karin: ...Nozy and me... Nozomi: ...Kary and me... Karin and Nozomi: ...had to come.

Yuzu: Karin you do realize I was called to so don't go assuming Ichigo called you and your girlfriend on a whim since he probably has a reason for calling all of us. Chad and Noba: silence Rukia and Renji: Why did you call all of us? Riruka: I bet something stupid. Orihime: Maybe it has something to do with Grimmjow's pregnancy? Uryū and Brandan: Probably. Kazui and Ichika: But why were we called aren't we still too young to hear where babies come from? Taylor: I doubt that is why we were called here since if that were the case they would have only called the two of you not all of us. Shinji, Shunsui, Nanao, Momo, Suì-Fēng, Nelliel, Marechiyo, Kensei, Shūhei, Kisuke, Yoruichi, Rose, Izuru, Isane, Kiyone, Byakuya, Tetsuzaemon, Atau, Lisa, Yuyu, Mashiro, Tōshirō, Rangiku, Kenpachi, Ikkaku, Yumichika, Mayuri, Akon, Sentarō, Tatsuki, Keigo, Mizuiro and Chizuru show up Taylor: Hi, Captain Hirako, Head Captain Shunsui, Lieutenant Ise, Lieutenant Hinamori, Captain Suì-Fēng, Nel, Lieutenant Omaeda, Captain Muguruma, Lieutenant Hisagi, Kisuke, Yoruichi, Captain Ōtoribashi, Lieutenant Kira, Captain Kotetsu, Lieutenant Kotetsu, Captain B Kuchiki, Captain Iba, Lieutenant Rindō, Captain Yadōmaru, Lieutenant Yayahara, Lieutenant Kuna, Captain Hitsugaya, Lieutenant Matsumoto, Captain Zaraki, Lieutenant Madarame, 3rd Seat Ayasegawa, Captain Kurotsuchi, Lieutenant Akon, Lieutenant Sentarō, Tatsuki, Keigo, Mizuiro and Chizuru. Shinji: ...Taylor I told you, you can call me Shinji I don't care much about formalities. Shunsui: Hey Taylor. Nanao: You'll never get promoted Taylor if you slack off and don't do what your ordered to do! Taylor: Lieutenant Ise who said I wanted a promotion? Since I'm perfectly fine staying unseated even if I have the strength of a Captain. Momo: Nanao why not just let it go? Nanao: I might as well since he seems to have his mind set. Suì-Fēng (focused on Yoruichi and not realizing she is talking out loud): I wanna marry Lady Yoruichi! Yoruichi (hearing Suì-Fēng say that): flash steps over to her So its a promise then? Suì-Fēng (shocked and embarrassed): I, uh... Yoruichi: kisses Suì-Fēng Suì-Fēng and Yoruichi leave to spend some alone time Taylor: Well that was kinda unexpected but I had a feeling that info would soon come out. Nel: I fell on my face when I arrived since I keep tripping out of the sky Garganta. Taylor: If you don't look wounded than its clear that your Hierro is strong enough to protect you from the impact. Nel: True. Marechiyo: I kinda knew Captain Suì-Fēng was a Lesbian all along! Suì-Fēng returns and kicks Marechiyo so hard he passes out and needs medical attention Taylor: I would have told him to shut up but it was already too late since as soon as he opened his mouth I knew it was only a matter of time before this happened. Kensei and Shūhei: Yeah he can be a idiot sometimes. Taylor: Say how is your lives treating you after the two of you tied the knot? Kensei and Shūhei: Pretty good. Shūhei: And I'm Pregnant and he is due next month. Kensei: I'm still kinda scared to be a father. Since the last time I tried to handle crying all I could come up with was "Laugh or else!!!!" Shūhei: Yeah and that was 100 years ago when you were yelling that to me when I was a kid. Kensei: Yeah but I'm still confused on why you stopped crying? Shūhei: I saw your chest and 69. Kensei: Oh come here. Kensei and Shūhei make out Kisuke: I wish Tessai could have been here... Taylor: Why where is he? Kisuke: Hospital... Someone ran him over in a hate crime. starts crying Taylor: He is gonna be ok, Kisuke after all he is your husband and you know how strong he is. Kisuke (stops crying): Yeah you're right. Rose: playing his guitar Izuru: guarding the perimeter Isane: gets bumped into I'm sorry that was my fault. Kiyone: Isane its not your fault you were the one bumped into not him since he bumped into you. Byakuya: Ichigo Kurosaki why the fuck did you ask all of us here like really. Taylor: Captain B Kuchiki, I think it has to do with his husband Grimmjow's pregnancy.

Byakuya: ...wasn't he married to Orihime Inoue? Orihime: He was but I divorced him once he told me the truth so that he could marry the one he loves. Tetsuzaemon: Atau I'm gonna go take Sajin for a since he is is bugging me to walk him. Atau: does ok in sign language Taylor: Let me guess Captain Iba, you are taking care of Sajin Komamura who was your captain back when you were the Lieutenant of Squad 7 but who was turned into a wolf after using the Humanization Technique back during the war with the Quincy. Tetsuzaemon (ashamed): Yeah... Taylor: There is no reason to feel ashamed after all he was your captain for a long time and you still care for him and its not in your nature to leave anyone behind, now is it. Tetsuzaemon: That is true. Taylor: I can look at ways to reverse his condition if you want I just need to clone him genetically so he doesn't end up dying in case a formula doesn't work. Tetsuzaemon: I'll have to ask him. Taylor: If he is in the form a normal wolf he can't speak in any language that we as humanoids can understand so how can you understand his wolf speak? Tetsuzaemon: He taught me it when he was still a werewolf. Taylor: Oh. Lisa: Hey Taylor. question do you have Line? Taylor: Uh no but I have Facebook. Lisa: You should get Line! Yuyu: Yeah get line!~ Taylor: How about stop asking! Mashiro (using her Hollow mask): Mashiro Super Cero! Taylor: jumps out of his body, puts on his hollow mask and blocks the cero with his hand Mashiro: Big deal so you countered it... Here it goes Mashiro Drop Kick. Taylor: grabs her foot and throws her across the room Mashiro (dizzy): I was just getting started... passes out Kensei and Shūhei: She deserved that. Tōshirō: Why is it that everyone is so manic today? Rangiku: Relax Captain. Kenpachi: attempts to attack Taylor Taylor: cuts Kenpachi's arm off Kenpachi: Asshole! Taylor: I warned you never to attack me. Ikkaku and Yumichika: Well it looks like we need to take the Captain to Orihime again... Mayuri: I would like to test a new drug on you Taylor. Taylor: Too late you are already testing new drug of mine. Mayuri: Huh? Akon: Captain... Get off me your crushing me. Mayuri: Well now look what your drug did Taylor, I can't move and if I don't get off of Akon quickly I'm gonna end up killing him. Taylor: checking Akon's vital signs Nope he is lying in fact he is too ashamed to admit it that he is actually aroused by all of this and is in fact not being crushed to death. Akon: blushing Mayuri: blushing Oh so he likes this huh? Maybe this isn't so bad after all. Sentarō: I'm gonna go fight with Kiyone for old time sake. goes over to where Kiyone is to pick a fight Tatsuki and Chizuru: making out Keigo and Mizuiro: making out Taylor: Ichigo please tell me you didn't invite anybody else. Since I doubt this place can handle anymore people. Ichigo: Nope this is everyone. Kazui: Dad I'm sleepy can I rest on your belly until I can reach my room? Ichigo: Sure Kazui. Kazui: climbs onto Ichigo's fat belly and falls to sleep Ichigo: starts eating more pizza Hours later Ichigo (looking like a immobile blob): I think I ate too much pizza. Kazui: still sleeping Taylor: Well you aren't immobile even though you look like it. Rukia: GET THE FUCK UP ICHIGO! Taylor: Captain R Kuchiki there is no need to yell like do you wanna wake Kazui? Rukia: Oops sorry. Kazui: still sleeping so... comfy... love... dad's... fatness.... so.... soft...... Ichigo: Please tell me he'll wake up eventually since I don't intend to have him sleep only on my belly. Taylor: Depends on his actions. everyone eventually clears out except for Taylor, Rukia, Renji, Ichika, Orihime, Riruka, Chad, Noba, Karin, Nozomi, Yuzu, Uryū and Brandan Kazui: still sleeping Ichigo: Why has he still not woken up like did he fall in love with my belly or something? Taylor: That is a likely reason. Grimmjow: If he loves it why not teleport him in and have him stay there until I give birth to his half brothers. Ichigo: Yeah I'm not gonna risk digesting Kazui, Grimm.

Noba: I have that risk when I do my job as a living Taxi. So I release my passengers as soon as I start burping just so I don't digest them and they never reach their destination because of it. Rukia and Renji: Yuck. Chad: What's so yuck about it, its hot. Karin and Nozomi: We have to agree with Rukia and Renji since YUCKY! Yuzu: I agree with Mr. Giant since if my Future Husband went around and did that I'd be turned on by it. Uryū and Brandan: We are agreeing with Chad and Yuzu. Taylor: I like it as well. Orihime: Of course you would after all you made this Gigai for Noba since Kisuke decided against making them any new Gigai for the three of them... speaking of which where is Ririn and Kurōdo? Riruka: I wouldn't know since I have never met them. Meanwhile Ririn: showing off her new sexy look which she's been doing for years Kurōdo: showing off his new handsome look which he's been doing for years Meanwhile Taylor: I have a feeling they haven't stop doing what they said they were gonna do when I made and gave the three of them their new Gigai. Sometimes I wish that I didn't ask them what they wanted and just remade their original Gigai and only asked Noba what he wanted. Meanwhile Gō Koga returns to Karakura Town for the first time in years Koga: I really hope those kids don't assume I'm here for revenge. Meanwhile Noba: A Bount! Meanwhile Ririn and Kurōdo: BOUNT! Meanwhile Ichigo: But the only Bount left would be the one with the Doll known as Dalk the one who Yoruichi said Thanks me for defeating Kariya. Uryū: You think he is here for revenge. Taylor: Doubt it since I can sense him and based on his Spirit Energy he isn't here to fight in fact he is here for peace. Rukia, Renji, Chad, Noba, Ichigo, Grimmjow, Orihime, Riruka, Uryū, Brandan and Ichika: HUH? Kazui: still sleeping gay Taylor: Um.... where'd Kazui decide to say that out of the blue sure he is sleeping but still it must have been a reason. Rukia, Renji, Chad, Noba, Ichigo, Grimmjow, Orihime, Riruka, Uryū, Brandan and Ichika: Beats us. Gō Koga shows up in the house Koga: Sorry to barge in uninvited but I wanted to say sorry for my actions years ago... wait... I must have the wrong house since none of you look familiar. Taylor: The ones who you've never seen before are myself, Grimmjow the blue haired guy, Kazui the little orange haired guy who is sleeping, Ichika the red haired little girl with violet eyes, Brandan the auburn hair guy and Riruka the magenta haired lady with the magenta eyes. I'm pretty sure you remember Ichigo, points to Ichigo Uryū, points to Uryū Rukia, points to Rukia Renji, points to Renji Orihime, points to Orihime Chad, points to Chad and Noba. points to Noba Koga: WAIT HOW LONG HAS IT BEEN? Taylor: 10 years and 20 months since you and the other Bounts showed up about 3 months before the fight with Aizen took place and its been 10 years and 17 months since that fight with Aizen. Koga: ...I might as well leave since it seems I waited to long to apologize. proceeds to leave Ichigo, Rukia, Orihime, Chad, Uryū, Renji and Noba: There is no need to leave. Koga: OK if you... Ririn and Kurōdo show up Ririn: Stop there this is no place for someone of your kind Bount. Kurōdo: If you don't leave we will have to destroy you. Taylor: Ririn and Kurōdo back down he isn't an enemy any longer. To Be Continued

[missstormcaller]

BLEACH JET Artbook Talk Vol 2 - 2 Translation (Q31-42)

Q.31: Out of all the poems that appear at the beginning of each volume, which volume's poem is the one that you are most pleased with?

Kubo: Which volume I wonder. I'd say I'm more or less pleased with all of them.

—— J: Are there any that stand out to you the most? Kubo: In terms of my basic preferences, I'm quite fond of poems that involve numbers, like when Orihime appeared on the front cover (volume 27) "we have not one in common, no two are shaped alike~", and the poem where Yhwach appears on the cover (volume 55) "take one step in and never return~", I like these two poems. This is completely unrelated, but in terms of character techniques, I'm also quite pleased with "Burner Finger 1, 2, 3~" the technique used by Bazz-B which was demonstrated in his final chapters.

Q.32: A large number of characters have made an appearance in "BLEACH", but who has become Kubo sensei's absolute favourite male and female characters from among them?

Kubo: As for my characters, I like them all. Even though I like voluptuous figures, drawing them is difficult so I cannot make that a sweeping generalisation of who I prefer drawing. When "BLEACH -Brave Souls-" came out, Nelliel, Orihime and Rangiku were what my focus was more drawn to. I like drawing busty characters wearing sexy swimsuits after all (laughs).

—— J: What about male characters?

Kubo: I like all the male characters roughly the same. I do not like nor dislike anyone in particular.

Q.33: Among the characters that appear in "BLEACH", is there anyone who makes sensei go "I want to be this guy!" If so, please tell us.

Kubo: There's no one I'd want to be (laughs).

—— J: Conversely, is there anyone you would absolutely not want to be?

Kubo: I have never given any consideration to which character "I would like to be, or not like to be" (laughs).

—— J: Maybe a squad 12 soldier or something…?

Kubo: I don't want to be a character whose days are numbered (laughs).

Q.34: Which character among the cast of "BLEACH" does sensei believe most resembles himself? Furthermore, does sensei project a bit of himself into his characters?

Kubo: There is no character that takes after me. I don't think I project myself into my characters. When I'm composing my story and characters, I'm looking at it through the eyes of an onlooker, I don't deviate from that position. Like when you're observing unfamiliar characters in action within a dream for example, it's entirely the standpoint of an onlooker.

—— J: Does it feel like you're watching a movie?

Kubo: That's right. There's absolutely no bit of "myself" to be found there at all, it's like I'm watching the scene from the viewpoint of a third party. Unless a character that embodies "myself" appears in that space, I am not a party to said dream. Thus I have maintained that "BLEACH" is the story of Ichigo and others all the way to the end, so it has nothing to do with me.

Q.35: If Kubo sensei could enlist in the Gotei 13, which squad would he want to join?

Kubo: Huh!? I don't think I could enlist. It seems tough so I don't want to join (laughs). You must have to go through an absurd amount of physical training right!? However, if there is a position where one can draw illustrations on the other hand….

—— J: What if you were a member of staff working on the production of Seireitei Communication?

Kubo: But that would mean I'd be Hisagi's underling won't it…(laughs).

—— J: Speaking of Seireitei Communication, it's produced by squad 9 isn't it?

Kubo: Correct. If I had drawn an illustration and it was criticised by Hisagi, I would end up thinking something like "that's rich, coming from Hisagi…", so on second thought, I don't want to join at all (laughs).

Q.36: Throughout the whole story, which battle scenes were drawn with the most emotional attachment and enthusiasm?

Kubo: What I want to draw for each battle scene is different. Some scenes I wanted to draw purely for the action, and other scenes I wanted to draw for story progression…. What I enjoyed drawing with regard to action, is the final Ichigo versus Grimmjow fight for instance.

—— J: How about in terms of story?

Kubo: Thinking about it now, if I had to choose the drawing phase which came the closest, I'd say Bazz-B versus Haschwalth is the most unforgettable.

Q.37: Please tell us which character you can draw with the most ease.

Kubo: Ikkaku!

Q.38: In the story there are various characters who put up a united front, but which pair or team does sensei take a liking to? If Kubo sensei personally found it challenging to depict the sense of distance and relationships between these fellow characters, or if there is any aspect within this subject that sensei was particular about and so on, please tell us about it.

Kubo: Since I portray the teams on the basis of their relationships from the start, I have never had any difficulties with this. On the contrary, after I read the work over again I think there are certain things that made me go something like "I haven't depicted the relationship between this guy and this guy huh?" In that kind of situation, I may decide to reveal it in the form of a side story in the future. Also speaking of the challenges I faced, I decided that I always felt that way about the relationship between Kensei and Mashiro for instance, however I wasn't able to draw much interaction between them in the manga. As the story progressed, I remember thinking "finally I'm able to draw the relationship between these two" in 'The Past Arc'.

Q.39: Which movie adaptation is Kubo sensei's favourite?

Kubo: What left the biggest impression on me is the opening sequence of "Hell Verse" where I had the battle between Ichigo and Ulquiorra remade, I remember how relieved I was by the superb execution. This pleased me greatly. I re-watched that scene alone many times over.

Q.40: Do you ever go back to read "BLEACH"? Are your own illustrations and manga the way you'd like them to be?

Kubo: I think I feel the same for everything, but there are both areas that I love, and areas that make me think "I could have drawn a little more to expand on this." Conversely, when I try to re-examine my work after thinking "I guess I was too excessive here", I discover there are also things I had drawn better than expected. In addition, I think my own drawings are all generally to my liking. I draw manga because I want to draw the way I wish, that being the case, if I didn't like my own art, I wouldn't be drawing in the first place.

Q.41: I get the impression that throughout the entirety of "BLEACH", Kubo sensei has depicted the themes of right and wrong. I would like to ask about Kubo sensei's personal views on right and wrong.

Kubo: I depict the things that are not uniform within myself, in my manga. There are many ways to perceive concepts like "right and wrong", the one within myself is not necessarily the one that is correct. By nature I like to consider things from various angles, so when I see news surrounding an incident on television, I like to examine it through the initial details. If for example the incident happened to be "a person was attacked in a certain place", person by person, I consider the motives that the whole cast may have in the event that the person in question is the culprit. Even if the answers to those questions have already been given out on the news, I ponder things like "if some part of this information turns out to be false, would the answers become the complete opposite?"

Q.42: After composing a work like "BLEACH", is there anything that you made you think "this was non-negotiable"?

Kubo: I don't much draw with a sense of flexibility (laughs). Basically everything was non-negotiable, although, Asada san the editor during my one-shot before serialisation, made various suggestions like "I want you to do it in this way", but since I didn't make any amendments at all in accordance with those suggestions, he no longer asked me to do so midway through (laughs). I knew it would be accepted if it was interesting even if I hadn't made the amendments as pointed out, so I thought "this will do."

Translator’s notes:

Hisagi has an unpopular segment in Seireitei Communication called  “Teach Me! Shūhei Sensei!!” which is what Kubo is likely making a quip at!

[darisu-chan]

Death & Strawberry

Prompt: A Perfect End

Summary: There really was no questioning it. From the beginning, it had always been the two of them, and that is how it’d remain forever.

You can also read it here.

“Why are they taking so long?” Rukia muttered as she paced around the room she was at on the first squad’s barracks.

“Relax, Rukia. I heard that Zaraki-taichou and Ikkaku are late.” Renji said, shrugging. “You know how Captain Zaraki is, he probably got lost on the way here.”

Rukia chuckled a little at that. “Some things never change.” Then, the woman looked around and frowned once again. “Speaking of which, where is Ichigo?”

Renji gulped nervously, and scratched the back of his neck. “I… I don’t know. Maybe he’s showing Zaraki-taichou the way here?”

The woman sighed loudly. “It figures than on this extremely important date, Ichigo would run late.” She ranted, crossing her arms.

Renji gulped again, cursing his friend. He knew from experience that getting on Rukia’s nerves was like a death sentence. He silently prayed for Ichigo’s well-being. “Look, I’m sure he’s gonna be here soon.”

Rukia scoffed, and then smiled at her childhood friend. “Thank you for being here, Renji. It means a lot to me, to us.”

The man smiled at her. “Well, since I’m a lieutenant I had to be here anyway. But I’m glad I could help you.” He joked, and his friend snorted. It had taken a lot of time, actually, and it was only until very recently that they had started talking to each other like they did before the drama of their failed relationship. It was nice to recover their old friendship. Renji didn’t love Rukia in a romantic way, anymore. He was just happy to have his friend back.

Rukia wanted to add something, but was interrupted by the noise coming from outside the room. “Hey! Maybe that’s Ichigo!” Renji said and they both peaked to look outside the room. They found that Soi Fon and Kenpachi were having a disagreement. Ichigo was nowhere in sight.

“I’m so going to kill him.” Rukia muttered through clenched teeth. Renji sweatdropped.

More commotion could be heard outside, and then a breathless Ichigo walked into the room. His jacket was wide opened, revealing his perfect abs. “Yo!” He greeted them.

“Yo?! That’s what you have to say?!” Rukia shouted, completely enraged at his appearance.

Renji took that as his cue to leave. “See you two in a bit!” He said, and then rushed out of the room. No way was he going to witness his friend getting murdered by his wife.

“I’m sorry I’m a little late. I had something I needed to do.” Ichigo excused himself, scratching his neck.

“And pray tell me, what was more important than being here on time?” Rukia said sarcastically.

Ichigo smirked at her. “You’ll see.”

She rolled her eyes. “At least fix your uniform. You have to look presentable!” She scolded him.

The man winked at her. “Do you like what you see?”

The woman would have added something else, but was interrupted by Isane, who entered the room. “The ceremony is about to begin.” She informed them, and went away.

“Ready?” Ichigo asked her, taking her hand.

“Ready. You?” Rukia told him.

“More than ready.”

They walked hand in hand, waiting for the ceremony to begin.

On the hall, all of the captains of the Gotei 13 were standing in front of each other, with Kyouraku Shunsui, the Captain Commander, standing in the middle. His two lieutenants were on his right and left, while the rest of the lieutenants took their places behind their captains. Once they were all set, Kyouraku, with a booming voice, called them. “Will the new captain and lieutenant please enter!”

Rukia fidgeted on her place. Ichigo squeezed her hand gently. “Hey, it’s going to be okay. And, if you want, I can trip on my way there, so all the attention is on me.”

She smiled at him, feeling more at ease after his joke. “It won’t be necessary.”

“Introducing, the captain of the Gotei 13, Kuchiki Rukia!” Kyouraku said loudly.

Rukia, already wearing her haori, took a step forward, her cheeks flushed. “Present!” She said loudly, trying to sound as commanding as possible even if she was a jittering mess.

“Introducing, the lieutenant of the Gotei 13, Kurosaki Ichigo!” Kyouraku spoke again.

Next, Ichigo, who had been admiring his wife, entered the room. “Present!” He was already wearing his armband, the one that had previously belonged to Rukia.

The other captains and lieutenants clapped and congratulated them, welcoming both into their ranks. Finally, after ten long years, all major positions in the squads had finally been filled. Kyouraku looked pleased with the new captain and lieutenant of the thirteenth squad. Byakuya was extremely proud of his sister and even of her husband. He was the first to congratulate them. Ever the lively bunch, all the lieutenants congratulated Ichigo and invited him to a round of sake. He politely declined, saying he had something else to do. They immediately all joked about Ichigo being whipped. He didn’t deny it. Meanwhile, Rukia accepted Kyouraku’s words about Captain Ukitake, and how proud he would have been of her. She almost cried. Next, she spoke to Isane, Lisa, and Soi Fon, the latter seemed pleased to have another woman as captain. Once the celebration was over, and everyone returned to their squads, Rukia finally turned to look at Ichigo, glaring at him.

“What were you thinking?” She hissed.

Ichigo chuckled. “I was thinking on planning a surprise for my wife, given the fact she has just been promoted to captain. I thought she’d like it.” He said cheekily.

“Do not act cute in front of me, Kurosaki Ichigo. That doesn’t explain why you were half naked!” His wife kept scolding him.

“Oh, but I thought you liked it when I showed you my abs.” He teased her, speaking huskily, and taking a step forward to her. She took a step backwards.

“Not if all the Seireitei saw you looking so indecent!” Rukia continued saying. “I don’t want anyone else having a look at those abs!” She exclaimed, blushing and looking irritated.

Ichigo grinned. He took another step forward, and grabbed his wife, hugging her. “I love it when you get jealous and hormonal.”

“Do not tease me, Kurosaki-fukutaichou, I’m mad at you.” She said, but didn’t pull away. Putting her head on his chest, and wrapping her arms around him. “It’s your fault I’m hormonal, after all.”

Ichigo smiled sweetly at that. His arms descended from his wife’s arms, and he put his hands over her stomach. With her Shinigami uniform, and now the haori, it wasn’t as noticeable, but it was there, he could feel its roundness. He rubbed Rukia’s baby bump gently, making her smile. “You weren’t saying that when we found out. Besides, we’re happy to have you here, baby.” He said, speaking to Rukia’s belly.

She snorted. “You’re such an idiot.”

“But I’m your idiot, forever. You promised.” Ichigo said, grinning from ear to ear.

Rukia scoffed at her husband, but smiled nonetheless. “So what was the surprise you were talking about?”

Ichigo smiled. “Oh, you’re gonna need to see it to know.”

“Then what are we waiting for! Let’s go!”

“Aye, aye, Captain.”

They walked in a comfortable silence, their fingertips brushing with each step they took. The whole Seireitei knew they were married, and had been so for two years already, but they didn’t like to display their affection in front of everyone, much less of their squad. They had enough to deal with the gossip on the monthly Shinigami Magazine ─written and published by the Shinigami Women Association─ as it were. They preferred being subtle. Sometimes, they would brush their fingers, or pat each other on their shoulder. They rarely hugged in public. However, they did smile a lot at each other, conveying with that simple gesture all that they were feeling.

They continued walking, thanking all of the Shinigami who congratulated them along the way. They both smiled, feeling proud of each other. Truth be told, their promotions were a dream come true. Rukia wanted to honor Ukitake, who had taught her so many things, and was always there for her. Meanwhile, Ichigo wanted to honor Rukia by being a great lieutenant. After all, she wasn’t only his wife, but she had also been his first mentor. What he knew about being a Shinigami came directly from her. Their promotions also signified one thing: together they made a great team, which was something they were already aware of, but now everyone knew.

They passed by their own squad at last, when Sentarou and Kiyone greeted them.

“Taichou! Fukutaichou! Congratulations!” They said at the same time, surrounding the couple. It felt good to once again have both a captain and a lieutenant in their squad. They felt complete.

“Ah, Kiyone and Sentarou, thank you.” Rukia thanked them. Beside her, Ichigo nodded his thanks too.

“We’re so proud of both of you!” Sentarou said.

“But I’m prouder!” Kiyone added, prompting another fight, which Rukia was already used to by now.

Ichigo rolled his eyes. Those two should confess their feelings already. The pent-up sexual tension was getting too much for him to deal. Besides, everyone in the squad knew they were in love. It would be easier if they just went and said it. Although, their bickering did make him laugh from time to time.

“Kiyone.” Ichigo interrupted them. “Is everything ready?” He asked cryptically.

The girl grinned at him, and gave a thumbs up. “Everything’s all set, fukutaichou.”

“Excellent.” He said.

“What is she talking about?” Rukia asked him.

“Oh, you’ll see. Let’s go.” He took her hand and led her away from the squad.

“See you in a bit, Captain!” Both third seats exclaimed, as Rukia followed her husband.

“Where are you taking me?” She enquired.

“Somewhere close. Are you tired?” He asked her. She was pregnant after all, and had had a long day.

Rukia shook her head. “Not really. I can rest after the surprise.”

Ichigo chuckled. “That’s the spirit.”

They kept walking until their house came into view. It was close to the thirteenth squad, so that they would never arrive late. It was smaller than the Kuchiki Manor by a long shot, but the size was just fine for them. It was medium sized, and it had a beautiful garden along a koi pond, which they tended to every day. It also had enough space for their growing family, and to even house a few guests, like Ichigo’s family whenever they came to visit. The spouses loved it. They had both bought it, with their salaries it hadn’t been so difficult. Byakuya, as a wedding present, had helped them furnish it. Other people had given them items for decoration here and there for the last two years. Currently, it was filled with baby stuff everywhere.

“Why are we home?” Rukia asked Ichigo, with wonder. But before he could answer, a bunch of people she knew came into view.

“Congratulations!” All their friends and family shouted the moment they saw them.

Rukia gasped, and turned to look at Ichigo, clearly shocked. “Is this the surprise?”

“Yes, hope you like it.” He winked at her.

Then, they were surrounded by Ichigo’s family.

“Oh, Rukia-chan, congratulations on that promotion!” Isshin said as he hugged his daughter-in-law. When he hugged her, he felt the bump and smiled. “Oh, let me look at you! Is that my grandchild?” Then, he put his hand on Rukia’s belly, trying to see if the baby would kick.

Rukia laughed, while Ichigo got annoyed. “Can you please stop touching my wife?”

“Shut up, Ichigo! I’m just excited!”

“Oi, aren’t you going to congratulate me too, goat chin?”

“Don’t listen to dad. Congrats, Ichi-nii, Rukia-nee!” Karin said next. Briefly hugging each of them.

“Thanks, Karin.”

Yuzu approached them next. She was carrying a baby on her arms. “Rukia-nee, onii-chan, congratulations! We’re so proud of you! Aren’t you proud of mommy and daddy, Mamoru-chan?” Yuzu said, looking at the one-year-old baby.

The baby boy gurgled the moment he saw his parents, and raised his chubby arms, trying to reach them. “Mama, dada!” He said gleefully.

“Thank you, Yuzu.” Ichigo said. Meanwhile, Rukia giggled when she saw what her son was wearing.

“What is this, Mamoru? Who dressed you like this?” She said, taking her son in her arms. The baby was wearing a bunny suit, which included a hoodie with bunny ears.

“That’s why I got to the ceremony late. Mamoru here didn’t want to wear the suit. He grabbed by robes, and opened them. He was that angry! I agreed it was ridiculous, but that it’d make his mommy happy.” Ichigo said, gently rubbing his fingers on Mamoru’s head.

“Don’t listen to daddy. You look very cute!” Rukia said, and looked into her baby’s eyes, which were of the same color as hers. The baby gurgled in reply.

“Rukia-san, Kurosaki-kun, congratulations!” A heavily pregnant Orihime said, accompanied by Ishida, who was holding her hand.

“Ah, thank you, Inoue.” Ichigo said simply, while both women held each other. The man took his son in his arms. Mamoru started to play with his dad’s hair, which was of the same shade of orange as his.

“Need I remind you she’s not Inoue anymore, Kurosaki.” Ishida said.

“Tch. It’s the same to me. But thanks for coming, Ishida.”

Meanwhile, Orihime gushed on the baby. “Oh, Mamoru-kun, you’re a cutie! Are you going to play with my baby?”

“Oh, yeah, how much longer until she’s born?” Rukia asked Orihime, pointing to the other woman’s large baby bump.

The woman smiled and rubbed her tummy. “Two months.”

Rukia smiled. “Congratulations, Orihime.”

“And how much longer until the new baby comes?” The human woman asked next.

Rukia rubbed her tummy too. “Five months. We still don’t know what it is, but we both have a feeling this time it’s going to be a girl.”

“Excellent! Then our daughters will play together!” Orihime clapped, excited.

“Ichigo, Rukia, congratulations.” Chad approached them next, carrying presents for the couple.

“Thank you, Chad.” Ichigo said, as he clapped his friend on his back.

“Can I carry him?” He asked, looking at the baby on Ichigo’s arms.

“Sure.” Mamoru giggled as Chad carried him and started playing with him.

One by one, all of their friends and the rest of Ichigo’s family approached them. They all congratulated them on their promotions and on the new baby. Mamoru passed from one pair of arms to another, all the guests excited to see the couple’s firstborn, especially their friends from the human world, which had rarely seen the baby. Grimmjow and Nelliel had also come to the party. Grimmjow was specially intrigued by Mamoru, and wanted to ‘test his abilities.’ Everyone promptly kept him away from the baby, with Byakuya being the most worried about his precious nephew associating with such people. Urahara tried to carry him, but Mamoru started crying, which resulted on an angry pair of parents, and Yoruichi being amused.

“Too bad you’re not good with children. What will you do with ours?” She said ironically.

Urahara paled. “Ours? What are you talking about? Wait, Yoruichi-san!”

All of the guests talked about what they had been doing recently, in an effort to catch up. Ishida’s clothing business was thriving. Apparently, he had gained fame after one of his designs had appeared on a fashion magazine, being modeled by his own wife. Orihime had had to put on hold her job at the hospital. It was tiring being pregnant and having to attend patients at the same time. Chad had opened his own gym, where, among other things, he taught kickboxing to both children and adults. He was very happy about it. Tatsuki, after winning a lot of medals, decided to open her own dojo. Mizuiru worked in a legal firm, where he had met a lot of women, he still didn’t want to settle down, though. Keigo remained a bachelor, but was very happy with his job as an accountant. Yuzu had just finished studying to be a chef, and worked at a restaurant nearby the clinic. Isshin still worked at his clinic. Karin had pursued a career as a professional soccer player, and had made it into the big leagues.  As for Urahara, Yoruichi and Tessai, they kept working at Urahara’s shop, aiding the Shinigami who went to Karakura, as well as keeping the amount of Hollows to a bare minimum. The Vizards which remained in Karakura helped them with that. However, honestly both Hiyori and Hachigen spent more time in Soul Society than in the human world. In one way or another, everyone had found their place in the world.

Later that day, Rukia and Ichigo lay in bed, holding each other. Ichigo rubbed Rukia’s belly, while she played with his hair. Mamoru was asleep already in his own room, having been exhausted after a whole day of playing.

“Do you remember when we met?” Ichigo asked suddenly.

Rukia snorted. “Of course. How could I ever forget? You were the weirdest human I had ever come across.”

He laughed. “And I thought you were a burglar.”

“Yeah, you even kicked my ass!” His wife said, feigning outrage.

“Well, it’s not like you haven’t already taken revenge on that. In fact, that day you used Kido on me and painted a moustache on my face!”

“Oh, right.” Rukia snorted. “I had forgotten about all that, Your Highness, Mr. Baron.” She teased him.

“Shut up.”

“But why do you ask?” Rukia asked again, turning to look at his face.

“I’ve been thinking about that.” Ichigo said, shrugging.

“Is it about destiny again?” She asked him, remembering a similar conversation they had had.

“Not really. Well, it has to do with destiny, but that’s not all. I’ve just been thinking about that, when we met, I never thought you’d be so important to me. And now, we’re here, married, with a beautiful son and a baby on the way, and we’ve just been promoted. It seems amazing to me how my life changed so much. One day I was a normal human, and the next I was a Shinigami.” Ichigo expressed himself, animatedly.

“You were never that normal to begin with. You could see spirits.” Rukia jested.

“Yeah, but I never imagined how life after death was. Then, when I knew, I found myself feeling more alive as a spirit than as a human. I found my purpose and even more than that. I found love, and I got my own family. I would have never done that without you.” He said earnestly, taking her hands in his.

Rukia smiled tenderly at him. “Before I met you, I felt so lonely. In a sense, I was more than dead. But now, I fulfilled my goals, and I have a family of my own. Most importantly, I found you, Ichigo.”

He pecked her lips softly. “We’re better together, huh?”

“The best team ever.” Rukia nodded.

Ichigo started playing with her long her, as he spoke again. “And it will continue to be so, for a long time.”

Rukia smiled, and the baby inside her kicked, as if agreeing with her father’s words. They were the Death and the Strawberry, after all. Nothing would ever change that. The blade had already been swung down.

[recurring-polynya]

Zanpakutou Rebellion Arc Recap, p4

I am going to try to make this one shorter. We are past the Rukia and Renji fights, so maybe I can find it within myself to not analyze everything that happens to death. Ha ha, ganbatte, Polynya!

Following Renji and Ichigo’s successes at winning back their zanpakutou, everyone decides to go out and just get their zanpakutou back. At one point, my husband was like, “everyone’s using kidou, huh?” and I replied, “Yes, well, when Renji has managed to subdue his zanpakutou with kidou, it seems like a pretty good strategy.”

Speaking of people who like to copy Renji, Byakuya mysteriously breaks into the archives and knocks out every single guard he finds. I feel strongly that he was incredibly jealous of the time Renji beat up every single person in Squad 6 while busting out of prison, and has been looking for an opportunity to do the same.

Omaeda, consummate professional, wanders by and his men are like “Hey, there’s some unconscious people here?” There’s no time to do any actual investigating, though, because Gegetsuburi and Houzukimaru are here!

What deep character things will we learn as Omaeda confronts his zanpakutou? 

Omaeda loves Gegetsuburi’s style.

Gegetsuburi tells Omaeda he is hideous and terrible.

Gegetsuburi transforms his bag of rice crackers into his weapon

Ichigo and Ikkaku crash through a wall and accidentally knock Omaeda out

Thank you, Zankautou Rebellion Filler Arc, this was tremendous. Perfect character study. ::chef’s kiss.::

Ichigo defeats Gegetsuburi in about ten seconds and they… send him off to Squad 12 to be experimented on?? Soi Fon is 100% on board with this?? Uhhhhh okay? 

Meanwhile, Ikkaku is extremely excited to fight Houzukimaru. They do the lucky dance together. I don’t think they even have a beef with each other. Why isn’t this entire arc just Ikkaku fighting Houzukimaru? They are so happy. I love this journey for them. Anyway, their fight gets interrupted and Houzukimaru gets away with the help of… Byakuya? GASP!

(Programming note: Ikkaku didn’t make it onto the chart this week because there were too many other characters. Clearly, this fight is gonna pick up again later, so I’ll add him then.)

The other subplot going on at this time is that Tobiume and Haineko are a) both way horny for Hyourinmaru and b) hate each other and call each other by a bunch of gross insults rooted in misogyny. I suppose this is meant to be funny, but it’s terrible and I hate it. 

In the next episode, they attack Ichigo in the woods (where are these woods anyway?? In the middle of the Seireitei? Is there, like, a Central Park?) and… sexually harass him? Ichigo is like, “I am 16 years and I cannot tell you enough how much I would like to be removed from this narrative.”

Fortunately Hinamori and Matsumoto show up and are like, “Buzz off, kid, we take care of our own messes.” The next half an episode is extremely painful. Haineko calls Matsumoto an old hag. Female characters in Bleach are constantly calling Matsumoto an old hag and… it’s stupid? First of all, she doesn’t actually age??? Wouldn’t this have entirely different connotations in Soul Society? Second, Matsumoto looks great and she pulls. If she is old… it doesn’t seem to be slowing her down much? Fortunately, Matsumoto seems utterly immune to this, both here and the time the Tres Bestia tried to pull this on her.

Meanwhile, Tobiume tells Hinamori that she is pathetic and makes poor life decisions and that it was painful to have to be with her through her depression and I AM SO MAD ABOUT THIS. Earlier in this arc, Hinamori talked a lot about how important Tobiume’s emotional support had been to her recovery. This is like if you showed up to therapy and your therapist was like, “Yeah, I’ve been thinking it over and I think you deserve your trauma and are not worthy of basic human love.” They couldn’t even be bothered to show Tobiume with some cognitive dissonance over this, this is TERRIBLE and YOU DESERVE BETTER, HINAMORI. Tobiume is cancelled. 

Anyway, both Matsumoto and Hinamori appear to be getting pissed off, and they start to cast some kidou, full chant and everything, which their zanpakutou dodge easily and laugh at them… because they were each aiming at each other’s zanpakutou. 

That’s right. My two queens rolled in with a plan, ignored their dumb zanpakutou’s psychological games, and tag-teamed them, no muss, no fuss. They high-fived. Hinamori gives a speech about how being old is lit, actually, because you know what you’re about and you’re better for the heartache you’ve been through. It ruled. Go get some margaritas and mani-pedis, girlfriends. You deserve it for dealing with this horseshit. This is the most feminist Bleach has ever been, and I am 100% sure it was an accident.

Ichigo leaves the forest of Toxic Performative Femininity and runs into Hyourinmaru who promptly goes “Are… you my master?” 

OH NOOOOOOOOES Hyourinmaru has forgotten the face of his master!!! I cannot emphasize enough how sad and ridiculous this is. Did Muramasa not vette his brainwashed zanpakutou at all before sending them out into the world? There is no explanation whatsoever for why Hyourinmaru has lost his memories and no one else has. Even worse, he is talking to a young man with face blindness and a bad memory and Ichigo is like “I… don’t know?” We made fun of Ichigo a bunch for not knowing what any of his friends’ powers are, because Hyourinmaru, like, so obviously belongs to Hitsugaya, but maybe Ichigo’s never seen Hitsugaya’s powers? I’ve talked before about how the filler gives us the impression that everyone hangs out and knows each other really well, but I don’t think Ichigo has ever canonically seen Hitsugaya’s powers, so that’s kinda fun.

Anyway, Hyourinmaru is very Extra. Got some rotating ice dragons, very Actual Cannibal Shia LaBeouf. Hitsugaya shows up, all “I… am your master,” except that Hyourinmaru is like, “no, you are a child.” Amazingly, this is not played for laughs. Hitsugaya asks him, very dramatically “What does your soul want?” and Hyourinmaru answers, “a…home” aaaaaaand it’s a one-way trip to flashback town, baby! We’re back in good ol’ Junrinan with Babby Toushirou, and I swear to God this happened:

There some bean-buying and meeting Matsumoto and freezing Granny and… then Hitsugaya… leaves home? Momo is nowhere in this? What does this have to do with home? Is it… because they repurposed a canon flashback that doesn’t belong here? Could be! 

It doesn’t matter. Empowered by nostalgia, Hitsugaya is able to unseal his sword (so, that’s him and Renji now who have been able to look their zanpakutou dead in the eyes and do this, good jorb, guys) they fight, Hitsugaya yells “REMEMBER YOUR HOOOOOOOOME” and Hyourinmaru remembers, they hug it out, end scene.

Oh, in other news, Muramasa has been in Hueco Mundo, killing Menos?? I’m sure absolutely nothing bad will come of this.

CHART UPDATE!