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| Ikiryō Kuragari | |
| Race | Visored |
| Birthday | January 3 |
| Age | 30 (Physical) 456 (Actual) |
| Gender | Male |
| Height | 184 cm (6'½") |
| Weight | 80 kg (176 lb.) |
| Blood Type | A- |
| Professional Status | |
|---|---|
| Affiliation | Gotei 13 |
| Profession | Shinigami |
| Position | Captain |
| Previous Position | Lieutenant |
| Division | Second Division |
| Partner | Kurokawa Tadayoshi Motoko Kuragari |
| Previous Partner | Duo Wen Tian |
| Base of Operations | Seireitei |
| Personal Status | |
| Relatives | Sadao Kuragari (Father) Motoko Kuragari (Wife) Amaya Kuragari (Daughter) |
| Education | Shin'ō Academy |
| Zanpakutō | |
| Shikai | Shi no Hōyō |
| Bankai | Sonzai no Yūgure |
| First Appearance | |
| Story Debut | Spectre of the Past: Dawn |
| Roleplay Debut | Dark War: Prelude |
"Sorry to interrupt you. I have a habit of popping-in unannounced." |
Ikiryō Kuragari (暗がり生霊, "Gloomy Wraith") is a male Visored and the Captain of the Second Division of Gotei 13. His Lieutenant is Motoko Kuragari, his wife.
Appearance[]
Kuragari is a tall half-Asian man ostensibly in his early 30s. He has a slender build and well-toned physique. His short jet black hair is straight and kept upright. In addition, he wears a permanent stubble. The colour of his eyes is an unusually light blue. The features of his face are somewhat sharp, with a noticeably pale complexion.
There is a prominent, deep scar on the left side of his face. It severs his upper lip, goes upward through the cheek, splits the eyebrow and goes through forehead to end somewhere beyond the hair line. The origin of the scar is unknown, though he has had it before the outbreak of the Dark War.
He wears a sleeveless and tight-fitting variant of the standard Shinigami uniform. His Captain's haori is also modified in the same manner.
Personality[]
Ikiryō is characterised by being a remarkably level-headed individual. No matter how dire the situation, he is usually able to maintain composure far better than many of his peers. Even in the rare instance of an emotional upheaval the lapses are most often brief and do not negatively affect his performance. Furthermore, he is not easily surprised. This ability to remain calm in the face of truly unexpected turns of events frequently allows him to act in a rational and efficient manner.
In general, Kuragari is a grim, cynical and almost callous person. He often displays his sardonic attitude through snarky remarks. Whilst he interacts rather well with most of the other Gotei 13 officers, his extremely formal politeness only emphasises his reserved demeanour. Ostensibly solemn or snide at times, he does not appear particularly amiable at first glance. The more negative aspects of his personality become more prominent when he faces an enemy. Spiteful comments and provocative behaviour are as much expression of his nature as they are a ploy to encourage the opponent at hand to commit easy to exploit mistakes.
In truth, Ikiryō is a signifcantly more friendly individual than he initially appears. Although he does not usually show this, he works as a Captain not only because of the sense of duty, but due to the genuine concern for his close ones, comrades, and the people of the Seireitei. He is on very good terms with childhood friends and fellow officers Haruka Mewokuramasu and Kurokawa Tadayoshi, with the latter being like a brother to him. During his temporary exile from the Seireitei, he has developed friendship with a fellow refugee Captain, Kaoru Shōki. Furthermore, the somewhat vitriolic relationship with his Lieutenant, Motoko Manihōrudo, has gradually evolved from strained and professional to something far more intimate, only to ultimately result in their marriage and then a daughter, Amaya Kuragari. It has been also revealed that he was on good terms with his former Captain and currently a Royal Guard member Duo Wen Tian, who used to treat him with somewhat excessive affection.
History[]
Ikiryō was born in a mid-rank noble family associated with House Mewokuramasu, one of the Four Noble Families. Since he was a single child, his father Sadao Kuragari intended him to one day become the next head of the family and take over his duties. However, Ikiryō decided to enlist to the Shinō Academy against his wishes.
Kuragari's determination and diligence were praised, but his somewhat pompous mannerisms used to be mocked by some of his peers. After extensive training and some preliminary missions, Ikiryō matured and changed significantly. Ultimately, he graduated from the Academy after full six-year period as one of the top students of his class.
Subsequently, he was promptly recruited to the Second Division due to his aptitude for Hakuda, Hohō and infiltration. When he learnt his Shikai he moved up through the ranks at a rapid pace and became a high-ranking Seated Officer within a relatively short timespan. Eventually, he was promoted to the rank of the Division's Lieutenant. Some decades later he succeeded his Captain, Duo Wen Tian, after she had been promoted to the Royal Guard.
He had kept that position since about 100 years by the time of the Dark War.
Plot[]
The Dark War Arc[]Prelude[]Ikiryō attends an emergency meeting along with the other Captains. They are briefed on the systematically aggravating situation pertaining to the repeating attacks on Seireitei conducted by organised groups of Hollows. Ikiryō expresses his surprise at the fact, but is assured by Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto that the assumptions concerning the enemy leadership are well-grounded. Once the meeting ends, Kuragari stealthily follows his childhood friend, Kurokawa Tadayoshi, who is accompanied by Captain Kaoru Shōki, but is detected by the former. Ikiryō and Kurokawa agree to meet later and part ways for the time being[1]. Soon afterward Captain Haruka Mewokuramasu, their common childhood friend, invites the two to her barracks. Mewokuramasu voices her displeasure about the loosening of their relationship. Tadayoshi's sombre demeanour draws the attention of the other Captains, and the topic of the conversation shifts to the current situation. Together, they briefly discuss the plan to assault the Hollows and express their joy over the fact they can cooperate. Tadayoshi leaves, and Kuragari follows soon afterward[2]. The Captains of the Gotei 13 assemble the next day, ready to invade Hueco Mundo. When they are being divided into small teams, Kuragari is paired with Kenpachi Kūfuku, a decision he does not like. Then, the elite task force enters the artificial Garganta[3]. Initiation[]Ikiryō immediately senses numerous groups of Menos scattered nearby the site of their arrival. As some of the Captains eagerly engage the Hollows in combat he expresses his dissatisfaction, but joins them anyway. When the exasperated Mewokuramasu prepares to blast the remaining Menos with Hadō #88, he urges the others to fall back. After the scuffle is over, he emphasises the necessity to act fast. He warns the team that he senses Reiatsu signatures of Vasto Lorde, and is subsequently forced to quickly follow Kenpachi Kūfuku toward the enemy base looming in the distance[4]. At the base of the immense white spire, the two encounter one of its Vasto Lorde guardians, Ira. Ikiryō calls Kenpachi an idiot for being reckless and playing into the enemy's hands, but the Eleventh Division Captain is not bothered and promptly attacks Ira. The two Captains engage him alternately and their initial attacks are easily deflected. Once the Hollow introduces himself and reveals the identity of his leader, Kuragari takes the lead to test him[5]. Escalation[]Ikiryō tries out a number of Kidō and Hakuda techniques supplemented with his excellent Shunpo, but Ira remains unimpressed with his assaults. As a result, Kuragari disengages him and hands over the fight to Kenpachi. The two begin battling whilst Ikiryō observes with a smirk on his face[6]. Intensification[]The fight between Kenpachi and Ira intensifies. Kuragari warns his comrade that the enemy has been getting stronger and is now far beyond the Shikai level. However, Kūfuku tells him to shut up, as he is enjoying the duel. Ikiryō is perplexed by that attitude, but does not intervene. The Vasto Lorde grows furious and releases a great amount of energy, prompting Kūfuku to counteract with a Bankai. After a while, Ikiryō approaches the Kenpachi to point out the Hollow's weakness before he proceeds onward[7]. Culmination[]Kuragari rushes through the deserted halls and stairways of La Aguja Blanca in order to confront the enemy leader, Tinieblas, as soon as possible. Growing anxious due to the magnitude of her vast Reiatsu, he ponders on the fact so much he does not notice another Vasto Lorde until he sees him. Hibris threatens the Captain, and the two exchange introductions. After some unfriendly words are spoken, they begin fighting. Kuragari attempts to kill the Hollow with a single abrupt strike of his Zanpakutō, but Hibris skilfully evades the rapid slash. Seeing this, Ikiryō commends his proficiency. Subsequently, he swiftly releases his Shikai and then Bankai outright, stating his determination to finish the battle quickly. He attacks with a couple of Zanpakutō techniques, but Hibris uses his own special ability to defend himself[8]. Kuragari pushes Hibris back, relentless, but the Vasto Lorde is able to keep up with the ingenious use of his special power. Ikiryō is wounded, but remains focussed. Even though Hibris tries to shield himself, he is significantly injured with a Shōkyo Taihō blast. Then, Kuragari mocks the latter's ability, causing him to burst in a fit of fury. He succeeds to deal several heavy blows to the Second Division Captain, but Ikiryō manages to exploit his short lapse and swiftly kills him with a Sōkotsu to the back[9]. Termination[]Some time later, Ikiryō appears just in time to protect the temporarily incapacitated Captain Tarō Kinzoku from a would-be death blow by Tinieblas. Although, Captain Mewokuramasu quickly takes over the fight with tenacity which noticeably surprises him. He then watches as she traps the Arrancar woman in her Bankai, anxious[10]. Haruka Mewokuramasu is defeated by Tinieblas's Resurrección, and Kuragari promptly catches the former when she is launched into the air. Then, he asks Tadayoshi to stall the enemy leader in order to gain some time to regroup and bring Mewokuramasu away from the fight. Ikiryō returns to the fight soon afterward and saves his friend from an incoming Cero Maremoto. Subsequently, he expresses his shock with the adversary's persistence and becomes enraged when Captain Sakamoto Risa is quickly defeated by the Arrancar[11]. Still, Captains Kenpachi Kūfuku, Kaoru Shōki, Tarō Kinzoku and Fudo Shōdo provide Kuragari and Tadayoshi with much needed support throughout the ensuing battle. Nevertheless, Tinieblas dominates them easily. In the end, thanks to the combined efforts of several worn-down Captains, Kurokawa successfully binds Tinieblas with a full-power Bakudō #90. Ikiryō uses that opportunity to repeatedly strike her with his Bankai's ultimate technique, Konzetsu. After a few hits, the Arrancar's body begins disintegrating and fades away. The exertion required to achieve that exhausts Kuragari, disactivating his Bankai and prompting him to fall to the ground, shaking. However, the mission is fully accomplished, so both he and the rest of the Captains gather to celebrate their victory quietly[12]. | |
The Spectre of the Past Arc[]Dawn[]Ikiryō attends the emergency Captain meeting organised after the unexpected arrival of a particularly dangerous Ryoka. When Kurokawa Tadayoshi joins in, Kuragari briefly explains what is the situation before Yamamoto silences the Captains. Then, he identifies the intruder as Hikari Maebure, an ancient Sōzōshin, which visibly startles Ikiryō and Haruka Mewokuramasu. The Second Division Captain is afraid his distant relation to the Ryoka's kin may entice hostility from his colleagues. However, together with Haruka they are relieved to observe no signs of this even after Kaoru Shōki comments upon their ancient heritage[13]. Despite the emergency situation, the friendly meeting Haruka has planned earlier takes place anyway. When Tadayoshi arrives delayed, Ikiryō pesters him about Captain Shōki. Nonetheless, as the host behaves in an unusually solemn manner, she draws the attention of her guests. Asked about the reason by Sakamoto Risa, Mewokuramasu reveals Hikari Maebure is in fact her great-grandfather. Alerted, Kuragari leaves the room hurriedly after telling her to strengthen the guard[14]. Morning[]The next day Ikiryō approaches the Sixth Division Barracks accompanied by his Lieutenant, Motoko Manihōrudo, and notes the presence of numerous First Division Shinigami in the area. The two talk about the recent death of Captain Katsurō Ueno which may have caused that, and Kuragari admonishes his deputy for addressing him by name. They stop to talk briefly with Lieutenant Chōjirō Sasakibe, who commands the garrison, and later enter the Barracks. Inside they encounter Third Seat Officer Daiki Ueno, grandson of the deceased Captain, and express their sympathy. Then they enter Mewokuramasu's office to meet the owner and Sakamoto within. They converse about the young officer and the difficult situation. Suddenly, Kuragari realises that why Haruka has to stay in the Barracks, Hikari Maebure may come at any time. He states that he has a bad feeling about this[15]. Some time later Ikiryō intervenes in the fight between Hikari and Captain Takeo Danko. He attempts to stab the Sōzōshin in the back with his Shikai, but a failsafe barrier placed on the latter's back foils the ambush attack. Maebure makes his irritation known and temporarily switches his focus to Kuragari. The two fight briefly, but Ikiryō is forced to retreat after barely avoiding a Nikkō Taihō beam that leaves a light wound on his arm. Then, he asks Takeo, who has been observing the short exchange of blows, about his status. Soon afterward Lieutenant Chōjirō Sasakibe and Captain Sakamoto Risa land nearby the two Captains, their Zanpakutō already released. Maebure decides to leave, and whilst Sasakibe tries to stop him, the Sōzōshin momentarily blinds everyone with a Shikai technique and disappears[16]. At noon Kuragari is present during a meeting in Mewokuramasu's office. Together with Risa, Danko and Sasakibe they discuss Hikari's supposed purpose and point out that Captain-Commander Yamamoto is another likely target. Ikiryō and Sakamoto are uneasy about this, but Chōjirō attempts to reassure them there is no need to be worried. Then, they propose a plan to lure the Ryoka into a trap. Meanwhile, Ikiryō realises that Maebure is surprisingly knowledgeable about the current status of the Seireitei despite his purpoted 2,000-years absence[17]. Noon[]The following day Kuragari comes to the House Ueno Estate, accompanied by Motoko. They talk briefly about the failure of their trap and Yamamoto's subsequent defeat at the hands of Hikari. Motoko once again addresses her Captain directly and refuses to maintain a proper tone, much to his chagrin. However, the arrival of Kurokawa interrupts them. Then, they attend the funeral ceremony of Captain Katsurō Ueno, protected by a strong Kidō barrier to ensure Hikari would not interfere[18]. Later the same day several Captains and Lieutenants gather in a garden located within the Sixth Division Barracks. They discuss a new plan to defeat Hikari Maebure. Kuragari suggests gathering all combat ready Captains in one place to challenge him, but Motoko points out that it would be difficult to lure the Sōzōshin out. Consequently, Haruka states that she knows one way to accomplish that, prompting Ikiryō to express his doubts. Nevertheless, the session is cut short as tremendous Reiatsu floods the area, swiftly causing Motoko and Kana Enodoriko to fall unconscious. Maebure appears from thin air and greets the Shinigami, but is promptly attacked by Tadayoshi and Kuragari. The ancient Sōzōshin defends himself seemingly with little effort and binds both Captains. Takeo Danko is knocked out shortly afterward, and all Ikiryō can do is listen to a conversation between Hikari and Haruka[19]. During the night Ikiryō and Kurokawa come to the Twelfth Division Barracks to ask Kaoru Shōki for help. When they tell her how dire is the situation, Shōki calls her Lieutenant, Akira Tanaka to her aide. They talk briefly about the impending "experiment", and Kuragari is anxious about the terms they use. Kaoru ignores his doubts and encourages the two Captains to follow her. In the meantime, she explains the basics of Hikari Maebure's ultimate technique, the extremely rare Sinsaeng Jeongsu transformation. Then, she reveals that she has been working on samples recovered from the spawn of Lascivia, one of the Vasto Lorde fought during the Dark War. She intends to employ the results of her research to empower the two young Captains with Hollowfication. Ikiryō is not sure whether that would be enough, but Kaoru insists that they are the best candidates. Then, Akira injects them with a sedative administered by his somewhat disturbing Shikai[20]. Zenith[]Shōki and Tanaka lead Kuragari and Tadayoshi to the Shinigami Research and Development Institute underground where a strange, cylindrical cave is located. When Kaoru reveals that it is her special training ground where time passes ten times faster than normal, Ikiryō asks how has she achieved that. Shōki explains that this is the result of her study of Dangai. Then, Akira injects Kuragari and Tadayoshi with the Hollow formula, and the latter quickly encloses both of them in Kidō barriers. The Hollowfication process begins shortly afterward. The two thrash around their cages, Hollow holes appearing in their chests and bony protrusions sprouting from their bodies. However, thanks to their inherent composure and a dose of sedatives, they are able to quickly regain control. Ikiryō remarks he feels odd right afterward. His newly acquired Hollow mask shatters, surprising him. Nonetheless, Shōki congratulates him and his friend for subjugating their Inner Hollows. Then, the two express their gratitude for the invaluable help and proceed to start their training in the especially prepared cave[21]. Three days have passed on the outside, and a full month within the cave. The Captains of Gotei 13 devise a successful trap for Hikari; Haruka lures him to the Sōkyoku Hill allegedly to talk, but actually uses a pre-cast spell to transport him far outside the Soul Society's inhabited area. There, the Captains engage him in combat. Even though they are unable to defeat him, they occupy him long enough for Ikiryō and Kurokawa to come. The two attack Maebure on arrival, Kuragari beginning with an abrupt Shunpo manoeuvre. Then, he greets him in a sarcastic manner[22]. Whereas Kuragari and Tadayoshi have their Shikai already active, Maebure has sealed his sword after incapacitating the team of Captains. He attempts to fix that, but Kurokawa summons his Hollow mask and fires a Hadō blast, preventing him from doing so. Tadayoshi sustains a barrage of Sōkatsui spells, forcing the ancient Sōzōshin to run around and stirring up a sizeable cloud of smoke. Ikiryō exploits that to ambush Hikari, who barely manages to block the strike with his blade. Kuragari, who has since summoned his own mask as well, proceeds to push the enemy back with a series of relentless melee attacks. Maebure still manages to release his Shikai, and Ikiryō reacts with Speed Clones. Hikari counters with the same techinque, but is unable to overcome the Captain's superior speed. In the end, Kuragari lands a hit, wounding the Sōzōshin. Maebure is about to retort, but is then engulfed by a Sōkatsui blast fired by Kurokawa. Angered, he momentarily blinds his two opponents with Senkō. Then, he uses this opportunity to gain some distance and activates his Sinsaeng Jeongsu. Both Captains plunge at him, but are subsequently pushed back by the explosion of tremendous Reiatsu unleashed by the transformation. They are forced to watch, and realise only after a while that they no longer sense his spiritual pressure. They take off their masks to conserve energy. Hikari encourages them to summon them again, for they will need everything they have got not to be crushed. However, the two Captains largely ignore his boasts and agree to proceed with their plan. Consequently, they release their Bankai. Maebure commends their prowess, but warns them that this is still insufficient to overpower him, particularly considering he has recently defeated six of their peers. Ikiryō retorts by saying that he and his friend are not only going to use even more power than currently, but that they are going to win exactly because Hikari has had to fight six Captains beforehand. The Sōzōshin appears irritated by the response. Then, Kurokawa begins chanting an incantation whilst Kuragari plunges at the adversary at full speed[23]. Ikiryō starts his assault with a powerful punch, but is blocked by Hikari's gleaming blade even though the impact causes a potent shockwave. As such, he follows up with Raiōken, showering the enemy with lightning-fast hits. Maebure stands his ground, but the ground itself around the two begins cracking and subsiding due to the forces exerted. One final punch launches Kuragari backward with recoil, but Maebure sways because of its strength. He tries to attack the Second Division Captain, but Tadayoshi engulfs him in an empowered Sōkatsui. The two regroup and commend each other's skills. However, they are suddenly interrupted by Hikari. The Sōzōshin attacks Ikiryō first, launching him into the air with a powerful swing of his Zanpakutō. Then, he dodges a Shakkahō launched by Kurokawa and propells him with an astonishingly potent Seki. They halt high in the air and Maebure materialises nearby, explaining that he has wanted to change the location to allow them to fight at full potential without the risk of harming their immobilised comrades. Kuragari reminds Tadayoshi that they have little time left. Then, they fire Hadō spells simultaneously and achieve direct hits. Maebure counter strikes right afterward, approaching Ikiryō with a Shunpo leap and then pressing him with an impressive display of Zanjutsu. Ikiryō is pushed back by the ruthless onslaught, and whilst Kurokawa fires Byakurai spells at Maebure, his efforts are in vain. Tadayoshi then tries to strike the adversary from behind, but his blade is stopped by some sort of invisible force field. Right afterward he becomes locked in the combat together with Ikiryō. Hikari praises their proficiency only to abruptly cease his onslaught and hit them with an elbow to the stomach and a roundhouse kick to the chin, sending them plummeting toward the ground. Kuragari comments that they need to take decisive measures and fires a fast Cero that manages to catch Maebure off-guard and vapourise the tip of his wing. Kurokawa incapacitates the opponent with Kuyō Shibari, allowing Kuragari to close the distance and strike Hikari with a powerful left hook. The Sōzōshin rotates around his axis and violently crashes into the ground. Tadayoshi promptly fires a Raikōhō at him. The two Captains regroup, but their conversation is cut short as Maebure emerges from the cloud of dust, wounded and furious[24]. Ikiryō is attacked with tremendous speed, his hightened reflex saving him from instant death. Hikari employs Senmaioroshi. Even though Kuragari is able to withstand a few seconds of the attack, he is ultimately outmatched and lacerated by the whirring blade of Maebure. Then, he is submerged and launched flying by an Aikadan blast. Kurokawa briefly fights alone, pitting his Kidō against the enemy's, though he is pushed back as well. Ikiryō returns unexpectedly, heavily wounded but still capable of fighting. He uses Kyomu no Ibara bullets to occupy Maebure as he is approaching him, fools him with Borei and then attacks with the Bunkatsu Genjitsu blade. Their swords collide violently, knocking the Second Division Captain back. Tadayoshi uses that moment of distraction to launch Hiryū Gekizoku Shinten Raihō, and Hikari barely manages to erect Hidō #7, Hikari no Yōsai, to protect himself. The two Captains gain a while to rest and talk. Kuragari once again mentions that the duration of their Hollowfication is nearing its end. Soon afterward Maebure reappears, tired and injured, yet otherwise unperturbed. He deems the two friends the strongest Shinigami he has fought since his duel with Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto, but states that the battle can end only in his victory. Then, he begins to charge his ultimate technique. Kurokawa tells Ikiryō that he is finally able to sense the adversary's Reiatsu, which is so vast and all-encompassing that has not been initially able to recognise it as such. Made aware of that Kuragari senses the spiritual pressure too, and says that it does not augur well. They decide to confront the Sōzōshin one last time, gallows humour helping them maintain determination. In the meantime, Hikari finishes the preparations of Cheonjeong: Sinseong. Tadayoshi creates a composite Sōkatsui/Senjū Kōten Taihō, whilst Ikiryō charges Cero Deshaciendo, a technique being the amalgamation of his Bankai and Hollow powers. Then, the monstrous attacks collide[25]. Kurokawa's composite spell is the first to clash with Maebure's technique, impending its advance. Ikiryō's Cero strikes it from behind, nearly forcing it inside the Sinseong, which nearly stops. However, after a few moments of a stalemate Hikari's attack begins to overpower the two launched by the Captains. Kuragari struggles to sustain his Cero, but his power is depleting rapidly and his Hollow mask starts falling apart. Seeing this, Tadayoshi decides to detonate his Kidō, and by extension all of the clashing techniques, causing a truly enormous explosion that ravages the area. The Grand Kidō Chief manages to protect himself and his friend with a Dankū, but the two emerge burnt, ragged and exhausted in the aftermath of the explosion, unable to stand straight and their Zanpakutō sealed. Maebure approaches them, bewildered, and proclaims that he is going to prevent them from achieving such a feat again. He charges another Sinseong, but the technique disperses unexpectedly as does his transformed state, leaving him in an equally injured and battle-worn state as the two Captains who have been fighting him. The Sōzōshin expresses his astonishment. Then, he is suddenly bound by a Sajō Sabaku, and Haruka Mewokuramasu appears on the battlefield from nowhere, surprising Ikiryō. She talks with her great-grandfather and his Zanpakutō spirit, Tteooleuneun Taeyang, and then proceeds to execute him by his own request. Afterward, she turns to her two friends weeping, further surprising them, and states that this not over yet. Chōjiro Sasakibe and a squad of First Division Shinigami come to the battlefield to apprehend Kuragari and Tadayoshi[26]. | |
The Chiaroscuro Arc[]The Central 46 has found out about Shōki's Hollowfication experiment. Deeming it intolerable and against the fundamental principles of the Shinigami despite the fact that Ikiryō and Kurokawa have defeated one of the greatest threats in the history of Soul Society, they sentence all three Captains involved to death. However, on Yamamoto's fervent insistence they mitigate the verdict, merely banishing them from the Seireitei. Kuragari and Tadayoshi thus spend the following decade on the outskirts of the Rukongai training, with Kaoru accompanying them and observing nature out of better alternatives. Regardless of, or possibly due to Ikiryō's dismissal from the Gotei 13, Motoko Manihōrudo keeps visiting the exiled Shinigami and the relationship with her former Captain finally develops beyond that of a superior and a subordinate's. Premonition[]Approximately ten years after the death of Hikari Maebure, Ikiryō and Tadayoshi are training within a large Kidō barrier placed outside the North Rukongai. Motoko's arrival causes the two to interrupt the session. Kuragari greets his former Lieutenant in an emotional manner. Subsequently, Manihōrudo proceeds to deliver some bad news: she informs the exiled Captains that recently there has been a massacre in the 39th West Rukongai district, roughly 10,000 Souls killed in a very violent way. Ikiryō inquires about various details concerning the incident and actions taken in its aftermath. However, their conversation is cut short when a member of Onmitsukidō appears and informs Motoko that her presence is immediately required at an emergency Captain meeting. She tells Kuragari that she has to go, to which he replies that he knows in an ostensibly indifferent manner. Then, she leaves him together with the other two banished Captains[27]. Trepidation[]With the Central 46 murdered during the Togabito invasion on the Seireitei and the many more casualties sustained during the initial attack, including three Captains and the Captain-Commander himself, Ikiryō, Kurokawa and Kaoru return to help their former comrades. The surviving officers and members of the Royal Guard assemble in the Sixth Division Barracks. Kuragari greets Satō Shingen, Grandmaster Swordsman who has recently faced off with the Togabito leader, Zetsubō Usuguraiboshi. Then, all of the Shinigami gathered listen to Katashi Hamasaki's story about the enemy commander's distant past. Once he finishes, Ayako Fukushima becomes the tentative Captain-Commander, and her first ordinance is to reinstate Ikiryō and Kurokawa to their former positions. Most of the Shinigami present depart shortly, but the Royal Guardsmen, Ayako, the formerly exiled Captains and Lieutenant Manihōrudo stay[28]. Complication[]Fukushima discusses the plan of defence with Hamasaki, Shingen and Kimiko Kōtaku. Ayumu Nakahara takes a nap, whilst Duo Wen Tian is approached by Ikiryō, who used to be her Lieutenant. He is hesitant at first, but Wen Tian greets him with great, excessive even, enthusiasm. The two then talk about what has changed in the Second Division during the 112 years since her promotion to the Royal Guard. When the topic shifts to the recent deaths of Captains Danko, Kūfuku and Shōdo, Motoko interrupts the dialogue and drags Kuragari away. She asks him about Duo Wen Tian in a manner suggesting jealousy, which completely baffles Kuragari. Then, she criticises his poor state and drags him outside the building, leaving Ikiryō unable to do anything but make a sarcastic comment[29]. Kuragari attends the funeral ceremony of all fallen Shinigami later the same day. However, the event is interrupted when a giant portal opens above the Sōkyoku Hill, signaling the impending enemy attack. Members of the Gotei 13 disperse promptly to take their positions[30]. Forces of the Shinigami engage the Togabito invaders. Tinieblas is amongst them, and her monstrous Reiatsu scares away most of the Soul Reapers until she is approached by Ikiryō and Kurokawa. The two act in a surprisingly nonchalant manner, angering the powerful Arrancar. She plunges at Tadayoshi, but is deflected with seemingly little effort, and then attacked and wounded by Kuragari. However, the two Captains become less snide once she mentions the death of Kenpachi at her hands. Ikiryō threatens her in an indirect way, pointing out that she no longer has the support of Vasto Lorde from 12 years ago. Tinieblas grows furious and fires a Cero which the two evade. When it demolishes a building, Kuragari states that they should limit the collateral damage this time. The ostensibly casual talk further infuriates the Arrancar woman, who unleashes a vast amount of spiritual pressure. A barrage of Cero forces the two Captains to dodge. Kurokawa suggests to summon the Hollow masks, and Ikiryō agrees. Tinieblas is dumbfounded, but reacts in her usual fashion, charging at the two Visoreds. The fighters clash with great ferocity[31]. Aggravation[]The powerful Arrancar presses the Captains with a relentless onslaught that demolishes many buildings in the vicinity. However, thanks to the combination of their Shikai and Hollow masks, the two stand their ground with some effort. Kurokawa continues to insult Tinieblas and her deceased allies, further infuriating her, and Ikiryō scolds him for overdoing this. The Arrancar plunges at the latter and engages him in vicious close combat. Tadayoshi fires an Ōkasen to separate them, and Kuragari uses that opportunity to deliver a fast punch to the enemy's solar plexus, sending her crashing into a nearby building. He then states that it is time to get serious, and attacks with a Cero. Tinieblas is hit, but quickly counters with her own Gran Rey Cero. Ikiryō dodges the technique itself but not the resultant enormous explosion, and reappears trailed by smoke after his Shunpo manoeuvre. Then, he moves beside his friend and asks him to prepare something nasty whilst he is occupying the adversary. Subsequently, Kuragari takes off his Hollow mask and activates Bankai. Once finished, he inquires whether Tadayoshi could provide an opener, to which the Grand Kidō Chief reacts by launching a hasty Senjū Kōten Taihō at the Arrancar. Ikiryō rushes forward soon after the detonation while Kurokawa activates Bankai as well. It turns out that Tinieblas has been able to minimise the damage done by the high level Hadō, and as such swiftly engages Kuragari. The two are equally matched for a while, yet the woman's ferocity soon allows her to push Ikiryō back. In the meantime, Tadayoshi completes his Cero no Yomi. When he notices that, Kuragari attacks the Arrancar, forcing her to expose herself to his friend's technique. The two succeed, and Kurokawa slashes Tinieblas with Izanagi no Hanketsu. Nevertheless, he is surprised with a very abrupt retaliation. His attack has managed to wound her and cut off her left forearm, but she is far from being dead yet. Determined as ever, Tinieblas finally unleashes her full might, and the two Captains are unable to stop her as she activates Resurrección. Then, she swats them away with her powerful tentacles and discharges a storm of Balas[32]. Retribution[]The ferocious combat continues. The Resurrección proves to be extremely difficult to handle for the two Captains, who slowly but steadily lose ground. Kuragari suggests using a strategy to defeat Tinieblas, since a head-on approach is bound to be ineffective. Kurokawa offers to hold the enemy off for a while in order to let Kuragari charge his ultimate technique. The two agree on the course of action and resume the fight. Even though Tadayoshi is wounded in the process, Ikiryō succeeds to prepare Cero Deshaciendo. Still, the Arrancar counters with her own Cero Oscuras, and the beam techniques clash. Kuragari overpowers the enemy, and Kurokawa swiftly blasts her with Sōren Sōkatsui mere moments after his friend's attack has taken effect. Tinieblas emerges from the devastation heavily injured, but very much alive. Her volatile wrath shifts to tranquil fury, and she assaults the two all the while accusing Shinigami of being nothing more than self-righteous persecutors. Kuragari very nearly lands a blow, in part thanks to Tadayoshi's support, but Tinieblas repels him and blasts the latter. Then, she unleashes the terrifying Cero Maremoto, prompting the Grand Kidō Chief to summon a complex barrier. Eventually, the techniques cancel each other out, and Ikiryō quickly moves in to exploit the opportunity to strike the Arrancar woman. He hits her with Konzetsu, inflicting a severe wound to her torso, but the exertion takes its toll on him and his Hollow mask falls apart. Eerily calm, Tinieblas asks why Shinigami deem Hollows "monsters" if all they do is kill them, to which Kuragari retorts by saying that killing the Shinigami will not bring her lost comrades back. Her most recent wound fails to regenerate and actually aggravates as her body begins to disintegrate. Still, she claims that she simply cannot stand the thought of the murderers of her friends being alive, and lashes out one last time. She overwhelms Kuragari with her numerous tentacles, but a quick intervention from Tadayoshi throws her off balance. Thus, Ikiryō leaps at her and plunges Bunkatsu Genjitsu right through her chest. Tinieblas succumbs to the killing blow, and as her body is dissipating, she happily announces that she is free. Kuragari and Tadayoshi seal their Zanpakutō, and the former states that for some reason he does not feel any satisfaction from this victory[33]. Conclusion[]Some time later, Ikiryō and Kurokawa appear at the foot of the Sōkyoku Hill. They are aware that Zetsubō Usuguraiboshi is preparing a portal to Hell on its top, and intend to stop him despite their exhaustion from the previous fight. Kuragari expresses his surprise that no one else is here to help them, and Tadayoshi points out that it may be related to the amount of Sinners guarding the place, hiding in the hill's shadow. The two are dismayed at the prospect of fighting them on the way to Usuguraiboshi. Then, Haruka Mewokuramasu and Sakamoto Risa arrive at the site unexpectedly and engage the army of Togabito with their Bankais. Right afterward the Visoreds are approached by Captain Retsu Unohana, who brings along Satō Shingen, who is being healed within her Shikai. She treats their wounds and replenishes some of their energy, but is unable to restore all of it due its incredible amount. Unohana insists that the two young Captains should be the ones to face Zetsubō, with the help of partially healed Shingen, of course. Kuragari is convinced by her poetic argumentation and together with the other two they climb atop the Sōkyoku Hill. Once at the summit, they confront the powerful Togabito. After a short conversation Ikiryō attacks abruptly in an attempt to finish things quickly. However, Usuguraiboshi deflects his sudden strike and wounds him. All three Shinigami proceed to charge at him, but the Togabito activates Bankai, Mugen Kūgeki, and plunges them in absolute darkness[34]. Ikiryō spends some time suspended in the black void. After a while he begins to hear voices from his childhood which insult him repeatedly. He maintains his composure and dares the voices to confront him, causing them to cease. Then he hears footsteps, but the warped acustics of the mysterious place do not allow him to locate the source. White light manifests above his head unexpectedly and momentarily blinds him. When he regains his sight he spots a disturbing, dessicated corpse walking toward him. Kuragari inquires about its identity and assumes a defensive stance. The ghoul attacks and he impales it with the armoured gauntlet of his Shikai. Only then does the entity speak, and Ikiryō realises he has struck his own Lieutenant, Motoko Manihōrudo. He holds her and repeats a few times that this cannot be real. Something approaches him from behind, so he turns around rapidly and strikes at the entity's throat. Then, he sees Haruka Mewokuramasu falling to the ground. The Captain screams and casts the body of his Lieuenant away, only to be drowned in impenetrable darkness again. Time passes, and he opens his eyes only to notice that his body does not seem to respond to his thoughts and moves on its own instead. Kurokawa materialises out of the black and states that this has to stop. Kuragari cannot respond. His body leaps at the Grand Kidō Chief and engages him in intense close combat. Tadayoshi manages to get past the flurry of strikes, but his blade simply phases through his friend's arm that subsequently rises and plunges the talons of the Shikai into Kurokawa's face. A yell of disbelief resounds across Ikiryō's mind. He is consumed by darkness yet again. Tormented and infuriated, he asks where is Usuguraiboshi. Unable to move his arms he struggles with invisible constraints, aggravating his fury. He starts screaming again, but the shout is cut short when something emerges from his throat[35]. Kuragari falls to his knees and spits blood at the immaculate black ground. His Inner Hollow has spawned from the substance that escaped through his throat. Ikiryō seethes that he has already dealt with it, but the Hollow bluntly disagrees. Then, it proceeds to identify itself as the darkness and hatred suppressed deep within Kuragari's psyche given form and will of its own. The Inner Hollow says that it wants to escape from its prison and overcome the Captain. Ikiryō stands up and almost regains his composure. However, he becomes enraged when the Hollow threatens his close ones and shows him the head of Motoko held in his hand. Kuragari plunges at the Hollow and scratches his cheek. Afterward, the two begin fighting. The original initially holds the upper hand, but the doppelgänger quickly overpowers him. Both parts of the same being employ Hakuda, Shunpo and Zanpakutō techniques against one another, the evil part consistently coming out on top. Ikiryō resorts to release his Bankai, and the Inner Hollow promptly follows suit. Furious, the original attacks with an animalistic roar[36]. The battle continues. Kuragari fights viciously, although the extra pair of arms grown by the Inner Hollow is sufficient to force him to defend himself most of the time. The doppelgänger lands several strong blows. Then, Ikiryō uses Bōrei, so that the Hollow phases through him, and the Captain turns around rapidly to blast him with an Ōkasen. The attack is successful, yet the Hollow evades the powerful punch that has been supposed to pin it to the ground right afterward. Shortly, Kuragari finds himself overwhelmed again. He tries to think of a plan, but has to cancel out a Cero beam with his own Shōkyo Taihō. The Inner Hollow insults his host and starts pressing him with a relentless onslaught. Meanwhile, Kuragari hears a mysterious voice in his head. Only after a while he recognises Shi no Hōyō, his Zanpakutō spirit, who attempts to help him in spite of her irritation. She advises him to ignore the visions and focus. Ikiryō thanks her and does just that. The doppelgänger scores a direct hit with a rapid Ikkotsu, but the technique has no effect on the Captain. Subsequently, Kuragari pummels him with a series of powerful punches and sends him flying with a roundhouse kick. He states that while he does not really care if he wins, he will never let anyone hurt his close ones. The Inner Hollow gets up and attacks, but Kuragari literally punches him in two. Defeated, the doppelgänger claims that he will forever stay a part of Ikiryō, to which the Captain responds that he will be always ready to put him down. The Hollow dissolves into a black liquid. Then, Kuragari falls into a dark abyss[37]. He is disturbed by the feeling of falling down, but remains calm. Suddenly, he realises that he is standing on firm ground. The area he finds himself in is vast and almost featureless, with worn pavement beneath his feet and a red sky above. Tadayoshi and Shingen appear nearby, much to his delight. The Shinigami make sure they are the real thing and converse briefly. While all of them have overcome their respective nightmares, the fight is not finished yet. A little girl materialises out of thin air, making them slightly anxious. Tadayoshi asks the others about their opinion and Ikiryō, whose Bankai is still active, steps forward to question the mysterious child. She giggles and introduces herself as Mugen Kūgeki. As she takes off the hood concealing her face to reveal her unsettling features, Kurokawa realises that she is Zetsubō's Zanpakutō spirit. She proceeds to act in a chillingly carefree manner and says things which imply she is able to read the thoughts of the Shinigami. Her antics are stopped by tremors, which prompt her to state that Usuguraiboshi is furious. When Ikiryō grumbles, the pavement begins cracking and Mugen Kūgeki runs away. The colourful nebula upon the alien sky swirls madly. Soon, a black hole opens in the middle of the vortex whilst dust rises from the ground. A deafening scream resounds across the entire area. Something crashes not far from the three Shinigami with terrible force that causes a sizeable explosion. The Captains and Royal Guardsman pull themselves together in the aftermath. Once they attempt to determine what has crashed nearby, torrents of electrified amethyst Reiatsu surge through the air and dust, pebbles and stones start levitating. A potent shockwave sweeps across their surroundings[38]. Usuguraiboshi stands in the crater, the right half of his body becoming shadowy and wraith-like. With booming voice he utters a single word, "suffer", and attacks the Shinigami with a set of black tendrils. Kuragari moves in to intercept them and counters with Bunkatsu Genjitsu. However, he merely blocks them rather than cutting them, and Zetsubō leaps at him with inhuman ferocity. Satō intervenes with a powerful wave attack of his Shikai, although the enemy evades it by receding out of existence. Suddenly, all three Shinigami are swept with a swing of black tendrils from a side. The attack propels them high into the air, right into the amassment of floating rocks and debris. Kuragari lands on one of the stones and tries to spot the Togabito. Zetsubō ambushes and assaults Tadayoshi, who is repeatedly pushed back even though he activates Shikai and summons his Hollow mask in short order. Thankfully, Ikiryō interrupts the enemy leader with an abrupt punch to the face from a side. Still, Usuguraiboshi recovers and retaliates quickly. The two fight for a short while, until Zetsubō surprises Kuragari with an attack from behind and then targets Shingen. His strike is foiled by Tadayoshi, who then fends him off temporarily. Satō activates Bankai in a spectacular fashion, using it to illuminate a large area around the Shinigami, and swiftly attacks Usuguraiboshi. However, he is impeded by dense, liquid-like darkness that paralyses his body and seals him within pitch blackness. Usuguraiboshi states gravely that this is his world and his pain, crushing the Royal Guardsman in the meantime. A quick intervention from Ikiryō forces the Togabito to stop and retreat. Thunderous noise alerts the three Shinigami. They look down to witness the fortress summoned by Shingen's Bankai crumble and collapse, sucked into a vortex not unlike the one above them. The rocks and dust suspended in the air begin swirling madly. Usuguraiboshi yells at his opponents and attacks, his form now barely resembling humanoid being. His abrupt assault sends Kuragari plummetting into the storm of rocks, with Tadayoshi and Shingen following suit shortly afterward. Before they are ultimately overcome by the insane Togabito, Satō employs his Bankai powers and Sentan Hakuja to miraculously evacuate himself and the two young Captains out of Zetsubō's hellish Inner World. They reappear back at the Sōkyoku Hill's summit. Liquid darkness leaks out of Usuguraiboshi's twitching body, enveloping it. In the meantime, the reality itself is shattering as well, gleaming cracks and storms of energy raging upon the clouded sky. Ikiryō at last summons his Hollow mask, which seemingly draws Usuguraiboshi's attention, since he attacks with his shadowy tentacles. The Shinigami dodge and resume fighting. Kuragari charges at the enemy. With the use of Bōrei he phases through his whipping tendrils and hits him with a potent left hook to the now exposed face. Usuguraiboshi is stunned for a moment, but retaliates quickly with great force. Fortunately, Tadayoshi moves in to help his friend. Ikiryō uses the opportunity to strike Zetsubō with a Cero from behind, but the attack is blocked. Numerous appendages shot toward him, forcing him to retreat with a Shunpo leap. Kurokawa briefly engages the enemy, letting Satō complete his preparations. Then, the Royal Guardsman commands his younger comrades to fire at the golden crescents he has set up with his Zanpakutō. The two react accordingly, and a tremendous explosion engulfs Usuguraiboshi. In spite of the devastation the joint attack has brought, the Togabito leader somehow manages to withstand the damage and attacks once more. Shingen blocks with a Dankū, so Zetsubō plunges at the Shinigami with inhuman viciousness. All of a sudden, he is stopped by a number of rusty chains. A mysterious Yōkai binds him and begins pulling him upward into a portal leading straight to Hell. At last defeated, Zetsubō states that whilst he might be considered a monster, it is the society which creates its own monsters. Ultimately, he is brought inside the gate and vanishes, the two Captains and Royal Guardsman standing there and observing silently in shock[39]. Three days later Ikiryō is present at a meeting arranged by Ayako Fukushima, together with Kurokawa and the entire Royal Guard. When Fukushima receives news from Central 46 that her position as the new Captain-Commander is official, she uses that newly reinforced power to officialy reinstate Kuragari and Tadayoshi to their old positions. They express their gratitude in perfect unison. The meeting comes to a close, and the two friends leave the room. Ikiryō says that he cannot believe the ordeal is finally over, only for Tadayoshi to humorously reply by stating that it is never going to be "over". The two converse in a cheerful, if slightly cynical manner until Duo Wen Tian interrupts them. She proposes to organise a party to celebrate their victory over the Togabito invaders. The Captains and Royal Guardsman eventually all agree with the idea. Kuragari reveals that it is going to be a good opportunity to talk with Motoko Manihōrudo about something important. Then, the group leaves the First Division Barracks and walks the demolished alleys of the Seireitei[40]. | |
Powers and Abilities[]
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Expert Swordsman: Swordsmanship is one of the most fundamental skills of a Shinigami and a degree of proficiency is required for every high-ranking officer of the Gotei 13. As such, Ikiryō has honed his skill to become a highly competent sword-fighter. He specialises in kōseidō, a dynamic, ferocious form which emphasises fast-paced offence but sacrifices proper defence. The form is highly suitable for a nimble combatant who prefers to overwhelm the opponent with rapid manoeuvres and relentless strikes rather than engage in a lengthy exchange of blows. In addition, he has learnt the basics of kyūhadō, a style which employs Hohō to further enhance the swiftness of Ikiryō's movements during a sword fight. All in all, whilst he is fairly adept, due to his focus on Hakuda Kuragari has neglected appropriate training of Zanjutsu during the latter period of his career as a Shinigami. Consequently, his skill in this particular field remains more like that of a competent Lieutenant rather than what would be expected of a Captain.
Advanced Hakuda Master: Kuragari's imposing aptitude for close combat was noted early during his time in the Shin'ō Academy. As such, he was able to focus upon the development of this skill throughout his entire career as a Shinigami. After well over 300 years of arduous training and meditation he has been able to achieve exceptional prowess. At present he is presumably second only to Duo Wen Tian of the Royal Guard, his former Captain under whose tutelage he used to train for a period of time as her direct subordinate. Hakuda is a sophisticated martial art and Ikiryō adheres to all of its core tenets. Consequently, whenever he engages in combat his ability to overcome the foe is far more complex than a simple combination of physical strength, agility and skill. As an Advanced Master he actively deploys his resolve and spiritual power to drastically increase his performance. Thus, it is not merely his body but his entire existence that becomes a veritable weapon. Every move he performs is extremely swift and conscious. There are no superfluous motions nor energy wasted. Whilst in the middle of combat he turns into a nigh-unstoppable physical force that may not as much crush those who dare stand in its way but overcome powerful displays of Kidō or change the landscape with a single simple motion.
Advanced Hohō Master: Whilst high-speed movement techniques are beneficial to any proficient combatant they are doubly so for someone who specialises in melee. The ability to outpace and chase down a fleeing enemy is a vital. Even though ostensibly a fairly simple supplementary skill, Hohō offers numerous advantages. Thanks to his outstanding agility Ikiryō is capable of outmanoeuvring average Captain-class enemies with little to no effort. This allows him to close distance between him and a ranged opponent or anticipate and intercept them on the move. Futhermore, he might employ his excellent nimbleness to evade enemy techniques, whether multiple or point-blank ones with equal ease. Some of the most advanced techniques let him perform feats impressive even for a high-level spiritual combatant. This includes confusing the adversary with a number of afterimage clones or the ability to execute multilayered manoeuvres within an instant. In the end, Kuragari is one of the most swift Shinigami in the entire Soul Society.
Kidō Expert: This abstract form of combat offers an array of offensive, defensive and supporting techniques. In his quest to develop a comprehensive fighting style Kuragari has studied the art of Kidō well beyond the minimum requirement imposed by the Shin'ō Academy. For someone who focuses upon a close-contact approach to combat the ability to maintain presence at range is invaluable. Ikiryō may effectively employ mid-level spells in the heat of battle to intercept an escaping enemy or defend from a strong technique. Thanks to his masterful Reiatsu control he might quickly cast complete techniques and skip incantations without a significant detriment to their capacity. As a result, Kidō serves as a useful supplement to his main abilities. | |
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Monstrous Strength: Because of the importance of unarmed combat in his profession, Kuragari has trained his physical strength enough to surpass an average level by far. When used in conjuction with his Reiatsu, he may kill an opponent with a single punch[4]. His strength is considerably augmented when donning the Hollow mask[23]. Formidable Durability: Furthermore, he has toughened his body in order to be able to withstand the substantial stress and damage sustained during intense close combat. Thus, he may withstand even relatively strong attacks in the rare event he is hit with the hindrance to his performance being reduced to marginal. Enormous Endurance: Ikiryō boasts a substantial amount of stamina. He has strenuously trained to improve his staying power after achieving Hollowfication, which is significantly taxing on his body. As a result, he may keep up fighting at a high performance for extended periods of time and weather considerable damage with few signs of fatigue. High Intellect: He is a very perceptive and vigilant person. As such, coupled with his above-average intellect, he is capable of quickly analysing the opponent's techniques[6][7] and reacting accordingly depending on the situation at a moment's notice[10][11]. Whilst not a tactical genius, he is a clever combatant who does not easily fall for tricks and might come up with some of his own. Enhanced Spiritual Awareness: Ikiryō boasts an outstandingly acute spiritual sense which allows him to detect the approximate location, nature and Reiatsu output of other spiritual entities. This ability is a very useful asset that lets him discover hidden enemies, follow their movements or anticipate an ambush, amongst many others. Immense Spiritual Power: Kuragari has a tremendous amount of spiritual energy at his disposal. As a Visored, his natural Reiryoku is supplemented by his Hollow powers. In fact, when Hollowfied the magnitude of his spiritual power approaches that of a Royal Guardsman. Normally of indigo colour, his Reiatsu becomes almost black and "cold" whilst in Bankai. It has some properties of shadow and darkness.
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Shi no Hōyō (死の抱擁, "Embrace of Death"): When sealed, the Zanpakutō resembles a wakizashi which has a hollowed, circular tsuba with a spiral design inside, and a dark purple hilt. He wears the dark purple scabbard on his right hip due to the fact he is left-handed.
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Hollow Mask: Ikiryō's Hollow mask resembles a "grinning skull" with sharp teeth and indigo spirals over its eye sockets. When donning it, his sclerae become black and his irides turn purple.
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Statistics
| Offence |
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100/100 | |||
| Defence |
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80/100 | |||
| Mobility |
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100/100 | |||
| Kidō/Reiatsu |
|
70/100 | |||
| Intelligence |
|
90/100 | |||
| Strength |
|
100/100 | |||
| Total |
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540/600 |
Trivia[]
- His name means roughly "Gloomy Wraith". It sounds similar to Ichigo Kurosaki, but this is a pure coincidence.
- His Bankai theme is Bleach OST - Enemy Unseen (Violin). When teaming up with his best friend, Kurokawa Tadayoshi, their shared battle theme is HarmoNIZE from Soul Eater OST.
- Zanpakutō abilities of this incarnation of the character have been altered in order to follow only the theme of "nothingness", without mixing it with "darkness".
- In Japanese, he would refer to himself with 私 (watashi), a gender-neutral, polite pronoun which is normally used in formal contexts. However, in informal and casual situations it is perceived as being effeminate, one of the in-universe reasons some peers used to mock him back in the Shinō Academy.
Appearances[]
Bleach: Dark and Light[]
The Dark War Arc[]
- Dark War: Prelude
- Dark War: Initiation
- Dark War: Escalation
- Dark War: Intensification
- Dark War: Culmination
- Dark War: Termination
The Spectre of the Past Arc[]
- Spectre of the Past: Dawn
- Spectre of the Past: Morning
- Spectre of the Past: Noon
- Spectre of the Past: Zenith
The Chiaroscuro Arc[]
- Chiaroscuro: Premonition
- Chiaroscuro: Trepidation
- Chiaroscuro: Complication
- Chiaroscuro: Aggravation
- Chiaroscuro: Retribution
- Chiaroscuro: Conclusion
Battles[]
| Participants | Chapter(s) | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Gotei 13 Captains vs. Menos | Dark War: Initiation | Win |
| Ikiryō Kuragari vs. Ira | Dark War: Initiation | Inconclusive |
| Ikiryō Kuragari vs. Hibris | Dark War: Culmination | Win |
| Gotei 13 Captains vs. Tinieblas | Dark War: Termination | Win |
| Ikiryō Kuragari vs. Hikari Maebure | Spectre of the Past: Morning | Inconclusive |
| Ikiryō Kuragari, Takeo Danko & Kurokawa Tadayoshi vs. Hikari Maebure | Spectre of the Past: Noon | Loss |
| Ikiryō Kuragari & Kurokawa Tadayoshi vs. Hikari Maebure | Spectre of the Past: Zenith | Draw |
| Ikiryō Kuragari & Kurokawa Tadayoshi vs. Tinieblas | Chiaroscuro: Complication | Win |
| Ikiryō Kuragari, Kurokawa Tadayoshi & Satō Shingen vs. Zetsubō Usuguraiboshi | Chiaroscuro: Conclusion | Win |
References[]
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