Affinity #5 - The Sons of Flame (Ukitake & Kyoraku)

The two duel-wielding captains that Captain Yamamoto, former 1st division Captain, admired as if they were his own sons. One is a womanizer and the other is sick, but in battle, they are incomparable. Together, they are two of the strongest Captains in the Soul Society, even surpassing the newer generation. It's no question that when Captain Yamamoto started the Academy, these two were the first captains and thus, their experience as captains is beyond excellence. They are both efficient in using their Zanpaktou, Shunpo, and being able to withstand more than usual for Captain standards. Even Coyote Starrk (1st Espada) commented that if the 8th Division Captain is strong, is he stronger than Hitsugaya Toshiro, the 10th Division Captain? Perhaps in a few 100 years Kyoraku explains, meaning that despite his power, it would take 100 years or more for prodigal Captain Toshiro Hitsugaya to best him. Jushiro is always sick in his barracks, but that doesn't stop him from upholding his duties as a Captain. During the Rescue Arc, these two would go through the trouble of stopping the execution, helping out Ichigo, and even engaged in battle with Captain Yamamoto, their teacher, mentor, master, and the strongest Captain of the Soul Society (being the one that created the Gotei 13). Their camaraderie as captains is best simplified like this - they're brothers who have each other's backs. Both powerful, calm, and having each other's backs, Shunsui Kyoraku & Jushiro Ukitake are the strongest Captain duo in the Gotei 13. Hope you enjoyed this week's Affinity and look forward between Wednesday-Friday the next Recollection. Until then, you all stay classy

Tenchi Masaki vs. Ichigo Kurosaki (Family Lineage)

VS.

Though two completely different series, I will personally admit Bleach & Tenchi Muyo are my favorite Animes of all time. Now that's a pretty bold statement because you all could think of 10 or more great Animes that are better, grander, and spectacular that these two. Cowboy Bebop, Trigun, FLCL, and others are other animes I'm fond of, but Bleach & Tenchi Muyo have had a place in my heart from the moment I started watching it. Bleach, when it premiered on Adult Swim, became my personal favorite Anime just from the storyline, characters, setting, and of course their sick ass swords. Same can be said about Tenchi Muyo - the characters, the harem, and the overall shenanigans just made the show for me. I am unfamiliar with reading Tenchi Muyo, but I am fond of the multiple interpretations of Tenchi Muyo with Universe, GXP and Ova 3 being my favorite (In Tokyo I wasn't fond of and I have yet to see the new spinoff after GXP). Bleach you all know how it goes - read and watched. So it's only natural I compare the two protagonists of my favorite Animes because they do share some qualities befitting of the hero. 

a) Both are kind, strong, and helpful/Godlike powers

b) Both affiliated with the Supernatural

c) Both wield swords

d) Both have pasts that'll define them

e) Both have parent(s) affiliated with Supernatural prior to series

f) Both have women crushing on them (Orihime/Ryoka + Ayeka + Sasami + Mihoshi)

So this battle will be interesting because despite these two being my all time favorite fictional characters in an Anime. I will discuss their backstories, their family history, and judge their battles (not all, but some). I will NOT discuss in length their powers because that could take days. Let's begin:

Backstories

Ichigo's father is a Shinigami and deceased mother was a Quincy. Ichigo, being a hybrid child, loved his mother dearly and upon seeing her murder, Ichigo's perception of life changed. His cutesy, smiley, and positive outlook on life is now gone and it would be years later before "a certain Shinigami" brings him out of the darkness and into a world where Ichigo is the key to protecting the bridge between the human world and the Soul Society. Ichigo, aside from the tragic loss of his beloved mother, is a normal high-school boy going to Karakura High School with friends. So everything is normal and abnormal at the same time, something Ichigo has accustomed to as he encounters Shinigami, discovers more about his past, and learns the truth behind the murder of his own mother.

Tenchi's character is a bit complex since there are different interpretations of his story told (Universe and the original are completely different). On one side, Tenchi's mother died from an illness in one arc and the other, the mother was fatally wounded by the Lighthawk Wings (Achika's/Tenchi's power). Tenchi is a normal boy unaware that his own grandfather is affiliated with a royal family from outer space, making Tenchi himself royalty to the throne of Jurai. Tenchi, living with various women he met by fate in relation to his position to the Jurai throne, is comically day by day going about with the shenanigans that ensue. So despite his mother's passing, he comes to accept his newfound family lineage and does whatever he can to ensure the protection of his own home as well as preserve peace in his life using the powers that resurfaced upon Tenchi's birth right. 

Family History

Ichigo, being a hybrid child, is the son of Shinigami Isshin Kurosaki (previously Isshin Shiba) and Masaki Kurosaki, a Quincy. Ichigo has some times to the Shiba clan, but it's unclear on what specifically. Ichigo has two younger sisters, Karin and Yuzu. Karin is aware of Ichigo's involvement with Shinigami and Yuzu has some sense of the supernatural occurring around them. 

Tenchi is all over the place on this one. Tenchi has his father, Nobuyuki, and his grandfather, Katsuhito, is a heir of the Jurai royal throne leaving a large family lineage for Tenchi. Tenchi's mother in two different arcs are Achika (Universe & Kiyone (Ova) and Tenchi, in a nutshell, has buncha relatives with the title great-great-great (despite the fact that all Tenchi's family hides their age and appears youthful). 

Battles (Overlook)

Ichigo has had his fair share of wins and losses. His first major loss was against Renji & Byakuya where he couldn't name his own Zanpaktou and was weak against Captain-level Shinigami and one of his many victories was his rematch against Renji (thanks to Urahara training), defeating Kenpachi ("Zangetsu's help), Byakuya (Bankai), Grimmjow (Visored Mask), and doing much damage to Aizen in his final form (Becoming "Zangetsu"). Ichigo's power has grown - earning a new form for his Zanpaktou, gaining a new Bankai, having a fullbring, visored mask, and is a Quincy apparently. Ichigo recently discovered that he has Quincy blood and has a new Zangetsu form, becoming more badass than before. 

Tenchi has battled Kagato, Dr. Clay, and Z and has developed and matured in his usage of the sword his grandfather passed to him that represents Jurai. His lighthawk wing form is a godly power that manifests itself into sword, clothing, and shield. Because of this, his power is Godlike and surpasses the expectations of Washu, Tsunami, & Tokimi, the creators of the Universe. Tenchi, in Ova 3, was sorta on par with Z, but had to die in order for everything to go back to place resulting in Tenchi not having lighthawk wings, the very manifestation of power that defines Tenchi's badassery. 

Verdict: Despite Tenchi's harem and Godlike powers, he has little to offer because he is content with his life + Tenchi Muyo is more comedy-romance based than Bleach. Ichigo has more to prove and as such, his mother's death defines who he is and what he'll eventually become as he sets off to destroy the Vandenreich. Tenchi will always be strong in his own right, but Ichigo continues to grow stronger. They both have Godlike powers, but at the end of the day - Ichigo is the better hero.

So who do you think won? I do apologize for not elaborating much on Tenchi, this is all from memory. I've been growing more fond of Bleach, but Tenchi was back in the day (doesn't excuse the fact that Tenchi is my 2nd favorite anime of all time). Vote: http://poll.pollcode.com/wl86z 

Until then, you all stay classy now. 

Throwback #12 - Cool vs. Calm (Chad vs. Shunsui)

Remember this fight? In the rescue arc, Chad's first and I believe 2nd opponent was Captain of the 8th Division, Captain Shunsui Kyoraku. Chad easily defeated 3rd seat Tatsufusa Enoji, but Kyoraku was worlds apart from Chad. Despite being a human, Kyoraku was impressed with Chad's newfound abilities and offered that he leave before anything gets serious. However, Chad's obligation to Ichigo's cause is what fueled Chad to keep on fighting. It didn't take very long for the Captain to realize Chad's refusal to comply and so they fought. Chad, using his powers against a Shinigami for the first time, was unaware of how strong a Captain-level Shinigami was and as a result, was gravely wounded and sent to a holding cell. Kyoraku suspects that Chad could've been one of the Ryoka responsible for Aizen's murder, but he highly doubts that someone of Chad's level could possibly be the one, there had to be others. So Kyoraku, wanting to settle things peacefully, defeated Chad without much of a sweat. Though Nanao, Shunsui's lieutenant, wanted to finish Chad off, the Captain insists that he be sent to a holding cell, wanting to prevent any more bloodshed. Kyoraku slashes Chad's across the chest with his twin blades and Chad, dashing towards Shunsui with his fist charging up, reminiscing about his promise to Ichigo about having his back. Here are some other photos of their fight:

Until then, you all stay classy now. Look forward for tomorrow's Fight Night. Photos courtesy of http://bleach.wikia.com/wiki/Bleach_Wiki (I do apologize for giving wrong URL for the past couple posts, minor mistake)

Death God's Bebop (Track #4) - Life is like a boat + Recollection #4 Pt 2 (Episode 8)

The first Bleach ending, in my personal opinion, is beautifully done. The imagery, the words, and the voice - it reminds me how much I love Bleach. If you listen to the whole song, part of the words are in English and the other in Japanese. One of the verses in the song went like this:

And every time I see your face, 
The oceans heave up to my heart
You make me wanna strain at the oars,
And soon I can see the shore

Such a peaceful romantic song that entails connections, bonds, and promises. The red ribbon represents Rukia's connection to Ichigo and the human world and as soon as she lets go, she returns back to reality - the boat whisking her away. Life in a sense is a boat, it whisks us away in multiple paths that we can't clearly see. Those paths are made up memories that we foster in our hands, much like a ribbon. That ribbon is the guide (our paddle) and the boat is our transportation. The ribbon and boat forge memories that focus on lighting a path towards tomorrow. And the ribbon grows by seconds, creating a transparent reality to which we will soon come to realize once we get there. The ribbon is something we can never forget because it defines our journey from childhood to old age. Don't let go of the ribbon because though at times its hard to cling onto, it sings to us while the boat whisks us wherever the ribbon so desires. Ichigo's smile and his companions become a reminder of Rukia's involvement with Shinigami and Human, a boundary that isn't meant to be. However, Rukia's ribbon reminds her that she is happy, but at the same time - it's hard to cling onto that ribbon. In a nutshell, Ichigo changed Rukia and Rukia changed Ichigo. This is well done - the words are beautiful, the ribbon and boat models are ingenious, and the development of these characters' relationships is just phenomenal. This will always be one of my top very Bleach endings (I will make a list later on).

June 17, Memories in the Rain: Ichigo's character is complex. At times you know he's hiding something and other times he seems perfectly content with how things are. However, the moment that changed Ichigo is the day of his mother's death at the hands of a hollow. June 17, Ichigo never attends class and as such, only a few know of Ichigo's past (Tatsuki notably). Ichigo and his family visit their mother's grave, her memory still lives on in the Kurosaki family. Orihime, Tatsuki's best friend and Ichigo's crush, learns of Ichigo's past and the murder of Masaki Kurosaki is what would define Ichigo and change him for the worst. He was once a happy-go-lucky kid and whenever his mother was by his side, things were always so peaceful. The day of her death marked the end of Ichigo's Halcyon days. At her death, Ichigo refused to cry, clinging onto the idea that it was a sign of weakness. However, Ichigo's family reassures him that it's okay to cry at times like these to honor not only their mother, but to be one with the family - a memory that Ichigo will always remember and a reminder of who Ichigo is. Tatsuki went on to add that Ichigo became distant, not being the same person who smiled whenever his mother appeared. On the anniversary of their mother's death, Ichigo explicates to Rukia that he doesn't wish to get involved with hollows or Shinigami on this one day, June 17. Rukia laments when she hears of Ichigo's backstory and strongly advises to stay by Ichigo JIC (just in case) something happens. Meanwhile, Rukia is in a little trouble herself when a Shinigami (anime-only) visits Rukia and warns her of time in the Human world, but Rukia knows of this. At the same time, a hollow comes out and whisks away Ichigo's sisters as hostages while Ichigo prepares for the upcoming battle against this hollow - to save his sisters and to discover the truth behind Ichigo's mother. 

This episode (and the next) develops Ichigo's behavior and character more. The implications surrounding Masaki's death are what define a shift in the Kurosaki family, but nonetheless, it seems as if the only one in pain still is Ichigo. Ichigo's battle with this hollow will be a revelation (spoiler) for what's to come and what will certainly be, one of Ichigo's many emotional outbreaks against the enemy. Until then, stay tune next week for Episode 9-10 between Wednesday-Friday. You all stay classy now.

Photos & Video courtesy of Bleachwiki.com and Youtube.com

Recollection #4 (Episode 7)

I do apologize once more that I was late in posting Recollection #4 since it's close to midnight here. So I came to a decision to split Recollection #4 Episodes 7-8 today and tomorrow. Today's post will be on Episode 7 of Bleach and Episode 8 will be posted tomorrow along with Death God's Bebop. I've been caught up with school, family, and friends. That being said, here's my review:

Greetings from a Stuffed Lion - Last week's Bleach was the introduction of the mod soul Kon. However, things would go from bad to worst when Kon decides to take Ichigo's body for a joyride, Ichigo fighting Kon using his own body. Kon, being a mod soul and a rare specimen at that, is able to endure more and as such, can be be a threat to Ichigo. Rukia is also learning of the implications of her staying in the human world whereas Ichigo is understanding the Shinigami realm while balancing his normal high school life + trying to keep family & friends at bay. In this week's episode, Kon's joyride takes a turn for the worst when a hollow comes out and targets a group of kids. Kon, not having a care for Ichigo's wellbeing or anyone else's for that matter, learns what he has to do and leaving those kids to the hollow isn't an option for Kon. Ichigo and Kon do fight, but they come to an understanding that they can't idly stand by and watch a hollow terrorize the human world. After all, Shinigami and Mod Souls fight Hollows. Leaving Kon in Ichigo's body wasn't much of a good idea, but it is the only way to protect Ichigo's body when he goes off to save the day. So Kon is placed in a plushy, a stuffed lion that will no doubt serve as the plushy mascot for Bleach. Kon and Ichigo save the kids from the hollow, Kon is placed in a lion plushy, and the start of two important elements in Bleach

1) The consequences of Rukia's involvement with the human world

2) Ichigo's Mother 

A Shinigami is told to investigate Rukia's involvement in the human world and Ichigo ponders about on the upcoming day that symbolizes the loss of Ichigo's mother and happiness. And that pretty much sums up the chapter. We get to see Ichigo as he remembers that day that would define and shape Ichigo's life as well as Rukia's Gigai body and the consequences surrounding her living with the Kurosakis. Until then, look forward for Episode 8 and Death God Bebop Track 4. Stay classy now. 

Update (07/25/13)

Hey there World, how you been since Bleach's hiatus? For me, I just idly await for its return patiently. I'm curious to know the direction it will go, but for the time being, we must make due with what I can offer on this site. So, since school's been taking a toll on me, I've decided that Thursday's normal posts (Recollections) will be posted between Wednesday-Friday. So there's no promises that it'll Recollections will be posted every Thursday, but perhaps Wednesday or even Friday. This gives me enough time to watch the episode, plot out the pivotal points in that episode, and make my opinion on it. I could've elaborated more which is what I intend to do. So what I'm trying to say in a nutshell is Thursday's Recollection posts will be posted around Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday at any random time. I haven't had the chance watch Bleach + I've been pretty tired from school. Just bear with me for now, this is only temporary until the hiatus ends and I'll go back to writing Recollections specifically for Thursdays. Until then, await tomorrow's Recollection and you all stay classy now

- Stillmattic 

Affinity #4 - Arisaki (Ichigo & Tatsuki)

Ichigo and Tatsuki, is there something behind this friendship? Well for starters, they're childhood friends + Tatsuki was the first person to ever make Ichigo cry. Following the death of Ichigo's mother, Tatsuki worried over Ichigo's skipping of class and went looking for him, a sign that despite their fights, she cares for Ichigo's wellbeing. Tatsuki over time met Orihime and became both her friend and protector whereas Ichigo went about his normal high school days being able to see ghosts and eventually becoming a Shinigami upon his encounter with Rukia Kuchiki. So Ichigo and Tatsuki, despite having little to no communication in the origins of the Bleach anime/manga, are friends. Tatsuki is also spiritually aware and as such, she is able to sense and see the supernatural. She also can pack a punch (in filler episodes, she is shown to be able to do a little damage to hollows) and as such, she could possibly be an asset in the upcoming war. Conscious of Ichigo's involvement with the Shinigami, Tatsuki has come to the conclusion that Ichigo knows of Orihime's whereabouts upon her absence (Aizen orchestrating her kidnapping). Tatsuki, despite being fully aware of Ichigo's Shinigami abilities, still worries for Ichigo and upon seeing Ichigo fight Aizen, she felt nothing coming from him - an indication that despite Ichigo's growth as a Shinigami, Tatsuki doesn't mind at all the implications surrounding Ichigo and that he'll always be her friend alongside Keigo & Mizuiro. What I thought was kinda cute was when Tatsuki saw Rangiku attempting to fight Aizen & Gin, feeling jealous that Ichigo didn't introduce Rangiku to her. Even after the whole Aizen arc, Tatsuki and Ichigo are on good terms, Tatsuki supporting Ichigo being a Shinigami, and still going about their halcyon days - hanging out at school, exchanging and borrowing games, and enjoying Ichigo's friendly beating on Keigo. Overall, I think Tatsuki values Ichigo highly and sees him as her one true "male" friend. She worries over Ichigo's safety, but knows that Ichigo can take care of himself. Upon hearing the news of maybe/maybe not seeing Ichigo in the Human World, she was saddened by her friend and this indicates Ichigo's influence he's had on his friends. So overall, there afinity is that of a brother-sister kinda vibe/close childhood friends with Tatsuki saving Ichigo from danger in the past. Until then, you all stay classy. Here a few instances Tatsuki is with Ichigo:

Childhood/High School/Time-Skip

Photos courtesy of Bleachwiki.com

Nico Robin vs. Rangiku Matsumoto (Beewbs!)

Vs.

Oh yeah Baby! You knew this was coming. A battle of Beewbs! I mean, BEEWBS! Yeah, these two women are what define "One Piece" or "Bleach" women. Long flowing hair, beautiful eyes, deadly in combat, goddess body, and most importantly - BEEWBS! Now I know what you're thinking. Why not add Orihime Inoue or Nami or better yet Boa Hancock? Well, I will at a point do a 2-on-2 match, but now let's keep it 1-on-1. These two are similar in some aspects such as:

a) Both serve under someone (Luffy/Hitsugaya)

b) Men fall for them (Sanji/Hisagi + Izuru)

c) Calm and collective in battle

d) Part of main character's group of friends (Luffy/Ichigo)

e) BEEWBS! 

I won't go into much detail on their backstory, but I will say they're both tragic to say the least. In a nutshell, Rangiku grew up with Gin as her friend and savior and Robin grew up with a mother who departed from her life to become a archaeologist and was raised by her mother's brother's wife who abused her and didn't welcome her due to the Devil Fruit. So in terms of beauty, they are both gorgeous, hot, and fantastic women with wonderful attributes that compliment them. For example, Rangiku is a happy-go-luck girl who likes booze, but it still loyal under her captain. Nico was once Luffy's enemy, but after Luffy gave her a 2nd chance to live once more, she became part of the Straw Hat Pirates. Now then, let's go over their abilities:

Nico Robin possess the abilities of Hana Hana No Mi, a Devil Fruit that when consumed enables the user to replicate and sprout pieces of their body onto any object or living thing. An example if when Nico Robin grabbed Frankie's balloons just by crossing her arms together and closing her hands (Poor Frankie). She can create a barrage of any part of her body to be used as her disposal - perhaps as a shield or a weapon. This is what makes her unique, her abilities give her a uniqueness aspect that is both a defensive and offensive tool. As well as her Devil Fruit powers, she is highly intelligent (being a archaeologist herself). Alongside the Straw Hat crew, she finally has a place she can call home with her lot of interesting characters (Nami, Luffy, Zoro, Sanji, Usopp, Brook, Frankie, and Chopper). 

Rangiku Matsumoto's shikai is titled Haineko (Ash Cat). Her blade turns to ash and cuts any object (much like Byakuya's Senbonzakura). It is used as a diversionary attack as well as a offensive attack that can take on various forms, but has its limitations when ash is compiled into a single attack. Other than her Shikai ability, she is skilled in Shunpo, Kido, and being a Lieutenant, can endure a lot. She is Toshiro's vice-captain as well as the one who enlisted Toshiro to join the Gotei 13. Since then, she has joined her lot of friends to help defeat the enemy (Ichigo, Orihime, Rukia, Chad, Uryu, Renji, Ikkaku, Yumichika, Toshiro, Kenpachi, etc). 

So who do you think won? Well, to be honest, you'd be surprised. The winner is.... Nico Robin

Why: No bias against Rangiku, but I think she is rather weak compared to Nico Robin + I think she's lost more than Robin in her battles. I think Robin is stronger, smarter, and hotter than Rangiku (but Rangiku is still hot in my opinion). Not much is revealed about Rangiku and I do want to know more about her, but Robin is more developed and as such, she's shown more in both the anime and manga. I got nothing against Rangiku, but it's a shame that she isn't shown more in either the anime or manga. Her relationship with Toshiro is a strong bond and Robin's friendship with her Nakama has also grown with multiple people - showcasing her affinities more than Rangiku. As such, Robin's and Rangiku's abilities don't necessarily require them to be near her opponents, but Robin's abilities are unique and can do much damage to a larger group of enemies (as seen above) compared to Rangiku's Haineko that, no offense, can't do much in terms of causing major damage. Again, got nothing against Rangiku and her Beewbs, but this victory goes to Nico Robin with her unique Devil Fruit abilities (imagine the XXX foreplay), her development from villain to protagonist, her friendship with Luffy and the gang, and her BEEWBS! So who do you think won? Nico Robin from One Piece or Rangiku Matsumoto from Bleach Vote here: http://poll.pollcode.com/1yyv2. Till then, you stay classy and look forward or tomorrow's Affinity. 

Throwback #11 - Ichigo vs. Renji (Round 2)

On June 2nd, 2013, I posted Throwback #4 entitled "Ichigo vs. Renji (Round 1)." This was Ichigo's first battle with a Shinigami and as it ended, Ichigo was pretty beaten up. Rukia was ticked off at Ichigo's actions towards her brother that she would never forgive Ichigo if he went after her. Ignoring her as always, Ichigo and his friends go off to the Soul Society to rescue the fragile Rukia from execution. However, let's step back a moment and evaluate Ichigo's first encounter with Renji Abarai, Lieutenant of the 6th Division under Byakuya Kuchiki, Rukia's older brother and captain of the 6th Division. In the human world, Renji's power is limited to what he can do from the Soul Society, giving him a slight disadvantage. However, that didn't stop him from doing much damage to Ichigo. Ichigo, unaware that Zanpaktou had names, was overpowered by the Lieutenant's strength that he was no match. Zabimaru inflicted damage to Ichigo and Byakuya, moving incredibly fast, had a piece of Ichigo's sword in his hands - leaving Ichigo vulnerable of attack by the 6th Division Captain & Lieutenant. Leaving the badly beaten Ichigo behind, he swore that he would rescue Rukia and with his ragtag team of friends (Orihime, Chad, Uryu, Ganju, & Hanatarou) - it was possible.

Flash forward to Ichigo's encounters in the Soul Society. His major fights included: Ikkaku Madarame, Renji Abarai, Kenpachi Zaraki, and Byakuya Kuchiki. Overpowered in all his fights, Ichigo manages to somehow find a way to turn the odds against him as he beats them all one by one, unaware of the strength a Shinigami possesses in the Soul Society. Ichigo trained and tired out his body in hopes that he could stand on par with Lieutenant/Captain class Shinigami and it just so happens, he did prove to stand toe-to-toe against them all, giving him a slight edge over all his opponents. Now Ichigo's fight with Renji in the Soul Society shaped Ichigo's resolve. Flashbacks of Ichigo's training with Urahara Kisuke, former 12th Captain of the Gotei 13, proved that Ichigo has learned a trick or two on facing Lieutenant/Captain-class Shinigami. The conjuration of power manifesting into Ichigo's sword, his power grows when raising his Zanpaktou, Zangetsu, above his shoulders. Renji, however, was unaware that Ichigo's unshaken resolve would turn the tide of victory in his favor as Renji is forced to rely on Ichigo's promise to rescue Rukia from her inevitable demise. With Urahara's help in mastering this technique, Ichigo's resolve proved to overpower Renji's strength and Ichigo's newly formed Zangetsu and power proved too much for Renji to comprehend. Nostalgia running through Renji's head as Renji remembers his meeting with Rukia and departure from his childhood upon Byakuya's adoption of his one true friend.

At first, Renji seemed to have the upper hand, his power amplified 10x when in the Soul Society compared to the Human World. He goes on to add that just because Ichigo's sword has taken on a new form, it wasn't enough to change the tides of victory. However, Ichigo proved Renji wrong when, as I said above, Ichigo's resolve was shown. His resolve in saving his friend is what drives Ichigo to become stronger than Renji's determination to prevent Ichigo's meddling into Shinigami affairs. Renji was afraid and yet he did all he could to muster up the courage to face this man, head-on and steadfast without a thought of Ichigo's potential growing. Ichigo learned of Renji's tactics and apart from his spiritual pressure spiraling out of control in the Human World, Ichigo's spiritual pressure was in control in the Soul Society. During his final attack on Renji, Ichigo repeats the same lessons Urahara taught him

When you counter, don't let them cut you
When you protect someone, don't let them die
When you attack, Kill! 

With Renji defeated and relying on Ichigo to save Rukia, Renji has places his trust on Ichigo despite being enemies. However, Renji was wrong the entire time, believing Ichigo was the one who caused Rukia's execution. Renji has comparing himself to Byakuya and rose up to his ranks in order to one day defeat him for taking away Rukia. He put the blame on Ichigo when he in actuality, he blamed Byakuya, his own captain, all along. Anyways, Ichigo's growth as a Shinigami is developing strongly and as always, Ichigo's fights will test his resolve more and more, pushing him until he can endure the hardships of it all.

Anyways, I hope you all enjoyed my lengthy Throwback on Ichigo vs. Renji Round 2. This was one of my favorite fights in Bleach and overall, began the friendship/bickering of Ichigo & Renji. Look forward for more Throwbacks every Sunday. Note that all pictures are courteous of its owners and publishers online. Until then, you all stay classy and see you Monday for Fight Night Mondays.

Death God's Bebop (Track #3) - Battle Ignition

Any franchise has epic music to get the audience riled up for what's to come. Shiro Sagisu's track "Battle Ignition" is one of those tracks that has Bleach fans riled up. It's epic, memorable, and is one of the first tracks introduced in Bleach. I recall this track being used whenever Ichigo was about to engage in battle with someone or if something epic was about to happen. Whenever this song plays and Ichigo's in the midst of battle, you feel that things are just getting started and will escalate into something epic and badass. Also, when something is bound to knock off our socks off, this song is perfect for riling up the audience that sh*t's gonna go down. The progression of Ichigo's development as a Shinigami and this song go hand-in-hand, the start of something that has paid off from the intense training. In any battle, it gets you riled up to see whose going to fight, whose going to win the fight, and most importantly, what powers are incorporated in the fight. The guitar strings in this song are so sick and it happens to be one of my favorite tracks in the Bleach Ost. It's an epic song for something great (or grand) that's about (or bound) to happen. If you'd like to hear the tracks from Bleach Osts, just check it out on Youtube. Until then, you all stay classy now. Look forward for more Death God Bebop tracks every Saturday (every other week is an opening/ending and background music the other). Video/Song courtesy of Youtube.com

Note: There will be no Wednesday/Fridays posts until Hiatus ends. Thank you for understanding!

Bleach Segment Fridays (#8) - The Beginning of the End

Remember a time where there was no conflict between the characters? Remember our hero leisurely going about his high school days seeing pluses and punching Keigo in the face? Remember when everything felt so....peaceful that it could possibly go on forever? Well, it's unfortunate that peace couldn't be resolved within the war and has instead escalated at an all time high. Seireitei has vanished. Ichigo, Rukia, & Renji are in the Royal Palace, and Orihime wishes that there would be peace. It's unknown on the statuses of the Gotei 13 because the last we ever see of them was when they were training for the upcoming war. And now, where are they? Are they alive? Are they barely holding on? The invasion was a success, but I want to know what will happen or what has happened to everyone after the 5-7 week hiatus. The look on Akon's face sums up my feelings on this week's chapter and what with the hiatus, all I can do is make assumptions on what could or would happen. Until then, you all stay classy now and just bear with the hiatus status.  (Note: There will be NO Bleach Wednesday or Friday posts)

Recollection #3 (Episodes 5-6 Summary + Review)

#5) Beat the Invisible Enemy! - Continuing from last week's episode, Yasutora Chad, Ichigo's friend, is helping out Yuichi Shibata, a soul that is trapped inside a parakeet's body. From the devious clutches of  Shrieker, a manipulative, pretentious, and insidious hollow that was once a human serial killer, Shrieker is bent on torturing Yuichi Shibata, killing innocent people around them, and stopping all attempts of rescue from Ichigo, Rukia, & Chad. However, Chad, being aware that there is a hollow there, can still put up a fight as he punches Shrieker blindly. Rukia on the other hand, unfortunately, is powerless in stopping Shrieker and enlists the help of Chad to tag-teaming the hollow. Even in her Gigai form, Rukia can somewhat put up a fight, but it wasn't enough to silence the hollow. Pinning her down and thwarting their tag-team effort, Rukia is beaten up pretty badly by Shrieker as he launches an attack of leeches (Shrieker's artillery). Shrieker's artillery fires leeches on Rukia that, when activated by Shrieker, explode. Exposing Rukia's weakness, it seems as if this could be the end for Rukia, but hope doesn't waver as Ichigo comes to save the day, demanding that Yuichi be freed from his diabolical clutches. The circumstances surrounding Yuichi's death and Shrieker's "promise" of bringing back his mother were what brought about the Gates of Hell to surface and to take Shrieker. - his sins cannot be cleansed due to the actions he took when he was a human and a hollow. The aftermath of it all is Yuichi's chain of fate being severed and eventually be sent off to the Soul Society to be at peace. Karin, frightened at Yuichi's soul entrapping a parakeet, can now be at peace as Ichigo once again saves the day from Shrieker's games. 

Review/Thoughts - This episode showcases Chad's involvement with the supernatural, being able to foster a friendship with Yuichi Shibata, and being saddened upon his departure to the Soul Society (learning of a plus being at peace). Though Chad is still without powers, his strength and courage alone did do a little damage to the hollow. This also shows Rukia's depravity of her own powers, having to rely on Chad, and using whatever she can conjure up in hopes to stall the hollow from doing anymore damage. Ichigo's growth as a Shinigami is also showing - going through the trouble of taking out hollows, sending pluses off to the Soul Society through Konso, and protecting his friends from being Hollow food. I like the growth of Ichigo's development as a Shinigami. I like Chad's willingness to go through the lengths of saving Yuichi despite being without supernatural powers, but physical strength enough sent the hollow flying. I like Rukia knowing her limitations as she discovers the implications of a Gigai's capabilities and her depravity having its consequences that would surely turn out for better or worse of our hero Ichigo and his friends

#6) Fight to the Death! Ichigo vs. Ichigo - This the introduction to Kon pretty much. With Ichigo going out and about as a human and as a Shinigami, he doesn't have the time to have someone, more-or-less Rukia, protect Ichigo's conscious body while he goes and saves the day from Hollow evil. So Rukia insists on a substitute in which a pill, when swallowed, will takeover Ichigo's body while Ichigo (in his Shinigami form) can peacefully, without worry, save the day. This doesn't turn out pretty well when the host embodying Ichigo takes it for a joyride (flirting with the girls in Karakura High School + performing stupid acts that the REAL Ichigo wouldn't commit). Rukia explains that the modified souls were meant to combat Hollows - pretty much a soldier. However, Operation Spearhead, the name of the operation entitling Modified souls to fight Hollows in soulless bodies, was scrapped and they were ordered to be wiped out, with Kon escaping his own demise. Kon understands the implications and prefers to enjoy Ichigo's body as much as he can to escape being demised altogether. This also introduces Kisuke Urahara and his shop, helping out Rukia with Soul Candy (the pill) and how to go about with her Gigai adjustment. This is, in my opinion, a 2-parter episode because it discusses Kon's involvement as well as the implications that surround Rukia's Gigai. 

Review/Thoughts - This episode is just a developmental stage for Ichigo in which he has to make adjustments on fighting hollows while his body is detached. The Modified soul seemed to be the answer to all of Ichigo's troubles, but it was just the beginning of a revelation of how dangerous Mod Souls' past were in Operation Spearhead and how occupying a host body could end up becoming one's person treasure. Kon, a perverted, powerful, and comical Modified soul and Ichigo do not get along and with things heating up with how they are, will Kon end up being an ally or enemy? It isn't a bad episode, but rather a setup of what's in store for Ichigo's responsibilities, the implications surrounding Rukia's "human adapting" to the Real world, and the consequences of it all when Rukia's acts and Ichigo's power take a turn for the worst (Spoiler). The supernatural and human world are so different, what are the boundaries one can set for themselves - diverging between both worlds or adapting to one world, discarding the other? Well, we'll just have to see in episodes 7-8. Look forward for next week's recollection and I'm pretty aware the summaries did cover everything, but it covered the central themes surrounding that episode. Until then, you all stay classy now. 

Note: There will be No Wednesday/Friday posts due to hiatus on Bleach manga. This week's Bleach segment will be the last segment until Hiatus status ends

WBCR - Final Days (Grade C-) + Hiatus Status

Before I start, there will be a hiatus in Bleach for the author to prepare for the epicness of the final arc of Bleach - the all-out brawl. It's been a long journey, but fear not - this gives us time to take-in what's been going on in Bleach and to be extremely impatient that in the next 5-7 weeks there will be NO bleach chapters. I am impatient when it comes to Bleach hiatuses, but then again, we have to take into consideration that the author is doing all this for a reason. That being said, there will sadly be no Bleach chapter reviews for awhile (WBCR) so Wednesdays will be vacant. Perhaps I may create a short-lived installment for Wednesdays until the end of the hiatus, but I guarantee no such promises. So let's continue on with this week's 1 minute chapter of reading:

To be fair, I was expected a lot more in this week's chapter. Revelations, unsolved questions, and delayed answers will again be saved for a later time after the hiatus. I was expecting perhaps Ichigo to show up before the end of the chapter or something on the lines of a strategy meeting with all the Captains for the upcoming war, but nope - we get:

a) The continuation of Kyoraku's conversation to Tatsuki, Keigo, & Mizuiro
b) Orihime and Chad at Hueco Mundo, wishing for peaceful days to continue
c) Seireitei is gone

As I said in the previous WBCR, Ichigo is likely not to return to the Human World because he could be meant for something greater + the nature of his power is unverifiable to the Gotei 13 + what effects it could have on the human world. And sure enough, I was spot on (on one of those points). Keigo, pissed at the news, believed Kyoraku is joking, but he assures them he isn't and that Ichigo will be needed to shield Soul Society once more. The chances, however, are 10,000 to 1 in Ichigo's return, but Kyoraku reassures everyone that they'll be able to visit the Soul Society with a ticket anytime they want. Ichigo's family also received their fair share of tickets, but it still bothers Tatsuki that Ichigo could be cast away from the human world forever, but Kyoraku reassures them again that before the war starts, he'll send Ichigo to the human world to unwind and to see his friends.

On the other hand, Orihime & Chad are in Hueco Mundo unwinding. Though war is inevitable, Orihime is at peace with helping out Arrancars and the Shinigami - wishing it could last forever. FINALLY, the landscape surrounding Seireitei is gone as well as Seireitei itself. Juha Bach, Uryu, & Jugram are together w/Seireitei completely vanished and the invasion a success. Juha Bach reminds Uryuu of the Kaiser Gesang and he recites it, but Juha Bach reminds him of another verse that concludes with - "And regained the world after 9 days. With this, the three venture forth and in 9 days the world will come to an end.

So the verdict - I wanted more. We always want more, right? We want more everything in Bleach, but it will have to wait. I could argue that it took me a minute or less to read, but nonetheless, it's just a setup chapter w/3 components that could've been longer or elaborated on a bit more. Until then, 5-7 weeks of no bleach chapters (No WBCR, sorry). Patience.....must practice patience. For now, you all stay classy. Grade: C-

Affinity #3 - "Kenpachi" (UnoZar)

The 1st and 11th Kenpachi(s) have had a history that will define their love of battle and their respect for one another. It is unfortunate that it came to a bitter end when these two great warriors had to fight to the death with one coming out victor and the other to die. Zaraki Kenpachi was the only man who did harm to Yachiru Unohana and thus, Yachiru best thought that Zaraki was able to surpass her if he were to just let it all go in battle (so that he'll be able to communicate with his Zanpaktou). Yachiru is also the name of Zaraki's lieutenant, to whom Zaraki named after the 1st Kenpachi coincidentally. This rivalry was bound to happen, but Yachiru Unohana has been concealing (shackling) her bloodthirst for quite awhile and has dedicated herself in practicing medicine with the 4th Division. Zaraki, however, lived the life of a man thriving for more battles, more bloodshed, and more strong opponents to fight. What was holding him back was his inability to let go of the burdens that shackled him down, to which Unohana helped him out. Even at death (Spoiler), Unohana saw Zaraki as the true successor and that for the future battles to come, there was more to come for Kenpachi Zaraki. She wanted to be free from all the burdens she'd held and that is why she allowed Zaraki Kenpachi to defeat her, but she did prove to be a match (she wasn't a pussy ya'know).

Yachiru was once known as the most diabolical criminal in the Soul Society and Zaraki was the first to inflict damage on her - something in the boy's thirst for battle and his eyes made her know at that time that he was the one to best her as she says that even she wasn't able to stop Zaraki. Kenpachi Zaraki once respected Yachiru Unohana and Yachiru Unohana once respected Kenpachi Zaraki - it was through their battle to the death that Yachiru would eventually free Zaraki from his shackles and be able to fight without any restraints. Yachiru essentially shaped Zaraki's character and inspired him (that is why Zaraki named his lieutenant after her). This shows a mutual understanding for one another as they both live to fight - fearlessly and menacingly going toe-to-toe with the best. Ultimately Unohana died at Zaraki's hands and this leads to Zaraki being able to communicate with his Zanpaktou. Until then, Zaraki's Zanpaktou is unnamed and Unohana is decreased with no regrets. I hope you enjoyed this week's affinity with the Kenpachi. You all stay classy now!

Xanxus vs. Starrk (Trigger Fingers)

Vs. 

The trigger finger men who are highly capable of duel wielding two guns in an effort to kick some ass. One is cool and collected while the other is a hothead and ambitious, but nonetheless, they’re weapons define their skill set when facing someone who perhaps has twin swords or uses elements such as like fire. One is the 1^st Espada under Aizen's command and the other the Leader of the Varia. So in terms of weaponry, they both duel wield. The differences between these to two characters are:

a)    Starrk serves under Aizen/Xanxus is a leader

b)   Starrk has a partner (Lilynette)/Xanxus has the Varia

c)    Starrk has no scars/Xanxus has scars

d)   Starrk is calm/Xanxus is prone to violent outbursts

e)    Starrk is an Arrancar/Xanxus is a human

f)     Starrk has no family/Xanxus had a family

g)    Starrk only appears in one arc/Xanxus appears in various arcs

h)   Starrk is dead/Xanxus is not

So in terms of differences, there’s quite a lot. Both have tragic pasts: Xanxus was born in poverty, got adopted by the Vongola, and later turning against his own adoptive father that’ll eventually lead to being encased in ice for 8 years. Starrk tried to live alongside other hollows, but it caused them to lose their souls and die. He split his own soul in two (Lilynette being a part of him) and wants to be weak so he can live alongside his own kind and if not, he wanted to find someone just as strong as him. So Xanxus was encased in ice for 8 years and Starrk’s existence had hollows dying around him + having to split his soul in two for company. Xanxus’s past is saddening because he lived in a awful state and even when he was adopted into a crime family, he wanted more – power, ambition, and to be the next head after his adoptive father. Turns out it wasn’t meant to be as Tsuna (the main character of Katekyo Hitman Reborn) would be his successor, driving Xanxus in a furious age and escalating into an all-out brawl between the Varia and Tsuna’s group. In the end, however, Xanxus was ultimately defeated as the sky ring rejected him for not being the Vongola descendent and was forced to resign from the brawl between the Varia and Tsuna's group. Starrk, however, died at the hands of Shunsui Kyoraku's shikai. Starrk, being the strongest Espada, was outdone, but his speed and precision in firing his Los Lobos was remarkably fast. Showing no sign of restraint, Starrk battled it out up until his demise by Kyoraku's "Color game." One was killed and the other lost. However, in terms of their duel-wielding guns, Xanxus' "X-guns" are able to absorb and store the Dying Will flame - resulting in literally "a flaming bullet." He even uses his own guns to propel himself in the air (shoots the ground) to escape and dodge attacks. Starrk, however, can fire limitless amounts of Cero when firing Los Lobos (Lilynette is actually the guns) and when using "Cero Metralleta," it was firing Ceros so fast that Kyoraku was struggling. 

In terms of victory, I will have to give it ultimately to: Coyote Starrk

Why: No offense, but Starrk is unpredictable in my opinion. He is lazy, doesnt prefer to fight, and his backstory is more troubling that Xanxus. He's been alone and with Hollows dying around him, splitting his own soul in two was the only thing he could do to afford company (that is until Aizen and the Espada welcomed him as #1). Xanxus, you could tell his overconfidence was going to get the better of him + he isn't as fast as Starrk in his final form. I didn't cover their other abilities, just their abilities in firing their guns - one fires Ceros and the one fire. However, I do admit Xanxus is more creative in his attacks whereas Starrk is more straightforward. Xanxus is a great villain, but I just didn't find him as fast as Starrk and his backstory wasn't as sad as Starrk's. I mean Starrk, if he didn't split his own soul, would be the Forever Alone guy. Xanxus has a family, but his own ambitions furthered his own dream of wanting to be the next Vongoa Head. 

So who do you think won? Coyote Starrk or Xanxus? Vote now! Until then, you all say classy. Look forward for tomorrow's Affinity

http://www.easypolls.net/poll.html?p=51e4c3afe4b084575d85673e