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!