Soul Society

Soul Society

Kanji Government Capital Form of Government Ruler Administration Leader Military Currency First Appearance Manga Debut Anime Debut

()

Seireitei Feudal Monarchy/Oligarchy Soul King Central 46 Unspecified Gotei 13, Kid Corps,Onmitsukid Kan

Chapter 71 Episode 7

Soul Society ( (), literally "dead spirit world")[1] is an afterlife (also called the spirit world). This is also where Shinigami live and where most Souls dwell until they are reincarnated into the Human World. Contents [show] Overview While Rukia Kuchiki initially describes Soul Society as something of a paradise, where nine out of ten times it is better than the living world and hunger is never a problem,[2] Soul Society is far from sublime. In fact, aside from the slowed aging and aforementioned lack of hunger, life there is much like that in the living world. Soul Society consists of the Rukongai (, wandering soul city; Viz: Rukon District), where souls live when they arrive in Soul Society, and Seireitei (, court of pure souls), which is at the center of Soul Society. The mode of life here closely resembles that of feudal Japan.[3] The Human World and Soul Society are parallel to each other and are two sides of the same coin. Families separated by death are rarely reunited in the Soul Society unless they arrive in Soul Society together. People live nestled together like a family of strangers.[4]One never gets hungry (if she or he doesn't have spiritual powers) and aging is slowed to a great extent, with lifespans of 2000 or more years not being unheard of, though such ages are limited to Shinigami or other Soul Society dwellers with high spiritual power. Children can be born as they are in the Human World. People can also be killed as regular Humans are, though they are capable of surviving wounds that would normally be considered fatal. A soul that dies in Soul Society is reincarnated on Earth as a new Human with no past memories.[5] Accessing Soul Society Shinigami enter and leave Soul Society by unlocking the Senkaimon and using a Jigokuch. Pluses, on the other hand, enter Soul Society through the ritual of Soul Burial. When people die, they are assigned a number to a part of Soul Society according to when they died. Spirits can be born in Soul Society as much as in the living world, with the Shinigami acting to balance the souls. Intruders can pass through the Senkaimon in the same manner, but only in soul form. This allows spiritual beings, such as Ichigo in his Shinigami form, to enter without permission.[6] Humans can also use such a gate through the use of Reishihenkanki (, spirit exchangers), which convert solid matter into Reishi's. Finally, Hollows can also directly rip a hole to Soul Society from Hueco Mundo, or in the case of Arrancar, using a Garganta.[7] Government

Soul King Soul Society is ruled by the Soul King, who commonly leaves the running of Soul Society to the Central 46 Chambers and Nobles. The Soul King lives in the Royal Palace in a separate dimension in the very core of Soul Society, which is protected by the Royal Guard. The King does have a specific system of "specialty duties" which are actively carried out but the exact nature of these duties is unknown.[8] The dimension can only be opened with a tri-pronged golden key fittingly named the Royal Key (, ken).[9] The location of this Royal Key is passed down verbally from one Gotei 13 Captain-Commander to the next, the former holder beingGenrysai Shigekuni Yamamoto. According to Rangiku Matsumoto, no Shinigami has ever seen the king. Nobility Main article: Noble HousesAnother part of the government are the Noble Houses (Noble Families in the English version), especially the four Great Noble Houses, which are considered to be the highest of them all. The lower noble houses all serve one of the four each. Judiciary Main article: Central 46Central 46 (, Ch Shijroku): The Central 46 serve the Shinigami royalty. They are made up of 40 wise men and 6 judges, selected from all of Soul Society. They are sealed into an enclave in Seireitei calledSeijtkyorin () which no one else may enter, regardless of their military or civilian status. They act as a supreme judiciary organization whose authority puts it in direct control of the legal system. They handle all rulings on Shinigami and souls who have violated prohibitions. Their orders are absolute and no decision has been known to be overturned. Laws

The ultimate law is to maintain balance.[10] It is against the law for a Shinigami to give their spiritual power to Humans.[11] It is against the law for a Shinigami to use forbidden Kid. It is against the law for any citizen of Soul Society to create weapons of a dangerous nature not sanctioned by the feudal government. To do so is treason. It is against the law to attack a captain. To do so is treason. It is against the law to commit terrorist action(s) or attempt to overthrow the balance of Soul Society. To do so is treason. It is against the law to commit murder.[12] It is against the law to kill a Human that a Shinigami has not been ordered to kill.[13] It is forbidden for a Shinigami to acquire or attempt to gain Hollow-like powers.

It is a crime for a Shinigami to remain in the Human World longer than a certain time limit. It is against the law for the Gotei 13 to meddle in the affairs of the noble families unless the family in question breaks one of the laws of Soul Society beyond a shadow of a doubt. It is by ancient law that two Shinigami cannot hold the same Zanpakut. They must fight for the honor of bearing the spirit, with the spirit going to the winner, and the loser being executed.[10] It is forbidden for a Shinigami to intervene in anything that is related to Hell.[14] All Modified Souls must be scrapped.[15]

Punishment

Exile: Certain crimes allows for the punishment of exile, commonly stripping a Shinigami of their powers and banishing them to the Human World. Detention: A punishment not well known among the citizens of Soul Society is the detention of Shinigami. It is commonly reserved for those who have either broken the law, quit the Gotei 13, or those who just seem dangerous and mentally unstable (as per the government's interpretation). This is carried out by the Onmitsukid. Imprisonment: The Central 46 can sentence a Shinigami to be held in the Central Great Underground Prison (, shin'chikadaikangoku) for a set amount of time. The prison has eight levels which prisoners are confined in based on the severity of their crimes. For the use of forbidden Kid techniques, Tessai Tsukabishi was sentenced to be confined in Shugo (, Gathering Group), the 3rd level of the underground prison.[16] For the crime of treason, Ssuke Aizen was sentenced to be imprisoned for 20,000 years in Muken (, Voided Space), the 8th and final level of the underground prison underneath the First Division barracks.[17][18]

There are two known forms of execution in Soul Society:

Spirit-Sealing Pit: The Spirit-Sealing Pit is an ancient form of execution in which Shinigami criminals are thrown into a pit walled with sekki sekki rock a type of stone that absorbs spiritual power, preventing those nearby from using their powers. Hollows are then thrown into the pit with the criminals as the means of execution. The practice was considered too barbaric and discontinued.[19] The Spirit-Sealing Pits were converted into garbage dumps.[20] Skyoku (, Twinned Punishment): The "ultimate punishment", Skyoku is a form of execution usually reserved for those with extremely strong spiritual powers, namely Shinigami captains. The Skyoku is a giant halberd that utterly destroys a soul on contact. When released, Skyoku takes on the form of a phoenix, its true form, called Kik.[21] The Kik has the destructive power of a million Zanpakut, and that power is multiplied by a factor of 10 at the moment it pierces its victim. It was destroyed by Jshir Ukitake and Shunsui Kyraku.[22]

Military The armed forces of Soul Society consist of three independent main branches: the Gotei 13, the Kid Corpsand the Onmitsukid. Gotei 13 Main article: Gotei 13The Gotei 13 (, goteijsantai; 13 Division Imperial Guards, or 13 Court Guard Squads in the English dubbed version) is the organization which most Shinigami join. It is split into thirteen divisions (hence the name), with several divisions having certain specializations. The 4th Division is the medical/supply division, the11th Division is the combat division (specialization in swordsmanship), and the 12th Division is the research/scientific division. The 9th Division is in charge of newspaper and magazine-related duties. It's unclear if the other divisions are specialized, as the four above are the only ones who receive any significant attention apart from their members. Additionally, it should be noted that Su-Fng is in charge of both the 2nd Divisionand the Onmitsukid. The Gotei 13 somewhat seems to have superiority and little authority over the two branches (i.e., Su-Fng, the Commander-in-Chief of the Onmitsukid and Tessai Tsukabishi, the former Grand Kid Chief). Royal Guard Main article: Royal GuardAlso known as the Zero Division, it is made up of former captains of the Gotei 13 who have been promoted to this level. Only captains of the Gotei 13 know of their existence. They are said to have considerable power and tactical knowledge. Only the Royal family presides over them, the Central 46 have no say in them what so ever. Kid Corps Main article: Kid CorpsThere is currently little information on the Kid Corps (, kidsh) (known as the Kid Force in English), due to the secrecy in which they operate.[23] The members all excel in Kid. Onmitsukid Main article: OnmitsukidThere is little information about the operations of the Onmitsukid. They are currently lead by Su-Fng, who is also the captain of the Gotei 13's Second Division. She succeeded Yoruichi Shihin in both posts. Technology Level One of the more unusual aspects of Soul Society is its technology level. While the lifestyle and culture of Soul Society is comparable to feudal Japan, they possess technology of a level exceeding that time period. The Shinigami Research Institute has developed amazing technology to their credit, mixing technology with organic components. Allowing for the creation of creatures that do everything from detecting spiritual energy signatures to allowing Humans to see a spirit without the use of a Gigai. They possess touch-screens and databases which are in use for files and historical documentation storage

found extensively in the Daireishokairo (, Great Spirit Book Gallery), which contains all the knowledge and history of Soul Society. View screen technology that is capable of sending signals to the Human World and Dangai, allowing for face to face conferencing. All manner of portable hand-held devices for tracking and communication purposes. Blending old traditions and ideas with new innovation, Soul Society is an enigma in this comparison. Rukongai Main article: Rukongai Rukongai (, wandering soul city) is the largest portion of Soul Society and the most populated. It is divided into 320 districts (80 in North Rukongai, 80 in West Rukongai, 80 in South Rukongai, 80 in East Rukongai) Seireitei Main article: SeireiteiSeireitei (, court of pure souls) is in the center of Soul Society, a circular shiro with four main entrances, each guarded by a Gatekeeper. The walls of Seireitei are made of stone called Sekkiseki (,spirit reducing stone), a material known to negate all Reiryoku, similar to magnetic lodestones. The stone also forms a spherical barrier around the city which stops anything spiritual from breaching it.

Human World
Human World

Kanji Government

First Appearance Manga Debut Anime Debut Chapter 1 Episode 1

The Human World (, Gense; also known as Living World), also referred to as the World of the Living, Material World, or the Real World, is where living Humans reside. Overview The Human World is home to Pluses, the Quincy, the Visored,Kisuke Urahara's group, and the Bounts. Hollows, which normally reside in Hueco Mundo, often visit the Human World to hunt souls, which they feed upon. Prominent areas of the Human World include Karakura Town in Western Tokyo, whereIchigo Kurosaki, his family, and his friends live, Kagamino City, which is 22km east of Karakura Town,[1] and Naruki City.Xcution has its headquarters in Naruki City's Chbara District, which is located roughly to the west of Karakura Town.[2] The concentration of Reishi in the atmosphere is lower in the Human World than it is in Hueco Mundo and Soul Society. Shinigami and Arrancar can gather Spirit Particles underneath their feet to stand, walk, or balance in the air, while Pluses seem to be able to float around at will. The area in the Human World which has the highest concentration of Spirit Energy and has the highest rate of attracting spiritual beings is referred to as the Jreichi. The exact location of this area varies over time, but is currently Karakura Town.[3] Shinigami are regularly stationed in the Human World. The duties of such Shinigami include finding and sending Pluses to Soul Society and slaying Hollows in order to protect Humans and Pluses. Shinigami stay in the Human World for a set period. Rukia Kuchiki was officially stationed in Karakura Town for one month,[4]though she actually stayed for much longer than this. It appears there is only one Shinigami stationed in Karakura Town at a time. On occasion, groups of students from the Shin' Academy are sent to the Human World to gain experience in the duties they will have to perform when they become fullfledged Shinigami, an example being the soul burial practice conducted by Shhei Hisagi, Izuru Kira, Renji Abarai, and Momo Hinamori.[5] Members of the Onmitsukid are known to have visited the Human World, capturing images of Ichigo Kurosaki injuring a Menos Grande.[6] When Shinigami come to the Human World, their Reiryoku can unduly influence the local population if they do not keep their power under control.[7] Failure to exert such control can awaken the powers of living Humans who have some spiritual power, as exhibited by Ichigo Kurosaki's lack of control being blamed for affecting his friends. Shinigami are bound by Soul Society's laws not to harm or interfere with Humans. Rukia Kuchiki is arrested for breaking these laws. Captains and lieutenants who travel to the Human World have a seal placed on their powers, referred to as a limiter, which can contain up to 80% of their power, although it can be removed in the event of an emergency. This restricts their spiritual power to a level at which they will not accidentally influence the Human inhabitants.[8]

Hueco Mundo
Hueco Mundo

Kanji Government Capital Form of Government

Las Noches

None

Ruler

Tier Harribel, Ssuke Aizen(former), Baraggan Louisenbairn (former) None None; Formerly the Espada& Exequias.

Leader Military First Appearance Manga Debut Anime Debut

Chapter 244 Episode 1

Hueco Mundo ( (), Wekomundo; Spanish for "Hollow World", Japanese for "Hollow Sphere") is the dimension in which Hollow and Arrancar usually reside. It lies in between theHuman World and Soul Society. Contents [show] Overview An unchanging night covers the sky, an endless white desert covers the ground. The tree-like objects are not plants, but rather quartz-like minerals.[1]

Hueco Mundo as it originally appeared, with a black and white sky. It was a different area, where Grand Fisher apparently frequented. The landscape of Hueco Mundo is a seemingly never-ending white desert, with a multitude of dunes, littered with boulders. In Hueco Mundo, the moon is on the oppositelunar phase of that in the Human World. The vast desert seems to lack any bodies of water and contains rocky formations. Like inSoul Society, the atmosphere is filled with a high concentration ofReishi, thus allowing smaller Hollows to gain nourishment despite the lack of Human souls.[2] Similar to the case of real world deserts, active life in Hueco Mundo appears to be few and far between. Hollows generally dwell below the surface or in other areas until something provokes them to leave their shelter, like the intrusion of a foreign entity. According to theShinigami, all Hollows dwell in Hueco Mundo regardless of their shape, size, or power. Accessing Hueco Mundo Hueco Mundo is located between the Human World and Soul Society, though it is separated from the bordering dimension known as the Dangai. It can only be accessed via Garganta, which tears the dimensional fabric separating the worlds, allowing Hollows to travel to any other dimension at will.[3][4] Government Hueco Mundo has no formal government. In Hueco Mundo, the strongest being wields power. If there is no particular leader or organization, Hueco Mundo runs as usual. Military

Military of Hueco Mundo Unit Name

Unit Description

Unit Picture

Espada

Ten of the most powerful Arrancar. Ranked 0 through 9 based on their combat ability. Their ranks are tattooed on their bodies.[5]

Fraccin

Arrancar who serve under the Espada. The Espada are allowed to have as many Fraccin as they want.[6]

Privaron Espada

Arrancar stripped of their Espada rank and given a Tres Cifras rank.[7]

Exequias

A unit responsible for eliminating intruders in Las Noches. They recovered battle records from Arrancar who were defeated by Ichigo Kurosaki.[8]

Locations

Notable Locations in Hueco Mundo Location Name

Location Description

Location Picture

A series of buildings surrounded by a large dome. Formerly ruled by Baraggan Louisenbairn, King of Hueco Mundo, it became the Las Noches headquarters of Ssuke Aizen and his army of Arrancar for a short time.

Forest of Menos

There exists a vast forest underneath Hueco Mundo where Menosclass Hollows reside. The trees in this forest extend to the surface and dot the landscape above ground. The Adjuchas-class Menos which reside in this forest are under the control of Aizen.

Negal Ruins

During the Quincy Blood War, Kisuke Urahara sets up his temporary base of operations here.[9]

Gotei 13
Gotei 13

Kanji English Romaji Organization Founder(s) Headquarters Leader(s)

13 Court Guard Squads Goteijsantai

Genrysai Shigekuni Yamamoto Seireitei, Soul Society Captain-Commander

Senior Member(s) Captains of the Gotei 13

1st Division 2nd Division 3rd Division 4th Division 5th Division 6th Division

Other Members

7th Division 8th Division 9th Division 10th Division 11th Division 12th Division 13th Division

Affiliation

Soul Society Primary Defense/Offense Force of Soul Society

Purpose

"Dying to exterminate great evil. Know that this is the spirit of the Gotei 13." - Genrysai Shigekuni Yamamoto[1] The Gotei 13 (, Goteijsantai; 13 Division Imperial Guards, 13 Court Guard Squads in the English dub, 13 Court Guard Companies in the English manga) is the primary military branch of Soul Society and the main military organization most Shinigami join after leaving the academy. Contents [show] History

The first 13 captains. While the history of the Gotei 13 remains largely unknown, the organization was founded by Genrysai Shigekuni Yamamoto, who has stood at the head of the group since its inception.[2]

The first generation of the Gotei 13 consisted of Yamamoto,Yachiru Unohana and 11 other captains. Yhwach considers this generation to be the strongest version of the Gotei 13.[3] According to Yhwach, the original Gotei 13 were "defenders" in name only, comprising nothing less than a brutal mob of killers, but it was for this very reason they were a force to be feared. It is noted the Gotei 13 underwent dramatic changes after the extermination of the Quincy, mellowing out in the ensuing peace, having now found a sense of justice upon discovering things to protect and treasure.[4] Mission The Gotei 13 serves as a military force with its primary responsibilities consisting of:

The defense of the Seireitei, the center of Soul Society. The deployment of Division members into enemy territory for combat operations. The deployment of Task Forces as defensive measures in the Human World. The guiding of souls to Soul Society.

General Operation The Gotei 13 does not normally operate as a cohesive unit. The command of the divisions are generally left to the discretion of its particular Captain, who commonly runs it whatever way he or she sees fit, allowing for the change of a division's traditional duties to an entirely new set and even the creation of a separate institution connected to the division. The Gotei 13's main duty is to defend the Seireitei, but they are allocated districts inRukongai to defend.[5] In addition to these duties, Shinigami have to deal with the business of being assigned to the Human World.[5] The only general authority to call forth a combined front is an edict from the Central 46 Chambers, or more often the Captain-Commander. It is not uncommon for captains to not see each other as a whole group for long periods of time, except for cases involving a threat to all of Soul Society, a captain's punishment, or, to a lesser degree, a captain's promotion. On a regular basis, the captains are spread out all across Soul Society doing their divisions' duties, whatever they may be. They are so far spread out, getting the captains together as a group, or even getting their lieutenants together as a group, could normally take a day to accomplish. Unless specifically ordered by the Captain-Commander, captains can choose whether or not to attend meetings (at their own risk) or not even involve themselves in the daily situations of Soul Society. Captains are not allowed, without permission, to carry out activities outside of their normal jurisdiction or their division. The captain of one division cannot punish the subordinates of another captain. Officially, the Kid Corps and Onmitsukid are not part of the Gotei 13, but since Su-Fng is both the captain of the 2nd Division and the head of the Onmitsukid, the Onmitsukid is effectively under the control of the Gotei 13. Additionally, the captain of the Kid Corps has been known to obey summons and orders from the Captain-Commander of the Gotei 13.[6]

Organization Structure The Gotei 13 is made up of thirteen divisions, with several divisions having certain specializations.[7] The Gotei 13 is led by the Captain-Commander, who has the statuary authority to conduct all the affairs of the Gotei 13 while deferring to the authority of the Central 46 Chambers in matters involving Soul Society. As with any army, the Gotei 13 has ranks. There are 20 ranks for officers, but no ranks for non-officers. The lower the number is, the higher the rank. The ranks and their descriptions are below, from highest to lowest in terms of strength. The Gotei 13 is an organization with a merit-based hierarchy. It has disposed of the system of rank based on seniority. Abilities are the only thing used to determine one's rank.[7] Captain's Council The captains congregate in the main hall of the First Division Headquarters to discuss important issues involving their specific divisions and matters which affect Soul Society. This council is highly formal, with the captain-commander leading its proceedings. All captains are considered equal (with the exception of the captain-commander), and determine the course of their individual division unless dictated otherwise by the captain-commander. Votes are carried out via a unanimous consensus.

The Captain-Commander (, Staich; Viz "Captain-General"; Captain-Commander, HeadCaptain in the English dub) is the supreme leader of the Gotei 13. The position requires the Captain-Commander to oversee the overall operations of the Gotei 13, Onmitsukid and Kid Corps when the well-being of Seireitei and Soul Society is at stake. The only power the CaptainCommander answers to is the Central 46 Chambers, who elect the successor of the current Captain-Commander in the event of their death.[8]The former holder of this title is Captain Genrysai Shigekuni Yamamoto of the 1st Division, who had held this post for the last 1000 years.[9] The current Captain-Commander is Shunsui Kyraku.[8] A Captain (, Taich; lit. Unit Commander) is the leader of one of the thirteen divisions (with the special case of the Captain-Commander).

Captains are generally the most respected Shinigami within the Soul Society, with the leaders of the Kid Corps and Onmitsukid possibly being on equal status. With one exception, all captains are able to utilize the final stage of their Zanpakut, and are far more powerful than even their lieutenants. Knowing Bankai gives captains an average of five-to-ten times the strength of Shinigami who are unable to perform it.[10] They have extensively trained, if not mastered, their Bankai, allowing them to use the enormous power effectively in battle. Most captains are skilled in the use of Shunpo and Kid, and generally have extensive knowledge of Shinigami history and battle tactics. All of these factors create a vast power gap between captains and lower-ranked officers.

They function as Chief executive officers, and they determine the course, organization, tactics, and policy of their division. The power a captain has over his/her division is absolute and cannot be questioned by subordinates or the captains of the other divisions. A captain can choose to change the division specialty (which Kisuke Urahara did upon becoming captain of the 12th Division). Due to captains having supreme authority in their respective division, the divisions are separate entities and not a cohesive military. In this way, they only have the right to punish the actions of their subordinates and not those of other divisions. unless the division in question has no current captain or the subordinate's actions are against the laws or rules of Soul Society. The true power of Soul Society lies in the captains of the Gotei 13, as they are the leaders of its military arm. With them at full strength, Soul Society is safe and almost unbeatable. If they are broken, their strength dwindles, making them highly vulnerable. There are three different ways to become a Gotei 13 captain:[11] 1. Captain Proficiency Test (, taishu): A test which requires the ability to perform Bankai. Nearly all Shinigami become captains using this method. At least three existing captains, including the Captain-Commander, have to witness the test. 2. Personal Recommendation: To have personal recommendations from at least six captains and approval from at least three of the remaining seven. 3. Trial by Combat: To defeat a captain one-on-one with at least 200 witnesses from the captain's division. This method is seen as being the exceedingly rarest and the least refined of the three. The method is commonly looked down upon by some captains as barbaric compared to the other refined methods. This method allows one to bypass having the mastery of Bankai or other possible abilities which a captain would otherwise be required to have knowledge of, for it allows no judgment from captains who would require those skills as a prerequisite to join their ranks. Though rare in other Divisions, the Eleventh Division has been set up to exclusively utilize this method, with each captain attaining their rank by killing the predecessor.[12] Lieutenant

A Lieutenant (, fukutaich; Viz "Assistant Captain"; vice-unit commander, often translated as vice-captain) is the 2nd seated officer in a division.[13]

Lieutenants function as executive officers for their division, taking care of or supervising day-to-day operations. Along with their captains, they are not assigned to one specific squad. They generally only know the Shikai of their Zanpakut, but are still the second strongest in their division. In the case of a division captain's death, departure, or other circumstances making him unable to perform their duties, the lieutenant acts as the "substitute captain" until another can be assigned. The authority to appoint or dismiss a lieutenant lies solely with the captain of the respective division, a privilege which was granted to them with the support of the Central 46 Chambers. Captains reserve the right to appoint multiple lieutenants at a single time, though this is rarely done due to it being both

considered highly unorthodox and heavily frowned upon by the Central 46 Chambers. [14] Though rarely exercised, any potential candidate retains the right to decline the nomination.[15] Seated Officers Seated officers are the remainder of the officers in the Gotei 13 which hold ranks at or below 3rd Seat. Captains and lieutenants have the ranks of 1st and 2nd Seats, respectively. Next to that, there are 18 more seats (3rd-20th). In the Gotei 13, only one person can hold a senior officer rank (such as 3rd or 5th seat), but there are several holders of junior officer ranks (e.g. 20th seat). This varies from division to division, for there are two 3rd Seats in the 13th Division. Seated officers often lead sub-units within each division (for example, 7th seat Hanatar Yamada is leader of the 4th Division's 14th Advanced Relief Team). Divisions 1st Division Captain Shunsui Kyraku Insignia Chrysanthemums 2nd Division Captain Su-Fng Insignia Pasque flower 3rd Division Captain Lieutenant 3rd Seat Lieutenant Marechiyo maeda Insignia Signifies Seek Nothing 3rd Seat N/A Division Color Dark Orange Lieutenant Nanao Ise & Genshir Okikiba Insignia Signifies Truth and Innocence

Rjr toribashi Insignia Marigold 4th Division Captain Vacant Insignia

Izuru Kira Insignia Signifies Despair

Rik Togakushi Division Color Spring Green (Magic Mint)

Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu Insignia Signifies Those Who Grieve Are Loved

3rd Seat Yasochika Iemura Division Color

Bellflower

Puce (Dusky Pink)

5th Division Captain Shinji Hirako Insignia Lily of the Valley 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki Insignia Camellia Lieutenant Renji Abarai Insignia Signifies Noble Reason 3rd Seat N/A Division Color Cobalt Blue Lieutenant Momo Hinamori Insignia Signifies Sacrifice, Danger, Pure Love, Humility, Sweetness

7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura Insignia Iris 8th Division Captain Vacant Insignia Strelitzia (Bird of Paradise) 9th Division Captain Kensei Muguruma Insignia White poppy 10th Division Captain Tshir Hitsugaya Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto 3rd Seat N/A Lieutenant Shhei Hisagi & Mashiro Kuna Insignia Signifies Oblivion Lieutenant Vacant Insignia Signifies Everything is Obtained Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba Insignia Signifies Courage 3rd Seat N/A Division Color Dark Tan

Insignia Daffodil 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki Insignia Yarrow 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi Insignia Thistle 13th Division Captain Jshir Ukitake Insignia Snowdrop Others

Insignia Signifies Mystery, Egoism

Division Color Dark Green

Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi Insignia Signifies Fight

3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame Division Color Lavender

Lieutenant Nemu Kurotsuchi Insignia Signifies Vengeance, Strictness, Independence

Lieutenant Rukia Kuchiki Insignia Signifies Hope

3rd Seat Kiyone Kotetsu & Sentar Kotsubaki Division Color Maroon

This is a list of Shinigami with an unknown rank.

Zennosuke Kurumadani - Rukia's replacement as watcher of Karakura Town. He is a member of the 13th Division; which is charged with protecting Karakura Town. His rank is unknown. Eikichir Said - A Shinigami sent to find and question Rukia in Karakura Town. He is a member of the Onmitsukid. His rank is unknown. Ashido Kan - A Shinigami who was stranded in the Forest of Menos in Hueco Mundo. Baishin - A former Shinigami who was sealed away after going on a rampage.

Transferring to Another Division Officers do not necessarily serve in their assigned division for life. It is customary to be transferred to another division after gaining some experience, an event which often coincides with a promotion.[16] Size and Recruitment Each Division is made up of just over 200 Shinigami, with the Gotei 13's standing force being just around 3000 total enlisted troops.[5] The Shinigami are typically recruited through the Shinigami Academy, but it must be noted not all graduates make it into the Gotei 13.[5] Graduates from the Academy are required to take an entrance exam for the Gotei 13, and only those who pass are allowed to join.[17] This exam can be taken multiple times.[17] Insignia Each of the 13 divisions in Gotei 13 have their own symbol which represents the division's primary role. When a power limit is placed on a captain or lieutenant, their symbol appears on a certain part of their body until the limit is lifted. Each symbol has a specific meaning.

The Gotei 13 Insignias. Uniforms Most Gotei 13 personnel wear the standard Shinigami uniform, called Shihakush (, Garment of Dead Souls) - a white shitagi (, under clothing), a black kosode (, small sleeve), a

black hakama (), a whitehakama-himo, white tabi (, foot pouch), and waraji (). The black kosode has its owner's division insignia emblazoned on the inside. Lieutenants sometimes wear an armband which carries their division symbol and its number, usually on their left arm. They are required to do this when they are summoned to a meeting, but apart from this, it is rarely compulsory.[18] Captains wear a white haori () over the usual black Shinigami clothes, with the number of their division on the back inside the Gotei 13 symbol (a rhombus). Some captains have long sleeves, while the others do not. The color of the underside is division--or at least captain--specific, for every captain has a different color of it. Uniform Customization Gotei 13 officers, particularly captains and lieutenants, often customize their personal appearance or that of their uniform. Some of these modifications include:

Captain Shunsui Kyraku of the 1st Division wears a straw hat and a gaudilycolored kimono (, thing to wear) over his uniform. Captain Su-Fng of the 2nd Division wears a sleeveless and backless Shinigami outfit (when she is fighting) under her haori, which is standard issue for the head of the Onmitsukid. She wears a yellow sash a layer above, but slightly lower than her white one. Captain Retsu Unohana of the 4th Division wears an obi (, , sash) rather than a standard sash. Captain Byakuya Kuchiki of the 6th Division wears an expensive scarf named Ginpaku Kazahana no Uzuginu (, Silks of the Silverwhite Wildflower) and a white ceremonial hairpiece calledkenseikan (, Star-Pulling Insert), symbolizing his noble lineage. 17 months after Aizen's defeat, he wears a finely crafted captain's haori. Captain Sajin Komamura of the 7th Division wears shoulder guards over his haori and large gloves which go up to his arms. He used to wear a helmet to hide his appearance, but he has removed it. Captain Kaname Tsen, formerly of the 9th Division, wears an orange scarf with his outfit, a sleevelesskosode, and white boots. Captain Kensei Muguruma of the 9th Division wears a sleeveless kosode. Captain Tshir Hitsugaya of the 10th Division wears a green sash pinned with a star around his shoulder to hold his sword. Captain Kenpachi Zaraki of the 11th Division wears a jagged edged haori, which was taken from theprevious captain of the 11th Division.

Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi of the 12th Division wears a bloated purple cravat and a hat decorated with two horizontal spikes. He later changes the hat. Lieutenant Chjir Sasakibe of the 1st Division wears a jinbaori over his shihakush. Lieutenant Marechiyo maeda of the 2nd Division wears a large purple collar behind his head. Lieutenant Shhei Hisagi of the 9th Division wears a sleeveless kosode and black choker. Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto of the 10th Division wears a top which is deliberately loose and hangs open to reveal her ample bosom. She wears a pink scarf (or stole), and wears her lieutenant's badge around her waist with her sash, tied in a bow. Lieutenant Nemu Kurotsuchi of the 12th Division wears no hakama, instead wearing a miniskirt version of the kosode which is belted at the waist. Lieutenant Rukia Kuchiki of the 13th Division wears a short sleeved version of the shihakush. She wears fingerless white tekkou, similar to Byakuya's, which extend past her elbows. 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa of the 11th Division wears an orange piece of clothing on top of his uniform around the neck connected to his arm, which covers most of his chest which would otherwise be exposed by his uniform. All known members of the 9th Division, excluding Mashiro Kuna and Toshimori Umesada, wear kosodewithout sleeves, including the former captains.

Royal Guard
Royal Guard

Kanji

Romaji Organization Founder(s) Headquarters Leader(s)

zokutokumu

Unknown Soul King Palace None

Kirio Hikifune, Ichibei Senior Member(s) Hysube,Senjumaru Shutara, Tenjir Kirinji,etsu Nimaiya Affiliation Soul King, Soul Society Protecting the Soul King, the Royal Family and the Royal Palace

Purpose

The Royal Guard (, zokutokumu; translated as "Royal Special Task Force" in the English dub, literally translated as "King Subordinate Secret Service") also known as the Zero Division (, Zerobantai), is an organization that is dedicated to the protection of the Soul King, the Royal Family, and the Soul King Palace. Contents [show] Overview The Royal Guard is a special organization that performs services for the Royal Family. It has a considerable amount of fighting, organizational, and executive power compared to other organizations.[1] They are also charged with slaying Menos Grande, though the circumstances under which they do so are unknown.[2] Since serving the royal family is the primary purpose of the Royal Guard, they don't interfere in Gotei 13's affairs and the defense of Soul Society, as seen with major threats like Aizenand his Arrancar.[3] They are known to do whatever is required by order of the Soul King.[4]

The Royal Guards authority supersedes the authority of all within Soul Society.[5] Each member of the Royal Guard have had the power of the ken imparted onto their bones by the Soul King.[6] They also each have a city of their own at the Soul King Palace.[7] History Due to their status as a secret organization, the history and very existence of the Royal Guard is not commonly known.[8] Mission The Royal Guard serves as guardians with the primary responsibilities of:

Protecting the Soul King. Protecting the Royal Family. Protecting the Royal Palace.[9] Slaying Menos class Hollows.[2]

Transportation The Royal Guard commonly stays within the Soul King Palace, but when they do travel, their preferred method of transportation is a huge pillar called the Tenchren (, Heavenly-Pillar Palanquin). This pillar enters from the inner dimension and lands with significant force upon its arrival.[10] The Tenchren, however, does not have the ability to return to the palace on its own, and relies on Kkaku Shiba's cannon to launch it back.[11]etsu Nimaiya also has the ability to open a portal within the Soul King Palace that can send someone directly to the Human World.[12] Someone can be returned to the Soul King Palace if the Chkaimon (, Super World Gate) is opened, but it can only be opened by syncing the arrival and departure times.[13] They are able to take stairs down to the Seireitei, though it will take anywhere from half a day to a week of travel to get there.[14] Organization The Royal Guard is known to promote former captains of the Gotei 13 to their ranks.[8] The Royal Guard has no soldiers, and it only has 5 members, all of which are former Captains. Their total power far surpasses the power of all the 13 Divisions together.[15] Admittance All the members of the Royal Guard, were Shinigami acknowledged by the Soul King to have made significant contributions to the history of Soul Society.[16] Notable Members

Royal Guard

Title

Name

Former Division

Creation

Hot Spring Demon

Tenjir Kirinji

Unknown

Healing Springs

Ruler of Grain

Kirio Hikifune

12th Division

Artificial soul

God of the Sword

etsu Nimaiya

Unknown

Zanpakut

Great Weave Guard

Senjumaru Shutara

Unknown

Unknown

Monk of Perception

Ichibei Hysube

Unknown

Unknown

Insignia Like the divisions of the Gotei 13, the Royal Guard also has a unique symbol that represents the division's primary role, which is in its case based upon the Winter Daphne (, Jinchge). This symbol is placed inside the Gotei 13 symbol of a rhombus to form the division's complete insignia, which is displayed upon each member's haori.[17]

Central 46

Central 46

Kanji English Romaji Organization Headquarters Affiliation Purpose

Central Forty-Six Ch Shijroku

Central 46 Compound Soul Society Judiciary authority

The Central 46 (, Ch Shijroku) is an organization that serves as the judiciary authority of the Soul Society. Operating under a mandate from the Soul King, the influence Central 46 goes well beyond the boundaries of a judiciary authority and into those of legislative and operative authorities. Contents [show] Overview The Central 46 is comprised of forty wise men, gathered from all over the Soul Society, and six judges. These men are in charge of trying all Shinigami crimes, whether they were committed in Soul Society or the Human World. The Central 46 are also within their jurisdiction to order the use of deadly force by the Gotei 13, the Onmitsukid or the Kid Corps. Once a decision has been made, it is rarely overturned.[1]While Soul Society has its own royal family and king, they reside within a distinct dimension outside of Soul Society and their rule is not felt by Soul Society's residents. The Central 46 receive a mandate from the Soul King to act in his place and so are considered for all intents and purposes as the royal and the ruling class of Soul Society.[2]However, the Central 46 have no jurisdiction over the Royal Guard or the Shin' Academy.[3] Upon their deaths at the hands of Ssuke Aizen during

the Ryoka Invasion, Captain-Commander Yamamoto has taken over their normal duties. Some time later, the Central 46 is reassembled and is shown performing its judiciary duties.[4] After the Wandenreich's attack on Seireitei and the death of Captain-Commander Yamamoto, the Central 46 appoints Captain Shunsui Kyraku to take over the position of Captain-Commander of the Gotei 13 and be the new captain of the 1st Division.[5] When Kyraku later meets with the Central 46, they debate and argue with his decisions to have both Nanao Ise and Genshir Okikiba serve as colieutenants as well as his first major decision as Captain-Commander to have Captain Kenpachi Zaraki trained in Zanjutsu. They ultimately have no choice but to accept Kyraku's decision, given the preexisting rule of Gotei 13 captains being allowed to appoint their lieutenants and because of Soul Society's current inability to survive yet another invasion by the Wandenreich.[6] Residence The residencial district of the Central 46 is an enclave in Seireitei called Seijtkyorin (, Tranquil Forest of Residential Towers) inside the Central 46 Compound. This enclave is forbidden for entry to anyone, regardless of their military or civilian status.[7] Proceedings

The Central 46 during Aizen's Trial. The proceedings take place in the underground assembly hall within theCentral 46 Compound. Each of the Central 46 has a plaque with a number on it obscuring his face. These plaques are the only means to identify individual members. Investigations will be held by the Onmitsukid in secret, at the behest of the 46. Defendants will not be told exactly what it is they are accused of until sentencing, nor what the source of the accusation was; they are only allowed to speak when they answer the questions addressed to them and will only rarely, if ever, given a chance to speak for themselves. The evidence is deemed far more important than any testimony.[8] The Central 46 has very little patience to breaches of protocol. Wanton disregard for the proceedings or contempt of the Central 46 will more than likely bring added charges or sentence.[4] Laws

It is against the law for a Shinigami to give their spiritual power to Humans.[9] It is against the law for a Shinigami to use forbidden Kid.[10] It is against the law for any citizen of Soul Society to create weapons of a dangerous nature not sanctioned by the feudal government. To do so is treason.[11]

It is against the law to attack a captain. To do so is treason. It is against the law to commit terrorist action(s) or attempt overthrow of the balance of Soul Society. To do so is treason. It is against the law to commit murder. It is against the law to kill a Human that a Shinigami has not been ordered to kill.[12] It is forbidden for a Shinigami to acquire or attempt to gain Hollow-like powers.[13] It is against the law for the Gotei 13 to meddle in the affairs of the noble families unless the family in question breaks one of the laws of Soul Society beyond a shadow of a doubt. It is a crime for a Shinigami to remain in the Human World longer than a certain time limit.[14]

Known Rulings

Tessai Tsukabishi was tried for the use of forbidden Kid. He was sentenced to a life imprisoned in the third level of the underground prison called Shugo.[15] Kisuke Urahara was tried for the crimes of conducting forbidden experiments, deceiving his colleagues and causing grievous injury. He was sentenced to be stripped of his powers and eternally banished to the Human world.[15] Shinji Hirako and the other Visored were to be dealt with as Hollows, since they have acquired Hollow powers, albeit unwillingly.[16] Rukia Kuchiki was tried in her absence for over staying the time limit in the Human world and for transferring her powers to a Human. She was sentenced to death by Skyoku.[17] It was later revealed that the entire proceeding, starting with the order for her arrest, was orchestrated by Ssuke Aizen.[18]

Ran'Tao was tried for her pivotal role in the creation of the Bounts, and was subsequently stripped of her Shinigami powers and exiled from Seireitei after aiding the Bounts' escape into the Human World.[19]

Makoto Kibune was tried for injuring a Shinigami during a fight with a Hollow.[20] Genrysai Shigekuni Yamamoto was denied by Central 46 to do any investigation on the Kasumiji Clan Compound.[21]

Ssuke Aizen was tried for the crime of high treason, as well as a long list of other crimes. He was sentenced to 18,800 years in the 8th and lowest level of the underground prison called Muken. Because of his outburst, his sentence was aggravated to 20,000 years.[4] Other Rulings

Nest of Maggots: Detention in the Nest of Maggots is a punishment less known among the citizens of Soul Society and even the ranks of Shinigami. It is commonly reserved for high-level Shinigami who have either broken the law, quit the Gotei 13 or were otherwise deemed dangerous and mentally unstable (as per the government's interpretation). One well known inmate of the Nest of Maggots was Mayuri Kurotsuchi. The sentence is carried out by the detention unit of the Onmitsukid, formerly headed by Kisuke Urahara.[22] Spirit-Sealing Pit: The spirit-sealing pit is an ancient form of execution in which Shinigami criminals are thrown into a pit walled with Sekkiseki a type of stone that absorbs spiritual power, preventing those nearby from using their powers. Hollows are then thrown into the pit with the criminals as the means of execution. The practice was considered too barbaric and was discontinued.[23] The pits themselves were converted into garbage dumps.[24] Appearances in Other Media

The Central 46 played a role in Bleach: The DiamondDust Rebellion. They tried Sjir Kusaka and Tshir Hitsugaya with possessing the same Zanpakut, stating that it was ancient law that two Shinigami cannot hold the same Zanpakut, and that they must fight for the honor of bearing the spirit, with the spirit going to the winner, and the loser being executed. As per the law, Sjir and Tshir were ordered to duel for the honor of the Zanpakut. Tshir won and Sjir was executed by the Onmitsukid.[25]

Espada
Espada

Kanji Romaji Organization Headquarters Affiliation

, () Esupda

Las Noches, Hueco Mundo Ssuke Aizen's Arrancar Army High-ranking members in Ssuke Aizen's Arrancar Army

Purpose

The Espada (, (), Esupda; Spanish for "Sword", Japanese for "Ten Blades") are the toprankedArrancar in Ssuke Aizen's army of Hollow-Shinigami hybrids; they are the most powerful Hollows under Aizen's command, and they are the main rivals of the Gotei 13. Contents

[show] Outline The Espada are composed of ten Arrancar with exemplary strength. Members of the Espada are given a number 0-9[1][2]Each Espada has a tattoo with their number somewhere on them, such as Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez, whose tattoo is on his lower back,[3] and Coyote Starrk, whose tattoo is on the back of his left hand.[4] Along with Ssuke Aizen, Gin Ichimaru, andKaname Tsen, the Espada as a group possess comparable strength to Soul Society's Gotei 13 Shinigami captains.[5] Their immense amount of power and leadership status among the Arrancar also grants each Espada the authority to exert command over Aizen's other forces within Las Noches: theNmeros, the Exequias,[6] and their own Fraccin, chosen by them from the Nmeros. Similar to the power gap between captains and lieutenants in the Gotei 13, the strength of the Espada far surpasses that of the average Nmero. Aizen himself is confident enough of his Espada's abilities to send them out on potentially hazardous missions, such as gathering information in the Real World, fighting Shinigami captains inside Las Noches and Karakura Town by themselves,[7][8] and searching for Vasto Lorde.[9]

The Espada all together at a meeting called by Aizen. Being Aizen's most direct subordinates (not counting Gin Ichimaru and Kaname Tsen), the Espada are privy to several of Aizen's plans and most intimate secrets, such as his goals of destroying Karakura Town and creating the ken, and the location of the Hgyoku within Las Noches[10]. Aizen's respect for the Espada's abilities is reflected in his manner of addressing them, often referring to them as "my dear Espada"[11] and sitting at the head of the same table with them while discussing the events around Hueco Mundo.[12] According to Dordoni Alessandro Del Socaccio, though Aizen treats them as tools to do his bidding, he wanted to take back his position as an Espada to once again be close to Aizen.[13] In accordance with this, Aizen was not at all distressed over the deaths of the Espada, and calmly congratulated the intruders in Las Noches for their victories against the Espada as he left for Karakura Town.[14] There seems to be a sort of hierarchy among the Espada; a higher-ranked member apparently can give orders to lower-ranked members. This is demonstrated when Aizen orders Ulquiorra Cifer to kidnap Orihime Inoue and Ulquiorra takes a team of lower-ranked Espada with him.[15] Various missions usually involve one or more Espada operating together, with the most senior member exercising command over the others.[16] While the lower-ranked members usually have little restraint in taking their own initiative (thus exceeding their orders), higher-ranked members usually stick to Aizen's commands, and are often the first to bail the others out of trouble, because, according to Nelliel

Tu Odelschwanck, they wish to prevent the Espada from losing one of their own.[17] However, Aizen's attitude toward the offending Espada members seem to be one of leniency, officially forgiving them (though not without severe sanctions) on the grounds that they are merely advancing his own wishes.[18] Aside from regularly appearing in Aizen's throne room and the debriefing room, the Espada are known to have their own quarters within Las Noches. Those that have been seen appear to have been modified to suit the specific Espada's taste. Szayelaporro Granz, for instance, possesses a large building that he refers to as his "palace", complete with a hidden, indestructible laboratory and a changing room.[19] Zommari Rureaux has been shown on one occasion to await orders inside a meditation room.[20] Coyote Starrk's room is designed along the lines of a lounging chamber,[21] and Aaroniero Arruruerie's tower, accessed via a hanging bridge, effectively keeps out sunlight and contains nooks and crannies for hiding cushions and other implements whose purpose is to make his shape-shifting abilities more convincing.[22] According to Ulquiorra, any Espada ranked 4th or higher are not allowed to release their Zanpakut within Aizen's palace, as their Resurreccins are powerful enough to destroy the majority of Las Noches.[23] After Aizen's defeat and the deaths of Starrk and Baraggan Louisenbairn, Tier Harribel became the ruler ofHueco Mundo.[24][25] However, an empire called the Wandenreich appeared, and she was personally defeated by Yhwach and captured. The Quincy empire claimed Hueco Mundo as their dominion, as well as another foundation stone to invade Soul Society.[26][25] History The creation of the Espada has long been one of Aizen's most important preoccupations. While it is not specified when the Espada were first brought together as a group, the original Espada were already in existence sometime before Aizen's defection from the Soul Society and acquisition of the Hgyoku. Since then, the composition of the Espada has changed, both in membership and position. At some point in the past Nnoitra Gilga was the 8th Espada with Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck as the 3rd Espada and Szayelaporro was not a member at all. During this time Aizen frequently sent the Espada out to search for the Vasto Lorde-class Menos. Before his death, Aaroniero Arruruerie was the sole member of the current Espada who was also part of the first-generation Espada. He was also the only Arrancar from Gillian-class Menos stock to attain a position among the Espada. Notable Members Espada

Rank

Name

Zanpakut

Tattoo Location

Aspect of Death

Cero (0)

Yammy Llargo (PostIra Release) Coyote Starrk & Lilynette Gingerbuck(PostRelease) Baraggan Louisenbairn Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck Tier Harribel

Left Shoulder

Rage

Primera (1st)

Los Lobos

Back Side of Left Hand(Starrk only)

Solitude

Segunda (2nd)

Arrogante

Unknown

Aging (Time)

Tres (3rd)

Gamuza

Mid Back

Unknown

Tres (3rd) Cuatro (4th) Quinto (5th)

Tiburn

Left side of right breast

Sacrifice

Ulquiorra Cifer

Murcilago Left pectoral muscle

Emptiness

Nnoitra Gilga

Santa Teresa Trepadora

Tongue

Despair

Sexta (6th) Luppi Antenor Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez

Right Hip

Unknown

Sexta (6th)

Pantera

Right side, lower back

Destruction

Sptima (7th) Octava (8th) Noveno (9th) Demotion

Zommari Rureaux

Brujera

Unknown

Intoxication

Szayelaporro Granz

Fornicars

Unknown

Madness

Aaroniero Arruruerie Glotonera

Top head: 3/4 of head Bottom head: 1/2 of head

Greed

Privaron Espada

Kanji Romanji

Puribaron Esupda

Additional Information Primary Power Notable Members

Resurreccin

Dordoni Alessandro Del Socaccio,Cirucci Sanderwicci, Gantenbainne Mosqueda

An Espada may be demoted from the group either when they lose strength or cease to be useful to Aizen, such as Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez after his left arm was cut off by Kaname Tsen. In most cases, they will be demoted to the Privaron Espada ( (), puribaron esupda; Spanish for "Deprived Sword", Japanese for "Ten Fallen Blades"), who are former Espada that have officially lost their rank and are assigned a three-digit number. Privaron Espada The Privaron Espada are former Espada who have officially lost their rank and are assigned a three-digit number. Being former Espada, they are far stronger than the normal Nmeros. They reside in Tres Cifras ( (), toresu shifurasu; Japanese for "Three-digit", Spanish for "Three Digits"). As mentioned by Dordoni Alessandro Del Socaccio, these former "naturally created" Espada were rendered obsolete after Aizen began artificially creating Arrancar to meet his own standards.[27]

Espada exclusive Powers & Techniques

Caja Negacin ( (), kaha negashion; Spanish for "Negation Box", Japanese for "Anti-Membrane of Negation") is a variant of the Gillian-exclusive ability Negacin used to punish Arrancar subordinates by trapping them eternally in an alternate dimension. However, should the Caja Negacin be used on an Espada, the Espada will eventually break out of the alternate dimension (usually within a few hours), due to their large amount of Reiatsu. Gran Rey Cero ( (), guran rei sero; Spanish for "Grand King Zero", Japanese for "Royal Hollow Flash") is a very strong Cero. To perform this potent variation of the Cero, the Arrancar first draws blood from the Cero-generating appendage using their Zanpakut, then charges the Cero while mixing the blood with it. The result is a Cero with a much greater attack power and speed, as well as a change of color unique to the Espada. This attack was first used by Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez in order to incite Ichigo Kurosaki into donning his Hollow mask. Grimmjow refers to it as, "the ultimate Cero". According to Ulquiorra Cifer, it is forbidden for any of the Espada to perform Gran Ray Cero within Las Noches, as it could possibly destroy most of the enormous building.

Trivia

While he is not an Espada, Wonderweiss Margela is classified with Espada-level spiritual energy by Soul Society.[28]

Privaron Espada Rank Name Zanpakut Tattoo Location Aspect of Death

103rd 105th 107th

Dordoni Alessandro Del Socaccio Cirucci Sanderwicci Gantenbainne Mosqueda

Giralda Golondrina Dragra

Unknown Unknown Unknown

Unknown Unknown Unknown

Visored
Visored

Kanji Romanji

() Vaizdo

Additional Information Primary Power Notable Members

Hollow Mask, Zanpakut

Clockwise from the top center are: Shinji Hirako, Rjr toribashi, Mashiro Kuna, Love Aikawa, Hiyori Sarugaki, Lisa

Yadmaru, Hachigen Ushda, andKensei Muguruma. center: Ichigo Kurosaki. The Visored ( (), kamen no gunzei (vaizdo); Japanese for "Masked Army"; Viz: Vizard) is a group ofShinigami that have acquired Hollow powers. Following the battle at the Fake Karakura Town, they have become central combatants against Ssuke Aizen's Espada and Aizen himself. Contents [show] Overview The Visored are the antithesis to the Arrancar as Shinigami who have obtained Hollow powers.[1] Having begun as Shinigami, the Visored appear entirely Humanand, barring those times where they are using their powers, are indistinguishable from ordinary Shinigami. To gain access to their Hollow powers, a Visored dons a Hollow mask. This allows them to augment their Shinigami abilities with Hollow powers, as well as giving them access to some of the more generic Hollow abilities. Their spiritual pressure likewise changes into a mix of Hollow and Shinigami. This process of donning one's Hollow mask is referred to as Hollowfication.[2] Visored have been shown to be former captain and lieutenant level Shinigami. They are considered criminals by the Soul Societyfor committing the ultimate taboo of acquiring Hollow powers; their status as former leaders of Soul Society also marks them as traitors.[3] During their introduction, they are viewed as reclusive and are thought to have loyalty only to themselves, for it was unknown what role they would take in the upcoming battle in the fake Karakura Town. However, they are still considered to be valuable allies in the war against Ssuke Aizen's army of Arrancar, according to Kisuke Urahara.[4] The Visored haven't shown any sort of hierarchy, preferring a loose-knit organization. Their intentions are finally revealed when they arrive at the Battle of the Fake Karakura Town. Even after the events that made them outlaws by Soul Society 100 years ago, the Visored bear no ill will toward the Gotei 13, but they prefer not to consider themselves allies of the former organization they belonged to either. Instead, they expressively confirm themselves enemies of Aizen, and by extension, the Espada, and state that they are allies of Ichigo Kurosaki.[5] History Turn Back the Pendulum arc

Group image of the Visored. The Visored, as they appear 100 years ago (top) and present time (bottom). From left to right : Hachi, Love, Kensei, Hiyori, Shinji, Lisa, Rose, and Mashiro. Around 100 years before the current storyline, people in Soul Society started to disappear, but more than simple death, there were no bodies found; only the victims' clothes remained.[6] The situation caused a great uproar in the Gotei 13 as investigative groups were sent out and not heard from again. Due to this, the 9th Division's command structure took it upon themselves to investigate the situation: Kensei Muguruma, then-captain of the Ninth Division, Mashiro Kuna, his lieutenant at the time, and their subordinates (comprising the 3rd to 6th Seats).[7] They were all mysteriously cut down by a then-unknown assailant that succeeded in taking them all by surprise using some unknown method. [8] When their Reiatsu disappeared in a manner similar to the previous disappearances, the Gotei 13 became worried and sent out a new investigation team personally hand picked by CaptainCommander Yamamototo see what had happened. Captains Shinji Hirako of the 5th Division, Love Aikawa of the 7th Division andRjr toribashi of the 3rd Division, along with the Kid Corps' lieutenant Hachigen Ushda and Kyraku's lieutenant Lisa Yadmaru, all set out to find the missing Shinigami.[9] Urahara's lieutenant, Hiyori Sarugaki was already on her way to collect samples of the disappearance site per Urahara's request. [10] When the group finally arrived they found Hiyori and then themselves under attack by a Hollowfied Kensei and Mashiro.[11] Even while working as a team they were overpowered by the brutal attacks from the former fellow Shinigami. When Hachi arrived, he bound Mashiro and Kensei using Kid.[12] Hiyori, now being held by Shinji, begins to succumb to the Hollowfication process and attacks Shinji without warning.[13] The others were then surrounded by a pitch black darkness that also rendered them unable to sense each other, where they were systematically cut down. After the darkness is lifted Shinji is the only one still conscious to see that it was allKaname Tsen, Kensei's 6th Seat, using his Bankai against them.[14] Shinji tried to question Tsen about the betrayal of his captain while he and the others were going through various stages of Hollowfication. Aizen, Shinji's lieutenant, then shows up with Gin Ichimaru, Shinji's 3rd Seat in tow, explaining that he was following his orders.[15] Aizen begins to explain how he was behind it all and that he had been manipulating Shinji from the start using his Zanpakut's special ability.[16] He then gave Tsen permission to get rid of Hiyori, whom he attacked. Shinji, who refused to go down without a fight, engaged in combat with Tsen. He initially gained the upper hand due to the increase in his power, but eventually succumbed more to the Hollowfication process. Aizen prepared to

attack him, but was stopped by the timely arrival of the cloaked 12th Division Captain Kisuke Urahara and Kid Captain Tessai Tsukabishi.[17] Plot In order to regain his Shinigami powers after being stripped of them, Ichigo Kurosaki has his Chain of Fatesevered by Tessai Tsukabishi under orders from Kisuke Urahara in order to force him to regain his lost power before becoming a Hollow.[18][19] Ichigo is only able to succeed once he begins transforming into a Hollow. Ichigo's transformation happens out of sequence, his mask forming first instead of his body breaking apart and reforming, a sign of his resistance to becoming a Hollow, and he emerges as a Shinigami wearing a Hollow's mask, which he breaks off.[20] After he arrived in Soul Society, the Hollow mask reappears on his person on several occasions, even though he repeatedly discarded it, to block mortal and fatal blows.[21][22] In his fight against Byakuya Kuchiki, Ichigo's inner Hollow took some control of his body, causing his mask to reform around his face. Ichigo is able to regain control and tear off the mask before the transformation completes.[23] Arrancar arc Ichigo later discovers that there are other Shinigami who have acquired Hollow powers besides himself. Shinji Hirako, a "boy" carrying a Zanpakut and a Hollow mask, reveals that these renegade Shinigami call themselves the Visored.[24] Shinji tries to convince Ichigo to join their group, saying that only he can teach Ichigo how to control his Hollow form and keep it from taking over and destroying everything Ichigo cares about.[25] Ichigo initially refuses Shinji's offer, but relents after realizing he can't control his inner Hollow on his own. Ichigo insists that he's merely using them to learn how to control his inner Hollow.[26] To accomplish this task, Shinji uses Kid to knock Ichigo unconscious so he can face his inner Hollow on common ground. As this happens, Ichigo's body transforms into an uncontrollable Hollow form, which the Visored take turns fighting in order to keep it in check. Ichigo eventually manages to overcome and subdue his inner Hollow (in 62 minutes and 30 seconds)[27], and begins training with the Visored to have better control over his new powers. Ichigo abandons his training when the town is threatened, despite having little control over his new powers compared to the more experienced Visored.[28] It is later shown that the Visored are preparing for battle with unknown intentions.[29] Fake Karakura Town arc

The Visored as they intervene in the fight at the fake Karakura Town. When the Shinigami begin to lose their respective battles and the Arrancar begin to mount a comeback that culminates in Aizen's escape, the Visored appear on the battlefield. Shinji briefly greets Aizen in a

mocking manner, and then asks his fellow Visored if there is anyone in the Gotei 13 they would like to speak to. He ends up in a short argument with Hiyori, followed by the others expressing their disinterest in speaking to their former comrades, with the exception of Lisa, who flash steps away.[30] Shinji then approaches Yamamototo greet him, to which the commander asks if he has come for revenge. Shinji plainly tells him against Aizen, yes, but that he holds no such ambitions against the Gotei 13. Yamamoto asks Shinji if he is right to assume they are then allies, to which Shinji replies that they aren't. However, he clarifies that although they are not on the Gotei 13's side, they are against Aizen and are allies of Ichigo.[31] He then returns to the other Visored, who bring forth their masks when Hooleer spews forth a huge amount ofGillian class Menos from its mouth.[32] They then attack the Gillian, showing off each of their powers. Shinji, however, confronts Aizen and tells him it is time to finish this off.[33]. Before his attack can reach, Kaname Tsen slashes at Shinji before the latter starts fighting Gin Ichimaru. Mashiro is defeated by Wonderweiss Margela[34], who then battles Kensei[35], only to later leave the fight to attack Yamamoto, leaving Kensei's fate unknown. Hachi sacrifices one of his arms to defeat Baraggan and cannot use his powers to his fullest[36], and Hiyori is bifurcated by Gin after being enraged by one of Aizen's taunts[37]. Later, after Ichigo's return fromHueco Mundo, Shinji, Rose, Love and Lisa engage Aizen to protect Ichigo from his Shikai.[38] Aizen effortlessly cuts down Rose, Love and Lisa.[39] Shinji, along with Shunsui Kyraku, Su-Fng, and Tshir Hitsugaya, mistakenly think that they have finally killed Aizen[40], but it turns out to be an illusion that tricked them into stabbing Momo Hinamori[41]. When Shinji and the others try to stop an enraged Hitsugaya from charging at Aizen, the latter tells them that they're all wide open and defeats all of them with one slash each, sending Shinji and his comrades falling into the town.[42] With that, the only Visored still able to battle is Ichigo. The Lost Substitute Shinigami arc At some point after Aizen's defeat, Shinji, Rose, and Kensei rejoin the Gotei 13, resuming their former positions as Captains.[43] The Thousand-Year Blood War arc The rest of the Visored have decided to stay in the Human World, seemingly in Karakura Town.[44] Mashiro has been made Co-Lieutenant of the 9th Division alongside Shhei Hisagi. She calls herself the "Super Lieutenant", which she states is a superior position to Hisagi's. [45] Later, Hiyori gets into an argument with Shinji over ordering something, before Shinji hangs up on her. Hachi then arrives with a package, and Hiyori remarks on its speed of delivery. Hiyori looks at the contents of the package and decides to reluctantly accept the request to fix the distortion between Soul Society and the Human World, dragging her fellow Visored into the task with her.[46] Known Visored

There are eight known Visored aside from Ichigo Kurosaki. Five of them are men and the other three are women. Three Visored speak kansai-ben, a dialect spoken in Osaka and Kyoto. All Visored are former Shinigami captains or lieutenants from approximately 100 years before the main storyline. Ichigo Kurosaki is considered one of their number unofficially more or less by the group's admission. Since the loss of his powers and then regaining his Shinigami powers, Ichigo has not exhibited possession of Hollow powers and therefore is not currently considered one of the Visored. Visored Name Zanpakut Hollow Mask Picture

Shinji Hirako Sakanade

Double-mouthed Pharaoh mask with a shortflowing hood beneath the back of his neck

Love Aikawa Tengumaru

Traditional Ogre-shaped Oni mask with two small horns at its forehead

Rjr toribashi

Kinshara

Plague doctor mask; Unique in the sense that his protrudes from his face instead of being flat

Kensei Muguruma

Tachikaze

Flat hockey mask with six slitted eye holes in two columns and extensions that frame his head

Mashiro Kuna

Unknown

Grasshopper-shaped mask with two goggleshaped eyes, four slits in its mouth area, and small antenna

Hiyori Sarugaki

Kubikiri Orochi

Wide skull mask with a prominent horn centered on its forehead and a row of diamond-shaped markings over its eyebrows

Hachigen Ushda

Unknown

Traditional Balinese demon mask with tusks and feather-shaped spikes at the top of its head

Lisa Yadmaru

Haguro Tonbo

Diamond-shaped mask with a cross-shaped hole in the middle and its top tip bending over her head

Powers & Abilities

All Visored with their Hollow masks on. Hollow Mask: The Hollow mask which covers the head. Unlike the masks of the Arrancar, the masks of the Visoreds are undamaged.[47] The Visored remain in complete control while wearing their masks (unlike Ichigo's early unstable transformations). According to Aizen, the fusion of the two spiritual

entities allows these Shinigami to reach power levels far surpassing that of either a Hollow or a Shinigami.[48] The Visored use their Hollow powers to augment their existing Shinigami abilities, granting them massive increases in speed, stamina, and strength. The only known side effect in donning their Hollow masks is the specific time limit, which varies from user to user. Fortunately, there is a remedy to this problem: Training (but to what extent is currently unknown); Most of the Visored appear to have a limit of three minutes after a century of training,[49] while Ichigo has expanded his limit from 11 seconds to several minutes in a relatively short period of time, so the factors influencing the limits of the masks are still unclear. Every time their masks are used, the Visored's voices echo as a consequence of both their normal voice and their inner Hollow's voice speaking simultaneously.[50]

Enhanced Speed: Visored gain a great boost in their speed while Hollowfied. Kensei is able to throw a rapid amount of punches against a Gillian.[51] Enhanced Strength: The Visored have shown great strength while using their masks. Love was able to rip a Gillian class Menos in half with his bare hands after the Visored first arrived in the fake Karakura Town.[52] Cero: The Visored can fire Ceros just like the Arrancar. Though the origins of Arrancar and Visored differ, they may essentially be the same. Visored gain access to certain Hollow abilities, such as the Ceroblast; However, only Shinji[53], Hiyori[54] and Mashiro[55] have been seen using it. Power Augmentation: With the acquisition of the mask through the subjugation of one's inner Hollow, Visored gain access to an additional and separate source of power - aside from the Shinigami powers they already possess - Hollow powers. The accumulation of both powers greatly augments their powers beyond what a Shinigami and/or Hollow alone would be capable of.[48] Members of the Visored drastically increase their combat abilities by donning their masks and Hollowfying. The length of time they can remain Hollowfied varies with each person. Mask Protection: Body damage can seemingly be ignored while wearing their masks, as demonstrated by Ichigo's Hollow during his unwilling transformations.[56] Reiryoku Enhancement: Visored have dual spiritual power of both Shinigami and Hollow, which enhances their abilities. While watching Ichigo fight with Grimmjow, Tier Harribel noted that the volume and nature of Ichigo's spiritual power made it seem like she was watching a fight between two Espada.[57]Additionally, Ulquiorra Cifer commented that his Reiatsu was almost exactly like an Espada's.[58]

The Visored's Zanpakut function in the same manner as those of standard Shinigami. So far only Mashiro andHachigen have yet to release their Zanpakut.

Trivia

Although Ichigo dons his mask by "ripping" it from his face, other Visored appear to have different ways of summoning their Hollow mask (i.e. Hiyori musters it with mere thought[59], Hachi "slides" it on with one or both hands[60]). Most Visored tend to remove their masks to buy time for re-usage.[61]