Bleach Thousand-Year Blood War: A Review of Episode 9
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In Episode 9 of Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War, "The Drop," we see a striking contrast in tone and location. While Ichigo and Renji are enjoying a spa experience and indulging in delicious food at Kirio Hikifune's house, the Soul Society is facing the aftermath of the Sternritters' attack and the loss of Squad Captain Yamamoto. This contrast serves to both relieve and increase tension, as well as drop hints and revelations throughout the episode.
Part of the episode is set in the Soul King's palace, where healer Tenjiro Kirinji, the Hot Springs Demon, tends to Ichigo and Renji's injuries. Despite the seemingly wholesome setting, we see that the waters of the hot springs are so powerful that normal flesh would dissolve in them, and Ichigo's reflexes are so fast that he is able to shatter Tenjiro's hand with a punch. It's clear that things are not as they seem in this realm.
Kirio Hikifune, the Ruler of Grain, provides Ichigo and Renji with a feast that is infused with her own spiritual pressure. She reminds them that they are preparing for intense training in the hopes that they can survive their encounter with Oh-Etsu Nimaiya, the creator of the first Zanpakuto. Kirio sends them on their way, but not before warning them of the dangers ahead.
Back in the Soul Society, the newly appointed Head Captain, Shunsui Kyoraku, is making some tough decisions in the face of the Quincy attack. Despite the fear of betrayal, he believes that Kenpachi Zaraki needs to learn Zanjutsu in order to protect himself and others. He pleads his case before the Central 46, but is met with resistance. Despite this, he remains determined to do what he believes is necessary for the protection of the Soul Society.
In a shocking twist, we see a battle between Zaraki Kenpachi and Unohana Retsu, who have a history together. As it turns out, Unohana was the only person to ever wound Zaraki, and the scar on her chest pains her every time she hears his voice. Despite their past animosity, Zaraki is excited to fight her again due to his admiration for her strength. The battle between the two is intense and visually striking, with Unohana's flowing hair and robes in contrast to Zaraki's heavily notched sword.
As the battle rages on, Unohana reveals her true purpose: to kill and revive Zaraki until he becomes strong enough to defeat her. This training method seems to work, as Zaraki finds himself with a sword in hand once again despite losing it earlier in the fight. He is unaware of what has happened, but remains focused on the joy of battle.
The episode ends with a tease for the next one, simply titled "The Battle." With the threats facing Ichigo in the Soul King's palace and the intense battle between Zaraki and Unohana, it's clear that the next episode will be one to remember.
