Shūhei Hisagi (FC)

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This article, Shūhei Hisagi (FC), is part of Bleach: War for the King's Seal, which continues on from the opening segments of the site's former Fanon Canon project. Use of this page's contents is determined by the author of this page, unless otherwise specified.

Shūhei Hisagi
Name	Shūhei Hisagi
Kanji	檜佐木 修兵
Romaji	Hisagi Shūhei
Characteristics
Race	Soul
Birthday	August 14th
Age	Unknown
Gender	Male
Height	181 cm (5'11)
Weight	67 kg (148 lbs)
Blood Type	Unknown
Professional Status
Affiliation	Soul Society
Occupation	Shinigami, Captain
Previous Occupation	Lieutenant
Team	Ninth Division
Partner	Kenji Hiroshi
Previous Partner	Kaname Tōsen, Kensei Muguruma
Base of Operations	9th Division barracks, Seireitei
Personal Status
Marital Status	Single
Education	Shinō Academy
Status	Active
Zanpakutō
Shikai	Kazeshini
Bankai	Fushi no Kōjyō

Shūhei Hisagi (檜佐木 修兵, Hisagi Shūhei) is a Shinigami and current Captain of the 9th Division in the Gotei 13, as well as the Editor-in-Chief of Seireitei Communication. His Lieutenants are Kenji Hiroshi and Kei Yume. Historically, Hisagi was a Lieutenant under Captains Kaname Tōsen, Kensei Muguruma, and Kazuya Kuchiki, before then being promoted to the role of acting-Captain following an assault on the 9th Division that resulted in Kazuya's death. He was officially promoted to the rank of Captain in 2006. By 2013, he was also one of many laiasons attached to the Cultural Exchange Initiative.

Appearance

Hisagi is a tall and lean-built man with spiked black hair and eyes, one of which (his right) has three scars running down through the skin to his cheek, which he received during the last year of his tutelage at the Shinō Academy. During his Academy years he sported a much longer hairstyle, with the back approaching his neck and the front reaching just above his chin. In addition to these scars he sports two tattoos on his face, one of which is a blue-stripped band which runs over the bridge of his nose towards his left cheek, whilst the second tattoo comprises the numbers "69" (in homage to Kensei) which rests immediately below the latter on the left. Hisagi's tattoos and scars lend him an intimidating exterior at odds with his actual personality.

Like almost every member of the Ninth Division past and present, Hisagi wears a sleeveless kosode. Seventeen months after Aizen's defeat, Hisagi altered his hairstyle once again to more closely resemble his Academy days. When Hisagi became the acting-Captain of the 9th Division, he reinstated the Commando Unit previously established by Kensei. This included the style of dress typical to Kensei's unit, which included a sleeveless white haori with 9th Division emblazoned on the back, which gave him the overall appearance of a Captain years before he was properly promoted. Towards the end of October 2006, Hisagi received the news that his role as acting-Captain would be coming to an end, following a period of additional training and drills, ostensibly over months. He would adopt proper Captain's attire, favouring a sleeveless haori, soon after.

Personality

Hisagi has proven to be a serious, calm, mature, and virtuous individual, who manages to maintain a casual and approachable demeanour despite his harsh exterior, even in situations of extreme stress. In addition Hisagi is described as the ideal "template" for a Shinigami, being that he is low-born yet loyal to his superiors, faithful to orders given, and selfless enough to lay down his own life for the benefit of the Soul Society. Izuru Kira opined however that Hisagi has been subconsciously suppressing his negative emotions, and that this suppression is what gave rise to the dark nature of Hisagi's Zanpakutō. This nature is particularly prevalent whenever he actively engages in battle. Against Findorr Calius he continually attempted to instil a sense of fear into his opponent, pointedly telling the Arrancar that his Zanpakutō "resembles something that reaps lives". Hisagi was only content that Findorr was fighting him on even-footing when Findorr finally began to show visible fear of Hisagi's power.

The cover art of Breathless.

Due to the murder of Captain Kuchiki, Hisagi has found himself once more in the position of leading not only the 9th Division, but also Seireitei Communication. Between Captain's meetings, the editorial department, and assigning tasks to his Division, Hisagi is a man with little in the way of free time. When he does have a moments' respite he can either be found playing his guitar, enjoying a drink at Kei's bar, or causing a ruckus in the streets of Seireitei with an imported motorcycle. He is also an accomplished cook, and often becomes upset when it is assumed that he is not. He used to be a terrible guitarist but eventually learned how to properly play the instrument from Chad, and would later release his own CD called Breathless.

"As Hisagi stood his Zanpakutō transitioned into its Shikai form without a word from the man, and in those grey eyes was reflected the same resolve as when he cut down Captain Tōsen all those years ago."

—Excerpt from Back From the Dead: Kensei Muguruma!?^[src]

The loss of Tōsen at Hisagi's own hand, the death of Kensei, and the murder of Kazuya impacted Hisagi significantly. Even though he claimed he did not regret his role in Tōsen's death, or was affected adversely by Kensei's death, Hisagi nevertheless lost some confidence in himself. This loss of self-belief and resolve contributed to his turning down a Captaincy role, for he felt he did not live up to the example of Tōsen or Kensei. The forced revival and enslavement of Kensei by Samuru Asai for use as a military asset seemingly under the control of Sakae Kisaragi utterly infuriated Hisagi however, and served as the means that broke him out of his downwards spiral. When he fought Kensei alongside Captain Ōtoribashi, Hisagi's resolve was noted to have returned. The look in his eyes was exactly the same as the look he bore when he cut down Tōsen. This recovered resolve eventually paved the way for Hisagi to ascend to the role of Captain amongst the 9th Division.

Hisagi generally got on well with his colleagues. He had a great working relationship and friendship with Captain Ōtoribashi, based on their shared musical passion. Furthermore, he had a great working relationship with co-Lieutenants Kenji and Kei, his personal agent Van, and Captain-Commander Shunsui Kyōraku. That said, those in the Commando Unit, particularly Kenji, Kei, Van, and Anna, all caused Hisagi more headaches than was reasonably acceptable, to the point he was often noted to have developed a bulging vein above his eye.

Literary works

• Please Teach Me! Shūhei Sensei!! -- a serialized column which received a terrible debut. When Hisagi learned of Rangiku's poor opinion of the piece, he refused to leave the editorial room for three days. The piece dealt with lessons regarding the Shinigami and Soul Society and ran for three issues before being cancelled.

• This Hand, That Hand, The Hand Over There and Goodbye To Yesterday's Me -- two of the many works contributed by Hisagi during the Winter War.

• The Cataclysm -- an ongoing and highly popular episodic series written by Kenji Hiroshi, with frequent insight from Hisagi, who also serves as the work's main editor. The book features a highly fantasized version of the Gotei 13 and focuses on the adventures of main characters Kenji Hiroshi, Van Satonaka, Kei Yume and Shiju Shūdō. Hisagi is often left vexed by the time Kenji takes between releases, and has had to give him multiple extensions in the past. That said, Hisagi has learned to manipulate this process: when Kenji needs a favour, Hisagi dangles The Cataclysm over him as a lure.

• Data-book Tribulations -- a companion piece to The Cataclysm which expunges on the fantasy setting of Kenji's established series, which Hisagi worked on as the main editor.

Discography

• Breathless -- a CD released by Hisagi in the years following the assault on the 9th Division, which featured two songs: Miss and Kill. The CD featured the vocalized versions and instrumentals of both tracks, and featured Hisagi and Kazeshini's manifested form on the cover art.

History

Early childhood

Hisagi is saved by Kensei.

Sometime before the Hollowfication of various high-ranking Shinigami of the Gotei 13, Shūhei Hisagi lived in an unspecified region of the Rukongai. Whilst playing with his friends one day in an open field they are attacked by a particularly large Hollow, with Hisagi telling his friends to run. He lifted a stick to defend himself but was quickly subdued, where he was then hoisted into the air in preparation to be eaten. Luckily for Hisagi Captain Kensei Muguruma of the 9th Division rescued him, before effortlessly dispatching the Hollow with his Zanpakutō's Shikai, Tachikaze. After defeating the Hollow Kensei approaches the tearful Hisagi, who demands to know the young man's name, which he then provides. Kensei remarks that its a damn fine name and orders Hisagi to stop to crying, prompting his subordinates to note he is being too harsh. At this point Hisagi notices the 69 tattoo on Kensei's chest which eventually inspires him to get the same tattoo emblazoned on his cheek.

Hisagi is saved by Renji, Kira and Momo.

Hisagi eventually entered the Shinō Academy despite failing the entrance exam twice. Even when he was a mere student of the Academy he was taking missions for the Gotei 13, which made him something of a legend amongst his fellow students. During his last year of study he led a class of students including Renji Abarai, Izuru Kira and Momo Hinarmori alongside his fellow classmates Kanisawa and Aoga. They where assigned a field lesson pertaining to the use of Konsō, but where attacked by a group of huge Hollow. When Kanisawa was killed and Aoga incapacitated Hisagi ordered his class to retreat whilst he remained behind. As he held them off he was slashed across his right-eye, giving him his distinctive scars. He would have been killed but Renji, Kira and Momo returned to help him. The foursome where subsequently rescued by Captain Sōsuke Aizen and Lieutenant Gin Ichimaru of the 5th Division. Immediately following their treatment Hisagi ordered Renji, Kira and Momo to stop talking and continue walking, in a manner very similar to Kensei. This event gave way to a solid relationship between all involved; Hisagi particularly was often seen in the company of Izuru and Renji.

Hisagi speaks to Tōsen.

Hisagi's various talents enabled him to become a Seated Officer in the 9th Division upon his graduation without the need for him to undertake additional tests. His experiences thus far had become engraved deeply in his psyche however, causing him to become scared during field exercises and to make mistakes. Hisagi called Captain Kaname Tōsen to a secluded spot outside the Seireitei to request that he relieve him of his duties due to his fear, noting that he was unsettled every time he unsheathed his Zanpakutō. Tōsen, however, stated that this was the very reason he should be a Seated Officer, and further claims that those who do not fear their own sword have no right drawing it from its sheath in the first place. He further claims that a soldier needs a fear of battle more than they need strength. He tells Hisagi that he can take up his Zanpakutō in defence of those who are also afraid because of this. Tōsen's words resonated deeply with Hisagi, and Hisagi came to idolise his Captain in a similar manner to the way he viewed Kensei. It gave rise to Hisagi's own "follow the path with the least bloodshed" creed, as well as his desire to fight for justice.

Hisagi frustrated at Seireitei Communication.

After an unspecified time he developed a crush on Rangiku Matsumoto and would often spend time drinking with both Rangiku and Captain Shunsui Kyōraku of the 8th Division. As a member of the 9th Division he was likewise involved with the Seireitei Communication. He wrote Please Teach Me! Shūhei Sensei!! though it was cancelled due to a dreadful debut. When he heard Rangiku's comments regarding his work he refused to leave the office for three days. He later wrote This Hand, That Hand, The Hand Over There and Goodbye To Yesterday's Me. Hisagi would eventually become Tōsen's Lieutenant; a feat later included when Hisagi was described as the "ideal" Shinigami.

Early career

Ryōka Invasion

Hisagi is present when Ichigo Kurosaki and his friends confront Jidanbō Ikkanzaka outside the walls of the Seireitei. Instead of assisting Hisagi, assuming that Jidanbō will win because of his abilities, leaves matters in his hands.

Hisagi chides Yumichika for thinking he can defeat him.

Prior to the scheduled execution of Rukia Kuchiki, Hisagi mobilizes alongside his own Captain and the Captain and Lieutenant of the 7th Division to confront Captain Zaraki Kenpachi of the 11th Division, due to the latter's decision to aid the intruders. Zaraki claims that he will face all four at once by himself but is stopped by Ikkaku Madarame and Yumichika Ayasegawa, who state their desire to face Hisagi and Iba themselves. Hisagi faces off against Yumichika whom he chides for believing that he is fit to combat a Lieutenant. When he senses Tōsen activating his Bankai he claims he needs to assist him quickly, but is subsequently surprised when Yumichika releases his Zanpakutō.

Hisagi exhausted.

Later Hisagi is left completely exhausted after seemingly being defeated by Yumichika in battle. He is in a state of complete disbelief and wonders aloud how a Zanpakutō like Yumichika's could exist, claiming that his reiatsu has been completely drained by its unique power. He is further shocked when he senses Captain-Commander Yamamoto release Ryūjin Jakka. He eventually recovered enough to return to his duties immediately prior to Rukia's scheduled execution, which was to take place on Sōkyoku Hill, and Hisagi subsequently set out.

Hisagi captures his Captain.

When Kaname Tōsen is revealed to be a co-conspirator in the actions of traitorous 3rd and 5th Division Captains Sōsuke Aizen and Gin Ichimaru by Captain Retsu Unohana and Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu of the 4th Division, Hisagi is emotionally devastated and moves against Tōsen before orders are even given. He manages to temporarily capture his former Captain by holding his Zanpakutō to the latter's throat, but Tōsen is saved when Aizen and the others are surrounded by a Negación field which takes the trio to Hueco Mundo.

Hisagi and Komamura talk.

In the aftermath of Aizen, Gin and Tōsen's departure, Hisagi visits the grave of Tōsen's dear friend, where he finds Sajin Komamura. Hisagi inquires if Tōsen will ever return to the Soul Society which Komamura confirms. The two decide to pool their efforts and swear to save Tōsen from himself and his crazed sense of justice with their own two hands. Later he is invited out for drinks by Rangiku and Izuru Kira. Hisagi accepts but quickly notes that Kira has passed out and needs immediate assisstance. Rangiku, however, continues drinking and ignores him. Captain Shunsui Kyōraku of the Eighth Division also passes by but Rangiku declines to allow him to join them, noting that Nanao Ise will only scold them if Kyōraku joins them. Hisagi looks on when Rangiku also informs Kyōraku that Nanao was looking for him. In addition Hisagi also inherited Tōsen's editorial duties as Head of Seireitei Communication which, coupled with his existent duties, ensured he had little free-time. What little time he does have he used to begin learning the guitar, and he eventually learned the proper handling of the instrument from Chad.

Arrancar Invasion

Hisagi visits Ukitake.

In the aftermath of the twin Arrancar invasions of Karakura Town, Hisagi approaches Captain Jushirō Ukitake whilst the latter is watching Rukia Kuchiki and Orihime Inoue train, and notes that they are having fun. Using the excuse of delivering Ukitake's news magazine, Hisagi begins to complain about how much work a Captain has, further stating that Tōsen had never delegated his workload. Ukitake asks him to sit down and relax with him for a time, but Hisagi ultimately relents, reminding Ukitake that he is busy at present. He does note however that watching two girls train sounds nice, and asks Ukitake to invite him when he is less busy before returning to his duties.

Winter War

Battle of Fake Karakura Town

"As I thought, you are no longer Captain Tōsen. Your old, sightless self would have evaded an attack of this level with ease."

—Hisagi to Kaname Tōsen as he lands the finishing blow.

Hisagi mobilises alongside the contingent of the Gotei 13 whose task is to intercept Sōsuke Aizen, Gin Ichimaru and Kaname Tōsen in Karakura Town. Alongside Ikkaku Madarame, Izuru Kira and Yumichika Ayasegawa, Hisagi is charged with protecting one of four pillars keeping the real Karakura Twon swapped with a fake copy. He remains hidden initially, but watches Yamamoto trap Aizen, Gin and Tōsen with his Shikai so that the Shinigami may focus exclusively on the Espada and their Fracción. When Baraggan Louisenbairn attempts to destroy these pillars using Hollow, Hisagi effortlessly dispatches them, prompting Barragan to send his Fracción. Hisagi intercepts Findorr Calius, beginning their battle.

Findorr's released form.

Throughout the fight Hisagi suspects that Findorr is holding back and calls him out on this, stating that he is only fighting at the level of a Fifth Seated officer. This deduction only pleases Findorr however and he claims that Hisagi passed "the test", and proceeds to break off pieces of his mask in response. Each time he does so his power increases proportionally, until Findorr eventually settles at what he has deduced to be Lieutenant-level power. Hisagi begins to struggle and is soon goaded by Findorr who claims that he is fighting at the level expected of a Lieutenant, and questions why Hisagi should be tired fighting someone theoretically of equal power. Hisagi is visibly angered by the suggestion that he is not Lieutenant-class and counters. Hisagi attempts numerous attacks against Findorr with his Zanpakutō, but they are easily blocked or avoided by Findorr, who succeeds in injuring Hisagi lightly on the shoulder. Hisagi is eventually forced into a pile of rubble as Findorr cackles at him.

Hisagi easily and swiftly overwhelms Findorr with Kazeshini, and eventually kills him.

As the fight continues Findorr releases his Resurrección. Hisagi is cornered, with Findorr believing he has won. Hisagi, however, finally releases his Zanpakutō; this draws a smile from Captains Suì-Fēng and Tōshirō Hitsugaya. Hisagi quickly turns the tables on Findorr with his Shikai, and eventually talks of his belief of fearing one's sword and power; a concept Findorr fails to grasp. Findorr breaks his mask further, claiming that he is now at the strength of a Captain, but is shocked when Hisagi casually cuts his released form in half. Findorr attempts to flee but is chased down and killed by Hisagi who finally remarks that he wasn't even close to being as strong as a Captain. His victory is short-lived however for he notices the destruction of Ikkaku's pillar.

Hisagi gets crushed and is almost devoured by Ayon.

Hisagi, alongside Kira, makes a timely intervention to save Matsumoto and Hinamori from the brutish creature Ayon, by wrapping it up in the chains of Kazeshini. Hisagi orders Kira to treat Matsumoto and Hinamori and prepares to face Ayon alone, and does so by attacking it with Kidō. When Ayon is seemingly paralysed Hisagi mistakenly believes that he has found its weakness and prepares to attack again, but Ayon easily breaks free of Kazeshini's chains and grabs hold of Hisagi. Hisagi is saved from being eaten by Iba, but he is swiftly defeated, and Hisagi is thrown aside.

Hisagi intervenes so that he may fight Tōsen.

Hisagi remains conscious but sidelined for a period and is amongst the Shinigami being treated by Kira, with Sajin Komamura standing outside the barrier as a guard. He stirs when the Visored enter Fake Karakura Town and recognises Kensei Muguruma; the very same man who saved him from a Hollow when he was a child. Despite his injuries Hisagi intervenes when Komamura and Tōsen are about to fight by wrapping the chains of Kazeshini around Tōsen's Zanpakutō, and asks if he may be allowed to fight as well. Komamura correctly deduces that Hisagi is forcing himself.

Tōsen shocks his former comrades when he dons a Hollow mask immediately prior to their battle.

Hisagi takes the opportunity to thank Tōsen, which prompts him to ask if he is being sarcastic. Hisagi notes that his thanks are in relation to Tōsen's instruction and resolves to use what he has learned from Tōsen to open his eyes and return him to Soul Society. Tōsen notes however that Hisagi has not changed; he proceeds to explain that his instruction included the belief that those who do not know fear are not fit to battle, and then frees his Zanpakutō from Kazeshini's chain by vibrating it. He states that Hisagi spoke without fear. As soon as he is finished speaking Tōsen places his hand on his face.

Hisagi is stabbed through the chest by Tōsen.

Komamura summons his Bankai in retaliation.

Komamura begins to angrily admonish Tōsen for falling so low, whilst Hisagi asks if this is the Hollowfication that he has heard about, which Tōsen confirms. Hisagi is then attacked swiftly by Tōsen but manages to take a cautionary step backwards in-time, but is nevertheless sent falling to the ground below. Komamura attacks Tōsen and the two debate the reasons behind Tōsen's betrayal, only for their conversation to be interrupted by Hisagi. He wraps Kazeshini's chain around Tōsen's throat and proceeds to pull him down to the ground, where Hisagi grabs his former Captain by the throat. Hisagi notes that Tōsen's attack lacked malicious intent; he further states Tōsen's style was never to use excessive force even when forced to draw his blade. Hisagi recounts the importance of the philosophy that Tōsen taught him and proceeds to ask him how he can utter such words and then blindly ignore them. The final straw for Tōsen comes when Hisagi asks him what now drives his fear and Tōsen reponds by silently impaling Hisagi through the chest and throwing him from the building. Tōsen then claims that his fear is that he would assimilate with the rest of the Shinigami and die a pointless death. As soon as he says this however he is attacked by Komamura's Bankai.

Hisagi deals Tōsen a fatal injury.

Hisagi remains conscious and watches the battle unfold between Komamura and Tōsen. Hisagi himself does not intervene again until after Tōsen has released a bestial transformation that makes him appear as a Hollow, which grants him vision. When Komamura is dealt a grievous wound and Tōsen is preparing to finish him off, both combatants are shocked when a blade suddenly plunges down through Tōsen's head. Hisagi is revealed as the culprit and claims that, just as he had thought, the person they are fighting is no longer Captain Tōsen, for his old sightless self would have evaded an attack of this level with ease. Hisagi proceeds to release Kazeshini; the blades transformation and unique form serves to pierce Tōsen through the mouth. The wound forces Tōsen to his normal form where Komamura states that he knew they where destined to cross blades, and states that Hisagi likely knew this too. Tōsen asks Hisagi to come closer so he may see his face, explaining that his Hollowfication allows him to still see. Tōsen, however, explodes, splattering blood across the area.

Aftermath

Following the battles in Fake Karakura Town, Hisagi worked alongside Renji to improve their abilities with the goal of defeating Aizen should he ever reappear. Hisagi also found himself with more free-time than he had previously; Kensei Muguruma returned to his prior position as Captain of the 9th Division, which also freed him of his role as Editor-in-Chief of Seireitei Communication. He would later get chewed out by his superiors for importing a motorcycle from the World of the Living and causing a ruckus in the Seireitei.

Quincy Blood War

"If you want to see the truth without obstruction, then struggle by sacrificing your own flesh, blood and soul. At the very least, Tōsen Kaname was able to do so. I wonder if it's​ not your place to know?"

—Aizen to Hisagi before being resealed.

Sōsuke Aizen tells an angry Hisagi that Kaname Tōsen was the most loyal of his subordinates, and that his death was Aizen's form of mercy.

Hisagi, thanks in-part to Orihime Inoue and no small degree of luck, survives being shot by Lille Barro, but even several days after the conclusion of the war he is still described as having a mess of wounds all over his body. Because of Kensei's specialised treatment Hisagi assumes temporary command of the 9th Division and is present with other high-ranking Shinigami when Sōsuke Aizen is due to be re-incarcerated within Muken, despite being noted by Shunsui Kyōraku to appear as if he had just slipped out of a 4th Division sickbed and that he "was painful to look at". Hisagi verbally admonishes Aizen when the latter speaks about Kaname Tōsen, and does his best to keep his guard up, but he becomes agitated when Aizen declares that Kaname had always been one of his loyal subordinates. Shunsui, interjecting, states that he understands Hisagi's anger, but requests that he hold back for now. Hisagi reluctantly agrees but Aizen continues to speak, eventually noting that when he killed Kaname, he did so as a form of mercy. Aizen's words continue, with Hisagi noting internally that while he spoke many lies and falsehoods, he rarely said anything that did not have meaning. When Aizen is finally bore into the entrance of Muken Hisagi attempts to chase after him, but is physically restrained by Suì-Fēng, who admonishes him for his behaviour. Before being removed from the scene completely Aizen leaves Hisagi with a parting shot, informing him to see the truth without obstruction by sacrificing his own flesh, blood and soul, and further states that Kaname had been fit to do so.

Later career

Whilst Captain Ōtoribashi survived his treatment in the aftermath of the Blood War, Captain Muguruma did not; his death had a noticeable impact on Hisagi and Rose. Hisagi thus inherited control of Seireitei Communication for the third time in his career, and he held this post until the appointment of Kazuya Kuchiki as Captain. Kazuya's first action as Captain was to return the 9th Division to the standard layout that consisted of a sole Lieutenant; he felt the practice of co-Lieutenants cheapened the position, and Mahsiro Kuna was thus demoted.

Investigating Tōsen's Mystery

Main article -- Bleach: Can't Fear Your Own World.

Synopsis

Renascence Beginning

Main article -- Renascence Beginning.

9th Division Assault arc

• Assault on the 9th Division
• Towards the Future: Kenji's Resolve
• Towards the Future: Cave of Fulmination (mentioned)
• Towards the Future: Human World Investigation
• Towards the Future: Answers and Questions

Blank period arc

Evening Primrose arc

• Blank period: The Noble Art
• Blank period: The Evening Primrose
• Blank period: Moving Forward

Investigation arc

• Blank period: No Rest for the Weary

The Western Branch arc

• Blank period: To the West (first identified as Captain)
• Blank period: To Wing Bind
• Blank Period: Death and the Witch

The New Substitute arc

• Back From the Dead: Kensei Muguruma!?
• Back From the Dead: Recuperation

Bleach: War for the King's Seal

Main article -- Bleach: War for the King's Seal.

Hunger and Greed arc

• Hunger and Greed: On the Run

Powers and Abilities

Great Spiritual Energy: Hisagi's reiatsu is green. Despite being a Lieutenant in terms of rank, Hisagi abilities were not reflective of his position, for he was capable of performing Bankai and, like the late Chōjirō Sasakibe, was said to possess Captain-level ability. He is roughly comparable to the modified soul fashioned in the form of Kensei Muguruma. By late 2006, Hisagi, after additional training and drills, was promoted to Captain of the 9th Division.

Adaptability: Hisagi is a jack-of-all-trades with high skill in all areas of Shinigami combat. Even as a student at the Academy he was taking missions for the Gotei 13, and he was seen as something of a legend by his peers. As a Lieutenant, he was noted by several Captains to be the ideal "template" for a Shinigami. In recent years however he has tended to lean more towards Zanjutsu and Kidō, which is very much in-line with the philosophies of his former Captains.

Zanjutsu Mastery: Hisagi excels particularly in the art of Zanjutsu. His skills are honed to the point that he can engage others of similar or higher level whilst keeping his own Zanpakutō sealed, for he prefers to use Kazeshini as a last resort whenever possible. His skill in wielding his Shikai is unprecedented, for he can flawlessly manipulate the chains and sickle-blades to devastating effect in battle, yet possesses the needed precision to attack his opponents whilst simultaneously defending his allies. His skills improved further through training to the point that even when faced with an opponents Bankai, Hisagi was able to fight back against it using only his Shikai in conjunction with Kidō for a brief period. After recovering from his encounter with Kensei, and at Kenji's insistence, Hisagi began developing his Zanjutsu prowess further by integrating the ancient Wan'nesu style into his repertoire, thus devoloping his own Battle Aura. Through additional drills and specialized training, undertaken in the months following the news of his imminent promotion to Captain in 2006, Hisagi's skills developed further.

Kidō Expertise: Hisagi is a highly adept practitioner of Kidō, for he can utilise sixty-level Bakudō without name or incantation, and has demonstrated the ability to flawlessly integrate his Kidō prowess with his released Zanpakutō for devastating combination attacks. Like many in the 9th Division Hisagi benefited greatly from the Captaincy of Kazuya Kuchiki. He advocated the study of Kidō amongst the members of the 9th Division, based on the training undertaken by the Kidō Corps, and Hisagi studied under him diligently prior to his death. He has shown the requisite skill to alter the shape and consistency of low and mid-tier spells, whilst employing them in rapid succession. Additionally, he was knowledgable on the Magic employed by the Wizards and Witches of Wing Bind, courtesy of his role as a laiason attached to the Cultural Exchange Initiative.

Hohō Expertise: Hisagi is highly proficient in the art of shunpo. During his battle with Findorr he was fit to evade the vast majority of the latter's continuous Bala assault. He later moved from the barracks of the 9th Division to the site of Kenji's battle with Sakae in a short enough period that his intervention allowed Kenji to narrowly escape death. Through additional drills and specialized training, undertaken in the months following the news of his imminent promotion to Captain in 2006, Hisagi's skills developed further.

Enhanced Endurance: Hisagi is notoriously tough. Even after being thrashed by Ayon, he was able to eventually defeat his former Captain despite receiving further grievous injuries in the process. Following the Winter War he spent a great deal of time training with Renji, with the goal of defeating Aizen. As a result his physical capacity increased greatly. He was fit to survive having much of the ribs on his left-hand side broken or cracked by an unrestrained blow from Kensei's Bankai, and even managed to walk on his own immediately after.

Enhanced Strength: Hisagi is capable of throwing individuals as large and heavy as Ayon, and subsequently slam him into the ground using his Shikai. Following the Winter War he spent a great deal of time training with Renji, with the goal of defeating Aizen. As a result his physical capacity increased greatly. Despite suffering extensive wounds, Hisagi was able to momentarily stop Kensei leaving the scene by wrapping Kazeshini around his ankle and pulling the chain taught.

Zanpakutō

Kazeshini (風死, Wind of Death). Hisagi's Zanpakutō takes the form of a traditional katana with an octangular guard, which he commonly carries at his waist or back.

Hisagi releases Kazeshini's Shikai.

• Shikai: Hisagi releases his Zanpakutō with the command "Reap" (刈れ, kare). Kazeshini takes the form of twin kusarigama connected to one another by way of a long chain; manipulation of these chains allow for long-range attacks, entanglement of a foes weaponry or limbs, physical attacks, and even self-defence. In actuality, Shunsui Kyōraku states that the power of Kazeshini lies within its chains. Hisagi's initial Bankai training under Kensei and Mashiro motivated Hisagi, and he has further refined his mastery of Kazeshini in the intervening years. In the years following Kazuya's death and Hisagi's own promotion to Captain, Hisagi had developed a myriad of additional techniques with Kazeshini using Onigiri, allowing for additional effects outside Kazeshini's innate powers that align more readily with its former reputation as a melee-type. Hisagi dislikes Kazeshini's form, however; a trait that has persisted throughout the years, even following his acquisition of Bankai. He describes Kazeshini as something meant to "reap lives".

Shikai Special Ability: When first unveiled, Kazeshini was believed to be an elaborate melee-type Zanpakutō with no special abilities beyond its increased range and unpredictable nature, which allowed Hisagi to attack from a multitude of angles. In truth, no Zanpakutō more closely defines the role of a Shinigami, for its chains represents life and death in equal measure. Kazeshini is not a dual-bladed type of Zanpakutō. Rather, its ability revolves around its chains. Kazeshini can restore any injury inflicted on Hisagi and link his body back together again, to the point he can recover even should his entire body be destroyed, reiatsu permitting, though wounds gained prior to release aren't healed. Even before this ability was extensively documented, it worked in the background during some of Hisagi's most difficult battles, manifesting in the form of enhanced durability and a seeming ability to shrug off grievous injuries through sheer willpower. He was thrashed around by Ayon, further injured by Tōsen, and suffered what should have been a fatal injury from Lille Barro. In fact, the injury Hisagi suffered against Lille killed Royal Guardsmen Ōetsu Nimaiya.

Fushi no Kōjyō.

• Bankai: Fushi no Kōjyō (風死絞縄, Undying Hangman's Noose): Hisagi's Bankai creates a large black orb of chains over his head and casts the surrounding area in shadows, and should this orb or the chains be broken, they simply regenerate. As such, Hisagi's Bankai is one of the few that cannot be broken. These chains extend down from the orb and into the ground behind Hisagi, taking on an appearance akin to a tree, and he retains the use of Kazeshini's Shikai blades. A direct result of Fushi no Kōjyō causes a stagnation of the reishi in the immediate surroundings, similar to the conditions of the old war millennia ago.

Bankai Special Ability: Fushi no Kōjyō connects Hisagi and his opponent together via chains around their necks, similar to a hangman's noose. Once linked in this manner, his Bankai heals any wound either combatant suffers in the same way the Shikai release of Kazeshini does, drawing from their combined reiatsu, effectively equalizing the battlefield regardless of the strength-level of Hisagi's opponent.

• Weaknesses: Although powerful, Hisagi's Bankai has two serious drawbacks that limit its use somewhat. Despite reversing damage, Fushi no Kōjyō in no way suppresses or lessens the pain Hisagi feels when he is injured. More powerful beings, such as Hikone Ubuginu, require a staggering amount of "deaths" on Hisagi's part to run their shared reiatsu dry. Hikone, for example, required over one-hundred. In addition, once the shared pool of reiatsu is depleted, both Hisagi and his opponent would die should his Bankai remain active, necessitating the need for outside assistance for Hisagi to finish a fight.

Onigiri

Over the years, Hisagi has worked to find alternative means of using Kazeshini without relying on its special abilities, which has furthered its reputation as a melee-type as these are the traits more commonly employed by Hisagi in battle. The first of these enhancements were brought about using Onigiri concepts, which is a hybrid art combining Zanjutsu and Kidō.

Hisagi using Kurotatsukami.

• Kurotatsumaki (黒竜巻, Black Tornado): the main evolution of Hisagi's focus on martial prowess, and a technique brought about through Onigiri, which is a hybrid technique comprising Kidō and Zanjutsu. Using this particular trait, Hisagi moves at incredibly fast speeds whilst appearing to take the form of a large, black tornado, whose wind slashes are so swift even focused eyes may fail to perceive the paths his weapons take until it is too late. The speed and increased momentum of his actions, allowed him to partially deflect an unrestrained blow from Kensei's Bankai, though the effort destroyed half of Kazeshini, and left Hisagi grievously wounded.

Hisagi using Hyūhyū.

• Hyūhyū (ヒューヒュー, Sound of the Wind): a form of Kidō brought about through Onigiri, which Hisagi developed alongside Izuru Kira. Hisagi unleashes powerful pressurized air as he spins, extending the formidable range of Kazeshini yet further in the form of shadowy blades of wind, which can be fired in rapid-succession. These blades were powerful enough to temporarily cut Kenji free of Sakae's Kidō-wrought firestorm, and injure Captain-class opposition.

Battle Aura

Over the years, Hisagi has worked to find alternative means of using Kazeshini without relying on its special abilities, which has furthered its reputation as a melee-type as these are the traits more commonly employed by Hisagi in battle. The second of these enhancements was brought about through Wan'nesu applications.

Hisagi using his Battle Aura.

• Battle Aura (一戦霊気, Issenreiki): a technique introduced to Hisagi by Kenji through his study of the ancient Wan'nesu form. Hisagi's Battle Aura works specifically to augment his Onigiri technique, enhancing Kurotatsumaki. The technique results in a physical change in both Hisagi and Kazeshini, which is predominately worn, rather than producing a massive or destructive effect. Kazeshini gains additional blades, giving it the appearance of an X-shape. Black chains, which connect to the base of Kazeshini, coil around Hisagi's arms from his wrists to his biceps and can easily be loosened for increased range. Finally, his shihakushō gains free-flowing ends that trail out behind him.

Battle Aura Special Ability: Hisagi's Battle Aura is a compression of Kurotatsumaki, which has been compared to a Clad-type Fullbring. As such, Hisagi experiences increased speed and reflexes to the point of instantaneous movement beyond the scope of Shunpo and Sonído, whilst producing heightened speed and enhanced reflexes most Shinigami would have their bodies give out at. Hisagi himself claims that it is the culmination of his focus on martial prowess.

• Enhanced Spiritual Energy:

• Enhanced Strength:

• Enhanced Speed:

• Enhanced Durability:

• Enhanced Hyūhyū:

• Karite (刈り手, Reaper): Hisagi's Battle Aura not only condenses Kurotatsumaki but opens up additional ways Hisagi can use it. This technique allows Hisagi to weaponize his body. Whilst adopting his previously seen tornado-like movement, Hisagi can surround his opponent, trapping them in the tornado's "eye". This allows him to rapidly entangle his opponent in the chains of Kazeshini.

Alternate world counterpart

Main article -- Shūhei Hisagi (Kenji).

Author's notes

Behind the scenes

Fanon Bankai

Note: the Bankai described below is what I originally intended to use for Hisagi's Bankai. It was later repurposed as his Battle Aura.

Shigo Kazeshini.

• Bankai: Shigo Kazeshini (私語風死, Whispering Wind of Death) is similar to Kensei's Tekken Tachikaze, for it is a compact form that is worn, rather than a massive effect. The release causes Kazeshini to gain additional blades, giving it the appearance of an X-shape; when spun, the sound was described by Kenji as "the hissing wind of death". Black chains, which connect to the base of Shigo Kazeshini, coil around his arms from wrist to biceps and can easily be loosened. His shihakushō gains free-flowing ends that trail out behind him, whilst the upper section of his kosode turns white, excepting the shoulders and sleeves.

Bankai Special Ability: Shigo Kazeshini is a compression of the Black Tornado. As such, Hisagi experiences increased speed and reflexes; to the point of instantaneous movement beyond the scope of Shunpo and Sonído, whilst producing heightened speed and enhanced reflexes most Shinigami would have their bodies give out at.

• Enhanced Hyūhyū: Hisagi's Hyūhyū no longer requires him to swing his Zanpakutō. He can fire the Hyūhyū technique without a "fighting pose", seemingly through line of sight alone. The speed of firing and sharpness of Hyūhyū is significantly heightened as well, to the point of grievous injury being inflicted. The truly frightening aspect of Hyūhyū however is that it now loses its shadowy properties from before, which makes it nearly untraceable when fired.