Minazuki (Zanpakutō spirit)

This article is about the manifested spirit of Retsu Unohana's Zanpakutō. For her Zanpakutō and its abilities, see Minazuki.

is the manifested spirit of Retsu Unohana's Zanpakutō.

Appearance
Minazuki's physical manifestation takes the form of a slim humanoid figure covered in bandages and wearing a very long light green hood.

Zanpakutō Unknown Tales arc (anime only)
Note: Events occurring in this arc are only in the anime and do not constitute canon material.

Minazuki wait for Muramasa's return alongside the other Zanpakutō spirits in their cave. Later, Minazuki, Katen Kyōkotsu, and Sōgyo no Kotowari approach the main office of the 1st Division. After being confronted by Chōjirō Sasakibe, they take Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto as their hostage, with Muramasa later stating the power of the three Zanpakutō spirits was necessary in order to seal Yamamoto. Later, Minazuki and the other Zanpakutō spirits appear before the Shinigami who have gathered on Sōkyoku Hill. Later, Muramasa shows Byakuya Kuchiki the location where Yamamoto is sealed, with Minazuki, Katen Kyōkotsu, and Sōgyo no Kotowari using their powers to maintain the barrier around Yamamoto.

When Yoruichi Shihōin leads Jūshirō Ukitake, Kenpachi Zaraki, Shunsui Kyōraku, and Ichigo Kurosaki to the cave where Yamamoto is being held hostage, the Zanpakutō spirits prepare to fight. As Ichigo heads down a tunnel, he encounters Minazuki, who avoids his attacks and retreats along the tunnel, seemingly leading him through the tunnel to where Yamamoto is.

Beast Swords arc (anime only)
Note: Events occurring in this arc are only in the anime and do not constitute canon material.

Minazuki is among the Shinigami and Zanpakutō spirits who confront Saru and Hebi after they destroy the Shinigami Research and Development Institute.

When Renji Abarai defeats the final Tōjū, Kirikaze, with Hikotsu Taihō, Minazuki permanently returns to its sword as the power allowing the Zanpakutō spirits to temporarily maintain their manifested form is finally depleted.

Powers and Abilities
Immense Spiritual Power: As the Zanpakutō spirit of one of the most powerful captains of the Gotei 13, Minazuki possesses an incredible amount of Reiryoku. Along with Sōgyo no Kotowari and Katen Kyōkotsu, its power was enough to keep Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto's power at bay while he was within his barrier.

Enhanced Speed: Minazuki possesses considerable speed, dodging all of Ichigo Kurosaki's attacks while leading him toward Yamamoto.