Byakuya Kuchiki

"Principle lodged in the eyes." - Tite Kubo

is the Captain of the Sixth Division in the Gotei 13. His lieutenant is Renji Abarai. He descends from one of the four great noble families of Soul Society, and as such he is the embodiment of pride and discipline, intending to be a role model for all Shinigami. Due to an oath he took, he strongly supports the punishment of his adopted sister, Rukia Kuchiki, after she is arrested and sentenced to death for giving her powers to Ichigo Kurosaki, thus he becomes the fiercest opponent of the latter, when he comes to Rukia's rescue. After being defeated by Ichigo and learning the truth behind Rukia's planned execution, he becomes slightly more lenient and even more protective towards his sister and her Ryoka friends. Later, just like the other Captains, he is involved in the war between the Arrancar and Shinigami. He ranked 7th in the most recent popularity poll with 4,010 votes, edging out Orihime Inoue by 35 votes. Senbonzakura, Byakuya's zanpakutō, was voted the 5th most popular zanpakutō in a recent Bleach Poll.

Appearance
Byakuya appears as a youthful man with dark blue eyes and long black hair which he keeps up in a intricate white headpiece called a kenseikan (symbolizing his nobility as the head of the Kuchiki family). He wears the standard Captain uniform along with a white scarf made by the master weaver, Tsujishirō Kuroemon III.

The scarf is made from the silver-white, windflower light silk (ginpaku kazahana no uzuginu) and is a family heirloom that is handed down from generation to generation and is given to each Kuchiki family head. The scarf alone is worth enough to buy ten mansions in the Seireitei. He also wears fingerless white gloves that cover only the back of his hands.

Personality
Byakuya Kuchiki is the 28th head of the noble Kuchiki clan, one of the four great noble families in Soul Society. As such, Byakuya acts in an aristocratic manner — he seems always serene and apathetic towards other people, even when he is actually deeply conflicted. He is also extremely calm, even in battle, and is very seldom surprised by even the most drastic of actions. However, when he was younger, he was quick to anger and very hotheaded, as noted by his grandfather Due in part to his status in Soul Society, he generally acts indifferent, bordering on arrogance, to most situations that he is faced with as seen from how he rarely views his opponent worth his time. Despite this trait, Byakuya is a very perceptive man and is fully aware of the limits of his abilities and usually anything he states in comparison to an opponent is justified.

Byakuya strongly believes in law and order. As the head of one of the great noble families and as a captain in the Gotei 13, he always works hard for a peaceful society. He feels that if someone in his position does not follow the rules as a good example, then no one will follow them. He believes that to maintain the order, all law-breakers must be punished, even if that goes against his own wishes. In spite of his icy and regal manner, Byakuya cares for and protects those important to him. And after the events of the Aizen incident, he admitted that law isn't perfect and became more lenient, as well as more protective, of his adoptive sister, Rukia.

Byakuya is popular among the female Shinigami of Soul Society, and was voted number one in the "Captain we desire to release a photo book for" poll taken by the Shinigami Women's Association. He likes Japanese cherry blossoms, nighttime walks, spicy food, and bananas, but he does not like sweets. Similar to Sōsuke Aizen, he excels in calligraphy. He, apparently, is very fond of calligraphy, being the representative or possibly president of the Calligraphy Society.

As astonishing as it may seem, Byakuya seems to have a comedic side, as he not only attends the lieutenant's meeting when Renji's absent, but also attends the meetings of the Shinigami Women's Association when Rukia's absent. As he puts it, "part of a captain's responsibilities is to make sure the Lieutenant's responsibilities are taken care of," to which Renji asks if goes to Rukia's meetings, which is only responded by a smile similar to that of Gin Ichimaru's. He also once jokingly remarks that he uses Senbonzakura to cut his hair. In one of the omake chapters, Byakuya claims that life in general is not supposed to be entertaining, and even makes up an idea for a game that is not really meant to be amusing.

Having descended from noble stock, Byakuya is easily offended if his name is not used properly. As such, he seems to view Ichigo Kurosaki in disdain for always referring to him improperly, though he never said anything to him to change that. Ichigo seems to be the only one to refer to Byakuya very informally (even his wife referred to him as "Byakuya-sama") so far, with the exception of Yachiru, who refers to Byakuya by the nicknames "Bya-kun" or "Byakushi,". He once calls Ichigo to his mansion in order to have a talk with the young Substitute Shinigami, but they were interrupted by Yachiru's appearance, who asked Ichigo to follow her elsewhere. After Ichigo's disappearance, it is revealed that Byakuya wanted Ichigo to refer to him properly, and to stop calling him by only his first name. When Byakuya talks with Ichigo, he calls him by his full name, Ichigo Kurosaki.

Byakuya has shown open disdain for those who have been disgraced or whom he fines to be annoying or overconfident. This is shown when he uses unnecessary force against Ganju Shiba who was little to no threat to him, just because he was a member of the formerly Noble Shiba family. He also shows a grudge toward Yoruichi Shihoin for being better then him at Shunpo as well as annoying him by constantly rubbing his face in it, this particular grudge spans 110 years. This goes even as far as him even disliking having to use techniques taught to him by Yoruichi.

In some golden cups, he sees his house had been altered by some tunnels, which are revealed to be Yachiru Kusajishi's handiwork. In one of the most recent, he discovered that Yachiru, Nemu Kurotsuchi, Rangiku Matsumoto, Nanao Ise, Isane and Kiyone Kotetsu, Soifon, and Yoruichi were having a tea party in his house, without his knowledge (his face is not shown when he sees the room's interior). Later, when he tries to border up the secret door, Yachiru reveals another to Byakuya's intense surprise, and his face is shown with dismay.

History
Byakuya was born the prince of The Kuchiki family, One of the four Noble families. Byakuya grew up in the Kuchiki Mansion in the Seireitei of Soul Society. He would spend countless hours training, in preparation of taking over the leadership of the Kuchiki family and the 6th Division from his grandfather, Ginrei Kuchiki.

Yoruichi appeared to be on good terms with the members of the Kuchiki noble family as she would often visit the Kuchiki manor to play tag with Byakuya. On one such occasion she is presented to a training Byakuya by his grandfather Ginrei Kuchiki, the head of the Kuchiki family as well as the 6th Division captain. Upon seeing the arrival of Yoruichi, he swings his sword at her and calls her a demon cat. Yoruichi laughs and playful begins to tease him, calling him 'Little Byakuya', complaining why such a greeting after she came all the way there to see him. Byakuya yells at her that he would never want to see the likes of her and that he will be the head of the Kuchiki clan soon enough so he has no time to waster on her. Yoruichi asks if that is the case as she steals the ribbon holding his hair back, Byakuya quickly turns and swings his sword at her but she uses Shunpo to move to the roof of a nearby building. Yoruichi laughs at him and exclaims that if the head of clan Kuchiki can get his hairtie stolen by a girl at play, then she would worry about the future of the clan, in order to entire him into another game of tag. Not to be defeated so easily Byakuya tells her not to move an inch, but before he could finish she tells him that he cant catch her as she uses shunpo again to begin the chase. Byakuya plainly states that now he sees she wishes to incite his wrath, and he promises to make her see the error of her ways, further making the claim that his shunpo is far superior to the likes of hers.

55 years ago Byakuya married Hisana Kuchiki, who was a commoner from Rukongai; therefore, he broke the rules by accepting her into the noble Kuchiki family. 5 years later she became sick and was near death. Shortly before her passing, Hisana asked Byakuya to find and adopt her biological sister, Rukia, whom she had abandoned as a baby. She also made him promise that he would not tell Rukia about her real family, for she believed that by abandoning Rukia when she was younger, she was not worthy to be called her sister.

One year later, Rukia entered the Shinigami Academy. Shortly after, Byakuya found her and immediately adopted her into the Kuchiki clan. By adopting her, Byakuya respected his late wife's final wish, but had broken the rules of his clan again. He later swore upon his parents' graves that he would never break the rules again, no matter what. As a result, he, though entirely apathetic on the surface, is actually deeply conflicted with the matter of Rukia's execution: should he intervene, it would require breaking the promise to his parents and the rules again, but should he do nothing, he would fail to fulfill the last promise he made to his dying wife to protect Rukia as his own sister.

Not long before Rukia joined the Gotei 13, Byakuya became the Captain of the Sixth Division|6th Division (less then 49 years ago). Gin Ichimaru became Captain of the 3rd Division at the same time, and Gin would commonly start pointless conversations with Byakuya during times they crossed paths.

Agent of the Shinigami arc
Byakuya first appears on a mission with his lieutenant, Renji Abarai, to capture Rukia Kuchiki and return her to Soul Society as well as kill Ichigo Kurosaki. He stands and watches as his lt. Renji Abarai attacks Rukia. He stands by as Uryuu Ishida enters into the conflict between Renji and Rukia. Shortly after Renji defeats Ishida, Byakuya bears witness to the arrival of Ichigo and watches as Renji engages him. When Renji is almost hit by Ichigo, Byakuya tells his lt. that he is being too careless, but Renji simply states that Ichigo is nothing to worry about. Byakuya explains to him that he knew Ichigo looked familiar, 33 hours ago they used the Special Forces to get the his image. They then sent a Menos Grande through into the Human world and Ichigo gave it a scar. Renji laughs at the idea that Ichigo would be capable of such a thing.

Eventually Ichigo though seemingly defeated turns the tables on Renji and strikes back. He prepares for a killing strike but in an instant realizes that the majority of his sword has been cut off. He realized that Renji didn't do it and then looks over to Byakuya and sees him holding the rest of his sword in his hand. Ichigo sees it as impossible stating that Byakuya couldn't have possibly have done it being so far away. Byakuya drops Ichigo's blade and prepares to unsheathe his Zanpakuto. Before Ichigo realizes it Byakuya is behind him and he has a grievous wound on his chest. The attack was so fast that Ichigo can't tell whether he got attacked from the front or the back. Byakuya tells him he's slow, even when he's falling down. Byakuya then asks Renji if something is wrong. Renji tells him no but there was no need for him to directly attack Ichigo, as he could have finished him. Byakuya tells him not to be like that, for if he is always the speculator, his skills may degrade.

When Rukia runs to Ichigo's prone body Renji stops her. Byakuya then asks her whether she would still go to Ichigo's side after all that has just happened. He then tells her that he understands as he does resemble him (referring to Rukia's former mentor and lt. Kaien Shiba). Then Ichigo comes to and grabs Byakuya's pant leg. Byakuya tells him to let got but Ichigo defiantly tells him he cant hear him and he should look at him when talking to him. Byakuya the tells him he wont have his arm for long. Rukia immediately kicks Ichgio's hand away. Rukia then scolds Ichigo for not knowing his place and then tells Byakuya that she is ready to leave, accepting her punishment. She then asks that Byakuya leave Ichigo be, to which he agrees. He states that those two attacks were vital, he chest and collarbone have been thoroughly injured, do to that he should die in a half hour. But even if he does happen to live, not even a speck of Shinigami power will be left in him. He then has Renji open a Senkaimon back to Soul Society.

Later in Soul Society Byakuya comes across Kenpachi Zaraki, Captain of the 11th Division appears with Gin Ichimaru, Captain of the 3rd Division with both teasing him about Rukia being sentenced to death, saying that he is depressed, as a noble family wouldn't stand to have a criminal as a member. Byakuya says that he didn't think lower class people could understand the feelings of nobles. Kenpachi counters by telling him not really but he is very bright, and since he is so bright why doesn't Byakuya allow him to finish Rukia off before she is executed. Byakuya states he didn't know with Kenpachi's level he could actually kill people. Kenpachi tells him to try him and the two were about to engage in combat but Gin stopped Kenpachi by tying and luring him away.

Soul Society arc
Later, Byakuya is present during the captain's emergency meeting called by General Yamamoto. However he says nothing at this time, and remains silent throughout the constant bickering between his fellow officers.

Upon Renji's defeat to Ichigo, Renji is brought to a secure location and watched over by his old friends Izuru Kira, Lieutenant of the 3rd Division and Momo Hinamori, Lieutenant of the 5th Division. Distraught Momo asks Izuru to call for the 4th Division medics. Out of nowhere Byakuya appears behind Momo and tells them that there is no need, as Renji is to be thrown in jail. The two lieutenants are surprised at Byakuya's arrival. When Momo tries to plead with him, but Byakuya plainly tells her that he doesn't want excuses as since Renji was alone when he fought he has no reason to have lost. He goes on and states that he doesn't want an idiot that can't even understand it, he is just getting in the way and he should be moved in a hurry somewhere else. Momo screams at Byakuya and asks him how can he say that, but she is stopped by Izuru, apologizes to Byakuya before a reluctant Momo does the same.

Byakuya later interrupts Ganju Shiba and Hanatarō Yamada's attempt to rescue Rukia. Ganju decides out of the two he would take on Byakuya. Byakuya tells him that he could sense some faint spiritual pressure going toward Shishinrou, at first he thought it was someone strong holding back his spiritual pressure, but it was nothing but a big fat bug. He calls the realization a dull one. Ganju goes to attack Byakuya but before he knows Byakuya is past him severely damaging Ganju's left arm. Byakuya tells him to be gone as his sword was not made to kill pests like him. But Ganju to tells him to stop, Byakuya asks if he is deaf, as he told him to leave. Ganju tells him that he is too noisy, as he doesn't know how it is among the nobles, but a coward that could be scared away by such an attack, does not exist in the Shiba family. Then Byakuya realizes that Ganju is a member of the Shiba family. He then apologizes for not hitting Ganju harder. As Byakuya unsheathes his Zanpakuto he tells Ganju that he will make sure that he doesn't walk away from this alive. Ganju questions what can Byakuya do from so far away. Rukia looks on and realizes what is about to happen and screams to Byakuya to stop. Byakuya releases his shikai and Ganju notices that his blade has disappeared, Rukia screams to Ganju to run but its too late as he is practically shredded by Byakuya's shikai. Ganju falls to his knees as Hanatarō and Rukia stare in disbelief. As Byakuya raises his sword hand to finish Ganju off he is stopped by Jushiro Ukitake, Captain of the 13th Division. He tell's Byakuya that he thinks that is enough. Byakuya asks him whats the point of his intrusion. Ukitake explains that the release of a Zanpakuto in Konnatokoru is a first class offense even if you are fighting Ryoku, he then asks Byakuya what he was thinking. Byakuya plainly tells him that it is a war time situation the ban on releasing a Zanpakuto has been lifted. Ukitake asks him why would the ban be lifted for something as simple as ryoku and if it has something to do with Captain Aizen's death.

Just then Byakuya and Ukitake sense the arrival of a strong spiritual pressure clearly at the level of a captain. Ichigo then shows up and tells Rukia that he has come to save her and he then goes to engage Byakuya in combat.

Ukitake asks Byakuya who Ichigo is, Byakya simply says that he is no one and compared to the person lying behind him, he is not important and just a ryoku. That he will destroy. Ichigo tells Byakuya that he has been standing around all carefree and didn't even move when he was talking to Rukia. Byakuya asks Ichigo who does he think he is talking to. As why would he need to sneak up on the likes of him. As Ichigo thinks to high of himself. Byakuya the releases his spiritual pressure forcing Rukia and Hanatarō to their knees. As Ichigo pulls out his Zanpakuto, Byakuya notes that Ichigo has not even budged to his spiritual pressure and remarks at how it seems as though Ichigo has gained strength. Byakuya tells him that he doesn't know how he has reacquired the power of a Shinigami, but he should have just went back to his normal Human life. Instead of throwing away his life that he luckily kept. Ichigo tells him that he is not throwing away his life and that he is going to defeat him and go home. Byakya restates that Ichigo shouldn't think to highly of himself. He uses Shunpo do get behind Ichigo who blocks his attack with his Zanpakuto. Ichigo tells him that even though Byakuya thinks that he thinks to highly of himself. He then explains that he saw every single step Byakuya made. They move apart and Byakuya tells him that he sees that Ichigo has improved and that in that case, he will show him before he becomes to full of himself, what he can't compensate for with a thousand years of training. The decisive difference in strength. Rukia screams at Ichigo to run as Byakuya releases his shikai.

Yoruichi arrives just in time to stop the release of Senbonzakura's Shikai, her arrival surprises both Byakuya and Ukitake. Hanatarō asks Rukia if she knows who Yoruichi is, she says no but she has heard the name before. Byakuya notes that she is the former Commander-in-Chief of the Onmitsukidō and the former Corps Commander of the Correction Corps. Byakuya remarks how he hasn't seen her face in a long time, noting that its been a few hundred years since her disappearance and that everyone thought she was dead. Ichigo asks Yoruichi if she has came to save him and thanks her but tells her that he is determined to defeat Byakuya. Before Ichigo can react Yoruichi is in front of him and she impales him with her hand right into his bandaged chest wound. Ichigo tries to ask her what she is doing before passing out. Ukitake comments that it is a drug, possibly either Gaten or Houten, and by releasing a strong tranquilizer directly into his body she must be trying to save him. Yoruichi acknowledges Ukitake as Byakuya asks her if she thinks he would allow it, while he refers to her as 'Senpai'. He then comments that she wont be able to get away so easily. Yoruichi questions him as to when did he learn to talk big? She asks him if he ever win even one against her in a game of tag. Byakuya asks should they try again. Then the two engage in a test of speed using Shunpo with Yoruichi carrying an unconscious Ichigo while still staying a step ahead of Byakuya, though he was quickly gaining on her, expressing that she will never escape him with that level of Shunpo as he attacks her and cuts her across the chest with his blade. Before Byakuya realizes it was a decoy and that Yoruichi is perched upon his outstretched arm, while carrying Ichigo. Yoruichi remarks to him that he can't catch her with that level of Shunpo and she quickly moves to the top a nearby building and yells down to Byakuya that in three days she will make Ichigo stronger then him. Until then the fight between the two will be on hold. As she uses Shunpo to leave she tells Byakuya that he can follow her if he chooses, but the "Goddess of Flash" will not be caught so easily.

Byakuya then proceeds to leave the area, with Ukitake calling out to him where he is going as the others are still here and aren't they the reason he came any way. Byakuya continues to walk away stating that he has lost his interest and that Ukitake can do whatever he want's to do with them.

After hearing of the execution date being moved up, Ukitake tries to convince Byakuya to do something, Byakuya tells him that he has heard from a Hell Butterfly that came to him previously. Ukitake tells him that he will get to the point, but Byakuya interrupts him telling him that he doesn't care. He explains that the execution has been moved to tomorrow and as that is what has been decided that he will honor their decision. He then tells Ukitake to not stop him for such unnecessary things in the future. Ukitake grabs Byakuya and tells him to stop joking, asking how he can say such things when the execution is tomorrow. The stress of the situation causes Ukitake to succumbs to his illness. Byakuya tells him not to stress as this isn't the first time he has lost a subordinate to his inability, and therefore it won't make a difference if he loses two or three more. Byakuya then states that Rukia is a member of his family and not Ukitake's, so even if she is killed it shouldn't concern him. He asks Ukitake to be reasonable and not to act recklessly.

Byakuya is at in his quarters praying at the shrine to his wife, when he is told that the execution is about to commence. He should make preparations to go to the Soukyoku. He then says goodbye to Hisana's picture and leaves to the execution grounds.

Sometime later Renji has escaped from jail and is beating his way through his fellow 6th Division members to get to Rukia, so that he may save her from execution. He then feels a strong spritual pressure. He looks to the top of a tower and sees Byakuya on top looking down at him. Byakuya asks him where he is going. He tells Byakuya that he is going to save Rukia, Byakuya plainly tells him that he is not going to do that. Renji asks if Byakuya will allow him to pass by peacefully, to which Byakuya tells him he wont say the same thing twice.

Byakuya uses Shunpo and appears behind Renji, but when goes to attack he surprised that Renji blocks him. Renji notes that Byakuya attempted to use "Senka", which is has favorite technique. He comments on how he has seen the move countless times and after so many times of following Byakuya's movements with his eyes, and now his body is fast enough to follow too. Renji follows up saying that Byakuya's sword can no longer kill him. Byakuya remarks that Renji is talking as if he has already won. He then asks what he is so confident about, cause with his level of strength did he really think he could break his his blade. Byakuya then releases his shikai, but before it can release Renji stops it with his shikai to Byakuya's surprise. Renji reiterates that Byakuya's sword can no longer kill him. He tells him that its not because he's his lieutenant, but because even before he joined the Gotei 13, the only one he has ever wanted to surpass was him. Byakuya notes that Renji just released his Zanpakuto without calling its name. Before he can finish what he was gonna say Renji releases his bankai.

Byakuya stands amid Renji's burst of spiritual energy upon his release of his bankai. Byakuya is somewhat surprised and asks since when has Renji been able to perform bankai. Renji plainly tells him that he will never know, since he never did care about his subordinates. Renji asks Byakuya again to save Rukia and in return Byakuya tells him that he will not say the same thing twice. Renji relents and says if not peacefully he will pass Byakuya by defeat. Byakuya tells him that its not possible, telling Renji that with his ability he can't even make his knees touch the ground. Renji goes to attack Byakuya who uses shunpo to move to the top of a nearby tower. Renji attacks the towers and only succeds in knocking Byakuya off, but even then Byakuya blocks the large bankai with his Zanpakuto. Byakuya conceads that Renji's power is truly at the level of bankai, but he feels that its time for the battle to end. Byakuya then releases his shikai destroying Renji's bankai, just as abruptly as Renji's bankai falls apart it reconstitutes itself. Renji then explains that he knows the technique of Senbonzakura well, however he tells Byakuya that Hihio Zabimaru's segments are connected by his spiritual energy and they cannot be cut apart by knives. Byakuya is noticeably surprised at this revelation, to which Renji asks why is he so surprised as he has already told him, he knows his sword inside and out. He then slams Hihio Zabimaru into the ground but Byakuya gets away barely causing him to land in a kneeled position. Renji comments that Byakuya's knee has touched the ground. He tells Byakuya that it is time to end this conflict.

Byakuya gets up and tells him if he wants to put an end to it thats fine but the curtain that falls down at the end shall be pulled down by the blade of his sword. Renji difiently tells him that he has already told him that he knows his sword in and out and the sword that will pull down the curtain will be his, as he goes to attack. Byakuya uses Hado #33. Soukatsui to cause a great amount of destruction in the area, causing Renji to have to use his Zanpakuto for protection. Renji realizes that the move has allowed Byakuya to hide his movements and he goes on the attack again, but Byakuya uses Shunpo to confuse him causing him to lose control of his bankai. Byakuya then tells him that he is the fool as he didn't use Kido to blind him, but to disrupt the rhythm of his bankai. Byakuya tells Renji the biggest flaw of bankai. He then tells Renji that it is too early for him to use bankai in battle. Renji refuses to give up and says that he knew that but says his Zanpakuto is not only bulky but durable, and even if it loses one or two segments it can still fight. Byakuya then uses Bakudo #61. Rikujyoukouro stopping Renji in his place. Byakuya then tells Renji to put away his sword and he will live, unless he is still dreaming about defeating him. He then asks Renji if he forgot or if it has never accured to him that he has bankai as well.<ref.Bleach manga; Chapter 142, page 1-10 Byakuya then release's his bankai, which obliterates the building behind Renji where it finally gets to him shredding him all over. Renji falls and Byakuya tells him the difference between the two of them. He states that its like the story of the monkey trying to catch the moon, however close he thinks he is to the moon, its nothing more then the reflection of the moon in the middle of the lake. No matter how much he struggles to capture the moon, he inevitably sinks to the bottom of the lake. He then tells Renji that his fangs will never be able to reach him.

Byakuya explains the power of his bankai and tells Renji that he should be proud, as someone who after being struck by his power, is still able to retain the form of his body. Renji stirs and Byakuya takes notice and tells him not to move as it will only shorten his life. But Renji refuses to give up and begins to stand and lunges at Byakuya, who use his bankai technique Senkei to incipacitate him. Byakuya then tells him that he congratulates him for being alive after being struck by his bankai. He then takes a sword and tells him that however as it maybe if he doesn't stop neither will he. Stating that with his sword he shall dice Renji to pieces. He states that he is sure that Renji knows that his bankai is now gone. Byakuya explains that when a bankai disappears without the permission of its master, that it means that the masters time of death is near. He then plainly states that if Renji chooses to get up he will kill him sooner, he then asks Renji if he still dreams of saving Rukia. Renji tells him that he of course he will as he swore to save her. Byakuya questions whom he has swore too, Renji tells him no one but to his soul, he then stands. He then runs toward Byakuya attempting to attack him but his sword breaks upon contact, failing as his injuries are to much to continue, he only succeeds in nicking Byakuya's face. Renji falls to the ground and Byakuya takes off his white scarf and throws it on top of Renji's body and tells him congratulations, as his fangs actually reached him, Byakuya then walks away.

Byakuya arrives at Rukia's execution, when Rukia goes to address him, he plainly turns his head and dismisses her. Rukia thanks Byakuya even though he still refuses to even look at her. As Rukia's execution commences Byakuya is greatly surprised by the interference and arrival of Ichigo Kurosaki. After Ichigo saves Rukia he gazes upon Byakuya who stares back. After Ichigo easily dispatches three lieutenants he ends up crossing swords with Byakuya who seemingly comes out of nowhere, with Ichigo telling him once again that he can see his every step.

Byakuya ask Ichigo why he keeps on trying to save Rukia. Ichigo asks him plainly that he is the one who should be asking the questions. Asking him in turn if he is Rukia's older brother, shouldn't he be trying to save her. Byakuya brushes it off as a pointless question and states that even if he was inclined to answer, Ichigo wouldn't understand. He then states the conversation is pointless and ready' for battle. The two clash and push themselves apart. Byakuya then tells Ichigo that he will kill him and with his own hands he will carry out Rukia's execution. Ichigo answers back that it wont happen, as he came to make sure of it. The two then charge toward each other.

Byakuya and Ichigo continue to battle. Byakuya states that he finds it interesting that Ichigo was able to master shunpo, but before he can finish Ichigo interrupts him, stating that Byakuya has been casually analyzing his strength, questioning his strategy as he should be focusing more on attacking him. Ichigo begins to taunt Byakuya stating that he hasn't scratched him once and wondering if his current level of fighting is the best he is capable, telling him to hurry up and use bankai. Ichigo resolves to beat Byakuya no matter what seeing as he can't stand the fact that a brother would say such a thing as he would kill his own sister. He then tells Byakuya to use his bankai so that he can destroy it and after he will take him to Rukia so that he can apologize to her. Byakuya tells him that his taunts are meaningless and he wont change his mind about Rukia's fate or Ichigo's. He plainly states that Ichigo should know his place and that it would take a thousand years before Ichigo was worthy of dying by his bankai, he then releases his shikai but Ichigo blocks that attack with a blast of spiritual energy.

The effect of Ichigo's attack results in a large explosion which injures Byakuya's left hand, prompting him to ask if that attack was an ability of his Zanpakuto. When the smoke clears a large fissure is evident where the attack took place leading right toward Byakuya. Ichigo confirms what the ability is, stating that he has never been able to aim the shot before today. He then explains how he learned the technique and tells Byakuya its name Getsuga Tenshō, once again Ichigo tells him to fight with his bankai. Byakuya remarks at how arrogant the name of the attack is, but he relents and decides that since Ichigo wants to see his bankai so bad that he will show him. He tells Ichigo to witness it with his own eyes and tells Ichigo to remember it well and to not to worry he wont regret it. As before he can he will be certainly rendered into dust before him, Byakuya then releases his bankai. Ichigo backs off from the oncoming attack and uses his Getsuga Tenshō to attack Byakuya but its blocked by Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, Ichigo is taken by surprised as Byakuya's attack overwhelms him and crushes him into the ground. Byakuya explains the strength of his bankai and tells Ichigo that it's impossible to dodge his attack with such a slow technique. The smoke clears and a grievously injured Ichigo lays upon the ground. Ichigo begins to get up and he admits his error at using only his shikai, it would be impossible to beat bankai admitting he underestimated Byakuya. Byakuya is unimpressed and tells him that he should choose his words more carefully as he is talking as though he has already achieved bankai, but Ichigo stands and tells him that's exactly what he is implying.

Following Ichigo's inner Hollow's forced submission, both channel all their remaining power into one final attack, resulting in Byakuya's sword breaking and Byakuya forfeiting the match. Later, when Sōsuke Aizen orders Gin Ichimaru to kill Rukia, Byakuya pulls her out of the attack and takes it instead. While being treated for his massive injuries, Byakuya, breaking his promise to Hisana, tells Rukia about why she was adopted, apologizing to Rukia and thanking Ichigo.

Bount arc
When the Bounts' threat to harm Soul Society becomes serious, Byakuya uses the Kuchiki Clan's records to gain information on the Bount for General Yamamoto. Byakuya, following aiding Rukia in her battle with Yoshi, attempts to seek out the Bount leader Jin Kariya, where the two have a battle interrupted by Ichigo and, later on, Ran'tao, and later watches Ichigo's battle with Kariya with full confidence in Ichigo.

Arrancar arc
Byakuya later reappears to retrieve Tōshirō Hitsugaya's team on General Yamamoto's order, and secretly allows Rukia and Renji to return to the human world to assist in Orihime's rescue, stating that he was only ordered to bring them back to Soul Society and that what they chose to do afterwards was none of his concern.

Hueco Mundo arc
Byakuya later appears in the Hueco Mundo arc to save Rukia from the 7th Espada, Zommari Leroux. He clearly shows anger at Zommari's statement about preparing to kill Rukia. The two begin their battle and Byakuya, reluctantly using a technique learned from Yoruichi Shihōin, manages to evade Zommari, who claims to be the fastest Espada. Zommari states that Byakuya's pride and arrogance will be the reason for Byakuya's defeat, while Byakuya retorts that simply the difference in their power will result in Zommari's loss. Zommari maintains that, as captain and Espada, the two are equal, but Byakuya denies that any Arrancar could be equal to him. To crush his arrogance, Zommari releases his Zanpakutō. Using its power, Zommari takes control of Byakuya's left arm and leg, causing Byakuya to promptly sever the tendons in each to prevent their movement. Zommari implies that he will next take control of Rukia's unconscious form and, enraged, Byakuya shields her with his body.

Hanatarō Yamada follows Byakuya to the battlefield, but Byakuya orders Hanatarō back, warning him that in his rage, Byakuya's fighting may swallow up Hanatarō. Zommari succeeds in taking control of Rukia's head, thus taking control of her entire body, and after having her slash Hanatarō across the chest, warns Byakuya to drop his sword or Rukia will slit her own throat. Restraining Rukia with Binding Spell #61, Six Rods Prison of Light, Byakuya activates his Bankai and crushes Zommari with the form Gōkei.

Zommari survives this encounter by retreating into the lower half of his Zanpakutō's released state and angrily shouts at Byakuya that Shinigami are arrogant, taking an unnatural authority to proclaim Hollows as evil. Byakuya, impassive, states that he was not fighting Zommari because Byakuya is a Shinigami, but because Zommari attacked Byakuya's pride and kills Zommari with a slash from the shoulder down.

Byakuya then instructs Isane Kotetsu to come out of her hiding place and take care of Rukia and Hanatarō. Rukia Kuchiki wakes up while being healed and is shocked to see his haori missing and him being injured, but Byakuya merely brushes off her concern and tells her to rest as there is a much bigger fight forthcoming.

Zanpakutō Unknown Tales arc
Byakuya is initially seen engaging Renji Abarai in a training session while many Shinigami, including Captains Shunsui Kyōraku and Jūshirō Ukitake, look on. During the battle, when Byakuya activates Bankai, Muramasa calls out to his Zanpakutō, telling it to hear his voice. This causes one of the blades to cut Byakuya's arm, much to his surprise. However, he is able to continue using it, at least for a while. After a couple of attacks, though, he seals his Zanpakutō and Renji notes that something seems to be wrong. He simply dismisses him, saying they are done for the day.

He is later one of the Shinigami called to Sōkyoku Hill for an emergency meeting. It is there that he first meets Muramasa, and witnesses his Zanpakutō materializing and joining Muramasa's side. He questions Muramasa as to who he is, and then engages in the following battles.

He is seen having followed Rukia Kuchiki and Renji, and saves the former from being attacked by Gonryōmaru. Muramasa commends him for being a formidable enemy and sends Senbonzakura to fight him. After a brief, initial confrontation using only katanas, Senbonzakura then activates Shikai and sends a thousand blades after Byakuya. Byakuya is seen fleeing, while Rukia calls on in concern, and is supposedly swallowed by the thousand blades.

Powers & Abilities
Byakuya, as the 6th Division's Shinigami Captain, has advanced skills in all forms of Shinigami combat.



Master Swordsmanship Specialist: Byakuya is masterful at swordsmanship, capable of flawless precision and lethal attacks without much effort.

Flash Step Master: Byakuya is probably best known for his usage of Flash steps. Although having been taught by but never beating "Goddess of Flash" Yoruichi Shihōin, he is still easily one of the most proficient users of this skill in all of Soul Society. One of Byakuya's favorite technique as described by Renji is, a flash step combined with a spin to quickly move behind the enemy, followed by a strike aimed to destroying the Saketsu chain and the Hakusui soul sleep with a single thrust. Another technique taught to him by Yoruichi called which allows Byakuya to move at great speed leaving an afterimage behind, though Byakuya states to Zommari that he prefers not to use it because Yoruichi Shihōin taught it to him.

Kidō Master: Byakuya has displayed his knowledge of high level Kidō spells, able to cast several in quick succession without the incantation and with almost no effort and still possessing formidable power. He has been shown to use spells up to level 81 and possess advanced knowledge of kidō application and consistency. He can use low-level spells with devastating effect as well as a counter to attacks, He even uses a low-level lightning spell to burn a hole right through Ichigo's shoulder.

Master Tactician: Byakuya is a highly perceptive fighter, being able to almost immediately determine an opponent's attack patterns and weaknesses. He is also crafty tactician as demonstrated from how effectively he uses his Kidō to confuse his opponents. He can discern the motives and abilities of his opponents and effectively use his knowledge to end the battle in his favor.

Enhanced Durability: While not having the most imposing appearance compared to other Shinigami captains like Kenpachi Zaraki, Byakuya has shown to be a very resilient fighter. During his fight against Ichigo, despite gaining several major injuries, Byakuya was able to continue fighting effectively and even ignore them to the point he seemed unfazed by them. At the end of fight, he was still able to perform an impressive Flash Step to leave. During his fight with the 7th Espada, Byakuya's durability proved great enough for him to willingly damage himself to escape from this enemy's possession attack and continue to fight as if unaffected.

Immense Spiritual Energy: He is capable of exerting vast Spiritual Pressure, which, in league with his already admirable combat skills and finesse, makes him one of the most formidable captains.

Zanpakutō
Senbonzakura redirects here. For the manifested spirit that appears in the Zanpakutō Unknown Tales arc see Senbonzakura (spirit).


 * A regular katana, with only the crossguard distinguishes it, mostly by being almost not there. Senbonzakura's crossguard is a simple open frame, much like a 4-pane window. It has a light blue handle.


 * Shikai: It is triggered by the command.


 * Shikai Special Ability: In its Shikai, Senbonzakura's blade separates into a thousand slender tiny blade fragments, which then fly away from the hilt, leaving only the sword's handle in Byakuya's hand. The release can be negated before it completes, such as when Yoruichi Shihōin wrapped the blade in cloth during Byakuya's short battle with Ichigo. However, if the release completes itself, then Senbozakura is rendered near-unstoppable as a result. While the blades are supposedly too small to see normally, they reflect light in such a way as to appear as cherry blossom petals. By swinging Senbonzakura's hilt Byakuya can control the blade fragments at will, allowing him to shred opponents at a distance and break through almost any defense.


 * Bankai: : is essentially a much larger version of Senbonzakura's Shikai. To activate it, Byakuya needs to drop his sword straight down. The sword phases into the ground, as though it were a pool of water. Energy ripples expand out, turning the surrounding area dark, and within seconds two rows of giant blades rise up from the ground. These giant blades then explode, and scatter into a near-infinite number of tiny blades. The number of blades is great enough that Byakuya can use them for defense as well as offense at the same time. He commonly forms them into large masses, designed to obliterate opponents instantaneously. Byakuya's defensive use allows him to cover himself entirely in these tiny blades, and form a body shield. Unlike his Shikai, his Bankai is entirely mentally controlled. As it moves through the air like torrents of waves, it gives the appearance of cherry blossoms flowing swiftly along the wind. While Byakuya can control the blades with his mind alone, using his hands allows him to do so more effectively, making the blades move almost twice as fast. Like with his Shikai, its attack is triggered with the phrase Scatter.


 * Bankai Special Ability: Byakuya's Bankai has several forms, achieved by arranging the blades in different patterns. Each form presents a different advantage, such as increasing offense at the expense of defense. This makes Senbonzakura Kageyoshi one of the most versatile Bankai in the series. These techniques are activated by saying the name of the technique, followed by the name of his Bankai, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi.


 * The true form of Senbonzakura is seemingly created by his blood, which glows and turns into spiritual energy mixing with the tiny blades of his Bankai. This unites the scattered petals into complete glowing swords, numbering in the thousands, that form four rows. These rows float just above the other, and circle around Byakuya and his opponent in a continuously moving, column-like array. It abandons defense in favor of a concentrated offense. Though visually menacing, this form is not meant for attack from all sides; rather, it is to concentrate his power into fewer blades, thus increasing his attack power. While Byakuya can mentally control these swords as he does his regular blades, he commonly calls them to his hands for actual melee combat. When in his hand they lose their glow, and take the form of his sealed Zanpakutō. While they seem solid in this state, the swords can just as easily dissipate back into the multitude of tiny blades that they are made of. It seems to take fewer blows from a Senkei blade to gravely injure an opponent than the multiple cuts needed from the unfocused Bankai. The Senkei also cages himself with his enemy, allowing neither combatant to move very far from each other, though the area is still large enough for maneuverability. The most effective use of the Senkei form is that it allows for use of all the swords at the same attack level, making it highly versatile as a way to effectively defeat an enemy unaware of the danger of the situation. It is extremely rare for him to use this ability, doing so only when he has sworn to cut down the opponent with his very own hands. Ichigo was the second being to ever witness the ability. In Bleach: The DiamondDust Rebellion, it was also seen that Senkei can be used as a powerful shield, blocking several Cero blasts from Menos-class Hollows at once.


 * This form increases the number of tiny blades immensely. It creates a spherical formation of over 100 million tiny blade fragments, which swirl around the opponent like a cloud. It then flies into them from every possible angle, leaving no blind spots and no possibility to escape. It was strong enough to completely obliterate a very large building from the inside out, and the resulting shockwave generated by the attack is so powerful that Byakuya himself has to Flash Step away (Byakuya is normally immune to the cutting effects of his own Bankai, evident by the fact that he could wield the swords generated by its Senkei formation with bare hands without cutting himself).


 * This condenses each and every single one of his blades into a single, potent sword, drastically increasing its cutting power. The spiritual energy and pressure of this form released is immense. The blade appears bright white and its aura takes the form of a bird, earning it the name . Pure white wings form on Byakuya's back, as well a halo-like circle, made of concentrated spiritual energy. It is unknown whether these wings are merely an aesthetic effect or if they can be used to fly. The blade in this form is dangerous enough to cause aggravated injuries in one single blow. Whether or not this form allows only one single attack or more is as yet unknown.

Relationships
Byakuya Kuchiki was the chief antagonist during the Soul Society arc. Following Aizen's emergence into Hueco Mundo, Byakuya is now viewed as a supporting deuteragonist in the series, occasionally assisting the Ryoka whenever necessary. While not as prominent as Kenpachi Zaraki or Tōshirō Hitsugaya, Byakuya has encountered a number of characters in the series, though not nearly as much as Ichigo.

Rukia Kuchiki
Byakuya originally struggled with his feelings for Rukia and his duty as a captain when she was arrested. After his defeat at the the hands of Ichigo, Byakuya reconciled, and began to treat Rukia like a sibling. In many situations, those who threaten or even fight Rukia are destined to die if Byakuya is in the area. In his battle with Zommari Leroux, he did not initially use his Shikai, but in his quiet fury immediately released his Bankai. His rage at Zommari for even implyng a threat to Rukia causes him to use his Gokei Senbonzakura Kageyoshi formation, a technique so devastating Byakuya himself had to remove himself from the area to not be affected by the attack. After the battle, Zommari says the killing of Hollow by Shinigami is unjust. Byakuya replied he hadn't killed him as a Shinigami; the reason was "because [Zommari] pointed such a dull blade at [his] pride," a reference to Rukia as his honor. Even though his emotions are so deep, Byakuya continues to treat her as coldly as he does to others.

Ichigo Kurosaki
Byakuya is highly disdainful of Ichigo; he views him as a naughty and rude child who needs a good lesson in manners. On one occasion, he summoned Ichigo to his estate merely to remind him to refer to him in a more formal manner. However, Byakuya does respect his power and fighting spirit, and the fierce will to protect all that is dear to him. He also thinks along the same lines as Ichigo, as when Byakuya was around the same age, he acted in the same manner. It is often implied that Byakuya wishes to take the same actions that Ichigo does, but his sense of duty prevents him from doing so.

Renji Abarai
Byakuya's relationship with Renji on the surface seems only to be a working relationship, however, it it much more that that. For most of his life, Renji had been training for one purpose and one purpose only: to surpass his captain. In the Hueco Mundo Arc, Byakuya and Kenpachi are ordered to bring Hitsugaya's vanguard Shinigami team, including Rukia and Renji, back to Soul Society. Despite his threats to use force if necessary to bring them back, he later shows his heart is not in this order by giving them cloaks for the desert of Hueco Mundo, and bends the rules by saying he was merely required to bring them back, not to make sure they stayed. In part this is a show of his support for Ichigo, which he masks by saying "I would be sorry for the state of Hueco Mundo if that idiot was left to his own devices." Byakuya shows his respect for Renji's rising power and iron will, similar to Ichigo's. During the battle that Byakuya initiates to stop Renji from rescuing Rukia, he continually says that Renji's power is inferior to his, comparing their situation to the "fable of the monkey and the moon," a reference to the baboon-like spirit of Renji's sword, and says "Your fangs will never reach me. For all eternity." However, he rescinds this opinion at the end, when Renji's stubborn last attack ends in Zabimaru shattering on contact with Byakuya. Byakuya responds by removing his scarf (The Kuchiki head family heirloom, made of 'ginpaku kazahana no uzuginu' silk,) and draping over his Lieutenant's fallen body, saying, "Impressive. Your fangs have certainly reached me." With this, he acknowledges the bond they have and his respect, and leaves.

Quotes

 * "Scatter, Senbonzakura."


 * "Bankai. Scatter, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi."


 * "That filthy brat will never survive Hueco Mundo if he is left to his own devices."


 * "How slow. Even when you're falling down." (To Ichigo Kurosaki)


 * "I have discarded my left arm, discarded my left leg. And yet even so... I have not nearly lowered myself to your level." (To Zommari Leroux)


 * "I've rescinded your right to live because you aspired to cut my pride with such a dull blade."


 * "When did I claim I would kill you as a shinigami? The reason why I have killed you is simply because you pointed your blade at my pride."


 * "Shall I tell you the difference between you and I? It's class. It's like the story of the monkey trying to capture the moon. No matter how he struggles, it's just the moon's reflection on the water he sees. So he only sinks into the water. Time after time, he sinks." (To Renji)


 * "With your ability, you will find it impossible to make me fall on even one knee." (To Renji)


 * "Congratulations. Very admirable. That time, your fang definitely reached me." (To Renji)


 * "Do you enjoy trampling on my pride?"'


 * "In case you've forgotten, or if perhaps it didn't occur to you, I'll remind you Renji that I, too, have bankai."

Appearance in other media
Byakuya is playable in most Bleach video games, many having his bankai available as well. He has also appeared in every movie released to this date. He has his own Bleach beat collection, "Yozora No Kawa" and "Listen to One Story."

Trivia

 * Byakuya is one of the few captains (the others being Shigekuni Yamamoto-Genryūsai, Kenpachi Zaraki, Jūshirō Ukitake, and Tōshirō Hitsugaya) who interact with Ichigo in the both the Manga and the Anime.


 * Despite having beautiful handwriting, Byakuya has horrible drawing skills like Rukia. It is possible that Hisana taught him.


 * Senbonzakura is the one of two known Zanpakutō with a Bankai that has a release command, the other being Mayuri Kurotsuchi's Ashisogi Jizō.


 * There is a possibility that Byakuya knows of Yoruichi Shihōin's cat transformation because in the Turn Back The Pendulum Mini-Series he called her a Were-Cat when she arrived, just before she stole his hair ribbon.


 * His zanpakutō, Senbonzakura, was voted the 5th most popular zanpakutō in a recent Bleach Poll.


 * Byakuya is the third captain that Ichigo Kurosaki faced in Sereitei and the first that he "fought" in the real world.


 * Byakuya is also the first to see Ichigo's Bankai and the beginning signs of his Vizard powers and Inner Hollow, all in that order and within minutes of each other.


 * He is the first Shinigami shown able to activate Bankai with his zanpakutō in its sealed state.


 * His theme song, as chosen by Tite Kubo, is Giovanni Mirabassi's "Je Chante Pour Passer Le Temps"


 * During his fight with Ichigo, Byakuya comments that he has only shown the true form of Senbonzakura (Senkei) to one other person. Even Ichigo said he was honored to fight against it, signifying Byakuya's pride in it.


 * In his first appearance, Byakuya wasn't wearing his Captain's haori.

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