Bleached Ichigo

Bleach Manga Chapter 9: Monster and a Transfer pt.1 (Struck Down)

Rukia runs after Chad, but is frustrated of the physical limitations of her Gigai (or artificial body). She is running out of breath and quickly falling behind Chad. But suddenly a voice calls to her from behind; it is the Hollow (Shrieker) which had been stalking Chad and the parakeet.

Once Ichigo brought Karin in her bed, he immediately rushes back to help Rukia. This incident concerns Ichigo because it is the first time Karin has cried since their mother passed away. Ichigo promises that he will carry out Karin’s wishes and save the spirit in the parakeet.

The Hollow is intrigued by the smell of Rukia’s soul and attacks her. Rukia launches a counterattack and uses an offensive demon arts incantation called Blue Fireball at close range. But Rukia’s powers are still weak and the attack is ineffective. The Hollow recognizes the attack and figures out that Rukia is a Shinigami. He reveals to Rukia that he has eaten two Shinigamis so far who came to release the spirit inside the parakeet.

A short distance away, Chad hears the sound of fighting behind him. He places the possessed parakeet on a fence before running back to help. The Hollow has Rukia pinned to a wall, but suddenly Chad rushes in and lands a solid punch on the Hollow’s head. From Chad’s movements, it’s obvious he cannot see the Hollow. Yet he has excellent instincts and manages to punch the Hollow a second time just by guessing its location.

The Hollow is a flying type and takes to the air using its bat-like wings. Rukia tells Chad to run, but Chad asks her to guide him. With sheer strength alone, Chad snaps off an entire utility pole and asks Rukia which direction to aim. Rukia tells Chad where the Hollow is, and with one swing Chad swats it back to the ground.