In the last episode of Bleach, Yumichika was able to defeat Charlotte Cuuhlhorne using his secret technique – the Ruri Iro Kujaku (Azure Peacock). By unleashing the real form of his Zanpaktou, Yumichika is able to drain all the reisatsu and life out of Charlotte while they were both covered in the dark Rose Bush which was ironically a skill of Charlotte. In Bleach 218, the focus now shifts to the battle of Kira and the Aguila Arrancar. There’s a slight intro for the other Vice-Captains but bulk of the episode is really with Kira. Review of Bleach Episode 218 after the break.

Bleach 218 Review

Bleach Episode 218 starts off with Yumichika having his last conversation with Charlotte. He explains that the reason why he only used that technique at that point in time because he was ashamed of Kidou-based attacks. The 11th Squad looks down on techniques like that and he would rather die than be seen in public using it. When Charlotte used the Rose Bush that hid both of them from everyone else, he unknowingly gave Yumichika the chance to use Ruri Iro Kujaku.

The focus of the episode is on Kira and the Arrancar that looks like a red Big Bird from Sesame Street. Initially, Kira has a hard time fighting against him since he’s air based. Aguila uses his wings to attack with steel-like feathers. Kira resorts to several tactics – from hiding, running away, to Kidou attacks but most of them don’t work. Tired of seeing Kira run away and evade his attacks, Aguila reveals two more wings, which enhances his speed dramatically. He goes close range with Kira and at this point, just like in the Yumichika-Charlotte fight, the Arrancar gives up the advantage and falls prey to the Shinigami.

While in melee range, Kira releases his Zanpaktou and strikes Aguila’s wings several times. The ability of Kira’s Wabisuke is that it doubles the weight of whatever it strikes. Aguila falls to the ground and Kira goes on and gives a lecture on why he believes his sword really embodies the values of the 11th Squad. Aguila is not done yet though as he manages to launch one final attack, which is again countered by Kira. Kira strikes the wings again and finishes the fight off by decapitating Aguila.

Personally I thought the episode was a bit boring and the animation was kinda dull. However, I liked that fact that the writers decided to give more exposure for the Vice-Captains so that they can be developed some more. People are already sick of Ichigo so it’s good to see other people in Bleach fighting.