Looks like another week in which my predictions were dead wrong. Regardless, did anyone really see Yamamoto not having defeated the real Juha Bach?

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Chapter 509 essentially seemed to provide a conclusive ending to the entire Stern Ritter rampage on Soul Society. Captain Commander Yamamoto effortlessly wiped him out in about five or so chapters of non stop action. His combat prowess, enhanced by his multifaceted and epic Bankai, ought to have enabled him to be the conduit to have reached the arc’s conclusive fight.

Unfortunately, Kubo had other plans. As if to provide solid evidence that the Stern Ritter are serious about their intentions, he had this one, Lloyd served as the scapegoat for the entire operating. Mouths were no doubt agape when the first pages were revealed showing that there were characters among the Stern Ritter capable of copying bodies and abilities in some fashion. Captain Commander and readers were fooled. Marvelous.

The reign of Captain Commander Yamamoto seems to be coming to a close. With the first squad barracks destroyed, his lieutenant commander dead, and now his Bankai sealed, he has no one or anywhere to turn too. Will he really kick the bucket now that the real Juha Bach has stolen his Bankai? With Juha Bach having enough spiritual energy to withstand the incredible power that Captain Commander’s Bankai contains, who else is able to match him in strength?

Overall, the chapter was pleasing on numerous fronts. For people who like surprises, the reveal of the twin character, Lloyd, being the scapegoat for understanding Yamamoto’s Bankai was worthwhile. For those who like seeing their favorite characters make returns, they were treated to Aizen-sama. And for those who like to be kept on the edge of their seats, well, they were able to see Captain Commander’s fall from power. Where will the story go next and will Ichigo get involved? I hope so.

GO Rating: 4/5

[mangastream]