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{{Quotes|S|Ideals? Don't make me laugh. There are no ideals in this world. We're all left with only one thing: the despair of not being able to make those ideals come true.|{{Color|White|'''Kōga Kuchiki''' in}} '''[[Dark History! The Worst Shinigami is Born|{{Color|White|Episode 251}}]]'''}}
 
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{{Bleach Wiki:Character Template (Shinigami)
 
{{Bleach Wiki:Character Template (Shinigami)
| title ={{PAGENAME}}
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|title = {{PAGENAME}}
| image = [[Image:Koga 250.jpg|250px]]
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|image = [[Image:252Koga alt 3.png|250px]]
| race =[[Soul]]
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|race = [[Soul]]
| gender =Male
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|gender = Male
  +
| previous affiliation =[[Gotei 13]], [[Soul Society]], [[Kuchiki Clan|Kuchiki Family]]
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|previous affiliation = [[Gotei 13]], [[Soul Society]], [[Kuchiki Clan|Kuchiki Family]]
| profession = [[Shinigami]]
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|profession = [[Shinigami]]
| previous position =3rd Seat of the [[6th Division]]
 
| previous division =[[Image:6.jpeg]][[Sixth Division|6th Division]]
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|previous position = 3rd Seat of the [[6th Division]]
| previous partner =[[Ginrei Kuchiki]]<br>[[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)|Muramasa]]
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|previous division = [[Image:6.jpeg]][[Sixth Division|6th Division]]
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|previous partner = [[Ginrei Kuchiki]]<br>[[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)|Muramasa]]
| base of operations =None
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|base of operations = None
| relatives =[[Unnamed Kuchiki|Unnamed Wife]] <br> [[Ginrei Kuchiki]] (Father-in-law) <br> [[Byakuya Kuchiki]] (Nephew) [[Rukia Kuchiki]] (niece)
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|relatives = [[Unnamed Kuchiki|Unnamed Wife]] <br> [[Ginrei Kuchiki]] (Father-in-law) <br> [[Byakuya Kuchiki]] (Nephew) [[Rukia Kuchiki]] (niece)
| shikai ='''Muramasa'''
 
  +
| bankai ='''None'''
 
 
|shikai = '''Muramasa'''
| signature skill =Illusions
 
 
|bankai = '''Not Achieved'''
| anime debut = [[Dragon of Ice and Dragon of Flame! The Strongest Showdown!|Episode 248]]
 
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| japanese voice = [[wikipedia:Isshin Chiba|Isshin Chiba]]
 
 
|signature skill =Illusions
| english voice = [[wikipedia:David Vincent (actor)|David Vincent]]
 
  +
| spanish voice =
 
 
|anime debut = [[Dragon of Ice and Dragon of Flame! The Strongest Showdown!|Episode 248]]
  +
 
|japanese voice = [[wikipedia:Isshin Chiba|Isshin Chiba]]
 
|english voice = [[wikipedia:David Vincent (actor)|David Vincent]]
 
|spanish voice =
 
}}
 
}}
{{Translation|'''Kōga Kuchiki'''|朽木 響河|Kuchiki Kōga}} is a former 3rd Seat of the [[Sixth Division|6th Division]] who later revolted against the [[Seireitei]]. He was also a member of the Kuchiki noble family, having married into it.
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{{Translation|'''Kōga Kuchiki'''|朽木 響河|Kuchiki Kōga}} is a former 3rd Seat of the [[6th Division]] who later revolted against the [[Seireitei]]. He was also a member of the [[Kuchiki Clan]], having married into it.
   
 
==Appearance==
 
==Appearance==
[[Image:KogaEp250.png|thumb|190px|left|Young Kōga.]]
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[[Image:KogaEp250.png|thumb|190px|left|Kōga before he was sealed.]]
Kōga has piercing green eyes and shoulder length black hair and a long ponytail of red hair, with short tufts of red hair on the left side of his head, and bangs that hang on the right side of his face to frame it. When he was a member of the Gotei 13 he wore a standard Shinigami shihakushō, along with a long red scarf and a light lavender obi sash, with a beaded-necklace with a pendent. He also wore an intricate white headpiece called ''kenseikan'' on the left side of his head to symbolize his nobility that held his ponytail in place with red tufts of hair sticking out (which he later cut off to relinquish his status as a Kuchiki).<ref name="ep250"/>
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Kōga is a well-toned man with piercing green eyes, shoulder-length black hair, and a long ponytail of red hair, with bangs hanging on the right side of his face to frame it. When he was a member of the [[Gotei 13]], he wore a standard Shinigami ''shihakushō'' with the addition of a long red scarf, a light lavender obi sash, and a beaded necklace with a pendant. He also wore an intricate white headpiece called ''kenseikan'', which symbolized his nobility, on the left side of his head to hold his ponytail in place with red tufts of hair sticking out, though he later cut it off to relinquish his status as a Kuchiki.<ref name="e250">''Bleach'' anime; Episode 250</ref>
   
While originally his appearance was youthful and fit, after several hundred years sealed away, his physical form has been reduced to a withered and malnourished version of his former self. While he was imprisoned, he was adorned with a mouth mask and gauntlets around his wrists. These remained on him after his jailbreak, but the mask was cut with only the part on the bridge of his nose remained. While his scarf and necklace remain, his ''shihakushō'' is torn, leaving him bare-chested.<ref name="ep251"/>
+
While originally his appearance was youthful and fit, after several hundred years sealed away, Kōga's physical form has been reduced to a withered and malnourished version of his former self. While he was imprisoned, he was adorned with a mouth mask and gauntlets around his wrists. These remained on him after his jailbreak, but the mask was cut, with only the part on the bridge of his nose remained. While his scarf and necklace remain, his ''shihakushō'' is torn, leaving him bare-chested.<ref name="e251">''Bleach'' anime; Episode 251</ref>
   
 
==Personality==
 
==Personality==
  +
Originally, Kōga is a very headstrong man, willing to rush headlong into battle at any moment in order to turn the tide. He has a habit of referring to his father-in-law, [[Ginrei Kuchiki]], informally during battle, but is apologetic about it when Ginrei points it out. He is confident in his own power, and is confused by Ginrei reprimanding him for this, but is usually humble about his actions. Kōga believes strongly in his mission of achieving peace, and is willing to lay down his life in order to see his goal realized. He frequently goes to [[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)|Muramasa]] for counsel on his affairs. Deep down, Kōga wishes for Ginrei to openly acknowledge his achievements, and is saddened and angered when he does not. Despite his pride, Kōga possesses enough self-control to listen to reason, surrendering to the [[Onmitsukidō]] instead of fighting back when he is framed for murder. However, his overconfidence eventually leads to Kōga being betrayed by allied officers, and his resulting imprisonment and announced punishment lead Kōga to believe Ginrei does not have faith in him. Kōga is convinced by Muramasa that he should use his power to change the world, but asserts that he is the master and will not be controlled by his [[Zanpakutō]] spirit, marking the start of his downward spiral into madness.<ref name="e250"/>
Kōga is a man with a true sense of duty and a commitment to making his family proud. He always tried to remain humble and serious to situations at hand. On the inside, however, Kōga was a man who deeply desired to be acknowledged for his abilities and hard work. Despite being told repeatedly by his father-in-law, [[Ginrei Kuchiki]], to keep his rash actions under control, Kōga would never understand why Ginrei refused to praise his accomplishments, and continued to rush into every situation without hesitation.<ref name="ep250"/> Even after being framed and imprisoned, Kōga failed to realize it was his overconfidence which resulted in his predicament; instead, he was resentful at Ginrei for not acknowledging him.<ref name="ep251"/>
 
   
  +
After being freed from prison, Kōga is much more ruthless, mercilessly attacking and killing the conspirators who put him in jail. However, he still retained enough morality to give them the benefit of the doubt and believe they may have been misguided, though he was proven wrong upon finding them laughing at his imprisonment. Additionally, Kōga initially regrets his violent actions because he realizes it did not change anything, and is horrified to learn he can no longer prove his innocence before a tribunal. However, Kōga's conversation with Ginrei proves to be the tipping point for his sanity, and he begins to believe everyone hates him and is jealous of his power, leading to him renouncing his ties to the [[Kuchiki Clan]] by cutting off his ''kenseikan''. Initially, Kōga only kills those who attack him on a principle of kill or be killed, but eventually begins slaughtering helpless [[Rukongai]] denizens, which he justifies by claiming he is sending a message of hopelessness to [[Soul Society]]. Additionally, Kōga's paranoia and hatred lead to his bond with Muramasa slowly degrading over time, which is further worsened when Kōga physically abuses him over a perceived insult, leading to Kōga being unable to release his Zanpakutō at all. Kōga comes to enjoy despair, and claims it unleashes his true power by making him realize there are no ideals in the world. He believes power maintains all order in the world, and asserts that his evil will become good if he is the most powerful. Kōga firmly believes a Zanpakutō is simply a tool for killing, and should not be treated on an equal level to its master, a belief which he follows when he attempts to kill Muramasa.<ref name="e251"/>
After being framed and realizing that his life as he knew it was gone forever, he had a mental breakdown, causing him to become consumed by his anger and desire to stand in greatness, leading him to become immensely arrogant in his power to the point of viewing all others as worthless, even his own Zanpakutō, [[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)|Muramasa]]. He came to believe that a Zanpakutō is simply a tool that is expected to follow its master's every whim, and can easily be replaced, leading to him being abusive towards his own blade, turning a blind eye on the kindness of the sole individual who remained faithful to him, and ultimately severing his bond with Muramasa.<ref name="ep251"/>
 
  +
  +
Even after Muramasa frees him from his [[Shisō Kekkai|seal]] several hundred years later, Kōga is very disrespectful, making light of the event of Ginrei's alleged death to his grandson, [[Byakuya Kuchiki]], and frequently referring to Byakuya as "''youngster''". He holds a particular grudge against the Kuchiki Clan, agreeing to fight Byakuya solely because he is the current Head of the Kuchiki Clan and claiming the clan is full of arrogance. Additionally, Kōga's own confidence grows to the point where he intentionally severs his bond with Muramasa because he believes his own power is enough to handle Byakuya. He believes Zanpakutō are simply tools for which there are countless replacements. Kōga is incredibly proud of his own power; he claims his illusions are more than simple illusions, and believes that he is the most powerful [[Shinigami]] to ever live, which is why he does not need a Zanpakutō.<ref name="e252">''Bleach'' anime; Episode 252</ref>
   
 
==History==
 
==History==
 
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[[Image:Koga releases his Zanpakuto against the rebels.png|thumb|left|190px|Kōga releases his Zanpakutō against the rebels.]]
 
[[Image:Koga releases his Zanpakuto against the rebels.png|thumb|left|190px|Kōga releases his Zanpakutō against the rebels.]]
Several hundred years before the current time, Kōga was welcomed into the Kuchiki Clan as the son-in-law of Ginrei Kuchiki. He soon gained much respect throughout Soul Society. He, in his capacity as the 3rd Seat of the [[6th Division]], participated in a battle between the loyalist and rebel factions of Soul Society, winning a decisive victory for the loyalist side single-handedly. For his role Kōga was given much praise and accolades from Captain-Commander [[Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto]] himself.<ref name="ep250">''Bleach'' anime; Episode 250</ref>
+
Several hundred years ago, Kōga was welcomed into the [[Kuchiki Clan]] as the son-in-law of [[Ginrei Kuchiki]], and soon gained much respect throughout [[Soul Society]]. He, in his capacity as the 3rd Seat of the [[6th Division]], participated in a battle between the loyalist and rebel factions of Soul Society, winning a decisive victory for the loyalist side by himself. For his performance, Kōga was given much praise and many accolades from Captain-Commander [[Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto]] himself.<ref name="e250"/>
   
[[Image:Koga's skills in battle are praised by Yamamoto.png|thumb|right|190px|In recognition of his skills, Kōga is placed in charge of a special contingency force.]]
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[[Image:Koga's skills in battle are praised by Yamamoto.png|thumb|right|190px|Kōga is put in charge of a special contingency force.]]
Ginrei grew increasingly concerned about Kōga's overconfidence in his powers and made a point to address that he needed to control himself. Kōga took this in stride, but never could understand why Ginrei never acknowledged any of his achievements. He would increasingly speak to his Zanpakutō, [[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)|Muramasa]], about this, which only increased his overconfidence. As he engaged in battle after battle, winning each one with ease, he was given a special position by the Captain-Commander for his efforts, making him the captain of a special force directly under his authority that is totally dedicated to wiping out the remaining rebels. <ref name="ep250"/>
+
Ginrei grew increasingly concerned about Kōga's overconfidence in his powers, and made a point to address how he needed to control himself. Kōga took this in stride, but could never understand why Ginrei never acknowledged any of his achievements. He would frequently speak to [[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)|Muramasa]] about this, but Muramasa's reassurance only increased his overconfidence. As he engaged in battle after battle, winning each one with ease, Kōga was given a special position by Yamamoto for his efforts, making him the captain of a special force directly under his authority that was completely dedicated to wiping out the remaining rebels.<ref name="e250"/>
   
 
[[Image:Koga and Muramasa surrounded by Onmitsukido.png|thumb|left|190px|Kōga and Muramasa are surrounded by the [[Onmitsukidō]].]]
 
[[Image:Koga and Muramasa surrounded by Onmitsukido.png|thumb|left|190px|Kōga and Muramasa are surrounded by the [[Onmitsukidō]].]]
When it became clear that he may very well be the key to winning the war, a rival faction, which included three elites, who wanted the glory for themselves, came up with a plan to frame him as a traitor. They achieved this by having their own men attack Kōga knowing he would easily dispatch them and then charging him with the murder and having him arrested. Ginrei arrived to see what happened, but upon one of the fallen soldiers admission that Kōga sacrificed them for his own battle lust, he had no choice, but allow Kōga's arrest until he could determine a way to clear him. <ref name="ep250"/>
+
When it became clear that Kōga might very well be the key to winning the war, a rival faction of three elites, who wanted the glory for themselves, came up with a plan to frame him as a traitor. They achieved this by having their own men attack Kōga, whom they knew would easily dispatch them, and then charging Kōga with murder and having him arrested. Ginrei arrived to see what happened, but upon a fallen soldier's claim that Kōga killed them to show off, Ginrei had no choice but to allow Kōga's arrest until he could determine a way to clear his name.<ref name="e250"/>
   
 
[[Image:Muramasa breaks Koga from prison.png|thumb|right|190px|Muramasa materializes, freeing Kōga from imprisonment.]]
 
[[Image:Muramasa breaks Koga from prison.png|thumb|right|190px|Muramasa materializes, freeing Kōga from imprisonment.]]
Ginrei visited him in jail and detailed that his punishment had been handed down. He was for the next few hundred years to be suspended from his seat in the 6th Division and it was determined that his Zanpakutō was a threat to the peace, therefore its powers would be nullified. Ginrei noted to him that he didn't believe any of it, but that the top brass had a problem with his Zanpakutō and its ability. He further explained that they weren't afraid of him, but Muramasa getting out of control. Ginrei then left Kōga there to learn patience as he went to rectify the situation. Kōga was later freed by Muramasa who inspired him to take control of his life again.<ref name="ep250"/>
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Ginrei visited Kōga in jail, and detailed that his punishment had been handed down: Kōga was to be suspended from his seat in the 6th Division, and '''Muramasa''' would be neutralized because its powers were too dangerous. Admitting he did not believe any of it, Ginrei revealed higher-ranking official had a problem with Kōga's Zanpakutō and its ability, and explained that they were not afraid of Kōga, but of Muramasa getting out of control. After Ginrei left him there to learn patience as he went to rectify the situation, Kōga was freed by Muramasa, who inspired him to take control of his life again.<ref name="e250"/>
   
[[Image:Koga ambushes the officials who framed him.png|thumb|left|190px|Kōga ambushes and kills the officials who framed him.]]
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[[Image:Koga ambushes the officials who framed him.png|thumb|left|190px|Kōga ambushes the officials who framed him.]]
That night Kōga killed the elites who framed him. Upon hearing of this Ginrei went in search of Kōga and found him in the outskirts of Soul Society. Ginrei confronted him about his actions, and Kōga explained that he killed the elites for their betrayal, hoping that deep down, they would regret their choice to frame him, but he had found them laughing. He noted that even after killing them he was still filled with anger for what they had done to him and the humiliation he had endured.<ref name="ep251">''Bleach'' anime; Episode 251</ref>
+
That night, Kōga killed the elites who framed him. Upon hearing of this, Ginrei went in search of Kōga, and found him in the outskirts of Soul Society. When Ginrei confronted him about his actions, Kōga explained how he had hoped that deep down, the officials would regret their choice to frame him, but he had killed them when he found them laughing. Kōga admitted that even after killing them, he was still filled with anger for what they had done to him and the humiliation he had endured.<ref name="e251"/>
   
 
[[Image:Koga's instability grows.png|thumb|right|190px|Kōga's instability grows, gradually making him believe that everyone opposed him.]]
 
[[Image:Koga's instability grows.png|thumb|right|190px|Kōga's instability grows, gradually making him believe that everyone opposed him.]]
Ginrei remarked that any chance at proving his innocence was gone and that his rash decisions now put him in a worse position and he will probably be executed. Kōga, upon hearing this, suffered a breakdown and accused Ginrei of being like all the others and being jealous of him. Kōga decided to stage a personal revolt against Soul Society and all his enemies; before departing, he cut off his ''kenseikan'' and rudely threw it back at Ginrei, severing his bond with the family. As he killed more people, his instability grew. When Muramasa noticed that Kōga's heart has become turbulent, he tried to tell Kōga to forget the past and focus on the future, but Kōga became too obsessed with the idea that everyone hated him and that he couldn't understand why.<ref name="ep251"/>
+
When Ginrei remarked that any chance at proving his innocence was gone and that his rash decisions now put him in line to be executed, Kōga suffered a breakdown and accused Ginrei of being like all the others and being jealous of him. Kōga decided to stage a personal revolt against Soul Society and all his enemies; before departing, he cut off his ''kenseikan'' and rudely threw it back at Ginrei, severing his bond with the family. As he killed more people, Kōga's instability grew. When Muramasa noticed that Kōga's heart has become turbulent, he tried to tell Kōga to forget the past and focus on the future, but Kōga became too obsessed with the idea that everyone hated him and that he could not understand why.<ref name="e251"/>
   
[[Image:Koga mocks Muramasa for believing that they are equals.png|thumb|left|190px|Kōga chokes Muramasa, ultimately creating a sense of disharmony between Shinigami and Zanpakutō.]]
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[[Image:Koga mocks Muramasa for believing that they are equals.png|thumb|left|190px|Kōga physically abuses Muramasa.]]
While fighting against a group a Shinigami, he attempted to release Muramasa and found there was no response. He tried again and Muramasa appeared. Eventually, Kōga escalated to killing innocent civilians in the [[Rukongai]]. While he sat alone in a cave Muramasa appeared and asked him why he would kill innocent bystanders, to which Kōga remarked that he was teaching Soul Society a lesson for exiling him from their world. Soon he was even abusing Muramasa when he was anything less than absolutely obedient. This disharmony between them gradually caused Kōga to lose his ability to communicate with Muramasa, or even access his power.<ref name="ep251"/>
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While fighting against a group a Shinigami, Kōga attempted to release '''Muramasa''' and found there was no response, though Muramasa appeared when he tried again. Eventually, Kōga escalated to killing innocent civilians in [[Rukongai]]. While Kōga sitting alone in a cave, Muramasa appeared and asked him why he would kill innocent bystanders, which prompted Kōga to claimhe was teaching Soul Society a lesson for exiling him from their world. Soon, Kōga was even abusing Muramasa when he was anything less than absolutely obedient. This disharmony between them gradually caused Kōga to lose his ability to communicate with Muramasa, or even access his power.<ref name="e251"/>
   
[[Image:Quad Burial Barrier.JPG|thumb|right|190px|Kōga sealed in the '''Shisō Kekkai''' spell cast by Yamamoto.]]
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[[Image:Ep251ShisōKekkai.png|thumb|right|190px|Kōga sealed in the '''Shisō Kekkai''' spell cast by Yamamoto.]]
Eventually, Yamamoto and Ginrei confronted Kōga, and after an exchange of words, they realized that they could not get through to him. They engaged in a minor battle and Kōga went to release Muramasa with no results. The two captains decided to take advantage of the situation and move to seal Kōga away when they realized he had lost total access to Muramasa's power.<ref name="ep251"/> Kōga's revolt was never recorded in [[Soul Society]]'s history.<ref name="ep248">''Bleach'' anime; Episode 248</ref>
+
Eventually, Yamamoto and Ginrei confronted Kōga, and after an exchange of words, they realized that they could not get through to him. They engaged in a minor battle, and Kōga tried to release Muramasa with no results. The two captains decided to take advantage of the situation, and [[Shisō Kekkai|sealed]] Kōga away when they realized he had lost total access to Muramasa's power.<ref name="e251"/> Kōga's revolt was never recorded in Soul Society's history.<ref name="e248">''Bleach'' anime; Episode 248</ref>
 
}}
 
}}
   
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{{Scroll-1|
 
[[Image:Koga Seal.png|thumb|190px|left|The seal that binds Kōga.]]
 
[[Image:Koga Seal.png|thumb|190px|left|The seal that binds Kōga.]]
Kōga was sealed away, but his Zanpakutō [[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)|Muramasa]] eventually resurfaces and begins to initiate a Zanpakutō Rebellion.<ref>''Bleach'' anime; Episode 230</ref> When [[Ichigo Kurosaki]] encounters Muramasa, he states that he already killed his master. However, after Muramasa gains control over [[Ryūjin Jakka (Zanpakutō spirit)|Ryūjin Jakka]], [[Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto]] reveals that Muramasa is planning to break Kōga's seal. He also states that Muramasa is heading to [[Karakura Town]], where Kōga was sealed.<ref name="ep248"/>
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Kōga was sealed away, but [[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)|Muramasa]] eventually resurfaces and initiates a [[Zanpakutō Rebellion]].<ref>''Bleach'' anime; Episode 230</ref> When [[Ichigo Kurosaki]] encounters Muramasa, he claims he already killed his master.<ref>''Bleach'' anime; Episode 234</ref> However, after Muramasa gains control over [[Ryūjin Jakka (Zanpakutō spirit)|Ryūjin Jakka]], [[Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto]] reveals Muramasa is planning to break Kōga's seal. He also states that Muramasa is heading to [[Karakura Town]], where Kōga was sealed.<ref name="e248"/>
   
  +
[[Image:Byakuya_blocks_Kōga's_attack..jpg|thumb|right|190px|Byakuya prevents Kōga from killing Muramasa.]]
Muramasa eventually arrives at the location where Kōga was sealed, but comes into conflict with [[Orihime Inoue]], [[Uryū Ishida]], [[Yasutora Sado]], and [[Rukia Kuchiki]]. He ultimately succeeds in breaking Kōga's seal.<ref>''Bleach'' anime; Episode 249</ref> As Ichigo arrives to stop him, Kōga begins to awaken. Though Muramasa is ecstatic that his master is finally free, Kōga immediately stabs him in anger, leaving a shocked Muramasa to ask him why.<ref name="ep250"/> Believing that Muramasa abandoned him before being sealed, Kōga decides to reinforce his status as master by making Muramasa pay with his life. However, Byakuya appears, stopping Kōga's strike and scolding him.<ref name="ep251"/>
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Muramasa eventually arrives at the location where Kōga was sealed, but comes into conflict with [[Orihime Inoue]], [[Uryū Ishida]], [[Yasutora Sado]], and [[Rukia Kuchiki]]. However, he ultimately succeeds in breaking Kōga's [[Shisō Kekkai|seal]].<ref>''Bleach'' anime; Episode 249</ref> As Ichigo arrives to stop him, Kōga begins to awaken. Though Muramasa is ecstatic that his master is finally free, Kōga immediately stabs him in anger, leaving a shocked Muramasa to ask him why.<ref name="e250"/> Believing that Muramasa abandoned him before being sealed, Kōga decides to reinforce his status as master by making Muramasa pay with his life. However, Byakuya appears, blocking Kōga's strike and berating him.<ref name="e251"/>
   
[[Image:Breaking Muramasa.png|thumb|right|190px|Kōga breaking Muramasa.]]
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[[Image:Breaking Muramasa.png|thumb|left|190px|Kōga snaps '''Muramasa''' in two.]]
Kōga notices that Byakuya is wearing the ''ginpaku kazahana no uzuginu'' scarf and the ''kenseikan'' and asks him if he is a member of the Kuchiki Clan to which Byakuya tells him his name and notes that he is the 28th Head of the Kuchiki Clan. Kōga then questions if Ginrei finally died, but Byakuya scolds him for even saying the name, as he had no right to speak it after he soiled the Kuchiki family's name. Byakuya reveals that he pretended to betray Soul Society so he could put the shame of Kōga to rest. After learning that Byakuya is the current head of the Kuchiki Clan, Kōga becomes determined to destroy his association with the Kuchiki Clan by killing its leader. Muramasa, despite being attacked by his master, insisted that Kōga use his power. Kōga arrogantly instead destroys the remainder of his sword, casting Muramasa away completely.<ref name="ep252">''Bleach'' anime; Episode 252</ref>
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Noticing Byakuya is wearing a windflower-silk scarf and a ''kenseikan'', Kōga asks him if he is a member of the [[Kuchiki Clan]], prompting Byakuya to reveal his name and position as the 28th Head of the Kuchiki Clan. When Kōga wonders if Ginrei has finally died, Byakuya reprimands him for even saying the name because he has no right to speak it after he soiled the Kuchiki Clan's name. Byakuya reveals he came here to he could put the shame of Kōga to rest by killing him. After learning that Byakuya is the current head of the Kuchiki Clan, Kōga becomes determined to destroy his association with the Kuchiki Clan by killing its leader. Though Muramasa insists that Kōga use his power, Kōga instead destroys the remainder of his sword, casting Muramasa away completely, and claims he does not need such a useless weapon.<ref name="e252"/>
   
[[Image:Koga Kuchiki Spirit Threads Immobilise Byakuya.png|thumb|left|190px|Kōga's Spiritual Threads capture Byakuya Kuchiki.]]
+
[[Image:Byakuya_&_Koga_Kuchiki_Battle.png|thumb|right|190px|Kōga clashes with Byakuya.]]
Kōga retrieves one of the blades that sealed him and engages Byakuya, fighting him on even grounds. They leave melee combat in order to face off against each other using [[Kidō]], to which Kōga uses the '''[[Kongōbaku]]''', '''[[Gaki Rekkō]]''' and '''[[Hyōga Seiran]]''' in successive order to which Byakuya counters with '''[[Sōkatsui]]''', '''[[Byakurai]]''', and '''[[Dankū]]''' respectively. After freezing the surrounding lake with the '''Hyōga Seiran''' spell, Kōga also succeeds in encasing Byakuya in ice as well. Byakuya breaks free using '''Senbonzakura''' and then Kōga attempts to attack, but Byakuya moves away allowing Kōga to use his spirit threads to hold Byakuya in place. Byakuya releases Senbonzakura and frees himself as well as attacking Kōga who tries to deflect Senbonzakura's blades, but only succeeds in breaking his own weapon.<ref name="ep252"/>
+
Grabbing one of the halberds that sealed him, Kōga engages Byakuya, fighting him on even grounds. After several skirmishes, they leave melee combat in order to face off against each other with [[Kidō]], with Kōga using '''[[Kongōbaku]]''', '''[[Gaki Rekkō]]''', and '''[[Hyōga Seiran]]''' in rapid succession. After freezing the surrounding lake with '''Hyōga Seiran''', Kōga succeeds in encasing Byakuya in ice. When Byakuya breaks free with '''[[Senbonzakura]]''', Kōga immobilizes him in midair with his '''[[Spiritual Threads]]'''. Releasing '''Senbonzakura''' once more, Byakuya frees himself and attacks Kōga, who shatters his halberd in the process of trying to deflect the blade petals.<ref name="e252"/>
   
  +
[[Image:252Byakuya_bifurcates.png|thumb|left|190px|Byakuya seemingly defeats Kōga.]]
Byakuya uses the opening to finish him off, but after cutting Kōga he realizes that it was just an illusion leaving him open to be attack. Kōga uses his illusions to show Byakuya he is no match for him and explains his ability and notes that had Byakuya closed off his "heart" like Ginrei and Yamamoto did when he was challenged by them he would have never been able to use his technique. He taunts Byakuya for letting down his guard because he discarded '''Muramasa'''. Byakuya tells him that he is wrong, that he didn't close off his "heart' because his intent was to kill him. Had he closed off his "heart" he could just seal him away again but not have killed him. Byakuya then attempts to release '''Senbonzakura''', but Kōga quickly counters and throws another blade weapon at him while using his illusion ability to confuse him. This allows the weapon to catch Byakuya's sword hand, knocking '''Senbonzakura''' out his hand and across the frozen lake. Another blade weapon is thrown, but Byakuya dodges. Kōga uses the '''Hyōga Seiran''' spell again to which Byakuya tries to block with '''Dankū'''. He realizes it was an illusion as he is hit from the side encasing him in ice and putting him at the mercy of Kōga. He gloats over how great his power is and attempts to finish off the incapacitated Byakuya only to have his weapon stopped by [[Senbonzakura (Zanpakutō spirit)|Senbonzakura]]. Kōga is surprised as he notices the Zanpakutō has released itself from some distance away to protect its master.<ref name="ep252"/>
 
  +
Byakuya uses the opening to finish him off, but after cutting Kōga, he realizes that it was just an illusion, leaving him open to attack. Using his illusions to show Byakuya he is no match for him, Kōga explains his ability and notes he would not have been able to use this technique if Byakuya closed his heart like Ginrei and Yamamoto did when he was challenged by them. When Kōga taunts him for letting down his guard down when Kōga discarded '''Muramasa''', Byakuya reveals he did not close his heart because his intent was to kill him, which he could not do if his heart was closed. When Byakuya attempts to release '''Senbonzakura''', Kōga throws another halberd at him while using his illusion ability to confuse Byakuya.<ref name="e252"/>
   
[[Image:Koga dies.jpg|thumb|right|190px|Kōga sinks into the lake and drowns.]]
+
[[Image:252Koga_stabs.png|thumb|right|190px|Kōga attacks an immobilized Byakuya.]]
  +
This allows the halberd to catch Byakuya's sword hand, knocking '''Senbonzakura''' out of his hand and across the frozen lake. When Byakuya dodges another halberd, Kōga uses '''Hyōga Seiran''' again, prompting Byakuya to try to block it with '''[[Bakudō]] #81. [[Dankū]]'''. However, Byakuya realizes it was an illusion as he is hit from the side, encasing him in ice and putting him at the mercy of Kōga. Gloating over how great his power is, Kōga attempts to finish off the incapacitated Byakuya, only to have his weapon stopped by [[Senbonzakura (Zanpakutō spirit)|Senbonzakura]], causing him to express disbelief at a Zanpakutō releasing itself.<ref name="e252"/>
Byakuya breaks free and readies himself against Kōga, who has determined to affect his Zanpakutō's perceptions as well. Before he can attempt it Byakuya releases his Bankai and uses his '''Senkei''' technique. He notes to Kōga that this is Senbonzakura's true form and that because it's all about offense, it doesn't matter if he can affect his perceptions as no matter where he is in there, his blades will always find him. The two face off against each other in stalemate until Kōga uses his spiritual threads to bind Byakuya, but many of Senbonzakura's blades rain down cutting the threads much to Kōga's surprise. Byakuya attacks him, but he moves out of the way and asks, how Byakuya can be so powerful. Byakuya plainly states because it is both him and Senbonzakura fighting him. He further explains that Shinigami and Zanpakutō are two in one and that they only reach their full potential when their two souls resonate with one another. Someone like Kōga who cast everything aside for his own vanity could never defeat them. Kōga refuses to listen and states that his greatness was never acknowledged. He says he was betrayed so he turned on them all and would create a world of his own choosing and be king. Byakuya calls him foolish as his real tragedy is that he failed to see where true power lies. He remarks to Kōga that the power he needed was to communicate with others as well as his Zanpakutō. Kōga refuses to believe that as he considers his powers unique and thus makes him superior. Byakuya then refuses to try to appeal to him any longer and curses him for his immaturity that prevents him from seeing his own overconfidence. He then activates his '''Shūkei: Hakuteiken''' technique to which Kōga states it impressive as there aren't many heads of the Kuchiki Clan that have been as powerful as him. Byakuya explains that he is using this technique on him as a final act of respect to him as a former member of the Kuchiki Clan.<ref name="ep252"/>
 
   
  +
[[Image:252Koga_glows.png|thumb|left|190px|Kōga prepares to resume his fight against Byakuya.]]
The two clash and in the aftermath, Kōga is defeated. Refusing to admit defeat, he calls for Muramasa to aid him. But like centuries ago, he is shocked to see that Muramasa does not respond, forgetting that he had already severed his bond with him. Failing to see the truth, Kōga falls into the depths of the lake and dies.<ref name="ep253">''Bleach'' anime; Episode 253</ref>
 
  +
Byakuya breaks free and readies himself against Kōga, who is determined to use his illusions on Senbonzakura as well. Before he can attempt to do so, Byakuya activates his [[Bankai]], '''[[Senbonzakura Kageyoshi]]''', and uses '''[[Senkei]]''', which Byakuya notes will allow him to overcome Kōga's illusions because his blades will always find Kōga. The two clash evenly several times until Kōga uses his '''Spiritual Threads''' to bind Byakuya once more. However, Senbonzakura has several '''Senkei''' blades rain down and cut the threads, to Kōga's surprise. Byakuya attacks him, but Kōga moves out of the way and wonders how Byakuya can be so powerful. Though Byakuya and Senbonzakura explain how their working in unison allows them to unleash their full power, Kōga refuses to listen and proclaims his greatness was never acknowledged.<ref name="e252"/>
  +
  +
[[Image:252Koga_says_order_is_created_by_power.png|thumb|right|190px|Kōga explains his intentions and views to Byakuya.]]
  +
Kōga expresses his desire to create a new world and become king of it, prompting Byakuya to call him foolish because his real tragedy is his failure to see where true power lies. When Byakuya states the power Kōga needed was to communicate with others as well as his Zanpakutō spirit, Kōga refuses to believe it, as he believes his unique powers make him superior to others. Deciding it is pointless to try to reason with Kōga, Byakuya activates '''[[Shūkei: Hakuteiken]]''', prompting Kōga to commend him for being so powerful. After Byakuya explains how he is using this technique on him as a final act of respect to him as a former member of the Kuchiki Clan, the two clash in a huge explosion of [[Reiatsu]].<ref name="e252"/>
  +
 
In the aftermath, Kōga is left heavily wounded. Refusing to admit defeat, he calls for Muramasa to aid him, and, having forgotten that he severed their bond, is shocked when Muramasa does not respond. Failing to see the truth, Kōga falls into the depths of the lake and dies.<ref>''Bleach'' anime; Episode 253</ref>
 
}}
 
}}
  +
==Equipment==
  +
[[Image:252Koga assumes.png|thumb|right|190px|Kōga wields one of the halberd.]]
  +
*'''[[Shisō Kekkai|Halberds]]''': After severing his bond with his Zanpakutō, Kōga uses the four halberds that were once used to stake him down for sealing him, claiming that his skills are not restricted to a single weapon. Kōga can use the hooked inside of the halberd's axe-blade joint to lock an opponent's sword and slash like a sword, while the opposite end has a sharp dagger-like point that he can use as well. Kōga can fire [[Kidō]] spells through the tip of his shaft. He picked up the first one to clash with Byakuya until it shattered against Senbonzakura, and used two more as throwing projectiles, imbued with his [[Reiatsu]], to immobilize Byakuya, while wielding the last one as a replacement for the first. The last one eventually shattered when it clashed with Byakuya's '''[[Shūkei: Hakuteiken]]'''.<ref name="e252"/>
  +
 
==Powers & Abilities==
 
==Powers & Abilities==
  +
'''[[Zanjutsu|Master Swordsman]]''': Kōga is incredibly proficient in swordsmanship. During his days as the 3rd Seat of the 6th Division, he effortlessly cut down three unseated Shinigami with a single attack, and easily defended himself when several unseated Shinigami all attacked him at once.<ref name="e250"/> Kōga easily cut down all Shinigami who were sent to kill him, and clashed evenly with Ginrei and Yamamoto, both captain-level combatants, during their short battle, proving his mastery even further.<ref name="e251"/>
[[Image:Byakuya & Koga Kuchiki Battle.png|thumb|right|190px|Kōga uses the blades he was sealed with to battle Byakuya.]]
 
'''[[Zanjutsu|Master Swordsman]]''': Kōga was an immensely powerful combatant, even with only his sealed Zanpakutō. Back when he was only a 3rd seat officer, he was able to easily fight at captain-level and take down a large group of enemies attacking him at once.<ref name="ep250"/> His skills are very versatile, able to use various bladed weapons with high proficiency. His skill allowed him quick and precise strikes that rivaled that of Byakuya Kuchiki.<ref name="ep252"/>
 
   
  +
'''Halberd Master''': After severing his bond with Muramasa by shattering the remnants of his sword, Kōga resorted to using the halberds used to keep him trapped in [[Shisō Kekkai|his seal]], and proved his prowess by fighting evenly against Byakuya, a [[Zanjutsu]] master. He can perform powerful two-handed strikes, easily block sword attacks, and use the shape of his halberd to his advantage while wielding them.<ref name="e250"/>
'''[[Hohō|Shunpo Master]]''': Kōga has demonstrated highly proficient skill in Flash Step, able to keep on equal footing with Byakuya Kuchiki, one of the most skilled masters. In battle, Kōga has shown great enough reflexes to dodge point-blank sword attacks unscathed.<ref name="ep252"/>
 
   
  +
'''[[Hohō|Shunpo Master]]''': Kōga is an extremely fast combatant. During his days as the 3rd Seat of the 6th Division, he cut down three unseated Shinigami with a single attack before any of them even noticed.<ref name="e250"/> He effortlessly kept up with Byakuya, a [[Shunpo]] master, during their battle, and even managed to dodge a point-blank attack from Byakuya at the last possible second on several occasions.<ref name="e252"/>
'''[[Kidō|Kidō Expert]]''': Kōga's skill in Kidō is immense, able to use various forms of spells with great power and skill successively, fighting on equal footing against Byakuya Kuchiki; all at the same time without incantation.<ref name="ep252"/>
 
   
  +
'''[[Kidō|Kidō Expert]]''': Kōga possesses great skill in using Kidō in battle. During his battle against Byakuya, he used three powerful, unique Kidō spells in rapid succession without incantation and to great effect.<ref name="e252"/>
'''Enhanced Strength''': Even in his physically withered state, Kōga is deceptively strong. With a single downward chop, he was able to snap his sword's blade in two.<ref name="ep252"/>
 
   
  +
[[Image:252Reiatsu_radiates.png|thumb|right|190px|Kōga's Reiatsu.]]
'''[[Reiryoku#Spiritual Power Levels|Immense Spiritual Power]]''': While not a noble by blood nor of considerable age, Kōga possessed great spiritual power even when only a 3rd seat officer. Ginrei, the 6th Division captain at the time, states Kōga's power vastly surpasses his own.<ref name="ep250"/> He displays a massive Reiatsu, even after being sealed away for several centuries.<ref name="ep251"/> His Reiatsu is blue in color.<ref>''Bleach'' anime; Episode 250</ref> His skill and control at using his spiritual energy allows him to perform a variety of abilities.
 
  +
'''[[Reiryoku#Spiritual Power Levels|Immense Spiritual Power]]''': Despite having been only the 3rd Seat of the [[6th Division]], Kōga possesses an enormous amount of Reiryoku. [[Ginrei Kuchiki]], the 6th Division captain at the time, admitted that Kōga's sheer power far surpassed his own, and [[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)|Muramasa]] himself admitted that Kōga's power had not even reached its full potential yet. His [[Reiatsu]] is powerful enough to intimidate dozens of unseated [[Shinigami]] simply by being exerted, and Kōga can effortlessly kill unseated Shinigami without even releasing his [[Shikai]].<ref name="e250"/> Occasionally, Kōga's Reiatsu will flow along the blade of his [[Zanpakutō]] when he fights. He is powerful enough to clash evenly with both Ginrei and [[Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto]], who were the only ones with enough power to confront him at the time.<ref name="e251"/> Several centuries after being sealed away, Kōga still possesses a huge amount of Reiryoku, and managed to blow [[Ichigo Kurosaki]] and [[Rukia Kuchiki]] away simply by exerting his Reiatsu.<ref name="e250"/> Kōga is powerful enough to fight evenly against and wound [[Byakuya Kuchiki]], one of the most powerful captains of the [[Gotei 13]] and the strongest Head of the [[Kuchiki Clan]] to ever live, and nearly killed him at one point. Uniquely, because of his power, Kōga cannot be killed unless his attacker opens their heart to him; otherwise, he can only be sealed away.<ref name="e252"/> His Reiatsu is blue.<ref name="e250"/> Like Muramasa, Kōga can use his Reiryoku for two unique abilities, which he claims he gave to Muramasa:
   
[[Image:KōgaIllusions.gif|thumb|right|190px|Kōga using his Illusions.]]
+
[[Image:252Spiritual Threads.gif|thumb|right|190px|Kōga uses his '''Spiritual Threads'''.]]
  +
*'''[[Spiritual Threads]]''': By pointing one of his halberds at his opponent, Kōga can create spiritual threads and manipulate them to immobilize his opponent. Though these spiritual threads are invisible to the naked eye, they can be seen in the shadows cast on nearby surfaces, and Kōga states they work by capturing his opponent's shadow instead of simply their reflection, preventing them from being easily destroyed by a reflection being distorted. However, their hold on an opponent can be nullified if they are cut apart with sufficient force.<ref name="e252"/>
*'''Illusions''': Muramasa can control other Zanpakutō, but its ability is just apart of Kōga's own special ability. He can send his Reiatsu into his enemies and throw off all of their senses. He then has complete control over what they perceive, thus making it so his opponent cannot even see him clearly though he is right in front of him. Kōga states it is so much more than simple illusions. This power can be negated by one closing their "hearts" off before challenging him.<ref name="ep252"/>
 
   
  +
[[Image:KōgaIllusions.gif|thumb|right|190px|Kōga uses his '''Illusions''' against Byakuya.]]
*'''Spiritual Threads''': Kōga is able to form invisible spiritual threads to bind his opponent in place. While powerful, these threads can only be manifested through reflective surfaces such as a building's windows or clear water, where they can be seen. In turn sufficient cutting can easily break the threads.<ref>''Bleach'' anime; Episode 255</ref>
 
  +
*'''[[Illusions (Zanpakutō Technique)|Illusions]]''': By sending his Reiryoku into his opponent, Kōga can confuse all five of their senses. This allows him to fake oncoming attacks, create clones of himself to avoid attacks, and make himself appear to be further away than he actually is in order to perform surprise attacks at close range. Kōga claims these are far more than illusions, which he considers "''simplistic''", and can infuse weapons with his Reiatsu in order to create illusory clones of them when attacking. However, the effects of this ability on an opponent can be nullified if another being acts as a victim's eyes and limbs, such as a Shinigami's [[Zanpakutō]] spirit. Additionally, Kōga can only use this ability if his opponent opens their mind to him or lets their guard down.<ref name="e252"/>
  +
  +
'''Enhanced Strength''': Kōga possesses a considerable amount of physical strength. He sent four Shinigami flying back with a single slash of his sword,<ref name="e252"/> and sent Ginrei flying away with a single kick.<ref name="e251"/> Even in his physically withered state, Kōga is strong enough to shatter the remainder of his Zanpakutō with a single downward chop.<ref name="e252"/>
   
 
===Zanpakutō===
 
===Zanpakutō===
 
<small>For the manifested spirit that appears in the ''[[Zanpakutō Unknown Tales arc]]'', see [[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)]].</small>
 
<small>For the manifested spirit that appears in the ''[[Zanpakutō Unknown Tales arc]]'', see [[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)]].</small>
   
[[Image:Muramasa Blade Ep247.png|thumb|right|190px|Kōga's Zanpakutō, Muramasa.]]
+
[[Image:Muramasa Blade Ep247.png|thumb|right|190px|'''Muramasa''' and its sheath.]]
{{translation|'''[[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)|Muramasa]]'''|村正|Village-Just}}: Kōga's Zanpakutō takes the form of a normal katana with a dull red sheath, purple hilt-wrapping and a guard in a shape similar to the [[Kidō Corps]]' emblem, consisting of a circle with a pentagon-like shape in the center and three points protruding from the edges evenly spaced apart. Muramasa is an illusion-type Zanpakutō.<ref name="ep251"/>
+
{{translation|'''[[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)|Muramasa]]'''|村正|Village-Just}}: Kōga's Zanpakutō takes the form of a normal katana with a dull red sheath, a purple hilt, and a guard consisting of a circle with a pentagon-like shape in the center and three evenly-spaced points protruding from the edges. Muramasa is an illusion-type Zanpakutō.<ref name="e250"/> As Kōga descended into insanity, his harmony with Muramasa deteriorated more and more, leading to him losing access to Muramasa's powers.<ref name="e251"/> Eventually, Kōga shattered the blade with his bare hand, permanently severing his bond with his Zanpakutō.<ref name="e252"/>
   
*'''[[Shikai]]:''' The release command is "'''Whisper'''" (囁け, ''sasayake''). Muramasa shines with bright purple light to engulf a considerable radius, affecting any and all targets within it.<ref name="ep250"/>
+
*'''[[Shikai]]''': Its release command is {{translation|"'''Whisper'''"|囁け|sasayake}}.<ref name="e250"/>
   
  +
[[Image:250Muramasa's release.gif|thumb|right|190px|Kōga releases '''Muramasa'''.]]
:'''''Shikai Special Ability''''': Upon release Muramasa glows purple and releases a 360 degree wave of purple energy into the surrounding area causing all Zanpakutō in that area to turn on their wielder. The Zanpakutō will move on their own against their wielder's will and attack their allies or even turn against their own wielder. This power is shown to affect around 10 individuals at once.<ref name="ep250"/> It can cause a Zanpakutō's spirit to abandon its master and attack them.<ref name="ep248"/> The only way to combat against Muramasa's power is by understanding how the Zanpakutō works and sealing one's "heart" against it. Though in order to block the attack in that state one must have incredible Reiatsu and concentration. In addition, one must be able to still fight in that state.<ref name="ep251"/>
+
:'''''Shikai Special Ability''''': Upon release, '''Muramasa''' glows purple and releases a 360-degree wave of purple energy into the surrounding area, causing all Zanpakutō in the area to turn on their wielder. The Zanpakutō will move on their own against their wielder's will, attack their allies, or even turn against their own wielder.<ref name="e250"/> Additionally, Kōga can temporarily summon Muramasa to attack his foes by releasing his Zanpakutō. The only way to combat its power is by understanding how the Zanpakutō works and sealing one's heart against it. However, in addition to remaining able to fight in this state, one must have incredible Reiryoku and mental fortitude in order to block the attack itself.<ref name="e251"/>
   
:*{{translation|'''Yūkōjōchū Muramasa'''|有鉤条虫村正|Hooked Tapeworm Village-Just}}: upon a large explosion of spiritual energy, Muramasa manifests its true form into the real world. Muramasa himself has the ability to manifest in his true form and can even manifest himself at a distance from his master, able to hear his call from wherever he is. Muramasa can also manifest his sealed sword form and engage his powers independently of Kōga's command.<ref name="ep250"/>
+
:*{{translation|'''[[Yūkōjōchū Muramasa]]'''|有鉤条虫村正|Hooked Tapeworm Village-Just}}: Upon a large explosion of spiritual energy, Muramasa manifests himself into the real world. Muramasa has the ability to manifest in his true form, and can even manifest himself at a distance from his master because he can hear Kōga's call from wherever he is. Muramasa can also manifest his sealed sword form and engage his powers independently of Kōga's command.<ref name="e250"/>
   
  +
[[Image:250Zanpakuto Spirit Manifestation.gif|thumb|right|190px|Muramasa manifests several Zanpakutō spirits.]]
::*'''Zanpakutō Manifestation''': Muramasa generates a burst of energy that affects the Zanpakutō of all in the vicinity. When this takes place, the Zanpakutō of other wielders glow with a purple light. Their Zanpakutō spirits then manifest, typically as tangible shadowy figures from weaker Shinigami and with greater individuality and power from stronger Shinigami.<ref name="ep250"/> Muramasa can break into the inner world of targets, similar to how a tape-worm leeches off its target, and forces them to bend to the user's will. This is done by removing the energy stability between Shinigami and Zanpakutō, leaving the spirit confused and allowing Muramasa to forcibly release the Zanpakutō spirit's negative emotions.<ref>''Bleach'' anime; Episode 257</ref>
+
::*'''[[Zanpakutō Spirit Manifestation]]''': Muramasa generates a burst of energy that affects the Zanpakutō of all in the vicinity. When this takes place, the Zanpakutō of other wielders glow with a blue light as their Zanpakutō spirits manifest, typically as tangible shadowy figures from weaker Shinigami and with greater individuality and power from stronger Shinigami.<ref name="e250"/> Muramasa can break into the inner world of his targets and force their Zanpakutō spirits to bend to his will. This is done by removing the energy stability between Shinigami and Zanpakutō spirit, leaving the spirit confused and allowing Muramasa to forcibly release their negative emotions.<ref>''Bleach'' anime; Episode 257</ref>
   
 
*'''Bankai''': Not Achieved.
 
*'''Bankai:''' Not Achieved.
 
   
 
==Quotes==
 
==Quotes==
  +
*(To [[Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto]]) ''"I pledge my life in an effort to bring peace to this world."''<ref name="e250"/>
* (To [[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)|Muramasa]]) "''I only have enemies. Everybody hates me. I kill before being killed. To survive, of course I would. Why am I hated? Why do I have power? This power brings disaster? Or not?''"<ref name="ep251"/>
 
  +
* (To [[Ginrei Kuchiki]] and [[Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto]]) "''Ideals of perfection doesn't exist. What exists of the following ideas is the discovery that these things are impossible to realize, the loss of hope. But it is with despair that can reach your greatest hidden power. It is the despair that breaks its limits. Frees his heart to act as you wish. Who has the power is going to dictate the rules! Even if that power is black and ugly. By winning, this blackness becomes the color of real justice!''"<ref name="ep251"/>
 
* (To Muramasa) "''You're nothing, but a nuisance. Instead of using an unstable power like your, my own power is enough. A Zanpakutō is just an object. There will always be one for replacement.''"<ref name="ep252"/>
+
*(To [[Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit)|Muramasa]]) ''"You're right. Trusting in myself is the answer, and that in turn will lead to peace."''<ref name="e250"/>
  +
*(To [[Byakuya Kuchiki]]) "''No matter the results that I could get, no one accepted me! I was condemned as a traitor and imprisoned me! So I'll create my own place! The rule is to have power! I'll be the new emperor of the world!''"<ref name="ep252"/>
 
*(To Byakuya Kuchiki) "''Relationship with other people? I don't need that "power"! My power is simply an extreme power where no one is accepted!''"<ref name="ep252"/>
+
*(To Muramasa) ''"Let me make one thing clear, Muramasa. I am the master here, and as such I am in charge. I will not be ordered around by a Zanpakutō spirit!"''<ref name="e250"/>
  +
  +
*(To [[Ginrei Kuchiki]]) ''"I thought they were misguided. I assumed they had made a mistake about my intentions and were feeling guilty about their behavior. I was wrong! They knew what they had done, and were laughing about it! Killing them was the only option, but it didn't help! Even though it was just, it didn't make the empty feeling go away! I still feel like an outcast!"''<ref name="e251"/>
  +
  +
*(To Ginrei Kuchiki) ''"I get it now. You have the same attitude. You're just like those other men! You pretend you're on my side, you befriend me, put me off-guard! However, that's not how you really feel! The truth is, you hate me! You and the others are jealous of my power!"''<ref name="e251"/>
  +
  +
*''"I'm surrounded by enemies. It's obvious everyone hates me. I'll have to kill them, all of them. I have to do whatever is necessary to survive. Why does everyone around here hate me so much? Is it because they're all jealous of my power? That has to be the reason. They want to bring me down. I'll just have to strike back at them first. There is only one way to deal with these people..."''<ref name="e251"/>
  +
  +
*(To Muramasa) ''"Our vision? What do you mean by the word 'our'? You've got a lot of nerve! Tell me something: do you actually consider yourself my equal? Let me remind you: you're my sword, so don't get too cocky! Just do as you're told and keep your mouth shut!"''<ref name="e251"/>
  +
  +
*(To Ginrei Kuchiki) ''"Ideals? Don't make me laugh. There are no ideals in this world. We're all left with only one thing: the despair of not being able to make those ideals come true. But I've now discovered that despair releases my true power. Despair is the force that breaks my shackles and frees my heart to do as it truly wishes!"''<ref name="e251"/>
  +
  +
*(To Ginrei Kuchiki) ''"Those with power are the ones who get to impose order on this world, and in the midst of chaos, that order prevails right or wrong! If that power is victorious, even if it's dark, black will become the color of what's right!"''<ref name="e251"/>
  +
  +
*(To Muramasa) ''"As a Shinigami and your master, I was the one who gave birth to your power! All you ever needed to do in your life after that was simply obey me! To me, you've always been nothing more than a sword, simply a mere tool of mine...and a mere tool shouldn't be so conceited!"''<ref name="e251"/>
  +
  +
*(To Muramasa) ''"You've become nothing more than a hindrance to me. I don't need to use a pathetic, unstable sword like you. My power alone is enough."''<ref name="e252"/>
  +
  +
*(To [[Ichigo Kurosaki]]) ''"A Zanpakutō is merely a tool. There are countless replacements."''<ref name="e252"/>
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*(To [[Byakuya Kuchiki]]) ''"My enemies' skills are so irrelevant! Everyone falls to their knees before me, and it's all because of my own power! I don't need anything from a Zanpakutō! I'm the most powerful Shinigami to ever live!"''<ref name="e252"/>
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*(To [[Senbonzakura (Zanpakutō spirit)|Senbonzakura]]) ''"No one acknowledged what I did despite all my successes. Instead, they branded me a traitor and tried to seal me away! If that was going to be the case, I had to create a place for myself somewhere! Order is created by power! With my power, I'm going to become king of the new world!"''<ref name="e252"/>
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*(To Byakuya Kuchiki) ''"My power is like no other! It is an absolute power that has no equal, not here or anywhere else in the universe!"''<ref name="e252"/>
   
 
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Revision as of 03:07, 1 August 2015

Overview

Kōga Kuchiki (朽木 響河, Kuchiki Kōga) is a former 3rd Seat of the 6th Division who later revolted against the Seireitei. He was also a member of the Kuchiki Clan, having married into it.

Appearance

KogaEp250

Kōga before he was sealed.

Kōga is a well-toned man with piercing green eyes, shoulder-length black hair, and a long ponytail of red hair, with bangs hanging on the right side of his face to frame it. When he was a member of the Gotei 13, he wore a standard Shinigami shihakushō with the addition of a long red scarf, a light lavender obi sash, and a beaded necklace with a pendant. He also wore an intricate white headpiece called kenseikan, which symbolized his nobility, on the left side of his head to hold his ponytail in place with red tufts of hair sticking out, though he later cut it off to relinquish his status as a Kuchiki.[1]

While originally his appearance was youthful and fit, after several hundred years sealed away, Kōga's physical form has been reduced to a withered and malnourished version of his former self. While he was imprisoned, he was adorned with a mouth mask and gauntlets around his wrists. These remained on him after his jailbreak, but the mask was cut, with only the part on the bridge of his nose remained. While his scarf and necklace remain, his shihakushō is torn, leaving him bare-chested.[2]

Personality

Originally, Kōga is a very headstrong man, willing to rush headlong into battle at any moment in order to turn the tide. He has a habit of referring to his father-in-law, Ginrei Kuchiki, informally during battle, but is apologetic about it when Ginrei points it out. He is confident in his own power, and is confused by Ginrei reprimanding him for this, but is usually humble about his actions. Kōga believes strongly in his mission of achieving peace, and is willing to lay down his life in order to see his goal realized. He frequently goes to Muramasa for counsel on his affairs. Deep down, Kōga wishes for Ginrei to openly acknowledge his achievements, and is saddened and angered when he does not. Despite his pride, Kōga possesses enough self-control to listen to reason, surrendering to the Onmitsukidō instead of fighting back when he is framed for murder. However, his overconfidence eventually leads to Kōga being betrayed by allied officers, and his resulting imprisonment and announced punishment lead Kōga to believe Ginrei does not have faith in him. Kōga is convinced by Muramasa that he should use his power to change the world, but asserts that he is the master and will not be controlled by his Zanpakutō spirit, marking the start of his downward spiral into madness.[1]

After being freed from prison, Kōga is much more ruthless, mercilessly attacking and killing the conspirators who put him in jail. However, he still retained enough morality to give them the benefit of the doubt and believe they may have been misguided, though he was proven wrong upon finding them laughing at his imprisonment. Additionally, Kōga initially regrets his violent actions because he realizes it did not change anything, and is horrified to learn he can no longer prove his innocence before a tribunal. However, Kōga's conversation with Ginrei proves to be the tipping point for his sanity, and he begins to believe everyone hates him and is jealous of his power, leading to him renouncing his ties to the Kuchiki Clan by cutting off his kenseikan. Initially, Kōga only kills those who attack him on a principle of kill or be killed, but eventually begins slaughtering helpless Rukongai denizens, which he justifies by claiming he is sending a message of hopelessness to Soul Society. Additionally, Kōga's paranoia and hatred lead to his bond with Muramasa slowly degrading over time, which is further worsened when Kōga physically abuses him over a perceived insult, leading to Kōga being unable to release his Zanpakutō at all. Kōga comes to enjoy despair, and claims it unleashes his true power by making him realize there are no ideals in the world. He believes power maintains all order in the world, and asserts that his evil will become good if he is the most powerful. Kōga firmly believes a Zanpakutō is simply a tool for killing, and should not be treated on an equal level to its master, a belief which he follows when he attempts to kill Muramasa.[2]

Even after Muramasa frees him from his seal several hundred years later, Kōga is very disrespectful, making light of the event of Ginrei's alleged death to his grandson, Byakuya Kuchiki, and frequently referring to Byakuya as "youngster". He holds a particular grudge against the Kuchiki Clan, agreeing to fight Byakuya solely because he is the current Head of the Kuchiki Clan and claiming the clan is full of arrogance. Additionally, Kōga's own confidence grows to the point where he intentionally severs his bond with Muramasa because he believes his own power is enough to handle Byakuya. He believes Zanpakutō are simply tools for which there are countless replacements. Kōga is incredibly proud of his own power; he claims his illusions are more than simple illusions, and believes that he is the most powerful Shinigami to ever live, which is why he does not need a Zanpakutō.[3]

History

Koga releases his Zanpakuto against the rebels

Kōga releases his Zanpakutō against the rebels.

Several hundred years ago, Kōga was welcomed into the Kuchiki Clan as the son-in-law of Ginrei Kuchiki, and soon gained much respect throughout Soul Society. He, in his capacity as the 3rd Seat of the 6th Division, participated in a battle between the loyalist and rebel factions of Soul Society, winning a decisive victory for the loyalist side by himself. For his performance, Kōga was given much praise and many accolades from Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto himself.[1]

Koga's skills in battle are praised by Yamamoto

Kōga is put in charge of a special contingency force.

Ginrei grew increasingly concerned about Kōga's overconfidence in his powers, and made a point to address how he needed to control himself. Kōga took this in stride, but could never understand why Ginrei never acknowledged any of his achievements. He would frequently speak to Muramasa about this, but Muramasa's reassurance only increased his overconfidence. As he engaged in battle after battle, winning each one with ease, Kōga was given a special position by Yamamoto for his efforts, making him the captain of a special force directly under his authority that was completely dedicated to wiping out the remaining rebels.[1]

Koga and Muramasa surrounded by Onmitsukido

Kōga and Muramasa are surrounded by the Onmitsukidō.

When it became clear that Kōga might very well be the key to winning the war, a rival faction of three elites, who wanted the glory for themselves, came up with a plan to frame him as a traitor. They achieved this by having their own men attack Kōga, whom they knew would easily dispatch them, and then charging Kōga with murder and having him arrested. Ginrei arrived to see what happened, but upon a fallen soldier's claim that Kōga killed them to show off, Ginrei had no choice but to allow Kōga's arrest until he could determine a way to clear his name.[1]

Muramasa breaks Koga from prison

Muramasa materializes, freeing Kōga from imprisonment.

Ginrei visited Kōga in jail, and detailed that his punishment had been handed down: Kōga was to be suspended from his seat in the 6th Division, and Muramasa would be neutralized because its powers were too dangerous. Admitting he did not believe any of it, Ginrei revealed higher-ranking official had a problem with Kōga's Zanpakutō and its ability, and explained that they were not afraid of Kōga, but of Muramasa getting out of control. After Ginrei left him there to learn patience as he went to rectify the situation, Kōga was freed by Muramasa, who inspired him to take control of his life again.[1]

File:Koga ambushes the officials who framed him.png

Kōga ambushes the officials who framed him.

That night, Kōga killed the elites who framed him. Upon hearing of this, Ginrei went in search of Kōga, and found him in the outskirts of Soul Society. When Ginrei confronted him about his actions, Kōga explained how he had hoped that deep down, the officials would regret their choice to frame him, but he had killed them when he found them laughing. Kōga admitted that even after killing them, he was still filled with anger for what they had done to him and the humiliation he had endured.[2]

File:Koga's instability grows.png

Kōga's instability grows, gradually making him believe that everyone opposed him.

When Ginrei remarked that any chance at proving his innocence was gone and that his rash decisions now put him in line to be executed, Kōga suffered a breakdown and accused Ginrei of being like all the others and being jealous of him. Kōga decided to stage a personal revolt against Soul Society and all his enemies; before departing, he cut off his kenseikan and rudely threw it back at Ginrei, severing his bond with the family. As he killed more people, Kōga's instability grew. When Muramasa noticed that Kōga's heart has become turbulent, he tried to tell Kōga to forget the past and focus on the future, but Kōga became too obsessed with the idea that everyone hated him and that he could not understand why.[2]

File:Koga mocks Muramasa for believing that they are equals.png

Kōga physically abuses Muramasa.

While fighting against a group a Shinigami, Kōga attempted to release Muramasa and found there was no response, though Muramasa appeared when he tried again. Eventually, Kōga escalated to killing innocent civilians in Rukongai. While Kōga sitting alone in a cave, Muramasa appeared and asked him why he would kill innocent bystanders, which prompted Kōga to claimhe was teaching Soul Society a lesson for exiling him from their world. Soon, Kōga was even abusing Muramasa when he was anything less than absolutely obedient. This disharmony between them gradually caused Kōga to lose his ability to communicate with Muramasa, or even access his power.[2]

Ep251ShisōKekkai

Kōga sealed in the Shisō Kekkai spell cast by Yamamoto.

Eventually, Yamamoto and Ginrei confronted Kōga, and after an exchange of words, they realized that they could not get through to him. They engaged in a minor battle, and Kōga tried to release Muramasa with no results. The two captains decided to take advantage of the situation, and sealed Kōga away when they realized he had lost total access to Muramasa's power.[2] Kōga's revolt was never recorded in Soul Society's history.[4]


Plot

Zanpakutō Unknown Tales arc (anime only)

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

Koga Seal

The seal that binds Kōga.

Kōga was sealed away, but Muramasa eventually resurfaces and initiates a Zanpakutō Rebellion.[5] When Ichigo Kurosaki encounters Muramasa, he claims he already killed his master.[6] However, after Muramasa gains control over Ryūjin Jakka, Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto reveals Muramasa is planning to break Kōga's seal. He also states that Muramasa is heading to Karakura Town, where Kōga was sealed.[4]

File:Byakuya blocks Kōga's attack..jpg

Byakuya prevents Kōga from killing Muramasa.

Muramasa eventually arrives at the location where Kōga was sealed, but comes into conflict with Orihime Inoue, Uryū Ishida, Yasutora Sado, and Rukia Kuchiki. However, he ultimately succeeds in breaking Kōga's seal.[7] As Ichigo arrives to stop him, Kōga begins to awaken. Though Muramasa is ecstatic that his master is finally free, Kōga immediately stabs him in anger, leaving a shocked Muramasa to ask him why.[1] Believing that Muramasa abandoned him before being sealed, Kōga decides to reinforce his status as master by making Muramasa pay with his life. However, Byakuya appears, blocking Kōga's strike and berating him.[2]

Breaking Muramasa

Kōga snaps Muramasa in two.

Noticing Byakuya is wearing a windflower-silk scarf and a kenseikan, Kōga asks him if he is a member of the Kuchiki Clan, prompting Byakuya to reveal his name and position as the 28th Head of the Kuchiki Clan. When Kōga wonders if Ginrei has finally died, Byakuya reprimands him for even saying the name because he has no right to speak it after he soiled the Kuchiki Clan's name. Byakuya reveals he came here to he could put the shame of Kōga to rest by killing him. After learning that Byakuya is the current head of the Kuchiki Clan, Kōga becomes determined to destroy his association with the Kuchiki Clan by killing its leader. Though Muramasa insists that Kōga use his power, Kōga instead destroys the remainder of his sword, casting Muramasa away completely, and claims he does not need such a useless weapon.[3]

Byakuya & Koga Kuchiki Battle

Kōga clashes with Byakuya.

Grabbing one of the halberds that sealed him, Kōga engages Byakuya, fighting him on even grounds. After several skirmishes, they leave melee combat in order to face off against each other with Kidō, with Kōga using Kongōbaku, Gaki Rekkō, and Hyōga Seiran in rapid succession. After freezing the surrounding lake with Hyōga Seiran, Kōga succeeds in encasing Byakuya in ice. When Byakuya breaks free with Senbonzakura, Kōga immobilizes him in midair with his Spiritual Threads. Releasing Senbonzakura once more, Byakuya frees himself and attacks Kōga, who shatters his halberd in the process of trying to deflect the blade petals.[3]

File:252Byakuya bifurcates.png

Byakuya seemingly defeats Kōga.

Byakuya uses the opening to finish him off, but after cutting Kōga, he realizes that it was just an illusion, leaving him open to attack. Using his illusions to show Byakuya he is no match for him, Kōga explains his ability and notes he would not have been able to use this technique if Byakuya closed his heart like Ginrei and Yamamoto did when he was challenged by them. When Kōga taunts him for letting down his guard down when Kōga discarded Muramasa, Byakuya reveals he did not close his heart because his intent was to kill him, which he could not do if his heart was closed. When Byakuya attempts to release Senbonzakura, Kōga throws another halberd at him while using his illusion ability to confuse Byakuya.[3]

252Koga stabs

Kōga attacks an immobilized Byakuya.

This allows the halberd to catch Byakuya's sword hand, knocking Senbonzakura out of his hand and across the frozen lake. When Byakuya dodges another halberd, Kōga uses Hyōga Seiran again, prompting Byakuya to try to block it with Bakudō #81. Dankū. However, Byakuya realizes it was an illusion as he is hit from the side, encasing him in ice and putting him at the mercy of Kōga. Gloating over how great his power is, Kōga attempts to finish off the incapacitated Byakuya, only to have his weapon stopped by Senbonzakura, causing him to express disbelief at a Zanpakutō releasing itself.[3]

252Koga glows

Kōga prepares to resume his fight against Byakuya.

Byakuya breaks free and readies himself against Kōga, who is determined to use his illusions on Senbonzakura as well. Before he can attempt to do so, Byakuya activates his Bankai, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, and uses Senkei, which Byakuya notes will allow him to overcome Kōga's illusions because his blades will always find Kōga. The two clash evenly several times until Kōga uses his Spiritual Threads to bind Byakuya once more. However, Senbonzakura has several Senkei blades rain down and cut the threads, to Kōga's surprise. Byakuya attacks him, but Kōga moves out of the way and wonders how Byakuya can be so powerful. Though Byakuya and Senbonzakura explain how their working in unison allows them to unleash their full power, Kōga refuses to listen and proclaims his greatness was never acknowledged.[3]

252Koga says order is created by power

Kōga explains his intentions and views to Byakuya.

Kōga expresses his desire to create a new world and become king of it, prompting Byakuya to call him foolish because his real tragedy is his failure to see where true power lies. When Byakuya states the power Kōga needed was to communicate with others as well as his Zanpakutō spirit, Kōga refuses to believe it, as he believes his unique powers make him superior to others. Deciding it is pointless to try to reason with Kōga, Byakuya activates Shūkei: Hakuteiken, prompting Kōga to commend him for being so powerful. After Byakuya explains how he is using this technique on him as a final act of respect to him as a former member of the Kuchiki Clan, the two clash in a huge explosion of Reiatsu.[3]

In the aftermath, Kōga is left heavily wounded. Refusing to admit defeat, he calls for Muramasa to aid him, and, having forgotten that he severed their bond, is shocked when Muramasa does not respond. Failing to see the truth, Kōga falls into the depths of the lake and dies.[8]

Equipment

252Koga assumes

Kōga wields one of the halberd.

  • Halberds: After severing his bond with his Zanpakutō, Kōga uses the four halberds that were once used to stake him down for sealing him, claiming that his skills are not restricted to a single weapon. Kōga can use the hooked inside of the halberd's axe-blade joint to lock an opponent's sword and slash like a sword, while the opposite end has a sharp dagger-like point that he can use as well. Kōga can fire Kidō spells through the tip of his shaft. He picked up the first one to clash with Byakuya until it shattered against Senbonzakura, and used two more as throwing projectiles, imbued with his Reiatsu, to immobilize Byakuya, while wielding the last one as a replacement for the first. The last one eventually shattered when it clashed with Byakuya's Shūkei: Hakuteiken.[3]

Powers & Abilities

Master Swordsman: Kōga is incredibly proficient in swordsmanship. During his days as the 3rd Seat of the 6th Division, he effortlessly cut down three unseated Shinigami with a single attack, and easily defended himself when several unseated Shinigami all attacked him at once.[1] Kōga easily cut down all Shinigami who were sent to kill him, and clashed evenly with Ginrei and Yamamoto, both captain-level combatants, during their short battle, proving his mastery even further.[2]

Halberd Master: After severing his bond with Muramasa by shattering the remnants of his sword, Kōga resorted to using the halberds used to keep him trapped in his seal, and proved his prowess by fighting evenly against Byakuya, a Zanjutsu master. He can perform powerful two-handed strikes, easily block sword attacks, and use the shape of his halberd to his advantage while wielding them.[1]

Shunpo Master: Kōga is an extremely fast combatant. During his days as the 3rd Seat of the 6th Division, he cut down three unseated Shinigami with a single attack before any of them even noticed.[1] He effortlessly kept up with Byakuya, a Shunpo master, during their battle, and even managed to dodge a point-blank attack from Byakuya at the last possible second on several occasions.[3]

Kidō Expert: Kōga possesses great skill in using Kidō in battle. During his battle against Byakuya, he used three powerful, unique Kidō spells in rapid succession without incantation and to great effect.[3]

252Reiatsu radiates

Kōga's Reiatsu.

Immense Spiritual Power: Despite having been only the 3rd Seat of the 6th Division, Kōga possesses an enormous amount of Reiryoku. Ginrei Kuchiki, the 6th Division captain at the time, admitted that Kōga's sheer power far surpassed his own, and Muramasa himself admitted that Kōga's power had not even reached its full potential yet. His Reiatsu is powerful enough to intimidate dozens of unseated Shinigami simply by being exerted, and Kōga can effortlessly kill unseated Shinigami without even releasing his Shikai.[1] Occasionally, Kōga's Reiatsu will flow along the blade of his Zanpakutō when he fights. He is powerful enough to clash evenly with both Ginrei and Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto, who were the only ones with enough power to confront him at the time.[2] Several centuries after being sealed away, Kōga still possesses a huge amount of Reiryoku, and managed to blow Ichigo Kurosaki and Rukia Kuchiki away simply by exerting his Reiatsu.[1] Kōga is powerful enough to fight evenly against and wound Byakuya Kuchiki, one of the most powerful captains of the Gotei 13 and the strongest Head of the Kuchiki Clan to ever live, and nearly killed him at one point. Uniquely, because of his power, Kōga cannot be killed unless his attacker opens their heart to him; otherwise, he can only be sealed away.[3] His Reiatsu is blue.[1] Like Muramasa, Kōga can use his Reiryoku for two unique abilities, which he claims he gave to Muramasa:

File:252Spiritual Threads.gif

Kōga uses his Spiritual Threads.

  • Spiritual Threads: By pointing one of his halberds at his opponent, Kōga can create spiritual threads and manipulate them to immobilize his opponent. Though these spiritual threads are invisible to the naked eye, they can be seen in the shadows cast on nearby surfaces, and Kōga states they work by capturing his opponent's shadow instead of simply their reflection, preventing them from being easily destroyed by a reflection being distorted. However, their hold on an opponent can be nullified if they are cut apart with sufficient force.[3]
KōgaIllusions

Kōga uses his Illusions against Byakuya.

  • Illusions: By sending his Reiryoku into his opponent, Kōga can confuse all five of their senses. This allows him to fake oncoming attacks, create clones of himself to avoid attacks, and make himself appear to be further away than he actually is in order to perform surprise attacks at close range. Kōga claims these are far more than illusions, which he considers "simplistic", and can infuse weapons with his Reiatsu in order to create illusory clones of them when attacking. However, the effects of this ability on an opponent can be nullified if another being acts as a victim's eyes and limbs, such as a Shinigami's Zanpakutō spirit. Additionally, Kōga can only use this ability if his opponent opens their mind to him or lets their guard down.[3]

Enhanced Strength: Kōga possesses a considerable amount of physical strength. He sent four Shinigami flying back with a single slash of his sword,[3] and sent Ginrei flying away with a single kick.[2] Even in his physically withered state, Kōga is strong enough to shatter the remainder of his Zanpakutō with a single downward chop.[3]

Zanpakutō

For the manifested spirit that appears in the Zanpakutō Unknown Tales arc, see Muramasa (Zanpakutō spirit).

File:Muramasa Blade Ep247.png

Muramasa and its sheath.

Muramasa (村正, Village-Just): Kōga's Zanpakutō takes the form of a normal katana with a dull red sheath, a purple hilt, and a guard consisting of a circle with a pentagon-like shape in the center and three evenly-spaced points protruding from the edges. Muramasa is an illusion-type Zanpakutō.[1] As Kōga descended into insanity, his harmony with Muramasa deteriorated more and more, leading to him losing access to Muramasa's powers.[2] Eventually, Kōga shattered the blade with his bare hand, permanently severing his bond with his Zanpakutō.[3]

  • Shikai: Its release command is "Whisper" (囁け, sasayake).[1]
File:250Muramasa's release.gif

Kōga releases Muramasa.

Shikai Special Ability: Upon release, Muramasa glows purple and releases a 360-degree wave of purple energy into the surrounding area, causing all Zanpakutō in the area to turn on their wielder. The Zanpakutō will move on their own against their wielder's will, attack their allies, or even turn against their own wielder.[1] Additionally, Kōga can temporarily summon Muramasa to attack his foes by releasing his Zanpakutō. The only way to combat its power is by understanding how the Zanpakutō works and sealing one's heart against it. However, in addition to remaining able to fight in this state, one must have incredible Reiryoku and mental fortitude in order to block the attack itself.[2]
  • Yūkōjōchū Muramasa (有鉤条虫村正, Hooked Tapeworm Village-Just): Upon a large explosion of spiritual energy, Muramasa manifests himself into the real world. Muramasa has the ability to manifest in his true form, and can even manifest himself at a distance from his master because he can hear Kōga's call from wherever he is. Muramasa can also manifest his sealed sword form and engage his powers independently of Kōga's command.[1]
File:250Zanpakuto Spirit Manifestation.gif

Muramasa manifests several Zanpakutō spirits.

  • Zanpakutō Spirit Manifestation: Muramasa generates a burst of energy that affects the Zanpakutō of all in the vicinity. When this takes place, the Zanpakutō of other wielders glow with a blue light as their Zanpakutō spirits manifest, typically as tangible shadowy figures from weaker Shinigami and with greater individuality and power from stronger Shinigami.[1] Muramasa can break into the inner world of his targets and force their Zanpakutō spirits to bend to his will. This is done by removing the energy stability between Shinigami and Zanpakutō spirit, leaving the spirit confused and allowing Muramasa to forcibly release their negative emotions.[9]
  • Bankai: Not Achieved.

Quotes

  • (To Muramasa) "You're right. Trusting in myself is the answer, and that in turn will lead to peace."[1]
  • (To Muramasa) "Let me make one thing clear, Muramasa. I am the master here, and as such I am in charge. I will not be ordered around by a Zanpakutō spirit!"[1]
  • (To Ginrei Kuchiki) "I thought they were misguided. I assumed they had made a mistake about my intentions and were feeling guilty about their behavior. I was wrong! They knew what they had done, and were laughing about it! Killing them was the only option, but it didn't help! Even though it was just, it didn't make the empty feeling go away! I still feel like an outcast!"[2]
  • (To Ginrei Kuchiki) "I get it now. You have the same attitude. You're just like those other men! You pretend you're on my side, you befriend me, put me off-guard! However, that's not how you really feel! The truth is, you hate me! You and the others are jealous of my power!"[2]
  • "I'm surrounded by enemies. It's obvious everyone hates me. I'll have to kill them, all of them. I have to do whatever is necessary to survive. Why does everyone around here hate me so much? Is it because they're all jealous of my power? That has to be the reason. They want to bring me down. I'll just have to strike back at them first. There is only one way to deal with these people..."[2]
  • (To Muramasa) "Our vision? What do you mean by the word 'our'? You've got a lot of nerve! Tell me something: do you actually consider yourself my equal? Let me remind you: you're my sword, so don't get too cocky! Just do as you're told and keep your mouth shut!"[2]
  • (To Ginrei Kuchiki) "Ideals? Don't make me laugh. There are no ideals in this world. We're all left with only one thing: the despair of not being able to make those ideals come true. But I've now discovered that despair releases my true power. Despair is the force that breaks my shackles and frees my heart to do as it truly wishes!"[2]
  • (To Ginrei Kuchiki) "Those with power are the ones who get to impose order on this world, and in the midst of chaos, that order prevails right or wrong! If that power is victorious, even if it's dark, black will become the color of what's right!"[2]
  • (To Muramasa) "As a Shinigami and your master, I was the one who gave birth to your power! All you ever needed to do in your life after that was simply obey me! To me, you've always been nothing more than a sword, simply a mere tool of mine...and a mere tool shouldn't be so conceited!"[2]
  • (To Muramasa) "You've become nothing more than a hindrance to me. I don't need to use a pathetic, unstable sword like you. My power alone is enough."[3]
  • (To Ichigo Kurosaki) "A Zanpakutō is merely a tool. There are countless replacements."[3]
  • (To Byakuya Kuchiki) "My enemies' skills are so irrelevant! Everyone falls to their knees before me, and it's all because of my own power! I don't need anything from a Zanpakutō! I'm the most powerful Shinigami to ever live!"[3]
  • (To Senbonzakura) "No one acknowledged what I did despite all my successes. Instead, they branded me a traitor and tried to seal me away! If that was going to be the case, I had to create a place for myself somewhere! Order is created by power! With my power, I'm going to become king of the new world!"[3]
  • (To Byakuya Kuchiki) "My power is like no other! It is an absolute power that has no equal, not here or anywhere else in the universe!"[3]

References

  1. 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.16 1.17 1.18 1.19 1.20 Bleach anime; Episode 250
  2. 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 2.11 2.12 2.13 2.14 2.15 2.16 2.17 2.18 Bleach anime; Episode 251
  3. 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 3.08 3.09 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 3.15 3.16 3.17 3.18 3.19 3.20 Bleach anime; Episode 252
  4. 4.0 4.1 Bleach anime; Episode 248
  5. Bleach anime; Episode 230
  6. Bleach anime; Episode 234
  7. Bleach anime; Episode 249
  8. Bleach anime; Episode 253
  9. Bleach anime; Episode 257

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