Bleach TYBW: The Bond Between Kyoraku and Nanao, Explained

Summary

Shunsui Kyoraku is Nanao’s uncle, not just her captain.
Shunsui honors his late brother and sister-in-law with mementos.
Shunsui likely kept Nanao close to protect her, his only family.

As a longtime follower of the Bleach series, I can’t help but feel deeply moved by the intricate bond between Shunsui Kyoraku and Nanao Ise. Their relationship transcends the typical captain-lieutenant dynamic, delving into the realm of family ties that have been forged through a shared history of loss and love.

Shunsui, a seasoned veteran who has seen the passing of many dear friends and loved ones, finds solace in his young niece Nanao. He carries with him the memory of his late brother Shunzan and sister-in-law Isuzu through their shared hairpins and kimono, symbols of a love that continues to endure long after their physical presence has vanished.

Their bond is one that goes beyond work or experience; it’s a testament to the strength of the connections that bind the Shinigami together. Shunsui, in his battle-worn heart, cherishes Nanao as the last family he has left. He stands steadfastly by her side, offering unwavering support and protection, even on the brink of death, for fear of leaving her alone to face the terrifying foes that lurk in the shadows.

While some fans may speculate a romantic entanglement between these two characters, I believe their bond is one built on love, respect, and familial devotion. It serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of family ties, even when tested by the crucible of war.

In closing, let me leave you with this little jest: I suppose if Shunsui ever felt that his protective instincts were being overstepped, he’d simply remind Nanao, “Sweetheart, I’m not just your captain, I’m also your uncle… and I’ve got a sword for that!” May their bond continue to inspire us all as we await the next chapter in this captivating tale of love, loss, and camaraderie.

In the world of Bleach, it’s typical for lieutenants to have a strong bond with their captains. For instance, Shunsui Kyoraku, our current head captain, has a special relationship with his lieutenant Nanao Ise. This is reminiscent of the fatherly guidance and mentorship between Juushiro Ukitake and Rukia Kuchiki, the deep respect and admiration between Byakuya Kuchiki and Renji Abarai, or the spiritual link shared by Kenpachi Zaraki and his Zanpakutou, Yachiru Kusajishi, also known as Nozarashi.

In Bleach, it’s important to understand that Shunsui and Nanao share a unique bond. To the lieutenant, they may seem merely captain and subordinate, but the truth is far deeper. Shunsui holds a significant role in Nanao’s life – he is both her respected captain and her cherished uncle. This dual relationship makes their connection stronger than one might initially perceive.

Shunsui Kyoraku, Carrying that Weight

A Man of Many Losses

In his youth, Shunsui frequently visited his older brother Shunzan who, upon marriage, had grown more affable and the two eventually formed a bond. Shunzan was married to Isuzu Ise, a gracious lady belonging to the Ise clan, a family of priests. However, the Ise clan was rumored to be under a curse. They were a matrilineal lineage, with only females being born and husbands adopted into the family. Yet, they were plagued by a curse: any man who wed an Ise woman would meet an untimely demise. Regrettably, this fate befell Shunzan Kyoraku, leaving behind a keepsake for Shunsui – a violet hairpin that Isuzu had given to him.

Years down the line, Isuzu reached out to me, asking me to safeguard what she believed was the origin of the curse – our family’s ceremonial sword, the Shinken Hakkyoken. Unbeknownst to her at that moment, her young daughter, Nanao, was within earshot. This marked the first time Nanao ever laid eyes on her uncle, all while remaining unaware of his true persona. Tragically, Isuzu would later face execution for the offense of misplacing a sacred artifact. Afterward, Shunsui paid tribute to both his late brother and sister-in-law by wearing Isuzu’s hairpin and her pink flower kimono. As an ardent admirer of our history, I found this tale particularly moving.

Nanao Ise, A Set-Up Path

Destined for Squad 8

At the Academy, young Nanao once observed the captain of squad eight at a particular location. Something about this man caught her eye. He was adorned with hairpins and a pink kimono with floral patterns, which reminded her strikingly of what her mother used to wear. Later, she joined squad eight under his command, and upon seeing him again, she recalled the man who had spoken with her mom long ago when she was just a child.

I sense that the person I care for might dismiss the idea of a curse as absurd and find humor in it instead.

Over the course of time, Nanao ascended to the position of lieutenant within Squad Eight, working closely with Captain Shunsui Kyoraku. Their professional bond was tight, yet Shunsui often displayed a paternalistic concern towards her, constantly vigilant in guarding and safeguarding her from potential perils. Initially, Nanao might have attributed this behavior to her lack of a Zanpakutou, but the truth was more complex; she was actually quite dear to the captain than she realized. It’s speculated that it was Shunsui himself who sent Nanao to Squad Eight with the intention of keeping her near and shielding her.

Shunsui and Nanao, Uncle and Niece

A Promise to the Lost Family

In the course of his fight against Sternritter X – Lille Barro, Shunsui confides in Nanao about their unique bond. It turns out that Nanao is actually Shunsui’s niece, being the daughter of his brother Shunzan. To protect her from danger, Shunsui had vowed to his mother, Isuzu, to safeguard the Shinken Hakkyoken, as she believed the blade carried a curse. However, with Lille Barro proving far too powerful for even Shunsui, Nanao implored him to hand over the Shinken Hakkyoken, as it was said to be a sword potent enough to vanquish a deity.

In light of this disclosure, Shunsui’s affectionate behavior towards Nanao becomes more understandable. By the time of this battle, Shunsui had tragically lost everyone dear to him. His brother Shunzan, sister-in-law Isuzu, father Yamamoto (Head Captain), mentor Captain Unohana, and friend Captain Ukitake were all taken from him, during different conflicts. Nanao is essentially the only kin he has left, the cherished niece he’d do anything to safeguard.

Shunsui Kyoraku is not just Nanao’s captain, he’s her uncle.
Shunsui honors his late brother and sister-in-law by wearing their hairpins and kimono.
Shunsui most likely accepted Nanao into Squad 8 to keep her close and protect her.
Shunsui lost all his loved ones, Nanao is the only family he has left.

He always keeps tokens connected to his brother and sister-in-law with him, in his hairpins and kimono. Now, Nanao serves as his tribute to their bond. Regardless of the circumstances, Shunsui is determined to safeguard Nanao. As she confronts Lille, he remains by her side, offering her unwavering support. Even in moments where death seems imminent, he feels compelled to stay with her, for he cannot fathom abandoning her when facing such a formidable adversary.

It’s not accurate to speculate that Shunsui and Nanao are romantically involved as some fans may assume. Instead, their connection transcends the roles of captain and lieutenant. In truth, they are uncle and niece, and they represent the deep ties that bind the Shinigami. These bonds extend far beyond job responsibilities or experience. They serve to keep them close, a testament to the enduring relationships within their community. For a man who’s lost everyone, his remaining relative – his cherished niece – remains a precious beacon in his battle-scarred heart.

2024-12-29 05:42