Tenken

Tenken remains composed even during intense combat. He communicates mostly through gestures, growls, and the assistance of Gonryōmaru, who attributes his silence to shyness resembling that of his master.

He is protective of Gonryōmaru and restrains himself when his companion could be harmed. His only clear spoken word is “Bankai,” delivered when transforming for battle. Once freed from Muramasa’s control, he cooperates readily with the Shinigami.

Tenken combines immense strength with captain-class spiritual power. He defeats Sajin Komamura with one attack while the rebellion begins, fights Suì-Fēng at close range, and withstands an extended clash with Kenpachi Zaraki.

He carries a large katana and a pair of bolas. The bolas can bind an opponent, pull a heavy target off balance, or serve as flaming close- and long-range weapons. Tenken also launches fireballs and streams of flame, which Gonryōmaru calls the “Flames of Hell.”

Tenken can invoke Kokujō Tengen Myō’ō, transforming himself into the enormous armored giant associated with Komamura’s Bankai. This form greatly increases his physical power and can release destructive red energy waves.

Tenken is among the Zanpakutō spirits materialized and controlled by Muramasa. After striking down Komamura, he joins Gonryōmaru in fighting Suì-Fēng and later blocks Kenpachi’s passage through the rebels’ cavern.

Yachiru Kusajishi notices that Tenken and Gonryōmaru are avoiding genuine attacks on Kenpachi. Once Kenpachi incapacitates Gonryōmaru, Tenken stops restraining himself and activates Bankai, but Kenpachi ultimately defeats him.

Tenken subsequently helps destroy Gillians and hunt the Tōjū. During the final battle with Kirikaze, he creates fissures and attacks alongside the other spirits. He returns permanently to sword form after Kirikaze’s defeat.

Sajin Komamura is Tenken’s master and the source reflected by his physical strength, reserve, and Zanpakutō abilities.

Gonryōmaru is Tenken’s closest companion. He speaks for Tenken and understands his otherwise minimal communication.

Muramasa forces Tenken to rebel. Suì-Fēng and Kenpachi Zaraki become his principal opponents, while Yachiru Kusajishi recognizes his reluctance to endanger Gonryōmaru.