Previously, it was said that the popular "Bleach" manga will end with chapter 685. However, it turns out that the current chapter is only the penultimate one, with chapter 686 serving as the finale when it is released on Aug. 22.
In the latest chapter, almost ten years has passed since the battle against Ywach, the head Quincy for the "Thousand-Year Blood War" arc in "Bleach." Almost all things are already settled in Soul Society. It is also revealed that changes happened in-between, like Kuchiki Rukia now becoming the captain of the 13th Squad. Meanwhile, there is still no sign of what happened to Ichigo.
According to speculations, "Bleach" mangaka Tite Kubo is penning the finale for release on Aug. 22. Meanwhile, though the manga is ending, the final chapter 686 will come out with a special, major announcement from the creator. While it is unclear on what Kubo and his team are preparing for, rumor has it that "Bleach" may get its anime continuation. In addition, the continuation will reportedly cover events not seen in the original manga adaptation.
Should this happen, this is welcome news for fans, who may feel unsatisfied with the manga ending. Prior to the upcoming chapter, questions remain unanswered such as what happened to Ichigo and Uryuu's fathers, the full power of Kurosaki Isshin, and the Bankai skill of Aizen.
The ending of the manga came as a surprise for hardcore fans, since it seems that the chapters were rushed. Speculations suggest that Kubo may be thinking of at least a year's worth of materials before ending "Bleach," but its publisher has to cut off the manga early.
Meanwhile, aside from an anime continuation, it is also rumored that "Bleach" may get a spin-off title, with the adaptation focusing on a story prequel, detailing the early days of Soul Society.
