The official "Bleach" manga is coming to an end with the upcoming release of chapter 686. The previous chapter saw the final defeat of the villain Yhwach, although according to a report from Ecumencial News, it is highly speculated Yhwach has escaped. Chapter 686 won't be focusing on his demise, however.
Hall of Fame Magazine points out that the final chapter will instead see Ichigo return to the human world. It is further stated he will reunite with his allies Inoue, Chad and Uryuu. After reuniting, Ichigo's father Isshin will approach and inform Ichigo that Rukia has been welcomed as the newest captain and member of the Gotei 13.
Ichigo won't immediately agree to visiting the Soul Society due to past issues but he will change his mind once Isshin informs him of Rukia's new position. Ichigo and his friends will then decide to go visit and congratulate Rukia in person.
Popular theory is that Ichigo will become the new Captain Commander of the Soul Society, replacing Kyoraku Shunsui, and that Inoue will be his wife. These rumors have yet to be proven and should be taken with a grain of salt.
As pointed out in a report from Yibada, Yhwach was not killed and it is speculated that he simply escaped to the future. If this proves true then the finale chapter might include a time jump that sees a more peaceful Soul Society and Ichigo hunting down Yhwach to take him out permanently.
The report also states that with the finale chapter there will be a big announcement from the team behind "Bleach," including series creator Tite Kubo, that there will be a spin-off series now that the main series is over. It is possible that this spin-off will be a prequel focusing on the early days of the Soul Society or a sequel series focusing on a new character.
"Bleach" chapter 686 will be released on Aug. 22.
