The rescue turns into an all out brawl as Tsukiyama finally shows his true strength. Touka and Nishiki fight desperately against a monster far stronger than they expected. Kaneki is forced to watch the people he cares about bleed for him. Tsukiyama proves here why he is one of the most frightening villains in the series.
With Amon down, a new figure steps onto the battlefield, and the air itself seems to freeze. Kishou Arima, the CCG’s undefeated Reaper, has arrived. Every ghoul present knows his name, and every one of them is afraid. Arima’s arrival changes the entire atmosphere of the battlefield instantly.
Kaneki’s crew clashes with Aogiri patrols, testing their strength. Banjou proves himself in battle, earning Kaneki’s trust. Each small victory brings them closer to the heart of the enemy. Banjou earning Kaneki’s trust is a satisfying small victory.
Kaneki stands where it all began, remembering the shy boy who loved books. He is someone else now, shaped by pain and love in equal measure. He would not trade the journey, not even the worst of it. Kaneki remembering the shy boy he was adds a poignant layer.
Arima moves like death itself, cutting down ghouls without effort. Kaneki watches, realizing the gap between them. But he cannot run, not with his friends behind him. He steps forward to face the Reaper alone. You understand immediately why every ghoul fears the name Arima.
News of Jason’s death sends shockwaves through the underworld. Kaneki’s name starts carrying a different kind of weight now. Those who once pitied him are beginning to fear him, and he is fine with that. The underworld’s reaction to Kaneki’s deed shows how much he has changed the game.
Pushed past his limit, something awakens inside Kaneki. His kagune bursts forth for the first time in a surge of raw power. The frightened boy is gone, replaced by something wild and furious that even Tsukiyama did not expect. Kaneki’s awakening is one of the most iconic moments in the entire manga.