Before they can use the cannon, the group must first learn to focus their spirit energy into a device called a Spirit Orb. Chad, Uryu and Orihime have little problems learning to do this, though Ichigo finds the job difficult despite his powerful spirit energy. This is especially frustrating since it is his only way to rescue Rukia, whom he feels indebted to. Ichigo ends up finding the answer to his problems from an unlikely source, his new rival, Ganju. As the group prepares for their trip, a meeting is called between the Soul Reaper captains in order to discuss the intruders and Gin Ichimaru's failure to kill them.
As the meeting between the captains continues, Ichigo and his friends break through the shield protecting Seireitei. Their entry is anything but sneaky and sets off an alarm as well as putting on a spectacular light show. The bubble carrying the group breaks apart and sends the group in different directions, splitting them up. Ishida and Orihime land together, as do Ichigo and Ganju, while Chad and Yoruichi are left to fend for themselves.
With the group split up and behind the walls of Seireitei, they begin their search for each other and any information on Rukia. Ichigo and Ganju run into two 11th division members. Ikkaku and Yumichika. Ichigo enters combat with Ikkaku, who manages to overpower Ichigo using his upgraded zanpakuto. Meanwhile, Ganju tries to escape Yumichika using his magic.
Although Ichigo is able to defeat Ikkaku, he is injured in the process. Ganju finally stops running and faces Yumichika, but not after covering a good deal of Seireitei. As this is going on, the others continue their searches.
Bleach 07: The Entry is an even mix of character building and action. The first two episodes are mainly exposition, with the only action being the constant arguments between Ichigo and Ganju. However, the only blows in these fights are from Kukaku, who is the only one that is able to handle the two rivals. These fights are more comedy than drama and do a great job at setting up their parallel personalities. Most of the first episode is geared towards building up Ganju's background and motivation for disliking Ichigo as well as showing that he does have some respect for him. A few seeds involving discord within the Soul Reapers are planted, as are a few hints that Uryu may have some interest in Orihime.
The second two episodes are mostly action, and probably the closest thing Bleach ever gets to feeling like an episode of Dragon Ball Z, where action usually trumps storytelling. The fight between Ichigo and Ikkaku is amazing; not only does it show a new Soul Reaper power, but it also sets a few limitations on Ichigo, who seemed a little too good after his fight with Jidanbo.
Bleach 07: The Entry comes with the usual assortment of extras. Of particular note is that after the first episode, the introduction sequence changes, which helps to strengthen the more action-oriented feel of the second story arc. As always, Bleach 07: The Entry is a must buy for fans, but not a good entry point for newcomers.
