War of the Thirteen Sacred-Ancient Swords Chapter 11, a bleach fanfic

AN: So this update took longer than I had intended. Wanted to post it several days ago but just didn't feel like it was ready.

This update is the longest thus far because as some of you agree, it is taking me too much time to progress the story. This battle could have been extended several more chapters, but decided that it needed to be over so that I may progress to the upcoming and eventual war.

Shout outs to kurie-tibiti, Scarease, Dark Prime0, and Aishiburu for taking my AN seriously and leaving a reply. Thanks!

Oh and I will be removing the AN chapter after a couple days.

_/*\_

Chapter 11: Ichigo vs Sakkaku (Part 3)

_/*\_

Tokyo: Outskirts: 9:05am

Three hours passed since the Hogyoku's plan to transfer its entire being to Ichigo to assist him in his fight. In that time, Ichigo suffered horrifying pains and torture from the mighty foe that is Sakkaku. Every scratch and cut against his skin, broken bones, impaled and rupturing of internal organs, and even loss of limbs were the experiences the young adult had gone through. And though the pain inflicted was nothing he ever felt before, Ichigo's mental pain was so far severe. The true scare was what the legendary sword had spoken just right before her onslaught. 'I am the embodiment of all illusions. And I can at will make any one of my illusions into a reality!' After every life inflicting wound was sustained onto Ichigo's human body, he would collapse and pass out into darkness, only to be completely restored by a mere snap of fingers and a reawakening of his conscious. How many times had he been murdered and brought back to life only to find it to be a reality made of illusions? How many times his zanpakuto spirits screamed in pain and anguish as their wielder was stuck down and their inner world crumbling apart only to be fully restored seconds later? And the worst part is Ichigo remembering each and every tormenting moment in these mere three hours. Everything her blade touch could become her play thing and Ichigo was the rag doll of her assaults.

But now the tables were indefinitely turned. Ichigo scarified time and again to save those he cares about and for once in his life, he is rewarded. But despite the now increase of power, something remained allusive inside his being. A question that has been daunting on him ever since he came to the assumption of his foe being the forsaken blade owned by Aizen: Kyoka Suigetsu. Ichigo of course had several unique abilities and one is being able to understand his opponent through clashing of blades. But no matter how many times he does so with Sakkaku, he could not figure her out. The 'why' is what plagued his thoughts and the 'who' didn't matter. And in this new battle where he now stood a chance, Ichigo hoped to find out just what this Kyoka Suigetsu/Sakkaku person is about.

"Prepare yourself."

With no other words spoken, the Vasto Lorde form Ichigo now took with his former black Bankai in hand charged forth with blinding speed towards Sakkaku. His blade slices down quickly giving Sakkaku almost no time to block and hits diagonally down her torso. Sakkaku winces and backs off via shunpo but to her dismay, Ichigo had already begun moving with sonido and attacks again with another successful strike to her body; this time being a horizontal cut across her abdomen. Ichigo continues further by grabbing her face and throwing her across the open landscape and colliding with a tree at the other edged of the small pond in the area.

The now heavily injured Sakkaku groans loudly against the tree and refrains from movement as she struggles to activate her illusionary power from her sword. Ichigo on the other hand refrains from attacking further to try to analyze the current situation. 'Way to go using your instincts King!' The Hollow side of his zanpakuto screeches from within the inner world. Though Ichigo normally would have ignored the statement from the boisterous Hollow part, he instead replies aloud, "Something isn't right." Despite the Hogyoku now floating in the center of his hollow hole, Ichigo could feel the magical orb heat up. Just from the action, Ichigo could tell that the Hogyoku's thoughts are one in the same. Something wasn't right. Sakkaku's power is almost godly, but once the Hogyoku was taken from her, the power she once held seemed to drop significantly. She wasn't the same person she was before in the past several hours of fighting. 'You were connected to her. What's going on?' Ichigo asks.

'I am not sure. Remember that she and I weren't in unison. She retained most control and only took energy and power from me.' The Hogyoku replies. The spirit itself was even confused. Her powers were so immense just moments ago and now she held nothing but a title of a 7th seated Soul Reaper. This thought would only further to confuse Ichigo as he gazed at the spot of the fallen woman across the pond. Unbeknownst to Ichigo however, were the several sets of eyes that watched from a distant hiding in the greenery of the forest. Said eyes had just appeared to see Ichigo deliver the onslaught of attacks against Sakkaku.

The next thing Ichigo knew is the very interesting position he now found himself in. The appearance of four people had flooded into the area with drawn swords and a mix of facial expressions. Two of the individuals held their swords against Ichigo's Hollowfied form; one to the front of his neck and the other against his back. The remaining two stood in front of Ichigo with their swords clasp tightly in their hands. Normally Ichigo could handle himself in any situation, but considering who had just appeared, the scenario became quickly unlikely in fighting against them in his current state. Ichigo desired enough power to fight against Sakkaku without breaking the seal on his back. But what Ichigo didn't want was to fight against four Arrancar; especially two whom he is very familiar with.

"Hah would you look it that." The first and most arrogant of the four spoke up. The Arrancar male stood just taller than Ichigo by two inches, has blue spikey hair and light blue eyes, his mask fragment across his right cheek, and Hollow hole in his abdomen. The man in questioned sheaths his sword and stalks towards Ichigo after placing both of his hands into his pockets. The man wears an amusing grin as he slowly approaches Ichigo to get a better look.

"Grimmjow!" The voice of a woman speaks up with a harsh serious tone. Grimmjow ignores the voice and gets within reach of Ichigo. "So a Vasto Lorde is the source of the problem?" Grimmjow replies with a smirk before quickly sending a quick jab to Ichigo's exposed gut. Ichigo however does not flinch but instead only tightens the grip on his black zanpakuto and staring back viciously with piercing yellow eyes.

"Stand aside, Grimmjow!" The voice of the woman is heard commandingly as a wave of pink spiritual pressure is spread across the area. Grimmjow's amusing grin soon turns to a frown of displeasure and annoyance, "Tch." Closing his eyes, he returns to his original position back by the woman's side and then looks elsewhere to avoid her angry gaze.

"You're the boss." He replies sarcastically.

The woman ignores his comment and returns her gaze to the unknown Hollow before her. The woman is well endowed with long flowing green hair, teal eyes, a crimson line going across her face, and her Hollow fragment atop her head. She is dressed in the same attire she had previous years ago: which included a long white shirt and pants. "Drop your weapon." She commanded to Ichigo. He however completely ignores the statement as he continues to observer the woman whom he thought would never see in her adult form again. Shock could never truly describe what he saw; luckily his Hollow form could not show facial expressions. 'Oh Kingy! I totally forgot about that hot ass!' Ichigo's inner Hollow chirped in, which to Ichigo's annoyance, has caused him to growl out unintentionally. The result caused Nel to grasp her blade tighter and her eyes to grow even more serious than it had been seconds before. And if Ichigo could groan without pissing her off anymore he totally would. Despite being in full understanding of his zanpakuto, his Hollow side can still be a pain in the ass.

"Drop your sword." Nel repeats, her sword now raised and held with both hands. Ichigo didn't want to cause any more trouble than necessary and obliged to his unknowing old friend's request. Ichigo releases his hold on his sword and it drops to the ground. While her stare remains direct and strong, Ichigo visibly sees a breath escape her lips hoping her nerves settle down even the slightest amount.

"Karos. Take the weapon." Ichigo notices the man identified as Karos, who held the blade to his throat, kicks the weapon aside and towards Nel. Ichigo recognizes the man briefly, but knew nothing about him. All he knew was that he took Orihime when he was so close to saving her back in Hueco Mundo.

"You take it. There is something peculiar about this Vasto Lorde. I rather have my blade still against his neck." Karos replies. The man stood slightly taller than Grimmjow and has dark brown hair, blue-grey eyes, his mask fragment at the base of his neck, and his Hollow hole just below the fragment. The final Arrancar standing behind Ichgio with her sword to his back is Karos' partner and other half: Yinnette.

Nel agreeing with Karos' analyst picks up Ichigo's former Bankai. The blade itself gave Nel goose bumps, though she could not figure out why. Her instincts told her that there is something special about the blade; that it holds some special meaning. But for the life of her, she could not remember why. Well despite the feelings, she had her orders.

"Grimmjow. Get rid of this for me." She tosses the blade to him which he reluctantly agrees in doing so. He would take his time to observe the blade himself and have the same feeling that Nel has, but is more disgusted by it. 'I know this piece of shit metal and it pisses me off.'

Ichigo remains calm despite watching his own zanpakuto being chucked into the large pond, but what concerned him more at the very second was at the other side of that pond. As the blade hit the water's surface, Ichigo noticed that Sakkaku was nowhere to be found, but her rainbow like energy swirled around near where she had landed.

'This is not good Ichigo.' The Hogyoku speaks out. 'Despite weaken, Sakkaku is still a threat. I advise going after her now.'

'I agree.' Ichigo's three zanpakuto spirits spoke in unison. 'While our powers are active, you must go and defeat her. Lest that everyone's lives here are in danger.'

Ichigo's natural instinct to protect quickly began to fill his being. The only problem is being surrounded by people he did not wish to fight. The only reason he took upon the Hollow form was its powerful instant regeneration ability in case of new injuries. 'I agree, but no way in hell that I go in without a plan. My instincts won't help me here. Hogyoku, I do have an idea, but it will take some time and only if you are willing to agree.' The blueish sphere would read into Ichigo's thoughts and couldn't have been happier that he was finally being accepted as a person or conscious rather than a tool or weapon. The plan Ichigo had in mind is highly dangerous and could easily be fatal to both Ichigo and the Hogyoku, but would give a higher percentage against their current threat. With a long drawn out breath, Ichigo closes his eyes. Both Karos and Nel quickly notice this and were astounded. Hollows do gain intelligence as they evolve, but this Vasto Lorde seemed almost too intelligent for its own good. Deciding now would be a good time than ever to ask questions, Nel speaks up again.

"Surely you aren't mindless. You betrayed the rules of Harribel's order and came to the human world. What are your motives?"

If Ichigo wasn't concentrating so hard into his meditation, he would have laughed at her tone of voice. The Nel he knew was much more childish in nature and also kind. Whomever this woman was, this is not the Nel Ichigo remembers. Despite her words, Ichigo ignores her and continues his silent meditation.

"Answer her!" An impatient Yinnette yells out while pushing her own blade further against Ichigo's back. Both she and Karos have the same thoughts being that they are one in the same. However, despite this, both were more intrigued by this Hollow's weird behavior. Ichigo's Hollow form is so menacing that for him to remain calm was well misplaced. It is so extremely rare to actually see a peaceful Vasto Lorde among Hueco Mundo. The mere thought is unnerving for both Nel and Karos. Their race is chaotic and only Harribel ever thought to give some order and dominance to the realm other than Aizen. Their forces are extremely weak after back to back wars and to finally find a Vasto Lorde that is somewhat peaceful is unheard of. Ichigo however, is not a true Hollow in any sense of the word. The current form he took only showed direct reliance on his sleeping Hollow powers that the Hogyoku had freed from the seal.

"Still no response?" Nel asked becoming impatient while readying her battle stance to strike at the calm hollow. However, before she could continue, a voice speaks out and interrupts her train of thought. "I would wait just a moment."

Suddenly several traditional Japanese sliding doors appear in the sky with the silhouettes of five people standing behind them. Grimmjow draws his sword once more and backtracks to his group. Nel, Karos, and Yinnette draw their attention to the sky. Ichigo opens one eye for a brief second before internally smirking and then reclosing his eye again to continue meditating. If Arrancar showed up to investigate the Hogyoku disappearance, then it is a no-brainer that Soul Reapers would show as well. But once again, had Ichigo paid attention, shock would have filled his being again. There appearing from the door and then softly landing on the ground are three Captain Class Soul Reapers and two lieutenants. The appearance could be considered déjà vu like the last time they had a mission in the human world when they appeared to restore Ichigo's powers; but this time with some differences. Captains Zaraki and Hitsugaya along with Lieutenant Kuchiki are the same, however, newly appointed Captain of squad 3: Renji Abari and Lieutenant Shuuhei replaces Captian Kuchiki and 3rd seat Madarame respectively for the mission. Hisagi was sent for the mission to prepare for his upcoming Captain's proficiency test.

Captain-Commander Kyoraku gave leadership to Hitsugaya for the mission knowing full well that Kenpachi wouldn't and that Renji, Rukia, and Hisagi are not yet experienced enough in terms of negotiations. Toshiro slowly approaches the Arrancar and bows his head out of custom.

"I am acting leader for my group. Captain of Squad 10: Toshiro Hitsugaya." He speaks formally. Nel likewise bows and sheaths her sword; also notions over to Grimmjow to sheath his.

"I am Head-General of Hueco Mundo: Neliel tu Odelschwank. I am my team's leader and was informed of your eventual arrival." Nel speaks in a calm and clear manner. While neither she nor Toshiro are allies, but at this particular moment they were also not enemies. Within this very rare circumstance, Nel shows a more direct and calm dialect when speaking. She does not despise all Soul Reapers, but in the end, they are still her enemy.

"As were we. Are you still upholding your end of the treaty?" Hitsugaya answers while reaching for his sword. This response causes all present to reach for their weapons as well save for Karos and Yinnette who held their swords in their positions. Grimmjow growls violently and draws his blade. Kenpachi in response grins wildly and brings his out at well. "Ready to play Arrancar?"

"You dare think we have a choice in the matter?" Grimmjow growls again and brings his blade close to his chest and other hand on the blade readying to resurrect. The tension between both groups nearly sky rockets. However, Nel dispels the tension swiftly. "Quiet Grimmjow." She glares at her partner. Grimmjow tensely puts his sword away and then slowly retreats in an opposite direction to blow off some steam. Nel is a force to be reckoned with considering that she is a former 3rd Espada. Not even Grimmjow would stand against her despite his attitude; especially now that she is almost at full strength.

"Yes we are. As the treaty follows, we willingly agree to assist in solving the problematic issue. As you are now aware, we already have found the culprit which we identified as one of our own." Nel speaks and moving to the side to reveal the captured Vasto Lorde. Toshiro acknowledges and tells his remaining group to calm down as no fighting is to immediately take place. However, Rukia and Renji are definitely not thrilled by the hollow's appearance. They instantly recognized the form.

"Renji, you don't think…" Rukia whispers while her eyes remained widen towards Ichigo. "I really hope it isn't. Why would he be here?" Hisagi notices their behavior but decides not to speak or act on it and Kenpahci is completely oblivious.

"I understand. I appreciate your cooperation to the treaty, General Odelschwank." Hitsugaya replies. "Have you identified who or the reason behind your Vasto Lorde's actions?"

The treaty was created after the end of the Quincy War when both sides were thoroughly demolished. In the case and likely event that something would threaten every world, both Soul Society and Hueco Mundo decided to temporarily team up to deal with the problem. The idea was initially theorized due to the fact Ichigo retired right after the Quincy War and wanted to live a normal life again. And while the Soul Society hates to admit it, Ichigo is by far their strongest asset. If he chooses to retire, they couldn't stop him even if they tried. However, Ichigo willingly kept good terms with the Soul Society and accepted the seal from the Royal Guards. The powerful tattoo seal on Ichigo's back is the symbol that is recognized for the peace treaty. The rules to the treaty are simple yet sound:

Ichigo Kurosaki is to be kept informed in monthly intervals via messenger. The information pertains to only what is deemed necessary for him to hear. All other information is left confidential.

Ichigo Kurosaki, unless acting on own self-interest, is to be left out of all spiritual affairs.

Soul Society and Hueco Mundo both must inform one another before acting towards any worldly conflicts. This includes number of members going and at minimum one leading officer.

"We have not. You had just arrived before I started interrogating. While we clearly see the Hogyoku with the Vasto Lorde, we are still very suspicious. This Hollow was fighting with another before we got here. We did not recognize that person either." Nel offers Toshiro a closer look. The two approach Ichigo slowly and notice that Ichigo had still remained not only silent, but still and calm. While Ichigo could hear everything around him, he refrains from opening his eye so his concentration would not lax.

"This Hollow also held a zanpakuto which we had confiscated and removed completely. Normally, we cannot wield a zanpakuto without being an Arrancar and yet this one owned one." Karos decided to join in the conversation. Toshiro nods and takes a moment to observe Karos and Yinnette. "And not only that, we cannot identify this Vasto Lorde because we have never seen him amongst our ranks. The dark energy spike without a doubt came from this Hollow, but we do not understand how or why he came here."

"Where is this other individual then?"

"We are not sure. The Vasto Lorde severely injured the opponent with consecutive strikes." Nel began and then pointed over across the pond. "Afterwards, whoever was then thrown and crashed into the trees over there."

After some thought and gathering the information, Toshiro nods his head and walks away back to his group. Kenpachi begins grinning after overhearing about the potential of another enemy. That could only mean fun. "Zaraki, Abarai, and Shuuhei, go investigate the area. Kuchiki, you and I will stand guard with this Hollow."

"Karos and Yinnette, assist them in the search." Nel then responds as well and then yells over to her other member. "Grimmjow, take over for Karos!"

While she could admit that pissing off Grimmjow is becoming her recent hobby, she definitely needed him to focus. With a grunt, the man places the edge of his blade against Ichigo's neck and Rukia places her blade against Ichigo's back. With that said, Karos and Yinnette slowly retract their weapons and join in with Kenpachi, Renji and Hisagi. The group of five then goes across the pond to investigate. Nel and Toshiro remain nearby the water's edge to discuss further plans.

"You got stronger wimp." Grimmjow mutters towards Rukia who simply rolls her eyes at the nuisance of an Arrancar. But then Rukia takes a moment to actually observe the Vasto Lorde she is guarding. The Hollow resembled much of Ichigo's Hollow nature, she hasn't seen it in so long, but it is extremely hard to forget it. But after a small moment, her suspicions are confirmed. Being so closed to the Hollow gave her chance to actually concentrate on the reiatsu signature, which to her dismay made it extremely similar to Ichigo. While most present has felt Ichigo's reiastu before, not many of them had ever sense his true Hollow's energy like Rukia and Renji have. Not only that, Ichigo has been easily hiding it from making any more disturbances. "It is you." She whispers to the form, not happy with the revelation. Ichigo's head nods ever so slightly to confirm her thoughts.

Meanwhile, a nagging question has been developing in Toshiro's head about the Arrancar duo of Karos and Yinnette. "Those two helping with my team, they are vaguely familiar. I remember them from the Winter War."

"Yes, they are…" But Nel is interrupted by the appearance of three others. Toshiro and Nel quickly draw their swords to the new 'intruders'. The intruders, as one could guess, are no enemies. Urahara, Yoruichi, and Isshin arrive on scene to see not only Ichigo in Hollow form, but Soul Reapers and Hollows alike working with one another. While Urahara and Yoruichi are a given, but to see Isshin on the scene could be a great surprise.

"My my. Look at all of the familiar faces." Urahara sports a small chuckle. Yoruichi holds a more neutral expression, but her eyes hold great intensity and seriousness. And Isshin could only show off a goofy grin and a relaxed nature. Nel is relieved to see Urahara, but is quite weary of his two allies and does not yet sheath her sword.

"I figured you would appear Urahara, but I'm quite surprised to see you here Lord Shiba." Toshiro speaks and bows before his former Captain. Like Ichigo and his retiring status, Isshin Shiba makes a return to the Seireitei to give his official retiring status as well. The day he made his return surprised so many faces that Isshin had to refrain from laughing. So many thought that Isshin had been KIA, but the truths finally revealed that he took refuge in the human world. Isshin never revealed about Ichigo being his son, but many could already guess. Following that, Isshin went to visit Kukaku. While Kukaku knew of her uncle's living status, she would have never expected to see him appear on her doorstep. The two share a long discussion about the Shiba clan and where to move further. The only true members of the clan left were Kukaku and her brother along with the two gatekeepers. In most noble society's, the older child would take the responsibilities of the family. Isshin was the younger brother of Kukaku's father making Isshin the former head of a branch family instead of the main one. Isshin wanted no misunderstandings or conflicts between him and the clan since now living in the human world. While certain rules state that he should be the new clan leader, Kukaku over looked it saying that she would be just fine; and she being happy to know that she still had family. Things wouldn't have to change as long as Ichigo doesn't do anything stupid since she now recognized him as family. And because Ichigo has noble blood of the Shiba, any further 'stupid' actions would not be tolerated by Kukaku.

"Retired or not, I was not about to walk away against an enemy with the Hogyoku." Isshin replies to his former 3rd seat. With another breath and a pause, Toshiro once more puts away his sword. Nel hesitantly follows his lead seeing the mutual trust between him and the unknown man.

"I was not informed of your arrival Urahara." Nel speaks with slightly narrowed and concerned eyes. Nel is forever in debt to Urahara and Orihime for healing her and her Fraccion, but that didn't mean complete trust. Urahara however doesn't flinch. While he is not a full time soul reaper any more, he is not above the treaty either. Urahara as well as Isshin, Yoruichi, and Tessai are all under the treaty's rules; even extending to the vizards who remained in the human world. But since it was Urahara's responsibility of the Hogyoku, it already makes him prime suspect.

"My apologies." Urahara begins and approaches the duo with an apologetic look. "This city is my home now, so it is assumed that I would show regardless of the treaty or not."

The three begin talking about further motives and about the 'mysterious' Hollow being captive. Isshin and Yoruichi instantly see Ichigo in his Hollowfied form; both showing a similar expression. Isshin and Yoruichi give an annoyed/pissed off look. Rukia notices them and shrugs knowing that they have figured it out as well. Rukia attended the meeting when Isshin had appeared in his Soul Reaper uniform. She probably was shocked the most since having directly living with a former Captain and not realizing it; though it did bring up answers to many questions about Ichigo.

'Tch. I only pay some large amount of money for his education and here he is. Figures.' Isshin thinks rather annoyed, but at the same time sarcastic. Isshin always knew of Ichigo's nature to protect. It would have been odd if Ichigo didn't appear and yet his suspicions were true that the dark energy belonged to Ichigo. But why does he have the Hogyoku? The mere thought eludes him, but his gut tells him that something else was wrong.

"Yoruichi?" Rukia asks slightly surprised when the flash goddess suddenly appears next to Rukia.

"I'll take watch." Yoruichi gives a sadistic grin towards Ichigo. Luckily because of meditation, he does not see her face. "You two go assist with the others."

Rukia sees the look in her eyes and obliges immediately and walks over to Toshiro, Nel, Urahara, and Isshin. 'You better have an explanation Ichigo.' Rukia thinks. Grimmjow on the other hand is getting tired of all the orders and ignores the comment on purpose to piss Yoruichi off. His actions are well enough rewarded; a quick punch from Yoruichi sends the Arrancar flying and crashing into the pond. Nel is pleased by Yoruichi's actions as even she gets tired of Grimmjow's antics. Grimmjow is after all a nuisance and a pain. With a large growl, Grimmjow responds after getting out of the murky water. "The hell with all of you." He disappears once more with a swish of sonido.

"You've got a lot of nerve." Yoruichi mutters quietly to Hollow Ichigo. Ichigo grins and reopens his eyes. He doesn't dare move his head fearing the potential anger stare he may receive. Instead, he views the other end of the pond where he sees Renji, Hisagi, Kenpachi and the two mysterious Arrancar searching the area.

'I've done everything on my end Hogyoku. It's your turn now.' Ichigo would then slowly respond to Yoruichi in an almost inaudible yet very serious voice. His lips barely move, but his voice surely reaches her. "Now is neither the time nor place."

As if on cue, his words release an explosion on the other side of the pond sending the search group flying backwards to the water's edge. None are damage, but are more stunned. All swords are drawn including even Urahara and Isshin. Yoruichi shows slight surprise and Ichigo replies with eyeful daggers towards the now floating enemy above the pond. And there was the true danger. Ichigo knew well that she would return again and no way in hell that his little attacks would stop her. Sakkaku has appeared again but even more terrifying then before. There hovering a few feet above the pond is Sakkaku with a seemingly brand new appearance. Sakkaku's chest is now wrapped in bandages and she wears long grey pants with black shoes; her arms and belly are exposed. Two giant white wings extend from her back. Each wing holds a skull like head at the top and a single giant eye on the center. But the most notable is the now three spheres that are attached to her body; one on the forehead and the other two in the palms of her hands. Her wakizashi is floating close behind her and emitting intense rainbow energy.

"You should have come to kill me sooner." Her anger is shown in her face with much intensity. "I will not be holding back anymore."

With that said, she prepares her attack by charging energy in one of the skeleton heads; the very same attack that had caused a nuclear explosion in the Soul Society. If one were to hit in this area, Tokyo would nonetheless be destroyed. Even Ichigo lacked the power to stop said attack in his current form. He still had to do something or so he thought.

"Ha ha ha. This is what I live for." Kenpahci exclaims excitedly. As the energy of her attack soon finishes, Sakkaku fires the Fragor attack upon the group. However, Kenpachi had other plans as he already began charging Sakkaku. "Drink, Nozarashi!"

The end result showed just how much Kenpachi had advanced since gaining his shikai. The Fragor attack is ricocheted by his shikai and deflected skywards, causing the sphere to explode very high in the atmosphere. The blast of the attack sends a powerful shockwave throughout the area and destroys some of the surrounding forest. While Tokyo just barely escapes the explosion, the shockwave after generated enough force to shatter windows and knock down many power lines; many humans panic and cause city wide disturbance. Despite the attacks power, one mere Captain had stopped the destruction of so many lives. Ichigo had been the first to block the attack because he was transcended, but to see a non-transcendent being to do it gave Sakkaku a mere surprise. This could only mean that the powerful attack was not on par with the original or that Kenpachi's power surpassed her expectations. Kenpachi continues his assault towards the enemy but is quickly intervene and pushed to the ground almost instantly by the force of a punch from the winged woman. The punch is on par with the late commander's Ikkotsu technique. Kenpachi shows no fatigue or damage after the powerful punch but instead a large grin of excitement.

"Impressive to say the least but let me show you something." Sakkaku grins evilly and uses the combine power of the three illusionary Hogyokus on her body along with her blade and produce an exact copy of Kenpachi's Nozarashi. What follows next is the flying body of Kenpachi into the forest. Sakkaku used shunpo faster than Yoruichi's and attacked Kenpachi with a quick side slash. While Kenpachi is able to use the real Nozarashi to parry just in time, the destructive force of the fake sword is on par with his real one and sends him flying across the landscape. His body collides with several trees which topple to the ground soon after impact.

"One down. Who's next?"

"Grind, Pantera!" A loud voice shouts with an eruption of blue energy. Sakkaku smirks as her next target is immediately identified. In response, Sakkaku throws the illusionary Nozarashi towards the group of spiritual beings to scatter their positions. Everyone dodges with their various speed techniques and soon after the Soul Reapers release their swords save for Isshin and Urahara who moves to Ichigo's location. If the enemy could quickly take down Kenpachi, then they had to be at their best. The fake sword would also disappear after reaching a complete halt after being thrown.

"Bankai: Daiguren Hyourinmaru!"

"Howl, Zabimaru!"

"Reap, Kazeshini!"

"Dance, Sode no Shirayuki!"

Grimmjow quickly zooms in from out of nowhere and attacks with a round house kick which Sakkaku easily avoids and then makes a quick strike of her own. Grimmjow uses the armor on his elbow to parry and attacks with another series of kicks; nothing landed due to Sakkaku's fast speed. All of his attacks were avoided with ease. With nothing else in mind, Grimmjow backs off and begins charging a cero.

"You think that will work?" Sakkaku asks with a laugh; however it is short lived as she hears the voice of another individual as the pond nearby instantly freezes and the temperature in the area significantly decreasing.

"Some no mai: Tsukishiro!"

The ground Sakkaku stood on began freezing in a giant circle patter and her feet quickly becoming frozen into place. The next thing she knew was being encased with ice in a giant pillar. Grimmjow's cero does not stop charging and the Soul Reapers along with the Arrancar surround the pillar.

"What's going on Ichigo?" Urahara finally asks in a serious tone as the four look out at the frozen pillar. Realization quickly came apparent that Ichigo was not the thief, but instead the woman was. Ichigo moves his head to glance at his old teacher and friends. As Ichigo could guess, Yoruichi's face wasn't pleased in seeing him, but that conversation could be avoided till much later. Isshin remained neutral but had the same worries as everyone else.

"I'll explain in a moment. She won't be stopped by just that. Get ready." Ichigo says before disappearing himself. Nel happens to see Ichigo's escape and is angry, still believing him to be the true enemy. The thief of the Hogyoku ran off and none of the three guarding him stopped him. But no sooner, the ice had faded away with Sakkaku no longer trapped and nowhere to be found. The group looks around cautiously before hearing giggling coming from the frozen pond. Sakkaku reappears standing on the ice of the pond with a large grin.

"I never did like hypnotism, but it's always effective." She speaks. The group is nonetheless surprised by her powers. Following her reappearance, Grimmjow releases his powerfully charged cero towards her. Not only does it miss, the attack is phased out of existence. With the wave of her hand, Sakkaku caused the cero to disappear via her illusions and then erased out of reality. Following Grimmjow's attack, Hisagi and Renji swing their swords at Sakkaku. Because of their zanpakuto's exceptional long reach, both reach Sakkaku with ease, but neither connect with Sakkaku but instead collide with one another. Sakkaku once more disappeared and then reappeared unharmed in midair. "Your attacks are futile."

"Yeah, but mine aren't." Suddenly, Ichigo's black bankai that was frozen in the ice below, shot upwards to Sakkaku with telekinesis. The blade flies straight towards her head and almost collides, but Sakkaku would grab the blade itself and stop it mere inches in front of her face. After that, Ichigo reappeared, ripped the blade from her hand and then quickly slashes down her front. The attack sends her flying to the ground, but instead of making contact, Isshin was their ready with his blade above his head.

"Getsuga Tensho." He speaks as his blade is brought down and effectively cutting one of her arms off. Continuing from there, Yoruichi activated shunko and sends Sakkaku flying in another direction with a precise kick to her gut. Sakkaku would land once more among the trees. Ichigo would reappear soon after and slowly walk to the group of his friends and allies. As he does, his Hollow form produces cracks and starts shattering away like glass; revealing his human form to the group with the Hogyoku lodged into his bare chest.

"Ichigo?" Nel asked thoroughly surprised and no longer worried. She would never have guessed even considering his hidden reiatsu. Despite his powers being freed, Ichigo learned how to control them and could easily hide his presence. This is the main reason why Ichigo could not be identified. And since not many know of his Hollow essence, the shock would be quite surprising. It's been many years since Ichigo last seen Nel, but that never meant a thing for Ichigo. Any person that he has ever grown attached to become his friend and Nel was no different. Grimmjow however, was a different story. And provided that the group wasn't distracted from Ichigo's appearance, one may have commented on Isshin's own Getsuga Tensho.

"Kurosaki!" Grimmjow growled and charged at Ichigo, but before even reaching him, Ichigo disappears using sonido to avoid his attack. Ichigo and Grimmjow were never friends to begin with, but Ichigo wasn't about to start a fight with him now.

"Good to see you too Nel." Ichigo says as he walks by her and the others. He stretches momentarily before getting ready to fight again. Rukia and Renji both wanted to greet their friend but refrain from doing so. So many questions were left to be answered.

"Kurosaki Ichigo." Toshiro speaks out formally with his Bankai still active. "You do realize the position you are in. What exactly are you doing here?"

"Hah. So Ichigo is here. How about a fight?" Kenpachi also comments with a sour grin while walking back to the group with his large weapon. He had been knocked out for a little while, but nowhere near defeated. The power of Nozarashi was to be feared; illusion or not. Ichigo knew they required answers, but could not answer all of them or could not even tell where to begin. Ichigo has many questions himself that he is trying to understand, but regardless he should still give the most important answer.

"Let's put it this way." He speaks as large rainbow spiritual energy erupts from where the fallen Sakkaku laid. Ichigo looks to the spot and shrugs again. How much further can she go? "That power house of a monster is the one who took the Hogyoku and I stole it back. And she is a rouge zanpakuto spirit."

Sakkaku's energy stops and she reappears once more filled with anger and no injuries. This time, something was also slightly difference. While her arm was healed, there is a visible scar shown where the cut was. And one of the three illusionary Hogyoku's on her body is missing. Ichigo doesn't let this slide however.

'She is weakened.' Hogyoku sounds inside Ichigo curiously. Normally all her wounds could be faded from reality, but this time she kept the wound. 'It means there is a limit to how much she can use her unstoppable power. Ichigo you must find that limit.'

"Which zanpakuto?" Urahara quickly asks. Sakkaku would quickly charge and attack Ichigo with a powerful swing of her sword. The swing is intercepted by Nel, Karos, and Yinnette. The three keep her steady as Kenpachi rushes in again and swings his Nozarashi. Sakkaku pushes away from the three and parries Kenpachi's strike. From behind, Toshiro rushes in and stabs Sakkaku's mid-section.

"Ryusenka!" Upon the successful attack, Sakkaku is once more encased in ice. And to Toshiro's dismay, the attack disappears along with Sakkaku who retreats back to the center of the pond.

"No more discussions." Nel says seriously while looking to Ichigo. She was almost ecstatic to see him again now that she was an adult. Ichigo had always interested her in more ways than one, but she never got the true opportunity to speak to him outside a mission or battle. Maybe she would have an opportunity quite soon. "I believe it's obvious who the true enemy is here."

Everyone silently agreed and focused their attention to the enemy at the center of the pond. And it was about high time that other released their weapons. Karos started first by absorbing Yinnette into his being.

"Kick about, Los Lobos!"

"Awaken, Benehime!"

And with that, it is the last of the remaining releases. Nel is 'technically' still recovering and refuses to release while Isshin rather not put too much strain on his body despite the power that came with his sword.

"It is too bad. I've seen enough and going to take all of you out now." Sakkaku speaks as a new sword appears in her hand. The blade itself is immediately causes a raging inferno and much power. Following the new illusion, giant towers of fire erupt all around the forest. "Ennetsu Jigoku."

"It can't be!" Toshiro could all but yell out; the very same technique that was used by the late commander now being used against everyone. Such power was on par with that of the Royal Guard and yet he remained as one of the strongest Soul Reapers to ever live. The raging inferno would soon move towards the center of the forest where the group is located. They hadn't much time.

"Stop Sakkaku. I'll slow this down." The silent Karos spoke then traveled quickly up high in the sky. Taking both guns and pointing them at the many fires around. "Cero Metralleta."

The combination of the several thousand cero's fired at each raging pillar did indeed slow the inferno's advances, but not enough to extinguish it. There wasn't much time left, Sakkaku had to be stopped. Hisagi and Renji charge in with their respective weapons and attack in combination, but with little successive. The power of the illusionary Ryujin Jakka proved too strong.

'Hogyoku! How much more time do you need!' Ichigo all but screamed internally. Ichigo only need just a little bit more time before his true plan could come into action. A skill that is far dangerous but the only thing that could potentially finish her for good. The sphere however doesn't answer. Ichigo feels the tingling pressure in his chest but cannot decide whether or not the sensation to be good or bad.

"Shibari, Benehime!" Urahara suddenly shouts from above Sakkaku and ensnares her in the spiritual web. But unlike Aizen, she cuts through it with both the fake Ryujin Jakka and her own blade. Grimmjow comes in with his own strike only to be side stepped and then heavily torched. His burned body is then thrown aside left to die. Kenpachi goes next along with an angered Nel and give successful consecutives strikes as well, but even their fate is determined as both were stuck down by powerful swings. One by one, Sakkaku proceeded to strike down the remaining group but left Ichigo as the last one standing on purpose. Each member put up a good fight and caused more damages to Sakkaku's body. Each injury would be healed but left scars across her skin. At this point, another illusionary Hogyoku disappears leaving just one left on her body. It was always about him however, and his abilities as a transcendent. The final stage was set. 'Please Ichigo. Show me.' Sakkaku thinks desperately. This entire fight was to prove his worth and yet Ichigo did not make any extremely powerful moves or abilities like he is capable of. Despite all the damage, the sad truth was merely just a test. Sakkaku needed Ichigo as a partner and he failed every test she put against him. Her existence is slowly running out of time as well now that only one illusion truly remained.

"All your friends are defeated now. And the inferno still approaches. What will you do?" Sakkaku asks while giving another angry stare. Even her true emotions were illusions at this point. She was angry earlier in the fight, but that anger soon turned into depression as the truth of Ichigo came to light. He just couldn't be her partner. But now, Ichigo's plan was finally ready; the very powerful and dangerous plan that Ichigo proposed to Hogyoku right when his friends appeared.

"I will do what I have to." Suddenly, the Hogyoku glowed brightly and enormous spike in Ichigo's spiritual pressure caused a disturbance in Sakkaku's illusions and dissipated the inferno along with the fake Ryujin Jakka. All damages that were caused by Sakkaku's illusions were instantly destroyed; including the harm done by Ichigo's friends. One by one both Soul Reaper and Arrancar alike arose with no harm to their forms just like Ichigo had hours before. Ichigo had just received a major upgrade that didn't go unnoticed. Isshin is the first to notice and quickly fears the sudden form that Ichigo now took.

"Ichigo…you?" Isshin murmurs which everyone else soon notices after inspecting all of their missing injuries. Ichigo's entire right arm is covered in an ever changing multi-colored armor. His black Bankai once again infused with his right arm via glove, but the armor belonged to a different spirit; the Hogyoku. Sakkaku's interest now peaks. 'Yes that's it!'

"What the hell did you do?!" Sakkaku screams at him while trying very hard to suppress her newly found happiness. This was the moment she was waiting for. Ichigo's true strength. The very same strength that awakened her and she was about to find out just what it was. With no other words, Ichigo ascends high into the sky with Sakkaku following after him. After a measurable distance in the atmosphere, Ichigo stops. Sakkaku soon appears after and retakes her sword in hand. This was the final fight. She charges in at Ichigo with blinding speed and strikes Ichigo with a clean hit. Ichigo does not move from his spot and no injury was caused. He simply stood silently with piercing brown eyes that would look deep into the spirit's soul. The chilling confidence scares Sakkaku and she backs off quickly. This was the same fear that Aizen experiences when he fought against Ichigo in the Soul Society. Ichigo had become the transcended that she was looking for in him. The only explanation she could come up with is that he couldn't access it. Her thoughts would be interrupted when Ichigo decides to make a move and slice the air in front of him to send a razor like shockwave towards her. Sakkaku just barely dodges but has many cuts up and down her form.

"So you never did lose it. You're lucky I'm patient." Sakkaku speaks out cockily with her normal attitude. She started to act like her normal self after all this time. She was happy to know his strength was back, but something was still amiss. The glowing armor on his right arm truly showed power, but the energy emitting off of it seemed strange. The energy didn't belong to Ichigo obviously, but it also resonated with Ichigo's as if a form of merger. "I'm curious about your right arm. Its slightly different, but still holds the same intensity like last time."

"So my suspicions were correct." Ichigo responds finally. "You are Kyoka Suigetsu."

Sakkaku laughs and shakes her head; agreeing to Ichigo's statement. Ichigo was able to figure her out like an open book, an ability that comes with plenty of experience. "In a sense, but as I said before. My true name is Sakkaku. Kyoka Suigetsu was a part of me. The zanpakuto no longer exists as now I awakened. So now tell me what exactly that form is. It's the very same form you used to summon that black spiritual energy."

Ichigo stays silent for a moment as he feels pressure beginning to build in his form. It was now or never. As long as she stayed stationary, Ichigo could trap her. This ability was without a doubt a nasty one, but is necessary for him to win. "It's the ultimate form any spiritual being can take."

"Oh?"

"But sorry to say. You won't be around too much longer to hear how the technique works." Ichigo places his blade in front of him but touches the blade with his free exposed left hand. His position is that of a defensive stance rather an attacking stance. Ichigo would then surprise Sakkaku as he lets out a long breath.

"Tsuki no Katachi…(Moon Form.)" Ichigo then suddenly release all the stored energy. His form drastically changes to that of a similar way when he fought Aizen. The only difference between the former form and the now current form is the coloring; the spiritual energy is pure white. "…Mangetsu (Full Moon)."

Sakkaku's face lights up instantly as she now has a strong sense of déjà vu. Not only has she seen Aizen's memories, but was now experience it for herself. But with the sudden change in color is what truly worried her. Ichigo used what he called the Final Getsuga Tensho, but this new form showed a completely different aura. "What the hell?"

Ichigo proceeds by raising his hand and gathering a ball shape of spiritual energy in his right hand. Sakkaku, very much like Aizen, is too astounded by the transformation and power that she couldn't even move. Her defeat is about to happen and the vague feeling of nothing could be done fills her being. She wanted to see what she thought is his full strength, and she received it; the very transcended power that sleeps with in a single young adult human. And with the next words, Ichigo uses the ultimate defensive technique.

"Gekko Shoheki (Moonlight barrier.)"

The technique explodes in his hand and is propelled outward creating a giant white sphere in the sky. The technique's resembles that of a full moon. Despite being day time, even those on the ground could see the powerful sphere. The technique seals the two inside and glows brightly with each passing glance.

"Before I leave." Ichigo began as he turns his back to Sakkaku. "Let me tell you something." The two share a brief conversation where Ichigo discovers the remaining answers that plagued his thoughts. The conversation is short, but both Sakkaku and Ichigo reconcile and both rather appreciative of the other. Afterwards, Ichigo leaves his technique and reappears on the ground just in front of the now unfrozen pond. His form is slowly dissipating with the bandages falling off and his power slowly diminishing. He turns to the group and grins slightly at their shocked faces.

"Ichigo what have you done?" Isshin suddenly spoke up with much worry. "Wasn't once enough?"

Ichigo grins further as blood soon bleeds from his nose and mouth. The group does not move any closer with still much shock on their faces. Rukia, Renji, and Yoruichi being the most worried next to Isshin. Nobody has ever seen such powerful techniques to truly know what was going on. Nobody of the group wanted to move in fear of harming Ichigo any further.

"What's going on?" Yoruichi asks up quickly as she sees the light in Ichigo's eyes slowly faltering. With a small frown, Ichigo's powers completely disappear and the Hogyoku missing from his being. Ichigo manages to look at his right hand to notice his sword also gone. It was a given, but silently he hoped that maybe it would have survived.

"I'm going to need a new wood katana for kendo club." Ichigo smirks and collapses to the ground. Isshin is the first to Ichigo's side with the remaining group soon after. Ichigo would survive, but Isshin feared for his son's human life as he performed the technique in his human body. The damaged strained the body so much that blood even began coming out of the pores in his skin.

"We need to get him back right now." Isshin yelled. Soon after, the giant sphere in the sky dissipates and a single object fell from it; Sakkaku's non-glowing wakizashi. After landing to the ground, the blade shatters to millions of pieces.

"Isshin what was that?" Yoruichi asks again. Isshin doesn't respond as he picks his son up off the ground. He looks to her with dead eyes for a brief moment and then begins walking away swiftly. Ichigo is in critical condition and needed treatment as soon as possible.

Without turning to the group of highly worried and curious people, Isshin utters a single sentence before flashing away. "That was one of the Eight Sacrificial Moon Techniques invented by the Shiba Clan."