AN: Hey everyone, back with another Chapter. The climax of the Soul Society Arc has arrived. Thanks everyone for reading and reviewing!
Anyways, as always, thanks for your continued support!
Vocabulary Terms:
*Baka (Bakamono) = Fool/Idiot
*Onii-sama = Big Brother
*Obasan = Aunt
*Chappy = Most popular soul candy with a cutesy personality and depicted as a bunny.
*Ryoka = Traveling Evil(s)/ outsiders not associated with the Seireitei
*Senzaikyu = Palace of Penitence/Repentance Palace
*Sekkiseki = Spirit reducing stone, a special mineral with properties that allows it to repel all reiryoku.
*Shakonmaku = Soul-Warding Membrane. A large spherical barrier surrounding the Seireitei that vaporizes any reishi that tries to pass through the barrier.
*Sokyoku = Twinned Punishment. A giant halberd currently sealed on the Sokyoku Hill and used to execute nefarious criminals of the Soul Society.
*Seijotokyorin = Tranquil Forest of Residential Towers. The living quarters of the Central 46 members that is completely forbidden to all except the members of the Central 46.
*Daireishokairo = Great Spirit Book Gallery. A repository of all the knowledge and history of the Soul Society with restricted access to very few. Even many Captains are unaware of its inner workings.
Reading the story:
-Scene change: "888"
-Rated M Scene: "XXX"
-Hello, how are you? (Someone in their own thoughts)
-Hello how are you? (Zanpakuto Spirit speaking in a Shinigami's mind)
-"Hello, how are you doing?"(Hollow Ichigo taking over Ichigo's body and speaking)
DISCLAIMER: I do not own Bleach.
Chapter 33
Darkness.
Silence.
Gin and Tosen stood off to the side in the far distance of the Sejotokyorin with different inward feelings. Tosen felt that the fight was over as he stared at the giant black coffin that stood in the space where Kishin was enveloped. Gin on the other hand felt somewhat conflicted. He didn't actually dislike Kishin, however he also didn't know what to think of him. What he did know was that the power that Aizen displayed was exactly as he had expected. Mighty and powerful and confident, but the power he witnessed Kishin display was shocking and amazing to say the very least. He knew Kishin had grown in power, but he never imagined that he could grow so much in power that he could react to Aizen's speed, compete with his Zanjutsu, and match his Kido. Even now as the giant black coffin stood like an unshakeable mighty pillar in the giant hall he felt that there was a chance that Kishin still hadn't died.
Since Gin felt this way then there was nothing to say of how Aizen was feeling. He also didn't think that Kishin had died just yet. In fact he didn't miss the fact that Kishin was chanting his own spell to counter his level 90 Hado attack. Unsure of what the result was he elected to remain still and simply watch the next events unfold.
How unexpected...to think that he has even mastered Kido in the 90's...now then...The question is whether his spell was strong enough to save him from my full incantation Kurohitsugi.
As if on cue the giant black coffin slowly began to dissipate revealing the contents within. There stood a large twelve-sided golden barrier with thousands and thousands of cracks all over its surface, however in the end it managed to maintain its form safely protecting Kishin inside. Kishin was also free of the six rods that bound him from Aizen's earlier binding spell. He huffed and panted as he had struggled to keep his barrier from breaking apart against the torrent of Aizen's incredibly powerful Kido spell.
Clink.
Clank.
Cling!
KLANK!
Having served its purpose the golden barrier began to shatter into thousands of small pieces making a loud sound like fine china being smashed into dust. Aizen narrowed his eyes in amusement, his lips curled up into a slight smile. "To withstand my Kido. I applaud you, Chigetsu Kishin. I find now that killing you may be a waste."
Kishin took a quick second to catch his breath before refocusing his attention on Aizen. "Huff...is that so? You say that as if you've already won."
Aizen let out a light chuckle. "I've just thought of something interesting. Why not join me instead? Chigetsu-kun. It's rather much more worth your while to join me than to remain a member of the Gotei 13. No, with your criminal record you are currently labeled as a traitor. You are no longer even considered a member of the Gotei 13 so why not simply start over in a new place with a clean slate? I assure you that the conditions are much better on my side."
Kishin raised his eyebrow questioningly at Aizen's offer. "Join you? Well, that is an interesting suggestion, but no thanks. If you came to me with that proposal 40 years ago then I might have actually considered it."
Aizen was inwardly intrigued as he hadn't expected Kishin to actually voice that he may have joined him at one point and time. "You say 40 years ago...what has changed since then?"
"Hmmmm…" Kishin pondered a bit before responding, "I found important people to me. I won't abandon them."
Aizen closed his eyes and sighed. "I see. Then how about this. Join me and those people whom you hold dear will remain completely untouched. I will see to it that they do not meet misfortune."
Kishin let out a sigh of his own before shaking his head. "That's a nice offer, but they are their own person. After what you've done? They'll join the efforts of Soul Society to hunt you down and kill you. In that respect I'll be dragged in as well. In the end we were set to be on opposite sides."
"My oh my. I'm disappointed, Chigetsu-kun. You have the potential to become so much more yet you tether yourself to needlessly worldly things. Friends? Family? Love? You've placed too many limiters on yourself. Without them you and I could remake the world in our image. Stand above as the world's guardians. As its leaders. As its gods."
"Remake the world? To lead? Gods? So this is what you were talking about before? You wish to rule the entire world?"
Aizen grinned at Kishin's contemptuous reaction. "Don't be so quick to judge, Chigetsu-kun. When you discover the truth of the world then I reckon that you too will come to the same conclusion that I have."
Kishin furrowed his brow. "You keep repeating things about the world. Why not just tell me yourself if you have all the answers."
Aizen merely shook his head. "The truth of the world is something that you will only believe when you discover it yourself. I can tell you, but how much of it would you believe? After all, with the passing of time the stories and information passed down through each successive generation has taken and hidden away the core of the ugly truth of the Soul Society and of how the world came to be. How much of my words would you be willing to accept as reality."
"The ugly truth of the Soul Society? You make it sound like what you're doing is some sort of act of salvation for the Soul Society."
"Oh? I can't say that you are correct, however it isn't quite wrong either."
"Your word games are getting too wordy."
"Heh. Very well. Then allow me to give you some direction. Should you survive, I advise you to search the hidden archives of the Tsunayashiro Great Noble Clan. Perhaps you'll find something...interesting."
"Tsunayashiro Clan? What the...exactly what's going o-Tch!"
TING!
Aizen cut Kishin's sentence short as he dashed forward and slashed with his Zanpakuto forcing Kishin to defend with his own.
"Bastard, I didn't take you for one to interrupt when someone is talking."
Aizen smirked and slashed several times aiming for Kishin's neck, chest, leg, and arm. Kishin took a quick step back just far enough to avoid the slash to his neck before he raised his Zanpakuto to defend against the slash to his chest. He then swung his Zanpakuto downwards to block the slash at his leg before raising up his katana to block the attack to his arm.
ERRRRK!
A high pitched noise of their metal blades scratching against one another pierced and echoed in the giant hall.
"I have already told you all that you need to know about this matter, Chigetsu-kun. There is no longer a need to speak on the subject. I look forward to what the future holds when you come to learn the truth."
Kishin grunted and pushed off against Aizen's blade before swinging down towards Aizen's head.
Cling!
Aizen quickly parried the strike before thrusting out his blade in a piercing stab. Kishin moved slightly to his right and spun in a quick motion whilst swinging his sword in a wide sweeping arc letting the momentum build up in his slashing strike.
CLANG!
Aizen raised his Zanpakuto to the left side of his body, easily defending against the attack.
WHOOSH!
A burst of wind erupted from the contact point of their blades due to the force behind Kishin's strike. Aizen's hair and Haori fluttered in the wind, however he didn't budge an inch from his spot. He smirked and tightened his grip on his Zanpakuto before applying incredible strength in his arm and slashed against Kishin's blade.
FWOOSH!
The force of the strike from Aizen's attack sent Kishin skidding across the room on his feet. Smoke rose out from the side of Kishin's feet as he had applied incredible pressure to his legs to hold his form onto the ground so as not to be sent flying off from Aizen's attack. After skidding across the giant room for several dozens of meters he finally stopped and glared at Aizen.
Aizen merely grinned and took up a relaxed stance as he commented, "Come now Chigetsu-kun. You don't truly believe that you can defeat me with only your Shikai now do you? To not even utilize your Hollowfication against me is quite insulting. Furthermore, with your level of skill then surely you've acquired your Bankai by now. Is there a reason why you're holding back? Perhaps you wish to stall for time? A fruitless endeavor. I assure you that no matter how much time you plan to stall for it is simply meaningless. I have already won."
Kishin furrowed his brow. "You've already won huh? What makes you say that?"
"Hehehe, like I said before our fight. I shall explain in due time. Since it appears that you are still capable of fighting then you should utilize your trump cards now. Your Shikai alone is meaningless against me. I am already aware of its abilities. It's true that the powers of your Zanpakuto are deadly, however they have one very obvious weakness. You must be able to cut your target for your abilities to be effective. Unfortunately my skills in Zanjutsu are greater than yours. I'm sure you've discovered this fact already."
Kishin gritted his teeth cursing Aizen in his head.
Tch. I hate to admit it but the bastard's got a point. My skill in Zanjutsu is pretty damn good...but I'm still lacking compared to him. And his physical strength...he's been holding back against me. No choice.
Kishin let out a soft sigh before straightening his posture. "Well, I can't argue with your logic there. You've got a point, Aizen." He slightly lifted his Zanpakuto to his side and said nonchalantly, "Ban...kai…"
FWISH!
A fierce and violent wind erupted around Kishin as his murderous cold reiatsu rolled off of his body. Aizen narrowed his eyes greatly intrigued as he stared at the transformation taking place. A red crescent moon appeared on the center of Kishin's forehead whilst red lotus flower tattoos appeared on the back of Kishin's hands, the top of his feet, and the middle of back.
Clang! Clink! Clank!
The jangling sound of black shackles with short broken black chains resonated in the giant hall as they appeared clasped around Kishin's neck, his wrists, and his ankles. The blade of his Shikai remained unchanged as it still appeared completely black in color as a double edged bladed katana with red blood stain marks on the bottom half of the sword. The guard remained black in color with tints of crimson red. Its shape retained the look of four crescent moons whilst the hilt of the blade was still black with five red lotus flower patterns engraved on both sides of the handle, however there was one distinct difference that Kishin's Zanpakuto had that it didn't have in its Shikai form. And that was the ominous red blood mist that continuously diffused out from the razor sharp blade. The peculiar thing about the bloody mist was that it never strayed more than 5 meters around the sword.
"Akai Shi No Zencho." Kishin said with a dark confident sounding voice that resonated throughout the giant hall.
Aizen narrowed his eyes in caution, feeling an ominous and bloodthirsty presence roll off from Kishin's body. "Oh? Akai Shi No Zencho is it? So this is your Bankai. Its appearance is quite...interesting…"
"Heh. Getting cold feet? Too late!"
FWISH!
Kishin arrived before Aizen and swung down with his blade only to miss as Aizen cautiously avoided being hit. Just as Aizen landed on the ground in the distance Kishin swung his blade in that direction and shouted, "Chi Nagare Kawa!"
FWOOM!
A giant river of pure blood 100 meters long, 10 meters wide, and 20 meters deep flowed out from Kishin's blade washing everything in its path into blood. Aizen widened his eyes in both shock and curiosity as he instantly made the decision to Shunpo far away to his left ensuring that he wasn't engulfed in Kishin's technique. A mere instant later and the entire river of the violent flowing blood completely dissipated into a giant cloud of bloody mist before disappearing completely, however left in its wake was a 100 meter long 10 meter wide and 20 meter deep cavity as if everything that was in the path of the river was washed away.
Aizen furrowed his brow and curiously stared at Kishin. "An intriguing ability...and quite devastating. Your Bankai has the power to generate a river of blood that can destroy all things in its path be it physical matter or reishi by assimilating it into blood. And if my guess is correct then I assume that it has some other ability that has to do with the blood mist flowing forth from your Zanpakuto."
Kishin mentally cursed and praised Aizen for his intuition and intellect.
What a guy...to not only discern a portion of the ability of my Zanpakuto but to also correctly guess that there's a connection with the blood mist around my sword and that of my attack. And all that from observing only one strike.
Aizen smirked and commented, "You've elected to show me your Bankai, surely you don't plan to back down now? I must admit that the power of your Bankai is fearsome and I reckon that there are even more secrets that it possesses, however even still, to not utilize your full power after all this time? You'll only end up dead, Chigetsu-kun."
Kishin furrowed his brow feeling somewhat uneasy at Aizen's words.
Why is he taunting me like this? I thought he'd want to stall for more time and discern more of my Bankai's abilities but...is he in a rush to reach Hinamori? Perhaps he's not as confident as he lets on?
Kishin was snapped out of his thoughts as he ducked and dodged a slash from Aizen's Zanpakuto. He then countered and swung his own Zanpakuto aiming right for Aizen whilst also shouting, "Saku!"
SHING!
A bloody crimson blade flew out from his sword forcing Aizen to dash into the air to avoid being hit. "So the abilities of your Shikai can still be utilized in your Bankai? I see. I suppose I should have expected it as your Zanpakuto didn't quite change its appearance."
Just as the crimson blade missed its mark it sharply turned and changed directions flying at Aizen once more. Aizen narrowed his eyes and swung down with his blade while shouting, "Zangerin!"
Kishin stared indifferently and slashed at the air in Aizen's direction whilst he was busy defending against Kishin's Saku technique.
"Chi Nagare Kawa!"
FWOOM!
Once more a giant bloody river roared through the air causing Aizen to frown and shout, "Hado #89: Hyoga Seiran!"
FWOOSH!
A large icy wave flowed out from Aizen's hand and smashed right into the giant bloody river of Kishin's attack, however the icy Kido spell stood no chance and was immediately disintegrated becoming part of the bloody attack. Aizen did however manage to buy himself just enough time to find his footing and dash off to the side to avoid being engulfed in the ominous red river.
Poof!
Once more the bloody attack turned into a mist of blood as Kishin slashed out with his sword and shouted, "Saku!"
SHING!
Another bloody blade flew out towards Aizen causing him to narrow his eyes and blur away with Shunpo. This time he arrived behind Kishin and slashed down with his sword aiming for Kishin's shoulder, however Kishin raised his left hand and utilized the shackle around his wrist to block.
CLANG!
Aizen's eyelid momentarily twitched as he mentally commended Kishin's bravery in blocking his sword strike with the metal cuff around his hand. Just then Kishin turned his body to the side to slash at Aizen's rib cage whilst the red crescent blade that he slashed out earlier changed directions and arrived in front of Aizen. Aizen narrowed his eyes and let the crescent blade crash into his Zanpakuto while purposefully lifting his feet off of the ground. He took advantage of the force behind Kishin's Saku ability and let it push him off into the distance allowing him to both defend against the crescent blade and avoid Kishin's sword strike at his ribs. Once Aizen had reached a far enough distance he swung his blade to the side and caused the bloody blade of Kishin's Saku ability to fly off crashing into the side of one of the nearby towers.
BOOM!
Kishin clicked his tongue in annoyance at how well Aizen continued to fend off his attacks, however he also couldn't help but continue to mentally praise how powerful and skillful Aizen was.
Tch. He's definitely showing off his experience. How he reacts in battle is incredible, but I just need to land one good hit on him and I'll gain the advantage. Best way to do that is to catch him off guard.
Aizen remained unperturbed as he stared at Kishin with expectant eyes. "Your skills alone as a Shinigami are quite fearsome, Chigetsu-kun. Since you will not join me then I suppose I should dispose of you. There is only one Shinigami amongst the Gotei 13 that, while little, poses a potential threat to my plan. That is Yamamoto Genryusai himself for his sheer fighting prowess, however I now see that you have a potential to reach the Head Captain's level in the future. Perhaps I should pluck the bud before it blooms."
Kishin scoffed and shouted, "Hirameku!" As a blinding light flashed in the room, Aizen grinned and mused aloud, "Using the same trick as me? Naive."
SCHLICK!
Aizen turned behind him just in time and slashed Kishin's arm clean off with a complacent smirk on his face, however he widened his eyes a mere second later as the Kishin he slashed dissipated into nothing but a piece of a ripped shihakusho sleeve. Kishin's emotionless voice then echoed in Aizen's ears from behind as Kishin slashed out with his sword, "Onmitsu Shiho #3: Utsusemi."
"KUH?!" Aizen exclaimed in a momentary state of shock. As quickly as he could he dashed off to the side and shouted, "Buki Henkan!"
TING!
A purple colored blade made of Kido quickly appeared by Aizen's side as he attempted to block Kishin's sword strike, however the moment Kishin's Zanpakuto came into contact with Aizen's Kido blade his Hollow mask immediately appeared on his face instantly boosting the power of not only his reiatsu, but all of his physical abilities as well.
CLANK!
SWISH!
The Kido blade in Aizen's hand shattered without resistance as Kishin's Zanpakuto slashed across Aizen's chest leaving a gaping wound on his body.
"GUH?!" Aizen groaned out as his feet slid across the giant room several tens of meters away with blood dripping down from his gash. Kishin smirked and stared at the trail of blood that was left on the ground from Aizen skidding across the giant hall.
"It's over, Aizen."
Aizen frowned as he held his hand over the gaping wound on his chest. Blood seeped out between his fingers unable to stop the bleeding.
"It's over you say..." He lowly growled in dismay, however his frown soon curled up into a complacent smirk. "Heh. It is indeed."
"Tch. Still acting tou-UH?!" Before Kishin could finish his sentence he widened his eyes in shock and felt a burning pain on his left arm.
PSH!
Not a moment later blood came spewing out of his arm as a large gaping wound ran down from the tip of his shoulder all the way down to the black shackle around his wrist. Kishin stared confusedly at Aizen in the distance, however once more he widened his eyes in shock as the Aizen he was staring at dissipated into nothing but a mere illusion.
"N-No...there's no way that I was affected by Kyoka Suigetsu…" He then took note of Aizen standing several meters away unharmed, albeit there was a long rip in his Haori and shihakusho that ran across his chest. "Aizen! What did you do?"
Aizen smirked complacently and lightly grazed his fingers over the torn portion of his clothes. "My my, that was indeed quite close. I commend you for your efforts, Chigetsu-kun. You almost managed to injure me. If I'm correct in assuming that your Zanpakuto can still utilize all of its Shikai techniques whilst in Bankai then I would have been in a bit of a bind had your attack actually connected just now."
Kishin grit his teeth as he wracked his brain for an explanation, however no matter how he thought about it he couldn't understand when Aizen had placed him under his complete hypnosis. As if Aizen understood where Kishin's frustrated look was coming from he decided to give an explanation. "I see that you are confused. Indeed you are not wrong. During the entire fight I did not show you the release of my Kyoka Suigetsu. In fact you already confirmed that my Kyoka Suigetsu was already released, therefore I could not perform the ritual on you unless I undid the release."
Kishin frowned not liking where this was going. "Then what did you do to me…"
"Heh. You know about my Kyoka Suigetsu's power already don't you? Just seeing its release once will cause one to fall under its spell every time it is released thereafter. Has it ever occurred to you why? Exactly how does Kyoka Suigetsu hypnotize you?"
Kishin gripped his hands tighter on his Zanpakuto as he tried to think about what Aizen was saying. It was then a look of realization flashed in his eyes. "The soul…" He lowly growled out.
Aizen smirked and slowly clapped his hands. "How very astute. Indeed. Kyoka Suigetsu hypnotizes the very soul itself. That is why one only needs to see its release once to be affected every time thereafter. Do you understand now? Chigetsu Kishin." Aizen pointed to the Hollow mask on Kishin's face and said relaxedly, "From the look in your eyes it seems you've already guessed it. Correct. The unique Hollow you fought that granted you the power of Hollowfication was also under the influence of my Kyoka Suigetsu. Your soul assimilated the Hollow's soul, however it is not the dominant soul within you. Your Shinigami soul is the base and your Hollow soul is but a branch of your true powers. I cannot affect you with my Kyoka Suigetsu normally, however when you don your Hollow mask that is when you let your Hollowfied soul dominate the majority of the space within you."
Kishin clenched his hands into fists now understanding what happened and immediately removed his Hollow mask. "In other words...should I utilize my Hollowfication against you I'll be affected by your Kyoka Suigetsu, however since the source of that power didn't originate from within me then as long as I fight you as a Shinigami I'll remain unaffected."
Clap. Clap. Clap.
Aizen nodded in approval. "Indeed. You understand well, Chigetsu-kun."
Kishin narrowed his eyes and commented, "No wonder you taunted me to utilize my Hollowfication earlier. Your Kyoka Suigetsu was already released in the surrounding area so the moment I don the mask I'd be under your control."
Aizen was about to respond, however he narrowed his eyes in curiosity as he noticed that the blood that flowed out and around Kishin's wound was simply being absorbed into the blood mist around Kishin's Zanpakuto and cycled back into him. "Interesting…"
Kishin brandished his sword in hand and focused his attention on Aizen. "Tch. Well it's nice to know that my Hollowfication doesn't work on you. That just means I'll have to kill you without it."
Aizen smirked and shook his head. "It's too late. It appears you've lost your chance."
"What are you tal-hm?" He paused and turned to look at the entrance of the Seijotokyorin taking note of two new individuals in the room. "Captain Unohana? Lieutenant Kotetsu?" Kishin curiously called aloud.
Aizen lowered his sword by his side and slowly walked over towards the two newcomers and greeted, "Welcome. Captain Unohana. I thought that it might be time for you to show up by now."
Unohana took a moment to glance at the surrounding area and quickly analyzed and guessed what occurred before turning back to face Aizen. "Captain Aizen...no. That's not quite right. I suppose it would be Aizen Sosuke, the traitor."
Aizen smirked and paused in his step whilst Gin and Tosen came out from their hiding spot to stand behind him. "Hm. Did you immediately guess that I'd be here?"
Unohana closed her eyes deep in thought for a moment before she responded, "The corpse doll that you created was quite convincing. The Seijotokyorin is strictly forbidden to all no matter the status or reason a person has for visiting. It is the only place in all of the Seireitei that you could hide and escape detection." She then turned to glance at Kishin and continued, "Furthermore, I found it strange that Lieutenant Chigetsu was the one who was blamed for your death. While it may have been short, he did serve under me in the 4th division at one point and time. As I had personally trained him I had gotten to know his character quite well. Even then he seemed to have his misgivings about you. I followed his reiatsu signature here to find quite an astonishing sight."
She then closed her eyes recalling a conversation she had with Kishin a long time ago when he still served under the 4th division.
Flash Back
"Since you're planning to later transfer out of the 2nd division into the 12th I reckon the 12th isn't your last stop either is it? You're skilled in Hoho, Hakuda, Zanjutsu, and Kido. Are you planning to join the 5th division then? I hear that under Captain Aizen they are a division that are quite well versed in all four combat forms."
Kishin gave a thoughtful look and shook his head. "I haven't considered it."
"Oh? You haven't? You seem to be quite meticulous about the divisions you choose so I thought you might end up there."
"Ahhh...well don't tell anyone this but Captain Aizen just seems too nice."
Unohana's eyelid slightly twitched from his words. She too had always had a feeling deep down that something was off about Aizen, however she could never pinpoint what it was. No matter how many times she secretly observed him she never found anything wrong, but her instincts told her that there may be more to Aizen than meets the eye. To hear Kishin voice his own misgivings about Aizen made her curious.
"You say he's too nice huh? If that's the case is there something wrong with being too nice? Ukitake was the one who discovered you correct? I would also rate him as a very nice person wouldn't you?"
"Ah, Captain Ukitake. That's true. The Captain can be very very nice, however his nice is different. Captain Ukitake's nice is warm and playful. Captain Aizen's nice is...it just seems nice, but I don't know if I feel any real substance from him."
End Flashback
When she reopened her eyes she nodded to him and said, "It appears that you've known about Aizen all this time, haven't you? Chigetsu-kun. I apologize that I was unable to be of any help in clearing your name when you were accused as a traitor. Although I must say...you did quite a number on Captain Komamura."
Kishin lowered his Zanpakuto and deactivated his Bankai knowing that the fight between him and Aizen was over. With Unohana and Isane present along with Kyoka Suigetsu still in effect, continuing to fight would only be disadvantageous for him. He let out a light sigh and responded to Unohana, "Knowing or not knowing, it made no difference. He already placed the entirety of the Gotei 13 under his hypnosis. All it takes is seeing the release of his Zanpakuto once for it to take effect. Besides, I have no qualms about being labeled a traitor as long as Rukia is safe. As for Captain Komamura, he attacked me first."
"Hypnosis?" Unohana inquired warily.
Aizen smirked in amusement and joined back in the conversation, "Chigetsu-kun, if your only true concern is that of Kuchiki Rukia's safety then you should truly consider joining my side. As for you, Captain Unohana. Your guess was quite close. Your insight and intuition is good, however you made one crucial mistake. What you analyzed was not a corpse doll."
"UH?!" Unohana and Isane widened their eyes in shock as they stared at the identical corpse doll held in Aizen's hand.
"W-When?!" Isane questioned, completely bewildered.
Aizen narrowed his eyes with a complacent smile. "When? I've been holding it this entire time. It's just that I did not let you see it until just now." He then glanced over to Kishin and commented, "Then again only you remain unfooled by this little trick."
Unohana furrowed her brow and questioned, "What is this?"
"Heh. You'll soon understand. I'll release it now. Kudakero, Kyoka Suigetsu."
Clank!
The sound of a mirror shattering echoed in the large room as the corpse doll in Aizen's hand transformed into his Zanpakuto. It was a regular looking katana with a green hilt and elongated hexagonal shaped guard. Isane and Unohana instantly widened their eyes in shock, however Unohana quickly recovered from her startlement as Aizen continued his explanation, "This is my Zanpakuto. Kyoka Suigetsu. Its ability is perfect hypnosis."
Unohana furrowed her brow and quickly came to an understanding after putting together the bits and pieces of information that both Aizen and Kishin had told her. "I see. So that's how it is. Seeing the release of your Shikai is the ritual for placing others under your perfect hypnosis. Indeed...I was one of the Captains present during your Captaincy test. That means that Ukitake, Kyoraku, and the Captain Commander are also under your spell since they were also present at that time. Then you found some other time or opening to show the release of your Zanpakuto to the other Captains and Lieutenants."
Aizen grinned and sheathed his katana back by his waist. "Correct. Perfect hypnosis controls all five senses. It can control every facet and dimension of a target including mass, weight, touch, sight, smell, hearing, form, shape, and more to replicate that of the enemy. In other words, it can make a fly appear to be a dragon or turn a marsh into a flower bed. And all I need to do to activate it is to simply show the release of my Kyoka Suigetsu to the enemy. Whoever lays eyes on it even once will be hypnotized into doing my bidding."
Unohana slightly frowned as she then questioned, "Then your Bankai...after showing the release of your Kyoka Suigetsu during your Captaincy exam you utilized your hypnosis to fabricate a false Bankai to us didn't you?"
"Heh. Correct again, however...do not be mistaken. Just because I elected not to reveal my true Bankai does not mean that I do not have one. You should take solace in having that knowledge, Captain Unohana."
Kishin didn't miss out on hearing that part and furrowed his brow in caution.
If his Shikai is perfect hypnosis...just what in the world is his Bankai? In general a Bankai grants a strength multiplier of at least 5 to 10 times greater than the Shikai. Just what could be 5 to 10 times greater than perfect hypnosis…?
For a good long minute nobody made a single move. Aizen finally closed his eyes and took a step forward before Gin and Tosen both pulled out some long white cloths causing it to encircle them and Kishin.
"What the?! Sentan Hakuja?" Kishin let out confusedly wondering why he was being taken with them.
Aizen just smirked and said reassuringly, "No need to panic, Chigetsu Kishin. You wish to know the truth do you not? I shall simply explain on a different stage." He then turned his attention back to Unohana. "This is farewell, Captain Unohana. I don't foresee us meeting again."
FWISH!
A burst of wind erupted in the giant room before Aizen, Tosen, Gin, and Kishin disappeared from their spots.
"C-Captain Unohana. What should we do?" Isane worriedly questioned.
"Haaah...Isane. Prepare the Tenteikura and relay what we have discovered to the other Captains and Lieutenants. Include the Ryoka as well."
"Yes!"
888
FWISH!
As the swirling white cloth began to dissipate Kishin took note that he was now back atop of the Sokyoku Hill. Aside from Aizen, Gin, and Tosen there were others present as well. Sentaro, Kiyone, Chojiro, and Nanao were here as they had never left. Even Omaeda and Iba were back after Kishin had knocked them out earlier. To Kishin's surprise Byakuya and Ichigo were present as well. Both of them looked beaten and bloody, but they were otherwise alive and standing. It was at this moment that Ishida, Orihime, Sado, and Ganju made it up the long flight of stairs on the side of the giant hill and came dashing over. In fact, even Renji was with them.
Kishin raised his eyebrow in curiosity and figured that Ishida must have found out where Orihime and the others were being kept prisoner and broke them out. He had no idea how Renji ended up with them. Then again the last he saw of Renji was inside a dark warehouse within the 13th division grounds being healed by Kinji so it wasn't out of the realm of possibility that they all met by coincidence.
"K-Kishin?!" Ichigo struggled to question both startled and confused in his bleeding banged up state. "What are you doing back here? And wait, where did you go? And who are those guys?"
Byakuya was even more shocked than Ichigo was as he stared at Aizen in disbelief, however he managed to quickly recompose himself as he commented, "Captain Aizen...so y-" He paused mid sentence as a voice boomed in his head. In fact, it wasn't just him. All the Captains and Lieutenants throughout the Seireitei heard Isane's voice at this very moment. A look of understanding soon flashed past Byakuya's face as he narrowed his eyes at the three traitorous Captains.
Aizen smirked and stood completely still with a look of contempt on his face. "I see. So Captain Unohana and Lieutenant Kotetsu have relayed what they discovered. Well, it would be strange if they didn't."
It was then that the sound of Toshiro's loud screaming voice could be heard as he appeared from the bottom side of the Sokyoku Hill. "AIZEN!"
FWISH!
Toshiro landed by Kishin's side as he glared murderous daggers at the traitorous 5th division Captain.
"Ohya. Captain Hitsugaya. So you were still around then I see. And Hinamori?"
"Don't you dare speak her name. You're unworthy!"
"Heh. Unworthy you say? What's the matter? Ah, is it perhaps that the only person she can spare to think about is me? Well, that's understandable. After all, I did train her not to live without me."
Toshiro clenched his hands into fists so hard that he drew a little blood from his palms. "You bastard! What did you do to her?!"
"Me? Didn't I just tell you. I trained her not to live without me. After she heard news of my death did she attempt to kill herself? I advise you to simply kill her yourself and save her from her misery."
"YOU-"
"Toshiro." Kishin interjected, catching his friends attention. "What are you doing here?"
Toshiro took a deep breath to calm his emotions before responding, "It hasn't been an hour yet so we waited as per planned, but after hearing what Isane said I can't just leave this be. Hinamori's suffering inside because she wasn't executed and now she's trying to take her own life wanting her body to be buried beside Aizen's! Do you know how absurd that sounds? I'll kill him!"
Kishin turned his attention back to Aizen and asked, "What did you do?"
Aizen just smirked and closed his eyes. "Did I not tell you long ago? I made modifications to my plan."
"What are you talking about? Hinamori's strong attachment to you was one of your modifications?"
Aizen let out a light chuckle. "Correct. After having learnt that Kuchiki Rukia was no longer suffering from her internal turmoil over Shiba Kaien's death and that she had begun to drastically improve her skills as a Shingami training under you, she no longer became as perfect of a piece in my plan as I had hoped. In light of this I had to condition Hinamori even more to devote her entire being to me. I even trained her to fear the Hollow that I sent to Karakura Town the night that she transferred her powers to a Human." He then turned to Ichigo and continued, "Since she could not fight properly due to fear, she was gravely injured and was left with no other choice but to transfer her powers to you, Kurosaki Ichigo."
Kishin furrowed his brow and inquired, "Then why did you send Rukia with her?"
"Heh. Have you not figured it out? For two reasons. The first is that Hinamori's mental condition was not stable enough to give proper training instructions. That was the role I entrusted to Kuchiki Rukia. As for the second reason, it was simply because I wished to see exactly how you would move against me."
Kishin furrowed his brow feeling slightly angry. "You did it on purpose just to see how I would react?"
"Correct, Chigetsu-kun. Ever since I found out that you were in contact with Urahara Kisuke I kept close tabs on him and the Hogyoku. I knew that you both were probably planning to hide away the Hogyoku, however I did not know how yet. I observed him for a few years after our confrontation in Hueco Mundo and discovered what his plan was. He was preparing a Gigai that breaks down the reiryoku of a spiritual being turning them into a Human and he planned to implant the Hogyoku in the soul of that being. After knowing that, I deliberately set up the events behind Hinamori's loss of powers. I knew that Urahara Kisuke would take this chance to implant the Hogyoku inside of her. All he needed to do was wait until she was completely Human to alter her memories and hide her away from me."
Toshiro widened his eyes in shock and dashed out in anger. "You bastard! You dare!"
"Wait!" Kishin stretched out his hand to stop Toshiro from charging in, but just then he was interrupted from Ichigo dashing in front of him and charging in as well. "Stop!" Kishin attempted, however it was no use.
Toshiro dashed in the air above Aizen and shouted, "Bankai! Daiguren Hyorinmaru!" Near instantly his right arm transformed into an ice dragon head whilst his left arm transformed into an ice dragon claw. Giant ice wings protruded from his back as a long ice tail extended from behind him. His feet were covered in icy talons as 3 giant diamond-like purple colored ice flowers floated above his head consisting of 4 petals each.
Ichigo also slashed out with his sword as he was already in Bankai and shouted angrily, "You're the one who caused all of this you bastard!"
Aizen just smirked and stared indifferently at the pincer attack of Toshiro and Ichigo. With a simple swing of his sword he destroyed Toshiro's Bankai and left a large gash on the Captain's chest and shoulder and with his free hand he lifted up a single finger and caught Ichigo's Zanpakuto.
"UH?!" Ichigo exclaimed in shock.
No way! Even Kishin didn't dare to stop my blade with his bare hands when I'm in Bankai!
FWISH!
With a single slash Aizen left a giant wound along Ichigo's waist causing blood to spurt out on the ground. "Ohya? I thought I cut you in half, well, no matter."
Thud.
Ichigo fell to the ground unable to move as he recalled how Kishin told him that Aizen was probably stronger than him.
D-Damn it…
"KUH?!" Aizen widened his eyes in shock as he looked down at his chest where Toshiro's sword pierced through him. Toshiro growled and pushed his sword further and further into Aizen's body as he commented, "What you cut down was an ice clone. It's only effective once against my enemies, but that's all I need. Pay with your life, Aizen Sosuke..."
"Hn. Don't speak so carelessly, Captain Hitsugaya. It'll make you appear weak." Toshiro widened his eyes in shock as he heard Aizen's voice behind him. It was then the Aizen impaled with his sword vanished into thin air.
CLANG!
The sound of two metals clashing echoed in everyone's ears as Kishin arrived just in time to block Aizen's sword strike against Toshiro's back.
"Well countered, Chigetsu-kun." Aizen amusedly remarked.
"K-Kishin?!" Toshiro inquired in shock as he had been caught off guard by Aizen's trick.
Kishin just clicked his tongue and disengaged from Aizen whilst dragging Toshiro back with him. "Don't rush in so recklessly you idiot." He glared at Aizen and mentally cursed the traitorous Captain as he had felt that something was off the moment that they returned to the Sokyoku Hill.
This bastard. So he released his Kyoka Suigetsu in the surrounding area immediately after we landed. He didn't even bother to wait and show me its release either.
Kishin then turned to look at Ichigo's sorry state on the ground bleeding out to death and was just about to walk over to help, but it was then a hand rested on his shoulders.
"Kinji?" He questioned.
Kinji nodded and walked over to Ichigo placing him in a barrier to stop him from dying. "I've got this."
"But what ab-"
Before Kishin could voice his questions he was stopped as he felt Rukia's presence behind him. "Kishin, we heard everything from Isane. Don't worry, Yushiro is with Hinamori."
Aizen narrowed his eyes in amusement and stared at Rukia and Kishin for a moment in consideration. "My my...Kuchiki Rukia."
Rukia furrowed her brow and stared cautiously at Aizen causing the defected Captain to let out a light chuckle. "Hahaha, now what is with that glare of yours? No need to be wary. In fact, I have a proposal for you."
"A proposal?"
"That's right. Why not join me?"
Kishin stepped in front of Rukia to shield her from Aizen's gaze and growled, "What do you think you're doing? Aizen…"
"Oh? Why nothing really. If Kuchiki Rukia were to join my side then wouldn't you too join me? I am merely extending an invitation."
Rukia peeked out from behind Kishin's back and shook her head. "Never!"
Aizen let out a sigh and shook his head in disappointment. "I see. That's too bad." He then went on continuing his explanation. "Well, where was I? Oh, right. I discovered that Urahara Kisuke planned to embed the Hogyoku inside a soul and I knew that there were only two ways to remove an item that has been treated this way. The first method is to use intense thermal disruption like the Sokyoku to completely evaporate the soul surrounding the foreign object inside. As for the second method, one needs to somehow disrupt the composition of the soul that will forcefully separate the object from it. I had guessed that this method laid within the past research methods of Urahara Kisuke. If he could implant an object inside the soul then surely he had devised a method to remove it. The reason why I had Kuchiki Rukia and Hinamori remain in Karakura Town for an extra two months was precisely because I was still searching for that method. You see, I was never planning on using the Sokyoku as the method of extraction in the first place."
Kishin furrowed his brow in confusion, however he soon widened his eyes in understanding as he recalled that Aizen kept telling him how he had already won during their fight. "It...you...since when?"
Aizen grinned and commented, "I see you've realized it. Correct. I told you before did I not? That I've already won. After discovering what method Urahara Kisuke was going to use to hide the Hogyoku I decided to kill off Central 46 just prior to sending Kuchiki Rukia and Hinamori Momo to the World of the Living. Then, after I confirmed that Urahara implanted the Hogyoku in Hinamori I searched for the method of extracting a foreign object from the soul in the Daireishokairo...and I found it. Hidden within his sealed away research files. After having the method in my hands," he glanced at Byakuya's haggard form nearby and continued, "I sent Captain Kuchiki and Lieutenant Abarai to retrieve the criminals."
Kishin grit his teeth and asked, "And the reason why I was sent later to retrieve Rukia?"
"Heh. I was merely wondering what your reaction would be. That's all. In fact I was quite impressed. To think that you were able to hold back all this time and not make any large waves to move against me the entire time in fear of what I would do to your precious friends and beloved. I commend you for your self-restraint."
"You bastard…"
"Ohya? Angry are you? Everything has been in my control from the very beginning, Chigetsu-kun. I hope you do not feel frustrated. After all, did you really think that you or anyone else could actually have been able to hinder or stop my plans from coming to fruition? I, who have had my eyes on the Hogyoku for over 100 years? Of course not. It's no surprise that you all lost."
Kishin clicked his tongue in annoyance and asked, "Then the Sokyoku? Why go through with it? And the Hogyoku...when the hell did you take it?"
"Heh. The moment that Captain Kuchiki and Lieutenant Abarai stepped foot back into Soul Society through the Senkaimon with Hinamori in tow, I had already released my Kyoka Suigetsu in that area. It was not difficult to make them believe that they were taking the prisoner away. Taking the Hogyoku from within Hinamori's soul took but only a few moments. I promptly returned her to their side after I was done without anyone ever realizing that she was gone. As for the Sokyoku? It served two purposes. The first was that I had hoped to kill Hinamori this way. It would be quick and painless. As I had trained her to not be able to live without me, I found that it would be quite merciful to kill her in this way. Don't you think so as well? It would grant her liberation from suffering in a world without me. As for the second, I was simply curious as to how you all would react. I wanted to see exactly what you all had planned in order to prevent me from obtaining the Hogyoku." He glanced at Ichigo on the ground before continuing, "I also wished to observe your growth, Ryoka boy. I must say, you did quite well considering how little time you had to grow into your power. Though I regret not being able to watch your fight against Captain Kuchiki due to someone's timely interference. Now the-"
FWISH! FWISH! FWISH! FWISH! FWISH!
Aizen's sentence was cut short as the sound of the other Captains and Lieutenants arriving on the Sokyoku Hill appeared one after the other. It wasn't long before nearly all Captains and Lieutenants of the Gotei 13 were present. The only one's missing were those from the 4th, 11th and 12th divisions.
Aizen smirked and took in the sight of everyone surrounding him. "My my. What a showing." He turned to see Yoruichi nearby and commented, "Ah, it's been quite a long time since we've last met, Shihoin Yoruichi, however you don't seem too pleased to see me again."
Yoruichi furrowed her brow and responded, "Aizen. You bastard. How long have you been watching us?"
"Us? I see. You are referring to Urahara Kisuke and yourself I presume. I believe your question should be reworded to when have I not been keeping watch?"
"Tch. Continue to gloat all you want. You may seem confident, however there is nowhere left for you to run. Regardless of the power of your Kyoka Suigetsu."
Aizen let out a slight laugh causing Yoruichi to frown. "What's so funny?"
"Ah, nothing. Everything that has happened thus far was quite entertaining. I applaud everyone's efforts even though they mattered not in the end."
Kira who was also present turned to look at Gin with a complicated and pained expression in his eyes as he felt completely betrayed. "C-Captain Ichimaru...it's not true right? You haven't joined Aizen. You're only pretending right?"
Gin's facial expression remained indifferent as he started to walk forward to respond, however he never got as far as one single step before he was held in place from behind with a sword held to his neck.
"Don't move." A feminine voice said from behind him.
Gin slightly frowned and remained completely still. "Rangiku…"
Her face scrunched up a bit as she struggled to fight her confused emotions. "Gin…" She softly spoke his name. It almost seemed as if she had hoped she was currently in a dream. That this was all a bad nightmare and that she would wake up from it at any moment, however it didn't happen.
Even with his eyes closed Gin could see the pained expression deep within her. His heart rate quickened just slightly in guilt knowing that he was hurting her, but he resolved himself to continue through with his own plans. He slightly turned his head towards Kishin recalling what they once discussed. The fight that he witnessed of Kishin against Aizen played back in his mind causing him to ponder if he was making the right decision.
Tosen was also currently held captive by Hisagi at this moment and Komamura who had been somewhat healed by Unohana glared at the defected 9th division Captain. "Tosen! Explain yourself! Is this the justice that you spoke of?"
BAM!
Before anyone could make any more fuss of the situation the sound of Yamamoto slamming his cane into the ground caught everyone's attention. He slowly opened his eyes glaring with indifference at Aizen, Gin, and Tosen. "Aizen Sosuke. Ichimaru Gin. Tosen Kaname. This is as far as you go. To think that three Captains of the Gotei 13 are responsible for bringing chaos to the Soul Society. To murder the Central 46 Chamber and impersonating them to then be so brazen as to drag the entirety of the Gotei 13 into a sinister plot."
Aizen smirked and turned to stare at the old elderly Captain. "Ah, Head Captain Yamamoto. Thank you for your short but concise summary, however you've been informed of the truth far too late."
"Silence! Your actions are unforgivable. You shall be executed immediately."
"Heh." Aizen closed his eyes and smiled complacently.
"You can still act calm in this situation? It seems you haven't realized exactly what kind of position you're currently in." Soi Fon cooly remarked.
Aizen remained completely unperturbed and calmly responded, "I don't realize what position I'm in? No. It's quite the opposite, Captain Soi Fon. It is meaningless even with all of you here."
"What are you talking about?" Soi Fon narrowed her eyes with a hint of caution.
"You'll understand in a moment. It is time after all."
FWOOM!
"UH?!" Rangiku and Hisagi immediately dashed back as a yellow rectangular light fell from the sky enveloping the three traitorous Captains inside. As everyone's eyes followed the trail of light their eyes wavered for just a moment as they took in the sight in the sky. There was a giant Garganta opened above the clouds with tens of Gillians inside of it, but what made everyone feel shocked was the mysterious giant purple colored eye that was hidden deep in the darkness of that space.
Kinji furrowed his brow and commented, "Negacion. A pillar of light that creates an isolated space that Menos use to save their fellow Hollows. Aizen...so this is why you remained so calm. You've already planned your escape."
Aizen glanced in Kinji's direction and commented, "Ohya. Tsunayashiro Kinji, the new Commander of the Kido Corps. I don't believe I've congratulated you just yet. This is quite excellent though. You are close friends with Chigetsu-kun are you not? Then perhaps the two of you just may discover the truth."
Kinji frowned in confusion having no idea what Aizen was talking about.
Just as Gin began to float into the air heading towards the giant hole in the sky he slightly turned and gave Rangiku an apologetic look. "Ahhh...what a let down...I wouldn't have minded being your prisoner for just a little longer...this is goodbye, Rangiku. I'm sorry..."
"Gin…" Rangiku softly whispered his name as she watched him ascend into the sky along with Aizen and Tosen.
BAM!
The sound of a rock being crushed could be heard as Komamura slammed his foot on the ground. "Tosen! Come down here! I don't understand! Why did you become a Shinigami? Wasn't it because you wanted to carry out justice for your friend who passed away? Where has your sense of justice gone?!"
Tosen remained indifferent as he emotionlessly replied, "I told you, Komamura. The only thing I can see with my eye is the least bloody path. Justice is always there. The path I follow is justice."
Ukitake furrowed his brow and took a step forward staring up at Aizen slowly floating away on a bed of rock. "So you've joined with the Menos. Why?"
Aizen stared back with indifference. "To reach higher."
"Have you fallen so much, Aizen?"
"Hn. You're too arrogant, Ukitake. No one stood at the top from the beginning. Not you, not me, not even the gods." He slowly removed his glasses and slicked back the hair on his head. "However, that unbearable vacancy on heaven's throne ends now."
CLANK!
The sound of Aizen's glasses shattering to pieces echoed in the air as he crushed them between his fingers. "From now on...I shall stand atop the heavens. Goodbye, Shinigami. Goodbye, Ryoka boy. You've come quite far for a Human." As Aizen stepped foot atop one of the large white hands of a Gillian he gave one last look at Kishin. "Chigetsu-kun. I look forward to our next encounter. I wonder if by then, you shall have learnt the truth."
Toshiro gritted his teeth and shouted in anger. "Wait! Aizen you bastard!"
However Aizen didn't bother to give Toshiro another look as the giant Garganta closed in the sky disappearing along with all the Gillians and the three traitorous Captains.
Several Hours Later
There was currently an orange hue cast across the sky over the entirety of the Seireitei as the sun had begun its descent into night. The loud noises of people chattering and shuffling about could be heard as the medical unit of the 4th division rushed around treating people's injuries atop the Sokyoku Hill. Due to all of this it was currently quite busy on the chaotic overhang of the cliff. The giant guillotine arch of the execution stand was missing a giant portion in the middle of where the two long wooden posts were supposed to intersect. There was also a giant gaping hole in the ground beneath the execution stand from when Ichigo had stabbed his Zanpakuto into the arch and destroyed it. A long deep trench also ran horizontally across the Hill created at some point from Ichigo's battle with Byakuya.
Kishin gave a light sigh as he sat on the ground watching the hustle and bustle before him. He watched as Toshiro sat on the ground beside an unconscious Hinamori as Unohana attempted to assess her current level of health. Rangiku stood behind her Captain to give him moral support, but she herself wasn't doing too well either as her mental and emotional state was currently in turmoil from the confusion of Gin's betrayal.
Kira was currently knelt down on the ground still staring up at the sky where Gin had disappeared into the Garganta from earlier. Hisagi was in a similar position though instead of Gin, his thoughts were on Tosen.
Komamura was currently seated with his eyes closed deep in thought. A confused expression was plastered on his face as he was just as bewildered as Hisagi was from Tosen's betrayal. Even though Unohana healed the injuries that he sustained from his fight with Kishin much earlier in the day she hadn't had time to heal him completely. She only performed some quick first aid to ensure his life wasn't threatened and so he was currently getting a more in depth treatment from some other members in the 4th division.
Ichigo was still here as well as he was currently surrounded by Orihime, Ishida, Ganju, and Sado with an orange barrier enclosing him inside to heal his injuries, compliments of Orihime's powers.
Renji who had shown up with them on the Hill was getting a more thorough treatment for his injuries that he sustained against Byakuya as the medical team started draping some bandaged cloths around his body. Although Kinji had healed his wounds with Kido it was only to the point where his life wouldn't be threatened. Renji still had considerable wounds that needed to be dealt with.
And finally Kishin turned his head to his right and watched as Rukia sat beside Byakuya's injured frame as the Captain was being treated by some 4th division members. He had sustained some extensive damage during his fight against Ichigo that seriously needed some attention. Their fight had been more evenly matched and grueling than the stoic Captain had thought it would be. Ichigo in his Bankai state and Getsuga Tensho ability proved to be more dangerous and more troublesome than the Captain had liked to admit, however with his more refined skills such as Kido and the versatility of his own Bankai coupled with his years of battle experience he was more than a match against Ichigo's sheer volume in power. In the end the fight between them had ended in a draw, at least that was the result due to the interference of Aizen and the others showing up.
Another sigh escaped Kishin's lips as he saw the look on Rukia's worried face become shocked and startled before turning back into worry. Byakuya had lifted up his hand to reach out to her to which she immediately took hold of and warmly squeezed. A few tears had rolled off of her eyes and Kishin knew that Byakuya must have told her the truth about Hisana. It was then he heard a purring beside him so he turned and looked down to where the source of the noise came from, however he was momentarily stunned at the sight before him. Down by his lap were two cats. One completely black in color and the other, orange. No doubt they were Yoruichi and Yushiro in their cat transformations. Kishin felt a bit awkward as the two Shihoin siblings purred and sat by his side. It was his first time ever seeing Yushiro transformed into a cat so he stared at his playful friend with intrigue.
"What?" Yushiro inquired, however Kishin widened his eyes completely dumbfounded as the sound of Yushiro's voice was completely feminine.
"What? Shocked that Yushiro's voice sounds like a woman's in his cat form and mine sounds like a man's voice in my cat form?" Yoruichi mischievously commented as she stared at Kishin's reaction.
Kishin just cleared his throat before giving an awkward look at the two siblings. "Ahem...why the hell does your guys voice change to sound like the opposite gender when you're in your cat forms?"
Yoruichi just licked her paw and indifferently replied, "Isn't it more fun that way? We get to mess around with people and it's funnier to see people's reactions when they find out that I'm a woman or that Yushiro is actually a guy."
Kishin just rubbed the back of his neck mildly amused. "Isn't it enough already to shock people when they find out that you aren't a cat? You have to mess with them even more and make them think that you're the opposite gender too?"
Yushiro walked a bit closer in his four-legged form and swayed his tail from side to side like a slippery snake in the air replying to Kishin's comment, "Well, if we're going to play a prank then go big or go home right? Hehe."
Kishin raised his eyebrow somewhat amused before shaking his head. For a good long while the aura around the three of them remained peaceful, that was until Kishin turned to Yoruichi and asked, "So? Seems we failed in the end. I never imagined that Aizen would have already gotten his hands on the Hogyoku from the very start. What're you gonna do now?"
Yoruichi let out a sigh and was about to answer, but Yushiro quickly interjected with a bit of panic in his voice. "S-Sister! Y-You aren't going to leave again are you?! The last time you disappeared I didn't see you for over a hundred years!"
Yoruichi again let out a sigh and amusedly pawed Yushiro's face. "Don't be silly Yushiro. I obviously didn't show myself for over a hundred years because Kisuke's name wasn't cleared. Soul Society was still searching for us back then, but it's different now. Aizen showed his true colors and even killed the members of Central 46. I reckon a lot of things will be changing around here. Although I won't be sticking around for long you'll see me more often than before."
Yushiro's eyes immediately beamed as he rubbed up his whiskered face against Yoruichi's neck. A low purring noise came from his lips evidently happy that he could see Yoruichi more often now. Yoruichi on the other hand turned and gave Kishin a helpless look in her eyes to which he smirked and shook his head. "Don't look at me. He's your brother."
It was then a large shadow fell over Kishin as someone stood in front of the setting sunlight. Kishin turned his attention to the person responsible and greeted, "Yo, Captain Komamura. Have your wounds fully healed?"
Bam!
The loud noise of Komamura instantly falling to his hands and knees bowing his head to Kishin could be heard throughout the entirety of the giant hill. "Lieutenant Chigetsu. I deeply apologize. It appears that I was the one that was truly blinded. I wrongly accused you and attacked you. As a Captain it is truly disgraceful of me for not having investigated the matter more thoroughly before coming to a final conclusion."
Kishin stared at the beastly Captain bowing his head before him for a few long seconds before he waved his hand uninterestedly and commented, "Alright, the matter is over. I accept your apology, Captain Komamura. You shouldn't bow your head so easily. You are a Captain after all and I'm just a Lieutenant."
Komamura took a deep breath before lifting up his head and nodded appreciatively towards Kishin. "Mn. Thank you for accepting my apology. Though I am a Captain it remains that I was too blinded to even see through the truth of my best friend Tosen. I am truly ashamed." He then stood up and started to walk off into the distance, but not before he said one last thing. "Lieutenant Chigetsu...After today's incident the crimes that you have been accused of will likely be completely dropped, but just in case I will do my all to ensure that you and your comrades do not face any negative consequences."
Kishin smirked and closed his eyes relaxedly. "Heh, I see. Then I'll be counting on you for that, Captain."
MISC.
Negacion (Negation): A pillar of yellow light that Menos use to envelope their comrades to save them. Within the light is a completely isolated space that cannot be interacted with from the outside.
HOHO (Step Method):
-Onmitsu Hoho-Shiho #3: Utsusemi (Way of Onmitsu-3rd of the Shiho: Cicada Shell)
KIDO (Demon Way): (Underlined means it's an original Kido Spell I made that does not exist in canon. Italics is the Incantation.)
-Hado #3: Hirameku (Flash): Generates a blinding flash of white light from the caster's hand.
-Hado #78: Zangerin (Cutting Flower Ring)
-Hado #79: Buki Henkan (Weapon Transformation): Takes the user's reiryoku and generates a Kido weapon that can transform into many other handheld weapons such as a katana, spear, dagger, etc.
-Hado #89: Hyoga Seiran (Glacier Vapor Storm)
-Hado #90: Kurohitsugi (Black Coffin)
-Bakudo #44: Sentan Hakuja (Thousand-Coil White Snake): Obviously doesn't have a number in canon, but I decided to number it as 44.
-Bakudo #90: Kin No Kyuden (Palace of Gold): Creates a large 12 sided golden barrier with the defensive capability of defending against even Hado #90 as long as the caster's strength is at a sufficient enough level as to not be overwhelmed by the enemy's own power.
Grand castle of time! Sieging wars unable to bring down the mountain! Stare down below with contempt. Encircle all within your grasp. Stand still and tall, be proud and arrogant! Hold disdain for both mortals and immortals alike. A fortress of unshakable might!
Kishin's Zanpakuto: Sekiken Zansatsu (Blade of Crimson Carnage)
Shikai Release Command: Wash all things in a river of blood.
Shikai Appearance: A completely black colored double edged katana with blood stain marks on the bottom portion of the sharpened edge up to the tip. The hilt of the blade is obsidian black in color with 5 blood red lotus flower patterns carved on both sides. The guard of the hilt takes the shape of four obsidian colored crescent shaped moons that sparkle with a hint of crimson red. The crescent shaped guard on the top and bottom have the concavity of the moon faced towards the center of the hilt and blade while on the left and on the right side of the hilt the crescent shaped moons have the concavity facing outwards and away from the hilt and blade. The blade itself is approximately 90cm long.
Shikai Abilities:
1. Saku (Cleave): Kishin channels some blood and reiatsu into his Zanpakuto and fires out a red crescent blade at his target. The more blood he infuses the harder, stronger, and sharper his attack becomes. The more reiatsu he infuses the faster and more aura and Kido-like his attack becomes. He has the ability to change the trajectory of this technique one time after it is fired.
2. Shitsuyona Shukketsu (Relentless Bleeding): When activated his blade glows a subtle hint of crimson red. Whatever he cuts, no matter how shallow the cut is, it will grow and spread until one end of the cut loops around and meets with the other end of the cut. The wound created by this ability will continue to cause the target to bleed profusely. It will not clot or slow down. With each passing second more and more blood bleeds out faster and faster until the target bleeds to death.
3. Guren (Crimson Lotus): When Kishin cuts his target with the bloodstained edge of his katana it creates an infected wound on their body. When he activates this technique the targets blood around the site of the infected wound clumps together and forms a dense and hardened sharp crimson colored blood lotus. That blood lotus grows by continuously aggregating more and more of the targets blood tearing and puncturing the target's internal organs and ripping open their flesh and body. The blood lotus only stops growing when the target has no more blood left to offer leaving them left as only a pile of tarnished flesh and bones.
4. Nomu (Drink): This ability is both passive and active. Every time Kishin's blade comes into contact with blood, some of that blood is absorbed into his Zanpakuto and stored inside the lotus flower patterns carved on the hilt of his sword. There are a total of 10 lotus flower patterns carved on the hilt of his katana. The more blood stored inside a lotus flower the more crimson red it shines. Kishin can use the blood stored in the lotus flowers to fuel his blood based abilities like Saku or he can convert it into compatible blood and absorb it into his body to replenish his own blood loss. As long as his blade is in contact with blood, he can actively force the blade to absorb the blood at a faster rate than its normal passive state does. An advantage granted by this ability is the fact that he can reabsorb the blood he used for his Saku technique as long as the attack has yet to dissipate.
Bankai: Akai Shi No Zencho (The Omen of Red Death)
Bankai Appearance: There is no difference in the appearance of Kishin's Zanpakuto except for the fact that there is a red blood mist that flows out from his blade. That blood mist does not stray more than 5 meters away from the blade. Kishin also gains a red crescent moon tattoo on the center of his forehead as well as lotus flower tattoos on the back of his hands, the top of his feet, and a large one on his back. Black colored shackles with short broken black chains also appear around his neck, his wrists, and his ankles.
Bankai Abilities:
1. The abilities of his Shikai are still able to be utilized in his Bankai form. The blood mist around Kishin's Zanpakuto can absorb the blood around him and fuel his Zanpakuto powers or siphon the blood back into his body.
2. Chi Nagare Kawa (Blood Flowing River): A river of blood erupts from Kishin's Zanpakuto 100 meters long, 10 meters wide, and 20 meters deep engulfing all within its violent wave. It washes all things it touches into blood before everything dissipates into a large cloud of red bloody mist. Other secrets of this ability are currently N/A.
KISHIN'S HOLLOW MASK:
White in color with a ferocious row of sharp teeth by the mouth area. Some blood stain marks are painted on the tip of some of the teeth. Two jagged horns protrude from the side of the mask and one smaller horn protrude from the middle of the forehead. Black scar lines run through the horns with the pointed tips having a blood red tint. A red scar runs across the mask that begins a little to the left of the middle horn and down across the bridge of the nose between the eyes stopping just a few centimeters away near the bottom of the right eye. Two holes appear around the eyes to let him see. His eyes in this form turn black in color with red colored irises. There are also crimson colored blood tear droplets and lines ran down from the eye to the jaw of the mask.
Aizen's Zanpakuto: Kyoka Suigetsu (Mirror Flower Water Moon)
Shikai Release Command: Kudakero (Shatter)
Shikai Appearance: A normal looking katana with a green colored hilt and an elongated hexagonal shaped guard looking almost like a diamond.
Shikai Abilities:
1. Kanzen Saimin (Complete/Perfect Hypnosis): By showing his target(s) the release of his Shikai he can place anyone who has seen it under hypnosis where he can control all 5 senses of the target(s) such as sight, smell, taste, hearing, and touch. The targets only need to see it once for Aizen to place them under his hypnosis whenever he releases his Shikai in the future.
Toshiro's Zanpakuto: Hyorinmaru (Ice Ring)
Shikai Release Command: Sit upon the frozen heavens.
Shikai Appearance: A normal looking katana albeit longer in length than normal at about 1.4 meters long. The guard has the shape of a four-pointed bronze colored star. The hilt is light blue in color. A crescent shaped blade is attached to the pommel by a long metal chain which can extend if necessary.
Shikai Abilities:
1. Can transform water into ice. His slashes can generate long Chinese looking ice dragons with red glowing eyes that can fly out to freeze all things it touches.
Bankai: Daiguren Hyorinmaru (Great Roaring Coldly Shining Moon)
Bankai Appearance: Toshiro's right arm transforms into an ice dragon head whilst his left arm transforms into an ice dragon claw. Giant ice wings protrude from his back and a long ice tail extends from behind him. His feet are covered in icy talons and 3 giant diamond-like purple colored ice flowers float above his head consisting of 4 petals each
Bankai Abilities:
1. Zanhyo Ningyo (Lingering Ice Puppet): Toshiro can generate an ice clone of himself to fool and trick his opponents though the trick usually only works once.
Ichigo's Zanpakuto: Zangetsu (Slaying Moon)
Shikai Release Command: Always in Shikai Release state.
Shikai Appearance: It has no handle or guard and simply has white bandage cloths wrapped around the hilt. The blade itself is as tall as Ichigo himself. It somewhat represents that of an oversized khyber knife with the top half of the blade black in color and the bottom half white in color.
Shikai Abilities:
-Getsuga Tensho (Moon Fang Heaven Piercer): Ichigo fuels his reiatsu into his Zanpakuto and fires it out creating a giant amplified swing of his sword. His Getsuga is blue in color.
Bankai: Tensa Zangetsu (Heaven Chain Slaying Moon)
Bankai Appearance: In this form Ichigo's shihakusho transforms into a black slim fitted long coat and his Zanpakuto shrinks into the form of a black colored katana. The guard takes on the shape of a manji and the handle has red colored diamond patterns on it.
Bankai Abilities:
1. Getsuga Tensho (Moon Fang Heaven Piercer): Ichigo fuels his reiatsu into his Zanpakuto and fires it out creating a giant amplified swing of his sword. His Getsuga is black in color with a red tint.