While Cayo thought he had seen enough to have a good feel of his opponent, he understood that he needed to go on the offensive. Taking his stance, he silently willed the [Ability Boost], [Greater Ability Boost], and [War Charge] arts, the latter allowing him to slam into enemies with a straight charge with great speed and force.
With his [Martial Arts] stacked on top of each other, Cayo charged at Vali with renewed life, presenting him with noticeably fast and firm living, man-sized projectile. Clasping his hands together, Vali started gathering his Ki in between his hands, causing small particles to form around them. Parting them with the Ki gathered in his right hand, it seemed as if it was glowing. Gathering his strength behind his right arm, Vali pushed it outwards with a roar.
"[Almighty Push]!"
The extension of the arms released all of the accumulated Ki, creating a rather beautiful display of small lights in the air as an unseen force hit Cayo, and sent him flying through the statue and onto the front doors of the manor. Miraculously the doors held, but the Espada was left to fall onto the ground with a loud thud.
Seeing his opponent on his knees, Vali closed the distance for his next attack as he went for a right downwards cross. Cayo countered this by placing his shield in front, blocking the blow as he rose to his feet and swinging his weapon upward. This earned him a slash across Vali's chest, though it wasn't deep, or nearly enough to stop him from continuing his assault. However, at this point Cayo was vertical, with his enemy as close as he wanted.
Cayo attacked with his shield, which Vali countered with a palm-strike from his left hand. Cayo used this to his advantage, slicing at his foe's arm, though once more the slash was shallow. A low hiss escaped Vali's lips as he thrust-kicked Cayo back onto the door. Wrapping his right hand around Cayo's neck, Vali started gathering Ki in his left, which was now taking the form of fire. At this action, the Espada smiled as he rammed his bardiche into the ground, and wrapped his right hand around Vali's right wrist.
"[Shield Bash]!"
Moving his shield upwards, Cayo sent it full force into Vali's arm, sending a reverberating cracking sound through the air, and forcing his opponent to release him, stopping whatever attack he was preparing. Yet Cayo did not let go of his foe's wrist. Instead, using this connection to Vali to rain down successive concussive blows with his shield, and then finishing it up with another [Shield Bash] to his opponent's face, sending him onto the ground with a cracked mask.
Regaining his weapon, Cayo brought it down on Vali, willing his [Grand Power Strike] art as he did, which would in theory, allow him to obliterate any weapon, armor, or enemy while he was channeling his collective strength and power into it. However, as he was bringing his weapon down on Vali...
"[Almighty Push]!"
His opponent once again used that strange Ki-based shockwave attack, sending him flying back, along with lifting a large cloud of dust. Breaking through the smoke screen, Cayo got the chance to witness Vali remove his broken mask and damaged shirt, revealing mid-length white hair, a wider mouth than usual, and the fact his torso was covered in tattoo-like markings, along with a large scar in the center of his chest.
"I see your arm is back into place... No cuts... Is there anything that can damage you?" Cayo asked with a tired sigh.
Vali placed his legs apart slightly, clenched his fist and tensed his entire body, building up his Ki and allowing it to flow out of his body, this being shown by the several small particles that erupted from his body. Veins began to bulge, his body shifting and adapting to the tension he was going to call upon.
"[Monk's Cowl: Fire]!"
As Vali shouted in an almost inhuman tone, the particles of Ki around him turned into flames, and was enveloped in a fire-type aura. Letting out a low growl, his body went back to normal, even if some of the veins were still visible. Vali called upon an art that allowed him to enhance his base speed, agility, and power, along with dealing fire-type damage in each of his attacks, along with facilitating the usage of fire-based abilities. However, this placed a great strain on his body. Something Vali could counter with his unique constitution, which also meant he could use it for longer periods of time, though not indefinitely.
"[Flame Dragon Ball]!"
Calling upon another attack, Vali clasped his hands together before pushing them outwards, unleashing a sizable fireball upon Cayo, that shifted into the jaws of a dragon that enveloped the Espada in an inferno.
"[Scatter & Disperse]!"
The art attacks the very air and ground around the warrior in a forward arc, and was normally meant to gain distance between adversaries. Cayo used it to disperse the flames, saving himself from any real damage. However, he quickly realized he lost sight of Vali. That was until he received a kick to his back, causing him to arch forward, and leaving him open to kicks to the gut as Vali moved to his right side. Bending forwards, Cayo was quickly brought back up as an elbow landed on his face, a crunching sound filling the air as his nose gave under the blow.
"[Komi's Fist: Fire]!"
"[Invulnerable Fortress]!"
Luckily Cayo was able to place his shield in front of the blow, though he executed it too late. So while part of his foe's attack was cancelled, Cayo still felt most of it as his shield was broken into pieces. A portion of his armor also received some damage as he was sent flying onto the ground. Vali however was left with a damaged hand, which he was able to heal, but Cayo had noticed that doing this caused him to release his [Monk's Cowl: Fire] art. A subtle grin crossed his lips as he picked up that weakness...
Meanwhile with Alvis, Arisuke, and Yoruichi, the vampire currently placed his attention on the duplicate when she took a stance of her own, seemingly ready to attack. Preparing his weapon, Arisuke started to approach her, until suddenly he picked up on something attacking him from below, forcing him to jump back as Alvis tried attacking him as he emerged from Arisuke's own shadow.
Alvis just used an ability called [Shadow Leap], that became possible after he used his another power called [Shadow Merge]. While the latter allowed him to merge with someone's shadow, the former allowed him to move from shadow-to-shadow. He did this to merge with Arisuke's shadow and attack him from below, though unfortunately his opponent managed to avoid it. While he lost his daggers, Alvis created another one from his own solidified blood, using an ability called [Blood Weapons]. By drawing the blood from the gash on his arm, he made the weapon exceptionally hard and durable in his bid to damage his foe.
"How... Where did you learn these abilities!?" Arisuke growled, visibly incensed.
How was this possible? How could this boy have the same abilities as his lover? Yes, it could be a coincidence, but the way he felt and the way he moved when he used them, all made him believe that this child knew of his lover. He needed answers, and he needed them now. Taking a deep, calming breath, Arisuke prepared himself to subdue Alvis.
Alvis did not know how to reply to his opponent's sudden question. Especially when he had not "learned" them through training, but learned of them through the changes he discovered in his altered body after Aizen's procedure. While he considered telling the truth, he was unsure if he should to a currently hostile enemy.
"I... I don't have anything to say to you... [Flow Acceleration]! [Pace of the Wind]!"
"We shall see about that... [Specter Step]!"
Arisuke moved almost in an instant, leaving Alvis with almost no time to react as the vampire was on top of him. As the blade came down on him, Alvis used his already engaged arts to dodge and attack Arisuke from behind, with the vampire calling upon another of his own arts called [Flowing Water Movement], to more easily handle Alvis' increased speed and agility. For a moment they became vague shapes and blurs as they exchanged blows, as Alvis then placed a small blade between his fingers in each hand to allow him to inflict some damage with punches.
"[Piercing Aura Weapons]."
Alvis called upon this art as his now glowing blood-blade made their way towards Arisuke's head. The vampire had seemingly lost their exchange, but at the last moment moved to the side as the blade scrapped his right shoulder. As he moved, Arisuke also shifted his right hand, bringing his Tachi upwards, slicing through Alvis' arm, and finishing it with a kick to the gut to floor the Espada.
Alvis squirmed under the agony brought on by this new experience, with his hand going to his stump, and his face becoming pale as he looked up at his aggressor, his heart beating faster along with his breath. In almost a blink, his foe tied off his stump to stymie the loss of blood as he was kneeling next to Alvis, speaking with a growl.
"Do not panic. I have many things to ask you. Now tell me, do you know a vampire named So Haruhira?"
"I..."
As Alvis tried to speak, Arisuke turned around flicking out of the air a small blade that had been thrown at him by Yoruichi. As the vampire focused on the woman, he was stunned to see that she was gone, just for her to reappear next to him and deliver a swift kick to his head, sending him onto a nearby tree.
"Leave him alone. You're fighting me now." She aggressively announced.
What had she done? Did she use a technique similar to his [Specter Step]? No, it didn't feel the same. There was a distinct difference between himself and her. He felt it when she landed her kick on him. While he could tell there was raw power in it, his senses picked up on a strange essence flowing through her. Still, he couldn't let this affect him. He had other things to attend to.
"Are you his better?" Arisuke asked, getting to his feet.
"In pretty much everything that is not outright power." Yoruichi replied with a confident expression.
"And then how will you defeat me?" He coldly asked, now walking towards her.
"Oh, I have a lot of tricks I'm certain you've never seen." She remarked with a grin, now taking her stance.
"Such as?" He dryly asked.
"Such as... Shunkō!"
Meanwhile, as the fights were in one way or the other going in the favor of Arisuke and Vali, Yama and Kusumi had sprung into action. They found their opening in an overconfident guard that got to close to a window, slightly opening it to better scan the area, allowing for one of the five Snakemen Kusumi summoned to pull him out, and allow the others to enter.
Yama then quickly started spreading chaos, easily smashing through any barrier or resistance placed in front of him, with Kusumi and her minions searching the area for their goal. This tactic allowed them to quickly make their way to the area where the servants and Cayo's family were. This led to a natural increase of screams of panic, along with the destruction Yama left behind, giving Cayo the signal to call for help.
Sending what seemed to be the final group of guards flying, the Yasei no Kari members arrived at a large room, with furniture placed against the back wall, in an obvious effort to barricade the final door separating them from the rest of the inhabitants of the manor. As they started to walk into the room, a distortion formed near the barricade, which then turned into a vertical line of bright light, opening like sliding doors as two individuals emerged, with the portal of light closing behind them. These were the reinforcements from Las Noches, Yammy and Ulquiorra.
"That one's a looker.~" Kusumi remarked with a smile, looking at Ulquiorra.
"That one looks strong." Yama stoically pointed out, examining Yammy.
"Ulquiorra, are these the guys?" Yammy asked, scratching his chest as he looked upon the manor's invaders.
"They are, Yammy."
"I see." Yammy replied with a grin, as he began walking towards the enemy.
"I'll..." Yama went to speak, but Kusumi spoke over him.
"No. Snakemen, kill him." She tersely instructed.
The five Snakemen lunged at Yammy, who just gave them an annoyed look as he punched the head of one clean off, sending two flying, and caught the heads of the last two in each of his hands before crushing them like grapes. He then sent the corpses flying with a bored expression thoughout.
"I'll take him." Yama firmly announced.
"Hah! Try me." Yammy laughed.
Both men stopped in front of the other. With their height almost the same, they stared each other down for a moment, doing nothing. That was until Yammy suddenly executed a straight punch, which Yama blocked with his left hand. He then counterattacked, delivering an uppercut sending the duplicate stumbling backwards.
"Hoh? This guy's got some power to him. Suerte!" Yammy gleefully remarked, rebounding with another punch.
"Heh. So, do you." Yama respectfully said, charging at the duplicate.
Yama ducked under Yammy's punch, tackling the duplicate. However, he managed to keep his footing, then wrapping his arms around Yama, before throwing him into a wall to his left. The Oni hit the wall hard, but managed to stay upright. He didn't have much time to act as Yammy came running at him. Tackling Yama through several walls until eventually they fell out of an opening in the manor and back outside.
"You're strong." Yama remarked, stumbling back to his feet.
"Meh! I was expecting more of you." Yammy lazily said, looking unimpressed.
"Don't worry. I won't disappoint."
With that, Yama ripped away his cloak, lifting the restraint placed on him as he grew back to his full size, now easily towering over Yammy at two and a half times his height. The duplicate now looked more pleased at the situation, just for Yama to deliver a quick right hook, sending Yammy into the ground.
"So?" The Oni asked with a now booming voice.
"Heh! Much better." Yammy chortled with a grin, wiping blood away from his lips.
Kusumi now found herself in a rather difficult situation. As the weakest member her team at level-50, she usually had someone with her to face of an unknown enemy. Right now, she was starting to wish that was the case. Her years of experience dealing with people told her that this "Ulquiorra" was a cold person. Someone that would not be affected by her charms. Especially when he didn't seem to show any interest in her. She would need another strategy.
"Hello. My name is Kusumi. I was wondering if we really needed to fight. You see I'm not really someone who works on the front lines, and to be in the presence of such a great warrior as yourself, only makes me feel inadequate. So, could we go about this another way?"
"What do you suggest?" Ulquiorra asked in a dispassionate monotone.
"You give up. Or I'll kill the hostages."
Almost on queue, screams were heard from the other side of the barricade, getting Ulquiorra's attention. Not enough for him to look away from Kusumi, but enough to get some kind of reaction out of him.
"That's right. You kill me and my summons kill everyone in there."
"Hm. Very well. In that case, I need only to subdue you." Ulquiorra coldly remarked, his hands still in his pockets.
"Indeed." Kusumi said, with a nervous tone as she revealed several talismans in her hand.
Throwing eight talismans onto the floor, Kusumi summoned 4 Snakeman Warriors, 2 Snakeman Bowmen, and 2 Snakeman Mages. Two spear-wielding of the warriors attacked Ulquiorra, with him simply removing his right hand from his pocket as he waited for them to get close. When they did, the first Snakeman attacked with a simple thrust, which the duplicate deftly avoided, ramming his hand into the fiend's chest as if it were a blade itself.
The second warrior thrust his spear right through his dead comrade's head, attempting to take the duplicate by surprise. Looking completely unconcerned, Ulquiorra ran his hand through the body of the dead Snakeman, breaking the inserted spear in the process. Thus disarmed, the second warrior met the same fate as the first with a hand through his chest.
"Bows, fire!" Kusumi ordered.
Upon her command, the bowmen opened fire on Ulquiorra. The idea was that with one hand occupied, his mobility and ability to block and/or escape would be compromised. The duplicate remained calm as he turned the corpse to take all the shots. Once the barrage ended, Ulquiorra dropped the corpse and started to calmly walk towards Kusumi and her men, as if he were taking a midday stroll.
"Troublesome..." Kusumi hissed, motioning her summons to clear the way between her and Ulquiorra, while preparing two other talismans in her other hand.
"Casters, fire!" She ordered, as she threw the talismans.
"[Poison Javelin]!"
Both Snakeman fired two toxic projectiles that would easily poison their targets through skin contact alone. However, despite their impressive speed, Ulquiorra avoided them with ease as he stepped to the side with such speed that it created an afterimage of him.
"Tsk! No matter. [Summon Beast: Titanoboa]!"
From the talismans erupted two massive constructor snakes, with both of them lunging straight for Ulquiorra, even before their bodies were given full corporeality. At full size of 42-feet, they should possess the necessary power to hold back Ulquiorra. Being pounced upon by the giant snakes, Ulquiorra jump backed, dodging several attacks as he got closer to the barricade.
This briefly made Kusumi think she had succeeded in overwhelming him. Ulquiorra had nowhere left to run, and as soon as the snakes lunged at him, he vanished in a blur, causing them to smash into the barricade. Then just as suddenly, he reappeared some distance away from said barricade.
"Bows, fire! Warriors, attack!"
As her summoned minions followed her instructions, the two snakes burrowed through the barricade, causing portions of it to clear a path to the door. Something that Kusumi quickly realized was his goal. Erupting from the barricade, the snakes once more attacked Ulquiorra, who retaliated with a spinning kick, destroying the head of one, and sending its body against the other, momentarily incapacitating it.
Having handled the snakes, Ulquiorra was assaulted by both scimitar-wielding Snakemen. He easily avoided the blows, and thrusted his hand upwards, slicing the head of a warrior in half, following this up by kicking the second in the chest, caving it in and killing it. As their bodies collapsed, the second giant snake attacked, just for Ulquiorra to move his hand in a blur, slicing its skull in half.
"Dammit..." Kusumi hissed, visibly displeased and nervous with the situation.
Meanwhile, Arisuke found himself avoiding and taking exceedingly swift blows from Yoruichi. He was unsure of what was happening. He had never seen this "Shunkō" technique before, and while it was similar to the [Monk's Cowl: Lightning] art, the amount of time she was able to keep it active and its speed rivaled masters of thet technique. The situation reached such a state, that Arisuke was forced to use both of his weapons to keep up with blows that seemed to materialize out of nowhere.
Worse still, he was forced to use his two [Rings of Sealed-Magic] to contend with her. The first ring invoked a [Lightning Resistance] spell, while the other activated the [Shield Wall] spell. Truly, he would have felt ashamed in using these items, if his opponent was not so formidable. Though the former spell only had a marginal effect in staving off her lightning-based attacks. Whatever it was, it was no ordinary lightning. He was already forced to use his fourth and final ring, [Ring of Crimson Vitae], to heal his wounds for the one of two charges the item held.
Feeling another kick approaching from behind, Arisuke spun on his heel bringing his Tachi towards her leg, landing a slashing blow. This prompted Yoruichi to place one hand on his shoulder to push herself away, landing on the ground as best she could with the wound on her left leg. Yoruichi was covered in electric-type energy, with several bolts of lightning erupting from her form and into the ground, including large amounts of energy that blew upwards from her back almost like wings.
While Yoruichi had managed to land some great hits, she had yet to do any lasting damage to him. In contrast, along with the new slash to her leg, she had already taken several other blows. Her legs and torso were covered in cuts and lacerations. Her right arm took considerable blows, but was still functional. A gash on the right side of her face left it covered in a layer of crimson, as she controlled her labored breathing.
Taking her stance, Yoruichi channeled her power into her right fist and pushed it forwards in a devastating wave of energy, resulting in a massive explosion and huge cloud of smoke and debris to be lifted up into the air. While she was unsure of how much damage she caused, a wakizashi came rushing in from within the smokescreen, which she dodged, but just for Arisuke to appear next to her using his [Specter Step], followed by...
"[Swallow Reversal-First Step]."
He whispered the technique's name in a barely audible tone as he invoked it. This allowed him to perform three different slashes of light simultaneously to attack her. This caught her by surprise, and ensured that she couldn't escape as he brought his blade down on her once more, dropping Yoruichi to her knees as her Shunkō dissipated.
"You've done well, for someone of your level. You have my respect." Arisuke reverently said, lifting his tachi above her head.
Acting as if in defiance, Yoruichi looked up at Arisuke with a weak smile as she pointed at him with her index finger.
"Bakudō #61: Rikujōkōrō."
Yellow energy formed on her finger, which then shot out into thin beams of light which hit the vampire's midsection, immobilizing him.
"W-What is this..." Arisuke growled as his body failed to respond to his commands.
"My tricks.~"
Stumbling back to her feet, Yoruichi took a deep breath, calling upon her Shunkō again to be able to maximize her damage output. Taking her stance, she used a Hakuda technique called, "Ikkotsu". Though its true effectiveness was limited by her level, combined with her Shunkō, a powerful single punch explosively made contact with Arisuke's chest. Before the his eyes the impossible happened; his armor cracked under the pressure, causing his body to vibrate as he was sent flying through several trees, until he crashed not too far from the manor.
Arisuke found himself in a daze, and while his body was now free, it was still recovering from that massive strike that cracked his armor. As he tried to recover, suddenly Yoruichi appeared on-top of him. Unsure of what would come next, Arisuke tried to protect himself by shifting into his [Mist Form]. However, before he could, Yoruichi started to rain an innumerable barrage of blows on him. This was another Hakuda art called "Raiōken", leaving him unable to react.
The resulting shockwaves of the repeated high-speed blows, began damaging the nearby area, shifting several trees, along with affecting the nearby building and creating a crater under Arisuke. Eventually it stopped, and her Shunkō faded away as fatigue and the damage she took caught up with her. Her breath became heavy as her hands ached from the strain, along with the bleeding, and her drained Reiatsu reserves. Still, on the bright-side, Arisuke laid motionless below her, slammed into the ground and with several pieces of his armor cracked.
"That..."
As Yoruichi spoke, Arisuke swung at her with his tachi. Reacting quickly she used Shunpo to escape. However, it would seem that she did not react quickly enough, because when she vanished so did Arisuke's weapon.
Finding himself alone, Arisuke stumbled back to his feet, causing pieces of his armor to fall off. While these were mostly superficial pieces, with his skin exposed only where he took the initial blow, it was considerable damage in his eyes. After all, for her to be able to damage his [Flame-Ryu Armor], made out of enchanted adamantite chainmail and Flame Dragon scales, meant to take on both physical and magical damage, she was truly formidable for her lower level.
Then there was the damage to his body caused by that strange "lightning" of hers. It made his nerves and his insides feeling like they were on fire. He felt like he was dying. Whatever that power was, it was dangerous to an undead. Using the last healing charge in his [Ring of Crimson Vitae] item, he felt the pain subside as the ring's crimson glow flashed, and then faded.
Using [Specter Step], Arisuke quickly made his way to the lake, where he was greeted by a crouching Yoruichi, with Alvis sitting behind her with a worried expression as she insisted on protecting him, even if she now sported a large gash on her side from when Arisuke rammed his blade into her before she escaped him. Looking around, Arisuke saw his tachi not too far from them, and still intact. He only needed to retrieve it and finish things.
"Came back for more?" Yoruichi asked with a weak laugh.
"You're in no condition to face me anymore. But you did well while you could..." Arisuke respectfully remarked, before appearing next to them and reclaiming his weapon.
"...However, you two have lost, and now..."
Arisuke silenced himself when Alvis stumbled back to his feet, still missing an arm. With the several injuries he had sustained, he looked pale, and unable to do much of anything.
"I... I'll finish this." Alvis said weakly, but with clear determination.
"How?" Arisuke asked with an eyebrow raise.
"I'll show you my true power... Consume, Vampiro!"
A shockwave of air was expelled outward as Alvis' mouth opened wide, with blood gushing out in a torrent. This covered the young Espada in a terrifying display that forced both Arisuke and Yoruichi to distance themselves from him. The blood gathered around him, taking the shape of a blob-like orb, from where a pair of crimson eyes shined, sending a chill through Arisuke, as the blob took on humanoid shape.
The face was still mostly that of Alvis, but he was taller and paler with his skin taking on a light-gray color, with a thin, toned frame and long limbs. His hands ended in claws, with his hair now a long flowing black mane going down his back that was so dark it looked like it was dipped in shadow. His ears became slightly pointed, as his now slitted eyes maintained a near-constant crimson glow. His gear was covered in what seemed to be a long-tailed coat that was crimson in color, and seemingly made out of blood, even if it was consistent in form.
"Haruhira?" Arisuke gasped, not failing to see the resemblance to his lover.
"Dead and what he was now resides within me." Alvis replied, with a more confident, deep, and grim tone.
"W...What did you do to him!" Arisuke cried out, now blindly lunging at the Espada.
"..."
Cayo's was in bad shape on his end of the battle. Pieces of his armor were gone, he was bleeding from one side of his mouth with a few teeth missing, his right eye was swollen, but he still stood. Vali lost his gloves, and had a few tears in his pants, but otherwise had no wounds.
"Aw, come on. I'm still standing." Cayo said with a grin, taking a weak stance.
Ignoring him, Vali clenched his left fist, adding [Natural Steel Weapon] so as to take Cayo out for good. The 8th-Espada replied by placing his weapon in the way. This didn't stop Vali since he was certain the weapon would offer little resistance. However...
"[Payback Strikes]!"
When Vali's fist struck the blade, Cayo's [Martial Art] activated, blocking the hit and redirecting the force of the blow back upon the mercenary, along with Cayo's own strength added in. Vali was easily overwhelmed, with his hand sliced off, and being sent staggering backwards, leaving him open for another attack from Cayo.
"[Assaulting..."
"[Almighty Push]!"
Vali countered, sending Cayo onto his back, giving him the necessary time to motion with his stump towards the severed hand, leading to muscle tissue spreading from the stump, and into the hand pulling it back and reattaching it. Having reacquired his hand, Vali delivered a spinning kick to the side of Cayo's head as he was getting back to his feet, sending the Espada onto all fours. Vali stomped on his head, forcing Cayo's face into the floor. Vali then kicked Cayo upright, so they were once again looking at each other.
"Damn..." Cayo groaned, managing to spit out some teeth as he spoke with a growl.
"...You come here... attack me and my family... For what?"
"Surely you understand. It's our job." Vali coldly informed.
"Of... course... Then, I hope you understand... this... Trample, Chivo!"
A burst of displaced air shot out in all directions as a light engulfed Cayo. This sudden event caused Vali to stumble away, as the light turned into an orb that eventually faded, revealing a transformed Cayo. Having grown taller, his legs were like those of a goat. His arms had grown longer with claws, and most of the upper-half of his armor had broken apart revealing a hairier torso, with a line of fur going up his back to his head, where now two horns rested.
All of his previous wounds were healed, and appearance-wise he was not too different from a satyr. Taken aback by this, Vali used his [Monk] ability to determine if his opponent had gotten stronger with this astonishing transformation. Much to his shock, his level-74 opponent had somehow become to be a level-89.
"Oooh, I'm going to enjoy this." Cayo said with gleeful menace.
Cayo charged head-first towards Vali, taking advantage of the small distance between them. His greater speed and power sent Vali flying with one blow, over the place the statue used to be, and into the entrance to that area. Picking up his bardiche, he approached the fallen Vali, ready to finish things. The mercenary stumbled back to his feet, just to fall to all fours once again, as if in a daze.
Vali let out a low hiss. He had taken more damage than he was aware, and while he knew the item within could heal him, it might start to take a toll on his body. He was silently thankful he had some "extra" organs stored within himself. Along with making him more resilient to internal damage, it also allowed the item to heal him, but it could only last for so long.
"[Monk's Cowl: Hellfire]!"
Calling out for his strongest and unique form of this art, Vali was engulfed in black and red flames. Like the other version, this gave him a boost and facilitated the usage of his techniques with Hellfire buffing them. All the while, this put his body through an even greater strain, and while he could heal some of the damage, he couldn't do so forever.
Meanwhile, Yama and Yammy had beaten each other almost to an equal extent. Several trees had been broken in half or unearthed, and now both were staring each other down, waiting for what would come next.
"Impressive. Most impressive. Not only do I get to come to the north, but I get to fight someone like you. I'm happy for that, but I can end this in one blow." Yama remarked, with a toothy grin.
"Hah! Bold words."
Clenching his right fist, Yama started gathering Ki, which eventually turned into electricity as he prepared for his strongest blow. Yammy also clenched his right hand into a fist as he prepared.
"[Komi's Fist: Lightning]!"
"Ikkotsu!"
Both fists made cataclysmic contact, and the area was bathed in an electricity filled shockwave as the fighters arms were obliterated in burnt, bloody messes. As both reeled back in pain, Yammy was now angrier. Having lost an arm, he decided that he had enough, and would kill Yama before he could recover and put up some type of defense. Lifting his palm up towards Yama's head...
"Hadō #31: Shakkahō!"
Yammy fired a red-colored orb of energy from his hand, which hit Yama full force in the face, obliterating it and downing the Oni for good.
"Keh! Serves him right. Huh. Wonder how Ulquiorra's doing."
After having wasted his time on several minions and summons, the was barricade brought down, allowing Ulquiorra to see that several snakes along with two Snakemen were keeping the people in the room hostage. However, after killing all opposition, except the ones keeping the hostages, he now stood in front of a kneeling, pleading Kusumi.
"I give up. You win. Just... don't kill me."
While she could have just ordered the death of the hostages, she knew that this would mean he would kill her, and she wasn't a fool. At the moment she could only hope Yama would return and give her the necessary opening.
"Ulquiorra? How are things here?" Yammy asked, emerging from the hole in the wall.
"I'm almost done, Yammy. I just need to convince her to release the hostages."
"Meh. She looks convinced enough as is." Yammy apathetically remarked, looking at her pathetic form.
"Perhaps. Still..." Ulquiorra began, just for Kusumi to speak over him.
"Fine. I'll do it. Release them."
Upon her command, the Snakemen exited the room, along with the several snakes slithering on the floor. They were all now positioned in front of the destroyed barricade in an idle state as they waited for their next orders.
"Huh. That was easy enough. What now, Ulquiorra?"
As Yammy nonchalantly asked his question, Ulquiorra closed his eyes, pointed his right finger at the reptilian group, and then pointed towards the ceiling as he spoke as if in a chant...
"Seeping crest of turbidity... Arrogant vessel of lunacy... Boil forth and deny! Grow numb and flicker! Disrupt sleep! Crawling queen of iron! Eternally self-destructing doll of mud! Unite! Repulse! Fill with soil and know your own powerlessness! Hadō #90: Kurohitsugi!"
If the death of Yama wasn't enough of a shock, Kusumi saw a strange black box form around her minions. Upon it were several spike-like formations of the same color that looked like crosses, which were pulled into the box. When it dispersed, only bloody chunks of meat were all that remained of her minions.
"Hah! Show off." Yammy laughed.
"Nonsense. I was simply testing it on live enemies. Now woman, rise and walk forwards." Ulquiorra stated in a dispassionate tone.
"As you wish." Kusumi acknowledged as she did as instructed.
"Yo! You're all free!" Yammy announced with a puff-out chest, as they started to walk away, with dazed and/or terrified expressions on their faces.
Near the lake, Arisuke found himself in quite the reverse of their earlier situation. He had lost his right hand and tachi, now only having his wakizashi in his left. Through the opening left in his armor by Yoruichi, Alvis had rammed a katana made out of the blood in his "coat". He had been completely outdone. Not in a contest of skills, but simply due to his foe becoming too much for him. So overwhelming was Alvis' renewed strength that he couldn't compete.
Alvis had done his very best to finish it as quickly as possible, as Yoruichi was in need of healing, and he had no way to do so at the moment. So as he had his solidified "blood weapon" inside Arisuke's abdomen, he tried to talk him into surrending.
"You lost. Yield."
"I will not dishonor myself to that extent." Arisuke hissed, trying to attack with his left hand, just for Alvis to grab onto it, stop him.
"I'll tell you what happened to that vampire." Alvis stoically argued.
"You lie!"
"I do not."
Arisuke looked into Alvis' eyes, and was once more taken aback. They felt so much like the eyes of his lover, allowing him to see that indeed the boy was speaking the truth. Perhaps he should comply and rid himself of the question that had been plaguing him for so long. Still, it meant he would go against his orders. For all he knew, Vali was winning or finished his fight. Still, knowing that the boy could transform like this, there was no reason to think his superior's opponent couldn't. Indeed, the most correct thing to think was that Vali too would be overwhelmed... Yes. That made sense, and in that case, perhaps he should capitulate.
"I yield."
Alvis nodded, and then retracted and undid his blood weapon as he turned his attention back to a wounded Yoruichi, to ensure that she could hold on for a little while longer as he sent a message to Las Noches.
"What about my answers?" Arisuke asked impatiently.
"I'll tell you when my people get here, and everyone that needs healing is healed." Alvis calmly replied.
"...Very well."
The only battle left to be settled was between Cayo and Vali. Still under the effects of his enhancement technique, Vali jumped upwards, placing himself above Cayo as he clasped his hands together, and concentrated all of his hellfire in his hand.
"[Komi's Hand: Hellfire]!"
The blow failed to hit as Cayo swiftly dodged backwards, causing Vali to strike the ground. As he prepared his next attack, Cayo scored a surprise left-hook, sending the mercenary staggering to the side, and then brought his blade down on Vali for a horizontal blow.
"[Grand Power Strike]!"
Vali had no time to react, as his body was cut in two at the waist, leaving him alive but in agony and unable to defend himself in any way.
"Graaagh! That's for messing with my family! And this one's for me!"
Just as Cayo brought his blade down on Vali's chest, Aizen appeared and easily stopped his attack as if it was nothing as an explosive displacement of air erupted from his blocked blow.
"That's enough, Cayo. We have what we wanted."
"W...What... do you mean?" Vali asked while coughing up blood, feeling completely spent.
"Your team is defeated, as are you. And we still have what you came for."
Lifting his head, Vali saw Arisuke emerge from a nearby forest, along with a tall vampire with Alvis' face, and a tanned woman he did not recognize. Behind them there were a few others, but they too were strangers to him. As the doors to the manor opened, he saw Kusumi along with two more strangers. Kusumi's sullen expression, and the fact Yama wasn't there, quickly told him that the Oni was dead.
"...Was this a trap?" Vali asked, letting out a tired sigh.
"Not initially. But once you made your intentions known, we were contacted by our agents here and this plan was formed. After all, we couldn't ignore the presence of beings of such power as yourselves." Aizen coolly replied.
Vali cursed himself. He didn't even consider that the enemy could be capable of doing such things. Still, having seen this newcomer calmly stop the attack of his opponent, he was now greatly concerned. It was obvious they lost, so now he had to see what this incredibly powerful stranger intended for them.
"Cayo, bring his legs." Aizen instructed.
Giving his superior a nod, Cayo promptly placed the lower portion of Vali next to his upper-half. Afterward, Aizen placed his right hand on Vali, using healing Kidō that bathed him in a green light. This fully healed Vali, surprising the mercenary but still did not make him lower his guard. Not to mention he did not recognize the type of power was used on him. Not even the demons he had fought in the past had such abilities or energies.
"Please have the rest of his team join him. And my name is Aizen. Sōsuke Aizen."
Arisuke and Kusumi briefly looked at each other, before Vali motioned them to do as they were told. They eventually joined him, just as he was getting back to his feet.
"You lost?" Vali asked, looking at Arisuke.
"I yielded. After having been told I would be given answers about the fate of my lover."
"And? What did they say?" Kusumi asked with a genuinely compassionate tone.
"I was told nothing. I was deceived." Arisuke growled, looking at Alvis.
"I..." Alvis went to speak, but Aizen raised his hand to silence him.
"I ordered him to remain silent. You will learn everything once we have come to an agreement." Aizen informed.
"What agreement?" Vali asked with a perked brow.
"I suggest an alliance. You are stronger than your average fighter, and I could do with such people at my side."
"And? What if we disagree?" Vali asked with a leering glare.
"Then you may continue your fights. However, as you can see your opponents are still in their transformed states. I doubt it would be that much of a 'battle'."
"I say he makes a good point." Kusumi awkwardly pointed out.
"Hmph. Explain to me what we would be doing for you." Vali demanded.
"As I said, I need powerful individuals at my side. Only then will I have the means to fight against those that threaten this world and some of our mutual interests. After all, in the past there were demons, evil gods, and the like. Afterward, I want people to support me as I make this a better world. One of equality and unity."
"When spoken like that, it doesn't sound too different from what the First did." Kusumi casually remarked.
"Stay silent." Arisuke tersely demanded.
"W..." Kusumi went to speak, but Vali ignored and spoke over her.
"How do we know your 'better world' and 'equality' actually means that? How do we know you do not plan on destroying us all? I was there when the demons hordes attacked. They too were powerful beings, and they did nothing but kill and destroy."
"Hoh? You were there? How is that so? Are you one of the Thirteen Heroes? Perhaps the Black Knight? I read that he was part demon." Aizen asked, his interest peaked.
"I-I'm not him! I'm his victim!" Vali growled with visible rage.
"Hmm... I see. You said your name was 'Vali' correct? Could it be that you are Vali Kaas?" Aizen contemplatively asked.
"That's right."
"Then do you not understand what I am proposing? You have protected this land before. So I ask you to help me do so again."
"Indeed, I protected them, but then I was left for dead after I became... this." Vali stated in resentment as he motioned to himself.
"That will not happen here. That much I can assure you. As you can see, my people aren't entirely human, and neither am I. We do not judge based on such things."
"Hmm... Hmph... You two... What do you think?" Vali pointedly asked, looking at his subordinates.
"I shall be honest. They seem to have answers to my questions... I say we should listen to them." Arisuke replied with folded arms.
"Honestly, I gave up as soon as I was overwhelmed. With all due respect, boss, I feel like we have been outmatched and there's nothing to be gained from opposing them. I say we accept."
Vali let out a frustrated groan as both of his comrades basically told him they were for it. On his end, Vali was unsure of what to say. While he could clearly see they didn't necessarily agree, death would be the only other option. A part of him did not want to be part of this. He was free as he was now. He was surrounded by people that he wanted to be with, and he had a firm purpose. Not he didn't make that much of an impact on the world, but he was satisfied.
The thought of going back to taking orders from someone didn't appeal to him. His mind then went back to Keeno, or "Evileye" as she called herself now. She had made something of herself. Even if it seemed so small compared to what they used to do, it was something. She had even managed to live with her condition. Perhaps, going back into such a "grand design" wouldn't be that bad. Especially if it kept him and the people he had seen potential in alive.
"Very well. We agree." Vali informed in a sigh of resignation.
"Then it is a pleasure to work with you. That being said, I believe we should know who we are working with." Aizen pointed out with a cordial tone and smile.
"Hm. Very well. We are the Yasei no Kari. We come from the southern nation of 'Kokka no Shinku-Kokai'. I am Vali Kaas. This is Arisuke Sengoku. And she is Kusumi Kuchiki."
"A pleasure. We are the Espada. This is our 10th-ranked member, Alvis Kavaro. And this is our 8th-Espada, Cayo Ozzik Gantz." Aizen replied as he motioned to the named Espada.
"So, this was your home? Sorry about that." Kusumi contritely remarked.
"Now, the statue you came for. Is it important?" Aizen asked in mild curiosity.
"It is." Vali flatly replied.
"I see. Then, Cayo. Alvis. I want you to return to your base forms. We will need to convince your mother to give it back."
"G-Give it back!?" Cayo spat back, clearly displeased given recent events.
"Yes. It was stolen and it should be returned to its owner." Vali plainly replied.
"Ugh. Of course it was... Fine." Cayo said with a weary sigh.
They then proceeded to return to their base forms. In Alvis' case, his "blood coat" extended to envelope his body, before his form shrank back to Alvis' original proportions. Once the body retook its shape, the blood retracted back into his mouth, until the young Espada was back in his base form. For Cayo it was similar, as his horns began to glow, the light spreading across his body as it returned to his base proportions. When the light ultimately vanished only base Cayo was left.
"Good thing we did this. I didn't want to explain that to my family."
"Now that we can offer you what you want, I want to ask something of you." Aizen informed in a more businesslike tone.
"I'm listening." Vali bluntly replied.
"From what I understand, you are among the strongest mercenaries in the south. That being said, have you heard of the Kuchiki family that are under the wing of the Shibata clan?"
"We have. My sources have told me that my namesakes seemed to have appeared out of nowhere, and there are rumors Kuchiki Rukia is the one in line to be the bride of our Emperor." Kusumi said, getting a knowing smirk from Aizen.
"They are our people. Our agents. And it is due to that situation, I would request you also provide them with some assistance, to help with their credibility."
"From what I've heard, at this point her backing isn't the most important thing. But on the other hand, I do believe that if she does reach the status of 'imperial bride', to know that we are associated with her might help. It even might leave some people more relaxed, to know that we are 'controlled'." Kusumi thoughtfully mused as she cupped her chin with her left thumb and index-finger.
"Well, Vali?" Aizen asked.
"I already said we agreed. Still, if that is the case, we still need other jobs to make our coin."
"You are free to do as you wish, as long as you know what the priority is."
"We do."
"Then with that settled, I ask you to excuse both Cayo and myself. We need to go and recover your statue." Aizen informed, leaving shortly after with follow following behind.
Now that things were left with a more relaxed atmosphere, Arisuke approached Alvis. The young Espada felt some tension between them as he stopped, and while he was sure the vampire wouldn't attack, he feared what he might say afterward.
"I would like to know what happened to him. You may not understand, but for a long time he was my lover, and ever since he left, I feel as if I was left with a void on the inside. I would like to, if possible, close it." Arisuke informed with a distant look in his eyes.
"Uh... Right... Well, Haruhira attacked our village for a few days. He would come out at night, take a person or two and then vanish. One day, Aizen came to our village, and during that night Haruhira attacked. He managed to kill one person when he was detected. I also attacked me, but Aizen saved me and your lover was killed." Alvis said, talking as respectfully as he could.
"Ah. I see... I wish that had not been the case. But... So-kun was always more bloodthirsty than I. He was a good person but from time-to-time, but he just acted on it. He also liked to travel, but he normally returned... I guess that this wasn't the case. Still, how can you feel like him? How can you look like him when you transform?"
"Well..." Alvis went to speak, looking at Yoruichi searching for approval, and getting a nod in reply.
"You see, Aizen has strange powers. One of them allows him to fuse the 'essence' a living being with a dead one. He saw potential in me, a simple village person, and fused me with Haruhira to allow me to better explore my potential, and grow into the best version of myself."
Arisuke looked at Alvis, wondering how such a thing was possible. To fuse two bodies and get one with the powers of both? It sounded ridiculous. Otherworldly. A feat saved only for the gods. While it was true that himself, Kusumi, and Yama had gotten a power boost, thanks to consuming Vali's blood, it wasn't anything in comparison to what Alvis just told him. From a villager to a level-70 fighter?
"Is Aizen a god? How can he do such things?" Arisuke asked in tones of awe, mixed with dread, since Aizen's simple presence seemed to assault his very existence.
"N-No. I wouldn't go that far. Maybe... He just has great and unique powers. I'm sure he's the strongest being out there, and I don't think that will ever change."
"I see... Well, now that it seems we'll be working on the same side, I must say that you are disgracing the skills you have."
"As his teacher, I can say that he has improved quite a lot. But yes, he still has progress to make." Yoruichi pointed out with an impish grin.
"Hm... Perhaps I could help, if there was time for it." Arisuke thoughtfully suggested.
"Hoh? Why would you do that?" She curiously asked.
"Not only are we working together, but given who he is, I feel like I should help."
"T-Thank you." Alvis awkwardly said with an equally awkward small bow.
Inside the manor, some of the extra people Aizen brought with him were busy pulling away the corpses of the guards, with the servants doing their best to do something with themselves as they cleaned and cleared away debris. Just then, Aizen and Cayo approached and were speaking with Myra and Mabel.
"So, who is this?" Myra asked, looking at Cayo with a leering stare.
"This is Aizen. He is one of my employers."
"I see. And what do we ow the pleasure to?" She pointedly asked, clearly not pleased with the situation.
"First, we would like to apologize for the damage caused to your property. However, the enemy was stronger than we anticipated, and more difficult to contain." Aizen cordially replied.
"And will you be helping us to rebuild the home your people failed to protect?"
"Mother, please. We were the ones that failed here. Aizen has nothing to do with it. There's also the fact father only payed for the two of us. As it is, the people that we called here are already extras." Cayo interjected.
"I'm not talking to you son." Myra said in an empty tone as she kept her focus on Aizen.
Looking at Aizen, it was clear he was quite the looker. Hair swept back with a single strand hanging in front of his face... He was very attractive, but for her this was a trap. Sending someone with such looks to throw her off? It wouldn't happen. Not after the state her manor had been left in.
"So, will you help us?"
"As one of the main representatives of the Espada, I can say that if help is needed, I can lend you the people I have brought here that are helping to clear out the bodies. We can also provide some materials and financial assistance."
"Good. I am glad to see that my son is working with people of character." Myra remarked, pleased by the answer.
"However, we also request that what your husband brought here, be returned to the people that came here to collect it." Aizen matter-of-factly added.
"Excuse me? These people attacked me, my family, my home, and we are meant to give them something in return!? I refuse!" Myra quickly snapped back.
"But mother, Father stole and brought it here, hiring us because he knew people would come to collect it. He..." Cayo tried explaining, but stopped when his mother spoke over him.
"Don't you tell me what your father did or did not do! I know him better than you do."
"Oh, please! He left us to take the blow. This is the worst..." He tried to insist, just for her to laugh over him.
"Hah! This is not the worst thing that man has done..."
Myra stopped mid-sentence, her legs starting to grow weak before she stumbled backwards, being saved from falling by both her children, who then placed her on a chair.
"...T-To think I would have fallen this far. To once again be left to put up with his messes, and to see my son as a beast..." She mumbled, as she regained her bearings.
"Go and get my mother something, she isn't feeling well." Mabel ordered a nearby servant.
"What is she talking about? What did she see?" Cayo asked, looking at his sister in uncertainty.
"We... Um... We looked at what was happening outside. Just a moment, and we saw you. You were a... monster." She explained with eyes lowered.
"I shouldn't have let you leave... Seeing what happened to you..." Myra painfully said, looking up at him with strained eyes that looked as if she was holding back tears.
"Hey, nothing happened to me. Yes, I'm... a bit more than I was before, but I'm still me." Cayo insisted with a determined tone.
"We cannot argue that... But seeing you like that was a bit much, brother. Especially after all of what happened." Mabel pointed out.
"I know... I just didn't want to make you think less of me, or to think I was some kind of monster. It's just that... things happened out there. I almost died and was saved, but in order to live, I had to carry this with me." Cayo explained, just as a servant brought something for his mother to drink.
"Is there anything else we should know?" Myra asked, taking a gulp from her glass.
"No. That's all." Cayo firmly replied, wishing to keep his mother and sister away from details they didn't need.
"Aaah... To think that my child has changed this much without my knowing..." Myra mumbled in a downtrodden tone.
"Mother, please. Don't think too much on it. You weren't feeling well. And it is like Cayo says; he is still himself." Mabel said, visibly worried for her.
"I know... Very well, you can take the crate."
"What about father?" Cayo asked in concern.
"I know how to handle him." She replied with fire in her eyes.
"Thank you for your assistance. As promised, the Espada will help with the rebuilding process." Aizen declared.
With that out of the way, Aizen and Cayo started walking back outside. However, Aizen stopped in the middle of a hallway when they were alone, deciding to have a brief talk with Cayo.
"You and Alvis have done fine work. For that, both Amelia and I agreed that you two have earned a break. Why not stay here until you are called upon?"
"A... Are you certain?" Cayo asked, surprised by Aizen's words.
"I wouldn't say this if I wasn't."
"In that case, thank you." Cayo said with a bow, as he then turned and marched back through where they came from.
Aizen then went outside, joining the group of Vali, Arisuke, Kusumi, Alvis, Yoruichi, and now a healed Yammy and a silent Ulquiorra.
"It is surprising to see such high levels in this area." Vali remarked.
"It is all thanks to Aizen-sama." Ulquiorra stocially pointed out.
"That's also pretty funny, how you refer to him in that way. Or how he says his name like we do." Kusumi whimically chuckled.
"That's because I come from a place similar to your nation." Aizen said, joining the group.
"Really? Did you come from the same place as the First Emperor?" She eagerly asked.
"I doubt that is the case. Putting that aside, we will regain the statue shortly, and in your case, Alvis you will be given a break for your hard work." Aizen informed.
"Hoh? Then that's perfect. He needs some training. And it could also be the perfect chance for Arisuke to help him." Yoruichi pointed out with a pleased grin.
"What is she talking about?" Vali asked, looking at the vampire.
"What they explained earlier. This boy was fused with So-kun, so a part of him is in this boy. I suggested that I could help him become better."
"Then, you want to stay here?"
"Not at all. But if she says there is a chance to do it, I would like to try."
"Indeed, there is. Alvis will be staying in Las Noches, our base in another dimension. There you can help him train, and the rest of you, if you wish, can stay there until he is called upon to work again." Aizen explained.
Vali and his team were rather shocked by that latest detail about their newest, "partners". A base in another dimension? The very notion would have been completely ludicrous, but given the whirlwind assaults of surprises and revelations, they were forced to accept it as truth. Of course, the fact Aizen nonchalantly revealed that detail made Vali equal parts suspicious and reassured. The former because the more they knew, the more they could be controlled if they stepped out of line, and the latter because it showed that this "Aizen" was serious.
"I see... However, I must decline. While I understand your situation Arisuke, we have a job to finish. After that, perhaps we will go and help the boy."
"As you wish." Arisuke said with a small bow.
"Whatever the case may be, travel to Las Noches is required so as to send you to the home of the Kuchiki family." Aizen pointed out, just as two servants brought a crate to them.
Seeing the crate, Vali approached, kneeled next to, and opened it, revealing its contents. More specifically, the statue they were looking for, which at a glance seemed harmless and lacking in magic. That was for anyone that wasn't Aizen, as he picked up on something contained inside. Even if it was expertly hidden, he sensed something unique about it. Yet he did not question it, as there were other things to address, and he doubted that the Yasei no Kari would know of it.
"Very well. Let's go. We have people waiting for us." Vali said.
With that Aizen guided the group back near the lake, where he gave the remaining members of the Yasei no Kari a ring to protect them from the effects of Hueco Mundo. Arriving at Las Noches, the Yasei no Kari and their crate were quickly redirected to another portal that led to the Kuchiki home in the south. Now, Aizen's reach and influence saw a further expansion over others that would aspire to the top of this new world. Though the game was far from over...