Chapter 9
Now, I know some are mad that Chizuru was the 'antagonist' for this arc, but I intended for her to be killed since I know her past. Vengeance would be dull, which is why I had her killed before the battle so I could set her up for later in the story when she returns, but in a...different form.
Anywho, I hope you enjoy the Defenders Comeback since one of the Karakura Guardians will sadly die, but only their human life.
Now, onto the story!
"Ah!" Chad yelled in pain as he flew back and landed on the wall behind him. Shrieker smiled at the humans' pain.
"Aw. What's the matter, human? Sad you can't harm me as long as I have your pet?" Shrieker asked while placing a hand on the bird's cage.
"Leave...him out...of this!" Chad yelled as he fired another El Directo, which made Shrieker scoff at the same move before batting it away with a swipe of his claw.
"Is that really the best you have to offer? I'm not impressed," Shrieker said before releasing another chain reaction of his bombs. This forced Chad to defend himself, but the blast sent him flying back into another building in the fake park.
"Chad! No!" The soul in the bird yelled as the dust and smoke cleared to reveal Chad's body was covered in blood and dirt along with metal.
Shrieker laughed, thinking he killed the Fullbringer/Human as he landed on the ground and walked towards him.
"Now, to see if he's cooked just the way I like it. Deep grilled!" Shrieker said as he looked at the boy with his tongue out before leaning in. He felt his tongue grabbed by the Latino's hand before Chad ripped it out of his mouth, causing Shrieker to fly back as Chad slowly stood from the rubble.
"I figured if I timed it right, your guard would be down, and I could weaken you so you can't use those bombs anymore," Chad said as he stood back up and held Shrieker's tongue in his hand before tossing it aside.
Shrieker howled in pain, clutching at the raw wound where his tongue had once been, black blood oozing between his sharp fingers. The grotesque mask of his face twisted into an expression of fury, his shriek sounding more like a garbled roar without his tongue to guide it.
"You filthy human!" Shrieker tried to speak, his voice coming out as a grotesque, mangled growl. He swayed, momentarily stunned, before glaring at Chad with wild, bloodshot eyes. Rage boiled inside him, his reiatsu fluctuating chaotically as he staggered, unable to activate his bombs.
Chad, now standing tall amidst the rubble, blood dripping from his wounds, narrowed his eyes. His right arm, the Brazo Derecha de Gigante, glowed faintly as he clenched his fist. "You've been hurting innocent people for far too long," Chad said in a deep, persistent voice. "I'll make sure you never hurt anyone again."
Shrieker's body twitched as he stumbled forward, his claws extended, desperate to tear into Chad. Without his tongue, he could no longer summon his most deadly power, but his rage made him reckless, flailing wildly.
Chad sidestepped one of the blows and swung his arm around, landing a devastating blow against Shrieker's mask with a sound like thunder. Cracks splintered across the Hollow's face, and with a second punch, the mask shattered completely, revealing a deformed, twisted face underneath.
Shrieker's broken voice howled as he crumpled to the ground, struggling to rise. His eyes were wild with fear and disbelief. "No! This can't be... I can't—"
"It's over," Chad said, his tone as cold as steel. "Rest in peace."
Before Shrieker could react, Chad raised his fist one last time, bringing it down in a final, crushing blow. Shrieker's body convulsed, his form disintegrating into nothingness as his hollow soul was cleansed, leaving only silence in the fake park.
The soul within the bird's cage let out a relieved sigh, trembling slightly. "Thank you, Chad... I thought it was over for me."
Chad glanced over at the bird and nodded solemnly, wiping the blood from his face. "It's not over yet. We have to find the others."
As Chad turned to walk away, something caught his eye—an eerie, familiar presence in the distance. His heart sank as he recognized the reiatsu. It was faint but unmistakable.
"Tatsuki?"
A new threat was coming.
Now, with the Strawberry Head.
Ichigo stood motionless in the center of the dark, cold prison, his breaths shallow as his eyes fixated on the figure before him. Grand Fisher, now fully evolved into his Arrancar form, towered over him with a cruel smile stretched across his grotesque face. Yet what froze Ichigo's blood wasn't the monstrous visage of Grand Fisher—it was the figure he held before him.
His mother.
Masaki Kurosaki stood lifeless, a haunting expression in her eyes, her body swaying under Grand Fisher's control like a puppet. The sight of her—the very memory that had haunted Ichigo since he was a child—pierced deeper than any blade.
"Doesn't this bring back memories, Kurosaki?" Grand Fisher's voice echoed with malicious glee, a deep, guttural sound that slithered through the prison walls. "All those years ago... you couldn't save her. You just watched as she died. Helpless. Weak."
Ichigo's grip tightened on his Zanpakutō, the veins in his hand bulging. His knuckles turned white as the rage in his chest boiled, mixing with the familiar ache of guilt that Grand Fisher so expertly manipulated. His mother's image swayed before him, her blank eyes staring right through him.
"I won't fall for this again," Ichigo growled, his voice shaking but not with fear. His rage was bubbling to the surface. "You think you can hurt me with this sick trick? I've seen through your lies before. I won't let you use my mom like that!"
"Oh?" Grand Fisher chuckled darkly, his hollow eyes gleaming with sinister amusement. "Then why do your hands tremble? Why do your eyes linger on her face? She's the reason you're so broken, isn't she? You think you've grown stronger, but deep down, you're still that scared little boy."
Ichigo's breath hitched for just a moment, but he gritted his teeth, willing the fear and anguish back down. His eyes flashed with determination.
"You talk too much," he spat. "And I've had enough of your voice."
Without warning, Ichigo launched himself forward, his blade gleaming in the dim light of the prison. He aimed for Grand Fisher's mask, determined to end the Hollow once and for all. But just as his sword neared its mark, Masaki's figure was pulled directly in front of him, her body acting as a shield.
Ichigo's eyes widened in horror. He halted his swing at the last second, stumbling back to avoid cutting through her. His chest heaved as he cursed under his breath.
Grand Fisher laughed, his voice a sharp, jagged sound. "What's the matter, Kurosaki? It's still too soft. It's still too weak. How many times will you hesitate? How many times will you let your emotions blind you?"
Ichigo's mind raced. He couldn't harm the image of his mother, even if he knew it wasn't real. But the pain was too raw, too deep. Grand Fisher knew exactly how to torment him, using the very thing that had defined his life—his failure to protect the one person he loved most.
"See?" Grand Fisher sneered. "You're nothing, Kurosaki. You think you're a hero, but you couldn't even save your mother. I'll make sure you suffer again and again, watching her die, reliving that pain." His voice turned mocking. "This is what your power amounts to—nothing."
Ichigo's heart pounded in his chest. His vision blurred as a mixture of rage and grief threatened to overwhelm him. But amidst the taunts, a memory surfaced—Rukia's words from long ago.
"Don't let your past chain you. Use your pain to fuel your strength."
Ichigo's grip on his Zanpakutō tightened. His reiatsu surged around him, swirling violently, cutting through the oppressive darkness of the prison. His eyes hardened into sharp, determined slits as he locked onto Grand Fisher.
"You're wrong," Ichigo growled, his voice cold as steel. "I'm not the same kid who stood helpless that day. I'm not afraid anymore." His reiatsu flared with intensity as his Zanpakutō glowed. "And I'm not fighting for my past. I'm fighting for my present—and my future."
With a roar, Ichigo slashed downward, his blade cutting through the air with incredible force. Grand Fisher jerked Masaki's body in front of him again, but this time, Ichigo didn't hesitate. His strike cleaved through the illusion, shattering the false image of his mother in an explosion of spiritual energy.
Grand Fisher stumbled back, his eyes widening in shock as his ploy failed. The image of Masaki dissolved into nothingness, and Ichigo's gaze bore into the Hollow, burning with fury.
"It's over, Grand Fisher," Ichigo said, his voice steady now. "You can't manipulate me anymore."
For the first time, Grand Fisher's arrogance faltered. He growled, baring his fangs. "You think this changes anything?"
"It changes everything," Ichigo replied, lifting his Zanpakutō high. "I'm sending you back to the hell you crawled out of."
With a final, resounding cry, Ichigo unleashed a powerful Getsuga Tenshō, the wave of energy tearing through the air and crashing into Grand Fisher with unstoppable force. The Arrancar's body disintegrated, consumed by the blast, his mocking laughter fading into nothingness.
As the last remnants of the Hollow vanished, Ichigo stood alone in the prison's eerie silence. His chest heaved, his sword still glowing faintly with residual energy. The image of his mother was gone, but the weight on his heart felt lighter than it had in years.
He sheathed his sword, his gaze softening. "Rest in peace, Mom. I'll protect what matters now. I promise."
As the last remnants of Grand Fisher's energy dissipated, the cold silence of the prison returned. Ichigo stood still, his breath heavy but steady, feeling a strange calm after the storm. His Zanpakutō rested at his side, and for the first time in a long while, he felt as if a part of the past that had haunted him was finally being laid to rest.
But then, something shifted in the air. A gentle warmth began to fill the space, so different from the cold, oppressive darkness that had surrounded him moments ago. It was soft and familiar, like a long-lost memory resurfacing. Ichigo's eyes widened as he felt a presence behind him, a presence that made his heart tighten.
He turned slowly—and there she was.
Masaki Kurosaki, his mother, stood before him, not as a puppet of Grand Fisher or a cruel illusion, but as her true self. Her warm, kind eyes, the ones he remembered so well, gazed at him with love. She was glowing softly, her spirit form almost ethereal, as if the very air around her shimmered with light.
Ichigo's throat tightened. "Mom…"
Masaki smiled gently, her face serene, though her eyes carried the weight of years unspoken. "Ichigo," she whispered, her voice as soft and comforting as it had been when he was a child. "I've waited so long to see you like this… standing strong, without the burden of the past weighing you down."
Ichigo's chest heaved, his mind swirling with emotions. "I thought I'd lost you forever," he said, his voice barely a whisper. "I've spent so long trying to make up for what happened that day… but I never knew if you'd ever… forgive me."
Masaki stepped closer, her hand reaching out as though she wanted to touch him. "There's nothing to forgive, Ichigo. You were never to blame for what happened to me. It was my choice to protect you. And I'd do it again a thousand times if I had to."
Her words sank deep into Ichigo's heart, but there was something else in her eyes—something deeper that she needed to say. Masaki's smile faltered, just slightly, as her gaze grew distant for a moment.
"I need you to understand something, Ichigo," she began softly, her voice taking on a somber tone. "I never wanted my actions to bring you or our family so much pain. What happened to me—my death, it wasn't just an accident or fate. I made choices, choices that were meant to protect you, your sisters, your father... but in doing so, I left you all with scars I never intended."
Ichigo's eyes widened. He had never considered that his mother had carried her burdens, her regrets. "Mom… what are you saying?"
She sighed softly, a sadness in her eyes that mirrored the years of silence she had endured. "I was a Quincy, Ichigo. I knew what it meant to be one, the dangers, the enemies we'd made. I could shield all of you from that part of my life. But because of my choices, because I couldn't tell you or your father everything… it left you vulnerable to things like Grand Fisher. You all suffered because of that."
Ichigo clenched his fists, his heart pounding. "You did what you had to. You protected us! None of this is your fault!"
Masaki's smile returned, softer this time. "Even so, I want you to forgive me—for leaving you, for all the years you carried the weight of my death on your shoulders. Please let go, Ichigo. Don't let my memory or your guilt define you. Your name... 'Ichigo' means 'one who protects,' but you don't have to protect everyone on your own. You've already done so much more than I ever could have asked for."
Tears stung Ichigo's eyes as he listened, his heart heavy and light all at once. His entire life, he had been running toward a sense of redemption, of making up for his mother's death. But hearing her words now, seeing her face, it was as if the chains that had bound him for so long were finally breaking.
"Mom…" Ichigo's voice trembled. "I… I forgive you."
Masaki's smile widened, relief and love shining in her eyes. "Thank you, Ichigo."
Her form shimmered slightly, the light around her growing brighter, but there was no sadness in her expression. She was at peace, finally, and Ichigo could feel it in his soul.
Masaki glanced to the side, her gaze softening even more. "There's one last thing I need to ask of you."
Ichigo blinked, stepping forward instinctively. "What is it?"
She took a deep breath, her spirit form beginning to flicker as she prepared to say her final words. "Tell your father… I'm sorry for leaving him so soon. Tell him that I loved him with all my heart and that I never wanted him to carry the burden alone. Tell him… it's time to let go, just as you have. It's time for him to forgive himself."
Ichigo felt his heart tighten at her words. His father, Isshin, had always been strong on the surface, but Ichigo knew the pain he hid beneath his smile. He knew how much Isshin had carried in silence, the same guilt that had weighed on Ichigo.
"I will, Mom," Ichigo promised, his voice steady, though his heart ached. "I'll tell him."
Masaki's form flickered more intensely now, the light growing brighter as she began to fade. Her eyes never left Ichigo's, even as her body slowly dissolved into shimmering particles of light.
"I'm so proud of you, Ichigo," she whispered, her voice soft but filled with immeasurable love. "Always remember that."
And with that, her spirit faded completely, leaving behind only the faint warmth of her presence in the air.
Ichigo stood alone in the quiet of the prison, but for the first time in years, he felt free. The past had finally released its hold on him. He had his mother's love, her forgiveness, and the strength to move forward.
However, not all of them were successful in their battles.
Orihime's heart raced as she bolted down the darkened hospital hallway, her footsteps echoing in the eerie silence. The dim flicker of fluorescent lights overhead did nothing to illuminate the oppressive gloom around her. She could feel Hammerhead's presence behind her, stalking her like a predator that had already tasted blood. His low growls reverberated off the walls, making it impossible for her to tell just how close he was.
"I found you, little guppy..." Hammerhead's voice slithered through the air like the hiss of a serpent, sending shivers down Orihime's spine. He sounded closer now, the soft, deliberate slapping of his feet against the hospital floor filling her with dread.
Desperate, she glanced around for any sign of escape, her breaths shallow and panicked. She spotted a door slightly ajar up ahead and, without thinking, threw herself through it, slamming it shut behind her. The room she had stumbled into was once a patient ward, now frail and abandoned like the rest of the hospital. The windows were barred, and the only exit was the door she had just entered. Her back pressed against the cold metal, Orihime trembled as she tried to calm her ragged breathing.
"Don't think you can hide from me." Hammerhead's voice slithered through the walls again, this time even closer.
Tears welled in Orihime's eyes, her hands clutching her hairpins tightly. Why wasn't her Shun Shun Rikka responding? Why couldn't she summon them? It felt as though a weight was pressing down on her spirit, preventing her from calling out to the fairies that had always been her protectors. Without them, she felt utterly defenseless.
As the door creaked under the force of Hammerhead's approach, Orihime's thoughts raced. No Ichigo... no Issei... no Tatsuki... Her friends were nowhere to be found, and for the first time, the full, crushing weight of her isolation hit her. She was alone, utterly alone, facing an opponent who was far beyond her ability to handle.
The door splintered inward, and there he was—Hammerhead, looming in the doorway with his hulking, grotesque form filling the frame. His jagged teeth gleamed in the dim light as he sneered down at her. His head swiveled unnaturally, scanning the room as if mocking her attempts to evade him.
"You're not very good at hiding, are you?" he rasped, his voice bubbling with cruel amusement. He took a slow, deliberate step forward, each movement filled with the lazy confidence of a predator playing with its food. "Running from me is pointless. I can smell your fear. It's delicious."
Orihime backed into the corner of the room, her body trembling uncontrollably. Her breath came out in shallow, uneven gasps as Hammerhead closed the distance, his fins flexing as if preparing for the kill.
"You know," he mused, his voice dripping with sadistic pleasure, "I've always liked it when my prey tries to run. It makes the chase more… exhilarating. But now, little guppy, it's time to finish this."
Before she could react, Hammerhead lunged, swiping his massive fin-like arm toward her. Orihime barely managed to dodge, but the force of the swing sent her sprawling to the floor. Pain shot through her body as she collided with the ground, and before she could scramble to her feet, Hammerhead was upon her again.
"You're pathetic," he growled, leaning down to stare into her wide, terrified eyes. His breath was hot and foul, like rotting flesh. "No powers. No friends. Just a scared little girl about to be eaten."
Orihime choked back a sob, her mind racing for any way out. She tried to call on her Shun Shun Rikka again, but nothing came. Despair began to settle in her chest like a heavy stone. The one time she truly needed to protect herself, she had nothing. Her trembling hand reached out as if instinctively trying to grasp at something—anything—to save herself.
Hammerhead's cold, mocking laughter echoed in the room. "You're going to die here, little guppy. All alone. And no one's coming to save you."
With a final, predatory roar, he brought his arm down again. This time, Orihime couldn't dodge. The impact sent her crashing into the wall, a sickening crack echoing through the room as she crumpled to the ground. Pain wracked her entire body, and blood pooled beneath her. She coughed, tasting copper on her lips, her vision blurring from the shock.
Hammerhead approached slowly, savoring the moment as he loomed over her broken form. "You look so small now," he taunted, his voice a low, rumbling growl. "So weak. Just like all the others I've devoured."
Orihime's breath came out in ragged, shallow gasps as she stared up at him, tears streaming down her cheeks. Her strength was fading fast, and she could feel her consciousness slipping away. She was too weak to even cry out for help anymore.
Hammerhead leaned in closer, his teeth glinting dangerously in the dim light. "Say goodbye, little guppy."
In one swift motion, he delivered the final blow. Orihime's body fell limp, her eyes losing their light as her soul began to fade.
Hammerhead sneered, his voice dripping with satisfaction. "One down. Now for the others."
With a final, mocking laugh, Hammerhead turned away, leaving Orihime's lifeless body behind, his footsteps echoing down the darkened halls as he stalked his next prey.
As the dust and debris settled in the ruined hospital, Orihime's lifeless body lay still on the cold ground. The eerie silence was broken only by the faint sounds of the building creaking under the weight of destruction. Through the darkness, a figure appeared—Issei Hyoudou. His eyes were filled with sorrow as he walked slowly towards her, his heart heavy with guilt.
Kneeling beside Orihime, Issei gently reached out to touch her, his hand trembling as it hovered over her still form. "I'm sorry, Orihime," he whispered, his voice choked with emotion. "I wasn't there when you needed me. I wasn't strong enough to save you. But this… this was beyond my control."
His mind raced, remembering all the moments they had shared—their friendship, her kindness, her unwavering support. And now, she was gone, taken by the merciless hands of their enemies. But he couldn't let it end like this. There had to be a way to save her.
As if in response to his desperate thoughts, a portal of radiant, divine light opened before him. The brilliance of the light was overwhelming, but it filled the room with a sense of peace. From within the portal, a figure emerged, her presence as graceful and serene as the light itself. Gabriel, one of the Seraphs and one of Heaven's most powerful beings, stepped forward. Her golden hair glowed, and her pure white robes shimmered as she approached Issei.
"Is this the girl with Twilight Healing?" Gabriel asked softly, her voice like a melody carried on a gentle breeze. Her gaze fell upon Orihime, her expression calm yet filled with compassion.
Issei nodded, his eyes filled with hope. "Yes, this is her. Orihime Inoue." He hesitated for a moment before looking up at Gabriel, determination filling his voice. "Do you remember our deal?"
Gabriel smiled kindly and nodded. "I remember, Issei. I promised that if you brought her to us, she would be saved. In return, Orihime will join the Angel faction, where she will be protected and given a new purpose. Her abilities are a gift from the divine, and we will nurture that gift."
Issei sighed in relief, knowing that Orihime would be given a second chance. "Thank you, Gabriel," he said, bowing his head in gratitude. "I couldn't bear the thought of losing her forever. She's suffered so much, and it's not fair that it ends like this."
Gabriel knelt beside Orihime's body, her hand glowing with divine energy as she gently placed it over Orihime's heart. "Her time in this world is not over," she whispered. "There is still a great purpose for her, one that will bring light into the darkness."
As Gabriel's healing magic flowed into Orihime, the divine light enveloped her body. Slowly, her wounds began to close, her breathing returned, and life began to stir within her once more. But something was different. Orihime's spirit was being reborn in a new form, one that would forever tie her to the Angelic faction.
"She will be reborn as our Ace," Gabriel said, her voice resonating with power. "And she will carry the strength of Heaven within her."
As Orihime's transformation was completed, her eyes fluttered open, her body glowing with the same divine light that had saved her. She rose from the ground, and behind her, a pair of angelic wings unfurled. But instead of the usual white feathers, her wings shimmered with golden light—brilliant, radiant, and unlike any Angel before her.
Issei's eyes widened in awe at the sight. "Her wings… they're golden," he whispered.
Gabriel smiled warmly. "It's a rare and blessed form. Her soul is pure, and her gift of healing is exceptional. The golden wings symbolize her unique place among the Angels."
Issei took a step back, overwhelmed by the beauty and power emanating from Orihime. But even as he marveled at her rebirth, a thought crossed his mind. "Gabriel," he asked softly, "Orihime had an older brother, Sora. He passed away years ago… Is he… up there, in Heaven?"
Gabriel's smile grew even gentler. "Yes, Sora Inoue's soul has found peace in Heaven. If she wishes, Orihime will be reunited with her brother. Their bond transcends life and death."
Issei's heart swelled with emotion. "That's all she ever wanted—to see him again, to know that he was at peace."
Gabriel stood, her divine presence still glowing as she looked at Issei with understanding. "She will be reunited with him soon. But first, she must adjust to her new life. Orihime will serve as one of Heaven's greatest protectors, and in time, she will come to understand the true purpose of her abilities."
Orihime, now standing tall with her golden wings spread wide, looked at Issei with a mixture of confusion and understanding. Her memories of death and pain were still fresh, but the warmth of divine love and the hope of a new future filled her heart.
"Issei…" Orihime whispered, her voice trembling as she reached out to him.
Issei smiled warmly at her. "You're safe now, Orihime. You're going to be okay. And you'll see Sora again."
Tears welled in Orihime's eyes, but this time, they were tears of relief, not sorrow. "Thank you," she whispered, her wings shimmering as they caught the light. "Thank you for saving me."
Issei nodded, feeling a weight lift from his shoulders. He had kept his promise.
Issei's smile faltered slightly as he gazed at Orihime, her golden wings still glowing softly in the divine light. He could see the relief and gratitude in her eyes, but there was a sadness in his own. He knew what he had to do, and it wasn't going to be easy. He took a deep breath, gently placing a hand on her shoulder.
"Orihime… I'm sorry," he whispered, his voice tinged with regret.
Before she could respond, Issei swiftly struck a precise point on her neck, knocking her unconscious. Her body went limp, and he caught her before she could fall, gently lowering her to the ground. For a moment, he just stood there, looking down at her peaceful face, knowing this would be the last time she'd ever look at him with kindness in her eyes.
"I have to do this," he murmured to himself, trying to steel his resolve. "It's better this way."
He turned to Gabriel, who had been watching silently, her expression understanding yet solemn. "Gabriel," Issei began, "I need you to erase her memories of me. Every moment we shared, every day we saw each other, every conversation, everything. I don't want her to remember me at all."
Gabriel's calm eyes met his, and she nodded slowly. "I understand, Issei. But… are you sure? You've loved her, protected her. Are you certain this is what you want?"
Issei closed his eyes, clenching his fists at his sides. "It has to be this way. What I'm going to do after the war… she wouldn't be able to look at me the same way. She'd hate me. It's better if she starts fresh, with no memories of me. She can still remember her other friends… and her brother. But me? I'm just a part of her past she doesn't need anymore."
Gabriel nodded once more, her hand gently hovering over Orihime's forehead. "I will honor your request, Issei. She will not remember you, but her memories of her friends and family will remain intact. She will still know her purpose and her connection to the Angel faction."
A soft light emanated from Gabriel's hand as she began to weave her magic, gently erasing Orihime's memories of Issei. Each moment, each interaction was carefully removed, leaving her with no recollection of the boy who had saved her life more than once.
As the light dimmed, Gabriel stepped back, her task complete. She looked at Issei with a mixture of empathy and curiosity. "You're making a great sacrifice, Issei. Few would have the strength to do what you've done."
Issei gave a weak smile, but it didn't reach his eyes. "It's not about strength. It's about protecting her. She deserves a life free from the darkness I'm walking into." He glanced down at Orihime one last time, then turned away, his heart heavy. "She can start over without the burden."
Gabriel's voice was soft as she spoke. "I hope you find peace in your choice, Issei. And I hope, someday, you can forgive yourself."
Issei shook his head slightly. "Peace isn't in the cards for me. Not after what I'm going to do."
Without another word, Issei began to walk away, his mind already preparing for the dark path he had chosen. As he left the ruins of the hospital behind, he mentally apologized to Orihime one last time.
"I'm sorry, Orihime. But it's better this way. You'll be safe, and you'll never have to look at me with disgust or hatred. This way, you can have a future… while I deal with my future."
With that final thought, Issei vanished into the shadows, leaving behind the girl he had saved and loved but could never see again. Orihime, now an angel with golden wings, would wake to a new life, unaware of the sacrifice that had been made to give her that chance.
Now lets move to Rukia Kuchki.
Rukia's body was bruised and bloodied as she struggled to stand against the familiar face in front of her—the face of Kaien Shiba, her former mentor and comrade. But Rukia knew, deep down, that this was not the man she once knew. This was Aaroniero Arruruerie, an Arrancar who had taken on Kaien's form, wielding his face, memories, and personality like a weapon to torment her. Every strike felt personal, and every taunt sliced deeper than any wound. The emotional pain was as suffocating as the physical agony.
"What's wrong, Rukia? You used to fight better than this!" the Arrancar mocked, his voice an eerie replica of Kaien's. The hollow grin on his face twisted the memory of her former friend into something grotesque, a cruel mockery of the man she had once admired.
Rukia's breath hitched as she raised her sword, trembling with exhaustion. Her spiritual energy was nearly depleted, her movements sluggish. She knew she couldn't keep this up much longer. But she had to. She had to stop this thing that wore Kaien's face.
Aaroniero smiled darkly, sensing her weakening spirit. "You're done, Rukia. I think it's time to end this."
Before Rukia could react, he surged forward, his blade arcing through the air, ready to land the fatal blow. Rukia closed her eyes, bracing herself for the inevitable. But then, at the very last moment, something unexpected happened.
A voice echoed through the room, disembodied yet commanding. "Spare her."
Aaroniero's blade halted mid-swing, just inches from Rukia's throat. His face contorted with frustration and confusion, as though he was grappling with a voice that only he could hear. "What? No! I've earned this! I'll finish her now!" he snarled, speaking to the unseen presence.
Rukia, barely conscious, could only watch in a haze as the Arrancar seemed to argue with himself—or with someone else entirely.
"Enough," the voice commanded again, this time more forcefully. "You've played with her long enough. Don't be a fool. Knock her out and leave. You would have lost if you kept toying with her."
Aaroniero growled, his grip tightening on his weapon as he wrestled with the command. "Tch. Fine." His voice dripped with resentment, but it was clear he had no choice. He glared down at Rukia, frustrated, and denied the satisfaction of killing her. "You're lucky today, Rukia. But don't think this is mercy."
With a swift movement, Aaroniero struck Rukia on the back of her head, knocking her unconscious in an instant. Her body collapsed to the ground, limp and motionless. He loomed over her for a moment longer, his expression shifting from rage to something more calculated.
A slow smile crept across his face. "But before I go… there's no reason for you to remember any of this, is there?" he mused darkly. With a malicious grin, Aaroniero leaned down, his hand hovering over Rukia's forehead. A faint glow began to form around his fingers as he prepared to erase any memory of their battle from her mind. The memory of his true identity, his powers, and even his existence would be nothing but a blank spot in her consciousness.
"Goodbye, Rukia," he whispered, watching as the light shimmered for a moment before fading completely, leaving Rukia in peaceful oblivion.
Satisfied, Aaroniero stood up and looked around, a strange glint in his eyes as his body began to shift and warp. His form elongated, becoming more feminine, and curves began to appear as the transformation took hold. His skin softened, taking on a lighter, creamier hue. The body was no longer that of Kaien Shiba but of a voluptuous woman with a strong and alluring figure. Her dark blue hair cascaded down her back, her eyes gleaming with the predatory intelligence of an Arrancar.
She examined her new form, running her hands over the curves of her body with a satisfied smirk. "This one… should be more to his liking," she purred, admiring her reflection in a nearby shard of glass. Her voice had changed, sultry and feminine, a stark contrast to the earlier, guttural tones.
The new form was that of Kalawarner, a Fallen Angel whose personality was just as twisted as her colleagues when her Master faced them when they approached him in Karakura and tried to 'recruit him' like those foolish Sternritters. Kalawarner had been consumed; her memories, her abilities, and even her body were now under Aaroniero's control. Her voluptuous form was perfect, exactly the type that would appeal to her Master. Aaroniero—now in Kalawarner's skin—laughed softly to herself.
"The original owner of this body was so rotten, so full of arrogance. I suppose that makes it easier for me to have taken over," she mused, stretching her arms and relishing the feeling of power coursing through her new form. "But at least she was useful enough to provide me with this… exquisite appearance."
She chuckled darkly to herself, wondering if her Master would approve of this new transformation. The thought amused her greatly as she strode confidently down the hallway, leaving the unconscious Rukia behind. The air around her shimmered with faint energy as she disappeared into the shadows, her mind already focused on her next mission.
Her Master would be pleased. After all, she had spared the Soul Reaper, as ordered, but she had also ensured that Rukia would remember nothing of her true identity or powers. It was a perfect balance of obedience and cunning.
And as for the new form? Well, her Master would find out soon enough.
And now with Tatsuki and Uryu.
Tatsuki's transformation was fueled by rage, and her Sacred Gear—The Boosted Gear—began to take over her body. Her emerald green eyes glowed with fierce intensity, and the crimson energy enveloping her skin pulsated as claws and fangs sharpened. The air around her vibrated with raw, primal energy. Uryu, still methodically firing arrows into the horde of zombified humans, glanced at her, sensing the shift in her aura.
"Tatsuki... focus!" Uryu called out, a note of concern in his voice. He knew the dangers of letting the Sacred Gear take too much control, specifically the Boosted Gear, after learning about the other transformations of both it and the Boosted Gear's rival, the Divine Dividing.
But Tatsuki's focus was now entirely on Numb Chandelier. Her anger was palpable as she glared at the grotesque Hollow. Numb Chandelier cackled in delight, her tentacles writhing around her as she savored the chaos she was causing.
"Yes, that's it!" Numb Chandelier sneered, her mocking tone dripping with malice. 'Let that anger consume you! It's only a matter of time before you lose yourself completely. Then you'll be no different than my lovely pets here!'
Tatsuki growled, baring her newly formed fangs. "I won't let you control me like them!"
[Boost X 5]
Tatsuki roared as she charged forward, her claws slashing through the air as she aimed to tear through Numb Chandelier's sickening form.
But just as Tatsuki lunged towards her prey, a new presence made itself known.
A sudden gust of reiatsu hit the battlefield as Hammerhead emerged from the shadows. His towering figure cast a sinister silhouette against the flickering light of the crumbling base. His hammer-shaped head and shark-like grin sent chills down their spines.
"Need some help, Chandelier?" Hammerhead asked, his voice low and rumbling, filled with amusement. "You're taking your sweet time with these weaklings."
Uryu raised his bow, keeping his aim locked on Hammerhead, knowing that a coordinated attack from both Hollows would be disastrous. Tatsuki, now fully embracing the power of her Sacred Gear, was breathing heavily, her animalistic growl not fading as she locked eyes with Hammerhead.
Numb Chandelier smirked, lazily waving one of her massive tentacles. "Oh, Hammerhead, you know how I like to play with my food. But don't worry, I'm almost done here. In fact…" She turned her gaze back to Tatsuki and Uryu, her voice suddenly dripping with venom. "Why don't I show you what's become of your little friend?"
With a wave of her tentacles, Numb Chandelier conjured an image that sent a chill through both Tatsuki and Uryu. There, displayed in horrifying clarity, was Orihime's lifeless body. Her once warm and kind eyes were now dull, her body limp and drained of the life that had once radiated from her.
Tatsuki's breath caught in her throat. "Orihime…?" Her voice trembled with shock, disbelief warring with the fury that still coursed through her veins. Uryu's usual calm facade cracked, his eyes widening as the full weight of the image hit him.
Numb Chandelier's laughter echoed through the ruined base, filling the air with sickening glee. "Oh, did I forget to mention? Your little healer didn't make it out of her encounter." She grinned, malicious glee lighting up her monstrous features. "Now, what should I do with her? Should I turn her into one of my puppets? Or perhaps she'd make a lovely addition to my army as a zombie?"
Tatsuki's scream of rage shattered the air, her power surging even higher as she hurled herself at Numb Chandelier with reckless abandon. Her claws tore into the tentacles, but Numb Chandelier easily parried the blows with her other limbs, toying with Tatsuki as though she were nothing more than a helpless insect.
Hammerhead chuckled darkly, enjoying the show. "Playing with their emotions? I like your style," he said, stepping forward to join the battle.
Before he could intervene, however, Numb Chandelier shot him a sharp look. "I don't need your help. This is my fight." She snarled, though her tone held a hint of prideful arrogance.
"Besides, I don't think they'll last much longer anyway. Look at her—" She motioned to Tatsuki, whose wild attacks were becoming more erratic as she tried to break free of the tentacles binding her being now. "She's losing control. If I keep this up, she'll burn herself out."
Uryu, keeping a distance, saw the reckless ferocity in Tatsuki's movements and realized Numb Chandelier's strategy. Tatsuki was being provoked into overextending herself, and if this continued, she would exhaust her strength before the real battle had even begun.
"Don't let her manipulate you!" Uryu shouted, his arrows cutting through the waves of zombies approaching him. "Tatsuki, you need to focus! Orihime wouldn't want you to lose yourself like this!"
But Tatsuki could barely hear him. Orihime's dead body was all she could see, all she could think about. The fiery red of her Sacred Gear's energy flared dangerously, threatening to consume her completely.
Numb Chandelier laughed once more, clearly relishing the sight of Tatsuki's inner battle. "What a shame," she cooed mockingly. "You're so close to breaking, Tatsuki. How deliciously tragic. Ahahaha!"
Tatsuki and Uryu fought desperately against the swarm of zombified humans, but the relentless pressure from the Hollow, Numb Chandelier, weighed heavily on them. Tatsuki, her knuckles turned white as she struggled to summon her Sacred Gear's full power, felt the anger bubbling inside her as the Hollow mocked them from her lofty position, propped up on her massive lavender tentacles.
"Poor Orihime, so helpless without her precious friends to protect her!" Numb Chandelier jeered, her shrill voice grating on Tatsuki's nerves.
The Hollow's eyes gleamed with sadistic pleasure as she waved her tentacles lazily. "She didn't even put up a fight. She just stood there like the useless coward she's always been, waiting for someone else to save her. However, I suppose anyone who helps her ends up either hurt or dead because of her. Just ask her brother, Ichigo, or even that Hyoudou boy. Ahahah!"
Tatsuki's hands trembled with fury as her emerald green eyes began to take on a more reptilian appearance. She could feel the Boosted Gear reacting to her emotions and liked the power as she was going to make this bitch pay as Orihime's corpse, which was displayed cruelly by the Hollow; it was an image that shook her to her core.
Her best friend was gone—just like that.
"She didn't even get to say goodbye, did she?" Numb Chandelier continued, her voice dripping with venom. "I think it's fitting, don't you? The weak are always the first to fall. It's just a shame you didn't see it happen, Tatsuki. Maybe then you'd understand just how useless your friend really was."
Tatsuki clenched her fists so hard she felt her nails dig into her palms, drawing blood. Her body glowed a fierce crimson red, the energy of the Boosted Gear flaring out uncontrollably.
She growled, her voice more beastly with every second. "Shut up..."
At the same time, Hammerhead lunged toward Uryu with deadly precision, his massive hammer-shaped head crashing into the ground where Uryu had been standing moments before. The Quincy barely dodged, firing arrows in rapid succession at Hammerhead, but the Arrancar's tough skin made it difficult to land a fatal blow.
"You're not fast enough, Quincy!" Hammerhead roared, swiping his massive claws at Uryu. The two clashed, Uryu keeping his distance as best he could, but Hammerhead's relentless assault was slowly breaking through his defenses.
As Hammerhead attacked, he glanced back at Numb Chandelier, who continued her taunts, entirely focused on breaking Tatsuki's spirit.
"It must have been so pathetic, watching your friend die without lifting a finger to help her!" Numb Chandelier cooed, her eyes narrowing as she leaned closer to Tatsuki, her main tentacles swaying in anticipation. "And you know what's worse? She knew how worthless she was. That's why she didn't even bother fighting back. She just let it happen, like the coward she was."
Tatsuki's breathing grew heavier, and the crimson aura around her intensified. Her claws extended further, her fangs sharpening as the dragon inside her began to take over. A low growl rumbled from her throat as flames flickered from her mouth, the transformation pushing her closer to becoming a Dragonoid.
Uryu, in the midst of his battle with Hammerhead, could see the change in Tatsuki. "Tatsuki, don't give in!" he shouted, firing another volley of arrows at Hammerhead, forcing the Arrancar to temporarily back off.
But Tatsuki's mind was consumed by rage, Numb Chandelier's words cutting deeper with each insult.
"And now you're just as useless and weak as she was!" Numb Chandelier cackled, raising one of her massive tentacles as if to finish Tatsuki off. "Do you want to end up just like her, Tatsuki? Dead, forgotten, and worthless?"
That was the final straw.
With a roar that shook the very air around them, Tatsuki's body erupted in a surge of crimson energy. Her dragon eyes blazed with fury, and her claws extended even further. Fire spewed from her mouth as she screamed, her voice filled with primal rage.
SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP!" Tatsuki yelled as the ground beneath her cracked and trembled as her aura exploded outward, decimating the army of zombified humans in a single, terrifying wave.
The sheer force of her power sent shockwaves through the area, knocking both Hammerhead and Uryu off balance. Numb Chandelier's smug expression faltered, replaced by one of shock and fear as she stared at the transformation unfolding before her.
As Tatsuki's power surged, a haunting, echoing chant began to resonate in the air. A certain armor appeared around her body, and she then began to speak.
"I, who am about to awaken…"
{It's started. The time has finally come.}
Uryu's eyes widened, knowing what this meant. The Juggernaut Drive had initiated.
"I am the Heavenly Dragon who has stolen the principles of domination from God
{It was always like that, no matter what.}
{That's not right; it was like that every time. Always and forever.}
Numb Chandelier's eyes widened in terror as the chant continued, the crimson energy swirling violently around Tatsuki, growing more and more unstable. This was no longer just the power of the Boosted Gear—this was the terrifying potential of a human pushed beyond their limits, about to unleash a force that even the Hollows feared.
"No… this can't be happening!" Numb Chandelier whispered, her tentacles trembling as she backed away. "This… this is impossible!"
"I mock at the "infinite," and I fret over the "dream."
{The one the world seeks. The one the world rejects.}
"There's no way. This kid is the one who has the Boosted Gear?" Hammerhead said to himself as he recalled another memory of a blonde-haired, tanned woman with water surrounding her. She had a crimson crown on her head, but her eyes were the same.
"I shall become the Red Dragon of Domination."
{It was always power. It was always love.}
Tatsuki's wings opened as another voice, unlike the others, shouted.
{No matter the path, you always choose the path of ruin.}
Hammerhead, sensing the danger, turned toward Uryu with a grim expression. "We're leaving. Now."
Uryu, still stunned by the sheer force of Tatsuki's power, barely managed to respond. "What?"
"If you stay here, you're dead," Hammerhead growled, fear creeping into his usually cocky demeanor. "That girl's power… it's beyond anything we can handle. She's about to become something unstoppable."
''And I shall drown you to the depths of the crimson purgatory!''
Tatsuki's voice roared in unison with the chant as the final words echoed across the battlefield, her body fully transformed into a Dragonoid, her power radiating like a star about to go supernova.
"JUGGERNAUT DRIVE!"
With a final surge of energy, Tatsuki's aura erupted, and the Juggernaut Drive fully awakened. The sheer intensity of her power was enough to cause Numb Chandelier to scream in terror, her once smug and mocking demeanor completely shattered.
"No! Stay back! Y-You monster!"
But it was too late. Tatsuki, now consumed by the full force of the Juggernaut Drive, let out a roar as her power swept across the battlefield, obliterating everything in its path. Numb Chandelier's tentacles were torn apart in the blast, and her body was sent flying, her screams echoing into the distance as she was thrown out of sight.
Tatsuki was now on her as she released a powerful breath blast that disintegrated Chandelier's entire being.
Hammerhead, already retreating, glanced back one last time, his face pale. "Told you," he muttered before vanishing into the shadows.
Uryu, barely managing to stay on his feet, could only watch in stunned silence as Tatsuki's transformation continued, her overwhelming power reshaping the landscape around them. His heart raced as he realized just how close they had come to death.
"Tatsuki…" he whispered, unsure of whether the friend he knew was even still in there.
Uryu headed towards Tatsuki, who was continuing her rampage in the city. Chad, Urahara, Yoruichi, Soifon, and Ichigo were trying to stop Tatsuki.
"This will be troublesome," Hammerhead said as he watched the battle until a portal opened behind him. Issei smiled as he walked out and looked at Tatsuki before speaking.
Issei stood calmly at the edge of the destruction, his expression unreadable as he watched the chaos unfold before him. His crimson eyes scanned the battlefield, landing on Tatsuki, who was still roaring and rampaging in her fully awakened Juggernaut Drive. The sheer power she wielded was astonishing yet entirely expected.
"I figured this would happen eventually," Issei said with a sigh, his voice carrying an unsettling calm. He turned to Hammerhead, who was nervously watching Tatsuki tear through the city.
"Did any of the others survive?" Issei asked, his tone casual, as though inquiring about the weather.
Hammerhead shook his head, still in disbelief at the sheer carnage. "No… none of them made it. Not even Numb Chandelier." His voice quivered as he added, "But this girl… she's something else. What do we do about her, Master?"
Issei didn't seem bothered by the news. He chuckled as though the answer was obvious. With a snap of his fingers, a pair of binoculars and a bucket of popcorn appeared in his hands. "We enjoy the show, Hammerhead."
Hammerhead blinked, confused. "Enjoy the… what do you mean?"
Issei raised the binoculars to his eyes, scanning the battlefield where Tatsuki's dragon form continued to obliterate anything in her path. His smile widened as he leaned back casually, popping a piece of popcorn into his mouth. "Just watch. Things are about to get a whole lot more interesting."
Before Hammerhead could question further, a sudden surge of energy split the air, and a new presence made itself known. Descending from the sky in a blinding flash of white light, the unmistakable form of the White Dragon Emperor appeared—his Juggernaut Drive fully activated, his power rivaling Tatsuki's own.
The White Dragon Emperor landed with a force that shook the earth beneath him, his silver wings shimmering as he confronted the rampaging Tatsuki. His armor gleamed with a cold, predatory light, and his eyes locked onto hers with deadly intent.
Tatsuki snarled, her fiery aura flaring as she charged at him with reckless abandon. But the White Dragon Emperor was faster. With a single, devastating blow, he knocked Tatsuki back, sending her crashing into the remains of a building. The force of the impact sent shockwaves through the city, leaving a massive crater in its wake.
Tatsuki growled and rose to her feet, her armor cracking under the pressure of her power. She lunged again, her claws extended, but the White Dragon Emperor was relentless. He countered each of her strikes with brutal efficiency, slowly chipping away at her Juggernaut Drive armor.
Issei watched through his binoculars, still munching on popcorn. "Ah, there it is. The beginning of the end."
Hammerhead could hardly believe what he was seeing. Tatsuki, in all her monstrous power, was being outmatched by the White Dragon Emperor. Each strike from him caused more of her armor to shatter until, finally, with a resounding crack, her armor disintegrated completely.
Tatsuki collapsed in the center of the crater, her Dragonoid form gone, leaving her human body frail and drained. She lay on the ground, breathing heavily, her strength completely spent.
The White Dragon Emperor stood over her, his cold eyes watching her for a moment before he deactivated his Juggernaut Drive and disappeared in a flash of white light, leaving the battlefield eerily silent.
Issei lowered the binoculars, still grinning. "Well, that was entertaining."
Hammerhead turned to Issei, still unsure of what had just transpired. "Issei-sama… what now?"
Issei stood up, dusting off his hands. "Now? We wait. Tatsuki will recover, but the real question is whether she'll remember the lesson."
In the crater, Tatsuki stirred, weakly pushing herself up. Her breath was shallow, her body trembling from the exertion. Tears filled her eyes as she whispered, "I'm… I'm sorry… Orihime. I failed you."
She collapsed again, her consciousness fading as the weight of her guilt and failure pressed down on her.
Issei watched her for a moment, then turned away. "Let's go, Hammerhead. We've seen enough for today."
As they walked through the wreckage of the battlefield, Issei's smile never wavered. The pieces were falling into place, just as he had predicted. And soon, the real game would begin.
'After all, now that Ukitake is safe and the threat is no more, Soifon and Rukia must report what they've found, which will make the old man and the council of pussies fear them. No doubt Rukia will be given the death sentence since they'll definitely execute her for giving her powers to a human despite being critically injured. They fear what they cannot control and will play dirty if need be; after all, the Soul Society definitely doesn't care about the balance of souls as they say.' Issei said in his mind while walking away with Hammerhead, one of the Espada that served under him.
Later, at Urahara Shoten.
Tatsuki awoke to the familiar scent of incense and the faint hum of wind chimes. Her eyes blinked open, adjusting to the dim light of the room, and she realized she was lying on a futon in Urahara Shoten. Her body felt heavy as if every muscle had been pushed to its breaking point. She groaned, trying to sit up, only to feel a sharp pain in her chest.
"What… happened to me?" she mumbled, looking around.
Yoruichi was seated in the corner, her arms crossed and a somber expression on her face. "You gave us quite a scare," she said, standing up and walking over to Tatsuki. "You lost control of the Juggernaut Drive. It's a miracle you're still alive."
Tatsuki blinked, the memories slowly flooding back—her rampage, the power surge, the White Dragon Emperor… It all felt like a blur. "Did we win? What happened to the city?"
Yoruichi nodded, but her voice hesitated. "We won. The city was saved, but not by us." She glanced over her shoulder as footsteps approached.
Tatsuki's confusion deepened until she heard a new voice, cool and confident. "You were saved, but not by your strength."
Tatsuki looked up to see Vali Lucifer, the White Dragon Emperor, stepping into the room. His silver hair shimmered in the light, and his piercing eyes locked onto Tatsuki with a mixture of arrogance and indifference.
"You," Tatsuki said, recognizing him immediately. "You stopped me."
Vali smirked, crossing his arms over his chest. "My name is Vali Lucifer, the White Dragon Emperor, and I saved you from yourself. You were on the verge of burning out your life force completely."
Tatsuki's eyes widened. "What do you mean?"
Vali's smirk faded, replaced by a serious expression. "The Juggernaut Drive isn't something that can be used without consequences, especially by someone like you who doesn't fully understand its power. Every time you use it, you drain a significant portion of your lifespan. If you had continued, you would have died within a few years—if not sooner during your little rampage."
Tatsuki's heart sank. "But… how do I recover? How can I fix this?"
Vali's cold gaze didn't falter. "There's only one way to restore lost life force—Senjutsu."
Yoruichi groaned, rubbing the back of her neck. "Of course, Senjutsu. There's always a catch." She looked at Tatsuki with a sympathetic smile. "Unfortunately, the only ones who can help you with that are the Youkai Faction."
Tatsuki raised an eyebrow, still trying to process everything. "The Youkai Faction?"
Yoruichi sighed, clearly not thrilled with the idea. "They're a group of supernatural beings who specialize in controlling life energy and natural forces. They also work with the Shinto Gods, who are terrifying on their own but as a team. They are far more powerful than even Urahara and I. They can teach you how to restore your life force through Senjutsu, but… they're not exactly on friendly terms with me and Urahara."
Tatsuki frowned. "Why? What happened?"
Yoruichi waved her hand dismissively. "Let's just say we caused a bit of trouble there in the past, which led to us being… banned from their territory."
Tatsuki groaned, running a hand through her hair. "Great. So now I have to go to a faction that hates you to save myself?"
"Pretty much," Yoruichi said with a shrug.
Before Tatsuki could respond, a soft, divine light filled the room. Everyone turned as Gabriel, the Seraph of Heaven, appeared in her radiant, angelic form. And with her, standing beside her with a gentle smile, was Orihime.
"Orihime!" Tatsuki gasped, her eyes widening in disbelief.
Orihime looked different—her aura radiated with an ethereal glow, and behind her, shimmering golden wings spread out gracefully. But her smile was as warm and kind as ever. "Tatsuki!" Orihime rushed forward, kneeling beside her friend.
"You're… you're alive?" Tatsuki asked, still in shock.
Orihime nodded, tears of joy in her eyes. "Yes, I'm alive, but… things have changed." She glanced at Gabriel, who nodded, allowing Orihime to explain.
"The only way to save me was to reincarnate me as an Angel," Orihime said softly. "Gabriel saved me, and now I'm part of the Angel faction."
Tatsuki's heart swelled with a mixture of relief and sorrow. "So… you're not the same anymore?"
Orihime shook her head gently. "I'm still me, Tatsuki. I still remember everyone—Ichigo, Uryu, Chad, and you. But I also have new responsibilities now. I'm Lady Gabriel's Ace."
Tatsuki stared at Orihime's golden wings, understanding dawning on her. "You've changed… but you're still here."
Orihime smiled brightly, taking Tatsuki's hand. "Yes. And no matter what, I'm still your friend."
Tatsuki's eyes filled with tears, but she quickly wiped them away. "I thought I failed you… I thought…"
"You didn't fail me," Orihime said softly. "You saved everyone in your way. And now, you have a chance to heal and move forward."
Vali, standing off to the side, raised an eyebrow. "If you can get the Youkai to agree, that is."
Tatsuki nodded, her resolve strengthening. "Then I'll go. I'll do whatever it takes to fix this."
Yoruichi smirked. "Looks like we're heading into hostile territory. Sounds like fun."
As the weight of everything settled in, Tatsuki glanced at Orihime again, feeling a sense of peace for the first time in what felt like forever. Orihime was alive, and no matter what had changed, their bond was still strong.
"Let's do this," Tatsuki said with a determined grin.
Later, at Karakura Cemetery.
The sky was overcast, casting a somber, muted light over the cemetery. Ichigo stood quietly at his mother's grave, hands in his pockets, his expression calm but contemplative. He hadn't visited in a while, not since the chaos of recent events, and now, with things finally settling down, he could afford a moment of peace to pay his respects.
As he stood there, he heard the soft crunch of footsteps behind him. Turning slightly, he saw Issei approaching, holding two bottles of drink in his hands.
"Mind if I join you?" Issei asked, his voice casual yet respectful. He lifted the drinks slightly with a small smile. "I brought some apple beer for us. We could celebrate her peaceful rest together. Don't worry; it's non-alcoholic."
Ichigo blinked, momentarily caught off guard by the gesture, but nodded. "Yeah, sure. Thanks." He stepped aside slightly, giving Issei room to stand beside him.
Issei placed one of the bottles in front of Masaki Kurosaki's gravestone, offering it as a token of respect, before popping open the other and handing it to Ichigo.
They stood in silence for a few moments, each lost in their thoughts. The wind rustled through the trees, and the atmosphere was peaceful.
After taking a swig from the bottle, Ichigo glanced at Issei. "I never got the chance to ask… What happened to you while we were trapped in our prison? You disappeared for a while."
Issei sighed, his usually cheerful demeanor slightly dimmed as he leaned against a nearby tree. "Yeah, about that… I had some things to take care of." He hesitated for a second before continuing, his voice low. "I found Ginjo."
Ichigo's eyes widened slightly at the name. "Ginjo? You found him?"
"Yeah," Issei said with a grim nod. "I found him, and I killed him."
Ichigo's grip on the bottle tightened. "What?"
Issei's face remained neutral, but his eyes betrayed a flicker of something deeper. "He crossed too many lines, and after everything he did, there was no other way. I had to end it."
Ichigo fell silent, letting the weight of Issei's words sink in. Ginjo had been a manipulator, a man who betrayed him, and maybe more. It wasn't entirely shocking that someone would take matters into their own hands. But there was something else in Issei's tone, something he wasn't saying.
Issei continued, carefully avoiding any mention of seeing his father during his absence. "With Ginjo gone, Xcution is finished. It's disbanded. There's hardly anyone left, and those who are… well, they won't be a problem anymore."
A moment passed before Issei looked at Ichigo again, his eyes softening. "What about Rukia and the others? I heard about some stuff, but… how's everyone holding up?"
Ichigo sighed deeply, the weight of everything falling onto his shoulders once more. "Rukia's recovering. She had a rough fight, but she'll be fine. But… Tatsuki and Orihime…" He trailed off, the memories of what happened flashing in his mind.
Issei's brow furrowed in concern. "What happened to them?"
"Tatsuki lost control of her power. She went into Juggernaut Drive, and it nearly killed her. She drained a huge chunk of her life force in the process." Ichigo's face darkened. "She's going to need to learn Senjutsu to recover. Yoruichi's looking into it, but it's complicated."
Issei nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "And Orihime?"
Ichigo's expression softened, a mixture of sadness and confusion crossing his face. "She… she doesn't remember you. At least, not completely."
Issei blinked. "What do you mean?"
"Gabriel appeared," Ichigo explained. "She reincarnated Orihime as an Angel to save her life, but in doing so, Orihime lost some of her memories. Specifically, her memories of you."
Issei looked down for a moment, his expression unreadable. After a long pause, he smiled faintly. "I see. Honestly… that's probably for the best."
Ichigo raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"
"I mean, I don't mind," Issei said quietly. "I'm just glad she's okay. Orihime deserves a fresh start, especially after everything she's been through. If that means she doesn't remember me, then so be it. I'd rather her have a chance at peace than hold onto memories that'll bring her more pain."
Ichigo watched him closely, sensing that there was more to Issei's words. But he didn't press. Issei had always been the type to carry his burdens quietly without burdening others.
After a moment, Issei turned to face him more fully. "Actually, I wanted to tell you something. I'm leaving for the summer. I'm going to see my biological father and spend some time with him over the summer. There are some things I need to figure out."
Ichigo nodded slowly, understanding. "You sure that's what you want?"
Issei smiled, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "Yeah. I think it's time. I'll be back, though. Can't leave you to handle all the crazy stuff on your own, right?"
Ichigo chuckled softly. "Right."
They stood there in silence for a few more moments, the weight of everything unsaid lingering in the air. Finally, Issei placed his bottle down, offering one last bow of respect to Ichigo's mother before turning to leave.
"Take care of yourself, Ichigo," Issei said as he walked away. "And tell Tatsuki and the others I'll be rooting for them."
"I will," Ichigo replied, watching his friend disappear into the distance.
"Heh. Even after all this, Issei is still caring about his friends." Ichigo said, recalling what his mother said to him before smiling a real one.
"Maybe a vacation wouldn't be so bad. I can still train and spend some time with my sisters." Ichigo said, thinking that Kyoto would look wonderful this summer.
Issei smiled to himself as he walked on his web again before looking at Soifon, chatting with Ukitake, who was unharmed during Rukia's battle with her opponent. Soifon left Rukia and Ukitake alone before stepping out of Urahara Shoten and walking a bit of a distance.
Issei followed her until he saw her vanish and appear behind him, and he countered her stab attempt with his bare hand.
"I'm glad you okay, Soifon."
"It's really thanks to you. I would've died had it not been for you saving me from the Menos."
Issei kept his grip firm as he gently lowered Soifon's blade, meeting her gaze with a light chuckle. "You would've lived. You're not the type to go down that easily."
Soifon narrowed her eyes, but there was a hint of acknowledgment in them. "Perhaps," she admitted, pulling her blade back and sheathing it. "But you made things easier. I owe you that much."
"Don't mention it," Issei said, shrugging casually. He glanced in the direction of Ukitake and Rukia, the weight of the situation settling in. "But what now? Are you going to take Rukia in? I mean, she did break one of the major rules of the Soul Society… giving her powers to a human."
Soifon sighed, her stoic mask slipping for a moment. "Yes. The law is clear on this. Even though the circumstances forced her hand, she still broke the rule." She paused, folding her arms as she considered her next words carefully. "Ukitake… he'll have to report it. All of it. Rukia, Ichigo, and everyone involved."
Issei raised an eyebrow. "And me?"
"Ukitake doesn't know about you," Soifon said quietly. "And I intend to keep it that way. The fewer people who know of your existence, the better. For now, you're under the radar. But that won't last if the Soul Society catches wind of who you really are."
Issei's eyes darkened for a moment, understanding the implication. "So, they'll see my friends as a threat?"
Soifon nodded slowly, her expression grim. "Yes. Once the Soul Society learns what kind of power you wield, they'll try to control it. You, your friends… anyone with abilities they can't monitor. But before they get to that, they'll come for Rukia and me first." She glanced back at Ukitake and Rukia, her expression hardening with resolve. "Rukia will face imprisonment. It's the only way to keep her alive under the current system."
"And what about you?" Issei asked, his voice soft but curious.
Soifon's lips pressed into a thin line. "I'll face punishment as well. I'm a Captain, and I knowingly let all of this happen. There's no avoiding the consequences. I'll be judged by the Central 46. But…" Soifon turned around and smiled at him.
"I won't let them come near you. I owe you that much."
Issei nodded, his respect for her growing. "You're putting yourself on the line for someone who you knew for only a short while."
Soifon's expression softened for a brief moment, a rare glimpse of her more vulnerable side. "We all have our duties. This is mine."
Issei glanced back at Rukia, deep in conversation with Ukitake. The weight of everything settled heavily between them. "Well, I appreciate it, Soifon," he said, his tone sincere. "Stay safe when you return home."
Soifon allowed herself a small, almost invisible smile. "I wouldn't expect anything less." She turned to leave but paused, looking back at him one last time. "Just be ready for when they do come, Issei. The Soul Society doesn't take lightly to those with powers that aren't under their gaze."
Issei chuckled, though his eyes were serious. "I'll keep that in mind."
With a final nod, Soifon disappeared into the shadows, leaving Issei standing alone. He watched her vanish before letting out a small sigh. "It would seem that it is time to get my team ready."
He glanced up at the sky, the weight of the impending conflict looming over him like a storm.
But for now, there was still time.
Time to prepare.
It was time to protect the people he cared about.
And time to set his plans into motion.
Issei then took out his phone and tapped a number on it before speaking to the one who picked it up.
"Hammerhead. Call my Espada and tell them that we will have a meeting in an hour."
[Yes, Issei-sama.]
"Excellent," Issei said before ending the call. He summoned a Gargantua and walked into it, smiling at the text and image he had just sent to his phone.
[Missed us?] Bambietta asked as she sent a picture of not just her but the other Femritters as well, with As Nodt behind them and Giselle looking like she was going to bite his head.
"Hehe. I missed those girls," Issei said before leaving for his base, where the plan will soon begin.
Operation: God of Chaos puts Fake Gods in place.
It's a mouthful, but it's going to be an entertaining mission.
Scene!
Here we go. Now that the Soul Society Arc will appear later, the group will go their separate ways to get stronger or heal.
Tatsuki and Chad will be in Kyoto to learn Senjutsu and recover Tatsuki's lost life force.
Ichigo will be training to master his Bankai while making time for his sisters.
Issei will be preparing to sow chaos in the Soul Society.
And the Soul Society will begin Rukia's execution.
Next Time: Summer Vacation Plans