Hello, everyone. ThunderReborn from 2025. This chapter has originally been edited by TM11 when this chapter was originally released. On April 1st, 2020, this chapter was edited again by Darklord331. Finally, in April 2025, this chapter was edited again by my current beta reader, Waroyer123. Thank you and I hope you enjoy the story.
Bleach is owned by Tite Kubo, TV Tokyo, Viz Media, Studio Pierrot... and other people
All other references of characters or abilities are not mine.
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"Hello." -Normal talking
"Hello." –Ichigo's thoughts.
"Hello." – Zanpakutō speaking
"Hello." – Zanpakutō thoughts.
Kon'nichiwa [Translation of Hello]
Chapter 18:
Ichigo stood, watching the Quincies make their way to the Reioukyuu. The other Shinigami soon gathered around him.
"Ichigo!" Rukia called out. "We need to come up with a plan before the Quincies reach the Reioukyuu."
"Don't worry. This is all part of the Soul King's plan," Ichigo reassured her.
"What do you mean?" Rukia asked, her brow furrowed with concern. Ichigo turned to the other Shinigami standing nearby.
"How many Shinigami did the Royal Guard take?" he asked.
"Five," Renji replied.
"Who?" Ichigo pressed.
"Uh… you, me, Rukia, Kuchiki-Taichō, and…" Renji hesitated, realization dawning.
"Yamamoto," Ichigo finished. "Now then, everything is going according to the Soul King's plan," he continued. Everyone understood that Yūhabahha was heading to the Reioukyuu as anticipated. "For the next phase, I need to speak with Ukitake privately," Ichigo said.
Ukitake stepped forward, and Ichigo led him to a nearby clearing with a bench. Once there, Ichigo cast a series of privacy kidō to shield their conversation from prying ears.
"So, Ichigo-kun, what do you need to discuss?" Ukitake inquired, his tone casual but curious.
"I need to talk to Mimihagi," Ichigo said.
"WHAT!?" Ukitake exclaimed, his surprise evident. "What do you mean, Ichigo-kun?" he asked, attempting to mask his alarm.
"Ukitake, look into my eyes," Ichigo commanded. Confusion crossed Ukitake's face as he peered into Ichigo's familiar brown irises. With a subtle shift, Ichigo's eyes transformed, revealing black sclera and pupils with swirling white dots like a galaxy. Ukitake's body trembled uncontrollably as black reishi surged from his mouth, taking the shape of an arm with a clenched fist and a single, large eye on the back.
"Hello, new King of Souls," Mimihagi greeted.
"Hello, Mimihagi," Ichigo replied, maintaining his composure.
"So, it's time to reunite the fragments from the homunculus?" Mimihagi asked.
"Somewhat," Ichigo replied. "The old King of Souls has lost his position, and Amaterasu has given it to me."
"You are aware that the Left Hand and the Heart are with Yūhabahha," Mimihagi cautioned.
"I am now," Ichigo acknowledged. "Also, if you leave your host, what happens?" he inquired.
"His illness will resume and likely kill him," Mimihagi explained.
"Is there any way to stop it?" Ichigo pressed.
"Unfortunately, it was something I was born with," Ukitake admitted.
"Explain," Ichigo urged.
"When I was three, I developed a rare lung disease. Many doctors abandoned me, believing I couldn't be cured. In desperation, my parents took me to Mimihagi's shrine, praying for help. Somehow, Mimihagi appeared and took my lungs. In exchange, I became his living host, allowing me to survive and become a Shinigami," Ukitake recounted.
"Mimihagi, will you need to be with me when I fully claim the position?" Ichigo asked.
"Well, it's likely for the best, especially if you manage to obtain the Left Hand and the Heart," Mimihagi responded.
"I see," Ichigo said, contemplating. "Mimihagi, are there any ways to heal Ukitake and allow him to live?" he asked.
"Kurosaki-kun, you don't—" Ukitake started.
"I do. I'll need you and the surviving Captains to help rebuild Soul Society," Ichigo insisted. Suddenly, an audacious idea sparked in his mind. "Mimihagi, what happens to Ukitake if you leave his body?"
"If I leave, he will continue to function without the body part that was offered," Mimihagi replied.
"So, if you leave Ukitake's body, he'll survive without lungs," Ichigo clarified.
"Correct," Mimihagi confirmed.
"Ukitake, I need a sample of your blood, body size, and tissue type," Ichigo instructed.
"What?" Ukitake asked, bewildered.
"I need that information to find a compatible set of lungs for you," Ichigo explained.
"A new set of lungs? The World of the Living has progressed that far?" Ukitake exclaimed.
"Indeed. This is just one of the changes I plan to make—helping Soul Society stay aware of developments in the World of the Living," Ichigo said firmly.
"I…" Ukitake stammered, still processing Ichigo's request.
"I will bring Unohana-taichō into this later," Ichigo mentioned casually.
"Um… Unohana-taichō is no longer with us," Ukitake said softly.
"I see… who is running the Fourth Division?" Ichigo asked.
"The current captain is Kotetsu Isane," Ukitake replied.
"After this war is over, I'll bring Isane into this discussion to help gather the necessary samples," Ichigo stated.
"Yes, please," Ukitake agreed, grateful for the thought. At that moment, Mimihagi decided the conversation was complete and slipped back into Ukitake's body. Ichigo released the privacy kidō, and he and Ukitake returned to the main group, where the others were anxiously trying to gather information about the Royal Guard and any way to reach the Reioukyuu.
Ichigo glanced at his watch. "Looks like it's showtime," he said, a determined grin spreading across his face.
"Showtime?" Rukia asked, puzzled.
"Yep. Time to wrap this war up," Ichigo affirmed.
"But Ichigo, how are you going to get to Reioukyuu?" Renji asked concern etched on his features.
"Simple," Ichigo replied as the group drew closer, brainstorming their options. "I fly," he declared. "Come, Kisara!" he shouted as a massive white dragon materialized beside him, letting out a mighty roar. Ichigo leaped onto Kisara's head, and with her master aboard, the dragon roared again and soared upward.
As Ichigo approached Reioukyuu, he noticed a massive cage-like structure below. Curious, he decided to investigate—he was certain it hadn't been there when he first descended from Reioukyuu. Signaling for Kisara to descend, Ichigo jumped off her back, landing at the base of the wooden structure. The journey had taken a toll on Kisara, who had grown weary from flying through multiple barriers.
"Take a rest, Kisara," Ichigo murmured, allowing her to retreat to his mindscape.
In the cage formed from the twisted branches of a giant tree, Ichigo's gaze fell upon the bodies of Tenjirō Kirinji, Kirio Hikifune, Ōetsu Nimaiya, and Senjumaru Shutara. Each bore a bullet wound—a single, merciless blow from the same unknown enemy. Aware of the threat, Ichigo thought grimly, I'll have to be wary of a Sternritter with some type of gun.
Leaving the cage, he summoned Valiona to complete the journey to Reioukyuu.
Scene Change: Reioukyuu
Arriving at Reioukyuu, Ichigo dismounted Valiona.
"Do you want me to come with you?" Valiona asked.
"No need," Ichigo replied, giving her a brief nod of thanks.
"Understood." With a parting nod, Valiona retreated to Ichigo's mindscape. Scanning his surroundings, Ichigo quickly noticed signs of battle at the entrance of the Great Reioukyuu. His eyes narrowed as he approached the fallen figure of Hyōsube Ichibē, lying lifeless before the grand gates. Ichigo steeled himself and entered.
Scene Change: Great Reioukyuu
The moment Ichigo entered the hall, a massive wave of fire erupted toward him. Dodging swiftly, he looked up to see Genryūsai locked in combat with Yūhabahha. Without hesitation, Ichigo used shunpō to intercept Yūhabahha's next strike, slashing across his chest.
"Gah!" Yūhabahha staggered, eyes widening as he saw Ichigo. "Ah, my wayward son," he sneered.
"Yūhabahha," Ichigo acknowledged coldly. "Genryūsai, are you all right?" he asked, glancing at the elder Shinigami.
"I'm fine," Genryūsai assured him, though his voice was strained.
Yūhabahha's smirk returned. "I didn't expect you so soon, but no matter. I arranged for a fitting opponent to keep you occupied." With a flourish, he opened his cloak, and a figure stepped forward, kneeling before him.
"My Shield, rise and defend me," Yūhabahha commanded.
"Yes, your Majesty." The figure rose, and Ichigo's heart clenched as he recognized her. She had fair skin, long, wavy brown hair falling past her shoulders and wore a distinct Quincy uniform—a white hooded cloak, thigh-length trench coat, knee-high boots, and black stockings. She held a large shield shaped like a Quincy cross.
"Kaa-san?" Ichigo's voice wavered as he recognized his mother, Masaki. But this wasn't the mother he remembered. Her once vibrant brown eyes were now dull, filled with anguish and resignation.
Ignoring him, Masaki charged forward, slamming her shield into him. Ichigo barely managed to raise his arms in defense, absorbing the worst of the impact.
"Kaa-san! Why are you fighting for Yūhabahha?" he shouted.
"I did it for you!" Masaki cried, swinging her shield again. Ichigo dodged as she continued, "When I was captured, I saw His Majesty's power firsthand. I was terrified! And then he told me you were planning to face him, and I feared you might die!" Her voice trembled. "His Majesty promised me that if he won, you, Yuzu, Karin, and Isshin would be spared."
"Kaa-san!" Ichigo yelled. "Yūhabahha is using you! He doesn't care about you!"
"I don't care!" she yelled back, swinging her shield with renewed force. "I'm willing to sacrifice myself if it means you'll all survive this war!"
Ichigo's heart twisted painfully. "I know… You already did that for me once," he said softly, recalling her sacrifice ten years ago. At his words, Masaki faltered, her shield lowering slightly. Ichigo seized the moment, summoning the Chains of Hell.
"ICHIGO!" Masaki's eyes widened as she saw the familiar rusted chains. The Chains of Hell flew towards her. She raised her shield as she tried to block the chains, but the Chains of Hell changed directions, moving around her shield. They wrapped around her, binding her in place.
"Kaa-san," Ichigo whispered as he approached. Masaki struggled desperately against the Chains of Hell.
"I love you, but I have to do this to keep you safe," he said, opening a portal to Hell.
"ICHIGO! ICHIGO!" she screamed, her voice filled with despair as the Chains of Hell dragged her back into Hell. A tear rolled down Ichigo's face as he watched her disappear.
A slow clap echoed through the room, breaking Ichigo's trance. He looked up to see Yūhabahha clapping mockingly, his face alight with a cruel satisfaction.
"Well done, my Son of Darkness. You're the final obstacle between me and the Soul King." He raised a blade, his gaze cold and calculating. "I cannot see the future that involves you," he admitted, "but you will lose, and I will become the new Soul King."
Ignoring his taunts, Ichigo gripped Zangetsu tightly, his resolve hardening.
"Getsuga Tenshō!" he yelled, unleashing a powerful blast toward Yūhabahha. The Quincy dodged, and the blast struck a nearby column. Ichigo followed up with another Getsuga Tenshō, but Yūhabahha summoned a reishi sword, deflecting the attack before transforming it into his Sankt Bogen and firing a large Heilig Pfeil. Ichigo dodged the arrows as they tore through the air.
"Mugen Getsuga Tenshō!" Ichigo cried, releasing a barrage of attacks from above. Yūhabahha summoned his Blut Vene Anhaben, forming a defensive shield that absorbed the energy from each strike, expanding ominously as it fed off the Getsuga Tenshō.
Ichigo observed closely. "Blut Vene Anhaben is absorbing my attacks. But what if it faces Hollow reiatsu? Testing his theory, Ichigo launched a series of Cero blasts. The Ceros struck the shield without being absorbed, dissipating only after their energy was spent.
"So it can't absorb my Hollow reiatsu," Ichigo noted to himself. Seizing the opportunity, he unleashed another Mugen Getsuga Tenshō to keep Yūhabahha occupied and took a deep breath.
"Zangetsu," he called, summoning his inner strength for the final confrontation.
"Yes, King?" Zangetsu replied.
"Can I combine a Cero and a Getsuga Tenshō?" Ichigo asked.
Zangetsu paused, considering the request. "Normally, an attack like that would require an equal amount of Hollow and Shinigami power, or the fusion would become unstable and explode," he said. "But since I am the manifestation of both, I might be able to help make it work."
"Fair enough," Ichigo said, his voice steady. He began to charge a Getsuga Tenshō with the Zangetsu in his right hand, while simultaneously gathering energy for a Cero with the Zangetsu in his left. As the Mugen Getsuga Tenshō dissipated, Ichigo thrust the Zangetsu in his left hand forward, unleashing a crimson Cero, and immediately followed by swinging the Zangetsu in his right hand downward, releasing the fully charged Getsuga Tenshō.
"Getsuga Luna Negra [Moon Fang Black Moon]!" Ichigo roared.
The crimson Cero and the black-and-red Getsuga Tenshō merged, creating a powerful attack that resembled a massive Cero, with the swirling Getsuga Tenshō acting like fins along its sides (1). The newly named Getsuga Luna Negra collided with Yhwach's Blut Vene Anhaben barrier. Yhwach watched the attack with mild curiosity, initially dismissing it when the barrier seemed to hold firm. But after a few moments, cracks began to spiderweb across the surface of the Blut Vene Anhaben from the relentless pressure of Ichigo's attack.
By the time Yhwach realized the danger, it was too late. The Getsuga Luna Negra shattered the barrier and struck Yhwach's left shoulder, triggering a violent explosion. As the dust settled, Yhwach's left shoulder was revealed to be badly burned.
"Impressive," Yūhabahha remarked, a mixture of pain and interest flashing in his eyes as he observed the injury. "It has been some time since anyone has managed to wound me," he said, raising his hand to touch the blood on his shoulder. With a detached expression, he looked at the blood. "Powers strong enough to breach my Blut Vene Anhaben should not exist," he murmured, summoning five orbs of light that began to circle Ichigo.
"Sankt Altar!" Yūhabahha called out and beams shot from the orbs, forming a large Quincy symbol around Ichigo, who quickly felt his energy start to drain away.
Ichigo frowned. "What's going on? Is Sankt Altar draining my energy?"
"Sankt Altar is a technique where it drains the reiatsu of the victim and gives it to Yūhabahha," Yhwach, still within Ichigo, informed him. Ichigo's eyes narrowed thoughtfully.
"Wait. Is the Sankt Altar draining me of all of my reiatsu?" Ichigo asked.
"No, It's draining only your Shinigami and Quincy reiatsu," Yhwach said, giving Ichigo an idea.
"Yhwach, Yūhabahha should still be affected by Hollow reiatsu right?" Ichigo asked.
"Yes," Yhwach replied.
"If it's draining only my Shinigami and Quincy reiatsu then that means I can still access my Hollow reiastu," Ichigo looked up. "Zangetsu, ready yourself for a flood of Hollow reiatsu."
"On it, King!" Zangetsu responded.
Yhwach could feel his reiatsu reserves gradually replenishing, thanks to the power of the Sankt Altar. However, he noticed that Ichigo's reiatsu was trickling in much slower than before. "It must be because the Hollow reiatsu is being filtered out," Yhwach mused. Suddenly, he sensed a massive surge of energy pouring in through the Sankt Altar. "That's more like it!" he thought with satisfaction.
But his confidence was short-lived. Moments later, a sense of unease washed over him. "Something's wrong... I can feel Sankt Altar filling my reserves, but this energy doesn't feel right. It feels... Hollow." His eyes widened as he realized what he was absorbing—it wasn't Shinigami nor Quincy reiatsu, It was pure Hollow reiatsu. Yhwach's gaze snapped to Ichigo, still trapped and bound within Sankt Altar, but he was smiling.
A sudden, violent cough wracked Yhwach's body, and he instinctively raised a hand to his mouth. As he pulled it away, he saw his own blood staining his palm. Panicking, Yhwach hastily dismissed Sankt Altar and began trying to purge the Hollow reiatsu that was poisoning him. In that instant, Ichigo was freed. With a swift shunpō, he closed the distance between them.
"Getsuga Jūjishō!" Ichigo shouted, releasing a cross-shaped blast directly at Yhwach. Unprepared, Yhwach could only raise his hands in a desperate attempt to block the surprise attack. When the dust settled, his hands were charred and severely burned. Still reeling from the Hollow reiatsu's corruption and the painful burns, Yhwach was caught off guard as Ichigo seized the opportunity and bound him tightly with the Chains of Hell.
Before Yūhabahha could recover, Ichigo restrained him with the Chains of Hell.
"What—!" Yūhabahha exclaimed, struggling against the chains.
A voice echoed from the darkness. "Hello, son," said Amaterasu, appearing before Yūhabahha with an air of cold contempt.
"WHO ARE YOU? YOU ARE NOT MY MOTHER!" Yūhabahha protested.
"It seems that in your many lives, you've forgotten," Amaterasu said with disdain, snapping her fingers. A beam of light struck Yūhabahha, and recognition dawned on his face as he recalled his true origins.
"M-m-mother..." he stammered in shock.
"Because I always knew my brother wasn't fit to rule," Yhwach replied calmly.
"That's something I've only just learned myself," Amaterasu admitted.
"Then what are you planning to do about it? He's standing right there," Yhwach said, nodding towards the homunculus posing as the Soul King. Amaterasu gave Yhwach a strange look for a moment, then it dawned on her what he was implying.
"Oh, I forgot you didn't know," she said.
"Didn't know what?" Yhwach asked, his eyes narrowing.
"That the being you call the 'Soul King' isn't actually the Soul King," Amaterasu revealed.
"WHAT!?" Yhwach shouted, his composure breaking.
"Ichigo and I confronted your brother," Amaterasu explained. "He created a homunculus to act in his place while he disappeared—off somewhere to pursue his own agenda."
"I understand..." Yhwach said slowly, his expression shifting. "So, who is the new Soul King, then?"
"I am," Ichigo answered, revealing his eyes, which now carried the unmistakable mark of the Soul King's power.
"I see," Yhwach said quietly, lowering his gaze. "Then I concede defeat and am prepared to face Mother's judgment."
Amaterasu's eyes hardened as she summoned an energy orb. "As punishment for your crimes, you will be cursed to reincarnate endlessly with no memories of your past lives. Wherever you go, misfortune and death will follow. Should you ever regain your memories, you will die within three days, without exception." She raised her hand, prepared to release the orb.
"Wait, Okaa-san," Ichigo interrupted.
"Yes, Ichigo?" Amaterasu asked, her voice calm but holding a note of finality.
"There's one last thing I need to do to Yūhabahha before you deliver your divine punishment," Ichigo replied, walking over to the defeated figure. Placing his hand on Yūhabahha's forehead, Ichigo spoke firmly, "I, Kurosaki Ichigo, in the name of Yhwach, reclaim the schrift bestowed upon you." Yūhabahha's body spasmed as a small soul fragment emerged from his mouth and flew into Ichigo's ring.
"Schrift A acquired," Yhwach's voice echoed in Ichigo's mind. "And it seems you've also managed to absorb all of Yūhabahha's memories."
"Great, more power and memories," Ichigo thought wryly.
"Are you finished, Ichigo?" Amaterasu asked, her hand still hovering with the divine punishment she had summoned for Yūhabahha.
"Go ahead, Okaa-san," Ichigo said, stepping aside. Amaterasu cast the energy at Yūhabahha, and his body glowed brightly before disintegrating, leaving Ichigo and Amaterasu alone.
"Thank you, Ichigo," Amaterasu said.
"No problem," Ichigo replied, watching as she vanished into the ether. He turned and walked over to where Genryūsai lay unconscious, giving him a gentle shake.
"Wha…" Genryūsai murmured, slowly regaining consciousness.
"Yo," Ichigo greeted him.
"Did we win?" Genryūsai asked, his voice weary but hopeful.
"We did," Ichigo confirmed, helping him to his feet.
Genryūsai looked toward the empty throne of the Soul King. "Where… where is the Soul King?" he asked, frowning.
Ichigo sighed. "Let's sit down. I'll explain everything." Conjuring two chairs out of reiatsu, Ichigo gestured for Genryūsai to sit. He then recounted everything that had happened since his first arrival in Greater Reioukyuu.
Genryūsai sat in silence, absorbing the revelation. "I see…," he said finally, realizing that Soul Society would be forced into a new era with a new King of Souls.
"Genryūsai," Ichigo said, drawing his attention. "It's time to deal with the remaining Sternritters."
Genryūsai nodded. "Do you know where they are?"
"They're just outside," Ichigo replied, just as a loud crash echoed through the room. A tall, muscular man with light shoulder-length hair, adorned in a winged helmet and white cloak with a black Hagal rune on the left side, strode in, his expression fierce.
"WHERE IS HIS MAJESTY!" the man roared.
"Dead," Ichigo replied evenly.
"LIES!" the man shouted, charging with his sword drawn. With a sigh, Ichigo stepped forward and punched him hard in the gut, causing him to collapse. Ichigo then summoned the Chains of Hell, binding the man's arms and legs as he struggled.
"I've finished sorting through Yūhabahha's memories," Yhwach informed him.
"Thank you," Ichigo replied. Using the newly gained knowledge, he recognized the man. "Gerard Valkyrie," he said. "Thanks for coming to return something that belongs to me." Ichigo placed his hand on Gerard's forehead and intoned, "I, Kurosaki Ichigo, in the name of Yhwach, reclaim the schrift bestowed upon you." Gerard's body shook as a soul fragment emerged and entered Ichigo's ring.
"Schrift M acquired," Yhwach confirmed.
"Now that that's out of the way…" Ichigo said, driving his fist into Gerard's chest. Gerard gasped as Ichigo pulled out a strange heart—a gold and violet organ that began to rise from Ichigo's hand, attaching to him with glowing threads. As it merged with Ichigo, he felt a surge of power.
"Did anything change?" Ichigo asked aloud.
"A great deal," Hōgyoku responded.
"We'll discuss it later," Kyōka added.
"All right," Ichigo replied, sending Gerard Valkyrie's soul to Hell.
"Are you okay, Ichigo?" Genryūsai asked, watching him closely.
"I'm fine," Ichigo assured him. Together, they exited Greater Reioukyuu to face the remaining Sternritters.
Standing before them was Jugram Haschwalth, who stepped forward and greeted Ichigo with a solemn expression. "Hello, Kurosaki Ichigo."
Ichigo, tired of the prolonged battles, quickly summoned the Chains of Hell and immobilized all the Sternritters except Uryū. He then walked up to Lille Barro, placed his hand on Lille's forehead, and repeated the ritual. "I, Kurosaki Ichigo, in the name of Yhwach, reclaim the schrift bestowed upon you." Lille's body convulsed as a soul fragment emerged and joined Ichigo's ring.
"Schrift X acquired," Yhwach reported.
Ichigo moved on to Askin Nakk Le Vaar, repeating the process. "I, Kurosaki Ichigo, in the name of Yhwach, reclaim the schrift bestowed upon you." Askin's body shuddered, releasing a soul fragment.
"Schrift D acquired," Yhwach reported.
Finally, Ichigo approached Pernida Parnkgjas, whose massive form hissed. "Hello, King," Pernida spat.
"Hello, Lefty," Ichigo replied, tearing away Pernida's cloak to reveal its grotesque form: an enormous hand with an eye in its palm. Ichigo pressed his hand to Pernida's eye, repeating the incantation. Pernida's body convulsed, and another fragment joined Ichigo's growing power.
"Schrift C acquired," Yhwach reported as Ichigo drove his left hand into Pernida's eye.
"GAH!" Pernida cried, his body sprouting dark, twisting veins. "NO! I don't want to go back! I won't be bound there forever!" he yelled, thrashing desperately as tears streaked down his face. Ignoring Pernida's pleas, Ichigo watched as his opponent's body was gradually absorbed, leaving only his Sternritter robes behind.
Ichigo moved to Jugram Haschwalth and placed a steady hand on his head. "I, Kurosaki Ichigo, in the name of Yhwach, reclaim the schrift bestowed upon you." Jugram's body began to convulse, releasing a small soul fragment that joined Ichigo's ring.
"Schrift B acquired," Yhwach confirmed. Without hesitation, Ichigo opened a portal to Hell and cast everyone through it except Uryū.
"Uryū, you probably have a lot of questions," Ichigo said, summoning three chairs as they sat down together. Uryū nodded, waiting.
"The reason I didn't send you to Hell is simple," Ichigo began.
"And that reason is...?" Uryū prompted.
"Yūhabahha knew you were going to betray him," Ichigo explained.
"What?" Uryū replied, shocked.
"Yes, he foresaw you helping me stop him in some way. He couldn't see exactly what, but he knew enough," Ichigo said.
"What did I do?" Uryū asked, frowning.
"I don't know," Ichigo admitted.
"What do you mean?"
"I don't know because Yūhabahha didn't know," Ichigo clarified.
"But I thought he could see the future," Uryū said, puzzled.
"True, but he couldn't see me in that vision," Ichigo explained.
"I see… then why didn't he kill me?"
"Because he had other plans. Yūhabahha intended to use his connection with you to take over your body upon his death, forcing me to kill you. If he succeeded, he would've fused your body with his original one," Ichigo said.
Uryū fell silent, processing the revelation. "I understand," he finally said.
"Ishida," Ichigo continued, gaining his friend's attention. "I need to take your schrift," he said, placing his hand on Uryū's forehead. "I, Kurosaki Ichigo, in the name of Yhwach, reclaim the schrift bestowed upon you." Uryū's body shuddered as a soul fragment was drawn into Ichigo's ring.
"Schrift A acquired," Yhwach reported.
"Will this prevent me from going to Hell?" Uryū asked, recalling the fate of the other Quincies.
"Unfortunately, it won't," Ichigo replied.
"What?" Uryū asked, his voice tinged with worry as Ichigo opened another portal to Hell. "Is this… for me?" he asked anxiously.
Ichigo shook his head. "Calm down, Uryū. This isn't for you." He placed his hand in the center of the portal, closed his eyes, and moments later, his mother, Masaki, was pulled from Hell. Though she was wrapped in chains, she had no Chain of Hell binding her to it.
"Kaa-san," Ichigo murmured.
"Ichigo…" Masaki said, relief in her voice.
"It's over," he said, embracing her as she began to cry on his shoulder.
After a moment, Ichigo pulled back. "Kaa-san, I need to explain something important," he said gently, and as she held him, he told both Masaki and Uryū everything.
"You remember that Quincy techniques usually destroy souls, right?" Ichigo asked Uryū.
"Yes, I remember," Uryū replied.
"That's one of the actions that results in automatic passage to Hell," Ichigo explained.
"I see…" Uryū said quietly, coming to terms with his fate.
"But," Ichigo continued, "if I take your powers for the rest of your life, you'll be spared from Hell."
"Wait… what do you mean by 'remainder of my life'?" Uryū asked.
"Once you die, you'll be able to fuel your Quincy powers with reiatsu instead of reishi."
"What would that do?" Uryū asked.
"By using reiatsu, you purify souls instead of destroying them," Ichigo replied.
Uryū nodded, resolved. "I accept," he said.
"Then, Ichigo, what about me?" Masaki asked.
"We'll discuss that privately," Ichigo replied.
"All right," Masaki agreed.
"When we return to Karakura Town, I'll explain the situation to you and Father. Afterward, I'll strip your powers," Ichigo said.
"Okay," Uryū replied.
"Let's go," Ichigo said, standing up.
"Where to?" Uryū asked.
"We need to clean up the mess left by the other Quincies," Ichigo said.
"I see," Uryū said, following.
As Ichigo, Uryū, and Masaki stepped out of Greater Reioukyuu, Genryūsai awaited them, having allowed the group their private discussion.
"Are you two ready to go?" Genryūsai asked.
"We are," Ichigo replied.
The three stepped out into the open, where the remaining Gotei 13 stood, battle-ready. Tension filled the air.
"Yo," Ichigo greeted, attempting to break the tension.
"Stand aside, Kurosaki. You've got two Quincies behind you," Suì-Fēng barked, suspicion in her eyes.
"Suì-Fēng-Fukutaicho, stand down," Genryūsai commanded, his voice firm and unyielding.
"But… Sōtaichō," Suì-Fēng protested. Genryūsai's stern gaze silenced her.
"As you wish, Sōtaichō," Suì-Fēng murmured.
"So, the battle is over," Ukitake said.
"It is," Ichigo replied, moving forward with a calm resolve. "Come, we have a Soul Society to rebuild." He opened a Garganta and stepped inside, followed by Masaki and Uryū. The remaining Shinigami, unsure, looked to Genryūsai for guidance.
"Well, what are you all waiting for?" Genryūsai asked.
"Uh… for your orders," Toshiro replied.
Genryūsai sighed. "Go and meet up with Ichigo," he commanded, entering the Garganta himself.
"Did… did Sōtaichō just call him Ichigo?" Rukia whispered to Renji.
"He did…" Renji replied, frowning. "Something's definitely changed."
"Let's follow them for now," Yoruichi advised, and the group entered the Garganta.
Scene Change: Soul Society / Wandenreich City
Ichigo stepped out of the Garganta and took in the sight. The remnants of Yūhabahha's transformation of Soul Society loomed grimly, untouched and altered. Masaki and Uryū soon joined him.
"Can any of you sense any remaining reiatsu?" Ichigo asked.
"No signs of Shinigami," Kyōka replied.
"Nothing from the Quincies," Yhwach's voice echoed within Ichigo's mind.
"Noth- wait I something," Zangetsu said as he manifested beside Ichigo. "There's a faint reiatsu in that building." Zangetsu gestured toward a massive two-tiered structure with heavy pillars on the lower level and narrow windows above. The complex was surrounded by a formidable barrier, framed by curving tusk-like structures arcing toward each other.
"Got it," Ichigo said, watching Zangetsu fade back into his mindscape. "Uryū, Kaa-san, wait here for a moment," he instructed, then shunpōed toward the building. Inside, he swiftly located the faint reiatsu signature. Recognizing the prisoner through Yūhabahha's memories, he found Tier Harribel bound in chains. Ichigo summoned Kokugatsu, slicing through her restraints and gently laying her down. He cast medical kidō, examining her wounds.
"Ichigo, based on the kidō she's in critical condition and won't last much longer," Kyōka said as she appeared beside him.
"So... I'll need to use another Chaos Piece," Ichigo muttered.
"Yes," Kyōka replied.
Ichigo sighed, recalling his promise to bring Harribel back to her Fracción. He summoned a Knight Chaos Piece and placed it on her chest. As her body absorbed the piece, he sensed her condition improving.
"She's recovering," Ichigo murmured, then lifted Harribel in a bridal carry and returned to Masaki and Uryū. He opened a Garganta leading to Urahara Shōten and stepped through.
Scene Change: Urahara Shōten
On the other side, Ichigo spotted Sung-Sung enjoying tea with Tessai, while Apacci and Mila Rose argued nearby.
"Harribel-sama!" her Fracción cried, surrounding Ichigo.
"Oi! Give me some room," he ordered, and they stepped back. Ichigo gently laid Harribel down beside Nel.
"Tessai, do you have anyone else who can watch over them?" Ichigo asked.
"Jinta and Ururu can manage," Tessai replied. "Why?"
"I need your help in Soul Society," Ichigo said.
"Understood," Tessai replied, leaving to make arrangements. With a moment to spare, Ichigo turned to Mila Rose.
"Mila Rose," he called.
"Yes?" she replied, turning to him.
"This may seem strange, but do you know someone named Franceska Rose?" Ichigo asked.
Mila's eyes widened. Sung-Sung wished she had a camera for Harribel-sama. Mila quickly composed herself.
"How… how do you know that name?" Mila asked.
"I met your sister, and she wants to see you," Ichigo replied.
"But… how? I thought she didn't have reiatsu."
"Let her explain," Ichigo said, dialing Franceska's number. "Franceska, I found Mila. Yes, I'm serious. Where are you? All right, give me a moment." Ichigo hung up and jumped into a Garganta. Moments later, he returned, carrying a woman who resembled Mila Rose.
"Franceska…" Mila whispered.
"Mila…" Franceska replied, and the sisters embraced, shedding tears of joy.
As they reunited, Tessai, Jinta, and Ururu returned.
"Tessai, you ready?" Ichigo asked.
"Yes," Tessai replied, stepping into the Garganta with Ichigo, leaving Masaki and Uryū at Urahara Shōten.
Scene Change: Soul Society / Wandenreich City
Ichigo and Tessai emerged from the Garganta, where the Shinigami awaited.
"Is everyone here?" Ichigo asked.
"We're all present," Genryūsai confirmed.
"Good," Ichigo said, his eyes shifting, revealing a galaxy-like gleam that drew astonished murmurs from those around him. Ignoring their reactions, he summoned his reiatsu, gathering it with focused intent. "Ō no meirei, Jigen Shīru! [King's Order, Dimension Seal!]"
Suddenly in an instant, a surge of Ichigo's reiatsu enveloped the area for less than a second before dissipating.
"What was that?" Genryūsai inquired, bewildered.
"I just cast a special order that the King of Souls can use to seal this dimension," Ichigo explained. "This command locks it down completely; no one can enter or leave anymore."
"King of Souls?" the others echoed in surprise. Ichigo and Genryūsai exchanged exasperated glances.
"Everyone, please take a seat," Ichigo instructed as he summoned a classroom setting. The group complied and settled down, Ichigo taking his place at the front. He began to explain everything: his meeting with Amaterasu, the true identity of the King of Souls, the connection between Yūhabahha and the King of Souls, and the events of the final battle. "So, does everyone understand?" he concluded. The stunned expressions of the Shinigami indicated that their minds were reeling. Genryūsai was the first to find his voice.
"So… what happens now?" he asked.
"Given that Soul Society is mostly destroyed, I've decided to rebuild it from the ground up," Ichigo declared.
"What!?" Genryūsai exclaimed, disbelief evident in his voice.
"Yep," Ichigo confirmed. "I'm going to call on each division, and their respective Taichō will report to me regarding their special duties."
"What if the captain of a division has died?" Tetsuzaemon Iba interjected, standing up.
"Then the next highest-ranking officer will respond," Ichigo replied. Tetsuzaemon nodded and sat back down. Ichigo summoned a notebook and pen. "First Division."
"No special duties," Genryūsai answered.
"Second Division?" Ichigo asked.
"Technically no special duties," Yoruichi replied.
"What do you mean, 'technically'?" Ichigo pressed.
"During my tenure as Taichō, I led both the Onmitsukidō and the Second Division. Over time, those responsibilities became intertwined," Yoruichi clarified.
"I see," Ichigo noted. "Third Division?"
"No special duties," Rōjūrō answered.
"Fourth Division?" Ichigo continued.
"Medical support," Isane stated.
"Fifth Division?" Ichigo asked.
"No special duties," Hirako replied.
"Sixth Division?" Ichigo inquired.
"No special duties," Renji answered. Ichigo glanced at Byakuya, who appeared to be processing the fact that Ichigo was now technically a higher-ranking noble than he was.
"Seventh Division?" Ichigo asked next.
"No special duties," Iba replied.
"Eighth Division?" Ichigo continued.
"No special duties," Kyōraku confirmed.
"Ninth Division?" Ichigo queried.
"Technically no special duties," Kensei said. Ichigo looked up, intrigued.
"What do you mean by that?" Ichigo asked.
"The Ninth Division is usually associated with art and culture, which is why Hisagi ran the Seireitei News Magazine," Kensei explained.
"I see…" Ichigo said, jotting that down. "Tenth Division?"
"No special duties," Toshiro answered.
"Eleventh Division?" Ichigo asked.
"Direct combat," Kenpachi replied.
"So for major issues, we call the Eleventh?" Ichigo clarified.
"Yep!" Kenpachi shouted, grinning widely.
"Twelfth Division?" Ichigo asked.
"Shinigami Research and Development Institute," Kurotsuchi replied.
"That reminds me," Ichigo said, standing up. "Urahara!"
"Yes?" Urahara responded.
"Would you like your old job back?" Ichigo asked.
"Sure," Urahara answered.
"Okay," Ichigo said. Suddenly, a red portal opened behind Kurotsuchi. "Kurotsuchi, for all of your inhumane actions since becoming Captain, I condemn you to Hell," Ichigo declared as chains emerged from the portal, ensnaring Kurotsuchi and dragging him inside. Once the portal closed, Ichigo returned to his seat, unfazed by the stunned expressions around him.
"Thirteenth Division?" Ichigo asked, undeterred.
"No special duties," Ukitake replied.
"Tessai," Ichigo called out.
"Yes?" Tessai responded.
"What was your role in the Kidō Corps?" Ichigo inquired.
"The Kidō Corps maintains all seals in Soul Society, creates new kidō, and operates the Senkaimon," Tessai answered.
"I see," Ichigo said, noting that information. "Since most of you don't have any special duties beyond a few Shinigami in various areas, I will begin assigning specific roles for each Division to manage," Ichigo announced. "First Division, you are now in charge of the Treasury."
"The Treasury?" Genryūsai echoed, surprised.
"Yes. The First Division will manage all finances coming in and out of Soul Society," Ichigo clarified.
"Isn't that typically the job of the citizens?" Genryūsai asked.
"It was, but now it's your responsibility since we won't have any citizens interfering with our work," Ichigo stated firmly.
"What?" Genryūsai responded, his confusion evident.
"Yes. The reason for this is that most of the issues I've dealt with typically involved Central 46, and I aim to eliminate that interference," Ichigo explained.
"I see," Genryūsai replied.
"Moving on, the Second Division will now function as the Onmitsukidō, meaning all members of the Second Division will be part of it," Ichigo announced.
"Excellent! Time to weed out the weak," Yoruichi said with a grin, resembling a cat that had just received a new toy.
"This time, you'll be compensated extra," Ichigo added.
"Really?!" Yoruichi exclaimed, her excitement evident.
"Really," Ichigo confirmed. "Now, for the Third Division, your special duty will be serving as Quartermaster."
"Quartermaster?" Rōjūrō echoed, confused.
"Yes, Quartermaster. You'll be responsible for inventorying all supplies and equipment needed or in the process of acquisition," Ichigo clarified.
"I see…" Rōjūrō replied, starting to understand.
"Anyway, the Fourth Division will continue to serve as Medical Support," Ichigo said.
"Okay," Isane acknowledged.
"Fifth Division, you will oversee the operation of Shin'ō Academy," Ichigo declared.
"Say what?!" Hirako exclaimed, disbelief in his voice.
"You will oversee Shin'ō Academy," Ichigo reiterated.
"NO!" Hirako protested, but Ichigo chose to ignore his despair.
"Sixth Division, you will handle relations with the nobles," Ichigo instructed.
"Understood," Renji replied.
"The Seventh, Eighth, Ninth, and Tenth Divisions will be responsible for providing security in the Rukongai and improving relations with its citizens," Ichigo continued.
"All four of us will be in the Rukongai?" Toshiro asked, surprised.
"Yes. The Seventh Division will oversee the northern Rukongai, the Eighth Division will cover the eastern Rukongai, the Ninth Division will manage the southern Rukongai, and the Tenth Division will take care of the western Rukongai," Ichigo explained.
"Got it," Kyōraku said.
"The Eleventh Division will serve as our first line of defense. If any major incidents arise that the Seventh, Eighth, Ninth, and Tenth Divisions cannot handle, you will be called in to support," Ichigo elaborated.
"Sure," Kenpachi replied nonchalantly.
"The Twelfth Division will continue to operate as the Shinigami Research and Development Institute," Ichigo stated.
"Okay," Urahara confirmed.
"The Thirteenth Division will now focus on International Relations," Ichigo said.
"International?" Ukitake questioned, puzzled.
"Yes, International," Ichigo reiterated. "Given that there are other mystical groups out there, we need to maintain good relations with them so that, in the event of a crisis—like a Quincy invasion—we have allies to assist us. It also helps when accidents occur in foreign territories," he explained.
"Understood," Ukitake replied.
"Lastly, the Kidō Corps will be reinstated and led by Tessai," Ichigo said.
"All right," Tessai acknowledged.
"All fourteen of you will help run this new Soul Society," Ichigo declared.
"What about you?" Genryūsai asked.
"If a tie occurs, I will break it," Ichigo replied.
"I mean respect for the chain of command…" Genryūsai clarified.
"Oh, I'm still above you," Ichigo said. "But don't worry; I won't force you to follow a law if all of you are against it."
"I see," Genryūsai responded, somewhat reassured.
"What will happen to the old nobles and members of Central 46?" Byakuya inquired.
"Those old farts?" Ichigo scoffed. "They're powerless now since Central 46 was established to act as my 'voice' in this government," he explained.
"You're right," Genryūsai agreed, recalling Central 46's original purpose. After all, he had witnessed the King of Souls help create the Rukongai and the Seireitei. Later, the King of Souls established Central 46 as a system of checks and balances for the Gotei 13.
"Now then, you have one year to make these changes," Ichigo said as he stood up.
"Um… Soul King-sama?" Rukia interjected.
"Please, just call me Ichigo. If you need to be formal, call me Ichigo-sama," Ichigo replied.
"Okay… Ichigo-sama, do you want us to destroy the cities?" Rukia asked, noting the current state of the transformed Seireitei.
"Oh. One moment," Ichigo said, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. He began to gather his reiatsu, and in an instant, it surged forth, enveloping everything around him. The buildings began to crumble and then reassemble into traditional Japanese structures. "Better?" Ichigo asked.
All the Shinigami nodded in agreement.
"Now, to give you more time to understand your new roles, you will have one year before I unseal this dimension," Ichigo announced.
"How will that work?" Genryūsai asked.
"When I sealed this dimension, I also adjusted the time ratio between both worlds," Ichigo explained.
"I see," Urahara said, intrigued by this capability.
"Everyone except Urahara and Ukitake, please leave," Ichigo instructed. The others hurried off to their divisions to begin preparations and training. Once they were alone, Ichigo cast a large privacy kidō around himself, Urahara, and Ukitake. "Urahara, could you create a pair of lungs that are compatible with Ukitake's body?" Ichigo asked.
"I can make one from a gigai. Why?" Urahara inquired.
"Because I need one, or else I'll die," Ukitake admitted a hint of urgency in his voice.
"What?" Urahara exclaimed, caught off guard.
"Just get us a pair of lungs that work with Ukitake's body," Ichigo ordered firmly.
"All right, all right," Urahara muttered as he pulled out a compact computer, quickly scanning Ukitake's body. Moments later, a small pill popped out of the machine. Urahara tossed it to the ground, creating a small puff of smoke. As the dust settled, Ichigo, Urahara, and Ukitake could see a gigai that was an exact replica of Ukitake.
"All right, Ukitake, I need you to lie down next to the gigai," Ichigo instructed. With a sigh, Ukitake complied. Ichigo placed a hand on Ukitake's forehead and murmured, "Inemuri." Ukitake immediately fell into a deep sleep. "Now, we'll need to open up his chest," Ichigo said. Urahara drew Benihime from his cane and made a precise incision down Ukitake's chest. Suddenly, a surge of dark reiatsu erupted from the incision, forming into an arm with a clenched fist and a single, glaring eye on the back.
The fist looked poised to strike, but Ichigo intervened. "Mimihagi, stand down," he commanded. The hand paused and turned toward him.
"So, the time has finally come," Mimihagi said.
"It has, Mimihagi. I have gathered the other parts," Ichigo replied.
"You're aware that his body will only have about three minutes before brain damage begins?" Mimihagi warned.
"Urahara, can you complete the procedure in that time?" Ichigo asked.
"I can, but I'll need to use Bankai," Urahara answered.
"All right," Ichigo said, stepping back.
"Nake, Benihime," Urahara said, activating his Shikai. The blade transformed into a sleek, medium-sized sword with a forward-bending hilt, decorated with black wrappings and a crimson tassel at the base. After a pause, Urahara called out, "Bankai: Kannonbiraki Benihime Aratame!" [Modification of the Crimson Princess' Dissection at the Doors of Avalokiteśvara]. A towering, mannequin-like woman with dark braided hair and a revealing robe materialized behind him. "You can begin, Ichigo," Urahara said.
Ichigo placed his hand over Mimihagi's eye, and dark veins appeared on the spirit's form. Slowly, Mimihagi's essence began to dissolve, absorbed into Ichigo's body until the spirit vanished completely.
"Go!" Ichigo said. Urahara sprang into action, widening the incision on Ukitake's chest and matching it on the gigai. He carefully removed the gigai's lungs and placed them in Ukitake's body. Realizing the lungs weren't fully compatible with Ukitake's anatomy, Urahara used his Bankai's unique ability to alter the structure of the lungs, adapting them to Ukitake. Moments later, Ukitake's chest rose and fell, his new lungs functioning perfectly. Urahara finished by suturing the incision and then dismissed his Bankai.
With the procedure complete, Ichigo lowered the kidō barrier. "Urahara, go handle your division and send Rukia to meet me in the Fourth Division," he said. Urahara nodded and disappeared with a flash step. Ichigo lifted Ukitake and carried him to the Fourth Division, where Isane guided him to an empty bed. As he carefully placed Ukitake down, Rukia suddenly burst in.
"ICHIGO!" she shouted.
"Rukia, let's step outside before we continue," Ichigo suggested. She nodded, and they both flash-stepped to the Thirteenth Division's Lieutenant's office.
"Now, Ichigo, what did you just do?" Rukia asked her expression a mix of concern and curiosity.
"Urahara and I just completed an experimental procedure to cure Ukitake of his illness," Ichigo explained.
"Why wasn't this done in the Fourth Division?" Rukia pressed.
"Because the process required certain abilities that Urahara and I would prefer to keep confidential," Ichigo replied.
"I see…" Rukia said, though her expression hinted she still had questions.
Ichigo was about to take his leave when Rukia called out again. "Ichigo… just how powerful are you now?"
After a pause, Ichigo replied, "… Very powerful."
"But… just how powerful?" Rukia persisted, her voice barely above a whisper.
Ichigo met her gaze briefly, then turned and vanished from the room with a final flash step.
Author's notes:
Look up the Gokaigers Sword and Shot combo. It looks similar to that.