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.
Rosario Vampire is owned by Akihisa Ikeda, Shueisha, Gonzo, and Funimation.
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 24:
Scene Change: Ichigo's Home - Morning
Ichigo woke up at 5 am as usual for his morning training, the quiet morning air brushing against his face. Moka groaned as she rolled out of bed, while Elizabeth remained sound asleep. Ichigo and Moka quickly changed into their running clothes. As they walked downstairs, they found Yuzu and Karin already in their workout gear.
Everyone quickly exchanged their morning greetings to each other.
In no time, they were all geared up and set out for a jog around Kuoh Town. After their run, they returned home, with Yuzu and Moka heading straight for the shower while Ichigo and Karin made their way to the backyard for a sparring session.
"Come on, Karin!" Ichigo called as he effortlessly dodged another of her swift kicks.
"Stop dodging, Ichi-nii!" Karin shouted, frustration in her voice as she aimed a roundhouse kick at him.
"I thought Yhwach told me you've gotten stronger," Ichigo teased, his eyes watching her closely.
"Fine then!" Karin growled, her reiatsu flaring up. Ichigo's gaze sharpened as red lines began to form on her body.
"Is that Blut Arterie?" Ichigo thought, observing her more closely. She attacked again with a flurry of punches and kicks. Her attack speed was much faster than before.
"Does that mean she knows Blut Vene too?" Ichigo wondered as he blocked one of her punches and countered with a quick hammer strike to her chest.
Karin barely managed to withstand the blow, landing hard on the ground. Ichigo noticed she deactivated Blut Arterie before the hit, but didn't seem to activate Blut Vene.
"You have Blut Arterie but not Blut Vene?" Ichigo asked as he offered her a hand.
Karin took it, slowly rising to her feet. "Yeah. Yhwach doesn't know why, but I can only use Blut Arterie. Yuzu can only use Blut Vene."
"Hmm... maybe it's your nature," Ichigo mused, tapping his chin.
"Yeah, that makes sense," Karin agreed, wincing as she adjusted her stance.
"Karin, are you okay?" Ichigo asked, noticing her discomfort.
"I'm fine," she lied, but Ichigo could tell she was hurting.
"Karin, I know when you're lying," Ichigo said firmly, lowering her to the ground. His hand glowed green as he began healing her bruises and restoring her reiatsu.
As Ichigo worked, Karin felt a strange warmth spreading through her body. "This feels nice," she thought, her face flushing as she realized how close and handsome Ichigo was. "No Karin! Bad thoughts!"
"I'm going to lie here for a bit," Karin muttered, trying to distract herself.
"All right," Ichigo said. "I'll go take a shower," he added before heading upstairs.
A few minutes later, Ichigo returned downstairs, where breakfast was waiting.
"Good morning, Ichi-nii!" Yuzu said cheerfully, placing a plate of food in front of him.
"Thanks, Yuzu," Ichigo replied, settling down to eat. Moka and Elizabeth were already at the table, enjoying their breakfast. Karin soon joined them, and Yuzu handed her a plate, too. The family enjoyed a peaceful meal together, laughter and chatter filling the air.
After finishing his breakfast, Ichigo stood up and walked over to the sink. Glancing at the clock, he noticed it was 7:30.
"Girls, it's 7:30," Ichigo said, remembering that school started at 8 sharp.
"Really?!" The girls exclaimed, quickly hurrying to finish their meals.
Moments later, Yuzu and Karin dashed out the door.
"Looks like it's time to head to Yōkai Academy," Ichigo said, glancing at Moka.
He stepped outside and called for his car. Once it arrived, everyone piled in, and Ichigo activated the Garganta.
Scene Change: Yōkai Academy
Ichigo emerged from the Garganta and parked right in front of the Yōkai Academy gates. Students nearby paused to stare at the car, some curious, others whispering.
Ichigo quickly exited the vehicle and jogged around to open Moka's door.
"Thank you, Ichigo," Moka said, smiling as she stepped out.
"You're welcome," Ichigo replied, leaning down to kiss her on the lips. Elizabeth rolled down the window and waved.
"Bye, Kaa-san!" Elizabeth called out, making the students around them pause in shock.
Ichigo paid them no mind as he climbed back into the driver's seat. Elizabeth waved one last time at Moka before Ichigo drove off.
He made a quick turn and headed toward a nearby forest near the staff dormitories, where he parked the car.
Ichigo and Elizabeth exited the vehicle.
"So... what are we going to do, Tou-san?" Elizabeth asked, looking up at him with curious eyes.
"I'm planning to take you to our room," Ichigo said with a chuckle.
"But Tou-san!" Elizabeth protested, pouting. "I want to explore."
Ichigo smiled. "All right, I'll make you a deal. For every hour you study, we'll spend thirty minutes exploring the academy."
"But that's not equal!" Elizabeth argued.
Before Ichigo could respond, a sudden voice broke through the peerage link.
"Ichigo!" The voice was urgent.
"Nel?" Ichigo replied immediately, recognizing her voice.
"We need help here!" Nel called out, sounding distressed.
"I'm on my way!" Ichigo responded without hesitation. He knelt down to Elizabeth's level.
"Sorry, Elizabeth, a friend of mine is in trouble. I need to go help her."
"Am I coming with you, Tou-san?" Elizabeth asked, her eyes wide with hope.
"Sorry, not this time," Ichigo said gently as he stood up.
"Suzumebachi, Kyōka, can the two of you come out," Ichigo called. The two spirits materialized beside him.
"Elizabeth, these are Suzumebachi and Kyōka. They'll tutor you while I'm gone," Ichigo said, patting her head.
"Hi!" Elizabeth waved shyly.
"Hello, Elizabeth," Kyōka greeted with a soft smile.
"Hiya!" Suzumebachi added cheerfully.
Ichigo shifted into his spirit form and summoned Yorugetsu. He ripped open a Garganta and leaped through it.
Scene Change: Hueco Mundo – Las Noches
Ichigo emerged in Hueco Mundo, where Las Noches had been rebuilt. His eyes scanned the area, landing on Nel and Tier, who were struggling against a male Arrancar. The man had long turquoise hair and yellow eyes, and his Hollow mask was positioned on his right cheek, extending around the back of his head with a crest. A Hollow hole was situated just below the base of his neck. He wore the standard Arrancar uniform, with a belt beneath his sash, and red reiatsu-shaped wings sprouted from his back.
"Say goodbye, Queens of Hueco Mundo!" the Arrancar shouted, launching a massive Cero.
Ichigo shunpō'ed over, grabbing Nel and Tier before the blast could reach them, dodging the attack. As he gently lowered them to the ground, the man turned his attention to Ichigo.
"Who are you?" the Arrancar demanded.
Ichigo ignored him, focusing on Nel and Tier. "You two all right?"
"Yes," Tier replied.
"Better now that you're here," Nel said with a grateful smile.
Suddenly, Ichigo was struck by a blast of reiatsu. He turned to see the Arrancar pointing his sword directly at him.
"Why are you here, Shinigami?" the man yelled.
"Because these two are my friends," Ichigo answered coolly, meeting the Arrancar's gaze. "Anyways, who are you?"
"My name is Plateado Arturo (1), and I am the new ruler of Hueco Mundo," the Arrancar declared, a proud smirk spreading across his face.
"I see," Ichigo replied nonchalantly. "My name is Kurosaki Ichigo, and I am the true ruler of Hueco Mundo."
Arturo's eyes narrowed in disbelief. "You, a Shinigami, ruling Hueco Mundo? The land of the Hollows? Don't make me laugh!"
Ichigo remained unfazed. "Who said I was just a Shinigami?" he asked as he raised Yorugetsu in front of him.
"Soy la furia que destruye el Cielo. [I am the fury that destroys Heaven.]"
Ichigo's hollow reiatsu began to gather around him, forming a swirling vortex of black and red energy.
"Coráge la furia que destruyó los nueve círculos del infierno. [I am the rage that destroyed the nine circles of Hell.]"
The energy began to encase Ichigo, forming a black and red pillar that spiraled upwards.
"Yo soy el que se atreve a desafiar al destino. [I am the one who dares to challenge fate.]"
The energy collapsed around him, bursting open to reveal a completely transformed Ichigo.
Ichigo kept his long, straight hair, but his skin was now marble white. Centered on his chest are tribal-like markings that stretch across to his shoulders. His fingertips and toes are equipped with retractable claws, while small, furry red tufts adorn his collarbone extending around his neck as well as his wrists and ankles. Ichigo's mask, which covers his entire head, features four spike-shaped marks: two stop at his forehead, and the other two extend past his eyes and teeth, running down to his chin and merging with the markings on his chest. Small, heart-shaped marks, open at the top and bottom, extend from the inner corners of his eyes. The mask also boasts two long, forward-pointing horns with black stripes running from their base to their tips.
Ichigo now wears only his Shihakushō pants. In his hands are two daitō, each approximately 75 inches (190.5 cm) long. The blades become increasingly curved near their tips and have three protrusions along the blunt edge close to the tip. While retaining their manji-like tsuba, the guards are more jagged and curved. The daitō in Ichigo's right hand is white, while the one in his left is black. Finally, five pairs of large, black, angel-like wings stretch majestically from his back (2).
"What… What are you?" Arturo gasped in shock.
"Your demise," Ichigo snarled, charging at Arturo with a downward slash from his black daitō.
Arturo blocked the initial attack with his Zanpakutō, but Ichigo swiftly changed grips, swinging his white daitō to strike Arturo's gut.
"Gaah!" Arturo cried as he sonído'ed away from Ichigo.
"¡La Garra! [The Claw!]" Arturo shouted as he swung his Zanpakutō, sending a wave of fire at Ichigo.
Ichigo took a deep breath and let out a menacing roar. The sound wave from his roar collided with Arturo's fire wave, dissipating it and forcing everyone to cover their ears.
Ichigo stopped his roar and immediately sonído'ed to Arturo's position. He delivered a powerful kick, sending the Arrancar crashing to the ground. Ichigo pointed both daitō at him, their blades glowing black and white.
"Arturo, you have two options," Ichigo said coldly. "Join me, or die."
"Not yet!" Arturo growled, raising his finger at Ichigo. "Negación Ataque! [Attack Negation!]"
A beam of hollow reiatsu shot from Arturo's finger, hitting Ichigo and causing him to freeze in place.
"Noticed it, didn't you?" Arturo sneered as he approached. "This attack uses the same principle as the Negación used by Menos Grandes. Instead of rescuing allies, it temporarily displaces you into a different dimension, preventing movement."
Arturo's green wings changed color, morphing into a red and violet hue as he raised his Zanpakutō, now surrounded by the same mixed reiatsu.
"Say goodbye!" Arturo yelled as he swung his Zanpakutō toward Ichigo's neck.
"ICHIGO!" Nel and Tier cried out in panic.
To Arturo's shock, his attack stopped just before it reached Ichigo's neck.
"Looks like that didn't work," Ichigo said, his voice dripping with menace. He swung his black daitō upward, shattering Arturo's Zanpakutō.
"What?!" Arturo gasped in disbelief.
Ichigo kicked Arturo in the chest, sending him skidding back a few feet.
"One more time," Ichigo said as he gathered reiatsu into his two daitō. "Do you submit, or not?"
"I will never submit!" Arturo shouted defiantly, extending his hand and charging a red Cero.
"Very well," Ichigo replied, crossing his daitō in front of him.
"Gran!" Arturo screamed, the Cero growing in size and turning purple as it continued to charge.
"Getsuga..." Ichigo shouted.
"Ray!" Arturo yelled in response.
"Jūji-" Ichigo began, preparing his counter.
"Cero!" Arturo cried, firing the massive Gran Ray Cero directly at Ichigo.
"-Shō!" Ichigo completed the incantation and released the Black and White Getsuga Jūjishō, sending it toward Arturo's attack. The two powerful blasts collided, pushing against each other with fierce intensity.
"HA!" Arturo boasted. "Your final attack is too weak to defeat my Gran Ray Cero!"
Ichigo's expression hardened. "Very well," he muttered as he plunged both daitōs into the sand. With a swift motion, he used his horns to prick his palms, rubbing the blood across them. Taking a deep breath, he began gathering his Hollow reiatsu.
"What... are you doing?" Arturo questioned, eyes narrowing.
Ichigo ignored him, continuing to focus as the black and red reiatsu coalesced around his horns. With a fierce yell, he unleashed a Grand Ray Cero of his own, a massive beam of black and red energy that collided with his Getsuga Jūjishō and shattered Arturo's Gran Ray Cero. The resulting explosion kicked up sand, obscuring the battlefield.
Arturo struggled to see through the dust. Seizing the opportunity, Ichigo swiftly grabbed his daitōs, and Sonído'ed behind Arturo.
"Goodbye," Ichigo whispered, before slicing through Arturo's neck, severing his head in one clean strike.
As the battle came to a grim end, Ichigo turned to see a large group of Hollows gathered around the fighting ground. Among them, several Adjuchas, a few Vasto Lorde, and a handful of Arrancars stood watching intently. Ichigo's gaze swept over the crowd.
"Do any of you wish to fight me?" Ichigo asked his voice firm and commanding.
One of the Arrancars stepped forward. Ichigo immediately recognized him.
"We meet again, niño," the Arrancar said, his voice filled with dark amusement.
"It's been a long time, Dordoni," Ichigo replied, a hint of recognition in his tone. This was the Arrancar he had faced when he infiltrated Las Noches.
"It has," Dordoni agreed, kneeling and bowing to Ichigo, a gesture that was slowly mirrored by the other Hollows around him.
Ichigo raised an eyebrow, perplexed. "What is going on here?" he asked, glancing toward Nel and Tier for an explanation.
"All of us sense your power all across Hueco Mundo," Dordoni explained. "Many Hollows are marching to witness your ascension to the throne."
Ichigo sighed in frustration, seeing Nel and Tier also kneeling in respect. He had hoped to avoid this, but it seemed inevitable.
"Very well," Ichigo said, his voice resigned. "Rise."
The crowd of Hollows stood. Ichigo held up his left hand. "Now then, as my first command, I wish to hear your opinion on a matter."
Ichigo raised his right hand. "Walk over here if you wish for peace with the Shinigami," he said, his tone unwavering. "Walk over here if you wish to fight the Shinigami, or if you are undecided."
Several Adjuchas, weaker Vasto Lorde, and a few Arrancars moved to Ichigo's left. Apacci and Sung-Sung helped Nel and Tier along, pushing them to the left side. Meanwhile, many of the Arrancars chose to walk to Ichigo's right side.
Ichigo nodded and moved toward the right side, his eyes scanning the gathered group.
"Can one of you explain your reason for war?" he asked, his gaze cold and direct.
A massive Arrancar stepped forward, his body a dark brown with large, blade-like extensions protruding from his forehead and arms. The top of his forehead blade split into two smaller blades, while his thick arms ended in three large blades (3).
"My name is Perforar [drill," the massive Hollow rumbled. "And I desire revenge."
Ichigo's eyes narrowed. "Why?" he asked, pressing him for more.
"Because they killed my friend," Perforar snarled, his fists clenching.
"Did your friend attack humans?" Ichigo asked, his tone calm but firm.
"He did, but only because he was hungry!" Perforar growled, clearly agitated.
Ichigo sighed, shaking his head. "Look, Perforar. Many humans in the World of the Living are defenseless against Hollows. The Shinigami are there to protect them."
Perforar's voice grew louder, a mix of anger and desperation. "What are we supposed to do? Let the Shinigami kill us all?"
"No," Ichigo answered, his voice resolute. "While I can't stop the Shinigami from protecting the humans, I can make it so no Shinigami can enter Hueco Mundo."
Perforar's eyes widened in disbelief. "What?"
"I will make Hueco Mundo a land where only Hollows roam, free from the Shinigami," Ichigo declared, his voice unwavering.
"How?" Perforar asked, confusion clear in his tone.
"Because I am the strongest Shinigami," Ichigo said, deactivating his Resurrección. A gasp rippled through the crowd as they realized their new king was a Shinigami, despite his appearance.
Perforar hesitated, then asked, "What does the Shinigami get in return?"
Ichigo answered without hesitation, "The Shinigami will no longer have to worry about Hollows entering Soul Society."
"What about the hollows from The World of the Living?" A new voice rose from the crowd.
This second Arrancar possessed a prominent domed, armor-like shell. The armor is pale beige in coloration with four large spines jutting out of the back. The armor is trimmed with red and green bands, with the green on the outermost edge. There is an additional spine protruding from the armor over each of its shoulders, which are connected by a green breastplate. Its body is colored similarly to the shell, and its long limbs and tail are banded with plates of armor. The top surfaces of the tail and arms are protected by green armor, and the arms have two small spines. It has three brown, clawed digits on its hands and feet. This Arrancar has fluffy white fur on its belly and fringing its face like a beard. It has a small, pink nose with a three-pointed patch of brown fur extending up its short snout. It also has four pointed teeth and a plate of beige armor atop its head, similar to a helmet (4).
Ichigo turned to face him. "What is your name?" he asked.
"I am called the Guardian," the Arrancar replied, his voice low and respectful.
"To answer your question," Ichigo began, "Those hollows will either be killed if they get unlucky or if they get lucky and manage to open a Garganta to Hueco Mundo or were able to have a Menos Grande perform a Negación they will be safe."
"I see," Guardian replied. "Good answer." The other Arrancars nodded and moved to the left side, signaling their agreement.
"Now then, Tier and Nel," Ichigo said, turning to them. "Please find the strongest among this crowd and bring them to the throne room."
"Understood," Tier replied. Ichigo opened a Garganta and leaped through.
Scene Change: Ukitake's Office
Ukitake-taichō sat alone in his office, reading a letter.
"Hm. About time Abarai-kun proposed to Rukia," he thought, but his reflection was cut short when a Garganta suddenly opened in front of him. He dropped the letter and jumped out of his chair, instinctively drawing his Zanpakutō and pointing it at the portal, ready to face whatever hollow might emerge.
However, instead of a hollow, Ichigo casually stepped through.
"What was my deepest-kept secret?" Ukitake demanded, keeping his sword trained on Ichigo.
"When you were a child, you developed a fatal lung disease. In a last-ditch effort, you summoned Mimihagi, who resided in your body until I reclaimed him and forced Urahara to use his Bankai to surgically give you a new lung," Ichigo replied. Ukitake sighed in relief and sheathed his Zanpakutō, returning to his chair.
"Hello, Ichigo-sama. What can I do for you?" Ukitake asked.
"Hello, Ukitake-taichō. Are you busy right now?" Ichigo asked.
"Not particularly," Ukitake responded.
"Good," Ichigo said, handing Ukitake a document. "I need you to read and sign this peace treaty with the Hollows."
Ukitake took the contract and began reading it line by line.
"This contract is surprisingly fair for both sides," Ukitake commented once he finished.
"It took a lot of effort for the various Hollows to agree," Ichigo said.
"Wait… you wrote this?" Ukitake asked, surprised.
"I did. The new King of the Hollows is an ally of mine," Ichigo replied.
"This isn't something I can simply sign on my own," Ukitake said. "I'll need the agreement of the other Taichōs."
"I understand," Ichigo said. "If any of the others ask, please don't mention that I was involved in drafting the treaty. I want them to decide for themselves."
Ukitake nodded, understanding Ichigo's reasoning.
"What if they ask how you got it?" Ukitake asked.
"Tell them an envoy from the King of Hollows, a Hollow I know, brought it to me."
"Very well," Ukitake said, summoning thirteen Hell Butterflies and sending them to the other Taichōs.
"And if they ask for the name of this King of Hollows?" Ukitake asked.
"His name is Luna Asesina [Slaying Moon," Ichigo replied.
Ukitake nodded and then shunpō'ed to the Assembly Hall.
Scene Change: Assembly Hall
Ukitake arrived at the Taichōs' Assembly Hall and took his seat. Moments later, the other Taichōs filed in and settled into their seats. Yamamoto-Sōtaichō arrived last and took his place.
"Ukitake-taichō, you called for an emergency meeting. Please stand and explain your reason for gathering us," Yamamoto-Sōtaichō ordered.
Ukitake rose and addressed the group. "A few minutes ago, an envoy from the new King of Hollows came to me with a peace treaty."
"How did an envoy manage to reach you in your office?" Yoruichi asked, clearly puzzled.
"Because Ichigo delivered it to me," Ukitake replied. "The treaty has a few key terms. For our benefit, no Hollow will enter Soul Society unless they are a messenger for the King of Hollows. In exchange, no Shinigami will enter Hueco Mundo unless they are a messenger for the Gotei 14."
Toshiro raised a brow. "What happens to those who break this agreement?"
"Anyone who violates these terms will be detained if possible and sent back to their respective home," Ukitake answered.
"And if the Hollows resist?" Kensei asked, leaning forward.
"If they show resistance, you have permission to kill them," Ukitake replied.
Lisa spoke up. "What about in The World of the Living?"
"If a Hollow appears in The World of the Living and causes trouble, you may kill it. However, if it is merely wandering and causing no harm, inform the Thirteenth Division and contact the King of Hollows to escort the Hollow back to Hueco Mundo," Ukitake explained.
"Does the treaty say that?" Urahara asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Surprisingly, yes," Ukitake replied.
"This new King of Hollows seems quite intelligent," Genryusai observed. "Ukitake-taichō, what is the name of this King?"
"He calls himself Luna Asesina," Ukitake answered. Urahara smirked. Yoruichi glanced at him, noticing the subtle signal from his eyes.
"I think it's time to vote," Genryusai said. "Given the gravity of this matter, I believe unanimous consent is required. All in favor of the treaty?" Genryusai asked.
All the Taichōs except Kenpachi raised their hands.
"Kenpachi-taichō, you didn't vote. Why?" Genryusai asked, his voice calm but firm.
"Because, old man, things have been too peaceful here. I kind of want to test this new 'King of Hollows' to see if he's the real deal," Kenpachi said, grinning.
"Is there anything that would convince you to vote for the treaty?" Ukitake asked.
"I want to meet this 'King of Hollows,'" Kenpachi declared. Some of the other Taichōs nodded in agreement.
"Very well. I'll inform Ichigo," Ukitake responded. "Permission to leave and fetch the 'King of Hollows'?"
"Granted," Genryusai affirmed.
Ukitake shunpō'ed to Ichigo's office, where he found him reading a book.
"So... what happened?" Ichigo asked, looking up from his reading.
"Kenpachi-Taichō wants to fight the 'King of Hollows.'"
"Of course he does," Ichigo sighed, closing his book and returning it to his mindscape. "Give me one second."
Ichigo opened a Garganta and stepped inside. After a brief wait, he returned to Ukitake's office, now in his Resurrección form.
"Show me the way," Luna Asesina growled.
"Very well." Ukitake tried to hide his unease at Luna Asesina's intimidating presence as he shunpō'ed toward the meeting. Luna Asesina, using Sonído, followed closely behind.
"Luckily I've never had to reveal my Resurrección to the captains," Luna Asesina thought as they arrived at the meeting room.
"You wish to speak with me?" Luna Asesina's voice was low and commanding.
"I do! I want to fight you!" Kenpachi shouted.
"No," Luna Asesina replied flatly. "I do not wish to fight. My goal is to bring peace to Soul Society and Hueco Mundo."
"I'm not voting until I get my fight," Kenpachi insisted.
"Very well," Luna Asesina said. "Yamamoto-Sōtaichō, is there a place where we can fight?"
"There is Muken," Genryusai answered.
With that, the group relocated to Muken. Luna Asesina pointed his blades at Kenpachi.
"This is your last chance—do you still wish to fight me?" Luna Asesina threatened.
"YES!" Kenpachi yelled, tearing off his eyepatch and charging forward.
Luna Asesina sighed and, with a single swing of Black Tensa, sent Kenpachi flying back. He landed hard, and a large gash appeared across his chest.
"He was able to easily cut through Kenpachi's reiatsu and damage him directly." Urahara thought.
"To see Ichigo's Hollow powers have reached such heights…" Yoruichi mused, glancing at the Vizards. "How strong will they be if they achieve Resurrección?"
"IMPRESSIVE!" Kenpachi bellowed, blood dripping from his chest as he gripped his blade tighter. "Drink, Nozarashi!" he roared, unleashing a surge of eerie yellow reiatsu. The energy settled, revealing Kenpachi holding a large axe-like sword with a green tassel at the top.
"He managed to achieve Shikai?" Luna Asesina thought, observing the change.
"TAKE THIS!" Kenpachi yelled, swinging Nozarashi at Luna Asesina. Ichigo blocked the strike effortlessly with Black Tensa.
"Cero," Ichigo uttered, firing a white Cero from Black Tensa. Kenpachi blocked it with Nozarashi, but the force pushed him back.
"Cero Galaxia [Zero Galaxy]!" Ichigo cried, unleashing a flurry of black and white ceros from his twin daitō.
"RAH!" Kenpachi charged forward again, using Nozarashi to block as many of the ceros as possible. Despite being hit by a few, he pressed on.
"Eat this!" Kenpachi swung his weapon at Luna Asesina, but Ichigo dodged the strike. Luna Asesina Sonído'ed next to Kenpachi and fired two ceros point-blank at his chest, sending him sprawling.
"Had enough yet?" Luna Asesina asked coldly.
"NOT YET!" Kenpachi growled, slowly rising, his yellow reiatsu flaring as he stood. "I STILL GOT SOME IN ME!"
"Enough," Genryusai commanded. "Unohana-Taichō, please take Kenpachi-Taichō to the Fourth Division."
"Yes, Sōtaichō," Unohana replied.
"BANKAI!" Kenpachi roared, unleashing a massive explosion of red reiatsu. As the dust cleared, Kenpachi's appearance changed. His skin was now red, black markings covered his face, and horns protruded from his forehead. In his hand, Nozarashi had transformed into a jagged cleaver-like sword.
"RAH!" Kenpachi shouted, charging again. He swung at Luna Asesina, but Ichigo easily dodged, using Sonído out of reach. Kenpachi's blade slammed into the ground with enough force to shake Muken.
The captains gasped, shocked by the display of power. Kenpachi yanked his blade free and spun, searching for Luna Asesina.
"Is he blind?" Luna Asesina wondered, watching Kenpachi turn in circles.
"Kenpachi-Taichō! This is enough!" Genryusai called out.
Kenpachi ignored him, charging once again, only for Luna Asesina to appear in his path. A silent Getsuga Jūjishō hit Kenpachi in the chest, pushing him back several feet.
"RAH!" Kenpachi growled, charging again, relentlessly.
"He will be severely punished for this," Genryusai muttered.
"I don't think Kenpachi is fully aware of what's happening," Shinji observed.
"What do you mean?" Genryusai asked, turning to him.
"What Shinji means is that Kenpachi is acting purely on instinct," Lisa clarified. They watched as Kenpachi continued to charge, either ignoring or cutting through Luna Asesina's ceros.
"What should I do?" Luna Asesina pondered, realizing that his attacks weren't causing much damage to Kenpachi.
"Forget the secrecy. Go all out," Zangetsu advised.
"I agree," Yhwach said. "It seems Kenpachi won't stop unless we break through his Bankai's defenses."
"Understood." Luna Asesina replied, beginning to charge both of his Tensa with reiatsu. He sonído'd next to Kenpachi.
"GETSUGA JŪJISHŌ!" Luna Asesina roared, unleashing his attack at point-blank range. A massive explosion of black and white reiatsu erupted as Kenpachi was sent flying through the air.
"Getsuga Jūjishō? Isn't that one of Ichigo's attacks?" one of the Taichōs, unaware of Ichigo's true identity, thought. Luna Asesina appeared above the airborne Kenpachi.
"GETSUGA JŪJISHŌ!" Luna Asesina shouted again, slamming Kenpachi back into the ground with another powerful blast. Kenpachi's Bankai finally dissipated. He collapsed, unconscious and bleeding heavily.
"Unohana-taichō, please take Kenpachi-taichō to the Fourth Division," Genryusai ordered.
"Yes, Sōtaichō," Unohana responded, gently lifting Kenpachi from his crater. Luna Asesina appeared beside her.
"I believe the motion has passed," Luna Asesina inquired.
"It has, Ichigo," Genryusai confirmed. Luna Asesina dismissed his Resurrección form.
"Man, Ichigo, that's your Resurrección?" Shinji asked.
"Indeed," Ichigo replied.
"Why was that necessary? You could have simply forced us to respect the treaty," Kensei said.
"I don't want to force you into obeying laws you don't agree with," Ichigo explained.
Genryusai retrieved the treaty and signed it. The document was passed to each Taichō for signatures, excluding Kenpachi and Unohana. Once it reached Ukitake, he passed it to Ichigo, who signed it. Ukitake then used a Kidō to create a copy, giving Ichigo the original while keeping the duplicate.
"Thank you. I'll see you all later." Ichigo said, opening a Garganta and stepping through.
"Ichigo is ridiculously powerful," Toshiro remarked. The other Taichōs nodded in agreement before leaving Muken.
Scene Change: Hueco Mundo – Throne Room
Ichigo stepped out of the Garganta into the throne room, where a long table awaited him. On one side, various hollows selected by Tier and Nel sat, including Perforar and Guardian, whom Ichigo recognized from earlier. Tier and Nel sat on the other side, with the center seat open. Ichigo walked to the empty chair and sat down.
"Good to meet all of you. Let's get started." Ichigo said, returning to his normal form. "Each of you, introduce yourselves."
"I'm Touya Huracán," he said. He stands at approximately 177 cm (5'10") with hazel eyes and short, seafoam-green hair. His neck has a reptilian appearance, while the rest of his body is pale white. His arms and legs are muscular. He wears a white mask covering his mouth and nose, paired with a white shirt featuring a person in a colorful suit. Over this, he has a brown leather jacket and white fingerless gloves. He also wears black jeans and black combat boots. His Zanpakutō is tied to his waist.
"I'm Mira Tormenta," she said. She stands at 180 cm (5'11") with rich mocha skin, dark gray hair styled in a warrior braid, and dark blue eyes with a mole beneath her left eye. Her build is slender, with long arms and legs, and she has large D-cup breasts. Her hollow fragment is a bone crown on her forehead, appearing as a stylized white fleur-de-lis with a cross-section (5). Around her neck is a silver locket. She wears a tight black V-neck shirt, a gray open short-sleeve jacket, black fingered white gloves, tight gray pants, black socks, and black boots. Her sword is tied to her back. Noticing the person next to her was asleep, she gently shook him awake. It took a few seconds for him to realize it was his turn.
"I am Marik Muyomori," he yawned. He stands approximately 188 cm (6'2") with tan skin, medium-length spiky dark orange hair, and sky-blue eyes. His arms and legs are muscular, and a white tiger tattoo adorns his left side. His hollow fragment, resembling tiger teeth, is attached to the side of his face. He wears a teal T-shirt beneath a long-sleeve black jacket, dark blue denim jeans, a brown leather belt, black socks, brown running shoes, metal tiger fang earrings, and brown fingerless gloves.
"Please call me Luna," she said. She stands at 160 cm (5'3") with slightly dark pale skin and bright blue eyes. Her hair is a dark indigo shade with blue highlights, and she has a unicorn horn of matching colors. She wears an indigo Victorian dress that resembles the night sky. Around her neck is a necklace in matching colors (6).
"Call me Morgan," she said, blowing a kiss at Ichigo. She stands at 172 cm (5'8") with lightly tanned skin and very light green hair, adorned with a dark purple bat-shaped hairband. Her matching light green eyes glimmer mischievously. She wears an outfit resembling a hybrid of a one-piece swimsuit and light purple yoga pants. A heart-shaped cutout lies just below her chest, and her pants are decorated with darker purple bats. She completes the look with dark purple boots that cover her ankles (7).
"I'm Mio," she said quietly. At 152 cm (5'), she is the shortest of the new Espada. She has long, straight black hair and gray-blue eyes. Her dress appears to be made from a faded cloak. Ichigo noticed that her arms were bone white with what seemed to be scales, which she quickly tried to hide upon realizing his gaze.
"Yo. I'm Llamarada [Flare," he said with his arms crossed. Llamarada stands at a towering 190 cm (6'3") with a muscular build. His imposing height gives him an unconscious aura of dominance. He has two-toned dark red and black hair, paired with sharp red eyes and thick, split eyebrows. He wears a red-and-black blazer jacket over a plain white T-shirt, matching black jeans, and basketball shoes.
"All right then," Ichigo said, motioning to the group. "For those who don't know, this is Tier Harribel and Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck, part of my fracción. They will represent me in Hueco Mundo when I'm not here."
The Espada nodded in acknowledgment.
"Now, I'll assess your power levels compared to mine," Ichigo continued. He slowly placed his hand on each of the Espada members in turn. Once he finished, he sat back down.
"Now then, from the lowest to highest," Ichigo instructed. "I want each of you to think of a location where you want your number to be."
"Noveno [9th] is Guardian," Ichigo announced. The number 9 appeared on Guardian's face, the circle starting outside his eye and continuing down to his mouth.
"Octava [8th] is Luna." The second shortest Espada nodded as the number 8 appeared on her mid-back.
"Séptima [7th] is Perforar." The bold Espada flexed his right bicep as the number 7 appeared.
"Sexta [6th] is Mio." The shortest Espada nodded as the number 6 materialized on the backside of her left hand.
"Quinto [5th] is Ilamarada." "What?!" He shouted as the number 5 appeared on his left bicep.
"Cuatro [4th] is Morgan." The mischievous Espada winked at Ichigo as the number 4 appeared on her lower right back.
"Tres [3rd] is Touya." The masked Espada nodded as the number settled on his tongue.
"Segunda [2nd] is Mira." The dark-skinned Espada clapped with joy as the number 2 appeared on the right side of her left breast.
"Primera [1st] is Marik." The tired Espada slowly raised his arm in victory as the number 1 appeared on his right pectoral muscle.
"And I am the Cero [Zero," Ichigo said, as the number Zero appeared on his right shoulder.
"Now then, I'm giving you all free rein to decide what you'll do with Las Noches since all eleven of you will live here," Ichigo announced. The Espada nodded in acceptance, and the meeting was adjourned. Ichigo turned to Tier and Nel, noticing Nel was holding a small bundle.
"Nel… who is that?" Ichigo asked.
"I found her while we were searching through the hollows," Nel replied.
"Hello, dear. What's your name?" Ichigo asked gently.
"Our name is Jack," came the reply. Ichigo looked to see a small girl, about 134 cm (4'5"), with short silver hair and pale yellow eyes. Her face was marred with scars and stitches, and she was wrapped in brown rags. A small, dagger-like Zanpakutō was tied to her lower back.
"Who are you?" Jack asked curiously.
"I'm Ichigo, their..."
"Master," Nel interrupted, with a teasing smile.
"Okay, Mother," Jack said, glancing up at Nel.
"If you or the Espada need anything, just call for me," Ichigo said as he opened a Garganta and stepped through.
Scene Change: Yōkai Academy
While Ichigo was away, Kyōka and Suzumebachi took turns teaching Elizabeth. Kyōka handled the school subjects—Japanese, Math, English, and Yōki control—while Suzumebachi taught physical topics like basic fighting styles and exercises. Both were aware that these subjects might seem boring to Elizabeth, so each time Elizabeth answered a test correctly, they entertained her with stories from Ichigo's adventures or showed memories, as long as they weren't too graphic.
Ichigo jumped out of the Garganta to find Kyōka showing Elizabeth a memory from the Battle City Finals.
"Now, Dark Paladin, attack Ichigo's Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon!" Yugi ordered. Dark Paladin charged towards Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon. In return, Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon powered up and fired back.
"I've won!" Yugi proclaimed, but Ichigo shook his head.
"Don't think so just yet," Ichigo said, as Yugi looked up to see Dark Paladin struggling against Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon's claws.
"I activate the effect of Honest," Ichigo announced. A transparent, white angel-like monster appeared next to him. "During either player's Damage Step, when a LIGHT monster I control battles, I can send this card from my hand to the Graveyard to boost my monster's ATK to match that of my opponent's monster, until the end of the turn."
The angel floated towards Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon and merged with it. With a mighty roar, Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon's attack points soared from 4500 to 12400.
"What?!" Yugi gasped.
"Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon, finish this duel with White Obliteration Burst!" Ichigo commanded. Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon swiped Dark Paladin away with its claws and unleashed a massive blast, incinerating Dark Paladin and wiping out Yugi's remaining life points.
"Wow. Tou-san is amazing," Elizabeth said in awe.
"Thanks, Elizabeth," Ichigo replied, stepping through the Garganta.
"Tou-san!" Elizabeth cried, running over to Ichigo.
"Hello, Elizabeth! Did you have fun with Kyōka and Suzumebachi?" Ichigo asked.
"Kyōka-sensei and Suzumebachi-sensei taught me so much!" Elizabeth beamed.
"Great," Ichigo said, noticing the time. "I'll be leaving with your mother on a trip tonight. Do you want to come?"
"What about Kyōka-sensei and Suzumebachi-sensei?" Elizabeth asked.
"They'll go wherever you go," Ichigo assured her.
"I want to come too!" Elizabeth replied eagerly.
"Very well," Ichigo said, gathering clothes for both Elizabeth and Moka. Once packed, Ichigo and Elizabeth left their room. Elizabeth eagerly asked questions along the way, either about stories Kyōka had shared or things she noticed.
They arrived just as the Newspaper Club did. Elizabeth ran over to Moka.
"Kaa-san!" Elizabeth yelled, hugging Moka.
"Hello, Elizabeth-chan. How was your day?" Moka asked.
"It was fun. Tou-san had to leave for some business, so he asked Kyōka-sensei and Suzumebachi-sensei to teach me while he was gone," Elizabeth explained.
"I see," Moka replied, glancing at Ichigo with a soft smile. Before she could ask him about his day, a loud honk interrupted them. The yellow school bus pulled up, and the doors opened to reveal the bus driver.
"Good day, everyone. Ready for another adventure?" Nurari called out.
"Ya!" Elizabeth cheered. Ichigo and Moka chuckled at her enthusiasm.
The group boarded the bus. Ichigo, Moka, Elizabeth, and Kokoa sat in the front, while the rest of the Newspaper Club sat in the back.
"Sorry for making you choose between me and your friends," Ichigo whispered to Moka.
"Don't worry about it, Ichigo," Moka replied softly.
"If you say so," Ichigo said.
Scene Change: Yuki-Onna Village
The bus drove out of the tunnel into a heavy blizzard. The driver abruptly stopped the bus in the middle of the snowstorm.
"This is your stop," Nurari announced.
"WHAT?!" Kurumu yelled, her voice filled with disbelief. Nurari ignored her outburst and opened the bus doors. Ichigo, Moka, Elizabeth, and Kokoa were the first to step off.
"It's cold, Tou-san," Elizabeth commented, her breath visible in the freezing air.
"Stay close to me," Ichigo said, activating Schrift I: The Ignatius. A warm aura surrounded the group as Ichigo channeled his reiatsu to keep them warm. Tsukune and his group, unaware of Ichigo's power, remained oblivious to the energy protecting them.
"The weather's cool, isn't it?" Mizore remarked, glancing at the group.
"Cool?!" Kurumu gasped, her voice shaking. "We're going to freeze to death!"
"It's okay… Once we reach my home, the wind will stop, and the temperature will ease up," Mizore reassured them, leading the way. "Stick close so you don't get separated."
As they walked, Ichigo thought it might be a good idea to ask Shirayuki if she wanted to join them.
"Shirayuki, do you want to come out?" Ichigo called.
"Sure," Shirayuki replied, materializing in front of him. Shirayuki's manifested spirit takes the form of a pale-skinned young woman with icy blue eyes that radiate a serene, ethereal presence. Her long, pale lavender hair cascades gracefully down her back, with a delicate strand falling between her eyes, parted to the left and adorned with a blue, star-shaped hair clip. She wears an elegant white kimono with flowing, wide sleeves and a floor-length hem, accentuating her otherworldly grace. A pale yellow-green obi cinches her waist, tied into a large, pale purple bow that rests elegantly at her back, completing her tranquil and refined appearance.
"Hello, Great Ancestor," Mizore greeted her.
"Ancestor?!" the Newspaper Club members exclaimed in surprise.
"Hello, my descendant," Shirayuki said warmly, nodding in acknowledgment.
The group continued onward, the winds eventually subsiding to reveal a magnificent ice village.
"Like mother, like daughter," Ichigo joked with a smile. Shirayuki playfully hit his arm.
"AMAZING!" the Newspaper Club members exclaimed in unison, awe in their voices.
"Welcome. I've been waiting for you," Tsurara, Mizore's mother, greeted them as they arrived.
"Ah! Mizore-san's Kaa-san," Tsukune said in realization.
"It's Tsurara," she corrected. "We haven't met since the school event, have we, Tsukune-san?"
Tsurara then turned to Ichigo and Shirayuki.
"Welcome, Great Ancestor," she said, bowing deeply. Ichigo and Shirayuki returned the gesture.
"My name is Ichigo, and this is Shirayuki," Ichigo explained.
"I see," Tsurara replied, leading them inside her home. The warm, inviting scent of food filled the air as the group sat down at a long table piled with dishes.
"I heard from Mizore that you all came straight from school, so I prepared a meal," Tsurara said with a smile.
Everyone dug in, enjoying the generous spread.
"Ichigo-sama," Tsurara began after a moment.
"Just Ichigo. No honorifics," Ichigo replied casually.
"Very well, Ichigo," Tsurara nodded before continuing. "By the way, the Snow Priestess wishes to meet you both after the meal."
"The Snow Priestess?" Shirayuki asked, intrigued.
"Great Ancestor, the Snow Priestess is the ruler and elder of this village," Tsurara explained.
"I see," Shirayuki responded, absorbing the information.
Soon, everyone finished their meal, and Tsurara led Ichigo and Shirayuki to the Snow Priestess's shrine. A long set of stairs awaited them.
"Sorry, but I can't go further," Tsurara said, stopping at the base.
"That's fine," Shirayuki said with a nod.
"Thank you, Tsurara-san," Ichigo said, and with that, Tsurara turned and left. Ichigo and Shirayuki made their way up to the shrine, entering to find a woman sitting on an ice throne. Her youthful features were framed by purple-silver hair, decorated with large headpieces. She wore a white kimono with a purple obi and black zōri sandals. A girl lay on the ground nearby.
It took a moment for Ichigo and Shirayuki to recognize her.
"Mizore?" Ichigo called, rushing to her side.
"Ichigo?" Mizore's voice was weak, but she looked up in surprise. Then her gaze shifted to the Snow Priestess.
"Where am I?" Mizore asked confusion in her voice.
"Welcome to my shrine," the Snow Priestess said, her tone calm but authoritative. "I am the Snow Priestess, ruler of this land."
"Why was I brought here?" Mizore asked, frowning. "If you hadn't interfered, Tsukune and I…"
"No," the Snow Priestess interrupted. "I am a prophet, and I can see the future. You and that boy, Tsukune, are destined to never be bound to one another."
Ichigo burst out laughing at the priestess's claim.
"Who are you?" the Snow Priestess demanded, sensing the mocking tone.
"I am Kurosaki Ichigo, and this is Shirayuki," Ichigo introduced himself.
"Welcome, Great Ancestor," the Snow Priestess said, bowing respectfully to Shirayuki before turning her attention back to Ichigo. "What gives you the right to disrespect me?" she asked, her voice tinged with authority.
"Personal reasons," Ichigo replied nonchalantly. "But what gives you the right to order Mizore not to follow her heart?"
Before the Snow Priestess could respond, footsteps echoed through the shrine. A man appeared, leaning against an ice pillar.
"I was wondering what was going on at this hour," the man said, his voice smooth. "The woman who is destined to be my wife has finally arrived?"
"What?!" Mizore exclaimed in confusion.
"This is Fujisaki-san," the Snow Priestess said, gesturing to the man. "He is an executive from an organization in the human world. Listen to me. This man is your destined partner. By marrying him, you will be the savior of this dying land."
The man stepped forward, extending his hand. "Hello, my name is Miyabi Fujisaki. It's a pleasure to meet you, my girl of destiny."
Ichigo's eyes narrowed as he studied Fujisaki. "Tell me, Miyabi Fujisaki, what organization are you from?" Ichigo asked sharply. "It wouldn't happen to be an organization called Fairy Tale, would it?"
Fujisaki froze for a moment, a brief flicker of surprise passing through his eyes.
"Oh, you've heard of us?" Fujisaki asked, clearly taken aback.
"Oh, I have," Ichigo said, pulling out a sealed scroll. "And so has Yasaka-hime," he added, breaking the seal and reading aloud, "By the orders of Yasaka, the Ruler of the Yōkai of Japan, the organization known as Fairy Tale is now considered a terrorist group. Anyone associated with it is to be arrested on sight for attempting to reveal the existence of the Yōkai world." Ichigo rolled the scroll back up. "Miyabi Fujisaki, you are under arrest for associating with a named terrorist organization," Ichigo declared.
"Very well," Fujisaki said with resignation. "Looks like I have no choice," he muttered. "Kahlua."
From behind him, a woman stepped forward. She had light blond hair, tan skin, and dark red eyes. Her long, wavy hair was held back by a tiara, with bangs framing her forehead. She wore a flowing white dress, snow-white gloves, and white boots, with rosary-shaped earrings adorning her ears.
"Yes, Fujisaki-san?" Kahlua asked.
"Kill these two," Fujisaki ordered, pointing at Ichigo and Shirayuki. "And bring her to me," he added, pointing at Mizore.
"Understood," Kahlua sighed, her voice betraying a hint of reluctance.
"Shirayuki, take care of the Snow Priestess," Ichigo said firmly.
"Very well," Shirayuki replied, stepping away from Ichigo and moving toward Mizore.
Kahlua hesitated for a moment, her eyes filled with uncertainty. "Please leave," she pleaded softly.
"Sorry, but I can't do that," Ichigo answered, stepping forward.
"Kahlua, remove your limiter," Fujisaki instructed coldly. "Your task is to kill everyone and bring me the girl."
Kahlua's eyes glistened with unshed tears as she nodded. "Very well." She reached up and removed her right earring. Instantly, her right arm transformed, five razor-sharp bat wing claws emerging from her skin.
Ichigo raised an eyebrow. "Looks like I need to get serious," he muttered, summoning Suzumebachi's sealed butterfly-shaped sword. "Sting all enemies to death… Suzumebachi."
The sword glowed a golden hue as it began to release its energy, encasing both of Ichigo's hands. As the golden glow faded, Suzumebachi's released form was revealed. Ichigo dropped into a fighting stance, the hidden stingers of his blade ready for action.
Without warning, Kahlua charged at Ichigo, swinging her transformed arm. He easily dodged her strike, noticing the tears that welled in her eyes. She turned and attempted to attack again, but Ichigo swiftly avoided the blow. Seizing the opportunity, he revealed the stinger and injected her with the venom.
"GAH!" Kahlua cried out, her body beginning to seize as the venom coursed through her veins. Ichigo quickly removed her right earring and placed it back on her ear. Her arm reverted to its human form, the claws vanishing.
Ichigo studied her. "You're one of Moka's sisters, aren't you?" he asked.
Kahlua's eyes widened. "How do you know?"
"Because I've seen Moka do something similar," Ichigo replied, recalling an incident from Moka's training.
"What's your relation to her?" Kahlua pressed.
"Do you know Elizabeth?" Ichigo asked.
"I do! She's adorable!" Kahlua said, a soft smile creeping onto her face.
"She's my daughter," Ichigo stated calmly.
"Really?" Kahlua gasped in surprise.
"She is," Ichigo confirmed. "Kahlua, why are you working for Fairy Tale?"
"Why does it matter?" Kahlua retorted.
"Because I can tell you don't enjoy this," Ichigo said. "You don't want to fight."
Kahlua's expression faltered. "I just wanted to help..."
"Help?" Ichigo echoed, intrigued.
"I've always wanted to help my family," Kahlua explained, her voice tinged with sadness. "But many of them didn't need or want my help. I fell into a depressing phase. But then my mother asked me to help with Fairy Tale. She said she needed me. And when I completed her tasks, she thanked me. That made me feel like I was doing something important."
"Even if she asked you to kill people?" Ichigo pressed.
Kahlua sighed, her shoulders sagging. "Even then."
"Don't you see? Your mother is using you as a tool for Fairy Tale," Ichigo said sternly.
Kahlua shook her head. "It doesn't matter. What matters is that she needs my help."
"Does she even appreciate your efforts?" Ichigo asked.
"She does," Kahlua insisted, though her voice wavered.
"Really?" Ichigo asked, his tone skeptical. Kahlua flinched, avoiding his gaze. "Stop lying to yourself," he urged.
"Even if I wanted to leave her... what's stopping her from hunting me down?" Kahlua asked a resigned tone in her voice.
"Me," Ichigo answered confidently.
"What can you do? Not many Yōkai can defeat my mother," Kahlua said, her voice tinged with disbelief.
"Can your father defeat your mother?" Ichigo asked a spark of hope in his eyes.
Kahlua blinked. "Sure he can. That's how he won the right to marry her."
Ichigo grinned. "Good, that means I can easily defeat her."
Kahlua's eyes widened in shock. "What?!"
"Two days ago, I went to the Shuzen Estate and beat Issa to a pulp—even in his released state," Ichigo said with a confident smirk.
"Really?" Kahlua asked, her eyes narrowing in disbelief.
"You can ask Moka, Elizabeth, or Kokoa. They all saw it," Ichigo replied nonchalantly.
Kahlua mulled over this for a moment. "When I see Moka and Kokoa and they both tell me the truth, then I'll trust you," she said finally.
"That's fine," Ichigo agreed. He then turned to Suzumebachi. "How long does the venom last?" he asked.
"The venom wears off in twenty-four hours on its own, or you can use the antidote for instant recovery," Suzumebachi explained.
"Do you have the antidote ?" Ichigo asked.
"Yes, I do. It's in the thumb stingers," Suzumebachi replied.
"Thanks," Ichigo said before walking away to check on the commotion happening elsewhere.
Scene Change: Shirayuki vs Snow Priestess
Shirayuki and the Snow Priestess stood across from each other in silence for a few moments.
"Looks like I need to get involved," the Snow Priestess said as she stood up from her throne.
"Very well," Shirayuki replied, summoning her sealed form.
The Snow Priestess, her expression hardening, created ice daggers and hurled them at Shirayuki. Shirayuki advanced, effortlessly deflecting each one with her blade.
"Try this!" the Snow Priestess yelled, stomping her feet. Eight massive ice icicles shot down, surrounding Shirayuki. The Snow Priestess snapped her fingers, and the icicles morphed into mirror images of herself—Ice Dolls.
The eight Ice Dolls began charging toward Shirayuki. Dolls #1 and #2 had scythe-shaped hands, #3 and #4 wielded club-shaped hands, #5 and #6 had giant bear claw-shaped hands, and #7 and #8 sported ice cannons for hands.
Shirayuki sighed, unfazed by the challenge.
"Sode no Mai," Shirayuki commanded, and her sealed blade shifted into its Shikai form.
Doll #7 and Ice Doll #8 launched compressed, ice-shaped cannonballs at Shirayuki. With precise movements, she deflected each attack, cutting through the cannonballs with her blade. "Shirafune," she commanded, thrusting her blade forward. The weapon extended rapidly, piercing both Doll #7 and Ice Doll #8 in the chest. Without hesitation, Shirayuki snapped the extended blade to block Ice Doll #1's scythe.
Suddenly, Ice Doll #1 was struck in the head by an ice cannonball. Shirayuki turned, surprised to see Doll #7 and Ice Doll #8 firing ice cannonballs at the other Ice Dolls.
"What the...?" she thought, noticing snowflake-shaped marks covering the wounds on Doll #7's and Ice Doll #8's chests. Setting her curiosity aside, she swiftly decapitated Ice Doll #1 and Ice Doll #2.
Before she could catch her breath, an ice cannonball whizzed past her. Shirayuki dodged and looked up to see Ice Doll #7 and Ice Doll #8 battling Ice Doll #3 and Ice Doll #4. The cannonballs from Ice Doll #7 and Ice Doll #8 were expertly reflected by Ice Doll #3 and Ice Doll #4 as if the fight had turned into an intense game of baseball.
Shirayuki quickly assessed the situation. Ice Doll #3 and Ice Doll #4 were fully distracted by their opponents. Seizing the opportunity, she used shunpō to appear behind them and, with two swift strikes, cut off their heads.
Her attention shifted to Ice Doll #7 and Ice Doll #8, only to see them crushed by the ice claws of Doll #5 and Ice Doll #6.
"Juhaku!" Shirayuki cried out, stabbing her blade into the ground. The earth quaked, and long, narrow ice stalagmites, each several meters in length, erupted toward Doll #5 and Ice Doll #6. The Dolls couldn't react in time, and the ice stalagmites impaled them, ending their assault.
As silence fell over the battlefield, slow, deliberate clapping broke through the stillness. Shirayuki turned to see the Snow Priestess, her hands coming together in applause.
"Impressive," the Snow Priestess said, smiling eerily. "You're stronger than I expected. But it's time for me to move on… to a new body."
"A new body?" Shirayuki frowned.
Suddenly, the Snow Priestess screamed. Her eyes rolled back, and black tears streamed down her face. A dark sludge bubbled from her mouth, writhing unnaturally before leaping out, leaving her collapsed on the floor.
The black mass rose, twisting and reshaping into a humanoid figure with two hollow white circles for eyes.
"What are you?" Shirayuki demanded, raising her blade.
"I have no name," the being replied, its voice a guttural echo.
"What's your purpose?" Ichigo's voice cut in as he appeared beside Shirayuki in a flash of shunpō.
The being turned its hollow eyes toward him. "My purpose is to free the Yōkai. You will be my next host!"
It lunged at Shirayuki, but she remained composed. Stabbing her blade into the ground, she drew a semi-circle of punctures with precise movements. Ice particles swirled up from the ground, and her reiatsu surged.
"Hakuren!" Shirayuki called, releasing a colossal wave of freezing air. The black being was too slow to escape and was engulfed by the icy torrent.
As its form began to freeze, the being's voice echoed ominously, "You may have stopped me, but the Master will prevail. Fairy Tale's story will end happily ever after."
With those words, the creature was frozen solid, then shattered into nothingness.
Ichigo walked over to the fallen Snow Priestess, kneeling beside her and gently shaking her shoulders. "Hey, wake up."
Slowly, the woman's eyes fluttered open. "Huh? Where… where am I? Who are you?"
"I'm Kurosaki Ichigo. You're in the Snow Priestess's throne room," Ichigo explained.
"Throne room? But I've never been here before. I… I always wanted to meet the Snow Priestess," she murmured, still disoriented.
Ichigo blinked. "Uh, you are the Snow Priestess."
"WHAT?!" she exclaimed, sitting upright.
"Calm down," Ichigo said. "What do you remember before waking up?"
The woman furrowed her brow. "The last thing I recall… one of the Snow Maidens came to my house with a summons to see the Snow Priestess. After that, everything is blank."
Ichigo sighed in understanding. "What's your name?"
"Yasashī Yuki," she replied softly.
Mizore stepped forward. "Let's go back to the village. It's not safe here."
Ichigo nodded, picking up the paralyzed Kahlua with care. Shirayuki took Yasashī's and Mizore's hands, and in flashes of shunpō, they vanished.
Scene Transition: Yuki-Onna Village
As the sun rose over the Yuki-Onna Village, its residents began preparing for the Flower Offering Ceremony.
Inside Tsurara's house, she hurriedly pushed a shelf back into place, hiding a collection of guns just as someone knocked on the door. She gestured for everyone to conceal their weapons. When she opened the door, she found Ichigo carrying Kahlua, followed by Shirayuki, Mizore, and Yasashī Yuki.
"May we come in?" Ichigo asked politely.
Tsurara stepped aside, allowing them to enter. Moka and Kokoa immediately perked up.
"Nee-san!" Moka and Kokoa cried, rushing to Kahlua's side.
"Hello, Moka-chan, Kokoa-chan," Kahlua replied weakly, still paralyzed. Ichigo gently set her down on the couch.
"Snow Priestess, would you like something to drink?" Tsurara asked, trying to keep calm.
"I'm not the Snow Priestess," Yasashī corrected. "I'm Yasashī Yuki."
"Tsurara, can you get us all some water? And then I'll explain the situation." Ichigo said.
Tsurara blinked in confusion but still nodded, bringing water for everyone as Ichigo prepared to explain.
"Let's start right after Tsurara left Shirayuki and me in front of the Snow Priestess's Shrine," Ichigo began.
"That's a good place to start," Tsurara agreed.
"Anyway, when we entered the Shrine, we found Mizore on the ground. The Snow Priestess stood up and greeted all three of us. Right after that, Mizore started yelling at the Snow Priestess for interrupting her moment with Tsukune," Ichigo continued.
Kurumu, Yukari, and Ruby all turned to glare at Mizore.
"The Snow Priestess told Mizore that a relationship with Tsukune wouldn't work and claimed that she was destined to marry someone from Fairy Tale—Miyabi Fujisaki."
"Fairy Tale," everyone from the Newspaper Club growled in unison.
"I stepped in and interrupted their conversation," Ichigo said. "That's when Miyabi Fujisaki ordered Kahlua to kill Shirayuki and me. The fight split into two battles."
"I fought the Snow Priestess," Shirayuki added.
"And I faced Kahlua," Ichigo said. "During the fight, I managed to convince Kahlua to talk to the two of you about my fight with Issa."
"More like you paralyzed me and forced me to listen," Kahlua interjected with a faint pout.
"It wasn't a fight; it was a one-sided slaughter," Kokoa chimed in with a smirk, recalling Ichigo's earlier confrontation with their father, Issa Shuzen.
"Ichigo defeated Oto-sama and shattered his pride," Moka said, recalling Ichigo's fight with Issa.
"Did Oto-sama transform?" Kahlua asked.
"He did," Moka replied.
"I see," Kahlua murmured.
"Anyway, Shirayuki fought against the Snow Priestess. It turns out the Snow Priestess was under the control of another being, who was an ally of Fairy Tale. Shirayuki managed to defeat the being, which freed the Snow Priestess," Ichigo explained, gesturing to Yuki.
"Hi. I'm Yasashī Yuki," Yuki said.
"So, what are we going to do next?" Tsurara asked.
"We'll gather the adults in the village and select a new leader," Ichigo said.
"How?" Tsurara asked.
"How did you do it before?" Ichigo countered.
"The previous Snow Priestess would choose her successor," Tsurara replied.
"So that's what happened to me," Yuki said. Everyone turned to look at her. "I received a summons to see the Snow Priestess. I think that's how I became the new Snow Priestess," Yuki continued.
"So… maybe we should find the oldest resident of the village and go from there," Ichigo suggested.
"I'll see what I can do," Tsurara said. "Stay here while I talk to the village's elders." With that, Tsurara left.
Ichigo summoned Suzumebachi and injected Kahlua with the anti-venom. Kahlua, Moka, and Kokoa decided to play with Elizabeth indoors, while Mizore slipped out with Tsukune.
"I'm going to rest in the mindscape," Shirayuki said.
"Go ahead. I'm going to read this book," Ichigo replied, summoning one of his many books from the mindscape.
"THAT BI-OW!" Kurumu shouted, glaring at Yukari, who had just smacked her on the head with a wash pan.
"What was that for?" Kurumu snapped.
"You were about to swear in front of Elizabeth," Yukari said.
"Oh. We need to find Tsukune. Mizore snuck him out of the house. Who knows what those two could be up to," Kurumu said, rushing out, followed by Yukari and Ruby.
Ichigo chuckled and settled into his book.
Scene Change
Kurumu, Ruby, and Yukari found Mizore and Tsukune. Once again, Mizore and Kurumu began to argue about Tsukune, and amid the distraction, Tsukune quietly slipped away.
"Sigh," Tsukune thought as he wandered through the village. "I'm not strong enough. When Mizore was attacked by the Snow Priestess… I was powerless to stop it!" Tsukune punched the ground, sending snow flying.
"It seems someone is angry," a voice said. Tsukune turned around to see a strange man approaching him. The man's face was obscured by a mask with five eyes. He wore a round hat and a long cloak and carried a walking stick resembling a spinal column and brain.
"Who are you?" Tsukune asked.
"Who am I? It doesn't matter who I am. What matters is what I can do for you," the masked man said, stepping closer.
"I don't need your help," Tsukune replied.
"Tsu. Tsu. Tsu," the man tutted, wagging his finger. "Little children shouldn't lie to their elders… I know what you want." He stepped up to Tsukune. "You want more power."
Tsukune remembered his Berserker phase when he had sought out Yōkai to devour to grow stronger. He also remembered wanting the power to protect Moka from that monster.
"What if it's true that I want that power?" Tsukune asked. "What can you do about it?"
"Oh… very simple," the man said. He raised his finger toward his walking stick, then cut off his finger, offering the bloody digit to Tsukune. "Eat this."
Tsukune stared at the finger, sensing the immense Yōki contained within. Slowly, he reached out and took the finger.
"Should I do this?" Tsukune thought.
"Do it…" a voice said.
Tsukune looked around but saw only the masked man.
"He disappeared. I could throw this away now," Tsukune thought.
"Don't. You need this. You want it," the voice urged again.
"Where is that voice coming from?" Tsukune thought.
"Remember… you're not doing this for yourself… You're doing it for Moka…"
"Moka…" Tsukune thought as he recalled what Moka had done for him.
"You're doing this to help her. To free her from the monster."
"Freeing her from the monster," Tsukune muttered to himself, and with a deep breath, he ate the finger. A chill ran down his neck, and suddenly, Tsukune felt an overwhelming surge of power.
"Whoa," Tsukune gasped.
"How do you feel?" the masked man asked.
"I feel way stronger than before. Maybe stronger than him," Tsukune replied, glancing at the man. "Please, sir, I want more. I want to be stronger."
"Very well," the man said. "But you must do something for me first."
"What?" Tsukune asked.
The man smiled wickedly behind his mask, walking over and whispering into Tsukune's ear.
"WHAT?" Tsukune said, shocked.
"Don't worry. Once we're done, you can have her back," the man assured.
"Very well," Tsukune said, his resolve hardening. The man handed him a phone before turning to leave.
Tsukune continued wandering, lost in thought about what he had to do. Just then, he heard someone calling his name.
"Tsukune! ~~3" Kurumu shouted, leaping onto him. He barely managed to keep his balance.
"Kurumu-chan. Please, get off me," Tsukune said.
"Oh my god! He called me Kurumu-chan!" Kurumu thought, her heart fluttering. "S-sure, Tsukune," thought, jumping off his back.
"There you are," Yukari said. The two girls had regrouped.
"Hello, Yukari-chan and Ruby-chan," Tsukune greeted.
"Oh my god! He called me Yukari-chan!" Yukari thought, overwhelmed.
"Oh my god! He called me Ruby-chan!" Ruby thought, equally stunned.
"Wait… he called the others with the -chan suffix, so… what is he doing?" each of the girls wondered.
Tsukune realized his mistake just as he sensed a small spike of Yōki.
"Wait!" Tsukune said, trying to defuse the situation.
"Ladies, it's not proper to fight in front of the boy all of you want to impress," Mizore said, landing next to Tsukune.
"Mizore-chan," Tsukune said.
"Ka-san requested our presents," Mizore said, looking at the group.
"Fine," the girls muttered, crossing their arms and looking away from each other. Mizore led the group back to her house. Upon entering, they found Moka, Kokoa, Elizabeth, and Kahlua leaning on each other, sleeping soundly. Ichigo was also asleep, his book covering his face. Tsurara approached Ichigo, gently nudging him.
"Ichigo-sama, please wake up," Tsurara said. Ichigo stirred, grabbing the book and sending it back to his mindscape. He rubbed his eyes and yawned.
"Good morning," Ichigo said. Seeing him awake, Tsurara began waking the others. Once everyone was up, Tsurara gathered them in the living room. Ichigo called Shirayuki to sit beside him.
"I gathered all of the village's adults and informed them of what happened," Tsurara said. "Most of them want the current Snow Priestess to continue leading the village."
"But I can't!" Yuki yelled. "I don't even remember what I did as the Snow Priestess."
"I told them that," Tsurara replied. "We all agreed on a solution. Three of the oldest residents and three younger ones will take charge."
"How will they be selected?" Ichigo asked.
"They must all volunteer. The younger ones must wait until their children are over the age of ten," Tsurara explained.
"How long is the term?" Ichigo asked.
"The current term will last three years. After that, each term will be five years, with each leader allowed a maximum of three terms," Tsurara said.
Ichigo nodded. "Sounds fair." Everyone spent the rest of the day enjoying their last moments in the village. The Newspaper Club interviewed the residents, asking for their opinions on the Snow Priestess, Fairy Tale, and the new changes to the village.
As all good things do, their time in the village comes to an end. Mizore led the group out, with Ichigo releasing a small burst of his fire reiatsu to keep everyone warm. They hiked until they reached a frost-covered bus stop. In the distance, they saw a familiar yellow school bus approaching. It slowed and came to a stop in front of the stop, and the door opened to reveal the bus driver's familiar face.
"Looks like all of you had an excellent adventure," Nurari said.
"It was definitely interesting," Ichigo replied, stepping onto the bus.
"It'll be in the next newspaper," Moka said, boarding behind Ichigo.
"Hi, Creepy-Eye Bus Driver-san!" Elizabeth greeted as she got on, causing Ichigo and Nurari to laugh.
"Elizabeth!" Moka scolded. "You don't call the bus driver that. Now apologize!"
"Sorry, Creepy-Eye Bus Driver-san," Elizabeth said, mimicking her earlier mistake. Ichigo and Nurari laughed even harder.
Moka sighed, scooting over to make room for Elizabeth, who grinned, receiving a high-five from Ichigo.
Kokoa and Kahlua boarded and sat behind Ichigo, Moka, and Elizabeth. Finally, Tsukune and the rest of the Newspaper Club took their seats at the back. The bus started, and as it left the Yuki-Onna village, Ichigo chuckled at Kahlua's amazed gasp at the colors of the dimensional tunnel. He glanced over to see Elizabeth and Moka staring out the window. Elizabeth seemed captivated by the colors, while Moka appeared lost in thought.
"Moka, you all right?" Ichigo asked.
"I'm fine. Just a lot on my mind," Moka admitted.
Ichigo gently took her hand. "It's all right, Moka. I'll be here if you need someone to talk to."
"Thank you, Ichigo," Moka said, looking away from the window before leaning over and kissing him on the lips. As the school bus exited the dimensional tunnel, the scenery shifted. Black, dead trees and gravestones marked the approach to the school. The bus slowed and stopped at the familiar bus stop. Everyone quickly got off the bus as it drove away.
"Bye, Tsukune!" Mizore, Kurumu, and Yukari called as they headed towards the girls' dormitories.
"Hey, Moka!" Tsukune called out.
"Yes, Tsukune?" Moka turned to him.
"In about ten minutes, we're meeting in the club room to work on the articles. Can you come?" Tsukune asked.
"I'll be there," Moka said.
"Bye, Moka," Tsukune said as he walked toward the boys' dormitory.
"Moka," Ichigo said.
"Yes, Ichigo?" Moka turned to him.
"Can you let me take your bags and Elizabeth back to your room?" Ichigo asked.
"Sure, I-" Ichigo was interrupted as he sensed something flying toward him. He turned to see a bird soaring toward him. The bird slowed and landed on his right shoulder, raising its left leg. Ichigo noticed a letter tied to its leg. He carefully removed the letter and read it.
"Dear Yamamoto-Kurosaki Ichigo, Second Heir of the Noble and Most Ancient Clan of Yamamoto, this is Ozu Miyuki of the Ancient Clan of Ozu. I am writing to inform you that your order is ready. Please reply as soon as possible with your estimated time of arrival, as a special ritual is required for the staff. Sincerely, Ozu Miyuki of the Ancient Clan of Ozu and owner of Miyuki's Wands."
Ichigo thought for a moment before writing a reply and tying it to the bird's leg. "I'll be there in less than an hour." The bird flew away.
"What was that?" Moka asked.
"That was Ozu Miyuki. She needs to see me regarding my staff," Ichigo explained.
"When are you leaving?" Moka asked.
"In an hour. We need to see Mikogami about Kahlua's situation first," Ichigo reminded.
"Oh, right. Let's get that done," Moka said.
Scene Change: Mikogami's office
The group made their way to Mikogami's office. Inside, Mikogami was filling out paperwork when he heard a knock on his door. He activated a transparency spell that allowed him to see through the door. When he saw Ichigo, Moka, Kahlua, and Elizabeth standing outside, he called out, "Come in."
The door opened, and the four entered. "Hello, how can I help you?" Mikogami asked.
"Headmaster, I was wondering if you could arrange a room for my sister for a few days," Moka requested.
"Of course, she'll have the room next to yours," Mikogami replied, pulling a key from a drawer.
"Thank you," Moka and Kahlua said as Kahlua took the key.
"Anything else?" Mikogami asked.
"Nope," Ichigo replied, and the group left his office.
Ichigo, Elizabeth, and Kahlua waved goodbye to Moka as they headed back to their room. Moka walked down the corridor towards the Newspaper Club room. When she arrived, she slid the door open to find the room empty.
"I guess I'm a little early," Moka thought as she entered and shut the door behind her. Suddenly, something hit her in the back of the head, knocking her unconscious.
Author's notes:
Arturo Plateado is a character from Bleach: Shattered Blade and Bleach: The 3rd Phantom.
Ichigo's 'Vasto Lorde' form from the anime. He has two copies of Tensa Zangetsu, the version he used in the Fullbringer Arc. If you remember in chapter 8, Zangetsu ate Kokabiel's wings. According to the DXD Wiki, Kokabiel had 5 pairs of wings.
He is a tall version of Excadrill from Pokemon.
He is Chesnaught from Pokemon.
Look up Yugioh Zexal Barian Emblem.
Look up Princess Luna done by SaintPrecious. I tried my best to describe how beautiful it is even if it is from My Little Pony.
Yes, that was Morgan from Darkstalkers.